Jay's blog

Back from Conference

2008-05-01T07:38:00.001-07:00

Hey all, just got back from a Facilities conference last night. The conference focused on the use, maintenance, purpose, and versatility of facilities. What I especially liked was that it all, no matter what it is, should point to the purposes of the Church and bring God glory. We as a church exist to tell, show, and demonstrate the love of Christ to our world. This is why we have dinners, donuts, conversation, Life Groups, and ministry teams, just to name a few. To enlighten the minds of our community that they do not have to be lonely and spiritually hungry. To en flame hearts to discover purpose and meaning in life.

I have just started a new communication device through the web called twitter. Funny little name, and very different in its purpose. I just thought I would give it a test drive to see if it will help me to better communicate with many. I will provide a link on this blog. Twitter simply asks "What are you doing now?" So throughout the day, I will be letting the world know, what I am doing? Right now I am reviewing notes, and blogging.

Today in National Day of Prayer, come on down to Stafford Courthouse to join a group of people that will pause and pray.

J

Wow

2008-04-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

I am saying Wow a lot this past week. Why? Good things and bad things. Right now I am at home with my sick little one Chloe. She is never sick. Never has had anything more than about a 24 hour bug. The strange thing is that she got sick early Saturday morning right before her 5Th birthday party. We managed to get through it, but we are not out of the woods yet. Wow, why would my never sick child get sick before the most important celebration of the year (in her mind).

Wow! I am blessed by our church family. The Grace series that Pastor Rich did was great. I hope that you all have had a chance to hear some of those message. We all need to be encouraged that God's grace is sufficient. I am blessed that we had such an amazing response to the Compassion project. Our totals were in the double digits of kids sponsored and that is a total home run.

Wow! My kids are growing and showing some great maturity. Kaitlyn has announced to Christa and I what she wants to be, and where she intends to go to school. Landon has been doing great in school and an awesome help around the house. Our kids are real kids, there are ups and downs but Wow they are awesome.

Wow! Christa has a birthday next weekend (about all I can say). I have a wonderful wife. Wow it is Spring, nice weather. Wow, its spring but not nice weather.

I do start a new series called "Unforgettable" this week. My prayer is that it will bless our church as it has me in the preparation. I am convinced our life on the earth is important, not for what we get, but for what we give and even leave behind. Come hear some wonderful stories of heroes of the faith and American history.

Be blessed everyone - because rain or shine - you are blessed.

J

Hole in your sandal

2008-04-09T13:58:00.001-07:00

So Chad Bledsoe and I were talking at lunch. We were both commenting on how it is so true that when God does amazing things hard times follow. We reflected on the how the Israelites are moving into the promised land, but blowing it all the time.

We laughed when we thought of the Red Sea miracle. The Israelites are looking at God's miracle of the parting of the red sea. Is it possible as they traversed the dry land between the seas there was some complaining? Do I ever in the midst of God doing some amazing things, notice the little issues in life. Just as we have heard in the series that Pastor Rich is doing, Grace is sufficient and it surrounds us. Do we notice? Or do we stop and notice the hole in the sandal.

The mountain top experiences are seemingly always followed by Monday morning issues. Jesus knew and lived that out. When we experience the hardships, like Christ did, we need to learn to receive His grace - because He understands.

Just thinking that as human beings we get a lot of opportunities to grow. Let' grow.

J

Let Hope Rise

2008-04-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone

It has been a few weeks since my last blog. So much has happened. Some good, some bad. I know that many of you can relate. I must confess I have had a hard time staying up. It weighs on me to talk to so many that are hurting and going through difficult times. Especially true when they are people that are close to us.

Last week the family dog, Thurston, was hit by a car. He had been staying with my parents in Florida. They are heart broken to lose such a dear pet that was truly a friend to the family. I will never forget bringing him home to meet the kids about 5 years ago. It is tough to see him go.

As I look around I can see that Spring is trying. March came in like a lion, and frankly outside of a few days, stayed pretty cold. In fact today - April 3- it is sleeting outside. Neverthless the cherry blossoms have blossomed and I even wore shorts just a few days ago. Spring is coming. Let Hope Rise folks. We are here for each other. Let's pray and continue to journey together.

On that note - Horizons provided 728.7 lbs of food for the Serve organization. This was amazing, and the director was just flabbergasted at the amount our church brought in. Great job everybody and thanks for all your contributions to the Kingdom of God.

Let Hope Rise, His Grace is enough for all of us. I think Pastor Rich's message this Sunday will be very timely. Grace to stand. That is so true, but sometimes hard to do. Stand. His Grace will provide hope to carry on. Let's keep going folks God is awesome.

Keep watching our land, some exciting stuff is going to be happening in just a few days.

Shalom

Jay

Not already

2008-03-06T06:52:00.000-08:00

With disbelief in staff meeting this week we discussed the tragic "Spring Forward" daylight savings time is for this weekend. I can say that not a single person has been joyful or excited about this Saturday's moving time forward. Yes friends, this weekend, a very early March 8th is that weekend to set your clock ahead one hour.

Makes me think how valuable is that hour to each of us. For most it means a loss of sleep. For others it means know SNL for Saturday night. One hour can be very meaningful in prayer. It can be wonderful for communication and relationships. One hour is something that we often waste, so think about your preparation for this weekend.

I personally will find it hard to get up on Sunday morning, and especially one hour earlier. Let's remember to pray for all of our team that is there first thing on Sunday's, they do a great job.

I am very shocked that we are in March. 2008 is rolling right along. Christa and I are making plans for the spring and summer. Trying to find a little time to get with family and have some fun. It can be hard to come by.

I am a Disney fanatic. Recently on the Travel Channel they had a full day of Disney, visiting parks, ranking rides, showing new attractions. It was awesome, wall to wall Disneyworld. My family just watched, staring in silence. Chloe would occasionally let us know that she would like to ride this and ride that. My research tells me that if we can make it there this year, she will be tall enough to do all the rides except two - Rock and Roller Coaster, and Expedition Everest. There is a small debate on if we should expose her to the Tower of Terror. Feel free to let me know what you think her. It could be fantastic or traumatic, and probably both.

Blessing to all - Here comes Spring.

J

Seasonal depression anyone?

2008-02-21T12:20:00.000-08:00

Wow, I have heard a lot of comments lately on being down, depressed, tired, and other such words. Yes it could be one of many things. One thing I did not know until the other day was that vitamin D is important to our well being. Obviously we need vitamins, but do we know how to get specific ones? I did not, but I am learning. Vitamin D is manufactured by our bodies from the sun. No sun, no vitamin D. So if you are feeling blue, a simple solution might be adding a vitamin D supplement to your diet.

Now let us pause and see if their is any other significance to this time of discouragement.
Personally I have been fighting the 'blues' for the past few weeks. I am overcoming, by praying, by choosing to smile, and by trying to offload some of my stress through fitness and family. I don't know why, but this time of year is very tough. I love the fall seaon and the holidays, but once we turn the calendar it gets tough. I/We start to get a little cabin fever and want to get outside. We ache for summer, swimming, golf, and late sunsets.

Here is the good news, Spring Break is just four weeks away. The weather as crazy as it is, has been warmer over the last few weeks and it looks like an early spring (writing this we have a forecast for snow and ice in the next 24 hours). In the meantime, choose happiness, smile, spend some time with family, and remember as a follower of Christ we have the one who sticks closer than a brother. Let's go to Him to receive a fresh blessing.

How about some new music- I am really loving a new song called "Moving Forward". You will hear it soon at Horizons. Let's keep moving and believing for God to use us to change the world.

Shalom

Jay

Oops

2008-02-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

I guess you could say that I stuck my foot in my mouth this past Sunday. In the 11am service, while talking about the tongue, I made mention that my beautiful wife was holding up well for her age. Yes, I know, it just came out. I had several people comment to me afterward. You know that I did my best to explain it away, but only dug deeper. I am paying for it this week. I make this promise to make it up to her as we go into Valentines day.

The funny thing is that I just had made a point to tell the truth with tact. The quote I used was that "everything that is said must be true, but not everything true must be said." I guess you could say I should listen to my own advice. It really is tough to be caught in your own words. The scripture is very true that the tongue is full of life and death, so be careful out there.

Speaking of Christa though, my wife looks great. She is doing much better than I am. I look at pictures of Christa and I from just a few years ago, and think what happened to me. The hair thing is what it is. Everything else I do have control over. I have renew my commitment to health. I want to get better. I know how to, now the hard part, doing it. The doing is hard for all of us, but the payoff it great.

I am learning and growing. Keep on keeping on.

J

Kids do say strange things

2008-01-24T06:47:00.000-08:00

Christa and I have been having a lot of fun lately - watching our 4 yr old. Maybe we should say hearing our 4 yr old. She can make my day - with just a few words. I just love that kind of innocence.

We are spending some time at Great Wolf Lodge a few weeks ago. As we sat pool side Chloe walked up to a lady as her family was interacting with Landon. They were from Pennsylvania and were followers of Christ, as Landon had discovered. Chloe seeing the conversation, went over to her and said "You are so pretty". The lady nearly fell into the pool. She beamed ear to ear. The next day as we were loading our car the father commented that this was a trip to celebrate a benchmark birthday (I can only speculate age). Chloe's remark had made the trip for them. Boom - a simple random kind comment and it made a huge impact on someone.

Chloe is awesome and says some great stuff, that I just wish I could bottle. Of course all my children have, and I would suppose yours to. It just once again reminds me the power of kind words. When is the last time we said with sincerity something kind to a co-worker, much less a stranger. Let me just say, that I am going to be alert to my world, and to its need for kindness that should be characteristic of Christians.

If you have young kids, treasure their words. It can change your day, and maybe somebody's world.

I saw Cloverfield, thumbs up. American Idol, nothing new. For those of you that have HD TV, I am now an addict to Sunrise Earth. Yes I am that sappy.

Blessing to all -

Jay

The Rain came

2008-01-11T09:27:00.001-08:00

I just finished reading an article that says water restrictions in the area are being lifted and that our own county reservoirs are increasing. That is great news. It happened by watching and conserving our usage, and of course rain.

I am smacked in the face with this metaphor - We have to do something, but it is God that will bring it to be. This is so applicable for the believer. Dig in, study the bible, fellowship, learn, seek God, do the spiritual disciplines - but God will bring the increase.

In my own life - I am recognizing my duty, my responsibility to be a good steward of all that I have - but it is the Lord who will bless, guide, keep, sustain, anoint, provide, and protect me. Here we are looking at what our church is about to embrace - two services. It is daunting, it is intimidating, it is exciting. I have planned, and prepared, and I have found out that I need the Lord to help me through this weekend, and every other one for that matter. God will get the glory; because He loves to use the foolish things of the world to confound the wise.

Well friends - do all that you can in life, grow. Then trust the Lord with all your heart and see that there is even more than you could ever imagine.

Happy New Year to all - only 355 days left in this one.

Jay

Okay resolutions

2007-12-31T09:32:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of 2007. We reflect. We then decide to resolve. We then think about how to make 2008 better, even make it great. It always starts with self, and how we can improve so that our quality of life improves. I mentioned in my last blog that I am reading You staying Young. Great book, great practical stuff that we can all use to better ourselves, better our health. I will be applying some new stress relieving techniques into my life - like breathing better, simple yet effective.

So in 2008 I resolve to do some benchmark things. I will finally break the 200 barrier. My weight has fluctuated for years between a low of 202 and a high of 217. Guess where I am right now.? This year, probably in the spring I resolve to get under the 200, and stay there for a week. I then plan on being at just over 200 and staying there for the rest of year.

I resolve to pray more. Really does anyone pray enough?

I resolve to focus more on the moment, and less on the future. That does not mean that I am going to forget the future. But rather living in the moment, and maximizing the moment for the future. It is kind of like the work out. I know I want to be healthy, that is a good visual and all, but when I am working out, I need to focus on making the next step, lifting the next weight, taking the next breath.

I resolve to be a better husband. I don't think I'm bad, but I want to be great. I also resolve to be a better dad. That is not easy with two teenagers, but hey I will give it a shot.

I resolve to Trust God with all my heart and to not lean on my understanding. It seems that this is a true test almost daily to not lean on what I see, read, hear, and comprehend. Trusting God is something we all say we should do, but do we, really. Do we trust for the miraculous? I sure hope that 2008 holds some big things for all of us. It of course starts with faith in Christ.

I resolve to not just do a few things for a few days, but to continually improve who I am, so I can be a better individual for God's purposes.

I resolve - I choose with determination.

See you next year. Let's have a great 2008 (That is so corny, I know)

Jay

Closing the Year

2007-12-29T11:56:00.000-08:00

Wow, this year has really flown by. I recently read in the book "You -Staying Young" that if life is moving fast then you are doing something right. Well I must really be doing a lot right to watch life pass by at this pace. Yes I am interested in staying young, as you may have noted with the book title. Young - What does that mean anyhow? I know many that in their fifties that seem to be young. I used to think that was old, but now I see it differently.

No doubt as we close the book on 2007 and begin 2008 we do so with great hope that this coming year will be the one. The one in which we lose weight, get rid of debt, save money, get fit, and all that other stuff. I would encourage us all to take 2008 as a time of reflection and planning for more. I know that God has wonderful plans for you and me. I know that He has a divine plan for Horizons church. Maybe we could all just ask of God, "Use Me to accomplish your plan here on earth". What might that mean for you. Would it mean giving something up that we feel is important to do something for God.

No one likes change, but sure enough it comes. How do we embrace it? How do we make the most out changing who we are and what we do? We do it for purposes that God created us for. That is to touch our world, and make disciples. Can we do more? Can I do more? Can I be more effective, smarter, wiser, more productive, for God's Kingdom. Yes - and so can you. Just think if we all put our efforts together to advance God's plan for mankind. It could be awesome.

So Happy New Year to you. Let us be good steward of the time and talents that God has given us. Please join us on the first Sunday in January - the 6th as we share the vision God placed upon our hearts. 2008 awaits, and people need to see and experience the Life changing power that we have in Jesus Christ.

Let Go for it with everything we've got - 2008 awaits, let's make it great.

J

December already.

2007-12-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it is December? Yes the holiday are upon us. I hope that you all had a great Thanksgiving. My parents were able to visit Christa the kids and I. We had a nice time of relaxation, football watching, and of course eating to much. I bet you had a similar kind of time. We did see the movie Enchanted - and it was great. Consider that I took my 4 year old girl, my 15 yr old son, and my 60 + parents. Everybody loved it, they all laughed a lot and we went home satisfied, so a movie home run for our fam.

It is really starting to get chilly, and their is the forecast for snow. I have to laugh when they mention snow here in VA. The grocery stores all get slammed and all the kids start praying for that beloved Snow Day. We shall see. This weather does make coffee taste better doesn't it?

For those of you that know I am an Oklahoma Sooners fan - I am satisfied with this past weekend. OU beat Mizzou handily and moved up to #3 in the AP poll and the Coaches poll. There was some talk of playing in the championship game. It did not happen as they werre 4th in the BCS final and missed the big game by that much. That is the way it goes. I am very happy to see them play West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl. By the way OU only loses a couple of players. Their entire offense with the exception of two players returns. The defense virtually everyone. IN other words, I have great expectations for 2008.

Make sure to check the church website for postings concerning our building. You can also listen to past sermons from the church there. Pastor Rich has been speaking on the topic Life Swap. It has been a great teaching on personality types and how to relate to others. I highly recommend it. On the 16th of the month we will be celebrating all that God has done this past year. When we start to talk about it, and put it on paper, we really are blessed to see what God has done through the ministry.

Thanks to all of you that pray, support, and labor with your church family. I am so blessed to work with you and to see the joy of life change in our community.

Have a great week. Stay warm

J

More favorites

2007-11-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

I was reading a story the other day and a line from it jumped at me. "We often focus on the one or two negative things instead of thanking God for the many good things." Wow, that is so true, even to someone that is optimistic like myself. Every day I hear on the news, see on the tv, and talk to people about bad things. The reality is that there are many wonderful things to enjoy - everyday.

I think this is why I am enjoying the simple things more. My awareness at what is good in life needs to grow. For instance, when we are concerned about our children making wise choices, we need to remind ourselves that they have in the past. We should enjoy their smiles, their questions, and their complex lives.

When we wonder about our schedule and can we get it all done, remember you probably have in the past. When we have concerns about life, health, and finances we need to remember that we have made it this far with God's grace. God can make a way.

What I am saying is that we often over complicate life. At least I do. Let's enjoy the simple things, let's trust God, and enjoy ourselves. Grab some coffee, watch the leaves fall, and remember that you are loved by God. You are His son or daughter. He has a plan for us.

Here are some more favorites, like finding that 20 left in your pocket. Or when you get a card of appreciation. Being surprised by laughter from a colleague. I love when Christa and I share with each other, and we both have the same thought.

I like the challenge of stopping the gas pump on an even number. It moves so fast these days- it's tough. I love sleeping to the sound of a soft rain. I hate getting up from it though.

There really is lots to love, lots to like, lots for us to enjoy in life. Let's be realistic, we are a blessed people. That is not optimisim, that is a fact. Keep on keeping on and blessings to you all as we approach the holiday season.

Jay

More things to love or really like at least

2007-11-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone

I took the kids to the Leeland and Casting Crowns concert last night. You know how sometimes a band doesn't sound good live.? Well, not in this case. Wow, the sound was just awesome. Great mix, great night, and a really impressive live performance.

Two of the band members in Leeland are friends of me and the family. Christa and I were there youth pastors back in the day. It was really great to see them in action. I am proud of their accomplishments, but more proud of their sincerity concerning Christ and His mission.

I love to see my kids enjoying themselves, I love to catch them smiling and genuinely pleased about life. It is so hard to keep that everything is all right with the world kind of feeling in our souls, especially when everything isn't alright. As adults peace becomes a treasure that is rarely found.

I love looking at my littlest one Chloe, and watch her complete and disinterest at slow music. You could ask her what her favorite song was last night, she doesn't know. What she does know is her least favorite one - the Table song as she called it.

I love the fact that their is activity on the church ground - at last. Yeah, baby, Yeah. (I know many of you will think I am lame for using that yeah baby thing.) Check the Time to Build logo on the website for the latest updates as we will be using that to keep everyone posted.

I love the earlier than ever commercials for Christmas are here. Those seem to come earlier every year. The Christmas movie that was reserved for December showing, now shows up on the second week of November. Yes, we are entering the Christmas and Holiday season. We all love that don't we.

Blessings to all

J

Simple things - Passion

2007-11-06T07:06:00.000-08:00

I was just wondering to myself what am I passionate about. I know that there are certain times of year, events, and sports teams that I just love and can't wait for. ON a personal note, the older I get the more I enjoy some of the simple things.

I enjoy a cup of coffee on a cool morning, watching the wind blow and the leaves change. I love the crisp evenings, fall festival's. I love a short line for a great ride. I love the smell of bacon. I love the feeling of fresh knit sheets on the bed. I love to watch my kids getting along. I love the weekend of falling back, who doesn't like that extra hour to sleep. I love a good movie, a good laugh, good conversation, and good friends. I love playing Disney Scene it with the kids.

The list could go on, but I do not want to rant. Instead I want to ask you the question? What are you passion about? What puts a smile on your face? What makes you just passionate about life?

I was awakened this morning to the sound of garbage being picked up at 5:45. I did not get immediately up, but laid in bed, praying and pondering this idea of passion. Let us make sure that we are passionate about the right things, eternal things, the Jesus things. I am not passionate about getting up at 5:45am. I am passionate about passion though.

Have a great day. You make the difference in someones life everyday.

J

Angry but don't blow it

2007-10-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

I hope you all have read Pastor Rich's latest blog. Life is complicated and full of hardships but as he has stated don't quit. God is with you, get back in the fight. Now all that being said, keep your pride in check. Keep your attitude in check.

Have you noticed our world can get angry? For that matter we can to. No it is not a sin to be angry. Jesus was angry. We need some passionate people in this world to stand up for the injustice that we see and know. We need some righteous anger that will stir those that call themselves Christians to really be the examples of Christ.

So get angry, but don't blow it. Don't go postal. Don't respond to harsh emails with harsher emails. Don't think of how you can do bigger, badder damage to that person that is offending you. Every time you choose patience, you choose forgiveness, you choose love, no matter how hard it is, you are choosing Jesus. You are choosing His response. A reminder for myself, I am going to be offended, it is how I respond that matters.

Choose to respond with Life folks. I can tell you as a student that has failed many times, and still struggles to get it right, that choosing a godly, forgiving, patient response is life, life, life. Keep on keeping on my friends. If we faint not, we will reap a harvest.

J

Thanks for praying

2007-10-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone

Well it is raining today with a forecast for more - so anyone who read my last entry and prayed, thanks for praying, it worked. I love it. It finally is a little chillier with the rain and the wind. Hopefully this will continue and lead us into the winter.

Don't forget everyone that this is NOT the weekend to set your clocks back. We do have to wait one more week. Of course it can't come fast enough as we all love that extra hour of sleep. I love how dark it is in the morning, makes it hard to get up, but it is awesome to watch the sunrise.

I am going to be speaking on Pride this Sunday at Horizons. I have been brainstorming on if there was ever any prideful moments. I didn't think I had that many until I asked my wife. She reminded me that I have made just a few arrogant mistakes in life. Hey you have to. It is a difficult balance between humility and pride. I mean we are made by God, that is good. However life is not about us. Balance really is tough because we all have a self centered nature. We talk about mine, I want, I need. We focus on self. This is a huge character assassin - Pride.

I have to keep mine in check, I have to keep recognizing that it is God's amazing grace. I am smart enough, I am sharp enough, I am wise enough, to know that I am not smart enough, sharp enough, or wise enough. I just want to get better today, and then the next. I think when you and I concentrate on our character, we can change the world around us. That is the kind of stuff that makes God smile.

Now praying is very important, because we make the move to spend time with the Lord. The more we pray, the more we rely on Christ to meet our needs. It is a wonderful act to humble ourselves before the Lord, to repent of our misdeeds and seek Him for our lives. So thanks for praying - we really needed the rain here - and we got it. Thanks God, we couldn't have done it without you.

Keep praying, watch the pride, and pursue His purposes.

J

Monopoly madness

2007-10-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

Confession time. As I sit here eating some fries, I realized the marketing experts got me. I love the game Monopoly - I went years without ever losing and bragging about it. I now lose regularly so I no longer brag, but I still like to compete. Anyhow, McD's has this promotion around Monopoly. This is quite a coincidence because this past week I was playing the brand new - Credit Card edition.

I was at my brother in laws house and he had just obtained the newest version of Monopoly. All money is in millions and thousands. The card machine keeps up your account with it gains and losses. Pretty inventive and really enticing especially to the gadget freaks. My wife I am proud to say managed to win that game, she is pretty tough with her dealings.

Anyhow, I find myself driving by McDonald's and looking at the monopoly promo, 2 game pieces if you get a soda, two more on a large fry, two more on Big Mac. Collect game pieces, make the set and win cash and prizes. There is no way that I really think I am going to win, but you know what, I drove thru. Yes - the enticement to get my hands on those fries with game pieces - Wow. So it really works this marketing ploy. Nice job for them. Bad for my diet, but joy for that part of me that will always play Monopoly.

See you soon

Jay

Is it fall yet? Pray for Rain

2007-10-17T06:59:00.001-07:00

What is going on with the weather? I guess we should all be praying for rain. Rain by the way is often considered a bad thing. We refer to the rain as "Oh its raining outside!"It ruins our hair, not mine, but other's. We also say in reference to bad things happening to people "It rains on the righteous and the unrighteous."

Yet here we are being told to ration water, and that we have gone some 30 plus days without any real measurable rain. So when it does come, my perspective will change. I will thank God for the rain. I will rejoice, with many others to know that our water levels will increase. Our grass will get a soak, the trees will get a drink and show their appreciation with brighter colors.

It is just a perspective thing about rain. It is good, it is necessary, and sometimes its bad. Many of our issues or problems in life are like that. Sometimes they are necessary. God can use anything to get us from point A to point B. Right now we need it - the rain. So remember when we pass through this season and into the next - appreciate the rain when it's not as desired as today.

Speaking of a season, I am a little disappointed that the fall hasn't been spectacular with a weather change, and leaves turning color. Football is half over, that is scary. We are making plans for all of our Christmas ideas and programs. We are in the last quarter of 2007. I can't believe it. I guess we should all just count our blessings, and pray for rain.

Seriously we should pray for rain.

Starting a new series this Sunday called the Enemy Within. I am looking forward to sharing the redemptive power of Christ over our lives. So pray for Sunday and for Horizons to be a life giving church.

Be blessed

J

Family udpate

2007-10-08T10:20:00.001-07:00

Hello all

Wow, I am blessed to know that many of you are reading through my blog. It looks like this is a great tool to catch up with those of you who like to keep track with what's happening in the world of the Hawpe 5.

As I am writing this on October 8, there is joy in my heart as my beloved football team, the Oklahoma Sooners beat our arch rival the Texas Longhorns. It was a close game, and always gut wrenching to watch this great border state rivalry.

Landon my son is in high school now and doing great. I am so proud of how he has tackled the responsibilities of being a freshman. There is a lot to high school these days. They are already talking to him about college and what he plans to major in. This will shape what courses he takes in high school. Get this; he can pursue one of three different type of degrees. Each one carrying a litle more clout than the next to pursue the finer universities. Geeez - can he just figure out how to survive the high school jungle first.

Landon is still pursuing his acting talents and gets a number of compliments and opportunities. We will see what the winter and spring hold for him. He is also singing and has a wide variety of opportunities before him.

Kaitlyn is in 7th grade and enjoying her Jr High experience. The thing is she is not wanting to be a Jr Higher very long. You know, growing way to fast, and wanting more and more freedom. She is very responsible and showing some a strong desire to earn that freedom. Yes she has a cell phone, and has learned to text quite quickly. We only had 2000 text messages on our first month bill.

Kate is singing in her school choir, and in the church worship team. She has some really big opportunities that I will reveal later, once they are confirmed. She is also in dance and it makes monday nights rather busy. We are all busy chasing our kids extra curricular activities.

Chloe is in pre-school (she's 4). What can I say, it's like having Kate all over again. Strong, but very sweet. She is just constantly bringing a smile to mine and Christa's face. She loves to make her crafts at school and church, so that means a fridge full of coloring pages, cutouts, crafts, name things, etc. Wow you should see how angry she gets when I attempt to throw them away. The disposal of the massive amount of these crafts now happens in the dark of night. It is the only way to get away with it. Chloe is finding her way in the social world, as her calendar is beginning to fill with a few parties and things.

Christa my beautiful and wonderful wife, is now the business manager at Zales in the local mall. This is working to be a great part time job that she is really taking one. I am so proud of her in how the company really asked her into this position and they are taking it very serious with her training and all.

I know this is getting long for anyone to read. The Hawpe family is doing well. We appreciate all your prayers and love. God bless you - I will have more in the blog in the coming days.

Jay

The up and down.

2007-09-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

I was recently taking some time in my meditation and prayers to remember that life is a true roller coaster filled with ups and downs. I am hearing of many of my friends and family going through a discouraging time. I wish that our lives with Christ were just fun, fun, fun. The truth of real life is that it is filled with problems, disappointments, victories, fulfillment, work, play, tears, and laughter. I am constantly telling myself that problems are opportunities, but sometimes my own encouragement seems to fall on deaf ears. I find myself in the struggle and not overcoming with the zeal and ease that I should.

In the midst of all this I remember a passage in 1 Sam 30. It is a story of King David, and how he had a series of unfortunate things. He has just returned from a battle to find the Amalekites have raided Ziklag, where the Israelites had encamped. The Amalekites had carried off all the women and children. All of them. They even took David's wives. His army got so mad at him that they talked about stoning David. The men were very distraught over this incredible loss. It felt like the crunching body blow in a fifteen round fight. This was tough stuff.

In verse 6 the scripture tell us that he found strength or that he encouraged himself in the Lord. Wow, I am so moved by that statement. What true tenacity and optimism to have everything falling around you, be in the midst of the garbage and make a decision to encourage yourself. Folks that is spiritual. That is encouragement is not by a man's words, a favorite song, weather, book, coffee, or TV show. That is not fueld by how I feel, that is fueld by who I am. That is the intimate relationship the Lord wants to have with all of us.

Okay for the rest of the story. David then asks a friend "Should I pursue? Should I rescue? (v.8) When he gets the acknowledgement and the time is right, off he goes with his army in tow. Some of the men couldn't make it. David finds the raiding Amalekites and raids them. He recovers everything. (v. 18) He then plundered the Amalekites and takes their livestock.

Did you get that, he got everything back and even more. I know that sometimes we see this huge mountain, this huge Goliath, this huge obstacle. We feel down.

So encourage yourself, find strength in the Lord. Pursue your enemies and see what God would do. I am sorry to be so preachy, but I feel this is important to remind all of us to find strength in the Lord.

Shalom (Peace)

J

Addicted to Coffee

2007-09-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

So here I am a few weeks past my 39th birthday. It was pretty uneventful as I was driving the family from Memphis,TN to Roanoke, VA for 10 hours. While on this trip and since returning I have noticed something about myself - I must have coffee in the morning. I know that many of you are saying, "Join the club" or "I have done that for years."

I have enjoyed coffee, had a regular cup, no big deal. Now I crave it, my body responds to it. I get up thinking about it. We get the pot ready the night before. I yearn to hear the gurgle of the brew and have my extra large cup sitting right there waiting for some life from brown water affected by the magic bean.

I guess that I am getting older. So thanks for letting me in the coffee crowd. I am no coffee snob like some of you - but I did take some steps toward that over the past year.

Hey everyone - Heroes series for the church is off and running. We just made the name change and removed community from it. This simplified it, and made it more like the website name. Hope that everyone likes the logo.

I guess you could say it is a new day. Let's embrace change and go forward for all that God had for us.

Yes, it is fall, time for football.

Blessings to all.

J

What If We .... Wrap Up

2007-08-01T10:46:00.000-07:00

I just finished the "What If" series a few days ago. I have to tell you (whomever may be reading) that it was a challenging series. We talked about some very real issues or character qualities that we need to possess - if we hope to make a difference. I know that I am personally challenged to be more friendly, forgiving, trusting, and patient. Hey it's not easy.

Friendship is work, it takes intentionality, planning, and effort. Forgiveness is not natural -but one of the most liberating things we will ever do. Trust is the single most important in any relationship (for it to work). Lastly patience - a true challenge in our 21st century American culture. Yet patience - as we studied is truly a catalyst for champions, heroes, winners, and over comers.

What if the friendship, the forgiveness, the trust, and the patience we see in the bible and are encouraged to live in, was seen by our world. What if what was happening in the Bible happened in our lives, in our community, in our families.

A final thought as we wrap up this July series - of What If. What if you and I really determined to change our world by changing who we are? Change starts with me. Change starts with you. Praying for you and looking forward to a fantastic fall.

Pastor Rich returns from Sabbatical and will be speaking on "Heavyweights" Sundays in August. Come learn how to handle that weight on your shoulders.

Blessings to all,

J

Storms

2007-07-20T07:10:00.000-07:00

Wow

Today is the day after a pretty fierce storm. As I looked out the window I could see the clouds forming and sky getting dark. The next thing you know, I could see the wind whipping and rain just pouring. Then it rained sideways, you know where the wind is so fierce that the rain is falling diagonally.

A tree broke in front of the office and a portion of it fell onto the sidewalk. This is was a fast moving blow in, blow up, blow out kind of storm. I hadn't seen one of these that looked so dark in a long time.

Yes, life is like that. In fact many of us are in storms right now. I recently read an article from Rick Warren that said life is a series of problems. You are either in one, just out of one, or about to be in one. Yet it seems we are always surprised to be in one. Surprised and in disbelief that we could be enduring this, or going through this. I want to encourage all of you. I want to encourage myself. Storms blow, Christ is constant. Me - I guess I am sometimes the leaf, blown about, and sometimes the rock.

We all will encounter storms. Remember our life is the warm up act for eternity. We go through problems to grow character. I know what you are thinking, when is our character going to be grown. I wish my was fully there, but I guess it isn't. So from time to time, the rains come, the winds blow, it gets dark. Then after all the nastiness the sun shines, and a new day begins.

Shalom (Peace) to you all

J

"In the end the pessimist may be right, but the optimist has a better time on the journey along the way."

An interesting trip

2007-07-10T12:38:00.000-07:00

Well hello there,

The past week or so has been quite interesting for me and the family. We had the awesome privilege of going to Owego, NY to conduct a wedding for the Shantz family. The ride was supposed to take about 6 hours. Several road construction projects and That beltway caused the trip to last about 10 hours. My kids are traveling champs and only asked "Are we there yet?" a couple of times.

The wedding was beautiful and all went well in Owego. From there it was off to the Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. I have always been enthralled with this place due to its number of roller coasters and how awesome they are. Well I was not disappointed in the park. However, I do have to tell you about my Griswold moment.

I love getting to the park early. I love being in front of the crowd. I love making the most of my day in the park. I drive my family, I don't let them take breaks, I study park maps, I plot the day, I know when the show times are going to be. I am very ambitious about rides and knowing when the best time to be there is.

So we got up on Monday morning last week, ready to go. Breakfast eaten, backpack ready, everyone into the van, and a quick turn of the key. Nada. No power, battery dead. The park opens at 10am and its 9:30.

I run into the hotel to see if anyone has jumper cables. The only guy that does is a little upset with hotel management over his room. He volunteers his cables as soon as he is donewith his discussion. The cables wouldn't stretch across the median of where my van was parked. Back to the hotel to find the guy that drives the blue Chevette. Guy found, moves his car, and jumper cable guy maneuvers his vehicle into a position that allows us to make a connection.

Fire the van up and off to Wal Mart for a battery check. I suspect it is the battery since it is the original and it has gone over 60,000 miles. New battery installed and off to the park, about 2 hours behind schedule and in the midst of the crowd. We got in a few big rides, but the crowd was huge. Guess I am not the only one that likes big roller coasters.

We did manage over the course of two days to ride some awesome stuff. The Maverick is a new smooth as silk coaster that is awesome. The Millenium Force a 300 foot drop broke a world record back in 2000, and yes very fun. I missed out on the 120mph 90 degree up and down coaster known as "Dragster". Next time I guess.

Anyways a good trip, very glad to be back to home. Glad to be back to the normal traffic. Really enjoyed Sunday, and I do hope that we all take friendships a little more seriously.

Blessings to all

Jay