Friday, December 31, 2010

Daily Read December 31, 2010

Hebrews 4:14-16 (New International Version, ©2010)

  14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Daily Read December 30, 2010

Hebrews 4:12 (New International Version, ©2010)

 12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.


Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Daily Read December 28, 2010

Philippians 4:7-8 (New International Version, ©2010)

7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.


Monday, December 27, 2010

Daily Read December 27, 2010

Philippians 2:5-11 (New International Version, ©2010)

 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
 6 Who, being in very nature God,
   did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
   by taking the very nature of a servant,
   being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
   he humbled himself
   by becoming obedient to death—
      even death on a cross!
 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
   and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
   in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
   to the glory of God the Father.


Sunday, December 26, 2010

Bible reading tools


This morning at North Terrace, I preached about the importance of having a regular Bible reading habit. 

It's amazing that in the midst of technological world in which the Bible is so readily available that we as Christians spend so little time reading God's Word. 

For centuries, Christians longed to have their own copy of the Holy Scriptures.  But they couldn't have them.  One, because they weren't available but also because the church leadership didn't think they could handle them.

We live in a different world. 
You can readily get a copy of the Scriptures. 
You can find multiple tools to help you. 

That's where this blog post is coming from. 
Of all the tools for Bible reading, there are two that I would recommend... from the same source.

YouVersion is the place to go. 
First, their online tool is amazing!  (YouVersion online) They have a ton of translations... including the popular ones like the New International Version and New Living Translation.  They have a ton of reading plans... plans for beginners... plans for experts... plans that read chronologically... plans that read straight through.  Plenty to choose from.





The second tool follows along with this, YouVersion has a mobile app that is top-notch.  It's free to download for a variety of different platforms... including iPods/Touch/Phone.  (Check it out HERE in the iTunes store)  This syncs up with the online tool to help you keep up with your reading plan.  Plus, they are adding new features all the time.

If you are looking for a couple of tools to help keep you on track for Bible reading in the new year, this is a great place to start!!!

Jim


Daily Read December 26, 2010

Matthew 2:1-11 (New International Version, ©2010)

  1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”  3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:
 6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
   are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
   who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
 7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”
 9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.


Saturday, December 25, 2010

Daily Read December 25, 2010

Luke 2:8-20 (New International Version, ©2010)

 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
   and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.


Friday, December 24, 2010

Daily Read December 24, 2010

Luke 2:6-7 (New International Version, ©2010)

6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.


Thursday, December 23, 2010

Christmas Eve at North Terrace!!!

I am looking forward to Christmas Eve tomorrow night.  And not just because it's Christmas Eve.

For the last several years, Jackie and I haven't been home (where we're living) on Christmas Eve or Christmas.

Tomorrow night: We will be at the Christmas Eve service at North Terrace.  In five years living in Illinois, unfortunately we were never home... always on the road to Ohio or Pennsylvania.  This year, we'll be home!

And I'm really excited!!! Christmas Eve services are at 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm!  Come and join us!

(By the way: Danny was interviewed for the Times Recorder the other day.  You can check out the story HERE!  Great interview Danny!!!!) 

I'm looking forward to waking up in my own bed on Christmas morning.

Then I preach on the 26th!!! So don't get so overdosed with presents that you don't make it to church.

Jim

Daily Read December 23, 2010

Luke 2:1-5 (New International Version, ©2010)

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.  4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.


Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Daily Read December 22, 2010

Matthew 1:18-25 (New International Version, ©2010)

  18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.  20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).
 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.


Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Santa Went Down to Georgia- Rockband



Another fabulous North Point video...

Enjoy!

Jim

Check it out HERE!



Daily Read December 21, 2010

Luke 1:46-55 (New International Version, ©2010)

Mary’s Song
 46 And Mary said:    “My soul glorifies the Lord
 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful
   of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
   holy is his name.
50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,
   from generation to generation.
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
   he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
   but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
   but has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
   remembering to be merciful
55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,
   just as he promised our ancestors.”


Monday, December 20, 2010

THE DIGITAL STORY OF THE NATIVITY




Love this!!!
We showed it last night at Awake!!!

Such fun!

Jim

Check it out HERE!


Daily Read December 20, 2010

Luke 1:26-38 (New International Version, ©2010)

  26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”  29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”
 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.”
 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.


Saturday, December 18, 2010

Free TobyMac!!

Do you like free music??
Do you like TobyMac???

If both answers were 'yes,' then hurry over HERE and pick up Toby's Christmas song for FREE!!!

Enjoy!
Merry Christmas!!!


Daily Read December 18, 2010

Colossians 3:15-17 (New International Version, ©2010)

 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.


Friday, December 17, 2010

Daily Read December 17, 2010

Colossians 3:1-3 (New International Version, ©2010)

1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Daily Read December 16, 2010

Colossians 2:13-15 (New International Version, ©2010)

 13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Straight No Chaser - 12 Days of Christmas




A fun non-traditional take on a Christmas classic... or a couple...

Jim

Check it out HERE!


Baby Mackenson - Hands and Feet Project, Haiti - "Build Us Back"



An amazing video from Mark Stuart (Audio Adrenaline) and the Hands and Feet Project in Haiti!!! Amazing!

Jim

Check it out HERE



Daily Read December 15, 2010

Colossians 2:8-10 (New International Version, ©2010)

 8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
 9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, 10 and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.


Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Daily Read December 14, 2010

Colossians 1:15-17 (New International Version, ©2010)

  15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Daily Read December 12, 2010

Romans 12:9-13 (New International Version, ©2010)

  9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Daily Read December 11, 2010

Romans 12:1-2 (New International Version, ©2010)

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Daily Read December 10, 2010

Romans 8:37-39 (New International Version, ©2010)

 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


Thursday, December 09, 2010

Transformers 3 Official Movie Trailer Teaser [Full HD] Dark of the Moon



The original video that I posted was pulled off YouTube for some reason.

So HERE's another!

Jim

Can't wait!!!



Daily Read December 9, 2010

Romans 6:23 (New International Version, ©2010)

23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.


Wednesday, December 08, 2010

Star Wars meets The Princess Bride - The Chatty Duelists




Pretty fun!!!

JC


North Point's iBand



This is great!!!

Jim

Check it out HERE!




Daily Read December 8, 2010

Romans 5:6-8 (New International Version, ©2010)

 6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.


Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Daily Read December 7, 2010

2 Corinthians 4:7-10 (New International Version, ©2010)

 7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.


Monday, December 06, 2010

Daily Read December 6, 2010

2 Corinthians 2:14-17 (New International Version, ©2010)

 14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? 17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.


Sunday, December 05, 2010

New 5k PR!!!

I have a new PR in the 5k!!!

Saturday was my latest 5k race.  Additionally, it was Jackie's first.  I was shooting for two goals.  First, I was hoping to set a new PR (personal record).  Second, I was hoping to win the Clydesdale division, since it was the first time that I had ever entered as a Clydesdale (over 200 pounds).

I succeeded at the first:  My previous PR was 24m 48s.  My new PR is 24m 27s!!!  Which is pretty great... to shave off almost 30 seconds.  I'm happy.  Although, honestly, I would have liked to have seen something like 22m.  But I'll take it.

I don't know for sure about the second goal... I don't think they got enough Clydesdale runners to record that... since they never said anything about it when sharing who won each division.  But had they, I would have failed because I know another runner who registered Clydesdale and he beat me by about a minute.  So I wouldn't have won it.

But it wasn't a bad race.  Set a new PR.  Ran my first 5k race with my Mrs (she won her age group!!!!)!  Ran with a student and coworker!!! I had a bad week of training leading up... But I'll take it!!

HERE'S the official link to the news coverage of it. 

Keep running!

Jim


Daily Read December 5, 2010

1 Corinthians 15:54-57 (New International Version, ©2010)

54 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
 55 “Where, O death, is your victory?
   Where, O death, is your sting?”

 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.


Saturday, December 04, 2010

Daily Read December 4, 2010

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (New International Version, ©2010)

 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.


Friday, December 03, 2010

The lobby at North Terrace has...






... been transformed!!!






It has taken on a Christmasy feel.  Hope you enjoy it this weekend!!!



























Jim


Official Trailer -The Chronicles Of Narnia - Voyage Of The Dawn Treader ...




Looks amazing!!!!
Can't wait to see it with the students during the Christmas party in a couple of weeks!!!

Jim

Check it out HERE!



Daily Read December 3, 2010

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (New International Version, ©2010)

 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.


A sad day for Cubs fans... Ron Santo passed away...

It's a sad day for Cubs fans in particular and baseball fans in general. 

Ron Santo... 16 year baseball star and Cubs announcer has passed away. 

(Picture courtesy of NBC Chicago... Story HERE)

Since moving to Chicago several years ago, I have become a pretty hardcore Chicago Cubs fan (my office is currently painted Cubs colors).  I watched many games... caught several at Wrigley (always an amazing experience)... and listened to many, many games on the radio.

I would mow the yard... and listen to the game on the radio.  Go for a walk... listen to the game on teh radio.  Drive home from work, a meeting or small group... listen to the game.  Ron Santo was the Cubs for me.  He and Pat always had an amazing time calling the game and actually, I would many times prefer the the radio to the TV.  I have the MLB app for my iPhone, which allows me to listen to the games over the Internet and since moving to Ohio... I still listen to many, many games. 

It will be difficult to imagine listening to a Cubs baseball game without hearing Ron say... "Oh Jeez!!! Come on!!!" or listening to him sing the 7th inning stretch, as he did many times. 

He will truly be missed!

It's amazing to me that, even though I've never met Ron because I listened to him so much on the radio, I feel like I've lost a friend today. 

Rest in Peace my friend Ron!!!

Jim


Thursday, December 02, 2010

Daily Read December 2, 2010

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (New International Version, ©2010)

 4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.


Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Daily Read December 1, 2010

1 Corinthians 10:31 (New International Version, ©2010)

 31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.


December 1st...


It never ceases to amaze me how the seasons change. 

This morning is December 1st. 

I walked out the door this morning to snow slowly drifting down on a car that was cold and snowy (thankfully for getting to work not as snowy as this picture).  I received a text message from my wife encouraging me that I could start listening to Christmas music.  So, right now I'm listening to one of my favorite Christmas albums (and someone should write this down because I really don't like to listen to Christmas music that) Third Day's Christmas Offerings.  As I look out my office window, I see a bit of snow falling onto the cars in the parking lot. 

I'm not really sure there is a well defined point here... but I guess I just enjoy the seasons.  While I may growl at an occasional disruption to my running schedule, I do enjoy the different seasons... especially snow. 

Happy December 1st! 
Jim

The Amazing Grace Christmas Light House - Official Version




Looks like fun to me!!!
Jim

Check it out HERE


Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Daily Read November 30, 2010

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (New International Version, ©2010)

12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.


Monday, November 29, 2010

Daily Read November 29, 2010

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (New International Version, ©2010)

  24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Retiring old laces...

Today may have been the last run for the shoes on the right.

They have been my faithful running shoes for the past 7 months... or in running shoes language... 492 miles!!!!

That's a ton of miles.  Today, during my 6 mile run, I decided that my ole faithfuls need to be retired.  I have a brand new pair of Nike+ Pegasus 26's on the shelf (the ones on the left) waiting for their day on the trail... and if the rain holds off tomorrow, they will get their first 5k in.   But my current pair of Nike+ Pegasus 26's are hurting my feet a bit... especially in the balls... and they are starting to feel "heavy."

So, likely their running days are done... unless I get them another 8 miles so that I can say I went 500 miles in a pair of running shoes (keep the Proclaimers lyrics down over there...)! 

All in all, I've been happy with this pair of running shoes.  They have helped me cross some major milestones running...
  • Set two Personal Records in 5k... Susan G. Komen 5k in Columbus in May... and the Caldwell Fireman's Festival 5k in July...
  • Carried me to my first 1/2 marathon.... Akron in September
  • All of my Ohio running miles have been logged in these shoes
  • Helped Jackie get started running
So... it's a bittersweet deal for a runner.  (You non-runners won't understand... sorry.)  While I'll be retiring some old faithfuls... they will be demoted to everyday shoes instead of running shoes... which is one step above the last stop: lawn mowing shoes...

I'll be starting a new career with new running shoes.  Hopefully they will see a new PR in the 5k this weekend (Zaney Reindeer 5k), a half-marathon (Flying Pig in Cincy in May) and maybe a marathon (Air Force in September - although unlikely they will make the race... just take the brunt of the training).

Tomorrow morning, if the rain holds off, will be a bittersweet morning for me as I lace up to head out for my run.  But it will only be bittersweet for a few steps!

Jim

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Friday, November 26, 2010

Daily Read November 26, 2010

Acts 4:12-13 (New International Version)

 12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
 13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.


Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving - Thankful for...

It's hard to imagine that it's Thanksgiving again.  But alas, it is.  Not that I'm complaining... I love eating until my brains fall out... taking a nap... watching some football... then heading in to eat again. 

This time of the year, it's easy to turn our minds towards being thankful. 

Colossians 3:17 (New International Version, ©2010)

17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.


So... in the spirit of the holidays, here are a few of the things that I'm thankful for this year:
  • My wife... who is amazing and incredible!!! 
  • A great new church filled with incredible teenagers, amazing staff, great leaders.
  • An incredible team of volunteers that love students and give of their time sacrificially.
  • All of our new Zanesville friends who have welcomed us into their lives.
  • My parents... who are allowing us to live in their basement while we get back on our financial feet.
  • Running... it's amazing how much this has changed my life in the last year... since I ran my first race one year ago today in Naperville... and I missed running a Turkey Trot this year.  But since I started running, I've lost 40 pounds and changed my family tree!
  • Starbucks... yeah, I can be that shallow...
  • A God and Savior who forgives my mistakes... loves me unconditionally when I don't deserve it... and continues to use my best efforts in spite of myself.  
I have much to be thankful for!!!  But that's enough for now... where's the turkey???

Have a great Thanksgiving!!!! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your's!!!

Jim

Daily Read November 25, 2010

Matthew 28:18-20 (New International Version)

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”


Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Daily Read November 24, 2010

Matthew 28:5-6 (New International Version)

 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.


Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Daily Read November 23, 2010

John 19:38-41 (New International Version)

  38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. 39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. 40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. 41 At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Daily Read November 22, 2010

John 19:30 (New International Version)

30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.


Sunday, November 21, 2010

Daily Read November 21, 2010

Luke 23:46-47 (New International Version)

46 Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.
 47 The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, “Surely this was a righteous man.”


Saturday, November 20, 2010

Daily Read November 20, 2010

Mark 15:37-39 (New International Version)

 37 With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last.
 38 The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”


Friday, November 19, 2010

Daily Read November 19, 2010

Matthew 27:50-51 (New International Version)

 50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
 51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Daily Read November 18, 2010

Matthew 27:32-37 (New International Version)

  32 As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. 33 They came to a place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). 34 There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. 35 When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 37 Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Daily Read November 17, 2010

John 17:20-23 (New International Version)

    20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Daily Read November 16, 2010

John 15:13-15 (New International Version)

13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.


Monday, November 15, 2010

Daily Read November 15, 2010

John 15:4-7 (New International Version)

4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
   5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.


Sunday, November 14, 2010

A season with the Scotties...


I had some time to reflect tonight on my way home from New Philly.

It has been an interesting season.  It has been over 15 years since I took off my football helmet for good.  That was also the final time that I stood on a football sideline.  This year, I had the rare opportunity to head back down to the sideline and spend time with Tri-Valley Scotties football team.

When I arrived in Zanesville, an open door with the football team was already available.  The head football coach is a member at North Terrace and offered me the opportunity to help out with the team.  He wanted me to do two things.  1. Come out one afternoon during the week and talk about character with the team for 5-8 minutes. 2. Come out before the game and lead the team in Lord's Prayer, then I was welcome to hang out on the sidelines during the game.

Both of which I was happy to do.

And I had a blast.

We talked about things like goals, leadership, communication, attitude, courage, sacrifice, service, vision, perseverance, devotion and reliability.  All of those topics are sports related... but they're also Biblical.  While I never quoted a Bible verse to the players all season... I did paraphrase Scripture and slip it into the talk.  And I closed every talk with prayer.

It was an incredible experience... getting to know the players (who come up and talk to me when they see me at other events... like soccer games...), getting to know the athletic trainers, getting to know the coaches and other athletic staff.  Even the student section that came out and got rowdy for the games got to know me.

So... It was a great experience.  One that I hope that I get a chance to repeat next year.  One that I am definitely going to miss.

Jim

Daily Read November 14, 2010

John 15:1-2 (New International Version)

1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Daily Read November 13, 2010

John 14:6 (New International Version)

 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.


Friday, November 12, 2010

Awake - Weekend Recap!

Here's a little recap of Sunday night, November 7...

We kicked off a new series on Sunday night called "Friendship 101."  We are talking about friendship and what goes into making a great friend Biblically. 

Here are some of the elements that went into Sunday night:
  • We kicked it off with Casting Crowns video... Until the Whole World Hears. Great video with a powerful message.
  • We played a very fun and very competitive new game... called Bronco, Baby, Backpack.  (I picked it up HERE.)  It works kinda like "Rock, Paper, Scissors" only active with a partner.  We call out bronco, baby or backpack and the two have to get into that position.  Last group is out! Congrats to Jacob and Brock for winning that!  It was close!
  • We had a great worship set by worship team 2.  Set list was: Nothing But the Blood, Marvelous Light, How He Loves Us and Hosanna
  • A couple of short videos about friendship... Greatest Game Ever Played and Holes.
  • We talked about what creates a quality friendship versus what creates an average relationship.  Quality relationships are relationships that put the other first, last over time, tell the truth and take you in a Godly direction.  Showed a fun video about friendships... sometimes that how friendships are; they blindside you!
All in all... it was a great weekend.  We seemed to have a bit of a perfect storm as far as volunteers.  Four regular members of the team ended up being out Sunday night... two planned to be away and two couldn't make it suddenly.  Thankfully a couple of great folks jumped in and helped out. 

Looking forward to Week 2 of the Friendship 101 series... Dealing with trust!

Jim

Daily Read November 12, 2010

John 14:1-4 (New International Version)

1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.”

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Thank You Veterans!

Thank You
Thanks Veterans and Current Military men and women.

Thank you for your service.
Thank you for your willingness.
Thank you for your sacrifice.  

Today, I'm thinking of three people... who will never see this blog post... but I'm still thinking about them.  My Grandpa (Jim) who passed away in 1988 but served bravely in World War 2 on the European front.  My step-Grandpa (Kenny) who never uses the Internet but bravely served in World War 2 on the Japanese front.  My uncle Johnny who doesn't use the Internet (that I'm aware of) but served bravely in Panama and the first Iraq conflict and retired after 20+ years of service to the US Army.  

Thank you Veterans!!!

Jim

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

Driscoll Middle School Trick Play



This is awesome!!! Can you imagine how many times this story is going to be told as these kids get older!!

Jim

Check it out HERE



Friday, November 05, 2010

Daily Read November 5, 2010

Matthew 26:26-28 (New International Version)

 26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
 27 Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.


Running update!!

I quietly snuck up on a major running goal. 

Mid-March, I started to track my running in a running log (thanks to Runner's World Magazine... I got it free with my subscription).  So, some of my running details were saved there and some of them were still in Nike+ where I had been tracking them before (if you don't know, I'm tracking my running with Run Keeper now...). 

A couple of weeks ago, I sat down and added up the mileage that wasn't in my running log and added it in.  I realized that I was 15 miles from having run 450 miles for the year. 

That was two weeks ago!!! I've currently run 457 miles for the year!!! That's the same distance as basically running from Caldwell to Chicago. In other words... a lot of miles!!!

This being my first full year of running... I started running in August of last year... I didn't know what to expect.  But I'm pleased.  My average, through the year, even on days off is a mile and a half.  That's pretty great.  Maybe I can get my average next year up to two and a half miles a day even on days off.  But overall, I'm pleased.  And I'm hoping to knock out another 100 miles before the end of the year. 

So what's next?

As I blogged a couple of weeks ago, I'm planning on running the Flying Pig 1/2 Marathon in Cincy in May.  Additionally, I'm planning on my first full Marathon in Dayton, Ohio at the Air Force Marathon

In the short run... I need a race on the calendar (my training really suffers when I don't have a race on my calendar).  A Turkey Trot isn't really accessible... much to my chagrin... So I've signed up for the Zaney Reindeer Run 5k hosted by the YMCA on December 4th in Zanesville (at Vista Golf Course) with some friends. 

It should be fun... and yeah, I'll likely be wearing reindeer antlers and shooting to better my 5k PR of 24m 38s.  I'm hoping for 24 minutes flat!

Keep running!!
Jim

Thursday, November 04, 2010

Daily Read November 4, 2010

Matthew 25:34-40 (New International Version)

   34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
   37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
   40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’


Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Daily Read November 2, 2010

Matthew 23:11-12 (New International Version © 2010)

11 The greatest among you will be your servant. 12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.


Sunday, October 31, 2010

Fall Feastival was a success!!!

We had a great Fall Feastival tonight!!!

Cudos to the small groups, life groups and other groups from the church who provided great food... chicken nuggets, wings, fruit, brauts, hotdogs, apples with carmel... plenty of awesome food!!  (I actually felt a little sick when I got home earlier...)  Plus all those who provided bags of candy for the kids. 

It was a great night!! Very fun.  The staff all joined in and dressed up in the same theme.  Which, if you can't figure it out, we're Toy Story. 

Good, fun night!!!

But man, I'm tired!

Looking forward to next year already!!

Jim


Month of Wisdom - October 31

Today is the final day of the Month of Wisdom challenge...

Today is Proverbs 31... I think a longer quotation is needed!

Proverbs 31:10-31 (NIV)
Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character
 10 A wife of noble character who can find?
       She is worth far more than rubies.

 11 Her husband has full confidence in her
       and lacks nothing of value.

 12 She brings him good, not harm,
       all the days of her life.

 13 She selects wool and flax
       and works with eager hands.

 14 She is like the merchant ships,
       bringing her food from afar.

 15 She gets up while it is still dark;
       she provides food for her family
       and portions for her servant girls.

 16 She considers a field and buys it;
       out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

 17 She sets about her work vigorously;
       her arms are strong for her tasks.

 18 She sees that her trading is profitable,
       and her lamp does not go out at night.

 19 In her hand she holds the distaff
       and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

 20 She opens her arms to the poor
       and extends her hands to the needy.

 21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
       for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

 22 She makes coverings for her bed;
       she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

 23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,
       where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

 24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
       and supplies the merchants with sashes.

 25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
       she can laugh at the days to come.

 26 She speaks with wisdom,
       and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

 27 She watches over the affairs of her household
       and does not eat the bread of idleness.

 28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
       her husband also, and he praises her:

 29 "Many women do noble things,
       but you surpass them all."

 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
       but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

 31 Give her the reward she has earned,
       and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.




Saturday, October 30, 2010

Month of Wisdom - October 30

It never ceases to amaze me... every day... that God has given us His Word.  We have the privilege and opportunity to read from His Word any time we want. 

As I study church history, there have been centuries of time in which the church did not have this opportunity.  The church didn't allow it.  The church members couldn't read Latin (which was the language of the Bible for 1,400 years).  The church couldn't just sit down, open the Scriptures for themselves and read. 

Today, we can. 

Yet, many of us don't. 

We don't open our Bibles (or scroll if you're using a techy version like YouVersion or iPhone/iPod/Android software) and read for ourselves.  How the church over the years longed to read their own Bible... in their own language... but couldn't!!! How the church around the globe currently longs for their own Bible in their own language (but doesn't have it) or can't have it (because it's illegal). 

And yet... ours' often sit on the shelf...

unused...

Solomon called the Word of God flawless...
Proverbs 30:5 (NIV)
 5 "Every word of God is flawless;
       he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.


Have you picked up His shield today?
Jim