HT: CG
Archive for September, 2008
It’s been awhile since I’ve posted Aubrey pictures. Here are a few to hold you over.
Aubrey and her cousin hanging out.
Aubrey eating prunes. She is not a fan.
Mom is already trying to brainwash her.
Abacus
I’ll admit it…I’ve really been into the election this year. I think it has been really exciting. I love watching CNN, the debates, the commentary, and even listening to talk radio.
Another thing that I’ve really enjoyed watching is Christians over the last year, they’ve been scrambling. Coming off elections of the past where many people said “you could only be a good Christian and vote Republican” to a current reality of looking at so many more issues and taking a second look at the ones held so dear.
Many people who follow Jesus are now asking…who is closest to the heart of Jesus? I’m one of them. Before the election I hope to unpack on this blog what I see in Jesus and how that will shape my vote in November.
BUT…
We need proper perspective before we put all our hope on government and a candidate. I say this in light of a local pastor who said that America is on a path to hell if a certain candidate wins. By the way I think this comment is ridiculous, no matter what name is inserted.
God works through people…people everywhere to carry out his mission.
In light of that, I would encourage you to read a post called “The Eschatology of Politics” by Scot McKnight, a great theologian that I often read. It can be found by clicking here.
Eschatology-Study of what is going to happen to humanity, ultimately the end of the world.
Next Monday, October 6th, is the deadline in Michigan to register to vote. Make sure that you are registered and able to have your voice heard in November.
Click here to be linked to the state of Michigan site to register.
I’d would also strongly encourage you to pray and ask God where your vote should go. Ask him to break through anything you might have put up in order to clearly hear from him.
Register.
I try very hard not to recommend too many books or CD’s on this blog. When I do I want to make sure it has impacted me and really could impact others.
This afternoon I finished a book I’ve been working on for awhile. The book is “The Great Awakening” by Jim Wallis. Jim in this book said many of the things that I’ve been processing in my mind but could not articulate it. There were many times I laughed out loud, boldly agreed, times I disagreed, but consistently was challenged.
So here’s my thought: There is some powerful wisdom and deep insight into many issues that our country is facing from a man who loves Jesus and his Word. No matter where you stand on the candidates for president, I challenge you to read this book before the election and really examine your belief and how that will shape your vote.
“I love you, you love me. We’re a happy family. With a great big hug and a kiss from me to you. Won’t you say you love me too?”
It’s funny how a song that you cringed at for so long can become so endearing. Tonight I was holding Aubrey and sang these words to her. She smiles at the end of the song each time.
Thanks purple dinosaur fella.
Happy 18th birthday Kimber.
This past Friday was an exciting night. The previous Friday Kimber called and asked to come over after school. I thought she had a bad day and needed to escape. She came in the house and Joanna and I met her in the kitchen.
She smiled and lifted a tiara above the counter. We quickly realized that she had been voted Homecoming Queen by the school. We were so excited for her.
Friday night was a fun but quite honestly a little crazy to see my little sister riding on what was a beautiful Corvette as the homecoming queen. It could not have gone to a sweeter girl. We are so proud of her, for who she is and who she is becoming.
Here are a few pictures from the night.
I am hoping to post again early this week.
I’ve not had the chance to post anything but here are a few things to look for…
- New Aubrey Video
- New Aubrey pictures
- An encounter with a queen
- General life updates
- And a bit of randomness
(Back Row: Randy, Robin, Stephanie, Megan, Becca, Tyler, Lindsay, Rob, Tyler, Ben, Chris, Matt. Front Row: Zach, Brittney, Annan, Christine, Kimber, Kara, Rachel, Leanna, Lauren, Kris)
2006 Tennessee Mission Trip
I was looking at some pictures tonight and came across this photo. This was hands down the hardest mission trip I ever led. We camped for a week in the scorching Tennessee summer heat. It was the hottest and muggiest weather they had in years. It was the type of weather in which you take a shower to find relief and then step out only to sweat right away.
It is funny to look back at this trip now and think about it. When this picture was taken we were leaving for home and I think the only reason people could smile was because of that fact. We dealt with the heat, skunks, uncomfortable beds, long days, sickness, and so much more. These days I’ll talk to kids about this trip and many of them said it was the best time they had on a mission trip and learned so much and really grew closer to God. Who knew?
I suppose we never know what is really happening in the situations we are currently in. There are so many levels of things happening and so often we need to process it later on and see what God does through it.
No matter what you are in the midst of or going through, God is at work, whether he seems near or far. Keep on going and look for your role in the plan, keep on leading.
