Not Your Typical Church Service

Tonight's church service was definitely not run-of-the-mill. After some pretty touching worship music, pastor John let loose with a new ministry series called "Modern Family" (yes, the styling theme was patterned after this Modern Family). It was funny! Well, the content wasn't necessarily funny, but some of the video "props" and comments that he employed were hysterical.



It was refreshing to begin to shift our focus back to the family, where it belongs. Our generation (I'm speaking to Gen X'ers, specifically) is largely responsible for the dis-integration of the modern family, through the advent of technology. Think about it; have you ever sent a text message to your child to come downstairs for dinner? Imagine being in the same house- not more than 50 linear feet away, yet we're willing to broadcast a string of bits to space and back, before we actually make the effort to walk down the hall and speak to them (guilty).

A study conducted by Nielsen a few years ago indicated that there are now more television screens in the average American home, than there are people. Add in arcade quality gaming consoles, ubiquitous Internet connectivity and an interactive touch screen on everything from your phone, to your refrigerator, and it's no surprise that humanity is becoming trapped in a series of tubes (RIP, Sen. Ted Stevens). Very sad.

Let's make it a point to bring back family dinners, game night and watching movies together. Let's go for walks and have talks about the things that really matter.



Prior to delivering the message, a couple of people who are heavily invested in City Vibe, joined pastor John on stage. As the congregation was instructed to prepare their tithes and offerings, the men began to talk a little bit about City Vibe, and the programs that were under way to tangibly reach out to the homeless. One of the ingenious ways of doing this was through the creativity of a simple aluminum burner. For only a few cents' worth of denatured alcohol, or methanol, the recipient is able to boil water in the single serving "pot", or heat up the beverage or meal of their choice. In fact, a cup of coffee was prepared within a couple of minutes on stage, as part of the demonstration.

After services were over, I simply had to get a closer look at these primitive "stoves". I'm a techie by nature, so I wanted to "kick the tires" and see how they worked. The recycled aluminum burner (similar to this design) was crafted with a special pressure-jig, allowing for rapid, relative mass-production. In fact, I was told by one of the men, that he had built over 800 such burners, targeted at helping the homeless in our local communities. I was impressed. This is truly family helping family, in the name of Jesus Christ.



The kits displayed are useful for hiking, fishing and camping trips, and of course for giving someone less fortunate a source of heat, a simple meal, or warm cup of coffee. Each kit sells for $15, and includes the following items:

1 - alcohol stove
1 - 4 oz. fuel bottle
1 - 1 oz. measuring cup (1 oz. yields approximately 10 minutes' burn time)
1 - wind screen
1 - cook pot
1 - pot holder
1 - twist lock plastic container

All proceeds from these kits are reinvested into the City Vibe project. To find out more information about these kits, or to donate items and render your services, contact Craig (craig.oviatt AT wsfc.org), Dennis, or Linda (cityvibe AT wsfc.org).

Good Night

Please Pray For My Wife's Arm

It's been four days since my wife visited the doctor's office for a glucose blood test. As a result of a flubbed blood sampling, her arm has been in excruciating pain, and rendered unusable for days. After an ultrasound and additional visits to the doctor's office, the root cause of her pain is believed to be an infection.

How did they manage that?

At least she's begun the process of taking some pretty strong antibiotics tonight. I pray they begin to help her through the healing process. "Lord, please bless my wife. Please touch her arm with your healing power and make her whole once again. Amen"

Luke 10:33-35 (The Message)

33-35"A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man's condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I'll pay you on my way back.'

Good Night

My Patriotic Sweetheart

My daughter took part in a school play this evening. The topic: The United States of America. These elementary school children were singing and reciting lines they'd memorized, to the tune of Yankee Doodle and our National Anthem. George Washington, Betsy Ross, Francis Scott Key, the Bald Eagle, the Statue of Libery, the American Flag and our Constitution were accounted for among the actors and their props. It was great- we are so proud!

Good Bless America,

Good Night

Today Wasn't Great

Today wasn't a great day. My wife and I were amid some painful disagreements, which left us both unhappy and hurting. When we fight (which isn't often), it becomes all-encompassing. Everything feels wrong; it's difficult to think, work or feel connected to each other, or the Lord. While the exchanges in dialogue have largely calmed down this evening, there are still some things that need to be sorted out. Even when we don't see eye to eye, I'm certain my wife's the greatest on the planet.

Ephesians 4:26 (The Message)

26 Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.

Good Night

Thank God My Wife Is Alright

As I got the kids off to school yesterday, my wife went in for some blood tests, in order to address some minor concerns. Halfway through the two-hour ordeal, she was poked and prodded every 30 minutes, the staff in charge of retrieving her blood samples was rotated out, and a new medical technician took over this role.

Unfortunately, the newbie had so little experience, that a supervisor was required in order to perform the work. With the precision of a shotgun and grace of a jackhammer, he subjected my poor wife to multiple punctures and pain (unbeknown at the time, damaged nerves). Once the testing was complete, my wife was left with an unusable right arm; she couldn't grip, lift or articulate it. Overnight, things didn't get any better.

As today wore on, her pain never subsided. In lieu of heading in to work, she called the doctor's office to set up an appointment to be seen. The concern was a potential blood clot, and the complications that could arise from one that could potentially be on the move were horrifying. Not really knowing what was going on was even worse. After scheduling an ultrasound at the hospital (the ultrasound technician at the clinic wasn't available today- of course), my wife finally had her arm analyzed.

Thankfully, the scan revealed that there were no blood clots, and no other permanent indicators of damage. Although the official cause of her pain was identified as nerve damage and blood vessel swelling, it's comforting to know that there should be no long term detrimental effects of the medical tech's actions. My only regret is that this needless accident caused my wife some undeserved pain.

Thank God she's going to be alright!

Good Night

Change Of Pace

The other day, I mentioned that changes are coming to the blog, but I wasn't certain as to what that would entail. The experiences of the past year and a half have proven that it's possible to set a goal and actually accomplish it. Originally, the goal was to publish 365 consecutive entries. However, we've stuck together through nearly 500 posts (tonight is number 484)!

The plan is to walk through the next couple of weeks, posting every night as we've been doing from the beginning. However, after that point, I'll reduce the number of new posts to a weekly basis, or whenever the Lord stirs my spirit.

Thanks for reading,

Good Night

Happy Easter

He has RISEN!

Forget the bunnies, candy, eggs or other distractions this holiday may bring. Easter is founded on the death, burial and resurrection of our lord, Jesus Christ. Plain and simple; Easter is one of the two most important holidays (Christmas being the other) in a Christian's life. So, let's remember why we're celebrating, and give thanks for the work Jesus accomplished through His work on the cross.

Good Night

Jesus Is Alive

This evening's Easter services at church were amazing. Hundreds of men, women and children participated in worship, and celebrated the good news that Jesus is alive!

And, he's coming back for you and me!

1 Corinthians 15:12-15 (The Message)

Now, let me ask you something profound yet troubling. If you became believers because you trusted the proclamation that Christ is alive, risen from the dead, how can you let people say that there is no such thing as a resurrection? If there's no resurrection, there's no living Christ. And face it—if there's no resurrection for Christ, everything we've told you is smoke and mirrors, and everything you've staked your life on is smoke and mirrors. Not only that, but we would be guilty of telling a string of barefaced lies about God, all these affidavits we passed on to you verifying that God raised up Christ—sheer fabrications, if there's no resurrection.

John 14:1-4 (The Message)

1-4 "Don't let this throw you. You trust God, don't you? Trust me. There is plenty of room for you in my Father's home. If that weren't so, would I have told you that I'm on my way to get a room ready for you? And if I'm on my way to get your room ready, I'll come back and get you so you can live where I live. And you already know the road I'm taking."


Pastor Cory leading the congregation in worship.


Pastor Jake as the disciple "Timothy", teaching children about the miracles of Christ.


Pastor John preaching the Easter sermon ALIVE, and leading all who were willing, into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

If you missed either of tonight's services, there are three more tomorrow morning at 9:00AM, 10:15AM, and 11:45AM!

Good Night

Good Friday

Although horrific, brutal and raw, Jesus' work on the cross is good news for you and me.



Matthew 27:11-61 (New International Version)

Jesus Before Pilate

11 Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

“You have said so,” Jesus replied.

12 When he was accused by the chief priests and the elders, he gave no answer. 13 Then Pilate asked him, “Don’t you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?” 14 But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor.

15 Now it was the governor’s custom at the festival to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd. 16 At that time they had a well-known prisoner whose name was Jesus[a] Barabbas. 17 So when the crowd had gathered, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you: Jesus Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” 18 For he knew it was out of self-interest that they had handed Jesus over to him.

19 While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.”

20 But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed.

21 “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor.

“Barabbas,” they answered.

22 “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked.

They all answered, “Crucify him!”

23 “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.

But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”

24 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!”

25 All the people answered, “His blood is on us and on our children!”

26 Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

27 Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. 28 They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, 29 and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said. 30 They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. 31 After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.

The Crucifixion of Jesus

32 As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. 33 They came to a place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). 34 There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. 35 When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 37 Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

38 Two rebels were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. 39 Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads 40 and saying, “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” 41 In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. 42 “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 44 In the same way the rebels who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.

The Death of Jesus

45 From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. 46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).

47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.”

48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49 The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.”

50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.

51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split 52 and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

54 When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!”

55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.

The Burial of Jesus

57 As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.

Good Night

Financial Peace University - Part 6 and 7

Tonight's class was separate, but a logical extension of last week's class. The lessons? Avoid purposefully buying (or getting talked into) things you don't need. That's applicable to cars, boats, houses and insurance. So many of the products and services we buy every day are strategically marketed to us. Some marketing tactics are obvious, while others are far more sinister. Great salesmen are so crafty, that we're often taken for a ride and don't event realize it. Sometimes, we're even happy about the 'deal'.

I'm certain that I'll need to run through the CD's again, and read through our workbook so that these golden nuggets of knowledge make their way down deep into my heart. There is so much information, it's like taking a drink from a garden hose.

Knowledge is power.

We're so thankful for the metamorphosis that's taking place inside of us. With each passing lesson, hidden schemes are coming to light and sophisticated marketing ploys are being exposed. We're beginning to think differently about our relationship with money and wealth building. It's exciting to know that we're also imparting this wisdom into the lives of our children, so that they're armed as they launch into adulthood.

Proverbs 22:6-7 (New International Version)

6 Start children off on the way they should go,
and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

7 The rich rule over the poor,
and the borrower is slave to the lender.

Good Night

Insanity

It's been said that: "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results." Some believe it was Einstein who coined the term, others say Benjamin Franklin, while still others quote authors of various books.

Regardless of where credit is due, the definition is certainly true. Yet, how many times do we attempt to extract differing results from the same routines in our lives? From resolving old arguments with our spouses, solving financial troubles, achieving a level of success, or becoming physically fit, we can't expect to achieve our goals without change.

Unless we embrace new ways of thinking and doing, we're no better than these guys:





God Bless You,

Good Night

It's Almost Easter Sunday

I wasn't sure of what to write about tonight. My head is literally spinning with projects at work, and personal struggles. Regardless of what's going on, it's almost Easter Sunday! No matter what distractions abound, it doesn't change the fact that Jesus died and rose again- for you and me.

Here's a recipe for Easter Cookies that I've always wanted to make. Each year passes, and I've never done it, but I wanted to share it with you. I believe this is the year I'll make these gems with my kids. It's sure to leave them thinking about the magnificent work of our Lord and Savior on Easter.



Easter Story Cookies

To be made the evening before Easter

* 1cup whole pecans
* 1tsp vinegar
* 3 egg whites
* pinch salt
* 1 cup sugar
* zipper baggie
* wooden spoon
* tape
* Bible

Preheat oven to 300 degrees (this is important, don't wait till you're half done with the recipe!)

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was Beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3.

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1tsp vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19:28-30.

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27.

So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup sugar.

Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Psalm 34:8 and John 3:16.

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid. Read Matthew 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed. Read Matthew 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matthew 28:1-9.

Good Night

The Daily Christian Walk

When I started this journey in December of 2009, I had no idea what would happen in the long term. Honestly, I couldn't see posting many entries past the first couple of weeks. After a year and a half of sharing insights, scripture, rants and raves, I'm feeling the need for change, however I'm not certain of what that change will look like. I believe the original objectives of the experiment were achieved, and for that, I'm grateful.

"...The Title of the blog is The Daily Christian Walk. The reason I chose this as a running theme, is because I'm a Christian whom struggles with various things on a daily basis. I know I'm not alone in this, and frankly I think people are inhibited at times to share the things they may think, feel or do, for fear of being judged by others. James 5:15 says "Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."

I take this as the Lord's instruction to confess the issues I struggle with each day. Then, maybe others can do the same and spiritual healing and growth can begin for everyone involved..."

Stay tuned to see what happens next. God bless you.

Good Night

Everyone Is Looking For Jesus

I've got just one brief item to share tonight; count possibly two more people for Easter services this coming weekend!

For the past year or so, my wife and I have taken to watching movies and having dinner together on Saturday evenings after church. It's a form of "date night" we look forward to each weekend after the kids go to sleep. More often than not, we would stop by the West Salem Quiznos for a pair of sandwiches and drinks before heading home to pop in a DVD.

Our patronage has become so commonplace, that I've established and cultivated a friendship with the young man named Robbie, who's recently taken ownership of this local chapter of the franchise. He's an extremely dedicated, hard working fellow with a penchant for excellent customer service. He keeps his place of business clean, and serves a quality product with a smile on his face. Every time. In contrast to so many other restaurants in this town, Robbie's level of service is a breath of fresh air. (He also knows how to put together a very tasty sandwich!)

What's more, this man has been through some weighty matters over the past year, and he doesn't have many people to talk to, or confide in. I'm honored that he's accepted me as a friend.

Last week, when Pastor John instructed us to invite others for Easter services, my wife and I immediately thought about Robbie. After services concluded, we made a b-line for Quiznos, only this time it wasn't for sandwiches. The whole rendezvous didn't last more than about a minute; I simply walked in and offered the 'Alive' postcard, with a quick "no strings attached" greeting from the heart. Then, I simply turned around and left.

Fast forward to this afternoon. The family was hungry after church services let out at 12:15PM, so it was off to Quiznos for lunch. After the initial rush dissipated, Robbie spared a few minutes to come and 'hang out' with us, to check in and see how things were going. After hearing some interesting (and scary) tales about driving during his various trips back to his native India, he informed us that he and his wife are really going to try to attend services this coming Saturday night. She has never been to church before, and he seemed genuinely eager to attend. Yes!

"God, you are so good. Please guard and protect Robbie and his wife throughout this coming week. Let them attend Easter services this weekend with open hearts and minds. Please lead them to the truth, and become flooded with your love and grace. Amen."

Good Night

Tired But Trusting

I'm absolutely beat tonight. I didn't do much around the house in terms of housework before lunch, but I did manage to work on some IT tasks for the church, and fix a couple of door jambs in our house where two doors were sagging when they were opened.

After lunch, I verified the setup of my son's Ethernet Bridge for his XBox360, as my wife left for a girl's afternoon out with a friend of hers/ours. It's something she never really gets to do, and she deserves every minute of it. So, preparing lunch for the children was going to be up to me. Thankfully, I had already placed the meal on the table, before my in-laws called for some personal computer advice.

After hanging up, I quite literally had a few minutes to finish getting ready, and hoof it up to the church, to rehearse for this weekends' final "Famous Last Words" service.

Once church was over, my stomach was growling. Within minutes, I was headed back to the house where I cooked a quick dinner for the kids and I. After they scampered off to bed, I launched into cleaning up the kitchen, and some nasty messes in our garage which simply could not wait another day. (Grr, I hate cats. Well, not the animal, but the litter boxes- especially when one cat refuses to use it, and simply goes all over the floor. Several times a day. Every day.)

As I sit down to write this, it's well after 10:00PM. I've put in time for everyone and everything else, but haven't really taken care of "me". Tomorrow won't likely be any better in terms of relaxing, as there is more volunteer work to be done, and there are several more items on the agenda (house cleaning) that need to be addressed, before making preparations for the new work and school week.

I'm clinging to God for support.

Isaiah 40:31 (New International Version)

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

Isaiah 41:10 (New International Version)

So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Good Night

Another TGIF!

I'm excited that the weekend has finally arrived; it's been another really long work week, and I'm ready for a change of pace. Because my wife was out of town for a few hours with her parents, it was up to me to run the show this evening. To kick things off in a novel manner, breakfast was served for dinner. Waffles, hash browns and sausage were on the menu. Beverages consisted of milk for the kiddos, while I took the time to enjoy (versus "gulp and go" during the morning commute) a great cup of joe.

Ah, it's Friday night. Time to climb into pajamas and wind down. The kids are asleep, and I'm able to hear myself think...

This weekend holds the promise of getting some things cleaned up around the house, volunteering at church tomorrow evening and Sunday morning, followed by fellowship with our small group Bible study on Sunday afternoon.

Thank God for weekends!

Good Night

A Pure Heart

As we sat in church on Wednesday evening for an Easter Pep Rally service, my daughter innocently doodled on a piece of paper, and then slipped it into an envelope and passed it along for me. I placed it in my pocket for safekeeping, instead of immediately examining the contents.

She's always drawing on pieces of paper at home, usually ponies or some other animal. At the time, I didn't think much of it. This morning, I pulled the envelope from my coat pocket and looked at her handiwork:



"God is Awesome."
"Please do not sin." (Dark heart)
"This will happen if you do not sin." (Light heart)

Such an amazingly insightful and deep thought from an 8 year old. "Thank you, Jesus for such a wonderful, precious gift that is my baby girl. Amen."

Good Night

Do... Something!

The task and project lists at work keep growing. Some time-sensitive technical duties at church are mounting. The "honey-do" list at home is already a couple of pages long, without signs of letting up anytime soon. Needless to say, it's time to put my nose the the grindstone, consistently work hard and accomplish some things.

It's definitely not a time to slack off. However, the busier I get, the more aggressive the temptation to give in to being overwhelmed, and simply shut down. Some of these verses have been ringing through my headphones recently, which tells me that God is trying to help me through more heart problems: fear and laziness.

Proverbs 12:24 (Amplified Bible)

The hand of the diligent will rule, but the slothful will be put to forced labor.

Proverbs 12:27 (Amplified Bible)

The slothful man does not catch his game or roast it once he kills it, but the diligent man gets precious possessions.

Proverbs 19:15 (Amplified Bible)

Slothfulness casts one into a deep sleep, and the idle person shall suffer hunger.

Proverbs 21:25 (Amplified Bible)

The desire of the slothful kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.

There's more than enough work to fill up my day, and some of the items on my plate require some serious depth of thought and skill in order to pull off- some of which I'm not currently equipped to handle. I find that I'm being stretched, and it's uncomfortable. However, in my heart I know that God is with me, and He will see me through these rough times.

Good Night

Everything

I'm absolutely burned out tonight. I've got literally nothing left inside; nada, zip. zilch. I asked the Holy Spirit what He wanted me to share, but the only thing that came to mind was a particular video on Youtube called "Everything" from Lifehouse.

While I'm certain you've seen this video before, it speaks to my heart every time I watch it. This piece illustrates that even when our lives are dark and messy, the Lord is ready and willing to rescue us, help us walk through our trials and love us unconditionally.



Good Night

The Dawn Of The Space Age

50 years ago, the first manned spaceflight took place in the Soviet Union, and the world has never been the same. Yuri Gagarin was the first human to complete an orbit of the Earth in his Vostok 1 capsule on April 12, 1961. (Alan Shepard was the second man in in space, but the first American, having piloted Freedom 7 some three weeks later on a suborbital, 15.5 minute spaceflight on May 5, 1961.)

Another fact, was the subsequent launch of STS-1, the first mission of the modern Space Shuttle program. Columbia flew for the first time, on April 12, 1981.

Almost all of the innovations we enjoy today (and take for granted), have their roots in preparing for, sustaining, or were created in laboratories designed for spaceflight.

Good Night

Sunday

The weekend is over. In a few short hours, I'll be preparing for (and heading into) work for the new work week. Obviously this isn't a new situation, but I'm in denial. There's a small part of me that refuses to believe it's anything but Saturday night!

No matter- it is what it is. Fortunately, the calendar weeks are cyclic; meaning that with each passing day, Sunday's coming!

Speaking of Sunday... Do you have plans for Easter Sunday? If not, consider attending services at our church.



Good Night

Restore

Today was a technical "clean up" day at our house; after some initial morning errands, I set about reimaging my wife's laptop, and then kicked off a restoration to my Mac from a backup, after first installing a fresh copy of OSX. In fact, my computer still registers 2 hours, 51 minutes left in order to complete the task, as I write this post from my iPhone. .

Things were running slowly on our computers (more my wife's Windows PC than my Mac), not operating at peak performance. To refresh, we're purging the old data and are beginning anew. Sure, I'm cheating a bit by restoring (instead of manually installing), but the core system files have changed, and these systems are fast again!

Sometimes our lives need an overhaul, too... What kinds of things are going on in your life, that could stand for some restoration?

Good Night

Thankful For Friday

As is usually the case, I'm thankful that Friday has finally circled 'round the week and is presently upon us. The work week has finished, and our minds can begin the process of shifting to completing domestic tasks and personal responsibilities, while enjoying some leisure activities as well. It's finally our time.

Friday evenings are one of my favorite parts of the weekend! God bless you.

Good Night

Financial Peace University - Part 5

Tonight's round of financial training centered around the Credit Sharks. If you remember nothing else, remember this: No matter how they spin it or try to conceal it, Creditors collect money- bottom line.

We learned the importance of checking your credit report annually, and how to dispute errant information if found there. We learned about the terrible things that creditors do to try and recoup payment when you fall behind, and dispelled some myths about what is actually legal. We also adopted some strategies that one can employ to get back on track when things do get rough.

First, get your free credit report. Federal law stipulates that you are entitled to one free report each year. You do not have to pay for this service, as specified in the Fair and Accurate Transactions (FACT) Act. However, the links for the free reports are often small and relatively inconspicuous, when compared to the toll-based services offered for credit protection, monitoring services, etc. See any one of the three credit entities for more information: Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax. If you find a mistake on an entry in your credit report, or an entry that doesn't belong to you, notify the credit bureau immediately in writing. Once received (by certified mail), they have 30 days to resolve or remove the entry.

Secondly, we discovered what some creditors do to try and collect payment. We also learned what creditors can't legally do to try and collect the debt. For example, creditors cannot:

* Call you repeatedly or contact you at an unreasonable time (the law presumes that before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. in your time zone is unreasonable).
* Place telephone calls to you without identifying themselves as bill collectors
* Contact you at work if your employer prohibits it.
* Use obscene or profane language.
* Use or threaten to use violence.
* Speak with you regarding someone else's debt (or with others about your debt).

Finally, If you find that you're in over your head, where even the minimum payments are insufficient to cover your debt, consider placing your bills on the "pro-rata" plan. This strategy reminded me of periods in my life when this knowledge would have come in handy, and saved a boatload of grief and stress. My hope is that you gain from our experiences, as well.

Proverbs 22:7 (Amplified Bible)

The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Good Night

Worn Out

I just can't do it tonight... I've had a rough day in our test lab at work, followed by a long night remotely working on the church's server. Every victory was hard won, and there wasn't many.

It's these kind of days that bring humility- and negative thoughts of not being good enough, smart enough or capable of performing given tasks. I know those are lies, but when you can't seem to get things moving in a timely manner...

I'm going to bed frustrated, yet hopeful that tomorrow brings progress.

Good Night

Please Pray For My Friend's Father

I learned only hours ago, that the father of a friend of mine had a mild heart attack this afternoon. Thankfully, he was cognizant enough to get to a hospital quickly after feeling chest pains. We've been told that there was little to no damage to the heart muscle, so a complete recovery is expected.

Please agree with me in prayer: "Lord, please bring full health and healing to Larry. Guide the surgeons Lord, so that they quickly resolve the blockage which caused the heart attack. We ask that you please allow the healing process to proceed, in record time and without complication. Thank you, Father. Amen!"

Psalm 147:3 (Amplified Bible)

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds [curing their pains and their sorrows].

Good Night

Another Tired Monday

Although I had the day off from my day job, I had a full day of working, nonetheless. This morning began with getting my children off to school, and volunteering at our church reconfiguring elements of their new OS X Server, and retiring an older Windows server.

After lunch, it was running errands, grocery shopping and finally ironing out this month's family budget with my wife. By the time this evening's chores were finished, I was absolutely ready to drop.

Tomorrow represents the beginning of a four day work week, and I'm very excited that another weekend is already on the horizon. At the end of the week, there is an evening server maintenance scheduled. No matter what, I know that the Lord will get me through whatever obstacles present themselves.

Philippians 4:13 (Amplified Bible)

I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].

God Bless you,

Good Night

Imbalance

Today was exhausting. I didn't perform any form of particularly difficult labor, but several activities transpired to sap the energy reserves by the end of the night. The morning began at 7:00 AM, with a trip to church for the first half of the day. My son was a performer in the bi-monthly "Family Venture" worship service at WSFC, while I ran the slides, musical cues and transitions. It was a truly wonderful experience to see children learning the biblical principles of generosity, as they were singing, dancing and being entertained. Parents and children alike walked away with seeds [of generosity] planted in their hearts and minds.

After lunch, we ran our daughter to a new friend's house, which was simply beautiful. The place was easily worth six figures more than our own home. Everything was 'perfect', and I felt horribly outclassed just standing in their doorway.

Within minutes I was back home, looking at the Grocery Outlet website for coupons and insight into potential deals they may be offering above and beyond their already reduced pricing. It's no secret that I've revealed some personal information with you, and shared data regarding the financial classes my wife and I are currently attending. We're trying to adhere to a redesigned budget, so discretionary income is reduced for the time being, and every monthly cost is carefully being evaluated- including food.

However, after reading an article [The Food Stamp Challenge] published on the grocery chain's website, I felt as though I'd been punched in the stomach. Here I am, worrying about how we'll be able to reduce our monthly expenses, when there are families in my own community who live below our state's poverty line, and have to make tough calls regarding feeding their children on as little as $21 in food stamps per person, per week. That's $1 per meal, per person, three times per day. Snacks simply aren't on the menu.

Because my wife and I have four children, our family would hypothetically be issued $126 per week for food. That's $6552 amortized to an average of $546 per month. While not an insignificant amount of money, that isn't much currency to feed a family of our size. In any given month, we currently spend double that amount just trying to keep the pantry stocked. This fact really made me take a step back and think about how difficult daily life can be for so many people, and how 'good' we really have it. We are no different [or better] than the people living out this harsh reality every day. We breathe the same air. We're simply blessed in the midst of our challenges.

After a "frozen box" dinner, my wife and I sat down to watch "The Social Network" on DVD. I feel as though we're likely the last people on the planet to view the film, however statistically it's highly improbable. How did I like it? Well, I loved the movie itself and was [am] grotesquely intrigued by the real people behind the caricatures on screen. The movie awoke a part of my childhood; the nerdy kid who was busy coding sprites in BASIC on a TRS-80 [and saving them to cassette] while everyone else in my peer group was at the mall, hooking up their own human "networks". Key differences? About a decade, the fact that Mark Zuckerberg has me bested by approximately 20 IQ points and I'm not valued at $13.5 billion.

I had to appreciate Jesse Eisenberg's portrayal of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg. I was immediately drawn to "Mark's" technical prowess and raw and brutal honesty. However, his lack of social graces was off-putting at times. Although dramatization is certain to deviate from reality, I found myself rallying for Eduardo Saverin, and loathing Shawn Parker. Granted, I don't know these men; I wasn't a fly on the wall in the midst of their business meetings or social gatherings, so I'll never know how events actually transpired. I can't judge them, nor would they likely even take notice if I did such a thing. In the end, it was educational to see how the world's largest social network came into existence.

Let's tie it together, shall we? In the course of one day, the Lord placed an interesting collage of sorts into focus. We learned about the importance of thinking of others; giving to those in need with a generous heart. We became aware of the very bleak reality of families in our community, who cannot easily afford to eat a healthy meal each day. I discovered where my family currently fits in the socio-economic pyramid, and finally, we saw an example of extreme wealth and unprecedented success. Such an imbalance in America!

Now, I'm not trying to promote communism, or any form of new age thinking. People with talents and tenacity should be rewarded for their work. However, I'm simply stating that if more Christians were to actually follow what the Word of God says to do for the poor, would there be a little more 'balance' among the classes? If we're operating in love, would there even be any 'classes' at all? This whole subject requires far more thought and effort to tackle than I have within me tonight. Let's just reflect on how we can reach out and help those who are less fortunate than ourselves, regardless of our status level.

Deuteronomy 15:4-7 (The Message)

4-6 There must be no poor people among you because God is going to bless you lavishly in this land that God, your God, is giving you as an inheritance, your very own land. But only if you listen obediently to the Voice of God, your God, diligently observing every commandment that I command you today. Oh yes—God, your God, will bless you just as he promised. You will lend to many nations but won't borrow from any; you'll rule over many nations but none will rule over you.

7-9 When you happen on someone who's in trouble or needs help among your people with whom you live in this land that God, your God, is giving you, don't look the other way pretending you don't see him. Don't keep a tight grip on your purse. No. Look at him, open your purse, lend whatever and as much as he needs. Don't count the cost. Don't listen to that selfish voice saying, "It's almost the seventh year, the year of All-Debts-Are-Canceled," and turn aside and leave your needy neighbor in the lurch, refusing to help him. He'll call God's attention to you and your blatant sin.

Luke 10:33-35 (The Message)

33-35"A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man's condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I'll pay you on my way back.'

Good Night

God Loves You

Friends, this is all you really need to know:

John 3:16 (The Message)

16-18"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.

If you don't know Christ, or are lacking a personal relationship with God, perhaps it's time to open up the Bible and see what Easter is all about. Consider the cross; instead of merely dismissing it as a charm to wear around your neck, really think about what Jesus work on the cross represents for you.

Consider plugging in to a good Bible based church for an Easter service, or pick up a version of the Bible (or read online for free) that's easy to read and understand, like The Message, Amplified, or New English Translations. Start in the Gospel of John, and really take the time to marinate on each verse. After all, the Bible is God's love letter to you.

God bless you.

Good Night

Megamind

Because payday coincided with a Friday, my wife and I decided to kick off the new month (and responsibly spend from our "entertainment envelope") by buying a few pizzas for the family and renting a DVD from RedBox.

First, let me start by saying that RedBox is amazing. I've politely ignored the service for years, but after looking into how the system works online, we decided to give it a shot. I had no idea that you could log on to their website from the comfort of your home, plug in your ZIP code and actually see what was available in any given vending machine in the area. From there, you can reserve your disc with a few short clicks of the mouse. All that's needed at that point is a quick stop at the local RedBox kiosk, a swipe of the debit card and you're literally on your way.

So, on to the movie: Megamind

The story was very entertaining, and not at all what I'd expected. Will Ferrel is as hilarious as I'd ever heard, and all without the use of profanity- a nice touch. The soundtrack to the movie is rife with classic rock tunes from the '80's, and I was right at home with the volume knob on the stereo.

As the plot unfolded, there were interesting twists in this "good versus evil" tale. What impressed me the most however, was the heart change that was gradually occurring within the antagonist-turned-protagonist. Obviously, the forces of good won out in the end, and while that seems so "Hollywood", it got me thinking about a Proverb I heard on The Daily Audio Bible podcast today.

Proverbs 12:5-7 (The Message)

5 The thinking of principled people makes for justice;
the plots of degenerates corrupt.

6 The words of the wicked kill;
the speech of the upright saves.

7 Wicked people fall to pieces—there's nothing to them;
the homes of good people hold together.

You can choose to be and do good. Or, you can choose to follow after evil.

Choose good. God bless you.

Good Night