Kyle Lantz

Happy Birthday Grandma Theda

2010-11-07T11:10:00.006-05:00

As I clicked on my Google Calendar this afternoon, I was reminded that today would have been Grandma Theda's 76th birthday. Had I the privilege of being with her today, I would have given her the biggest "lower back slapping hug" she's ever received. I would have sang Happy Birthday to her..."organ hymn style". I would have made her as much food as I possibly could. I definitely would have made her an angel food cake with strawberries on top. I would have made her a t-shirt quilt. I would have raked all the leaves in her yard. I probably would have played a rousing game of "The Quarter Game" with her and the rest of my cousins in hopes that Grandma might tackle me to the floor as she sought out her greatest desire in gamesmanship...a victory!

All of these things only begin to scratch the surface of memories of Grandma. Mostly, though, I would have sat her down and asked her more about her life*. I would have asked her why she served the way she did. I would have asked her how she accomplished so much in a day. I would have asked her how she stored up so much love for her grandchildren. I would have sat and listened to her (and I would have made her stay focused). I miss my Grandma and I wish I could tell her today that I love her.

I hope she knew she was loved. Now, I know she KNOWS she is loved!

*Please take some time today to tell someone you love that you love them. Step away from what can become "our routine" and step into someone else's reality. Ask someone about them. Show them you love them.

Two months from today.

2010-10-30T07:36:00.005-04:00

Blogs are blogs. At least I used to think this. In fact, I've often thought blogs are the pinnacle symbol (okay, Twitter has definitely passed this up) of the Narcissistic culture we've come to embrace as normal.

Pictures, stories, thoughts, and words all about us. I believe human beings have always been self-centered at our core, but the media outpouring of me, me, me has reached an all time high. We no longer have to read about stars in weekly magazines or watch the nightly gossip entertainment television. We can be the stars of our own lives and we can tell the world how great we are.
Okay, I'll stop being cynical now. If I went on any longer, I'd only further my status as a blog-writing hypocrite. After all, I update my status on facebook. I write on this blog...occasionally. I read my friends blogs, look at their facebook pictures, and occasionally see a twitter feed. These can't be all bad. There is, in reality, much good about this technology. We, as broken human beings, take all good things (and most things possess good) and figure out how to abuse, overuse, and idolize them (but more about that another time).

The reason I can no longer say, "Blogs are blogs," is because I'm getting married two months from today, and one far from insignificant part of me meeting, dating, and now marrying such an incredible woman is because of this blog.

I thought it time to notify the watching world (who am I kidding :)) via devices other than "Facebook's relationship status" and wedding "STDs (save the dates)" that I am marrying KELSEY GRACE TRAVIS on December 30, 2010! How could I not post about this, since it was about 15 months ago that Kels stayed up late one night reading this entire blog, a bit about the life of the man she would soon meet, learn to love, and eventually wed.

No, I do not believe it is because of this blog that I am marrying Kelsey. We believe in a big God, who was gracious enough to allow us to meet at the right time. Much of our relationship has been long distance, therefore we are incredibly grateful for technologies such as Skype, Gmail, and Google Voice. But, because of our time together (in person AND virtual), we have extreme peace, joy, and excitement about sharing life together for our days left on this earth. We have much to be thankful for, notably that blogs aren't just blogs. And if my blog got me a girl this good*, ya know what, I'm okay with that.

*Don't worry, Kels, I know (hope) this isn't true.

Life just happens...

2010-06-26T21:51:00.006-04:00

It was raining this morning when I woke up. I sat and talked to my mom about the recent, sudden death of my grandma, her mom, just 3 weeks ago. I hopped in the shower before taking my new suit that I needed for a wedding to a nearby seamstress's home in Syracuse. I carried the suit in, we became acquainted, and I put the suit on only to find that my un-hemmed pants were literally 4 inches too short...not a big deal, but it got me thinking on the way home.

Sometimes life just happens. We can plan, prepare, and perspire all you want, but so often we're left asking, "Really? Did that just happen?" You can think you're on some ordinary errand to get your pants hemmed only to find out you're going to have to spend the next week chasing down a properly manufactured pair of trousers ("pants" are undergarments in Ireland). A simple, unobtrusive example of how life seems to alter its course when we least expect it...

The death of my Grandma has had me thinking often about how I live each day. She was on her way to a graduation open house, simply seeking to encourage and love a graduating senior girl and her family, when she was struck by a car. She was gone in a moment. We weren't "prepared" for this. Grandma wasn't prepared for this...or was she? Can we be prepared for the unexpected that life brings?

I believe Grandma was, because, more than about any person I've ever known, Grandma lived each day as though it were her last. I believe I've heard a quote something like: "Never save for tomorrow something you can/should do today." That's how Grandma Theda lived. And, because of Grandma's obvious and surrendered faith in Jesus Christ's ability to save and redeem, she was living with hope, purpose, and a fueled determination.

So, while Grandma had no idea what was going to happen to her on June 5 (none of us could have), she was, in the most important ways, prepared. And, for those of us left to mourn and grieve, we must seek to live life "prepared" for the things that no can really prepare for because, sometimes, life just happens.

The Way in Which

2010-01-28T17:03:00.005-05:00

The blame game is easy. The blame game is natural. It's never my fault. How could it be? It's so nice to never be the one responsible when something goes wrong. And, especially when I am personally offended, maybe even severely suffering, it's great to know that I certainly did nothing wrong.

I don't claim to have faced the worst of trials. I haven't had a lot of really terrible things happen "to me" in my life. But, we all know that each day brings us frustrations and hurts and annoyances in hugely varied forms.

So, my point is not what happens to us. My point is that "the way in which" we respond to these things is what we can control. I'll let a man speak on this matter who, in fact, has had immense pain and oppression thrust upon him through his experiences in Nazi concentration camps.

Viktor Frankl, author of A Man's Search for Meaning, said:

The way in which a man accepts his fate and all the suffering it entails, the way in which he takes up his cross, gives him ample opportunity - even under the most difficult circumstances - to add a deeper meaning to his life...Here lies the chance for a man either to make use of or to forgo the opportunities of attaining the moral values that a difficult situation may afford him. And this decides whether he is worthy of his sufferings or not...His unique opportunity lies in the way in which he bears his burden.

This lesson struck me painfully close to home as I read about this man's response to his circumstances. I stop. I look around me. This is where I am. This is what I have. This is what I'm doing right now. Whatever it is. Good or bad. Difficult or relaxing. Frustrating or smooth sailing.

How will I respond to what's in front of me...right now?

I think Frankl would support a mantra that I have been reminded of a lot recently: Do hard things. And not just to do them. But I'm guessing, if you push through, in reliance upon a God who is way bigger than the biggest of difficult circumstances, you'll be better off in "the long run".

"Inconvenience." An Epiphony.

2009-12-01T20:12:00.002-05:00

Today. Today was a good day. I can say that now. Now that I have thought about it and realized what an idiot I can be.

About a year and a half ago I was taking one of those personality tests, for the 17th time, and I realized something...I realized something in my mind but I'm not sure it transferred into my reality. This test revealed me to be quite task-oriented (as opposed to people-oriented). I had scored this way before and it really bothered me. I know for a fact that I really like people so to be labeled as one who seems to "orient" themselves around the opposite end of the spectrum was frustrating.

I then began to accept the fact that I may in fact like to accomplish tasks. I then burst out of the "personality type box" by beginning to understand that I might just be task-oriented in my interactions with people.

Okay, I do have a point to this narcissistic discussion of my personality.

Today, I felt like I was inconvenienced or interrupted constantly. This frustrated me. I got annoyed. I got cranky because I couldn't do the things that I had set out to do when the day began. By golly, I have a flight to Norway tomorrow and people were getting in the way of all that I had (or thought I had) to do before I left*.

I get up this morning and on my way to my office I run into two of the ladies who work at the YWCA. Phenomenal conversation, but they delayed my arrival to my office.

People were in my office. I couldn't get things started so I went inside and hid in the living room.

Someone found me in the living room and we chatted for a few minutes.

Then someone else found me and we actually worked on a task (not so bad of an inconvenience).

By this time, more people came in and we got to chatting and it was time for lunch.

As I was eating my lunch, the butcher came by. I owed him money and we talked about his holiday to Spain.

I went back out to the office to write a report and my former boss and professor (who probably will read this) was on Skype with Laura. Two hours later, while still on Skype, I took a very welcomed phone call from someone in the States.

Then, I tried to head to my office when the neighbor boys asked me to play with them. By this time, I was catching on....so I wrestled around with them and shot them with rubber bands...and I had a blast.

Right around the time I thought I could squeeze in an hour of work, one of my students returned from England and he needed help sorting through his luggage.

Then, it was time for dinner out with some friends. A long dinner. A great time.

I got back to find that I needed to take another student into Bray because her phone didn't work and she was stranded at midnight with no lift.

And, now, at 1:32 am, rather than do work, I thought I would use this blog to teach myself a lesson.

People were getting in my way?? Whaaaattt?! Who am I? People are more important than tasks**.

And, hopefully, for the rest of my life, people will continue to "get in my way" and maybe, at some point, I will begin to see people as way more than an inconvenience, and more of a blessing.

*For those who "inconvenienced me today, please know that I really do like you. And, at the time, I probably wasn't just tapping my foot wondering why you had to mess up my day. I am just realizing the way I can be.
**I do realize that, at times, tasks are very important.

Blogs to check out...

2009-11-25T19:48:00.002-05:00

I don't think a lot of people are frequenting this blog (which is totally fine) but I thought I'd post a few blogs on here that I think are worth checking into....with all of your spare time:

City Grace : Joel Hamernick (This guy is living in the south side of Chicago and has great thoughts on the beauty of the city and the gospel of peace, as well as challenges to the way Christians live and think).

The Transformation : Kory and Ali Lantz (I'm biased. This is my brother and sister ("in law") and tells of their life and ministry in South Bend. I love them and am proud of them and you can hear honestly of their need for prayer).

Road to Adoption : Julie and Alan Briggs (This is an incredible couple of people living what they say they believe. This blog chronicles their journey, currently, toward adoption of two beautiful Ethiopian children...they can always use prayer and money to support this).

Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strenght : Heather Dawes (My cousin is finishing up a semester in Zambia. She's been challenged and has a great story to tell).

AC to the Max : Adam Cramer (Despite his blog name having his initials in it, this kid is a dear friend who has been in Africa for a year and has great thoughts and I love the way he serves. He also is one spot below me in the current fantasy football standings).

If you have a rainy day, here's some reading material.

Names of God

2009-11-20T19:07:00.003-05:00

I was putting together a solo experience (time alone with God) for tomorrow morning for my students when Kelsey pointed me to this video. It is incredible and a great way to just meditate on the characteristics of the Almighty. Take three minutes and thirty-eight seconds when you have a chance to just be and enjoy...

...and now go buy it on iTunes. And, listen to it when you need to be reminded of these things. It's written and sang by Laurell Hubick (note: all the links in this article are to a different Laurell as she is no where to be found on myspace). She can sing.

the latter.

2009-11-05T09:55:00.003-05:00

"At the end of ten days the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah" (Jer. 42:7).

Wait.

Be still.

Give him time,
the space.

To speak.

And listen,
closely.

He will
deliver.

Will you hear,
by waiting?

And in your hearing,
obey?

Hear.
Obey.

Maybe the latter is really my
problem.

"So Johanan the son of Kareah and all the commanders of the forces and all the people did not obey the voice of the LORD, to remain in the land of Judah" (Jer. 43:4)

wordless.

2009-11-01T14:51:00.002-05:00

you. are. massive.
birds. seas. rocks. horizon.
so far. so wide.
waves. moon. clouds. blue.
millions. of shades.

people. kids. dogs. walking.
cared for. lonely. loved.
empty. empty. empty. full.
so creative. so vast.

where are you? there. here.
now. always. then.
mountains. hills. green.
rolling. majestic. thank you.
light. lights. noise. sight. smell.
of salt. of sea. of life.
of hope. aheadness. faith.

breathe in. again. lifted.
of burdens. oh. so sweet.
hard. reality. worry. doubt.
handled. held. heard. hurled.
upon. your back. amazed. flat.

wordless.

Wealth in Smallness.

2009-09-17T09:14:00.001-04:00

Sitting across from William yesterday at dinner time was an incredible chance to hear from a seasoned Irish man who has read a lot, thought a lot, and had more wisdom than I could ever hope to attain. Yet, I passed him for the first 4 weeks with mere “hellos” and “how are yas?” One of my students reminded me of the cool and crazy reality that every single person we pass in a given day has an incredibly detailed story – perhaps just waiting to be told. I got to hear a few more pieces of William’s story and I, once again, realized my enjoyment of hearing stories.

William shared a quote he had heard recently that struck me and I wrote it down. We were talking about wealth and the way people in Ireland and the US approach money and prestige. The Frenchman Francoise de La Rochefoucauld said:

“Wealth can be measured by the greatness of what we have or the smallness of what we want.”

William is obviously further down this road of wanting less and I yearn to get to a place where I am truly wealthy because I desire very little that this world has to offer.

As I begin my second month in Ireland, my desire is to be marked by a consistent contentment and satisfaction in the here and now because I know the source of my hope and joy.

Night Hikes, Notre Dame, and Newness

2009-09-05T19:17:00.003-04:00

Today I was asked by one of my students how I felt about change and where I ranked on the risk-taker scale. I sat there right after cooking a brunch for 30 people (yes, I'm learning to cook for 30 people...very quickly learning...and also being humbled) and realized how much I like my job. Part of the reason I am enjoying it so much is that these students are challenging me. I am amazed at the ways these students are engaging in a new situation, a new culture, a new bedroom, new friends, new classes. Newness surrounds them.

And, I realize that newness surrounds me as well. But, their response to a new life is challenging the way I approach this new phase of life for me. I haven't reflected as much as I'd like, but I am realizing that each day I am being challenged in my leadership and in my character. I am being forced to be about others above myself. I am learning to juggle many responsibilities and realize that I will disappoint people. I have made mistakes. I have been humbled by the lack of "productivity" my life might produce.

So many exciting things have happened that I'll only share a couple. I got to go on a night hike last night from Greystones to Brey. This trail follows the coastline of the Irish Sea where you are on the edge of a cliff most of the way. On a night with a full moon it was a breathtaking sight and a great chance to have a blast with 6 students. We sprinted to catch the last train back home and we made a chipper run and we ate the chips along the sea. I just kept saying, "Guys, where are we right now?"

Then, one of the students spent much of the day today helping me get the Notre Dame game online television. I got to watch the whole game and I was quite excited. That was my first chance to watch the Fighting Irish in Ireland.

So, as I reflect on the change and risk question I was asked earlier today, I realize that I am blessed to be able to experience the kind of risk and change this job has afforded. It hasn't felt like that much of a risk because I have felt an extreme sense of peace about where I am at right now. And, I have tried my best to embrace the change of life that is inevitable these days.

In Ireland.

2009-08-26T13:01:00.001-04:00

Friends. Family. Loved ones. Strangers. I am currently a stranger in a foreign land, and while I share a common language with the fine people of this country, I am reminded daily that I’m “not in Kansas anymore.”

There are a myriad of little things to figure out each day. Whether it’s mobile phones, banking, greetings, meal plans, students’ names, locals’ names, etc., my brain is being worked overtime. At the same time, I love the adventure of figuring these things out and being forced to be a learner in everything that I do.

It has been a delight to get to know people. I would say Irish people, but I’ve met people from the UK and South Africa as well. One can never assume where a new acquaintance might be from originally. And, while this heritage doesn’t seem all that important at first, there are deeply held cultural differences which I am learning daily. The Irish are a grand people and I’m thankful for the chance to learn from them and understand their culture more and more each day.

I’ve been in Ireland for a week now. This is my third tip in 3 months but I’ll be staying this time. The Taylor students arrived on Monday and it’s been an exciting whirlwind of activity ever since. While it is exhausting, I am realizing how great a job it truly is and I’m excited for what is t come. I already feel like I just have this huge family and my heart already aches to think I’ll only spend 3 short months with these people.

All that to say, I plan to keep those who are interested in the loop as my life continues on in this transitional phase.

You Must Suffer. by John Piper

2009-08-01T12:31:00.002-04:00

This video is a bit long, but it something to think about. I'd be interested to hear what you think about some of Piper's claims about suffering and pain as a follower of Christ.

Home...alone.

2009-06-24T14:40:00.004-04:00

My family is currently spread across three continents. I am blessed to be holding down the fort (i.e. watering the flowers, mowing the lawn, and chasing the dogs) in Milford, IN. It's 92 degrees and 46% humidity today, yet each member of my family is probably dealing with more of each.

It is humbling to write that my family is all over the world. I realize we are very fortunate to be able travel, see, and experience so much. I understand that many cannot do the same (or maybe have no desire). But, I know that through these experiences we have been changed a lot. We have seen poverty, hunger, filth, hurt, and sin all over the world. Likewise, we have seen beautiful mountains, gorgeous lakes, endearing smiles, hopeful energy, and Christ at work.

We've seen joy. We've seen sadness. All of these things have affected the way we view the world and the way we view people. These experiences have affected the way we view our neighbor.

Hopefully, we will never take for granted these experiences or begin to feel entitled. I know that I am grateful.

If you get a chance today, pray for my family. You can check in to see how things are going in the Dominican Republic and Nepal/Bangladesh at the sites below:

Kory, Alison, Mom, and Dad
Kalyn Marie

May every experience you have to see more of the world alter the way you view your world, your neighbor, your family, your life.

C&U: Eastern University

2009-04-19T22:45:00.000-04:00

Photo courtesy of Vernetta Mickey's Picasa Web Album

Eastern University is located just outside of Philadelphia in St. Davids, PA. Talk about a unique looking campus. I'm sitting* in the "Student Union" which holds the dining commons, coffee shop, post office, campus ministries offices, and several classrooms. This place is an old Mansion donated by a man back in the middle part of the 20th century. Old buildings everywhere. All of them made of stone. Sports fields are tucked in between buildings, ponds, hills, and trees. At this time of year, it's quite beautiful.

Eastern is known for its commitment to social justice. Its students have gone out to make incredible differences in the world in the name of Jesus. Shane Claiborne, author of Irresistible Revolution and Jesus for President, is most notable. Speaker and author Tony Campolo has been a faculty member at Eastern for quite some time and is well known for speaking out on controversial evangelical issues.

All that to say, Eastern is a cool place. If you're on campus, talk to some students. You're likely to see a student walking around barefoot. Ask them why? It was intriguing. Or you might see a student that just got back from downtown Philadelphia. You're likely to see students from all over the world. Eastern is a school with a history that has lent itself to vast influence. They truly push students to move beyond themselves. It's a cool place.**

*I wrote most of this like 6 months ago and am actually sitting Payne's.
**I'm done with my thesis and am therefore going to, occasionally, write some stuff here.

The College Series

2008-11-08T13:28:00.002-05:00

I've been sitting on my haunches trying to determine if I wanted to write anything on here related to what I've been thinking. Truth is, my mind has been on overdrive the past month or so. The problem is that I've had little time to parse through the meanderings of my brain which, unfortunately, can leave me numb at times.

So, for now, I decided to start a series about all the colleges and universities that I've visited (or want to visit). I am in the latter half of a masters program in higher education and student development at Taylor University. As I've done some recruiting for our program, I've realized how few people realize what this type of degree prepares one for. Well, my pad answer for why I do it is: "I just wanted the opportunity to invest in the lives of young people who are at a key crossroads in life."

The truth is that I just like college campuses. I just never want to leave them. (Slight exageration). But, they are unique places. They are alive with energy, promise, hope, and spirit. That's the positive side. They are also alive with lots of problems. Who ever thought of the experiment that would throw thousands of 18-22 year olds into a medium sized city, with minimal rules, and less rule enforcement to fend for themselves. If you think about it long enough, it's crazy!

But, it's also the reality. It's my desire to step alongside students who are asking questions of meaning, identity, purpose, future, justice, forgiveness, hope, reconciliation, truth, etc.

This series, however, will simply highlight certain institutions and some things I've discovered while I've been there.

prayer + distraction

2008-09-20T11:25:00.001-04:00

"When he was on the faculty at Yale, Henri Nouwen converted a walk-in clothes closet into a prayer closet. 'The simple fact that I'm in the closet means I'm praying,' he said. 'I might have a thousand things to think about while I'm in there, but the fact that I'm sitting in the this physical place means I'm praying. I force myself to stay there for fifteen minutes. I do my best to center my mind and clear it of distracting thoughts and get down to prayer, but if after fifteen minutes I haven't been entirely successful, I say, "Lord this was my prayer, even all this confusion. Now I'm going back to the world" ' ". (Yancey, 2007, Prayer)

I love this quote from Nouwen because I think it hits home with each of us, at least those of us who struggle, at times, with prayer. Do we give God space to speak? Do we step into a quiet place (in heart, mind, and location) in order to be with God? These are good questions, but they don't necessarily mean "results" (whatever results in prayer means).

5 year old Eduardo can teach us a lot about prayer. He just did it. Whenever and wherever he was.

The best part about Nouwen's explanation of his prayer time is that he offers up his confusion as prayer.

Sometimes I hear people saying that their thoughts in prayer seem to easily wander. They say that distraction in prayer runs wild. While I think there is something to say for being focused and setting our mind on Christ while praying, I also think there is something to say for letting your mind and thoughts wander. This may well be where God is taking you (obviously, there are holes in the argument if your thoughts are taking you to crazy places).

But, why not offer these "thoughts" as prayers. Learn to pray through your thoughts. Learn to let the "mess in your mind" be a sacrifice to God.

Don't let distraction lure you away from the chance to surrender that distraction as a prayer.

Are you confused yet? Then pray...confused.

are they back?

2008-09-16T20:46:00.001-04:00

Only time will tell, but this highlight excites me about the possibility of things to come. Oh, what a little music and solid video editing can do.

Chicago (3): Life that is truly life & 1 Timothy 6:17-19

2008-09-14T22:06:00.000-04:00

A house we helped rennovate, to be used to raise funds for a local Christian school.

In my previous Chicago posts, I've been reminded that God desires to respond to the needs in our world, but he has decided to respond through his people (his sovereignty plus our frailty make that seem kind of crazy, but it's true). That excites me...and makes me feel a bit overwhelmed at times.

So, what is one way that we are to respond? A couple simple words found in 1 Timothy challenge our motives and thoughts as we consider this question.

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

Some questions stemming from this passage...

Who are the rich in this present world?
Are we putting any of our hope in wealth?
Do we believe God provides us with everything for our enjoyment?
Are we truly generous and willing to share? Everything?
Are we taking hold of the life that is truly life? Do we believe that life is as good as promised?

You see, I was convinced after spending time in this passage in Chicago, that 1 Timothy 6:17 is speaking directly to us. We quickly say that can't be us...but what does it mean to be wealthy? A thought...being broke does not equal being poor. I am not saying that the current financial struggles of so many in America are not serious issues, but the reality is that many of us still have relative wealth (maybe easy for me to say, I know).

A challenge to our view of wealth. Here are some things that make me wealthy, that may be a bit contrary to our normal view of wealth:

Education
Health
Options
Stability
Sense of hope
Past experience
Friends
English
Literacy
Network
Spiritual Life

I have these things...even if I lose all my money. Specifically, my faith in Jesus provides a hope and life that so many don't have. But, the most interesting one to me was the network that I have (and the network that many of you have). Think about the people you know. The doctors. The teachers. The businessmen. The construction workers. The financial advisers. If you have a question about how to get something accomplished (i.e. how to do taxes), you probably have someone you can ask.

My point: Our network, in a serious sense, makes us wealthy. The exciting thing relating to the command in the passage in 1 Timothy to be "generous and willing to share" is that we can share these other aspects of our wealth. We can share our NETWORK. We can creatively connect those who have less wealth with people in our network who can help them. If we can't help them, we probably know someone who can. Our network is just one example. Think about how you can give away these other things in your life. We were created with spiritual gifts...for the good of others (1 Corinthians 12). This applies to EVERYTHING we have. How can you share your gift of English with someone else?

Bottom line: Around 40% of the world lives on $2 or less per day. The fact remains that we have to be out interacting with the world (everyone in the world) to have chances to make these connections. We have to connect in relationship with people who are different from us.

How can I embrace the life that is truly life by sharing generously ALL that the Lord has blessed me with? How does being wealthy affect my spiritual life? Questions I'm pondering. What are your thoughts?

Many of these thoughts come straight from Joel Hamernick with my interpretation.

To Gram: A Tribute

2008-09-10T20:36:00.006-04:00

While my Great Grandmother may never read this, I must pay her tribute on this, my blog. My voice to masses. About 2 weeks ago my family trekked over to Grabill, IN, home of the Leo Lions as well as several of my dear family and friends.

Our purpose was clear and simple: Hang out with the coolest 93 year old woman on the planet!

Gram Wisner, or "Gram" as we like to call her, has something special about her that just makes you want to sit down and shoot the breeze. I've found myself wondering where the time went as I sat in her sun porch watching the birds and talking about life for several hours. Gram was born in 1905 (or thereabouts). Despite the passing of many years, Gram has a unique ability to relate to people where they are. She is sincerely interested in what I'm doing. She genuinely cares. Often, she'll just laugh at all the travels we're doing or the new gadgets we use. But, she has the ability to remember and care about you. She wants to know what you've been up to, and she's usually just filling in the gaps of things she has remembered so vividly.
So, here are my 10 favorite things about Gram:

She loves to laugh.
She loves sports.
She's gorgeous.
She dresses to kill.
She loves head rubs (so do I!)
She's got a great, witty sense of humor.
She loves food.
She loves her family.
She's lived well through adversity
She loves God.

You know those people in your life that you might often take for granted. Sometimes, I feel like I do that to Gram. I don't want to. I can't help but think back to my heritage and realize that she's a big part (directly and indirectly) of shaping me to be the person I am.

Here come the Irish...

2008-09-06T20:05:00.007-04:00

It's that time again. And, today, I sat on my own couch and watched the Irish trudge their way to an ugly win. Now, I'm not a guy who's gonna sit here and overanalyze the, for the most part, ugliness that we saw today, but I am going to answer the question my roommate (Ben) asked me today.

Kyle, why do you love Notre Dame football so much?

I hate to say that I love Notre Dame football but the sad reality is that I really really like this program. Some of my earliest childhood memories consist of sunny afternoons with my dad, brother, or other buddies on one of the most beautiful campuses in the world. The University of Notre Dame is truly a unique place. Many will say this, but I've felt it and I love it. The SEC may boast the rowdiest fans or the craziest tailgate parties, but nothing compares to the tradition experienced at Notre Dame. I know, they are sort of the Yankees of college football, and I certainly don't care to convince you, or anyone else, to like this team, but they have this reputation for a reason.
Great coaches. Great players. Great movie(s). They graduate players. They paint diagonal lines in the endzone. They wear the same gold pants and helmets every year. No names on the jerseys. Well spoken kids. Many years of all of this. I live an hour from South Bend and I can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday.

Granted, sometimes this program represents a lack of priorities for a university. Or they handle a situation immorally. Or its fans are a little overconceited. This, I understand.

But, I still like this team a lot. I just do. You probably won't convince me otherwise.

Enjoy the Fall, whomever you like or don't like.

"Nothing matters...

2008-09-05T11:53:00.000-04:00

...in this life accept for relationships. And a relationship Jesus Christ is the most important of them all."

This was something that Will Franklin Chapman shared at his sister's funeral. He was the one who was driving the car that tragically killed his little sister. In the middle of this intensely painful time, this was his conclusion about life. Nothing too deep. But actually, it might be the most central reality of all.

I know that I have to be reminded of this daily. As I feverishly work toward a Masters degree, I must remember what it's about. As I wake up in the morning with a list of tasks to accomplish, I must remember what those tasks need to be about. As I sit here typing on a computer, I must remember that relationships, most notably with Jesus, is what this life is all about. How sad we would be if we ventured through life and looked back only to say, "I spent way too much time worrying about stuff to do and things to accomplish."

Relationships. This is where we must center our lives. Can we lose focus in relationships? Yes. Can we be involved in unhealthy relationships? Yes. Can we mess up in relationships? Yes. But still, it is in these that true life can be had.

Portions of the memorial service can be viewed here. Also, a friend showed me this sweet site about adoption called Shaohannah's Hope. It's well worth checking out. I believe adoption has to be something that Christians are aware of and potentially involved with in some way or another. A good way to start is to understand more about the process.

Maria Chapman's Family Speaks Out

2008-09-03T11:38:00.004-04:00

I just finished watching the first interview since Maria Chapman's tragic death by Good Morning America's Robin Roberts since. An album by Steven Curtis Chapman was the first I ever owned (a cassette tape), and while you may not love his musical style, he has lived a life boldly, honestly, and courageously for Jesus Christ in front of an audience of thousands. Already having three children of their own, he and his wife have adopted 3 Chinese girls, and they are champions for adoption all around the world. It is so cool to see the compassion and love they have for their children. Maria was a beautiful girl and her story just hit me harder than most tragedies.

Check out the interview here. It's worth 10 minutes. Watch for the unique perspective, albeit honest, that these people possess.

Also, his most recent hit song, "Cinderella", was written for his 3 adopted daughters and it means something wholly different since his youngest died.

"We grieve with hope."
"That's what faith is. It's living with the questions."

6 cousins. 2 tents. lots of jokes.

2008-08-19T02:05:00.006-04:00

Got back Saturday in the early AM from Colorado. Specifically, RMNP (Rocky Mountain National Park) right near Estes Park, CO. This is probably my family's most visited travel location and it holds many dear memories.

This time we went parent-less and although we had to be a bit more responsible, it was simply incredible. Three sets of brothers together entailed many laughable moments. Highlights...

...bathing every afternoon in the mountain stream.
...eating like kings (we chowed and we ate like dudes should eat).
...sleeping in my $20 Swiss Army tent in the low temp. high altitude nights
...conquering Long's Peak (14,259 ft.) for the 2nd time in as many tries (left at 1:30 am to catch the trail)
...laughing around the fire
...Wally and Karen, our neighbors who gave us a 6x6, an axe, and a saw for firewood
...Mitchell farting and then asking the neighbors if they heard it
...hiking, taking pictures, and enjoying that which defines beauty...COLORADO

It's cool when a bunch of 2nd cousins hang out for a week. I realize this is rare, and I certainly appreciated it. Great guys, great times.

SALT 2008

2008-08-08T22:52:00.007-04:00

I just got back from West Virginia. For the past 3 years, I've spent the first week of August with around 30 Bethel College athletes learning and growing in the area of Spiritual Leadership. The retreat is called SALT and was started by my dad 4 years ago. I spent the summer of 2006 interning for my dad at Bethel helping to plan for this retreat, so it has become very important to me. I actually posted about last year's retreat here.

I love this week. I love the students that I get to experience life with. This year, I got to serve alongside my entire family which was definitely a highlight. I got to see God use my dad as the athletic director at Bethel in a unique way in challenging these talented athletes to pursue Christ above all else.

Again, the vulnerability, honesty, and brokenness was so visible. There is something very unique about working with college athletes. First of all, any games that take place are all out wars. Secondly, there are unique walls and facades that often build up in the lives of athletes. These were moved and torn down this week. Third, it is so cool to watch a bunch of people who do not know each other well at all unite together and bond so strongly in 6 days. Fourth, my mom cooks so we eat like kings.

My experience could be summed up by the following sentence:

SALT 2008 encouraged me in ministry with college students (athletes in particular), with my family (so cool to do this together), and to my heart (a lot of things going on but I was encouraged).

This is something that I would love to see duplicated at Taylor and other Christian university athletic departments. We'll see if I'll ever have that opportunity. This is not just another retreat. It is a time where God has changed lives. I hope to share some of those stories later.

Restoration's Prequal: Brokenness

2008-08-02T12:15:00.001-04:00

Like anything, there is no exact pattern or science to the way God works in our lives. But, the reality is that brokenness often precedes restoration. Like I said in this previous post, God desires to restore. He sent Jesus to this earth to restore us, as broken people, to himself. Jesus was a restorer in everything that he did.

Can we be restored before we are broken? Until we have given up control? Until our shell has been exposed? Maybe. But, I'm not so sure that God can restore until we allow ourselves to be broken or he breaks us nonetheless.

I've been witness to this brokenness more than normal recently. I was once told that the scariest request one could ever make of God is to be humbled and broken.

I saw two high school students who have experienced extreme brokenness over the past few weeks.

I asked one of them if I could share a bit. Here's a bit of the story:

After several conversations he came to me at a place of anger and brokenness with tears already starting. I could sense the Spirit working but it seemed like it was going to be long process. There was so much going on inside. After just listening for a while, I watched him fall to his knees and cry out to God from his innermost being to take this burden and hurt and pain and frustration and filth from him. The next hour was like watching a literal battle between a man and God and it was incredibly surreal to witness. It ended that night at the beginning of freedom. A long process ahead was acknowledged, but healing, restoration had started. I can honestly say that I've never seen someone so broken and in such a battle with the Almighty God, but it was healthy and good and God was obviously present through the Holy Spirit.

Scripture on brokenness:

Ps. 34:8
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Ps. 51:17
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart,
O God, you will not despise.

Ps. 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.

Question:

What do you think about brokenness? Are my thoughts anywhere right here? Is brokenness something we should seek?

p.s. I've been told I'm always serious on my blog. Sorry, this one is too. I'll try to be funnier. I'm truly a happy person. I guess this is just my outlet for thoughts like these.

photo © Darren Hester for openphoto.net CC:Attribution-NonCommercial

Cops and Intersections

2008-07-28T08:00:00.005-04:00

Rolling through stop signs. One of my weaknesses. I have a $150 ticket to prove it.

Til today. I was flying up to a stop sign that I've driven past for 8 straight years. As I was about to zoom by the annoyingly pointless red octagon, I glanced up from my texting (horrible idea, I know. don't do it!) to see the not yet lit cherries and berries coming at me. I slammed on my brakes only to come to a halting stop, just in time.

Great story huh? I know, but there's a point.

How easy it is to do something I shouldn't be doing...for years...until the wake up call comes.

I honestly didn't even think about driving past that stop sign completely ignoring it. I basically forgot it was there. It became a habit to do something I shouldn't really be doing, and I didn't even realize it.

Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.
2 Corinthians 13:5

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24.

Those are the verses of which this whole story reminded me.

Am I examining my life? Have I stopped long enough to test myself?

Am I allowing God to search me?

Am I allowing others to speak into my life...hard things?

Am I willing to be humbled and admit that I've been wrong for all these years...even if I had no idea?

people are different.

2008-07-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

"People generally prefer to be with people like themselves." (from Divided by Faith)

Why?

I often ask this question in my mind. Sometimes unfortunately, I ask this question out loud (I'm realizing my questioning and playing devil's advocate can be annoying).

My "why's" are often left unanswered but they usually result in a search and more thinking and more questions.

I think the simple answer to the questioning of this statement is:
We like ourselves. Usually.

We think that the way we do things is probably the best way of doing things. It is, after all, the way we've chosen...to do things. So, we want to be around people who have chosen the "best way of doing things" just like we have.

Obviously, I'm inciting a problem here. Or is there? Is it really all that bad that we like to associate with people like ourselves? This can be argued sociologically from both sides fairly strongly.

Without getting too deep into that discussion (mostly because I don't understand it that well), I would argue that we are missing out when we act completely on our "inherent" desire to be with people just like us...or as close to that as we can find (we're all pretty uniquely weird, ya know?).

But, think about this (I know I need to): We are all different. Therefore, what "way of doing things" is really the best? I mean, we all do things at least a little differently. So, maybe I could be enriched by associating with people that do things differently. The fear (that often paralyzes us) is that we may actually start to think that the "other" person's way is better and that could make us change our mind about everything we've held so tightly for so long (If we let go that easily, then maybe we weren't holding it as tightly as we thought). This leaves exploration of another's culture, beliefs, faith, and preferences as an often taboo pursuit.

So, where am I really going with this? Not so sure, except I can say that I think it is okay to hold values closely and firmly. I even think that is a very good thing. But, I believe we are beings who don't have everything exactly right and we would be better served (as people and as Christians) if we would interact (and maybe even listen) to people who are "different" than us. You don't have to sell the farm and move to the other side of the world on an issue. You may often keep the very same belief on a matter, but your perspective has been widened.

It's not natural for us to associate with the "other" (I know it's not for me). But, I'm trying to explore the good in doing just that.

my friend, ben taylor. i'm proud.

2008-07-22T00:45:00.003-04:00

I just found this video on YouTube. Can I just say that I live with him? Some of the comments on this video are pretty funny. Just to clarify: Ben Taylor (read his blog here)* is not the son of the James Taylor. He is actually the son of Bob and Karen Taylor and they are awesome.

*This is just a test to see if Ben ever reads my blog**.
**He will not be overly happy that I posted this***.
***The footnotes are inspired by Ben who was inspired by Danger Conn.

Book Review: The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan

2008-07-21T17:10:00.002-04:00

I like to read. Like many people, I have more books than I have time to read, I wish I were a faster reader, and sometimes reading puts me to sleep. I've read a lot of good books, but it's always exciting to come across one of those books that is...well, amazing.

The Rest of God: Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath is one of those amazing books, at least it was for the place I found myself while reading it.

I'm bad at resting. Dare I say that in America, we suck at resting. I've often found it odd that God created the earth in 6 "days" and then rested for a day. And why did the religious people in the Bible take the observation of the Sabbath so seriously? There's something to this sabbath idea that we're missing out on. When people gave Jesus a hard time for some of his actions on the Sabbath, I'm sure it's because they didn't know what God intended for the Sabbath. Because, for some reason, God intended us to take an occasional stoppage from the normal routine.

We hardly talk about it anymore. Our culture doesn't encourage taking time off as our days and weeks fill with all sorts of activities...and there's always something else we could be doing.

But are we missing out? Is it possible that God intended rest because it is what is best for us? Because it helps us better bring glory to him? Is it dangerous that something so important over the years has become largely non-existant?

Buchanan explores this idea in such a fresh way. This book has so many refreshing ideas and maybe even mandates that I had been missing. I cannot begin to recommend this book enough to anyone who senses unrest in their lives. For someone who has felt the stresses of life weighing them down (probably all of us) or who's first response to a friend's greeting has been: "I'm just really busy right now" this book is for you. Buchanan does not just tell everyone to take a nap on Sunday; he explores the idea of living with the sabbath mindset that God intends for his children.

Okay, time out...stop wasting time reading my blog (okay, maybe not a complete waste, especially if I get you to read this book) and take some time to read this book.

Slow down. Relax. Meditate on the words.

Allow yourself to be shaped by the important, yet often overlooked message of this book. Honestly, it might drastically affect the way you approach life...in a great way.

seek.

2008-07-17T00:11:00.004-04:00

Relentless.

Powerful.
Terrifying.
Holy.
Alive.

These are words that come to mind as I think about the God I observed, experienced, and saw in the 5 days I just experienced. I returned last night from more time with high school students on the shores of Lake Erie near Sandusky, OH. I went as a counselor and I had great opportunities to invest in students, but I gained so much from this time. So, what did we do, you ask?

worship.
We flat out glorified the Almighty God. I don't know that I've ever been a part of more raw, vulnerable, crazy, undignified, sincere praise to our God through singing, prayer, and scripture. These kids allowed Christ to transform their hearts in worship as they surrendered all.

fellowship.
Our worship was also seen in the genuine fellowship with each other. I heard someone say that one of the best ways to get to know God is through getting to know his people. He created us in his image after all. We ate together, laughed together, prayed together (lots of prayer - kind of like the early church seemed to do it), sang together, talked together, etc.

fun.
I had more fun than a person should be allowed. Cedar Point has never seen a group of 170 people have so much uninhibited FUN. we chanted, played loud games, froze (see later post), sang, yelled, danced. Wow. Too much.

broke.
We let the God we often try to hide from BREAK US. We were broken. We were humbled. We admitted the things that we are scared to bring into the light to each other and to God. And when we came out of hiding we didn't even blow up (see this video for context).

sought.
We examined what it meant to seek God. Our inspiration was Jeremiah 29:13:

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

What does it really mean to seek God? With all your heart?
What would a true seeker of God look like?
What would a church seeking after God with all of its heart look like?

I got to watch well over a hundred high school students ask these questions...and commit to seeking. They counted the costs and committed to seeking. This was not your normal camp where high schoolers come together and have an emotional and maybe spiritual high and go home slightly changed.

These kids were changed...and so was I.

So, I'm curious. What do you think a true seeker of Christ, one seeking with all of their heart, would look like? What would be some defining characteristics or words you would use to describe them? I'd love your thoughts.

fasting? really?

2008-07-08T12:50:00.003-04:00

I was perusing a magazine today and noticed that it suggested fasting as a solid weight loss mechanism that included several other health benefits. What are the "rules" you ask?

a 36 hour fast, once a week
don't fast unless you're in good shape and eat right already
start off easy
bookend the fast with the right meals
pace yourself (how can i pace something I'm NOT doing)
mitochondria become more efficient (this is sweet)

Other benefits?

you'll enjoy the food you eat even more
you may also protect yourself against heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and stroke

I might be crazy but this article reminded me about something that I have done some thinking about. It was a good reminder to me that Jesus thought it a good idea that we fast. In Matthew 6, Jesus says, "When you fast...don't yadayadayada. But when you fast, do yadayadayada." For some reason, Jesus thought we would just do it, and I have some ideas why it might be of value (purely my ideas):

It reminds us of our reliance on things beyond ourselves.
It helps us to focus and center ourselves on things beyond feeding our desires.
It can open up time to devote in worship of the Creator.
It can serve to provide a healthy view of the thing we are fasting from.
It can add discipline to our lives.
It can maybe even be healthy when done correctly (this is purely a physical gain, is that okay?)
It can be a sacrifice in order to focus more clearly on God's leading.

These may be way wrong. I encourage you to challenge them. These are just thoughts I quickly typed. I'm not telling you that you should go fast today, especially if you know it would be harmful to your body.

But, why don't we talk about it or do it like Jesus talked about it or did it? Has the pendulum swung so far away from this practice that we no longer consider it important? Is it even important?

All I know is that it took a random health magazine to remind me once again that fasting has value. Maybe Jesus wasn't joking around when he talked about it.

Restoration: Do you want it?

2008-06-25T10:46:00.004-04:00

I'm sitting here working on a message for high school students about RESTORATION. I realize every time I sit down to think about what and how I'm going to share the Word of God with others that it is such a responsibility as well as an opportunity to dig in deeply to spend time getting to know God.

I love that and I've become to welcome that in my life even though it sometimes takes time to really sit down and get started.

Well, I started this post and the message has since come and gone. It felt like a jumbled mess at the time, but I believe the Holy Spirit used it powerfully in students' lives.

I shared about the reality that we are all screwed up and we all carry hurts, burdens, frustrations, pain, guilt, restlessness, or problems of some sort. We have to admit this...or we might be in denial.

I then shared about the ministry of restoration that Jesus came to show us here on earth. I also shared from Psalms 23 about God as restorer. Bottom line: God wants to restore us. While this may not be fully possible until Christ's return, we can participate in that now. We can allow God to restore us AND we can help to bring restoration to others. I believe this wholeheartedly.

An interesting point that I challenged the students with is the question that Jesus asks the crippled man at the well in John 5:6.

Do you want to get well?

Are you kidding me? This guy's been there 38 years, begging, hurting, lying there. Why wouldn't he want to get well? Jesus must have known something we don't readily admit. Maybe the fact that we learn to live with our pain sometimes. We might even bury it. It can become a crutch. Do we even want it to leave, knowing what that process might actually look like?

I asked them if they even wanted to get well. It is then, I believe, that Jesus can really restore us. Are you examining your life and honestly allowing God to restore areas that you have not acknowledged are hurting you and wearing you down? I am learning more about what it means to honestly evaluate my need for a powerful Savior.

My questions for you: Do you want to be restored? Where do you need restored? Are you letting the Restorer restore you?

This video is of a friend that is being restored, although the process will be long. His honesty and vulnerability are contagious and unbelievable at the same time. It's worth sharing and thinking about in your response to the inevitable pain and suffering you are facing or will soon face.

Chicago (2): Micah 6:8 - Poverty and Our Response

2008-06-22T10:00:00.000-04:00

"There will always be poor people in the land." Deuteronomy 15:11a

I have on occasion heard this verse mentioned as a reality I should consider before I get too gung-ho about attempting to solve the world's poverty crisis. And, you know what, I believe this verse to be true to an extent, but I do not believe it to be an excuse to turn a blind eye. In fact, a quick glance at the words on either side of this sentence talk about the importance of giving generously (kind of funny how we purport verses to fit our leanings at times...I'm sure I'm guilty of it). I also cannot reconcile the reality that Jesus talks consistently about the poor among us.

Yet, I am still left with an overwhelming feeling. Where do I even begin?

There are three main roots of poverty:

Tragedy
Oppression/Injustice
Consequences of Sin

And again, the church has the responses to poverty. Micah 6:8 provides the framework.
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Key phrases:

Act Justly
Love Mercy
Walk Humbly

What do people who have experienced tragedy need? They need mercy. They need the tenderhearted to come around them and care for their emotional needs as well as their physical needs. They need unselfish, unconditional compassion poured out on them and their family in their time of need. We cannot provide genuine compassion for a lot of people for an extended period of time...but by the grace of God working powerfully through us, his people. We can give mercy.

What can be given to a person who has experienced oppression and injustice whether intentionally or not? They need justice. They need someone who will speak on their behalf when they are unable to speak. They need someone to stand up and go against the systems or structures which perpetuate these injustices. They ultimately need the giver of justice (Psalm 9:16). Does God not pour out justice through his people? We can give justice.

What does someone entrenched in the consequences of their sin need? They need humility. And they need to see humility modeled. They need humble servants of Christ to walk beside them, to bend down and sincerely walk with them. They need modeled a humble walk with Christ. It is only through Christ that true redemption can take place (Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14). With Christ, we can model humility.

Too simplistic? Maybe. Is their truth here? I think so. How can we better respond to the realities around us?

I'd love to hear your thoughts, critiques, questions, and clarifications of this model.

Taylor CRAM 2008

2008-06-16T17:07:00.003-04:00

I'm working the front desk of Swallow Robin Hall at Taylor University. We are on day three of CRAM (a 3 1/2 week summer honors program for juniors and seniors in high school). It has been a highly exciting/exhausting time.

Oh, to be a high schooler again. These kids are great. I have seriously grown to love them already (all 36 of them). The energy, questions, pursuits, fears, dreams, hurts, and intellect are all very real in this group and I have enjoyed connecting with them.

We played some icebreaker games on Saturday and I absolutely love those times. I've learned that almost anyone will loosen up if you bring some ridiculous energy to a completely goofy game, even if they hate it. My favorite is boppity, bop, bop, bop (Ask me if you don't know!). When stepping into a new situation in which we don't know many people, it is human nature to be a bit uncomfortable and feel out of place. I often take it as my responsibility to get people interacting. Sometimes this is good and sometimes it can be very obnoxious, I'm sure. I've seen some pretty great "evil stares" from some of these high schoolers already.

I have high hopes for the conversations and times we will have together over the next 3 weeks. These are sharp kids. I talk Thursday about knowing about God versus really knowing God in such a way that it radically changes the way you live. I see these kids being at a place where this might be just right!

If you can, pray for these kids, for a moldable heart and mind. Pray for our staff, for wisdom and honesty and energy to love these kids well.

I'm enjoying the amazing responsibility to love these kids and I hope I can selflessly serve them for 3 more weeks.

Chicago (1): God's Heart for the Poor & Psalm 113

2008-06-09T14:29:00.005-04:00

Does God even care?

I look around, and as I've mentioned before, I see hardship, toil, poverty, sadness, sickness, death, war, famine, and on and on. Granted, I see a lot of beauty as well, but when I notice these "tough" issues it is easy to ask God:

Do you really see this? Doesn't it bother you? Why don't you fix it?

Well, I am now completely aware of at least one amazing truth:

God LOVES the POOR. Praise Him.

When we see these tremendous needs facing us square in the eye, our first tendency is to think, "There is no way I can meet that need." Because we do not know what to do with the need, we often walk away from it...overwhelmed.

God doesn't do this.

Psalm 113:4-9
The LORD is exalted over all the nations,
his glory above the heavens.
Who is like the LORD our God,
the One who sits enthroned on high,
who stoops down to look
on the heavens and the earth?
He raises the poor from the dust
and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
he seats them with princes,
with the princes of their people.
He settles the barren woman in her home
as a happy mother of children.
Praise the LORD.
God is exalted above everything, and he chooses to stoop down to look at us and our needs.
First, he SEES the poor and needy. He is aware of these needs as he comes down to our level.
Second, he RESPONDS by raising them from the dust and the ash heap. He picks them up.
Third, he DIGNIFIES by seating them with princes. He demolishes the hierarchies we set up on earth. And, the cool part about this is that we were dignified at the point of our creation because we were created in the image of God. However, we sometimes have to be reminded of this.

He sees. He responds. He dignifies.

Does he really do this? This sounds nice, but is it happening? I don't always see it.

The problem and answer: He most certainly does it...through the church. He has given us this task. Will we take it? We often blame God for not responding, but are we, as his people, his "hands and feet", responding?

God saves us, through Jesus, by using other people. Crazy? Yes. But, it's true. Isn't it? If you follow Jesus, how were you lead into that relationship? Obviously, God, in his sovereignty, rescued you, but did people play a role? My guess is yes. I pray that my heart would become more like God's.

Questions:
So, if God has a heart for the poor, how should our heart look in regards to the poor?
Are you overwhelmed by the needs of the poor? How does this feel?
What are some ways we can respond as the church? I know people are responding. Are we responding how God would have us respond?

This stuff is courtesy of Joel Hamernick.

Chicago...Lessons Learned.

2008-06-09T00:38:00.001-04:00

I just can't stop thinking about Chicago. Our simple Spring Break trip a few weeks ago has ballooned into more than I ever could have imagined.

And, I'm so proud of our students. I've seen them take what they experienced in a short week's time and run with it. Some went back for a unique immersion experience with Emmaus Ministries. Others put together a presentation on what we learned for other Taylor students. Many slept outside during Social Justice Week at Taylor as an act of solidarity. A group of students began going through a curriculum on poverty and God's heart for the poor and oppressed. Still others went and prepared a meal for some homeless people in our community and then sat down and ate with them. The list could go on...

In order to help me continue to process and remember what we learned, I've decided to write about lessons we learned while in Chicago with Sunshine Gospel Ministries. Most of this comes straight from the teachings of Joel Hamernick. Much of the lessons apply to life wherever we are and I am excited to share those on this blog. This new blog series will be called "Chicago".

Passion World Tour

2008-05-25T15:10:00.003-04:00

I don't know if I could describe something more incredibly in line with some of my greatest hopes and dreams.

College and University Students.
Across the world.
In the cities.
Proclaiming Jesus.

PASSION is on a world tour and it is absolutely amazing. Check it out at here.
They've been to Kyev (Kiev, Ukraine), Stockholm (Sweden), and are in Sa0 Paulo (Brazil) as I type this. They have 14 more cities to go. I wish I was on this tour with them. I really like PASSION's mission in general. Spearheaded by Louis Giglio, here is a quote I found on their website that speaks volumes about what they are doing:

We have a desire to see university and college students encounter Jesus in a way that causes them to naturally engage the world around them with the story of His rescue and redemption (http://www.268generation.com/2.0/splash2.htm).

They've been in the US for 8+ years. Now, they are taking it across the globe. So sweet.

Episco-what.

2008-05-22T13:12:00.006-04:00

Episcopalians. Lots of them. And me, a crazy evangelical, sitting amongst them all in the Diocese of Los Angeles. For three days we learned about reconciliation. And I came away changed (I tend to like change although I do not tend to open my arms wide for it).

We learned and were trained in a process of reconciliation. We practiced this process over a much debated topic of the conflict in the Middle East, most specifically between Israel and Palestine. There are 8 principles which we worked through:

Pluralism
Inclusion
Peacemaking
Social Justice
Forgiveness
Healing Collective Wounds
Sovereignty
Atonement

The interesting part of this conference is that the focus was on reconciliation between Abrahamic "cousins" (Jews, Muslims, and Christians). The idea being that because we all share the important value of submission to God, the God of Abraham, we should be able to find peace with one another.

The reality is that this is probably the most complex problem/relationship/scenario/struggle in the history of man. Yet, it was so encouraging to be in a group that simply was not giving up. I had several moments where I just said, "This is not worth it," but our group continued to work through the long process.

What I learned or was reminded:

Reconciliation is a long, exhausting process that takes perseverance and extreme commitment through difficult times. No matter what the scenario, it takes work.
Listen first. Listen second. Consider talking third. A lesson I have been trying to work hard on recently.
Say you're sorry. Ask for forgiveness, Forgive freely. We don't take blame easily. I need to humble myself easily and say sorry more often.
I may well be (I would argue I am) part of groups of people that have inflicted on harm on other groups of people. Whether it be the faith group I am part of, the gender, the ethnicity, the race, or another, I have intentionally or unintentionally contributed to someone else's harm (whether legitimate or not). For this, I must be willing to apologize and work toward reconciliation.
My takeaway: True reconciliation must be rooted in love which is found purely in Jesus Christ.

Episcopalians taught me a lot this week. For this I am thankful.

"It's a white man's system"

2008-05-12T23:26:00.003-04:00

These five words jumped out at me as I spent 5 hours last Saturday with my uncle who is in prison. I know he reads this blog, and I contemplated even writing this, but I opted to do it because of what he is teaching me through this process as well as the testimony of Jesus Christ that he is representing.

We drove 5 hours to the Federal Prison, went through "inspections" and then got to hug our uncle and just talk. He had a twinkle in his eye that I have not witnessed in months. He is living life, in a tough place, in a completely different culture, but he is moving forward as positively as he can.

He shared so many stories, but he spent a lot of time talking about the injustice of the Justice System. He told the stories of guys who had 10 years for possession of "meth", when these guys could potentially be rehabilitated in 6 months. Or guys who made one mistake and are now spending 20 years. Their families have been torn to shreds. There is just not a lot of rehab taking place as these "criminals" are getting sent out into the world, only to return at an alarming rate.

About the justice system, my uncle told us that "it's a white man's system". He already has observed the reality that our system is geared toward whites; this coming from a white man who has experienced a bit of this injustice. More to think about from more of an inside perspective. Keep praying for my uncle. That he would stay strong and make a positive influence on those who walks with each day.

"security lulls me to sleep, but action excites me"

2008-05-07T01:29:00.002-04:00

A good friend of mine said this to me tonight.

Begs me to ask the tough questions in my own life:

Where am I secure? More specifically, where am I secure in reliance upon myself and the things around me? Still more, where have I been lulled into a distracted ignorance of the power of God?

Action for the sake of action isn't always the right thing. But action, the kind where you step out into a place where only God can make it happen (MIH), that's where I want to be.

Something I'm thinking about. Need to keep thinking and start doing.

laughter.

2008-05-06T16:46:00.003-04:00

I really don't have much to say, except that I love laughter. Last night, my roommates had me laughing until sparkly little droplets of a watery substance began to emerge. I am thankful for laughter. I'm tired and exhausted, which may make laughter come easier.

I've started about six posts. Haven't been able to "finish" these days. I have many thoughts, little articulation, and less time to write them out. They will be coming.

One of my favorites...bittersweetness

2008-04-17T00:34:00.003-04:00

"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

...you will have trouble.

You...

...WILL...

...have...

...TROUBLE!

I haven't necessarily had a lot of "trouble". I've had some. I think I'll have more.

How can I remember no matter what, even in the middle of the trouble...

...that Jesus said he overcame the world...ALREADY?!?!

Not sure, but I'm trying. I think it's important and I'm so grateful for the hope and promise Jesus provides.

Praying for those experiencing more "trouble" than me tonight.

From the unlikeliest of places...

2008-04-14T11:47:00.004-04:00

Today in chapel Kelly Monroe Kullberg showed us a video clip that absolutely shocked me. First off, Kelly is amazing. She is the founder of the Veritas Forum which facilitates presentations at Universities across the country. They provide a place for truth to be discussed on college campuses. Difficult questions are asked and the person of Jesus Christ, in all his brilliance, is discussed as the ultimate Truth. The results have been outstanding. Check out the links.

Now, this video sent chills down my spine as I watched. Coming from a place you would never expect are people crying out to God. They may or may not be cognizant of what they are singing but it is an awesome look ahead to the day when we will all cry out to Him and it's a beautiful thing...

Air Time #6

2008-04-13T23:59:00.000-04:00

I thought it was about time for another Air Time photo as my thoughts have been going a thousand different directions lately so pictures are always good, right? This was taken near Newport Beach in California this January. I was really high (not). But it was sweet day alone.

discuss this.

2008-04-09T01:20:00.005-04:00

For anyone that reads this, you have may have begun to see a theme. I am realizing that we live life in cycles and themes really begin to emerge for what we are thinking about and learning.

Right now, that theme is racial/cultural reconciliation. And that phrase carries so much attached to it. And it is a theme that I hope continues to shape me and grow me for years to come.

Some of you might think I'm crazy or naive, to pursue this challenging and often touchy subject. I will admit that I am no expert and that I have and will continue to make mistakes on this journey, but God has burdened me with the desire to see people from different backgrounds and with unique experiences come together. I desire to see us come together so that we can share with each other the richness of our varied backgrounds. I learn so much from someone who is completely different than me, but that is not the first person I "naturally" approach.

Tomorrow/today we are having a discussion at Taylor about "Diversity". I'm extremely interested and excited for this to take place, and I pray for an open heart and mind for myself and those who will attend.

I leave for now with a few questions. Please respond in the comments below if you feel comfortable.

(1) Why do we naturally surround ourselves and approach those who are similar to us?
(2) Do you have a story or experience of a time when you got to know someone you "normally" wouldn't?
(3) What does diversity mean to you?

Note to Sunshine Gospel

2008-04-02T22:58:00.000-04:00

Maybe I'm naive, but I'm positive that some things actually changed in my life and in the lives of students here at Taylor. I've seen the change begin (and I'm realistic with change after doing multiple short term missions experiences). I've seen students approaching their minority roommate with a whole different perspective. I've heard about tough conversations. I've seen our students already pursue opportunities to share what they are learning in a variety of contexts.

Me. I view the world different. Will I sway from this at times. Yes, probably so. But, my eyes have been renewed. I view all situations through a fresher lens. A lens, I believe, that is a little more like the lens Jesus uses. My perspective is more eternal than it was 12 days ago. Thank you for being faithful in communicating and sharing what God has laid on your heart. I know it can get tiring and seem hopeless, but you have done a good work.

We most definitely saw compassion and peace modeled. You shared a tough message gracefully. You challenged us not out of guilt but solely out of a shift in worldview, a worldview shaped by the word of the almighty God. Your values were clear. Live justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly as we seek to see the poor and different than us the way God views them. This conversation will continue but I must work on my homework. Thanks Sunshine for sharing your time and your heart and your unique (sadly) view of the City from a Godly perspective.

Jumbled but I must...

2008-04-02T02:01:00.003-04:00

My thoughts are completely jumbled, but I must begin to get some thoughts down. I spent last week in Chicago with a group of 21 amazing people (seen above) and I sincerely believe (and maybe naively hope) that we were changed.

As we debriefed on Saturday, I came away with three phrases that I believe summed up my experience:

Reshaped/Renewed Eyes
Responders not Fixers
Role in the Kingdom

I've been back at school (trying feverishly to do work with little to show for it) and I've been thinking a lot about why God sent me to Chicago to learn and experience what I did last week. You see, call me crazy, but I'm convinced that I was only their last week because God intended and foreknew that I be there. I know I learned and I know I see the world at least a little differently, but where to next?

That is what I'm thinking through and that is where my thoughts seem to continue.

a Break in the Spring (Original, I know)

2008-03-20T23:10:00.002-04:00

We're leaving in the morning for an amazing opportunity to learn in Chicago, and I'm a little nervous and a lot tired.

We're in the heart of our semester here at Taylor and to be honest, I do not have time to NOT do schoolwork for a whole week.

I don't have time . I don't have energy. I don't have what I think I need.

So, I guess I'm hoping that people are right when they say that God likes to use us when we feel useless.
There is that verse in 2 Corinthians that says that we are strong when we are weak. I'm not exactly sure what it means to be weak, but I'm feeling a little weak right now. Maybe a lot.

So, if you happen to stumble upon these ramblings of mine, say a prayer for me and for our team of 21. Also, pray that God would have his way. I know he'll have his way anyway, but I just want us to be willing to be used.

Thanks.

Chicago SB 08

2008-03-10T23:40:00.003-04:00

Chicago. We are going there in less than 2 weeks. For Spring Break.

18 amazing students.

2 leaders.

1 n00b (that's my roommate Ben Taylor, but he's actually a leader as well).

While many wise persons head south to escape this wretched wet/ice/cold/slush/freezing/nasty weather, we will take the 4 hour drive to the windy city.

We're going to learn.
We're going to step into the lives of people who have different lifestyles and experiences than we do.
And, we're going to learn from them.

I'm really excited because it is in these times of feeling inadequate for an experience that God steps in to provide whatever is necessary. I'm excited to be with people. Real people who are different than me. But real people who have a story.

Pray for us if you think about it. Pray for Chicago. Thanks for reading.

RE-fresh-ING

2008-01-08T15:33:00.001-05:00

California is neat. SoCal as it is referred to in these parts (Huntington Beach, CA and basically LA and its surroundings) is a unique place. It truly does represent a different culture within the U.S. much like many other regions of country. But seriously, everything here is just so neat. Roads are clean. People have their routines (breakfast of something organic or perhaps Jamba Juice, a nice run along the pacific or maybe catch a surf, etc.) and everything seems to flow very nice. If you don't have a membership at the local gym, you are missing out. And, if you don't drive a Lexus, Mercedes, Range Rover, Maserati, or Bentley, you are in the minority.

Okay, I might be exaggerating a little, but this is my first time to SoCal and I've really enjoyed it, but I can't help but wonder if everything is really as "together" as it looks. People flock to California from all over the U.S. and all over the world. When I was in Lithuania, everyone wanted to move to Cal-E-forn-Ya. And, with this beautiful blue sky, no humidity, gorgeous January 8 day, I am beginning to understand why.

But, when the appeal of the weather and beauty wears off (if it ever does), what's left? Now, I am by no means bashing people for moving here...I seriously might some day (Westmont? Pepperdine? Azusa?) ...but I am questioning the life that many seem to be seeking. Will they ever find it? Will the happiness ever be completely fulfilling?

The thing is that I think this so-called life is what we all are seeking in a way. This kind of relates to my last post. We like wholeness, beauty, freshness, completeness, perfection, order. So does God, I think. And, I'm pretty sure he's trying to offer that to us. That very well might be offered through a day spent on one of the beautiful Pacific Ocean Beaches between Newport and Laguna Beach (what I did yesterday), or it may be that and so much more.
I think there's more.

I've been refreshed by being here. And, I've been asking questions, as you can see.

I want to keep seeking the "more" that I believe exists.

A New Year...so what?

2008-01-02T13:10:00.000-05:00

A New Year really doesn't change much. From my vantage points, the 6 inches of snow on the ground 2 days ago is still here. True, I did notice mom just changed the calendar in the kitchen. But really, we all know that a new set of 365 days really does little to alter the landscape.

However, like every year before, we do have the opportunity to take this small evidence of newness and apply some fresh change in our lives. I've been thinking. What is it about us, as humans, that so desperately wants to change, wants to be better? Every year, most people take some time to reflect on mistakes of the past and think ahead to hopes of progress in their lives.

Inherent in each of us is a desire to be better, to improve, to enjoy purity in life, even if it lasts only through January 3rd. I think this quality found in us is a result of our deep desire to please our Creator, to be found righteous in his sight.

So, despite my slightly pessimistic tone toward New Year's Resolutions, I think they're great. My hope is that our continual attempts to change and our perpetual failures will not drive us deeper into shame but will draw us closer to the Father that can truly clothe us with righteousness.

Recent Thoughts...

2007-12-17T11:50:00.000-05:00

I haven't said a lot on here recently...but who really cares. It's just a dumb blog. I waste time putting stuff on here, and a few loyal fans waste time reading/watching it. Or is it a waste?

What else do I "waste" time on?

Email? SportsCenter(I'm watching NOW because I don't have TV at my house)? Books? Homework? Movies? "Hanging out" with friends? Getting ready in the morning? Running my mouth? Sleeping? Myself?

Is any of this really a waste? I don't always know what is and what isn't.

I do know that I don't want to waste my life. (Adapted from John Piper's Don't Waste Your Life)

I want and need to be more intentional in the things I spend my time doing and in the choices I make each day. I would have way more time to reach out to the poor and needy around me if I would not be selfish with my time. So, that's my goal for the next few weeks.

British Kids are Smart!

2007-12-11T11:56:00.001-05:00

Coach Hoeppner. A true coach!

2007-11-20T00:53:00.000-05:00

I'm kind of on a video kick, but this is another really cool one!

I love coaches. I would love to be a coach of some sort some day.

This is the story of an amazing coach. A coach who recently died, and a wife that is carrying on his legacy. It's been hard, but it's amazing to see!

Indiana recently became bowl eligible for the fist time in year!

This Is Our God

2007-11-19T14:50:00.000-05:00

It's cloudy out. I can feel the pain of the world around me. I'm not motivated. It's then that I remember this:

The refuge for the poor, a shelter from the storm
This is our God
He will wipe away your tears and return your
wasted years
This is our God
So call upon His Name, He is mighty to save
This is our God

A father to the orphan, a healer to the broken
This is our God
And he brings peace to our madness and comfort
in our sadness
This is our God
This is our God

A fountain for the thirsty, a lover for the lonely
This is our God
He brings glory to the humble and crowns for the faithful
This is our God
So call upon His Name, He is mighty to save
This is our God

Chris Tomlin - "The Noise We Make"

This is why I'm a Notre Dame fan

2007-11-19T14:47:00.000-05:00

I love Lou Holtz.

conviction.

2007-11-16T23:33:00.000-05:00

Like...ya know?!

Taylor Mali (using an art called "slam poetry") calls our generation out for our lack of conviction...for our unwillingness to make absolute claims. For not wanting to step out on a limb because someone might disagree with us.

This video is really funny and REALLY good. What he says is so true. Watch and listen closely to his message. I've watched it lots and it fires me up each and every time.

Be like Brett

2007-10-30T23:58:00.001-04:00

Yes, I know it's a cheesy title (one of many that I've attempted to create). But, I like Brett Favre. His life really has a lot of characteristics that I'd like to have. You may think I'm crazy for making a comparison to Brett, but I can't help but like the guy.

He's been through a lot. He's made his share of mistakes.
I know I'll go through a lot. I've already made my share of mistakes.

But, I like that he still smiles. He still acts like a kid (this one's my favorite). He keeps going despite the doubters. He's courageous. He's creative. He soaks up life. Not to mention, he's pretty darn good looking.

Anyway, here's a video that I stole from Derry's blog. Take a look.

Thank you, Mr. Media!

2007-10-30T17:04:00.000-04:00

The following is an article worth reading:

Religious Right

Here an excerpt to get you thinking:

"All evangelicals—Rick Warren, Bill Hybels, Jim Dobson, Jim Wallis, Ron Sider—all of us, right and left, in our own way, are battling for traditional values, defending life, and pursuing justice and caring for the poor. We do it in the name of God, which is what sets the media's teeth on edge. And sure, abortion has been out front—and has been since the first century—because it goes to the whole dignity of human life. It's what drives me to go into the prisons and care about prisoners."
-Chuck Colson (www.breakpoint.org)

The media. What could we do without them? We believe a lot that we shouldn't. We hear a lot that helps us. I'm not claiming to be the expert on truth pouring from the media, but I am reminding myself and anyone else who might read this to be very careful about how you interpret anything coming from the media...

...and there's a lot coming at us.

Most amazing football play EVER!

2007-10-29T17:02:00.000-04:00

Air Time #5

2007-10-28T12:35:00.001-04:00

This was in a jungle in Indonesia. Picture those random oasis pools in the middle of a hot, muggy, spider-filled jungle and this is what we found. I'm going to add a video to this so you can see where we were.

This isn't some crazy jump or anything, but the location was phenomenal. Sorry if you don't like these posts about jumping off stuff, but it's my favorite thing in the world to do so I want to share some of the sweet places I've been able to do this.

Some(one) to lean on

2007-10-28T12:31:00.000-04:00

Last weekend was homecoming at Taylor. I was not all that excited about homecoming. I mean, honestly, I'm 23 and I haven't even left the place. How can a "homecoming" be all that great? I was excited to see some of my friends but had little idea of the excitement I would soon experience.

Moose, Chacko, Noelsefus, and BFree (my four roommates my Senior year) all came back. And it was weird. To me, it felt like they had returned home. And, lots of others came home and it was so great to see them all. The emotions and thoughts that would pour through my head over the those 48 hours are really kind of indescribable. On Friday night, by about 1 am, all 5 of us (the guys I mentioned earlier) were crammed into my bedroom and were falling asleep while talking about life...real life! It was then that I realized how important these guys (and so many others) are to me. It has been in community that I have really learned and processed so much about life.

And, it is in continued to community, with them and with others, that I continue to grow. In a book I am reading called Fabric of Faithfulness by Steven Garber (I'd really recommend it to anyone who is in college or works with 18-25 year olds), he writes a chapter on community. He tells of one man's (Donald Guthrie's) journey through life who realizes that "the people you choose to have around you have more to do with how you act upon what you believe than what you read or the ideas that influence you. The influence of ideas has to be there, but the application is something it's very hard to work out by yourself" (1996, p. 149).

I believe this whole heartedly. I've heard it said over and over again, but it's true:

We need each other.

It's how we learn about ourselves. The good and the bad.

It's how we get through the toughest of times.

It's how we are inspired to really live the adventure.

It's how we see Jesus Christ.

And, it's ultimately through community that we see our need for the ONE who will never let us down. Jesus. He provides everything we need. But, he also provides people with which we can live life. I'm thankful for that. I realize I've been blessed beyond belief with amazing people in my life. Homecoming was just a reminder of that. Thanks guys. And thanks to all of you who have taught me and are still teaching me how to live.

What is Worship?

2007-10-21T23:30:00.000-04:00

Take a moment and watch this!

Busyness

2007-10-18T23:37:00.000-04:00

I'm doing it again.

I'm letting it dominate me, and I know it's not quite right.

What have we set up for ourselves here in America? It almost seems as though we've created a culture that cannot survive without it.

Are we all buying into a lie? Is it supposed to be this way? Are we stopping long enough to ask these questions?

I think Satan's chilling right now and he's pretty pleased with the mess he's created.
This madness.
This busyness.

I'm sure it's not all bad. I know we're supposed to give it all we've got. I know we're supposed to use the gifts we've been given. But for what?

All I know is that I need to slow down.................more often...............and................let................my............

........God...........
...........be..............
.............God.

He wants to. I let the evil that is busyness blind me to that fact.

Margin. Slowness. Peace. Quiet. Stillness. Silence. Listen. Be. Chill.

I need more of those in my life. When I have them, I know it's right.

And, then I do it again.

Air Time #4

2007-09-28T00:55:00.000-04:00

West Virginia. The back flip. Til we found out it was illegal and a $6000 fine or 5 years in prison (your choice).

When the Word is Loved

2007-09-28T00:17:00.000-04:00

I have noticed several people over time that have exhibited an unreal love of the Word of God. It is so obvious in the way they live, and it is so desirable. The problem is that few people really exhibit this love for God's Word. Why is this? That's a question that could be analyzed for days.

The peace and humility that comes from someone who has allowed themselves to be changed by Jesus and His Word is contagious. Here's a few people I've observed this in:

Ravi Zacharius
Alistair Begg
Erik Thoennes

Les Beauchamp
Dwight Knight
Derry Prenkert

Anyway, all I know is that when I get to hear or be around someone who exudes passion and excitement and humility as they share God's word, it makes me want to know it better.

Dogs and Bikes

2007-09-15T10:21:00.000-04:00

I've had my share of bike stories from the past couple of weeks:

1.) This picture above is in Colorado. My dad wanted to take my picture and he wanted a mountain in the background. In the process of trying to turn around on the gravel road I bit the dust and my whole family just laughed at me. At the moment, I wasn't too happy about it so I just rode off in frustration. Sometimes I really don't like the way I react to situations and I wish I could take it back, yet I seem to just keep being an idiot in certain cases. (Notice the lack of a beautiful mountain in the picture regardless...thanks Dad)

2.) About a month ago, my Dad (yes, I blame pops again) thought it would be a good idea for me to take our Golden Retriever, Kloe, for a bike ride. Things were going well until she saw a rabbit and suddenly darted out in front of me. I held firmly to her leash which proceeded to rip off her neck, collar and all, and then spin up my front tire, locking into my brakes which halted my bike immediately and sent me flying straight over the handle bars. I landed on my chin and hands. I had Jay Leno chin for about 3 days.

3.) The other night I was out for a nice sunset ride. I saw 2 muts chasing me down, but I made it safely past them thinking, "There's no way I'm coming back this way." About 2 minutes later I came to a dead end in the road. Sweet! I turned around, bolstered up my confidence (and my spandex) and took off. Turner and Hooch came running once again, tongue and slobber and all, so I used my new found "Fighting off Dogs while on your Bike" technique. I yelled, "No, No, No" at the top of my lungs. It worked, or so I thought. I got up to the owner's house only to see a man standing on the porch holding an electric shock remote control that had obviously been the real "winner" of the dog control.

4.) This morning I rode in a triathlon. This one doesn't include dogs. It just includes me falling over while connected to my bike as I attempted to transition from the biking portion to the running. Needless to say, I was exhausted.

Moral: Enjoy your day.

Putin, 2 days later

2007-09-15T07:12:00.000-04:00

Interesting how things are just lining up so neat and tidy for Vladimir Putin. This article came out today. I'm telling you: Putin ain't going anywhere anytime soon.

Meanwhile, it's 7:13 am on Saturday morning. The temperature is 42 F. I'm about to go run a mini triathlon which means I have to swim, which means I'm going to freeze. I guess this is what memories are made of.

Go Irish.

a HUGE day in the WORLD of news

2007-09-12T21:38:00.000-04:00

I really need to be working on a paper and a lesson plan for tomorrow, but I have been blown away by some things that are happening in the news today, and I've been shocked at how little it's seemed to have been talked about. Sometimes I am amazed at our naivety to what is going on in the Middle East right now. At the same time, I am very sympathetic to the amount that people have "on their plate" and to worry about the situation in the Middle East just doesn't even surface as priority. So, in an effort to educate the small audience that reads this blog, and to humor myself, I have compiled several headlines from CNN.com that I wanted to pass along.

I am reading a book about the Middle East by Joel Rosenberg entitled Epicenter so that is why I am thinking about this issue so much, but today some BIG stuff happened. Today Putin's current Prime Minister resigned and Putin named his replacement for purposes relating to the upcoming elections. Putin is a very clever and sly guy who is recreating a dictatorship over in Russia right before our eyes. Don't be surprised if he overlooks the constitutional limitation of two presidential terms and continues on next Spring as Russia's leader.

On this very same day, reports came out of Russia about the "daddy of all bombs" being tested by the Russians. The question must follow: What exactly is Putin planning. Also, of note, is the growing alliance between Russia and Iran, namely Putin and Ahmadinejad. Today, Ahmadinejad, Iran's President, repeated in uncertain terms what he has been saying for quite some time: that Israel is evil and needs to be destroyed and the U.S. destruction should soon follow. Follow news on Iran. It's coming out every day, and it's very interesting/scary.

Meanwhile, General Petraeus is back from Iraq and has presented an optimistic report about the goings on in Iraq, and he is receiving ridicule from the media that he cannot be trusted and that he is simply a puppet for Bush. Judge for yourselves.

The top story on CNN.com today is actually about how some Sunni Iraqis and American soldiers are getting along very well and sharing in culture and strategic alliance to rid the country of evil.

Other news, of personal interest to me, is that Indonesia (the island of Sumatra) was hit by an earthquake yesterday of an 8.2 magnitude. That's big and now there are concerns about Tsunami's. It never registered with me that 220,000 Indonesian people were killed by the 2004 tsunami. Imagine if that happened in the U.S.

Also if you're a traveller, Bolivia is on the verge of requiring Americans to obtain a visa for entry into their country. They are simply trying to replicate the treatment they receive from America when trying to enter the U.S.

I looked at the news more today than most days but all of these stories interested me and in certain ways are very intertwined. Take them with a grain of salt if you'd like, but think about the implications of some of them.

My Sister's 18th Birthday!

2007-09-11T00:07:00.000-04:00

Kalyn, my adorable little sister, turns 18 today. That phrase, while it might sound boring and menial to you, is almost the craziest thing I have ever tried to force myself to believe. Either I am really old (now I know why our parents always say that) or time has just flown by.

My little sister...18. She's going to college next year. She's been driving for 2 years. She went to the state finals last year. She is the leader of her basketball team. She is a leader in her youth group. She is a leader at her school. When she talks, I know to listen, because she has so much depth and insight running around inside of her.

I love my sis. Sometimes I don't show it the best, but I love her a lot. I just can't believe she has grown into the woman that she has. Well, I can believe it, but it's happened so fast. I am so proud of her and I respect her a lot. I am so anxious to see where God might take her and I hope that I can be right there beside her as she pursues her Creator in everything that she does.

Happy Birthday KK!

Air Time #3

2007-09-07T23:36:00.001-04:00

This is a recent one. Not very high. I think I'm becoming more of a panzie in my old age. It's at the Salamonie Reservoir. I was getting ready to jump off the bridge which was about 45-50 feet when a cop pulled up and told us that jumping from more than SIX FEET is illegal. Crap!

Stages in life :: A brief hiatus

2007-09-04T16:49:00.001-04:00

Transition. It's sort of been the theme word for the past several weeks of my life. Transitioning from college to life. From undergraduate studies to graduate work. From a kid to...an "adult".

I've been quiet on here because I've been trying to keep up with the craziness that can come with transition. I've started graduate school this Fall at Taylor University. I'm studying for a Master of Arts in Higher Education and I confess it feels very odd to call myself a graduate student. I always thought of people that went to grad school as uppity, elitist academics that I could never relate to. (Wow, I hope people don't see me like that)

So, there's been a lot of thoughts, excitement, confusion, questions, laughs, and READING as I've begun my time here. The most common questions I get:

"What are you doing back here? Didn't you a graduate?"
"What are you getting your Masters in?" (I say Higher Ed.) "Oh, so you want to be a professor!"
(No, I actually don't want to be a professor. I really want to work with college age students though and be a part of discipling them and encouraging them in this transitional time period of life.)

The more I think about it, though, the more I realize that life is full of transitions. Some might call it change. We are not created to enjoy change, but I've found myself craving new things (maybe too much sometimes) because I know that I am challenged and stretched through those experiences.

No big thoughts. My brain's fried. But, I would say, Don't shy away from change. Sometimes it's the thing you need most right now.

A People Loved

2007-08-22T15:54:00.000-04:00

Check out this website: Apeopleloved.com
A lot of interesting info on Islam and its influence in SE Asia.

I recently received an email with this report from my friends in SE Asia:

Kara lives in one of the island villages and recently had some believer friends staying with her family. One night, one of these friends (who comes from a Muslim background) said that he would like to study the Qur'an with Kara to explain how she could be sure about going to heaven. The following evening, when Kara's parents went out to tend the family store, Kara was home alone with her friends. They sat down for the first study of the Qur'an, and her friend led her through the Qur'an pointing to Isa Almasih (Jesus the Messiah) as the only hope for salvation and the Bible as the book of truth. Kara had many questions and the next morning she asked if she could continue to study the Qur'an and the Bible with her friends.

Though her friends have now left the island, Kara regularly sends text messages asking about different verses in the Qur'an about Jesus.

* Praise God for Kara's interest and desire to seek the truth.
* Pray that the Lord will work in Kara's life, that He will send dreams that will lead her to Jesus.
* Pray that God would protect Kara from distraction and spiritual attack in this time of seeking.
* Pray that the rest of Kara's family will also come to faith.

This is so encouraging to me as it is evidence that the Gospel is breaking through in this part of the world. I was there this past January and I hope to go back soon, but if you are one that spends time praying for the world, add SE Asia and the Muslim people as well as those ministering to them to your prayer list.

Air Time #2

2007-08-17T09:41:00.000-04:00

This picture finds me, Kory, Mitchell, and Tyler (my cousins) in Colorado jumping off a cliff into Mills Lake (a really cold mountain lake). I love jumping off of high stuff into water.

SALT Pictures

2007-08-16T11:54:00.000-04:00

Some pictures from the Bethel College Athletic Leadership Retreat.

Reaching the Unreached of Maasailand

2007-08-15T15:13:00.001-04:00

Caleb Bislow is beginning the process of taking the gospel to the unreached peoples of Kenya. This is so cool and something worthy of joining hands with.

Air Time - #1

2007-08-15T14:52:00.000-04:00

It seems as though blog "series" are the thing to do these days so I've decided to start my own series entitled "Air Time". In this thrilling series, I will simply post some of my favorite pictures of jumping off things or on things that are really cool. At least I think they are cool. This one is from Colorado just a few weeks ago. We just hiked to the top of a 13,001 foot peak. It was called Mt. Chiquita. I couldn't find any banana trees on top though.

One Republic

2007-08-14T12:28:00.001-04:00

Check out this new band. Not sure where they stand, but they sound real good.

Looking back on Brock

2007-08-14T08:54:00.001-04:00

11 days ago I was helping to build those (above). Specifically the pieces of metal running vertically about every 5 feet. It was scintillating.

I ended my time in the factory 11 days ago, and this morning I'm just looking back a bit. I was talking to my Grandparents yesterday and my Grandma said that it's pretty evident that God had a plan in placing me in that factory. I'm not sure how all that works with God putting us places and stuff, but I am sure that he can and will use us wherever we are...if we are willing.

That's not to say that amazing things will happen. A friend told me yesterday that she spent a whole summer working with youth and can maybe pinpoint one girl in which she has seen marked change.

My dad recently said that it's all about being faithful and obedient. It's not our job to change lives, but it is absolutely our job to be obedient to God. If you don't feel God leading you in some specific manner, then just think about his commandment to love your neighbor. Be creative, and figure out a way to do this. God will use your obedient heart, no doubt.

So, on my last day of work I got Brian's phone number. He invited me to come see his son wrestle this winter. (He also promised to give me his famous yet simple recipe for biscuits and gravy.) I asked Brian what one lesson he would pass on to his three boys if he could. He said he would pass on a strong faith in God, something he's only merely learning about recently. I was floored by that answer. This is simply one of many comments Brian made that blessed me. I can't wait to see Brian again. He's taught me a lot and I'm thankful for the 6 weeks I had of working with him.

Brice is still struggling. The divorce and custody are in process, but Brice is down and out. All I really feel I can do is pray for the man and his family. I feel helpless so that's what I'll try to do.

6 weeks at a factory. That's it. I went to make money. More importantly, unique friendships were formed and I was blessed through it. I hope others were as well.

The World of Fantasy

2007-08-13T19:45:00.000-04:00

For the last six years I've been a part of a fantasy football league. You may think I'm crazy to live in this football "fantasy world" every Fall, but it's been such a cool thing to stay connected with some great guys.

My high school youth pastor, Derry Prenkert, wrote something cool today about our league. You can and should read it here. Outside of my family, Derry is definitely one of the top five most influential people in my life.

Lives Changed

2007-08-10T21:22:00.000-04:00

More lives have been changed. How grateful I am just to be a part of God's moving power.

I just got back from a week long trip to West Virginia with 25 Bethel College athletes. It was the 3rd annual SALT (Student Athlete Leadership Training) Retreat at Bethel. I spent last summer interning for my dad (the athletic director) planning this retreat. This year it was so cool to help teach and just be a part of these amazing people's lives.

We went to Fayetteville, WV for the second straight year. We stayed at this amazing retreat center where we truly are able to get away from all of the busyness of life. We focus much of the time on spiritual leadership training, but it is amazing how God simply uses the theme as a tool to radically impact hearts.

Vulnerability was evident.

Honesty was present.

Tears were abundant.

Joy was overflowing.

Learning was great.

Encouragement was shared.

Advice was offered.

The Holy Spirit moved. Being a part of the fresh wind of God's power is so cool.

I think Bethel College Athletics has another group of people ready to see God move. They are all competitors and they all love to win, but God is working into them a desire to most importantly see their teammates lives changed. They also desire for their love of Christ to carry over into their campus and into their world. I believe it will happen. Keep an eye out. If you know them, keep them accountable.

I must also admit that we had an absolute blast. A hike. A day rafting on the New River. TONS of games. Amazing worship. Bonfire. Ridiculously good food. So much laughter.

I love these people because I have experienced life with them and have seen God move in them.

Newsflash: It's not about me.

2007-08-01T17:46:00.001-04:00

I won't go into detail, but I've been humbled as of late.

Humbled.
Something that is good for us all but never easy.
A scary thing to pray for, but it always ends up being a healthy thing.

I find that at the moment I am humbled, while not fun, I want to stay in that mindset. I want to remember what it feels like to realize I'm not better than others and I never want to go back to where I was before. Unfortunately, I inevitably do.

So, recently I've been reminded, in a very good way, that I cannot be the savior of the world (A guy who is much more qualified already did that). In fact, I really can't "do" anything apart from Christ working through me.

The guy working beside me in the factory. I can't change him.
The homeless person I pass on the street. I can't fix their state.
The sadness I see a friend going through. I can't take away their pain.
The orphans I saw in Russia. I can't be their father.
The millions of abandoned and abused children in the world. I can't come to all of their aid.

But, I can humble myself before the Almighty God and then maybe, just maybe (often most likely if I'm really serving him), he'll begin to work on some of these problems THROUGH me. There needs to be a fluidity in this, a balance. I need to be walking side by side with my Lord and then naturally the outpouring of His Spirit in me should do what it needs to do.

So, do I do nothing? No.
But, I really can't do anything.
Confusing? Probably.

I need God to do it. I need him to carry my burdens. I need him to be all that I need. Truthfully, if it's about me feeling good about helping people, great, but that doesn't mean a whole lot. It's about me loving my God and then Him pouring out his blessings on others through me.

I just rambled. Okay, I feel better now.

Factory Update (The Little Things)

2007-07-17T22:15:00.001-04:00

It's 10:15 pm. I should be in bed, but I have too much excitement about little joys amidst the monotony of the factory. You remember Brice (if you don't, read back a few posts). Brice has been through the gutter over the past week and I've been praying like crazy for him. With 50+ hours a week to either sit and think or talk to my painting partner (the famous Stephen Dingeldein) I spend a lot of time praying. I told Brice that I care and that I've been praying for him. He's softened to me and each day gives me at least a little update on how things are going. Today, for example, was a bad day as he was wrestling with whether his wife could return to the family for the 4th time. I have no idea what to tell him. He's torn over it.

Well, yesterday was where a "little" battle was won. Brice came up to me first thing at 4:45 am Monday morning to tell me he decided to go to church for the first time in 7 months. He took his 3 girls and told the church what had been going on in his life. After the service, the church gathered around Brice and "prayed over him." Brice said he "sure felt better about himself after that." I am so proud of that church for responding to this guy who needs loved so badly right now. I have no idea what I should do or say but I'm trying to be there.

Then there's Brian the welder who has been talk to Steve and I like crazy lately. We have no idea where Brian stands in his relationship with Jesus (or if he has one at all). Today he told us that "there is no d&#% way in h&%$ that my marriage would still be together if it weren't for THE MAN (pointing up)". We agreed with him and he proceeded to say "We don't claim to be the best Christian people in Kosciusko County but we do know the Good Lord is watching out for us. Let me tell you boys, marriage is tough."

All these guys give us a little different perspective on life and I'm learning a ton from them. Little joys of seeing God work in there lives and mine throughout the day. It's amazing what a little light can do in a dark place!

Don't even get me started on Dan, the reserve police officer. Maybe another day.

My friends and the Barbarian Way

2007-07-13T21:16:00.000-04:00

My friends are crazy...

...and I love it!

Ted's living and working amidst a variety of hurting and lost people in Chicago.
Emily is currently in Nepal working with and for victims of sex traffiking.
Ging is in the Dominican Republic with Score International.
Chacko is leaving for South Korea in 2 days.
David Nay is heading to England with Operation Mobilization.
David Ridenour will soon be on his way to China for a year.
David "Frenchy" Mercier will be moving to Russia for 9 months.
Andrew's going to Nepal in the Fall.
Kory's going to Ecuador in 2 weeks.
Others are going elsewhere.
Others are staying.
I'm going to Upland (crazy, I know!)

I say none of this to mean that you have to go overseas to be crazy. In fact, sometimes it's hardest to be "crazy" right where you are most comfortable. And maybe sometimes that's where this craziness is most needed. I'm reminded once again, and I feel strongly about this, that I must LIVE the Barbarian Way (thanks go to Erwin McManus). This word "barbarian" may freak some out, but what I mean is that...

I must be different.

I must take risk.

I must love recklessly.

I must be bold.

I must be humble.

I must have hope.

If I say I'm with Jesus, I must be crazy about him and for him.

We must do this!

Some of my friends are trying to do this.
Am I trying to do this?
Are you trying to do this?
Right now. Right where you are.
Do something crazy.

Chicago is cool.

2007-07-12T22:15:00.001-04:00

Last weekend was one of the most refreshing, enjoyable, and beautiful weekends of my young adult life. I never thought I would say this, but I love Chicago. I spent last weekend in the windy (and really hot) city and it was packed full yet surprisingly relaxing.

I got to take my buddy Eric as he was flying out early Saturday morning to spend the next 2 months in the Dominican Republic. I'm really proud of him for stepping out like this. I also got to catch up with one of my great friends from home, Adam. Then, the three of us met up with Teddy Friday night which meant we had 4 members of our 6-man high school crew. All 5 of these guys (Nate, Adam, Ben, Teddy, Eric) have become some of the best friends ever and I love any chance I get to spend with them.

Saturday was spent enjoying the day. After Ted took us to the Austin neighborhood (walking down the sidewalk here a guy drove by and shouted, "You're white!") to show us where he works with inner-city youth, Adam and I hopped on our bikes and headed downtown to Giordiano's Pizza.

It was here I met Chuck. I was first introduced to Chuck as I walked by him holding onto my bike helmet. He was sitting on a blanket with his bag beside him and he said, "Looks like you're missing a bike!" He was a friendly homeless man.

We went into order our pizza and were confronted with a 45 minute wait so I decided to join Chuck on the sidewalk in the sweltering Chi-Town heat. Chuck's story left me a bit shocked.

The following details were stated by Chuck. I believe him. You may not.

Chuck graduted from Northwestern and has a masters degree from Lawrence Tech. He is an electrician. (He said he "worked" for Bill Gates laying fiber optics a while back). He has been back home in Chicago for the past 8 years. He has 2 children and his wife divorced him three years ago, taking all of their assets with her. That's when things seem to really shake up for Chuck. He has been on the streets for 5 months. He uses his girlfriend's cell phone number and a church's address when applying for jobs. His mother has a home in Highland Park right on Lake Michigan (She lives down the road from Mr. T and in the same area as Michael Jordan). She does his laundry, but they don't have a real good relationship so he rarely stays there. He is hungry and thirsty and hot. He doesn't drink. He does smoke.

All this to say. He has a story. Quite an interesting story. I listened. I didn't know what to say. I probably could have said something better than I did. We went in and ate our pizza and brought him a slice of the deep dish goodness. He asked for a bottle of water (quite an interesting request from a homeless man). We got him one. I tried to love Chuck. I'm not sure how well I did. I just hope he saw Jesus in me.

The rest of the afternoon was spent meandering up the coast on the amazing bike trails. I soaked up every minute of this time and I hope to be back soon to do a longer ride.

Saturday night was spent with the amazing Birkey family (Noel was one of my roommates Senior year and one of my best friends).

Sunday morning was spent with Nate Baggett at Harvest Bible Church (the home of James McDonald). I really enjoyed it.

I headed home later that evening after seeing my boy Chacko at Noel's graduation party. A great weekend.

An interesting day in the factory

2007-07-10T17:31:00.000-04:00

So, I overslept and woke up at 6:27 am (I was supposed to be at work at 4:30 am). I arrive at 6:40, tell my boss why I was late and begin my mindless duty only to be thrown into a brick wall by what I was about to hear. My co-worker, Brice, tells me, through tears, that his wife of 8 years (as of July 1) left him and their 3 girls last night. Realizing very quickly how menial my problems of this early morning were, I tried hard to console my new friend but couldn't find more than 3 or 4 useful words. The next 2 hours were silent and sobering. To make matters worse, I started getting pretty nauseous and was feeling awful. It was a low moment in my summer and I felt so deeply burdened and saddened by Brice's situation. He later would tell me that she has cheated on him before (once giving him an STD) and he had once spent $800 toward a divorce before she came back. He also said that next time he marries, he wants to get the approval of his parents (unlike last time which was a just a rush). So, all that to say, my job has shown me the deep realities of sadness, brokenness, and sin in this world and today was the biggest blow I've received. Pray for Brice if you get a chance.

4:30 am - 3:00 pm

2007-06-24T01:32:00.000-04:00

The shift I'm working at a local factory is placing me on a schedule that I never thought I would experience nor choose to live by. The past 3 days I have leaped out of bed at approximately 3:49 am with thoughts centered simply on surving the next 11 hours and 11 minutes of my life. While the work I am doing is completely and utterly miserable and menial, I have found some joys within it. I am a believer that I am in this place for a season ordained by God and I must glorify him and share the light of Christ wherever I find myself. Guess what? From June 21 - July 20 I find myself working 60 hours a week chipping away metal off of heavy steel beams, rubbing the debris away from the cracks and crevices, and painting over it....ALL DAY!

I've met Brice. Brice is a guy who has probably been judged negatively much of his life and people might push him off to the side when looking for the "high achiever". After scraping metal beams for 8 straight hours with Brice I found a lot out about a cool guy. I found a guy who has three children at home. He'll be married for 8 years come July 1, and he is on his 4th day at this job after a 6 month layoff period. Brice works hard...harder than me. Brice doesn't complain and Brice has been very kind to me in teaching me the ropes. Brice is someone I admire and someone I hope to spend more time with.

I've gotten to work the past 20 hours with Nate. We turn the most agonizing job into competitions as we race in our attempt to make the time pass. It does help. I've found a lot out about a kid who was a Freshman in high school when I was a Senior. A kid that has had some tough breaks in life. His older brother has a kid and is on drugs and is in and out of jail. He lives with his mom and is going to college in the Fall.

I've also met Juan and Brian and Larry and Spencer. God has blessed me with a college degree. But, for now, God has blessed me with a group of men to spend the next month with.

Only he can use me to make an impact for his Kingdom. I'm willing to be used. I hope he chooses to use me.

Today was a top 3 day

2007-06-12T12:07:00.000-04:00

On our way down today from a Swiss Alp peak, we were talking about our top three days. This was a difficult task and we realized how incredibly blessed we have been and how much we have seen and experienced in 3 short/long weeks. We start making the trek back tomorrow as we plan to sleep in the Zurich airport, but we are still soaking in each and every moment.

Today was incredible because we woke up with hopes of a certain hike, but it was raining so we changed plans. We set out on a hike that we were not real sure about, but 2 hours later we found ourselves on top of a peak both overlooking and staring massive Swiss Alps in the face. We were literally all by ourselves for three hours on top of this nub of a peak and we had a blast. I found this spot that I sat and as I looked to my right I saw a cliff, straight ahead was a 1000+ foot drop and to my left was just enough rock for me to brace myself against so I didn't fall. It was there that me and God had a nice chat and he once again blew me away. I was mind boggled as I sat and stared at His creation. These mountains rise STRAIGHT up out of the ground and are so close together. We were also surrounded by clouds much of the time and it was nuts. I've never been so awestruck.

Tonight we are cooking dinner again (rice and potatoes and peaches). Gerbz is a stud cook. We are eating well and saving money. One more big peak in the morning and we will start heading home. I know the guys are excited to see people and get home, but we will never forget what we have been able to experience these past 3 weeks.

So much...

So thankful...

So blessed...

Gimmelwald and a Mountain staring me in the face

2007-06-11T16:26:00.000-04:00

I just got inside. It is 10.27 pm here (that is 22.27 military time) and I was outside sitting on the side of a mountain with a much bigger mountain directly across the valley below staring at me. Massive amounts of water were shooting off of tons of spouts making a sweet, soothing noise.

We are in a hostel which has a lot of Americans and a lot of alcohol, but we are having a good time and staying under control. We made pasta for dinner tonight and got more stuffed than we have been all trip. It was nice.

Rosti last night was great Grandma and Grandpa. It was also our biggest food splurge of the trip.

Tomorrow we plan to take a hike to a peak. It may rain but we will see. We are loving the Swiss Alps and our final days here.

Home away from home

2007-06-10T12:48:00.000-04:00

Lauterbrunnen...Kory and I are sitting here in one of our favorite places in the world at our really nice hostel in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Ben and Austin are up taking naps and we are getting ready to go enjoy some Rosti which is famous in the area (and strongly recommended by Grandpa and Grandma Lantz). We are entering our final 4 days and while it has gone so fast, it has been incredible. This is the perfect place to end and for the perfect amount of time.

We finished our time in Rome with a little action. The Bush visit to Rome did happen to spark some small riots. We happened to be in the middle of one as it started. There were some loud bangs that erupted chaos among the crowds. Ben and Austin had there restaurant table jumped over. Kory and I were casually eating gelati when hundreds rounded a corner stampeding toward us. We quickly got out of there and all is well, but needless to say it was one of the scarier moments of our lives.

It was crazy to feel very vulnerable as an American. I felt the hatred and anger in the streets and I felt it almost aimed at me. I wonder if this is the beginnings of how it would feel to really be persecuted as a follower of Christ...to be hated simply because of who I am. This was an experience I will never forget. People were running all over, stealing things, drinking abandoned beers...we wondered if the end was near. I'm sure that you will here much about this in a few days, but we are safe and in the most peaceful country in the history of the world.

This morning we arrived to Spiez, Switzerland from our night train and got on a ferry around 9.30 am to tour Thunersee and Brienzsee (two big lakes). We spent the next 5 hours enjoying the beauty of the water with mountains jutting out on all sides. It was an incredible morning. Then up the valley and to our hostel in Lauterbrunnen. Tomorrow we will head to Gimmelwald for 2 nights before trekking to Zurich for our flight out.

We can't wait to see you all!

Down the stretch...

2007-06-09T03:17:00.000-04:00

We are seeing the finish line and I think part of us never wants this dream to end. Another part of us is tired as we have moved at a very fast pace and we've seen a ton and walked miles and worn the same shirt 5 days straight. This morning we will head over to the Vatican with hopes of seeing some Michaelangelo art and maybe the pope. By the way, George Bush is in town and yesterday we were standing along the road and heard a bunch of sirens so Kory started filming (Ben loves the European police sirens). Next thing we know, it turns into a huge motorcade and we saw Washington D.C. plates and tons of cars and we know it was Bush's motorcade. It was kind of exciting for a second.

Rome is a fantastic city. Everywhere you walk there are cobblestone streets, barely wide enough to fit one vehicle and thousands of little ristorantes and millions of gelaterias. We have been splurging a bit on the gelati, but it is just so incredibly good. We saw the Colloseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, Campo di Fiori, Piazza del Nuevo, and many other OLD Romans things.

I think we have all gained a higher level of bravery as we try to get around. The guys are no longer afraid to approach almost anyone to inquire as to where in the world we are and how do we get to such and such a place. It's nice to have all the help.

The train ride along the coast yesterday was very cool and afforded us about 4 hours to read and write and talk. We have all read at least one book (Austin studies for M-CATS) and have had great conversations as we've spent many hours "on the road". We are most definitely closer because of this experience and we will take many shared stories with us for the rest of our lives. This once-in-a-lifetime trip has been incredible and we only hope to soak up these last 5 days as much as we can.

When in Rome...

2007-06-08T03:29:00.000-04:00

...we will behave ourselves and not do anything mom wouldn't approve of. Dad, I remember your advice: Think once. Think Twice. Then, think again. If you feel good about it then, do it. That has worked fairly well for us.

Yesterday ended up being a gorgeous day at Cinque Terre. The rain cleared. We hiked all 5 villages, ate some great food, and loved the day. It was one of the best days of our trip so far, hands down. We finished with dinner on the Mediterranean Sea and them some amazing gelati. Our hostel here was hilariously dirty, but it was very "cheapy", in the words of Mama Rossa!

Today we head to Rome for one night then tomorrow night we head to our final destination: Switzerland. I can't wait for that.

We are getting dirtier by the day, our soul patches/beards are looking great, we are getting enough food, we are drinking some sketchy water but not being too bothered, and we haven't killed each other. Life is good. Moms, we love you and everyone else.

Grandma and Grandpa Lantz: Thank you so much for the recommendation of Cinque Terre. We WILL return and we hope to do so with family. You all would LOVE this hidden gem of Europe, seriously. It is getting more expensive by the year though.

Peace out.

Cinque Terre

2007-06-07T05:06:00.000-04:00

We are in beautiful Italy on the Mediterranean coast at Cinque Terre. Sadly, it is pouring down rain but we plan to hike it anyway. The last few days have been interesting...Many stories I'm sure, but we were always safe and sound. We slept one night on trains in train stations and it was fun. We spent yesterday morning (7 hours) in Venice. Tomorrow we head to Rome for a day or so then off to Switzerland. We are still having fun and hoping the weather lightens up...doesn't look good though.

One week left!

Ljubljana, Slovenia

2007-06-03T16:04:00.000-04:00

The capital of this country that we never anticipated spending too much time in is our place of rest for night number 4. At 6:20 tomorrow morning we head to Croatia. We plan to camp on or near the beach.

This morning started off nicely as we slept in, cooked some eggs and sausage for breakfast, Kory and I took a run, but then I was an idiot. I sat on a glass table...oops! Guess what? Yeah, it broke. Try explaining to a cute little Slovenian woman that you broke her favorite table. I felt terrible. We paid (it was cheap) and headed to the bus that would bring us here. It was a 4 hour bus ride through the mountains...the entire way. Wow! I've seriously never turned more times per minute in my entire life. I bet we averaged 7 turns per minute for 4 hours. But, we made it.

We've found this city to be full of amazing food, a beautiful castle overlooking the city, and a lot of people making out. We like it a lot though. Dinner was fantastic! Mom, you would have loved the salad Kory and I got.

Cultures are a beautiful thing to explore. It really gives you a taste of how beautifully diverse our God is. We found ourselves constantly stopping to stare at the Slovenian mountains and just saying, ˝Wow!˝ The people here have also been so kind and so helpful. We have met many generous Slovenian souls. God is creative...and we've loved seeing more and more of his creativity, in people and in nature.

The Word is in: Slovenia may in fact be God's country

2007-06-02T15:04:00.000-04:00

Coming into night 3 in the beautiful quaint but majestic country of Slovenia. I never would have thought I'd spend 3-4 nights in this country of 2 million. We went canyoning yesterday with Luna, our guide. Amazingly and sometimes scarily, he let us do about anything we wanted. We'd say, ˝Can we jump from here?˝ and he would nod yes. And we would continue this process again and again. No waiver. No release. Little instruction. Add all this up for Kory, Gerbz, Ben, and myself and you get a really, really great time. Highlight was a 12 m waterfall that we slid down...straight down...at the end. We have video footage to prove.

Hitchhiking was fun...and very safe in Slovenia. Our 2 bedroom, kitchen, and bath apartment is rocking and we have cooked twice there. Tonight we had authentic Slovenia meat...very good. We are living the dream and it really does feel like a dream.

This morning we went hydrospeeding. Look it up online. Water was freezing and I'm sure my hands have never been this numb...frostbite was looming...but we conquered rapids on our bellies with only a little plastic thing and fins, that tons of people were rafting through...wimps. We took a nap and at some PBJ (our staple this trip) and some fresh fruit (we made friends with the local fresh fruit salesman and we've visited him about 4 times. He always gives us about 4 times too many cherries, but he does it with a sneaky smile and we can't turn him down.

We snaked our way around on a hike this afternoon which we had no idea where we were going. We ended up going UP a DOWNHILL mountain biking trail. Really hard, but really fun. It rained on us. We saw a spectacular rainbow and the city below. It cleared up and we saw the gorgeous Julian Alps.

TOmorrow we sleep in and then head to the capital, Ljubljana, and then the next morning we will head to Pula, Croatia we believe. Can't wait for the beaches. For those following our itinerary. We will be in Switzerland only 3-4 nights now. Stops in Venice, Cinque Terra, and Rome still are in our horizon before finishing in Lauterbrunnen/Gimmelwald.

We are in amazement at God's provision and guidance.

We love each other. We love you all!

Hallstatt rocked...venturing into the unknown of Slovenia

2007-05-31T08:35:00.000-04:00

...and hoping we don´t run into Slobadan Milosavich. We are 28 km from our destination in Slovenia for the next few days. We have been on trains all day travelling through much of Austria. This country is absolutely gorgeous and I´ve been so glad to see the more of it. Our train weaved through a valley and along rivers for miles.

Hallstatt was so cool. Yesterday we woke up to rain and we were a bit disappointed but we headed out with no agenda. By midafternoon we were on top of a mountain overlooking Hallstattersee (the lake below) eating warm apple strudel and vanilla custard (famous to Austria) and staring a mountian range directly in the face. It was a highlight for all of us. We´ve also been laughing a lot...in case you were wondering.

A typical day would find me taking about 350 pictures, Ben leading us around a city (or mountain) faithfully and courageously holding a map, Kory vowing not to look at a sign for three weeks (actually he has stepped it up and helped out a lot), and Gerbz making Kory laugh so hard that even the stone faced train ticketmasters always seem to muster a laugh. I just act like I don´t know them.

The past seven days have been some of the best of my life. Last night we sat by the lake and just talked about life amidst the quietness only interrupted by the ducks doing their evening fishing.

Within about 48 hours we hope to be canyoning and hydrospeeding. If you´re worried about us (I know most of you are not) then now might be the time to really start praying. We hope the next few are better! We plan to be staying in some mountain chalets in Slovenia and then either camping or staying in local´s homes in Croatia. Don´t worry, I´ve checked out the validity of these things...I think...and we´ll be fine. Things are going so smoothly.

Now that we´ve had our week long warmup, it´s on to some unchartered territory...

Munich, Rain, and Thankful

2007-05-29T02:33:00.000-04:00

We are in Munich. It is pouring down raining. We think we are just going to stay here for about 3 hours or so. Hit up the garden with the naked sunbathers (doubt they'll be out...nor would we want them to be) and the city centre before booking it out of Germany to Austria. We have plans to stay in Halstatt tonight, a village that has evidence of human existence about 4500 years ago. We'll see if we make it.

The other night we talked about what we are thankful for. We are realizing how blessed we are to be here. We talked about how our parents have made this possible by providing in so many ways over the years. No way we'd be here if not for their help. We talked about how big God is. He actually cares about the 1.2 million people in Prague that we have never even thought about. He cares about the homeless man sitting next to me in this internet cafe looking on ebay. He cares about almost 7 billion people alive today. And sometimes we think it's all about us.

We are also thankful for laughter and the unique sense of humor that each of us possess. We are thankful for how well things have gone and how well we have gotten along. We are thankful for each other. How fun this has been.

Well, we have some exciting plans over the next week, pending the rain. Hopefully, in a couple of days we'll be in Slovenia going down rivers in the Mountains! We need some craziness and we can't wait to go canyoning and hydrospeed. Google those words. It's gonna be tight.

Geissen, Germany and Prague, Czech Republic and a Train

2007-05-27T16:43:00.001-04:00

These have been our locations thus far. We had a great stay with my friend Phil Minnich and his wife Maria in his new home in Giessen, Germany. From there we took a day trip to a beautiful German village called Marburg. Like most German towns, it had a sweet castle overlooking the winding streets and homes built into the side of the hill.

We barely beat a large storm (really ominous looking clouds) out of Germany and boarded a 9 hour turned 15 hour train ride to Prague. Prague has been absolutely gorgeous so far. It reminds me at times of so many cities...St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Salzburg, Venice, Rome. So much character and so much life. My pictures should prove it and we spend the day here tomorrow before getting on a train (or plane as Kory always says) to Munich where we will make a quick travel day from there to Garmisch area to Salzburg.

We are getting along so well and really enjoying each other's company a lot. No one has beaten up the other and we still like each other. We trust this will continue. We are just trying to soak up the reality that we are really blessed to be here.

Until next time...goodnight from beautiful Prague.

a last minute discovery

2007-05-24T10:07:00.001-04:00

As I've done some last minute research for this trip, I've discovered what looks to be a hidden gem deeply embedded in the EU. Slovenia and its Triglav National Park look to be outstanding and lacking in tourists. We found some canyoning and hydrospeed for cheap. We found mountain chalets that you can hike up to for cheap. A country of less than 2 million with a landscape rivaling that of Glacier National Park. This is going to be incredible!