The end of unscheduled Sunday activity has reached us.
Next week, soccer starts on Sunday evening and shortly after it ends, its time for fantasy football. Don't worry though, I kept up with the NFL draft most of the weekend so I could know how it might affect my fantasy football future.
Look for me next week at the soccer field.
Here's to hoping it doesn't rain.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
172,900
That's the new TextTwist high score for Jenny and I. It took us a game that lasted 2 hours and 7 minutes to set that mark. We likely won't beat it soon.
We almost lost it on the words "addend" and "hafted" but barely pulled through those rounds. It was finally "tibias" that brought us to our demise.
If any of you would like to play TextTwist to try and beat our score, you can find it for free at "yahoo.com" under their games section.
I feel not so bad on two of those words since even the spellchecker for blogger thinks they aren't words.
We almost lost it on the words "addend" and "hafted" but barely pulled through those rounds. It was finally "tibias" that brought us to our demise.
If any of you would like to play TextTwist to try and beat our score, you can find it for free at "yahoo.com" under their games section.
I feel not so bad on two of those words since even the spellchecker for blogger thinks they aren't words.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Our New Office
Since Jenny and I began the kitchen project, our actual dining room table is full of other things. The dining room table was our office away from the office. Our computer rested there and whenever I used it, that is likely where you could find me.
Because we have both been too lazy to clean that table off since starting that project, our new office is portable. We use the computer on the couch (yay wireless) and rest in on a chair right behind the couch when we aren't using it.
We are on our third office in this house now. I don't know where else it can move to. I also don't know when it will start regressing through the same channels. Eventually, it will likely move back to the dining room table, though I doubt it will actually move back to the physical office. The books and computer just don't get along well.
Because we have both been too lazy to clean that table off since starting that project, our new office is portable. We use the computer on the couch (yay wireless) and rest in on a chair right behind the couch when we aren't using it.
We are on our third office in this house now. I don't know where else it can move to. I also don't know when it will start regressing through the same channels. Eventually, it will likely move back to the dining room table, though I doubt it will actually move back to the physical office. The books and computer just don't get along well.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
What Quenches Worry?
I don't live my life worrying very much. I really never have. I've never been overly concerned that finances wouldn't work out (not because of me, but because of a great resource of people around me). I've never been concerned that I couldn't find a job. I've never been concerned that I wouldn't overcome a sickness, or that an injury would debilitate me. I've never had many of these worries, but my worry has usually been quenched for the wrong reasons.
People around me have helped me not too worry. Stewardship has helped me not to worry. Doctors, medicine, a physically fit body, a wife, parents, mentors have all helped me not to worry. Friends have helped me not to worry.
What I don't think, however, is that any of these things are supposed to be what would quench my worry.
Only faith should do that. Stewardship wasn't designed to prevent worry, faith was. Trust in God is far more important than placing my trust in any of the good things listed above.
I had this thought thinking of money the other day. Specifically, that money and my ability to create it should never be an issue to avoid worry. Faith is what sustains me, not money.
I'm still trying to figure out what that looks like in my life, but I'm trying. Trying to organize and live in a way that it is obvious faith runs me, not these other things.
People around me have helped me not too worry. Stewardship has helped me not to worry. Doctors, medicine, a physically fit body, a wife, parents, mentors have all helped me not to worry. Friends have helped me not to worry.
What I don't think, however, is that any of these things are supposed to be what would quench my worry.
Only faith should do that. Stewardship wasn't designed to prevent worry, faith was. Trust in God is far more important than placing my trust in any of the good things listed above.
I had this thought thinking of money the other day. Specifically, that money and my ability to create it should never be an issue to avoid worry. Faith is what sustains me, not money.
I'm still trying to figure out what that looks like in my life, but I'm trying. Trying to organize and live in a way that it is obvious faith runs me, not these other things.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Long Day
8 hours and approximately 1500 T-Shirts later, I'm done folding clothes for a while.
That included 6 sermons and a much needed lunch break to Chipotle as well.
I think I used all my brain capacity at 8:30 this morning when Jenny taught me the new way that I needed to fold these shirts to keep them in the best balance of flatness and presentableness. My mind has been mush since repeating that action so many times.
I'll have something thoughtful to post tomorrow.
That included 6 sermons and a much needed lunch break to Chipotle as well.
I think I used all my brain capacity at 8:30 this morning when Jenny taught me the new way that I needed to fold these shirts to keep them in the best balance of flatness and presentableness. My mind has been mush since repeating that action so many times.
I'll have something thoughtful to post tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Day at the Office
Tomorrow I'll be working with Jenny at her office during the day. I'll be helping her fold t-shirts, something I don't seem to do often at home, but will travel to her office to do.
I've never worked in a clothing store, but luckily, they aren't looking for a professional at folding clothes.
I will say this though, I'd much rather fold clothes than wash them.
Here's to spending one of my days off of school at the office with my love.
I've never worked in a clothing store, but luckily, they aren't looking for a professional at folding clothes.
I will say this though, I'd much rather fold clothes than wash them.
Here's to spending one of my days off of school at the office with my love.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Heart Rate Matters
There have been lots of studies done on human bodily reactions to an increased heart rate.
Specifically, if your heart rate reaches about 100 bpm you start to lose your reasoning skills. At 140 bpm, you lose motor skills. Which is funny when you think about arguments.
A lot of times, when people are in an argument, their heart rate increases. The result of this is often a reduction in the ability to use reason, which is why emotional arguments are so hard to bring to a helpful solution.
We were talking about this in class tonight. We were trying to become aware of what kinds of things people say or do that we can start to feel our heart rate increase. It takes a lot of training to be able to function normally with an increased heart rate.
Two areas excel in this. Military and law enforcement training. We train people to do tasks (like put a gun together) just after their heart rate has been increased. We focus on giving people the ability to kill, and kill precisely and quickly with a high heart rate. When it comes to law enforcement, we hope to train officers to not just use motor skills, but to be able to reason well in situations where their heart rate is high.
The second area is sports. I've been trained how to do specific tasks and skills necessary in the game of soccer when my heart rate would want most motor skills to shut down. We are trained this way by intentionally bringing our heart rate to this point, and drilling repeatedly on how to do these skills in this state.
It is interesting really, that people are often trained to play, or kill in times of increased heart rate, but few of us have been trained with the ability to think and reason in times of great anxiety. How do we learn this skill? Should i get my heart rate up (by anxiety or by physical exercise) and then play Tetris (a game where i highly and quickly use reasoning)? Should I read scripture with a high heart rate so that it becomes habit to dwell on those words at those key times?
Why have we put such an importance on the need to kill and/or play, but have not trained all people to deal more rationally (at least use some reason) when we are having emotionally charged conflicts?
Can you notice things that get your heart rate rising? Hell? Abortion? Pre-marital sex? Homosexuality? Atheism? Traffic? Racism?
What can you learn by identifying these things?
Specifically, if your heart rate reaches about 100 bpm you start to lose your reasoning skills. At 140 bpm, you lose motor skills. Which is funny when you think about arguments.
A lot of times, when people are in an argument, their heart rate increases. The result of this is often a reduction in the ability to use reason, which is why emotional arguments are so hard to bring to a helpful solution.
We were talking about this in class tonight. We were trying to become aware of what kinds of things people say or do that we can start to feel our heart rate increase. It takes a lot of training to be able to function normally with an increased heart rate.
Two areas excel in this. Military and law enforcement training. We train people to do tasks (like put a gun together) just after their heart rate has been increased. We focus on giving people the ability to kill, and kill precisely and quickly with a high heart rate. When it comes to law enforcement, we hope to train officers to not just use motor skills, but to be able to reason well in situations where their heart rate is high.
The second area is sports. I've been trained how to do specific tasks and skills necessary in the game of soccer when my heart rate would want most motor skills to shut down. We are trained this way by intentionally bringing our heart rate to this point, and drilling repeatedly on how to do these skills in this state.
It is interesting really, that people are often trained to play, or kill in times of increased heart rate, but few of us have been trained with the ability to think and reason in times of great anxiety. How do we learn this skill? Should i get my heart rate up (by anxiety or by physical exercise) and then play Tetris (a game where i highly and quickly use reasoning)? Should I read scripture with a high heart rate so that it becomes habit to dwell on those words at those key times?
Why have we put such an importance on the need to kill and/or play, but have not trained all people to deal more rationally (at least use some reason) when we are having emotionally charged conflicts?
Can you notice things that get your heart rate rising? Hell? Abortion? Pre-marital sex? Homosexuality? Atheism? Traffic? Racism?
What can you learn by identifying these things?
Copyrights Are No Fun
I have to preach a sermon tomorrow night in my "use of media and arts in preaching" class.
I own a poster print of a painting that I'm going to be using as my main illustration tomorrow night. What I can't get, is a good digital picture of the painting. I was going to bring both the painting and a digital copy to post on the projector screen so that it could be seen more easily.
Lucky for me the class is small and the print I have will work. This specific artist has done a good job of making sure nobody gets a digital copy worth making their own prints out of.
Stupid Copyright protection.
I own a poster print of a painting that I'm going to be using as my main illustration tomorrow night. What I can't get, is a good digital picture of the painting. I was going to bring both the painting and a digital copy to post on the projector screen so that it could be seen more easily.
Lucky for me the class is small and the print I have will work. This specific artist has done a good job of making sure nobody gets a digital copy worth making their own prints out of.
Stupid Copyright protection.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Little People on Ice
The place that I ref indoor soccer provides me with entertainment in another fashion as well. It is coupled next to an ice arena. When I show up early, I often go to see what is going on in the ice arena.
My two favorites. 5 year olds playing hockey. Everyone falls. The person with the puck, misses the puck with the stick at some point and when they turn to regain control of the puck, they fall. It is entertaining because it happens to them all.
That was the second favorite. The first favorite, group figure skating (like danceline) with 6 year old girls. The spins make them fall. The high kicks make them fall, and better yet, they don't think to let go of the hand of the person next to them. When one person falls in the line, the wave starts from that point and they all end up on the ice. It's interesting to watch a line of 20 girls all fall at the same time because someone else somewhere did, and they don't think to let go of the hand of the person next to them that is falling.
These are more of my adventures in the soccer referee stage of my life. Hoping for many more.
My two favorites. 5 year olds playing hockey. Everyone falls. The person with the puck, misses the puck with the stick at some point and when they turn to regain control of the puck, they fall. It is entertaining because it happens to them all.
That was the second favorite. The first favorite, group figure skating (like danceline) with 6 year old girls. The spins make them fall. The high kicks make them fall, and better yet, they don't think to let go of the hand of the person next to them. When one person falls in the line, the wave starts from that point and they all end up on the ice. It's interesting to watch a line of 20 girls all fall at the same time because someone else somewhere did, and they don't think to let go of the hand of the person next to them that is falling.
These are more of my adventures in the soccer referee stage of my life. Hoping for many more.
Internship Intentions
I have to complete two internships as a part of my Masters studies at the Seminary. I'm getting pretty close to securing my first. In fact, the offer is on the table, I just need to clear it on the Seminary end.
It is highly likely that next year I will be a TA for Nate Ruch at North Central. Specifically, i'll be helping him grade, teach, and guide the students of his youth speaking class. The same class is taught both semesters so this would be a school year long internship to help develop the speaking habits of tomorrow's youth pastors, while also opening my eyes to the experience of work in the academic world.
I was excited to find out about this possibility as it seems to be a good fit for both me and the supervisor.
It is highly likely that next year I will be a TA for Nate Ruch at North Central. Specifically, i'll be helping him grade, teach, and guide the students of his youth speaking class. The same class is taught both semesters so this would be a school year long internship to help develop the speaking habits of tomorrow's youth pastors, while also opening my eyes to the experience of work in the academic world.
I was excited to find out about this possibility as it seems to be a good fit for both me and the supervisor.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Really, that quickly?
Our first soccer game has only 12 members on the roster (not enough got their photos in on time). 1 of those can't make the first game, which means we will have exactly a full team with no subs if everyone shows up.
I've already been commanded that my marathon training will have to be in full use as at this stage of the year, it is unlikely that most of the team would be in shape.
Here's to a lot of running on May 6th.
I've already been commanded that my marathon training will have to be in full use as at this stage of the year, it is unlikely that most of the team would be in shape.
Here's to a lot of running on May 6th.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Today's Best Accessory, Comfortable Shoes
It was time to head out for my run this afternoon. With the ipod and Nike combo, it is nice to be able to choose a new route each time I run and know that it keeps the distance before me.
Today, I set out for a 4 mile run. At the two mile point (where turning around would have left me finishing at home) I decided it was a nice day and I wanted to explore a new trail. I had plenty of time after the run to cool down so I figured I'd run 4 miles and then walk home from wherever I was.
Today was also the first time in a long time I got "lost." I ran from my house to the nearest trail that crossed the Mississippi river. (Along Highway 610 if you know the area) I then ran by the river until that trail dead ended when the water access was owned by homeowners and thus private property. The signs for the Mississippi River Walk and Bikeway pointed me into the neighborhood and zig-zagged me for a while on roads I had never been on before. After a while, I didn't even know what direction the river was from me. I wasn't near it anymore.
It took me quite a while to get home as I was determined not to turn around. All in all, my day was 14 miles. I ran 4, walked 3 or so, ran 2 more, walked another 2, ran 1 more, and finally walked the last 2. 14 miles. My legs definitely feel it.
Comfortable shoes were my life saver today. They are wonderful. My feet never started hurting.
I had plenty to think about on the adventure. Most importantly, that I was hungry. I walked in the house, to hear Jenny say "have you been gone this whole time?" (I told her around 4 that I was going on a run, she was still at work at that time) My response was, "have you eaten yet? NO? Good, we're going to Fuddruckers and you are driving."
It was quite the afternoon.
Today, I set out for a 4 mile run. At the two mile point (where turning around would have left me finishing at home) I decided it was a nice day and I wanted to explore a new trail. I had plenty of time after the run to cool down so I figured I'd run 4 miles and then walk home from wherever I was.
Today was also the first time in a long time I got "lost." I ran from my house to the nearest trail that crossed the Mississippi river. (Along Highway 610 if you know the area) I then ran by the river until that trail dead ended when the water access was owned by homeowners and thus private property. The signs for the Mississippi River Walk and Bikeway pointed me into the neighborhood and zig-zagged me for a while on roads I had never been on before. After a while, I didn't even know what direction the river was from me. I wasn't near it anymore.
It took me quite a while to get home as I was determined not to turn around. All in all, my day was 14 miles. I ran 4, walked 3 or so, ran 2 more, walked another 2, ran 1 more, and finally walked the last 2. 14 miles. My legs definitely feel it.
Comfortable shoes were my life saver today. They are wonderful. My feet never started hurting.
I had plenty to think about on the adventure. Most importantly, that I was hungry. I walked in the house, to hear Jenny say "have you been gone this whole time?" (I told her around 4 that I was going on a run, she was still at work at that time) My response was, "have you eaten yet? NO? Good, we're going to Fuddruckers and you are driving."
It was quite the afternoon.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
"Agreed!" (a guest blogger edition)
Alright, now the world knows....I'm wierd. Nate has known it for a long time (and my parents for even longer), but that is not what we agreed upon. This past weekend Nate received some much unwanted attention for the relaxation he got while I was able to get some much wanted time alone while also completing a project I have talked about since we bought this house. I'm weird, I like to paint. Most people, including Nate, think of it as a chore, a job, work to be done for the sake of the final project and nothing more. But I rather enjoy it. I find it relaxing, and yes even fun. I enjoy the process of dipping the brush and bringing it gently, though firmly, across the wall. I enjoy seeing the progress along the way as a room is transformed into a new space to live. I'm weird.
Before beginning this project we both decided that Nate would help prepare by sanding, taping and cleaning as needed (though this is still not what we came to agree upon). This was a huge help to me and I appreciate it greatly. I painted the cupboards first, so half way through it was time to retape the room so I could paint the walls. As carefully as I could, I peeled the tape from the walls and securely reapplied fresh tape to the newly painted white areas. At the end of it all I did not tape as securely as I had originally thought. In pulling it off I saw splotches of blue that made its way just under the edge of the tape and onto my fresh white paint.
After a short conversation about this I looked at Nate and said, "Agreed! You are all time taper and I am all time painter." For whatever reason, I can make a straight line across a wall at the ceiling and never get paint on the ceiling. But Nate can tape a secure line on a door frame so I don't paint on it.
Well, without further adieu.....
Before beginning this project we both decided that Nate would help prepare by sanding, taping and cleaning as needed (though this is still not what we came to agree upon). This was a huge help to me and I appreciate it greatly. I painted the cupboards first, so half way through it was time to retape the room so I could paint the walls. As carefully as I could, I peeled the tape from the walls and securely reapplied fresh tape to the newly painted white areas. At the end of it all I did not tape as securely as I had originally thought. In pulling it off I saw splotches of blue that made its way just under the edge of the tape and onto my fresh white paint.
After a short conversation about this I looked at Nate and said, "Agreed! You are all time taper and I am all time painter." For whatever reason, I can make a straight line across a wall at the ceiling and never get paint on the ceiling. But Nate can tape a secure line on a door frame so I don't paint on it.
Well, without further adieu.....
Before:
After:
Monday, April 16, 2007
Another Lesson In Questions
This is a list of questions that was used in a sermon but I am taking from a book. It did not originate with me, but this list was used to help people evaluate things about their spirituality. The person who made this list hoped that (actually in the sermon he supplied it and orchestrated it) people would actually take the time to write down the answers to these questions, not just think about them.
What is frustrating me right now?
I have been frustrated recently with people putting me in a box. That people only think I am worth the sum of my gifts. That my ability to communicate or explain things I have studied is all the worth I have. I'm frustrated, because I'm greatly honored and excited for the moments I get to use those gifts (please don't stop asking me questions) but that many people now only use me as a resource for those things.
What am I angry about?
I'm angry about people who represent my God and Savior by name, but don't accurately portray His character. I realize we all give flawed images of God, but some who teach things contrary to the heart of God and contrary to His Word makes me angry. I'm angry that they turn so many people off to the best thing out there for them.
What am I scared of?
I'm scared that someday I will actually have to deal with the things I feel I've been prepared to deal with. I'm scared that the resources I've relied upon in the past won't always prove successful. I'm scared that I won't become who I need to become.
What am I dreading?
I'm dreading the time where prostate exams become a normal part of life. I'm dreading the time where I have to relate with people only because death has happened and we are at the same funeral. I'm dreading the time when I actually have to present my cherished book manuscript (it isn't written yet) to an editor to get it thrashed over and changed.
What am I anxious about?
I have lots of anxiety about doing internships for Seminary.
What concerns me?
I'm concerned by injustice. There is so much of it, it is hard to know what role I can play. I've shared that Jenny and I are looking for a cause to support. It is so hard to narrow it down. I'm concerned that I'll sit by for to long before engaging in work that supports justice across this world, whatever that looks like.
What is stressing me right now, the smallest thing that I don't want to write down because it seems so dumb but it actually is stressing me?
The smallest, little, insignificant thing that is stressing me out right now, that seems silly to write down is an issue of understanding. I keep getting addressed awkwardly because I did not help Jenny paint the kitchen. I'm stressed that the implication I get from people's comments is that I'm not being a good husband. Jenny has, and might again respond that I helped in all the areas she wanted help.
What am I looking forward to?
My brother's wedding. He's great at making life about other people a lot of the time. He is willing to throw himself under the bus, or to go out of his way to appease other people. He'll make a great husband.
Today, tomorrow, this year?
Today, I'm looking forward to playing Tetris and listening to sermons to wind down my night (I'm such a nerd). Tomorrow, I'm looking forward to my small group meeting, it's one of the times of the week I feel most "healthy" even when things in life aren't real good. This year, I'm looking forward to my wife's smile. She does the best things. She is the best. I'm looking forward to this year with her, no matter what it brings in the rest of life, the journey with her is of far greater importance, and her presence will again make this year better than it would have ever been without her.
What is frustrating me right now?
I have been frustrated recently with people putting me in a box. That people only think I am worth the sum of my gifts. That my ability to communicate or explain things I have studied is all the worth I have. I'm frustrated, because I'm greatly honored and excited for the moments I get to use those gifts (please don't stop asking me questions) but that many people now only use me as a resource for those things.
What am I angry about?
I'm angry about people who represent my God and Savior by name, but don't accurately portray His character. I realize we all give flawed images of God, but some who teach things contrary to the heart of God and contrary to His Word makes me angry. I'm angry that they turn so many people off to the best thing out there for them.
What am I scared of?
I'm scared that someday I will actually have to deal with the things I feel I've been prepared to deal with. I'm scared that the resources I've relied upon in the past won't always prove successful. I'm scared that I won't become who I need to become.
What am I dreading?
I'm dreading the time where prostate exams become a normal part of life. I'm dreading the time where I have to relate with people only because death has happened and we are at the same funeral. I'm dreading the time when I actually have to present my cherished book manuscript (it isn't written yet) to an editor to get it thrashed over and changed.
What am I anxious about?
I have lots of anxiety about doing internships for Seminary.
What concerns me?
I'm concerned by injustice. There is so much of it, it is hard to know what role I can play. I've shared that Jenny and I are looking for a cause to support. It is so hard to narrow it down. I'm concerned that I'll sit by for to long before engaging in work that supports justice across this world, whatever that looks like.
What is stressing me right now, the smallest thing that I don't want to write down because it seems so dumb but it actually is stressing me?
The smallest, little, insignificant thing that is stressing me out right now, that seems silly to write down is an issue of understanding. I keep getting addressed awkwardly because I did not help Jenny paint the kitchen. I'm stressed that the implication I get from people's comments is that I'm not being a good husband. Jenny has, and might again respond that I helped in all the areas she wanted help.
What am I looking forward to?
My brother's wedding. He's great at making life about other people a lot of the time. He is willing to throw himself under the bus, or to go out of his way to appease other people. He'll make a great husband.
Today, tomorrow, this year?
Today, I'm looking forward to playing Tetris and listening to sermons to wind down my night (I'm such a nerd). Tomorrow, I'm looking forward to my small group meeting, it's one of the times of the week I feel most "healthy" even when things in life aren't real good. This year, I'm looking forward to my wife's smile. She does the best things. She is the best. I'm looking forward to this year with her, no matter what it brings in the rest of life, the journey with her is of far greater importance, and her presence will again make this year better than it would have ever been without her.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Get Out and Enjoy the Weather
I made it out for 9 holes of golf today. Then an hour and a half of outdoor soccer.
Follow that with grilling out for dinner.
The night cap was 2 hours of indoor soccer.
I'm exhausted.
I loved it.
I got home and my kitchen was a different color. Soon the second coat will go on and I'll post some before and after pictures for everyone to see what a lovely job Jenny has done with the kitchen.
Take this time to enjoy the weather before spring leaves us again.
Follow that with grilling out for dinner.
The night cap was 2 hours of indoor soccer.
I'm exhausted.
I loved it.
I got home and my kitchen was a different color. Soon the second coat will go on and I'll post some before and after pictures for everyone to see what a lovely job Jenny has done with the kitchen.
Take this time to enjoy the weather before spring leaves us again.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Getting Ready for Summer
It was time to get myself ready for some of my summer entertainment this year.
10 packs of electrical tape ready for taping during the soccer season. I supply for 4 of us or so.
1 new golf club for the golf bag. A Nike, 56 degree wedge steel shaft with a stiff flex.
Both things were a good deal.
Hopefully tomorrow, i'll get to enjoy something of both sports, though i don't plan on using the tape.
Jenny is making good progress on the kitchen. I was only sent to the grocery once today. 4 packages of vanilla pudding, a dozen eggs, and Raspberry Gingerale.
You never know what we'll want from the grocery store.
10 packs of electrical tape ready for taping during the soccer season. I supply for 4 of us or so.
1 new golf club for the golf bag. A Nike, 56 degree wedge steel shaft with a stiff flex.
Both things were a good deal.
Hopefully tomorrow, i'll get to enjoy something of both sports, though i don't plan on using the tape.
Jenny is making good progress on the kitchen. I was only sent to the grocery once today. 4 packages of vanilla pudding, a dozen eggs, and Raspberry Gingerale.
You never know what we'll want from the grocery store.
Friday, April 13, 2007
The Kitchen's Weekend
Jenny is painting our kitchen this weekend. I helped tape. I wiped down a wall during a commercial break. I make the runs to the grocery store for the cravings.
So far the cravings have only been mine.
Powdered sugar doughnut holes and goldfish crackers.
I hate painting. Jenny doesn't mind it. Marriage is wonderful.
I'll post pictures of the kitchen sometime after we are done.
So far the cravings have only been mine.
Powdered sugar doughnut holes and goldfish crackers.
I hate painting. Jenny doesn't mind it. Marriage is wonderful.
I'll post pictures of the kitchen sometime after we are done.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Longest Post Ever
Fortunately, this doesn't mean that it will take up the most space, though I can't say that definitively right now. It is the longest in the amount of time it will take me to compose.
I was thinking earlier today (something that gets me in trouble often) that lots of questions get asked during sermons that are rhetorical, but are asked hoping the hearers will actually take the time to think about. I wondered what it would look like to actually answer every question asked in a sermon.
So I'm going to. Here is the project. I'm going to listen to a sermon I haven't heard before (titled "Cross Shaped Devotion" by Rick McKinley given at his church on 10/1/06. I'm going to then write down and, after the sermon is over, answer every question he asks during this sermon. To be fair to all questions, I'll answer everything asked, whether meant for the audience or not. It is a 35:07 long sermon so this post's written length will depend on the amount of questions he asks in it. Here's to my listening and responding skills.
Time to answer: 22 Questions
More guidelines, some of the questions were questions that the text he was using actually asked, I'll give the texts answers. Some of the questions, he then answers immediately, I'll note his answer. Some of the questions require more context, you'll find that in parenthesis.
“Is there any other way to save and reconcile the world and if there is can we do it that way; yet not my will but yours be done?”
This is a paraphrase of biblical text which God at least answers that his will is for "that way" (Jesus dying on the cross) to happen.
“What would it look like to bring the cross back to the center of our devotion?”
I was thinking, I don't know, I thought this is why I am listening to your sermon. In seriousness, I was curious as to how he would define both cross and devotion.
“Is it actually optional?”
I assumed he wanted an emphatic "no" answer, but again I wanted to hear him define his picture before I would answer confidently.
“What does it mean to worship Jesus with the cross at the center of our lives?”
I think that it likely means different things to everyone who hears this question. Some of these differences I think are beautiful and necessary as we all live different lives, but some of these differences are the result of a lack of biblical understanding or skewed biblical interpretation, which I think makes them ugly.
“The lines get longer because that is some kind of crazy magic trick, right?”
This was part of a joke where we had the ability to heal like Jesus did. Not really a question intended to be even thought about.
“Hey you want some more?” (disciples feeding people)
Another joke question as if we were the disciples handing out the food Jesus is multiplying.
“Who do people say that I am?”
Asked in Luke 9. Answered this way: "They answered and said, 'John the Baptist, and others say Elijah; but others, that one of the prophets of old has risen again.' "
“But what about you, who do you, say that I am?”
Further in Luke 9. "And Peter answered and said, 'The Christ of God.' "
“What do you think?” (asked to you in a spiritual conversation at work)
Immediately answered for us that "we follow Jesus and believe He is the one and only God"
“Now how does that conversation feel?” (referencing above)
Depends on your relationship with people at your work. Never was a problem for me working at the church with other pastors :)
“Isn’t that a bummer?” (That the deny yourself thing is daily and not just one time)
That isn't how I look at it. It is hard. But bummer puts a connotation that I wish it was the other way. I'm sure it is healthier for me to deny myself everyday instead of getting an easy ride for doing it once.
“So what then are we dying to?”
Simple immediate answer, ourselves. Specific to me, I'm dying to the need to be successful. Dying to the desire for more. Dying to selfishness, greed and pride.
“What does your cross look like, what is it shaped by?”
A very abstract question written in "Christianese" that I don't always find helpful. My cross looks like my burdens. It is shaped by the sin in my life.
“What is the shape of your cross right now?”
Same as what I'm dying to. It is shaped like pride, success, selfishness and greed.
“What good is it for a man to gain the whole world and yet lose or forfeit his very self?”
Asked in text by Jesus. Implied answer is that it is ZERO good.
“What good would it be if you had arms full of everything, all that you wanted, but at the end of the story you lost your soul, you lost your self? What good would that be?”
That would be ZERO good for me. It would even be negative good (is that possible) because I know that my life impacts others and if I made these poor choices I fear that I would cause others to, or at least not convince others to choose a more healthy way.
“If that day was today (that you were standing before Jesus) what are the things you would be ashamed of?”
The times I choose me instead of Him. The times that I "set my cross down" for a little while to pick it back up when it is more convenient. Sin.
“What are the things that are currently part of your story do you know would not be good to bring there?”
Again, pride, greed, selfishness, and desire for success.
“What kept him going?” (Jesus carrying his cross)
Immediately answered "That resurrection was coming."
“What is normative for you; is what is normal for you the fact that you are carrying a cross and being shaped by it?”
It is pretty normal for me to be shaped by this. I try to deny myself. I think about it a lot. Though I fail consistently, I know I am being shaped.
“How do we live this out?”
Imperfectly with all the effort we have.
“How do we do this together?”
Answered immediately by quoting Hebrews 12
"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles u, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Nate's Concluding Thoughts:
I hate Christianese. Taking the time to identify and answer every question being asked forced me to lose track in the sermon multiple times, good thing i could pause and rewind. The questions that were truly important were asked multiple times, in multiple ways, which is a good speaking technique affirmed in myself by trying this exercise.
Lastly, I don't, I repeat don't, need another way to criticize sermons.
I was thinking earlier today (something that gets me in trouble often) that lots of questions get asked during sermons that are rhetorical, but are asked hoping the hearers will actually take the time to think about. I wondered what it would look like to actually answer every question asked in a sermon.
So I'm going to. Here is the project. I'm going to listen to a sermon I haven't heard before (titled "Cross Shaped Devotion" by Rick McKinley given at his church on 10/1/06. I'm going to then write down and, after the sermon is over, answer every question he asks during this sermon. To be fair to all questions, I'll answer everything asked, whether meant for the audience or not. It is a 35:07 long sermon so this post's written length will depend on the amount of questions he asks in it. Here's to my listening and responding skills.
Time to answer: 22 Questions
More guidelines, some of the questions were questions that the text he was using actually asked, I'll give the texts answers. Some of the questions, he then answers immediately, I'll note his answer. Some of the questions require more context, you'll find that in parenthesis.
“Is there any other way to save and reconcile the world and if there is can we do it that way; yet not my will but yours be done?”
This is a paraphrase of biblical text which God at least answers that his will is for "that way" (Jesus dying on the cross) to happen.
“What would it look like to bring the cross back to the center of our devotion?”
I was thinking, I don't know, I thought this is why I am listening to your sermon. In seriousness, I was curious as to how he would define both cross and devotion.
“Is it actually optional?”
I assumed he wanted an emphatic "no" answer, but again I wanted to hear him define his picture before I would answer confidently.
“What does it mean to worship Jesus with the cross at the center of our lives?”
I think that it likely means different things to everyone who hears this question. Some of these differences I think are beautiful and necessary as we all live different lives, but some of these differences are the result of a lack of biblical understanding or skewed biblical interpretation, which I think makes them ugly.
“The lines get longer because that is some kind of crazy magic trick, right?”
This was part of a joke where we had the ability to heal like Jesus did. Not really a question intended to be even thought about.
“Hey you want some more?” (disciples feeding people)
Another joke question as if we were the disciples handing out the food Jesus is multiplying.
“Who do people say that I am?”
Asked in Luke 9. Answered this way: "They answered and said, 'John the Baptist, and others say Elijah; but others, that one of the prophets of old has risen again.' "
“But what about you, who do you, say that I am?”
Further in Luke 9. "And Peter answered and said, 'The Christ of God.' "
“What do you think?” (asked to you in a spiritual conversation at work)
Immediately answered for us that "we follow Jesus and believe He is the one and only God"
“Now how does that conversation feel?” (referencing above)
Depends on your relationship with people at your work. Never was a problem for me working at the church with other pastors :)
“Isn’t that a bummer?” (That the deny yourself thing is daily and not just one time)
That isn't how I look at it. It is hard. But bummer puts a connotation that I wish it was the other way. I'm sure it is healthier for me to deny myself everyday instead of getting an easy ride for doing it once.
“So what then are we dying to?”
Simple immediate answer, ourselves. Specific to me, I'm dying to the need to be successful. Dying to the desire for more. Dying to selfishness, greed and pride.
“What does your cross look like, what is it shaped by?”
A very abstract question written in "Christianese" that I don't always find helpful. My cross looks like my burdens. It is shaped by the sin in my life.
“What is the shape of your cross right now?”
Same as what I'm dying to. It is shaped like pride, success, selfishness and greed.
“What good is it for a man to gain the whole world and yet lose or forfeit his very self?”
Asked in text by Jesus. Implied answer is that it is ZERO good.
“What good would it be if you had arms full of everything, all that you wanted, but at the end of the story you lost your soul, you lost your self? What good would that be?”
That would be ZERO good for me. It would even be negative good (is that possible) because I know that my life impacts others and if I made these poor choices I fear that I would cause others to, or at least not convince others to choose a more healthy way.
“If that day was today (that you were standing before Jesus) what are the things you would be ashamed of?”
The times I choose me instead of Him. The times that I "set my cross down" for a little while to pick it back up when it is more convenient. Sin.
“What are the things that are currently part of your story do you know would not be good to bring there?”
Again, pride, greed, selfishness, and desire for success.
“What kept him going?” (Jesus carrying his cross)
Immediately answered "That resurrection was coming."
“What is normative for you; is what is normal for you the fact that you are carrying a cross and being shaped by it?”
It is pretty normal for me to be shaped by this. I try to deny myself. I think about it a lot. Though I fail consistently, I know I am being shaped.
“How do we live this out?”
Imperfectly with all the effort we have.
“How do we do this together?”
Answered immediately by quoting Hebrews 12
"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles u, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Nate's Concluding Thoughts:
I hate Christianese. Taking the time to identify and answer every question being asked forced me to lose track in the sermon multiple times, good thing i could pause and rewind. The questions that were truly important were asked multiple times, in multiple ways, which is a good speaking technique affirmed in myself by trying this exercise.
Lastly, I don't, I repeat don't, need another way to criticize sermons.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Favorite Bible Verse?
Do any of you have a favorite Bible verse? What reason is it your favorite?
I've been partial to Hebrews 10:39 since my first year being an RA at North Central. It was part of our team theme but has stuck with most of us who served that year.
"We are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed but of those who believe and are saved."
What is yours? Why?
I've been partial to Hebrews 10:39 since my first year being an RA at North Central. It was part of our team theme but has stuck with most of us who served that year.
"We are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed but of those who believe and are saved."
What is yours? Why?
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
New Favorite Word
I was reading my Bible today and I found my new favorite word in the Bible. For a long time, my favorite word in the entire Bible has been the word "Sychar." It became the word I used to name characters in computer games I played, and generally became my online user name for lots of websites. "Sychar" is a place in the Bible. Specifically it is the place where Jesus meets the women at the well. I don't know if there is an original language meaning to the place (most of the places do have meanings) but I defined it myself as being "from doubt to belief" because of Jesus' conversation with the women there.
Today, I found a new favorite word. It again is a name, but this time is a name of people. Yes, of people. Not of one person, but actually of two brothers. Two of the disciples are brothers, James and John, they are the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus gave them a new name. Together they are known as my new favorite word in the Bible. "Boanerges"
"Boanerges" as the Bible writes it means "Sons of Thunder." I don't know why this stuck out to me so much, just like I don't know why I originally picked "Sychar" but "Boanerges" is now on the top of my list, just above "Sychar."
You can find it in Mark 3:17
Today, I found a new favorite word. It again is a name, but this time is a name of people. Yes, of people. Not of one person, but actually of two brothers. Two of the disciples are brothers, James and John, they are the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus gave them a new name. Together they are known as my new favorite word in the Bible. "Boanerges"
"Boanerges" as the Bible writes it means "Sons of Thunder." I don't know why this stuck out to me so much, just like I don't know why I originally picked "Sychar" but "Boanerges" is now on the top of my list, just above "Sychar."
You can find it in Mark 3:17
My realization of the day
You aren't going to be able to be compassionate if you are worried about making people happy.
It took me 26 years to come to this realization. People pleasing is not anywhere close to proper compassion. In fact, being compassionate will often make many people upset with you. Compassion rarely shows equality, compassion rarely shows fairness.
Lucky for us, our God is compassionate instead of fair.
The challenge for me is to choose compassion over people pleasing. To choose compassion over selfishness. To choose compassion as a lifestyle.
It took me 26 years to come to this realization. People pleasing is not anywhere close to proper compassion. In fact, being compassionate will often make many people upset with you. Compassion rarely shows equality, compassion rarely shows fairness.
Lucky for us, our God is compassionate instead of fair.
The challenge for me is to choose compassion over people pleasing. To choose compassion over selfishness. To choose compassion as a lifestyle.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
More "In Depth"
Being in a Masters program, I often struggle with the balance between finding more biblical knowledge and the practice of actually living a more biblical lifestyle.
Here is my journal quote from after class one day last week...
"People often want to go more 'in depth' with God, which usually means they want to know more. The unfortunate truth is that they usually already know more than they are willing to do. They value their knowledge far more than they value their practice."
I know this is a trap I fall into occasionally. I hope, that my awareness of this truth in my life will help me to reverse the outcomes.
Here is my journal quote from after class one day last week...
"People often want to go more 'in depth' with God, which usually means they want to know more. The unfortunate truth is that they usually already know more than they are willing to do. They value their knowledge far more than they value their practice."
I know this is a trap I fall into occasionally. I hope, that my awareness of this truth in my life will help me to reverse the outcomes.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
It Happened
Luke 24
The Resurrection
1On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' " 8Then they remembered his words.
9When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. 10It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. 12Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
The Resurrection
1On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' " 8Then they remembered his words.
9When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. 10It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. 12Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Is It Worth It?
I like daylight savings time. I like enjoying the outdoors. I like the sunlight. Therefore, I was for DST being moved forward.
However, having weeks of the 20s and 30s to end March and start April makes me not like it.
It isn't fun to get out of afternoon classes and see how sunny it is, to know that I can't enjoy it. This year, I really don't think I would have minded if we had to wait for the daylight to be saved. I haven't gotten to use any of it anyway.
The one day that did get in the 80s I had evening classes so I got to use it the same as if DST hadn't happened yet.
Boo cold weather in Spring.
However, having weeks of the 20s and 30s to end March and start April makes me not like it.
It isn't fun to get out of afternoon classes and see how sunny it is, to know that I can't enjoy it. This year, I really don't think I would have minded if we had to wait for the daylight to be saved. I haven't gotten to use any of it anyway.
The one day that did get in the 80s I had evening classes so I got to use it the same as if DST hadn't happened yet.
Boo cold weather in Spring.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Lost Hope
Today I found out that Kentucky's new basketball coach will not be Billy Donovan. He was the only person I actually hoped would take the job, though I never was confident that he would.
I don't even know who else Kentucky is looking at, I guess i'll have to ask my brother for that information.
Maybe we will all be lucky enough that he will post his inside information as a comment here.
I don't even know who else Kentucky is looking at, I guess i'll have to ask my brother for that information.
Maybe we will all be lucky enough that he will post his inside information as a comment here.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Super Insurance Program
I have always been excited about being a member of USAA for my auto insurance. I'm eligible because of my father's military service, but have never been able to find a better company.
This week, when we finally called to change Jenny's status to wife instead of fiance (we waited until her social security and driver's license were changed) we were excited to find out about more savings we got for that change.
This is the lowest i've ever had a car insurance bill, and it covers both of us. It's amazing.
Random note to brother: get that name change stuff done quick, the savings on car insurance is well worth it.
This week, when we finally called to change Jenny's status to wife instead of fiance (we waited until her social security and driver's license were changed) we were excited to find out about more savings we got for that change.
This is the lowest i've ever had a car insurance bill, and it covers both of us. It's amazing.
Random note to brother: get that name change stuff done quick, the savings on car insurance is well worth it.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
It Used to Matter
It used to matter to me that I was aware of the current popular video games. It used to matter to me that I was good at them. It used to matter to me that my car was faster than my friends cars. It used to matter to me that I won every soccer game I played. It used to matter to me that my paycheck was bigger than my needs.
It used to matter to me that people remember my name. It used to matter to me that people thought I had good things to say. It used to be important that people like me.
It used to matter to me that my life look good on the outside. It used to matter to me that I could portray it was good on the inside. It used to matter to me to build self-worth, however i defined that at the time.
It used to matter to me that i was good at cards. It used to matter to me to get good grades (okay, that one didn't ever really matter a lot). It used to matter that I have the right thing to say at the right time. It used to matter that people looked to me as a leader.
It used to matter to me that i had potential. It used to matter to me that i attain success. It used to matter to me to make myself into something.
Those things don't matter much to me anymore. I haven't spent much time thinking about any of those things in a long time.
I instead, find my worth in who God says I am, find my success in my obedience to His commands and His will. I find my dreams coming from Him, my desires dependent upon Him, my needs being met by Him.
I'd rather think about Him than about me. I'd rather you think about Him than about me. I'd rather you have a high view of Him than of me. I used to matter, to me. Instead now, i find that I matter to God. That I can achieve because of Him, not because of me.
God matters. Other's matter. I don't matter. What matters about me is that I become all God wants me to be. That is my job. The funniest thing i find about it, is that most of who I need to become relates in depth into showing other people that I don't matter, but that they do.
It used to matter to me that people remember my name. It used to matter to me that people thought I had good things to say. It used to be important that people like me.
It used to matter to me that my life look good on the outside. It used to matter to me that I could portray it was good on the inside. It used to matter to me to build self-worth, however i defined that at the time.
It used to matter to me that i was good at cards. It used to matter to me to get good grades (okay, that one didn't ever really matter a lot). It used to matter that I have the right thing to say at the right time. It used to matter that people looked to me as a leader.
It used to matter to me that i had potential. It used to matter to me that i attain success. It used to matter to me to make myself into something.
Those things don't matter much to me anymore. I haven't spent much time thinking about any of those things in a long time.
I instead, find my worth in who God says I am, find my success in my obedience to His commands and His will. I find my dreams coming from Him, my desires dependent upon Him, my needs being met by Him.
I'd rather think about Him than about me. I'd rather you think about Him than about me. I'd rather you have a high view of Him than of me. I used to matter, to me. Instead now, i find that I matter to God. That I can achieve because of Him, not because of me.
God matters. Other's matter. I don't matter. What matters about me is that I become all God wants me to be. That is my job. The funniest thing i find about it, is that most of who I need to become relates in depth into showing other people that I don't matter, but that they do.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Proclaiming or Shouting?
With my eyes still tuned towards the religious significance of this holy week, I haven't been able to help myself from consistently thinking about the last week of Jesus life. Starting on Sunday with the triumphal entry and concluding with his resurrection.
Today specifically I was thinking about the crowds actions towards Jesus, which begin with him entering Jerusalem and people Proclaiming "Hosannas" as he rides through, and then ends with crowds shouting "crucify Him" as he is on trial in front of Pilate.
There are scholars who both do and don't think that these crowds could have been made of the same people. I have not done that research, nor do i find it important for my point.
My point is this, our lives, my life is often choosing one of these two actions, either proclaiming Hosanna, or shouting crucify Him.
What about you?
Do you chose not to live the life you know Christ wants from you? Do you decide that the way this world works is better than the way God wants this world to look? Are you more comfortable following society, politics, Hollywood, your boss, even your church than you are in following God? Who have you made king in your life?
Jesus asks us to live a life that loves God and loves our neighbors (even our enemies). Have you decided instead that you will ignore God and your neighbors to further yourself? That your love only need extend to your family, or your friends? That God's reign in your life need be something only between you and him? Is your life shouting "crucify him" i've got a way to live that is better than having him as a king. He claims kingship over my life, but i'd rather live with him dead.
Or....
Is your life one that gladly acknowledges who Christ is? That he is King. That he is Lord. That he is God. He is worthy of every thought, deed, and action that he has requested. My enemies are worthy of every thought, and action that he has commanded.
It is often easy for me to look at society, the healthier parts of it and acknowledge what my wife is worthy of from me (sacrifice and love even past the point of death to myself). Unfortunately, even the "healthy" (read morally mature) part of society does not satisfy in instructing a life that is anywhere close to what Christ commanded, and exemplified. It requires so much more than going with the flow. It requires a lot more than just being part of the crowd. It requires me using my unique voice to shout out that Christ is King, and to believe it a week later, when faced with a crowd that disagrees. It requires that my life be lined up with his teachings, that my actions point to the fact that his reign and kingship is more important to me than my own comfort. It requires my sacrifice and love even past the point of death to myself.
Today specifically I was thinking about the crowds actions towards Jesus, which begin with him entering Jerusalem and people Proclaiming "Hosannas" as he rides through, and then ends with crowds shouting "crucify Him" as he is on trial in front of Pilate.
There are scholars who both do and don't think that these crowds could have been made of the same people. I have not done that research, nor do i find it important for my point.
My point is this, our lives, my life is often choosing one of these two actions, either proclaiming Hosanna, or shouting crucify Him.
What about you?
Do you chose not to live the life you know Christ wants from you? Do you decide that the way this world works is better than the way God wants this world to look? Are you more comfortable following society, politics, Hollywood, your boss, even your church than you are in following God? Who have you made king in your life?
Jesus asks us to live a life that loves God and loves our neighbors (even our enemies). Have you decided instead that you will ignore God and your neighbors to further yourself? That your love only need extend to your family, or your friends? That God's reign in your life need be something only between you and him? Is your life shouting "crucify him" i've got a way to live that is better than having him as a king. He claims kingship over my life, but i'd rather live with him dead.
Or....
Is your life one that gladly acknowledges who Christ is? That he is King. That he is Lord. That he is God. He is worthy of every thought, deed, and action that he has requested. My enemies are worthy of every thought, and action that he has commanded.
It is often easy for me to look at society, the healthier parts of it and acknowledge what my wife is worthy of from me (sacrifice and love even past the point of death to myself). Unfortunately, even the "healthy" (read morally mature) part of society does not satisfy in instructing a life that is anywhere close to what Christ commanded, and exemplified. It requires so much more than going with the flow. It requires a lot more than just being part of the crowd. It requires me using my unique voice to shout out that Christ is King, and to believe it a week later, when faced with a crowd that disagrees. It requires that my life be lined up with his teachings, that my actions point to the fact that his reign and kingship is more important to me than my own comfort. It requires my sacrifice and love even past the point of death to myself.
More Easter
Yesterday I wrote about the resurrection season.
Today, it's the American Easter Season.
Easter Eggs. I like them. I like them most if they are creative. This picture takes the cake.
Today, it's the American Easter Season.
Easter Eggs. I like them. I like them most if they are creative. This picture takes the cake.
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