Remember the Decade

Looking back at history can be fun and amusing. There are things we remember that were big hits and were big flops. There were things that made us look good at the time, but after reflection of family photos, we realized we were dead wrong (this would include the obsession with a fanny pack). So, with this in mind, here are few of the top things that were out in the past decade:

* Airports and the days when you didn't have to get undressed to fly the friendly sky's
* Apps - There is now an "App" for anything
* Blogs - there are more than 100 million blogs in cyberspace
* Book Clubs - another Oprah idea redeveloped
* Cable TV and the 24 hour news programs
* Cell Phones - from a bag and antenna to an iPhone
* Chefs and the Food Network
* Crocs - the plastic shoes that debuted in 2002
* Facebook - social networking
* Going Green - from light bulbs to cars and grocery bags
* Google
* GPS - no one can drive without a British lady barking orders
* HGTV/DIY
* Instant Gratification - get what you want when you want decade
* iPods
* Life Coaches - there is a coach for everything
* Organic Products
* Reality TV - please bring back a good sitcom
* Starbucks on every corner
* Texting - r u still rding this? Hope u r
* TV Flat Screens - where have the big box TVs gone?
* Twitter
* Uggs - those bulky fuzzy boots that people even where in LA
* Wii - video gaming at its best (who remembers Atari 2600)
* You Tube - it's all out there in video format

What will come in the next decade?

18

We now have 3 adults and one minor living in our home. Today, Tyler turned 18 years old. Happy Birthday to Tyler!

Reflecting back on these years comes with a lot of memories. Teaching him to ride his first bike, coaching him in baseball and basketball, moving him overseas for several years, enrolling him in multiple different schools, teaching him to drive my car, watching him go on his first date / homecomings, and being accepted into a college of his choice. And watching him grow from a little boy to a pretty good size man.

But most of all, I am thankful for who he is. The decisions he makes and the sensitivity he has for others and the respect he has for himself - all stemming from a relationship with a living God.

Thankful for the Opportunity

I've just moved into 1 Corinthians for my daily reading. While I was waiting for some car upkeep this morning, I decided to get started reading. And was hit with the thought of being "thankful for the opportunity."

You see, most of us strive to be wise, be smart, educate ourselves, and do well. While I am one who fits that category and does not negate the idea of bettering ourselves, I am still humble with the opportunity (ies) I have been given.

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 packs a big punch. I can not give you all the nuggets that hit me today, but will offer a few.

The first thing is a reminder of God's sense of humor! Whether you believe it or not, God is funny. I simply laughed at myself while reading that even God's weakness is stronger than what man can offer and that the foolishness of God is still smarter and wiser than man. If you need an example, visit Dubai now. It's a man made pleasure playground, but now is sitting on the brinks of ruin. God even warns us that man's wisdom will come to pass.

The second thing is the fact that God gives us opportunities despite our flaws in wisdom and power. Verses 26-30 reminds me that I am really not wise by worldly standards. Sure I have some degrees behind my name, but I am far from others. That I am not or have not been in powerful positions. While most of my jobs have been fun and placed me all over the world, I still had little say so. And the fact that I was not of noble birth. Although, I am a product of a good Christian mother and father. Despite missing the worlds mark, God has given me opportunities that I could have never achieved without His placing me in them.

And finally, I was reminded that my hope as a believer in Christ is my daily power, wisdom, and insight to all my needs and desires. That those who are not of the Christ life spend their time mocking Jesus, fighting for Christianity to go away, and slapping Christians in the face for a "soft" belief or "intolerable" belief. But, if the character of God is true; and I believe it is, it is those people who are foolish.

As you reflect over the past year and search for the next one, remind yourself where the source of your life comes from - Jesus Christ. Verse 30 says "He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom and our righteousness and sanctification and redemption. Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boasts in the Lord." Be thankful for the opportunities that God has given you and the unknown ones ahead.

The Ultimate Christmas Song

Click the title and enjoy this great performance of the 12 Days of Christmas. It's talent no doubt!

The Adoration of the Magi

This is one the most beautiful pieces of art located in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC (my opinion as of last month). It is entitled, The Adoration of the Magi and was painted by Fra Angelico and Fra Filippo Lippi around 1440. As part of an Italian exhibit of paintings rendering the life of Christ and others, there was no question to me that this stood out from them all.

This painting is colorful, it glows, and it draws you to the center from any angle. But more importantly to me is the detail of the painting. Notice the streets are packed with people like you and me, waiting to experience the true meaning of Christmas (yes even they stood in lines). It includes the wealthy of the day and the poor of the day. People are worshiping in a variety of ways, and I would guess some are even questioning others while waiting to see this baby boy lying in a manger. Seeing this painting a few weeks ago was a good reminder to me of why we celebrate Christmas. Outside of the museum that day was a freshly packed ice rink with hundreds of people, Santa Clause signs and Christmas Trees adorned the National Mall. But, this picture, with all its glow and simplicity spoke volumes to those passing by that, in fact, a Savior had been born and the people of the day were experiencing it. Whether it was those present in the inn, the artists of the 1400's, or you and I today, a Savior has been and his name is Christ the Lord.....

Luke 2

The Birth of Jesus Christ

¹In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. ²This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. ³And all went to be registered, each to his own town. ⁴And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, ⁵to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. ⁶And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. ⁷And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

⁸And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. ¹⁰And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. ¹²And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
¹⁴"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!"

¹⁵When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us." ¹⁶And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. ¹⁷And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. ¹⁸And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. ¹⁹But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. ²⁰And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Merry Christmas !

Santa's Got a New Ride

There are many sites to see regarding Christmas in downtown Richmond, Va. From the tacky Christmas lights tour to the decorated doors on Monument Avenue, there is a lot going on.

Yesterday, Kelly, Brendan, and myself headed to Monument Avenue in the afternoon to look at the decorated doors. It really is neat to see the number of people out with their cameras taking photos of these historical homes and the giant wreaths with colored ornaments hanging from them (one lady even asked Kelly if she was a decorator getting ideas - ha ha).

While blocking traffic and looking out of our car window, in the corner view of my eye, I spotted Santa. It was Santa and his 1960's prestige Cadillac with a bow on top and presents inside. The expression from Brendan's mouth was enough to scare any reindeer away. So, I cut through a round a bout in the middle of the street while spinning tires in the slushy snow just to get up close to see Santa and his new ride. And it was a Christmas treat. May be a close second to cousin Eddie pulling up the driveway in his RV to visit the Griswald's.

The afternoon drive - by ended with a great Starbucks drink and utter amazement of Santa sitting in a Caddy located in historical downtown Richmond with homes decorated in "class."

Mason Nation

After twelve years of parenting a child through local public schools, international schools, and private schools, my oldest son Tyler will be continuing his education following his senior year. He will be joining the fan crazed "Mason Nation" (you remember the basketball team who rocked the Final Four) of George Mason University.

Like many other parents who have children in college, I too look forward to wearing my $40,000 t-shirt and hat that proudly displays my indebtedness to a new institution of higher learning.

Snowy Birthday

The excitement of birthday cake, ice cream, and presents is usually enough fun. But, 12 inches of snow on top of that is sure bliss. And yesterday, our family celebrated Kelly's birthday and snow!

After making the drive home from work on Friday night and waking up to a foot of snow, I knew it would be a good day. It started with a good cup of coffee, followed by eggs (in a black iron skillet), uncured bacon meat, and grits. We cleaned sidewalks, scrapped cars, and threw a few snowballs while taking family photos. The afternoon brought about the making of homemade snow cream (with my dad's recipe), college basketball, and a short winters nap.

Now I was ready for the evening - a fine meal to be prepared for Kelly and the baking of Red Velvet cupcakes. As I have mentioned before, being an accomplished chef would be a goal of mine. So, I do all I can at home to work on this accomplishment. The menu for the night was a Mustard Herb Glazed Salmon with a Gorgonzola and Porcini Mushroom Risotto and Broccoli on the side. Hmmmmm... if I say so myself.

The final pinnacle of this snow filled birthday was a date on the couch to watch Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye in White Christmas. Snow, Snow, Snow.........(you know you want to sing it!)

30,975....

The above number is the total of people for 2009 who have signed into the Cool Spring Rec Center. These people have walked the track, played in the game room, lifted weights, participated in aerobic classes, and played basketball during open gym. As a Rec Ministry we celebrate this number. And as a Rec Minister, I say thanks to those who have participated and to the the great Rec Center Volunteers for their continued ministry to those using the facility.

But this is more than a numbers game. While I will not disagree that tracking numbers can help us achieve certain goals, I do not want to get stuck on the "number" agenda. And I do not want our people working in recreation ministry to think in terms of "numbers." I want our people to think in terms of "opportunity." With the people who use our facility, church members and community members, how are we doing with our opportunities. The opportunity to greet them with a good first impression, the opportunity to speak with them about their daily lives, the opportunity to spend real time with them, and the opportunity to share with them the life changing message of Jesus Christ.

Sure, the above digits are big. But without intentional investment in those opportunities, those digits are simply numbers. And it's not numbers we want, it's opportunities we pray for!

A Gift For You

In the spirit of giving this Christmas Season, I am giving away two Cool Spring Recreation t-shirts. Your choice of a blue ring t-shirt with logo on front or a white t-shirt with small logo on front and larger on the back.

Respond now and the first two have themselves a great gift!!

Prayer on Track

Reminder that we are in the midst of our Prayer Walk in the Rec Center for the "Missing Peoples." Come out and use the track to pray for the nations.

Remember Being Kids

Saturday I was in Washington DC with my wife, youngest son, and my mom to see the Washington Wizards play. Yes, my mom loves a good NBA game! And we were privileged enough to have done it from the floor behind the bench. While we were in town and I was trying to thaw out from the previous days fishing trip, we stopped in Starbucks off Pennsylvania Ave for a warm drink (temps were still around 40). And the sign I saw hanging in the door caught my attention.

"I wish GROWN UPS could remember being KIDS"

This was great! Multiple thoughts hit my head all at once. I thought about the fun of Christmas and the anticipation it brings as we decorate the tree as a family, resort back to the days of receiving Radio Flyer wagons, Schwinn bikes, opening new pajamas on Christmas Eve, Eggnog, and the spread of Hickory Farms. I then thought about my youngest, Brendan. With his strong personality and independent nature, he can find himself in a pickle every now and then. And to often I over jump the situation, not remembering what it was to be a kid and make some of the same decisions he seems to be making now (with my mom present I couldn't help but be reminded I did the same things). And then Sunday morning, my friend Friar Tuck spoke about Christmas from a young heart perspective. He reminded us that we may grow old in years and our views of the magical Christmas may change, but Christ desires us to approach Him like a child. In a "kidlike" faith we accept His gift to us - the birth,death, burial, and resurrection of a Savior. And it's only when we respond in that "kid" like faith that we truly grasp and depend on Him for all things.

Wow, little did I know that a simple cup of Joe from Starbucks would lead to such thought and reflection of my life. From the joys of Christmas memories with my family, to my struggles of parenting and remembering what it is like to be a kid, and the overwhelming joy of simply responding in "Kid" like faith to embrace the greatest love ever given.

I invite you to read the sign hanging in the blog one more time.Go ahead, act like "kid." It's a great day for it!

When the Fish Don't Bite

Unfortunately we didn't come home with any trophy fish. However, we did come home with cold bones and a good time (yes it did end being a great boat ride in 20 degree weather with 1 ft seas and 8 mile winds).

As I have reflected on this time, the question that arises is, "how do we respond when the fish don't bite?" Some would consider this day to be a "skunk" and not look favorably on it. Others would say it was a good day because a "bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work." And the opinions could go on. My response would be that it was a good day. It was a good day because I had the opportunity to build relationships with the other guys I was fishing with, I had the opportunity to talk about spiritual journeys, and it was a good day because in those conditions we remained safe and protected from harm.

Fishing is both a term and a profession we see used throughout scripture. Look at the number of times Jesus said, "let your nets down and follow me." Or when Jesus said, "I will make you fishers of men." There is a lot going on here with this idea of fishing. People understood the profession and now Jesus was calling them to apply the same disciplines in order to connect and create relationships with people.

It really was amazing for me to watch my outdoor friends prepare lines on Thursday and Friday. They set certain hooks. They cut and trimmed certain materials so the bait would look just right. They changed bate and reset hooks for certain depths of water and currents. They chartered the map of the Potomac River Thursday night and again on Friday morning. All of theses details generated the excitement of the possibilities that were ahead of us - a big catch. However, even with all these preparations we still did not catch a fish. In fact we, along with other commercial boats, did not report a bite on the lines.

As Christians we have been called to fish - to share the good news of what Christ has done in our daily lives with others around us. But in order for us to share, we have to learn to be intentional. Jesus was intentional with others every day (John 4:1-41). He took the initiative and He engaged others despite the circumstances surrounding Him and others. Being intentional begins with setting your heart and mind on the things of Christ and expecting God to use you throughout the day. Yes, it also will require us to be prepared for that moment as well. Be prepared to share your story, pray with someone, or share a scripture verse you have recently learned or applied in your own life.

A former professor of mine said this, "You have to love fishing more than you do catching." These words summed it up for me. Not everyday will I catch fish, share the gospel, or see someones life transformed. But every day, like my outdoor friends, I can be excited about preparing myself for the possibilities that may come each day. I can be excited about my story, what I am reading the Bible, and how God is growing and challenging me. I can be excited about simply fishing. And leave the results to God.

Today, be excited about your story and God's message to the world (The Christmas Story). And learn to enjoy fishing more than you do catching. Remember, it's the process of growth in our lives that brings joy to our Saviors face.

Brrrr..on the Bay

Tonight I am leaving to meet some of the guys in the Outdoor Ministry - Brent Bosher, Tod Danaker, and fellow blogger Greg Edmonds (http://trophytalk.blogspot.com). We will be heading out of Reidville to the Bay for some good Striped Bass / Rockfishing. I hope the fish will be biting, because I do not particularly want to go on a boat ride in 29 degree weather for the scenery! Hope to post some photos of my upcoming citation.

Christmas Fact

The city of Santa Clause is located in Indiana.

Story of Our Tree

First of all, my family is a "fresh cut" Christmas Tree kind of family. While I have an appreciation for the "artificial," it just doesn't make its debut in our home. We are also good old fashion fat bulbs kind of people as well. And I love to sit and look at the tree with its light and all its glory.

As I was sitting this morning and gazing into the bulbs and the ornaments, my mind began to run wild. Looking at each of the ornaments reminded me of a particular moment in my life, Kelly's life, Tyler's life, and Brendan's life. You see our tree is full of ornaments that have a story. Some are photos from each of our childhoods, some are hand made creations, some are gifts from people, and some are from other countries in the world. With each ornament comes a reminder of how God has orchestrated our lives, developed us as individuals, and provided great opportunities to experience His story in our own lives. The tree we share together is also representative of the life we share together.

The same should be true of our relationship with Christ. Like the Christmas tree and it's decorations, our lives have been decorated with spiritual markers. Those moments in our lives where God provided, led us in a new direction, brought hope in difficult times, and the list could go on. And as we reflect on those spiritual markers, our response should be a beaming glow of joy, trust, and worship.

Take a few moments to think back in terms of your spiritual journey. See how God has guided your path and hold tight the spiritual markers. For that's what has decorated your life and given you a story to tell.

Noble Warrior

This morning a group of guys from our Outdoor Ministry had breakfast with Mike Young - director and founder of Noble Warriors Ministry.

Mike has been working with Noble Warriors since 2004 and is focused on men capturing a passion to be leaders in their home, family, work, and wherever they go. It is estimated that the average man following Christ will spend 100 hours or less a year reading their Bible outside of traditional church service opportunities. Noble Warriors is working hard to help men understand the need for daily fellowship with Christ in order to have positive fellowship with their spouse, children, and other relationships. Currently Mike is on his 2009 Cracker Barrel Tour where he meets men of the community in order to connect with them and help them move forward in their lives, as well as practical ways to live out out our their faith.

Check out noblewarriors.org for more information.

Wizards of the Adult League

Tonight we are hitting the "hardwood" in DC. The two teams who won their leagues in the Cool Spring Adult Basketball League will be watching the Washington Wizards and the Toronto Raptors.

Each season we try to improve our league from various levels. This year we are providing the winners with tickets to the Wizards game. It will be a time for us to have fun together, talk about life, and develop better relationships. And for the guys, it will be a time for them to enjoy the reward of a winning season.

Popcorn, basketball, hip hop, and the Cool Spring Adult League...what a combination!

Organization

Though I am a little behind where I would like to be, currently we are looking at the 2010 Recreation Calendar. This calendar holds all the key dates for leagues, seasons, classes, and you name it. And it fills up fast.

As I have been reflecting on our calendar from a recreation perspective, I have learned that we are busy. This is not a negative. But it does require one leadership principle: organization. Organization helps us achieve our mission statement, "combining the gift of leisure with the companionship of Christ." Being organized allows us to ensure we have the volunteers needed, the gym available, classroom space open, league schedules prepared, and future events that do not overlap.

I've been reading the book of Nehemiah and I am a long time fan of Nehemiah! This book opens all obstacles in regards to leadership and gives us directives in how to be better leaders. One leadership principle that Nehemiah demonstrates is: organization. Chapter 3 is simply a list of those who were grouped together (professions, individuals,, and families) to accomplish specific tasks. And it really is awesome to see how the vision of God was brought about because one man, following God's plan, was organized.

The combination of recreation and ministry will open a lot of doors for opportunity to connect with people and offer recreational activities. As you begin to plan and implement them, work hard to be organized. It will be a benefit that will enable you to accomplish your goal/mission and it will speak volumes to those participating.

As you look at your own personal life, work hard to be organized. Today's culture pulls us in all directions with activities and jobs. It takes intentional focus on our part to work at knowing our calendars and family activities. And, leadership in the home is needed as much as it is in the work place.

So, be a leader and be organized.

Living the Upward Spirit

This week our Upward Leadership team lost a creative and passionate member, Beth Pett. Beth entered eternity to be with the Lord following a difficult period of illness. Throughout the last several years, Beth served as a parent, coach, picture day coordinator, and end of season celebration coordinator. In each of these areas, Beth gave it her best. She looked out for the interest others over herself. It was her desire to see that families had a great experience playing soccer and that children were given the opportunity to be introduced to a relationship with Christ.

As we celebrate Beth's life, we can be reminded that today she is rejoicing in the arms of her loving Savior, Jesus Christ. The scripture speaks to us clearly in regards to eternal life. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him will not persih, but have ever lasting life." For Beth, the words of our Lord can be heard, "well done thy good faithful servant."

If you have questions or want to talk more about having the assurance of eternal life, simply contact me - genglish@coolspring.org

Beth will be missed and remembered for "Living out the Upward Spirit and Mission."