Looking up.Stepping Out.

Be still and know that I am God

2011-10-11T13:01:00.003-05:00

I was going through some old photos, and when looking through some of these, I am reminded that for me, deer hunting isn't all about the deer. This blog could probably be named "Why I Hunt" because I love to deer hunt but more I love to spend time in God's creation, and have witnessed some really specatcular views while spending endless hours in a tree. Some of these have been some of the best moments of my life. See some of the views I have captured below. Most of these were not taken with a quality camera, but I think you will see what I am talking about. See what you are missing?

More importantly, as life continually becomes more and more hectic, I am challenged daily by the lyrics from Rush of Fools and Psalm 46:10 "be still and know that I am God". Pictures like this remind me of the types of things God is trying to show us, but we stay way too busy to experience his magnificence. Instead of "Why I Hunt", I am thinking more on the lines of "Why I Live" and I am soberly reminded in the moments like below, that it's not for the busyness.

What are you missing out on because you are too busy?

Losing Pants in Public = Epic Fail

2011-07-13T22:45:00.000-05:00

Tuesday started off like a normal day...after a very long night of work and life's issues, I finally made it to the couch, and after a few hours drug myself off the couch into the shower and back to the thesis lab.

A couple hours went by, went and met some friends for lunch, then had to run some errands. One of which was waiting on someone to scan some documents in for my thesis project. As I was standing there I felt a pop, about mid-waist, that only means one thing: I just popped a button. No big deal right? However...in my hurries, I had disregarded a belt. Once again, no big deal, still have a zipper, right?.....well... APPARENTLY I had not zipped my zipper...so right there in a split second I BARELY caught my shorts from falling down. And of course, about this time the man is asking me for my jump drive. And, his big German Sheppard saw the whole event and started barking (I think it was laughing) causing even more attention. So, I tactfully turned my back to the security camera, and when the workers weren't looking, buttoned back up...no time for the zipper, though, but my pride was so crushed at this moment, I was just happy to be walking out with my shorts around my waste and not my feet. When I got to the truck...I had a nice little laugh to myself. It was almost like God knew I could use a "laugh" to break this hard shell I was operating in. (Now I am left wondering if anyone will be posting it on YouTube in a few days....)

Just wondering if anyone can relate? What is YOUR most embarrassing moment? Come on now...be honest!!! You might make me feel better. Even if it is anonymous....

PDA in Church

2011-07-13T03:35:00.002-05:00

So, as any typical Sunday for many people, this past Sunday I slept through the early service and ended up going to the late service. I worked my way around and found a seat since I was a little late, but finally got situated and began to worship. However, I was quite distracted by some, maybe 15 or 16 year old's in front of me...well let's just say they were exercising a Public Display of Affection. Not in a really bad way...just one that really got me on the "judgement" bandwagon. I am probably the world's #1 Anti-PDA person....ESPECIALLY in church...

The rest of the service while Rusty was talking about Moses dealing with the stupidity of his people, and their inappropriateness, I was thinking the same about PDA in church, and how gross it is, uncalled for, etc....

Time came for the end of the service and I gave a "Here we go again" sigh as we started to stand and sing. I notice them once again holding hands. Something caught my eye though, I looked and noticed it was actually an entire family, and well, they were ALL holding hands, all 6 or 7 of them. It was a beautiful picture.

I can't get the image out of my mind. So often we as the body of Christ are disconnected. Abrasive. Private. Frankly, stuck up. We lack PDA. Not in a sense of affection for one another romantically. But this family displayed a sense of togetherness. Unity in worship. For one another and their God. For this moment, they put aside whatever typically separates people in worship. Their (the family, not the couple) PDA became a display of their affection to God. They displayed an attitude.

I haven't completed this thought, and am still trying to figure out why this struck me so hard, but I keep wondering what the body of Christ would be like if we came together and had a sense of PDA. What if we, as one body, had a higher level of public display of affection for the loving bond we share with our Savior? With one another through the love of Christ? What if we had a greater PDA for the lost Sheep? Think it would make a difference? What would our whorship be like with that same sense of unity? I'd love to hear any thoughts you have!

Missing Mom

2011-07-11T20:57:00.000-05:00

So, I don't know whether or not your mom is still here with us, but mine isn't. Today is her birthday. It's crazy how so many wonderful memories come to life on days such as this. So often I take my memory for granted, but today I am thanking God so much for the ability to retain those memories.

On top of that, I am so thankful for a mother's love. There is just not quite anything like it on this earth. Through love she taught me so much in just shy of 14 years, and I am still growing every day because of the love that she showed me. I look back to the times I pitched a fit or got mad at something she was trying to tell me, but now I can appreciate it, and hold on to those memories, hoping and praying that one day I can raise and teach my kids in that same way. However, this isn't a sob story. I know that she is in Heaven waiting until we reunite. Until then we will honor her memory.

So Mom, thank you. We love you and we miss you.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On a lighter note, I would like to wish my sister-in-law, Lindsey a Happy Birthday! We love you, and are praying for you tomorrow as we welcome Miss Morgan into the family!!!!

When Intuition Fails

2011-07-01T03:56:00.000-05:00

- direct perception of truth, fact, etc., independent of anyreasoning process; immediate apprehension.

- a fact, truth, etc., perceived in this way.

- a keen and quick insight.

I don't know if you have this problem, but all to often I find myself saying, "I thought..." after a situation or decision goes wrong.

I have a track record for attacking situations with a "conqueror" attitude, rather than a "servant" attitude. I allow positive attitudes of mercy and love to become driving forces to attempting to "fix the world's problems" or make everyone happy.

The conqueror attitude is when my intuition fails me; it is a quick-tempered response based on earthly knowledge, it's a mess. On the other hand, the servant attitude is living under the authority of Jesus, and being guided by the will of our Father.

We must "ask, seek, and knock," to receive this wisdom from God. James 1:5 says " If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."

When we begin to ask God for His wisdom, and begin to walk a path under his guidance and direction, our decision making is less about earthly perceptions, and more about divine intervention.

Why do I call it a divine intervention? Well, first off, out of a quick search, of over twenty transaltions I only found the word intuition mentioned once. In the NIV alone, apparently it appears well over 200 times. So, obviously we should be focused on wisdom. But another reason is this instead of making situations worse because I thought wrong, instead, I am able to love and encourage others in the way that Christ would. Is it a miracle from how I once made decisions and treated others? Yes. In attempting to do the right thing I have hurt, abandoned, confused, and pushed away those who love me because I thought I was doing what was warranted at that moment. Now, I am praying for God's wisdom as to how to reconcile the past, put it to rest, and move on to a "new way of doing things"

I'd like to close with this: Where are you right now? What are you doing? What decisions are you having to make, and what direction are you headed? As you think about these questions consider Ecclesiastes 7:12, and if wisdom is "a shelter" are you under it? If wisdom "perseveres those who have it" are you living, or dying?

I pray God will bless you with an abundance of His wisdom.

Rebuilding Together

2011-05-10T15:42:00.000-05:00

Saturday was a day I will remember for a long time, and I can't help but want to share the excitement with you.

Cornerstone Church joined with other organizations around the community to be a partner alonside a nationwide, non-profit group, Rebuilding Together. Please check out their "Our Focus" page to learn more about their mission and vision.

If you are a part of Cornerstone, you might have heard about this in the past few weeks, but an open invitation was extended to the whole church. The plan was to meet at this house from 8am-4pm. Leading into the day, the areas of work were yard work, deep cleaning, painting, and light carpentry. What we quickly realized though, was that this was no lite task! If you've ever seen "Extreme Makeover - Home Edition", that's more like what this was. It was amazing.

I had tried to mobilize the energy and muscles of the 11th and 12th grade high school small group I have the honor and privilege to lead. So, when we came rolling up at 10:00am, the group of 12 was a small army joining close to what seemed like a dozen or more volunteers already. The presence and outpouring of love through the service of so many was spectacular. There were so many volunteers there up until lunch time, that we were in each other's way. It was awesome. It was chaotic. It was a mess that only God can make sense of!

By the end we had accomplished painting of the entire interior of the home's walls and ceilings, deep cleaning of the house and appliances, new kitchen cabinetry, new molding and wall paneling throughout, renovated bathroom, and more. I apologize for not being able to provide the full list, but you get my point. It was a complete transformation.

But, perhaps the most transformation wasn't in the phyiscal property of the home, or even in the lives of the owners. I think the real Rebuilding was happening in the hearts and relationships of the volunteers. It's funny how God will do that isn't it?! We show up ready and willing to work for someone else, and all along He has brought us to that point so that He can shape, mold, transform, disciple and encourage us.

Late last night, I saw a tweet from one of the highschool guys that said ,"Pain is temporary, pride is forever! #cabinetcrewmotto" Teary-eyed, I remembered during the day seeing a team of the high school guys spend long amounts of time holding up heavy cabinets with weakened muscles in pain. This particular student has been on an incredible journey for the last few months, and to see in that moment, how God is placing him in His hands, and surrounding him, and unifying this group of young, dedicated believers was a Holy sight. In scripture, we are commanded to "love our neighbors as ourself" Gal. 5:14 and that is what this group of young men are doing. Once again, I stand in awe of God's ability to move in and through the lives of those who will surrender their wills to His service. So often I tell these guys, "I wish they could learn as much from me as I have from them." Once again they have taught me an invaluable lesson, and I praise God and His mighty glory for that. It is a beautiful site to see these young men being rebuilt, to be renewed and strengthened, and it's happening through the nature of their servant hearts.

So, I think we must all examine ourselves. Are we willing to step out of our element to serve Him? Will we step up the next time God puts the opportunity to serve in front of us? He's calling us into a relationship, a partnership - one that is characterized by rebuilding together. Here at Cornerstone, we're rebuilding together through our mission of "Leading people to know and serve Jesus." By making that mission my own, my own heart has been transformed more than I have had an impact on any other. He has rebuilt me from the ground up. I encourage you to come out the next time the opportunity presents itself to experience the same renewing love and grace that my friend and I have.

To Him Be the Glory!

Slagley

"Abide In His Love"

2011-04-21T17:28:00.005-05:00

First, I want to thank everyone for the kind words and support after my last post in March "In Memory of My Mom" (click to view). It was one of those precious gifts that I felt the need to share, and judging by the response, I am glad of that decision. I still thank my Grandma so much for holding on to that devotion all these years. I am so thankful for all of you, my family and my friends, for the roles you have had in shaping me into the person I am today.

Whether you have observed this season of Lent or not, Easter is quickly approaching. If you are not familiar with it, our church has been reading through a Lenten Reader, which is a daily devotional. The other day, Josh Agerton hosted the devotion on his blog "Abide" (click to view). (I stole the title from his post if you're wondering...)

I encourage you to read it. It was very encouraging to me. Loving others in a selfless manner is a high challenge, and as Josh said, we can never fulfill that...on our own. This Easter season I have been challenged to observe the manner in which I love others, and am seeking to abide in Him because I know at that point I will love others unconditionally and will no longer "let them down" because "Christopher isn't trying hard enough."

One thing I've said before and I stand by is this: "Those we love the most, hurt us the most. And the ones we love the most, we hurt the most." When we love someone, whether our family and friends, or dating, we make the mistake of expecting them to never hurt us. Because we know they love us, we expect things to be perfect, and when they aren't, we are confused, angered, disappointed, and ultimately hurt. It's almost like we expect others to love us like Christ, but we do not do the same. Maybe that's what Jesus was talking about when he said "Love your neighbors as yourself." in Matthew 22:39. But if you back up, what does he say first? "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." (verse 37). Which he follows by verse 38, "This is the first and greatest commandment." So often we get this in reverse. Because we love someone we seek God's love. When we are hurt, or hurt someone, we then look to God. Here, Jesus is saying to us, "You've got it backwards!" So often our relationships are like a baseball game where we hit the ball over the fence, run around the bases, end up back at home, and the home run never counting....because we ran the wrong way around the bases. We end up back at home in defeat, rejected, and then we slowly walk our way back to the dug-out, and never go back to that ball-park again.

But I hope you will join me this Easter in laying at the foot of the cross. Surrendering my pain, fear, failures, and "I'm not good enoughs" to the one who, as Josh said, "is simply inviting us to open up the channels of our souls and allow his grace to pour in and fill all the cracks." When we begin to allow Him to fill us, we will no longer have to "try", but instead it will be an overflow of His love in us. At the same time, He is calling us to pick up our cross, and move forward. At the foot of the cross all of our baggage - the hurts, pains, disappointments, and emotional walls are laid to rest, nullified, and washed away. And, on the other side of the Easter celebration, as we carry the cross with us, and leave the past behind, I can only imagine what Christ's love can do in and through us. It's the wonderful surrender so that in becoming less, I am more for you, Him, and most of all, His Kingdom.

Love isn't necessarily the easiest thing, but it is the most important. Don't take my word for it, Jesus said it. He's calling you back to the plate for another "at-bat". It's heading back to the plate in order to move forward in the right direction this time. It's the story of putting somethings in our lives to rest and digging others back out. It's becoming less so that He can become more. It's the story of redeeming love, mercy, forgiveness, and grace. It's Jesus saying "abide in me." It's the Easter story. The question is, will you go?

In Memory of My Mom

2011-03-17T09:00:00.001-05:00

A few months back, my grandma told me she had something for me. As I opened the envelope, I began reading a devotional my mom had written once for a published book back home. As I began to read it, I was reminded of the Godly woman she was, and the amazing influence she was on my life. This May will mark ten years sense she went to Heaven, but little memories like this make each day pass so much easier.

She dated this devotional "March 16, 1997" so, in her memory I re-publish it fourteen years later.

When I re-read this a few days ago, I sat in amazement. In the past two weeks God has given me the opportunity to speak from my heart to youth, and a key scripture was Matthew 7:7-9 stating how if we "ask....seek....knock" that God will answer. Here is testimony to God's loving grace available to all who seek Him with all their hearts, minds, and souls! I am overwhelmed by the fact that God has lain such a similar message on my heart and am thankful for this gift that brings joy to my heart each and every day.

Today, I remember her, and am thankful for the love she showed me. I do not doubt one second, that His love in me was directly impacted by the love and joy she lived with each and everyday.

So today, for all my friends and loved ones - you who I know are in the midst of pain and disappointment, to those of you who are running as hard as you can from where God intends you to be, and most importantly to those of you hiding a broken heart caused by seeking joy in other places - I pray this prayer for you:

"Dear God, help us not get caught up in the pain and disappointment of daily living, but to seek to serve you and reap abundant joy. Amen"

May you let down your walls and surrender your will so that His abundant joy can fill you.

In Him,

Christopher

Let me tell you about the Cornerstone Youth Super Bowl party...

2011-02-08T10:12:00.001-06:00

This wasn't just any Super Bowl party with chips, a big screen tv, and most importantly commercials. No, this was much bigger, had a much greater purpose, and will be having an impact for weeks to come.

At Cornerstone Church, there was a Super Bowl party for Cornerstone Youth, grades 7-12. Call us brave, but we scheduled the time from 5-9. On top of that, we had different areas set up for food, video games, the game, and biggest of all, the inflatables. The bungee run, and two obstacle courses transformed our worship space into a fun filled adventure.

After hundreds of hamburgers, hot dogs, candy bars, and highly caffeinated drinks, when the night was over, we looked around and said, "Man, this was good." I'd like to give you a few reasons why:

1.) Our students stepped up to a challenge. We challenged them to invite their friends. And, to give them a little incentive, we told them that if they got over 100, then three of their youth leaders would be pied in the face. Do you know what that means? Well first off, it means three leaders will be pied in two weeks. But it also means, that in one night, our average group of 65 nearly doubled themselves. We are so proud of these students for stepping out and stepping up. We recognize it's not all about the numbers, but it is about the lives to be changed.

2.) It was FUN. So often church has the persona of being mundane and boring, but this was a blast. There is something that can be said for good, fun, fellowship. Better yet, it was fellowship with a purpose. We were able to reach out to a group of students that perhaps might not ever walk through the door of our church on a normal occasion. This event led us one step further along our mission of "Leading People [Youth] to Know and Serve Jesus." Best part is that our students were the ones furthering the kingdom and being a part of something bigger than themselves, whether they realized it or not.

3.) This will kick off our new series for the next few weeks and hopefully connect some new students with Cornerstone Youth and our small groups.

4.) It was an incredible display of the passion our church leadership has for the lives of these students. Allen Whittaker, our youth pastor, put in many long hours over the past weeks pulling together the details. Even Allen and Rusty got a good competition in on the inflatables. I am so proud of our leadership and their example. A group of dedicated college students weren't just there, they engaged the students and were hot, and sweaty from the inflatables and really dove into the lives of these students (literally!). Most importantly, thank you to the hours of hard work and presence of our parents. We could not have done this without you!

So, get ready for 2012. This event will come again. But until then, we look forward to tomorrow night, and look forward to use this momentum to impact the lives of more students. If you'd like to see a quick recap of the nights events, check out the video on the Cornerstone Youth Facebook page here. If you aren't a member, you definitely should join!

To all those who made this happen flawlessly, thank you.

Colossians 3:23-24 "23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

5 Reasons I love my church: @cornerstonebuzz

2011-01-31T10:28:00.003-06:00

Last October, God sent me halfway around the world with a team from Cornerstone Church to our partner church in Buloba, Uganda, Africa. Buloba has a fraction of the material possessions and infrastructure that we are surrounded by back home, but God really used that to speak to me about how more times than not, it's the simple things that matter. I really saw that less is more. One area since my return that I have been thinking about is church. Too often we make church about us, and are way too critical of the people, the leaders, the facility, the music, the location, and the style.

I am not saying that different churches aren't a different fit for different people. I also am not saying that the above elements are not key factors when searching for a church home. All I am saying is that once we do find a church home, so often it still isn't "good enough" in our standards. We must find something to complain, bicker, or gossip about. I don't know how we judge a church like a person, but we find a way to do it! For some reason we expect the church to be perfect. But, we must be reminded that we make up the church, and if we aren't perfect, then it won't be either. So, to reverse this trend in my own life, I am going to focus on the little things that matter. Here, I started with a list of five reasons I love my church:

1.) God is there

2.) People love Jesus

3.) It's about who Jesus is, not what I wear

4.) I am greeted with a smile each Sunday

5.) My pastors are passionate about the church's mission.

This list does not include all the reasons I love my church. But, when all is stripped away, these are at the core of why I feel it is the fit for me. No matter what your experience with church is, don't make my mistake and get caught up in things that don't matter. Why do you love your church?

"Short, but Sweet"

2011-01-02T22:49:00.000-06:00

Have you ever seen the movie Rudy? It happens to be my favorite movie, and when I think of the phrase "Short, but sweet" I can't help but to be reminded of the very end, when the crowd is chanting, "Rudy. Rudy. Rudy." Take a look for yourself.

The last :27 seconds that he plays can't be described any better than "short, but sweet". But, does this phrase mean anything to you in relation to your life? When I use or hear this phrase, it is typically describing something of significance. For instance, "That wedding was short, but sweet." or when someone gives an important speech or sermon. I have to be careful though, because sometimes it gives light to my selfishness and impatience. We are willing to listen to a good sermon for 28 minutes, but if it last more than 30 then it is no longer "short, but sweet".

How often do we consider life "short, but sweet"? If we use this phrase to describe a short period of time packed with good, shouldn't our lives model that? I mean, last time I checked, our days are numbered, and none of us are gaining time. So what I am asking myself is, "When I die, will people describe my life as 'short, but sweet'"? Will they look at it and say, "Man, he wasn't here long but while he was, he really made an impact."? Better yet, will I have used my short time here wisely?

I look at the story of fifteen year old Nathan Johnson (click for link to story) who was tragically killed in a car accident. He led more people to Christ in eight years than many of us will in a lifetime, and his legacy is still having an impact. Or what about sixteen year old Staci Stephens (click for link to her story), who not only impacted her school, but is affecting thousands around the world. Their premature deaths are tragic, but when I read about their lives and their faith, "short, but sweet" takes a whole new meaning.

Most importantly, I look at the life of Jesus. His sermons, parables, prayers, and, ultimately, his life were all "short, but sweet." He didn't make up excuses, procrastinate, or ramble on and on. He came to this earth, lived a perfect life, set an example for us to follow, and was crucified to save us. In the big picture, the span of 35+/- years is just a spec in time, but He was able to change the lives of those who believe and the course of this world forever.

Over the next few weeks, Cornerstone Church will be in a series named "Time". I pray that you will journey along with us as we look to discern how God has intended us to live during our time on this earth. If you aren't able to join us in person, you can download or subscribe to podcasts at this link.

"Tommy Boy" Syndrome

2011-01-01T21:00:00.001-06:00

Welcome to 2011. As we ring in the new year, and people are making all kinds of resolutions (most of which will be forgotten before February comes around), I'd like to share something that's been on my heart for some time.

Have you ever seen Tommy Boy? Particularly the part where David Spade (Richard) and Chris Farley (Tommy) are driving down the road and hit the deer? Pretty bad situation. That's just the beginning though; rather than leaving the dead deer on the side of the road, they decide to take it with them in the back seat of Richard's classic convertible on to their sales meeting. What exactly they planned on doing with it, I am not sure, but they "thought" it was the right thing. Things don't go very well, and later while driving down the road, the "dead" deer awakes and absolutely destroys the car, followed by a triumphant departure from atop the mangled car. To make matters worse, as a result of Richard's criticism, and his own shame, Tommy develops a "I'm not good enough" mindset, and eventually has a meltdown in the office of a perspective client.

I don't know about you, but so often I get caught up in the moment, or in a situation, and let it get the best of me, not just in emotions, but spiritually as well. Whether I am in the wrong, or have been hurt by someone else, rather than accepting it for what it is and offering forgiveness, I try to exert my will, control, and force and it results in a mistakenly created monster. If Tommy and Richard would have left the deer and moved on, so much drama and damage could have been avoided. So often we get wrapped up in our stubborn pride, that we feel we can reverse or right a wrong. And as if that isn't enough damage already, we administer the final blow by entangling ourselves in a heap of chains by indulging in self-induced torture of blame, shame, guilt, feeling insignificant,etc.

Now that we have bound ourselves in chains, we often ignore the event, give up, and bathe in a pool of self-pity and despair. We take the attitude that we have failed, and that our efforts have resulted in worthlessness. Just the other night, I had a friend text me, "I'm not good enough for anyone. The end." Referring to their struggles as if it is the end of the story - end of the road. Each time I hear someone whether a close friend, youth, or complete stranger say the words, "I'm not good enough", it breaks my heart because I can relate, I have been there. More importantly, I know that God is deeply saddened, not because of our wrong, but because of the unnecessary pain and despair we are inflicting upon our hearts.

This is when we must remember our faith in the victory of the Gospel, and replay the real story, the one that is not over, but that is unfolding each and every day. The story of a Savior who came to rescue us from our sins, pain, failure, doubts, worry, fear, etc. And, we must cleanse ourselves of this idea that we are in control, and flee from any hint of self-righteousness. Isaiah 61:10 displays the attitude we should have, "I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness" The keyword in this verse is HIS. It has nothing to do with us. If it did, well, we would be nothing, but because of the victory that we share in Christ, we have been saved and live eternally in HIS righteousness.

As you encounter life's up's and down's that lie ahead in 2011, join me in this challenge - don't fall ill with the "Tommy Boy" Syndrome and make matters worse, by declaring "The end". Don't run away from problems or people you have hurt/have hurt you. Instead find hope in Paul's words in Romans 8: Life Through the Spirit - "we are more than conquerors". No matter the situation clothe yourselves in Christ's strength Paul refers to in Philipians 4:13. Seek reconciliation, offer forgiveness, and do not let Satan deceive you into thinking you aren't good enough any longer. Just as he tricked Eve and Adam, when we enter into this place we are full of shame, and in that moment, are living in a way that acts as if our joy in Christ is not sufficient. Let's try to put our selfishness to rest, and instead of masking Christ's love behind self-criticism and blame, let's start sharing this redeeming love with others. I can only imagine what Christ can do in and through us if we allow him to heal us and use our transformation as a testimony to his glory.

As I remember a line from a song, "My chains are gone, I have been set free." I rejoice because in the moment of hurt and defeat, I know the story doesn't end in failure, instead, I have been blessed in a flood of redemption and grace. Whatever trial or struggle that has you feeling brokenhearted, please find strength and encouragement in Romans 5:

1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us...8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Stay Strong

9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12

Two Weeks

2010-10-29T00:48:00.002-05:00

It is crazy to think that we have been home from Uganda for two weeks. It seems like just last night we were on the ground spending times with our partners sharing the Gospel and love of Christ with a community.

Each day, I am in thought and prayer for our dear friends at Buloba Community Church and I pray that you too will lift them up to our Father. Our friends are in the trenches, fighting through trials and tribulations, staying strong in the faith and reaching out to community that has been far to separated from the love of Christ.

In this short time that we have been back, God has done so much as a result of our trip and is continuing to teach and show me His glory in it all. I am forever humbled by the opportunity to spend ten days with an incredible team serving a mighty God and being so blessed to witness Him changing lives.

Just a couple of the highlights that I believe have been a result of this trip that I believe are the beginning of many more...
1.) ALL of the children in the Buloba project for ARM have been sponsored and we have a waiting list for more children to be added to the project! AMEN!!!
2.) My teacher, as a way to makeup for missed class time, had me to present to my class today our trip, the purpose of it, and what it meant to me. So, not only did God bless me in the ability to go, He even created an incredible opportunity for me to testify the amazing work He is doing and share what He has done in my heart to a group of forty of my peers, some of which do not know the Lord, and it was an amazing opportunity to answer their questions.
3.) God has laid Buloba on our hearts. We are so grateful to be a part of His movement. Lives are being saved, a community is being improved, and tomorrow's faithful leaders of Uganda are being raised up in the child sponsorship program. At home, it seems that more and more people are seeing God's work and He is moving in their heart, and they are answering His call in the Great Commission and are ready to Go.

So much happened in ten short days. So much more has happened in the fourteen days since we returned. The word that describes this partnership and the future of God's glory to be displayed in it and the lives that have yet to be saved is: Expectant.

A common theme of the trip is on my heart as I sign of: "God is good, all the time; All the time, God is good."

Buloba: Day 7 - Saying Goodbye

2010-10-12T15:16:00.001-05:00

Our week in Buloba has come to a close. This week has had a lot of sweat and some blood shared by members of this partnership for the Gospel, and this week ended with tears. Leaving Buloba and saying goodbye was not an easy task. Are we sad to go? Well, the answer to that question is most definitely yes. However, are we full of joy and excitement for what has happened and what the future might hold? Absolutely.

We know that this relationship is in Christ, and that means regardless of our lives, or where we call home, we will continue on as brothers and sisters in Christ. The other day, Rusty made a comment that really resonated with me. He was talking about how this partnership -made up of people of different countries, skin colors, etc. was a picture of what Heaven will look like. We are all one in Him. And as we sat there for one last prayer today, I couldn’t help but think that we were only saying temporary goodbyes, especially when looking into Joel‘s eyes. The friendship between me and that little guy is an amazing blessing from God.

It is amazing, that we as a team do not feel like we are completing a mission trip, but rather we are leaving our friends, very dear friends who we love, and will always have a inseparable relationship in Christ. We have faith that where one door closes, another awaits to be revealed. We have hope to return and see our friends again, but know that even if we don’t, our friends are praying for us, and we too are praying for them.

It is so hard to sum up the emotions from today, and recap this week. A lot of that will take time. However, it is safe, and easy to say that this has been an amazing trip. The team has meshed together in such a way that you would think we have lived with each other for years. The partnership has served God by serving this community and deferring all glory to the One deserving of such. We have poured out love to one another, and this community. We have witnessed the Holy Spirit at work, and have been able to see lives changed. By His grace and mercy, we have been given endurance, strength, wisdom, and many other blessings. He has kept us healthy, and free from harm’s way. What an amazing journey it has been!

So, tonight we will wind down and pack our bags. Tomorrow we will eat breakfast, head to the market for a bit and then grab lunch. After, we will be back to the house for a last shower and hopefully short nap before making the journey home. We ask that your pray over our travels, and continue to lift up our brothers and sisters in Christ at Buloba Community Church. God is doing some amazing things here, and we have been humbled and blessed to witness some of his great works.

While the work hear advances on, we will see you all back home soon.

In Him,

Christopher

Buloba: Day 6

2010-10-11T13:57:00.001-05:00

Greetings from Uganda! Today was great, but it was a HOT day. We started out in two teams. One team checked out some various spots and took some time photographing and videoing different things. The other team went and worked on rain catch systems.

We got off to a good start, and the first two went very well. But, we decided to try one more before lunch and it ended up being a challenge! We tried over and over to get the right slope on the gutter so that it would send water the correct direction. What we finally realized was that the whole building and roof was sloped the other direction! We definitely learned multiple lessons from this ordeal, but mainly that we aren’t always right and regardless of what we think we know, sometimes we need to take a deep breath and look at the bigger picture. Definitely can apply that to daily life..

After being overrun by some excited children we were able to get a quick lunch at the church, and then it was back out for two more. We were short on time because we knew traffic would be very long if we didn’t leave as soon as we were finished. Once again, Amy and Becky presented the Gospel, and explained that we were there pouring out the love Christ has shown us. Once again, the Holy Spirit was at work before we arrived and this lady came to accept Christ into our heart, and another life has been saved. Our God is amazing, and we were so blessed to witness His glory in realtime.

As we were getting ready to leave, a dump truck got stuck in the ditch that was our only route back to the main road. So, after a few minutes with some hoes trying to fill the ditch back in, we made it through and went off to one more house before calling it a day.

Thankfully, we made it back safely and have showered and are winding down before dinner. Other than a few red faces from this equator sun, we have once again come away from another blessed day and are so thankful for this opportunity.

The week has flown by, and tomorrow is our last day in Buloba. We are trying to look forward to one more big day of rain catch systems before saying our good bye’s. It is going to be hard to say bye to Joel, the child I sponsor - he now calls me Uncle Christopher. But the team knows that the same love that enables us to sponsor them, is the same love that brought us to Uganda to visit them, and we know that same love will be with us as we leave and come back to Auburn.

We love and miss you, and can’t wait to come home to share what God has done in and through us, and hopefully encourage some of you to come visit our friends here one day.

Please pray the Holy Spirit will go before us and prepare safe and blessed final day.

In Him,

Amy, Aric, Becky, Christopher, Dan, Rusty, Saramia, and Scott

Buloba: Day 5

2010-10-10T10:06:00.011-05:00

Scroll to the bottom of the page for photos(Remember to click to enlarge)!

Today was once again a blessing from God. We have been going non-stop all day, but it has been so nice. We started off the morning to wonderful news that Auburn won, and to a huge surprise, Alabama lost. After checking scores, it was time to get ready to head to Gaba Community Church.

Gaba Community Church is a large church just outside of Kampala, and is an outstanding body of Believers. Gaba has approximately 180 plant churches in Uganda, multiple other ministries, but the one we are all most familiar with is ARM of Africa Renewal Ministries which is the organization that controls all of the child sponsorships projects including Buloba.

At Gaba we enjoyed about an hour of worhip quite similar to that of Cornerstone, and then it was off to Buloba. It was almost like a full day of services at Cornerstone, but instead there was an hour drive between the two services.

When we arrived at Buloba, the service was just getting started. It was amazing to see this church packed with children and adults alike. It truly was a wonderful site. We were able to hear children’s choirs from the church, and the Buloba project, and then two choirs of the church. This was followed by worship and this led up to Rusty’s preaching of the Word. He taught on God’s faithfulness and used the story of Nehemiah. After church we had another quick lunch.

We spent the afternoon walking through the rural areas around the church visiting the families of the children we sponsor. I wish I could describe the feeling of sitting in their home, and being able to know more about them and pray over them. If any of you reading this sponsor a child, it is indescribable how amazing and how much of a blessing it is to walk hand and hand with this child or spend time in their home. I have posted a picture of me walking with Joel and a dear friend of ours over here, David. Today is a day that I and my team are sure to never forget.

Perhaps the most amazing time today was when Joel’s grandmother asked for us to read Matthew 25:35-40. Please go read it, and while you do realize that Cornerstone’s partnership with Buloba is carrying the image of this illustration of the gospel. It was difficult for the team to hold back tears as I read this scripture.

After walking around for hours, and through the emotions of joy, we are all worn out now that the day is winding down. We just enjoyed another amazing dinner by Julie and Theona, and are now going to sit here reflect on the day. It is so hard to convey all these thoughts, but the best we as a team right now can say is:

1.) God is good all the time. All the time, God is good.
2.) We are so blessed to be here in Uganda witnessing God’s work and being a part of something greater than us.
3.) We have seen that when the Bible talks of going to all nations, that the gospel, and this faith is the same living faith all over the world. It is growing everywhere, and the gospel is progressing. America and Uganda both share in having the same “hope of nations.”

So, as you can see today was an amazing display of God’s goodness. As a team, we are pretty worn out and tired from the day, but the amazing things God allowed us to witness today is giving us strength and endurance. Tomorrow, we have another big day of rain catch systems and visiting the families of other team member’s sponsor children. So as we are getting ready for bed and winding down, please enjoy your lunch and pray for our team and Buloba. Pray that God will continue to rain his blessings upon us and grant us the strength and endurance to continue on. Also, pray that the malaria medication will be a little easier on some of our stomach’s. We ask that the Holy Spirit is and will continue to work in the lives of the families we visit tomorrow.

In Him

The Team

Buloba: Day 4

2010-10-09T12:14:00.007-05:00

Greetings from Uganda! What a wonderful day God blessed us with. I hope the weather back in Alabama was as beautiful as the day we had today. Once again we truly witnessed the amazing work of the Holy Spirit today.

In Buloba, today was called Center Day. This is a day full that would strongly resemble what we normally do in Vacation Bible School. The children from the whole Buloba project, all 300 plus some extras, come to the church for worship, learning, Biblical teaching, scripture memorizations, games, and they are also fed two meals. Our team spent the first half of the day playing with children, sitting in on the learning classrooms, helping serve meals, and absolutely loving some children. After a quick team lunch of a pb&j, banana, boiled egg, and water, we went out to put on few more rain catch systems.

Today we went farther down the road from the church, across a swamp, and back into a rural area. The first house was an old lady, her father, daughter, and many children. They were very joyful to receive us. As we were working, they provided a jackfruit for us and some water, unfortunately we couldn’t drink the water. However, at this house today, there was someone drinking water, but not H20, they were drinking the living water spoken of in John 4:14. They daughter of the house attended the church, but the mother did not so it was a wonderful time.

The day was amazing getting to serve these children and this community while partnering with Buloba Community Church. Each we have had the incredible blessing to see God’s work in and through this faithful body of believers. Please enjoy the photos; they can give such a better description of the day than my words. Tomorrow morning we will have a long day of worshiping first in Gaba, then in Buloba. After that we will get to go visit our sponsored child’s family in their homes. We are so excited for this opportunity.

The team is doing great, and we have been resting well and staying healthy. Please pray that God will continue to lead us and prepare the way. He is at work here, and we are so humble to be working and witnessing lives being changed.

To Him be the glory.

Enjoy the photos below. sorry they are small, but they are easier to upload. Click on it to enlarge it!

Buloba: Day 3

2010-10-08T11:01:00.010-05:00

Day three in Buloba was as amazing as the first couple. Our goal today was to get out to Buloba early and get started on the rain catch systems so that we could get back before the Friday afternoon traffic got to a standstill. Luckily, we did make it back in time, but not before getting covered in some red clay so native to Alabama!

When we arrived in Buloba the materials were ready for us to head to the houses and start working. The first house we worked on was a 78 year old woman, and this lady was dancing and singing with joy. As we were finishing up that house, two of our team members, Amy and Becky, were talking to the next woman. As they were talking to her, they were able to be in the presence of her and the Holy Spirit when she accepted Christ in her heart. Rusty summed it simply, “That’s why we do what we do.”

It was awesome for the team to see God using us to share the love of Christ with others, and through that another child being saved by that same redeeming love of Christ. In the same sense, it was very humbling, and we were once again reminded that it is not us, but Him in us and working through us.

After lunch, and over an hour of Ugandan rain (makes an Alabama rain look like a drizzle) we were able to go back out and install two more catch systems for less-able elders of the church. In all, it was an incredible opportunity to work alongside members of the local church and serve this community.

In the next days, only God knows what lies ahead. However, we are expectant of what is to come, and will continually pray that the Holy Spirit will go before us to the next four homes; and that the people we love by installing these catch systems won’t see “Mozungus” (white people) putting on a gutter, but that they may see we are there sharing the abundance of love that Christ has blessed us with.

Tomorrow we will be at the church celebrating “Center Day” at the church where all kids of the church will be coming with families to celebrate and have fellowship. We hope to rest well tonight, because we know that there will be a whole lot of running and playing with the children tomorrow.

We are so thankful for the amazing spread of home-cooked, local Ugandan food that our hosts just prepared for us in this wonderful guest house in Kampala! We also were able to celebrate Aric’s birthday, and since we were surprised, the only gift we had was Dan’s cherished strawberry cookies that he was so excited to pick up. (He swore that only foreign countries have the best ) These times of fellowship among our team are such a blessing, and it is so nice to spend time reflecting on how God is moving and working in and through this partnership of Buloba Community Church and Cornerstone Church.

Please pray that God will continue to bless this trip, and use us for His glory.

Buloba: Day 2

2010-10-07T15:16:00.002-05:00

Today was a wonderful day here in Uganda. We were able to visit many different places, and witness some amazing things God is doing in and through some of His faithful servants.

We started the day touring Gaba church which is home to Africa Renewal Ministries. We got to see how and where all the logistics of child sponsorships are organized, and the faces who make this thing happen. They had high praises for Cornerstone Church, and the commitment this body of believers has had to Buloba Community Church. It was a great opportunity to defer all praise and glory to God, and at the same time express how this partnership is impacting our church back home.

After touring, we headed across an inlet of Lake Victoria to Bethany Village. The boat ride was awesome, and then we were transported on the back of a “boda-boda”. (photos of this to follow tomorrow!) I wish I could give you a full synopsis of what all Bethany is about, but in short, Bethany is place for children who have no family or place to stay. Currently there are approximately 475 children ranging from 3-19. Here, these children live in a group home, approximately 15 children, that also have a mother or a married couple that raise and nurture these children. As a part of this living arrangements, these children have a very structured environment that leads them in devotions, growing their own food in a garden, house chores, picking fruit from an plethora of fruit trees, and they spend the rest of their day in school. In addition, they have a church and nurses.

A huge part of this success is due to the living sacrifice of a man named Francis. This guy is a father figure that loves these children in a very big way, having a huge impact on these students. What is more important in that he believes in these children and that they are growing up the next Christian leaders of Uganda. So often we let life’s circumstances get in the way, or distract us from God’s calling. Here, we can learn a lesson from Francis, a guy handicapped to a wheel chair, gets around a large area that has no paved paths, covered in rocks and ruts - but he overcomes, and has the respect of these children and others because of his devotion and passion. This guy has a big heart, and is truly shining a light and impacting the lives of children and encouraging others.

After we had an incredible experience at Gaba, we went on to visit Buloba. Rusty did an amazing job walking through the scripture and teaching of our duty to serve inside the church and outside the church. It was a great message, that led into an amazing time of partnering in service. Below you will see a picture of a body of believers painting lumber for our rain water collection systems we will be starting tomorrow. Such a beautiful view of a challenge from Rusty to serve being answered by two churches, in partnership for the glory of God.

So, as you can see, we have had a very busy, wonderful, and exhausting day. To top it off, because things were going so well at Buloba, we left late and got stopped in “rush hour” coming back into Kampala. After two and a half hours, we were finally back at the guest house enjoying an amazing meal prepared by our hosts. After a little bit of time reflecting on the day, we all just were very blessed by this day and amazed by the wonderful things we witnessed God doing in this country.

Tomorrow, we will be working alongside Buloba Community Church out in the community installing these rain collection systems. Please pray for safety of the members and that God will give us wisdom and knowledge to do the physical work, and that the Holy Spirit works in and through us and prepare the way for us to share the love of Christ with these homes.

Buloba: Day 1

2010-10-06T15:21:00.003-05:00

Greetings from Buloba! I wanted to harness this opportunity where the internet was working to share with you a little about what is happening down here.

First, our God is amazing, and blessed this team with an incredible trip. The twenty-six hour journey from Auburn to Buloba, Uganda was free of any and all trouble, and everyone one the team was very fortunate to not suffer from “jet-lag.” So, everyone is feeling well and healthy, and in great shape to perform the works that God has prepared for us to partner alongside Buloba Community Church.

Second, today we were able to make it to Buloba after lunch, and experience an amazingly warm welcome, that words can not adequately describe. The friendly smiles, the joyful hugs, the cheerful laughter of the children as absolutely a result of God’s love being shared among brothers and sisters in Christ. To be back, after a year, seems like it was just yesterday that we were here, and I had no problem remembering the faces and names. However, I did not expect anyone in Buloba, or the support team the so kindly hosts us, transports us, translates, and absolutely everything else we could ever need. But, when we pulled up, it was as if I had been here for weeks, and that warm welcome, so far from home, was very, very special. It really made me realize that Cornerstone is not here for a one time trip and that be the end of our involvement, but just as Paul did with so many of his letters, we are building relationships and continually loving and supporting us in this mission that Christ brought down from Heaven.

Third, after we had embraced the church elders and had a wonderful reunion, I heard one of the teachers at the Buloba ptoject say my name. Which in itself was such a surprise, but, as I was turning around, I heard, “This is Joel.” It could have been a dream! But, when I looked down, here was the face of a child that I had seen on a card and immediately fell in love with and wanted to support. So, Grandma, if you read this, thank you so much for helping support Joel. I gave him many large hugs today for you, and have posted these photos. It is amazing the relationship I have with Joel. We haven’t known each other long, but through Christ and the faith we share in Jesus Christ, Joel will always have a supporter and encourager 8,000 miles away in “Albama” (how Ugandans say Alabama). I look so forward to spending more time with Joel in the next five days and am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing here.

Fourth, after we came home, and were sitting around as a team, talking, reflecting on the day, a friend of the past teams named Almos stopped by. Almos is an incredibly blessed artist and I got chills upon seeing an oil painting of his. You will just have to wait until I return to see it for yourself!

Anyways, as you see, it has been amazing thus far and we are continually praying God will work in and through us these next few days.

In Him,

Christopher

Just Quit

2010-05-26T22:11:00.004-05:00

Do you have a routine you SHOULD quit? I know it's a weird question but just stick with me for a minute. Recently I have been out of town working and this is an entirely new experience. I am not used to living out of a hotel room, staying in a city where I do not know folks, and ultimately being alone from the time I get off work until I go back the next day. However, in just a few short days, God has really spoken to me.

The main way is the fact that every single one of my "normal" routines have been broken. Whether they are based on a week, month, or years, I have experienced a huge lifestyle change and it has been radically constructive. The monotony of routines can cause us to lose track or consciousness of what is at stake. Our "busy" routines of shopping, working, getting meals, reading our Bible, doing laundry, watching our tv shows, etc, instead of being parts of our daily lives become more of a burden, and we are consumed with the time and amount causing stress. I think back to the Beatitudes, particularly "blessed are the peacemakers" and ultimately, a routine is designed to create peace and ease, however, in our lives today, we simply use routines to schedule the chaos of our daily lives.

I think of how many times I have sat down and tried to keep a routine of reading the Bible cover to cover, as part of a routine. My problem is that this routine becomes more about creating a habit of reading a book than experiencing God's living word, and allowing Him to teach and guide me through it.

Similarly with prayer. We are constantly hammered with creating a "quiet time" at morning or night. Assuming that the routine of such will make it more intimate; however, in this sense it becomes just another task of the day and another item on the list to check off. The only thing accomplished by setting the time aside is being deliberate, and seeking to avoid some other form of distraction.

Over the past few days, I have noticed some things:
1.) In this quiet place, reading the Bible and seeking Truth is much more desired than turning on the junk that I would find on the tv.
2.) Instead of setting aside the quiet time just in the morning or evening, I catch myself in the morning looking at a passage or two while drinking some coffee and killing time before work (actually killing time in this sense is seeking to save time eternally!), at lunch when I come home, instead of flipping channels, I flip a few passages, and at night, I don't even turn the tv on, I actually have been reading through the book our next church series is focused on.
3.) I have quit praying on my schedule of in the morning, at meals, and at bedtime. This sounds bad, yes, I agree, but actually, in a new location, setting, and environment, there are fewer distractions, and I feel that throughout the day I have a continual relationship with God, talking or "praying ceaselessly" to him.

These are just three examples, but this has really been an enlightening experience. I often get so caught up in routines that I lose site of the importance, or in some instances, I try to "be good" and read my Bible at this time, and pray at the times, etc., and it becomes less about a relationship with God, and more similar to a to-do or grocery list.

So, these past few days, God has really been challenging to look at routines in a new way, and currently, he is telling me to throw what I have in the trash can. It has been such a blessing that was disguised before, but God is good, all the time, and I am going to quit having a routine of when and where to talk to God, and instead take each step with Him. I encourage you to try it and pray it can bless you as it has blessed me.

As a little side note, I started looking up some scriptures, and Jesus and his disciples were all about breaking some routines. For example fishing turning into walking on water, or a routine burial or stoning turning into Life, perhaps the routine Crucifixion of a criminal results in Life, not death, and there are so many more! David did not routinely fight giants, Noah didn't routinely build colossal ships, and Ruth would not routinely go lay and sleep at the feet of a man. But in all these places, God used what was not normal to reveal His glory and power. Sometimes we need to just quit with our on wishes, our pride, our routines, our plans, and our selfishness, and allow God to reveal his glory to us in new ways.

What Hope is Yours?

2010-05-16T21:35:00.007-05:00

Last week I had the amazing opportunity to speak to our youth at Cornerstone, and I am quite sure that each time, I end up learning more than them. The past semester we have spent in Ephesians, and these past weeks we have been rooted in the Armour of God. The question that God left me with is, "Where is your hope that matters?"

This Wednesday we talked about the Helmet of Salvation. And, quite honestly, at first, I was struggling to hear what God was speaking in my heart to share with these youth. Preparation was a journey that went way off topic, but God always has a way of bringing things back to Him, whether it is a few minutes or thousands of years. And, the key verse that I came across that really began to dig deep in my own heart, and convict me at the core of my life each day spoke of the hope of salvation. In 1 Thessalonians 5:8 Paul says, "But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet."

The word that really stuck out was hope. I don't know about you, but I often "hope" that my clothes are dry when I go to get them out of the dryer. Or I "hope" that it won't be too hot out at surveying camp. I "hope" I will do good at school, work, relationships, teaching, etc. As I began to think about this idea of the "hope of salvation" I began to compare the majority of things that I "hope" for on a daily basis. I was convicted when I realized that most of the things I hope for are only about me, my well-being, and comfort. I do not spend every day hoping in salvation because I take for granted that I I have been saved and am now a Christian- living in this false idea that salvation is complete.

I have been saved by the blood of Jesus, but I do not continually hope in the work of Christ's salvation to the day that salvation is complete. Not just now and in this time, but in the point that I can return to a world God created for me, holy and perfect, with no sin or pain. At that point my hope of salvation will be complete, and in that lies all the hope I need. These daily hopes about laundry, traffic, sleep, etc. are about me, and are selfish and do not glorify God.

It is upon my heart to not doubt God anymore in trivial circumstances such as hoping the light doesn't turn red in front of me ( by merely saying that, I expect it to happen ). However, my hope in one day being reunited with my Creator is the hope of my life and without it I am an empty shell, wasting away in time. My prayer has been to ask God to make me aware of the selfish hopes I have, and to cover my head constantly in the hope of salvation. Sometimes things happen to us and we try to make sense of it. We live in a pessimistic world, where earthly desires consume our heart and cause us to lose touch with the real hope of to us through the death and resurrection of Christ.

I think of those that have lost all hope, even to the point that they are angry towards God. Or others who have had a tragic event happen in their life, or perhaps a loved one who has lost all hope and taken their own life. Whatever it might be that their circumstance is, if I am hoping in what's for lunch, or in a good parking spot at Wal-mart, then I am doing nothing to lead them to know and serve Jesus Christ. The hope of salvation is the fuel for our faith throughout life, and constantly allows us to keep our eyes on Christ and seeking him. My mission and challenge is to live a life wearing the hope of salvation as a helmet everyday, and sharing true hope with all that I encounter. This work doesn't need me to tell them I'm sorry they had a bad day, they need Jesus, and they need the hope that is given to us through his salvation. I have been challenged to live a life of true hope and offer that challenge to you.

Spring of Life

2009-11-22T22:05:00.003-06:00

This is a video that compiles pictures and videos from my recent trip to Uganda to visit our partner church in spreading the Gospel.

Seven - 7

2009-11-04T15:51:00.002-06:00

Seven is a big number: just think about all of the different sevens...

"Seven days of Creation (Genesis 1). God rested on and sanctified the seventh day (Sabbath)
Seven years of plenty and seven years of famine in Pharaoh's dream (Genesis 41)
Seven days of the feast of Passover (Exodus 13:3-10)
Seven day week and the pattern concerning distribution and use of manna (Exodus 16)
Seven year cycle around the years of Jubilee (Leviticus 25)
The fall of the walls of Jericho on the seventh day after marching around the city seven times(Joshua 6)
Seven things the LORD hates (Proverbs 6:16-19)
Seven loaves multiplied into seven baskets of surplus (Matthew 15:32-37)
The Seven last words (or seven last sayings) of Jesus on the cross.
Seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom (Acts 6:3)
Seven Spirits of God are mentioned in the Book of Revelation.
Seven churches of Asia to which the "Book of Revelation" is addressed.
Seven churches, seven stars, seven seals, seven last plagues, seven vials or bowls, seven thunders in the Revelation, the last book of the Bible.
In the genealogy in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus is 77th in a direct line."

And if you keep going the list continues...think there is something special about seven? To me, it sure seems like one of God's numbers.

Well, today, happens to be seven (7) days until we embark on our journey. Rather than just a journey, it is a mission. More later, but praise the Lord that everything thus far is in order and He has everything in place:
1.) Passport - Check!
2.) Yellow fever card - Check!
3.) Plane tickets - Check!
4.) Vaccinations - Check!

Please join my team and I in seeking God's will for this trip, and asking that He grant us with wisdom and allow us to surrender ourselves to further His name. We have seven days...may the countdown begin!

The Final Countdown

2009-10-13T21:14:00.001-05:00

Click on this video and listen to the music as you read.

So, the final countdown has begun. Yesterday marked the one month mark until the trip, and God used the day to start the final countdown. The blessings of sponsors making this trip ever more realistic, and the continued prayers of so many, God is really kicking this trip into high gear. With so much happening it's hard to keep track of everything, but each day God has a new step or "stride" that he lays before me. Today, is not only the beginning of the countdown to leaving, but is also my Granpa's birthday, so I would like to wish him well. But, that is a happy note, on a little more painful one, I have an appointment at 9:30 tomorrow to get the dreadful seven shots...I am still wondering how they are going to give me seven shots all at one time.

Back in high school when I played football, I used to listen to this song before every game just to get my blood pumping. And now, the song has so much more of a deeper meaning, and it makes me think not of smashing heads with a guy on a football field, but now it's going out into the field of the world against whatever Satan has. And no, there is no fear on our team, for we serve a mighty God, whose son Jesus Christ has already won that battle, and that is the only reason we are able to do what we do each and everyday.

Thinking back to these past few weeks/months, God has been skillfully putting the notes for this trip, and it has been amazing to see Him at work. I happen to be reading a book about facing fears, and stepping out in faith through love. Then the small group study we have been doing with our high school group has been using the movie "The Guardian" as a reference. These guys and girls in our group have really been pulling some incredible things out of this movie and comparing them to scripture in the Bible, and it is truly amazing how much He can reveal things to us in the least expected places. The motto of the Coast Guard rescue swimmers is "So that others may live." This trip, I pray, will entail that same dedication and selflessness; that we can lay our own wills and selfish desires down, and truly allow God to work in us and through us in order to save lives, not just in the physical life, but for an eternity! The final countdown is here, the preparation is continuing, and it is all "So that others may live."

37 Days and Counting...

2009-10-06T10:57:00.005-05:00

(Click the picture for a larger image)

Well, as the title says, we are now below forty days until we leave to go to Uganda, and I just wanted to share a little more about it with you. First off, this is where I will be going in reference to Greenville, Alabama, which GoogleEarth tells me is "7,886.54 miles".

Over the weekend I got my passport in, and am now trying to track down a blueslip so I can get all of my immuzinations. However, this task is proving to be daunting, I have called two different pediatricians, one will not call me back, and the other said my file would be "somewhere else in storage and that she would try her hardest to track it down." So, I called Auburn University, to whom I gave a blue slip upon enrolling in the fall of 2005, but they treated me as if I am some ancient specimen and are also trying to "dig something up."

So, if I ever do get a history of my immunization, I can then make an appointment with the Montgomery County Health Department and tell them which ones I have had and when so they will then allow me to make ana appointment with them. So, as my brother Brandon keeps telling me, "this is the hard part; once you get all of this done, you can let God do the rest". Which I know God is already at work, but still, these people I am talking to are starting to scare me when they talk as if my file is farther away than where I am travelling!

But, I do want to give a little background on to how about's this trip came into my life. I have for years wanted to do a mission trip somewhere, and through work and school, have just never had the opportunity to do such. Well last spring I found out that the church I am attending was planning a trip this fall. I started to get excited because I knew that this fall I would finally not be in school, but am actually a Co-Op, which means as part of my major, I am taking a semester off to spend a semester of working full-time in the industry.

The best part is that I am so fortunate to work for an incredible company that operates like a family, and has strong core values that drive the office each and every day. I asked me to-be boss if he would mind me taking a week off to go to Africa and his response was "Go: God first, family second, job third." Now that was paraphrased a little, but that was basically his response. So here we are now, heading out in just a short while and trying to get all of the I's dottet and the T's crossed. Check back later, I will tell you more about the trip specifically, and the team that God has made me a part of.

Prayer

2009-07-26T15:27:00.002-05:00

Here's just a quick video to check out with some quotes that get you thinking about prayer. Later I will post a blog on this.

http://www.evangelize.com/countdowns/featured-prayer_quotes_countdown.html

"Open Minds. Open Hearts. Open Doors"

2009-05-04T02:20:00.003-05:00

I watched this video with chills up and down my spine --did I mention almost a dozen times today???

It's 2:00am, I should be in bed asleep, but I woke up watching this video this morning before church, and all day, everywhere I have been, I have been spreading the word about it and what it is, and how it reflects, and relates to my own life, and the church that I currently am fortunate enough to be apart of. I could type for days, and on multiple topics about this video so check back soon, but I am still trying to draft out what the Lord is speaking to me through it.

I tend to not get hung up on the "what if" question(a daily struggle though); just doesn't seem like a productive style. Instead I look at Jesus, and see him tell folks simple commands such as "Go", "Do","Come and follow me" and so many more. He isn't hung up on what could happen, he has faith and simply just tells us to go. And this video brings those thoughts, feelings, and callings upon my heart, and they have taken hold of my whole being today.

I am attending Cornerstone UMC in Auburn, Alabama, and as a church this video makes me think of what they are doing and the way they are bringing others closer to Christ through service. Through their congregation on Sunday morning, to community service as a church on Saturday, all the way to their partnership and missions in Uganda, from children to elders, this church is about service, and it not only has helped to shape my walk with Christ, but is globally affecting lost people around the world.

I am struggling to type the words to bring it all to context, but it is exciting, it is real, and I am ready. For what...not quite sure yet, I was discussing with some friends tonight about a new possible college ministry that would impact college students by using their skills and talents to serve the greater Auburn community, state, nation, and world. I ask for prayer; I know not what it is yet but this is upon my heart: "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." Psalm 25:4-5

Equipped for Battle/Equipped for Life

2009-04-29T10:17:00.003-05:00

For my entire Christian walk, I have always been captivated and overwhelmed by the power in this verse. It is so encouraging, and reassuring just how much my God loves me, and believes in me. There have been so many times that this verse has been my rock, and my stronghold, and has given me the strength to keep fighting.

2 Timothy 1:7 "For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline."

In this verse, Paul is speaking of three characteristics that are made available to a Christian through the Holy Spirit. This verse is so powerful, so strong, so encouraging, so uplifting, it is SO GOOD, it explains to us some of our qualities that are made available to us as we walk and live a Christian life. It makes me think of Philippians 4:13, "I can do everything through he who gives me strength." Wow, talk about a a confidence boost when you combine these two verses! Jesus came to this earth, resisted evil, conquered death, and in all gave us the strength to fight and walk each day. When I think of the three characteristics; power, love, and self-discipline, I start to realize what they mean in our daily lives.

1.) We have not been created timid, in God's image we were created. Jesus was not timid, he did not hide from persecution, and he definitely did not shrink under pressure from the evil one. He stood his ground, firm in faith, and had true power to do just what he did...save us. We are offered that same power as Christians through the Holy Spirit, power that enables us to fight tough battles, resist evil, and to stand firm when the path becomes rocky. With power(the presence of the Holy Spirit in us) we can walk everyday spreading the good news and not feeling ashamed.

2.) Love. Such a beautiful word. If it weren't for love, none of us would be here. But love gives us the ability to help all that we are in contact with. Not just our close network of friends, family and colleagues, but ALL of God's people. The hurt, the lost, even the wicked, we are to love them all and share the gospel at all times. If we have the power of the Holy Spirit, and the Love that is overflowing, we are equipped to spread the word at all times everywhere. Jesus did not speak only to the those who knew him and to saved, but he lived, and cared for the afflicted, the lost, the sinners like us, and those are the same people we are to take this love we were created with and share the good news that we once could not see, but not it is clear.

3.) Self-discipline. To be created with love and power, we are created to do God's will. Unfortunately, there are evil spirits, and Satan will do his best at all times to make you stumble. If we were not created with self-discipline, we would fall apart and give in to these evil desires, and would not be clean and fit. However, it is such a blessing that we possess not only love and power, but the amazing spirit of self-discipline, that we might stand firm against all of the selfish and earthly ambitions and shadow missions that we as sinful humans desire.

It is so good to know that we were created, from the beginning of our walk, to do all things. Just as Paul says in Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.", what is there that we can't do when we have the spirit of Power, Love, and Self-discipline within us? GOD IS GOOD, ALL THE TIME. We are created, equipped with these spirits, what will you do with them?

Who Are You?

2009-04-28T14:08:00.005-05:00

Please watch this video preview of Rob Bell and his Nooma Series:

Who are you?
Let me ask you this, are you a Christian? Is this your true identity?
Are you a man/woman of God; do others see you as a man/woman of God by your actions?

What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? At your funeral, what will your eulogy say?
Will your faith and trust in God be first, or will it be stretch down on the list just because we live in the “Bible belt”?

Genesis 1:26-27 says, “Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’”

Are you living in the image of Christ; are we living a life pleasing to our greatest example, greatest role model of a true man: Jesus Christ?

In Mark 8: 34-35 “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

He [Jesus] is calling us to quit trying to save our sinful, earthly self, to give up our life in order to save it.

It is repeated in Matthew 10: 38-39, and again in Luke 9:23, also in Matthew 16:24-25. This repetition calls us to deny our earthly self and live in union with Jesus, free from sin and death. It is a daily struggle, a constant battle verses mind, body, and spirit. Satan is alive and real, and looks for opportunities to separate us from our relationship with God. Only true me, warriors of God, bearing Christ-like character are fit for this battle.

2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, 9 who has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Above we have assurance that we were created and equipped for this battle against Satan and all of his evil tactics. We were not created with a spirit of timidity, leading to cowardice! But instead, we have power to do all things, love to do things for all of mankind, and self-discipline to keep our walk that we may stay strong in faith and resist evil temptation that may arise. We have not only been called as Christian to live a Holy life, we were designed for it!

We must stop, at this very moment living in the sinful nature, pleasing in image to man. We must stand up, resist evil, and obey god. “Obey God, and leave the consequences to him.”

What makes a true man, and defines the journey that he is called upon, is simply this: Are we willing to die in order to set others free, to save their life? Will we stand up and be fierce warriors in faith against evil, or stand cowardly in a crowd, adhering to the ways of the world?

It takes a true man of God to walk a path with all your trust and faith in His will. That kind of faith takes, courage, bravery, it takes the qualities that are displayed in the character of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It takes the kind of man your kids will look up to, and the kind of man your wife will admire. It is the kind of man that people respect and listen to. Most importantly, it takes the kind of man that will one day stand before Jesus Christ and hear him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

If you met Him tonight, what would He say, what would your legacy be? I challenge you, my brothers, to walk beside me, as warriors, as true men of God; as a band of brothers.