Welcome to The World of The Crazy Scotsman...Proceed With Caution

To Blog/Journal or Not To Blog/Journal...That Is The Question

2011-11-14T13:00:00.000-05:00

Well with a title like that you expect that I should break into quoting Shakespeare....but I will not. Consistent writing is obviously not one of my strong suits. So where to begin really...lots and lots of things have happen since the last time I posted to this page. My previous post was in regards to a mission trip that I took to East Asia. The trip was a total success and I made some friends that I still keep in contact with. My trip to the other side of the world was life changing. My perspective on several things changed; 1) the importance of always being on mission 2) that even under the most severe of oppressions life and the gospel always seem to flourish.So that would bring us end of July of last year. Around September I started a new journey by turning down a path that I had known about but only walked sparingly. I began dating Katie Vance around September and my feet haven't touch the floor since. I'm truly convinced now that God is and always about what is best for us. In March I (with Richard and Julie's permission) would propose to Katie and October 1st of this year we were made and declared to be husband and wife.We are just over a month into our lives as a married couple and I can confidently say the wait was well worth it. I had someone ask me why I waited til I was 29 to get married and I said, "well, God knew that I needed to wait that long" Katie is a shining example of God's grace to me. She loves me at my best and most especially at my worst...

Matthew 28:18-20

2010-05-12T11:15:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends and Family,

As you may already know, I moved to Raleigh, NC in the Fall of 2006 to attend Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in pursuit of my master’s degree. Every summer I have done the normal thing of either working for extra money or taking easy which I have grown more aware of as just plain selfish. The past year and a half has been a unique time of spiritual growth and maturity, and a great deal of repentance that has been vital to my pursuit of ministry. Southeastern has been teaching us the importance of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 where Jesus tells his followers to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit”.

I have been attending Bayleaf Baptist Church for several years now and have become involved in the College and Singles ministry there. An exciting opportunity has presented itself in the past month that I hope you can be apart of. I will be going to East Asia for 12 days during the latter part of July in order to teach English and build relationships with college students. During their summer break these students compete for spots in a week long program to polish their English speaking skills.

I am asking first and foremost that you be in prayer for the students that we will be teaching and for the team that is going. We have been given an amazing opportunity to build relationships with these students and immerse ourselves in a different culture. There is also an opportunity for you to get involved financially if you feel that the Lord is guiding you to do so. The estimated cost of the trip is $2,600. This includes airfare, housing, meals, and other expenses during the trip. If the Lord leads you to give financially to this trip, you can make your gift tax deductible by addressing the check to Bayleaf Baptist Church and addressing the memo line to Jared Lucas or if you prefer; you can send your check to me at the address below

I appreciate the prayer for me, the team, and the students that we will be coming into contact with over the summer. If you have any questions about the trip or my life here in Raleigh feel free to call or send me an email. I will be happy to answer any questions that you have, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Jared Lucas

1004 Thornrose Way

Wake Forest, NC 27587

919-457-8819

Caedmonfan82@gmail.com

www.bayleafbaptistchurch.com

Out of the Depths He Emerges...

2009-11-03T23:18:00.002-05:00

having gone a solid 9 months without any submission I forgot how therapeutic writing can be. I set mind and fingers to keyboard in the hopes get some things off my mind.

A concept that has always been on my mind is "Community" within the body of Christ. What does it look like; how do we do it? Trouble is I haven't come up with a real good answer yet I have some ideas; such as we have a mentality of coming to serve instead of being served, giving instead of receiving, loving others rather waiting to be loved. Paul tells us in Philippians 2 that we are and we should have to same mind that was in Christ, "Who though he was in the form of God didn't consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but rather he emptied himself,taking on the form of a servant."

earlier...Paul tells us..."Do nothing from rivalry or vain conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."

so from this I would take "community" to be those count others more significant than themselves..

And how is one to conduct oneself in relationship that at times seems to be merely "one-sided." My first thoughts go immediately to the 13th Chapter of 1st Corinthians in verse 4 "that Love is patient and kind, love is not envious or boastful, it is not arrogant nor is it rude, it does not insist on it's own way...my thoughts compel to think the Philippians passage as well that we are to consider other more significant than ourselves...we are to look not only our own interests of the interests of others as well.

In View: Passion Week

2009-04-07T11:46:00.001-04:00

The inspiration for this submission comes from a phone conversation I had over the weekend....

This week for Christians is at times referred to "Passion Week" the week and events of that week leading up to the arrest, crucifixion, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The gist of the conversation ended up focusing one's particular attitude of the heart. The great work by Mel Gibson "The Passion of Christ" is by far one of Hollywood's best and most realistic portrayals, but still falls short I believe that our Lord endured and suffered serving as our substitute.

The comment was made that, "How can someone say that this movie(The Passion) could and can be someone's favorite movie??" My response was simply its one of my favorites, the response was "how can you say that?", for the reasons I stated above I said, "because it captures as best as Hollywood can the savagery and brutality that Christ suffered for me."

The comment was followed by, "Well I can't watch something like because it breaks my heart to watch the portrayal of Christ get beat like that." My response to this was why does it break your heart?"

Living Out An Authentic Christian Life

2009-02-28T03:36:00.003-05:00

What can I say.....inspiration to write has been strong this week. I guess I can attribute it to the contemplative mood I've been in this week.

Now for some insight....

One thing in particular that I've been attempting to think out all the time, but especially this week is how do you live out an authentic Christian life, and furthermore what does that look like? Are there anythings that one desiring authenticity can do in addition to spending time in the word, in prayer, being in community with the body. These are things that are enumerated in Scripture.

Where my thoughts have been as well, is what constitutes a pure motive in doing to the things that God has commanded us to do through being obedient to Him. Is it enough that it is in part a conscious thought or something more required.

Another issue that I have been faced with regarding an authentic life as a Christian is this: I am perplexed by the the Christians who I know who hide behind their masks, for fear that the rest of the body will think or love them less. I've battled with this many times, and I've found the greatest joy and relief in confessing and admitting my struggles to my fellow brothers in the faith. True freedom I'm convinced is found in Christ as savior first and foremost as well as refusing to hide your sin(s) and admitting your struggle with the Body. Realizing the great power of your Savior and knowing that no mater how hard you strive to hide your sin it has been exposed to God.

I would encourage those who might read this to consider that which Derek Webb say in his album "The House Show"

"Your sins have been exposed as if they were on the 5:00 news they have been exposed to Jesus, He knows you better than your even willing to admit to yourself, But he's forgiven you, Take joy in the fact not that your sins are not real, but that are real, and that your Savior is real."

Learning to be Lonely

2009-02-24T14:39:00.003-05:00

No posting in over a month, I have some excuses for that, but why bother with excusing oneself when you can get right down to business.

I'm sure you've heard as well I have heard the to be in the ministry especially in the pastoral role whether it be Senior or Student it can and will be lonely at times. Lonely in regards to you are in the position of leadership and everyone is looking to you to know where the church or ministry is going and and what the focus or intent will be.

As the Pastor you are at the "top of the heap" so to speak, the only other person or source you have to look to is God the Holy Spirit and His guidance to you through his Word. Other than that you are alone by yourself. Now, your not alone, alone you have to body of Christ around you so your not alone in that sense of the word. But as leader you are the "Top Dog."

I say all this to say this: That's the feel of my life as of late, it has a very lonely feel to it. There are a lot of changes going on around my life: several of my friends are getting married and or engaged, and we are not as close as we used to be, through no fault on either side of the equation. Hear me when I say this is not complaining or Pining at the situation and circumstance. There are changes occurring in my life I'm currently or continuing to learn what it means to live in the present, rather than worrying about the future, I'm learning live my life as life of man of Deuteronomy 8:3; As man who doesn't live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Living out the knowledge that everything I do is an act of worship not just what I do within the four walls of the church. Living out the Christian life and all that entails out of sense of obedience and passion, rather than out of duty and rigor. The reason for the loneliness, personally I think it's God's way of preparing me for future ministry situations where I will be alone so to speak in my role as leader(if it's the Lord's will that I should be so, of course).

Through all of this I've learned that sanctification is not easy it can be at times very tough and very trying. I've been aware of this very recently, but the redeeming factor is that the essence of Truth that can be found in a Caedmon's Call song "Oh Lord Your Love" it is in this song that these words are sung:

"Oh Lord your love is new with every morning, Your faithfulness it gets me through the night, You bid me come, You know that I am weary, Your yoke is easy, your burden is light."

Grace, Peace, and Coffee.

Thoughts on the Days Events

2009-01-20T09:16:00.003-05:00

Today at 12 noon this country will usher in our 44th President. History is being made, Barack Obama will become this country's first African-American president, one aspect I'm sure of the dream of Martin Luther King, and for some a sign that this country is coming together racially and socially.

I find it funny that a few of the people that I have seen interviewed on the various networks who say that this all shows that the country is finally united and coming together. Don't think me a pessimist, but unfortunately until this country is completely under the Lordship of Christ this country will never be completely united. We will still continue to be divided along party lines. There will be those who continue to be prejudice towards him simply because of the color of his skin. It's unfortunate that for some of us in this country our valuing of a person stops and goes no further than skin deep.

As for me, at 12:00 noon Barack Obama will become my president and I will support and pray for him that he will lead us as a nation well. According to the word of God Romans 13 says that ultimately all authority is derived and is given by God and because of that fact Barack Obama is whom God has ordained to take power at this time in our country's history and we should all be ready and prepared to support him fully and be submitted to his leadership.

Moving On.....

2009-01-16T00:11:00.003-05:00

Most of us I'm sure have moved at one point or another as simply as a different apartment in the same building or as complex as to completely move a whole state away from everything that you've ever known.

Something that occurred to me the other day it struck me as unique it maybe just me but I can only help but wonder what its like to pack up and move out of the White House, within the next George W. Bush like him or not will be officially moving out of what more or less he has called his home for the past 8 years. It has to been whole unique set of feelings to be moving out of a residence such as the White House feelings that only former presidents can identify with.

I am currently in a season of moving on, this one will probably be the toughest one of my life so far, so I would ask my readership out there in the Blogosphere to keep me in your prayers as I proceed and move on to God would have for me next.

Pray that I could continually seek His face not looking to the left, right or even behind me, that my eyes would ever always be on the cross from whence I draw the strength and grace to face each day.

Knowing and Doing God's Will

2009-01-15T02:38:00.003-05:00

That is the title of my once daily devotional book, it contains short discourses and reflection statements by none other than J.I. Packer. So it has been very insightful and very thought provoking. Altogether very encouraging and helpful considering where I am now and where I've been for the last 4 months.

One thing that I have found and learned in my experience so far in life is that It is far easier to deal with adverse times than good times. With adversity we can and always look for things to get better, for the fog fade, the darkness to lift, and times to get better. With pleasant times we often times become complacent with how good we have and without warning the adversity and can spring upon us like the high tension spring of a mouse trap; so fast that we never knew what hit us until we are in the thick of it, and all we can do is ride out the storm. There is comfort in the storm because God never leaves nor forsakes us.

I have also found that while we are in the midst of the "good times" we always claim that this is God's Will for our lives and that things couldn't be better. However, as soon as things start to turn bad how quick we are to say, "now what did I do to deserve such times and these?"

Just think, could it be possible that our Sovereign God uses both Good Times and Bad Times according to his will and for whatever purpose he had ordained?

I think so, so next time you are in the midst of the storm remember that God is still there, you may not feel or sense him there, but he is.

Just Trust

Grace, Peace, and Coffee to you all.

Quotes for Reflection

2009-01-14T13:57:00.002-05:00

In the past couple of days I've been using a resource that I used a lot in my Carson Newman days for papers and as funny as it sounds Instant Messenger away messages. The resource is quoteland.com.

Here are a few that I have run by that I found very insightful and gave pause for reflection.

Blaise Pascal:

"In faith there is enough light for those who want to believe and enough shadows to blind those who don't."

"Human beings must be known to be loved, but God must be loved to be known."

C.S. Lewis:

"There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, 'Thy will be done' and those to whom God says, 'All right, then, have it your way."

Augustine of Hippo:

"There remains a restlessness within us, until we find our rest in God."

John Calvin:

"No man is excluded from calling upon God, the gate of salvation is set open unto all men: neither is there any other thing which keepeth us back from entering in, save only our own unbelief."

Wanting Resolution.......

2009-01-10T03:39:00.002-05:00

This week has been a hard one on the mental faculties, I feel I've been 15 rounds with the champ and I'm wearied and tired. So tired, that things are beginning to happen in my life that I'm afraid that will have irreparable results.

Like a wound that is bleeding out of control, I'm hoping to find the tourniquet that will bring relief.

This is plea for grace, a plea for forgiveness(actual forgiveness, not lip service) a call for love just as Christ has loved us.

I must confess that anger has gotten the best of me at times it sin, I confess that I have been fighting for something, something that was special to me, something that I want back, but at this point in my life God has it in his pleasing perfect will for me to grow on a individual basis.

A Song for Reflection....

2009-01-09T13:52:00.002-05:00

Nothing fancy or insightful today just the lyrics to a song that has always blessed me and remind me our Great God who is Mighty to Save. It's times in my life like this that I love that I have songs like this to run back to.

"Rock of Ages"
by: Augustus Toplady

Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.

Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.

Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.

While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And See Thee on Thy Judgement Throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.

Anxiety Muddles the Mind

2009-01-05T15:51:00.002-05:00

This from my devotional:

Text: Job 38:1-2

I find that the more earnest and sensitive a believer is, the more likely he or she is to be hung up somewhere about guidance. Why is this? we ask. The answer does not seem to be far to seek. The source of anxiety is threefold: a desire for guidance, uncertainty of about how to get it, and fear of the consequences of not getting it. Such anxiety has an unhappy way of escalating. Anxious people get allured by any and every of certainty that offers itself, no matter how irrational; they become vulnerable to strange influences and do zany things. Over the past 150 year there was been a most unhelpful buildup of tension to a point where it muddles minds, darkens counsel, and obstructs maturity in a way that is Spirit-quenching, and scandalous.

This past year I can really identify with this and totally agree. Anxiety can be crippling and it can overwhelm you to the extent that it leads to full blown fear. Unbridled fear can make you do anything in an attempt to eliminate the said fear. The worst of times is when the fear will not dissipate. The redeeming factor is the God of this Universe who is sovereign in all things and the true friends within the body of Christ that can and will come to the aid of those who are suffering.

Let Us Begin Again.....

2009-01-01T13:05:00.004-05:00

It's the start of a new year for a lot of people it means a fresh start and clean slate an opportunity to kick an old habit or lose some weight. Sadly, for a lot of those same people the "newness" of this year will slowly fade, the resolutions will fall by the wayside, and they will be left with the same old day to day drudgery.

Now you might be saying, "Gosh Jared what way to start off your 2009 blogging." I would agree with those who might be thinking that, but here comes the redeeming factor in all of this.

We as Christians however at least those who are living in the victory of the cross of Jesus Christ always have a fresh start, its called GRACE, how awesome is that. The fact and truth that you don't have to wait till the start of a New Year to change. The result of the Life, Death, and Resurrection of Christ we can be resolved, renewed, and restored whenever and wherever you might be.

Praise Be To God for this truth.

Psalms 8:3-4

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?

How awesome that the God who did in fact create the moon and stars and as big as he is pauses and is mindful of us.

Praying for Penn of Penn and Teller

2008-12-28T21:23:00.002-05:00

Original Post is found Ed Stetzer's blog:

Watch this video of Penn from the act Penn and Teller, and his thoughts on receiving a bible.

Here

Oh that we were all like this particular witness who shared with Penn.

Traveling the Well-Worn Path

2008-12-28T20:44:00.004-05:00

One thing I've found in the journey thus far I find that the path that we travel as Christians as well worn; not only by those who have gone before us, but sadly by our own two feet. I can freely admit to all who would read this offering, that many times before I've walked past a familiar tree or rock along the way that I can swear I've seen before. Sadly, truth be known I have seen that tree or that rock.

How we come by that familiar rock or tree is that we get it within ourselves that we know the way and can get to where we are going without the help we so desperately need. So despite the fact that we have a very knowledgeable guide(the Holy Spirit) and a very detailed map(The Word) we strike out on our own and the inevitable eventually happens and we are lost and unable to find the way.

Luckily enough we have a compassionate guide who loves us and is not dismayed by the fact that we have delayed our arrival to our final destination, who will come and find us right where we are, and put us squarely back on the path towards to end goal.

I've been re-tracing my steps along this Well-Worn Path as of late, passing familiar landmarks and taking joy in the fact that I serve a gracious and compassionate God and Savior knowing that it is not bad thing that I am re-traveling this part of the path so long as I am now a better man and servant by it. I only hope that by glancing back if only for moment at where I've been I'll be encouraged and know that it is by God's grace that I've been restored and with his power and help I won't go back to where I've been.

A Time of Contemplation.....

2008-12-04T12:52:00.003-05:00

Yes I know this submission is out of no where considering my last offering was sometime back in August.

Considering the road that I have traveled over the past 2 1/2 months a lot has transpired. Many things that I wish hadn't happen, but I can't help that now. However there are some things that have happen that I'm glad that I was able to be apart of.

In the words of Andrew Osenga from his song "Hold the Light" I would agree with him that "it's been a long year, like sleepless night." These past months have seemed to be 3 times as long as they usually feel.

I have repented and asked forgiveness for a lot of things, the trouble is making this spirit of mine wrapped in this flesh believe that forgiveness and rest in it, (really rest in it) and be content.

Being content and at peace with the way things are for me right is easier said than done. I'll just be honest its a struggle. There is one thing that more or less is constantly on my mind, and all the time I wish that I could have this "Thing" back. However, I both know and believe that God's will be done and however that plays out is fine with me.

These past two months or so have been spent determining yet again how I can best serve the kingdom believing that I've been called to vocational ministry service, and at the same time determining if vocational service is what I am in fact called to. I've always felt drawn to Student Ministry and Worship. That's what I'm pursuing as of this submission.

This has also been a time of contemplation given the choices that lay before me, trouble is of the choices I have both are equally good.

Have It Your Way: Worship

2008-08-06T13:26:00.002-04:00

This second post will focus of worship within the church.

The debate that rages within the church is what kind of worship will be used. There are those who see the old and favored Hymns of the faith as outdated and boring. Therefore they choose to avoid churches which fall into that category.

What is worship is it performance for the congregation by the Choir and Musicians? or performance for the King? We should be conscious of what worship was designed and created for. It was created and designed for the enjoyment of Lord. We should sing praises to Him whatever they may be, with all our might.

If Nothing else we should worship the Lord for the work that he's done in our lives.

Have It Your Way: Dating the Church

2008-08-04T11:31:00.003-04:00

This potential blogging series comes from a discussion I had yesterday morning.

We @ Bayleaf Baptist Church and the College and Young Adults class have small groups known as wePods. The name comes from the concept that this culture and the people in it have become very "I" centered and cause Ipods are so cool . We are attempting and succeeding to come together as the body of Christ patterning the meeting of these groups after the early church as described in Acts 2:42.

The title comes from the commitment issues that we have been having recently. People having been using wePod and Wednesday nights as a substitute for the fellowship that is meant to be had on and during Sunday Mornings. Now for some I can understand, being that our church very traditional in terms of it's liturgy and discipline. People will come to our wePods and our Wednesday Night but when it comes to Sunday mornings they are no where to be found.

I believe that Bible clearly speaks to that of serving the body rather than being served by the the body. In fact the verse that sticks out in my mind that is usually applied around Christmas time but should be practiced year round is: "It is better to give than to receive."

All this to say be committed to a local body wherever that might be and serve that body. Don't simply "date" the church for it's good things then fail to show cause you find some parts to be boring or way too traditional.

Back From the Black Hole....

2008-08-02T08:55:00.001-04:00

Well I'm back from the far reaches of cyber-space. Honestly I think I can say that my New Years Resolution to post once a week came to naught a long time ago.

Yesterday was my last day running myself ragged working 2 jobs. This summer I've been pulling double duty by working as part of the Carpentry Crew on the Facilities Management Staff @ SEBTS and working UPS.

So needless to say it been less than restful summer but I've managed to hang in there. We start the fall semester in a week and a half and personally I'm ready to get back to into a routine and schedule. The new semester always brings with it a fresh start so to speak.

On the journey of faith side of things. The analogy of the potter and the clay is a good description of my life. However in my case give the lump of clay a mind of it's own and that would be an even more accurate description. A constant war between the flesh and the spirit. The lesson learned and relearned is to ultimately bring everything that I am under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. As part of my daily time in the word Rebekah and I have been cruising' steadily through the book of Romans and its been a blessing and treat every step of the way. We both we're marveling the other day @ how well the Apostle Paul presents his argument and how well he presents evidence for the validity of his argument.

As for Rebekah and I as of this post we've been dating for and to use a 'Saved By The Bell' term going "steady" for right at a little over 4 months. I must say it has been some of the best times of my life. However, it has not been without its struggles and difficulties which I am happy to say have only lead to our relationship getting stronger,closer and deeper. I love every minute that I get to spend with Her and her Daughter, they have to be two of my favorite people in the world.

Amazed By Grace

2008-05-14T10:49:00.003-04:00

This might be a recycled title, and if it is good we should never ever treat grace as common place something that we tuck in our back pocket. Christ didn't go to the cross and endure all that he suffered for nothing. Sadly, alot of the evangelical community I feel don't have a real grasp on this concept. And if they do I hope that this would serve as a good reminder/refresher/encourager.

We treat the concept of grace and forgiveness sins as a elementary school permission slip to sin. If we/you have true regenerate heart your attitude towards sin should be one of waging war against it hating when you do do it, and avoiding it at all costs. Grace is there as an assurance of forgivness not as a means of permission. The concept, that we can do anything that merits even an ounce of righteousness is foolish. I for one used to be this person. Who thought that I could be good and do good deeds can merit me righteousness or favor with God. The realization was so relieving because the previous lifestyle was tiresome cause you worked to so hard to please God.

The ultimate realization, that we are totally depraved and there is no good within us and we cannot do anything enough to make us good and it is only through the shed blood of Christ that we can even hope to attain righteousness. In Christ God is already pleased with us, through Christ's sacrifice he views us as he does his son...Blameless....provided that we have confessed our sins and believe on and in the name of Christ.

I for one am amazed by grace. There is so much wrath that I deserve and right so, and there are so many things that I have been given that I don't deserve as well.

I'm grateful and thankful the covenant faithfulness of God my King.

Where The Time Goes.....I Haven't A Clue

2008-05-03T14:49:00.005-04:00

My sentiment is exactly as the title says....Where has time gone the last time I was with you all (the Blogosphere) it was the end of March and the crispness of cool was still in the air at least is was here in Merry ole Wake Forest.

Well, where do I begin, there have been several developments in the this seminarian's life. We're in the last two weeks of the semester and we are full speed ahead at maximum warp. I've been as late really at study in the Epistles especially Corinthians in which God really revealed to me that ministry is to be about proclaiming one thing and that one thing is Christ and him crucified (ref. 1 Cor 1:22). That we should glorify God in all things even in our bodies because we are not our own that we were bought with a price (ref. 1 Cor 6:19-20). I have also been in study around abouts 1 John in which God is showing the evidences of those who truly know him. In recent weeks here @ Southeastern in chapel we've heard from the likes of Johnny Hunt who for one never disappoints, and James MacDonald who offered a message of perseverance in ministry from the text of 2 Timothy 4.

And, The most significant of all the events that have taken is that God has blessed me with the woman I think and I am confident is the one that I have been waiting for. Her name is Rebekah(yes, spelled like the Hebrew a plus!!). She is native of Wake Forest and North Carolina(my momma always wanted me to find a Carolina Girl). Our relationship is so unique and we fit together and compliment each other so well that it can only be the blessing of God. Our relationship is also special is because Christ is our treasure first and foremost and our love for each other flows out of our love for Christ. She is so special to me and it is funny there are things about her that I can remember praying to God asking him for. As of this posting we've been dating for a little over a month. I couldn't ask for more.

Way To Go StrongBad

2008-03-31T10:09:00.001-04:00

One word Dwayne!!!!!!

lots of laughs will ensue

SBemail #192

Work Out Your Faith

2008-03-20T10:21:00.004-04:00

Last week was midterm week here @ SEBTS so I was unable to keep up with my new years pledge: a post/ a week.

The title for this post comes from life in living color. I've been in the word as of late and have really been giving a lot of thought on the matter of saving faith what that truly looks like and is. I was really struck by a message by John Piper who during the course of his sermon series on unbelief said that "walking an aisle", "signing a card", "praying a prayer" does not get it done in terms of faith that is salvific. Where my thought process has been taking me lately is wondering whether or not my faith is more than just some "prayer prayed" or some "aisle walked"

That saving faith is a matter of heart and mind not just the mind. When you truly treasure, love, and trust Jesus that is when your faith becomes salvific.

Fighting the Fight.....

2008-03-05T01:07:00.005-05:00

With such titles as Your Best Life Now, and Become A Better You Which preach of a Gospel of "Think happy thoughts and you and Jesus will be best buddies and everything will be alright" It's wonder why so many us are and get discouraged from time to time. (But, why I thought that if I thought good, positive thoughts about my faith that I would be secure and life will be easy).(I know I'm picking on a single individual here but it's so easy sometimes, and if I'm wrong let be proven so)

*Snap Back to Reality* (for all you Slim Shady fans)

The almighty inspired word of God doesn't refer to this life as a "fight of faith"(1 Tim 6:12) and mentions the likes of armor such as shield of faith, and helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:16-17a) Just for kicks. The Christian life is not easy I know the more advance theologians in my particular part of the blogosphere would say something along the lines of "Elementary my dear Lucas" but I speak of these things only because of recent experience. I've recently been seeking the face of God and asking him to show me my heart and the deepest and darkest parts of it. Asking him to reveal any sin that I might still be harboring within. He did not fail in doing so. But at the same time the Enemy was working double time and vigorously at that to try and convince me that the conviction that the Holy Spirit was bringing about was no big deal.

In the end it was my desire to be right fellowship and once again on the straight and narrow path led to to repentance, confession and forgiveness and grace.

The Christian Life is a fight but you are not helpless in this war against the enemy and unbelief

-just word of encouragement from my own life this early A.M.

Meaning and Significance

2008-02-17T23:18:00.009-05:00

I can remember a very bitter time in my life. The time was during my years of study @ Carson-Newman. Mind you that all that time I was single and searching for that one woman that would be the one with which I would spend the rest of my life with. 2 1/2 or 3 years in I really can't recall the night that my friend Whipple and I were having one our in-depth talks. I can remember vividly talking about my disdain that I had yet to find the one that I was to spend the rest of my life with. I recall vehemently expressing my disgust at the false notion that I felt that everyone around me was finding success with regard to relationships when all I could find was rejection and "lets just be friends". Mind you actual attempts at "love" and relationships were few and far between but the ones that were attempted ended in the aforementioned results.

It was during one of these talks that Whipple suggested that I listen to a song that at the time had just recently been recorded and released by Derek Webb a song called "Wedding Dress" I listened to it and thought how cute its talk about a man and wife. How sadly was I wrong, only to after many years of listening to and falling in love with the tune, and actually learning how to play it recently did I finally discover and realize the truth & significance behind it.

What my friend was so wisely trying to show me is to view and have Jesus Christ as the ultimate lover of my soul before anything else. As it is referred to in the song and as Derek explains on another album called the "The House Show" because of my unbelief in the gospel, the word that Christ saves me and also says that God will provide for me in every facet of my life I would seek to be woo(ed) by lovers less wild attempting to substitute them or whatever it was for Christ. So first I should make Christ the center of my life and then other things would follow as blessing from the Lord.

I can say now more than ever and without any doubt that I finally have Christ in view as the ultimate and wildest lover of my soul.

Thank you Adam for starting me on the long journey so many moons ago. I'm finally walking with Christ in the right way.

A Charge For Daily Encouragement

2008-02-09T16:01:00.000-05:00

The source of this post comes straight from my time with"The Word and The Father" of all places...

I've being reading steadily through books of the bible as of late. I read from both the OT and NT more or less just I just pick something that I'm really interested in or really want to read. I started with the Psalms for my OT book and have been reading 2 a day. The psalms are awesome such a sweet picture of our savior is captured between the pages. Meanwhile for my NT book I started with a Pauline epistle of Galatians and was just reminded that Christ is set us free and in Christ we are free so why on earth would we want to return to the yoke of slavery that is check-list Christianity. Which in fact if you think about it, it's not Christianity but rather legalism.

I've been reading as late last week through the book of Hebrews which is yet another awesome book. The gospel; the good news of the redemption that is in Christ so apparent in the book it has blessed me so much. To know that Christ himself is so much more able to help me when I am struggling against temptation cause he himself was tempted and yet without sinning.

But, all that to say I read over very significant thing about what it means that we are the body of Christ and we should be involved in each other's lives on a daily basis. Its come from Hebrews 3.12&13

"Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart leading you to fall away from God. But, exhort one another every day, as long as it is called "today" that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin." (ESV)

The writer here is clearly calling its audience to daily encouragement and involvement in the lives of fellow believers. Sin is very deceitful. It can really mess you up. It can lead you into places and states of mind that are really hard to get back from. However with "daily" encouragement and accountability on is able to become and strong weapon for the cause of Christ.

The best thing that you can do is to surround yourself with good, rock-solid friends who are sure to keep you on the straight and narrow.

Get LOST buddy

2008-01-30T15:33:00.000-05:00

Well the moment that all us LOST fans have been waiting for is here. The first episode of season 4 is almost upon us. Finally we'll start making progress towards getting questions answered: Who's on the other end of the Satellite phone?, Who or what is Jacob?, What's Walt doing back?, How is it that Locke is not dead after being shot by Ben?, Did Charlie in fact die?(he can hold his breath for long time if you remember)

The only unfortunate thing is that I'll have to catch on ABC.com video player cause my duties @ UPS prevent me from watching any Prime Time television, in other words I miss all the good shows even the news for crying out loud; I guess that's where reading a newspaper comes in handy.

I had myself a "Come to Jesus meeting" early last week in which the Holy Spirit really got a hold of me, finally getting my attention( in an Apostle Paul/Damascus Rd way) about my attitude towards schoolwork, reading, studying. Those of you who are really close to me know the story behind all this. Those of you who would like to know feel free to e-mail me and I'll be glad to fill you in. May God get the glory in all this including my sincere change of attitude, repentance, and study habits. The ministry and training for that are both two serious issues not to be taken or entered into lightly. That was just one of things that the Holy Spirit made very apparent to me.

In all of this I am most thankful for the unconditional grace and mercy that was bought for me through Christ's sacrifice, as well as my rock-solid friends (you know who you are) that were there to talk things out and pray with me @ a moment's notice.

Late Night Marketing

2008-01-21T02:29:00.000-05:00

Up late because I can't sleep or I just can't seem to get all the college student knocked out of my system. Anyways, all that said to mention that I find commercials are apparently geared to the people who are turning on the TV after getting it on and extremely overweight individuals. One commercial after another for natural male enhancement and ads for fat burners. What has this world come to.

Celebration of Discipline has been great thus far. I've been reading through slowly for couple of reasons: 1. I'm A.D.D. (seriously) I have trouble sitting in one spot for an extended period of time and doing something requires me to sit still. 2. I'm reading it slowly to garner all that I can. I must confess more emphasis must be placed upon reason #1

I am garnering a lot thus far. It was very refreshing to read the chapter on the "Discipline of Prayer" and be reminded that all too often are prayers can become all too selfish. We pray asking know what God's will is for "our" lives. I've come to understand that God will work his will and purpose irregardless of us, and that our prayers should be more along the lines of Let God's will be done and give me the privilege of being apart of what you are doing.

As for being apart of God's Will: I have possibly the amazing opportunity laid before me of going to East Asia to work on a college campus teaching English( I'm guessing conversational). I've always had a desire for short-term missions and my yes for long term has always been on the table. Essentially if God's calls me I'll go. Please all of you who read this be praying for sense of confirmation that I am to go. As well as the money that a trip of this magnitude requires.

There have been a lot of thing happening lately, Classes start back up this Thursday so I will be buckle your hat on time

But I promise to keep up to date with fresh fodder atleast one if not more post(s) a week.

Gone the way of the Dodo

2008-01-07T11:33:00.000-05:00

Well as I planned I was back at running and working out this morning. It didn't take long for me to realize that if you don't keep at a weight loss/exercise plan the endurance you've built gradually decides to go on vacation.

On the reading front I've not even finished the 2nd chapter yet and I've already been hit my the mack truck of truth that is contained with the pages of "Celebration of Discipline" . I've already been able to identify myself within pages. Foster talks about how we often deal with slavery of ingrained sin. Foster says, "We launch a frontal attack....We rely on our willpower determination.....the struggle is all in vain and we again find ourselves once again morally bankrupt.

As Emmet Fox is quoted, "As soon as you resist mentally to a undesirable or unwanted circumstance you thereby endow it with more power...power with which it will use against you" once you've depleted the strength of your determination.

It makes sense that a person shouldn't be able to resist sin on his own just like attaining salvation by oneself....simply impossible without the help of Jesus Christ's sacrifice through the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Late Nights, Crazy Things

2008-01-03T03:03:00.001-05:00

I tend to do crazy things when I stay up late at night. like writing on this joker, most of my entries tend to be late at night way past 12:00 in the AM.

Well I can remember one of my goals that I made for 2007 and that goal was to read more. Well except for school; I would say that I didn't accomplish that goal. Well as Martin Luther (reformer) said, "Here I stand." I'm renewing that goal this year and hope achieve and surpass the goal.

For some strange reason (we'll just brag on the Holy Spirit) I feel impressed to pick the the Celebration of Discipline up again which I pseudo-read @ Carson Newman for Spiritual Growth and Development.

I also would have to extend "big ups" to Feldman his cooperative study made refreshed Foster's work and my need to read it again.

Bowl Mania

2008-01-02T00:18:00.000-05:00

Well sports fans the 2007-2008 Bowl season is almost in the books and once again the message has been shouted loud and clear.

THE SEC IS THE MOST DOMINANT CONFERENCE IN AMERICA

as of this post the SEC is 6-2 in bowls played so far

Home Again, Home Again

2007-12-26T09:43:00.000-05:00

I don't know if I've mentioned it here within the confines of my blog but those of you who know me know that I love my family, I love being home. The warm and familiar surroundings of everything that I grew knowing and loving. Sadly, I'm employed with UPS to provided my livelihood which in turn translates to brief and abbreviated breaks only last few or so days.

I can now identify with my parents and how hard it was for us as a family to leave my grandparents home and drive back to Knoxville.

Interesting element to this Christmas, this was the first time in awhile that I was able to go to church @ FBC Concord. To be honest I felt like an outsider my time spent there both Sunday morning and Monday afternoon confirmed for me that Bayleaf is where my church home is at this point in time. I can't fault the people cause as the saying goes: "Out of sight, Out of Mind" I didn't go totally unnoticed there were a few people who noticed that I was there, but it did not have the feel that Bayleaf does.

In Other News:

I seem to be managing one post a month. New's Years Goal #1 write and post more, #2 continued weight loss. #3 read more

The Final Push

2007-11-27T22:54:00.000-05:00

Greetings to the Blogosphere; I trust that everyone had great Thanksgiving spending it with family and friends I know I did.

We are in the home stretch here @ Southeastern and with that a great amount of apathy starts to set in. My attitude is one of wanting to be done with the semester. Please be so kind as to keep me in mind in the next few weeks as I press toward to finish.

I have one major project to get done before the end of the semester and few tests to study for. Nothing I can't handle but still a lot to get done.

I totally different front the possibility of my parents returning to the state of their birth is at their doorstep. My dad comes to Fayetteville this Friday to interview for a job with the Dept. of Transportation. I would covet your prayers for this opportunity that would put my family less than 2 hours away from me here in Wake Forest, as opposed to 6 hours in Knoxville.

Thats all for now, I'm sure to be back on here with more content later

Moral Activists, Gay Bashers, or Lovers of All People

2007-11-08T14:46:00.000-05:00

Well fall/winter has finally decided to make its presence known here in the late weeks of October in to November. I can remember when the seasons changed gradually now they seem to do it all in one night or all in one week. The change is seasons also brings to mind how constant God is amid all this change. The weather, the leaves, it all changes but there is God constant as He was yesterday and as constant as He will be tomorrow. There is strength and comfort to be found in that statement.

Well the title to this commentary stems from a movie I watched earlier in the week. Called "I Now Pronounce You Larry and Chuck". The synopsis of the story is two straight guys pretend to be gay in a effort to insure Larry's (played by Kevin James) kids are provided for by insurance should he die. The problem was that a change in the beneficiary could only made within a year of a significant event; i.e. marriage, death etc.

Anyways all that that to say during the course of the movie the they attend this party that is raising money for AIDS research. Upon leaving the party they are confronted by a group of protesters shouting things like: "Gay is not the Way" or "Faggots will burn."

I'm of the conviction that watching movies is a good way to perceive how people view the world. Watching this movie and this scene in the particular shows me that the vast majority of the world thinks and views Christians and the Church as nothing more than moral activists and gay bashers. Sadly I think this label is too accurate. Instead of being the vessels of love that we are called to be we've become insecure legalists and we've drawn the lines in very close, and said your either this or your out.

This is not a condonment of the homosexual lifestyle....No...let me be very frank in saying that. I believe that the homosexual lifestyle to be a sin not matter however you try to color it. Do I believe that is a greater sin. No all sin is sin and the couple in a heterosexual relationship outside of marriage are just as guilty. Do I believe that Christian loses his or her salvation upon becoming gay. I would say no, but I would have hard time fleshing out how a Christian can live in a lifestyle of sin and truly honor God. I would also call into question whether or not this person was truly saved to begin with.

All of this said is more or less be a plea to the Church and us as Christians we should love those that are struggling with probably one of the greatest deceptions of all. We should be the first to show them that true contentment and fulfilment is in Christ alone.

Wow want a mouthful, All that said, its a really funny movie if your needing a laugh from two of the funniest actors out there definitely pick this one up.

Weight Loss and Other Things....

2007-10-24T14:15:00.000-04:00

Well its been an action packed couple of weeks thus far. Definently a few surprises were beheld concerning my midterms in both Theology and Bible Exposition. The results of my theology midterm have to be the best on any test that I've taken here at seminary thus far. I was so relieved cause I left the classroom with the feeling that I failed the thing outright.

Bible Exposition was a tough from the first question to the last question so when I managed a C when I thought I failed that one as well.

On the weight loss front I've been cheating a little with regard to eating out, but surprisingly enough only gained a marginal amount back. As of right now I weigh in at 281 lbs.

On the theology and ministry front I was made aware of a very interesting interview with Joel Osteen on 60 Minutes the CBS news program. If you are not sure or want very clear example on where Osteen stands then I invite you to watch this video.

A New Look

2007-10-11T14:28:00.000-04:00

A new look, hope all my readership enjoys

Convergent Conference Download,and other things

2007-10-10T13:41:00.000-04:00

Where have I been??? To be perfectly honest I can't say I've had plenty of stuff that I could write about. The act of sitting down and typing it out has been a foreign concept to me. School and work keep pretty well occupied.

First things of many things to talk about. How about them Tennessee Vols puttin' a hurtin' on those poodles...I mean.. Bulldogs of Georgia. Just goes to show ya when you come to the house of 109,000 you better put your hat on and come to play.

Secondly, I think now being 3 weeks removed from the Convergent Conference I can give a synopsis of what went down and what was discussed. Believe me there was a ton of stuff said and let just put forward that my synopsis will not do it justice.

however you can go to Southeastern's website and link up with the resources; or go to iTunes and search for the Southeastern Podcast.

In the first session J.D. Greear spoke from Acts 16 and spoke about the example of the types of people you might and will have in your churches and the ways to best minister to each category. He emphasized that We can no longer look at evangelizing America different from the the way we look at evangelizing the Nations

He stressed on 3 key points on what Ministry should look like:

I. Ministry of Mercy is Necessary for Every Church
A. To be a follower of Jesus is not something that you should have to tell people it should be evident in your life.

II. The Gospel must remain Central
A. People must hear the gospel to be saved.
B. All change that last comes from the gospel

III. To follow Jesus is to go Cross-Culture

The second of these sessions had us sitting in under one of greatest minds Ed Stetzer. He preached and gave his talk from the text of Luke 24:46-49. In his talk he mentioned that 89% of churches are not growing through healthy evangelistic methods. Stetzer says that there is an emergent church because of the church of North America has become ineffective for the most part. Stetzer said that there are many things that can solve this problem of ineffectiveness. He said the solution is ultimately found in scripture and metioned the following 3 solutions:

I. The Centrality of the Cross

A. The gospel does not mean preach "Get Saved" every week.

B. A motivation for innovation cannot be birthed from a loss of confidence in the Gospel.

II. Focus on the Message

A. Your message must be repentance and forgiveness of sin.

B. This is not a one time thing but a lifestyle that must be lived out.

III. The Importance of Witness

A. John 20:21, Acts 1:6-7

The third session we beheld Mark Driscoll for points on his talk I will have to point you to the podcast cause I was so concentrated on listening that I didn't take very good notes.

This also applies to the 4th session given to us by Dr. Akin.

The Fifth and final session was given to us by Dr. Alvin Reid. He student favorite here at Southeastern. Dr. Reid just jumped right in with a breakdown and analysis of the Convential Church versus the Emergent Church.

I. Convential Christianity
A. Strengths
1. A strong biblical conviction
2. A passion evangelism
3. A passion missions
4. Remained firm on major moral issues
5. A large economic base.

B. Weakness
1. Somethings need and must be renewed
a. Evangelism effectiveness among the unchurched
b. A healthy balance between what must never change
and what needs to change.
c. View of the arts
d. Programmatic ministry
e. Christian subculture
f. Entitlementalism - Dr. Reid coined word
g. Institutionalism

II. The Emergent Church
A. Strengths
1. sees there is problem
2. engages the culture

B. Weakness
1. Antinomian tendencies
a. lack of emphasis on doctrine(some deny doctrine)
b. Missional without being intentional
c. disrespect toward the modern church

III. The Convergent/Emerging Church
1. Missional Worship
a. I live to worship God.
2. Missional Theology
3. Missional Ethics
a. based on "Missio Dei"
4. Missional Evangelism
5. Missional Lifestyle.

There you have it; once again I say this is not a comprehensive synopsis for treasure trove of all that was said again iTunes: search Southeastern Podcast or go to Southeastern's website

Proclaiming The Name of Christ

2007-08-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

As a result of being in right fellowship with Christ; the Holy Spirit has made me sensitive to those around me and has renewed my attitude towards being a reflection of Christ and reaching the lost that work around me.

On that note, I had an interesting encounter with a guy last night who goes to Southeastern either the college or seminary I'm not sure. He strikes everyone he talks to as very odd and at times creepy. He talks to people in the familiar that he has yet to introduce himself to. I say this because he talks to me and I don't even know his name. That being said he asked friend of mine at work whether not he was Christian. (before I continue he is Christian) He asked in such an abrasive way that my buddy was felt uncomfortable even though his response was an affirmative one.

The guy then turns to me and says for the longest time he wasn't sure that I was a believer cause he didn't know whether or not I went to seminary. He then asked; (again I remind you that I don't know his name he's never introduced himself) if I went to Southeastern my response was yes, and he said, "You should tell everyone that, and a lot at that." He then walked away started to work scanning packages.

I say all that to say this: I told my friend afterwards that I try to tell others that I'm believer in Jesus Christ and what he's done for me in my life before I tell them where I'm going to school and what I'm studying. As well just because an individual goes to a Christian or Bible college/school doesn't mean that person is a Christian. The story has been told time and time again from the Southeastern chapel pulpit about a number of seminary students walk forward during a chapel service and accepted to Christ.

To tell someone that you go a bible college or are attending seminary does not prompt the average person to ask about the saving knowledge of Christ though I will agree it can open the door I just think that your testimony about how Christ has changed your life is a better wait to witness to those around you.

Into the swing.....

2007-08-23T09:05:00.000-04:00

As of today 1 week of classes down, several more to go. I must say I'm glad to be back at school cause it brings such a structure and schedule to the day and week that keeps me on my toes and keeps me from boredom.

Well as is my custom as of late updating you on my quest to get fit and lose weigh as of this morning's workout and weigh-in. I currently sit at 295 lbs thats a total of 45 lbs over almost a 3 month period.

I read an awesome article for theology by John Stott. I'll try to get on here within a couple of days to write about and discuss what was read cause it was a very engaging read.

Let Games Begin Year 2

2007-08-15T13:31:00.000-04:00

Well its that time again.....As of tomorrow its back to the books and back to the hours of study. This semester should offer a lot of blogging fodder with classes such as Theology and Bible Exposition and Hebrew. I will and should have a lot to discuss

Until then........

Grace and Peace to You All

Getting Slim, Getting Wise

2007-08-09T11:47:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure that I have mentioned it here but for the past 2 months or so I've been sticking to healthy diet and workout regime that has resulted in the loss of over 25 lbs. I currently sit at 304 lbs. with much lose still ahead of me.

My overall goal is to get rid of the spare tire known only as my gut of a stomach and to weigh somewhere around 275 to 285. I'm doing this in part for my own well being as well for my future wife and family. In part that I will live to see those days and the days beyond. Weight gain and weight problems have a alway been a struggle for me and my immediate family with the exception of a brother which at some points we wondered if he was truly adopted( j/k).

I take time to mention is now or again to ask for prayer school for me starts a week from today and my request would be that I be disciplined enough to maintain my workout schedule and diet as well excel in my studies as well

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
2 Timothy 2.15 (ESV)

Growing in Christ

2007-08-02T12:43:00.000-04:00

The past two weeks have been a real growing experience for me and my walk with the Lord. On multiple occasions I had posted how I was on the mend in regards to my walk with Christ. Unfortunately within the span of a few days I would return to the "ways of the flesh" as the Apostle Paul would put it. What I failed to see that all my attempts were of my own striving. I came to the realization through the wise words of one of my new friends in Josh Woodall he said something like or to the effect of that there is no good in us whatsoever and that any good is that of Jesus Christ. An that any attempt to correct my walk would fail ultimately cause that it was without the help of Christ.

My attitude and my relationship with others changed some much because finally and for the first time my relationship with Christ was where and what is was supposed to be and that being an authentic one.

I owe my growth to God's word and devotion by Oswald Chamber's My Utmost for His Highest

Culture Current Worship

2007-07-15T15:08:00.000-04:00

Greetings to all you members of the blog sphere.....well my network of bloggers at least. I submit this for discussion and thought this afternoon.

Today as sat in Sunday morning worship we sang two familiar songs one was "I Will Call Upon The Lord" and the other was "Shine Jesus Shine." We took and sang these two songs at a incredibly slow tempo if you ask me; slower than I'm used to. I'm a musician....well I like to think of myself as one; as a person who has led worship on many different occasions and I can tell you from first-hand experience that the style of the music has an effect on people. The music you pick and play will either energize them or bore and depress them.

I find that the majority of worship in our churches is bored and played out. There are a slight few that have a mixture and worship in those churches is exciting and great. I know and will admit that the majority of churches have to consider the makeup of their congregations. Consider any fast paced song that you think of and slowing it down and even removing two maybe even three of the instruments(guitars, drums, and bass) used to originally record it and replacing them with a piano and organ. This is done so that the older and more influential members will be happy and want to sing that Sunday. Still I have to sit and think: Why do we worship through singing?......is it for our enjoyment and pleasure, or do really grasp the concept that it is God the Father to whom we are singing.

Don't get me wrong I'm not for the removal of hymns there are some outstanding pieces of music that I would cry if we never sang them again: "Come Thou Fount", "O For Thousand Tongues","How Great Thou Art." These are only a few that have awesome truths contained within in them.

I think that it was do us some good to consider the culture and time that we're in when we put our minds to doing worship.

A song like "Trading My Sorrows" at a slow tempo doesn't come off sounding too joyful.

Confessions of an Amateur Believer Review

2007-07-10T02:16:00.000-04:00

Title: Confessions of an Amateur Believer
Author: Patty Kirk
Genre: Christian, Faith
Rating: (1-5) - 5

Review:

Confessions of an Amateur Believer by Patty Kirk is a brief glimpse into the life of the author and how she goes from unbelief to the faith of a young adult to struggling with owning her faith to the deepest, darkest hours of questioning whats the point of having faith wondering whether or not the promises of God told of in the bible were true. This book approaches the Faith Journey in a down to earth way that everyone who reads this work can at some point identify with the author and take comfort in the notion that they are not the first to experience struggle with knowing what they believe and why they believe it.

Personal Word:

I loved every moment of this book.....there were times where I could put myself in the author's shoes and clearly identify with the struggle.

I recommend this book to any and all who wish to be encouraged and edified by the struggle and eventual victory of a fellow believer.

Dried Up

2007-07-09T15:21:00.000-04:00

Like much of the south right about now with hardly any rain in past several weeks so is my mind when it comes of thinking about topics or good blogging fodder.

with the fall semester right around the corner. Plus two conferences here @ Southeastern one entitled the Convergent Conference with topics such as the emergent church to be discussed with the like of Ed Stetzer and Mark Driscoll and the other a conference on the life and works of C.S Lewis I'm sure to have plenty of stuff to discuss.

That book review is right around the corner just have to gather my thoughts on it...

Hope everyone is doing well....love to hear from ya.....look me up

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5 Things I Dig About Jesus

2007-06-21T16:25:00.000-04:00

So Adam Whipple has tagged me into this thing. I hope you will be able to participate and keep the fun going.

1. Those tagged will share 5 things they dig about Jesus.
2. Those tagged will tag 5 other bloggers.
3. Those tagged will provide a link in the comments section here of their post so that others can read them.

Here goes.

1. Jesus still went to the Cross knowing how many time I would still turn my back on him in rebellion of the flesh. What a mighty love that is.

2. He is that small voice constantly telling and reminding me that he is in control.

3. That he is not a white middle class republican* for most this is the picture of what it means to be a true faith walking Christian.

4. That he is faithful to me inspite of faithlessness

5. He loved to fish...I like to fish!!!!!

The next five victims....erh I mean contestants are:

Scott Guthrie
Natalie Justice
Evan Higgenbotham
Andy Witt
Josh Woodall

those of you I've tagged feel free to post your digs wherever you call home(facebook, myspace,blogger, or xang) or as comment on my site.

lets keep this going.

An Exit of sorts

2007-06-18T16:29:00.000-04:00

Well today I submit this for thought, We the students here are Southeastern received a note from the President in which he gave a summary of the events that took place at this year's Southern Baptist Convention. It was in this note that he express concern at the fact that the attendance was small and "well advanced" in years.

Well I'd like to think that I'm concerned about where we are going as Baptist's however my financial obligations do not allow me to drop all and just go week without working and income from working. The fact that this year's convention was in San Antonio, TX was another major factor.

The title describes where I am in my employment opportunities. I was in Blockbuster last night and I saw where they were hiring. I'm looking for an extra job to earn extra income and actually saved instead of living month to month. Well I took the 45 minutes today that it takes to complete the blockbuster application. Much to my surprise I received a call today and discussed at length about the possibility of a F/T management position. So with this new development my exit from UPS might be imminent. We'll see what happens.

Grace, Peace, and Earl Grey to you All......

Reliant Upon the Sometimes Unreliable

2007-06-09T00:22:00.000-04:00

I was amazed and found humor in the concept that we as a culture are at times so dependent on technology be it a computer, a cell phone, or laptop whatever the case may be when those things cease to function we can feel like and Pirate with a termite infested peg-leg.

This was my experience this past Wednesday, Thursday, and part of Friday. I'm a seminary student so money is tight so I'm unable to afford the cost of an actual phone line in my apartment so a cell phone is my only means of communication and contact with the exception of e-mail. Well My phone decided late Wednesday night that it didn't want to work anymore. I was unable to make any sort of phone call I ended up having to borrow my roommate's phone to talk to Cingular/AT&T customer service about insurance* and replacing my phone.

* I'm really thankful that I got insurance on my phone....initially when I setup my account I almost decided to fore go the extra cost.

An Accurate Reflection

2007-06-08T22:44:00.000-04:00

Greetings to all in the blogsphere, first off I hope everyone is doing well as for me it is finally summer. A time to relax kick back and read a few books here and there, as well as do some fishing and other stuff.

As for the reading part I'm steadily moving through John Piper's Future Grace just six chapters in and I've already been confronted with some great biblical truth. About how we are to live in the grace that Christ lavishes upon us. We should always be careful not to feel as though we can ever repay God back for the grace that he gives us because the day that happens grace stops being grace.

that's a little preview more to come later in the review

The title of my entry has to do with situation at work tonight. Last sunday I asked my small group fellowship to please be in prayer for me that my attitude would always be a an "accurate reflection" of what Christ has called us to be in the workplace as well as everyday life. Tonight was a rough night we had the minimum amount of people there to operate our part of the sort(I work @ UPS). So needless to say the supervisors were asking a lot of all of us tonight. It came down to the end of the night and I was told that if certain task wasn't done at the end of the night I wasn't going to be allowed to leave until it was done. It was at this point that lost it a little bit and said that my responsibility was to my section first then whatever else is needed.

Long and the short of it was was rude and disrespectful to my supervisor. it was then that a lady working next to me asked me if I was allowed to get away with that. At first I was like uh that's the norm around here. She then proceeded to draw my attention to the fact that I had been disrespectful and rude.

So all in all it was a very humbling experience. I'm thankful that there are still Christians who have to courage to call one another out when they observe a fellow member of the body acting in a way they shouldn't.

Donations Welcomed

2007-05-28T12:40:00.001-04:00

Announcing the formation of the "Help Jared buy a new computer fund"

Any and all donations are welcomed!!!!

Summa-Time!!!!

2007-05-27T23:00:00.000-04:00

Well, for starters I can hardly believe that I've just finished my first year at seminary. I've already learned so much in just this short period of time it blows my mind. Things are still cookin @ UPS I just wish with summer time came the ability to work longer and earn more money. The prospects of finding another job are pretty grim. Which would really help in the money dept.

Thats the one difficulty that I've really had to get used to so far here at seminary. I make just enough to clear my expenses and I hardly have anything left over. I'd love to be able to save as much as I can but in all reality I just can't. I'm that every current or former seminarian would be able to give testimony to this very situation. Still through it all I'm thankful that I'm able to meet my financial obligations; cause truth be told it could be the other way around. I'm thankful for parents who with financial difficulties of their own find ways to help me when I need it the most.

One thing that I've learned here is that the grade is not always a reflection of what you learned. My first semester is a clear indication of that fact. I learned so much but you wouldn't think so to look at my grades.

My hope is to try to get some reading done this summer. I've got 2 John Piper books that I got for Christmas that I want to read "Future Grace", and "When I don't desire God: How to Fight For Joy"

When I get'em read I'll be sure to post reviews about them.

I have finally found it

2007-04-20T12:14:00.000-04:00

The Holy Grail of Lip Balms:

*The trick is finding a store that carries it

Things Goings On.....

2007-04-19T16:42:00.000-04:00

Howdy Folks,

Well this is just little blurb to let you all know I'm still alive. I've been covered up by "stuff" and I'm on slow but steady pace to finish out my 2nd semester here @ Southeastern so far this semester is shaping up to be whole lot better than my first. Apparently it takes you couple of painful semesters to get readjusted back to the lifestyle of studying/little to no social life after taking a year off.

Again I'd like to implore my readership to please pray for me and my work situation I've been in little of trouble and I'm relying on God to see me through this storm(Mark 4:35-41) and doing the best job I know how to and thats all anyone can ask of me.

Book Review Coming......

2007-04-15T23:34:00.000-04:00

Well Ladies and Gents, my inaugural book review is about to take place here @ TheCrazyScotsman

It's taken me awhile to read it but we're almost there.

Keep me in prayers guys and gals(really unsure of my audience) we're gearing up for the end of the semester and I need to finish strong this semester.....last semester wasn't so hot so I have to make up for this time around.

Fishing and Shipping

2007-03-25T16:19:00.000-04:00

Well it's steady as she goes here in Wake Forest as of late. It hard to adjust and do things different when your schedule demands that it be such a rigid one to begin with. I'm slowly starting to use every single minute that I can, and still I fail to do so sometimes. I'm also starting to realize the beauty of waking up early you allot yourself so much more extra time that way.

It's been a rough couple weeks here recently @ UPS I've been the favorite focus of constructive ridicule I'm having and have been having trouble with misloads (putting the right package in the wrong bag). I just press on and tell my supervisors that I'm doing my best and thats all that anyone can expect from me. It's not negligence or anything of that sort. For the most part its getting tunnel vision and not thoroughly reading the address label. My mother will want to be concerned about my previous statements but what she doesn't realize is that its UPS(they get concerned and turn right around and don't care about it whatever it may be)

So after some odd years of I don't know what I've recently become interested in the art of fishing. So much more that attaching a worm to hook w/ a bobber and just letting is sit. I'm talking about bait fishing and luring fish out and getting them to strike. It was a blast yesterday it was slow start for me but as for my roommate he caught 8 smallmouth all together I managed to to catch 3 towards the end of the day. All in all a great time.

Fishing also reminds me how we as Christians struggle with temptation we see the bait what the world has to offer but what he don't know intially is lurking within that shining piece is a dangerous hook. It's only by grace and the fellow Christians around us that we're able to throw that hook and get away.

Fragile!!!...Handle w/ care

2007-03-08T23:56:00.000-05:00

This inspiration to write this time comes from my place of employment oddly enough. I finally reached my seniority so now I have to either steal something, start fight, or set off a bomb in the building to get fired. In the short and long 7 months that I've been employed at UPS I've seen many packages with the special label Fragile: Handle w/ Care. Now to you the receiver of such a said package with aforementioned label in your ideal imagination would like to believe and think that; that package has been handled with the "care" that has been requested by that said label. I'm here to testify to the contrary. The Fragile label means nothing to the common package handler. I've seen a many fragile package sail through the air like it was a football. Now not to worry you the receiver this is not the norm I'm just reporting what I've seen @ both Fedex and UPS both major shippers.

We are back to classes after "spring break" and with that test are soon to follow. I got to see a good and familiar face today in the person of Victor Lee from my home church that and free meal is always good too.

Congrats to the NC State Wolfpack are in order for hanging in there and making sure that the Duke Blue Devils went down like a bunch of punks that they are.

Discussion time: Do you think Henderson's foul was flagrant or intentional????

ITS TOURNEY TIME.....GET CRAZY!!!!!!!

I Thought it was a News Report Not a Ratings Competition.....

2007-02-24T19:57:00.000-05:00

Well three weeks into the episodes of LOST and I can't say that I'm not busting neurons at the end of every episode.

So where has the scotsman/seminarian been for the span of 3 weeks well to be perfectly honest blogging hasn't been the foremost thing on my mind as of late. This can be attributed to a writing funk i.e. not enough fodder or worthy material blog about. I'm slowly working my way through that book that I got tagged to review. It's a slow go with all the other work and reading that I have got to do.

So watching and reading the latest news and the Anna Nicole saga at any point is anyone concerned with "How" she died. I mean seriously its not every day that 40 year old like her just drops dead. It seems that the media is more concerned with what gets "ratings".

Spring break for Southeastern is this week so it should free me up to get some work done get some rest to finish fighting off the most recent bug I've had. I've been sick more often this past year that I've ever been in recent memory. Also with the help of a awesome site called Craig's List I was able to acquire a washer and dryer for $200.00 so let the era of free laundry begin.

Sports, and LOST

2007-02-08T14:35:00.000-05:00

Well sports fans....the Tarheels accomplished what rarely happens for them considering their most recent history. Last night UNC was able to beat the Duke Blue Devils on their home turf. I missed the first half the game last night due to work. So raced home hoping to catch the 2nd half of the game only find out that it was blacked out on ESPN b/c it was being covered on the local station. So I essentially taped 3/4 of alternate content. A win is always good so it wasn't all that bad.

So being all caught up with LOST was all ready to go for last night. This episode was no dissappointment I can't wait for next week.

School is keeping me pretty busy for the most part so most nights I have little time for anything else other than going straight to bed for being totally exhausted. In other words, I probably should be reading something right now instead of taking time to post content.

Copy-Cats

2007-01-26T08:25:00.000-05:00

Good morning sports-fans. All of you Tarheel fans may consider my loyalty when you read what I'm about to post but trust I'm loyal, devoted, Tarheel Blue through and through.

I was watching the morning addition of Sportscenter, and some college basketball highlights. I noticed how many school's student bodies imitate Duke's Cameron Crazies. I will admit that even my school Carson-Newman tried to play the intimidation card at our basketball games. Any time I see anyone other than the Cameron Crazies doing it I laugh. The sight of the entire student body bobbing up and down and cheering at Duke has to be one of the most unnerving things in all of sports.

A Busted Bank

2007-01-24T03:15:00.000-05:00

This post is a testament to seminarians everywhere who've ever been down to their last quarters.

I feel that writing about it helps me calm down a little bit more. Thanks goes out to Woods a guy that I'm privileged to call friend. He truly was Christ in a moment when I needed it the most.

A few too many debits coming at the same time have left me with little less than $10.00 to my name. I tell you that first because initially my first thoughts were(who has my account info and who is stealing my money). After digging a little deeper I discovered that all my savings had been transferred to cover all the debits.

Those of you who know me well know that I don't respond well to bad news. I tend to "lose it" but eventually I calm down enough to see reason. It was the words of my friend and his prayer that helped me. I was reminded of the opening lines of the Book of James and took encouragement from that so I will leave you with that hoping that if today or this week has been a struggle for you that you might take comfort or find encouragement just as I did

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4(NIV)

Tag Your It!!!!!

2007-01-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

Well I've been tagged by Whipple in a fun little game internet tag you tag someone and that person must list 5 random/unique facts about yourself. Well I've been tagged so here I go:

Facts About Me:

1) I can remember reading about and saying that I wanted to be a volcanologist

2) I used to think Carman(the singer) was the best thing since sliced bread(oh how my tastes have developed)

3) I've been stopped a total of 3 times by the cops for no apparent reason(knock on internet wood)

4) In my younger days I was a Hardy Boys junkie

5) Eventually I want to learn and study Latin

Well lets keep this Going....I'm tagging Stilley and Bussey

Maybe Just Maybe

2007-01-09T00:46:00.000-05:00

Now maybe just maybe the SEC will get the respect it deserves as one of the best if not the best Conference in College Football.

It was total domination all night of Ohio St. A team who's average was 410 yards had 84 total yards all night. Just goes to show you the caliber of teams that Ohio St. played this year. It also shows you the caliber of the SEC.

I'm able to say this with no reservation and not feel bad being a UT fan saying it:

GO GATORS WAY TO GO!!!!!!!

Getting Exposure

2007-01-06T18:13:00.000-05:00

Well apparently my blog is getting exposure...further than I think it is. As of this writing I've been approached to do a book review. The book is entitled Confessions Of An Amateur Believer by Patty Kirk. May this be the first of many.

This will be my first test of the goal I set for myself for this New Year.

Keep it tuned to the CrazyScotsman Network all the latest....

My New Obession for the New Year

2007-01-02T02:32:00.000-05:00

Well I have fallen victim to the latest and greatest craze known only as the LOST Phenomenon. Although not a true follower watching from the the shows inception till now. I have managed to catch-up by borrowing Seasons 1 & 2 from a friend. I must say I should have paced myself with watching the Season 3 episodes that are available thus far. I finished them late last week and now have to sit around like some kind of addict going through withdrawl waiting for February 7th to roll around.

A little commentary on LOST: its a shame that Mr. Eko had to die he was by far one of my favorite characters with Locke finishing in a close 2nd.

As for the New Year I didn't really make resolutions more like a goals. That goal being to read more not just online but printed material..."books"....as it were also to become more studious and disciplined when it comes many things but most important my academics.

See I'm not a Yankee

2006-12-24T15:41:00.000-05:00

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio.
The South
The West
The Inland North
Philadelphia
The Northeast
Boston
North Central
What American accent do you have?Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

To Santa or Not to Santa

2006-12-23T23:15:00.000-05:00

*Disclaimer* If you reading this post and have young children make sure they're not in the room. I wouldn't want to be responsible for tearing a gaping hole in the the fabric of your child's imagination.
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Yes I know the title is obscure but it does include my p0int. There is group pseudo-pyshco people who hold to the notion that if you as a parent choose to do the "Santa Claus" thing with your children your encouraging the concept that lying is ok. I for one think these people are those who figured out that Santa wasn't real at like age 5 and as a result did not have a happy childhood. On the other hand there are group of evangelicals among us that think the concept of Santa is from the pit and should be eliminated at all costs.

Personally I believe in a healthy balance between the "True" reason for the season and the elements of gift giving and receiving from the mythical figure of Santa. Its just one of those fantasies that every child should have the opportunity to experience.

Hopefully for those of my readership I haven't destroyed your only remaining childhood fantasy. However I am curious what the over all opinion is. I'm curious those of my readership who don't have kids will do the "Santa Thing" with your kids?????

Christmas Wishes

2006-12-22T14:40:00.000-05:00

Greetings....from Wake Forest and the return from the semi-annual brain drain known as the end of the semester @ seminary. The end of the semester was rough I knew what I had to do to just pass my classes so far I've passed all my classes not like I would have wanted to but passing is passing and now I know better.

I really learned that seminary is in fact tough and intensive. To all undergrad religion majors that may happen upon my blog who are planning on going to seminary for graduate school don't think that just because you've had religion classes means that seminary will come any easier. The answer is yes and no yes the material will be familiar and no the classes are still challenging.

Not all is dreary...in the beginning I was hired at UPS as a seasonal temporary worker as of Weds night I was informed that I'm being retained as a permanent employee. So I'm really encouraged by that knowing I no longer have to stress about what was an uncertain.

Looking forward to the New Year and new blogging fodder to explore.

Wishing You and Yours a Very Merry Christmas!

!!!!!Future Tourist Attraction Alert!!!!!

2006-12-08T00:41:00.000-05:00

Just like the garden tomb in Jerusalem is more a tourist attraction/trap. Yet another potential one is in the works.

Check this article out apparently archaeologists have stumbled upon the possible remains of the Apostle Paul???

A respid of sorts

2006-12-07T22:33:00.000-05:00

Hey guys and gals of the blogsphere.....finals are gearing up here @ Southeastern so I'll definitely occupied to doing that.

Be back after my brain cramming and draining

Satisfaction Saturday

2006-12-02T15:38:00.000-05:00

Kentucky 63, UNC 75

I as many of my blogging compatriots don't usually post on the weekends. Now with College Football on hiatus until the last weeks in Dec and the first in Jan; All eyes will shift to the 2nd greatest sport and that is college basketball and the greatest conference the ACC. You SEC types haven't got anything on us.

Two Words:

GO HEELS!!!!!!

Mein Kampf pt. 2

2006-11-28T22:50:00.000-05:00

I appreciate all the wise words that have been given so far. I'm reminded of what it says in the book of James:

Consider it pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, cause you know that the testing faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

I can say with confidence that I believe that the enemy will manifest a multitude of feelings and make you say almost anything in an effort to convince and defeat you. This is a trial something that I'm not comfortable with. Although the majority of people my age are already living on their own. I on the other hand could live close to home for the rest of my life and be perfectly content.

This matter is not settled yet I'm in the process of preparing to go before the Lord and seek his answer. whether it be leave or stay.

Mein Kampf

2006-11-27T14:29:00.000-05:00

If you know German you know what that means if not it means my struggle. I'm a sinner saved I know it I'm confident of it.

I don't know that I've ever had such a hard time these past few days, weeks and months here at seminary. Both times in driving back to Wake Forest I've been completely beside myself overwhelmed in tears. I know that to walk in the will of God can be at times a struggle times but is it supposed this "hard." My fear is that my call to ministry was nothing more than a way to get attention at church camp.

I welcome all the counsel that is out there from my comrades in arms in the blogsphere. For me right now it seems that my prayers go no further that the ceiling tiles. Nothing seems to make sense for me anymore.

Return of the Scotsman

2006-11-14T11:59:00.000-05:00

Well I've returned mentally beaten and bruised my absence from the blogsphere has been...yes from writing my first major exegesis. All I can say at this moment is I did it. Its no earth shattering theological work. In fact there is more scholarly notes in it almost to the point of feeling guilty. I cited and gave credit were credit was due but still felt like I should have had more to say. I can say that when I was done typing my brain felt empty.

In reading Mark Driscoll's blog I see the [JV Catholics(Episcopals) as my Grandfather referred to them as] have slipped one more step towards complacency and apathy in electing their first women bishop to preside over the church as a whole. Not to mention one who condones homosexuality as a accepted practice. Who says in an article that: She believes the church should ordain gays and bless same-sex couples, though she insists she won't impose her views on others.

Excuse me but what form of the scriptures does she read from?????

Where have all the male leaders of the church gone???.....fishing perhaps...and not for men...methinks?

rekindling the fire

2006-10-31T23:45:00.000-05:00

I title this post as it describes my situation and my current state of being. I know those you who read my chronicle will say didn't you post something to the effect of a "turning point" I must be honest and say that even as I wrote that I was keeping something back. That something was a habitual sin almost an addiction of sorts. As of last week I put it out of my life now and with God's help for good.

Having that in my life and not fully acknowledging it (even worse consciously doing it) made my life one big bowl of slime. I honestly felt dirty and unworthy to call myself a child of the one true God. This all came upon me by listening to words of John Piper as he was progressing through a study of Romans.

That is where I am at the moment. Another failing in me is for the longest time my journey so far here at seminary has been one of "look at me, I'm going to be a pastor" I must remember that this will never be about me

I won't post my prayer requests in this forum, but if you'd like to know what to pray about for just comment indicating and I'll be glad to tell.

I must adamantly recommend John Piper his daily podcast is on iTunes or through the link above.

A Change of Season......

2006-10-25T01:15:00.000-04:00

With a brief winter's chill in the morning air it is more than apparent that Fall is in full swing with winter not far behind. Its mornings and evening like these that remind me of my college days although not so far behind me they feel like a distant memory. Nights spent walking upon cherokee damn sometimes in deep theological discussion other times about nothing at, simply what was bugging me and how I was dealing with it.

Sometimes I wish I could rewind my life and have it to do all over again with the same experiences, the same friends, and everything in between; but then I snap back in to the here and now and realize all the responsibilites that lay before me.

but it's hard to stay mad, when there's so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm seeing it all at once, and it's too much, my heart fills up like a balloon that's about to burst... And then I remember to relax, and stop trying to hold on to it, and then it flows through me like rain

- American Beauty

Watch for Flying Grey Matter

2006-10-19T14:14:00.000-04:00

Well after my first round of tests came back with no favorable grades on them I've reasserted myself with the appropriate mentoring and accountability; and I'm now faithfully reading the assigned text as called for.

Wouldn't know the results of quizzes and that right come with grades like 90's and 96's and 100's even. Its amazing what you can happen when your faithful to study. I digress...the title of this post has to do with my Church History class. It is very engaging* and I'm learning and hearing alot in that class. right now we are at about the 4th Century or so right around the time of the Arian(not the neo-Nazi's) Controversy and the Council of Nicea and that stuff. Its simply amazing what the Early Christian's concerns were over. I mean today some our biggest concerns are Do members really have to park off-campus and ride the shuttle to church allowing visitors come??

I mean just think about actually debating whether or not the Jesus you called Savior was He of the Father(the term: Homoousios meaning same substance for all you non-greek peeps) or something else. Its so much at times I feel like my little naive baptist mind is going to explode. (hence the title)

Hope everyone is well I must apologize to the blogsphere for my the posts I had on here recently they were done out of frustration and God was really working on me and I was fighting him tooth and nail as I tend to usually and we all know what happens when you fight against God. So I'm starting a book study of James if anyone wants to join me in a dialogue about it not it will be Good just the same.

* I say engaging yet I've yet to engage I'm just taking it all in still. Sometimes it makes me wonder whether or not I comprehend it cause I'm not asking questions.; and yet still it could be arrogance for not asking questions.

A New Revelation

2006-10-14T02:26:00.000-04:00

I'm taking Hermenutics this my first semester and already I'm gaining more confidence in my ability to take a passage and and really get into the meat and bones of the passage. As it is called "finding the seams" the natural flow of the passage. This in turn proves that I'm capable of being a pastor. I'v been battling this for a long time and I attribute it to Satan trying ot defeat a potential good weapon in me (I hope that doesn't sound conceited) if it does it is not intended to be.

As apart of my reading for this class I'm reading "Living By The Book" by Howard G. Hendricks and giant in the field of Hermenutics. One thing this book has convicted me of is my failure to really study the bible and examine the scripture for deep meaning.

I'm guilty of distorting the text for all it worth making it say what I want it say so that I can condone my behavior or rather past behaviors. Scripture has but one interpretation and many applications.

Call this what what you will....I call it sort of a confession

And for something totally different(allusion to Monty Python)

Church History Question for Discussion:

Do you think Constantine was really convertered????

I say he wasn't cause if was genuinely converted to Christianity he would see that it was impossible to continue with the pagan worship. according to scripture.

This For Now......

2006-10-12T07:03:00.000-04:00

It's not much but I promise within the close of the week I'll have something to put I'm currently stewing over what I'm gonna offer up for discussion.

But, for now I must say that I felt like an accomplished musician yesterday to turn on the local classical station here in Wake Forest which is WCPE 89.7 and hear them playing Gustav Holst's: First Suite for Miltary Band in E Flat.

New Beginnings

2006-10-04T23:28:00.000-04:00

I've recently as of a few hours ago switched to the new beta of Blogger with the switch all of the links of my highly visited blogs and pages went bye bye.

so....if you once held a spot on The CrazyScotsman and don't see your name and site please leave me a comment with the appropriate info and I'll be sure to post it.

In addition those who frequent my site that have a new or interesting site that you think I should list please submit it.

I'll take the first 30 (if I get that many) beacause I'm wanting to limit the amount scrolling you have to do on my page.

Things Going On

2006-10-04T22:15:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone....just dropping in to give you all an update. Things are going well starting to learn the ins and outs of my new job. God was really smiling on me the way things have been arranged I'm working in the lowest stress area of the the entire Hub. For those you who don't know and I'm not sure that I mentioned this but I recently landed a job working for UPS. At any rate the biggest thing where I'm working is being accurate and making sure that right packages go in the right bags headed for the right city. At the moment I'm considered a seasonal worker, but from the sounds of if you do a good job and perform well there's almost no down time between Christmas time and getting called back to work as a permanent employee. As far as I'm conerned until a "church job" comes my way I plan on staying with UPS I mean how many people can say that they work part-time and they get full health benefits.

I'm enjoying a break from school...apparently SBC still has a college mentality to it in that we are on "Fall Break" I feel like I just started and we're already on a break; then again its not really a break cause its definently implied that you work during the break.

College Pranks

2006-09-25T23:36:00.000-04:00

After an invigorating discussion about my previous post I aimed to bring some humor back into the mix here @ The CrazyScotsman.

This video is from a group who attends the University of Michigan. In my honest opinion and I'm one who is capable of some pretty elaborate pranks. This is by far the most original way to interrupt Lecture class

The Video

The Site

Enjoy!!!!

"Just a spoonful of Calvinism makes the medicine go down"

2006-09-13T22:32:00.000-04:00

Here in recent days the topics of John Calvin and Martin Luther have come up and have been discussed. Martin Luther I always enjoyed to discussing because he is essentially the father of the protestant stream of of faith. I always shyed away from John Calvin and his theories because the first thing you think about when his name comes up is the idea of predestination; and how some are chosen to spend eternity in heaven and then others are destined to go the hell.

Upon further study I find myself to be a 3 point Calvinist of which is there is a possibility of being a 5 point Calvinist. I believe that in total depravity that man cannot save himself. I believe in unconditional election in that going to be with God is not based on foreseen virtue, merit, or faith but on God's mercy alone. Finally I believe in perserverance of the saints simply put once saved you can't lose your salvation regardless of what may happen.

It's funny how assumptions about a controversial theory can shape or thinking/attitude. This post has along links using the gi-normous resource of Wikipedia. There's alot here to be explored.

I can really feel the pressure, we starting to near the end of the first third of semester and we all know what that means.....Tests,exams.....ugh!! My prayer request would be that God grant me the ability to be a better manager of my time.

Grace, Peace, and Coffee

*My hope this generates more traffic my way and whole lot more discussion via my comments*

nudge nudge...wink wink

In the News

2006-09-05T22:57:00.000-04:00

Well totally un-expected to this blogger was the newsheadline that The Croc Hunter had died due to an accident involving a Stingray. In all the times I watched his show I always had feeling that he would meet his maker involving getting too close to one of those dangerous animals. He was a man who loved what he did and live every minute to the fullest. He will be missed by many. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wife and his two young children.

On a lighter note....We saw the University of Tennessee(Go Vols!!!!) hit the ground running this season taking the Golden Bears of California to task 35-18. This due in part to the return of this man. I was able to take in the game this past weekend from the comforts of home that being Knoxville, TN due part to the labor-day weekend.

With the weekend being over it will be back to hitting the books. I start my job this week as well which is going to be challenge for me before I even start. I'm worried about being able to work enough to pay for my expenses and having enough time left over to study and succeed in school.

Grace, Peace, and Starbucks

A Turning Point

2006-08-29T20:03:00.000-04:00

Last night was turning point in my journey of faith so far. I was in my quiet time(something I haven't been able to say in a long time) the scripture was Luke 11:1 where Jesus' disciples approach Jesus asking him to teach them to pray. Jesus there afterwards gives them a model prayer also known as the Lord's Prayer.

As I read the scripture I felt this spirit come over me and really sink in and for the first time in a long time the words of scripture actually had a deeper meaning than just words on a page. It was at this point that God convicted me of things in my life that were displeasing to him(better said I finally came to terms or acknowledged what God had already convicted me of much earlier instead of causually sweeping in under the metaphorical rug). I nailed it to the cross and gave it to proceeded to do what I need to do to make sure that the habitual sin that was in my life could never happen again. My heart was drawn to Psalm 51 which I read and was reminded of what it was like for me in High School. After reading through the psalm several times as a sort of prayer I felt restored in my faith and so much closer to God.

As result the music and the message in chapel resonated in my heart more deeply and with more meaning than they have ever before.

Now for something a on sort of a comical note, Does it say in the Word that God considers it more righteous if you dress in coat and tie for seminary class. I know that's not true and the gentlemen I see might have a viable reason for being dressed this way.

I just thought I would insert in here for some funny feedback and thoughts that sure to come.

Grace, Peace, and Chai <><

Knowledge by the truckload

2006-08-21T22:35:00.000-04:00

Officially I've met all my classes at least once, but through the reading assigned for those classes I've already been exposed to probably the equivalent of the knowledge and information that I got in the one semester's worth at CN. It's simply amazing at how in-depth we've already plunged.

I'm currently reading and now recommend this book "Reinventing Jesus" by Ed Komoszewski. If you ever wanted to really dig into how we got what we now hold in our hand as the Bible this is the book for you. It also spends a great deal in discussing and defending against the views and opinions that say the the bible is not reliable and can't be trust as a complete document.

Thanks so much for your prayers I'm not starting to meet alteast some other people and I no longer feel like I have no one down here to call friend.

Still struggling to get my daily quiet time back on track so continued prayer for me in that regard although a welcome gift came in the mail over the weekend in the form of Oswald Chamber's My Utmost for his Highest.

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
3 John 1:2

Until next time.

Grace and Peace and Chai <><

Let the Games Begin

2006-08-16T14:32:00.000-04:00

No games here just thought it would be a catchy title. Tomorrow I embark on a 3 year(lord willing) journey of seminary training. It's little surreal that I'm finally here.

I'm finally feeling good about this place a week ago when I had nothing do and it was just me and my movies I felt anything but good. Why you may ask, I was the perfect target and the adversary came at me with every thing he had in his arsenal, putting feeling of doubt and trepidation in my mind. I was reminded of the passage in Romans: For we know that that in all things God works for the good of those who love him and who have been called according to his purpsoe Rm. 8:28

So with that I just told the devil to shut up and get behind me. I would ask every who follows this chronicle to please be in prayer for me. Please pray that I will avail myself of every oportunity to excel academically, that I will use my time wisely, and that my walk with God will only grow closer for having been in this place.

I welcome your comments, your thoughts, and your feelings.

Until next time,

Grace and Peace and Chai. <><

We're Here......

2006-08-08T20:26:00.000-04:00

To steal a line from Poltrigeist. I have arrived in Wake Forest, NC more specifically Southeastern. I have to say that I've come to a crossroads in my life where its either going to be a consistent and genuine walk with my LORD or dare I say a continued existence of "playing church." To which was said that if I was to continue as Southeastern would not happen because of what would be required of me.

It was spiritual warefare at its greatest yesterday I felt like I couldn't do this and I wanted to go home to what I knew and forget that I was ever called to ministry. Sitting in the director of admissions office with my parents the enemy was manufacturing every excuse he could that would in turn put me in my car headed back to Knoxville. I finally just sucked it up and said with as much confidence as I could muster that I was staying and sticking it out now whether that means I stay for a semester or for the entire time that I'm here remains to be seen.

I must say the lowest point was following my parents out of complex that I'm living in and seeing them go one direction and I go the other way. I will be painfully honest I cried and I still feel bad with regard that I'm on my own with regard to not having parents less than an hour away which was the case with me being at Carson Newman. My roommates are awesome guys who are helping me to get settled in and I know that they know exactly what I'm feeling cause they were once there.

I can once again resume my role as a movie junky cause I have absolutely nothing do for about a week cause orientation starts next week and then eventually classes.

Hidden Wisdom

2006-07-29T01:24:00.000-04:00

It's funny where God can teach you things. You know I've grown up believing that God's is heard best when we are still and quiet at study or just sitting around. A word tonight came sitting in a dark movie theatre watching the most recent Adam Sandler movie Click God's word was don't take things for granted. I watched as Adam Sandler's character fast-forwarded his life to only live out the good times, but when his life got away from him and out of his control all he had was regret.

Driving home I thought; what have a I just taken as given each and everyday? For starters: My Family; my parents each and everyday I come home and just know/expect them to be there to have dinner or whatever ready for me. My brother to always have something to brighten my day when I'm not feeling my best. It occurred to me that in a instant all that could be gone. My friends, although are just a phone call/e-mail/letter away (whipple...haha) could be taken from me in a flash.

But I take comfort knowing that I have Savior that despite something like that happening would never leave me nor forsake me. So listen up God always speaks through his word but he's very creative and can speak through anything.

Grace and Peace, and Chai

<><

2 Weeks and Counting....

2006-07-24T02:33:00.000-04:00

Bloggers everywhere I'm sure are ashamed of me especially Adam and Whipple in my ineptness to keep my blog current and up to date.

Tomorrow will essentially mark my final week working for Marble Slab @ Turkey Creek. It has been a good job but not without its frustrations and stresses. From there I look forward towards Wake Forest and Southeastern. At least I keep telling myself that hoping to convince myself if not already there. I do admit a little amount of trepidation but I just remember my first year at Carson-Newman and how I sat in my room and cried feeling like I was all alone in the world. Which brings me to my next point. Today I heard probably the best sermon that I have heard in a long long time. It was given in earnest by our upcoming Pastor Phillip Martin who eventually will fill the pulpit of Concord when Dr. Sager finally steps down. The words pierced my heart like a like an arrow and literally slapped me in the face at the same time.

sitting there in that room it finally made sense why I was so worried about moving here in a couple of weeks. My dependency was on myself and and not fully on God. I had it in me that I could do it myself. Like so many times before and this seems to be a lesson that God and I seem to revert back to is that I need him and apart from Him I can do nothing.

If you have some free time this week or even after reading this go and listen and or watch this sermon and see if it doesn't touch you in the same way it did me. Maybe it will or maybe God has a different word for wrapped up in it. God says some many things to some many people just through one message I've come to learn in 24 years of life.

Here

Rekindling an Old Habit

2006-06-30T02:52:00.000-04:00

Late night with nothing do but watch movies,TV, or what not I decided to sift through my college stuff and pulled out the old pipe and tobacco(suprisingly still fresh) and sat out on my back deck and took in the night air mixed with the aroma of straight virginia blended tobacco. I find pipe smoking to be relaxing and great way to spend the evening even better with a cup of joe...it has to be the right cup of joe though I find.

It's been awhile since my last post I'm finding that I have a good streak in me every once in awhile and then I slack off and don't say anything for about a month. A few things have happen in the past fews days I've recently gotten my housing assignment for Southeastern. As I move closer and closer to month of August I find myself more and more confident about going. My attitude is that it's been long enough it time to get back into my role as a student. Though in a sense you never stop being student there is always something to learn be it from God's word or in life.

I find myself as of late getting back into following one of my favorite sports again, that being baseball and my team the Atlanta Braves who are having a rough go of it so far this season current 14.5 games back. Lo and behold I was watching higlight tapes of old season's and I watched as the braves came back to win the Western division(old highlight tapes) from 10 and 11 games back and with the 14th consectutive division title in doubt I know the braves are capable of pulling it off but we'll have wait and see.

thats all for now.

Grace and Peace <><

Getting Closer pt. 2

2006-06-08T00:10:00.000-04:00

At the request of friend and fellow blogger adam I figure those who have been following my journey so far since my graduation from CNC. I decided to take a brief sebatacle from being a student instead of starting my seminary training right away. I'm gonna use the next few blog posts to stew over things that I've learned during my one year respid.

I've learn over the past 10 months that there is no such thing as a perfect job. I've been working in what pop culture calls the "real world" dealing with the general public on a day to day basis. Each and everyday I'm faced with challenges that I have either conquer or be conquered by. This has made me realize that I will face the same thing in the ministry field. By working in the regular world for a brief time has enabled me to learn and observe how I react to times of difficulty as I mentioned and make mental notes so that I will be better prepared when they present themselves in the ministry field.

I find it funny how things work sometimes. I think it has finally occured to my Mom that both My brother and I will be moving away; college for my brother and as you all know seminary for me. My mom mentioned to me in passing the other day that if I had any reservations about going Southeastern she said, " You know you can always find a place to live around here and go to Southern Seminary at Maryville College."

with that I will close out this edition stay tuned for more installments.

Grace and Peace <><

Getting Closer pt. 1

2006-06-06T14:50:00.000-04:00

At the request of friend and fellow blogger adam I figure those who have been following my journey so far since my graduation from CNC. I decided to take a brief sebatacle from being a student instead of starting my seminary training right away. I'm gonna use the next few blog posts to stew over things that I've learned during my one year respid.

I can say at this point I think I made the right decision I don't think that I was in any way prepared to enter into the living on your own supporting oneself life. During my year off I've been able to finally realize that you must treasure and spend wisely every dollar you make, cause once its gone you gotta wait that 1 week, 2 weeks, and even maybe month for that next paycheck to come around. Fortunately for me my current job has a bi-weekly pay method (ha ha ha).

One thing I've learned is that despite all the things you say upon graduation such as: that you promise to stay in touch and to hang out every once in awhile. I've learned that maintaining those tight knit college friendships that you made become very hard to keep.

thus it has made me aware of the importance of a simple email,phone call.

One Day At A Time

2006-06-05T18:46:00.000-04:00

Greetings everyone...it has definantly been awhile since my last post. my schedule has much of the same work, eat, and sleep.

Each day I draw closer to H-hour or moving day when I'll pack up my belongings and head for Wake Forest. I feel that my question marks have finally been answered and I'm able to move down there and not feel that I'm moving into the unknown. This is in part due to the fact that I'm finally starting to get regular correspondence from them.

We have been experiencing lot of death and lost here recently @ FB Concord. A very good family friend died suddenly. He was in the Army the 278TH survived a tour of duty in the current Iraq war to come home and die of a heart attack. For some its hard to understand God in this situation but I trust that God knows what He's doing and that He can even use death to gather people unto his side. I trust that God was finished using my friend and God said "Well Done" and brought him home. People even Christians try to understand the mind of God in situation where He takes a Husband away from a wife, a Dad away from a young family but if we understand the mind of God there was be no reason to have Faith.

"A God comprehended is no God."
- Tersteegen

Grace and Peace <><

Longing for Times Gone With the Wind

2006-05-09T02:08:00.000-04:00

Driving home from work this late evening with the windows down brought to this writer's olfactory nerve the smell of honey-suckle various other scents of late spring, early summer. Listening to "The Story" from Caedmon's Call In Company of Angels II such a simple truth I find woven into that song. towards the end of song Andy Osenga sings of "can you tell me the story.....I need to hear it again."

At times I find myself there needing the hear the story of my saviour again so it doesn't lose its wonder.

As I drove home tonight and took in the night I was reminded of the constitutionals about the streets Jeff City late at night and how I longed to be there again.

Dear friends, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.

Grace and Peace. <><

In The News

2006-05-04T22:17:00.000-04:00

Well as gas prices surge and the suits on Capitol Hill try figure out to fix the problem I sit here and think on current events such as high gas prices. Well for me I drive Saturn I get good MPG so I really don't have a quarrel about the price when I'm only filling up every 2 weeks or so.

In other news we saw Zacarias Moussaoui to life without parole yesterday. A debate arose from this. One side saying that he deserves to die....What I call the standard death penalty crowd. Then there are those that say he should spend the rest of his life in prison. This case is a special one cause it involves a follower of a very fundamental religion. According to radical Muslims Moussaoui dead at the hands of the "infidels" he would be a martyr and we would see even more deaths of American soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Yet could Moussaoui spending the rest of his life in prison might give the enemy the propaganda fuel to say that America doesn't have to guts to give one the death penalty.

I say let him spend the rest of his life in prison. He is on record saying he wanted to die so deny him his religious and personal victory and save the lives of American soldiers in the long run.

I'm interested in what you (those who frequent my blog think....??) please use the comments to their full and complete potential.

Grace and Peace. <><

Egg on my face

2006-04-28T20:52:00.000-04:00

Just when I boast about making good on posting in the month I let almost the entire month go by without posting.

Well after much thought and consideration I've decided to keep on track and head for Southeastern in the fall. After thinking about it for awhile the amount of money that church would probably be able to pay me wouldn't be enough to support and I would get burned out early I feel my best course is to remain on track for seminary.

I've been working hard at the Slab recently got a raise so things are going well. Somtimes I feel like thats all I have time for is work, eat, and sleep. There are some days where I find myself wishing I was back at CNC just living the life of a college student...

well enough longing for what has already passed. I'm looking forward to the release of the Da Vinci Code. I've yet to read the book and I need to. Its just one of the those things that I think every christian should be aware of and know about.

Grace and Peace <><

Another Year Older

2006-04-03T14:25:00.000-04:00

As I write this it is now 20 minutes til I'm officially 24 and another year older and wiser. I must say that my theory is continue to play out as true.

That theory is this: Once you get past the ages of 16, 18, and 21 there are pretty much no more milestone birthdays I would say until the traditional 40th Birthday. I'm not saying that today is just another day. It gives me a chance to reflect on where I am and where I've come from.

One example would be that this time last year I couldn't say that I have a college degree. So I guess you can count that as something significant.

Last night was a wild night...considering the weather we had. I felt like I was at Boomsday and I was sitting right under the bridge with all the Lightning from the storms last night. I can always enjoy a good and strong Thunderstorm. But there is something about when they occur at night that just unerves me.

well I guess that's enough. Wow I've been on a roll for the month of April I'm 2 for 3 on posting in the current month.

*chuckle chuckle*

Such Power

2006-04-02T22:16:00.000-04:00

There are such things that demonstrate power an example of that would be my experience yesterday at Coal Creek Armory. I felt the power of both a .357 and a .45 hand-guns.

Then there is the ultimate power that is the power of God to work in a person's life when you think you've got everything planned/figured out God surprises you with the opportunity to serve way before the time that you had planned on serving him. Just goes to show ya that God knows best when it comes to your life.

I attended church this morning and the sermon spoke volumes to me. One of the words was about hypocrisy. That one should be able to say in public what they say in private. It was out of the book of Malachai. Intertresting note about this minor prophet that we are not sure of his name simply meaning that the word Malachai is hebrew "My Messenger"

sermon can be heard here

Descerning God's Will

2006-03-30T16:46:00.000-05:00

I've been on vacation from work this week which has been good its been nice to sleep late for consecutive days straight and not have to worry about working. After having dinner at church last night with my parents I came home and progressed with my evening as usual I could hear my mom checking the answering machine upstairs apparently there was something on it (I don't know I don't check it) she comes downstairs to find me and asks me if I've had any phone calls today I say and inquire as to why she is asking. she tells me to check the machine. The message on the machine is for me and it is from a man named Kevin Cook and he is from a church in Mascot, TN and they are looking to hire a p/t even a f/t youth minister. Immediately I went outside stared up at the sky and asked: "What are you doing?" like I may get a response.

So this definently presents an opportunity to serve even before I'm done with seminary and it also provides a job that I can have while in seminary however the plans were to go to Southeastern. So what I'm having to descern is this what God would have me do and in turn attend Southern Seminary via an extension campus.

I would very welcome your prayers in this matter and those of you have the gift of descernment please feel free to shoot me your advice to my email or feel free to call me however I would welcome any and all wisdom as I begin to consider my options.