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From Gardens to the Cross...

2010-04-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

In the garden we find agony.

But it is not the first garden filled with agony. As Jesus prepared himself to take upon the cup of redemption; making reconciliation possible between man and God, as Jesus wrestled with the weight of all creation’s sin and burdened by the imperfection of all mankind placed on the most perfect being mankind had ever and would ever see, there was agony in this garden.

But Jesus, God in flesh, had seen agony in the garden before.

As He watched His perfect creation choose the lie of Satan over the promise of life, there was agony in the garden....except this garden was not Gethsemane, it was Eden.
 Truth was traded for Lie. Life traded for Death. A perfect relationship with the creator-God, traded for a relationship now removed from His very presence.

The loving gaze of the Creator had to be quickly turned to agony as He watched His creation betray Him and fall. Fall hard.

Agony in Eden was the prequel for agony in Gethsemane.

But the garden was not only a place where Jesus retreated. It was not only a place filled with burden and struggle and the weight of the responsibility He was called to live out.

The garden was a battlefield.

“When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.” - John 18:1-3

Could you imagine the scene? A band of soldiers, potentially up to 1000 in number, pursuing the arrest of Jesus. There they were, complete with swords, lanterns, and torches. Ever wonder where Mary Shelley got the idea for the townsfolk descending on the castle in pursuit of the Frankenstein monster? Perhaps this is it.
 
Here was a mere teacher, with his disciples, being pursued by the religious officials and a whole accompaniment of armed soldiers. They were not serving a warrant. They came for BATTLE.
 The garden was a battlefield.

“Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him,
went out and asked them,"Who is it you want?"
"Jesus of Nazareth," they replied.
"I am he," Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, "I am he," they drew back and fell to the ground.
Again he asked them, "Who is it you want?"
And they said, "Jesus of Nazareth."
"I told you that I am he," Jesus answered. "If you are looking for me, then let these men go." This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: "I have not lost one of those you gave me."
Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.)
Jesus commanded Peter, "Put your sword away!
Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?"
- John 18:4-11

From the soldiers falling back in fear and in response to the name of Jesus to Simon Peter taking his first swipe of aggression to one trying to arrest his leader, this was not the friendly confines of Gethsemane, it was a garden of betrayal, a garden of anxiety, a garden of uneasiness as to what was about to happen; a garden of battle.

But it was not the first garden of battle. A battle had already happened in a garden. Death had already replaced Life in a garden. A loving father had already been betrayed by His creation in a garden. A garden battle had already happened. From Eden to Gethsemane, these gardens were not foreign to agony - but they were also not foreign to battle.

But the battles were different.

In Eden, there was a battle. Because of the fall of mankind and the consequence of this evil, the battle became God against humanity because of sin. There would now be a barrier between God and His creation because of sin. The Battle of Eden was God versus humanity because of sin.

But Gethsemane was different. The cup Jesus was taking up was not a cup of war against man any longer, but a war against sin. This is where the Battle of Eden set the stage for the Battle of Gethsemane, but it was now a different battle.

This battle, this cup, was no longer God versus humanity because of sin, it was GOD versus SIN because of HUMANITY.

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." - Mark 10:45

“God made Him who knew no sin to be sin so that we might
become the righteousness of God in Him.” -2 Corinthians 5:21

There may have been a battle started in Eden, but the war ended not at Gethsemane but at the Cross - and Gethsemane framed this final, victorious trek into battle, a battle that would not be only for His glory, but for the Hope of all humanity. That sin would forever be defeated....darkness forever made light....hell traded for heaven....and death for LIFE.

What started in one garden would be reconciled out of another.

 Gethsemane; full of agony, burden, patience and suffering - but also where the battle is welcomed into the scene.   

But that was Thursday. Today is Friday. And Friday is good.....because today, today is the day that the battle’s final shot is fired, and as the final war cry echoes in our hearts, “IT IS FINISHED” And now we await Sunday....when a new Life in the Resurrection begins.

 The battle for our souls finds its beginning in a garden, its end in a garden, and its placement on a cross....the center of our faith and the center of this day, Good Friday.

Who Do You Say That I Am?

2009-12-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

About three months ago, Pastor Jamie Ward at our "Godstock" event held each fall delivered a very powerful sermon, posing the question - "Yes...but who did you say that I am?"

Obviously, Jamie was not talking about himself - but relaying a question the Christ asked Peter in Matthew 16:13-16(NIV)

¹³When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" ¹⁴They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." ¹⁵"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" ¹⁶Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

But what does that mean? Jesus - dare we ask you the same question? Jesus - who do you say that YOU are?

It's funny really, because before we knew to ask the question - He answered it. Christmas is right around the corner, and if you ever want to catch up on your reading of the Christmas story, most turn to Luke 2. But if you are like me and read on ahead a little you find out something pretty cool in Luke 4. Jesus, back in the town of His upbringing entered the Temple, and when He did He dropped something on all of us; His mission statement. His purpose. The very thing He says that He is....

Here, read for yourself....Luke 4:16-21 (ESV)

¹⁶ And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. ¹⁷And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written,
¹⁸ "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives
and recovering of sight to the blind,
to set at liberty those who are oppressed,
¹⁹ to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."

²⁰And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. ²¹And he began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing."

Over the next few weeks we'll break this verse down and discuss how we proclaim the good news, set the captives free, bring sight to the blind, and liberate the oppressed. Let's make it a five part blog entry - shall we?

But before we get to the application of this verse we have to look at the beginning....and too many times we overlook it, or at least I do.

Jesus was anointed. He was set apart to accomplish the will of the Father. Other uses for the word "anointing" throughout the Hebrew texts find that it can also stand for "to be accepted". To be accepted is to be welcomed - and God welcomed the world to Salvation made possible only through the work of His son, Jesus Christ. His anointing was not to be King over Israel, but King over creation, King of all Kings.

Likewise, we too are anointed. Being found in Christ, we know that we now share in His mission, we too need to claim that verse found in Isaiah 61 to be our mission statement. But if you are like me, you rush to find ways to formulate how to proclaim the Gospel most effectively, how to present freedom to people in bondage and captivity, and how to try to pry the eyes open of those that do not (or do not want to) see. And you miss the fact that you are anointed.

You are.

Probably the biggest fight I have on my hands is a fight against a spirit of pride or arrogance. And it makes me feel all itchy to say that to myself.

Andrew, you are anointed. Yikes.

When I say that to myself it's like the enemy hits play on the highlight film in my head and says "oh...so that was anointed Andrew?" as he points out the shortcomings, the flaws, the failures, and the mistakes I've made. But then...in an ever so soft, but affirming voice, I hear this...

"Andrew - feel your hair."

And it's dripping with oil. Sweet-smelling, fragrant oil. Because as Satan points out my past - Christ pours onto my present, the anointing of Himself. That as I figuratively run my fingers through my oil-drenched hair I realize...I am anointed.

And so are you. But you are stressed out. You are worn thin. You are tired. You have "junk". You have doubts. You get confused.

Yes....yet you are still anointed.

And that matters because it doesn't make sense. Because we don't deserve it. Because sometimes we don't feel or act or respond like someone who is anointed. Yet we are still anointed...anointed to proclaim, to set freedom, to open eyes, and to liberate, and sometimes the very person that needs to hear the story of our anointing is ourselves. I am anointed. I am a member of the Gospel. I was enslaved and now set free. I was blind and now I see. I was oppressed and now I am liberated. I am anointed....because Christ poured out Himself as an offering, and my head received that offering...and feel it or not, act it or not...I, and you, are anointed.

If it was important that Jesus recognized his anointing, then it matters for us as well.
The mission of Jesus is easy to get on board with. Sure, I want to see the gospel proclaimed, freedom maintained and vision obtained. But it's sometimes easy for me to get so wrapped up with "doing" all the activity of a Christ follower, that I forget what it is "be" the very mission of the Lord I love.

Lord thank you for anointing me - completely at the work of YOUR hands. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for forgiving me.

And thank you for oily hair.

Why I Love Randall Cobb....

2009-11-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

This story is a repost originally by Darrell Bird. You can find more of Darrell's writings on his blog at http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=888&CID=1014625

Here is the story....

ATHENS, Ga. -- Every Kentucky football fan knew that Randall Cobb might not play against Georgia because of a bruised shoulder. But everybody who knows Cobb also knows he wasn't about to miss out on UK's stunning 34-27 upset in Athens.

What you don't know is just how difficult it was for Cobb, who disguised it quite nicely behind his two touchdown runs.

"I was in a lot of pain for most of the game," Cobb admitted in a tiny room outside UK's raucous locker room beneath Sanford Stadium late Saturday night.

"I got over 30 hours of treatment this week and then I just put my faith in God to help me get through it and to where I am right now," he said. "I'm going to get another treat on the way home tonight."

The pain, however, miraculously vanished during the heroic comeback to win during which Kentucky erased a 20-6 halftime deficit.

"I was going off emotion at the end, feeling no pain," Cobb said. "Just going over to the stands to see our crowd that made the trip down here. Those folks are crazy."

Competition drove Cobb.

"As the game goes on, I get hungrier. I want the ball in my hands to see if I can do something for my team," he said. "Any true competitor wants the ball to make plays the longer the game goes on."

The victory, UK's first in Athens since 1977, was huge for the dozen or so Kentucky players who hail from the Peach State. This week, Cobb says it's his turn as the Cats take on Tennessee.

"We've already talked about that in the locker room," the Alcoa, Tenn., native said. "That was a big win for those guys being from the state of Georgia and I'd like to know that feeling.

"It's going to be a very emotional game for me because it's going to be my first game against Tennessee in front of my home crowd," Cobb said. "I love my home crowd and it's against my hometown team."

Bojangles has arrived

2009-11-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

Yes that is correct, the new addition is here. For now....these are the pics.

I am sure more Bo updates and pictures will come here and there....enjoy

Tidbit 1

2009-10-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

I feel like starting an entry called "Tidbits". Here is part one. These will be random at all times, and sometimes spiritual, insightful, dumb, funny, ridiculous, or just plain lame. haha. Enjoy!

__________________

So I am researching the topic of predestination for a paper in my Church History class at seminary. This topic is a broad as it is long, but we have narrowed the scope a bit in what we are researching. (For those that care - we are discussing the biblical implications/relevance of Augustine's vs. Cassian's view of predestination of the faithful believers)

Here is a tidbit that jumped off the page....

Augustine (on the Father drawing believers to Christ...):

"[And so we teach] as, therefore, we speak justly when we say concerning any teacher of literature who is alone in a city, He(the teacher) teaches literature here to everybody,—not that all men learn, but that there is none who learns literature there who does not learn from him,—so we justly say, God teaches all men to come to Christ, not because all come, but because none comes in any other way."

How about that? And to think...this is not new knowledge, Augustine penned this in 428 A.D.....

thoughts?

The Sufficiency of Grace

2009-10-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

Grace. Mystery.

Never have two words seemed so eerily connected. There is something so uncanny about the grace of God. If you are anything like me, then you have heard probably no short of 100 different analogies, similies, or quotes....here are a few.

"Grace is what God gives us when we don't deserve anything...mercy is when God doesn't give us what we do deserve"

"Rain is grace; rain is the sky condescending to the earth; without rain, there would be no life"

"I do not understand the mystery of grace - only that it meets us where we are, but does not leave us where it found us"

"Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me....."

I could go on and on.....and on and on. (oh...and I haven't even quoted the Bible......yet)

As a senior in high school I attached this verse to my illustrious high school career as my senior quote. I have heard this verse my whole life, it's one of the few I have had memorized since my young days....

"But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me" - 2 Corinthians 12:9

I was pretty sure I knew what this verse meant. I had it all down. God's grace is enough for you to get by when you don't feel like gettin' by. Done. Check. Duh.

right?

I think I could say with certainty, that if you needed that application from this verse for a season or situation in your life, then it is more than attainable. But for my arrogant, puny, and feeble mind to think that I "get it" because it's so "easy to understand" is quite pathetic; in reality, it truly shortchanges what God's grace desires to accomplish in all of our lives. Not until recently have I adapted a new insight to this timeless verse.

First of all, it is important to look at the motivation in this verse. In writing to the church in Corinth, Paul has a bit of a "me" moment. In this case, Paul reminds me of...well...me. I believe I have developed a reputation for being a conversation hijacker. If you are really close to me, and have spent intentional time with me in conversation, then you know this to be true....any conversation we engage in could literally cover ANY topic imaginable. I love great conversation...but I feel as if I do not stay on point all the time. Perhaps it's a tragic flaw. I have a fidgety personality - I suppose my fidgety discussions follow suit. However, when I get to the heart of conversation, if I want to use an example, a metaphor, a story to help contribute to the topic...I tell one on myself. I know those the best. Sometimes they are embarrassing, sometimes prideful, sometimes very vulnerable; nevertheless, they are sincere...because they demand the transparency of myself, even if only a little bit.

enter Paul.

He, for a moment, becomes transparent to this church in his letter. And his transparency, is then forever used by God to speak to all of humanity.

Paul, in trying to talk about not being prideful, goes on to say he has struggles, too. He has things in his life he pleads to get rid of. He has issues.....despite of what everyone thinks about him, his missionary journeys, his wisdom, and his great works for the kingdom of God. He isn't as strong as he is made out to be....not as victorious as he is championed. And when he has a desire to boast...he is reminded of these things. But he realizes this....God never asked him to be strong. He never asked him to be perfect. He never asked him to be flawless. And Paul, pens these powerful words...

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

For fear of sounding cliche....this is a gentle reminder of the beauty of simplicity. That God, in His unbelievable wisdom, His power, His strength, His supplication, His.....everything....asks us to let HIM be exactly who He is, through exactly who we are.

And we....we are flawed, affected by sin, submitted to a curse that we did not ask for. We are inadequate - as if it were our profession. We think ourselves so far around situations that we fall short of accomplishing them. We try.... oh so hard, we pick ourselves up....oh so many times, and we find ourselves stuck in the same ruts....oh too often.

Did I say "we"....I meant "me". Maybe you can sympathize.

And it's this very feeling of inadequacy, of insecurity, of weakness, of not humility - but inability that God speaks directly to.

"My grace is sufficient for you, [Andrew]. For my power is made perfect in [your] weakness"

But you may be reading this and saying, "Andrew, I know you. You are a pretty good guy. You are a good youth pastor. I think you are being too hard on yourself".

(please note I am not referencing this thought to fuel any pride I may have...but to make a point)

It is my desire that you do get to see great things come out of my life. It is my hope, my prayer, my mission and goal that my life be a reflection of who God is and that I may be used of a servant, constantly aware of how to make others more exalted than myself....

But you need to know this.....

I didn't get there on my own.

And if you see anything....I mean ANYTHING that resembles me being good, full of character or integrity, uplifting...ANYTHING. It's a picture of the handiwork of grace.

And that is the picture that Paul is trying to paint. We can go through and look at all the great teachings, stories, testimonies of obedience lived out in Paul's life....and even brag on good ole' Paul a bit.

But in taking inventory of himself....

Paul says. I am weak. I am poor. I have struggles.

and if you see things in my life that even resemble anything of God - it's ONLY by the SUFFICIENCY of HIS awesome grace.

How is grace sufficient? That I may live a life perfectly embracing of my weakness, so that He may live a life of power and strength through me. And when that happens - perfection. Not in who I am, or what I have accomplished....no. In who HE is, and what HE is accomplish-ING.

We have to almost re-engineer our thought process:

God doesn't ask us to be strong. He asks us to be weak - so that He can be strong.
He doesn't ask us to be able. He demands that we admit we are unable - so that He can be able.
He doesn't ask that we make ourselves holy. He requires us to realize our unholiness - so that we may get a glimpse of His holiness.
He doesn't ask that we excel, achieve, or win. He asks us to understand we can't - so that He can accomplish victory through us.

He doesn't ask us to be perfect or adequate.
He shows us our imperfection.
He shows us our constant need for something to make us adequate.
He shows us we haven't earned our right at the table.

But He invites us anyway. He makes adequate our inadequacy. He perfects our imperfection.

He becomes SUFFICIENT in not just some, but ALL the ways we are insufficient.

And this, this is a picture of a perfect union.

This....is grace.

That I, in my brokenness, in my inability, in my uselessness, am loved so much - pursued so powerfully - equipped so undeservingly that you - you may get a glimpse of who God is...through who I am not. And when that happens, or if that happens...how can I take credit for it? Because all that I have done is make myself inadequately available, insufficiently useful - so that the perfection and sufficiency of who GOD is can come through - as strength - in me.

Grace. Mysterious? Maybe. Inspiring? Definitely.

To conclude, I want to use Eugene Peterson's Message version of the remainder of 2 Corinthians 12:9,10.

"Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become."

Blessings.

andrew

What Wins?

2009-07-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

"Once the Bible is less than God's Word Jesus becomes less than God, and sinners become less than sinful." - Mark Driscoll via Twitter

A couple weeks ago, Shane started this thought in my head....then Sunday, Jeff preached on this very topic - and so it has to be discussed.

What wins?

Notice - I am not talking about a sporting event, or a friendly game of kickball - I am talking about when decisions, choices, and crossroads occur....what wins?

Does God's truth win out in your life....or....do your wants win?

Jeff told the story of one of his favorite professors, Dr. Russell Moore, and how Dr. Moore had stated that the question of whether truth wins out in our lives is not answered by how much Bible we know - but by what wins when our wants conflict with is truth.

Meaning (thanks Jeff for wording these better on Sunday...)....

When it comes to your dating life or marriage - what wins? Your wants, or what God's idea of those relationships should look like? Let's be honest - they don't always match up.

How about finances....do you obey and trust His word - or do you handle your wants first? What wins?

With life...when a doctor could tell you an abortion is ok because the baby is going to have health issues - what wins? God's idea of life - or what you "want" in a family?

In your relationships - what wins? Are you all about using people, family, etc to satisfy your wants/needs - or do you live by the standard that says you are to serve others....even your purest enemies. What wins?

For every single person that can possibly read this....I can be sure of this one thing. There is AT LEAST one area in your life that you are battling what is easy, comfortable, enjoyable, you want - that probably conflicts with God's idea for your life...and conflicts with His truth.

I'm not telling you what to do....I'm just asking you. What wins?

You say you want to be about truth? Well, how bad do you want to be about it? Bad enough to show the world (and yourself) that when it comes to living in truth - Jesus wins....even over what I want. I dare you to take that challenge.

Let Him win this week.....

Really?

2009-06-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

Has it REALLLLLLY been February since my last update?

Wow...if you are looking for said "directions" (ahem...see blog title if you are slow haha) then I hope you didn't look in the months of March-May. Wow. I apologize....and also assume all found there way. (aside - quite frankly if they were trusting me they would be lost anyway....yes...all three of you that read this)

Anywho....I vow to be more on top of things...and I have a lot to "vomit" onto here about my current whereabouts these days and some crazy turns of events. Should be fun....but let's wait til my thoughts are more organized, shall we?

I'll be getting back to ya....

A

My Top 10 Moments in Music

2009-02-13T11:23:00.000-08:00

This list just happened out of thin air. Drew and I were just discussing incredible music and it prompted me to think of my all time favorites (in the form of a top 10 and some honorable mentions) moments in music history.

First I will start with the Honorable Mentions:
- The first HM is sharing the song "Should Have Been a Cowboy" by Toby Keith with Troy Woodyard. Not only have we played this song together for fun, but when we hear it on the radio, we call and leave it as a voicemail. It's fun!

- Second HM; During the miraculous UK - Arkansas football game from this past 2008 season, where UK came from behind to win in the last four minutes....Kate and I shared a spirited song and dance to (believe it or not) the UK Marching Band's timely rendition of "Hey Baby". Now forever making me smile when the song plays, and also thinking of Kate!

- Third and final HM; also related to UK Sports....post tornado and post the ridiculous loss to Georgia at the Georgia Tech campus at the 2008 SEC Tournament, the group in the car was a little down in the dumps. Miles began with the first line from "Build Me Up, Buttercup" and the rest of the car began with the echo ('Build me up'). Before long the whole car was singing it acapella as we ventured through Atlanta. Simply amazing! A special hats off to Ryan, Jay, Matt, Miles....and I suppose myself.

Now onto the list.....

10. "Bubbly" I would have never thought that Colbie Caillat would have cracked my Top 10, but indeed she has. Not too long ago, Brandon Hall, Robbie Gray, and myself performed somewhat impromptu at Common Grounds Coffee House at their Monday open-mic night. We wanted to end with a tongue in cheek "bang" but have some fun...so what better to cover than "Bubbly"? Not only was it a blast to play, but the crowd, which was once consumed with coffee and conversation, gave us their full attention and ultimately their voices as they sang along. It was awesome. Their may be a video floating around facebook of it if you can find it ; ).

9. "Vultures" by John Mayer Trio, live in Nashville. In the fall of 2005 I witnessed my first Mayer show at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN as he played with just two other amazing muscians in forming the John Mayer Trio. It was a night full of blues and rock and blew my mind...starting my fandom of JM. Vultures was the highlight of my night, and something I will always remember, no matter how many times I see him live, which if we are keeping count is now at 5. John, you had me from "hello".

8. "This is it" by Kenny Loggins. Every single high school golf match had it's traditions; we warmed up with putting, we heeded the pre-round meeting from our coach, but more than anything, the members of the 2002 ACHS Golf Team sang as loud as we could to this Kenny Loggins hit. Rooted in classic 80's style this record now holds a special, special place in the hearts of each member of that golf team. "STAND UP AND FIGHT....THIS IS IT!"

7. "Strawberry Fields Forever" & "Imagine" by the Beatles/John Lennon. This past April I had the privilege of traveling to New York City as an adult chaperon with Anderson County High School and my sister, Laura's, senior class for their year-end trip. The first ipod moment on the countdown, this little ditty happened while standing over the Imagine memorial in Central Park. It just felt surreal to be there and be alive inside the music in my head, and the music that was his life. Neato.

6. "How Great Thou Art" - Christy Nockels/Matt Redman at Passion 06. After the final conference session of the night, all the attendees of Passion 06 were invited to attend one of many late night events. In the home of the Grand Ole Opry, and a former church, The Ryman Auditorium, it was an incredible night of worship capped off by singing this song of worship and praise.

5. "Everything In It's Right Place" by Radiohead, live in Indianapolis. Widely known as one of the best and most inspirational bands in music history, Radiohead puts on quite a show. Attending with Drew, Joe, RJ, and my boy Mike, we were wowed by a musical performance of the ages. Even though I sat in the grass I was blown away by the feel, movement, and momentum of the music. It was so intense it felt like a workout. I could have probably chosen any song, but this was the one for me....one of my faves, plus the light show was crazy good.

4. "The Music of the Night" by Phantom of the Opera, live on Broadway NYC (April 2003/April 2008). This is the only song on the list that I have had the chance to experience in the same way twice. Little known fact about Andrew: he loves musicals, especially the Phantom. I believe I have seen the Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber four times, but the two times on Broadway were especially memorable. The first time I set by my gal Elizabeth Ingram, and the second time, and on the seventh row (wow), I was blessed to share the song with my sister. This is my favorite song from the musical, so this moment took the cake. Hearing it so close gave me goose bumbs both times!

3. "Worship in Espanol". I'm going to credit this song to Julian Mejia. If you don't know about Julian, I suggest you click the link or read my older post from November 2007. Sadly I do not know the title of the songs that played over my cd player, but with Julian riding shotgun on our way to a worksite in New Orleans we jammed to spanish praise and worship. Meredyth, Laura, and I listened as Julian sang, and sang proudly. We switched to an English cd a bit later and her heard us sing. He told us, in Spanish, that our worship, while he couldn't understand the words, smelled as if it were a "fragrant flower". I love this man with all my heart, and for this small moment in my life, it was awesome to share a moment of worship with this Saint in NOLA.

2. "Covered in Rain" by John Mayer. Surprisingly, JM only made it on my list twice, and this one is by far the best moment. You may not be familiar with this song since it has never been recorded in the studio by John. At a recent concert, Mayer told the story behind the song. Shortly following the events of September 11th, the Mayer tour bus was scheduled to roll into NYC. This event had been scheduled far before the catastrophic events that had taken place. In an effort to propose a tribute to the city, Mayer took a bridge from his hit "City Love" that says...."the day she called up and came to me, covered in rain...." and formed it into a sequel to the song...about how the characters in "City Love" (a man and a woman) lived in reaction to the tragic events of 9/11. That is a pretty cool idea in and of itself. What makes this song special to me, is that it was roaring through the ipod as I stood at the Eleven Tears Memorial at Ground Zero. It was a very gripping moment for me that followed up an emotional story that had just told by our tour guide. I stood there, watching the water drip, and listening to this song, I, for a moment, did not feel like a tourist....I felt like an American, not one dripping with patriotism, but one wrapped up in the burden, the struggles, and the hopes of my fellow citizens. It was a heavy and profound moment; and music just happened to be involved.

and finally....

1. "Amazing Grace" by the attendees of Passion 05. As a Sophomore in college this was one of my first conference events that I felt like I participated in, not really attended to learn something or be motivated. For it's first conference since the mid 90's, the Passion group put on a week long conference event as opposed to a concert/message event. Over 15,000 college students descended upon Nashville, TN to ring in the New Year with Louie and the boys of Passion (Dave Crowder, Chris Tomlin, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman, etc). On the next to last session together, the David Crowder Band was leading the group in worship. Worship was awesome in and of itself, but what happened next is the most overwhelmed I have ever been by the Spirit of my Lord. DCB led us in "Come Thou Fount" leading into Louie's teaching time. As the band ended, they tagged "Amazing Grace" and were going to let the chorus ring out as Louie transitioned on the stage. However, we, the crowd, were not finished. As Louie walked out for his turn, we were firing up for the second verse. He stood there dumbfounded, in front of this mass of thousands, screaming at the top of their lungs this heralded anthem of our faith. The was no music, no sing along track, no words on the screens; just us, as a mass of 15,000, crying out in worship. Louie walked back off the stage and let the crowd participate in it's worship as it finished out the entire song. The moment was absolutely breathtaking...and a small glimpse of what I can envision in Heaven. When it came to my number 1, it was a no brainer....it was this.

So there you have it...the current journey through my musical Top 10 moments. Please, feel free to make a list of your own...I would love to read about your moments. If I left any moments off, I'll edit them in a later post.

Question #1

2008-10-27T12:01:00.001-07:00

Alright, alright...it's time to tackle one of the questions. Here we go...

"Why do we always want what we can't have?"

This is a fun question to start with. I don't think my answer or any possible answer will necessarily conjure up a huge theological discussion, but hey...you never know. As always your thoughts and comments are more than welcome! So, without further adieu...let's have at it.

In looking at these questions, I think it is important that we determine the heart in which the question is asked, and deal with it accordingly.

To me, this question is speaking directly toward feelings that we may have in our heart. Feelings of greed, feelings of jealousy, and the like.

This question has probably been asked for thousands of years; just think, even the first couple dealt with this issue...wanting what they were told not to partake of...and they were consequently dealt a punishment for their actions. A punishment that we, and all of creation, are still paying today; namely, absent from the perfect state in which creation was made.

Therefore, we need to determine WHAT made Adam and Eve desire that fruit in the garden. The answer: Their lust for more. But wait...this wasn't about sex. I know that...and lust isn't always about sex either. Lust is the belief that something BETTER than our current situation is available to us and should be pursued by us.

The lie of lust tells us that the desire for MORE outweighs the cost and risk....and it promises us something that we feel like we don't already have. And sometimes, it's even about sex.

You can lust for power. You can lust for love. You can lust for acceptance. You can lust for money. You can lust for lots of things...and ultimately the lie of lust hits us square in our independent and jealous hearts. How's that? Meaning, that lust would tell us that WE, as individuals, know more of what we need and want than God does for us. And WE have a RESPONSIBILITY to pursue that and capture what God has been keeping from us. WE DESERVE MORE! That is the heartbeat of lust, and it speaks directly to the jealousy and anger in our hearts.

Jealousy and anger?? Toward who...jealous about what?

Wait...we aren't jealous are we? Are we? Are you? Have you ever wanted what someone else has? Their possessions, background, status, spouse, kids, opportunity, etc?

Have you ever felt inadequate by comparison to them?

Have you ever celebrated a bit when someone who had more/better than you failed?

If so, then you are jealous. You are. The only thing that makes a jealous heart feel any better is by seeing someone else fail. But it doesn't last. And really, it only PROVES the fact that you are indeed jealous. If you have ever snickered when someone got a fender bender in their new car, got reprimanded at their incredible job, had a fight in their unbelievable relationship, or looked a little worse this year at the beach than last year - then YOU ARE JEALOUS!

You may say, I'm not jealous. I only want what is fair. But you don't want what is fair...you really just want MORE. If everyone was fair then everyone would be incredibly average. The things in which you excel would be only normal. Fair doesn't help your jealously. Only more does.

Unless we realize the heart of our jealousy is really something else. It's really anger. Anger? Yep...anger.

If I were to tell you and someone else that I was giving away a new car, and gave the car to the other person, while giving you a matchbox Hot Wheels car, then, you would be upset.

You would say...

"It isn't FAIR that they got the car and I didn't. "
"What did I do to deserve the toy car?"
"Why did THEY get picked"

But you wouldn't be mad at them. They just got a car. Who would you be mad at? You would be mad at ME! Because it was ME that gave away the car at my discretion and I chose to give it to them. They didn't deserve it more. I just gave it to them because I wanted to.

Your anger would be directed at ME if you had a problem with anyone, because it was ME that seemingly ignored you with my gift. Right?

So when we are jealous of what others have, is our anger really at them or someone bigger than them? I believe our anger is directed at God.

I think we feel that God OWES us. That He has dropped the ball when it came to blessing us. We get mad at Him because He obviously ignored our requests, our desires, our needs, etc. We feel like He has picked others over us...and we are angry about it.

But we rarely admit that. Not sure why, if we really feel that way - He already knows...and we are still alive to read this. But maybe, maybe this unspoken and perhaps unnoticed anger or disappointment in God is a good place for you to start.

What? You want me to tell God I'm mad at Him? That I feel ignored and left out?

Yep - I sure do! And I want you to get out any and every frustration you may have with Him. Guess what...He can take it. And if He hasn't hit you with lightning yet, He probably won't for this admittance either.

Well what does this accomplish?

The admittance to being angry with God, feeling left out, ignored, marginalized, or punished by Him really gives Him a big opportunity. It becomes His turn to talk.

And what will He say?

Something like this....(A paraphrase of numerous scriptures/truths concerning God's heartbeat for His children....as imagined by me)

You weren't ignored by me. I LOVE you. I love you so much that I withstood all the pain and suffering and disgrace imaginable so that I could once again, for now and eternity have a way to CONNECT with you! You were not left out by me....I fearfully and wonderfully MADE you to be exactly the person that you are, and I want you to TRUST me with what is best for your future. After all, who knows your abilities and talents better than I....don't you think I may have placed those within you for the story that is still unfolding out of your life? You may think I could have done things better and blessed you more, but the biggest blessing in your life is really ME anyway. If I get to hold you and embrace you even while you are crying, that is so very special for me. I have given you all you need to make it...because I have given you myself! And I did all that because I believe in the power of ME living in YOU. Thanks for letting me say this!

(Maybe, in looking at the truth of scripture, it would sound a little like that.)

Still angry at that God?

Give Him more opportunity to talk....it's a great conversation!

Why do we want what we can't have? Because we believe that lie that it will bring MORE to our lives, when in reality, we have all we could possibly want, hope for, and dream of already within our grasp. Thanks be to God for being the biggest dreamer and provider for us imaginable. And even when I want MORE....I am thankful to have all that I could possibly want!

Blessings,
Andrew

**Some content concerning jealously/anger was pulled from Andy Stanley's book/sermon series "It Came From Within" concerning issues of our hearts.**

Excited About This New Read

2008-10-20T11:08:00.000-07:00

So, I rarely get this excited about reading a book, but just from reading the back of Rob Bell's new book, "Jesus Wants to Save Christians", I have to admit I am a little jazzed.

As many of you know, I am a Rob Bell fan, but his author-ship is not what excites me about this book...and for all I know, I could be disappointed once the reading starts....I guess we'll find out.

Here is the summary from the back of the book.

"There is a church in our area that recently added an addition to their building which cost more than $20 million. Our local newspaper ran a front-page story not too long ago revealing that one in five people in our city lives in poverty.

This book is about those two numbers.

It's a book about faith and fear, wealth and war, poverty, power, safety, terror, Bibles, bombs, and homeland insecurity; it's about empty empires and the truth that everybody's a priest; it's about oppression, occupation, and what happens when Christians support, animate, and participate in the very things Jesus came to set people free from.

It's about what it means to be a part of the church of Jesus in a world where some people fly planes into buildings while others pick up groceries in Hummers."

Wow. That really resonates with me. Should be interesting....I'll keep ya updated. ; )

Questions Aplenty

2008-10-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks, the students at Hope have berated the student team and me with a ton of difficult life questions.

We were unable to get to all of those, so, for the next few weeks, I will be attempting to unpack them on here. Some have a quick, biblical response....others will be more of mine (and hopefully your) opinions. So, I will notate those opinion questions. I realize, as humbly as I can, that I am not always right and/or true. So...if we can provide scripture to the matter...let's let it win out!

Here is a peek into some of these questions. (in reading these questions, if you would like to submit some anonymously, then do so in the comment section!)

- Why do we always want what we can't have?

- What do you say to someone who says they are a Christian, but Church is not really important to them?

- Why do we see people suffer, even if they don't deserve it?

- Were dinosaurs real?

-How do you know when you love someone?

- Why does God say He is in control, but bad things still happen?

- Will you recognize people when you get to heaven?

- What sin(s) leads to death, and why?

- Why is Israel God's chosen people?

- How do you argue the "Big Bang Theory" to a very smart science teacher?

- How do you know what the right religion is? Why are there so many?

- Why can we feel God, but can't always see God?

- How do you know you have found the right person God has planned for you?

- What is love?

He is like a mounty...he always gets his man...

2008-09-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

Wow.

Please Watch.

an end to the awkward conversation

2008-08-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

I am a fairly outgoing and independent individual, however; there is one thing that absolutely drives me crazy. As Drew, Meredyth, and I discussed last night, one of the most awkward things in the world is the "catch up" conversation. You know what I am talking about....the conversation that goes like this...

You run into a friend that you have not seen in years....

Friend: What's going on?

You: (chuckle) Oh, you know...not much....(awkward)

Friend: Yeah, same here.

and there you have it.

In thinking about this, I have determined that the awkwardness lies much more with me than with the friend. The problem is I never know what to say, and if I do, I fear that the friend will not find it interesting.

For example, I coach golf at Anderson County High School. I take a lot of pride in what that handful of high schoolers do on a daily basis. I practically love them and consider them a family, at least for three solid months. But how many 'long, lost friends' would find my golf stories intriguing and exciting....I doubt that many would. Therefore, the awkwardness.

And that is why it needs to end.

I am going to try to put an end to the awkward conversation and always have an up to date answer on my life, but in order to do so, I have to be clued into exactly what I am doing! haha. Many times I cannot even keep up with myself.

Using today as the week starter, I am going to be visiting a morning wi-fi spot, blogging, drinking coffee, and catching myself up on me, on what the Lord is doing in me, and where he is leading me. I need a little discipline in my life. So a few days a week - it's going to happen!

I hope this blog reflects that....here's to hoping...and here's to once and for all ending the awkwardness!

A New Song You Need To Hear

2008-06-22T19:52:00.000-07:00

I have a lot on my mind tonight....good things, one of which was the incredible night of worship with the Stewart Home Students. Wow....what an amazing group of individuals.

But anywho...here is a song you need to hear. My good ole buddy drew really turned me onto it. It's a song called "Love Is Strong" by Jon Foreman of the band Switchfoot. It is available on his acoustic solo work named "Spring" on itunes. Also, I will include a video clip for all who want to see. (if you are reading this on facebook you have to visit my actual blog site to see the clip.)

Here are the lyrics....

Heavenly Father
You always amaze me
Let your kingdom come
In my world and in my life
You give me the food I need
To live through the day
And forgive me as I forgive
The people that wronged me
Lead me far from temptation
Deliver me from the evil one

I look out the window
The birds are composing
Not a note is out of tune
Or out of place
I look at the meadow
And stare at the flowers
Better dressed than any girl
On her wedding day

So why do I worry?
Why do I freak out?
God knows what I need
You know what I need

Your love is
Your love is
Your love is strong

The kingdom of the heavens
Is now advancing
Invade my heart
Invade this broken town
The kingdom of the heavens
Is buried treasure
Will you sell yourself
To buy the one you've found?

Two things you told me
That you are strong
And you love me
Yes, you love me

Our God in heaven
Hallowed be
Thy name above all names
Your kingdom come
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven
Give us today our daily bread
Forgive us wicked sinners
Lead us far away from our vices
And deliver us from these prisons

and here is the video clip. enjoy!

A Little Lesson on Heaven

2008-04-28T12:21:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I had the amazing blessing of taking some of our students and leadership at Hope to the Stewart Home in Frankfort. From their website the Stewart Home is, "a beautiful loving environment for intellectually disabled people of all ages. We offer education, vocational training and placement, an incredible variety of recreational activities and a wide choice of friends from all across the country and the world."

If you would like to know more about them visit their website.

If you have never worked with special needs individuals, then you absolutely should! It is such an amazing blessing and actually teaches you quite a lot. It can be a little uncomfortable at times, but if you push through it you can really see the sincerity and love shining very brightly. As soon as I got there I was introduced to a man named Jeff, and wow, did he ever teach me a thing or two.

Jeff is a very friendly individual. He is oozing with personality and is very extroverted. As soon as we met he asked me if I worked there. Then he asked me if I was going to be here for "parent's weekend".

Remember when you were little and you counted down from December 26th to the next Christmas. I swear, toy companies need to make kid calendars that start on December 26th...just so Christmas is always on the horizon. That is exactly how Jeff was, except not for Christmas, but for "parent's weekend".

He was so excited about "parent's weekend" that he could not stop talking about it. Literally. His reason for the excitement was not what you would expect; that he was going to get to see his family - rather - it was that his family was coming up and then taking him home for a little visit! He was absolutely jazzed about this. In the 3+ hours we were there I probably had 15 different conversations with Jeff, and every single one had to do with going home. He was looking so forward to just being home.

Here was a normal conversation...

Jeff: "How many days til parent's weekend?"
Me: "when is parent's weekend"
Jeff: "may 15th"
Me: "well it's only 19 days away. Are you excited!?!?"
Jeff: "yes!!!!! is it too early to pack?"
Me: "are you ready to go"
Jeff: "I already have my clothes packed. Is it too early? Only 19 days til parent's weekend!"
Me: "where are you from"
Jeff: "only 19 days til parent's weekend and I get to go to Nashville! I want to be home!"
Me: "you should start getting ready"
Jeff: "I am ready! I am packed! I need to have Miss Amy (his correspondent) get my list (his list of necessities from Wal Mart)
Jeff: "how long til parent's weekend? I get to go to Nashville! I am packed!"

And this happened about 15 times.

You would think that would get old, hearing and participating in the same old conversation...but in reality it did not. What I could not re-enact in this blog was the passion and desire Jeff had when talking about home. It was the absolute fuel to his life. When he brought up going home and preparing for parent's weekend it looked like he was about to explode! His eyes would fill with wonderment, he would begin to physically shake, and his face would light up and he would laugh...oh would he laugh. He was so overjoyed at the thought of going home he could hardly stand it.

And then it hit me....

Is that not how we should view heaven?

woah. think about that.

Should Heaven not completely fill our thoughts and be our absolute fuel to living? That one day...very soon...God will reunite us with Himself and take us away from this painful, crippling, disabled body and earth and bring us wholly and completely home...FOREVER!

When I saw Jeff's excitement for his home I longed for my home. Even though he had no idea how much he was teaching me or that I was on the verge of tears literally all morning, Jeff showed me how to live with an excitement and awareness for Heaven. And he did it absolutely right. So many times people long so much for Heaven that they miss living here...and Jeff did not do that. He loves his home at the Stewart Home. He loves the people and his friends. And he lets them share in his excitement. Numerous peers of his at Stewart Home actually congratulated him on being able to go home. And it's still almost a month away!

Jeff thanks for showing me how to let my home fill my thoughts. How to fully embrace Heaven, and while doing so impact earth. Have a good trip friend....I hope to see you again soon!

"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God."
- Colossians 3:1-3

and the trumpet sounds....

2008-04-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

Because believe it or not, my graduation is nearing. I never thought that phrase would be a reality. haha.

Yesterday was my last day of class as an undergraduate. To be honest, it was a little bittersweet. I have given five years now to the University of Kentucky, and could not have loved it more, but now...what do I do?

I was just thinking about my new and improved flexibility....what now shall I do. One thing I would like to spend time doing more of is blogging...but what about. I want to read more...but what shall I read. And naturally....I want to play golf more.

So, my question to you all is this....

Is there any topic I should think about/blog about?

Is there any book that I need to read?

Please....flood me with advice! Thanks.

The Knee Saga (Part 2)

2008-04-23T09:57:00.001-07:00

I guess it is time to catch up on the ongoing knee saga...

I had an MRI last Friday and today went back to the orthopedic surgeon to have it evaluated. I have to admit, I was pretty nervous. Thanks to wikipedia, google, and other valuable internet sources, I was convinced I had torn a knee ligament. Did you know there are even message boards set up for discussion on knee injuries....crazy.

I had read many a testimonial on how easy it is to tear a ligament, and was certain I had done so.

However, the MRI showed no conclusive tears in any of my four ligaments, and only a partial tear (if at all) in my meniscus. What the Doc concluded was that my kneecap (patella) had dislocated and relocated as my knee twisted. This accounts for the audible "pop pop" that was heard....it was the sounds of the dislocation, relocation.

When it did said dislocation, it bruised my patella, and my tibia and fibula on the edges. I was actually very lucky that I did not chip any of those bones. Also, as it dislocated it tore tissue (I assume skin and muscle tissue) that surrounds the knee.

The good news is none of this requires surgery. So, that makes it great news. It sounds like it is just going to be a slow catch-up process but hopefully softball, basketball, and most importantly GOLF here I come! My left quadricep is very weak....I was told that I have already lost 30% of its muscle mass...so objective one is to build it back up. Doc told me that could take up to a couple months. Interesting fact...if you isolate and rest a knee for 24-72 hours you could lose up to 40% of your quad strength in that time frame...crazy that it happens so fast.

So...I guess it's off to some physical therapy for me, and hope I am back in action soon.

Thanks for all your thoughts, prayers, concerns, supports, laughs and such. Much appreciated. Now we can all just celebrate that I am a wuss. haha. Praise God for that!

Sign of the Apocalypse?

2008-04-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

The following video is a true speech delivered on the house floor. (I received this from Kentucky Sports Radio)

You can be assured that I would have applauded as well! ; )

check it out...

The Knee Saga (part 1)

2008-04-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

I know many of you have heard about my weekend knee saga. To those of you that encouraged, prayed for, and thought of me...thanks a ton. I hardly deserve it. And to those that thought I was a big baby (which I am) thanks as well. haha. And for those that have no earthly idea what I am talking about...well, here's for you...

Thursday night I was playing basketball with my boys. I went up hard for a rebound over some guys and came down and pivoted to shoot the ball back up. However, when I pivoted, my knee buckled and I heard the 'pop, pop, pop' sound. One of the scariest sounds you will ever hear is the 'pop pop' of a knee. It was so audibly loud that the players guarding me heard it as well. I hobbled off the court sure I had ruptured my Anterior Cruciate Ligament or other knee ligament.

I have spent the last three days doing literally nothing. Taking maybe 30 steps in that time period. While boring as it has been, it was best of me to keep off the knee and let the swelling go down. If I had a picture of it I would post it...but just imagine placing a grapefruit inside your leg and you have my left knee.

This morning at 7:00am I went in to the orthopedic surgeon. As many of you know, I was nervous about this. I didn't want to look forward to a knee surgery that could put me out for months. The OS did all the tests but said he couldn't completely tell due to the swelling. X-rays were negative. He said that he assumed I dislocated my patella (kneecap) and it sliding in and out of place was the 'pop pop'. It is also very likely and probable that I tore my meniscus. That is very good news...at least for now. Do those injuries have pain, sure...but they are not as severe as a torn ligament. However, I am not completely out of the dark. I go in for an MRI this weekend and have it evaluated next Wednesday...so there will be a part two to the saga. Could the MRI show up with a partially torn or fully torn ligament...sure. But hopefully not. I guess we'll see.

I know a lot of people have called, emailed, and asked about my knee...so this is the story thus far. Thanks again for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers...it is much appreciated. Hopefully by next Wednesday I will be fully out of the dark and in the know on where to go from here. Later........

Easter in the Cancer Ward

2008-03-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Drew and Jon have introduced me to my new favorite thing....a poetry workshop at Asbury Seminary. Sadly, tonight is the last night of the formal workshop, so in honor of it I shall post the poem that impacted me the most. Take time to read this poem by Nicholas Samaras, "Easter in the Cancer Ward". Enjoy

Easter in the Cancer Ward

Because it has been years since my hands
have dyed an egg or I've remembered
my father with color in his beard,
because my fingers have forgotten
the feel of wax melting on my skin,
the heat of paraffin warping air,
because I prefer to view death politely from afar,
I agree to visit the children's cancer ward.

In her ballet-like butterfly slippers, Elaine pad-pads
down the carpeted hall. I bring the bright bags,
press down packets of powdered dye, repress my slight unease.
She sweeps her hair from her volunteer's badge, leaves
behind her own residents' ward for a few hours' release.
The new wing's doors glide open onto great light. Everything is
vibrant and clattered with color. Racing
up, children converge, their green voices rising.

What does one do with the embarrassment of staring
at sickness? Suddenly, I don't know where to place
my hands. Children with radiant faces
reach out thinly, clamor for the expected bags, lead
us to the Nurses' kitchen. Elaine introduces me and reads
out a litany of names. Some of the youngest wear
old expressions. The bald little boy loves Elaine's long mane of hair
and holds the healthy thickness to his face, hearing

her laugh as she pulls him close. "I'm dying,"
he says, and Elaine tells him she is, too: too
much iron silting her veins. I can never accept that truth
yet, in five months, she'll slip away in a September
night - leaving her parents and me to bow our heads, bury her
in a white wedding gown, our people's custom.
But right now, I don't know this. Right now, we are young,
still immortal, and the kids fidget, crying

out for their eggs. Elaine divides them into teams;
I lay out the tools for the operation.
I tell them all how painting Easter eggs used to be done
in the Old Country. Before easy dyes were common,
villagers boiled onion peels, ladled eggs
into pots so the shells wouldn't break.
They'd scoop them out, flushed a brownish-
red, and the elders would polish and polish

them with olive oil, singing hymns for the Holy Thursday hours.
The children laugh and boo when I try to sing. The boys swirl
speckles of color into hot water, while the girls
time the eggs. When a white-faced boy asks from nowhere
if I believe in Christ and living forever,
I stop stirring the mix, answer,"Yes, I do." I answer slowly
and when I speak, my own voice deafens me.
The simple truth blooms like these painted flowers

riding up the bright kitchen walls. I come
to belief. I know that much. Still, what a man may
do with belief demands more than what he says.
Now, the hot waters are a stained, rich red. The eggs have
boiled and cooled. To each set of hands, Elaine gives
one towel, three eggs. I pass the pot of melted paraffin,
show these children how to take the eggs and dip them in
and out. While the wax hardens to an opaque film, we hum

Christos Aneste and the room bustles, ajabber
with speech. Holding pins firmly, we scratch out mad
designs where the color will fill. Small, flurried hands
etch and scrim the shells. Everyone's fingers whorl
and scratch in names, delicate and final.
Edging the hall's threshold, an April's allow-
ance of sun filters through tinted windows. Faces furrow
in solemn concentration. Looking to Elaine, my thoughts clamor

for what is redemptive in illness, for having
a Credo to hold these people to me. Etchings
done, everyone immerses the waxy eggs in the pooled
dye. We ooh together when transfigured eggs are spooned
out, wiped and dried on the counters. Soft wax
is peeled gingerly, flecked away; more oohs for the tracks
of limned lines, testimonial names.
We burnish the shells with olive oil for a fine sheen

For a moment, the cultivated, finished eggs hush
the room. Then, every child goes wild in a rush
to compare, they show the nurses, each
other. The bald boy taps my waist, Lined up and speech-
less, they present me with a bright, autographed
egg, communally done. Elaine makes me close my eyes and laughs
when small limbs push at my back to follow
her. They shove my hand in the cool, wet, red dye. The hollow-

eyed girl squeals till tears streak from her laughing.
Another child cries, "You'll never get it off!"
And today, I don't want to. Today,
we've painted eggs a lively color, not caring
about the body's cells and the cells' incarceration.
I lift my arms to embrace Elaine and dab her nose and chin.
And my hands are vivid red. My hands
are bloody with resurrection.

and we are laughing.

Thank You Ladies....

2008-03-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

Because believe it or not, you are always teaching us fellas something.

I was having the discussion just the other day how mysterious girls can be; that to us guys, their very nature and way of interacting is an absolute enigma at times. For example, and one of my favorite examples, is the situation that takes place when riding in a car.

First I will begin with the guy version of this situation. (NOTE: This is a car full of guys)

Guy A (to driver; Guy B): Man, turn down the heat...it's running me outta here!

Guy B (turns down heat): ok.

Now let's insert a to this car two girls....

Girl A (very ambiguously to Girl B): Do you think it's hot in here?

Girl B (in response to Girl A): Yeah it may be a little hot....

5 minutes later....

Girl A (this time speaking louder so the driver, Guy B, gets the point): So, do you still think it's hot in here?

Guy B (speaking to the car): Is it too hot?

Girls A and B (looking at each other): It's whatever....but it's a little warm.

And there you have it. Complete mystery. This situation cracks me up every time I see it (especially as the bonehead driver out of touch with the subtle hints from you ladies). But this situation can also be a great instructor. It opens up the very reason that guys sometimes fail to understand their female counterparts...they aren't clued into the mystery.

In reading the book of Proverbs you stumble across a lot of verses concerning wisdom, many of which refer to wisdom as a person - and surprisingly enough that person being female. Now, I am not attempting to hold a spiritual women's equality seminary here, but if you know anything about the timeframe and culture from which the book of Proverbs arises, then you know that women were not looked at like men were. Considering that the Jewish culture was a very patriarchal one it is quite surprising to see Wisdom, referred to as a trait from the Lord, to be given a female quality.

In researching the Hebrew language, the word for wisdom is "hochmah". This word holds only a God-like quality, and is different, not a synonym for the word knowledge or "Yad" - which is acquired human knowledge, from experience - even experiences with God. "Hochmah" is an innate God knowledge, understandings of His plans, His will, and His purpose. And interestingly enough, "Hochmah", a central trait to God is female (complete with an 'ah' ending).

Why is God's wisdom female? Simple, because it is mysterious. To a culture that lived, breathed, and moved within a male-driven society, the wisdom of the Lord was and is strangely mysterious. And even still to us, there is this mystery and beauty about God's way that just perplexes us...just like as a guy, so do my female friends confuse me. There is such beauty and wonder in the mystery! So again I say to you ladies...thanks for the insight. And much like I would like God to tell me just how to do things (the same as I would prefer a girl to just instruct me to turn the heat down) there is such an amazing beauty in the fact that he gives little insights and hints to see if I am paying attention, if I am connecting to Him, and if I can respond in a way that pleases Him. Thanks for the mystery - it makes her...and HIM so much more beautiful!

Friday Funnies....

2008-02-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

with Ron Burgundy. Check out these clips.....

Life According to Bo

2008-02-19T06:44:00.000-08:00

My roommate Ryan has a boxer that makes a nice addition to our house. His name is BoJangles, or Bo for short.

It's funny how God uses little things to teach us big things. In lieu of yesterdays all-night-guy-a-thon at the house, I spent a bulk of my time at home with Bo. I was watching him as he reacted to food that I was eating. He is an excellent beggar. I realized something. Anything I give Bo is better than his current situation. Piece of chicken vs. dog bone, or, roast beef vs. pedigree. It's really a no brainer.

However,Bo's ability to reason is not excellent. He is content with what he has in his mouth. If I give Bo a cheap hot dog, and then hold up a steak - he will continue to eat his hot dog, even though I promise the steak is better. He will, no doubt, get around to the steak - but on his time, after he finished what is currently in his mouth.

Aren't we the same? Think about it. Think of what God has in store for us, yet sometimes we are so preoccupied with what we are currently doing we can't see it. We hold onto our bare rib bone instead of embracing the glorious meal He has for us. It's so easy for us to just get along with what tastes comfortable, not what is best. We even deceive ourselves and think what we have in our mouths is best. I can see Bo thinking to himself, "Man, it doesn't get better than this hot dog".

Yes it does Bo, I promise.

Lord, may you continually bring me nourishment and food, as well as treats and blessings, and if I do not move onto what is best, rip it out of my mouth! Even if you take my teeth with it! I trust you in that balance.

Funniest Commercial Ever

2008-01-23T11:07:00.000-08:00

This is seriously the funniest, most creative commercial I have ever seen. I have laughed for hours. Amazing. I wish Burger King lived closer....haha.

Whatever it takes; what is the world coming to?

2007-12-30T06:14:00.000-08:00

I am currently sitting in the green-room off of our church stage during our 8:30 service this morning and just finished doing a little news surfing. I came across a story on cnn.com about a young six year old girl who won Hannah Montana tickets for writing the winning essay. However, the essay, which stated that her dad had recently died in Iraq was a lie. Haven't heard of this story...you should check it out.

The most unbelievable part of the story is the comment from the mom...."We did whatever we could do to win." Wow. What example does this set for your children; that you can lie and cheat to get ahead. Remember, this was not the essay of a 20 year old, but a SIX year old.

What is a bigger shame is that Hannah Montana (nothing against her) has such an influence that she is worth "whatever it takes."

My question to us as Christians is simple...does Hannah Montana, or sports tickets, or the newest movie or whatever have a bigger draw to our life than Christ? Would we do whatever it takes to champion Him? (note: I do not mean lying on an essay).

This thought takes me to a story in Mark 2 about four guys that literally did whatever they could to gain access to Jesus, even if that mean coming through a roof. They knew that their hope lied solely in Him. Do we feel the same? If it is sad that the example of lying and deceit is being shown to this young girl, then isn't it even more disturbing to know that Hannah Montana is worth that pursuit, and that this young girl, and maybe youngsters everywhere have more influence on the pursuit of unimportant things and they have no example of what it means in our culture to pursue and chase after our only Hope, namely, Jesus. We as Christians could perhaps learn something from this....do we do "whatever it takes"?

Resolutions

2007-12-27T07:30:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. Resolution time!

What is it going to be this year? Workout more, spend less, save more, lose weight, find that relationship, eat healthier?

Which one are you choosing? I have not completely decided on mine yet, and will inform the blog-nation of my decision (do not judge if it is cliche).

This resolution stuff got me to thinking. Why exactly do we make these yearly resolutions? Are we just following tradition, or is their something about our lives that needs changing?

I looked up resolution in the dictionary and stumbled upon this; 1. that a resolution is a firm decision to do or not do something, and 2. that it is the action of solving a problem.

I found the pairing of these definitions pretty cool. We are faced with all kinds of problems; some may be situations we allow ourselves to be in, mindsets and attitudes we hold, habits we continually participate in, and grudges we hold to name a few. So this year, what are you going to do about it? Who do you need to forgive, what grudge do you need to let go of? What attitude do you need to change? What habit needs to stop? You decide - it's your resolution.

If you are making any New Year's Resolutions or have any cool resolution stories please share them in the comment section. It would be fun!

And Now he is in TIME

2007-12-10T19:51:00.000-08:00

that's right ladies and gents...Rob Bell has hit TIME magazine.

Not a bad read - you should check it out. Rob Bell in TIME

Hebrew 4: Spring 08

2007-12-07T06:57:00.000-08:00

My last installment (and final Minor requirement) for my undergraduate Hebrew is going to be REALLY exciting. We are going to be talking about topics such as:

- Genesis 1 and 2 (the two creation accounts)
- Psalms
- Job
- A Biblical (old testament) Approach to Abortion
- Proverbs
- History (Kings and Wars)
- The Exodus (if we have time)

I can't wait. Should be a lot of fun, a lot of good discussion, and consequently, a lot of blogging!

Shabbat

2007-11-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

Here recently I have been so overwhelmed with the idea of Sabbath, or in Hebrew, Shabbat. Literally, Shabbat means to rest or to ease. The word Shabbat is mentioned 89 times in scripture, and that does not include all the references to resting or being still. If it is mentioned so many times, then why is it ignored so much. Do we believe that Sabbath is something 'old school' and irrelevant? I think so.

I have been attempting to study the idea of Sabbath for some time now. The true Jewish picture of Sabbath is unbelievably dedicated and committed. The more I study Sabbath, the more I am assured that it is not this be lazy, care free, and get off your feet time, but rather, it emphasizes preparing yourself FOR resting. If you just ignore deadlines, life, work, etc and are lazy - that pressure still exists. However, if you properly prepare yourself to rest you can focus on the very thing that needs your attention the most - your relationship with the Lord.

I have also found that there is no better way to study Sabbath than to participate.

The concept of stopping to rest seems almost ridiculous to me. I cannot fathom it because it seems so impossible. Sunday, for me is a legitimate work day (a 13 hour one yesterday), and most Saturdays are consumed with youth events or something of the like. When am I supposed to rest? In order to properly Sabbath the first thing I have to do is kill the excuses. I do have time, I just have to prepare for it.

This Advent season we as a church family are fasting. We are fasting from something in our lives so that we can focus, celebrate, and prepare for His coming. For some people, that fast may be tv. They watch tv. For some, music. And for others, they may eat too much chocolate...so from chocolate they fast. But me? Well, very simply put - I busy. Busy is a verb for me. So, I am fasting from busy, and doing so by adding a psuedo-sabbath.

My Sabbath time is a baby for now, but will hopefully grow. My time is very split up and every week includes working at the church, ministry, school, and coaching. Therefore, my sabbath possibilities are limited. But, it starts today. Over the next 5 weeks, with dad down with his surgery, I will be sharing the teaching load with Steve and Drew. I need to prepare myself, physically, spiritually, and emotionally for this increase. So, every Monday from 3-7pm I am sabbath-ing. No cell phone. No email/facebook/blog/myspace. No tv. Just me, my Lord, and my thoughts. I will no doubt read, I will study, and heck, sometimes I may even sleep. I will not be a strict adherer to sabbath principles like an orthodox Jew. I will still turn on lights, and "work" - or what would be considered work. But it is going to be some simple 'me' time. I cannot wait. I never thought it would be possible to include this into my schedule, but lo and behold, here it comes!

Wish me luck this Advent season as I attempt to apply this principle of Sabbath. I hope it benefits me and every relationship I participate in. We'll see how it goes!

From Julian to Jesus: (The Long Narrative)

2007-11-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

Tired and weary after our long journey to New Orleans, our mission group gathered in this small church (our central hub for the week) awaiting our massive order of pizzas to arrive. Another guy and myself went to get all our pizzas and as we were bringing them in I noticed a man not part of our group. He was a small hispanic man working on laying tile in one corner of the dining area of the church. He was working diligently and minding his own business as he took care of his task. Something prompted me to greet him.

"Hola Senor!"

To which he looked up and greeted me back. My sister, Laura, wanted to invite him over for pizza with us. In doing so she started with the simple question -

"Como se llama?"

"Julian"

And that is when I met Julian.

I never imagined that this one simple meeting would impact my life the way it would. This was the beginning of what would become a very special connection between two souls.

Laura did invite him to eat with us and he did. Laura and Andrea began to talk with him in spanish as best they could. Julian understood very little english, and he spoke even less. Laura and Andrea both had limited training in spanish but could get by and hold a conversation. Then there was me, the ever bullish intruder into conversation with my EXTREMELY limited capacity to understand anything spanish. Basically the only spanish I knew was what could place my order and communicate with the waiter at your basic Mexican restaurant - which if you were wondering was not much. Heck, even the taco bell dog spoke more spanish than I did.

Despite my inability to communicate well in spanish, I was still intrigued by Julian. Through the help of Laura and Andrea's translations and the Lord taking me back to my old spanish lessons, I was able to hear his story.

Julian was a citizen of Honduras. His wife and three children (13,14 and 16) still lived there. His wife was actually an english teacher in Honduras. He was in America for five years on a work visa learning trades so that he could go home and teach alongside his wife in a center devoted to training Honduran children how to learn english and learn trades so that they could live and establish citizenship in America. Julian told us that in Honduras an eight hour work day pays four dollars. The money he made from simply being over here was a blessing that he could send home to his family.

Julian was in year three of his time in America and New Orleans. He safely made it through Katrina and Rita spending his evacuation time in Houston. He was now back in Chalmette, Louisiana working for Covenant United Methodist Church putting his skills to use.

Everyday when we would come in for lunch from working on our site Julian would be working in the church. Then when we would return to the church that evening for our dinner meals, he would still be there. I found myself looking forward to seeing him every time. I am not sure what it was about him that drew me to him, but something did.

As the week continued we talked with him more and more. We began to joke around with him, laugh with him, sing with him, and even pray with him - and he with us. One day, on Jeremy's birthday he led a stirring rendition of "Feliz Cumpleanos".

There was a special joy that he exuded in everything he did. It was attractive and it was contagious and it was peaceful.

On thursday, our last day of work, he told Steve that he was going to be working with us that day. Upon hearing this news, Laura came over to me concerned. She was worried about throwing him into the mix of the family we worked with (which had its own worries and chaos). She also wondered if they would treat a hispanic man in their home with disrespect - something she did not want to subject Julian to. Steve also had a pow-wow with me concerning the logistics of taking him with us. Who was he with? Is he allowed to go with us? What if he gets hurt? These logistics are a part of good leadership but through the whole discussion on whether or not Julian should go with us I just felt a peace. I felt like God had brought him into our lives for a reason, and I trusted that. So...with us he came.

As soon as he got into the Jeep with us we popped his favorite spanish praise and worship cd and rocked out all the way to the job site. He explained in spanish how praise music is like the smell of a flower to God and how happy that it made him. I definitely agreed.

As soon as we arrived at the job site our family greeted us with a boom. One of the girls in the house was awakened by our working and in response proceeded to curse at us and her family. For ten minutes or so we were hit with a barrage of filthy language and cursing. As Chuck put it - "I did not know the F word came like Baskin Robbins - in 31 different flavors." The young lady left the house and then after the dust settled we began to work.

The whole time during the morning disturbance Julian just worked. I envied him. I envied the fact that many of the things she said were foreign to him, and he was able to focus on what he was there to do - simply serve.

As the day went on, and especially as I view my time working alongside Julian in hindsight I realize how special of a day that it was. For six hours Julian and I worked, ate, sat, and rode side by side....and for those six hours we communicated flawlessly. And remember the catch - I can speak very little spanish, and he can speak very little english. We talked about God, about school, about work, about our families, about each other's lives, about our passions, about sports, prayed with each other, and talked about food - and I cannot explain how. In Acts chapter 2 reads a story of when Peter, newly spirit empowered, walks out into the street and begins preaching - and everyone understands him in their own language! This is the closest thing to the Pentecost story that I have ever experienced. The Lord gave us both patience to communicate, and continually brought me an understanding of what Julian was saying to me....and I assume gave him the same understanding of my words to him. It was truly amazing at how God and God alone provided us with the context for communication.

On the way home from work, and knowing that it was our last day in New Orleans, I invited Julian to come eat with us one last time. As 7:30 rolled around that evening I was excited to see my newfound friend roll up on his little red bicycle. He was a few minutes late, and his appearance explained why. I had never seen Julian out of his work clothes - a paint stained pair of light khaki pants and a ripped and stained long sleeved work shirt. But tonight he honored us...even in his dress. He wore a sleek black shirt, pressed dress pants, shined shoes and his hair was slicked back, not in it's usual hat. He dressed to respect us.

We feasted on jambalaya and then had a final meeting as a group. During the meeting we went about our usual business and then spent a time discussing our peace button. On day one in New Orleans we bought a cheap, hippie-inspired peace sign button at a convenience store. We passed this around through our group all week long to people who brought us peace. I took the button at the end of the meeting and was going to present it to Julian. I explained to him as best I could and told him it was an honor to work beside him. I thanked him for his hard work. And I ended by telling him he made my heart happy. (and yes...i attempted all this in spanish). I choked up a bit as usual, gave him the button, and joined our group in applause for him. He had truly been a blessing to us that week.

As I concluded by presentation of the gift to him, I stayed on the verge of tears. I felt like a big baby. I even left the meeting room and waved at my eyes to dry them up. There was something just tugging at my heart that kept me within an instance of weeping. I couldn't explain it. After the meeting I went back into the little sanctuary room where I found Julian. He asked me again about the button, and I explained it was a symbol of peace, and that he deserved it. There was a minute of somewhat awkward silence between us and then it happened.

Then he looked right at me...staring me in the eyes, but looking into my heart and he said these words...IN PERFECT ENGLISH!

"I love you for who you are"

At the sound of hearing this phrase I hit my knees and just wept. He said to me again, this time in spanish, that I was his brother forever and would always be family. He said I was an excellent person and that our conversations all week made him happy and were all for the Lord.

I couldn't stop crying. It was not a sadness, just a speechless expression of joy and awe at how mighty our God is. His words to me may have used his vocal chords, and his lips may have been moving - but I can assure you that it was Jesus speaking to me.

He then wanted my contact info and I wanted his so we began to swap that as well. In looking through his little notebook I flipped page after page full of contact info of people that this quiet and quaint man's life had touched. I was in awe. I could not stop weeping. I went in the bathroom and sat on the floor for a good 10 minutes just crying before the Lord. I felt the Lord take me to Isaiah chapter 6, where Isaiah encounters God and is rendered speechless, a man with lips not worthy to speak. I now understand Isaiah's plight. I have never been more sure of being in God's presence as I was that night.

Julian embodied the characteristics of Christ more than any man I have ever met. When I say I left my heart in New Orleans it's caretaker is a humble and meek man named Julian. The things this man taught me about the Lord cannot be contained in this story...they must be unpacked in one to follow. But I do know this....

I know that for going on 16 years now I have followed Christ. I think I know what that looks like. But on Thursday night, October 18th, I fell in love with Jesus....because I fell in love with the heart of a man named Julian. And this love was enough to change the heart of a guy who many times sees himself going through the motions of what it means to follow Christ - ignoring the heart that God has given me.

Andrea came to me later that night and said that it was good to see my heart come out like it did.

I don't mean this pridefully, but it was good for ME to see MY heart come out. Sometimes I feel like I leave it places and say things that I know will just work, things that are even truth. But to get a chance to see your own heart spill for love of Christ is a motivation that cannot be described.

Although you will probably never read this, Julian, I thank you. I thank you for looking different and foreign. Not because you are from Honduras, but because you are a citizen of heaven. The phrase "Let Heaven fill your thoughts" has never been more evident to me than it is now. Seeing Julian live life proves that when Heaven fills your thoughts, it overflows into your life.

Again, my brother, mi hermano, te amo y mucho gracias!

Facing Your Dwarfs?

2007-09-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

I just got home from an amazing weekend spent down at Trooper Island at Dale Hollow Lake. While there we, our Hope Church community, went through a very profound series on how to face our giants in life.

Pulling from the book of 1 Samuel, we looked at the story of David and Goliath, and how David defeated his giant with five small stones. We applied a word to each stone and worked through our own version of the five stones this weekend. We used Prayer, Priority, Persistence, Past, and Passion as the five stones to kill our giants.

It was so refreshing to see the Lord work up on some folks. He brought healing to some situations, He restored relationships, and He gave many a newness and excitement to bring home.

There was a point in the weekend when we went to the "Giant's Lair". While in this dark, secluded room we thought about our personal giants and wrote them on a window pane and mirror. To conclude the week, we took one stone (just like David) and threw it through the glass - representing how we have gotten over our giant.

But, while in the room, it really hit me.

Forgive me for sounding prideful - just bear with me....but I don't think I have a bona fide Giant that I am struggling with in life.

For me it is a little different.

Have you ever read "Gulliver's Travels"? "Gulliver's Travels", a novel by Jonathan Swift in the early 1700's is about the travels to remote nations by the main character Gulliver. In his travel to Liliput, Gulliver awakens after a shipwreck to find himself held captive by the 6 inch tall inhabitants of the island. Hundreds of little bitty miniature people have tied him down and hold him hostage.

It's not the giants that I fear. It's the hundreds of little things that trip me up. It's the little thing here that takes my focus - or the little thing there that steals my time. It's the financial struggle this week, and then the lack of passion the next. Are these giants that I face day in and out - usually not. But the overwhelming number of little things can sometimes be harder to snuff out than a giant. Just when I begin to walk in freedom and truth over one platoon of little dwarfs, another group will take me down.

But, I know this. I was meant to live for more. I was meant to live for more than swatting at the annoying little flies that seem to swarm around me.

I was meant to live to pursue passion and purpose.

I look to the words of the writer of Hebrews when he talking about his d - not his giants.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
- Hebrews 12:1

What that passage says to me is that I can do it. I possess the ability to persevere and make it. And why? Because I am surrounded by people who have done the same. I am not silly enough to assume that you only struggle with giants - I know you struggle with the little things too....just like me.

And so why spend our time swatting at all the little things - and lets just run through it. Let's run the race that has no boundaries, and no end. Let's let the wind rush through our hair and cool our skin. Let's join in this together and strip off the little things - and run. Just run. You may already be running - and I am just beginning to start. Anyone ready for a jog? Company is always welcome!

Who Says Loving God Isn't Fun?

2007-08-15T18:33:00.000-07:00

tonight was cool.

It never fails how God amazes those who are obedient to Him.

I am not going to go into extreme details - if you want to know more, just ask me. but I got to give someone a gift tonight that really blessed them. I hope they enjoy it and put it to use.

do I say all this in pride - psshhhh...hardly. I just am amazed at how good it feels to give something away. all our flesh, all of our nature says to pile stuff up for ourselves, that it is survival of the fittest...but yet this life in Christ is flipped completely on its head because it says we will receive even MORE satisfaction in life by giving. guess what....it's right.

If you hear me at all, ever, be willing to give to people.

give your time.

give your energy.

give your thoughts.

and sometimes give your money.

but more than anything - give your willingness. willingness to be the difference maker in a life that needs such a catalyst.

i believe in you - i know you can!

why do I always do this...

2007-08-15T18:32:00.001-07:00

my goodness...how long it has been. thank you to all the loyal readers that enjoyed my old old blogs...

at last, a new blogging day has come. i need to make this more of a discipline - journaling my thoughts. even if they aren't well thought out, put together, and a bit messy....i think they should go down. at least some of them.

well...here goes.

Hope for the Hokies

2007-04-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

Passion is doing some cool stuff to celebrate Hope at Virginia Tech.

In reading Louie's blog tonight at 268blog.blogspot.com I noticed what they are doing for VT. Please join them and myself and make this picture our profile picture on facebook to honor and remember those at VT.

Part of us will always be Hokies. And to the Hokies...there is Hope, and Hope is Jesus.

Let His light shine in you and through you.

So Fresh and So Clean

2007-04-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

Hello faithful readers....(or facebook addicts who click on updated notes!)

On Saturday, April 28th, there will be a car wash/yard sale going on to raise money for Meredyth Cann and Sara Medley's mission trip to Africa.

The yard sale will begin at 8am. And the Car Wash at 10am. Ending times on this are TBA.

The location for this is right out in front of the Lawrenceburg Physical Therapy building off of Hwy 44 (aka Woodford St.). It's located right behind the new Wal-Mart if you turn off of Hwy. 127.

You should definitely come out and browse the yard sale (at last check there was a chip bowl that looked like a sombrero that plays the "Mexican Hat Dance" - I mean who doesn't want that!?!?)

Also, stop in and drop off your car...you can even shop while it's being spotlessly and B-E-A-utifully cleaned. Donations will be accepted!

What's that....you want to help?

well, we need: car washers/car sprayers/car inside cleaners/money table people/yard sale monitors/ etc. We have people covering these spots, but any extra help would be greatly appreciated. So, if anyone else is interested in helping please contact Meredyth Cann at 859-536-780 or Me!

Also, and lastly, there is a raffle going on. Here are Meredyth's words about the raffle:

"I am raffling off a bird house. Really nice-hand made just for this- comes with a stand. $5 a ticket. I am also raffling a women's/mother's basket. Great for mothers day and birthdays. Here is what is in the basket- Gift cards for: Applebees [$50] movie gallery [$10] free oil change, and a free pizza at dominos. Decorative pillow, 3 books about being a woman of God [mentoring moms, Every Woman's battle, and Waking the dead] a Lawrenceburg Candle, 3lbs of Starbucks coffee, Victoria Secret lotion."

-FIVE BUCKS A TICKET....what a STEAL!-

ok guys, come on out and participate. twill be a fun fun day.

Unbelievable

2007-04-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

From Westboro Baptist Church Website "godhatesamerica.com"....

WBC will preach at the funerals of the Virginia Tech students killed on campus during a shooting rampage April 16, 2007. You describe this as monumental horror, but you know nothing of horror -- yet. Your bloody tyrant Bush says he is 'horrified' by it all. You know nothing of horror -- yet. Your true horror is coming.

"They shall also gird themselves with sackloth, and horror shall cover them; and shame shall be upon all faces, and baldness upon all their heads" (Eze. 7:18).

Why did this happen, you ask? It's simple. Your military chose to shoot at the servants of God today, and all they got for their effort was terror. Then, the LORD your God sent a crazed madman to shoot at your children. Was God asleep while this took place? Was He on vacation? Of course not. He willed this to happen to punish you for assailing His servants.

This may be the most unbelievable and appalling statement I have ever seen. I simply cannot believe it. I am speechless.

Comments like these make me want to re-think Grace.

more to come....mayber

Lent or not to Lent....that is the question

2007-02-20T13:12:00.000-08:00

Ahhh Fat Tuesday. Today some areas on campus were hopping with jazz music and bead throwing. Mardi Gras is upon us. This only means one thing....well..it could mean a lot of things, but it at least means this: Ash Wednesday is tomorrow, thus the beginning of lent.

I have to admit, I do not know much about lent or its history. I only know a poor man's version from some superficial reading and conversations about the topic. In a nutshell, you fast and pray from Ash Wednesday until the Saturday before Easter, April 7th this year, excluding the Sunday's reserved for celebration of the resurrection of Christ. You are then left with 40 days. 40 has such significance in the Bible...40 days by Moses and Elijah in the wilderness, 40 days/nights for Noah, 40 years of desert wandering in Exodus, and 40 days spent in temptation by Jesus himself. So we too can share in this 40 day symbolism by fasting for 40 days.

Now...what to fast from.

I have seen a bit of it all when it comes to fasting for lent. I have seen friends fast from chocolate, video games, fast food, golfing, cursing, driving, shopping, and eating altogether. Which to me, begs the question...why are we fasting?

Have I participated in these noteworthy fasts....yes...just a few years back I fasted from fast food myself. But why? What was I accomplishing by fasting from this? Some may state that I maintained better health, however, I can assure you I did not. Instead of fries at McDonald's I substitued fries from Applebees...and spent more money in the process. But, I stuck to my guns...and got by on my Applebees fries.

I say all this to make a point. Lent, by its origin is a time where we suffer or fast from something to honor God and give him proper reverance. So, how was I honoring God by chomping down my fries...yet maintain my adherence to my fast food fast. Quite frankly, all I feel like I was honoring was my commitment to abstain from fast food...not God. Which begs the question what kind of fast for lent brings God honor?

Before I unpack all this let me make this statement. In NO way am I slamming tradition, any religious group, or fasting here. I have the upmost respect for individuals who are devoted and committed to their faith and/or traditions. I celebrate traditions all the time myself. All I am doing is hopefully providing a new framework and direction for actions to accompany fasting.

Now...let's journey.

Check out Isaiah 58. (I shall even copy and paste it in here to create the longest blog known to man!)

“Shout with the voice of a trumpet blast.
Shout aloud! Don’t be timid.
Tell my people Israel of their sins!
2 Yet they act so pious!
They come to the Temple every day
and seem delighted to learn all about me.
They act like a righteous nation
that would never abandon the laws of its God.
They ask me to take action on their behalf,
pretending they want to be near me.
3 ‘We have fasted before you!’ they say.
‘Why aren’t you impressed?
We have been very hard on ourselves,
and you don’t even notice it!’

“I will tell you why!” I respond.
“It’s because you are fasting to please yourselves.
Even while you fast,
you keep oppressing your workers.
4 What good is fasting
when you keep on fighting and quarreling?
This kind of fasting
will never get you anywhere with me.
5 You humble yourselves
by going through the motions of penance,
bowing your heads
like reeds bending in the wind.
You dress in burlap
and cover yourselves with ashes.
Is this what you call fasting?
Do you really think this will please the Lord?

6 “No, this is the kind of fasting I want:
Free those who are wrongly imprisoned;
lighten the burden of those who work for you.
Let the oppressed go free,
and remove the chains that bind people.
7 Share your food with the hungry,
and give shelter to the homeless.
Give clothes to those who need them,
and do not hide from relatives who need your help.

8 “Then your salvation will come like the dawn,
and your wounds will quickly heal.
Your godliness will lead you forward,
and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
9 Then when you call, the Lord will answer.
‘Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply.

“Remove the heavy yoke of oppression.
Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors!
10 Feed the hungry,
and help those in trouble.
Then your light will shine out from the darkness,
and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.
11 The Lord will guide you continually,
giving you water when you are dry
and restoring your strength.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like an ever-flowing spring.
12 Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities.
Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls
and a restorer of homes.

13 “Keep the Sabbath day holy.
Don’t pursue your own interests on that day,
but enjoy the Sabbath
and speak of it with delight as the Lord’s holy day.
Honor the Sabbath in everything you do on that day,
and don’t follow your own desires or talk idly.
14 Then the Lord will be your delight.
I will give you great honor
and satisfy you with the inheritance I promised to your ancestor Jacob.
I, the Lord, have spoken!”

To read the above passage and still wonder if the Lord is impressed with my fast from McDonald's is laughable. We fully embrace fasts from chocolate and other petty products and yet pack out our church houses on Easter Sunday as if we were sanctifying ourselves in the process.

It seems clear to me that the Lord desires a bit more out of us that just a simple little fast from something insignificant...and possibly even something of greater significance. The people of Israel were devoting themselves to true fasting and prayer...not from products like Hersheys...and the Lord still was very adamant about His expecations from them. He rebuked His own people and demanded that the fasting he desired was not one of reducing an action (e.g. eating) but promoting action (e.g. sharing His message so that Light is brought to darkness).

We as Christians now live in an era of easy. Many times (myself included) we do as little as we can to promote our mission. I can see the facebook statuses now...."Andrew is...fasting from (insert insignifanct thing here - coffee, fast food, coke, chocolate, etc)". When in reality, we should be less concerned with what we are taking away, and more concerned with a mission we should be adding.

Am I suggesting that you do not fast for lent? Well...maybe...but if that is all you get out of this blog, then you wasted a lot of time reading. No...I am not hating on or discouraging fasting...I am just promoting action.

I challenge you to be willing to add the task of meeting needs and bringing truth to the people around you. Instead of not eating and praying for strength to get through your fast...start dining WITH people and praying for truth to impact their lives.

This season, as Easter nears and the reality of a risen Savior is understood...take on the mission of impacting the lives of those around you. You want to show your devotion and prove that you love God...then do what he commands. Jesus said, "if you love me, then you will obey my commands"

We live simply to do this..."Love God...and Love People". This season, do not focus on what you are taking away....but focus on what the Lord would like to add to your life...and that is the blessing that comes with visible life change, and seeing lives change all around you. Get your hands dirty...and start serving others. That is true fasting.

Looks like the blog hit the backburner...

2007-01-11T20:12:00.000-08:00

wouldn't you say?

I suppose no one even reads this, but could you blame them. The word dormant does not even begin to describe the state of this blog.

Therefore, I sense a change in the winds. It's time to re-commit to blogging, if for no other reason, I need to jot down, and keep some ideas floating...even if I am the only one to read them. haha. We'll see how it goes. Hopefully something is coming along really soon. A song, perhaps, or possibly a journal entry. Keep watchin!

Bringing us this far....

2006-08-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, August 23rd, Hope Community Church will be celebrating 8 years of existence. Since I work at Hope, all of last week and so far this week I have been digging through tons of old video and pictures of our 8 years of being together. It is so amazing to see God's faithfulness, and hear stories of His provision these past 8 years.

Now we sit, 8 years old, approaching moving into a new building, on our new land. Its been an incredible ride thus far. In just remembering, watching, and hearing about our 8 year old story, God is made extremely magnificent. He has brought us a long way - He has brought us this far. But He still has a long way to take us....as individuals, and as a church. Praise be to His glorious name!

"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us." - 1 Samuel 7:12

We're on a journey.
To follow after You
We're on a mission
To mimic all You do

And we've come this far
Just take a look around
And we've come this far
And we trust You to lead us where You are

We can tell stories
Of Your faithful, holy name
And our hearts are resounding
Of Your glory and Your fame

And we've come this far
Just take a look around
And we've come this far
And we trust You to lead us where You are

When we're worried
And we think we've lost our way
We look to Your throne
And we see Your loving face

And You've brought us this far
Let's take a look around
And You've brought us this far
And we trust You to lead us where You are

Welcome Me....

2006-07-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

to a world full of blogging. I'm excited. Hope it does not wear off.