Set the stage and picture the scene.
The clouds that had been looming over the small boat had been growing over the past few hours. This one looked like it was going to be big. It started with a light drizzle. Then the sky let loose.
Along with the rain, came strong winds that swept into the enclosed lake and caused the waves to toss the boat back and forth across the water.
Those inside were horrified. They shivered as the rain saturated their clothes and they feared the boat would sink as they watched it slowly fill with the water that was being both tossed in from the lake and poured into from the sky.
The men inside were certain of their death.
As they panicked on the top, they realized that their leader was alseep below deck. His pillow nestled below his head. He was comfortable and resting after a days of teaching the seekers and healing the sick with more to come.
The men had seen him cast out demons. They had seen him bring life to legs that were once dead. They had seen him fill empty nets with thousands of fish. And yet they were still fearful. If only they believed.
They rushed below to ask him why he didn't care. "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" As if they were already in the process of dying.
What was Jesus thinking as he got up? I know what I would've been thinking. "Seriously? You woke me up because of this stupid storm? Have you no faith, yet?"
Then he did it. "Peace! Be still!" No dying down. No time in between. The wind and waves stopped. They obeyed without question.
The disciples were dumbfounded. As they looked at the sun appear and the waves stop, Jesus asked them, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?" After all he had done in their short time with him, how could they not believe yet? He wasn't done. It would only become more powerful from here.
Then there was the question. Those who walked with Jesus day in and day out. Those who witnessed firsthand hundreds of miralces couldn't believe what they saw.
"Who is this that even the winds and waves obey Him?"
What a powerful question. They didn't realize who Jesus was yet. Despite what they had seen and heard. They didn't know. Jesus had just displayed his power and they didn't know where it came from.
The Creator commanded His creation.
I love that story. I love that story because Jesus showed such awesome power that it left those who knew Him best awestruck and dumbfounded. Confused and amazed. Scratching their heads and falling to their knees.
"Who is this that even the winds and waves obey Him?" Translated: "What have we gotten ourselves into? This guy is amazing. Did you see what He just did? Where did He come from?"
They knew Him. They had witnessed amazing things, but yet, they still lacked faith.
There is a vast canyon between knowing someone and believing in someone.
This is The Guy who commands the winds and waves. He is worthy of our praise and demands our awe and wonder. Live in awe. Choose to do that now, because, eventually, you won't have a choice about it.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
It's a Family Affair...
I seem to take occasional hiatuses from blogging, but tonight, the girls are in bed and it's still early. And by girls, I mean all 3. And by early, I mean 9:15. I on the couch watching Apocolypto by Mel Gibson and thinking about a passage of Scripture that I read last night.
Mark 3:31-35
Brief summary: Jesus is chillin' and his mom and brothers come and ask for him. When he's told that they are waiting for him, he says, "Who are my mother and brothers? Here are my mother and brothers! Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."
I've always had a tough time with this passage. I do understand that Jesus is emphasizing the importance of our brothers and sisters in Him. No arguments there. However, it seems like He's tossing aside his mom and brothers. That I don't get.
Hannah suggested that we don't know what had gone on in their personal lives. Had any of them not believed in Him? Had any of them turned their backs on God? We'd like to think, "no," but we can't deny that it's a possibility, right? It was in His hometown that Jesus said a prophet is without honor because no one believed.
Is Jesus implying that our earthly family holds little importance when compared to our Christian family?
I don't have the answer for what Jesus intended about His biological family. I wish I did. Here's where it'll get fun, though. Do you have the answer?
Now...back to the last few minutes of Apocolypto.
Mark 3:31-35
Brief summary: Jesus is chillin' and his mom and brothers come and ask for him. When he's told that they are waiting for him, he says, "Who are my mother and brothers? Here are my mother and brothers! Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."
I've always had a tough time with this passage. I do understand that Jesus is emphasizing the importance of our brothers and sisters in Him. No arguments there. However, it seems like He's tossing aside his mom and brothers. That I don't get.
Hannah suggested that we don't know what had gone on in their personal lives. Had any of them not believed in Him? Had any of them turned their backs on God? We'd like to think, "no," but we can't deny that it's a possibility, right? It was in His hometown that Jesus said a prophet is without honor because no one believed.
Is Jesus implying that our earthly family holds little importance when compared to our Christian family?
I don't have the answer for what Jesus intended about His biological family. I wish I did. Here's where it'll get fun, though. Do you have the answer?
Now...back to the last few minutes of Apocolypto.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Cowboys' Draft Analysis and Other Nuggets From the Draft Weekend
The 2010 NFL Draft has come to a close, so I figured that I'd take a moment and let my thoughts be known about the Cowboys' draft and a few other things that I found intriguing.
Cowboys' Draft:
NOTE: of my 9 coveted prospects in my previous post, the Cowboys ended up with 2 of those guys. Dez and Akwasi. Pretty good turnout...for me, anyways.
Rd. 1, 24 overall- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- Great value for the spot. As the number one rated receiver in the draft, the Cowboys were lucky to get him here. Some love this pick, some think it's risky. I think more is being made of his "problems" than really should be. The kid's never been in trouble with the law. He got scared and lied. I'm not condoning that. Had he told the truth, he would've avoided alot of that, but he's never been arrested and the kid can flat out play. I'm pretty excited about this pick. Rick Gosselin of DMN thinks Dez will be next season's Offensive Rookie of the Year. Roy, you've just been put on serious notice.
Rd. 2, 55 overall- Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State- Solid linebacker out of Joe Paterno's linebacker factory. After talking to Jeff Phillips about this pick, I'm even more excited. As a Penn State guy, Jeff wanted Sean for the Iggles. Apparently, he's got a motor that won't quit and will step up and be a leader on defense. I think he'll have an immediate special teams impact and maybe get some time in a few packages, but he'll have a year or two under Brooking before he really has a huge impact. Something to consider: 9 out of the past 10 years, the Defensive Rookies of the Year have been linebackers. Julius Peppers was the only exception. Just something to think about.
Rd. 4, 126 overall- Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, CB/PR, Indiana University at Penn.- Probably the guy that I'm most excited about. I know he played in a small school and will have to transition to the competition level at the NFL, but he has serious potential. The Cowboys want to move him to safety. He definitely has the size, speed and smarts to make the transition. Him and Dez could also provided a much need boost to the return game. I'm pretty excited to see what this kid can do.
Rd. 6, 179 overall- Sam Young, OT, Notre Dame- Don't know a whole lot about Sam, but he played at Notre Dame and protected Jimmy Clausen. While ND wasn't great this year, their offense was and that always starts on the offensive line. From what I know, he's pretty athletic and quick, but is only a right tackle prospect. I'm not sure if he's a project or not, but he will provide some depth at right tackle now that Free is going to be at left.
Rd. 6, 196 overall- Jamar Wall, CB, Texas Tech- Wall has some issues with open field tackling and doesn't have great speed. He has great ball skills, though. He was named MVP of the Alamo Bowl due to his play and an interception that set up Tech's win. He'll be a project and we'll have to see what Campo can do with him.
Rd. 7, 234 overall- Sean Lissimore, DE, William and Mary- 7th round from William and Mary. Not saying this pick won't work, but that combination doesn't sound promising. While at William and Mary, he put up good numbers, got some great awards and was a team captain, so he definitely has potential.
Draft grades are pretty stupid right after the draft. Talk to me in 2-3 years and we can assess these guys. At this time though, I think it was pretty solid. The Cowboys decision makers (and by that I mean Jerry Jones) didn't feel we had any great pressing needs. Their strategy seemed to be best available. I like what we came out with.
Thoughts on the rest:
Jacksonville Jaguars- I hadn't even heard the name Tyson Alualu until his name was called in the 10th overall pick. I think he had gone up some draft boards, but was by no means thought to be even a first rounder, much less a high first rounder. Maybe they'll prove everyone wrong, but I agree with most experts. A head scratcher and a stretch.
Denver- Either love it or hate it. I don't like it. I feel that Tebow in the first was a reach. I don't mind the pick up, I just feel it was paying alot (they traded back into the first to get Tebow after picking up D. Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech) to pick up a quarterback who, many feel, won't succeed on this level. I don't mind that they got him, just that they paid so much for him. It's an awfully big risk. I like Tim Tebow and I like the Broncos, so, I hope this works out. He's a good kid, there's no doubt; I'm just not sure he's a good NFL quarterback. Prove me wrong, Tim.
Kansas City- Eric Berry: love the pick. Now, two of my prospects were taken by the Chiefs in round two. Dexter McCluster and Javier Arenas. I'm unsure why they took both of these guys. Both, I thought would be for the return game. So, they stole two of the better return men in the draft and are hoarding them for themselves. McCluster is a running back, but they're listing him as a WR (they already have Jamal Charles who had a breakout year last year). Arenas is a cornerback. He was a solid cornerback at 'Bama and he may be good, but I projected him more as a return man...and KC stole both of them.
Seattle- Probably the best overall draft. Arguably, the best tackle in the draft fell into their lap, then, 7 picks later, Earl Thomas (Taylor Mays is still crying about that). Golden Tate in the 2nd. What a solid draft. On top of that, they got LenDale White in a trade. He's a solid back when he's healthy and at the right weight. If Charlie Whitehurst is the quarterback that they paid for or if Matt Hasselback returns to form, then they could quickly move up in the NFC West since Kurt Warner is no longer on his throne in Arizona.
Colt McCoy and Jimmy Clausen- Through the first 47 picks, only two quarterbacks had been taken. Two of the better ones left on the board. Head scratcher. No doubt that Carolina was pumped when Clausen was literally gift wrapped and placed in their laps. McCoy falls to 85. Really? I hope he makes some teams sorely disappointed. I do find it interesting that McCoy and Shipley (best friends since they were kids) end up in the same state, just a couple of hours away from each other.
Houton- Cornerback Kareem Jackson in the first...Kyle Wilson was the higher rated corner. Traded out of their spot in the 2nd so someone else could pick up Toby Gerhart and they were left with Ben Tate later. Head scratcher on both accounts there. I do understand that Houston fans are excited about Trendon Holliday, though.
That's plenty of thoughts for now. I could keep going, but I'm tired and this isn't my job...I should get back to that, though. Let the criticism begin:
Cowboys' Draft:
NOTE: of my 9 coveted prospects in my previous post, the Cowboys ended up with 2 of those guys. Dez and Akwasi. Pretty good turnout...for me, anyways.
Rd. 1, 24 overall- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- Great value for the spot. As the number one rated receiver in the draft, the Cowboys were lucky to get him here. Some love this pick, some think it's risky. I think more is being made of his "problems" than really should be. The kid's never been in trouble with the law. He got scared and lied. I'm not condoning that. Had he told the truth, he would've avoided alot of that, but he's never been arrested and the kid can flat out play. I'm pretty excited about this pick. Rick Gosselin of DMN thinks Dez will be next season's Offensive Rookie of the Year. Roy, you've just been put on serious notice.
Rd. 2, 55 overall- Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State- Solid linebacker out of Joe Paterno's linebacker factory. After talking to Jeff Phillips about this pick, I'm even more excited. As a Penn State guy, Jeff wanted Sean for the Iggles. Apparently, he's got a motor that won't quit and will step up and be a leader on defense. I think he'll have an immediate special teams impact and maybe get some time in a few packages, but he'll have a year or two under Brooking before he really has a huge impact. Something to consider: 9 out of the past 10 years, the Defensive Rookies of the Year have been linebackers. Julius Peppers was the only exception. Just something to think about.
Rd. 4, 126 overall- Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, CB/PR, Indiana University at Penn.- Probably the guy that I'm most excited about. I know he played in a small school and will have to transition to the competition level at the NFL, but he has serious potential. The Cowboys want to move him to safety. He definitely has the size, speed and smarts to make the transition. Him and Dez could also provided a much need boost to the return game. I'm pretty excited to see what this kid can do.
Rd. 6, 179 overall- Sam Young, OT, Notre Dame- Don't know a whole lot about Sam, but he played at Notre Dame and protected Jimmy Clausen. While ND wasn't great this year, their offense was and that always starts on the offensive line. From what I know, he's pretty athletic and quick, but is only a right tackle prospect. I'm not sure if he's a project or not, but he will provide some depth at right tackle now that Free is going to be at left.
Rd. 6, 196 overall- Jamar Wall, CB, Texas Tech- Wall has some issues with open field tackling and doesn't have great speed. He has great ball skills, though. He was named MVP of the Alamo Bowl due to his play and an interception that set up Tech's win. He'll be a project and we'll have to see what Campo can do with him.
Rd. 7, 234 overall- Sean Lissimore, DE, William and Mary- 7th round from William and Mary. Not saying this pick won't work, but that combination doesn't sound promising. While at William and Mary, he put up good numbers, got some great awards and was a team captain, so he definitely has potential.
Draft grades are pretty stupid right after the draft. Talk to me in 2-3 years and we can assess these guys. At this time though, I think it was pretty solid. The Cowboys decision makers (and by that I mean Jerry Jones) didn't feel we had any great pressing needs. Their strategy seemed to be best available. I like what we came out with.
Thoughts on the rest:
Jacksonville Jaguars- I hadn't even heard the name Tyson Alualu until his name was called in the 10th overall pick. I think he had gone up some draft boards, but was by no means thought to be even a first rounder, much less a high first rounder. Maybe they'll prove everyone wrong, but I agree with most experts. A head scratcher and a stretch.
Denver- Either love it or hate it. I don't like it. I feel that Tebow in the first was a reach. I don't mind the pick up, I just feel it was paying alot (they traded back into the first to get Tebow after picking up D. Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech) to pick up a quarterback who, many feel, won't succeed on this level. I don't mind that they got him, just that they paid so much for him. It's an awfully big risk. I like Tim Tebow and I like the Broncos, so, I hope this works out. He's a good kid, there's no doubt; I'm just not sure he's a good NFL quarterback. Prove me wrong, Tim.
Kansas City- Eric Berry: love the pick. Now, two of my prospects were taken by the Chiefs in round two. Dexter McCluster and Javier Arenas. I'm unsure why they took both of these guys. Both, I thought would be for the return game. So, they stole two of the better return men in the draft and are hoarding them for themselves. McCluster is a running back, but they're listing him as a WR (they already have Jamal Charles who had a breakout year last year). Arenas is a cornerback. He was a solid cornerback at 'Bama and he may be good, but I projected him more as a return man...and KC stole both of them.
Seattle- Probably the best overall draft. Arguably, the best tackle in the draft fell into their lap, then, 7 picks later, Earl Thomas (Taylor Mays is still crying about that). Golden Tate in the 2nd. What a solid draft. On top of that, they got LenDale White in a trade. He's a solid back when he's healthy and at the right weight. If Charlie Whitehurst is the quarterback that they paid for or if Matt Hasselback returns to form, then they could quickly move up in the NFC West since Kurt Warner is no longer on his throne in Arizona.
Colt McCoy and Jimmy Clausen- Through the first 47 picks, only two quarterbacks had been taken. Two of the better ones left on the board. Head scratcher. No doubt that Carolina was pumped when Clausen was literally gift wrapped and placed in their laps. McCoy falls to 85. Really? I hope he makes some teams sorely disappointed. I do find it interesting that McCoy and Shipley (best friends since they were kids) end up in the same state, just a couple of hours away from each other.
Houton- Cornerback Kareem Jackson in the first...Kyle Wilson was the higher rated corner. Traded out of their spot in the 2nd so someone else could pick up Toby Gerhart and they were left with Ben Tate later. Head scratcher on both accounts there. I do understand that Houston fans are excited about Trendon Holliday, though.
That's plenty of thoughts for now. I could keep going, but I'm tired and this isn't my job...I should get back to that, though. Let the criticism begin:
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Coveted Prospects
These are the guys that I covet the most (excluding OL because they're just harder to see in a video) in next weekend's 2010 NFL Draft. Now, I know that most of them won't make it to 27 and at least one of them will be a 2nd or 3rd rounder. Nevertheless, in my opinion, these guys will be players and I would love to see Dallas land one of these guys:
NOTE to reader/watcher: TURN OFF SOUND!
I should also note that I like Nate Allen, but he doesn't have a good YouTube video of highlights...that's the only reason he's not included here.
Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
Wont' happen, but this guy is the dream pick.
Joe Haden, CB, Florida
Akwasi Owusu Ansah, CB/PR, IUP
Javier Arenas, CB/PR, Alabama
For a struggling return game in a later round.
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
If he falls, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Cowboys pick him up...what, you think Roy will be here after next year?
Morgan Burnett, FS, Georgia Tech
Chad Jones, FS, Louisiana State
Dexter McCluster, RB/PR, Ole Miss
Again...for the return game.
Most not all. No particular order..except maybe for Earl Thomas.
NOTE to reader/watcher: TURN OFF SOUND!
I should also note that I like Nate Allen, but he doesn't have a good YouTube video of highlights...that's the only reason he's not included here.
Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
Wont' happen, but this guy is the dream pick.
Joe Haden, CB, Florida
Akwasi Owusu Ansah, CB/PR, IUP
Javier Arenas, CB/PR, Alabama
For a struggling return game in a later round.
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
If he falls, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Cowboys pick him up...what, you think Roy will be here after next year?
Morgan Burnett, FS, Georgia Tech
Chad Jones, FS, Louisiana State
Dexter McCluster, RB/PR, Ole Miss
Again...for the return game.
Most not all. No particular order..except maybe for Earl Thomas.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Nachos for Jesus?
I heard a story on the news the other day about a church in my hometown (Frisco) that was doing something outrageous. At the beginning of the broadcast when the lady imparting the news began, she said, "The youth group at Northstar Church in Frisco, TX..." I got a little prideful. I puffed up a little. That's my hometown. They're on the news for doing something newsworthy...something for Jesus.
Unfortunately, my pride only lasted a brief second.
They are in the news because they are trying to break a Guinness World Record. For what, you might ask? For the largest plate of nachos. They loaded a trough full of chips, caked it in cheese, threw on some peppers and added a ton of salsa. The final measurement? 3,555.25 lbs. (The old record was 3,158 lbs.)
An article in the Dallas Morning News quotes the assistant pastor as saying, "We want to show you that you don't have to be stiff and starchy to love God."
Really? So, while millions of people around the world are starving to death, a church in a yuppy Dallas suburb is creating a plate of nachos so large that no one who is starving will ever see.
Apparently, there were hundreds of kids there at this event. Are hundreds of kids really going to eat 3,555 lbs of nachos? I don't think so. So, what happened to the rest? I can only guess.
I know that doing fun things can get people into church and our rationale is that once we get them there, they will hear the Word of Truth and be here for good. Dave told me something that he read on a blog when churches were giving away cars and big screen tvs on Easter Sunday in an effort to get people in the church doors: What you win people to Jesus with is what you win them to."
The gimmicks we use to get people in the doors aren't always bad. But, like Dave said, we give away materialistic goods and then later we're going to turn around and no longer endorse being a part of a material driven world. There has to be a balance somewhere.
In my mind, I have a hard time justifying building a huge plate of nachos purely for the sake of getting people in the doors of the church. Not when it's excess. Not when alot of it probably went to waste. Not when a church will take the glory for breaking a record. "By faith in God Northstar Church broke a world record in nacho building." Yeah, I don't think we'll see that added to the Book of Hebrews anytime soon.
Did people come? Sure they did. I'm not saying that I wouldn't have been tempted to drive out there and see or even eat some of these nachos, if, for nothing else, to say that I was a part of breaking a world record.
But those unchurched people who did come, what is their perception of God and the Church? Do they view church as fun, fun, fun? 'Cause, you know, it's not all about fun. Live life to the fullest, yes, but it's not all cherries and roses and we can't lure people into the church believing that it's all fun and games.
Maybe I'm being too harsh. I know that their motives were pure. I'm sure that their sole desire was to bring people in. I know that they had honest intentions. And they are just a springboard for me to focus on a larger issue.
How far is too far in gimmicks? Maybe you can help me with this. What is too much?
Whatever happened to the Word. What happened to the Words that were as sharp as a double-edged sword that could pierce to very marrow of the bone?
Unfortunately, my pride only lasted a brief second.
They are in the news because they are trying to break a Guinness World Record. For what, you might ask? For the largest plate of nachos. They loaded a trough full of chips, caked it in cheese, threw on some peppers and added a ton of salsa. The final measurement? 3,555.25 lbs. (The old record was 3,158 lbs.)
An article in the Dallas Morning News quotes the assistant pastor as saying, "We want to show you that you don't have to be stiff and starchy to love God."
Really? So, while millions of people around the world are starving to death, a church in a yuppy Dallas suburb is creating a plate of nachos so large that no one who is starving will ever see.
Apparently, there were hundreds of kids there at this event. Are hundreds of kids really going to eat 3,555 lbs of nachos? I don't think so. So, what happened to the rest? I can only guess.
I know that doing fun things can get people into church and our rationale is that once we get them there, they will hear the Word of Truth and be here for good. Dave told me something that he read on a blog when churches were giving away cars and big screen tvs on Easter Sunday in an effort to get people in the church doors: What you win people to Jesus with is what you win them to."
The gimmicks we use to get people in the doors aren't always bad. But, like Dave said, we give away materialistic goods and then later we're going to turn around and no longer endorse being a part of a material driven world. There has to be a balance somewhere.
In my mind, I have a hard time justifying building a huge plate of nachos purely for the sake of getting people in the doors of the church. Not when it's excess. Not when alot of it probably went to waste. Not when a church will take the glory for breaking a record. "By faith in God Northstar Church broke a world record in nacho building." Yeah, I don't think we'll see that added to the Book of Hebrews anytime soon.
Did people come? Sure they did. I'm not saying that I wouldn't have been tempted to drive out there and see or even eat some of these nachos, if, for nothing else, to say that I was a part of breaking a world record.
But those unchurched people who did come, what is their perception of God and the Church? Do they view church as fun, fun, fun? 'Cause, you know, it's not all about fun. Live life to the fullest, yes, but it's not all cherries and roses and we can't lure people into the church believing that it's all fun and games.
Maybe I'm being too harsh. I know that their motives were pure. I'm sure that their sole desire was to bring people in. I know that they had honest intentions. And they are just a springboard for me to focus on a larger issue.
How far is too far in gimmicks? Maybe you can help me with this. What is too much?
Whatever happened to the Word. What happened to the Words that were as sharp as a double-edged sword that could pierce to very marrow of the bone?
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Mock Draft 1.0
For those of you who care, I'd like to know what you think of these picks.
It'll be interesting to see just how inaccurate this eventually ends up being:
1. St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma-- While probably not the best player in the draft, the Rams need a franchise quarterback. Bradford could be that guy. After releasing Marc Bulger, the Rams are paving the way for Bradford to step in and start.
2. Detroit Lions- Ndomukong Suh, DT, Nebraska-- The best, most physical player in the draft. To me, this pick is a no-brainer for a defensive minded head coach like Jim Schwartz.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma-- Bucs have a lot of needs, but the best bang for their buck is gonna be McCoy.
4. Washington Redskins- Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State-- Unless they sign a guy like Flozell Adams before the draft, expect an OT here. This draft is deep with OTs, so I could see it being Trent Williams from Oklahoma, or even Bruce Campbell of Maryland. Without a solid OT, Donovan McNabb is going to be forced into retirement after the beating he'll take next year. I would be surprised to see them pick up a quarterback. I think they may have their eyes set on Colt McCoy in the 2nd...if that's the case, it would be very hard to like Colt for a while...
5. Kansas City Chiefs- Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma-- What don't they need? Even after paying Cassel out the nose, they may need a quarterback if he doesn't play better than last year. Still, I don't see them giving up on Matt yet. Just get someone in there to protect him. Oklahoma dominates thus far...
6. Seattle Seahawks- Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame-- Peter Carroll has studied this kid for the past several years. He knows what he's got and he knows that Hasselbeck is old and fragile. No slide for the Golden Domer.
7. Cleveland Browns-Earl Thomas, FS, Texas-- Thomas has a buzz about him that has me believing he's going up draft boards, not the other way around. This is a surprise pick. Most have Eric Berry of Tennessee here, but I think the Holmgren will be fascinated by Earl's nose for the football.
8. Oakland Raiders- Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers-- I'm not so confident in this one (like anyone can have any confidence in a mock draft). An OT just doesn't seem a "sexy" enough pick for Al Davis. Had they not taken a WR last year, I would be tempted to say Dez Bryant...still wouldn't surprise me.
9. Buffalo Bills- Brian Bulaga, OT, Iowa-- If Clausen should fall at all, look for it to be a short fall. Without a solid first round QB to pick up, I see them going with the person who will protect their future.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars- Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech-- Big, strong and fast. Charlie Casserly had the right idea a few years ago when he took Mario Williams to attempt to terrorize Peyton Manning. Look for Jack Del Rio to follow suit.
11. Denver Broncos- Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee-- I could see them picking an offensive lineman here, but my money's on defense.
12. Miami Dolphins- Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida-- Bill Parcells will pick up a DeMarcus Ware body type (but 2 inches taller) that will make Tom Brady's weak in the knee...ha! Another outside possibility would be Sergio Kindle. I'm pretty sure Tyler Potts still wakes up sweating when he's been dreaming about that hit...
13. San Francisco 49ers- Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee-- The 49ers have a little bit of flexibility here since they have another pick at 17, but Berry has fallen far enough. There's a need in San Francisco that Mike Singletary hope Berry can fill.
14. Seattle Seahawks- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State-- A quarterback's gotta have somebody to throw it to, right? Bryant has speed and size. He reminds me of Andre Johnson; probably the best all around WR in the NFL.
15. New York Giants- Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State-- A defensive line that was dominant a few years ago, didn't look so in 2009. The Giants lack a real presence in the middle of the line. Jared Odrick will be surrounded by some good defensive ends to make his job as a rookie little easier.
16. Tennessee Titans- Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida-- I could see the Titans going with a strong DE, but with the loss of veteran Kevin Mawae (most likely), look for the Titans to find someone to fill those big shoes on the OL.
17. San Francisco 49ers- Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland-- I hesitate to put him here because he was one I was hoping might fall to the Cowboys. Alas, he will be gone long before my Boys pick.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Iupati, G, Idaho-- Perhaps the Steelers should consider Colt McCoy? You know, Mike Iupati may not have anyone to block for if Ben gets suspended or locked up, so why not?
19. Atlanta Falcons- Sergio Kindle, DE, Texas-- Atlanta is in need of a good pass rusher. Kindle has the size and the speed to be their answer.
20. Houston Texans- Joe Haden, CB, Florida-- After the loss of Dunta Robinson to the Falcons, the Texans are going to need to find a good replacement corner.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma-- Did anybody watch Hard Knocks last year? Me neither. I did catch bits and pieces of one episode. Every tight end they had got busted up. Here's hoping that knee holds up!
22. New England Patriots- Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida-- I don't know. It just seems to make sense.
23. Green Bay Packers- Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State-- With two aging cornerbacks, I think Mike McCarthy will try to get younger.
24. Philadelphia Eagles- Everson Griffin, DE, Southern California-- The Iggles need someone other than Trent Cole to rush the passer.
25. Baltimore Ravens-Brandon Gresham, DE, Michigan-- It's a toss up between DE or CB. Brandon Gresham has more of a first round grade to me that Devin McCourty
26. Arizona Cardinals- Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama-- After losing Carlos Dansby (and everyone else on the team), this team needs a quarterback on the defense.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Taylor Mays, FS, USC-- People have made comparisons to Roy Williams I beause he's a hard hitter. However, Taylor can run. Officially, a 4.43 40. Someone at the NFL Network handclocked him at 4.24. Either way, the kid's fast. I could also see the Cowboys choosing Nate Allen from South Florida. Left Tackle is also a possibility since the Cowboys cut Flozell Adams. If they choose to go that route, look for USC OT Charles Brown. However, the Cowboys seem to be pretty high on Doug Free and last year's rookie, Robert Brewster. I think they'll add some OL depth in the later rounds.
28. San Diego Chargers- Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State-- With LT gone, the Charges will be in need of someone bigger than Darren Sproles. Mathews has the capability to be a strong inside runner and still maintains speed to get to the corner.
29. New York Jets- Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois-- Even with Braylon Edwards, the Jets still need an elite reciever.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois-- With little OG depth behind Hutchinson and Herrera, they need someone young to groom.
31. Indianapolis Colts- Brian Price, DT, UCLA-- Add some punch to the middle of that defense.
32. New Orleans Saints- Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida-- The loss of Scott Fujita to the Browns hurts. He was a productive leader during his time in New Orleans and Sean Payton will need to find his replacement.
So, there you have it. Comments? Criticisms? Complements?
It'll be interesting to see just how inaccurate this eventually ends up being:
1. St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma-- While probably not the best player in the draft, the Rams need a franchise quarterback. Bradford could be that guy. After releasing Marc Bulger, the Rams are paving the way for Bradford to step in and start.
2. Detroit Lions- Ndomukong Suh, DT, Nebraska-- The best, most physical player in the draft. To me, this pick is a no-brainer for a defensive minded head coach like Jim Schwartz.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma-- Bucs have a lot of needs, but the best bang for their buck is gonna be McCoy.
4. Washington Redskins- Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State-- Unless they sign a guy like Flozell Adams before the draft, expect an OT here. This draft is deep with OTs, so I could see it being Trent Williams from Oklahoma, or even Bruce Campbell of Maryland. Without a solid OT, Donovan McNabb is going to be forced into retirement after the beating he'll take next year. I would be surprised to see them pick up a quarterback. I think they may have their eyes set on Colt McCoy in the 2nd...if that's the case, it would be very hard to like Colt for a while...
5. Kansas City Chiefs- Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma-- What don't they need? Even after paying Cassel out the nose, they may need a quarterback if he doesn't play better than last year. Still, I don't see them giving up on Matt yet. Just get someone in there to protect him. Oklahoma dominates thus far...
6. Seattle Seahawks- Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame-- Peter Carroll has studied this kid for the past several years. He knows what he's got and he knows that Hasselbeck is old and fragile. No slide for the Golden Domer.
7. Cleveland Browns-Earl Thomas, FS, Texas-- Thomas has a buzz about him that has me believing he's going up draft boards, not the other way around. This is a surprise pick. Most have Eric Berry of Tennessee here, but I think the Holmgren will be fascinated by Earl's nose for the football.
8. Oakland Raiders- Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers-- I'm not so confident in this one (like anyone can have any confidence in a mock draft). An OT just doesn't seem a "sexy" enough pick for Al Davis. Had they not taken a WR last year, I would be tempted to say Dez Bryant...still wouldn't surprise me.
9. Buffalo Bills- Brian Bulaga, OT, Iowa-- If Clausen should fall at all, look for it to be a short fall. Without a solid first round QB to pick up, I see them going with the person who will protect their future.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars- Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech-- Big, strong and fast. Charlie Casserly had the right idea a few years ago when he took Mario Williams to attempt to terrorize Peyton Manning. Look for Jack Del Rio to follow suit.
11. Denver Broncos- Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee-- I could see them picking an offensive lineman here, but my money's on defense.
12. Miami Dolphins- Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida-- Bill Parcells will pick up a DeMarcus Ware body type (but 2 inches taller) that will make Tom Brady's weak in the knee...ha! Another outside possibility would be Sergio Kindle. I'm pretty sure Tyler Potts still wakes up sweating when he's been dreaming about that hit...
13. San Francisco 49ers- Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee-- The 49ers have a little bit of flexibility here since they have another pick at 17, but Berry has fallen far enough. There's a need in San Francisco that Mike Singletary hope Berry can fill.
14. Seattle Seahawks- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State-- A quarterback's gotta have somebody to throw it to, right? Bryant has speed and size. He reminds me of Andre Johnson; probably the best all around WR in the NFL.
15. New York Giants- Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State-- A defensive line that was dominant a few years ago, didn't look so in 2009. The Giants lack a real presence in the middle of the line. Jared Odrick will be surrounded by some good defensive ends to make his job as a rookie little easier.
16. Tennessee Titans- Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida-- I could see the Titans going with a strong DE, but with the loss of veteran Kevin Mawae (most likely), look for the Titans to find someone to fill those big shoes on the OL.
17. San Francisco 49ers- Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland-- I hesitate to put him here because he was one I was hoping might fall to the Cowboys. Alas, he will be gone long before my Boys pick.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Iupati, G, Idaho-- Perhaps the Steelers should consider Colt McCoy? You know, Mike Iupati may not have anyone to block for if Ben gets suspended or locked up, so why not?
19. Atlanta Falcons- Sergio Kindle, DE, Texas-- Atlanta is in need of a good pass rusher. Kindle has the size and the speed to be their answer.
20. Houston Texans- Joe Haden, CB, Florida-- After the loss of Dunta Robinson to the Falcons, the Texans are going to need to find a good replacement corner.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma-- Did anybody watch Hard Knocks last year? Me neither. I did catch bits and pieces of one episode. Every tight end they had got busted up. Here's hoping that knee holds up!
22. New England Patriots- Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida-- I don't know. It just seems to make sense.
23. Green Bay Packers- Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State-- With two aging cornerbacks, I think Mike McCarthy will try to get younger.
24. Philadelphia Eagles- Everson Griffin, DE, Southern California-- The Iggles need someone other than Trent Cole to rush the passer.
25. Baltimore Ravens-Brandon Gresham, DE, Michigan-- It's a toss up between DE or CB. Brandon Gresham has more of a first round grade to me that Devin McCourty
26. Arizona Cardinals- Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama-- After losing Carlos Dansby (and everyone else on the team), this team needs a quarterback on the defense.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Taylor Mays, FS, USC-- People have made comparisons to Roy Williams I beause he's a hard hitter. However, Taylor can run. Officially, a 4.43 40. Someone at the NFL Network handclocked him at 4.24. Either way, the kid's fast. I could also see the Cowboys choosing Nate Allen from South Florida. Left Tackle is also a possibility since the Cowboys cut Flozell Adams. If they choose to go that route, look for USC OT Charles Brown. However, the Cowboys seem to be pretty high on Doug Free and last year's rookie, Robert Brewster. I think they'll add some OL depth in the later rounds.
28. San Diego Chargers- Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State-- With LT gone, the Charges will be in need of someone bigger than Darren Sproles. Mathews has the capability to be a strong inside runner and still maintains speed to get to the corner.
29. New York Jets- Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois-- Even with Braylon Edwards, the Jets still need an elite reciever.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois-- With little OG depth behind Hutchinson and Herrera, they need someone young to groom.
31. Indianapolis Colts- Brian Price, DT, UCLA-- Add some punch to the middle of that defense.
32. New Orleans Saints- Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida-- The loss of Scott Fujita to the Browns hurts. He was a productive leader during his time in New Orleans and Sean Payton will need to find his replacement.
So, there you have it. Comments? Criticisms? Complements?
Friday, April 2, 2010
Good, Good Friday
Ask Abby sometime what the Cross means. She'll tell you, "That Jesus loves us."
More than we could ever understand. This is just a little reminder on this, the day over 2,000 years ago that our Savior was crucified. "Love so amazing, so divine, demands my life, my soul, my all!"
More than we could ever understand. This is just a little reminder on this, the day over 2,000 years ago that our Savior was crucified. "Love so amazing, so divine, demands my life, my soul, my all!"
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Rant
Sometimes, it seems that I am impermeable. Sometimes.
I hear students talk when they don't think I can hear them and they talk about things that I wish I hadn't heard. I know more than they think I do.
There are times when I can listen to my students talk about things that break my heart, say a prayer for them and move on with my lesson.
Today was not one of those days.
In between class periods, one girl (girl #1) came in, sat down and asked one of her friends (girl #2) if she could do her a favor. Girl #2 said sure before she had heard what it was. It was here that girl #1 turned her back to me so that I couldn't hear. (Either I hear better than most, or she talks louder than she thinks; I can't decide which.) Girl #1 told girl #2 that she told her mom that she was going to spend the night at girl #2's house tonight so that they could work on a project together. Instead, girl #1 was going to her boyfriend's because his parents are out of town this weekend. "So could you back me up if my mom calls you and asks you if I'm there?" Girl #2 agreed. (Apparently, mom is that gullible.)
Normally, this would be one of those things that I over hear and pray about.
Girl #1 talks about going to church a lot, but I hear the other things she always talks about and I know. I know what kind of girl she really is. But I expected more from girl #2. I even told her that she shouldn't lie for her friends. "She's like my best friend."
And that makes it ok, apparently.
A student jokingly asked me today if I ever wished that I taught 3rd graders. I laughed and told her, "Yes." When she asked why, I bluntly told her, "Most 3rd graders are still innocent."
Sometimes it's hard to listen to kids who you come to respect fall victim to their friends rather than do what Jesus expects of them...what He requires of them.
I know that peer pressure can be hard to fight. I understand that it's tougher now to consistently stand for Christ than it was 10 years ago. I get that. Still, hard doesn't equal impossible. And hard doesn't equal excuse.
Most of these kids who "believe" in Jesus don't get that there is a big gap in believing in and living for. It's the living for that makes the believing in real.
Thank the Lord for the handful of students who live out their faith. It's real. Almost tangible. Those are the kids that give me hope for the rest of them. Without them, this would be a dark place to be.
I hear students talk when they don't think I can hear them and they talk about things that I wish I hadn't heard. I know more than they think I do.
There are times when I can listen to my students talk about things that break my heart, say a prayer for them and move on with my lesson.
Today was not one of those days.
In between class periods, one girl (girl #1) came in, sat down and asked one of her friends (girl #2) if she could do her a favor. Girl #2 said sure before she had heard what it was. It was here that girl #1 turned her back to me so that I couldn't hear. (Either I hear better than most, or she talks louder than she thinks; I can't decide which.) Girl #1 told girl #2 that she told her mom that she was going to spend the night at girl #2's house tonight so that they could work on a project together. Instead, girl #1 was going to her boyfriend's because his parents are out of town this weekend. "So could you back me up if my mom calls you and asks you if I'm there?" Girl #2 agreed. (Apparently, mom is that gullible.)
Normally, this would be one of those things that I over hear and pray about.
Girl #1 talks about going to church a lot, but I hear the other things she always talks about and I know. I know what kind of girl she really is. But I expected more from girl #2. I even told her that she shouldn't lie for her friends. "She's like my best friend."
And that makes it ok, apparently.
A student jokingly asked me today if I ever wished that I taught 3rd graders. I laughed and told her, "Yes." When she asked why, I bluntly told her, "Most 3rd graders are still innocent."
Sometimes it's hard to listen to kids who you come to respect fall victim to their friends rather than do what Jesus expects of them...what He requires of them.
I know that peer pressure can be hard to fight. I understand that it's tougher now to consistently stand for Christ than it was 10 years ago. I get that. Still, hard doesn't equal impossible. And hard doesn't equal excuse.
Most of these kids who "believe" in Jesus don't get that there is a big gap in believing in and living for. It's the living for that makes the believing in real.
Thank the Lord for the handful of students who live out their faith. It's real. Almost tangible. Those are the kids that give me hope for the rest of them. Without them, this would be a dark place to be.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
"Well, At Least I've Chosen a Side"
Storm said that to Wolverine in the first X-Men movie.
Jeff told an interesting story to the youth tonight and I thought I'd share it with you. Some may find it kind of cheesy, but that doesn't change the message.
Jesus and Satan are in a pasture walking the same direction on opposite sides of a fence. When they see a group congregated near the fence line, they walk up and engage them in a conversation.
Then comes the invitation. Jesus says, "If you come to my side of the fence, it will take a firm commitment. Things won't always be easy. In fact, sometimes, it might be near impossible. However, I promise that I will never leave and I promise that once everything is over with, you'll live forever in Heaven with me."
The group liked the idea of living forever, so many of them started to head over to Jesus' side of the fence, but then Satan spoke up. "Look, everyone. You come to my side of the fence and I won't require any kind of commitment from you. We'll have a good time. Live it up and party hard."
The group seemed split. Some went to Jesus' side of the fence. More went to Satan's.
One person couldn't seem to make a decision. On one hand, he loved the idea of living forever and he might really be buying into this Jesus guy, but on the other hand, it sure was enticing to party hard and go with Satan. For now, he decided that he would just sit on the fence. Dead center. No choice made.
Everyone left him there. Sitting on the fence wondering what would happen next.
Later, Satan came back. "Boy, it's time you came with me now."
"Umm, no. You see, I'm undecided. I'm sitting here right in the middle of the fence. I'm not on Jesus' side where I could live forever, but maybe have it kind of tough and I'm not on your side living it up."
Satan replied, "You don't seem to understand. You're mine now. I own the fence."
Call it cheesy if you want, but I still thought that the point was quite clear. You have to choose. Not choosing is a choice.
I wonder how many people sit in our pews walking on the fence? Doing the whole Jesus thing because everlasting life sure does sound enticing, but not fully buying into it. Still living for themselves.
Now, here's where I note that many of those who will come across my blog in one way or another have made their choice. They have chosen Jesus and they live like they have. There is no middle ground for them.
How many teenagers do I encounter each day who talk of going to church and being a Christian, but obviously don't try to live like they are? Sadly, most of them.
I was talking to a student just today who was mentioning how she would react violently if provoked. I asked her if that was the way Jesus would respond. Before she even thought to say yes or no, she said that today wasn't a "church day." And this was the instant where she caught herself and realized that yes, it is Wednesday, and yes, she did go to church on Wednesdays. However, she made a direct link between living right and talking about Jesus only when she was on her way to church.
It blows me away at the amount of people that I encounter who live like that. We'll be good and straight-laced on Sunday (and maybe Wednesday), but the rest of the week is for me.
These are the people who have chosen a side and don't even realize it. They claim to know Christ. Some can even tell you of a conversion experience that they had when they were in the 7th grade. Some can tell you about the day that they got baptized. But they don't really know Christ. There was never a conversion (implying that something has radically changed). And the baptism? Well, that was just a show, right?
Sadly, these are the people who believe that they have their bus ticket to an awesome afterlife, but, I believe, in the end, Jesus will look at them and say, "Depart from me, for I never knew you (Matthew 7:23)." These are the people who don't really understand how narrow the way and how small the gate is that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14). They don't understand that their lives are probably headed down the road that leads to destruction.
So, I ask again, how many people sitting in pews this Sunday are on that road that leads to destruction? I fear that the number is greater than we think.
If they are in the very building built to minister to them, how, then can we get them to walk on Jesus' side of the fence?
Jeff told an interesting story to the youth tonight and I thought I'd share it with you. Some may find it kind of cheesy, but that doesn't change the message.
Jesus and Satan are in a pasture walking the same direction on opposite sides of a fence. When they see a group congregated near the fence line, they walk up and engage them in a conversation.
Then comes the invitation. Jesus says, "If you come to my side of the fence, it will take a firm commitment. Things won't always be easy. In fact, sometimes, it might be near impossible. However, I promise that I will never leave and I promise that once everything is over with, you'll live forever in Heaven with me."
The group liked the idea of living forever, so many of them started to head over to Jesus' side of the fence, but then Satan spoke up. "Look, everyone. You come to my side of the fence and I won't require any kind of commitment from you. We'll have a good time. Live it up and party hard."
The group seemed split. Some went to Jesus' side of the fence. More went to Satan's.
One person couldn't seem to make a decision. On one hand, he loved the idea of living forever and he might really be buying into this Jesus guy, but on the other hand, it sure was enticing to party hard and go with Satan. For now, he decided that he would just sit on the fence. Dead center. No choice made.
Everyone left him there. Sitting on the fence wondering what would happen next.
Later, Satan came back. "Boy, it's time you came with me now."
"Umm, no. You see, I'm undecided. I'm sitting here right in the middle of the fence. I'm not on Jesus' side where I could live forever, but maybe have it kind of tough and I'm not on your side living it up."
Satan replied, "You don't seem to understand. You're mine now. I own the fence."
Call it cheesy if you want, but I still thought that the point was quite clear. You have to choose. Not choosing is a choice.
I wonder how many people sit in our pews walking on the fence? Doing the whole Jesus thing because everlasting life sure does sound enticing, but not fully buying into it. Still living for themselves.
Now, here's where I note that many of those who will come across my blog in one way or another have made their choice. They have chosen Jesus and they live like they have. There is no middle ground for them.
How many teenagers do I encounter each day who talk of going to church and being a Christian, but obviously don't try to live like they are? Sadly, most of them.
I was talking to a student just today who was mentioning how she would react violently if provoked. I asked her if that was the way Jesus would respond. Before she even thought to say yes or no, she said that today wasn't a "church day." And this was the instant where she caught herself and realized that yes, it is Wednesday, and yes, she did go to church on Wednesdays. However, she made a direct link between living right and talking about Jesus only when she was on her way to church.
It blows me away at the amount of people that I encounter who live like that. We'll be good and straight-laced on Sunday (and maybe Wednesday), but the rest of the week is for me.
These are the people who have chosen a side and don't even realize it. They claim to know Christ. Some can even tell you of a conversion experience that they had when they were in the 7th grade. Some can tell you about the day that they got baptized. But they don't really know Christ. There was never a conversion (implying that something has radically changed). And the baptism? Well, that was just a show, right?
Sadly, these are the people who believe that they have their bus ticket to an awesome afterlife, but, I believe, in the end, Jesus will look at them and say, "Depart from me, for I never knew you (Matthew 7:23)." These are the people who don't really understand how narrow the way and how small the gate is that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14). They don't understand that their lives are probably headed down the road that leads to destruction.
So, I ask again, how many people sitting in pews this Sunday are on that road that leads to destruction? I fear that the number is greater than we think.
If they are in the very building built to minister to them, how, then can we get them to walk on Jesus' side of the fence?
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
It's An Epidemic!
One thing that has always weighed heavy on my heart is teenagers and sex. It breaks my heart to hear kids walking through the halls of Conroe High talking about things that they shouldn't be experiencing yet. It breaks my heart to see 15, 16, 17 and 18 years old girls walking down the halls about to pop. (Just the other day, I proctored a test and in the room was a 10th grader who just celebrated her daughter's 3rd birthday...I'm 28 and my oldest daughter has yet to turn 3). That's alot of responsibility for a kid to handle.
But it's more than that. It's more than the responsibility that they are forced to undertake. It's the hearts that it breaks. Each others' (when it invariably doesn't work out), any children who might be involved and most importantly, the Lord's.
Now, I haven't been employed at many schools...only 3, but the problem of sexual immorality is worse here at Conroe High than anywhere else I've been. In my first two years of teaching, I could count on one hand the amount of students that I had who had children or were about to. At Conroe High, my hands and feet wouldn't be enough to count in this one school year. And that breaks my heart because I know that it breaks God's.
Popular culture has done nothing to diminish this epidemic. Add to that a generation of students who, for the most part, are growing up with no moral code and you have teenagers who grow up believing that "Whatever is, is right (Alexander Pope)."
Killeen had a program called "Worth the Wait." Students would wear shirts that said on the front "I am..." and on the back, "worth the wait!" It takes a strong support system and a school to encourage that kind of behavior and commitment...and yes, it is a commitment.
Even the good kids. The ones who I know attend church and have a strong relationship with Jesus have admitted to me that they have fallen victim to the temptation. I remember one time in class, somehow, we got on the topic of waiting for your future husband/wife. I had one student, who I respect and admire for her relationship with Christ say, "I wish I could do that." It broke my heart. Since then, I always wonder: "Has this kid, who professes Christ so boldly fallen victim to the temptation?" The cynic in me often finds myself saying, "Probably."
It has become so problematic that I know a youth minister once told his youth group that the majority of them would probably have sex before marriage if they hadn't already. How sad is that? Giving the students a prophecy to fulfill because you assume that it's going to happen. Hopefully, he wasn't right.
It's a problem that weighs heavy on me. When I see and hear these kids showing no regard to their purity, it saddens me.
That's why today was so refreshing.
During my conference period/lunch break I had a student making up a test. While she was taking her test, another student came in and sat down, almost in tears. She walked out of her class because all the kids around her were talking about was sex. She said she hears it at church, at school and she's tired of it. And it broke her heart.
How good to see a student who respects her body. A student who loves the Lord enough to stand up and say that she is tired of hearing about it. It's good to know that there are still some who know what God has said about it and are willing to take a stand to wait.
1 Corinthians 6:18-20: "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."
But it's more than that. It's more than the responsibility that they are forced to undertake. It's the hearts that it breaks. Each others' (when it invariably doesn't work out), any children who might be involved and most importantly, the Lord's.
Now, I haven't been employed at many schools...only 3, but the problem of sexual immorality is worse here at Conroe High than anywhere else I've been. In my first two years of teaching, I could count on one hand the amount of students that I had who had children or were about to. At Conroe High, my hands and feet wouldn't be enough to count in this one school year. And that breaks my heart because I know that it breaks God's.
Popular culture has done nothing to diminish this epidemic. Add to that a generation of students who, for the most part, are growing up with no moral code and you have teenagers who grow up believing that "Whatever is, is right (Alexander Pope)."
Killeen had a program called "Worth the Wait." Students would wear shirts that said on the front "I am..." and on the back, "worth the wait!" It takes a strong support system and a school to encourage that kind of behavior and commitment...and yes, it is a commitment.
Even the good kids. The ones who I know attend church and have a strong relationship with Jesus have admitted to me that they have fallen victim to the temptation. I remember one time in class, somehow, we got on the topic of waiting for your future husband/wife. I had one student, who I respect and admire for her relationship with Christ say, "I wish I could do that." It broke my heart. Since then, I always wonder: "Has this kid, who professes Christ so boldly fallen victim to the temptation?" The cynic in me often finds myself saying, "Probably."
It has become so problematic that I know a youth minister once told his youth group that the majority of them would probably have sex before marriage if they hadn't already. How sad is that? Giving the students a prophecy to fulfill because you assume that it's going to happen. Hopefully, he wasn't right.
It's a problem that weighs heavy on me. When I see and hear these kids showing no regard to their purity, it saddens me.
That's why today was so refreshing.
During my conference period/lunch break I had a student making up a test. While she was taking her test, another student came in and sat down, almost in tears. She walked out of her class because all the kids around her were talking about was sex. She said she hears it at church, at school and she's tired of it. And it broke her heart.
How good to see a student who respects her body. A student who loves the Lord enough to stand up and say that she is tired of hearing about it. It's good to know that there are still some who know what God has said about it and are willing to take a stand to wait.
1 Corinthians 6:18-20: "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
Combining Things
So many others seem to be chiming in on it, so I figured I might as well offer my cent and a half as well. (Now you're asking yourself, "Why isn't he offering his two cents?" The answer: probably because my opinions isn't worth as much as those of Peter King and the talking heads on ESPN.)
The NFL Scouting Combine.
Alot of people seem to be coming down hard on the combine and I agree with them.
Alot of people praise the combine and I agree with them.
Hmmm.
For those who aren't in the know about the Combine, it's a 6 day workout session for more than 200 former college football players. They bench press, jump, run, and interview for 600+ NFL personnel from teams around the league.
The knock on the combine? Who cares if Chris Johnson runs a 4.24 40 yard dash? Can he still do it zig-zagging between defensive tackles and linebackers with 25 lbs of pads on? What's the point of knowing how high Michael Oher can jump if he can't move his feet well enough to keep top rated outside linebackers and defensive ends off of his quarterback's blindside?
All valid questions. All questions that I totally agree with. You can't judge a football player by having them run drills that will never translate onto the football field. Chris Johnson will never be running down the straight down the field with nothing but Under Armour on his body. Never will Michael Oher have the need to jump as he possibly can.
Many insiders, I believe, would tell you that the best judge of a football player is watching them on film, playing football. Makes plenty of sense, right? Judge a football player by watching him play football.
So what is the point of the Combine, exactly?
It's at the Combine that we find out just how hard prospects have been working since their college days have ended. Every year we hear about the big names who show up 30 pounds overweight. Usually the fat offensive and defensive linemen. We get to see what kind of personal drive they have and what kind of effect it has on their performance. Personal drive that will affect their long term performance. Their committment to the team.
It's at the Combine where we see how fast guys can run. Wait...didn't you already say that? Yeah. I did.
Even though a guy will never run on a football field wihtout pads, there's still speed there...and everyone else is running with pads, too. Have you seen Chris Johnson run away from defenders? There's a reason I picked him in my fantasy draft when he was a rookie. They laughed at me then. The next year, he was taken in the first round. Speed is still speed. Put the same pads on everyone else and you've got a slower speed, yes, but everyone is slower now.
It's at the Combine where we meet prospects and figure out how smart they are. What do they know about strategy and game plans ? What kind of men are they? Will they cause problems in the locker room? Or worse. Off the field?
So, yeah. The Combine is a big show that draws a devoted crowd. It's a money maker. There's still something that NFL personnel can gain from sending scouts and coaches to see and talk to these guys. There's just not as much to gain as some might think.
The NFL Scouting Combine.
Alot of people seem to be coming down hard on the combine and I agree with them.
Alot of people praise the combine and I agree with them.
Hmmm.
For those who aren't in the know about the Combine, it's a 6 day workout session for more than 200 former college football players. They bench press, jump, run, and interview for 600+ NFL personnel from teams around the league.
The knock on the combine? Who cares if Chris Johnson runs a 4.24 40 yard dash? Can he still do it zig-zagging between defensive tackles and linebackers with 25 lbs of pads on? What's the point of knowing how high Michael Oher can jump if he can't move his feet well enough to keep top rated outside linebackers and defensive ends off of his quarterback's blindside?
All valid questions. All questions that I totally agree with. You can't judge a football player by having them run drills that will never translate onto the football field. Chris Johnson will never be running down the straight down the field with nothing but Under Armour on his body. Never will Michael Oher have the need to jump as he possibly can.
Many insiders, I believe, would tell you that the best judge of a football player is watching them on film, playing football. Makes plenty of sense, right? Judge a football player by watching him play football.
So what is the point of the Combine, exactly?
It's at the Combine that we find out just how hard prospects have been working since their college days have ended. Every year we hear about the big names who show up 30 pounds overweight. Usually the fat offensive and defensive linemen. We get to see what kind of personal drive they have and what kind of effect it has on their performance. Personal drive that will affect their long term performance. Their committment to the team.
It's at the Combine where we see how fast guys can run. Wait...didn't you already say that? Yeah. I did.
Even though a guy will never run on a football field wihtout pads, there's still speed there...and everyone else is running with pads, too. Have you seen Chris Johnson run away from defenders? There's a reason I picked him in my fantasy draft when he was a rookie. They laughed at me then. The next year, he was taken in the first round. Speed is still speed. Put the same pads on everyone else and you've got a slower speed, yes, but everyone is slower now.
It's at the Combine where we meet prospects and figure out how smart they are. What do they know about strategy and game plans ? What kind of men are they? Will they cause problems in the locker room? Or worse. Off the field?
So, yeah. The Combine is a big show that draws a devoted crowd. It's a money maker. There's still something that NFL personnel can gain from sending scouts and coaches to see and talk to these guys. There's just not as much to gain as some might think.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
It's Lookin' Bleak...
Collecting writing samples that I have to pass on to someone else for a purpose that I don't fully understand is punishing enough. Collecting writing samples that have nothing to do with English is just plain frustrating. I was given a math and science prompt for my kids to use. Those are two subjects that I've spent the last 10 years trying very hard to forget about, so I knew that I wouldn't be much help to them in those areas, but I did my due dilligence and figured out how to explain perpendicular bisectors and angle bisectors of triangles.
We needed 5 samples. The first 3 are past tense narratives. I chose to toss out the science prompt and give the kids a social studies prompt. Simple enough, right? Let's write about the Civil War. I just wanted them to explain the conflicts between the North and South. That's it.
The kids came in. They looked at the prompt on the board. They started their barrage of questions and comments. Questions that made my jaw drop and my tears fall.
"Which war was that?"
"I don't remember anything about the Civil War!"
"Who did we fight in that one?"
Are you kidding me?! These are seniors in high school and they couldn't intelligently tell me what the Civil War was all about.
What a sad day.
On to day two. Bisectors. Now, I'll be the first to admit that I didn't know what bisectors were, but when I looked them up...not that tough. Lines that cut lines/angles in half. Wow. That's tough. You'd think that I would've asked them to explain Einstein's theory of relativity.
I see Jay Leno stopping them on a street in New York and asking them who the first President was. And I hear them saying, "Abraham Lincoln!" And then, the rest of America laughs at them.
So, what went wrong? When did our kids stop being able to think for themselves? When did they start relying on other people to do their work? Maybe we just stopped expecting enough from them. I don't know, but it sure is a sad day when 18 and 19 year olds can't tell you anything about the Civil War.
Are you fearing for our future yet?
We needed 5 samples. The first 3 are past tense narratives. I chose to toss out the science prompt and give the kids a social studies prompt. Simple enough, right? Let's write about the Civil War. I just wanted them to explain the conflicts between the North and South. That's it.
The kids came in. They looked at the prompt on the board. They started their barrage of questions and comments. Questions that made my jaw drop and my tears fall.
"Which war was that?"
"I don't remember anything about the Civil War!"
"Who did we fight in that one?"
Are you kidding me?! These are seniors in high school and they couldn't intelligently tell me what the Civil War was all about.
What a sad day.
On to day two. Bisectors. Now, I'll be the first to admit that I didn't know what bisectors were, but when I looked them up...not that tough. Lines that cut lines/angles in half. Wow. That's tough. You'd think that I would've asked them to explain Einstein's theory of relativity.
I see Jay Leno stopping them on a street in New York and asking them who the first President was. And I hear them saying, "Abraham Lincoln!" And then, the rest of America laughs at them.
So, what went wrong? When did our kids stop being able to think for themselves? When did they start relying on other people to do their work? Maybe we just stopped expecting enough from them. I don't know, but it sure is a sad day when 18 and 19 year olds can't tell you anything about the Civil War.
Are you fearing for our future yet?
Saturday, February 13, 2010
"Ahhh, the Olympics."
The words of Pheobe Buffay (after hearing the wedding march), "Ahh, the Olympics."
Just in case you missed it, the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver have overtaken the NBC airwaves. Am I complaining? By no means!
It seems that I never really look forward to the Olympics (probably more so in the Winter), but in the weeks leading up the Opening Ceremonies, I find myself more and more anxious for the games to begin. Perhaps it's something to fill the spot that football has left. Perhaps it's all of the sappy stories that bring tears to my eyes. (ie, the Dan Jensen Visa commercial- promises his dying sister that he'll win gold, he crashes; next Olympic games, he wins and takes the victory lap with his daughter who he named after his dead sister...I know.)
Who knows what, exactly, it is, but there is some amazing draw to any Olympic games.
I just finished watching Apolo Ohno take second place in the 1500 short track speed skating because two Korean racers tried to pass each other and wiped out. Koreans were going to sweep the race. Instead, one Korean gets 1st, USA cleans up with 2nd and 3rd.
Ando now, the women's moguls...in a blinding fog. Exciting stuff.
Things that I would NEVER watch outside of the Olympic moniker. The world's best athletes competing in one city during 14 days. Definitely worth checking out.
What draws you to the Olympics?
Just in case you missed it, the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver have overtaken the NBC airwaves. Am I complaining? By no means!
It seems that I never really look forward to the Olympics (probably more so in the Winter), but in the weeks leading up the Opening Ceremonies, I find myself more and more anxious for the games to begin. Perhaps it's something to fill the spot that football has left. Perhaps it's all of the sappy stories that bring tears to my eyes. (ie, the Dan Jensen Visa commercial- promises his dying sister that he'll win gold, he crashes; next Olympic games, he wins and takes the victory lap with his daughter who he named after his dead sister...I know.)
Who knows what, exactly, it is, but there is some amazing draw to any Olympic games.
I just finished watching Apolo Ohno take second place in the 1500 short track speed skating because two Korean racers tried to pass each other and wiped out. Koreans were going to sweep the race. Instead, one Korean gets 1st, USA cleans up with 2nd and 3rd.
Ando now, the women's moguls...in a blinding fog. Exciting stuff.
Things that I would NEVER watch outside of the Olympic moniker. The world's best athletes competing in one city during 14 days. Definitely worth checking out.
What draws you to the Olympics?
Sunday, February 7, 2010
And Another Season is Gone
I'll be the first to admit. I wanted the Colts to win. I like Peyton. I wanted to see him solidify his legacy as, arguably, the best quarterback in NFL history. I wanted to say, "I watched him become great." not that I haven't, but, I think, this would have been IT. Now, despite Dustin's hatred for the player, he's still a great quarterback. But today, he wasn't the best in Miami.
I'll also be the first to admit that the Saints played a great game. The first quarter as an exception, Drew Brees was unstoppable. He threaded what had, until tonight, been a highly underrated Colts defense. Tonight, Brees made them look overrated.
The Saints coaching was far superior tonight. Sean Payton (former offensive coordinator in Dallas--just thought I'd throw that in there) was gutsy--that onside kick to start the second half, wow! He found the right matchups at the right times.
So, congrats Who Dat nation. Your team can no longer be called the 'Aints. 3 wins this post-season. 2 in the previous 42 years. That's a team of destiny if there ever was one. Bourbon street will be partying till the wee hours of Thursday morning. Then, there will be a few hours of rest before Mardi Gras begins to rock the streets. This is gonna be a very, very long party.
So now, another football season is over. This year, there's not even a probowl to "look forward to" (in quotations because...who really looks forward to the probowl?). Football is over 'till August and there's only one happy team.
Now...as one of the 31 unhappy teams, my Cowboys can take this away from this season: 3 victories over the Eagles. First playoff win in 13 years AND we beat the SuperBowl champions at home when they were at their peak in the regular season. Definitely somethings to build on.
So this doesn't come out to be about the Cowboys...Again, CONGRATS WHO DAT!
I'll also be the first to admit that the Saints played a great game. The first quarter as an exception, Drew Brees was unstoppable. He threaded what had, until tonight, been a highly underrated Colts defense. Tonight, Brees made them look overrated.
The Saints coaching was far superior tonight. Sean Payton (former offensive coordinator in Dallas--just thought I'd throw that in there) was gutsy--that onside kick to start the second half, wow! He found the right matchups at the right times.
So, congrats Who Dat nation. Your team can no longer be called the 'Aints. 3 wins this post-season. 2 in the previous 42 years. That's a team of destiny if there ever was one. Bourbon street will be partying till the wee hours of Thursday morning. Then, there will be a few hours of rest before Mardi Gras begins to rock the streets. This is gonna be a very, very long party.
So now, another football season is over. This year, there's not even a probowl to "look forward to" (in quotations because...who really looks forward to the probowl?). Football is over 'till August and there's only one happy team.
Now...as one of the 31 unhappy teams, my Cowboys can take this away from this season: 3 victories over the Eagles. First playoff win in 13 years AND we beat the SuperBowl champions at home when they were at their peak in the regular season. Definitely somethings to build on.
So this doesn't come out to be about the Cowboys...Again, CONGRATS WHO DAT!
It's All About the Sacrifice
People say that life is about a lot of different things. Family. Friends. Work. Whatever it is that keeps them ticking is, to them, what life is all about.
Christians, hopefully, tell you that it's about some deeper things. Many will probably tell you that it's about love. It is by your love that they will know. The words of Christ Himself. Love. You can't argue with that. We act because we love.
However, I want to throw something else into the singular pantheon of what the Christian life is about. Sacrifice.
I feel like it all boils down to sacrifice...to an extent (and I'll revist that statement later). Whatever we do seems to be a sacrifice of some sort. Whether it be of our time, our money, our emotions. It's all a sacrifice. Christ has called us to a life of sacrifice. What is that, though?
Patrick's Collegiate Spiritual Dictionary, 1st ed. defines it as, "giving up what one wants to bring attention to something else." Giving up your time. Giving up your money. Giving up your body. Giving up your emotions. All for the purpose of bringing a greater attention to Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
To me, this goes hand in hand with love (thus the "to an extent" statement). We are willing to sacrifice because we love Christ. We love Christ, which is, sometimes, a sacrifice. It seems that you can't have one without the other. I think too often, we forget about the sacrifice.
And to be honest, most of us probably sacrifice anyways. We just don't always recognize it as sacrifice because we have done it for so long, with love, that it no longer becomes a sacrifice.
Paul says that we are to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. That we are to offer our lives as living sacrifices. Holy and pleasing. This will be our extreme act of worship (Romans 12:1).
For His sake, sacrifice. Do that which is not always easy for you to do. Do that that you don't always have time, money or desire to do. God will provide. He'll take care of your needs. He'll give you the energy or the opportunity to make up time. He'll instill in you a love to do it.
Love. Sacrifice.
Christians, hopefully, tell you that it's about some deeper things. Many will probably tell you that it's about love. It is by your love that they will know. The words of Christ Himself. Love. You can't argue with that. We act because we love.
However, I want to throw something else into the singular pantheon of what the Christian life is about. Sacrifice.
I feel like it all boils down to sacrifice...to an extent (and I'll revist that statement later). Whatever we do seems to be a sacrifice of some sort. Whether it be of our time, our money, our emotions. It's all a sacrifice. Christ has called us to a life of sacrifice. What is that, though?
Patrick's Collegiate Spiritual Dictionary, 1st ed. defines it as, "giving up what one wants to bring attention to something else." Giving up your time. Giving up your money. Giving up your body. Giving up your emotions. All for the purpose of bringing a greater attention to Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
To me, this goes hand in hand with love (thus the "to an extent" statement). We are willing to sacrifice because we love Christ. We love Christ, which is, sometimes, a sacrifice. It seems that you can't have one without the other. I think too often, we forget about the sacrifice.
And to be honest, most of us probably sacrifice anyways. We just don't always recognize it as sacrifice because we have done it for so long, with love, that it no longer becomes a sacrifice.
Paul says that we are to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. That we are to offer our lives as living sacrifices. Holy and pleasing. This will be our extreme act of worship (Romans 12:1).
For His sake, sacrifice. Do that which is not always easy for you to do. Do that that you don't always have time, money or desire to do. God will provide. He'll take care of your needs. He'll give you the energy or the opportunity to make up time. He'll instill in you a love to do it.
Love. Sacrifice.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Faith vs. Experience
You hear King Nebuchadnezzar and you probably think of one of three things: 1. Daniel, 2. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, or 3. VeggieTales! (C'mon, "Good morning, George, how are you?" Good stuff.
But have you ever looked at Nezzar's (we'll call him that because it's easier AND that's what the VeggieTales like to call him) experience within the lives of Daniel and the boys? If you blink, you just might miss it.
Start in Daniel chapter 2 and you'll find a king conflicted over the dreams he's been having. It takes Daniel to interpret the dream. When Daniel is finally able to give Nezzar the answer he has been so desparately searching for, he falls prostrate on the floor. He says, in verse 47: "Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and revealer of mysteries..." Praise the Lord! Another follower of Yahweh because of the faith of Daniel! Right? Your answer is yest if you stop at the end of chapter 2. If you keep going, you find an unchanged man.
Chapter 3 starts out, "King 'Nezzar' made an image of gold..." And the rest, as they say, is history. The image was him. Everyone in the kingdom was supposed to fall down and worship this image of Nezzar. Sound like a changed man? Not at all. Sound like worhipper of Yahweh? Nope.
You know the rest of the story. Rach, Shach and Bennie (again, VeggieTales) don't bow down, get tossed into a firey furnace, but don't get burned, while those just getting too close to the furnace do. One who looks to be the "son of the gods (v. 25) was in the furnace with them. How does Nezzar react now?
vs. 28-29- "Praise be the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent His angel and rescued His servants! They trusted in Him and defied the king's commands and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. Therefore, I decree that the people of any nation or language who say anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego be cut into pieces and their houses be burned into piles of rubble, for no other god can save in this way."
I see a big jump there. You may not, and I may be thinking about it too much, but I see a man who says, "Wow. That was really cool what you say your God did. If you say He did it, ok. Thanks." Then I see a man who says, "Oh, my gosh! Your God frickin' rocks! Anybody who tries to serve any other god is just plain stupid because I have never seen anything that cool in my life!"
What's the difference? Why did it seem to click the second time around? It became personal for Nezzar. He was able to see it with his own eyes. With Daniel, it could've been tossed up to chance. It could've been attributed to Daniel, despite who Daniel said the credit belonged to. It wasn't personal yet. With the boys, it was up close and personal. He saw it all with his own eyes. Noone else relayed information. He couldn't help but admit what was right in front of him. They said their God would save them and He did!
It reminds me of Thomas. Doubting Thomas. Poor guy will have that moniker for the rest of time. All because he wouldn't believe what he had been told. His mind focused only on what was real. On what he could see. Did Jesus perform the miracles? Sure, but he saw those happen with his own eyes. He was there. He talked to those who had been changed. But when it came to the Miracle Performer performing a miracle like no other--raising Himself from the dead; well, now. That's different. That's not possible. Show me proof. Let me see the nail pierced hands. Let me see the gash in his side. Then I'll believe.
Jesus told Thomas that he believed because he saw, but blessed are those who believe and will never see.
How much proof do you require? How many times do you ask that God show His power. Have you ever wondered if He was really there? Have you ever doubted that He can do all the things the Bible says He did?
Jesus calls us to faith. Through our faith, we experience. Without faith, we'll never have the proof. If we look for the proof to have the faith, we may not be as lucky as Nezzar and Thomas were.
It's not abnormal for believers to doubt from time to time. Many struggle with it occasionally. What separates those who struggle and those who fall victim to the doubt is how you weather the storm. Believe. God will show Himself, but you have to belive. Jesus healed because the sick and the broken had faith that He could and would. Believe. Wherever you are believe.
But have you ever looked at Nezzar's (we'll call him that because it's easier AND that's what the VeggieTales like to call him) experience within the lives of Daniel and the boys? If you blink, you just might miss it.
Start in Daniel chapter 2 and you'll find a king conflicted over the dreams he's been having. It takes Daniel to interpret the dream. When Daniel is finally able to give Nezzar the answer he has been so desparately searching for, he falls prostrate on the floor. He says, in verse 47: "Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and revealer of mysteries..." Praise the Lord! Another follower of Yahweh because of the faith of Daniel! Right? Your answer is yest if you stop at the end of chapter 2. If you keep going, you find an unchanged man.
Chapter 3 starts out, "King 'Nezzar' made an image of gold..." And the rest, as they say, is history. The image was him. Everyone in the kingdom was supposed to fall down and worship this image of Nezzar. Sound like a changed man? Not at all. Sound like worhipper of Yahweh? Nope.
You know the rest of the story. Rach, Shach and Bennie (again, VeggieTales) don't bow down, get tossed into a firey furnace, but don't get burned, while those just getting too close to the furnace do. One who looks to be the "son of the gods (v. 25) was in the furnace with them. How does Nezzar react now?
vs. 28-29- "Praise be the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent His angel and rescued His servants! They trusted in Him and defied the king's commands and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. Therefore, I decree that the people of any nation or language who say anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego be cut into pieces and their houses be burned into piles of rubble, for no other god can save in this way."
I see a big jump there. You may not, and I may be thinking about it too much, but I see a man who says, "Wow. That was really cool what you say your God did. If you say He did it, ok. Thanks." Then I see a man who says, "Oh, my gosh! Your God frickin' rocks! Anybody who tries to serve any other god is just plain stupid because I have never seen anything that cool in my life!"
What's the difference? Why did it seem to click the second time around? It became personal for Nezzar. He was able to see it with his own eyes. With Daniel, it could've been tossed up to chance. It could've been attributed to Daniel, despite who Daniel said the credit belonged to. It wasn't personal yet. With the boys, it was up close and personal. He saw it all with his own eyes. Noone else relayed information. He couldn't help but admit what was right in front of him. They said their God would save them and He did!
It reminds me of Thomas. Doubting Thomas. Poor guy will have that moniker for the rest of time. All because he wouldn't believe what he had been told. His mind focused only on what was real. On what he could see. Did Jesus perform the miracles? Sure, but he saw those happen with his own eyes. He was there. He talked to those who had been changed. But when it came to the Miracle Performer performing a miracle like no other--raising Himself from the dead; well, now. That's different. That's not possible. Show me proof. Let me see the nail pierced hands. Let me see the gash in his side. Then I'll believe.
Jesus told Thomas that he believed because he saw, but blessed are those who believe and will never see.
How much proof do you require? How many times do you ask that God show His power. Have you ever wondered if He was really there? Have you ever doubted that He can do all the things the Bible says He did?
Jesus calls us to faith. Through our faith, we experience. Without faith, we'll never have the proof. If we look for the proof to have the faith, we may not be as lucky as Nezzar and Thomas were.
It's not abnormal for believers to doubt from time to time. Many struggle with it occasionally. What separates those who struggle and those who fall victim to the doubt is how you weather the storm. Believe. God will show Himself, but you have to belive. Jesus healed because the sick and the broken had faith that He could and would. Believe. Wherever you are believe.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Farewell to a Future Legend
His is a once in a lifetime story.
Grocery store stocker, earning minimum wage in the middle of nowhere while at the same time working as an unpaid graduate assisstant coach at his alma mater, Northern Iowa. All while living in the basement of his in-laws home.
That's when the Arena Football League came calling. He became a star with the Iowa Barnstormers. Yes, you read that right. Barnstormers. Fierce, I know.
Finally the NFL came calling. The Chicago Bears. Invited to camp, but, eventually a spider bite got him cut. Talk about bad luck! After "Da Bers," Kurt Warner went to the St. Louis Rams, but was sent to Europe to play for the Amsterdam Admirals.
In 1998, Warner finally made it onto a real NFL roster...as a third string quarterback. By 1999, he was a backup. One injury later, and Kurt Warner is leading the St. Louis Rams to a victory in Superbowl XXXIV in one of the greatest Superbowls every played. He earned the game MVP for his Superbowl record 414 passing yards and two touchdowns.
In 2001, the Rams were once again led to the Superbowl on the arm of Warner. However, they fell short agains the rising stars of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.
Seven years and two teams later and Kurt Warner is with the Arizona Cardinals as a backup before the 2008 season begins. He is named the starter just prior the opening game. It was in this season that he cemented his legacy.
The St. Louis Rams had never been to the Superbowl before Kurt Warner. Now, they'be been to two. The Arizona Cardinals had never been to the Superbowl before Kurt Warner. Now they have. Prior to the '09 Superbowl vs. Pittsburgh, it would've been a tough call to get Kurt into the Hall of Fame. Now, I don't think there's any doubt.
The rags-riches story is nice, but, I think that Kurt would tell you that that isn't what he wants to be remembered for. Kurt is a family man. Him and his wife, Brenda, have 7 children (2 Kurt adopted for Brenda's former marriage). Kurt is a Jesus man, first.
Warner has never shied away from letting the world know that it was God.....family.....................then football.
Yesterday, Kurt Warner announced his retirement from the NFL. And a class act leaves his mark on the game and his legacy of faith that won't be retired.
So, today, I say farewell to the future Hall-of-Famer, and today, I say thank you to the man who lived right, spoke freely of his faith and set an example for so many to follow.
Grocery store stocker, earning minimum wage in the middle of nowhere while at the same time working as an unpaid graduate assisstant coach at his alma mater, Northern Iowa. All while living in the basement of his in-laws home.
That's when the Arena Football League came calling. He became a star with the Iowa Barnstormers. Yes, you read that right. Barnstormers. Fierce, I know.
Finally the NFL came calling. The Chicago Bears. Invited to camp, but, eventually a spider bite got him cut. Talk about bad luck! After "Da Bers," Kurt Warner went to the St. Louis Rams, but was sent to Europe to play for the Amsterdam Admirals.
In 1998, Warner finally made it onto a real NFL roster...as a third string quarterback. By 1999, he was a backup. One injury later, and Kurt Warner is leading the St. Louis Rams to a victory in Superbowl XXXIV in one of the greatest Superbowls every played. He earned the game MVP for his Superbowl record 414 passing yards and two touchdowns.
In 2001, the Rams were once again led to the Superbowl on the arm of Warner. However, they fell short agains the rising stars of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick.
Seven years and two teams later and Kurt Warner is with the Arizona Cardinals as a backup before the 2008 season begins. He is named the starter just prior the opening game. It was in this season that he cemented his legacy.
The St. Louis Rams had never been to the Superbowl before Kurt Warner. Now, they'be been to two. The Arizona Cardinals had never been to the Superbowl before Kurt Warner. Now they have. Prior to the '09 Superbowl vs. Pittsburgh, it would've been a tough call to get Kurt into the Hall of Fame. Now, I don't think there's any doubt.
The rags-riches story is nice, but, I think that Kurt would tell you that that isn't what he wants to be remembered for. Kurt is a family man. Him and his wife, Brenda, have 7 children (2 Kurt adopted for Brenda's former marriage). Kurt is a Jesus man, first.
Warner has never shied away from letting the world know that it was God.....family.....................then football.
Yesterday, Kurt Warner announced his retirement from the NFL. And a class act leaves his mark on the game and his legacy of faith that won't be retired.
So, today, I say farewell to the future Hall-of-Famer, and today, I say thank you to the man who lived right, spoke freely of his faith and set an example for so many to follow.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
From the Mouths of Babes
My two year old has it down. She gets it. Why, then is it so hard for me?
Every night we read stories before bed. Most of the time it's a few Bible stories from one of her "Baby" Bibles and then another little night time book. Currently, the night time book is "Good Night Little Lamb."
Tonight was not unlike any other night. Before bed, we go potty. We brush teeth. We get paci. We pray.
It was my turn tonight. I climbed up into bed with Abby reached across her to grab the two books that were on her bedside table. 1. "Good Night Little Lamb" 2. "Baby" Bible. I figured that we'd read "Good Night Little Lamb" first and finish up with the Bible stories. Abby had other ideas.
As I pulled "Good Night Little Lamb" out first, I was abruptly stopped by a little voice saying, "No! Jesus first!"
That was it. "Jesus first!" She gets it. She gets what Jesus told us in Matthew 6: "Seek FIRST His Kingdom..." Jesus first.
Now, I know that it was simply her preference order tonight. Tomorrow may be different. But that little moment spoke to me. My two year old reminded me tonight how important it is to make sure Jesus is first. Before I crack open that Vince Flynn novel to put myself to sleep, I had better crack open The Word. Before I pop in and episode of "The Office," I had better pop into Jesus' words. I need to do a better job of make sure Jesus is first.
Why does it become so easy to make Jesus second or third. Why does it become so hard to consistently make Him first?
I pray that I can find that answer. I pray that I can respond the way God has called me to.
If my two year old can get it down, then, surely I can get it. Right?
Every night we read stories before bed. Most of the time it's a few Bible stories from one of her "Baby" Bibles and then another little night time book. Currently, the night time book is "Good Night Little Lamb."
Tonight was not unlike any other night. Before bed, we go potty. We brush teeth. We get paci. We pray.
It was my turn tonight. I climbed up into bed with Abby reached across her to grab the two books that were on her bedside table. 1. "Good Night Little Lamb" 2. "Baby" Bible. I figured that we'd read "Good Night Little Lamb" first and finish up with the Bible stories. Abby had other ideas.
As I pulled "Good Night Little Lamb" out first, I was abruptly stopped by a little voice saying, "No! Jesus first!"
That was it. "Jesus first!" She gets it. She gets what Jesus told us in Matthew 6: "Seek FIRST His Kingdom..." Jesus first.
Now, I know that it was simply her preference order tonight. Tomorrow may be different. But that little moment spoke to me. My two year old reminded me tonight how important it is to make sure Jesus is first. Before I crack open that Vince Flynn novel to put myself to sleep, I had better crack open The Word. Before I pop in and episode of "The Office," I had better pop into Jesus' words. I need to do a better job of make sure Jesus is first.
Why does it become so easy to make Jesus second or third. Why does it become so hard to consistently make Him first?
I pray that I can find that answer. I pray that I can respond the way God has called me to.
If my two year old can get it down, then, surely I can get it. Right?
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Now we know
I was going to make my second post anything but about football. I've spent the last few hours going over different topics to write about after the games were over.
Now they're both over.
After that, how can I not write about these games?
The early game (Colts vs. Jets) was not one for the ages. There was nothing grand about the score or the defenses shutting anybody down. There was nothing great about it, that is, unless you watched it. Peyton Manning. Need I say more? He's always been good. He's always been better than good. But today he was great. Against a Rex Ryan defense that has been the best all season and has been near perfect in the postseason. Manning shredded them like cheese. He was precise. He was in control. 377 yards and 3 touchdowns. He looked great. Games like that are what he will be remembered for.
The late game (Saints vs. Vikings) wa s one for the ages. I can't lie. I wanted the Vikes to lose. I didn't like what they did to the Cowboys last weekend with under 2 minutes left and wanted to see them get a beat down this week. It didn't happen. At least not the way I thought. I wanted it to be with points. (Let me note here that I didn't want Favre to be injured in any way, but I wasn't going to shred a tear if he threw 2 interceptions). This beat down came in the form of pressure. Brett spent half the game on his back. The Saints defense was relentless. They never quit despite the way Favre played in the face of some pretty large bodies. I'll give him credit. He showed why he's been able to play for 19 years and start every game since he first went to Green Bay. Just one too many turnovers. Back and forth all night. No lead greater than 7. Two premier quarterbacks. And what did it come down to? A 2nd year player and a 40 yard field goal. Yes, the Vikings go their beat down. 3 points and they were crushed.
WHO DAT?
So now, we look on to February 7th. Miami. Colts vs. Saints. Two number one seeds meeting in the Superbowl. How many times has that happened in the last 15 years? I would guess, not many. This will be an interesting game. I'm pulling for the Colts, though. I'm not gonna buy the Team of Destiny stuff that they're throwing out for the Saints. Congrats on getting there guys, but I like the Colts too much to not root for them. I'm picking the Colts as well. As good as the Saints looked on offense and defense, I'm not gonna bet against Peyton. Not after today. He finds a way to win. He makes everyone around him look better. Pierre Garcon from Mount Union? That's D-3. I know them because I went to a D-3. But how many people know of Mount Union? Peyton makes D-3 look good.
Knowing that, I'm gonna walk on to the Colts next season. Maybe Peyton can make me look good enough to get on the team. Sure. You all believe that. He's good. He's not God.
So...here's my congrats to the Saints and my good luck the the Colts.
Now they're both over.
After that, how can I not write about these games?
The early game (Colts vs. Jets) was not one for the ages. There was nothing grand about the score or the defenses shutting anybody down. There was nothing great about it, that is, unless you watched it. Peyton Manning. Need I say more? He's always been good. He's always been better than good. But today he was great. Against a Rex Ryan defense that has been the best all season and has been near perfect in the postseason. Manning shredded them like cheese. He was precise. He was in control. 377 yards and 3 touchdowns. He looked great. Games like that are what he will be remembered for.
The late game (Saints vs. Vikings) wa s one for the ages. I can't lie. I wanted the Vikes to lose. I didn't like what they did to the Cowboys last weekend with under 2 minutes left and wanted to see them get a beat down this week. It didn't happen. At least not the way I thought. I wanted it to be with points. (Let me note here that I didn't want Favre to be injured in any way, but I wasn't going to shred a tear if he threw 2 interceptions). This beat down came in the form of pressure. Brett spent half the game on his back. The Saints defense was relentless. They never quit despite the way Favre played in the face of some pretty large bodies. I'll give him credit. He showed why he's been able to play for 19 years and start every game since he first went to Green Bay. Just one too many turnovers. Back and forth all night. No lead greater than 7. Two premier quarterbacks. And what did it come down to? A 2nd year player and a 40 yard field goal. Yes, the Vikings go their beat down. 3 points and they were crushed.
WHO DAT?
So now, we look on to February 7th. Miami. Colts vs. Saints. Two number one seeds meeting in the Superbowl. How many times has that happened in the last 15 years? I would guess, not many. This will be an interesting game. I'm pulling for the Colts, though. I'm not gonna buy the Team of Destiny stuff that they're throwing out for the Saints. Congrats on getting there guys, but I like the Colts too much to not root for them. I'm picking the Colts as well. As good as the Saints looked on offense and defense, I'm not gonna bet against Peyton. Not after today. He finds a way to win. He makes everyone around him look better. Pierre Garcon from Mount Union? That's D-3. I know them because I went to a D-3. But how many people know of Mount Union? Peyton makes D-3 look good.
Knowing that, I'm gonna walk on to the Colts next season. Maybe Peyton can make me look good enough to get on the team. Sure. You all believe that. He's good. He's not God.
So...here's my congrats to the Saints and my good luck the the Colts.
Friday, January 22, 2010
We've only just begun...
Well, I did it. I finally gave in to the pressure--and by pressure, I mean Dustin telling me one time that I needed to create a blog. I have now started a blog. A real shocker to anyone reading this, right?
Me: Reader, you're reading a blog.
You: Wow! I never would've guessed that this was a blog. (Probably because this guy's too good)
At least you're here.
When thinking of what my blog was going to be about I knew that it wouldn't be me if I didn't write about my faith in my Lord and what He is doing in my life. The One thing in life that completes it. That saves it. That sustains it. But how could I leave out my family? The most important people in my life this side of Heaven. God has blessed me too greatly to leave out my beautiful bride, my two wonderful princesses, the family who has loved me and the friends that should be family. And the very distant third is football. From pee-wee to NFL retirees...it's all fair game.
Starting this reminds me of a quote I read at Despair.Com: "Never before have so many people with so little to say said so much so much to so few."
Hopefully, you will come here to find more than it seems most bloggers offer and most readers read. Hopefully, you will come here and be blessed and have some fun.
Untill the next time: "May the Lord bless you and keep you."
Me: Reader, you're reading a blog.
You: Wow! I never would've guessed that this was a blog. (Probably because this guy's too good)
At least you're here.
When thinking of what my blog was going to be about I knew that it wouldn't be me if I didn't write about my faith in my Lord and what He is doing in my life. The One thing in life that completes it. That saves it. That sustains it. But how could I leave out my family? The most important people in my life this side of Heaven. God has blessed me too greatly to leave out my beautiful bride, my two wonderful princesses, the family who has loved me and the friends that should be family. And the very distant third is football. From pee-wee to NFL retirees...it's all fair game.
Starting this reminds me of a quote I read at Despair.Com: "Never before have so many people with so little to say said so much so much to so few."
Hopefully, you will come here to find more than it seems most bloggers offer and most readers read. Hopefully, you will come here and be blessed and have some fun.
Untill the next time: "May the Lord bless you and keep you."
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