a new revelation
i was sitting in the preparation meetings for presbytery, and was struck with a thought. as i was looking at the timeline of the Christian church, there was a high at the start- then a constant downward slope to the Dark Ages. that stagnant line continued on for a while- many, many, many years. but then there was one man who decided to change his life, God did a work in his heart, and up goes the slope. and to today, it's still climbing. but the only reason it's still climbing is because there are people who care- people who have a desire to see the kingdom of God come. God has done a work in their heart, and they are obidient to His calling. as i was thinking about what this means for our church, i was challenged. i saw that this summer we have alot of our key people in the college ministry graduating, and i found myself wondering what that means for the ministry. i know that it will keep going, and there will still be fruit. but to this point we have never seen fruit like we're seeing now in the campuses around the area. we have students who have a hunger for the Lord, and it's by this hunger and joining with the friends around them that relationships are built, bonds are formed, and there is accountability. these relationships that are forged are strongholds against the fortresses of darkness; because "where two or more are gathered...". there is someone there at your side when you get weary to say, "you know what, you can do this. you can press on. i'm here to support you, and that means that we're in this till the end." so i'm challenged to keep the relationships that have been formed even after they leave. i've seen to many people that have great relationships leave after college and loose touch. but it's by these relationships that the we have a launching pad for the Kingdom of God. and i'll also pray that God raises up others in their place with just as much passion as they had.
changes and challenges
there are so many things that happen in a day it seems, that there's no way to even keep up. life is moving all around me, and yet i seem to have the same routine; with a few bumps.
the college students are on break for week. i realize whenever they leave for break how much we'll miss them when they're done with school and move back home or to a new job. i pray that some will find jobs around here- what a blessing it's been to have such great men and women of God in the church and on the campuses. i truly believe that there's a great campus move happening, and the people that are leading the way are the dedicated leaders that we have. this really is the best group of spirit-filled students that we've ever had. we'll miss them when they leave.
every year when my birthday arrives i have a heart searching that takes place. i don't want to stay stagnant; i want to be effective for the kingdom. i want to be a leader- an example- a disciple. i've noticed how the Lord has shaped me in this past year- what new things He's done in my life, and the kind of changes that have taken place. i'm excited to see some things; and challenged by others.
but it's only by this challenge that i will succeed.
and so i press on.
just a quick update
so just a quick update on our lives....
we're back from nyc. michael buble' was absolutely incredible; the best live artist we've seen yet. totally entertaining, completely talented, and the ability to sing..........wow is all that describes it.
we had great weather and were totally blessed with no rain, snow, hail or sleet for the entire trip. clear bright blue skies, with a decent amount of wind. you wouldn't want to have to walk to far though since the wind did a number on you after a while.
the week continues tomorrow with the normal happenings of a week....with one exception. THERE ARE TWO HOURS OF 24 TOMORROW NIGHT!! yes folks; that's a big one. two full hours! it's going to be crazy in jack bauer land......
counting my blessings
there's been alot stewing the past few days in my pea brain. Alot to think about, alot to ponder, alot to pray about.
one thing i'm thankful for however, is faithful friends who stand by you through everything. there's a bond that's created; a love that's formed, a relationship that's established on a firm foundation, and an emotional tie that's not easily broken. there truly is something special about a few select people. and i don't take it for granted. it's a true blessing to have select individuals placed in your life for a purpose-- to fulfill the purposes of God in our lives. to stand with one another in unity, see the devil overthrown, and let God have His way. It truly is a blessing.
it's off to NYC this weekend- michael buble' in radio city music hall @ rockefeller center. should be a grand ol' time. my in-laws are going also, so we will have tons of fun together. and of course, driving the new car down is fun all on it's own. :)
