Getting Ready - 1

Well, Christmas is almost here again. We prepare for everything...so, how is the preparation going for Christmas? I'm not talking about the decorations or the shopping, but rather, the heart...getting ready for the real reason...the Savior coming to earth in the form of man, a baby.

I, and others, are using a little guide to help us prepare this year. Its called "Christ in Christmas - Advent Devotionals". A simple Scripture reading for each day leading up to Christmas. I want to share my thoughts as I go through this process.

Days 1-4:
Genesis reminds me of the need for it all. Mankind was wonderfully created by God. We were to know Him and be known by Him. We were to enjoy an intimate relationship with Him, but that was all wrecked by sin. The sin had to be punished and that punishment is still with us all today. In the midst of God's dealings with Adam and Eve, hope is still evident...a promise is made...reconciliation is available.

As Isaiah said, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned...For unto us a Child is born, to us a Son is given...and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

WOW...in the midst of my sin, God still offers me hope, a promise and reconciliation. The God of the universe loves me so much that He would send His Son, His ONLY Son, to bring me back to Himself.

What a great moment in time, when God stepped into our existence to rescue us!

Sample of Catalyst Worship

Steve Fee & Catalyst Worship Band singing "All Because of Jesus".

Catalyst Reflections

This last week I received the CD's of the sessions from this year's conference in early October. It brought back so many great memories.

This was the first time I had ever been to Catalyst and it was all that I expected, PLUS so much more. God used the speakers to challenge my heart and my thinking. I definitely returned home changed.

I look forward to receiving the DVD's soon!

Larry King's Thoughts

Interesting to hear what Larry thought after his interview...

http://edition.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2008/08/08/lkl.about.thurs.cnn?iref=videosearch

Other Thoughts on Chapmans

Here are the thoughts from Jim Houser, Steven's manager. His blog is a "must read" through this whole tragedy.

http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/jim/2008/08/impressions-of.html

Chapman Family on Larry King Live

We quietly sat last night with our family and friends to watch Larry King interview Steven Curtis, Mary Beth and kids. It was very, very moving...almost hard to believe that some questions were asked and then expected to be answered. I was on the verge of tears and also on the verge of joy as I heard the family speak. I love to see the reality of faith in Jesus Christ lived out, even in the midst of difficulty and pain. My desire is to be able to do the same, if God were to call me to.

Go Yanks

The last post was that the Yankees had pulled to within 6 1/2 games of first. Well, they made it closer with that hot start out of the gate after the All Star Break. Now, after winning two out of three from Boston, they have come back to earth a little. Why is it that they have sooo much trouble beating the Orioles???

Yankees Update

What a difference a weekend makes. Just a few short days ago, the Yankees were 9 games out of first. But after a series with Boston and Tampa Bay, winning four in a row, they are now only 6 1/2 games out. With a game in Pittsburgh and then three in Toronto, its quite a good way to head into the All Star break.