keeping up...

...barely.

Busy days. Nothing new in that...just busy. Actually, there is something new. I think I've shared how my work computer has been a pain...for the most part of the past year. I've tried everything and consulted with very good computer geeks to try to help. Nothing helps. When I'm in the middle of an email or writing, it will just freeze. Then, when I reboot, it has saved only the stuff from about 5 minutes prior.

I've gotten pretty paranoid about the whole thing. Write a though...push save...write a thought...push save. This has helped me not loose much work. Until Saturday. It froze. I rebooted it. I went to find my work. It only had what I started with about 2 hours earleir...nothing that I had been saving!!! A whole new level of fun...

But someone at Northwest, who heard my cry, came through with a new computer for me. What an incredible gift! not only did they give me a tool for my work, but they gave me peace of mind...ahhh...trust can be restored...a little at a time. I'm still a little leary...waiting for it to freeze. But since Tuesday...it's been great! What a gift...

Relationships are like that aren't they? I didn't intend to go anywhere with it, but I was just struck as I was writing. We cruise along in our relationships, then something freezes. Happens once and we live with it. A few more times, and it's annoying, but we don't toss it out. Over time, we learn to accomodate...if I just save this every 30 seconds, I'll be fine. But then, because we didn't tend to the issue when it was smaller...wham! We loose two hours of work...or 5 years of our life.

Even when we move on to the next relationship (if that one didn't get fixed), we have a hard time trusting. It's a totally different person, but we still find ourselves saving and backing up more than the typical person. It takes so long to learn to trust again.

And then we do. What a gift! Not just the gift of a new friend/wife/husband/fill-in-the-blank...but the gift of trust. What a gift!

Peace,

Matt

you know it was a tough day...

...at home, when you walk in and see the family sitting down for dinner.

And dinner is popcorn.

On plates...

Love you, Babe...

the Challenge...

Dan, one of the guys I work with, just came back from several days at the International House of Prayer (IHOP...yeah, yeah, yeah, I know...). It was a pretty cool experience for him. Someone there mentioned that if a person reads just 10 chapters in the New Testament per day, they will read the whole NT one time each month.

I've never thought about that much. I try to read every day, but just pick books and read a little bit. But to read a whole ten chapters...that seems easy enough. So I'm giving it a whirl. Just think how much more a person will know God after a year of reading the NT every month.

40 chapters a day will do the whole Bible every month...we'll see.

Tonight was daddy night...a good time had by all. Izak is totally into helping at nighttime now. He used to play in the tub for a hour...now he wants to jump right out so that he can help with Levi's bath. He actually is a help...he gets the little tub set up, runs the water (usually a little cold), gets the diaper and jammies ready. And when I need Levi's blankie from the living room, he's down and up in minutes. He loves to help...

Here's to MSU in the finals! But I have them beat by Duke...couldn't be that unrealistic! Go MSU. Unfortunately for my wife, she won't be able to watch Michigan play (snicker, snicker)...

Peace,

Matt

God's Spirit...

At Northwest, we're heading into a conversation series looking at the Spirit of God, often called the Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost. It's been fun for me to do some reading on this subject. I confess that I haven't put much focus on him...I've done more writing and thinking about Jesus or the Father. But the Spirit is just as much God as Jesus and the Father are...not sure why I've "neglected" him, but...

Tomorrow, during our gathering, we're going to unpack Acts 2 a bit. I should probably take a few weeks on this one passage, but we won't. There is so much there. Some pieces that came together for me are:

1. Pentecost was a Jewish festival to remember the giving of the Law to Moses on Mt. Sanai. Interesting...on the Acts 2 Pentecost, God gave out the mark of his New Covenant...the Spirit. And it wasn't to just one person up on a mountain, it was to many people right in the heart of heavily populated city.

2. Pentecost is 50 days after the last Sunday or Passover. Never stopped to ask where the name came from...pente...fifty...seems simple.

3. "Last days" as Peter talks about (quoting Joel, the OT prophet), isn't about the end of time, it's about the event that took place with the coming of the Spirit. The sun to darkness and moon to blood...those are images of a monsterous event...the historical shake-up of power.

Before this time, God revealed himself to only the Jews...they were the religious power. No longer. Now God is for everyone.

Before this time, Satan exercised his power in this world. We see Jesus coming against that power throughout his life on earth. Now, through the power of the Spirit, all Christ-followers have the ability to come against the power of Satan...he no longer rules unopposed. Much to flesh out on this one, but it's huge...

So what? What does this mean for me?

That's the Spirit that's in me! I am a part of God's plan for this world. I have the gift of God in me...through his Spirit. I don't contain all of the God, but I have the fullness of God in me. I am not Him; He resides within me. I have the fullness of God...in me...

Yet I so often choose to live within my own strength. It's my wisdom. It's my strength of character (yeah, right...). It's my intelligence. I lean into these things. And though God made me who I am, I find rich, meaningful, powerful life only when I tap into the power within me. His wisdom. His character. His knowledge. His strength. Then I have life...

I'm excited about this series on the weekends. The Spirit is God's gift to us. I hope to grow in what it means to live in that reality.

Peace,

M@

change of plans...

Usually I roll with changes pretty well. For some reason, I didn't roll with this change too well. I think it means a couple things:

1) I need to get away. At least a couple times a year, I need a road trip. I love to drive and change scenery. It's an important part of my soul care. I find that I get drained when these don't happen.

2) I need time with my wife. We work so hard during the day and the evenings, that it's hard to get enough time to get through the tactical stuff to the heart stuff of relationship. 10 hours on the road with her was going to be one of those times...

but alas...it was not to be. Lib started with the fever and we just couldn't risk her getting worse during the night with a sitter...not fair to have a sitter wake up a doctor or head to the ER if the fever gets too high. So I stayed home with the older two and Heidi went to IN with the youngest. Aunt Lo stayed with them during the day so that I could work a bit. Then we went to Outback together and the kids did great! Now it's quiet, Lo is gone, and the night is mine.

I like my family together...not apart. I guess that's a good thing.

Peace,

Matt

Butterfly Kisses...

A few years ago, a singer wrote a song that became the "daddy's dance" number one hit at weddings across America. It's a tender song about daddy's girl and the butterfly kisses she gave...it recounted all the special moments growing up and now he has to let go of his little girl but he'll always have butterfly kisses...

I've come to the conclusion that this dude was either not home and involved in his children's life or he was hit by a bus and forgot everything except the wedding rehearsal.

Or maybe I'm just different.

My charming daughter was liberally passing out kisses the other night at the dinner table. I was sitting next to her at the time, so I was the beneficiary of the puckered up "hmmmmmm..." as her sweet face came close to mine.

Nothing like the slimey kiss of your daughter with a cold and runny nose. Not butterfly kisses...boogger and snot kisses!

Which is why I get to enjoy my own sneezing and runny nose today...thanks, daughter for your butterfl...scratch that...your booger and snot kisses.

Not sure the song is as sweet...but the kisses sure are! I love 'em!

not much to say...

The lack of posting is an indication of just how busy things are around here these days. When the kids are sick, Heidi and I both kick into survival mode (not equating my situation with hers, who is home all day, just saying that I kick into a similar mindset). It takes about all my energy to work, come home, help, and then crash as the kids drift off to sleep.

They are all feeling better now, so I think the fog is lifting...

We went to Ikea today...yup...all of us! What a trip! Izak loved going up and down the elevators. Libby was doped up on decongestant, and Levi loved the special nursing room! It was a little overwhelming, but fun...

Last night we met with our new small group for the second time. It was a great time together. I'm thankful for this group.

I'm at a loss for words...not much to write other than a quick update.

Peace,

M@

2-minute drill...

- super bowl 40 was a let down. every team that i rooted for this postseason got beat. sorry seahawks...it was my fault. but...i got to spend some time with new friends from northwest until half-time, then we came home, put the shortest furr to bed and enjoyed the second half just us...the best of both worlds!

- kevin and sara had their baby. liam a little football of a kid...i forget how small they are when the first come home from the store. it also means that kevin's been out of the office the past couple weeks. i like it better when he's there...

- got a few kind cards on my year anniversary. northwest people have done such a great job welcoming me and my family. it's a good community to be a part of. they have let us feel the tenderness and hurt of leaving such close friends and have loved us well. thank you...

- heidi still loves working. she's working tonight. that means it was DADDY DAY!!! no fieldtrips today since lib is working on the flu that izak had since wednesday. it's a pretty nasty virus, which means that mommy and kids will probably be at home sunday morning...i miss them when they don't come.

- it's golf season...somewhere in the world...but not in chicago!

- when izak transitioned to a twin bed (out of the crib) we put a child-proofing device on the inside of his door so that he couldn't escape. well, he's getting older, so we decided to take it off. he was very surprised to find me in the hallway when he opened the door...and on the stairs...and in my bathroom...and in levi's room. yup...that daddy guy is magic! but it's quiet now, so i think sleep has overtaken the thrill of escape.

there you go...you're up to speed now. nothing too thrilling these days...work, drive, dinner, diapers, tubbies, bed, deep breath, work, bed...and it's all good.

Peace,

M@

stepping out...

Tonight was a big night for me (and though it probably was for Heidi, too, I'm only speaking on my own behalf here). We launched a new Small Group.

In short, a Small Group is a group of people who commit to share life together with the purpose of moving closer to Jesus. It's a place of safety and transparency and growth. Over time, these relationships often become the core relationships in a person's life.

That's what happened for me in New York. Several young couples set out together to shafe life in a Small Group. At that beginning point, I had a vision of what could be when people take their commitment together seriously. And that group of people became the core friendships of my life. You've read about them many times here...and the pain we've felt in leaving them to move to IL.

Tonight begins another chapter. I can't pretend to know for sure what it's going to look like. But I have high hopes for this group of friends...people who are willing to embark on a risky adventure with us. I'm thankful that they are willing to create a place where I am just Matt (not Pastor Matt). I'm thankful that they are willing to share their life with me. I'm thankful that they will help me become more like Jesus.

It feels a little like a first date after a breakup. It's a bit scary and intimidating. But also dynamic and fresh and alive. I guess that's the good stuff of life.

This new group of friends doesn't diminish the significance of our New York group. It's just another opportunity that God has given me to add to the circle of those who walk closely with me. A gift.

Thanks, guys. The first date is done. And onward we go...

Peace,

M@

frisbee...

This morning I was running a bit late...at least later than I wanted to be. After going to the gym (stop snickering), I got cleaned up and was heading out the door to get a jump on the day.

Thinking that he was going for a ride, Izak put himself into his big, red winter coat and was ready to go with Daddy. Nope...not today, son. But you can go play in the back yard.

That seemed to do the trick. He ran out the back door and grabbed the blue frisbee from the patio. As I hurried around the kitchen, picking up the trail of things that I try to keep out of reach, I saw him standing in the back yard by himself, holding the frisbee.

Frisbee is a two-person game.

So I was a little late getting to the office today...

I'm a pretty task-oriented guy. I like to win. I like to work hard...sometimes too much. Once in a while, it's good to stop and play a little frisbee with a toddler who thinks I'm great...

Love that kid...

Living Generously...

Ever have a hard time buying a gift for that special someone who has everything? Once they have the iPod, there's nothing left to get them! For some different ideas on what it means to live generously, check out the link to the right

www.livinggenerously.com

Peace,

M@

bullet points...

Here are just a few things that I think:

- I think Heidi is having a great time working outside of the house. She was out for a short-shift again today.

- I think I enjoy my time with my kids. I love those little critters...

- I think I stink at picking winners in sports. And I think it stinks that the Pats are out of the post-season. That's football, Mom!

- I think it's been a pretty incredible year since we moved to IL. Tough. But a great year!

- I think...never mind...I really don't.

Good night.

M@

I was wrong...

...my whole understanding of end times theology is incorrect. The end is near. The signs are becoming more and more clear. What turned this corner for me? It wasn't air-tight argumentation from my dispensational friends...

the Pats lost...the end is near...

M@

my struggle with dispensationalism

Warning: it's a long one. If you don't care about theological reflections, then go ahead and skip to the next blog on your list. If you might be interested and have a couple minutes on your hand, then knock yourself out. If you don't know what dispensationalism is and care to read further, check out this post on wikipedia...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dispensationalism. It's unbiased and paints a pretty good picture of this end-times theology. I'm going to reflect a little more from a personal perspective. The beginning of this thread stems from Pat Robertson's comments about Sharon.

Why I'm uncomfortable with dispensational theology:

1) It's relatively new. I think that the Spirit gives insight into God's revelation through Christ and scripture, but I tend to shy away from theological trends that stem from someone getting a special revelation, which is the case here. There is a strong link between John Darby (the "father of modern dispensational theology) and a 15 year old girl named Margaret McDonald, who in 1830 claimed to have a special gift of prophecy and vision of the end times while in special trances. Darby, himself, claimed to have a special revelation of these things as the foundation of his teaching. It's one thing to gain insight into the teachings of scripture; it's a whole different ballgame when one claims to have had visions that supercede scripture. I struggle with that...

2) It's very western-centric in nature. Part of dispensational teaching has to do with a literal 7 years of hell on earth called the great tribulation. Dispensationalisms teaches that the Church will be removed before that time comes. We, in the West, don't do well with pain and suffering. So we like the theology that says we don't have to do it. It works well in conjunction with "health and weath" teaching which says that God's will is always that we are healthy and wealthy. It's a little bit too "Polyanna" for me. What about the people in Africa who are undergoing incredible tribulation for their faith...do they get rescued before it gets bad? How do you tell a woman who watches her children be murdered before she is raped and killed that God will rescue her before she goes through the tribulation? To try and identify a future time in history that is going to get really, really bad in a uniquely western approach to biblical interpretation and has more to do with our personal context than biblical context.

3) I think it plays fast and loose with biblical context. In some places it chooses to be literal. In other places it chooses to be figurative. And in most of those cases, there is little biblical context to support the decision to interpret the passage that way. There are different ways to read differnt genres of biblical literature. But biblical context is king when determining how to go about doing that. Dispensational theology requires that one sets aside basic biblical hermenteutics in order to skew scripture to fit. In a broad sense, it requires using passages of scripture in ways that the authors never intended. For example, Revelation was not written by John to be a code-book of secret future events. It was written to caution "sleeping" churches and to encourage those Christ-followers who were being impaled by beams and used as torches to light Nero's garden at night. The big message of the book is to say, no matter how bad it gets (and it will get bad) Jesus will be victorious. Jesus came into the world the first time as a humble baby. He will return as a victorious king. Hold out hope for salvation.

4) It's like a secret code. The gnostics were a group of people in the first century that believed they had secret information about spirituality. That secret information was rejected by early church fathers within the first couple centuries of church history. Whenever someone claims to have secret or special knowledge about future events, they are immediadely discredited by Jesus himself, who said that no one (not even the Son) knows the details of the end of time. The Bible affirms that there will be an end, but doesn't intend to give details of that end. Anyone who claims to know who the Great Bear and Whore really are...just don't. Most of that teaching is on the same level as the DaVinci Code...it's fiction and makes for sensational stories.

5) My absolute biggest problem with dispensational theology is that it relegates Jesus Christ to "best supporting actor" on the stage of history. Disp. theology teaches that God's ultimate plan for human redemption lies in the physical state of Israel. Disp. theology teaches that Jesus' death and subsequent formation of the Church through the empowering of the Holy Spirit is a "divine paranthesis"...a big oops or Plan B. God's real intent is to save the world through Israel. Frank, in his response to my post on Pat Robertson (see previous post and comments) writes, " Israel IS and always will be the focal point of the Bible. EVERYTHING especially today in this day focuses around Israel!" Sorry, Frank...that is as unbiblical as you can get. Jesus Christ always has been and always will be at the center of God's redemptive plan in human history. The entire Old Testamen points toward him and his work of salvation. And the entire New Testament points toward Christ at work in his followers until the end of time. The central figure in all of biblical history is Jesus Christ.

To buy into dispensation theology, one must believe that God "saves" people in two ways -- through Jesus and through the sacrificial system of Israel. Many dispensational teachers get all lathered up when they begin talking about the priestly garments that are beings crafted and the special animals that are being bred in anticipation of a return to the sacrificial system in Israel. There is a belief by most that salvation can be gained through obedience to the Law, as given to Moses. But the New Testament could not be more clear that reliance on the Law and animal sacrifice for salvation is an abomination to Jesus Christ. Jesus was the only sacrifce that actually does away with out sin. Jesus was the great high priest, according to the NT book of Hebrews...he did his job and then sat down at the right hand of God -- this signifies that his salvific work is completed...done...no more needed.

For the most part, I can accept that there are very learned people who acribe to dispensational theology. One of my "beefs" with this camp is that they tend to discount anyone else's interpretation as valid. I don't want to do that here. However strong my resrvations and my beliefs that dispensational theology, as a whole, undermines the grace and love of Christ, I want to communicate my thoughts in a way that opens the door to conversation as opposed to shutting it down. My writings here are merely a reflection of my thoughts. My understandings have morphed over the years -- I was securly in the dispensational camp at one time on my faith journey. But since that time I have studied and been challenged by brilliant teachers who have helped me formulate a different understanding of God's redemptive plan, biblical interpretation, and the future. I'll reflect on those more in posts to come.

Peace,

M@

Shut up, Pat...

I'd like to respond to Pat Robertson's comments in a few ways...

1) I'm all about the First Amendment. The guy has a right to say whatever he wants to say in any forum he chooses. He happens to have a national forum because of his historical involvement in politics and a tv show that is underwritten from his personal investments and forutes (which means that he can stay on tv even if no one is watching or sending in money). But what I'm frustrated by is that he allows himself to be labeled an evengelical leader. Again, he can say what he wants. He can label himself how he wants (or allow others to label him without correction). But I guess the bottom line is that he doesn't speak for me...for what that's worth. And I wish he would shut up on these things...

2) His comments beg the question about the modern role of Israel in God's work in this world. Robertson comes from a theological bent that claims Israel continues to have a significant, if not central, role in God's work. But I'm not so sure that the Bible is quite that clear.

From an historical perspective, the theological bent, called "dispensationalism", which holds to the centrality of Israel, has only been around for a relatively short time. This theology, which is also the cental thought-process in the Left Behind books series, came about at the Niagra Bible Conference in the mid to late 1800s. It's gotten a lot of traction since then, but it's not like it's been embedded in Christian theology for thousands of years. This isn't to say that we can gain new understandings of scripture...so this point alone doesn't disqualify it as a valid interpretation of scripture...it's just important to realize that this theological bent is not a "given" when it comes to interpretation.

From a biblical perspective, I think a case can be made that though Israel's role in the world was fulfilled when Christ came. Disclaimer: I'm still fleshing this out in my own mind, so these thoughts are dynamic, not concrete.

Israel was chosen by God for the purpose of revealing God to the world. The idea is that He would be their God and they would be His people. He would rule that nation like kings ruled others. The world would know God because of the way Israel lived out their covenant with Him.

When it came to obedience to the Law and the spirit of grace that God desired to express to the world through Israel, they fell short as a nation. But they were supposed to. You see, people are not equipped with the inner motivation or ability to live holy and graceful lives. They weren't. We aren't. They fell short.

God's ultimate design was that He would be perfectly revealed through Israel. And he was. But not through the people, but through the One who came from Israel...Jesus. When one sees Jesus, he sees the Father (according to the Bible). Jesus was a Jew and came from the nation of Israel. Therefore, God's greatest revelation of himself was through the nation of Israel.

After Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and ascention, something significant happened. There was a biblical shift away from the land/nation of Israel toward the "spiritual" Israel. Paul explains in Romans that those who believe are the new Israel. In other words, God is no longer showing himself to the world through a state, but through a world-wide community of Christ-followers. We are his people. He is our God. And because His Spirit dwells within us in grace, power, and love, we are equipped with all we need to reveal God to the world around us.

Therefore, I do not believe that the physical nation of Israel plays a central role in God's plan for the world. I think that the Bible uses the end-times imagery of that nation to speak of the spiritual realities which we have yet to experience. the Bible gives us a hook on which was can hang out hat, so to speak.

If God is to be personified, then I think He has a special place in his heart for Israel because they were a part of his redemptive plan.

This is already longer than I intended, so I'm going to stop there, for now. I'll probably revisit this in the future and continue to flesh it out.

Back to Pat...not only does he misrepresent evangelical Christians, but I think he also misrepresents God. That's my opinion. And I'm thankful for the First Amendment which makes it okay for me to say it!

Peace,

M@

Hello, '06...

Just a spattering of ideas and updates...

- '06 came in like a flood. Libby announced it's arrival with a mighty heave. Yup, the flu came for a visit last weekend. As Heidi fell into bed after cleaning up, I whispered, "Happy New Year..." It seemed funny at the time. Poor kid, Lib's feeling much better now.

- Couple days later, the trend continued with Heidi waking up with a sprint to the bathroom. I have to be honest, I paniced...and was about to call the doctor for a refund (if you don't get that, then don't worry...). As you know, Heidi announced her pregnancies by running to the bathroom. No worries...just the flu...this time. I think I'll always get a little twitch when I hear that sound. Again, she's back up and at it.

- That left me to man the kids that day. Not too bad. Lib was feeling better...at least until we went for a ride in the van. Two blocks from home, she cried and let loose again. What fun!

- The next night, I was about to head to bed and heard that familiar sound coming from Izak's room. Oh, yeah...here he goes. He chucked about every 20 minutes from midnight to 5am. I was on duty and seemed to manage it pretty well. I don't do well with vomit...but had to. He seems to be doing better.

- That leave Levi and me. He's breastfeeding, so is supposed to have special baby powers that keep him healthy. And I...I must just have super daddy powers or something. I feel well...a little tired, but keeping my food, thank you.

- Was rooting for USC. I like Pete Carrol, as a guy and enjoy watching him coach students. He coached the Pats when we lived there and didn't do so well. What a game...and to think...I went to bed...

- Carrie P. Musielak is coming for a visit tomorrow. She's one of our closest Buffalo friends. It will be good to see her and for Heidi to get some special time with her.

- Just got back from the Apple Store where I bought a case for my iPod. I've had to return a few things from online shopping and just got sick of it, so I drove about a half hour to see what I was buying. It worked and I got what I needed. Now I have to return the 8 cases that came in the mail today. Yup...8. Only ordered 1. Only paid for 1. But I got 8. Probably could have kept them or sold them on ebay for a couple hundred bucks. But I called and they know now. I don't have time to sell them. And if I'm going to sell my integrity, it'll be for a bunch more than 8 iPod cases. Not quite sure what the selling price would be...I'd like to think that I don't have one. Integrity is a funny thing. You can stick to it so hard that it actually becomes an idol in itself. To live with integrity in all facets of life without selling out to integrity...hmmm...

Peace,

M@

See Ya' '05...

What a year. Except for 1973 when I passed from womb to world, I don't think a single year has been as filled with change (for me) as this past year. Not much has remained the same...

- new hometown
- new home (including phone number, cell phone number, address, etc.)
- new job with a whole new role in a different kind of local church with a new sort of climate
- my friendships have changed -- they still remain dear, but the proximity and way we relate has changed.
- new friends -- people who are becoming dear friends already
- and a new son.

Yup...it's been a year of change. But there are a few things that haven't changed...

- Heidi and I remain a strong us...I guess it's changed in that we continue to grow, but it's not changed in that it's still a source of strength, joy, and peace
- our cars are the same (Dodge Caravan still is crap and a scrappy '96 Escort)
- God is still being faithful to us. Through the intensity of painful decisions, the sorrow of good-byes, the doubts about tomorrow...through all these things, God has been faithful. He has been faithful to remind me of his love. He has reminded me of his calling to obedience and trust. He has been faithful to supply strength beyond what I thought my limits were. He has been faithful to give wisdom and insight. he has been faithful in providing financially and material things like a nice home where we can entertain and enjoy being family together, cars that keep going (or the money to keep them going), and people who can help me learn to do drywall, plumbing, and home repairs.

Yup...a bunch has changed. But some pretty important things haven't. So to Heidi, my bride of 11+ years...I'm excited to headinto 2006 with you at my side -- it's time for a new phase. And to my Father...thank you for your faithfulness in days gone by...a reminder that you will be faithful every day to come. I trust you and will follow...

Happy New Year.

Peace on the Journey,

M@

it's a go...

at least for now. The company called and said Heidi will work at least a half shift tonight. She might even work a whole one. That means that Daddy Day is going to begin in about 40 minutes as Mommy pulls out of the driveway. Hold on, kids...you're in Daddy's world now!

Peace (mostly),

M@

one down...

...many to go (hopefully). It was my first Christmas as a lead pastor and my first with this community at Northwest. What a nice weekend on many levels...

Northwest -- We worshipped together on Christmas Eve with two services. We weren't quite sure 2 would work - afraid everyone would come to one and the other would feel strange. It worked! Both had a great feel and a good group. Then Sunday morning, we gathered together for a family Christmas celebration, which means that it included food, familiar songs, a short dramatic reading of the birth of Jesus, and a quick message by the lead pastor. It was a good time to celebrate together.

Home -- my folks came from Michigan for the weekend. I think it's the first Christmas that we've celebrated with family on Christmas day. What a nice time. They seemed to have a nice time with the kids -- though they will nap very well when they get home on Tuesday! Levi had a great time hanging out with Grandpa, who has a nice shoulder and a mesmerizing touch...ahh...And Izak and Libby loved showing of.

My wife gave me an amazing gift. She blew the budget and loved me extravagently...it was so special on so many different levels. I was humbled and speechless...thank you, my love.

Family day was a good time, playing with new toys. Izak loves his gift from his Aunt Suzy...who lives 4 hours away and will get hers someday. He calls them his instruments...they are cymbals! He loves to march...aarrgghh....

Libby's best gift was a mirror...she loves to make faces at her friend! It's entertaining for all of us.

Well, that's the weekend in a nutshell. I've got Tuesday off, as well. Heidi is scheduled to work in the evening, but we'll see (so far she's been called off 3 times).

Peace,

M@

Merry Christmas!

No rantings, updates, or insights on this blog.

Just the truest wishes for you to know the peace and joy of Immanuel, God with us this Christmas season.

Peace,

Matt