A day in the life of...

New Eyes/The Blind Men

2006-01-30T14:26:00.000-06:00

Just a quick post: I will have to look up some biblical corrolations, if you got any let me know.

I had Lasik eye surgery on friday, by early saturday morning I could see better than I had since I was seven years old. Even contacts couldn't be this good. I wonder if this is how the blind men were that Christ healed. Were they able to see colors and the world but were unable to recognize objects due to an inability for the eyes to focus properly or did they see at all. I must also thank the Lord for the opportunity to have the surgery done and for the benefits that it provides now and in the future. At work this morning, yes I am already back at work two and a half days after surgery, my boss stated that "It is easy to grow complacent in the fact that we have had such a blessing and opportunity. That we need to be continually thankful." I am glad to be working under and with Christian men. Another thing to be thankful for.

God bless and may the Lord continue to remove the scales from our eyes to see his glory and plans for our lives.

I John---Being Human

2006-01-17T15:51:00.000-06:00

Walking in the light
5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.
6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth.
7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all[b] sin.
8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.
9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
10If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

Only one man was without sin and he took on the penalty for all our sins. The thing that struck me the most this morning as I read it is the ending of this passage..AND HIS WORD HAS NO PLACE IN OUR LIVES. That is a saddening and hopeless situation. Do I daily face up to my shortcomings or do I make it as the word is irrelevant and useless.

I will finish with a couple of excerpts from "Being Human" by Ranald Macaulay and Jerram Barrs

Because of this (materialistic) view of reality, people seek meaning in the accummulation of material things, in the continual stimulation of the senses and emotions, and in the techniques which are supposed to condition them to change.

Many Christian homes are little more than passing points for family members who lead totally seperate lives.

Others...turn to spiritual experiences to try to restore a spiritual dimension to their lives which, apart from attendance at church, differ so little from the lives of non-Christians.

Our 'calling' is the same as Adam's was. It is to serve him with our whole life, to love him, to enjoy him, to reflect his character.

Mentoring

2005-12-30T14:16:00.000-06:00

2 Timothy 2:2

You have heard me teach many things that have been confirmed by many witnesses. Teach these great truths to trustworthy people who are able to pass them on to others.

"In the union of divine purpose and human frailty, God shapes us into the likeness of his Son. He uses people to stretch us, to encourage us, and to lend accountabiliy. A friend older in the faith can see possibilities in us where we see only ineffectual lines on a sheet of paper. Progress in the Christian life comes when we risk relationships with fellow believers who help us bring the picture into fuller dimension.

The apostle Paul knew that. The New Testament letters to Timothy reflect the elder-brotherly concern Paul felt for his young friend. He invested in Timothy, just as he knew Timothy would in turn do for others. The risk was worth it for Paul. It's worth it for us to seek mentors and to be mentors. "

Randal C. Working

Reflection:
Who mentors me? What, if anything, makes me hesitate to risk mentoring another?

Prayer:
Dear God, you have made yourself more real to me through the investment of others in my life. Provide people who will shape me more into your likeness, and lead me to others for whom I can make a difference.

The Church

2005-12-14T11:43:00.000-06:00

In my leadership meditation book this morning it used Phil 2:3-4 to describe to purpose of the church.

3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Reflection: In what areas am I expecting the church to meet my needs? Are any of these areas impinging on the church's ability to reach out?

Prayer: Discomfort me Lord, when I want to get comfortable, and help me to use my church not merely as my personal religious social club but as a rescue station for those who desperately need you.

"The church is not a museum for finished products, It's a hospital for the sick" Bruce Larson.

I saw another qoute on a church a couple of weeks ago, "This is not a shrine for saints, but a hospital for sinners." My thoughts on this come as I have a desire to reach out to the lost, but feel as though I am trapped in the walls of protection provided by friends and 'the fellowship'. Why do I feel as though, we as a church and youth group focus on ourselves and not on others---My personal application would be to examine my life and see what I can change in this area.

As I continue to study the word and speak with friends and family I would ask for input on the purpose and role of the church. (Has anyone posted anything on this--I can't remember if there was a round table on Luke's blog or not?)

Matt 9:11-13
11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?
12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.
13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Mark 2:16-17
16 And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?
17 When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Luke 5:27-32
27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.
30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Hanky please!!

2005-12-05T12:50:00.000-06:00

This last weekend started out with helping out with babysitting at the Peoria church so that couples could take some time to be with one another. It was a most blessed time...especially since I really, REALLY love kids. Saturday I spent the morning reading and hanging out with the Koch family on their farm. We toured their grandma's farm next door, ran on ice til it fall in on us, had snowball fights, and crawled through waterways. I then went to Walmart with the Morton young group to shop for a couple of hurting families. We then went to Brittany and Morgan Kaiser's house to wrap the presents and hang out. Several of the group graded bible studies from the prison ministry, while most of us wrapped and played games(they joined in afterwards). I went to Morton church and had a wonderful time talking with the ministers, older gentlemen, and a couple of guys my age. This mainly included Paul Grimm, Dane Zeller, Ted Witzig Jr., Ted Hirstein, and Dennis Fike. I then hung out at the Koch's house again and read more. Back to the Morton church for a wonderful time of caroling in the community and then a chili supper.

Where the hanky comes in is returning to work today after being with friends (family) the whole weekend, it has been hard in the first day to not have someone to talk to 'right there'. I have been living on my own and the feeling(s) of loneliness come and go. Sometimes it hits like a ton of bricks...it is also included or accommpanied usually with guilt from sin and selfishness. As I continue to grow and learn as a Christian, I am trying to understand how God is talking to me. He of course speaks through his word and the Holy Spirit. How though does he use friends and people, media, etc? That is were I am feeling at a total loss. I do not feel any particular leadings in this area. From a reading today, a man's son got his leading from a billboard and a bumper sticker. The reflection of the day is: Am I engaged in those spiritual disciplines that can help my spirit to be attentive to God's leading? I am such a 'child' in this area!!!! Prayer from reading: Holy God, there are many 'signs' that might be from you --or might not. Grant us the discernment to seperate the imagined from the real, and the wisdom to test everthing according to your revealed Word.

Sharing My Faith Effectively Part 2

2005-12-01T14:36:00.000-06:00

CC=Clear Communication

We must be able to present the gospel in a manner that can be understood. I would not go to speech class and speak on riding horses if I have not studied how to ride horses or practiced my speech.
We need to discover our approach or method to sharing our faith:

*confrontational-Peter (Matt 16:15-16)
15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

*intellectual-Paul (Acts 17:16-34)
16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. 17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him. 18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection. 19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?....

*testimonial-Blind Man (John 9:25-27)
25 He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. 26 Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? 27 He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?

*relational-Matthew (Luke 5)
Friends bring man with palsey before Christ.

*invitational-Samaritan woman (John 4)
27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her? 28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, 29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? 30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.

*Service-Dorcas (Acts 9:36)
36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. 43 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.

We must be prepared to have spiritual conversations. Therefore, PRACTICE sharing. Pray. And be willing to be used and led by the spirit.

Sharing My Faith Effectively Part 1

2005-11-30T15:24:00.000-06:00

Why is it important to share our faith?

1. Because people matter to God.

Luke 15
Vs. 1-7 "The lost sheep"
Vs. 8-10 "The lost coin"
**vs 10 calls friends and rejoices

Vs. 11-32 "The prodigal son"

2. The cost/benefit ratio is outstanding
My personal costs: time, risk, complications, pride
My personal benefits:purpose, growth, eternal investments

Effective sharing (ES)=HP+CP+CC(tommorow)

HP=high potency
To be able to share our faith we must know what we believe in. How are we able to increase our potency/knowledge? Scripture reading, scripture meditation, **scripture memory**

CP=Close Proximity
Luke 5: Sometimes people came to Christ, but most often those he ministered to/healed were those that were around him as he went about his ministry. i.e the blind men by the road.

Who is around us that we have the opportunity to minister to? Both in WORD and DEED!!!
How can I increase my CP with others?

CC=Clear Communication (more to come)

Lord, Thank you for those that you have put around me in each station of my life. May I first be an example to them with my actions. Then may I also share with them of the hope that I have. Let me not be ashamed of your Truth. Thank you for your son who did not say "that is too hard" but instead came to this earth to be a man and share your wonderful news with man on earth. amen.

Conflict Resolution

2005-11-22T13:43:00.000-06:00

Peoria YG Bible Study Friday Nov. 18th
7 Stages of conflict resolution

If there exists a conflict, You go alone and in private to that person with a spirit of reconcilation.

#1: If there is a conflict
Don't remember exactly how Tim had put this, but BOTH parties must have a problems with the issue at hand. If it ends up that only one person has an issue with it, then it is most likely something of a personal issue(typically in this case PRIDE!!!)

#2: YOU
You, a person, must meet or call the individual with which you would like to discuss something with.

#3 Go
You sitting around will get nothing accomplished. You waiting for them to come to you may result in you waiting around. Take the initiative!!!

#4 to person
Not to your best friend, or mom or dad, or the elder (unless they are the one you need to talk to it about).

#5 Alone
No need to take your friends with you, or your family, or your boss, or anyone for that matter. This is to be between you and that person.

#6 In private
No need to get others involved in a something that does not involve them. Or to make something public that should remain private (keeps things from becoming gossip or hearsay)

#7 with an attitude of reconsiliation
You must not go with the attitude of I am right and they are wrong, indeed much of the time it is that both are right and both wrong. This attitude will ease the tension and keep from escalading the emotions.

All this need be prefaced with much prayer, indeed while disscussing it.

Matt. 18:15-20**
Acts 16:37
Prov. 20:3
Matt5:21-26
Matt 7:3-5 Go in Love, pure motive

Titus 3:2 Speak with grace

Biblical examples: Paul and Barnabas
Abram and Lot

For a conclusion read I Cor 12: Different gifts for different people.
Different people to serve different functions.

May we all come to find our strengths and weaknesses and use them to build up those around us.

Giving

2005-11-18T16:33:00.000-06:00

Prov. 3:9
Honor the Lord with thy substance and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.
Duet. 14:22
Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year.
Duet. 14:28-30
'Every three years the firstfruit tithe was to be brought to the temple to be given to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow.

Prov. 3: 27-28
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to so it.
Say not to thy neighbor, Go, and come again, and tomorrrow I will give: when thou hast it by thee.

What is the definition of our increase? Our gross income, net take home income, or expendable cash? The taxes in the OT like the widow tax can be comproble to our Social Security tax today, I will given last weekend a couple other temple taxes that were likened to those taken out of our paychecks each pay period.

We are freed however to give out of the abundance that the Lord has given us, whether we have much or little.

Mark 12: 41-44 Rich cast in much/widow cast in two mites.
*43-44 Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury; for they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

What are we casting in? Who are we casting to?

May each give as the Lord puts on his heart.

Power of Prayer Every Man God's Man

2005-11-09T16:13:00.000-06:00

Arthur Powell Davis tapped into the power of the Colorado river with the Hoover Dam. We have the opportunity to 'tap' into the power of prayer.

Eph. 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurablly more that all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.

We are promised many things when we pray(non-exclusive):
To be Rescued and aided: Psalm 91:14-15
To have Renewed hope and redirected future: Jeremiah 29:11-14
To have Personal response and revealed truth: Jeremiah 33:3
To have Relief and rest:Matthew 11:28-30
To Receive what we request: Matthew 21:22
To have anxiety Replaced with peace: Philippians 4:6-7

We need to 'Think Different" as the Apple computer ads say.

The Motive in Prayer:Relationship or Just Relief?

Do I go to the Lord in prayer only in times of need or pressure?
or
Do I go to the Lord as a friend; to talk about the day, plans coming up...like I would talk to Megan or Luke about visiting Champaign or planning a trip to Denver.

The Practice: Attitude or Just Activity?
Prayer not linked to just activites or one time events, but it is to be continual.

Luke 18:1 ...that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

Eph 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Sirit, and watching thereunto with all perserverance and supplication for all saints.

Colossians 1:3 ...praying always for you.

Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.

1 Thess. 5:17-18 Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Not tapping into the power of constant prayer is like trying to drive without power steering. Things might get done but it is nearly impossible.

Comments? Questions?

2005-11-07T16:34:00.000-06:00

For those of you that were unable to make it this weekend, not a lot to say now.

For those that were able to make it, thanks for coming. Everyone of you have touched me in some way....THANKS!!!

I just want to open up maybe a quick 'thing' about the testimonies. Afterwards many came to me and expressed an opinion of the dicotomy that came from Mike and my discourse and the typical testimony.
1) Can anyone please define that difference a little more?
2) Is it maybe something that should occur more often? If you consider the difference good?
3) Do you consider the difference to be beneficial or 'good'?
4) Are there any other comments or questions that were not spoken of during the weekend or really short time to spend talking with each individual?
During the testimony I paused in a couple of instances when asked a question because Wayne and I had not gone in such detail on a topic. I considered the entire experience a wonderful eye opener: what I really got from it...I need to be able to relate my story with everyone, not just those that are of the faith and know the 'lingo'. How may I do this? I am not entirely sure!!!

Sam emailed me today and expressed a joy for all that stayed at his house. Thank you all for being flexible, I had a great time as did the whole Furrer family.

Random thoughts n verses from the last couple days

2005-11-02T16:24:00.000-06:00

First I am thankful for those in the church that have taken the time to send me letters, emails, and calls of encouragement for this weekend.

I am thankful that my mom and dad will be able to attend testimonies (non-members). My brothers may be in attendance for the baptism (non-believers).

As the Israelites had a Tent of Meeting, where is my meeting place with the God? Do I have one? Three keys to a personal 'tent of meeting'
1)Planned(when and where), schedule an appointment with God if neccessary.
2)Fixed time (developes commitment through routine)
3)Uninterrupted ( turn off the phone, the radio, the stereo, the tv, have a note pad handy for the random thoughts that create rabbit trails)

Seen on a church sign outside a church in Peoria, IL on Adams St.:
This is not a shrine for saints, but a hospital for sinners.

May we remember Mark 2:17 "When Jesus heard in, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Is our purpose here on earth to keep those that are the Lord's on the straight and narrow or are we to be a light and example to those that are on the wide and broad way? Matt 7:7

From NIV:
Prov 13:20 " He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.

Prov 18:24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. ( also in an text message from Rachel Clough this week) I have made many friends in the church and continue to try and maintain family ties and old relationships(Christian mentors), I am beginning to feel overwhelmed by the ties I have in so many places.

Prov 20:1 Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise. Hmm, obvious for some but....

Prov 25: 28 Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control. Previous posts on walls and importance and FRED WITZIG'S talk at the Morton invite...WOW

Job 31:1 I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl
KJV I made a covenant with mine eyes. Why then should I think upon a maid?
WOW now that is a covenant!!

Weddings, Wall, and Winners

2005-10-31T16:44:00.000-06:00

This weekend was filled with many friends and family. I was able to spend time hanging out with Rachel Clough and Liz Koch friday over pizza and a jazz band. Rachel was on her way through to Taylor for Jeff and Bethany's wedding. It was a blessed time of sharing.
Saturday started with a wonderful men's study at the Peoria church at 7 am on Romans 3:9-20. May we all be grateful that although we have ALL fallen short of the glory of God, we have been redeemed by the Lamb. Then to breakfast with Benji and Marv Hodel and Rachel. Then I traveled to Elmwood, IL where Jerod Koch was running for cross country sectionals (he won, has advanced to state this next weekend and is now ranked 1st in the state). I then traveled from there to Elgin, Il to my grandmother's house to get ready for my cousin's wedding. It was an interesting ceremony in that it had no religious context...oh and lots of beer. After the cutting of the cake and before the dance party started a few of us returned to my grandma's house to hang out before bed.

Sunday morning was spent realizing my phone automatically changed times and so I really didn't have an extra hour to sleep(I shared a twin bed with my cousin Clint...we are about the same size)!!!! Although several stated they would be unable to come next weekend, I recieved a lot of encouragement and notes of prayer at church for my testimony and baptism. After church I took a short time to visit Todd Shambach in the hospital with a couple other YG guys. He had fallen off a ladder friday afternoon and had fractured his skull and had blood on the brain and in the ear from hitting a table saw and the floor on his way down. Nothing serious now, but in constant pain. Please keep him in your prayers as well as his wife of only a couple months.
The morning service was led by Todd Stoller from Latty, OH and was on II Samuel 7:1-29 and Matthew 7:7-end. From Samual we were asked what we were building our house of and on: the solid rock or sinking sand. And from matt we were encouraged about being on the narrow way: it is not to be taken that we are restricted but that instead of being told to do this, and this and this as in the OT, we are given the opportunity to be free in loving God!! We were also encouraged to take stock of the fruit that were are growing...as the tree is know by its fruit(good or bad).

Galatians 5:22&23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness,goodness, faith, meekness, temperance:against such there is no law.

My grandmother on our way out the door encouraged me to read this chapter and meditate on it for this week before my testimony and baptism.

May the Lord be your rock, your tower, your strength today and tommorrow and forevermore.

Every man, God's man

2005-10-28T12:30:00.000-05:00

I am still mulling over the concepts and verses and commentary that the writer's of this book portrayed. It seems difficult for me lately to organize or connect the many teachings that I have heard.

The key components that I would say I covered in the last couple of days were:

Check out Taryn's blog for this one as well:
1) Prov 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so he is.
We must marinate our minds in the Word and Christ. Ted Bundy soaked his mind with pornography-serial killer. Billy Graham immersed himself in what the bible teaches-amazing man of God and evangelist.
Appl: What are we soaking in?

2) Prov 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend...
Heb 10:23-25 Let us not give up meeting together...
I Cor. 12:21 The 'body'
We are called to be connected to one another in fellowship, encouragement, praise, correction, guidance, etc.

3) Men become Men in the company of Men (not in the company of women)
Men's groups are a place for the 4 C's:
Confession
Consistancy
Caring
Completion
(CW, Morton, Blogs--ring a bell?)

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Lifestyle

2005-10-25T16:54:00.000-05:00

I heard this first at a Peoria bible study on Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. And then again in a letter from a friend.

It seems to be similar (in it's structure and intent) to the 5 stages of relationships from Ted Witzig, Jr. given at College Weekend

5 Levels of a (Godly) Lifestyle:
1)SPIRITUAL--includes:prayer, bible reading, sharing the gospel, singings, church
2)EDIFYING--good works, world relief, etc
3)BUSY-(distractions that CAN violate time w/family)--excessive work, hobbies, vacation, hunting, gardening, shopping, etc.
4)WORLDLY-(things not mentioned in Bible, but they violate precepts of the bible)--sports, t.v.
Galations 5: 19-21 (things of earth i.e. revelings and emulations?)
I Thess 5:22--abstain from all appearances of evil
5)IMMORAL/EVIL-(against 10 commandments, Gen 20; Eph. 5:3&4)

Our Body the Temple

2005-10-25T16:08:00.000-05:00

The first of topics comes from Peoria YG bible study at Jimmy Huber's on friday the 21st: A few of the verses from a handout that he provided.

1)Matt 27:51 ...veil of temple torn assunder while Christ gave up ghost.

2)I Cor. 3:16&17 ...temple of God

3)I Cor. 6:15 ...members of Christ

4)I Cor 6:19 ...temple of Holy Spirit

5)II Cor. 6:16&17 ...what agreement hath the temple of God with idols?
come out from them and be seperate

6) Romans 6: 18&22, I Cor. 7:22-23 ...free from sin and servants of God (not man)

Thoughts: How are we caring for God's temple? What are putting in?

Are we attached to things(idols)? What do we need to be seperated from?
Are we servants of a)righteousness b)God and c)Christ. or are we servants of d)man?

Our prayer should be:
Psalm 119:23 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

College Weekend

2005-10-17T16:08:00.000-05:00

Started once and then tech guy did some work on the computer so I get to start over after having left the computer for 8 hours.

Got off work in time to pick Megan up at the Peoria church since we seemed to be the only ones interested in going early to Champaign. I wanted to get back to see friends and family as it is only the second weekend I was to be back since moving to Galesburg and since I being announced for baptism. Drove to church to eat pizza and help set up for the weekend. Lots of fun and fellowship with the Champaign YG. Met a couple new people...Steff Kellenberger(Jaq's sis) and their friend Julie, and reaquainted myself with the other new faces. Then to 709 to hang out and work on the programs for the speakers...there til 2:30. Then went home. Oh and I finally met Britni Gutwein...right forgive the spelling but HEY!!!

Liz's car had died on her on her way to CW. It took us from 8 am to 3 pm to get things worked out so that she might have a car again monday. So we missed the first three speakers, but they were taped SOOOO can I get a copy someone. We made it in time to hear a wonderful and powerful talk from Ted Witzig Jr from Morton? about relationships with the opposite sex. Then discussion groups and dinner. Then fellowship and singing and finally a cap off with DeWayne Dill talking about our relationship with the unsaved. Then more hanging out at church and then 709 again. Got home a little after 12?
Church at 9:45 with DeWayne and a minister from Remington? Totally spaced on the name now. Spent time talking with a couple of people from the champaign congregation getting encouragement and advice and planning things for baptism weekend. Those left after church split into two groups and went to nursing homes to sing. I was able to go to the Inman on University and our group had a very special time with several wonderful residents. Then a snack at church. Then a little hanging out at 308 and then a couple hours of sand volleyball. wow lots of and thens maybe I could get a couple of fortune cookies. Dinner out at the Courier Cafe with Scott, Kaits, Dave, Megan, Morgan, Sam, and a couple others was wonderful.

Then being so tired from being a little sick I allowed Megan to drive to my brother's work to drop off some tools before we left town and then all the way to Kait's house. We then hung out there and Josh, Mark, and Matt all came over to hang out. It was cool to be able to hang out with the guys a little more. Skiing in Jan???

And then another drive home starting after 1 am and reaching home at 2:45 so that I can get to work at 7 am after a wonderful nap.

Whew that was a lot but man I wish it could again have been longer. May we all cherish the time that we are able to spend with each other and continue to live so that every moment counts.

Feel free to also add comments about the speakers and your weekend as well.

AH

2005-09-26T17:25:00.000-05:00

More will come later as I have time, but here goes.

Thank you Joe for leading the events at Taylor this weekend, again a wonderful time.
Thank you Darin for having me and the other guys at your house.
Thank you Megan and Kaits for allowing us to drive 'your' vans.

I would like to send a shout out to Josh and Liz and Jimmy and Dave and Benji and Emily and Jodie and Katie for the wonderful time spent together in the cars this weekend. Even the last 30 minutes before we stopped at the gas station....I was about to explode and none of you spoke up....GRRR

Liz thanks for having us over at your house to hang out...even though you probably won't read this :) :) :)

Blessed Assurance

2005-09-19T16:04:00.000-05:00

I would start this post out with thanking Benji Hodel for his hospitality this weekend. I had a wonderful time with him after spending a spectacular evening with several of the Peoria YG at the Herman's Barn. There was some spectacular volleyball and even more spectacular conversations primarily involving the guys. Evolution and intelligent design were discussed and witnessing and gifts and wow the knowledge that some of the brother's have is amazing...it gives me something to strive for. Church on sunday and the ordination of brother Tim as Elder was a blessed time of fellowship with several of the Peoria congregation. I continually look forward to the day that I can greet everyone as a brother or sister in Christ.

May we all take the time to share about what is going on in our lives with those we interact with every day. I have had the privilage of speaking with a couple of my co-workers in the last week of church and religious things...may this be a time of growth for myself and them. I happened to run into one of my bosses on the golf course this weekend and played a round with him and one of his friends and another guy that we all did not know. It was a blessing to meet them all and to get to know them a little.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes.

Sarah, Would you be able to get me info about things that are going on with the Roanoke YG? anything would be cool...

The good and the bad

2005-09-15T19:55:00.000-05:00

We will have to start with the good and the GREAT:

A) Live 3 minutes from work.
B) Lifting at 5:30 in the morning is a great way to start the day.
C) Visited cousin(s) in Garden Grove this week (before Britany left for school in Denver.
D) Meeting lots of the Peoria congregation (awesome evening with guys after church on sunday Thanks Chad!!!!)
E) Getting to know people at work.
F) Payday tomorrow
G) Birthday tomorrow.
H) Great readings and sermons.

The bad or not so good:
A) Living 50 minutes from church, 120 minutes from both parents, 200 minutes from Garden Grove, 660 minutes from Denver CO.
B) Working out at 5:30 in the morning.
C) Still had to be at work tuesday at 7 am after getting to Garden Grove at 9 monday night.
D) So many new people to meet (I have so many friends already and in so many places...I feel stretched thin already).
E) Getting to know some of the people at work.
F) $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ and its management.
G) Nothing planned for birthday...nothing really new there though.
H) Application of lessons and scripture, falling into lethargy and sin.

My reading verses from 9-14-05

Job 27:8-9
For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul? Will God hear his cry when trouble cometh upon him?

Job 28:28
And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, THAT is wisdom; and to depart from evil is UNDERSTANDING.

A friend's reading verses for same day:
Hebrews 11:25
Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, then to enjoy the pleasure of sin for a season.

Psalm 32:5
I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.

The thoughts are so easy to comprehend, yet I feel I fail so often.

Confess our sins to :
God?
Brothers?
Family?
Ministers (Elder)?

so maybe A Day in the Life is a stretch

2005-09-08T07:17:00.000-05:00

So it has been a long time: short synopsis since last time.

Thank you to all of the Champaign people for your fond farewell and your good wishes. I was and am deeply touched. Pray that I may find the same in Peoria.

ANNOUNCED FOR BAPTISM: NOVEMBER 5 AND 6
COME ONE AND ALL.
Week #2 working for the city of Galesburg as engineer.
Planning retirement already [I'm too young for this kind of thing :( ]
Officially moved out of mom's house [very tough :( :( ].
Living in apartment in town because required by work.Therefore 45 min drive to church in Peoria.
Two wednesdays and two late nights out chatting.
One short trip to Elgin, IL to see family with aunt, uncle, and four cousins in a van (lots of HONK IF... signs).
One long day of absolutely nothing since I am still kind of moving in and not really connected to people and events in the area.
Get first paycheck on my birthday...what a present.

1 Sheep....2 Sheep...3 Sheep...Run

2005-08-18T11:32:00.000-05:00

I was blessed to have visited my family in Garden Grove, IA this last weekend. I attended church on sunday and had a wonderful time in their small church. Then we headed up to the state fair so that we could see my four cousins show their sheep. They did very well this year, better than last year. This will be Britany's last year of showing in 4-H, but she is planning on showing in FFA while she still can. She won second place in the exhibition which combined scores from several categories. We all spent time walking around the fair and seeing the sights, no rides but we did see some other shows and enjoying the fair food.

I have a tentative start date of the 29th of this month in Galesburg and will be getting a new address out to people as soon as I figure out where I am staying- well more like living. Galesburg? or Peoria?

For those that would like to come, we would love to have you, Erin Metzger and myself will be getting baptized the first weekend of november...Mike Leman from Denver is planning to come out for testimonies I am really looking forward to everything!!!

Another week, another dollar, a new job

2005-08-09T12:12:00.000-05:00

I have continued working over the last week cleaning apartments for a campus property management firm and have had an interesting time with interesting coworkers.

I have been blessed with spending time with Scottie, Megan, and Katrina almost every day and then with other young group people at volleyball on tuesday and thursday afternoons. I was also blessed with the offering of a job in Galesburg, as a city engineer and project manager. I will be starting later this month or beginning of september. If you know of anyone in the Peoria or Galesburg area that is looking for someone to live with or rent something out to LET ME KNOW!!!! It has been a blessing and relief to have the first weekend of november almost entirely nailed down as a date for baptism...so get the word out.

Last night Sylvia and John from Empty Tomb came and spoke to a few of the young group at the Saltshaker in Champaign about a program to encourage tithing and the giving of money to missions...To support the GREAT COMMISION. It was a wonderful reminder of who's money we have in our possession and the stewardship that we have of that money. If the entire body of christ in the US tithed 10 percent, it is estimated that more than $152 billion dollars more would be available to be used by churches. WOW!!! Staggering....

What are you spending God's money on????

A weekend home

2005-07-30T13:15:00.000-05:00

A short span of five weeks and now I am back in Champaign for a sunday service. Traveling mainly to Elgin and KS have been a wonderful blessing with family and friends.

Thursday I had an interview in Galesburg, IL and since it is a 2 hour drive I took the whole day off. I have been working a temp job for a property management firm in Champaign cleaning between semesters. Last week was full of painting everything gloss white in a ZBT fraternity house. The interview went really well, I think, and they are getting back with me after reviewing 'stuff' and another interview. Then I get to talk to the firm in Champaign that I am also trying to get hired on at.

I forgot my boots in the Kieser's van when moving stuff to my truck in Springfield and Loren forgot a book and so on my way back home from the interview I dropped by there house...in the middle of nowhere!!!! It was a blessing to see the family again and stay for dinner---Thanks again Mark and Cathy---

After some rousing games of spoons{thank goodness not forks} and hearts I headed home. I did however stop by Jeff Weigand's home in Goodfield as the canceled tuesday volleyball had been rescheduled. With eight people we played a couple of good games

Luke--Sorry I didn't have your camera.

Today I got to help my temp job boss move and even though it was warm it was a lot of fun. He was only moving three houses down the road. And he paid really, really well.

Kansas Rocks

2005-07-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

First I would like to admit to the patheticness of my own blog. I have not taken the time to tool around with the program and software. The lack of internet access has been a cursing and a blessing though.

Secondly, the all those that went from central illinois this weekend to KS (Luke, Kirby, Jenny, Loren, Megan) thanks for the spectacular time. All events and time together were a blessing...even losing in thumb war and the front seat...these memories are already being forgotten to be covered by the talks, randomely starting shavers, and the hanging out with new people.

For those that may by chance read this from KS, Thank You for the wonderful time this weekend and especially for the work and effort that you put in to keep the weekend rockin'.

See you all when the Lord next brings us together...Ashley see you in Bloomington or there abouts...and may you have enough.

Not dead yet

2005-07-11T09:22:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I have last posted something on my blog. First I no longer have a computer with internet at home and must go on campus to find one, ouch. Then I usually dont have the time to post something. Many times I also wonder what to post if I am posting something.
To continue with the testimony baptism section: I am meeting with Wayne Banwart on Thursday for lunch to chat and then with Darren Plattner on Friday for lunch to chat as well. Next tuesday the 19th Erin Metzger and I will be talking with the three champaign ministers.

This last weekend was a wonderful weekend that I got to spend camping at Kickapoo State park with my dad and several guys(adults and kids) from the Champaign church. We had foil dinners and then hung out around the campfire and around midnight broke out the glowinthedark football to play keep away. After everyone went to bed the coons came out to pick out the garbage cans and the scraps of dinner that fell on the ground, so Martin and I decided to hunt a couple with baseball bats...he almost took off his own foot trying to hit one going over it. I got one and made the early morning news (at camp and church...one of the ministers kids, Caleb Plattner was there and thought killing a coon was the coolest...I won't argue that one).

Well that's it for now and i hope to drop in and see and hear from y'all soon.

Tar and feathers

2005-06-22T17:28:00.000-05:00

Today I turned down what many have deemed a lucritive offer from a firm in Kankakee. 15 minutes later I was called by a firm in Chicago that had an opening. I am however looking in the Champaign area...or Denver...or Des Moines..LOL

Of much importance My brother and I will have succesfully completed reroofing the rest of our house early tommorrow morning. Supercalifragilist...yeah I will just say sweetness.

For those that deem it important, I am speaking with my elder tonight for the last of our one-on-one sessions. Next step speak with all of the ministers in Champaign and pick a date. All prayers are appreciated.

Old timers

2005-06-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

WOW Do I feel really old or something else? We will have to see how this blog thing works out!!! I now have the something old and something new...now on to the rest------- Cheerio