Desiring More

The End of an Era

2010-01-27T22:44:00.003-06:00

I'm not sure if there is even a reason to type this since my blogging has ceased and I know no one checks this anymore. If you do... here's an update: Sadly, I'm closing this blog. No more posts will be made. The good news: Me and my pastor Matt have decided to co-blog together. I can honestly say this will be not only more entertaining but also more edifying as we share our views on theology, ministry, and marriage that we discuss 90% of everyday. Please check it out here. Be a follower, leave comments, learn (mainly from Matt), and laugh (mainly at me). Plus, you'll get a unique look at our relationship as we seek to train families for a lifestyle of worship. I'm dropping a tear right now... but I must say it: Thank you to all 3 of the faithful followers. Goodbye. See you at www.thebaldandthebearded.blogspot.com

Friday 5

2009-11-13T12:36:00.002-06:00

I'm taking today off. So what have I done? I watched the Bruce Lee Story and Pearl Harbor. I came away with 2 conclusions: 1. Bruce Lee is a beast; and 2. It would have sucked to be Ben Affleck and be supposedly dead then come back to the love of your life and fine your best friend shacking up with her.
The weather is absolutely amazing... I should be outside instead of wasting all this time watching stupid movies.
I'm preaching next Sunday night. I love to preach.
Me and Megan have been working out with Matt and Jessica (Pastor and Wife). I really wished working out was one of those deals where you saw a difference after the first week... It would be so much easier to go then.
Been practicing my Mixed Martial Art skills out on JP. He wanted to fight the other day and started talking smack. I didn't feel like it so I asked, "Are you sure you want to ride this train right now boy??" He responded with a cocky, "Choo Choo..." Then he punched me in the nose. I would tell you guys what I did, but I don't need any calls from child services.

It's In Your Underwear

2009-11-09T09:11:00.002-06:00

JP is a funny kid. The older he gets, the more he understands, and I love nothing more than to sit down with him and have a conversation. Even before Megan and I had JP, I would picture myself having those deep talks with him.

But I guess I overestimated his ability to comprehend:

My parents were here Saturday, and they wanted to take JP and buy him a new toy. I told JP he could only go if he brought me his money (I have been giving him a dollar every once in awhile) and helped buy the toy. You know... I'm trying to teach the boy some responsibility... toys cost money. Anyway, he takes off running to his room excited to get his money. He comes back asking where his money was. Megan didn't like his hiding spot so she moved it and put it under his underwear in his drawer. So when he asked where it was, Megan confidently said, "Baby, it's in your underwear." JP runs back to his room... gone for a few seconds... and he comes back saying no it's not!! So the argument begins: "It's in your underwear... No it's not... Yes it is... No it's not!!!" Finally, JP confident in his statement drops his pants (and his underwear) and says, "See MOM!! I told you!!"

JP is a funny kid

Q & A

2009-11-03T12:13:00.002-06:00

I spent some time on Challies.com today...maybe my new favorite website. I read several interviews he had done with people like John Bloom. I thought to myself, "Hey!! It would be cool to be interviewed." Then reality struck and I soon remembered that I'm not that important. If I was though... these are some of the questions I would hope to be asked and their answers.

1. What did you do before you came to Ebenezer?

- I've been in the ministry for the past 6 years. I've served at Louisville Baptist in Louisville, AL; First Baptist in Abbeville, AL; and Southern Heights Baptist in Berryville Arkansas. God in His amazing sovereignty has sent me through these places to grow in very specific areas of my life and I'm deeply thankful for that. A need for good theology has been the biggest thing I've learned from serving in the churches. I've made amazing friends and seen God change hearts. Good Times

2. What kind of Bible do you use?

- The English Standard version is my favorite. New American Standard is also great... it just doesn't flow as well to me. I did receive my first King James Version the other day so I'm pretty excited about that. Don't make fun of me

3. What do you do for fun?

- My wife and kids are the coolest, funniest people I know, so I definitely like to spend as much time with them as I can. Golf, basketball, fantasy sports, reading, and good movies I really enjoy,

4. What do you do during the week?

- Contrary to popular belief that youth pastors do nothing but speak on Wed. nights and go on trips, I work... a lot. I read a lot of blogs and watch a lot of youtube videos to stay updated on the cultural events that may effect our students and learn how to instruct them into godly living. I prepare messages, write curriculum, and plan events. I have the best job in the world where I get to be Gospel-centered in everything I do.

5. If you weren't in the ministry, what would you do?

- For sure play in the NBA. But if they were too blind to see the talent before them, I would like to work somewhere doing maintenance work. Fixing things makes me feel more like a man. Or work in a bookstore.

6. Who are your favorite authors/preachers?

- John Piper, Spurgeon, Matt Chandler, Mark Driscoll, CJ Mahaney, Francis Chan, Kent Hughes... there are tons. I don't by any means agree with everything all these guys say (Piper is probably the closest) but there are many things I glean from each. Guys like Paul Washer, Leonard Ravenhill, and any of your youtube sermon jam guys are great clip getters...

7. Who are the most influential people in your life you personally know?

- I've learned a ton from a lot of people. My dad taught me how to work... even when you don't want to because it is our job to provide for the family. Michael Whitt was the first person ever to show me how to read the bible correctly and what good theology is. Andy Blankenship taught me that there are hills worth dying on. Phillip Weems showed me authentic worship goes past music and spills into lives. Ryan Johnson and Greg Key are the pinnacle of youth pastors. David Bradshaw teaches me constantly the calling of godly perseverance. Matthew Cook is teaching me how to preach with Scriptural authority. My wife taught me humility and submission. I could do this all day... I'm blessed.

8. Favorite Music?

- Gospel Centered... Shane and Shane, David Crowder Band, Fee, Charlie Hall, Jesus Culture, Hillsong, The good stuff. Come Thou Fount, In Christ Alone, Marvelous Light, and I will Rise are some of my favorite songs.

9. What's you favorite passage of Scripture?

- Acts 20:24 changed my life. 2 Corinthians 2:17 where Paul proclaims that he is not like many, peddlers of God's word also is a huge scriptural motivation to stay faithful to the calling. 2 Timothy 2:15, Colossians 1, Philippians 3, Hebrews 11, 12, 13, James 1:26-27... Just to name a few.

10. Whats the first verse you remember memorizing?

- Well I wasn't raised in church, so the childhood classics of John 3:16 and Genesis 1:1 I really didn't know till later. Hebrews 4:12 is the first one I can ever remember... or maybe 1 Corinthians 10:13. One of those two.

Fall Festival Fun

2009-11-01T21:07:00.002-06:00

Me and Pastor Matt arguing about who is better looking

JP's Tennessee mullett flapping in the wind

Me being the Minister of Education/Students... and dominating little kids in musical chairs

Good Friends...

My white tiger (Megan says he's a zebra but don't listen to her) and my little Redneck Tennessee fan.

Picture Moments

2009-10-29T15:10:00.003-05:00

Proud Grandad

Proud Grandad walking JP back from peeing on the tree

Megan was quick to jump into action when the dumptruck got stuck in the yard

Proud... and beautiful mom

Funny face

I kinda like him...

Macbook entertainment

HA!!

Pastor's kids at the Apple Orchard

Pastor's kids getting messy with some suckers

Thursday Mind Dump

2009-10-22T15:13:00.002-05:00

I'm preaching Sunday and I'm pretty excited. 2 Corinthians 2:12-17. I'm not good with coming up with catchy title messages... so if you like read the passage and throw one down for me. You'll for sure get all the credit. Unless it's really good
Went to the Apple Orchard with the Senior Adults today. It's always good to spend time with them. They are sincerely sweet people who love the Lord.
My wife is amazing. She is still insanely gifted with keeping up with 2 kids, the house, church, and everything else while still dealing with me. I'm blessed
Playing basketball with some guys tonight. Good times
Being an Alabama fan in Tennessee is not really that difficult. Especially when Alabama is rolling.
Does anyone else's wife make things up?? They'll say you said something and you know it was never said??!! Thats frustrating.
Tennessee fans remind me a lot of Arkansas fans last year. "Oh, how we hate our quarterback!!"
I do miss the consistency of those Arkansas fans... Hearing those guys call the hogs even when they are down 4 touchdowns. Except maybe for Allen and Marci... They just looked disgusted:)

Words and Authority

2009-10-13T16:48:00.000-05:00

We are in the middle of revival right now at the Nezer. I really don’t like saying it that way. I guess the better way to put it is that we are in the middle of a hopeful revival time. The preaching has been off the chain though. Bro. Adam is preaching a series of messages on the “Power of God”. Sunday night has been my favorite so far as he talked about the Power of God in the Holy Spirit. We Baptists usually do not do a good job when it comes to the things of the Spirit... so I was delightfully surprised as he preached a solid message on the power of the Holy Spirit. We forget that God is way bigger than all our thoughts and comprehension.

These messages have also sparked a desire in me to get back to reading the Gospels. The life of Jesus is full of displaying the power of God. So I am in Mark this morning and I get really excited about a passage I read: 1:22 And they were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes.

SLAM!! Mark is writing this and telling us that while Jesus was teaching, people were blown away. The word ‘astonished’ here is “ekplesso” which literally means to be overwhelmed with amazement. He taught with authority, or “exousia” which means supernatural authority. Heck yes it’s supernatural!! We are talking about Jesus!!

The funny thing here when you read this is that although people were amazed at Jesus’ supernatural authoritative teaching... it was nothing like what they were used too. They always heard the scribes teach and this passage in Mark leads us to believe that when they went to hear these scribes teach... they were just there listening. Nothing was happening in their hearts because the scribes were teaching with no authority. AND apparently they were teaching the Old Testament Scriptures wrongly since they obviously point to Jesus Christ and they were not getting it. There was a difference between the teaching of Christ and the scribes.

One of the reasons so many churches are not experiencing revival at this time is simply due to the horrendous, man centered, non-authoritative preaching in churches. So many messages focus on self-help, better your life themes and we lose the authority we are commanded to preach with. Titus 2:15 tells us- “Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.” We are commanded to preach under the authority of Christ. We are not doing that when we read a text at the beginning of the message and the ramble on how to improve your time at the workplace for 35 minutes. Everything must be Gospel-Centered.

Why am I writing this?? I’m not totally sure, but here are a few of my suggestions (like they really matter):

Preachers, stick to the text. I promise you that there is no possible way you can come up with something more powerful, convicting, or profitable than Scripture. Read it, know it, exegete it, and preach it... with all authority because you are preaching God’s breathed Word instead of your own.
Believers, find a church where the pastor never leaves the text. You will be taught, rebuked, comforted, blessed, and edified when you sit under Godly, prayer-sought preaching.

Sweet Conviction

2009-10-07T14:15:00.000-05:00

Man, it’s been a tough morning. I’m studying the Book of James right now, and it’s getting to me. God is just using His word to really humble me. You know those times in your life... When everything seems to be good. Good personal bible study, good relationships, good marriage, good health, good church, good pastor, good worship, good good good... everything just seems to be good. A lot of these could even be described as going great. It’s so weird to say that too since it was only a little over a week ago I was wondering if we would ever have a house, if John Timothy would be healthy, and if I was doing the right things. God has just really blessed me man... I mean insanely blessed me. So the moment I began to get a little too confident in my life, God directs my heart to begin studying one of the most difficult books in the Bible, James.

This Book should have one of those advisory warnings in the beginning. I do believe it is completely and divinely inspired, but would have it really hurt for James to go back to the beginning page after writing and re-reading this book to put a warning that reads something to the effect: WARNING!! This book will most likely reveal the deepest parts of your still dark heart and leave you feeling like complete crap?? I can’t imagine the look on James’ face after he wrote this and then went back to read it over. “Wow, umm... Lord? Do you think maybe we could lighten this up a little?? Talking about hardcore!!”

It’s so funny how God moves. I’ve spent the last few days pouring over the words in chapters 1 and 2. Here are some of my “Wow, that just slapped me in the face passages”:

1:2-4
1:6-8
1:26-27
2:1-4
2:10
2:17
2:19-20
2:26

To be honest, I could have just listed every verse in these 2 chapters, but I wanted to at least make sure I pointed these out to you. After studying this morning I just really became overly convicted of how dirty I am. Then after much repenting, I just became insanely thankful. The phrase “What sweet conviction” just kept exploding in my heart. You see, without this hard teaching in Scripture and without the conviction of the Holy Spirit... I would have just remained in my sin. I long to be holy for the God who called me is Holy. I’m in sincere thanks because God divinely inspired James to write this most difficult passage to swallow. Don’t run from tough passages. Don’t become depressed in your conviction. Rejoice, I say again Rejoice!! For the God who loves you and called you is simply sanctifying you for His glory. Oh what sweet, sweet conviction!!

Watch Your Mouth Boy

2009-10-04T14:38:00.001-05:00

Mark Driscoll said one of the most profound things I can ever remember hearing come from a man’s lips at last years Desiring God Conference. The whole conference centered around words, speech, and the Glory of God. I still remember it so clearly. He said that once you speak a word... it’s out there. There is no retracting it. There is no bringing it back. It’s been spoken and there is no blessed delete button. For someone who talks a lot, that was a pretty hardcore statement and it hit me hard. I’ve always talked, but never did I realize how much I talked till Driscoll dropped the bomb on me. Talking is not a bad thing in itself... It’s just that the more you talk the larger chance you have to say something stupid. Oh, how many times has a word been on my tongue that I’ve known as soon as it left my lips that it probably was the dumbest thing I’ve ever spoken.

Proverbs is pretty amazing. I mean it is divinely inspired and all. The practicality of this book blows me away and it truly reveals God’s heart and desire for us to live pure, holy lives that glorify Him. Proverbs 10:19 has become my Proverb for today: When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

I haven’t said anything dumb today. My wife, who hears all of my word vomit, would be blown away by that proclamation. I’m just starting to understand that when speaking... less is more. Webster’s defines prudent as someone who acts with or shows care and thought for the future. I care about my marriage... I’ll speak prudently. I care for my ministry... I’ll speak prudently. I care for my children... I’ll speak prudently. I care for my friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, the lost, THE GLORY OF GOD... I’ll speak prudently.

She is Woman

2009-09-30T13:34:00.000-05:00

So it starts today... I’m wondering exactly how it will go. You see today both sets of grandparents are leaving. I’m in the office working. Therefore, my beautiful wife is at home with the 3 1/2 year old and a 5 day old... all alone. I really haven’t thought about this much until I got at least 25 texts yesterday asking how JP was “handing the competition”. So far, Megan and myself has had 2 grandma’s doing work son. JP has had granddad’s running him around wherever he wants and playing whatever he wants. JP has spent the night at home only once since John was born. So to answer those texts... JP hasn’t had any competition. He has had more attention since the birth of John than he has gotten since he was 5 days old. Now in my head I picture Megan all alone with John and.... DUM DUM DUM!!! JP!! The most energetic, talkative, rambunctious, hungry, needy, bathroom going boy in the world. I think I need to run home now...

But then I think... I’m talking about Megan here. The mom of moms... She is woman. And I have the upmost respect and trust in her ability to parent 30 kids just like JP. I still remember the day she told me she felt called to be a mom. I was so proud. We had just gotten pregnant (you can read that as if I was pregnant too, but you know what I mean) and she was totally convicted over the God-placed desire in her heart. I told her there was no way we would make it financially. She said it was time to cut back. I said she would be soooo bored. She asked what could be more fulfilling than raising a child up in the Lord. So we started on our journey of sacrifice so she could fulfill her calling... being a mom.

God has been so good. We cut-off cable, God gave me a sweet lady named Mrs. Kristi Allums who wouldn’t allow me to live life without ESPN. God gave Megan a job where should only had to work one day a week at a bank just so she could get out and I could have a whole day with baby JP.

Why would I ever be worried about her now. David asked in Psalm 31:19 just how abundant was God’s goodness??!! After experiencing the life he had, deep in sin and in victory, David knew like no other the great grace of our God. God has placed this mom desire in her heart... He that began a good work in her with complete it. And through this major adjustment in our lives He will be sanctifying us. Sometimes it will hurt. Sometimes it will be amazing. Whatever God’s chosen method we will proclaim, “The Lord gives and the Lord takes away... Blessed be the Name of the Lord!!”

Update

2009-09-28T15:10:00.002-05:00

Well, we are back home from the shortest stay ever at the hospital. I mean I could have had a case of the sniffles and they would have kept me longer than they did Megan after she had John. Don't get me wrong... I'm thankful for only having to sleep a night and a half on a pull out bed in the hospital, but seriously... are they so confident that 24 hours of monitoring is all they need?? Oh well, I guess if we are capable enough to have a baby we are capable enough to drive back to the hospital if weird things start coming out of little man's tail. I'm just saying... it could happen after the first 24 hours.

John's doing great. He sleeps and eats. He hasn't cried since we got home yesterday afternoon and changed his diaper. He just kind of hangs out and every once in awhile he'll open his eyes and give you the, "What the heck are you staring at" look. JP is enjoying the grandparents and me and megan are just enjoying everything. The church has been incredible to call and come see us. I love these people.

I haven't had much time to work or study this weekend. Things are just crazy. So I'll just leave you with this little mind-blowing glimpse into John Calvin's life I read the other night in the hospital. I would have loved to hang out with this man:

Calvin's reticence reflects his humility and his desire to champion the cause of God and truth rather than to turn the Reformation into a personality cult. Calvin's seal, which he designed himself, says much about how he understood his own life and vocation. This seal depicted an open hand holding a flaming heart with the words prompte et sincer—"willingly and honestly"—written around the image. His ministry was a response to a divine summons. He offered his life and his gifts diligently, unfeignedly, and openheartedly to the service of Jesus Christ and his church.

A Thankful Mind Dump

2009-09-26T20:39:00.003-05:00

What a day. I really don’t even know where to begin. To be honest with you, of all the many things that went on today, Megan saying “Holy Crap!!” when her water broke may be the thing I remember most of all this. The look on her face, the tone in her voice, and her response to me when I busted out laughing (yeah, for her Christian testimony I’ll keep that to myself j/k). Megan is a birthing pro... She pushed through maybe 6 contractions and John was here. Looking at us wondering what the heck we made him get out of his comfortable womb for. JP sitting on his knees on the couch commentating everything and making Megan laugh in the middle of her pushes. We hung out till around 4:30 a.m. and the nurses took the little guy so we could get some sleep. Me and JP cuddled on the pullout and mom rested well. The in-laws came early so I went to get him from the nursery. They had the ugliest Tennessee hat on him that the nurses thought was hilarious... Corrupting my child is no laughing matter. It's been a good day... one of the best days. God was huge today... He is everyday but for some reason He seemed bigger and greater through all the circumstances. Excitement but calmness. Joy in Pain. Love. Life. Sweetness. Health. Stability. Peace. Families who have known us no longer than a month taking care of us and showing deep sincere love. People who have known us for years and still caring and praying even though the past has been difficult. God was big today, and I'm thankful to have been chosen before the foundation of this world to serve this big God. Not based on anything I've done but simply because His grace is so ridiculous. Now we are here... the last night in the hospital after and incredibly short stay... Megan laying in the bed. JP with the grandparents. John (who hasn't cried) resting in his bed. And me... sitting here writing this down so I will always remember what this moment felt like. Thankful that, even though the Sowell life is still a mystery on almost every level, I can always remember tonight and last night where God showed up like never before. We may not have anywhere to live yet:) But we have each other... and we have a loving Father who has adopted us and formed an intimate relationship with us through the Cross of Christ. And that... that's good stuff. And I'll always remember this feeling.

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow

Praise Him all creatures from below

Praise Him above all Heavenly Hosts

Praise the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

I Think My Water Just Broke

2009-09-26T01:08:00.002-05:00

So I'm sitting here in a delivery room at St. Mary's. JP is rolling around on the couch and Megan is numb saying she can't feel her legs:) I'm... Well I'm doing what I do: Blogging. So I thought I would give you a rundown of whats happened today.

- I worked on the house that is still not finished all day today.

- Megan came and clean and a little and then got completely stressed out saying, "I'm having this baby in a week!! I don't think we'll make it."

- If she only knew what would happen a few hours later.

- I took a nap. While Megan watched Bill O'reily... He's enough to put anyone in labor.

- I get in bed... where she is already.

- I can't go to sleep because I took an hour nap earlier

- She's says "Holy Crap!!"

- I say, "What's wrong??"

- She says, "MY WATER!!"

- Crap... I'll come back... It's time to push. I can't do anything:)

The Office

2009-09-23T07:39:00.001-05:00

I got a new spot. This is like town number 7 for me and in the previous 6 I’ve always had a spot. This is a spot of study, mental solitude, and usually a lot of snacking. My spots have been front porches, stairways, a fire escape, dirt road, and a mountain top. All were amazing, but I don’t think any of them match my new “spot”. A lot of “Youth Pastor Blogger” types would say it doesn’t get better than Starbucks... The cool, trendy place that it is. My current Pastor, Matt, is a major fan of Panera Bread for the simple fact that if you buy one cup of coffee it’s free all day long (no one drinks coffee like Matt). While Starbucks is trendy... I like to go against the grain. Panera is nice and quite... But I don’t like coffee. So today after the baby doctor visit I made my journey to my new spot. It’s a place where I can study for hours, be mentally abandoned in whatever I’m in, and can eat my absolute favorite meal. The place... Krystals!!

What else can you ask for??!!

Free WiFi- There’s hardly anyone ever there to tie up the bandwidth
Workspace- Big booths with enough table space for my Mac, Bible, and any other book I may be reading.
Drinks- Free refills
Food- It doesn’t get better than 2 Krystal burgers and 2 Krystal chiks.

So if there is day you need me and for some reason can’t get me... Check Krystals.

Bringing Blogging Back

2009-09-21T13:11:00.002-05:00

Yeah I know... It’s been years (or maybe months) since the last time I blogged. The reasons for the absence is really endless, and to be honest I’m not sure enough of you read this to absolutely care... but I like to humor myself. I’ve been so out of touch for so long, some of you may not even know we’ve moved. We’ve had tons of things going on and trying to fill you in on everything in one post is probably not the smartest thing to try and do, but I have never claimed to be the smartest person. So here we go in traditional Ricky style Attention Deficit Disorder bullet form:

We now live in Knoxville, TN where I am the Minister of Students and Education at Ebenezer Baptist Church. I’m still not sure what that means, but it sounds amazing:)
Megan and I have also been homeless since we made the move a month ago. We lived in a house (that was in the process of being sold and closed on) for the first couple of weeks until we had to get out of there. We have since been living in a house that is owned by a church members brother who lives in Poland maybe?? I’m not sure but it is furnished and these people have been amazing and are deeply, deeply loved and appreciated.
The good news is that another church member built a house and is selling it to us. We are waiting for the cabinets, floors, countertops, and a few other things to come in before we get to move into our own home.
I will never build a house...
John Timothy... the newest addition to the Sowell family... will be here October 5th. Megan has decided to be induced again. I would rather her water break while she was hitting a high note in the choir:) Wouldn’t that be exciting??!!
I bought a Mac... I love it like I do my child:) (I’m just joking... sort of)
The students here are great. We’ve fished, ate, played football and wiffle ball, spoons, and hit ping pong balls at each other with no shirts on. Good times.
I for sure miss my students and all of my adult workers in Berryville... and Heath and Lisa:)
My new Pastor, Matt, is insane. He is a worker approved by God, not ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. He studies, visits, loves, and blows in kids noses.
JP seems to be doing great here. He is digging AWANA and was one of the only cubbies who threw the football and knocked over the pin at rec time. I’m a proud dad.
Yes, I'm very aware that my blog says "cutest blog on the block". Marci called me out on this way back, but I can't seem to get it off even if I change my layout. So please hold all, "Ricky is such a dork" comments.
I'm not sure why I'm so excited about blogging again, but I really am pumped. Daily blogging like back in the day is a HUGE possibility.
Now that I have my Mac and Krystals has free WiFi... I’m bringing blogging back.

Pleasure Seekers

2009-07-16T10:12:00.001-05:00

Hedonism argues that pleasure has an ultimate importance and is the most important pursuit of humanity. According to hedonism, pleasure is all that matters. If we examine our lives today, most of us (if honest) would come to the conclusion that we live hedonistic lifestyles as we seek for ourselves the ultimate pleasures of this life. The problem with this lifestyle is simple… it is all like chasing after the wind. Solomon sought for himself every pleasure. He withheld nothing from his eyes and nothing from his heart. Laughter, hobbies, real estate, vacations, luxuries, entertainment, sex, wisdom, fame, and money… His conclusion? All vanity.

John Piper, who I greatly respect, read, and listen to often, classifies himself as a Christian hedonist as he seeks ultimate pleasure in the Creator alone. What is the difference here in his seeking and Solomon’s seeking?? Piper seeks pleasure in the lone pleasure Giver to ultimately exalt God for the giving of pleasure. Solomon sought stuff to fill voids in his life. Once we become completely satisfied in God alone, everything that is meant to bring pleasure: Nature, Art, Family, Friends, Sex, Community, Worship, etc. will actually start bringing satisfying pleasure because we understand and know the Giver and Supplier!! Our problem is that we are still seeking fulfillment in the pleasures instead of the Pleasure-Giver.

As I read through Kent Hughes’ “Set Apart: Calling a Worldly Church to a Godly Life” it is becoming more and more obvious that the church is seeking for itself pleasure. We want what we want, and that is clearest when it comes to worship. Bob Kauflin said, “The one thing that should be bringing unity in the church is the very thing that is dividing us. We should be unified in the exaltation of our Creator through song, yet we are too busy focusing on the style of exaltation instead of the One we are exalting.” Kent Hughes hit the nail on the head when he wrote, “Even worship is not exempt from hedonism as people go where worship is most pleasurable, imagining that the worship of God exists to make them feel good.” How many of us are guilty in thinking that worship is all about us “feeling good”?

My hope and prayer is that we can become unified. It’s not about contemporary or traditional, guitar or organ, hymn or praise song… It’s about exalting the One who desires our worship and who seeks our pleasure. We will find pleasure in worship when we find pleasure in Him alone.

Set Apart: Money

2009-07-15T10:30:00.001-05:00

I’m in the process of reading a new book that I’m extremely excited about. “Set Apart: Calling a Worldly Church to a Godly Life” by Kent Hughes. Kent Hughes has been one of my favorite authors since I was “made” by Michael Whitt (my former pastor who taught me more than college did) to read “Disciplines of a Godly Man”.

The 2nd Chapter was all about materialism. The whole concept of the book is how we as believers should be separated in every aspect of our lives from the world… we are called to live holy, yet our materialistic lives are no different than the consumer driven lives of lost people. John Stott said this, “Our blindness to materialism is similar to the western culture’s blindness to the sins of slavery in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Today we look back in amazement that Christian people could not see it for the evil that it was. And likely, future generations will regard our day with the same perplexity: How could they not have seen it?” Wow, how blind are we to our deep sins of materialistic idolatry??

“Setting ourselves apart from materialism has everything to do with the spread of the Gospel among the Nations. We cannot be like the nations and at the same time a light to the nations. A worldly church will not reach the world. If we live for the things of Sodom, how will we point others to the hill of Salvation”, says Hughes. We must, as redeemed believers, separate ourselves from the constant struggle to obtain more for ourselves. This has been one of the most convicting chapters of any book I have ever read. My desire is to be separated, but my desire to have “stuff” is blending me into a world that needs Jesus.

As I pray for Christ to bring freedom in my life, you to search your heart and see if you struggle with the sins of covetousness, materialistic idolatry, or lack of faith in God to take care of you. We are called to be set apart, and I believe one of the best ways to make our separation visible is to invest in eternal things where rust and moth cannot destroy.

I’ll leave you with some of the best advice I’ve ever read concerning how to treat money in your lives: “Money may be temporarily under my control. But I must always regard it as a wild beast, with power to turn on me and others if I drop my guard.”—Randy Alcorn

Confessions: Father/Son Workdays

2009-07-10T10:24:00.005-05:00

Confession time. Many of you know that I bring JP to the office with me a few days a week so Megan can work, see people in town, and just get out of the house. I don't mind him coming most of the time. He usually takes care of himself besides that whole, "Dad I really need to pee/poo" thing. Well, my confession today is simple: I usually do not watch him that closely, and today it was revealed to me why I may need to pay a little more attention.

He came up to me asking to draw, so I do what I always do... Give him a piece of paper and a pen and start back working. When I got up to walk over to Mrs. Rama's office... this is what I saw:

Yeah, Picasso had drawn all over his face and arms. And he thought it was hilarious. Don't worry though, Mrs. Rama came to the rescue with a wash cloth and soap and got him all cleaned up. I love that lady.

So I need to start watching him a little closer I admit. The scary thing was that there was chocolate all over his face!! Where did he get chocolate??!! Hey, don't judge me...

Picture Moment

2009-07-09T11:07:00.002-05:00

Life is good...

Teaching Scripture

2009-07-08T11:14:00.003-05:00

Tonight I'm taking the students to John 4. Most of us know something about the "Woman at the Well" but after listening to John Piper sermon several weeks back, I don't think that I'll ever look at this passage the same again. SO MUCH is packed in just the small amount that I'll be able to cover tonight. After working on this message, and actually getting excited while I was reading and typing and praying (seriously...I was shouting and doing my jerky dance sitting at my desk I was so moved by this passage), I began to wonder how many people sit in church services completely oblivious to the Word that is being spoken? And whose fault is it? The speaker? The listener? The Devil's? WHOSE??!! How many times have I spoken and never connected to the people whom I was communicating with? So I examined my early church years as a 9th and 10th grader. The majority of the Sunday mornings I spent in church were used to draw up basketball and football plays on the bulletin with my best buddy, Matthew.

Then one Sunday morning, Rev. Steve Poteat preached a message that connected with me. I still remember sitting there as he preached the text of Matthew 13. Verse by verse he gave us 5 facts of salvation that was in that portion of Scripture. He stuck to the text and he never left it. I never took notes during sermons, but that morning, compelled by the Holy Spirit, I tried to write every word. Why? What was the difference? There is amazing power in Scripture. It is Holy...Divine...Inspired by God.

I believe there are a lot of factors mixed in when people just flat aren't listening to the message. I believe we all play a part in it. I mean seriously, every Sunday morning as I'm teaching the text in Sunday School, I have a few adults who never hear a word (hmmm...guess who this is). Several things contribute to this wondering of the mind, but I believe we as teachers must stick with the text because it is way more captivating than anything we can come up with.

So tonight, we will stick CLOSE to the Word of God. I'm expecting big things tonight. 1. because we serve a huge God who is capable of changing hearts and 2. because Scripture is life-changing. Hebrews 4:12 tells us that it is living and active, able to divide the very soul and spirit. So whenever you are teaching or just talking to someone on the street about Jesus... Stick to the Text

Monday Mind Dump

2009-07-06T10:58:00.002-05:00

We have canceled our mission trip to Honduras. I'm really struggling with this. Maybe it was the right decision, maybe not, but I do know that there are some people who desperately need to experience foreign missions.
Also, the cancellation of this trip has made me seriously fight the flesh. God is definitely growing me right now as I learn to deal with things that I'll have to deal with as long as I'm in ministry (a.k.a. the rest of my life).
I'm extremely thankful to have had some very understanding and spiritually mature people that were involved in this trip. You guys rock my face off, and your hearts for sure made up for a lot of the other issues that I had to deal with.
On the lighter side of things... I have a JP story for you:

- Last Wednesday night as I was upstairs in our student service, JP got lose. I'm not sure if you understand how bad this is... When JP is on his own, he loses he forfeits any sense we may think he has. So Wed. night as they were coming back from the playground, JP decided to open the door to the adult bible study in the sanctuary. I wonder what went through his head next...

-"Hmm, these people are reading about Jesus. Maybe I should quietly close the door and fall back in line with my class."

- "I wonder how many laps I can make before someone catches me"

- "Does Daddy really need to work here?"

- "I wonder if everyone will laugh if I run on stage and do my awkward arm jerking dance that Grandma taught me?"

I'm not sure what went through his head but he decided to run a lap around church...during bible study... even though he has been told countless times not to and his life has been threatened. The story I got was that after turn two he trips over Bro. Scott's podium that is set up in the middle of the room. I bet as he was flying through the air he thought, "Crap, this was not such a good idea after all." He landed and was caught by one sweet merciful lady who apparently wants me to keep my job... Thanks Mrs. Gayle.

Those ladies who work with JP's age class will have a special place next to throne of Jesus.

Friday 5

2009-07-03T08:43:00.002-05:00

5 things I'm ready for...

I'm ready for Megan to have this baby. Bring on the late nights and dirty diapers.
I'm ready to win a game in Church Softball. Remind me again why we decided to have two teams??
I'm ready to teach about the Woman at the Well Wednesday night. You can be satisfied with the Living Water.
I'm ready to rearrange my office. I need some change.
I'm ready for next year's VBS. I love me some Jeff Slaughter dance moves... "I'm workin on my serve..." (shake hands from side to side with palms up and looking incredibly ridiculous at the same time).

Questions from Fayetteville...

2009-07-01T08:58:00.002-05:00

I drove to Fayetteville the other day alone. I had a ton of things I needed to do, and my journey lead me to several different places. These were the few questions I was asking myself throughout the day:

As I was walking into Hobby Lobby- "Can any man actually come in here and feel comfortable? This place seems to suck the testosterone out of you as soon as you walk in."
As I was driving by Chic-Fil-A wanting something to eat- "I just counted 17 cars waiting in the drive through line going to the building. That's not counting the cars wrapped around or the people inside. I know this place is good... but is it really THAT good?"
Walking in the mall trying to figure out what I wanted to eat- "Am I the only person who finds it hilarious to see an American man cooking in a Chinese restaurant?"
After I decided to eat at Boar's Nest BBQ- "Is it really necessary to charge $10 for a sandwich, fries and tea? We know there is cost to make this stuff, but exactly how much do they make??
After I found a strategic people watching seat in the food court- "Did God purposefully send me there to that place so I might share my faith with someone?"
While trying to eat my food- "Was placing the Bath and Body Works directly in front of the food court the best location they could find? My food tastes like Cucumber Melon."
While reading my Bible and praying at my table- "What does Paul mean when he says the Philippians are 'confirmers' of the Gospel?"

These are the types of questions I have to deal with daily... Don't judge me:)

Mind Dump

2009-06-29T08:56:00.002-05:00

Here are a few things on the agenda and running through my mind today...

I'm making my first solo trip to Hobby Lobby today. I'm a little nervous. I'm not sure if Webster has a word to describe the degree of hatred I have for this store, but I have to go to get some craft things for Honduras. Oh, the sacrifices you make in the ministry.
The VBS family show was a success last night. JP managed to keep his hands off his...well, you know... and didn't scream out, "HEE HEE!!" while spinning around and bouncing on his toes. I was way proud of my buddy. Bro. JP can always bring a smile to my face.
The reason he behaved so well last night was a deep fear in losing his life. We sat on his bed before we left and had a "talk". He was so wanting to do the right thing...Here's a funny story:

After the horrible VBS songs were sang, they told the kids that as soon as they got their certificate to go sit by their parents. Well, Megan was on stage passing out certificates and I was in the sound booth. JP got his certificate and took off running down the aisle waving his paper yelling, "Daddy!! Daddy, I have to come with you!!" I look at him and point for him to go back to the front of the church and sit. Before I can say anything to go along with my point, JP turns the quickest 360 I have ever seen in my life and begins weaving through the crowd to go sit where he originally was. Poor kid... he just wanted to do right.

I'm pretty excited about the food I'm going to eat while in Fayetteville. I'm not sure where I'm going yet, but I guarantee it will be amazing.
I got a lot of things going through my head right now as far as things I want to teach on next. We have got to finish going through John's Letters, but I really want to jump back into John's Gospel chapter 15 and hit hard the vine and the branches... I guess we'll see.
I started running again last night. I ran around a mile and a half and then walked one. Anyone know how cure bad knees and ankles?
Well, staff meeting and the Fayetteville... good day ahead.

Friday 5

2009-06-26T10:57:00.002-05:00

Spent some good time in the Word this morning. Psalm 27:13-14, "I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord."
What does it mean to "wait for the Lord"? "Wait" in Hebrew is "qawa"-- to hope in, put trust in, to wait with eager anticipation!! We must daily renew our hope, replace our trust, and eagerly wait for Jesus.
Listened to some good worship this morning (it was a good morning if you couldn't tell). Charlie Hall's slow version of Marvelous Light has blown me away.

Phil Wickham's Cannons and True Love are two of the greatest lyrical songs I've ever heard.

Kari Jobe's voice is absolutely sick...

Mind Dump

2009-06-25T09:44:00.003-05:00

VBS was really good last night with somewhere around 65 kids participating. I had it easy since I got to run the sound and the video and hang out with some of my extremely cool students (and no they do not read this blog and I'm not sucking up... they are just really cool people to hang around).
I'm usually pro-everything that reaches someone with the Gospel, but VBS music and that Jeff Slaughter guy (the one who dances and does the instructional stuff) just really gets on my nerves. I'm sure he is a great guy and all, but man...do you really have to dance like that??
I do not compliment my wife enough. She is an organizational genius. She does, however, stress out way too much, but I got a feeling God is going to use this underrated gift in some huge ways.
JP was not on his best behavior last night. I think he is just here at the church sooo much that he is comfortable doing whatever. When he comes with me to work, he makes his way around from his class to Mrs. Rama's office, to the sanctuary, to wherever and completely takes care of himself until his bladder is about to explode. It seems as though he almost has a sense of entitlement when he is here and people telling him not to go certain places really urks him. I guess this is my fault.
So last night JP and I had a good talk about listening and being the example. We'll see how that goes tonight. I gave him a choice: Obedience or a sore tail...
Did I mention that we have the absolute best students in the world??
I understand the culture here in Arkansas is different than South Alabama. But, Does that give people the right to be just flat out rude??
One day this blog and it's freedom that allows me to express my thoughts is going to get me in trouble:)
Why is it that all of Marci's comments are filled with "how precious" "soooo Sweet" "CCCUUUTTTTEEE!!"?? People, I understand the need to not be rude, but there is no reason to go overboard with the consistent "AWWW" remarks.
Well, I feel better. I hope you do to:)

A Home Office

2009-06-24T10:30:00.003-05:00

I'm a weird person. Many of you are now laughing thinking to yourself, "Well, that's the understatement of the century." I have many weird habits and abilities. Habits?? I suck my teeth for a good hour after I eat. I never have to cut my toenails because I'm constantly ripping them off by hand. I know those are kind of odd, but I felt that you were wondering what my weird habits were and I did not want to leave you hanging. Abilities?? Well, I can go to sleep anywhere... anytime. No matter what's going on in my life, I can sleep. It's a gift that I'm very thankful for.

I said all of that to say this:

Last night I was pretty wound up. I went to play basketball (which was horrible by the way...) and when I got home, there was no way I wanted to go to sleep. I could have, but I just didn't want to. I started thinking how awesome it would be to have a home office. JP was in bed asleep, Megan was watching HGTV or Food Network I'm sure, and here I am. I could have watched TV (Megan did let me watch some Ultimate Fighting before she took over though. Man I love her even if she does get sick when watching it). I became envious of those who have this luxury (Ryan Johnson) just thinking about how awesome it would be to have my own place to go read and listen to Piper, Chandler, Driscoll, Ravenhill and so many others. A place to write without any of JP's loud cries, "I got to poo Dad!!" By the way, is it only my son who waits to the very last second before he lets anyone know he's got a turtle head sticking out?? I'm praying for one. We actually have room for one now, but I feel bad spending money when there are so many other needs right now. I mean, we have a baby on the way!! I can't put money into a desk, book shelves, computer, Internet (Nolan and Kasey live just out of our wireless reach), and an IPOD dock:)

Would I get anymore accomplished with a home office? I would like to think so, but I'm guessing you guys have some opinions...Fire away

Youtubia

2009-06-23T10:24:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure my blogging has ever been more sporadic than it is now. It's so weird because I'm actually less busier now since I have become a college graduate, but the creative juices just haven't been flowing the same way they were several months back. In my head I know I need to be reading more and writing more, but I'm afraid my ADD is in a very harsh stage. I'm actually contemplating some medication. I mean, I enjoy blogging and I'm not lacking things I want to say, but it is harder for me to sit down and focus. So this morning I've been praying, and I feel the Lord has revealed to me through the Holy Spirit that I'm suffering from a serious disease by the name of Youtubia. If you aren't sure what it is, WebMD defines it as:

Youtubia- the act or state one inhabits of getting on youtube for one reason, and then, several hours later, finding oneself clicking on any random video that seems remotely interesting.

Actually, WebMD says nothing of Youtubia, but I feel that it is common and serious enough to be listed. So there it is...beware of youtubia. I cannot, however, leave without some bullet points:)

VBS Starts tomorrow night. Pray some kids are effected for eternity.
We lost both church softball games last night...one by like 20 runs. We are not very good.
I never did a M-Fuge post, but to catch you up...it was amazing and I love our students.
I'm pretty excited about Phillip's and Jaci's wedding coming up in August. I usually don't like weddings, but I love these guys.
Father's day was really good. There is nothing like getting out of the bed to a half colored picture from your son screaming happy birthday and happy mother's day.
Also after church, he handed me a bag of candy they put together in Sunday School and told me, "Daddy, we can share this."
I love my dad. I never knew how amazing he was and is until I became a dad. We fished, played ball, and he followed me wherever my schedule took me. All the while working swing shifts and taking care of our family. He is one strong amazing man.

Quote it...

2009-06-05T09:55:00.001-05:00

"Preaching is not a profession, it's a passion. If a man can't preach with passion, he shouldn't be preaching at all!!"

- Leonard Ravenhill

Mind Dump

2009-05-28T10:21:00.002-05:00

Last night was a really good night. I got to confess somethings to our students and really be transparent.
We recasted the vision of our student ministry: To see Christ increase in every way and for us to decrease in every way. John 3:29-30 is an amazing passage that reveals the joy in John the Baptist as he sees people moving from him and to Jesus. He found joy in seeing Christ gain all the glory...Wow, we need more people like that.
I got to speak to a couple of students last night and really dig into their lives. I'm humbled...and ridiculously scared at the fact that God is allowing me and calling me to be personally involved in these students lives.
Something else was revealed to me last night in my conversation with a student after the service. You can grow in knowledge and never be transformed and saved by the Spirit. Just because you know and even do the right thing doesn't mean God has saved you. Salvation takes brokenness and surrender all the while you are supernaturally justified before God the Father because of Jesus' work on the cross.
I woke up this morning to the best text message ever. A student asking me what kind of bible he needs to get and where to get it. That makes me happy. To see a student, at an early time in the day, be thinking about growing spiritually is a joyous occasion.
This also makes me sad to know that there are parents out there that are not being the spiritual leaders in their homes. Of course we all know this, but for a kid not to have a bible...wow, sometimes I fall into the trap of thinking that since I'm in Northwest Arkansas everyone at least has a bible.
If I ever own a Christian bookstore, I declare today that it will be filled with Godly resources that will introduce people to Jesus and help people grow in their faith. I walked into a store that may have had 20 bibles and they were all the same gift/award bibles. Seriously, I'm not opposed to all the things (some people call it Jesus Junk) in these stores, but at least have a solid selection of resources that will lead people to Jesus and edify the church.

NBA Playoffs

2009-05-27T09:48:00.003-05:00

I'll confess. I love the NBA. I understand all the reasons people hate the NBA, but don't try to convince me to hate it to. I appreciate these extreme athletes that are capable of doing unimaginable feats. So one of my favorite times of the year is playoff time coming in second to March Madness (nothing beats college basketball). I want you to know that I do not miss a game. The thought of me missing Dwight Howard's pregame dance, Lebron dunking over 5 defenders, Chris "Byrdman" Anderson coming out of nowhere to block a shot into the stands, or Kobe missing the game winning shot only to go whine about how bad his teammates are absolutely kills me. I am also extremely thankful God blessed me with a wife who loves sports. She is amazing. When she was having contractions laying in the hospital bed hours before birthing JP...she let me watch ESPN classic with all the throw back historic college games. She didn't mind me getting up at 3 in the morning to watch the USA Olympic basketball team crush all who got in their way. And the NBA playoffs, well my lovely wife is right there beside me...taking in every shot.

BUT..........................................

My wife's recent obsession with Lebron James is kind of scary. When he hits the game winning shot, she goes ecstatic. I thought this was ok at first. I mean who doesn't love a buzzer beater. But last night when Lebron and the Cavs lost...she got angry. Really angry. She proceeded to tell me when I began laughing that "Lebron James is the NBA!!" Maybe she is just a big fan...You think?? Well, I guess I'll be ok until I catch her doing Lebron's pregame ritual of throwing powder in the air in the bathroom yelling, "Be A Witness!!"

Disclaimer: Please know that this was all a big joke. My wife is amazing and she loves watching basketball with me. She is mildly obsessed with Lebron, but it is nothing like what I made it seem here...RIGHT!!

Alabama Breakdown

2009-05-25T11:19:00.003-05:00

Megan and I took a spontaneous trip down to see the family this past week. Here are some things that went down:

We left after church Sunday morning and proceeded to drive 12 straight hours home. I wouldn't tell just anyone this, but with the blog readers you have to be honest: Megan drove the first 9 hours...pregnant. What can I say? She is hardcore.
Monday was spent trying to keep JP from running through the walls. I'm not sure why the Lord gave me a child with endless energy. Grandparents' houses are filled with toys...
Tuesday I went to play golf with my hero, Michael Whitt. I only say that because I know he doesn't read this. My game was on for the first 6 holes but completely collapsed after that. He dominated.
We got to spend some good time talking, and he helped me clear my head on a lot of things. Jesus has used Mike to do that many, many times.
Wednesday was a good day. I spent some quality time with my family and got to visit FBC Abbeville that night. Ryan is one of the best youth pastors I've ever met, and it is always a blessing to sit down and talk with him.
Also, Timbo preached. Timbo was one of my students who accepted his call in the ministry. He did an awesome job. I even teared up a little when he started his message. I still remember watching Fresh Prince of Bel Air on Sunday mornings with him at the house before church started. He is Ryan's intern for the summer and he'll be great.
That night we headed to Megan's parents. Conversation is always interesting at that house.
Thursday was pretty quiet, but JP did get to do some fishing...in their swimming pool. That was the funniest thing I've ever seen, "Daddy, can we go fishing...in the pool??!!"
Friday me and Megan's dad drove to Dothan, AL to get our cell phones worked on. I used to be hardcore for Verizon, but they've let me down here lately.
JP got a new Batman car and 4-wheeler from Toys R' Us...Grandparents, and for some reason especially granddads, love buying toys for the grandson.
Friday night was peaceful. The women were at graduation and me, Mr. Dennis, and JP hung out at the house. JP watched a movie and things were quiet...until graduation was over. You got to love it when people get your son all wild and then leave just so the parents can try and settle him down again.
Saturday we left about 6:30 in the morning and drove 12 hours back, but I was the one who hardcore this time...I drove, not all the way, but the majority!! (Insert manly grunt here)
Glad to be back in Berryville. We miss the folks, but God has us here for a reason.

Where Are You??

2009-05-21T11:10:00.002-05:00

For you guys that don't I'm in Alabama. We got here early Monday morning and we will leave EARLY Saturday to get back to Berryville. I got tons of things to do before M-fuge in a couple of weeks. The trip has been good, and I got a lot to update you guys on (I like to pretend you actually care). So Monday I'll return with a massive mind dump for your enjoyment.

Confessions: A Windsor Knot

2009-05-17T08:27:00.002-05:00

If you have known me for any length of time, then you know how much I hate wearing ties. Well, this morning I have to preach and my lovely wife says it is a must for me to wear a suit. I came to the office early to do some Jesus stuff completely dressed...except for my tie. Now one of my main reasons I hate wearing a tie is because I simply tie straight up ghetto knots. I cannot for some reason make a knot look good. My 8th grade AG teacher, Mr. Brand, tried to teach the class, but it never worked for me. So I'm here in my office staring at the devil (or a tie) wondering, what I'm going to do...Praise the Lord for google!! I googled "windsor knot", watched the instructional videos, and really focused in on tieing a true ministry knot. Now I know this post will send a lot of "ha ha Ricky your a loser" comments my way, and I'm cool with that. I've confessed my heart and ended up with the best knot I have ever tied.

Saturday's 7

2009-05-16T11:25:00.002-05:00

Mentally getting prepared to preach in the morning. I'm not sure how Lead Pastors do this 3 times a week. I'm pumped and full of energy right now, but tomorrow after the service I will be absolutely drained.
Preaching on 1 Corinthians 3:10-13... Building on the Right Foundation, with the right materials, and with the right motive.
I'm looking forward to the 12 hour drive home Sunday afternoon. I haven't spent much time with my family this week and it will be sweet just driving and hanging out.
I went and played a mighty 4 holes of golf yesterday before I had and emergency phone call. I chipped in on hole #1 from about 30 yards out, by far the greatest shot of my life and no one was around to see it.
Speaking of my emergency phone call...I love student ministry. For someone to call me in a time of crisis in their life is amazingly humbling. I would give up golf or anything else any day to hug someone and pray with them through a trying time in their life.
Feeding the seniors and their families Bubba's BBQ after church tomorrow. I got a feeling Megan will be driving the first leg of the trip. Preaching and BBQ, I'll be asleep before we get to Green Forest.
By the way, 2 years in the waiting I finally bought a truck. It's nothing special at all, but it makes my day when JP yells, "Let's ride in the big boy truck!!" He loves that thing. He spent and hour and a half just walking around in the bed of it Thursday afternoon. I love it when he is happy.

JP and the Baby Doctor

2009-05-15T14:08:00.003-05:00

We went to find out what the baby was today, and JP made it clear that he wanted a Georgia-Kate just like his best buddy Benjamin. Well, he is a little disappointed because IT'S A BOY!!

Mind Dump

2009-05-13T09:00:00.002-05:00

I'm sitting here in the office thinking through all the things I need to get done. I have ton of stuff going on, and I can't really think straight with so much stuff clogging my brain. So here, for all the world to see, I choose to lay it all out in the open:

I'm preaching tonight on 1 John 2:1-17. Basically we are going over very specific characteristics a believer MUST have in their life. These are suggestions but Biblical commands. A believer must have a working knowledge of Christ and the atonement, A believer must be obedient, and a believer must love. I'm thankful God cares so much about our conversion that He continually speaks through his word about this very issue.
Sunday morning is our Senior Graduation Service. We will lose three students to college. I'm excited about this service for several reasons. 1st, we are eating Bubba's BBQ afterwards. 2nd, I think this is really nice for the parents. 3rd, I'm preaching, and I always love to do that.
I'll be preaching on 1 Corinthians 3:10-13. We'll talk about building a building. No, not some physical structure but the Body of Christ. Paul calls us God's building, and we need to make sure we are building the way God has called us to build: On the right foundation (Jesus) and only with materials that will survive the test of fire (1 order doctrines, holy living, etc.).
Hit up Itunes and get Kristian Stanfill's new album Attention...It is crazy good. As much respect I have for the father's of modern worship music (Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Charlie Hall, David Crowder...I mean seriously, in 20 years the Baptist hymnal will consist only of these guys, their songs and their versions of old school hymns) Stanfill's album is every bit as good and maybe even a little better. I Need You and Lord of All are ridiculous.
Heading to Alabama next week. What are my plans you ask? Fishing and golf...that's about it.

Quote of the Day

2009-05-11T19:07:00.002-05:00

I'm sitting here in my office waiting for a girl's community group to leave my house. Never did I think, in this short time I was going to spend in my office, I would listen to something so true and convicting:

"This Country is not Gospel-hardened...This Country is Gospel ignorant. Because most pastors are not preaching the Gospel. This position is not for the cowardice or the weak but for wild men and fools." --Paul Washer

Lord, may I preach without fear for the glory of Your name.

I Have Seen The Light

2009-05-11T08:56:00.002-05:00

Here is a little recap of Friday night and Saturday Morning:

We started the night off with some flag football. When I had a 9th grade guy smash a 12th grade girl, I thought this could seriously be a bad idea. I'm just glad the girl was Aubree Fry, Superwoman. Dude, this girl could bench press me, and this monster hit just fired her up.
Right after the game, we moved into a little "Gotcha" competition or "Knock-Out" if you are weird and you really don't know the name of the game. I was struggling on the still sore ankle, and I was somewhat embarrassed when then 7th grade girls (who are very skilled at basketball) started dominating me.
When we got back to the church we began worship. Troy did a fantastic job. This guy is seriously skilled and I recommend him to anyone needing a worship leader. We saw some students truly broken over their sin, and one guy I got to talk to really started examining himself and his salvation. It was a good time.
This is when it all started going downhill. When you have a group of people who want to sleep and another group who has more energy than Speedy Gonzalez on 5-hour energy...it doesn't mix well.
We survived, and I am just now crawling out of the fetal position and pulling my thumb out of my mouth.
What light have I seen you ask?? Well, this day I promise: I WILL NEVER DO ANOTHER LOCK-IN!!

Lock-In

2009-05-06T14:55:00.002-05:00

So I have had a lot of questions about what all is going to happen at the lock-in...
Here is my attempt in answering those questions:

7:00p.m.- Kickoff, Rules, Food, and I'm sure I'll crush someone in ping-pong or box hockey during this time.
8:00-10:00- We have flag football over in the Community Center. There has been a ton of trash talking going on concerning this little competition. I don't think they understand what they're getting themselves into.
10:00- Worship featuring Troy...This guy is awesome and everyone is invited to attend this time with us...if you are still up.
11:30- Heading over to Eureka to the Twice Born Old School Game Room. My good friend Jayme gave me a key and is letting use it for free. They have all the classics.
1:00- Some chill time...I'm going to be about to lose it at this point.
2:00- The infamous Ooga Booga. If you have no clue what I'm talking about there is a reason.
3:00- I think it will be movie time by now.
4:30- Lord, please let this be over soon time...
4:45- ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!?? It's only been 15 minutes!!
5:45- I'm laying over in the corner in the fetal position with my thumb in my mouth crying out to God for relief...Yeah, Lock-ins are that tough.
6:00- Breakfast by Heath and Lisa...I love those guys:)
7:00- GET OUT SO I CAN GO HOME!! Of course with this will be said with a hug.

2009-05-04T12:34:00.002-05:00

I know there may be some of you who do not read the church newsletter (shame on you), so I decided to post my part here. I love talking about grace. Also, I know two posts in one day is extremely rare so don't forget to read "Sunday Action" below...Peace

Right now we are in a series called the “Letter’s of John” on Wednesday nights. We are going through 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John verse by verse trying to see the very heart of the author as we read these divinely inspired letters together. Last week we looked at the first 4 verses, and they absolutely blew me away as we saw that the Apostle John was someone who walked, talked, ate, and prayed with the God-Man, Jesus Christ. One thought that impacted me significantly was that John was allowed to behold eternal life with his own eyes as he saw and interacted with the resurrected Christ even after John abandoned Jesus at his arrest and lost all hope after the crucifixion. Yet, God demonstrated that beautiful grace in establishing him as a vital leader in the early church and spoke through him as he wrote the Gospel of John, these three letters and the beautiful book of Revelation.

The more I read and study the New Testament, the more God reveals his amazing grace. He saved apathetic fishermen, prostitutes, Roman soldiers, jailers, thieves, and even the Christian killer, Paul. There are endless stories of Jesus saving people who many think could never be saved and restoring those who seemingly could not be restored. GRACE!! People need to know about this amazing grace that is available. Go tell someone about the grace that transformed your life…even to those whom you may have no hope for. Remember the promise in Hebrews 7:25:

“Consequently, He (Jesus) is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.”
Amen…and Amen

Sunday Action

2009-05-04T09:54:00.003-05:00

I think yesterday could have been the longest Sunday of my life. I felt like I was here all day, but I did enjoy seeing people fellowship...Community is beautiful. Here's the action that went down:

The day started off with me getting in the shower and the bar of soap breaking...I hate when that happens.
For some reason JP had an unreal amount of energy. I'm always making sure that in my heart I'm being thankful that I have a son who can run, jump, and talk. Even though he runs everywhere, jumps loudly, and talk non-stop.
Sunday School was good with an amazing full room of adults. You know this time of the week is so awesome to me. They refresh me and to see them grow spiritually blesses my heart.
Then church happened (Just so you know for some reason I can't quit laughing while I'm typing this). The good news is that no cell phones rang during the service...hey, that may sound like a small thing, but that is a major step for SHBC. We had a Gospel Quartet sing which is always exciting. It's true they were not of my musical taste, but they were entertaining...especially the guy with the Yosemite Sam mustache.
We honored the Senior adults and ate afterwards. Megan kind of headed things up and I was really impressed how she recruited workers. That is the key in ministry...FIND PEOPLE TO HELP!! So I may be bias but I think it went incredibly smooth, and the best part was not one of our student servers spilled a drink on a senior adult...Big plus on the day.
That afternoon was semi relaxing until JP woke up. I'm not sure why he decided to get up with a horrible attitude but I should have figured it since we was going to be on stage singing for the AWANA ceremony.
Speaking of...I want to give a huge shout out to Heath and Rama who saved my child from the beating of a lifetime (please do not call child services) when they went on stage and put their arms around my boy before he did or said anything not smart. Seriously, I wouldn't have beat him, but I was expecting any minute for him to take off running and do a Superfly Jimmy Snuka body splash on all the kids in front of him. Yeah, that's an old school WWF reference by the way:)

Kicking it Old School

2009-04-30T09:39:00.002-05:00

Back in the day I used to do a regular Thursday post called "DM Demolition" where I gave you guys every detail on our Wed. night Desiring More services. Well, grab your knee high socks, Afro picks, and your sweet Saturday Night Fever shirts because we are kicking it Old School...

The only reason I feel comfortable saying this is because I know Russell would not take time to read my blog, but our wed. nights have been going SSOO much better since he started leading worship. The guy is talented and like I said I would never tell him that, but he picked up a guitar just a few months ago and already he is quality enough for our kids to say they miss him when he is gone. Send this guy to a few worship conferences and he would join the Passion tour...OK, maybe thats a stretch.
We started "John's Letters" last night. Dude, I'm not sure how many times I've read these three letters but never has it been so alive to me (Hebrews 4:12). We only read the first 4 verses last night and I could not get out all God taught me. John is one amazing example of what grace really is.
We have some students seriously stepping up and owning their faith...this makes me really excited.
We have always had girls who lead and lead well. I think some guys (and I few I would never had expected to tell you the truth) are really stepping up and being that example at school, church, and home.
I'm not sure if I have ever publicly thanked all the people who have really poured into my and taught me how to do ministry. The list is way too long, but I think I need to do this soon.
A few big things coming up...

Lock-In with Troy Campbell May 8th. Starting the night off with Community group flag football game.
I'm preaching the Senior Graduation Sunday May 17th.
Community Groups start Monday
M-Fuge...I need the rest of the deposits

Super JP

2009-04-28T10:31:00.002-05:00

This is JP fighting all the bad guys on Open Season...

He doesn't like it when all the hunters attack Boog.

The Forgotten Golden Age

2009-04-27T14:39:00.002-05:00

I know...2 posts in one day, but this is just simply something I have to put down while it is freshly speaking to my heart.

I just read a book review on "The Forgotten Golden Age" where Phillip Jenkins traces Christianity from Rome to China, Egypt, Ethiopia, and several other places. The idea is that these places, which were once thriving Spiritual communities, met there end by not successfully standing against opposition. Muslim and Turkish invasions, the Black Plague, and other factors eventually ended Christianity and soon gave over to becoming predominately Muslim. This absolutely breaks my heart because we, if we are honest and look closely, can see the exact same thing happening in our world today. Your right that it may not be Muslim and Turkish invasions, but it is us failing to fight off secularism and spiritual apathy. Many of us do not see the Gospel as something worth living and dying for (we may say it with our mouths but do our actions support our words??) therefore, we will soon give way to a secular world that refuses to believe in God and His holiness.

What does this mean for us?? Well, let's look at what has happened to the previously mentioned countries. They have spent centuries in spiritual darkness with countless generations dying lost because of their ancestors giving way to religious tolerance.

Here are my final thoughts: If we soon do not stand upon the immovable foundation that is Christ and His word, and prove to our children that there is nothing more important than the Gospel, we will soon lose the next untold number of generations to secularism and spiritual apathy. I heard in high school once that History repeats itself...Can we please take Jesus' words and begin thirsting and hungering for righteousness...Our children's response to Jesus depends on it.

Monday Mind Dump

2009-04-27T08:56:00.002-05:00

I was wondering something, and I'm just going to put this out there: Is there any other church in the world that has the cell phone problem Southern Heights has??!! Honestly, we average at least one cell phone ring a service and last night there were 5!! 4 of them sounded like the same phone. I am proud to say, however, that not one of them was a students:)
I really think God revealed the Scripture He wants me to preach on May 17th. I'm extremely excited, and I know if we have ears to hear that God is going to speak. He is good.
My wife is amazing. She serves like crazy and loves endlessly.
It is good to have close friends. Seriously, we have deep relationships with some really good people here. People who love us, care for us, who always listen, and stand up for us... That is something I greatly appreciate.
M-Fuge happens in little over a month. Honduras happens a month after I get home from M-Fuge. Phillip is getting married the week after I get home from Honduras. Where did my summer go??
JP sure is getting funny in his old age...He talks about the craziest stuff and his imagination is wild. Being a Dad is fun...as of right now:)
I'm writing my last paper for school today. Yeah, it took a long time, but graduation is upon me!!

Saturday's 7

2009-04-25T08:54:00.003-05:00

Going to help a couple move to a new house today. I think the ankle may slow me down a bit.
I am so pumped about the weather change. Yesterday Megan and I rode out to Worley's World (Heath and Lisa's) and the weather was absolutely amazing. You forget about the harsh winters quick up here.
We got a visit from Dan Moran Thursday night to ease some minds of those going to Honduras with us. He did a fantastic job, but he did remind me of how much more stuff I have to do in preparation.
My goal is to take a team of people out of the country once a year...I think Honduras may be the place where we can go every year and truly invest.
I think some people are going to be shocked when they realize this not a sight seeing adventure. We are really going to work and be involved with the people.
Read a story this morning where a police officer in Abbeville got shot and killed by some moron. It breaks my heart, and it definitely reveals the depravity of people.
I'm still looking for a new truck...you got one to sell??

And The Cycle Continues

2009-04-22T08:28:00.002-05:00

Yesterday could not have been any worse of a day. I mean, honestly, it was just one of those days that will stick out in my memory for a long time. So yesterday my amazing wife got off work earlier than normal so I could get out of the house and just be free for a little while. So I go and make a few visits to some people and go back to the community center and play some ball. Well, I guess I was just too intense and focused as I was trying to escape from reality and I ended up jumping (I know what you are thinking..."Ricky you were playing basketball, you have to jump." Well, not me anymore...I play low to the ground) which is something I do not do for fear of ankle rolling, and again I rolled my ankle. I hit the ground and feel it pop back into place. As I got up and tried to walk it off I couldn't help but start laughing. I get really bad out of shape. I get on a health kick and start losing some weight. I run, excercise, and lift weights pretty regularly. I roll my ankle or crash a mountain bike and get bad out of shape again. So I'm up at 12 last night and I have this thought:

God always seems to bring me back to my knees. He will not allow me to find comfort and escape from troubles in worldly things. So last night in the bedroom with my wonderful wife asleep, I begin to worship and pray and repent over and over again. He alone is worthy and He alone is good. Yes, He did bless me with a talent and love for basketball, but so many times I make that my "relief" when in all reality God is the only "relief". Romans 8:22 tells us that the whole earth groans for the relief from this bondage sin has caused it. Like the earth we should be waiting in eager expectation of God's relief rather than trusting in an activity to escape. Again there is nothing wrong with stress relief...my problem was that I was trusting in it. Don't make my mistake and have to learn a lesson with a bad ankle and a couple of weeks of hobbling around.

1 Peter 1:3- 5: 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

It's All Out There

2009-04-21T09:31:00.002-05:00

Not too long after Megan and I made the move to Arkansas, I started blogging. I have enjoyed every minute of it, but the advice of one of the smartest people I've ever known, Rodney Dalton, sticks in my head..."Once you put it all out there, there's no getting it back." Wow, what a great warning on being careful about what you say. So ever since I started this whole blogging deal, for the most part, I've been very careful about the words I type. With that thought strong on my heart, I still have some things I need to say:

1. I will protect my family...no matter the consequences.
2. I have heard many respected biblical scholars say that there is no such thing as carnal Christianity. Those people are just lost...
3. The reason lost people are seeking for something of eternal value within the church is simply because of all the junk that goes on within a church. I they have enough stress and drama at home, and they do not want to come to a place with more of it.
4. You and I are absolutely nothing without God's grace.
5. True community is only available through love (1 John 4). We may display tolerance but never true fellowship with out love.

Picture Time

2009-04-20T13:47:00.003-05:00

It's been way too long since I have posted some pics of JP. So here you go...Enjoy the many personalities of "Brother JP".

JP hanging with his best buddy Benjamin at his birthday party. Here we see JP in his "Lighting McQueen is the only thing that matters" phase...

Here we see JP in his "Come here baby" phase...

Here we see JP in his "Dude, life is hilarious" phase...

Here we see JP in his "I'm just like my Dad" phase...

Finally, we see JP in his "I'm a complete momma's boy" phase...

Saturday's 7

2009-04-18T09:35:00.002-05:00

AAHHH!! It's nice to have a chance to release the things that clog up my mind:)
I played ball this morning for the first time in a long time...almost as long as my "no blog" run. I think I'm too quiet when I play basketball. I never say anything, and I'm not sure if that is the way Christ wants me to play. I know I don't need to talk just for the sake of running my mouth, but I do need to be more encouraging. 1 Cor. 10:31
I'm more excited about Student Ministry now than I think I have ever been. Community Groups are starting soon, M-Fuge is just around the corner, I'm dreaming up in my head a ministry that reaches out to college and young adults, and we are seeing fruit in the ministry. I love this...
I got to baptize three on Easter Sunday morning. One of the top 8 moments in all my life I would probably say. I'm not sure how John the Baptist did so many at one time...if the TBN movies are an accurate picture.
The weather is finally changing and I'm being reminded about how awesome it is to live in NW Arkansas. Seriously, the winters are miserable, but it all is quickly forgotten when Spring rolls around.
We had a baby appointment yesterday and the doctor said the heart sounded great. October 9th EVERYTHING will change. Pray that I get over my semi-selfish ways by then and truly adopt the mind of Christ.
Two blog posts in a row...I think I'm getting back into the groove of things:)

Early Morning Thoughts

2009-04-17T05:19:00.004-05:00

I know. This has probably been my longest drought since I first started blogging a year ago. Most likely everyone has gave up and will never know I even started posting again. That's ok... But if you do happen to stumble on this by God's sovereignty:), I'm back in the blog world. My mind is going to explode if I don't get some of this out. When my alarm went off at 4:30 this morning, I had slept well, but all day yesterday and last night my heart has been heavy. Maybe heavy is not the right word because I'm so stinking excited about some things coming up for our student ministry. To be honest I haven't been this pumped about where God is taking us ever...I see depth, hunger, and realness in a lot of our kids hearts and it blesses me greatly. We have some serious hard-core staff that is stepping up and giving away tons of time in their lives to invest in our kids, and that makes me happy.

So here is me trying to give you a quick deal on why I'm so excited about the ministry. We are developing community groups, which is something we should have done day 1. These community groups are basically to promote unity within our ministry and to get our students focused on the Gospel in the deepest way possible. Basically, our tag-line is "A Gospel Centered Community". Here are the shirts I just approved for this:

Yeah, I'm pretty proud of them. Anyway, I'm learning that in the ministry everything must go through the filter of the Gospel. Everything we do must have a "Gospel Purpose". This is no different. Again, if God's sovereignty leads you back to this blog and you want to be a part of this please let me know. We can always use teachers and home-sites...You can be a part of the Gospel Centered Community.

Where's Your Pants??

2009-03-17T10:00:00.002-05:00

I know it has been awhile, and I'm truly sorry. My free time to do things I enjoy, like writing, is becoming almost obsolete. I either need to thin out my schedule or take some time-management classes...or just quit watching "The Office" which has been sucking my life away for about a month now. Thanks to Russell for handing me season one and saying, "Just watch man...I promise you'll love it and be coming back for more." He's the dealer, "The Office" is the drug, and I'm the hopeless addict unable to tear myself away from the TV.

Anyway, I got a quick JP story for you. Apparently he has been listening to people at church WAY too much. My child says "Go Hogs" instead of "Roll Tide" because of the demonic influence the Rogers family has had on his life...ok, maybe not demonic but definitely some form of evil. He was playing with his trains the other day and when they crash he yells, "OH MY GOODNESS!!" He definitely did not get any of these from home since we hate the hogs and "oh my goodness" is a little too clean of language for our home:)

This morning as I was dressing JP he asked sincerely, "Dad, where's your pants?" I was confused because I had shorts on and replied, "Dude, I have pants on...what are you talking about??" He said while tugging on my shorts, "No dad, you don't wear those to church." This happens to be the same things a few ladies told me last night at Revival. "Where are your pants?" they asked. "You don't wear shorts to church." They said. Why doesn't JP listen to me like he listens to everyone else? So as good as Southern Heights has been to us, you have turned my child against me. Thanks... I have to listen to my son say weird things, call the hogs, and criticize my wardrobe.

Friday's 5

2009-03-06T10:47:00.003-06:00

Here are 5 things you may or may not have known about me...

I love playing golf and basketball, but I am horrible at both.
I love preaching, but nothing stresses me out more than preparing.
I bought a pair of Oakley's a while back, but I wear my $5 pair from Wal-Mart more often.
I am a big-time reader, but I hardly ever finish a book.
I am so tired of going to school, but I am constantly thinking about when I'll go back for my Masters.

Confession/Rant: The Bachelor

2009-03-04T09:34:00.003-06:00

This is tough. I usually feel free after a hard-core confession. My bad parenting, love for Colbie Callait, and other confessions have been made public, but none of them seems to have the possibility of completing destroying my reputation like this one. For the last 4 weeks, I have been captivated by ABC's, The Bachelor. I know it is horrible, but before you burst into unending laughter, it was not the love story that captivated me but the unrealistic stupidity that drives the show. Here we have a guy and several girls trying to find life long love within a short period of time. They are placed in an unreal situation in unreal circumstances. They have an unending bank account for dates, for some reason all the girls love the guy (there is never anyone who says, "he's just not my type), and they only get to spend just a few hours with each other. The guy constantly makes out with whomever he is with and professes his deep love for more than 1 girl. This gets me so frustrated. But here's the deal, and this made me really angry. The guy eventually breaks up with the girl he picks in the end for the reason using his exact words, "After the show, it seemed all the chemistry was gone." DUH!!!!!!! What an idiot!!! Of course all the chemistry is gone. The excitement of spending someone else's money to go on dates, having someone else do your parenting duties (the bachelor had a son), hooking up with several different girls each day, and having someone constantly tell you they love you because they want to win...sure all of the "chemistry" or "lust"or whatever is going to be gone when you hit the real world. What a completely horrible idea of what love is. I probably need to end this post because I'm getting angry all over just typing about it. But if you watched this junk and noticed the same thing I did, let's talk...I would love to actually voice my thoughts instead of just typing them.

Communicating Compassion

2009-03-02T10:28:00.001-06:00

My wife tells me I talk a lot. I’m not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing, but she insists that I talk…a lot. You see every time we take a trip together I somehow find myself in a conversation with a stranger. I’m not sure how it happens, but it seems to be an almost guarantee that I’ll strike up a chat with someone. For example, we took a trip to Vinita, OK for Megan’s birthday to go eat at a diner that was featured on the Food Network. Yes, my wife is obsessed with the Food Network, and you can feel free to call her and explain the evil nature of this channel if you would like. After lunch we ran into a Wal-Mart where I then proceeded to get into a friendly argument with the check-out lady over the proper pronunciation of Miami, OK. Whether it is Wal-Mart employees, waitresses, or strangers in an airport…I like talking to new people.

It seems as if the Lord loved talking to people too. Throughout the Old and the New Testaments, He was constantly communicating a message to His people, and compassion seems to be one of the main themes God stresses throughout Scripture. Listen to how God speaks through His prophet in Isaiah 55:1,

"Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

What a message!! If you are thirsty come! God doesn’t care what you have to give back to Him…Just come! If you are broke, tired, dirty, sinful, or whatever, it doesn’t matter. God just wants you to come. As we are preparing our hearts for our upcoming revival, we must have a thirst for God or we will not experience Him in our hearts. The prerequisite to revival is you seeing you have a need and a desire to see God fulfill that need. Will you take some time this week to search your heart, see your need, and then plead with God to do a mighty work in you? He has communicated a great promise through Isaiah, “If you want it…come and get it.”

Saturday's 7

2009-02-28T13:44:00.002-06:00

Me and Megan drove to Vinita, OK yesterday to go eat at this Diner that was on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" on the Food Network. Really, Really good. I had the BBQ plate and Megan had Chicken and dressing. We finished off our romantic lunch by sharing some lemon pie.
Mrs. Rama, one of the most wonderful ladies in the world, picked up JP from daycare and kept him at the house till we got back. When we walk into the house JP is kicked back in his booster seat, watching Veggie Tales, eating McDonald's french fries, and playing with a new spider-man toy. When Mrs. Rama went to leave he said, "Mrs. Shrama...you don't have to go do you??" Needless to say he doesn't get that kind of treatment often.
Went over to Allen and Marci's today for Georgia-Kate's B-Day party. Sadly to say, all the brown and pink decorations were overshadowed by Marci hitting GK in the forehead while she was helping her open presents. Yeah Marci...I saw it:)
I actually got up to play basketball this morning. I was impressed since it was snowing and it was my first Saturday in 7 weeks to sleep late.
Two more classes and I have graduated college. Just shy of a decade too:)
I'm looking forward to flying to North Carolina in a few weeks to help my mentor in youth ministry, Bradshaw, with a D-Now. He is a youth ministry veteran...
We have a revival coming up the 15, 16, and 17 of March. We would love for you to come hang out. Sunday Night is youth night and we are giving away some serious prizes: Ipod, skull candy, concert tickets, Gym memberships, and some other sweet stuff. Plus, I'm giving away something very special to me...You'll want a chance to get this so be here at 6:00p.m.

Confessions of the Poo!!

2009-02-24T09:50:00.003-06:00

Confession time: Sometimes my priorities get a little out of order...

OK, I know this has already started out a little uncomfortable, but this is really a story that needs to be shared despite its revealing nature of just how poor a dad I am. It all started last Friday night. We went bowling with some friends here in town, but I had to leave early to go to the regional basketball tournament my boys were playing in. Being a GREAT husband, I took JP with me so Megan could enjoy the night and not have to worry about JP running full speed down the alley wreaking havoc on some bowling pins. When we get to the game, every seat is full but two and they happen to be by one of our students moms. So we sit down to the most exciting game of the year...Berryville vs. Farmington. Fast forwarding to the 4th quarter, Berryville is down a few points with 2 minutes left. JP all of a sudden jumps to his feet and yells loudly enough for all within 3 rows to hear, "I GOT TO POO!!!" Moms and Dads look at me with a "I'm calling child services look" when I say, "Son...you just got to hold it." I mean come on, seriously, there is no way I'm leaving this game at this point. So I give him some cheerios to keep him quiet. I know what you are thinking. I stressed so long about him being potty-trained and when it finally happens you tell the kid to poo on himself. Don't judge me...this was a big game. With 45 seconds left and during a time-out when it seems as if the whole gym is quiet, JP again lets me and everyone else know, "Daddy, the poo is coming out of my bottom!!" The mom, whose name will be withheld for legal reasons, said, "Take that boy to the bathroom now." I replied, "You take him...the game is almost over!! I think he is just faking it because he is bored and he wants to get up." I just realized exactly how bad this story makes me sound, but I guess I got to finish now. So as Caleb hits the game winning three I look down to see JP squatting with his hands over his bottom. He tells me in the most serious voice you could ever imagine, "Daddy, I really need to poo." So I take him home and put him on the potty. 30 minutes later I go to check on him and he says, "I'm going to be in here for awhile." I guess he really did have to go:)

Again, please do not call child services. He had a pull-up on and was more than capable of going at anytime with the security of Lightning McQueen Huggies:)

Quote It

2009-02-18T09:09:00.001-06:00

" If you weep... weep deeply, but not prolonged. For we do not weep like those who have no hope. No...because when we weep, we weep on the Rock of Hope that is Christ."-- John Piper

Monday Mind Dump

2009-02-16T08:47:00.002-06:00

I just got an email from my Romans professor telling the class that we should be in the editing stage of our third draft for our research paper...I guess that means I should have at least picked out my topic by now. I'm such a loser
All-Star weekend was awesome. I know a lot of you out there don't like the NBA, but I admit, I do enjoy it. The skills challenge, three point shoot out, and dunk contest were all great with still a mediocre game.
Church was really good yesterday. We got to introduce the Honduras Mission Team and they actually got a nice "church clap". That makes me feel a lot better.
During AWANA yesterday afternoon I got to sit in my office with two of our junior high girls and dig into there brains about dating. I was really encouraged and discouraged at the same time. These girls actually had a great mindset on dating...it's pointless, and if you do "date" (yes one of the girls actually did quotations with her fingers) it is really dumb to get emotionally attached. I think they feel this way is because some physco youth pastor has drilled it into there heads that boys are dogs:) Maybe good parenting has a little to do with it too...actually it has everything to do with it.
Discouraging because of what girls are thinking and doing who don't have a physco youth pastor. These girls need their dads to tell them how beautiful and precious they are...not some hormonal boy.
Oh yeah...JP is potty-trained!! Or at least he has been for this whole past week. He has even been sleeping in some sweet big boy underwear. Yeah, I'm a proud dad even though mom did all the work. We were in Geraldi's (a local joint) yesterday eating and he said loudly, "I need to pee pee!!" So I jump up and start walking him to the bathroom when he sees one of our churches families enjoying their meal. For some reason he thought they might want to know as he grabs their table and says, "I'm going to go pee...I'll be right back."

Jihad

2009-02-12T19:13:00.002-06:00

This is something I've been praying through tonight...Take some time and let me know what you think.

I watched a movie that was all about Islamic terrorism today. Throughout the movie, they were constantly talking about "jihad", and they used this term to refer to war they were making on people outside of their faith. They were willing to die for their god and exactly what they believed. Jihad was of the upmost importance because it not only sanctified themselves but it also sanctified those they came in contact with. I was completely enthralled with this idea and their devotion to their faith. One dialogue scene quickly went like this:

FBI Agent: Do you consider your son a devout Muslim?
Mother: He is Muslim...there is no slight of scale in our faith.

Wow. If only we Christians (whose faith is real!!) thought in that same way. Now to the topic of jihad, that is making war to sanctify yourself and others...this is what I think:

We Christians should adopt this idea of jihad. Now I know I'm about to get some serious theological frowns, but hear me out because I believe this is even taught in Scripture by Christ Himself. The difference is that instead of making war on others, we should be making war on ourself...against our flesh. We should see our sanctification, or our growing in Jesus, and the sanctification of others to be so important that we make war on our bodies that hinder our growth. Jesus says in Matthew 5:30, "And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell." He says the same thing a verse earlier about our eyes. This is a clear teaching to me...battle your flesh, your very sin nature for your sanctification. We as Christians have been closer to adopting the Muslim idea of jihad...that is the bashing and tearing down of brothers and sisters in Christ...than the biblical teaching of Christ that tells us our sanctification is more important than our bodies. Just some thoughts for tonight. How important is your growth in Christ to you?? Is it important enough to start obeying the direct teachings of Christ?

Piper's Message to Obama

2009-02-11T11:41:00.002-06:00

John Piper recently addressed President Obama and his views on abortion from the pulpit. Please take 4 minutes to take this in. Piper speaks to Obama by name and declares that his desire for his daughters should not be that they carry condoms in their purses, but that they would be chaste and pursuing holiness.

And We'll Do It Again

2009-02-10T09:43:00.003-06:00

Saturday I was sitting in my chair after a long day of Upward basketball. Megan was ironing and acting really funny about giving me my Valentines day present. I agreed to receive it early (if you don't know me, getting and giving gifts early really gets on my nerves) and she brought in this nice red package with a bow. After I got done shredding the paper, I noticed it was golf balls...but after a closer look I realized they were the same golf balls I already had in the garage. I'm thinking to myself, "What a loser!! Does she not think I would notice she is giving me a gift I already owned??!!" I said, "Thanks." And she then said, "Well open it and read your card." The card was one of the shortest she had ever written me, but it was by far my favorite as it informed me "Your going to be a dad again!!"

That's right people...you heard it here first. We are tackling this whole baby thing again, and I could not be happier. God's timing is perfect.

She has known since before the ice storm. She has waited so long because she wanted to tell me on Valentine's Day...she couldn't make it. I was going to wait till after our doctor's appointment on the 19th...but she had to start telling people. So I wanted to be faithful to my blog readers and let you know before you found out on CNN or something:) Yeah, we are that important.

Lose Yourself

2009-02-09T10:14:00.002-06:00

If I asked you what Matthew 10:39 says, my guess is you would probably not have a clue. If I read Matthew 10:39 to you, you probably say, "I have heard that verse a thousand times." What does it say? Jesus is speaking and says, "He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it." I have been in my office reading and praying here for just a little while and feel the need to put this down for you to read. I have been overcome with conviction as I read this verse because I see myself as someone who is constantly searching for his own life. The best vehicle for me
The best house for me
The best job for me
The best friends for me
The best schedule for me
The best time for me
Dude I am absolutely sick with the infatuation of me. Jesus' words here are clear and CANNOT be misunderstood... "Lose your life for Me." If I, and the rest of us self-consumed Christians, would quit thinking about our best life now and start focusing on the heart of God and His will for our lives then maybe we could make an impact for the Kingdom. We have completely disregarded the instructions of Paul to the Phillipian Church in Phil. 2:3-4,

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. let each of you look out not only for his own interest, but also for the interest of others."

When is the last time we have gave something up for someone else? And I'm not talking about the last piece of pizza on the Pizza Hut buffet line. I'm talking about when is the last time we:
Gave up our plans so we could hang out with someone hurting
Gave up our food in Taco Bell so the man outside can eat
Gave up time with our family so we could go do mission work
Gave up our wants so we could free up some money to give
Gave up our toys so we could give some other kids something to play with

These thoughts are hurting me today. I'm understanding now what Christ has called us to... He has called us to Give Up our lives!!

Will you lose yourself today? Will you sacrifice and take someone out to eat? Will you lose your fear and share the Gospel? Will you lose your privacy and open up your home? Will you trust God?

Friday Five

2009-02-06T12:28:00.002-06:00

You want to know what has consumed my thoughts today...Here you go:

I listened to a biographical sermon on George Whitefield. My favorite part is when he proclaimed, "I will not be a velvet-mouthed preacher!!" Lord, help me preach that boldly.
I got an email the other day asking to give a "blurb" on my sermon topic for Branson's Young Christian Weekend. The title is "The Depth of Discipleship"...We'll talk about loving God, loving prayer, loving the church, and loving the Gospel.
I don't think I accurately made it known in blog world exactly how good Allen and Marci were to us while we had no power or heat. Hospitality is a spiritual gift and that family proved to have it. I love those guys and appreciate them more than they know.
There are a few people God has laid on my heart to share the Gospel with...Pray for me as He ordains specific times for me to share my faith.
I read in Matthew 9 the other day where it tells us that Jesus looked upon the people and was moved to compassion...why? Because they were lost. Lord break our hearts for those who are scattered and wondering around.

Feet Washing

2009-02-02T09:09:00.002-06:00

- He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. John 13:4b-5

Yesterday was a good day. A few guys got together early yesterday morning and began to clean some yards that had been ripped apart by the ice storm. We cleared brush, dragged limbs to the road, cut firewood, climbed houses and trees (or Jeff just shimmied up trees), fixed gutters, and ministered. As much as it helped some of our older saints, it did way more for us. We went to one particular house on Hannah Street whose yard was completed covered in fallen trees. As we pulled up the house across the street had a blocked driveway, so me and Russell went over to quickly cut through it before we went and helped the rest of the guys. She came out of the house and told us she would really like the help but she wanted to know how much we were charging. It overjoyed my soul to tell her, "Nothing. We want to do it because we love you." Countless widowed ladies tried to pay us for the work, but every time we got to say, "We didn't do this for money or for you to buy us lunch...we love you." We left one lady with tears in her eyes as she thanked us for the work we did, but she'll never know how much it blessed us just to help her.

I'm a pretty selfish guy, but yesterday God reminded me that serving people is a blessing. I have got to quit focusing so much on myself. Go help someone clean their yard today...you'll be blessed.

"It has been well said that humility is not thinking meanly of yourself; it is simply not thinking of yourself at all." --Wiersbe

Ice Ice Baby

2009-01-30T12:47:00.005-06:00

I hate ice. I don't think I'll even put any in my cup of Dr. Pepper anymore. That's how I feel right now. I didn't think it was possible for ice to actually uproot trees, but (as shocking as this may be) I have been wrong before. So here's an update:

1. We don't have power

2. We don't have heat
3. We are on our third day of bumming off Allen and Marci
4. Alabama is horrible and can't even beat Arkansas when they are declared a Natural Disaster Area.
5. I figured out I whine way too much.

So, for today's edition of "Ricky, quit being a big baby and suck it up!!" I decided to list a few good things that have came out of the (start doom music now) "Ice Storm of the Century!!"

Staying with Allen and Marci has been pretty awesome despite the fact that I feel like a bum. JP and Benjamin keep each other entertained, Georgia-Kate makes me feel good about myself because she smiles at me, and God is allowing to spend more time with Allen to convince him of his Sunday school teaching obligation.

I have gotten to visit some of our older saints in the church. They need some help and God is allowing us to serve during this time.
As much destruction as this has caused...it is incredibly beautiful. B-Dutt's wife described it as the "Glorious Ruin"...pretty hardcore.

JP and Benjamin are getting to sled every afternoon. This is something I never got to do.

The interruption of our normal everyday life has not stopped my wife from cleaning and straightening up every 5 seconds. She cleans...I'm pretty thankful for that.
This whole ice incident may help me convince my wife I need a four-wheel drive truck:)

Since we have family who checks this out semi-regular...here are some pics so you can take a sneak peek in our life:

Trees down everywhere!!
That's right...Ice
I have never seen ice form around tree limbs
Our Backyard
Snow...

JP loves to do this.
Benjamin heading down the hill
Best Buds
You can't tell it here...but there is a naked lady in the fountain:)
They are pretty cold...

Those Roads Were Really Bad

2009-01-20T09:36:00.003-06:00

Blogging is something I love to do. It is a release for me, and if a few people are blessed by some of the more serious posts...then Praise God!! The problem I'm having these days is time. This is something I know we all deal with. I just don't have enough time to do everything I want to do. I have to get better and time management...Anyone know of a good conference?? So in keeping with my pattern of bullet blogs, here is another for you:

I watched what was possibly the worst movie ever last night...All Roads Lead Home. We have a small group here Berryville that get together pretty often and watch movies. It is hard to find a movie that isn't just horribly violent, sex-filled, or filthy. If I won't let JP watch, I'm not watching it. This movie had none of the above or anything else. It was horrible. Anytime someone says "tom-foolery" or "he is deader than disco" in a movie you can go ahead and count it a bust. I did laugh a lot throughout the movie though just because it was so dumb...I guess it wasn't a total lost.
Many have been asking why I deleted a previous post. God called me to boast in nothing but the cross of Christ...in my filthy rags being made clean through His sacrifice. I did a bad job in writing that post. I made the Dean's List this past Fall Semester. I did it because God gave me the strength to do it.
On the topic of boasting...I got an email today asking if I would be willing to speak at young Christians Weekend in Branson, MO. The bands that will be there you ask? Leeland and Kutless. Yeah, I'm pretty pumped. God is opening some serious doors for me to share the Gospel on a large scale...Pray I'm faithful.

Been Tagged...Again

2009-01-15T09:41:00.005-06:00

Kristen tagged me. So here we go:

1. Choose the 4th folder where I store my pictures on the computer.

2. Select the 4th picture in the folder.

3. Explain the picture.

4. Tag 4 people to do the same.

5. No cheating (cropping, editing, etc.)

This is JP chilling on his John Deere at the grandparents house. That is his "Dude, mom, chill out with the picture taking" smile. Hope you enjoyed. I tag Marci, Slayer, Wes, and Jessie.

A Watchman

2009-01-14T08:55:00.003-06:00

A few years ago Andy Blankeship taught me that God has called us to be "Watchmen" over the people He has entrusted to us. For example, we were at a Summer Camp a few years back and Andy was my speaker. We always take all cell phones up from kids for the entire duration of the trip. As we were having a leaders meeting Andy started turning all of the kids cell phones on. I calmly asked, "Dude, what the heck are you doing??" He told me something profound that day. He said that the things a kid will never tell you are in their text messages. Read them!!

Ever since that moment I have been extremely protective of my students. I do read their texts when I get a hold of their phones. I have always had good enough relationships with our kids that I could confront them, challenge them, or rebuke them, and it has always been profitable and peaceful. For this, I am very thankful and realize how blessed I am. Then came last night...

We were at a basketball game here in Berryville. While we are at games I always make rounds to talk to all my kids and last night was no different, although, I did sit with my family next to some of our kids parents. Remember...I am very protective of my students and with the girls I have developed a terrible "Big Brother" syndrome. I hate dating. Boys are dirty and have one thing on their minds...therefore I am not the guy saying, "They are going to date...Let's teach them how to date godly." What a bunch or horse manure!! There is no reason in the world that kids should be allowed to go out by their selves and we should "trust" that we have taught them to do right. That temptation is just too strong...and yes you may succeed once, twice, or even for a whole month, but with each outing you begin to get more comfortable and relaxed and just like a war the enemy comes running in.

Sorry I went off on a little dirt road there...back to the story:

I saw a guy talking to one of our girl students. He was obviously a new kid who thought he was the coolest guy ever. You could tell that my girl student...we'll call her Betty...didn't want anything to do with this guy. But wherever she went he was there too. The biggest problem Betty has is that she has two real big brothers. I saw trouble coming from the very beginning. So as one big brother went to sit next to them the other sat right below them. Megan and I are watching this whole thing play out. I know I should have probably went and calmly pulled this guy to the side told him what was going to happen to him and then shared the Gospel with him, but I didn't see that happening after he started talking trash to one of the brothers. Obviously this guy wasn't the brightest kid ever. So I go over and sit right in the middle of all of them. Betty must of told him who I was and that I was a "big brother" also because when I went over there he quit talking and realized that I wasn't going to be 12 and beat him up but I would get him kicked out if I had too. I told Betty to come and sit with us and told the other two brothers to go sit somewhere else. We left and took Betty home and the night was over.

Did I handle this completely the right way? I'm not sure. But what I do know is that this guy left Betty alone and I saved him a bad butt-whooping and I didn't give her brothers a chance to start a BIG throw down. I prayed for this guy a lot last night. I saw me when I was in high school in him. Someone who is a slave. A slave to a look, attitude, popularity, a culture...a slave to sin. I saw someone who needs Jesus. I'm just praying that after last night he saw that I was watching out for him as much as I was for my three students.

Sunday Recap

2009-01-12T09:06:00.004-06:00

Maybe the two best sermons I have ever heard Bro. Scott preach was yesterday. I'm all about truth.
Sunday School was really good. James 3:1-12...tame the tongue.
I told Allen that he agreed to teach Sunday School for me...He quickly reminded me that I should quit dreaming.
AWANA kicked back off and I was pretty excited. I needed that extra 2 hours to do some school work, but spent the whole time hanging out with some of our students. The truth is...they are worth it.
We had a Honduras Mission meeting last night. I think it went really well even after I told them that suffering was inevitable. Probably not a smart move on my part but truth is truth. God is worthy to suffer for...Look at Jesus.
I asked the team to do two things for me last night. 1. Write down how much you have raised and 2. write down how much you are willing to pay for yourself. I need these numbers so I can know exactly how much we need to raise. God is good and last night we already have over half the expenses covered.
Russell and Erin came over to the house last night. While they were there, my phone rang and it was a guy from the church wanting Russell's number. I handed Russell the phone and all the man wanted to do was tell Russell how great our worship was yesterday. You have to love church members like that.

Saturday's 7

2009-01-10T08:36:00.002-06:00

I just read two of the girliest blogs ever...I feel a need to buy some Mary K. makeup and put bows on everything. These blogs will remain anonymous.
I have had the hardest time ever getting up to play basketball. Actually, it's been so hard today was the first day I have in a long time. We owe that to our broken heater that randomly decides to cut off on the coldest nights. So while I was up at 5:00 a.m. trying to get it back on I decided since I was up to go ahead and drive to Eureka.
Bad news from this morning: Everyone was making fun of this one guy from Thursday. He apparently tried to take out (physically hurt) two other guys on two separate occasions while playing ball. They were laughing because apparently this guy is a preacher in a nearby town. Their words, "It's always the preachers with the bad attitude because they can't take there anger out anywhere else (insert many cuss words throughout)."
This frustrates me so much. Most of the guys I play with know that I'm a youth pastor. They respect me and I know they weren't talking about me. I'm usually very quiet and I'm not near competitive enough to get angry over a basketball game. Listen to me Christians...we are losing the world because our attitude stinks. God will hold us accountable for this.
Life is getting busier. Upward is starting, school is starting, and it's time to start seriously planning this year's events. It's time to, "Do Work Son!!"
Speaking of school, this will be the hardest semester of all time. Math, a bible class, Church History, Romans, and Revelation in relation to Daniel. Oh the pain that comes from just thinking about it.
Good news: Allen Rogers has decided to teach the Adult Sunday School class for me just so I can finish this semester. He doesn't know he has decided this yet, but Allen has a great heart and he does an awesome job while I'm gone...Thanks Allen:)

Proverbs 17:1

2009-01-07T09:47:00.001-06:00

I was reading this week in Proverbs searching for a verse I had heard countless times, but I never knew exactly where it was located in Scripture. As I was scanning through chapter 17, I became deeply convicted as God spoke to me and reminded me of 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God breathed and profitable…” I stopped and repented for skimming the very words of God that He enabled men to write through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and I started over reading chapter 17 with a heart longing to hear from Him. I read verse one probably 20 times because I was so amazed at the deep and “profitable” wisdom it contained:

“Better is a dry morsel with quietthan a house full of feasting with strife.” Proverbs 17:1

With my New Year’s commitment to pray for the families of SHBC, I thought there was no better verse to meditate on. The writer of Proverbs tells us that family peace is more important than food itself. This year will you commit to pray for your family and others to have peace? Our faith must begin in the home and pour out into the community. How can we talk about the hope we have in Christ if we are miserable when we go home? Husbands and fathers, take the initiative to lead your family in a deeper walk with the Lord. Wives and mothers, be the example of how your husband should submit to the leadership of Christ and make your home your number one priority. The peace you have in your home is better than a feast.

You Must Suffer

2009-01-02T10:46:00.002-06:00

If you do nothing else today, please take 10 uninterrupted minutes and watch this video. Please. As Christians, God has not called us to a comfortable, easy, self-satisfying lifestyle. He has called us to suffer. He has called us to pain. He has called us to live a life that is all glorifying to Him and no other, but through this pain and suffering we can rejoice because God is all-satisfying in pain and tribulation. We rejoice for the sake of the Gospel for it is the power unto salvation. Are you living comfortably? Is there anything in your life that makes you believe in God that He will supply your every need? Something you are not in control of and it makes you trust Him? Please watch...

Adult Bible Study

2008-12-31T09:04:00.002-06:00

Today is New Years Eve...Tonight we have Church. I know what you are thinking, but this is one of the many things I really appreciate about our church. We don't ever just not have Church. Since Bro. Scott is out of town, I get to the lead the adult bible study tonight. I'm pretty pumped even though I think our numbers will be WAY down. We are going to talk about some New Years Resolutions. I did some research on the origin of these resolutions what I found out is that their motives for these resolutions back in 153 B.C. (the first recordings of New Years Resolutions) is pretty much the same as ours today. We want to be better this coming year than we were the last. Whether it is physical, emotional, or spiritual betterment...we want to be better. Tonight I'm going to share with the church some things I've committed myself to praying for in 2009 for this church:

1. I'm going to pray that we learn deeper (Hebrews 6:1-2)
2. I'm going to pray that the older mentor the younger (Titus 2:2-8)
3. I'm going to pray that we test God in our giving (Malachi 3:10)

Well, those are the three things that will be studied in depth tonight. My other hopes are that we will see the importance of family and that we will all commit to pray hard for our Body.

What are your resolutions??

Back on the Job

2008-12-30T15:28:00.009-06:00

I'm back here in my office and I thought I would give you a little pic post of my week in Bama...Hope you enjoy:

Our Christmas Card

JP watching TV wondering why he always has to watch what Dad wants to watch...
Opening Cars gift #1000

Enjoying Cars gift #1076

JP hanging out in his Dad's old bedroom talking to himself in the mirror...I think he may have bumped his head one too many times.

Grandma getting in on the action.

Dad jealous he didn't ever get this many gifts
Dad experiencing his first case of wrapping paper rage while JP plays with cars gift #2021

JP and Cars gift 2098

My brother and my smoking hot wife and thank the good Lord for everyday.
Look Marci, I am sweet:)
Mom helping with the gifts while Dad struggles with the wrapping

JP is...Top Gun
Megan's Dad dropping loads of knowledge on me.
REINDEER!! It's A REINDEER!! Think Buddy in the movie Elf where Will Ferrell freaks out because Santa's coming.

In-Laws Christmas Tree

JP opening the Jungle Book DVD...Megan was the one who really wanted it.

"CHOO CHOO!!" It's a Train!!

Tools to help Dad with some home improvements.

He loves this train...I love the pink couch in the background:) Megan's mom doesn't think it is pink but we all know the truth.

Well, that was a very condensed version of Christmas. I hope all you guys had a merry one. God is good.

Christmas Friday Five

2008-12-26T15:08:00.002-06:00

The Sowell Family Christmas vacation isn't over yet, but here are some of my favorite things that have happened so far:

My Favorite Gift: I'm not being girly or anything, but it was actually a Willow tree Angel Megan gave me. It was a guy sitting on a stack of books studying. Megan really appreciates my commitment to work and I'm thankful for that. A close second was the money I got from my parents...I'm coming Sears, Daddy needs a new TV:)
My Favorite Statement: "Boys are just ridiculously dirty dogs who only have one thing on there mind!!" Pastor Andy talking to his 15 year old cousin about boys.
Favorite Moment: Watching JP open his presents and then run to his grandparents and give them hugs...
Favorite Past time: Hunting with my father-in-law. He gave me the best spot on the field...his spot on the field. The man has hunted in that one spot ever since Megan and I have been together and let me sit there...It was fun bird shoot.
Favorite Food: Mom's peanut-butter cake. You just have no clue how good it is. Tied for second would have to be the homemade sausage and biscuits she cooked...ever morning and the lemon pie.

Christmas Day

2008-12-25T15:24:00.003-06:00

Dude things have been hectic since the trip home to Bama, and I know you all are out there in blog land are just dying to know what's going on here (can you here the sarcasm?) It's been good. I've hunted, hung out with family, played with JP, spent some good time with Megan, ate TONS of food, and I still have several days left. I'll have pictures and some thoughts for you when I get back in the office. I hope all you readers have a merry Christmas and remember: Christ was born just to die so that you and I could have life...God is good.

7 Days

2008-12-19T09:39:00.002-06:00

It is now seven days until Christmas. That's pretty exciting. I'm sure we all have huge Christmas plans that involve tons of food, family, and thirty different groups of people we are "required" to see. Here are a quick 7 things I'm looking forward to as we travel home to see family...

The drive. This may surprise some since the drive is so ridiculously long, but I enjoy my Megan and JP. Especially since Megan loves to drive:)
Food. Dude I am so ready to tear into the food my mom will have cooked just for me. Yeah that's right...just for me. I'm not exaggerating. She will cook whatever you ask her even if it is crazy. Kind of like Buddy on the movie Elf where he mixes cereal, pop tarts, spaghetti, and syrup. My mom loves me that much.
Weather. It was 80 degrees last week.
Peanut Butter Cake. I know this probably should have went with food, but if you ever eaten peanut butter cake you know it deserves it's own line. Nothing is better than this.
4 Christmases. No, not the movie. We literally have four different Christmases to go to. This is not something I'm looking forward to, but it is nice to see everyone.
Andy Blankenship. I love this guy and it seems like I only get to see him during Christmas.
Hunting. I don't care what you Arkansas folks say...nothing beats hunting in Alabama.

Morning Thoughts

2008-12-17T09:49:00.002-06:00

Prepare yourself for this statement..."I'm in a pretty serious mood this morning." I know this doesn't happen a lot, but here for the past couple of days it seems as though I can't be normal. So here are a few things that are rampaging in my mind:

I'm reading a book by Fancis Chan called "Crazy Love". I definitely recommend this one. Chan is one of the best preachers I've heard and the dude is committed to solid theology unlike most of the nut jobs out there.
The first chapter is filled with the theme of how awesome and big God is. Have you ever sat down and thought just how amazing this world is and how completely unimportant it seems on a universal scale. God chose us in the mist of the hugeness of the universe. It made me examine Psalm 46:10 in a whole new light.
I got to play basketball with a completely new group of guys last night at the community center. My desire is to be salty. I want people to see a difference in me while I'm playing and after we are done. Last night as I began to start developing some relationships, I got to meet another strong believer. God is good.
I just listened to the sermon "Jesus is NOT the reason for the season." Really intense...Check it out.
I'm praying really hard for Berryville right now. God is ready to do some big stuff in this town and I want to be a part of it. Do you??
Tonight's youth service is going to be extreme. "Complications, Celebration, and Compassion" is the title. Be ready see the Christmas story in a real way.
Shout out goes to my buddy Clint, a pastor down in Alabama. He preached a sermon in first person and I think it was a great idea. Thank you for your heart for the Gospel.
Like Slayer, I also hate Christmas music. But Relient K's "I Celebrate the Day" is still the best Christmas song of all time to me.
I wish my blog was as popular as Marci's.

So there you go...just some thoughts. I'm about to pray and read, and just seek the heart of God for a while. I'm pretty excited because I can feel a dry season coming to an end because the Grace of God is so incredible. If you are dry...let Him rain down on you.

My Reads

2008-12-15T09:29:00.003-06:00

If you noticed, I changed my "My Reads" section. I deleted some and added others. It is not that the ones I deleted were not worthy of my list, I have just realized how much time I waste reading blogs. The ones that stayed or were added...now those are worthwhile every day reads. Here is a breakdown of the Chosen Ones:

Slayer: Matt is a teacher a Berryville Highschool. A really cool guy with a much cooler last name (Sayer). He could be one of the smartest guys I've met in a long time. He is a politics machine and he loves sports. So this will always be an interesting read.

Marci: Marci is a charter member here at Southern Heights (joking). We love her family and her boy Benjamin and my boy JP are best friends. If you like all the froo-froo decorating stuff...this is a blog for you:) Plus, you'll get some hilarious stories pretty regularly.

TJ: Singer/Song writer who doesn't blog that often, but when he does prepare to get blown away by his use of words.

Wes: A youth pastor who needs to blog more often:) This guy is serious about the Faith

Jessie: A student here at DM. I understand she is WAY too busy, but I'll be selfish anyway and say, "Start blogging again!!"

Ryan: FBC Abbeville's upgrade from me:) Definitely in my top five greatest youth pastors of all time...

You Can Know God: Michael is the Pastor of Oak Leaf Church in Georgia. One of the most engaging speakers I have ever heard.

And They Laughed Until it Hurt: B-Dutt is a youth pastor over in Lowell, AR. I could learn a lot from this guy if he would write a little more often...yep Brad, I called you out:)

Kristen: Calvary Baptist Youth Group Alumni and Mom of the year award runner up...Who got first place you ask?? Well, my wife of course.

Mary Anne: Calvary Baptist Youth Group Alumni and the one who taught me that sarcasm is an art form. You must work at it.

Lucy: Calvary Baptist Youth Group Alumni and possibly the funniest person I have ever met. We see things on the same level.

Rise Up: Andy is a Pastor and cousin to my wife. One of my heroes and by far the boldest guy I have ever met.

I hope you check out these blogs. They are definitely worth your time.

**UPDATE** I, by all means, meant to add Kasey to the list. This was a honest mistake, for I cannot lie (I'm a youth pastor...we aren't allowed to lie). Kasey I'm sorry, and I honestly do read your blog every update. My mistake:)

Friday Five

2008-12-12T10:14:00.002-06:00

I just finished my last class and I'm already seeing some final grades posted. I made an A in Youth ministry (possibly the easiest class I've ever taken) and and A in The Book of Acts (possibly the second hardest class I've ever taken). I'm waiting on some final things to be graded in my Genesis class (possibly the hardest class I've ever taken). If I pull a B out of my butt for this class you will hear me rejoice all over town.
I need to go to Fayetteville extremely bad today, but my wife doesn't want me to go without her. Give me the husband of the year award for not going.
I'm actually feeling a lot better since I started excercising more regularly. Basketball is a blessing.
Marci turned...umm...I'm not sure if it is ok for me to post her age here or not, but her birthday is today. Marci, you are one cool chick and I appreciate you and Allen a lot. You guys make ministry in Berryville easier than it should be. I think this could be the first nice thing I have ever said to you:)
I graduate in May...I'm pretty sure I'll be quick to start my Master's, but we'll just have to wait and see.

Tagged

2008-12-11T10:20:00.002-06:00

Lucy called me out and said I would be the one who answers this...I can't help I don't have a life. I have to answer each question with one word. Here we go...
1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Your significant other? hot
3. Your hair? patchy
4. Your mother? hospitable
5. Your father? teacher
6. Your favorite thing? reading
7. Your dream last night? BAHAHAHA...(Marci ask me about this one)
8. Your favorite drink? milk
9. Your dream goal? satisfied
10. The room your in? office
11. Your fear? failure
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? content
13. Where were you last night? church
14. What your not? skinny
15. Muffins/donuts? both
16. One of your wish list items? truck
17. Where you grew up? B-ville
18. The last thing you did? text
19. What are you wearing? shorts
20. Your TV? movie
21. Your pet? dead
22. Your computer? life
23. Your life? computer
24. Your mood? relaxed
25. Missing someone? always
26. Favorite past time? basketball
27. Something your not wearing? underwear
28. Favorite store? Bass Pro
29. Your summer? Missions
30. Your favorite color? violet
31. When is the last time you laughed? today
32. Last time you cried? don't
33. Who will/would repost this? Marci
34. Four places I go over and over again? church, Eureka Springs, Wal-Mart, Lucky Dragon
35. Four people who email me?Dare 2 Share, Ebay, Facebook, Michael Whitt
36. Four of my favorite foods? Sweet and Sour Chicken, Chicken Wings, Chicken Alfredo, and Sausage Balls
37. Four places I would like to be right now? Thailand, Europe, Nicaragua, Oregon
38. Four people I tag: Marci, Wes, Jessie, and Brad

A Working Church

2008-12-09T09:37:00.002-06:00

I just want to give a shoutout to all those guys who have worked hard for Upward Basketball. I'm proud to be a apart of a church that has people willing to give up Saturday mornings and Monday nights to help serve the community. There are too many to name, but I really appreciate all you guys more than you know. God will bless you for your dedication to the Gospel.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-05T14:38:00.001-06:00

Megan has been constantly talking about Christmas cards. Well, I took it upon myself to give you this Christmas greeting from the Sowell family:

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Oasis and Verve

2008-12-03T11:25:00.002-06:00

For all of you younger kids out there that never got the opportunity to hear two of the greatest 90's bands ever, here is the acoustic cover of Oasis' "Wonderwall" and The Verve Pipe's "Freshman" by Boyce Avenue.

Notice the sweet percussion

More Bullet Points

2008-12-01T13:51:00.003-06:00

Dude, seriously. My blogging schedule has become as lame as a junior high relationship. So for you guys who may get on here to read some thoughts and ramblings...I'm sorry. School, work, and family has started taking up more time than ever. I'm a semester away from graduation, trying to figure out next years calendar, and I love my wife and son...I really want to spend time with them. So blogging has become as sparse as people in church over the holidays. Today, sadly I have nothing to offer but just a quick recap of my sometimes hilarious life:

School is almost over. I feels extremely good about the classes I finish in 2 weeks, and next semester will be tough but manageable.
I heat went out the one night it snows. No, I am not kidding. I woke up to a 50 degree house early Sunday morning.
What am I most thankful for this Thanksgiving? Well, we are extremely thankful for Allen, Marci, Benjamin, Georgia Kate. They invited us over to eat Thursday, they had normal food that didn't gross me out, I got to hear Allen make funny comments about Marci's mom (which was comforting to hear someone else make fun of there mother-in-law...Just joking Maxine), Benjamin completely occupied JP which was a relief, and Megan got her "I want a baby fix" by holding Georgia Kate.
What else you ask? Heath and Lisa for letting us stay with them while our heat was out, buying us food, and having the coolest place in the world. Funny story, their calf took a dump (not a small dump...a rather large dump) right by the door and Roxy (the small wiener dog) was running around it while we were leaving today. As we walked by JP said, "Look, Roxy pooped."
Honduras sign up is officially over and we have 14 for sure with the possibility of 16 to go...God is good.

Saturday's 7

2008-11-22T12:15:00.003-06:00

I went and played ball this morning in Eureka Springs. It's actually not too hard to get up on Saturday morning at 5:45 anymore. I think I may make this a daily habit...BAHAHA!!
Sunday School in the morning will be really good. The question is, "Can you be a Christian and not go to Church?" Another intense Sunday:)
Although this question is really good, the question concerning baptism was really good. I did, however, think it was going to go straight downhill after I read the question and Marci, who is faithful in giving me those "looks" when ever I start to digress, busted out in laughter.
NO- SHAVE NOVEMBER is still rocking. I even got a compliment from Miss Betty Rotramel:) It kind of made my day.
My quote for the day on my "desk quote giver thing" is: Live for God and not for things. Simple...yet challenging.
I think I'm going to head over to Bergman tonight with some friends and my lovely wife to go visit the Brand New Church. I'll let you know how that goes. I mean it's church on a Saturday night...that has to be good
For those of you concerned, I haven't been fired yet which is a plus. Pretty excited about that one actually.

The Youth Room

2008-11-20T09:35:00.003-06:00

Well, we came to the conclusion that 20 students in our house is a little too much on Wednesday nights. So I went and bought some new stuff for our flippin' sweet youth room. This way after service on Wed. nights the youth room will stay open till 9 and my house doesn't get crushed and I stayed married. We tried it out for the first time last night and it worked incredibly. We had a NCAA Football tourney which I would have dominated if I could have stopped the stinking option, the wii got some serious use before and after service, rock band was jamming hard in the corner, and ping pong was actually being played like it should have. I still hate the fact the I won't have the younger kids at the house as much, but I'm sure we will keep seeing the ones who can drive. Some of you guys wanted to see our new paint job so here it is:

This is next to our media area...sorry for the mess

This is the old game area, but it has completely been reorganized thanks to my wife and king decorator Russell

Yeah, that's Jesus. He hangs around our place:)

Oh Dook...

2008-11-18T09:44:00.003-06:00

Well, here's a funny story...that may eventually cost me my job...but nevertheless funny. A guy came into my office last week and here is how the conversation went:

Me- Whats up man? What can I do for you?

Him- I'm an artist and I'm in town for a little while...can I paint your youth room?

Me- Sure dude...go ahead

Of course I left out the part about me asking Mrs. Rama and Bro. Scott and they both said yes, but I still didn't have time to go through the proper approving channels that us Southern Baptist put in place so well. Well the guy did a fantastic job up stairs in the youth room and I will take pics and post them later when I'm not being so lazy. Then I had the bright idea, "Hey, let's do something in my office." Don't get me wrong I think the end result is freaking intense, but I'm just going to keep my door closed for awhile. He painted one of walls and this is how it turned out:

I know...ridiculous right!! It is insane and upstairs looks, in my opinion, even cooler. I just think it was really weird how this guy ended up here of all places. So I'm going to wait a few days to see if I'll be calling any of you for a job:)

You've Got Questions...We've Got Answers

2008-11-17T12:23:00.001-06:00

This was a lot more intense than I thought it would be. My apologizes for not expounding more on the last point:

Baptism? Do you have to be baptized a second time when coming from a church of a different denomination? Is baptism necessary for salvation? What about those who are sprinkled? Do you have to be dunked?

1. Here are some questions for you to think about as we go through this:
· What is baptism?
· Does Jesus command us to be baptized?
· Is baptism necessary for salvation?
· What does baptism accomplish?
· What is the proper method of baptism? Emersion, Sprinkling, Pouring, Baptistery, River??
· Why do churches, Southern Baptist in particular, ask you to be baptized a second time when coming from a different denomination?
2. What is baptism?
· Baptism is an outward sign of a person’s commitment to follow Jesus Christ.
3. Jesus was baptized.
· Matthew 3:13-17--13Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" 15But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. 16And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
· The baptism of Jesus was His public expression of His dedication to God’s will and the ministry.
· This event marked the beginning of His public ministry.
4. Jesus commands us to baptize.
· Throughout the public ministry of Jesus, His disciples were baptizing the converts. John 4:1-2-- 1Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2(although Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples),
· After the resurrection of Christ and during His 40 days of revealing Himself and His resurrected body to the people, Christ used these last days to give some final instructions. These instructions included the gospel and baptism. Matthew 28:18-20--18And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
5. Is baptism necessary for salvation?
· John 3:1-5-- 1Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him." 3Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." 4Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?" 5Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
· Baptism is not necessary for salvation. Jesus was simply speaking here about how people must be born twice. Once through natural childbirth and then through the Spirit.
· Baptism is simply a command of Christ that we follow, but it does not save or help save. It does not seal you or guarantee anything.
6. What then does it accomplish?
· Baptism is public demonstration of your faith.
· Baptism is a symbol of you dying to your old life and being raised anew with Christ. Romans 6:3-4-- 3Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
· If you are a believer, you will desire to be baptized. Acts 8:36-37-- 36And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, "See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?" 38And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.
· We must realize that it is an honor to be identified with Christ. We’ll put stickers on our car to identify with schools, the freemasons, clubs, but we can put off being identified with Christ.
7. What is the proper method of baptism?
· Baptism (baptizo) literally means: to undergo, to wash, to immerse
· The early church fathers (Calvin, Whitefield, Luther) of different denominations that now practice other methods of baptism each say that baptism was by immersion and immersion only.
· Sprinkling was originally done for the sick and bedridden only.
· Acts 8 and the Ethiopian tell us that it doesn’t matter where the water is…just as long as there is some water.
8. Why must people from different denominations be baptized a second time?
· The Baptist Faith and Message

What's Important?

2008-11-14T10:49:00.002-06:00

I feel like I have grown up. Wow!! That was a big statement for me. What brought that statement on exactly? Well, during my ordination council a good friend, deacon, and member of my old Sunday School class at FBC Abbeville asked, "Do you feel like you have grown up any?" That was by no means a demeaning statement, but a recognition that we all need to be continually "growing up". I feel like I have grown in several areas (please no these are not prideful statements because I realize that any growth I may experience comes completely from the grace of Jesus, and I also know that I have A LOT of growing up yet to do), and these "growths" are helping me prioritize the importance of things.

1. The Gospel= The all important message that we are sinners headed for death, judgment, and hell, but God who loves us so greatly decided to become a man so that He may live a sinless life, die a brutal death on a cross so that he could be the atonement for our sins, and then rise victoriously from the grave three days later conquering death and becoming the promise and hope of eternal life for those who place their faith in Christ as Savior so that not by works or anything we have done, but solely through the work of Christ He becomes our righteousness before God the Father.

2. The Mission= The ability to know this incredible Gospel and then share it with all who we meet.

3. The Family= Without my family...I have no ministry. When I become more passionate about my office hours than my bride, I have successfully become a moron that is not loving my wife like Christ loved the church and I'm being a horrible example for my son.

4. The Church= God has called me to this amazing calling of full-time ministry. I'm not sure why. I'm completely unqualified, unworthy, and unable. But God in His all sufficient grace has called me. I will love the church for it is the Body of Christ. We are His hands and Feet. I will support it and it's members to do all we can do to fulfill the Great Commission.

Please notice that I didn't make this list. Paul teaches us Philippians 2 that we should be like Christ and put others needs before our own. Notice I did not mention the color of the youth room (which is being painted at the very moment I'm writing this...) God never mentioned the biblical colors in Leviticus. Notice I didn't mention the style of music, because the style isn't important but the solidity of the message in the song.

I'm glad I'm growing up in Christ...I'm finally seeing that those important issues need more time and focus. I've wasted so much ministry for the sake of preferences. God forgive me, and thank you for growing me.

Update On...Me

2008-11-13T10:11:00.004-06:00

I'm fully aware that I may have lost all 4 of you guys that read this since it has been over a week since I last posted. What can I say?? I'm a slacker. Anyway, here is a little updaye on things going on lately:

Traveled to Alabama this past weekend with JP, Heath, and Lisa. I was kinda worried how we were going to do without SuperMom, but JP was actually incredible. Praise the Lord for portable DVD players. I am also thankful she decided to skip out on the easy plane ride home and make the 13 hour ride home with us.

While we were home I got to enjoy the Peanut Festival and take two Arkansans to see what a real fair looked like...Needless to say, they were impressed. Especially with the food.

Another big event that took place this weekend was my ordination. Yeah, that's right, I'm an ordained pastor now. I am, however, not above slapping you if you ever call me Reverend Ricky:)

I got to see several of my best friends while we were home including the world famous Phillip Weems...the Rock Star

I'm really pumped about what God is doing at FBC Abbeville. Bro. Mike is one of the most hardcore preachers I have ever met, and God gave me a great blessing by allowing me to serve with him in Abbeville.
I'm also glad I got to see my parents and my in-laws. They have some really amazing hearts, and I do not appreciate them enough.

Who is your Hope?

2008-11-05T10:15:00.002-06:00

My goal throughout this post is to stay cool and calm. I'm not sure how successful I'll be, but you got a fair warning at the beginning:

This whole election has been a cultural phenomenon. I honestly cannot remember anything like it. I was ok with all the disagreement since the beginning...every one has a right to an opinion. But here lately I have gotten real frustrated with strong believers thinking life is over because who they wanted to be in the White House didn't make it. People after People saying, "I'm moving to Canada" (Which is a godless place so apparently God is not your priority just your priority is your god), or "McCain or Amsterdam" (I'm sorry guys but even McCain can't legalize pot).

Please understand that I am aware that there may be some extremely tough times ahead. The frustrating thing for me is that I have heard many people ignore the fundamental truth of the Sovereignty of God!! Or if they do mention it...directly after is some negative comment about the future state of America!!

OK...I need to calm down before I write anymore...talk amongst yourselves...I'll give you a topic: "Football's are made of pigskin but you never hear PETA complaining about that." Discuss....(even in a heated moment I can make Saturday Night Live comments)

My buddy Ryan, who I do not get to talk to enough, wrote an incredible facebook note mentioning that our hope is not found in government, economic stability, or the military...It is found in King Jesus. The most powerful part was his mentioning of the children's future...He then asks a sobering question, "Will our children's future in the Gospel change??" I'm pleading with you brothers and sisters in Christ, know that God is sovereign. Do not lose faith in Christ because your candidate did not win...God is still God

Here is Ryan's note in whole if you want to read this short...convincing piece.

You've Got Questions, We've Got Answers part 2

2008-10-29T10:10:00.000-05:00

Is it ok to be friends with someone who is lost?
1. First let’s ask ourselves some questions:
· If we have lost friends, what does that say about your testimony?
· Can you think of any scripture references that speak to this question?
· If we don’t have lost friends, how will we ever be able to share the Gospel?
· Do we want our children under the influence of lost people?
· If we don’t have lost friends, when will our children ever see us share the Gospel?
2. Let’s look at a verse:
· 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 14Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? 15What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? 16What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said,"I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.17Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, 18 and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty."
· What does this verse mean? First of all, we get the Old Testament picture of livestock that are joined together but have different causes. One is pulling against the other and nothing beneficial will be accomplished. Using this analogy, we see Paul teaching us that a Christian not only should not, but cannot be joined together with an unbeliever in a committed relationship to accomplish anything spiritual.
· What does this include: Marriage, humanitarian projects, or any relationship that makes you an alliance for a certain spiritual cause?
3. The real Problem is not our association with unbelievers; it’s our association with professing Christians.
· 1 Corinthians 5: 9-13 9I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— 10 not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. 11But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. 12For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? 13God judges those outside. "Purge the evil person from among you."
· Paul says make sure you associate and even befriend the dirtiest of sinners, but he also says purge yourself of the ones who claim Jesus with their lips but practice these things.
· Paul says it’s not our job to judge people outside of the faith, but it is our job to judge the fruits of those who claim Christianity.
4. What about James 4:4
· James 4:4 4You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
· James calls the people prostitutes who profess Christ and are outwardly associated with the church, but are holding a deep affection for sin.
· Friendship (philia) this Greek word describes a love-friendship with strong emotional attachment. Those with a deep and intimate longing for the things of the world give evidence that they are not redeemed.
5. The fear of befriending lost people:
· 1 John 2:15-17 15 do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16For all that is in the world— the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
· The fear is that we will develop a love for things of the world. That the lust of our flesh will begin to be fed from their habits and possessions.
6. What about Jesus?? Does He say anything?
· Great Commission
· Zaccheus
· Woman at the Well
· Woman caught in adultery
· Accused of being a friend to sinners
7. Conclusion
· 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 19For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all that I might win more of them. 20 To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. 21To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people that by all means I might save some. 23I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.

Where's Waldo??

2008-10-28T10:18:00.003-05:00

Well, my creative wife decided to make JP a costume. See if you can find Waldo:

He really is a happy kid...I promise

This is right before we left for AWANA...I think he is excited

Confessions of a Youth Pastor

2008-10-27T13:30:00.000-05:00

Another confession…this one actually hurts. My pride can’t take many confessions like these, but I’m hoping after I put this out there that I will realize some serious truths about myself. But I guess I need to start with Saturday morning for this to make sense.

As most of you know I usually play basketball on Saturday mornings. Well, I didn’t get up with Nolan (my ballin’ partner) so I ended up going mountain bike riding with our worship leader, Russell. I have never been, but I’m always looking for the next adventure and plus this would help with my “Get in Shape” campaign. We took off up the mountain at Lake Leatherwood. I should have known by the name that this was not a good idea. I had no clue what to expect. I mean you can’t believe how clueless I was, but I was quickly informed as Russell dived off the main road into the woods and I was embraced by no small hill. This thing was a beast. I could feel my manhood slipping out from my grasp as I realized there was no climbing this mountain on a bike. So I jumped off and began the trek on foot. When it finally leveled off the fun began. I was dipping and dodging trees, up down the small ramp like hills, and then disaster struck. As you read this feel free to laugh, but please know that when this disaster struck it wasn’t funny. I mean Russell didn’t even laugh it looked SO BAD. If he doesn’t laugh…something is wrong. Russell is maybe 20 yards ahead of me so I really can’t see what to expect next. I then go straight down this 10 foot cliff. The back of my bike flies up and over the handle bars I fly. Funny right?? Yeah it was until I braced myself by hitting this tree, it then proceeded to break, and I landed full force chest first into the knife shaped stump I created. I was laying thinking I was about to die because I felt like my chest cavity was split. Russell thought the tree had punctured my body and was actually inside of me…it was literally the worst pain I had ever felt. He ran over to me and slowly rolled me over…like he was a trained medic or something. As he rolled me my shoulder began to pop and he comforted be by saying, “Well, your shoulder is either broken or it was dislocated and you just popped it back in place.” It turns out the latter was the verdict. I couldn’t breathe or feel my arm, but managed to get on my feet and walk off the mountain. The ER doctor told me to expect some serious muscle spasms as the tissue and cartilage I disintegrated begins to grow back together. I have a major whole in my chest and bruising all over my body.

What’s the confession? I’m not the 17 year old I once was. I think that is one of the most heartbreaking truths I must realize. When I was 17 there was nothing I couldn’t do. I was in shape, the metabolism was up, and the body was strong. It’s my fault because I know 50 year olds that are in better shape than I am. I always think of Larry Pitchford walking down Dothan Rd. scaring me because he was in such good shape. Resolution?? I’m getting in shape before I do anymore dumb things…

Question 2

2008-10-24T13:22:00.001-05:00

This week will will explore the question, "Is it ok to be friends with lost people?"

Another surprising answer for you Sunday...Be there and bring some friends

A 2 Year Old's Conviction

2008-10-22T09:04:00.002-05:00

Last night wasn't a good night. For several reasons, but that is not what this post is about. This post is about the conviction of a 2 year old that most Christians don't have. I was blown away. JP, for some reason, wasn't in the mood to go to sleep last night. Maybe it was because I tried to put him in bed at 8:30, a good 1 hour and a half or 2 hours before his normal bedtime. I know, we are horrible. So I told him to go lay down and we would read a story. We read this really cool little book about a Shepard losing his sheep and doing everything to find it and how Jesus loves us like that Shepard loves his sheep. I closed the book and looked at JP. We had this moment...It's hard to explain, but it's like God connected our hearts for a 5 seconds and it was amazing. He then continued to say, "Daddy we need to pray." I said, "Do you want me to pray or do you want to pray." After he very strongly told me that he was going to pray, He began by saying, "God thank you for:

Daddy, Mommy, Church, Benjamin (JP's best friend), Ms. Marci, Mr. Allen (Benjamin's parents), Craig, Ms. Mindy (Awana teachers), Ms. Rama (church secretary), Grandma, grandaddy, Mack Mack, Den Den, Mr. Brian (Megan's boss at Sears), Mr. Tommy (co-worker at Sears), the
lawnmowers, tools, and screwdrivers

After I saw that we were beginning to digress, I jumped in and said "and thank you for Jesus...amen." He could have went forever, but I stopped. I was laughing at first because of the things he was thankful for, but this morning the more I thought about it the more I realized he had something most don't. Even at two he understands God is the giver and He deserves to be thanked. Something I think we all know, but how many of us truly know?? Does that make sense? I guess I feel that our culture has become numb to the incredible attributes of God. And not because they are something we have been taught our whole lives, because the character of God is so amazing we will never be able to truly understand who He is. We've became numb because we have satisfied ourselves with a Vacation Bible School amount of knowledge of our Creator. We need to dig...

Desiring More

The End of an Era

Friday 5

It's In Your Underwear

Q & A

Fall Festival Fun

Picture Moments

Thursday Mind Dump

Words and Authority

Sweet Conviction

Watch Your Mouth Boy

She is Woman

Update

A Thankful Mind Dump

I Think My Water Just Broke

The Office

Bringing Blogging Back

Pleasure Seekers

Set Apart: Money

Confessions: Father/Son Workdays

Picture Moment

Teaching Scripture

Monday Mind Dump

Friday 5

Questions from Fayetteville...

Mind Dump

Friday 5

Mind Dump

A Home Office

Youtubia

Quote it...

Mind Dump

NBA Playoffs

Alabama Breakdown

Where Are You??

Confessions: A Windsor Knot

Saturday's 7

JP and the Baby Doctor

Mind Dump

Quote of the Day

I Have Seen The Light

Lock-In

Newsletter

Sunday Action

Kicking it Old School

Super JP

The Forgotten Golden Age

Monday Mind Dump

Saturday's 7

And The Cycle Continues

It's All Out There

Picture Time

Saturday's 7

Early Morning Thoughts

Where's Your Pants??

Friday's 5

Confession/Rant: The Bachelor

Communicating Compassion

Saturday's 7

Confessions of the Poo!!

Quote It

Monday Mind Dump

Jihad

Piper's Message to Obama

And We'll Do It Again

Lose Yourself

Friday Five

Feet Washing

Ice Ice Baby

Those Roads Were Really Bad

Been Tagged...Again

A Watchman

Sunday Recap

Saturday's 7

Proverbs 17:1

You Must Suffer

Adult Bible Study

Back on the Job

Christmas Friday Five

Christmas Day