MEIN BLOG

Revelation

2010-07-10T07:44:00.008-05:00

Isaiah 6: 1-8
Isaiah's Cleansing and Call
It was in the year King Uzziah dieds that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. They were calling out to each other,

"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven's Armies!
The whole earth is filled with his glory!"

Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke.

Then I said, "It's all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven's Armies."

Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a burning coal he had taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. He touched my lips with it and said, "See, this coal has touched your lips. Now your guilt is removed, and your sins are forgiven."

Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?"
I said, "Here I am. Send me."

I'm reading a book called Crazy Love and hit the passage and it brought back good memories.

Many many years ago, I shared from Isaiah 6 at church. I had the task of opening the service with a scripture. Many times I just said stuff. But one weekend I had read this and it was burning in me. I guess because like Isaiah, I often felt insignificant to be a messenger.

Sometimes it takes tragedy like a death of someone we care about to wake us up to the fact that this life is not the end state. To remind us that we need to have an eternal perspective not just a 60-80 year mentality.

Isn't it weird how in times of difficulty we turn to God? But often we don't stay long enough to experience what Isiah saw. He received a revelation of how big and awesome God is and how he pales in comparison to that. I so need that perspective. God is great but am I believing it in my priorities?

Although God is great and we are insignificant, He cares about us individually to cleanse us and bring us into a restored relationship with Him. He doesn't want a Sunday relationship with us, but He wants us to share our lives with Him. Although we cannot reach Him on our own terms, He meets us where we are at.

But he doesn't leave us there. He wants to transform us as we acknowledge our need for something greater than us. Our need for forgiveness. However, not so we can wallow in our pity or what we should have done. But so we can take on the mission of showing His love in spite of our weaknesses and failures.

We have probably all been guilty of taking our relationship with Christ for granted or becoming too familiar with Him but not trying to know Him. I know I have (and do). It's part of my distractable brain. But if we would just put the toys away for a bit. And seek Him and ask Him to make a difference in our lives, I bet He would. After all He suffered and died to meet you.

Copyright © Holy Bible, New

Day 1

2009-10-20T08:32:00.001-05:00

Flew over the Alps to land in Aviano. Kyle & I saw a former/future coworker Angie Keen.

Landed at Al Udeid and were assigned to transient lodging (tents and bunks)

I grabbed a shower and slept from 7-12

I'll be posting more after I go where I'm going!

Miss you all!!!

Posted from my iPhone

This far; No further.

2009-08-24T15:39:00.004-05:00

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7 NLT)

In Star Trek 8: First Contact, Capt Picard has had enough with retreating from the enemy. Last night we took a stand in our household. Our pastor challenged us to pray as a family to turn the tide. In service, I thought I would wait and see what my wife says, but sometime during the day I decided to ANNOUNCE we would do it.

I'll be honest it was a bit awkward because I was expecting protests but how can fellow Christians disagree to gather together and pray? All of us knew our home needs it. So at 9PM I gathered everyone in the living room and started out. I began to pray boldly asking Christ to change the dynamics of our home. Then Judy prayed in agreement and then Josh took a turn. We then all prayed again.

God exceeded my low expectations. We agreed and lifted up our home in prayer and just asked God to change patterns of conduct which broke down barriers - or at least fractured them. Afterwards we talked like we haven't in a long time. Conversations flowed and I could tell our simple step of obedience blessed us.

So if the enemy is advancing and even friends are saying give up, I recommend you draw a line in the sand and say no more. I believe our house will never be the same. We may stumble, we may fall down, but we won't give up.

How about you?

How Much Does God Love You?

2009-08-12T21:03:00.015-05:00

John 17:23
"...and that you love them as much as you love me." (NLT)

"...and have loved them even as you have loved me." (NIV)

"...and loved them, even as You have loved Me" (NASB)

"...and loved them In the same way you’ve loved me." MSG

This verse astounds me. I stumbled upon it while my time in Germany was winding down. I was a little disappointed in how things had turned out. Then I hit this verse.

Jesus was praying for us (those believers to come) and in His prayer, He utters these words. Saying that the Father loves us in the same manner as He loves JESUS. He's talking about US. Loving struggling believers and JESUS the perfect ONE in the SAME MANNER. How awesome is that? Hope it blesses you!

Ruby Falls

2009-07-04T23:17:00.001-05:00

Often when driving to Atlanta (and by often I mean 4th time), we would say let's go to Ruby Falls. I mean every barn or billboard from Nashville to Chatanooga advertises both Rock City & Ruby Falls. Well this time we finally did & it was a blast! Here are the pics

I have that book!!

2009-06-20T21:47:00.000-05:00

Last week I was in a decision making class. During one of the breaks, we started talking about marriage. Someone told me to get the "5 Love Languages" book. Without thinking, I exclaimed "I have that book but have not read it!". Everone laughed .

Well tonight I was thinking about how I need to buckle down and read more & just looked at all the books I have unread (or unfinished) on my book shelf

Numerous bible studies from Kay Arthur & Spirit Filled Life (polar opposites I know)

The next shelf up has bibles, marriage books, self help, etc

And more bibles, Matthew Henry commentaries, & a Strongs Concordance that let's me look up the bible words in the Greek or Hebrew language. I asked my dad for the concordance on my 16th bday because I was going to be a pastor :). He inscribed it:

"To Stephan on your 16th birthday. May God always be with you & guide your path thru this life, Love Dad". Pretty awesome of him to write in it. That alone makes it worth keeping!

And now I can say I started reading the books on my bookshelf!

Post From My iPhone

Scotland Bike Ride

2009-06-19T22:52:00.001-05:00

Went on a little bike ride - so much nicer riding in Scotland than Oklahoma! However, the bike I rode was a little scary - it was a reject that was nit used for the bike project.

Here are some pics:

Post From My iPhone

Fraternity Days

2009-05-15T23:54:00.016-05:00

Just scanned some pics from my days at ECU in Ada. I left my Christian school in beautiful Tennessee to live in Ada, Oklahoma. Maybe I should have prayed about it more...

I have an old photo album and here is the first picture in it. Zane & Curtis were being stupid. Zane did the art stuff and Curtis, well was his beast of burden. Looking at this picture is bitter-sweet. Zane passed away in November 2008 and it still is hard to look at old photos.

Wrestling in the lounge. You know me I'm not a fighter...hiding behind the camera. The guy throwing people around was Wade Hampton. He dated a girl name Beverly. I will never forget that because we pledges would sing walk like a Wade Hampton to the tune of Walk like an Egyptian. Then in monotone chant - "I love you Bev, I love you Bev." Mimicking some dude that would walk around hunchback playing with his ring.

My buddy Zane liked to pose...

and pose.

Zane Wiggins (Feb 6 1966 - Nov 2008)

Miss you brother.

@meintweet goes to Scotland

2009-05-08T21:32:00.024-05:00

This all started with me going to morning prayer and then breakfast with our associate pastor Nathan and some Master Commission students. While I am hanging out with them, I was asked once again to go to Scotland. So to stop it, I call my supervisor figuring there was no way I could just take off two weeks of unscheduled leave in the middle of an audit. He tells me go ahead and my wife also gives the green light. So after a day of caffeine, I get hyper and say I am in. So about a month later I am heading to Scotland...did I mention I normally don't fly unless I have to?

We depart OKC early April 22 to make our journey. After 3 flights and some horrible sleep, we finally make it to beautiful Scotland. Even as I am nodding off, I know this will be a wonderful experience.

Our missionary friends in Scotland, the Blairs, live in the country near Lilliesleaf and rent a beautiful home. It made missionary life suddenly seem appealing to me. The home was actually built in 1865 and on the property there is actually a memorial tower. The missionaries son plays the fiddle and goes up in the tower sometimes to play. Exploring the area was a nice way to stay awake when your body is screaming for sleep.

Our first day in country we actually had the youth group over. Now here in the States we get spoiled with large youth groups and sometimes whole activity centers. But in Scotland the youth consisted of a few young men that don't even attend the same church. They just come together on Wednesday nights to worship via accoustic guitar and the fiddle.

What greatly impressed me was I thought we would have to pump them up but they came ready to sing and you could tell they were worshipping with their hearts. It was awesome. The missionary, John Blair mainly wanted us to just hang with them and "be real." Well with me he got more than he bargained for as this video shows - a combination of jet lag and the fiddler got to me.

Our first project was a clean up project. Right away we were making an impact on our community. Couple of Scots walking by said we would be there all day. I wonder what they thought of the Americans all the way in Scotland picking up their trash.

The ministry we were assisting is the Gala Christian Center in Galashiels, Scotland, UK. The small church was having an impact on the community. In October they started collecting bikes to send to Africa. The local newspapers advertised it and it got to the point they had to turn down bikes. They plan to continue this project in the future. Our part was loading the bikes into a container which was a huge relief to the missionary pastor!

Ghana Bike Project from John Blair on Vimeo.

Following the bike project we spent the next two days in Galashiels. First to meet folks and invite them to the Sunday service, and then we attended a Church of Scotland service and shared in the Gala Christian Center service. During my time wandering around I wound up in a historic house for some cappuccino. While in there I noticed Christian artwork and it turns out the artist was a manic depressive who was diagnosed in the States and came to know Christ as her personal savior. She expresses her walk with Christ and struggle with her disease through her art. We exchanged a few e-mails but unfortunately we could not meet.

While over in Scotland we took some time to see Edinburgh, Sterling, and I took two bike rides with the missionaries son (@thefiddleman). Here are some pictures from the castles, the streets, the parks, and the scenic bike ride. I loved it. If the Scots spake German I'd be at hem.

We even got to meet the local superhero - the Blue Cross Defender.

Although there weren't massive conversions, we were a help to the missionary family, the associate pastor and his family and the church. Plus we cleaned the place up a little :) What I took away was the sense of community the church had and how they reached across denominational lines to do touch lives in Galashiels, Scotland, and far away places like Ghana.

Finally, I want to thank countrygirlie and IJ for their huge support in my getting to go.

My Son on Helium

2009-04-03T21:55:00.003-05:00

My Jerry Maguire Moment

2009-03-03T22:13:00.008-06:00

During a Sunday service, I felt impressed to share with my co-workers of my disappointment at being a poor reflection of Christ. As the night progressed, events occurred that just built momentum.

The next morning I sat at my computer and composed the following e-mail and, while hitting the send button, I said things are going to get weird!

Dear co-workers:

You are receiving this because I interact with you daily or have in the past, or you are in earshot of my cubicle.

I am struggling with writing this e-mail. Yesterday during church, I was kind of reflecting on how I convey Christianity in my conversation and actions at the workplace. I really believe I've earned the "christianish" label and really hypocrite or lukewarm would be better. No one is perfect but I feel my conversation has taken an even more negative turn. I've been negative about my faith, marriage, work, etc. In no way conveying what I PROFESS to believe in...it's like there is an [work] Steve, Home Steve & Church Steve and unlike George Castanza I NOW want my worlds to collide.

Right before 9th grade, I being an unchurched boy, asked Christ to be my personal savior. It was a 180 turn in my life that people could see - genuine joy in my life. This was a transformative experience as I went from a C student to an A student and Christ in me was a core part of who I was not just a Sunday thing.

As an adult, I've became what I despise - a religious man, instead of someone that has a relationship with Christ. A lot of it is frankly double-mindedness and not renewing my mind daily in personal devotions. Trying to walk in two different worlds. For example, crass joking and negative talking should not be a part of someone who claims to follow Christ who promises us just not life but life more abundantly.

Last night I went out with a group of young Christians that are in there 20ies to early 30ies. As the conversations wound down, one lady said I have to say something. She thanked me for being an older person that has a passion for Christ and someone the younger males can look to as an "example" or "mentor". As she is saying this, I thought, what would [co-worker names withheld] think if they were sitting here hearing this compliment? More importantly what would my wife think? Is this even remotely what they see at home or work? Would it make them want to
puke? That all the more made me want to send this e-mail to you.

So I guess what I am trying to do is apologize for the person that I have been. The last thing I ever would want to do is be guilty of turning anyone away from Christ because of my conversation or behavior. I've been content to take Jesus out of the box on Sunday and then tucking Him away for the week. Trying to live of off Sundays sermon for the week. Being too distracted with the urgent to take care of the important. And frankly it's not working for me nor does it for anyone.

I'm sorry for saying/professing one thing but acting out another. Not trying to butcher myself publicly but genuinely sorry for bringing any reproach to Christ.

I'm not looking for an acknowledgement or how I'm really not that bad. I am telling you I am and have fallen far short of what I believe a Christian should be and I am believing this is a step into making amends for that. I want my faith to be real and relevant in all of my life including my job and my interactions with you.

So now I have taken the easy step to apologize...now comes the hard part to live it. Hope you see a difference in me as I endeavor to follow Him a lot closer than I have been.

After sending it, I got up and grabbed some coffee and let it hit people's e-mails.

I sat down and read a response from my pastor that basically said bold move! So I re-read my e-mail and just said "wow!" I then said I am having a Jerry Maguire
moment. To which the guy next to me replied "the mission statement", and laughed a bit awkwardly. Another co-worker asked me what was going on with me and I just said the e-mail conveyed it and I needed to get it out. He asked if I was afraid it would be elevated up the channel. My response was no and I even included my supervisor. Another co-worker said it was encouraging and he was having similar thoughts.

It has been only one day since the e-mail went out but I have experienced pure joy in my workplace that I cannot recall. It has been liberating. I am not claiming to have arrived. I just conveyed what I believe the standard is and what I hope to demonstrate. I eventually want to demonstrate and say "follow me as I follow Christ!" I like that it is out there!

So what do you think?

Test

2009-02-22T14:06:00.001-06:00

Trying out an iPhone app so I can blog more often since the kids hog the laptop

Friday 13th

2009-02-13T13:55:00.004-06:00

My wife and I were silly 20 years and 1 month ago. We thought we should get married in Janaury on Friday 13th. How weird was that? I guess we should have went all out and walked under ladders and had black cats all over the church. The groomsmen and I could have worn hockey masks.

If you're considering a January wedding - don't!! Spring Summer or Fall but not Winter.

Hung Jury

2009-01-16T17:00:00.001-06:00

But I'm deadlocked on what to post!

2008-11-14T22:46:00.001-06:00

Word Play

2008-11-11T16:56:00.004-06:00

Well this is really embarrassing to admit. Not only do I butcher the English language when writing (eg. to vs. too, by vs. buy, you're vs. your, effect vs. affect). But I also mispronounce words. For instance today, I learned that cumin is a spice for Mexican dishes. I was wondering if it was really needed in chili and was advised not to exclude it. Well when my wife came home, I said I had to run to the store to buy some cumin but I was pronouncing it come-in. Well she quickly corrected me and I even looked it up to make sure she was right, and yes, I was way off. It is actually pronounced KUH-mihn. So thankfully, I knew where the spices are stocked and did not ask the grocery lady where the cumin was located. I could have been arrested!!!

I have also misused words because of my German mom. She used to always use the phrase "chew them down" when referring to the act of bargaining. Now I really hope that was the phrase she was using. Well this year at the ripe old age of 42, I learned no one says "chew them down" but instead uses the derogatory phrase "Jew them down." I was mortified. I mentioned it to my cube mate and he said he was always shocked I used the phrase since it wasn't Christianish. But I found out I am not alone. A friend from Indiana used the same phrase.

So if I have ever been offensive it's due to my German heritage.

Miss you Zane

2008-11-07T00:08:00.006-06:00

Tonight I received horrible news. Recently I made contact with an old fraternity brother, Zane, who was a blast to be around. We both had an AG background but at the time we were pledging a fraternity and pretty much just being stupid. However, a bond was formed and when it came to naming my son just 7 years later, I chose Zane as his middle name rather than giving him my name - okay Judy was not going for Stephan Zane. I really liked him and also thought the name was a cool California name rather than a Western novelists name (Zane Grey).

I googled him this summer and found his facebook site. We shot a few messages back and forth on facebook and found out he was here in Oklahoma for the Summer. I called him twice and left dorky a messages on his phone like "give me the creed pledge" or something like that. I never heard back so figured he moved back to the Northeast.

Today I receive a facebook message wanting to know if I was Zane's friend and that I should call or message back at my earliest oppertunity. I just figured it was someone trying to track him down and was planning on calling Zane before giving information out. After a few messages back and forth, I read this "Steve, Zane passed away early yesterday morning. He was hit by a car and died instantly." It was gut wrenching and right now I am wishing it was just a sick story.

I called her up on the way to pick up my son from church. I was supposed to take my Josh Zane to get something to eat but I am just driving aimlessly around our city talking randomly about memories. I told her how he used to open his wallet and start showing pictures of his family and then come to a picture of Elvis and say "this is my dad." Man it was cheesy and I would just laugh. We would do stupid stuff to pledges but more in a fun, relief way as opposed to harsh treatment. I plan to scan old pictures to show you some of the stuff. Hope I can find them soon.

The last time I remember seeing him would have been in the fall of 1990. He took a hop into Tinker AFB and I hauled him and my pregnant wife down to Ada to hit our old stomping grounds. Judy you're a saint for going along.

Since then we maybe interacted only two or three times until recently.

Our last "conversation" saved on Facebook

Me (Aug 3): "Hey is this Zane from...East Central University. If so, man how have you been doing?"

Zane: "Oh my god. I was looking for you last week. All over the internet. Oh my god. Wow."

Me: "Cool. Did I ever tell you that my son's middle name is Zane. I am so glad to find you but did not think you would be on the East Coast. We're still in Oklahoma but did two assignments in Europe" [noticed I had to slip Germany in the convo]

Z: "Brother, I'm in Edmond for the summer! I'm here now."

That pretty much was the end. Just a few days ago I checked his profile out because someone tagged him in pictures.

I was so happy to get back in contact with him and so wish I would have called, e-mailed, and messaged him more so I could have seen him before he passed away. Now I just sit her stunned, waiting to hear news of where his funeral is and paying my respects. Would have loved coffee at Starbucks, reminiscing about old times, and sharing new stories.

PHI KAPPA TAU
The mission of Phi Kappa Tau is to champion a lifelong commitment to brotherhood, learning, ethical leadership, and exemplary character.

I MISS YOU MY PLEDGE BROTHER AND SO WISH I WOULD HAVE KEPT OUR TIES STRONG. REGRET SUCKS!

Lil Josh

2008-11-03T22:34:00.002-06:00

I miss this guy.
My little buddy.
He is nearly all grown up.

I need to post something...

2008-10-30T19:37:00.003-05:00

I had a great time at the AIM breakthru conference, youth small group is going well, and I ran 3 times this week. Need to write about it but too tired. Need to finish up some studying so maybe this weekend. Until then enjoy...like anyone reads this :)

Maybe she is part lab....

2008-09-23T21:23:00.006-05:00

Today the dog, Sparky (aka Cujo) really made me laugh! I decided to plant some vines the neighbor gave me. By plant I mean jab and end in the dirt and water them. When I started the sprinkler the dog went absolutely mad. She started attacking the water. This went on for ever. Every now and then she would take a hack break - see my tweets for details. After I was through watering she would tentatively walk up to the sprinkler and I would turn it on. We went back and forth until I got bored - she was enthralled. Well then she starts barking at the thing like she's trying to get it to play. She is a blast but I know tonight the retching will start again so I am heading to bed early! I'm giving her antibiotics and pediatric cough suppressants. If that does not work I have a silver bullet.

New addition

2008-09-18T19:16:00.005-05:00

Way back when, we did not get this dog---------->
It was on craigs list but was gone by the time Judy caved. But I learned

So I pretty much gave up the dog thing. Sound pastoral advice (thanks Gene) was to never take in a dog again - somehow we never keep it for more than two years.

Well crazy thing happened on the way to the pound looking for a kitten - we found this girl and she was screaming rescue me. So I call Judy telling her you wont believe what is at the pound - a pom. Just like the one she said she wanted after I had liquored her up. But she wanted a puppy next Summer (i.e. $300 & delayed gratification). Okay you know me cheap and I want it now. PLus I was doing it for her. When Judy first mentioned a pom, I thought that is an old fat guy's dog but oddly enough I love it. How weird is that?

Well she was firm on the phone. So we stopped communicating (she hung up - I kid) and I pretty much gave up on it...but we took the first two pics anyway. Later that night we talked about it but she was holding her resolve - so I casually showed the offspring - who I might add we potty trained and never got rid off even when they messed up the carpet. I knew Judy caved when she asked Summer if she wouldn't rather have a kitten. She astutely observed, we already have one and I want the dog. An unbreakable alliance was formed.

I rushed to the shelter Saturday morning and the dog was still there. Plus a good deal was even better - $25 adoption fee which includes - get this - spaying, heartworm tests, flea/tick treatment, heartworm treatment and vaccinations. I also can bring her to four days of obedience training.

So she has been home just over 36 hours and I am still happy. I was up early (4:45)taking her out - guess I have no excuse for not doing morning devotions. She hangs right by me. She throws a little fit being kenneled but I think she is coming around. The cat is curious but has not totally warmed up to her. It won't be long before they are chasing one another around the house. Oh and get this - she fetches. I have a has a few dogs that just run around with whatever you throw but she brings it back and gives the toy (or sock) back. And she gets so excited at times she dribbles on the two year old carpet. How endearing! Really Judy it is.

I know I am a big kid - but I will be a responsible pet owner! Yet I am surrounded by scoffing friends, coworkers and neighbors who scream not again - don't you know the definition of insanity.

She still needs a name. Some names are wolfie, sparky and cujo but as I type this I am thinking "my precious!" and I will say it just like gollum.

Oh and some nameless person - initials country girl - suggested "someone elses". I can now empathise with her middle child's cry, "you hurt my feelings!" Boo country girl! Hope you enjoy the fried green cactus appetizers your getting in two weeks. Your cactus is going to die. And I will take a picture of you crying and blog about it!!!

Help me I've fallen...

2008-09-16T19:48:00.006-05:00

A few years ago while in the land of hills and forests, I went to a men's retreat. While there I received a beautiful letter from my daughter, Hailey. In it she encouraged me to receive what I needed from Christ. She stated that I often am critical and hard to myself. She shared this passage with me. Ps 37:24-25 "If the Lord delights in a man's way,he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."

To me that says as long as I am after Jesus, He will make my walk stronger. Too many times we try in our efforts but it is Christ in us doing the molding. We try to behave like Christians rather than just be Christians - imperfect people being perfected. So when we fail (stumble) we need to get up relying on His strength and not our own.

When my babies fell down, I encouraged them to get up and try again. Often times, I had to help them, walk beside them, or give them a strong arm to hold onto and balance themselves. So I guess I'll quit trying on my own.
BE ENCORAGED, I AM.

I just shared this scripture with a friend and it moved me and reminded me of the above, so here it is:

Is 50:4-7 The Sovereign LORD has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know what to say to all these weary ones. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will. The Sovereign LORD has spoken to me, and I have listened. I do not rebel or turn away. I give my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to those who pull out my beard. I do not hide from shame, for they mock me and spit in my face.
Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be dismayed. Therefore, I have set my face like a stone, determined to do his will. And I know that I will triumph. He who gives me justice is near. Who will dare to oppose me now? Where are my enemies? Let them appear! See, the Sovereign LORD is on my side! Who will declare me guilty? All my enemies will be destroyed like old clothes that have been eaten by moths!

Just look in the mirror like Stuart Smalley and just repeat the above until it gets in your spirit. Pray the word. LATERS.

Penny Pranks.... I love them.

2008-09-11T22:48:00.001-05:00

Scorpions @ our house

2008-09-04T18:39:00.002-05:00

No not the band....

...this kind.

Last year, my eldest - the baby who is nearly all grown up - and I were rushing around to get out the door for a missions trip to Mexico. I hear her cry out in pain, and my wife exclaims, "There is a scorpion!" I rush in and sing "Here I am to save the day!" I see the thing and just pulverize it - it was striking the whole time. Apparently, as Hailey was putting on a shoe she disrupted the scorpions nap or her pinkie toe looked like breakfast.

Anyway she was tough and we get on a bus ride from Oklahoma City to the Texas/Mexico border. Judy calls an exterminator and we are all good. After a month of being real careful putting on shoes, the critters are forgotten.

Well Tuesday night, I come home and ask the kids where is my other shoe that I store behind the sofa. (Not sure why this upsets Judy but I was trying to move them before she came home.) Well my second shoe was used to kill a scorpion they spotted in our hallway!

So off to Lowes and I sprayed some stuff that smells great. I plan to take a black light and look for some of its friends. I guess I will break down and hire professionals to spray for them. I am learning that they like to climb trees. That's what I get for planting them around the house - so now I get to spend my weekend caulking and weatherproofing the doors (I guess that gap I have been ignoring isn't good).

Beauty & the Beast - More than fairytale change!

2008-08-29T22:41:00.002-05:00

Don't you think this could be the Republican ticket's theme?

Right Man

2008-08-26T22:29:00.005-05:00

Just watched Hillary's speech. I thought it was good. Hope the right man gets Hillary's supporters.

Marriage has enlarged me greatly.

2008-08-26T17:40:00.009-05:00

19 years of marriage has made me almost twice the man I was before meeting Judy. Marriage has definitely enlarged me and expanded my horizons.

Before Marriage. Back in 1988. You can't see the rolled up jeans in the shot!

Notice how when I was thinner in the waist and fuller in the hair - Judy is clutching me but later in life she puts Summer between us. I guess she thinks if I get hungry she can outrun Summer. And that was twenty pounds ago!

She has even encouraged me to pick up a tennis rack, go biking with friends over the weekend. Why she is so understanding and lets me out of the house for youth camps ("stay another night!"), youth mission trips ("you sure they don't need you in mexico for two weeks!?!"), lockins ("You're only hosting one this week?!"), and movie nights ("Hey I bought you a season pass!"). Why she encourages me daily to get out of the house! I don't even have to go visit her family on holidays - she insists I just hang out with my friends. That is so unlike some of my friends whose wives never let them out of the house - Aunestly.

She must really love me. If you love someone you have to set them free but she keeps saying something about a bad penny. What does that have to do with me coming back home?

Yeah I was a mathlete and not an athlete - JEALOUS!?!

Time Keeps on Slipping Into the Future

2008-08-24T22:32:00.005-05:00

I am sitting here listening to some preaching and getting all sentimental. My daughter is a senior this year. I am thinking I need to spend more time with her and really regretting misplaced priorities. I have a finite time with her in my house and its making me realize where have I focused my time with her, her mom, and her two siblings. Its not that I love her most, its just her maturing that is hitting me like a 2 X 4 upside a mark. Is there a mark do you see it?

Anyway, when she was about 5 years old, I was TDY at some lamo conference but one time management seminar was really good. And it posed the question if you had one more hour in the day what would you do with it, and I put devotion and family. Then it encouraged you to restructure your day to hit your main priorities.

At that time in my life, books and watching TV took a lot of my time. Then it became playing computer games sometimes through the night and being all grumpy on Saturdays and Sundays. I had the opportunity to be with them in Europe where we could have seen castles on the weekend or went on a cool Summer day bike ride but Age of Empires, Starcraft, etc. took my time. Now I run home to read the latest blog, check CNN and FOX NEWS, and then check several social sites, all while competing with my kids for computer time.

Tomorrow night I plan to tell them all after supper that I am sorry that when I tore up my games in 2006, I picked up other things to fill my time instead of spending time with them. I say Jesus and family are important to me, but my time is not showing that. How about you?

Heb 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us.

You see, realizing you need to spend more time with your kids and doing it are two different things. I have just a one more year left with my baby. But maybe it's not too late for you!

Jeff Dye was robbed!!!

2008-08-08T20:49:00.003-05:00

HE SHOULD HAVE WON

My friends are laying it all on the line!

2008-07-22T21:22:00.003-05:00

Just got a letter from good friends. All I can say is wow.

Hi there…

So here’s the deal… “We’re done!” We can no longer sit in our safe, secure suburban life and watch the world from our armchair. We can’t sit idly by while an entire African generation is wiped out due to AIDS, leaving an orphan epidemic. Neither can we sit by while another American generation becomes video game zombies with zero passion about anything worthwhile, amazed that the world is not just about “them.”

When Jesus saw James and John fishing, He walked by and said “Follow Me”… and something in James and John knew that this man was worth following. Jesus didn’t say that he would make it easy, he didn’t promise a 401K, he just said “Follow Me.” So that is what we are going to do. We are going to go, and do whatever He tells us. With three children to raise and support, this is not just a whim. This is a commitment to become who God made all of us to be. We are excited to show our kids what the kingdom of God is all about…righteousness, peace, joy, power...We are even more excited to show them that spending another Saturday in a mall is not what life is all about.

God has called us to work with G42, an organization whose purpose is to raise up a generation of radical Christ-followers. Our desire is to live in a community of believers, of radicals, who are unashamed of the Message and who are dedicated to train an army of compassionate, loving, young adults to live as Jesus Christ—to love first, to care for the orphan and widow, and to proclaim His message of grace and power.

The ministries of G42 are currently The World Race, Nsoko Children’s Villages, and Leadership Training Centers. The World Race is a year-long missions trip that combines elements of adventure, community, and kingdom—a microcosm of what we’re about. The Nsoko Children’s Villages are self-sustaining villages, housing up 8-10 orphans each that provide vital necessities for children who have been unwilling victims of the AIDS virus that is running rampant through Africa. The Leadership Training Centers around the world will equip and disciple a generation of Christian businessmen, civic leaders, and pastors.

I hope you can see why we’re passionate, why we believe so much is at stake, why we feel such urgency. And though God has called us to this ministry, we can't do it without a lot of people behind us. Obviously we need prayer…to open doors that need to be opened, and to close others. Miracles, supernatural happenings... can and will happen, we are sure of it. We also need your financial support--food and shelter are good things! You know us and our hearts—you can trust us to be good stewards of your money and prayers—we won’t squander either of them. We will be based out of Europe and initially will need your help to be self-sufficient for the necessities of life.

We will send more updates soon, so you can know what we are doing and how the work is progressing. Please think about supporting us. We’d love to hear from you, so please reply.

Life in a garbage dump - what if it was you?

2008-07-20T14:18:00.002-05:00

A blog entry really hit me hard today. I don't know how to repost a whole blog entry but check it out here.

Do I open my home to this little guy

2008-07-18T15:51:00.004-05:00

After Lucky ran away, I said no more dogs. I was mad that he was always outside. Some good friends came through and had their two dogs with them. One was a German shepherd and Judy was wanting one for about a day or so. Which got me all thinking about getting another dog - I never learn. However, I don't want a dog that big!! I said too bad they don't have mini-Shepherds.

Well then I see this little guy on Craig's List.

Rocko needs a new home!!!

Rocko is a seven month old pup!!!He weighs about twenty five pounds and thats as big as he will get!!i just had a baby, and im unable to show him the attention he is wanting...he is house trained, kennel trained and good with kids, dogs and cats..He would like to have a fenced in yard and maybe another dog to play with but not a must...there will be a very small re-homing fee to insure he goes to a loving home !!e-mail me if interested and i will send more pics then!!!

Well I sent an e-mail and I am assured he won't get bigger - a mini Shepherd see!!! He is the best dog ever but yet someone is giving him away. Hmmm. He even said there are many people wanting to look at him - yet DAYS LATER he is still available. IT'S A SIGN. The auditor in me is skeptical but the ADD dude is saying please let me get him. I will love him, walk him, neuter him, and then a day or two later fill up his water bowl, scoop poop, and wonder why I ever got him. So should I? Immediate gratification or do I use wisdom?

Oh faithful readers - okay reader - help a brother out. Wait before you give me advise don't forget the spiritual aspect of having this dog. Yes, there is a spiritual benefit. I will be having middle school kids at my house twice a month for discipleship. And I may be boring, but they will love this dog. Right!?! Then they will come and draw closer to God. Plus by the time Spring rolls around I could give him away as a prize for best attender. Or Winter. Depends how long he peaks my interest.

Have you seen the SNL, Mile Myers skit where he is chained to the monkey bars - that is me and Judy is trying her best to restrain me. She has caved to at least looking at him tonight! Oh yeah. She is even saying we would have to name him Wolfie if we do. C'mon, make daddy happy.

Separated but Not Forgotten

2008-07-12T19:54:00.003-05:00

This blog post by Seth Barnes made me think of how cool it is when friends / family reunite. It amazes me how you can have minimal contact, be separated for months or even years, yet when reunited it feels so good (okay could not resist the cheese). Enjoy but don't let the little ones see this!

In 1969, two friends, John Rendall and Ace Berg, purchased a lion. At the time, Christian the lion was a 35-pound cub. He had been born in a zoo. The friends raised Christian in their London home. All three hung out in a friend’s furniture shop on the weekends.
Within a year, Christian had grown to 185 lbs. Rendall and Berg realized they couldn’t keep him much longer. But they didn’t know what to do with him. A chance encounter changed that. Two actors from the film Born Free walked into the furniture store.

The actors recommended a conservationist, George Adamson, living in Kenya. Christian was soon in Africa. There he was rehabilitated and released into the wild.

In 1974, Rendall and Berg decided to visit Christian one last time. He was now a wild animal. Adamson told them it was doubtful that Christian could be found. No one had seen him in nine months.

The two flew to Kenya, anyway. On the day they landed, Christian appeared outside Adamson’s camp. Somehow, he knew. He waited outside the camp until Rendall and Berg arrived.

This video was taken during their reunion with Christian. What a story! What a video!

My Kid Are Back!!

2008-06-29T18:42:00.005-05:00

They are sleeping right now but they had a blast in Costa Rica the last 10 days on their youth group's mission trip.

Double-minded

2008-05-30T15:15:00.003-05:00

I've been doing a lot of second guessing lately. Wondering if I have made right decisions. Seeking counsel and finding nothing settles this restless mind of mine.

Then I get this e-mail from our youth pastor:

Want to encourage you to stay true to your time with the Lord. Without a renewed mind, (Romans 12:2), then we may take up things we are not suppose to take up or lay down things we should not.

Our life is not about "our" life but God's Kingdom and His purposes. Praying for you all daily.

I appreciate and love you much!

Sometimes we need to listen to whispers. Funny how God can talk to us in a simple e-mail to youth volunteers. I realize I have been pretty self centered and that always seems to frustrate me and my household. And the friends who keep seeing me wandering around aimlessly.

Snoop Cat

2008-05-21T22:37:00.004-05:00

This month has been bad on animals at our house. Friday night our cat - Snoop Cat, Snoops, or Snoopy cuz it really does not matter what you call him - got out so now we have to runaways. We have not seen him since...and no he is not out for that -- he is fixed. Maybe that is why he ran away or is it this pic?

I know the bible says God will rebuke the devourer but Lucky and Snoops were desired free loaders. Oh well, I think the pound is wondering if I am psycho and at least I am getting to know neighbors.

Lucky

2008-05-11T09:57:00.004-05:00

I miss my dog. He's been missing since last Sunday.

My baby dancing...

2008-05-03T21:21:00.004-05:00

Oklahoma Hail

2008-05-03T12:21:00.006-05:00

Tree House USA

2008-04-28T16:34:00.013-05:00

for·est /ˈfɔrɪst, ˈfɒr-/
–noun
1. a large tract of land covered with trees and underbrush; woodland.
2. the trees on such a tract: to cut down a forest.
3. a tract of wooded grounds in England formerly belonging to the sovereign and set apart for game.
4. a thick cluster of vertical objects: a forest of church spires.
–verb (used with object)
5. to supply or cover with trees; convert into a forest.

During the years I have planted several...

The river birch. I actually tried planting two other trees here but they kept dying. Too much water but this one liked it.

This Japanese Maple was a twig when I moved to Germany in 2001. I was hoping the renters would not pull it out thinking it was a weed.

I am thinking of cutting this trinity or Cleveland pear down. It never grew right and now it is damaged from the ice storm.

Now the backyard...

A crabapple. I took this picture too late. The blossoms were better a few days prior but nobody wanted to take another picture by the tree!

The purple leaf plum. It is actually my second one. I had planted a purple leaf plum in the front yard. Well, actually I thought it was a purple leaf plum but it turned out to be a plum tree. Real nice to but it was planted between my driveway and retaining wall so every summer we had plums in my driveway and my neighbors yard. So when I was renting it out, I told the neighbor he could cut it down if it was a nuisance - i left July 2001 and I think he cut it down the next day. Too late right?

Another crabapple. I am thinking about moving it.

Another cleveland or trinity pear. Probably firewood someday when a strong wind or ice storm comes through again.

Okay I went a little overboard with the trees! But I love planting them, digging a new hole and moving them. Some people collect comics, toys, cars - I collect trees. My weird obsession.

When I moved in all I had was this cedar tree in the backyard. A friend actually offered to cut it down. But oh no. I could not cut down a 20+ year old tree. Now I have a real eyesore in the backyard. Hmmm, maybe I can plant something in front of it. As you can see, it too was damaged in the GREAT ICE STORM OF 2008.

This is one of the first trees I planted - my red bud (gotta support the Sooner state) and a Bradford pear - because I actually liked these trees at one time.

The Bradford pear did not survive the ice storm and here is my only picture...

So I cut it down - RIP Stumpy 1994 to 2008.

Soon to be replace by this Flame Amur Clump Maple - red leaves in the fall.

So come on over and check out the trees in the spring when they are blooming or the fall when the leaves change. But watch out for the "treats" Lucky leaves behind.

Wow and while editing this post I realized I forgot to mention the Chinese Pistache...How could I forget that! Next to the cedar tree it is now my biggest tree in the backyard.

Coincidences

2008-04-14T19:13:00.004-05:00

Eph 2:10 (TLB) It is God himself who mas made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others

Wow talk about coincidences. Yesterday our pastor spoke on "Consumeranity." His premise was in America our faith tends to be processed as consumers. Christianity might be more accurately described as consumeranity. He pointed out the American dream is really a nightmare and gave Britney Spears as exhibit A. We are not about American dreams but kingdom dreams.

He concluded we must be OTHERS focused! Until we have broken HEARTS for broken PEOPLE we can't be like CHRIST.

Then I read a post today concerning "Confronting our culture of consumerism"

So another coincidence or is the Holy Spirit trying to tell me something?!

P.S. Some other takeaways I jotted down:

Volunteer in your school/community

Build some relationships - with pure motives not to gain anything

Go into work early and have a good work ethic (now he is meddling with me)

Don't try to preach at the world - Get into their lives.

2008-04-05T19:52:00.003-05:00

My friend Dave described our fellowship at Vogelweh Assembly of God in his blog. It truly was a place where you were taken out of your comfort zone and had the opportunity to grow.

What is church? Part 1
I recently got back in contact with some friends from our previous church–it was a small church of Air Force and Army families in Kaiserslautern, Germany. My family loved that church, and I’ll tell you why. Thanks to the fact we were a bunch of Americans in Germany, and through a great pastor (and family!), we lived out a real “fellowship of believers.” This family provided a great example of how church is supposed to be, and we have missed that family ever since.

We worshiped together, learned together, and grew in our walks by meeting twice a week at the base chapel. But more importantly, we ate together, talked together, traveled together, cried together, and rejoiced together. Each of us had our own spiritual gifts and talents, which were encouraged and nurtured by the pastor and his wife. Sometimes we were aware of and already comfortable with our gifts–sometimes our gifts were recognized by others who then pushed us to grow, sometimes in ways that stretched us. In each case, it was a spirit of love and love of Christ that allowed us to function as a church and community.

Most of these people, being in the military, have moved on–but we still talk, sometimes meet, and continue to live out the gifts that were grown in that church. Many of us have brought our gifts to other communities, and have spread the love of Christ around the world. For Rebecca and I, it was the closest thing we’ve had to “church” in all of our travels.

Next time, I’ll talk about our future plans for community…

I miss those relationships. Phone calls and e-mails are not the same. Treasure your friends while they are near! Push past the chit chat and get to know them, share hurts, pray for one another, sharpen each other, and provoke one another to press in to Christ. It will hurt when you part ways but it's worth it.

Just a stupid video from vacation in 2005

2008-04-02T18:11:00.001-05:00

My father's eulogy

2008-04-01T22:15:00.006-05:00

I came across this in my old Dake's bible. Handwritten notes from which I read one morning in August 1996:

On Sunday morning my father passed on from this place to a better place. That same morning I was singing I must tell Jesus which conveys that in our distress Jesus will kindly help us. I shared with the congregation how Christ has many times been my source of strength and comfort. Of how we must share our burdens with Him. Those words meant to comfort others would soon be a source of comfort to me. I can't help but believe that my Heavenly Father was preparing my heart for what was to come that day.

On Sunday morning my father did not wake up in a mansion. He spent the fruit of his labor storing up treasures where moth and rust do not corrupt. He supported several ministries and often would help those less fortunate that himself. Although he did not wake up in a mansion, I do believe that Jesus prepared him a place that far exceeds anything this world's treasures can buy.

My father's focus was on Heaven. Often when talking with him our conversation would drift to the condition of the heart - mainly my spiritual walk. He encouraged me to keep my focus on Christ. He longed for the day that he would enter into Heaven. He wanted others to share that hope also.

After my mother's passing he shared with me that if he ever had a similar trajedy he just wanted me to hold his hand. On Sunday morning I couldn't be there to do that but someone greater than I held his hand. Our precious Lord, the author and finisher of our faith.

I miss him!

Tired of being Christianish

2008-03-31T21:58:00.002-05:00

Tonight I started an online/virtual discipleship study. As part of it I joined a conference call of some young people that want to change their worlds. A group called BAHM - Bikers Against Human Trafficking (http://www.freewebs.com/baht/) was hosting the call. Basically, it was some young people that were on a world-wide mission adventure over a year called the World Race (http://www.theworldrace.org/) that came face to face with human trafficking and felt led to do something about it. So they did a bike ride to raise awareness and funds to combat this.

Several of these people are leaving their careers and comfortable futures to make a difference in their world. To advance the kingdom. Wow! That challenges me.

I am unsure of what God has for me. I just want to get closer and willing to be a little radical for Him. So I have started on an on-line study as I mentioned to draw closer and still so I can start hearing His voice clearly again. If you are interested check it out at http://www.sethbarnes.com/index.asp?filename=starting-the-warriors-journal-study&bookmark=true#comments

Well I better quit blogging and get to reading my devotion. I am stolked. Just hope I endure better than the running I did with my son tonight. I'll have to post about that tomorrow.

What Have I Become?

2008-03-29T10:19:00.002-05:00

Last night on my way to Wal-Mart to buy my son some $50 Wii game, I stopped to return a video at McDonalds (now that is weird). When I was finished a lady walked up to me and asked if she could have $12 to get her and her family home. Her husband and two little kids were with her. With little hesitation I said "no." I then got in the van and was put out that the lady asked for money. I mean a taxi cab fare. Come on get more original than that. Anyway I drove on to the Wal-Mart parking lot.

Later that night I decided to do devotions during some games. I read in Acts. How the disciples could not help but share the gospel, how they ministered with boldness. How they saw a lame man begging for money and then gave him what he really needed. I thought about this family. I prayed for them and then asked Christ to change my heart. Not one where I foolishly give money but maybe I could have offered to call the cab and pay for it, a meal, or some compassion. Imagine if I was spirit-led and spoke to their root problem or plugged them in with a local church that would help them get on their feet. My heart is still heavy for those two young kids and their parents. I hope some Christian helped them.

WHY CAN"T I BLOG LIKE THIS

2008-02-01T21:52:00.001-06:00

Sir Francis Drake wrote this prayer in 1577:

Disturb us, Lord, when
We are too pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when
with the abundance of things we possess
We have lost our thirst
For the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life,
We have ceased to dream of eternity
And in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision
Of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly,
To venture on wilder seas
Where storms will show Your mastery;
Where losing sight of land,
We shall find the stars.

We ask you to push back
The horizons of our hopes;
And to push back the future
In strength, courage, hope, and love.

This we ask in the name of our Captain,
Who is Jesus Christ.

How Long Will You Simple Ones Love Your Simple Ways

2008-02-01T20:01:00.000-06:00

Well I am sticking to my one hour commitment. Bad thing is I do them at the end of the day. So my cousin calls out of the blue and says he will be here for a lock-in. So I am doing my devotions right after this post. Today was a good day and I enjoyed the devotion last night. I love the Discipleship Creed that someone wrote. Making new habits. Hoping to find something profound. Looking at my journal I would have to sum it up like so:

Day 1 - 31 January 2008. A verse screamed out at me. Proverbs 1:22 "How long will you simple ones love your simple ways?" OUCH. That screamed volumes to me. My answer is "NO MORE!"

Day 2 - Okay this could get long so I will keep it short. I realized that I need to clean up my mouth. Actually my heart. I don't like what comes out of my mouth so I need to clean up the source.

New Beginnings

2008-01-31T22:52:00.001-06:00

I am excited today. Not because of some great sermon or some mighty man (or woman) of God laying on of hands but because I started a class in church. It is called Discipleship. And it is blessing me. Basically, you commit to an hour of prayer, bible reading, journaling, and devotion. I am just on my second day but a feel a peace like I have not felt in a long time.

I plan to write more about my journey of retuning to my first love in the days ahead. I am excited about life changes coming my way in 2008 - a year of new beginnings!

My favorite get away with her!

2007-09-22T10:40:00.002-05:00

LUCERNE SWITZERLAND

We only went to a few places by ourselves during our two tours in Germany. One weekend we took the old beater - a 1990 7 series BMW - 4-5 hours south, to lovely Switzerland. We went to lake Lucerne. It was a blast. I wish we would have went once a year. Just being in a place with a beautiful blue lake, mountains, and her. But alas I did not occupy the time and now I have some beautiful red lakes, red dirt, and some hills down in southeastern Oklahoma that we natives call mountains.

On the way down the beater heated up in a stau (traffic jam), so I had to pull of and let the beast get some water.

We used wonderful mapquest to navigate but oh the trips would have involved less yelling, if I would have invested in GPS!

We arrived late, and all was forgiven. Our mountain view was a view of other hotels (always go with lake view especially if they are more expensive). But we were positive, we were going to have a good time because lodging in Switzerland is not cheap.

I had to take some pictures before we went to bed. She looks marvelous!

The next day we had a blast! We caught a boat and road across the lake to the train that would take us up the mountain. Can you believe I suggested we drive to the train and save the money? I guess I was not thinking - romantic trip!!! Duh.

We road up the mountain in this..Doesn't it look like the train on Mr. Rogers? That was the one ahead of us.

So we get up the mountain. Took a bunch of pictures. A bunch because we just bought a digital camera...welcome to the new century.

I had this bright idea to stop at one station down the mountain and walk to the next. It was a long walk but fun.

We then spent the evening walking around the town of Lucerne. It was awesome. I miss having beautiful places that close.

Judy loves this picture.

2007-08-26T18:19:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures we took in Paris. We did a one day trip to Paris. All we really saw that time was the Eiffel tower and ate at Planet Holywood. Big mistake. I wanted to see Notre Dame again before I moved back to Oklahoma. I have such a hard life.