Tectonic Shift

So, I watch the history channel, a lot. There, I said it. I am a nerd. But, being a nerd can come in handy.

A couple of days ago I was watching 'How the world was made'. This particular episode was exploring the Marianas trench and the Western Pacific Ridge. It discussed how the ridge was expanding at the rate of about 3 inches per year and that the trench essential 'ate' that same amount of the earths crust during that time. So, instead of the earth constantly expanding and the entire balance of nature being upset. There is homeostasis.

Why should we care?

Well, I was struck with the great care that God took in designing the earth. How that everything was considered and every detail was accounted for. It is the same for us. There is nothing that God has not considered and nothing left unaccounted. He will accomplish what He intends in us. Our part is simply to trust Him.

He can be trusted.

Different folks...

So, I'm reading this book (yes, I can read) Religiously Transmitted Diseases. In chapter 4 the author brings up the fact that when Adam and Eve sinned they didn't cover their hands, which they had used to commit the sin, or their mouths, which were also used. They covered the parts of themselves that were different from each other. Since that time, he says, we have continued to try and cover what is different, what might make us inferior. We go through our lives thinking that we are the only ones struggling with our particular weakness. So, the person who overspends hides their debt until it overwhelms them, the one who struggles with lust keeps it hidden until they find themselves consumed by sexual addiction, and the proud hide behind a veil of false humility until their self-righteousness alienates them from their Saviour and those who need Him.
Perhaps if we actually practiced confession, became honest with God and one another, and uncovered the truth that we all are sinners God's trancendance could be seen. Maybe it is in our weakness that He is strong. See, if we are all 'uncovered' there is no room to boast, no pride to be had, because we are all a mess and our only hope is Jesus.
Maybe, just maybe, if we uncover our undeniable need for Him we will also uncover the absolute wonder of His grace, the incredible strength that He gives by His Spirit, and the hope that can change the world.

God, destroy my pride.

a cautionary tale

There is a song that's been in my head a lot lately (I Still Do by Reckless Kelly). It really sums up how I've been feeling about my wife. Its about a guy who hasn't told or shown his girl how much he loves her in a while and he wants her to know that he still does. We've been super busy for the last several months and I wanted to play the song for her and remind her just how crazy I am about her. So, I cue up the ipod, hand her the earbuds, and press play. About a minute into the song I get a call from the other room, "Why does this remind you of me?" Well, I must have pressed the button an extra time because instead of hearing this lovely song about how I still love her she hears.....


I Can Drink Any Woman Pretty

Not good.

The moral of the story is, always double check.
By the way, she laughed and then I played the song I intended for her to hear. All is well.

experiencing grace

Have you ever felt the weight of mercy? I felt it this week as I led woship at church. I'm not sure if you know what I mean by that, but it's the best way I can think to describe it. It just felt heavy; the enormity of it. It is a gift that only humans are priveledged to receive. The angels worship God because He is awesome and powerful, as do we. However, there is an aspect of our worship that the angels cannot comprehend. They do not know what it means to be fallen and have the Father call them back in love. Amazing! It just struck me in a new way this week. It is unique to our relationship with God. No other being in all of creation shares that bond.

Hmmm....

HOT Fest 2

I just wanted to say how great I thought everyone did with HOT Fest.  All of you hard work will not be forgotten.  We were able to raise some much needed funds for people in need.  The bands were great! And, it was lots of fun, even though I was exhausted!  

Remember, this is just a starting point.  It will only get better from here.  

I know that many people will be blessed by what you've done.  

"Unto the least of these..."

Thanks 

Todd

HOT Fest

The Bridge is hosting a benefit concert for LINK (Lawrence Interdenominational Nutritional Kitchen) and Habitat For Humanity Sept. 7th @ 2pm.  Five bands plus acoustic entertainment between band sets.  It should be a great time for a great cause.  Help feed the hungry and provide housing for people in need in Lawrence.  For more info follow the link on the blog title.  Thanks.

Big Questions

I am beginning a teaching series on the "big questions".  Please post the questions that you think people are asking about Jesus, spirituality, religion, and life.  It will be a big help in deciding what questions to address.  I know this is more of a bulletin, but if you could help it would be great.  Also, post any thoughts in your reply.

I had almost forgotten.. ok I had

I had completely forgotten that I had this blog!  I started blogging on myspace and used it primarily for the last while.  I think I should come back and update everyone here on the goings on.  I'll be adding content soon.  thanks.