Time for another mind dump. Lots of stuff to highlight today.
Susan Boyle, the 47 year old lady from Scotland on Britain's Got Talent makes me cry everytime I see the video clip. Here it is, by the way. If you haven't seen it, stop what you are doing and watch it. Be honest: Whenever you first saw her, you thought it was a joke, didn't you? She has the voice of an angel. When I see people who were laughing at her a moment before, stand up and cheer, it is overwhelming. We have all become cynical with these talent shows and assume that the person who looks unattractive has no real talent. We all got fooled and our superficial hearts were exposed. At least mine was. This story is full of gospel allusions and that is why I think people resonate with it so much. God looks on the heart, not physical appearances. What matters is what is inside, not the outside. Amazing things come from common places. I think that it is interesting that Susan Boyle shocked us all on Easter weekend when we celebrate the Savior of the world dying on the cross between two thieves and raising from the dead to change everything. What an amazing story.
We got a golden retirever puppy this week named Sasha. I think that people think we are crazy, but life is for the living and, why slow down? Erika and I realize that we are still in shell shock from Caelan's cancer, though. Last night, Sasha was very listless and throwing up over and over. We got scared and took her into the animal hospital. We had to call a vet to come in and see her. We found out that wasn't cheap, by the way. As it turned out, she just had an upset stomach and was probably homesick. Erika said that we went through all of that to find out that Sasha had "Sleepy Puppy Syndrome." Reflecting on it, we overreact now when anyone is feeling bad, even the new puppy. But, she is fine and we're glad we have her. The cool thing is that our nurse last night was a lady that we used to know who has 6 kids. She would like to come to church, but they don't have a ride. We invited her and she said that she wanted to come. So, this Sunday, I hope to bring her to church with us. God moves in mysterious ways!
Sasha has been keeping us up at night, though. I also picked this week to start the writing phase of my book project. Poor timing. I had a very late night last night, but I got the first draft of the preface finished. Yeah! So, this morning, sleepy as can be, I broke down and went to Starbucks. Their White Chocolate Mochas are my new favorite drink there. Yum.
Last night I went to a local art gallery to see a show. Craig Greene, a local artist and member of our church had his work on display. He is really good. His paintings are abstract, but they have form and the eye can follow his lines. I also like the use of vivid colors and faces. A bunch of people from our church came by. I was thinking about it last night and we have quite a few very talented artists in our church. I am hoping that we can begin to display some of their work and that we can allow them to use their talents for God's glory.
Danny Akin, the president of Southeastern Theological Baptist Seminary articulated the thrust of what is being called the Great Commission Resurgence in chapel yesterday. I read the text of his sermon and had to email him some encouragement. I agree with him on every point. For the first time since I've been paying attention, there is some leadership emerging within the SBC that is worth following. I every church would do what he is calling for, I believe that we would see major progress within the SBC and that God would be very pleased. I'm praying for him and those that he is working with.
Kieran, my 5 year old son, had his first school play today.
Someone broke out the back window of an old van of ours that was parked on the street yesterday. That stinks. Anyone want an old van that doesn't run? You can have it if you come get it.
We're taking the kids to ride horses tomorrow with another family that we are friends with. It should be a beautiful weekend here. I'll be sure to bring the camera. The pictures of that will be amazing.
I asked the leadership of our church to commit an hour a week to pray for the ministry of our church in every phase. I sent an email to around 60 people and they have been responding back all week that they would do it. Already, we are seeing amazing things happen and I am sensing God's presence more and more. After the leadership lays the foundation for this for a few weeks, I might take it to the whole church. But, I wanted to start with those actively involved in ministry leadership.
Well, lots to do. You can keep up with me on Twitter if you like. I'm starting to get the hang of it and it is easy to text from my phone. Look around and ask God to show you where He is working today. He is always working, redeeming, and restoring!
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