Servant Heart

An Amazing Blessing about Ministry

2011-09-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

Of late I have been taking an assessment of the time which God has graciously granted to serve him since 1993 until the present. From 1993 to 2008 I was blessed to serve in youth ministry in one form or fashion. In looking at that time Jill and I were discouraged at where many of those we served are at in their lives now in relation to serving the Lord. Yet in the midst of this God reminded us of the blessing of pouring our lives into others by seeing of late some those who are serving the Lord and making an impact for HIS Glory. It is amazing that each are serving right here in the Kershaw, SC area!

In our church I get to serve with Lonnie Smith. We met Lonnie while serving in Conway, SC and God has blessed us to have had a presence in his life since that time. He is quite gifted and he loves and serve our youth quite well at Oak Ridge. God has blessed Lonnie with a graciousness by which he carries himself and serves others. This gracious spirit comes from his love for his Savior. He is a challenge and an encouragement to both Jill and I along with being a blessing to our children. My goal is to love and serve him well while challenging him to continually mine the depths of the Gospel and to apply it well as he seeks to glorify HIM in all he does.

I have just recently re-connected with another of our former youth from our time in Conway as well. Hunter Frye is now a teacher at a local middle school here in the Kershaw area. We had watched him from afar on Facebook (some call this creepin' on Facebook, of which Jill is a master - lol) since our time in Conway and we had seen that he had been active in his faith and serving his Savior. I did not know that he was so close to us until I went to an Eighth Grade football game to support one of our youth and looked out at the field and my jaw dropped to see him coaching! We then talked after the game and then I was invited to a FCA meeting that he was leading at the middle school a few weeks later. I look forward to serving him in any way possible to foster more growth so that he can continue to impact students for HIS Glory.

It is so humbling to see these two men of God serving HIM! I must add that during this time God has also aloud us to see others that are serving the LORD and this has been humbling. What an honor we have been given to serve our amazing God and King. Jill and I have done so since we started dating in 1998 and I have been doing so since 1993. My prayer is that we can continue to love and serve well and always seek to find ways in which to pour ourselves out for HIS Glory!

Quote from Joe Thorn's great book "Note to Self"

2011-05-31T12:50:00.001-07:00

I have been reading a great book by Joe Thorn entitled "Note to Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself". I have been reading through this with our Youth Minister at Oak Ridge, Lonnie Smith. It has been quite good for my soul and challenging. God has blessed me through this and I highly encourage anyone to get this book. Here is a great quote:

"Seeking God means that you are continually aiming and working at knowing him more deeply, depending on him more thoroughly, and experiencing his grace more richly...It is unfortunate that you forget your need to seek God, for though you are right that God is enough, you forget that he is only found to be enough by those who seek him. Seeking God means that in all you do, you keep his honor in your mind, his Word in your heart, and his glory as your goal - so you are seeking to actually know him and make him known." (from Chapter 12 "Seek God")

Jerry Rankin Quote and News

2011-05-18T08:37:00.000-07:00

"We need to recognize that, in God's providence, all He allows us to experience is to result in a testimony to the nations." (from the chapter Dr. Rankin wrote in the new book "The Great Commission Resurgence

Dr. Rankin served with the IMB (International Mission Board) of the Southern Baptist Convention for 40 years. HE was the president of the IMB for 17 of those years. He is joining forces with Columbia International University (CIU). I started seminary at CIU (before finally finishing at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) and the school has a special place in my heart, here's the article:

Dr. Jerry Rankin to Head Zwemer Center for Muslim Studies at CIU

May 10, 2011

Dr. Jerry Rankin has been named the new director of The Zwemer Center for Muslim Studies at Columbia International University effective May 6. Rankin recently retired after 40 years of service with the Southern Baptist International Mission Board (IMB), the last 17 years as president. Prior to becoming president of the IMB, Dr. Rankin and his wife Bobbye served for 23 years in Asia, initially as missionaries in Indonesia, the largest Muslim country in the world.

The Zwemer Center offers a curriculum on Muslim Studies, including a master’s degree, and sponsors research, seminars, dialogues and training conferences.

While continuing to live at his home in Mississippi, Rankin will give direction to planning, administration and implementation of the growing Muslim Studies program at CIU under the auspices of the Zwemer Center.

Dr. Mike Barnett, the associate dean of the College of Intercultural Studies at CIU says Rankin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the area of Muslim Studies.

“Dr. Rankin’s decades of service with the IMB are invaluable as we look to the future at the Zwemer Center and consider new venues for Muslim studies both inside CIU’s College of Intercultural Studies, and assisting the church outside the university,” Barnett said.

Rankin replaces Dr. Warren Larson who will retire in 2012. Larson will continue to serve The Zwemer Center and CIU through his teaching, writing, and blogging.

A resource for Gospel-Centered Living

2011-05-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

Tullian Tchvidjian posted the following article on his blog with a list of 15 books for Christians to have more Biblical understanding of the Gospel:

As I’ve said before, I once assumed (along with the vast majority of professing Christians) that the gospel was simply what non-Christians must believe in order to be saved, while afterward we advance to deeper theological waters. But I’ve come to realize that once God rescues sinners, his plan isn’t to steer them beyond the gospel, but to move them more deeply into it. The gospel, in other words, isn’t just the power of God to save you, it’s the power of God to grow you once you’re saved. After all, the only antidote to sin is the gospel—and since Christians remain sinners even after they’re converted, the gospel must be the medicine a Christian takes every day.

This idea that the gospel is just as much for Christians as it is for non-Christians may seem like a new idea to many but, in fact, it is really a very old idea.

Well, I’ve had some great help along the way as I’ve wrestled with this “new idea.” There have been some books (beneath the Bible) which have helped me better understand how God intends the reality of the gospel to mold and shape and liberate us at every point and in every way. The following list of books (not in any particular order) is not exhaustive, but if you read them you will be moving in the right direction toward a better, more Biblical understanding of the Christian’s need for the gospel.

1. Transforming Grace by Jerry Bridges

2. The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges

3. The Gospel-Driven Life by Micheal Horton

4. In Christ Alone by Sinclair Ferguson

5. Scandalous Freedom by Steve Brown

6. When Being Good Isn’t Good Enough by Steve Brown

7. Because He Loves Me by Elyse Fitzpatrick

8. Christ Formed In You by Brian Hedges

9. Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller

10. The Prodigal God by Tim Keller

11. The Reign of Grace by Scotty Smith

12. Holiness by Grace by Bryan Chapell

13. From Fear to Freedom by Rose Marie Miller

14. Counsel From the Cross by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Dennis Johnson

15. The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification by Walter Marshall

Are there any others that you would suggest?

At the very least, begin with the list above. It will do your soul good. I promise.

My prayer for you (and for the whole church) is that as you come to a better understanding of the length and breadth of the gospel you will be recaptured everyday by the “God of great expenditure” who gave everything that we might possess all.

This is soooo me!

2011-05-11T05:13:00.001-07:00

I found this blog post by Kevin DeYoung so descriptive of me (he titled this post Parenting 001):

Does it seem like parenting has gotten more complicated? I mean, as far as I can tell, back in the day parents basically tried to feed their kids, clothe them, and keep them away from explosives. Now our kids have to sleep on their backs (no wait, their tummies; no never mind, their backs), while listening to Baby Mozart surrounded by scenes of Starry, Starry Night. They have to be in piano lessons before they are five and can’t leave the car seat until they’re about five foot six.

It’s all so involved. There are so many rules and expectations. Kids can’t even eat sugar anymore. My parents were solid as a rock but we still had a cupboard populated with cereal royalty like Captain Crunch and Count Chocula. In our house the pebbles were fruity and the charms were lucky. The breakfast bowl was a place for marshmallows, not dried camping fruit. Our milk was 2%. And sometimes, if we needed to take the edge off a rough morning, we’d tempt fate and chug a little Vitamin D.

Trial by Error

I don’t consider myself a particularly good parent. I was asked to speak a few years ago at some church’s conference. They wanted me to talk about parenting. I said I didn’t have much to say so they should ask someone else (which they did). My kids are probably not as crazy as they seem to me (at least that’s what I keep telling myself anyway), but if I ever write a book on parenting I’m going to call it The Inmates Are Running the Asylum.

There are already scores of books on parenting, many of them quite good. I’ve read several of them and have learned much. I really do believe in gospel-powered parenting and shepherding my child’s heart. I want conversations like this:

Me: What’s the matter son?
Child: I want that toy and he won’t give it to me!
Me: Why do you want the toy?
Child: Because it will be fun to play with.
Me: Do you think he is having fun playing with the toy right now?
Child: Yes.
Me: Would it make him sad to take the toy away?
Child: I guess so.
Me: And do you like to make your brother sad?
Child: No.
Me: You know, Jesus tells us to love our neighbor as ourselves. That means loving your brother the way he would want to be loved. Since Jesus loves us so much, we have every reason to love others–even your brother. Would you like to love him by letting him play with the toy for awhile?
Child: Yes I would daddy.

I try that. Really I do. But here’s what actually happens:

Me: What’s the matter son?
Child: I want that toy and he won’t give it to me!
Me: Why do you want the toy?
Child: I don’t know.
Me: What’s going on in your heart when you desire that toy?
Child: I don’t know.
Me: Think about it son. Use your brain. Don’t you know something?
Child: I guess I just want the toy.
Me: Obviously. But why?
Child: I don’t know.
Me: Fine. [Mental note: abandon "why" questions and skip straight to leading questions.] Do you think he is having fun playing with the toy right now?
Child: No.
Me: Really?! He’s not having fun? Then why does he want that toy in the first place?
Child: Because he’s mean.
Me: Have you ever considered that maybe you are being mean by trying to rip the toy from his quivering little hands?
Child: I don’t know.
Me: What do you know?
Child: I don’t know!
Me: Nevermind. [I wonder how my brilliant child can know absolutely nothing at this moment.] Well, I think taking the toy from him will make your brother sad. Do you like to make him sad?
Child: I don’t know.
Me: [Audible sigh.]
Child: He makes me sad all the time!
Me: Well, I’m getting sad right now with your attitude! [Pause, think, what would Paul Tripp do? Thinking . . . .thinking . . . .man, I can't stop thinking of that mustache. This isn't working. Let's just go right to the Jesus part.] You know, Jesus wants us to love each other.
Child: I don’t know.
Me: I didn’t ask you a question!
Child: [Pause.] Can I have some fruit snacks?
Me: No, you can’t have fruit snacks. We are talking about the gospel. Jesus loves us and died for us. He wants you to love your brother too.
Child: So?
Me: So give him the toy back!

Then I lunge for the toy and the child runs away. I tell him to come back here this instant and threaten to throw the toy in the trash. I recommit myself to turning down speaking engagements on parenting.

Growing What You Can

I want to grow as a parent–in patience and wisdom and consistency. But I also know that I can’t change my kids’ hearts. I am responsible for my heart and must be responsible to teach them the way of the Lord. But nothin’ guarantees nothin’. I’m just trying to be faithful, and then repent for all the times I’m not.

I have four kids and besides the Lord’s grace, I’m banking on the fact that there really are just a few non-negotiables in parenting. There are plenty of ways to screw up our kids, but whether they color during church, for example, is not one of them. There is not a straight line from doodling in the service as a toddler to doing meth as a teenager. Could it be that beyond the basics of godly parenting, that most of the other techniques and convictions are nibbling around the edges? Certainly, there are lots of ways that good parents make parenting a saner, more enjoyable experience, but even the kid addicted to Angry Birds who just downed a pack of Fun Dip and is now watching his third Pixar movie of the week (day?) still has a decent shot at not being a sociopath.

I remember years ago hearing a line from Alistair Begg, quoting another man, that went like this: “When I was young I had six theories and no kids. Now I have six kids and no theories.” I must be smart. It only took me four kids to run out of theories.

Getting a Few Things Right

I look back at my childhood and think, “What did my parents do right?” I watched too many Growing Pains reruns and played a lot of Super Techmo Bowl (LT could block every extra point and Christian Okoye was a stud). I never learned to like granola or my vegetables (kids, stop reading this post immediately!). But yet, I always knew they loved me. They made me go to church every Wednesday and twice on every Sunday. They made us do our homework. They laid down obvious rules–the kinds that keep kids from killing each other. They wouldn’t accept any bad language, and I didn’t hear any from them. Mom took care of us when we were sick. Dad told us he loved us. I never found porn around the house or booze or dirty secrets. We read the Bible. We got in trouble when we broke the rules. I don’t remember a lot of powerful heart-to-heart conversations. But we knew who we were, where we stood, and what to expect. I’d be thrilled to give my kids the same.

I worry that many young parents are a) too adamant about the particulars of their parenting or b) too sure that every decision will set their kids on an unalterable trajectory to heaven or hell. It’s like my secretary at the church once told me: “Most moms and dads think they are either the best or the worst parents in the world, and both are wrong.” Could it be we’ve made parenting too complicated? Isn’t the most important thing not what we do but who we are as parents? They will see our character before they remember our exact rules regarding television and twinkies.

I could be wrong. My kids are still young. Maybe this no-theory is a theory of its own. I just know that the longer I parent the more I want to focus on doing a few things really well, and not get too passionate about all the rest. I want to spend time with my kids, teach them the Bible, take them to church, laugh with them, cry with them, discipline them when they disobey, say sorry when I mess up, and pray like crazy. I want them to look back and think, “I’m not sure what my parents were doing or if they even knew what they’re were doing. But I always knew my parents loved me and I knew they loved Jesus.” Maybe it’s not that complicated after all.

Great Quote from J.C. Ryle

2011-05-08T15:56:00.000-07:00

"Weak, feeble and foolish as it may seem to people, the simple story of the Cross is enough for all mankind in every part of the globe."

The story of the Cross is devastatingly simple and yet it changed history! I'm so thankful for HIS story and for the graciousness HE has shown! This graciousness was undeserved in every way and yet bestowed anyway. Because of HIS grace I've been transformed...I shudder every time I consider this!

I love J.C. Ryle and I encourage any and every person to read his material!

Quotes from John Owen

2011-04-27T05:15:00.000-07:00

"Be killing sin or it will be killing you."

How true this is! We must daily be seeking out and killing the sin that destroys by means of the gospel!

"Past faithfulness is not a protection against present dangers."

Too often we find ourselves "resting on our laurels" especially when it comes to our faith. Past faithfulness is just that and yet it seems to be what most seem to be content with. This keeps us out of God's will. May our hearts be repentant and may we diligently guard and apply the gospel daily to keep us from such apathetic lives of contentment.

Great Quote

2011-03-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

"Sin is the ultimate disease, the grand psychosis. You cannot escape it or defeat it...We deal with much more than suffering, disease, disappointment, and death. Our deepest problem is not experimental, biological, or relational; it is moral, and it alters everything. It distorts our identity, alters our perspective, derails our behavior, and kidnaps our hope."

This quote is from Paul David Tripp when speaking of what sin does to us in "Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands" (p.12)

My wife is amazing

2011-02-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Lately my wife has amazed me. There are too many instances to truly name but I wanted to share a few.

We have been trying to reach young couples and singles along with establishing a consistent Children's ministry so that we can invest in the children of our church, especially on Sunday evenings. Jill volunteered to co-teach the class with me because of her heart for young ladies that age and leads our Sunday Night ministry Worship Kidstyle. She works nights and frequently works on weekends. She often works on Saturday Night which means she works 7pm Saturday evening to 7am Sunday morning. She will say up and help to teach Sunday morning and then go to service. She then wakes up and leads Worship Kidstyle. No, I did not ask her to do any of this she does it out of a heart to serve and see people established in their relationship with our Great God and King.

In December, I saw her do something that blew me away! We were going out to eat and I had the kids with me in the party wagon (a.k.a. the minivan) while she was following behind us in the car. She had to work that evening so I decided to "cook" dinner ;). I came over a rise and noticed the truck coming toward me was veering off the road. He then over corrected and flipped! I called 911 (it took forever on the phone, if I would've been in the process of being attacked I would've been dead - but back to he story). Jill then came over the rise and saw the truck. She stopped immediately and by the time I got off the phone she had "army crawled" into the truck which was on its roof through shards of glass and was pulling the man to safety! When the EMT s arrived and took the man we noticed her arm hard been cut up by the glass. Seeing her in "nurse mode" was amazing.

Now all this sounds like the biased opinion of a blessed husband and to a certain extent it is. Yet the amazing thing is that these acts and the heart with which they are graciously lived out are the norm not the extraordinary and for that I'm eternally grateful for HIS placing of Jill into my life. I'm thankful for HIS allowing me to cherish and serve such a gift as Jill.

It's been a while

2011-01-29T19:30:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since my last post and there has been much happening. I will put up some posts to catch up over the next week or so. I guess I'll start with my Dad's upcoming surgery. He's been diagnosed with prostate cancer and has surgery this Friday. I will be traveling to West Virginia on Thursday and then return on Saturday so that I can be there with him, Mom, and my sister Amy.

The difficult thing about living so far from family is when issues such as this arise. With our parents getting older there is, at least in my mind, a thought of what to do if health becomes a distinct factor being this far away. The added difficulty is being able to travel or find childcare without having family near us. We have been away from family for almost our entire marriage and all three of our children have been born here in South Carolina so we are used to trusting in HIS provision and we are so thankful for HIS graciousness to us. Yet when times like this arise it is difficult. In the midst of the difficulty we have found that HIS faithfulness is so amazing and this aids us in making trusting HIM our default position rather than seeking to trust in and of ourselves to come up with the needed resources or answers and that is a wonderful expression of HIS grace to us.

As for this trip to West Virginia, Jill was unable to switch a scheduled shift so both her and the kids will be staying here while I travel. We are thankful for a member of the body at Oak Ridge that will be staying with the kids and taking them to school the next morning while Jill is at work that night. This is yet another way in which HIS body is caring for us and by which HE is meeting our needs.

I will post more over the upcoming weeks to catch up on all that HE has been faithful in providing over the past few months. Please be in prayer for my Dad and for us as we will be apart for those two nights.

Amazing Daddy Moment

2010-12-02T18:44:00.000-08:00

Chloe's teacher sent this email to Jill today and she then forwarded it to me:

Chloe left with the nursery riders before I gave out KES Folders. Her folder will be on her desk Friday morning and she can bring it home. She made a 100% Spelling, 100% Reading & 100% Math!!! So wonderful!! She is such a blessing to our class. Today, our new friend needed help with her clock sheet, Chloe didn't know I was watching and she sweetly explained how to count the minutes by 5s. It was such a tender moment! I told her she should be a teacher when she grows up! Thank you for sharing your precious little girl with me!

Nicole
Nicole Gardner
Kershaw Elementary School
Lancaster County School District

I pulled the van over and I read this and began cry. I cried over the second half of the email as this is what we hope of our children because character is displayed when nobody else is looking and our sincere hope is that this character reflects Christ. I decided to have Chloe come the front of the van so we could talk. I had her read the email and as she was reading tears streamed down my face. These tears were tears of thankfulness for God's goodness. We try over and over to implant seeds of the gospel which we pray will take root and will result someday in Chloe embracing Christ as Savior. When HE graces us with snippets such as this email it makes our hearts leap for joy! After she read this we were both weeping along the side of the road in Camden. I explained to her that hearing that she is doing things such as this is so beautiful because it reflects what Jesus' heart. I told her I loved her and that I was proud of her, which I would be if we had the email or not, then held her and prayed as we both had tears streaming down our cheeks. I thanked HIM for HIS goodness and prayed that these seeds of the gospel we are planting fully take root and that she embraces Christ as Savior and fully reflects HIS beauty.

A thought about serving in rural areas

2010-10-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

I just returned to the house from a funeral for a gentleman that was a retired Pastor. He served in churches in rural South Carolina, West Virginia, and Virginia. He served as an interim at our church about 7 or 8 years ago. I was struck by the words shared because they were words that glorified God for the life he lived.

I did not have the privilege of knowing Thomas Taylor as the time I did get to visit him was at the end of his life and he was in bad shape. He never served in a large congregation yet served faithfully in rural contexts for over 30 yrs. There is much to be thankful for when it comes to the faithfulness of those who invest their lives in the body in what was described today as the out of the way places. He did that. The church was not packed out today but the was a definite spirit of thankfulness for one who shepherded the souls of those where many would not go serve.

I pray that it can be said of me that I was faithful to the gospel, that the gospel truly saturated my soul, and that I served well when I reach the end of my life. I have found that there is no out of the way place in His will. There is nothing easy about shepherding in a rural context yet there is nothing better than serving our Great God and King where HE has placed me. I'm thankful the HE reminded me of that today.

Amazing

2010-09-30T15:38:00.000-07:00

Something amazing happened last night during our midweek service. Let me give some background first. We are in dire need of improving our sound in our sanctuary. The lack of quality effects our worship services. With that said we have priced what we need to improve our sound and the total comes to over $9000. The initial step in this improvement process would cost approximately $3500. Since we have just carpeted most of our church, which was needed badly as the carpet we had was 40 yrs old (yes, that is four years older than I am and it was looking that way) we did not have any money to put toward the sound.

So that brings us to last night. There was an envelop in the church office and I was asked what it was for and said I have no idea and told those in the office to tell me after service. That did not happen as our Music Minister busted through the door waving her hand for me to come to the office. When I got back to the office there were huge smiles! In the envelop was $3500 in cash and written on the were the words "Sound System"! Yes, almost exactly what we needed for our initial step in our sound improvement! God is so amazing!

I have been praying daily for months about our sound situation. It is something that will glorify God and enhance our worship in being able to do so. I am totally humbled by HIS provision! Thank you Lord!

Great Article

2010-09-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

Read this great article today by Nancy Pearcy:

http://www.pearceyreport.com/archives/2010/09/secular_values.php

Ministering to those Grieving

2010-09-09T05:59:00.000-07:00

Ministering to those grieving is a distinct privilege and responsibility. I have to admit that I'm not good at this. For the most part we are always good at the point of loss but after the funeral when the "rubber meets the road" we "drop the ball". The Lord has challenged me in this of late, especially as a dear friend of mine at the church nears the end of his life. The need for the Body to care for those well after the funeral is huge. It is such an amazing time for the Gospel to be embodied in our care for the souls of the family as they grieve. If we are the Gospel-centered community we should be then we must take on this task and serve well those in our Body whose souls are aching.

The weeks that follow should include direct care by the Pastor and the Body. The Pastor should engage his people in the process of care immediately. He should be quite visible in the beginning while bringing along others from the Body and all the while should allow the Body to function as HE so beautifully intends it to.

The goal is soulcare and seeing the Gospel applied. Grieving is needed and should happen. The function of the Body in the midst of it should be an essential part of the process. Lord, may I love and serve well as a shepherd in this and may our Body do the same.

Caitlyn is in Kindergarten!

2010-08-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Caitlyn is now in Kindergarten!!! She only had to go for an hour and a half today but it's official! Jill went to class with her for her first day. Jill said she was pretty shy but she'll make some friends soon enough. Here are some pics of her day:

Here she is posing before leaving the house with mama!

Here she is leaving with her new backpack on!

Entering class for the first time! I can see the apprehension on her face!

On the carpet with her new classmates!

She is without a doubt the most beautiful girl in her class! I'm so proud of Daddy's Little Girl! I can't wait to hear her stories of all she is learning each day when she gets home! WOW! We now have 2 in school!

Chloe's first day of 2nd grade

2010-08-16T07:04:00.001-07:00

Today Chloe started 2nd Grade! It's so hard to believe she is now 7 and in 2nd Grade! As her proud Daddy I was a big dork and took the camera as I was dropping her off (she didn't mind as she loves posing for the camera). Here are some pics:

Here she is in front of the school sign. She is not only starting a new grade but is at a new school.

Here she is in front of her desk.

Here she is with her teacher, Mrs. Gardener.

I'm so proud of Chloe. She is growing into a beautiful young lady! She loves school and through our interaction thus far with her teacher she seems to really love teaching and investing in children so we are excited to see her continued growth this year.

The Joyce's Visit

2010-08-16T06:17:00.000-07:00

While in Wake Forest we were blessed to serve in an amazing local Body, North Wake Church. While there we met the Joyce's (Chris, Stephnie, and Madeline). We were in small group together. They have been great friend's and we love them. This weekend they came to visit!

We took them to Jill's favorite restaurant in the world - Sato's! Sato's is a Japanese Steakhouse and we had a blast! They also got to worship with us at Oak Ridge (our Body loved on them well!)! Chris had not heard me preach before and said he loved it (he is always an encourager). Here are some pics of the kids together:

Here are Caleb and Madeline! They made a real "connection" during the visit! He's only 3 and a "ladies man" already and an older lady at that as she will be 5 in January! He even carried out her suitcase when they were leaving (such a gentleman)! We will be keeping an eye on these two the next time we get together!

Here's the posse -Madeline, Caitlyn, and Chloe! They had a great time hanging out together! The girls love Madeline!

VBS 2010

2010-08-16T05:15:00.001-07:00

As soon as I returned from camp we had VBS here at Oak Ridge (actually we started the next day). Some say VBS does not work anymore yet that comes from those not in our context. It works quite well and our VBS this year was a great success. Our attendance from those inside and outside the church was awesome! We broke 100 on two different nights - which is amazing! Most importantly we saw two 6th grade boys embrace Christ as Savior! We also have many with which to follow up with.

Our kids had a blast! Caleb and Caitlyn were in Jill's class. Jill is a great teacher and they enjoyed each night. Her class had as many as 18 3 to 5 yr olds so she was busy throughout the week! Here are some pics:

Caleb is getting so big! Each day he was so pumped to go! I pray he embraces Christ and lives passionately for HIM!

Chloe posing as usual, she is so beautiful. She has really grown since we've moved here! She is like a sponge and took in so much of the teaching through the week! May she embrace Christ and shine for HIM!

This pic is not focused that well but it is still easy to see how beautiful Caitlyn has become! She will be starting Kindergarten this year! She learns by participating in activity and she loved all the activities at VBS. She is such a free spirit, may she embrace Christ and HE use this to glorify Himself!

This is a pic of Nikki Gainey. She had her face dunked in baked beans during our Family Night. We collected money throughout the week for a mission project. The winner (either the girls or boys - the girls won) got to vote on who they wanted to see dunked. I thought for sure that it was "rigged" and that I would be the one, which would've been fine, but I got got lucky because Nikki's husband collected the votes and the girls voted for her (they associated her with him and forgot about voting for me!). All the teachers voted for me but the girls out voted them! Nikki was a great sport!

One of the great things about serving here with this Body at Oak Ridge is their heart to serve those in need in our community as a demonstration of the Gospel. This is a pic of the house we worked on for our VBS Mission Project. This pic does not truly do the condition of the home justice. The home was in terrible shape. We cleared numerous overgrown trees and shrubs from around the house. We cleared and cleaned off the porch of old furniture, trash, and other "stuff". We cleaned a ton of trash bags (some of which were decomposing) out of the yard and from around the home itself. At two dfferent times I had a watery, disgusting slime-like substance either spilled on me or squirt in my mouth! (It was kinda funny but nasty at the same time!) Me and my friend Tick Wilson were the designated spider killers, we killed a ton of huge spiders, they were truly huge! When we left the house looked so much better! We did not take the pics, as we were exhausted, to truly do justice for the work done. We will be going back to continue with some painting and with continued follow up with the Gospel.

What a great VBS!

A Wonderful Blessing

2010-08-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

Over the past week I have been on a mission to find some Bibles for our church. I contacted two different publishers in my search. I first contacted Crossway publishers who publishes the ESV (English Standard Version) which I preach from. I also contacted B&H publishing, which publishes the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) which we use in all of our Sunday School materials, who was unable to help.

When I contacted Crossway and was totally blown away! They agreed to send us 40 Bibles for free! I was so blessed that I decided to send a message on facebook to Justin Taylor who is an editor at Crossway and writes a blog "Between Two Worlds" that I read daily. When I contacted him he said he would send another case (24) to us! I have loved reading books published by Crossway for years and love reading and studying from the ESV. I was humbled by the graciousness they showed us.

The gift of these Bibles from Crossway is one that will not be soon forgotten! They will be used in our pews and in follow up as we see people embrace Christ as Savior! I cannot begin to thank them enough for this gift! WOW!

Jr I.A. Camp 2010

2010-08-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

Last week I was at Jr I.A. Camp. When I arrived at Oak Ridge they asked if there was anything that I would want to continue to be involved with that I would need to be gone from the church for. I told them about this camp. I have been attending this camp for 5 years. I have served in various capacities and have truly grown to love the kids. My dear friend, Billy Wayne, leads the camp. His ministry, Vision Productions, pays the way for many of the campers to attend the camp. Many of the campers are from very difficult situations and we get the chance to love them with the love of Christ for a week. It is a truly special camp and I hope to be involved with it for years to come.

In years past I served as a counselor/small group leader. Last year I had the privilege to serve as co-Camp Dean (I was the male Camp Dean and my dear friend Mary McClure, who is awesome, served as the female Camp Dean - I got to spend a night in the ER with her after she was bit by a spider on Tuesday evening, we finally got back to camp at 7am and camp kicks off at 7:45am so we rearranged some things for that morning and we each got about 3 hrs sleep and then hit the ground running!). As Camp Dean I deal with "behavior issues" with male campers, resource counselors, and lead the Jr Counsleors. This year was crazy! I was co-Camp Dean, small group leader, and got to drive the ministry's bus! Billy's ministry, Vision Productions, had a church donate a 1983 big yellow school bus and since I was the only one attending the camp with my CDL so I got to drive the beast. I found out about driving the bus 2 days before leaving for camp. I had to go and get my DOT physical the day before leaving (luckily there was no coughing necessary - lol). After driving the bus for a week on narrow, winding country roads and through downtown Gatlinburg I now have a new found respect for my father-in-law who drove a school bus for 30 yrs! The driving was not difficult the 55 screaming campers and lack of air conditioning was.

The camp was amazing. The Jr Counselors did a great job and I was blessed to serve with them. They listened to us and were attentive to the Spirit as He lead. As for my small group they were a pleasure to serve. My Jr Counselor, Lindsay, and I had little to no trouble. The small goups compete in a points competition and we won! That makes 4 out of 4 times as a small group leader that the small group I served won! That really sounded boastful but seeing the kids in the small group pumped after hearing the final score is the best and the camp is truly about them. It was awesome to see how the small group embraced what we were instilling in them by serving others throughout the week (this is what put us over the top) and by the end of the week they were serving without any prompting - so awesome!

As for the week, we had 55 campers and it was amazing to see how God moved! We were able to see 12 campers emabrace Christ as Savior and 15 others rededicate their lives! It is humbling to see Him do what only He can do! I look forward to next year and to hopefully having further involvement with Billy and his minstry here at Oak Ridge.

Getting settled in

2010-07-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

We are getting settled in. Boxes are a real pain to lug around and unpack but Jill has the house arranged and we have been able to have people over to hang out and eat. We hope to have people over more to be able to get to know them more intimately and to be able to serve and love on them. It is a great joy to be able to do this and we look forward to this aspect of serving the Body.

My parents visited for an entire week! This doesn't happen often so we had an amazing week! Mom (one of the truly nicest people ever) had a blast with the kids and Jill. Dad (one of my heroes) got to hang out with the kids and have some "man" time with Caleb. By the end of the week the kids were loving all over them and they were eating it up!

I look forward to more visits now that we are moved in and at a place where we are hoping to establish some roots. It is difficult not living near family as most of our siblings do but HE has always blessed us with those from the Body that love and serve us well as we do the same for them - what a beautiful expression of the Gospel that is! Serving our great God and King is a distinct privilege and we would not change a thing!

As of today I guess you can say we are official South Carolinians again. We switched out tags on the vehicles on Monday but couldn't do the same for our drivers liscences because I didn't have a birth certificate (never had one for 35 yrs) and Jill didn't have a marriage certificate (never had one for 11 yrs of marriage - yes, we are legally married) to prove who we are to the fine state of South Carolina. We had them "super air mailed" so that we could get this done and we finally got this done this morning. It was good Jill did this (I should not have complained about the cost) because my D.O.T. physical expires tomorrow and I wouldn't have been able to renew my CDL without it. So, South Carolina now has a ton of our money (and will continue to collect in the years to come) and we are now "official" residents.

It was a good thing I renew my CDL because my dear friend Billy Wayne called to ask if I would drive their bus with a load of campers this upcoming week (that should be fun - lol). I'm leaving on Saturday to serve at Billy's Jr. I.A. Camp next week but before I leave I have to get my physical tomorrow. I will be updating on facebook how HE is moving at camp.

Seminary Graduation

2010-07-11T19:13:00.001-07:00

Some thoughts on Seminary Graduation and some pics of some professors to share with everybody. I have to admit May 28th was an emotional day for me. It was the end of a long, long journey. It was also a joyous time to celebrate with both sets of parents and my sister getting to be there with us. Leading up to the time I was so stressed. Papers and finals were hanging over my head along with some major personal issues. This semester I wrote 16 or 17 papers - I have never wrote so much in my life! Writing for me is a bit of a struggle and takes much time. Jill was gracious through it all as I had to be at the Library quite a bit, especially toward the end of the semester. This semester I also had 3 extraordinary professors. They were amazing because they cared for me not as a student but as Man of God and father. It was humbling to have sat under such men and I am indebted to them and cherish their examples as Men of God. Here are some pics and thoughts about each:

This picture is with Dr. Shawn Madden, myself, Caitlyn, and Caleb. I was not able to get a picture with him on graduation day so I went to his office before moving to Kershaw and shared a few moments. He taught my Hebrew I & II courses. I found the courses quite difficult yet his engaging style made class enjoyable. I look forward to continuing contact with him. He tenderness of heart and encouragement were both beautiful things this semester.

This picture is with Dr. Todd Borger. He taught my Old Testament II course. I have fallen in love with the Old Testament over the past few years and he continued to fan the flame in my wanting to pursue God in this way. It was his first year at the school after teaching in Malaysia and I was the first student of his at Southeastern to graduate. I look forward to coninued contact with him and that our friendship will grow.

This picture is with Dr. Danny Akin. He is the president of the school and taught my Expository Preaching course this semester. I was scared to death to take this course because of the courseload and because he is a very direct person and I thought he might tear me up when I had to preach. In the end his passion for the Word of God and preaching challenged my heart in ways that will continue to impact my ministry for years to come. It was a pleasure to get to know him personally and to have him take an disticnt interest in my life.

God placed each of these 3 men in my life this semester to encourage and challenge me through a very difficult time and I thankful for HIS use of them during that time. I will not soon forget the impact of each.

What a month!

2010-06-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

It has been such a long time since my last post! There has been so much that has happened especially in the past month. I will post more as time allows about all that HE has done over these past months. As for this past month I will post a few thoughts and comment on a few events.

First of all, on May 28th I graduated from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary! It was a long haul! I actually started seminary at Columbia Internaltional University (Columbia Bibilical Seminary & School of Missions) in 2001 and went off and on (more off than on). We moved to Wake Forest, NC to SEBTS on July 1, 2008 to finish and finishing was quite a relief for both Jill and I. She was amazing (as usual) throughout my time of struggling through papers and other assignments.

Over the past 3 weeks both of our vehicles that we have had for over 7 yrs had major issues. We had our Honda Oddysey since '03 and our Toyota Camry since '01. Our van had transmission issues and we had to get a new van (the first car payment we've had in 2.5 yrs, one of the ways which HE provided as we attended seminary). Then on this past Friday our car broke down as we were driving down I-95. The engine was toast after the oil filter was not put on right last week during an oil change. The good thing is that the mechanic is going to be a stand up guy and take quite a hit to help us out and put a new (used) engine in for us.

All of this with the constancy of moving (my back is sore!) has kept us busy and tired! I will try and keep the blog updated...we are so excited to be here in Kershaw loving and serving at Oak Ridge Baptist Church!

Me a Pastor?

2010-03-30T14:34:00.000-07:00

On March 21st I preached in view of a call at Oak Ridge Baptist Church in Kershaw, SC. Following the service the congregation voted to call me to be their Pastor! It is hard to put into words how humbled we are to have been granted an opportunity such as this. Oak Ridge has been amazing to us and we are looking forward to loving and serving well with them.

When we arrived at SEBTS our assumption was that we would finish here and then God would place us in the position to continue to serve youth. While here He has given us a desire to serve in a rural context. This is Oak Ridge. To us this is a dream come true. Throughout the whole process with them He has guided each step. We have been blown away by their care for us and we look forward to continuing to fall in love with them and Him for a long time.

We will start in June after finishing here at SEBTS. Thank You Lord for your graciousness to us in providing this amazing opportunity! Me a Pastor? I still can't believe it!

Interesting Article

2010-03-30T07:01:00.000-07:00

I read this article this morning and found it interesting. Much in American Christianity is about "easy believism" and this article shows that there is a backlash of sorts happening in this regard:

http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Society/2010/0327/Christian-faith-Calvinism-is-back

while Calvinism may be scary to some I think a great point to consider is not about Calvinism but in the desire for Christians to return to a God-centered and Scripture soaked faith that calls us to trust passionately and think deeply. This is encouraging because I believe it is when American Christians return in this way to HIM HE will move in mighty ways!

This is a great article on politics

2010-03-23T11:37:00.000-07:00

West Virginia Headline News and Talk Radio

A friend introduced me to this article and thought I'd post it. Really enjoyed this.

Big Week Ahead

2010-03-17T17:22:00.000-07:00

Big week ahead! Tomorrow I have 5 book reviews due with each one being 5 to 7 pages - ugh! The great news is what is happening this weekend! Friday we will leave for Kershaw, South Carolina as I will be preaching in view of a call on Sunday morning! The name of the church is Oak Ridge Baptist Church. I will meet with the Deacons on Saturday then we will all go to a church fellowship where I will field questions from those present. They will vote following the service on Sunday. (Then when we return I have to complete a 10-12 page paper and get ready to present it next Thursday)

As for this weekend we are excited! The church has been wonderful to us and we are looking forward to loving and serving them well! I will keep you updated! Be in prayer for us!

Great Giveaway

2010-03-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

Great book giveaway:

http://jcrylequotes.com/2010/03/06/meet-the-puritans-book-giveaway/#comment-1363

I love J.C. Ryle and this site has been a blessing. Check it out!

Cool Daddy Moment

2010-03-01T10:57:00.000-08:00

Last night we decided to go out to eat. When the food arrived Chloe's meal was not what we ordered. For a six year old this was quite devastating. Caitlyn then said, "it's alright Chloe here is half of my dinner," and had me cut it in half and give it to her sister. At this point Chloe buried her had in my side and began to cry. I asked if she was alright and she nodded yes. I then told her that her sister loves her very much and she said that was why she was crying. How cool is that!

Also, as I have been putting the kids down for bed each night we have been reading together from "The Jesus Storybook Bible" together. It has been awesome to see how they have loved spending this time together. First Caleb and I will go through a page and then pray then I will go to the girl's room and we will read, they will ask questions, and then we will pray. My prayer is that HE will continue to bless this time and that they will all embrace HIM as Savior!

February 22nd is a big day

2010-02-20T14:04:00.000-08:00

On February 22nd the Great Commission Task Force of the Southern Baptist Convention will be delivering their report. This is huge for the future of the denomination. While I love the SBC I am passionately devoted to the Gospel of Christ and what will be laid out in this report has much to do with the Gospel-centeredness of the denomination I'm part of. Here is an interesting article:

http://baptistmessenger.com/editors-journal-all-eyes-on-nashville/

My prayer is that we make some changes to be more focused on what we should be focused on. There is a culture that is in effect and to shift that culture will take seismic shifts in our denomination and direction. May we be faithful in our service to HIM.

Interesting Insight

2010-01-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

After reading todays sections of scripture I read this commentary by D.A. Carson about Hagar and found it very interesting:

Genesis 16; Matthew 15; Nehemiah 5; Acts 15
IN ALL OF ANCIENT NEAR EASTERN LITERATURE, so far as I am aware, Hagar is the only woman whom Deity directly addresses by name (Gen. 16:8; 21:17). The woman in question is not one of the great matriarchs of the Old Testament — Sarah, perhaps, or Rachel, or Rebekah — but a slave who resents her mistress and flees. Yet God addresses her, tells her to submit to Sarai (16:9), promises that the child she is carrying in her womb will be a son, and later tells her that that son will be the progenitor of a great nation (21:18).
The account has many interwoven layers to think about. Placed after God’s covenant with Abram in Genesis 15, this incident reflects well on neither Abram nor Sarai. Desperate for children, they think they have the right to bring God’s purposes — and their own desires! — to pass by legal but shady means. The result is not only tension in their household for years to come — tension that spills over into the next generation (Gen. 21, 25), but the beginnings of the Arab peoples, who frequently find themselves locked in hostility with Israel to this day. One of the great features of the Bible is its sheer honesty: great men and women are portrayed with all their warts. This remains a broken world, and the very best are fallen. This should warn us against untamed hero-worship.
Yet there is another connection with the previous chapters. God had promised Abram that all peoples on earth would be blessed through him (12:3). The election of Abram is a means to that end. However focused on Abram’s offspring his purposes will be, God remains the sovereign Lord of all. In the book of Genesis, the account of Abram is nestled into the broader account of the creation of all, and the Fall of all. And so here, at the very beginning of the history of the nation of Israel, God displays his concern for the despised and the outcast, people who are not organically connected with the promised line.
We may detect the same concern in the Lord Jesus. In Matthew 15:21-18, Jesus well knows that during the days of his flesh his mission is in the first instance directed to “the lost sheep of Israel” (15:24). There is a redemptive-historical primacy to the ancient covenant people of God. But this does not prevent him from acknowledging the remarkable faith of yet another woman, a Canaanite, who wisely changes her plea. She no longer addresses Christ as “Son of David” (15:22), on who she can make no direct claim, and simply pleads for mercy (15:27). Another “Hagar” finds that mercy abundant, as countless people do today.

If you've taken up the challenge to do a reading plan for the year keep it up! If you haven't started then take up the challenge and start today!

Large Churches vs. Small Churches

2010-01-13T16:58:00.000-08:00

As someone in whom God has birthed a love for smaller churches I thought this teaching from James MacDonald was awesome:

http://blog.harvestbiblefellowship.org/?p=3589

his teaching is called "Large Churches vs. Small Churches" and the video is great!

Brit Hume

2010-01-08T18:35:00.000-08:00

Brit Hume, a Fox News contributor, recently encouraged Tiger Woods to "embraced the forgiveness Christianity offers". This has set off a shower of disdain toward Hume. May vigorous and slanderous attacks have been rendered toward Hume. I read this article by Michael Gerson and found it quite interesting:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/07/AR2010010703244.html?nav=rss_opinion/columns

This definitely challenges us to think about who it is that is really intolerant in the situation.

I am now eligible and available

2010-01-03T19:28:00.000-08:00

I turned 35 in September and I just realized that I'm now eligible to be President of the United States of America. I am officially "throwing my hat in the ring" for 2012 and all elections thereafter. From what I've seen there is no prior experience needed for the position so I'm qualified. For write in puposes (if the funding for a campaign somehow doesn't show up by 2012) my name is spelled D-A-L-E M-Y-E-R-S. I'm pretty sure this will be a "grassroots" effort so I thought I'd declare now.

What a great way to start the year

2010-01-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

What a great way to start the year! Listen to what D.A. Carson has to say about Genesis 1:

January 1
ALL FOUR OF THESE CHAPTERS (from the Robert Murray M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan) DEPICT NEW BEGINNINGS, but the first reading – Genesis 1 – portrays the beginning of everything in this created universe.
On the face of it, this chapter, and the lines of thought it develops, establish that God is different from the universe that he creates, and therefore pantheism is ruled out; that the original creation was entirely good, and therefore dualism is ruled out; that human beings, male and female together, are alone declared to be made in the image of God, and therefore forms of reductionism that claim we are part of the animal kingdom and no more must be ruled out; that God is a talking God, and therefore all notions of an impersonal God must be ruled out; that this God has sovereignly made all things, including all people, and therefore conceptions of merely tribal deities must be ruled out.
Some of these and other matters are put positively by later writers of Scripture who, reflecting on the doctrine of creation, offer a host of invaluable conclusions. The sheer glory of the created order bears telling witness to the glory of its Maker (Ps. 19). The universe came into being by the will of God, and for this, God is incessantly worshipped (Rev. 4:11). That God has made everything speaks of his transcendence, i.e., he is above this created order, above time and space, and therefore cannot be domesticated by anything in it (Acts 17:24-25). That he made all things and continues to rule over all, means that both racism and tribalism are to be rejected (Acts 17:26). Further, if we ourselves have been made in his image, it is preposterous to think that God can properly be pictured by some image that we can concoct (Acts 17:29). These notions and more are teased out by later Scriptures.
One of the most important entailments of the doctrine of creation is this: it grounds all human responsibility. The theme repeatedly recurs in the Bible, sometimes explicitly, sometimes by implication. To take but one example, John’s gospel opens by declaring that everything that was created came into being by the agency of God’s “Word,” the Word that became flesh in Jesus Christ (John 1:2-3, 14). But this observation sets the stage for a devastating indictment: when this Word came into the world, and even though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him (John 1:10). God made us to “image” himself; he made us for his own glory. For us to imagine ourselves autonomous is, far from being a measure of our maturity, the supreme mark of our rebellion, the flag of our suppression of the truth (Rom. 1).

God's Word is amazing! the Author loves us dearly! Let's seek HIS Face through HIS Word this year together! You can follow along daily on the For the Love of GOd link on the left.

For the Love of GOD

2010-01-01T08:36:00.000-08:00

Starting Robert Murray M'Cheyne's reading plan for the year and found blog based on D.A. Carson's devotional "For the Love of GOD" that is based on readings from M'Cheyne's plan. I added a link on the left for you to follow along with if you're willing to cowboy up and follow along with the plan with me!

(see the link "For the Love of GOD" on the left)

Cherished Friends!

2009-12-29T18:06:00.001-08:00

This is a picture from our visit to Parkersburg, WV. In the picture are 4 of the best friends I have ever had. From Left to Right:

Doug Sandy - Pastor of Highland Baptist Church in Mullens, WV
Jeff Cox - Youth Pastor at River Valley Community Church in Vienna, WV
Steve Lloyd - Pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Fayetteville, NC
Eric Leeson - Youth Pastor at Porterfield Baptist Church in Belpre, OH

I have been blessed to have these men in my life. Jeff, Eric, and Steve were all in my wedding (they made me look much better looking than I really am!) and I was in their weddings (though I have always been so much better looking than them). With us all together with our children we had to ask for a table for 20!

It's amazing to have men in my life that have held me accountable when I needed it and held me up when I was about to collapse. God continually blows me away through each of these men! I stand in awe of HIM and HIS work in them! All have such tender hearts for the LORD and are used by HIM to challenge me all the time!

Thank You LORD for these men!

Read the Bible in 2010

2009-12-29T17:31:00.000-08:00

I have a challenge for you to consider for 2010. Pick a Bible Reading Plan and stick to it! There is nothing more important than knowing God's will and there is no way to know it apart from HIS Word! I have 2 links on the left to help you out:

1) Bible Reading Plans - this link has a variety of plans to pick from.
2) Customizable Bible Reading Plans - this link has plans you can customize and reading through your phone.

Take up the challenge with me! Hold me accountable and I'll do the same for you! Let me know if you take up the gauntlet and decide to dig into the Word!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T21:14:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

This is a great picture. Click the link. Indeed every knee shall bow!

Trevin Wax's blog

2009-12-21T15:31:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody! I have added a new blog (you'll see the link on the left). It's by Trevin Wax and I've found it to be a great joy to read. Look for some more posts on the semester that just ended and CHRISTmas in the near future.

A thought on The Gospel

2009-11-30T14:16:00.000-08:00

Today as I reflect on and rest in the Gospel I'm humbled and thankful. I'm humbled by His mercy and grace displayed through the Gospel daily to my soul. I'm thankful for His kindness that brings me to repentance daily before Him.

The Gospel is that by which I saved.
The Gospel is that in which my sanctification lies.
The Gospel is that in which I have life.
It is the salve for my soul when my soul aches.
It is the that which renews my soul daily.

Thank You LORD! Thank You for Your Gospel and its all encompassing depth! Thank You LORD for the richness You grant in my life through it! When my soul aches and You apply the balm of the Gospel to my heart. When my heart rejoices you apply the same Gospel so that pride and indifference may be repented of. Thank You LORD for Your Gospel!

Bible Reading Plan

2009-11-29T21:02:00.001-08:00

One of the most amazing and fruitful works that God has wrought in my life has been through systematically reading through His Word. I'm praying about what to do next year. I'm considering using the M'Cheyne reading plan during my quiet time next year. If you have not undertaken any form of systematically reading through the Word I challenge you to do so. I posted a link on the left of the blog entitled Bible Reading Plans and there you will find a number of plans you can follow including the M'Cheyne plan. Time in His Word is essential for growth! Take up the challenge!

A thought from the early Church Fathers

2009-11-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

The fathers would insist that it is in the womb of worship and the experience of God's redemptive act in Christ that theology is born, nourished and developed. This spurs me to dwell on the fact that theology and doctrine are of necessity. Scripture must fuel our search for proper theology and doctrine which then should fuel our practice.

May our theology drive our practice! Lord, may we seek You faithfully with a heart of worship and serve You passionately driven by a love for the gospel and people. May this be fueled by proper doctrine. I love You Lord!

New Devotional Site

2009-10-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Are you struggling with your Quiet Time? Here's a new site that has some great options for you:

http://devotionalchristian.com/

Check it out and I pray that God will use this tool in your growth.

Family Pics

2009-10-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

Today we took some pictures. Jill decided that it was nice outside and we haven't taken any for a while so we all dressed in green shirts and out to take some. These are some of my favorites.

This is outside of our townhouse before leaving to go to the Seminary to take some more. It's amazing how big they are getting!

We stopped outside the library and took this one. They are on a ledge a couple of feet off the ground.

I love this one! Jill was able to get Binkley Chapel in the background!

Here is one of all of us. I'm so blessed to have such a beautiful family! The greatest privilege I've been given is being able to love and serve them! What an honor to have a wife that loves us as well as Jill does, I'm humbled to have her in my life.

Being a husband and father are the two greatest challenges in my life. The challenge is that since I'm the most prideful person I know I don't serve as well as I should. This keeps me repentant for the sin in my heart and dependent on my gracious Savior so that I can serve them. Thank You Lord for my amazing family!

Nobel Peace Prize

2009-10-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

It was announced this morning that President Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. I pray daily for our President as I have our past Presidents but isn't this a little premature since he really hasn't done anything yet? There are no accomplishments or body of work to look at. He was only President for 12 days before the Noble nominations were due last February. Here is an interesting article from a source outside of the U.S. about this:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article6867711.ece

Here is an interesting article from within the U.S.:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091009/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_obama_nobel_analysis

I honestly would have no trouble seeing our President win such a prize but that should be after something is accomplished. In light of that I will continue to do the same in praying for him, I could not imagine the pressure of his position. The depravity of our world makes his position one in which we must pray for him, this same depravity demonstrates the need of all for for Christ. Christ must be proclaimed!

Great Discussion and Conference

2009-10-06T19:59:00.000-07:00

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, where I'm a student, recently held a conference in conjunction with 9Marks ministries called "God Exposed". This conference was the first of 9 that will correspond with each of the 9Marks. The first Mark is Expostional Preaching.

There was a great panel discussion held by Baptist21 that is worth listening to:

http://www.baptisttwentyone.com/?p=3019

I enjoyed it and was challenged to dwell deeply on what was discussed. In it is discussed the subject of mulit-site churches and what the gospel is among others. May you be challenged as well.

You can see the videos of the conference here:

http://www.sebts.edu/news-resources/multimedia.aspx?type=conferences

We must preach expositionally!

Why I am a Southern Baptist (Ed Stetzer article)

2009-09-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

I will be the first to say that I'm a Christian first and foremost but by conviction I am a Southern Baptist. This is a great article that articulates points that I agree with on this.

http://betweenthetimes.com/2009/09/22/why-i-am-southern-baptist/

Ed Stetzer does a great job in presenting this.

Monogamy in Marriage

2009-09-23T14:16:00.001-07:00

Here is a great article about the impact of monogamy in the context of marriage. There is a huge impact on society and most importantly in families. Check out the article:

http://www.firstthings.com/blogs/firstthoughts/2009/09/21/how-monogamous-men-can-rescue-civilization/

What a great challenge for men to step up and serve well in their marriages and families! What a distinct honor we've been granted in doing so! Lord. I thank you for the gift of my wife and family may I serve You well before them as I serve them!

Stan's Retirement

2009-09-18T16:03:00.000-07:00

In life God grants the opportunity to meet great friends and then live both along side them and from a distance. I've been granted that with my friend Stan Frazier and his family (Kim and Zach). Stan called a couple of months ago and asked if I could be involved with his retirement ceremony from the United States Air Force. I readily agreed.

Stan flew me out to Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I arrived yesterday and the ceremony was this afternoon. I've been to a number of USAF retirement ceremonies, as we once served at a church directly across the street from Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, SC, but this one was the best.

The ceremony started with a flag folding that was amazing. I had chills going down my spine as the flag was folded and then folded again to narration with a video playing in the background. I then expressed my thanks to Stan for the privilege and honor of being there today and delivered the invocation, I almost didn't make it as I looked at Stan and Kim and a flood of emotion come falshing back to mind of the ten years of friendship we've had. Then a former commander of Stan's, who drove in especially for the ceremony stood while Stan was in a chair and recalled Stan's achievements during his enlistment. Col. Banks then asked Stan to stand and had him recite his oath of enlistment in the past tense (this was touching and there were few dry eyes). Following this he was presented with numerous awards.

Kim and Zach then joined him on stage and each was presented with a certificate of achievement. I cried through the entire ceremony. Watching Stan recite his oath of enlistment and break down then watching as Kim and Zach were presented their certificates was amazing.

Today was a distinct honor and blessing. This is some thing that I will not forget. Thank you Stan for the privilege of being here with you as you celebrate this huge milestone in life! Thank you Jill for your sacrifice and graciousness in making this happen!

A Moral Dilemna

2009-09-18T15:49:00.001-07:00

I read this early today and it broke my heart. At the same time it posed a moral dilemna that is upon us and one that will continue to arise and grow. Read the article:

http://www.albertmohler.com/2009/09/18/will-babies-with-down-syndrome-just-disappear/

It is an issue of abortion but it also poses for us where would this stop. We must decide morally where we stand and why. There is much more than politics at stake.

Who am I elevating with comments I make?

2009-09-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a great post by Voddie Bauchman. I thought it was a stark contrast recently about outbursts by celebrities. Whether Kanye West at the VMA's or Michael Jordan in his rant of an speech at the induction ceremony to the Basketball Hall of fame. We let so much "slide" for those we consider great saying "that is what made them great". The thing about it in the end is that their selfish behavior always reveals their heart. Humility shows so much more depth to the nature of the person. In terms of Bauchman's post it shows the character of David Robinson, a man transformed by his Savior.

http://www.voddiebaucham.org/vbm/Blog/Entries/2009/9/16_Be_Like_David..._Not_Like_Mike..html

Read the post and be challenged!

I turned 35 yesterday!

2009-09-13T12:44:00.001-07:00

I turned 35 yesterday! It's hard to believe that I'm that old! I truly couldn't imagine my life being any better that it has been! God has blown me away with a wife that is amazing and that I will cherish for the rest of our lives, our three children are truly gifts from Him (and the most beautiful kids I've ever seen)! I have great parents (I can truly say they are two of my trusted and closest friends) and a wonderful sister (though strongwilled at times)! My in-laws are anything but out-laws and I love them dearly! We have been blessed no matter where He has placed us to connect with and be challenged by great friends and He has blessed us to see lives impacted by His Gospel in every location! Truly humbling to consider all the He has done!

I can't wait to see what He has in store for the rest of my years! I will love and serve You with every beat of my heart that You grant! Thank You LORD!

Mr. Joe's Funeral

2009-09-13T12:26:00.000-07:00

Our hearts broke for our dear friends Merlin and Stephanie Smith along with their awesome kids Lonnie and Bethany over the past three weeks. Stpehanie's Dad, Mr. Joe, passed away this past week. Hospice had been called in and they, along with Stephanie and the family, had been ministering to him for the past three weeks. On Saturday September 5th, while we were in West Virginia with our family, Merlin called to say that it was just a matter of time until he would pass away (hospice said it would be about 48hrs). I shed many tears that day for their family and our hearts sank when we recieved the call on Monday evening.

On Tuesday Merlin called and asked if I would speak at the funeral, I was humbled. It was an honor to speak at the funeral both in remembrance of Mr. Joe and to proclaim the Gospel he had embraced only one year before his death. I treasured my time with Mr. Joe and I truly cherish his family. It was a privilege to get to know him and proclaim the Gospel to him during our time together. It's an honor to share life with the Smith's, eventhough now it is at a distance.

While there the kids were able to love on Lonnie and Bethany and I was quite proud to see them embrace them as they did. Our kids truly look up to them both and they are great role models in that they both dearly love Christ and show that love to our children.

Thank you Merlin and Stephanie for the honor of speaking at the funeral and your hospitality in the midst of grief. Thank you to our friends that we saw on Saturday for your love of our family as well.

This is a great story

2009-09-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

I must admit I'm a huge Albert Pujols fan. He is born again and handles himself with a humility that most athletes of our day do not. I'm not neccessarily a St. Louis Cardinals fan, though it would be easier to be a Cardinals fan than an Orioles nut and Pirates fan (the start of every season brings hope then the let down happens at some time later in the season, some seasons it's earlier than others), but this story really tugged at my heart and I wanted to share it.

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/stlouiscitycounty/story/A34B97533108A7C786257627000A2C90?OpenDocument

It's not the disability that matters it's the transformation that God brings about in the lives of those around those with disabilities that is truly amazing. I say this as one transformed in such a way. In college I worked for 2 1/2 years in a group home for individuals who were mentally retarded and developmentally disabled and God did a work in my heart through contact with these awesome individuals.

Chloe's 6th Birthday

2009-08-07T18:51:00.001-07:00

Today is Chloe's 6th birthday! I remember this day 6 yrs ago well. From the time Jill was induced to when the Doctor said the Jill would need a c-section to finally getting see and hold Chloe for the first time it was such an amazing day! I'll never forget certain memories about the experience.

I remember prior to the day that we went through years of frustration trying to concieve and the thoughts in the back of your mind that you may not have children. We went through tests and started the really early stages of fertility stuff. Then God graciously allowed us to conceive and it was awesome! Our church where we were serving at was ecstatic because they had been praying for us for some time!

I remember on the day itself getting wisked away from Jill and told to put on some disposable scrubs over my clothes and wait until somebody would come and get me. I put on the scrubs and waited, waited, and waited some more for somebody to come, nobody came. Finally one of the janitorial staff came through the area I was in and I asked him if he was there to take me to my wife and he looked at me as if I were crazy (I later found out that he did not understand English that well when he went and got another gentleman who then went and found somebody to take me to her). By the time I arrived in the O.R. they were about to start. It was quick and Jill and Chloe were both healthy. I got to carry Chloe to the nursery and when I arrived there were over 20 people from our church outside the big window! They erupted with cheers and we all were crying!

Fatherhood has blown me away ever since! We've obviously added more blessings to our family but each day, even the frustating ones, are such a gift! Chloe you will always be Daddy's Girl - I love you! Happy Birthday!

My prayer for Chloe is this: May she embrace Christ as Savior and be a passionate servant of The King! Thank you Lord for all of my children!

I.A. Camp (pt.3)

2009-08-06T19:16:00.000-07:00

The Gospel transforms. When someone embraces Christ as Savior it is truly amazing to see. This year at camp evidence of transformation was seen in so many ways. There are two stories I want to share of how God moved and transformation happened.

This year we had an attorney who brought some students she was working with. She is an amazing woman that loves the students she represents. She brought one boy (she brought a couple students) with her that had a hardness about him. He was there to get community service and nothing else. On Monday he wanted t0 leave but after talking with his Mom, Billy, and others (myself included). We moved him from his room to Billy's room with Billy and his son Ridge. From that night on you could see the Spirit move on him each day. On Thursday evening we had our closing service and it was there that he emabraced Christ as Savior! It was so amazing to see the transformation that God brought about from a hard kid to a young man who had embraced the Gospel! Wow! What an amazing God I serve!

Tranformation as happened in the lives of couselors. On Monday (Monday was a rough day in the sense that God was plowing the field, things really started to happen after this day) during the Jr. Counselor meeting I did something that I rarely do and that is raise my voice. I raised my voice because there was no response happening from the Jr. Counselors as the Spirit moved campers. Most of the campers are unchurched and when the Spirit moves they do not understand what it is to respond to His prompting so as counselors who know Christ as Savior we need to be open to the Spirit's prompting to go to that camper and minister to them. Also they were needing my prompting to go and separate campers that were too close (middle school hormones) and talking during worship times and this should not be needed. After the meeting and one-sided conversation God prompted something pretty awesome in one of the rooms as their Jr. Cousnselor returned. The Jr. Counselor got the attention of her room and apologized for her actions! The rest of the week all of the Jr. Cousnselors were awesome in the openness they had to the Spirit's prompting and in many cases did more than adult counselors! All of our counselors were awesome from Tuesday morning on! God used their willingness to serve to see 25 campers embrace Christ as Savior! My King is amazing!

The transformation that He works is humbling to see! It's a privilege to serve Him as He does this! I praise Him for this opportunity! WOW!

A Phone Call, A Conversation, and a Few Thoughts

2009-08-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday we were driving home from Jill's parents home and I received a phone call. The call was from one of my former youth in Sumter, SC. I had not heard from him since he graduated 5 years ago. I thought he had gone in to the service but it turns out that he had not. He had fallen out of fellowship with the Lord and had recently repented and been restored. It was amazing to hear of God's graciousness and the moving of the Spirit in his life. It was also amazing to hear that he is now 6'11'' tall! Our conversation lasted for about 15 minutes and it brought me to tears as he shared thoughts of God's use of Jill and I in his life - truly humbling! I'm so thankful that God grants calls like this one! This is the second such call this summer and through each God has stirred the affections of my heart toward Him in ways indescribable - He blows me away!

That brings me to today. I have been trying to meet up with Steve Wright all summer. He is a youth minister in Raleigh and has been there for over 11 years. He's been in youth ministry for over 20 years! He has started InQuest Ministries as well as having a great blog (see the link for The Lasting Divergence on the left). His books are well worth the read for anyone remotely considering or presently in youth work. We were able to meet up and go to lunch and talk, it was well worth the wait. He was a great encouragement and provided a wonderful challenge. Many of my thoughts on youth ministry are similar to his and to sit with someone who has given 20 years to this work full-time was awesome. I will continue to correspond with him and keep in touch, what a great meeting.

Both of these have stirred thoughts about where God will have us when I finish school next May. We have been talking about it and praying for discernment. Many see youth ministry as a stepping stone to the pulpit, others see seminary as a stepping stone to a "big" church and a payday. My heart is to be where He wants us and make sure that we are obedient to His call and leading. I have no idea of where that may be but I'm excited to see where and what that ministry is!

God has placed a deep love for His Word and Bride (the church) in my heart and getting to serve Him through each is a passion! He is using this time here at school (though it is difficult academically along with being away from full-time staff work) in great ways in my life and I'm looking forward to His continued shaping and molding this year.

Caitlyn's 4th Birthday

2009-08-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

Today is Caitlyn's 4th Birthday! Daddy's baby girl is growing up so fast! I can remember how we moved to Conway from Sumter 1/2 way through the pregnancy and how at the end of the pregnancy we were making the 90 minute drive every week for appointments. Most of all I remember being in the O.R. when Jill had the c-section and getting to hold her for the first time! Being her Daddy is a distinct honor and privilege! My prayer is that she will passionately embrace Christ as Savior and live for Him with every beautiful ounce of her being! I am humbled by the gift God has given me in Caitlyn! I love you Caitlyn.

I.A. Camp (pt.2)

2009-08-03T12:25:00.001-07:00

An amazing thing to see is how God has His hand on this camp and provides the needs that arise as the camp draws near. As of two weeks before the start of camp 70 sponsors were needed. To sponsor a camper is $175. In two weeks God in His graciousness provided for this need!

I left on Friday the 25th to go to Billy's house so that I could be there for the putt putt tournament fundraiser that was the next day which was the day before Camp started. In hand I had my fee and two full sponsorships. These sponsorships came through the giving nature of the 2 small groups we have been involved with at our present church, North Wake Church in Wake Forest, NC. While there God provided another through my sister-in-law Denise and her husband Eric. I'm so thankful for the giving nature of these people and the fact that God has placed them all in our lives.

Another humbling example of God's provision is seen in this story. On Saturday while at the tournament their where various people who came and played and participated in the silent auction. Billy, his son Ridge, his summer intern Adam, and myself formed a team and were playing on the course when Billy was approached by a woman. This woman was quite tall and slender and it could be seen that she was excited to talk to him. I talked with Billy after she left and was blown away to hear that she was a recovering addict who had come to know Christ as Savior who had come to support the camp. She did not have enough money for the $15 fee per person to play so along with her friend they put together the money the had on hand and paid the $15 to help support the efforts of the day on behalf of the camp! Wow! I was humbled to hear this!

Through donations such as these God covered the needs of the camp! It's so amazing to see Him at work!

Tim Tebow at the recent SEC Media Day

2009-08-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

At the recent SEC Media Day Tim Tebow admitted without hesitation when asked that he is a virgin. The Media was stunned by the admission yet Tebow was unfazed. In light of the developments in the death of Steve McNair and the lifestyle of many other athletes who publicly profess faith in Christ yet their personal lives show nothing of it I think its totally amazing to see someone who practices what he preaches. To see Tebow spend his summer sharing Christ in prisons and on mission trips during his spring break is something that should be commended especially in our culture. I am in no way a Gator fan but I am fully in love with Christ and when He is glorified in any way that's awesome! I will be in prayer for Tebow and his witness to remain pure in the glare of stardom.

I.A. Camp (pt.1)

2009-08-02T22:03:00.000-07:00

I'm going to write some posts about the I.A. Camp. I.A. Camp is a camp that I've been involved with for the last 4 years. It's unlike other camps. The campers are sponsored by my friend's ministry. My friend, Billy Wayne, has been in evangelism for over 20 years. He shares the gospel through Music and the Arts (which is awesome because as Christians we have abandoned the Arts in many ways and have lost a wonderful avenue for the Gospel to be expressed). His ministry is Vision Productions. I have to admit that he is unlike anyone in evanglism that I've ever met. He is nothing like the stereotypical evangelist that comes to mind (you know that suit and KJV type that screams at you until you relent). His heart for seeing lives impacted by the Gospel and especially for youth is what truly blows me away.

Vision is based out of Fall Branch, TN which is just outside of Kingsport. It is here where the offices and the Theatre are located. The theatre is Lamplight Theatre where there are performances throughout the year and where the Gospel is presented at each performance. The theatre has been in existence for 5 years and in that time there have been 5000 people who have come to know Christ as Savior through performances and events held there (this number represents those impacted by the Gospel solely at the theatre not through other endeavors wher Billy shares the Gospel). Along with the theatre Billy tours regularly performing in various venues and churches along with leading camps and other events where he can share the Gospel. He also serves as the tour Pastor for Decemberadio.

Billy has this amazing way of connecting with what he calls the "shag nasties" or those others don't reach. He takes people into his home and into his ministry and they are transformed by the love of God. This camp is like that. Most of the kids that go would not be able to go if it were not for that fact that Vision through donations pays their way to go. Along with paying their way to go there is also a clothes closet set up so that they can have clothes and shoes along with providing a backpack of school supplies. Many of the campers come from abusive backgrounds, are in trouble in some fashion, and are "unchurched". They are the type that more than likely "slip through the carcks" or, let's be honest, they don't fit the mold of what most churches will attempt to reach. It's amazing to see what happens each year as lives are transformed by the life changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This year there were 70 campers and 40 couselors. This was a change from years past in two ways: the first being that this was the most campers in years and the second being that our ratio of counselor to campers was the lowest in years (the ratio is usually as close to 1:1 as possible since the kids really need loved well with the love of God so this made things much more hectic than usual). My job changed drastically than in years past. For the previous 3 years I had been a counselor and this year I was the Camp Dean. The Dean handles issues that arise with both counselors and campers, you are part shepherd and part disciplinarian along with keeping things on schedule (which is a scary thing for me especially since I'm not always that best at sticking to a schedule and like to adjust on the fly as the Spirit moves - that is why Mary McClure was co-Dean, she is an awesome woman of God! She is also wonderfully creative with a great servant heart!).

This post is focused mainly on Vision and Billy so that a groundwork can be laid for further posts about the camp. It may sound like an advertisement and in a way it is because if it leads you to donate to the camp or sponsor a camper then that is great. I must say that I'm totally passionate about this camp and it has impacted me.

Our Night Away

2009-08-02T21:41:00.000-07:00

Jill and I recently had a chance to go out of town together. It was the first time in at least 7 years that we were able to do so. Living so far from family and having 3 children puts a damper on that. It's difficult to find someone willing to watch the kids overnight so we've always spent our time together after they've gone to bed. Our wonderful friends the Pauley's know kids, since they have 3 as well, and Wendy is supermom so they agreed to watch our 3 so we could go outta town for the night - we had watched their crew for their 10th anniversary in May.

We booked a dinner cruise on Lake Norman outside of Charlotte along with staying a night in a hotel not far from the lake. I have to admit I was like a nervously excited schoolboy on a first date! We talked and talked leading up to leaving and the weekend was beyond anything I expected! We had such a blessed time together! The time together and the cruise were amazing and I'm so thankful that God gave us this time!

We've been married for 10 years and each day gets better! That feeling of an excited schoolboy is one which I get to experience on a continual basis with Jill in my life. I have been so blessed that my mate is my best friend! Lord I thank you for Jill and the blessing she is in my life.

It's been a while

2009-07-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last big blog. Here is an update of what God has been doing over the past month:

I finished Greek 1 & 2 which was a great challenge. I learned quite a bit but I was not ready for the workload. I was in class Monday through Friday 9am to Noon May 26th through July 3rd. Each day in class would be followed by 4 to 6+ hours of study each day. It was interesting to see how even the most accurate english translation has its faults in translation. I'm going to try and keep up with what I've learned so that I can apply it as God grants opportunity to teach His Word. By completing these classes I'm now on track to graduate next May! I praise God for this opportunity and how He is shaping and molding me through it and also praise Him for Jill as I wouldn't be able to make through this without her amazing support.

This past weekend was crazy! I had not had the time I usually have with the kids and Jill so this weekend was a whirlwind of activity. On Friday, as I basked in the glow of finishing Greek 2, we went to fireworks at the local high school. We met up with some friends (the Pauley's who have 3 boys - yes, when we get together it's always a party!) and watched the fireworks. It was priceless as Chloe cried, Caitlyn cried at first and then loved, and Caleb sat on my lap wide-eyed and his heart beating a mile a minute with a big grin!

On Saturday we went to fireworks in Rolesville (a town about 5 mintues from our house). While there we met up with the Joyce's from our small group. We watched the fireworks and everything went well until Caitlyn got bit by an ant right before we left. When we arrived home Jill asked Caitlyn where put her shoes and Cailtyn answered in tears that they were still in the field where we had parked in Rolesville. Sooo after we carried in Caleb and Chloe I picked up flashlight and headed back to Rolesville with Caitlyn. After searching in the dark for 15 to 20 minutes and man with tattoos all over each arm walks up to me and asks if I was looking for a pair of sandals. He stated that he and his wife decided not to wait in traffic and walked across the field and he walked over them. He them started to help search. After searching for a while he said he couldn't remember where they were and started to walk away. At that point I thanked him for his help and continued to search. Within in 2 miniutes I stumbled into a depression where I found the sandals! Super Dad to the rescue! Seriously though, Caitlyn was starting to freak out and I had just prayed that we'd find them and we did.

On Sunday we again got to see fireworks! Before the fireworks I got to take the girls to a birthday party where we got to tour a movie theater and see how the films are set up and then watch the movie "UP". The movie was awesome and very family friendly. As soon as the movie was over we had to bolt and go meet up with Jill and Caleb (who both took naps while we were at the party) to go to a minor league baseball game - the Carolina Mudcats the AA team of the Cincinnati Reds. We had a great time with the Pauley's and the girls got to meet "Muddy" the Mudcat! Then the fireworks! 3 nights in a row! Only a few tears this time.

God has really opened my eyes to something of late. He is teaching me of humility which is a difficult thing considering that I must be the most prideful man in the world. Humility has everything to do with Him and nothing of me. Humility is most difficult for the one wronged or presumes that he has been wronged. Asking for forgiveness is the easy thing, the granting of it and following through on granting it is the truly difficult thing. Through this I have seen how amazing the gift of God through His Son Jesus truly is.

I'm excited about this upcoming weekend! Jill and I are going away together for the first time since before we had Chloe! Our friends' are watching the kids and we are going on a dinner cruise on Lake Norman just outside of Charlotte and then spending the night there. We are both pumped! Jill is the most beautiful woman I've ever met and to get this time together is a true blessing. Thank You Lord for this time we will have together!

Thought for the Day

2009-07-07T11:07:00.001-07:00

Good friends are like WEDGIES you share deep things with them and then you pick on them.

Caleb's 2nd Birthday

2009-06-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

Today, June 7th, is Caleb's 2nd Birthday! It's so hard to believe that he's 2 already! With a year in Conway (miss the youth there so much) and now almost a year in Wake Forest (love our small group) it's has gone by so fast! He had a busy day so hear are a few pics of what happened followed by a word about Caleb:

We started by going to Texas Roadhouse with our wonderful friend Susan Lepper. We let him open a present while there, of course it was a matchbox :)

Here he is flying his helicopter matchbox.

Here he is later after his nap with his "Thomas the Train" Cupcake Cake.

Here he is cheesing it up with his "Thomas the Train" toy set that Susan bought him.

Then here we all are prayer walking at Jones Dairy Elementary (Chloe's school) with members of our small group - what a little stud, serving the King on his b-day!

Caleb was our blessing in that we did not necessarily plan for #3 at the time God graciously granted him to us. It was at a time in our ministry that was rough and in the midst of that God showed how truly in control He is. God in His sovereignty has truly blessed us through him! I look at him and I'm amazed at how good God has been to us!

My prayer for Caleb is that he embraces Christ as Savior and lives passionately for him, that he is a man that loves His Word, and is not ashamed to share the Gospel. Thank you Lord for Caleb - may he be as stated in Your Word, of the Caleb he is named for, "A man of a different spirit that follows you fully" (Num.14:24)!

Semester ends, Greek begins

2009-05-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

We made it through another semester of school. 3 more classes down! I finished my finals last week and start back right away this week with 5 weeks of Greek (I'm calling it death by Greek) - one day off today for Memorial Day then Monday through Friday until July 3rd! After sitting down and looking at the classes I have left I'm pretty sure that I will be finished this time next year (will have to take some heavy class loads) - May 2010 here we come! I'm enjoying being stretched and how the Lord is growing me through this but it kicks my tail! I truly miss serving my King on staff at a local church! I do not doubt that is where He has called us to serve. It's odd here at school. There are so many that have no idea what God wants them to do and finish there degree and do not go to the mission field or to a church or to some other place of service. I dream daily of being back serving in Student Ministry or in the Pulpit. There is nothing greater than serving in that context! A wonderful friend asked me where we will go after we are done and I told him and we truly don't know. Eventhough we have no idea where He will place us after this as long as we are where He wants us we will be ecstatic - in His will no matter circumstance is where we want to be! Keep praying for us and for me as I seek to serve well in the midst of these classes and that I can learn well in Greek!

Weakness and Humility

2009-05-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

I recently read this paragraph in Greg Heisler's book "Spirit-Led Preaching" concerning weakness and humility being a help to the Empowerment of the Holy Spirit in the life of a preacher and it really resonated in my heart. It resonated in my heart because it speaks what is on my heart. Here is the paragraph:

"The preacher not only knows he is weak apart from the Holy Spirit; he also knows he has no message apart from God's Word. He never takes the credit or glory becasue he knows it belongs totally to God. The preacher knows he is a servant, not a superstar. You don't preach long before you realize how unworthy you are to be a preacher of God's Word. This is the burdensome angst of preaching, the fact that as preachers we feel so unworthy to preach, yet we are compelled by the Spirit to do so. The thought of preaching repels and compels us at the same time. When we compare our own sinfulness with the sinless one of whom we preach, we are repulsed by a sense of unworthiness. Yet when the Spirit of God takes hold of us and fires us through his Word to a red-hot passion, we are compelled to preach because we see the glory of God, and we cannot keep silent; we cannot hold it in."

Wow! This is the burdensome angst of my heart at this time...so unworthy...yet compelled. Wherever He leads us may I be a weak and humble servant that is moldable in His hands. I love you Lord.

So Beautiful

2009-05-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

Over the past seven weekends I have spent four in West Virginia. Normally this would be a great thing but three of the four trips have been of the kind you don't want to make. One was to say goodbye to my Pop Pop, another was for my Pop Pop's funeral, and then I made an emergency trip after my Dad had a heart attack. Throughout this time I have realized even more how beautiful my wife is. She is truly the most amazing woman I've ever met. She consistently models what a mother should be for our children and in her own quirky ways shows her love for me. I could not imagine what my life would be without her because through her in my life God conitnually blows me away daily! I love you Jill! Thank you Lord for placing her in my life!

Harry Kalas

2009-04-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

We moved around quite while I was growing up. I was in 4 different elementary schools in 3 states by the time I was half way through the 5th grade. Half way through the 5th grade we moved to east central Pennsylvania and that is where we stayed until after I graduated when my family moved back to West Virginia. This was a special place. I embraced Christ as Savior during this time so I will always cherish my time there.

It was during this time that I was introduced to the voice of Phillies announcer Harry Kalas. It was great living there because our cable system carried channels that followed the Phillies, Mets, Yankees, and of course thanks to Ted Turner the Braves. I have been an Orioles fan since I was little but I love sports and loved baseball growing up. So I could watch any of these four teams but as I can't stand any New York teams I gravitated toward the Phillies and Braves more (mainly due to Mike Schmidt and Harry Kalas with the Phillies and Dale Murphy with the Braves).

I loved to listen to Kalas. His voice resonated through the television. It would do this as you listened to a Phillies game or if listening to a NFL films program. It would grab you and keep you there. I will never forget his legendary calls of home runs especially Mike Schmidt's 500th home run. I will also remember his call of Terry Mulholland's no hitter he trew as a member of the Phillies in 1990. I was never the biggest Phillies fan but loved Mike Schmidt and cried when he hit that ball for his 500th home run as I listened to Kalas make the call and then his comments followed Schmidt around the bases.

I will miss Hearing his voice as he died today before getting to call the Phillies game at the Nationals. Sounds funny to post something like this but his voice was one I grew up with.

Easter

2009-04-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

Friday:
Jesus suffered, bled, and died.

Saturday:
Dead in the grave.

Sunday:
HE AROSE!

Consider Our Final Victory:
"Now I say this, bethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; not does the perishable inherit the impersihable. Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead in Christ will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, 'Death is swallowed up in victory. O Death, where is your victory? O Death, where is you sting?' The sting of death of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved bethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abouding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:50-58)

Prayer:
Thank You Lord for what we celebrate this day! Thank You for your sacrifice on our behalf as a result of our sin! May we be humbled by the work of your death, burial, and resurrection as we think of and embrace it today! We eagerly await your return and may we live steadfast, immovable, and abound in our service to You! We celebrate You this day the DAY YOU AROSE! We live in awe of You not only this day but each and every day!

10th Anniversary

2009-04-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

Friday was our 10th Anniversary! I have to admit these 10 years have been more than I ever imagined they could or would be. I do not remember what life was like before Jill and don't want to remember. I only look ahead to the rest of our lives together. Serving the Lord before her and with her before the kids and others is an honor and privilege! A friend saw my post about her and our anniversary on facebook and said it's great to see that I'm still crazy for her after all these years and I replied in this way - I'm truly, madly, deeply, crazy in love with her!

Our friends who went with us to the concert watched the kids for us so we could go on a date - so rockin! We went to a brazilian steakhouse and the food was great but just being with Jill was the best! It was great to just sit and talk. (That usually doesn't get to happen as much as we'd like with 3 kids 5 and under, it gets chaotic! It's a good chaos though!)

Lord I'm in awe of how You have given me Jill! Thank you for placing her in my life! You continue to blow me away through the glimpses of You I see and experience in her! WOW!

Chris Tomlin Concert

2009-04-11T20:34:00.000-07:00

In the midst of a difficult week with the death of my Pop Pop God gave a wonderful night at the Chris Tomlin Concert in Winston-Salem on Thursday night. We had made plans weeks ago with some wonderful friends from our small group the Joyce's. We also made plans to have a sitter for Caleb (we weren't sure if he'd make it through). The girls were sooo excited and from the moment they heard of the concert they had the countdown on!

It was an awesome time of worship! I have to admit to see the girls dancing, singing, and at times watching those around them worship was amazing. Chloe stood by me and she would look out at those in the audience with their hands raised in worship and would look at me and Jill doing the same and them catch herself at times doing the same and that was precious. When "God of this City" started it blew me away. It starts quietly and slow and then build but the girls where singning out right from the beginning and it sent chills down my spine! I looked at Chloe and she meant every word and was singing out to Jesus! I found myslef not able to sing as I welled up in praise and tears to the One who she was singing about! My prayer is that this will be the cry of her heart as she and Caitlyn and Caleb will all one day embrace the same Jesus we sang to as Savior!

Here are some pics of our night:

This is before Tomlin started playing, me with the girls and the Joyce's in the background (Chris, Stephnie, and beautiful Madeline)

Best pic we got of the stage (just believe me it's Chris Tomlin)

Worshipping with daddy's girl!

I praise you Lord for our wonderful night!

Big Week

2009-04-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Four big things are happening this week. Here they are in order of importance:

1) Our 10th Anniversary is Friday! (HOW AWESOME IS THAT! 10 YEARS WITH THE MOST AMAZING WOMAN I'VE EVER MET!)
2) We are going with the girls (we have a sitter for the little man, we don't think he'd make it through the drive and concert) and some great friends (and their beautiful little daughter) to a Chris Tomlin concert on Thursday (The girls are sooo pumped! We can't wait to see them at the concert! They love Tomlin - God of this City is their favorite song!)
3) I'm prayerfully filling out the Pastoral Internship Application to be a part of the progam at our church starting next fall (praying that I'm accepted and that God will use it as a time of challenge and refining)
4) It's Easter Break for me and Caitlyn from school - my breaks never seem to be times of refreshing though, case in point Pop Pop's death.

#1 is definitely the biggest of the 4! I'll be posting more about this later! Be in prayer for these! Please know that I'm truly indebted to all of you who are and do pray for me and the family!

A Long Couple of Weeks

2009-04-07T07:35:00.000-07:00

I greatly appreciate your prayers over these past weeks. My Pop Pop (granddad on my Mom's side) passed away last Thursday. We spent the past two weekends in Pocahontas County West Virginia where he was from and where my Mom is related to half the county.

Our first weekend in West Virginia was spent running back and forth to the small hospital (the only hospital within 40 to 50 miles) where Pop Pop was a patient. He had not seen the kids before and was wanting to see them badly. We have lived close to 10 hours away from our family in seeking to be obedient to God's call on our lives to ministry since the kids were born and we would spend our vacations with our parents. Our decision was not based on anything malicious toward my Pop Pop but on our wanting our parents to have a direct influence in the kids lives. Pocahontas County lies in the Mountains and is a hard three to four hour drive away from either of our parents. I invited him to come to see us but he was unable due to age difficulties. Over the past year especially God had restored our relationship and I'm so thankful for that. It has been amazing to hear him say I love you numerous times in our numerous conversations on the phone over this past year.

When we arrived that Saturday at the hospital we were not sure of what his condition would be. When we entered the room he was alert. He looked and saw the kids and lit up! I will never forget seeing the life in his eyes as he looked at them! He then extended his hands to the girls and they each grabbed one and they exchanged caresses. It was as if he had been waiting to see them. The girls are usually shy at first contact but it was as if they knew this was a special moment as well. The same I love you that I had heard over the past year is what they heard as well. I will cherish that visit of the many that weekend for the rest of my life!

After that special visit his health deteriorated quickly. Later that day his morphine was increased and that continued throughout that weekend and through the week. We received a call from my Mom on Thursday evening saying that he was gone. We then made plans for this past weekend to go back.

We arrived back on Saturday. On Sunday morning we went to his home church. It was a wonderful church. We then spent the day with family. My Mom has two brothers and we got to see each. The kids loved seeing everybody especially their Aunt Mary Beth and cousin Elizabeth.

The funeral was Monday morning. Jill was amazing. She watched our three and one of my sister's two chilldren in a back room during the viewing, which immediately proceeded the funeral and the funeral service itself. This allowed both me and my sister to be with our family. The service itself was a one in which the gospel was presented and Christ honored. My Mom got up and spoke and did an amazing job. Tears were shed but for me there was comfort found in the gospel that was presented during the service and had been embraced by my Pop. The funeral home was packed and chairs had to be added which was amazing in that it was a Monday morning viewing and service - a great testimony to a life lived.

During the viewing I watched my parents interact with family and others. The weird little "quirks" that drove me crazy as a teenager about Mom and Dad I noticed as they interacted. Those same "quirks" did not dirve me crazy at all in watching them that morning. They are things that I have grown to respect and love now. I leaned over to my sister during the service and said "even with their 'quirks' they are awesome" and she readily agreed. Reflection is never a bad thing especially as I consider how blessed I am. Blessed to have that last special moment with Pop Pop, to the time with my family this past weekend, and most importantly in being able to reflect on the gospel that Pop Pop had embraced.

Thanks for lifting us up before the throne during these past weeks...

A Blessed Week

2009-03-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

This past week was such a blessing. Earlier this week I got to go with Chloe on her field trip and had a great time with her and those on the trip. We went to downtown Wake Forest and visited a number of places. We started at an educational store, then we went to the police station, then to a hardware store (Chloe wasn't a big fan), then to a pizza place where the class got to help make a pizza for lunch, and finally to the fire station. Throughout the day Chloe and I got to walk hand-in-hand along the streets of town and talk about whatever she wanted to chit-chat about. The places visited were nice but just spending time with Chloe was the greatest. She is growing into an amazing young lady!

Speaking of the growth of Chloe I found myself in tears praising the Lord this weekend about how she handled when Caitlyn got sick. We were visiting some wonderful friends, Fred & Wendy Pauley, and things were going great until right before we left. Caitlyn puked on the carpet! We got it cleaned up and were hoping that would be all that would happen. We had to stop on the way home at Wal Mart to pick up some things for church this morning. While there Jill stayed in the van with the kids and I ran in. While gone it happened again! We got home and you guessed it it happened one more time!

What brought me to tears was that throughout this time Chloe was so concerned for Caitlyn. As we were leaving the Pauley's she kept asking to pray. We got in the van and prayed for her and Chloe as we prayed was nodding in agreement just believing with all her heart that the Lord was going to make Caitlyn feel better. While loading into the van Jill gave a bag to Caitlyn in case she would feel sick again. When she did get sick Chloe was leaning over trying to help her with the bag as she was puking all the while trying to console her. After we arrived home Chloe was running all over the house asking for a piece of paper so I gave her a piece and she ran upstairs. She then made Caitlyn a card! It was so cool to see how she was so compassionate to Caitlyn. She always says she wants to be a nurse like her Mommy to help people like Mommy does at work. She will be a great nurse as this continues to develop in her. I pray that Jill and I can continue to foster this growth in her and that she will embrace Jesus as her Savior and use this to serve Him!

I thank you Lord for days such as these this week! I thank you for my family and the growth that I see in them! May I be a man of God that can model Chirst for them and may they embrace you as Savior! I Love You!

Newsboys

2009-03-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

For those of us who love Christian Music the Newsboys would be on the Mt. Rushmore of the genre. I have just read that Peter Furler who no longer be fronting the band and Michael Tait will be the new frontman! Yes, that's the the same Michael Tait formerly of another Mt. Rushmore member namely DC Talk! Wow! With over 20 #1 singles and countless amazing albums the Newsboys just keep rollin'!

Check out the article on www.jesusfreakhideout.com about the transition. I can't wait to here what they will produce together! As you can tell I'm a big fan!

Our Big Night

2009-03-03T20:03:00.000-08:00

Last night was a big night for us. Caleb slept in a "big boy" bed for the first time last night! It's a really cool feeling to see the little man all cuddled up in the bed yet kind of sad at the same time. We now have no kids in a crib! No, there is not another on the way - this is the first time that during the winter of an odd number year that Jill hasn't been pregnant since 2001!

It really is mind blowing with the ways God has been so gracious to us throughout the years! Three awesome kids and almost 10 yrs of marriage - our 10th anniversary is one month away!

God I praise you for my wife, my children, and the life you've given me in You! I can't help but to be in awe of You! I love You and I will serve You all of my days!

Chloe's Surgery

2009-02-28T20:18:00.000-08:00

This was a big week for us. Chloe had surgery on Thursday. This was our first surgery as parents. She had tubes placed in her ears, her adenoids out, and an allergy test. Throughout the week she did so well and on the day of the surgery I thought this might change but it was amazing how she handled everything - I was so proud of her!

On Thursday we arrived at WakeMed, which is the hospital where Jill works, and I received a call from my best friend, Steve, saying he was on the way. Steve is a Pastor in Fayetteville, NC about 90 minutes or so from us. This was a great surprise that we appreciated and Chloe loved. She loves her "Uncle Steve"!

Once we got back into the pre-op area Chloe got her gown and a bed. The gown was to small and she left her pants on because she said that she "didn't want her bootie or panties showing" - I was so proud of my modest little girl :). After getting a new gown and a warm blanket she for the first and only time showed some nervousness and started to cry. As she cried I took my hand and caressed her cheek, she then grabbed my hand and pulled me in and burrowed her head into my arm and shoulder. At this point I dropped to my knees and cried with her whispering in her ears that the Lord is in control and that I loved her. She then stopped crying and I did too and was fine throughout the rest of the day.

After receiving her "goofy shot", which did affect her, she started to act a little funny but not too bad. Dr. Holmes came in and we had a word of prayer with him and Chloe and then we waited unitl they took her back. After the surgery he came out and informed us that all went well, he was surprised by the amount of thick fluid he had to suck out but that other than that he was pleased.

In recovery she did really well. It didn't take long and we were ready to go home. On the way out I took a pic of her in her Mommy's arms at the front door before getting into the van. I will say that Jill didn't want me to do it but is now glad I did. Looking at this pic now brings a flood of emotions because it was just like the pic we took when we left the hospital with her - it's amazing how many thoughts can rush through your mind in a holy instant of blessing like that, she's only 5 but soo many instant pics flooded in! See our family blog and the pics - the link is on the left.

I was so thankful for the calls, texts, and for those who hit us up on facebook checking on Chloe! I was definitely thankful for the fact that Steve was there with us! But most of all I'm thankful for God's graciousness throughout this week and day! I praise Him for all of this!

A thought on bigotry, the Oscars, and True Hope

2009-02-24T08:50:00.000-08:00

I happened to catch a small protion of the Oscars and saw Sean Penn accept his Oscar. During his acceptance speech he "wagged his finger" and chastised all in California who voted against homosexual marriage along with any and all in our country that oppose it. I found it funny that for someone so "accepting" and "open" that his comments were the height of bigotry. For those on the left to through massive bombs of hatred and then call anyone with a differing opinion a bigot is quite hypocritical.

Two things on equal rights popped into my mind as I listened:
1) I fully support equal rights. For example, I would have marched in the 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement, if I were alive, side by side with African-Americans fighting for their rights. Yet, this is entirely different than espousing homosexual rights, one is an issue of God-given pigmentation while the other is of a self-made choice.
2) God's view of us all is the same. We are all sinners in need of a Savior. From the racist, to the homosexual, to the married father of three I am sin is sin and its an ugly, foul thing. Our need then is not for equality but for salvation. The answer to our need is found only in Christ.

In this time of division politically, racially, and over issues of choice unity is not found in us but in Him. True hope is hope in Him. The hope we find in Him is one that does not disappoint (Rom.5:5).

Our 1st Surgery

2009-02-11T16:00:00.001-08:00

We've been blessed with our three children. So far God has been gracious and they've all had good health. On February 26th we will experience a first for us, Chloe will be having surgery to remove her adnoids and place tubes in her ears. It took 30 seconds in the ENT's office today, during which he looked in each ear, for him to say that is what is needed. With my big mouth I immediately blurted out "you only need 30 seconds to know that for sure?!". The Doctor's response was to point at his gray, balding hair and say, "trust me I know." My response was, "the Bible says that is a crown and that I wasn't meaning to sound sarcastic." His follow up was interesting, "just like you can look at Psalm 23 and know what it's about I know this because I see it everyday and it will be fine." That was an interesting exchange and it calmed me some. Soooo...we will be going with her on the 26th for her surgery!

We got to this point because she has been having trouble with her hearing for a little while now. She failed her school hearing test and it was the same at the pediatrician when they followed up. If she has her back turned she doesn't hear us well and when she watches tv she asks for the sound to be turned up. All of this is due to fluid build up in her ears. The heartbreaking thing today for me was watching her take her hearing test and seeing that she was unable to hear some of what was said while she was really trying to concentrate on listening.

A friend said, in response to an email prayer request I sent, that this procedure will be harder on us than on her and I believe she's right. Our prayer is that God uses this to grant her better hearing and that the procedure and recovery go smoothly. Please be in prayer for her and us!

To what do you give a Second Thought?

2009-02-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

As I've stated beofre Jill and I are reading through the Bible in a Year and each day has a devotion related to something from the Scripture read that day. Here is a something that really jumped all over me during my quiet time yesterday (2/9):
"The Second Thought"
My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings. Don't lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. - Prov.4:20-21
"To get the best out of life," said Pascal, "great matters have to be given a second thought." Meditation is just that - giving biblical truths a second thought. If you have been thinking that the best way to get the best out of the Bible is by reading it, studying it, or memorizing it, then I urge you to think again. I have found that the way to get the best our of the Bible is by meditating on it.
Reading, studying, and memorizing the Bible are, in the main, intellectual exercises which bring spiritual results. Meditation is not primarily an intellectual exercise but a devotional exercise, a way by which the Word of God is carried in to the spiritual digestive system so that it can be translated into spiritual nourishment and energy.

What is it you give a second thought to? Is it your family, your bills, or your health? All these are noble and are things that we should seek to glorify Him in yet His Truth must be what dominates your thoughts! I've been challenged of late in terms of my reading, studying, and especially memorizing God Word yet if they aren't used in meditation then they are a intellectual exercise. He deserves my second thought, along with my first, third, fourth...! May He challenge your heart as He has mine in this!

Freedom from the effects of Smiles and Frowns

2009-02-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

I recently read "What's wrong with Preaching Today?" by A.N. Martin. The following is a quote from this book:
"One of the elements of powerful preaching is preaching as a man liberated. Liberated from what? From the ensnaring effects of the fear of men. You are never free to be an instrument of blessing to your people unless you are free from the effects of their smiles and their frowns. People know when you can be bought by their smiles and beaten by their frowns. It will not take them long to discern whether or not you are a man who is not affected either by their smiles or their frowns. Such a man is a free man in Christ."

Wow! If only there were who would preach with such freedom! God has blessed recently and provided two opportunities to preach inthe past three weeks and this has become evident to me. Each time their was a freedom and in this freedom the proclamation of His Word flowed in a powerful Spirit empowered way.

I have seen those who preach to felt needs and bring glory to their ministry. They survive where they are yet do not leave lives impacted. May I always from this day forward seek to glorify Him in all things especially in proclaiming His Word to others!

So the question we must consider is: are we free from the effects of the smiles and frowns around us or are we glorifying Him in all we do? May He so saturate us that He is all that matters!

Thoughts on a Super Bowl Weekend

2009-02-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

This weekend was a great weekend cap off by a game for the ages. Saturday started off on quite a sad note. I received a call from my Mom about my Pop Pop, my 86 year old grandfather. He recently had bloodwork and the results were not good - cancer. This call was followed by a call I placed to my Uncle as we discussed Pop Pop's health and had prayer. We are unsure of what the upcoming days will hold but will be consistent in lifting up this situation in prayer. To top off the morning while on the phone Caleb grabbed my brand new glasses (they were two days old) and broke them. Thankfully, I was able to take my glasses to where I had purchased them and get them fixed. From there we attended Chloe's Upward game and then left for Fayetteville, NC.

We arrived in Fayetteville and got to visit with our dear friends Steve and Jennifer Lloyd. We were there because God had opened the door to preach at the church where Steve is the Pastor, Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, for their annual Men's Day. It's always great to spend time with Steve. God has blessed me to have an amazing man of God in my life such as Steve, I'm honored to call my best friend.

Sunday Morning was great. Steve's church was wonderful. I know that my small group from North Wake and many friends were praying because while preaching there was a freedom while in the pulpit. Preaching is addictive! I love it! There is no doubt that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life! I have no idea if that will be in the pulpit or with youth but either way God has placed a burning passion to share His Word!

We returned on Sunday afternoon. We stopped at Sam's Club to "cook" some things (some wings and a huge pillsbury brownie) for our small group Super Bowl Party then we went to the Party and had a wonderful time. We left during the third quarter because Jill was almost out on her feet and the kids were tired from the busy weekend. We arrived home in time to see the fourth quarter of an amazing game with a jaw dropping ending. I was on the fence, as a lifelong Redskins fan, about who I wanted to win and when Larry Fitzgerald ran away from everbody and scored and then the Steelers started off their final drive with a holding penalty I thought it was over. The Ben took over! Santonio Holmes made some great plays but Ben should have been the MVP. The Steelers play ugly but when the game is on the line Big Ben steps up! It was a game for the ages!

What a roller coaster of emotions this weekend. From Saturday's news to Sunday morning's joy and freedom in the pulpit to Sunday evening's game it was quite a few days. Through it all God showed Himself to be faithful and I praise Him for it!

Practical Pointers from Alistair Begg

2009-01-30T11:08:00.000-08:00

I recently read the short book/booklet by Alistair Begg "Preaching for God's Glory". Chapter 5 was entitled "Practical Pointers" and was quite challenging for me. These are pointers that anyone who has the privilege of preaching should remember. They involve what we should do in terms of preparation for preaching and spending time with Him and the text. Here are his five points:

1) Think yourself empty - if we do not become thinking pastors, we are unlikely to have thinking congregations.

2) Read yourself full - the pastor should read widely and regualrly.

3) Write yourself clear - freedom of delivery in the pulpit depends upon careful organization in the study, we must put our thoughts down clearly.

4) Pray yourself hot - there is no chance of fire in the pews if there is an iceberg in the pulpit; and without personal prayer and communion with God during the preparation stages, the pulpit will be cold.

5) Be yourself, but don't preach yourself - there is nothing quite so ridiculous as the affected tone and adopted of the preacher who wishes he was someone else. He further states, self-forgetfulness is of vital importance. We cannot make much of ourselves and much of the Lord Jesus Christ simiultaneously. A good teacher clears the way, declares the way, and then gets out of the way.

May we take these practical pointers to heart in our preparation, time spent with Him, and as we deliver that which He has given! What an honor it is! What a responsibility! My prayer is that He is glorified throughout our preapration and delivery!

Ted Haggard

2009-01-27T08:17:00.000-08:00

In 2006 Ted Haggard was the Pastor of New Life Church in Colorado. His church was one of over 10,000. He was a staunch supporter of traditional marriage. What was unknown was that he had been having homosexual encounters with a male prostitute while using meth to enhance the experience. All the while leading his megachurch.

When the scandal broke the overseers/elders of his church asked him to step down and gave him a $100,000 severance package. He moved to Arizona where he sought counseling/therapy. What he received was heartbreaking. He went to a secular counselor and credits a secular self-help book for his deliverance during the past two years. He states that the counsel he received from those who were christians was not helpful and often judgmental.

He has a documentary that will be aired on HBO and will be on many shows including Oprah over upcoming weeks. I will be praying for Mr. Haggard. My prayer is that he finds True Counsel in the very Word he proclaimed for so long. The freedom he is seeking will only be found through True Repentance. You can find more about this at www.challies.com (link on the left as well) where a link is posted to the Washington Post article entitled "Trial by Fury" under Tim Challies' Ala Carte (1/27) post.

Bible Reading, former President Bush, and us

2009-01-23T22:38:00.000-08:00

I just read a great post by Steve Wright on his blog The Lasting Divergence (see link on the left). The post deals with now former President Bush and his reading habits. President Bush would read the Bible through in a year along with a devotional every year. On top of that he would read at least 40 books a year. In 2006 he read 95 books. Wow! That astounded me!

Most Christians will not make time to read one verse let alone one chapter in the Bible a day and the leader of the free world would read through the Bible plus the additional 40+ books a year! We wonder why most churhces are stagnant and most Christians lives are the same - we do not treasure the Treasure we've been given in His Word! Whether its the Preacher who thinks to himself I've studied for my sermon for hours today, the Mom who says I'm too busy with the kids and the juggling of schedules, to the Dad who says I have too much to do, or the teenager whose apathy toward the Word shows in a life lacking any vibrancy, the problem lies solely with us. In our zeal to accomplish for ourselves and others we show no zeal for the very One who deserves it!

Let me ask you the same questions I've asked myself since being challenged by the post and accompanying Wall Street Journal article (link located in the post): Where is your zeal for His Word? Do I let my schedule dominate my Quiet Time? Do I truly treasure His Word as I should? Regretfully I found myself lacking when confronted by these questions - what about you?

My challenge is simple treasure His Word! Read it, cherish it, let it saturate your soul! Seek the counsel that only it gives! I fervently believe that a Bible Reading Plan should be apart of our lives on a consistent basis take on the challenge! Oh Lord Jesus forgive me for not wholly doing this with consistency in my life...may You be my treasure and may I discover the riches of that treasure in Your Word daily!

Holy Hip Hop

2009-01-21T16:00:00.000-08:00

When I was in middle school I was introduced to rap music. I can remember running into the house and turning on the television to watch "Yo! MTV Raps" trying to do the Ed Lover Dance and watching all the videos. There was something about the music and the way that the lyrics were delivered always stirred me. I've always had this love for rap music (my wife can't stand this) though it's changed the years in terms of what I've listened to I still listen to it.

What started with Big Daddy Kane, Eric B. & Rakim, and others has changed now to christian artists such as G.R.I.T.S., Lecrae, & The Cross Movement. I must say that over the past 5 to 10 years christian hip hop has improved drastically. The lyrical content that is now coming from artists is theologically solid and relevant. It's exciting to see how God is using this form of music.

I state this to point out a blogpsot on the Desiring God Blog (see the link on the left) entitled "Holy Hip Hop" where Thabiti Anyabwile speaks of about hip hop in the new resurgence in black theology. It was quite interesting and I pray that you find it the same.

A thought on history

2009-01-20T20:24:00.000-08:00

Watching the inaugeration today caused me to pause and take in what was taking place. To see an African-American President sworn in was quite amazing and to watch the faces of those in attendance, especially those of African-American Senior Citizens, captivated my heart. Thinking of what has happened in the midst of their lifetime socially was emotional. I will be praying for President Obama as he leads our country.

I was impressed by the place of this day socially and one other thing impressed me and that was the grace with which now former President Bush handled this transition of power. I remember when he came into office that former President Clinton's farewell seemed to be set to rival the inaugeration and in poor taste. This transition was one in which cooperation and grace was exhibited, even to his private farewell, and that impressed me.

I heard the word coronation used by a commentator over the past few days and this also caused me to pause but in a much different way. This word is one the should be used sparingly toward any man if used at all. There is a King and He will return. His death, burial, resurection, and ascension served as His Coronation. This King is Jesus!

In this time where ideology separates and harsh rhetoric destroys from the left and the right. May those who know the King serve Him passionately and may He have full reign in our hearts! May we take advantage of every opportunity to share Him with neighbors, friends, co-workers, and relatives! True unity is found only in Him! There is no issue of race or party in Him! I praise You King Jesus for this!

The closing prayer found in the devotion that follows my Scripture reading for the day yesterday is fitting to grant us the focus we need on such a momentous day: "O Father, how can I ever thank You that the work of salvation is complete? Nothing more needs to be done than has been done. Your Coronation spells it out in the clearest of terms. I am so deeply, deeply grateful. Amen." For true change to happen we must be changed by the King through the salvation He alone offers.

THE GREAT SNOWSTORM!

2009-01-20T07:09:00.000-08:00

All day yesterday we heard warnings of the great snowstorm coming our way - 2 to 4 inches in the south are like a foot or more in the north. I checked the county schools website last night and saw that school was cancelled by 9:30pm - now I was considering breaking into one of those "when I was a kid" stories of growing up in the north here but I'll spare you the details of snow, freezing weather, abusive parents making us wait for the bus while we battled frostbite and snowmonsters and went bravely to school (I'll just say we didn't get out of school that often and most of the time we prayed for a delay). Soooo, when Jill got home from work she woke us up to show us the snow and we bundled up the kids to go outside. Caleb and Caitlyn went outside and Chloe stayed inside because she is still not feeling well. Here are some pics of there 15 minute adventure - that's how long the kids lasted before the wind and snow got to them!

Caleb looked hilarious in his snowsuit! When Jill put it on him with snowboots he wobbled all over the house falling down so we changed him into sneakers and he was able to manuever - when he was wobbling around he looked just like Ralphy's little brother Randy in "A Christmas Story", we were laughing so hard it hurt!

Here's Caleb after trying to imitate Jill doing a snow angel! He had a blast his first time in the snow! Jill was laughing her head off the whole time she was doing the snow angel - it was hilarious!

It took some coaxing to get Caitlyn off the porch but here she is venturing out!

Caitlyn finally went and "played" a little! None of the kids have seen much snow, especially being born in South Carolina! Living just outside of the great ski resort of Myrtle Beach will hamper getting to see snow :)!

Here's one of me and my little man! STUDS!

After this pic Caleb licked some of the snow off of his mitten and looked at me and smiled I then whispered in his ear that "my Father made that"...He is so good to us and moments like this with family remind me of that! I praise You for the snow today and the enjoyment is brings! I praise You for my family to enjoy it with!

Mount Olivet Baptist Church

2009-01-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

This morning God gave the opportunity to preach at Mount Olivet Baptist Church in Raleigh this morning. The morning started off rough with Chloe waking up a fever of around 102. With her fever, Caleb recovering from the Croup, and Caitlyn feeling a little horse Jill stayed home with them while I went to preach. It's always a naked feeling without the family, especially Jill, with me. The great part about the morning was that Chloe really wanted to go to church. She was upset that she couldn't go so Jill and I each talked with her and let her know that she needed to stay home so that God could help her feel better. While I did feel bad for her it was amazing to see her fight to go to church and then get genuinely upset about not being able to go - I praise God for that being fostered in her. After our conversation Jill and I were going to pray but before beginning she asked Caitlyn if she would pray for her big sister with us. Caitlyn was so precious in praying for her sister and while we were praying I was holding Chloe's hand and she was squeezing and squeezing it just believing that God would heal her - they taught me a lesson about faith before I got to share mine!

The church was easy enough to find (thanks to Jill's CHRISTmas present - her new GPS). When I arrived I was impressed with their facilities. The physical structure of the church is quite big. In the service itself there were only about 30 people but I must admit I really enjoyed the service. There was a freedom to worship and I sensed that same freedom when preaching. The people where very warm and there where some who responded during the invitation for various needs. I had a great time with them and pray that God will open the door to return.

As for the sermon I preached from Matthew 26:1-16. Finding prep time while watching the kids is not always that easy but God blessed this week with two extended times of study that were quite fruitful. I talked about the cost of sacrifice and betrayal from the following outline:
I. The deception of betrayal. (v.1-5)
II. The nature of sacrifice. (v.6-13)
III. The price of betrayal. (v.14-16)
I enjoyed the prep and pray that God blessed the delivery. I'm really starting to love getting to preach whether to adults or youth. Getting to share is like "a fire in my bones".

In terms of prep there were two tools other than my Bible that were extremely helpful. The first was my Harmony of the Gospels. It was great to see where these verses fit chronologically during the Passion Week. The second was The Gospel According to Matthew from the Pillar New Testament Commentary Series by Leon Morris. I learned of this commentary through the list Danny Akin has on his site (see link on the left) entitled "How to build a Theological Library". These both provided great insight into the text.

I praise Him for this day and opportunity!

Quiet Time

2009-01-17T18:44:00.000-08:00

This year Jill and I are reading through the Bible in a year. I'm excited to be doing this again and for the first time with Jill. I had done this during my Quiet Time for 6 yrs then this past year I went through a couple devotionals and the New Testament but it was not as fruitful as reading through the Bible in a year had been. We are using the Every Day With Jesus Bible: A One-Year Reading Bible (HCSB). The format is a reading from the Old and New Teastaments along with sections of a Psalm and a Proverb then a devotion follows up the reading. I have greatly enjoyed this so far and look forward to the rest of the year.

A great challenge today came in the closing prayer of the devotion.
"O Father, help me come to the quiet time expectantly - expectancy that here my weakness shall become strength, my doubt become faith, my fears become courage, and my sin become redemption. I ask this for Your Name's sake. Amen."

May I always approach my time with You with expectancy! Father may I be repentant when when I do not do so. Create in me a heart of expectancy that longs for You! This is the cry of my heart today - may it be the same for us all!

Why Servant Heart?

2009-01-16T18:12:00.001-08:00

I choose Servant Heart as the title of my blog for a couple of reasons. After rededicating my life to the Lord in 1993 during the spring semester of my first year of college at Marshall University I heard someone say "he has such a servant heart" in terms of an amazing compliment given to a friend. From the time on those words have resonated in my heart and God has embedded them there as a challenge to me to strive to develop in my life and the lives of those around me. Upon coming to grips with a call to ministry in 1994 I have sought to Develop Servant Hearts in every context He has placed me. As for what I expect from this endeavor I pray that God will use this as an outlet for me and resource for others.