The Most Important Principle I've Learned in 2012

The most important principle I've learned in 2012- I'm not responsible for the outcome; I am responsible for the effort.

So much in life is beyond our control, yet we constantly focus on outcomes. For instance, each of us know parents who did their best to raise God-honoring children, yet their children are now far from a relationship with Christ. We each know a couple that appeared to be in a happily-ever-after marriage, but then either the husband or wife "met someone" or "fell out of love" and a divorce followed shortly thereafter. Job layoffs occur. Concerning test results come back from the doctor. You get rear-ended in traffic. People doing the best they can but yet the outcome isn't what they hoped for or expected.

This principle is seen throughout Scripture:

• Noah built a boat for decades. He offered to rescue anyone who would listen. But yet only Noah and his family survived the flood. Noah wasn't responsible for the outcome, but he was responsible for the effort.
• Jeremiah preached of the need for repentance for years and years. Yet we would not think of his ministry as a success due to a lack of converts. But Jeremiah wasn't responsible for the outcome, he was responsible for the effort.
• John the Baptist prepared the way of the Lord. He baptized Jesus at the beginning of Christ's public ministry. Ultimately, John was beheaded in prison for the cause of Christ. Not the outcome he'd expected. John wasn't responsible for the outcome, but he was responsible for the effort.

Why should it be any different for us? Many times we find ourselves in situations not of our own making, in the middle of circumstances beyond our control.

In these times we'd do well to remember- we're not responsible for the outcome; we are responsible for the effort.

4 Bowl Predictions

Music City Bowl
North Carolina State (7-5) vs. Vanderbilt (8-4)
Parker's pick: Vanderbilt
My pick: Vanderbilt
N.C.State is going through a coaching change. James Franklin has Vandy playing one of its best seasons ever.

Sun Bowl
USC (7-5) vs. Georgia Tech (6-7)
Parker's pick: Georgia Tech
My pick: USC
Parker's pointed out that Tech actually has some better statistics than USC. I'm thinking USC has better athletes. USC will be missing Matt Barkley due to injury. Could go either way.

Liberty Bowl
Iowa State (6-6) vs. Tulsa (10-3)
Parker's pick: Tulsa
My pick: Tulsa
I was surprised to learn Iowa State even qualified for a bowl. Tulsa won its conference.

Chick-fil-A Bowl
LSU (10-2) vs. Clemson (10-2)
Parker's pick: Clemson
My pick: LSU
Clemson offense vs. LSU defense. The unit that wins that battle wins the game for their school.

Bowl Predictions: 5 Bowls

Armed Forces Bowl
Rice (6-6) vs. Air Force (6-6)
Parker's pick: Air Force
My pick: Air Force
Air Force should win the Armed Forces Bowl, right? The Air Force offense leans heavily toward the run and is based on assignment execution. Rice finished the season well and has had time to prepare for the Falcons. If Air Force gets behind early, this game will likely be decided. Go Air Force!

Pinstripe Bowl
West Virginia (7-5) vs. Syracuse (7-5)
Parker's pick: West Virginia
My pick: West Virginia
Anyone who saw the Mountaineers dismantle Clemson last bowl season knows that West Virginia knows how to prepare for a bowl. The West Virginia season bottomed out mid-year but the Mountaineers closed with two victories. Syracuse is a team on the rise and got better as the season moved forward. Geno Smith should lead West Virginia to a win against a long-time rival.

Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl
Navy (8-4) vs. Arizona State (7-5)
Parker's pick: Navy
My pick: Arizona State
Parker thinks Navy's stellar rushing attack will be the difference. I think Arizona State's superior athleticism will be decisive. I hope he's right. We always cheer for the military academies in bowl games. Go Navy!

Alamo Bowl
Texas (8-4) vs. Oregon State (9-3)
Parker's pick: Texas
My pick: Oregon State
Parker thinks Texas is due to finish strong, especially playing in Texas. I think Oregon State is ranked for a reason.

Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl
TCU (7-5) vs. Michigan State (6-6)
Parker's pick: Michigan State
My pick: TCU
A toss-up. Michigan State's run game leads Parker to choose the Spartans. I'm going with TCU because Gary Patterson usually has his teams ready for bowl games.

Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

Parker loves basketball. After recently watching a game featuring former Kentucky Wildcat and No. 1 overall NBA draft pick, Anthony Davis:
Parker: It sure would be great to have a unibrow.
Me: No. No it wouldn't. That's not something you really want.
Parker: Why? Why wouldn't it?

On a Sunday afternoon not long ago:
Me: Why don't you go take a nap?
Turner: I can't sleep in the daytime. Now, in the nighttime, yes.
Me: Turner, you're funny.
Turner: I wouldn't say funny. Hilarious, yes.

While watching a recent NFL game:
Parker: If I were an offensive lineman, I'd tell the referee I'm an eligible receiver on every play. I'd want to catch the pass.

Bowl Predictions: Independence, Russell Athletic, Meineke Car Care

Independence Bowl
Ohio (8-4) vs. Louisiana-Monroe (8-4)
Parker's pick: Louisiana-Monroe
My pick: Louisiana-Monroe

Ohio faded mightily down the stretch. Louisiana-Monroe played some tough SEC competition this season and fared well.

Russell Athletic Bowl
Rutgers (9-3) vs. Virginia Tech (6-6)
Parker's pick: Virginia Tech
My pick: Rutgers

A toss-up. Does the traditional football power Virginia Tech show up tonight or does their disappointing season continue? Is Rutgers a good team or have they simply played alot of weak teams?

Meineke Care Care Bowl
Minnesota (6-6) vs. Texas Tech (7-5)
Parker's pick: Texas Tech
My pick: Texas Tech

Even in the midst of a coaching change, Texas Tech should defeat a team that finished 2-6 in the weak Big Ten.

Great Quote Thursday

You must be frank in the world, frankness is the child of honesty and courage. Say just what you mean to do on every occasion, and take it for granted you mean to do right. Above all do not appear to others what you are not- Robert E. Lee to his son, as Robert E. Lee Jr. was beginning college

Bowl Predictions: Military, Belk and Holiday

Military Bowl
San Jose State (10-2) vs. Bowling Green (8-4)
Parker's pick: Bowling Green
My pick: San Jose State

CBS Sports panel guys go heavily toward San Jose State. I might as well also. Parker's trying to pick up a game on me by going with the underdog. After the SMU and CMU victories, he's decided "anything can happen".


Belk Bowl
Cincinnati (9-3) vs. Duke (6-6)
Parker's pick: Cincinnati
My pick: Cincinnati

Cincinnati may miss former head coach Butch Jones who left to come to Tennessee but they should have the talent to overcome a Duke team that started the season strong but faded down the stretch. We'd both love to see David Cutcliffe win this game but that's probably not the smart pick.


Holiday Bowl
Baylor (7-5) vs. UCLA (9-4)
Parker's pick: Baylor
My pick: Baylor

In what should be an offensive shootout, we'll go with the better offense. UCLA is probably the better team, but for one game, we're both choosing Baylor.

Bowl Predictions: Little Caesars Bowl

Little Caesars Bowl
Western Kentucky (7-5) vs. Central Michigan (6-6)
Parker's pick: Western Kentucky
My pick: Western Kentucky

Excitement abounds when the 5th place team in the Sun Belt (Western Kentucky) plays the 4th place team in the MAC West (Central Michigan). WKU lost coach Willie Taggart to South Florida, replacing him with Bobby Petrino. Two of CMU's top receivers will sit out this game due to suspension.

Merry Christmas

Christ left everything, to come to nothing, to take care of everything.

Bowl Prediction: Hawaii Bowl

Hawaii Bowl
Fresno State (9-3) vs. SMU (6-6)
Parker's pick: Fresno State
My pick: Fresno State

On paper, this game could be a blowout. But it is bowl season and that's why the games are played on the field.

Bowl Predictions: New Orleans Bowl and Maaco Las Vegas Bowl

New Orleans Bowl
East Carolina (8-4) vs. Louisiana-Lafayette (8-4)
Parker's pick: Louisiana-Lafayette
My pick: Louisiana-Lafayette

Louisiana-Lafayette has a slightly stronger running game and are bascially playing a home game. Plus, all the CBS Sports College Football writers are choosing the Ragin Cajuns. Hope they're right.

Maaco Las Vegas Bowl
Boise State (10-2) vs. Washington (7-5)
Parker's pick: Boise State
My pick: Boise State

This season has been somewhat of a disappointment for the Washington Huskies. Even though this Boise State squad is not playing in a BCS bowl, the Broncos historically play well in bowl games when they have weeks to prepare for an opponent.

Bowl Prediction: Beef O' Brady's Bowl

Beef O' Brady's Bowl
Ball State (9-3) vs. Central Florida (9-4)
Parker's pick: Ball State
My pick: Central Florida

The Knights from Central Florida have a solid running and are playing what is basically a home game. Parker's going with Ball State because they're the underdog.

Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

Parker: Hey, can we drink some corn from a jar?
Me: What?
Parker: Like in the Rocky Top song.

Tonya (to Turner as she hugged him goodnight on his bed): Oh, my baby.
Turner: My adult.

Turner: Look at this little spoon I had when I was a baby. I loved this spoon.
Me: Why do we still have that spoon? In case somebody with a baby comes over?
Turner: So if another person moves into this house with a baby, they'll have a spoon.
Me: Who's going to move in here with a baby?
Turner: You never know. You never know.

Great Quote Thursday

It's awfully easy to look back from twenty years and see what should have been done. And the historian, no matter how careful, can never feel the tension, the uncertainty, hear the rumors--and put himself in the situation at the time of the action- Dwight Eisenhower

Bowl Prediction: San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl

San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
BYU (7-5) vs. San Diego State (9-3)
Parker's pick: San Diego State
My pick: BYU

Surely this bowl has one of the longest names of any bowl. A rematch of former Mountain West Conference rivals, San Diego State has a powerful running game while BYU boasts a strong defense.  This game is a toss-up.

7 Questions for Men

North Point Ministries, under the direction of John Woodall, has developed a new men's ministry study titled "7 Questions That Rattle in the Minds of Most Men". It is a work developed by Woodall to help address the different stages of life that men face:

Birth to age 20: Foundation
20's: Preparation
30's: Initiation
40's-50's: Domination
60's-70's: Consolidation
80's: Afterglow

The study looks interesting. Here are the 7 Questions:
1. Where Am I?
There is a reason for every season.
Ecclesiastes 3:1

2. From Where Have I Come?
The cost of an unresolved past is missing the present and fearing the future.
Acts 24:16

3. Who Am I?
Discovery leads to recovery.
Psalm 139:14

4. Why Am I Here?
You were created on purpose for a purpose.
John 10:10

5. Where Am I Going?
Your legacy is defined by default or design.
Psalm 90:10, 12

6. What About Women?
Don't say "Don't," say, "Help."
Galatians 5:16

7. Who Can I Trust?
Secrets are too powerful to keep.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

The Bowl Season Kicks Off

Today the 2012-2013 bowl season kicks off with two games: the Gildan New Mexico Bowl in Albuquerque, New Mexico and the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl from Boise, Idaho.

As we did last bowl season, I've entered into a friendly competition with my 8 year old son Parker to pick bowl game winners. We'll be picking winners straight-up, none of this against the spread stuff. For the record, Parker outpicked me by 3 games last year.

Here we go:

Gildan New Mexico Bowl
Nevada (7-5) vs. Arizona (7-5)
Parker's pick: Arizona
My pick: Arizona
Parker's reasoning is that Arizona is a bigger school. Makes sense to me.

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Utah State (10-2) vs. Toledo (9-3)
Parker's pick: Utah State
My pick: Utah State
Parker's going with Utah State because they're ranked. Makes sense to me.

It's predicted to be 30 degrees in Albuquerque at kick-off and 37 degrees at kick-off in Boise on that hideous blue field. Not sure qualifying for a bowl is all it's cracked up to be.

Great Quote Thursday

Good leaders consider unintended consequences before taking major actions- Thom Rainer

Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

During Monday night football pre-game:
Turner: Did they say Eli Manning is playing tonight?
Me: Yes.
Turner: Will his brother Peyton Manning be there to watch?
Me: Probably not. He'll probably be working on his own job.
Turner: You mean making commercials?

While driving through downtown Atlanta:
Parker: What's that big tent for?
Me: The sign says Cirque Du Soleil
Parker: Circus of L.A.?

Praying before a meal recently:
Turner: And thank You, God, for our house. In Jesus's name, amen.
Me: That's a beautiful prayer Turner.
Turner: Well, without our house, we'd just be walking around in the woods.

Great Quote Thursday

The great threat to our prayer and our meditation on the Word of God is good ministry activity- John Piper

Re:Group Conference Notes: Casting Vision for Groups (Breakout #4)

Last month, several members of our church staff attended the Re:Group Conference hosted by North Point Ministries. I've been sharing some notes from the conference sessions in recent posts.

The fourth breakout session I attended was "Casting Vision for Groups" led by John Ott. Here is some of what he shared:

Three results of a strong vision:
1. Thoughts are clarified.
2. Actions are aligned.
3. Emotions are engaged.

Five things you must do with vision to make it stick:
1. State it simply.
2. Cast it convincingly.
3. Repeat it regularly.
4. Celebrate it systematically.
5. Embrace it personally.

Getting to simple is complex.

Answer the audience's question of "what's in it for me".

Getting the big idea down to a simple statement is difficult.

What you do everyday matters more than what you do every now and then.

Re:Group Conference Notes: Recruiting and Approving Volunteer Leaders (Breakout #3)

Last month, several members of our church staff attended the Re:Group Conference hosted by North Point Ministries. Over the next several posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

The third breakout session I attended was "Recruiting and Approving Volunteer Leaders" led by Bob Hempen:

Establish the filter: the 4 C's:
Character; Competency; Culture; Chemistry

Character problems can cause problems like no other.

There are higher expectations for leaders. Lifestyle matters.

Setting clear expectations at the beginning makes it easier to deal with issues in the future.

Be willing to say "no" to a potential leader. People may be hurt by "no" but they shouldn't be confused. Don't leave people hanging with unknown expectations or no plan.

Remembering Jeremy Frye

It's hard to believe it was four years today that my friend Jeremy Frye passed away following a hiking accident in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. An accomplished hiker, Jeremy was spending the day traversing the mountains and trails he loved so well.

Jeremy (I and many others just called him Frye) grew up with me. For most of his middle school and high school years, I was his Sunday School teacher. When our student choir ministry took summer mission trips, he and I always ended up loading and unloading equipment (Frye would do most anything so he didn't have to sing or "dance"). While he was in college, I hired him to work with me as a recreation assistant (since we lived near each other I offered to let him ride with me on his first day of orientation but when I got to his house he was still asleep). Eventually, we both ended up working at Sevier Heights together.

The last conversation I had with Jeremy was a phone call on Thursday evening that went something along the lines of:
Me: Hey Jeremy, can you make sure the wheelchairs get back in the rotunda after the wedding?
Frye: Sure, I've got a couple more things to get done and then I'll take care of them.
Me: Thanks a bunch. Have a great weekend.
Frye: You too, sir. You have a good evening.

He often called me "sir". Not because he had too. He spoke that way to lots of people. He was just a very well-mannered, likable guy. How many guys in their early 20's come by your house to see your first-born son and then willingly hold your newborn for a picture? Jeremy Frye did.

As I remember Jeremy Frye, I'm reminded of the following and so much more:
•He loved his family
•He smiled all the time
•He loved the game of soccer (especially World Cup), hiking in the mountains and firearms
•Man, could he sweat
•He could prepare two softball fields for play faster than anybody I've ever known
•Everyone liked him; if you didn't like Jeremy Frye, you were the one with the problem
•He would have been a great husband and dad
•He was one of my all-time favorite people (maybe you're not supposed to have favorites, but he was one of mine and he knew it)

On this day in 2008, I had the horrible privilege of being in Jeremy's room with his family and some other close friends as he breathed his last breath on this earth. It was a moment and an event I will never forget. But there was, and is, comfort in knowing that his eternity was secured.

And today is a great day to remember Jeremy Frye.

Re:Group Conference Notes: Developing Leaders Who Lead Well (Breakout #2)

Last month, several members of our church staff attended the Re:Group Conference hosted by North Point Ministries. Over the next several posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

The second breakout session I attended was "Developing Leaders Who Lead Well" led by Justin Elam:

The success of any ministry rises and falls on the quality of leaders.

When "success" and "direction" changes, people don't know what to expect.

Say it clearly. Say it simply. That's transferable.

My role= create environments. God's role= change hearts.

Group life essentials: Promote participation; Cultivate relationships; Provide care

Regular encouragement sustains Groups leaders who do consistent ministry in the trenches.

When leaders recommend new leaders to you, they are telling you they appreciate the way you've treated them.

Re:Group Conference Notes: Connecting Adults Into Groups (Breakout #1)

Last month, several members of our church staff attended the Re:Group Conference hosted by North Point Ministries. Over the next several posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

The first breakout session I attended was "Connecting Adults Into Groups" led by Jenny Boyett:

You can't grow spiritually without growing spiritually.

People with great (or horrible) experiences make great volunteers.

Survey results tell us that chemistry is the biggest factor in groups connecting and continuing. The second most important factor is geography. The third biggest factor is stage of life.

People often identify in a group based on their oldest child's age.

Book Review- '78: The Boston Red Sox, A Historic Game, and a Divided City by Bill Reynolds

Ever pick up a book and get about halfway through and you find yourself with a choice to make? Do you cut bait and stop reading part-way through or do you continue reading in hopes that the book gets better? I faced that dilemma with this book, chose to continue reading and wished I'd stopped reading sooner.

The book claims to focus primarily on the 1978 season of the Boston Red Sox. But the book takes a scattered look at the history of race relations in the city of Boston, the city's lengthy school busing crisis, while interspersing a review of the one-game playoff between the Red Sox and the New York Yankees, a game #163, ultimately won by New York. Reynolds provides a brief biographical sketch of numerous Boston Red Sox players but spends a surprising amount of time providing details on New York Yankees players.

It's as if Reynolds had an interest in writing three books: one on race relations in Boston; one on the Boston Red Sox; and one on the New York Yankees but '78 simply ends up being a rambling mix.

Re:Group Conference Notes- Andy Stanley: Main Session #2

Earlier this month, several members of our church staff attended the Re:Group Conference hosted by North Point Ministries. Over the next several posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Andy Stanley spoke in the second main session. Here is some of what he shared:

You have no idea what God wants to do in and through you. You have no idea what God wants to do in and through your children or grandchildren.

Your greatest investment in the church may be the person you raise or the person you inspire.

Be a student, not a critic.

If your systems in your church are competing against each other, you lose whichever way you go.

When you care for someone, you care for someone.

Re:Group Conference Notes- Andy Stanley: Main Session #1

Earlier this month, several members of our church staff attended the Re:Group Conference hosted by North Point Ministries. Over the next several posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Andy Stanley spoke in the first main session under the session title, "Why I'm A Groups Lifer". Following is some of what he shared:

Groups, if done right, is a great way to introduce people to church instead of always having church introducing people to groups.

"I'm Not a Lifer Because":
I learn so much in small group
I like to connect with new people
I'm expected to participate
I look forward to every Monday night

But consistent deposits over time make a difference. "I'm a Lifer Because":
Group provides a relational first-step for disconnected and new believers or non-believers
It's an environment where Sandra (Stanley's wife) and I can minister together and use our complimentary gifts
I'm faced with a variety of faith journeys that never fail to build my faith
Our children witness first-hand the importance of community
We believe life change happens within the context of relationships. Structured, accountable relationships are powerful.

Great Quote Thursday

There is no substitute for work. Worthwhile results come from hard work and careful planning- John Wooden

So We Had A Conversation

Parker (8) and a friend of his are involved with several other students in an after-school science program at their elementary school. One of the school's great teachers leads the program along with some students from Johnson University.

Recently, during one of their afternoon sessions, the students from Johnson asked Parker and his friend about the good and bad things (they called them apples and onions) they had on their schedules. Parker's friend mentioned that they had Living Christmas Tree (LCT) practice that evening. The Johnson students said they had heard about the LCT, a community outreach event featuring the story of Jesus that our church (www.sevierheights.org) hosts every year, but that they'd never attended.

"So we had a conversation about that", Parker told us that evening. And then he told us that they invited the Johnson students to the event, even offering to get tickets for them. We were proud of the boldness that Parker and his friend showed that day.

Here's The Point: Is there someone you need to have a conversation with? Something you need to share with someone? Maybe you need to share the story of Jesus with a family member or coworker. And you know in your heart it's the right thing to do. Be bold. Have a conversation.

He's My Partner

Last Sunday night, Turner (5) was racing around our house looking for his "paper" from his 11:00 Bible Fellowship class at our church. He asked us if we'd seen it. He brings home several things each Sunday and Tonya had seen a paper with Turner's friend Ben's name on it earlier in the day.

"Have you looked in your room?", Tonya asked him. "Yes, but I will again", Turner replied.

"Is it in the laundry room?", we asked. "I didn't see it", he said.

This type of search is nothing new to us. Trying to find the boys stuff is common in our house. They move stuff all the time, never to the same place (unfortunately, they get that from me).

After a few minutes of searching, Tonya found the paper Turner was looking for. Though it had Ben's name across the top, it was actually Turner's paper as he happily explained.

"No, that's it. That's my paper", Turner answered. "Those are things to pray about for Ben". Turner happily showed me the list with all the earnestness a friend could express, "We're partners". And then, as tears welled up in my eyes, I realized my five year old son has a prayer partner. My five year old son has a prayer partner (that was worth writing again).  That makes my heart smile.

So pretty consistently since that Sunday, we've prayed for Ben's dog, his brothers, his Nana and his Mom. Because that's what partners do.

The Barnabas Principle

One of my favorite men in the Bible is Barnabas. He was known as an encourager. In the book of Acts (4:36), we're told his name even means "Son of Encouragement". Throughout the New Testament, Barnabas is seen financially supporting the ministry of the apostles (Acts 4); was one of the first to support Saul following his conversion (Acts 9); and is an early missionary to other cities (Acts 11 and following).

As an outpouring of his faith in Jesus Christ, Barnabas is consistently seen serving, doing good works and helping others. He is a supporter, and true to his name, an encourager. He saw what could be, how things could be better, and he did his part to see those things come to fruition. That is the type of man I want to be. That is the type of man we are trying to teach our sons to become.

Recently, I had the opportunity to take my son Parker (8) to the Tennessee vs. Missouri football game. The outcome was a disappointing overtime loss, dropping the Vols overall won/loss record to 4-6. As we exited the stadium, the mood was entirely negative, save for a few rowdy Mizzou fans. Some people walked out quietly in disbelief that the season had turned out this poorly. Others were angry and talking loudly (some using less than appropriate language). Others just seemed disappointed.

In the midst of the crowd, as we circled the ramps leading out of the stadium, Parker looked up at me and quietly said, "Hey, you know what, if we win the next two games, we'll be bowl eligible". In that moment, I realized we're raising a Barnabas.

Granted, Parker didn't understand the ramifications of a what a losing football program means at UT. Losing means financial loss. Losing means a frustrated fan base. Losing means more painful change. But he did know that if you win the next two games, you qualify to keep playing. And that's a good thing.

Here's The Point: All too often we look at a situation and see only negatives. We see pain and hurt and we get frustrated. People are ready to give up on a marriage, on their education, on a family member.

We'd do well to remember that with just two more wins, we'd be bowl eligible. And to follow the Barnabas principle.

More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

After completing some "chores" for Granna to earn some change to help fill his "Because...We Love Jesus" heart (actually a small bank shaped like a heart) for our church's stewardship campaign:
Granna: What are you going to do with this money?
Turner: I'm going to give it to Jesus so He can buy some stuff.
We reminded Turner that everything already belongs to God. He just lets us use stuff.

Following a recent haircut for Parker:
Me: I like your haircut.
Parker: Granna says I have a double crown.
Me: Really?
Parker: Do you have a double crown?
Me: I don't know.
Parker: Let me see. Hold your head down.
Me: Do I?
Parker: I don't know. You might if you had...(as he leaves his thought uncompleted)
Me: You mean I might if I had hair.
Parker: Yeah. But I didn't want to say that.

Great Quote Thursday

People need to be reminded more than instructed- C. S. Lewis

Great Quote Thursday

Nobody gets anything done unless they’re a little nutty, unless they have great energy and great enthusiasm- Bill Self, University of Kansas Basketball Coach

You Lost Me One-Day Workshop

I recently attended a one-day seminar in which David Kinnaman, President of the Barna Group, shared information from his book, You Lost Me. The seminar, and the book, focus on reaching the millennial (20's and 30's) generation, who in many cases are leaving the church and rethinking faith. Following is some of what Kinnaman shared:

The millennial generation is a generation with access to communication but a generation without wisdom.

The best Biblical example for the complexity of our times are the exiles in Babylon, believers living "in but not of" the culture.

The Gospel should be as simple as possible but not any simpler.

If we think college is leading people from faith, then we've not done a good enough job preparing them for college.

The Gospel does not give us an excuse to exclude demographics that are inconvenient for the church.

This generation is not just "sort of" different....our culture is discontinuously different.

All our efforts must point to Jesus. 

Great Quote Thursday

Beyond parents, the next most important role in the life of a young believer is another believer who is not paid to be your friend- David Kinnaman, referring to the importance of peer friendships in addition to the relationships built by student ministry leaders

Great Quote Thursday

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together- attributed to multiple sources

Catalyst Conference- Simon Sinek

Earlier this month, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. In recent posts, I've been sharing some of my notes from Catalyst.

Simon Sinek teaches graduate level strategic communications at Columbia University and is the author of Start With Why. Here is some of what Sinek shared:

Individuals can manipulate or inspire; be a leader or an authority.

Why is the purpose, not the result.

People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do what you do.

Leaders need: priority of why; discipline of how; consistency of what.

Authenticity matters. You must actually believe the things you say and do.

Trust and reliability are different.

Surround yourself with people who believe what you believe.

Leaders put thoughts and ideas into words that inspire and move people.

Leaders can sometimes see things that others can't. But visionaries and communicators are not necessarily leaders.

Leaders must have a sense of direction and point the way. Walk in the right direction, not in circles.

It's better to disappoint with the truth than to please with a lie.

Catalyst Conference- Matt Chandler

Earlier this month, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Matt Chandler serves as the Lead Pastor of Teaching at The Village Church in the Dallas area. Here are some notes from his session:

As a child of God, my inheritance is:

1. God Himself
All I've got is Him, all I need is Him
Your position is not better than Jesus

2. Resurrected, imperishable body
A body to worship that won't grow weary

3. The world
God will reach the nations, will I be involved?

4. Suffering and rejection

Determine success by what God calls a touchdown, not what others call a touchdown.

Don't give Jesus a makeover. If you contextualize to where no one is offended, you're not preaching the Gospel.

God's promise is not related to my circumstances.

Be faithful where you are.

Don't find value outside of you. Find value by Who is inside of you.

Catalyst Conference- Craig Groeschel

Earlier this month, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Craig Groeschel is the Founding and Senior Pastor of LifeChurch.tv.  He shared from Acts 20 and encouraged his listeners to prepare for:

1. The Spirit's Prompting-
They were compelled by the Spirit
When the Spirit speaks, pay attention

2. Certain Uncertainty-
Take the step of faith without knowing all the details
If you're not leading with a little uncertainty every now and then, you're not leading by faith

3. Predictable Resistance-
If you are not ready to face opposition for your obedience to God, you are not ready to be used by God
If you blame yourself for the declines, you may take credit for the increases
Anything that's new and effective will be met with resistance

4. Uncommon Clarity-
For this I was created

God has to work in you before He can work through you.

Whenever you think you're good at something, you're full of pride.

Catalyst Conference- Jon Acuff

Earlier this month, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Jon Acuff is a blogger and the author of Stuff Christians Like and Quitter. Here are some notes from his session:

Don't confuse making with achieving.

Remember who you are. You are not the things you make.

Remember Who God is. God will not be handcuffed by your failures or unleashed by your successes.

What if we (the church) celebrated so loudly that people began to ask questions.

Fame is the God of all creation knowing my name.

Catalyst Conference- Christine Caine

Last week, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Christine Caine is the Founder of the A21 Campaign. Her session on preparing the next generation was one of the highlights of the conference for me. This is some of what she shared from Hebrews 2 and Judges 2:7-10:

We are in the exchange zone period in the life of the church. It doesn't matter who's fastest or best rather that we stay in our lane and pass the baton well.

If you forget the ones who came before you, you'll likely forget the ones coming after you.

As a discipler, you will make what you are.

Embrace the place where God has placed you.

Talent may open the door but character will keep you there.

Don't confuse talent and anointing.

It's better to be marked by God than marketed by man.

Catalyst Conference- Mark Burnett

Last week, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Mark Burnett is the Executive Producer of popular TV shows such as Survivor, The Voice and Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader? A Christ- follower, Burnett and his wife Roma Downey, are currently producing a ten-hour docudrama series on The Bible which will air on the History Channel in Spring 2013.

He spoke about overcoming limitations and storytelling:

"NO" means Next Opportunity

If you have to be certain, you'll never do anything.

Announce the parade; start the parade; be the parade, the parade will grow.

In the midst of uncertainty, have faith and press forward.

In storytelling, authenticity is paramount. 

Catalyst Conference- Perry Noble

Last week, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Perry Noble is the Senior Pastor of NewSpring Church in Anderson, South Carolina. He shared a session on leadership from the life of David:

There is no progress with the process. Rather than be discouraged, see it as God developing you. We don't talk about the hours and hours David spent practicing with the sling and stone.

Anointing is not a reason to avoid the process of God.

If you are gifted, use your gifts and people will know.

(To those serving in vocational ministry): We get paid to do what people traditionally have died to do.

David never dishonored Saul at any time.

If He brought you to it, He'll bring you through it.

Catalyst Conference- Bryan Stevenson

Last week, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Bryan Stevenson is the Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Alabama. Here is some of what he shared:

The opposite of poverty is not wealth but justice.

There is power in identity.

Know why you are doing what you are doing.

Pray not for comfort and convenience but courage.

Catalyst Conference- Andy Stanley

Last week, several members of our church staff attended the Catalyst Conference in Duluth, GA. Over the next several posts, I'll share some of my notes from Catalyst.

Andy Stanley is the Senior Pastor of North Point Ministries. He opened this year's conference as is the tradition. Here is some of what he shared:

Information and insight alone do not make a leader.

How leaders are made:
Unexpected opportunity
Unavoidable adversity
Unquestionable calling
The response to these makes a leader. Leaders are made one response at a time.

Maybe the most important lesson to learn: It's not what you do but who watches you do what you do.

Actions speak louder than words but sometimes they echo.

Influence is more important than title or position.

God may choose to take you through a place where you feel you're totally unprepared.

It's better to make a difference than to make a point.

God does more through adversity to make us and shape us than at any other time.

Great Quote Thursday

If you have a chance to accomplish something that will make things better for people coming behind you, and you don't do that, you're wasting your time on this earth- Roberto Clemente

NewSpring Leadership Conference- Jud Wilhite

Recently, several members of our church staff attended the NewSpring Leadership Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. In several recent posts, I've been sharing some notes from the conference sessions.

Jud Wilhite is the Senior Pastor of Central Christian Church in Las Vegas, Nevada. He spoke from Ecclesiastes 3:1-11.

Remember tough seasons are temporary. In tough seasons, "this too shall pass". Be faithful in it.

Manage the crazy seasons intentionally. Not as a complaint but as a hard acceptance of reality. Create a "stop doing list". Focus on spiritual things that give strength.

Face every season in God's rest. We're a part of the story even though we may never know the end of the story.

NewSpring Leadership Conference- Matt Chandler

Recently, several members of our church staff attended the NewSpring Leadership Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. In several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Matt Chandler is the Lead Pastor of Teaching at The Village Church in Flower Mound, TX.

Nobody brags about how big we are when are when God is there.

What attracts the special presence of God:
Personal holiness (Psalm 51: 10-12; Acts 3:19, 20)
Praise to God (Psalm 95: 1,2; Psalm 100:2)

What repels the special presence of God:
Pride (Psalm 138:6)
Complacency; indifference

NewSpring Leadership Conference- Andy Stanley

Recently, several members of our church staff attended the NewSpring Leadership Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. In several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Andy Stanley is the Founding Pastor of North Point Ministries in Alpharetta, GA. Stanley's session was titled, "Five Guidelines for Preaching with Unchurched People in the Room".

1. Let them know you know they're there and that you're happy about it

2. Choose a passage of Scripture and stay there. Make it so interesting that they will go home and read it again. Make it so clear that when they read it, they understand it and keep reading. Bring your energy to the text and uncover the energy in the text. Don't skimp on the text; we want people to fall in love with the Author of the text. Slow down, assume nothing.

3. Give them permission not to believe or obey (let the Holy Spirit work). When you give unchurched people an out, they respond by leaning in.

4. Avoid the phrase "the Bible says". Cite authors. Use the phrase "New Testament marriage, not Biblical marriage".

5. Acknowledge the odd as odd. Tie stories back to Jesus. The foundation of our faith is the resurrection of Jesus. Remove every obstacle except the offense of the cross.

NewSpring Leadership Conference- Steven Furtick

Recently, several members of our church staff attended the NewSpring Leadership Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. In several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Steven Furtick is the Founding Pastor of Elevation Church with multiple locations around Charlotte, NC. He spoke from I Kings 18 and 19 on Elijah and Elisha: "What Are You Doing Here?"

Maybe Elijah wasn't running for his life but from his life- v. 19: 3,4

If you are running from your life:
1. Get up and eat- God will provide but we must get up and eat- v. 19: 5-7
2. Go out and stand- God whispers because He's close- v. 19: 12, 13
3. Get back to work- God was continuing His plan- v. 19: 16, 19

Do stuff and then reach back and pull people forward to do stuff.

NewSpring Leadership Conference- Craig Groeschel

Recently, several members of our church staff attended the NewSpring Leadership Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. In several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Craig Groeschel is the Founding and Senior Pastor of LifeChurch in Edmond, Oklahoma. He spoke on the topic of "An Effective Leader's Constant Companion: Pain".

Avoid stupid pain. Step into purposeful pain.

Sometimes the difference in where I am and where God wants me to be is the pain I don't want to go through.

If you're not hurting, you're not leading. Pain is a part of leadership.

Becoming obsessed with what people think about you is the quickest way to forget what God thinks about you.

I can't please everyone but I can please God.

Do what's right and trust God with the results.

Three types of pain:
Pain of unjustified rejection and criticism
Pain of hard decisions
Pain of pruning

God will often break people privately before He uses them publicly.

Don't blame yourself for the decline because in the future you may take credit for the success.

You have everything in you to do what God has called you to do.

NewSpring Leadership Conference- Perry Noble

Recently, several members of our church staff attended the NewSpring Leadership Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. In several upcoming posts, I will share some notes from the conference sessions.

Perry Noble is the Senior Pastor of NewSpring Church. The text he spoke from was Mark 9 and he shared two things he was praying for himself and his leadership.

#1- That Jesus will enable him to continually renew his focus and love for Him

If you fall in love with Jesus, you fall in love with people.

In Scripture, people ran to Jesus, not from Him- v. 15.

As our love for Jesus increases, our love for hurting people increases.

Meaningless arguments distract us from hurting people- v. 14, 17, 18

#2- That Jesus will give him an increasing measure of faith

People like to follow a leader who talks about how great things will be as opposed to how great things were

Great Quote Thursday

Truth is incontrovertible, malice may attack it and ignorance may deride it, but, in the end, there it is- Winston Churchill

Vision and Values- Part 2

This continues a series of posts on a current teaching series called Vision and Values that I am leading through in Bible Fellowship groups on Sunday mornings. In this series, we look at Vision (what God wants for us) and Values (4 foundational values our church lives by). We continue by looking at Vision.

In the previous post, we saw that God's vision for us is to know Him. Once we identify with Him, His vision for us is that we be like Him.

When Paul writes to the Colossian church in Colossians 3, he reminds them that because of Christ's sacrifice, they've been changed (v.1); should be heavenly-minded (v.2); are eternally secure (v.3); and should look forward to Christ's return (v.4). And though redeemed, they will still struggle with earthly, sinful matters (v.5-10).

As a result, Paul writes that followers of Christ should be compassionate, kind, humble, gentle, patient and forgiving (v.12-13). But more than these, loving (v.14). In addition, Christ followers are to be peaceful and thankful (v.15).

The word of Christ is to be the foundation of all the actions of the believer (v. 16). So much so that "whatever you do" (v.17), you should do in His name, as He would.

God's vision for us is that we know Christ. And once we know Him, He desires that we be Christlike and represent Him well.

Vision and Values

This begins a series of posts on a current teaching series called Vision and Values that I am leading through in Bible Fellowship groups on Sunday mornings. In this series, we'll look at Vision (what God wants for us) and Values (4 foundational values our church lives by). We start by looking at Vision.

What did you want to be when you grew up? What was your vision of the future?  When I was young, I wanted to be a sports broadcaster. You get to go to all the big games, don't have to pay to get in and get great seats. Back then, I would watch all the games I could and would study my football and baseball cards in detail, learning all the stats and creating team lineups and play formations. Now that I'm older, I know that was not God's plan for me. He had a better plan.

As adults, we no longer deal with the "what will you be when you grow up question" but we still wonder what's next in our lives. The big question now is not what you do, but who you are in Christ.

What is His vision for your life? What does God want you to be like? In Colossians 2, the apostle Paul shared some principles with the church at Colosse, helping them see what God longed for for them. 

Paul had never met many of the people in the Colossian church. Yet he longed for God's vision, God's best, for them. Paul's prayer was that they would be:
Encouraged in heart;
United in love;
Have the full riches of complete understanding; and
Know the mystery of God, namely, Christ (v.2).
In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (v.3).

All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. All. Jesus is all you need.

God's vision for your life is for you to know Christ. He is God revealed.

Fun on Friday

Tonight, our family attended our first-ever University of Tennessee Lady Vols Soccer match. We had tried to get to Regal Soccer Stadium for a couple of years but our schedule just never seemed to work out. But after tonight, I know we plan to go again. The fan experience was outstanding, family-friendly and a great value.

First, our boys had earned free admission by participating in the Knox County Library System's summer reading program. Tonya and I donated a couple of school supplies each for our own free admission. Plus, parking was just outside the stadium and was also free.

Being 2 of the first 250 kids in the gate, both of our boys received a collapsible UT water bottle. Next, there was a free kids' carnival area with inflatables. At 30 minutes prior to the start of the game, UT's Coach Brian Pensky held a "Chalk Talk" open to anyone wishing to attend in which he briefly previewed tonight's match.

But the highlight of the night for Turner was meeting and having his photo made with Smokey. Or as he put it, "We tried to meet him at basketball games but we got to at a soccer game".

It was an experience we would recommend for families. It was fun on Friday.

Great Quote Thursday

You were being the more gracious the less You would allow anything that was not You to grow sweet to me- Augustine on coming to faith in Christ

Books I'm Reading

I was recently asked about the types of books I like to read. I'm usually reading a combination of ministry-related books along with some history, biography and sports books. Here's what I'm currently working through:

Clemente: The Passion and Grace of Baseball' Last Hero- David Maraniss
Lead Like Ike: Ten Business Strategies from the CEO of D-Day- Geoff Loftus
Overcoming Your Shadow Mission- John Ortberg
Transformational Discipleship: How People Really Grow- Eric Geiger, Michael Kelley, Philip Nation

Great Quote Thursday

Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Connect Through Difficulties

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns offer some practical wisdom for building a long marriage (page 228):

A Man is Wise to Listen to His Wife:
1. When she says there is a problem in the marriage.
2. When she has an evaluation.
3. When she expresses her needs and feelings.
4. When she expresses a desire for certain changes.

And some practical take-aways (pages 229, 230):
1. The submission of a wife is not a posture of surrender but an attitude of trust.
2. There's no such thing as a life of faith without problems.
3. How we handle our problems will influence our children.
4. Our days are known.

Connect Series: Dealing with Difficulties

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Abraham and Sarah who learned to connect in their marriage in the midst of difficult circumstances.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Abraham and Sarah:

How they met? We don't know.

What was she like? Sarah's name means "princess". She trusted her husband's leadership (I Peter 3).

What was he like? Abraham trusted the Lord (Genesis 12:1-4; Genesis 17:1-6).

What was their issue? Infertility. As a result, Sarah talked Abraham into conceiving a child, an heir, with her maid Hagar (Genesis 16: 1-4). Not surprisingly, this only caused trouble (Genesis 21: 8-21). For many people. For all of history. 

How'd it end? Though Abraham and Sarah made mistakes, they were noted for their lifelong faithfulness to God by the writer of the book of Hebrews (Hebrews 11: 8-12) in what is sometimes referred to as the "hall of fame of faith".

Connect Series: Connect by Picking Up the Pieces (Part 3)

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of David and Bathsheba who learned to pick up the pieces of their lives. In this post, we'll look at what the punishment David and Bathsheba faced. And the way God used their lives, and their future, for His glory.

David faced a four-fold punishment as outlined by the prophet Nathan in II Samuel 12:
1. The "sword shall never depart from you"- v. 10
David's sons Amnon (II Samuel 13) and Absalom (II Samuel 18) would both eventually die.

2. "I will raise up adversity against you from your own house"- v. 11
David's son Amnon sexually assaulted David's daughter Tamar (II Samuel 13).

3. "I will take your wives before your eyes"- v. 11
David's son Absalom was later involved sexually with some of David's other wives (II Samuel 16)

4. "The child also who is born to you"- v. 14
The child who was to be born to David and Bathsheba would die (II Samuel 12).

How'd it end? Bathsheba became David's last and most honored wife. David and Bathsheba had additional children. She was a good mother to Solomon, a future son, later helping him protect his throne. Solomon's family line extends to Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus (Matthew 1). Another future son was Nathan. His family line extends to Mary, the mother of Jesus (Luke 3).

From the midst of horrendous sin and circumstances, God brought forth good.

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns offer some ways in which couples can pick up the pieces and move forward (page 136, 139):
Confess it- Seek God's forgiveness
Forsake it- Forgive each other
Leave it in the past- Forgive yourself

And some final thoughts (page 139, 140):
Both David and Bathsheba knew better.
Their sin wasn't just against their marriage partner- it was against God.
It's possible to do right, even after a bad beginning.
Outward circumstances are not enough to keep a person from giving into temptation.

Book Review: Enemies of the Heart by Andy Stanley

Andy Stanley helps the reader simplify a majority of issues in life with his book Enemies of the Heart: Breaking Free from the Four Emotions That Control You. He narrows the problems that trouble individuals down to four main issues: guilt, anger, greed and jealousy.

Stanley characterizes each of "enemies of the heart" as an issue of a debt being owed:
Guilt: I Owe You
Anger: You Owe Me
Greed: I Owe Me
Jealousy: God Owes Me
With each "enemy" Stanley lists, he also compiles a section for confronting each "enemy".

Stanley is known as a great communicator, and maybe that is more apparent in his speaking than in his writing, but I found this passage to be very impactful. From page 148 in a chapter titled, "The Power of Generosity":

"In the past, when you didn't have enough, were you hesitant to question God about your lack? You probably didn't hesitate at all. You let Him know immediately that you were in need. And if you're like me, you let Him know that you expected Him to provide for you. And when He came through, what did you do? You thanked Him. You may even have shared your story with a few folks. So now that you are on the other side, with more than enough, why don't you question God about that?"

This book took me a while to get through. It was a good read but not a book that captivated my attention to the point that I read it rapidly.

Great Quote Thursday

Disciples cannot be mass-produced. Disciples are handmade, one relationship at a time- David Kinnaman (You Lost Me, page 13).

You Can't Measure Heart

Today was a big day for our family. Our youngest son, Turner, started kindergarten.  No big deal you say. A rite of passage for all children. But God has been gracious to Turner and, for us, today was so much more.

See, when Turner was born, he had a double hernia that required surgery when he was 13 weeks old. But by the grace of God, he's overcome that.

Turner could not say "Mama" or "Daddy" until he was almost 2 years old. His speech development was significantly delayed. But after almost 3 years of speech therapy, both in private sessions and at our elementary school, by the grace of God, he's overcome that.

When Turner was two and a half, he was diagnosed with Legg-Perthes Disease, meaning he had developed a fracture to his femur due to an unexplained temporary loss of blood flow to that area. But with physical therapy and periodic monitoring, by the grace of God, he's overcome that.

Last fall, just as he was learning to write, Turner broke his right arm in an accident at a local bounce house. He wrote left-handed for a little while. But now he's quite the right-hander. Writes fairly well now. And, though that was a short-term setback at a crucial period of development, by the grace of God, he's overcome that.

Here's The Point: God has been gracious to Turner. He's not frail or weak. In fact, he's healthy and solid and strong, powerfully strong. He plays soccer and is a fast runner.  He speaks now at his grade level and currently no longer qualifies for speech therapy. And he's starting kindergarten on-time. On-time.

Because you can't measure heart. And Turner has a great big beautiful heart.

Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

Parker: Daddy, did they have electricity when you were born?
Me: Yes, it was developed in the mid-1960's so it was really working well by the time I was born.

At lunch one day this week:
Turner: What is that brown stuff that you can put marshmallows in?
Tonya: Hot chocolate?
Turner: Yea, that's it. Can I have some?
Tonya: Not when it's 85 degrees.

While watching some highlights of a recent baseball game:
Parker: What happened in this game?
Me: The pitcher was using an illegal substance and got ejected from the game.
Parker: What's an illegal substance?
Me: Have you ever heard of a spitball pitcher?
Parker: You mean like in the dead ball era?
Me: Um, yea.

At lunch one day this week:
Turner: You know what would be cool?
Me: What's that?
Turner: If they built an aquarium and a church in the same building.
Me: What do you mean?
Turner: So if people had time at church they could just go through the aquarium.

Great Quote Thursday

Over and over the Bible speaks of confession, not in terms of conscience relief, but in terms of life change. Never is confession offered as a substitute for repentance. It's but a first step toward repentance- Andy Stanley (Enemies of the Heart, page 99).

Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

While watching gymnastics (pommel horse competition) during the London Olympics-
Turner: The easier way would be for them to just sit on there.

While watching gymnastics (floor exercise competition) during the London Olympics-
Turner: That's easy. There's nothing on the floor and they're just running around and dancing.

While riding a boogie board in the ocean on a recent vacation-
Parker: Is there a boogie board competition at the Olympics?

While playing miniature golf one evening while on vacation-
Parker: Yes! That's a hole-in-one....on my second try.

Great Quote Thursday

You don't win a campaign in one battle. You win a campaign by sticking ever lastingly at it, with the kind of attitude that is the attitude of a victor- Dwight Eisenhower

Book Review: Grant by Mitchell Yockelson

Over the course of the past several years, I have become quite interested in the life and Presidency of Ulysses S. Grant. When this new biography by Mitchell Yockelson became available from Thomas Nelson, I quickly requested it.

This brief biography of Grant is quite readable and provides a broad sketch of Grant's life. However, it is so short that it neglects to cover many details of Grant's life. There is little information about Grant's marriage to his wife Julia or about his children or the type of father Grant was. It gives only slight treatment to Grant's life after the Civil War, to Grant's Presidency or his post-Presidency years.

It does go into considerable detail with regard to various battles during the Civil War but much of the information on the war is generic in nature and not specific, not detailed, with specifics regarding Grant's involvement.

If you know little about Grant's life, this book might suffice in providing a basis for future interest. However, there is a lack of depth to the book that left me wanting more.

Great Quote Thursday

Circumstances always did shape my course different from my plans- Ulysses Grant

Connect Series: Connect by Picking Up the Pieces (Part 2)

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of David and Bathsheba who learned to pick up the pieces of their lives. In this post, we'll look at what brought David's sin to light as well as David's response.

God was displeased by what David had done (II Samuel 11:27). As a result, He sends the prophet Nathan to confront King David's sin (II Samuel 12:1-15). Nathan shares with the king a story of the abuse of a poor man by a wealthy man who stole the poor man's prize possession and took and used it for himself. King David, incensed at the mistreatment of the poor man declares that the wealthy man deserves to die (v. 5). Comparing the story to what occurred between David and Uriah and Bathsheba, Nathan responds to David with some of the most chilling words in all of Scripture, "You are the man!" (v. 6).

Only when David's sin was confronted did he truly confess all that he had done. David was truly sorrowful for his actions (read Psalm 51- "against You, You only, have I sinned"- v. 4) and made changes in his life that would be his pattern for following God for the rest of his days.

But there was still a period of discipline, of punishment, of consequences that David would have to walk through. It would be four-fold and it would be horrific.

In the next post, we will look at the how David (and Bathsheba) picked up the pieces of the lives and how God would ultimately use their story, their legacy, for His glory.    

Connect Series: Connect by Picking Up the Pieces (Part 1)

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of David and Bathsheba who learned to pick up the pieces of their lives.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on David and Bathsheba:

How they met? As King of Israel, David had responsibilities as the nation's military leader. One spring, he neglected those duties and stayed back at the palace. One evening, after resting away the day, David went for a walk on the roof. From there, he saw Bathsheba bathing. He asked his aides about her and soon sent messengers to bring her to the palace.

What was she like? The Bible says Bathsheba was "beautiful" (II Samuel 11:2). Beyond that, we don't know much about her early life. We do know, however, that she was married to an honorable man, Uriah (II Samuel 11:6-13).

What was he like? This was King David. Goliath killer. Harpist. Shepherd. Warrior. Leader of all Israel who had access to everything he wanted or needed. And he got what he wanted (II Samuel 11:4). It's interesting that just two chapters earlier in II Samuel 9, we see a kind, caring, compassionate king.

What was their issue? There were multiple issues: marital infidelity, murder, a cover-up attempt. Ultimately, it was a matter of David's sin before God.

In the next post, we'll look at what brought David and Bathsheba's sin to light.

What Tonya's Trip to Haiti Has Taught Me

Tonya has been on a mission trip serving with One Vision International at its orphanage in Haiti. She gets back tonight. Oh my, we will be glad to have her back home with us! Really looking forward to hearing stories of what God has taught and shown her over the past few days. But I've learned some things over the past few days as well:

That keeping two boys busy is work: Since Thursday, we've been to the zoo, to a local gymnastics center, to Parker's baseball game, to some errand running and some shopping. We've played some board games and done some crafts. Have they watched more TV and played more Wii than usual? Yes. Will they be okay long-term? Yes.

That managing by yourself is harder: There's simply no down time. Every meal and every thing (and person) to be cleaned depends on me. In just my limited time with Tonya being in Haiti, I've developed a deepened respect for single parents. For me, I know there's a time when Tonya gets back. Keeping up this pace with a target out there in the not-too-distant future is helpful. Single parents don't have that. I don't know how they do it all. I respect them.

That people will offer to help a Dad out: I've had many offers to help with the boys (with some limited help from my Mom, we've been okay). One couple invited us over to their house for dinner (we accepted). Another couple offered to bring us a meal. Apparently, when I'm out of town, Tonya does not receive offers of help like I have. She must seem more capable of managing everything because she's a Mom. Or maybe it's just that I looked more desperate.

But Here's The Point, the most important thing I learned....

That I have more to offer: I work hard. Work full-time plus. Try to be a good husband and Dad. Coach a couple of my sons' teams. Serve as a counselor and mentor. Try to read as much as possible. Maintain a semi-regular blog. But I've learned this week that I can do more. Not that I'm Superman. And not that I could keep up this pace indefinitely. But I've learned with proper planning, I can accomplish more. Because I've had to this week. And we've gotten everything done that we needed to.

I'm guessing it's the same way for you. You think your schedule is busy, that you're already maxed-out. And truth be told, you are busy. You're involved at home with your spouse and children. With household chores. You already volunteer at church or in the community, or both. Work is busy.

But most of us probably have more to offer.

Fun On Friday: More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun conversations in our home. Here are some more:

While eating lunch together yesterday-
Turner: A cheeseburger and some chocolate milk at McDonald's make some nice ingredients for a great day with my Daddy.

While visiting the facilities at a local Christian bookstore-
Parker: This is a second-class restroom. On a scale of 1-5, I'd give it a 3.

At dinner recently-
Turner: Is this catfish made out of a cat?

While praying as a family before Tonya left on a mission trip with One Vision International-
Parker: And dear Lord, please don't let Mommy's plane crash into the ocean on her way to Haiti.

Great Quote Thursday

When a career is truly shared, a family never feels as if it has to compete- Coach Mike Krzyzewski on putting family ahead of career and keeping one's career in perspective

Connect by Developing Companionship

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns offer some characteristics of a long marriage (page 188):

Companionship: they prefer one another to all others
Calmness: they don't lose control of their emotions
Contentment: they accept and trust God's will
Commitment: their hearts are united, even when their minds aren't

And some ways to develop companionship (page 196):
By learning to be comfortable in an uncomfortable world
By accepting the unexpected as a call to faith
By embracing the future
By letting your children stand on your shoulders to reach higher

Connect Series: Connect Through Companionship

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Zacharias and Elizabeth who developed a marriage based on love and companionship.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Zacharias and Elizabeth:

How they met? We don't know.

What was she like? We know that Elizabeth was a descendant of priests (Luke 1:5); was a righteous person (Luke 1:6); was older (Luke 1:7, 18); likeable (Luke 1:58); and was supportive of Zacharias (Luke 1:59-63).

What was he like? Zacharias was a priest (Luke 1:5); was righteous (Luke 1:6); older (Luke 1:7, 18); a man of prayer (Luke 1:13a); and was obedient to God (Luke 1:13b; 62, 63).

What was their issue? They were childless (Luke 1:7).

How'd it end? Zacharias and Elizabeth were faithful to God and faithful to one another and God blessed them (Luke 1:8-17; 66b; 80a).

Book Review: Lopez Lomong's Running For My Life

An amazing story of the grace of God and of personal courage, United States Olympian Lopez Lomong shares his story in his new book, Running for My Life.

Once in a great while I read a book that is so interesting that I read it through very quickly. With Running for My Life, that was the case. Whereas I thought I would enjoy reading about Lomong's Olympic experience, I found myself captivated by the details of his capture by, and escape from, Sudanese rebels; his experiences in the refugee camp; his flight to the United States (not eating in-flight meals because he knew he had no money); to his assimilation in the Syracuse, NY area after being adopted by loving parents and how they learned Lomong was a runner.

But the story doesn't end there. And not at the 2008 Beijing Olympics either where Lomong served as the flag-bearer for the delegation from the United States. Lomong has graduated from college, revisited his homeland and been reunited with his family in Sudan and has brought his brothers to the United States following their own adoption. He's even started a foundation, 4SouthSudan, to benefit his native homeland.

Having young sons myself who are about the age Lomong was when he was abducted as well as having a good friend who last year adopted two sons from Ethiopia, this book was especially powerful. This is much more than a story about an Olympic track and field athlete.

I highly recommend Running for My Life and I'll be rooting for Lopez Lomong in the Summer Olympics in London.

Fun on Friday: More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 5, means we have lots of fun discussions in our home. Here are some more:

Parker: "If I get another fish for Christmas..."
Me: "You're not getting another fish for Christmas".
Parker: "But if I did, I'd name this one Kevin Durant".
Me: "You're not getting another fish for Christmas".

Turner: "Hey, my kindergarten shot just fell off. I mean my kindergarten shot band-aid just fell off".

Turner: "I want to play this guitar by myself. I have really good talent".

Turner is 5!!!

My younger son, Turner, turns 5 years old today.  It's amazing how quickly the past five joy-filled years have raced by.

Turner brings joy wherever he goes. Maybe with a hug. Maybe with a Turnerism. Maybe with a "Hey Daddy, I've got a question". You never really have to question what he's thinking about because he'll say pretty much whatever it is that's on his mind. We'll probably need to work on that later but for now it's fun.

Happy 5th Birthday Turner. You make my heart smile. Daddy loves you. Always and forever.

The Proverbs 31 Man

Much is written about the Proverbs 31 woman. There are Proverbs 31 ministries and books. Even decorative bags. The bar to be a "Proverbs 31 Woman" is set pretty high.

I'm glad there's not a Proverbs 32 for men. I'd never make the cut. But there are some principles for men and husbands outlined in Proverbs 31 that we men would do well to follow:

A Proverbs 31 Man is:
1. A Man of Noble Character (v. 10)
The Proverbs 31 man lives a life of noble character. Think about it, a Proverbs 31 woman ("virtuous wife") deserves a husband of noble character, a man of virtue.

Tonya and I recently attended a wedding and when the minister had the young couple turn to the audience to introduce them as husband and wife, my first thought was "That couple has done it the right way". Why? Because each of them, both husband and wife, are people of noble character, of virtue.

Several years from now, our sons will likely marry. Our prayer is that they will each marry a woman of noble character. But we are also praying that our sons will be men of noble character, men of virtue.

2. A Man Who Trusts His Wife (v. 11)
The Proverbs 31 man trusts his wife and lives a life his wife can trust.
Trust builds goodwill; goodwill leads to closeness.
Where there is trust, there is peace.

3. A Man Who Leads (v. 23)
The Proverbs 31 man is "respected" at the city gate. That means he was looked to as a leader in the community. Even more than being a leader in the public forum, a man must lead his wife and children at home. It's the biblical model of servant-leadership (Ephesians 5:25) for the family.

4. A Man of Wisdom (v. 23)
The Proverbs 31 man in v. 23 took "his seat among the elders". He was a man of wisdom. A man who was looked to for counsel. He was a sounding board for those seeking input and advice.

We often think that one must be older to be an elder. That's not necessarily always the case. A young man whose seeks Godly wisdom can develop a reputation for consistent, well-thought out decision making. Being considered an elder is an earned position, not simply based on one's age.

5. A Man of Blessing (v. 28)
The Proverbs 31 man recognizes the contributions of his wife and appreciates her for who she is and all that she does.

6. A Man of Encouragement (v. 28, 29)
The Proverbs 31 man tells his wife "You're the best", not for anything she's done for him or for anything he wants from her. He encourages her, "praises her", because of who she is.

Connecting by Loving Through Differences

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns offer some statements to help couples learn to love each other through their differences (page 153, 154 and 162):

A loving relationship with parents and siblings prepares one for a happy marriage.
An unhappy childhood can be overcome.
Developing kindness prepares one for marriage.
Developing kindness and love begins with the Lord.
Obstacles can be overcome by God's grace.
God's unconditional love is the basis for a happy marriage.

Connect Series: Loving Through Differences

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Boaz and Ruth, who though very different, were a part of God's grand plan. We see that, for married couples, working through current differences pays long-term dividends.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Boaz and Ruth:

How they met? Ruth "happened" to be working in Boaz's field (Ruth 2:3). The circumstances behind Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi's return to Bethlehem as chronicled in first chapter of the book of Ruth deserves significant attention at another time.

What was she like? We learn that Ruth was from Moab (Ruth 1:4); was kind (Ruth 1:8); was a woman of commitment (Ruth 1:16-18) and virtue (Ruth 3:11).

What was he like? Boaz was wealthy (Ruth 2:1); an encourager (Ruth 2:4); was older than Ruth, referring to her as "my daughter" (Ruth 2:8A); was kind (Ruth 2:8B-12) and was honorable in his actions (Ruth 3:1-14; 4:3-7).

What was their issue? They were very different. But they overcame their differences in age (Boaz being significantly older than Ruth); heritage (Boaz a Jew; Ruth a Moabitess); and status (Boaz a wealthy landowner; Ruth a poor widow) to become a couple blessed by God.

How'd it end? When the leaders of Bethlehem learned of the proposed marriage of Boaz and Ruth, not only did they approve of the marriage but gave it a beautiful blessing (Ruth 4:11). Ultimately, God brought Boaz and Ruth together as part of the lineage of David (Ruth 4:17-22) and, later, Jesus Christ.

Maybe Your Dad

In years past on Father's Day, I tried to present a classic Father's Day lesson. Something like The Qualities of a Great Dad or How to Be a Great Dad. I don't do that anymore.

Because for many I know, Father's Day is a painful day. Not everyone had a perfect childhood. Many fathers were lacking, non-existent or are now deceased. The topic of an exemplary father-child relationship is a unknown concept to so many. 

Maybe your Dad was great. Maybe your Dad was never there for you. Maybe he did the best he could. Maybe you never met him. Maybe he worked hard, was gone alot and provided financially but not emotionally. Maybe he was harsh and difficult. Maybe he died early in your life. Maybe you're wishing for a relationship that was never there.

You can't change your past. But you can have that relationship that you've always longed for...with a loving Heavenly Father.  

And for those of us who are Dads, every day we have the opportunity to reflect the love of God to our own children. Take that responsibility seriously and enjoy the journey.

Connecting By Being Honest

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns offer some statements for couples regarding the matter of being honest, particularly with regard to finances (page 212, 213):

We should all recognize the inner potential to sin.
If we are honest with God in all things, we can't be anything but honest with each other.
Money can destroy a marriage.
How you use your money will determine how you bond your marriage.

Great Quote Thursday

Everyone has three names: The one your parents gave you; the one others call you; and the one you make for yourself- Johnny Hunt

Connect Series: Being Honest

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Ananias and Sapphira, a couple who paid dearly for their inability to be honest.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Ananias and Sapphira:

How they met? We don't know.

What were they like? Usually we've looked at what he/she was like, but for Ananias and Sapphira, we only know what they were like as a couple. Being members of the first church, it is very possible that they heard Jesus speak and teach prior to His death, burial and resurrection. The name Ananias means "Jehovah is gracious", so Ananias was raised in a family with a Godly heritage. They were wealthy landowners, having a piece of property that they sold (Acts 5:1). Finally, it's interesting to note that in the midst of the explosive growth of the early church, which didn't necessarily meet in a large building for "church" as we might think today, Peter knew who Ananias was (Acts 5:3). Ananias and Sapphira had been involved in the ministry of the church to be known by the leadership.

What was their issue? A lack of honesty. Likely as a result of the response Barnabas received for his donation to the church (Acts 4:36, 37), Ananias and Sapphira schemed to mislead the church as to the amount of a financial gift they gave (Acts 5:1, 2) after selling some property.

How'd it end? Both Ananias (Acts 5:5) and Sapphira (Acts 5:10) lost their lives because of their lack of honesty and their focus on possessions rather than a pure heart. God dealt rapidly with this sin in the early church to remind the early followers of what was important. As a result of sin being confronted, God grew His church.

NBA Finals Prediction

Miami Heat vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

The Heat outlasted the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. LeBron James was huge while Dwyane Wade struggled. Chris Bosh's return from injury was a big lift for Miami.

The Thunder raced past the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Finals. That series turned quickly after the Spurs took an early 2-0 lead. Kevin Durant is building his legend as an NBA superstar.

The Finals will feature two of the league's best teams. No one is surprised that these two teams are here. Which Big 3 (Miami- James, Wade and Bosh or OKC- Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden) will play the best? The Thunder bench is deeper and OKC provides a great home court advantage.

The pick: Oklahoma City Thunder in 7 games.  

Great Quote Thursday

I've got a theory that if you give 100% all of the time, somehow things will work out in the end- Larry Bird

Connecting Through Building Trust

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns offer some statements for couples regarding the matter of how trust is displayed (page 176):
Trust is sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings and being confident that they will never be used against you.
Trust is knowing you will be loved and accepted, no matter what happens.
Trust is having no anxiety or jealousy when your mate talks to someone of the opposite sex.
Trust will make you willingly vulnerable at times.
Trust in one another will grow over the years.
Both God and your mate can ask you the ultimate question "Do you really trust me?"

And some ways to build trust (page 178):
Both the husband and wife should always look for directions from God.
Both should always seek what is best for all.
Share private matters only with each other.
Consult the Lord for family decisions.

Connect Series: Building Trust

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Mary and Joseph, a couple who learned to connect by building trust.
When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Mary and Joseph:

How they met? We don't know but we do know that they had a proper relationship (Matthew 1:18).

What was she like? We know from Scripture that Mary was a virgin (Matthew 1:18; 23 and Luke 1:34); she was blessed/favored (Luke 1: 28-30); and that she was Biblically knowledgeable (Luke 1:38; 46-55).

What was he like? A carpenter (Matthew 13:55), Joseph was know to be "a just man" (Matthew 1:19) who was caring (Matthew 1:19), thoughtful (Matthew 1:20) and obedient to God's leading (Matthew 1:24).

What was their issue? Trust. Mary and Joseph had to develop trust in the midst of some unique circumstances.
Mary had to trust God's message from the angel (Luke 1:26-33).
Joseph had to trust that Mary was being truthful with regard to her purity.
Joseph had to trust God's message from the angel (Matthew 1:20,21).
Mary had to trust Joseph's leadership (Matthew 2:13,14).

Great Quote Thursday

It's healthy to look forward in life. The problem is, if we keep putting all our happiness, our rest, and our time for each other out there in the future, we'll miss valuable opportunities to live life in the now. Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10). That means fullness of life today. Not someday. (John Trent- Chasing Skinny Rabbits; pg. 52).

NBA Playoffs Conference Finals Predictions

Eastern Conference

(5) Boston Celtics vs. (2) Miami Heat
The Heat are clicking on offense after an early scare from the Indiana Pacers in the last round. LeBron James and Dwyane Wade are willing Miami forward with solid play from the supporting cast. Chris Bosh being out hasn't hurt the Heat yet. Boston is banged up (Ray Allen with bone spurs; Paul Pierce has his usual nagging injury; Avery Bradley is out for the remainder of the playoffs) and struggled to get past an improving Philadelphia squad.

If both teams were at full strength, this might be an interesting series. They aren't.  Plus, the Heat appear to be much tougher mentally than they were this time last year.

The pick: Miami

Western Conference

(2) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (1) San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs winning streak continues. It's amazing how well they still play when their big 3 (Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili) are healthy. A solid, multi-faceted bench has been a strength this season. The Spurs are deep and not as old as their reputation. The Thunder outwilled Kobe Bryant and the Lakers. They used their team speed to overcome a size disadvantage inside. The home crowd is raucous in OKC making it difficult to play the Thunder there.

This should be a fun, exciting series between to two superior offensive teams that play solid defense. Likely to go seven games, I'll take the more experienced team and coach.

The pick: San Antonio

Fun on Friday- More Turnerisms and Parkerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 4, means we have lots of fun discussions in our home. Here are some more:

Turner: One time, when I ate spaghetti, I had a spaghetti burp.
Me: Shew!
Turner: No, it tasted good. For real.

Turner: We're you bored, with just one kid, before I was born?

Me: Good night, Turner. I love you.
Turner: Daddy, I love you. More than MarioKart.

Great Quote Thursday

The hard way is to have the courage to be patient- Dwight Eisenhower

Connecting Despite Difficult Circumstances

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns suggest that when facing difficult decisions, couples should (page 94):

Know you are a part of God's plan on earth
Not try to find the easy way out
Claim God's grace and guidance
Commit the results to God

And to always think "big-picture" (page 97):
Amazing things happen when you look to God
When you look to God, you'll begin to see God's purpose for your life
Remember that God is a problem solver

Connect Series: Difficult Circumstances

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Xerxes and Esther, a couple who learned to connect while working through difficult circumstances.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Xerxes and Esther:

How they met? Xerxes had relieved his wife, Queen Vashti, of her royal position after she refused to attend a banquet he had invited here to (Esther 1:10-12). Xerxes then held a beauty contest to find another queen and Esther was chosen (Esther 2:1-4).

What was she like? She was an orphan (Esther 2:7) who was lovely and beautiful (Judges 2:7).

What was he like? He had an anger problem (Esther 1:12) and was vindictive (Esther 1: 19, 20).  He also relied heavily, to his own detriment, on the counsel of those around him (Esther 1: 13-18).

What was their issue? Esther was a Jew and a captive in Xerxes' kingdom. There was a plot against the Jews led by Xerxes' right hand man, Haman.  Esther needed to communicate with Xerxes but that conversation had to occur properly to be effective (Esther 5: 1, 2).

How'd it end? By the providence of God, at risk to her own life, Esther had an opportunity ("for such a time as this", Esther 4:14) to represent her people before King Xerxes (Esther 5: 1-8; 7: 1-10). Xerxes trusted his wife enough to listen to her and as a result, the Jews were spared and King Xerxes' kingdom was strengthened (Esther 8: 1-17).

NBA Playoffs Conference Semi-Finals Predictions

Eastern Conference

(5) Boston Celtics vs. (8) Philadelphia 76ers
Boston is making one final run with the Big Three (Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen) and Rajon Rondo. They will play hard. Philadelphia defeated the injury-riddled Chicago Bulls to advance and are a team on the rise. But they're not a contender, yet.
The pick: Boston

(2) Miami Heat vs. (3) Indiana Pacers
The Heat are all in. Expectations are through the roof, particularly with the Bulls being eliminated in Round One. Indiana, a surprise 3-seed will battle and play as a team. That won't likely be good enough.
The pick: Miami

Western Conference

(2) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (3) Los Angeles Lakers
Oklahoma City is young, exciting and plays fast. Can Kobe will the Lakers to advance? Will Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum play big, literally and figuratively? If they do, this could be a great series. If not, Showtime will lose to the small market Thunder. Watch for tight officiating as James Harden and Ron Artest (aka Metta World Peace) are back on the same court.
The pick: Oklahoma City

(1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (5) Los Angeles Clippers
The Spurs are rested (having swept the Jazz) and tested (veteran leadership by Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili). The Clippers have a great leader in Chris Paul and Blake Griffin brings excitement every night. But the Clippers don't always play smart defensive basketball. San Antonio usually does.
The pick: San Antonio   

Great Quote Thursday

Abstract knowledge is of little value, but applied knowledge is wisdom (Gary Chapman, The Four Seasons of Marriage, page 168).

Book Review: Redemption by Bryan Clay

The reigning Olympic decathlon champion, Bryan Clay, has released an autobiography in the run-up to the 2012 Summer Olympic Games to be held in London, England.

Clay is quite honest in the difficulties he experienced in his early life: his parents' divorce, a physical altercation with his stepfather (whom he now has a solid relationship with), his alcohol abuse, his partying lifestyle.

The book goes to great lengths to recognize the people who have positively impacted Clay. The list of positive influences includes his mother who consistently prayed for him, a childhood teacher, his high school coach, his collegiate coaches at Azusa Pacific (who remain his coaches today).

But Clay's story is one of redemption. Upon meeting his now wife, he was encouraged to make a significant life change. But it was only when Clay gave his life to Christ that he was truly released from the life of rebellion he had been living.

While there is ample material chronicling Clay's decathlon exploits and track meet history (including a chapter about the 2008 Olympic Game experience), it's obvious that Clay wants to use this book to encourage men to be better husbands and fathers.

Clay's openness and honesty make this a good read. I'll be rooting for Clay in this summer's Olympic Games.

Working Together Successfully

In their book, "How to Build a Lasting Marriage", Elmer and Ruth Towns suggest that couples who work together successfully (page 73):

Are willing to give more than they receive
Are willing to give and take suggestions from each other
Respect the talents their partner brings to the job
Practice openness about mistakes and problems
Enjoy working together
Build a marital love that is stronger than financial pressure

And these reminders to promote working together effectively (page 78, 79):
Keep Christ as the spotlight in ministry.
Be involved as a couple.
Complement and support each other's strengths.
Be free to minister for God together.

Connect Series: Working Together

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the marriage of Aquila and Priscilla, a couple that was always working together.

When you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some information on Aquila and Priscilla:

How they met? We don't know; we only see them together as a married couple in Scripture. Therefore, we don't know much about how they were as individuals. What we do know about Aquila and Priscilla, however, is that the Bible presents them as a great example of unity, constantly working together.

Aquila was a native of Pontus (Acts 18:2), modern-day Turkey. His name is Jewish while Priscilla is a Gentile (non-Jewish) name. The couple lived in Rome until AD 52 when Roman Emperor Claudius ordered all Jews to leave Rome. They settled in Corinth, which is where they met the Apostle Paul.

What were they like?
They were tentmakers by trade (Acts 18:3), likely a skill Aquila learned from his father.
They were hospitable (Acts 18:3), opening their home to Paul where he taught them deeply from the Scriptures.
They became missionaries to Ephesus (Acts 18:18,19), leaving Corinth with Paul on mission.
They were mentors (Acts 18:24-26). When Apollos, a Jew from Egypt and a gifted speaker, came to Ephesus, he preached about Jesus but as if the Messiah had not yet come. He taught of Christ but in the same way John the Baptist had, knowing only the baptism of John. By reaching out to Apollos and sharing with him all they knew of Jesus (much of which they learned from Paul), many believers and churches were blessed (Acts 18:27,28).
They were courageous (Romans 16:3,4). By allowing Paul to live with them shortly after his conversion to Christianity, they allowed him to build his positive reputation among the Christ-followers while at the same time providing him with protection and provision.
They started churches (I Corinthians 16:19). They used their home as a church meeting location.
  
How'd they finish?
The last time we see this couple in Scripture (II Timothy 4:19), they are continuing to serve God faithfully. Paul references them from prison, approximately 16 years after he first met them in Corinth. 

Fun on Friday- More Parkerisms and Turnerisms

Raising two sons, 8 and 4, means we have lots of fun discussions in our house. Here are some more:

While watching a baseball game:
Me: Turner, which team are you for?
Turner: The team that's winning, of course.

While watching commercials during a basketball game:
Parker: You know how the Michelin Man takes tires out of himself? I wonder why he never shrinks.

On a Sunday afternoon:
Turner: Can we take a fun nap?
Me: What's that?
Turner: When you don't really take a nap.

Great Quote Thursday

If you don't solve a moral problem in your life, it will eventually return again and again until you master it or it masters you- Elmer Towns (How to Build a Lasting Marriage- pg. 113).

Learning from Bad Choices

From "How to Build a Lasting Marriage" by Elmer and Ruth Towns, here are some thoughts on why people make bad choices (page 104):

1. Habit- it's simply their lifestyle
2. Weakness- they aren't strong enough to say no
3. Ignorance- they don't understand there are alternatives
4. Naivety- they were never taught to make good choices
5. Example- they follow people they mistake as heroes
6. Pleasure- they are ruled by the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16)
7. Comfort- good choices are sometimes hard to make; bad choices are almost always easy

And these reminders to help make good choices (page 118):
Life is filled with choices.
There's usually weakness in strength. Remember the Lord gives strength (Phil. 4:13).
The enemy knows your weakness.
God is the God of second chances.

Connect Series: Learning from Bad Choices

In our relationship series, Connect, we are looking at the lives of Bible couples and the issues they dealt with. This week, we look at the relationship of Samson and Delilah. Their issue: bad choices.

Whenever you meet someone, you usually want to know something about them. Here's some background on Samson and Delilah:

How they met? Samsom had a continuing weakness for women of low character and Philistine (enemies of Israel) allegiance (Judges 16:4).

What was she like? We see that Delilah was a schemer (Judges 16:5); a deceiver (Judges 16:7, 11, 13); and a manipulator (Judges 16:6, 10, 13, 15-16).

What was he like? Samson was shallow (Judges 14:1, 2A); immature (Judges 14:2B, 13) and naive (Judges 16:16-20).

What was their issue? Their relationship was based on selfish desires that ultimately led them down a path of destruction. Samson wanted sex, Delilah wanted money and power. Combined with a lack of honesty, their relationship was toxic.

How'd it end? After he'd truly hit bottom, Samson called out to the Lord. God extended His mercy to Samson and allowed him a measure of redemption against the enemy (Judges 16:21-30).

NBA Playoffs First Round Predictions

Eastern Conference
(1) Chicago Bulls vs. (8) Philadelphia 76ers
Injuries to Derrick Rose may hurt the Bulls at some point, but not against the Sixers. Philadelphia has struggled down the stretch while the Bulls have been strong all season, including solid play from its bench.
The pick: Chicago

(2) Miami Heat vs. (7) New York Knicks
The Knicks may surprise in a game or two if Carmelo Anthony erupts on offense and if New York's outside shots are falling. Anything short of an NBA title will be a disappointment in South Beach.
The pick: Miami

(3) Indiana Pacers vs. (6) Orlando Magic
The Pacers have surprised this season after a strong playoffs last year. Dwight Howard is out with a back injury and the Magic season can't end soon enough.
The pick: Indiana

(4) Atlanta Hawks vs. (5) Boston Celtics
The Celtics have been super since the All-Star break. Not breaking up this team has paid off so far. Al Horford won't be back for at least the first round of the playoffs. The areas where the Celtics are strong are the areas where the Hawks are weak.
The pick: Boston


Western Conference
(1) San Antonio Spurs vs. (8) Utah Jazz
The Jazz fought impressively just to make the playoffs. If they can keep this team together for a couple of seasons, Utah could be a force to be reckoned with. The Spurs already are.
The pick: San Antonio

(2) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (7) Dallas Mavericks
Dallas caught fire in last year's playoffs en route to a championship. This is not that team as the Mavericks are hoping to make the best of it this time around, hoping to sign Deron Williams in the offseason and then make a play for Dwight Howard later. The Thunder are an exciting, young team that is just beginning to reach its potential.
The pick: Oklahoma City

(3) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (6) Denver Nuggets
Kobe Bryant hates to lose and combined with Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum they form a solid unit with lots of experience. The Nuggets have surprised this season.
The pick: Los Angeles Lakers

(4) Memphis Grizzlies vs. (5) Los Angeles Clippers
The Grizzlies play great team ball with lots of size. The Clippers have the star power. This could be the tightest first-round series with Memphis holding home-court advantage. 
The pick: Memphis