Josh Luse's Blog

Joy

2012-01-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

If I'm honest I have really been struggling to live in joy lately.
Here is a quote that I read that I am trying to figure out how it really fits into my real day today, even when joy seems very distant.

"Joy doesn't come from seeking joy. It comes from the very thing that this world tells us cannot produce joy, and that is to seek God."

Leadership Lessons

2012-01-17T09:14:00.000-08:00

I'm learning a lot in this time of life, even though it is a time of life where I feel like all I am doing is waiting for things to happen so I can learn. We had a staff meeting this past week and a man that I have been longing to learn from spoke up on leadership. Here are a few of the things I pulled from the time together.

Leadership – -You have to regularly evaluate what is the best leadership structure.
-There is no magic structure. Structure yourself to get to the next level; then you may have to re-structure.
-It is easier to invite people to the team than to un-invite them. Be cautious about who you ask to be part of your leadership team. Consider first asking just one person to help you think about your area of ministry.

o Have your goal be to empower your team, not to delegate.

- Delegation says, “I’m busy; I need your help.”

- Empowerment says, “I believe you are called and gifted in this area better than me.”

o Your team needs to be more than consultants. They need to take ownership of a piece of the pie. Opinions come easy from consultants, if they don’t have skin in the game.

o In order to give away influence you have to first gain it.

This last one didn't come from that conversation but it was said that day and I'm still thinking about it..."When you shape your view of God around the circumstances of life. He becomes a pretty hideous God."

Missions

2011-05-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

Missions is more than just a one-time event or an experience; rather missions is a lifestyle.

Asher's Prayers

2010-08-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

Asher just prayed, "...and God will you talk to me so I can hear you when I follow you but I don't know where you went."

Manure

2010-05-19T20:31:00.000-07:00

I heard a good quote today. "Christians are like manure you leave them all in one pile and it stinks, but spread them all out and they make things grow."

Dad During The Holidays

2009-12-09T11:35:00.001-08:00

A friend of mine emailed me this, I love it. I believe it is from Mark Driscoll's Blog.

’Tis the season for Dad to drop the holiday ball, stress out as the money is being spent for presents, and miss yet another providential opportunity to lovingly lead his family. So, this blog is intended to help dads not fall into the same old rut of holiday humdrum, sitting on the couch watching football and eating carbs, but rather intentionally plan out the upcoming holiday season. Our children grow quickly and if we miss the sacred moments God opens up for us to connect with and bless our families, everyone suffers and we set in motion generations of missed opportunity.

Dad needs...

a plan for the holidays to ensure his family is loved and memories are made. Dad, what’s your plan?

to check the local guides for what’s going on to make fun holiday plans for the family. In Seattle it’s here.
to carve out time for sacred events and experiences to build family traditions that are fun and point to Jesus. Dad, is your calendar ready for December?
to not let the stress of the holidays, including money, cause him to be grumpy with Mom or the kids. Dad, how’s your joy?
to give experiences and not just gifts. Dad, what special memories can you make this holiday season?
to manage the extended family and friends during the holidays. Dad, who or what do you need to say “no” to?
to ensure his family is giving generously during the holidays. Dad, who in need is your family going to adopt and bless?
to schedule a big Christmas daddy date with his daughter. Dad, what’s your big plan for the fancy daddy date?
to schedule guy time with his son. Dad, what are you and your son going to do that is active, outdoors, and fun?
to help Mom get the house decorated. Dad, are you really a big help to Mom with getting things ready?
to ensure some holiday smells and sounds. Dad, is Christmas music on the iPod, is the tree up, and can you smell cookies and cider in your house?
to snuggle up and watch some fun shows with the kids, especially the little ones. Dad, is the DVR set?
to take the family on a drive to see Christmas lights while listening to music and sipping cider. Dad, is it mapped out?
to help Mom get the kids’ rooms decorated. Dad, do the little kids get lights or a small tree in their room?
to read about Jesus and pray over his kids. Dad, how’s your pastoral work going with each of your kids?
to repent of being lazy, selfish, grumpy, or just dumping the holidays on Mom. Dad, are you a servant like Jesus to your family?

We Need Each Other

2009-12-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

"I'm eager to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours. In this way, each of us will be a blessing to the other." Romans 1:12 (NLT)

November Book

2009-11-06T13:39:00.000-08:00

Hey free audio book download during the month of November http://christianaudio.com/desiringgod

Desiring God by John Piper
Scripture reveals that the great business of life is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever. In this paradigm-shattering classic, newly revised and expanded, John Piper reveals that the debate between duty and delight doesn't truly exist: Delight is our duty.

Some Things I Know...

2009-10-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

I was reading another blog recently and got some ideas. Here is what they boil down to.

I must go through the valley to stand upon the mountain of God.
When I’m tired and thirsty He is there.
In this walk, it’s never about me.
A slow drift takes me miles from where I want to be, in a matter of minutes.
I need others.
There are days that I must choose to love.
When I choose to engage in Worship, He is so tangible.
Love God, Love others. The rest is just static.
When I am right with my Abba Daddy, my gifts are free to flow and bless others.
Livin’ – When I don’t allow myself to get caught up in the pomp and circumstance of life. When I finally stop taking myself so seriously. When I embrace the moment and remember what life used to feel like, and go for it.
Nothing brings me greater joy than to watch my kids walk in the gifts that God has given them to advance His Kingdom.
There’s my Faith, my Family, then anything Apple.
My journey takes one step at a time, no matter how badly I want to see around the corner, so enjoy the walk.
I love you Jesus….

Good Quote

2009-10-12T08:54:00.000-07:00

If you understand what a person fears you understand what they need.
--Marcus Bucingham

Camp

2009-10-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

I am about to head up for another camp planning meeting in a few weeks. For about the last 10 years I have been able to be a part of a high school/middle school week of camp in Nebraska. Something just keeps bringing me back every year, and I love it. Here are a few pictures from last summer.

Another Great Couple

2009-09-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

Here is just another glips of another wonderful couple at Emmaus.

Answering Machine

2009-09-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

So I often find my answering machine nearly filled because I continue to leave messages on that encourage me when I hear them for one reason or another. Anyways I finally decided that I needed to clear my inbox but I didn't want to just delete them. Asher always smiles when he hears several of them too. I so decided to stick a bunch of them on here. So here is a little glimps into my world. I hope it gives you a smile as it does me.

Coming To A Store Near You

2009-09-15T19:18:00.001-07:00

Hey our magazine is now in over 700 Barnes & Nobles and Borders across the country. Here is a link if you want to check it out at a store near you.
http://www.delightgfmagazine.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=146&Itemid=60

Campout In The Backyard

2009-09-08T20:25:00.001-07:00

Gone Fish'n

2009-08-31T22:01:00.000-07:00

Had a great opportunity to go fly fishing for the first time with a friend about a month ago. I think I have only been fishing twice and I don't think I have ever even pulled a fish off the line, so the whole thing was a learning experience. We hike three miles up Rocky Mountain National Park, blew up our belly boats and settled into the adventure. It was a bit cold. Passed some snow on the way up even though it was July. Fog so thick you couldn't see 15 foot in front of you, but after a while the sun cut through the fog to reveal some amazing mountains around us. In all it was an awesome experience and I even ended up catching 3 cutthroat trout.

Peru 09

2009-08-24T08:55:00.001-07:00

Get Your Groove On

2009-08-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

I saw this on a friends blog and it sparked some ideas. Three minutes and six seconds that teach so much. One thing that stood out to me is that someone has to start. It doesn't have to be the smartest, most qualified, strongest. It has to be someone. Someone with courage. Someone who doesn't care what other think. Someone willing to be uncomfortable. Someone willing to stand out.
Another thing I thought is that you may be doing it by yourself, against the odds, with sneers, laughs, fingers pointed, and people thinking you are a little weird. Or maybe a lot weird.
Stick to what you know you should do. Movement takes time. Endurance. Pain. Struggle. Joy. Authenticity.
Be who you are. You may not have the best moves, or smoothest skills. But you are you, with a finger print that is unique, and a uniqueness that goes far beyond that.
I'm sure there are many other things you could pull from this and maybe you will even leave a few in the comments, but my last one is to have fun. That's right. In all of this have some fun.
So go out. Stand out. Lead. Step out of what you know and what you are comfortable with, and get your groove on!

Hard Calling

2009-07-08T08:16:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get lost in the grind of life? I was looking at my calendar this past week and just got depressed. The summer is half over and I feel as though I have not had time to breath yet. I mean don't get me wrong I am really excited about some of the stuff that is coming up in the next couple months, and I have some margin built in. But as I looked at my schedule I looked at it with eyes full of expectation. And not the good kind. I have stuff coming up with the church and traveling to speak and taking a trip to Peru to serve the people. And then I start my school job again already and the cycle goes on and on. I should say here that my school job is great. It is not my dream job, but it helps pay the bills right now. And when I look at it like a job it drains all of the joy from it.

Monotony. Expectation. Kids. Daily grind. Same old thing.

But that was just the problem I was already mapping out what my day would be like a month before it ever happens. And the lack of adventure the thought of the same old thing killed me. Some of these things could go exactly how I imaging them, but then there is this God factor too. He throws things in my life all the time to wake me up out of my routine.

When I have a different outlook it changes everything. Like with my job with the school. I get to be with kids everyday, and have the chance to have an impact that could shape the rest of their life. I have these random opportunities to encourage, shape, challenge and share hope with.

It reminds me of the need to die daily. Like Jesus talked about in Luke 9:23. To wake up every day and pray for and be ready for the unexpected.

I mean I have been getting these kind of unexpected things for the past few weeks, and they come in all different shapes and ways. Some are incredible opportunities. Others are tests. Some painful. Some tempting. Most unexpected. All difficult, but all to help me grow.

I am learning to plan out my days, but watching... waiting... for opportunities to join God in his work throughout them. I am learning to push myself to do difficult things and step out of my comfort zone. I am learning to take risks and do things that require sacrifice. I am growing deeper in my understanding of faith, and what it means to trust God. I am learning that this life with Jesus is a hard calling if I truly want to follow him and trade in my selfishness. But I am also learning that there is no adventure, no life, nothing else like it. I would not trade it for the world.

Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:7-10

Worship

2009-06-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

If you cannot worship the Lord in the midst of your responsibilities on Monday its not very likely that you are worshiping on Sunday either. A.W. Tozer

I Love A Good Book

2009-06-22T06:25:00.000-07:00

I've recently come across a great book. I love it when I get into a good book and the pages begin to fill with notes and highlighter lines.

"The expansion of the gospel occurs, most naturally, through communities of men and women who live with missional intentionality among their friends and family who are without Christ."
- Doug Nuenke, President of The US Navigators

“if you consistently live the Gospel every day, may be one day you’ll get a chance to share it.”

Free Music

2009-03-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

I have discovered a new blog. I love doing that. Anyways Josiah has some great stuff to read including this great link to some free music that is offered for a short time. So check it out.

http://pagecxvi.com/share

Page CXVI is a project started with the idea of making hymns accessible and known again.They are some of the richest, most meaningful, and moving pieces of music ever written.
For a limited time, you can download them for no charge!

Perspective

2009-03-03T13:08:00.001-08:00

A broken soul does not look around much. Steinbek

Delight gluten free Magazine

2009-02-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

"Check out this amazing new magazine! Delight gluten free is a fun food & lifestyle magazine for people with Celiac Disease, gluten intolerance and food allergies. It hosts delicious gourmet recipes and easy semihomemade as well. Don't miss the Gluten-Free Meals on a Budget either. Whatever your food allergy you should be able to find something that fits your household, in their February issue they offer gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free, soy-free and even some rice-free recipes. Not only that, this magazine has a travel section coming in May that will host lots of fun ideas and good advice for when you venture out on the road. Personal stories, inspiring articles on Autism, Q & A with the Doc are among the other features of this magazine."

Subscribe to Delight Magazine!

I am so proud of this woman! A few years back we started dreaming about printing a magazine for people with Gluten intolerance and other food allergies. Ever since I was diagnosed with a gluten intolerance she has had an amazing attitude and is constantly finding the benefits rather that the negatives. I eat like a king and she has even gone on the same diet with me even though she has no need to. Anyways this month the premier issue of her magazine was shipped out and subscriptions have not stopped coming in. It is amazing. People have literally been subscribing from around the world. It has kind of blown us away. Anyways enough of me spouting off about this amazing woman. Go ahead and take a look at what she has been up to at http://www.delightgfmagazine.com. If you would like to pass along the news feel free to use the info at the top. Well that's enough from me. Thanks for letting me ramble and be a proud husband.

Satan Is Terrified

2009-02-11T19:48:00.000-08:00

I met with a guy from CU this morning. I was so encouraged and challenged and pumped. God is moving and it is neat to watch his people jump right in. I want a church were people are taking ownership and changing lives, and God has blessed me to be a part of a church like that. I love it that churches come in all shapes and sizes. I love it that God uses different things to reach different people. I love His church and I look forward to what He has to come. I thought you would enjoy the following excerpt from Organic Church by Neil Cole.

While doing some teaching in Japan, I had a dream that Heather, my daughter, started a church. In the dream, a room was full of young people who were all seriously worshiping God. When I returned from the trip, I mentioned it to her just to let her know that she was on my mind and in my dreams while I was away.
The next day she said, 'Dad, my friends all want to do it!' 'Do what?' I asked. 'Start a church.' I told her that she would have to do most of the work, and I would coach and lead only a little. She said that was fine. The next day she arranged a house to meet in, picked a night of the week, and found a worship leader; flyers were soon being passed out to friends on campus.
After the church had been meeting for several months, I met with these students and we all sang praises to the Lord. I felt the Lord's pleasure. I asked the students what was the biggest church they had ever been to. Living in Southern California there are many options of megachurches, and a number of churches were mentioned, ranging in size from two thousand attendees to more than fifteen thousand.
I then told them that I think Satan is more intimidated by this little church of fifteen high school kids than by any of those Godzilla-sized churches. They all sort of chuckled and looked around the room at one another with smiles.
I showed them why I thought this way: 'How many of you think you could start a church like one of those megachurches?' No one raised a hand. I asked, 'How many of you think you could start a church like this one?' and all raised their hands. I asked them to look around the room at all the raised hands, and I said with a new found soberness, 'I assure you, Satan is terrified by this.'

Comfortable

2009-02-11T00:10:00.001-08:00

This word has been on my mind a lot lately. COMFORTABLE, COMFORT. Hmm. For some reason I think of a couch that is incredibly soft and embraces me pulling me down gently into a lulled state of satisfaction. And, oh yes, I might as well put my feet up too. Ahh, now this is liv’n. Or is it. It is interesting because I looked up comfort in the dictionary just the other day. The second part of the definition said just that. “Affording or enjoying physical comfort” even the examples blew me away -a comfortable chair- -was too comfortable to move-. Wow, that hit me of how often that is my whole goal in this life, and even with God. God will you make me comfortable? Will you give me everything I want? Will you not ask me to do difficult things? Can I just stay right here?

I thought it was interesting how the first part of the definition had to do with “affording”, and how we so often think that comfort or maybe satisfaction comes hand in hand with this affording piece. If I am not careful these definitions, thoughts, and ideals can quickly guide me down a road leading nowhere fast. “Go on, just put your feet up and relax.” “Somebody else will take care of it.” Go ahead, you deserve it.

There was another definition listed for comfort too. It was affording or enjoying contentment and security. Why when I here this do I think of having things or a job or stuff in the bank, as if that is what keeps me free from doubt, stress or tension. It seems like the few times I am in this position I am nearly lulled to sleep and forget that this life is about so much more and that He offers so much more. It may be hard, difficult, unknown… but oh, that is where my true satisfaction is found. Comfort in Him. That is life, That’s liv’n. That is where the adventure, and contentment is found. That is where I want to rest.

It seems the times that I have grown the most in my relationship with Jesus are during difficult or uncomfortable times. When I am stretched, pushed, and challenged to step outside what I know. What I am comfortable with.

I was challenge in this thinking after a conversation with Aaron and Lori Luse,, living examples of this, who are missionaries living in Papua New Guinea. To hear more about their adventures and how they have gotton off the couch listen to podcast #3 found on the audio portion of our site.
Don’t just sit and watch what God is doing. Get up and Join Him. It will be well worth it!

Psalm 119
36 Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.
76 May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.

On The Radio

2009-01-13T21:36:00.000-08:00

So there is a pretty sweet station out here called Way-FM. I was listening to it one day and there was a show called Total Axxess on. Wally the host had said something that intrigued me a bit so I decided to go to there site to check out more. While I was on the site there was a place where you could submit songs for the "Hot List" that they play. Well it turns out they picked my list and called me for a little interview. It turns out the show goes out to to 93 stations across the country. It is no Joe the plumber but there is my little moment in the spotlight. Click below to listen.

http://www.divshare.com/download/6280236-9df

Multiply

2008-12-26T13:45:00.001-08:00

It is neat to watch God work. There is a movement happening at CU and we are excited that we can be a part of it in a small way. It is students like this that make a difference.

Up's and Down's

2008-12-15T06:46:00.000-08:00

They come in all different shapes and sizes don't they. They can look different, feel different, sound different, but there still up's and down's. I have to admit I have had a few of both lately, and they have all looked different. Some in myself and some with others. And they have all produced different reactions. Frustration, hurt, tears, sadness, yet on the other hand excitement, hope, happiness, encouragement.

What I am learning once again is that this life will be filled with both the up's and the down's. There will be times of great highs and times of deep lows, and everything in between. I am learning it is not so much about those high's and lows, as much as it is about what I do with them. I love it how Swindoll puts it. "Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

Meetings

2008-12-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

This morning I was coming out of my office (aka my basement) and I was greated by a little sleepy eyed guy in pj's. I had just finished meeting with someone and after they left Asher said,

"Daddy, No want yours go to work today."

I realized that I had not even gotten to see him two days before, I left before he was up (which is a pretty hard task to do with him) and got home after he was asleep. And the weekend before was not much of a weekend. In fact the week was packed a little too full.

Now I am trying to balance life and what it means to be a husband, and father, and pastor, and school supervisor, and church planter, and friend... you know the drill. I am learning there are just times that I need to stop what I am doing, or what I had planed, no matter how busy the day week, month, year, or what I have to do, and just be fully present... available... to my family.

So I said, "Ok, what do you want to do Asher?"

to which he responded, "Want to have a meeting with Asher?"

Me, "Ok."

He came down the stairs and sat on the couch accross from me, which I guess is what he has seen me do, so I just rolled with it.

Me again, "How are you doing?"

Ash "Good."

"What are you going to do today?"

"Play."

Me, "That sounds like fun."

"Yep."

Me, "Want to hear a story"

"Yes."

Me, "About what?"

Asher, "A boat."

So I proceeded to tell him this incredible story about a boat, and a guy named Noah. He ran to get my Bible and sat down on my lap. I had to recite it by memory because he wanted to turn the page every two seconds. (To bad my Bible doesn't have pictures).

Anyways the whole thing had to end with some wresting or wrassel as he calls it. The whole thing only lasted about 15minuts but it was just one of those little reminders of the important things in life.

December 10, 2008 was a good day.

Faith

2008-12-01T06:24:00.000-08:00

Some time back my brother gave me his copy of The Complete Green Letters by Miles J. Stanford. I had read through it several years ago and picked it up every now and then to read a section or two. A few weeks back I was meeting with several pastors and one of them said that in their reading if they read an new book they will follow it up by an old book that has been tried and tested. And they went on to say how they had been reading the Principles of Spiritual Growth which which is an updated copy of the previous book. Anyways I was challenged to begin reading the book again, and have not been let down. Check out a few of these excerpts.

"Many people are willing to believe regarding those things that seem probable to them. Faith has nothing to do with probabilities. The providence of faith begins where probabilities cease and sight and sense fail. Appearances are not to be taken into account. The question is--whether God has spoken it in his word." Mueller

"Faith must be based upon certainty. There must be a definite knowledge if God's purpose and will. Without it there can be no true faith. For faith is not a force that we exercise or a striving to believe that something shall be, thinking that if we believe hard enough is twill com to pass." Alexander R. Hay

"It is a great thing to learn faith: that is, simply dependence upon God. It will comfort you much to be assured that the Lord is teaching you dependence upon Himself, and it is very remarkable that faith is necessary in everything." J.B. Stoney

Nick Vujicic

2008-11-10T21:28:00.000-08:00

Just watch you will be inspired!

http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/
http://www.attitudeisaltitude.com

When It Rains it Pours

2008-10-28T22:18:00.000-07:00

Wow another post.

Just another quote that has been rolling around in my head.

"Most believers spend more time praying to keep other believers out of heaven than nonbelievers out of hell."

Sad but often true. I think it's time we spent a little less time praying for hangnails, and our neighbors cats.

Church

2008-10-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

Easier isn't always better. Simple isn't always easier.

Just a thought I have been wrestling with lately.

Greater Things Have Yet To Come

2008-10-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

I was just hit with one of those moments.
You know the kind that you have every now and then that seemingly sneak up on you out of nowhere and yet they are so glaringly obvious you can't help but be embarrassed.
Do you know what I am talking about?
Well, I have been listening to talk shows for the last few weeks as I have driven around, been hit with mail, commercials and the topic of every fifth conversation I am a part of.
The election.
It has been an interesting one. And I have to say that there are things that I like about both candidates.
Can I say that?
Is it a rule that you have to hate one and love the other?
Now there are also things that I disagree with with both candidates too.

So I'm sitting here tonight working and I catch myself thinking about which candidate is best for the country and which candidate will make a positive difference in this country and who would be best to lead this nation. I am reminded of a book that just came out "Jesus For President", and a barage of thoughts were flooding my mind.

Then it hit me...
You know what I was talking about before. I don't mean to keep you waiting, but you have to understand that some times the most obvious things are often the most overlooked.
...Have you prayed about who you should vote for?

What?
Isn't it obvious?
Aren't we supposed to use the brain God gave us?
Doesn't he give us principles to govern our lives by?
What would you need to pray about?

None the less I realized that even when I think I've got it all figured out, God still wants to hear from me. I am like that so much. I think that is one of the things* that often lures me from my dependence on Him. From leaning solely on Him. Waiting on Him. Anyways I decided to do just that. Pray. But my prayer turned from praying about these candidates to praying for them. It lead to praying for this nation. For these people that I love that are fellow Americans. It lead to me praying for the people and not so much the politics. And from there I began to pray again for the county and cities where God has placed me to share His hope.

Thanks for being sovereign.

Thanks for wanting me to talk to You.

Thanks God for simple reminders that are so obvious!

*me

...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

God Of This City - Chris Tomlin
Youre the God of this city
You're the King of these people
You're the Lord of this nation
You Are
For there is no one like our God
There is no one like our God
Greater things have yet to come
Great things are still to be done
In this city
Greater things are still to come
And greater things are still to be done here

Kingdom Mindset

2008-09-10T12:18:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to shoot a video for a church that has done so much for us over the past two years. They have encouraged us, helped us, resourced us, and so much more as we began Emmaus Road Community. I love the mindset of looking outside beyond themselves that they exemplify, and I thought you might enjoy seeing some of the things they will be doing this next year. Cornerstone, we love you guys!

Splash

2008-08-15T14:06:00.000-07:00

We had such an awesome time a few weeks back watching people publicly show what Christ has done in their lives. God is so good!

More from ISFG

2008-08-14T19:49:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share a few fun moments from this past summers In Siouxland For Good.

For more great picts check out Jim's Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/sunnybrookhigh/sets/72157606580869031/

Change

2008-07-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

A few thoughts on Change from Barney Wells "Leading Through Change"

Four motivations for change.

Internal

Dissatisfaction- You become aware of other options
Discomfort- There is a painful element to it

External

Coercion- You are forced to change
Displacement- You don't have an option not to change

"Change means movement. Movement means friction. Only in the frictionless vacuum of a nonexistent abstract world can movement or change occur without that abrasive friction of conflict." Saul Alinsky

"Life is an active process of becoming. If you haven't added to your interest during the past year; if you are thinking the same thoughts, relating the same personal experiences, having the same predictable reactions -- rigor mortis of the personality has set in." General Douglas MacArthur

"A person who never changes is either perfect or stubborn."

In Siouxland For Good

2008-07-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

I just finished spending a week with over a hundred of the coolest middle schoolers. They allowed me to come challenge them every morning and night and went out and served the community during the day. I thought I would let you see the intro video they showed the first night.

Alive

2008-06-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

Some times I think of Jesus as though He were dead and gone to heaven. I know this is not true but this is how my mind tends to think of it. Much like a relative that had passed away and went to heaven. There is kind of a type of distance, between us. They are in a good place, heaven, happy, but totally unconnected from where I am and what I am doing. My memories of them are in the past and make me smile, distant still though.

Now I know this is not true, but some times that is how my mind frames it about Christ. The thing that I know but I don't tend to let sink in all the time is that he is not dead.1 No I mean it. He is not in heaven because he died. Pretty much everyone else that believed in Him is there for that reason. I mean when everyone dies they go somewhere right. And really there is only one of two places they can go, and people that are in heaven had to get there some how.

But the reason He is in heave is because he chose to go there. I mean He had died here on earth, but he beat death and came alive again, and chose to stick around and talk and eat and hang out with people for a while after that.2 And then one day He decided to float up to heaven, with a bunch of people watching Him. I mean that day He chose to go up to heaven. He didn't die, He chose to go there. He ascended there, alive, and is still alive today. And not only that but He can choose to come down to earth physically at any point. In fact He is going to come back down here some day, probably sooner that most of us think.

I know this may sound a little weird, maybe even a little fictional, someone coming back to life and then floating away. I have got to admit as a kid I tried to fly and it didn't really work out so well. And the people watching Him were a little amazed at this odd site because they just stood there watching Him float up. But maybe it wasn't all that odd because he had been doing amazing things His whole life. After all He was God. But anyways they stood there so long staring at the sky that He had to send someone down to tell them to stop staring at the clouds and start doing what he told them to do.3

And that is to take this hope that He has given us to the rest of the world. I like it how Neil Cole puts it. He came naked through the birth canal, just like the rest of us. He had to have someone change His diapers (or swaddling clothes, depending on which translation you read) and for a time could communicate only by crying, just like all other people since Adam and Eve. He was poor and lived among us. He got his hand s dirty and served the people. Eventually, He even came to me somewhere in the twentieth century after his life, death, and resurrection. We need to let Him come to the lost today as well.

Jesus is still incarnate; we are now His feet, His hands, His eyes, and His mouth. We are the body of Christ. We are His temple and His Spirit dwells with in our flesh (1 Cor. 6:19). We are not deity, but Deity dwells in us, and I propose that this truth is such a dramatically life-altering reality that all should notice.4

He is still alive today. In fact is because He is alive that I can truly be alive.5 He’s the way I can have Life in this life. He is still giving hope and changing lives. I’m not going to live today in memory of Jesus. I am going to live today with Jesus.

1.Luke 28:5-10
2.Luke 24:13-53; John 20:16-21:25
3. Acts 1:8-11
4.Neil Cole, Organic Church
5.Colossians 3:1-17

Share Fest 08

2008-06-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

Community

2008-06-03T10:26:00.001-07:00

Family

2008-05-20T19:12:00.001-07:00

Photo's courtesy of our friend Justina Dean

Asher testing the mic

2008-05-04T14:54:00.001-07:00

I was getting some equipment ready for an interview and Asher wanted to help out. He is always ready to help.

Rutt

2008-04-21T16:26:00.000-07:00

Commute

2008-04-11T12:19:00.000-07:00

I had found myself complaining at times about my 50 minute morning commute up to my part time job. I decided early on though that I would not let that mind set settle in and get comfortable. Now I'm not a early morning guy, but it has it's rewards. It is such a joy to watch the sun rise as I drive through the mountains. I pulled over the other day to capture the moment and share it with you.

This is the day the LORD has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

oh so short

2008-04-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

I just got blindsided by and email. I have been trying to get back to work for about 20 minutes now but I can't shake it. I sit here numb, shocked, hurt, and I feel as though a rock is sitting in my chest. I thought writing a few words that come deep from my heart may help.

This last Sunday I was asked to speak at the church I grew up in. It really was a neat and encouraging time to share my heart for a missional life, and to hear stories of those who I had shepherded sharing a similar heart. One particular man sat right in front of my wife during the service and we were greeted by a smile and hug and able to talk a bit before the service started. After the service finished he came and talked with me for a bit. His first words were...

"Welcome back home."

Now he knows that I now have a new home, but I understood what he was telling me. We love you. It is good to have you back friend. He ended by saying, "we miss you."

"We are praying for you."

He and his dear wife have prayed for us and encouraged us since the first time we met him. They have always smiled and said a kind word whenever we would run into each other.

I had no idea that only hours after our conversation he would suffer a massive heart attack leaving him in a comma never to wake again.

He died Wednesday.

I just received an email about it this afternoon.

It hurts.

Now, Dave knew Jesus, and Dave followed Jesus. He had given his life to Christ.

We are promised an abundant life with Christ for eternity, because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, and Dave realized the truth and fullness of this gift and believed in Jesus. Followed Him. Trusted Him.

Don't get me wrong this gives me tremendous hope, and peace.

But it still hurts.

Sue. I hurt with you.

I pray for you and you the rest of your family.

I celebrate his life with you. We love you guys.

Dave, we will miss you.

Thank you for a life well lived.

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. James 4:14

Friends

2008-03-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

I remember in grade school learning the i went before the e in friend because of a tip someone once gave me. A good friend will be with you till the end. Sometime you really miss those friends that are so dear to you. In about a month it will have been five years since I last got to talk to a good friend Mark. I thought I would share a little glimpse of a great life. Here is a little poem he wrote and a video we did for his funeral. It will be so good to see you again some day my friend.

Come with Me

I wanna be different from the crowd
It hurts so bad I wanna scream out loud

I want you to come with me
It will be a better place you’ll see

So come with me…
Run like you’ve never run before
So come with me…
Run till your legs become sore
So come with me…
I promise you’ve never been here before

So you take my hand
I look for a smile
I haven’t got one yet
I know I will in a while

We are gonna go far, far away
Can you trust me for more than a day

We’ll be so happy and so free
I promise you if you come with me

Blessed.

2008-03-07T20:23:00.000-08:00

My wife and I recently were offered a free place to stay with my aunt and uncle in Hawaii. My parents then twisted our arms saying they would cover the air fair if we wanted to go. It was so fun hanging out with our family and take in some warmer weather.
What blessing.

I got a few other pictures I'll post later.

Fast As A Fox

2008-02-17T19:31:00.000-08:00

So the other week I was reading through Judges, and was fascinated by a few things, Samson being one of them. A week later I was leaving my office and there were two fox, (foxes?) by my car. Now Samson had to be one of the strongest men in the history of the world, and quick too. We are told of one time when he got ticked off so he caught 300 fox and tied their tails together with torches in between them. He then set them out to run like crazy in the fields of those that had pushed his buttons. You could imagine the foxes (and probably a lot of people) around that area would stay clear of a dude that strong a fast after that. Now I'm not saying anything, but when those two foxes saw me coming to my car they split... I'm just saying.

Judges 15:4-5
So he went out and caught three hundred foxes and tied them tail to tail in pairs. He then fastened a torch to every pair of tails, 5 lit the torches and let the foxes loose in the standing grain of the Philistines. He burned up the shocks and standing grain, together with the vineyards and olive groves.

Blues in Loveland

2008-01-24T10:08:00.000-08:00

My wife and I had a chance to go with some friends to a Blues concert in Loveland. What a night. I now have a whole new appreciation for blues.

Asher Singing in the Car

2008-01-23T08:31:00.000-08:00

New videos

2008-01-16T06:37:00.000-08:00

We have some new videos of Asher up if you would like to go check them out.
Go to videos>> >>

Farewell

2007-11-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

A month has almost past and my time in India is coming to and end. Living in this land has taught me many things, and the people now have a place in my heart. My prayer for this nation is based on Psalm 67...

May God be gracious to you India and bless you and make his face shine upon you. That His ways may be known in India and His salvation among your nation. May India praise You, O God; may all the people praise You.

Incredible India

2007-11-01T08:25:00.001-07:00

What a ride its been!

Different

2007-10-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

Many times when I think of different I think of it in a negative connotation. Different can be bad, but just because it is different doesn't make it bad. This has been a different week. This has been a different month. This is a different place. I hope that I am different as well. I am definitely different here. I stand out like a sore thumb. Even the dogs are not quite sure what to make of me around here. I drive and walk by many smiles and fingers pointed in my direction daily. I hope that after not seeing many family and friends for some time I will look different when I return. Not physically on the outside, although that too may be true, but different on the inside. I hope that my character is changing, that I am growing to be more like Jesus. That I am not just learning more truths about God, but that they are sinking deep into my being, and I am becoming more like Jesus every day. I don't want to have just taught about God, I want to live out these things.

God give me the strength I need to be light and a breath of fresh air in dark and searching places.

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. Acts 4:13

..."I have set for you and example that you should do as I have done for you." Jesus (In John 13)

"...apart from me you can do nothing" Jesus (In John 15)

Sketch

2007-10-26T08:34:00.001-07:00

I sketched this in my journal yesterday afternoon. It is the view from my hotel window. I made sure to include the speaker that sits next to the dome on the mosque since it sounds various times during day including a call to worship at 4:30am that I particularly enjoy. Other things included that may be hard to see are; people playing cricket on the roof tops, strings of clothes hung out to dry that decorate nearly every building, cows in the street, and Waldo. Where is that guy? Unfortunately I wasn't able to capture the constant sounds of horns blasting continuously throughout the day and night in the street below our window. It is a little different than Boulder here.

Friend

2007-10-25T01:19:00.000-07:00

What a guy. I knew I was going to enjoy spending this month with Kevin after hearing him share his heart last year at a pastors retreat. What I did not know what how much I would enjoy it. Through this time with him I have learned, been challenged, encouraged ,and gained a friend. I think you would enjoy reading some about the trip from his perspective. Check out his blog . Kevin it has been a pleasure serving with you!

Critters

2007-10-25T01:11:00.001-07:00

Taj

2007-10-25T01:03:00.001-07:00

Beautiful, but it doesn't hold a candle to the beauty of my wife:) I love you and miss you Julie!

Round Two

2007-10-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

I'll post more later I am running out of time. We are now paying for internet time.

Alive And Well

2007-10-19T00:30:00.000-07:00

I am feeling much better today. Most of my symptoms are gone or fading and I have much more strength, which has definitely been an encouragement. Not a 100% getting closer. The laps in health has reminded me of the need to be joyful in all circumstances, something I am not really the best at. It has also been a good reminder to trust in God for healing. After all who better to fix this body that the one who made it, right? God you are so good, and all you do is good. Thanks that I can come to you in times of trouble. Thanks for your continued blessing on my life. Thanks for proving yourself to be dependable, though you need not. This dependability is only a reflection of the character that I know to be true in You. Thanks for the realities I have found in You. It amazes me that some could trust in cows or images of stone for the same hope and strength that I put in You, The Living God. God will you use me to show these beautiful people the hope that I have found in you?

Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods. The gods of other nations are mere idols, but the Lord made the heavens! Honor and majesty surround him; strength and joy fill his dwelling. O nations of the world, recognize the Lord, recognize that the Lord is glorious and strong. 1 Chronicles 16:25-28

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. Psalm 20:7

...give thanks in all circumstances... 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Puppy

2007-10-18T00:51:00.001-07:00

Asher, I thought you and your mom might enjoy this picture. I love you. Dad

Truck

2007-10-15T05:01:00.001-07:00

A man came up to me and didn't understand why I was taking a picture of a truck. I thought you might understand.

Clean

2007-10-15T04:00:00.001-07:00

I took a warm shower today. First warm water in a week. It felt so good. I had been trying to figure out why there were so many puddles along the side of the road, since it has not rained the whole time we have been here. I just realized a couple days ago that those aren't just any puddles. Them theres some sewage. Everything made a little more sense. You have to be careful where you walk along the road avoiding small "streams" that may cross your way, winding in between homes, also avioding the little surprise that Betsy or one of her many cousins may have dropped along the way as they wonder about aimlessly (for those not from the Midwest, when I say Betsy I mean cow). Glad we cleared that up. Anyways a couple days ago we were talking about Christ. How he emptied himself and took the form of a servant in Philippians chapter 2. Kenosis. I ended the class with a foot washing as we read through John 13. It amazing that you don't have to think very hard here to try to imaging why it would have have been nice to have your feet washed in Jesus day. Hot days, traveling on dusty roads by foot. Feet dirty from the open toed sandals and sweat mixing with dirt along with possible other wonderful surprizes from a cow, donkey, or camel, mixed in with it all along the way. Why would anyone want to wash feet? Why did Jesus wash feet?

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Philippians

Father thank you for the servant hearts of these men. Thank you for your example in your Son. Help me to better reflect your Son.

Tempted

2007-10-13T04:14:00.001-07:00

I was tempted to complain today. Well I guess if I am honest I am tempted everyday. A few hundred times throughout the day may be a bit more accurate to say. It comes in so many different forms and often I can slyly let it pass by my lips without a second thought. For the first time today thought I looked a our meal, and and an ungrateful thought began to formulate. A meal that I have seen pretty much in the same form for the last seven days, three times a day. I thought of all the different things I could be eating, wondered why the consistency in the things I see on my plate, and on and on. Then it hit me, it almost hurt, and I'm sure it did hurt Jesus heart. They are serving us their best. This cook has been amazing. He has worked none stop since we have been here, always joyfully serving, the list goes on and on. And for this gluten intolerant guy this has been a dream. Rice chicken, spices, vegetables, clean (often cold) water, hot food, even a tea unlike any I have had. God is so good to look after me in even the small ways. Thanks for your provision, and I truly meant it when I prayed "God, thank you for this food."

Do everything without complaining... Philippians

Safety

2007-10-12T23:54:00.001-07:00

What does it mean to be safe? I mean when you really think about it, is it really comfort you are talking about? Or maybe what you know, or supposed stability. Is it staying well away from the edge? Not going to fast? Living moderately, cautiously? Not running with scissors? Is God really limited by the physical like we are? Or is the safety we have in God so much bigger than that? Is it possible for something to slip by Him? Is there really anything that could distract Him, so he wasn't paying attention? "Whoops, how did that happen?" I am understanding safety on a whole new level. I am understanding that I am just as safe on a cliff in God's will as I am in my comfy bed at home. Not to say that I should be stupid, but to say I am to be dependent, at peace, assured, confident, resting in the fact that He is in complete control no matter the circumstances that surround my life. Feel satisfied, even comforted to leave the outcome is in His hands. I can rest in that. Father I do not want to live safely by they standards or this world disguised in timidity and caution, let me rest in your will and define safety according to your terms. Thanks God for this amazing reality!

Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4

Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing." Psalm 16:1-2

Journey

2007-10-10T21:54:00.001-07:00

simple words, big smile

2007-10-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

I look forward to posting some more pictures, when I get a better connection, but until then I wanted to share a little note my incredible wife packed in my bag. I have read it several times now, and it brings a smile every time.

We miss you already!! As you read this Asher is probably wondering around the house saying "Da Da" and I'm trying to figure out if he's talking to me or asking for you. So after my usual response "I'm Ma Ma, remember?" I'll probably tell him that his daddy is on a great adventure right now and his making us very proud and when he comes home he will have all sorts of stories to share that we can't get our hands on at the library or Barnes and Noble. We love you and we are with you all along the way.
Love
Asher-Your best bud
Julie-Your best girl

It is amazing how distance brings perspective. God has truly blessed me with a wonderful family, church, and life. I am so grateful to wake up every morning in His grace with anticipation and wonder of what he has in store for my journey with Him on this new day.

I leave you with this verse...
Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. Isaiah 26:8

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

2007-10-08T22:39:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share some of my travels with you. Layover in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.

God always uses the man closest to Him.

2007-09-27T20:27:00.001-07:00

DL Moody

Google

2007-09-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

I recently read about some interesting things Google is doing behind the scenes.

They have a rule that software engineers spend at least 20 percent of their time, or one day a week, working on whatever projects interested them. The 20 percent rule was a way of encouraging innovation, and both Brin and Page (founders of Google) saw this as essential to establishing and maintaining the right culture and creating a place where bright technologists would want to work and be motivated to come up with breakthrough ideas….at Google, the 20 percent approach sent the opposite message- spend one day a week on something you, not your boss, are passionate about, and don’t worry about such pedestrian matters as whether the idea could be a moneymaker or something that could be turned into a successful product.

What if this approach was used in the church? Derek Brown thought this was a good idea, and said it this way. What if we came to our staff and said: one day a week is yours. Use it for whatever you want to do related to the church. Don’t go run errands or anything; but be ministerially productive creatively and redemptively. I guarantee a few things would happen: our worship leaders would write more original songs. Our discipleship pastors would write great books on small groups. Ministry ideas would overflow come staff meeting time. “I’ve been working on this, what do you think?” Innovation is key, even in the church, and Google’s 20% rule is a great way to foster it.

Who Am I?

2007-08-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

I read something I've read quite a few times before but it stuck out this morning.

But moses said to God, "who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" And God said, "I will be with you." A different version reads, who am I that I should be a "pastor" to people in Colorado, and God still answers back I will be with you.

I don't know if you have ever felt the way I do, I assume probably you have, but sometimes I wonder how I could possible make a difference, or why it should be me making a difference, or for that matter if I have anything to offer anyone anywhere.

Now I am not a guy who lacks self confidence. I grew up thinking I could do anything, and in spite of myself, God allowed me to see things happen. I was able to be a leader in my class and school from a young age. I was able to be on a team that won the highest tournament our division offered after winning state. I was actually even the mvp for that tournament. I had confidence to get dates. I guess looking back at it I was Josh, Aarons younger brother, or Josh the Athlete, Josh the class president, Josh the leader, or Josh the good looking guy (alright maybe I made that one up).

The thing I have realized though is those things are so small, and in fact they fade so fast. My high school has since changed names and along with that wiped away all the history. The only thing left there from my time is a banner hanging on an old bus barn, and that probably won't be there much longer either. I didn't pan out in college as an athlete. And my identity switched from what I was good at in my small bubble to what I did for work, and even that has become something new to which I am constantly learning. You could say I'm not quite as "good" or comfortable at doing what I do compared to what I used to do, and I wonder if I should be something different.

All this to say that there are days when I say, "God who am I?" Which leads me to say, "God who am I without you?" But you know what I am learning that that is exactly where I want to be. Nothing more, nothing less than who God made me. I know it is easy to say but I am also learning that I can't do anything on my own. I get frustrated, selfish, and my world starts to implode. But when I tell God alright You do it. You lead. You talk. I need your wisdom, guidance, provision. It's all about You. That is were I find Peace, Confidence, Joy, Leadership, Love, Contentment, Satisfaction, and ultimately that is were I find me, because I have found Him. Why should I trust God, His plan, His will, where He has me. He knows me better than I know myself. And he tells me, "I will be with you!"

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. Psalm 139:13-14

Brotha From Another Motha

2007-08-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

A new friend emailed a few weeks back asking if I could help him move. Since I understand what a HUGE blessing people have been in helping me move I readily agreed. It's kind of interesting because when you help someone move you get to meet all their other friends, or should I say true friends:) It was neat meeting all these new people, but one stood out. He was genuinely a neat guy. We didn't get a chance to talk a ton, but we did put a crib together for the family that was moving in. After quickly tying a few of the ties on the crib and noticing he was neatly tying the bows on his side I decide to redo mine.

It wasn't till about a week later after talking with his friend that in I learned a bit more about this guy. It turns out he lost his only son during birth within this last year, along with other difficulties has lost his wife too. When I heard this I almost began to cry. I didn't even really know this guy, but my heart broke for him. And then I only learned more about him. How he noticed his friends who had a baby almost the same age were a bit more quiet about there son, so he reassured them that it was a blessing to him to hear them talk about their son.

I think the thing that stood out to me was his heart. His unwavering desire to follow Christ, and his total dependence on Him to keep moving forward. His friend that was walking through this whole thing with him, because of this bond they both had. It was like they were family. That's what it means to be a fellow Christ follower. That's what this family thing God talks about means. God thanks for brothers from other mothers.

First 14er Mt Bierstadt

2007-08-05T18:13:00.000-07:00

Dad's Buddy

2007-07-26T22:22:00.000-07:00

Bolder Boulder

2007-06-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

So I got the opportunity to run the Bolder Boulder with some friends this year. What an experience! I be back again next year. Thanks for keeping me going Cory.

Summer Camp

2007-06-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

My family and I recently had the opportunity to help direct two weeks of summer camp. It has become somewhat of a tradition now since this was the eight year that we have been out at camp Maranatha. It is always a bit chaotic when you get over 300 teens together for one week of camp, but what an incredible few weeks it was!

First Tri

2007-05-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

I recently got the chance to do my first Triathlon, the best part was that I got to do it with my dad, what a guy. I won't mention the fact that he beat me. Thanks Kris for helping me train. What an experience.

Good Bye Snow

2007-04-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today I said good bye to a fun season of boarding. Never in my life have I seen so much snow in one year. It has been fun! Thanks Peter for hooking me up all season and for the great times. Next year I'll start singing again.... Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. Till then I'll enjoy the warmer weather.

No Compartments

2007-03-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

I came accross this while reading Kary Oberbrunners book Called.

A master in the art of living draws no sharp distinction between his work and his play; his labor and his leisure; his mind and his body; his education and his recreation. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence through whatever he is doing, and leaves others to determine whether he is working or playing. To himself, he always appears to be doing both. --Francois Auguste Rene Chateaubriand

I am BLESSED

2007-03-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you ever have one of those moments where you realize how blessed you are, but I had one of them last night. One of those times when you don't want it to end, you just want to sit and soak as much up as you can. In fact if time stopped for a while you really would mind. My incredibly awesome wife had the idea of going on a hike last night. It wasn't planned. In fact it was about 6:00pm when she suggested it. We grabbed a backpack and ten minutes later we were hiking up a mountain. It was great, in fact near the top we were all (including Asher, actually he is the one who tipped us off to it because he had is head cranked all the way back and was just staring at the sky) silently looking at the beautiful pink and orange clouds. It was awesome but the thing that struck me the most was on our hike we were laughing and goofing around, and just enjoying each other. I remember looking at these two people with me and thinking of how blessed I am to have them. I could have taken this hike alone, but it was so much better with them with me. In fact everything is better when they are with me. I have truly been blessed both when I was young and now with this thing called family. What a picture it gives me of this family that God has invited me into.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:3-5

He is happiest, be he king or peasant, who finds his peace in his home. -- Goethe

Check out what my wife is thankful for. Thankful Thursdays

Stuff

2007-03-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

After reading my wifes blog I thought I would contribute to her Thankful Thursdays. I have to tell you I am truly thankful for this old dresser that sits in our bed room.

My wife has had this thing for I don't know how long, and it was her parents before that. It is showing it's age. It is missing handles, the drawers don't quite slide in right, and if your not careful when you move it you will end up with the top of the dresser in your hands and the rest still sitting on the ground. (I believe it was due to some sort of moving accident on the highway:0) Not to mention hazard of getting caught on a stray screw abandoned by its fellow nob. Don't get me wrong it still works wonderfully for what it was made to do, but it has seen better days.

And yet I love this thing. Some day it will most likely get replaced by a newer nicer dresser, or maybe not. But one of the things I love about this thing is that it reminds me of my needs. I am blessed with so much more than I could have ever imagined. I have an incredible family, beautiful wife, amazing son, live in a breathtaking place, have wonderful friends, work with an awesome church, and have a relationship with the creator of the universe. I think these are the things that matter. And for these things I am truly grateful. I can honestly say that I don't want to live my life for some wood held together by some screws, or some metal red paint and rubber tires, or tv that won't fit on my wall, or even the home to put it in. I'm not saying I don't like these things, I do, and I'm not saying they are wrong either, but I have to make sure they are not the focus of my life.

...I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13

I want my life to be characterized not by the things I have or what I have done, but rather why I've done it, and what it's been used for.

“Jesus, please teach me to appreciate what I have before time forces me to appreciate what I had.” Susan L. Lenzkes

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonian 5:16-18

I Agree With Gandhi

2007-03-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

"You Christians look after a document contain enough dynamite to blow all civilization to pieces, turn the world upside down, and bring peace to a battle-torn planet. But you treat it as though it is nothing more than a piece of good literature." -- Mohandas Gandhi

A Praying Parent

2007-03-04T15:30:00.000-08:00

I haven't read a lot from Chip Ingram, but what I have read I love. I have been praying for Asher and any other children that God may bless us with, I recently came across a prayer that really captures my heart and passion.

"Lord, will you help me to cooperate with You so we can work together on this gift You've entrusted to me? Will you help me prepare this vessel to be filled with your Spirit, so that in ten, twenty, thirty years this child loves and trusts You, knows Your grace, and has values and convictions that reflect Your heart?" --Chip Ingram

Resource Books on Parenting

2007-03-03T18:26:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back our church had a parenting workshop. It was great and I thought I would pass along a list of resources the Cockson's gave us. I have no read them all but I intend to check out as many as possible since being a father and husband is one of the most important tasks I have.

Book Title Authors
Bible
The Power of a Praying Parent Stormie Omartian
The Power of a Praying Wife Stormie Omartian
Shepherding a Child's Heart Ted Tripp
The Five Love Languages of Children Gary Chapman and Rose Campbell
Unlocking Your Child's Learning Potential Cherri Fuller
Different Children Different Needs Charles F. Boyd
The Way They Learn Cynthia Ridge Tobias
For Instruction in Righteousness Pam Forester
Skills Evaluation For Home School Rebecca L. Avery
What Every Child Should Know Along The Way Gail Martin
Age Of Opportunity Paul David Tripp
Sacred Parenting Garry L. Thomas
Effective Parenting In A Defective World Chip Ingram
Growing Kid's God's Way Gary and Marie Ezzo
Dare To Discipline James Dobson
Leaving A Godly Legacy Charles Stanley
Love Must Be Tough James Dobson
The Heart of Anger Lou Privolo
Leaving The Light On Gary Smalley and John Trent
Parenting Isn't For Cowards James Dobson
The Wisdom Of Fenelon Fenelon (Mark Hamby reprint)
The Danger Of Raising Nice Kids Timothy Smith
Romancing Romancing Your Child's Heart Monte Swan
Bringing Up Boys James Dobson
Faith Training Joe White
The Gift Of The Blessing Gary Smalley and John Trent
Praying For The Next Generation Sally Michael
Raising A Modern Day Night Robert Lewis
Teaching To Change Lives Howard Hendricks
Proverbs For Parenting

Sacred Parenting

2007-03-03T18:00:00.000-08:00

"When I prayed only for protection, I had to fight off fear. When I prayed merely for God to change them, I lost sight of their strengths. Thanking God for them and specifically meditating on those qualities in their lives for which I am grateful has given me a much greater appreciation for the privilege of living with these children." -- Gary L. Thomas

Give em a brake

2007-03-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

It happened last night. I mean it happens to everyone at some point or another. Sometimes you know it is coming. Other times it comes out of nowhere. This was probably a little of both I guess. I just saw the signs too late. There I was, the next car to turn in what has become one of the busiest intersections in Boulder (with a little help from a mess of road construction, and the fact that it was about 6:00pm) when all of a sudden my dash lights start to blink and my car began to sputter. I was hoping the guy in front of me would hurry to turn so I could follow him and quickly get out of the intersection, but I guess he didn't feel the same urgency. After trying to keep my car from rolling with the emergency brake while keeping the car revved up and the clutch held in (which is all a little tough on a hill in a manual transmission, with one hand out of commission in a cast) you guessed it, it died. And it wasn't going to start again no matter how much I wanted it too.

I don't know if you have ever seen that commercial where the guy tries to pay for his food with cash rather than a credit card like everybody else and the whole place goes out of whack, but that came to mind for me at this point. Cars begin honking, tempers begin to raise, and I begin receiving the nicest looks ever, you know the kind that really make your day. Needless to say I called my wife who was in another town at the time to come and tow me out of this situation with our other car. A humiliating hour later we had pulled my car three blocks away to my home.

After reading some from the Bible this morning I was reminded of so many things I can learn from this wonderful experience. One, interruptions happen all the time, and it is not as much of what has happened as much as it is how am I going to react and what am I going to do with it. Another, was the fact that Jesus was always stopping to help people, people and situations that were not written into the day planner. In the hour that I was sitting helplessly in the intersection only one guy stopped to help. One out of hundreds that passed by. It really got me to thinking how many people I ignored because I, "didn't have time", or I "had to be somewhere", or "I just wanted to get home." Him offering help meant the world to me, and I want to share God's love and care with others in the same way. So thanks Julie for helping me out. Thanks you too, whoever you are, the one guy who stopped. And may this be a reminder to me to take advantage of interruptions that God allows in my journey, because I know I have many more to look forward to. I think I will close out this post with some words from Bleach.

Code of the Road

Just suppose this old car sputtered down the road...Just suppose
this old car--It refused to go...Wouldn't you hope that someone
would care enough to stop...And help you out...I'd like to think
that someone would take the time to stop...And help you out ~
It's the code, it's the code it's the Code of the Road...It's the
code, it's the Code of the Road...On the side of the road maybe
you'd like to know...A Hand is there, a Hand that cares...It's
the Code of the Road ~ Don't you know--everyone breaks down along
the road...Don't you know--everybody hurts along the road...
Wouldn't you hope that someone would care enough to stop...And
help you out...I'd like to think that someone would care enough
to stop...And help you out ~ In my weakness, Jesus cared enough
to stop...And help me out.

More reading on this topic.

A Beautiful Thing

2007-02-25T19:39:00.000-08:00

Music is a beatiful thing. Music with passion, exhilarating.
I have only been able to go to a couple shows since we have moved to Boulder(Mute Math, Trace Bundy, with opening act Kate Hurley), but if I get to continue to see bands like this I'm doing alright.

Attack of the Tumble Weeds

2007-02-24T14:24:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to put this up for a while, just now got around to it though. I've never seen so many tumble weeds in my life, and of course Kris tried hitting every one of them [in my car:) ]. Good times. The most fun I have had in western Nebraska in a while.

Busted!

2007-02-15T22:20:00.000-08:00

You should see the other guy though...:)
Today I received my first cast, if that doesn't make you stand out enough, they gave a bright red one. It happened last night in our basketball game, going for a steal. Ended up being a broken bone in my hand, but it's been a great season with the guys, so cool getting to know some new Boulderites. I guess a broken hand is better than a broken heart any day, thanks Julie for helping me out and lending me a hand.

Sheep

2007-01-30T22:28:00.000-08:00

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I'm a Christ Follower (Mac vs. PC Parody) Part 01

2007-01-30T21:41:00.000-08:00

Mac

2007-01-30T21:40:00.000-08:00

I did it. I wasn't sure about it. It actually took me about three months to decide (and a little longer to save up) and I can't tell you how many times I went back and forth. But after my laptop and Julie's desktop PC both crashed that was it. I decided I would take the plunge. And so far I love it. For any of you that have been wondering the same thing. I invite you over to this side. You wont be disappointed.

Mammoth Game

2007-01-25T22:06:00.000-08:00

I can honestly say that I don't know verry much at all about lacrosse. I got to go to my first game tonight with a few guys from our church. What I can theel you is that a 5 dollar ticket is well worth the money. Bring home another national championship boys.

How to Preach the Gospel to Yourself

2007-01-11T11:23:00.000-08:00

At Kaleo Church we teach that the Gospel isn't just a means of salvation, but it is the very way we grow as Christians. When Paul writes his letters to the Galatians or Corinthians, he addresses each problem in the Christian community with the gospel. (eg., Peter, who eats stops eating with the Gentiles isn't told to 'stop' which would be legalism, but is told that his actions aren't walking in line with the gospel. His motivation for change is a reminder of who Christ is and what he has done for us and how that sets us free by grace.)
From this a term used is, 'I need to preach the gospel to myself'. It refers to the need to go through the same process Paul does when he addresses sin. But how do we preach the gospel to ourselves, what exactly is the process? I decided to create a diagram to illustrate it.

How to Preach the Gospel to Yourself
The two critical events are repentance and faith. Errors people commonly fall in are (1) only dealing with the surface sin instead of the root sin and (2) preaching moralism to ourself instead of the gospel.
PART I DOWN THE SLOPE OF REPENTANCE - Objective: To see and confess that I am a bigger sinner than I thought.
1. See and Own Your Sin: Examine yourself in the mirror of God's Word, your negative emotions and attitudes, and the responses of others to you. Guard yourself against sin's deceitfulness: the tendency to water down God's standard, compare yourself to others, shift the blame or commit ourselves to trying harder.
2. See the Sin Beneath the Sin: Don't move too quickly to confess and receive forgiveness for the surface sin (cheap grace, "I'm just a sinner" attitude. If you are anxious, yes go to Phil. 4, but what is causing your anxiousness?) Push the 'Why?' question until you find what you are looking to other than Jesus (your functional messiah) for meaning and value in life.
3. Expose the Idols of your Heart: Idols always disappoint
They are weak: They can't deliver when you succeed; they can only raise the bar. They can't forgive you when you fail; they can only lower the boom.
They are harmful: They hurt you spiritually, emotionally and physically. They hurt others by undermining your ability to love.
They are Grievous: Most importantly, by going after these idols/other lovers you are saying to God: "Jesus is not enough. I also need _________ in order to be happy.
EXAMPLE: Athletics
Sin: I get frustrated when I don't win at sports.
Sin beneath the sin: I need the approval of others to feel better about myself.
IDOL: ACCEPTANCE of others/Self Worship
Weak: The approval is always based on your performance. If you fail, you get angry/rejected. When you succeed you need more/to continue to perform and receive value.
These idols will lead you into slavery James 4:1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? 2You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. 4You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
CONCLUSION: I am a much bigger sinner than I thought. I am a worthy recipient of God's judgment. Trying harder won't cut it. I am helpless and hopeless in myself. BUT there is One…
PART II UP THE SLOPE OF FAITH - Objective: To thank God that Jesus is a much bigger Savior than I thought.
1. Repentance is a gift: Pray for the gift of repentance. Do not 'try' to stop sinning, but ask God to change your heart. If the Holy Spirit does not address your heart, your repentance is only 'horizontal' and true gospel change will not happen. You may change for a season by your own 'will-power' but eventually you will become resentful or fall back into worshiping your false idols, which are your true 'functional messiahs'.
2. See Jesus as the only true Savior
Jesus lived for me. Think about and give thanks for specific ways Jesus has lived obediently where I have failed.
Jesus died for me. Think about Jesus' death on the cross for my specific sins and idolatry. Thank God that my sin has been punished once and for all.
God sees me in Jesus. Think about how God sees me in Jesus, clothed with His perfect righteousness. Thank Him specifically for how He provides for me in Christ that all my idols promised but could not deliver.
Jesus lives in me. Thank God that He does not leave me to live the Christian life on my own, but the Spirit of Christ now dwells in me. Ask Him to live His righteous life through me, specifically in the areas where I have confessed sin.
3. Gospel-motivated living: Embrace and know that the gospel is how you change (2 Cor. 3:18b), it is the gospel that empowers you to serve (2 Cor 3:5) and it is through the gospel that you meet God (2 Cor 3:18a; 4:6)

Article by Drew Goodmanson

Sweet Dreams

2006-12-14T01:31:00.000-08:00

It's 1:15 am and I have been laying in bed for the last 2 hours trying to get to sleep. I don't typically have this problem. In fact I am usually out before my head even hits the pillow. I believe my wife races unsuccessfully to beat me to sleep each night so she doesn't have to deal with my snoring or worse my grinding teeth. At least that's what she says. Although I have yet to hear these sounds. But tonight is different I lay here awake. Could have been the free "monster" energy drink I had at 9, or could be God wants me to pray for the people that continue to race through my thoughts, or it could be a chance to catch one of the moments that pass by all to quickly.

I decided to go into my sons room and just watch him. He is not really doing a whole lot. He is just laying there softly breathing, tucked into his warm blankets. It probably wouldn't be all that exciting to anyone else but to me it means the world. I found myself thinking back to the day we first learned that he was coming. Soon our family would grow, soon our lives would be forever changed, and soon a brand new life would enter this world. Asher Aaron Luse. Asher=Happy and Blessed. We thought that name fit the day he was born, but he continues to bring more meaning and depth to the name he carries with each new day. If you knew him you would say his name has to be happy or joy, because thats what he is. Whether beaming through his eyes, shining through his smile, or coming out of his laughter, you can't help but smile. Happy, blessed, I understand those words so much better. I thank God everyday for this blessing.

This little man has taught me so much about myself, my parents, and God my Father. My prayer each night is that this little guy would grow to love and serve God our Father so passionately with all of his heart. But for now I'll enjoy the moment, and treasure this gift. Sweet dreams.
I love you son.
Your Daddy

Happy Birthday Julie!

2006-11-29T19:56:00.000-08:00

We got a chane to get away to Orlando after thankgiving to celebrate Julz birthday. Even though it was only a short 2 days and record low temps I had the time of my life. Julie whay a joy to celebrate your life. I love you more than you will ever know. Happy Birthday. Adventure # 78.

The Black Sheep

2006-07-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

Cold rain on a Monday night in the Springs. Julie and I decided to chance not getting into The Black Sheep in Colorado Springs. I tried to order tickets earlier but it was already sold out. So we decieded to head south and see if we could come up with tickets. We met some incredible people while waiting in line. And we decied if we didn't get in we would just listen from outside.

Amazingly enough through the generosity of some very nice people we were able to get tickets and find a seat.

Now I know there are a lot of different views about Rob Bell pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church and some of the things he teaches, But I gotta say that I do echo his thought that God wants to be a part of everything in our lives, yet we often overlook Him or put Him in a box. We can't put God in a box. We can't compartmentalize our faith. God wants to be in every aspect of our lives, and I desire for Him to be seen in every part of my life. Rob thanks for making people think Thanks for making me think.