Licking the Cup

"You should not lick that," I thought with a little embarrassment.

My family and I were sharing communion together with the rest of our church at our Christmas weekend service. Communion is a special time of remembrance, repentance and connection to God. So as Spencer, my 6 year old son, licked the inside of his tiny plastic communion cup, somehow it seemed wrong.

I did not correct him or say anything ... and as I thought about it; I am glad I kept quiet. His action was one of innocence and even somewhat appropriate. He wanted every bit of the grape juice that his tiny cup had to offer. We can delight in every bit of what God has to offer us. As we seek after a friendship with Him, we will always be satisfied.

Spencer, keep on going after every drop.

Dirty Dishes

The sink seemed to always be full. It was not even supper time yet and I was enduring my second, time consuming task of washing dishes. This mundane task of scraping egg stained skillets, scrubbing pots, and rinsing off sippy cups and cereal bowls got me thinking of just how blessed I am.

I realized that I would not have all these dishes to wash if I had not been blessed with four great children and an incredible wife. Many of those dirty dishes started with a cherished family meal. The food around our table comes from that which God provides for us. But most importantly, the dirty dinnerware reminds me of the forgiveness and redemption God provides for my sinful life.

As I reflect on the birth of Jesus this Christmas, I am thankful God takes my dirty life and continually cleans it up. Cleaning up our lives is one chore God never sees as mundane. -- Merry Christmas.

Crash

My foot gave the pedal a little too much gas and it happened. "Oh no," my mind screamed as my car began to slide off the glassy slick parking lot and into the grass.

"AM I GOING TO HIT THAT TREE?! -- WILL I STOP IN TIME?! -- IS MY CAR GOING TO GET STUCK ON THIS CRUNCHY ICY GRASS?" ... My car did come to a stop, it did not hit the tree and I easily backed out off the grass . . . but in that moment, I was not sure what would happen.

The feeling of being out of control was at first exciting, then fearful and finally relieving when I knew all was safe. Our lives can sometimes feel that way. Circumstances come that are out of our control. Other situations may even tempt us to feel overwhelmed and walk in fear. During times like these, the only sure place to go to find peace and get guidance is with God. He always calms our fears and helps us put the circumstances of life into there proper perspective.

Besides, many of the stresses in my life come from hitting the gas pedal at just the wrong time.

Snuggling with Dad

"Dad, I want to hug you for awhile," my seven year old son said. As Elliott crawled up on my lap and snuggled in, my mind thought of the security and closeness we were sharing as father and son. Even though few words were exchanged, I knew the importance of these moments. No needs to be met or homework to go over, just being together.

I think this is how God desires to spend most of His time with us. Yes, He loves to guide us, provide for our needs and give us instructions that will better our lives; but I think He cherishes most the moments when we just sit and enjoy His presence.

I love being a dad and spending time with my kids ... and I think God does too.

Thankfulness - by Annette

My pastor encouraged us to reflect on things we are thankful for ... so here it goes. I am thankful for:

God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, my salvation and freedom to worship.

God's forgiveness, abundant grace, unmerited mercy, perfect peace, joy, abounding love and good health.

My handsome Carl, beautiful Savannah, genius Elliott, athletic Spencer, fun loving Cooper, sisters, mom, dad, brother, nieces, nephews, all my family, all my friends, church family and a great marriage.

Air to breathe, water to drink , heat to keep me warm, money, cars, a house, indoor plumbing, food to eat, a bed to sleep in, blankets, socks and shoes.

The ability to hear, see, speak, and smell; healthy kids, home schooling, sunshine, snow, hugs, kisses, bedtime prayers, the Bible, worshipping God, dancing, date nights with my husband, sister nights out, dates with the kids, family dinners, restaurants, vacations and financial blessings.

Even Kleenex, baby wipes, and deodorant.

Sweetness

Every time they are together it puts a smile on my face. Whether it is how her face lights up as she talks about her beloved husband or the way he calls her “sweetness” -- it is obvious that they have a deep love for one another. A close, intimate friendship not only still exists between Gene and Alice after 31 years of marriage, but it seems to continually grow.

Their affection for one another is contagious. Other couples attempt to emulate what they see and hear. Wives are challenged to speak well of their husbands and husbands to adore their wives. Their relationship demonstrates the power of speaking and displaying selfless love and its positive, far reaching affects.

As I think of Gene and Alice, I am reminded of God’s great love for us. The power of His love is far reaching and affects us all. The many times God touches our lives is sweeter than anything. We cannot keep from speaking about Him. As we do, it brings joy to our lives … and transformation to others.

Sunday Nap

Foggy, weary and tired -- my body was demanding a nap this Sunday afternoon. I lay my groggy head and heavy legs upon our soft couch hoping to get just a few winks. I felt some sense of guilt as my wife persevering in the kitchen diligently cleaning up from lunch. However, it did not deter me from my nap.

After I slept for about an hour, I felt revived. I spent the rest of the cool fall afternoon working around the yard. As I labored, I thought of my wife. I am so thankful that she is patient and kind. Her selfless attitude, steadfast work ethic, and love for me is unmatched.

Well, not quite unmatched. God's love for me takes the cake ... but she is a close second.

Date Night -- by Annette

As we sat in our backyard enjoying the cool Sunday afternoon weather and the laughter of our children, my husband said, "Oh, honey we were suppose to have our monthly date night tonight." We had both forgotten and realized it was to late.

A few moments later, we decided to walk to a local convenience store to get snacks. Our kids rode their bikes and I leisurely enjoyed a stroll with my husband. Though our date nights usually involve dinner, a movie ... just time alone without the kids. Tonight was different. We were not alone, but as we watched our kids race up the sidewalk and enjoy a sweet snack, I realized it was just as special.

Auctions

To my surprise, just an ear shot from my back fence was a household auction. Spencer, my curious six year old, and I decided to check it out. As we walked by the many cars that lined the streets, we discovered a yard filled with treasures. After getting our bid number, we positioned ourselves close to the items we were interested in -- two sleeping bags packaged tightly in their stuff bags. The bidding started at $5 then $6, I countered at $7, my top bid. Going once, twice, sold. As we peeked into the top of one of the bags, we noticed it had camouflaged material. Spencer was so excited.

We made the short walk home and opened up both stuff bags only to discover that the camouflage material was a pillow covered in camouflage. It was not what we expected. It reminded me that when we seek after God, unexpected things will happen -- but unlike the pillow, its always for the best.

The Munster Flood

The misty, moldy smell permeated the air as we entered into the flood devastated neighborhoods of Munster. The turn toward the river brought yard after yard filled with water logged furniture, mold filled drywall, and destroyed family treasures. As we approached Elaine's house, we could she that her property was no different. This 84 year old widow had lost nearly all her possessions from the flood waters that rushed into her home.

The team of seven from our church spent the next two days cleaning out wet drywall, soaked paneling, and moldy insulation. At the end of our final day, Elaine approached us with a gift. "It is all I have to give you," she said, as she handed us a half a box of chocolates. "You have saved my life," she said as we depart with a group prayer and plenty of tearful hugs.

We never preached or handed out a gospel pamphlet, but hope was imparted as we represented Jesus with love and actions. I can't wait to do it again.

It's Been Awhile

Hello. It has been awhile since I posted an entry. My kids inspired me as we created Savannah (9), Elliott (7) and Spencer (6) their own blogs. They are listed as Savannah's Blog, Elliott's Fun Site, and Spencer's Funhouse under my "Favorite Links" in the lower part of my front page. They all created their first entries this evening.

I hope you enjoy.

Mini Marathon - Full Speed

You could feel the excitement, the energy, the anticipation. In just a mere moments, I was about to start my fifth Indy Mini-Marathon. 13.1 miles lie ahead for me and the other 35,000 runners. The chill of this spring morning nipped at my body, but my experience told me that it would only last a short time. The air temperature would soon rise along with my body temperature as the miles would click off. It was though others didn't realize this fact. All around me were runners with long sleeve shirts, even jackets. A few had small cinch sacks filled with unnecessary supplies.

As I approached the 1 and 2 mile markers, I discovered the road to be littered with clothing. In addition, I noticed some runners tying unneeded apparel around their waste, impeding their pace. It reminds me of Hebrews 12:1 where it says; "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

The clothing littering the road reminds me of those things I have tossed away, never to hinder me again. The challenge is to untie from around me those things that still entangle me. As I do, I will run unimpeded, full speed ahead after God.

Mini Marathon -- Water

My heart was beating, my legs were aching, and I felt a little light headed. 12.5 miles and 2 hour and 15 minutes of running behind me, I only had about 3/4 of a mile to go. As I approached the final of 17 aid stations, I could here the encouraging words of the aid workers.

By this time I had learned to look for just the right aid worker. The ones who gripped the small cups of water made the exchange difficult and often the cups of water were dropped or spilled. The best exchange occurs when the cup is laid upon the workers hand like a cup upon a table.

It reminds me to keep my hands open, ready to give to others and receive from God. A clasped hand lets nothing in or out, but an open hand -- well, it leads to a life of blessing.

Acorns

"Daddy, look what I got!", Elliott said with proud excitement. I peered into the bottom of his bucket and viewed my son's new found treasure -- Acorns. My brother and sister-in-laws yard had many. Elliott, my inquisitive son and Abbie, his fun-loving cousin enthusiastically took me outside to assist them in filling their yellow tin bucket. As the journey began I became "Daddy Squirrel" and Elliott and Abbie became "Brother and Sister Squirrel." Our vast hunt included the discovery of a snake hole, a slimy worm, and plenty of digging.

As our bucket brimmed to the top, I realized that the treasure was not found in the acorns, but the time spent with each other. They did not ask for my assistance in order to speed up the collection process, but rather to enjoy the hunt together.

A long-time friend has often told me, "Enjoy the journey of life". I would only add, "Enjoy the journey with someone else."

Pugs

It seldom barks, smiles or even moves. His round body labors across the room under his furry, short legs. "Max", my sister's pug, is docile, unplayful -- basically boring. Oh course, my sister has a different perspective. She sees Max as humble, patient, loyal, and extremely tolerant.

I will admit, the longer I was around Max's compliant personality, slow motion walk, and pitiful face; the more I enjoyed his company. He is the kind of dog that has no expectations of your relationship to him, no agenda, and no complaints. He just sits in your lap totally content. All he desires is to be close to you.

God is much the same. His desire to be close to us is unmatched. He is always available and ready to sit with us at any time. He loves being with us more than anything.

I guess Max isn't so boring after all.

Biggest Loser

What an unexpected surprise. Long time friends were in town and sitting at my kitchen table. As our kids and their daughter watched the "Biggest Loser" in the living room, we enjoyed catching up. Suddenly, Elliott my 6 year old soon bolted into the kitchen with seemingly exciting news. "Dad, dad, he lost 100 pounds!" "Who", I asked. "Curtis", Elliott explained as he waved his arms with excitement.

My family and I have enjoyed watching the weight loss reality show, so I tried to remember Curtis. Elliott described him in detail until I could visualize this thinning contestant. "Oh, he is black, right?", I said with confidence. With a look of bewilderment, Elliott corrected me with a sigh, "No Dad, he is not black, he is brown."

In his description of this "brown" man, he never noticed his skin color -- only his accomplishments. My son's simple, untainted view challenged me to do the same.

Funeral

I arrived early to find the parking lot already half full. Mike's character and love affected many so it was no surprise that he would have a well attended funeral. As I greeted familiar faces in the standing room only crowd, I felt proud to have known such a great man. His example of unconditional love, consistent Christ-following, hard work, and compassion toward others made an impact on my life. Even in the closing months of Mike's life, where he suffered from illness and diease, his faith never wavered -- his love for Jesus remained strong.

As I passed by his wedding album, many flowers, and the body that once housed Mike's wonderful spirit, I realize a great life had ended, but a legacy remains. John 13:15 states, "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." He did much for others through his words, life, and deeds. It challenges me to do the same.

Adoption

The halls were poorly marked, empty and quiet, but my guide knew exactly where he was going. As we came upon a small unimpressive waiting area, I wondered what I would discover through the next door. I entered to find the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit bustling with activity as nurses, parents, and other caregivers were about the well being, and sometimes survival of these little ones. As I passed by the monitors and "bubbles" that contained each child, I wondered about little Eli's condition.

Born five weeks early he has already faced his share of adversity. Fortunately the future is bright because of his new adoptive parents. Unexpectedly asked to take this child as their own, they eagerly volunteered. Their loving and willing sacrifice extended toward this precious infant reminded me of God's love for us. He willingly sent his son to die in order to pay the price of our adoption. Ephesians 1:5 states it well; "His unchanging plan has always been to adopt us into his own family by sending Jesus Christ to die for us." (Living Bible)

As I approached Eli's empty bed I was blessed to find him resting in his new mother's arms. The love in her eyes for her son was deep and eternal ... just like God's love for us.

Bagel with Cream Cheese

I'm late! Fresh from the microwave, I hurriedly sat the hot bagel next to the cream cheese and then scurried out of the room to finish getting ready for the day. Upon returning to the kitchen minutes later, I found my bagel spread with delicious cream cheese ready to be enjoyed. Knowing I was rushed, Annette lovingly took the time to finish preparing my simple breakfast. This may seem like a small act until it be considered just how busy mornings are for her.

A stay-at-home mom, home educator of our four children, a caregiver to another two year old, and being my wife keeps her schedule overloaded with activity. Mornings are especially hectic with preparation of the classroom, feeding the family, and getting the kids ready for school.

Now, I am uncertain if I deserved this unexpected act of service, but it reminds me what Proverbs 3:27 says, "Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act." Her simple act truly blessed me that morning.

As I enjoyed my bagel, I felt privileged to have such a caring wife -- and challenged to look for small ways that I could bless others … especially her.

Flicka

I am not usually an emotional person, but this night was different. My eight year old daughter and I had just finished watching, "Flicka", a movie about the struggles of a daughter and the love of her father. As the credits were scrolling across the screen, I sat down next to Savannah who was bundled in a blanket on the living room couch.

I looked into her beautiful brown eyes and tenderly said, "Do you know that you are very special." "Yes." she said with a confident smile. With a curious tone, I asked,"Why do you know that you are special?" She simply stated, "Because you say I am and that is good enough for me." Her response warmed my heart.

Savannah believes she is special because she trusts in my words. God's words are even more trustworthy. He has a special love for me ... for all of us. The more I realize this ... the more it warms His heart.

Flat Tires

I just couldn't believe it. As I pulled up my snowy driveway and got out into the frigid February air, I noticed that my wife's mini van appeared to be lopsided. Upon closer inspection, I discovered that our gray toyota mini van had a flat tire. You may be thinking, "What's the big deal about a flat tire." For me it was not just one flat tire, it was the second flat tire that day. As a matter of fact, within the last seven days I had bought two new tires for the car, one new tire for the van, and now was about to take another trip to the repair shop. "Unbelievable, what's next?!", I muttered as I stared at the deflated tire.

In the midst of my frustration, I realized that the situation was effecting my attitude. I paused and thought, "Was it really that terrible?" I mean ... I did have the money to pay for the repairs, none of the flats occurred in unsafe areas, and I do have a trustworthy auto repair shop to assist me. Though inconvenienced, it really was not that big of a deal.

I had a choice -- was I going to rise above the situation or allow the situation to negatively effect my attitude. The truth be told; on this occasion, I probably fell somewhere in the middle. Well, at least for a little while.

itunes

The search was on. With $15 to spend in my itunes account, I excitedly began to hunt for a few of my favorite songs. With each click of the mouse, my search narrowed from several different songs to one, "Your Love, Oh Lord". I now needed to choose the musical artists who conveyed its message with just the right style, vocals and instrumental mix. I listened intently to the dozens of renditions until finally making my selection.

With my search complete, I am reminded of God's longing for me to search for him just as intently as I looked for that song. My focus and attention to God's words not only pleases Him, but it is profoundly beneficial to me as Proverbs 4:20,22 states - "My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words ...for they, (God's words), are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body."

It is an easy choice to listen and obey God because of the "life and health" that he gives us. However, when I fall short to fulfilling God's instructions -- I will get up and try again.

Homemade Valentine

He searched and searched the church lobby with no luck. Our 5 year old diligently went from person to person looking for someone "who did not know God" to give his homemade valentine. He found no one.

His disappoint would be short-lived, however, as our family entered a local nursing home two days later. He grasped the simple heart-shaped valentine with anticipation, hoping that he would find someone who needed it. His goal would be accomplished as he approached the first person in his view, the nursing home's maintenance man. "Hello, happy valentines day, Jesus loves you," he said with a great big smile filled with joy. The man seemingly surprised by Spencer's boldness, but blessed by his kindness received the hand crafted gift.

Spencer's simple act of love exemplified 1 Thessalonians 5:15b where it states, "... always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." I am often kind to the "each others" in my life -- those I know; my friends. Spencer challenged me to be kind to "everyone else".

Hot Wheels

Ouch!!! Hopping around the room trying not to plunge into a piece of living room furniture, I look down to see what caused the bottom of my foot such pain. There it was, shining with its high gloss paint job and jagged edges, lay ajar on the floor - a Hot Wheel. As I tried to rub out the indentions in my foot, I could feel frustration rising up within me. "Why was there a Hot Wheel in my living room? Which of my boys had left it?!" As the sharp pain subsided, it gave me a chance to put this moment into perpective.

Proverbs 14:17 tells us that "a quick-tempered man does foolish things". In my moment of frustration, I could have foolishly spoken harsh words to my boys. In reality, the hot wheel was on the floor because -- that is where you play with hot wheels. It really did not matter who left it. What matters is how I handle it ... or more truly ... how I handle myself.

Ice Cream

I just could not get enough. My mouth enjoyed every bite of the heaping bowl of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream that my wife so generously prepared for me. With each cool, sugar-filled bite I wanted more. It is a craving that has been with me for years.

Later that night, as I cracked open the Bible and began to read Proverbs, I was reminded that God desires us to crave for him and his word. He instructs us to "accept... store up... turn our ear toward... apply... call out for... cry aloud for... look... and search for his words and commands. (excerpts of Proverbs 2:1-4). In other words, crave and passionately pursue him and his wisdom for our daily lives.

Our pursuit of God produces rewards that include deeper understanding of God, clearer thinking, and wiser decision making. Proverbs 2:6, "... the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding". God's offers his wisdom to us ... it is there for the taking.

I really enjoyed that bowl of cookie dough ice cream. It satisfied my tastebuds. However, it is only God that truly satisfies my spirit. The more I learn from God's word, the Bible, the more I want. I just can not get enough.

Truth

The search for truth is something that mankind has pursued since God created Adam. Within this search, we are usually confronted with moral decisions, character development, and investigation of facts. In my search for truth; I am most satisfied with the teaching of the Bible. I especially enjoy the short, wisdom filled chapters of the book of Proverbs -- a book that our pastor recently challenged us to study.

That is why today; me and a starting group of 6 men are beginning a journey of reading a chapter a day in Proverbs. Maybe you would like to join us ... we welcome you.

As you read along with us, feel free to share your insights by clicking on the comment line at the bottom of any entry and write your thoughts in the comment box. Many of these comments will be posted for others to enjoy. So, lets begin our journey.

Proverbs 1

According to the commentary in my bible, a Proverb is "a short, compact saying ... that expresses a principle ... about human behavior from God's point of you." In essence, it is wisdom. Proverbs 1:20a says, "Wisdom calls aloud in the street ..." It brings me comfort that God cares so much for me that He would make His wisdom so attainable, so clear.

Lord, I turn my ears to your call. Help me to understand and apply your truth and wisdom as you speak it to me.

The Elevator

As the hospital elevator traveled upward to Jenni's floor, I thought about our last visit. She has been sick for quite a while now. The pneumonia in her left lung has caused her breathing difficulties and weakness. The elevator's rise reminds me of the high levels of pain she has been bearing. During that visit, she asked about the church, my kids and my wife. In the midst of her pain, she was more interested in talking about me than herself.

As I enter her spacious hospital room for today's visit, I was greeted with a warm hello. I tried to keep our conversation focused on her, but she guided our visit to questions and genuine concern for others. In the midst of her pain, her selfless character shined bright.

We ended our time with prayer and I quietly departed her room. Upon reentering the elevator, I realized that though I went to encourage and bring hope to her, it is my life that was enriched the most.

My Cat

This morning I got up before the rest of my family. The quietness of the house and the slight chill of our basement family room refreshed me. As I sat down by the computer, something was about to interrupted this peaceful moment. In the blink of an eye our cat, Mariah, jumped effortlessly upon the desk, brushed her side along my shoulder, and began to purr. She had decided that now was the time I was going to pay attention to her.

She decides when she will be picked up or stroked and when I get the privilege of her attention. If she is not in the mood to be with me, she will escape my grasp or simply ignore me. It is truly a one sided relationship.

It reminds that often I treat God the same way. I want his full attention when I desire it and can easily ignore him when he wants mine. Lord, forgive me and help me to be attentive to your desires and your guidance.

PS - At least Mariah is a good mouser

Bedtime

As I walked up the poorly lit stairs to my boys bedroom, I could feel a slight chill coming from above. I entered the room, plugged in their heater and sat at their side. Though they have bunkbeds, they still sleep together in the spacious bottom bunk. As they nestled in under the soft covers, I sensed a warmst welling up in me. This nightly ritual of prayer and good night hugs is a powerful and precious time.

Most profound to me, is that God hears every word of blessing, protection, and provision that I pray over my sons. Lord, help me not to take these moments for granted.

Birthday

Yesterday, as I was working in my office, I noticed faint singing coming from the hall. The familiar voices singing a special rendition of "Happy Birthday" brought a big smile to my face. My family entered with grins, homemade chocolate chip cookies and hand made birthday cards. Cherished hugs were exchanged and then they quickly exited for drinks in the church kitchen.

Later in the day, I opened much appreciated birthday cards and presents, but none of them quite compared with the crayola colored birthday cards from my kids. I have enjoyed some great store bought birthday cakes, but none tasted quite as good as the warm chocolate chip cookies that my wife brought to the church office.

Its these special moments that I choose to savor -- it is these loved filled acts that mean the most.

Opportunity

Our local YMCA was full of activity last night with elementary aged winter basketball practice. As my daughter's 3rd to 5th grade practice was about to begin, we visually survey her new teammates. At first we both were in awe at how much bigger most of the other players were than her. Her thin, 50 pound 3rd grade frame seemed to be no match to the Goliath sized 100+ pound 5th graders. How would she match up?

Then, as practice was about to begin, Coach Turner, a former high school and college basketball star who played 13 years of professional basketball, mentioned that I was going to help coach. Me? ... the closest I got to playing on a formal team is when I got cut during 7th grade try-outs. How would I match up?

Savannah and I both realized we had a choice -- either be intimidated by the situation or embrace the opportunity. We choose the later by realizing that this was a great opportunity to learn, be challenged, stretched to the limit, and grow. My daughter took on the challenge with intense focus and extreme hard work which resulted in significant improvement in just 1 hour of instruction. I was so proud of her decision to embrace the opportunity.

Choices

Tuesday, my family and I were driving to Ft. Wayne for a fun and relaxing overnight trip. The roads were snow covered and the frigid winds were gusting which made driving conditions sketchy at best. As we cut a path down the interstate, my hands griped a little tighter to the steering wheel, my speed was a little below normal, and my mind more focused on the task ahead.

As I reflect back, it occurred to me that my focused driving not only effected me but many others. The safety of my family and other drivers were impacted by my attentive driving. It reminds me that each decision I make whether wise or foolish will effect others around me. It is my choice whether my effect is positive or negative.