Showcase the Amen

Balmy December

2011-12-17T19:34:00.001-06:00

Spring

2011-04-19T07:59:00.000-05:00

Transitioning

2011-04-01T09:35:00.000-05:00

Today is an unexpected day off, so I'm taking the opportunity to post. I have a certain amount of banked days after being so busy in the winter. Long weekends are a nice way to use those banked days. Andrea and I have been enjoying our time out here at camp. It's been 2 years since we moved here and it will be a little over 2 months until we get something to call a home. There is much anticipation for this moment when we will have a house that is actually meant to be our house.

Also we have been enjoying fellowship with a different community of believers for the last several months.We now attend church in Portage, which is a 40 minute drive from our house. The travel is no big deal, but we do have to limit how much we get involved because of it. Also having a little boy that goes to sleep at 7 limits our evening activities.

So, to clarify to myself and to any other readers I will give some of the reasons as to why we changed churches. There was no one our age in the church we previously attended that we could relate to or consider of like minded. We had not been challenged to grow or been convicted since attending there.
Also we seemed to be under the umbrella of my family church, which makes things difficult. As a preacher once said, " family relationships are fading if they are not in Christ, true fellowship is found in our relation with brothers and sisters in Christ". I'm not saying that my family is not believers, but I will say that when we are together that fact is taken for granted.

Actually I won't peg that on my family, that is the case for too many christians. Sure we are christians but that is not a fact to accept and then ignore. It's not a prerequisite for friendship that is addressed and then considered trivial in comparison to day to day small talk. I do long for the day when Christ comes back and he will be the center of our attention. Yes, I do believe he is coming back like it says in Luke 21:27-28,And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

Maybe the Church we were attending was not providing for us because our own hearts were far from trying to accept that place. Were we hyper cynical and pushing the our expectations too far, I will say no. The move was necessary,and we have been ministered to by the community we now attend. It is good to go to a place where people challenge us personally. This Christian life cannot be done solo. Meeting together to study God's word and to intercede for the sinful world around us are irreplaceable things. I'm so thankful that we have the freedom to meet in this country without fear of persecution. Although some persecution might do us good, like a refinery, burning off the impurities.

Well I'm going to close this one off, it's getting kind of rambly. I haven't written in a long while.

Prayer

2010-11-07T21:58:00.000-06:00

Recently I found myself at a loss for words before the Lord. I wish I could say it was because I was in awe of our creator and his mercy for a sinner like me, but the cause was quite the opposite. The reason for my stagnant state was a cold heart and an indifference towards my saviour. I had lost the passion, Jesus was not my satisfaction. Instead I had allowed myself to beieve that my pattern, my well oiled regiment of getting up early and reading His word was enough. It was like a correspondent that consistently wrote me letters but I never cared to return any. To me the word seemed dead and unresponsive.

I give all credit to to the Spirit working in to bring me back to my knees before Jesus, but i will let you know where he led me on the way. Good friends of mine referred me to a Lou Sutera prayer seminar at their church. I was hungry for more knowledge and was able to make it to two of the three meetings. Through these meeting I was deeply convicted on my attitude and failure to bring things to my Savior. Since this initial motivation the joy that can only be found in the Lord is slowly returning to me. There are many other factors and influences that have helped me along but I will not go into them at this time.

Simply put: To believe is to pray
Without prayer I deny that God exists by refusing to acknowledge him. When I say that I am a christian yet do not communicate that first of all to Christ it is hypocrisy. How can I lead a household without the Lord? How can I be a missionary to children and the community if I deny Christ's work in my own heart?

⁵ You come to the help of those who gladly do right,
   who remember your ways.
But when we continued to sin against them,
   you were angry.
   How then can we be saved?
⁶ All of us have become like one who is unclean,
   and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags;
we all shrivel up like a leaf,
   and like the wind our sins sweep us away.
⁷ No one calls on your name
   or strives to lay hold of you;
for you have hidden your face from us
   and have given us over to^[a] our sins. Isaiah 64:5-7

They did not call on the Lord and were given over to their sins...

Call on Jesus, bring everything before him.

Returning

2010-11-01T21:55:00.000-05:00

I'll admit I've been absent from posting in the last little while. It is not without good reason that I have remained in this state of silence. I try to make this blog a place where the way I can communicate the truth's of God's word, warnings of this deceptive world and perhaps a few verbal and literal pictures of the beautiful world we live in. There now that I have stated the purpose of this space it is more clearly communicated to you and as well to myself. As it is too late in the evening for me to formulate proper thoughts here are some pictures.

Lecrae-Background Ft. C-Lite Video

2010-10-09T09:18:00.000-05:00

This is a pretty weak rebirth into blogging but at least its something. Check out the video, listen to the words let them pierce you. I may or may not resemble C-lite you can decide for yourself. Enjoy.

you can keep all that junk to yourself

2010-06-22T21:19:00.000-05:00

Alright I wouldn't recommend you actually keep junk to yourself, I would recommend you get rid of it and please don't give it to any other poor person. If you haven't read my dear wife's blog you will find that our family is currently a resounding gong(with love). It has come to our attention, or rather we have been convicted by God on our use and view of our one precious life. I like to call it, "inhaling properly". We live on air, we expect and need to breathe in clean air or we will die. As Christians we need to make sure the air we breathe is clean and frequent enough to actually sustain. Watching an awful movie or indulging in that one television series is like putting your mouth to a tailpipe only once and a while. The negative effects of a little bit of sin is much more devastating than you would expect. Through prolonged exhaust inhalation your lungs and lips become calloused, so does the discernment and desires of your heart. Instead of recoiling and sputtering the filth becomes attractive and even delicious. The majority of the world is in this state, greenhouse gases are better named Sin.

Thanks be to God for saving us from this plight, for giving us eyes to see and ears to hear. For those who are chosen this cancer is cured and they are renewed. Stop ignoring this sin in your life come to Christ and find life in him! Examine what you're allowing into yourself, and pray for the strength to do it with God.

The Cross

2010-02-20T10:12:00.001-06:00

There’s something you gotta see, journey with me

It’s approximately 30 A.D.

In the land of Israel- the city of Jerusalem

But on the outside there’s screams and loud cries

Through faith, this scene can be seen without eyes

The mean shout lies and seem to sound wise

As we inch through the crowd, we need to be cautious

A Roman execution, men on three crosses

But all the focus is on the one in the center

The gate closes behind you- no one can enter

The sight you behold is so odd, you’re stunned

The man hanging on the cross is God the Son

12 noon, it’s pitch-black because the sunshine’s lacking

Your minds can’t fathom this divine transaction

As slowly the sound becomes mostly drowned

You realize that you’re standing on holy ground

Bridge

So forever will I tell

In three hours, Christ suffered more than any sinner ever will in hell (4x)

Chorus

It’s where we see Your holiness- at the cross

We see that You’re controlling this- at the cross

We see how You feel about sin- at the cross

Your unfathomable love for men- at the cross

It’s where we see Your sovereignty- at the cross

We see our idolatry- at the cross

We know that there’s a judgment day- from the cross

May we never take our eyes away- from the cross

Verse 2

We’re now in the realm of the sublime and profound

With God at the helm it’s about to go down

The Father’s wrath precise will blast and slice

The priceless Master Christ as a sacrifice

Willingly, He’s under the curse

To be treated as if the Son was the worst scum of the earth

The scene is the craziest

Jesus being treated as if He is the shadiest atheist

How is it the Messiah is in the fiery pit

As if He was a wicked liar with twisted desires?

The One who’s sinless and just

Punished as if He was promiscuous and mischievous with vicious lust

The source of all godly pleasure

Tormented as if He was a foul investor or child molestor

How could He be bruised like He was a goodie two-shoes

who doesn’t think that she needs the good news?

He’s perfect in love and wisdom

But He’s suffering as if He constructed the corrupt justice system

We should mourn at the backdrop

Jesus torn like He’s on the corner with crack rock with porn on His laptop

What is this, kid? His gifts are infinite

But He’s hit with licks for religious hypocrites

He’s the Light, but being treated like

He’s the seedy type who likes to beat His wife

He’s treated like a rapist, treated like a slanderer

Treated like a racist or maybe a philanderer

Jesus being penalized like He had sin inside

Filled with inner pride while committing genocide

I could write for a billion years and still can’t name

All of the sins placed on the Lamb slain

But know this: the main thing the cross demonstrated

The glory and the holiness of God vindicated

The Cross (3 hours) by Shai LInne

Discernment

2010-01-26T07:39:00.000-06:00

I have been reminded lately that the call to discern in today's Christianity is more pressing than ever. A lot of books are being promoted in churches that dethrone God and put man in driver seat. I'll admit that I cannot discern as well as I would like to, so I must research and trust others with what God has laid on their heart. Here is an article about the latest thing that's creeping into churches-- http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/newsletter101607.htm#LETTER.BLOCK8

This website is also good http://www.challies.com

I may or may not write more on this later, but PLEASE! Research the books and materials coming into your church and your own hands!

Make War Full Song (Typography)

2009-12-27T10:06:00.001-06:00

If I can't see Christ I'd rather not see at all

2009-12-14T20:41:00.000-06:00

Well, the title was going to be the entirety of this post, but I've been convinced otherwise.

I Timothy 2:5: For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.

To see Christ is an odd thing to explain, it can't be properly articulated through poems or descriptive words. Everything a christian sees ought to be through christ. I know that this is not the case for most, myself included. The best way I can describe, "seeing Christ" would be like looking through a lens that allows you not only to see but to fully realize the extent of God's grace and mercy shown through his Son. Jesus took God's holy wrath upon himself so that we could live, and even better, live in eternity at peace with a holy God despite our Sin. I know I haven't posted in a while, but this pretty much sums up from then until this point. It's been a constant struggle keeping my lens clear. It's like going into a warm humid room after being outside in -24 weather while wearing glasses. The problem with that analogy is that I would be saying Jesus is flawed, which he isn't, it's my eyes that are... full of logs.

So many new things!

2009-02-15T08:15:00.001-06:00

Hello to all readers! It's been to long and I'm feeling disconnected. I will fill everybody in. I am now married to Andrea, the most amazing woman ever! We are living in Winnipeg for now but it doesn't feel very permanent. I am currently in the process of applying for an assistant director position at Valley View Bible Camp. The emotions going into it are mixed, I feel unworthy to even be considered but yet still led to apply. I can't say much more on the subject because I don't know yet. If everyone could pray for Andrea and I, it would be great!

2008-08-12T21:45:00.000-05:00

So I'm lazy at posting, I'll admit it. Not too much has been going on around here. Work has been slow, but picked up for this week, how long lived it will be I'm not sure.

I think God's been teaching me to be content where I'm at, which translates to resting in the promise and provision that he has given. More specifically, I've been quite restless about remaining where I'm working. There were other job opportunities that seemed very attractive for the moment, but would not provide the same quality of learning.

I'm getting kind of a feeling like David got when he numbered his, except not nearly as severe.

2008-06-27T23:47:00.000-05:00

I can't say that I have a lot of inspiration going into this post. I'm looking to buy a house which is exciting and intimidating at the same time. The real concerns I am having is moving into a sketchy area of town, but I don't expect any sympathy from some of the readers. The concern is not for me but for my future wife. It's not easy to live in a fallen world where the evil desires of man go unchecked, where sin is only atoned for by one man. Don't let the world fool you. Control is in God's hand and it always will be.

2008-06-12T08:12:00.000-05:00

I have to say that I have been really overwhelmed by the grace of God these past weeks. We've started marriage counseling and it is so exciting to see how God has worked in Andrea's and my life throughout our relationship. Persevering through a mostly long distance relationship bears a lot of witness to God in our relationship. I had a conversation with someone who was starting a long distance relationship. I told her I'd gone 6 months without seeing Andrea, someone quickly added, "but you have God on your side". This struck me in a couple different ways. Unbelievers do watch our walks closely, they can see the new life that we live. That's why it is so important practice what you preach. One of the major things that damages our credibility is hypocrisy within Christianity. I have heard people say so many times, " she/he is a Christian and they do it why can't you". The subject doesn't matter, but the conflicting views projected on the unbeliever do.

26"So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Matthew 10:26-27

Make your life transparent so that the unbelieving may see the power of God in your life, but also so that when you sin your brother or sister may see and help you up.

Walk with Authority

2008-05-31T10:28:00.000-05:00

I have spent the last few days with the Porter family in Regina. It is always encouraging and refreshing to stay with them. This morning there was a police bust of some kind across the street. I think I counted about 12 officers in total. This lead me to some of the notions of my past.

Obviously I wasn't going to go out and chase down a gang member, but if I had to I wouldn't be afraid. It's like when I was young, I carried myself with the thought that it didn't matter if I got hurt or died, God had my back. Where did I lose my way? There are numerous times when I know I had protection of another kind.

So my challenge to you and to myself is to in faith put yourself in a situation at least out of your comfort zone. Tell someone that Jesus loves them, do a random act of kindness. If you want to be used by God you have to give him something to work with. You'll be amazed how the smallest thing is huge when God's in it.

Engaged!

2008-05-19T21:00:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the slowness of posting this momentous occasion. I am engaged to married to Andrea Porter! The date is set at January 31st 2009.

I want to direct all the focus of this event and the glory towards God. If you haven't noticed yet that's the whole reason for this blog. It has definitely been a long distance relationship, with only about 6 of the 20 months together. I'd like to thank everybody who has supported us and I hope that we will have your continuing support.

Servants

2008-05-06T16:44:00.000-05:00

And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15Therefore,
"they are before the throne of God
and serve him day and night in his temple;
and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them.
16Never again will they hunger;
never again will they thirst.
The sun will not beat upon them,
nor any scorching heat.
17For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd;
he will lead them to springs of living water.
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." Revelation 7: 15-17

At first glance this text seemed overbearing to me. We're going to serve him one day in his temple? Does that seem a little bit oppressive to anyone else?

Then I thought about it a little bit more. We are slaves to something, most likely to this world and the sin in it. To serve God is not just one option among a list of things to serve. To serve God is to break away from the list of worldly options.

Now think about being in the Sanctuary of God, dwell on the comfort that can only come from being in the presence of God. Imagine how wonderful this life would be if all we had to worry about is serving God without the distractions of a job, money or school. God promises this to us in the end, when it's all said and done, all we'll need to do is serve. I love Him.

2008-04-24T12:55:00.000-05:00

I am tired of timidity, I'm tired of caring what others see. Just imagine if you walked talked and lived with the authority of Christ! Yet we do not, for some reason we cannot. Has the old nature not been put off? Am I not a new creation in Christ Jesus? I 'm positive that I am. I cannot ever deny the saving grace of Jesus, I will never turn to unbelief. Still without passion I live! This lament does not bring resolution, but only more longing for change. So I give you this text:

50I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— 52in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. 54When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory."[g]
55"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"[h] 56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:50-57

Now sit back and read that passage again. Flesh and blood have no inheritance in the Kingdom! The fingers with which I type will be rendered useless. The feet you walk on will be gone. Yet the text says we will all be changed, there's no specification between believers and unbelievers. All will be judged. All should be warned. So what are we holding back for? The death that is brought on by sin has been erased. Jesus took our sins, he forgave them! If we are in him, and he in us then our imperishable spirit is assured a place in eternity. So fear nobody but his majesty!

Now that you can see the end and what it holds, where do you stand? Do not fear the one who destroys the body but fear the one who destroys the soul. Can you walk in the authority of Christ?

Drunk

2008-04-18T09:05:00.000-05:00

Recently I heard a sermon on this text, 2Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. 1 Peter 2

The speaker ended the sermon by telling me to get drunk off of the spiritual milk. Like a newborn baby craves milk, that's how we are supposed to crave the things of God. Then to get drunk off of spiritual things would to have them in excess. This became even more real to me yesterday as I was waiting for the bus. A drunk women came and sat beside me and proceeded to talk to me and I talked back. She then sat beside me on the bus and talked to me until she got off the bus. She was drunk, she was talking. If we are drunk off the spiritual milk we will be talking.

"Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks". Is your hearts desire something other than the cup that Jesus drank? Does your speech edify Christ? I'll pray that it does.

Summer

2008-04-17T10:58:00.000-05:00

I had been planning to cook at camp again this summer, I'd even asked for a leave of absence. This did not work out though, so I will be in Winnipeg. It wasn't the way I had worked things out in my head. I had already expected to go to camp because I thought that was where God wanted me. Then again what do I know about the will of God.

At first I took it pretty hard, but I soon found peace in knowing it was above me. Knowing that the things of this life are passing away, to sulk on this would prove my faith shallow. I don't know the plans he holds for me, but I trust and obey.

From one sheep to another

2008-04-05T21:45:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow sheep! We are all sheep following one Chief Shepard.

2Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 1 Peter 5:2-3

We are all sheep, whether we believe or we do not. Some sheep are lost and need to be brought back into the fold. Be examples to the flock because you never know who's watching your every step. Yet do not lord yourself over those entrusted to you. In other words do not see yourself as higher than anyone but see them as equal. And do it all with the hope of eternal glory. It's just a good verse, check it out.

Resolution

2008-03-31T13:07:00.000-05:00

In Self seeking blindness I couldn't see the impact I was having on other people. I went to work and talked to my Sous Chef today. He assured me that I was doing well in my position and that he would be disappointed to see me leave before I was finished. God showed me that I was having an impact on the people around me. That was reassurance enough to know that this is where God wants me. It's all about Him and not about me.

Step out on the Water

2008-03-31T09:25:00.000-05:00

I've been having some doubts lately about continuing in the cooking industry. It's probably been bothering me for about 2 months now. Originally, when I started schooling my mind was not where it should have been. When I decided to go to college my original intention was to run away from God. Only by God's grace did was I returned into his fellowship.

While at school I decided that I would use my cooking to serve the Lord. I found school interesting and I liked learning about cooking, but that's changed now in this apprenticeship. I have had no desire to continue learning, the food industry seems hollow to me, only glorifying the temporary things of this world. So basically it feels like I should be doing something else.

Studying the bible takes up more of my time than studying food so logically I made the decision that bible college would be the next step for me. I'm just putting this out there I have made no decisions yet. Is it ignorant to step out to nothing on what feels like faith? Don't most people change career paths a few times? If you ask me how I got into cooking I can't honestly tell you. Please pray for me and give me some of your insight, especially those who have life experience.

Cast it all

2008-03-13T23:36:00.000-05:00

You know what it's like, your job is stressing you out or God's vision for you isn't clear. I know I've been feeling it. The truth of the matter is that christ came and died to take those burdens.

1 Peter 5:6-8 (New International Version)

6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

When you find humility you'll find anxiety that will comes with it. Humility is essential to any successful christian walk. In your anxiety is where your character is tested, it's tested for patience and for perseverance. It will take patience to wait on God's direction but it will take perseverance to remain steadfast in the Lord. It means looking to God in his Word, in your prayers and in fasting.

In your time of anxiety it's important to keep alert because in your selfish anguish doubt will come and the devil is always waiting to confirm your doubts. Hold on he's strong.

Written

2008-03-12T11:25:00.000-05:00

My ways are not your ways Lord
My thought are not your thoughts
The life I live is not my own, but when

My vision is blurred at best
My motives are shot
Laid dead like bodies that rot

When can I see again?
When will the light shine through the cloud
Soon, I hope

Joy is hope in the Lord
Joy comes in the morning
It's been a long night

Can I tell them about you Lord?

2008-03-07T21:35:00.000-06:00

Too often I find myself imagining situations where I get enough courage to approach people I don't know. It's the strangest thing, because as brave as I am in my mind I'm not that outgoing most of the time.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”- Psalm 139:23-24

I can't tell if my anxious thoughts are pleasing to God or not, is it pride? It feels like I hold back because I don't want to do anything to hurt the name of Jesus. Yet by keeping silent I ultimately do damage to the anyone that was looking for God and I deprive them of that.

2008-03-02T15:43:00.000-06:00

Why do you believe what you believe?

This is a question every Christian needs to ask themselves at least once. If you've grown up in a Christian home and the only thing you've got to assure your salvation is that you asked Jesus into your heart when you were 5, I'm worried for your soul. I know for myself that when I realized this it was the turning point in my faith. I'm very thankful for the environment that I grew up in, but it's that very environment that brought me a false sense of security. I thought that since I had prayed the prayer and I went to church that I was home free.

The point when I realized that Jesus was so much more than fire insurance was the point where my life gained direction, meaning and no ending.

So why choose Jesus? I looked into the other religions and thankfully I could see the deception created by each of them. I knew that there was a God and I had to find Him. It took stumbling into God's word expecting nothing and receiving everything to make me see that there was a God that loved me. I can't properly explain what it takes to come to belief in Christ, because it is such an unimaginable experience. I knew that my sin stank and I needed to be clean. So here is are some things God offers that the world doesn't:
-hope of something after life
-Reconciliation of sins through Jesus
-Love in an unfailing form
-Joy
-A Father that guides and keeps us
-Peace
-A spirit to Guide us
-the Perfect Father
-satisfaction that nothing on earth can offer

There are so many more than this, please add to the list!

I believe because Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old testament and the sacrificial Lamb for mankind. I believe because God's power is evident in his book and in the people which he works through now. Most of all I believe because once the blindness of my heart was gone I could see Jesus and I could see the light that is Faith and I have never wanted to turn away from Him. I think I'll be given more answers as I continue to seek God in my life.

2008-02-24T21:58:00.001-06:00

I guess since i have no new insights, I will post some of the shiny things I have gotten recently.

I now pass trudy the tercel to David.

Also feel free to give name suggestions for the new auto vehicular object.

Poor

2008-02-10T09:48:00.000-06:00

"Blessed are the poor in spirit" Matthew 5:3

What does it mean to be poor in spirit? What does it mean to be poor? It means to be in poverty or have low quality.

Jesus teaches blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. So as I see it, when you are poor in money you need and want more money. To compare the spirit to money is not the greatest but it will work. To get more money you have to work at a job, put in more hours and more effort. To gain more spirit is exactly the same! When Jesus says this he knows that when someone is poor they are always trying to escape their poverty. Do you think your spirit is really satisfied? Our human spirit will never be satisfied with the worldly things, it takes new birth, it takes the coming of the holy spirit into you.

Look at the Israelites they lived most of their lives unsatisfied and always looking to other religions. They didn't have the holy spirit to guide them.

Don't deprive yourself the riches God has laid up for us in him. Feed your spirit, pray fast and read. So blessed are the poor in spirit because they continually hunger for what only God can give.

Bombardment

2008-02-02T23:09:00.000-06:00

Well since my last post I have got an extremely clear answer. I was told through books, through two different sermons and by way of the bible. The one thing that rang true in all these sources was to love. I'd forgotten that I'm supposed to be like Jesus and not just proclaim him. I have to actually live a life in which I imitate Christ as best I can.

I have to be willing to drop my own agenda to show love to someone. I don't think Jesus would have said "Sorry I can't heal you now because I have to get to my bible study".

"Love the lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it, Love your neighbor as yourself" Matthew 22:38-39

Why are we so afraid?

2008-01-31T09:32:00.000-06:00

Okay, so we profess ourselves to be Christians but we won't preach in the streets, it's even hard to say the name of Jesus in the workplace. I'm guilty of all these thing; I keep to myself on the bus, and I won't tell a co-worker about Jesus unless they ask. What is the problem with me? With a lot of Christians?

"For we were not given a spirit of timidity; but a spirit of power, of love and self discipline" 2 timothy 1:7

I feel like a runner that got stuck in the block. My eyes want to go but my feet won't carry me. I don't know why I won't step out of my comfort zone. I have nothing to fear , not even death can hold me. Is this something that everyone experiences? I know I'm not old in the faith but neither were the disciples.

Drive-by Hardcore Dancing

2008-01-29T11:30:00.001-06:00

Oh so funny

A time for what?

2008-01-29T09:08:00.000-06:00

It seems like January has an effect on me which causes me to rethink what my motives are for where I am and what they are for where I'm going. Thankfully I found the answer in the bible and not within my own sinful motives. Micah 6:1-8

1 Listen to what the LORD says:
"Stand up, plead your case before the mountains;
let the hills hear what you have to say.

2 Hear, O mountains, the LORD's accusation;
listen, you everlasting foundations of the earth.
For the LORD has a case against his people;
he is lodging a charge against Israel.

3 "My people, what have I done to you?
How have I burdened you? Answer me.

4 I brought you up out of Egypt
and redeemed you from the land of slavery.
I sent Moses to lead you,
also Aaron and Miriam.

5 My people, remember
what Balak king of Moab counseled
and what Balaam son of Beor answered.
Remember your journey from Shittim to Gilgal,
that you may know the righteous acts of the LORD."

6 With what shall I come before the LORD
and bow down before the exalted God?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?

7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousand rivers of oil?
Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?

8 He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.

It's not like we are still offering rams, but it doesn't mean we aren't trying to appease our own conscience with works. God has done everything for us! He put the breathe in our lungs, the food in our stomaches. The best thing we can do before the Lord is humble ourselves in everything we do. If there is no pride in us then there is room for God. Put off yourself and seek him alone.

Fanatic

2008-01-19T14:46:00.000-06:00

25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. Ezekiel 36:25

This verse should define what God has done in your life. Am I being cleansed? Is my past dirtier than my present? One way of telling if your walk with God is progressing is to look back on it and check if you are being cleansed. As we move forward in our walk we should be putting off more things that detract from our relationship with God. Anything that is binding you to the earth should be out under the microscope, even sports or tv easily become idols. I want to be a fanatic. To be separated from anything that would lump me in with the world.

Yes we believe Jesus saves us from hell, but do we believe he changes everything else about our life?

" In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your father in heaven" Matthew 5:16

Set yourself apart.

The Thesis

2008-01-14T15:43:00.000-06:00

My life is not my own. My life is a gift from God, who has shown me grace and redeemed me from sin. With this in mind I want to make my life a prayer to God. The means with which I will be used I cannot fathom. In the meantime I must be emptied of all self to make room for God to work. So I'm left as vessel for God and nothing less than that will do.

Meditate on this

2008-01-10T09:37:00.000-06:00

Psalm 19
For the director of music. A psalm of David.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.

3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard. [a]

4 Their voice [b] goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,

5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.

6 It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.

7 The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.

8 The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.

9 The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.

10 They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.

11 By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.

12 Who can discern his errors?
Forgive my hidden faults.

13 Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then will I be blameless,
innocent of great transgression.

14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Thank God with your time instead of for it.

2008-01-06T20:54:00.001-06:00

Well it was nice to have two weeks off for Christmas and spend time with Andrea and my siblings. Towards the end of the time I could not get rid of a weight that had sat upon my shoulders. I knew exactly what I'd done, I greedily accepted my free time without using it to benefit my relationship with God. I could feel the disconnect but yet my hardened heart made me avoid the regenerate solace that I needed.

Today there was a special day of prayer at church for the missionaries in our conference. As usual seeing all the reports on the missionaries made me rethink my position in life. I feel like I've hit an early mid-life crisis, or my comprehension of one anyway.

I've told myself that my training time would also be a time of biblical training as well as culinary. I've got jitters now. I want God to rock my life in a new direction, I want to hear the call and drop everything. I'm not to sure why I'm telling all of you this, but feel free to give it to me straight.

Sin separation

2007-12-19T17:47:00.000-06:00

It is impossible for a camel to fit through the eye of a needle; so too is it impossible for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. It is not that the rich man was rich, it is that he held on to his riches before he would follow Christ.

2007-12-11T21:45:00.000-06:00

It's almost Christmas if you haven't noticed yet. Work is steady because this is the season of eating. Half of my day consisted of standing behind a carving station cutting roast beef today. I'm excited to get 5-8 days off work and maybe go to Regina.

Lately I have felt the need to search for a deeper knowledge of Jesus. I've come to the scriptural conclusion that merely asking him into your heart is not enough, and that eternal life only comes from belief and repentance. Repentance meaning, "to think differently after", so true a true Christian must undergo change, not just say a prayer. I want to warn all those who do not know that they're road leads to destruction. Jesus spoke against the law because it had become the way in which Jews thought they guaranteed they're admission into paradise. He did not speak against the law so that we might ignore it. The biblical law was made to direct us to God. Look at the 13 letters to the churches, ignorance of the law led to disaster.

Now I would like to put forth how I heard the Gospel preached today by Paul Washer. There is no hope for mankind but Jesus. Jesus bore all our sin. God turned his face away from Jesus because Jesus had became sin upon the cross, and the all holy God cannot look upon sin. God crushed his son because he had become sin. Now because of Jesus' death we are able to commune with a holy God, despite our being made of sin.

So now what do you think God thinks of our sin when he killed his own son because he became sin?

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son. John 3:16

The calm that quiets everything

2007-12-04T19:11:00.000-06:00

I was lucky enough to have the day off today, it was a good day for regeneration. Once I finally escaped the house, the fresh falling snow hung in the air and crunched under foot like never before. This is the first real snow fall I've experienced in the City; it is incredible how much the snow quiets the traffic and even the thoughts. I've been revisiting why I am doing what I am. Am I doing it for God or even with him? I think the way I was hired into the Fairmont shows God at work, but I am not feeling it right now. Anyways, that is what is occupying my mind.

On the heels of Christmas

2007-11-26T10:37:00.000-06:00

That sneaky holiday has done it again; it's crept up on me and now I need to do some shopping. I'm really not that worried yet. Things like work and... well work keeps me pretty busy right now.

One thing that's been bothering me is the bus; it's full of people yet no one ever talks and there is so many creeps. I could go on about the weirdos and creeps I see, but it would accomplish nothing. I know that I am called to show love to everyone, but it's pretty hard to think loving thoughts when the middle aged pervert in front me gawks at every girl who gets on. What do I do in that situation? Zoning out into ipod land doesn't erase the obvious problems around me.

Congratulations to the Roughriders on their recent win. That is all.

Keeping it G rated

2007-11-18T23:09:00.000-06:00

San Antonio Dating

2007-11-13T19:31:00.000-06:00

I've undergone one day of Fairmont orientation, which was surprisingly interesting. Although I cannot go into details due to conflict of interest. I listened to a very good sermon today that I think everyone should hear at least once. http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=52906154239 I could try to explain it but I would only lessen it's impact.

I'm not really sure what to do with my time, I can only sit here sipping eggnog for so long. Here's what I did yesterday though. Also Andrea, Michael, David and I created a few short stop motion clips which I will post when I figure out how to run them as film.

Cooking school did me well apparently

2007-11-08T22:29:00.000-06:00

Get a Cash Advance

Tagged

2007-11-06T23:07:00.000-06:00

I've been tagged by my friend, Michelle.

Here are the rules:

The rules are simple… Each player lists 8 facts/habits about themselves. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning before those facts/habits are listed. At the end of the post, the player then tags 8 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

Habit, defined:
A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behavior that is acquired through frequent repetition. An established disposition of the mind or character. Customary manner or practice: a person of ascetic habits. An addiction.

Fact, defined:
Something that actually exists; reality; truth. Something known to exist or to have happened.

1. I enjoy cleaning my ears.
2. Coffee in the morning.
3. I think that I have some sort of natural talent at everything even when I don't.
4. I need sharp knives.
5. I don't like the word emo.
6. I don't know why I'm a cook but I like it.
7. I enjoy using public transit.
8. My face is surgically altered.

I tag: Sam, Nate, David, Annemarie, Merribeth, max, and eric.

Praying For You

2007-11-02T13:21:00.001-05:00

Great Video

2007-11-01T09:35:00.000-05:00

I am in Regina and it is incredible. The time here I think is meant also to restore my spirit, because with the drive and the time alone while Andrea is working will be times of restoration. Today I am feeling the need for prayer. Prayer not of requests but of a contemplation and listening time with God. Martin Luther said it best, " I have so many demands today that I cannot possibly cope without at least 3 hours of prayer". Think of it this way, we eat everyday because we need food right. So if God is the bread of life then why do we only spend like 15 minutes a day with him. So like the literal food we eat we too need to spend time with God on a regular basis throughout the day. Spend time listening to God today.

Almost Late

2007-10-29T16:58:00.000-05:00

Okay so I had to work at 7am this morning, not that big of a deal right? So I went to bed at 10:30 and set my alarm for 5:30 because the bus comes at 6:19. Some time during the night I didn't sleep well and I shut of my alarm when it sounded and I did not get up. So then I woke up at 6:39 and say," oh crap!!" I made to work dressed and on time some how. I am very thankful for having a car for these accidental situations. I am quite enjoying my job, I never thought that I would think nothing of cooking 600 three course meals a day but it's happened. To all the people who don't read Andrea's Blog I am going to Regina for a couple of days to be with my sweetheart.

Working at the Fairmont

2007-10-19T22:35:00.000-05:00

It's been a week since I started my job at the Fairmont hotel. It has been a tiring yet very exciting and fun experience so far. I've made things I've never made before, I've seen Kanye West and I've spent a day with an odd rabbi. I am very impressed with everyone that I'm working with, everyone realizes that this is my first kitchen job and they take the time to teach me everything that I need to know. Today my chef and I even had a discussion about faith. I've been taking the bus to work, it has been very relaxing. Everyday I'll listen to a sermon on the way to work, I recommend this practice to anyone who has a 30 minute or longer commute to work. The Rabbi was at work because the Velvet Glove is putting on a kosher night for all the practicing Jews who cannot eat out and remain kosher. Anyways, this was the first time I'd met a rabbi and I did not expect him to joke around so much or sing along to akon on his laptop. Yes I think I like it here.

2007-10-15T19:17:00.000-05:00

So not to much has happened around here. I started my job and am really enjoying it. I work with some really good guys who have been doing this job for a long time already. I learned how to take the bus today, it really isn't hard so don't laugh. The view from our apartment is exceptionally good today. I am currently making bread, it smells so good. No new insights other than those. Unless you have a suggestion for a college and career group that I should join.

What Do I Do Now?

2007-10-09T17:08:00.000-05:00

So I'm moved in and i have till friday to do nothing. Blah. I' pretty pleased with the appartement aside from the distance I have to go for work. The challenge lies within idle time, maybe I should cherish it because it may be short lived. Or do I fill my time with useless activities like video games. I think that these times are when your sincerity towards God actually comes through. Joyn our comes from worshipping God but often that is the thing we put off as a last resort, or until we realize our sluggard and begin repenting. These are the times when we should build on our relationship with God, solving our repressed doubts and setting goals for the future.

Floating

2007-10-03T20:00:00.000-05:00

It's fall out and it's almost thanksgiving. I'm actually looking forward to family gatherings because I haven't been to one in so long. This is a long drawn out time of transition, I've been filling my time well enough with jobs I've neglected and have been recruited for. I finally put my bike back together and got it riding nicely. Farm work does not stop after harvest, so I'm doing that as well. Andrea is living in Regina so I am a little bit mopey. I just started a new book called " The Christian and The Pharisee", it is a heavy read but I'm excited. It's a rabbi and a reverend discussing the road to heaven via a long correspondence of letters. yup

2007-09-20T20:18:00.000-05:00

I'm back! (Well I'm excited anyway) So I spent the Summer at Valley View Bible Camp as the Head cook. It was a lot of fun and work, but still great. Right now I'm driving potato truck for the harvest. I'll be moving to Winnipeg in two weeks to live with Stephen and Jordan. I have been accepted as an apprentice for the Fairmont hotel. So that's what's happening in the physical aspect of things.

I've noticed a good trend occurring that emphasizes Men as spiritual for other men. I'm not taking a shot at women leaders, but they just can't have the same connection with men. What I'm seeing is a need for more mentors, for elders to take on youth and share their wisdom. It happens far too often that Christian youth grow up without being taught discipline and a need for holiness. So... Agree or disagree or say nothing that's my observation. Maybe I just need a mentor.

2007-06-17T14:33:00.000-05:00

Well it would seem that I locked myself out of my room and for some reason the RA is not around. Things are winding down in Dawson Creek, I'm starting to say goodbye to people that I'll probably never see again. It's not like other final farewells though, I don't think I've spent this much time with friends and then just left for good. Sam is opposed to me leaving, I think he wants at least one blood relative around. Travis says he is following me to Winnipeg in the fall, I'll believe it when I see it. This tuesday also marks my final bible study with the group here, twice they thought other times were my last. I'm in a very rminiscent mood and probably will be until I leave. Meh

2007-06-13T17:16:00.000-05:00

I apolagize for the lack of posts lately. It's just too nice outside and well, all my posts would lean towards my anxiousness to go home. I leave on friday the 22nd at approx. 5 o'clock. My estimated arrival would be early morning on the 24th. I faced a little persecution today, one of my classmates said that christians were like soldiers in how we sing and sit in rows. She also said we look mindless sitting in our pews. I'll admit call to worship readings are a little wierd. I almost tore a strip off of her but I just stayed calm. It worries me that the only response I could think of was to tear her down. I guess I need to work on responding in love. What would your response be? She is a difficult person to talk to without bringing up religion. Oh well back to studying.

Opinions Wanted

2007-06-06T16:45:00.001-05:00

Alright, has christianity become too secular? Does our worship, culture and lifestyle set us apart from the world? Let me elaborate, when a preacher says something like, " maybe potifers wife was getting any" do we recoil or do we take accept the statement without so much as a flinch. For example; christian hip hop is getting revolutionary, there is no way it would be mistaken for the secular crunk. The lyrics are deep, hopeful and accurate to the bible. The bible tells us to be separated from the world. We are called to be dead to the world. I think personal discression is nescessary if what we do causes another believer to stumble it is better to avoid that thing. I realize the braodness of this topic, it goes all the way from alcohol consumption to contempary worship. Please share an experince or opinion on the matter.

Five Course Meal

2007-05-24T11:41:00.000-05:00

First- Chipotle shrimp in a fresh salsa

Second- Avocado stuffed chicken salad with a basil aioli and tomato vinaigrette

Third(mine)- Mango Pineapple Granite on an ice ball

Fourth- Pork with a Port wine sauce and asparagus spears in a potato jacket with brie inside

Fifth- Chocolate mousse cone, chocolate rum ganache, and strawberries and whipped cream in a sugar basket

Go Down Death

2007-05-22T18:39:00.001-05:00

I really like this poem and Wintley Phips makes it even better.

Free Running the DC

2007-05-20T10:45:00.001-05:00

That's My King

2007-05-16T11:01:00.001-05:00

2007-05-13T23:18:00.000-05:00

The lighthouse, it guides ships in fog, darkness and turbulent waters. Without the light house ships wreck themselves upon a rocky shore or get lost in a billowing sea. I like the analogy of seeing Jesus as our lighthouse, maybe it's because a previous pastor liked as well I don't know. Just think about it you are a ship lost in the fog, you can keep afloat if your not moving and that's about it, you don't know which direction to go or what dangers lurk in the darkness. If you follow the light of the lighthouse(Jesus) you are led to safety, dry ground and a sense of certainty. I find comfort in the certainty of Christ, he is my dry ground, I no longer float around relying on "fate" or "luck". Does your life lack direction? The lighthouse allows just enough light for you to see directly in front of you. Can you see the beam through the darkness?

More Pictures

2007-05-06T14:44:00.000-05:00

More Scenery from DC

2007-05-06T00:16:00.000-05:00

Beautiful Dawson Creek

2007-05-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

2007-05-03T21:23:00.000-05:00

"Prayin' For You"

Father God, I'm prayin' to you for somebody, who knows you Lord but just hasn't, hasn't been seein' you in the right view lately, Hear me out...

Father, I'm prayin' for a friend he and I are pretty close, and out of all my friends for this one I'm concerned the most. He say he readin' daily but he ain't really learnin'. He been in church but say that he ain't moved by any sermon. His face weak, he ain't prayed in a week, he wake up and just weep with his face in the sink Lord, you gotta help my man, I'm prayin' for him daily, he ain't sinned but it just seem as if he goin' crazy. He say he feelin' trapped, can't even head up the mall coz every lady's half-dressed temptin' him to lust and fall. He keep the TV off, videos just make him feel that he ain't really nothin' without money, girls and shiny wheels. The other day he told me that he felt less a man coz he ain't have a five-year plan or a piece of land and man it's crazy coz his family think so much of him, plus he got a godly wife who always showin' love for him but he's strugglin', even though he talk to me, I tell him what to do but he don't listen when he oughta' be. I'm scared for him coz there's people that look up to him, he got some younger siblings who been changed by what he's done for them but is it done for him, Lord don't let it be, if he don't wanna talk to you then Father hear from me, is it done for him, Lord don't let it be, if he don't wanna talk to you then Father hear from me...

Yeah, I'm prayin' for you, yeah, I'm prayin' for you
Yeah, I'm prayin' for you, yeah, yeah, I'm prayin' for you...

God, his condition is worsen since we were last conversed and I'm with him now and he ain't doin' well and this I'm certain. He say he tryna' trust you, doesn't wanna disgust you but he was in the mist of sinners and did not discuss you and just today his anxiety's got the best of him, he knows Christ but for hours refuse to rest in Him, he's not the best of men but Lord I know he really loves you and I can't understand why lately he's not thinkin' of you. People trust this dude, you could crush this dude, Father he needs more of you I pray you touch this dude, what can I say to him? I'm determined to pray for him Father empty and brake him I pray you'll just have your way with him, coz there's a change in him and the effects are strong, I pray you open up his heart before the next song and when he gets home, I pray he'll open up the sixty-six book love letter you wrote and soak it up coz he ain't hearin' You and he ain't feelin' me and God I know it's killin' You because it's killin' me and matter of fact there's somethin' else he's concealin' see, the person that I've been prayin' about is really me...

Yeah, I'm prayin' for you, yeah, I'm prayin' for you
Yeah, I'm prayin' for you, yeah, yeah, I'm prayin' for you...

Lecrae

The Great Comission

2007-04-28T12:40:00.000-05:00

When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Is this an option? NO! All the authority of God is given to us if we just follow him. I can't even grasp the concept of having all the authority of Heaven and Earth. Are we ashamed of the gospel, I hope not.
Romans 1:16 "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile".
What is holding you back? Is it your pride? Reputation? Take your faith to the streets, create disciples.I Think of all the people close to me, if they died and didn't hear of Jesus, then I blame myself. The world needs Jesus more than we need to be liked.

Don't Pull A Saul

2007-04-23T21:22:00.000-05:00

I've been reading through 1 Samuel and I came to chapter 28, which is when Saul consults a witch because God would not help him. I related this to life, as we should when reading the bible. For some christians God is just a weekly event where they put on a mask and go to church, while the rest of the week God is in the closet. Part of Sauls shortcomings is because he disobeyed God, but he also had a tendency to put God on the shelf until a time of crisis came. God being the omnipotent being that he is decided to show Saul what happens when he only makes pitstop prayers. Saul had the sense to realize that his strength came from God, but he went to a spiritist when God didn't help him. There are obvious wrongs with consulting the devil after God has been the source of strength until that point. Later on Saul killed himself because the Philistines destroyed his family. Do we have a witch in our presence, is there something that you turn to because God's anwer isn't something you can swallow? Or are you guilty of making a relationship with God a weekly event? Be persistent and pray fervently so that you will know that whatever the outcome God is in it. Don't taint your faith with perverse sources.

Tag

2007-04-19T17:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, six weird facts about me...
-I ride a unicycle
-One of my legs has different color hair than the other
-My family used to raise Emus
-I enjoy mud bathing
-My feet are Hobbit like
-I can play the spoons

Alright then, that was informative. Jordan is now it.

Shout Him Out!

2007-04-17T17:29:00.000-05:00

There is not a lot going on right now, but I thank God for that because it gives me more time to focus on him. Now I want to challenge everybody who reads this. In our daily life there are always times where we get a little sheepish about our faith, times when we decide that this is not the place for God. I know I am guilty of doing this. Something that offends me every day is people taking the name of the lord in vain. The name of Jesus makes me flinch, but when it is said out of frustration it is more of a shudder that occurs. I know I am tired of this, and as all of you as my witnesses I will confront this. If there is a situation where you are suppressing saying something for Jesus, let it plague you no longer. The rocks are already crying out, give them a microphone!

It's that time

2007-04-12T12:18:00.000-05:00

It seems it is the time of year that no one has anything to write about. The ground is soggy, the streets are filthy and it's spring! I think this time of year makes people stir crazy, Travis and Gus dyed their hair black and I dyed my left leg hair, odd. At this time I would like to encourage everyone. Whatever struggles are presenting themselves with your faith, any frustrations or doubts.

10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[d] to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14in whom we have redemption,[e] the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:10-13

I could say more but that pretty much sums it up. God's goodness will lead men to repentance.

I've been to Merritt

2007-04-10T17:45:00.000-05:00

For my Easter weekend , my friend Travis and I went to to his h hometown of Merritt. The weather was very warm people were cowboys. I was laughed at because my horse riding skills are lacking and I cringed at the sight of calves being seared.I I think the most eye opening part of the trip was the close connection between family. I am guilty of taking my family for granted,or maybe my family isn't as close knit as I would like. Should I blame TV for pulling families apart ?Should I blame the disfunctional families that are portrayed? No, I think I'll just encourage everyone to spend more time, actually put effort into the ties you have with your relatives, savor the fellowship.

Gillum

2007-04-04T12:36:00.001-05:00

Why isn't this guy still making records?

Troubled

2007-04-01T17:17:00.000-05:00

I have started to go to You Tube more often and my findings are unpleasant. One of my friends Joseph in Dawson Creek has started up a you tube ministry. He presents facts on Christianity and debates atheism. His segments are called Skeptics Antidote. I am in all in favor of this sort of ministry if, it is done with the right attitude and the right knowledge. What troubles me is the responses. There is such hostility between atheists and Christians, rightfully so, but what really concerns me is how this hurts the ministry of Jesus. For the most part people debating atheists are just spreading hatred, and the hardening of hearts. In what way can we approach these sorts of conversations, yes with love and sensitivity, any other suggestions?

2007-03-31T12:40:00.000-05:00

Psalm 90

BOOK IV : Psalms 90-106

A prayer of Moses the man of God.

1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place
throughout all generations.

2 Before the mountains were born
or you brought forth the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

3 You turn men back to dust,
saying, "Return to dust, O sons of men."

4 For a thousand years in your sight
are like a day that has just gone by,
or like a watch in the night.

5 You sweep men away in the sleep of death;
they are like the new grass of the morning-

6 though in the morning it springs up new,
by evening it is dry and withered.

7 We are consumed by your anger
and terrified by your indignation.

8 You have set our iniquities before you,
our secret sins in the light of your presence.

9 All our days pass away under your wrath;
we finish our years with a moan.

10 The length of our days is seventy years—
or eighty, if we have the strength;
yet their span ^[a] is but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.

11 Who knows the power of your anger?
For your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you.

12 Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

13 Relent, O LORD! How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.

14 Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

15 Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years as we have seen trouble.

16 May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.

17 May the favor ^[b] of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.

The Real One

2007-03-29T18:17:00.001-05:00

Tony Campolo on The Hour

2007-03-28T10:50:00.000-05:00

http://www.cbc.ca/thehour/video.php?id=1401

Leap of Faith

2007-03-26T00:47:00.000-05:00

Well, the family is gone, and now it's just me alone again for 3 more months, ho hum. No! it's not that boring, I have God by my side. Fellow Christians, when was the last time you have taken a leap of faith? My wonderful girlfriend Andrea, unknowingly supported my idea for this post. I'm sure she'll say something on her blog, and if not ask her about it. When I came to Dawson Creek I had so many doubts, so many fears, I had no idea why I should come here. The only sensible thought I had in my head was that learning to cook would help me to serve God better. Now as I near the end of my schooling I must search God's infinite wisdom for some more answers. But I thank him always for placing me here. It has grown my faith so much, it has brought Andrea and I closer together, but most importantly it has given me a chance to preach lost souls the grace of God. Don't be like the wealthy man who could not let go of his possessions. May nothing distract you from the course God has shown you for your life. Let go, let God.

Family today!

2007-03-22T23:30:00.000-05:00

Today was officially my first day back in the dining room, which means I made fancy food, which is why i'm here. My parents and david arrive today, i am currently waiting for them. On the spiritual side, I have discovered(through reading Soul Feast by Marjorie j. Thompson, thanks Sister in law) that there is a whole different dimension to reading the bible. It is a style created by the benedictine monks. I cannot remember the latin word for it but I will tell you so you may benefit from it aswell. It starts with lectio or reading, first read the text over, do it slowly let it sink in. Next is meditatio visualize as you read so that it sticks in your mind. Then, oratio speak, sing or pray as the text moves you. Lastly, relax, meditate on what you've read, apply it to your life, extract new truths from God's word. Remember to not rush this process, set aside time daily to read the bible. Always give God the best of your time, not when you wake up tired and groggy, or when your eyes keep closing.

Integrity

2007-03-20T18:03:00.000-05:00

Alright I've had it! I am tired of christian men tip toeing around the topic of sex. As a man I know that men are made with certain urges for the opposite sex. I will not go into this topic deeply because females do read this blog on occasion. As christian men we are called to uphold our bodies, to treat them as they were the temple of God. Too often I've talked to christian brothers and found that in all aspects of their life they can successfully strive for christian standards, except when it comes to purity. And that is exactly what is holding back your relationship with God. You cannot fully commit yourself to God when, inside you are filled with guilt, self loathing and depression. "13No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 Jesus went through all the temptations we did, it is possible to maintain sexual integrity. By daily committing your desires,thoughts, and actions to God. Also it is helpful to have a trusted friend to talk to and hold you accountable, because we can't trust ourselves. Do not expect an overnight turn from bad habits, it takes fervent discipline. I know in the back of your mind you want to give into these sins, that is because the world is filled with sex, so instead replace TV, Internet, and unholy talk with God. Marinate yourself in the bible, in prayer and in christian literature. Also protect your computer http://www.xxxchurch.com/. Be all that God wants you to be.

Little Blue Church

2007-03-18T17:01:00.000-05:00

Through the glass doors, the familiar odour stimulates the nostrils, greeted warmly by smiling faces with outstretched arms. Into the sanctuary, breath drawn, I let the presence of God and fellow believers saturate and quiet my wandering spirit. Traditional melodies emanate from the piano, harmonies evolve from inked out hymnals. A brother takes the stand, truths of the gospel are revealed through the various interpretations of God's perfect message. From every ones week come forth new trials, praises and dilemmas. The requests given and received by the Father are made known. The informal formalities finished, rich aromas of coffee waft, the fellowship begins, some speak of observations from the service, others small talk, and some listen. The congregation leaves, educated through the Church, reassured through praise, and confident through such a great cloud of witnesses. Little Blue Church

http://northgatembchurch.blogspot.com/

Take it away now

2007-03-16T19:02:00.000-05:00

The importance of fasting is something that is relevant to all believers, but is not practiced often enough. The book study on "Soul Feast" that Annemarie has been leading has tweaked some thinking for me. This past week we have been assigned to read the chapter on fasting. Fasting is not just something your parents do, it should be an integral part of our walk with God. Fasting is when one resists something that is an indulgence, such as too much food, TV, spending money, or gossip. When we don't allow our indulgences to control us then that is one less thing to come between yourself and God. While you are fasting your mind and body will long for the forbidden thing, at that time you are reminded of God and the reason you are fasting. Let God fill your desires, we do not live on bread alone, hunger should not master us. If you do not fast regularily, try it for a day this week. Be reminded of the sacrifice Jesus made for you.

Pics from Whitehorse

2007-03-14T22:57:00.000-05:00

Doggsledding, Boxing, Terrace peeps, Alaska

Ministry in all mediums

2007-03-14T18:20:00.000-05:00

I'm back

2007-03-13T17:44:00.000-05:00

Hello everybody, I am back!
I apologize if my last post was a little bleak, it wasn't really that bad. I made some new friends from Terrace and from Nanimo,BC. The mountains were especially ominous to this prairie boy, the northern lights shone boldly and the coffee was delicious. I will try to post some pictures but I'm not promising anything. Anyways, I want to encourage all the believers out there. Recently I have been evaluating how I carry myself as A Christian. Does my demeanor emulate Christ, do people notice an unearthly essence in me? While in Whitehorse I was told that I stood out, that there was something was different about me- well that was all God- because I felt that I was struggling. If you are feeling that you aren't being all that you can be for God, that's when God is using you the most, because when you have no hope in yourself your pride is gone. Pride of life is the downfall of man. Be poured out wine and stale bread for Christ.

It's Hard out here for a Cook

2007-03-06T17:36:00.000-06:00

Hello from the north! I am in whitehorse. It is cold but now slightly less cold. The scenery is fantastic. I am now beginning to realize the filth of the world. For anyone who has not worked in a kitchen, it is not a pretty place for a christian. It was said that cooks are either gay or alcoholic, and that is hardly an exageration. But Jesus loves everybody. It's not to say that I am not making some good friends, but maintaining a christ like attitude and demeanor is not easy when engulfed in filth. So please pray for me. Tomorrow we are going on a day trip to alaska. I cannot wait to get back to a closer place to home.

Escaping to the Cold

2007-02-20T16:57:00.000-06:00

Alright, I'm a little distracted from my usual writing because I'm going to the Yukon tomorrow. I'm volunteering at the Canada winter games. I will be cooking for 6000 people a day for 20 days. Anyways I am quite unsure of what to expect, but I think I'll experience some tests of faith while I'm there. Although that reminds me of how many daily oppurtunities we have to set ourselves apart from the heathens. I can't help but quote Michelle, "don't do something that a non-christian could do just as well". I know I'm guilty of joining the wrong conversations, not serving with all of me, or avoiding my faith because of embarassment. Take time to asses daily situations and avoid compromising your integrity as a witness.

Seek

2007-02-19T12:22:00.000-06:00

I was moved by the church service yesterday, so I thought I'd share. It was all about being silent before God, finding a place and time to marinate in his presence. Among all the hassles of life I find that I fall into a grab and go style of prayer. I come to God make a weak attempt at acknowledging him in all his greatness, then I selfishly go into the requests and feel that I am nothing more than a clanging cymbal. Now Jesus always took time on his own to talk to the father, in the garden, in the desert. So why do we avoid separation from our concerns? I encourage you to go and find your secret place, so that you may be silent, and just listen.

From the Dust

2007-02-17T12:25:00.000-06:00

From this selfish state I will be broken, like a dropped plate.
my mind eludes me, I believe it's lies, running, trying to escape my demise.
stumbling, falling in the abyss, temporarily I trust in short lived bliss.
the trap i'm in, it's gross, it's filthy, it's known as sin.
I cannot fool myself any longer, this hypocritical life has never been wronger.
desperate i look to heaven, misplaced, I stick out like finger eleven.
this is the right mood, realizing i'll only be filled with spiritual food.
my utmost is for his highest, but my will will always be biased.

Take Captive Every Thought

2007-02-16T11:30:00.000-06:00

As we grow in a meaningfull relationship with christ, surrender should be our main focus. Specifically today I will share some thoughts on surrendering our thoughts. What it means to give your thoughts to God is to get rid of all selfish, violent, and lustful parts of ourselves that lurk beneath the surface. Our imagination is a dangerous thing, it controls what we are actually feeling, it knows what the evil desire of our heart is. The reason that the mind is such a dangerous thing is because you are the only one who can control it, it is only accountable to you ( and God but we pretend like he's not there). "Still waters run deep,muddy waters won't keep, what's done in secret comes to life"-Grits. When we change all our thoughts to glorify God, when our imagination is directed on envisioning Christ, the impact is uncomparable. If you can live, breathe and dream Christ then- wow it's unbelievable. Let's make this life a dress rehearsal for heaven.

Rhymes

2007-02-15T10:59:00.000-06:00

Check out the words that Flame brings in this song "Wars of the Mind".

Wars of the Mind

Verse 1: Sometimes I feel like Moses man I just want to run to Midian/ just to change my state but not the state where my city’s in/ but my state of mind/ look for a sign like Gideon/ cause my faith is wavering I’m forsaking dependence again/ you took me from Egypt just to make me a leader/ but like Moses I’m not an eloquent speaker/ I’m not eloquent either/ not before nor after you’ve spoken/ me in ministry you’ve gotta be jokin’/ I feel like Jeremiah/ here are my bones Lord and here is my fire/ I’m inadequate to represent the messiah/ call me the weepin’ rapper/I read a chapter then I’m heapin’ up laughter/ because I’m weak and I can see the disaster of me in ministry/ I feel Job I curse the day of my birth/ since I was born its only payin’ me hurt/ my insecurities worse/ sometimes I wish that that night was barren/ either that or Lord send me an Aaron

Verse 2: This song is for you my sisters and brothers who strugglin’ with depression/ not just the blues but a struggle with depression/ maybe it’s clinical and got you taking medicine/ or maybe not but you taking counseling session and/ that’s excellent/ take your medicine/ if you need it cause this is pleasin’ to Jesus/ I write this song for the schizophrenic/ who only gets left alone and throne in a hospital only to panic/ and whose family doesn’t understand/ so they treat you like an animal but never would the Son of Man/ for those who ask what’s going inside of me/ who feels bound by fear bound by anxiety/ I write to you because I know the/ very God who’s in control of bipolar/ I write to those who wrestle with thoughts of suicide/ don’t do it cause Jesus loves you for you He died
Hook: For every tear that you cry for all of the wars in your mind and the fears that you hide know that He’s there know that He’s walking with you I know that it’s hard to press on when the nights seem so long remember His word is your hope so know that He cares know that He’s walking with you

Verse 3: The core problem is that Adam sinned/ and since then to now its 8 out of 10/ women and men and children who struggle with depression/ especially house wives and preachers they’re people who struggle with depression/ I write this song for that introverted/ insecure person that’s training his thoughts into thinking he’s worthless/ God made you/ God can save you/ in everything you can give Him worship/ you’re not worthless/ Lord I pray for the mentally ill/ that in your ministry you mentally heal/ those who suffer with it/ if not now then you eventually will heal your children that are mentally ill/ for now they suffer with it/ give us the strength just deal with your will/ because we sinners and we wrestle with it/ just like Job did it/ I write this song for those who were sexually abused/ lookin’ for weaponry to use seek Jesus

Kneel

2007-02-14T11:29:00.000-06:00

Something that struck me today is the need for humility. I know it isn't easy to be humble in this world. Our society is fuelled by wealth and power. The need to be humble is especially important to christians. By humbling ourselves to God and to others we give up control and truly make our bodies a living sacrifice. When we surrender control of our futures, relationships, and pride we open ourselves to whatever God is trying to say. Try doing something without expecting recognition, without thinking of yourself. Do dishes if they aren't yours, shovel a driveway for someone, encourage a person in your life. You may dislike the saying but there is truth in these words, what would Jesus do?

Answers

2007-02-13T16:05:00.000-06:00

Alright, it has come to my attention recently that the world is encased in addictions. My question is, what is the draw? Why do people become addicted to tobacco, alcohol and sex. It has to be more than the obvious stimulants that attract people. I am asking this question in all honesty, coming from a close minded christian home. I understand that once a person is hooked it is a chemical fight inside of them. Or is it our sinful nature that screws us over? Are all addicts just weak willed people? I really can't get my head around this, maybe it's just because I get my high from the Most High.

First Rant

2007-02-12T16:32:00.000-06:00

I don't know how many of you have seen the new Nike commercial, but I am quite put off by it. The commercial features bold symphonic music and quick attractive images, not unlike most commercials. It was the end that shocked me, the commercial ends with a white track suit clad baskeball team strutting towards the camera with the sunrise behind them. This is not the problem and it not a problem that they happen to be of a colored race i am not racist. The kicker was the ending when text appears on the bottom of the screen readin,g "The Second Coming". I may be out of line here but I think that was blasphemy, I think that Nike just compared their products to the return of Jesus. This, to me is unnacceptable, to have my Lord, my Saviour compared to pieces of thread. I challenge my readers to look for the ills of society, to put on your God goggles and see the world for what it is, prepare yourself for depression.