Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Is Church Relevant?
I hope that you take a look at your own life as you read this.
I'd been going to church all of my life, but I couldn't help but feel like I was missing something.By Danny Huizinga as told to Amy Adair
I slid into the pew next to my family, glanced at the bulletin, and sighed. The sermon was on marriage. I knew it would be just another Sunday where the church service went right over my head.
When the pastor got up to preach, I zoned out. I woke up when the choir started singing the last hymn.
I was relieved to go home, but felt a little disappointed. Lately I'd been feeling like church wasn't really for me. None of it seemed to matter to my life and the things I struggled with day-to-day, like my friendships. I'd gone to church all my life, but I couldn't help but feel like I was missing something.
On the ride home, I flipped through the bulletin again and noticed that the youth group was starting up later that evening. I'd just started seventh grade, and I was finally old enough to join.
When I got to youth group that night, I was totally pumped. I also was surprised at how many people I already knew from church and school. I fit right in. It wasn't long before Ron, our youth pastor, introduced himself. I could tell he was on fire for Christ and wanted people like me to feel that same excitement.
After a while, the praise band started singing. Singing had always been my favorite part of church. But there were a lot of times when I didn't even think about the words. Ron encouraged us to focus on what the songs meant and see singing as a way to worship God. As we sang one song after another, I really started to feel connected to Christ.
The night got even better when Ron got up to talk. He started telling us about David and Jonathan's friendship in 1 Samuel 18. It was a story I'd heard a million times before. But Ron actually made it relevant to my life.
"We can learn a lot from these guys," Ron told the group. "They were true friends. You need to choose your friends wisely, too. Your closest friends should be people who help build up your faith."
After youth group ended, I thought long and hard about Ron's words. I had a good friend, Tim*, who wasn't the best influence. He swore all the time and talked a lot about drinking. It wasn't an easy thing to do, but over the next few months I stopped spending so much time with him. Instead, I hung out with friends from youth group and invited Tim to join us.
Although Tim never took me up on my offer, I kept going back to youth group. Ron seemed to make every story from the Bible mean something to my life. Like the story about Abraham and Sarah. Before, I always thought it was just a story about two old people who had a kid. But Ron asked us to imagine what it would be like to have the kind of faith that God wanted Abraham and Sarah to have.
I wanted that kind of faith. Although I'd been reading my Bible for as long as I could remember, I'd never really taken time to understand it. I read it because it was the right thing to do.
It wasn't easy, but I started reading a few verses at a time and really tried to understand what it meant. If I had questions, I asked Ron or my parents. Over time, my understanding of the Bible grew. So did my faith.
I've been going to youth group for three years. I no longer read the Bible because I feel like I have to. I read it because I want to grow closer to God. My attitude about church has changed, too.
I stopped tuning out when I thought the sermon wasn't going to matter to me.
I was surprised at how much I could learn just by paying attention to the verses my pastor used. Sure, not every sermon directly relates to my life, but I know I can always learn something. And now I know that I really do belong at church and especially at youth group.
Danny, a freshman, has been playing the piano for seven years and loves to play with the praise band at youth group.
I'd been going to church all of my life, but I couldn't help but feel like I was missing something.By Danny Huizinga as told to Amy Adair
I slid into the pew next to my family, glanced at the bulletin, and sighed. The sermon was on marriage. I knew it would be just another Sunday where the church service went right over my head.
When the pastor got up to preach, I zoned out. I woke up when the choir started singing the last hymn.
I was relieved to go home, but felt a little disappointed. Lately I'd been feeling like church wasn't really for me. None of it seemed to matter to my life and the things I struggled with day-to-day, like my friendships. I'd gone to church all my life, but I couldn't help but feel like I was missing something.
On the ride home, I flipped through the bulletin again and noticed that the youth group was starting up later that evening. I'd just started seventh grade, and I was finally old enough to join.
When I got to youth group that night, I was totally pumped. I also was surprised at how many people I already knew from church and school. I fit right in. It wasn't long before Ron, our youth pastor, introduced himself. I could tell he was on fire for Christ and wanted people like me to feel that same excitement.
After a while, the praise band started singing. Singing had always been my favorite part of church. But there were a lot of times when I didn't even think about the words. Ron encouraged us to focus on what the songs meant and see singing as a way to worship God. As we sang one song after another, I really started to feel connected to Christ.
The night got even better when Ron got up to talk. He started telling us about David and Jonathan's friendship in 1 Samuel 18. It was a story I'd heard a million times before. But Ron actually made it relevant to my life.
"We can learn a lot from these guys," Ron told the group. "They were true friends. You need to choose your friends wisely, too. Your closest friends should be people who help build up your faith."
After youth group ended, I thought long and hard about Ron's words. I had a good friend, Tim*, who wasn't the best influence. He swore all the time and talked a lot about drinking. It wasn't an easy thing to do, but over the next few months I stopped spending so much time with him. Instead, I hung out with friends from youth group and invited Tim to join us.
Although Tim never took me up on my offer, I kept going back to youth group. Ron seemed to make every story from the Bible mean something to my life. Like the story about Abraham and Sarah. Before, I always thought it was just a story about two old people who had a kid. But Ron asked us to imagine what it would be like to have the kind of faith that God wanted Abraham and Sarah to have.
I wanted that kind of faith. Although I'd been reading my Bible for as long as I could remember, I'd never really taken time to understand it. I read it because it was the right thing to do.
It wasn't easy, but I started reading a few verses at a time and really tried to understand what it meant. If I had questions, I asked Ron or my parents. Over time, my understanding of the Bible grew. So did my faith.
I've been going to youth group for three years. I no longer read the Bible because I feel like I have to. I read it because I want to grow closer to God. My attitude about church has changed, too.
I stopped tuning out when I thought the sermon wasn't going to matter to me.
I was surprised at how much I could learn just by paying attention to the verses my pastor used. Sure, not every sermon directly relates to my life, but I know I can always learn something. And now I know that I really do belong at church and especially at youth group.
Danny, a freshman, has been playing the piano for seven years and loves to play with the praise band at youth group.
Wow. Someone shared this video and I immediately watched it. Penn is a staunch atheist and also a illusionist. I've been aware of his work for many years and he is a great thinker, but sadly he does not believe God exists and therefore believes he has no need for Christ. This story really made me think.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JHS8adO3hM&eurl=http://www.planetwisdom.com/marksblog/2008/12/wow.html&feature=player_embedded
I hope someday, he realizes the love of Christ in his life. But there are many people in your neighborhood just like him. I was wondering the following and would like to hear some of your comments.
What do you think about his experience? Do you really live what you believe? How does this challenge you to live differently?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JHS8adO3hM&eurl=http://www.planetwisdom.com/marksblog/2008/12/wow.html&feature=player_embedded
I hope someday, he realizes the love of Christ in his life. But there are many people in your neighborhood just like him. I was wondering the following and would like to hear some of your comments.
What do you think about his experience? Do you really live what you believe? How does this challenge you to live differently?
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Comments submitted by Matthew H.
Life is God's novel, so let Him write it.
Yes actually, I am a know-it-all.
God
Yes actually, I am a know-it-all.
God
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Hope
I thought this would be encouraging to us.
By Titus Benton
Published 12/1/2008
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
The crashing cars will be still and the drunken drivers will be sober. The screaming husbands and the crying wives will be quiet. The innocent children will no longer be abused. Warriors will lay down their weapons. There will be no battle to win and no turf to defend. The hungry will be filled, the poor will be looked after, and the homeless will be warmed by love. They will have dignity.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
Guns will be silenced, not to conceal their fatal fire, but because there is no firing at all. There will be nowhere to aim; no hatred to spill forth. Marriages won't end any more. Families won't be ripped apart by divorce, separation, and selfishness. And we won't ignore the people we live with in favor of television or video games or our own rooms.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
Students will not cut themselves, starve themselves, kill themselves, trap themselves, drug themselves, ignore themselves, or indulge themselves any more. They won't fill their lives with sound and they will no longer fear silence. They won't make fun of each other. They won't hurt each other.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
We won't label ourselves the way we do: poor or rich; Democrat or Republican; black, white, Hispanic, Asian, or "other." We won't look down on one another, talk bad about one another, or be harsh with one another. There won't be road rage or sports rage. We won't create drama to have something to complain about and we won't look for conflict so we have something juicy to talk about.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
Work will not be our god. Sports will not be our god. We will not be our god. They will not be our god. Media will not be our god. Religion will not be our god.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
We will live in harmony with one another. We will laugh together, eat together, and live together. We will share what we have, accept what don't from those who do, and love that we don't have to pretend any more. We will celebrate that there are no more wars to fight, funerals to attend, or losses to mourn. We will learn who we are, be committed to those around us, and be resolved to stick it out during the toughest of times. We will know who we are, be okay with who we are, and celebrate who we are. God will be God.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
We will not be the same because I will not be the same. I will not be the same because I refuse to stay the same. If I stay the same then we will be the same. If we are the same then the world will not change. It will look like to does today.Today is no good.Today is just more of the same.
Bring on tomorrow.
Spread The Word
By Titus Benton
Published 12/1/2008
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
The crashing cars will be still and the drunken drivers will be sober. The screaming husbands and the crying wives will be quiet. The innocent children will no longer be abused. Warriors will lay down their weapons. There will be no battle to win and no turf to defend. The hungry will be filled, the poor will be looked after, and the homeless will be warmed by love. They will have dignity.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
Guns will be silenced, not to conceal their fatal fire, but because there is no firing at all. There will be nowhere to aim; no hatred to spill forth. Marriages won't end any more. Families won't be ripped apart by divorce, separation, and selfishness. And we won't ignore the people we live with in favor of television or video games or our own rooms.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
Students will not cut themselves, starve themselves, kill themselves, trap themselves, drug themselves, ignore themselves, or indulge themselves any more. They won't fill their lives with sound and they will no longer fear silence. They won't make fun of each other. They won't hurt each other.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
We won't label ourselves the way we do: poor or rich; Democrat or Republican; black, white, Hispanic, Asian, or "other." We won't look down on one another, talk bad about one another, or be harsh with one another. There won't be road rage or sports rage. We won't create drama to have something to complain about and we won't look for conflict so we have something juicy to talk about.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
Work will not be our god. Sports will not be our god. We will not be our god. They will not be our god. Media will not be our god. Religion will not be our god.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
We will live in harmony with one another. We will laugh together, eat together, and live together. We will share what we have, accept what don't from those who do, and love that we don't have to pretend any more. We will celebrate that there are no more wars to fight, funerals to attend, or losses to mourn. We will learn who we are, be committed to those around us, and be resolved to stick it out during the toughest of times. We will know who we are, be okay with who we are, and celebrate who we are. God will be God.
One of these days, the world will look much different than it does today. It will not be the same because we will not be the same.
We will not be the same because I will not be the same. I will not be the same because I refuse to stay the same. If I stay the same then we will be the same. If we are the same then the world will not change. It will look like to does today.Today is no good.Today is just more of the same.
Bring on tomorrow.
Spread The Word
Monday, December 8, 2008
God Used My Painful Past
Hey All,
I just want to past this on, I think you might like to se how God can work.
As I walked into the youth room, I immediately noticed a new guy. He definitely looked different than any of my guy friends. He wore black eyeliner with streaks of black running vertically down each cheek. His hair and clothes told me he'd probably call himself emo. Since I like to make new people feel welcome, I went over and introduced myself.
He told me his name was Ryan*. He was really pretty easy to talk to. Before long, we were chatting about music. I hadn't heard of his favorite bands, but I told him about Hawk Nelson and Stellar Kart, two bands I like.
He seemed to enjoy youth group that night and continued coming back, although at times he seemed kind of distant. As we spent time together on Sunday nights, he slowly opened up about his struggles with cutting and suicidal thoughts. I understood. I used to struggle with both problems.
One night our youth pastor, Tad, used the Hawk Nelson song "Zero" to discuss the topic of suicide. The band wrote it after a friend of theirs took his life. We listened as the song played:
Your life dreams are shattered/You've gone away/We've cried here for hours, and the hours turn to days/We know you regret this, leaving us here/With portraits and memories that we've held so dear.
The lyrics reminded me of the emotions I once felt. The song affected Ryan, too. He even pulled Tad aside during one of our games to talk. Tad asked me to join the conversation.
Here's what I said to Ryan: "A couple of years ago, I was depressed and thought no one cared about me. One night I began cutting, and it became an addiction. I would do it when anything bad would happen. I'd think to myself when I cut, You don't deserve to live. Everyone would be better off without you.
You're the one who causes all the problems in your family."
Ryan looked straight in my eyes, which was unusual for him, as I continued to talk.
"Then I met Tad, who asked me some unusual questions. One was: 'If you died tonight, do you know where you would go?' Ryan, do you know how you would answer that question?"
"I hope heaven," Ryan answered softly.
"But if you had to give God a reason why he should let you in heaven, what would you say?" I asked.
"That I tried to live a good life," he said.
I told Ryan that this was also what I had thought, but I wasn't sure my good works would really get me into heaven.
Ryan's eyes looked watery and really sad.
"Tad told me that Jesus died for our sins so we could have a relationship with God," I explained. "By believing Jesus is God's Son and accepting him as my Savior and Lord, which means giving him control of my life, I'd get to spend eternity in heaven. Living a good life will never get me there—it's only through Jesus Christ."
Ryan thought for a minute and then simply said, "Wow."
"Ryan, when I accepted Christ my problems didn't disappear," I stressed, "but I found a strength I never had before. Christ helps me with my struggles and has even removed some of them completely." He remained quiet for a while. It seemed like we sat there forever, but I was certain Ryan was just taking in everything he'd just heard.
Finally, he said, "I'm ready."
I was amazed he was ready to make a commitment to Christ. After all, he'd only attended youth group a few weeks.
Tad and I led Ryan in prayer and he accepted Christ that night. While earlier he'd seemed so sad, he suddenly couldn't stop smiling.
It's been months since that night and Ryan continues to grow in his faith. He now plays guitar with our youth band and has become a big fan of the Christian rock band Skillet. I can tell he's more confident. He says he no longer cuts or thinks about suicide.
One night after my youth group attended a Skillet concert, Ryan came up to me to say goodbye before heading home. He simply said, "Thank you for being my friend. It means a lot to me."
I am thankful God used my story and struggles to bring Ryan to Christ. I'm excited we'll be in heaven together.
Molly, a sophomore, received evangelism training from Dare 2 Share, an organization dedicated to helping Christian students witness to their friends.
*Names have been changed.Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Ignite Your Faith magazine.
I just want to past this on, I think you might like to se how God can work.
As I walked into the youth room, I immediately noticed a new guy. He definitely looked different than any of my guy friends. He wore black eyeliner with streaks of black running vertically down each cheek. His hair and clothes told me he'd probably call himself emo. Since I like to make new people feel welcome, I went over and introduced myself.
He told me his name was Ryan*. He was really pretty easy to talk to. Before long, we were chatting about music. I hadn't heard of his favorite bands, but I told him about Hawk Nelson and Stellar Kart, two bands I like.
He seemed to enjoy youth group that night and continued coming back, although at times he seemed kind of distant. As we spent time together on Sunday nights, he slowly opened up about his struggles with cutting and suicidal thoughts. I understood. I used to struggle with both problems.
One night our youth pastor, Tad, used the Hawk Nelson song "Zero" to discuss the topic of suicide. The band wrote it after a friend of theirs took his life. We listened as the song played:
Your life dreams are shattered/You've gone away/We've cried here for hours, and the hours turn to days/We know you regret this, leaving us here/With portraits and memories that we've held so dear.
The lyrics reminded me of the emotions I once felt. The song affected Ryan, too. He even pulled Tad aside during one of our games to talk. Tad asked me to join the conversation.
Here's what I said to Ryan: "A couple of years ago, I was depressed and thought no one cared about me. One night I began cutting, and it became an addiction. I would do it when anything bad would happen. I'd think to myself when I cut, You don't deserve to live. Everyone would be better off without you.
You're the one who causes all the problems in your family."
Ryan looked straight in my eyes, which was unusual for him, as I continued to talk.
"Then I met Tad, who asked me some unusual questions. One was: 'If you died tonight, do you know where you would go?' Ryan, do you know how you would answer that question?"
"I hope heaven," Ryan answered softly.
"But if you had to give God a reason why he should let you in heaven, what would you say?" I asked.
"That I tried to live a good life," he said.
I told Ryan that this was also what I had thought, but I wasn't sure my good works would really get me into heaven.
Ryan's eyes looked watery and really sad.
"Tad told me that Jesus died for our sins so we could have a relationship with God," I explained. "By believing Jesus is God's Son and accepting him as my Savior and Lord, which means giving him control of my life, I'd get to spend eternity in heaven. Living a good life will never get me there—it's only through Jesus Christ."
Ryan thought for a minute and then simply said, "Wow."
"Ryan, when I accepted Christ my problems didn't disappear," I stressed, "but I found a strength I never had before. Christ helps me with my struggles and has even removed some of them completely." He remained quiet for a while. It seemed like we sat there forever, but I was certain Ryan was just taking in everything he'd just heard.
Finally, he said, "I'm ready."
I was amazed he was ready to make a commitment to Christ. After all, he'd only attended youth group a few weeks.
Tad and I led Ryan in prayer and he accepted Christ that night. While earlier he'd seemed so sad, he suddenly couldn't stop smiling.
It's been months since that night and Ryan continues to grow in his faith. He now plays guitar with our youth band and has become a big fan of the Christian rock band Skillet. I can tell he's more confident. He says he no longer cuts or thinks about suicide.
One night after my youth group attended a Skillet concert, Ryan came up to me to say goodbye before heading home. He simply said, "Thank you for being my friend. It means a lot to me."
I am thankful God used my story and struggles to bring Ryan to Christ. I'm excited we'll be in heaven together.
Molly, a sophomore, received evangelism training from Dare 2 Share, an organization dedicated to helping Christian students witness to their friends.
*Names have been changed.Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Ignite Your Faith magazine.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
A word from George
While I was looking out the window on the airplane, God reaveled something to me that I want to share with you all:
In the airplane above the clouds I saw the Sun Shinning on the clouds and they looked so pure white, and clean. But also there was times when the son wasn't shinning on the clouds and they looked dingy, dirty, and grey looking.
And the anaolgy that God revealed to me is this:
When we allow the Son (Jesus) to shine (Live in us) down on us, we look pure and clean. But when we do not allow the Son (Jesus) to shine on us, we look dingy, dirty, and unpure.
May we allow God to work in us that others will see the Son shinning on us.
God Bless,
I love being your Youth Pastor
In the airplane above the clouds I saw the Sun Shinning on the clouds and they looked so pure white, and clean. But also there was times when the son wasn't shinning on the clouds and they looked dingy, dirty, and grey looking.
And the anaolgy that God revealed to me is this:
When we allow the Son (Jesus) to shine (Live in us) down on us, we look pure and clean. But when we do not allow the Son (Jesus) to shine on us, we look dingy, dirty, and unpure.
May we allow God to work in us that others will see the Son shinning on us.
God Bless,
I love being your Youth Pastor
A not so funny Joke....J/K
Kaitlynn trying to be funny....
Q:
Why did the box of donuts cross the road?
A:
To get to FBC of Edgewater Youth Group (before they ate George.) =D jk
Q:
Why did the box of donuts cross the road?
A:
To get to FBC of Edgewater Youth Group (before they ate George.) =D jk
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Stranger than Fiction
Oregon Man Shot by Dog During Hunting Trip
Henry Marcum has nothing but kind words for the dog that shot his 23-year-old son. Matthew Marcum was standing in Tillamook Bay at the start of duck-hunting trip when his dog jumped into the boat, setting off a 12-gauge shotgun. The blast blew a hole in the aluminum boat before hitting Marcum, who is recovering from injuries to his legs and buttocks. Henry says he's not angry with the dog, and neither is his son. He adds that the Labrador, Drake, is a good dog and the shooting is "just one of those things."
Henry Marcum has nothing but kind words for the dog that shot his 23-year-old son. Matthew Marcum was standing in Tillamook Bay at the start of duck-hunting trip when his dog jumped into the boat, setting off a 12-gauge shotgun. The blast blew a hole in the aluminum boat before hitting Marcum, who is recovering from injuries to his legs and buttocks. Henry says he's not angry with the dog, and neither is his son. He adds that the Labrador, Drake, is a good dog and the shooting is "just one of those things."
More Riddles from Matthew
What does a chicken nd a band have in commen?
They both have drum sticks.
What did the autumn leaf say to the other autumn leaf?
I'm falling for you.
What washes up on really small beaches?
Microwaves
What is in the middle of Paris?
The letter "R"
Which city do people who talk a lot live?
Babylon
What did the crop say to the farmer?
Why are you always picking on me.
They both have drum sticks.
What did the autumn leaf say to the other autumn leaf?
I'm falling for you.
What washes up on really small beaches?
Microwaves
What is in the middle of Paris?
The letter "R"
Which city do people who talk a lot live?
Babylon
What did the crop say to the farmer?
Why are you always picking on me.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Top 15 Reasons to Be Thankful on Thanksgiving
During Thanksgiving, we're always asked what we're thankful for. So in honor of turkey day, I found this list of 15 reasons to be thankful. If you have anything ya wanna add to the list, be sure to let me know!
I am thankful …
15. That someone else kills the turkey and removes those nasty gizzard things from their bodies.
14. That peanut butter-and-jelly sandwiches are always a safe stand-by when Uncle Dave's trying to cook the turkey in the microwave.
13. For conversation about a bunch of distant relatives you don't know, but you don't care 'cuz the food's so good.
12. For a family that loves you, even if Aunt Dorothy can't stop pinching your cheeks and exclaiming, "My how you've grown!"
11. That Thanksgiving is the one time you can eat for 8 hours straight, feel like ya gotta be rolled away from the table, but you keep right on eating.
10. For the crazy relatives who make you laugh right after you put mashed potatoes in your mouth just so they can watch you blow them out your nose.
9. For getting two days of school off—even though your teachers gave you so much homework, you'll never get it done by New Year's.
8. That this is the one time you don't have to sit next to your little brother who talks with his mouth full—he'll sit across from you instead.
7. For that one food dish you never quite know what it is.
6. For finally graduating from the "kids' table" to the "adults' table." (I graduated a few years ago.)
5. That there's always a football game to snooze through, despite the fact you're sharing a love seat with five of your relatives.
4. For hearing Grandpa pray.
3. That black olives, a.k.a. finger puppets, can add entertainment to any meal.
2. For washing your dishes—and those of 14 other relatives.
And the number 1 reason to be thankful on Thanksgiving …
1. That God loves us so much, he gave us a family to love, a turkey to eat, and a Son to save our souls.
I am thankful …
15. That someone else kills the turkey and removes those nasty gizzard things from their bodies.
14. That peanut butter-and-jelly sandwiches are always a safe stand-by when Uncle Dave's trying to cook the turkey in the microwave.
13. For conversation about a bunch of distant relatives you don't know, but you don't care 'cuz the food's so good.
12. For a family that loves you, even if Aunt Dorothy can't stop pinching your cheeks and exclaiming, "My how you've grown!"
11. That Thanksgiving is the one time you can eat for 8 hours straight, feel like ya gotta be rolled away from the table, but you keep right on eating.
10. For the crazy relatives who make you laugh right after you put mashed potatoes in your mouth just so they can watch you blow them out your nose.
9. For getting two days of school off—even though your teachers gave you so much homework, you'll never get it done by New Year's.
8. That this is the one time you don't have to sit next to your little brother who talks with his mouth full—he'll sit across from you instead.
7. For that one food dish you never quite know what it is.
6. For finally graduating from the "kids' table" to the "adults' table." (I graduated a few years ago.)
5. That there's always a football game to snooze through, despite the fact you're sharing a love seat with five of your relatives.
4. For hearing Grandpa pray.
3. That black olives, a.k.a. finger puppets, can add entertainment to any meal.
2. For washing your dishes—and those of 14 other relatives.
And the number 1 reason to be thankful on Thanksgiving …
1. That God loves us so much, he gave us a family to love, a turkey to eat, and a Son to save our souls.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Jokes given to me by Kaitlynn Bagwell
Mom:What did you do at school today?
Ethan: We did a guessing game.
Mom: I thought you were having a math exam?
Ethan: Thats right....
Prisilla: What sits at the bottom of the ocean and shakes?
Rufus: You've got me.
Prisilla: A nervous reck.
Prisilla: What do you get if you cross a cocker-spaniel, a poodle and a rooster?
Rufus: It's unknown to me.
Prisilla: A Cockapoodledoo
Teacher: I've had to punish you every day this week. What have you got to say?
Student: Boy, am I glad it's Friday.
Teacher: Why are you crawling into class?
Student: Because the class has already started and you said " Don't anyone dare walk into my class late."
Q. I have six eyes, two mouths, and three ears, what am I?
A. Ugly.
Jacob: Did you here about the man who got arressted for stealing a pig?
Lacey: How did they catch him?
Jacob: The pig squealed.
Codey: I'm aching from arthritis.
Kara: How do you do? I'm Kara from Hume, Lake California
Ethan: We did a guessing game.
Mom: I thought you were having a math exam?
Ethan: Thats right....
Prisilla: What sits at the bottom of the ocean and shakes?
Rufus: You've got me.
Prisilla: A nervous reck.
Prisilla: What do you get if you cross a cocker-spaniel, a poodle and a rooster?
Rufus: It's unknown to me.
Prisilla: A Cockapoodledoo
Teacher: I've had to punish you every day this week. What have you got to say?
Student: Boy, am I glad it's Friday.
Teacher: Why are you crawling into class?
Student: Because the class has already started and you said " Don't anyone dare walk into my class late."
Q. I have six eyes, two mouths, and three ears, what am I?
A. Ugly.
Jacob: Did you here about the man who got arressted for stealing a pig?
Lacey: How did they catch him?
Jacob: The pig squealed.
Codey: I'm aching from arthritis.
Kara: How do you do? I'm Kara from Hume, Lake California
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Always the Third Wheel
Q. I seem to frequently hang with people who are better friends with each other than with me—or they're dating. It makes me hesitant to do things with anyone unless it's just two of us. Should I let this bother me?
A. Being the third wheel can be tough. Because it bothers you, my advice is to intentionally avoid these kinds of situations as much as possible. It's going to happen now and then—and that's fine—but here's how you can keep them from happening too often: When invited to hang out with two others, ask if your friend would mind if you called another friend to join you. Also, make it a point to spend time with people one-on-one so you can bond with them and feel like you're focused on each other.
A high school girl once told me she was almost always home watching TV alone. I asked her how often she initiated times to hang out with people. She admitted she usually waited for others to call her. I think that was the problem.
I encouraged her to make a list of people she would like to hang out with, and take the initiative to call them. She did. Later, she told me she wasn't spending very much time at home alone when she wanted to be out with friends. She was now setting her social calendar. Maybe you could follow her example.
I have one other suggestion: Consider joining a small group. Most youth groups have them. Along with being a great way to grow in your faith, a small group gives you opportunities to develop some close friendships in a group bigger than three.
Jim is an author, longtime youth worker and founder of HomeWord, a group seeking to honor God through strong families.
A. Being the third wheel can be tough. Because it bothers you, my advice is to intentionally avoid these kinds of situations as much as possible. It's going to happen now and then—and that's fine—but here's how you can keep them from happening too often: When invited to hang out with two others, ask if your friend would mind if you called another friend to join you. Also, make it a point to spend time with people one-on-one so you can bond with them and feel like you're focused on each other.
A high school girl once told me she was almost always home watching TV alone. I asked her how often she initiated times to hang out with people. She admitted she usually waited for others to call her. I think that was the problem.
I encouraged her to make a list of people she would like to hang out with, and take the initiative to call them. She did. Later, she told me she wasn't spending very much time at home alone when she wanted to be out with friends. She was now setting her social calendar. Maybe you could follow her example.
I have one other suggestion: Consider joining a small group. Most youth groups have them. Along with being a great way to grow in your faith, a small group gives you opportunities to develop some close friendships in a group bigger than three.
Jim is an author, longtime youth worker and founder of HomeWord, a group seeking to honor God through strong families.
Monday, November 17, 2008
More Riddles from matthew Hemphill
What side of the mug should you put the handle on?
The outside
Why did the skelton cross the road?
To get to the body shop.
Why is it so hot in a stadium after a football game?
Because all the fans left.
Why did the elephant cross the road?
Because it was the chicken's day off.
The outside
Why did the skelton cross the road?
To get to the body shop.
Why is it so hot in a stadium after a football game?
Because all the fans left.
Why did the elephant cross the road?
Because it was the chicken's day off.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Jokes from Matthew Hemphill
What are two things you can never eat for breakfast?
Lunch and Dinner
What starts with a "T" is full of "T's" and ends with "T"?
A tea pot
What do you call cow with a twitch?
Beef Jerky
What is a parasite?
Something you see in Paris
Lunch and Dinner
What starts with a "T" is full of "T's" and ends with "T"?
A tea pot
What do you call cow with a twitch?
Beef Jerky
What is a parasite?
Something you see in Paris
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Prayer Request
Gabi wanted me to put these on here for her so that we could be praying for these things:
grandpa
me
chris (my brother)
olivia
If anybody has any prayer request that you want me to add, just email me.
KTF
George
grandpa
me
chris (my brother)
olivia
If anybody has any prayer request that you want me to add, just email me.
KTF
George
Monday, October 20, 2008
Give It A Rest
Give It a Rest What it means to "keep the Sabbath holy."By Jason Lawrenz
"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." —Exodus 2:8, NIV
An average day during my junior year in high school went something like this: Wake up, eight hours of school, four hours of practice, quick dinner, four hours of homework, hang out with friends (if I'm lucky), sleep, repeat.
Sound like your life? To keep from freaking out or getting sick, we gotta find time to rest. God thinks rest is so important he wrote it into the fourth commandment: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy" (Exodus 20:8, NIV).
A "Sabbath" is a time of rest. The words, "Remember the Sabbath day," point us back to the first Sabbath in history when, after he created everything in six days, God rested on the seventh day (see Genesis 1-2).
Now, let's be realistic: God's strength is unlimited. He created everything just by speaking. He's present everywhere. He's always available to talk to, and he doesn't get tired or worn out. So, why did God rest?
The Bible says that God "blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating he had done" (Genesis 2:3, NIV). I think God set an example for us when he rested, and we can see that example in a very important word: holy. This verse says that God made his day of rest holy. In the fourth commandment, we are told to keep the Sabbath holy. God wants us to follow his example. He wants us to take time to rest, and he wants that rest time to be holy.
Whenever the word holy appears in the Bible, it means set apart just for God. In other words, totally devoted to God. A holy Sabbath, then, isn't just any old time of rest, and it's not just rest for our physical bodies. God didn't give us the fourth commandment as encouragement to zone out while watching TV or spend an entire weekend playing Rock Band. Doing those things might help us recharge our batteries physically, but a Sabbath is more than a time of physical rest. It's also a time of spiritual rest—rest devoted totally to God.
Most of us know that nonstop busyness can wear us down and cause major physical problems or illnesses. What we so easily forget is that our spiritual lives work that way, too. As Christians, we're called to represent Christ wherever we go and to share his good news through our words and actions. That's not an easy thing to do, and if we're trying to live up to that calling every single day, it can get really tiring! If we are pouring out of our faith all the time, we need to eventually get filled back up. Taking a Sabbath and resting with God can revive us spiritually with the energy and encouragement we need to live each day as messengers of the good news. Even Jesus, our Lord and Savior, repeatedly devoted time to rest with God, far away from the busyness of his life. (See Matthew 14:22-24; Mark 1:35.)
As we try to keep a Sabbath, however, we need to remember something: It's not about just keeping another rule. When the Pharisees confronted Jesus about breaking the Sabbath, he made one thing clear: "The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27, NLT).
So how can the Sabbath best meet our needs? A great starting point is going to church and youth group. Worshiping God with other believers and sharing our lives with them is an excellent way to find rest for our spiritual lives. The key to taking a Sabbath is finding a way to be with God that doesn't include or feel like work. Along with participating in a church worship service, keeping the Sabbath could mean taking more time than usual to read your Bible, journaling your prayers to God, listening to Christian music, or enjoying God's creation on a walk outdoors. Find your own unique way to be with him. Set aside time every week for it. Now you've started keeping the Sabbath holy.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NIV). By obeying the fourth commandment, we can take Jesus up on his offer and find rest for our bodies and our souls. Then, when we reenter our crazy world, we'll have the strength to share the Gospel with others who also need the rest Jesus offers.
"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." —Exodus 2:8, NIV
An average day during my junior year in high school went something like this: Wake up, eight hours of school, four hours of practice, quick dinner, four hours of homework, hang out with friends (if I'm lucky), sleep, repeat.
Sound like your life? To keep from freaking out or getting sick, we gotta find time to rest. God thinks rest is so important he wrote it into the fourth commandment: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy" (Exodus 20:8, NIV).
A "Sabbath" is a time of rest. The words, "Remember the Sabbath day," point us back to the first Sabbath in history when, after he created everything in six days, God rested on the seventh day (see Genesis 1-2).
Now, let's be realistic: God's strength is unlimited. He created everything just by speaking. He's present everywhere. He's always available to talk to, and he doesn't get tired or worn out. So, why did God rest?
The Bible says that God "blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating he had done" (Genesis 2:3, NIV). I think God set an example for us when he rested, and we can see that example in a very important word: holy. This verse says that God made his day of rest holy. In the fourth commandment, we are told to keep the Sabbath holy. God wants us to follow his example. He wants us to take time to rest, and he wants that rest time to be holy.
Whenever the word holy appears in the Bible, it means set apart just for God. In other words, totally devoted to God. A holy Sabbath, then, isn't just any old time of rest, and it's not just rest for our physical bodies. God didn't give us the fourth commandment as encouragement to zone out while watching TV or spend an entire weekend playing Rock Band. Doing those things might help us recharge our batteries physically, but a Sabbath is more than a time of physical rest. It's also a time of spiritual rest—rest devoted totally to God.
Most of us know that nonstop busyness can wear us down and cause major physical problems or illnesses. What we so easily forget is that our spiritual lives work that way, too. As Christians, we're called to represent Christ wherever we go and to share his good news through our words and actions. That's not an easy thing to do, and if we're trying to live up to that calling every single day, it can get really tiring! If we are pouring out of our faith all the time, we need to eventually get filled back up. Taking a Sabbath and resting with God can revive us spiritually with the energy and encouragement we need to live each day as messengers of the good news. Even Jesus, our Lord and Savior, repeatedly devoted time to rest with God, far away from the busyness of his life. (See Matthew 14:22-24; Mark 1:35.)
As we try to keep a Sabbath, however, we need to remember something: It's not about just keeping another rule. When the Pharisees confronted Jesus about breaking the Sabbath, he made one thing clear: "The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27, NLT).
So how can the Sabbath best meet our needs? A great starting point is going to church and youth group. Worshiping God with other believers and sharing our lives with them is an excellent way to find rest for our spiritual lives. The key to taking a Sabbath is finding a way to be with God that doesn't include or feel like work. Along with participating in a church worship service, keeping the Sabbath could mean taking more time than usual to read your Bible, journaling your prayers to God, listening to Christian music, or enjoying God's creation on a walk outdoors. Find your own unique way to be with him. Set aside time every week for it. Now you've started keeping the Sabbath holy.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NIV). By obeying the fourth commandment, we can take Jesus up on his offer and find rest for our bodies and our souls. Then, when we reenter our crazy world, we'll have the strength to share the Gospel with others who also need the rest Jesus offers.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The Resume Of Jesus Christ
The Resume of Jesus Christ
Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus
Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.
Qualifications
· I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
· I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
· I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
· I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
· The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)
Occupational Background
· I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49).
· I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
· My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)
Skills Work Experiences
· Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
· I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
· Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)
Educational Background
· I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
· In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
· My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a lamp unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
· I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).
Major Accomplishments
· I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
· I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
· I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
· I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
· There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.
References
· Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance.
In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).
Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus
Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.
Qualifications
· I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
· I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
· I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
· I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
· The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)
Occupational Background
· I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49).
· I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
· My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)
Skills Work Experiences
· Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
· I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
· Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)
Educational Background
· I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
· In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
· My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a lamp unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
· I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).
Major Accomplishments
· I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
· I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
· I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
· I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
· There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.
References
· Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance.
In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).
Stranger Than Fiction
BERLIN (Reuters) - Thieves who stole 300 kg (660 lbs) of hazelnuts in Germany have been urgently warned not to eat them.
Hamburg police spokesman Holger Vehren said the sacks containing the nuts were full of poisonous hydrogen phosphate gas, used to extend their shelf life.
The nuts must first be treated to make them safe for consumption.
"We're looking for the perpetrators because they could face a very serious health risk if they eat these hazelnuts," he said. "The gas is even lethal if they inhale it."
(Reporting by Josie Cox, editing by Mark Trevelyan
Hamburg police spokesman Holger Vehren said the sacks containing the nuts were full of poisonous hydrogen phosphate gas, used to extend their shelf life.
The nuts must first be treated to make them safe for consumption.
"We're looking for the perpetrators because they could face a very serious health risk if they eat these hazelnuts," he said. "The gas is even lethal if they inhale it."
(Reporting by Josie Cox, editing by Mark Trevelyan
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Stranger than Fiction
IOWA CITY, Iowa — Iowa City police say a man who was driving drunk tried to bribe a police officer — with a sandwich.
Police say 25-year-old Mark Booth of Iowa City, was charged with drunken driving early Sunday morning.
Police say he was pulled over after an officer saw him driving with his headlights off.
Police say that Booth was riding with a police officer in a squad car when he offered the officer free sub sandwiches if he could go home.
The officer declined.
Police say 25-year-old Mark Booth of Iowa City, was charged with drunken driving early Sunday morning.
Police say he was pulled over after an officer saw him driving with his headlights off.
Police say that Booth was riding with a police officer in a squad car when he offered the officer free sub sandwiches if he could go home.
The officer declined.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A New Day
By Amy Nickerson
Beep
Beep
Beep......
The alarm clock rings
As I roll over
Sleepily I rise
And open my blinds
The sunshine streams in
Making me squint
Rubbing away sleep
While i stretch and yawn
Birds chirp
The blue sky beckons
For a brief minute
I gaze up
Remembering Him
Endless opportunities
Calling my name
... This is the day!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Having a Bad Day?
Ask yourself:
1. What do I feel guilty about?
2. What am I worried about?
3. Who am I, really?
Remember:
1. Christ's grace erases guilt.
2. Christ's oversight removes fear.
3 Christ's direction removes confusion.
1. What do I feel guilty about?
2. What am I worried about?
3. Who am I, really?
Remember:
1. Christ's grace erases guilt.
2. Christ's oversight removes fear.
3 Christ's direction removes confusion.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Intresting Quotes
"Churchgoers are like coals in a fire. When they cling together, they keep the flame aglow; when they seperate,they die out."
Billy Graham
And here is one that was given to me by a Student to add to the blog:
Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~Emerson
Billy Graham
And here is one that was given to me by a Student to add to the blog:
Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~Emerson
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The Worst (and Best) Year of My Life
I was doomed to be the class outcast.by Jessica Dagen
People going through tough times often wonder, Why is God letting me go through this? Is there a point? That was me in seventh grade. At the time, I thought it was the worst year of my life. Anybody who knows me has heard me say that. But now I know better.
Without that year, I would not be who I am today.
I am a missionary kid (or MK). I have lived in the Czech Republic, the second most atheistic nation in the world, since I was 4-years-old. I'm naturally shy so it's tough for me to make friends. But to make matters worse, I was growing up in a foreign country, where I didn't fully know the language and where every kid I met thought Christianity was the dumbest thing on the planet. Let's just say I felt like there was no hope for a close friend.
And then it all got worse. We moved to California for a year before returning to the Czech Republic. I had no idea what living in America was like, and now I had to attend seventh grade there. Sure, I'd been to America once during our missionary service. But it was for four months. Now, I was going to go to school there. I had no idea what Abercrombie was, who Rihanna was, or even how to relate to American kids.
I knew from the very first day at school that things were very different from the Czech schools. People talked differently, dressed differently, acted differently, and even thought differently. I did not fit in, and I didn't know how to fix that. I was doomed to be the class outcast, the weirdo of seventh grade. And I was. The many insults that I received hurt deeply.
I had been taught all my life about God and Christianity. But before my seventh grade year, God was kinda just there—not really doing anything. He was like wallpaper. But now, I was broken. I was spiritually hungry and thirsty.I thought that if God couldn't help me, no one could.
One day, I opened my Bible and Psalm 31 stared back at me: "For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life. But I trust in you, O Lord. … In the shelter of your presence you hide [those who fear you]; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues. … You heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help" (NIV).
I knew it was no coincidence my Bible fell open to this psalm.
I devoured the passage and literally felt a hunger for more. Through his Word, God showed me that I was not alone, and that I just had to trust in him to make the best of it. When I gave him my whole heart, my life opened up. He gave me joy for each new day. He helped me find a few friends around the school and taught me how to let him be my Best Friend. He gave me many opportunities to live out the instruction to turn the other cheek. Life was still very hard. I still cried myself to sleep a lot. Some of what the kids at school said still wounded me badly. But, still, things were different.
I knew that God had a plan, that he had a reason for all the pain and strife I was going through. I didn't know what he was planning, but who am I to argue with the God of the Universe? I couldn't see it then, but as I look back now, God has revealed how he used me that year. For instance, there were several students in my class who came from a different country or whom nobody liked. I realize that, with my experience with living in a different culture and being the social outcast, I was the ideal person to reach out and relate to them.
I noticed lessons of that year when we moved back to Czech. I began eighth grade in yet another new school and I had to make new friends all over again. In America, I'd learned how to stand up for myself, how to make a good yet truthful impression, how to laugh at my mistakes, and how to overcome most of my shyness.
Needless to say, I had a very enjoyable eighth grade year. Since then, too, my life has been much more rewarding. With less shyness, I have been able to act in my school's plays and participate in more group activities. God has blessed me with close friends who encourage and strengthen me. He has shown me how to be a better friend.
Most importantly, he used that year to draw me closer to him. I could have never imagined this relationship with him two years ago. God surely used the bad for good. James says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3, NIV).
Jessica is currently attending high school in the Czech Republic.
Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Ignite Your Faith magazine.
People going through tough times often wonder, Why is God letting me go through this? Is there a point? That was me in seventh grade. At the time, I thought it was the worst year of my life. Anybody who knows me has heard me say that. But now I know better.
Without that year, I would not be who I am today.
I am a missionary kid (or MK). I have lived in the Czech Republic, the second most atheistic nation in the world, since I was 4-years-old. I'm naturally shy so it's tough for me to make friends. But to make matters worse, I was growing up in a foreign country, where I didn't fully know the language and where every kid I met thought Christianity was the dumbest thing on the planet. Let's just say I felt like there was no hope for a close friend.
And then it all got worse. We moved to California for a year before returning to the Czech Republic. I had no idea what living in America was like, and now I had to attend seventh grade there. Sure, I'd been to America once during our missionary service. But it was for four months. Now, I was going to go to school there. I had no idea what Abercrombie was, who Rihanna was, or even how to relate to American kids.
I knew from the very first day at school that things were very different from the Czech schools. People talked differently, dressed differently, acted differently, and even thought differently. I did not fit in, and I didn't know how to fix that. I was doomed to be the class outcast, the weirdo of seventh grade. And I was. The many insults that I received hurt deeply.
I had been taught all my life about God and Christianity. But before my seventh grade year, God was kinda just there—not really doing anything. He was like wallpaper. But now, I was broken. I was spiritually hungry and thirsty.I thought that if God couldn't help me, no one could.
One day, I opened my Bible and Psalm 31 stared back at me: "For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life. But I trust in you, O Lord. … In the shelter of your presence you hide [those who fear you]; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues. … You heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help" (NIV).
I knew it was no coincidence my Bible fell open to this psalm.
I devoured the passage and literally felt a hunger for more. Through his Word, God showed me that I was not alone, and that I just had to trust in him to make the best of it. When I gave him my whole heart, my life opened up. He gave me joy for each new day. He helped me find a few friends around the school and taught me how to let him be my Best Friend. He gave me many opportunities to live out the instruction to turn the other cheek. Life was still very hard. I still cried myself to sleep a lot. Some of what the kids at school said still wounded me badly. But, still, things were different.
I knew that God had a plan, that he had a reason for all the pain and strife I was going through. I didn't know what he was planning, but who am I to argue with the God of the Universe? I couldn't see it then, but as I look back now, God has revealed how he used me that year. For instance, there were several students in my class who came from a different country or whom nobody liked. I realize that, with my experience with living in a different culture and being the social outcast, I was the ideal person to reach out and relate to them.
I noticed lessons of that year when we moved back to Czech. I began eighth grade in yet another new school and I had to make new friends all over again. In America, I'd learned how to stand up for myself, how to make a good yet truthful impression, how to laugh at my mistakes, and how to overcome most of my shyness.
Needless to say, I had a very enjoyable eighth grade year. Since then, too, my life has been much more rewarding. With less shyness, I have been able to act in my school's plays and participate in more group activities. God has blessed me with close friends who encourage and strengthen me. He has shown me how to be a better friend.
Most importantly, he used that year to draw me closer to him. I could have never imagined this relationship with him two years ago. God surely used the bad for good. James says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3, NIV).
Jessica is currently attending high school in the Czech Republic.
Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Ignite Your Faith magazine.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
Stranger Than Fiction
ROME (Reuters) - When in Capri, don't wander off the beach in a bikini.
If you go to the sea in Eraclea, near Venice, remember that building sandcastles is forbidden.
And don't even think about mowing your lawn at the weekend in Forte dei Marmi.
Emboldened by a nationwide crackdown on crime and a government decree giving them extra law-and-order powers, Italian mayors have issued a string of often bizarre by-laws to enhance "public decorum."
Public displays of affection in a car can earn you a fine of up to 500 euros ($745) in Eboli, feeding pigeons is off-limits in the centre of Lucca while in Novara groups of more than two people are forbidden from lounging around in parks at night.
Italian newspapers have dubbed this year's holiday season "the summer of bans." But this week one town hall was forced to acknowledge things may have gone too far.
Rodrigo Piccoli, 33, called national radio to protest after he was fined 50 euros for lying down in a park in the northern city of Vicenza to read a book. The mayor has since promised to drop the ban.
If you go to the sea in Eraclea, near Venice, remember that building sandcastles is forbidden.
And don't even think about mowing your lawn at the weekend in Forte dei Marmi.
Emboldened by a nationwide crackdown on crime and a government decree giving them extra law-and-order powers, Italian mayors have issued a string of often bizarre by-laws to enhance "public decorum."
Public displays of affection in a car can earn you a fine of up to 500 euros ($745) in Eboli, feeding pigeons is off-limits in the centre of Lucca while in Novara groups of more than two people are forbidden from lounging around in parks at night.
Italian newspapers have dubbed this year's holiday season "the summer of bans." But this week one town hall was forced to acknowledge things may have gone too far.
Rodrigo Piccoli, 33, called national radio to protest after he was fined 50 euros for lying down in a park in the northern city of Vicenza to read a book. The mayor has since promised to drop the ban.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Student Life
Hey all, were Back!!!!
Just wanted to give you all a little update on what happened at Student Life last week. First of all we had a blast with the activities. There was 10 Students and 2 Adults. We had one re- dedication. There were commitments made that my prayer is that they will honor, not for my sake but because they made them to God. God was working in each of our lives and I saw walls start coming down that have been up for a while. God is AWESOME!!!!. My prayer is that we at least double the amount of students that go next year. Do you want to stop playing around with God? Do you want to see grow closer to Jesus? Then get out of your comfort zone and come next year.
Just wanted to give you all a little update on what happened at Student Life last week. First of all we had a blast with the activities. There was 10 Students and 2 Adults. We had one re- dedication. There were commitments made that my prayer is that they will honor, not for my sake but because they made them to God. God was working in each of our lives and I saw walls start coming down that have been up for a while. God is AWESOME!!!!. My prayer is that we at least double the amount of students that go next year. Do you want to stop playing around with God? Do you want to see grow closer to Jesus? Then get out of your comfort zone and come next year.
Monday, August 18, 2008
More Than a Name
More Than a NameI caught a tiny glimpse of how God must feel when someone misuses
His name.by Jason Lawrenz
"You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God." —Exodus 20:7, NIV
I couldn't keep from grinning as I took my seat. Friday had arrived. My favorite class with my favorite teacher was about to start. And just before class, I found out that I got a lead part in my school's fall musical. It was a great day … until I overheard my name. Andrew*, a classmate two rows behind me, was saying to someone: "That Jason Lawrenz is such a … " As my head turned, Andrew realized I could hear what he was saying and he quickly changed the topic, but the damage had been done. No, he hadn't said much more than my name, but the way he said it was offensive, angry and mean. It hurt a lot. I also worried that he'd done damage to my reputation—all because of the way he'd said my name.
Looking back at that experience, I think I caught a tiny glimpse of how God must feel when someone misuses his name. In fact, God is so concerned with how people use his name that he gave us the third commandment: "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name" (Exodus 20:7, NIV).
Obviously, God takes his name very seriously, and he doesn't want anyone misusing it. So, we should probably ask ourselves, "How do we misuse God's name?" To answer this question, we need to dive into a little history.
Centuries before Moses and the Ten Commandments, God chose Israel to be his messenger to the world. In ancient times, messengers were usually associated with royalty. Kings regularly used messengers to communicate with other nations. When a messenger delivered a message, he would first announce the name of the king who sent him. This official announcement was very important. Once he used the king's name, his message carried the authority and power of the king.
So, if the messenger delivered an inaccurate message, then he had "misused" the king's name because he said something with the king's authority that the king never told him to say. Additionally, the messenger's inaccuracy reflected poorly on the king and caused the king's name to lose some of its power and authority.
As God's messenger, Israel received the third commandment as a charge to use his name faithfully. This meant delivering the right message. God still uses messengers. He has chosen you and me to deliver his message to the world, and our message is the Gospel—the Good News that Jesus came to rescue us from our sins.
Let's bring this back to the commandment. The verse says that we shouldn't misuse God's name. Since we are God's messengers, misusing God's name means acting or speaking in ways that keep others from hearing the gospel message. This includes using God's name as an ugly swear word, but it also includes stuff like having pre-marital sex, drinking, gossiping behind someone's back, spreading lies, or treating others rudely. Doing this stuff doesn't align with the message of God's love, so it keeps our friends and classmates from hearing that message. And worst of all, misusing God's name like this will hurt him just like Andrew hurt me when he spoke my name so offensively.
Being commanded to consistently act and speak in ways that honor the gospel message is a huge challenge. After all, we all mess up. But there is a big encouragement for us: The Bible says that Christians are a "chosen people" (1 Peter 2:9, niv). God has chosen you and me to be his messengers, which means that he believes in us. He believes that we can be effective messengers.
So do you desire to be the King's messenger? If you do, then take a moment and ask God to help you. Ask him to give you the strength you need to honor his name with your words and actions. Then go into the world as a Christian and share the message of God's love. This is how you use his name in the right way. This is how you become a true messenger to a world that needs the true message.
His name.by Jason Lawrenz
"You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God." —Exodus 20:7, NIV
I couldn't keep from grinning as I took my seat. Friday had arrived. My favorite class with my favorite teacher was about to start. And just before class, I found out that I got a lead part in my school's fall musical. It was a great day … until I overheard my name. Andrew*, a classmate two rows behind me, was saying to someone: "That Jason Lawrenz is such a … " As my head turned, Andrew realized I could hear what he was saying and he quickly changed the topic, but the damage had been done. No, he hadn't said much more than my name, but the way he said it was offensive, angry and mean. It hurt a lot. I also worried that he'd done damage to my reputation—all because of the way he'd said my name.
Looking back at that experience, I think I caught a tiny glimpse of how God must feel when someone misuses his name. In fact, God is so concerned with how people use his name that he gave us the third commandment: "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name" (Exodus 20:7, NIV).
Obviously, God takes his name very seriously, and he doesn't want anyone misusing it. So, we should probably ask ourselves, "How do we misuse God's name?" To answer this question, we need to dive into a little history.
Centuries before Moses and the Ten Commandments, God chose Israel to be his messenger to the world. In ancient times, messengers were usually associated with royalty. Kings regularly used messengers to communicate with other nations. When a messenger delivered a message, he would first announce the name of the king who sent him. This official announcement was very important. Once he used the king's name, his message carried the authority and power of the king.
So, if the messenger delivered an inaccurate message, then he had "misused" the king's name because he said something with the king's authority that the king never told him to say. Additionally, the messenger's inaccuracy reflected poorly on the king and caused the king's name to lose some of its power and authority.
As God's messenger, Israel received the third commandment as a charge to use his name faithfully. This meant delivering the right message. God still uses messengers. He has chosen you and me to deliver his message to the world, and our message is the Gospel—the Good News that Jesus came to rescue us from our sins.
Let's bring this back to the commandment. The verse says that we shouldn't misuse God's name. Since we are God's messengers, misusing God's name means acting or speaking in ways that keep others from hearing the gospel message. This includes using God's name as an ugly swear word, but it also includes stuff like having pre-marital sex, drinking, gossiping behind someone's back, spreading lies, or treating others rudely. Doing this stuff doesn't align with the message of God's love, so it keeps our friends and classmates from hearing that message. And worst of all, misusing God's name like this will hurt him just like Andrew hurt me when he spoke my name so offensively.
Being commanded to consistently act and speak in ways that honor the gospel message is a huge challenge. After all, we all mess up. But there is a big encouragement for us: The Bible says that Christians are a "chosen people" (1 Peter 2:9, niv). God has chosen you and me to be his messengers, which means that he believes in us. He believes that we can be effective messengers.
So do you desire to be the King's messenger? If you do, then take a moment and ask God to help you. Ask him to give you the strength you need to honor his name with your words and actions. Then go into the world as a Christian and share the message of God's love. This is how you use his name in the right way. This is how you become a true messenger to a world that needs the true message.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Stranger Than Fiction
Okay, this is just sick....
BEIJING—Canine cuisine is being sent to the doghouse during next month's Beijing Olympic Games.
Dog meat has been struck from the menus of officially designated Olympic restaurants, and Beijing tourism officials are telling other outlets to discourage consumers from ordering dishes made from dogs, the official Xinhua News Agency reported Friday.
Waiters and waitresses should "patiently" suggest other options to diners who order dog, it said, quoting city tourism bureau Vice Director Xiong Yumei.
Dog, known in Chinese as "xiangrou," or "fragrant meat," is eaten by some Chinese for its purported health-giving qualities.
Beijing isn't the first Olympic host to slap a ban on the dish.
South Korea banned dog meat during the 1988 Seoul Olympics by invoking a law prohibiting the sale of "foods deemed unsightly." After the Olympics, the ban was not strictly enforced.
Dog meat is also eaten in some other Asian countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines and Laos.
BEIJING—Canine cuisine is being sent to the doghouse during next month's Beijing Olympic Games.
Dog meat has been struck from the menus of officially designated Olympic restaurants, and Beijing tourism officials are telling other outlets to discourage consumers from ordering dishes made from dogs, the official Xinhua News Agency reported Friday.
Waiters and waitresses should "patiently" suggest other options to diners who order dog, it said, quoting city tourism bureau Vice Director Xiong Yumei.
Dog, known in Chinese as "xiangrou," or "fragrant meat," is eaten by some Chinese for its purported health-giving qualities.
Beijing isn't the first Olympic host to slap a ban on the dish.
South Korea banned dog meat during the 1988 Seoul Olympics by invoking a law prohibiting the sale of "foods deemed unsightly." After the Olympics, the ban was not strictly enforced.
Dog meat is also eaten in some other Asian countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines and Laos.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Stranger Than Fiction
What in the world is going on in this country......hahaha
POTTER VALLEY, Calif. — A Mendocino County woman who was trying to kill mice in her trailer with a gun ended up shooting herself and another person.
The 43-year-old woman pulled out her .44-caliber Magnum revolver after she saw the mice scurrying across the floor of her trailer on Highway 20 in Potter Valley, sheriff's officials said.
But she accidentally dropped the gun, which went off as it struck the floor. The bullet went through the woman's kneecap, bounced off the keys sitting on the belt loop of a 42-year-old man in the trailer and grazed the man's groin before ending up in his coin pocket.
Authorities did not release the shooting victims' names.
The mice escaped the shooting unharmed.
POTTER VALLEY, Calif. — A Mendocino County woman who was trying to kill mice in her trailer with a gun ended up shooting herself and another person.
The 43-year-old woman pulled out her .44-caliber Magnum revolver after she saw the mice scurrying across the floor of her trailer on Highway 20 in Potter Valley, sheriff's officials said.
But she accidentally dropped the gun, which went off as it struck the floor. The bullet went through the woman's kneecap, bounced off the keys sitting on the belt loop of a 42-year-old man in the trailer and grazed the man's groin before ending up in his coin pocket.
Authorities did not release the shooting victims' names.
The mice escaped the shooting unharmed.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Joke of the Day
My Dad Is Better Than Your Dad
Three boys are in the school yard bragging about their fathers.
The first boy says, "My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a poem, they give him $50." The second boy says, "That's nothing. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him $100."
The third boy says, "I got you both beat. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon...and it takes eight people to collect all the money!"
Three boys are in the school yard bragging about their fathers.
The first boy says, "My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a poem, they give him $50." The second boy says, "That's nothing. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him $100."
The third boy says, "I got you both beat. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon...and it takes eight people to collect all the money!"
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Stranger than Fiction
Hello All, I am back from vacation and ready to get busy....
SYDNEY (Reuters) - A man who put his life up for auction on eBay found it wasn't worth quite as much as he thought when he settled for around A$100,000 less than his target price.
Ian Usher, 44, held the seven-day auction of all his belongings, including his three-bedroom home in the west Australian city of Perth and a trial for his job at a rug store, after the break-up of his five-year marriage.
Bids had reached as high as A$2.2 million, only for Usher to discover there had been a glitch on eBay's system which allowed the participation of non-registered bidders who had put in bogus offers.
In the end, the winning bidder agreed to pay A$399,300 ($380,286) for all of Usher's worldly goods, which also include his friends, a motorcycle and a jetski. According to the eBay website, the mystery buyer, whose user name is "mslmcc," is in Australia and has a 100 percent feedback score.
Usher, who gave regular updates on the auction on his Web site www.alife4sale.com, now plans to travel in search of a new life.
He's not the first person to put his life on the block.
American John Freyer started All My Life For Sale (www.allmylifeforsale.com) in 2001 and sold everything he owned on eBay, later visiting the people who bought his things.
Adam Burtle, a 20-year-old U.S. university student, offered his soul for sale on eBay in 2001, with bidding hitting $400 before eBay called it off, saying there had to be something tangible to sell. Burtle later admitted he was a bored geek.
(Reporting by James Thornhill; Editing by David Fogarty)
SYDNEY (Reuters) - A man who put his life up for auction on eBay found it wasn't worth quite as much as he thought when he settled for around A$100,000 less than his target price.
Ian Usher, 44, held the seven-day auction of all his belongings, including his three-bedroom home in the west Australian city of Perth and a trial for his job at a rug store, after the break-up of his five-year marriage.
Bids had reached as high as A$2.2 million, only for Usher to discover there had been a glitch on eBay's system which allowed the participation of non-registered bidders who had put in bogus offers.
In the end, the winning bidder agreed to pay A$399,300 ($380,286) for all of Usher's worldly goods, which also include his friends, a motorcycle and a jetski. According to the eBay website, the mystery buyer, whose user name is "mslmcc," is in Australia and has a 100 percent feedback score.
Usher, who gave regular updates on the auction on his Web site www.alife4sale.com, now plans to travel in search of a new life.
He's not the first person to put his life on the block.
American John Freyer started All My Life For Sale (www.allmylifeforsale.com) in 2001 and sold everything he owned on eBay, later visiting the people who bought his things.
Adam Burtle, a 20-year-old U.S. university student, offered his soul for sale on eBay in 2001, with bidding hitting $400 before eBay called it off, saying there had to be something tangible to sell. Burtle later admitted he was a bored geek.
(Reporting by James Thornhill; Editing by David Fogarty)
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Stranger than Fiction
Escaped thief asks police to open handcuffs
A man caught breaking into a German supermarket late at night escaped only to be arrested after he ran to a nearby police station to get the handcuffs removed.
A security guard had cuffed the man and held three others after spotting the break-in.
But by the time officers arrived, the man had managed to escape. Arriving at the police station, the 19-year-old told officers he had been locked up by a friend as a joke, and asked for their help.
The officers at first went along with the ruse and removed the cuffs. However, suspecting he was the missing man from the break-in, they pressed him for details.
The man then confessed his role and was promptly re-united with his three accomplices in the station's prison cell.
A man caught breaking into a German supermarket late at night escaped only to be arrested after he ran to a nearby police station to get the handcuffs removed.
A security guard had cuffed the man and held three others after spotting the break-in.
But by the time officers arrived, the man had managed to escape. Arriving at the police station, the 19-year-old told officers he had been locked up by a friend as a joke, and asked for their help.
The officers at first went along with the ruse and removed the cuffs. However, suspecting he was the missing man from the break-in, they pressed him for details.
The man then confessed his role and was promptly re-united with his three accomplices in the station's prison cell.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Stranger than Fiction...
Fredric J. Baur, of Cincinnati, died May 4 at Vitas Hospice in Cincinnati, his family said. He was 89.
Baur's children said they honored his request to bury him in one of the cans by placing part of his cremated remains in a Pringles container in his grave in suburban Springfield Township.
The rest of his remains were placed in an urn buried along with the can, with some placed in another urn and given to a grandson, said Baur's daughter, Linda Baur of Diamondhead, Miss.
Baur requested the burial arrangement because he was proud of his design of the Pringles container, a son, Lawrence Baur of Stevensville, Mich., said Monday.
Baur was an organic chemist and food storage technician who specialized in research and development and quality control for Cincinnati-based Procter & Gamble Co.
Baur filed for a patent for the tubular Pringles container and for the method of packaging the curved, stacked chips in the container in 1966, and it was granted in 1970, P&G archivist Ed Rider said.
Baur's children said they honored his request to bury him in one of the cans by placing part of his cremated remains in a Pringles container in his grave in suburban Springfield Township.
The rest of his remains were placed in an urn buried along with the can, with some placed in another urn and given to a grandson, said Baur's daughter, Linda Baur of Diamondhead, Miss.
Baur requested the burial arrangement because he was proud of his design of the Pringles container, a son, Lawrence Baur of Stevensville, Mich., said Monday.
Baur was an organic chemist and food storage technician who specialized in research and development and quality control for Cincinnati-based Procter & Gamble Co.
Baur filed for a patent for the tubular Pringles container and for the method of packaging the curved, stacked chips in the container in 1966, and it was granted in 1970, P&G archivist Ed Rider said.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
A Little Humor....
How Many Women?
A little boy was attending his first wedding. After the service, his cousin asked him, "How many women can a man marry?"
"Sixteen," the boy responded.
His cousin was amazed that he knew the answer so quickly."How do you know that?"
"Easy," the little boy said.
"All you have to do is add it up, like the Preacher said: 4 better, 4 worse, 4 richer, 4 poorer."
A little boy was attending his first wedding. After the service, his cousin asked him, "How many women can a man marry?"
"Sixteen," the boy responded.
His cousin was amazed that he knew the answer so quickly."How do you know that?"
"Easy," the little boy said.
"All you have to do is add it up, like the Preacher said: 4 better, 4 worse, 4 richer, 4 poorer."
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
a good word from a friend, for teens!
When your young you tend to think you know everything,like your wise beyond your years,Not waiting to learn what experience brings,Never stop talking to use your ears,Make some mistakes, thats part of growing up,peer pressure can be so strong,Experimenting, trying all this new stuff,you think life is so long,I went down that road, i took it too far,i didn't just trip,I lost everything, my friends, clothes, and car,i willingly jumped off that cliff,The funny thing is God was still there,with arms wide open, waiting,Keeping me strong when i had no strength,holding me when i was fainting,Loving me where i was, but urging me to change,not wanting me to settle,Building in me perserverance and boldness,integrity and mettle,i say this to say, take my advice,what i'm saying is true,all that glitters isn't always nice,but God will see you through!!
Stranger Than Fiction
BERTHA, Minn. — The mother of a 13-year-old autistic boy says she wanted to take him to Mass on Sunday despite a court order that bans him from her church.
Carol Race ended up attending a different church — after the Todd County, Minn., sheriff stopped her and said she'd be arrested if she brought Adam to the Church of St. Joseph in Bertha.
There is a restraining order barring Race's son from St. Joseph's. The Reverend Daniel Walz wrote in court documents that Adam's behavior was disruptive and dangerous. Adam is more than 6 feet tall and over 225 pounds.
The pastor wrote that Adam spits, urinates and once struck a child during Mass.
Race says Adam doesn't spit, and that the urination is incontinence. She admits he once struck a child.
Race has already violated the restraining order once, and is scheduled to appear in court for that on Monday.
Carol Race ended up attending a different church — after the Todd County, Minn., sheriff stopped her and said she'd be arrested if she brought Adam to the Church of St. Joseph in Bertha.
There is a restraining order barring Race's son from St. Joseph's. The Reverend Daniel Walz wrote in court documents that Adam's behavior was disruptive and dangerous. Adam is more than 6 feet tall and over 225 pounds.
The pastor wrote that Adam spits, urinates and once struck a child during Mass.
Race says Adam doesn't spit, and that the urination is incontinence. She admits he once struck a child.
Race has already violated the restraining order once, and is scheduled to appear in court for that on Monday.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
A little Humor....
The Minister and the Taxi Driver
A minister has just died and is standing in line waiting to be judged and admitted to Heaven. While waiting he asks the man in front of him about himself. The man says, "I am a taxi driver from New York City.
"The angel standing at the gate calls out next, and the taxi driver steps up. The angel hands him a golden staff and a cornucopia of fruits, cheeses, and wine and lets him pass. The taxi driver is quite pleased, and proceeds through the gates.
Next, the minister steps up to the angel who hands him a wooden staff and some bread and water. The minister is very concerned and asks the angel, "That guy is a taxi driver and gets a golden staff and a cornucopia! I spend my entire life as a minister and get nothing! How can that be?"
The angel replies, "Up here we judge on results—all of your people sleep through your sermons—in his taxi, they pray."
A minister has just died and is standing in line waiting to be judged and admitted to Heaven. While waiting he asks the man in front of him about himself. The man says, "I am a taxi driver from New York City.
"The angel standing at the gate calls out next, and the taxi driver steps up. The angel hands him a golden staff and a cornucopia of fruits, cheeses, and wine and lets him pass. The taxi driver is quite pleased, and proceeds through the gates.
Next, the minister steps up to the angel who hands him a wooden staff and some bread and water. The minister is very concerned and asks the angel, "That guy is a taxi driver and gets a golden staff and a cornucopia! I spend my entire life as a minister and get nothing! How can that be?"
The angel replies, "Up here we judge on results—all of your people sleep through your sermons—in his taxi, they pray."
Monday, May 5, 2008
A Little Humor.....
God noticed that Adam was lonely.
He said to him "Adam, I am going to give you the perfect companion. She'll cook and clean and listen, she's perfect."
Adam replied, "What will she cost me?"
God said, "An arm and a leg."Shocked,
Adam said, "Well, what can I get for a rib?"
He said to him "Adam, I am going to give you the perfect companion. She'll cook and clean and listen, she's perfect."
Adam replied, "What will she cost me?"
God said, "An arm and a leg."Shocked,
Adam said, "Well, what can I get for a rib?"
Friday, May 2, 2008
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Stranger then Fiction
HONG KONG (Reuters) - Three Hong Kong anglers thought they had hit the big time when they sold their rare giant fish for HK$20,000 ($2,560) -- but they missed out on a HK$1 million bonanza, a newspaper reported on Friday.
The 85-kg Chinese Bahaba, also known as a giant yellow croaker, is believed to be the largest caught in Hong Kong in 10 years, Hong Kong's Apple Daily newspaper reported.
One of the anglers, a housewife called Mickey, was photographed lying beside the 1.68-metre (five-and-a-half-ft) fish after it had been hauled ashore, following a titanic 90-minute struggle.
The trio quickly sold the fish to a local fisherman for HK$20,000 thinking they'd hit the jackpot, but without realizing the croaker's true value, the paper reported.
The fisherman subsequently sold the rare giant fish -- which is highly prized for its costly swim bladder or fish maw -- to a seafood restaurant for HK$580,000.
The speculation didn't stop there. The fish was resold to a mainland Chinese buyer for over HK$1 million ($126,000), the newspaper reported.
The giant yellow croaker has become critically endangered and few survive to maturity given overfishing.
(Reporting by James Pomfret; Editing by Nick Macfie)
The 85-kg Chinese Bahaba, also known as a giant yellow croaker, is believed to be the largest caught in Hong Kong in 10 years, Hong Kong's Apple Daily newspaper reported.
One of the anglers, a housewife called Mickey, was photographed lying beside the 1.68-metre (five-and-a-half-ft) fish after it had been hauled ashore, following a titanic 90-minute struggle.
The trio quickly sold the fish to a local fisherman for HK$20,000 thinking they'd hit the jackpot, but without realizing the croaker's true value, the paper reported.
The fisherman subsequently sold the rare giant fish -- which is highly prized for its costly swim bladder or fish maw -- to a seafood restaurant for HK$580,000.
The speculation didn't stop there. The fish was resold to a mainland Chinese buyer for over HK$1 million ($126,000), the newspaper reported.
The giant yellow croaker has become critically endangered and few survive to maturity given overfishing.
(Reporting by James Pomfret; Editing by Nick Macfie)
A Poem To Touch your life....(Sent in by Kaytee B)
Safe at Last
Im so afraid
Afraid that people might see
Who I really am.
I try to hide it:
Outside im calm cool collected.
But inside im clumbling
Into a million pieces.
I cant hide it forever;
Sometimes the mask slips off
And im exposed and vulnerable.
I feel so naked
And everyone is looking at me.
They can see right through me.
But I put my mask back on
And im safe behind it.
Nothing can happen to me there.
Safe.
But the fear comes back again just like it always does.
Then im crying out again,
Crying for help inside.
The mask comes off again.
Thats when I feel Him
Holding my hand.
The voice says, "Do not fear my child,
For I love you exactly as you are
And I will always be with you."
Suddenly a peace comes over me
Because I know he loves me
Just the way I am.
written by Bethany Schwartz
Im so afraid
Afraid that people might see
Who I really am.
I try to hide it:
Outside im calm cool collected.
But inside im clumbling
Into a million pieces.
I cant hide it forever;
Sometimes the mask slips off
And im exposed and vulnerable.
I feel so naked
And everyone is looking at me.
They can see right through me.
But I put my mask back on
And im safe behind it.
Nothing can happen to me there.
Safe.
But the fear comes back again just like it always does.
Then im crying out again,
Crying for help inside.
The mask comes off again.
Thats when I feel Him
Holding my hand.
The voice says, "Do not fear my child,
For I love you exactly as you are
And I will always be with you."
Suddenly a peace comes over me
Because I know he loves me
Just the way I am.
written by Bethany Schwartz
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
A Little joke around....
Three buddies die in a car crash, and they go to heaven.There, they are all asked, "When you are in your casket and friends and family are mourning, what would you like to hear them say about you?"The first guy says, "I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man." The second guy says, "I would like to hear that I was a wonderful husband and school teacher who made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow."The last guy replies, "I would like to hear them say, 'Look! He's moving!'"
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Monday, April 21, 2008
A Few Would You Rathers....
Would you rather have a life filled with sadness but help others or have a happy, carefree life and make no difference in the world?
Would you rather have acne on your face or warts all over your hands?
Would you rather be covered with spiders or with snakes?
Please comment on these, I would love to hear your answers.
Would you rather have acne on your face or warts all over your hands?
Would you rather be covered with spiders or with snakes?
Please comment on these, I would love to hear your answers.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
A few would you rathers....
1.Would you rather be rich or famous?
2. Would you rather die by fire or by drowning?
3. Would you rather be healthy and homeless or have the AIDS virus and live in luxury?
Comment on these if you like, i would love to hear your answers...
2. Would you rather die by fire or by drowning?
3. Would you rather be healthy and homeless or have the AIDS virus and live in luxury?
Comment on these if you like, i would love to hear your answers...
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
What does God want with me?
This was posted on myspace (May 15, 2007) when I did not know where God was leading me. My prayer is that you find this encouraging, know ing that our Savior is an Awesome God!!
Where do I start? Knowing, no, Finding God's Will can be one of the hardest things to seek. I first thought that it was easy, but recently I have found that it is not. Let me Explain, As most people know, God has called me to the Youth Ministry several years ago. I have been applying for about a year now. And recently there was this one Church that Sherry and I thought God was calling me. I have prayed for a small youth group, full Time job, and close to home, this Church was all three things. So we went for the interview and thought that it went well. We started to pray about it and after awhile, we came to the same conclusion,that this is where God was going to call us. Then the not so good news, I received an email last Thursday, stating that they were going in a different direction, and I must admit I was devestated. Now you may wonder why I was devestated? I thought this was it, I thought God's Will had sent me to this Church, now I am not mad at God or upset with Him but I was confused.
Now the Winter retreat came up and again I was not really up to it, but I went. Now their was some good times and also some not so good, but I must admit, there was several hours on Saturday night that really made my night. Well now it is Sunday and I was still confused and I prayed to God to reveal Himself to me, and He did in a wonderful way.He led me to several verses and I would like to share a few of them.
God led me to Hebrews 10:35-36, bascially God showed me that this was a journey(Endurance) that I am on and that I should keep up my confidence. Wow, that was great to hear and that would have been enough but God was not done. He then led me to Phil. 4:6 and it says to not worry and make my request known, then he led me to I John 5:14, which I got out of that was again confidence and asking anything according to His Will He will hear me, then finally Matthew 21:22, which I learned that what I ask in Prayer, believe and I shall receive. A old Student of mine, shared with me the other night that sometimes God does not give us what we want right away, because God wants us to get closer with Him. I really believe that.
I write all these to say this, God's will may not be so clear when we want it to be, but we are on a journey and God will answer our prayers when He is ready and not us. Never give up and remember all He wants is for us to have a Personal relationship with Jesus Christ and to share that with a dying world.
Where do I start? Knowing, no, Finding God's Will can be one of the hardest things to seek. I first thought that it was easy, but recently I have found that it is not. Let me Explain, As most people know, God has called me to the Youth Ministry several years ago. I have been applying for about a year now. And recently there was this one Church that Sherry and I thought God was calling me. I have prayed for a small youth group, full Time job, and close to home, this Church was all three things. So we went for the interview and thought that it went well. We started to pray about it and after awhile, we came to the same conclusion,that this is where God was going to call us. Then the not so good news, I received an email last Thursday, stating that they were going in a different direction, and I must admit I was devestated. Now you may wonder why I was devestated? I thought this was it, I thought God's Will had sent me to this Church, now I am not mad at God or upset with Him but I was confused.
Now the Winter retreat came up and again I was not really up to it, but I went. Now their was some good times and also some not so good, but I must admit, there was several hours on Saturday night that really made my night. Well now it is Sunday and I was still confused and I prayed to God to reveal Himself to me, and He did in a wonderful way.He led me to several verses and I would like to share a few of them.
God led me to Hebrews 10:35-36, bascially God showed me that this was a journey(Endurance) that I am on and that I should keep up my confidence. Wow, that was great to hear and that would have been enough but God was not done. He then led me to Phil. 4:6 and it says to not worry and make my request known, then he led me to I John 5:14, which I got out of that was again confidence and asking anything according to His Will He will hear me, then finally Matthew 21:22, which I learned that what I ask in Prayer, believe and I shall receive. A old Student of mine, shared with me the other night that sometimes God does not give us what we want right away, because God wants us to get closer with Him. I really believe that.
I write all these to say this, God's will may not be so clear when we want it to be, but we are on a journey and God will answer our prayers when He is ready and not us. Never give up and remember all He wants is for us to have a Personal relationship with Jesus Christ and to share that with a dying world.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
SEC 2008
Over 1200 youth and adults participated this past weekend (March7-9) from the BCM/D to give Baltimore a little face lift. There was all kind of different projects that were being done, most of them out in the rain. Thank you to Emily Brown for helping us at St. Janney playground, as three youth groups raked leaves, pulled vines and picked up trash throughout the playground. We even had the oppurtunity to talk to some of the people who lived there and some of the kids came and helped us clean their playground. Awesome job kids!1This are just some of the youth from FBCE that helped. Thank you to all that did God's work
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Made To Love
Read the words to the song, Made To Love
Read them slow, so that you understand what is being said.
The dream is fading now I'm staring at the doorI know it's over 'cause my feet have hit the cold floorCheck my reflection, I ain't feeling what I seeIts no mysteryWhatever happened to a passion I could live for?What became of the flame that made me feel more?And when did I forget … That I was made to love YouI was made to find YouI was made just for YouMade to adore YouI was made to love and be loved by YouYou were here before meYou were waiting on meAnd you said You'd keep me never would You leave meI was made to loveAnd be loved by YouThe dream's alive with my eyes open wideBack in the ring You got me swingin' for the grand prizeI feel the haters spittin' vapors on my dreamsBut I still believe …I'm reaching out, reachin' up, reachin' overI feel a breeze cover me called JehovahAnd Daddy I'm on my way …Anything, I would give up for YouEverything, I'd give it all awayHow do you feel when you read these words,
Have you lost that Love that God gave us? Do we care what we do with our lives?
We were Made to love Him and find Him, we were made for Him. Jesus gave us life and what have we done for Him? Before Jesus takes us home, whether it is tonight or tomorrow or when He returns, let us try to Love Him back the way that He loves us.
Read them slow, so that you understand what is being said.
The dream is fading now I'm staring at the doorI know it's over 'cause my feet have hit the cold floorCheck my reflection, I ain't feeling what I seeIts no mysteryWhatever happened to a passion I could live for?What became of the flame that made me feel more?And when did I forget … That I was made to love YouI was made to find YouI was made just for YouMade to adore YouI was made to love and be loved by YouYou were here before meYou were waiting on meAnd you said You'd keep me never would You leave meI was made to loveAnd be loved by YouThe dream's alive with my eyes open wideBack in the ring You got me swingin' for the grand prizeI feel the haters spittin' vapors on my dreamsBut I still believe …I'm reaching out, reachin' up, reachin' overI feel a breeze cover me called JehovahAnd Daddy I'm on my way …Anything, I would give up for YouEverything, I'd give it all awayHow do you feel when you read these words,
Have you lost that Love that God gave us? Do we care what we do with our lives?
We were Made to love Him and find Him, we were made for Him. Jesus gave us life and what have we done for Him? Before Jesus takes us home, whether it is tonight or tomorrow or when He returns, let us try to Love Him back the way that He loves us.
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