Thursday, February 15, 2007
Monday, February 12, 2007
Brianna's Baptism
Just in case you were getting worried that my life is all about basketball, I figured I would let you know some other news happening! My good friend Brianna Huffman (the youngest member of the Huffman clan), received Jesus as her savior this past October, and took a step of obedience to Jesus by getting baptised yesterday at Chestnut Ridge Church.
It's been great watching Brianna, Ryan, and Brett (the Huffman's) grow in their faith here at WVU. And even though Mountaineer Basketball is really exciting, it's even more exciting to see people come into the family of the Kingdom of Jesus, and embrace the beautiful way of the Messiah.
For me, it is truly the greatest thrill to see people come to find hope, salvation, and a better way of living through trusting Jesus.
I think it was a great day of celebration for the entire Huffman family, and I just appreciate the way each one of them have encouraged and inspired me in my own relationship with Jesus.
I hope this picture can be an encouragement to you as you go about your day!
It's been great watching Brianna, Ryan, and Brett (the Huffman's) grow in their faith here at WVU. And even though Mountaineer Basketball is really exciting, it's even more exciting to see people come into the family of the Kingdom of Jesus, and embrace the beautiful way of the Messiah.
For me, it is truly the greatest thrill to see people come to find hope, salvation, and a better way of living through trusting Jesus.
I think it was a great day of celebration for the entire Huffman family, and I just appreciate the way each one of them have encouraged and inspired me in my own relationship with Jesus.
I hope this picture can be an encouragement to you as you go about your day!
Upset!!!
If this is the first news you have heard about this, then you need to crawl out from under the rock where you've been living. We beat UCLA Saturday, and I was there--as were several thousand other mountaineer fans!!! This is probably the biggest upset in WVU history, and, the entire game was exciting.
What made this game better for me was the fact that I could enjoy it with my dad and brother in law. A win with family is even better than just a win. (don't get me wrong--a win against the #2 team in the country is great no matter how you slice it!)
In the words of Tony Caridi, "It's a great day to be a Mountaineer wherever you may be!!!" And this evening, I will be in Georgetown hopefully watching the mountaineers beat the hoyas (whatever a hoya is?). Be sure to look for me on TV with a few of my DC friends.
What made this game better for me was the fact that I could enjoy it with my dad and brother in law. A win with family is even better than just a win. (don't get me wrong--a win against the #2 team in the country is great no matter how you slice it!)
In the words of Tony Caridi, "It's a great day to be a Mountaineer wherever you may be!!!" And this evening, I will be in Georgetown hopefully watching the mountaineers beat the hoyas (whatever a hoya is?). Be sure to look for me on TV with a few of my DC friends.
Rousing Words
Saturday, I went to the UCLA game with my dad and brother in law. For the last two years, my dad and I have made a habit of sitting in the student section and enjoying the home games together. As my degree comes to an end, this will probably be one of the benefits I miss the most.
Before the game though, I was thoroughly impressed. Coach John Beilein came over to the student section and shared his heart with the students. He encouraged students to be supportive and cheer loudly, but not to indulge in some of the disrespectful cheers and behaviors of a few students that had emerged over the last few home games. He told the students that they were smarter than some of the phrases that were coming out of their mouths, and to consider the fact that somebody's grandma was over in another section, and another person's little sister was on the other side of the colisseum. He also shared the fact that we would be on national television, and it might affect future appearances if we don't show the nation today that we are a class act.
I appreciated his words. Sometimes folks get a little wound up, and say/do some things that are inappropriate, and I can't think of a more eloquent and respectul way to communicate with the students than the way Coach Beilein went about it. He's a class act through and through, and I really appreciate what he has done for the reputation of the university, the team, and the fans.
Before the game though, I was thoroughly impressed. Coach John Beilein came over to the student section and shared his heart with the students. He encouraged students to be supportive and cheer loudly, but not to indulge in some of the disrespectful cheers and behaviors of a few students that had emerged over the last few home games. He told the students that they were smarter than some of the phrases that were coming out of their mouths, and to consider the fact that somebody's grandma was over in another section, and another person's little sister was on the other side of the colisseum. He also shared the fact that we would be on national television, and it might affect future appearances if we don't show the nation today that we are a class act.
I appreciated his words. Sometimes folks get a little wound up, and say/do some things that are inappropriate, and I can't think of a more eloquent and respectul way to communicate with the students than the way Coach Beilein went about it. He's a class act through and through, and I really appreciate what he has done for the reputation of the university, the team, and the fans.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Pitt Woes
Well, I went to the Pitt game with my dad and brother in law last night. There were many expressions similar to this one I captured, all through the stands. It was a tough loss.
But it was good to be with family. It's always good to be with family. I think that's one of the beautiful things about a life of faith. No matter where we are, we are with family. God, exists as Father, Son, and Spirit. But beyond that, we have the community of faith that becomes our extended family. Because of Christ, I have brothers and sisters literally all over the world. Some are suffering, some are very wealthy, some are depressed, and others are lonely. Regardless, we are family.
Have you taken any time to consider your family both locally and abroad?
It sure beats thinking about that Pitt game--yuck!!!
But it was good to be with family. It's always good to be with family. I think that's one of the beautiful things about a life of faith. No matter where we are, we are with family. God, exists as Father, Son, and Spirit. But beyond that, we have the community of faith that becomes our extended family. Because of Christ, I have brothers and sisters literally all over the world. Some are suffering, some are very wealthy, some are depressed, and others are lonely. Regardless, we are family.
Have you taken any time to consider your family both locally and abroad?
It sure beats thinking about that Pitt game--yuck!!!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Swinging into Balance
I love this picture of my former roommate, Nic Culp. He lives in North Carolina now with his beautiful wife, Tara, but from time to time they come up for a visit.
Over the last few weeks we have been talking about a concept of rhythm and balance in our lives at our campus church service h2o. Have you ever noticed your life getting out of balance? Sometimes it just feels like everything is slightly out of step. And it isn't just a spiritual thing. Physically we get our lives out of rhythm when we don't get adequate nourishment, rest, and exercise. Emotionally we lose sync when we become reactionary victims of circumstance. Mentally we find ourselves out of balance when we allow our minds to gravitate toward things that aren't true and good, or we begin to surround ourselves with lies that pollute.
Of course over the month of January I worked hard toward a physical goal of 100 miles of running (which I accomplished!!!). But over the last week, I have largely ignored physical exercise. As a result, I found that my mental, emotional, and spiritual lives took a hit as well. Of course my spiritual life helps to bring other things into balance, but having other areas out of balance will swing us out of rhythm too. You know what I mean?
Last night I went running for the first time in a week. It was amazing what setting aside a little bit of time for exercise meant for my mental, spiritual and emotional sharpness?
Do you feel out of Rhythm ever? How do you adjust and get back on track? I'm discovering that running is very helpful for me. It's a tool that I have ignored for most of the last seven years of my life, but one I'm becoming aware of again.
I find that once I lose rhythm it takes a focussed effort to bring myself back into sync too. It's so easy to let inertia carry me instead of being intentional with time and efforts. Take some time today and evaluate where you are mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. If something needs to change, don't wait! Make it happen today!!!
Over the last few weeks we have been talking about a concept of rhythm and balance in our lives at our campus church service h2o. Have you ever noticed your life getting out of balance? Sometimes it just feels like everything is slightly out of step. And it isn't just a spiritual thing. Physically we get our lives out of rhythm when we don't get adequate nourishment, rest, and exercise. Emotionally we lose sync when we become reactionary victims of circumstance. Mentally we find ourselves out of balance when we allow our minds to gravitate toward things that aren't true and good, or we begin to surround ourselves with lies that pollute.
Of course over the month of January I worked hard toward a physical goal of 100 miles of running (which I accomplished!!!). But over the last week, I have largely ignored physical exercise. As a result, I found that my mental, emotional, and spiritual lives took a hit as well. Of course my spiritual life helps to bring other things into balance, but having other areas out of balance will swing us out of rhythm too. You know what I mean?
Last night I went running for the first time in a week. It was amazing what setting aside a little bit of time for exercise meant for my mental, spiritual and emotional sharpness?
Do you feel out of Rhythm ever? How do you adjust and get back on track? I'm discovering that running is very helpful for me. It's a tool that I have ignored for most of the last seven years of my life, but one I'm becoming aware of again.
I find that once I lose rhythm it takes a focussed effort to bring myself back into sync too. It's so easy to let inertia carry me instead of being intentional with time and efforts. Take some time today and evaluate where you are mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. If something needs to change, don't wait! Make it happen today!!!
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Goals, Resolutions, and Changes
I was sifting through some pictures I took with my new camera on New Year's Eve, and I found this beautiful picture of my mom. I thought everything about this picture just looked so crisp that it needed to be shared with the whole world (er, at least the folks who peruse this blog). I'm hoping to see her sometime soon. I saw her on Martin Luther King Day, and hing out with her for a bit before she had to go take a stress test--as though raising up three kids was not enough of a stress test. She did fine and she has one more round of chemo to go on February 14th. What a valentine's gift--chemotherapy! Thankfully the new drugs she is on don't take all day to dispense.
So about goals. I don't know if you noticed to the left, but I ran over 100 miles in January. So I don't have to be quiet for 48 hours. Now that one month of 2007 is down, how are you doing on your goals? Did you set any for the year? It's never too late to start you know . . .
So about goals. I don't know if you noticed to the left, but I ran over 100 miles in January. So I don't have to be quiet for 48 hours. Now that one month of 2007 is down, how are you doing on your goals? Did you set any for the year? It's never too late to start you know . . .
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Compliments and Kudos
Over the Christmas holiday, my buddy Willie grew a mustache. He has shaved it since then, but this picture really cracks me up!!! He knew it would eventually make an appearance on my blog, so here it is now. He doesn't always look like Ben Stiller's Character from Dodgeball. Willie just accepted a deaconate at his church. (Losing the mustache probably helped ;) Congratulations my friend.
Interestingly, I received a compliment from a friend of mine yesterday. He left me an Instant Message while I was out watching a movie. Check it out.
"i got to thinking the other day my friend and while i have yet to adopt your faith i wanted to tell you i have the utmost respect for you due to it your about the only person who i've met that dosen't force it on people and keeps an open mind about it and just generally seems to want to share something that they consider a gift. i wish there were more of you out there my man because in my book your one of the best people out there i've met"
Pretty cool compliment, I think. I debated putting this comment my friend shared up here. I wouldn't want people to think I was tooting my own horn. I've posted this comment because it was a great encouragement for my day. Little notes like this go a long way when we are having tough times. Even when everything is going well, they are like a balm for our spirits.
If you have an opportunity, and somebody has encouraged you, or been an example to you--take a minute and write them a little note. Little encouragements go a long way!
Interestingly, I received a compliment from a friend of mine yesterday. He left me an Instant Message while I was out watching a movie. Check it out.
"i got to thinking the other day my friend and while i have yet to adopt your faith i wanted to tell you i have the utmost respect for you due to it your about the only person who i've met that dosen't force it on people and keeps an open mind about it and just generally seems to want to share something that they consider a gift. i wish there were more of you out there my man because in my book your one of the best people out there i've met"
Pretty cool compliment, I think. I debated putting this comment my friend shared up here. I wouldn't want people to think I was tooting my own horn. I've posted this comment because it was a great encouragement for my day. Little notes like this go a long way when we are having tough times. Even when everything is going well, they are like a balm for our spirits.
If you have an opportunity, and somebody has encouraged you, or been an example to you--take a minute and write them a little note. Little encouragements go a long way!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
In the flow or connexxion
Although it doesn't fully look like it, this is a picture of me snowboarding down a hill at one of my friend's house. I love snowboarding. It's like surfing on snow. I just like being in the flow with things in general.
Like today. Today has been such an amazing day. I had a full night of sleep. And when I woke up, I had some greating connection with the creator of the universe. Then, I got a bunch of paperwork done before it had the chance to pile up on me (it's so easy to procrastinate and get in trouble with that kind of stuff). Then, I went out to Chestnut Ridge with Brian, Megan, and Cameron, three people who I work with at WVU. We walked around the space, we caught up on life, we shared stories, we played basketball, and in the middle of all of this we were able to connect and talk about a lot of stuff happening among our community. It was fun, relaxed, refreshing, and topped off with a delicious meal at Ruby and Ketchy's, a local restaurant with scrumptious food.
After that, I went with cameron to Starbucks and had some great conversation/connecting times with a couple of students, and managed to also do a little planning for some future events for h2o and our canvas groups.
Cam and I left the coffee shop, and I arrived at home. I caught up on some emails, and had a few short chats on instant messenger with people. Then, I went to see a movie, Pan's Labyrinth. It was pretty interesting (don't want to give away anything).
So I ran down to the theater because I knew that if I wanted to see this movie, I couldn't do it later in the day. It would interrupt my flow.
I arrived a few minutes late, but stuck around and watched the beginning of the next showing of the movie. While I was waiting, I saw a guy who was in a French class I tried to get into and a guy who used to come by the waterhouse (our old ministry center). It was way cool being able to recognize and connect with them.
On my way back home I called my brother, and while I was talking to him (in the freezing cold), another friend drove by and offered me a ride in their warm car.
When I returned to the house I was able to get even more done, and connect with some more folks who I haven't seen/heard from in a while.
It was an amazing day, and I just love it when days like this happen. They are rewarding on so many levels. It's late, and I feel totally relaxed and refreshed.
I would love to hear about your experience with a day like this. I know we all have them from time to time, and they are SOOOOO good! Hope whenever you read this--you are having one of these days!!!
Like today. Today has been such an amazing day. I had a full night of sleep. And when I woke up, I had some greating connection with the creator of the universe. Then, I got a bunch of paperwork done before it had the chance to pile up on me (it's so easy to procrastinate and get in trouble with that kind of stuff). Then, I went out to Chestnut Ridge with Brian, Megan, and Cameron, three people who I work with at WVU. We walked around the space, we caught up on life, we shared stories, we played basketball, and in the middle of all of this we were able to connect and talk about a lot of stuff happening among our community. It was fun, relaxed, refreshing, and topped off with a delicious meal at Ruby and Ketchy's, a local restaurant with scrumptious food.
After that, I went with cameron to Starbucks and had some great conversation/connecting times with a couple of students, and managed to also do a little planning for some future events for h2o and our canvas groups.
Cam and I left the coffee shop, and I arrived at home. I caught up on some emails, and had a few short chats on instant messenger with people. Then, I went to see a movie, Pan's Labyrinth. It was pretty interesting (don't want to give away anything).
So I ran down to the theater because I knew that if I wanted to see this movie, I couldn't do it later in the day. It would interrupt my flow.
I arrived a few minutes late, but stuck around and watched the beginning of the next showing of the movie. While I was waiting, I saw a guy who was in a French class I tried to get into and a guy who used to come by the waterhouse (our old ministry center). It was way cool being able to recognize and connect with them.
On my way back home I called my brother, and while I was talking to him (in the freezing cold), another friend drove by and offered me a ride in their warm car.
When I returned to the house I was able to get even more done, and connect with some more folks who I haven't seen/heard from in a while.
It was an amazing day, and I just love it when days like this happen. They are rewarding on so many levels. It's late, and I feel totally relaxed and refreshed.
I would love to hear about your experience with a day like this. I know we all have them from time to time, and they are SOOOOO good! Hope whenever you read this--you are having one of these days!!!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Finally A Gator Bowl Victory
Last week at the WVU v. USF basketball game, the WVU football team was honored during halftime.
It's interesting to me, because I believe 1984 was the first year we plaeyed in the gator bowl. My neighbor bought me a gator bowl tshirt for Christmas. My dad laughed and said those shirts would probably be really cheap in the near future. And they were, because WVU lost.
Losing bowl games makes for some pretty inexpensive shirts, but I will take a win any day. In the center of the picture are several players, and coach Rodriguez. Even though my new camera has 5x zoom, I was sitting in the upper section of the colisseum. There is only so much a zoom can do I guess.
Here's to the Mountaineers.
It's interesting to me, because I believe 1984 was the first year we plaeyed in the gator bowl. My neighbor bought me a gator bowl tshirt for Christmas. My dad laughed and said those shirts would probably be really cheap in the near future. And they were, because WVU lost.
Losing bowl games makes for some pretty inexpensive shirts, but I will take a win any day. In the center of the picture are several players, and coach Rodriguez. Even though my new camera has 5x zoom, I was sitting in the upper section of the colisseum. There is only so much a zoom can do I guess.
Here's to the Mountaineers.
The Buggles - Video Killed The Radio Star
One of my friends sent me this video link on you tube. For many, it is a very familiar video. It is the first video ever shown on MTV in the early 80s.
So why am I posting this? You could look at it as an insight to how quickly fashions can and should change. you could look at it as a reason why many people love/hate 80s music. But there is something different that strikes me here.
Video has completely changed our society. I may do a future post on this subject but for now, I want you to think about how many televisions you have in your house. How much time do you spend in front of a screen--computer/tv/other? How has this media enhanced your life, and your appreciation for the written/spoken word?
Have you ever thought about this? Words are powerful, but when you put those words to a rhythm and melody, you majorly accent those words. Throw visual images in the mix, and the story that mere words tell becomes more complex.
In some ways multi-media limits our imagination, but in other ways, it has opened the door to a whole new world of imaginative exploration and creation.
What do you think about the power of media to creatively communicate a story?
Monday, January 22, 2007
Cabin in the Hills
For the last few years, my dad and I have talked about how great it would be to have a cabin to get away to in the mountains. My brother in law, was also interested in the idea. When I say cabin, put away all thoughts of some fancy log cabin with a really romantic fireplace. I'm talking about an old camper with a roof built over it and a porch.
It's near Elkins WV in the middle of the Monongahela National Forest. It would be a place in the mountains for family and friends to retreat to, to go fishing, to go hunting, or to just get away from life in town.
It looks like this dream is soon to become reality. So who is up for a fishing trip? Or, who just wants to get away and chill for a weekend? By the way, when I say chill, I should also say that we would have to bring an electric heater with us, especially in this weather.
I am so excited for this little opportunity for family and friends. Looking forward to hanging out there in the future!
It's near Elkins WV in the middle of the Monongahela National Forest. It would be a place in the mountains for family and friends to retreat to, to go fishing, to go hunting, or to just get away from life in town.
It looks like this dream is soon to become reality. So who is up for a fishing trip? Or, who just wants to get away and chill for a weekend? By the way, when I say chill, I should also say that we would have to bring an electric heater with us, especially in this weather.
I am so excited for this little opportunity for family and friends. Looking forward to hanging out there in the future!
Friday, January 19, 2007
Mom on the Road
This week has proven difficult for me to blog for a number of reasions, but rather than giving excuses, I will give you one of the myriad things I've been thinking about--my mom!!!
This week, I have had the privilege of spending a lot of time with her. I went home for MLK day, and worked from there Tuesday. Yesterday, I drove to Elkins to look at a fishing cabin that my dad and brother-in-law are thinking about buying. Mom went with them too.
I realized after my last visit I didn't take a picture of my mom, so I made sure to get this one yesterday at the fish camp.
My mom is soooo awesome!!! My dad and I were talking about this fishing camp late last night, and then we started talking about my mom, and how much she means to us. She has been a quiet leader in our family. My dad leads our household, but my mom takes care of everything behind the scenes. Over the last several months, my dad has had to take on many responsibilities that my mom used to take care of.
Last night he said that she was just such a good person, and that she cares for everybody. My mom has a big heart!!! (and so does my dad for that matter!!!) I think they have ingrained it into us kids. But My dad said something truly beautiful about my mom. "She is a good woman."
I agree Dad. My mom is a good woman. And my dad is a good man. I am so thankful for both of them. I am so thankful that they raised me in such big-hearted way.
My mom is so strong, so gentle, so compassionate, and so beautiful. I hope I can bring beauty into the world the way she has over the course of her life.
Do you take time to reflect on the goodness God has instilled in those who are around you? Whose faith and life do you want to imitate?
This week, I have had the privilege of spending a lot of time with her. I went home for MLK day, and worked from there Tuesday. Yesterday, I drove to Elkins to look at a fishing cabin that my dad and brother-in-law are thinking about buying. Mom went with them too.
I realized after my last visit I didn't take a picture of my mom, so I made sure to get this one yesterday at the fish camp.
My mom is soooo awesome!!! My dad and I were talking about this fishing camp late last night, and then we started talking about my mom, and how much she means to us. She has been a quiet leader in our family. My dad leads our household, but my mom takes care of everything behind the scenes. Over the last several months, my dad has had to take on many responsibilities that my mom used to take care of.
Last night he said that she was just such a good person, and that she cares for everybody. My mom has a big heart!!! (and so does my dad for that matter!!!) I think they have ingrained it into us kids. But My dad said something truly beautiful about my mom. "She is a good woman."
I agree Dad. My mom is a good woman. And my dad is a good man. I am so thankful for both of them. I am so thankful that they raised me in such big-hearted way.
My mom is so strong, so gentle, so compassionate, and so beautiful. I hope I can bring beauty into the world the way she has over the course of her life.
Do you take time to reflect on the goodness God has instilled in those who are around you? Whose faith and life do you want to imitate?
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Martin Luther King
Today we observe Martin Luther King Day in the United States. I found this video on youtube, and I was riveted by it. I know it is a little long, but it is worth the watch if you have the time. I feel like we know too little of the great orators of our modern world. I thoroughly enjoy reading and listening to the great words of great leaders like Dr. King.
I hope you enjoy the video and take time to reflect upon his eloquence, his leadership and his contribution to the fabric of God's world.
Who knows, maybe you are reading this and God is inspiring you to share the hope of Shalom that Jesus offers every one of us.
Dream big! Dream of Shalom!
What great venture of faith is God calling you to give your life to?
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Mom Before Her Second Dose of the New Chemo
i've been meaning to blog this photo for quite a while. I took it at around 6.30AM on January 3. People have been asking me how Mom has been doing. Well, here she is.
She's had her second dose of chemo since this picture, and she has been suffering from a cough for nearly two months. Although she has had some great reports in terms of her cancer, she still needs a lot of prayer. We aren't sure where the cough is coming from, but I heard it for the first time the morning I left. (Coughs are always worse in the morning). She just started taking an antibiotic this week for the cough, and it seems to be working.
There have been some questions about her heart in recent weeks too. Anyone who knows her, knows that her heart is one of the biggest and strongest ones out there. She's a compassionate and caring lady. Nobody questions that. The concern is that the chemo medicine may be doing physical damage to her heart muscle. Please pray that this is not the case, and that her emotionally strong heart is also a physically strong one. She had a stress test today to check out her heart, but I don't know the results yet.
Please keep her in your prayers, and thanks for being faithful in prayer this far!
She's had her second dose of chemo since this picture, and she has been suffering from a cough for nearly two months. Although she has had some great reports in terms of her cancer, she still needs a lot of prayer. We aren't sure where the cough is coming from, but I heard it for the first time the morning I left. (Coughs are always worse in the morning). She just started taking an antibiotic this week for the cough, and it seems to be working.
There have been some questions about her heart in recent weeks too. Anyone who knows her, knows that her heart is one of the biggest and strongest ones out there. She's a compassionate and caring lady. Nobody questions that. The concern is that the chemo medicine may be doing physical damage to her heart muscle. Please pray that this is not the case, and that her emotionally strong heart is also a physically strong one. She had a stress test today to check out her heart, but I don't know the results yet.
Please keep her in your prayers, and thanks for being faithful in prayer this far!
Nice Shot
I just finished reading a brief article about a historic event that happened on this day in history. Today insulin was first used to treat diabetes in a human being. Just think how many lives have been saved, and the improvement in the quality of life that has been given to so many people because of this innovation.
My mom takes insulin shots. At least one of my uncles suffers from diabetes. Many American Indian people suffer from diabetes. Most of us know someone who has been affected by the advent of this injection. In the photo above, you can see some insulin crystals.
So why am I writing about this? It's a bit of a strange topic by itself, but I think the thing to consider is innovation. God has made us to be innovative and imaginative people. We were made to imagine the world a better place, and bring that imaginative vision into reality.
What is it that God wants you to bring from an idea into reality? How does God want you to apply your mind, your abilities, and your skills to make His world even more beautiful?
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
The Future of Cell Phones
It's been a while since I have blogged, and the irony is that I have had such a large amount to blog about, I have simply lacked the time/opportunity to do it well. So today, I am just blogging about the most exciting piece of technology since the ipod. Apple changed the way we thought about computers, and now we have computers in the majority of homes in America. Then, in 2001, Apple changed the way we listen to music with the advent of the ipod.
Tuesday, Apple unveiled the future of cellular phones, the iphone. If you use a cellular phone, apple has combined the capabilities of a cell phone, an ipod, an email/chat service, and internet browsing in a handheld device. The phone features a 2MP camera among other neat goodies.
Even though I love the advances we are making in technology, and the way Apple makes technology so fun and accessible, even to non-techies like me, I still wonder about things. (Don't get me wrong, this phone is way up on my birthday/Christmas list if you are wondering what to get a hip young shawnee with a love for cool stuff that makes life easier.)
I wonder, as simple as the cell phone and email/chats make it to stay connected, are we better connected? What about time to think and be alone? I mean, on the college campus, I see hundreds of students every day with cell phones attached to their ears as they walk between classes. Are the people gabbing away better connected with their friends? With themselves? With God? Sometimes I wonder if we aren't just the most distracted generation in history.
Again, no mistake, if I held the power of the iphone in my hands, I would use it for good! And cell phones in general have allowed us to stay connected with more people, more often. What do you think about cell phones? Have they been a help or a hindrance to you in your life? And what do you think about the iphone? Pretty cool huh!!!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Walmart Pushes for Changing Bulbs
So, when one thinks about the environment, perhaps walmart isn't the first name that comes to mind. But, according to this recent New York Times article, Walmart is serious about minimizing energy consumption in the United States by heavily promoting compact fluorescent bulbs.
The article is pretty interesting because it goes over pros and cons of the bulbs. I'm planning to change out a few more bulbs myself this year. And of course, I always welcome you to take a step and make the change as well. There has been a lull on the one billion bulbs campaign, but perhaps you will want to make a New Year's Resolution, and join my friends of chanchanchepon group so we can track our collective savings and reduction of waste.
Let's do our part to make the world a better place in 2007! What steps are you going to take?
The article is pretty interesting because it goes over pros and cons of the bulbs. I'm planning to change out a few more bulbs myself this year. And of course, I always welcome you to take a step and make the change as well. There has been a lull on the one billion bulbs campaign, but perhaps you will want to make a New Year's Resolution, and join my friends of chanchanchepon group so we can track our collective savings and reduction of waste.
Let's do our part to make the world a better place in 2007! What steps are you going to take?
Monday, January 01, 2007
Leaping into a New Year
My best friend on the planet, Willie, and his family came to visit the family for new years. We went to see Brett Cain with a handful of people from Morgantown last night.
This morning the new year started. Just like Willie's son in this picture, Willie and I have made a commitment to leap into 2007 with a number of goals.
Among our goals are fitness goals. Willie is attempting to lose weight and get fit. You can track his progress here.
Willie got me a new pair of Nike+ running shoes, an armband, a Nike+ sensor, and an ipod nano to help me move toward fitness goals. I ran almost five miles today. I ran too hard, and I am really tired.
But . . .I have made a resolution for January. I am going to run 100 miles this month, or else I will remain silent for 48 hours. So, feel free to ask me about my goal, and if I don't talk for a couple of days in February, you'll know how I fared. 48 hours of silence may not seem like much, but for someone who is as involved with people as I am, it will prove to be quite difficult.
So have you made any new years resolutions? Any goals for 2007? I have a few other goals, but perhaps I will save them for a future entry. If you haven't set any goals for 2007, perhaps now is the time to take a leap of faith and set some goals. You can post them here, and then I can encourage you toward seeing them become reality!!!
New Arrival
Well, I finally received my new camera, and as a result, I have been able to take some photos of the newest member of our family. Meet Daisy May. This little Shih Tzu is my mom's Christmas present this year, and she is adorable. She is six years old, and she has quickly captured the hearts of everyone who sees her.
It has been a while since we have had any dogs around the house, and it's been very cool seeing how Daisy has affected my mom and dad. There is some excitement in the house, and mom and dad are both thrilled to be caring for this dog. In fact, mom goes outside with Daisy every time she needs to go out. I feel like God has used this pet to breath new life and vitality into our house.
Daisy is a well behaved dog too. She is housebroken, and I believe she has taken to the family very quickly. I've been wanting to get some pictures of her for about a week, but I just started playing around with my new camera Sunday.
How have your pets affected you and your home?
It has been a while since we have had any dogs around the house, and it's been very cool seeing how Daisy has affected my mom and dad. There is some excitement in the house, and mom and dad are both thrilled to be caring for this dog. In fact, mom goes outside with Daisy every time she needs to go out. I feel like God has used this pet to breath new life and vitality into our house.
Daisy is a well behaved dog too. She is housebroken, and I believe she has taken to the family very quickly. I've been wanting to get some pictures of her for about a week, but I just started playing around with my new camera Sunday.
How have your pets affected you and your home?
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Death of Saddam
Ok, this is big news, and the photo appeared on the washington post dot com website. Here is their article.
I'm sure everyone has an opinion on this event. I'm sitting at a hotel right now, and I've seen footage of his last moments about 8 times in the last hour. (Actually, make that 9 times. While I was typing this it was shown again.) How many times do we need to see something like this? How often does it need to be recapitulated in our news. I realize that by putting this in a blog, I am probably doing the same thing.
What do you make of the way we report news? How do you feel about the death of Saddam? I'm really not sure what to make of the event myself. It's hard to know how to feel when someone dies you have only seen on television. How do I feel about the death of James Brown, or the death of Gerald Ford. I guess overall, I'm a little sad, because we were made eternal beings in the image of God, and when someone dies, I wonder--will they spend the rest of their eternal lives in the presence of the Creator of the universe, or will they be eternally separated.
And what about us? While we still have breath, are we contemplating the type of people we are becoming, and preparing for the kind of life that is eternally in the presence of God, or outside the presence of God?
I'm not articulating these thoughts well. It is difficult to process exactly what I am thinking right now. (especially now that the video has been shown a 10th time while I am still writing). I think I am going to prepare for a drive back from Terra Haute to Parkersburg.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Apple World
Apple has definitely come a long way. Wired Magazine had an article about how this is Steve Job's best year ever. You can read it here.
I'm looking forward to the new iphone. It's just a rumor right now, but I have a feeling it will be coming out soon, and my phone is in rough shape right now, so I think it will be a cool replacement.
Anyhoo, I thought this picture might make some people nostalgic for gradeschool or somethin'.
I'm looking forward to the new iphone. It's just a rumor right now, but I have a feeling it will be coming out soon, and my phone is in rough shape right now, so I think it will be a cool replacement.
Anyhoo, I thought this picture might make some people nostalgic for gradeschool or somethin'.
Photos and Technology
Here is yet another video from Royksopp. Actually when I went to amsterdam the first time I picked up a CD of European house/lounge music, and this song was on it, and quickly became one of my favorites. It was also the song Apple used when you turned on a Mac with the Panther OS. In other words, when I received my mac, and turned it on for the first time, it was not only visually pleasing, but also it was music to my ears.
So this video really intrigues me. I like the way the images end up being continuous layers of photos. (I think HP did a commercial with a similar concept).
After I was introduced to the other Royksopp video, I thought I would search to see if eple was on you tube, and since it was, I figured I would share it with ya.
I am amazed at the illusions we can create through technology. Just when you think you are seeing a "real" image, it fades into the background and becomes a photo on the wall.
You could think about the whole thing as an illusion, but the more I think about it, I think of it a little differently.
Photo's capture an image of a larger story. The video demonstrates that the image is only an image, but it is a part of something larger. As the camera moves in the video, we are taken into a story that is larger than the photo's although it is an unfamiliar story. When we look at our own photo's we are immersed in a story far larger than the moment captured, and in those instances, it seems like we are more cognizant of it.
Just some random thoughts to coincide with a cool video and tune.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Blogging from Nowhere
So, I took this picture of the Ceiling of the Egyptian theater in Los Angeles when I went to see the film Los Angeles Plays Itself with my Friend JR May.
What's new in my world? Well, my flickr account just said I need to upgrade to pro if I want to be able to see all of the photos I've uploaded.
I'm in the middle of nowhere in Missouri at a conference right now, and just wanted to take a minute to blog. The conference is great, and I finally found a wireless signal.
My pink eye has cleared up, and my GI tract has returned to a somewhat normal state finally.
And then, after everything else that happened to me, my camera died somewhere around Christmas. When I pulled it out to take some holiday photos, it wouldn't work.
So I have purchased a new camera, and it should arrive in Parkersburg by the time I make it back that way. I plan on spending new years with my family (including my best friend/brother--willie and his family). We are going to see Brett Cain on New Year's Eve.
Initially I was thinking it would be cool to have a bunch of people come join us, but given my mom's health situation, this probably wasn't the brightest idea I've ever had.
So those are some random things happening in my world. A little disconnected and random (especially with the picture).
If you would like to read more about my experience at the Egyptian, click here.
Hope to write more (and photograph more and become a flickr pro member) in the future.
What's new in my world? Well, my flickr account just said I need to upgrade to pro if I want to be able to see all of the photos I've uploaded.
I'm in the middle of nowhere in Missouri at a conference right now, and just wanted to take a minute to blog. The conference is great, and I finally found a wireless signal.
My pink eye has cleared up, and my GI tract has returned to a somewhat normal state finally.
And then, after everything else that happened to me, my camera died somewhere around Christmas. When I pulled it out to take some holiday photos, it wouldn't work.
So I have purchased a new camera, and it should arrive in Parkersburg by the time I make it back that way. I plan on spending new years with my family (including my best friend/brother--willie and his family). We are going to see Brett Cain on New Year's Eve.
Initially I was thinking it would be cool to have a bunch of people come join us, but given my mom's health situation, this probably wasn't the brightest idea I've ever had.
So those are some random things happening in my world. A little disconnected and random (especially with the picture).
If you would like to read more about my experience at the Egyptian, click here.
Hope to write more (and photograph more and become a flickr pro member) in the future.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
pink eye and quarantine
I didn't take this photo, but I can empathize with the dilemma of pink eye. I found out out that I have contracted pink eye, and right now I am in the process of treating this illness with an anti-biotic.
My internet access has been limited over the last few days, and so I haven't been able to write. Plus, I have felt like yuck!
Thursday I left Morgantown only to find out that I couldn't come to parkersburg for an additional 24 hours, or I would put my mom at risk exposing her to pink eye.
So I drove to Pittsburgh to do some Christmas shopping, and then I drove to wheeling to visit some friends, including Brett Cain. I would put a link to his website in this blog, but it is under development right now.
So I drove back to Morgantown Thursday night, and left Morgantown Friday afternoon. I did some Christmas shopping in Pittsburgh again (different mall), and then proceeded down the road to Parkersburg.
Along the way, I started to feel sick. I think I might have gotten food poisoning. I decided to stay at my sisters because of the sickness. And then I ended up getting a fever (which broke around 4AM Saturday morning).
Right now, I am still under a limited quarantine, but I am feeling better, and I am looking forward to seeing my mom and dad on Christmas day.
It's been a difficult couple of days, but compared to many, my problems are insignificant.
I've been trying to figure out what God was trying to do in the middle of all of this. I haven't been sick like this for six or seven years. I think maybe God was wanting me to spend some time with my sister and brother-in-law. In spite of my illness, we had a great couple of days together.
In spite of our circumstances, we can be faithful that God causes all things to work for the good.
And even though I have pink eye, at least I am not as hairy as the rabbit in the picture!
My internet access has been limited over the last few days, and so I haven't been able to write. Plus, I have felt like yuck!
Thursday I left Morgantown only to find out that I couldn't come to parkersburg for an additional 24 hours, or I would put my mom at risk exposing her to pink eye.
So I drove to Pittsburgh to do some Christmas shopping, and then I drove to wheeling to visit some friends, including Brett Cain. I would put a link to his website in this blog, but it is under development right now.
So I drove back to Morgantown Thursday night, and left Morgantown Friday afternoon. I did some Christmas shopping in Pittsburgh again (different mall), and then proceeded down the road to Parkersburg.
Along the way, I started to feel sick. I think I might have gotten food poisoning. I decided to stay at my sisters because of the sickness. And then I ended up getting a fever (which broke around 4AM Saturday morning).
Right now, I am still under a limited quarantine, but I am feeling better, and I am looking forward to seeing my mom and dad on Christmas day.
It's been a difficult couple of days, but compared to many, my problems are insignificant.
I've been trying to figure out what God was trying to do in the middle of all of this. I haven't been sick like this for six or seven years. I think maybe God was wanting me to spend some time with my sister and brother-in-law. In spite of my illness, we had a great couple of days together.
In spite of our circumstances, we can be faithful that God causes all things to work for the good.
And even though I have pink eye, at least I am not as hairy as the rabbit in the picture!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Nothing simple is it?
My friend Jeremiah sent me a link to this video on youtube. It's by a European lounge band called Royksopp, and it is called "Remind Me". The whole video is oriented toward proecesses, and it is a good reminder that nothing is as simple as we think it is. When we see how complex our world is, it gives us a picture of how much more complex God is. He sustains it all. And there is so much happening every day in our world that we take for granted. Have you given much thought to how the water cycle works, and the distances water travels from your home to the rivers, and back again?
I marvel at the complexity that this video shows of our world. Even in the beginning, to think about how complex our bodies are--we take it for granted because everything in each one of these systems works well most of the time. Sometimes we need to take a step back like the song says and let the visuals "remind us".
Friday, December 15, 2006
Beautiful City
I was going to entitle this "City of Blinding Lights" after the U2 song, but then I realized . . .Morgantown isn't exactly a city of blinding lights.
But the sky the other night was beautiful. I went for a walk through my neighborhood with my friend Ryan Huffman (who just got engaged!!!) and we just took time to catch up.
As we walked out of my driveway, I saw this sight, and pulled out my camera to capture it.
This town amazes me. I remember when I was considering college, this wasn't exactly number one on my list. But I love this town. With views like this, who wouldn't.
If you have ever been to morgantown you know what I mean. What's your favorite view, or place to hang out round here?
But the sky the other night was beautiful. I went for a walk through my neighborhood with my friend Ryan Huffman (who just got engaged!!!) and we just took time to catch up.
As we walked out of my driveway, I saw this sight, and pulled out my camera to capture it.
This town amazes me. I remember when I was considering college, this wasn't exactly number one on my list. But I love this town. With views like this, who wouldn't.
If you have ever been to morgantown you know what I mean. What's your favorite view, or place to hang out round here?
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Night Sky
Last night I drove out with some friends to my friend Jeremiah's house to watch a meteor shower. Ricky Beamer took the picture above (among many others) and posted them to facebook if you wanna see more of em. I tried to take some photos with my camera, but unfortunately I just couldn't get anything but darkness--no stars, nothing.
So a half dozen of us took some blankets, and laid down on a hill close to Jeremiah's house in Preston county. It was really relaxing to just spend some time like that. I realized that most of my life I have rarely taken time to lay on the ground and just look up at the sky for an extended period of time. The night sky is beautiful. The daytime sky is pretty cool too, but I just seem to get so busy in the comings and goings of life that I fail to really appreciate the beauty of looking upward.
Of course there are all kinds of spiritual implications to this. We need to not be so busy that we forget to look to God, and ideas like that are definitely true, and came to my mind last night.
But much of the evening I thought about two things. Firstly, I thought about how the heavens declare the glory of God. I thought about how vast the heavens are, and how much more vast Christ is, and how it would be easy to begin to explore the heavens and get distracted in the process, but how wonderful it is to explore the created order and see the fingerprints of God--everywhere.
The second thing I thought about was having undistracted times with people. I thought about my tribe's land, and how we would often stay up half the night talking about Jesus, and drumming and singing, and watching meteor showers on our little plot of land. We would share stories with one another, and as the weekend continued on, life would take on more and more of a simple beauty. I feel like last night touched on that simple beauty. There is something about connecting with others, connecting with creation, connecting with yourself, and most importantly connecting with God that happens most artfully as we leave most of our daily distractions behind.
I hope you are able to take some time to set aside the busy plodding of life to soak in the special moments with friends and family over the holidays. Maybe give the television a rest for a bit. Shut off your computer. Turn off your cell phone. And enjoy the simple beauty of a night with friends and family.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Chasing Darkness
Well, folks have been wondering how my mom is doing. While she is dealing with a cough and some shortness of breath, I have some wonderful news to share.
All of the cancer is gone except for the tumor in her right breast!!! She is starting a different chemotherapy plan Wednesday. I am totally thrilled. I don't have a lot of the details, and unfortunately I wasn't with her when she found out or there would be a picture of her crying tears of gratitude.
Just like the light chasing away the darkness, God is using your prayers to chase away the cancer in my mom's body!
Thank you for your prayers, and thank you God for chasing away the bad stuff that was trying to hurt my mom!
I am soooooo immensely grateful for the gracious mercy and love God has made evident in my life over the last month. What am I saying, ha! He has made his gracious mercy and love evident over my whole life. I guess we have those moments of lucidity though.
I hope to be more God aware for the rest of my days on this earth! And I hope I can encourage the same in you!
All of the cancer is gone except for the tumor in her right breast!!! She is starting a different chemotherapy plan Wednesday. I am totally thrilled. I don't have a lot of the details, and unfortunately I wasn't with her when she found out or there would be a picture of her crying tears of gratitude.
Just like the light chasing away the darkness, God is using your prayers to chase away the cancer in my mom's body!
Thank you for your prayers, and thank you God for chasing away the bad stuff that was trying to hurt my mom!
I am soooooo immensely grateful for the gracious mercy and love God has made evident in my life over the last month. What am I saying, ha! He has made his gracious mercy and love evident over my whole life. I guess we have those moments of lucidity though.
I hope to be more God aware for the rest of my days on this earth! And I hope I can encourage the same in you!
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Woodburn Whiteout
I took this picture at about 1.30PM today. It looks like dusk is nearing because the snow is falling so heavily. That's woodburn hall in the background. You can tell it is daytime because the woodburn lights aren't on yet. Not sure why the light posts are on.
In-Flurry-Ated
I was walking down to campus this afternoon, and a storm blew up. I thought it would be cool to take a picture, and in the few seconds between that thought, and stopping to take this photo I was saturated with snow!
Not so long ago, it was sixty-five degrees. Maybe the cold weater and snow are finally here to stay.
The wind and snow were coming down similar to the rain I experienced last week. The snow hurt as it hit my face, and before I knew it my body was covered in white. Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on whether you have to drive or commute in this), the snow has seriously slowed down since that gust.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
One Billion Bulbs
This morning I received an email from my best friend on the planet, Willie, about an environmental website that is encouraging people to switch from incandescent bulbs to lower wattage fluorescent bulbs. I've just recently started switching out my bulbs, and the idea behind it is to save money on the electric bill, decrease the amount of environmental waste done through normal lighting, and also reduce cooling costs for homes in the summer.
It's pretty amazing to look at what happens when you change one bulb out. I am in the process of placing some of these bulbs in my house. I am so excited about it that I created a group that you should join!!! I thought it would be cool to see what kind of impact we could have on the environment. If you look on this blog, I have added a link to the sidebar that will track the total impact this group is having, and the total amount of savings that just me and my friends who join the group are accruing.
I hope you will go out and buy some bulbs and consider joining my group!
Also, earlier this year, I had a post about discovering your ecological footprint. In other words, if everybody on the planet lived like you (or me), how many planets would we need to sustain everybody. Click here to find out what your ecological footprint is. I just did mine again this morning, and because of some changes I have made, it would now only take 2.8 earths to sustain the world if everybody lived like me. Only 2.8 earths!
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Following Jesus
A friend of mine loaned me a book about five years ago that I am just getting around to reading. It's called Follow Me, and it has been a really interesting read so far. In the opening chapter, Jan David Hettinga, the author, proposes that many who profess belief in Jesus have never made a decision to really follow Him. Below is a quote of what he says a life like this might look like.
Be Cynical about church and the possibility of the Christian life actually working.
Cover the fact that I was spiritually empty, dry, and unsatisfied.
Tend to be passive and apathetic. I would have good intentions but lack follow-through.
Be focused on myself—my needs, my rights, my options.
Prefer being a spectator—watching, listening, but not really participating.
Occasionally admit that I have a busy, fast-paced, cluttered life, and a short attention span.
Insist on arranging my life around my personal preferences, pleasures, and comforts.
Subdivide my life so that I could move from one sealed compartment to another, keeping each strictly separate—church world, work world, leisure world, family world, and so forth.
Go through the motions, doing what is expected, more out of habit than anything else.
Be spiritually sterile, barren, and nonproductive in witness, and not troubled about it.
Experience the frustration of trying to have the best of both worlds, attempting to serve two masters—Jesus and someone or something else.
Pride myself on my ability to be independent and self-sufficient.
Keep my options open and remain uncommitted in order to avoid getting tied down.
Have little or no sense of overriding spiritual purpose or cause, and prefer to drift.
Cover up a quiet desperation inside—“There’s gotta be more to the Christian life than this powerless state I’m experiencing.
After I read this, I couldn't help but feel like this could describe periods in the life of every person I know, including myself. It has been a good reminder to me of my need to take regular time to evaluate what I am centering my life upon.
As Dallas Willard is fond of noting, we are all students of someone. We are all learning how to live from someone, and following some teacher. The question we are compelled to ask ourselves is "Is our teacher Jesus, or somebody or something else?"
Monday, December 04, 2006
Temptation
I was walking to visit/study with some friends at a the Zen Clay Cafe in Morgantown when I saw these berries hanging from the limb of a tree.
These berries look so delicious. I just wanted to pick a cluster and start eating them. But, I have the feeling they are poisonous. They seem to be ripe a little out of season. It is december, and the tree these were hanging from has no leaves. In fact, no tree in the area has leaves. They are all barren. That just makes these berries stand out even more. They are just so tantalizing. I wonder what they taste like. Maybe just a little bite . . .
I think that's the way temptation works in our life. When we are walking along on a cold winter day, and we see a splash of color, something that we wouldn't pay much heed to at other times can be quite consuming. Temptation always looks good. It sets itself apart from everything around it. It makes itself look more satisfying than it could ever be. And before we know it, we are captivated by its allure.
How do you respond when temptation presents itself so delectably?
These berries look so delicious. I just wanted to pick a cluster and start eating them. But, I have the feeling they are poisonous. They seem to be ripe a little out of season. It is december, and the tree these were hanging from has no leaves. In fact, no tree in the area has leaves. They are all barren. That just makes these berries stand out even more. They are just so tantalizing. I wonder what they taste like. Maybe just a little bite . . .
I think that's the way temptation works in our life. When we are walking along on a cold winter day, and we see a splash of color, something that we wouldn't pay much heed to at other times can be quite consuming. Temptation always looks good. It sets itself apart from everything around it. It makes itself look more satisfying than it could ever be. And before we know it, we are captivated by its allure.
How do you respond when temptation presents itself so delectably?
Tears of Joy
I was trying to find a photo that captured the pulchritude of salvation, and I found this image on flickr. The woman who took the picture said that she believed this flower was crying tears of joy after a rain storm.
A couple of months ago, I was contacted on my myspace account by this gal who had found my blog and had been reading it for a few months. She wanted to write me about what she had been reading, and thankfully I had recently set up a myspace acount.
I received an email from this gal on myspace, and in the email she shared how she had been an athiest/agnostic most of her life, but through reading this blog she felt inspired to find some way to dig herself out of what she had buried herself in over the past few years.
An email correspondence ensued. She came to check out our small faith gathering, h2o. She told me she couldn't just start believing something blindly, so I encouraged her to begin reading the Bible each day starting with the gospel of John. Last Thursday, she called me and told me she wanted to meet with me if I had any time available.
So we grabbed lunch at a restaurant in downtown Morgantown called Black Bear Burritos that was started by my high school senior class president. We enjoyed a great meal, and I proceeded to share with her how our satisfaction was meant to be found in God alone, but that we were all estranged from God because we have been seeking our satisfaction in other places. Thankfully, because God is immensely gracious toward us, He has allowed us to be reconciled to Him through Jesus the Messiah.
I asked Kristen if there was anything that would stop her from putting her trust in Jesus Christ to reconcile her to God and to lead her life. She said there wasn't, and so I asked her if she would like to pray with me and invite Him into her life. She said yes, and so right there in the middle of the restaurant, we prayed, and and cried tears of joy, just like the flower in the picture. Now Kristen is a Christian, and nothing can separate her from God's unfathomable love!
Isn't that wonderful news?
A couple of months ago, I was contacted on my myspace account by this gal who had found my blog and had been reading it for a few months. She wanted to write me about what she had been reading, and thankfully I had recently set up a myspace acount.
I received an email from this gal on myspace, and in the email she shared how she had been an athiest/agnostic most of her life, but through reading this blog she felt inspired to find some way to dig herself out of what she had buried herself in over the past few years.
An email correspondence ensued. She came to check out our small faith gathering, h2o. She told me she couldn't just start believing something blindly, so I encouraged her to begin reading the Bible each day starting with the gospel of John. Last Thursday, she called me and told me she wanted to meet with me if I had any time available.
So we grabbed lunch at a restaurant in downtown Morgantown called Black Bear Burritos that was started by my high school senior class president. We enjoyed a great meal, and I proceeded to share with her how our satisfaction was meant to be found in God alone, but that we were all estranged from God because we have been seeking our satisfaction in other places. Thankfully, because God is immensely gracious toward us, He has allowed us to be reconciled to Him through Jesus the Messiah.
I asked Kristen if there was anything that would stop her from putting her trust in Jesus Christ to reconcile her to God and to lead her life. She said there wasn't, and so I asked her if she would like to pray with me and invite Him into her life. She said yes, and so right there in the middle of the restaurant, we prayed, and and cried tears of joy, just like the flower in the picture. Now Kristen is a Christian, and nothing can separate her from God's unfathomable love!
Isn't that wonderful news?
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Summit
Over the last week or so, I have been in some interesting dialogues with people about radical life dreams, goals, and things of that nature. On three different occasions, Mount Everest was brought up. I even watched the movie Into Thin Air about an Everest disaster while at my parents Thanksgiving weekend.
A couple of years ago, my dad and I hiked to the top of Seneca Rocks, and took this picture. The same summer, my brother hiked to the top of Mount Whitney, and is trying to persuade me to join him on a possible trip next summer.
What is it about these places that draw us to them? What makes us want to climb Everest? I recently saw this link on a friend's blog, and thought you might enjoy it too.
I believe there are several reasons. One reason is the challenge. Nobody, in their heart of hearts, is truly content with mediocrity. We enjoy pushing our bodies, our minds, and our spirits to their limits. In fact, truth be told, it is in those moments that we probably feel most alive. Maybe it is adrenaline, but I think there is something beyond that.
I believe we climb to these summits to experience God in His transcendence. When we look from Everest or another summit, we get a more robust understanding of the grandness of God. All of creation points us to the magnificent glory of God, if we just take the time to soak it in.
What are the summits you are seeking to experience more of God's supremacy in your life?
A couple of years ago, my dad and I hiked to the top of Seneca Rocks, and took this picture. The same summer, my brother hiked to the top of Mount Whitney, and is trying to persuade me to join him on a possible trip next summer.
What is it about these places that draw us to them? What makes us want to climb Everest? I recently saw this link on a friend's blog, and thought you might enjoy it too.
I believe there are several reasons. One reason is the challenge. Nobody, in their heart of hearts, is truly content with mediocrity. We enjoy pushing our bodies, our minds, and our spirits to their limits. In fact, truth be told, it is in those moments that we probably feel most alive. Maybe it is adrenaline, but I think there is something beyond that.
I believe we climb to these summits to experience God in His transcendence. When we look from Everest or another summit, we get a more robust understanding of the grandness of God. All of creation points us to the magnificent glory of God, if we just take the time to soak it in.
What are the summits you are seeking to experience more of God's supremacy in your life?
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Mom Around Thanksgiving
Over the Thanksgiving Holiday, I was able to spend time with much of my family. Unfortunately, my brother Chuck, his wife, and their son were not able to join us. But, my best friend on the planet (who is also a brother), Willie, was able to join us with his wife and Children for Thanksgiving. My sister and her husband were also there.
I didn't take many pictures during the time, but I definitely took time to appreciate all that was happening. I even cooked the turkey!!! Of course everybody was a little concerned because they had questions about my culinary abilities. Their concern turned to joy when they tasted that bird!!! It was delicious, and made for an extra blessing for everyone. (I guess I am not a bad chef).
Mom's had a bit of a tough time because her chemo testing has been delayed for the next couple of weeks while she waits to take a test and get results. Her spirits are up, and I think she really enjoyed having a full house for thanksgiving. Willie's children are like her grandchildren, and Sue is like a daughter to her too.
It was really cool just being able to have so many of us together to celebrate the holiday. Mom is as radiant as ever. It would have been great to have my brother Chuck and his family around too, but perhaps that will happen in the near future.
For all who have been praying, thanks for that gift of grace you have given us. My mom is doing great through everything, and it is your prayers that are making the difference!
I hope you also were able to savour the thanksgiving holiday amidst people you love deeply. Even if you didn't take photos, take time right now and savour that memory. What did you eat? What did people talk about? Who where you with? Were you thankful? Are you now?
Times with loved ones are precious--cherish them!
I didn't take many pictures during the time, but I definitely took time to appreciate all that was happening. I even cooked the turkey!!! Of course everybody was a little concerned because they had questions about my culinary abilities. Their concern turned to joy when they tasted that bird!!! It was delicious, and made for an extra blessing for everyone. (I guess I am not a bad chef).
Mom's had a bit of a tough time because her chemo testing has been delayed for the next couple of weeks while she waits to take a test and get results. Her spirits are up, and I think she really enjoyed having a full house for thanksgiving. Willie's children are like her grandchildren, and Sue is like a daughter to her too.
It was really cool just being able to have so many of us together to celebrate the holiday. Mom is as radiant as ever. It would have been great to have my brother Chuck and his family around too, but perhaps that will happen in the near future.
For all who have been praying, thanks for that gift of grace you have given us. My mom is doing great through everything, and it is your prayers that are making the difference!
I hope you also were able to savour the thanksgiving holiday amidst people you love deeply. Even if you didn't take photos, take time right now and savour that memory. What did you eat? What did people talk about? Who where you with? Were you thankful? Are you now?
Times with loved ones are precious--cherish them!
Monday, November 27, 2006
Illumination
While traveling with my family last Fall, we came upon this beautiful valley in Letchworth State Park.
Teere was a huge rain storm that cleared up just as we entered into the 13 mile park that is called the Grand Canyon of the East. It was probably the high point of our vacation to Niagara Falls. (Ironic that Niagara wasn't the high point.)
Lately I have been thinking a lot about light. In this picture, look at how the sun seems to bring life into the upper right hand corner of the photo. This whole valley is filled with color but only the spot where light is shining is fully appreciated.
Last night, my friend cameron talked about advent at church. He talked about how Jesus is the logos and the light. Until we allow ourselves to be vulnerable under the light of Jesus, none of our beauty will fully be made manifest. And when we let that light emanate from us to others, we help them to see both the beauty and the ugliness that potentially lie in the darkness. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Are you letting the light of Christ shine into you and bring out the beauty that He has built into you? And, are you allowing the streams of living water to emanate from you to bring light and healing to others?
Teere was a huge rain storm that cleared up just as we entered into the 13 mile park that is called the Grand Canyon of the East. It was probably the high point of our vacation to Niagara Falls. (Ironic that Niagara wasn't the high point.)
Lately I have been thinking a lot about light. In this picture, look at how the sun seems to bring life into the upper right hand corner of the photo. This whole valley is filled with color but only the spot where light is shining is fully appreciated.
Last night, my friend cameron talked about advent at church. He talked about how Jesus is the logos and the light. Until we allow ourselves to be vulnerable under the light of Jesus, none of our beauty will fully be made manifest. And when we let that light emanate from us to others, we help them to see both the beauty and the ugliness that potentially lie in the darkness. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Are you letting the light of Christ shine into you and bring out the beauty that He has built into you? And, are you allowing the streams of living water to emanate from you to bring light and healing to others?
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Kneeling in Study
Last night I walked in on my dad reading. He was kneeling at the foot of his bed, and reading the Bible. When I saw him like this, I couldn't help but be touched. This image speaks volumes for his reverence for God and his Word. It also speaks to me of humility. My dad is a strong man, and during moments like this I see a gentleness and tenderness that not many people see. At least not until this picture.
How do you approach the sacred text? Do you approach it in humility, or as though entering a chore?
I love my dad.
How do you approach the sacred text? Do you approach it in humility, or as though entering a chore?
I love my dad.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Father's Instruction
For as long as I can remember, my dad has been sharing insights with me and my siblings. He and my mom have shared a lot of wisdom over the years, and to my shame I have not always been a good listener.
I just started reading the book of Proverbs this weekend. The book starts out with a little exhortation. "Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching," The book of proverbs is meant to be words of wisdom passed from fathers to children.
Often we ignore wise counsel when it is presented to us. Sometimes my parents have been wrong about things, but regardless, we do have book full of warnings and words of wisdom that equip us to fully enjoy life abundantly.
Shamefully, we miss out on the treasure of good counsel from our Creator. Shamefully, we often ignore the wisdom that many counselors bring us when making decisions. It doesn't have to be this way. At any moment, we can commence listening and following wise counsel, or we can stop.
What are you doing right now?
I just started reading the book of Proverbs this weekend. The book starts out with a little exhortation. "Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching," The book of proverbs is meant to be words of wisdom passed from fathers to children.
Often we ignore wise counsel when it is presented to us. Sometimes my parents have been wrong about things, but regardless, we do have book full of warnings and words of wisdom that equip us to fully enjoy life abundantly.
Shamefully, we miss out on the treasure of good counsel from our Creator. Shamefully, we often ignore the wisdom that many counselors bring us when making decisions. It doesn't have to be this way. At any moment, we can commence listening and following wise counsel, or we can stop.
What are you doing right now?
People of the Book
In the last couple of weeks, God has been revitalizing my passion for the sacred scriptures. As followers of Jesus, our life becomes shaped by the story of this text. This becomes our story, our history, and our connection with the past in a very unconventional way.
Christians have been called the People of the Book because of the centrality of this story to the shaping of our understanding of the world in which we live, move, and have our being.
I heard this quote recently about the scriptures that has really made me think about the place the Bible has in our lives.
"This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book."
So the question we might want to ask ourselves when we feel our passion for being shaped by this text start to wane is simple. What other thing has captivated our heart? What is enticing us away?
Christians have been called the People of the Book because of the centrality of this story to the shaping of our understanding of the world in which we live, move, and have our being.
I heard this quote recently about the scriptures that has really made me think about the place the Bible has in our lives.
"This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book."
So the question we might want to ask ourselves when we feel our passion for being shaped by this text start to wane is simple. What other thing has captivated our heart? What is enticing us away?
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Sunshine and Shadow
I fell asleep to a heavy rain last night, and woke up to more of the same. Then, at some point this afternoon the clouds broke, and the sun began shining. It feels like spring, but it looks like late autumn in Morgantown.
It's amazing how bright the sky is, and yet much of the landscape is dwelling in shadows. So much of our world is like this--it dwells in shadow, just waiting for light to illuminate it and either expose its ugliness or reveal its beauty.
Aren't our lives more of the same? We're like icebergs--only 10% exposed. We are in need of illumination as well. There is a beauty that lies dormant in each one of us, just waiting to be revealed. And yet, there are aspects of our lives that we enjoy keeping in the shadows for fear of being exposed. But those areas can only be dealt with when they are brought to light. Maybe if we spent a little more time in the light, we would have a much brighter world, because we would radiate beauty instead of hiding in shadow.
It's amazing how bright the sky is, and yet much of the landscape is dwelling in shadows. So much of our world is like this--it dwells in shadow, just waiting for light to illuminate it and either expose its ugliness or reveal its beauty.
Aren't our lives more of the same? We're like icebergs--only 10% exposed. We are in need of illumination as well. There is a beauty that lies dormant in each one of us, just waiting to be revealed. And yet, there are aspects of our lives that we enjoy keeping in the shadows for fear of being exposed. But those areas can only be dealt with when they are brought to light. Maybe if we spent a little more time in the light, we would have a much brighter world, because we would radiate beauty instead of hiding in shadow.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Mom After a Long Day at the Cancer Center
Today was supposed to be mom's fifth dose. She was a little leery this morning that she wouldn't be able to get her chemotherapy. She's had a cough and shortness of breath for the last couple of weeks, and she was a little concerned about it.
So was the doctor. When she arrived, he brought her directly into his office, and had her get an x-ray to check for a possible blood clot in her lungs. The x-ray came up negative. He also did standard bloodwork, and my mom is pretty healthy. She is a little on the anemic side, but that is fairly common among American Indian people.
While the doctor was glad to see the negative x-ray, he wanted to be extra sure about things, so my mom had a CT scan of her chest. Again the results were negative--which was good. The doctor did notice some congestion in the lungs, so my mom is on a diuretic to try to get rid of the fluid.
The doctor also noticed what looked like a potential enlargement of her heart. (This is a possible side effects of one of the chemo drugs.)
Tomorrow morning she goes in for an echocardiogram. Friday she finds out the results, and so for the time being she is on hold for chemotherapy. Hopefully she will be able to get her dose Friday or Monday.
In the meantime, she has been tired, and a day of tests doesn't help that. But her disposition is as bright as ever. She is so filled with joy in the middle of it all, and peace and hope just radiate from her beautiful countenance.
to quote Stevie Wonder, "Isn't she lovely?" (By the way, I have been singing that to her all day.)
So was the doctor. When she arrived, he brought her directly into his office, and had her get an x-ray to check for a possible blood clot in her lungs. The x-ray came up negative. He also did standard bloodwork, and my mom is pretty healthy. She is a little on the anemic side, but that is fairly common among American Indian people.
While the doctor was glad to see the negative x-ray, he wanted to be extra sure about things, so my mom had a CT scan of her chest. Again the results were negative--which was good. The doctor did notice some congestion in the lungs, so my mom is on a diuretic to try to get rid of the fluid.
The doctor also noticed what looked like a potential enlargement of her heart. (This is a possible side effects of one of the chemo drugs.)
Tomorrow morning she goes in for an echocardiogram. Friday she finds out the results, and so for the time being she is on hold for chemotherapy. Hopefully she will be able to get her dose Friday or Monday.
In the meantime, she has been tired, and a day of tests doesn't help that. But her disposition is as bright as ever. She is so filled with joy in the middle of it all, and peace and hope just radiate from her beautiful countenance.
to quote Stevie Wonder, "Isn't she lovely?" (By the way, I have been singing that to her all day.)
Friday, November 10, 2006
Famiy Fun
I took this shot two or three weeks ago while walking with my dad, brother-in-law, and sister in Parkersburg. There is this place called fort boreman park that we started going to this summer. I can't help but think that people have been going to this place for a long time. It has a great view of the Ohio River ande Blennerhassett Island. My dad and I go there almost every time I make it home now.
I like this picture because it reminds of me of simple good things like family and good stories. Things we tend to take for granted in a world that is constantly telling us that we need more things to be happy.
I haven't been able to blog much this week because of limited internet access, but I've had so much to think about, write about, and reflect upon. I've been on the road for about 1500 miles this week, and it seems like I have had a lot of time to reflect, pray, and enjoy solitude and silence.
I think many times our world and life is so fast paced that we rarely take time to enjoy what is happening around us. We rarely find ourselves in a place to reflect. It's a bit ironic, but it seems like it's largely when my life is travelling at 65-70mph that it feels like things slow down a bit for me.
How do you slow down to enjoy life and laughter in a fast-paced world?
I like this picture because it reminds of me of simple good things like family and good stories. Things we tend to take for granted in a world that is constantly telling us that we need more things to be happy.
I haven't been able to blog much this week because of limited internet access, but I've had so much to think about, write about, and reflect upon. I've been on the road for about 1500 miles this week, and it seems like I have had a lot of time to reflect, pray, and enjoy solitude and silence.
I think many times our world and life is so fast paced that we rarely take time to enjoy what is happening around us. We rarely find ourselves in a place to reflect. It's a bit ironic, but it seems like it's largely when my life is travelling at 65-70mph that it feels like things slow down a bit for me.
How do you slow down to enjoy life and laughter in a fast-paced world?
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Sunset on Lake Erie
I took this picture last fall in the Canandian village Niagara on the Lake. I just love the way the sun is setting along the shoreline of Lake Erie.
I've been close to lake Erie for most of the last 24 hours. Not close enough to see it, but close enough to feel it. I don't know if that quite makes sense, but it is like I could sense something larger than me very close to me, but I couldn't quite directly see see it. I even drove by an exit ramp that leads to a bridge to Canada.
I think that's the way it can be for us with God sometimes too. Most of us have a vague sense that God is somewhere out there, but we can't quite figure it out. The apostle Paul tells us that we might feel our way to God and find Him if we only seek Him, because He is not far from us. It's a pretty wild thought really.
It's like God is withholding Himself just waiting for us to seek. As we seek He reveals. It's not a matter of earning some privilege, It's almost like He opens our eyes to see and experience as we yield ourselves to Him.
So, if you aren't experiencing God beyond just a vague sense that He is there, perhaps He wants you to spend some time seeking His face. According to Isiaiah the prophet, God longs to be gracious to you, and He reserves a special blessing for those who long for Him. Take some time to seek God and freshly experience His grace and mercy. It's more beautiful, refreshing, and enjoyable than a sunset on Lake Erie.
I've been close to lake Erie for most of the last 24 hours. Not close enough to see it, but close enough to feel it. I don't know if that quite makes sense, but it is like I could sense something larger than me very close to me, but I couldn't quite directly see see it. I even drove by an exit ramp that leads to a bridge to Canada.
I think that's the way it can be for us with God sometimes too. Most of us have a vague sense that God is somewhere out there, but we can't quite figure it out. The apostle Paul tells us that we might feel our way to God and find Him if we only seek Him, because He is not far from us. It's a pretty wild thought really.
It's like God is withholding Himself just waiting for us to seek. As we seek He reveals. It's not a matter of earning some privilege, It's almost like He opens our eyes to see and experience as we yield ourselves to Him.
So, if you aren't experiencing God beyond just a vague sense that He is there, perhaps He wants you to spend some time seeking His face. According to Isiaiah the prophet, God longs to be gracious to you, and He reserves a special blessing for those who long for Him. Take some time to seek God and freshly experience His grace and mercy. It's more beautiful, refreshing, and enjoyable than a sunset on Lake Erie.
Plans, Car Wrecks, God, and Character Development
So yesterday, I left super early to get to a conference. I left with plenty of time to spare so I could relax and maybe enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal in Toledo or Detroit (I've never been to either town, so I thought it might make for a refreshing break from my driving. Well God had something different in store. In fact, instead of a relaxing journey, I was stuck in traffic for between two and three hours a few miles north of the Ohio border in Michigan. Before the traffic jam, I was taken on a detour that added an extra 30 minutes to my trip. And then, when I finally made it to my final destination, it appears that I went to the wrong location, and so I spent an extra 30 minutes trying to contact someone to get directions to the location of the conference. My map directions took me to a location about half a mile away from the event, and so I had to call people and back track. I was tired, hungry, and frustrated by the time I arrived, which was actually the perfectly place for me to be. Why was this perfect? Because it served as a reminder to me of what a selfish, impatient, prideful, easily irritated, and wicked person I am when I choose not to keep Christ as the center of my life. I will gravitate toward selfishness everytime.
The reason why I was in a traffic jam was because of acollision resulting in fatality that happened early Monday morning on I-75. No matter how early or late I would have left, I would have been stuck in traffic with thousands of other people. Somebody lost his life in that accident, and that's a reality we seldom consider when we are stuck in traffic. Usually we are centered on the inconvenience it causes us. Yesterday, for some reason I was very aware of the severity of the accident, and my heart definitely goes out to the families of all those who were involved. I mean, what did I really lose in the accident--a little time. And yet, when I think about it, most of us are so selfish that we aren't even concerned about the severity of things going on around us. One man lost his life, but the rest of us only lost a little time, and even that time could be constructive. Maybe we need to learn to slow down and not be in a rush (but that's another thought for another blog).
By the time I had arrived in this traffic jam, cleanup of the accident was well underway. It involved three semis, so it took about 12 hours total. I gave some time to reflect on what might be going on up the road, but for the most part I was in my own little world.
It's funny how quickly things we enjoy can become idols or distractions. I had been listening to my Brett Cain and Keane CDs earlier on the drive, and thoroughly enjoying them for the good music that they were. When I was stuck in traffic, I got bored. I wanted to pull out my cell phone, but I don't have service in Michigan. I wanted to listen to music, but I found that the music wasn't as satisfying as it had been earlier. I wanted to get out of the car, but I was already getting a little light headed from all of the exhaust fumes I was breathing in on the interstate. I even wanted to start memorizing scripture (that's godly--right?), but I couldn't focus on anything. In the middle of all of that attempted distraction, God met me, and confronted me about my character, and my willingness to run to distractions instead of running to the loving arms of Jesus.
Why are we like this? I don't think I am alone in this struggle against distractions. I couldn't help but thank God in the middle of my frustration because His grace is sufficent for me to stand in the middle of trying circumstances. In the middle of this explosion, and this traffic jam, God was willing to bear with me, and work on my character. As much as I wanted to have some relax time, God wanted me to be confronted with my proneness to wander. What do you run to be distracted? What beautiful thing do you allow to become an idol? How do we recognize these things when they come on our radar?
Just a few thoughts from a long and character developing day on the road.
16 oz of delicious goodness
Ok, I normally wouldn't blog about something like this, but it is soooooo good. I'm currently in Ann Arbor Michigan at a conference. But, on my way to the conference I stopped at a Starbucks in Canonsburg, PA for a little java for the journey.
So I asked them the big question--are they serving chai eggnog lattes yet? The answer was YES!!! This is like my all-time favorite seasonal coffee drink. Literally it just tasted soooo good when it hit my lips.
It tasted so good that I had to call someone. So I called my mom, just to tell her how good this drink tasted. I was in pure ecstasy with one drink. I highly recommend this drink if you get the opportunity to partake of it.
And while I am on the subject of delicious drinks. Is there anything that you have ever eaten or drunk that has taken your tastebuds into a virtual party? As I slowly sipped this drink (you don't want to drink it too fast--it's hot, and plus you want to savor the flavor), I thought to myself, I bet there are lots of chai eggnog lattes to be drunk in heaven. I can only hope.
But now we see in a glass dimly. So that means that whatever we enjoy in the present, things are going to be even better when the Kingdom is fully realized. I'm looking forward to it for sure, but in the meantime, I've got two months to enjoy these chai eggnog lattes!!!
So I asked them the big question--are they serving chai eggnog lattes yet? The answer was YES!!! This is like my all-time favorite seasonal coffee drink. Literally it just tasted soooo good when it hit my lips.
It tasted so good that I had to call someone. So I called my mom, just to tell her how good this drink tasted. I was in pure ecstasy with one drink. I highly recommend this drink if you get the opportunity to partake of it.
And while I am on the subject of delicious drinks. Is there anything that you have ever eaten or drunk that has taken your tastebuds into a virtual party? As I slowly sipped this drink (you don't want to drink it too fast--it's hot, and plus you want to savor the flavor), I thought to myself, I bet there are lots of chai eggnog lattes to be drunk in heaven. I can only hope.
But now we see in a glass dimly. So that means that whatever we enjoy in the present, things are going to be even better when the Kingdom is fully realized. I'm looking forward to it for sure, but in the meantime, I've got two months to enjoy these chai eggnog lattes!!!
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Picture of Jesus
I'm not sure how much accessibility I will have for blogging this week. I am leaving in the morning for two conferences in Michigan.
But, before I left, I figured I would take time to write a little something. Tonight at h2o, we had an artist by the name of Seth Hill come in and paint this picture. It started as just a rough sketch that looked like a landscape of some sort. And gradually it became a picture of Jesus.
It makes me think of the Ben Harper song of the same title. We all long to be a picture of Jesus. In fact, that is our calling. We are to become like Jesus, and be an image of what our life would be like if Jesus were to live it.
In all honesty we are a lot like Seth's picture. Initially there is not a lot of form to us. We are in disarray. Our lives are a mess. But as Jesus gets hold of our hearts, slowly we are changed. We move from being a mess to being more like Him.
Are you becoming more like Jesus? On top of being God in the flesh, Jesus is the perfect example of what a human life can be like. If you think about your life right now, and project five years down the road you won't be the same person you are today. You'll either be becoming more fully human (like Jesus), or more fully inhuman. So which are you going to be? I hope that I am becoming more fully human with each day.
But, before I left, I figured I would take time to write a little something. Tonight at h2o, we had an artist by the name of Seth Hill come in and paint this picture. It started as just a rough sketch that looked like a landscape of some sort. And gradually it became a picture of Jesus.
It makes me think of the Ben Harper song of the same title. We all long to be a picture of Jesus. In fact, that is our calling. We are to become like Jesus, and be an image of what our life would be like if Jesus were to live it.
In all honesty we are a lot like Seth's picture. Initially there is not a lot of form to us. We are in disarray. Our lives are a mess. But as Jesus gets hold of our hearts, slowly we are changed. We move from being a mess to being more like Him.
Are you becoming more like Jesus? On top of being God in the flesh, Jesus is the perfect example of what a human life can be like. If you think about your life right now, and project five years down the road you won't be the same person you are today. You'll either be becoming more fully human (like Jesus), or more fully inhuman. So which are you going to be? I hope that I am becoming more fully human with each day.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
West Virginia Huffman and Me
Last night, my friend cameron had a costume/birthday party at his house. It was a lot of fun, and there were plenty of meatball sandwiches for everyone (it's a cameron king birthday party tradition!)
Nothing really deep to say here. Just me and my good buddy ryan posing for the popparazzi.
Birthdays are great days to celebrate though. God says that he knew us when we were in our mother's womb. But nobody else really had a chance to meet us until we were born. Take time to celebrate the people God has brought into your world today. What a gift that he has given each of us.
I have been thinking about the wonderful people I've become friends with over the years. It is the providence of God that people come into our life. He appoints the times and locations where we will live (Acts 17.26). God, in His providence has allowed me to meet so many wonderful people from virtually every corner of the globe.
Have you ever taken the time to consider the divine appointments God has brought into your life? There aren't chance meetings--it's God's providence that determines where we will be, and who we will meet there. Think about that--what a wonderful Creator to do something so amazing!
Nothing really deep to say here. Just me and my good buddy ryan posing for the popparazzi.
Birthdays are great days to celebrate though. God says that he knew us when we were in our mother's womb. But nobody else really had a chance to meet us until we were born. Take time to celebrate the people God has brought into your world today. What a gift that he has given each of us.
I have been thinking about the wonderful people I've become friends with over the years. It is the providence of God that people come into our life. He appoints the times and locations where we will live (Acts 17.26). God, in His providence has allowed me to meet so many wonderful people from virtually every corner of the globe.
Have you ever taken the time to consider the divine appointments God has brought into your life? There aren't chance meetings--it's God's providence that determines where we will be, and who we will meet there. Think about that--what a wonderful Creator to do something so amazing!
WVU Basketball Recruiting
I just saw this video on youtube, and well, I think every person in the state fell in love with this team. The video is a little bit long, but I'm sure it will bring to mind some great memories of the 2004-05 season. Let's go Mountaineers--basketball season is just around the corner!!!
I just saw this video on youtube, and well, I think every person in the state fell in love with this team. The video is a little bit long, but I'm sure it will bring to mind some great memories of the 2004-05 season. Let's go Mountaineers--basketball season is just around the corner!!!
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Another tradition I have is walking around the city a bit anytime I take a metro into the city. It was a bit colder monday than I would have liked, but it was still great to walk around. I even had an opportunity to visit a Starbucks that I usually go to with my friends--it's in the old firehouse, and I think I first went to that one with our Amsterdam mission team from 2003.
I walked to 1600 pennsylvania avenue while I was there, and I snapped this picture. Of course it's a familiar sight, and I as I stood there, I thought about the weight of responsibility carried by the folks who have lived there over the years. What a powerful office, and what an immense responsibility.
The city is all a buzz with the scooter libby trial, and interestingly as the linked article alludes, bloggers are playing a role in covering the trial.
It's exciting to see this wave of technology begin to catch on. It's exciting to see how much it is being used, and how it can help shape and inform our world. I guess bloggers all over the world share a tremendous responsibility and a powerful office as well.
Come to think of it, we all bear a responsibility and a powerful office as people made in the image of God. We're supposed to reflect something of who He is to one another. Sometimes, I wonder how we are doing with that . . . how are you doing with that?