Happy New Year

Well, here we are.. 01/01/09. It even looks odd to see it in print. Today is the day that we all make plans for the new year; plans to get out of debt, loose weight, simplify our lives, etc, etc. And then in a week or so, we'll look back and wonder how things could get out of hand, again, so easily.

I've decided to take a slightly different approach this year. Yeah, I'm like many of you... Definitely need to loose some around the middle, definitely need to find some traction financially in these tough economic times. But, I've decided that I want 2009 to the year of open eyes. The past two years have been "reactionary" a little bit. We've battled cancer, taken on the role of parents, and continued to explore life in a VERY young church. This year, I want to be even more aware of the opportunities that God gives me, and then be faithful to respond.

At the same time, I also know that I can't get caught up in the business trap that is so easy for Christians to fall prey to. Busy does not equal Godly... so I guess that brings me back to balance. Am I rambling?

Anyway, I'm excited about the opportunities. I'm excited about seeing RCC take another step towards maturity. I'm excited to travel to India and see the Holy Spirit do what ONLY He can do in a place that is so dark. I'm excited to see another church that RCC will partner with begin to take root in Fargo, ND. And I'm excited to see how my family will continue to morph and develop.

I'm looking forward to a great year... and I hope that you are as well.

Surprises, adventures, and a really long flight

I don't know very much Greek or Hebrew, but there has to be something in scripture about God being "One who Surprises."  The past 12 months have been full of them, and His finger prints have been all over them.  

Tonight, I'm sitting in the food court at Newark/Liberty International Airport, and will board a Continental jet for a 14.5 hour flight to the East in just about 2 hours.  Where in the world did that come from??  I chuckled to myself last night when our Lead Pastor, Ridley Barron, mentioned that yesterday was the 3 year anniversary for Pam and I being at RCC.  All that did was remind me again about the surprises and adventures that come with pursing Christ.  Didn't mean to chase that rabbit, but it goes to the point...  when we determine to place our lives in His hands, He will surprise.  Sometimes it's a surprise of a smile, and sometimes it's a surprise of traveling around the world for His fame.

Some believe that the life of being a Christ follower is confined to a list of do's and don'ts or the safety of a "Christianized culture."  I'm learning that there is amazing freedom and adventure that comes with pursuing Him.  If you are struggling with the "safety" of your faith; if you are board with the cobwebs of religious tradition and opinion; then cast your sails fully and make yourself available to the breath of the Holy Spirit.  You'll be amazed where He will take you.  It might be across the street, across town, into unchartered relationships, or maybe to the far corners of the world.

The journey is big... the challenge is great... but my God is Mighty.

Check this blog frequently this week for updates from India.