Turning it in

Are you making a difference?

So, if all the Christians of the world came together and did like Jesus, that is, serving and not condemning…would the world even “want” to persecute us? Shouldn’t we be so “Christian” that the world would say “if we isolated them and killed them all off, who would provide the charity, love the unloved, help us in time of need?” I feel like that if things should be thought all the way through, we should be an asset to have around.

On to personal things..

As I worked in the secular realm (like everyone else) and now as I work in a predominately Christian environment, I see that there were a lot of NON believers what were considerably more considerate than some of the believers that I work with…it really makes me wonder more about true belief. In particular MY beliefs. If I believe, where is the transformation? Isn’t that what should happen? I used to always quote a verse that states,

“ 9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard?
       When will you get up from your sleep?

 10 A little sleep, a little slumber,
       a little folding of the hands to rest-

 11 and poverty will come on you like a bandit
       and scarcity like an armed man.

 It repeats it again later in proverbs:

 32 I applied my heart to what I observed
       and learned a lesson from what I saw:

 33 A little sleep, a little slumber,
       a little folding of the hands to rest-

 34 and poverty will come on you like a bandit
       and scarcity like an armed man. ^[a]

And it really makes me curious…have I become lazy? Yes, I have.

The other night as my wife and I were having a discussion and the question came up, “What happened to the man that TRIED to be a better father instead of resolving to ‘this is who I am’?”

Obviously, it was insulting at first. But, wow what an accurate question. All these revelations, all this frustration, all this lack of the fruit of the Spirit…It’s got to be pointing to something. Yes, I long for my brothers to hold my feet to the fire. But, if I can only do it with accountability, is that a form of pride or idolatry? One of my children recently referenced in one of their blog posts that it’s where we turn when we have the struggles that matters.

When I was a new believer, when I would get down or upset, I would throw on some of my favorite secular music and get lost in my headphones. It was soon afterward that God convicted me to lose those CDs. That I was taking my issues to the wrong place. Now, it appears that my support group is something that God has removed from me….as I would take my troubles to them…

I am orphaned. But, there is a Father that is waiting for me to turn to Him. I have been a poor man’s version of a prodigal son. I don’t have an inheritance to blow…but, I have constantly sought my own outlets for my needs or fulfillment.

It must be time…it’s not going to get much clearer I guess. I just have to figure out how.

Lumber Yard

God has used quite a few things to reveal (again) something that my old accountability partners and I used to hold each other to. That if we had a problem with somebody, it was usually US that had the problem to resolve in ourselves.

We would approach each other for each others good. Not our own. If I had a problem with someone being a certain way that offended me...that I would need to evaluate why I had a problem with it and if it needed to be addressed, it was for the offenders true benefit. Not our own benefit in someway.

That's hard...when I had people to help me it got easier to do those things in love. However, without those precious friends to help me, I have back slidden something fierce.

God said that we should remove the Lowe's Lumber Yard out of our own eye before you take the spec out of another's. Emphasis mine. But isn't it so true that we can identify the microscopic issues that others are in but ignore the quagmire of our own problems or even be blind to them.

It's been a good day of "trouble" to remind me of this.

Anyone have a forklift?

Soccer FUN!!!

Have you heard of Coerver's 531 tournament? It's a blast we spent the entire day after Thanksgiving in it. I took Christian to play in the U13 and Joshua played in the U9. The tournament progresses like this:

When you're scheduled to play a team you meet them on the 5v5 field and play. Then, immediately when that is finished you move to the 3v3 field and play. When that's over you meet at the pit where the team faces off in 1v1. The pit is a small little walled off area with small goals. It's intense to watch. It's like watching 2 warriors fight to the death...they battle for 60 seconds, then the next 2 face off..and so on until all 6 of the team have met. So, at the beginning of the tournament you create your 1v1 lineups where none can be the same order. The total of the wins determines the team that wins...you get 3 points for each win...for a max of nine in each round.

It's nonstop action with only about 20 minutes between matches..then they do the 5v5,3v3,1v1 to the next team. They played 6 matches...needless to say, they both slept great after that.

Joshua's team was the youngest in the tournament since they were playing up to U9 and they came in 4th place...Christian's team took 3rd in their division.

It's insane fun and the kids love it.

Joshua got to play with keepers for the first time ever. He was thrilled that he scored a few goals on a keeper. Then, he got to play keeper for the 1st time ever...he said, "I don't like that! I stink!" He was smiling the whole time though. I included a picture of him in goalie garb.

New picture

How do you like the new picture?? I thought I'd play around with it.

News...

Surely, most anyone that would read this has already read from my wife that we lost our baby to a miscarriage. But, I felt that it would be appropriate that I blog about it too.

This miscarriage has been totally different than the last one. However, some things are the same:
Still sad
Wonder why
Worried for my wife
Worried for our future having more kids

The things that are different:
I am more quiet
I feel judgement
I am reflective on other things due to it
Not as devastated
Disappointed that I shared the news we were pregnant with friends and family.
Dreading the pity that comes with the news of the loss.
Realization how not-in-control we are of things but how Sovereign God is.
I feel sad for my kids but at the same time...kinda glad that they go through this and we are there for any questions or to pray with them..

I read in ecclesiastes last night how much - better it was for those never born. While it may not directly relate, I did find some comfort in knowing that we'd never have to worry about him/her in anything..but especially salvation. Right before that was especially interesting. It stated that EVERYTHING will be beautiful in it's time...even this.

I've received godly council from a couple of friends and land on this; God's ways are not our ways. Thank God for that.

Other Stuff

Mal's birthday was this past weekend. I truly love having a sweet precious little girl amongst all the rowdy obnoxious boys. Don't get me wrong...I love the boys too...But, having this little girl smack dab in the middle of them is pretty special.

I would say that Mal is the smartest just-turned-3 I have ever encountered. She's got a beautiful smile, cute dimples, and manners that match a southern bell...She's amazing>

Happy birthday Bird!!

Clarification on previous post

My wife and I discussed the wording on the previous post in regards to the music ministry. It’s a hard thing to try to type out and convey…I am going to try to clarify what it’s supposed to mean by telling you what it DOESN’T mean and what it DOES mean:

It doesn’t mean :

1.      that I have all the answers or even think I do for MM.

2.      that anything the MM team does or anyone on the team is bad or no good.

3.      that the ideas I had would even work.

It does mean:

1.      That I think the music could be considerably better

2.      That I think I can help that in some way

3.      That I think that catering to people in worship is absurd regardless of the political battles etc.

The crux of the post was to simply state that I am struggling with it all and it is a frustration for me and takes up thought processes, makes hair gray, adds wrinkles to my forehead…etc.

I hope that helps…

Hard times - examples

There have been a string of hard times in the household and it's been weighing heavily on me. I don't have a lot of places to turn with such things since we've moved to Colorado. My closest friends that I would normally share the dismal news with are back in Arkansas.

Here are 2 examples-

I have been amazed at the differences between Ar and Co. I thought we would come to new experiences, wisdom beyond measure, and be introduced to awe inspiring ideas through churches and ministry. It has been none of that. In fact, quite the opposite. One of the great things of the churches from the south are that the older generation pour out so much wisdom. Here, it appears they are viewed as a hurdle or something to accommodate. We actually had a conversation when choosing songs to play for worship where they counted the hymns that we had played to ensure they were happy. I don't know if the older generation would be pleased to know this. Or, maybe that's what they want..... I don't know. It seems like, that of all people, they would understand worship is not about them (or us)...

My wife and I had a great discussion on how to handle issues with the big kids and we discussed what would be the best for the kids and the stage of life they are in....how we don't want to control every aspect of their lives and we have to let them make mistakes.. ....but, that's a big change for me. I just want them to always get it right...never get hurt...be the hero...be the example.

These 2 examples are just more of the same stresses or problems that I have complained abou t in the past...just more things that are outside of my control that I think I should control. Things that I have to let go of. I read Psalms 146 this morning and it spoke to me about this difficult stage that I am going through. "Happy is the man whose help is the Lord." Is the paraphrasing... I know that I don't have control and the King of heaven is in control... He gave me a good word this morning..

So, in trying to figure out how the Psalm applies to my life...

The worship team that I am part of - I was trying to help and make it better...but that's not happening. Again, I am trying to control something outside my control or influence that doesn't want or necessarily even need my help. They are happy with where they are and think that what and how they do things is fine. (Exactly the same mindset I struggle with and am blogging about! Lol) They have the experience of understanding the reactions and dislikes of the congregation and pastor. So, why do I feel the need to interfere? Why should I feel angst over dumb issues like that and try to make changes to something that doesn't matter to anyone anyway. I probably need to move on and let this one not add to the stresses in my life. That's a great help to know that it really doesn't matter in the grand and eternal scheme of things. I need to pray about this more but, at least I know that I don't have to worry about it at all if I choose not to...

My "kids are growing" issues - they are needing the failures and successes from their own hand to help them grow but I struggle with letting them fail. This one is much more complicated..obviously quitting is not an option like it could be with the music ministry. This IS what my life is right now. I need to pray for the patience and knowing when to do what... That's where I can be happy in the help the Lord provides. They're His anyway, He loves them more so I will just pray that He guide me and give me strength..



Sounds easy...

I doubt this reads as I intend it to...

Godly and sagely advice desired!

Some old 3v3 action I ran across...

Here's a pretty exciting game from a few years ago. It was in Tulsa...these guys always put up a good fight. Worth watching!! Kevin Curtis did a good job assembling the team and these are some of Christian's good ol' soccer buddies..Coady, Logan, Kevin, and Trevor...Man, those were fun times!

What a wife...

My wife:

She keeps the house as clean as I want it

She takes care and trains the best kids in the world

She wakes up every morning and prepares a breakfast for me

She does thousands of little things that shows that “I’m first” to her

 

She does all this and more…even when she doesn’t want to.

Even when I:

Forget to show her that she’s first to me

Totally take her for granted

Mess up the house then get upset about it being messy

Leave all the cabinet doors open that I use

Walk around mopey

Leave projects at 50%

Etc.

Etc.

Etc.

 

She’s amazing. She’s the real deal.

 

Thank you, Lord, for my wife.

Weekend woes

This weekend was a 3 day weekend for me. I took Friday as a vacation day and the 2 oldest women of the house went out to do girly things. It snowed that day..so that was reason enough for the kids to get excited…they played in it in the morning but, by noon it was pretty much gone. Then we played soccer in the street while the babies napped and Mayf sat in the doorway listening for them. It was a good day.

 

Saturday was also a good day…

 

Then, Sunday. Most of Sunday was good. We played a little soccer in the street, went to church, ate a great lunch…then the wrath of “the dad” was activated. It all happened around dinner time. The wife wanted to have a picture made of the family. She came down to ask (very nicely I might add), but for some reason it rung of pushiness…So, as I got the camera equipment ready and got dressed…I noticed that nobody else was ready. It was turning dark quickly out and seeing how it seemed that I was the only one that she talked to, that was frustrating. Then, she turns Z boy loose in the back yard. Of course, he’s going to think it’s play time. Whenever some tries to keep him from getting dirty or help him with something…immediate tears. That’s going to look great in the picture. Not to mention, the back yard is a total mess. Toys strewn everywhere. I have everyone jump on getting them picked up. In the background I hear LB getting on the boys for how much dog poop is in the yard…although at the time, it didn’t compute. My wife comes out and acts aggravated with me since I am not happy with Z boy being in tears. Then says, “we’re ready”…and I say, “really?” there are only 6 kids here… Just then, JD comes running out of the house with a poop catching sack and JM walks around the corner with the pooper scooper. That’s when it finally hits. I notice someone has scraped fresh dog poo on one of the stairs leading INTO the house and everyone still has their shoes on. I ask JD if he went into the house with his shoes on even though he knew he had dog poo on them. “Yes.” Was the reply… I have got to give him credit for having the guts to tell the truth… “ARRRRGGGHHH” says I.

 

Well, needless to say, 1 little boy was in huge trouble for tracking dog poo…they had to clean the entire family room floor and stairs…(He had to go get something out of his room)…1 little girl was in trouble for redirecting the boys when we were trying to get a picture made. It was MAYHEM. Unfortunately, that’s only the half of it and this usually happens to me when I get upset…I can recall a bajillion things that I am frustrated with at that very instant. So, when the eruption happens, it happens about everything. I was able to recall balls that were laying in certain places for weeks that I had wondered, “why is that ball there”… socks that should have been in the dirty clothes jammed in the box that holds the shoes. Etc. etc. etc. etc.

 

So, nobody was off the hook…in about 30 minutes, I had ranted, tears had flowed and the entire house was spotless and everything put away.  30 minutes…yet for weeks had remained undone. I CAN’T be the ONLY one that sees what needs to be done. I am the WORSE one ever in regards to taking care of stuff…yet, like even now I am wondering why the track that the sliding glass door runs is so dirty…yet will remain untouched, forever, until I rant about it…

 

It’s something that I want to stop, but can’t. Ranting, I wonder if there is a 12 step program for getting rid of it. It’s worse than drugs, I bet.

What do we do?

I was reading an article yesterday online from our local newspaper. The article was in reference to putting up a Jewish Menorah to celebrate the Jewish holiday. It caused a stir… as I read the comments it was fairly sad. Most of the comments were something like, “Separation of church and state”.  

 

There were quite a few amendments that Colorado voted on during the election… 1 was the definition of life as the moment of conception…another was increasing the maximum betting wager in our gambling districts from 1 dollar to 100 dollars. There were quite a few others…but, they were boring dumb amendments ;-) … To be expected with the times and the election results, it appears that life is unimportant. So, the bill regarding life was handily defeated. The betting bill is the ONLY one that passed.

 

These things (among a zillion others) really get me thinking about what’s gone wrong in the world today. I think I have an answer. Well, the answer is to have everyone get right with God…but, that’ll be God’s doing. My solution is much more simple (in words). It’s our kids and our marriages.  Yep, that’s GOT to be it. I referenced a song a few blog posts ago that talked about Christians doing such a good job blending in with the world that non believers can’t tell a difference. I don’t know about you, but, I consider that VERY BAD. There should be a difference. So, back to my “solution”. Let’s take a decade and focus on us. Jesus said something very profound, before you judge someone get the Home Depot Lumber Yard out of your own eye. (Ok, that was paraphrased..)

 

Have you ever noticed that it’s easy to spot other peoples sin? And, we, as Christians are the most guilty of it. We are constantly throwing up our hands with pointed fingers outside the church on a multitude of issues. I am not saying that we are wrong…but, how we go about it is wrong. It has to do with credibility. One of the biggest arguments from non believers are that Christians are hypocrites. Yep… We are. So, just a thought, when was the last time you took action on a hypocrites advice? Now, I know that we can’t be perfect. But, there are some very BIG things that we can correct that will get the world’s attention.  Imagine this… Christian marriage divorce rate 2%.. Christian kids that are obedient, respectful, helpful, thoughtful, not pregnant, not looking to get someone pregnant, dresses appropriately, (insert the beatitudes here!).

 

What are the facts though? Christian divorce rate (last stat I received) is almost identical to non believers. Teen pregnancies among Christian families..almost identical. I challenge you to place a non-believer next to a believer and see if you can “physically” tell the difference. Should you be able to?  What is holy? What is set apart?

 

I think there is a very strong fallacy in how people interpret the scripture that states “be in the world, not of it”. It’s soooo taken out of context. I think it should be like when people cook beans. Usually, they add bacon or something and that bacon never ceases to be bacon, but, the bacon taste runs through the entire batch of beans. It’s usually quite the opposite though and there are even warnings in scripture that back that up. A little leaven spoils the whole batch, bad company corrupts good character. So, instead of the Christian being the bacon, usually, it’s the sin or non believer…

 

So, what do we do?

 

Well, I could rant about this forever so I’ll stop now…

What is work?

What is our work? What is the toil that we put our hands to as Solomon describes? Is it just our jobs? Is that what we are to find our joy in? Or, is it something much larger?

What do you think?

I think my job is defined later in scripture when it is said that "in all things work as unto the Lord and not men". In thinking about that everything would be work, right? Being a husband, dad, employee, friend, follower of Christ, shopper, repairman, neighbor, enemy, son, etc...

Do I always find joy in all those things? Nope. I pray that I will... I imagine that if I did I'd be a lot more useful to God...

Baby a comin'

We are all excited! Found out Sunday that my wife is preggers!! I have to admit that there is also a little fear sprinkled in there. I just pray that I won't take this for granted and enjoy it all.

The job is going well.

We have movie nite this coming Saturday.

Indoor soccer has kicked off and we are playing in a league with teenage boys. We lost our first one 5-3.. Not bad for only coming up to their shoulders.

Tryimg to get in shape by using the treadmill...that thing makes me sick. When I get off it feels like I am dizzy or still moving or something. Not sure about that thing at all!

Michael Novak

I just attended a mini conference with Michael Novak. He’s an accomplished author, theologian, etc. He recently published a book, “No One Sees God”….

 

Here are some quotes and paraphrases:

“Christians tend to leap to perfection too quickly”

“The red thread that runs through the Bible is – Liberty”

“The creation should be grateful to be created”

Jesus did not have many followers, most turned away from Him - pp

Judaism and Christianity are responsible for ground breaking concepts such as compassion.

Quoted Lincoln, He feared the “Silent Artillery of time” – in regards to losing values.

                1^st generation were viewed as heros

                2^nd generation tried to live up to it

                3^rd generation was tired of hearing about it

Lincoln Douglas debates were actually all about “choice”… Novak likened slavery  to abortion of the current day.

Novus Ordo Seclorum – New order of the ages – on every dollar bill – represents the 3 sides of society. Polictical – economic – and the uncapped pyramid as the moral/cultural dimension

 

My favorite in regards to capitalism was very simply – “Humble and forgotten things that serve the common good are of the greatest value”

 

I plan on buying and actually reading that book.

 

 

My feelings on the presidential election.

Rats.

Change can have 2 directions – Better or worse. His origin and true intent can only come to light in action now.

 

However, I think that, unlike the seemingly overwhelming dis-ownership of Bush by the democrats that we need to step up and accept him as our leader. By “we” I mean believers.

 

Here’s my take on why he won:

Everyone is wanting things to be easy, their way and to their advantage. If I had a choice, I would probably choose those things as well. However, it seems that more and more people are wanting to be taken care of. They want their cake and eat it too. They want to have frivolous, pleasure seeking encounters and not have the responsibility of the privilege. They want to marry whatever they want and have everyone support it. They want to hear words that tickle their ears and feed their egos. We are a selfish nation. I know there is scripture that discusses this very thing. There is no doubt that Barrack was a more charismatic and polished speaker. Here’s the separation for me…and it’s proof that we are becoming a more feminized nation. It didn’t matter “what” the candidates said…but, “how” they said it.

 

Honestly, I think the election was lose/lose. Neither primary candidate should have even been there. Where the heck is Ross Perot when you need him! ;-)

Lessons

Just when I think I've got it figured out...whammo, lesson from God. ;-)

So, if you're a reader of my blog you may recall that I had water heater issues. Here's a summary:
Pilot light keeps going out - cold water.
CT recommends warranty
Free replacement part and additional parts
Replace part
Works for a month straight
Praising the Lord about it - get in the shower - cold
Distress
Call plumbing company
Guy says no air and overuse.
Take off door to not restrict air - keep a closer eye on use
Problems increase
Call plumbing company - they send him back out
Plumber calls maker of water heater with faulty info and gets our warranty cancelled and insists it's overuse
He leaves, I call water heater company to work it out
They refuse - but the lady says, sounds like the screen is dirty
I clean screen
Water heater has been on for a week.

The lesson is this. When you don't know about something, don't presume you do. Originally, I thought it was the part they sent out first. Having it work for a month seemed to reinforce that theory. In recalling what the water heater company initially stated, I was supposed to vacuum something out. I just presumed to understand that. I just cleaned out around the bottom...not touching the screen.

I think it's more evidence that God exists. This type of problem is the reverse of how I was feeling toward others. In the frustrations and experiences from previous blog posts, you may be able to tell that. God does love me for He chastises whom He loves. It's a wonderful life lesson. Thank you Lord.

Colorado Rapids and 2 Tagg boyz

My boys got to experience a professional soccer game in a whole new light. They escorted the players on the field!! It was extremely exciting. The Rapids were playing Real Salt Lake. It ended in a 1-1 tie....but the boys didn't care, they were in a daze the whole game from the experience. They each received a youth jersey, shorts, a ball, scarf and walking on the field standing with the players through the star spangled banner.

See if you can spot the boys...they are wearing light blue:



JD did not take off his jersey for 3 days!!

A dream

I don't put a lot of stock in dreams. I have some pretty goofy ones that don't make a lot of sense. However, this dream really got my attention.



I was on a plane or in a waiting room and we were all waiting to see Jesus. As I walked in I was overcome with shame and couldn't really even look at Him. He walked around filling peoples glass with a drink of some sort. As I held up my glass, He poured a few drops and that was all. I immediately started sobbing.



There were other things, but I haven't been able to stop thinking about the part I just wrote.



It has revealed a lot to me about my own spiritual life. What if it were you? How are things going in your spiritual walk? If you were in a room with Him, would you be overcome with guilt about things that you know you are doing right now? (Or not doing)

How do you make things better?

You can’t…

 

No matter what experiences you’ve had, those in charge are always too proud to change no matter what. There are a few exceptions, very few from all I’ve met or heard about. It’s because we’re dealing with people. And sadly, for the most part, people are difficult to work with due to pride and fear.  The fear part is what I would say would be fear of man. “What would they think of me!!?!?? “  I am absolutely, positively sure I am the same way.

 

It’s SUPER FRUSTRATING…but, I guess it’s life. If you’ve read any of my blog in the past, there are several issues that I think can be better…but, at this point have resolved that people care more about themselves than the institution or  improvement and, as of now (at least for now! ;-) ) I quit trying to impose my improvements or ideas.

 

Time to move on.

 

Now, why would I blog about that? Well, because the revelation came to me that makes this not really a big deal (kinda). See, God would have the same problem with me. But, he is longsuffering, patient and merciful.  I prayed that He would help me be humble and patient.  And, if I am (still) praying about those 2 things, I must not have those 2 traits. So, I am going to try to just overlook anything or any system going on that I “think” could use the “Tagg touch” and just lay it at the feet of Jesus.

 

I would like to say I feel liberated…but, I am still frustrated…hopefully, silently frustrated…and improving. Just do what I can do where I can and try my best.

 

<sigh>

 

Renewing your mind continues

I was talking to my very wise wife about the whole struggle with worldliness and the concept of renewing your mind at a luncheon in Saskatoon. It was a conference for stubborn people. Ok, none of that was true. However, I did ask my wife where she thought I was weak in my Spiritual walk. She was quick to have an answer. Too quick actually. Kind of like she had been thinking about it for years and I finally asked...



Anyway, her answer was sort of a surprise. She said "renewing your mind". She means the constant study of scripture. She also said I relied on my memory too much and my memory is not as good as it used to be. This is what scripture means when it says "faithful are the wounds of a friend".. Or, at least that's what I REMEMBER it says. That was wonderful insight from her. My memory used to be excellent... I survived highschool by my memory...it's full of songs from the 80's...and full of movies that I thought were good...it's also full of the good and bad of growing up.



If a popular song from the 80's pops on, it's amazing how I can recall the words and melody. I think it's that way for most people. There was something critically amazing at that time of my life where everything "stuck". That reminds me of another truth in scripture "teach them the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it." This is in reference to someones bent or preference... But, perhaps there's more to it than meets the eye.



If I had spent time filling my brains with Godly things then, I wonder if that would come to me as easily as every Bon Jovi song?



There are other scritpures that reference "hiding God's word in your heart." That surely means memorization, right?



So, back to renewing. How can something static in your head be constantly renewed? I am reminded of software upgrades. Those are installed on a computer system to go from the ol' 1.0 version to the new and improved 2.0... It's packed with new features and corrections to the old 1.0. It's wonderful!!! However, it usually brings along it's own baggage and problems that haven't been brought to light to it's developers and those issues will be dealt with in a later release. And so on and so on.



So, our mind get's pummeled with new versions everyday and I suppose God's Word is the hot fix service release for our brains and spirit. To correct how that new information intermingles with the old and bring us from conforming with the world to the new improved person we need to be.



Rinse, Lather, Repeat.



Well, I'll let you know how the install of taggdaddy 2.0 is coming along.

I've got it all figured out

Yep, I have arrived. There’s nothing in scripture that I struggle with and the world is not a temptation. I am raising my kids perfectly and everything is blessed that I put my hands to. I correctly discern scripture accurately and authoritatively like I hear Jesus telling me exactly what He meant.

 

Do you ever think that? I am sure that’s the desire of every full blooded believer.  I really want to… but,  obviously I can’t (can anyone really?). In fact, I would have to say that even though I feel the joy of victory over my own soul and salvation…I worry,  I fail, and I really struggle. Don’t get me wrong…I think I can honestly say that I have been severely, catastrophically, phenomenally blessed. Even in the tragedies I look back and see a few building blocks that God has laid down in the construction of my life and building of my character. But, there are those things that just resonate a fear or a doubt or a question. Not often about my faith..but, about things of faith. Things that only conviction seems to speak to. No one can come up to you and say “yes” or “no” to these types of topics. Well, I guess they can, but they are often dismissed as legalistic zealots.

 

Here are some examples:

Fruit of the womb – it’s clear that the Lord considers children a blessing. Is there a directive that we give Him the womb? Is birth control good or bad?

You are what you eat – there are many dangers and unknowns with certain foods and God warns us of those. Is there are requirement that we avoid them or is there freedom to enjoy? Or both?

Sanctification – being set apart. Are we still to be Holy? What is the requirement of Holiness? What does Holiness look like in 2008.

 

While I believe that God is full of good advice to the health of our bones and joy in our lives (among many other things)…We often just pick and choose what we want. Things that we think will benefit us. But there are so many questions. God even says it’s easy…His yoke is easy, His burden is light…but, if we are doing whatever we want to do…what are we laying at the feet of Jesus? What burdens are we casting upon him? The burden of diet coke or water? Or, the burden of being yoked by what to eat and what not to eat?... To wear a costume or give candy or separate yourself from something with the appearance of evil? What is the burden really?

 

I have seen a few of the Ron Bell (or Rod) Nooma videos. This is a guy that is attracting the younger generation with his teachings…one thing that I’ve noticed from that is that he encourages people to be more worldly and get along with the world. It seems that so many totally dismiss being a stumbling block because it’s not their problem. From my observations, most of the folks that disregard what the world, believers or not, think believe that they have it “figured out” or have grown past a faith that has “rules”. The principle argument being justification due to others weaknesses and not knowing who they might cause to stumble. In one of the videos from Bell, he was basically chastising the man telling people they are sinners because nobody wants to hear that. So, we’ve arrived at catering to the emotions of the lost…to their own demise in fear of hurting their feelings.

Well, I am starting to ramble some… but, here are some lyrics to a song that seems appropriate for how I feel about this (specifically the 5^th line from the bottom to the bottom)

What this world needs is not another one hit wonder with an axe to grind
Another two bit politician peddling lies
Another three ring circus society
What this world needs is not another sign waving super saint that's better than you
Another ear pleasing candy man afraid of the truth
Another prophet in an Armani suit

What this world needs is a Savior who will rescue
A Spirit who will lead
A Father who will love them in their time of need
A Savior who will rescue
A Spirit who will lead
A Father who will love
That's what this world needs

What this world needs is for us to care more about the inside than the outside
Have we become so blind that we can't see
God's gotta change her heart before He changes her shirt
What this world needs is for us to stop hiding behind our relevance
Blending in so well that people can't see the difference
And it's the difference that sets the world free

Jesus is our Savior, that's what this world needs
Father's arms around you, that's what this world needs
That's what this world needs

 

The song is by Casting Crowns and is called “What this World Needs” .. the song has a really cool speaking part too..very relevant to this post.

 

Watch this video…the guy that’s talking is an aethiest…. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INttODEPzp0&eurl  found this on a friends blog…good stuff.

 

How's this for sounding ultra cool

Sprained MCL!

 

Yep, I am flirting with professional level injuries! Actually, I was very relieved that it was only that. And, according to the sports med dude, that’s the best one to screw up. I’ll be back to 100% in 4-6 weeks. 100% of slow, out of shapeness. Does that really go together? I guess it does. I’ll be at 100% of the worst shape I have ever been in. Ouch.

 

Another thing I have noticed. I guess it has to do with age but in EVERY flag football game this year I walked away with a mild injury of some sort. The past 3 are:

1.       Jammed finger that I received on catching a long bomb. The thing is here, I caught it correctly. It was just that my body is so NOT in shape that my finger decided that it would be hurt in the normal course of events.

2.       Level 1 hamstring pull – as I got toasted by a lineman that released (yep, a lineman) I pulled up lame. It must have looked like I was one of those guys in pro ball where I pull up short grasping the back of my leg as I got totally violated by the opponent.

3.       Sprained MCL…

Ok, It seems like they are getting steadily more serious, don’t they?

 

Well, I am not ready to give in to old age yet. I’ll suffer through this and remain young for a little longer.

Quote from CS Lewis - Mere Christianity

I am a fairly  abrupt person that is often slave to his immediate emotions. In regards to snappiness, or harshness, or even affection…I am a spur of the moment kind of guy. Scripture says that we should hold our thoughts captive to Christ. Oops. As I was listening to CS Lewis this morning and happened upon this great quote:

 

“Surely what a man does when he is taken of his guard is the best evidence for what sort of man he is, surely what pops out before the man has time to put on  a disguise is the truth.”

 

That split second where we let our sinful nature respond instead of the renewed mind of Christ.

 

It’s difficult for me. Even today, I was being “too direct” with a coworker. I am blessed that another coworker that heard it cared enough to call me on it privately. However, that was the best evidence for what sort of person I am. Earlier in the chapter, CS Lewis was referring to some stories where a boy was transformed into the mask that he wore…I see where he was going with that. I suppose that when we wear that mask that we SHOULD have on enough, that will change our very person. It was surely in reference to renewing your mind…and being transformed, not conformed to this world.

 

Oh well, I am sure this will only make sense to me. But, it’s my thought of the day!

JDs BDay

JD turns 6 today. It seems like he was just born. I remember him having the bridge of his nose stuck on my wifes pelvic bone (he's always seemed to look the wrong way when you want him looking a particular direction) and finally arriving looking as though he had been in a boxing match. He had 2 black eyes and they were a tad bit swollen. I recall his arms being real long and his hands were thick and strong especially for a baby.

Cool things about JD
He smiles....a LOT
He loves to punch and he punches hard!
He's tough as nails.
He loves his momma
He's a very good soccer player
He's quick to want to make wrongs right
He has a great sense of humor
His hands are always sweaty
His hands are still large and meaty.
He loves showing off his muscles
He loves climbing on my back

There are soooo many more cool things about him, but, I'll stop here.

Happy birthday JD...I love you and thank God for you!

Dad JUST IN!!! Here is the recap of the day in photo view

Here are some videos taken today:

Upcoming

I am going to start taking classes and perhaps finish up my degree. My wife and I discussed majors and stuff and we landed on doing what I can do the fastest and get it knocked out. After that I think I want to shoot for a music degree as well. They have them that specialize in worship leadership...that would be very interesting. The classes really study a lot of the history of worship.

My little soccer boys get to walk the rapids on to the field on Oct 25. That will be awesome! I'll try to get tons of pictures of that and post them.

My sister started a blog. It's springsdillards.blogspot.com

Job sucks - but, one of my peers bought me a very encouraging book. It came about after one day when I just was about to explode. Very, very thoughtful.

JD's birthday is Thursday!! Man he's getting big.

Babyest is blabbering like crazy. But, the only word I have heard him say without being prompted is "bubbles"....

Enlighten me

Any advice on how to deal with someone that thinks they have experienced everything and base their decision making on those “experiences”… and it’s retarded? Now me on the other hand, I only give good advice! ;-)

Things I've learned recently (or again)

I really, really love my wife. She is the most giving, sweet, God fearing woman I think has ever existed.

 

I really enjoy Colorado weather.

 

My kids are the best ever. My girls are amazingly talented and aware of things that need to happen (they get that from their mom). My boys are little lightning bolts. Anxious to excel at whatever they are attempting to do.

 

My pride is an amazing crippler. However, knowing it and learning from it, I am starting to understand what it means to rely on God.  Was that prideful to say? ;-)

 

My job is just a job – there is nothing in it that I can take to add significance to my life except what God commands us to do. If I am taking things from work and making them significant in my life, please see the paragraph right above this one.

 

I love playing music. Whether the drums or guitar or whatever. I like it more when my kids sing while I play and my daughters play piano or keyboard or drums.

 

I miss taking photos. Not for money…(although that would be nice..we definitely need it) but, just capturing the memories and keeping everyone up to date, etc. with them.

 

I am out of shape beyond belief. I have been riding my bike to work for the last couple of weeks and it’s helped a bunch…but, it’s only 2 miles so it’s not enough aerobically to really do much. I am playing flag football and I really see how slow I am getting. Plays that I would have easily made 2 years ago are a sweet memory now. I am not giving up though!

 

IPODs are the best invention – if not the best…one of the best….ok, they are pretty convenient. I am happy with mine. Thanks kids!!

 

Teenagers are sweet, great, wonderful people. Sometimes, a little confused, but wonderful nonetheless. Luv ya Meg and Lane.

 

I once was lost…but now I am found. Really… ask me about it sometime. I’ll be happy to explain.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interesting saying

"We reproduce who we are not who we want to be."

We can not teach what we don't know. Not knowing Greek, could I possibly teach my kids accurate Greek?

I am in a conference and hearing some great stuff. I'll see if I can expound later...

Weird things

Isn't it funny how when you plan things out in your head those things go so smoothly. But, when you act them out they rarely go as you planned. I read a quote one time that went something like, "planning is a waste of time, but absolutely necessary." I really butchered that, but I only recall the essence of it. If you don't plan you plan to fail, if you do plan you waste your time...but you're more prepared for the changes you will surely have to make from your plan.

So many time I have planned out the best soccer practices..those are usually the most miserable. However, I am able to make adjustments with the things that we are struggling with. I don't really hafta worry about the content. I know what I want to accomplish, I just have to change the how...if I didn't plan, I wouldn't be prepared for what or how.

Different topic;
The water heater dude charged us 125 to tell us the furnace needs more air and we are overusing it. Since we've left the door open the water heater has stayed on. We'll see....

Burnin'

Ok, my minds on fire. I just got done having lunch with my pastor and we were discussing a plethora of things and we got on the topic of outreach and what his heart was for that. My mind started racing and I wanted to post these ideas to keep them fresh and memorable. Some may be stupid…those were probably the pastor’s idea ;0) lol

 

Idea 1. – Free movie night at the church.

Idea 2. – Ties into idea 1, have a mini church service prior to the movie – grow that to a full worship service with small groups/accountability,etc.

Idea 3. – Hot Cocoa ministry – go to the people with hot cocoa just to warm them with the love of Jesus. (Maybe even put that on the cups that will get thrown away…but, who knows who it might reach)

Idea 4. – Fish and Chips music and comedy – dinner and music/comedy for a small fee to cover some of the food…but have local talent or shipped in comics with dinner…small sermonette in front.

Idea 5. – Free daycare for single moms/dads. -

Idea 6. – Free eldercare – Sound impossible?

Idea 7. – Free hospital – All things are possible with God

Idea 8. – promote\support other churches outreaches i.e. Hands of the carpenter. – with time/money/prayer/love…

Idea 9. – Mom’s wife ministry – Help for moms and raising kids.

Idea 10 – Just for Men – Being a dad and raising kids, being a good husband,

 

Start Saturday night service with the movie. Advertise on the billboard, let God do the rest.

                Need CCLI information on playing the movies

                Sing a few songs – modern, loud and in touch OR!!! How about a couple of music videos or inspirational videos too. (When I was a kid and we went to a movie..there was always a cartoon…like that)

                Small sermonette FULL of truth and BOLD

                Snacks/Food - FREE

                Cleanup

                Setup

                Music ministry

                Teaching

                Flyers / ads

                Prayer from the body

                Rules and guidelines for attendees –

                                No cussing.        

                                No outside food or drink.

                                Be kind to each other.

 

 

Meet the lost people’s needs..take care of our own people… Love everybody. Tough love, soft love…real love.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weekend, waterheaters...wow!

We had a tremendously busy/fun weekend. It started off with a Rockies Baseball game on Friday. My office gave me 11 free tickets to take all my kids and there were about 800 tickets that CCU handed out total. I also received a phone call from my mother that they drove up from Texas and would be at my house around 3:00. That’s good news. So, we left LB, and the 2 littlest with Grandma since she didn’t want to go to the game. Grandpa went with the rest of us. While we were gone Grandma baked some eggrolls. I was skeptical but they were delicious as usual. Not as good as fried, but still delicious!!  Saturday morning we had 3 back to back soccer games. JD’s team lost, CT’s team tied, and JM’s team won. We saw the full spectrum of soccer finishes. Saturday night we went to my aunts to eat and have birthday cake for my mom and sister since it Friday was their birthday. Very good food! When we got home, put the littles to bed then Meg and I practiced the worship songs for Sunday. Sunday we went to church, watched football, mowed the back yard, sealed around the vents and other misc openings in the roof since we had that leak the last time it rained, replaced some light bulbs, had date night with the wife, threw the football around a little, played a little trade wars and had a really good talk with our oldest daughter that went until 11 pm. 

 

Phew.

 

To top it all off, a weird thing happened:

I was in the bathroom washing my hands and my mind went back to when we had water heater problems and how God had saved us from the ridiculous charges that the plumber wanted to charge to replace the part. A quick recap, my son had asked about warranty and it turned out that the water heater was still covered by the warranty and we got the parts for free! – it went from an estimated charge of 600 dollars to 0. I replaced the part and the water heater was working great. Fast forward to now – as I was saying I was washing my hands and thanking God for saving us from that. I turned on the shower to find that the water wasn’t getting hot. It was almost time for church so I just jumped into a cold shower. As we checked the water heater we found that it is down again. I am going to call that company again…but, found it very strange that even as I was worshipping in thanks for saving us from that, the problem resurfaced. I know many people think that God doesn’t interact with us at the little things level but, I disagree. There are many scriptures that refers to His intimacy with us. In light of that, it makes me wonder what will become of this…and I am amazed at the coincidence in the timing of it all.

 

Not related:

In a study I am doing, the book stated that God doesn’t get angry with us anymore (since we have Jesus). I don’t know what to think about that. My pastor made some excellent points about discipline v. anger… but, I really have to research this. Any thoughts?

Inspired by my wife's blog

I just read my wifes posting here. That's why I know God blessed me. "To find a wife is a good thing." I have a doozie and she's good lookin' to boot. ;-)

We have shared the same word from the Lord on this matter and I'd like to add a little more about some of the positives I have seen in our lives due to this one-ness.

I know that most people think we're freaky and over the top on all this "religious jazz". But, God has been very good to confirm what He's told us. Here's one example of SOOO many.

We were sitting at the dinner table over something yummy and the topic of Halloween came up and the question of what we would do this year. Most years we hide out in the basement or something and keep the porch light turned off. We used to take the opportunity to create tracks (scripture) to hand out with the candy...but, the heart of a child will reveal much and the first scary thing that came up sent our kids running. We knew then, something was wrong about the whole thing. The kids were fleeing from evil (just like scripture says to do). Had I become that callous? Anyway, I am getting off track. We were sitting at the table and I was asked what we'd be doing this year. Well, I said something to the effect of "what do YOU think we should do?" My oldest son piped up, "In pastor Les' sermon, he stated in John that if you even welcome anyone that is evil, you'd be sharing in their wicked work."

Should he be in youth group? No, not ours. God's word does not return void. As long as the pastor is preaching Gods word, what is the point of going somewhere else for something watered down? For years I couldn't pin down the exact thing that made me feel Halloween was "bad" for us. He nailed it at 12.

So, what am I saying? That I think I've arrived? That I know the secret of how to raise kids? It wasn't anything that we did or do. I do not boast that we are doing things better than others or have unique knowledge. Quite frankly, I am pretty sure that I am NOT a very good father. I am easy to anger and quick to speak. What I am saying is that following God's advice has been a very rewarding experience even in some tough times. He is the one that has written in His book things of life, warning us of the things of death. He has made it easy to understand, not hard. The requirements are few but it's a lifelong commitment. I fail miserably and fail repeatedly. We abuse the Lord's mercy...thank you Lord for being long suffering for me. No, I don't think we've arrived. No, I don't think we have the answers. I have faith that we are not raising ax murderers or anything. I just want them to love the Lord by loving Him myself. I fail at that too. Jesus said that if we love Him we will follow his commands. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and these things will be added unto you.

I am sure this post will not get across what I am trying to say. It sounds to cliche if I say that any good in my life is from the Lord...but, it's true and I am trying to encourage you with that. That is my intent.

Boom, bang, boink, bonk

I was sitting on my pc in MY office and all of the sudden it sounded like a bowling ball was dropping down the stairs. I whipped around expecting to see something that shouldn't be tossed down the stairs come into view...I was correct in my expectation. From my office, I can see the bottom 2 stairs and as I looked in that direction my baby boy was bouncing down. YIKES. I run over there and he is pretty mad. He's bawling and grabbing his head. I pick him up and he's pretty upset. All the others come running and when mom gets there he definitely wants her instead of me.

He has been struggling with following the rules of "going down backwards" and wants to do it his own way. As I look back on the incident it makes me reflect on my earlier post regarding spilled milk. Should I have been harder on him? Or, should I have just gone, "awww, ain't he cute trying to do what HE wants instead of what I tell him? Good luck with that baby boy. Let me know how that turns out!"

Seeing events like this really reinforce the training kids need. Left to their own devices they would surely perish. We were blessed here that it wasn't worse than a little bump on the head and a scared little boy. If you play out the scenarios in other aspects in life it is clear that they need training...for crying out loud, I still need the training. I don't think there is a single soul that has "arrived". Why would we shirk our responsibilties to our little ones when they need it most? Why do people think that when you get on your kid for spilling milk and going down stairs incorrectly that we're being hard on them? I guess those type of folks think that we do it for ourselves. That we only have OUR best interest at heart and don't want the kids to have any fun or something.

He has encountered an event that reinforces what we tell him and he will be the wiser for it. We will, more than likely, see the fruits of his folly well beyond this as we continue to train him. If not, you can bet I'll recall this to use it to help explain why we do what we do!

I am glad he's not hurt. Phew.

Saturday fun

It was a fun day today. However, I didn't get the leak fixed and guess what it started doing just after dark...RAINING. At least it didn't start raining until after dark so our day was full of fun.

1st - My oldest boy, his mother and a friend headed out to Boulder for his league game. I wasn't able to go since my 3rd oldest boy had soccer almost at the same time and I am coaching the under 6 team. I called CT as we were leaving JD's game to go to JM's. CT informed me that they won 3-2 and he scored 2 of our goals! Wow, what a game for him! I wish I had seen it in person. My wife video taped it and I was able to watch his goals. It wan't near as good as being there to see them.

2nd - JD had a game while CT's game was going on. JD did fantastic again and actually, it appears that the whole team is improving. I am proud of them all and I hope they are having a good time.

3rd - JM had the last game of the day. It is always fun watching him control the ball. What a player! He's very good and he scored several as their team won.

4th - We had a picnic with some new friends. Played flag football until dark and then after it was good and dark, the old folk took on the young 'uns. Needless to say, the old folk SMOKED the young whipper snappers.

5th - as the day winds down and my wife and I are battling for computer time I grab this nice little interview with her. (It also includes an office tour. Yes of MY office!!)

Roof leak

What in the wild, wild world of sports causes a roof to suddenly start leaking? Last year we had a roof leak when we first moved in. I bought that sealant that you can put on while it's raining and it's done well to this point. But now there's a NEW leak somewhere else. How does that happen? It's fine for a year, then drip, drip, drip. Makes no sense. Does it wear out? Does it crack? For crying out loud.

Argh!

Crying over spilled milk is good - to me.

I have been thinking a lot lately of how I have been with my kids. I have been relatively short and abrupt… perhaps not as often as before, but, I don’t think that quantity matters in regards to such things. My heart really desires to be patient and kind…like a TV dad. That’s not me though.  I hope that I do the things I do to make them better at…well, at life.

 

Here’s a funny story: Mayf was sitting at the table and suddenly his cup slams the table, he’s all wet and his cup falls to the ground. By the time I look at him he is already looking at me and defending himself, “I was just holding the cup right and it did this”. LOL He was immediately distraught and just kind of hung his head. “Mayf, “ says I…”how about getting it cleaned up?” “ok”. A little later I overhear him telling his mom, “I was just holding the cup correctly and it spilled. <sniff> ”

 

In my house, spilled milk is something to cry about. I really don’t jump them too badly, but I do want them to know that being careful and mindful is part of their responsibility. Carelessness is something that’s kind of important, but most don’t agree. To me it’s like saying, go ahead and cross the street whenever you want. I want you to be careful, but if you look occasionally and you happen to get hit by a car and maimed for life or killed, it’ll be just fine you’ll do better next time. I know you really didn’t WANT to get hit by the car sweetie. WHATEVER!!! Nope, responsibility and being careful is either important or it’s not. How confusing is it to a child to say, this is very important and I want to you FULLY consider this everytime…don’t screw this up. Those things over there, if you mess up I’ll give you a hug and say it’s ok. So, in my house…when you spill milk you get a slight tongue lashing and a crooked eye from dad and told to be careful and mindful of what you are doing. Being careful and mindful spreads from spilling milk to putting away scissors, to riding their bike in the street, to driving cars. It’s a mindset that can be learned. As the Star Wars saga carefully repeats to it’s padawan learners “Be mindful young padawan …”  Even in poorly written space sagas they teach their young ones to be thoughtful and not absent minded.

 

Now, I agree with the fact that kids NEED to make mistakes. And spilled milk is one of those absolutely harmless things that afford a great opportunity at a minimal threat to life. The ratio is perfect. Low risk to child injury to very high great life lesson. When I think of other mistakes that teach life lessons like burning your hand on the stove, not looking where you are going when you ride your bike, changing the radio station or talking on your cell phone as you drive through a school zone….crying over spilled milk doesn’t seem so bad to me.

 

 

Recent Revelation

Dear Therapeutic Blog,

I feel like that God has uncovered some of my recent angst to help me cope with all the frustration that I’ve had lately. It goes something like this:

 

I used to be in a position of authority at work and now in a position of a total absence of authority.

I used to be in a place of influence with the head soccer coach and the leaders of the soccer organization and now I can’t even spell the coaches last name let alone have any understanding of this current organization.

I used to be in a church where everything was appropriately timed and rehearsed and everyone was exceptional at what they did and now I am in a church that’s growing in that direction but doesn’t have the resources.

My wife used to love her house and access to her friends and now we are in a work in progress home and barely have any friends.

 

In essence, every part of my life is dramatically different and I am having to adjust. It’s been very difficult. For so long I was happy with the ways that I was used to. If I didn’t like something in soccer, I had the friends and influence to see a change. My opinions were sought. Now, I am a nobody.

 

Yep…you nailed it. Pride. Pride of where I was and what I had accomplished. Now, I have to learn new ways to communicate and deal with others. Unfortunately, I am failing on the “plays nice with others” category in too many areas and the adjustment time is extremely slow.

 

At least I understand WHAT it is I am upset about…perhaps now God will reveal the way to cope with that for His glory. In a funny way I am very happy to know what my problem is (*pride*) because I now know what to pray for…Thanks Lord.

 

Signed,

A work in progress

Old made new?? Nikon Coolpix 5000

Yesterday, I was going through all my oldest pictures on the PC...I ran across some videos that my old point and shoot digital camera was able to take. Check it out...this is old stuff from 2003ish...

Ain't he quuutte..

So, I had my oldest daughter hunt the ol' Nikon down (I gave it to her) I needed the camera, it's batteries and the book on how to use it. She found all of it. (Isn't she so responsible?)

Here's a still image of what was going on for comparison purposes.


Here's the comparison video from today while getting ready to go to 3 soccer games. MOST of the kiddos are included in this:

(No, that's not Peyton Manning doing our dishes, just an adoring fan)



It was a neat rediscovery of a simple way to capture some live video action of the Tagg fam...and now you get to share in the wonderfulness! ;-) Which do you like best, still image or video?

Communication and passion

I have known for the last few years (especially since I have had teenagers) that I have either, always been a poor communicator and not known it or have recently become a poor communicator. Recently, I have posted on worship...I can't seem to communicate what I am troubled by. Even my wife is frustrated by my attempts. I can see that it must be hard because I can't even put it into a sentence or 2. But, that's just the most recent happening...there are plenty of others. The diconcerting part about it is that it makes it more difficult to receive advice. People "think" they understand and make valiant attempts only to be discussing something that is very worthwhile, but not my issue.

Argh!?!? Don't give up on me folks!!

Worship?

I have really been struggling with the word “worship” and what it means. I have scoured the internet for assistance and from what I can tell, it’s undecided as well. I have a ton of questions and I’m misguided in most of my thoughts as I try to piece information together.

• Why would we choose music as a form of worship in the modern day, a medium that is so “controversial” and that so many have personal preference?
• How does music display the service of worship? Why, when an angel appears or God speaks, does one go prostrate and worship? I am thinking that it is more like the wording should be “go prostrate IN worship”. I don’t recall scripture talking about Joshua falling on his face when confronted with the Angel of the Lord and the muffled sound of Amazing Grace arises from the ground in worship. It merely states, bowed down and worshipped. So, to me, it’s the action of bowing down that displays the WORTHSHIP of the person whom you are bestowing it upon. It’s not only there..but, Gideon, John, etc.
• What does worship have to do with us anyway? Why is there a preference if it’s declaring the WORTHINESS to the one that you should be offering it up.
• There is an instance in Numbers, I believe, where it states how they were to worship. (When they finally took census of the Levites) That the stringed instruments, cymbals and 120 priests with trumpets come together as one and everyone would say something to affect, “Holy is the Lord, Mighty are His works.” … The end. That’s all they would say and only after the music came together. So, it wasn’t a song…more like a battle chant or something.
• What are you supposed to be doing in worship? It’s quite clear it’s service…but what are you doing? Are you supposed to be swept with emotion? Are you just supposed to agree with the words? If so, why is it in a song? Why don’t they just recite the words? What do you do to worship?

It seems quite clear to me that music is important in the Old Testament setting of the tabernacle, however, I don’t recall much of it in the new testament. The 12 tribes are disbanded and the Levites aren’t required apparently. The piano and organ are invented and viewed as the reverent instrument and if you slam a cymbal, “oh my”!

Here’s the crux of it…God’s word is timeless, should His music be? I suspect it was somewhat important to have psalms scattered with it and quite a few scriptures referencing it. But, what has man done to it? Is the problem larger than that? Do people actually expect to be catered to in church? You know, drop off the kids and watch a movie kind of atmosphere? If it’s not the correct genre, try a different location? Is the church becoming a country club limited to like minded stubborn folk? Is it lead by directionless, godless men that are more interested in being “admired” than admiring God? Why is Joel Osteen’s church packed when other bible preaching churches are empty? Why would someone need to drive past 10 churches to get to “theirs”? From what I see, people are afforded too much power in church to change things and God is squeezed out and self preservation kicks in which leads to self sufficiency and then competition for a congregation, viola, people get catered to. What SHOULD we do to cater to GOD?

I wonder if there were grumblers in the OT days where they complained about the cymbal crashing to loudly. Ya know, 120 trumpets wouldn’t be quiet. Of course, their audience was probably in the hundreds of thousands…so it needed to be loud. I guess all the old grumpy folk would move to the back due to the volume. Or, would they have been there in the front being an example of what worship is, testifying to the Great and Mighty things they witnessed God do in their lives? Were the young folks whining about the old folks and their stubborn ways? Unknowingly being very judgmental and stubborn in their own right?

These seem like pretty immature questions…but, I am a follower of Jesus and don’t know. Why don’t I know? How would I explain this to a non believer? Since I can’t, I must rely on the knowledgeable folks that might happen upon this blog entry… To be wise, walk with the wise.

Presumption

We've all done it. You know, assumed that someone meant one thing...yet, we were totally wrong. I've found that when someone does that to me, it really annoys me and I feel compelled to "set the record straight".

This morning it happened. MSN messenger, the official instant messenger of my office had a news snippet about Palin's (VP candidate) 17 year old daughter being pregnant. I make the mistake of saying out loud, "great, did you read about Palin's daughter being pregnant?" One of the guys says "be careful what you say about that." I must have been giving him the ol' deer in the headlights look (honestly, I had NO clue of what he was talking about." Then he says, "my mom was pregnant at 16 and a lot of people talked about her only to have their daughter get pregnant too." Gee, what tremendous insight. Had he asked me what I meant first he would have seen how totally inappropriate his response was.

Isn't that a typical example of all of our pride though. Scripture talks about how a fool answers a question before he hears it. I know I do that regularly.. Another HUGE shortcoming of mine. Isn't it strange how pride manifests itself?

Well, I didn't say anything. I am not sure I should. I would really like to but I am not sure my heart is to help him or exalt me. So, I'll just shut up. "Even a fool is thought wise that can "shut up", right?

A Good Friend

Yesterday, an old friend of mine called from Arkansas. He was just checking up on me and seeing how I was doing. It really made me miss the kind of days I used to have when around him. Since we worked together, that was everyday. I was just thinking this morning of some of the things that we used to do during the workday that had nothing to do with work:

·         Talk about what we’ve read in the Bible.

·         Ask each other for advice on things we would be struggling with at the time.

·         Get corrected on an incorrect action.

·         Hold each other accountable.

·         Pray for each other and others.

I guess the main thing that was always happening was that he was making me be a better me. We kept and eye on each other…our countenance, sins, attitude, etc. Not out of spite or to hold it over each other, but because he loved me like a brother. He authentically knew what I wanted and wanted to help me become that person. I tried to be the same to him…but, often fell short.

 

There is no doubt in my mind that we will be friends forever, but I can see how far I’ve “slid” even after just a phone conversation.

 

I highly recommend that type of friendship with someone.