tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51994711032054466952024-03-06T02:41:18.157-05:00crimson on whiteI suppose when I measure myself against others, the variance is not so vivid. Yet, when I am faced with the reality of who I am with who Christ is, the contrast is startling...much like crimson on white.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger157125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-34892412471011484142010-03-09T06:04:00.003-05:002010-03-09T06:48:10.429-05:00Dead to Sin, Alive to God<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace." Romans 6:12-14<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span><br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">It's awfully early in the morning to be considering such profound things but as I brewed my coffee & poured into the Scripture, many truths became exceedingly clear. For years I read Romans 6 & was somewhat discouraged. I was living under the law rather than under grace.<br /><br />Paul begins with a question as to whether grace encourages sin? By no means!! "How can we who died to sin still live in it?" I would continually ask myself the same... why am I so drawn to "live" in sin. I remember similar conversations taking place in college as we worked out our theology. We were all desperately aware of our depravity.<br /><br />John Stott brings clarity (referring to verse 2), "Paul is referring not to a death to the power of sin (or sensitivity toward), but a death to its guilt, that is our justification." In other words, we are still keenly sensitive toward sin, yet the "sting" is gone because of Christ's atoning work. This is only the case for the one who lives "under grace" (v.14). A regenerate person has been "declared to be in the right... declared to be or acquitted from sin." Scripture represents death in a differing manner than we sometimes look; it is much more legal than physical. Scripture views death as the due penalty for our sin rather than a state of lying motionless. Death is the "wage" or payment for our sin.<br /><br />Therefore, consider yourselves dead to sin & alive to God in Christ Jesus. Continually consider yourself to be dead to sin. Paul implies that it is certainly possible to let sin reign in your life (v.12), but don't let it! "Do not<span style="font-style: italic;"> present</span> (Gk: hopla) your members to sin as <span style="font-style: italic;">instruments</span> (Gk: paristanete) for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God... as instruments of righteousness." In other words, do not make yourself available (your eyes, ears, mind, heart, feet, hands, etc.) or put yourself at sin's disposal. Paul uses the words, "do not let sin therefore reign in your mortal body..." Sin can use our body as a way to govern us. If you don't believe me, consider the glutton who cannot control his appetite for food or consider the porn addict who has no self control or consider the one with an eating disorder who will do anything to achieve a certain look. Paul says, don't be a slave to sin. Lightfoot comments, "Sin is regarded as a sovereign (v.12) who demands the military service of its subjects, levies their quota of arms (v.13) & gives them their solder's pay of death (v.23)."<br /><br />"Because Christ died to sin and lives to God, and because through union with Christ we are ourselves 'dead to sin but alive to God', and must 'count' or consider ourselves so, therefore our whole attitude to sin and to God must change. Do not offer yourselves to sin (13a), because you have died to it; but offer yourselves to God (13b), because you have risen to live for his glory." -Stott (180).<br /><br />For years I lived under the influence of the law rather than the influence of grace; I just didn't understand. What I now realize is that I was trying to have personal merit before God. I was depending on myself & seeking to muster up enough enthusiasm to live righteous before God. But the ultimate secret of freedom from sin is to live under grace. "To be under grace is to acknowledge your dependence on the work of Christ for salvation, and so to be justified rather than condemned, & thus set free" (Stott, 181).<br /><br />In summary, does grace encourage sin? By no means. Rather, by all means, grace discourages & outlaws sin. The law provokes & increases sin (5:20); grace opposes it. <br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-55073383692106008742010-02-03T09:14:00.003-05:002010-02-03T09:53:16.977-05:00A Few Thoughts on RenewalI recall a few years ago sitting in one of my favorite local restaurants (Gondolier... for you locals) & pouring out my emotions to a dear friend. This had become a weekly occurrence where I'd find myself spending the majority of our conversation talking about my "weariness, overcommitment, & the perceived need to drop out." I was in the middle of a sentence when a friend of his walked in the restaurant & stopped by the table. My friend said to her, "You look great! I can't believe how refreshed you look." That statement hit me like a ton of bricks. It immediately called to mind how much of my time was spent in dread, weariness, disappointment... burdened. I needed renewal in a bad way.<br /><br />Here's some quotes & thoughts I've been having... many of these thoughts are birthed from my reading Gordon McDonald's "Renewing Your Spiritual Passion."<br /><ul><li>Heart check time when <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"life seems to momentarily turn into a mindless or spiritless journey crammed with events (not experiences) & contacts (not relationships)"</span> (6).</li></ul><ul><li><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"There are no shortcuts, no gimmicks, no easy ways to cultivate intimacy with God & attain the resulting passion that should carry on through life's journey"</span> (9).<br /></li></ul><ul><li><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"Though I am always in haste, I am never in a hurry because I never undertake more work than I can go through with calmness of Spirit."</span> -John Wesley</li></ul>This is my favorite excerpt from the book (taken from Lettie Cowman's "Springs in the Valley" p.196-7):<br /><blockquote></blockquote><blockquote></blockquote>In the deep jungles of Africa, a traveler was making a long trek. Coolies had been engaged from a tribe to carry the loads. The first day they marched rapidly & went far. The traveler had high hopes of a speedy journey. But the second morning these jungle tribesmen refused to move. For some strange reason they just sat & rested. On inquiry as to the reason for this strange behavior, the traveler was informed that they had gone too fast the first day, & that they were now <span style="font-style: italic;">waiting for their souls to catch up with their bodies</span>.<br /><br />I am often astounded at the pace at which our lives move. My dear friends, please spend time waiting... let your souls catch up with your bodies.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-51377672703764855782010-01-25T13:37:00.000-05:002010-01-25T13:38:06.919-05:00Mars Hill Church | Special | 32 Hours: The Church in Haiti<object height="275" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.marshillchurch.org/v/m7ipwxo6iiqb"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.marshillchurch.org/v/m7ipwxo6iiqb" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" height="275" width="400"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-24682781019079053372010-01-25T11:58:00.002-05:002010-01-25T12:02:41.031-05:00Mark Driscoll's Full Interview with RC SproulReally enjoyed this one; RC Sproul's work has impacted my life several times over... click on the below image to access Mark Driscoll's full interview with RC Sproul.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://theresurgence.com/rc-sproul-full-interview"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 305px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-bv1GHfG1Ki3WSPzNNHY-CuFzXE8_DzKay1HfQS6h6pK9ZpmQmul4ElOg1X0bJ8RcGAQCvgrcPu9AI0dW-VC__jyqa0yk1q7Gb8ZIf9Ie3W0utrUdyLLT1U7uQZoVPMa402Tf15lwmVb/s400/RC+Sproul+w:Driscoll.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430723809163852130" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-66116251549199071112010-01-15T10:49:00.002-05:002010-01-15T10:51:34.724-05:00Living Water | A Response to HaitiIf you're considering donating funds to Haiti... may I ask you to consider giving through this channel. Click on the image below to find out more.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.water.cc/initiatives/haiti/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 314px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs43TdyfmpXOE3cJx7dN8b2-wE8Jikau8t0bgYLL8gzxl_cevLZQ8yXgJrTUkX8mIX5XPNOVTVv7c9kg1pe6o3x50Pyb_fprdeI-Dm_INkb4jqCmszzNUinEktMa8hJTCQuBBoEuh8TVwK/s400/Living+Water+Haiti.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426994542865925890" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-34401215784643410752010-01-12T09:06:00.001-05:002010-01-12T09:07:42.272-05:00Q&A with Piper & Angola Prison Inmatesvia The Gospel Coalition<script src="http://www.desiringgod.org/player.js?height=337&width=600&embedCode=V5NmQ0MTqyhAWbPsUNYFpz-XmFXvC_sX"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-9078983499416947672010-01-12T07:46:00.002-05:002010-01-12T08:17:46.145-05:00The In-BetweenI've realized the need to post an update for a LONG time now but haven't. I suppose trying to keep up with 3 blogs is a bit too much for someone... unless it's their job. Consider this my stating my intentions for Crimson on White.<br /><br />I sense I am somewhat in the in-between. Many things have happened since I began this blog: went full-time with my 2 businesses, the birth of my 2nd child, joining a new church in Knoxville, etc. Therefore, I haven't been very consistent in updates. In many respects I needed my soul to catch up with my writings... I wasn't taking enough time to incorporate what God was teaching, rather jumping on from one thing to another. I still feel there is an audience & ministry for Crimson on White as many of you have expressed; I am so thankful. Originally I planned to open this blog up for many contributors to share their insight & personal reflections from Scripture. Again, I would welcome that (just let me know & we'll make sure our goals/visions are compatible).<br /><br />God has done a tremendous work in my heart over the past few months & I intend to share them with you here. Stay with me friends & I hope that God may use this blog as a means of grace in your life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-13548359265897102022009-12-02T10:04:00.001-05:002009-12-02T10:04:36.572-05:00Desiring God Pastors Conference<script src="http://www.desiringgod.org/player.js?height=337&width=600&embedCode=p1MjUxMTp0CW5kQh7LkagfUXDBJYp8TH"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-69739657085072540062009-11-12T11:53:00.001-05:002009-11-12T11:53:51.403-05:00Matt Chandler at SBTS<embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.sbts.edu/resources/wp-content/mu-plugins/flash-video-player/mediaplayer/player.swf" id="n0" name="n0" quality="high" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" allownetworking="all" wmode="opaque" flashvars="id=n0&plugins=googlytics-1&file=http://www.sbts.edu/media/video/chapel/fall-2009/20091112chandler-message.flv" height="270" width="470"></embed>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-38710414137853997692009-10-21T07:59:00.004-04:002009-10-21T08:56:11.531-04:00Words, Words... they're Good for Your Heart... (or are they?)First, apologies to those who regularly read this blog (believe it or not, there are a few)... I have been missing in action. My plate is overflowing with work (praise God!): photography, graphic/web design, copywriting, proposals... on & on. All that to say that I am going to schedule to post at least once a week on Crimson on White. What can I say... I'm committed. If I can post more, I will.<br /><br />Now that that is out of the way, here is the stuff:<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Words, Words... they're good for your heart... (or are they?)</span><br /><br />Words, words... they're good for your heart, the more you use them, the more you... are likely to sin, or say something totally inappropriate, or 'stick your foot in your mouth,' or brag, or 'blow smoke,' etc. You get the point; they can be damaging. Or, they can be incredible, life-giving & edifying, like a 'breath of fresh air.' I guess what matters is what words you use & when you use them. WORD!<br /><br />One of the pastors, Craig Cooper, at CCK preached a sermon titled "Encourage One Another Toward Godliness" & he emphasized the power, purpose, & potential of our words. I want to recap some of his points as well as add some of my thoughts on the subject. As a heads up, the good & profound points were likely stated by him not me!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as it good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." <span style="font-style: italic;">Ephesians 4:29<br /></span></span><br />Here's the point: Our words should promote joy in/toward others.<br /><br />Craig offered this definition of Biblical Encouragement: <span style="font-style: italic;">Biblical encouragement is that which instills courage/hope in the heart of the believer in the fight of faith. </span><br /><br />Scripture offers a clear contrast on the power of our words:<br /><ul><li>Words can either be corrupting or good for up-building</li><li>Words can be damaging or edifying</li><li>Words can either promote strife/trouble or peace/unity</li><li>Our words matter to God & they affect those around us</li></ul>I paraphrase CJ Mahaney who encourages believers to be "...wisely forbidding any & all speech detrimental to others." As another author said, "Incivility is storming the gates." Wouldn't you agree? It is all too common for us to hear words of incivility that are laced with bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, slander, false report, maliciousness... words that lessens another's esteem or reputation (Eph 4:31). Often we justify our behavior by a 'passive resistance' towards this type of conversation. We refuse to step in & say, "I'm sorry friend, but have you discussed this with _____, I think it would serve you both to speak with him about this." Or, "It sounds to me that you are holding on to some real bitterness in your heart towards _____. You should talk with him privately." Rather, we often are guilty by association or guilty by participation. Gossip & such feeds our ego & spirit of superiority over others. We feel like we now own something over them if we have evidence of their misbehavior, sin, or character deficiencies. It's like a drug.<br /><br />Yet it doesn't have to be this way. We learn from Scripture the character of God who is One who always speaks in a way fitting for the moment, whose words encourage & build & promotes joy in others. God gives grace to those who hear His voice. As JC Ryle speaks of one whom you'd be "...warmed by their company as though your soul warmed by fire." God's words warm our souls. And our words can do the same.<br />A few questions for reflection might be:<br /><ul><li>What are others most aware of in me?</li><li>Are you more aware of my encouragement or criticism?<br /></li></ul>Every single conversation we have has the potential to give grace to those who hear. What a wonderful & awesome potential we steward! It makes me think twice about what kind of conversations I regular.<br /><br />Craig offered some clarification as to what biblical encouragement is not; I found this extremely helpful. Biblical encouragement is not flattery, compliments, or kind/polite words. We are thankful for all those things but they are not biblical encouragement. Rather, biblical encouragement is imparting/instilling courage/hope in the heart of the believer in the fight of faith. It is God-centered, revealing God's character, & saturated with Scripture... so that... the person we interact with receives grace. We should point out where God is at work in others. In essence, we can see a spark of God's activity in others & fuel that flame by speaking God's character over that person's life.<br /><br />Last points of application.<br /><ol><li>Look for God's activity in others' lives.</li><li>When you see it, communicate it specifically. </li></ol><br />I hope that these words give grace to you & encourage you in the fight of faith. Lord bless & keep you, make His face shine on you, the Lord lift up His countenance on you & give you peace.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-91477030132865363192009-10-09T10:47:00.003-04:002009-10-09T11:21:04.157-04:00Two Ways of Reading & Interpreting ScriptureWednesday morning in our men's group this topic came up again & it compelled me to remind myself of this important principle. I'm sure I have even blogged about this before. But, it seems clear to me that there are two very distinct ways to read & interpret the Bible: man-centered vs. God-centered. The distinction may seem quite subtle but it is not. One way is quite dangerous for the reader & hearer. In fact, I can already hear a rebuttal... "well at least they are reading the Bible." In many respects I agree & if you would've asked me three years ago, I wouldn't have discerned the difference very well. There is a big difference between the two. May I offer an example.<br /><br />[I would compel you to listen to this wonderful sermon example of a God-centered perspective in preaching, listen to David Prince's "<a href="http://www.ashlandbaptistchurch.org/aabc/2009/07/30/david-and-goliath-we-never-knew-you-the-good-new-that-the-bible-is-not-all-about-you/">David & Goliath We Never Knew You: The Good News that the Bible Is Not All About You.</a>" The below example is revised from Prince's sermon.]<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Scripture passage: 1 Samuel 17 | David & Goliath</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Man-centered interpretation & application: David is a faithful warrior that I need to emulate. Goliath is any enemy or trial in my life that is difficult. </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">I </span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">need to be more like David.</span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> I</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> need to face the trials & battles in my life by mustering up enough courage to fight. Rise above the mentality of the weak Israelites.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">God-centered interpretation & application: David represents Christ. Goliath is not trials or battles in my life but is </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">the</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> enemy, our adversary, Satan. I am helpless against sin like the Israelites were against Goliath. I have no chance against Goliath; I will never have enough courage or ability. I need Christ to fight for on my behalf; He is the only Salvation. </span><br /><br />Do you see the difference? One mind-set immediately begins applying the passage to what "I need to do." This can never be understood correctly until we understand our depravity & the extent of the Gospel. This is just a small preview of what I mean by two ways of reading & interpreting scripture. I strongly encourage you to listen to Prince's sermon as it sheds light on this. I pray that we would begin to see our errors in our reading Scripture. I'll end with this quote by Prince:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"You do realize that you can come to the Bible & just keep saying things that are true & lead someone to Hell. You do realize that don't you! Let's say someone says: 'don't commit adultery... God doesn't want you to commit adultery... it's bad. Don't steal... God doesn't want you to steal... it's bad. Give, give alot, it's good.' And we could go on & on & on. And by the way everything I said is true but everything I said was meant by God to be understood in the context of Jesus & His gospel. And if it's all you say as if Jesus & the gospel doesn't exist, it's damning... it's going to lead you in the opposite direction of where it is supposed to lead you... only when I understand how this story testifies about Jesus... only when I understand that can I make the application to my own life."<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Until next week! </span><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-90221864455091588412009-10-06T19:00:00.005-04:002009-10-06T19:26:11.578-04:00Bliss Series at Cornerstone Church of Knoxville<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQMEy6ASia1s7RpDWz42N2Tu2LpBtkwaEe7fSf7UJKzfUHInna5D8w4lUN6t3usuKsV34He9LxjLxeraK7QTRp68iW_wfzEN8Cu16-UPeH3uhTppRhNF6jQNbHmfdBSm96oT-uNZi1O_wC/s1600-h/Bliss_Parenting-1+cropped.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQMEy6ASia1s7RpDWz42N2Tu2LpBtkwaEe7fSf7UJKzfUHInna5D8w4lUN6t3usuKsV34He9LxjLxeraK7QTRp68iW_wfzEN8Cu16-UPeH3uhTppRhNF6jQNbHmfdBSm96oT-uNZi1O_wC/s400/Bliss_Parenting-1+cropped.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389632136878277458" border="0" /></a>The past 7 weeks we have had the privilege to sit under the current teaching series at CCK, "Bliss." I can sometimes be skeptical about topical sermon series due to things I have heard in the past (at various locations) such as, "How to Have a Winning Team" or "9 Steps to Deal with Depression," as if the content of these messages even hinted at the gospel. I generally walked away saddened at how cheap the Gospel must sound to the hearers. It sounded more pop-psychological rather than gospel truth.<br /><br />Yet, I knew the pastors at CCK would not disappoint when it came to content... they've yet to do so. I have been utterly humbled following each message as they pointed me back towards my source of 'bliss,' the presence of God. We have been reminded, "There is no lasting joy in this life but for the grace of God," Bill Kittrell said. And I believe it; God's word & my experience have confirmed it over & over again. This past week we studied out of Ecclesiastes concerning the life of Solomon. Solomon exposes all of his vain attempts to find pleasure only to realize that what he thought would bring him joy only led to despair. "God will curse all those things that you believe will bring you joy." And thank God for His continual care & His leading us back to the source of bliss, namely, Himself.<br /><br />Check out the sermon titles from the series:<br /><ul><li>Bliss: Treasure in a Field</li><li>Bliss: Fight for Bliss</li><li>Bliss: In Trials</li><li>Bliss: Friendships<br /> </li><li>Bliss: When You Coming' Home Son (Parenting)<br /> </li><li>Bliss: Joy on the Job<br /> </li><li>Bliss: Nothing New Under the Sun<br /> </li></ul> If you would like to check out the audio & pdf downloads from the Bliss series, click <a href="http://www.cornerstonechurchofknoxville.com/">here</a>. Click on the Media/Links tab & look under sermons. I believe it will be a means of grace in your life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-27082356182093927342009-09-28T12:55:00.003-04:002009-09-28T13:12:06.328-04:00The Theater of God ConferenceJohn Calvin may be one of the most highly misunderstood & under appreciated men of our time. I suppose that those who misunderstand him, highly misunderstand him & fail to realize the impact he has made upon their lives. I imagine that many who would staunchly rebuttal against Calvin have rarely read his pages. In his day, even those whom disagreed with John Calvin held him in highest esteem. It is said that Jacob Arminius believed Calvin to be the greatest expositor of the Word to have ever lived. I personally have developed a tremendous amount of affection towards his work & ministry... mainly because he encourages me to love Christ more dearly & helps me understand my Lord more fully.<br /><br />The Desiring God 2009 National Conference was titled, "With Calvin in the Theater of God." I would encourage you to listen to the excellent sessions from the conference. Click on the image below for access to the audio/video sessions.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.theaterofgod.com"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 193px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYjM4cuOmJyyXYzbtYyE70MfuRzkyHc6RXNv70DhCCJnufs4ZYcKYWGeKSXHqk7YBR5HNdnwci98glTNlXXbcR66b5Nu2Uq5DRY1Y3g_unc63Lc1WGSTcrXv3EVsCsHhNJXkLm0Ka4JQH/s400/NatCon2009_Calvin+Image.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386566596062710674" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-18177446765580664712009-09-24T00:14:00.001-04:002009-09-24T00:18:27.548-04:00Cover Designs Submitted for Rick Warren's New Book<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZDCzCYtBEjUkwBOHGUyYpDogDTl8lfNMoxYcWWHXMXa1oKsVR7s-JLUgvS0MeBuOzK9S75juOZbxJa3POV4BypfLnwQYE-xP120rromPr58rvILlmo9eJy8klfRsbhkmNERAibPFfokr/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+6a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZDCzCYtBEjUkwBOHGUyYpDogDTl8lfNMoxYcWWHXMXa1oKsVR7s-JLUgvS0MeBuOzK9S75juOZbxJa3POV4BypfLnwQYE-xP120rromPr58rvILlmo9eJy8klfRsbhkmNERAibPFfokr/s400/THYN+Cover+6a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883419058269410" border="0" /></a>For several days now I have been meaning to tell everyone that I jumped at the opportunity to submit a cover design for Pastor Rick Warren's new book, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hope You Need. </span>Rick Warren decided to use 99 Designs to host a cover design contest open to the public. As you may imagine, this is a wonderful opportunity for everyone... especially for those of us who have been highly influenced by Pastor Warren. I found out about the contest 1.5 days before the contest end, so I rushed like crazy to submit some of my artwork & photography. I am really interested in seeing how this contest turns out due to the submission requirements & the sheer number of entries... 3189 at submission end. In particular to the contest rules was that no stock photography could be used, only original artwork & photography. I am not sure how they will be able to sort through the stock photos but we will wait & see. But from my end, I thought it was a wonderful way to showcase some of my photos that I thought would make great book cover designs. Can you imagine being able to see one of your photos on the cover? Very cool. So... If you would like to see my portfolio at 99 designs, click <a href="http://99designs.com/users/331533/folio">here</a>. Otherwise, here are some of my favorite submissions to the contest.<br /><br />(And... bear in mind... I am trying not to get my hopes up because there were some wonderfully talented designers who submitted cover designs as well. Regardless of what happens, it was a fun project.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheobs5ZnzSgYbeTCGtyVvhNlEgxWRaAWEBAbVa1WGkYgQWa1_u6b8luHj56B-G-M3jjcRjj9uS4N4Qlgh_iqWXLEy_ZZ6rpOWEiFAGe7C2-ENMlMvQnf2DIGUh5YICRvzC11YEMSPBdLju/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheobs5ZnzSgYbeTCGtyVvhNlEgxWRaAWEBAbVa1WGkYgQWa1_u6b8luHj56B-G-M3jjcRjj9uS4N4Qlgh_iqWXLEy_ZZ6rpOWEiFAGe7C2-ENMlMvQnf2DIGUh5YICRvzC11YEMSPBdLju/s400/THYN+Cover+9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883412283298034" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCcA8E-_M-pgIkqjm4NLARkYnF8OYKbuxf7aj74kGT6hgenHuiz3eFwjiPAvabooTaoqF4GUvrCqgqMEhcn9jnbBkc7vyhVy0Noe7oHb3mc6gnSZh3Bx9CbXULI2GuL0osaaz_6JRe4S1/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+8a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCcA8E-_M-pgIkqjm4NLARkYnF8OYKbuxf7aj74kGT6hgenHuiz3eFwjiPAvabooTaoqF4GUvrCqgqMEhcn9jnbBkc7vyhVy0Noe7oHb3mc6gnSZh3Bx9CbXULI2GuL0osaaz_6JRe4S1/s400/THYN+Cover+8a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883229548038530" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsho8vT8Z6QDo9F_Yfh0SnV25YVHIEAUAnJLOAktI-9TjROVaMagBaLW8rQPma14ZhgKFBki0jCo4a68tet0LPEjikqflLw7bE1CMXpwEfcKriBmh0civ-9jFPrtJGGe8macRtJhYC2nr5/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+5b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsho8vT8Z6QDo9F_Yfh0SnV25YVHIEAUAnJLOAktI-9TjROVaMagBaLW8rQPma14ZhgKFBki0jCo4a68tet0LPEjikqflLw7bE1CMXpwEfcKriBmh0civ-9jFPrtJGGe8macRtJhYC2nr5/s400/THYN+Cover+5b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883220869484482" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1OsdVTcoHDQnrTbn_cIazid03VvNNK95LoZBWpNHjWXXEHz1OhNuTR_SbYBzXD9zpmcaTodcETD5hcsi02eGkCo_yxvbOAvbFERxj5o3WlKPaPZ2Ebs7c4kOu0adY5g7yvDZzUAo0Npn/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+1c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1OsdVTcoHDQnrTbn_cIazid03VvNNK95LoZBWpNHjWXXEHz1OhNuTR_SbYBzXD9zpmcaTodcETD5hcsi02eGkCo_yxvbOAvbFERxj5o3WlKPaPZ2Ebs7c4kOu0adY5g7yvDZzUAo0Npn/s400/THYN+Cover+1c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883211894796546" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4YZkAgkoPqY1hJJ2COvywjLeKt14lviQHP_e_HaRpgS15iO-b_oDirWLVm3zDB0gf_45yrn2r9_IwjawSdQ5TD2JTq9kB_VFFMHiD_mcw-BTjwAiLjcfWOp9as4lAfnKx6cZLux8BZq29/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+3a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4YZkAgkoPqY1hJJ2COvywjLeKt14lviQHP_e_HaRpgS15iO-b_oDirWLVm3zDB0gf_45yrn2r9_IwjawSdQ5TD2JTq9kB_VFFMHiD_mcw-BTjwAiLjcfWOp9as4lAfnKx6cZLux8BZq29/s400/THYN+Cover+3a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883208861155922" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLeExgVvj34y_y1HhEaIH5OYEZEDAsNbFDW-UJRHGyZwjl98qiCdmVnrKNOAyY87arSMWxkn5TqfErT3_UMN0AajHloj2DAQU81Y9JnrLIaTayuoOoYXljUMItmk2v7AIZUIUW2CbrKjq/s1600-h/THYN+Cover+2d.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLeExgVvj34y_y1HhEaIH5OYEZEDAsNbFDW-UJRHGyZwjl98qiCdmVnrKNOAyY87arSMWxkn5TqfErT3_UMN0AajHloj2DAQU81Y9JnrLIaTayuoOoYXljUMItmk2v7AIZUIUW2CbrKjq/s400/THYN+Cover+2d.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384883200990149666" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-22343047416417078812009-09-17T07:03:00.002-04:002009-09-17T07:27:03.441-04:00Don't Boast but Boast<span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"... we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation." | Romans 5:11<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In essence, Paul is saying, "Boast in God." He even uses the word <span style="font-style: italic;">kauchaomai</span>, "boast." Stott says, "It is identical with the Jewish attitude which Paul has condemned in Romans 2:17... 'You... brag about you relationship to God' (Stott 147). Is Paul saying "don't boast, but boast?" Emphatically, yes!<br /><br />But here is the difference: Boasting in God (humility) is distinct from boasting in God (pride). One boast is from a heart of humility, the other from a heart of pride. Let me explain.<br /><br />Paul had a problem with the Jewish persons who boasted in God (pride) as though He were their 'exclusive property'... as if to say 'they had a monopoly interest in him.' Their lives were not centered on God but rather themselves (although it appeared otherwise). Yet what Paul is saying in v.11 is antithetical to their prideful boast in God.<br /><br />Rather, Paul is suggesting an exultation in Christ birthed from a heart of humility. A major fruit of the person who has been justified by faith through grace is that they have joy in God himself. As pastor Bill Kittrell said several weeks ago, "lack of joy is not right for a Christian... it is common, but it isn't right." Rather than boast as though we exclusively own God, rather we boast in amazement that He would even own us.<br /><br />I must conclude with John Stott's most excellent summary statement:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">"Christian exultation in God begins with the shamefaced recognition that we have no claim on him (G0d) at all, continues with wondering worship that while we were still sinners and enemies Christ died for us, and ends with the humble confidence that he will complete the work he has begun. So to exult in God is to rejoice not in our privileges but in his mercies, not in our possession of him but in his of us." (</span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Romans, </span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">147-8)</span><br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-4932496594359947002009-09-11T11:11:00.004-04:002009-09-11T11:26:19.777-04:00Song Spotlight: "All I Have is Christ" by Jordan Kauflin<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi78utGvfwvuudX7pek0sqqCtLTuE08Uwvr4k5MsLA4uriHUJvm75lSvNfoBCzgG-_LxlAYXFptiME9k2WUW-wP7eqRmS3YBSM6-rPriZSBeepo_3SHeeQFYkJ2Qe-Jh3oU76mcr18XOwV/s1600-h/M4230-00-21_L.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi78utGvfwvuudX7pek0sqqCtLTuE08Uwvr4k5MsLA4uriHUJvm75lSvNfoBCzgG-_LxlAYXFptiME9k2WUW-wP7eqRmS3YBSM6-rPriZSBeepo_3SHeeQFYkJ2Qe-Jh3oU76mcr18XOwV/s400/M4230-00-21_L.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380231370335828178" border="0" /></a><br />I've been meaning to do this more often... to spotlight some of my favorite tunes/hymns/etc. Today I wanted to draw attention to the song "All I Have is Christ" by Jordan Kauflin, recorded by the Na Band (New Attitude). Check out these lyrics:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">I once was lost in darkest night</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Yet thought I knew the way</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">The sin that promised joy & life</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Had led me to the grave</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">I had no hope that You would own </span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">A rebel to Your will</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">And if You had not love me first</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">I would refuse You still</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><br /><br />But as I ran my hell bound race</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Indifferent to the cost</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">You looked upon my helpless state</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">And led me to the cross</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">And I beheld God's love displayed</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">You suffered in my place</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">You bore the wrath reserved for me</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Now all I know is grace</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><br /><br />Hallelujah! All I have is Christ</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Hallelujah! Jesus is my life.</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><br /><br />Now Lord I would be Yours alone</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">And live so all might see</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">The strength to follow Your commands</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Could never come from me</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Oh Father use my ransomed life</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">In any way You choose</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">And let my song forever be</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">My only boast is You</span><br /><br />The Sovereign Grace link has free guitar chord/lead sheets as well as the option to download the song: <a href="http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/Search.aspx?Keyword=all+i+have+is+christ">http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/Search.aspx?Keyword=all+i+have+is+christ</a><br />The iTunes link is: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?i=280701875&id=280701491&s=143441">http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?i=280701875&id=280701491&s=143441</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-89977804810601748402009-09-10T10:17:00.002-04:002009-09-10T10:25:39.961-04:00Living Water InternationalIn the past our family experienced such pleasure in the opportunity to give to Living Water International. They are very grateful & have called us personally numerous times to express their gratitude towards our giving. I am pleased to share this video with you & hopefully encourage & compel you towards good works. I am quickly sobered & humbled. For more info, go to: <a href="http://www.water.cc/">http://www.water.cc/</a>. The website is unequaled in informative & inspiring content.<br /><br /><object width="800" height="450"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=6494616&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=336699&fullscreen=1"><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=6494616&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=336699&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="800" height="450"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-24254152525804138822009-09-07T09:02:00.006-04:002009-09-07T20:00:35.276-04:00Trials & Suffering | A Context that reveals God's Love<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSWuQ8sTtnhbO9_DSZupa7FFKeGx0ZbUl6EfFCxVVlHPSEUgpI8YsY3S5vz3iuP2GdpIbNImJi9HcDmRIAYZVy_4XabuFxFB-AcH1gwlI5ndjpJ2OP-31HYby2LLY8KotmeEAsqzTBiCd/s1600-h/istock_000002680448xsmall.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSWuQ8sTtnhbO9_DSZupa7FFKeGx0ZbUl6EfFCxVVlHPSEUgpI8YsY3S5vz3iuP2GdpIbNImJi9HcDmRIAYZVy_4XabuFxFB-AcH1gwlI5ndjpJ2OP-31HYby2LLY8KotmeEAsqzTBiCd/s400/istock_000002680448xsmall.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378754189206127282" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />"If you live long enough, you will suffer" - DA Carson</span><br /><br />I imagine it sounds sort of masochistic ("the sickness of finding pleasure in pain") to many to say that we should rejoice in our sufferings (Romans 5:3-8). But as the topic of suffering/trials/"pressure" (GK: <span style="font-style: italic;">thlipseis</span>) seems to find its way into my readings (& yesterday's sermon) as of late, I have had to face the topic head on. Specifically I have been studying justification by faith in Christ & its results. And Romans tells us that as a result of our justification ("Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have..."), "we rejoice in our sufferings" (v.3).<br /><br />But it is not masochism... "It is rather the recognition that there is <span style="font-style: italic;">a divine rationale</span> behind suffering" (Stott, 141).<br /><br />Stott offers 3 "reasons" or "divine rationale" behind suffering:<br /><ol><li>Suffering is the one and only path to glory. It was so for Christ; it is so for Christians.</li><li>If suffering leads to glory in the end, it leads to maturity meanwhile. Suffering can be productive (to conform us to the image of Christ), if we respond to it positively.<br /></li><li>Suffering is the best context in which to become assured of God's love.<br /></li></ol>Yet as I read & hear this I must ask, "How does suffering reveal God's love & care for my life?" I will attempt briefly to help bring insight to this difficult question.<br /><br />I am reminded throughout Scripture that God is near to the broken-hearted... to the broken & contrite in Spirit, He has yet to refuse. Suffering ought to lead to humility. And humility is a soil in which God produces wonderful fruit. In desperation, we find that God is near. Suffering quickly sobers us to what is important in this life. And anything that leads us to gain Christ is a good thing.<br /><br />As one of our pastors, Walt Alexander, stated yesterday (my paraphrase), "Trials are not deviations in God's purposes, rather are integral to His plans for our joy & His glory."<br /><br />Yet we can only have this mindset if we trust God & His character. If we do not believe in the goodness of God on our behalf, we may sink to despair. Yet, God has proved His love for us in several ways. Consider the ways that He proves His love:<br /><ol><li>"<span style="font-style: italic;">He</span> has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us" (5b). </li><li>He has proved His love by Christ's death on the cross (Romans 5:8).<br /></li></ol>Christ died for sinners (enemies of God). Many would die for a friend, yet rarely would one die for an enemy. Sanday & Headlam state, "We infer that the natural explanation of the passages which speak of enmity & reconciliation between God & man is that they are not on one side only, but are mutual" (S&H, 130). Hodges added, "There is not only a wicked opposition of the sinner to God, but a holy opposition of God to the sinner" ( Hodges, 138). Hence, Christ died for those whom God's wrath was pointed toward.<br /><br />What does this have to do with suffering? Well, it reminds us of the character of God. We can trust God; He alone is trustworthy. God does not waste our time & uses (& orchestrates) events in our lives to mature, care, & shepherd us. I am reminded of Brennan Manning's quote, "Whatever God does not protect us from, He will use to perfect us through." All suffering in a believer's life is for their good (conformity to the image of Christ) & for His glory (us being conformed to the image of Christ).<br /><br />And, we must conclude as Stott says, "Objectively in history & subjectively in experience, God has given us good grounds for believing in his love. The integration of the historical ministry of God's Son (on the cross) with the contemporary ministry of his Spirit (in our hearts) is one of the most wholesome and satisfying features of the gospel" (Stott, 146).<br /><br />Recommended Resources:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Suffering-Sovereignty-God-John-Piper/dp/1581348096/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1252338425&sr=1-1">Suffering and the Sovereignty of God</a> <span class="ptBrand">by John Piper and Justin Taylor</span><span class="binding"> (<span class="format">Paperback</span> - Sep 13, 2006)</span></li><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/God-Love-Lifetime-Walking-Jesus/dp/0310240085/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1252338524&sr=1-8">The God I Love: A Lifetime of Walking with Jesus</a> <span class="ptBrand">by Joni Eareckson Tada</span><span class="binding"> (<span class="format">Hardcover</span> - Aug 1, 2003)</span></li><li><span class="binding"><a href="http://www.monergism.com/directory/search.php?action=search_links_simple&search_kind=and&phrase=suffering&B1.x=0&B1.y=0&B1=Search">http://www.monergism.com/directory/search.php?action=search_links_simple&search_kind=and&phrase=suffering&B1.x=0&B1.y=0&B1=Search</a><br /></span></li></ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-23483815946797708682009-09-02T09:03:00.004-04:002009-09-02T09:17:25.474-04:00The Most Compelling Sermon on Missions I've Heard (... maybe)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.brookhills.org/media/series/global-summit-2007/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyOYMuikZkf2IyoSOBYKcaQAZjNjSr0TUZHu71VqkDFMYU84J3W-UxM3zEbN4WU8WVZil2G1sAOE6AAsSjlKuoUP7hJB6LINlHqKZ1VLD5Xqpfn2oC7i7fatNlddGNBcoQyyyFv99vHsNB/s400/Global+Summit+2007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376857922658240770" border="0" /></a><br />Monday evening as I drove home from Scottsboro, AL from a photo shoot I was reminded of a sermon I have listened to countless times (I mean... dozens of times!). The name of it is: "A Mission Only the Church Could Stop" by David Platt (The Church at Brook Hills | Birmingham, AL). It has fundamentally impacted my life... so much so that I believe it is the most compelling sermons on missions I've heard... maybe. Hence, I wanted to share it with you. Access the media files (audio & video) by clicking on above image or watch the sermon below.<br /><br /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.brookhills.org/swf/player_embed.swf" id="cpvPlayer" name="cpvPlayer" bgcolor="#000000" quality="high" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="file=http://www.brookhills.org/video/152.mp4&image=http://www.brookhills.org/video/152.jpg&skin=http://www.brookhills.org/swf/brookhills_skin.swf&autostart=false&fullscreen=true&controlbar=over&string=Global%20Summit%202007&seriesLink=http://www.brookhills.org/media/series/global-summit-2007/" width="480" height="388"></embed>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-11456943098438775312009-08-30T20:05:00.004-04:002009-08-30T20:14:19.842-04:00Our son loots our dog's bed!Brennan (our son) looted our dog's (Bailey's) bed. Next thing I knew he was making himself at home in it. Bailey did not think it was cool :( So we decided to turn it into a sled that Daddy pulls around the house. Quite fun... quite hilarious = good times!<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyidMB90DSDmXIv9KEG6nsvhbGisvdJGojcaqNvbU4n3PK6HGueDo3EcvUVTtTeGuebf_njqA5riI56bu9yYw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-9701855110104197302009-08-28T13:45:00.002-04:002009-08-28T13:47:49.573-04:00Welcome Benjamin Knox Finch!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKfSC_SAUOYpnAHGd9IBMeZs-J41qYtdOc52fDqhpVNgAQbJ8tWeUfjYu1034Lszhp_R5uiYNIAqccWetsLuXzga2KuLqw85Fit4t5HuW1RLWsfc2tutqoPQsQRtjmGgOIJFWkUOOJc9T/s1600-h/Benjamin+Knox+Finch-10.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKfSC_SAUOYpnAHGd9IBMeZs-J41qYtdOc52fDqhpVNgAQbJ8tWeUfjYu1034Lszhp_R5uiYNIAqccWetsLuXzga2KuLqw85Fit4t5HuW1RLWsfc2tutqoPQsQRtjmGgOIJFWkUOOJc9T/s400/Benjamin+Knox+Finch-10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375072797998155666" border="0" /></a><br />Our newest member of the family, Benjamin Knox Finch, arrived on Tuesday [8/25] at 9:35 pm weighing 8.1 lbs & 20.5 inches long. Joy had such a pleasant experience during delivery & is recovering quite nicely. We had wonderful support from family/friends & are very thankful for all the love directed towards us. We were able to leave the hospital last night around 7 pm & introduce Knox to his new home. Our dog Bailey greeted him with a warm kiss & Brennan was super-excited to see his lil' bro. Now we are taking time to rest, enjoy hot potato soup, & be thankful. Living the dream!<br /><br />Plenty of Pics to see at: http://benfinchphotography.blogspot.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-46388593023511998972009-08-19T08:22:00.004-04:002009-08-19T09:39:32.150-04:00The Campus Initiative<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiwvd1IfRUY_5d034X7n4Inu-fVY0C0XF5mhb2xtXA4JWuwsTQSEbs4wTvL4FGutfpZFij2sSgYC2GFepAO65jStpsIZd5TulkpGR78kdaLUnbnDTfgki2plEITbnAOEScHQyU4u-S7-nf/s1600-h/Campus+Initiative+Graphic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiwvd1IfRUY_5d034X7n4Inu-fVY0C0XF5mhb2xtXA4JWuwsTQSEbs4wTvL4FGutfpZFij2sSgYC2GFepAO65jStpsIZd5TulkpGR78kdaLUnbnDTfgki2plEITbnAOEScHQyU4u-S7-nf/s400/Campus+Initiative+Graphic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371668770510616642" border="0" /></a><br />An announcement was made at church on Sunday to host The Campus Initiative conference on December 17-19, 2009 at Cornerstone Church of Knoxville. Here are the details from the <a href="http://campusinitiativeconference.com/">website: </a><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">The Campus Initiative Conference is a strategic conference held in order to encourage Christ-centered, church-based college ministry. The Campus Initiative Conference seeks to equip leaders and students to more effectively proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on college campuses and to encourage college students to faithfully be involved in a healthy, local church.</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><br /><br />The Campus Initiative Conference is featuring guest speakers: Dr. D. A. Carson, Randy Newman, and Bill Kittrell. Dr. Carson has a heart for college ministry and is an active guest lecturer in academic and church settings around the world. Randy Newman has served with Campus Crusade for Christ for almost 30 years and has written books specifically on evangelism. Bill Kittrell is the Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Church of Knoxville and has been involved in campus ministry for over 25 years.</span><br /><br />You can register online at the site,<a href="http://campusinitiativeconference.com/"> http://campusinitiativeconference.com/</a>. If you register by November 30, the cost is $50. If registered afterward, $75.<br /><br />If you are coming into town for the conference, let me know... I'd be glad to meet up with you!<br /><br />I am so excited; I can't wait!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-68717935848369108092009-08-17T14:41:00.002-04:002009-08-17T15:36:01.872-04:00The Fear of Death... or NothingnessFor years I feared death. Or was it that I feared nothingness? I don't really know. I remember as a child lying sleepless in my bed as I contemplated & sometimes shuttered as I thought about death & non-existence. I think what I feared most was the uncertainty that accompanied death. I occasionally asked myself, "What happens when I die?"<br /><br />I think that is a valid question. I imagine we have all asked it if we were to be honest about it.<br /><br />For much of my life, we were fairly nominal in church attendance & I don't recall this question being brought up much in our church. I don't know if it addressed or not. Maybe I wasn't listening. If you knew me back then, you would probably say that I wasn't listening very well... you'd probably be right. But, of all places, I figure this is the place to find answers.<br /><br />Yet, I can't say that I actively pursued an answer to that question, even in church. If anything, I tried to avoid it. But, there were a few times that I was sobered up with the reality of death. I've lost plenty of loved ones. We've all lost loved ones. As one guy said, "If you've lived 30 years, you know that life is full of wonderful pleasure but also excruciating pain." He was right.<br /><br />Many try to cover up their insecurities about death. Woody Allen said, "Its not that I'm afraid to die, I just don't want to be there when it happens."<br /><br />A theologian, John Stott said, "Nothing baffles us human beings more than nothingness & death. We dread nothingness & death is the one even that we have absolutely no control over; we cannot escape." Wow... sobering.<br /><br />Yet, is there any hope many have asked? Most of us hope in life after death. But what does that mean & how do I know?<br /><br />For me, things changed concerning my outlook of death when I heard the Gospel. The Gospel says that God is the creator of life & that out of nothingness (<span style="font-style: italic;">ex nihilo</span>), He created all things. It also says that God is sovereign over life & death. In short, I was told (& later realized the Bible states) that those who would place their faith in Jesus Christ shouldn't fear death... for they could have life after death. When someone places their faith in Jesus Christ, God regenerates their hearts. They are made alive in Christ. You see, God's son, Jesus, lived a perfect life on earth yet was murdered. He was crucified, was dead & buried. Yet, through God's power, he was raised from the dead. He beat death so that we wouldn't have to fear it.<br /><br />I found great comfort in Stott's statement, "But nothingness & death are no problem to God. On the contrary, it is out of nothing that he created the universe, & out of death that He raised Jesus."<br /><br />Fear of death is subdued when we come to realization of who God is.<br /><br />We ought to consider death; I think it is healthy to do so. It should, however, be an avenue that leads us to Jesus. As well, it ought to compel us to beg for God's influence over our own souls & the souls of others. Wonderful confidence can be found in the Gospel!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><br />If you have questions or fears about death or life, or God, the Gospel, etc., you are welcome to contact me. To some extent, I understand your concern about such matters & will try to gracefully listen & do my best to offer biblical advice. Also, feel free to link this article to friends & family who may be struggling with similar questions about death. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-46646853806237602762009-08-13T13:47:00.003-04:002009-08-13T14:08:33.015-04:00Closet Bed: One man's quest to turn a closet into a fort!It wasn't the first time that I received odd looks & half-hearted smiles, but when I mentioned that I was going to turn our hall closet into a bedroom/reading "nook"/fort for the boys, I was greeted with an awkward moment of silence. I typically love awkward moments of silence, but this was directed towards me... how dare they! "I'm a visionary," I thought to myself... "they just don't understand the awesome factor this will bring to our hall!"<br /><br />So... after searching for affirmation from family & friends, I decided to go for it in spite of their "looks". Well, kind of. Here are the steps: First, I painted it. Second, I took measurements, drew out a blueprint, talked to some buddies of mine at the mattress store, & had them cover a big piece of bed foam. Then I shamelessly asked my dad to built a custom platform for the bed. Next, I built a few bookshelves for the room. And, voila! Dull hall closet morphed into closet bed/fort.<br /><br />I asked Joy afterward, "Does this mean that we now have a 3.5 bedroom house? If so, that rocks!"<br /><br />But... there is much missing in there. The fun, "fort" factor is in place, but it definitely needs some design inspiration like some photos on the wall or a big wall-sized chalkboard. I have several photos I am narrowing down to make their appearance. Stay tuned my friends... I am committed to making it the sweetest closet bedroom ever (it could be the only closet bedroom ever, but that is what helps make it the coolest!). So... here are a few pics. Brennan loves it!!! What do ya think?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90l5M4M6E2JJlja6o6DZctbTtBFutV1g_kUPFVqokiLdN10j8y0n2jj4XZ513G42dCWA0nm1bc0ifNTpkl3YtLs9uahBUUOAxMaQivJ_fAqGLprTVN_AsB8d5Vy6LBfFHM4fayPGsrUxH/s1600-h/Brennan+Closet+Fort-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90l5M4M6E2JJlja6o6DZctbTtBFutV1g_kUPFVqokiLdN10j8y0n2jj4XZ513G42dCWA0nm1bc0ifNTpkl3YtLs9uahBUUOAxMaQivJ_fAqGLprTVN_AsB8d5Vy6LBfFHM4fayPGsrUxH/s400/Brennan+Closet+Fort-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369510690911999986" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gXgb2fc9Di6uRSIoiPE_7rm6VC2HY5Agx1MWqB9r_TyuAU5IEeAd2OKzZpRBo90kaOgqFhbCGkGOJ6C6LLFx_0q6lHfMz7QDk9gCnf4joqi2a9LiqnbW7vlWjgT24ymQZZLFJVy7dXOc/s1600-h/Brennan+Closet+Fort-3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gXgb2fc9Di6uRSIoiPE_7rm6VC2HY5Agx1MWqB9r_TyuAU5IEeAd2OKzZpRBo90kaOgqFhbCGkGOJ6C6LLFx_0q6lHfMz7QDk9gCnf4joqi2a9LiqnbW7vlWjgT24ymQZZLFJVy7dXOc/s400/Brennan+Closet+Fort-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369510678489513826" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-cJsC9uZXzWghwUpDtVkoE4GCegRJmyfrjD-LnLEs8lbTgQlpek_sRctWT7gkboskgqtBKa0Ja8AOMnKuHtr4PlQlkrPCqbLnrcteumbh8dF88rhgwBopoKINYGCw6nT9-R5ZHnjHaLOh/s1600-h/Brennan+Closet+Fort-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-cJsC9uZXzWghwUpDtVkoE4GCegRJmyfrjD-LnLEs8lbTgQlpek_sRctWT7gkboskgqtBKa0Ja8AOMnKuHtr4PlQlkrPCqbLnrcteumbh8dF88rhgwBopoKINYGCw6nT9-R5ZHnjHaLOh/s400/Brennan+Closet+Fort-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369510675324169218" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199471103205446695.post-63324291373417964002009-08-12T15:49:00.000-04:002009-08-12T15:50:11.656-04:00Mute Math: Need I say more?Mute Math... by far the best live concert I have ever seen... ever... I mean... ever! Btw: New album, "Armistice" available on August 18.<br /><br /><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ry6GAwDCI2I&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ry6GAwDCI2I&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object><br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/otqf7oIcUTQ&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/otqf7oIcUTQ&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1