Ken Sande - Peacemaking Marriage

Last night the Leadership school here at Southern had the opportunity to host Mr. Ken Sande, Director of Peacemaker Ministries. The first event was a couples' dessert. Well, you might ask...why was I attending - I'm not a couple. But, I do work for the LEAD School so I had to be there. What a treat I was in for! :)
His goal of marriage: to feel safer and happier near (your spouse) than anywhere else in this world. And the only way to get there: the gospel of Jesus Christ.
He shared many stories from his own marriage and parenting and other experiences in his life. He was personable and funny - but serious when it came to marriage and the gospel. And forgiveness and repentance. His points were Word-based and focused on the good news of the gospel of Jesus. In a Q/A time - he pointed out from John 13, 17 that this type of peacemaking would also be great for evangelistic purposes.
Marriages show the world the mystery and the glory of Christ. I pray for marriages that I know that their marriage would showcase that Glory. I pray for my own marriage - if God ever blesses in that way - that I would be a safe harbor for my husband to come to (and our home).
The thing I caught the most was to breathe grace. This also goes along with what Dustin preached on Sunday at church. our words and (internal talk) should always breathe grace to people.

Pennyrile Forest State Park (Princeton and KY Dam State Park too)

I am so thankful for cell phones and Mom who has internet at home! I kept going through these small towns in Central KY and wanted to stop...

So...I first went to Princeton, KY where they were having a carnival type thing. It was fun just to walk through - but so thankful that I live in a bigger city - I love these things - but don't want to be all that I look forward to all year.

Then I got off the WKParkway and made my way through Dawson Springs (home of Steve Beshear, the governor) to the Pennyrile Forest State Park. For things to do - this is definitely my favorite so far. I was only able (time wise and shoe wise) to his 2 of the smaller trails, but they have so many ranging from .10 miles to over 13. Great hiking and nature on the hikes. There was a lake, cliffs to look over (a wedding was going on, pretty setting), a pool, cottages, golf, etc. Definitely want to go back there sometime! The last picture is of the sandstone bluffs on the Indian trail that I thought were pretty.

The KY Dam Village State Park was fun to look at. It is in the Land Between the Lakes section of KY - so many state parks in this area. I just had time to get out and take some pictures. Again - water, one of my favorite things! That is the first picture posted.

Travels in KY - Paducah

Well, my Mom said I was in this city once before - on the back of a station wagon waiting for the ferry to cross the river. Well, the ferry no longer runs and I will remember this trip.

I was in Paducah for a KBC event...did my volunteering early in the morning - then began a sight seeing tour.

I went down to where the Ohio and TN rivers join - it was so pretty and quiet. I spent some time in the Word at a little table up on shore. I love water and quietness - so this was definitely a premier spot for me! Thank you God for leading me to this spot.

There was a walltowall history monument all along the river front. That was nice.

Then I found the Downtown Farmer's Market. I got pan pan squash, yellow pear tomatoes, corn, a fuji apple, a plum, tasted some great eggplant dip (and I don't even like eggplant) and a squash fritter. All were great. Yellow pear toms are my favorites - all of that for 4.65 - you gotta love farmer's markets!

Then I hit the road...

Labor Day Part 4 - Final

I woke up so early (the alarm clock was set wrong so I had to double check with my phone), but I wanted to get to Vogel early!
I headed to Vogel State Park in Blairsville, GA where my family would take our vacations in the summer. This is one of three places that are dear to my heart: the Suwanee River and Camp Sonlight being the other two.
I got my hiking map and started off. I did the 4 mile hike on Bear Hair Gap with the Vogel loop stuck in the middle. I am so thankful for God's creation and the physical ability to enjoy it. It was tough - my shoes gave out - but the view was so worth it. I would like to do the overnight Coosa Back Country hike if I have any takers to go with me???
Then I came back down and went around Lake Trahlyta where I saw people fishing, paddle boating, and enjoying the water, and grilling out on Labor Day. Oh, what fun!
Then, I got in my car, headed north, traveling through little back roads around Murphy NC and into TN on TN 68 till I got to 75. My only other stop (besides gas) was at Sonny's in Corbin KY. What a way to end the weekend.
By the time I was pulling out of Vogel - I was already wishing I could go back. Man, what a great place! And its only 6.15 hours away from the ville.

Labor Day Part 3

The morning started early in our Best Western hotel room. We went down to breakfast, checked out, watched some on the Feeder Bands of Gustav on TWC with our resident expert, Jessica! :)
Then we went to Publix to pick up our subs for lunch and made our way to Stone Mountain Park.
Climbing Stone Mountain was harder than I thought it was going to be, but also more rewarding when I got to the top. We climbed hard - Jessica was the champ finishing first. I pulled up behind her. We were all cheering each other on to get to the top. The scenes were beautiful from the top of the mountain. And the way down was just as hard, but harder on your calves and ankles. Well worth it - and its free (minus the parking).
We then ate a picnic with Publix subs, customized snacks, and cupcakes. We prayed specifically for each other before we left the park.
As we got back to the hotel - we knew it was going to end - and we each had to go back to our homes.
I then headed to Dahlonega, GA. My Dad had graciously payed for a hotel there if I would look for him some bluegrass music. Well, there was only one store and they didn't have what he was looking for. I enjoyed some ice cream at Connie's - the line was out the door - very popular place! Found two Southern Living cookbooks Mom didn't have, so I picked up those for her.
Then got to the hotel - I love having hotel rooms to myself. Read through Ephesians, watched the Wildcats beat the Cards (so excited the SEC pulled through), ate some wings and cheesy bread, then put National Treasure on sleep mode and went to bed.
Final day in Part 4

Labor Day Part 2

We all arrived at the Best Western in Smyrna at the same time (about 1 minute apart). Hugs abounded! Nena - whom I've known since 1998 I think; Heather, whom I just met; and Jessica, whom I've also known since my Anastasia staff days. What a treat.
We crashed for a little bit in our hot hotel room (no air on before we got there). Then we went to Publix to round out our snacks. The Robshaw sent me a great basket with wonderful stuff in it - and the girls had brought me some great stuff as well. I provided all the snacks for the weekend.
So, they let me rave about Publix!
Then we all got ready to go to the Virginia Highlands area of ATL. It was great. Dr. Wilder had suggested it - and it was a great suggestion!
We went to Murphy's and Cafe Intermezzo (in Buckhead) - see food blog for write ups on those. Both were great, I love knowledgeable waiters and other foodies to enjoy it with. We did some shopping in some way too expensive stores but eclectic - so they were fun to window-shop.
Then we headed to the Buckhead area via Jessica's map reading! :) There are definitely parts of ATL that I do not want to get lost in... How many "adult stores" did we pass, Heather?
By the time we got back to the hotel, we each were doing some reading in the Word, turned on ESPN for some highlights of the opening NCAA football weekend, and then called it a night. We were all tired.

Labor Day Part 1

I have to break this trip down into sections.
i left here on Friday to head to Murfreesboro TN to visit with Lisa, a good friend of mine from high school. I love it when I can fly through Nashville with no traffic and make it there in just over 3 hours.
We ate a fantastic light dinner of a Mexican salad and tortilla chips - then went shopping for an outfit I needed for Saturday night in ATL. Finally found one in Wal-mart, but it was also something I could wear more than once!
Then we came back and ate brownies and new Publix ice cream - oatmeal raisin cookie dough - wow, so much better than chocolate chip cookie dough. I even made Lisa blow out a candle because it is her b-day on the 9th. We started watching the US Open and then we found Little Women - but both of us were tired, so we didn't get too far into it.
I got to sleep in the Boat Room at The Moseley Bed and Breakfast - they are so gracious!
We had monkey bread for breakfast and Matt had to scurry out of the house to run an errand.
Lisa and Matt are very gracious hosts!
Then on my way to Smyrna, I called my friend Christina who just happened to be sitting at a Panera on a coming-soon exit. So, I had to eat lunch - so I got to eat lunch with her. I hadn't seen her in a while, so it was very good to catch up with her face-to-face and hug her neck as she would say.
Then, I started back on I-75 to meet up with my friends....Best Western here we come!

Happy Blog Birthday!

Well - almost three years have gone by since I started this thing. I'll be on the road tomorrow to HOTlanta so I won't be able to post.
Here are some things.
1. You gotta watch this video. And yes - Florida is a Southern state. If you are bbq fans - you will love this. Thanks Dad for sending it to me. I laughed, loved the harmonies, and got offended when they didn't think FL was a southern state.
2. I've lived in 3 states since I started this blog: NC, FL, and now KY.
3. I have been a part of three great churches: Summit, FBCOC, and now Crossing here in the ville.
4. My friends are fantastic!
5. God has done some amazing "lesson-teaching" in the last three years.

This weekend I hope will be amazing. Going to Murfreesboro, TN; Smyrna, GA; Stone Mountain Park; Dahlonega, GA; Vogel State Park, and then back home. More pictures.
Thanks for reading!

Thoughts During Obama/McCain/Warren Forum

Prelim statements:
1. I don't know if Rick Warren actually thought he was going to get "truthful" answers - but speaking in a church for either of these candidates is going to slant their answers.
2. I am not endorsing either candidate...neither do I agree with wholeheartedly. Almost a lose-lose situation - but we gotta have A president. And it is my Christian duty - a person who tries with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God - to pray for my President - and that is what I'll do...

Obama:
1. Didn't he start every answer (maybe slightly exaggerating) with "well..."
2. He answered the "are you a Christian and what does that mean" and said "hopefully my sins will be forgiven" at the end. But...is being a Christian being tolerant and ok (meaning, they are right too) in beliefs that are anti-only Christ?
3. He failed to answer the "when life begins" question. No matter what he believes - he wouldn't answer it. Something is wrong with that - don't dodge it. I know he may not make a lot of money as President - but that decision is not "above his pay grade".
4. Even though he believes in man/woman marriage with "God in the mix" he will not take a governmental stand against same-sex marriage. Thinking through it with him. He was right - our constitution has not defined marriage in the past - so to define it now would be discriminating. Are we going to apply Christian principles in politics in some areas and not in others? We aren't consistent. That is where politics and faith are incompatible.
5. I agree with the fact about faith-based orgs - they shouldn't be +/- based on that sole factor.
6. Merit-based pay for teachers. YES. I agree. Don't we do that in almost every other profession? Yes. We reward excellence - like he said.
7. No one likes taxes - he is right. But, he is also right - they must be. And I agree also, I don't like loopholes. I hate doing my taxes - but that's why we have accountants - right? Is there a choice to not have taxes? Someone provide me a workable solution w/o taxes and I'll sign on! :) But, I don't have ever see that happening? Even during the Revolution - wasn't there something about taxing tea that was behind the Boston Tea Party? As the saying goes, nothing is as sure as death and taxes.
8. Orphans/adoption. Southern is really big on adoption. But why is adoption so expensive? I think it should include extensive (maybe even more so than now) interviews, etc - but why does it have to cost so much?
9. Why does he want to be President: Basically...he empathizes with the little people - that's why he wants to be president. Not good enough for me. I didn't think that was the greatest answer to give for that question.
10. There are going to be sacrifices. But, while he limited his answer - I would say he doesn't want Americans to have to make sacrifices in other areas - like the war in Iraq, the mental health of a mother in the 8th month, etc. So, why does he want us to make sacrifices in some areas and other not others...again - the duplicity of politics.

Alright...clapping, politeness, hugs, commercials...

McCain:
1. Wisdom - I don't think wisdom is based on Ebay - wisdom is not that. Go read Proverbs. Thanks Dustin for preaching on it right now.
2. Greatest American failure - we don't think outside ourselves. I think that is very true and very broad. It covers many areas...
3. I do like the whole "offshore drilling" thing - that we are sending billions of dollars to countries who don't like us very much...why? We have Texas don't we - and yes, I know that is very simplistic and unreasonable.
4. To be a Christian: "saved and forgiven" - ok, that's vague - not mentioning Jesus at all - even Obama did that. Didn't even answer the everyday question.
5. Abortion - at least he answered undoubtedly the life begins at conception question. Pro-life policies commitment.
6. We should preserve marriage. Great - than let's make that constitutional. But do we get in to exclusions.
7. McCain is very simple in his answers. More so than I have seen him before. He is very "emphatic" - defeat it (evil question). But, to my knowledge, evil will exist until Jesus returns - but we can fight against it.
8. Faith-based orgs can not have it both ways. They can not have be out from under the Constitution on hiring policies but also want government funding.
9. Find bad teachers another line of work - praise Jesus! :) Choice in competition. But, are we giving training and help to those bad teachers - meaning...is it because of outside influences that they are bad - or are they just bad teachers?
10. He didn't really answer the rich question... It wasn't taxes, it was spending. Studying bears in Montana - haha! (He is more funny than Obama, at least tonight).
11. You can't have complete privacy and complete security. Which one is more important? It should go back to one of his first answers - we must think outside ourselves. I don't know what the answer is - but I'm not running for president.
12. Why do you want to be President: Serve outside yourself. Inspiration. Unity. Definitely a Republican answer. Much better answer than Obama (stand up for the little people).

More venues...more conversations...
Now...if I were to have to vote right now - of course I would vote for McCain. One of my girls said "Bush is pro-life too and abortions haven't gone down, so I'm going to vote for Obama". But I didn't see enough compelling evidence in his discussion tonight to vote for him - even though I didn't disagree with him on everything. And he is the only one that mentioned Jesus and God and had more of that discussion. But, as commentary said before, it isn't "McCain's way to do that". Do I agree with that no - you should take a strong stand for Christ wherever!

Now for Phelps and commentary!

Daniel Boone Inspired Travel

Two more state parks in Kentucky, marked off my list. Both of these were more historic in nature.

Boone Station, the Daniel Boone settlement in Athens, KY, was my first stop. Met at my car by the park keep named Luther, who is 62 and has been there since 1991, I looked around at its beauty. There is only a few picnic tables and two barns on this property of more than 600 acres. And trees of course. Mr. Luther told me all about it and gave me a back way to get to my next state park (which he works during the winter that Boone Station is closed.

I loved this one because all I could hear was nature and sometimes the tractor that Mr. Luther rode. That was it. You can bring your own lunch and have a picnic, enjoy the quiet, and hardly see another person. There was one other couple who started the tree-lined trail before me.

This State Historic Site was settled by Boone in 1779 because he thought Boonesboro was getting too populated. So, he came west about 10 miles and got 600 acres, put up lean-tos, and camped there until spring - then he built his dwelling places. It is in Athens, KY, off 75 at Exit 104. just about 70 minutes from Louisville. Go east about 2 miles, turn left where you see the sign. When you dead end, take a right. Its easy and peaceful.

Then I took a back road up to the original Ft. Boonesboro during the Civil War. This is speculation and there are "discussions" on which fort is the real one. But, this one runs right along the Kentucky River, and it is gorgeous. So calm. Then I found the Ft. Boonesboro State Park. Has one little trail that heads up to the fort, mini-golf, a huge pool with slide, picnic areas, etc. This would be a great park for families with small kids.

Ft. Boonesboro is off exit 94 on 75, go east and follow signs. Maybe 90 minutes from door to door.

My next one I think will be White Hall near Lexington on the 16th. But, who knows, it may be another one - stay tuned.

When People Are Big and God is Small - Welch

When I first picked up this book - many months ago - I had only heard great and wonderful things about it. And to be honest, the first half of the book is just that. Really convicting and helpful. Then the second half just fell short to me. I felt it was a mixture of psychobabble (not necessarily a negative term), a John Piper sermon (definitely not negative), and Gary Chapman books. I loved the concluding chapter - especially the part on Luther and Daniel. Here are some of the quotes that stood out to me:
"The praise of others - that wisp of a breeze that lasts for a moment - can seem more glorious to us than the praise of God. John 5.44." (p 40) Speaking in Gary Chapman terms - wholehearted, true words of affirmation are certainly important to me - one of my love languages. But, it is often hard for me to take a compliment - especially in areas where I feel weak.
"We spend too much time wondering what others may have thought about our outfit or the comment we made in the small group meeting." (p 40). Appearance is always important to girls. But, harshness comes when I am put down for my thoughts in a class or a small group - by someone I really admire or of whom I want approval. Maybe that comes from living in an educational world for so long - more than a fashion world (think The Devil Wears Prada vs Dead Poets Society). I grew up going to a small church in Plant City, FL. Everytime someone would have a new outfit on I would compliment them on it - or at least ask if that was a new outfit. No one ever said it to me, ok, hardly. My Mom would always cry over that with me - or for me. She knows encouragement and edification is one of my strong gifts - and hated it when it was never returned to me.
"I think that the application of Scripture to the details of our lives is great. My observation, however, is that these principles are not always embedded in the fear of the Lord. The result is that our goal can be self-improvement rather than the glory of the Holy God." (p 96) Wow - this is only hidden inward sin that most people hope no one else will ever see.
"The problem is not that we desire love, the problem is how much we desire it or for what purpose we desire it. Do we desire it so much that it overshadows our desire to be imitators of God? Do we desire it for our own pleasure of for God's glory." (p 149) Again, such a convicting statement - whether a person is single or married. Just was talking to a friend yesterday about contentment in different areas of life: single, married, kids, no kids, working, stay at home. We are never content. And as a paraphrase of CS Lewis - we will never be content outside of heaven.
"Self-serving needs are not meant to be satisfied - they are meant to be put to death." (p. 162)
I read Scripture with new eyes now. I read it and underline ways that the "actors" lived in fear of man rather than the fear of God - especially in the gospels. It happens so often - and also so often in our lives.

Football Season is coming!

Yes, the calendar is about to roll from July to August on Friday. When I was younger the most exciting thing that happened during the month of August was getting my supplies list from my classes at Lakeland Christian and hitting the stores! I had to have it all ready before I got to class the first day.
But, now, I have another reason, and definitely more important reason, to enjoy the month of August. It is the start to FOOTBALL SEASON! Whether it is NCAA or NFL - I can't wait. Of course the NFL doesn't really get going until September, there is pre-season. Most people like one or the other - but I definitely like both!
So, after looking here, I wanted to give you my news stories or random thoughts for the NCAA season that is almost upon us!
1. Of course I'll start with my team...GO GATORS! I am up here in enemy country - 1 hour from Kentucky and 4 hours from Tennessee. Oh, well - life goes on. We will see if Tim can have an amazing year, if Urban can still be a successful coach (maybe Tim will be successful in winning him to Christ), and if injuries and surgeries can heal properly so we can have an amazing running game and strong defense.
2. The other team I like and cheer for...TARHEELS! The two best blues are Gator Blue and Carolina blue! Now that Butch Davis has some recruiting under his belt - let's see what he can pull off this year. Maybe there will be a winning season for UNC in sports other than basketball and baseball.
3. Will the former SEC winnings of the UT asst coach come in handy at Duke? Will there actually be people pulling for the Blue Devils in their own stadium for home teams? We will see if the habits of the SEC can help the ACC.
4. UGA looks pretty good this year - they do indeed sit on top of many preseason bowls. We will see what happens come Halloween Weekend and the biggest tailgate party. But, I do have to say, I think Mark Richt is an amazing coach.
5. Oklahoma - how can I not pull for Bobby Stoops - amazing coach and former Gator! Always gotta cheer for those (even for the Fighting Illini).
6. The SEC again dominates the top 25 pre-season. Always a tough conference.

Hosanna - He Rules Them (Us, Me) By His Word

Reading before church and then going to a great church with great music - all go hand in hand. I'll start with my reading before church. Preparing to go in and meet with the presence of the Living God and to take communion - in honor and remembrance of the true meaning the gospel - good stuff.
The past few days God has been teaching me about my sin of discontentment - and yes - that is a sin. Not that we really like to call it that - but we must start calling a spade a spade - or a sin a sin. Christ died for my sin of discontentment. Oh, my...many areas of discontentment in my life. Being content does not mean that we got complacent. It means we are striving to please God in every thing we do and wherever we are in life - and are satisfied with Who He is for us and in us. It is when we realize that the things we don't have will not make us happy - only Christ will satisfy.
So, I picked out Psalm 61-63 to read, very convicting psalms to read in this area. Here is what I underlined...
61.2 - "Hear my cry...when my heart is faint." As I sat down to read the Word, I really didn't even want to read it. Sin is a heavy burden - and the sin of discontentment has weighed heavy this week.
61.3 - "for you have been my refuge" - my safe place, my place to run and be when I don't feel like doing anything else, when nothing else is safe and right, when emails aren't working, or facebook is down, or there is nothing on tv.
61.8 - "So I will ever sing praises to your name, as I perform my vows day after day." - Some Phyllis always said to me, even when I don't feel like it - read, pray, worship. Obedience and faithfulness even in trials or times of struggle.
62.5-8 - "My hope is from him, He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress, I shall not be shaken, On god rests my salvation and my glory, my mighty rock, my refuge is God, Trust in Him at all times, o people. Pour out your heart before Him. God is a refuge for us." - Oh the truth and goodness of that verse. I have come back to it time and time again. He listens to our hearts - He made our hearts - He knows our very longing - even those ones that continue and never seem to go away - He knows even those.
63.1 - "My soul thirsts for Him, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water." I was telling someone else today about a lack here in the ville - but God, you will never be my lack. Let me thirst for you - that is a cry and a prayer. Help it to be true of me.
63.3-4 - "Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live, in your name I will lift up my hands." - Love that song. Sang it with the college choir at the Summit. But, again - choice and obedience - faithfulness.
63.8 - "My soul clings to you, your right hand upholds me." - When there is nothing else...God is right there. Even in the lonely and hopeless times.
I also read in the Valley of Vision - wow, what a book, composed of Puritan prayers...
"Teach me to believe that if ever I would have any sin subdued, I must not only labour to overcome it, but must invite Christ to abide in the place of it. He must become to me more than vile lust had been, that his sweetness, power, life may be there. Though now I have his graces in part, I shall shortly have them perfectly in that state where thou wilt show thyself fully reconciled and alone sufficient, efficient, loving me completely, with sin abolished. O Lord, hasten the day."
What in the world does it look like (in practical terms) to have Christ live in place of my sin? It is preaching to myself the gospel every day. Oh, God - live in place of my sin. Your death paid that price.
Then, I got to church. We sang "O Great God" by Fernando Ortega and "Hosanna" brought to us by Hillsong. Man - great great songs! :) One of the lines in O Great God says he rules them by His Word. The song is talking about creation and all the things in it - but God also rules me by His Word - and I am thankful He chooses to speak!

Taylorsville Lake and Tom Sawyer

Here's the beginning of a new adventure!

Taylorsville Lake State Park: Only 40 minutes from Seminary. Pretty drive (once you get off the interstate). Reminds me of Marion and Lake County in FL. The lake is well marked of course. But, nothing else is. The lady at the campground registration wasn't that helpful. So, I walked about 20 feet and turned around. This would have been a good park to have someone else with to just explore off beaten paths...

Tom Sawyer: This one is in Louisville Metro. It wasn't as quite, but it was well-marked. It had everything from cornhole playgrounds, regular playgrounds, ball parks, soccer fields, a guy in an acrobatic plane, and a nature trail. I enjoyed that one.

Here are some pictures. Don't know which one is next - maybe some in Lexington since I'm going there in mid-August.

The Homegoing of a Faithful Servant

My Dad said it right last night - "When He made her, He broke the mold."
Dad called last night to tell my that my "aunt" Gladys had passed away. She is really my cousin, because she is my Dad's cousin - you would think after doing genealogy for 6 whole months I would know how everyone is related to me.
I remember days of traveling to Alabama to see my Dad's family. Aunt Gladys had a farm, with a hay loft, june bugs (they were pretty and Alan and I always chased them). She was up every morning in the 4am hour to milk the cows, make the biscuits, get breakfast ready for everyone. Her entire family lived near her. Alan and I would climb up into the hay loft and play for hours. It was back in the simple times.
She has been sick now for many years, but she was well into her 80s. She wanted to rest peacefully at home instead of in a hospital. My Dad has gotten to spend some time with her this past year, so that has been good. She knew Jesus. That is all that matters.
She loved her family - her family was everything to her. She worked and served her family to show them that she loved them. And I guarantee they knew that.
My prayers are many:
1. First, that the family would be comforted that Aunt Gladys is in no more pain and she is more importantly worshipping Jesus.
2. Second, that I might have a family to serve one day. Ok - so I don't think I'll ever have to milk cows - (even though my Dad always threatened me that I would marry a dairy farmer because I didn't like to get up early) - but I pray I can serve my family in some capacity at some point.
God - thank you for the example of Gladys Dyson. Thank you for her servant's heart, her ability to love and serve faithfully her family all these years. Thank you for taking her to be with you. Good and faithful servant. Amen.

New mission: Kentucky State Parks

My brother and sister-in-law and Justin Myers, a friend here at seminary, inspired this new mission. Alan and T love taking trips too. They visit state parks in FL and lighthouses (T and I just had this conversation a few weeks ago). Justin and his wife, Bonnie, love to travel as well. Justin and I were just talking about Tennessee state parks last week before my trip to E TN.
So, here it is. Since Kentucky isn't that big (and I mean that big, its not as big or long as the state of FL)...I would like to get to every state park.
These are some reasons why:
1. Free entry - only thing I have to pay for is gas.
2. Enjoying different aspects of God's creation.
3. Something to do that gets me out of Louisville
4. I won't sit in my apt and watch Food Network on Saturdays or Sunday mornings (since I go to church at night).
5. I love to camp if I have someone to do it with - any takers?
6. It'll be good exercise (to walk the trails, and varies from Cherokee and the parks here in the ville).
7. Because I can.
8. I love to travel
9. I love scenery pictures!

All of them are here: http://parks.ky.gov/default.htm
Can't wait. This weekend is Taylorsville Lake State Park. It is about 30 minutes away. It is the second closest - and I don't have a ton of time since I have to work on Sat morning.
I'll be posting pictures - so be on the lookout!

"I Kissed a Girl" and O'Reilly Factor

Ok - so really - what is up with culture? It is a culture that is falling deeper and deeper. Satan is the prince of this world as Scripture tells us.
I've been watching the O'Reilly factor. Tonight:
1. Obama in Europe - really putting down America in some way shape or form. Yes, watch the same broadcast on CNN and you'll get a totally different story. But, Europeans can't vote. Who cares?
2. Muslim dad who kills daughters - all for being too western. Do all Muslims kill their daughters - of course not. Do American Dads kill their daughters - it happens. What really is lacking is men being men and teaching their daughters about how to be women of God. But, that would mean that the Dads would need to know Jesus. Of course, a personal relationship with Jesus doesn't usually happen in Muslim culture. And it really doesn't happen too much in American societies either.
3. Katy song of "I Kissed a Girl". Dumb song, yes. Well sung song, no. Stupid video, yes. Reflective of the culture - in many ways. Here is how so:
a. We lie in relationships. (She wants to make her boyfriend jealous.)
b. Its all about us anyway - pride is huge!
c. Most of culture wants to "experiment" when it comes to their sexuality.
Bill and his guests were talking about what this song means for culture. It doesn't worry one of them. One wonders if parents will be nervous of their kids and what they listen to on the radio.
Now, is country music any better? No. There are all these songs out there about sexual acts or fooling around or bashing in headlights and keying a truck because the boyfriend cheats.
I think parents should be worried about what their kids listen to. I'm not even saying to "only listen to Christian music" - some of that has bad theology.
What I am saying is that parents should be active in their kids lives. Know what they listen to, watch, etc. That is what parents do. Parents are there just to dole out allowances and scrapbook. Parents - stand up and be parents. Christian parents - point them to Christ!

Tennessee and Friends (and mini LCS reunion)

This past weekend I took a trip to Eastern TN. It was great fun (except seeing Neyland stadium). Had a blast. This is who I saw:

Lisa Moseley - my best friend from high school. Stayed with her and her husband on Friday night. We got her hooked up on Facebook and watched some stupid race show and had fantastic cinnamon rolls and fruit for breakfast!

Jeremy Dollar - friend from Southeastern who is preparing to go to Las Vegas as a church planter. Pray for him.

Anthony and Rachel Tucker and all their 5 boys! This was unexpected but such a treat. Anthony owns Clumpy's ice cream in Chattanooga - so if you are there - go!

Jen Sagraves - my twin from high school, we sang together our Senior year and just did a bunch together. Her family (except for Steven) were all at church too. We met up with some of her friends from church and went to Barley's and the TN Riverfront. Had a blast!

Joe McKee - a friend from LCS. Joe's brother, J.O., was in my class. Joe came to hang out with us.

Randy Doss - a guy I graduated with and we went to LCS all the way through. Good to see him. God's grace is amazing. He is teaching and just got married.

Chad Ridner - he graduated a year ahead of me at LCS - has 3 kids and is working in Knoxville.

Seriously, I think we should hold our next reunion in TN.

Then on Monday, I saw more friends from Southeastern - Christina, Marcus, and little William. he was wired from sitting in a car. But, he had fun in the sprinklers and we all got to talk!

Humiliating Worship

What a title? But, I'm going to use the word humiliating in a different way than most commonly used.
I went to Cornerstone Church of Knoxville this weekend - part of Sovereign Grace Ministries. While the preaching was ok - the worship in music was great. I knew the songs (or most of them) - and there was a sense of freedom in a church that I rarely find outside of the Summit and ABC. in fact, I haven't had freedom like that in a church up here. Where you are free to worship as you choose and there is a large enough congregation (several hundred) where you don't feel like people are watching you. I know, that sounds a little like the fear of man - but its the truth.
During the singing - I looked over and saw a friend of mine from high school, clapping, lifting his hands in worship, singing (which he never would do in high school). That glimpse of God's amazing grace and the song we were singing (don't even remember what it was) dropped me to knees. I was - for the first time in a long time - on my knees in front of the God who is good enough to give me a glimpse of Who He is and what He can do.
I have long judged some of the people I went to high school with because you wonder what they are doing and hope they have changed, etc. But my life reflects just as much of a need of a Savior as their lives do. I am no better than they are. I was in awe of seeing classmates worship. God is so much bigger than what I did in high school - and He forgives my gossip, judgmental attitude toward them (both then and through the years).
Aren't you glad we serve such an amazing God? Even one that will allow us to come before Him on our knees with our hands lifted high in worship of Him
We must lose sight of ourselves.

The Walk - Michael Card

This is required reading in one of the classes here at Southern. So, once I heard a rave review about it - I thought I would pick it up as well. This book is mainly about discipleship - and living life together. And since that is my biggest heartbeat for the church, especially for women and for the ladies in my life - I really enjoyed it. It is also a quick read of 150 pages.
"Of all that makes our faith unique and true, one feature especially stands out: the Incarnation of Jesus of Nazareth" (22) One of the famous Young Life quotes we used in ministry was "be Jesus with skin on". Jesus was God with skin on - for us - to see the very face of God. No, none of us were there while He walked this earth, but we have very clear and true pictures of that life on earth from Scripture.
"Discipleship is peripatetic" (23)- I learned a new word. But, this just means living life - walking - with someone. This whole book is about a relationship between Michael Card and his mentor, Bill Lane. They modeled this - through the ups and downs of life, and eventually, even through Bill's death from cancer in 1999.
"You must develop a lifestyle of listening" (67) This is one of the things I struggle with most in life. I multitask so much in my life that when I am just sitting having a conversation one on one with someone (especially over the phone) - my mind wanders. I either think about how to help them (if they come to me with a problem) or I think about what I'm going to do when I get off the phone, or I think about what I'm going to say next (its all about me - see a problem).
"Trust His sufficiency" (86) This was indeed one of my profound statements in the book. Jesus is my sufficiency. I don't need knowledge, lots of friends, a busy schedule, a great job, great cooking skills, speaking engagements, a wedding ring, kids, long life...I just need Jesus.
"Let the excellence of your work be your protest" (96) Another aspect of my life that I don't like to admit to most people is how critical I am. I am critical of myself, of churches, of others, or situations. My Dad called me out on this not too long ago - and I know exactly from where it comes - but that is no excuse. So, instead of being critical of other things or people - I need to shut my mouth and let my life live out loud in response to what I see. Hopefully, others will see God's goodness and grace through me - and not here criticism always coming out of my mouth.
"Deeper down in a more selfish place, I am afraid of what my world will be like without him in it" (110). He was talking about his friend Bill here. But, this resonated with me today for some reason. It may be that I live far away from many friends and family who are very dear to me, but community with them is slightly harder now that I live so far away. It may be because my brother and sister in law are going on the mission field shortly and won' t just be a plane ride away. It may be because my parents are on vacation, so I haven't been in constant email communication with my Mom. How true, that even in death, we are selfish.
"Have a value system founded on God's Word" (143). My first mentor, Phyllis, taught me this more than anything else. The 3x5 cards in her house, on her walls. Journals everywhere of her prayers for her family (and thankfully me). Her mornings filled with the Word. This is where I learned to love the Word. I pray that this is one of the things I gave my girls - those who I have had the privilege to walk beside over the years.
Are you in a Paul/Timothy relationship with someone? If so, thank God for them and continue that. If not, pray God would lead someone to you or vice versa.
Great book.

Feminism and Language

This has been a topic I've been thinking of recently. No matter what stage of life you are in as a woman - this applies to you (and to me).
How important is our language? I'm mostly talking about words and tones here - not body language (that is a whole different topic).
Why does it offend me more when I hear women using cuss words or speaking of sexual topics?
Why does it sadden me when I hear women arguing with or defaming their husbands or other male leaders in their lives?
This is what I am NOT saying: I am not saying that women can't talk about tools, cars, football, etc. I am not saying that women can only talk about babies, tea, shopping, baking, decorating, and makeup. As many of you know me - I love football and seldom talk about makeup. That kind of language is not what I am referring to.
I am more referring to warrior terms, battle terms, pastoral terms (pastor role in a church), cussing, language that tears down others, sexual language that is not meant to be talked about outside of a bedroom of a married (male/female) bedroom (and sometimes not even then because it belittles and secularizes the act of sex that God meant for our good as a husband and wife).
Why does it make me just a little uneasy when I hear of women going and fighting in the wars? Why do I cringe when I hear a woman in the pulpit? Why do I hate watching movies where women are in bars or gossiping about things that they shouldn't be talking about?
I think there are a couple of reasons:
1. We are not obeying Col 3.16: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
2. We are not obeying Prov 4.24: Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you.
3. We are not obeying Prov 5.3: For the lips of a forbidden woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil. (We are being the forbidden woman.)
4. We are not obeying Col 4.6: Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
5. We are not being like the P31 woman in that we do not follow these three traits: The heart of her husband trusts in her,and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life and she opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue (Prov 31.11, 12, 26).
So, how can we change this disobedience to obedience?
1. Build up the men in your lives. Encourage them in their masculinity, in the roles that God has created them for, in their walk with Christ. This applies to a Dad, husband, pastor, boss, and your brothers in Christ.
2. Think about what is going to come out of your mouth before it actually does.
3. Watch and read with eyes wide open. Engage your world with a biblical worldview.
4. Encourage other women in your life (your younger women) to be setting the example in speech (as 1 Tim 4.12 says).

Begrudging God's Generosity

Currently, I'm reading through Matthew in my quiet times. And how many times have I heard this parable - yet the faithfulness of the Spirit is quick to teach me new things from the Word.
Matthew 20 is the story of the laborers in the vineyard. Where the master hires workers at different times during the day, but each one getting the same wage. Here is the end response of the master after being questions by the workers who started at the beginning of the day:
"Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?"
I often do this - ok, no I don't want a denarius for working in the field all day. Here is how this applies to me.
I often wonder why I am not actively involved in a paid ministry position at some church - I have a seminary degree?
Why aren't I married? Other people are.
Why don't I...
The list goes on and on....
How I begrudge the generosity of God just a bit (at first) when I hear of friends who get pregnant or get a ministry job or are planning their wedding.
Why? I was created in God's image and what did I do with it - spat on it. Turned away from it.
And yet...God's generosity gave me His Son (Rom 2.4). Out of His Supreme Plan He chose me. Yet - I mock His generosity?
How do you begrudge the generosity of God?

My First Blog Interview

How cool is this! Alli has a great blog over at http://www.girlsfortruth.com/ - and she was up here at Southern for an apologetics camp. Steve Wright at Providence had introduced us (thanks Steve and Facebook) so we got to eat lunch and hang out one day while she was here. Even through all the interruptions -

Alli - I appreciate your heart, your eagerness for learning and for the Word, for ministry to your friends and family.

Thank you - it was a privilege!

John Adams - HBO mini-series

This movie (series) was much better than I thought it would be. Of course, I love American history - but this movie (as my Dad pointed out when he sent it to me) was more about John Adams' personal life and his involvement with history rather than merely history itself.
What a great insight. A Believer in Almighty and Providential God. A faithful husband to one wife of 54 years. A strong believer in his country. I loved the last line of this series something to this effect: If you do not take care to guard the freedom of this country - I will repent from above for ever having fought for it.
One thing that I also really liked about the movie is that Tom Hanks and McCullough and other folks in charge did not wish to paint his family life as perfect. His one son Charles died of alcoholism I would assume - he was an alcoholic and all the problems that went along with it. He didn't like his son-in-law after he made many mistakes - only to reconcile after his daughter's death. He was in charge of his family - but not always in a good way. He didn't have a great relationship with any of his children. He said after JQ had been elected President that he was the proudest then.
This is what I fear - and I do write this after crying much through the last DVD (as Leah warned) - that I would ever lose someone that I loved so much. But I also fear that I will never have the chance to love that much (as John lost his Dear Friend, Abigail). So...that is my final thought.
If you get a chance, take 8 hours of your time and watch this movie. It would be in America's best interest to get President's with some of Adams' qualities...but I fear there aren't too many left in the world like him.

Coffee & Church

Ok - folks, hear me out. This MERE OPINION. This is not a Biblical mandate, this is not a black and white issue. It is more of a cultural phenomenon.

Growing up in Strawberry country in Lakeland/Plant City FL, I never remember and I mean never - people bringing anything to drink into the service with them. Sometimes when my Mom would go to coughing, I'd have to go to the back closet room to the water fountain and get her one of those Dixie cups to drink. That is all. Even when I switched to a SBC church, I don't even remember having coffee/tea/water in the foyer... We had breakfast in SS but that was it - we wouldn't dare bring it into church.

In all of the churches post-high school that I have been a part of - no matter how conservative or contemporary - all have had coffee in their foyer/sanctuary. This is my thought:

1. Is the church hour no longer a separate time that we come in to God's presence, worship, fellowship - leaving the World out?

2. Are we so living in a Starbucks/Caribou/Java world that we can't do without it for not even 2 hours on a Sunday morning?

Great - have it in the foyer, mingle over it before the service starts - I think that is a great idea...but can't we do without our addictions during the worship service? Just a thought...

Night - Elie Wiesel

This book was a long time coming for me. I have wanted to read it for a while, picked it up about a year ago, and it finally went on the summer reading list. I started it this morning in the housing office and finished it at Cherokee Park this afternoon.
So many emotions went through my mind as I read this today. There were tears as I read about the emotions and torments that this then teenager went through at the hands of Hitler and his puppets. One can understand why Elie and other were mad at God as they tried to figure out why they should still praise the One who is allowing all of this to happen - how He he isn't there for His people, He's not the Messiah during WW2. How are Jews still supposed to praise the One who allowing this slaughter of His people to occur.
The last main emotion was near the end of the story, after all his family had died, he tells of the Americans coming in and stopping the torture. I was so proud to be an American. If we have the resources - shouldn't we protect the ones who are being slaughtered or tortured by those in control over them? Shouldn't we fight on their behalf - whether they are "Americans" or not - because all men and women are created in the image of God - we are all equal in worth.
Anyway, this is a great read - and a fast one - just because you really don't want to put it down. If you have any interest in WW2, Hitler's regime, the story of pain in another person - read this book. No wonder Oprah had it on her "list".

Jill McCloghry - Amazing Girl and Song/video

This girl - and song - is amazing. I've known Jill since she was in 7th grade - have watched her grow, sing, struggle, grow, lean on Jesus, learn about Jesus, grow in Jesus, grow, struggle, keep growing and loving Jesus - she is great.
She is now way too far away from her "home" - living in Australia with her husband Matt.
This story of this song took place this February.
I love Psalms 34.1-3. My worship leader at the Summit embed it in our memories, quoting it often. This girl is a living breathing testimony of it. I pray as you watch this video - that you will look at the hard times in your life the same way. She sings truth! She is an amazing girl and someone I love (and miss) dearly. She exudes Jesus and devotion to Him when she sings/plays. Love you Jilly. Thanks for being an example of someone who loves Jesus and praises Him even in the crying times.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZE33ejdgWIY

A Passion for God - Dorsett

This is a quick read biography of the preacher and author Aiden Wilson Tozer (otherwise known as A.W.). Dorsett does a great job of not only showing the many facets of what A.W. was about - but also showing his weaknesses - so as not to put A.W. up on a pedestal - but to point his readers to the God whom A.W. served.
Before reading this book, I knew (give or take) two things about Tozer. One was that he wrote The Pursuit of God. Two was that he wrote The Knowledge of the Holy. Great books. You need to read them if you haven't. But, after reading this book this week - I now know 3 more important things about this man who knew his God intimately.
1. He loved college students. This is important to me because I love college students. He preached several years at a church in Chicago. The Sunday night sermons were well-attended to overflowing the sanctuary by nearby college students from MBI and Wheaton. He poured his life into many of them, mentoring them, encouraging them to read and study, and also to be engaged in world missions and church planting. (Does that sound familiar - I think the Summit does a great job with their college staff).
2. He loved to read. He dropped out of school at 14 never to return, but has 2 honorary doctorates and probably has more knowledge about subjects than people with two real doctorates have. He spent so much time learning and reading and studying - and pouring that information and that desire to other people. Definitely one that would agree with Piper and Lewis on the idea of chronological snobbery when it comes to reading.
3. He wasn't a husband of great intimacy, nor a father of the same. He was faithful with never any worries as to affairs - but Ada (his wife of 45 years) scarcely knew intimacy with him - to the contrary - they had 7 kids. Those kids, minus the youngest and only daughter - hardly knew intimacy with their father. So sad that a man who knew his God so well and knew books and knew the children in the church's nursery - couldn't show intimacy with his only wife and several kids. One thing I do know for sure - if A.W. Tozer had written a book on marriage - I wouldn't be reading it.
But, even knowing that he wasn't a doting husband or father - doesn't negate his writings, sermons, or life. I am grateful for Dorsett who didn't cover up Tozer's weaknesses - but expressed them us his readers in this book. One doesn't negate all of a person's teaching just because they are not adequate in all areas.

"Don’t let summer make your soul shrivel"

This is a Piper quote that I found today on www.girltalk.blogs.com. They've been running a series, mostly for young families (though not designed that way) on summer fun, food, family activities, learning activities, etc. This was today's.
I really like this quote - even though I'm probably not doing too great it right now.
I am reading two books: A Passion for God - a biography on A.W. Tozer - so far it is great. I love biographies. And A Godly Man's Picture is the book I'm using the supplement my Psalms reading in the Word for my quiet time - this is a great book - thanks to Mike Hall for recommending it.
I'm still in the search for a church as well - that hasn't helped my soul all year since moving here - maybe by fall I'll have a better idea. This weekend I'll be at Clifton near campus.
One practical discipline I am engaging in this summer is hospitality. I am trying to plan my schedule so I can have one friend or couple over for dinner each week. This allows me to keep practicing my cooking, but also do better at engaging people, getting to know them, give them grace as they have shown me, etc. This week I am making dinner for a new prof and his family and having lunch with a girl from GA and then ending the week with dinner with Ali - a new friend who is dating an old friend.
So, what are you doing this summer to "not let your soul shrivel"?

Movies and Theology

This weekend I was housesitting, so I spent the time watching movies and playing fetch with the dog, Palmer. Movies are a great way for me to do nothing - I love it. But, as I was watching them (as I usually do), I try to think critically about them (Bruce Ashford taught me this and then Jason Wilson taught a really good Life class on this very subject at FBCOC).
So, here are some of my thoughts:
Italian Job: I love this movie. Why? Who knows? As I talked with my friend Lindsay - we both love "stealing" movies. Why is this? Anyway...one of the lines that both Donald Sutherland and Charlize Theron use is: "I trust everyone, just not the devil inside them". What does this say about the doctrine of original sin? This would presume that men are basically good and that we "give in to the dark side" of Satan and his schemes - and that's what makes us bad. This goes against Romans in this way: (Romans 5.12 - Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.)
Also in this movie...we cheer on the bad guys. We want them to succeed in sinning. They steal the bricks of gold and we cheer for them. Then they have to steal it back from the guy who stole it from them. Handsome Rob sleeps with the cable lady to get her key. They hire hit men to finish their job at the train station. We laugh when Napster buys the speakers he really wants that "blows women's clothes right off". Why do we laugh and cheer on the sin that people do in these movies.
I mean think about some of your fave movies: the couple that sleeps together before they get married (we think its so sweet, ok the girls do at least), we more than likely want the affair to really last because her husband wasn't as nice to her as the new guy. Get my point...
Another serious thought and another of my fave movies: Minority Report. The question of predestination. DC creates "Pre-Crime" - those murders or other crimes seen by the pre-cogs and so they get stopped right before they happen. Did they happen? No. Were they going to? Yes? What about the ball that was going drop but got caught - then it didn't drop, so was it really ever going to drop? This provides good food for thought: Is God's preknowledge (predestination, foreknowledge) causal? I'll let you ponder that for a while. Also, in the simulation shop where the guy meets Agatha - he bows to her like she is a god because she can foresee the future. Yet, when some people think of God's Absolute and real foreknowledge - they don't like it because it restricts them in some way? Do you see where I'm going with this "thinking and engaging"?
So where should our line be in watching movies/tv shoes? To engage the culture what are we willing to watch. This thought was on www.boundless.org as they were discussing Sex in the City. Why would Christian reviewers even need to worry about this movie: we know what it is about and we know what we are going to see. So, do I even need to watch it? I would say no.
My main point in this blog is to hopefully encourage you to engage your mind while watching movies, tv shoes, reading books. Engage the Culture!

The Welcoming Hearth - Skoglund

Contemplating Hospitality - this book has made that easier.
This is an older book (1993) I found at a used bookstore for 3$. It was worth it - even if just to give me ideas and help me think about what I need to be doing.
She peppered (no pun intended) the book with recipes and cooking/hostessing tips. She also shared much of her heritage and growing up tales with her readers as well. It was a very personable book - to fit in with the topic of hospitality.
"In contrast, true hospitality has the feeling of the hearth. It stands in opposition to the coldness and depersonalization of the world outside. It provides a temporary respite that remains in the memory and refurbishes long after it is past." (4) When I read these sentences, I thought back to the Robshaw home. I remember sitting in a chair in front of her fire place sipping green tea. Also, many times sitting at her counter in the kitchen or her dining room table. What treats they were for me. First time that I remember was months after meeting them, they invited me back to spend VBS week with them at their house - and I was asked to eat Jill's b-day with them as a family. This is true hospitality.
"The sense of hospitality has to start from within. The act of hospitality is the outgrowth of an attitude." (9) If you want to use this gift more - ask the Spirit to cultivate it within you - as it is a gift of the Spirit.
"We are to offer hospitality under the direction of him who has become the Lord of our lives in this area of service as well as every other." (31) We can not effectively share hospitality with others without having Jesus be Lord of our lives. It is not about impressing others, it is not about showing off skills (this is tough for me - an area of pride). But, live under the Spirit who has made us free from the bondage of sin.

eHarmony Radio Commercial

Disclaimer: This is not a blog about my thoughts pertaining to online dating as a whole - just a commercial I heard yesterday on the radio.
Online dating - our tvs are bombarded with commercials and now so are our radio stations. eHarmony is supposedly the "Christian" online dating service. As I was driving out to my friends' house yesterday to do some babysitting - I heard this and really just laughed at it.
The "commentator" came on and said life is so busy, we work, come home, walk the dog, eat something, watch a little television, and go to bed. Who has time do think about dating and finding the right person to date. That's where eHarmony comes in - we take all the guess work, hard work out of it.
Of course I am paraphrasing some, but that was the basic of it. Let me tell you...dating is hard. A friend of mine said "your dating time should be the easiest because it only gets harder." In some ways I agree with that. But, that is not to say that dating isn't tough.
Dating is tough because both people are sinners - both people want their own way. It is tough because we daily fight the battle of sin for purity in a filthy world when it comes to sexual temptations. It is tough because you are trying to discern from God if this is the person you are supposed to spend the rest of your life with - while not trying to put too much pressure on the relationship.
One of the first dating books I read was Josh Harris' I Kissed Dating Goodbye. How do we fit those principles (accountability, the male leadership in every aspect of the relationship, the community of family and the church) in with easy online dating?
Dating - which should lead to marriage - and marriage is a grace gift of God (our loving heavenly Father) to refine us and make us more into the image of His Son. That isn't easy. Not at least while we live in the flesh.

Presidential Voting Come November

What should be the determining factor on why we should vote for a President?
I heard David Horner, pastor of Providence Baptist Church in Raleigh, say "its all about me - what can you do for me" as the question most people use to mark their ballot. Is that why we should vote?
With Obama winning the Democratic nominee (whatever that means) last night, I have seen many blogs that state how that is such a great news. All based on the fact that he is African-American (along with many other backgrounds) and that he is now running for president. On a purely racial standpoint - I think that is great. I don't think it should be a matter of skin color if you get in Office or not. But - is that a reason to vote for a president?
No.
Now, if an African American is running and he is better qualified than the other candidates - I'll vote for him. But, I'm not going to vote for him primarily on skin color. That is what I fear many will do come November. And based on Obama's age.
Is McCain older - yes. That is a given fact. But, he has years more experience than Obama. I'm not arguing that his experience is great - but he has more of it. .
It seems like we want a president who can be our pal and do things we want - even while killing babies and raising taxes.
What should the goal of the president be? Some, but not all, should be: to make America better (both now and in the future), to allow Americans to make an impact on the world, to lead a people who is diverse and multi-cultural/racial/religious, etc.
I know there will always be taxes, issues with health care, problems with wars in the world - it is all part of the world we live in.
I want to know 2 main things when I go to the voting precinct in November: who will allow babies to be born - is there a candidate who will put an end - or head in that direction - to abortion. And who has the better character? Character is not told in their tax history, their income, their stance on war...
And this year - those two questions might not be able to be answered. This is honestly the first year I remember where I do not believe we have a good candidate running for President.
But, what does that mean I do.
It means:
1. Vote anyway - make the most educated decision I can.
2. Pray for whoever wins. Romans 13 and Psalm 2 say that God is Sovereign even over the kings (our President) and has placed all government in place.
3. Do not "bad-mouth" whoever wins. I can not poke fun at, join in on jokes, slander, or anything on whoever is my next president. That is questioning the Sovereignty of God.
4. I must remember that God is ultimately in charge of this country and world. I obey Him.
Start thinking now as to how God would have you vote in November. This is going to be an election for the history books.

Want of Wonder

I have this quote on my fb page:
"The world will never starve for want of wonders, but only for want of wonder."
G K Chesterton
This weekend was no exception to that.
Getting out on the river (Suwannee) on Friday morning was great. It was beautiful weather all weekend. Couldn't have asked for more pleasant weather. We played boggle, Phase 10, Mexican Train dominoes. We watched a movie Alan made on his Margaritaville Tour in Charlie. I swam in Manatee Springs - gorgeous although cold. We watched turtles, were surprised at sturgeons jumping in the water, lazied down the river, went hiking in a state park, grilled great food, swatted yellow flies and little moths and noseeums (gnats), laid out, watched the lightning flash across the calm river, slept....anything else...
The Psalmist says tons of it in a psalm I read aloud on the top deck on Saturday morning right as the sun was peeking over the trees on the bank up river from Manatee Springs:
Ps 136.4-9
to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures forever; to him who by understanding made the heavens, for his steadfast love endures forever; to him who spread out the earth above the waters, for his steadfast love endures forever; to him who made the great lights,for his steadfast love endures forever; 8 the sun to rule over the day, for his steadfast love endures forever; the moon and stars to rule over the night, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Here are some highlight:
1. The calm still river in the early morning or the late night.
2. The sparkling clear water in the Springs that was 72 degrees and beautiful.
3. Fish and all the different ones out there.
4. Lightning and how amazingly it can light up a night sky (I think of the Tomlin song).
5. Cumulous (sp?) clouds that loom so high
6. Sunsets from a plane that illustrate that God is indeed an SEC fan (all in one shot: UT orange, UF orange, UF blue, dots of UGA red). It was marvelous! Then it went to periwinkle, charcoal, with yellow rims from the sun. Then the sun came out more and sent rays down - you know those ones that shine in your house that pick up the dust. These looked like you could just ride them like a slide all the way to the ground.
7. Clouds - that even though they seem like air - they pack a punch when a plane goes through it and tosses a huge piece of metal around like a feather, but we can waft right through the middle of them.
8. Twinkling lights. Ty and I sat for a long time on the front of the boat on Friday night watching the stars come on - literally. It seemed like they would twinkle for a bit then stay on. Almost like God would flip a switch and another one would come on. Made me want to sing "twinkle twinkle little star" but I refrained. It was an amazingly beautiful night.
I am so glad I serve a creative and unique and brilliant Creator.
I come out of this weekend knowing awe, wonder, and loneliness. And unsatisfied that my time by the water has come to an end - oh, how I miss it! :)
Thankful for both my parents who we were celebrating this weekend: Mom (60) and Dad (67). Thanks to A for grilling. Thanks to Ty for playing games and hiking with me (especially the spider web that was being made into a perfect circle!
Pictures to come later this week!