God's man

Family Albums

2005-12-22T21:21:00.000-06:00

At Christmas, everyone always lists "spending time with family" as one of the reasons that they love (hate?) Christmas. I just spent a little time snooping around my mother-in-law's photo albums. Did you know that my wife was as pretty when she as a little girl as she is now? It's true! Did you know that I see my own kiddos' expressions in their aunts/uncles/grandparents expressions from years ago?

I saw an interesting question posed on another blog a while back. It asked, if your "picture" was in God's "wallet." I'm gonna take that question one step further...

You see, we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." We were "knit together in the womb." When God looks through his own "Family Album," what part of Himself does he see in you? Does he see his compassion? His joy? His anger at injustice? His own "dreams and wishes"? What part of God do you reflect?

We ARE the children of the Living God of the Universe.

Sign on the dotted line....

2005-12-05T22:40:00.000-06:00

Are you talented? I don't think that I am. I marvel at people who can take watercolors and a canvas and create a masterpiece. I'm in awe at a mechanic who can take a busted engine and make it work again. I'm speechless when watching a sculptor carve a life size Elvis out of butter. You get my point. Did you know that you are God's masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10)? That word "workmanship" is the Greek word poema. Look familiar? Literally translated it means "masterpiece." We are God's artwork! But keep reading…

What are we, as God's masterpieces, to do on this Earth? We are to do God's work that has been laid out in advance for us! In other words, God's got a plan for his masterpiece. We were made to fit PERFECTLY into His plan by doing His work. This is no "volunteer" position…we're MADE to serve!

There is a difference between being a volunteer and being a servant in the Lord's church. Being volunteer means that you have the choice as whether or not you complete your task. You are not paid for your work, not much is really expected of you, and you have little accountability to others. Is that what it's like to be a member of the Church? Granted, we don't necessarily get "paid," but does God EXPECT something from us? Hint: the answer is not just sitting in a pew on Sunday morning! If you want to be a volunteer, join a social organization here in town. We are a body of servants! When we chose to put on Christ, we were told to set our hearts on things above (Colossians 3). We were told to run the race as to win it, not just participate when we feel like it. We were told to love one another and bear one another's burdens, not just say "Good morning" as we walk into the auditorium. When you became a member of the Lord's body, you became a part of a working organism, not just a "due paying" member of a social club. Been serving for a while? I don't read of a retirement age in Christianity.

I have to constantly remind myself of this. There are definitely times where I wish I could "sneak out" of doing something. God expects more from me, though. So, until he calls me home, I'm turning in my volunteer badge and signing up for the long haul.

Random thoughts

2005-11-28T21:41:00.000-06:00

I wonder...

Does God get as excited when he answers our prayers as we do when we watch our kids open presents at Christmas?

What type of preacher would want to preach in Corinth?

Did Peter's mother-in-law cook "as good as mom"?

Where was Joseph during Jesus' crucifiction?

Was David really redheaded, or was he just "rudy" in complexion?

When did Elisha start going bald?

You know the answers? Neither do I. What to know what's REALLY cool? It doesn't matter. What matters is that God DOES know all of the answers, and one "day," we'll get to sit for as long as we want and ask Jesus about it. Pretty cool, eh?

The old man

2005-11-21T21:29:00.000-06:00

I have to tell you that I'm proud of my dad.

Now, before you go and write to me about how sappy I've gotten over the last few posts, stay with me. Remember, even God bragged about his kiddos every now and then (just read the first chapter of Job, and you'll see what I mean).

My dad has been through it all when it comes to ministry. Youth Ministry, preaching, Education, Involvment, Family Life (wasn't that your original title at Mansfield, Dad?). He's taught, written, called, organized, wept, bled, fought, cried, stressed, and praised with the best of them.

This weekend, whether he wants to admit it or not, God used him, and used him mightily. He delivered, in my opinion, a knockout punch for a seminar. God used him to show Jesus to the leadership of a congregation. Not just the Jesus we read about on Sunday mornings, but the Jesus that we should model our lives after, our service after, and our entire being after.

I know that he's been thinking about his effectiveness as a "minister" lately. I have thought about my effectiveness as well. If this past Saturday's seminar is any indication, he's "still got it."

Good job, Dad. You were used.

Now if I can just get my brother to cough up those Dallas Cowboy tickets....

2005-11-20T23:18:00.000-06:00

Mmmmm....cereal.

2005-11-20T23:15:00.000-06:00

Reading before bedtime....

Just a bunch of kids...

2005-11-20T23:01:00.000-06:00

I wonder why Jesus said we should be like children. You remember the passage? He says that in order to inherit the kingdom, we must become more like children. Aren't kids the ones that ask questions relentlessly? Aren't they the ones that argue over the smallest toy? Aren't they the ones that won't do as they are asked? Aren't they the ones that will even lie to you in order to get out of trouble?

Wait a second.....

Maybe we are a lot like children. So exactly what did Jesus mean when he said that we supposed to be more like children?

Maybe he meant that we are to have the blind faith in our parents (Heavenly Father?) that children have. Think about it. When you strap your child into their car seat to go grocery shopping, do they worry about whether or not you will get them to the store in one piece? Do they ask you if you are sure that you REALLY need to go get groceries? Are they concerned that you are not necessarily taking the most "efficient" way there? Of course not.

Jesus tells us that we just need to trust him to drive the vehicle. All we have to do is enjoy the ride.

2005-11-03T11:34:00.000-06:00

Cheese!

2005-11-03T11:33:00.000-06:00

"Trick or Treat!"

2005-11-03T11:32:00.000-06:00

Owen

Distractions

2005-11-03T11:28:00.000-06:00

I just don't feel motivated this morning.

I don't know if it is because I haven't been getting as much sleep as usual (Tanya has been getting even LESS sleep because Owen has been sick), or if it's because I just need a break. Life has been going at a break-neck pace lately. Our minister is stepping down this weekend, the classes I've been co-teaching have been VERY helpful to families with preschoolers (at least to my family), the deacons have asked my father to come up in a few weeks to help jump-start a ministry system, and school work/internship have been increasingly demanding. Over all of this, my family has been a source of support and oasis.

Just another day in the life, eh?

Did you catch it?

I bet you didn't even know that you missed it.

I noticed something about the above paragraph. Something's missing.

Now did you catch it?

What about my relationship with God? I didn't notice that it wasn't mentioned until I actually typed the paragraph up. Wow.

I think that our busyness is Satan's way of distracting us from what is really important. Think about that. Satan will place something in your path that looks important, demands your attention, and may even consume your future thoughts and emotions.

God should be center stage in EVERYTHING. When Paul says in Philippians 3 that his "citizenship is in heaven," he says that he has RENOUNCED his affiliation with things in this world. That means his WHOLE being is given over to God's work (Ephesians 2:10).

So, do I have a lot of distractions in life? Sure. Everyone does. But do you just "bounce" from one distraction to another, or do you look to God as your "explanation" for everything?

Ok....enough ramblings. I'm gonna go to class and watch a video. Hopefully, this post wasn't TOO distracting for you.

If It Were Your Last

2005-09-27T21:38:00.000-05:00

Tanya has been reading a series of books by Karen Kingsbury and Gary Smalley. I wanted to share a poem written by one of the characters in the book Rejoice. In it, a mother is reflecting on her days with her son, who will be married the next day...

Long ago you came to me, a miracle of firsts
First smiles and teeth and baby steps, a sunbeam on the burst.
But one day you will move away and leave to me your past,
And I will be left thinking of a lifetime of lasts.

The last time that I held a bottle to your baby lips...
Last time that I lifted you and held you on my hip...
Last time when you had a binky stuck inside your mouth...
The last time that you crawled across the floor of this old house.

Last time when you ran to me, still small enough to hold,
Last time when you said you'd marry me when you grew old.
Precious, simple moments and bright flashes from the past,
Would I have held you longer if I'd known they were the last?

Your last few hours of kindergarten, last days of first grade...
Last at bat in Little League, last colored paper made.
Last time that I tucked you in for one last midday nap...
Last time when you wore your beat up Green Bay Packers cap.

Last time that you caught a frog in that old backyard pond...
Last time when you ran barefoot across our fresh-cut lawn.
Silly scattered images to represent your past.
Would I have taken pictures...If I'd known they were the last?

The last dark night you slipped in bed and slept between us two,
When last I read to you of God or Horton Hears a Who!
Last time that I smelled your hair and prayed after your shower...
Last time that we held devotions in the evening hours.

The last time you were Michael Jordan in our games of give-and-go...
Last time that you made an angel in the melting snow.
I never even said good-bye to yesterdays long passed.
Would I have marked the moments...If I'd known they were the last?

Last piano lesson, and last soccer goal you kicked...
The last few weeks of middle school, last flowers that you picked.
Last time that you needed me for rides from here to there...
The last time that you spent the night with that old tattered bear.

Last time that I helped you with a math or spelling test,
Last time when I shouted that your room was still a mess.
Time and life moved quicker, taking pieces of your past.
Would I have stretched the moments...If I'd known they were the last?

The last time you needed help with details of a dance...
Last time you asked me for advice about a romance.
Last time you talked to me about your hopes and dreams.
Last time you wore a jersey for your high school team.

I watched you grow and never noticed seasons as they passed.
I wish I could've frozen time, to hold on to your lasts.
For come tomorrow morning life will never be the same.
You'll pledge forever to your girl, and she'll take your name.

And I will watch you, knowing God has blessed you with this day.
I never would have wanted to somehow make you stay.
They say a son's a son until he takes for him a wife.
You're grown-up now; it's time to go and start your brand new life.

One last hug, one last good-bye, one quick and hurried kiss...
One last time to understand just how much you'll be missed.
I'll watch you leave and think how quickly childhood sped past.
Would I have held on longer...If I'd known it was your last?

Of Salami, fat, and sacrifice

2005-09-17T13:59:00.000-05:00

Tanya just grossed me out.

She asked me to come over to the stove and take a look at the salami she was boiling. Yes, boiling. She was cooking the fat off of the meat in order to make a homemade pizza for supper tonight. I NEVER saw so much disgusting, artery clogging material in my life. I'll still eat the salami without boiling the fat off of it (I'm a lazy bum), but I'll add that food to the list of things that are slowly killing me.

Every since I got married, I've started to gain weight (see previous post: Denial). I finally have resolved myself that no matter what I eat (healthy or not), no matter if I'm going to exercise regularly (I have three toddlers, does that count?), and no matter how much fat I drain off of my favorite flavor of pizza, I'm bound to die anyways! Don't get me wrong, I'm not going to "let myself go" by any means. I am, however, going to concern myself with a few more important things other than my waistline.

On the other hand...

It seems to me that in the Old Testament a young man named Daniel and his three compadres challenged a king's court to a version of "The Biggest Loser", and they were BLESSED for being healthy. Paul also tells us that our body is a temple for use BY God to do work for Him. I'm also supposed to be an example to others in how I live my life. Hmmmm.....

It looks like the "fat free" life may not be so bad AS LONG AS I've sacrificed this body for His work. I shouldn't be trying to be a vegetarian simply to try and outlive (outlast and outsmart?) my neighbors. My life is a mist (see James). I'm called to reach out to EVERYONE (see I Corinthians 9:22). Why not have a "smooth running machine" available for God to work with?

Pass the veggies....but leave the tofu on the buffet....

Don't grow weary....

More than one can bear...

2005-08-31T22:15:00.000-05:00

I heard something today concerning the hurricane (seems like that's the popular topic around the water cooler these days). I heard someone say "God will not allow us to go through something that is more than we can bear.

Is that really what that scripture says?

(Sounds of ruffling pages)

I Corinthians 10:13....

Here it is.

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be TEMPTED 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."

It doesn't say that God won't allow us to go through something that is "more than we can bear." It simply means that Satan (not God) uses these events to try and break us away from God. When you take a look at the book of Job, do you think that Job was about to "break"? I think so. How would you react? Your family is gone, your money is completely gone, and your closest friends can't understand completely know what you're going through. Sound familiar?

God can control what is going on...including hurricanes. But back up in the book of Job. Read the beginning. Who was it that was causing all of the "natural disasters" and "unnatural events"? That's right! Satan. This hurricane is nothing more (I don't mean to sound dismissive, I can't imagine losing everything) than one of Satan's tools to try and pry us away from God.

Where's your temptation in all of this? What have you been tempted to do? Turn a blind eye? Be of the mind: "Well I can't do anything anyways." There's a Greek word for that....bologna.

So, how should the church react? Read Acts 2:42 and following. They shared EVERYTHING with each other AS THEY HAD NEED. Is there a need in LA? You bet. Pardon the phrase, but it's time for us to ante up and kick in. God EXPECTS us to react with a servant's heart. That's what the church is here on Earth to do.

Get behind me Satan. Time for some work.

"Don't grow weary..."

Denial

2005-08-12T14:16:00.000-05:00

My belt must have shrunk.

It has to have shrunk. I put it on this morning to go to work and I noticed that, even though I used the same "settings" as I always have, my belt seemed to fit rather...tightly.

I also noticed that my mirror is defective. It only shows me with less and less hair. I KNOW that I have beautiful hair on my head. I have PROOF! Look at my wedding photos.

Also, for some reason, tea growers around the world have a grudge against me. They just recently started putting Calcium Oxciliate in tea leaves of all types in order to give me kidney stones. I'm TEXAN for crying out loud! I have iced tea for breakfast!

Silly? Yeah, I know, no one is really secretly placing Calcium Oxciliate in my tea (although I'm watching you OU fans closely!). I also know that I don't have as full a head of hair as I used to (actually, I kinda like it). But that belt.....

This is the same type of attitude people have when they deny that God has any role in their lives. Atheists will look at the Big Bang Theory and say that THAT is the way the universe came into being (you have a better chance of getting struck by lightning THREE times in the same place). Agnostics will say that they really can't tell why all of the "coincidences" occur the world. They'll say it revolves around a "Chaos Theory"(this theory states that there is a pattern to random events, but that no one can map out that pattern).

Look around you. God is at work. It may be VERY hard to see that fact sometimes. Satan does his best to make us feel guilty, ashamed, or even angry at God in order to confuse us. Line up the pieces. Put your faith in places where doubt would rule. Become a steward of the things God has given you, instead of an "owner." God IS in control. Stop living in denial.

"Don't grow weary...."

A Name on the Door

2005-08-10T21:20:00.000-05:00

I have to brag....

I walked into my internship offices today to attend a diadactic training session. I was greeted by the Director for Clinical Training. He looked at me and asked "What hours are you in today? We need your office for an intake."

Wait a second...

MY office? I have an office?

I walked up the stairs to "my" office to find that it was a room that contained two desks, and several different filing cabinets filled with materials used for psychological testing. On the door I noticed something that made me feel somewhat uneasy. I saw my name. It had already been placed in a holder and stated that I was a "Psychology Intern."

Cool.

Up until that moment, I had felt a little in limbo about how my career and schooling was going. I knew that I was traveling in the right direction, but I just hadn't had any "confirmation" as such, from God in a while. What a difference ownership makes. I now feel that I am a part of a larger team. A team that is dedicated to bettering the lives of children and their families in our area.

When you are with the family of God, do you have "your name on the door"? Not so much as that you "own" anything about the church, but more that you are a vital part of the team. Are you a contributing member? Has God used you in the last few days? few weeks? years?

Take a look at Ephesians 4:11 and following. God gives each of us gifts/talents/abilities to use for him. Are you a contributing member of the team?

For more info on the agency I work with, go to http://www.fsgctopeka.com/

Don't grow weary...

2005-08-03T09:44:00.000-05:00

Risa chillin' at Teddy Roosevelt National Park

2005-08-03T09:42:00.000-05:00

Elias and Lane getting ready.

Curly, the City Slicker, and Bison

2005-08-03T09:37:00.001-05:00

In order to escape the madness of preparing for my brother-in-laws wedding, my father in law wisely put me to work out on the farm.

Yes....me. The Dallas boy. The one who before marrying my beautiful wife had never driven a tractor.

While out cutting hay, I had a chance to reflect a little on what Curly (in City Slickers) said. "You've got to find that one thing" that's important to you in life.

So, for me, what was it? My family? Yeah that's important. My new career. I guess that's important too. Neither one of those, though, is what holds it all together. What my "one thing" is, then, is my relationship with God the Father.

Although I haven't been "in touch" with Him as much as I need to be, He still is the one that needs to be in control of my life. I can look back over the last few months (especially since Owen came along) and see His hand guiding, correcting, and comforting me.

So...what's your "one thing"?

Don't grow weary....

2005-08-03T09:37:00.000-05:00

Don't freak out grandma

2005-08-03T09:34:00.000-05:00

That's one big piece of meat...

2005-07-10T22:23:00.000-05:00

What are you looking at?

2005-07-10T22:21:00.000-05:00

New bike for Risa

2005-07-10T22:19:00.000-05:00

Are we there yet?

2005-07-10T22:18:00.000-05:00

Mommy, that's a cool cake!

Birthdays, Canada, and Sunsets

2005-07-10T22:05:00.000-05:00

I've got to tell you, I'm not sure if I like birthdays...

Well, I like MY birthday, and I like my wife's birthday, but I'm not sure if I like my kids' birthdays. Every time one comes around, I feel like I'm getting older, and missing out on more and more of their lives. I'm sure every parent feels this way at some point in time, but my "little"girl just turned 2 (pictures above). Pretty soon, I'm going to be walking her down some isle to get married to some hairy legged boy that doesn't deserve her. Next, I'm going to be holding my son's boys on my lap. After that, they'll be reminiscing over my life with my wife of 50 years. Get the picture? WE DON'T HAVE A LOT OF TIME. Especially with our kids.

We have ONE shot with them. One chance to pass along the faith that God has entrusted to us. One opportunity to use the gifts with them that God blessed us with. Feel the pressure yet? That's ok...God knows this pressure. He tells us how to take advantage of this opportunity though. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 tells us to "talk to our kids while we're walking, sleeping, eating, etc...." (Evan's version).

So, even in Canada, I'm gonna take my kids out (barring any mosquito attacks) to see as many sunsets as I can...maybe they'll see God there...

I know that I do.

"Don't grow weary in well doing..."

2005-06-28T22:00:00.000-05:00

Yeah, Owen...Uncle Nathan can bore daddy too....

2005-06-28T21:57:00.000-05:00

the boys...

No one's exempt

2005-06-28T21:39:00.000-05:00

Here's one for my dad, who harassed me about updating this blog....

I read this afternoon about a "giant" in the church who has had some personal struggles. Even though heinous (I had to run spell check because of that word) in our eyes, his sins are no different than our own. I wonder how this brother (and I chose that word for a reason) will be received within the church? According to what I have read, he has repented, and asked forgiveness.

Now, this does NOT mean that there are no consequences for his actions. In fact, his marriage is over, he has lost his job, and there is a possibility that he may be punished legally. He HAS to live with these choices (again, a word that was used deliberately). But, I have to wonder...what if his heart HAS been touched? What if...consider this for a moment...he truly is repentant. What if...I know it may be a stretch...that he really DOES want to make things right? How does God see him? Wanna hint? Look at Luke 15.....

Before you write to me and post my name all over the internet as a heretic, I'm just postulating. I am in NO WAY wanting to "sit in God's chair" on this issue. I only know that there are a LOT of people who struggle with many "horrible" things in this world, but God does NOT (according to what I read) distinguish between these sins.

Maybe we need to reread the "plank in the eye" passage a few more times...

Don't grow weary...

Update...

2005-06-22T14:58:00.000-05:00

A lot has happened since I last wrote. I'll try to catch you up and sprinkle in a few of my thoughts/reactions/snide remarks....

We came home from Dallas last week. Our first full day at home (just the 5 of us) was something to behold. Stress city! Tanya and I were trying to figure out where exactly each of us fit in the new routine, and the kids were suffering from Grandparent withdrawal. We've gotten into something of a routine, now, but still are exhausted from catching up on work (Tanya) and retakes on Tuesday (me). I'm still waiting to find out the results of my retakes, so please keep that matter in your prayers.

On this past Sunday morning, the Central church of Christ recommitted itself to Accepting Jesus, Building Relationships, and commitments to Serve (I remembered it all by myself!). The leadership took a giant step of faith in calling for the recommitment of every single member, and I believe the body will respond. I do know that the shepherds and ministers have a lot to deal with right now, so keep them in your prayers. Guys, stay focused on Jesus! HE'S the reason you're doing what you're doing!

Tanya just took Owen to get his immunization. It's hard to believe that he's two months old today. I absolutely LOVE his reactions to each family member. He gave me the cheesiest grin this morning (at about 3:30 AM)....I wonder if God gets as much of a kick seeing our reactions to His moving in our lives?

Gonna run. Good luck to everyone down in OKC for Zenith. Be safe. Central, I look forward to many more opportunities to use my "ABC's" Daily!

Packing up...

2005-06-14T14:09:00.000-05:00

Imagine the conversation that took place between Abram and Sarai in Genesis chapter 12....

"Ok, dear, I've got everything packed up. Lot came by today to let me know that his camels are fully loaded with the cooking equipment we gave him last summer. Did you let the neighbors know that we're headed out for a while?"

"Yes dear. But there's something I need to let you in on. I'm not really sure where we're headed. God spoke with me a few weeks ago like I told you, but all he said was "Leave your house, your country, and your people, and go to the land I will show you."

"Ok, let me get this straight. You DIDN'T get directions to where we're going? How long are we going to be there? I've packed for the long haul, but I need to know when we're coming back. I've got cactus to water, you know."

Ok, so maybe I embellished it a little. Right now, we're packing our bags to come back north for a while, only to pack up early next month for a trip up to Canada for VBS and a family reunion. I promise you, the Army Corps of Engineers would envy the system my Tanya has going here....

We've got the kids clothes, we've got the food, we've got the baby's BATHTUB for crying out loud. We are PREPARED for just about anything. Notice I didn't say EVERYTHING (Elias got car sick on the way down, we weren't quite ready for that one).

How prepared are you for Jesus' "next trip"? Peter says in I Peter that we're strangers in this land (one version says pilgrims). Paul says in Philippians that our citizenship is in heaven. He says later in Colossians to "set your heart on things above."

So, what (or who) is on your "packing list"? Have you gotten ready for the "trip for all eternity"?

Don't grow weary...

Live like it!

2005-06-12T22:33:00.000-05:00

I had the privilege of sitting in on one of my father's Bible classes today. I don't often get to sit in on one of his classes, but they're always a treat (maybe I'm biased, but I think others would agree with me). For this post, I'm borrowing from his lesson material...Tell me if I'm right.

The Highland church of Christ in Fort Worth just began a study in I Peter. GREAT book, if you haven't read it yet. It'll take about 15 minutes to read the entire thing. Look at verse 3 of chapter 1. What does Peter call those to whom he is writing? He calls them the ELECT and STRANGERS. Kinda interesting combination, eh?

The first word, ELECT, carries with it a concept with which we are all familiar...being chosen. Think back to your days in school where you "picked teams." Ever been picked last? Not a good feeling. Now, imagine God himself picking you FIRST for his team. You were chosen for two reasons (keep reading in chapter 1, for the answers). 1) to obey Jesus 2) to praise God the Father. Cool....Second, the word STRANGERS there implies that we are FOREIGN to those that surround us. I Peter 2:9 (KJV) says that we are a PECULIAR people (I just like that word). In other words, PEOPLE WILL NOT UNDERSTAND US OR WHAT WE'RE ABOUT.

Carl Wheeler in one of his last posts spoke of a form of persecution that he has been dealing with. If we claim to be Christians, this is a concept that we should be familiar with. People putting pressure on us because of our beliefs. Peter says that if we are God's ELECTED STRANGERS, we should LIVE LIKE IT (1:17). EXPECT this type of stuff to happen, but make sure you read the rest of Peter's intro (verses 4-12). God's picked us first, and is SAVING HIS INHERITANCE for us in Heaven.

Well, I'd better turn in. I didn't do the passage justice, so make sure you read it for yourself.

"Don't grow weary in well doing...."

Keep Reading...

2005-06-08T09:22:00.000-05:00

If I would actually KEEP READING the passages I read when I post to this site, I might actually be a little less depressing....

In the book of Job, our fearless hero is known for his "patience." There's a Greek word for that...B-O-L-O-G-N-A. Job was no more patient than any of us...Take a look: Later in the book (after his "friends" and wife have all deserted him) Job starts asking God "Why?" Kinda how I was feeling yesterday. Know what God's response was? Basically, this: When you start putting stars in the sky, then you can know the answer. When you set the seas in motion, then you will truly understand. When you see the mountian goat on the side of a hill and watch his every move, then you will appreciate it all....

Huh?

Bottom line: God is saying TRUST ME! I created this whole thing, you know with all of it's laws and parameters, I KNOW what I'm doing.

In I Kings, after Elijah complained to God about "being all by myself," God "showed" him where to look for him (in the gentle whisper!). He also told Elijah to go and look for a guy by the name of Elisha. Elisha became Elijah's successor, beneficent, and confidant.

Bottom line: God provides support when you need it.

God's done that with me today. My brothers and sisters in Christ have been my "Elishas." My family here has been my support. My wife has been my "Trust God" voice of reason.

The next time you start to think "Hey, that's me!" when you are reading a passage: KEEP READING! God will show you not only a picture of you in His Word, He'll show you what you need to focus on....

Don't grow weary....

Elijah, Job, and Owen

2005-06-07T15:02:00.000-05:00

I wonder how Job felt after he got all of his "messages" concerning the disasters he had suffered. Have you ever considered the TIMING of these messages? They all occurred one right after the other (Job 1). In a matter of about 5 minutes, one of the wealthiest men in the land was reduced to a pauper. Talk about a bad morning.

I wonder just how Elijah felt after complaining to God after Mount Carmel (I Kings 17). If you notice, God had just used Elijah to teach a lesson to all of Israel by embarrassing, then slaughtering, 700 prophets of Baal. After a GREAT victory, Elijah is chased into the desert by Jezabel, the Queen of Israel. There, Elijah complains to God that "he's the only one left." No one else, according to him, really cared about God anymore.

I've been feeling a little that way lately. Not so much about "no one caring about God," but more along the lines of "no one else seems to go through this stuff." You see, we had to take Owen back to the hospital today. Now, I'm no Job, but I definitely feel like I've been singled out by Satan lately. I've had doubts concerning my decisions about my career, struggles with my the health of some of my family members, and concerns that I'm not "making an impact." This post is not so much for your encouragement as it is for mine. Sometimes I simply have to type things out, reread familiar (and favorite!) passages to bolster my faith, and "talk" to my family of God out there in cyberspace. Today, I ask for your prayers on all of the aforementioned accounts. Today, I ask selfishly for your prayers about my family. Today, I ask for God's intervention on my behalf.

Thanks for your time and consideration in reading this. My prayer for you today is that God bless you and make His will for you EVIDENT. I ask for protection for your family and loved ones, and I ask for a sense of WORTH for the efforts that you put forward in His kingdom. Until next time...Don't grow weary (are you listening to yourself, Evan?)....

Growing up

2005-06-02T20:14:00.000-05:00

I heard something in Sunday's sermon that's really made me think....

When Jesus asked the paralytic at the Pool of Bethsadia, "Do you want to be well," I always thought that he was being a little "sarcastic" (sarcastic for Jesus, that is...). Reagon Wilson made me think, though.

What if the man DIDN'T want to be well? What if he was HAPPY being handicapped? What if he made his LIVING on other's pity?

How are we any different? Do we rely too much on our own "handicaps" in order to get us out of our responsiblities? Now, I'm not saying we're all a bunch of slackers, but I do wonder if we don't have our excuses...

"I have too much homework tonight...."
"I just don't seem to get along with those people..."
"They never ask me to help, so they must not need me, so why bother..."
"I'm sure someone else will be helping with ___________..."

What's holding you back? Carl Wheeler's blog is titled "Seeking the Heart of a Servant" (see sidebar for a link to his site. It seems he is CONSTANTLY going out of his way to help others with their needs (or at least volunteering to help!) I appreciate that heart. THAT'S our call as Christians. Be responsible to God....AND to each other. Be like Jesus this week....make an EFFORT to reach out and touch someone for the better!

Set up to the plate!

Don't grow weary in well doing....

Tests, sleeping, and statistics

2005-05-23T15:10:00.000-05:00

Did you know that 75% of all statistics are made up on the spot? How about the one where people give "110%" of their effort to something. How can you give more than the whole amount? What about the one where people complain that "they never have enough time." Don't we all have 24 hours in a single day (give or take a few seconds)? Right now, I'm only running on about 4 hours of sleep, so bear with me and this post...

If you ask my father in law about testing (he's a retired school principal and teacher), he'd say it's a necassary evil. On one hand, you don't like to berate people for their weaknesses and shortcomings (mine right now has to do with Intermediate Statistics!), but you have to have some way of measuring what the student has learned. One risk you take with testing, though, is the concept of "CATEGORIA."

This greek term should at least LOOK familiar. Does it? What about the word "CATEGORY"? We get in a bad habit of putting people in categories based solely on their looks/economic status/race/language or other items. Is this right? Aren't we all really similar?

I saw a GREAT bumpersticker the other day: "I want to be unique just like everyone else." Read that again. We all strive to make ourselves different, but yet we all have one thing in common: We are COMPLETELY lost without Christ. How would you fare on a "Christ Test." How similar are you to Jesus? Where do you "rank" in comparison to Him? Not good enough, but trying hard? See the last post. Not really caring? Email me and we'll talk.

Better run. I need to "find some time" to sleep before my tests on Friday.

"Don't grow weary...."

Get it? Got it? Good...

2005-05-20T20:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. I've been moving out of my office, getting used to calling myself a "student" (I actually prefer "scholar," but I don't want to sound TOO full of myself), and driving my wife crazy by being in the house for too long of a time.

I think, though, I'm going to try sticking with a theme that David Carriger started on his blog a few days ago.

I had coffee with a brother and friend today. We got to talking about things in the church, how we're still striving to "restore" the first church, how we've got a long way to get back to "mere Christianity," and that there are still a lot of hurting people IN the church, much less in the "real world." But...One thing that stuck out in my mind...God's grace.

Even though we may not be moving as quickly in one direction (or moving too quickly down the WRONG direction, depending on your viewpoint), we need to remember: God's grace is SUFFICIENT. What exactly does that mean? That means this: WE WILL NOT GET TO WHERE WE ARE STRIVING TO GO.

Huh?

We're NEVER going to be satisfied with OUR end of the relationship with God/worship/service/attitude. See, that's what's so cool, though. God already knows that we're gonna fall on our face, even though we're giving it our all! Best part: HE STILL WANTS US! No matter how frustrated we may become with our own shortcomings, whether it be with ourselves or those shortcomings we may see within the church, GOD STILL LOVES US, and beckons us to accept his grace to cover the "whole enchilada."

Cool...

So, no matter how miserable we may (or may not be) in worship, our own Christian walk, or the walk with others...God's got us all covered.

"Don't grow weary in well-doing."

Coming Home

2005-05-14T18:29:00.000-05:00

I wonder if God vacuums....

You know how it goes....Whenever you are expecting company (or someone to come home! Owen got to come home today!), you start cleaning up. My wife, mother-in-law, and I went clean-crazy this morning when we found out that Owen was going to come home to stay. We vacuumed, cleaned the carpet (yes, those are two different things!), and even got his clothes drawer squared away.

I wonder if God does the same thing....Read Luke 15, especially the part of the "Lost Son." Notice that God (that's the dad in that story, by the way) tells his servants to "kill the fatted calf" and get ready to have a party. In other words, there was a specific calf being fattened FOR THAT VERY DAY. Jesus also tells us that he is "going to prepare a place for us" and in his "father's house are many rooms."

In other words, God is waiting for us to come home...To stay. He has a place prepared for YOU. JUST FOR YOU. Pretty cool, eh?

Don't grow weary in well doing....

2005-05-11T11:28:00.000-05:00

Older brother and sister meet the new guy

In transition

2005-05-11T11:09:00.000-05:00

I always hated hearing football commentators referring to the Dallas Cowboys as being "in transition" after winning their last Super Bowl (which was under BARRY SWITZER, for crying out loud...I'm not bitter, really). I always thought that phrase "in transition" was a cop-out, an excuse for poor performance. After cleaning out my office (partially) yesterday, along with the entire "retiring from Youth Ministry" thing, I'm rethinking my attitude.

After Paul encountered Christ on his way to Damascus, and his subsequent baptism and conversion, he had a "transition time." Paul spent time in Arabia (Galatians 1:17) and it was THREE YEARS before he "got acquainted with Peter." (Galatians 1:18). FOURTEEN YEARS later, he went out to preach with Barnabas to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:1-3). Man, talk about a transition time....

Maybe I'm too impatient. Maybe I need to get back on God's time schedule for me, instead of my own. I have on my desk (until it too is packed away) a sailboat with the poem "Road of Ministry" engraved on its sail. At one point it reads...."His hand will guide and protect you from harm, as long as you stay close to His side. If you should get ahead of Him, He will humble you. If you should falter, He will encourage you. His grace will be sufficient for you to carry out the ministry He has anointed you to walk in."

I pray for you today to be on "God time." If you're in transition...Anticipate great things ahead. If you have faltered, I pray for your encouragement.

"Don't grow weary in well doing...."

Links and such...

2005-05-09T15:21:00.000-05:00

I've posted a few new links to your right. These are just a few of the resources I've used over the last 3 or so years in my personal ministry. I'll be posting more as I have time. If you run across a link that would be good resource for churches/families, please feel free to leave a comment or two...

2005-05-09T09:12:00.000-05:00

Gratuitous pic of Owen

Starting from square one

2005-05-09T09:03:00.000-05:00

Have you ever forgotten how to eat? What about how to breathe? Swallow? This weekend was momentous in that Own was able to take an entire bottle (50 mL) from mommy. That's a big step for a little guy! Since he was born premature, he has had to learn how to suck, swallow, and breathe (in that order) in order to eat from a bottle. Most babies develop this ability in the womb, Owen had to learn on his own. I know, I know..."What's the point, Evan?"

Well, here it is: Those of us who have grown up in the church, been faithful "all of our lives" sometimes have to REALLY get back to the beginning in order to fully appreciate what God has done for us. Think about it this way: Did your dad ever tell you that "you'll appreciate it more if you earn it"? Well, we can't EARN God's grace, but those of us that realize where we would be without it certainly appreciate it all the more!

"Don't grow weary in well doing..."

Moving on...

2005-05-06T09:48:00.000-05:00

People are strange animals. We're creatures of habit, and dislike change, but at the same time become easily bored with our "current situation." We need each other's company, but we can't stand to be in the same room with some people. We want to be loved, but yet we are very selfish with those that we "hand out" our love.

Jesus tells us to do more....

"If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you..." (Matthew 5:41-2)

I had an interesting conversation with one of the nurses in the NICU this morning. She seemed as though she wasn't interested in "conversing" with me, she just wanted to "do her job." Or so it seemed to me....

What struggles has this woman gone through that she comes across (to me, possibly others) this way? How should I, as a Christian, approach someone who doesn't quite "fit" my personality style? What are the things that I "bring with me" into relationships to make me "undesirable" to be around?

I think this is why Jesus simply states: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 7:12)

Tough stuff. That means I have to be kind to people I don't think are treating me "just right." Who knows, maybe the impression that we leave may be used by God one day to touch that persons heart....

2005-05-05T21:49:00.000-05:00

Owen

Reunions

2005-05-05T21:38:00.000-05:00

I just got back from the hospital where my two oldest kiddos got to "meet" their new brother. Elias and Risa really didn't get to "touch" or "sit next to" Owen today because they're both a little too young to fully understand what is going on. We brought them both to a glass door and had them stand looking into the NICU where Owen was. We were able to "disconnect" Owen from his monitors and bring him over to the kiddos. Their reactions were priceless.

Elias: "He likes me Daddy!"
Risa: "Tickle, tickle, tickle.....Happy?"
Daddy: "Yes he's very happy to see you two!"

Sometimes I wonder what the conversation is like in heaven before we get to "meet" our brothers and sisters (and cousins, grandparents, friends) in Christ. I think the conversation will probably be similar to that of my 3 year old, 1 year old, and 10 day old.

Elias: "When can he come home, Daddy?"
Risa: "Happy? Owen!"
Daddy: "He'll be with us soon."

"Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses...."

Press on to the prize, your cheering section is pulling for you!

2005-05-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

"just because I can..."

...and I will give you rest

2005-05-04T14:45:00.000-05:00

Too many times in my life I feel like I am just jumping from one frying pan into another.

"It doesn't matter that you are jumping from one crisis to another. What matters is that you just keep jumping!"
- Father Mulcahee MASH 4077

Ever feel like that? It gets to be a draining existence if you think about it. No respite. No oasis. No pause in the rush. Then what? Do you just curl up and pray hard to survive? Do you frantically try to get "one leg up" on your fellow combatants?

Get up. Think. Struggle. Hurry. Rush. "Do what?" Now. Past due. Tired. Help others. Smile. Chores. Rush. Other's needs. Rush. Accomplish. Goals. Set backs. Disappointments. Rush. Fix. Emergency. Rush.......

STOP!

"Be STILL and know that I AM GOD." (Which means, Evan, that YOU'RE NOT!).

"God, help me to look for you in the onrush of today's events, tomorrow's dreams, and yesterday's disappointments. Watch over my family, especially the children that they may become your servants. Keep those that are dear to me safe, and give me a clear path in spite of Satan's arrows. Help me today to share your light with just ONE person, so that it may spread to many. Amen."

Where's Jesus?

2005-04-27T12:33:00.000-05:00

We got to hold little Owen last night. It was the first time since his delievery that we (my wife and I) got to hold him. What an experience. As I held that little boy in my arms, and as I watched his mother swaddle him and hold him close, I could not keep Psalms 139 out of my head...

"...you knit me together in my mother's womb....My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place....All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be" (vs. 13,15, and 16)

When others who are going through similar struggles (or others that are not so similar) ask "WHY?" I'm learning to ask, "WHERE?" Where is Jesus in the situations you are dealing with? You see, Jesus is there...you just may have to sift through the "garbage" that life/Satan/situations throw at you. HE can calm the storm. HE can give peace. HE can provide growth.

"don't grow weary in well-doing...."

2005-04-26T12:32:00.000-05:00

Hello world!

New Addition

2005-04-26T09:39:00.000-05:00

Sorry that I haven't written in a while. It's been busy at my place. Last Thursday, my wife and I had an appointment to check up on the pregnancy. We "technically" were due on May 19, but our doctor informed us of a few complications. We were told that we had to induce on Friday morning. So, after a sleepless night, and more than a few coffees (for dad) Owen Everett Burdan was born.

Right now, he's on oxygen in NICU, but is recovering well. He's been "grabby" with his leads and tubes, and throws a good fit whenever things aren't going his way (he gets that from his dad!).

Think about this one: If we hadn't gone to the doctor when we did (we accidentally missed the week before and had to reschedule), we MIGHT not have Owen with us today. God never ceases to amaze me with HIS timing and HIS schedule of things. Keep praying for little guy, and I'll keep you informed as much as possible.

"Dont grow weary in well-doing...."

Going to War!

2005-04-20T21:28:00.000-05:00

Tonight I leave the shepherds meeting at the Central church more encouraged than I EVER have before. I saw God working tonight. For the past 3-4 years, I have felt that the church has been REACTING to the world instead of PROACTIVLY affecting it. Tonight, the realization came to light for the shepherds. I praise God for allowing me to be a part of that realization process. These 6 men are the most "seeking" group of men I have ever met. My prayer for them is for strength to fight the battle, and "paddle the canoe."

Used

2005-04-20T13:35:00.000-05:00

It's becoming more and more apparent what my role is to be for the Central church in the next few years. Through my studies, I've learned that I can connect with people on an emotional, psychological, and spiritual level. Through my shepherds, I have learned that I have tools at my disposal that I have taken for granted. It's amazing when God takes all of these things into account (personal skills, relationships, dreams, successes, failures, etc) and produces WHAT HE DESIRES to be the outcome. It's as if, all along, we are following a predermined path THAT WE CHOSE TO TRAVEL. Sounds like an oxymoron, but I believe that's the way God works.

Weird, but cool.

Affirmation

2005-04-19T10:18:00.000-05:00

It's amazing to me how God can take a simple event and reaffirm His will for your life. I went to visit with the family of one of our members today at the hospital. This particular member was having a very invasive procedure done today, and his family was understandably concerned. However, their conversation quickly turned from one of anticipation/concern to one of interest and appreciation for me and my family's decision to step down from youth ministry. They were EXTREMELY supportive and loving towards me and my family. They stated that they would "miss us just being around the building."

Amazing. This family had more important things to be concerned with, yet they chose to reaffirm my family's contribution to the church. God help me to be more like that!

Starting Out

2005-04-18T14:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks for checking in on me. I appreciate your time, and hopefully some of the things I'll post here will be thought provoking, insightful, or just downright silly.

Today was an interesting day. We're expecting our third child sometime next month, and my wife is absolutely exhausted. Both of the kids woke up shortly before 6 AM, and decided that it would be a good idea to tease one another while in bed. So...Dad was on duty. Elias wanted "marshmallow cereal" and whatever big brother wants, Risa wants too. Man, I wish I had that kind of energy. Eating cereal would never be boring again.

I'm learning more and more in my classes. I'm working on a Masters in Clinical Psychology, and have been thrilled with the courses I've taken this year. It's been a challenge over the last few years trying to figure out what God's plan was for me (my family). Over the last three months, that direction has become more and more evident. I'm meant to help others, but not through full time ministry. I'm still not sure as to what EXACTLY I'll be doing when I graduate, but I do know that God's "driving." The Central church of Christ (where I've been a Youth Minister for 6 years) has been so loving and supportive throughout this process. I pray that God give them clear and concise direction and the tools by which to "spread the word."