Surprise! The traffic report says slow going on the Deerfoot!

There are a lot of things I love about living in the south. I love the area. I love my cute little place. I especially love my roommate. I love that my friends and my church are all relatively close. Most days I don't even mind the drive to work.

Most days.

And then there's days like today. I don't understand why the Deerfoot is such a troublesome stretch of road. The city and province just finished pitching tons of money into a traffic safety audit to be told that people drive too fast and that they should put photo radar cameras up on the overpasses. Let's be honest. That's not going to fix the problem. People are still going to drive fast. Personally, I don't even think that driving 110 is the problem...at least not all of it but, before I start calling people names or post something that Jesus would be disappointed with, let me get back to my story.

Where was I?

Oh yes...most days.

Today wasn't one of those days that I enjoyed the drive. Typically it's 30 - 45 minutes, I listen to some good music or something on my iPod and I'm home. Not today.

Two hours from start to finish.

Sometimes standing still.

Hot, hot, hot (which I normally love) + no air condition = sticky and grumpy for 2 hours.

Unfortunate.

More unfortunate was finding out that south bound Deerfoot was closed because of a gas spill AFTER I was already stuck in the traffic ON the Deerfoot.

Thanks for the warning guys.

It was so bad that in some places, people had pulled their cars off the road and were lounging in the grass, I can only presume, until traffic started to move again.

All in all, I think I stayed pretty calm. I read. Yes, I read in my car. I listened to the radio announcers who, I must admit, were quit witty for the drive home. I prayed. I tried to shift around so I didn't stick to my seat. I even wrote a poem. Let me share it with you.

Sitting on the Deerfoot

Reading a leadership book

"Who reads a book on the Deerfoot?"

I think as my car overheats and I cook

All around me no one is moving

Traffic report says that there's been a spill

While it's not fun to sit on the Deerfoot,

I'm glad I'm not the one footin' the bill

I drive this road every day

The trip should be rather short

Does someone need to remind Calgarians

That driving isn't a full contact sport?

Okay, so it's not very good but it kept me from doing something stupid or getting overly grumpy. When you're sitting in a car, roasting your brain with 110 degree temperatures (that's Fahrenheit...it was my momma's first language and I picked it up too), you can't expect genius.

Anyway, it's a good thing that traffic being that crappy is an unusual thing!

"The greatest moments of the human spirit may be deduced from the greatest moments in music."

Aaron Copland

"Music is edifying, for from time to time it sets the soul in operation."
John Cage

Run for the Cup

This is a tough call for me. You've got Anaheim and Ottawa, neither team a favorite but Anaheim has Pronger and if they win it's likely he'll get all kinds of awards and recognition, not to mention the Conn Smythe Trophy and we can't let that happen but then Ottawa has Comrie and, well, arg, but then Ottawa is Canadian and have been shafted so many times so you just sort of feel for them but then Anaheim has 19 Canadian players, the most in the NHL this year and so it would be good for them but then....arg...

Let's be honest, I'm still stinging from the fact that last year this team we were cheering on my boys in blue and gold and now, well, we're not.

All in all, I think I pick Ottawa...in 6...

Music Makes the World Go Round

"Music is the best means we have of digesting time."

W. H. Auden

I've found that lately. Music reflects so much of who I am. It's a way for me to absorb what's going on. It's also a way for me to release what's going on. Odd, isn't it? I find the more emotional I am, whether that is up or down, the more I crave music in my life.

Lately, that's meant buying a lot of music. I am so thankful for iTunes gift cards and gift certificates for Best Buy!

Here's a bit of a list of what I've picked up in the last couple months:

Peter Bjorn and John, Writer's Block
Sam Roberts, We Were Born In Flame
Dierks Bentley, Modern Day Drifter
Paulo Nutini, These Streets
Vicki Beeching (great worship stuff...and it's nice for me to find a GIRL doing it well!I feel a little inspired...)
The Killers, Sam's Town
John Mayer, The Village Sessions
Pirates of the Caribbean: At Word's End Soundtrack
Catch and Release Soundtrack (so good!)

...and then some random singles courtesy of iTunes...Future of Forestry, MIKA, Blue Rodeo, Plain White T's, Jeremy Riddle...

A friend of mine passed the "Off the Clock, Vol. 1" disc from Starbucks on to me a while back and caught me up on some up and coming artists. Much appreciated!

I borrowed my brother's John Mayer, Room For Squares...sooo good...and Dave Berard's new Hillsong United CD...

Then at YC this past weekend, I got to enjoy some of the main stage performers: David Crowder (most unique!), Lincoln Brewster (Most surprising musicianship...wow!), United Live (always a fav), and Toby Mac (just plain fun. He puts on a pretty good show for an "older" white guy!).

It's great to have an outlet but I think I'm in need of a little less splurging...or a little more self control! The thing is there's always more music coming that I could add to the collection! I've got a list of music that I still want, not need, but want. Where's the balance between a hobby and an addiction? Between an appreciation for music and outright materialism? Yikes.

To give you an idea of what kind of potential trouble I'm talking about, let me show you "The list" in no particular order...
Tim Hughes, Holding Nothing Back
Josh Radin, We Were Here
Maroon 5, It Won't Be Soon Before Long
Last Kiss Soundtrack
Painted Veil Soundtrack
Micheal Buble, Call Me Irresponsible
Hawksley Workman
Spiderman 3 Soundtrack
Gnarls Barkley, St. Elsewhere
John Mayer Trio, Try
Jeremy Fisher, Goodbye Blue Monday
Joss Stone, Introducing Joss Stone
Snow Patrol, Final Straw
Keith Urban, In the Ranch
Memoirs of a Geisha sountrack

then there's all the random stuff like Death Cab For Cutie, Fratellis, Muse, Dustin Kensrue, Tegan and Sarah, Yellow Card, Feist...pretty much anything from Grey's Anatomy 'cause they know how to pick it...

See what I mean?!

It's ridiculous.

It probably needs to stop.

Probably.

I don't really want it to.

Perhaps some of that can be "explained" by losing all the stuff off my old computer but not really since not much of what's on "this list" is replacing any of that so probably not.

Excuses are for losers, call a spade a spade, I'm addicted to music.

It could be worse, right?

The real question is, how long do I actually listen to it once I get it. Perhaps it's time to "recycle" some of the old stuff.

Hmmm...at least I've found a couple good radio stations now. Calgary's new extreme (92.9 fm) is playing right into what I've been craving lately.

Surprise, surprise!

You Belong in Summer

Energetic, creative, and very curious about the world... You're not going to let anything hold you back, especially a cold day. Whether you're chilling out at the beach or partying all night, you live for the warm weather.

What Season Are You?

A Stolen Moment...

...or quote...that will only take a moment to read...okay so it was a shamless grab for a title. Deal with it. The quote is better. I stole it from my friend Tim's blog. It is the way I feel about church. Perhaps it's just me being stubborn. I have watched people all around me give up on the church (especially the institution of it) because of all of the politics, pride, misinterpretation, judgement and just plain sin that they see there...and, in many ways, I see their point. Leaving is one way of handling it. I just can't give up though. I don't feel that God gives up on us. I don't know what I can accomplish as one person but I know it's something. I truly believe that God is raising up a generation who is feeling enough discontent with the way things are in the institution of the church and are searching for a better way, a more authentic, godly way, and will begin change by His power and His Spirit.

So that was a big leadup to a stolen quote. Here it is:

"We're going to stop complaining about the church that we've experienced and try to become the church that we dream of."

Shane Clairborne
The Simple Way

I am excited about what we can accomplish when we make that our focus. Stop complaining and get to work.

Current Read

Children of Hurin, J.R.R. Tolkien

From "Sex God"

When we're not at peace, when we aren't content, when we aren't in a good place, our radar gets turned on. We're looking. Searching. And we're sensory creatures, so it won't be long before something, or somebody, catches our attention.

And it always revolves around the "if," doesn't it?

If I just...

The idea creeps into our head and heart that we are lacking, that we are incomplete, that this craving in front of us is the answer.

The "if" means we have become attached to the idea that we are missing something and that we can b e satisfied by whatever it is we have in our sights. There's a hole, a space, a gap, and we're on the search. And we may not even realize it. When we are in the right place, the right space - content and at peace - we aren't on the search, and our radar gets turned off.

Adam and Eve fixate on this one piece of fruit from this one tree when God has given them endless trees with infinite varieties of fruit to enjoy. Which is our problem. There's so much to enjoy, and yet we fixate on something we don't have.

This is why gratitude is so central to the life God made us for. Until we can center ourselves on what we do have, on what God has given us, on the life we do get to live, we'll contantly be looking for another life. That is why the word remember occurs again and again in the Bible. God commands his people to remember who they are, where they've been, what they've seen, what's been done for them. If we stop remembering, we may forget. And that's when the trouble comes...

...freedom is going without whatever we crave and being fine with it.

Rob Bell
Sex God, pg 73-75

Current Read

The Five People You Meet In Heaven, Mitch Albom

It's a quick read - I just finished it - but beware, it made me cry...

Check this out...Shauna has been around the ABC community from time to time and makes the coolest shoes. You can go to John Close's blog (link on left 'cause I'm too lazy to link it for you today) and find her website to see all of her designs. They're pretty fun...like Shauna!

My sister posted this on her facebook...I wanted to put it up here so anyone who wants can join us in prayer:

Tara Sparshu (no network) wroteat 12:10pm on May 16th, 2007

To anyone who is reading this I am requesting lots of prayers today. A friend of mine is missing!!!! I know that sounds weird but she is classed as a missing person. She started her deaf studies classes at the university on May 7. She is living with a family in the city for the first two semester (until September)....anyways she was at class the first day and a half and since tuesday nobody has seen her..she hasn't been to class....she hasn't been home...she isn't returning phone calls....isn't checking her machine as her inbox is full....she isn't answering email. They are tracing her bank activity trying to get some clues and they found activity in Winnipeg this weekend. We are all very concerned....her dad is a mess...please pray for her dad and forLeanne that she is okay and that she will come home soon. Thanks

Encouragement from a Coworker

This was in an email from a coworker to a couple of us this morning. Wise, isn't it!?

What God wants for us and from us has something central to do with
what we most deeply and truly want for ourselves.

James Fowler


I really believe this is true for the spiritually mature while completely honest with introspection. In our quest to find out what God wants from us, we must first find out what we “most deeply and truly want for ourselves.”

Debunking the Myth

We find a comic like this funny, if you did, because it's just so darn stereotypical.

Lately there seems to be a lot of conversation about singleness, both mine and just in general. I have to confess that, at the risk of sounding bitter, I'm pretty tired of the stereotypes. I'm coming to realize that there's a lot of misunderstanding about what it means and what it looks like to be single, to be older and single more specifically, especially in the church. So I'm going to tell some things that I'm learning. I'm going to talk about "me" but for the most part, I suspect, I can safely speak for many of my fellow "singles."

First of all, let me talk about the 'old maid' thing. Sure, in church circles we tend to see couples getting married young, around 20 or 21 (it's funny how the older I get, the younger that sounds!) but the reality is that the national average is much higher. Here's some recent stats I found. In 2003, in Canada (excluding Ontario), the average age of persons marrying for the first time (to someone of the opposite sex) was 30.6 years for men and 28.5 years for women.
In 2002, in Canada (excluding Ontario), it was 30.4 years for men and 28.3 years for women.
The data for Canada (including Ontario) from 1973 to 2002 indicate that the average age at first marriage of newlyweds, who married someone of the opposite sex, gradually rose among men and women. In 1973, the average age at which men (25.2 years) and women (22.8 years) married for the first time was about five years lower than in 2003. This gradual rise in the average age at first marriage is largely due to couples cohabiting and delaying marriage. We're just talking about averages. I'm not that old. I'm under the average.

Last week the Calgary Herald wrote an article titled "Single and Happy." The basic premise was that, surprisingly enough, not all single people are sad, lonely, desperate, depressed people. It's true!!! I will never for one minute deny that I have times where I'm lonely or I wish that there was someone to share my life with. I can't say that I've never spent an evening with some of my married friends and gone home wishing that I had what they have. I can't say that I'm never frustrated with singleness in general, particularly the lack of other single people around me. This is where I point out that I recognize that I don't have to be ashamed for those moments where I do long for that kind of relationship. I don't. I'm not. Genesis talks about how God saw man - Adam - alone and said it wasn't good. He creates Eve from his side to be a helpmate, a partner or a companion to Adam. And then it was good. I've been blessed to see that lived out. My mom and dad along with many of their friends have been an amazing model of that in the midst of a world that doesn't do it all so well. My grandparents have blessed me with an image that makes me desire to have what they have instead of running away screaming. It is good. All of that said, I've learned, and it's been a process, that I live in today. That I don't have to be happy with being single forever - I don't have to look that far ahead - but I can trust that God knows what I desire and what I need and I can make the choice to be content for today. I've realized too, that sometimes I will deal with loneliness. It's because we're wired for community.

Here's a myth I need to address because I'm a little tired of smiling and nodding while reminding myself of the individuals good intentions every time it comes up. Ever heard this one: "When you're right with God, he'll provide for you." You know what? I believe in God's timing and I'm trusting in it. I believe that God is able to provide. I believe that my relationship with Him is the most important relationship I'll ever have and that it's critical for me to have it right. BUT to imply that I'm single because my relationship with God isn't right isn't right, fair, kind or loving and if it's meant to be encouraging, let me tell you, it isn't. Okay, so I might be bitter about that one. I'll work on my attitude about that.

While we often recognize that it's God bringing two people together, I think we have a hard time balancing that with doing our part. What I mean is, no one's going to find you if you're hiding in your room. I understand that. Most of us do. We can't just be waiting for someone to sweep us off our feet. So I get out. I do the things I love to do and represent the things I value and I do them with a variety of people. On the other hand, you don't just go out and "find someone." It's just not that easy. There are some people who have the fairy tale, love at first sight, met their true love story. Some of them were young when it happened. For others that's not the case, at least not yet.

I was hanging out with my 14 year old cousin not that long ago. At one point, she looked at me and said, "you'd be a great mom. you should have kids." I appreciate that. I would love to have kids and I really do desire, when that happens, to be a good mom to those God should bless me with. That people see that in me now is affirming. What followed next was a little more difficult: "why don't you?" At that moment I stumbled over how to explain it all. "Well, um, to be a mom, I'd need to have someone to be the dad." Even at the most physical level that's true, right? She looks up at me and innocently says, "well, then what are you waiting for?" Oh dear cousin, if only it were that easy. She's not the only one to have that sort of conversation with me. Is it fair to say that I live today conscious of where I am AND of where I hope to be? That I live in an awareness of who and what is going on around me but that I also cannot force the issue? That I recognize that there IS a balance between the work of God and the work of man (yes, pun intended)?

I do not need to be pitied. Please don't feel sorry for me. Just treat me as a friend and I'm okay. Being single isn't a curse. The only time that I feel like I'm somehow complete or insignificant compared to my married peers is when that is put on me, when someone "tells" me that I should be. It's not all that odd either...to be single, I mean. I read this morning that 44% of adults in Canada are single as of the most recent census. I am not alone...in my aloneness...interesting, isn't it? There are many types of intimacy and care. As a single woman, I need good friends around. All I'm saying is love me, don't feel sorry for me. There's a fine line between pity and care...please care.

To go along with that one, can I ask that if you're thinking of match making for me or any other single people you know, consider the individuals involved. Here's another myth: that if someone is older and single (read over 25), then their standards must be too high. While that may be a factor, I'm not willing to swing the pendulum so far as to simply look for someone male, single and breathing. Do you see where I'm going with this? Just because two people are single, doesn't make them a match made in heaven. Maybe. Not necessarily. Consider the individuals. Values. Interests. Character. Things like that. That's all I'm saying. Single people are exactly that, people. If you're married, consider the things you were looking for in a spouse and check your matchmaking requirements with that in mind. If you're single and looking out for a friend, consider what you would like. Most of all, consider what you know of your friend.

There are people I would trust to "help" me find someone. They are the people that know who to look for and how to go about it in a way that's edifying to me...and that "special someone." They see my strengths that will be enhanced by a partner and know my weaknesses that will be balanced. They get it. And I trust them.

I came into contact with a couple that I know. We haven't spoke in almost a year. Before even asking me how I was doing, they announced that while they knew it was awkward, they wanted to have me over for dinner because they have a whole lineup of guys for me to meet. Yes. That is awkward. Now, I don't mean to sound completely ungrateful because I know that in their own way, they were doing what they thought was a good thing. I just would have preferred that they ask me how I am...that I could trust that they knew me well enough to find someone for me...that I felt that they would want to spend time with me because of me and not because I was a project.

That's not the only story like that have.

On the other hand, I have a couple of friends that rarely speak of me being single. We hang out all the time and I don't feel like a third wheel. They occasionally joke about someone they think would be great for me but they don't really "match make." Funny thing is, I know that if they should ever bring someone around for me to meet, it would be well though out and done with care and tact. It makes all the difference.

Like I said, I don't mean to sound ungrateful. Often it's with some rant about how great I am and how sad it is that I'm single or how some guy is missing out because he's not with me or how all the guys around must be stupid to not have snagged me up earlier or......I know they meant to encourage and to build me up, especially because, for the most part, they've got a great marriage and want the same for me, but somehow it only makes me feel like I've got a third eye or am missing a body part or something. I'm not a failure because I'm single. Yes, I know that I'm pretty terrific and that some guy is missing out...but if he's good enough for me than I'm missing out too...but then God knows all of that so really, no one is missing out! Funny how that all works, huh?

Moreover, and this is the most important of all for me, I choose to not be defined by my single status. I think that all of us are defined by much more than whether we're married or single. That is a factor but not the whole picture.

So how do I want to be defined?

By my Kingdom heritage...I'm a child of the King.

By my character.

By how I show Jesus.

By how I love.

By how I listen.

By joy and contentedness in the midst of the mess.

By my desire to learn and grow.

By my love for activity and people and reading and life.

By my smile, even if I don't always like my teeth.

By my ability to just hang out with the little people - I mean the children - in my life.

By how I love my family and friends.

By how I contribute to the kingdom.

One of the most kind things said to me recently was from a good friend of mine. She told me that her and her husband don't see me as "Stacey our single friend" but as "Stacey our friend." That's important to me. That's how I want to be defined.

This is a journey for me and, as long as I'm single, it will be a journey for me. I know that I have single brothers and sisters in different places in the journey and my prayer is that as I learn and grow in confidence in who God has made me, I pray that I can be an example to them. For any single friends reading this, please know that you do not have to be defined by your singleness either. You don't have to be depressed, lonely, desperate or "on a hunt"...at least not as a state of being. If there's seasons of those emotions, it's okay and it's natural. Just don't live there. You're worth more than that. Know you're not alone even when it feels that way. You are not less. You are not insignificant. You are not odd. It's not your fault. You can contribute in very valuable ways. God will use you and he certainly has not forgotten about you.

Current Read

Sex God: Exploring the Endless connections Between Sexuality and Spirituality, Rob Bell

I'm just a Big Geek

It's one of my favorite times of year: time for the Calgary Herald Book drive. It's like an adventure...of literary proportions. Oh dear. Stop now. See, I'm just a big geek. On that note, no one has to comment about that fact. I know already. Oh boy! Anyway....here's an article from the Herald to tell you a bit about it...


Rare gems among deluge of donations

Graeme Morton, Calgary HeraldPublished: Saturday, May 12, 2007

Inese Clark must feel like a pirate searching for hidden literary treasure in an ocean of books.
Clark, a retired teacher/librarian, has been co-ordinating the special books section of the Calgary Book Drive and Sale, supported by the Herald, for the past four years.
She's responsible for locating books with unique monetary or nostalgic value out of the estimated half million volumes volunteers will sort through during the next four weeks. They are offered for sale in a designated area of the event tent at the Crossroads Market, located at the junction of Blackfoot Trail and Ogden Road S.E.

"I've had a keen interest in collectible books for a long time," says Clark. She has combined that passion with her librarian's background and the expertise of Cameron Treleaven, owner of Calgary's Aquila Books, who acts as a consultant on rare volumes for the book drive.

Clark says a first-edition copy of Charles Dickens' epic Bleak House is one of the most unique literary treasures that's surfaced during the donation process.

"We also get quite a few local, Alberta and military unit histories printed in limited editions that are quite attractive to collectors," says Clark.

She says some of the rare books come from families cleaning out grandma's attic, but other people intentionally donate valuable volumes as a way of supporting the beneficiaries of the book sale, the Servants Anonymous Society and Herald literacy programs.

"Not all the books we get are necessarily high-priced, but they might be just what someone has been looking for," says Clark.

"The year (Alberta conservationist) Andy Russell died, we had a great run on his books. Or it may be someone who is especially nostalgic for a favourite book from their childhood like the Hardy Boys, Tom Swift or the Bobbsey Twins."

gmorton@theherald.canwest.com

The fifth annual Calgary Herald Book Drive and Sale raises money to support the Servants Anonymous Society and Calgary Herald literacy programs.

Used books in good condition will be collected at Calgary's 33 fire halls starting today. The sale will take place June 8 to 10 and June 15 to 17 at the Crossroads Market.

The book drive still requires volunteers to help with the sorting of the hundreds of thousands of books. Those interested are asked to call 205-5540.

Current Read

Diggers, Terry Pratchett

So much fun and quick to read. The only "problem" is that it's part of a trilogy and I don't have #3!!!

Remember your dreams and fight for them. You must know what you want from life. There is just one thing that makes your dream become impossible: the fear of failure. Never forget your Personal Legend. Never forget your dreams. Your silent heart will guide you. Be silent now. It is the possibility of a dream that makes life interesting. You can choose between being a victim of destiny or an adventurer who is fighting for something important.

-- Paulo Coelho
Novelist. His works include The Alchemist, The Zahir and The Devil and Miss Prym.

In reality hell is not such an intention of God as it is an invention of man. God is love and people are precious. Authentic truth is not so much taught or learned as it is remembered. Somewhere in your pre-incarnate consciousness you were loved absolutely because you were. Loved absolutely, and in reality, you still are! Remember who you are!

-- Bishop Carlton Pearson

Current Read

Truckers, Terry Pratchett

All Preachers Beware

It's pretty old but, if you haven't seen this before, take a look.

Trunk Monkies

This is for anyone that played softball with me this past Tuesday! Enjoy!

The Winds of Change

"Everybody has to change, or they expire. Everybody has to leave, everybody has to leave their home and come back so they can love it again for all new reasons."

- Donald Miller, Through Painted Deserts

I just wish I knew what that meant for me right now!

*Thanks for posting it, Katie! I know it means something to you too!

If you've got a minute today...

please pray for the staff of the college today. we've got some interesting meetings of some pretty significant importance. Pray for wisdom, discernment, understanding and unity!
Thanks!

Current Read

The funny thing is that I'm only partly kidding about these being my current, or at least most recent, reads.

I had the privilege of spending most of my weekend with some great little people. On Saturday I helped my friend, Reinette, host a spa party for her daughter's birthday. We had a living room full of 9 year olds being spoiled. It was so fun and, truthfully, a little funny to watch as these girls became little ladies, if even just for the afternoon. Facials, manicures and pedicures for all! I looked over at one point and there were 3 little girls with their feet resting in the foot spa, reading their magazine, drinking orange juice from champagne flutes and chatting just like grown ups. I guess some of that is just instinctual for us ladies! It struck me how when we're young, we long to be grown up, idealizing and romanticizing the adult world...then we get there and look back and long for the days of our childhood. What I wouldn't give for someone to tell me that it's time for an afternoon nap!!

Sunday I got to hang out with Fred and Tasha's little darlings, Samantha and Nathan, while they went out to celebrate their anniversary (Happy Anniversary, guys! Hope you had a great time). This is where the Dr. Suess books came in. Sammy and I read all three of them several times during the day! Anyway, that's how I spent my Sunday and I have to admit that I think those two are seriously two of the cutest kids alive. I love hanging out with them! Nathan is such a content little guy with a killer smile. I wish I could be more like that! Samantha amazes me, really. Perhaps this is all little kids, but I was reminded again of the innocence of childhood and to take joy in the little things. We were outside enjoying the sun and she spent most of our time fascinated with bugs, not quite ready to touch them mind you, and splashing in the water in her little water table. That's joy...for both of us, although I think mine was because of her.

There certainly is a reason that we are told to approach God as a little child. There really is something to it.

Hang out with a little kid or two for even a couple hours. You'll see what I mean. They are pretty good teachers, too. And, if nothing else, you get to read some Dr. Seuss without anyone questioning your reading level...or maturity. It's great!!

So I get this email from one of my pastor friends...

On The Silver Screen

Has anyone seen any good movies lately? I'm completely out of touch but I think it's about time I endulge in some of Hollywood's finest.

Any recommendations? Theatre or DVD would be good.

...the Christian stands not under the dictatorship of a legalistic 'You ought,' but in the magnetic field of Christian freedom, under the empowering of the 'You may.'

Helmut Thielicke
in Dallas Willard's The Great Omission, pg. 12

While we might not always live this way, THIS is what the Christian life is about!

Current Read

The Great Omission, Dallas Willard

Congratulations to our Graduates!

Congratulations to all those honored during ABC's 75th Commencement Weekend (April 27-29).

Venture Teams International

Last week I had the privilege of spending my days out at the VTI training center for their focus week. VTI is a missions organization that sends teams of young adults to do evangelism work all around the world. Their focus week is held in their second week home from their overseas time (for some as long as 7 months). It is a privilege to spend this week with them. Their experiences are fresh in their minds and they are incredibly aware of the work that God is capable of doing - they have seen it first hand...and in that, there is life.

In addition to the inspiration and joy the students themselves are - and that would be enough, really, since they're absolutely inspiring - the week itself is a blessing.

First, the training center is far enough off "the beaten path" that it seems as if it is a retreat. There is very little internet, scarce cell phone reception, little radio and no tv. What there is is plenty of silence, conversation, fresh air and rest...and in that, there is life.

I was able to speak with other college reps and hear how God is moving in their institutions...in His institutions. It was refreshing, exciting and encouraging to hear of the changes that are being worked in institutions around the country...and in that, there is life.

Through the stories of the teams, my fellow reps, and the words of the speaker for the week, I truly believe that God spoke to me about the power of prayer. Sometimes the truth hurts. I was convicted of the fact that I don't spend enough time in prayer. I don't truly turn things over to God the way I desire too...at least not often enough. Even as the truth sunk in, however, I had the time and the place to begin putting it all into practice. I spent time in prayer, both on my own and with my brothers and sisters that were there. I journalled. I read Scripture. I shared stories of what God is doing in my world with honesty and authenticity...and in that, there is life.

There is life. Coming home, that's how I feel. A little more alive. A little more refreshed. I know that there will be lots to do in the next little while and I know there is much that could distract me but I know that God's promise for me is life, should I chose to live it.

Another fun little exercise in getting to know me

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Snuffing Out the Flames

Okay, so anyone that knows me even a little bit knows that I am NOT a fan of the Calgary Flames. In fact, today, someone asked me if I was one of those who was a fan of anyone who played Calgary. No, that's not true. This Calgary-Detroit playoff series was tough on me. I don't really care for either team. That said, I was pulling for Detroit, if only slightly and only because someone had to go on. The Calgary fans I'm surrounded by would be incorrigible so, therefore, a girl does the smart thing and pulls for the Wings.

Now that that's out of the way, I do have something to say about the Flames. Actually, one Flame. Kipper. The guy is outstanding. I've watched a lot of hockey. Enough to know that that is one incredible goalie. Tonight's game was the second game of this series that he faced over 50 shots (while his team shot under 20!). Amazing.

So, truth be told, I'm sad for Kipper. Sad that he can't go on. Sad that he won't be winning a Stanley Cup. And, truthfully, sad he plays for the Flames.

That's right. I said it.

And It Was Good!

This is an email I received from John Wilson, ABC professor and friend, yesterday:

Some very good news. I saw my oncologist yesterday and my system is clean and clear of myeloma! The new drug and protocol worked amazingly well and quickly (maybe immediately). she had a big grin on her face when she told me. What a great answer to prayer.

I'm not out of the woods yet: my body has to heal from this train wreck, but the main thing is the myeloma is in remission.

Thank you for your prayers & support.

John

God is good!

Question of the Day

Okay, for all of you who travelled with me on the CCUFairs and put up with my questions of the day, this post is for you.

Remember when I asked the question "if you were an animal, what would you be?"

Remember how much I argued the fact that so many of you suggested/agreed that I would be a flamingo (it better not have anything to do with their small brains!!)?

Well, today I had a couple of students in my office and we were looking at one of those Hallmark books for if you're blue (aka sad). It had a different animal picture on every page with a phrase underneath. It started with all the reasons you could be blue. Lonely. Exhausted. Left out. Blah, blah, blah.

We were picking which animals we were. I picked out the hippo. Not because it was a hippo but because of the word underneath. I don't even remember what it was. It doesn't matter. They didn't agree with me and went in to all of the reasons i couldn't be a hippo. I tried to tell them they missed the point but they weren't following. Anyway, then we flipped the page and there was a lion and it said "exhausted and can't feel like you can go on?" I was like, "oh hey, that's me!" One of the girls rolled her eyes, looked at me and said, very matter o' factly: "no, I think you're more of a flamingo."

There you go.

I was wrong.

Yup, I can say it.

Sumo Squirrels!!??

Sometimes I wish I didn't have such a vivid imagination. Someone will say something absurd and I'll picture it and laugh to myself (or outloud!) forever! Then, I'll be sitting by myself later and think about it, see it, and laugh all over again! So imagine the fun when I saw this cartoon. Sumo squirrels! Seriously, so fun! Picture it for a minute. Sumo squirrels! Man, life is entertaining when you can see what goes on in my head!

Loving the Story

There's a new book out today by Tolkien, Children of Hurin, the first to be released in 30 years. Yes, I know that he has passed away. It's been released in pieces before as a part of the Simarilion and the Incomplete Tales but now has been completed and edited. I can't wait to read it!

Makin' Memories of Us

This came from Katie's blog: Leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember! Don't send a message, leave a comment on here. Next, re-post this in your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty cool (and funny) to see the responses.

P.S. Can anyone name the song I've titled this post after?

Have you tried this?

So totally fun...you should really try it!

Thoughts on Church

A while back I read "Breaking the Missional Code" by Ed Stetzer & David Putman. While I didn't agree with everything, there were some great thoughts. I've been meaning to post a few of them but keep forgetting to have the book at the same place as the computer. I finally got my act together so here goes:

You cannot grow a biblically faithful church without loving peple and preaching the gospel. But loving people means understanding and communicating with them. Preaching the gospel means to proclaim a gospel about the Word becoming fles - and proclaiming that the body of Christ needs to become incarnate in every cultural expression.

pg 15

If a church does not regularly examine its culture, it ends up as a culture unto itself. Soon the church is filled with people who pray in King James Englishm call the pastor "brother" to show respect and forbid women from wearing pants to church They arestill relating to cultural issues that were relevant one hundred years before. However, that culture and those issues have long since disappeared - everywhere, that is except within the church. Instead the church needs to regularily ask, "Are we faithfull proclaiming the faith in the place in which we find ourselves today?" A church will be completely faithful only when it is faithful to its God, its Scripture, and its mission to the world.

pg 28

Someone once asked Wayne Gretsky why he was a good hockey player. He answered that most players skate to where the puck is, but he skated to where the puck was going to be. The Bible refers to people like that: "Men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do" (1 Chron. 12:32).

pg 60

The good news is Jesus transcends all cultures. Jesus is not modern. Jesus is not postmodern. And his body, the church, is neither modern nor postmodern, though it lives within both cultural paradigms. Ultimately, Christ's commuity is a way of life that incarnates into and challenges any and every culture, in every time, in every place. Mission is an intrinsically translational task. Throughout history, God has shown himself relating to people within their cultural frame of reference. The life and work of Jesus Christ set a pattern for the church's mission. In the incarnation, God become more than words. The Word himself entered culture ina specific time and space.

Jonathan Campbell

pg 73

God is at work in the lives of thsoe outside the church and invites us to join him. It is encouraging to understand that God is more interested in the eternal well-being of people than we are. He has created people with an incredible appetite for him, and he is actively at work in their lives drawing them to himself. His invitation for us is to join him in his activity in people's lives. The key to this is becoming sensitive to what God is doing in the lives of those all around us

pg 125

There is a rising feeling among emerging church leaders and followers of Jesus, tht in many modern contemporary churches, something has subtly gone astray in what we call "church" and what we call "Christianity." Through time, church has become a place that you go to have your needs met, instead of being a called local community of God on a mission together. Through time, much of contemporary Christianity subtly has become more about inviting others into the subcultures of Christian music, language and church programs than about passionately inviting others unto a radically alternative community and way of life as disciples of Jesus and Kingdom living.

Dan Kimball & Josh Fox

pg 202

So there you have it. There's more but those are some of the highlights. What is the Church? What is our mission? How do we interact with the world around us? How do we equip and engage leaders? They're huge questions that, while we might not have answers to, we need to be thinking about.

A blast from the past...

...or maybe it's more of a bounce! My cousin, Penny, was able to get me a copy of the first season of Disney's Gummi bears on DVD so that's what I'm watching right now. I remember many Saturday afternoons watching the little guys, singing the theme song and quoting some of the more memorable lines. Oh yes, I'm a child of the 80's.

Now to find some of the others...Ewoks, Tailspin, Ghostbusters, Transformers, Care Bears, Rescue Rangers, Smurfs...oh man! I love it!

Limiting Beliefs

I've been thinking a lot about moving forward, about growth and about perseverance. What does that mean for me? What does that mean for those that I journey with? What does that look like? There are times that I see visions of what the future could be so clearly and yet I feel so rooted, so trapped, in the imperfect presence. What is it that keeps us from moving forward? What are the barriers? Steve wrote a post a while back about limiting beliefs which I've pondered for quite a while. I know much of those plague me as I think of becoming more of the woman that God intends me to be.

I encourage you to check out his post and the article he links it to...and pray. Pray for those around you who need to overcome the lies. Pray for the Church: that we can move beyond the perceptions of the world and the tainted marks of our history and become (or continue to be) the unstoppable kingdom instrument that God intends us to be. And pray with thanksgiving. God has a plan for each one of us, plans for us to prosper and be a part of His good purposes. He chooses to use us and include us in His work of redeeming humanity and reclaiming them to himself. Sometimes I am overwhelmed by that but I'm thankful.

"I can do all things through him who gives me strength." That's the verse that scrolls across my screen when my screensaver is activated.

It's easy to believe the limiting beliefs but today I choose to believe in truth, to believe in Him.

I can...through Him.

Current Read

Soul Cravings, Erwin Raphael McManus

How Great Is This!!??

My friend Dayna found this on her latest cross boarder vacation. How sweet is this!? Just look at it. By name alone, I was destined to be surrounded by and addicted to good books. Now I just have to pray that my poor roommate and my bank account agree!

*If you can't tell, it's a bookstore named "Stacey's" and it's spelled my way! I'm getting a lot of mileage out of this one today, ok!?

Missing Much Music

Question: What are your favorite songs of the past 10 years?

Here's why I ask: I recently had my hard drive from my computer, well, reworked, redone, and basically salvaged from my old computer. Fortunately, we were able to save both the hard drive and most of the files. One file I was sad to lose, though, was my music file which I'd been building since 1998. If you know me and my music, you know that this is a big deal. Anyway, I don't remember everything that was in there so I thought I'd put a shout out for a little bit of teamwork. Even if your favorite song isn't my favorite song, odds are pretty good that it will start my brainstorming functions and still be helpful!

Perhaps I should just ask, what are your all time favorite songs?

Make the lists as long as you want! I'm ready to hear what you have to say!

And the Results Are In

The regular season is over and for some it means that it's time for the big time. For others, it means that it's time to warm up the golf clubs. Unfortunatly, my Oilers fall into the latter category...although they can't seem to catch a break if they tried. Get this, not only have they had a season to forget, by winning their last game, they brought themselves out of the bottom five in the league and will now miss out on the lottery for the first draft pick. I've heard the draft isn't all that much to look forward to but still...

Anyway, here's the players in the first round:

Buffalo vs the Islanders (happy now, Smytty?)

New Jersey vs Tampa Bay

Atlanta vs the Rangers

Ottawa vs Pittsburg

Detroit vs Calgary

Anaheim vs Minnesota

Vancouver vs Dallas

Nashville vs San Jose

Let the games begin!

Past Reads

Normally I would be posting current reads but I've been neglectful in my blogging duties so here you have it!

Artemis Fowl, the Arctic Incident, Eoin Colfer

Inkheart, Cornelia Funke

To Friends of John Wilson

This came through today - more specifics about the plan to spoil John Wilson as we celebrate his immesurable service to the college:

To make a long story short, we would like to raise $5000 in order to send John and Becky on a trip, including some spending money, and we would like to do it by April 15th if at all possible. For tax purposes this special fund-raising project needs to stay outside official A.B.C. accounting (as friends of John we can give him a gift, but if the College gives John a gift it is viewed by Revenue Canada as a taxable benefit and he would get stuck with a tax bill at the end of the year) which means that a charitable receipt cannot be issued for your donation. Donations should be sent to either myself at the college address or to Sandra Osborne, also at the college address. Please make sure you designate the money for John’s gift so that Sandra and I know it’s not for us to spend on whatever we want.

Thank you for considering being a part of this, any contribution you can make will be helpful and appreciated.

Gary Lepine

Just want to make sure that everyone has ample warning to participate!

Two Guys from Edmonton

A fellow hockey fan sent this to me. I think they were trying to rile me up a little. Little did they know that right now I can completely see the humor of this. Has anyone checked the NHL stats lately!? Geesh.

Two guys from Edmonton


Two guys from Edmonton die and wake up in hell. The next day the devil stops in to check on them and sees them dressed in parkas,mittens, and toques warming themselves around the fire.The devil asks them, "What are you doing? Isn't it hot enough for you?"

The two guys reply, "Well, you know, we're from Canada, the land of snow and ice and cold. We're just happy for a chance to warm up a little bit, eh."The devil decides that these two aren't miserable enough and turns up the heat. The next morning he stops in again and there they are, still dressed in parkas, toques and mittens. The devil asks them again, "It's awfully hot down here, can't you guys feel it?"

Again the two guys reply, "Well, like we told ya yesterday, we're from Canada, the land of snow and ice and cold. We're just happy for a chance to warm up a little bit, eh."

This gets the devil a little steamed up and he decides to fix these two guys. He cranks the heat up as high as it will go. The people are wailing and screaming everywhere.


He stops by the room with the two guys from Canada and finds them in light jackets and bucket hats, grilling sausage and drinking beer.

The devil is astonished, "Everyone down here is in abject misery, and you two seem to be enjoying yourselves."

The two Canadians reply, "Well, ya know, we don't get too much warm weather up there in Edmonton so we've just got to have a cook-out when the weather's THIS nice."The devil is absolutely furious, he can hardly see straight. Finally he comes up with the answer. The two guys love the heat because they have been cold all their lives. The devil decides to turn all the heat off in hell.The next morning, the temperature is below zero, icicles are hanging everywhere; people are shivering so bad that they are unable to do anything but wail, moan, and gnash their teeth. The devil smiles and heads for theroom with the two Canadians. He gets there and finds them back in their parkas, toques, and mittens. NOW they are jumping up and down, cheering,yelling, and screaming like mad men!!!The devil is dumbfounded, "I don't understand, when I turn up the heat you're happy. Now it's freezing cold and you're still happy. What is wrong with you two???"


The Edmontonians look at the devil in surprise, "Well, don't you know?

If hell freezes over, it must mean the Oilers have won the Stanley Cup!!!"

Enough about that. I still love my boys but sure am sad about how this season's finishing! My theory is that when kevin Lowe said he had a "strategy" upon trading Ryan Smyth for, as my brother put it, pucks and hockey tape, what he really meant was that they were planning to throw the end of the season in hopes of some good draft picks. No one can have a slump this big by accident, can they? My sister went to a game a couple weeks back and said that there's lots of new talent. Hopefully that means good things for down the road. All I know is that there's only a couple of games to go before playoffs and I have nothing to boast about here in Calgary. Soon, all I'll be doing is cringing as news of the Red Mile shenanigans hits the news and my coworkers and students are feverishly following their teams.

Perhaps the sun will shine and I'll forget that there's actually hockey being played...hmmm...

A long obedience in the same direction

This has been "brewing" under the surface for some time but is now 'safe' for me to post:

Step by step, day by day, God calls us to obey. Sometimes that means faithfully leading forward; other times it means wisely stepping back. This winter John Wilson acknowledged that his health requires him to step back from full time ministry and take time to get healthy as well as create a new look for his obedience. Such a transition calls for a party—a celebration of 23 years of ministry while anticipating future possibilities. John’s love of games, his humor, and countless perfectly-timed comments provide great material for an evening of laughter and memories.

Join us on Saturday April 28 @ 7:00 p.m. in the College gym.

Do you have memories to share? Contact Sandra at slosborne@abc-ca.org or Gary at glepine@abc-ca.org.

With that in mind, I would like to add a couple of significant prayer requests.
1. Please pray for John's health, particularily his eyesight as that has been a real struggle for him and for continued management of the pain he has been feeling.
2. Pray for John's family and those close to him as they walk with him through this transition.
3. Pray for us at the college. His daily presence and influence will be missed and, in many ways, we are transitioning too.
4. Thank God for the strength and endurance He is already providing. John is a real trooper. I am continually blessed and amazed at the way he approaches each day. He is a man of grace, prayer and deep insight and I am thankful that God is developing in him those characteristics daily and blessing us through him.

World's Shortest Fairy Tale

My Aunt sent me this fairy tale. It's a new one. Not like the old days of the Grimm brothers. enjoy!

Once upon a time, a guy asked a girl, "Will you marry me?"
The girl said "No" and she lived happily ever after and went shopping,drank martinis with friends, always had a clean house, never had tocook, had a closet full of shoes and handbags, stayed skinny and was neverfarted on.

The End

On the Silver Screen

I found a fun site for movie reviews, trailers, photos, etc.

Go to rottentomatoes.com

In light of today's weather...

I'm sorry if you find this to be slightly inappropriate but I'm ready for spring and so this is how I feel about winter already!!!!

Who Do I Look Like?

Jessica Alba...not bad, huh!? Although I'm a little curious about the Asian comparisons...

It keeps coming back...

Does that ever happen to you? You read a passage of scripture and it just keeps popping up everywhere you turn? Well, almost everywhere. I figure that's when I probably should start paying attention. Here's the latest one:

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;
Before you were born I sanctified you;
I ordained you a prophet to the nations.”
Then said I: 'Ah, Lord God!
Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.'
But the Lord said to me: 'Do not say, I am a youth,
For you shall go to all to whom I send you,
And whatever I command you, you shall speak.
Do not be afraid of their faces,
For I am with you to deliver you,' says the Lord."

Jeremiah 1:5- 8

A Prayer

This prayer was emailed to me this week:

Lord, help me live my life intentionally. Give me laser-like focus so that I am not easily distracted by things that are not true priorities for me. Give me the endurance to embrace the process of becoming all you created me to be. I thank you for life and longevity, for your wisdom and the possibility of greater things to come. Amen.

Amen!

Facebook

Either working with young adults (aka college students) is going to keep me young and up to date or it's going to make me crazy. I whined a while back about myspace and the cult that it was at the time. Now it's facebook. They've sucked me in. You can find my profile there. Everybody's doing it...

Facebook

Either working with young adults (aka college students) is going to keep me young and up to date or it's going to make me crazy. I whined a while back about myspace and the cult that it was at the time. Now it's facebook. They've sucked me in. You can find my profile there. Everybody's doing it...

Bridging the Gap

C.S. Lewis...draws a distinction between communicating with a society that hears the Gospel for the first time and one that has embraced and then largely rejected it. 'A person must court a virgin differently than a divorcee,' said Lewis. 'One welcomes the charming words; the other needs a demonstration of love to overcome inbuilt skepticism.'

~Philip Yancey

It breaks my heart to look at those around me and think of how far from God some of them are. Somehow, though, I have more hope for those who would be meeting him for the first time then for seeing the return of those who have loved him and left him, so to speak. I'm not sure what to say to that or how to overcome the skepticism or cynicism they approach faith with. For some it's the church they're rejecting but I wonder, in rejecting God's people, if they're not rejecting Him as well. I don't think that's the intention but potentially the result. Oh, I know the church isn't perfect. People aren't perfect. People can be mislead or misguided no matter how good their intentions. That said, the Gospel is good news and, as Rob Bell says, unless the Gospel is good news for everyone than it is not good news for anyone.

It is good news.

He is alive.

He is love.

He is.

Whether for the first time or all over again, I pray that God will give me the words an opportunities to help communicate the good news well.

More Erwin

"Salvation is not re-entry into Paradis Lost; it is enlistment in the mission of God."
~Erwin McManus~

Releasing Today...

Perhaps my excitement about this shows my age but seriously, Turtle power!!!

Current Read

Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban, J.K. Rowling

Too Old, Too Young or Just Right

As I wrote the title for this post, I was thinking of Goldilocks and the three bears. I don't know why that's in my mind right now but it is...weird. This post wasn't supposed to be about bears at all. Bring it together, Stace. Stay on topic. Phew.

Okay, here goes. I'm back in the office again. It's been pretty tough to focus on work stuff but the conversations with students make it all worth while. I'm sure I've said it before but I love my students! They're amazing.

One recent conversation brought up a question that I don't have an answer for so I thought I would throw it out to any who might actually read my ramblings. Truthfully, as a single girl, it's probably good information for me too so here goes:

In dating/marriage relationships, what is an acceptable age difference between the partners? What is too much older? Too much younger?

I have no idea how to advise anyone in this area. What is "just right?"

A Conversation

I love msn. It keeps me connected with good friends and good conversation from the comfort of my cozy couch with my soft blanket, warm coffee and, honestly, my jammies. Now, normally, I wouldn't share said conversations but this one just happened recently and captures a lot of what I've been thinking about and praying about lately. My conversation partner shall be referred to as "friend" since I haven't asked this friend if I can actually post their side of the conversation but it just wouldn't be the same without it.

Perhaps this could get a gridblog or something going. I know there's a lot of questions in here but would love to have others join in the conversations...that's why I'm posting it...just in case explaination was required...anyway here goes:

stacey says:i think that's the thing...we journey together and learn from each other
stacey says:the point isn't how long you've been on the journey but where you are on the journey
friend says:Amen
stacey says:we look at people in ahead of us to learn from them
stacey says:we look to people behind to bring them along
stacey says:"knowing" isn't enough...that alone doesn't bring you any further in the journey

friend says:I am alright....I am just working through it....
stacey says:God gave us our stories and has left his fingerprints all over us b/c of them
friend says:Working through what it is He wants from me....
friend says:that is the truth
stacey says:so true
friend says:My passion is for the world....and how is Christ being reflected in my life...and in turn...
friend says:How can I bring His message to the darkness...to the hurting world....
stacey says:exactly
stacey says:you have a heart for the world in a different way than i do
friend says:It is only through these challenges that we grow....if we are willing to open ourselves and let God do His work
stacey says:b/c of my life in the church, i'm hurt by the damage we've done to the kingdom and passionate to help foster a new attitude in the church that is kingdom focused, not self focused, and yet i love the church enough to know that i can't give up on it
stacey says:my heart is for discipleship and really figuring out what this christian life is all about
friend says:that is amazing....living the life that plants teh seed of the kingdom...
stacey says:so true!
stacey says:it's funny how in many ways, both of us come to the same question
stacey says:just from different ways
friend says:we need those people who will twist the light bulbs and make them brighter...so then we can go out into the darkness
stacey says:i like the way you put that!
friend says:Totally....
friend says:Kingdom living and what does it mean to do church.....
stacey says:exactly
friend says:..am I willing to remain in my safe place or go out and take a risk for God
stacey says:what does it mean to be a christian today?
stacey says:what does that look like?
friend says:That is the key question....
stacey says:exactly
stacey says:steve mcmillan talks about how our christian faith isn't about going up to heaven but bringing heaven here
stacey says:i love that
stacey says:real kingdom living
friend says:If we are created in the image of God....do I develp authentic relationships because we are all cherished....
friend says:Do i roll my eyes in an air of superiority....how do my actions reflect what is at the core of me....
stacey says:b/c heaven is true and a reality but what difference does that make for today?stacey says:how does the gospel change things now?
friend says:Exactly...i am reading Leslie Newbigin....Gospel in a pluralistic world...or whatever
stacey says:oh ya
friend says:It is great that you believe Jesus is the Son of God....But so what....
friend says:What does that look like as we do life....as we walk out our faith....
stacey says:that's the question
friend says:It was convicting and gripping and transforming....as God will do if you are willing....
friend says:Yeah...I think that it goes so far beyond...this is what I believe.....
friend says:I am more interested in what does that look like
stacey says:exactly
friend says:It is fun....which is why I have so many deep conversations with [another friend left anonymous]....we are the epistle of Peter crowd....
friend says:He feels those books were written for people like us....who identify with the lost world....who know the darkness and have a passion to bring life and hope and joy and passion....
stacey says:there's actually a pretty strong movement going on in christian circles that are calling people thinking this way "revolutionaries"
stacey says:that's such a great way to put it!
friend says:I love it....Wycliffe's tag line is abandoned devotion to serving Jesus
stacey says:oohhh i like it
friend says:Abandoned devotion...revolutionary....looks like a theme running through here
stacey says:so true!
friend says:I love it....what are you willing to give up for the sake of....
stacey says:for the sake of the kingdom
friend says:amen....

Upcoming Release: Tortilla Heaven

From Relevant Magazine...

Here's the trailer for the new movie Tortilla Heaven, which is getting a lot of buzz for its take on some biblical and cultural themes. The movie is about the madness that breaks out in a small town after the face of Jesus appears on a tortilla. Though the plot sounds irreverent, there looks to be plenty of over-the-top, but still relatable.

Now I'm not saying that I recommend it since I haven't seen it yet but I am curious. I'm especially intrigued to see how Hollywood handles this and aware, again, of the spiritual curiosity of the world we live in.

How do we, as the church, respond well?

Quote

“The church is not here to meet our needs. We are the church here to meet the needs of the world.”- Erwin McManus

Thanks, Erwin. That's what I've been realizing too.

Current Read

Breaking the Missional Code: Your Church Can Become A Missionary in Your Community, Ed Stetzer & David Putman

Current Read

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon

Affirmations of a Revolutionary

I've been reading Revolution by George Barna. It's a study of what's happening in Kingdom-culture in North America as a growing group of Christians, who Barna calls Revolutionaries, move beyond traditional North American Christianity, in many cases, beyond the traditional church, as they pursue God, faith and obedience.

I love this summary of the revolutionary affirmations as, in many ways, this resonates with who I am, or at least who I want to be, and the current struggle I find myself in.

I am a Revolutionary in the service of God Almighty. My life is not my own; I exist as a free person but have voluntarily become a slave to God. My role on earth is to live as a Revolutionary, comitted to love, holiness, and advancing God's Kingdom. My life is not about me and my natural desires; it is all about knowing, loving, and serving God with all my heart, mind, strength, and soul. Therefore, I acknowledge the following:

>I am a sinner; broken by my disobedience but restored by Jesus Christ in order to participate in good works that please God. I am not perfect; but Jesus Christ makes me righteous in God's eyes, and the Holy Spirit leads me toward greater holiness.
>God created me for His puposes. My desire as a Revolutionary is to fulfill those ends, and those ends alone. When I get out of bed each day, I do so for one purpose: to love, obey, and serve God and His people.
>Every breath I take is a declaration of war against Satan and a commitment to opposing him.
>God does not need me to fight His fight, but He invites me to allow Him to fight through me. It is my privilege to serve Him in that manner. I anticipate and will gladly endure various hardships as I serve God; for this is the price of participation in winning the spiritual war.
>I do not need to save the world; Jesus Christ has already done that. I cannot transform the world, but I can allow God to use me to transform some part of it.
>My commitment to the Revolution of faith is sealed by my complete surrener to God's ways and His will. I will gratefully do what He asks of me simply because He loves me enough to ask. I gain my security, success, and significance through my surrender to Him.
>I am not called to attend or join a church. I am called to be the Church.
>Worship is not an event I attend or a process I observe; it is the lifestyle I lead.
>I do not give away 10 percent of my resources. I surrender 100 percent.
>God has given me natural abilities and supernatural abilities, all intended to advance His Kingdom. I will deploy those abilities for that purpose.
>There is strength in relationships; I am bound at a heart and soul level to other Revolutionaries, adn I will bless believers whenever I have the chance.
>To achieve vicotry in the spiritual war in which we are immersed, there is nothing I must accomplish; I must simply follow Christ with everything I have.
>There is no greater calling than to know and serve God.
>The world is desperately seeking meaning and purpose. I will respond to that need with the Good News and meaningful servidce.
>Absolute moral and spiritual truth exists, is knowable, and is intended for my life; it is accessible through the Bible.
>I want nothing more than to hear God say to me, "Well done, My good and faithful servant."

Thank You, Lord God, for loving me, for saving me, for refining me, for blessing me, and for including me in the work of Your Kingdom. My life is Yours to use as You please. I love You.

George Barna, Revolution, pg 128-130.

Fun Finds at the Farmers' market

Every time I go to the Farmer's Market, I come home having found some new treasure or tasty treat - not that I buy them, necessarily, but I feel like I have uncovered some new mystery!

Today's treat is a new fruit - Kiwi Berries. They're about the size of a steroid enhanced grapes and grow on vines like grapes. Inside they look and have the texture of a kiwi. The thing is, and maybe it's just because they're a novelty today, is that they taste like both but better! They're so good! You just pop the whole thing in your mouth and enjoy. Don't worry, they're not fuzzy like a kiwi.

Apparently they only have a two week season so you have to move fast if you want to taste them.

And if you're wondering, yes, this is what I do with time off...and I love it!

Current Read

Revolution, George Barna

Through the speakers

..and on my ipod!

Catch and Release (Motion Picture Soundtrack)

It's sooooo good! I loved it watching the movie and I love it listening to it now!

Tracks include:

1. Razor -Foo Fighters
2. My Drug Buddy- The Lemonheads
3. A Nest For Two- Blinker The Star
4. Mornings Eleven - The Magic Numbers
5. Pills - Gary Jules
6. Electrified And Ripe -Steve Durand
7. The Winding Staircase -New Radiant Storm King
8. Sky Signal -Audible
9. Leaving The Ground- Peter Maclaggan
10. What If You -Joshua Radin
11. These 3 Sins- Gomez
12. Resistance- Alaska!
13. Let The Bad Times Roll- Paul Westerberg
14. Turning Blue - The Swallows
15. What I Done- Andrew Rodriguez
16. Soul Meets Body -Death Cab For Cutie
17. There Goes The Fear- The Doves

John Mayer

It was announced this past Monday that John Mayer is going to come to Calgary on this tour. The Edmonton stop was announced weeks ago and I was willing to make the trip for it but this is even better. Calgary. Saddledome. Sunday, April 29. 7pm.

Anyone want to go?

And I'm serious about this...none of this, "sure I live in Manitoba but would love to go"...I appreciate the thought but I'm actually looking for people that WILL go with me :)

Emerging from Emerge

I've decided that there are 5 days that are the highlights of my year at work; 5 days in which I'm truly in my element. The first two are registration days in September and January. They're days that are full, a mixture of event planning/coordination and advising as students arrive and allow me a chance to see the fruits of my work. They're days where I truly feel like I have a purpose at the college.

The other 3 days form the weekend of Emerge, our open house weekend at ABC. I don't even know what it is but I feel like I'm in my element. Truthfully, the first year that I did it I was stressed to the max but now that I've figured things out a bit, I love the weekend. Even the week leading up to it, as full as it is, is great! Days go by fast - there's definitely no looking for things to do! I'm able to spend time with the students as we work together to host the weekend. Have I mentioned recently that I love my students?! Man, they're amazing!!! I get to meet and greet new friends and old as they come from all across Western Canada to join us. There's the planning and hosting of the event that I love. I guess I'm all about being in the middle of the action! Have I mentioned that I get to spend concentrated time with the students? Seriously, I love that part. I come out of the weekend completely exhausted and ready for a week of naps but somehow refreshed at the same time. There's something to be said for working out of a place of your strengths.

I was chatting with one of my students Sunday afternoon and he affirmed what I was feeling saying that he could tell that I was completely in my element for the weekend. He 'politely suggested' that I should find a job where I can be in that sort of position more than once a year. He went on to say that it's too bad that my role at the college is not more mentoring focused as he sees that as my place of strength and ability. He's right too - that's the part of my job, more than anything, that I love.

Now, back to the weekend. We had over 100 visitors, both youth leaders and students. We fed well over 150 people. Friday Night Live, our very own Saturday Night Live-esque event, was fabulous. Hunter continued to scare the bejeebers out of me all weekend. Keith Shields and Storm Moore presented fabulous messages and the music team did a fabulous job in leading us to worship through song. The amazing race was a hit although a lot of wet kids and a lingering order of smelly feet filled the building immediately following. Seriously, I don't think I've ever smelt anything so bad! The flour power game was a blast - who knew that you could have so much fun with a bag of flour and some panty hose!? Speech contest participants did a fabulous job. Honestly, it was one of those years where I wish we could have given more than one scholarship. No fire trucks visited which, surprisingly enough, was a step up from last year. Even clean up was fun and went well. Who could ask for anything more?

All in all it was a great weekend and I'm thankful!

To see pictures, they're posted at www.spareparts.shutterfly.com. Hopefully I'll be able to add some of the ones some of my students took soon.

Current Read

Artemis Fowl, Eoin Colfer

I guess I'm just feeling like reading kids' books but I don't feel bad 'cause this series is pretty good. 9-12 year old readers. Bah!

It's kind of funny. When I was 12 I was reading at a university reading level - at least that's what "they" said.