I love it when guys like Freeman and Cosby tell it like it is. Two of my favorite actors (well Cosby plays himself most of the time) call racism "racism" and it is those who cry about it who are promoting it the most.
Freeman criticizes black history month
NEW YORK (AP) — Morgan Freeman says the concept of a month dedicated to black history is "ridiculous." "You're going to relegate my history to a month?" the 68-year-old actor says in an interview on CBS' 60 Minutes to air Sunday (7 p.m. ET). "I don't want a black history month. Black history is American history."
Morgan Freeman notes there is no "white history month," and says the only way to get rid of racism is to "stop talking about it."
60 Minutes via AP
Black History Month has roots in historian Carter G. Woodson's Negro History Week, which he designated in 1926 as the second week in February to mark the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
Woodson said he hoped the week could one day be eliminated — when black history would become fundamental to American history.
Freeman notes there is no "white history month," and says the only way to get rid of racism is to "stop talking about it."
The actor says he believes the labels "black" and "white" are an obstacle to beating racism.
"I am going to stop calling you a white man and I'm going to ask you to stop calling me a black man," Freeman says.
Freeman received Oscar nominations for his roles in 1987's Street Smart, 1989's Driving Miss Daisy and 1994's The Shawshank Redemption. He finally won earlier this year for Million Dollar Baby.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Find this article at:
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2005-12-15-freeman-racism_x.htm?csp=27&POE=click-refer
Dec 16, 2005
Dec 1, 2005
Ode to the Blue Bike
17 years of partnership
UO registration sticker
New lights
Scratched paint
Broken shifter leaver
Many miles between us
Rack with one blue pannier
Lock safely tucked in the pannier
Warn out tires
Customized seat with no cover
Gas saver and Bronco saver
Leg exercise and lung exercise
21 gears of which only a few were used
Replaced rims, tires, bars, stem, and seat
What will I hang the other pannier on?
I will miss you blue bike. Stolen 11/30/05
UO registration sticker
New lights
Scratched paint
Broken shifter leaver
Many miles between us
Rack with one blue pannier
Lock safely tucked in the pannier
Warn out tires
Customized seat with no cover
Gas saver and Bronco saver
Leg exercise and lung exercise
21 gears of which only a few were used
Replaced rims, tires, bars, stem, and seat
What will I hang the other pannier on?
I will miss you blue bike. Stolen 11/30/05
Nov 21, 2005
Already in heaven?
Tailgater discussion.
Before the big game...Damion and I (and Jessica Hyman's mom, Pat) were discusing the following verse and concepts surrounding the verse, what do you think?
Eph 2.6
"...[He] made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ..."
Note that this is speaking of those who have received God's grace through Christ and that it is in past tense. "Seated us with Him in the heavenely places."
So are our spirits already in heaven?
Where is heaven?
What is Paul's point?
Before the big game...Damion and I (and Jessica Hyman's mom, Pat) were discusing the following verse and concepts surrounding the verse, what do you think?
Eph 2.6
"...[He] made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ..."
Note that this is speaking of those who have received God's grace through Christ and that it is in past tense. "Seated us with Him in the heavenely places."
So are our spirits already in heaven?
Where is heaven?
What is Paul's point?
Nov 14, 2005
POLL: How much ($$) are you wearing?
Respond to the poll by adding up the amount all the clothes you are wearing cost.
How much money are you wearing? Put what ever things you are wearing, the brand and the cost of them. DONT FORGET SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, BRAS (for girls) AND SHOES! The add all the money up and find out how much your outfit costs. For gift items estimate what the cost was.
Examples:
Alex
$50 Nike golf Turtleneck
$25 Hollister Polo
$10 Union Bay T-Shirt
$2 Boxers from Marshalls
$25 Anchor Blue Jeans
$5 Official NBA ankle socks
$40 Puma's
TOTAL: $147
Andi
Abercrombie Vest: 120$
Hollister Shirt: 22$
Hollister wife beater: 15$
Abercrombie Jeans: 80$
V.S. bra: 35$
Nordstroms undies: 10$
Kswiss tennies: 70$
Socks: 3$
TOTAL: $355.00
How much money are you wearing? Put what ever things you are wearing, the brand and the cost of them. DONT FORGET SOCKS, UNDERWEAR, BRAS (for girls) AND SHOES! The add all the money up and find out how much your outfit costs. For gift items estimate what the cost was.
Examples:
Alex
$50 Nike golf Turtleneck
$25 Hollister Polo
$10 Union Bay T-Shirt
$2 Boxers from Marshalls
$25 Anchor Blue Jeans
$5 Official NBA ankle socks
$40 Puma's
TOTAL: $147
Andi
Abercrombie Vest: 120$
Hollister Shirt: 22$
Hollister wife beater: 15$
Abercrombie Jeans: 80$
V.S. bra: 35$
Nordstroms undies: 10$
Kswiss tennies: 70$
Socks: 3$
TOTAL: $355.00
Nov 3, 2005
Lori Gant's blog
My wife has given me permission to let you all know about her blog. It is good. Great fun with pictures.
www.l2gant.blogspot.com
www.l2gant.blogspot.com
Elk Hunting
As you might have heard…no elk were found. I had a great time in the mountains of Eastern Oregon with family and friends…and we saw literally hundreds of deer and two herds of wild horses.
Every year I go elk hunting (9 of the last 10 yrs) with my step-dad and his hunting partner/best friend and their boys. They both have sons named Mike and Mark who are almost the same ages. Plus, my brother Curtis and sometimes others such as my step-brother-in-law (my step-sister’s husband) also go. They are a great group of guys … we always have a good time.
We leave Portland early Monday morning driving 4-5 hours. We stop and have breakfast at some diner along the way and then set up camp when we arrive. Our tent is approx 16’ X 36’, it is an old army tent with a wood stove in it and other modern conveniences (gas stove, refrigerator, and generator to run lights and one sleep apnea machine). We often will spend a few hours cutting wood for fire wood that first day, as well. This year we brought wood.
Tuesday we scout the area for a few hours and then relax and enjoy God’s creation.
Wednesday is opening day…we get up between 4:30 and 5:30 eat some breakfast and then head out in search of the big game. We will usually stay out until dark on opening day.
Thursday – Saturday is much the same as Wednesday; however bad weather and lack of elk sign might cause the troops to shorten the day at both ends. Plus, lunch breaks become more frequent as the week progresses.
If no elk sign is found early in the week we will try other areas. This year we drove an hour south from our tent site two days to hunt the area between Cougar and Timber mountains. This was a nice area with the added benefit of having wild horses for us to enjoy observing. But no elk.
Sunday we clean up camp, pack up the tent and other gear into the pickups, have a communion service, and then shoot our guns at targets, before heading back to Portland.
Every year I go elk hunting (9 of the last 10 yrs) with my step-dad and his hunting partner/best friend and their boys. They both have sons named Mike and Mark who are almost the same ages. Plus, my brother Curtis and sometimes others such as my step-brother-in-law (my step-sister’s husband) also go. They are a great group of guys … we always have a good time.
We leave Portland early Monday morning driving 4-5 hours. We stop and have breakfast at some diner along the way and then set up camp when we arrive. Our tent is approx 16’ X 36’, it is an old army tent with a wood stove in it and other modern conveniences (gas stove, refrigerator, and generator to run lights and one sleep apnea machine). We often will spend a few hours cutting wood for fire wood that first day, as well. This year we brought wood.
Tuesday we scout the area for a few hours and then relax and enjoy God’s creation.
Wednesday is opening day…we get up between 4:30 and 5:30 eat some breakfast and then head out in search of the big game. We will usually stay out until dark on opening day.
Thursday – Saturday is much the same as Wednesday; however bad weather and lack of elk sign might cause the troops to shorten the day at both ends. Plus, lunch breaks become more frequent as the week progresses.
If no elk sign is found early in the week we will try other areas. This year we drove an hour south from our tent site two days to hunt the area between Cougar and Timber mountains. This was a nice area with the added benefit of having wild horses for us to enjoy observing. But no elk.
Sunday we clean up camp, pack up the tent and other gear into the pickups, have a communion service, and then shoot our guns at targets, before heading back to Portland.
Duck football
Its been a week and a half. Fans have gone through the 5 stages of the grieving process: denial, anger, depression, bargaining, and acceptance.
It was hard to accept that Clemens season was over. I feel bad for the guy. Ranked 5th in the nation as a quarterback, half way through the season, breaking UO records, right and left and was on the edge of some of the biggest records. He was after these records at this Oregon which has seen some “great” quarterbacks. What is going to happen in the draft? How will he fair? It is hard to say. That injury might have cost him millions $$$.
There are bright spots… other teammates are making great plays. Brett Haberly is a great story, walk-on junior from Cottage Grove who had seven tackles, including three for losses and one sack. Anthony Trucks, Patrick Chung, and Justin Phinisee also are playing great on defense.
Offense could be great, I believe Dennis Dixon has the athletic ability to lead this team to greatness. Two weeks to prepare was a blessing. Let’s hope he works well with D. Williams, and the running backs. Speaking of the running backs, it would be nice if we could exploit all the talent we have there too.
The 23rd-ranked (AP) California Golden Bears (21st, USA Today) come to Autzen Stadium to face No. 15 (AP) Oregon (13th, USA Today) in a regionally televised game on ABC, beginning at 12:36 p.m. Both teams are coming off a bye week as the Ducks are looking to win their fifth-straight game for the first time since 2002, while the Bears look for their second straight victory.
It was hard to accept that Clemens season was over. I feel bad for the guy. Ranked 5th in the nation as a quarterback, half way through the season, breaking UO records, right and left and was on the edge of some of the biggest records. He was after these records at this Oregon which has seen some “great” quarterbacks. What is going to happen in the draft? How will he fair? It is hard to say. That injury might have cost him millions $$$.
There are bright spots… other teammates are making great plays. Brett Haberly is a great story, walk-on junior from Cottage Grove who had seven tackles, including three for losses and one sack. Anthony Trucks, Patrick Chung, and Justin Phinisee also are playing great on defense.
Offense could be great, I believe Dennis Dixon has the athletic ability to lead this team to greatness. Two weeks to prepare was a blessing. Let’s hope he works well with D. Williams, and the running backs. Speaking of the running backs, it would be nice if we could exploit all the talent we have there too.
The 23rd-ranked (AP) California Golden Bears (21st, USA Today) come to Autzen Stadium to face No. 15 (AP) Oregon (13th, USA Today) in a regionally televised game on ABC, beginning at 12:36 p.m. Both teams are coming off a bye week as the Ducks are looking to win their fifth-straight game for the first time since 2002, while the Bears look for their second straight victory.
Oct 11, 2005
Youth Leaders Retreat south of Mexico City
The following is a portion of a e-newsletter I recieved from the Petersons, missionaries from our church:
Saul is one of the finest young Christian men we know. He entered the military to be able to study medicine and eventually use that for the Lord. About 6 months ago he felt convicted to leave the military and prepare himself for full-time Christian service. Saul shared that when he was in the military they would sleep with their weapon, learn how to take it apart and assemble it in the dark and carry it with them at all times. They knew it inside and out. He said for the next month he wants to do the same with his spiritual weapon (the Bible). He wants to spend as much time in the Word as he can and carry it with him wherever he goes, sleep with it, etc. "Why should we know a physical weapon better than our spiritual weapon?"
Please pray for these youth who attended [the Youth Leaders Retreat]. They have the potential to change the youth of Mexico and God believes in them just like he does in you and I.
TZOALLI'S BIRTHDAY
One of those who attended the retreat is Tzoalli who celebrated her 30th birthday a couple of weeks ago. Tzoalli works for Johnson & Co. here in Mexico and has a heart for evangelism. She has a sister who is a Christian but her brother and father are not. She has led several of her friends to the Lord and is working on others. This year she decided to give a birthday brunch for herself. But she didn't want it to be just a regular birthday party but an evangelistic one. So she asked some friends of hers who have a huge backyard if she could use it for the event. She invited half Christian friends and the other half non-Christian friends and family that she has been witnessing to. She asked all of her non-Christian friends ahead of time to be specifically praying for those who would be coming. She had a beautiful brunch catered with little place cards with scriptures on them. She had some friends sing some Christian music, she shared a testimony of what Christ had done in her life and she had Rodney share a short devotional thought.
It was a meaningful time and those who were Christians had a great opportunity to get to know those who weren't and share in a casual environment. Please pray for Tzoalli and her continued witness to her friends and family that she will see the fruit of her efforts.
Below are two pictures from the retreat plus a picture of Tzoalli sharing at her birthday brunch.
Your Partners in Ministry,
Rodney and Linda Peterson
Saul is one of the finest young Christian men we know. He entered the military to be able to study medicine and eventually use that for the Lord. About 6 months ago he felt convicted to leave the military and prepare himself for full-time Christian service. Saul shared that when he was in the military they would sleep with their weapon, learn how to take it apart and assemble it in the dark and carry it with them at all times. They knew it inside and out. He said for the next month he wants to do the same with his spiritual weapon (the Bible). He wants to spend as much time in the Word as he can and carry it with him wherever he goes, sleep with it, etc. "Why should we know a physical weapon better than our spiritual weapon?"
Please pray for these youth who attended [the Youth Leaders Retreat]. They have the potential to change the youth of Mexico and God believes in them just like he does in you and I.
TZOALLI'S BIRTHDAY
One of those who attended the retreat is Tzoalli who celebrated her 30th birthday a couple of weeks ago. Tzoalli works for Johnson & Co. here in Mexico and has a heart for evangelism. She has a sister who is a Christian but her brother and father are not. She has led several of her friends to the Lord and is working on others. This year she decided to give a birthday brunch for herself. But she didn't want it to be just a regular birthday party but an evangelistic one. So she asked some friends of hers who have a huge backyard if she could use it for the event. She invited half Christian friends and the other half non-Christian friends and family that she has been witnessing to. She asked all of her non-Christian friends ahead of time to be specifically praying for those who would be coming. She had a beautiful brunch catered with little place cards with scriptures on them. She had some friends sing some Christian music, she shared a testimony of what Christ had done in her life and she had Rodney share a short devotional thought.
It was a meaningful time and those who were Christians had a great opportunity to get to know those who weren't and share in a casual environment. Please pray for Tzoalli and her continued witness to her friends and family that she will see the fruit of her efforts.
Below are two pictures from the retreat plus a picture of Tzoalli sharing at her birthday brunch.
Your Partners in Ministry,
Rodney and Linda Peterson
Abigail Hope was born on October 10, 2005 around 2:15pm
Abigail Hope was born on October 10, 2005 around 2:15pm to Aaron and Heidi Earlywine.
For pics: http://earlywinefamily.blogspot.com
For pics: http://earlywinefamily.blogspot.com
Walden Media talks Narnia, C.S. Lewis
The following is an article about the upcoming Narnia movie:
Walden Media talks Narnia, C.S. Lewis
14 Sep 2005 by Paul Martin
Contributing sources: BPnews
Christians tend to think of Hollywood as a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah inhabited by the living dead. Indeed, evidence would indicate that the Sodom and Gomorrah part is pretty accurate. But its citizenry consists of all kinds, including those who desire to create family friendly films and those who even proclaim a relationship with the Almighty.
One such man is Micheal Flaherty, who, along with college friend Cary Granat, formed Walden Media ("Because of Winn Dixie"; "I Am David") six years ago. Their purpose was to make great films from celebrated literature.
(Actually, Walden Media is located in Boston, but then, there really is no Hollywood nucleus. The populous of the entertainment community resides throughout the world.)
Forming the film production company was a challenge, one not taken lightly by the company’s founders.
“We want to be the next great trusted brand for families, particularly for teachers, libraries and parents," Flaherty says. "And we have to deliver on our mission to use the film and the book to make learning more exciting for kids."
The Walden Media CEOs now face their greatest challenge and very likely their most rewarding contribution to the film world -- the making of "The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe."
Based on the best-selling children’s book by C.S. Lewis, the story concerns four children who discover a magical wardrobe that transports them into the realm of Narnia, a land inhabited by talking animals and many a life lesson. There, the children join forces with the courageous lion, Aslan, to defeat the evil forces of the White Witch.
“We go to a lot of teacher conferences, library conferences, curriculum conferences," Flaherty says. "That’s an opportunity for us to ask teachers and librarians what books their students are reading. And what books they want to see made into movies. The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe has always been at the top of the list.”
A step up from most children’s fables, the book and the film are full of Christian analogies and symbolism. What’s more, many churchgoers find that the story serves to open a dialogue between parent and child concerning the sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf.
Asked if this religious kinship raised eyebrows at Disney, Flaherty says, “No, no one ever separated out themes or characters from the book anytime we had a discussion about it. Everyone embraced it as a great story.”
With Disney embracing the Christian philosophy of C. S. Lewis, surely that means a filmmatic makeover.
“Well first, the film is the book, pure and simple,” Flaherty says. “So any themes in the book are there in the film. For me, the main themes are family and forgiveness. Those are the two great themes. I especially pay attention to them now that I have three children. What’s unbelievable is the friendships between the brothers and sisters in the story. And of course, the theme of forgiveness is beautifully incorporated.”
“There are a couple of educational guides on the site (Waldon.com) that parents can work on with their kids. Basically, it details how we brought the book to life. It also goes into some history behind The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe and its author.”
If Wardrobe fits moviegoers, will Walden Media embrace other projects by the author?
“I’d love to," Flaherty said. "One of our first projects was The Question of God, a documentary that examines the religious debate between Sigmund Freud, a life-long critic of religion, and C.S. Lewis, who became America’s most influential proponent of faith based on reason. Screwtape Letters is one of my favorite books and Mere Christianity was one of the most influential books in my life."
Walden Media talks Narnia, C.S. Lewis
14 Sep 2005 by Paul Martin
Contributing sources: BPnews
Christians tend to think of Hollywood as a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah inhabited by the living dead. Indeed, evidence would indicate that the Sodom and Gomorrah part is pretty accurate. But its citizenry consists of all kinds, including those who desire to create family friendly films and those who even proclaim a relationship with the Almighty.
One such man is Micheal Flaherty, who, along with college friend Cary Granat, formed Walden Media ("Because of Winn Dixie"; "I Am David") six years ago. Their purpose was to make great films from celebrated literature.
(Actually, Walden Media is located in Boston, but then, there really is no Hollywood nucleus. The populous of the entertainment community resides throughout the world.)
Forming the film production company was a challenge, one not taken lightly by the company’s founders.
“We want to be the next great trusted brand for families, particularly for teachers, libraries and parents," Flaherty says. "And we have to deliver on our mission to use the film and the book to make learning more exciting for kids."
The Walden Media CEOs now face their greatest challenge and very likely their most rewarding contribution to the film world -- the making of "The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe."
Based on the best-selling children’s book by C.S. Lewis, the story concerns four children who discover a magical wardrobe that transports them into the realm of Narnia, a land inhabited by talking animals and many a life lesson. There, the children join forces with the courageous lion, Aslan, to defeat the evil forces of the White Witch.
“We go to a lot of teacher conferences, library conferences, curriculum conferences," Flaherty says. "That’s an opportunity for us to ask teachers and librarians what books their students are reading. And what books they want to see made into movies. The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe has always been at the top of the list.”
A step up from most children’s fables, the book and the film are full of Christian analogies and symbolism. What’s more, many churchgoers find that the story serves to open a dialogue between parent and child concerning the sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf.
Asked if this religious kinship raised eyebrows at Disney, Flaherty says, “No, no one ever separated out themes or characters from the book anytime we had a discussion about it. Everyone embraced it as a great story.”
With Disney embracing the Christian philosophy of C. S. Lewis, surely that means a filmmatic makeover.
“Well first, the film is the book, pure and simple,” Flaherty says. “So any themes in the book are there in the film. For me, the main themes are family and forgiveness. Those are the two great themes. I especially pay attention to them now that I have three children. What’s unbelievable is the friendships between the brothers and sisters in the story. And of course, the theme of forgiveness is beautifully incorporated.”
“There are a couple of educational guides on the site (Waldon.com) that parents can work on with their kids. Basically, it details how we brought the book to life. It also goes into some history behind The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe and its author.”
If Wardrobe fits moviegoers, will Walden Media embrace other projects by the author?
“I’d love to," Flaherty said. "One of our first projects was The Question of God, a documentary that examines the religious debate between Sigmund Freud, a life-long critic of religion, and C.S. Lewis, who became America’s most influential proponent of faith based on reason. Screwtape Letters is one of my favorite books and Mere Christianity was one of the most influential books in my life."
Oct 6, 2005
Bridges of Reconciliation
Last night at Middle School Youth Group we talked about building bridges of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5 says we have been reconciled through Christ and that we are to be Ministers of Reconciliation.
The following story illustrates how Jesus builds bridges of reconciliation between people.
There were two brothers. Their father had a large farm and when he became too old to work, he called his sons to him. "I am too old to work anymore," he said. "I will divide my farm in half and give each of you one half. I know that you will always work together and will be good friends."
When the brothers first started farming on their adjoining farms, they were the best of friends and would share everything together. For years, they helped each other work the farms and even loaned each other equipment.
Then, one day there was an argument between the two brothers and they stopped speaking to one another. Things got so bad that one of the brothers took a bulldozer and dug a trench between the two farms so that a creek could run between them, creating a clear boundary.
For many years, not a word was spoken between them.
One day, one of the brothers was at his house when a carpenter came to his door and said, “I would like to do some work. Do you have any work that I can do?” The brother thought for a moment and then replied, “See that big pile of lumber over there by my barn? I want you to build an eight foot high fence out of it so I don’t have to look at my brother’s farm or even see his face anymore! I’m going into town and I’ll be back this evening.” The carpenter said he understood and would do his best.
When he came back that evening, he was shocked to see that the carpenter had not followed his instructions. Instead of building a high fence there, he had built a bridge over the stream. The man walked down to take a look at the bridge, and as he did, his brother walked toward him from the other side. His brother said, “After all the terrible things I’ve done to you over the years, I can't believe that you would build a bridge and welcome me back.” He reached out to his brother and gave him a big hug.
As the brothers had a happy reunion, the carpenter turned to go. “Wait,” the farmer said, “I have other jobs for you.” “No thanks,” said the carpenter as he hoisted his toolbox to his shoulder, “I have other bridges to build.”
Sometimes you and I have a disagreement with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When that happens, we often build a fence between ourselves and them. We stop talking to them. We don't want to see them. We don't want to be around them. That isn't what Jesus wants us to do. Instead of fences, he wants us to build a bridge of love between us.
Dear Father, we know it is your desire for us to live together in peace and harmony. Help us to love one another. Amen.
The following story illustrates how Jesus builds bridges of reconciliation between people.
There were two brothers. Their father had a large farm and when he became too old to work, he called his sons to him. "I am too old to work anymore," he said. "I will divide my farm in half and give each of you one half. I know that you will always work together and will be good friends."
When the brothers first started farming on their adjoining farms, they were the best of friends and would share everything together. For years, they helped each other work the farms and even loaned each other equipment.
Then, one day there was an argument between the two brothers and they stopped speaking to one another. Things got so bad that one of the brothers took a bulldozer and dug a trench between the two farms so that a creek could run between them, creating a clear boundary.
For many years, not a word was spoken between them.
One day, one of the brothers was at his house when a carpenter came to his door and said, “I would like to do some work. Do you have any work that I can do?” The brother thought for a moment and then replied, “See that big pile of lumber over there by my barn? I want you to build an eight foot high fence out of it so I don’t have to look at my brother’s farm or even see his face anymore! I’m going into town and I’ll be back this evening.” The carpenter said he understood and would do his best.
When he came back that evening, he was shocked to see that the carpenter had not followed his instructions. Instead of building a high fence there, he had built a bridge over the stream. The man walked down to take a look at the bridge, and as he did, his brother walked toward him from the other side. His brother said, “After all the terrible things I’ve done to you over the years, I can't believe that you would build a bridge and welcome me back.” He reached out to his brother and gave him a big hug.
As the brothers had a happy reunion, the carpenter turned to go. “Wait,” the farmer said, “I have other jobs for you.” “No thanks,” said the carpenter as he hoisted his toolbox to his shoulder, “I have other bridges to build.”
Sometimes you and I have a disagreement with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When that happens, we often build a fence between ourselves and them. We stop talking to them. We don't want to see them. We don't want to be around them. That isn't what Jesus wants us to do. Instead of fences, he wants us to build a bridge of love between us.
Dear Father, we know it is your desire for us to live together in peace and harmony. Help us to love one another. Amen.
Oct 3, 2005
Saved - the movie
Have you seen the movie "Saved"? I have read some reviews of it and am interested in seein it when it comes out on DVD.
Below is a review from www.theooze.com
LINK:http://www.theooze.com/articles/article.cfm?id=939
SAVED
by Adam Beach
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As an extremely sardonic and satirical critique of Modern Christian pop culture, the movie Saved has been largely scorned and ruthlessly ridiculed in Evangelical sectors for its merciless look into the shallow world of the modern evangelical movement. Yet, some Christians have reacted to the movie with genuine interest and inquisitive thought. When viewed in its entirety, Saved proves to be a valid and much needed satirical critique of the growing Christian subculture. The movie explores, comically and critically, the world and lives of students and teachers at a Christian private school, the American Eagle Christian School. It addresses Modern Christianity’s view on such issues as swearing, homosexuality, sex, adultery, smoking, non-Christians, worship, and speaking in tongues. Being a movie meant to critique, Christianity’s views regarding the aforementioned issues are mercilessly shredded throughout the movie. Many of these critiques are valid and accurate, but some are overstated. A valid critique is Christianity’s lack of tolerance of homosexuals. In general, the Christians in Saved are portrayed as being intolerant and abusive toward homosexuals, treating them as if they were inhuman and in need of “curing.” This is a realistic representation of Christianity’s view of homosexuals in modern day America. It is tragic to see so many Christians acting in condemnation and hate towards homosexuals, while turning a blind eye to such glaring issues as adultery, divorce, and premarital sex. The movie also factually shows Christianity’s refusal to acknowledge these ever present devastating issues. The fact is, Jesus said little to nothing regarding homosexuality, but rarely stopped talking about loving your [homosexual] neighbor as yourself and taking care of the poor. Another valid criticism in the movie is its portrayal of Christianity’s taboo concerning smoking and swearing. Both of these issues reveal little about one’s heart. It is pitiful that the church has wasted so much time, energy, and anguish on such external issues. Though Saved stands as an excellent critique of Modern Christianity, it did cross the line in few areas, such as worship, Christianity’s view of non-Christians, and prayer. The director of Saved demonstrates an obvious understanding of Christian pop culture, but does ease into comical error in these few areas. In nearly every instance of exaggeration or error, it is obviously for the purpose of comedy. Yet, this does not erase the fact the Christians were made to appear fairly shallow, goofy, and condemning in many scenes throughout the movie. It is because of these discrepancies that many Christians have discounted this fine movie as ludicrous. Unfortunately, many Christians will deliberately avoid seeing this film simply because their skin is too thin to take a healthy dose of valid comical criticism. Many Christians have sadly forgotten how to discern. Void of the ability to accept valid critique, the Christian church has been weakened. Christians need to have the wisdom to step back from their presuppositions, and honestly evaluate their actions and views. Saved is a perfect example of a reasonable but frank critique of modern Christianity, that would be widely accepted and evaluated by Christians if we had any desire to be honest and genuine in our walk with Christ.
Below is a review from www.theooze.com
LINK:http://www.theooze.com/articles/article.cfm?id=939
SAVED
by Adam Beach
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As an extremely sardonic and satirical critique of Modern Christian pop culture, the movie Saved has been largely scorned and ruthlessly ridiculed in Evangelical sectors for its merciless look into the shallow world of the modern evangelical movement. Yet, some Christians have reacted to the movie with genuine interest and inquisitive thought. When viewed in its entirety, Saved proves to be a valid and much needed satirical critique of the growing Christian subculture. The movie explores, comically and critically, the world and lives of students and teachers at a Christian private school, the American Eagle Christian School. It addresses Modern Christianity’s view on such issues as swearing, homosexuality, sex, adultery, smoking, non-Christians, worship, and speaking in tongues. Being a movie meant to critique, Christianity’s views regarding the aforementioned issues are mercilessly shredded throughout the movie. Many of these critiques are valid and accurate, but some are overstated. A valid critique is Christianity’s lack of tolerance of homosexuals. In general, the Christians in Saved are portrayed as being intolerant and abusive toward homosexuals, treating them as if they were inhuman and in need of “curing.” This is a realistic representation of Christianity’s view of homosexuals in modern day America. It is tragic to see so many Christians acting in condemnation and hate towards homosexuals, while turning a blind eye to such glaring issues as adultery, divorce, and premarital sex. The movie also factually shows Christianity’s refusal to acknowledge these ever present devastating issues. The fact is, Jesus said little to nothing regarding homosexuality, but rarely stopped talking about loving your [homosexual] neighbor as yourself and taking care of the poor. Another valid criticism in the movie is its portrayal of Christianity’s taboo concerning smoking and swearing. Both of these issues reveal little about one’s heart. It is pitiful that the church has wasted so much time, energy, and anguish on such external issues. Though Saved stands as an excellent critique of Modern Christianity, it did cross the line in few areas, such as worship, Christianity’s view of non-Christians, and prayer. The director of Saved demonstrates an obvious understanding of Christian pop culture, but does ease into comical error in these few areas. In nearly every instance of exaggeration or error, it is obviously for the purpose of comedy. Yet, this does not erase the fact the Christians were made to appear fairly shallow, goofy, and condemning in many scenes throughout the movie. It is because of these discrepancies that many Christians have discounted this fine movie as ludicrous. Unfortunately, many Christians will deliberately avoid seeing this film simply because their skin is too thin to take a healthy dose of valid comical criticism. Many Christians have sadly forgotten how to discern. Void of the ability to accept valid critique, the Christian church has been weakened. Christians need to have the wisdom to step back from their presuppositions, and honestly evaluate their actions and views. Saved is a perfect example of a reasonable but frank critique of modern Christianity, that would be widely accepted and evaluated by Christians if we had any desire to be honest and genuine in our walk with Christ.
Sep 28, 2005
Jesus Isn't Cool, Discipleship v. ???,
Is the church/youth group to entertain those who attend or is it to make disciples?
Are we to make disciples or converts or church members?
What does it mean to make disciples?
What is a Disciple of Christ? Answers will be given on Sunday night in a couple weeks.
I ran across a good article recently titled “Jesus Isn’t Cool” (http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=1219) and a good Blog in response (http://www.internetmonk.com/archives/2005/09/020017.html), with good comments and then a 30 minute podcast(?) (http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/the_white_horse_inn/Archives.asp) that even though I don’t agree with all these guys’ theology or even church methodology, they make some good comments about what the church is all about. And it’s not entertainment. Click on the broadcast titled “My Kids are Bored in Church.”
Some say, “What you win them with is what you will keep them with.” This means if someone becomes a Christian (or church member) because of a fancy presentation, concert, game night, or good snacks ... that is what they will expect the church to be, if it changes they are no longer interested.
What should our main things be?
The following is a paragraph from the “Jesus Isn’t Cool” article:
“One student … participated in his church’s “”40 Days of Purpose”” campaign, hoping that an exploration of Rick Warren’s popular book The Purpose Driven Life would help. Instead, he reached this conclusion: ““I don’t understand why you need God for a sense of purpose, self-esteem, or whatever … lots of people have that without God.”” This young man was on to something.”
What does he mean by this?
What is God calling us to be?
Are we to make disciples or converts or church members?
What does it mean to make disciples?
What is a Disciple of Christ? Answers will be given on Sunday night in a couple weeks.
I ran across a good article recently titled “Jesus Isn’t Cool” (http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=1219) and a good Blog in response (http://www.internetmonk.com/archives/2005/09/020017.html), with good comments and then a 30 minute podcast(?) (http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/the_white_horse_inn/Archives.asp) that even though I don’t agree with all these guys’ theology or even church methodology, they make some good comments about what the church is all about. And it’s not entertainment. Click on the broadcast titled “My Kids are Bored in Church.”
Some say, “What you win them with is what you will keep them with.” This means if someone becomes a Christian (or church member) because of a fancy presentation, concert, game night, or good snacks ... that is what they will expect the church to be, if it changes they are no longer interested.
What should our main things be?
The following is a paragraph from the “Jesus Isn’t Cool” article:
“One student … participated in his church’s “”40 Days of Purpose”” campaign, hoping that an exploration of Rick Warren’s popular book The Purpose Driven Life would help. Instead, he reached this conclusion: ““I don’t understand why you need God for a sense of purpose, self-esteem, or whatever … lots of people have that without God.”” This young man was on to something.”
What does he mean by this?
What is God calling us to be?
Sep 26, 2005
Ducks v USC
Well it started well. Just like I suggested.
USC was intimidated by Autzen, in my opinion. That didn't last too long.
Overall it showed we have a good team (when you count our stadium/crowd as part of our team). And USC is possibly the greatest ever.
Reggie Bush is amazing...its like he is a NFL player is playing with kids. The way he moved, wow! The way he would use hits to his advantage was awesome.
USC was intimidated by Autzen, in my opinion. That didn't last too long.
Overall it showed we have a good team (when you count our stadium/crowd as part of our team). And USC is possibly the greatest ever.
Reggie Bush is amazing...its like he is a NFL player is playing with kids. The way he moved, wow! The way he would use hits to his advantage was awesome.
Sep 18, 2005
Duck Football
So the Ducks pulled out a close one with 23rd ranked Fresno State on Saturday. That means we are 3-0.
Next week we play #1 USC at Autzen. That place is going to rock.
The Ducks need to score early to get the crowd going and then score in every quarter to keep them going, because no one in their right mind thinks of us as favored to win. But if they give us a little hope it is going to be fun.
I wish I could be there, no tickets though. And scalpers are probably asking top dollar. It’s on TV so I’ll get to see some of the excitement!
Next week we play #1 USC at Autzen. That place is going to rock.
The Ducks need to score early to get the crowd going and then score in every quarter to keep them going, because no one in their right mind thinks of us as favored to win. But if they give us a little hope it is going to be fun.
I wish I could be there, no tickets though. And scalpers are probably asking top dollar. It’s on TV so I’ll get to see some of the excitement!
Sep 17, 2005
Sep 14, 2005
Sep 12, 2005
SC3 E-Mail Newsletter 9.12.2005
Contents
1. Something for Your Heart
2. Surf Report
3. Forgettable Fact
4. Potent Quotables
5. Parting Shot
===========oursponsor===========
SHE'S HIP. SHE'S NEW. SHE'S TROUBLE.
Trouble comes in small packages. This one is five feet tall and weighs 98 pounds. Her name is Serenity Harper and she's one obnoxious little bundle of attitude, anger, and animosity. Can the care and concern of Derek, Kimberly, and the rest of the Prayer Club break through Serenity's tough shell—and prove to her that true love does exist?
Serenity: The New Bad Girl in Town—a manga series for teens:
http://www.serenitybuzz.com/
=================================
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
(John 3:1-21)
I can hear crickets jabbering in the shadows among the trees. Nearby in a clearing a campfire flickers. Jesus and his buddies are talking around the fire. I see them seated there in the dance of darkness and light. Someone laughs. Someone in the shadows coughs.
I've chosen to come at night when no one else can see me. No one else will even know I was here.
But I had to come. I had to meet him for myself. You see, I've heard him speak. I've seen his miracles. He's different. I know that much. There's something mysterious about him, yet something familiar, too—something that's both comforting and deeply unsettling.
I step on a twig, and it snaps underfoot. They all look up, silent now. I emerge from the shadows, and I'm sure they recognize by my clothes that I'm someone important, a teacher of the Jews. A couple of them smile and nod, obviously impressed that I would show up here to talk with their friend.
But before any of them can say a word, I clear my throat and address Jesus. "Rabbi," I say, bowing out of respect. "We know you are a teacher sent from God, for no one could possibly do the wonders you do unless God were with him."
I pause and wait for him to acknowledge the compliment.
But he doesn't say anything. He just studies my face. I can see the flicker of shadow and light on his features as the campfire leaps and twists a few feet away.
I expect him to say something like, "Gee, thanks. I appreciate that. So kind of you to mention it. Just trying to be faithful there. Just using the gifts and talents God has given me." But he doesn't, and that surprises me.
Instead he grunts, "So you think God's kingdom is proven by outward signs? Well, no one can even see God's kingdom unless he's born again."
Born again? What?
I try to wrap my mind around his words. Is he trying to tell me I've never even seen God's kingdom? Does he know who he's talking to?!
Everyone knows Jesus likes to use shocking images in his teaching, images of thieves and seeds and pigs and pearls, but . . . being born again? What's that supposed to mean?
My gaze drifts from Jesus to his disciples and then back to him. Finally, I say, "But how can that be, Jesus? How can someone be born again? You can't reenter the womb!" My words are alive with logic. I'm chuckling a little, but he isn't. Crickets chirp in the background.
"No one can enter God's kingdom unless he's born of water and the Spirit," answers Jesus, pushing a stick into the fire to reposition the coals. In the new light of the fire he must notice the bewildered look on my face because he motions for me to have a seat. I scrunch down on one of the logs they've pulled up beside the campfire. I see his wild features in the blazing light.
There's nothing tame about this man.
"We all know that humans have human babies. Well, God's Spirit produces spiritual babies." A cloud of sparks drifts skyward. "Your problem is that you think it's all explainable. But it's not supposed to be reasonable. The process is as mysterious as the wind. You can't even understand the direction of the wind—its origin or its destination. How can you expect to nail down spiritual birth? How are you gonna fit that into your neat little theological box?"
My heart is beating faster now. His words have an edge to them. He seems impatient with me, like he's talking to a child who hasn't been listening in school.
This guy doesn't beat around the bush, does he?
I watch the sparks rise into the darkness. They ride invisible currents of air, curling up into the night. Wind carries them along toward the stars—the wind of the fire, the breath of the flames. I watch them dance upward into the darkness and then disappear into the unknown. I'm trying to understand all that he's telling me. I really am. But I can't seem to make sense of it.
Finally, I shake my head. "I'm . . . I'm sorry. I don't understand."
And then Jesus loses his cool. He rises and steps toward me, filling the space between me and the fire. "You teach others, don't you? You teach the word of God . . . yet you don't understand it yourself?!"
I blink, unsure what to say. He sighs and shakes his head.
Then he speaks of purpose—the purpose of his life, the purpose of our lives, and the importance of faith at the center of it all. Over and over, in half a dozen ways, he tells me my problem isn't in my head, but in my heart. It isn't facts I need, he says, but faith. Not proof, but belief.
And he speaks to me of fear—the fear of being revealed. He tells me most people hide and are afraid to come into the light for fear that their evil deeds will be exposed.
Light and darkness . . . secrets and revelation . . . truth and lies . . . faith and fear . . . all of his words sail through my head.
He's saying I'm in love with the darkness! The words sting me. That's what he's saying. That's what he means!
The other men are silent. And then the truth hits me like a fist in the gut.
He's right, Nicodemus, you are afraid of the truth, you are in love with the darkness . . . Why else would you have come at night?
I swallow hard. How does he know? How can he see so deeply into my soul? How can he know my heart so well when we've only just met?
"But," he says at last, "whoever lives by the truth, Nicodemus, comes into the light."
His words don't sound like doctrine at all—more like an invitation.
Then Jesus is done. The fire crackles. There's nothing more to say. I nod to him. He nods back.
I look at the men sitting there, listening to all of this, studying me. I wonder how many of them have believed . . . have been reborn . . . have seen the kingdom . . . have stepped into the light.
Then I leave the fire and walk into the shadows again. And I wonder if I'm going into the shadows, or through them? Into or through . . .
His words snap at my heels as I stumble back home through the raven-black night.
Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light.
I notice stars flickering high above me like sparks from a thousand fires that finally found their way home through the night.
Am I walking into the night or through it to the other side?
"Through it," I say to myself. "I'm walking through it."
And I take a step forward.
Toward home.
Taken from "Never the Same: Stories of Those Who Encountered Jesus" by Steven James, copyright 2005, Youth Specialties/Zondervan. Used by permission. Order the book here: http://www.youthspecialties.com/product/259517
2. SURF REPORT
~ A Student's Guide to Research with the WWW
A tutorial guide to conducting research on the World Wide Web.
http://www.slu.edu/departments/english/research/
~ ClassBrain.com
Lots of online games in lots of categories
http://www.classbrain.com/artgames/publish/
3. FORGETTABLE FACT
More money is printed for the Monopoly board game every day than for the US treasury!
4. POTENT QUOTABLES
"There is not enough darkness in all the world to put out the light of even one small candle"
- Robert Alden
"Truly, it is in darkness that one finds the light, so when we are in sorrow, then this light is nearest of all to us"
- Meister Eckhart
5. PARTING SHOT
Looking for a helping hand? There's one on your arm.
copyright 2005 :: Youth Specialties
300 S. Pierce St. // El Cajon, CA 92020
888.346.4179
1. Something for Your Heart
2. Surf Report
3. Forgettable Fact
4. Potent Quotables
5. Parting Shot
===========oursponsor===========
SHE'S HIP. SHE'S NEW. SHE'S TROUBLE.
Trouble comes in small packages. This one is five feet tall and weighs 98 pounds. Her name is Serenity Harper and she's one obnoxious little bundle of attitude, anger, and animosity. Can the care and concern of Derek, Kimberly, and the rest of the Prayer Club break through Serenity's tough shell—and prove to her that true love does exist?
Serenity: The New Bad Girl in Town—a manga series for teens:
http://www.serenitybuzz.com/
=================================
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
(John 3:1-21)
I can hear crickets jabbering in the shadows among the trees. Nearby in a clearing a campfire flickers. Jesus and his buddies are talking around the fire. I see them seated there in the dance of darkness and light. Someone laughs. Someone in the shadows coughs.
I've chosen to come at night when no one else can see me. No one else will even know I was here.
But I had to come. I had to meet him for myself. You see, I've heard him speak. I've seen his miracles. He's different. I know that much. There's something mysterious about him, yet something familiar, too—something that's both comforting and deeply unsettling.
I step on a twig, and it snaps underfoot. They all look up, silent now. I emerge from the shadows, and I'm sure they recognize by my clothes that I'm someone important, a teacher of the Jews. A couple of them smile and nod, obviously impressed that I would show up here to talk with their friend.
But before any of them can say a word, I clear my throat and address Jesus. "Rabbi," I say, bowing out of respect. "We know you are a teacher sent from God, for no one could possibly do the wonders you do unless God were with him."
I pause and wait for him to acknowledge the compliment.
But he doesn't say anything. He just studies my face. I can see the flicker of shadow and light on his features as the campfire leaps and twists a few feet away.
I expect him to say something like, "Gee, thanks. I appreciate that. So kind of you to mention it. Just trying to be faithful there. Just using the gifts and talents God has given me." But he doesn't, and that surprises me.
Instead he grunts, "So you think God's kingdom is proven by outward signs? Well, no one can even see God's kingdom unless he's born again."
Born again? What?
I try to wrap my mind around his words. Is he trying to tell me I've never even seen God's kingdom? Does he know who he's talking to?!
Everyone knows Jesus likes to use shocking images in his teaching, images of thieves and seeds and pigs and pearls, but . . . being born again? What's that supposed to mean?
My gaze drifts from Jesus to his disciples and then back to him. Finally, I say, "But how can that be, Jesus? How can someone be born again? You can't reenter the womb!" My words are alive with logic. I'm chuckling a little, but he isn't. Crickets chirp in the background.
"No one can enter God's kingdom unless he's born of water and the Spirit," answers Jesus, pushing a stick into the fire to reposition the coals. In the new light of the fire he must notice the bewildered look on my face because he motions for me to have a seat. I scrunch down on one of the logs they've pulled up beside the campfire. I see his wild features in the blazing light.
There's nothing tame about this man.
"We all know that humans have human babies. Well, God's Spirit produces spiritual babies." A cloud of sparks drifts skyward. "Your problem is that you think it's all explainable. But it's not supposed to be reasonable. The process is as mysterious as the wind. You can't even understand the direction of the wind—its origin or its destination. How can you expect to nail down spiritual birth? How are you gonna fit that into your neat little theological box?"
My heart is beating faster now. His words have an edge to them. He seems impatient with me, like he's talking to a child who hasn't been listening in school.
This guy doesn't beat around the bush, does he?
I watch the sparks rise into the darkness. They ride invisible currents of air, curling up into the night. Wind carries them along toward the stars—the wind of the fire, the breath of the flames. I watch them dance upward into the darkness and then disappear into the unknown. I'm trying to understand all that he's telling me. I really am. But I can't seem to make sense of it.
Finally, I shake my head. "I'm . . . I'm sorry. I don't understand."
And then Jesus loses his cool. He rises and steps toward me, filling the space between me and the fire. "You teach others, don't you? You teach the word of God . . . yet you don't understand it yourself?!"
I blink, unsure what to say. He sighs and shakes his head.
Then he speaks of purpose—the purpose of his life, the purpose of our lives, and the importance of faith at the center of it all. Over and over, in half a dozen ways, he tells me my problem isn't in my head, but in my heart. It isn't facts I need, he says, but faith. Not proof, but belief.
And he speaks to me of fear—the fear of being revealed. He tells me most people hide and are afraid to come into the light for fear that their evil deeds will be exposed.
Light and darkness . . . secrets and revelation . . . truth and lies . . . faith and fear . . . all of his words sail through my head.
He's saying I'm in love with the darkness! The words sting me. That's what he's saying. That's what he means!
The other men are silent. And then the truth hits me like a fist in the gut.
He's right, Nicodemus, you are afraid of the truth, you are in love with the darkness . . . Why else would you have come at night?
I swallow hard. How does he know? How can he see so deeply into my soul? How can he know my heart so well when we've only just met?
"But," he says at last, "whoever lives by the truth, Nicodemus, comes into the light."
His words don't sound like doctrine at all—more like an invitation.
Then Jesus is done. The fire crackles. There's nothing more to say. I nod to him. He nods back.
I look at the men sitting there, listening to all of this, studying me. I wonder how many of them have believed . . . have been reborn . . . have seen the kingdom . . . have stepped into the light.
Then I leave the fire and walk into the shadows again. And I wonder if I'm going into the shadows, or through them? Into or through . . .
His words snap at my heels as I stumble back home through the raven-black night.
Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light.
I notice stars flickering high above me like sparks from a thousand fires that finally found their way home through the night.
Am I walking into the night or through it to the other side?
"Through it," I say to myself. "I'm walking through it."
And I take a step forward.
Toward home.
Taken from "Never the Same: Stories of Those Who Encountered Jesus" by Steven James, copyright 2005, Youth Specialties/Zondervan. Used by permission. Order the book here: http://www.youthspecialties.com/product/259517
2. SURF REPORT
~ A Student's Guide to Research with the WWW
A tutorial guide to conducting research on the World Wide Web.
http://www.slu.edu/departments/english/research/
~ ClassBrain.com
Lots of online games in lots of categories
http://www.classbrain.com/artgames/publish/
3. FORGETTABLE FACT
More money is printed for the Monopoly board game every day than for the US treasury!
4. POTENT QUOTABLES
"There is not enough darkness in all the world to put out the light of even one small candle"
- Robert Alden
"Truly, it is in darkness that one finds the light, so when we are in sorrow, then this light is nearest of all to us"
- Meister Eckhart
5. PARTING SHOT
Looking for a helping hand? There's one on your arm.
copyright 2005 :: Youth Specialties
300 S. Pierce St. // El Cajon, CA 92020
888.346.4179
Sep 1, 2005
New Orleans - Katrina
New Orleans…it is amazing how bad it is down there. Very sad stories. I can’t imagine losing family, friends, home, all possessions, neighborhoods, everything familiar. And "Fats" Domino is missing.
My prayers are that the survivors might find God and a true relationship with Him through Jesus Christ is all this. God is good all the time! Even in tragedy He is working.
However … who’s idea was it to live 5-10’ below sea level? What were they thinking … with a 20 mile long lake lurking over them just beyond a levee? Whose idea was that?
So now we have 1000’s dead and billions and billions of property damage. Who’s going to pay for it? We are. Our government will give billions. Our insurance companies will pay out billions. Therefore, our taxes will go up and insurance rates will go up. So who pays for these people’s lack of judgment, you and me.
We, in the northwest, live in an area of the country that has virtually no natural disasters that cost the rest of the country, but we pay for them to live in hurricane country below sea level. Where is the fairness in that?
Is it a good idea to rebuild these areas of New Orleans that are below sea level? I think not. Move north, man.
I like what JACK CHAMBLESS, ECONOMICS PROFESSOR, VALENCIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE said to FOXNEWS in response to the question “You don’t believe one taxpayer dollar should go toward rebuilding the city of New Orleans?”:
“Well, if we look at Article One, Section Eight of the United States Constitution — and I encourage all Americans to look at that before we start opening up our tax coffers to pay for all of this — we have every obligation to provide for New Orleans in terms of charity, private charity from one person to the other.
But the founding fathers never intended, Article One, section Eight of the Constitution, never intended to provide one dollar of taxpayer dollars to pay for any disaster or anything that we might call charity. What we now have is the law of unintended consequences taking place, where FEMA has come into New Orleans, a place where, ecologically, it makes no sense to have levees keeping the Mississippi River from flooding into New Orleans, like it naturally should.
Now with FEMA bailing out Louisiana, bailing out Florida and lowering the overall cost of living in these places, we have people with no incentive to leave. And the law of unintended consequences means that more people are dying with every one of these storms. They're becoming more and more expensive, more and more property loss, just because the federal government has violated the Constitution to provide for these funds.”
My prayers are that the survivors might find God and a true relationship with Him through Jesus Christ is all this. God is good all the time! Even in tragedy He is working.
However … who’s idea was it to live 5-10’ below sea level? What were they thinking … with a 20 mile long lake lurking over them just beyond a levee? Whose idea was that?
So now we have 1000’s dead and billions and billions of property damage. Who’s going to pay for it? We are. Our government will give billions. Our insurance companies will pay out billions. Therefore, our taxes will go up and insurance rates will go up. So who pays for these people’s lack of judgment, you and me.
We, in the northwest, live in an area of the country that has virtually no natural disasters that cost the rest of the country, but we pay for them to live in hurricane country below sea level. Where is the fairness in that?
Is it a good idea to rebuild these areas of New Orleans that are below sea level? I think not. Move north, man.
I like what JACK CHAMBLESS, ECONOMICS PROFESSOR, VALENCIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE said to FOXNEWS in response to the question “You don’t believe one taxpayer dollar should go toward rebuilding the city of New Orleans?”:
“Well, if we look at Article One, Section Eight of the United States Constitution — and I encourage all Americans to look at that before we start opening up our tax coffers to pay for all of this — we have every obligation to provide for New Orleans in terms of charity, private charity from one person to the other.
But the founding fathers never intended, Article One, section Eight of the Constitution, never intended to provide one dollar of taxpayer dollars to pay for any disaster or anything that we might call charity. What we now have is the law of unintended consequences taking place, where FEMA has come into New Orleans, a place where, ecologically, it makes no sense to have levees keeping the Mississippi River from flooding into New Orleans, like it naturally should.
Now with FEMA bailing out Louisiana, bailing out Florida and lowering the overall cost of living in these places, we have people with no incentive to leave. And the law of unintended consequences means that more people are dying with every one of these storms. They're becoming more and more expensive, more and more property loss, just because the federal government has violated the Constitution to provide for these funds.”
Aug 31, 2005
SC3 Newsletter Article
We worship in a variety of ways and places. Worship is to give extravagant respect, honor, or devotion.
In using this definition it can be seen that the people around us worship many different gods (boyfriends, girlfriends, bands, singers, athletes, cars, toys,…).
We can worship the true God in many ways as well. One of my favorite ways is to hike in the forest admiring Him for His handiwork.
I have had a few opportunities to do that this summer. This week I went by myself for a prayer and fasting hike. Jesus went up the mountain to pray, I followed His example.
I went to an area I had not been to before (just 30 miles from town) and found two guys on bikes exploring also, but they were from Germany. I am amazed that we live so close to beautiful areas that we rarely explore and other people travel 1/2 way around the world to admire our neighborhood.
Paul the Apostle tells us we can learn about God through His amazing creation (Rom 1.20).
In exploring creation we get bodily exercise which Paul says profits us, however discipline for the purpose of righteousness has eternal profits (1 Timothy 4.8),
This reminds me of the whitewashed tombs the Pharisees were described as by Jesus. By exercising we might be looking good on the outside however if our spirit is not in line with His, what eternal profits are there? None.
Therefore worship God in His creation, get exercise, but most important worship Him by getting spiritual exercise.
In using this definition it can be seen that the people around us worship many different gods (boyfriends, girlfriends, bands, singers, athletes, cars, toys,…).
We can worship the true God in many ways as well. One of my favorite ways is to hike in the forest admiring Him for His handiwork.
I have had a few opportunities to do that this summer. This week I went by myself for a prayer and fasting hike. Jesus went up the mountain to pray, I followed His example.
I went to an area I had not been to before (just 30 miles from town) and found two guys on bikes exploring also, but they were from Germany. I am amazed that we live so close to beautiful areas that we rarely explore and other people travel 1/2 way around the world to admire our neighborhood.
Paul the Apostle tells us we can learn about God through His amazing creation (Rom 1.20).
In exploring creation we get bodily exercise which Paul says profits us, however discipline for the purpose of righteousness has eternal profits (1 Timothy 4.8),
This reminds me of the whitewashed tombs the Pharisees were described as by Jesus. By exercising we might be looking good on the outside however if our spirit is not in line with His, what eternal profits are there? None.
Therefore worship God in His creation, get exercise, but most important worship Him by getting spiritual exercise.
SC3 STUDENT E-MAIL NEWSLETTER 8.29.05
SC3 STUDENT E-MAIL NEWSLETTER 8.29.05
++ Tamolitch Pool Hike – September 17 – 9 AM–5 PM. Bring sack lunch, $2 for ice cream, and wear comfortable clothes. Please sign up with Cory. Everyone welcome. 4.6 miles round trip.
Contents
1. Something for Your Heart
2. Surf Report
3. Forgettable Fact
4. Potent Quotables
5. Parting Shot
===========our|sponsor===========
TOBYMAC-NEW REMIX RECORD DROPS AUGUST 30TH!
Check out the new TOBYMAC record "Renovating Diverse City." It's the new album with remixes of songs from "Welcome to Diverse City." It also features new songs and the radio hit "Burn For You!" The remix drops everywhere August 30th, but check out the ecard now to find out how to pre-buy the album. Plus, the ecard hooks you up with all the new sounds from "Renovating Diverse City!"
http://ecards.forefrontrecords.com/tobymac/remixdc/
=================================
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
Well, summer is winding down and it's back-to-school time again. As you reflect back over the past three months, do you feel that you got the most out of that time? Before you answer, keep in mind it's not so much what you did during your summer as what you learned from it.
In his book, "The Kingdom of God Is a Party," author Tony Campolo tells of how one college president liked to spend his summers. John Coleman, former president of Haverford College (a rather fancy-schmancy school in Pennsylvania) would spend his summers as a garbage collector. He would go to a nearby community where people didn't know who he was and pick up trash with the regular crew.
But in addition to being just one of the guys, he would also try to add an element of fun to the job. He would tell his fellow workers stories they had never heard. He would encourage them to sing on the job. And whenever someone tried to get rude or demeaning to one of the crew for being "just" a garbage collector, he could use his top-level education to put such people in their place.
"But wait," you say, "I could never be a garbage collector. I have to think about college resumes, the future, and such." Point taken. But that's why you need to remember that what you learn from something is what's most important.
Suppose you did take a job collecting garbage for a summer and someday your college admission official asked you what you learned from the experience. Some people might say, "I learned to pour nasty, repugnant garbage from cans into the back of a truck without getting maggots in my hair." (Not a great answer.) You, on the other hand, might say, "I learned the satisfaction of doing an honest day's work for an honest day's pay." (Better.) Or, "I learned that the world is filled with trash, and I want do to whatever I can during my lifetime to make it a better place." (Excellent response!)
Of course, it will be nine months now before you can consider another summer job. Productive or not, this summer is behind you. Yet here comes fall and winter--and the possibilities they bring.
For example, maybe you can devote an occasional Saturday to serving others for the sheer satisfaction of doing something positive with your life. During a lunchtime at school you might sit with a loner or strike up a conversation with someone who isn't very popular. Such "jobs" will never be listed on your resume, but you will be developing skills that will help you throughout your life. And if you also help make the world a better place as you do, so much the better.
On your own ...
In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, he introduced a whole new way of relating to other people--especially unpleasant people. Read Matthew 5:38-42.
http://biblegateway.com/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NLT&passage=Matthew+5%3A38-42
As you plan to return to school (or otherwise move ahead with your life) this fall, what situations do you anticipate where these verses will be relevant?
2. SURF REPORT
~ DCLA 2006
Attend DCLA in 2006, experience intimate worship, relevant training, and interact with thousands of other students.
http://www.dcla2006.com
~ About Billy the Kid
Ever heard of Billy the Kid, the notorious outlaw of the Old West? Want to find out more about him? Check out this interesting site.
http://www.aboutbillythekid.com
3. FORGETTABLE FACT
The average person almost immediately forgets 56% of all new information he or she learns.
4. POTENT QUOTABLES
When one door closes another opens. But we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we fail to see the one that has opened for us.
- Alexander Graham Bell
They serve God well who serve his creatures.
- Caroline Norton
Those who make the worst use of their time most complain of its shortness.
- Jean de la Bruyére
5. PARTING SHOT
Why is it called "after dark" when it's really "after light"?
copyright 2005 :: Youth Specialties
300 S. Pierce St.
El Cajon, CA 92020
888.346.4179
++ Tamolitch Pool Hike – September 17 – 9 AM–5 PM. Bring sack lunch, $2 for ice cream, and wear comfortable clothes. Please sign up with Cory. Everyone welcome. 4.6 miles round trip.
Contents
1. Something for Your Heart
2. Surf Report
3. Forgettable Fact
4. Potent Quotables
5. Parting Shot
===========our|sponsor===========
TOBYMAC-NEW REMIX RECORD DROPS AUGUST 30TH!
Check out the new TOBYMAC record "Renovating Diverse City." It's the new album with remixes of songs from "Welcome to Diverse City." It also features new songs and the radio hit "Burn For You!" The remix drops everywhere August 30th, but check out the ecard now to find out how to pre-buy the album. Plus, the ecard hooks you up with all the new sounds from "Renovating Diverse City!"
http://ecards.forefrontrecords.com/tobymac/remixdc/
=================================
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
Well, summer is winding down and it's back-to-school time again. As you reflect back over the past three months, do you feel that you got the most out of that time? Before you answer, keep in mind it's not so much what you did during your summer as what you learned from it.
In his book, "The Kingdom of God Is a Party," author Tony Campolo tells of how one college president liked to spend his summers. John Coleman, former president of Haverford College (a rather fancy-schmancy school in Pennsylvania) would spend his summers as a garbage collector. He would go to a nearby community where people didn't know who he was and pick up trash with the regular crew.
But in addition to being just one of the guys, he would also try to add an element of fun to the job. He would tell his fellow workers stories they had never heard. He would encourage them to sing on the job. And whenever someone tried to get rude or demeaning to one of the crew for being "just" a garbage collector, he could use his top-level education to put such people in their place.
"But wait," you say, "I could never be a garbage collector. I have to think about college resumes, the future, and such." Point taken. But that's why you need to remember that what you learn from something is what's most important.
Suppose you did take a job collecting garbage for a summer and someday your college admission official asked you what you learned from the experience. Some people might say, "I learned to pour nasty, repugnant garbage from cans into the back of a truck without getting maggots in my hair." (Not a great answer.) You, on the other hand, might say, "I learned the satisfaction of doing an honest day's work for an honest day's pay." (Better.) Or, "I learned that the world is filled with trash, and I want do to whatever I can during my lifetime to make it a better place." (Excellent response!)
Of course, it will be nine months now before you can consider another summer job. Productive or not, this summer is behind you. Yet here comes fall and winter--and the possibilities they bring.
For example, maybe you can devote an occasional Saturday to serving others for the sheer satisfaction of doing something positive with your life. During a lunchtime at school you might sit with a loner or strike up a conversation with someone who isn't very popular. Such "jobs" will never be listed on your resume, but you will be developing skills that will help you throughout your life. And if you also help make the world a better place as you do, so much the better.
On your own ...
In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, he introduced a whole new way of relating to other people--especially unpleasant people. Read Matthew 5:38-42.
http://biblegateway.com/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NLT&passage=Matthew+5%3A38-42
As you plan to return to school (or otherwise move ahead with your life) this fall, what situations do you anticipate where these verses will be relevant?
2. SURF REPORT
~ DCLA 2006
Attend DCLA in 2006, experience intimate worship, relevant training, and interact with thousands of other students.
http://www.dcla2006.com
~ About Billy the Kid
Ever heard of Billy the Kid, the notorious outlaw of the Old West? Want to find out more about him? Check out this interesting site.
http://www.aboutbillythekid.com
3. FORGETTABLE FACT
The average person almost immediately forgets 56% of all new information he or she learns.
4. POTENT QUOTABLES
When one door closes another opens. But we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we fail to see the one that has opened for us.
- Alexander Graham Bell
They serve God well who serve his creatures.
- Caroline Norton
Those who make the worst use of their time most complain of its shortness.
- Jean de la Bruyére
5. PARTING SHOT
Why is it called "after dark" when it's really "after light"?
copyright 2005 :: Youth Specialties
300 S. Pierce St.
El Cajon, CA 92020
888.346.4179
Aug 23, 2005
Carpenter Mountain Hike
Yesterday a group of 8 of us headed up the Mackenzie for a hike. We decided that climbing up Wolf Rock was to dangerous for the group assembled; therefore we went searching for Carpenter Mountain Lookout.
The ranger station had told us that the trail is marked, but did not say off of which road. The map book we had did not show all the roads so we ended up circumnavigating the mountain without finding the trail. About 2 hours of driving on gravel roads, some quite rough (4X4 off-roading almost), we came to a closed gate on a road that we thought would take us up there we decided to go down to the “Experimental Forrest Office” near Blue River Lake to ask. Once we got near the office we found a road side map/sign that showed us the right roads to take.
Then we were able to go straight to the trail for the one mile hike to the top. It is a cool place. The lookout house sits on the very top of this mountain. The top is a rock about 20X20 and the house is about 15X15 with a railed porch all the way around. So the building sits right on top with cliffs falling away on three sides. Great view. There is a college student that lives up there watching for fires with a 360 view during the fire season.
At the bottom we talked about how Jesus said, “my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” What does he mean? Look it up: Matt 11.28-30; John 14.27; Phil 4.7
The ranger station had told us that the trail is marked, but did not say off of which road. The map book we had did not show all the roads so we ended up circumnavigating the mountain without finding the trail. About 2 hours of driving on gravel roads, some quite rough (4X4 off-roading almost), we came to a closed gate on a road that we thought would take us up there we decided to go down to the “Experimental Forrest Office” near Blue River Lake to ask. Once we got near the office we found a road side map/sign that showed us the right roads to take.
Then we were able to go straight to the trail for the one mile hike to the top. It is a cool place. The lookout house sits on the very top of this mountain. The top is a rock about 20X20 and the house is about 15X15 with a railed porch all the way around. So the building sits right on top with cliffs falling away on three sides. Great view. There is a college student that lives up there watching for fires with a 360 view during the fire season.
At the bottom we talked about how Jesus said, “my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” What does he mean? Look it up: Matt 11.28-30; John 14.27; Phil 4.7
Aug 20, 2005
Monday Hike
You may have noticed in the SC3 Youth Newsletter there is a hike scheduled for this coming Monday (22nd).
The plan is to meet at the church building at 9:00 AM with lunches and comfortable clothing and drive to Wolf Rock, which is up on the McKenzie Pass. We will not return until about 5:30 PM.
Please sign up with me Sunday.
David Macauley and me are leading this hike.
The plan is to meet at the church building at 9:00 AM with lunches and comfortable clothing and drive to Wolf Rock, which is up on the McKenzie Pass. We will not return until about 5:30 PM.
Please sign up with me Sunday.
David Macauley and me are leading this hike.
Aug 16, 2005
Aug 13, 2005
Baby boy born today!
We went to the hospital at 8:30 this morning and had another boy at 11:30.
Both Lori and Cade are doing great. He is a good-looking little guy.
For you girls… he weighed 7 lbs 2 oz and was 19 ½ inches long. He currently has dark hair, but that can change in the next few weeks.
We will be bringing him home by mid-day on Sunday.
Both Lori and Cade are doing great. He is a good-looking little guy.
For you girls… he weighed 7 lbs 2 oz and was 19 ½ inches long. He currently has dark hair, but that can change in the next few weeks.
We will be bringing him home by mid-day on Sunday.
SC3 this Sunday
Sunday night Youth Church is going to be a BBQ honoring our leaving Youth Workers. DJ Holloway, Katie Holloway, Kelly McFarland, Jon Wells, Brenna Hayes, Seth McFarland are all moving within the next few weeks.
Starting at our regular time (6:30 PM) we will be meeting at the *church building.
BBQ, volleyball, worship, prayer, sharing of stories, … and a special prayer for these who are going out to serve Him.
*Originally we had hoped to meet at our house for this event, however due to our baby’s tardy arrival we are moving it back to the church building.
Starting at our regular time (6:30 PM) we will be meeting at the *church building.
BBQ, volleyball, worship, prayer, sharing of stories, … and a special prayer for these who are going out to serve Him.
*Originally we had hoped to meet at our house for this event, however due to our baby’s tardy arrival we are moving it back to the church building.
Aug 8, 2005
SC3 STUDENT E-MAIL NEWSLETTER 8.8.05 ++
SC3 STUDENT E-MAIL NEWSLETTER 8.8.05 ++
+ New blogs and pictures up @ www.sc3youth.blogspot.com/ and www.myspace.com/cdgant
+ Testimony Tuesday & Mar Far Golf this week! Call for a ride to Mar Far Golf.
Contents
1. Something for Your Heart
2. Surf Report
3. Forgettable Fact
4. Potent Quotables
5. Parting Shot
===========our|sponsor===========
NEW AUDIO ADRENALINE CD - PRE-BUY NOW!
Pre-buy the new Audio Adrenaline album "Until My Heart Caves In" today at MusiChristian.com and reserve your exclusive autographed copy! Available August 30th, "Until My Heart Caves In" includes the new hit song "King." But don't wait until then--buy your autographed copy now for only $11.97! Visit www.audioa.com to keep up with the band, see the album ecard, and learn more about the Audio A street team!
http://www.musichristian.com/sys/product.php?PRODUCT=167696&affcode=audioa.com
=================================
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
August 13 is National Left-Handers Day. It's a day to remember those in our population who stand out in their preference of which hand to use when writing, throwing, and doing other physical stuff. If you're among that approximately 10 percent of left-handers, it's a day to recognize the struggles you and your fellow lefties face by being in the minority. If you're a majority right-hander, it's a day to think about some of the challenges you'll never have to endure (such as ugly marks on your arm made by spiral notebooks during a long writing assignment).
This may seem like just another silly celebration, but the fact is, we ought to do more to recognize and celebrate the things that make us different and unique. Most of us usually try much too hard to be like everyone else. For example, a girl might have incredibly gorgeous red hair. But if she's teased about it once or twice, she's eager to dye it a "regular" color. A guy who is a little taller than all his friends should feel kind of special, yet is often made to feel self-conscious about it (with comments like "How's the weather up there?").
Just think how totally boring this world would be if everyone looked exactly alike. Yet rather than celebrate our uniqueness, every year we buy billions of dollars' worth of diet products, cosmetics, and clothing in an attempt to look just like everyone else.
And physical differences aren't the worst of it. Some of us even put down people whose talents and gifts differ from our own. If someone has better math skills, we label him a geek. If someone's coordination is not what ours is, we label her a klutz. We're big on labels. Many of us have a wide assortment of demeaning labels to describe anyone not exactly like us.
Jesus always seemed to go out of his way to relate to people who were different and tended to be overlooked by "regular" people: women, little children, lepers, Samaritans, short people like Zacchaeus, and people with all kinds of physical problems. In many cases, his willingness to befriend such people had life-changing results for them.
In some parts of the country, teenagers are catching on to what Jesus taught and are finding worth in themselves, regardless of the labels that others try to impose. They may prefer playing in the orchestra to attending rock concerts, or choose scouting over cheerleading, or like science fiction more than graphic novels ... but they're beginning to take pride in what they do and who they are. They refuse to be ashamed to be "Band Geeks" or "Orch[estra] Dorks" or "Mathletes." Just the opposite: many are making or buying shirts to proudly proclaim the fact.
So just as left-handers have learned to celebrate their uniqueness, so should you--whatever your uniqueness happens to be. God created you to be special, and is very pleased when you excel in your distinctive area(s) of life. You should be, too.
On your own ...
Read 1 Corinthians 12:14-26.
http://biblegateway.com/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NLT&passage=1Corinthians+12%3A14-26
Paul compares the different gifts and abilities of people to various parts of the human body. He points out that it takes all of them working together to function properly. Think about the different people you know. How might you benefit from getting to know each of those people better? How might they benefit from getting to know you better?
2. SURF REPORT
~ The Grandparent Connection
Cool, teen-written newspaper designed to keep grandkids and grandparents connected
http://www.meridianskydesign.com/grandparentconnection.html
~ eHow
Need to know how to change a tire? Get rid of shoe odor? Take the skin off chicken? Check out the site that offers "the fastest and easiest way to find out how to do just about anything."
http://www.ehow.com
3. FORGETTABLE FACT
27,000 pieces of luggage are lost or misdirected by U.S. airlines every day.
4. POTENT QUOTABLES
The world is made up of people who never quite get into the first team, and who just miss the prizes at the flower show.
- Jacob Bronowski
There is no such thing [as great people]! The greatest man or woman is 99 percent just like yourself.
- George Bernard Shaw
It is not only the most difficult thing to know oneself, but the most inconvenient one, too. - H.W. Shaw
5. PARTING SHOT
Imagine how much better summer would be if Noah had swatted those two mosquitoes after he got off the ark.
copyright 2005 :: Youth Specialties
+ New blogs and pictures up @ www.sc3youth.blogspot.com/ and www.myspace.com/cdgant
+ Testimony Tuesday & Mar Far Golf this week! Call for a ride to Mar Far Golf.
Contents
1. Something for Your Heart
2. Surf Report
3. Forgettable Fact
4. Potent Quotables
5. Parting Shot
===========our|sponsor===========
NEW AUDIO ADRENALINE CD - PRE-BUY NOW!
Pre-buy the new Audio Adrenaline album "Until My Heart Caves In" today at MusiChristian.com and reserve your exclusive autographed copy! Available August 30th, "Until My Heart Caves In" includes the new hit song "King." But don't wait until then--buy your autographed copy now for only $11.97! Visit www.audioa.com to keep up with the band, see the album ecard, and learn more about the Audio A street team!
http://www.musichristian.com/sys/product.php?PRODUCT=167696&affcode=audioa.com
=================================
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
August 13 is National Left-Handers Day. It's a day to remember those in our population who stand out in their preference of which hand to use when writing, throwing, and doing other physical stuff. If you're among that approximately 10 percent of left-handers, it's a day to recognize the struggles you and your fellow lefties face by being in the minority. If you're a majority right-hander, it's a day to think about some of the challenges you'll never have to endure (such as ugly marks on your arm made by spiral notebooks during a long writing assignment).
This may seem like just another silly celebration, but the fact is, we ought to do more to recognize and celebrate the things that make us different and unique. Most of us usually try much too hard to be like everyone else. For example, a girl might have incredibly gorgeous red hair. But if she's teased about it once or twice, she's eager to dye it a "regular" color. A guy who is a little taller than all his friends should feel kind of special, yet is often made to feel self-conscious about it (with comments like "How's the weather up there?").
Just think how totally boring this world would be if everyone looked exactly alike. Yet rather than celebrate our uniqueness, every year we buy billions of dollars' worth of diet products, cosmetics, and clothing in an attempt to look just like everyone else.
And physical differences aren't the worst of it. Some of us even put down people whose talents and gifts differ from our own. If someone has better math skills, we label him a geek. If someone's coordination is not what ours is, we label her a klutz. We're big on labels. Many of us have a wide assortment of demeaning labels to describe anyone not exactly like us.
Jesus always seemed to go out of his way to relate to people who were different and tended to be overlooked by "regular" people: women, little children, lepers, Samaritans, short people like Zacchaeus, and people with all kinds of physical problems. In many cases, his willingness to befriend such people had life-changing results for them.
In some parts of the country, teenagers are catching on to what Jesus taught and are finding worth in themselves, regardless of the labels that others try to impose. They may prefer playing in the orchestra to attending rock concerts, or choose scouting over cheerleading, or like science fiction more than graphic novels ... but they're beginning to take pride in what they do and who they are. They refuse to be ashamed to be "Band Geeks" or "Orch[estra] Dorks" or "Mathletes." Just the opposite: many are making or buying shirts to proudly proclaim the fact.
So just as left-handers have learned to celebrate their uniqueness, so should you--whatever your uniqueness happens to be. God created you to be special, and is very pleased when you excel in your distinctive area(s) of life. You should be, too.
On your own ...
Read 1 Corinthians 12:14-26.
http://biblegateway.com/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NLT&passage=1Corinthians+12%3A14-26
Paul compares the different gifts and abilities of people to various parts of the human body. He points out that it takes all of them working together to function properly. Think about the different people you know. How might you benefit from getting to know each of those people better? How might they benefit from getting to know you better?
2. SURF REPORT
~ The Grandparent Connection
Cool, teen-written newspaper designed to keep grandkids and grandparents connected
http://www.meridianskydesign.com/grandparentconnection.html
~ eHow
Need to know how to change a tire? Get rid of shoe odor? Take the skin off chicken? Check out the site that offers "the fastest and easiest way to find out how to do just about anything."
http://www.ehow.com
3. FORGETTABLE FACT
27,000 pieces of luggage are lost or misdirected by U.S. airlines every day.
4. POTENT QUOTABLES
The world is made up of people who never quite get into the first team, and who just miss the prizes at the flower show.
- Jacob Bronowski
There is no such thing [as great people]! The greatest man or woman is 99 percent just like yourself.
- George Bernard Shaw
It is not only the most difficult thing to know oneself, but the most inconvenient one, too. - H.W. Shaw
5. PARTING SHOT
Imagine how much better summer would be if Noah had swatted those two mosquitoes after he got off the ark.
copyright 2005 :: Youth Specialties
Who What Where ???
Sunday night we talked about giving our testimonies. Life testimonies of 1. Who you were before Chirst. 2. How you met Christ. 3. What your life is like with Christ. Also, testimonies of what God is doing in our lives.
In the Scriptures testimonies abound, the Gospels are all testimonies to Jesus’ life. Luke gave his testimony of how the church grew through the missionary Apostles. Peter gave his testimony over and over. Paul gave his testimony to how Christ saved him on the road to Damascus.
There are many reasons to be sharing our testimonies… evangelism, encouragement, example, exalting God, and also simply practicing seeing God in our everyday life. Practicing the Presence of God!
------------------- -------------------- ----------------------
As a final challenge I gave the following questions…
1. Who are you?
2. What are you doing?
3. Where are you going?
Think about these questions, pray about them, ask God for wisdom in answering them.
In the Scriptures testimonies abound, the Gospels are all testimonies to Jesus’ life. Luke gave his testimony of how the church grew through the missionary Apostles. Peter gave his testimony over and over. Paul gave his testimony to how Christ saved him on the road to Damascus.
There are many reasons to be sharing our testimonies… evangelism, encouragement, example, exalting God, and also simply practicing seeing God in our everyday life. Practicing the Presence of God!
------------------- -------------------- ----------------------
As a final challenge I gave the following questions…
1. Who are you?
2. What are you doing?
3. Where are you going?
Think about these questions, pray about them, ask God for wisdom in answering them.
Aug 4, 2005
Schools teach something different than Evolution???
Recently President Bush was asked by a reporter if he felt intelligent design should be taught in public schools. President Bush replied: "Part of education is to expose people to different schools of thought. You’re asking me whether or not people ought to be exposed to different ideas, and the answer is yes."
The media immediately blasted the President for his comments. They made the front page of the liberal Washington Post.
Should students be exposed to different ideas, or should they be shielded from information about intelligent design? Give us your opinion.
Go Here:
http://www.afa.net/petitions/intelligentdesign/takesurvey.asp
The media immediately blasted the President for his comments. They made the front page of the liberal Washington Post.
Should students be exposed to different ideas, or should they be shielded from information about intelligent design? Give us your opinion.
Go Here:
http://www.afa.net/petitions/intelligentdesign/takesurvey.asp
Aug 3, 2005
SYATP 2005
I received new information about See You At The Pole (SYATP) for this year. Previously I had thought that it always happens on the Wednesday of the second full week of September. However, it must be the third Wednesday of September, because it’s on the 21st this year. Therefore our SC3 Youth calendar is incorrect, not that that has ever happened before.
SYATP is a student lead prayer and praise time at your local school. Wednesday morning, September 21st, students will be meeting at the flag pole at your school to pray to and praise God. Typically, this occurs at around 7:00AM, but some schools now have later starts, so start times vary.
So, if you don’t hear people talking about the meeting time the first couple of weeks of school then, get people talking about it, set a time and make it happen. I have a catalogue of t-shirts, flyers, bracelets, and other stuff to help promote your school’s SYATP.
SYATP is a student lead prayer and praise time at your local school. Wednesday morning, September 21st, students will be meeting at the flag pole at your school to pray to and praise God. Typically, this occurs at around 7:00AM, but some schools now have later starts, so start times vary.
So, if you don’t hear people talking about the meeting time the first couple of weeks of school then, get people talking about it, set a time and make it happen. I have a catalogue of t-shirts, flyers, bracelets, and other stuff to help promote your school’s SYATP.
Aug 2, 2005
Poetry and Art work wanted!
We are looking for writers and artists to post their stuff on our church website.
If you are interested please submit your stuff to me.
If you are interested please submit your stuff to me.
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