The Endless Search

No Yesterdays? Really?

2012-01-15T22:27:00.000-05:00

"He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west." - Psalm 103:12

If you have a globe handy, I want you to put your finger on the equator. What? You don't own a globe? Are you serious? Who doesn't own one? Oh wait. I don't either. How about you download Google Earth then? Did you download it yet? I am seriously waiting here. (Tapping fingers on the desk.)

Okay. Now that you have it. Find the equator. Now, follow it around and find the end of it. Hint: You won't find it because there's isn't an end. Period.

Do you understand this verse then? Do you believe in it? You know at the time of the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus (who sailed the ocean blue in the year 1492...or something like that), it was believed that if you sailed west too far you would literally fall off the planet.

I know. I'm with you. It's hard to believe that now, isn't it? In fact, we usually label it as a "silly superstition." Come on, you know you have!

I must be honest with you. I struggle often with temptation. I struggle more as I watch it way too often turn into sin. I speak as if it happens to me...as if I have no choice in the matter. This is the hardest sentence to type, in fact, because the truth is.........I do have a choice. And I continue to make the wrong one.

But what is worse than that? They are temptations and sins I thought I left behind me. The Bible talks about how when we become a Christian that we become a "new creation." 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:The old has gone, the new is here!" So why does this stuff hang around? Why can't I get rid of it? And more importantly, why is God so willing to continue to cast my sins away forever and basically forget them? Why does He even care about giving me a second chance?

The simple and TRUE answer is this: God LOVES us! He loves us SO much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to die so that we would not have to pay the penalty of sin: death. Yes. I know you've heard of John 3:16. But have you ever had the opportunity to hear of this one?

"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8

Are you kidding me? You mean I don't have to get some "religious" test right first? You mean that God will accept me for who I am no matter where I am in my life?

"...as far as the east is from the west."

Some many years ago, back in the 90's, there was this group called East to West. It had these two guys Neal Coomer and Jay DeMarcus. They made two CD's and then broke up. On a side note, Jay is now playing bass guitar and doing harmony vocals for one of my favorite country music groups, Rascal Flatts.

I got the opportunity to see East to West in concert when they came to Flint, Michigan all those years ago. I'll never forget a song from that concert. It was entitled "No Yesterdays." Here are the lyrics to this song:

The scene was so familar
The questions nothing new
I prayed, Lord can You forgive me
For what I've put You through
Though the sins that I surrendered
Were just too much to forget
Jesus must have known my struggle
Cause He looked at me and said

CHORUS
I can't remember yesterday
All of your sins are washed away
And all that really matters now
Is living for today
As you reach toward tomorrow
Just remember there are
No yesterdays

I guest it's only human
To doubt from time to time
When you face the same temptations
You thought you'd left behind
But when sins you still remember
Take you back to where you've been
You just need to be reminded
Of His promise once again

And even if the road you walk has led you far away
You'll find the door is open and I'm waiting just to say

I looked all over for music on the Internet and could not locate anything, not even a YouTube video. So then I had to hunt for the CD I bought at that concert. I really wanted for you to listen to it, too. Here it is. I pray that you will find peace as you rest on the words of the psalmist and hopefully you will believe with me that God loves you THAT much!

2011 Reading List

2012-01-01T12:33:00.001-05:00

Here is what I read in 2011. I received my Kindle in September for my birthday. However, this actually caused more problem than good. I found out how to get free books and then Amazon opened it up so you could get library books. Before I knew it, I was reading 3 library books and then my Sunday School class started a book I bought, so I had 4 books I was reading on the Kindle. I started about 2 others in the Christian Non-Fiction genre. Whew! AND I read 1 "real" book and I'm in the middle of another. Now add to this that I have a slight CDO (alphabetized) problem and.... Oh bother. I think you get the picture.

So without any further ado, here's the list for 2011:

Title	Author	# of Pages
The Last Days	Joel C. Rosenberg	384	January
Sabotaged	Margaret Peterson Haddix	377	February
The Ezekiel Option	Joel C. Rosenberg	319	February
Just Beyond The Clouds	Karen Kingsbury	324	May
Percy Jackson : The Sea of Monsters	Rick Riordan	340	May
The Hunger Games	Suzanne Collins	374	May
The Priest's Graveyard	Ted Dekker	368	June
The Breach	Patrick Lee	384	June
The Witness	Dee Henderson	378	June
The Scarpetta Factor	Patricia Cornwell	512	June
Catching Fire	Suzanne Collins	391	July
Love Wins	Rob Bell	224	July
First King of Shannara	Terry Brooks	489	September
Going Rogue	Sarah Palin	432	September
Above the Line: Take One	Karen Kingsbury	288	September
Mockingjay	Suzanne Collins	400	September
Torn	Margaret Peterson Haddix	344	October
Choosing To See: A Journey of Struggle and Hope	Mary Beth Chapman	288	November
The Invention of Hugo Cabret	Brian Selznick	533	November


	TOTAL PAGES:	7149

Truth and Twilight

2011-11-29T08:39:00.001-05:00

This morning, my friend posted the following video on his Facebook page. I chuckled a little, then clicked on the play button. When I saw that it was almost 14 minutes, I almost turned it off because I needed to head off to work. I'm so glad I didn't do it.

We live in a world where Truth is forever changing and being redefined. We are told that there are no absolutes, that Truth is relative to the age, time, place, etc. I've always thought Mr. Driscoll to be a little radical in his presentation. That is until I watched this video and listened to his heart as he started out talking about his preteen daughter and how much she loves to read.

It immediately brought to the forefront of my mind, my little two year old bundle of adorable cuteness. And as the video continued, I wondered how well we, as parents, grandparents and caregivers, are protecting our children from Satan's grasp.

I must encourage you to watch this video. It begins with what Amazon.com thought the reading list should be to a preteen girl. It's important, but I think the "main course" starts at about 6min 25sec. There is some truth there that I think we've begun to ignore. And it's not JUST about the books.

The main issue is that every time we come to the line that I believe God has drawn we think we have the "right" or "knowledge" that allows us to pick up that line and move it farther from where we currently stand. I am speaking from experience here, friends! But look at my statement above! Where else did this kind of "knowledge" get the human race in trouble? Remember Genesis? Adam and Eve? What was the name of the tree that they were not supposed to eat from? And what was it that serpent said? "Surely you will not die."

I want to thank you for the time you took to read this and to watch the clip below. God bless you.

The warrior is a Child

2011-07-18T06:42:00.002-04:00

The words of the old Twila Paris song runs over and over in my mind. I've just come out of a huge purge. A ball of a man...sweat...tears and many thoughts of shouting as He approached, "I'M UNCLEAN! I'M UNCLEAN! DON'T YOU KNOW YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO TOUCH ME?"

But He came anyway. He loved anyway. He touched anyway. And as I continued to struggle. As I continued to hide my face from His, He gently touched my arm.

"But you don't know what I've done! You don't know who I've hurt...YOU DON'T KNOW!" I cried to Him again.

Then suddenly as clear as can be comes the image of Him on the Cross. The blood dripping from His head. The nails ripping into His flesh. And I scream, knowing already the answer in the back of my mind and heart, "WHY? WHY DID YOU LET THEM DO THIS?"

And in the next moment He is again right beside me. The scars are still there. The pain of my sin and my wrong in His eyes...but then...almost like "magic" that pain disappears. He speaks in the most softest tone imaginable. His eyes will not let up. He continues to look beyond mine into the very depths of my being. "You ARE mine now." He says.

"NO I am not..." I get ready to continue, but He lovingly puts a finger to my lips to hush me.

"Be still." Then He places His hands onto my face. The scars...the scars of the nails. That MY sin...MY wrong...MY hate... And then He speaks again into my heart, yet His mouth doesn't move. "You ARE mine. I love YOU. I died FOR you."

The dam holding the surge of my emotions bursts and all I can do is sob and sob and sob. "OH LORD! PLEASE FORGIVE ME!"

His arms wrap around me and my body heaves with sorrow, with pain, with frustration. Finally, with a wee little voice I say, "Don't leave me. I need you."

"They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
'Cause deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child"

"I drop my sword and look up for a smile
'Cause deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
The Warrior is a Child"

God is always waiting for us. But it's our move to make.

The Point of Grace

2011-05-10T01:29:00.000-04:00

If you need someone to pray for you, feel free to post your request here. It will be prayed for...I guarantee it.

I Needed This...Before I Knew I Needed It!

2011-04-05T23:05:00.000-04:00

On March 23, 2011, I posted this note on Facebook:

______________________________________________________________________
This past few weeks has been crazy busy. I can't begin to tell you everything and perhaps some of you would not want to hear them anyway. But let's just say I have struggled. I have felt worthless. Unneeded, Unwanted, unloved. Circumstances were out of my control. Problems seemed unsolvable. I've cried out to the Lord. I've asked many, many people to pray and these have helped.

I love poetry. I love the heart that drips from the pen onto the page. My two favorite poets are Robert Frost and Helen Steiner Rice. I'm pretty certain that you've heard of Mr. Frost. Not so sure about Ms. Rice. I discovered her one day when I was at my Grandma's house. She had a book that was a collection of Ms. Rice' poetry. I asked her if I could borrow it and of course, how could she say no to her first born grandson?

I read through every page, but stopped when I came to a poem entitled, "The End of the Road is But a Bend in the Road."
It grabbed a hold of me like God was putting His hands on my arms and staring me in the eye (like most parents do to their children).

Well, after the struggles I've had the past few weeks, I felt led to open my collection of Helen Steiner Rice and look up this poem. I didn't get through half of it before tears flowed. It was clearly a message to me from God that I needed to hear. I want to share those words with you.

THE END OF THE ROAD IS BUT A BEND IN THE ROAD

When we feel we have nothing left to give
and we are sure that the song has ended,
When our day seems over and the shadows fall
and the darkness of night has descended,
Where can we go to find the strength
to valiantly keep on trying?
Where can we find the hand that will dry
the tears that the heart is crying?
There's but one place to go and that is to God,
and, dropping all pretense and pride,
We can pour out our problems without restraint
and gain strength with Him at our side...
And together we stand at life's crossroads
and view what we think is the end,
But God has a much bigger vision,
and He tells us it's only a bend...
For the road goes on and is smoother
and the pause in the song is a rest,
And the part that's unsung or unfinished
is the sweetest and richest and best...
So rest and relax and grow stronger--
let go and let God share your load.
Your work is not finished or ended--
you've just come to a bend in the road.
______________________________________________________________________

Only God knew that did I not only need it then, but I would need a week after and now almost two weeks after. It is late and I should be in bed. But the pain is still there. It isn't a sharp, twisting kind, but the dull-throbbing-in-the-pit-of-your-heart kind. That which leaves a huge hole in you.

I think what Ms. Rice forgot to add to that poem is the part where you are at the bend in the road and you now have to make your feet keep walking on it. Especially when all they want to do is keep going the same direction as before!

I know God is able to do immeasurably more than I can think or imagine. He is a good God! But like any wound it will take some time to heal. And with the proper "medication" and healing....

I am reminded of a great song that I sang in a church not too long ago called "What A Friend We Have In Jesus." I remember now at the time just singing through the lyrics like I've done so many times before. Not really paying attention to the message of encouragement and hope.

The verse that stuck out to me was the third one:

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

I choose tonight as I go to sleep to continue to allow His arms to take and shield me. I choose to find solace there. Thank you, Jesus.

Super Bowl XLV - My Commercial Picks

2011-02-06T21:29:00.000-05:00

These are clearly the TOP of the TOP!

The Character of Glenn Beck....The Character of Truth

2011-01-19T21:08:00.001-05:00

I have mentioned many times that I'm not necessarily a fan of all that Glenn Beck does or says. I will admit I tend to agree with many of his philosophies including and especially focusing on us. We cannot change the world, but we can change us. We cannot change us without God's help. And the only way to do that is to seek truth. I believe that Truth will always prevail.

Please watch this clip. I believe this man has displayed honor and integrity. And note he has chosen not to play the "game." What do you think?

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

This is also good. I really like Dr. Ablow's dialogue here: “I think that people, media people included, want to dance around anything complicated and painful that takes tremendous effort to fix. Isn’t it easier to call people names and say that political rhetoric causes chaos or violence instead of looking at a shattered mental healthcare system, rolling up your sleeves and saying let’s get to work here?”

Take a look at this video:

The Intentional Journey

2011-01-18T01:18:00.001-05:00

Look what's going on! An adventure is starting over here at The Intentional Journey. You won't want to miss out!

To Vaccine or Not to Vaccine?

2011-01-14T07:11:00.000-05:00

Here is an article posted this morning to The Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, Indiana:

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Turnout low for immunizations

Grant County Public Health Nurse Kelly Mullen gives Justice Thurgood Marshall sixth-grade student Tara Gerstoff a shot at the health department Thursday morning. Rob Edwards / redwards@chronicle-tribune.com

At least 100 Marion H.S. kids still not vaccinated

By Mishele Wright
mdwright@chronicle-tribune.com

Published: Friday, January 14, 2011 1:07 AM EST

Marion Community Schools provided transportation to students Thursday to get their immunizations at the Grant County Health Department, but turnout was low, officials say.

Students were supposed to get their immunizations by the beginning of the school year, but several didn’t. School officials said if the kids didn’t have them by Monday, the students couldn’t attend school.

Before Thursday, about 150 students still needed to be immunized, said MCS Superintendent Steve Edwards. Out of the group, 22 turned in permission slips to travel on a school bus to get their shots Thursday. Only a handful of elementary and middle school children still need immunized, he said.

More kids will be transported to the health department today, but Edwards said out of at least 100 kids left at the high school, only 15 to 20 have turned in permission slips.

Edwards said he didn’t know why parents weren’t taking care of the issue. The school system provided transportation to accommodate parents.

“Obviously, we can’t make the parents do it,” he said.

He suggested some parents may be taking care of the immunizations on their own by taking their child to a physician.

Until the parents show proof of the immunizations, the kids are out of school. He said he didn’t know what the attendance rate was Thursday at the high school.

“We don’t have any choice,” he said. “It’s a state law, and it’s disappointing how parents don’t abide by that law.”

Edwards said he was hoping to have at least half of the kids immunized Thursday.

Amy Colgan, public health nurse at the health department, also said she expected the turnout to be higher.

“We should’ve done more,” she said. “I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

School and health officials pushed for parents to get the immunizations done over winter break, but only 22 came in during that time period, Colgan said.

“That was a far cry from what we had hoped for,” she said.

Colgan said the school system has been courteous to parents by extending the deadline and providing transportation during school hours. But the parents need to be accountable, she said.

Though nobody wants to prevent children from going to school, the system is just enforcing the law, Colgan said.

“This is January,” she said. “School started in August. They needed these in August. It’s Indiana law. There really isn’t any excuse.”

Parents can bring their child to the health department on their own. The health department is closed Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am disgusted by this. Why is it so important for this to happen? And at the expense of a child's education? I realize this is currently the Indiana (and many other states) law, so I'm not necessarily advocating for being unlawful. But there are indeed studies showing that the "crap" within the vaccines are not good and that they do indeed cause long-term harm. And is it okay to spend tax dollars to bus kids to the Health Department? And why does this trigger several red lights in the area of my conspiracy theorist brain?

Let me know what you think.

The 2010 Reading List and 2011 Resolutions

2011-01-01T08:44:00.003-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

My friend, Josh Howard, has been doing an annual reading list for the past five years. This year, I decided to keep track of what I read and the number of pages. My goal was to get closer to 10,000 pages. Unfortunately, I did not meet this goal. Life can be very busy. I can get lazy. Well, perhaps you know what I'm talking about. Josh also does a brief review of the top three. He reads for both Professional and Personal. I like to call those Fiction and Non-Fiction.

Here is my list:

Title	Author	# of Pages
Net Force	Tom Clancy	372
Shock Wave	Clive Cussler	567
Net Force : Hidden Agenda	Tom Clancy	366
Net Force : Night Moves	Tom Clancy	367
Dashing Through The Snow	Mary & Carol Higgins Clark	226
Cursed	Carol Higgins Clark	242
The Missing Book 1: Found	Margaret Peterson Haddix	314
The Missing Book 2: Sent	Margaret Peterson Haddix	313
Playing For Pizza	John Grisham	308
Eldest	Christopher Paolini	668
Brisingr	Christopher Paolini	760
Spiritual Warfare	Dr. Timothy Warner	143
The Lost Symbol	Dan Brown	509
Net Force : The Great Race (Teen)	Tom Clancy	181
The Last Jihad	Joel C. Rosenberg	335






	TOTAL PAGES:	5671

I also have a problem in that I read several books at once. So what is not on the list are those that I'm reading but haven't finished. I would like to put those titles here in hopes that they will be on next year's list of completions:

The Five Thousand Year Leap - W. Cleon Skousen
Men and Women: Equal Yet Different - Alexander Strauch
The Christmas Box Miracle - Richard Paul Evans
The Total Money Makeover - Dave Ramsey
The Last Days - Joel C Rosenberg
The Overton Window - Glenn Beck

This also doesn't include the three Chronicles of Narnia books that I read to my kids. I didn't think it right to include these, but wanted to share with you. I hope by the end of 2011 that we will have finished all seven of these wonderful books of adventure!

Now for my 2011 RESOLUTIONS!
I usually don't do resolutions because: a)I don't tend to accomplish them and b)I think they can be pretty stupid. The Bible says we are vapor or a mist here today and gone tomorrow. I'm not sure it so necessary to record every year of your life as God already knows it. I'm always growing anyway because I'm terrible at self-analyzing my every step, word, etc. This year I felt like perhaps God is leading me to set them. And when God directs I must obey. Here are my 2011 resolutions:

1) To study the Bible more. I have a passion for words (most of you know I'm never without them - ha!) and so this year I purchased a Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible. I'm so excited about it as I dive into God's Word and take the time to learn more about Him. I promise this isn't a cliche and I'm sure this is on many of your lists. I know I need to spend the time. I remember once a good college friend singing "I Miss My Time With You." Yeah, it's been playing a lot in my head.

2) I want to grow in my prayer time. Yes, I know. Go ahead and roll your eyes. This is another one that tends to be on many lists. Last year, I had the privilege of sitting under a learned man in this area. I'm so thankful for his tutelage. I want to spend time looking through my notes again. Then my heart is calling me to take on the challenge he gave to us last year. It's time to start prayer walking in my neighborhood.

There are a few others, but these are the two that are heavy on my heart. And since I believe God's Word is true. The first from Matthew 6:33 should fall into place IF I'm obedient and steady to walk in these two.

Here are the minor ones:

3) Memorize and prepare an Easter dramatic monologue. I've never actually done one of these, but I'm determined. I want to add this to my list.

4) Get permission from an author to turn his book into a play. This one might seem lofty, but believe it or not, I've done it before, but failed to write the script. This year I will do what I can to accomplish the goal.

There you have it! I do hope that you will take the time to pray with me and for me so that I may grow in these areas.

I want to wish you all a very Happy New Year! May God bless you and your families!

Becky Kelley - Where's the Line to See Jesus - OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

2010-12-02T23:26:00.000-05:00

A powerful song. Perhaps it's time to take Santa out of the Christmas tradition and put Jesus Christ where He belongs.

Changes for Christmas

2010-12-02T13:52:00.000-05:00

I am not so good with change. In fact, I hate it. Once there is a plan set, I get pretty cranky when it's rearranged. Call me a control freak or perhaps I'm just struggling with a mild case of OCD, but I do NOT like change.

Over the years I've had to let go of "traditions" that I've had. But not without throwing a tantrum first. I know, I'm being brutally honest here, but...well...it's true. We don't see our families as much and this is probably one of the hardest things for both Amy and me.

What prompted me to write this? Well. I just finished reading a blog post by one of our good friends as she described how she missed her grandma at this year's Thanksgiving. Her story opened up something within me that I don't think I realized was there before. In fact, it opened up a window of emotion and quickly the tears started to flow.

I, too, miss a grandmother. She was my great grandmother, Renabelle Lichty. Seven years ago September she went home to be with God. But she was and still is a very special lady in many of the lives of my family. And you know what? I hate this change. I want her here with us. I miss the twinkling eyes, the beaming smile and especially the squeezing hugs. I long to see her once again at our family holidays.

This kind of change is so hard to accept. The kind that forces you to adjust to the hole in the family pictures. The kind that causes you to tear up when you realize that the dish they always made isn't there. Or when you see the blue chair that she used to sit in once is now empty.

And then there's the change that comes as your kids grow up. They are small only for a short time. We decided that our little girl would be our last. Every "milestone" that she hits is so bittersweet. She is very close to crawling now. She has started to get passed the cooing and is now speaking "ba ba ba ba." And again it becomes a change I don't like.

I'm sure there are some that would tell me to "just get over it." I also realize that I'm not the only one to experience this. Perhaps there are many more changes in your life that you wish would never happen. Maybe you agree with all these thoughts.

There is something new I've been learning about change though. It's taken me down the road of learning about who I am and what makes me struggle in this area. Because if you know anything about Jesus Christ and what He does for your life, you know that there is a change that is required. And there are many times when I just don't want to give into it. I am clearly a stubborn individual. I bet at least three of you just laughed out loud in agreement.

Let me make it clear, however, that His change is always for the good. Always.

I am allowing more of me to die so that I may be able to accept more of His change. The change that involves molding and softening the hardened pieces of my heart.

And it's because of this that I'm thankful He decided to become flesh in that stable in Bethlehem so long ago. Jesus Christ came to give us not just a plain old change, but a total transformation! Listen folks that's better than any extreme makeover any day. There is reshaping involved. There is restoring involved. There is also restitution involved. But Jesus Christ willingly paid this price. The Bible says in Romans, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternally life, through Jesus Christ our Lord." What a gift!

This Christmas, I will eagerly embrace the changes that God has for me and my life. Because there is a Hope that will "not disappoint." (Romans 5:3-5)

Will you accept them too? Do you still hold onto things in your life that you know God is asking you to change for Him? What about those "traditions?" Have you placed them above Christ?

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6

A Daddy's Moment : Christmas Memories

2010-11-27T11:43:00.000-05:00

I have decided to start a new series of posts. One of the best jobs that God has given me is to be a Daddy. I have three of the most precious children in the world.

Life is a gift. When God gives us children, He is bestowing on us humility, honor, and a privilege. Amy and I were given the privilege of experiencing four little lives. One of our boys gave us joy for a short three months in the womb. Timothy is still one of our kids. God decided to take him home sooner. We still miss him.

Thanksgiving has just passed and most turn toward Christmas. Christmas brings back many memories. And it appears that God has given me a great memory as there is very little that I forget.

One of the strongest memories I have is sneaking out at night once I knew "Santa" had come. I would slowly open my door. Then quietly peak my head out. I knew my Mom slept like a rock. The one I had to be attentive to was my Dad. But I was thankful because Dad snored. Yes, I was always thankful to hear the snore. Then I would literally start to tiptoe down the hallway being ever so careful not to step on that certain spot that would always creak. When I made it to the living room I would turn the flashlight on and begin to look at tags and sizes of gifts. And yes, I would even shake them if needed. I think the real work began on Christmas morning when I had to feign excitement when I had already guessed what I was to receive.

Another one of those memories came last night to me as we were setting up the Christmas tree. I immediately went to the CD rack and pulled out one of my most favorite albums, John Denver and the Muppets. Clearly this should be a staple item in every family home. My parents owned the record as I was growing up. They had this nice stereo system where I could pile like 4 or 5 of these records and it would play the pile one at a time continuously. I also own the record thanks to a wonderful garage sale find a few years ago!

Anyway, I walked in to see two brothers dancing to one of the songs on the CD. The song is The Muppet version of a Beach Boys favorite, "Little St. Nick." As I laid the boxes down that I had brought in from the garage, a flashback occurred. Instead of my two boys, it was my brother and I back in Michigan nearly 25 years ago. We were dancing like crazy to the song. I remember we would play it and replay it all the while our parents expressing their discontent as we caused the record to skip by our jumping.

My eyes got a little wet and my throat tightened as I realized that somehow, without even trying, I had passed on this experience to my boys. It's little moments like these that I wish I could just push pause and hit the replay on the DVR.

You know what? I can. God has put in our hearts and minds the same technology, and called it memories. He has given us the ability to pause and replay so we may never forget how good He is to us. And I think what is even better is that He can also hit the play button when we need it most. God's good like that. He always knows what we need and when we need it.

Is there a Christmas memory that you have? When has God pushed the play button for you? How can you create new memories this year?

Government Giving Out Waivers?

2010-11-15T17:33:00.000-05:00

Why would there be a need to hand out waivers to any company if this is such a great "historic piece of legislation"? So what happens if a little "Mom and Pop" business tried to apply for a waiver? Will they get it? And is it a surprise that huge Obama campaign supporters, the Unions, are part of the majority of these companies? Here is what The Blaze has to say. Check it out here!

Quantitative Easing....Huh?

2010-11-15T06:50:00.001-05:00

I had the opportunity of watching this hilarious video when Trevor Louden over at his blog shared it. Some of the new commercials for Geico have been created by the same people.

It's amazing that there was a point in my life that I thought we could trust the Federal Government and the Federal Reserve to protect us. I was a complete idiot. Please don't be the same.

Foreign Countries Allowed To Challenge Our Constitution!

2010-11-14T17:22:00.002-05:00

This is ridiculous! I love the point that Megan makes. This has less to do with human rights and more to do with the fact that 65% of the cocaine coming into our country comes in through this border. These countries can't lose the money they get from the U.S. in drug money!

Wake up, America!

The Exposed George Soros

2010-11-13T08:37:00.003-05:00

I have stated many times and have posted many articles (mostly on Facebook) trying to show you that this man is pure evil with no good intentions. Please watch these three videos. Here is the link to all of Glenn Beck's research. Don't just believe his words, check out the facts.

Jesus Christ came to save the world by giving up his life. George Soros came to destroy the world by building up his life.

The Progessive Theme Song

2010-11-01T21:30:00.000-04:00

My kids were watching "The Lion King" tonight and I found myself reminded of this song. Listen to me, folks. Scar thought he had the best of ideas and that, if given the chance, they would work. His ideas were based on those that worked for their food giving it to the scavengers that didn't.

What happened? The land became barren and there was no food.

May this song be a reminder to you. President Obama is playing the role of Scar. The Progressive Democrats which include Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, are playing the part of the hyenas. If you don't vote tomorrow, they will continue to laugh and laugh at you. All their plans are bound to do is make our land barren of health care, food, jobs, and more. But wait...they keep telling us:

I know it sounds sordid
But you'll be rewarded

Don't be fooled! They long to sing the very next line!

When at last I am given my dues!
And injustice deliciously squared
Be prepared!

Financial....The Word Sucks

2010-10-26T08:36:00.000-04:00

The road to financial freedom is a tough one. That is especially when you have no one to blame but yourself for how smooth or rocky the pathway has become. My wife and I have been trying for several, several years now to perhaps achieve this. We argue much about this and the struggle always ends with nothing solved and more problems brought forth. We both rationalize why we need things. Why we must spend. All of this reasoning is wrong. There is never a reason to spend money you don't have.

We so desperately want to be free from this bondage. But the habits are not always fully broken and when we come back to discover this fact, our hope becomes shattered.

How do you tell your children that there is no money for Christmas? No money for birthdays?

And yes, I'm sure others are going through the same thing....maybe. And sometimes we wonder how many others are out there just living what they think is a free life because they had also been taught that "debt is just a part of our world."

Too bad it's not a part of God's.

Indiana Reps Working to Defund Tax-Funded "Porn Institute"

2010-10-22T08:15:00.000-04:00

Found on http://newzeal.blogspot.com this morning:

Indiana Republican State Representatives Cindy Noe and Woody Burton are calling for the notorious Kinsey Institute to be defunded. The institute is located on the campus of state-subsidized Indiana University. "I don't think the Kinsey Institute is a proper use of taxpayer money. Given the pressure that higher education is under now I can't think of a better time to defund them," Cindy Noe said.

World Net Daily reports,

"After November we'll have a good legislature that will listen. This is the kind of material our taxpayer dollars shouldn't be supporting," said Clark.

"The last time I tried to defund them, their budget was $666,000," Burton told WND. "That number was quite a joke in the Indiana House."

"I went down to that place and toured it. It's just a pit. It's just a porno pit. They've got rooms where they take the college students in and show them pornography and do things to them. It's just disgusting; and they sit there and try to tell you it's just science.

"They perform sex," Burton explained. "They have a room and they send a girl in and insert a thing in her and measure her sexual stimulation. They have another room for boys. They have displays of all the sex toys throughout history, and they act like that's OK. I said this is trash, and they resented my saying it."

Burton noted that much of the Kinsey collection of sexual paraphernalia and research files are not open to the public – not even to the state legislators who fund it.

"I was trying to get a legislative order to go in and see that stuff. A video was sent to me about this guy on the Kinsey Institute board, who said they have a system set up to destroy their files immediately if anybody tries to get in to see it with a court order."

Patriots in Indiana. Are you ok with your taxpayer dollars going to fund this institute? If not, speak to your friends, family, colleagues - everyone. Keep fighting, and contribute to the likes of Woody Burton and Cindy Noe who have committed to bring an end to this corruption.

Endowed.......With Certain

2010-10-20T22:18:00.001-04:00

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - from The Declaration of Independence

For those of you who know me, I've been doing well recently to steer clear of politics. Instead I have been spending time in prayer. My heart yearns for this country, of which I love and am proud to be a part, to be made whole again. I believe that one of the many things that is needed to accomplish this is for our leaders, from both sides of the aisle, to step back and take the time to read some of our original historical documents. Ideally it would be great if they would start with The Declaration of Independence AND The U.S. Constitution.

The first time our President omitted the "Creator" from a speech in September, I didn't go along with the conservative talk show hosts that reamed him out for it. Mainly because anyone can make mistakes and yes, for us Christians, and especially for me, we can practice Grace here. But after now a second time, I wonder if this is deliberate. Please note, that I have not made my decision.

Last evening, I was chatting with a young lady who believes there are many things wrong with our Government but she couldn't decide whether she just needed to "check out." It's for this reason I link these videos, a copy of the speech (paragraph 4) and then a small snippet of commentary from a radio host. We cannot check out. I don't believe that would be what God would want us to do. If our President IS deliberately omitting the phrase "by their Creator" in an effort to take God and throw Him away. We, as Christians, MUST STAND UP! To do otherwise, is a sin.

Again, please note, I am saying "if." I will present to President Barack Obama the grace that is extended to me on a daily basis. I will continue to pray for his heart, his family, his leadership and our country. But I will not stop becoming aware. I will not settle for complacent thoughts and feelings. I will allow the Holy Spirit to do a work in me and if He ever asks me to raise the banner of truth in this area....I will not hesitate.

Please watch. Be informed. Be prayed up. I will always be thankful to my Creator God, Elohim, for those unalienable rights that He endowed on me when He formed me in my mother's womb. (Psalm 139)

P.S. The link to the commentary is above, but I wanted to point out a couple of sections of the transcript:

GLENN: ....But more importantly, you have to understand why evolution is so important. And we just explained that for a second. But you remember if God didn't create, if things evolved, then your rights evolve. You're not endowed by your Creator. It's interesting. You're not endowed by your Creator with certain inalienable because your rights evolve. Just like you go from a monkey to a man, you go from simple rights to higher rights, and somebody has to take those rights and give them to you and take them away or change them. This is again the evolutionary thinking of progressivism. President Obama just gave yet another speech.

AND

GLENN: How many times, America, is this man going to talk about collective salvation, which is "I've got to save all the half monkey people or I don't get saved." It is, it is an affront to Christianity. And when I say Christianity, I know there are people like Jim Wallis, you know, who vehemently disagree. I know there are Marxists out there that believe in the liberation theology which is, again, collective salvation. I get that. And I know there are a lot of Christians out there that don't think I'm a Christian because I'm a Mormon. I testify to you now that Jesus Christ is my savior and He saved me. The only reason why I am alive today is because of the atonement of Jesus Christ. Period. So let's move on.

I would be interested to hear your thoughts. Please take the time to comment.

Happy Halloween....to the Lazy!

2010-10-12T21:16:00.000-04:00

A Lesson on Child Safety by Virginia Ironside

2010-10-07T06:59:00.002-04:00

Here is Glenn Beck's commentary. I would like to know what you think.

GLENN: Stop. I mean, is there any commentary needed here? We've heard this rhetoric before. Now, if you don't think that these people and here's the problem. Here's why the word creator, all men are created equal and endowed by that creator, the reason why that is there is because if you take God out of it, man starts to make the decisions on who's worthy and who's not, what rights you have and what you don't have and there is one of them. Well, deeply suffering, it's the humane thing to do. This is the Fabian society over in Europe, the Nazis I'm sorry the Fabian society over in England and Australia, the Nazis over in Germany, the communists in the former Soviet Union and the progressives here in America. They will decide who is a value, who is not. That is for God to decide, not for man to decide, especially when you start to run into economic troubles. Does anyone see what this leads to? How is it, how is it a planet that said we will never forget has forgotten the same conversations were had in the 1920's?

We are not these people. May I ask you, if America falls, who is there to stop it this time? If America falls, will it be Canada? Canada is maybe our best shot! Does Canada have the ability to stop the world going down this road? Does Australia? Does New Zealand? Australia and New Zealand, so close to China. If America falls, does Australia have the ability to do it? Who does? Don't you see, this is not about the almighty dollar. This isn't about your house. It's not about your job. It's not about your pension. This is about man's freedom. This is it, gang. If we fail here, the world is plunged into global darkness. This isn't about saving. Let me give you a headline, Wall Street from Bloomberg. Wall Street sees world comedy coupling from U.S. The next one comes from the telegraph in the UK, IMF admits that the west is stuck in near depression and that things are only going to get worse.

It is going to get worse. This is the time period I told you about when they were discussing TARP. Their idea is to be able to bring the plane down into the forest. It's going to rip the wings off, it's going to rip the engine off, but we will be alive and we will have each other. I was foolish because I thought they had your best interest at heart when there were so many on this globe that only have their power and their money and their own interest at heart. Some of us may be lost on the way down, but the rest of us need to look for the exits and guide others out of the plane when they finally land. Do not go where they are telling you to go, place that place might as well be the Super Dome. Where they will lead you will be a place that will not be good. This is happening because it's unsustainable, everything is too big, everything is out of control, and what do they want to do? They want to shove you into a global community where we have to share all of the resources by force. Well, you will have people like this that will tell you, whether it be grandma or a suffering child, just as the benevolent dictators of the past have done. Nazi Germany started out of compassion. People started to have the argument, my son or daughter is fighting on the front lines but they can't get medicine because your handicapped child is using the medicine, while they're trying to keep the Third Reich afloat, your son or daughter is choking us to death. It is the compassionate thing. We all survive if we cut your child loose off of medication or we just as all mothers would do, put a compassionate pillow over their face. This is not going to come in black, shiny boots. This will come with reason. This will be this will be protection. It will be safety. It will be prosperity. It's our only way to save X, Y, or Z. It will end in nightmares. You must be prepared to be a person that will stand and help others, stand and educate others. You have to, because they are revealing themselves in unbelievable ways, as people that will do and say anything for their point of view and destroy anyone that stands in their way. Evidence? I'll show you something else that has been running on TV. They've tried to scrub it even off of the Internet and think can't. Nor will they be able to have you been it off of television and they can't because I'm playing it at 5:00. It's on theblaze.com, that audio from the BBC and what is it? three ads that they don't want you to see about their environmental nonsense coming out of England, three ads that I can't I couldn't have designed an ad to make it more frightening to show you who these really people these people really are. I couldn't have designed an ad any better than they did and they didn't see a problem with it. They thought it was okay and now, now they're trying to scrub it off of the Internet. They're doing everything they can to get it off the Internet, but the genie is out of the bottle and I am about to smash the bottle open. I'll play the audio for you, but you have to see it tonight at arrest 5:00 or if you're by a computer, go to theblaze.com right now.

It Happened in Tennessee

2010-10-07T06:53:00.000-04:00

This was found on TheBlaze.com. I also heard a couple of commentators on this subject on the radio. What are your thoughts and opinions on the article?

SOUTH FULTON, Tenn. (AP) — A Tennessee woman says she doesn’t blame the firefighters who watched while her house burned to the ground after her family failed to pay a $75 annual protection fee.
Paulette Cranic said Wednesday the firefighters who came to the scene were just following orders. Cranic said her family had paid the fee in the past but simply forgot it recently.
She’s thankful no one was hurt in the fire last week that destroyed their doublewide trailer in rural northwest Tennessee.
Firefighters did not try to save the burning structure because Cranic‘s fee wasn’t paid. Firefighters went to the scene to keep flames from spreading to nearby property whose owners had paid the fee.
Cranic and her husband are now living in their camper and a 21-year-old grandson who lived with them is living with his mother.

Story of two rallies

2010-10-06T16:34:00.001-04:00

I found this in our local newspaper. It was refreshing and true. I was also happy to see it was written by someone who I would consider a good friend. Let me know what you think.

_____________________________________________________________

In an earlier letter, I complimented those who attended the Restoring Honor Rally at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington on 8-28. I have eagerly anticipated the 10-2-10 counter rally to see if my suspicions would be borne out. I was not disappointed. The latter rally paled in so many ways. The contrasts were stark and illuminating.

o Sponsorship: The 8-28 rally was the brainchild of one man. As it began picking up momentum, various individuals came on board. The Tea Party movements (and there are several throughout the country) became interested, several speakers volunteered and interest grew from all over. Organizers did not provide transportation, lodging or amenities to attendees.

The 10-2 rally began as a counter-movement and was sponsored by labor unions, socialist networks and the Communist Party, nearly 25 groups in all. Union members were required to attend and buses were provided, using union dues and organization funds, to bring supporters to the rally.

oSize: The 8-28 rally drew an estimated half a million plus, filling both sides of the reflection pool and all the way to the Vietnam War Memorial. By contrast the 10-2 rally brought in perhaps 100,000 (and that is being very generous).

oDemeanor: At the 8-28 rally, leaders discouraged signs and the attendees complied. Though there were numerous costumes representing the nation’s founding and plenty of American flags, there was a dearth of signs. No propaganda leaflets were passed out. The “hate” and “racism” that the media promised us would be spewed never happened.

At the 10-2 rally, not only were signs encouraged, but they were handed out by the organizing groups, along with hundreds of thousands of leaflets to be passed out. Many of the homemade signs were hateful and encouraged violence. Those interviewed on camera talked of revolution and class warfare.

o The message: The 8-28 rally was all positive and upbeat. The speeches encouraged members of the rally to remain peaceful and rely on divine providence to guide them in their every day lives. The 10-2 rally encouraged participants to actively demonstrate and protest to accomplish their agenda. Several speeches demonstrated bigotry against 8-28 attendees. One speaker, Harry Belefonte, called Tea Party members racist. The lack of charity and comity at 10-2 was palpable.

o The aftermath: In the previous letter I discussed the shape the 8-28 crowd left the Capitol Mall grounds. It looked cleaner than before they arrived. Go on line at Fox News or Glenn Beck to see the photos after 10-2 (You won’t find them on “main stream media”). Trash is blowing everywhere. Signs littered the new World War II Memorial. Environmentalists were a portion of the 10-2 support. Which groups would you prefer to be in charge of the environment, 8-28 or 10-2?

o The future: The 10-2 crowd is now the heart of the Democratic Party. They are the party of Barak Obama, Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi. Decent Democrats like Joe Pearson have lost control of their once proud party. If the Joe Pearsons don’t soon regain control of the party, it is doomed to die a slow death on the pyre of sound ideas — those emanating from the Tea Party.

George Dicken, Upland, Indiana

A Wake-up Call from Indiana

2010-09-30T21:25:00.000-04:00

I will admit, I normally listen to Glenn Beck's radio program. But these past couple of days I have taken a break to clear my mind and to pray. Mark my words...no matter what...GOD IS IN CONTROL! And you know what? He has allowed everything to happen in our government, our country, our world for His ultimate purpose. It's not even about politics! But let me make this statement. I believe with all my heart that since President Obama has taken office....are you ready for this? I believe that since he has taken office that God has had more people willing to be used by Him than since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. I think it's funny when I hear pastors praying for revival. Are you kidding me? Have you looked around in the past year? People are taking stands they would have never taken had God not put Barack Obama into office. Folks, I believe that we are already experiencing revival. But let me also add, that this is only the beginning.

Here's a transcript from Beck's show today. I read through this and was amazed at the strength this father had. And best of all? He's a Hoosier just like me. I hope this will inspire you as it has me. I can empathize with this dad. My wife and I have taken a huge turn in the pathway of raising our children. We have decided to home school them. Yes, there are moments of struggle, but overall, there is great reward. Perhaps not all can home school. But let me say this the Bible is clear that we must be the greatest teachers and educators to our children. Mostly instructing them in The Word of God...but why should we stop there? Take the time now to read this....if not for me...than for your children or grandchildren. Then promise me you will take the time to pray and be willing to let God guide your heart.

______________________________________________________

GLENN: I want to go to Walter in Indiana. Hello, Walter, welcome.

CALLER: Hey, Glenn, how you doing this morning?

GLENN: Very good, how are you?

CALLER: Well, listen. I'm sitting here with the owner's manual for our country and our people and our souls. I have the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Holy Bible.

GLENN: Yes, sir.

CALLER: And I'm absolutely infuriated with all of these people passing out first place trophies to last place people that run last. I'm sick of it. It does an injustice to the people and it does an injustice to our country. My daughter is 10 years old and I pride myself in making sure that she does her homework and is the best she can be.

GLENN: Yes.

CALLER: She comes home from school and instead of running out into the trailer park for two hours playing with the other kids, I make sure she pounds the books and gets everything right. The other day she comes home and I said, how did you do on your social studies test? She goes, Dad, I did wonderful, I got an A plus again. And I go congratulations. She goes, but Daddy, we're going to have to take the test again. I go, excuse me? She goes, yes, Mrs. Brown says we have to take the test again. She's in fifth grade. I go, that can't be right, honey, why? Now, this is out of my daughter's mouth. She takes a breath and she sighs and she looks at me: Daddy, all of the other children in the class except for two of us did terrible because they don't study much. So the teacher said, quote, we're going to have to retake this test over and over again until the scores for our classroom come up. Well, that was it. I seen enough, you know? We talk about separation, you got to separate, you got to do your own thing, you've got to live by these basic rules. I went stomping over to the classroom and I asked the teacher, I said, is this really possible? She looks and me like inquisitive, well, why wouldn't it be? Quote Glenn, I can't even make this up: We have to wait for the other children to catch up. And I said, no, we're not going to waste time with my daughter. Can't for the 15 or 20 minutes while all of the other children are, quote, catching up? Can't you give us some other stuff to push her forward? And this is what she said to me, Glenn: It will make the other children in the class feel not as equal.

GLENN: Oh, gosh.

CALLER: That was it, Glenn. I've tried as hard as I can to be in the system. That was it. I took her out of class. I said, we're done. I'm scared to death, but I'm as excited as I can be. I'm going to get all of the old school Constitution, the declaration, George Washington, Ben Franklin and I'm going to teach her about a great history of our people and our ancestry. And I'm tired of this country accepting mediocrity. I'm tired of these people lowering the bar saying we're all equal. Glenn, when we were born out of our mothers, we're all equal. But when we start walking and talking and doing all these other things, there's a big disparity. And when I spend my two hours making sure my teacher, my child is reading and writing and these kids are out there running around like hoodlums not paying attention, my child has to suffer? It's time for America to get right and it all starts in the home. It comes from yes, sir, no, ma'am, thank you, get on your knees and pray to God. And I want to hail you and I want to thank you guys for waking people up and standing there and just telling the truth. And that's about it.

GLENN: Walter, I've got to tell you something. I think you're amazing. I think this is fantastic. Make sure that you teach your child, as I'm sure you will, charity, love, respect, and

CALLER: Honor.

GLENN: You keep going. You're darn right, honor.

CALLER: When my daughter has her friends over to the house, I know I don't want to take too much time. And then the parents that see when the kids that stay for the day or sleep over and then come home, the next day I'd get a phone call and the parents will say, Wally, can I ask you a question? Sure, why? Well, when our children were over to the house, is it true that they got on their hands and knees and scrubbed the kitchen floors with rags? And I go, well, sure. And I go, well, why did they have to do that? I said, well, they wanted a meal. See, we've all got to row our boat. We've all got to be in the boat. We've all got to row as one. And if you are not going to row, get the hell out of the way or stop getting in mine. And I want to thank you because you're just like the highlight of our day. We laugh and joke. Because we've felt this way our whole lives. And it's great for somebody to have a light bulb on and to say, look, the truth is the truth. And you can dress it up, you can do it, but the truth is going to set you free. And you think it's an accident in this country when you go to St. Louis and you see these great, great monuments but then you step outside of the monument and our inner cities and our cities are falling apart with decadence and slums? We used to be champions. We used to be heroes. We were these great pioneers with a dream. And our head to the sky and our knees in the ground thanking our Good Lord. And look what we've turned into. A social network of give me and "I'm entitled" and you just keep up the good work, brother, because I'm going to keep it on our end and anytime you're in Indiana, you come on out.

GLENN: Walter, I love you, man. Thank you very much.

CALLER: We'll do some cow tipping, how's that?

GLENN: You got it. You got it. Thank you very much.

STU: I love that guy.

GLENN: I love him. I love him.

STU: He's from Indiana. Is that a borough of New York City?

GLENN: Let me tell you something. If you've read "Atlas Shrugged," and even if you haven't, you may have asked yourself this question: Isn't there some place I can just go? I just want to take my family, I want to be I want to be safe, I want to be I want the 8/28 experience where we don't all agree with each other and we're not all, you know, we're not all white. We're just all Americans. And we're just trying to be decent to each other. And we'll hold ourselves to a higher standard: Hey, knock it off. We will say those things to each other. But we'll also say, are you okay? There is no place like that. The pilgrims came here for that. The immigrants came here for that. How sad is it that we now look at this land and say, "Where can we go?" If you've read "Atlas Shrugged," where is John Galt? John Galt left. The pioneers, the inventors, the doers, they left. They found at this time, if you read "Atlas Shrugged," it reads like today. It was at this time that John Galt just disappeared. Where's John Galt? Where is the head of this corporation? Where is this inventor? Where are all the great minds? Where are they going? What are they doing? Well, they had found a place where they could just go disappear, be off the radar and just live the life that they wanted to. You might ask where is that place. It doesn't exist. There is no place like that. If you're looking for a physical place. But I am telling you now, I am about to go all John Galt. We were talking in the break and Pat, I think, said 8/28 has changed you. And Stu said what was it you said, Stu? It's changed you

STU: You seem like you're like, above the fray more. Like you just don't want to deal with the nonsensical back and forth of it all.

GLENN: And it has changed me in a material way. It has changed me to the very core of my being. And I'm about to go all John Galt. But there is no place to disappear to. It is just the unplugging of the system. It is just the unwillingness to play the game. It is the unwillingness it is the willingness to say the game you are playing is corrupt. The game and the rules and the system that you have set up is a system of slavery and oppression. And I'm not going to play it. It is exactly you know what just happened on the phone call? A man in Indiana went all John Galt. That's what happened. He unplugged from the system. He's still in the community, he's still around you, but he's decided he's going to be a positive source. He is going to make sure that his daughter is a clay pot, his daughter has everything in her to preserve the idea of merit and honor and integrity, of individualism, of charity, of faith. So his daughter is a seed that will be allowed to be planted. He is not only planting that seed now, he is watering it and nourishing that seed. And that seed will grow and inspire others. When they have been beaten down by this system, when they have no future in this system, when they have been filled with lies, someone will be able to stand up. I don't know where we go. I don't know how this works. I don't know what tomorrow brings, but it may not be on a radio broadcast. It may just be on it may just be over the fence to your neighbor. But you must see yourself as an individual not just inside the system that is the voice of America. So if, God forbid, they stomp out the ideals and the values and the principles that have made this country the life changing country, the life changing system of this planet, whether it be over the airwaves, whether it be over shortwave, whether it is offshore, whether it is just at a barbecue at your neighbor's house, you be the voice of freedom. Your children are the voice of America. Do not ever let them take it. Unplug from a corrupt system and be a positive force in that they don't know what to do with it. Be a positive force in this system. Be an example that others will look at. You may think it makes no difference. I know this because of my best friend Pat. When I was at the biggest dirt bag stage of my life, my best friend Pat never faltered. Never faltered. I never saw the man live outside of his principles and his values, not once, not ever. And quite honestly it pissed me off. Because if he could do it, it meant I had to be able to do it, too. And I couldn't do it at the time. But he never faltered. And when I was at my lowest point, he was there just quietly saying, "You know what? There life doesn't have to be this hard." And I wasn't ready to hear him until I was into my storm. And because he had weathered every storm, storms that are beyond your wildest imagination, not a perfect family by any stretch. His family has gone through storms. I'm sorry. I hope you don't mind me telling this, Pat. But his family has gone through storms that are bigger than my family's storms, and he made it, and his family came out the other end. Well, when I was in my storms, "Okay, all right, how are you doing it." That's who you need to be. You need to be John Galt so the system doesn't corrupt you. Unplug. Spit yourself out of the system. Go all John Galt on them. It doesn't mean you have to go find some place to live. It means you just live the way you know you're supposed to. And be a shining example of goodness and courage and temperance and frugality and common sense and faith and honor, and you and your children will change the world.

A Snapshot and An Experiment

2010-09-29T07:51:00.000-04:00

I have always loved science. One of the best memories I have was when I was in 2nd or 3rd grade. I have a great friend, Dan, who owned a chemistry set. He also had one of those Radio Shack electronics kits. Do you remember those? We would make door alarms so when our younger brothers would start to come into the room we would know it. We had some fun times mixing stuff, doing the experiments and sometimes exploding test tubes. One time the explosion went up on to his parents' ceiling. To my knowledge it was still there when they sold the house and moved to Texas.

Here is another experiment that I found through a Home-school freebie website. I hope you enjoy it!

Homemade Spacecraft from Luke Geissbuhler on Vimeo.

New Design, New Content....COMING SOON!

2010-09-24T08:14:00.000-04:00

Hey All!

Not sure if anyone reads this anymore, but one of the reasons I am taking a break from Facebook is to start writing more on our blogs. So....

Be ready to see new stuff coming to this blog AND to The Rayment Reader!

MCT KT AWARD WINNERS!

2010-07-10T09:22:00.000-04:00

   * Best Actress in a Minor Supporting Role: Carol Hamilton
    * Best actor in a Minor Supporting Role: Charles O’Haver
    * Best Actress in a Minor Supporting Role for a musical: Jenny Wolcott
    * Best Actress in a Major Supporting Role: Jackee Eib
    * Best Actor in a Major Supporting Role: David Wolcott
    * Best Actress in a Major Supporting Role for a musical: Regan Reese
    * Best Actor in a Major Supporting Role for a musical: Richard Patton
    * Best Actress in a Leading Role: Katerina Zachos
    * Best Actor in a Leading Role: David Losure
    * Best Actress in a Leading Role for a musical: Becky Thada
    * Best Actor in Leading Role for a musical: Rob Rittman
    * The Don Overman Memorial Award: Ellie James
    * The Jean Rosen Memorial Award: Sara Phillips
    * The James Shildmyer Memorial Shining Spirit Award: Kathy Boxell
    * The Clarence M. Slusser Memorial Award: Chris Greene
    * Best Set Design: Don’t Dress for Dinner directed by Vangie Gunter and Pauline Moody
    * Best Play of the Season: Don’t Dress for Dinner directed by Vangie Gunter and Pauline Moody
    * Best Musical of the Season: Cinderella directed by John Butcher

I wasn't able to make it to the award ceremony last night, but I'm very glad that this year appeared to be more spread out among several plays. Since we only have one musical on a regular basis, it appears that it is a no-brainer when it comes to the winners of those awards. Everyone who won an award is talented, but I want to go one step further with a few. I want to highlight a those that I feel really worked hard for their award and it is appropriate that they won it.

* Best Actor in a Leading Role: David Losure - He played in "The Sunshine Boys." He was/is a great actor who worked very hard in this role. Not to mention that late night rehearsals and then having to get up the next morning at the butt crack of dawn is not an easy thing to do. GOOD JOB, DAVID!

* The Clarence M. Slusser Memorial Award: Chris Greene - This man is also spectacular. There is nothing that he doesn't do when it comes to set construction, design, etc. He has built sets for the past several shows. He is down at the theater almost any time he is asked even if it's to make popcorn for concessions. He even spent his New Year's Eve down at the theater with a small group of people organizing the shop. Thanks, Chris for being there!

* Best actor in a Minor Supporting Role: Charles O’Haver - This man is AMAZINGLY talented! He played Lucius P. Smith in The Boys Next Door. If you didn't come down to see this show, then you should be ashamed. His performance was stunning. I ran lights for this show and there wasn't one night that he lacked in energy and perfection. This guy was spot on for every performance. I need to also add that he would play the part to the fullest during rehearsals too. This doesn't happen all the time down at MCT and I include myself in that bunch. Charles you certainly deserve this award. Congratulations to you!

* The James Shildmyer Memorial Shining Spirit Award: Kathy Boxell - Finally, let me spotlight on Mrs. Boxell. If it were up to me I would nominate her for this award every year! She does so much behind the scenes. I've seen her work in many shows and she's even found it in her heart to help me on occasion. She works incredibly hard at each and every show. She seems to always know what to do and when to do it. Kathy - OUTSTANDING JOB! YOU ARE THE BEST!

And that brings this note to a close. So if you locals (not to be confused with locos) see any of these fine people on the street, please stop and congratulate them for a job well done! Thanks ahead of time for offering them wonderful encouragement!

FOLLOW ME HERE

2010-06-16T08:37:00.000-04:00

Hey All!

Just a quick note to let you know that I will be still posting here from time to time, but if you are interested take a trip over here and follow along as I have the awesome responsibility of directing the cast of WILLY WONKA!

A Surprising Movie Choice

2010-05-29T23:23:00.000-04:00

I had the opportunity tonight to rent a few Redbox movies. One for the kids, one for my wife and one for me...or so I thought. I don't like to read info about movies because most of the time the synopsis gives way too much away. I saw a movie with Brendan Fraser and Harrison Ford and it was titled "Extraordinary Measures." I think that if you have seen a movie with either one in it, that for the most part, you would think action and thriller right?

BOY WAS I WRONG!

It was about 5 minutes before I even figured it out. Then within the next ten minutes a moment happens that takes my breath away and so begin the tears. Oh. and they didn't stop there. I found myself throughout the entire film wishing that I could find the off button and get some control over myself. Alas, it didn't happen.

I'm not going to give away much, in fact, I hope not to give anything away. The one thing I will tell you is that this is based on a true story and focuses on the disease known as Pompe Genetic Disease.

But it wasn't really just about the movie's content that continued to make me cry. It was the constant reminder of my own children that kept me going. It seemed that an imprint of my children continued to show up in almost every scene. I was taken aback and reminded about that individual love again.

My mind kept wondering over and over how can I help change my kids' lives. Then the questions grew as my heart grew and I found myself wishing that I could influence other kids too! But how was I to do that? I am only one person!

I heard the answer through the still, small voice of the Spirit: "You can always pray." My knee-jerk response was "But that's not enough! I got to DO something! I can pray, but give me something to DO, give me something I can act upon!" And once again like a healing salve being placed upon my eyes so that they may be fully opened, the Spirit spoke: "Praying is action...always." Then came the challenge.

I am to take the month of June and pray for my children and for the children of others not only in my church, but in my community. And just now as I was about to put the last sentence on the page, God spoke and told me that I must also pray for their parents. The biological ones, the ones that have adopted kids and even those that foster.

I will share this journey of prayer with you through the testimony and experiences I encounter. I'm wondering, though, if God might be leading others to do the same. If so, would you take Him up on the offer? If any of you reading this would like to participate in this challenge, I would be willing to give you the opportunity to post on this site during the month of June. What a way to display God's goodness and power, but through a little collaboration!

One last thing. I need people praying for me because I can't do this without His strength. I also know Satan won't like that I'm not only praying for my kids, but for others and their parents. Will you do that?

I cannot wait to see what God has in store. It's wonderful to know that His paths are straight when only we trust in Him and acknowledge His direction!

A Lesson from Stargate SG-1

2010-05-25T22:49:00.003-04:00

So I was watching an episode of Stargate SG-1 tonight on Hulu.com, when all the sudden coming from the characters mouth was something so perfect for our country today, that I couldn't pass it up.

I want to challenge you to listen to this audio clip. It is from Season 7, Episode 18 which originally aired on February 20, 2004. Below is the script. I have highlighted for emphasis.

BREGMAN: Why is that camera off? You don't know what you're doing here ... maybe I know what I'm doing here. These people are risking there lives for us. I want to see what they're going through even if they don't want us to and I want other people to see it. What do you think they're doing out there ... protect and defending secrecy! That's a world of Mau and Stalin and secret police, secret trials ... secret ... secret deaths. You force the press into the cold and all you will get is lies and innuendo and nothing. Nothing is worse for a free society than a press that is in service to the ... to the military and the politicians. Nothing.

But WAIT! There's more! In fact, what I'm about to tell you leads me to believe that this is absolutely NO COINCIDENCE! The actor playing the part of Bregman is just trying to film a documentary of the Stargate program. He's constantly brushed off. The episode is actually the second of two parts. That actor? SAUL RUBINEK I looked him up in the IMDb and this was part of the first line of his mini bio:

Saul Rubinek was born in a refugee camp in Germany after WWII where his father ran a Yiddish Repertory Theatre company.

I find it amazing that although he had not had personal experience with WWII, his parents did. So it seems to be sort of ironic that he would be playing this part and saying these lines after I'm sure he was told several times about what happened during that time.

Please. Take the time to go and listen again. What truth rings out from this line! It amazes me how this can be applied to today! How close it hits home a little over six years from when it first was spoken!

Your thoughts?

Temptation...A Way Out?

2010-05-20T09:11:00.000-04:00

Take a look at this devotional from RBC.org.

This scripture really spoke to me this morning. I found it amazing how God didn't say to Cain, "You are sinning...STOP IT!" Instead He spoke to him and reminded him that he has the opportunity to "master it" by using self-control.

1 Corinthians 10:13: "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is
faithful; he will not let you be t...empted beyond what you can bear. But
when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can
stand up under it."

We are all tempted...always. It's what we do with it that makes us who we are.

The Stupidest Woman in Congress?

2010-05-20T06:35:00.001-04:00

I am sure we will find her coming out to say she "misspoke" herself. Stop shoveling us the crap. We are done drinking your kool-aid. I want you voted out!

Not Just Another Dream

2010-05-15T17:10:00.000-04:00

This absolutely blew my mind. I would love to some day get an opportunity to use my gifts from God like this. Great job, Janey!

Arizona Governor Fights Back!

2010-05-11T20:48:00.002-04:00

The saddest part is the audio and video from our President. Do your job, Mr. President!

The One Thing - 4/29.

2010-04-30T09:51:00.001-04:00

Please WATCH THIS!

A Comment on the Immigration Debate

2010-04-27T12:39:00.000-04:00

My friend saw this as a comment on a USA Today article in reference to the Immigration Debate that has taken a front seat since the Arizona law just passed. It is so good, I felt I needed to post it here.

MOVING TO MEXICO

Dear President Obama:

I'm planning to move my family and extended family into Mexico for my health, and I would like to ask you to assist me.

We're planning to simply walk across the border from the U.S. into Mexico , and we'll need your help to make a few arrangements.

We plan to skip all the legal stuff like visas, passports, immigration quotas and laws.

I'm sure they handle those things the same way you do here. So, would you mind telling your buddy, President Calderon, that I'm on my way over?

Please let him know that I will be expecting the following:

1. Free medical care for my entire family.

2. English-speaking government bureaucrats for all services I might need, whether I use them or not.

3. Please print all Mexican Government forms in English.

4. I want my grandkids to be taught Spanish by English-speaking (bi-lingual) teachers.

5. Tell their schools they need to include classes on American culture and history.

6. I want my grandkids to see the American flag on one of the flag poles at their school.

7. Please plan to feed my grandkids at school for both breakfast and lunch.

8. I will need a local Mexican driver's license so I can get easy access to government services.

9. I do plan to get a car and drive in Mexico , but I don't plan to purchase car insurance, and I probably won't make any special effort to learn local traffic laws.

10. In case one of the Mexican police officers does not get the memo from their president to leave me alone, please be sure that every patrol car has at least one English-speaking officer.

11. I plan to fly the U.S. flag from my housetop, put U S. flag decals on my car, and have a gigantic celebration on July 4th. I do not want any complaints or negative comments from the locals.

12. I would also like to have a nice job without paying any taxes, or have any labor or tax laws enforced on any business I may start.

13. Please have the president tell all the Mexican people to be extremely nice and never say critical things about me or my family, or about the strain we might place on their economy.

14. I want to receive free food stamps.

15. Naturally, I'll expect free rent subsidies.

16. I'll need income tax credits so that although I don't pay Mexican taxes, I'll receive money from the government.

17. Please arrange it so that the Mexican Government pays $4,500.00 to help me buy a new car.

18. Oh yes, I almost forgot, please enroll me free into the Mexican Social Security program so that I'll get a monthly income in retirement.

I know this is an easy request because you already do all these things for all his people who walk over to the U.S. from Mexico . I am sure that President Calderon won't mind returning the favor if you ask him nicely.

Thank you so much for your kind help.

You're the man!!!

Jennifer Knapp on Larry King Live....

2010-04-26T10:30:00.002-04:00

I would like to hear your thoughts and comments.

Changed For Good

2010-04-15T13:55:00.015-04:00

Wow! I have listened to this song many times since being introduced to the musical "Wicked" last August. I was driving home from Bluffton and this song was playing. It's certainly a beautiful song, but it was then that I first realized what the lyrics meant. In fact, I had to replay it five or six times just to hear them and to let them sink in.

Read the first part of it below:

I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you...

First, it made me think of all those who have helped to shape my life. Those that stopped to pay attention. Those that thought little ol' me was worth spending some time on. I want to list them as I can recall. There is no special order and it's possible at 33 that I may have forgotten some.

Here it is:

Ms. Sally H. Bird
Dr. John Maher
Mr. Ray MacLean
Charlie High
Barb Reehl
Chuck Flowers
Renabelle Lichty
Mark Douras
Pamela and Terry Butters
Karen Force
Allen Sudmann
Scott Budde
John Christophel
Dean Meadows
Shirley Hadden
Betty Wade
Betty Mass
Ken Carver
Ruth Fortier
Ron and Marlene Darling
Francis Rayment
Craig Rayment
Gary Bright
Doug Wall
Jeff Ruggles
James Bruney
Ron Darling
Leonard and Sue Ruggles
Jim and Carole Ruggles
Les Barkman
Joyce Barkman
Skip and Julie Konkle
Deb Green
John Campbell
Michael Smith
Diane Root
Brian Holland
Dwight Lewton
Steve Colter
Doug Drown
Dr. Richard Chewning
Jim and Martha Stevens
Gary and Shelly Rayment

Some on this list are no longer with us. Some on this list I may never get a chance to see again. But no matter what, they changed me for good. Each one of them has been used by God as He has taken the chisel to this lump of clay known as Chris Rayment. And you know what? God isn't done! This list hasn't stopped growing and it will never stop until the day I die. Think about your list. Who is on it? When you think of their names can you remember that moment when they said something or did something that made you better? And isn't it so amazing that there are people on our lists that God continues to use. I love how God uses my sweet wife and my adorable children. Almost every day they are changing me. They teaching me new things!

What a revelation I was just given! Go back to my list and read the names aloud. Go on. Please.

Now read your list aloud. Think of those moments one more time. Wow! Don't you see? Each one of these names is attached to a life, to a person who was only doing what they were made to do. There is value in that name and, more importantly, in that person. We all have value. Can you imagine if anyone on your list hadn't been there? Every single one of us have influenced others without even realizing it. Or have we?

That was the second thought I had. Am I on the list of others? How have I influenced anyone and their life?

It was then that yet another song played, but this one wasn't on the radio. This one played in my mind. One that I felt was even more important. I pray that this song will be true of me some day.

The Magic of Theater

2010-03-06T10:11:00.000-05:00

I love theater. I love the stage. Lights. Audiences. Actors. Directors. I love theater!

There's a movie called "Cutting Edge." I think that's the title at least. It features a kickbutt figure-skating duo and their struggle to get along (since he has always been a hockey player before an injury causes his career to end). One of the quotes from that movie is "I love the smell of the ice." as he holds up a picture showing him sniffing the ice.

That's how I feel about theater. I love the smell of the stage. I love the process of putting together a show. I love casting and blocking. I love watching the set idea from the mind transform into a reality in front of your eyes.

I've had a lot of great experiences too. I had just graduated from high school when I received the call from the local theater director with an offer to play "Jack" in the musical, Into the Woods by Stephen Sondheim. I will never forget that wonderful experience I had. And of course, I could never forget my first part on a school stage back in middle school. I played in a musical and had a wonderful solo...I can't remember the title of the song or the musical, but I remember the words and the passion in my heart.

"Whoever said it was easy. Nothing in life is every easy." It was a great song. Sad...but true.

Ahh...I just remembered the show, "Freedom Bound" It was about people traveling as immigrants in the late 1800's to come to this great country of ours. The struggle getting through Ellis Island and then the larger struggle of finding a job.

There are so many different shows and different stories each one just as magical as the next. This summer I have the opportunity to direct (upon Board approval) one of the all time most magical shows that I could ever imagine directing.....Willy Wonka! This show is based on the wonderful story by Roald Dahl called Charlie and the Chocolate Factory but also has some of the wonderful music from the movie with Gene Wilder.

I had the opportunity to direct the play version of this great story while living in Wisconsin. What a treat! I can still remember now sitting in my first grade classroom with Mrs. Harbin. This was the very first time I was ever introduced to a man in a purple suit...to a room in a factory where everything was edible...to the mystery of "pure imagination." What a wild ride that was as every day I would anticipate the next chapter, the next fun-filled Wonka room. I can still see that first picture I had as I stepped into the story myself and discovered that in the end...I wanted to be like Charlie.

Then it was during my third grade year where I was first introduced to the movie. OH MY!!! What excitement as I watched the beginning of that movie as the liquid chocolate rippled and rippled as it was made into candy bars and candy drops of all sizes! You see we didn't have cable television at my house...so it made it even more spectacular!

So now...nearly 28 years later...I will realize a dream that was placed (unknowingly then) in my heart. Not for my glory or to my credit...but to the glory of the One who's provided me with this opportunity...the glory goes to the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords! Lord, use me. My desire is to be an open vessel ready and willing to be used in every way possible.

I don't take this lightly. And in that, I ask for your prayers. I love using the talent He has given me. Thanks for your support in this area!

Come Home...

2009-12-11T22:48:00.001-05:00

I'm praying for you. God is with you...right now. He loves you. He promised that He would never leave or forsake us. He told us there would indeed be trouble, but that He still has the power to overcome. God is an Awesome and Mighty God. He wants to hold you right now. Will you let Him? Let Him into your life today. He really is the best thing that could have ever happened to my life. Are you ready?

For Truth...

2009-09-10T07:11:00.006-04:00

Last night, I made a status update on my Facebook:

Chris Rayment is finished with politics. Thanks for all those who have commented and kept lively discussion. I've known all along what is key...and I've not done enough of it. (2 Chronicles 7:14)

Over the past year, I have posted many articles and have made many opinionated comments. I found it interesting as time and time again I was made out to be a stereotypical Christian conservative. I'm not even sure what that is, but it seems everyone else knew and made sure to tell me.

Thoughts were put into my mind and words were posted that many were SURE that I was thinking and planning on saying. This is false.

Some, in this past year, have wished that I talk merely about frilly, candy-coated, feel good things and just leave the politics to Washington because (in their opinion) there was no way that I could change them. This is assuming that this was my end goal. This is false.

This is most likely going to sound harsh and I'm certain I will hear about it in some form or maybe I'll just be given the cold shoulder treatment. I care about the tone, could care less about the latter, but sometimes words alone can only be interpreted by the current attitude of those who read them.

I liken this to the days when there was Persecution of the Christians in Rome. No, I'm not being persecuted...so please get off that idea now. Many Christians were taken into the Colosseum and were basically killed before the multitude. I wonder if there were people that knew this was wrong, but just thought it would go away by doing nothing. Or maybe there were those people that figured "Hey! It is what it is" and just continued to go about their daily tasks. Or maybe there are those that stood up and let people know that this was not right.

Or what about the days of Hitler (NO! I am NOT saying Obama is Hitler...geesh.) and Nazi Germany. Which of the above types of people were present during this time period?

We all have been created by God. He made us all individuals and knows the very number of hairs on our head (or how many we've lost depending on the perspective). He gave us all distinct personalities. Some of those personalities are mentioned above. So should those be faulted for just being who they were created to be? No.

I believe in truth. I believe that lies should be exposed. Every article I have posted, every comment I have made has been because I despise the lies. I might sound like a crazy mad man and perhaps to some that's who I will always be, but it's who I am. I believe that people are daily buying into the political lies of our country and in return we are getting farther and farther from the Constitution and the principles that helped to form it.

But here's the thing....and I think this is the clincher and the reason why I continue to persist. I don't do it because I want my side to win!!!! Yes, I have my opinions! Yes, I have my beliefs and I plan on standing for them.

BUT...if people are so quick to believe in these lies, then how quick are they to believe in the lies of Satan? How many are daily defeated because of the whisper in their hearts and minds that they are worthless? How many believe that when they go through huge valleys that they are the only one in them? The Devil is the "father of lies" and his lies are worse than "misinformation." His lies will ultimately lead to death! (Romans 6:23)

This is the burden God has placed in my heart. This is the battle I have been called to fight! I see that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Ephesians 6:12)

Am I perfect? Nope. Do I screw up and use poor word choices? Unfortunately. There is no excuse for it and I'm sorry that in my passion to shout out the truth that sometimes I step on toes. It's really not my heart's desire.

So the question in everyone's mind: "Is he really going to give up on politics?"

The answer is "Yes." I'm done taking sides. Will I stop posting? No.

My promise to you is that nothing will be posted without it going through the filter of prayer. From this point on, every article will be one more display of commitment as I pray for our country, our President and ultimately, for Truth!

Learning to Lean

2009-08-12T08:45:00.002-04:00

Jesus knows what you are going through right now. He sees the tears that fall. He knows the sins that so easily entangle you. He wants to provide a way out (I Corinthians 10:13). He's there right now in the room with you.

Embrace Him. Welcome Him. Accept Him.

I’m learning to lean, learning to lean,
Learning to lean on Jesus.
Finding more power than I’d ever dreamed,
I’m learning to lean on Jesus.

Words and Music by John Stallings
© 1976 HeartWarming Music/BMI

Video: Weather Underground Documentary

2009-07-13T21:45:00.001-04:00

Glenn Beck - Current Events & Politics - Video: Weather Underground Documentary

Shared via AddThis

Watch!

2009-06-26T20:43:00.001-04:00

The Announcement

2009-06-03T15:17:00.002-04:00

I Can Do Tomorrow!

2009-04-09T12:51:00.005-04:00

Today my youngest son turns two. Today I woke my boy up with that well known song wishing him a happy day. Today I held my son in my arms and told him I loved him. Today I heard him say "Ah 'ove 'ou." to his grandparents and great-grandparents.

I couldn't be more thankful for today.

Tomorrow will be a day of remembrance about a Son. Tomorrow will be a sad and rainy day to remind me of a Daddy who sent His one and only son to this earth. The sole purpose of this gift is death. Death to sin. Tomorrow I will picture once more in my head torn flesh, bruised limbs and a bloodied head as that Son took on himself that sin. Tomorrow I will hear again the words, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they are doing." Tomorrow I'll learn about the purest and most unconditional love that we only occasionally see in our children.

I couldn't be more thankful for tomorrow.

Lyrics | Bill Gaither lyrics - Because He Lives lyrics

A Sweet Sound

2009-04-03T07:30:00.002-04:00

As I start to write this, I am listening to Pandora.com. The song is "Art in Me" by Jars of Clay.

God is molding me. He's working on changing this person who is Chris Rayment. I got a feeling there are times when He stops and thinks, "Boy, did I get more than I bargained for with this one." :)

I've come a long way in the past few months. I find myself doing a lot less kicking and screaming than what I used to do. I find myself so many times wanting to run and hide, but if you know God and know His Word, then you know we can't run from Him or what He wants to do. He always knows where we are and what we are going through. The result is that I find myself standing firm and trusting.

We felt God calling us to leave what has been our "home" church for the past 5 years. This church will always hold a special place in our hearts. They did so much for us in that amount of time. It was so hard to leave. It was in January we were finally obedient. We prayed and God spoke to our hearts and we chose to follow His path instead of our own.

The first Sunday we were there, a pastoral candidate, their first, preached a sermon and asked, "Have you settled the question of authority in your life? in your marriage?" The Holy Spirit, in His gentle way, gave us the nudge we needed. We become too aware of the reality that He was not the complete Authority in our marriage nor in our lives. That Sunday we went to the altar of the Almighty and submitted to His direction.

Then God decided to put me into "turbo" mode. It's the only way I can describe it. There's been a lot of open doors that I have submitted to and walked through. This Sunday is probably one of the biggest ever. I was asked if I would be willing to play piano during the worship time. The Lord had already placed this on my heart and told me to be ready for it. I was obedient. I committed and told the person I would not bail.

The kicking and screaming then started. All week I have wanted to run away from this. But God won't let me. I know He wants me to do this. I must stop fighting and simply be obedient. For those of you that really know me, you understand how hard it is for me to stay put...to follow through...to stick to it. This has been one of the biggest challenges in my life when it comes to everything but my marriage. God's not even asking me to be a super-piano player, just that I'm willing to give my best.

I ask you to join me in prayer. It's time I start letting God use the talent He has given me. It's time for me to not doubt His ability. It's time I allow Him to have full access to all the clay in my life, not just the parts I want Him to mold.

I love You, Lord
And I lift my voice
To worship You
O my soul rejoice;
Take joy my King
In what You hear
May it be a sweet, sweet sound
In Your ear.

COM-passion

2009-01-22T13:53:00.006-05:00

I have thought about this post for the past couple of days. I have tried to avoid this post for the past couple of days. But God continues to lay it on my heart. Just when I thought I had stopped up the dam of my heart, He has gently come along and taken the cork out.

I am a screw-up. I am so stubborn. I am so involved with myself that I can't seem to get "it."

What is it? Love. Grace. Mercy.

Compassion.

For years now, I've fought IT. I thought I've had IT. I've thought that I was displaying IT.

I. Was. Wrong. I was so wrong.

I thought that I've always been in the right. I've fought so hard to prove it, that I denied the still small voice it's freedom to prove otherwise.

It all started the other night. I was chatting with a friend down in Alabama. I was discussing with him about a comment someone had made on a status about someone they didn't even know. I was explaining to him that the comment was made with righteous indignation and none of the above. Then the message flowed.

I told him that so many people have passion. Lots of it! They believe in things so strongly and are willing to fight for them, to stand up for them. Passion isn't all bad. It has some good qualities. But I believe the end result is not so good.

I believe that passion by itself when uncontrolled can turn into righteous indignation. Out of this births self-righteousness. Out of this births pride. Out of this births anger. Out of this births bitterness. Sin.

Then we discussed that if we find someone we disagree with or who is in sin, that in our passion we tend to not produce fruit, but hurt. But with COM-passion, I wrote, things are often accepted. They are often respected, too.

I was being "cute" and thought I'd come up with something for the COM, but I didn't do so well. Then, that same night as I was laying my head on the pillow God whispered this to me.

C. O. M. - Christ Over Me

No, this isn't from some great Rick Warren book and it won't be a part of the next amazing Erwin McManus book. But it's simple. Simple enough for me to realize I'm not very good at it.

So here's to taking a new pathway, one that leads people to Jesus Christ. The Only One that can take all their sin away. Here's to putting others before me and praying the hurt I've caused will be healed some day.

1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!

Philippians 2:1-8 (New International Version)

Have You Been...

2008-12-10T08:02:00.005-05:00

...a Dad today?

Wow! You might think this is a simple question and quite possibly for you it is. I was driving yesterday and as I got on the highway, I found myself staring at a billboard that had this slogan. The picture on it was of a dad playing with his kids. Here's what I say:

I must admit the question for me it wasn't so easy. Even worse, it brought to mind a few more questions.

1. What IS being a dad?
2. I work to put food on the table, isn't that enough?

I sort of shoved the questions and thoughts back down and continued to drive down the road. Then....SMACK!

You might have guessed it, ANOTHER ONE PASSED IN FRONT OF MY EYES!

This is the one:

It seems that it's a new campaign ad from Fatherhood.org

This is when it hit me hard. My oldest is only six, but he plays in the tub with his Thomas the Tank Engine shaving cream and razor. But, I asked myself, how many times have I really been there during those moments to do any "teaching?"

Tears came to my eyes and I knew it was no coincidence that two of these billboards would jump out to hit me. Yes, I know that it was probably planned that way by the Ad Council, but I know in my heart, God was speaking to me.

I'm one tough cookie, if you don't already know, and it takes much effort for me to learn a lesson. In fact, God had tried last week to use my wife to wake me up. She suggested I spend more time with the boys, that they needed me. She gave me a few open opportunities and for maybe two days I did it, but then I got back to thinking about work, etc.

Children don't exist to be a tax deduction or another reason for the government to give you more money. God gives us children for the sole purpose of raising them up to know Him. They are a gift. I will go one step further, my boys are not my own, to further my ideas or agenda, they are God's boys. BUT, He has seen it fit (not sure why at times) to give to me and my wife, these two particular children! Wow! I mean....WOW WOW WOW!!!

I only pray that I as a human, who makes a whole lot of mistakes, can show my kids, by example, the love and joy and grace of Jesus Christ.

Here's the directive from scripture:

Deuteronomy 11:18-21 (New International Version)

18 Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 19 Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 20 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, 21 so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the LORD swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.

Discovering Gary Ray Stapp through the "Daddy's Girl" Microscope

2008-10-18T14:14:00.010-04:00

This is really going to freak him out, but I believe Gary Ray Stapp has been perusing my blog. This is according to the site meter I have.

So when I posted the title, I figured he'd be back. Sure enough he has been...a few times. :)

So.... "Hi, Gary!" By the way, this is all in fun. I hope you enjoy my analysis.

I do some writing myself with scripts and poems and I know that, when I write, my characters tend to have a little bit of me in them. I was talking with a member of the cast over IM a couple of weeks ago and we joked about how we might be able to find who Mr. Stapp is through the characters of "Daddy's Girl."

Let's start with the person I had the opportunity to play, Walter. I believe that there are many bits of Gary in Walter. I believe he is confident in his field of study and vocation. He is confident in his every day relationships, but when it came to meeting his wife (and maybe still today) he had (has) trouble communicating with her, especially when he gets nervous.

Let's move on to Alex. Alex is a different story. He shares with me that Gary thinks he's quite the ladies' man. He knows what to say and when to say it. He's adventurous and a risk taker. HOWEVER!!!! I am quite certain that like Alex, Gary most likely "hides" behind this character and once the layers are peeled we still will see Walter. Also, it is safe to say that Gary, like Alex, is sometimes "pushed around" by women, especially if they are in authority over him.

Now we move on to Michael, the angel in the play. This is the character that helps to balance out the personality of Gary. Michael represents the nicer side of Gary. I believe Gary is a person who wants to help others and that this can become a passion, however, like Michael, Gary can be a practical joker when you least expect it.

Next we come to "Shirtless" Bob. This is a pretty minor character. It therefore shows us very little about the author. I am willing to bet that Gary has a small desire to have the huge amount of courage and guts that this character displays. Bob tends to stand alone, but does so with passion. I think Gary would like to be this at times.

Finally, I come to the last male character, Benard. This one is harder because Benard is significantly older than the real life Gary. I will still take a shot at it. I think Gary displays in this character his own "territorial" behavior. He's very picky and specific when it comes to his "area." This would apply to both work and home. I think he's also specific in how he completes tasks and processes. There might even be a hint of an anal retentive person here. The last comparison here would be that I believe deep underneath there is love for his family. He cherishes them more than anything.

Now, as you can see, I focused on the male characters. I believe the women are more likely people he knows and are close to. Who knows they might even be a complete description of his wife. But this I will save for another post...or maybe not! Au revoir!

A Glimpse at Truth?

2008-10-17T07:45:00.004-04:00

I am normally annoyed at the usually one-sided view that our local paper takes on our school system and political issues. This morning, I had the opportunity to read THIS article. I realize this is a Syndicated Column, but what I am thankful for is that it was posted.

My whole concern with Senator Obama is his ability to continue to change his "perspective?" on those relationships and issues. He believes in change, but is it the kind of change where truth is hidden to better another?

I agree with this person in the last part of his column. I don't believe in guilt by association and I think most people would agree. It's the dodging and "cover-up?" that deeply concerns me more.

I wish both candidates would just come out and be open and honest. I believe when all is said and done that the majority of Americans will vote for a person who truly exemplifies those characteristics.

Jib Jabs Latest!

2008-10-15T17:46:00.001-04:00

Ain't it the truth!?!

Time for Some Campaignin' | Funny Jokes at JibJab

To Stand in Awe....is To Hush My Mouth

2008-10-07T08:54:00.004-04:00

This was part of my scripture reading this morning. I hope you don't mind me sharing it with you.

Ecclesiastes 5 (New International Version)

Stand in Awe of God

1 Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.

2 Do not be quick with your mouth,
do not be hasty in your heart
to utter anything before God.
God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few.

3 As a dream comes when there are many cares,
so the speech of a fool when there are many words.

4 When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. 5 It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it. 6 Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, "My vow was a mistake." Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands? 7 Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore stand in awe of God.

It wasn't just the Word that affected me. I was reading in Zondervan's NIV Worship Bible and on the side there are these little prayers that one could use in a church worship service or just in my alone time. I confess that this hit me right between the eyes. Below is that prayer:

Awesome God, I confess my inclination to rush into Your presence overflowing with many words. My private devotions are filled with my agendas for You. My public worship can be so flooded with noise that You would not be able to get a word in edgewise. I confess my failure to listen for Your voice. Too seldom do I wait in silence before You as a servant waits before a king. Help me, O Word of God, to learn to listen to You. Teach me to still my soul as a child with its mother. Give me renewed vision of Your holiness, so that when i speak to You it might be with reverence and respect.

A "Safe" Prayer

2008-10-07T07:46:00.005-04:00

This came today in my email. I enjoy reading a lot of Todd's blog and am thankful for his ability to stir us up and get us thinking. I felt like I needed to post it.

_________________________

Are You A Risk Taker?

I’m in the middle of reading Francis Chan’s new book, Crazy Love. Francis nailed me today with this thought. He writes:

Haven’t we all prayed the following prayer? Lord, we pray for safety as we travel. We ask that no one gets hurt on this trip. Please keep everyone safe until we return, and bring us back safely. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen. The exact wording may vary a bit, but that is the standard prayer we recite before leaving on mission trips, retreats, vacations, and business trips.

We are consumed by safety. Obsessed with it, actually. Now, I’m not saying it is wrong to pray for God’s protection, but I am questing how we’ve made safety our highest priority. We’ve elevated safety to the neglect of whatever God’s best is, whatever would bring God the most glory, or whatever would accomplish His purposes in our lives and in the world.

Would you be willing to prayer this prayer? God, bring me closer to You during this trip, whatever it takes…

My friend Greg Surratt knows that following God and impacting His kingdom can come at a great price… one that doesn’t include always being ‘safe’. In fact, it was a tragic automobile accident that solidified God’s calling on Greg’s family and his then-new ministry. Watch Greg’s story here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPyrGXJq3S8

Kinda of changes the way you pray, doesn’t it?

Father, may we be risk-takers for your Kingdom, not always looking for the 'safe' way, but the best way that achieves YOUR purpose. Amen.

Have a great week!

Todd

Todd A. Rhoades
Editor / Publisher - MondayMorningInsight.com

A Moment with Maudie...

2008-10-05T01:01:00.002-04:00

Okay, so it wasn't really a moment with Maudie, but I thought it would make for an interesting title. Just so you know, Maudie is a character in the play, "Daddy's Girl."

I got the opportunity tonight to sit down, along with the other members of the cast and crew of this Marion Civic Theater production with the person who wrote it. His name is Gary Ray Stapp. What I found, which wasn't too surprising, is that he's a regular person like you and me.

It is for this reason that I say it was an honor to meet him. He drove from just outside Kansas City, Missouri, to come see this show. He gave us a little history on how the script became a reality and shared with us some personal experiences that gave him inspiration. It was a good experience for all of us.

But I would like to share more...if I may.

One of my biggest dreams is to write something that would be worthy of publishing. I've written a lot of little things for our church and have some other ideas that are sitting in "drawers," but nothing big. One of the reasons why I fall short of even coming close to beginning pursuit of my dream is because I always think it is out of my reach. I don't believe an average guy who lives in Indiana will ever be able to do it.

God showed me through this man, that I, being a regular person too, can be used. And get this...are you ready? I can be used *TADA!*

Right Where I Am.

It seemed while others were asking for autographs and pictures, that I came away with a far better experience. I received something so much more. A rekindled dream.

Thank you, God for that moment with "Maudie."

My Political Rant...

2008-09-19T19:42:00.002-04:00

Ugh....I seriously did NOT want to post anything, but I've had about enough.

I'm so tired of Talking Points. I'm sick to death of "having less experience." I want to forget about that at the moment.

But I must say this, when I heard the news that the government was going to bail out AIG for $85 billion, I was really ticked off.

I don't even know where to start. Ugh!

First of all, the government just told us it's okay to go into debt. We can ring up as many charges as we want to on our credit cards and we can take out as many loans as we want. Because if we do the government is going to bail us out. You think so?

Probably not! Absolutely not! But to help AIG out is more than jobs. Let me give you some more info on this company.

It is the parent company to American General Finance. This company is one of the sleaziest companies I know. I have many friends who have worked for this company and all of them have run away screaming. Why do you ask?

Never mind that this company loans out money for mortgages at anywhere from 10% to 15% and higher. Never mind that it loans out money for everything else at 24% interest PLUS to people who clearly don't have any means of paying it back. Never mind that the main focus of the company is to meet a quota of repossessed vehicles, homes and yes, even wedding rings off of people's fingers. These are real facts and real issues. Never mind that ONE location here in Marion had a quota of new loans created to equal that of $300,000....A MONTH!!!!!!!!

It loans out money knowing full well that these people will not be able to pay. And get this....NEWS FLASH. They disguise it by saying they are trying to HELP those who can't get a loan anywhere else. They want to HELP them to rebuild their credit.

Does anyone else out there see this crap? I'm about to turn LIBERAL!

My one friend who worked for them hated going to work because of what he was forced to take away from people. AND if he didn't meet the quota he was looked down upon and he was "ripped a new one." I'm certain I could call him and he would list many more things he had to take back. He had to take back a church bus and a church mortgage. They were only late by a FEW MONTHS.

Yes, I don't agree with late payments. But when it seems obvious that they are taking advantage of these poor unfortunate people then enough is enough. I am sorry if I am currently sounding like Senator Obama. But he's got that right...ENOUGH is ENOUGH!!!!!!!!

I just got off the phone with my friend and I was informed as he spoke with another branch manager in southern Indiana that American Generals foreclosures were at an all time high. I don't know the percentages, but I would like to compare their average with the national average.

So, I ask you...should we have bailed out this company with an $85 billion dollar, two year loan, that the Bush administration has already gone on record as saying we probably won't get it back?

I don't know...should I go buy a new Porsche and then when I can't pay for it expect the government to bail me out?

You be the judge. Let me hear your feedback. Thanks for your time.

Some Things Are Just Hard...

2008-09-14T13:16:00.007-04:00

I've decided that some things are hard. I'm sure you are now telling the screen, "Chris, duh, I knew that." I would probably just look at you and smile.

Life is hard.

I hate doing hard things. I will admit that a vicious laziness tends to creep up on me and take me by surprise. Well...is it really surprise? Probably not. I am certain I choose it.

The reason why I hate doing them is because if they are bigger than me (which you might agree is usually the impression of hard things) I get overwhelmed and shut down. This then means I, not only, stop trying, but I run away from it and quickly.

Here is a list of things that I will admit have been hard and within the past year I have done the running.

1. God
2. Family
3. Work

Okay, so this list contains a certain ambiguity, I know. I will further explain.

The beginning of this year, I thought a relationship with God had already been going down the toilet and because I saw where I needed to be as being so far from where I was, I stopped. I quit. I ran and ran fast. He didn't stop. He didn't quit and He for sure ran too, but instead of away He ran after me.

My family. Yeah, this one is tough to admit. I love them so much, but I also felt that I just couldn't meet up to what they needed as a father and husband. So I stopped and then quit and then tried to run. I need to admit to you that this running wasn't so pleasant. My wife stepped in and instead of doing the same...made the steps forward to help. I also need to thank a few friends, you guys know who you are.

Well...at first with work, I felt I would never find it. So just the mention of a job and needing to have one and the dreary forecast of the job market made me once again want to just quit and give up. Then once I found work and I had to take the effort to build it and grow it. I thought I would never be able to accomplish the task. There were moments from then until now where I had decided it was too big and that I needed to just give up.

I need to tell you that I've learned to love the climb. I hope you watched the song at the beginning even if you aren't a fan of country. God is teaching me to not just wish for the "mountain top" but to love the climb and the hope that comes from that.

Do you love the climb? Or do you spend more of your time sitting on the mountain top? Or worse, do you spend more time figuring out how you can climb the mountain easier. Do you know that when climbing a mountain the only way to get to the top....IS JUST TO DO IT!

When it comes to my relationship with God and looking at where I am and where I should be is it hard? Yes, I will admit. I feel like I have such a long way to go. There is enjoyment in the pathway. Have you found it?

With my family, oh my beautiful, sweet family, there is joy in working harder to be the best dad and husband I can be. Do I have those moments of despair? Yes...but then I allow God to take over my complete imperfections and work me over to make them perfect. Remember in that verse...it is in our weakness that WHAT? Say it with me...HIS STRENGTH IS MADE PERFECT! Yes! Isn't that just the best promise?

I love the part of the song where it says "This world ain't fair, it can knock you on your butt. You can just stay down or you can get back up." This is so true!

I know this song isn't exactly Christian. It doesn't point people to the One who can help them "get back up" or to the big strong arms of Jesus who will gladly let you lean, "when you can't lean on no one else."

So I leave you with this promise from Jesus as He said it to His disciples.

"In this world you may have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world." John 16:33

An Update...Finally!

2008-08-13T11:37:00.004-04:00

Okay, I just looked and saw that I last posted in May. Ugh! I really have been wanting to post, but just have been so busy.

Then the other day on Facebook, I had the opportunity to chat with a friend from college. He sort of got "in my face" about posting. I told him then I would post within the next couple of days. Well, surprise, it's been well over a week since then! Double UGH!!!

Let's see...where to start.

God continues to bless my family and me. I started out working with one company back at the end of January. It is now August only 7 months later and I am working for 30 different companies as an Independent Marketing Consultant. I basically work out of my home and I do the following: Inventory, Audits, Servicing and Merchandising (Resets, Restock, etc), and Basic Research & Analysis. I do this in Walmart, Target, Dollar General, Family Dollars, Lowes, Kmart, Menards and a few more, but you get the picture. I enjoy it because I'm able to pretty much set my own hours. If there is something at home that needs my attention I'm able to do that and then work around it.

For instance, we went to Michigan on vacation. While there I was able to find jobs in those areas and worked 3 out of the 8 days we were gone. I made enough through for a comfortable week's salary! Praise the Lord!

My oldest started school this week. My wife was a little sad, but I was excited. I know my boy wants to learn and needs this challenge in life. I'm excited to see how God will use this to shape him and form him. I'm proud of my little man. The coolest thing is that this school is about 4 blocks from our house. We have chose to walk him to and from school to save some money. He's not too sure about it, but I think he'll get used to it. We hope so!

Amy got offered a part time literacy position at the school system here. It will pay well and we are thankful she can be home when Alex comes home. She started today and I'm proud of her too. She is working hard to be thankful for what God has given her...and us.

I was reading over the post about where I was a year ago in May. For a long time, I've not been able to let go of Black River Falls and always wished to return. I still miss it and the friends we made, but I find myself growing content right here in Marion. I'm more confident of the fact that God brought us back for His purpose. Our return to Indiana is in His Will, the same Will that took us to Wisconsin.

By the way, I'm thankful for all those God has placed in our lives over the past several years. They have been more help to us than they could ever know.

My prayer is that we will become this "help" to others.

The New Narnia Movie!!!

2008-05-16T21:42:00.004-04:00

Wow! I just got home from watching the new Narnia movie and I was very impressed!

Here are the top three things I liked about it:

1. The flow of this movie was amazing. It didn't feel choppy like the first one. It moved with "grace".

2. The imagery that C.S. Lewis intended in his writings truly comes alive with this movie. It is more "visible" in this movie than it was in the first.

3. The computer graphics and the special effects were awesome!

This is definitely a must-see movie. I know you will like it. It was worth the money I paid.

Oh and one little piece of trivia about the music score. When you go to watch it listen for a certain musical theme. It kept popping up here and there in the movie and I kept thinking to myself that it doesn't belong with this movie, but with another. I looked it up. The same composer Harry Gregson-Williams worked on this movie and on all three Shrek movies. I'm telling you, I thought I was back in the castle when Shrek is rescuing Fiona in the first of that trilogy.

I know...I know...my wife laughed at me too. This is how much I love music. I can pick out themes and snippets. It's the same for the movie Newsies and the musical version of Beauty and the Beast. The songs "Home" and "Santa Fe" are almost exactly identical. In fact, for you music gurus, it's as if the composer made an inverted variation.

Anyway...stop reading this...go see the movie. It's worth every penny!

Love

2008-05-09T22:10:00.003-04:00

Love is so precious. A love between a man and a woman is the best kind of love. I'm not talking about the "puppy" love or an infatuation. I'm speaking of an intimate love. A special closeness.

It's funny how when you are young and in middle school you think you know the one true definition of love. You see that girl or that guy come around the corner in the hallway and something funny happens inside. Your heart twists and turns and your knees get all wobbly. Of course, just try and communicate what's going on to this certain person and well...I think you've been there. Haven't you?

Then high school comes along and now you think you have it all together. You are older and so much more wise than all the years before. The same person comes out of the classroom, though, and she stops you in your tracks. The funny feeling isn't so strong, but your stomach still churns. You barely say, "Hi." before they walk away. You dream of the next time and all the words you will say. You plan and you organize. Love starts to become more complex. Just when you think you have it mastered...you come alongside the person...your mouth opens...you are almost ready...and still all you can muster is a simple hello. Let's not forget the nights you spent in your bedroom listening to the radio. Remember all those love songs? Perhaps you requested a few to them from you? You waited for it to play...then you hoped they would be listening.

Soon you are off to college or maybe you start a career. The time is coming. You know what to do. You wait for the moment. You date. You kiss. You share. You repeat those three things over and over. There are times when it comes to an end and you find yourself missing them. You wait again. You find one. You know it. The funny feeling doesn't stop. It continues every minute of every day. You are past dating. You continue the kiss. You keep sharing.

Then it happens. The kneeling. The promising. The hoping. The sharing. The future. THE moment. Love has grown up. Love has become more. Love is.

The funny feeling fades a bit. You still have the promises and the sharing. You still have the future. Love changes a bit, but it's still there. It becomes stronger. It becomes true. It becomes hard.

Oh and then there's the new kind of love. The love of nine months. The love of movements and pictures. The joy of love. The joy of life. The happiness. The funny feeling begins again in the pit of your belly. It grows. It renews. It is shared.

"Mommy, you're beautiful." "Daddy, you're the best dad in the whole world." Love becomes young and free. Love is innocent and unknowing and honest. It continues to grow and grow. Sometimes love starts to get lost again. It hides. It stills. It slows.

It can even become a hurt. A wound. A pause.

Sometimes it needs kindling. Sometimes it needs guidance. Almost always it needs Christ.

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

One Year....

2008-05-03T21:32:00.004-04:00

One year ago today I was sitting in my apartment in Wisconsin. I was pondering what to do with my life. I had no job and two house payments. One year ago, I was crying out to God...asking Him why and how and what was next.

Today I am in His presence and thankful for where He has guided my family. I know I didn't always acknowledge Him the way I should, but He continued to love me and give me Grace.

Today I have a job, one house payment, a wonderful family, friends..what more could I ask for?

Oh if you know me, I always seem to have something new in mind.

You know my two boys are just the best. Both of them love to play games with Daddy. The greatest game is to see how we can get Daddy's attention. My youngest awkwardly waves his little hand at me. He always does this with a huge smile on his face. And I don't want to forget the twinkle...ah yes, the twinkle in his eye. It's as if they communicate to me... "Come on Daddy, let's play. Take me and hold me."

My oldest...he likes to try to tickle me or at night throw pillows at me and then takes off running hoping that I will chase him. He has that contagious giggle and let's not forget when he turns to look behind. He has the sparkle in his eye. This sparkle communicates that he's been on so many great adventures already...he just wants to know what's next.

Have you ever noticed that kids tend to enjoy the unknown? They almost thrive on it. We as adults need schedules and day planners and predictability.

What about you? What do you need? What is more conducive to growing in Christ?

The Predictable Pattern

2008-04-08T11:41:00.005-04:00

I am in a pensive mood, so I thought I would sit down and write something. God has really been speaking to my heart recently. He's been challenging me to step out on faith like I've never done before. I must be honest though, I'm scared to do it.

You see I'm a pretty good actor. No, I haven't been awarded anything. No Tony awards. No Oscars. My acting usually isn't noticed by anyone. I'm good at "blending" in and "hiding". Occasionally, I make a wrong move or I step "out of place" and I get noticed, but it is unintentional.

I'm good at it. I make myself believe it. I'm able to make others believe it too. It seems it is getting harder though in the past few months. I like my job. I like making money for my family. I love my wife and boys. They are so special to me.

I praise God for the busyness. I've been up to midnight most nights now for a couple of weeks. I go to bed, get back up, and do it all over again. I'm on a schedule. It's great! It's predictable!

Then the "gentle breeze" begins to blow. I get a few minutes of "free" time. The dust settles. God speaks in His whisper. I know with all that I am, that it is Him.

But...

Then the busyness picks up again and I ignore it. Or do I?

The Track...

2008-02-26T21:23:00.009-05:00

A month ago...something huge happened. My train of life derailed. It probably seemed more than obvious to those of you who read my blog and commented, but I wanted to make it clear.

Now when a train derails, it's not like some toy set where you just pick up all the cars and put them back on the tracks and then it seems to go merrily on its way. No, when a real train derails...well...sometimes it can be catastrophic. It can be metal crushing metal. There can be fire or maybe even chemical spills. There might even be death. When this happens it is always followed by the arrival of the clean-up crew. There are even governmental agencies that show up to decide why it crashed, how it crashed, etc.

My crash was a mess. It almost involved death. It definitely had a clean-up crew. There was also something like a governmental agency that showed up to analyze and try to discover the problem. All for which and for whom I am thankful.

I'm not here, though, to tell you about the crash or the findings of what was discovered. I'm here to tell you that what seemed to look like weeks and months of clean-up...what seemed hopeless....and lost....

There is a God. There is this huge, loving, strong and compassionate God. Even when the accidents happen, even when death comes near, and even when the chemical spills and there doesn't seem to be any hope of reaching the site for cleaning....there is a God. His power and might are so big, that like that toy train set I mentioned, He is the only one that can pick up all the cars at once, and put it back on the track.

Tears melt away the bitterness, anger, depression and yes, most importantly, the pride. Jesus Christ then comes along and replaces all those with forgiveness, love, compassion and humility. I'm not afraid or ashamed to say that I need Him. I'm glad He never left me. The more I surrender to Him, the more freedom I enjoy.

I have so many things to be thankful for: good friends, a beautiful and wonderful and caring wife, the innocence of my two awesome boys, a great church, a car, a house, food, clothes, water, heat. But it is so small in comparison to what He has in store. "...and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace." I hope you know that tune. It was part of our worship time this past Sunday. You know something? God knows what to do, how to do it, where do to it and when to show up. ALWAYS!

This song has continued to play in my heart for the past several days. It is an old song, one that I hope to dig out of the accompaniment track box and maybe sing again.

There Is A Savior

Chorus:
There is a Savior, What joys expressed, His eyes of mercy, His word is rest, For each tomorrow for yesterday, There is a Savior who lights our way

Verse:
Are there burdens in your heart, Is your past a memory that binds you, Is there something that you've carried far too long, then strengthen your heart with His good news, There is a Savior and He's forgiven you

(Repeat Chorus Twice)

Tag:
There is a Savior who lights our way.

Careers BMG/Sandis Songs/River Oaks Music/BMI

And HE shows up!

2008-01-25T07:50:00.000-05:00

You ready for this?

I DON'T KNOW WHAT GOD IS WANTING! I DON'T KNOW WHAT GOD IS DOING!

AND I WANT TO!!!!

How many of you have thought or are thinking the same thing?

I wish that I could just give up on God and walk away. I've been trying to do that for about 2 months now. There's only a slight problem...God doesn't want me to walk away and He won't stop bothering me with reminders of His Love.

Seriously, it's really annoying! I am just believing that I am succeeding on living my own life in my own way and then HE gets involved. He sends these people who are also very ANNOYING! One of these people asks how I'm doing. They ask how my marriage is and how we are financially. They ask because they care. Then they sit back and remain patient while I go off on them about how God seems to be non-existent. And you know what HE does?

HE puts words in the mouth of my son and stops me dead in my tracks. HE puts words in the mouth of my brother and puts me on the floor. AND...AND I know HE's putting thoughts of prayers in others' mouths.....and say it with me....

IT IS ANNOYING!!!!

Then...UGH! Then I actually show up for church Wednesday night. Don't ask me why, because I couldn't tell you. THEN...the leader of the men's group comes up to me and tells me he expects to see me or the group will come find me. (NOTE: They have done this before. I was hiding and they found me.)

So like an IDIOT, I show up last night to men's group. They show this movie called "Flywheel". It is from the same production company that put together "Facing the Giants". It is actually their first production pre-Giants. The whole time...God is speaking to me. Several times I have to force back emotions and yell at God in my mind to tell Him to "STOP!" It worked.

Everything was going great...my emotions were under control. We have this part of the night where each man is on the "hot seat" for lack of better words. The question is asked of us, "How are you doing?" and there is no acceptance of a brief, "I'm fine." and there is no moving on until they believe you. When it came to me...I rambled for ten minutes. I know this is a normal thing for me for those that know me. I actually get out with no major emotions showing and then I come home. I go to bed.

Then I wake up and read a couple of blogs, one of them my friend Brian's. He is open and honest. He's a good friend. And HE shows up. Yeah, you know who I'm talking about. HE impresses upon me that I need to blog. I am obedient.

Will you pray for me? For my family? We could really use it. Thanks.

Requests and Resignations

2008-01-06T19:58:00.000-05:00

God has given me a talent and a gift in music. Please understand that I don't by any means say this to brag, but to share with you my awareness of this gift.

I will also clarify that I'm in no way shape or form a Michael W. Smith, Phillips, Craig & Dean, or Steven Curtis Chapman. I have no desire to be them and I'm quite aware that I don't even come close to comparing with them.

Now I also want to say that although I had the opportunity in Wisconsin to be a lead in a musical and to also direct a show, it wasn't all roses or whatever the colloquialism says. In fact, I was beat up pretty bad emotionally and yes, I probably came out with a bruised ego too. This is to assume I even had an ego (beyond the act I put on) in the first place.

Another fact I have learned is that any time I'm in the "limelight" and I say that loosely, I tend to find myself being beat up and bruised or at the very least it seems that I attract some sort of opposition. And you know what? I'm tired of that and I know my wife is also weary of this. I am happy and content just sitting in the corner far, far, FAR away from that.

I say all that to then bring you to what happened this evening at our church. I used to lead worship at our church and somehow a few of the older folks were big supporters of me. Right before we left I stepped down and of course the Pastor put another leader in to take the reins. These few didn't like that and did everything they could to convince me to change my mind. This wouldn't have been allowed by the Pastor and I didn't want to do it anyway. I appreciated their support and told them so.

Move forward to the present where we have moved back and are attending this church again. These same folks have really wanted to hear me sing again, especially this one precious lady. We had a chili cook-off and then a get-to-know other families program tonight. During the cook-off, she grabbed me by the hand and started to shout out to everyone that I could sing, etc. She totally put me on the spot and I did my best to sit down and continue on with stuffing food in my mouth.

Later we were introduced to five families. She was a part of one of these families. Things were going well until she raised her hand to the Pastor and requested that I sing for her wedding anniversary a certain hymn. She wanted me to sing it tonight! Ahh! Luckily I got out of that because it was getting late and there were families with children that needed to get home. Then she suggested next Sunday morning and before I knew it I was on the order of service.

The whole time I was feeling totally overwhelmed and embarrassed. Honestly, I wish I could have disappeared. I really appreciated this lady and her husband and I truly do love them. They are a great couple and have good hearts. But I am happy just being in my corner.

In the few weeks we have been home, I've been asked to take over direction of the adult cantata and to fill an empty spot in a mens quartet. I turned down the request for the cantata. I did accept the spot in the mens quartet because then its not just me up there, but I did this reluctantly.

Anyway, to put this post to an end, I am no longer on the order of service. I asked the couple if I could just make them a tape and give it to them as a gift. They were willing to accept this. I made it clear to them that I loved them, but I just didn't feel comfortable.

I respectfully resigned the request and I would do it again.

Are there more reasons why I did? Perhaps. I will save that soul searching for another time and post. Until then, I will continue to be happy just being my little corner. Maybe next time I will just hide under my chair.

God's Golden Ticket

2007-12-04T08:50:00.001-05:00

I am here subbing today at Tucker Vocational and well, it's an easy class so I thought I would take the time to post.

There is so much to blog about! It was over two weeks ago that I was into performances for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." I enjoyed directing this show and felt it was the most successful production with which I've ever been involved. The cast was fabulous and I couldn't have been more proud. I also found that I enjoy working with kids more than I remembered. Yes, there were times that I wanted to pull the hairs (all three of them) out of my head, but overall, it was a great time. I believe that the cast would say the same for me...I hope.

I started almost every rehearsal for the show with a circle time. This was more for the kids than the adults, but I think the adults got something out of it too. I didn't want to have a circle time before the last performance because the last one is always sad. When I direct a show, I put all of myself into it, so it becomes a part of me. This one was harder because it would be the last show I directed in Black River Falls. So, I decided to pass up on it and took my five year old who had come to watch the show into the audience and then we sat down.

A few minutes later the stage manager came out on stage and called me to come backstage. He tried to make up some excuse about a set piece, but I figured something was up. When I walked into the "shop" area I was greeted with applause. This was most overwhelming as the entire time I had kept the focus on the cast. Just because I was the director didn't necessarily mean it was my show. It was their show and all about them. Once the the applause died down the person playing Willy came up to me and presented me with a huge card that he had drawn and everyone had signed. Then with my five year old standing in front of me, I was presented with a "golden ticket". I was told to open it and I did. Inside was a gift of money and my first reaction was "No, no, no!" It wasn't a large amount, but it was big enough to be a blessing. Everyone waited for my response and it was everything I could do to hold back the tears of humility and gratitude. I regained my composure and stated that this is why I didn't want to have a final circle time. It would be hard to not only say goodbye to the show and the cast, but to the city. Then I said something I felt came from God.

I looked at the kids and told them what I had been telling them for at least a week; "Don't sell yourself short." I completed my thoughts with telling them that everyone of them had a potential and that they were worth more than they could ever imagine. I thanked them for the gift and then I told them to go out and do the best job they could do. You know what? They did. Sunday afternoons performance was truly great and I couldn't have been more thankful and proud.

I found out later that the show profited more than the previous three or four shows. It was very successful. I made a point of putting in a Director's Notes in the program. In these notes, I gave all the glory to God and made it clear that my talents and abilities were not my own. I believe the show was successful because of Him.

I came back to Marion with a dream that I hope I can make come true with His help.

Thanks God for using BRF to build confidence in those talents you gave to me. Thanks for lighting the flame again.

Woody Allen and Billy Graham

2007-11-14T09:08:00.000-05:00

I couldn't resist posting this. I found it on another blog that is a part of my list. It is Monday Morning Insight. Todd does such a great job of locating thought provoking and sometimes funny articles and then giving us an avenue for discussion. If you ever have a chance to stop by his sight I am sure he will appreciate it.

Have fun watching this.

Make it Marion!

2007-11-05T09:11:00.000-05:00

We are moving! Yes, we have made the decision and we are moving back to Marion, Indiana!

I am thankful that we have so many wonderful things to return to in Marion. We have a great church, great friends, more great job opportunities and a great sitter for our two boys. Did I use the word 'great' too many times? Maybe.

Underneath all that greatness is a layer of sadness. We've had some pretty great opportunities here. You've read most of them as we have posted along the way.

We will be leaving quite a few wonderful people here. As I write this, I am watching our neighbor, Mark, put up the American flag. He does this every morning unless it is raining. He is legally blind and although he can't see us, we've had many conversations, especially our Alex. Alex will be playing out back and when Mark is on his deck he'll yell "Hey Mark!" Mark will stay there and talk to him for as long as Alex will stay.

We have our friend who I met through "Pirates of Penzance". Yesterday, she came to see us dedicate our baby, Colin. Then her husband showed up and gave about 4 hours of his time while he joined a crew of 25 people to build the set for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory".

Yes, that's right! I couldn't believe the people that showed up yesterday. I've never had a set crew that large and with the help of other leaders (who actually know how to build stuff) we completed close to 75%-80% of our set. Did I mention we did that in about 5-6 hours? There are 11 scenes in the show and about 9 different sets to be built. It was simply amazing!

This is also a sad point to leaving. I was involved in the civic theater in Marion, but here I've had some huge opportunities in this area. Plus there have been people that have come to me and want me to direct the youth choir at a church and possibly start up a semi-professional Chamber Choir. The opportunities in music and drama are definitely much more amazing here. One thing I have learned here is to be more confident in my talents and abilities. But more importantly, that I can use these talents in just about ANY setting and still give glory to God.

But I'm still sad. I think more so because we may never return here. It just might not happen, even to visit. Alex has already told us he will miss his friends here. I think though he's more excited about moving back.

Amy and I have already shared some tears. I think it's because Black River Falls was more than just a city. It was a dream for both of us. Amy's dream to stay at home with her kids. My dream to provide for my family so that she can do that. While we were here we gained new dreams and learned a lot. But we learned that we need to stop planning and just trust in God.

Here's some other things we learned:

1. I gained more confidence not only in my talents, but in myself and the ability to lead and manage.
2. Amy and I learned to work together in our marriage and family.
3. We learned that we could live on half of what we felt we could live on in Marion.
4. We were stretched in our walk with Christ. We learned the importance of faith with action. We learned better how to pray together (something we are still working on).
5. I learned I could care for my boys. I should say I became more confident. I've been able to develop better relationships with them. I've learned also the importance of these relationships.

I could go on and on and I know Amy has some things she could add. We were here only one and a half years, yet we learned probably 5-10 years worth of lessons.

Is God good? Absolutely! Definitely! No doubt about it!

Are we excited about following Him WHEREVER He leads? Certainly! You bet!

So like my wife so eloquently put it: Marion here we come!

Busyness...Provision...Tithing

2007-10-26T10:36:00.000-04:00

Hello there. Things have been pretty busy here.

I've been directing "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and the show is coming together well. I have an excellent team in place. Everyone is doing their part and the cast has been very flexible and their willingness to do what I ask them has been fantastic. This especially was nice when we got to the rubbish chute scene. The script calls for Mr. and Mrs. Salt and Veruca to all go down the chute. It's a hilarious thing that happens when Mr. Salt gets stuck and his feet are wiggling, they stop and he says with no emotion whatsoever, "Help."

Anyway, I wish you could see the show. I think the Chocolate Room is going to be amazing when the set crew get done with it. If you are around the area the show dates are Nov. 16-18 and you are welcome to come see it!

Somewhere in the middle of all this we started getting empty cupboards and an empty fridge. I mentioned it, but because of the job I had the gross was so much that they took our Food Share away. This was how we were eating. We still had WIC, but for those of you who are on that or have been you know that it's only certain foods. Then came another time to pay bills. The time came and for the first time ever we weren't able to pay the house payment. We had to ask the landlady to wait a week for the rent and things just got very grim.

The calling started with our mortgage company only a few days after the payment was due. They called and they emailed and well, we finally just stopped answering and started praying. It's not that we ever stopped praying, but we prayed specifically for this. It finally came that we would have a late payment added. Ugh!

Let me tell you if you don't already know. Money problems really do a lot to a marriage relationship, especially if you let it. I was tired from the show and just getting off of working third shift and Amy was tired because she was pulling double duty with Colin and Alex. It seemed we left ourselves pretty vulnerable for Satan's attack. Our friend put it better. Satan was merely leaving the weapons around the house and we were picking them up and using them. Finally, in a sense of desperation, we started to ask some of our friends to pray for us. It was during this time we became aware of what we were doing to each other and stopped it. Let me say that in a sentence and paragraph all of its own.

We stopped picking up those "weapons" and started loving and holding each other.

Then we received a call from our friends. He shared a word of encouragement to each of us individually and then he said that he and his wife would be sending us money for food via Western Union. I told them they didn't need to do that and they told me not to deny them a blessing. When he started speaking to me what he felt on his heart I couldn't hold it in any longer, I sobbed. Yes, I really did sob. I knew they were words from "Abba" Father. I needed to hear them. Then our friend shared with us that if we felt we needed to move back to Indiana, that he and his wife would pay our expenses.

WOW! God never ceases to amaze us!

We haven't made a decision yet, because we are being faithful to that fleece. It seems though that moving back will be the only choice. And if this is what the Lord wants for us, we are truly content. Amy is content with teaching again. In fact, she told me she misses it. I have learned to be content with watching the boys, something I wasn't so good at in Marion. Bottom Line: We've learned more here than we would have learned anywhere else. We needed Black River Falls for a lot of reasons.

Okay and one more thing...tithing. So, during this financial drought I felt that we just couldn't tithe anymore. I didn't know how we could do it, so I didn't. Then the next Sunday we had a guest preacher. He was preaching some totally different message when in the middle he felt led to encourage us to tithe. I started to feel the "breeze" of the Holy Spirit blow. Then I was reading through my devotions and sure enough a whole days lesson was on tithing and its importance. I went to the checkbook and wrote out the check for what we owed.

Guess what? The very next week we had the money to make the house payment and every other bill I had to put off.

I want to encourage you. No matter what your situation is...don't forget to tithe. I don't care if you think you just can't pay it. Tithing is one of the most important things you can do to enhance and grow in your spiritual walk with Christ. I don't mean for you to test God...but try me...I bet you won't be disappointed.

The End of the Beginning...

2007-10-02T13:55:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I stole the title! I'm sorry Bekah to steal a song title from your "beloved". Ha!

This is how I guess I'm feeling right now. We are at the end of the beginning of our life.

Those so very few who read this blog usually read my wife's too. So you know that we have really grown to love this area in Wisconsin. We've been patiently seeking after God. We've prayed and listened and prayed and listened. When its possible, we've just been still. Yes, that part of the discipline has been hard for me.

We kept standing on the faith that God would provide (and He always has) and we dreamed that something would come along. Amy started picking up a lot of sub jobs at Alex's daycare and I finally found a job. There were some drawbacks to it (it was part-time, third shift and thirty minutes away), but we felt the need to take it.

Once again we have discovered that this wasn't the best decision. The job started out only a little higher than what I was getting for unemployment (which was only 40% of what I made at the other company) and that was barely making it. Then you take away the gas and then take away the food share because I make too much in the job and we are deeper in the hole than where we started.

Not to mention that both of us have been wore out and exhausted. I have because my body just will not adjust to that time of night and Amy because she has had to pull double duty with the boys. This is due to me having to sleep during the day. So last Monday I put in my two weeks with this job. We chose the sanity of our family over money.

Then we got to the bill paying day (which happens most weekends) and found all this out. We were going to be short our car payment and house payment and would have to hold off the landlady until we got the rent together. This while we hold off the hospital and doctor's office so they won't send us to collections. In the middle of all this we remembered an email that someone had sent Amy. It had simply asked if maybe it was time "...to come home." She was of course referring to Indiana.

We felt strongly in June we needed to hang in there. Much has been accomplished and we have made stronger relationships since then. But...maybe we had done what we needed to do?!? Whatever THAT was? We began to pray about moving back. By the end of the day on Sunday we felt we needed to put out a fleece.

I want to be the first to state that I hate fleeces! So many people use them and well...in the Bible it was a sign of a LACK of faith, not one who was full of faith. I used to know a person who would put out a fleece every chance they got. I do know though that God will indeed use fleeces to help direct His people...after He lets out this enormous big *SIGH* and rolls His eyes. That's because He is a good and just God and has an infinite amount of grace.

The Fleece:
If the house in Indiana sells or if I get a full time job where we can sustain the payments then we will stay, otherwise we will move back.

We could really use your prayers and support during this time. It was so hard to move here and leave our friends in Indiana. Now we will be leaving friends in Wisconsin. I only hope that somehow, God has used us.

Thanks again for all our friends out there. We love you.

Just In Case...

2007-09-18T11:42:00.000-04:00

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Good Times, God's Hand

2007-09-17T00:41:00.000-04:00

There is much to share and I have attempted many times to write this blog. Each time I just didn't get very far and perhaps I've been a little distracted.

First of all, I got a part time job working with a major transportation company about 30 minutes away! It pays well, but it is third shift and there has been some HUGE adjustments with both myself and my family. Let me just say, there STILL are those adjustments. Please pray for this as I'm not sure it is working out.. I am doing fine while doing the job, but the drive home I have found myself in too many near accident conditions. My body is tired and desperately wants to sleep. I've tried it all, loud music, open windows, Amy's aunt suggested gum chewing, but to no avail. I've been at this job for three weeks and am hoping the next couple will show a better result. I'm a little nervous of these accident conditions and what they will be with the snow and ice on the ground. Again, we will appreciate your prayers.

I am continuing to apply for day jobs, including a Library Director for the one in town. We are hoping soon that one of these positions will work out.

When I have worked, I have worked days for as long as I can remember. There was a small period of time during one summer where I worked as a DJ for a radio station and had to work the graveyard shift. I remember that too well. I would get so tired and sleepy that when I went to play a ministry show (it was a Christian station), I would doze off and wake up to find dead air. YIKES! I never heard about it from anyone, so hopefully no one was listening.

Another thing that is happening is I am director of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" for the Falls Players. We had auditions last week and just today I was finally able to decide on a cast and post it. I am so excited about this opportunity, because I believe God is using this to prepare me for a ministry in the future. It was very tough to decide as I had about 46 children try-out and about 12 adults. It was so wonderful to have the amount of great talent in this small little area. Now it is on to rehearsals and blocking. I have a set design team being formed and we have a meeting at the end of the month. We have performances in mid-November, so be looking for pictures and information on this. My main desire is to be a light to these kids and to help them have fun. Did I mention beyond the 5 lead children that I decided to make the rest of them Oompa Loompas? ;) I know some of you teachers are laughing, but I'm splitting them up in groups of 5-7 to handle the four different chants. They will be helping with scene transitions. There are 11 scenes and only 1 Act. I decided to split it into two halves with a 15 minute intermission. Well, anyway, I won't bore you with anymore of the details, but am looking forward to this with such enthusiasm!

Boy that was a long paragraph and I'm sure my writing critique personnel will be telling me so soon. You know who you are Bekah and Kristin! HA!

Next, I was asked by my previous church in Marion, Indiana to write their Christmas musical. They even offered to pay something! So, I've been working quickly on that so I can get it into their hands soon as Christmas is approaching. All of you Church Music people out there will totally understand why I must work quickly. Thankfully this church has the wonderful talent to put things together, sometimes extremely close to deadlines. I mean that in the best way possible. They are good at this. It is truly an amazing thing!

Finally, and I'm sure I missing one hundred other things that I just can't think of right now, my oldest, Alex and I got a chance to go to a Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins game yesterday. It was his first baseball game ever and he was extremely excited. We parked at the Mall of America and took the Metro Transit train to the Metrodome (many thanks to Dangie for their advice). So Alex also got to ride the "train" for a first time. Let me tell you he made sure to entertain the other passengers. On the way there, he talked his head off to the lady next to us and on the way back we heard a great rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame". Seriously! It had them roaring with laughter and of course he loved every bit of the attention. Amy and I are just not sure where he gets this performance gene. Amy will post some pictures on here site soon of the game. We took a disposable due to the fact our camera is a good size and I didn't want to worry about that along with keeping track of a four year old!

Alex ended up lasting until the beginning of the seventh inning. We listened to the rest of the game on the radio. The good ol' boys won all three games against the twins. Tribe lost and so did Yankees giving us a possible advantage in the Wild Card Standings. Who knows? We might just get another year in the playoffs. Or maybe not.

Well, this pretty much sums it all up. God continues to bless us and take care of us. We received a couple weeks ago a good portion of a pig. We have pork stuffed full in our freezer. Amy has been experimenting with recipes and let me tell you, I think she's found her niche! We've had Apple-glazed pork chops, BBQ Spare Ribs and tonight we had BBQ pulled pork. My wife is so amazing and has become very resourceful during this time. Thanks Amy for all you do to help make our family "run".

Well, I should try and get some sleep. We love you all and continue to appreciate your prayers and support. It is such an awesome feeling to know we are truly a part of the FAMILY OF GOD!

Our Perspective...God's Perspective

2007-08-21T09:43:00.000-04:00

You know God is good at helping us put our lives in perspective with others. It is so easy to believe two horrible lies of the Enemy.

1) There's no one out there who's going through what I'm going through.
2) What I'm going through is by far the worse thing.

Raise your hand if you've ever fallen trap to these thoughts. If you are careful to pay attention He will show you that they truly are lies. For instance, over the weekend a couple of things took place that showed us this.

First of all, a little boy in Ohio. A four year old who was in a lawn mowing accident. His Mom and Dad did what they could and because of that they saved his life, but the doctors had to amputate his leg below the knee. All this happened so quickly and I have been in prayer for this family. God is faithful. The report has been that he is still the same little boy, with the same characteristics and personality.

Second, my wife's cousin's husband was tubing somewhere in Michigan. They have been married for only a few months. Her husband doesn't swim and something happened where he tipped over. It was him and and a co-worker from Saginaw Valley State University. I don't know all the details, but what I know is that he was saved while the co-worker drowned. This was just after a week of retreat and training for the coming school year.

I could also go on and on about hurricanes and earthquakes and floods, but I think you get the point.

These could all be very depressing things and the Enemy would sure like to bring you down to his level. Let me encourage you, God knows about them and He cares! He knows what you are going through right now. There are so many verses and so many promises in His Word, but here are a couple I would like to share.

John 16:33: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world."

Ephesians 3:20: "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."

You know, I have been through many trials and circumstances in my life and maybe some day I will share those things from the past. One thing has remained true; God is able. He's never let me down....ever!

When I was a freshman in college, I had the most awesome opportunity to be a part of a traveling ministry group called Hosanna. What an experience! Thanks to those of you who put up with me during that time. It meant so much. Anyway, one of the songs we used was, "He is able". I want to leave you with those words and if you know the music, please sing along. I hope it ministers to your heart today.

He Is Able
Greg Ferguson, Rory Noland

He is able, more than able
to accomplish what concerns me today.
He is able, more than able
to handle anything that comes my way.

He is able, more than able
to do much more than I could ever dream,
He is able, more than able,
to make me what He wants me to be.

©1989 Maranatha Praise, Inc. (Admin. by The Copyright Company)
All rights reserved. International copyright secured.
CCLI song #115420

What A Tangled Web We Weave...

2007-08-16T18:12:00.000-04:00

It is with some regret that I share with you this true account.

I want to start from the beginning, which will bring you back to last Friday. I was told through a reliable source that the warehouse in which I worked was closing. The person told me that it would be closing only for the New Year's season, but I started to question that.

I proceeded to call up the two full-time warehouse supervisors hired while I was there to see if they had heard anything. No, they hadn't. I told them about what I had heard, but that I didn't have any details.

Then Monday, August 13 rolls around. A call is placed from the acting General Manager from this facility to a temp agency. The spoken word was that it looked like Friday would be the last day as he would be heading back to his home state. The temp agency reports this to its employees and one of those employees reports this to one of the supervisors. Please note there has still be no word to the full-time employees.

So this supervisor decides to call the Big Cheese in Indiana. The supervisor asks if the place is closing Friday and then boss man asks who told him. He said he has heard it from another employee and this was said from the boss: "It must have been that Chris Rayment. He doesn't know his a** from a hole in the ground." The warehouse supervisor says nothing, then returns to asking if the warehouse would close. The boss tells him that he doesn't know details and that things are still getting worked out. He then tells them he will be up here by the middle of the week.

Well....Tuesday rolls by and Wednesday rolls by and then comes today. The boss man shows up with two of his own staff, the head of security from the corporate office and then two Jackson county sheriff deputies. I think the boss man expected a riot or something....but I digress.

The two warehouse supervisors are told they are terminated. They are handed their last paycheck, their severance pay and a bonus check because the boss man thought they "deserved" it. Please note that this was the FIRST time that any company officials informed these poor guys about this. The reason for the place closing was chocked up to "low sales and high costs" and was supposedly just for "a while" and might be reopened in the spring. However, one of the supervisors made it a point to let boss man know that things started going downhill the moment they fired the previous General Manager...umm for those of you who read this blog...that's me.

This then ends another saga with this company. Oh, wait, I forgot to mention that the checks were dated Monday, August 13. Oh yeah, it seems the boss man knew what was going on for a long while.

For those of you who had seen my post questioning why the corporate office had checked my blog it was meant to be rhetorical. I knew why. It was because they were checking to see if I had posted anything. I doubt they will check now, but if they do, there is nothing here but truth.

Overall...I'm deeply saddened that this all happened. You know why? I cared about the employees that God had given to me. I hate to see these kinds of things happen. My prayers are with them and I've already mentioned several times that my door is always open if they need a place to go.

Will you pray for them too? I sure hope you will. Thanks in advance.

It speaks for itself...

2007-08-08T22:28:00.000-04:00

Waiting for His glory...

2007-08-04T11:49:00.000-04:00

For those of you who look at both our blogs, this will be a repeat. I'm always very proud of my wife and I just thought her post needed to be in both places.

I'm way behind on my Today in the Word devotions and this was part of July 24ths devotion. As usual it was a good kick in the rear. Things are still pretty stressful around here. Vacation last week was nice and it's good to be home, but being home also meant getting hit with a bunch of problems, that any other time would not have been an issue.

For instance, I ruined some clothes with a red shirt (that had been washed a million times before). I put Chris' bird bath and hummingbird feeders in the dishwasher and melted them into abstract art forms. I didn't pump much last week because Colin was finally nursing well... only to come back to low milk supply and a TOOTH to chew on Mommy with Weds.

Anyway, after a near meltdown this week, God very nicely put everything back into perspective with his Word this morning.

1 Peter 4:12-13

12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.

No, our situation hasn't changed, but I have 2 beautiful boys and a husband who loves me. And more importantly, a God who knows how much I can handle and the glory beyond my wildest dreams that I have to hold onto in the midst of this dark valley. Please keep praying!

Faith in God...

2007-07-11T10:37:00.000-04:00

I try hard to spend time in God's Word on a daily basis. I use a devotional and a reading plan. The devotional I've mentioned before, but God is using it in a big way for us. This month's is all about faith and the promise that God is there with us. The biblical examples that Dr. Michael Easley has given hit very close to home.

I was reading yesterday in 2 Samuel 22, when I came across verse 30. Here's the verse: "With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall." The emphasis is mine, of course, but what a word from King David. This verse is a part of his song of praise shortly before he dies. This "man after God's own heart" dealt with so much uncertainty, not to mention temptation and sin. He looks back on his life and this is what he sees as truth and as hope.

Over the past year, God has allowed so much to happen in my life, in this little city of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, that just continues to show me what that really means. I've been going to church all my life and not once have been I able to understand faith like this. Do I know everything there is to know? Not on your life, but the peace and contentment that are always there is simply unbelievable. Too bad it has taken me thirty years to get to this point, but PRAISE HIM FOR HIS FAITHFULNESS! (Philippians 1:6)

If I spend time in prayer asking God to do something and then I go out and try to plan and organize it and do it on my own....well...I fall FLAT on my bottom. And get this; as head of my household, I take my family with me. What a huge responsibility this is! I've always known this truth, but it is becoming much more alive and "in my face."

If after I ask God in prayer for His help and then I rely one hundred percent on Him, He can and has done AMAZING thing! The one thing He keeps speaking to me is to trust Him and sit back and watch Him work. I have been doing this and to His glory He is meeting our every need. He continues to stretch us and ask us to step further out on this "limb" of faith. Every day we find ourselves obeying sooner and taking bigger steps than we ever thought possible.

In God, we are SCALING THIS WALL! Woohoo!

Amy, Alex, Colin and I would very much appreciate your continued prayers and support as we learn more and more every day. I still haven't found work, but have continued to have interviews and the wonderful support of the BRF community. Amy continues to get sub jobs at the daycare and God knows exactly what we need.

Thank you in advance. We love you all.

A "Gentle" Reminder

2007-07-09T13:24:00.000-04:00

It has been a while since I've been able to share with you about something Alex has taught me. God never ceases to amaze me how He uses that little guy (who seems to remind me too much of myself) to teach me lessons.

I don't know if you'll need a tissue for this one, but I sure did.

It was about a week ago and I was in our bedroom sitting in the recliner. I was reading a book and listening to my Tigers on XM Radio. I heard Alex talking to Amy about something. I wasn't sure,at first, what it was, then I deciphered that he wanted her to sing a song. Amy suggested he ask me because she couldn't remember it so well.

He enters into my room carrying this plaque. It's not the best picture, but I wanted to show it to you. We received this plaque as a going away gift from a church family we found so hard to leave, Chapel Pike Wesleyan. I had it displayed on the shelf with my hymnal collection.

Alex asked me to sing the song and at that moment, I didn't want to. I wanted to first finish the chapter I was reading. He insisted and I got frustrated with him and told him so in a raised voice. He looked like he was about to cry, so I took the plaque from him and said, "Fine." Then I looked at it and started to sing, "Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us..." When I got to that point I started to get tears in my eyes as the Holy Spirit began to nudge me. I needed to first apologize to my son for how I had acted. Then I finished it. Alex then asked me to sing it again. I didn't hesitate this time, I just did it.

I know beyond a shadow of doubt that my son (without his knowing?) was being used by God to remind me that He was right there all the time. Can you believe it? God put the that thought into my first born son's mind (who I may need to remind you is only 4 years of age) and he obeyed. Thanks Alex. Thanks God. You make a great team!

Then this morning as I was about to take the picture, I brought the plaque over to my precious wife, Amy. She read it and remembered that Alex had wanted her to sing it. She handed it back to me and then brushed tears from her eyes. I asked her if she was crying and she said "No." She said no, but I knew better.

God is truly an awesome God! Are you aware of that? He is simply amazing!

Here are those words that ministered so sweetly to our hearts. I hope they are also your "Gentle" reminder.

Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us,
For we need You to help us find our way.
Gentle Shepherd, come and feed us,
For we need Your strength from day to day.
There's no other we can turn to
Who can help us find another day;
Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us,
For we need You to help us find our way.

Bill & Gloria Gaither

Stay, Frederic, Stay

2007-06-25T12:03:00.001-04:00

Okay, here is a video clip my mom took. It isn't the greatest quality, but you can hear our duet. The girl who is playing Mabel is only sixteen years old. Those of you who know voices: Isn't she amazing for that age?

Hope you enjoy it!

The Curtain Closes...

2007-06-25T09:28:00.001-04:00

What a great moment! This weekend I had the best and biggest opportunity I have ever had. I got the chance to play Frederic (male lead) in the musical "Pirates of Penzance".

You may not know this show, but this part is very tough vocally and required a lot of warm-up and a ton of memorization. The show opened Friday night and I was terribly concerned as to whether I could repeatedly hit the high B-flat every night. This was also my debut with the Falls Players here in Jackson County and I was a little nervous as to how I would be received.

The nervousness turned into humility as I walked out on the stage for the curtain call and the applause grew. I nearly forgot to take my bow and just about broke down in tears. Why? Because I wasn't hearing just the applause of men, but of Heaven. I could sense God's presence in that beautiful moment. He's such an Awesome God!

All weekend long He just continued to bless me. My parents and grandparents came all the way from Davison, Michigan to see me perform and my little Alex in his new shirt and tie (thanks to his other grandma) came to see his daddy be a pirate. Man, am I blessed or what?

I know I realize you just did a double take. Yes, this is me with hair. In fact, the director and costume mistress were so dumbfounded that the wig fit so perfectly that they gave it to me. No, I will not be wearing it all around town. Ha! The best part came when I stood in the reception line to meet my parents. They informed me that once the curtain had opened they were waiting for me to make my entrance. What they didn't realize until the first song was completed and the dialogue began was that I was ALREADY THERE! Yes, my own parents didn't even recognize me. I never laughed so hard!

I continued to be in awe of the King of Kings as the weekend continued. My voice grew so tired, but each night I dedicated the performance to Him. It is to His glory that indeed every night I was able to hit all the notes and remember all the words and lines. It is to His glory that everyone in the cast made it their concern and commented that they weren't going to give Amy and I up so easily. They would help find me a job. One gentleman came along side me yesterday in between acts and told me that he had been praying for me. We serve a Mighty God!

Of course, though, in the great balance of life, some good things must come to an end. Sunday night after the matinee performance I took my family to a scenic outlook not too far from here. We got a chance to photograph several beautiful sunset pictures. Amy took this one. Isn't it just gorgeous? How can you look at this picture and not know that God exists?

"Ah yes, ah yes, this is exceeding gladness." I walked away from the weekend being abundantly thankful for so much that God has given to me. I've found that resting in Him no matter what the circumstances has been the best decision I could have ever made. We sang this song in church yesterday and I think it's a perfect conclusion; "...if ever I loved Thee, my Jesus 'tis now."

To Him be the glory....even as this curtain closes.

A Healthy Dose of Friends...

2007-06-21T10:00:00.000-04:00

Good morning! I have something else that I will post later, but I wanted to take this time to encourage you to do something.

I have several friends on the right of this page. Each of them have a blog and if you simply click on that link you will be taken to their sites.

This list is full of amazing and wonderful people. They each are on the path of life and they are each walking with God and believe Jesus Christ is the answer for everything in their lives.

I challenge you to take some time and instead of reading this blog go check them out! I won't be surprised if you come back and have experienced not only their hearts, but sense the presence of God in their lives.

See you soon!

You Will Not Grow Tired...

2007-06-19T08:08:00.000-04:00

Wow! My family and I just can't seem to get enough of God's provision and faithfulness! He is such an awesome God!

I admit that I've been a little weary. I've been tired, as I know my wife has been. We long to do God's will no matter what and because of this we keep resting in Him. Or should I say we keep "trying" to rest in Him?

I have a devotional that I read through on an almost daily basis. I say almost because I was a day behind. It is Today in the Word from the Moody Bible Institute. This month we've been studying the book of Isaiah. Here was yesterday's scripture verses:

Isaiah 40:25-31 (New International Version)

25 "To whom will you compare me?
Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.

26 Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:
Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one,
and calls them each by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
not one of them is missing.

27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and complain, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the LORD;
my cause is disregarded by my God"?

28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.

29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.

30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;

31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

What a much needed reminder. I again admit that sometimes I have felt like my way was hidden from God. But I know this is untrue. He knows me. He knows a word before it ever leaves my lips.

I find it just like God to bring others into our lives during those "valley" moments that seem to be even deeper in that valley. He's done that for us. There is a couple we know in Marion that is struggling. It breaks our heart to hear it. In fact, I got home from my rehearsal last night to know that Mommy and Alex had prayed for their kids and that their family would be healed.

Have I told you what a most fantastic and wonderful family I have? I am beyond blessed.

Today is our wedding anniversary. Eight years ago today we stood in front of family and friends and vowed to stay together no matter what. I praise God every day that even through our own struggles, He has helped us to be faithful to those promises.

I love my wife, Amy. She is truly a friend, a companion and a beautiful mother. Tears fill my eyes right now as I think of all the ways she has supported me. Thank you, my dear, sweet Princess.

On another note, last night a possible job opportunity sort of fell in my lap. If it works out it might truly be the dream job of my heart. I don't want to give all the details yet, but will you pray that if this is where God is directing that He will open wide the door?

I am so thankful. I have never had a community of people looking so hard to find me a job so that they can keep me and my family. This may sound arrogant, but believe me when I say, I am completely humbled.

God is good........and all the time.....

May He show Himself to you today.

A Poetic Past

2007-06-10T08:19:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I figured you might like a change of pace from the doldrum of jobless updates, etc.

Here are a couple of poems I wrote. One is definitely from my first days at Indiana Wesleyan University. I believe the other two are from high school. I hope you enjoy them.

Please Note: Those of you who are indeed writers, please excuse any punctuation or grammar errors. Thanks. :)

ECSTASY!

Remembering my childhood fantasies
I look back on all the goals I set before me.
Throughout my life I have achieved
Goal, after goal, after goal.
My ability to achieve comes from one source
And one source only, God.
Never will I forget that day,
When I gave my life to Jesus Christ.
Now as my life heads toward His light,
I find myself getting excited
More and more about His Kingdom.
Ecstasy fills my soul and heart
As I can not even imagine what is there.
Oh Glory, won't that be the day
When the skies shall divide
And behold the Lord shall descend from above
To take us to our eternal home.
Hallelujah!

~ September 9, 1995

Today is Important

I am happy with what God
gave to me today,
The winter snow, the bright sky,
the open landscape.
I am happy with what God
gave to me today,
A gentle smile, a soft touch,
a simple song of beauty.
I am happy with what God
gave to me today,
A warm heart filled with bubbling joy
and even a quiet afternoon.
And even though trials may come,
With each and every tomorrow.
I will still be happy with what God
gave to me today.
Because a tomorrow isn't important
until it becomes another today.

EMPTY SCRIPTS FILLED WITH EMPTY DREAMS

It's time for me to make my exit,
This play has almost come to it's end.
Soon the curtain call will happen
And I will be tossed away
Just like the garbage from yesterday.
It's okay, I'm used to it.
Only trouble is, is this;
The two are in love, that's good.
But, their story will keep going,
While my short time is finished here.
There will be another play,
And another couple who will fall in love.
All too soon will it disappear
With me holding the empty scripts,
Having to start all over again.
Each time I feel a piece of me taken.
One day, there will be nothing left to take.

The Journey Continues...

2007-06-04T08:56:00.000-04:00

Hello there....

I'm not sure what to post to tell you the truth. Things are still about the same....God continues to take care of us. The things He continues to teach us as we attend our church here has been overwhelming.

Our home right now has begun to be a hangout for a couple of people. This has been great as Amy and I have always welcomed so many in our home. I think I will need to break out the cappuccino maker the next time someone drops by.

In the process of the past month, our friends, Bill and Kristin Hand, have made the comment they would love to have us come live in Mason City, Iowa. We really weren't sure about this, but when Kristin emailed me a possible job with her company, I figured I would see where the open door might lead.

That very week I had a telephone interview with the HR person and then we decided to head down to their house for Memorial Day weekend. It was the weekend where they have a two hour parade that has mostly marching bands. Anyway, we felt it necessary to go and see what God might have in store for us.

We got to meet some wonderful people and then we headed back home still not sure. We hadn't been given the vision yet to help with this church plant. On Tuesday, we got a call from the company and they wanted me to come out for an face-to-face interview. I felt it went well and I was amazed at all this plant does and who they have for customers. We had dinner that night with B&K and then left Sat. morning.

Amy and I have been praying that God would give us a peace about this regardless of whether I would get the job offer or not. We've also prayed that He would close and open the right doors.

We've made it a point this week to take extra time to pray individually and together so that we may hear God's still small voice. I would appreciate your prayers that we would be still enough to hear Him. For those of you who know me, I'm not always such a still and calm person.

You can stop laughing now.

I was instant messaging my grandmother last night. By the way, she is an excellent pianist. If you want you can click here to hear her most recent offertory. I was sharing with her how much God continues to show His face to us.

One of the things we have done over the years is share song lyrics to hymns or choruses with each other. She will start typing a song and then I'll come in with the second or third line. We continue until the song is done. Last night I shared with her the following lyrics that really do express where Amy and I are at this moment.

When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrow like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul.

I'll let you finish the song on your own. Have a great day!

Hope...

2007-05-20T21:19:00.000-04:00

I know that it has been a while since I've posted. There have been a few of you that have been faithful in checking in with the blog and I am sure the same for your prayers.

God continues to be faithful. I deposited the last paycheck I received (on May 4) in our checking this week. Amy and I made a commitment about 4 years ago now that we would continue to tithe on whatever income we receive. I wrote out the tithe check and set it aside for Sunday.

Later that afternoon, I walked out to the mailbox and I pulled out an envelope from a Sales rep in Stand and Tent for the company with which I worked. I opened it up and received a letter and a check. The letter described how he meets weekly with a buddy for prayer. They have been praying for us and felt led to send us money. This may mean nothing to you, but it was for half of the tithe check.

God is good.

We had our appointment to see if we were eligible for Food Stamps and Badgercare (Medicaid). God took care of us as we will now all be covered for health, dental and vision and we will have more money for food than we've ever needed. We still need to cover other bills, but we know God will supply.

This morning our Pastor and his wife shared with the congregation something that had grieved them this week. They described how it happened and then she shared with us how God brought to her during this week's time of healing the same song of which I have spoken, "Blessed Be the Name". Needless to say I was in tears when she said the words, "...and I'll never be the same again. It helped me to to worship deeper than I ever have." Amy and I are dealing with a totally different circumstance, but to hear from our Pastor and his wife about how they are handling grief, well it was, humbling and reassuring. It reminds us that God put us here in Wisconsin for a reason.

"The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised."
Job 1:21b (NIV)

I thank God for the past two weeks. I thank Him for the opportunity for growth in my relationship with Him, with my wife and my family. I thank Him for giving us a chance to be an example. He has been our strength. He has been our provision. He has been our hope.

I don't know everyone who reads this. I don't know if any of you are going through anything right now in your lives. Do you feel like you are suffering or grieving something or someone? Amy and I would like to know. We want to pray for you specifically. We want this to be our ministry during this time. God has given us strength to not just sit around. We want to help bear others' burdens. Please don't hesitate to leave a comment. You can leave it anonymously if ya want. The body of Christ exists to carry one another's burdens and it's the least that we can do.

Promise of the week:
1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Romans 5:1-5 (NIV)

Isn't that awesome! Remember this week that His "...hope does not disappoint us..."

Every cloud...

2007-05-11T11:39:00.000-04:00

Okay...so who here knows that God is awesome! Come on let me hear it!

I was sitting at the computer yesterday trying to find work. Amy was sitting on the couch with Alex and they were eating lunch. I was a little preoccupied with my search until I heard this conversation.

ALEX: When Colin grows up and dies he's going to go to heaven.
AMY: Well, you must first ask Jesus in your heart before you can go to heaven.
ALEX: I'm going to pray that.

That is when I came in and asked Alex if he wanted to ask Jesus into his heart. He said he would. I told him what that meant and then I asked him again. He told me he had already said yes. I led him in the prayer and my little 4 year old is now not only a child of Chris & Amy, but a child of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Wow! I am so blessed right now that I can't even see the screen through my tears. What a mighty and awesome God we serve! I don't even know what else to say. One of my great friends from college made the comment the other night that she would pray that God would continue to WOW us. He just keeps doing it.

Please continue to pray for God's leading and direction. We don't want to get ahead of God just yet, we really believe that He has allowed this for His might purpose. One of the other great things that has been happening is that we as husband and wife have been able to pray together more than we ever have.

One of the things that Amy prayed yesterday is that in all this we want Him to be glorified. I love my wife. Have I mentioned that recently? She continues to amaze me. She is the best mom, wife and friend that one could ever know. She is a strong woman of God. I am thankful for her support. God sure knew what He was doing when He sent her to me.

Most of you who read this might not have been at our wedding. I wrote a song for Amy and sang it to her on that day. Here are the lyrics to that song. They still mean the same to me as when I first wrote them almost 8 years ago.

Amy’s Song

My heart fills with Joy
As you enter into the room
And one look in your eyes
Will turn away all the gloom
I can’t believe you love me
I don’t know why you do
The time is now to say my love
I give my heart to you.

(CHORUS)
God gave me you
A special gift of Love
He molded and melted you
And sent you from above
Each time that you need someone
Or want to cry on me
I promise this day to be there, my love
Oh I thank the Lord for you.

There’s that little smile again
That gets me warm inside
It sparks the God given happiness
And total peace of mind
Here we are together
Holding hand in hand
And as I say my vows to you, my love
I’ll say I choose to be your man

Sometimes He comes...

2007-05-09T21:29:00.000-04:00

We could really use your prayers. This has been one of those fall apart days. I believe the job is mine in Osseo, unfortunately it isn't going to pay enough to even support us here and the house in Marion that just refuses to sell.

We've come to a point of questioning God, asking Him why. We put the car up for sale in February. We even put it on Cars.com, but to no avail. The house has been on the market since April 1, 2006. TNT was paying our rent here because if they didn't we would have returned to Indiana even sooner.

We are now at a crossroads. We won't be able to move back to Indiana because it costs way more than what I received for severance pay. We can't stay here because we can't afford to rent here and pay a house payment there.

We prayed and prayed about letting the house go about two months ago. We had some advice from our friend who is currently working on the house, that we should just let it go. After praying and seeking of wise counsel, we just felt it wasn't right in God's eyes to let it go.

Amy and I are feeling totally overwhelmed and today was one of those days where it was hard to see God. As I write this I am reminded in my heart (Thanks God) about the song sung by Steven Curtis Chapman, "Sometimes He Comes in the Clouds".

Please, as we try to anchor in Him daily as it seems the storm keeps tossing us to and fro, pray that we will continue to see His face. It is tough for us as doubt is starting to set.

Thank you all so much for the support you have given either by a comment, phone call or email. It has touched our hearts and we are grateful.

Love you all,
Chris, Amy, Alex & Colin

He Gives...

2007-05-05T09:48:00.000-04:00

...and He takes away.

I have been over and over this in my mind trying to figure out how to post this. This will be one of the most difficult posts I have ever made. I've tried to think which is the best way. Questions I've asked myself: Should I do it chronological? Should I just pick up where I am now? Should I even say anything?

I could only answer the last one, "Yes."

On Tuesday, May 1, 2007, I was General Manager of TNT Fireworks in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. Things were running fairly well. We were a little behind schedule, but that was due to product being late from China. I had employed for me at the time about 20 people. It was the best staff with which I've ever worked. Then I got an email about a couple more spreadsheets that we were going to be asked to complete. This would be on a daily basis and along with the plethora of other spreadsheets and daily reports we needed to fill out and/or run.

I took some time to look over them and posed the question to my boss, Greg (Marion, IN), as to why we needed to do these. My reasoning was because I knew we had an automated system in place that could run these reports for us without us having to do much at all. He posed the question to those higher up and the answer was that no one had time and they would not be able to do it, until they had an intern. This intern wouldn't be available for another couple of weeks. Interesting, I thought. I am never allowed to have this excuse. I am expected to do it anyway, even if I'm staying past 5pm. Greg emailed me and told me I would just have to find out a way. If I had a dollar for every time I was told to figure it out without hiring a new person, I would have more money than what I was being paid. Ha!

Later that morning, I received about 10 emails with information to hold certain stores or to ship others earlier than the original plan. This wasn't a huge issue in that this happens every year. It is a little frustrating, however, because when we receive a certain packet via UPS, then that packet is usually the green light that we can build and ship these orders.

Well, Greg had asked me two weeks previous to this whenever I got frustrated to please email him. He wanted to be the filter. This is due to an email I had sent to one of the individuals down in Alabama. As he stated in an email, it wasn't against the policy manual and it wasn't against the law, but it was a little harsh. I was willing to send these emails to him, as I worked on not sending them at all.

That morning I forwarded him these 10 emails and expressed my frustration with a simple, "Unbelievable!" He replied to this that it is just part of the deal and he wanted me to move on. Well this frustrated me more because as a filter I didn't expect to get the same "just deal with it" routine, I just wanted a sounding board. I replied to him this and knowing that he would want to call me and read my email back to me, like he has done so often, I asked him not to call, because I was heading out in the warehouse and needed to be out there for at least the next hour.

He called anyway. I was already out in the warehouse and didn't get to the phone. We had a lot on our plate and much to do. He kept calling and calling. Finally when I returned to my email about an hour and a half later, I found an email asking me why I was disrespecting him. I replied that where I come from, respect is earned and not just by position. I told him that I always keep him in the loop and asked him right now to please use email as our communication. I also expressed that no matter my frustration, I would and always had done my job and got it done. This was the last email. I tried to call him a couple of times that afternoon for other reasons, but to no avail, so I sent out emails in regard to the issues we had discovered.

On, Wednesday, May 2, I came to work a little after 6am to get caught up on stuff, since because I was in the warehouse the previous day, I wasn't able to accomplish everything. Plus, I had to get a DOT physical on that Tuesday and I had to be home in time so I could load my family up and take my in-laws to the airport in La Crosse. On the way to the airport, I remember sharing this issue with my in-laws and my wife and my father in-law said, "Why can't they just let you do your job and leave you alone?"

Anyway, things were going well. I had an appointment for 2pm with the representative from our temp agency and she informed me over the phone that we would have to do a site survey. She showed up a little earlier with a Diet Coke (Thanks, Michelle). I had a driver with one of our freight companies and my Director of Operations (Ray) in my office as they were signing paperwork to get a fully loaded trailer.

Then I saw them. Greg and another gentleman, who I didn't know, but recognized.

Greg came into the office and immediately demanded that Ray and the driver leave, then he shut the door. He then told me that due to the fact that I refused to answer his calls and with the issue I had last summer with a sales associate (which I was instructed to take a seminar in managing people), that he was going to have to terminate me and effective immediately. He told me I would need to surrender my keys, credit cards and vehicle. All of which I did, then I gathered up my personal items and was out within 30 minutes. I was escorted out and driven home in the vehicle I had been given by the company.

I then went into my apartment and shaking like a leaf, and with tears in my eyes, I had to tell my wife, that I no longer had a job. She immediately started to cry and said, "We have nothing." From a human standpoint, she was right, we both had no jobs and lots of bills. But I told her we would be okay and that I knew God would take care of us. We held each other a little, then I needed to clean out the car. She asked if I wanted help and I told her if she felt up to it, I could use it. Together we cleaned it out and watched as the head of security for the corporate office drove away. Then we went inside and cried some more. We then took the time to pray and God laid on my heart Jeremiah 29:11-14 and I spoke these words to Amy. His peace calmed us and I started to make phone calls to all of the reps from all the companies with which I had worked. I wanted to let them all know that I appreciated working with them and that it was a pleasure knowing them. I also informed them that they would be working with Ray (now interim GM).

Amy went to pick up Alex and she told me about this conversation.

AMY:Now you will need to give Daddy extra kisses and hugs
ALEX: Did he have another bad day at work?
AMY: Yes.
ALEX: Oh brother.

When he got home he just hugged and kissed me. Thanks God, for my children.

I received some calls expressing that we would have their help and support no matter what we decided. It was simply amazing to think we had more friends than we ever realized. God just kept showing up through them. Amy and I prayed throughout the rest of the evening. We actually went to bed, but I didn't sleep so well.

At about 2am on Thursday, May 3, I woke up with huge knots in my stomach and thoughts of bitterness and anger starting to creep in. I got up and walked into the living room and started praying. I asked God to defeat Satan and to help me to resist the temptation to be angry and bitter.

If you read this blog, you would have seen how I had already dealt with a lot of that junk when I first came to Wisconsin a year ago and I wasn't going back. I also asked Him to take away the knots in my stomach and to give me His peace. He did so immediately and as I felt it go away, I gave Him praise. Then the song came to my heart. When the darkness closes in, Lord, still I will say. Blessed be the Name of the Lord, Blessed be the name of the Lord. He gives and takes away, He gives and takes away, my heart will choose to say, Lord, blessed be Your name.

Would you know that it was one of the songs that we had sung last Sunday in church? I couldn't help it, I just kept singing it. As tears trickled down my cheeks, I kept singing it and knew in my heart, that I meant it. He was the way. Then I started to pray again and I bowed down seeking His face and immediately I saw a whiteness come over me and envelope me. I knew that it was God and despite the part I played in the situation, He was still cleansing me white as snow. Then I heard His whisper, "Let Me lead you. Let Me lead you. Just trust in Me." In my heart, I knew that this was all a part of His plan. Ever since I was up here I kept telling people, that God brought us here not just for TNT, but for another purpose. I felt strongly that God was leading us to stay here instead of heading back to Marion, at least for the moment.

I went into bed and was about to sleep, but felt God directing me to just put my arm around Amy. She started to cry a little and I just started praying. We slept better after that. Praise the Lord!

The rest of the day went well. We went to get applications for me and then we also got an appointment for WIC and Food Share. My pastor's wife called me to tell me about a position at her bank, so I went there with resume in hand. All the while, knowing that God already had a position somewhere for me.

Before we left, Alex asked me why I wasn't at work and I told him I don't work for TNT anymore. He gave me another hug and told me he would miss TNT. Then when we were about to go, he went outside ahead of us and came back in asking, "Daddy, where's your big black car?" I told him that because Daddy didn't work for TNT, that we wouldn't have that car anymore. I told him that Ray had it now and he said, "But Ray doesn't need it, he has his truck." You got to love kids!

Yesterday, Friday, May 4, we got ready to take Alex to his preschool and Amy dropped me off somewhere and I faxed the remaining paperwork to TNT that they had requested. Amy came back and picked me up and we went to go pay a sitter who had watched Colin for us so Amy could work for TNT. Amy told her what had happened and Marie told her when she was available she would watch Colin for free until we found something. Amy and I deposited some checks and got a certified check so that we could pay for the roof being built back in Marion. Amy informed me that while she was at the preschool they offered her a full time job if she wanted it. Thank you, Father!

Then we came home and took a nap. When I woke up I took some time to read my email and then my Grandma Darling popped on Instant Messenger and we chatted for a few minutes. Amy went to go get Alex and I was about done with my conversation with Grandma when the phone rang. It was Marie's husband. We had a chance to sit near each other at church during a new family dinner after the morning service back at the beginning of April. He asked me how I was doing and he then told me before I answered him that he wanted to tell me that I was doing fine.

He told me that he had been thinking about a new position in a company he works for in Osseo (30 min away) all day long. He was trying to define it and think about how it might work out. When he got home, Marie told him about me and how I had lost my job. He told me that the Holy Spirit came over him and he knew that he must offer me an interview for this position. He asked me what I would be doing next Wednesday and I told him nothing. He instructed me to be ready for an interview for this company. He explained the job description. It would be the exact same stuff I was doing for TNT! Wow! PRAISE THE LORD!!

When the darkness closes in
Lord, still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord

He gives and takes away
He gives and takes away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name.

God is so good. No matter what happens next, we can rest in His "Everlasting Arms".

The Best Dad in the Whole World...

2007-04-23T11:45:00.000-04:00

Wow! What a weekend! My wife has already blogged a little about what I did, but I would like to expand a bit.

I got a wonderful chance to spend extra time with Alex this weekend. Well, it actually started on Thursday. I was getting ready to go to work when Alex woke up and came to me. His typical question every morning to Amy or me is "Where am I going today?" I told him that he wouldn't be going anywhere because he needed to stay home and help Mommy with Colin. He whined a little. He then proceeded to do this little manipulative thing where he shrugs his shoulders and then hangs his arms at his sides, all the while drooping his head. It is truly the cutest thing ever and it makes me laugh. I shouldn't laugh because he is (supposedly) very sad, but I can't help it.

So I asked him where he wanted to go and he said to the library. I told him that when I got home from work we would go. This cheered him up. I also told him to call me and remind me so I wouldn't forget. It was so great. Listen to this. Around 11am that morning I get call from him and here's what took place:

Alex: Hi, Daddy
Me: Hi, Alex. How are you?
Alex: Good. Umm.. Daddy...umm...are we still going to the library?
Me: Yes we are buddy.
Alex: Okay, Daddy. Bye. Love you. (CLICK)

How can you not love that? So we went to the library that night and had a bunch of fun. On the way home, we picked up a couple of bags of cotton candy from a street vendor. We got a pink one for Mommy and a blue one for us boys.

Saturday rolls around and we get ready to go "treasure hunting" (a.k.a. geocaching). Just click on the link if you would like to know more. We got out and have a blast. We found one of the two that day and then we went to the convenience store for some refreshment.

Let me back up though because I have to share another Alex tale. Here's the scoop. His next door neighbor friend (Melissa) had fallen earlier in the week and broke her wrist. Well, Mommy thought it would be a nice idea to get a little gift for her and have Alex deliver it. I bought the gift at Walmart and then she got it ready for him. He was so excited to take it over there.

He had been gone a while and Amy asked me to go check on him. I went out and looked in their garage and Alex was still knocking on the door. I told him that maybe they weren't home yet. He turns to look at me and then his face just drops and he starts to cry and run toward me, dropping the gift bag in the process. He ran into my arms and I just held him. I got to tell you that I had never seen his little heart so broken as it was in that moment. I could honestly feel his pain and it was all I could do not to break into tears too.

This may sound like a previous post, but can you imagine that God does this for us? He takes us in his arms when our hearts have been broken and its everything He can do not to cry with us. WOW! I'm wondering why it's taken me four years to see this kind of stuff.

He was able to deliver the gift and it was all he could do to keep the excitement down as he helped Melissa take the stuff out of the bag. It was so funny how he described all that she could do with the book and gifts. It was as if he had picked it out himself.

Okay now here is the best part. I know, I know, there is nothing like a good dose of tangents, eh? Alex and I went geocaching again on Sunday afternoon. The last cache was a little more of a climb than I had anticipated. We started out on the pathway and the whole time Alex was singing a made-up song, "We are treasure hunters, we are treasure hunters..." We got to the very top of this mountain/hill and we just looked out at all we could see. It was so cool. We finally found the cache which was on the side and we had to be careful not to slip or we may have slid back down. That is why Amy commented about how it was good thing she didn't know about it. Hee! Never fear, Daddy and Father God protected him. Well as we were about to head back down, Alex asked if I would carry him on my shoulders. I told him I would and when we got half way down we had the following conversation:

Alex: Umm..Daddy?
Me: Yes?
Alex: Umm...I love you, Dad.
Me: I love you too, buddy. I'm hope you are having fun. I know I am.
Alex: You're the best dad in the whole world.
Me: Thanks. You're the best son in the world.
Alex: Thanks.

Anyway, I'm really glad I had the weekend I did with my oldest son. I can't wait for more. Hopefully next time we can take Colin and Mommy on our adventures.

Even the Rocks will cry out...

2007-04-20T10:57:00.000-04:00

This is got to be the coolest thing. Take a look at this article:

http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/070418_solar_music.html

Read it and then come back.

Isn't that amazing? I mean come on all of you who are atheists, agnostics, etc. The scientists explain it away with great terminology and stuff. What I am quite certain of and it would be hard to prove to me otherwise is that the Sun is actually worshiping God with that music.

The Bible says that even the rocks will cry out in praise to the King. Hello. Anyone out there? Anyone not see how cool that is?

Our God is truly an AWESOME GOD!

A Special and Individual Love

2007-04-14T22:15:00.000-04:00

Can you imagine this? I am a Daddy not once, but now twice!

Amy and I were alone with Colin this morning since Alex was with his Grammy and Papa Rayment at the hotel. We had a chance to just talk about being parents.

Amy made the comment that it was amazing how God could give us the same amount of love (if you could actually measure love) for both our boys. Wow! What a thought!

Those of you who have more than one child will agree I am sure. But you may also agree that its more than having the same amount of love. It goes deeper. It's an individual love.

What do I mean? It will sound simple. The love I have for Alex isn't the love I have for Colin and vice versa. Alex is so much like me. Yeah, I can hear some of you say, "It serves you right." You are right you know. This is the way I love him though. God uses him to show me that we all have second chances.

Colin...well its a newborn love. It's an unbelievable joy and contentment that is so deep inside. God uses this little person to teach me that He isn't finished. Life is always new and fresh with God. Have you ever noticed that He seems to allow so many beginnings? Yet He seems to love us more at each and every one.

I just stand in awe. Can you even begin to imagine the individual love God has for each one of us? If I...a human...a mixed-up human who has flaws and makes all kinds of mistakes...can love my two sons so individually and with so much passion that it just overflows....

I'm in awe. I just can't believe it. A song keeps coming to my heart. One that I love to lead in worship services. It's called "Arms of Love" written by Craig Musseau. I want to leave you with his words. As you read them or sing them (if you know the song), picture yourself and that particular moment when you just kept fighting and fighting and all He did was wrap His huge and strong arms around you...making sure to never...ever...let you out of HIs grip.

I sing a simple song of love
To my Savior, to my Jesus
I'm grateful for the things you've done
My loving Savior, my precious Jesus
My heart is glad that You've called me Your own
There's no place I'd rather be

(Than) In Your arms of love
In Your arms of love
Holding me still
Holding me near in Your arms of love.

© 1991 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing

Here He Is...

2007-03-31T00:17:00.000-04:00

Here he is...so tiny...so small.
Here he is...a precious gift

Most know that my wife is about ready to have our second little boy, Colin. I can't tell you how scared I am to be a daddy again. Some wish for children all their lives and then struggle to have them. God has blessed us three times. Once was only for a few months, but this will be twice with the gift and honor of raising a child.

You know...they watch you all the time. They want to say what you say and do what you do. I admit...I am so far away from perfect...and sometimes too close to corrupt.

How many of you spend all your waking hours and minutes trying to figure out life? What formulas have you tried to devise so that all of life will go straight and smooth?

It's not by might, nor by power
But by My Spirit
it's not by might, nor by power
Saith the Lord.

...We think and plan and organize
And try with all our might
But when we finally reached the bottom
The end of all our rope
The Lord reminds once again
"In Me you'll find your hope."

Thanks Mom and Dad for all those Psalty tapes and books. I'm probably the only one in the world who remembers that song.

I am such a stubborn Christian. I fight God all the time. When I do this, where does it get me? You already know the answer. Nowhere. But I love the Lord...I long to have that intimate "connection". I've had it once...and it was so beautiful. No words could ever describe how at peace, how alive, how precious you feel when you know that every minute of every day is walking right next to Him.

I'm going to ask you a question. Do you know that relationship now? Have you ever wanted something like that, but didn't know what it would be like and so you ran away from it? To you, the Reader, Jesus loves YOU and He does want you to know that. Let me ask you this. Who in your life know Him? Who in your life has never given up on you? Who has been there all the time to gently tell you what I've just said? How long have you been running? Why? Who or what are running from?

Dear Jesus, right now I ask You to stand next to this reader. Let them know that you are there. Lord, maybe you show them by having that someone that I mentioned make a phone call or drop an email. Help them to know that You are the answer to the hole inside. Help them to know that all it takes is a simple admission that they need You. Father, help them know that they need to turn from the life they are living. Lord, show them that You don't give up. May this next week, month, and even year be a time where they are reminded that YOU LOVE THEM.

He'll do whatever
Whatever it takes
His grace reaches lower
Than your worst mistake
And His Love will run farther
Than you can runaway, my friend
He'll do whatever, whatever it takes
He'll do whatever it takes.

Big Brother doesn't fail at TNT

2007-03-06T20:48:00.000-05:00

What you are about to read will be looked on by BIG BROTHER TNT, that's the company I work for, TNT Fireworks®, tomorrow morning as they continnue to search out anybody that used the words TNT Fireworks®. Let's just say they are a little paranoid.

So here's the story:

About two weeks ago, February 22, 2007 to be exact, I decided to share a joy (something that doesn't come often working for Big Brother). At the very end of the post, I asked you to pray for Amy and I since being a part of the musical here in town would come at a busy time for the company I work for.

I published the post, went to work and was doing my job and those things job related, when I received a call from my boss. He proceeded to tell me that this morning he received a copy of an article I had wrote about in my blog. He had received a copy of the very post I just told you about. This was received from his boss. I'm not quite sure who actually takes the time to look for TNT FIREWORKS®. Oops, I bet they pick up on this one too.

He proceeded to question me being in the play here in BRF and wanted to make sure what my priorities were, etc. Then I noticed that he spent time not only on my blog (thanks to www.sitemeter.com), but he also went and looked at my family's blog and even clicked out at many others. Yep, I can see all that. I can even see what resolution you are using, what browser you are using (i.e. Firefox vs Internet Explorer) and the IP address and most of the time what provider you are using, such as road runner, sbc internet, centurytel, etc. It's a pretty cool tool!

Well, that was that. Now I felt like being exposed a bit since although a blog is meant to be read, I figured I only had a few people that would look, shake their head and move on. Not be harassed about my personal life, which really should be personal. The company really doesn't allow you to have a personal life. I find myself way too often having to check my email and answer phone calls while away on vacation and especially during weekends.

This company decided not to let it go. Someone probably thought it quite amusing to take a look at my blog today.. I periodically check to see who's been looking at my blog because I'm interested. There is someone out in Utah that reads this one and my family's and there is someone I know in China who reads this. Isn't that amazing!?!

Today I discovered that once again the corporate office had looked at my blog spending roughly about 10-15 minutes. It was not only looked upon once, but based on the sitemeter data looked on by at least 3 different people at 3 different computers. It seems maybe corp doesn't have much to do to be able to check and spend time reading.

So I decide to send an email to my boss, telling him that I knew it took place and just curious if he knew who had read it. He wasn't sure. It turned into this huge thing where someone thought I had accused the VP of Operation of looking. The funniest thing is that there is thought of "accusal". Please note the almost paranoia there. Why would I accuse someone of reading something that is posted on here? Weird, huh?

Anyway, I figured you the few who actually read this would find this pretty funny. I find it hilarious.

Enjoy and have a great rest of the week!

A Reward for the Heart from God

2007-02-22T07:26:00.000-05:00

I finally got a chance to audition for a show here in Black RIver Falls! I auditioned for "The Pirates of Penzance". I put down on the audition paper that I wanted the Major General.

It was fun attending the auditions. I got to meet new people, got a chance to share the talents God has given me. I just had a ball.

My family and I spent the extended weekend in Chicago. I got a call from the director on our voice mail back home and he told me they wanted to offer me a part, but then didn't tell me what and asked me to call him. By the time, I got the message and called he was gone and wouldn't be returning for a couple of hours. So I waited and waited (at the Cheesecake Factory), hoping that I would get a chance to know that evening. Nothing! UGH! I WANT TO KNOW NOW!!

I wake up the next morning in the hotel and am packing the car to return when my cell phone rings it is the director. He wants to offer me the part of.......FREDERIC! Can you believe it? Hey I see that smirk! :-D

I am happy to annouce that I have obtained the lead for the show "The Pirates of Penzance". I am so excited and can't wait for rehearsals to start. I want to thank God though because He knew right where I was and how much I needed this avenue to be creative. Now all I have to do is lose like 20-30 pounds and get more hair on my head. HA! Well, I will talk with you all later.

I know Amy and I will appreciate the prayers as this show will be during the busier time of my job. Thanks for all of them ahead of time!

A dream that ends the search...

2007-02-11T00:11:00.000-05:00

I had a dream last night. A dream that helped me learn something about what God thinks about me. A dream that helped me see what He sees in me. You may know that Amy and I had many an interview and many a church search committee that we have met for full time music positions. We always got so close then we would miss out for some reason or another. Sometimes we wouldn't even be told why. Well last night I had this dream and it was so phenomenal that I wanted to tell you.

I had just finished up leading worship at a church and singing for their service. I was in the lobby when someone came to me and told me to go to the gymnasium that the committee was waiting for me. I was to go alone.

When I entered the gym there was the committee, but also there were many more people. There was at least one person from every church to which I had ministered, even those from other search committees! I remember a brief anxiety, but then there was peace. Then one by one each of these people stood up and walked to a single spot light and they welcomed me to this church, they wanted me to have the job. Then they would thank me and say one good thing about me. I remember the tears started to flow and as each one stood up there the tears turned to heaving sobs of joy and relief. I HAD FINALLY FOUND A CHURCH! They all stayed up there and one joined with two and so on.

I woke up and the first thought I had was that I must have been to heaven or something because there was such a peace.

I described this dream to a friend today. She felt that God was trying to speak to me. I've thought about it all day long. Amy and I watched a movie and a friend sent me an email. A friend who I haven't talked to in a long while. Then it hit me.

I started this blog to find my heart. I truly feel that God was trying to tell me that I've had it all along and that it has never left. It's because He holds my heart. And I've been running sort of on my own looking all over for it when all I had to do was turn to Him.

I just got done praying and thanking Him. Amy and I our lives aren't too much different than any others we know, we all face challenges. It's funny how the Devil continues to lie and deceive us by telling us we are the only one facing those challenges. We are not alone. Do you know that when Amy was going through the toughest day this week that God used a teacher friend back "home" in Marion, Indiana who simply said that God had put Amy in her heart and she wanted to let Amy know that.

WOW! What a caring and loving Father!

God reminded me of this Psalm that has been on our filing cabinet here in the house since I moved here. He has placed it in front of me so that I may apply this to every aspect of my life, especially my work. May I be one who finds myself dwelling in His Sanctuary.

Psalm 15

Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?

He whose walk is blameless
And who does what is righteous,
Who speaks the truth from his heart

And has no slander on his tongue,
Who does his neighbor no wrong
And casts no slur on his fellowman,

Who despises a vile man
But honors those who fear the Lord
Who keeps his oath even when it hurts,

Who lends his money without usury
And does not accept a bribe against the innocent.

He who does these things will never be shaken.

Amen.

AN URGENT PRAYER REQUEST!

2007-01-19T12:57:00.000-05:00

Please pray for this family. Some of you will know them well. I just received this email from my boss.

Thank you.

A friend of mine needs your prayers. Josh Buck, who is a young man I coached in basketball in high school, and is now a youth pastor in Michigan, was severely injured in an accident while in Cancun last night. He dove off a boat, hit coral, was paralyzed, and nearly drowned. He flown from Cancun to Miami late last night, and put into a drug induced coma. He has been brought out of the coma, but is completely paralyzed, on a ventilator, and still has 55% of his lungs filled with salt water. I am sick over this. We have started praying over this, if you feel so moved, pray hard.
I could not believe this, but before they would move him in an ambulance they had to come up with $500 cash, and before they would fly him to Miami, his family had to come up with several, several thousands of dollars up front. So they need prayer for that issue also.
This is a great kid, his dad is still a prof at IWU, and I am crushed, but cannot imagine the depths his family is in. Josh also lost his youngest child, a toddler, last year in a tragic accident, so this family is taking it on the chin.
There is a website www.greenhouseministries.org, you can visit to get more info.

Random Thoughts....

2007-01-07T20:12:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm sitting here at the office on a Sunday night. I'm alone and listening to "The Message" on XM Online Radio.

I enjoy this time when I can come and get caught up and prepared for the next week.

Are you ready for this? I like my job. I get a charge every day from doing it. For the first time in my life, I feel like I'm accomplishing something. I'm being successful at what I do. I'm a General Manager for a good size company. We are the #1 distributor of fireworks in the nation. I'm a part of it! Everything I do to help this Branch Plant succeed is helping our company to succeed.

That's alot of "I" statements, but I know where my strength and wisdom come from....God...the Lord Jesus Christ. But it is so easy to get caught up in the "I'. I thank you Father for putting me here in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. I thank you for putting the right people in place so that I have a pretty solid team.

Thank you for allowing Amy and I to experience the gift of life again. I am humbled by the many blessings you continue to pour down to my little family. Thank you!

Another Random Thought....I love reading blogs! I'm not as addicted as my wife, but I enjoy following the stories of those I knew from college and have met so far in my life. I had a friend that wrote a letter to his Grandma who has now passed away. It brought tears to my eyes as it reminded me of my Great Grandma Lichty. What a woman of God! It is because of her and her prayers that have got me this far in life. I would love to write her a letter too, but I know she knew how I felt. Thanks Matt for that awesome letter!

Okay...I can't think of anything else right now. Please take the time to look around at my blog or head over to The Rayment Reader to see pics of my family.

Bye for now.