Hello all!
Sorry i havent blogged in a long time.
I have been BUSY out the wazoo...whatever a wazoo is. Haha.
The internship is going well. Learning much and retaining good portions of it. I am also running out of thinking space to write...so much has happened that a single post cannot contain it.
So I will be short and sweet and try to continue from here on!!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Thursday, April 23, 2009
as I chew the food, it turns into the body.
WOW! Been a long time since I updated this.
Here...its incredible. Life has been kicking me in the teeth, which is always exciting...and good news I have been working on developing sarcasm. Haha.
Stress. Its fairly addictive and must have a magnetic power to people who want everything calm and chill. It has been flying around like an annoying fly. Even saying, "shoo fly! dont bother me" is not cutting it. Best way to cope...ugh let me know. The only way I know how is to just deal with it. It wont last forever.
I am about to embark on a journey on the connections of the Old Testiment to the New Testiment. The visuals God used in the Old Testiment, and how Jesus (or whatever Jesus did or what he did casues) ties in together. Its fascinating so far. Im starting by reading the Tenahk (first five books of the Old Testiment) Im reading it in three translations: Messgae//Remix, New Living Trans., and the Complete Jewish Bible. Its pretty interesting.
My little corner of what God is showing me!
Faith. Hope. Love. why these three remain.
I have been reading in Isaiah, and I have found that God loves us. I have been reading Isaiah as if its me speaking to people who I care about. Like I was speaking to the interns of the Honor Academy, the people of my town, the people in my work place and where i worked, to my youth group, etc. To people i thoroughly cared about. Now...this gives me a tiny glimpse of how Isaiah felt, but an even tinier glimpse of how God felt.
In Isaiah 42:18-25, Isaiah is speaking the Words of God to Israel. He just spoke about a "new salvation" in verses 5-9. God is prophesying through Isaiah about salvation through Christ! Now, God is pleading with Israel! Check this out: at verse 18:
Pay attention! Are you deaf? Open your eyes! Are you blind? You're my servant, and your not looking! You're my messenger, and you're not listening.
God's love is so extreme here, He is making sure Isaiah is pay attention. He is spekaing of something so new and revolutionary, he wants Isaiah to be tracking. God continues,
The very people I have depeneded upon, servants of God, blind as a bat - willfully blind! You've seen a lot, but looked at nothing. You've heard everything, but listened to nothing.
Wow...this shows how you can "see" what God is doing, and miss it. Later on, it tells of how God wanted to be lavish in His revelation! He wanted the people to come back whole-heartedly. And the more He is doing this, the more He is conjuring up a "new salvation" for Israel to truly bring people back. He desired so much more!! A few verses on:
But is anyone out there listening? Is anyone paying attention to what's coming?
I always thought it meant the impeding doom. Always. But lets think about this...God is asking if the people have paid attention to what just happened. What did just happen? The impeding judgments!! Doom came and destoryed them. But i am beginning to feel Isaiah wasnt implying the people to look to the doom that is coming. He asked them to lok at the "servant" who will be bathed in the Spirit. The "new salvation". WHOA! God gave hope to the people, and He is asking if theyjust heard what God said. They were too busy about what happened and so concerned with that...they are about to miss the hope that is promised!! God is desperately trying to get there attention!
It continues:
Who do you think turned Jacob over to the thugs, let loose the robbers on Israel? Wasn't it God Himself, this God against whom we've sinned - not doing what he commanded, not listening to what He said? Isn't God's anger that's behind all this...Their whole world collapsed but they still didn't get it; their life is in ruins but they don't take it to heart.
Ok...God said this happened to them because they didn't obey them. He is now trying to console them. He is saying, "You know what did this?...your sin!" He is trying to get them to turn back faithfully and look towards the hope that is coming! The hope...its about the hope isnt it? God asked his people to have faith in this prediction, because the other ones came true! Haha, God is trying to grab there attention. He is giving reasons to believe what He says will happen!! He said "If you do not follow me, such and such will happen" and sure enough...they did not follow and such and such happened! He now is saying, "Ok...I told you it will happen, now why wont you fully believe me when I say HOPE IS COMING!?" I can imagine God shaking their bodies, slapping them in the face (to wake up slap), waving a hand in front of their eyes, checking to see if somebody is home or if they are just comatose.
Funny huh? God is more personified if we thnk about it. Emotions are great, because they bring things to life! God has emotions. He has anger, love, sadness...he has them...why do we imagine Him speaking monotone, or always angry, or just...uninteresting? He is saying, in his Old Testiment "visual" way, FAITH HOPE AND LOVE WILL REMAIN! THESE THREE REMAIN!!!! THESE THREE!
Now...if we believe that Jesus is who He says He is, did what He said He did, and lived how its told He loved...Why dont we believe the rest of the book?
May you come to see that God gives us hope. May you come to find that God wants our faith because He does what He says. May you come to discover the Love that He has, which ultimately drives Him to bring hope and give us reason for faith.
Here...its incredible. Life has been kicking me in the teeth, which is always exciting...and good news I have been working on developing sarcasm. Haha.
Stress. Its fairly addictive and must have a magnetic power to people who want everything calm and chill. It has been flying around like an annoying fly. Even saying, "shoo fly! dont bother me" is not cutting it. Best way to cope...ugh let me know. The only way I know how is to just deal with it. It wont last forever.
I am about to embark on a journey on the connections of the Old Testiment to the New Testiment. The visuals God used in the Old Testiment, and how Jesus (or whatever Jesus did or what he did casues) ties in together. Its fascinating so far. Im starting by reading the Tenahk (first five books of the Old Testiment) Im reading it in three translations: Messgae//Remix, New Living Trans., and the Complete Jewish Bible. Its pretty interesting.
My little corner of what God is showing me!
Faith. Hope. Love. why these three remain.
I have been reading in Isaiah, and I have found that God loves us. I have been reading Isaiah as if its me speaking to people who I care about. Like I was speaking to the interns of the Honor Academy, the people of my town, the people in my work place and where i worked, to my youth group, etc. To people i thoroughly cared about. Now...this gives me a tiny glimpse of how Isaiah felt, but an even tinier glimpse of how God felt.
In Isaiah 42:18-25, Isaiah is speaking the Words of God to Israel. He just spoke about a "new salvation" in verses 5-9. God is prophesying through Isaiah about salvation through Christ! Now, God is pleading with Israel! Check this out: at verse 18:
Pay attention! Are you deaf? Open your eyes! Are you blind? You're my servant, and your not looking! You're my messenger, and you're not listening.
God's love is so extreme here, He is making sure Isaiah is pay attention. He is spekaing of something so new and revolutionary, he wants Isaiah to be tracking. God continues,
The very people I have depeneded upon, servants of God, blind as a bat - willfully blind! You've seen a lot, but looked at nothing. You've heard everything, but listened to nothing.
Wow...this shows how you can "see" what God is doing, and miss it. Later on, it tells of how God wanted to be lavish in His revelation! He wanted the people to come back whole-heartedly. And the more He is doing this, the more He is conjuring up a "new salvation" for Israel to truly bring people back. He desired so much more!! A few verses on:
But is anyone out there listening? Is anyone paying attention to what's coming?
I always thought it meant the impeding doom. Always. But lets think about this...God is asking if the people have paid attention to what just happened. What did just happen? The impeding judgments!! Doom came and destoryed them. But i am beginning to feel Isaiah wasnt implying the people to look to the doom that is coming. He asked them to lok at the "servant" who will be bathed in the Spirit. The "new salvation". WHOA! God gave hope to the people, and He is asking if theyjust heard what God said. They were too busy about what happened and so concerned with that...they are about to miss the hope that is promised!! God is desperately trying to get there attention!
It continues:
Who do you think turned Jacob over to the thugs, let loose the robbers on Israel? Wasn't it God Himself, this God against whom we've sinned - not doing what he commanded, not listening to what He said? Isn't God's anger that's behind all this...Their whole world collapsed but they still didn't get it; their life is in ruins but they don't take it to heart.
Ok...God said this happened to them because they didn't obey them. He is now trying to console them. He is saying, "You know what did this?...your sin!" He is trying to get them to turn back faithfully and look towards the hope that is coming! The hope...its about the hope isnt it? God asked his people to have faith in this prediction, because the other ones came true! Haha, God is trying to grab there attention. He is giving reasons to believe what He says will happen!! He said "If you do not follow me, such and such will happen" and sure enough...they did not follow and such and such happened! He now is saying, "Ok...I told you it will happen, now why wont you fully believe me when I say HOPE IS COMING!?" I can imagine God shaking their bodies, slapping them in the face (to wake up slap), waving a hand in front of their eyes, checking to see if somebody is home or if they are just comatose.
Funny huh? God is more personified if we thnk about it. Emotions are great, because they bring things to life! God has emotions. He has anger, love, sadness...he has them...why do we imagine Him speaking monotone, or always angry, or just...uninteresting? He is saying, in his Old Testiment "visual" way, FAITH HOPE AND LOVE WILL REMAIN! THESE THREE REMAIN!!!! THESE THREE!
Now...if we believe that Jesus is who He says He is, did what He said He did, and lived how its told He loved...Why dont we believe the rest of the book?
May you come to see that God gives us hope. May you come to find that God wants our faith because He does what He says. May you come to discover the Love that He has, which ultimately drives Him to bring hope and give us reason for faith.
Monday, March 16, 2009
The pressure has built, and the volcano erupts with all its contents...only showing a glorious spectical to those who look
"Heretics!"
The name has weight. The name is never to be used lightly from a Christian's mouth. In fact, from my research (and until further evidence is brought it will remain) the name heretic in the New Testiment is used by one...Jesus.
So where do we get the authority to call someone a heretic? Is it because they do not agree with the norm? Who are we to judge, like we know the very heart of the person? And wasn't the accepted "evangelical" movement called the same when it came about? ENOUGH! If you cannot stand as to say, "I know the truth" without calling the so-called "false doctrine" heresy...something is off. Shouldn't the truth stand and be able to handle this so called problem? Truth is constant, and I believe thus...it will handle itself when we allow it to work, not us work it.
Defending and attacking are different things. We are to defend the faith, not attack our own! If they are "deceived" then shouldn't we win them with the truth instead of labeling with names? We are not accountable for the choices of others, but we can influence their decision by showing the truth and our integrity by weighing what is said for ourselves. Otherwise, it's no different than gossip. Instead of calling something a name...point out what is said(accurately and in context) and show IN LOVE where it is wrong and pray the person gets the Holy Spirit to convict them...not YOU convicting them! Otherwise its comes across like an attack.
Yes our faith isnt passive and you may be concerned for the ones you love. GREAT! But attacking our own is dividing us! Shouldnt we be careful to take things out of context?
And on another issue....What pastor hasn't said something that may seem a little off to what our revelation of God has shown us? I do not fully agree with a baptist pastor who believes miracles do not happen anymore. I do not agree with the catholics that many traditions that haoppen repeatedly (ie almost ritualistic) are necessary. I do not agree with the people who think tongues are for everyone. So please...just don't.
And Paul says, "let each servant answer to his own mastrer"...that applies to us as well. We are solely responsible for what we allow. Yes...we can show something we believe is wrong, but there are WAYS better to do it than call it "heresy" or "you're wrong". "I disagree because I came across this in the truth of God..." is many times better. Im not saying to not speak up if something is wrong, but Im saying your approach is the difference. And we cannot change a person...that's the Holy Spirit's job, right?
Rob Bell has been the biggest issue lately. People say he believes in "no virgin birth" and no "sola scriptura"(the doctrine that the Bible is the only infallible or inerrant authority for Christian faith, and that it contains all knowledge necessary for salvation and holiness)...according to my research...this is misrepresented. In the same book these are quoted from...He CONFIRMS the virgin birth. And he AFFIRMS the sola scriptura! So...according to this...they misquoted him, thus their claims wrong. Has he made some claims I do not agree with, of course! His intellect is UP THERE! Thus he thinks on such a level I cannot quite comprehend, but I know where his heart stands...and its for Jesus.
So...I honestly say we need to stop calling names. We need to stop and look at the other in love. Is name calling love? THe only person who saw the hearts of man called the "religious/holier than thou" as heretics...and I believe only Jesus alone can make that claim. We can show truth, pray, and show it in LOVE. So can we please...please quit the name calling at least? If you do not like the guy, say that...no further. If someone asks why...remember you are accountable for your words. Do you really want to accuse someone of heresy, only to discover that the Holy Spirit used that to bring about a revival for the Kingdom? I implore you...search for yourself, and do not do something you will regret with your words.
The name has weight. The name is never to be used lightly from a Christian's mouth. In fact, from my research (and until further evidence is brought it will remain) the name heretic in the New Testiment is used by one...Jesus.
So where do we get the authority to call someone a heretic? Is it because they do not agree with the norm? Who are we to judge, like we know the very heart of the person? And wasn't the accepted "evangelical" movement called the same when it came about? ENOUGH! If you cannot stand as to say, "I know the truth" without calling the so-called "false doctrine" heresy...something is off. Shouldn't the truth stand and be able to handle this so called problem? Truth is constant, and I believe thus...it will handle itself when we allow it to work, not us work it.
Defending and attacking are different things. We are to defend the faith, not attack our own! If they are "deceived" then shouldn't we win them with the truth instead of labeling with names? We are not accountable for the choices of others, but we can influence their decision by showing the truth and our integrity by weighing what is said for ourselves. Otherwise, it's no different than gossip. Instead of calling something a name...point out what is said(accurately and in context) and show IN LOVE where it is wrong and pray the person gets the Holy Spirit to convict them...not YOU convicting them! Otherwise its comes across like an attack.
Yes our faith isnt passive and you may be concerned for the ones you love. GREAT! But attacking our own is dividing us! Shouldnt we be careful to take things out of context?
And on another issue....What pastor hasn't said something that may seem a little off to what our revelation of God has shown us? I do not fully agree with a baptist pastor who believes miracles do not happen anymore. I do not agree with the catholics that many traditions that haoppen repeatedly (ie almost ritualistic) are necessary. I do not agree with the people who think tongues are for everyone. So please...just don't.
And Paul says, "let each servant answer to his own mastrer"...that applies to us as well. We are solely responsible for what we allow. Yes...we can show something we believe is wrong, but there are WAYS better to do it than call it "heresy" or "you're wrong". "I disagree because I came across this in the truth of God..." is many times better. Im not saying to not speak up if something is wrong, but Im saying your approach is the difference. And we cannot change a person...that's the Holy Spirit's job, right?
Rob Bell has been the biggest issue lately. People say he believes in "no virgin birth" and no "sola scriptura"(the doctrine that the Bible is the only infallible or inerrant authority for Christian faith, and that it contains all knowledge necessary for salvation and holiness)...according to my research...this is misrepresented. In the same book these are quoted from...He CONFIRMS the virgin birth. And he AFFIRMS the sola scriptura! So...according to this...they misquoted him, thus their claims wrong. Has he made some claims I do not agree with, of course! His intellect is UP THERE! Thus he thinks on such a level I cannot quite comprehend, but I know where his heart stands...and its for Jesus.
So...I honestly say we need to stop calling names. We need to stop and look at the other in love. Is name calling love? THe only person who saw the hearts of man called the "religious/holier than thou" as heretics...and I believe only Jesus alone can make that claim. We can show truth, pray, and show it in LOVE. So can we please...please quit the name calling at least? If you do not like the guy, say that...no further. If someone asks why...remember you are accountable for your words. Do you really want to accuse someone of heresy, only to discover that the Holy Spirit used that to bring about a revival for the Kingdom? I implore you...search for yourself, and do not do something you will regret with your words.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
untitled posts leave many wondering the subject
So I have way too much fun with the titles of my blog! Sorry I havent been very active. I have been busy.
Hmmm...I can say things here have gotten exciting. I have been able to grow yet closer to God. The realization of "why" I do and desire certain things has been very humbling. So if you're lost, I will recap. I am a Musician. I enjoy being on stage, in fact when I worship, there are times I wish I just had my guitar with me, because its how I would praise Him...through my guitar. And I wanted to play on stage. REALLY BADLY! We had a Band Fusion at the class. This is where we throw in different musicians at one time and play songs, then change out some position switch new instruments. Pretty cool. Well the first time we had it, I almost got to play. I had to go back to work right as I was about to play. Total sinker! Like "You sunk my battleship!" sinker. As I was walking back to work, I asked God why I couldn't play. That I wanted to play. Then he subtly asked, "why". When God asks why, most likely it means your motives are wrong. My case: Im always wrong when He asks why.
Well, regardless to say...I discovered why. And God kept working that aspect of me. He wants me to be a worshipper, not some performer. It's like what makes a Rock-Star a rock star. Is it the fact they play guitar and look cool, or is it that and they act, live, breathe the fact of being a Rock-Star. In fact to them, they never become a Rock-Star, they just do. They do it, not think about how to do it. CONNECTION! Im a Worshipper. I not only need to live, breathe, and sleep worship for God, but I need to do it. And do it through awe and love for Him, not because I am asked to. Do you like someone giving you "forced" approval? Or "forced" love? Why is God any different?
Ok, now that thats done...Work. We wont go there. Work stays at work.
I miss a lot of people back home. you guys are on my heart! And I pray you all go on an adventure of your own with God!
SOW today was intense!!! It was about what we, as worshippers, need to be and realize. Very good. Halfway through it, me and a buddy of mine had inspiration moments...so we wrote some intense songs. Songs about deliverence, remembrance, and thankfulness. Im pumped to get music to them.
Hmmm...I can say things here have gotten exciting. I have been able to grow yet closer to God. The realization of "why" I do and desire certain things has been very humbling. So if you're lost, I will recap. I am a Musician. I enjoy being on stage, in fact when I worship, there are times I wish I just had my guitar with me, because its how I would praise Him...through my guitar. And I wanted to play on stage. REALLY BADLY! We had a Band Fusion at the class. This is where we throw in different musicians at one time and play songs, then change out some position switch new instruments. Pretty cool. Well the first time we had it, I almost got to play. I had to go back to work right as I was about to play. Total sinker! Like "You sunk my battleship!" sinker. As I was walking back to work, I asked God why I couldn't play. That I wanted to play. Then he subtly asked, "why". When God asks why, most likely it means your motives are wrong. My case: Im always wrong when He asks why.
Well, regardless to say...I discovered why. And God kept working that aspect of me. He wants me to be a worshipper, not some performer. It's like what makes a Rock-Star a rock star. Is it the fact they play guitar and look cool, or is it that and they act, live, breathe the fact of being a Rock-Star. In fact to them, they never become a Rock-Star, they just do. They do it, not think about how to do it. CONNECTION! Im a Worshipper. I not only need to live, breathe, and sleep worship for God, but I need to do it. And do it through awe and love for Him, not because I am asked to. Do you like someone giving you "forced" approval? Or "forced" love? Why is God any different?
Ok, now that thats done...Work. We wont go there. Work stays at work.
I miss a lot of people back home. you guys are on my heart! And I pray you all go on an adventure of your own with God!
SOW today was intense!!! It was about what we, as worshippers, need to be and realize. Very good. Halfway through it, me and a buddy of mine had inspiration moments...so we wrote some intense songs. Songs about deliverence, remembrance, and thankfulness. Im pumped to get music to them.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Realization and lightning have spontaneity in common
I just talked with a fellow january. It's hilarious when you talk about somethings you don't understand. We came to this randomly: We are at a boarding school. I eat here, sleep here, live here, can't leave here, and pay to be here. Realization can be hilarious.
I never thought I would go to a boarding school. Ever. Thought Tibet was too cold.
I enjoy HA. Don't get me wrong. God called me here. I will look for Him here, because He is here. Just a fun realization.
HA UPDATE!!
Ok. Long while since I updated. Current: Week of the Ring. THe week we celebrate to get our rings of honor, symbolizing our commitment to a lifestyle of honor. Pretty fancy huh? The ring is very cool. The principles are good, but I won't forget why Im doing it (JESUS!).
Hmmm...We had a talk today about "appearance of evil" and hugs. I didnt say a word to the speaker, but I sure did in my head. Appearance of evil: hanging around someone tooo much. For quality time people: your toast when making opposite gender friends. haha. And for some reason, most of the female friends I make here are indeed...quality time. Hugs. The havent outlawed frontal hugs, but you can be confronted if it looks like your getting too involved....I thought "my foot I will let it get there". What most of the people who complain fail to realize is this: Most of the people "guilty" of giving frontal hugs are physical touch love language. I am included. I say this "I know the difference between a hug from a friend, and a hug from someone who I like or likes me. There is a BIG difference in them". people ignore what I say, but thats their choice, as is mine to keep doing frontal hugs. I don't give them out all the time and when I do, it's never more than two to the same person that day. It's uncommon. Grow up and face the fact: Hugs can be read like a book! Some people are just gifted.
*sigh* food. I have eaten a variety of food here. Salmon, burgers, french toast, etc. some good, some not, some are drop dead amazing. I have stocked up on oreos and ramen. Life savers. My favorite candy is now Linder's White Chocolate with he smooth filling...like eating pudding cake. *shivers* so goood!
Work. Work here is not work. its free labor. haha. because we are considered a non-profit organization, we are called volunteers. Ha, i lauhg everytime I think about it. It's not very motivating and its monotonous (you try calling people who have no idea why your calling them for 8 hours...then we will sit and have coffee together). But its rewarding...to receive the few calls from people who are genuinely interested in the program. OH THE CONVERSATIONS ARE HILARIOUS! I talked to this one girl for 1 hour once. Best thing about it: it was considered work. I talked to this girl, interacted, asked about her school and so on. Refreshing.
SOW UPDATE
I am playing a lot. learning some coool chords, the importance of an amp over pedals. the importance of a delay pedal and metronome. learning creativity through simplicity from Paul Baloche (He is ADD by the way...very funny to watch him speak)
I don't practice as much as I should. I know, shoot me. But Im busy. They know I am busy. Everybody is busy. But its nice. I play when I can, practice for about 20 min. catch up on some sleep (regardless of what research says...you can catch up!) I sleep 8 hours over the course of a day. 6 at night, 2 after breakfast. its nice.
PEOPLE UPDATE
Zech (Zack) is here with me. Funny dude. Helped me mature a bunch. Very grateful, and he is very good at guitar. He understands a lot. Helped me solidify me view of "Amps over pedals". Amps are expensive, but less things to carry :) and better sound.
Zach (Zach) is my Acountability Partner. He and I have some great times of worship and share a lot of views. He encourages me and I him. He sleeps above me and I wake him up for breakfast every so often. We take naps in the room together as well. We eat ramen together too. And he drinks tea. SCORE!
Danny. He is the room leader. funny. He sleeps on a double mattress bed. I didnt know this until...two days ago. Its comfy. Im claiming it when the Augusts leave. :)
Kayla. She is leaving sooon :( Her family and her feel like God doesnt want her here. She feels hindered spiritually and is scared. So she is looking homeward. I would stop her, but I feel the Spirit saying no. SO I let her go. She leaves soon.
We are about to lose like...20 people in about 2 days. Its scary. Reaosn: $$$$$ funds are expensive and it scares people.
More updates later, LOVE YOU ALL!!
I never thought I would go to a boarding school. Ever. Thought Tibet was too cold.
I enjoy HA. Don't get me wrong. God called me here. I will look for Him here, because He is here. Just a fun realization.
HA UPDATE!!
Ok. Long while since I updated. Current: Week of the Ring. THe week we celebrate to get our rings of honor, symbolizing our commitment to a lifestyle of honor. Pretty fancy huh? The ring is very cool. The principles are good, but I won't forget why Im doing it (JESUS!).
Hmmm...We had a talk today about "appearance of evil" and hugs. I didnt say a word to the speaker, but I sure did in my head. Appearance of evil: hanging around someone tooo much. For quality time people: your toast when making opposite gender friends. haha. And for some reason, most of the female friends I make here are indeed...quality time. Hugs. The havent outlawed frontal hugs, but you can be confronted if it looks like your getting too involved....I thought "my foot I will let it get there". What most of the people who complain fail to realize is this: Most of the people "guilty" of giving frontal hugs are physical touch love language. I am included. I say this "I know the difference between a hug from a friend, and a hug from someone who I like or likes me. There is a BIG difference in them". people ignore what I say, but thats their choice, as is mine to keep doing frontal hugs. I don't give them out all the time and when I do, it's never more than two to the same person that day. It's uncommon. Grow up and face the fact: Hugs can be read like a book! Some people are just gifted.
*sigh* food. I have eaten a variety of food here. Salmon, burgers, french toast, etc. some good, some not, some are drop dead amazing. I have stocked up on oreos and ramen. Life savers. My favorite candy is now Linder's White Chocolate with he smooth filling...like eating pudding cake. *shivers* so goood!
Work. Work here is not work. its free labor. haha. because we are considered a non-profit organization, we are called volunteers. Ha, i lauhg everytime I think about it. It's not very motivating and its monotonous (you try calling people who have no idea why your calling them for 8 hours...then we will sit and have coffee together). But its rewarding...to receive the few calls from people who are genuinely interested in the program. OH THE CONVERSATIONS ARE HILARIOUS! I talked to this one girl for 1 hour once. Best thing about it: it was considered work. I talked to this girl, interacted, asked about her school and so on. Refreshing.
SOW UPDATE
I am playing a lot. learning some coool chords, the importance of an amp over pedals. the importance of a delay pedal and metronome. learning creativity through simplicity from Paul Baloche (He is ADD by the way...very funny to watch him speak)
I don't practice as much as I should. I know, shoot me. But Im busy. They know I am busy. Everybody is busy. But its nice. I play when I can, practice for about 20 min. catch up on some sleep (regardless of what research says...you can catch up!) I sleep 8 hours over the course of a day. 6 at night, 2 after breakfast. its nice.
PEOPLE UPDATE
Zech (Zack) is here with me. Funny dude. Helped me mature a bunch. Very grateful, and he is very good at guitar. He understands a lot. Helped me solidify me view of "Amps over pedals". Amps are expensive, but less things to carry :) and better sound.
Zach (Zach) is my Acountability Partner. He and I have some great times of worship and share a lot of views. He encourages me and I him. He sleeps above me and I wake him up for breakfast every so often. We take naps in the room together as well. We eat ramen together too. And he drinks tea. SCORE!
Danny. He is the room leader. funny. He sleeps on a double mattress bed. I didnt know this until...two days ago. Its comfy. Im claiming it when the Augusts leave. :)
Kayla. She is leaving sooon :( Her family and her feel like God doesnt want her here. She feels hindered spiritually and is scared. So she is looking homeward. I would stop her, but I feel the Spirit saying no. SO I let her go. She leaves soon.
We are about to lose like...20 people in about 2 days. Its scary. Reaosn: $$$$$ funds are expensive and it scares people.
More updates later, LOVE YOU ALL!!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
the whispers in the dark awaken a lulled man
The events in todays society interest me. Homosexuality is an issue. Pornogrpahy is rampant (still). Christian women are becoming to accept Pornography as normal for men. Islam is rising. Makes you wonder what is wrong with our world, doesn't it?
Seeing how Islamic people become passionate to take over country's is shocking. What's more shocking to some of you, it's not new to the idea of Islam. Islam has been conquerring countries for centuries. What's new? My eyes have been opened to how its working. Islam is being passionate. They are offering services, like free burials in Uganda, and where do you think a poor person is going to go for a funeral? The Mosque. Where do you think they will attend service next? The mosque.
It gets worse. 16% of people in Uganda are Islamic. However in the Law school there, 90% are Islamic. In the communication school, 60% are Islamic.
How is this accomplished? Islam tells those to be passionate, and to do this or that for Allah, regardless the cost. What a scary thought when you think about it.
How ashamed I am. Passion is distorted by the enemy. He utilized its fulest potential and is leading nations astray. This is reality. This is what we are living in. This is war. How often I forget that we are at war. My eyes were blind to this whole matter, and I get the feeling many others are too.
When girls can be sold for $0.50 for a night just because they are poor...when Christians roar at a touchdown for football but will need a lot of encouragement to praise God for healing someone or a miraculous thing happened. We are passionless.
We had a pastor from Uganda come to us last night, and he is joining us tonight for our Fasting LTE Vow of Silence. He choose to come to us, paid his own way to see us, and preaches to us about passion. (so 99% of this...is his :] )
He tells of many things he sees in America: Spirit of Death, Obsession of the supernatural, the Church shying away form the supernatural, teens uninvolved with Christ, and much more. We all cried for youth to be more passionate about Christ, who redeems us from our sins and saved this world!
This past month has been incredible. Orange Block (the time leading up to the first LTE) was a pain! I couldnt enjoy sugar or Christian music, just worship. Worship is great unless you have only 3 albums, and listend to all of them 15 times over the first week...haha
But good news...its done! Im doing School of Worship. Learning how to create songs. Simple things to remember for worship songs vs normal songs!...actually i could use them for normal songs too haha.
My friends here...wow. They are slimming down in numbers. Not because they are friends, but my definition of a friend has changed. So, I honestly only have...*counting*...2 here lol. my AP and Kayla.
Work is ok. Not used to being on the phone for over 5 hours. haha. I can be personable, but shoo...This is a stretch haha.
Miss everyone in GA. LOVE YOU ALL!
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY and remember who we are passionate for as Christians :)
*Listening to: Showbread - Nervosa*
Seeing how Islamic people become passionate to take over country's is shocking. What's more shocking to some of you, it's not new to the idea of Islam. Islam has been conquerring countries for centuries. What's new? My eyes have been opened to how its working. Islam is being passionate. They are offering services, like free burials in Uganda, and where do you think a poor person is going to go for a funeral? The Mosque. Where do you think they will attend service next? The mosque.
It gets worse. 16% of people in Uganda are Islamic. However in the Law school there, 90% are Islamic. In the communication school, 60% are Islamic.
How is this accomplished? Islam tells those to be passionate, and to do this or that for Allah, regardless the cost. What a scary thought when you think about it.
How ashamed I am. Passion is distorted by the enemy. He utilized its fulest potential and is leading nations astray. This is reality. This is what we are living in. This is war. How often I forget that we are at war. My eyes were blind to this whole matter, and I get the feeling many others are too.
When girls can be sold for $0.50 for a night just because they are poor...when Christians roar at a touchdown for football but will need a lot of encouragement to praise God for healing someone or a miraculous thing happened. We are passionless.
We had a pastor from Uganda come to us last night, and he is joining us tonight for our Fasting LTE Vow of Silence. He choose to come to us, paid his own way to see us, and preaches to us about passion. (so 99% of this...is his :] )
He tells of many things he sees in America: Spirit of Death, Obsession of the supernatural, the Church shying away form the supernatural, teens uninvolved with Christ, and much more. We all cried for youth to be more passionate about Christ, who redeems us from our sins and saved this world!
This past month has been incredible. Orange Block (the time leading up to the first LTE) was a pain! I couldnt enjoy sugar or Christian music, just worship. Worship is great unless you have only 3 albums, and listend to all of them 15 times over the first week...haha
But good news...its done! Im doing School of Worship. Learning how to create songs. Simple things to remember for worship songs vs normal songs!...actually i could use them for normal songs too haha.
My friends here...wow. They are slimming down in numbers. Not because they are friends, but my definition of a friend has changed. So, I honestly only have...*counting*...2 here lol. my AP and Kayla.
Work is ok. Not used to being on the phone for over 5 hours. haha. I can be personable, but shoo...This is a stretch haha.
Miss everyone in GA. LOVE YOU ALL!
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY and remember who we are passionate for as Christians :)
*Listening to: Showbread - Nervosa*
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Sacrificing the dearest things
Its not as bad as the title sounds, I promise.
I was at Big Bend this weekend, its a mountainous region/national park in Texas. 5-10 mi from Mexican Border. Hiking up this mountain to the peak showed me many things. I first saw the beauty for God's creation. Seeing how he made the plants, how the trees form themselves in various ways, etc. The more I saw it, the more in awe I was finding myself in. A state of worship so to say.
Then somewhere on the peak, a revelation hit...We are in a post-flood world.
It's 100% true. The whole earth was once covered in a flood that destroyed everything. Death was laid on the entire earth with water. Destruction happened to the "good" creation God did.
Now here is where Im getting slammed in the face in more awe...we see the Earth and say, "God your so amazing for creating this." Yet its a post-flood world. What I'm getting at is a thing called "Life from Death". It's a cycle the Earth follows. Plants have to die to produce life, and by that its through fruit and seeds. The older generation must die to allow the next generation to thrive. It's a cycle/law(if you must call it a law) the Earth follows.
The creation we see is how God made something beauty from death. Wonderful isn't it? My God is so big and strong, that He made beauty from destruction. WHOA.
My God is not something to undermine. I have found myself being convicted more and more when I dont praise God. Oddly enough, its not because of worship...its that my view of worship was so narrow. Its not just songs. Its not just guitar or hymns, or a leader who has awesome hair or great stage presence. Its giving glory to God for who He is. And I dunno about your Bible, but mine starts off with my God being a Creator in Genesis 1.
But its even deeper than that.
I just have begun to realize the deeper meaning of "dying to myself, and taking up my cross". If I have to die, I have to sacrifice myself. My life is laid on the line to be killed, destroyed, befriended to death walking hand in hand down a field of flowers (you getting the picture?). It no longer is going to be the same. That is the nature of death. If someone dies, they no longer remain the same. Am I right? Is my grandfather going to stay my grandfather, well working and fine tuned? No. He turns to dirt. Change.
So change occurs through death. When we die to ourselves, we open ourselves to be changed by the same God who created beauty through the flood. We turn to dirt when we die. And through the Living water of Christ, we turn to clay. From there we are moldable and formable. God takes on the role of Creator yet again. We need the water to stay moldable, the Word of God. Without it, we become hard. So water needs to remain in the dirt to remain clay. No dirt, no water, no clay. No death, no Christ, no change.
I was at Big Bend this weekend, its a mountainous region/national park in Texas. 5-10 mi from Mexican Border. Hiking up this mountain to the peak showed me many things. I first saw the beauty for God's creation. Seeing how he made the plants, how the trees form themselves in various ways, etc. The more I saw it, the more in awe I was finding myself in. A state of worship so to say.
Then somewhere on the peak, a revelation hit...We are in a post-flood world.
It's 100% true. The whole earth was once covered in a flood that destroyed everything. Death was laid on the entire earth with water. Destruction happened to the "good" creation God did.
Now here is where Im getting slammed in the face in more awe...we see the Earth and say, "God your so amazing for creating this." Yet its a post-flood world. What I'm getting at is a thing called "Life from Death". It's a cycle the Earth follows. Plants have to die to produce life, and by that its through fruit and seeds. The older generation must die to allow the next generation to thrive. It's a cycle/law(if you must call it a law) the Earth follows.
The creation we see is how God made something beauty from death. Wonderful isn't it? My God is so big and strong, that He made beauty from destruction. WHOA.
My God is not something to undermine. I have found myself being convicted more and more when I dont praise God. Oddly enough, its not because of worship...its that my view of worship was so narrow. Its not just songs. Its not just guitar or hymns, or a leader who has awesome hair or great stage presence. Its giving glory to God for who He is. And I dunno about your Bible, but mine starts off with my God being a Creator in Genesis 1.
But its even deeper than that.
I just have begun to realize the deeper meaning of "dying to myself, and taking up my cross". If I have to die, I have to sacrifice myself. My life is laid on the line to be killed, destroyed, befriended to death walking hand in hand down a field of flowers (you getting the picture?). It no longer is going to be the same. That is the nature of death. If someone dies, they no longer remain the same. Am I right? Is my grandfather going to stay my grandfather, well working and fine tuned? No. He turns to dirt. Change.
So change occurs through death. When we die to ourselves, we open ourselves to be changed by the same God who created beauty through the flood. We turn to dirt when we die. And through the Living water of Christ, we turn to clay. From there we are moldable and formable. God takes on the role of Creator yet again. We need the water to stay moldable, the Word of God. Without it, we become hard. So water needs to remain in the dirt to remain clay. No dirt, no water, no clay. No death, no Christ, no change.
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