If you are looking for a book to read cover to cover with one continuous story or theme, this is not the book for you. However, The Lucado Inspirational Reader by none other than Max Lucado is a great book to refer to for anecdotes, quotes, and inspiration on various topics related to Christ and Christian living.
I read through it as if it were a novel, but I would suggest taking more time to read and digest.
Lucado has an interesting style of relating Bible stories and characters to modern times and giving a personality to various situations and characters. His style is very relational and comfortable. If, like me, you are interested in reading some inspiring quotes from Max Lucado without buying a whole set of his books, this book gives you excerpts from many of his writings, categorized for ease of reference.
I plan on keeping this book around and may refer to it from time to time depending on the various stages I might be going through. I think that is what this book would be most useful for, reading it as you need it. And I don't think it will disappoint in those times of need.
I would suggest this book for anybody to keep around. You can get a copy of it at Amazon or at Thomas Nelson.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review program.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Mount Pleasy
Big News!
Kassie and I believe God is leading us to move back to the land of the pleasant mountains, aka Mount Pleasant.
That's about all we've got for now. Thanks for your prayers and support.
Kassie and I believe God is leading us to move back to the land of the pleasant mountains, aka Mount Pleasant.
That's about all we've got for now. Thanks for your prayers and support.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
What Am I Doing?
What am I supposed to be doing? Sharing God with everybody, everyday, everywhere.
What am I doing? Watching TV, playing games on facebook, thinking about myself and my problems, going through the motions.
I guess something needs to change. What are YOU doing?
What am I doing? Watching TV, playing games on facebook, thinking about myself and my problems, going through the motions.
I guess something needs to change. What are YOU doing?
Friday, November 11, 2011
Weddings
I am excited to see my family this weekend and witnessing my sister Kelsey getting married to Joe Nowell.
I am also looking forward to a trip to Chicago next month, seeing my family again, and seeing my other sister, Amy, get married to Alex Vimont.
I have a wonderful family. Praise God and thanks for being so great!
I am also looking forward to a trip to Chicago next month, seeing my family again, and seeing my other sister, Amy, get married to Alex Vimont.
I have a wonderful family. Praise God and thanks for being so great!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Our Last Great Hope by Ronnie Floyd
Many of us have heard of "The Great Commission." Some of us may have even memorized the verses that contain the charge from Jesus to share the gospel throughout the world. How many of us, though, as a individuals and churches, actually live out the great commission in our daily lives?
This book Our Last Great Hope by Ronnie Floyd encourages and challenges believers to do just that. It is a book that should not and cannot be taken lightly. Once you start reading it, you must either be willing to change your thinking and your life or you must stop reading.
It took me quite a while to read this book. I tend to have several books that I am reading at one time. The one I finish first is usually the most entertaining and easy to read. This book was not the one I finished first. However, it is one that I will likely pass on to others. In fact, after reading part of the section which discusses our use of money I offered it to my pastor to use in his upcoming sermon.
Our church is currently in a process called ReVision in which we are rethinking what our purpose is as a church, how we are doing at fulfilling that purpose and how we can change to fulfill that purpose more effectively. I hope to interject many of the ideas of Our Last Great Hope into this process and will encourage other leaders to read it.
I did not always appreciate the delivery. At many points throughout the book I felt as if the author were writing from a "holier than thou" position. Yet, I cannot escape the message. Whether humbly conveyed or not in this book, the message it contains is one that Christians, especially Christian leaders, need to hear and allow to change their life.
This book was provided free for review by BookSneeze®.
This book Our Last Great Hope by Ronnie Floyd encourages and challenges believers to do just that. It is a book that should not and cannot be taken lightly. Once you start reading it, you must either be willing to change your thinking and your life or you must stop reading.
It took me quite a while to read this book. I tend to have several books that I am reading at one time. The one I finish first is usually the most entertaining and easy to read. This book was not the one I finished first. However, it is one that I will likely pass on to others. In fact, after reading part of the section which discusses our use of money I offered it to my pastor to use in his upcoming sermon.
Our church is currently in a process called ReVision in which we are rethinking what our purpose is as a church, how we are doing at fulfilling that purpose and how we can change to fulfill that purpose more effectively. I hope to interject many of the ideas of Our Last Great Hope into this process and will encourage other leaders to read it.
I did not always appreciate the delivery. At many points throughout the book I felt as if the author were writing from a "holier than thou" position. Yet, I cannot escape the message. Whether humbly conveyed or not in this book, the message it contains is one that Christians, especially Christian leaders, need to hear and allow to change their life.
This book was provided free for review by BookSneeze®.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Harbor Beach People
Today is Saturday, and it was one of those "not much is planned, but there's a lot to do" kind of days.
This morning Kassie, Aurelia and I met with Pam Schantz and the Pysklos to discuss Remix. We had a good conversation and figured out something things we need to accomplish before the informational meeting next week. During the end of that meeting a somewhat familiar face came into McDonalds Deli, a blast from the past. It was the mother of Chris, Bruce and Dean McNeal. I haven't seen any of them or heard from them in quite a long time but it reminded me of the time when Chris and I were friends.
This afternoon, I went to Saginaw to run some errands for our family and for the youth group. Of course, many Harbor Beach people end up, or at least pass through, Saginaw usually due to connections with SVSU or another college in the area.
I stopped at the strip mall containing The UPS store, Guitar Center, Best Buy, etc. As I was pulling in, I noticed Harbor Freight Tools (I think that's what it's called) was having a sale. Being a man, I was interested in a sale on tools. Plus we needed a hammer. So, I went in. After looking around for a while, overwhelmed by all the tools I wish I knew how to use, I was stopped by one of the employees, who happened to be Nick Sanislo. It was cool catching up with him a little bit and interesting to find out that his family is in the middle of a busy wedding season, similar to my family.
Next, I went to the UPS store where I was surprised by the efficiency of the visit. I had ordered something and needed to return it. The company I had gotten from sent me a shipping label. So, all I had to do was give the package to the guy there and walk out.
After walking out I went to Dunhams where I thought I might look for some soccer cleats and/or check out the toe shoes if they had any. I didn't see any toe shoes, and there selection of soccer boots wasn't impressive.
I went on to Guitar Center to try out some acoustic guitars. I thought mine was having problems recently but realized it was just my cable. Nevertheless, my guitar isn't great quality (it's from China), and we are almost out of debt so we might be able to save up for a new guitar sometime. Clinging to that hope, I entered Guitar Center and was met by none other than Jason Guitar. We had a brief exchange and he went on his busy way as I went to try out guitars. I found one I liked quite a bit, a Martin. I tried all kinds, Ibanez, Seagull, Takamine, Taylor, some brand I had never heard of, and another brand I had heard of but don't remember. I ended up really liking a Martin, though. I wanted to buy it right then, but I don't think that would have made Kassie very happy.
Well, it's time for dinner. Gotta go.
This morning Kassie, Aurelia and I met with Pam Schantz and the Pysklos to discuss Remix. We had a good conversation and figured out something things we need to accomplish before the informational meeting next week. During the end of that meeting a somewhat familiar face came into McDonalds Deli, a blast from the past. It was the mother of Chris, Bruce and Dean McNeal. I haven't seen any of them or heard from them in quite a long time but it reminded me of the time when Chris and I were friends.
This afternoon, I went to Saginaw to run some errands for our family and for the youth group. Of course, many Harbor Beach people end up, or at least pass through, Saginaw usually due to connections with SVSU or another college in the area.
I stopped at the strip mall containing The UPS store, Guitar Center, Best Buy, etc. As I was pulling in, I noticed Harbor Freight Tools (I think that's what it's called) was having a sale. Being a man, I was interested in a sale on tools. Plus we needed a hammer. So, I went in. After looking around for a while, overwhelmed by all the tools I wish I knew how to use, I was stopped by one of the employees, who happened to be Nick Sanislo. It was cool catching up with him a little bit and interesting to find out that his family is in the middle of a busy wedding season, similar to my family.
Next, I went to the UPS store where I was surprised by the efficiency of the visit. I had ordered something and needed to return it. The company I had gotten from sent me a shipping label. So, all I had to do was give the package to the guy there and walk out.
After walking out I went to Dunhams where I thought I might look for some soccer cleats and/or check out the toe shoes if they had any. I didn't see any toe shoes, and there selection of soccer boots wasn't impressive.
I went on to Guitar Center to try out some acoustic guitars. I thought mine was having problems recently but realized it was just my cable. Nevertheless, my guitar isn't great quality (it's from China), and we are almost out of debt so we might be able to save up for a new guitar sometime. Clinging to that hope, I entered Guitar Center and was met by none other than Jason Guitar. We had a brief exchange and he went on his busy way as I went to try out guitars. I found one I liked quite a bit, a Martin. I tried all kinds, Ibanez, Seagull, Takamine, Taylor, some brand I had never heard of, and another brand I had heard of but don't remember. I ended up really liking a Martin, though. I wanted to buy it right then, but I don't think that would have made Kassie very happy.
Well, it's time for dinner. Gotta go.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Vent
I ordered an Xbox 360 with Kinect for the youth group and got it and am trying to set it up for the 5th quarter party tonight, but I am having some difficulties and I am on my 3rd support person.
The first one was from the company I bought it from and they just kept saying to put in a game and that will fix it.
The second told me to download an update and put it onto a USB flash drive and insert that into the console, but that did nothing either.
We'll see what happens...maybe no Kinect for 5th quarter tonight. Maybe God is trying to tell me that I shouldn't be spending the youth budget on video games and stuff.
On a more positive, but equally (if not more) weird, note, I also received something else I had ordered for the youth group, some guitar strings. I ordered one set of strings and ended up getting 10 sets, for the price of one, and that price was good to begin with! I am not sure whether to tell amazon to see if there was some kind of mistake or to see if I can get another box of 10 sets for the price of 1.
The first one was from the company I bought it from and they just kept saying to put in a game and that will fix it.
The second told me to download an update and put it onto a USB flash drive and insert that into the console, but that did nothing either.
We'll see what happens...maybe no Kinect for 5th quarter tonight. Maybe God is trying to tell me that I shouldn't be spending the youth budget on video games and stuff.
On a more positive, but equally (if not more) weird, note, I also received something else I had ordered for the youth group, some guitar strings. I ordered one set of strings and ended up getting 10 sets, for the price of one, and that price was good to begin with! I am not sure whether to tell amazon to see if there was some kind of mistake or to see if I can get another box of 10 sets for the price of 1.
Hello Dear Friends,
We had what I believe was the highest attendance since I have been leading the Uncommon Youth Ministry at Kingston Wesleyan Church. Wednesday was our kick-off event for the school year. We had Matt Moore and Josh THO bless us not only with their music but also their smiles, stories, and hearts for God.
It was awesome!
We also had pizza (you shoulda been there)
We had what I believe was the highest attendance since I have been leading the Uncommon Youth Ministry at Kingston Wesleyan Church. Wednesday was our kick-off event for the school year. We had Matt Moore and Josh THO bless us not only with their music but also their smiles, stories, and hearts for God.
It was awesome!
We also had pizza (you shoulda been there)
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Blown
My mind is a little bit blown right now.
Not only is today the first day of school for the students I work with, which means many different types of ministry are starting, rebooting, or simply changing, but I am also in the middle of a likely position change.
I don't know how much of the following I have mentioned in my blog, but at least some of it will be new. The two ministry job thing isn't really working. I would like to do more with each but am limited by time, being one person, etc. I had convinced myself as well as both of my bosses, I think, that the best direction for me, and for us, would be to transition to being full-time with YFC while maintaining involvement but not employment at the church.
The summer has been difficult for Kassie and I, but recently it has begun to change, for the the better. And along with working on our marriage and talking more freely and openly with each other and others, a new possibility has come up, one that I did not think was a possibility. That is, the possibility of transitioning to a full-time position with the Kingston Wesleyan Church instead of Youth For Christ. Since its inception, the idea has developed into a probably direction. Kassie, most importantly, is on board with it. Secondly, Pastor Len seems to welcome it. Thirdly, Todd Cramer seems to be surprisingly supportive of it.
At this point, I can't say that it will happen, but I can say I would appreciate your prayers and hope this update is helpful as you pray for us.
Also, thanks for reading.
Not only is today the first day of school for the students I work with, which means many different types of ministry are starting, rebooting, or simply changing, but I am also in the middle of a likely position change.
I don't know how much of the following I have mentioned in my blog, but at least some of it will be new. The two ministry job thing isn't really working. I would like to do more with each but am limited by time, being one person, etc. I had convinced myself as well as both of my bosses, I think, that the best direction for me, and for us, would be to transition to being full-time with YFC while maintaining involvement but not employment at the church.
The summer has been difficult for Kassie and I, but recently it has begun to change, for the the better. And along with working on our marriage and talking more freely and openly with each other and others, a new possibility has come up, one that I did not think was a possibility. That is, the possibility of transitioning to a full-time position with the Kingston Wesleyan Church instead of Youth For Christ. Since its inception, the idea has developed into a probably direction. Kassie, most importantly, is on board with it. Secondly, Pastor Len seems to welcome it. Thirdly, Todd Cramer seems to be surprisingly supportive of it.
At this point, I can't say that it will happen, but I can say I would appreciate your prayers and hope this update is helpful as you pray for us.
Also, thanks for reading.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Fall and Rise
Well, this summer has been a summer of ups and downs as Kassie and I have had quite a bit of stress in our relationship and things with my job have gone back and forth.
I definitely got to a breaking point multiple times, but I finally feel like God is lifting us out of this in a real way. Throughout the summer, and much of our marriage, the ups have consisted of basically forgetting about our problems and pretending they aren't there. This time we are actually working to change, together. God is providing.
So this Autumn, as the leaves are falling with the temperature, we will rise in our relationship lifted by God's strength and guidance.
Also rising will be the amount of activities I will be doing in ministry, such as 5th quarters, music ministry, walk-thrus, breakfast club, etc.
I am actually excited and feel somewhat prepared, infinitely more prepared than I was last year.
Praise God!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Oh, Life
First of all, I am glad I changed my blog background. It makes me happier than the old one.
Our big pine tree is down. Some people showed up and felled it this morning. Now I need to mow the lawn.
Kingston Days this weekend! I don't really know what to expect. We are having a garage sale. Hopefully we can get rid of some stuff and maybe even make a little money.
I am having a hard time with life right now. Please be praying for our family. Thanks.
Our big pine tree is down. Some people showed up and felled it this morning. Now I need to mow the lawn.
Kingston Days this weekend! I don't really know what to expect. We are having a garage sale. Hopefully we can get rid of some stuff and maybe even make a little money.
I am having a hard time with life right now. Please be praying for our family. Thanks.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Surprised By Oxford by Carolyn Weber
I enjoyed my time at college. I really didn't pay a whole lot of attention to school when I was at college. I was kind of in a rebellion stage from that, trying to get away from everything that high school was to me, or something like that. Instead, I spent much of my time making friends and becoming involved with His House Christian Fellowship. It was definitely a time of spiritual development for me, though I have been a Christian since I was very young.
Similarly, the author and subject of Surprised By Oxford, Carolyn Weber gained great spiritual insight during her first year at a place of higher learning. Whereas I have been a Christian most of my life, "Caro" as she is often referred to in the book began this journey of faith during her time at Oxford.
While this story is mainly about her journey of finding God and the decision to put her faith in Him, it includes many stories of her life that relate to that decision and her first year at Oxford. It often brought me back to my college experience, though Central Michigan University is much different from Oxford.
Her story was full of quotes from poetry or other literature, some of which I appreciated and some of which I didn't quite understand. Another thing I appreciated was the way her journey to faith was not blind, it wasn't based on her parents' or anybody else's faith, it was thought through. She was encouraged by many strong, intelligent Christians while at the same time facing opposition within the academic community and even her own home.
While the story was quite long, it was enjoyable and thoughtful and varied enough to keep one's interest.
I would recommend this book for those who don't think intellectuals can believe in God or for those who are intellectual and do believe in God or for those who appreciate literature. It's a good book.
I received this book free for review from BookSneeze®.
You can check it out at http://booksneeze.com/blogger/resources/9780849946110
Similarly, the author and subject of Surprised By Oxford, Carolyn Weber gained great spiritual insight during her first year at a place of higher learning. Whereas I have been a Christian most of my life, "Caro" as she is often referred to in the book began this journey of faith during her time at Oxford.
While this story is mainly about her journey of finding God and the decision to put her faith in Him, it includes many stories of her life that relate to that decision and her first year at Oxford. It often brought me back to my college experience, though Central Michigan University is much different from Oxford.
Her story was full of quotes from poetry or other literature, some of which I appreciated and some of which I didn't quite understand. Another thing I appreciated was the way her journey to faith was not blind, it wasn't based on her parents' or anybody else's faith, it was thought through. She was encouraged by many strong, intelligent Christians while at the same time facing opposition within the academic community and even her own home.
While the story was quite long, it was enjoyable and thoughtful and varied enough to keep one's interest.
I would recommend this book for those who don't think intellectuals can believe in God or for those who are intellectual and do believe in God or for those who appreciate literature. It's a good book.
I received this book free for review from BookSneeze®.
You can check it out at http://booksneeze.com/blogger/resources/9780849946110
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Fact or Fiction
I realized again why it is not good for me to read fiction books when I received The Canary List by Sigmund Brouwer free from the Waterbrook Multnomah blogging for books program and finished it within three days. I am not necessarily a fast reader and don't normally read that much at a time, but this book, like many novels, had me hooked.
The book centers around a school teacher who gets dragged into a battle of good versus evil. As he searches for answers, he gets pulled deeper and deeper into the web of a plot that has originated in the Vatican.
Although it was somewhat dark and the things that it pointed out were negative aspects of the world, it was a good reminder of the evil that exists all around us an the spiritual battle that is taking place, even within places like the Vatican. As the author pointed out in the book, lack of belief in the existence of demons is very helpful to their cause. If you don't believe they exist, you aren't doing anything to fight them.
One thing the book lacks is hope. My hope comes in knowing that while there is evil, there is also good. Moreover, Jesus has already overcome death and his Word promises that good will triumph over evil in the end. This was not really portrayed in any way in the book. Furthermore, the ending left matters somewhat unclear about the existence of evil. For me, it is obvious that evil exists, but for some who might have read this book, it does not necessarily make anything clear.
My attention was kept by the book, but I don't know that I would suggest it to anybody for the reasons given above.
I do want to again show my appreciation to Waterbrook Multnomah for providing me with free review copies of books, including this one.
The book centers around a school teacher who gets dragged into a battle of good versus evil. As he searches for answers, he gets pulled deeper and deeper into the web of a plot that has originated in the Vatican.
Although it was somewhat dark and the things that it pointed out were negative aspects of the world, it was a good reminder of the evil that exists all around us an the spiritual battle that is taking place, even within places like the Vatican. As the author pointed out in the book, lack of belief in the existence of demons is very helpful to their cause. If you don't believe they exist, you aren't doing anything to fight them.
One thing the book lacks is hope. My hope comes in knowing that while there is evil, there is also good. Moreover, Jesus has already overcome death and his Word promises that good will triumph over evil in the end. This was not really portrayed in any way in the book. Furthermore, the ending left matters somewhat unclear about the existence of evil. For me, it is obvious that evil exists, but for some who might have read this book, it does not necessarily make anything clear.
My attention was kept by the book, but I don't know that I would suggest it to anybody for the reasons given above.
I do want to again show my appreciation to Waterbrook Multnomah for providing me with free review copies of books, including this one.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Musical Missionary
I wrote not long ago about the idea that I am made for music.
God has used several people, events, and ideas this summer to develop a certain vision of the type of ministry God has created me for.
One part of this was a retreat with some leaders at the church I am part of. Our church is going through a process called ReVision to evaluate God's purposes for our church and our place in the community and the world.
The core leaders of the process will be involved in 4 retreats throughout the year. The first of which was near the beginning of the summer and was focused on us as individuals and what God has created us to be and do.
One of the things that stuck out is that we are God's workmanship, and part of the retreat was creating a sticky note timeline of our life's important events and people.
Through that and other things at the retreat, I realized some of my core values and some of the things God has created me and prepared me to do. Some of the things that are part of who I am are music, global ministry, and a desire to wake up the American Church to the realities of the world and empower us to change.
Not long ago, I also realized that Kassie could be a great drummer. Our wednesday night drummer was absent and Kassie sat in and surprised me, in a good way. She is now working on some basics, but what I really appreciate about her drumming is that it is musical, creative...it isn't just keeping the beat.
Anyway, with those things and others, we have decided to start a band. I have had many ideas about what the band will be and do. I am not sure what will all pan out, but I am trying to remember that God must be the front and center.
Please, be in prayer about this and let me know if you have any questions, suggestions, ideas, etc. Thanks
God has used several people, events, and ideas this summer to develop a certain vision of the type of ministry God has created me for.
One part of this was a retreat with some leaders at the church I am part of. Our church is going through a process called ReVision to evaluate God's purposes for our church and our place in the community and the world.
The core leaders of the process will be involved in 4 retreats throughout the year. The first of which was near the beginning of the summer and was focused on us as individuals and what God has created us to be and do.
One of the things that stuck out is that we are God's workmanship, and part of the retreat was creating a sticky note timeline of our life's important events and people.
Through that and other things at the retreat, I realized some of my core values and some of the things God has created me and prepared me to do. Some of the things that are part of who I am are music, global ministry, and a desire to wake up the American Church to the realities of the world and empower us to change.
Not long ago, I also realized that Kassie could be a great drummer. Our wednesday night drummer was absent and Kassie sat in and surprised me, in a good way. She is now working on some basics, but what I really appreciate about her drumming is that it is musical, creative...it isn't just keeping the beat.
Anyway, with those things and others, we have decided to start a band. I have had many ideas about what the band will be and do. I am not sure what will all pan out, but I am trying to remember that God must be the front and center.
Please, be in prayer about this and let me know if you have any questions, suggestions, ideas, etc. Thanks
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
A Challenge to Change
I think I had been at sort of a spiritual plateau for a while. And actually, it was probably more of a downward slope since it wasn't upward.
Anyway, God has been recently showing me that I really need to put him at the center of my life. An important verse for me has been the one in Matthew that says to seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and He will take care of the rest.
Speaking of verses, one thing I decided to do was to take Bible memorization more seriously, so I decided to start in Matthew chapter 5 and am currently on verse 25, which says, "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer and you may be thrown into prison." I am trying for a verse a day, although these past few days I have been slacking a little.
Anyway, right before that ties into the book I just read by Andy Stanley, called Enemies of the Heart. I picked this book mostly because I have heard good things about Andy Stanley.
I think God used this book to bring about some change in me, and to humble me to realize that there definitely are some changes that still need to be made. But along with that, God has encouraged me with the knowledge that I can change, I don't have to settle for who I think I am or who I have been, but I can trust that God's not finished with me. So that's been really cool.
This book has been helpful in that process. Actually, at one point, I realized that if I were going to keep reading the book, it was going to tell me some things I needed to change and I wasn't yet willing to do those things, so I stopped reading it temporarily.
I soon resumed after some time with God, and it was good.
I like the author's writing style along with the content of the book. I appreciate that it doesn't give steps that will automatically make you better but does lead you down a path that will clean out your heart, which will in turn change your life if you are willing to work at it.
I would recommend this book for anyone, specifically anybody who has ever had any problems at all.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah.
Anyway, God has been recently showing me that I really need to put him at the center of my life. An important verse for me has been the one in Matthew that says to seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and He will take care of the rest.
Speaking of verses, one thing I decided to do was to take Bible memorization more seriously, so I decided to start in Matthew chapter 5 and am currently on verse 25, which says, "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer and you may be thrown into prison." I am trying for a verse a day, although these past few days I have been slacking a little.
Anyway, right before that ties into the book I just read by Andy Stanley, called Enemies of the Heart. I picked this book mostly because I have heard good things about Andy Stanley.
I think God used this book to bring about some change in me, and to humble me to realize that there definitely are some changes that still need to be made. But along with that, God has encouraged me with the knowledge that I can change, I don't have to settle for who I think I am or who I have been, but I can trust that God's not finished with me. So that's been really cool.
This book has been helpful in that process. Actually, at one point, I realized that if I were going to keep reading the book, it was going to tell me some things I needed to change and I wasn't yet willing to do those things, so I stopped reading it temporarily.
I soon resumed after some time with God, and it was good.
I like the author's writing style along with the content of the book. I appreciate that it doesn't give steps that will automatically make you better but does lead you down a path that will clean out your heart, which will in turn change your life if you are willing to work at it.
I would recommend this book for anyone, specifically anybody who has ever had any problems at all.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Created for...Music?
What did God create me to do?
Not long ago, I was talking to a group of middle schoolers and let them know that we were all created by God for a specific purpose. I used the illustration of an automobile. Automobiles are created for transport, but different automobiles are created for different types of transport. Some cars are designed for short distances or to get good gas mileage. Certain trucks are made for hauling or carrying large loads. Some cars are made for speed.
In the same way, humans are created by God to have a relationship with him and to bring him glory. We were also created by Him to give him glory in certain ways.
I am trying to figure out the second part. Obviously, the best way to do that is to ask God, since he is the one who designed me. However, I guess I am a little impatient. Here's what I have so far:
Before moving to Ohio and multiple times since then, I have felt a push towards music. That's why we moved to Ohio. While I was a worship leader at a church there, I felt a push to pursue music further and joined a band. Then, various things happened and we left Ohio.
So, I was looking for jobs and a youth ministry position opened and I took it, thinking, "I'll give it a try. I am sure I can do it, whether it is what I am called to or not." I am pretty sure it is not what I am gifted for or called to, but I enjoy some parts of it.
I have recently felt the push towards music again, and have been thinking about what type of ministry I could do with music and how Kassie could/would want to be involved. We went to the Big Ticked Festival last week, and I feel like there was something I was supposed to learn or get from it or something that is holding on to me that I can't quite figure out.
Also, last week, Kassie and I were discussing the possibility of doing some sort of ministry and she told me that God told her that I am supposed to do some sort of music ministry. But that's as far as she knows.
I appreciate your prayers and any insight you can provide. Thanks.
I hav
Not long ago, I was talking to a group of middle schoolers and let them know that we were all created by God for a specific purpose. I used the illustration of an automobile. Automobiles are created for transport, but different automobiles are created for different types of transport. Some cars are designed for short distances or to get good gas mileage. Certain trucks are made for hauling or carrying large loads. Some cars are made for speed.
In the same way, humans are created by God to have a relationship with him and to bring him glory. We were also created by Him to give him glory in certain ways.
I am trying to figure out the second part. Obviously, the best way to do that is to ask God, since he is the one who designed me. However, I guess I am a little impatient. Here's what I have so far:
Before moving to Ohio and multiple times since then, I have felt a push towards music. That's why we moved to Ohio. While I was a worship leader at a church there, I felt a push to pursue music further and joined a band. Then, various things happened and we left Ohio.
So, I was looking for jobs and a youth ministry position opened and I took it, thinking, "I'll give it a try. I am sure I can do it, whether it is what I am called to or not." I am pretty sure it is not what I am gifted for or called to, but I enjoy some parts of it.
I have recently felt the push towards music again, and have been thinking about what type of ministry I could do with music and how Kassie could/would want to be involved. We went to the Big Ticked Festival last week, and I feel like there was something I was supposed to learn or get from it or something that is holding on to me that I can't quite figure out.
Also, last week, Kassie and I were discussing the possibility of doing some sort of ministry and she told me that God told her that I am supposed to do some sort of music ministry. But that's as far as she knows.
I appreciate your prayers and any insight you can provide. Thanks.
I hav
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Soccer!
I was finally able to play soccer after going for quite a while without playing at all. On Friday it was a great day and I decided to get some people together to play. It was a lot of fun.
A few things I got out of it:
1. I learned how out of shape I am. (I have playing church league softball but that does nothing for getting me in shape or indicating how out of shape I am)
2. I re-scraped my leg where I scraped it when sliding into second playing softball on Tuesday
3. I lost part of my shoe. My bright orange soccer cleats have served me well for about 7 years but now the bottom of the right one is no longer attached, so I will have to look for some new ones.
4. Fun.
We might start playing on a more regular basis, so if you are in the Kingston area and want to play, let me know.
A few things I got out of it:
1. I learned how out of shape I am. (I have playing church league softball but that does nothing for getting me in shape or indicating how out of shape I am)
2. I re-scraped my leg where I scraped it when sliding into second playing softball on Tuesday
3. I lost part of my shoe. My bright orange soccer cleats have served me well for about 7 years but now the bottom of the right one is no longer attached, so I will have to look for some new ones.
4. Fun.
We might start playing on a more regular basis, so if you are in the Kingston area and want to play, let me know.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Christian Hedonism
Desiring God is a book by John Piper that has now been made into a 12 part study.
The main concept of the book is the idea of Christian Hedonism. It is basically seeking pleasure in God and the things he calls you to do.
Basically, rather than trying to resist our desire for pleasure, Piper tells us to redirect it to the things that can truly fulfill.
I had a related thought within the past year about how we should be selfish. When we really think about it, to be selfish is to want what's best for ourselves and what's best for us is what God has for us. So to be selfish is to want what God wants, basically.
That was my idea. John Piper has a similar, but more thought-out idea.
I have not read the actual book, Desiring God, but from the DVD series and study guide, it seems like quite a good book.
Personally, I think I would rather read the book than watch the DVD and go through the study guide. I didn't really like the questions or format of the study guide, and the DVD consists of Piper talking in a lecture style, which isn't all that entertaining.
I realize it isn't meant to be entertaining, but there was just something about Piper's presentation of his ideas that made me think I would rather read about them than listen to him talking about them.
I think the ideas are great, insightful, and a little bit edgy. I can't comment on the presentation of the ideas in the actual book, but I wouldn't recommend the DVD series and study guide to my church or Bible Study unless I felt really compelled to share Piper's ideas and couldn't find any better way.
The DVD and study guide were provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah.
The main concept of the book is the idea of Christian Hedonism. It is basically seeking pleasure in God and the things he calls you to do.
Basically, rather than trying to resist our desire for pleasure, Piper tells us to redirect it to the things that can truly fulfill.
I had a related thought within the past year about how we should be selfish. When we really think about it, to be selfish is to want what's best for ourselves and what's best for us is what God has for us. So to be selfish is to want what God wants, basically.
That was my idea. John Piper has a similar, but more thought-out idea.
I have not read the actual book, Desiring God, but from the DVD series and study guide, it seems like quite a good book.
Personally, I think I would rather read the book than watch the DVD and go through the study guide. I didn't really like the questions or format of the study guide, and the DVD consists of Piper talking in a lecture style, which isn't all that entertaining.
I realize it isn't meant to be entertaining, but there was just something about Piper's presentation of his ideas that made me think I would rather read about them than listen to him talking about them.
I think the ideas are great, insightful, and a little bit edgy. I can't comment on the presentation of the ideas in the actual book, but I wouldn't recommend the DVD series and study guide to my church or Bible Study unless I felt really compelled to share Piper's ideas and couldn't find any better way.
The DVD and study guide were provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah.
Monday, May 16, 2011
McDonalds
I am sitting at McDonalds using the internet.
I had a pretty good walk thru at the Cass City Middle School where I talked to some students and advertised the Jam Band that I am starting today after school.
I am anxious to see if anybody shows up.
I think quite often about my job and what I like about it and what needs to change. Today I wrote some things down in my prayer journal and then talked to Kassie about them and it was a good chance to be reminded that Kassie and I are partners. I think too often in my mind we are in a responsibility battle or something. I am thinking "I have to do all of this stuff and you only do this" and she is thinking the same thing and it gets us nowhere but if we can work together and make an effort to see things from the other's perspective, it could make a huge difference.
It's amazing how our perspective has such a big impact on everything we do and perceive.
I guess that's all for now. I should probably get back to work.
I had a pretty good walk thru at the Cass City Middle School where I talked to some students and advertised the Jam Band that I am starting today after school.
I am anxious to see if anybody shows up.
I think quite often about my job and what I like about it and what needs to change. Today I wrote some things down in my prayer journal and then talked to Kassie about them and it was a good chance to be reminded that Kassie and I are partners. I think too often in my mind we are in a responsibility battle or something. I am thinking "I have to do all of this stuff and you only do this" and she is thinking the same thing and it gets us nowhere but if we can work together and make an effort to see things from the other's perspective, it could make a huge difference.
It's amazing how our perspective has such a big impact on everything we do and perceive.
I guess that's all for now. I should probably get back to work.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Happy birthdaY
It's my birthday and it's been pretty happy so far.
I got to sleep in, although I still didnt feel like getting up and doing what needed to be done.
I did the dishes and folded the laundry before Kassie got home from Clare and before I had to leave for a walk thru.
The walk thru was fun. During the high school lunch I played hacky sack with some cool guys.
During the jr high lunch I talked to some people and then passed a football with a couple guys I don't know very well.
Also, this was the first time I have been to the KHS since I shaved my beard so many people were surprised. Overall, the reaction has been positive. There are a few people who are disappointed, such as one girl who doesn't really talk to me except to say 'nice beard' every time she sees me.
It's been interesting some of the reactions I have gotten, like "I was wondering when you would get rid of that ugly thing!" and similar honest comments that let me know what people really thought of the beard, and "You look like you could be a senior at this school" or better "You look 20 years younger!" (which makes me wonder how old they thought I was looked with the beard...40?)
When I got home, I got to see my wife and baby for the first time in a couple days other than the quick passing as they were coming and I was leaving.
Also, my wife gave me my birthday present, which was a combined present from several family members...a mandolin! I am pretty excited. I have learned some chords on it so far and look forward to getting to know it better.
Thanks to everybody for happy birthday wishes, presents, money, and whatever other wonderful things you have sent or would like to send me!
I got to sleep in, although I still didnt feel like getting up and doing what needed to be done.
I did the dishes and folded the laundry before Kassie got home from Clare and before I had to leave for a walk thru.
The walk thru was fun. During the high school lunch I played hacky sack with some cool guys.
During the jr high lunch I talked to some people and then passed a football with a couple guys I don't know very well.
Also, this was the first time I have been to the KHS since I shaved my beard so many people were surprised. Overall, the reaction has been positive. There are a few people who are disappointed, such as one girl who doesn't really talk to me except to say 'nice beard' every time she sees me.
It's been interesting some of the reactions I have gotten, like "I was wondering when you would get rid of that ugly thing!" and similar honest comments that let me know what people really thought of the beard, and "You look like you could be a senior at this school" or better "You look 20 years younger!" (which makes me wonder how old they thought I was looked with the beard...40?)
When I got home, I got to see my wife and baby for the first time in a couple days other than the quick passing as they were coming and I was leaving.
Also, my wife gave me my birthday present, which was a combined present from several family members...a mandolin! I am pretty excited. I have learned some chords on it so far and look forward to getting to know it better.
Thanks to everybody for happy birthday wishes, presents, money, and whatever other wonderful things you have sent or would like to send me!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Sunny Days
Well, today is not really sunny, but the weather has been nicer lately and it has really enhanced my mood. I am enjoying being outside more.
I really enjoy the fresh air.
I enjoy playing sports in fresh air.
I am going to be playing softball tonight, which isn't my favorite sport but it will be fun anyway.
Do you like fresh air? Do you like softball?
I like soccer.
Have a great day!
I really enjoy the fresh air.
I enjoy playing sports in fresh air.
I am going to be playing softball tonight, which isn't my favorite sport but it will be fun anyway.
Do you like fresh air? Do you like softball?
I like soccer.
Have a great day!
Homosexuality and Christianity
I don't always enjoy non-fiction, but I tend to enjoy non-fiction that tells a story. Out of a Far Country not only tells a story, but it is a story that can be helpful and relevant to people in various ways.
This particular story is one of a man who deals with homosexuality and how God uses different situations to bring his mother to Christ and eventually bring him to Christ.
There were parts of the book that I thought might have dwelt on the sinful world the man was involved in, but that also could allow certain people to relate to his story more.
He got into drugs, got kicked out of college, became a major drug supplier, and eventually went to prison. The mother dealt with family issues, marital stress, past issues, in-law expectations, etc.
I think it is a great redemptive story that is compared to the prodigal son. I would recommend this book to many people and highly recommend it to certain people.
For people dealing with homosexuality, it could be a good resource as well as the other issues that I mentioned are in the book.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah Group.
This particular story is one of a man who deals with homosexuality and how God uses different situations to bring his mother to Christ and eventually bring him to Christ.
There were parts of the book that I thought might have dwelt on the sinful world the man was involved in, but that also could allow certain people to relate to his story more.
He got into drugs, got kicked out of college, became a major drug supplier, and eventually went to prison. The mother dealt with family issues, marital stress, past issues, in-law expectations, etc.
I think it is a great redemptive story that is compared to the prodigal son. I would recommend this book to many people and highly recommend it to certain people.
For people dealing with homosexuality, it could be a good resource as well as the other issues that I mentioned are in the book.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah Group.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Whoops...I wasn't supposed to read this.
I just finished reading the book For Women Only. You may have seen that I read the book For Men Only not too long ago. They are pretty similar in writing style and setup. Also many of the topics were similar but told from different perspectives.
In some ways, reading a book about how men think was boring because I am a man and I know how I think. However, it also made me think about how I think in some new ways and was in some ways affirming to know that men, not just I, think about certain things in the same ways.
As they make clear in the book, while they make many blanket statements, they do not mean that the statements are true of all men. I found myself to be an exception to some of the statements. However, I could relate to the main ideas.
For example, one of the topics addressed was that husbands like to see that their wives are making an effort to be healthy and to look good, even when just around their husbands.
I agree that I like to see my wife making an effort to be healthy. Currently, she is trying to eat healthier and include more exercise in her lifestyle, which I think is great. However, I don't really care if she puts effort into how she looks around me most of the time. In fact, while the book said men prefer that their wives do things such as put makeup on even if just the husband is around, I prefer that my wife doesn't wear makeup. I think she looks better without makeup. I would prefer she never wear makeup. However, like I said, I can relate to the main point of that section.
In conclusion, I think it is a valuable book and I would suggest it for women, and men if they want.
However, if men read it, they should be careful not to feel entitled to special treatment. We can't expect our wives or significant others to completely understand and apply everything in the book. It would be good to balance it out with reading For Men Only.
For the women who read it, there is a warning in the beginning that I think needs to be emphasized. The book could seem to oppress women or make them feel like they should be doing all the work in the relationship. Which is not true. The Bible says that women should submit to their husbands, but it is also clear that men should love their wives as Christ loves the church (which is a much bigger task). If both of those are happening together, it is a beautiful thing.
So, while this book is one-sided, it needs to be understood that the relationship shouldn't be one-sided, and I don't believe that is what the book or the author is promoting.
Checkout this book and/or order your own copy here http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781590523179
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
In some ways, reading a book about how men think was boring because I am a man and I know how I think. However, it also made me think about how I think in some new ways and was in some ways affirming to know that men, not just I, think about certain things in the same ways.
As they make clear in the book, while they make many blanket statements, they do not mean that the statements are true of all men. I found myself to be an exception to some of the statements. However, I could relate to the main ideas.
For example, one of the topics addressed was that husbands like to see that their wives are making an effort to be healthy and to look good, even when just around their husbands.
I agree that I like to see my wife making an effort to be healthy. Currently, she is trying to eat healthier and include more exercise in her lifestyle, which I think is great. However, I don't really care if she puts effort into how she looks around me most of the time. In fact, while the book said men prefer that their wives do things such as put makeup on even if just the husband is around, I prefer that my wife doesn't wear makeup. I think she looks better without makeup. I would prefer she never wear makeup. However, like I said, I can relate to the main point of that section.
In conclusion, I think it is a valuable book and I would suggest it for women, and men if they want.
However, if men read it, they should be careful not to feel entitled to special treatment. We can't expect our wives or significant others to completely understand and apply everything in the book. It would be good to balance it out with reading For Men Only.
For the women who read it, there is a warning in the beginning that I think needs to be emphasized. The book could seem to oppress women or make them feel like they should be doing all the work in the relationship. Which is not true. The Bible says that women should submit to their husbands, but it is also clear that men should love their wives as Christ loves the church (which is a much bigger task). If both of those are happening together, it is a beautiful thing.
So, while this book is one-sided, it needs to be understood that the relationship shouldn't be one-sided, and I don't believe that is what the book or the author is promoting.
Checkout this book and/or order your own copy here http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781590523179
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Encouragement
I just want to share something that happened to me recently. It started a while ago, a few weeks, a month, a few months, I am not sure exactly.
I think quite a bit about my job and what I like and what I don't like and what I need to spend more time doing and what I need to spend less time doing and how I can do certain things better and so on...
One of the things I thought might be cool to try is a jam band. I thought it would be cool to get people together who like to play music and/or want to learn to play music and just jam and learn from each other and stuff. I was thinking it would be a cool outreach/discipleship time in Cass City with middle/high school students.
I talked about the possibility to Kassie who thought it might be neat and mentioned it to a Cass City highschooler who I thought might be interested, but didn't really talk to many people about it.
Then one day I was at lunch at CCHS and a couple girls mentioned a Jazz concert that evening. Kassie and I decided to go to what was a Jazz Lounge/Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser Thingy (not the official name).
At the jazz thingy a couple came and introduced themselves as the parents of one of the students I talk to regularly who comes to breakfast club. They go to the church across the street from the school, so I told them that I had been thinking about doing a jam band and was thinking their church might be a prime location.
The woman told me the church has actually been praying for more ways to use the church building and/or to reach out to the community and that the church building was actually built across from the school for the purpose of ministry similar to what I want to do.
She also informed me that her husband is on the board at the church, and he told me he could pretty much guarantee the board would give me approval to do the jam band there and he would call me to let me know.
I wasn't sure of the idea at first, but it seems like the more people I tell, the more positive responses I get, and it seems like God is behind this idea too.
Please be praying that this will open doors for relationships with Cass City students and that we will get approval to jam at the church across from the school.
I think quite a bit about my job and what I like and what I don't like and what I need to spend more time doing and what I need to spend less time doing and how I can do certain things better and so on...
One of the things I thought might be cool to try is a jam band. I thought it would be cool to get people together who like to play music and/or want to learn to play music and just jam and learn from each other and stuff. I was thinking it would be a cool outreach/discipleship time in Cass City with middle/high school students.
I talked about the possibility to Kassie who thought it might be neat and mentioned it to a Cass City highschooler who I thought might be interested, but didn't really talk to many people about it.
Then one day I was at lunch at CCHS and a couple girls mentioned a Jazz concert that evening. Kassie and I decided to go to what was a Jazz Lounge/Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser Thingy (not the official name).
At the jazz thingy a couple came and introduced themselves as the parents of one of the students I talk to regularly who comes to breakfast club. They go to the church across the street from the school, so I told them that I had been thinking about doing a jam band and was thinking their church might be a prime location.
The woman told me the church has actually been praying for more ways to use the church building and/or to reach out to the community and that the church building was actually built across from the school for the purpose of ministry similar to what I want to do.
She also informed me that her husband is on the board at the church, and he told me he could pretty much guarantee the board would give me approval to do the jam band there and he would call me to let me know.
I wasn't sure of the idea at first, but it seems like the more people I tell, the more positive responses I get, and it seems like God is behind this idea too.
Please be praying that this will open doors for relationships with Cass City students and that we will get approval to jam at the church across from the school.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Trying to Understand Women
For Men Only by Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn gives explanations and tips for men to better understand and relate to women, specifically significant others.
Based on a seemingly large amount of research, the quotes and figures offer interesting insight into the thoughts and feelings of females.
Written from a man's perspective, this book offers the information in a way that is able to understood by men on common relationship topics from listening to sex.
There were a few things I didn't like about this book, but mainly in the formatting and writing style. For example, every page or every other page has a certain sentence that is given emphasis by repeating it in its own little paragraph in the middle of the page, much like in many magazine articles. To me, this is distracting and not helpful in any way.
However, overall, the book could be life-changing. I wish it could be life-changing without any work on my part. However, many of the tips require intention on my part. Of course, marriage isn't easy, and this book is actually written to make it easier. Rather than fighting an uphill battle, the insight and tips from this book offer things the reader can do that will take work but will ultimately make life easier.
It was a quick read, and hopefully I will remember to put some of these things into practice.
I would recommend this book for any married man and probably some who aren't married.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah
Based on a seemingly large amount of research, the quotes and figures offer interesting insight into the thoughts and feelings of females.
Written from a man's perspective, this book offers the information in a way that is able to understood by men on common relationship topics from listening to sex.
There were a few things I didn't like about this book, but mainly in the formatting and writing style. For example, every page or every other page has a certain sentence that is given emphasis by repeating it in its own little paragraph in the middle of the page, much like in many magazine articles. To me, this is distracting and not helpful in any way.
However, overall, the book could be life-changing. I wish it could be life-changing without any work on my part. However, many of the tips require intention on my part. Of course, marriage isn't easy, and this book is actually written to make it easier. Rather than fighting an uphill battle, the insight and tips from this book offer things the reader can do that will take work but will ultimately make life easier.
It was a quick read, and hopefully I will remember to put some of these things into practice.
I would recommend this book for any married man and probably some who aren't married.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Music
I enjoy music.
It seems God often reminds me of this gift he has given me.
I am not sure what to do with it.
So far, I help lead the worship team at church.
I am thinking about starting a jazz combo with some people from church.
I am also thinking about starting a jam band with people from Cass City.
I like playing guitar and singing. I also like playing bass. Recently, I have really wanted to play drums in a band or at least with other people.
Tonight the Sunday worship team had our first Wednesday night practice and I'd say it was pretty sweet.
Today was also my first shoeless day in several months.
It seems God often reminds me of this gift he has given me.
I am not sure what to do with it.
So far, I help lead the worship team at church.
I am thinking about starting a jazz combo with some people from church.
I am also thinking about starting a jam band with people from Cass City.
I like playing guitar and singing. I also like playing bass. Recently, I have really wanted to play drums in a band or at least with other people.
Tonight the Sunday worship team had our first Wednesday night practice and I'd say it was pretty sweet.
Today was also my first shoeless day in several months.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Identity
What is it like to have no identity? To feel like having the identity of ugliest boy in the world is better than no identity at all? To only know and be known by somebody who lies for a living?
Most of us, fortunately, do not fully know the answers to those questions. But in the book I recently read, The Charlatan's Boy by Jonathan Rogers, the main character, Grady, knows exactly how it feels.
This boy, not remembering his birth and early childhood, must rely on what Floyd tells him. Truth from Floyd, however, comes about as often as a jackpot from a stingy slot machine. Floyd makes a living as a showman, by "skinning" the kind citizens of each town he passes through.
He shows off Grady as a real live He-feechie when there is a feechie scare on the island. When the people stop believing in feechies, Floyd decides to make money by showing Grady as the ugliest boy in the world. After getting cocky and going to a larger city where there is an uglier boy than Grady and losing all of his money, Floyd angrily takes Grady back to a place frequented by showmen, where he can win the tools of another show trade from a "friend" in a poker game.
After several different types of hoaxes, Floyd decides to create a feechie scare of his own, to bring back the feechie trade. This works quite successfully, although, the feechie trade it calls for is different than the previous one. Floyd ends up abandoning Grady in an angry mob where his only help comes, at first, from a beautiful young lady, and then from another unlikely person.
Through all of this is woven a tale of identity, loyalty, trust and the lack thereof. Grady wrestles with a desire to be useful or talented in some way, to be loved, even to be known. He struggles with the question of leaving Floyd to trek on his own or stay with a bartender he has met a few times or to stay with the only person he has ever known, even though he is a selfish liar.
I enjoyed the book. I enjoyed being taken to another time and another place, to a life that is so different from my own, yet has questions and concerns we can all relate to in some way or another.
I enjoyed the book, but I don't know that I'd recommend it to many. I would possibly recommend it for those who are looking for a relaxing fiction novel. That is exactly what I was looking for when I requested the book, so I am happy.
The book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Mulnomah. Check out their site for some great books!
Most of us, fortunately, do not fully know the answers to those questions. But in the book I recently read, The Charlatan's Boy by Jonathan Rogers, the main character, Grady, knows exactly how it feels.
This boy, not remembering his birth and early childhood, must rely on what Floyd tells him. Truth from Floyd, however, comes about as often as a jackpot from a stingy slot machine. Floyd makes a living as a showman, by "skinning" the kind citizens of each town he passes through.
He shows off Grady as a real live He-feechie when there is a feechie scare on the island. When the people stop believing in feechies, Floyd decides to make money by showing Grady as the ugliest boy in the world. After getting cocky and going to a larger city where there is an uglier boy than Grady and losing all of his money, Floyd angrily takes Grady back to a place frequented by showmen, where he can win the tools of another show trade from a "friend" in a poker game.
After several different types of hoaxes, Floyd decides to create a feechie scare of his own, to bring back the feechie trade. This works quite successfully, although, the feechie trade it calls for is different than the previous one. Floyd ends up abandoning Grady in an angry mob where his only help comes, at first, from a beautiful young lady, and then from another unlikely person.
Through all of this is woven a tale of identity, loyalty, trust and the lack thereof. Grady wrestles with a desire to be useful or talented in some way, to be loved, even to be known. He struggles with the question of leaving Floyd to trek on his own or stay with a bartender he has met a few times or to stay with the only person he has ever known, even though he is a selfish liar.
I enjoyed the book. I enjoyed being taken to another time and another place, to a life that is so different from my own, yet has questions and concerns we can all relate to in some way or another.
I enjoyed the book, but I don't know that I'd recommend it to many. I would possibly recommend it for those who are looking for a relaxing fiction novel. That is exactly what I was looking for when I requested the book, so I am happy.
The book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Mulnomah. Check out their site for some great books!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Aurelia Jane
She's cute; she's cuddly; she's learning 3+ languages; she can jump, fly, and dance; who is she?
Aurelia Jane Hill!
I figured you would rather read about Aurelia than about another book I recently read, or even about me, personally. So here's what's happening:
First of all, she's been cute and cuddly since she was born. I sang her a song last night while burping her about her being the best baby in the world because she's the cutest. I tend to make up a lot of peculiar songs when spending time with Reli (I like this nickname, pronounced RAYL-ee, but am not sure about the spelling. I like nicknames whose spelling comes directly from the original name like Matt from Matthew as opposed to John from Jonathon or something, but Reli looks more like rely than raylee...also I am not sure if I like Reli more enough than Aurie to bother with the spelling.)
Okay, enough babbling.
I have been talking/singing to Aurie in Spanish as well as English and have been teaching her my complete knowledge of Arabic, which consists of approximately 5 words. Also, I talk (I don't really know this language so my talking is more gibberish than anything) to her in that clicky African language so that she will be able to learn it easier when she gets older if she needs to.
I like to make her jump (really I just lift her up high and bring her back down, with little to no effort being made from her). If nothing else, this offers a brief distraction from whatever she has been fussing about (constipation, lately). Her eyes open wide as she tries to take in the sights that are flying past her field of vision. She then sits there getting reoriented for a few seconds before getting back to her fussing, which sometimes she forgets about altogether, at least for several minutes.
Well, maybe there was enough babbling before, but I seem to be good at producing more.
Flying is very similar to the jumping except that I walk around the room and sometimes roll her over and stuff like that. I am not sure if she enjoys it or not.
You may have seen the very popular facebook video of Aurelia dancing. If not, check it out. Kassie posted it, and you should be able to find it more easily than I could provide a link for you.
Bonus: Gracie (the cat) seems to be afraid of Reli. Gracie doesn't always run away or stay away from Aurie but has been known to do so on occasion.
As far as the boring stuff like how much Aurelia's eating and pooping and her height and weight and everything like that, I guess you'll have to ask her mom for more details. I'll just sum it up by saying she's progressing sufficiently.
Aurelia Jane Hill!
I figured you would rather read about Aurelia than about another book I recently read, or even about me, personally. So here's what's happening:
First of all, she's been cute and cuddly since she was born. I sang her a song last night while burping her about her being the best baby in the world because she's the cutest. I tend to make up a lot of peculiar songs when spending time with Reli (I like this nickname, pronounced RAYL-ee, but am not sure about the spelling. I like nicknames whose spelling comes directly from the original name like Matt from Matthew as opposed to John from Jonathon or something, but Reli looks more like rely than raylee...also I am not sure if I like Reli more enough than Aurie to bother with the spelling.)
Okay, enough babbling.
I have been talking/singing to Aurie in Spanish as well as English and have been teaching her my complete knowledge of Arabic, which consists of approximately 5 words. Also, I talk (I don't really know this language so my talking is more gibberish than anything) to her in that clicky African language so that she will be able to learn it easier when she gets older if she needs to.
I like to make her jump (really I just lift her up high and bring her back down, with little to no effort being made from her). If nothing else, this offers a brief distraction from whatever she has been fussing about (constipation, lately). Her eyes open wide as she tries to take in the sights that are flying past her field of vision. She then sits there getting reoriented for a few seconds before getting back to her fussing, which sometimes she forgets about altogether, at least for several minutes.
Well, maybe there was enough babbling before, but I seem to be good at producing more.
Flying is very similar to the jumping except that I walk around the room and sometimes roll her over and stuff like that. I am not sure if she enjoys it or not.
You may have seen the very popular facebook video of Aurelia dancing. If not, check it out. Kassie posted it, and you should be able to find it more easily than I could provide a link for you.
Bonus: Gracie (the cat) seems to be afraid of Reli. Gracie doesn't always run away or stay away from Aurie but has been known to do so on occasion.
As far as the boring stuff like how much Aurelia's eating and pooping and her height and weight and everything like that, I guess you'll have to ask her mom for more details. I'll just sum it up by saying she's progressing sufficiently.
Finding Who God Created You To Be
Lately, I have been doing some thinking about my job and whether it is where I am supposed to be, what I was made to be doing. Honestly, I think the answer is yes and no. I think that this is where I am supposed to be now, but I don't think it's permanent.
With these thoughts and questions going through my head, I picked out the book Soul Print by Mark Batterson.
The subtitle to this book is "discovering your divine destiny." It is meant to make you look into your own life, your meaningful experiences, your abilities, etc. and figure out who God made you to be.
I will discuss the ideas of the book, but first there are a couple things I don't like about the way it's written. First of all, it seems to me that it could have been organized better and written more succinctly. Since it is a small book, anyway, I am led to hypothesize that maybe Mark wanted to write a whole book out of little information. This seems to have led to him saying the same thing repeatedly, over and over again, redundantly. At least, that's how it seems to me.
I would say there should be more focus on God, but I think the author made a good effort to keep the focus on God. Instead, the problem isn't a lack of focus on God, it is just too much fluffy writing (which goes back to the writing style problem).
Overall, I might have found some of his ideas useful and intriguing, but I don't think this is a book I would widely recommend.
Honestly, I didn't have high expectations for the book before reading it, and I was neither pleasantly surprised nor disappointed after reading it.
On a positive note (also a sort of disclaimer) this book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah.
With these thoughts and questions going through my head, I picked out the book Soul Print by Mark Batterson.
The subtitle to this book is "discovering your divine destiny." It is meant to make you look into your own life, your meaningful experiences, your abilities, etc. and figure out who God made you to be.
I will discuss the ideas of the book, but first there are a couple things I don't like about the way it's written. First of all, it seems to me that it could have been organized better and written more succinctly. Since it is a small book, anyway, I am led to hypothesize that maybe Mark wanted to write a whole book out of little information. This seems to have led to him saying the same thing repeatedly, over and over again, redundantly. At least, that's how it seems to me.
I would say there should be more focus on God, but I think the author made a good effort to keep the focus on God. Instead, the problem isn't a lack of focus on God, it is just too much fluffy writing (which goes back to the writing style problem).
Overall, I might have found some of his ideas useful and intriguing, but I don't think this is a book I would widely recommend.
Honestly, I didn't have high expectations for the book before reading it, and I was neither pleasantly surprised nor disappointed after reading it.
On a positive note (also a sort of disclaimer) this book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah.
Monday, February 14, 2011
New Perspectives
The Chasm by Randy Alcorn is a book of imagery and symbolism. It is obvious imagery, at least to a believer. I found it interesting and maybe a little enlightening. Overall, though, it did not really give me much insight or new understanding.
I think this book might be good for a new Christian or a non-Christian. I am not really sure of the effect it might have. For me, it did not have much effect. That may be due, at least in part, to the time during which I read it or something.
I am not very good at judging who a book might be good for or what a person's reaction might be, but I would say this book is worth reading for anybody. It is interesting enough and short enough that whether a person gains understanding or perspective from reading it, they should at least be entertained.
Okay, so what is the book about? The book is a fictional story of a guy who is in another land, which is really a parallel to the world we live in. There are many paths before him, all but one of which meander through nothing but meaningless pleasure and eventually lead death, eternal death.
He is led along parts of those paths by a person named Joshua who tells him to choose whatever he wants, whatever makes him feel good. Through these journeys he sees himself in places of neglecting his family and taking part in the meaningless pleasures.
Eventually he sees Joshua for the evil he is and allows himself to be led by an old man who takes him down the red road, the only road that leads to the chasm before death.
The imagery and parallels continue with the man eventually believing in Jesus and joining other Christians on the path to eternal life.
As I said, I would recommend this book to anybody. I hope you enjoy it.
I received my review copy for free from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of the blogging for books program.
I think this book might be good for a new Christian or a non-Christian. I am not really sure of the effect it might have. For me, it did not have much effect. That may be due, at least in part, to the time during which I read it or something.
I am not very good at judging who a book might be good for or what a person's reaction might be, but I would say this book is worth reading for anybody. It is interesting enough and short enough that whether a person gains understanding or perspective from reading it, they should at least be entertained.
Okay, so what is the book about? The book is a fictional story of a guy who is in another land, which is really a parallel to the world we live in. There are many paths before him, all but one of which meander through nothing but meaningless pleasure and eventually lead death, eternal death.
He is led along parts of those paths by a person named Joshua who tells him to choose whatever he wants, whatever makes him feel good. Through these journeys he sees himself in places of neglecting his family and taking part in the meaningless pleasures.
Eventually he sees Joshua for the evil he is and allows himself to be led by an old man who takes him down the red road, the only road that leads to the chasm before death.
The imagery and parallels continue with the man eventually believing in Jesus and joining other Christians on the path to eternal life.
As I said, I would recommend this book to anybody. I hope you enjoy it.
I received my review copy for free from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of the blogging for books program.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
WOAH!!
I'm a dad!!!
I'm excited for this new journey in our life. Aurelia Jane Hill is so far a very good baby. She has a fairly regular eating schedule and doesn't cry or fuss too much except when she is hungry or uncomfortable. Our sleep schedules are definitely different than what we're used to, but we have at least been able to get a couple hours of sleep here and there.
Kassie is doing great. She is such a wonderful wife and mother. We take turns feeding Aurelia (me using the bottles she fills up), and she has been good to me by being conscious of my work schedule and when I have to be up early.
Even though we were only in the hospital two days, I felt like I had missed a lot at work, but I am starting to get back in the swing of things, while also taking time to be with my girls and also time to rest and get some sleep.
Speaking of girls, we added not just one but two members to our family last week. Along with Aurelia, we got a cat, Gracie, from her owners. They were looking for somebody to take her because they have another cat who doesn't get along with Gracie and have had to have Gracie in their basement for a while. She's a great cat and we are glad to have her so far. She came with everything we need to care for her. SHe hasn't caused any problems and seems pretty low maintenance. She also provides some entertainment, such as when Kassie wakes up to find her laying in the bathroom sink.
Let us know if you want to come visit to see our beautiful baby and/or Kassie, Gracie, and I.
I sometimes feel a little overwhelmed by the female imbalance in our house, so if you are a female who wants to come visit, you have to bring at least one male with you. Just kidding...but seriously, think about it.
I'm excited for this new journey in our life. Aurelia Jane Hill is so far a very good baby. She has a fairly regular eating schedule and doesn't cry or fuss too much except when she is hungry or uncomfortable. Our sleep schedules are definitely different than what we're used to, but we have at least been able to get a couple hours of sleep here and there.
Kassie is doing great. She is such a wonderful wife and mother. We take turns feeding Aurelia (me using the bottles she fills up), and she has been good to me by being conscious of my work schedule and when I have to be up early.
Even though we were only in the hospital two days, I felt like I had missed a lot at work, but I am starting to get back in the swing of things, while also taking time to be with my girls and also time to rest and get some sleep.
Speaking of girls, we added not just one but two members to our family last week. Along with Aurelia, we got a cat, Gracie, from her owners. They were looking for somebody to take her because they have another cat who doesn't get along with Gracie and have had to have Gracie in their basement for a while. She's a great cat and we are glad to have her so far. She came with everything we need to care for her. SHe hasn't caused any problems and seems pretty low maintenance. She also provides some entertainment, such as when Kassie wakes up to find her laying in the bathroom sink.
Let us know if you want to come visit to see our beautiful baby and/or Kassie, Gracie, and I.
I sometimes feel a little overwhelmed by the female imbalance in our house, so if you are a female who wants to come visit, you have to bring at least one male with you. Just kidding...but seriously, think about it.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Radical
Many of you have probably already heard of or even read the book Radical by David Platt.
If you haven't, you should.
It is a challenge for believers to do and be what God has called us to be. It is a reminder that the Bible calls us to leave behind the comfort and security the world says we need to live a life of obedience to God.
David Platt is a pastor of a mega church in Birmingham, AL. But don't let that scare you away. He shares stories of his own experiences in other countries as well as stories of people from his church and stories of others who accepted God's call for their life.
This book has been a good reminder for me of what being a Christian is really about and what it looks like. One thing I also especially like about the book is that it encourages living this life of faith as part of a group of believers. Although I have always been part of a church, I often feel like the convictions and calling I have are individual. While, it's true that we are each called to different ministries and such, it is also important to remember that we must work together to be completely effective,
Another thing I like about this book is that it gives certain things at the end of the book that help practically apply the concepts from the book to your own life.
Again, I would encourage everybody to read this book. Also, I would appreciate accountability in following through with some of the concepts and applying them to my own life. Thanks.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah. Look up Waterbrook Multnomah to buy the book or go to Amazon or something like that. Also, I have a copy that can be borrowed after Kassie reads it.
If you haven't, you should.
It is a challenge for believers to do and be what God has called us to be. It is a reminder that the Bible calls us to leave behind the comfort and security the world says we need to live a life of obedience to God.
David Platt is a pastor of a mega church in Birmingham, AL. But don't let that scare you away. He shares stories of his own experiences in other countries as well as stories of people from his church and stories of others who accepted God's call for their life.
This book has been a good reminder for me of what being a Christian is really about and what it looks like. One thing I also especially like about the book is that it encourages living this life of faith as part of a group of believers. Although I have always been part of a church, I often feel like the convictions and calling I have are individual. While, it's true that we are each called to different ministries and such, it is also important to remember that we must work together to be completely effective,
Another thing I like about this book is that it gives certain things at the end of the book that help practically apply the concepts from the book to your own life.
Again, I would encourage everybody to read this book. Also, I would appreciate accountability in following through with some of the concepts and applying them to my own life. Thanks.
This book was provided free for review by Waterbrook Multnomah. Look up Waterbrook Multnomah to buy the book or go to Amazon or something like that. Also, I have a copy that can be borrowed after Kassie reads it.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
You Call Us Your Children
First of all, the title is from a song I was listening to when I wrote it. But isn't that a sweet concept? that God calls us His children. Wow.
I have such a small concept of God, such a small understanding of everything.
Speaking of that, I think I might have wrote in my blog or somewhere else that when I thank God for everything and I actually think about it, I feel like my thank you is really insufficient.
Which makes me realize, as least as much as I can, that everything I do is insufficient. Everything I do is puny. Yet, God appreciates my piddly little efforts. God uses my next-to-nothingness and uses it for something.
How often, though, do I try to take things into my own hands? How often do I get caught up in myself rather than getting caught up in God? Well, honestly, the answer is almost always.
Also, speaking of honesty, I really didn't have any direction for this post. It could have ended up like the one that said I don't blog very consistently. But instead, God has used it to direct me to Him, and I hope you get the same thing.
I have such a small concept of God, such a small understanding of everything.
Speaking of that, I think I might have wrote in my blog or somewhere else that when I thank God for everything and I actually think about it, I feel like my thank you is really insufficient.
Which makes me realize, as least as much as I can, that everything I do is insufficient. Everything I do is puny. Yet, God appreciates my piddly little efforts. God uses my next-to-nothingness and uses it for something.
How often, though, do I try to take things into my own hands? How often do I get caught up in myself rather than getting caught up in God? Well, honestly, the answer is almost always.
Also, speaking of honesty, I really didn't have any direction for this post. It could have ended up like the one that said I don't blog very consistently. But instead, God has used it to direct me to Him, and I hope you get the same thing.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Stimulation
New Year, new day, new moment, new sletter...actually, newsletter. I need to write one for my YFC supporters and am lacking motivation and inspiration, so I am using this blogspace to stimulate my brain and get my writing gears in motion.
I had a pretty awesome time with family and friends and now I am trying to get back to home and normal life, as it were. I am hoping to make some changes in this new year, although I haven't particularly specified what they are to myself or others. I think I have an understanding of what I want to change.
One thing it comes down to is, like Kirstin is trying to acquire, self-control/self-discipline, that type of thing.
I am having a hard time writing right now. I can't think of any of the words I want to use.
Anyway, I also would like to be more _____ about spending time with God. I have been reading the Bible, and the book Radical, lately, but I haven't really set aside time to pray much or really spend time with God.
Although I am not sure this helped my writing gears, I am going to try to write that newsletter now.
I had a pretty awesome time with family and friends and now I am trying to get back to home and normal life, as it were. I am hoping to make some changes in this new year, although I haven't particularly specified what they are to myself or others. I think I have an understanding of what I want to change.
One thing it comes down to is, like Kirstin is trying to acquire, self-control/self-discipline, that type of thing.
I am having a hard time writing right now. I can't think of any of the words I want to use.
Anyway, I also would like to be more _____ about spending time with God. I have been reading the Bible, and the book Radical, lately, but I haven't really set aside time to pray much or really spend time with God.
Although I am not sure this helped my writing gears, I am going to try to write that newsletter now.
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