- Heidi and I are going to the Bills game this Sunday to watch them effectively end their season (rarely does a team with 6 loses make it to the playoffs). We'll be going with Rick and Carrie and should have a great time!
- Election coming soon. Can't wait to vote...what a gift it is. See previous blog for thoughts on the election.
- Izak is great!! Love that kid!
- Libby is rolling and laughing like a nut! Love her to death, too!
- Going on vacation in a couple weeks...will try to take Heidi away over night to celebrate our anniversary (10 years on the 19th of November). The best part will be going to a hotel for lots of great...sleep. I guess that's the difference between the 1 year anniversary with no kids and the 10 year with two!!
- Catalyst worship gathering was great last night. The message was more for me than anyone else there, I think. Check out Luke 9.57-62. Jesus taps into the hearts of men and women and what prevents us from going all out as we follow Him.
- GO SOX!!! Sorry...still living in the moment. The problem is that now Boston Red Sox don't have anything special...they are no longer the team that hasn't won the big game in 86 years...could the Cubs be next year's darling?
Have a great weekend...
M@
Friday, October 29, 2004
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
election reflection...
First of all, I've got to say...GO SOX!!! My dad's not a believer...GO SOX!!!! Though I do appreciate irony enough that I could chuckle (amidst the tears) if they lose...in which case, I will also begin to believe in curses. If they lose now, they should just disband the team, turn in their uniforms, and cease to exist...
Now, I'd like to reflect on the election next Tuesday. I don't know that I've really ever been undecided...but I have been open to changing my mind. I haven't. Here are some bullet-point thoughts...
What I like about Bush:
1) I like that he intends to integrate his faith into his life. I like that he's given his life to Jesus and believes that means something. (stay tuned for the flip side of this point)
2) I like that he does what he says he will do. He doesn't hide agendas. Perhaps I'm a sucker, but he seems to be driven by ideology, which I consider a good thing.
3) I think he's smarter than most people give him credit for. I read an article today that he actually scored higher than Kerry on graduate entrance and iq exams...hmmm.
4) I like that he'll have a life if he loses. I'm sure he'll be disappointed and feel like crap for a few days, but he hasn't lived his life leading up to this moment. He hasn't spend decades positioning himself to be President. He saw an opportunity to lead and took it in Texas and then in the country. When he's not president, he'll drive a truck and clear brush in Texas.
5) Laura is a class act. No matter the situation, she is a classy lady who exercises grace and wisdom in what she does and doesn't say.
6) I like his strong position on defense and getting to the root of terrorism -- I don't think that getting radical islamic fundamentalists to like us is the answer to the problem. And I think his policies are seeing positive fruit in Libya and will work in N. Korea and Iran.
7) I like that he's willing to make difficult decisions based on advise that he trusts and listens to. Once the decision is make, it's made.
What I don't like about Bush:
1) I wish that he would integrate his faith more fully. I think a theology of life extends to criminals (I'm stilly weighing out my take on capital punishment, but I'm beginning to lean against it), the poor, and the oppressed. I think that he believes that his policies will be good for the poor (which some numbers from the CBO seem to indicate -- the lower 20% of income earners actually benefit a great deal under Bush's tax plan), but he doesn't use his platform to call the wealthy to a higher level of generous and strategic giving.
2) I don't like that his policies have put the church in a difficult spot globally. Christ-followers from America will be discredited because Christianity is associated with America.
3) I hate that people are trying to make America a Christian nation. There is not such thing as a Christian nation until Jesus comes back. Christians should influence policy, but not for the intent of creating a climate that favors christianity, but for the good of society. The christian culture that has permeated America has been bad for Church because it's made her lazy and way too trusting of human government and society...different topic for another blog.
What I like about Kerry:
...hmmm...just kidding...there must be something...
1) He married well...again, I joke!
2) He tries to integrate his faith into his concern for the poor and the environment. It's possible that he's only saying that because he knows he needs to compete for the religious vote, but I'll assume he's sincere. Just because he's never said that before the second debate doesn't mean it isn't true.
3) I think he's a good man. I was influenced by his daughters talking about him at the convention.
4) He served his country well in a difficult time. And he made some difficult choices when he returned.
What I don't like about Kerry:
1) He's been a Senator for 20 years and has little to show for it. As a former resident of Mass. he didn't do jack for the state or the country. He's made his name by serving as a prosecutor in the Senate, not as a statesman.
2) He doesn't seem like a man of conviction. I'd rather know his ideology and the values that he will use to guide his decisions. Though not as obvious as Clinton, I think he makes decisions based on the direction of the wind.
3) I don't like that he will prioritize the United Nations. The more that comes out about the organization, the more it becomes clear that here is significant corruption which compromises the security of the US.
4) I don't like that he think of only France and Germany as our alies. I don't understand how he will be greeted at the table by the many countries who are joining us in Iraq. Are we carrying a heavy load? Yes.
5) I wish he was consistent on his perspective on the haves and have-nots. He thinks the rich people should carry the load for the poor (which they should). But he doesn't think that the rich nation should carry the load for poor nations. He's against America carrying the weight of the Iraq war and he's against good jobs leaving the US for other countries. A consistent position would be to create better jobs here so that the jobs that leave can feed men and women in India, South America, and other countries that could use a hand. Isn't that better than just sending them money? I think so.
I have been open to buying Kerry...he just hasn't sold me. I don't think he's a good leader. I am concerned about his lack of clarity on foreign and domestic policy (which means he'll be very swayed by advisors instead of his own convictions). I don't like that he's comfortable using fabricated stories and innuendo to sling mud. He's been the un-Bush candidate, not the pro-Kerry candidate. And for that reason, I will be voting for Bush on Tuesday and encouraging anyone that I can to do the same.
But either way, just make sure you vote...if you don't, keep your beak shut for the next four years because you didn't do what you could have to influence the direction of our country. Voting is a gift. Standing in line, sifting through matierial to education yourself, and speaking your mind are all difficult things...but it's a small price to pay to live in a country where your voice can be heard and your vote counts.
Peace,
Matt
Now, I'd like to reflect on the election next Tuesday. I don't know that I've really ever been undecided...but I have been open to changing my mind. I haven't. Here are some bullet-point thoughts...
What I like about Bush:
1) I like that he intends to integrate his faith into his life. I like that he's given his life to Jesus and believes that means something. (stay tuned for the flip side of this point)
2) I like that he does what he says he will do. He doesn't hide agendas. Perhaps I'm a sucker, but he seems to be driven by ideology, which I consider a good thing.
3) I think he's smarter than most people give him credit for. I read an article today that he actually scored higher than Kerry on graduate entrance and iq exams...hmmm.
4) I like that he'll have a life if he loses. I'm sure he'll be disappointed and feel like crap for a few days, but he hasn't lived his life leading up to this moment. He hasn't spend decades positioning himself to be President. He saw an opportunity to lead and took it in Texas and then in the country. When he's not president, he'll drive a truck and clear brush in Texas.
5) Laura is a class act. No matter the situation, she is a classy lady who exercises grace and wisdom in what she does and doesn't say.
6) I like his strong position on defense and getting to the root of terrorism -- I don't think that getting radical islamic fundamentalists to like us is the answer to the problem. And I think his policies are seeing positive fruit in Libya and will work in N. Korea and Iran.
7) I like that he's willing to make difficult decisions based on advise that he trusts and listens to. Once the decision is make, it's made.
What I don't like about Bush:
1) I wish that he would integrate his faith more fully. I think a theology of life extends to criminals (I'm stilly weighing out my take on capital punishment, but I'm beginning to lean against it), the poor, and the oppressed. I think that he believes that his policies will be good for the poor (which some numbers from the CBO seem to indicate -- the lower 20% of income earners actually benefit a great deal under Bush's tax plan), but he doesn't use his platform to call the wealthy to a higher level of generous and strategic giving.
2) I don't like that his policies have put the church in a difficult spot globally. Christ-followers from America will be discredited because Christianity is associated with America.
3) I hate that people are trying to make America a Christian nation. There is not such thing as a Christian nation until Jesus comes back. Christians should influence policy, but not for the intent of creating a climate that favors christianity, but for the good of society. The christian culture that has permeated America has been bad for Church because it's made her lazy and way too trusting of human government and society...different topic for another blog.
What I like about Kerry:
...hmmm...just kidding...there must be something...
1) He married well...again, I joke!
2) He tries to integrate his faith into his concern for the poor and the environment. It's possible that he's only saying that because he knows he needs to compete for the religious vote, but I'll assume he's sincere. Just because he's never said that before the second debate doesn't mean it isn't true.
3) I think he's a good man. I was influenced by his daughters talking about him at the convention.
4) He served his country well in a difficult time. And he made some difficult choices when he returned.
What I don't like about Kerry:
1) He's been a Senator for 20 years and has little to show for it. As a former resident of Mass. he didn't do jack for the state or the country. He's made his name by serving as a prosecutor in the Senate, not as a statesman.
2) He doesn't seem like a man of conviction. I'd rather know his ideology and the values that he will use to guide his decisions. Though not as obvious as Clinton, I think he makes decisions based on the direction of the wind.
3) I don't like that he will prioritize the United Nations. The more that comes out about the organization, the more it becomes clear that here is significant corruption which compromises the security of the US.
4) I don't like that he think of only France and Germany as our alies. I don't understand how he will be greeted at the table by the many countries who are joining us in Iraq. Are we carrying a heavy load? Yes.
5) I wish he was consistent on his perspective on the haves and have-nots. He thinks the rich people should carry the load for the poor (which they should). But he doesn't think that the rich nation should carry the load for poor nations. He's against America carrying the weight of the Iraq war and he's against good jobs leaving the US for other countries. A consistent position would be to create better jobs here so that the jobs that leave can feed men and women in India, South America, and other countries that could use a hand. Isn't that better than just sending them money? I think so.
I have been open to buying Kerry...he just hasn't sold me. I don't think he's a good leader. I am concerned about his lack of clarity on foreign and domestic policy (which means he'll be very swayed by advisors instead of his own convictions). I don't like that he's comfortable using fabricated stories and innuendo to sling mud. He's been the un-Bush candidate, not the pro-Kerry candidate. And for that reason, I will be voting for Bush on Tuesday and encouraging anyone that I can to do the same.
But either way, just make sure you vote...if you don't, keep your beak shut for the next four years because you didn't do what you could have to influence the direction of our country. Voting is a gift. Standing in line, sifting through matierial to education yourself, and speaking your mind are all difficult things...but it's a small price to pay to live in a country where your voice can be heard and your vote counts.
Peace,
Matt
Sunday, October 24, 2004
Uncle Howie...
I've been an uncle for over a dozen years now. I think I'm a pretty good uncle. I do my best to expell gas when the appropriate finger is pulled...all the things that make an uncle special!
In this regard (and others), I've got a pretty great uncle. While playing a rousing game of "Oh, Sh**", he would do the obligatory side lean and rip...all in good fun!
Being a journalism professor in California, he was also good at correcting poor grammar. And when I was considering photo journalism, he was one of my biggest encouragers (whether he knew it or not).
This morning, I'm not sure why, I was thinking about Uncle Howie. I can't help but smile whenever I do. But this morning, I was struck by something different.
Here I am in Western New York...I am on staff at a great church...I am serving God and following Him with all that I have. I am doing my best to encourage others on their spiritual journey, as well. In a very real way, I'm doing this because of Uncle Howie.
Howie was the first person in my mother's family to give his heart to Jesus. Because of his influence, my mother gave her heart to Christ. And she is the one who told me about Jesus and guided me through the process of giving my life to Him.
I have a family legacy of faith because of the step of faith of one young man...Uncle Howie.
I don't know that I've ever said thank you for that. Knowing that you read this now and then, Howie...let me thank you for the legacy that you began many years ago. Because of you, my family loves Jesus and there are people who are living by faith in Him whom you will never know this side of eternity.
Peace,
Matt
In this regard (and others), I've got a pretty great uncle. While playing a rousing game of "Oh, Sh**", he would do the obligatory side lean and rip...all in good fun!
Being a journalism professor in California, he was also good at correcting poor grammar. And when I was considering photo journalism, he was one of my biggest encouragers (whether he knew it or not).
This morning, I'm not sure why, I was thinking about Uncle Howie. I can't help but smile whenever I do. But this morning, I was struck by something different.
Here I am in Western New York...I am on staff at a great church...I am serving God and following Him with all that I have. I am doing my best to encourage others on their spiritual journey, as well. In a very real way, I'm doing this because of Uncle Howie.
Howie was the first person in my mother's family to give his heart to Jesus. Because of his influence, my mother gave her heart to Christ. And she is the one who told me about Jesus and guided me through the process of giving my life to Him.
I have a family legacy of faith because of the step of faith of one young man...Uncle Howie.
I don't know that I've ever said thank you for that. Knowing that you read this now and then, Howie...let me thank you for the legacy that you began many years ago. Because of you, my family loves Jesus and there are people who are living by faith in Him whom you will never know this side of eternity.
Peace,
Matt
Friday, October 22, 2004
big weekend...
It's going to be a big weekend, beginning today. Along with two weddings that I'm doing tomorrow, Clive and Ruth Calver, from World Relief will be at the church speaking in a variety of settings. Since I'm the outreach guy, that means I'm going to be hummin'!
Tonight, we're having a dinner at which Clive and Ruth will guide key leaders in the church through a process of understanding what decisions need to be made in order to grow in effectiveness in global outreach. I'm excited by the response...most of the people I invited, including staff and board, will be there. With most of the decision-makers sitting around the same table, it should be a great time!
Saturday is filled with men's and women's events, seminars, and then service in the evening. Sunday morning holds 3 worship gatherings and then a lunch session in which Clive will talk through leadership principles that he's picked up from his observations of the Church worldwide. I've been able to invite a few people that I'm investing in, which is exciting (though Laura is dissing me!).
Overall, it's a pretty crazy time...for a variety of reasons. I'm not overwhelmed, but it's that sense of impending something...like standing on the Grand Haven pier during a storm...you know that a huge wave is going to come and kick your butt; it's both exciting and scary at the same time!
Oh, something from last night's Catalyst worship gathering that was very cool. During the music set, a guy came over and said to me, "This may sound stupid, but do you have something weighing heavily on your heart tonight?" I did. There are some pretty key decisions that I'm working through and so much going on. I'm not burdened by any of it...I'm just thinking through a lot and looking for God's direction. So he prayed for me briefly and then we went on with the evening.
This was cool for me in a couple ways. One, I was excited about Keith's sensitivity to God's lead in his life. As strange as he felt, he did was God asked him to do. Two, God spoke through Keith into my life. He reminded me that he is intimately involved with the process and He cared enough to stir someone else to pray. It was God saying, "Don't forget, I've got you covered." It brought a great sense of peace to me.
That's it for now...probably for the weekend.
Peace,
M@
Tonight, we're having a dinner at which Clive and Ruth will guide key leaders in the church through a process of understanding what decisions need to be made in order to grow in effectiveness in global outreach. I'm excited by the response...most of the people I invited, including staff and board, will be there. With most of the decision-makers sitting around the same table, it should be a great time!
Saturday is filled with men's and women's events, seminars, and then service in the evening. Sunday morning holds 3 worship gatherings and then a lunch session in which Clive will talk through leadership principles that he's picked up from his observations of the Church worldwide. I've been able to invite a few people that I'm investing in, which is exciting (though Laura is dissing me!).
Overall, it's a pretty crazy time...for a variety of reasons. I'm not overwhelmed, but it's that sense of impending something...like standing on the Grand Haven pier during a storm...you know that a huge wave is going to come and kick your butt; it's both exciting and scary at the same time!
Oh, something from last night's Catalyst worship gathering that was very cool. During the music set, a guy came over and said to me, "This may sound stupid, but do you have something weighing heavily on your heart tonight?" I did. There are some pretty key decisions that I'm working through and so much going on. I'm not burdened by any of it...I'm just thinking through a lot and looking for God's direction. So he prayed for me briefly and then we went on with the evening.
This was cool for me in a couple ways. One, I was excited about Keith's sensitivity to God's lead in his life. As strange as he felt, he did was God asked him to do. Two, God spoke through Keith into my life. He reminded me that he is intimately involved with the process and He cared enough to stir someone else to pray. It was God saying, "Don't forget, I've got you covered." It brought a great sense of peace to me.
That's it for now...probably for the weekend.
Peace,
M@
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
different than I thought...
I've read many books and listened to many tapes/cds on the "emerging church" -- the up-and-coming, young adult, postmodern thing that will characterize the culture in the near future. I get excited about the implications for the church. In many ways, the changing culture will force the church to return to it's roots in the first century.
A quick example...for the past couple hundred years, our country and the culture has underwritten the christian church. The clearest examples of that is that churches are tax exempt. Our culture is shifting to the point that it will no longer assume good will for the church. What would happen if the church had to start paying taxes? I'm sitting in an office on a campus worth about 25 million...annually, we'd pay a truckload of taxed...people might give less because they wouldn't get tax credit...many churches would have to see their land and buildings. But...don't forget that the church isn't a building or property. It would force us to consider that the church has more to do with the community of Christ-followers than with what has become often little more than a social club that tips its hat to Jesus.
Anyway...I love thinking through implications of cultural relevance and how worship gatherings might change shape in the emerging culture. And as I've gotten ivolved in Catalyst (a worshipping community of young adults in Hamburg, NY), I've learned something huge...
...this community looks much different than I thought it would. I was looking for cool and edgy and bold. What I'm getting is socially awkward people who aren't very cool or edgy or bold. They've been kicked by life, laughed at by peers, and even turned away by church people. They walk through the door and force me to consider what's more important -- my image of the emerging church or the reality of community that I'm looking at.
I don't know why things are turning out like this. But I do know that these folks present me with an opportunity to be more like Jesus. The conversations can be strange and disconnected; I can't always follow the logic. They may get excited about things that I couldn't care less about. But they are all people that Jesus loves. That makes them my people. That makes them my brothers and sisters.
And so God is shaping and re-shaping this image of community...
Peace,
M@
A quick example...for the past couple hundred years, our country and the culture has underwritten the christian church. The clearest examples of that is that churches are tax exempt. Our culture is shifting to the point that it will no longer assume good will for the church. What would happen if the church had to start paying taxes? I'm sitting in an office on a campus worth about 25 million...annually, we'd pay a truckload of taxed...people might give less because they wouldn't get tax credit...many churches would have to see their land and buildings. But...don't forget that the church isn't a building or property. It would force us to consider that the church has more to do with the community of Christ-followers than with what has become often little more than a social club that tips its hat to Jesus.
Anyway...I love thinking through implications of cultural relevance and how worship gatherings might change shape in the emerging culture. And as I've gotten ivolved in Catalyst (a worshipping community of young adults in Hamburg, NY), I've learned something huge...
...this community looks much different than I thought it would. I was looking for cool and edgy and bold. What I'm getting is socially awkward people who aren't very cool or edgy or bold. They've been kicked by life, laughed at by peers, and even turned away by church people. They walk through the door and force me to consider what's more important -- my image of the emerging church or the reality of community that I'm looking at.
I don't know why things are turning out like this. But I do know that these folks present me with an opportunity to be more like Jesus. The conversations can be strange and disconnected; I can't always follow the logic. They may get excited about things that I couldn't care less about. But they are all people that Jesus loves. That makes them my people. That makes them my brothers and sisters.
And so God is shaping and re-shaping this image of community...
Peace,
M@
Sunday, October 17, 2004
2 years ago...
2 years ago today, I was processing the fact that I am a daddy with a son. Izak's second birthday came and went yesterday. I suppose that this will be the last birthday where we won't have to pony up!
What a great kid I have (two actually, but this blog is focussed on Izak). He loves to sing (we often hear him an hour after bedtime, singing at the top of his lungs. It's hillarious that he's at that stage where he doesn't realize you can hear him all over the house.
Going back to my earlier comment about not ponying up for his birthday. I really do hope to teach him a proper perspective on material things. A key phrase that he's going to get sick of hearing as he grows up is "delayed gratification." Think about that one. We don't tend to be too much into that concept...even as adults. I sure know that I'm not into it. I like results and I prefer them now.
I think that's why God puts me in situations where I can't control the outcome and I have to allow the process to work in and through me. But it's in that process that I learn more about Him and me.
Speaking of delayed gratification...the Red Sox stink!! I love 'em (as much as I love any baseball team) and they are just getting it handed to them by the Yanks. I don't know which is worse, the Sox losing or the Yanks winning...it's like the Sox have forgotten how to play ball-smashing baseball...
But the Bills won today. They played the Dolphins...one of them had to win...though I wouldn't have been surprised by a tie where neither actually gets the win...that's the kind of season we're having.
Time to roll in for the night.
Peace,
M@
What a great kid I have (two actually, but this blog is focussed on Izak). He loves to sing (we often hear him an hour after bedtime, singing at the top of his lungs. It's hillarious that he's at that stage where he doesn't realize you can hear him all over the house.
Going back to my earlier comment about not ponying up for his birthday. I really do hope to teach him a proper perspective on material things. A key phrase that he's going to get sick of hearing as he grows up is "delayed gratification." Think about that one. We don't tend to be too much into that concept...even as adults. I sure know that I'm not into it. I like results and I prefer them now.
I think that's why God puts me in situations where I can't control the outcome and I have to allow the process to work in and through me. But it's in that process that I learn more about Him and me.
Speaking of delayed gratification...the Red Sox stink!! I love 'em (as much as I love any baseball team) and they are just getting it handed to them by the Yanks. I don't know which is worse, the Sox losing or the Yanks winning...it's like the Sox have forgotten how to play ball-smashing baseball...
But the Bills won today. They played the Dolphins...one of them had to win...though I wouldn't have been surprised by a tie where neither actually gets the win...that's the kind of season we're having.
Time to roll in for the night.
Peace,
M@
Friday, October 15, 2004
final round?
Spent the morning with Rick, probably my closest friend. We have a special golf course in Warren, PA that we go to a few times each season. Today was probably our last round there of the year. The leaves were spectacular...probably peak color. The clouds were thick and even opened up on us a couple times during the round. But it doesn't matter. I was golfing on a Friday with my friend and we were the only ones on the course...that's a great day even if it does rain! That's what rain gear is for...
The rest of the day I got to spend with my family. It's been a crazy week...catching up from the trip last weekend and a bunch of stuff coming down the pike at church. But today we got to catch up. Heidi and I have just been sitting in the living room for the past 3 hours talking and sharing together -- that's the good stuff!
Not too many new thoughts to share at this point...
time for bed.
Peace,
M@
The rest of the day I got to spend with my family. It's been a crazy week...catching up from the trip last weekend and a bunch of stuff coming down the pike at church. But today we got to catch up. Heidi and I have just been sitting in the living room for the past 3 hours talking and sharing together -- that's the good stuff!
Not too many new thoughts to share at this point...
time for bed.
Peace,
M@
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
...on a jet plane...
Heidi and I just got home from flying to Chicago with the kids. We visited some friends out there and thought flying might better than driving 10 hours...it worked great!
Both Izak and Libby were awesome and did their daddy proud. Izak looked like a little muppet witting in his seat with seatbelt locked! It was hilarious!
As well as it went, we are all exhausted. Time to recover and settle.
Met with out small group tonight...I love that gang. They are a treasure from God.
Back to the office tomorrow to jump back into an incredible ministry year.
Shout out to Kevin, Sara, and Lukas for letting us crach your pad for the weekend...no matter how much you like someone, having them in your home has a price -- you were awesome! We're working on helmets for the next visit..!
So much to say...so little brain left today.
Peace,
M@
Both Izak and Libby were awesome and did their daddy proud. Izak looked like a little muppet witting in his seat with seatbelt locked! It was hilarious!
As well as it went, we are all exhausted. Time to recover and settle.
Met with out small group tonight...I love that gang. They are a treasure from God.
Back to the office tomorrow to jump back into an incredible ministry year.
Shout out to Kevin, Sara, and Lukas for letting us crach your pad for the weekend...no matter how much you like someone, having them in your home has a price -- you were awesome! We're working on helmets for the next visit..!
So much to say...so little brain left today.
Peace,
M@
Thursday, October 07, 2004
We Won!
"Tell them what they won, Bob..."
"You win...double ear infections!!!" And the crowd goes wild!
Yup, last night, beginning at about 2am, it started...Izak hollered, puked, and cried. I got to hold the vomit-covered toddler in the living room (nothing like a snuggle with vomit in your hair to tell you that you're a daddy...) while Heidi cleaned up the mess in the crib. It was a beautiful thing...
Just as Izak got back to bed, Libby chimed in. She hit full throttle about 3 and didn't even think about coming back into orbit until about 5. We passed her back and forth, taking turned trying to comfort her.
Finally, we got a couple hours of sleep...sort of. Upon waking, we had two charming, laughing, smiling kids waiting for us. They didn't even have a vague recollection of the hell we went through during the night...one of the perks of being a kid, right?
So we all headed off to the doctor's office. We showed up without an appointment, which is a cardinal sin in the medical field. But we were pretty determined to be seen asap...which we were. Nothing like a crying baby and a running toddler to convince the office manager to talk the nurse practitioner into seeing the Furr's sooner, rather than later...
Yup...ear infections for everyone. Here's your special candy to help you feel better...there goes 50 bucks to the doctor and pharmacy and away we go. By tomorrow, it'll be back to running, laughing, and staying up late singing in the crib.
through this, i saw God at work in my life. I hate being awakened in the middle of the night...really, I hate it. I'm not fully convinced that God resides within me between the hours of 2 and 6am. But He was there last night. I was awake and in good humor, ready to serve Heidi. There was no way that I could pretend to not hear what was going on, but it was beyond that. God gave me a real servant's heart for my family! That's a win in my book!
Thanks, God. I'm sure glad you're not sleeping at 2am...
Peace,
M@
"You win...double ear infections!!!" And the crowd goes wild!
Yup, last night, beginning at about 2am, it started...Izak hollered, puked, and cried. I got to hold the vomit-covered toddler in the living room (nothing like a snuggle with vomit in your hair to tell you that you're a daddy...) while Heidi cleaned up the mess in the crib. It was a beautiful thing...
Just as Izak got back to bed, Libby chimed in. She hit full throttle about 3 and didn't even think about coming back into orbit until about 5. We passed her back and forth, taking turned trying to comfort her.
Finally, we got a couple hours of sleep...sort of. Upon waking, we had two charming, laughing, smiling kids waiting for us. They didn't even have a vague recollection of the hell we went through during the night...one of the perks of being a kid, right?
So we all headed off to the doctor's office. We showed up without an appointment, which is a cardinal sin in the medical field. But we were pretty determined to be seen asap...which we were. Nothing like a crying baby and a running toddler to convince the office manager to talk the nurse practitioner into seeing the Furr's sooner, rather than later...
Yup...ear infections for everyone. Here's your special candy to help you feel better...there goes 50 bucks to the doctor and pharmacy and away we go. By tomorrow, it'll be back to running, laughing, and staying up late singing in the crib.
through this, i saw God at work in my life. I hate being awakened in the middle of the night...really, I hate it. I'm not fully convinced that God resides within me between the hours of 2 and 6am. But He was there last night. I was awake and in good humor, ready to serve Heidi. There was no way that I could pretend to not hear what was going on, but it was beyond that. God gave me a real servant's heart for my family! That's a win in my book!
Thanks, God. I'm sure glad you're not sleeping at 2am...
Peace,
M@
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
freaking out...
Last night was not a good night for Izak. We had a very nice family day together -- first time in several weeks that we didn't have plans and Heidi and I were both together with the kids. It was great...I love my family! In the evening, we went to the local mall so that Libby could get some pictures taken -- they came out GREAT!! While we were waiting for the pictures to be printed, we just tooled around the mall.
That seemed innocent enough. But then Izak wanted to walk instead of riding in the stroller. Again, that seemed easy enough. He had a great time and he even did well holding my hand instead of running crazy.
It happened slowly and was barely perceivable. But he started to get overwhelmed. Outside of the stroller, his world got very big. There was the very exciting bird room at the pet store. There was the ramp in the food court. Then there were all the people and lights and sounds...it was all great. But a sense of insecurity and fear began to creep up within him...this was all fun, but so much bigger than me!
By the time we left, he was sobbing...nearly vomiting, he was so scared and 'at the end' of himself. It was very sad to watch. The only thing that helped him was when I carried him in my arms and whispered in his ears that I love him...then he would quiet down.
The world is a pretty big place. There are so many wonderful things to see, touch, and hear. But the further I get from my Father's side...the more I run fast and try to enjoy it all, the more I'm overwhelmed.
I don't fall into a heap on the floor sobbing when I'm overwhelmed. Instead, I holler at the dog and get impatient with my kids. I argue instead of discuss. I put unreasonable expectations on other people.
In those moments, what I need is the quiet voice of the Father quietly reminding me of his love...
If you've found yourself a little bit frazzled at the big world around you, quiet yourself and listen...
Peace,
M@
That seemed innocent enough. But then Izak wanted to walk instead of riding in the stroller. Again, that seemed easy enough. He had a great time and he even did well holding my hand instead of running crazy.
It happened slowly and was barely perceivable. But he started to get overwhelmed. Outside of the stroller, his world got very big. There was the very exciting bird room at the pet store. There was the ramp in the food court. Then there were all the people and lights and sounds...it was all great. But a sense of insecurity and fear began to creep up within him...this was all fun, but so much bigger than me!
By the time we left, he was sobbing...nearly vomiting, he was so scared and 'at the end' of himself. It was very sad to watch. The only thing that helped him was when I carried him in my arms and whispered in his ears that I love him...then he would quiet down.
The world is a pretty big place. There are so many wonderful things to see, touch, and hear. But the further I get from my Father's side...the more I run fast and try to enjoy it all, the more I'm overwhelmed.
I don't fall into a heap on the floor sobbing when I'm overwhelmed. Instead, I holler at the dog and get impatient with my kids. I argue instead of discuss. I put unreasonable expectations on other people.
In those moments, what I need is the quiet voice of the Father quietly reminding me of his love...
If you've found yourself a little bit frazzled at the big world around you, quiet yourself and listen...
Peace,
M@
Friday, October 01, 2004
post-debate...
I joined about 50 million Americans in watching the two presidential candidates address issues in each other's company last night. Though pundits and talk-show hosts were sort of down on the format, I thought it actually worked well. Americans don't like relational tension, so having a format where they would not directly interact, prevented what many would call a "nasty" exchange.
Both men feel strongly about their perspectives, that's for sure.
I think that Bush didn't "perform" as well as I would have hoped. I think he said many good things and was clear on his distinctions. But his presence on the stage was not as smooth as I thought Kerry's was.
I am still not much clearer on where Kerry stands and what his plans are. Many of the things the he was concrete about are already being done. He just hates that Bush is doing them.
He was still trying to play both sides of issues...for example...he chastised Bush for not creating a strong coallition for the war in Iraq; then he was critical because the US isn't doing bi-lateral talks with N. Korea, but relying on China and Russia to talk NK into giving up their nuclear ambitions. I wish someone would have come out and said that the only allies that "count" are France and Germany. They are traditional allies (sort of). But Kerry doesn't see the other nations that are involved.
Kerry thinks that the wealthiest Americans should carry the heaviest tax load (which I agree with), but that doesn't translate to his foreign policy. America is the only "super-power" in the world. We are the wealthiest nation and the strongest miliatry (for now), yet kerry seems to think that other nations ought to be carrying the same load for justice in the world. I think we do have a responsibility to stand up and act, alone if needed.
I hope that Karen Hughes kicked Bush's butt for his poor presence. He was Bush, but he did seem frustrated and, at the end, tired. Great closing statement, but the last half hour, he kept drinking from an empty glass and looking distracted while Kerry talked.
The incumbant will always be on the defense in a debate like this. This election is all about Bush and very little about Kerry. Last night, Bush didn't defend as well as I thought he could.
As I've written before, I begin my political ideas leaning right. So far Kerry hasn't given me anything to bring me over to his side and Bush, overall, solidifies my opinion. Is he perfect? No.
That's enough for a Friday morning. Next Tuesday is the vice-presidential debate. Edwards will, I'm sure, be great in this setting. Cheney will be solid. I predict a draw.
On other topics:
Catalyst worship gathering went well last night. The worship set flowed nicely. I feel good about the message...talked about the woman who poured her expensive perfume on Jesus' feet while he had dinner at a pharisee's house. It was a great picture of the two different responses to God -- legalistic religion vs. love and worship out of gratefulness. It was a good challenge for me as I studied and prepared.
All three of my house-mates are sick! Izak got the cold first, shared it with Heidi and now Libby. Buggers galore! So far, I'm hanging tight...so far...
Gott go...I have this huge boulder right on my heels...it's called "next week."
Peace,
M@
Both men feel strongly about their perspectives, that's for sure.
I think that Bush didn't "perform" as well as I would have hoped. I think he said many good things and was clear on his distinctions. But his presence on the stage was not as smooth as I thought Kerry's was.
I am still not much clearer on where Kerry stands and what his plans are. Many of the things the he was concrete about are already being done. He just hates that Bush is doing them.
He was still trying to play both sides of issues...for example...he chastised Bush for not creating a strong coallition for the war in Iraq; then he was critical because the US isn't doing bi-lateral talks with N. Korea, but relying on China and Russia to talk NK into giving up their nuclear ambitions. I wish someone would have come out and said that the only allies that "count" are France and Germany. They are traditional allies (sort of). But Kerry doesn't see the other nations that are involved.
Kerry thinks that the wealthiest Americans should carry the heaviest tax load (which I agree with), but that doesn't translate to his foreign policy. America is the only "super-power" in the world. We are the wealthiest nation and the strongest miliatry (for now), yet kerry seems to think that other nations ought to be carrying the same load for justice in the world. I think we do have a responsibility to stand up and act, alone if needed.
I hope that Karen Hughes kicked Bush's butt for his poor presence. He was Bush, but he did seem frustrated and, at the end, tired. Great closing statement, but the last half hour, he kept drinking from an empty glass and looking distracted while Kerry talked.
The incumbant will always be on the defense in a debate like this. This election is all about Bush and very little about Kerry. Last night, Bush didn't defend as well as I thought he could.
As I've written before, I begin my political ideas leaning right. So far Kerry hasn't given me anything to bring me over to his side and Bush, overall, solidifies my opinion. Is he perfect? No.
That's enough for a Friday morning. Next Tuesday is the vice-presidential debate. Edwards will, I'm sure, be great in this setting. Cheney will be solid. I predict a draw.
On other topics:
Catalyst worship gathering went well last night. The worship set flowed nicely. I feel good about the message...talked about the woman who poured her expensive perfume on Jesus' feet while he had dinner at a pharisee's house. It was a great picture of the two different responses to God -- legalistic religion vs. love and worship out of gratefulness. It was a good challenge for me as I studied and prepared.
All three of my house-mates are sick! Izak got the cold first, shared it with Heidi and now Libby. Buggers galore! So far, I'm hanging tight...so far...
Gott go...I have this huge boulder right on my heels...it's called "next week."
Peace,
M@
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