A couple of weeks ago, my parents (pictured below) came through our area on the start of their vacation.

Our family was able to eat lunch and spend some time together as they made their way to the St. Louis area. As they talked about the days they had planned and the people they looked forward to seeing, the memory of friends rushed through my brain and heart. I had a friend once tell me, “If you go through life with one person you can truly call a friend, you could be the most fortunate person on the planet.” Not only have my parents been blessed with wonderful friends over the years, but so have Tiffany and I. People who have loved us in spite of ourselves. Looked past our faults. Forgiven accidental (and at times intentional) wrongs done. Have walked to the mountaintops, and traveled to the valleys with us. Have celebrated our lives, marriage, kids, and the various stages we have experienced separately and together.
The appreciation I had for my parents growing up in the area of relationship building was great-but it has grown to even new heights as the years have passed. They truly modeled what it meant to not only initiate friendship, but to accept it as well. I will be forever grateful of the way they modeled loving God, and loving people. In a couple of weeks, the Bible study will take us to Matthew 22:34-40, which includes some of my favorite verses of all time. Jesus instructed to love God first and love people second-and to have no reservation in doing so. If those of us who call ourselves Christians really lived out those verses-if we loved God with our all, and people more than ourselves-our lives, relationships, and world would look like nothing we (or any other generation for that matter) has ever seen. It would be amazing!
Having the opportunity to spend part of the day with my parents a couple of days before the national celebration of Fathers was meaningful. Having the opportunity to spend Father’s Day with Tiff, Tirin, and Ethan was absolutely amazing. Tirin drew a picture (below) that expressed her heart, and I believe expresses the heart of our family towards God, each other, and for those we have a relationship with. We need to continue striving in the area of loving with our all-God first, and people second. My friend was right-a person who goes through life with one good friend has accomplished much. A person who goes through life with more than one could be most fortunate person on the planet. If you know Christ personally, he is your friend forever-and you have gained the best friend possible, and are the most fortunate person on the planet. If you have one friend beyond Him-who loves you for a lifetime in spite of yourself-you have been given a gift directly from God that is worth celebrating and cherishing. You have good people around you-you can probaly name who they are as easily as Tirin could in her Ray family portrait below.

There are certain moments I would like to capture in time. October 18, 2008, is one of those moments-the night our little girl asked Jesus into her heart. Tiffany and I remember that evening well. Tirin had been asking questions for several months, and knew that it was the right time. When Tiff and I started talking about having kids, our deepest desire was for them to know our Savior personally, and to walk with Him all of their days in relationship. We also desired (and still do) for our kids to see our love for Jesus and for them all of their days. After a long conversation that night (after several others), Tirin readily entered into a relationship with Jesus. There has been much evidence of her knowing Christ and growing in Him as she has followed Jesus the past year and one-half.
We intentionally waited until she was ready to be baptized-to communicate with her church family about the decision she had made. On the way to church Easter Sunday, Tirin said “Mom, today is the day I want to go forward to be baptized.” Tiffany called immediately and shared that with me-I could not have been more excited! So, on Easter of 2010, we went forward as a family, and Tirin shared with our church family of her decision. Another capture moment. At our staff meeting the next morning, Derrick asked “Will 45-minutes be enough to get you through the baptism? I will plan on preaching for…3 minutes that day. Great-we are all set!” He knew of the profound impact that day would carry for our family-and (though he was joking about 45-minutes) knew it would be a challenge to get through without my crying about sixteen rivers. The date was then set (Sunday, May 30), and my parents made plans to be present (traveling in from Wichita).
The morning of the 30th came, and during the 9:30am service, I had the privilege of baptizing Tirin. Yet another moment-one that will be forever melted into the core of my life. It was the first time I had put together that I was not only her daddy, but her pastor, and her brother in Christ as well. The moment of celebration was like one I have never experienced, and I am so grateful for that opportunity. The photos and video from the day helped to permanently capture, and we have enjoyed viewing them multiple times since.
Our kids are so precious to us-two amazing gifts. Tiffany and I are so thankful to the Lord for Tirin’s decision, and look forward to the day when Ethan will receive Jesus as well. It was a joy to celebrate a precious moment with a group of people who love and care for our family, and I look forward to seeing all that God has in store in the days ahead.

On Sunday night, our Nearly/Newly Married class got together for a barbecue/hang-out. It was great to take a break from what has been a very hectic several months to relax, break bread, and share our hearts. The last year has brought much change in our class: 4 new couples involved, 3 weddings (two down, one to go this weekend), 2 babies (one is here and one is on the way in less than a month), and 1 salvation (Yahoo Janet!). We have walked through surgeries, family members passing away, job changes, and many of the ins-and-outs of life. And we have done all of that in the context of…doing life together.

Sustaining relationships is challenging, and in many respects it would be easier to invest the minimal time and energy required to foster acquaintances. Instead, those pictured below are following the route of building lifelong friendships. They have decided that easier is not equal to, in any sense of the word, better. In choosing “easier”, the opportunities to share the joys, sorrows, and the everything in betweens of life that we are intended to with others who are striving to love Jesus and people with their all would be missed.

I Thessalonians 2:8 says: “So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” (ESV)

I cannot imagine what this life would be like without the people who have become and are becoming dear to us-true gifts from God as we share our lives. Whose hearts will be sown in with ours over the course of the next year? Is the number of those whom you hold dear growing or shrinking? How are you offering to others the verse above? Community is waiting for you-take the opportunity to share in the gospel of God and your very selves. Living in isolation is for…the birds (though they, too, fly in flocks-so in many respects that age-old phrase doesn’t make any sense!).

JWes, Harriet, Rhonda, Lindsey McEver and I had the opportunity to attend the Orange Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, last week. We individually attended break-outs addressing the ministry areas of preschool, children, students, and adults. The training was excellent, and I am still processing much of the content. In January (four months ago), Diane Runge (an Orange staff member) traveled to BVBC to provide training for our children’s ministry leadership. We each appreciated her personalized directed care for our team in the midst of the four thousand individuals who attended.

Chris White, a friend from my college days at Southwest Baptist University, also attended the conference. It was great to spend quality time catching up with him, and attending portions of the conference together. (pictured below)

Several speakers addressed the audience in general sessions. My personal favorites included hearing messages from two of my ministry heroes: Doug Fields and John Ortberg. They are both able to phrase things in such a way that go directly to my heart and challenge the core of who I am in Christ and in the lives of the people around me.

The one-liners that stick out the most are as follows:

“The only place I am not replaceable is with my family. There is only one dad who can shepherd the heart of his kids and his wife.” (Doug Fields-pictured below with JWes and I)

“One of the best gifts I can give someone is to not have an agenda for them.” (Ortberg)
“The spiritual image of a leader is not one of a CEO. It is a being a good father, a good mother, a good spouse. A good leader focuses on their own family.” (Doug Fields)

“Rivers of living water are available to me right now. Everything else works out-not necessarily like I want it to, but I want to be the man God wants me to be in this moment and in the next.” (Ortberg)

“When you are home, serve ice cream (the idea is making the environment more fun). Spend more time planning fun for your family than in any other place. Hold your kids more than your cell phone. Be busier with fun in your home than answering email or spending time on the computer. Date your wife. Focus on your family.” (Doug Fields)

“Disciples of Jesus are hand-crafted, not mass-produced.” (John Ortberg)

Bonus Pic: I will not steal JWes’ thunder if he blogs about it, but do you remember the group Run DMC? Run of the pair came into a relationship with Christ a few years ago, and is currently serving as a pastor. He was interviewed in a general session, and afterwards was available to sign his book and take pictures with folks. When JWes and I approached him, I asked: “Are we going to smile or be serious in the picture?” He replied: “Serious, it is always serious.” After laughing, he put on the serious pose, and JWes and I followed suit.

We are each so grateful to be able to attend events that provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, and we look forward to putting into practice what we have learned in the days ahead.

The past week has absolutely flown by! Nine days ago, eight of us began our trek toward Branson for staff retreat. After 2 days of meeting and planning for the year to come, we traveled back to KC (with a stop at “The Home of the Throwed Rolls” on the way home). I was quickly greeted by Tiff, Tirin, and Ethan, and it was off to soccer practice.

Wednesday morning, Dave McKibben (a good friend from Joplin, MO) was in town and came by to visit for a while. It was then off to mowing, picking up the kids from school, and packing for Virginia Beach.

On Thursday morning, Lindsay McEver (a friend of ours) came to the house in the early am, and Tiff and I hugged/kissed the kids and headed to the airport. Jen Zittle met us at the airport in the late afternoon, and we were in the van driving to the leader’s dinner for their first Disciple Now at Texas Roadhouse. There, we were reunited with Tim (he and Jen are friends back from seminary days in Texas -1999), Sammy Nuckolls and Opie (Steve) Thomas (friends from Centrifuge about 6 years back), and Jeff and Tammy Brocaille (our former Worship Pastor at Westside Church in Omaha). We had great visits with all, and enjoyed making some new friends that night. After Jeff and Tammy drove and dropped us at the hotel for Thursday night, Fred and Tammy (Tiff’s sister/brother-in-law) met us and spent a couple of hours. It was a blast to catch up with them before we were fully engaged in the weekend.

Friday morning, Tiffany and I walked on the beach and saw dolphins in the ocean about 50 feet from us-it was amazing! We were then picked-up and taken to a leader’s lunch and full-day of prep for DNow. Friday night we met the students in our homes, got to see Jeff/Tammy and all of their kids (they all look way different-2 ½ years brings a lot of change!) and were able to see a lot of the folks we have met on past trips. It was a privilege to spend time with the four guys in my home, and the same was true for Tiff with the six girls in hers.

After a great finish to the weekend in worship on Sunday morning, Fred/Tammy/Josh/Jordan took us to lunch at Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant. Fred and Tammy then took us to the airport, where Tim and Jen came for our final sendoff. Sunday night we got home about 10:30, and finally crawled in bed around 11:15 or so. The next morning, we had a great time seeing our kids, and here we are-off and running for another week.

Other highlights from our trip:
1)Being able to spend time with the good friends mentioned above, to once again see what God is doing in and through Tim and Jen at Kempsville, and to have the opportunity to be led in worship by Opie and Sammy/get some hang time with them. They provided solid reminders of God’s working in the past and present, and once again brought about an added appreciation for them as friends.

2)Caleb Brocaille (now a senior-former student in Omaha) came to the house with my guys on Friday night, and spent about 2 ½ hours with us in Q&A and sharing his testimony, heart, and giving words of encouragement to the guys. It was a very meaningful time. The entire weekend with the guys in my group was special, and reconnecting with adults who continue to pour out their lives to students.

3)One of the built-in challenges for Saturday’s competition was to go to the mall, ask folks there if they had a Bible, and when we found one who didn’t, to offer them the Bible/study guide that accompanied it, and ask if we can pray for them. Ben (one of the guys in my group) found a lady in her mid-thirties who had asked Jesus into her heart about 4 weeks ago. We were able to spend a couple of minutes with her, pray for her, and pray for with her mom (already a believer as well) for her husband who is struggling with some issues. For me, that was one of the key highlights of the day. The boldness displayed by the guys in my group and their love and compassion for those around them was extremely challenging.

The focus of the weekend was the importance of God’s Word in our lives, and all of the Bible studies revolved around having a deeper personal devotion to our King. Tiffany and I are grateful for the time of ministering together, and I look forward to seeing all that God has in store for those at Kempsville Baptist in the days and years ahead!

The title for this blog is the summary of most newspapers around the nation. College basketball fans know about KU's loss to Northern Iowa last Saturday. While "dreams of sugar plums" were not dancing in my head, dreams of breakdancing (in 1984 terms) into the Sweet 16, elite 8, and final 4 in the "Big Dance" were. In fact, it would not be an understatement to say that I expected them to win the championship this year based on their season. 

While the loss was surprising on the one hand, it was not on the other. An expectation for this team to run through the ranks and win it all has been present throughout the season (and all of the pressure accompanying it). When they have trailed late in games, they have typically been able to dial up the intensity and pull out games (as the 33-3 season record would indicate). However, in the round of 32, they fell short against the Panthers-and the insane 3 pointers that continued to rain down from every spot on the court during the game. While the loss has been difficult for KU fans in general, it cannot be compared with the effects on the coaches and players who experienced the end to this year's run in Oklahoma City firsthand.

Expectations. A season culminating in a championship. The pressure to perform, compete, and thrive. The Jayhawk players have experienced all of the above this season, and we can all relate in one way or another.

How did you enter this week? Did you crawl out of bed on Monday morning with the expectation of anticipated successes, forming new relationships, and drawing closer in your walk with God? Or did the approach lean more towards looming thoughts of  failure, broken relationships, and yet another normal week in relationship with your Savior? Is it possible that many times we not only anticipate a lack of God's power in our lives each day, but in many respects we have come to expect it? And if that is the case, is that what God anticipates...expects...and hopes for us?

Paul wrote in Colossians 1:27 (ESV): "To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." If we have a personal relationship with Jesus, He (the hope of glory) lives in us! And that fact alone should bring about an anticipation...an expectation...a hope that has the ability to catapult our lives into a daily approach of "God, what do you have in store for this day? How can I be drawn closer to you? How can I truly be an extension of your love to those around me who know you personally, and to those who don't? How can I truly be your hands and feet today?" If life is approached from that perspective, knowing the hope of glory lives in us, our daily expectations for God to work and move in and through us may be...could be...would be...radically different.

Even on the heels of a Jayhawk loss, we (I) would remember there is a much bigger picture for this world, for this day, for this moment, and in my very approach to it. A basketball season ending loss is one thing. 40 years of loss from this point on without ever winning another game (I realize I am exaggerating) and the years that follow is another. Living without the expectation of God working and through us for a day or short season is one thing. A life characterized by the absence of expectation or anticipation of God moving and working, regardless of the visible results, is another.

Will we consider entering tomorrow with the expectation and anticipation of Jesus in us, the hope of glory, working in and through us, for His glory?

Today is the first of four exciting, fun-filled days of watching basketball. This is absolutely one of my favorite times of the year, watching not only the Jayhawks, but all of the other teams in the Big 12 (and beyond-the ACC, etc.) battle it out for Number One. With the tourney taking place in KC this again year, I am anticipating an even greater time of watching-especially with KU as the number one overall-seed at this point, and favored to win at least this tourney (and possibly the NCAA). It all begins today at 11:30. For those of you who enjoy college basketball, happy watching-and from our house to yours, a big shout of ROCK CHALK! Here we go!

Ok, that is not how the phrase goes, but with the "coldness" of this winter, it seems to fit. From the top of the head to the bottom of the toes, everything is cold. Is there ever a time that could be considered "good cold"? For all involved in the Winter Olympics, the answer would be an emphatic "YES!" A cold iced drink on a hot day is normally considered "good cold".  But when the temperature is 6 degrees for the start of the day, and there is not enough snow to even sled (one of our family favorites-the picture below is from such a day in December of 1990), well, that is what I would consider a "bad cold".

While some cold weather could be considered "good", can a "cold heart" be placed in the same category? I'm not asking about cool hands under pressure (like Cool Hand Luke), or a cool head in most situations (like Bill Self at KU), but a coldness of heart towards the Lord-is that God's desire for our lives?

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come." 2 Corinthians 5:17 When salvation takes place and our relationship with Jesus grows, evidence of a "warming heart" that is formed and developed by the Holy Spirit in us towards God should be evident.

Be encouraged this week! In the midst of the cold weather, keep your warm heart blazing by spending time with the One who who makes once-frigid areas of our lives warm by His transforming might.

"Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 3:12-14, ESV

"Every human being you know is making a request of their friends, though it usually goes unspoken. Here's what they ask: 'Motivate me. Call out the best in me. Believe in me. Encourage me when I'm tempted to quit. Speak truth to me and remind me of my deepest values. Help me achieve my greatest potential. Tell me again what God called me to be, what I might yet become. Inspire me.'"  John Ortberg, ppg. 120-121, Everybody's Normal Til You Get To Know Them.

"I have five goals for saving my boys. It is my job as their father to model for them the importance of:

1)knowing and obeying Jesus Christ,

2)knowing and displaying godly character,

3)knowing and loving my wife,

4)knowing and loving my children, and

5)knowing my gifts and abilities, so I can work hard and effectively in an area of strength, rather than weakness, contribute effective to the lives of others-and have a little fun at the same time."

Steve Farrar, pg. 42, Point Man.

"do not forget the culture of the inner man-I mean of the heart. How diligently the cavalry officer keeps his sabre clean and sharp; every stain he rubs off with the greatest care. Remember you are God's sword, His instrument-I trust, a chosen vessel unto Him to bear His name. In great measure, according to the purity and perfection of the intsrument, will be the success. It is not great talents God blesses so much as likeness to Jesus." Robert Murray McCheyne

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." ESV

Luke 22:54 "Peter followed at a distance."

"Peter was sharp. He kept his distance from Jesus. 'I'll stay close enough to see him,' Peter reasoned. 'But not too close, or I may get caught.'

Good thinking, Peter. Don't get too involved-it might hurt. Don't be too loyal-you might get branded. Don't show too much concern-they'll crucify you, too.

We need more men like you, Peter. Men who keep religion in its place. Men who don't stir the water. Men who reek with mediocrity.

That's the kind of man God needs, yessir. One who knows how to keep his distance: 'Now, I'll pay my dues and I'll come once a week, but..well...you can get carried away, you know.'

Yes, you can get carried away...up a hill to a cross-and killed.

Peter learned a lesson that day-a hard lesson. It is better to have never followed Jesus than to have followed him and denied him.

Mark these words: Follow at a distance and you'll deny the Master. Period. You won't die for a man you can't touch. Period. But stay near to him, in his shadow....You'll die with him, gladly."

Max Lucado, Chapter 3, pp. 9-10, On The Anvil.

"Acceptance is an act of the heart. To accept someone is to affirm to them that you think it's a very good thing they are alive. We communicate this in a hundred ways, but the most powerful way is to listen with patience and compassion as they reveal their dark secrets." John Ortberg, pg. 101, Everybody's Normal Til You Get To Know Them.

"When you deal with human beings, you have come to the 'as-is' corner of the universe. Think for a moment about someone in your life. Maybe the person you know best, love most. That person is slightly irregular. That person comes with a little tag: There's a flaw here. A streak of deception, a cruel tongue, a passive spirit, an out-of-control temper. I'm not going to tell you where it is, but it's there. So when you find it-and you will find it-don't be surprised. If you want to enter a relationship with this model, there is only one way. 'As is.' If you were looking for perfection, you've walked down the wrong aisle." 

John Ortberg, Everybody's Normal Til You Get To Know Them, pg. 14

"To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart liberally to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket-safe, dark, motionless, airless-it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable."  C.S. Lewis

"The seed that is sown is scattered with an open hand. The sower in order to have a harvest has to turn loose the seed. He can't grip it in his fist; he can't hesitate to let it go; he can't just sprinkle a little bit here and there; he's got to let it go liberally, if he expects to have a great harvest."

Charles Spurgeon

"The Christian faith is meant to be lived moment by moment. It isn't some broad, general outline--it's a long walk with a real person. Details cout: passing thoughts, small sacrifice, a few encouraging words, little acts of kindness, brief victories over nagging sins." Joni Earekson Tada

The next few weeks will include a series of thought-provoking quotes and corresponding verses I have run across recently. I will not typically add any personal commentary, as they will easily stand for themselves. Hope you enjoy the "pondering" as I have as of late.

Acts 2:42: "And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."

"I also learned that saying yes to more always meant saying no to what really is most important in my life: the tending of my heart; my spiritual health; my marriage; my growth; my kids; my personal time. So while ministry busyness is often worn as a badge of honor, unfortunately, behind that badge we'll typically find a damaged spiritual life, a damaged family, and a damaged career." Doug Fields, What Matters Most (pp. 19-21)

Ok, I am thrilled that the Jayhawks made it to the Sweet 16, and Roy has another ring (I wouldn't say I was "thrilled" for Roy, but the fact that I am happy for he and the Heels would be an accurate statement). Changing to a new topic, now that the season has ended-looking forward to '09-'10!.

Last week I had a "flash from the past" via blog from a friend about the SBU Bobsled Team (of which I was a part). The blog is, in many ways, hysterical (probably more so for me than anyone else). I have included the link below, and if you have time to read it, you may get a good laugh from it. If nothing else, the pictures will bring the question, "who is that guy?". Have a blessed week, and I hope you enjoy it!

http://broray.blogspot.com/2009/04/sbu-bobsled-team.html

What a wonderful time we had in worship two nights ago! Stories from the folks at BVBC poured out, recounting what has taken place over the past several weeks as they have actively shared their faith in various ways. With Lance Harshbarger and Mike Muck leading the way, many who have never shared, and many more who have never heard, were engaged with the gospel in a real way. It was both moving and challenging to hear of all that God has done.

What encourages me even more is the future focus. Looking forward, but Lance and Mike are excited about opportunities to continue leading teams, holding new training opportunities, and intentionally sharing their faith in this community. It is not too late to be a part! If you have interest, please contact either Lance or Mike, and JUMP IN! God is doing a mighty work, and you have an amazing opportunity to be a part!

And the tourney starts..........TODAY!

We are soon to be off-and-running with the Big Dance today! I have filled out my 6 brackets, and am looking forward to watching all of the games over the next couple of days. It will be hard to be last year's run with KU taking the crown, but I am cautiously optimistic for this year (if that is possible). We'll see how today goes vs. North Dakota State. According to Seth Davis on CBS, this is the worst case scenario and worst possible draw for the Jayhawks-so we'll see. I would like to say that I have picked them to go all the way in every bracket, but to be honest I haven't (as I did last year). It should be fun.

Short, but sweet. The games begin soon, so...enjoy watching! On Monday we'll know the Sweet 16 pairings, and I will look forward to writing more then!

Sunday nights have been incredible! After three weeks of training with Lance Harshbarger and Mike Muck, teams have now been "in the field" for two straight weeks. In that time, God has done much in the way of seeds being planted, and the gospel being shared. While we will be "out of the loop" this Sunday evening due to Spring Break, we will return for one week of mobilization, the following week have the quarterly church conference, and capping the past several weeks with a celebration service on Sunday evening, April 5. Please plan to be a part of this incredible evening, where stories will be shared about more of God's movement in our lives and hearts. Praise God for what He is doing in this time, in this place, in His way!

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes. First for the Jews, then for the Gentiles." Romans 1:16 (NIV)

What a great weekend all the way around! From the students growing like crazy, to the parents being affirmed and challenged, to Derrick's message about what is to come for BVBC in the coming days, WOW! I enjoyed being a part of the parent weekend, and having the opportunity to not only spend time with, but once again learn from, John and Angela Herrington. They have been and are great influencers on all they come into contact with, and their love relationship with the Lord coupled with their love for each other and their kids was amazing to hear/see/experience. God is truly doing a mighty work. as we walk and grow with the King this week, may we continually put Him in the forefront of all we are, and all we do. Below is a picture of John and I, one of my true ministry heroes! Have a blessed week!

On Saturday, we had our semi-annual leadership training event. 4 guest speakers poured their lives into our Sunday School teachers: Donnie Simpson (adults), Todd Fannin (Students), Nancy Herman (Children), and Sondi Scroggins (Preschool). Each brought unique stories and challenges, and we are grateful for all four and their giftedness. One overriding theme of the day: continue to share the gospel as we are going. We can all get in the rut of "COME...to BVBC; COME....to experience; COME...to our doorstep. The Word is clear: we are to go. As new opportunities are on the horizon (class mission projects, Way of the Master training opportunity Feb. 8, 15, 22, and March 1 with Lance Harshbarger and Mike Muck on Sunday evenings; our every moment opportunities at work, school, and in the community to share), we all need to remain open to what God is calling us to. Not COME; but GO.

Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to everyone who believes; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

Last night's service was a very special one, as three men were ordained as Deacons. Not only do these men have a heart to serve, but they love those people and truly have a heart of friendship to those they come into contact with. It is a privilege to call each of these men and their families friends, and to have been in the room last night. Derrick's message from Titus 1 was both pertinent and powerful as he challenged not only the three, but every individual present.

"For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it." (vv. 7-9, ESV)

As we continue to press forward in the days ahead, we will all be challenged to continually walk with our Savior on a moment-by-moment, day-by-day basis, with His transforming our hearts, minds, and lives to be more like Himself. What a work God is doing! And what a joy to be a part of the lives of those He is changing.

            Alan and Debbie Foster    "AFos"

     Jonathan and Aimee Wiggins    "JWiggy"

        Nick and Jill Bluel    "Niko"

So far, so good. After today, I will be caught up with my reading (3 chapters behind). I have never personally read on this passage and book track before (beginning in Genesis, Ezra, Matthew, and Acts), but am excited about reading and sticking to the schedule. There are so many challenges posed, and the threads between the books and chapters have been very interesting (especially with being in Genesis in Sunday School and Acts in the worship services). At the end of Matthew 11 last night, verses 28-30 came to the forefront: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."  Though it would be a joy to put the burdens/cares/issues of 2008 totally in the past with a new year, that is not fully a reality for us. Case in point: Tirin's broken leg. While we would love to leave that one behind us, a little more than two weeks remain with the walking boot, and the weeks to follow of her learning to use the leg with freedom again will be fun.  We can, however, follow the advice found at the beginning of that passage: "Come to me". He does lighten our load. His burden is light. God is good. He does care for us, even numbering each hair on our head. He is for us. If 2009 would be year where I would truly go to Him first, with all of my cares, burdens, labor, etc., what more could, should, would I ask for? Continually striving for total dependence-what a great place to be, live, and go. On the journey with together with you-2009, here we come!

How is the Bible reading going? The challenge from my blog last week was to "go with gusto" into the coming year's challenge to read through the Word. Hope you are keeping pace, and are staying encouraged!

The last excerpt from One Incredible Moment by Max Lucado, entitled "Seeking The Savior".

"Simeon (said), 'Can I stay alive until I see him?' The Magi (said), 'Saddle up the camels. We aren't stopping until we find him.' The shepherds (said), 'Let's go...Let's see.'...

They wanted the Savior. They wanted to see Jesus. They were earnest in their search. One translation renders Hebrews 11:6: 'God...rewards those who earnestly seek him' (NIV).

Another reads, 'God rewards those who search for him' (Phillips).

And another: 'God...rewards those who sincerely look for him' (TLB).

I like the King James translation: 'He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him'.

Diligently--what a great word. Be diligent in your search. Be hungry in your quest, relentless in your pilgrimage. Let this book be but one of dozens you read about Jesus and this hour be but one of hundreds in which you seek him. Step away from the puny pursuits of possessions and positions, and seek your king.

Don't be satisfied with angels. Don't be content with stars in the sky. Seek him out as the shepherds did. Long for him as Simeon did. Worship him as the wise men did...Risk whatever it takes to see Christ.

God rewards those who seek him. Not those who seek doctrine or religion or systems or creeds. Many settle for the lesser passions, but the reward goes to those who settle for nothing less than Jesus himself." Just Like Jesus

2 days from now, we will be saying to each other "Happy New Year". It is hard to believe yet another year has passed, and we will soon be in 2009. 5 years ago Tirin was only 6 months old. 10 years ago I met Tiffany at Sam's Club. 15 years ago I was 5 months from graduating from Southwest Baptist in Bolivar. 20 years ago I had just completed my first semester at Wichita State University. 25 years ago I was a freshman in middle school, and our family had lived in Wichita for 5 months. I was days away from receiving Christ but didn't know it! 30 years ago I was nine, and our family had just moved to Goddard, Kansas. 35 years ago I was 4. 4 YEARS OLD! In 5 years Tirin will be 10, and Ethan 7. In 15 years, Tirin will be college-aged, and Ethan ready to graduate from high school. How Time flies!

One month ago, Tirin broke her leg at school. While the initial few days were tiring for her and difficult in many respects, the at-that-time cast (which extended from the bottom of her foot to her hip) will, in two days, become a walking cast. In four weeks, if all goes well, the cast will be gone, and she will be running and having a blast with her friends, with only a distant memory of a cast that, at times, felt so heavy.

The older we get, the more quickly time flies. And all of us have "casts" of some sort. Things we need to shed in the coming year. For some of us (and yes I AM DEFINITELY including myself), a few pounds need to go. For others of us (and once again I am in the mix), some of the debt needs to go. For others of us (and, making the trifecta, once again included), shaking some of the spiritual cobwebs loose will be an important part of our new year. And there is no better time to start than now!

With the challenge on the horizon at BVBC to read through the Word in 2009, I encourage all of us to go after it with gusto, and continue to pursue it all year long. You are a special part of this church family, and of the body of Christ at large. I pray that 2009 is way beyond happy for you and yours, and is filled with His love and joy more than ever before (with broken casts filling the roadsides for all of us). Joyous New Year!

Another awesome segment from Max Lucado's One Incredible Moment entitled, "To Win Your Love".

"Here is what we want to know. We want to know how long God's love will endure...Does God really love us forever? Not just on...Sunday when our shoes are shined and our hair is fixed. We want to know...how does God feel about me when I'm a jerk? Not when I'm peppy and positive and ready to tackle world hunger. Not then. I know how he feels about me then. Even I like me then.

I want to know how he feels about me when I snap an anything that moves, when my thoughts are gutter-level, when my tongue is sharp enough to slice a rock. How does he feel about me then?...

Can anything separate us from the love Christ has for us?

God answered our question before we asked it. So we'd see his answer, he lit the sky with a star. So we'd hear it, he filled the night with a choir; and so we'd believe it, he did what no man had ever dreamed of. He became flesh and dwelt among us. He placed his hand on the shoulder of humanity and said, 'You're something special.'" In The Grip Of Grace

"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

I ran across a chapter from Max Lucado's One Incredible Moment entitled, "The Meek Were Kneeling" I would like to share this week.

"'Blessed are the meek,' Jesus explained. Blessed are the available. Blessed are the conduits, the tunnels, the tools...

that's why the announcement went first to the shepherds. They didn't ask God if he was sure he knew what he was doing. Had the angel gone to theologians, they would have first consulted their commentaries. Had he gone to the elite, they would have looked around to see if anyone was watching. Had he gone to the successful, they would have first looked at their calendars.

So he went to the shepherds. Men who didn't have a reputation to protect or an ax to grind or a ladder to climb. Men who didn't know enough to tell God that angels don't sing to sheep and that messiahs aren't found wrapped in rags and sleeping in a feeding trough...

A small cathedral outside Bethlehem marks the supposed birthplace of Jesus. Behind an altar in the church is a cave, a little cavern lit by silver lamps. You can enter the main edifice and admire the ancient church. You can also enter the quiet cave where a star embedded in the floor recognizes the birth of the King. There is one stipulation, however. You have to stoop. The door is so low you can't go in standing up.

The same is true of the Christ. You can see the world standing tall, but to witness the Savior, you have to get down on your knees.

So...

while the theologians were sleeping and the elite were dreaming and the successful were snoring, the meek were kneeling. They were kneeling before the ONe only the meek will see. They were kneeling in front of Jesus." The Applause of Heaven

In my devotional last week, I ran across this story in The 12 Ways of Christmas by David Jeremiah on pages 18-25, and was so challenged I wanted to share it with you. It is a good reminder before we get into the season of Christmas.

"Jim and Della were young, starting their marriage with nothing and getting by on little more. Eight dollars a week for a flat took a big bite out of Jim's twenty-dollar-a-week salary. But what they lacked in material things, they made up for with love. Christmas came and Della despaired over the $1.87 (60 cents of it in pennies) she had been able to save for Jim's Christmas present-until she looked in the mirror and saw the one thing she had that was worth something: her beautiful knee-length hair. Jim loved her long hair, but it would grow back. And with the money she could buy Jim a gold chain for his most valued possession-the watch he had inherited from his grandfather, then his father. With the $20 in hand she got for her hair, she bought the gold chain and waited anxiously for Jim to get home from work.

His crestfallen face at the sight of Della's short hair was not for the reason she thought. He professed his love for her regardless of the length of her hair, then handed Della his gift for her: a set of tortoiseshell combs with jeweled edges for Della to wear in her now-gone hair-bought with the money he got for his heirloom gold watch. Two young lovers sacrificed all they had for the sake of their beloved's joy at Christmas. O. Henry's short story 'The Gift of the Magi' has become a Christmas classic because it reveals the heart of the Christmas story: sacrificial love. The author himself concluded his story this way: 'But in a last word to the wise of these days, let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are th wisest.' Why? because Della and Jim discovered that love and sacrifice are synonyms, that the deeper the cost of giving, the deeper the experience of love and joy. Sacrifice, of course, is what the true Christmas story is all about. It is not so much about giving as it is about sacrificing. (All sacrifice is giving, but not all giving is sacrifice.) Even if God had more than one Son to give up for the sake of His sin-stained creation, to give even one would have been sacrifice. But to send His only Son from the glory of heaven to the grind of earth, knowing what would befall Him while He was here-that's sacrifice.

Sacrifice means to give to another person something we could have kept for ourselves. It means to choose, to deny, to love, to give, and to find the deepest pleasure in another's joy. Because the heart of the Christmas message is sacrifice, we ought to look for ways this year to give sacrificially. That doesn't necessarily mean emptying your bank account for the pour of of a guilt complex. It means to look for ways to put others' needs, desires, and joy ahead of your own."

Acts 20:35 "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

When all had ended last evening, Tiffany and I talked through the gratefulness we have for being at BVBC. The relationships we have had the opportunity to form and solidify over the past year have been amazing, and we both feel truly blessed to be in OP. Several images stand out from last night. Smiles all around. Laughter heard throughout. Old friendship shared, and new friendships being built. A picture of Derrick in star glasses on the big screen. How can it get any better? Three moments bring it home for our family.

1)Tiffany allowed Tirin to build and carry her own plate last night. Being a 5-year old and trying to gingerly walk with a full plate, she tipped and spilled it. Within 5 seconds Julie Chastain was right there, telling Tirin it was ok, and that the 3-second rule was definitely in effect (though she did get Tirin fresh food). WOW! While I missed that moment, Tiffany welled up when sharing it with me, as she did the same. Moment One: Julie's care for Tirin.

2)Another Tirin story. We allowed her to go to the table and get her own dessert. While I watched her the whole time, Mike Bailey helped Tirin select her items, and escorted her back to the table (carrying one of the two plates she filled for she and Ethan). Another WOW! Moment Two: Mike Bailey watching out for my little girl.

3)Towards the end, Ethan went on an adventure with Evan Schmidt in the storage room adjacent to the choir room. When I noticed he had slipped away, I asked Tiffany, and another friend quickly mentioned he had went into the choir room. Upon entering, Kirk Chastain said that Ethan was in the storage closet with Evan on an adventure. And yet another example of someone caring for our kids. Moment Three: Kirk and other men watching out for my son.

Blue Valley Baptist Church: A Place For You. Phrases that fit even more for the Rays last night: Blue Valley Baptist Church: a church FAMILY (and I mean, family--brothers and sisters in Christ) who genuinely care for each other, from the biggest to the smallest, in the morning, afternoon, and evening. BVBC: A place where God is at work, and His love is evidenced by the love people have for each another (I believe that is a verse somewhere...oh yes: "By this all men will know that you are my disciples: by your love for one another." John 13:34-35)

What a joy to be a part of what God is doing. There has been so much to be thankful for in the last year, that we feel we have experienced "Thanksgiving" nearly every day. We trust your day, week, and holiday are special, filled with His love and life. Thank-you for all that you are and do. We love you church family!

KU vs. Texas. An early start at 11:30am. John (dad) and Joel (son) Thomas on Senior Day (Joel plays in the marching band at KU). 

400 below zero outside, which included increments of blowing snow. 16 layers of clothing, which weren't nearly enough. Hard hitting action, which included the Hawks getting pummeled. COLLEGE FOOTBALL AT ITS FINEST (other than the temperature, and oh of course the loss)!

Special friends, special moments in time, definite joy shared by brothers in Christ. With the holidays upcoming, I trust the moments experienced with your family and friends will be heartfelt and include many meaningful memories. This Sunday night will be one of those times for our church family to experience just that at the Thanksgiving dinner. Don't miss it! If you have not yet reserved spots for you and/or your family, call the church office today to do so! TURKEY ON!

I was thinking through Derrick's sermon yesterday and this morning, "Great Expectations". As he talked through the expectation of power and trials from Acts 5, my mind went to a few of my favorite verses in James.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all, and it will be given to him." (James 1:2-5)

While serving in Omaha, my then-boss (now Director of a Church Planting Center in Texas), John Herrington, read those verses on many occasions from the Phillips paraphrase:

"When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed, and you will find you have become men of mature character, men of integrity with no weak spots. And if, in the process, any of you does not know how to meet any particular problem he has only to ask God--who gives generously to all men without making them feel guilty--and he may be quite sure that the necessary wisdom will be given him."

Often times, to be honest, when trials come, my first thought is not "Hey! That problem is my friend!" Actually, I accept them in the exact opposite way. I do often view them as intruders and do not recognize the work God is trying to accomplish in my life to be drawn closer and to become more like Himself. The challenge this week, then? To "take every thought captive", and to view trials through God's eyes more than our own, knowing that He is refining our lives through those opportunities to become more like His.

It is hard to believe the month of October has already come and gone. During that month, the following happened: the staff started meeting daily for prayer in the sanctuary at 8:30am; several Sunday School class gatherings took place; my parents and niece/nephew were in town; we made a trip to Texas to see Tiff's family; all four in our family were sick with the flu (thank heavens that is now gone); Trunk or Treat along with Halloween took place; Tirin's soccer season ended; and a partridge in a pear tree (oh, that is next month). A lot of great memories were made this month, and God did some amazing things. November has now begun with the first exhibition Jayhawk bball game going in the books last night vs. Washburn, the election finishing last night, and the crazy holiday season ahead. In the midst of (what seems to be a running theme in my blogs as of late) the "busyness", a verse came to the forefront in my quiet time today:

"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 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. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3:15-17)

As our families walk through the months of November and December, it is critical that we all "let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts"- and "let the word of Christ RICHLY dwell in us". There are many who are in desperate need of a Savior, and the peace only God can give is available to each one. Walk with joy this week, doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus giving thanks to Him. In so doing, He will be honored and praised!

Last weekend, Tiffany and I were asked to lead a Student Ministry Team Training event in Virginia Beach at Kempsville Baptist Church. The Student Pastor and wife are Tim (pictured with me below) and Jen Zittle. We first became friends while attending Southwestern Seminary, and have continued in that relationship together over the past 9 years. While I served at Foothllis Baptist in Phoenix and at Westside Church in Omaha, they traveled on many occasions to serve as Disciple Now leaders with our students, and we were able to coordinate our dates for church camp with our student ministries twice. They are great friends, and it was a joy to see all that God has done in their lives, and in the lives of their leadership team over the past year and one-half.

On Saturday, the leadership team discussed the following quote from Doug Fields (from his book What Matters Most): "In the end, busyness makes us look important but cripples our relationships. Busyness feeds our egos but ultimately starves our souls. Busyness fills our calendars but fractures our families. And busyness props up our image but shrinks our hearts."

All in the room expressed the busyness of our driven culture. One couple shared of the importance their family places on spending time together, and how more often than not they prioritize eating dinner together at home. In addition to dinner, each member of the family has to talk about one good and one bad that takes place in their day at the table. They even went to the extent of saying that all guests during dinner are asked to share as well. WOW! That is impressive, especially in the midst of our "busyness". In our moments together on Saturday in particular, we were able to verbally lift each other up and challenge each other to love God and people more. Here is the encouragement for the week: Don't allow your "busyness" to eliminate relationship over the next seven days. Carve out moments with those closest to you to ask how they are doing (really) and to share some encouragement. In so doing, you will be a blessing beyond measure.

One of the ways I often like to start out the day when driving to work is by shuffling all of Hillsong United's music on my IPod. The first song is always "Point of Difference", which has rapidly become one of my favorites.  For the blog today (post the 30th Anniversary celebration of BVBC), I pray that God continues to fill our hearts with His fire!

Lyrics to Point Of Difference :
The tide is turning, this is redemptions hour
in the midst of a world lost for love, You are all we have now
the lost returning, salvation is all around
in the midst of the world broken down, You are all we have now
for You are God and this hope is ours

So Father open the skies
flood the earth with Your light
this is love, to break the world indifferent, say

Our hearts are burning, a fire that won't burn out
in the midst of a world that's grown cold, You are all we have now
the earth resounding, the anthem of your reknown
as we lift up our eyes, and look to Your glory

Call us out, let the world see
You are God, and this hope is ours
so call us out, let the world see
You are God, as we sing

So Father open the skies, flood the earth with Your light
this is love, to break the world indifferent
as we lift up our eyes, fill our hearts with Your fire
in a world of sin, we'll be different, the difference

Our eyes are open, every chain now broken
in this world, we are different
let Your love become us, as we live to make You famous
in this world, we are different
so call us out, let the world see
You are God, as we sing

So call us out, let the world see
You are God, one and only
in this world, You are all we have now

Our kids love to draw. While any artistic bend did not come from me (definitely from Tiffany), Tirin and Ethan both love all forms, whether it be drawing, coloring, painting, attaching stickers, etc. Their favorite part comes not in the doing, however, but in the giving away their work. A couple of weeks ago, they both woke up on a Saturday ready to break out the markers and crayons. They began in a coloring book, working on pictures for my parents, then Tiff's parents, then Aunt Gale, and so on. We spent a good part of the morning together at the kitchen table, and the kids had a blast. We mailed those to my parents a few days later, and on Friday of last week received a couple of pictures drawn by my dad (a truck for Ethan and a forest for Tirin) and a note from my mom in response. They both enjoyed the pictures, and wanted to sit down and color something else for them and send it right away. Ethan liked his so much that he had to sleep with the picture from "gapa"!

Yesterday we launched into Genesis in Sunday School. "In the beginning, God created..." (Gen. 1:1). It is easy to walk through the day without taking notice of the beauty of God's creation. Flowers. Trees. The sky. The sun. The clouds. And so on. It is also easy to walk through the day, so consumed with our own lives, that we can forget to take time to say an encouraging word, or send a "I caught your child doing something good yesterday" email, or (like my kids and dad) draw a picture for someone and pop it in the mail. After all, they joy should come in the giving. I encourage you to take a least one moment this week to see something you haven't in a while (or ever before), thanking God for the beauty of His creation, and to create something for someone else-Picasso or not (at the least a kind phrase we would not have normally said in our normal course of the day). In so doing, watch how your life and the lives of others will be enriched and driven more to a heart of gratitude towards our Creator, the lover of our souls.

Tiffany and I were talking on Saturday night about how quickly last week flew by. With preparing for the new schedule at church/the Fall getting in full-swing, school, and soccer-and trying to work through more boxes at home-the week came and went in what seemed like the blink of an eye. There were moments in the office and at home (Thursday and Saturday) outside of my regular quiet time where I intentionally took the opportunity to do as Psalm 46:10 instructs: "Be still, and know that I am God". In an ever-changing world, with cities that "never sleep", having the consistent discipline of stopping and being still before our King can be a challenge. To be honest, I believe it had been 3-4 weeks since I had intentionally stopped to simply be still and know that He is God and is in control-and to thank Him for that fact.

I encourage you this week to schedule time to do just that...to be still AND know that He is God. He loves you and wants you to engage Him in relationship on a moment-by-moment, day-by-day basis. If that takes place at home, in the office, on your back porch, or in your car for a short period of time before you begin driving, simply be still and know Him. In doing so, the Holy Spirit will refresh your heart, life, and vision for the moments that await.

The first week of school has come and gone. Tiffany and I did survive Tirin's entering Kindergarten, and yes, Tirin survived as well. When I entered the church office after "the family walk" to school on Monday morning, 5 boxes of Kleenex were waiting on my desk. The boxes came on the heels of my statement the week before: "My little girl is growing up", of which those on staff with older kids reassured that this is only the beginning-and then, they (we) laughed . :) Ok, (admittedly) I was a little emotional. But that is my little girl! Verses memorized from my childhood came to mind in that moment:

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

Trusting Him with Tirin, with "all of my heart", for day 1 of a new phase of her life was the issue (along with just being a sappy dad). I know He is fully trustworthy, and does make our paths straight, even when our emotions may try to lean us in different directions. Knowing that our God is constant, and is the same yesterday, today, and forever is so comforting in the midst of our joyous and difficult days-and everywhere in between. Today, be encouraged. If you are struggling in the area of trust, go over those verses again, knowing that He will make your paths straight, even when you "feel" they are crooked. And remember: it is always good to have a new box of Puffs waiting in the wings when you need it.

Here we are at our third and final week of looking at a list of the 63 practical ideas children suggested to spend time with their parents, found in The 10 Building Blocks for a Happy Family by Jim Burns (pg. 29).  Keep responding, and let's here how the final week goes! Way to go parents!

43)Go on a hike.    44)Plant a garden together.    45)Play board games or card games.    46)Fish.    47)Sail.    48)Play tennis.    49)Play croquet.    50)Go river rafting or tubing.    51)Play badminton.    52)Build a tree house.    53)Go to a casual dinner but dress up.    54)Make homemade ice cream.    55)Bake cookies.    56)Attend a play.    57)Go to the movies.    58)Go to a sports event.    59)Visit a swap meet or garage sale.    60)Feed ducks.    61)Go to the circus.    62)Go to the county fair.    63)Volunteer at a soup kitchen.

We are in the second week of looking at a list of the 63 practical ideas children suggested to spend time with their parents, found in The 10 Building Blocks for a Happy Family by Jim Burns (pg. 29).  If you try these out, please respond to the blog and let us know how they went. Week 2 here we come!

22)Visit a museum.    23)Ride bikes.    24)Learn a hobby.    25)Wash a car.    26)Rollerblade.    27)Climb a tree.    28)Climb a mountain.    29)Eat creatively one whole day for $1.29.    30)Picnic.    31)Shop for cars.    32)Go to the airport and watch people.    33)Visit the beach or lake.    34)Ice skate.    35)Shop.    36)Play backgammon.    37)Go horseback riding.    38)Play pinball.    39)Hit golf balls or play miniature golf.    40)Bowl.    41)Play Water sports.    42)Fly a kite.

In The 10 Building Blocks for a Happy Family by Jim Burns (pg. 29), 63 practical ideas are listed for spending time with your children. Over the next three weeks, I will list out the ideas for you and your family to try. The list is specifically created by children aged 6-18 of activities they would like to do with their parent or parents. I realize that you may already be doing some of these, and others only happen during the school year. But I encourage you, if you try these out, please respond to the blog and let us know how they went. Enjoy!

1)Make daily phone calls.    2)Plan weekly dates.    3.Establish special traditions.    4)Attend their games and plays.    5)Drive them to school.    6)Put together puzzles.    7)Watch a special TV program and eat popcorn.    8)Write them notes.    9)Take them on a business trip.    10)Take photography lessons together.    11)Play tennis.    12)Skip rocks and have a contest.    13)Write a letter to God.    14)Walk the dog.    15)Read a good book together.    16)Go out for breakfast or doughnuts.    17)Take pictures.    18)Go to the park.    19)Visit the library and ask the librarian a bizarre question.    20)Develop a new laugh together.    21)Visit the zoo.

Things are finally settling in, and we are getting unpacked. By July of 2010, we should be good to go (at least, that is how it is feeling at this point)! We were able to make some good progress this weekend, and hope the coming weekends will prove to be the same. 

It has been a blast to work with such a talented and focused leadership team this summer. Two recent events were the student mission trip to the College World Series led by JWes Crockett, our Director of Students, and Vacation Bible School led by our Director of Children's Ministry, Harriet Bennett. Both were tremendous as many individuals deepened in their relationship with the Lord, and others came into a personal relationship with Christ. While I was unable to attend the mission trip, the stories of the ways God worked in Omaha as the students and adults passed out water bottles with the plan of salvation on them were amazing. I was able to see and be part of VBS daily. Four of us attempted to provide some "comic relief" during large group: JWes, Jonathan Lock, Jonathan Wiggins, and I as surfers (JWes, JWiggins and I are pictured below as snowboarders). We really enjoyed being with the kids, and look forward to seeing what our roles will be in 2009 (although Tiffany and I will probably still be unpacking boxes at home as mentioned earlier-garage sale to come-does anyone need a 1974 toaster oven?).

Three words come to mind when considering the above: service, evangelism, and ministry. When those are lived out, placing the needs of others above our own, sharing Christ with the lost, and utilizing the gifts and talents God has given us for His glory, astounding results occur. God is lifted up, and works and moves in the lives of those involved. In other words, an excellent picture of BVBC in July of 2008. Keep striving in the week ahead. 

I apologize for not having updated my blog over the past three weeks or so. We have been in the process of moving--and life has been as crazy and packed as our new garage. Things will calm down, and I will begin writing again soon--thank-you for bearing with me for now! Keep serving and following Christ hard, and if your life looks like our garage, hang tough--we feel your pain--and are trusting lighter days are ahead!

I hope you have taken some time since last week's blog to chew on the challenge from Dan Webster's book entitled, Increasing Your Personal Impact. Webster discussed in chapter 5 the concept of being a model for others. His challenges are strong, reminding us of the pressures associated with (in essence) "living in a fishbowl", and how very few (if any) individuals are comfortable in doing so. He challenges us to keep in mind if we are to make a deep and lasting impact, actions, attitudes, and other areas will be exposed to those who are looking. How humbling, realizing that left to ourselves, we will fail every time. Our only hope is for Christ to shine through us as we follow Him.

Webster concludes the writing portion of his chapter with the following on pg. 64:

"Living a life that speaks impacts people around us. Doing this is not about faking perfection or pretending to be better than we are. We are repelled by those who communicate a holier-than-thou attitude. The challenge before us is to live a life of integrity. Integrity is about living one life, not two. It's bringing how we live more and more in line with what we say and believe." 

In light of the above paragraph, Webster reminds us of the need to regularly investigate our lives, and to honestly assess if we are demonstrating integrity in the following four areas: family, at work or school, faith, and friendships.

We are all works in progress, and are continually being refined into the men/women God has called us to be. Not one of us can say that we are "there" yet, and none of us will reach that point on this planet. What a wonderful reminder of God's love, grace, and mercy toward us in spite of ourselves. May we all continually strive to live out Luke 9:23: "Then he said to them all: 'If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it."

Consider today the following excerpt is from Increasing Your Personal Impact  by Dan Webster, pp. 59-60.

"I believe that there is a huge difference between a mouth that speaks and a life that speaks. Modeling recognizes that to make an impact we must put on display the life we're inviting others to live. Behavioral scientists say that at least 60% of all we learn is caught by watching others. In church people talk, but in real life people watch. Major breaches of integrity between what we say and how we live only weaken our ability to impact another. So let me ask you...as people watch your life, what do they see? If they walked with you for one week--if they were 'with' you...what would they say matters to you? What truths are you illustrating by how you invest your time and resources? Is there a balance between your words and your life."

This week, a close family to many of us will be transitioning from BVBC. Dan, Lori, Daniel, and Grace Ulichnie will begin their trek to their new home in North Carolina. Tiffany and I were able to build a relationship with Dan and Lori before any children were born to either couple in Phoenix, Arizona. In fact, they were the first outside of the Foothills Baptist staff to befriend Tiffany and I after our move from Ft. Worth in 2000. We have greatly appreciated our relationship with them over the years, and now they are moving away for a second time. Of course we naturally ask the question...is it us? Of course that is not the case! How could it be? At least that is what we tell ourselves. We will miss them once again, but are excited for them, and are challenged by their commitment to follow the Lord in His calling for their family in the move. Recalling memories with the Ulichnie family today, Experiencing God came to mind. One section of Unit 2, Week 5 of the student version (pp. 36-37) entitled "God Speaks With A Purpose" reminds me of Dan and Lori. They are without a doubt responding to God's voice with obedience, and they challenge me to do the same, regardless of the size of the assignment. We will miss you, Dan and Lori, but look forward to vacationing where you are in the days ahead!

"I have known some people who would not interrupt a trip to the mall or a football game for anything in the world. In their mind they say they want to serve God, but they keep eliminating from their life anything that is going to interfere with their own plans. They are so self-centered that they do not recognize the times when God comes to them. If you are God-centered, you will adjust your circumstances to what God wants to do. God has a right to interrupt your life. He is Lord. When you accepted Him as Lord, you gave Him the right to help Himself to your life anytime He wants. Suppose that five times out of ten when the Master had something for the servant to do the servant said, 'I am sorry. That is not on my schedule.' What do you suppose the Master would do? The Master would discipline the servant. If the servant did not respond to the discipline, sooner or later that servant would find that the Master is no longer coming to him with assignments. You may be saying, 'Oh, I wish I could experience God working through me the way John (or Sue) does.' But every time God comes to John, John adjusts his life to God and is obedient. When John has been faithful in  little assignments, God has given him more important assignments.  If you are not willing to be faithful in a little, God cannot give you a larger assignment. The smaller assignments of God are always used of God to develop character. God always develops character to match His assignment. If God has a great assignment for you, He has to develop a great character to match that assignment before He can give you the assignment."

Matthew 25:21 "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"

This Sunday, May 11, we will celebrate Mother's Day. This holiday was first observed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1907, which was based on suggestions given by Julia Ward Howard in 1872 and Anna Jarvis in 1907. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson made the official declaration, announcing Mother's Day would be observed on the second Sunday of May each year. If those three individuals were here today, I would pass along a giant high five, thanking them for their efforts to recognize ladies who pour out so much for so many.

I have numerous memories of my mom, and am grateful to this day for her never-ending sacrifices for my sisters and I. Though we have not had many opportunities over the past 17 years to spend this day together, 2008 will be different, as my parents will be in town for the weekend. An added bonus: my Dad's birthday is Saturday! So, not only will we have the opportunity to spend time with my mom for her special day, but with my dad as well! Along with celebrating Tiffany-year 4 of being a mom-will be a great weekend, filled with more memories!

I trust your Mother's Day is filled with the joy, love, and peace of Christ. For all moms: thank-you! The difference you are making is significant, whether the results are seen in the here-and-now, or will be in the years to come.

"M..is for the million things she gave me,

O...means only that she's growing old,

T...is for the tears she shed to save me,

H...is for her heart of purest gold,

E...is for her eyes, with love-light shining,

R..means right, and righ she'll always be.

Put them all together, they spell 'Mother', A word that means the world to me."

Howard Johnson (c.1915)

The following is a section from The Doctrine of Prayer (pg. 12) by T.W. Hunt. It is a great reminder today of God's care for us. Be encouraged. He knows you so intimately: even the hairs on your head are numbered (Matt. 10:30).

"Prayer can have no meaning unless it takes into account God's total nature. He is holy; we come to Him on those grounds. He is love; we pray knowing that He is concerned about our needs. Because He is merciful, God understands and cares about human need. In most of the prayers of biblical characters, God took the initiative. It is that initiating God who tells us: 'Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened' (Matt. 7:7-8). The greatest saints have always known intuitively, from the depths of their spiritual nature, that God desires to provide for His own. Abraham assured Isaac as he was preparing to ascend Mount Moriah, 'God will provide HImself the lamb for the burnt offering' (Gen. 22:8). Only one who grasped the truth that God is concerned about human need could cry out, 'The Lord is my Shepherd' (Ps. 23:1) or 'The Lord is your keeper' (Ps. 121:5). Supremely, it Jesus who assures us with the most graphic pictures that God is deeply concerned for our needs. He asked, as though it were the most reasonable question imaginable, 'If God so arrays the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much do so for you, O men of little faith?' (Matt. 6:30)"

Last week, we were in Branson for staff retreat. Much was accomplished as we worked through our ministry plans for the coming year. In the midst of meeting, joy and excitement filled the room many times over as a result of what God has been doing, and what we believe He will do in the coming year. We also laughed a ton, as is normally the case with people who enjoy being around each other--and that is definitely true of our staff and families!

One of my ministry heroes over the past decade has been Doug Fields. A common quote found in his books and when he speaks is as follows: "God never intended for you to do life alone, but to do life together in community." That statement is one of the hallmarks of not only our staff families, but of BVBC as a whole.

Matthew 22:37-40 states: "Jesus replied, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

If you have not yet jumped in the journey with us, there is no better time to start. If you are already pouring your life out in this place, continually strive to deepen your relationships with the King and those around you. Loving God and loving people. Doing life together. What could be sweeter?

Last week, I met with a couple of friends for Bible Study at "810 The Sports Zone" in Leawood. The food was excellent, and the time of diving into the 1 Peter was phenomenal. One of the topics of discussion for the day was character, and where it can be seen in our lives. In 2006, J. Countryman published The Quest For Character by John MacArthur. The following is an excerpt from the first chapter, A Humble Spirit, referring to the Pharisees and the Sermon on the Mount. I trust the chiallenge will be as strong with you as it has been for me.

"In the minds of Jesus' listeners, the Pharisees epitomized the highest level of personal righteousness it was possible to attain on earth. Jesus must have stunned the whole crowd when He said all of that wasn't good enough. But the Pharisees' approach to seeking God's approval was all wrong. They were trying to manufacture their own brand of righteousness. In other words, everything they did was tainted with self-righteousness. Instead of making them humble, their religion made them proud and haughty. Jesus' sermon specifically condemned that kind of self-righteousness. He therefore starts with a blessing for broken people who recognize their own spiritual bankruptcy: 'Blessed are the poor in spirit' (Matthew 15:3).

The virtue He is desribing is true spiritual humility. It is a recognition that we have nothing whatsoever that would commend us to God. We are not spiritually affluent. We are not fundamentally good. We are not in any way spiritually self-sufficient. We are fallen sinners in desperate need of a Savior. We are spiritual paupers.

Genuine character starts with that realization. It's a hard and humbling truth to face squarely. but if you try to divorce even the finest of human traits from basic spiritual humility, all the actual virtue is gone. The trait becomes a form of self-righteousness.

If you don't sense your own spiritual poverty, I want to encourage you to meditate on the majesty of God's law and the reality that even one broken commandment would be enough to condemn a person. Scripture says, 'Whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all' (James 2:10).

Contemplate that truth while realizing that everyone one of us has transgressed God's law not once but countless times, and you will begin to grasp why humility before God is the first and most essential virtue. Our spiritual need is far greater than any of us truly realizes. But if you can begin to grasp the idea, it ought to impress on your heart a deep sense of spiritualual poverty. At our very best, we ar nothing more than spiritual beggars. And that, Jesus said, is the first step toward the kind of character God can bless."