A Week at Student Life

David is back from a week at Student Life @ the Beach in Daytona, Florida. All the youth had a great time worshiping with 6,992 other people. You read right there were 7,000 in attendance! How awesome that must be to worship with that many people. Here's the highlights from his week:

• Having the opportunity to hear Louie Giglio speak each day.
• Watching Chris Tomlin lead worship.
• Being on beautiful Daytona beach and knowing that the God he serves created it.
• Seeing youth accept the Lord.
• Attempting to find a place to eat that the line wasn't out the door.
• Realizing that he didn't know if he was coming or going ("Is this elevator going up or down?").
• Having a nice bus to ride in.
• Surviving a week without television.
• Being home where Mom is!

Daytona Beach

Worship

Louie Giglio

Shane & Shane

Lori & Hannah

A Cup of Coffee

This morning I took some time away from the office to meet a friend at Common Grounds. Before you think I was slacking off, let me say that this was an outreach as well as a personal meeting. Jennifer Piedra, her husband, Alex, and their two children, Mason and Mia, started coming to our church about a year ago and this is the first opportunity I've had to actually spend any amount of time with her. I throughly enjoyed getting to know more about her, her husband, and children. She is a lovely woman that just has a loving, down to earth spirit about her and her love for the Lord just overflows. I pray that this is just the beginning of many more opportunities of being with her.

Baseball, Baseball & More Baseball

This week we have traveled out of town twice to watch Beau play baseball with the American Legion Team in district games. On Monday, they played in Wellington. After the first two innings a thunderstorm came through delaying the game for about 30 minutes. Once the storm passed the game resumed. They lost 7 - 1. On Thursday night we traveled to Royal Palm Beach to Seminole Park to watch them win the game 7 -3! It's fun watching these boys play and display their talent even though they don't win every game. Their love for the game displays itself each and every game.

Rainy Days

It's that time of year again where it seems to rain everyday. I enjoy the rain but when it rains everyday for a week I begin to grow tired of it. Nevertheless, I don't control the weather so I guess I will just have to deal with it for at least another 10 days . At least that is what the weatherman says. With it raining every day it has caused me to think of how many songs have the word "rain" in their title.

1. Smoky Mountain Rain" - Ronnie Milsap
2. "I'm No Stranger To The Rain" - Keith Whitley
3. "Purple Rain" - Prince
4. "Bring on the Rain" - Tim McGraw
5. "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head" - B.J. Thomas
6. "Listen to the Rhythm of the Falling Rain" - Tory Barnett

My all time favorite and the one I'm singing right now - Rain, Rain Go Away!

Student Life Camp

David along with 7 more teenagers and chaperones traveled to Daytona Beach yesterday for a week long Student Conference.The theme for the week is To Phroneo Christou. “The attitude of Christ”, taken from Philippians 2:5 which reads “your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Chris Tomlin is leading worship and Louie Giglio is the teacher for the week. David was excited to have the opportunity to worship with these wonderful men of God and to hear Louie Giglio bring God's Word. Student Life has provided a website for each camp so that parents and friends may share in their experience by listening to a live audio of the nights worship service as well as seeing pictures from each day. You can check it out at by clicking on the link above. Once David returns I will have him share his experience and his photos from the week.

Congratulations Eric & Sarah

Joshua is going to be a big brother and I am going to be a great aunt again! My nephew and his wife (Eric & Sarah) are expecting a second child. The baby is due in March 2007. Congratulations guys! Angela will be anxiously waiting to find out if it's a boy or girl. We all know she doesn't want to give up the status of being the only granddaughter.

Celebrating the 4th of July

David and I celebrated the 4th of July at the home of Jim, Phyllis and Jessica Wilkinson. Jim and Phyllis prepared a wonderful meal of chicken, ribs, potato salad, pasta salad, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, garlic bread and a variety of desserts. Jim's family came over as well and invited some of their friends to come along. We enjoyed visiting with them and having a relaxing afternoon. Angela left on Thursday going to Ft. Myers with Cheyenne to visit Cheyenne's cousin for the weekend. Cheyenne's cousin took them to the beach today and they stayed to watch the fireworks display there. David didn't want to go watch the fireworks display here in town so I went alone to watch. I always park at Eastside Elementary's parking lot to enjoy the display and was happy to see friends there tonight to watch them with. As always it was fun watching the small children eyes filled with awe as the fireworks exploded in the air above their little heads. While watching the fireworks I began to think about the things for which I grateful for being an American:

I thank God that I was born in America.

I am thankful for all the men and women that have served (and are serving) our country to insure the freedoms of this great country.

I thank God that I can go to church and worship God without fear of persecution.

I thank God for all the good and even the bad that happens every day because I know no matter how bad it is, it is still better than any other place in the world this side of heaven.

Stay Off the Sidewalks

Stay off the sidewalks everybody David can now officially drive without a parent in the vehicle with him. He passed his driving test on Friday afternoon. I have yet to let him take the van out on the road without me. But the day is coming when I will be comfortable letting my baby boy drive without me. I was nervous as he drove off Friday with the examiner as I stood in front of the DMV office. He did well as I knew he would. When asked about how the test went he said she asked him what is the proper way to park on a hill? He replied that you park with your wheels turned (whichever way I forgot the correct answer) and put the vehicle in park. She asked, "Then what?" He told her he didn't know. "Put on your emergency brake", she replied. "Well, I live in South Florida and we don't have hills but I will remember that, " David replied. My son always the smart mouth.

After leaving the DMV we went to add him to onto the auto insurance. I was pleasantly surprised when the agent told me my insurance premium would only increase $54 per month. Not bad since I have heard other parents saying their insurance tripled. Since he has a job I'm sure he won't mind giving me the extra every month (only joking).

Solo Femininity

I love Carolyn McCulley's website Solo Femininity. This is a wonderful blog for Christian single women. Carolyn shares her insight on topics ranging from Biblical Femininity to Understanding Men. As I was reading her blog this week I came across two articles that reminded me of what I have been called to do. Check them out here and here.

Idolatry

Idolatry, in its simplest form, is when I replace the worship of God with some physical image or object that I can see and touch. Romans 1:25 alerts us to the fact that there is an innate tendency in every human being to replace the spiritual with the physical.

"They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator - who is forever praised. Amen."

The truth of the matter is that life can be found only in the Creator. Yet we seek to find life in the physical not eternal. Physical things by their very nature have no power to offer what the Creator alone can give. Heed this warning in Jeremiah 10:1-16:

1Hear the word which the LORD speaks to you, O house of Israel.

2Thus says the LORD, Do not learn the way of the nations, And do not be terrified by the signs of the heavens although the nations are terrified by them;

3For the customs of the peoples are delusion; because it is wood cut from the forest, the work of the hands of a craftsman with a cutting tool.

4"They decorate it with silver and with gold; They fasten it with nails and with hammers so that it will not totter.

5"Like a scarecrow in a cucumber field are they, and they cannot speak; they must be carried because they cannot walk! Do not fear them, for they can do no harm, nor can they do any good."

6There is none like You, O LORD; You are great, and great is Your name in might.

7Who would not fear You, O King of the nations? Indeed it is Your due! For among all the wise men of the nations and in all their kingdoms, there is none like You.

8But they are altogether stupid and foolish in their discipline of delusion--their idol is wood!

9Beaten silver is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, The work of a craftsman and of the hands of a goldsmith; violet and purple are their clothing; They are all the work of skilled men.

10But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King at His wrath the earth quakes, and the nations cannot endure His indignation.

11Thus you shall say to them, "The gods that did not make the heavens and the earth will perish from the earth and from under the heavens."

12It is He who made the earth by His power, who established the world by His wisdom; and by His understanding He has stretched out the heavens.

13When He utters His voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens,and He causes the clouds to ascend from the end of the earth; He makes lightning for the rain, and brings out the wind from His storehouses.

14Every man is stupid, devoid of knowledge; Every goldsmith is put to shame by his shamed by his idols; For his molten images are deceitful, and there is no breath in them.

15They are worthless, a work of mockery; In the time of their punishment they will perish.

16The portion of Jacob is not like these; For the Maker of all is He, and Israel is the tribe of His inheritance; The LORD of hosts is His name.

Think about it! Behind every powerful physical thing stands the God of glorious power (the Creator). Behind every moment of physical beauty is the God of awesome beauty. Beneath every physical wonder is the God of awesome wonder. Above every moment of love there is the God who is the source and definition of all true love. Still, our sinful tendancy is to replace the spiritual glories of the Creator with the physical glories of the creation while forgetting the spiritual glories of intimate communion with the Lord of Lords, the Kings of Kings, the awesome Creator.

Tests, Tests, and More Tests

Yesterday I finally went to see a Gynecologist. I have always dreaded these appointments, but due to some pain I have had for over a year in my left back I felt I could not put it off any longer. Honestly, I'm not sure why I dreaded it so. Upon the examination Dr. Murray didn't find anything that was out of the norm. However, being that I have put off my yearly checkups he wants a full battery of blood work done, a mammography and a transvaginal ultrasound. Thankfully all these test can be done at our local hospital and I won't have to make trips to the coast to have these test done. Once all results are sent to Dr. Murray I will be contacted for another appointment, at which time he will review the results of the test and recommend where to go from there. I have all the tests scheduled as of this morning. The mammography will be done on July 11, the blood work and transvaginal ultrasound on June 28. Did I mention I hate blood work?

Parent Without Fear

Parenting can be a fearful experience. Our culture seems to think that the basic role of a parent is to protect our children. I do not totally disagree with that, however, we cannot parent in a constant state of fear. We must place our children at the feet of Jesus. He knows them much better than we do, because He made them. He loves them abundantly more than we could ever imagine. Even though we know that Romans 8:38-39 is not exculsively for us, but for is for our children as well, we hold on to our children as we possess them. Our children are a gift from God and are not our own. God has intrusted us to raise them, so whom better to seek wisdom and comfort from in raising them. We cannot raise them with a constant fear - they are not harm proof: we cannot prevent their pain, we cannot cushion them from every bit of consequence of their pain and we cannot make every decision for them. Do I worry about the choices my children will make? Absolutely! Yet, at the feet of Jesus is every answer I will ever need to raise them without fear. Some verses that help me lay that fear at His feet are:

When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me? "(Psalm 56:3-4) God takes care of his children. He is forever stronger than us.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9) He will be our children's constant companion.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains
quake at its swelling pride." (Psalm46: 1-3) Life may fall apart, we may apart,
our children may fall apart. Yet God promises he will be with us.

'Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.' (Isaiah 41:10) God gives us strength in our weakness
and strengthens our children to face the world.

So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. " (Matthew 6:34) As parents, we often anguish about our children's future, yet God holds their future just as he holds the future of the world.

Book Review: Feminine Appeal

Seven Virtues of A Godly Wife and Mother by Carolyn Mahaney

Feminine Appeal is based around what Carolyn Mahaney calls the seven feminine virtues listed for us in Titus 2:3-5: Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.

Mahaney breaks each characteristic in the verse into a chapter of it's own to discuss ways to cultivate it--loving one's husband, loving one's children, being self-controlled, being pure, working at home, being kind, and being submissive to one's husband. Mahaney carries out the command in the first part of the quoted passage: that older women teach younger women how to behave in a way that promotes the gospel by showing how it transforms lives - - through this book.

But why would a divorced mother be reading a book pertaining to the seven virtues of a godly woman and mother? First, as a mother of teenagers I still have much to learn and improve. Secondly, I am an older women that is to teach younger women how to live a life that promotes the gospel. Thirdly, I doubt I ever remarry but if it is God's will I want to be a godly wife the next time around.

This was an excellent book that will be helpful for both young women looking to live out their faith in their lives, and for older women who want to take up the challenge to provide both good teaching and good example to younger women.

Guarding our Children

Living in small towns I have always felt that my children were safe. Even so I keep a close eye on my children and have taught them the dangers of strangers. Last night while we were at Bubba's house the two girls, Jeri Lynne and Angela came to us and asked if they could walk down the park. We told them no since it was almost dark and explained that it wasn't safe for them to go. Recently we have heard of a child getting beat up in that park by other children over a bicycle, the cleaning lady at the local library was beaten badly and another child was picked up by someone abused and dumped at the park. So we know these things happen even in small towns. They asked if they could sit in the front yard instead, to which we agreed. A few minutes later the girls came inside with a lady behind them. The lady introduced herself to Bubba and told him she knew the girls and would like them to come over to her house to watch a movie. Alarms went off with him and he politely told her "no" and she left. After questioning the girls we learned she is a teacher at the school, they know her children and this has not been the first time she has asked them to her home. We talked to the girls and once again explained that people can appear to be nice to lure children into their homes and then hurt them. To say that it left Bubba and I with an uneasy feeling is an understatement. I pray that last night will teach the girls to be on guard at all times.

Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing

"New things will always come along. Many will be useless, some will be good, a few will be better - what's the one thing that's really best, according to God" (Living the Cross Centered Life by C. J. Mahaney - pg 14). This was part of the quote that Pastor Jonathan read prior to his teaching tonight. In his book Living the Cross Centered Life, Mahaney drives home the point that the gospel is what's really best. What matters is the gospel. . . Christ dying for our sins to grant us eternal life. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, "~ 1 Peter 1:3-4. This my friend is what matters. . . the living hope of an inheritance that will not change, will not be made unpure, and will not go away because of God gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins because of His great mercy. That in and of itself should make us cling to the Cross and make it the main thing in our lives. Oh that I would be caught up as never before in wonder over the love and grace of God.

A Mother's Pride

At some time or another I think every mother takes pride in her children. I am no different. But is it wrong to be proud of our children? When I see one of my children behaving in an appropriate manner, serving others, or achieving goals my heart swells with pride. Just today I was overcome with pride in my daughter. She has displayed acts of service today (not that she doesn't do it often, she does) and my heart began to swell. And as my heart began to swell, I heard a voice saying "And who are you boasting in?" It suddenly hit me. . . I was boasting in not only my child, but I was boasting in myself as well. Galatians 6:14 came to mind as I thought about this boasting. "But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the Lord has been crucified to me, and to the world." As I was meditating on this scripture I was convincted that it's not my child that deserves the glory it is Christ. For only by his grace has she been gifted to serve as she did today and other days. Yes, it's okay for me to point out to her that she did a wonderful job serving others today and that I am happy to see that gift in her, but I also need to make sure when I am encouraging her and thanking her that I point out to her that it is through Christ is willing to serve others.

Afterglow

Last night we hosted the youth afterglow in our home. Afterglows are held twice a month for any youth that attend the Sunday evening worship service. This gives the youth an opportunity to fellowship, eat and play games together at one of their homes (sometimes they are held at a Sunday School teachers or the youth pastor's home). We all enjoyed pizza, cookies, and a game of "In a Pickle". We had 4 youth including David and two of David's college friends, Tommy and David attend. Pastor Jonathan, Lori and Hannah were there as well. Angela joined us after going to the United Methodist Church youth group. Hannah fell in love with Whiskers and Vanilla. We had never hosted an afterglow until last night but look forward to hosting other ones in the future. Maybe we can convince some of the girls from our youth group to start attending since last night and previous afterglows seem to draw more boys than girls.

The Girls are Back in Town

After spending a week at Vero Beach, the girls are back in town! Angela went to Jeri Lynne's mom on Thursday, June 1 to spend a week at the beach with them in Vero. I knew Angela would be returning on Friday afternoon, but to my surprise Jeri Lynne came back as well. Jeri Lynne will go back to her mom's after Father's Day. It's good to have them both back home. Cheyene came over yesterday afternoon and all of them spent the night here last night and then we all went to Beau's baseball game today. After the game us girls decided to go to Royal Palm to see a movie. We enjoyed being together just us girls as David was hanging out with friends in town and Beau & Bubba had a Quinceañera to attend.

Arctic Edge Family Night

Family Night last night was great! The kids and their parents joined us as Pastor Jonathan presented the message of Salvation. Then we watched a powerpoint presentation of pictures from this week. Then the kids by class sang songs, recited memory versesthey learned from the week, and then enjoyed cookies and drink. We had a total of 80 enrolled this year with 8 professions of faith! Today is the last day and the kids will be learning that by listening to God, they can have courage to tell others about Jesus (Acts:1-21). Barbara Buker is our VBS Director and has done a wonderful job coordinating and overseeing VBS this week. I know that God has been glorified and many seeds have been planted in the hearts of the kids that were intrusted to us this week through the teachers that have served and the youth that have helped.

Day 4: Arctic Edge

Wow, we are on Day 4 of our Arctic Adventure. I can't believe that by this time tomorrow our adventure will be over. Tonight all the kids and their parents will join us for our Family Night. The kids will sing or do skits for their parents and we will view a slideshow of the week. Today the children learned by following Jesus, they can have courage to follow God's plan for their lives (Jeremiah 29:11).

Worship Rally

"Artie & Moose"

Singing Praises

David

Lori Brooks

Pastor Jonathan Brooks

Hannah Brooks

Day 3: The Arctic Edge

As we continue on the Arctic Adventure the children learned today that by believing in Jesus, they can have courage to confess Him as their Savior and Lord (John 3:16). We had 6 professions of faith today! Continue to pray for the teachers as teach this week.

Pray for Our Church

As I have mentioned in previous posts our Pastor and his family are moving to Edinburgh, Scotland. This past Sunday was their last Sunday with us. Not only are we going to miss them, but our church will be going through a transitional time as we search for the man God intends to Pastor our church. During this time I would ask that all who read this would be praying for our church during this time. Pray especially for our Youth Pastor, Jonathan Brooks, as he will be taking on other responsibilites as he serves as Interim Pastor. This will be a challenging time for him as he steps up to the added responsibilites as well as continuing to lead our youth. Pray also for his wife, Lori, as she supports and encourages him in this new role. Pray that they would have time as a family and that the Lord will raise up people to take on some of the responsibilities to help Jonathan in this time. Pray for our Staff Search Committee and our Deacons as they continue to interview potential candidates. Pray for our church members to be united and willing to serve where needed. Also, pray for me that I will be an encouragement to Jonathan and other leaders of this church and that I will be willing to serve wherever I'm asked to serve.

Day 2: The Arctic Edge

It was another great day at Vacation Bible School! We had 67 kids today. The teachers and helpers are doing a great job sharing the gospel with the children and teaching each day's lesson. Today's lesson taught that by trusting God, you can have courage to depend on Him not matter what happens (Esther 2:2 -18). Here are some snapshots from today.

David

Ryan, David & Tommy

Pastor Jonathan leading the Worship Rally

Diana & Nicholas enjoy being outside

David in Tommy's Arms Second grade class
Pre-K Class

Book Review: Humility: True Greatness by C.J. Mahaney

I have just finished reading Humility: True Greatness by C.J. Mahaney. I was amazed that this 170 page book could be packed with so much wisdom and biblical insight. Mahaney teaches why humility is important, what it looks like, where it comes from, and how to cultivate it in our lives. This book is biblical, helpful, and practical and it's also devastating for our pride when we heed its message. Mahaney never seems to stray too far from the heart of gospel. The book is divided into three parts which made it much easier to follow for me. The first two sections I have previously written about. The third part of this book book becomes extremely practical. Mahaney offers seven chapters of helpful suggestions which flesh out the biblical truth he has been teaching. Mahaney begins this practical section with this piercing comment: “It’s possible to admire humility while remaining proud ourselves. I’m very aware that it’s possible for me even now to be teaching on humility while neglecting pride in my own heart. And at this moment you may be deceiving yourself into thinking that you are making progress against pride simply because you are reading a book about humility.” Ouch! What a good reminder that we don’t grow through insight but through applying insight. While these seven chapters are an exposition of Mahaney’s “life list” of ways he cultivates pride. They are not to be followed legalistically but as wise suggestions. He encourages us to develop our own list and to purposefully put it into action.

How to Weaken Pride and Cultivate Humility (pg. 171-172)

1. (Always)Reflect on the wonder of the cross of Christ.
2. Begin your day by acknowledging your dependence upon God and your need for God.
3. Begin your day expressing gratitude to God
4. Practice the spiritual disciplines - prayer, study of God's Word, worship. Do this consistently each day and at the day's outset, if possible.
5. Seize your commute time to memorize and meditate on Scripture.
6. Cast your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.
7. At the end of the day, transfer the glory to God.
8. Before going to sleep, receive this gift of sleep from God and acknowledge His purpose for sleep.
9. Study the attributes of God.
10. Study the doctrines of grace.
11. Study the doctrine of sin.
12. Play golf as much as possible.
13. Laugh often, and laugh often at yourself.
14. Identify evidences of grace in others.
15. Encourage and serve others each and every day.
16. Invite and pursue correction.
17. Respond humbly to trials.

Martyn Lylod-Jones wrote the following about the surest way to pursue humility: There is only one thing I know of that crushes me to the ground and humiliates me to the dust, and that is to look at the Son of God, and especially contemplate the cross.

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Nothing else can do it. When I see that I am a sinner. . . that nothing but the Son of God on the cross can save me, I'm humbled to the dust. . . Nothing but the cross can give us this spirit of humility. (pg.66)

The Arctic Adventure

Today we started our Arctic Adventure! No, the kids and I are not vacationing in the arctic. However, the kids at Vacation Bible School are trekking north with us to the Arctic Edge: Where Adventure Meets Courage. Based on Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." ,they will test their limits in the frozen frontier (although in South Florida it's hard to pretend it's arctic weather) and they will gain courage to follow Jesus in the everyday challenge of their lives. Today's lesson was based on 1 Kings 18:1-2, 17-39, where the kids learned that by knowing God, they can have the courage to show others that the Lord is God. This is the week that I always look forward to every year. This is a great outreach for our church and it's wonderful seeing these children with wonder and excitement in their eyes as they learn about Jesus. David has been helping with Vacation Bible School since he has been in our church youth group. This year he is helping co-teach the 3rd grade and doing skits during the Worship Rally. He will also prepare the PowerPoint presentation for Family Night on Thursday. He stays busy all week and loves every minute of it.

David as "Artie"

Reflections

Today all the staff along with their spouses & children went to the Clewiston Inn for a Staff Lunch. It will be our last Staff Lunch together with the Bridges. As we enjoyed our meal together, we shared about the times God has blessed us with over the past 3 years. We laughed at the funny things we remembered that have happened while Tim has been our Pastor and Administrator. When God called Tim and Krisy to First Baptist Church I was the only staff member other than a former custodian. Jonathan & Tommy came after Tim. After lunch today I did some reflecting of my own concerning Tim and his ministry at First Baptist Church. In a short time after they came our family grew to love them. Through their ministry and friendship we have learned so much. It is seldom these days to see a young couple that love the Lord the way they do. It is one of the first things you come to know about them as you develop a relationship with them. They have been through surgeries, illnesses, and family problems with us and prayed for us unfailingly. As I reflected on our time together I recall their service and their wisdom. There isn't enough words to describe what they mean to us. If I have learned nothing else from the Bridges it is this " But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." (Galatians 6:14). For I have seen them live this verse out in their lives. Then I think of the laughter, oh the laughter! So many times Pastors are thought of as serious, stanch, etc. But Tim proved that Pastors can be pastors and still laugh and have a good time.

Pastor Tim as a sumo wrestler
Pastor Tim as the Samurai
Pastor Tim & Jonathan portraying Ninjas

Tim's First Vacation Bible

Gainfully Employed

David started his first part-time job today. When he found out that his friend, Tommy, would be resigning from his job at our church he talked to several of our Deacons about applying for the job. Tommy is our custodian and is moving to West Palm Beach in the fall to attend Palm Beach Atlantic University. After much discussion among our deacons they decided that this job is better suited for an older individual, howver they offered David part-time employment for the summer doing odd jobs around the church that have needed to be done. David accepted the position with excitement. He will be working 32 hours a week doing things like pressure washing, painting, etc. David loves being at the church and it's a bonus as it helps out with transportation getting him to a job (since we will both be going to the same place). Not to mention he's working where he enjoys being the most!

Series Tied 1-1

Today was our 2nd annual Parent/Youth Softball game at Sugarland Park Complex. The youth tied the series 1-1 with a win against the adults (13-12). I'm still trying to find the rule in slow pitch softball that says you can't steal bases. I tried stealing from 1st to second but was told that it was illegal. Oh well, it is a commandment after all so I'll let it go. At least I knew where 2nd base was (only kidding Lori, you played a great game). I'm amazed at the talent of the adults and so was David. He told his team mates in the dugout (while we were winning the game) that he couldn't believe they were letting a group of adults (most of them over 40 years old) beat them. The adults brought their own cheerleaders this year. Delaney and Hannah were in our dugout cheering for their mommies! It was great afternoon playing against these youth and worth every ache we are sure to have come tomorrow morning. After the game we enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and dessert.




Delaney explains the rules to Mr. Thall

Pastor Tim ready to make a "Grand Slam"

Farewell

Glen and Mary Pridgen graciously opened their home to the Deacons and their wives along with the staff of our church tonight to say farewell to Pastor Tim, Krisy and Delaney Bridges. Glen prepared a "country boil" that consisted of shrimp, sausage, potatoes, onions and corn on the cob. As with any Baptist gathering the food was outstanding and the fellowship was sweet. Pastor Tim and his family are moving to Edinburgh, Scotland where Tim will puruse his PhD. It is with mixed emotions that we say farewell to them next Sunday for the last time. It's exciting to see them follow the Lord's leadership in their lives yet at the same time we will miss their ministry and friendship. This past Sunday night the church held a Dinner on the Grounds in their honor. Several of our deacons and our youth pastor shared how they have touched the lives of our church. Bob Buker said it best when he said "I'm not going to talk about you (referring to Tim) because that is not what you would want, because it's evident in your lives that it's not about you it's about the Lord." We are forever thankful that the Lord brought them to First Baptist Church and placed them in our lives.

Angela's New Fashion Accessory

Angela has a new fashion accessory, however it is not the rave. We picked up her knee brace this morning before she went to her first physical therapy appointment. She says it is uncomfortable but stablizes her knee. Her first session of physical therapy went well and only took an hour. Del, her therapist, said he would start her out coming twice a week and then increase it to three times a week. He explained to us that she would be sore after the therapy but this would increase her other muscles and lessen the likelihood of her damaging anything else. He is also going to prescribe her some exercises to do here at the house.

Youth Cake Auction

Last night the First United Methodist Church of Clewiston held a Youth Cake Auction. The proceeds from this auction will go to finance the youth mission trip to Tennessee in July. Angela has been an active part of this youth group since Hurricane Wilma hit our community last year. Each youth was required to bake a cake or dessert to auction off. Angela choose to bake a Chocolate Chip Cake (recipe compliments of Lori Brooks). This was her first time baking a cake all by herself. Although we did not taste it, it looked yummy!

Prior to the auction, the youth group helped prepared dinner and set tables for Wednesday Night Dinner. This allowed them to get some community hours (they need a total of 40) needed to go on the mission trip. Following the dinner the auction was held. Angela's cake was auctioned off for $25.01. She said there was a chocolate cake that went for $130.

I didn't get any pictures of her cake before taking it be auctioned off, but David happened to take one of her mixing it up!

Being an Encourager

Webster defines "encouragement" as: to give courage or confidence to, to raise the hopes of, to help one by sympathetic advice and interest, to promote or stimulate. The primary way we encourage others is by the words we speak. Too often we aren't using our lips to encourage our children but instead we are tearing them down. It's not always what you say but what tone we use when we speak.

William Barclay once said, "One of the highest of human duties is the duty of encouragement. It is easy to laugh at men's ideas; it is easy to pour cold water on their enthusiasm; it is easy to discourage others. The world is full of discouragers. We have a Christian duty to encourage one another. Many a time a word of praise or thanks or appreciation or cheer has kept a man on his feet. Blessed is the man who speaks such a word."

Blessed is the mother who can offer a word of praise, thanks, appreciation, or cheer to her children. The Bible has much to say about the power of our words. James 3 compares the tongue to three relatively small entities that control something comparatively larger. First he compares the tongue to a bit in a horse's mouth - a very small piece of metal that steers a large animal to the left or the right, or brings him to a halt. Second he compares the tongue to a ship's rudder. And finally, James compares the tongue to a tiny spark that can start a forest fire.
While James warns that our words can cause great destruction, they can also spark growth and motivation. James 1:6 states, "the tongue [the words we speak] sets on fire the course of our lives." As mothers, our words have the power to change the entire direction of a child's life! What an awesome gift we can give.

Diagnosis

We got the final diagnosis on Angela's knee today. Dr. Churchill said the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is torn . There is bone bruising and fluid just as the MRI showed but the ACL is torn. Because her body is not finished growing he does not want to do surgery now, however he prescribed physical therapy for 1 month (2 - 3 times a week) along with a knee brace. We will see him again in a month to see how the therapy has helped. Whena sked how this would affect her activities in sports he said provided the therapy and the brace work she could participate in sports. Angela has decided on her own that she will take the season off from soccer this year and give her body the opportunity to heal.

Grasping Pride

I have currently started reading Humility: True Greatness by C.J. Mahaney. I have wanted to read this book since a friend of mine read it a couple of months ago. Although I am just beginning the book I have already come to realize that in order to be humble I must first grasp what it means to be proud. If you are like me, you will not readily admit to being proud or prideful. As Mahaney points out "none of us are immune to the logic-defying, blinding effects of pride. Though it shows up in different forms and to differing degrees, it infects us all. It's not if pride exists in my heart; it's where pride exists and how pride is being expressed in my life. But what exactly is pride. Mahaney explains it like this,"Pride is when sinful human beings aspire to the status and position of God and refuse to acknowledge their dependence upon Him." Talk about stepping on toes, more like stomped on them and twisted on top of them . Ouch! . "Pride", John Stott writes, "is more than the first of the seven deadly sins; it is itself the essence of all sin." Jonathan Edwards called pride "the worst viper that is in the heart" and "the greatest disturber of the soul's peace and sweet communion with Christ." Edwards also ranked pride as the most difficult sin to overcome and "the most hidden, secret and deceitful of all lusts."

Proverbs 8:13 says: "The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; Pride and arrogance and the evil way And the perverse mouth I hate." Why does God hate pride? Mahaney explains it like this,"Pride is when sinful human beings aspire to the status and position of God and refuse to acknowledge their dependence upon Him." John Calvin wrote, "God cannot bear with seeing his glory appropriated by the creature in even the smallest degree, so intolerable to him is the sacrilegious arrogance of those who, by praising themselves, obscure his glory as far as they can." There are numerous warnings from Scripture about pride and through these scriptures we can find an expression of God's mercy that is intended to lead us to the path of humility. Mahaney points out that true greatness as biblically defined is serving others for the glory of God.

As I've read the first 59 pages of this book I have reason to be discouraged and to stop reading, but even more I have reason to be encouraged to finish reading this book because I know and believe "the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." For there is motivation and purpose to be found in humility. We only have to read Isaiah 66:1-2; Thus says the LORD:" Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist," Says the LORD. " But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word.

MRI Results

Angela's MRI results were faxed to me this morning. That doesn't mean I understand it by any means of the imagination. I'll still have to wait until we see the orthopedist on Friday, May 19 before I understand the results totally. Which I did make a phone call to a friend that is in the medical field and he says it's only a bad bruise and that the small joint effusion means there is fluid on her knee. He said if there is the orthopedist might drain the fluid off the knee (I see me leaving the building if they do). However for those interested this is the results:

Findings: The cruciate liagaments are intact. The is no focal meniscal signal abnormality seen. The medial and lateral collateral ligaments and quadriceps and patellar tendons appear normal. There is abnormal signal in the lateral femoral condyle and lateral tibial plateau compatible with bone bruise. There is a joint effusion present.

Impression: Bone bruise, lateral femoral condyle and lateral tibial plateau. Small joint effusion.

lateral femoral condyle

Tibial Plateau

Book Review: Becoming a Titus 2 Woman

Peace does an excellent job of showing women our responsibility that is in found in Gods word. It is refreshing to find a book that deals with the often neglected mandate of the older women teaching the younger women on matters of God, husband, and children. She not only shows us clearly our responsibilities, but shows us how to biblically approach and love the younger women. We have watered down God's standard for women and even discounted the things He established because it doesn't fit the norm of society or what society tells us. It's my prayer that as Christian women we would mentor the young girls that we are in contact with daily.

"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." Titus 2:3-5

While Search Desiring God

I loved this article on Desiring God's website. I love this part in particular. . . we must understand how our sinful human hearts and minds work. One profound Biblical insight we need to know is that our heart exploits our mind to justify what the heart wants. That is, our deepest desires precede the rational functioning of our minds and incline the mind to perceive and think in a way that will make the desires look right. It is an illusion to think that our hearts are neutral and incline in accordance with cool rational observation of truth. On the contrary, we feel powerful desires or fears in our heart, and THEN our mind bends reality to justify the desires and fears.

How often do we try to justify our actions?

Softly and Tenderly

Isaiah 55:8 reads “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. And Psalms 30:5 says, "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning."

These scriptures, along with others, came to mind last night as I learned of the tradegy that took place in my sister-in-law's family. Though I nor that family can comprehend why something like this happened I rest in the knowledge that My Savior, the one that creates life and holds it in His hand, knows why and has a purpose for each event that takes place in our lives. That same God is the God that can turn our weeping into joy. I pray that this family will find comfort in the days to come and for the family members that do not know Christ, I pray that they would call out to Him now. For there is nothing too small or horrible that you can't bring to Jesus. He desires to have a relationship with you.

Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me;
See, on the portals He's waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.

Come home, come home,
Ye who are weary come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!

Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading,
Pleading for you and for me?
Why should we linger and heed not His mercies,
Mercies for you and for me?

Time is now fleeting the moments are passing,
Passing from you and from me;
Shadows are gathering, death-beds are coming,
Coming for you and for me.

Oh! for the wonderful love He has promised,
Promised for you and for me;
Tho' we have sinned He has mercy and pardon,
Pardon for you and for me.

Edifying Words

Currently I have been reading "Becoming A Titus 2 Woman" by Martha Peace. In this book are many examples of how to disciple younger women. It addresses the older woman's character as well as her mandate and God-given privilege to disciple young women. I am now on Chapter Five of this book and it has taken some time to get that far, as it's one of those books that you can't simply just read. It's convicting to say the least and I have found myself meditating on her word's which are taken straight from Titus 2:3-5.

One chapter in particular has really struck me. Chapter 4 is entitled "Her Character" in which Peace considers three characteristics of the Titus 2 woman. "Older women likewise are to reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored".

The first characteristic that Peace speaks of that struck me was how we are to guard our words carefully. 1 Timothy 3:11 says, "Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things." Now there is nothing wrong with talking but too often we forget to guard our words and as I have heard said, "what comes up comes out." Too many times I have not thought about what was about to come out of my mouth and the result was that I ended up offending someone. Peace points out that the biblical criteria for the words I speak should be: to speak edifying words, speak truthful words, and speak good repute words.

Edifying Words: These words build up others. Such words are honoring to God and have an eternal purpose and worth. When speaking to anyone our desire should be to help the other person be like Christ.

Truthful Words: It is not an uncommon occurance today for people to lie. And sadly it is accepted in the world today. There are times when we aren't intentionally lying, but by omitting a part of a story or by being deceitful in some other way we are in essence lying. It is so easy to fall into the trap of gossip or even telling a downright lie. Peace cautions that even when we are telling the truth, we can still be gossiping and painting the other person in a bad light.

Good Repute Words: These words do not lead to slander and gossip. In fact they think of the other person's reputation. If it's something that will make them look bad, then go to them in private and speak to them about it. And don't go with that "holier than thou" attitude either. Be gentle and loving, but at the same time truthful, clear, and straight forward. Give them hope not despair.

I love the advice from Peace and her honesty within this chapter. The easiest way to speak edifying words, truthful words, and good repute words is simply by not talking too much! If we talk long enough we are eventually going to say something we shouldn't be saying. This is where I need to do some serious work. . . keeping my mouth shut!

All Around the World

Clewiston Performing Arts Center presented their annual Spring Recital, "All Around the World", yesterday afternoon at the Clewiston High School Auditorium. Children ranging from 3 years old to 15 years old performed tap, jazz, ballet and tumbling. These children are amazing to watch as they perform for their parents and the community. Their adult instructors and teenage assistants work diligently all year and their dedication shows each year at the recital.

Spring Cleaning 2006

The City of Clewiston sponsored their first Spring Cleaning today. Over 150 people came together in our community to pick up trash from the roadsides in our "sweet town". We all met at the youth center at 7:30 this morning to receive our assignment, trash bags, and breakfast. Then we headed out to our various destinations to pick up trash until 11:00 a.m. Various groups from the community included some of First Baptist Church Youth Group, a Senior Adult Sunday School Class from First Baptist Church, the Methodist Church, Sugar Realty, Lions Club, Camp E-Tu-Makee, Clewiston High School Students, and City Employees. After cleaning up our assigned areas we returned to the youth center for lunch, a drawing for tickets to the local movie theatre (donated by the owner), and the awarding of a prize for the most unique trash collected. Dana Jo Alley won the prize for the most unique piece of trash (a 1961 Mountain Dew bottle).

I joined our youth group for the day. My hat goes off to this young group of men and their hard work this morning. It was wonderful to see them out participating in a community event and giving back to the community. They demonstrated service to others as well as their humor. Laughter could be heard from all of them instead of grumbling. I think they think twice now before throwing something along the roadside.

A big thank you to Sean Scheffler for organizing this event. And to quote Rick Miller, City Commissioner, "this is what a community is all about. . . people coming together."

First Baptist Church Youth Group

Update on Angela

Angela's knee is still swollen today. She tried to go to school this morning but had to come home because of the pain. We went to the primary care physican for him to check it out. He pushed, pulled and tried to move it around. She let him know that it was very painful when he was doing so. He suggested that stay on the crutches for a week, alternate heat and ice, take Advil or Motrion for the pain and return for him to re-check it in a week. At that point he will be able to better access the knee and decide if a MRI is necessary. He said a lot times that these type injuries will take a week to 6 weeks to heal. If he decides a MRI is needed he will then refer us to Pediatric Orthopedics in Fort Myers.

Player Down

Tonight we traveled to Moore Haven for Angela's softball game. Unfortunately as the game began so did the rain. We sat in the dugout for 15 minutes before the rain stopped. Then it was time to play ball. In the first inning with Angela at first the batter hit a fly ball to her. She called the ball but missed it so she started to run after it and in the process turned her knee. Down she went with a scream. After finally getting her calmed down the assistant coach carried her to the dug out and put ice on it. The other team had called for an ambulance, but once we looked at it closely we decided to ice it down and call of the ambulance request. She toughed it out in the dugout through the rest of the game and cheered her team to victory (9-7). Luckily we have crutches from previous injuries and will see if the swelling goes down tomorrow. If not we will call our primary care physican and get a referral to the peditratic orthopedist in Fort Myers.

When I'm an Old Lady

When I'm an old lady, I'll live with each kid,
And bring so much happiness...just as they did.
I want to pay back all the joy they've provided.
Returning each deed! Oh, they'll be so excited!
When I'm an old lady and live with my kids
'll write on the wall with reds, whites and blues,
And I'll bounce on the furniture...wearing my shoes.
I'll drink from the carton and then leave it out.
I'll stuff all the toilets and oh, how they'll shout!
When I'm an old lady and live with my kids
When they're on the phone and just out of reach,
I'll get into things like sugar and bleach.
Oh, they'll snap their fingers and then shake their head,
When I'm an old lady and live with my kids
When they cook dinner and call me to eat,
I'll not eat my green beans or salad or meat,
I'll gag on my okra, spill milk on the table,
And when they get angry...I'll run...if I'm able!
When I'm an old lady and live with my kids
I'll sit close to the TV, through the channels I'll click,
I'll cross both eyes just to see if they stick.
I'll take off my socks and throw one away,
And play in the mud 'til the end of the day!
When I'm an old lady and live with my kids
And later in bed, I'll lay back and sigh,
I'll thank God in prayer and then close my eyes.
My kids will look down with a smile slowly creeping,
And say with a groan, "She's so sweet when she's sleeping!"

Sugar Festival

Saturday was the 20th annual Sugar Festival. It was a beautiful day to get out and enjoy the entertainment, arts and crafts booths, and food. The kids enjoyed walking around visiting with friends, watching the bed races, eating the food and checking out all the antique cars. Bubba and I, along with Steve and Pearl enjoyed just sitting around listening to Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton.

Moving Day Has Arrived

Moving day for my mom, dad, sister and brother-in-law has arrived. My parents left on Tuesday to stay at my oldest brother's house until their new house is ready for them to move into. My sister and her husband have been overseeing the moving company since Tuesday and she called earlier this afternoon to say they were on the road going to their son's house. They should be settled into their new home in Tallahassee by this time next week. Fredia and Andy spent the night at our house last night since their bed had already been loaded onto the moving truck. We enjoyed having them with us.

It is a bittersweet time for the kids and I. We are going to miss having family in town, but know that they will be happy in Tallahassee. Especially my parents since they will be back in the area they have lived their entire life. When I called Daddy today to see how they were doing they were at my uncle and aunt's house visiting them and then they were going by to see a member of the church before going by to my brother's house. I could tell by the sound of my dad's voice that they were happy to be home again where they are able to go see old friends, relatives and go to church where they have been members for over 20 years. Even knowing all of them will be so happy, we still miss them already!

Happy Birthday Ken

Today 37 years ago I was blessed with a baby brother. Through the years we have grown closer and closer. Happy Birthday Ken! I love you bunches!

Easter - What Is It Really About ?

As we approach this Easter Sunday I pray we will not get wrapped up in the world's celebration of Easter. I pray that we will each remember why we celebrate this Sunday each year. It has nothing to do with a bunny, eggs, and candy. Easter celebrates the fact that we can meet the risen Christ and our lives can be different. For without the resurrection of Christ our faith is worthless. Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty. Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up - - if in fact the dead do not rise. For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! - 1 Corinthians 15:12 - 17

Monday Night at the Fields

I am exhausted this morning! After work I went to the baseball fields to watch Angela, Brock and Jeri Lynne play ball. Brock's game started at 6:10 p.m. and the girl's games started at 7:00 p.m. We didn't get home until 10:00 p.m. Brock lost his game (16-10), Angela lost her game (9-7), and Jeri Lynne won her game (20-15). With Bubba being out of town I watched some of all their games. They are all such good athletes. Angela pitched the entire game last night. She is improving each game. She struck out more players last night than she did on Thursday night. She collided with a runner going to second and whacked her chin pretty good. Luckily there is no ugly bruise there this morning! Jeri Lynne hit the ball really well last night (she was 5 for 7). Brock smacked one out into left field for a double! All in all it was a good night at the fields and well worth being tired this morning.

Play Ball!

Softball season has officially started. Her teamed traveled to Moore Haven last night for their first game. Angela was short stop for 5 innings and finished the game pitching. She was 4 for 3 but unfortunately was stranded on base each time. Last night was the first inning she has ever pitched. She walked more batters than she struck out but with practice I'm sure she was get the hang of it. Their team lost 12-3. This week and the weeks to follow will be consumed with softball and baseball as we will not only be supporting her during her games, but will be supporting Beau, Jeri Lynne, and Brock as they play their games. I forgot to take my camera to any of the games this week but promise to post pictures of future games.

Nanny 911 - Want to Learn How to Raise Perfect Kids?

I'm ordering this book! NOT But someone happens to think it might be a great resource for me and a friend. My friend was actually told that she needed to call Nanny 911 to come to straighten her and her daughter out. Not 2 hours later this same person was telling me that I needed to put a leash on my daughter. I can take criticism from anyone as long as it's done in a kind way. But I will get very defensive when you start telling me that what I am doing is not the right way it is to be done. I know as a mom I'm still learning each day and I'm always open to suggestions. In fact, I constantly seek guidance from friends, my parents, my sibilings who have older children and from God's word. And many times when I've sought others for advice it wasn't always what I wanted to hear. Sometimes it was convicting and made me examine myself and to listen to what was being said. I appreciate people being willing to give advice (even in cases where I haven't asked for it), but what I don't appreciate is someone being rude and hurtful when they do so. Even now after being the one that was made to feel like a failure I'm examining myself to see if I've done someone else like I was done. If I have I am so sorry. I want to be an encourager to others not someone that insults.