Hello all you people who are reading my blog,
I promised my Great-Grandparents that I would update by blog because I haven't updated in a long time. The reason is that I really haven't had anything to say. There is stuff going on with church and work, but it wouldn't be worth a post. I have a good amount of material to work with now, so it is a pretty good time to start posting again. Here it goes...
First off, I want to talk about the Fall Retreat we had a couple of weeks ago. I think this was a very different retreat. The theme was "Downpour" and we focused on the passage Isaiah 55 (mostly 1-11 with our theme being 10 & 11). I liked the curriculum better this year, but there were times when it was hard to find the flow. That could just have been from me personally. I did prepare for it, but it seemed like I was just all over the place. It threw me off a little bit that it was more girls than guys (I had 9 girls and 2 guys in my group). I am very thankful though that I had Eve Sarrett as the other leader for this group. She works with High School students all the time and she is such a fun and deep person. She really knew how to communicate with them, and it was great learning from her. The retreat was very good in pointing people to Jesus. The speaker was very dynamic. He could tell you a story that would make you laugh off your seat, and then he would bring the word making you look deep inside and ask the tough questions that you are afraid to ask yourself. It seems like at church, there is a fear of sharing the hard truths of the Bible. It reminds me of when Jesus started getting into his ministry and he spoke of repentance and sacrifice. The "religious" people started to leave, but then the sinners started drawing closer to him. I think we can learn something from that.
On a related note, I FINALLY finished my study on the book of Daniel! It was meant to be 13 weeks but it ended up turning into 20. Hey, it's a something! I really enjoyed studying the book of Daniel. To be honest, I was kind of scared to get into it after a certain point because of all the prophesies. I was thinking that I wouldn't understand it, it would hurt my head, and I would quit the study. I learned so much from the prophesy sections though! It really showed me how God has moved throughout history and how he keeps moving. There were some prophesies in there that were revealed to Daniel that didn't come to fruition for hundreds of years! Some haven't even happened yet! I would be so confused if I were him. I'm glad God didn't reveal that stuff to me. I would probably be in a corner crying because my brain would be hurting. Daniel was also a good character to study. He was unlike a lot of people in the Bible. He wasn't very confrontational, he tried to find sensible solutions to problems with those in authority, he didn't have any controversies - he was faithful to God throughout. One of my favorite parts in Daniel was that he was getting high in position and in favor with the King, and the others were taking notice. They said to each other that they had to get rid of Daniel. They tried to dig up some dirt on him, but couldn't find anything. So they said, "The only way to get rid of Daniel is force him to do something that is against his God." They then made it illegal to pray, and he prayed anyway. That alone is a testimony to me. Would you or I be arrested for praying? To be honest, I probably wouldn't make it past their first test. There is a bunch of stuff I could say about this study and a lot that I learned from it. I am thankful for the study, and I look forward to doing more from this author (Kay Arthur - New Inductive Study Series). I'm going to start the study of the gospel of Luke next. Let's hope it only takes 13 weeks this time!
Thanksgiving was a lot of fun! The whole family went down to Indianapolis to visit my Great-Grandparents and my Aunt Sue and Cousin Julia (Shout-out to my family who is reading this!) It was a time of good food, good conversation, and fun. The only bad part was that it rained on the way up, on the way back, and in-between as well! It seems to always rain when we travel there. I don't know why, it just does. If Indiana is ever in a drought, they need to call our house :-)
We had to cut our trip short because we had a concert to sing at with Michael W. Smith and friends. It was a very long day, but it was fun. I haven't sung that much in a long time, so my voice was going out on me. I need to rebuild my stamina if I'm going to do that again. If you are reading this and have some time, there are a couple of songs on his new album that he sung that are great (Welcome Home and You Belong to Me).
That's about it. I will blog again soon if something happens. Have a great rest of the day and a great Holiday weekend!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Man proposes, God disposes
"For the resolutions of the just depend rather on the grace of God than on their own wisdom; and in Him they always put their trust, whatever they take in hand.
For man proposes, but God disposes; neither is the way of man in his own hands" (Thomas A Kempis).
It has been almost two months since I have been in Hong Kong. During that week, (I believe it was a Wednesday), I got to talk to Pastor Billy of CBIBC. It was a short conversation, but I still remember it. He asked me what I was doing, if I was in school, what my job was, etc. I told him about what's been going on, and I finally just admitted to him, "You know, I had all these plans lined out for me. I didn't think it would be any problem to get a job, I thought everything would be set and I would just keep on going with my life. I don't know whether it's the job market where I am at or if I didn't try hard enough, I just know that it seems like all my plans have fallen through." Pastor Billy said to me, "You know, it's just like the saying, 'Man proposes, God disposes.' Our way and God's way to don't always line up. What you need to do now is keep your eyes open and look for any open doors or opportunities that come your way. God has a plan in all of this."
This isn't going to be one of those posts where I complain about how things are or what I am feeling at the moment. I wanted to share with you what God has been doing in my life since all this stuff has been happening. This is not the way I would envision it to happen, but I can see the good things that have come from it. I wanted to share with you a couple of things that have happened to me since all this has happened.
Work
I have been blessed the past several years to be working at a place that gives me flexible hours, good pay, with really great people. I was still employed when I was looking for a job. The boss even gave me a recommendation and helped fill out some forms for me. When I did not get a job, I was still able to keep this one. Through this job I have still had something to do, I helped pay off my mission trip, I still have some extra cash to do other things, and I have been able to give more to the church then before. I know that some people don't even have employment now that were looking for jobs as I was. I realize what a blessing it is to have one.
Relationships
When you graduate from college and stop going to the events and studies and activities that you did when you were in college, you tend to lose contact with several people and friends. That's when you kind of figure out who your really good friends are. I may not be in contact with as many people as I used to, but I can point out people that I consider good friends. That is not to say that I don't enjoy the company of those I haven't seen in a while. But me be gone has caused some friendships to deepen. Time with my family has been good too. With all my mom's traveling and things with my dad, it has been kind of difficult and I can see that I'm not just another person in the house :-) It was rough me having to answer to my parents about lack of interviews, what my plans were now, and things like that, but it has gotten better. I can see the growth that has happened since then.
Ministries:
1) I figured if I couldn't teach kids at school, I could certainly do it at church! I signed up to be a teacher in the Children's ministry. I still feel kind of new to the whole thing, but it reminds me a lot of teaching in school - only better. We get to talk to them about God, faith, and pray together. More than anything, this ministry has taught me humility along with serving with a happy heart. It reminded me that it doesn't matter what your position is as long as you are doing what God has called you to do.
2) It has been a very different year for Lifegroup ministries. I have had some of these guys for 4-5 years but every year it seems to me that I have a different group. This year seems to be a little bit of a challenge. I feel comfortable teaching them, being honest with them, and I think that they all want to grow in their faith. Yet I am just encountering so much resistance this year from them, from myself, and from everywhere. I think that God can and will do big things in this group this year, but it all depends on where our motives are. This year has been teaching me that Phillip and I really need to be on guard and making sure we are growing spiritually and held accountable to God, each other, and our group. Then we need to make sure that we are setting a good example for all of our guys. We also need to be teaching in such a way that we are no longer spoon-feeding them anymore, but challenging them. This is a time when they need to make their faith their own, and that is where I see a lot of the resistance coming into play. I see this year heading into a big lesson on accountability.
My own Faith
God still worked through me from May-August, but this was a very difficult time for me. Other than Summer Camp and the Mission Trip (plus two times directing traffic), I wasn't really serving. I wasn't part of a Bible Study. I didn't want to talk to anybody about what was going on because I felt I was being punished and that I was a total failure. I thought that's how most people saw me, even if they didn't admit it. Yet over time, I started to realize a couple of things. I wrestled with what was the most important thing in life. Was I living life for me or for God? How did I view success? How am I using what happened to me for God's Glory? What was he trying to tell me? Do I care more about how people see me, or how God sees me? What do I do now? Through all of these questions I realized that first and foremost, I needed to focus on what was really important. My faith. I started doing a devotional again. I went to church, prayed more, poured myself into ministry, and even put some stepping stones into place to help me overcome some of my problems. Once I started to do that, I found contentment with where I was at.
There are still several bumps, but I am still keeping my eyes open for those open doors. I do know what is important though. That's what really matters.
For man proposes, but God disposes; neither is the way of man in his own hands" (Thomas A Kempis).
It has been almost two months since I have been in Hong Kong. During that week, (I believe it was a Wednesday), I got to talk to Pastor Billy of CBIBC. It was a short conversation, but I still remember it. He asked me what I was doing, if I was in school, what my job was, etc. I told him about what's been going on, and I finally just admitted to him, "You know, I had all these plans lined out for me. I didn't think it would be any problem to get a job, I thought everything would be set and I would just keep on going with my life. I don't know whether it's the job market where I am at or if I didn't try hard enough, I just know that it seems like all my plans have fallen through." Pastor Billy said to me, "You know, it's just like the saying, 'Man proposes, God disposes.' Our way and God's way to don't always line up. What you need to do now is keep your eyes open and look for any open doors or opportunities that come your way. God has a plan in all of this."
This isn't going to be one of those posts where I complain about how things are or what I am feeling at the moment. I wanted to share with you what God has been doing in my life since all this stuff has been happening. This is not the way I would envision it to happen, but I can see the good things that have come from it. I wanted to share with you a couple of things that have happened to me since all this has happened.
Work
I have been blessed the past several years to be working at a place that gives me flexible hours, good pay, with really great people. I was still employed when I was looking for a job. The boss even gave me a recommendation and helped fill out some forms for me. When I did not get a job, I was still able to keep this one. Through this job I have still had something to do, I helped pay off my mission trip, I still have some extra cash to do other things, and I have been able to give more to the church then before. I know that some people don't even have employment now that were looking for jobs as I was. I realize what a blessing it is to have one.
Relationships
When you graduate from college and stop going to the events and studies and activities that you did when you were in college, you tend to lose contact with several people and friends. That's when you kind of figure out who your really good friends are. I may not be in contact with as many people as I used to, but I can point out people that I consider good friends. That is not to say that I don't enjoy the company of those I haven't seen in a while. But me be gone has caused some friendships to deepen. Time with my family has been good too. With all my mom's traveling and things with my dad, it has been kind of difficult and I can see that I'm not just another person in the house :-) It was rough me having to answer to my parents about lack of interviews, what my plans were now, and things like that, but it has gotten better. I can see the growth that has happened since then.
Ministries:
1) I figured if I couldn't teach kids at school, I could certainly do it at church! I signed up to be a teacher in the Children's ministry. I still feel kind of new to the whole thing, but it reminds me a lot of teaching in school - only better. We get to talk to them about God, faith, and pray together. More than anything, this ministry has taught me humility along with serving with a happy heart. It reminded me that it doesn't matter what your position is as long as you are doing what God has called you to do.
2) It has been a very different year for Lifegroup ministries. I have had some of these guys for 4-5 years but every year it seems to me that I have a different group. This year seems to be a little bit of a challenge. I feel comfortable teaching them, being honest with them, and I think that they all want to grow in their faith. Yet I am just encountering so much resistance this year from them, from myself, and from everywhere. I think that God can and will do big things in this group this year, but it all depends on where our motives are. This year has been teaching me that Phillip and I really need to be on guard and making sure we are growing spiritually and held accountable to God, each other, and our group. Then we need to make sure that we are setting a good example for all of our guys. We also need to be teaching in such a way that we are no longer spoon-feeding them anymore, but challenging them. This is a time when they need to make their faith their own, and that is where I see a lot of the resistance coming into play. I see this year heading into a big lesson on accountability.
My own Faith
God still worked through me from May-August, but this was a very difficult time for me. Other than Summer Camp and the Mission Trip (plus two times directing traffic), I wasn't really serving. I wasn't part of a Bible Study. I didn't want to talk to anybody about what was going on because I felt I was being punished and that I was a total failure. I thought that's how most people saw me, even if they didn't admit it. Yet over time, I started to realize a couple of things. I wrestled with what was the most important thing in life. Was I living life for me or for God? How did I view success? How am I using what happened to me for God's Glory? What was he trying to tell me? Do I care more about how people see me, or how God sees me? What do I do now? Through all of these questions I realized that first and foremost, I needed to focus on what was really important. My faith. I started doing a devotional again. I went to church, prayed more, poured myself into ministry, and even put some stepping stones into place to help me overcome some of my problems. Once I started to do that, I found contentment with where I was at.
There are still several bumps, but I am still keeping my eyes open for those open doors. I do know what is important though. That's what really matters.
Sunday, September 05, 2010
The Oath & Other things
Hey Everyone!I have been meaning to read this author for quite some time. I am always a little hesitant to try out new authors, but this one seemed interesting. So I went to McKay's, bought this book for 50 cents (quite a deal) and read it. I must say...I should have read his stuff earlier! It was not only entertaining, but it was very thought-provoking. I don't really want to give the story away, so I will just tell you the part of it that really got me thinking and I thought was interesting.
This town of Hyde River has a curse. If you keep doing bad things, then a black spot appears over your heart. It hurts at first and if you don't take care of the problem, then it doesn't hurt and it starts to stain with tar and it smells like a dead animal. The person doesn't notice, becomes oblivious to reality, and then it is then marked for Hyde River's biggest secret. It started off small but when more and more people got marked, it fed off them and got bigger. There is only one way to defeat it. The battle cannot be won with guns, knives, or any conventional weapons, but with something - or rather someone - else (Do you see the symbolism?). Critics say that be basically started a new genre of "Christian Horror," and my personal thoughts are that you should go about it like a book talking about the end times. If you are in the right, then you have nothing to worry about!
Things have been going good here. I am working at Legalbill for the time being. It's a good job that I enjoy, so it's great to have for the time being. Other than that, I have started Lifegroups with my now 10th grade guys and I am also helping out in a children Sunday school class (1st grade). Both have been really good. I haven't officially taught in my Lifegroup yet, but I'll be doing that this week and also a little bit at Genesis Weekend this coming Saturday and Sunday. I had my first official teaching (meaning I put it and executed it by myself) with the first graders this past Sunday. It went very well. For the record though, I must admit this. If this past year has taught me anything it is that, "...and he who walks in pride he is able to humble" (Daniel 4:37). I realize that this past weekend and other times with my Lifegroup were only successful because it was God working through me. So, I will try not to be so prideful in the future.
Other than that, not a whole lot more going on with me. I've started some new...not really obsessions but engaged interests...in several different things. One is that I started to watch a lot of different Vloggers on You Tube. I always thought, "I don't really want to watch people just give their opinions and talk about life." Yet when I started to watch a couple, I couldn't help myself! I want the official NFL season to start already. The Titans have a really good team this year, and I am also excited to see how other teams will do as well. I think some of the NFL players need to get over themselves. I won't mention names, but they know who they are!
I hope that this finds you well. Have a great rest of the day!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Time for some Honesty
Hello Everyone,
I hope that everything is treating you well. I wanted to say "thank you" to those of you who have been reading my blog and keeping up with the mission trip to Hong Kong. It was a great trip. Three kids accepted Christ (one being the first in his whole family), my love for the people there grew, and it reminded me that God's Kingdom is a lot more diverse than we give it credit for! I'm hoping that I will be able to go back next year.
A lot of times when I wrote a blog, I will give an update on what's going on with my life. Sometimes I may talk about what events I'm part of, books I'm reading, or just some random thoughts in my head. Rarely do I just vent or really go in depth about how I am feeling. I mainly don't do that because I don't want want to seem depressing or because I don't want to get personal online. This is a blog after all, and if you wanted to get more personal you could talk to me. Yet over the past several months, I have found it a little hard to talk about what's been going on and effectively communicate how I feel. So I am going to use this blog as a way to do that. This blog is not directed toward anyone in particular. Whether you are in a similar situation or totally opposite, this is mainly an outlet that I want to use for me and for others that want to see what's really going on.
Today is the first day of school for Williamson County. As most (if not all) of you know, I graduated this past December and have been applying for teaching jobs - mainly in Middle Tennessee. Since college I have been told since I was a male teaching in the elementary age group, I would have no problems finding a job. I was told that through classes, through student teaching, and by people inside and outside of the profession. Even though I appreciate the encouragement, I kind of wish they would have not told me that! I applied for several jobs, e-mailed some principals...and didn't hear anything. I kept rationalizing it saying that it's too early, they need to take care of this first, they still have some time, they are still reviewing my stuff, etc. Looking back, I know I probably wasn't as pro-active as I should have been and I should have broadened my outlook a little bit. From what I heard from people too, it's also to find a job here in Middle Tennessee regardless of profession. Whatever the reason, I didn't get employment as a teacher. To be honest, I'm a little disappointed. I love to teach. I could have been passed over because of my experience or because they felt that there was someone better for the job. I have some friends that did find employment teaching, and I am happy for them. They knew they wanted to teach since they could walk, and it's a dream for them. For me though, it's a different story.
To quote one of my professors, "It is what it is." Looking on the bright side, I still have employment at a job where I feel that I am contributing. I am still teaching Lifegroups and I am actually starting something new this year and helping to teach a children's Sunday School class. I love to teach and being able to teach about God makes it even greater. One reason I'm happy I didn't take a job elsewhere is because of these opportunities.
Did you know this is my 5th year with my Lifegroup? It's amazing how much they (and I) have grown since I met some of them in 6th grade. Now they are starting their first year of 10th. Then this Sunday I will be in a room full of 1st graders building relationships, learning about a new ministry, and growing myself. How come no one really wants to ask me about this? Whether in church or outside of church, it seems like people define you by what job you have. I know some of them are concerned, and I do appreciate that. But no one really asks me questions that I would like to answer. "What has God been doing in your life lately?" "Tell me about this year with your Lifegroups." "What is your favorite episode of Scrubs?" "What makes a perfect Hamburger?"
Kidding aside, I can say that things haven't turned out like I thought. As pastor Billy told me in Hong Kong, "Man proposes, God disposes." Right now I am keeping my eyes open for any open doors, trying to be content in all circumstances, and focusing on how to be a great leader for my guys and group I'm going to meet this Sunday.
Thank you for listening and for those of you who continue with prayers and support. Have a great rest of the day, and I wish you the best!
I hope that everything is treating you well. I wanted to say "thank you" to those of you who have been reading my blog and keeping up with the mission trip to Hong Kong. It was a great trip. Three kids accepted Christ (one being the first in his whole family), my love for the people there grew, and it reminded me that God's Kingdom is a lot more diverse than we give it credit for! I'm hoping that I will be able to go back next year.
A lot of times when I wrote a blog, I will give an update on what's going on with my life. Sometimes I may talk about what events I'm part of, books I'm reading, or just some random thoughts in my head. Rarely do I just vent or really go in depth about how I am feeling. I mainly don't do that because I don't want want to seem depressing or because I don't want to get personal online. This is a blog after all, and if you wanted to get more personal you could talk to me. Yet over the past several months, I have found it a little hard to talk about what's been going on and effectively communicate how I feel. So I am going to use this blog as a way to do that. This blog is not directed toward anyone in particular. Whether you are in a similar situation or totally opposite, this is mainly an outlet that I want to use for me and for others that want to see what's really going on.
Today is the first day of school for Williamson County. As most (if not all) of you know, I graduated this past December and have been applying for teaching jobs - mainly in Middle Tennessee. Since college I have been told since I was a male teaching in the elementary age group, I would have no problems finding a job. I was told that through classes, through student teaching, and by people inside and outside of the profession. Even though I appreciate the encouragement, I kind of wish they would have not told me that! I applied for several jobs, e-mailed some principals...and didn't hear anything. I kept rationalizing it saying that it's too early, they need to take care of this first, they still have some time, they are still reviewing my stuff, etc. Looking back, I know I probably wasn't as pro-active as I should have been and I should have broadened my outlook a little bit. From what I heard from people too, it's also to find a job here in Middle Tennessee regardless of profession. Whatever the reason, I didn't get employment as a teacher. To be honest, I'm a little disappointed. I love to teach. I could have been passed over because of my experience or because they felt that there was someone better for the job. I have some friends that did find employment teaching, and I am happy for them. They knew they wanted to teach since they could walk, and it's a dream for them. For me though, it's a different story.
To quote one of my professors, "It is what it is." Looking on the bright side, I still have employment at a job where I feel that I am contributing. I am still teaching Lifegroups and I am actually starting something new this year and helping to teach a children's Sunday School class. I love to teach and being able to teach about God makes it even greater. One reason I'm happy I didn't take a job elsewhere is because of these opportunities.
Did you know this is my 5th year with my Lifegroup? It's amazing how much they (and I) have grown since I met some of them in 6th grade. Now they are starting their first year of 10th. Then this Sunday I will be in a room full of 1st graders building relationships, learning about a new ministry, and growing myself. How come no one really wants to ask me about this? Whether in church or outside of church, it seems like people define you by what job you have. I know some of them are concerned, and I do appreciate that. But no one really asks me questions that I would like to answer. "What has God been doing in your life lately?" "Tell me about this year with your Lifegroups." "What is your favorite episode of Scrubs?" "What makes a perfect Hamburger?"
Kidding aside, I can say that things haven't turned out like I thought. As pastor Billy told me in Hong Kong, "Man proposes, God disposes." Right now I am keeping my eyes open for any open doors, trying to be content in all circumstances, and focusing on how to be a great leader for my guys and group I'm going to meet this Sunday.
Thank you for listening and for those of you who continue with prayers and support. Have a great rest of the day, and I wish you the best!
Monday, August 02, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Flight Home)
Hey Everyone!!!
I am writing this blog from home. I am trying to stay awake right now to get my body re-adjusted to this time zone. It's a struggle. I would like to sleep right now, but I know that it would be more beneficial for me to stay awake and go to bed early. So, I will do that!
Yesterday was our trip home. The trip home is always the longest day of your life. When I went to the airport, it was August 1st in Hong Kong and July 31st in Tennessee. When I got back to Tennessee, it was the night of August 1st and the morning of August 2nd in Hong Kong (doesn't that blow your mind?!?). Basically I pulled an all-nighter of travel. Let me tell you about my adventure with the planes.
First, Lacey and I went to the airport. All of our team was at CBIBC giving the wrap-up of our VBS week with a presentation. We got to the airport (with plenty of time to get checked in and go through security) and we came to a VERY long line. But, it was all right. We should be able to get through the line and security before the gate closed at 9:55am. We finally got to the counter at 9:15. It was cutting it short, but we could still make it. We got up there and the guy said, "There's a problem. You didn't reserve your seats." We both looked at each other like, "What is this guy talking about?" We did not have to reserve seats for this flight, the ticket was already paid for, and we were confirmed to be on there. As a matter of fact, they were supposed to assign us seats when we got to the counter. So the man told us to stand to the side and he would get to us in 10 minutes. Twenty minutes went by, and he didn't even look at us. I went to ask him a question, and he refused to talk to me. It was the same with the others. There was nothing we could do but wait. I looked at my watch and it was 5-10 minutes until our gate closed and we still didn't get through security or immigration. Then it was 9:55. We knew there was no way we could get on the flight. Lacey was talking to her dad about other options and I was thinking of who I could contact. I couldn't contact any of my team members and I didn't have anyone's phone number for the missions office at BBC. I ended up calling two ministers from BBC (who are Godly and forgiving men...sorry if I called you guys late, but I appreciate your help!) Right when Lacey was on the phone with one of them and was texted information about who to contact, a miracle happened. At 10:05am, we were called up to the counter. We thought that they were re-booking us. That was fine, as long as we got home. It turned out they got us seats for this plane. But the plane was going to TAKE OFF in 10 minutes. One of the crew members said, "Follow me." We went through the security and immigration that the crew members go through. We got to our gate and they were waiting for us. We gave them our ticket, ran to our seats, and the plane took off a couple minutes later. We looked at each other and were like, "That was unbelievable."
There's not much to say about the 15 hour flight, so I will go on to our next adventure. These words are like curse words in the aviation industry...Newark Airport. We already had a 3-4 hour layover and when we got there, they delayed it for two more hours! We were there from 2pm-8pm. I met a guy there who had been there since 6:30 in the morning trying to get a flight to Nashville! Can you believe that? He was also getting deployed to Afghanistan this week. He made it with us, but my goodness. Anyway, the fun thing that happened was our gate changed twice. The first change was okay. We were at least in the right terminal. Then as I was talking about it this man came up to me and said, "Are you going to Nashville? They changed the gate to terminal C." I went and double-checked and then an announcement came on. We had to take a shuttle to terminal C and then wait for an hour or more. We finally TOOK OFF at 9:00pm and got home around 10ish? I was tired, I really can't remember.
That was our day of flight. Once again, once of the longest days of my life. I will probably blog again to wrap up everything, but I wanted to share what happened yesterday.
I hope that everyone is doing well. Have a great rest of the day!
Scott
I am writing this blog from home. I am trying to stay awake right now to get my body re-adjusted to this time zone. It's a struggle. I would like to sleep right now, but I know that it would be more beneficial for me to stay awake and go to bed early. So, I will do that!
Yesterday was our trip home. The trip home is always the longest day of your life. When I went to the airport, it was August 1st in Hong Kong and July 31st in Tennessee. When I got back to Tennessee, it was the night of August 1st and the morning of August 2nd in Hong Kong (doesn't that blow your mind?!?). Basically I pulled an all-nighter of travel. Let me tell you about my adventure with the planes.
First, Lacey and I went to the airport. All of our team was at CBIBC giving the wrap-up of our VBS week with a presentation. We got to the airport (with plenty of time to get checked in and go through security) and we came to a VERY long line. But, it was all right. We should be able to get through the line and security before the gate closed at 9:55am. We finally got to the counter at 9:15. It was cutting it short, but we could still make it. We got up there and the guy said, "There's a problem. You didn't reserve your seats." We both looked at each other like, "What is this guy talking about?" We did not have to reserve seats for this flight, the ticket was already paid for, and we were confirmed to be on there. As a matter of fact, they were supposed to assign us seats when we got to the counter. So the man told us to stand to the side and he would get to us in 10 minutes. Twenty minutes went by, and he didn't even look at us. I went to ask him a question, and he refused to talk to me. It was the same with the others. There was nothing we could do but wait. I looked at my watch and it was 5-10 minutes until our gate closed and we still didn't get through security or immigration. Then it was 9:55. We knew there was no way we could get on the flight. Lacey was talking to her dad about other options and I was thinking of who I could contact. I couldn't contact any of my team members and I didn't have anyone's phone number for the missions office at BBC. I ended up calling two ministers from BBC (who are Godly and forgiving men...sorry if I called you guys late, but I appreciate your help!) Right when Lacey was on the phone with one of them and was texted information about who to contact, a miracle happened. At 10:05am, we were called up to the counter. We thought that they were re-booking us. That was fine, as long as we got home. It turned out they got us seats for this plane. But the plane was going to TAKE OFF in 10 minutes. One of the crew members said, "Follow me." We went through the security and immigration that the crew members go through. We got to our gate and they were waiting for us. We gave them our ticket, ran to our seats, and the plane took off a couple minutes later. We looked at each other and were like, "That was unbelievable."
There's not much to say about the 15 hour flight, so I will go on to our next adventure. These words are like curse words in the aviation industry...Newark Airport. We already had a 3-4 hour layover and when we got there, they delayed it for two more hours! We were there from 2pm-8pm. I met a guy there who had been there since 6:30 in the morning trying to get a flight to Nashville! Can you believe that? He was also getting deployed to Afghanistan this week. He made it with us, but my goodness. Anyway, the fun thing that happened was our gate changed twice. The first change was okay. We were at least in the right terminal. Then as I was talking about it this man came up to me and said, "Are you going to Nashville? They changed the gate to terminal C." I went and double-checked and then an announcement came on. We had to take a shuttle to terminal C and then wait for an hour or more. We finally TOOK OFF at 9:00pm and got home around 10ish? I was tired, I really can't remember.
That was our day of flight. Once again, once of the longest days of my life. I will probably blog again to wrap up everything, but I wanted to share what happened yesterday.
I hope that everyone is doing well. Have a great rest of the day!
Scott
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Day 9)
Hey Everyone!!!
Today was my last day in Hong Kong. It was very bittersweet. I am looking forward to seeing friends and family and sleeping in my own bed, but I am going to miss all my team members who are going to their respective homes and my friends from Hong Kong (both of whom seem like family now). But looking on the bright side, let me tell you about what I did today.
Today we got to sleep in (PRAISE JESUS) before we went somewhere. As a group, we decided that we would go to Lantau Island to see the world's largest Buddha. The trip itself was an experience. We got on the MTR for a while and then we went on the Cable Car. I'll try to insert some pictures from that when I get a chance. I have never been so high up in the air but yet also felt so peaceful. Part of me was screaming inside because of the heights but I calmed myself down after a minute or two. After that, we finally made it to the place. I got to see a Kung-Fu presentation going on and after that we went up to see the Big Buddha. We went up about 100 steps or so and finally made it. Courtney said it best, "I felt like Po at the very end of Kung Fu Panda." Now this Buddha was huge! I got some pictures of it, but it may not do it justice. The interesting thing about this was there was a quote inside the building that said, "China has always been a place where freedom of religion has been protected for it's citizens." Interesting...
After we saw the Big Buddha, we made our way back for the BBQ at Thomas' house. He is a missionary/children's minister who helped put this whole thing together. We ate lots of food, sang songs, and just shared about how God was working this week. It made me feel like this is what the church in Acts must have been like.
Now, I need to go and pack for my flight tomorrow. I have a four hour lay-over in Newark, so that will be awesome! I will blog back when I get to the states to wrap up things. Thanks for following my blog. Sorry I couldn't be more detailed because of the time constraint.
Please play for all flight preparations tomorrow!
Today was my last day in Hong Kong. It was very bittersweet. I am looking forward to seeing friends and family and sleeping in my own bed, but I am going to miss all my team members who are going to their respective homes and my friends from Hong Kong (both of whom seem like family now). But looking on the bright side, let me tell you about what I did today.
Today we got to sleep in (PRAISE JESUS) before we went somewhere. As a group, we decided that we would go to Lantau Island to see the world's largest Buddha. The trip itself was an experience. We got on the MTR for a while and then we went on the Cable Car. I'll try to insert some pictures from that when I get a chance. I have never been so high up in the air but yet also felt so peaceful. Part of me was screaming inside because of the heights but I calmed myself down after a minute or two. After that, we finally made it to the place. I got to see a Kung-Fu presentation going on and after that we went up to see the Big Buddha. We went up about 100 steps or so and finally made it. Courtney said it best, "I felt like Po at the very end of Kung Fu Panda." Now this Buddha was huge! I got some pictures of it, but it may not do it justice. The interesting thing about this was there was a quote inside the building that said, "China has always been a place where freedom of religion has been protected for it's citizens." Interesting...
After we saw the Big Buddha, we made our way back for the BBQ at Thomas' house. He is a missionary/children's minister who helped put this whole thing together. We ate lots of food, sang songs, and just shared about how God was working this week. It made me feel like this is what the church in Acts must have been like.
Now, I need to go and pack for my flight tomorrow. I have a four hour lay-over in Newark, so that will be awesome! I will blog back when I get to the states to wrap up things. Thanks for following my blog. Sorry I couldn't be more detailed because of the time constraint.
Please play for all flight preparations tomorrow!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Days 7 & 8)
Hello Everyone!
I finally found some free time to be able to tell you what has been going on the past couple of days. We have our VBS family night in about 4 hours, so we are all just resting and refreshing until then. I'll go ahead and briefly talk about what we did the past couple of days.
Day 7 - This was our fourth day of VBS. We talked about "How can I be like Jesus?" and there were several different stories and things to do. Nothing really big or exciting happened. The main difference was that Janice helped sit in on Courney and I's class and help interpret for some of the kids we felt may be having trouble. It was actually good to have extra help in that class. After VBS, we went to Stanley Market. We ate at a pizza place (which took most of our time), and then we shopped around the market. I got a couple of things and was happy with one of the paintings/pictures I got. If I upload the picture later, I may put it on this blog. After Stanley Market, we came back and dinner was on our own. Courtney, Zach, Janice, and I went to Hong Kong Island to eat at this Mexican Restaurant. It was good but...definitely a different neighborhood. I'll let you fill in the blanks for that.
Day 8 - Today was our last day at VBS! There was a feeling of excitement and a feeling of sadness as we were ready to be done with it because of the hard work and tiredness we were feeling, but we were also very sad to see it end because we got to know the kids and volunteers really well and tonight will be our last night to see most of them. We actually won't see the ICM kids tonight because they are busy. That was sad for me because Lacey and I will be leaving Sunday morning and that would be the next time we could see them. So this was my last day getting to see those kids. They did give me their names and (almost) all of them are on facebook, so I will probably hear from them again!
Things to pray for:
1) Family Night is in 4 or so hours. Some of the parents of these kids are not Christian, so pray that they get to see the program and hear the Gospel being presented.
2) Activities tomorrow. It is whatever we want to do. Pray for safety
3) Clearwater Bay Church. Pray that they will be able to follow-up on these kids and families.
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
I finally found some free time to be able to tell you what has been going on the past couple of days. We have our VBS family night in about 4 hours, so we are all just resting and refreshing until then. I'll go ahead and briefly talk about what we did the past couple of days.
Day 7 - This was our fourth day of VBS. We talked about "How can I be like Jesus?" and there were several different stories and things to do. Nothing really big or exciting happened. The main difference was that Janice helped sit in on Courney and I's class and help interpret for some of the kids we felt may be having trouble. It was actually good to have extra help in that class. After VBS, we went to Stanley Market. We ate at a pizza place (which took most of our time), and then we shopped around the market. I got a couple of things and was happy with one of the paintings/pictures I got. If I upload the picture later, I may put it on this blog. After Stanley Market, we came back and dinner was on our own. Courtney, Zach, Janice, and I went to Hong Kong Island to eat at this Mexican Restaurant. It was good but...definitely a different neighborhood. I'll let you fill in the blanks for that.
Day 8 - Today was our last day at VBS! There was a feeling of excitement and a feeling of sadness as we were ready to be done with it because of the hard work and tiredness we were feeling, but we were also very sad to see it end because we got to know the kids and volunteers really well and tonight will be our last night to see most of them. We actually won't see the ICM kids tonight because they are busy. That was sad for me because Lacey and I will be leaving Sunday morning and that would be the next time we could see them. So this was my last day getting to see those kids. They did give me their names and (almost) all of them are on facebook, so I will probably hear from them again!
Things to pray for:
1) Family Night is in 4 or so hours. Some of the parents of these kids are not Christian, so pray that they get to see the program and hear the Gospel being presented.
2) Activities tomorrow. It is whatever we want to do. Pray for safety
3) Clearwater Bay Church. Pray that they will be able to follow-up on these kids and families.
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Day 6)
Hello Everyone!
I am coming to the end of my day, but this was the only time I could really find to blog. Hopefully it won't sound to jumbled because I'm a little tired.
Today was the day we were presenting the plan of salvation. I looked over the passage about 4 times or so, and I had a good idea about what I would do. Basically what I did is I told the story from Zacchaeus' point of view. I was really nervous as several of my team members could tell. I did do drama everyday last year, but I also had time to think over it and practice last year. This was a last minute thing. I have to say though, it went very well! I had the kid's attention. I could see their eyes focused on me, and I think they were really following what I was saying. I got several compliments from different adults as well, so I think it went well. Zach presented the Gospel after I performed, and it was very clear and concise and done very well. In our classroom, Courtney was the one who explained the ABC's of becoming a Christian. He broke it down so they could understand it and used examples that were very good. We had two kids from our class talk to Zach about decision they would possibly make. We'll know more by the end of the week. Overall though it was a great day and nothing really went wrong! The only thing that was possibly a hindrance would be the weather (very very rainy) but it wasn't that big of a deal.
After VBS, we ate at the University where CBIC meets. Then we went back to the hotel. Some of the women went to the Jade Market and Zach, Courtney, and I went to the History Museum. It was great! I got several pictures. I wish I could make a day of it because there was so much information and so much to see. Being there for two hours felt like I was rushing through it. It was a great experience though. I hope to go back there again.
We just got back from dinner with some of the ICM kids and Caroline at a small Nepali restaurant. It is always great to see the kids and Caroline. The ICM is such a special place and wonderful ministry. There are a lot of ICM kids in Courtney and I's class and a lot of the kids are coming to the VBS this week, so we're excited that they are there!
Things to pray for:
1) Two more days of VBS!
2) The weather. It's tough to plan certain things when the weather is bad.
3) Strength. We don't get a whole lot of time to rest, and lack of sleep catches up with you
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
Scott
I am coming to the end of my day, but this was the only time I could really find to blog. Hopefully it won't sound to jumbled because I'm a little tired.
Today was the day we were presenting the plan of salvation. I looked over the passage about 4 times or so, and I had a good idea about what I would do. Basically what I did is I told the story from Zacchaeus' point of view. I was really nervous as several of my team members could tell. I did do drama everyday last year, but I also had time to think over it and practice last year. This was a last minute thing. I have to say though, it went very well! I had the kid's attention. I could see their eyes focused on me, and I think they were really following what I was saying. I got several compliments from different adults as well, so I think it went well. Zach presented the Gospel after I performed, and it was very clear and concise and done very well. In our classroom, Courtney was the one who explained the ABC's of becoming a Christian. He broke it down so they could understand it and used examples that were very good. We had two kids from our class talk to Zach about decision they would possibly make. We'll know more by the end of the week. Overall though it was a great day and nothing really went wrong! The only thing that was possibly a hindrance would be the weather (very very rainy) but it wasn't that big of a deal.
After VBS, we ate at the University where CBIC meets. Then we went back to the hotel. Some of the women went to the Jade Market and Zach, Courtney, and I went to the History Museum. It was great! I got several pictures. I wish I could make a day of it because there was so much information and so much to see. Being there for two hours felt like I was rushing through it. It was a great experience though. I hope to go back there again.
We just got back from dinner with some of the ICM kids and Caroline at a small Nepali restaurant. It is always great to see the kids and Caroline. The ICM is such a special place and wonderful ministry. There are a lot of ICM kids in Courtney and I's class and a lot of the kids are coming to the VBS this week, so we're excited that they are there!
Things to pray for:
1) Two more days of VBS!
2) The weather. It's tough to plan certain things when the weather is bad.
3) Strength. We don't get a whole lot of time to rest, and lack of sleep catches up with you
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
Scott
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Day 5)
Hello Everyone!
I am on a break right now before we go to the peak, so I thought I would go ahead and let you know how my day was and some ways to pray for us (and me).
Today was the second day of VBS. We had 3 more kids come to Courtney and I's class, so we had 11 today for the 5th-Preteen group! Today was a pretty tough day. It was raining this morning (and will probably rain the rest of the week) and that is tough from several different standpoints. One is that you have to re-think recreation and outdoor activities, the kids are typically more talkative and hyper, and it kind of drains your energy a little bit. I am personally having trouble trying to figure out how to effectively speak/teach to this group. I think that their English is good enough to read/write/and even communicate, but it seems like there is either something lost in translation or it is not getting through completely. It may be getting through and I just don't know it, but it just seems like they are having trouble retaining some of the information. The good thing is though we are building some good relationships with the kids and the volunteers, so I think we are gaining their trust.
The biggest thing to think about now is that tomorrow we are giving the plan of salvation. This is the hardest day of VBS. A lot of times on mission trips, this just typically seems to be the day where either a lot of different things go wrong or your attitude is just out of whack or just something hits you harder this day than on the others. I found out today that I am going to give a monologue as Zaccheus talking about what happened between Jesus and I. I am a little nervous because I just found out and I will also be telling them a story that is very important. I haven't written anything yet. I plan on reading the story several times and hopefully coming up with an outline of what I'll do. I just don't have that much time to do it...
Things to pray for:
1) VBS Team and Volunteers for tomorrow
2) My monologue
3) Kids coming to VBS
4) That even if something goes wrong, we don't let it get to us.
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
Scott
I am on a break right now before we go to the peak, so I thought I would go ahead and let you know how my day was and some ways to pray for us (and me).
Today was the second day of VBS. We had 3 more kids come to Courtney and I's class, so we had 11 today for the 5th-Preteen group! Today was a pretty tough day. It was raining this morning (and will probably rain the rest of the week) and that is tough from several different standpoints. One is that you have to re-think recreation and outdoor activities, the kids are typically more talkative and hyper, and it kind of drains your energy a little bit. I am personally having trouble trying to figure out how to effectively speak/teach to this group. I think that their English is good enough to read/write/and even communicate, but it seems like there is either something lost in translation or it is not getting through completely. It may be getting through and I just don't know it, but it just seems like they are having trouble retaining some of the information. The good thing is though we are building some good relationships with the kids and the volunteers, so I think we are gaining their trust.
The biggest thing to think about now is that tomorrow we are giving the plan of salvation. This is the hardest day of VBS. A lot of times on mission trips, this just typically seems to be the day where either a lot of different things go wrong or your attitude is just out of whack or just something hits you harder this day than on the others. I found out today that I am going to give a monologue as Zaccheus talking about what happened between Jesus and I. I am a little nervous because I just found out and I will also be telling them a story that is very important. I haven't written anything yet. I plan on reading the story several times and hopefully coming up with an outline of what I'll do. I just don't have that much time to do it...
Things to pray for:
1) VBS Team and Volunteers for tomorrow
2) My monologue
3) Kids coming to VBS
4) That even if something goes wrong, we don't let it get to us.
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
Scott
Monday, July 26, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Days 3 & 4)
Hello Everybody!
I am still on the computer that only allows a 20 minute session, but I will save a draft and continue my thought. Before I start on what happened the past couple of days, I wanted to thank those of you that have already commented through the blog/e-mail/facebook about the trip. Your support means a lot, and the prayers are definitely needed! I hope that the blog does justice to what's happening.
Day 3 - Day three was the day of our commissioning service and worship service at CBIC in Clearwater Bay. That is the church that we are partnering with for VBS. The people there are so nice. Some even remembered my name! Of course, who could forget a man as handsome as me? :-) Anyhow, the service is always a cool experience. We would sing a song and the first verse or so everyone would sing in English and then the next they would sing in Chinese...and then we would do Chinese and English together! (Obviously not together together like Chinenglish but those who knew English sang English those who knew Chinese sang Chinese). We got commissioned in the service and had to say our names, where we were serving, and what our job was in "real life." I wanted to say a Brain surgeon or something, but it's not good to lie in church. After that, Zach preached. The thing is that he would preach in English and then they would translate in Chinese. It ruins the flow and makes the message twice an long so you have to use 1/2 the content...and it's just difficult. Zach did a great job, but he said it was one of the hardest speaking engagements he has ever done in his life. Guess what? He gets to do it again next Sunday! You should probably pray for him now.
After the service, we had lunch (Dim sum...some of you know my personal feelings on this dish. If you don't, I'll tell you later). After we ate, we went on a boat ride to an outlying island where we relaxed. We then came back to the hotel, rested for 30 minutes, and went to dinner at the Spaghetti Factory. Zach and I split a pitcher of Cream Soda which we later learned was a mistake. A pitcher equaled about 5 glasses each. Did not make for a happy Scott (my clock is still off too. I woke up at 12:30 wide awake and didn't get to sleep until 2:00am and then took a shower at 5:45am because I was not getting back to sleep). But overall, it was a good day.
Day 4 - I am actually in the late afternoon of day 4 as I type this right now. It is difficult to find computer time, so I am blogging when I can. Today was our first day of VBS. I had a lot of energy until VBS was over, and then I felt like it all flowed out of me. It was a great day though. Courtney and I are leading 5th grade-Preteens. We had 8 in our class, and we have the potential to grow. We have this lady helping us whose name is Valerie, and it was wonderful. She is able to work with the girls and Courtney and I take the boys when we do small groups. It really helps. Plus, I feel more comfortable with a female talking to girls about life matters. At least girls that are preteens/teens. I didn't understand them when I was that age and I don't understand them now. There you go. Our lesson(s) went really fast (the time went by quick) but overall it was so much easier than last year because we are in a much bigger facility, have more help, and the transitions were just so smooth. I wore a cowboy hat which was a BIG hit (several people took pictures with me) and overall it went very well. Right now we are on a break, but we have no big plans for tonight. Just prepare for tomorrow, and see what happens.
Things to pray for:
1) Continued strength (Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual) for our team and volunteers at VBS. One of our members Lacey - the girl whom I flew with on the plane - has been sick for the past several days. She had horrible motion sickness, then jet lag, and then she had a case of Vertigo. She got some medicine today which should help, but it has been rough and miserable for her. Not to mention the jet lag for the other members. It's just tough adjusting to a 13 hour time difference.
2) VBS - Today we talked about "Who am I?" and tomorrow we ask the question "Does God care about me?" Pray for Courtney and Lacey as they lead the music, Zach as he leads the team and also Recreation, Mary Beth/Jacqueline/Kathleen as they lead 1st-2nd grade (they have the largest group out of us all...almost half of the kids were in that group), Allyson and Lacey as they lead 3rd and 4th, and Courney and I as we lead 5th- Preteens. Also pray for the volunteers and the church who hopes to cultivate relationships with the kids and families that come here.
3) My Group - We have 8 which is a size I like, but I also realize that we could get more or some could leave. There are some in there that struggle with their English and some that are pretty sharp so it's hard to find where the middle is to teach. I'm finding repetition and asking questions to help, but we'll see! Pray for good time management and that we hit the key points. Also pray for Valerie. She is with the church and will see these kids again and she is developing a great relationship with those girls.
I am going to leave with a few new cultural things that I experienced.
- I ate chicken feet soup. The chicken feet didn't taste like anything, but it was so annoying to spit out bones every couple of seconds.
- People here love to dress up their dogs, and I don't think any of them are neutered (at least from the place we went to the other day).
- You don't joke about Karaoke. It's serious here.
- Brown sugar with coffee is very good.
- If you see Ice cream, you better get some. It's like finding a prize in a box of cracker jacks (weird reference, but whatever)
Have a great rest of the day!
Scott
I am still on the computer that only allows a 20 minute session, but I will save a draft and continue my thought. Before I start on what happened the past couple of days, I wanted to thank those of you that have already commented through the blog/e-mail/facebook about the trip. Your support means a lot, and the prayers are definitely needed! I hope that the blog does justice to what's happening.
Day 3 - Day three was the day of our commissioning service and worship service at CBIC in Clearwater Bay. That is the church that we are partnering with for VBS. The people there are so nice. Some even remembered my name! Of course, who could forget a man as handsome as me? :-) Anyhow, the service is always a cool experience. We would sing a song and the first verse or so everyone would sing in English and then the next they would sing in Chinese...and then we would do Chinese and English together! (Obviously not together together like Chinenglish but those who knew English sang English those who knew Chinese sang Chinese). We got commissioned in the service and had to say our names, where we were serving, and what our job was in "real life." I wanted to say a Brain surgeon or something, but it's not good to lie in church. After that, Zach preached. The thing is that he would preach in English and then they would translate in Chinese. It ruins the flow and makes the message twice an long so you have to use 1/2 the content...and it's just difficult. Zach did a great job, but he said it was one of the hardest speaking engagements he has ever done in his life. Guess what? He gets to do it again next Sunday! You should probably pray for him now.
After the service, we had lunch (Dim sum...some of you know my personal feelings on this dish. If you don't, I'll tell you later). After we ate, we went on a boat ride to an outlying island where we relaxed. We then came back to the hotel, rested for 30 minutes, and went to dinner at the Spaghetti Factory. Zach and I split a pitcher of Cream Soda which we later learned was a mistake. A pitcher equaled about 5 glasses each. Did not make for a happy Scott (my clock is still off too. I woke up at 12:30 wide awake and didn't get to sleep until 2:00am and then took a shower at 5:45am because I was not getting back to sleep). But overall, it was a good day.
Day 4 - I am actually in the late afternoon of day 4 as I type this right now. It is difficult to find computer time, so I am blogging when I can. Today was our first day of VBS. I had a lot of energy until VBS was over, and then I felt like it all flowed out of me. It was a great day though. Courtney and I are leading 5th grade-Preteens. We had 8 in our class, and we have the potential to grow. We have this lady helping us whose name is Valerie, and it was wonderful. She is able to work with the girls and Courtney and I take the boys when we do small groups. It really helps. Plus, I feel more comfortable with a female talking to girls about life matters. At least girls that are preteens/teens. I didn't understand them when I was that age and I don't understand them now. There you go. Our lesson(s) went really fast (the time went by quick) but overall it was so much easier than last year because we are in a much bigger facility, have more help, and the transitions were just so smooth. I wore a cowboy hat which was a BIG hit (several people took pictures with me) and overall it went very well. Right now we are on a break, but we have no big plans for tonight. Just prepare for tomorrow, and see what happens.
Things to pray for:
1) Continued strength (Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual) for our team and volunteers at VBS. One of our members Lacey - the girl whom I flew with on the plane - has been sick for the past several days. She had horrible motion sickness, then jet lag, and then she had a case of Vertigo. She got some medicine today which should help, but it has been rough and miserable for her. Not to mention the jet lag for the other members. It's just tough adjusting to a 13 hour time difference.
2) VBS - Today we talked about "Who am I?" and tomorrow we ask the question "Does God care about me?" Pray for Courtney and Lacey as they lead the music, Zach as he leads the team and also Recreation, Mary Beth/Jacqueline/Kathleen as they lead 1st-2nd grade (they have the largest group out of us all...almost half of the kids were in that group), Allyson and Lacey as they lead 3rd and 4th, and Courney and I as we lead 5th- Preteens. Also pray for the volunteers and the church who hopes to cultivate relationships with the kids and families that come here.
3) My Group - We have 8 which is a size I like, but I also realize that we could get more or some could leave. There are some in there that struggle with their English and some that are pretty sharp so it's hard to find where the middle is to teach. I'm finding repetition and asking questions to help, but we'll see! Pray for good time management and that we hit the key points. Also pray for Valerie. She is with the church and will see these kids again and she is developing a great relationship with those girls.
I am going to leave with a few new cultural things that I experienced.
- I ate chicken feet soup. The chicken feet didn't taste like anything, but it was so annoying to spit out bones every couple of seconds.
- People here love to dress up their dogs, and I don't think any of them are neutered (at least from the place we went to the other day).
- You don't joke about Karaoke. It's serious here.
- Brown sugar with coffee is very good.
- If you see Ice cream, you better get some. It's like finding a prize in a box of cracker jacks (weird reference, but whatever)
Have a great rest of the day!
Scott
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Days 1 & 2)
Hello Everyone!
I hope this blog won't sound too rushed, but I need to get to the point quicker. The main reason is the computer I use automatically logs out every 20 minutes. So, I will try to tell the main points.
The first day is just all about survival. Getting to the airport, getting through security, catching planes, and even more fun stuff that for any of you travel know about. My experience on the planes this go around...was not fun. The last 15-20 minutes of my flight to Newark was very bumpy. Both me and Lacey were getting real sick and if we had to be on there for like 5 more minutes, I'm sure the people on the plane would not have appreciated what would happen next. We did get to Newark and caught our flight on-time, but then came the 15 hour 50 minutes plane ride to Hong Kong. It goes pretty fast if you watch movies and such, but we ended up having a lot of turbulence at points. At the end of the day I had two pepcids and two dramamines and I was still feeling sick. The important thing though is I got here safe and sound and I was even able to eat some good chinese food later on that night. So all is well that ends well!
Day 2- Today was good because we were able to set up for VBS. We have G-R-E-A-T facilities this year. We are meeting at Evangil College and have full classrooms and plenty of space. It will be a great environment to teach in and just be with the kids. We got our room set up for 5th-Preteens, and I think it looks really nice. The people in my group saw my C personality mixed with my OCD/anal retentiveness. I am who I am. I might as well just embrace it! After that, we went and took a tour of a buddhist temple as well as a christian retreat center. The Christian retreat center was really cool, but it was sad at the Buddhist temple. The saddest part was they had shrines that contained pictures (and the ashes) of deceased family members and you could burn incense and pray to them. There is a lot of spiritual darkness here that people are just looking for anything to help them spiritually.
I would go more into this, but frankly I have less than seven minutes and there are other people that need to use this. I am going to make an outline next time so I can go into more detail.
Please Pray For -
1. Zach as he preaches tomorrow with someone translating his message
2. Strength for the team as we continue to battle jet-leg
3. The volunteers that are working with us.
4. The kids coming to VBS
5. That all the planning will come together and there will be no big problems.
Thanks, and I will blog again soon!
Scott
I hope this blog won't sound too rushed, but I need to get to the point quicker. The main reason is the computer I use automatically logs out every 20 minutes. So, I will try to tell the main points.
The first day is just all about survival. Getting to the airport, getting through security, catching planes, and even more fun stuff that for any of you travel know about. My experience on the planes this go around...was not fun. The last 15-20 minutes of my flight to Newark was very bumpy. Both me and Lacey were getting real sick and if we had to be on there for like 5 more minutes, I'm sure the people on the plane would not have appreciated what would happen next. We did get to Newark and caught our flight on-time, but then came the 15 hour 50 minutes plane ride to Hong Kong. It goes pretty fast if you watch movies and such, but we ended up having a lot of turbulence at points. At the end of the day I had two pepcids and two dramamines and I was still feeling sick. The important thing though is I got here safe and sound and I was even able to eat some good chinese food later on that night. So all is well that ends well!
Day 2- Today was good because we were able to set up for VBS. We have G-R-E-A-T facilities this year. We are meeting at Evangil College and have full classrooms and plenty of space. It will be a great environment to teach in and just be with the kids. We got our room set up for 5th-Preteens, and I think it looks really nice. The people in my group saw my C personality mixed with my OCD/anal retentiveness. I am who I am. I might as well just embrace it! After that, we went and took a tour of a buddhist temple as well as a christian retreat center. The Christian retreat center was really cool, but it was sad at the Buddhist temple. The saddest part was they had shrines that contained pictures (and the ashes) of deceased family members and you could burn incense and pray to them. There is a lot of spiritual darkness here that people are just looking for anything to help them spiritually.
I would go more into this, but frankly I have less than seven minutes and there are other people that need to use this. I am going to make an outline next time so I can go into more detail.
Please Pray For -
1. Zach as he preaches tomorrow with someone translating his message
2. Strength for the team as we continue to battle jet-leg
3. The volunteers that are working with us.
4. The kids coming to VBS
5. That all the planning will come together and there will be no big problems.
Thanks, and I will blog again soon!
Scott
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Hong Kong 2010 (Pre-trip Blog)
Hey Everyone!
I didn't do this last year, but thought I would do it this year. When I went on the mission trips to St. John, we would do a Pre-trip blog all the time. Basically it was to say what you were expecting to get out of this trip, what you think God is trying to tell you, and what to pray for...or something like that. I'm sure you can find my old blogs and see about it if you are interested. For this one, I just want to share my thoughts about the trip and then leave you with some stuff that you can pray for my team and for myself. Does that sound alright? I hope so, because I'm going to do it anyway!
Well...it's finally here. After months of will I won't I, coming to terms with the decision and possible implications, and just all the stuff that has been going on with me from January to now, I am going to leave for Hong Kong in less than 12 hours. It almost seems a little unreal. Yet I'm sitting in my room with two packed bags, a carry-on, and listening to the sounds of my keyboard as I write about the upcoming trip. So, how do I feel? Other than the fact that I feel like I'm missing something (which happens on practically every trip), I feel nervous and excited. I feel mostly nervous about the plane ride. Lacey and I are leaving earlier than everyone else and we are going to meet them in Hong Kong (because we're coming home earlier). I don't like the fact that I'll be away from my whole team, but it will be all right. Will come to prayer requests later! I do feel pretty prepared for it, and I know I will have LOTS of time on the plane to get ready as well, so it should be good. Although you can't always prepare yourselves for what will happen because anyone who has ever been on a mission trip can tell you...anything can happen.
For those of you who are reading this, I am going to list some things that you can keep in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you, and I will blog again as soon as I can!
Scott
I didn't do this last year, but thought I would do it this year. When I went on the mission trips to St. John, we would do a Pre-trip blog all the time. Basically it was to say what you were expecting to get out of this trip, what you think God is trying to tell you, and what to pray for...or something like that. I'm sure you can find my old blogs and see about it if you are interested. For this one, I just want to share my thoughts about the trip and then leave you with some stuff that you can pray for my team and for myself. Does that sound alright? I hope so, because I'm going to do it anyway!
Well...it's finally here. After months of will I won't I, coming to terms with the decision and possible implications, and just all the stuff that has been going on with me from January to now, I am going to leave for Hong Kong in less than 12 hours. It almost seems a little unreal. Yet I'm sitting in my room with two packed bags, a carry-on, and listening to the sounds of my keyboard as I write about the upcoming trip. So, how do I feel? Other than the fact that I feel like I'm missing something (which happens on practically every trip), I feel nervous and excited. I feel mostly nervous about the plane ride. Lacey and I are leaving earlier than everyone else and we are going to meet them in Hong Kong (because we're coming home earlier). I don't like the fact that I'll be away from my whole team, but it will be all right. Will come to prayer requests later! I do feel pretty prepared for it, and I know I will have LOTS of time on the plane to get ready as well, so it should be good. Although you can't always prepare yourselves for what will happen because anyone who has ever been on a mission trip can tell you...anything can happen.
For those of you who are reading this, I am going to list some things that you can keep in your thoughts and prayers.
- The Plane Ride - Pray that we make the connections on time, pray for the flight attendants and the pilots, pray that we may use the time on the plane for prep. and relaxation, and that we all meet up in Hong Kong
- The Team - Pray that relationships will continue to build as we work together. Pray for individual strength as well as group strength.
- The Volunteers - We have several volunteers that will help us at VBS this year. Pray for our relationship with them, their relationships with the kids, and communication between all of us to be effective!
- The Kids - We expect there to possibly be over a hundred kids there, so pray that their eyes and ears will be open next week and that we may build relationships with them.
- The Church - The church we are working with there is putting this on as well as hosting us. Pray for their pastor, congregation, and that they may be a light in the Hong Kong Community.
Thank you, and I will blog again as soon as I can!
Scott
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Defining Moments - Summer Camp 2010
Hello Everyone! I hope that everything is treating you well. I am still recovering a little bit from camp, but I wanted to take a moment and share what went on, what I learned, and things like that. It was a great week (technically 5 days) and I think that students, leaders, and everyone involved had a great experience and grew in their faith. So without further adieu...let's talk about camp!First off, camp was a lot different this year. Instead of going to Double-Head Resort in Alabama like we usually do, we went to Panama City Beach, FL and stayed at a Fuge camp. It was a shared experience we did the teaching and worship, while the Fuge staff did the recreation and late nights. It was an interesting thing where we were jammed between two Fuge camps. I think there are Pros and Cons for the different locations, but we had a great experience there.
We had five different themes for camp: Love, Obedience, Sacrifice, Integrity, and Commitment. We talked about the stories of Jonah, Daniel (with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego), Hannah, Nehemiah, and Jeremiah. Through study, quiet time, and worship they were able to dig deeper into what it means to live out those qualities of a Christian.
I had two responsibilities. I was a teacher for 9th-10th grade (I got to co-teach with one of my really good friends Philip Hood so it was really cool) and I was in charge of a room full of 7th graders (Let's say, "No sleep and stinky on three!"). Joking aside, it was very good. It reminded me of something Pastor Mike said. When Pastor Mike was talking to his dad about his little brother, his dad told him this, "Before your little brother was born, I wasn't sure how I could love him as much as I loved you. But when he was born, God made my heart bigger." That's how I felt with the students in my Bible Study and in my room. I have been a Lifegroup leader of the same group of guys for almost 5 years now. We all have a very special relationship and my focus, attention, prayer, and commitment goes toward that group. My thoughts were along the lines of, "I don't know if I could love these 9th/10th graders and these 7th graders as much as I do my old Lifegroup." But, I had a similar experience to Mr. Glenn. God made my heart bigger. Which is a good thing because I don't think I could have survived the 7th graders without it!
It's hard to sum up what I have learned in camp or what I took away from it. I'll sum it up the same way I did for my 9th-10th graders.
- This camp reminded me how big God is and how small and insignificant I am - I learned this several different ways. First was through worship. We all finally got to a point where we didn't care who saw us or what we should or shouldn't be doing, and we all just focused on God and responded. I really saw this on the last two days of camp. People had their hands or arms raised, they were on their knees or chairs, jumping and dancing or sitting and reflecting, some were even physically crying out to God. Normally I would question this but I saw the heart and focus. It wasn't for each other, it was for God. We felt the spirit move and students/leaders were part of something bigger than themselves. The speaker, worship leaders, and even our ministers said that in all their years of ministry, that they haven't experienced a group respond the way this one did. God is up to something big! Second, it helped to reassure me of
who is in control. I'm at a point right now personally where things aren't really black and white. I have been applying for teaching jobs, but I haven't gotten any interviews or anything. There are some that are reviewing my resume', but nothing so far. Luckily I have employment and probably still will if this doesn't work out, but it is still frustrating. The good thing is that I know God has a plan for me. I'm sure that wherever I am and whatever I am doing, things will work out as long as I remember what's important.
- This camp also got me real excited about the future generation. When we think of students in this generation (Millennials as they are called) we typically don't think of positive things. We may see a culture losing some aspect of morals, respect, and even common sense. Yet when I have talked with these students, seen their leadership displayed, and seen how they are really intent on making their faith authentic, I am very encouraged. I think that this group we have coming up is tired of the fake and really wants to change direction. The students respectively pour into the students below them and it shows. I just hope that some of them return from college and become adult leaders. That's when the real fun starts!
Thank you all for reading, and I hope you have a great rest of the day!
P.S. If you would like to help me with my mission trip to Hong Kong, look at the post below to find out how!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
What happens to a grape when an elephant steps on it?
It lets out a little Whine! HA HA HA! I slay myself. I'll be here all week, ladies and gentleman! Tip your waiters and waitresses and remember to vote!
I was trying to think of a good way to start off my blog. I thought I would start off with a joke because it would draw the attention in and also it may provide a good segue into what I am about to write. I haven't really been updating lately because there is not much to update. I am still looking for a teaching position, and I haven't gotten any bites so far. I don't know if it's because jobs are getting tougher to find or I haven't been doing enough...it just is what it is. I'll continue and keep you posted. In the mean time, I am working and hanging out with friends and family when I can.
Something I also wanted to say is that I have decided that I am going to Hong Kong again this summer for a mission trip. I have been working and saving, and I really want to go and think that I should go on this trip. There are about eight of us going, so it will be very different. It's been a very tough decision for me because of the job search, time, and money, but I feel this is the right decision. Your prayers would be appreciated.
Also if you would like to help me by donating some money, I have some information for you. If you go to the Missions Payment Center you can donate money. Any amount would be appreciated and would help a great deal. Just be sure to select the Hong Kong mission journey and under "Journey Participant Name or General Gift" type in Scott Lemons.
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
I was trying to think of a good way to start off my blog. I thought I would start off with a joke because it would draw the attention in and also it may provide a good segue into what I am about to write. I haven't really been updating lately because there is not much to update. I am still looking for a teaching position, and I haven't gotten any bites so far. I don't know if it's because jobs are getting tougher to find or I haven't been doing enough...it just is what it is. I'll continue and keep you posted. In the mean time, I am working and hanging out with friends and family when I can.
Something I also wanted to say is that I have decided that I am going to Hong Kong again this summer for a mission trip. I have been working and saving, and I really want to go and think that I should go on this trip. There are about eight of us going, so it will be very different. It's been a very tough decision for me because of the job search, time, and money, but I feel this is the right decision. Your prayers would be appreciated.
Also if you would like to help me by donating some money, I have some information for you. If you go to the Missions Payment Center you can donate money. Any amount would be appreciated and would help a great deal. Just be sure to select the Hong Kong mission journey and under "Journey Participant Name or General Gift" type in Scott Lemons.
Thanks, and have a great rest of the day!
Thursday, April 08, 2010
The Shadow knows
I thought it was time for an update on what's been going on with me. I suppose I will start with work and from there just say whatever comes to my head.
We are finally moved into the new office! It was a very long and difficult journey to get there, but we did it. I spent the past several weeks emptying cabinets, sorting through folders, packing boxes, transporting machines, setting up machines, and transporting various items, and also physically moving stuff. It was a very tiring couple of weeks. The new office looks great and everything is going well. The commute is longer...15 minutes more. It's okay though. I am thankful that I have a job, I enjoy working there, I have wonderful bosses, and I feel like I am contributing. I am still preparing for hopeful upcoming interviews for the next school year. I'm pretty confident, but I also feel like a guppy about to dive into the ocean. Growing up, what can you do?
The good thing about work is I have been able to listen to various Podcast. I have downloaded several sermons from Kairos, Brentwood Baptist, John MacArthur, and Timothy Keller. They have been great to listen to and it keeps my mind occupied while I'm doing work that at times...doesn't challenge my brain. I have also started listening to Old Time Radio programs such as, "The Shadow." They are very exciting. It's funny because there were some episodes where I was like, "How is he going to get out of this?!?" It's funny because you know he is going to get out of it and that everything is going to turn out okay. It's almost the same feeling I get when I watch a Rocky movie and watch him fight. I mean, Rocky is going to win. We all know that. So why get worried?
That was a nice little tangent. In other news, the Lemons family has started on Nutrisystem! So far I have lost 8 pounds! I don't think I'm losing the weight off my body. I think it is just re-distributing itself. The food is pretty good. Breakfasts are my favorite. Dinner is more misses than hits. Lunch is okay. I feel like I am eating ALL THE TIME though. The human body is amazing. The good thing from this all is I feel that I am already learning how to eat healthy. Even though I would like to have some dark chocolate ice cream poured on top of a Hardees thickburger. Don't judge me!
I best be going now. I hope you all have a great rest of the day!
We are finally moved into the new office! It was a very long and difficult journey to get there, but we did it. I spent the past several weeks emptying cabinets, sorting through folders, packing boxes, transporting machines, setting up machines, and transporting various items, and also physically moving stuff. It was a very tiring couple of weeks. The new office looks great and everything is going well. The commute is longer...15 minutes more. It's okay though. I am thankful that I have a job, I enjoy working there, I have wonderful bosses, and I feel like I am contributing. I am still preparing for hopeful upcoming interviews for the next school year. I'm pretty confident, but I also feel like a guppy about to dive into the ocean. Growing up, what can you do?
The good thing about work is I have been able to listen to various Podcast. I have downloaded several sermons from Kairos, Brentwood Baptist, John MacArthur, and Timothy Keller. They have been great to listen to and it keeps my mind occupied while I'm doing work that at times...doesn't challenge my brain. I have also started listening to Old Time Radio programs such as, "The Shadow." They are very exciting. It's funny because there were some episodes where I was like, "How is he going to get out of this?!?" It's funny because you know he is going to get out of it and that everything is going to turn out okay. It's almost the same feeling I get when I watch a Rocky movie and watch him fight. I mean, Rocky is going to win. We all know that. So why get worried?
That was a nice little tangent. In other news, the Lemons family has started on Nutrisystem! So far I have lost 8 pounds! I don't think I'm losing the weight off my body. I think it is just re-distributing itself. The food is pretty good. Breakfasts are my favorite. Dinner is more misses than hits. Lunch is okay. I feel like I am eating ALL THE TIME though. The human body is amazing. The good thing from this all is I feel that I am already learning how to eat healthy. Even though I would like to have some dark chocolate ice cream poured on top of a Hardees thickburger. Don't judge me!
I best be going now. I hope you all have a great rest of the day!
Friday, February 26, 2010
Anvil Retreat, Work, and Olympics
Hey Everyone!
It has been almost a month since I posted last. The main reason being that I really didn't have anything to blog about. Now, I do have something to blog about! I'm going to start with Anvil Retreat that the guys in our youth group took this last week.
We had our annual Anvil retreat this past week. A common theme of this retreat includes smashing things with a big mallet, eating lots of meat, and talking about what it means to be a man. This past week was different. Instead of students leaving the retreat talking about the amazing meat and smashing, they talked about how they felt, christian community, and changes. So what happened? Well, we did a lot of things different. We didn't have any curriculum. As a matter of fact, us leaders didn't really have to do much except show up, participate, and step in when needed. There were two guy speakers for the weekend and they used a lot of symbolism, activities, engaged the students, and had students and adults participate in activities that helped encourage community and development. We all "checked in" with how we were feeling (anger, sadness, fear, or joy), and we looked each other in the eye and were brutally honest in answering the tough questions. In short, this retreat was about being true men. The exciting part is this is just part one. I think that we'll have a lot more retreats like this in the future.
In other news, I have been working. Mainly my work for the past couple weeks has been proofreading and entering data. It's not the most exciting thing, but it needs to be done. Since I am a "C" personality and details are my thing, it has been a little enjoyable for me. That sounds really nerdy, but it is what it is. I have been listening to a couple of podcasts. Some from my home church of Brentwood Baptist and some from John MacArthur on his Grace to You Ministry Podcast. I have also downloaded Steve Martin's new album, "The Crow" and have been listening to that. It is really good!
I have been satisfied with the Olympics. I have enjoyed Speed Skating, Skiing, Snowboarding, and even Ice Skating! I am proud of how America has been doing. It will be pretty awesome if we win the medal count...for the first time! I don't know what I am going to do without the Olympics. The Olympics helped me get my sports craving satisfied when NFL ended. I guess now I will just have to get really involved in March Madness. I might need to get involved in a competition or pool somewhere so I will become invested in it.
Anyway, I hope you all have a great rest of the day!
It has been almost a month since I posted last. The main reason being that I really didn't have anything to blog about. Now, I do have something to blog about! I'm going to start with Anvil Retreat that the guys in our youth group took this last week.
We had our annual Anvil retreat this past week. A common theme of this retreat includes smashing things with a big mallet, eating lots of meat, and talking about what it means to be a man. This past week was different. Instead of students leaving the retreat talking about the amazing meat and smashing, they talked about how they felt, christian community, and changes. So what happened? Well, we did a lot of things different. We didn't have any curriculum. As a matter of fact, us leaders didn't really have to do much except show up, participate, and step in when needed. There were two guy speakers for the weekend and they used a lot of symbolism, activities, engaged the students, and had students and adults participate in activities that helped encourage community and development. We all "checked in" with how we were feeling (anger, sadness, fear, or joy), and we looked each other in the eye and were brutally honest in answering the tough questions. In short, this retreat was about being true men. The exciting part is this is just part one. I think that we'll have a lot more retreats like this in the future.
In other news, I have been working. Mainly my work for the past couple weeks has been proofreading and entering data. It's not the most exciting thing, but it needs to be done. Since I am a "C" personality and details are my thing, it has been a little enjoyable for me. That sounds really nerdy, but it is what it is. I have been listening to a couple of podcasts. Some from my home church of Brentwood Baptist and some from John MacArthur on his Grace to You Ministry Podcast. I have also downloaded Steve Martin's new album, "The Crow" and have been listening to that. It is really good!
I have been satisfied with the Olympics. I have enjoyed Speed Skating, Skiing, Snowboarding, and even Ice Skating! I am proud of how America has been doing. It will be pretty awesome if we win the medal count...for the first time! I don't know what I am going to do without the Olympics. The Olympics helped me get my sports craving satisfied when NFL ended. I guess now I will just have to get really involved in March Madness. I might need to get involved in a competition or pool somewhere so I will become invested in it.
Anyway, I hope you all have a great rest of the day!
Friday, January 29, 2010
One of the coolest books I've read in a while
Hey Everyone! This was one of the coolest books I have read in a while. This book was so enlightening and fun to read that as soon as I was done reading it I said to myself, "I have to teach this. I have to teach this." My Lifegroup at church got to hear a small tidbit of it. I could have taught for another hour, but they probably would have tied me up or text death threats if I went over the allotted time, so I couldn't go as in depth as I wanted to go.
My intention of writing this post is basically because this book excited me and I wanted to share it with someone. Of the thousands of people that read my blog, maybe someone will like it :-)
Growing up Baptist, I have heard the story of the Prodigal Son many times. As a matter of fact, images of the animated video still run through my head every time I think about this story. After reading this book, I have a totally different perspective on it. I realized how important this story is concerning God/Sin/Repentance as well as how controversial it was in context with that day and age. If I could go back in time, I want to be there during those 5-10 minutes when Jesus told this story. After all it was a little over a month after hearing this story that the Pharisees decided they needed to kill Jesus. Why was this story so controversial?
John MacArthur said something very interesting about sin. He wrote:
"Sinners come in Two Basic Varieties. Some are straightforward and intrepid in their evildoing, and they don't really care who sees what they do. Invariably, their besetting sin is pride - the kind of pride that is seen in an undue love for oneself and uncontrollable lusts for self-indulgent pleasures. At the other end of the spectrum are secretive sinners, who prefer to sin when they think no one else is looking. They try to mask their more obvious sins in various ways - often with the pretense of religion. Their besetting sin is also pride, but it's the kind of pride that manifests itself in hypocrisy."
We know the story about how the son rebelled against his father, took pleasure in prodigal living, lost everything, realized his plight, remembered the father's compassion, pleaded the father for forgiveness, and was then was restored to new life. What we tend to overlook is the elder brother. The elder brother didn't delight in his brother becoming alive again. He didn't join in the celebration...he got upset with the father. He attacked the virtue, the integrity, and character of his own loving father. The elder son acted as if he would be happier if the younger son was dead. He was full of demands and devoid of any understanding. The elder son should have been the role model - but he was far from it. Do you see the contrast of the elder son to the Pharisees? The parable remained unresolved, but we know what would have happened next.
What can we take from this story? John MacArthur ends this story saying:
"The invitation to be part of the great celebration banquet is still open to all...and it doesn't matter whether you are an open sinner like the Prodigal Son, a secret one like his elder brother, or someone with characteristics from each type. If you know someone who is still estranged from God, Christ urges you to acknowledge your guilt, admit your own spiritual poverty, embrace your heavenly Father, and be reconciled to Him (2 Corinthians 5:20)."
If you would like to read the story again, it's found in Luke 15:11-32.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Life is like a box of chocolates
Forrest Gump is one of my favorite movies. The thing I always thought interesting was whenever he was asked if he was stupid he would say, "Stupid is as stupid does." So, let's look at things this way. If life is like a box of chocolates (you never know what you're going to get), and stupid is as stupid does, what does that mean to us right now? Or to make it more personal, what does it mean to me?
As you may know, I graduated close to a month ago on December 19th. I went on a cruise, I got back home, and slowly have been thinking about my last 4.5 years, what's to come, and what is happening right now in the present. I am not substitute teaching (may not be...we'll see), I don't have any interim positions, and the real hiring for most school systems doesn't start for a couple of months. I got my diploma and a letter from my university telling me that I have completed everything necessary for my license, and it is currently at the state department getting processed. I am going to apply at Williamson County but lately I have been thinking about Rutherford County as well. I suppose it depends on who is hiring and what may make a good fit between the school and what I have to offer.
As far as what I have been doing, I have been helping out where I can lately. I've also read several books. My book study finally finished J.I. Packer's Knowing God (Shout out to Michael), and I have also read John MacArthur's The Truth War, Barbara Kingsolver's The Bean Trees, and I am currently reading another John MacArthur book, A Tale of Two Sons.
On a different note, I am also pretty excited about what Phillip and I are going to do for Lifegroups this semester. We have found out what they want to learn, and we're going to try to break it up and teach it. This will be good because it's something that they will be interested in and we will be too. Our church is also doing some really awesome things this year. The Church at Station Hill will be up and running soon, we will have more focus on discipleship/evangelism church-wide, and I think things will take a different turn.
Binks is crying at me right now, so I think I need to wrap this up. As a matter of fact when I just wrote that sentence, he shook his paw at me and knocked my computer over. Silly dog.
I hope that when you open your box of chocolates, that you will enjoy the experience of eating chocolate despite what flavor you get. Have a good one!
As you may know, I graduated close to a month ago on December 19th. I went on a cruise, I got back home, and slowly have been thinking about my last 4.5 years, what's to come, and what is happening right now in the present. I am not substitute teaching (may not be...we'll see), I don't have any interim positions, and the real hiring for most school systems doesn't start for a couple of months. I got my diploma and a letter from my university telling me that I have completed everything necessary for my license, and it is currently at the state department getting processed. I am going to apply at Williamson County but lately I have been thinking about Rutherford County as well. I suppose it depends on who is hiring and what may make a good fit between the school and what I have to offer.
As far as what I have been doing, I have been helping out where I can lately. I've also read several books. My book study finally finished J.I. Packer's Knowing God (Shout out to Michael), and I have also read John MacArthur's The Truth War, Barbara Kingsolver's The Bean Trees, and I am currently reading another John MacArthur book, A Tale of Two Sons.
On a different note, I am also pretty excited about what Phillip and I are going to do for Lifegroups this semester. We have found out what they want to learn, and we're going to try to break it up and teach it. This will be good because it's something that they will be interested in and we will be too. Our church is also doing some really awesome things this year. The Church at Station Hill will be up and running soon, we will have more focus on discipleship/evangelism church-wide, and I think things will take a different turn.
Binks is crying at me right now, so I think I need to wrap this up. As a matter of fact when I just wrote that sentence, he shook his paw at me and knocked my computer over. Silly dog.
I hope that when you open your box of chocolates, that you will enjoy the experience of eating chocolate despite what flavor you get. Have a good one!
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