Warning: I'm writing this while trying to keep an ear on the tv. These days, I'm not very good keeping track of one thought, let alone multi-tasking...
The beginning point of my political leaning is right of center. Since being old enough to step into the voting booth, I've voted for 2 Bushes and a Dole. I have always enjoyed politics and been very glad to be a conservative at multiple levels and a registered Republican.
But lately, I've had a growing desire to think beyond the politics to the impact of policy. As a follower of Jesus, I want to integrate my faith into every area of my life -- including my politics.
So I've been watching the Democratic National Convention. I confess that some of what I've seen and heard has been pretty inspiring. The speech by Barak Obama, Senate Candidate from Illinois, was great. He painted a picture of America that resonated with me -- a picture of equality, responsibility, hope, and fairness. If the vote was for him, I might be swayed...but then he talked about John Kerry. The two things didn't seem to jive. But that's just my impression for now...
I don't know much about John Kerry. I'll listen to his speech and watch him on the campaign trail. I want to be open to changing my opinion.
I admire the candor of George Bush's faith in Jesus. I believe he's sincere in his devotion to Christ. I admire his steadfastness in leadership. I wish that he would integrate his faith into care for the poor in a more proactive way.
Here's what's important to me in a president:
1) personal character
2) policies that are built on a foundation of compassion for the broken and responsibility for everyone
3) foreign policy that seeks justice through diplomacy and integrity -- doing what you say you will do
4) international compassion for people and nations that can't stand up unde the pressure of capitalism -- fair traide, debt forgiveness, justice in nations even if there are not immediate American considerations (Africa, for example).
This won't be the last time that I'll process some of this here. What are your thoughts as we jump headlong into the campaign season?
Peace,
M@
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
hole in one!
I got a hole in one yesterday! No, I wasn't golfing...I was taking care of both kids all day while Heidi went back to Roswell Park. The "hole in one" has to do with Libby's nap during the day. Usually, getting her to sleep includes some crying and pick-up/put-downs over the course of about 20 minutes. Not this time...I saw the eyes droop during her bottle, swaddled her, and got her down. Then...nothing...it was beautiful! She didn't make one peep!
Now granted, that was only one nap of many throughout the day...but I'll take the ace whenever I get it!
The rest of the day was great with both of them. Libby was good to Daddy on his first day on duty. Izak was a charmer all day long and gave me a good nap, which helped me get a few things done. I know that I was lucky, but I'll take it!
Back at the office today. It's about 1030 am right now...no wait, it's actually 430! Can't believe how this day has flown by. I've got about 2 inches of papers on my desk, so I'll be going now...time to get the leaf blower fired up!
Peace,
Matt
Now granted, that was only one nap of many throughout the day...but I'll take the ace whenever I get it!
The rest of the day was great with both of them. Libby was good to Daddy on his first day on duty. Izak was a charmer all day long and gave me a good nap, which helped me get a few things done. I know that I was lucky, but I'll take it!
Back at the office today. It's about 1030 am right now...no wait, it's actually 430! Can't believe how this day has flown by. I've got about 2 inches of papers on my desk, so I'll be going now...time to get the leaf blower fired up!
Peace,
Matt
Sunday, July 25, 2004
This van breaks for...
...everything! Friday was cruising along at a fine speed when I got the phone call. Heidi explained that the rear tire on the van won't move. Hmmm...very interesting. Not sure what I could do to rememdy the problem, I went home.
Jumped in...turned it on...put the van in "drive"...and sure enough...three tires roll, one doesn't. Back up. Same. Forward again. Nothing.
I have pretty must one mechanical skill. In many cases, it's not too useful. But I think I could appropriately apply it here. So I pulled out my hammer and wacked at the break drum from behind the wheel. Then I dragged the van down the driveway until the wheel let loose and all four tires worked! I'm a hero!
Not really. There's still and problem that needs to be fixed. But it's nice to be partly useful, especially when it involves whacking something with a hammer!
Saturday was a long day. Heidi and I host a day-long marriage preparation seminar for couples planning to be married at our church. We do some teaching along with some other couples. It's a great day.
But it started out a little hairy...I was about to begin my first session. The couples were gathered and ready to begin their relational bootcamp. Let me pull out my notes...hmmm...this is the right folder...why aren't they here? I have everyone else's lesson, but not mine!! Hello!!! Time to panic. But I kept the game face on, asked to be excused, and then went to the bathroom so that last night's mexican could make a prompt exit. Five minutes into the seminar, disaster awaited.
I could either go tell the couples to wait some more while I tried to find my notes. Or I could go inthere and wing it. Well, I've done this seminar enough times to get through, so I went with the winging it option.
At the end of the first session, Heidi commented that this time was about the best she's heard! God, you're funny that way.
The rest of the day went along well. I think the the couples got some stuff out of it. And Heidi and I always have a good time.
The van's in the shop so that someone with real skills can take a look at it. Heidi works tomorrow for the first time since Libby's birth -- which means I'm at home with both kids for the first time by myself...I'll fill you in on that one Tuesday.
peace,
Matt
Jumped in...turned it on...put the van in "drive"...and sure enough...three tires roll, one doesn't. Back up. Same. Forward again. Nothing.
I have pretty must one mechanical skill. In many cases, it's not too useful. But I think I could appropriately apply it here. So I pulled out my hammer and wacked at the break drum from behind the wheel. Then I dragged the van down the driveway until the wheel let loose and all four tires worked! I'm a hero!
Not really. There's still and problem that needs to be fixed. But it's nice to be partly useful, especially when it involves whacking something with a hammer!
Saturday was a long day. Heidi and I host a day-long marriage preparation seminar for couples planning to be married at our church. We do some teaching along with some other couples. It's a great day.
But it started out a little hairy...I was about to begin my first session. The couples were gathered and ready to begin their relational bootcamp. Let me pull out my notes...hmmm...this is the right folder...why aren't they here? I have everyone else's lesson, but not mine!! Hello!!! Time to panic. But I kept the game face on, asked to be excused, and then went to the bathroom so that last night's mexican could make a prompt exit. Five minutes into the seminar, disaster awaited.
I could either go tell the couples to wait some more while I tried to find my notes. Or I could go inthere and wing it. Well, I've done this seminar enough times to get through, so I went with the winging it option.
At the end of the first session, Heidi commented that this time was about the best she's heard! God, you're funny that way.
The rest of the day went along well. I think the the couples got some stuff out of it. And Heidi and I always have a good time.
The van's in the shop so that someone with real skills can take a look at it. Heidi works tomorrow for the first time since Libby's birth -- which means I'm at home with both kids for the first time by myself...I'll fill you in on that one Tuesday.
peace,
Matt
Thursday, July 22, 2004
life in the fast lane...
Some days are lived in the fast lane...getting stuff done, meeting with people, living on the edge. Then there are days like the past few...pull over to the right lane and sail along just under the speed limit. Sure, a few people will get on my case and honk...but that's just the way things are for now.
Yesterday, I met with Eric, who is the church planter for Bethlehem (blog link to the right). He's a great guy. The vision is coming together for this new church on the West Side of Buffalo. The launch is the weekend of August 22. I'm hoping that a bunch of people from WCH will be a part of that. It's just exciting to see something coming together.
Today is a study day...that means I try to shut myself in my office to pray, read, and prepare for upcoming messages. I'm speaking in the weekend services August 7 & 8. I'm also doing a year of messages for Catalyst, the young adult gig here.
That's the scoop for today...so far.
Matt
Yesterday, I met with Eric, who is the church planter for Bethlehem (blog link to the right). He's a great guy. The vision is coming together for this new church on the West Side of Buffalo. The launch is the weekend of August 22. I'm hoping that a bunch of people from WCH will be a part of that. It's just exciting to see something coming together.
Today is a study day...that means I try to shut myself in my office to pray, read, and prepare for upcoming messages. I'm speaking in the weekend services August 7 & 8. I'm also doing a year of messages for Catalyst, the young adult gig here.
That's the scoop for today...so far.
Matt
Tuesday, July 20, 2004
family day...
Mondays are family days. We don't answer phones and we hang out together. Especially Libby...she's really good at just hanging out...
Yesterday was a good day. Libby is still learning to sleep -- crazy doesn't it? "Learning to sleep." But I guess we all had to learn just about everything we do every day...she'll get it soon enough.
Izak is a madman outside. He' can't get enough of it. Rain, sun, wind...doesn't matter, as long as he's outside.
Heidi continues to be awesome as a wife and mother. I love hanging out with her...that's a pretty cool reality after 12 years together (10 years of marriage this fall!).
Had a great conversation with a mentor/friend from Michigan. Denny's a great guy who has been there for me since I was 7 years old. There are still some model airplanes, yet to be assembled, in his atic somewhere...thanks, friend.
I've got less than 6 weeks to get ready for another ministry year...about 6 weeks less than I wish I had. But ready or not, fall comes in Buffalo! I'm excited about this year...I think big things will happen.
I'm on my way into staff meeting for the morning. I'm one of those sick people who generally likes meetings -- depending on the poeple I'm with and if we actually get stuff done.
Gotta go...
M@
Yesterday was a good day. Libby is still learning to sleep -- crazy doesn't it? "Learning to sleep." But I guess we all had to learn just about everything we do every day...she'll get it soon enough.
Izak is a madman outside. He' can't get enough of it. Rain, sun, wind...doesn't matter, as long as he's outside.
Heidi continues to be awesome as a wife and mother. I love hanging out with her...that's a pretty cool reality after 12 years together (10 years of marriage this fall!).
Had a great conversation with a mentor/friend from Michigan. Denny's a great guy who has been there for me since I was 7 years old. There are still some model airplanes, yet to be assembled, in his atic somewhere...thanks, friend.
I've got less than 6 weeks to get ready for another ministry year...about 6 weeks less than I wish I had. But ready or not, fall comes in Buffalo! I'm excited about this year...I think big things will happen.
I'm on my way into staff meeting for the morning. I'm one of those sick people who generally likes meetings -- depending on the poeple I'm with and if we actually get stuff done.
Gotta go...
M@
Sunday, July 18, 2004
You say it's your birthday...
...it's my birthday, too! No, really, it is. Today I'm 31 (notice that Heidi's most recent birthday brought a close to her 33rd year). And frankly, it doesn't seem like that big a deal. I'm not against birthdays; I don't cringe at the thoughts of being in my 30s.
But the thirties are suppose to being with them pretty big things -- success, financial stability, productivity...all the things that prepare you for your forties.
Here are my goals for my thirties...
1) Get out of debt. I'm okay with a car loan and home loan. But other than that, I don't want credit cards, family loans, or school debt hanging over my head. Why? Because it hinders my ability to give.
2) By 35 I want to be in the community that will house my burial plot. On staff at Hamburg Wesleyan, I'm seeing the great benefits of long-term investment in a community -- Greg has been senior pastor for more than 25 years and Bill, the Associate Pastor has been here over 20. I want that kind of long-term perspective and leadership in my life. I don't know where this will take me. And I may not get what I wish for. But in the next 4 years, I would like to be settled in a community that will be better in 40 years because of my family's investment.
3) Part of #2 is my sense of "calling" to lead a church as a lead pastor. I have been affirmed in that notion in my time here. I suppose that might play out here, in Hamburg. But sometime before I turn 40, I'd like to be in that role and leading a worshipping community in making a difference in the world.
4) New house. 1 boy. 1 girl. 1 set of mommy and daddy. 2 bedroom house. Not good. At some point, we're going to need to remodel, move, or build on the back of our land. All of which seems to rail against the spirit of #1.
5) Be more like Jesus. I'd like people to be attracted to Jesus living in me. That will mean that I'll get a little less aggitated when someone turns left in front of me at an intersection; it means I won't get quite so mad when the snowblower won't start. It means I will be quick to give a word of encouragement at the right time and a little less quick to hand out criticisms. It means that maybe, just maybe, I can finally put to death the selfishness that lurks inside.
5 goals. 9 more years. I'll check back with you around 2013.
Peace,
M@
But the thirties are suppose to being with them pretty big things -- success, financial stability, productivity...all the things that prepare you for your forties.
Here are my goals for my thirties...
1) Get out of debt. I'm okay with a car loan and home loan. But other than that, I don't want credit cards, family loans, or school debt hanging over my head. Why? Because it hinders my ability to give.
2) By 35 I want to be in the community that will house my burial plot. On staff at Hamburg Wesleyan, I'm seeing the great benefits of long-term investment in a community -- Greg has been senior pastor for more than 25 years and Bill, the Associate Pastor has been here over 20. I want that kind of long-term perspective and leadership in my life. I don't know where this will take me. And I may not get what I wish for. But in the next 4 years, I would like to be settled in a community that will be better in 40 years because of my family's investment.
3) Part of #2 is my sense of "calling" to lead a church as a lead pastor. I have been affirmed in that notion in my time here. I suppose that might play out here, in Hamburg. But sometime before I turn 40, I'd like to be in that role and leading a worshipping community in making a difference in the world.
4) New house. 1 boy. 1 girl. 1 set of mommy and daddy. 2 bedroom house. Not good. At some point, we're going to need to remodel, move, or build on the back of our land. All of which seems to rail against the spirit of #1.
5) Be more like Jesus. I'd like people to be attracted to Jesus living in me. That will mean that I'll get a little less aggitated when someone turns left in front of me at an intersection; it means I won't get quite so mad when the snowblower won't start. It means I will be quick to give a word of encouragement at the right time and a little less quick to hand out criticisms. It means that maybe, just maybe, I can finally put to death the selfishness that lurks inside.
5 goals. 9 more years. I'll check back with you around 2013.
Peace,
M@
Friday, July 16, 2004
I'm feeling better, now...
When you read the title, make sure you use a British accent and mentally reference Monty Python's "Search For The Holy Grail." Otherwise it's just an update on my health.
I have a little virus thingy that is making its way out of my system. I have little "pin-prick" blisters on my hands and feet...such fun.
But so far, no one else in my family has it...thank God!
No big plans for the weekend. Should be fairly quiet. Although...by saying that I just set myself up for a doozy!!
Libby is great...still eating us out of house and home...good thing her supply is free...just have to keep feeding mommy!
Izak seems like he's turned a developmental corner. Ladies and gentlemen, introducing...the will. There is a little fight going on inside him at times. He knows that he shouldn't touch the computer...but he...wants...to...so...bad...it...hurts...
I got to spend some time this past week with Dale. He's a friend that I got to know as a part of our church community. He has always been a great pray-er -- meaning that he is quick to turn to God to pray in every situation. And God responds to his (and all of our) dependence on Him. He's a peaceful man with a growing spirit.
Dake worked for many years at one of the local utility companies. They presented him with the option of early retirement. He took it. Not to golf or lounge around or pick up new hobbies. He took the early retirement because they would mostly fund a new life serving God in other parts of the world.
So he spent the last year doing mechanical engineering in Chad, Africa to support the translation work of an organization called Wycliff. This organization sends a few people into a community that doesn't have a written language. These people are trained and gifted to learn a spoken language, develop an alphabet based on the sounds they hear, and then create a written language. From that, they develop educational material on life skills like farming, health, community concerns, and spiritual matters. It's absolutely incredible. (FYI - My step-sister and her family are translators in Thailand...incredible work!)
These translators need homes that work. Dale, and others like him, travel around the world and update kitchens with running water, repair broken solar panels for electricity (a few hours a day), and whatever else needs to be done.
Anyway, I have the utmost respect for Dale. He served his time in the workforce. He deserved to take it easy until...whenever. But he knew that God has been preparing him and calling him to use his skills and gifts to serve others.
Initially, I think that Dale's situation deserves special merit badges and celebration. But isn't that what Jesus' followers are called to, no matter where we live and work? No matter what our skills are? Aren't we all called to go wherever and do whatever needs to be done? It's not so much that Dale is a spiritual giant...it's just that many of us are too comfortable as spiritual babies...notice I said "us."
I'm not sure what I need to do in response to this. But lunch with Dale was a good challenge to me...and challenge to make a crazy, radical, strange life of following Jesus into something more normative.
Here's to livin' crazy!
Matt
I have a little virus thingy that is making its way out of my system. I have little "pin-prick" blisters on my hands and feet...such fun.
But so far, no one else in my family has it...thank God!
No big plans for the weekend. Should be fairly quiet. Although...by saying that I just set myself up for a doozy!!
Libby is great...still eating us out of house and home...good thing her supply is free...just have to keep feeding mommy!
Izak seems like he's turned a developmental corner. Ladies and gentlemen, introducing...the will. There is a little fight going on inside him at times. He knows that he shouldn't touch the computer...but he...wants...to...so...bad...it...hurts...
I got to spend some time this past week with Dale. He's a friend that I got to know as a part of our church community. He has always been a great pray-er -- meaning that he is quick to turn to God to pray in every situation. And God responds to his (and all of our) dependence on Him. He's a peaceful man with a growing spirit.
Dake worked for many years at one of the local utility companies. They presented him with the option of early retirement. He took it. Not to golf or lounge around or pick up new hobbies. He took the early retirement because they would mostly fund a new life serving God in other parts of the world.
So he spent the last year doing mechanical engineering in Chad, Africa to support the translation work of an organization called Wycliff. This organization sends a few people into a community that doesn't have a written language. These people are trained and gifted to learn a spoken language, develop an alphabet based on the sounds they hear, and then create a written language. From that, they develop educational material on life skills like farming, health, community concerns, and spiritual matters. It's absolutely incredible. (FYI - My step-sister and her family are translators in Thailand...incredible work!)
These translators need homes that work. Dale, and others like him, travel around the world and update kitchens with running water, repair broken solar panels for electricity (a few hours a day), and whatever else needs to be done.
Anyway, I have the utmost respect for Dale. He served his time in the workforce. He deserved to take it easy until...whenever. But he knew that God has been preparing him and calling him to use his skills and gifts to serve others.
Initially, I think that Dale's situation deserves special merit badges and celebration. But isn't that what Jesus' followers are called to, no matter where we live and work? No matter what our skills are? Aren't we all called to go wherever and do whatever needs to be done? It's not so much that Dale is a spiritual giant...it's just that many of us are too comfortable as spiritual babies...notice I said "us."
I'm not sure what I need to do in response to this. But lunch with Dale was a good challenge to me...and challenge to make a crazy, radical, strange life of following Jesus into something more normative.
Here's to livin' crazy!
Matt
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
102 degrees...
That's what you'd expect on a nice afternoon in Arizona. But when it's your personal temperature...that stinks! It's never good to be sick. But when you have two kids and a wife who's counting on you for some of the lifting at home, being sick is really, really bad. My temp is normal today, but I'm still not feeling quite right.
Overall, it was a good weekend. Had a couple weddings on Saturday -- always fun. Good worship on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Then the church had a picnic Sunday afternoon. Over 500 people showed up for dogs and a dunk tank.
Greg, the senior pastor, was the big draw at the dunk tank, but, for some reason, there was a pretty good line when I was in there, too! It might be that I have a real gift for badgering people!! What a great time!
Got nine holes of golf in before the fever hit Monday afternoon.
Tuesday...back at the office, getting my head in order for the week ahead. Not too much coming down the pike...at least that I can see.
That's the news from Hamburg...
Overall, it was a good weekend. Had a couple weddings on Saturday -- always fun. Good worship on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Then the church had a picnic Sunday afternoon. Over 500 people showed up for dogs and a dunk tank.
Greg, the senior pastor, was the big draw at the dunk tank, but, for some reason, there was a pretty good line when I was in there, too! It might be that I have a real gift for badgering people!! What a great time!
Got nine holes of golf in before the fever hit Monday afternoon.
Tuesday...back at the office, getting my head in order for the week ahead. Not too much coming down the pike...at least that I can see.
That's the news from Hamburg...
Friday, July 09, 2004
"intentional"
Met with the Catalyst Lead Team for most of the afternoon today. We spent part of the time partaking at George's (a great burger and dog place in the woods on Boston, NY). Then we spent time talking about life and praying together -- not in the regular time-to-begin-the-meeting sort of way, but just praying out of our experience together. It was very cool.
We spent most of our time talking about our identity as Catalyst. Are we defined by the worship gathering that we do on Thursday nights or are we defined by something broader than that? We fell off the log by agreeing (I think) that we are defined by the community that is being formed. The worship gathering is a part of that. But so are the late night conversations over coffee; so is ultimate frisbee and volleyball; so is the Monday night True Beauty discussion group. All of these things are activities that help us connect as a community of young adults who are all about following and becoming like Jesus. What a great foundation!!
It seems like every other thought in my brain is about my family. I don't suppose that's a bad thing, but there is just so much going on. Izak is feeling terrible -- probably cutting teeth, but maybe a virus; but he's still more charming than a 20-month-old should be. Libby is...one month old as of yesterday. Heidi turned 3_ yesterday (and she gets more hot with the years -- like fine wine). I just can't believe that God has given me such a great family! I love them like crazy!
Two weddings tomorrow. Each one is different.
Life's good! And when life isn't, God is...
Peace,
M@
We spent most of our time talking about our identity as Catalyst. Are we defined by the worship gathering that we do on Thursday nights or are we defined by something broader than that? We fell off the log by agreeing (I think) that we are defined by the community that is being formed. The worship gathering is a part of that. But so are the late night conversations over coffee; so is ultimate frisbee and volleyball; so is the Monday night True Beauty discussion group. All of these things are activities that help us connect as a community of young adults who are all about following and becoming like Jesus. What a great foundation!!
It seems like every other thought in my brain is about my family. I don't suppose that's a bad thing, but there is just so much going on. Izak is feeling terrible -- probably cutting teeth, but maybe a virus; but he's still more charming than a 20-month-old should be. Libby is...one month old as of yesterday. Heidi turned 3_ yesterday (and she gets more hot with the years -- like fine wine). I just can't believe that God has given me such a great family! I love them like crazy!
Two weddings tomorrow. Each one is different.
Life's good! And when life isn't, God is...
Peace,
M@
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
tribute to my wife...
Heidi rocks!! That's all there is to it. She was up most of the night last night...Libby was really tearing it up. I'm not too good in the middle of the night, so she tends to take those shifts. Last night was tough.
Babies change your life. Enter your nominations for "Understatement Of The Year" now...
I don't go out as much as I used to. I don't golf as much as I used to. I don't get to do as many projects and special events at work these days. I sleep less. I don't get to fall into my chair when I get home from a long day. Heidi and I haven't been to Vermont in years -- and it will be last that long before we actually do make the trip again.
But the changes that have taken place in my life are nothing compated to what Heidi has given up. She has put her career in medicine on hold. She'd be a great doctor and is smart enough to make it into medical school with half her brain tied behind her back (see, I'd fail anatomy). But she gave that up to be a mommy. She could be a nurse manager in a hospital (she has been asked wherever she's worked). But she is giving herself to manage our home. She doesn't get to stroll up and down the grocery aisles any more -- now she navigates right down the middle so as to be out of arms length from the 3 foot suction cup that goes with her everywhere.
My life has changed these past couple years. Heidi has given up her life and been given something totally new...something that, at times, barely resembles a life. And she did it on purpose. She chose to become a mommy.
She's an awesome mommy, too. I love to watch her care for our kids. Izak adores her! She sits with him and plays with him. She challenges his growing mind as she talks with him. And even when Libby is screaming at night, she is so gentle and loving, whispering her love into my daughter's ears. She's patient...gentle...kind...loving...merciful.
Heidi has given up so much of what was important to her. But in return, she has gained that which she has always hungered for...Jesus. Because she put to death her self, she has gained life like Him.
I love Heidi. I respect Heidi. I...you know, there just aren't the right words sometimes.
Matt
ps - check out her thoughts on motherhood by linking to her blog at the right...
Babies change your life. Enter your nominations for "Understatement Of The Year" now...
I don't go out as much as I used to. I don't golf as much as I used to. I don't get to do as many projects and special events at work these days. I sleep less. I don't get to fall into my chair when I get home from a long day. Heidi and I haven't been to Vermont in years -- and it will be last that long before we actually do make the trip again.
But the changes that have taken place in my life are nothing compated to what Heidi has given up. She has put her career in medicine on hold. She'd be a great doctor and is smart enough to make it into medical school with half her brain tied behind her back (see, I'd fail anatomy). But she gave that up to be a mommy. She could be a nurse manager in a hospital (she has been asked wherever she's worked). But she is giving herself to manage our home. She doesn't get to stroll up and down the grocery aisles any more -- now she navigates right down the middle so as to be out of arms length from the 3 foot suction cup that goes with her everywhere.
My life has changed these past couple years. Heidi has given up her life and been given something totally new...something that, at times, barely resembles a life. And she did it on purpose. She chose to become a mommy.
She's an awesome mommy, too. I love to watch her care for our kids. Izak adores her! She sits with him and plays with him. She challenges his growing mind as she talks with him. And even when Libby is screaming at night, she is so gentle and loving, whispering her love into my daughter's ears. She's patient...gentle...kind...loving...merciful.
Heidi has given up so much of what was important to her. But in return, she has gained that which she has always hungered for...Jesus. Because she put to death her self, she has gained life like Him.
I love Heidi. I respect Heidi. I...you know, there just aren't the right words sometimes.
Matt
ps - check out her thoughts on motherhood by linking to her blog at the right...
Monday, July 05, 2004
family day...
Mondays are family days around the Furr house. I love 'em! Today was a great one. Didn't do much...just played around the house. Izak and I took the dog for a long walk this morning. We both took a long nap after lunch. Mommy and Libby ate and slept (well, Libby slept and ate...Mommy fed and rocked).
Tonight, Heidi's at a study on true beauty for young adult women. It's been a great thing for the past couple weeks. There is so much garbage out there about beauty...mostly propogated by men. I'm so thankful that I have a wife who will help teach my daughter about inner beauty that comes from submitting herself to Jesus.
Z-Dog's in bed (still chattering a bit) and I've got a couple hours to myself...ahhh, I love family days!
Peace,
M@
Tonight, Heidi's at a study on true beauty for young adult women. It's been a great thing for the past couple weeks. There is so much garbage out there about beauty...mostly propogated by men. I'm so thankful that I have a wife who will help teach my daughter about inner beauty that comes from submitting herself to Jesus.
Z-Dog's in bed (still chattering a bit) and I've got a couple hours to myself...ahhh, I love family days!
Peace,
M@
family day...
Mondays are family days around the Furr house. I love 'em! Today was a great one. Didn't do much...just played around the house. Izak and I took the dog for a long walk this morning. We both took a long nap after lunch. Mommy and Libby ate and slept (well, Libby slept and ate...Mommy fed and rocked).
Tonight, Heidi's at a study on true beauty for young adult women. It's been a great thing for the past couple weeks. There is so much garbage out there about beauty...mostly propogated by men. I'm so thankful that I have a wife who will help teach my daughter about inner beauty that comes from submitting herself to Jesus.
Z-Dog's in bed (still chattering a bit) and I've got a couple hours to myself...ahhh, I love family days!
Peace,
M@
Tonight, Heidi's at a study on true beauty for young adult women. It's been a great thing for the past couple weeks. There is so much garbage out there about beauty...mostly propogated by men. I'm so thankful that I have a wife who will help teach my daughter about inner beauty that comes from submitting herself to Jesus.
Z-Dog's in bed (still chattering a bit) and I've got a couple hours to myself...ahhh, I love family days!
Peace,
M@
Sunday, July 04, 2004
Euchre...
Played some cards with Sarah and Dave Friday night. It was good to see them and spend some time with just them. Every time I've seen them since they were married a few years ago, it's been in a context with many other people. They stopped in on their way home from a long trip out east. And though they were really anxious to be home, they stayed for the night.
Becca, my niece is growing up. I guess most of them do that, but somehow I'm a bit startled by this. I guess it's because I don't see her daily that I notice that she shoots up about 4 feet every time I see her. Okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but you get the point.
They were the last visitors for a while. The next big influx will be in August, when we will do a special service to dedicate Libby to God. It's a special thing in a family. As parents, we recognize that this little girl is a gift to us. She has been entrusted to our care by her Creator and we are responsible to Him for how we participate in shaping her into a Godly women. It's a very spiritual decision. The decision part is ours. But there will be spiritual ramifications for Libby, too.
Whether she realizes it or not, her dedication service is the first of what will be many markers on her journey to know and follow God through faith in Jesus. The faith in Jesus part is all hers. I can influence and pray and teach and model as best I can. But she's the one who will need to make that choice -- the choice of whether or not Jesus will be her master.
This weekend at the worship gathering, there is a special group in from an organization called Teen Challenge. They have over 150 sites throughout the world where teend and post-teens get help overcoming addictions and destructive habits. These are kids who have gone through some pretty hard core things too early in their lives. But in the community of Teen Challenge, they find freedom and grace. For over 85% of them, it's the beginning of a brand new life. There is no other program in the world which has that sort of success in helping people experience freedom.
It's a pretty powerful reminder of the freedom that Christ has given those who follow him. Not freedom through legalism and ritual. Not freedom that translates into license to do anything without cost. But freedom to be the people that God designed us to be -- to reflect His character.
Thank you, God, for the freedom you offer.
Peace,
Matt
Becca, my niece is growing up. I guess most of them do that, but somehow I'm a bit startled by this. I guess it's because I don't see her daily that I notice that she shoots up about 4 feet every time I see her. Okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but you get the point.
They were the last visitors for a while. The next big influx will be in August, when we will do a special service to dedicate Libby to God. It's a special thing in a family. As parents, we recognize that this little girl is a gift to us. She has been entrusted to our care by her Creator and we are responsible to Him for how we participate in shaping her into a Godly women. It's a very spiritual decision. The decision part is ours. But there will be spiritual ramifications for Libby, too.
Whether she realizes it or not, her dedication service is the first of what will be many markers on her journey to know and follow God through faith in Jesus. The faith in Jesus part is all hers. I can influence and pray and teach and model as best I can. But she's the one who will need to make that choice -- the choice of whether or not Jesus will be her master.
This weekend at the worship gathering, there is a special group in from an organization called Teen Challenge. They have over 150 sites throughout the world where teend and post-teens get help overcoming addictions and destructive habits. These are kids who have gone through some pretty hard core things too early in their lives. But in the community of Teen Challenge, they find freedom and grace. For over 85% of them, it's the beginning of a brand new life. There is no other program in the world which has that sort of success in helping people experience freedom.
It's a pretty powerful reminder of the freedom that Christ has given those who follow him. Not freedom through legalism and ritual. Not freedom that translates into license to do anything without cost. But freedom to be the people that God designed us to be -- to reflect His character.
Thank you, God, for the freedom you offer.
Peace,
Matt
Friday, July 02, 2004
more family...
Linda, Heidi's mother, left for Michigan this morning. Her time here was so helpful to both of us. Her care for Izak allowed me to get back to work and Heidi to continue adjusting to Libby. Let's hear it for Mothers-in-law!!!!
Tonight, my sister, Sarah, her husband, Dave, and my niece, Becca, will be stopping over for a couple nights. They have been traveling from Michigan to DC to Philly to Boston for the past few weeks. They are on their way home now and will stop in Buffalo - no doubt for the highlight of their trip! It will be good to see them and hear about their adventures.
This time of year always makes Heidi and me miss Boston, MA. We loved living out there, so close to reminders of our nation's incredible history. We used to live a stones throw from the rock on which George Whitfield (arguably the most influencial preacher in America) preached many sermons in the 1800s. We would go into the city and walk where our founding fathers walked. Men and women who busted tail every day just to live would sit along the banks of the Ipswich River, which was right out our back door. We miss it.
The Furr family doesn't have any special plans for the holiday. Just lay low, enjoy being together, maybe connect with some friends.
Today, I'm at the office, still catching up on things, but loving it. I'm working on planning out a message schedule of Catalyst Worship Gatherings (the weekly worship time for young adults). This year will be key to solidifying the DNA of the community we are forming.
Yesterday was my formal evaluation by Greg and Bill (senior and associate pastors). They are great guys and I enjoy working with them. Overall, the evaluation went well. the feedback from those I lead was very affirming. So I get to stay another year...
Have a great weekend and Independance Day!
Peace,
M@
Tonight, my sister, Sarah, her husband, Dave, and my niece, Becca, will be stopping over for a couple nights. They have been traveling from Michigan to DC to Philly to Boston for the past few weeks. They are on their way home now and will stop in Buffalo - no doubt for the highlight of their trip! It will be good to see them and hear about their adventures.
This time of year always makes Heidi and me miss Boston, MA. We loved living out there, so close to reminders of our nation's incredible history. We used to live a stones throw from the rock on which George Whitfield (arguably the most influencial preacher in America) preached many sermons in the 1800s. We would go into the city and walk where our founding fathers walked. Men and women who busted tail every day just to live would sit along the banks of the Ipswich River, which was right out our back door. We miss it.
The Furr family doesn't have any special plans for the holiday. Just lay low, enjoy being together, maybe connect with some friends.
Today, I'm at the office, still catching up on things, but loving it. I'm working on planning out a message schedule of Catalyst Worship Gatherings (the weekly worship time for young adults). This year will be key to solidifying the DNA of the community we are forming.
Yesterday was my formal evaluation by Greg and Bill (senior and associate pastors). They are great guys and I enjoy working with them. Overall, the evaluation went well. the feedback from those I lead was very affirming. So I get to stay another year...
Have a great weekend and Independance Day!
Peace,
M@
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
