So nice

Just a quick thought out loud... it is so nice that it is the fourth week of the session, and I am all caught up on my school work... because I have officially graduated! The registrar has confered my degree and I should be receiving my diploma in the mail in the next couple of weeks.

But, the vacation from school may be short-lived. There is a distinct possibility that I will begin my graduate work in January, or at least take a class to stretch my brain :)

Skit to Lifehouse

This was on theBranch, and I thought it was great! Very moving... watch it through to the end.

A Joke is a Joke Unless Nobody is Laughing

A Joke is a Joke Unless Nobody is Laughing

Generally, humor is funny. Is that an obvious statement? Maybe—maybe not. Humor has taken many forms over the years. Humor has relieved tension, built relationships, and even unified previously estranged peoples. In general, psychologists view our ability to laugh at ourselves a sign of good self-esteem. It is okay, after all, to not be perfect.

A joke is a joke. We all joke about some stereotypical characteristic about some thing or some group. Cultural sensitivity and sense of timing is important; however, there is an “understood” limit as to when a joke is offensive. Not many of us can clearly define pornography, but we all know it when we see it. All nudity is not pornography; all jokes are not tasteless. A joke is just that—a joke.

Sometimes a joke is not a joke anymore. Over the years, our society has, in fact, drawn the line on certain types of humor in certain environments. For example, several decades ago, it was commonplace for men to joke around about slapping around their wives (or girlfriends). Obviously a detestable act, the country at large revolted against this kind of humor. It is no longer “socially acceptable” to use that kind of humor. Wife-beating has made it onto the list of other topics that—though at one time many people in our society considered them to be “funny”—are not a joke anymore. Whereas a joke about beating one’s spouse might get you dirty looks, make a joke about a bomb anywhere near a school or an airplane, and you could be looking at jail time. Sometimes, depending upon numerous varying characteristics, a joke is not a joke anymore.

The anatomy of a joke is complex. Although jokes can only be comprised of a limited number of combinations of several components—people, places, things, and animals—the results are infinite. Jokes can range anywhere between two extremes of a number of different continuums such as the clean-dirty, child-adult, innocent-insidious, specific-general, corny-clever, plausible-implausible, chaste-lewd… you get the picture. Furthermore, timing and delivery of the joke, the audience and the context all contribute to the joke’s overall humor value. Socio-political and socio-cultural norms as well as laws may also play into the jokes overall humor value.

Considering Jeff’s jokes were currently socially acceptable, stereotypical, clean, innocent, plausible, chaste, gender/hair color-based delivered in writing to a general audience of educated (or getting there) people who are charged with forgiveness, love and humility, under circumstances where a representative from the allegedly offended group first passed these jokes to Jeff, I think a survey of 10,000 Americans (blondes included) would reveal that blonde jokes are still acceptable and funny in most situations and under most conditions with the possible exception of funerals and Marilyn Monroe conventions.

However, if we go to the extreme by banning all jokes pertaining to hair color, the following subjects of jokes are now off limits as well: ethnicity, gender, age, relationship status, income, height, weight, and any reference to the size of any body part including, but not limited to the eyes, nose, ears, mouth, feet, hands, etc.; the ability (or lack thereof) of eye-hand coordination, athletic ability, ability to sing, dance, draw, speak in public, write, or talk; all occupations, interests, hobbies, talents (or lack thereof) are off limits, as are anything to do with politics, religion, science, engineering or education; all jokes about, pertaining to, or containing references of animals, fictitious characters such as cartoons or superheroes, pop stars, politicians (local representatives to the president both in this country and internationally), movie stars or musical artists are forbidden; any humor directed toward the deceased or yet to come, the past, present or future, about anything that creeps, crawls or flies, anything below the surface of the ground, water or skin and anything below, within, or above the clouds or outer planetary atmospheres are also off limits; jokes repeated within and about certain industries such medical, engineering, law, restaurant, higher education, performing arts, psychology, theology, and business/organizational life (sorry Dilbert) are also forbidden; moreover, any and all references to any person, place, thing, animal or idea that someone may or may not have an unhealthy connection, association, or otherwise dependence on are also strictly prohibited…

Gimme a break!

In the final analysis, God enjoys humor. Since most of us are Christian, He should be our final authority on the matter. In fact, there is undeniable proof that God does enjoy humor and playing jokes… just look in a mirror. Enough said :)

Kyle

By the way, I am an Irish-German, short, overweight, bearded (sometimes), non-athletic, non-coordinated, fashionably challenged, four-eyed, slightly balding, mildly intelligent, moderately educated, partially asthmatic, newly Christian, politically confused, middle-aged, married man, who is only aesthetically pleasing to one woman (God bless my wife). I would love to hear your jokes… thanks in advance for your submissions.

Thank You

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=1545489532

The above link was posted to the TheBranch, and I just wanted to make a comment:

I have never served in the military. In fact, in my own young ignorance, I had a somewhat negative view of the military. My father served in the Navy during Vietnam, but he never talked about it. I don't think he "saw any action" per se, but nonetheless, I grew up in the post Vietnam culture, which unfortunately did not respect the military as it had done in the prior decades.

Today, I have a different view. While I do not necessarily agree or disagree with war in Iraq or the "War on Terror," I do stand behind the men and women who have sacrificed their daily comfort and safety for mine. After graduation, many asked, "What next?" It was at that point that I realized I had the choice to contemplate "What next?" For some, their next steps are dictated by the level of engagement in lands thousands of miles away. For me, I have a choice.

I have family and friends in the military. I am grateful that they are willing to put their lives on hold and on the line so that I can continue with mine. This notion places a deserving importance on the decision making process involving "What next?". While I will not argue theology here, I believe that God has provided us with the widsom as well as the responsibility to choose within his moral will, and that He will support and guide us as He always has and will continue to do.

In sum, indecision or decision by default is a terrible way to utilize our God-given and soldier-secured right to choose. In the end, our lives are the result of a series of decisions. While most of our decisions happen quite regularly and easily, major decision require (usually) a bit more thought. Who we will marry, where or if we will get our education, and whether or not we will choose to accept Christ are among the most impactful. If you are in a place of making major decisions, take your time to make a good decision, but also remember the sacrifice, privelage and responsibility you have.

Guitar Hero?

Over the course of my life, I have played (or attempted to play) a number of different intruments. I started with the trumpet (played for 3 years), moved to keyboard (played for several years), then the harmonica and guitar. I currently play the drums (not very well). The fact is, without talent (that's me), playing an instrument is hard!

I just ran across something called, "Guitar Hero." Apparently it is an interactive game that uses a guitar-controller to simulate playing a guitar. The on-screen personality mocks movements associated with song. It plays of the dance games you seen in the video arcade, where participants must (with amazing coordination) match the steps on a sensor pad to the music. In the case of the Guitar Hero, participants must hit keys on the fake guitar with as acurately as possible in accordance with the song they are attempting.

This kind of video game sure is a long way from my original Atari 2600 with Space Invaders! Check this kid out below... he is five years old and quite the expert.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yEjyuw42YY

Research Topic - A Fleeting Thought

An interesting thing happened this weekend... well, maybe not interesting; rather, it was unusual for me. I am in the Culminating Experience course (OLAM 486), which is essentially a research paper. On the surface, it is not so difficult, until you here the words... "What you do for your project is up to you." Sounds great? Not really.

It is much easier to be told what to do. Seriously! "Your assignment is a 50 page paper on ___________." Okay, I can do that. Thinking of a topic that is interesting enough, large enough (but not too large), yet one that is manageable is rather difficult. Why? Because there really is so much out there that is interesting!

Our task for the first week was to select a topic. Okay, after 2 or 3 submissions, I settled on servant leadership. In the second week, we start to get serious... the proposal, which is the 10-15 page document that describes what you are going to do and how you are going to do it as well as an annotated bibliography of the sources you wil use. In this phase, a research is supposed to let the research guide them; that is, see what is out there, what is really interesting, what has been beaten to death, or what needs more research. From that research, one narrows down the topic. For me, this was quite difficult.

So, we derive a research question: "Can servant leadership survive in a transactional world?" (This question actually came about in a collaboration from a previous class) It may seem simple enough, but in actuality, it was huge! Too huge! in a matter of days, I had more than 20 books and 100 articles, and I barely got into it. Okay, so obviously the scope of that project was not condusive to an 8-week class.

How about, "College students' understanding, perceptions, and use of servant leadership: An early indicator of whether servant leadership will survive the twenty-first century" Again... more focused, but still really, really huge. Okay, how can I do this.. think! Think! Ahaaaa...

Just chop the second half and be left with: "College students' understanding, perceptions, and use of servant leadership" - Now we are getting closer. Not sure if we are there yet, but better. Perhaps I should just take one of the three elements... understanding, perception or use? Not sure at the moment, but hopefully this will get all cleared up in the next 12 hours.

Home Stretch

Q: So, Kyle... now that you have graduated, what are you going to do now?

A: Take another class.

Yes, that is right. I am one of those "lucky" ones that still have another class to complete in the summer. OLAM 486 is its name and research and writing is the game... and lots of it. They call it the culminating experience, and I suppose it is, but I would have preferred commencement to have been my culminating experience.

This course should prove to be quite challenging. Time management will be a huge factor. I can't imagine trying to work full time, keep up two blogs, write for a magazine, build a web site, maintain relationships, bathe once in a while, sleep once in a while, pray a whole lot (becuase you know I can't do it by myself) and do this last class. Well, okay, everything is true except for the bathing... I do that every day--honestly.

The logical progression of leadership theory from 1900 to the present.

There are nine major theories that comprise the progression of leadership theory from 1900 to the present, including trait, style, skill, situational, contingency, path-goal, LMX, transformational and servant (Northouse, 2004). These theories developed logically in that they first focused on the leader as an individual, then on the situation or context, and finally on others and the dynamics of the leader-follower relationship.

First, theories focused solely on the leaders. Trait, skills and style theories respectively examined leaders’ characteristics, capabilities and what they do (Northouse, 2004). Trait theory is often referred to as the “great man” theory, suggesting that leaders were inherently endowed with favorable attributes through genetics or birthright. Skills theory focused on the leaders’ abilities, suggesting as set of competencies was most important. Style theory again focused on the leaders but more on their behaviors and whether those behaviors were more task or relationship oriented.

Next, theories centered on the leaders’ adaptation to situation, context of leadership, or the followers they were leading (Northouse, 2004). Situational leadership focused on appropriate tactics or style adaptations for the situation, contingency theory choosing appropriate leaders based on a fit between their styles and the contexts in which they were to lead, and path-goal theory focused on leaders’ adaptation to use the style that most appropriate meet their followers’ motivational needs (Northouse).

Finally, theories began to focus the dynamics of the leader-follower relationship. Leader-member exchange (LMX) theory examines the “interactions between leaders and followers” (Northouse, 2004, p. 147) and transformational leadership theory examines how leaders and followers are changed through the process and relationship of leadership. Servant leadership suggests a radical change in the perspective of the leaders toward those who follow in that leaders should lead by serving followers rather than being served by them.

Jesus Christ advocated servant leadership: “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Luke, 9:35) and “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). Like many of our own journeys, we often begin self-centered, thinking about how we can become “great men” through whom we are or what we can do, only to realize that greatness in life and leadership is ultimately found in being others-centered—through service.

References
Northouse, P. G. (2004). Leadership: Theory and practice (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

Discussion posts

I was just thinking of those wonderful discussion board posts that we all do for our classes. In a few hundreds words... explain or articulate this or that. Honestly, it takes me at least a good hour or so to write a good post. I am not talking about the first bit of nonsense that comes to mind; I am talking about thoughtful prose that really answers the questions posed by the instructors.

There a few things about those posts I must dwell upon. First, I wonder how many of our classmates read them? If the responses received are any indication, not many. Second, am I the only one spending quality time with them? It seems that posts come easier to others. One classmate said they spend about 15 minutes on a post. Last, are these posts really a good substitution for classroom interaction? My guess is no. That post that took me an hour to write would have only taken me 3-4 minutes in class to articulate. Moreover, I would have seen the expressions on my classmates' faces instead of wondering if anyone even "heard" me.

Discussion board posts are great; however, I think it would be better if we moved toward "audio" posts--audio messages recorded and posted by students. This would take less time and do a better job recreating the characteristics of classroom interaction.

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Commissioning

“This service is a very special time dedicated to worshiping God and commissioning our graduates to take the training they have received through Regent into the marketplace and world to make a difference for Christ”

Commissioning and Commencement often get confused. Even internally within Regent when speaking about two events, the opposite word will slip out. So, I thought I would take a moment to breakdown what commissioning is all about solely based on my interpretation of the preceding description.

First, we are there to worship God. In everything we do we should worship God. The way in which we speak to people, fulfill the duties of our jobs, and raise our children are all ways in which we can worship Him by fulfilling His commands.

Second, “commissioning” means to grant authority to someone. We are being granted the authority to move into the world on Christ’s behalf. We have studied and learned as apprentices, but it is now time to take that training and make a difference.

Third, we are taking our training into the marketplace. That marketplace is in not just mainstream business, but the marketplace of interaction within our communities and families. Anywhere there is exchange of goods, services, or ideas can be a marketplace. This broad definition places us in the realm of responsibility 24 hours each day.

Last, we are taking our training, into the marketplace, to make a difference for Christ. Not for each other, not for pride, not for material possessions, but for Christ. We are not only granted the authority but we are charged with changing the world. We can change the world one person at a time if necessary, but it can and will change.

Just as our students have received and followed a call to study our respective fields from a biblical perspective at Regent University, so now our graduates are charged with engaging in their fields with the same perspective. So, go forth bravely into this needy world, dear graduates. Go forth with your authority and your mission, and change the world for Christ.

Horrendous Heat & Humidity

As summer weather steadily approaches, I am reminded of when my wife and I first moved here to Virginia nearly two years ago. We moved on a day that seemed to be about 95 degrees coupled with 95% humidity. At that rate, I prefer 4 feet of snow.

When we told people that we were moving to the Virginia Beach area, many people made reference to the sun and the beach. I said it then, and I will say it now, "I don't like the beach and I dislike the sun even more." Summer in Virginia Beach is about as exciting as winter in Siberia. In addition, this area of Virginia has another glorious perk... humidity and lots of it. Performing simple daily tasks such as walking to the mailbox or taking out the trash now mean catching a shower and a fresh change of clothes. It is so humid in this area, if you took a drinking glass, held it out away from your body, and spun around about a dozen times, you would have a glass of water. In the final analysis, I guess I am a native Buffalonian in mind and body. Final thought: I can't wait for October.

Our ever-changing world

Turn on your sound and sit back to watch, think, dream, and pray for our future. The rate at which the world is both expanding and shrinking at the same time is incomprehensible. http://www.glumbert.com/media/shift

Baby Got Book

Just in case anyone has not seen this before:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTYr3JuueF4

Jesus Picture - Production

Wow! What a production. I think this would be phenomenal to see live.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M4_IlbaZHA

Jesus Picture

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kijvepozdw

Exercise Before Tee Time

For some reason, it always amazes me how much my body can hurt. I seem to always surprise myself when simple activities can wreak havoc on an otherwise sedentary body. As a student, much of my time is spent sitting, reading, surfing the net or just clicking away at the keyboard. As a full-time employee working in an office, the activities are remarkably similar. This weekend was just another and literally painful reminder of just how important exercise is. After eighteen holes of golf (walking the course and carrying the bag of clubs) and a large bucket of balls at the driving range, I began to wonder if my muscles could conceivably be any more sore.

Last year, I took up golfing. I used to make fun of the sport; after all, how much fun could it be to hit a little white ball hundreds of yards and then chase after it? However, after the finer points of the game were explained, and after I experienced the thrill and exhilaration of chipping in a shot from forty yards out, I was hooked. Moreover, having only a few experiences with golf in my life prior to last year, I was told that my game was very good—not Tiger Woods good, but good for a beginner. By the end of the first year, I broke 100. In sum, I played only 81 holes in 2006—just four and one-half rounds, but I plan to play as long as my body will allow. This thought fosters the sad realization that while golf is not as rigorous as football, it is physically demanding.

Believe it or not, golfers are prone to injury. According to golf fitness instructor, Sean Chocran, more than fifty percent of all golfers will incur a lower back injury sometime in their golfing careers (1). In addition, this likelihood can be greatly reduced through proper fitness, including certain exercises designed to strengthen the lower back and increase flexibility. Apparently amateur golfers’ swings are simply inefficient; thus, use more of the lower back muscles and place more pressure on the spine to generate the force required to drive a golf ball a respectable distance (2). Because golf is a fairly rigorous activity, particularly if one walks the course while carrying his or her bag of clubs, golfers should keep fit.

Keeping fit is relatively easy. A regimen of basic stretches, light cardio, and light strength training can reduce injuries and even help golfers improve their game. Focus stretching on the back, core muscles, and the shoulders is important. Light cardio will help build stamina for those long courses, and strength training could lead to more efficient swings and less demand on players’ backs. However, if you want to play like Tiger Woods, prepare to spend more time getting in shape. “When he is not competing, Woods typically spends three or four hours a day, five times a week, in the gym” (3).

Whether you are just a weekend golfer like me or aspire to someday be a seasoned pro, exercise is an important part of improving your game and preventing injuries. While you don’t have to commit to a regimen like Tiger Woods, regular workouts designed to increase strength, stamina and flexibility can not only keep you on the course long, but also make that time much more enjoyable. Happy tee time.

References

(1) Cochran, S. (2007). Injury prevention exercises for the lower back. About.com. Retrieved April 1, 2007, from http://golf.about.com/library/weekly/aa090806a.htm
(2) Cochran, S. (2006). Lower back injuries in golf. PGA.com. Retrieved April 1, 2007, from http://www.pga.com/improve/features/cochran_blog/20061004lower_back.cfm
(3) Kaspriske, R. (August, 2004). Tiger’s workout revealed. GolfDigest.com. Retrieved April 1, 2007, from http://www.golfdigest.com/features/index.ssf?/features/gd200408tigerworkout.html

Make a Difference

Make a difference in someone life.

http://www.makeadifferencemovie.com/

Pray it Forward?

The following message was recently posted to the branch:

"What would happen if each family prayed and fasted for another family? What would happen if each student prayed and fasted for another student? What about Mothers for Mothers and Fathers for Fathers, or husbands for husbands and wives for wives? Think what could happen should men start lifting up men and women start lifting up other women to God? Then what about children bringing other children before the throne of God? What if Regent Village prayed and fasted for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on each home? What if we did this for a day, then regularly? Whatever is in your mind right now is what would happen, and more. Yes we would see a revival! I just felt impressed to put this out there." -- Philmore James

---

This is a nice image—people lifting each other up to God in an unselfish desire to see others feel the power of God in their lives. Embracing the idea that we could start a revolution, previously dubbed "revival," for everyone to experience an outpouring of the Holy Spirit is wonderful. I have wondered these things as well. I think the reminders of the sinful nature of our humanity are so pervasive we may sometimes forget the power of corporate worship and prayer. Jesus proclaimed, "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." I wonder how much proximity matters? It probably doesn’t.

This image of people praying for each other "naturally" brings wonderful thoughts to mind. I can imagine the transformation that would take place in everyday life. The exponential nature of one person praying for a few others ad infinitum is astounding. I am reminded of one of my favorite dramas, Pay It Forward, where Trevor McKinney (Haley Joel Osment) incites a movement in which one person picks three people for which to do one big unsolicited favor, and then instruct them to "pay it forward" to three others, rather than pay the favor back. Honestly, each time I watch the movie my eyes well up with tears as I think of how things could be. This movie, as well as the notion of revival, taps into my idealistic tendencies and altruistic desires.

So, who is going to start? Who will stand up and take the lead? Maybe it should be you. Maybe it will be? But in case it is not, here is a prayer for you—the one reading this post (of course, this assumes that someone will read my post).

Heavenly Father, we more than just welcome your presence into our lives—we need it. Lord, I humbly ask that you touch the person reading this right now. I pray that you reach into his or her heart and make your presence and love known. If it is in your will, let the power of your love convict this person to spread your love to others. Father God, please protect us, love us, and move us in your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The ball is in now in your court. Let us pray that this does not become one of those things that only happen in the creative minds of Hollywood. Better yet, let us do something about it right now. Pick three people right now for whom you will commit to pray—and then just pray it forward.

Keep Your Fork

There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live. So as she was getting her things "in order," she contacted her pastor and had him come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes. She told him which songs she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and what outfit she wanted to be buried in.

Everything was in order and the pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her.

"There's one more thing," she said excitedly.

"What's that?" came the pastor's reply.

"This is very important," the young woman continued.
"I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand."

The pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say.

"That surprises you, doesn't it?" the young woman asked.

"Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request," said the pastor.

The young woman explained. "My grandmother once told me this story, and from there on out, I have always done so. I have also, always tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement.

'In all my years of attending church socials and potluck dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork' It was my favorite part because I knew that something better was coming...like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with substance!' So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder "What's with the fork?" Then I want you to tell them: "Keep your fork ... the best is yet to come." The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman goodbye.

He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death. But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of heaven than he did. She had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge. She KNEW that something better was coming.

At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and they saw the pretty dress she was wearing and the fork placed in her right hand. Over and over, the pastor heard the question.

"What's with the fork?" And over and over he smiled. During his message, the pastor told the people of the conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her.

The pastor told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either.

He was right.

So the next time you reach down for your fork, let it remind you ever so gently, that the best is yet to come.

And remember to keep your fork.

The Room

The following is from an email that was circulating last year. It is a little long, but well worth the read. Read this for yourself, then read it for others. Whenever I read it, multiple feelings overwhelm me. I hope this touches you in some way... Kyle

______________________

Procrastinating as usual, 17-year-old Brian Moore had only a short time to write something for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting. It was his turn to lead the discussion so he sat down and wrote. He showed the essay, titled "The Room" to his mother, Beth, before he headed out the door. "I wowed 'em." he later told his father, Bruce. "It's a killer, It's the bomb. It's the best thing I ever wrote." It also was the last.

Brian's parents had forgotten about the essay when a cousin found it while cleaning out the teenager's locker at Teary Valley High School. Brian had been dead only hours, but his parents desperately wanted every piece of his life near them - the crepe paper that had adorned his locker during his senior football season, notes from classmates and teachers, and his homework. Only two months before, he had handwritten the essay about encountering Jesus in a file room full of cards detailing every moment of the teen's life. But it was only after Brian's death that Beth and Bruce Moore realized that their son had described his view of heaven. "It makes such an impact that people want to share it. You feel like you are there," Mr. Moore said.

Brian Moore died May 27, 1997 - the day after Memorial Day. He was driving home from a friend's house when his car went off Bulen-Pierce Road in Pickaway County and struck a utility pole. He emerged from the wreck unharmed but stepped on a downed power line and was electrocuted.

Brian seemed to excel at everything he did. He was an honor student. He told his parents he loved them "a hundred times a day", Mrs. Moore said. He was a star wide receiver for the Teary's Valley Football team and had earned a four-year scholarship to Capital University in Columbus because of his athletic and academic abilities. He took it upon himself to learn how to help a fellow student who used a wheelchair at school. During one homecoming ceremony, Brian walked on his tiptoes so that the girl he was escorting wouldn't be embarrassed about being taller than him. He adored his kid brother, Bruce, now 14. He often escorted his grand-mother, Evelyn Moore, who lives in Columbus, to church. "I always called him the "deep thinker", Evelyn said of her eldest grandson.

Two years after his death, his family still struggles to understand why Brian was taken from them. They find comfort at the cemetery where Brian is buried, just a few blocks from their home. They visit daily. A candle and dozens of silk and real flowers keep vigil over the gravesite. The Moores framed a copy of Brian's essay and hung it among the family portraits in the living room.

"I think God used him to make a point. I think we were meant to find it and make something out of it," Mrs. Moore said of the essay.

She and her husband want to share their son's vision of life after death. I'm happy for Brian. I know he's in heaven. I know I'll see him again someday." Mrs. Moore said. "It just hurts so badly now."

Here's the essay:

The Room...

In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room.

There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endlessly in either direction, had very different headings.

As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "Girls I have liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was.

This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match.

A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content.

Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching. A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed." The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird.

"Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told," "Comfort I have Given," Jokes I Have Laughed at." Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: Things I've yelled at my brothers". Others I couldn't laugh at: Things I Have Done in My Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents." I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were many more cards than I expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped.

I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to write each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature. When I pulled out the file marked "Songs I have listened to," I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of music but more by the vast time I knew that file represented.

When I came to a file marked "Lustful thoughts," I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded.

An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind:

"No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards. But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh.

And then I saw it. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With." The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand.

And then the tears came. I began to weep; sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes.

No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him. No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus.

I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one?

Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me. Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card.

"No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, and so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished." I stood up, and He led me out of the room.

There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.

This story is the best e-mail story I have ever read. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

My "People I shared the gospel with" file just got bigger, how about yours?

Fishy Illusionist?

So... how does he do it?

(You may have to click the play button twice to play the video)

Random Acts of Kindness

Regent University’s motto and essence is “Christian Leadership to Change the World.” The curriculum touted by the School of Undergraduate Studies challenge students to change the world through the influence of leadership. Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner, authors of The Leadership Challenge, offer us an often quoted definition of leadership: “A relationship between those who aspire to lead and those who choose to follow” (1). While this is fine for describing and analyzing the many facets of leadership in the typical leader-follower dyad; however, there exists another, more simplistic, yet just as powerful type of behavior—random acts of kindness.

According to wikipedia.com, a random act of kindness is “a purportedly selfless act performed by someone to either help or cheer up a stranger, for no reason other than to make people happier. Either spontaneous or planned in advance, random acts of kindness are encouraged by various communities” (2). Random acts of kindness come in many various forms, including monetary gifts, food, clothes, unsolicited favors, and gestures of service. Random acts of kindness are so pervasive, there is even several organizations dedicated to them, one of which is The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, whose mission is to inspire people to practice kindness and to “provide educational and community ideas, guidance, and other resources to kindness participants” (3).

One great aspect of random acts of kindness is that anyone can do them. Anyone young, old, or in between can be kind. Kindess is not a too used by the rich, nor is it a gift reserved only for the poor. Another characteristic is that random acts of kindness can be delivered in almost any situation. Whether you spend your time in an office, in your home, on the beach, or anywhere in between. Even further, random acts of kindness can be done at any time. You don’t have to wait for someone’s birthday, an anniversary, or Christmas. Random acts of kindness can be done by anybody, any where, and at any time.

I did not decide to write this post out of the blue; very recently, I was the recipient of a random act of kindness. A kindred spirit recognized the value of initiating a random act of kindness. While the act was a monetary gift, her blessing and wish was simply to enjoy a meal with my wife. As many of you know, working full-time and taking classes full-time is not an easy balance. Sometimes the people in our lives can feel unappreciated or even neglected. The timing of this gift along with the specific blessing is nothing short of God-inspired.

An interesting thing happened with this random act of kindness. While at first I felt a little funny and unworthy of this person’s generosity, I began to realize that God blesses people in many ways. She was blessed with the joy of the random act, and I will be blessed to spend a nice evening with my wife. Moreover, however, I have a deeper understanding of God’s blessings, and a renewed spirit of my own giving to others. Random acts of kindness are a simple way to share God’s love.

So, have you ever initiated a random act of kindness? If so, how long has it been since you have? If not, why not? Consider initiating a random act of kindness today. Do it for someone you only casually know, or do it for a complete stranger. It does not matter. Help a neighbor mow their lawn, go out of your way to assist a co-worker, or bless a complete stranger with a random act of kindness. If you do, you will not only be a blessing to someone else, but you will assuredly be blessed.

References:
(1) Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2002). The leadership challenge. San Francisco, Jossey-Bass.
(2) Wikipedia definition: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Random_act_of_kindness

(3) Random Acts of Kindness Foundation: http://www.actsofkindness.org/

Image: Weinholds.org; http://weinholds.org/images/kindness.gif

Follow Your Dreams

Today was the last day for one of our Graduate Assistants. As gaining entrance into law school is quite a challenge, Kim has decided to leave her position in order to follow her dream and fulfill God's will by going to law school. Her dedication to just up and leave her position spawned a little poem that I wrote today, and I thought I would share it with you... (yes, I write poetry)

Follow Your Dreams

Every day you wake and every day you pray,
Open your eyes to the dreams,
That will bring glory to God today.

Every day you work and every where you look,
Open your eyes to the dreams,
That will alter the path you once took.

Every day you rest and every day you sleep.
Close your eyes and dream away,
For the dreams you have are the dreams you should seek.

Follow your dreams.

If you have dreams that for whatever reason you have set aside, consider investigating them a little further. You never know what kind of journey upon which God will lead you...

Convenient Commercial Conversations

You know what really irked me today, well I was not really perturbed, but I have to question the integrity of one particular morning radio show host. Are we really supposed to believe that these announcers really use all the products they say they do and in the way they say? Granted, celebrity endorsements are nothing new in the world of advertising, but the manner in which it is done, I think, really speaks to the integrity of the celebrity. For instance, there was an announcer this morning talking about Purina dog food. He said someone recommended it to him and that he noticed “immediate results” and that the dog “had more energy, a shinier coat” et cetera. It was obviously a plug for Purina, but I guess what irked me is the manner in which it was done.

Speaking in a conversational tone about some product that nobody really has “commercialized” conversations about is misleading. Those commercials were a group of women are talking about the latest pharmaceutical are ridiculous. A group of twenty-somethings chatting in a lovely living room about ____________ (you fill in the blank with your favorite wonder-drug). They are laughing and giggling. Conveniently, one girl has all the answers and the rest all ask pertinent questions that provide perfect segues to the next important point. In 30 seconds, listeners are completely educated about the wonder drug. This of course, is not really realistic.

Now, back to the unnamed morning radio DJ. He started talking about his trip he took to see his brother-in-law in Vermont or some place like that. This brother-in-law of course had a dog. The DJ explains that during a normal conversation he mentioned that his brother-in-law should get Purina because it will help his dog have more energy, etc. Apparently, the brother-in-law walks over to the cupboard and opens the door to reveal a bag of Purina. He then proudly states, “I have been a Purina dog owner for years.” – give me a break.

Now, if that was a planned and canned commercial—fine. However, not for a minute will I believe that this radio DJ had the conversation he said he had in the way he described. Who really talks like a television commercial? Now obviously this guy (or the radio station) is getting paid for this advertising, but how much would it cost to get their personal endorsement? What about you? Do you have a price at which you would publicly say you only use a certain product, even if you never tried it? Would you do it? Some people say that all is fair in love, war, and advertising… what do you think?

Image from The Petticoat Porch

Amazing Grace?

Recently, I received an email from my life group leader prompting us to rush out to support the new movie, Amazing Grace. Some of my Christian acquaintances have also "pushed" the movie. To these advances, I feel some sort of rebellion...

Why should I go pay my hard-earned money to go see a movie just because it has a Christian theme or was produced by a Christian? Is it not possible for a Christian to make a bad movie? Is God personally involved in the scripting, casting, and production of all Christian films? Is there some sort of eternal penalty for not seeing these movies of which I am unaware?

A while back, I also received prompting from my life group leader as well as other Christians to go see End of the Spear. I did eventually go see the End of the Spear, and it was a great movie. While I may decide to see Amazing Grace, I will not see it just because it is a Christian movie.

While I am certainly not opposed to Christian movies or films produced by Christian producers, I will not support it simply because it is Christian. There are a lot of things that are Christian that I do not support and should not feel "obligated" to support. Whether it is a dealership, a restaurant, a hairstylist, or even a university, supporting something simply because it is Christian does not seem to be a solid policy. Supporting quality products, services, and entertainment, however, makes sense to me.

Does this stance make me a bad Christian? Hardly. In fact, I think it simply makes me a discerning person who is willing to suspend immediate judgment based on the category in which something has been placed. I think this train of thought holds value in other areas as well…

Consider the others’ perceptions when they hear that someone is handicapped, old, young, a certain ethnicity, or even of a particular worldview. Many times, people will make assumptions and they will make quick value judgments that may ultimately either put them in harm’s way or prevent them from discovering the beauty in others, a potential friendship, or even more.

I guess the lesson here is we should try to suspend or initial judgments long enough to think critically and maybe open our hearts. If God can provide us with the grace to do that, life would certainly be even more amazing.

Image from Michael's "Optical Illusions and Visual Phenomena"

Death of a Friend

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape.

He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as: Knowing when to come in out of the rain; Why the early bird gets the worm; Life isn't always fair; and Maybe it was my fault. Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge).

His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.

Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer Caladryl, sun lotion or a band-aid to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.

Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.
Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust; his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason.

He is survived by his 3 stepbrothers; I Know My Rights, Someone Else Is To Blame, and I'm A Victim. Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.

- Original Author Unknown

Be still, and know that I am God

Have you ever been in that place where you felt as if you should do more with yourself but at the same time you were doing what you were supposed to be doing? A place where your daily toil does not seem to bring forth the harvest you think is should, yet you do not starve. Have you strolled through your garden of life, glanced at the plump fruits hanging from the trees and smelling sweet, yet you knew that they were not quite ripe? Like eager parents in the second trimester, a holiday approaching in a week's time, or a pie in the oven, the anticipation stirs your spirit, yet you agonize in counting the months, days, or minutes until the prize has arrived. Have you ever been so restless that any of your futile attempts to be patient seem to dissolve at the mere rustling of the wind?

In the moments just before God is ready to work in our lives, he wants us to be still. In those moments of humility we should decisively lay our lives upon God’s altar in dutiful obedience. In those moments before any great gifts are received, we should be ready to deny them in order to glorify His name. In those moments, when all seems lost or forgotten, when the sun’s light dims, colors dull, and food loses its sustenance, we should give thanks for air we breathe and know that He will provide. God is good. Be still, and know that He is God.

Psalm 46

Jesus Inside

"You'll find Jesus there," the boy interrupted.
The surgeon looked up, annoyed.

"I'll cut your heart open," he continued,

"to see how much damage has been done..."

"But when you open up my heart, you'll find Jesus in there."

The surgeon looked to the parents, who sat quietly.

"When I see how much damage has been done,

I'll sew your heart and chest back up and I'll plan what to do next."

"But you'll find Jesus in my heart. The Bible says He lives there.

The hymns all say He lives there. You'll find Him in my heart."

The surgeon had had enough. "I'll tell you what I'll find in your heart. I'll find damaged muscle, low blood supply, and weakened vessels. And I'll find out if I can make you well."

"You'll find Jesus there too. He lives there." The surgeon left.

The surgeon sat in his office, recording his notes from the surgery," ...damaged aorta, damaged pulmonary vein, widespread muscle degeneration. No hope for transplant, no hope for cure.

Therapy: painkillers and bed rest. Prognosis:...", he paused, "DEATH within one year."

He stopped the recorder, but there was more to be said. "Why?" he asked aloud. "Why did You do this? You've put him here; You've put him in this pain; and You've cursed him to an early death. Why?"

The Lord answered and said,"The boy, My lamb, was not meant foryour flock for long, for he is a part of My flock, and will forever be. Here, in My flock, he will feel no pain, and will be comforted as you cannot imagine. His parents will one day join him here, and they will know peace, and My flock will continue to grow."

The surgeon's tears were hot, but his anger was hotter. "You created that boy, and You created that heart. He'll be dead in year, Why?"

The Lord answered,"The boy, My lamb, shall return to My flock, for he has done his duty: I did not put My lamb with your flock to lose him, but to retrieve another lost lamb."

The surgeon wept. The surgeon sat beside the boy's bed; the boy's parents sat across from him. The boy awoke and whispered, "Did you cut open my heart?"

"Yes," said the surgeon.

"What did you find?" asked the boy.

"I found Jesus there," said the surgeon.

-Author Unknown

Message from Kyle:

Many things happen in life that we simply do not understand... the hardest part about accepting Jesus into my life was not understanding exactly how it all works. The best part, however, was finally having the faith to believe that it doesn't matter.

No Time to Be Human

In what seemed like only a few short moments, last Thursday, I lost a battle that I had waged against this year's bug. Yes, I actually became sick! For the first time in four years--to the day--I got sick. So what? Well, my "scheduled" life went into a mild tailspin.

By eight o'clock Thursday evening, I was literally too sick to type. Looking at the computer screen made my head feel as if there was a hot air balloon getting ready for takeoff inside (no jokes about my head being filled with hot air). I could not breathe, my vision blurred, and then I gave in. A little microscopic entity (well, in my defense there were probably millions of them) brought me down. Getting sick is one of the inconveniences of being human.

As a result, I missed my first discussion board post for one of my classes since beginning at Regent. The next day, I called in to work sick and dismissed any hope of doing anything more productive then sniffling, coughing, and dripping on my couch in front of the television. Most of the time, I was not even sure what I was watching. Over the weekend, I fell more behind on my school work and my reading, and even now that I write this post, I have more things to do. I was perturbed that my body chose this week to be sick. Ugh, the nerve! I simply don't have time to be human!

On the other hand, after as much whining as my wife could stand, and after as much sympathy as I could soak up, I began to pray--not for deliverance from my illness, but for the purpose. What is the purpose of getting sick? After all, God could have created the world without the flu bug, right?

Without inciting a heated doctrinal debate, I began to think of what I will admit is a shabbily supported theory...

Illness, frustration, anger, loss, sadness, and other negative emotions and experiences build our capacity to recognize, conceptualize, and realize everything positive in life that God has to offer. For instance, by Sunday afternoon, I felt much better--not well--but much better. In that perception of how I felt, I found energy. I found energy to do four loads of laundry, clean the toilet, Lysol the entire apartment, dust, and vacuum. Yet, in the preceding days, weeks, and months prior to my sickly experience, I did not have the energy or motivation to do any of those things.

To the extreme that we, as human beings can feel negative emotions, we can also feel positive emotions to the opposite position on the negative-positive feeling continuum. I wonder if this has any validity whatsoever? If it does, I have a great life ahead...

Years ago, before I accepted Jesus in to my life, life seemed very, very hard. I was always worrying, constantly fighting depression, routinely had strife, and the there was little joy in day to day living. However, since being reborn, everything has changed. I believe I am experiencing the feelings opposite of those I had prior. Joy, happiness, and a feeling of safety and acceptance are now a part of my daily life.

Had I not gotten saved, I wonder how far along the continuum I would have slid in the opposite direction? I suppose that if my capacity under God to feel the joy of the Lord's presence in my life is even one-tenth the capacity I had for negative, Godless living, then I am in for a wonderful, blessed journey.

So, the lesson learned is that in this temporal life, illnesses, sadness, and everything negative are not just temporary inconveniences; they also serve a good purpose. Whether or not you buy into my pet theory of building capacity or not is not my consideration. What I consider most is the joy of being a child of God and looking forward to all that my future holds... the joy and the pain, because each serves its purpose and in the end can be used to glorify God.

Pray with me for each other - Psalm 86

Steps in Walking by Faith

Nearly two years ago, God stirred my heart. I was working a rewarding, yet rather mundane job for Lakeland Community College in Ohio, a place that I was well known and well respected. I was still taking a few classes just to keep myself busy until starting at Myers University in Cleveland in the fall semester of 2005. For the most part, I was happy. Yet, each day that went by, I felt as if God had something different in mind for my life.

Still a fairly new Christian, I inarticulately asked God for direction—for help. Within two weeks, I met a person who began to challenge some of the assumptions I was making about where my life was headed. He asked about my college choice, intended career path, and plans for the next several years. I explained that I chose Myers because it was close to home, and I had received scholarships that would pay for nearly all of it. He challenged me to look outside the immediate area; however, I resisted.

Over several conversations with this person, I did begin to explore my reasoning for wanting to stay in the area. I had a job, a girlfriend (who I knew I would marry---someday), and we both had family and friends nearby. Yet, I felt a strong desire to explore my options, and one of those options was Regent University.

“Regent University? That is in Virginia,” I lamented. I had no desire to move, after all, I was fairly comfortable. Actually, I was in a serious “comfort zone.” Nonetheless, I did check out Regent. I had heard about them at a Phi Theta Kappa convention in California two years prior. The one thing that really stuck out at the time was how different the Organizational Leadership and Management degree was from the traditional Business Administration degrees touted by every other school in the country. The program intrigued me.

After more investigation and evaluating my options (online, on-campus, or a once per week commute) I figured the only way was on-campus, which meant moving—moving out of my comfort zone. I brought these thoughts to Laura, my girlfriend at the time, on May 20th, our four-year dating anniversary. It was that night that we decided to take a step in faith… that step meant finishing our classes, quitting our jobs, getting married, moving to Virginia, and starting school at Regent University.

Over the next two months, we executed our plan. We arranged and paid for our own wedding (August 6, 2005) and honeymoon (cruise to the Bahamas), conducted an inter-state apartment search, looked for employment in the area, and enrolled at our respective schools. I can truly attest that even though we had good event planning skills between the two of us, this was a huge undertaking. There was no way we could have done it without God’s help.

As I reflect upon that time, I realize that all the decisions we made were so right. All the details that needed to be in place found their way. Everything, including the many obstacles in our way, seemed to be “magically” removed, lifted, or otherwise handled. This was a major turning point in our lives. It was a great lesson in trusting God, and though we had to work hard to make it happen, we didn’t “worry” about the details. We simply knew it would all work out. It was our first true step toward walking by faith.

Since then, my wife and I have come to realize who is in control—and it is definitely not us. Sure, we make decisions, we plan for the future, and we work hard; however, we are now accompanied by God as our guiding light as we walk toward our future.

As I finish my degree here at Regent, I feel that there will be another big change. After receiving this education, I may be able to ask God for help a little more articulately than I could two years ago, but the fact remains that neither one of us knows exactly what our near future will look like. Will it mean continued employment at Regent University? Will it mean starting a family at the end of the year? Will we become more involved at church and in this community? Or, perhaps we will end up moving somewhere else.

The fact is that we do not know right now, and that is okay. God is in control. He brought us together. He brought us here to Virginia. In His time, he will let know what our next step will be… our next step in learning to walk by faith.

The History of Valentine's Day

"Be My Valentine." This is a phrase that conjures up a lot of different images associated with the celebration of Valentine's Day. Cards with hearts and little poems on them. Candy and flowers given to someone you love. And images of cupids flying around shooting their arrows of love into unsuspecting youths. Young and old alike expressing their affection for their sweethearts.

What we call Valentine's Day was at one time the Feast of St. Valentine. It was a religious holiday. Cupid was a character from pagan mythology. Originally, this holiday was a day to remember and celebrate the life and death of a Christian martyr.

According to church tradition St. Valentine was a priest near Rome in about the year 270 A.D. At that time the Roman Emperor was imprisoning Christians for not worshipping the Roman Gods. During this persecution St.Valentine was arrested. During the trial they asked Valentine what he thought of the Roman Gods Jupiter and Mercury. St.Valentine said they were False Gods and that the God that Jesus called Father was the only true God. So the Romans threw him in prison for insulting the gods.

While in prison Valentine continued to minister. He witnessed to the guards. One of the guards was a good man who had adopted a blind girl. He asked Valentine if his God could help his daughter. Valentine prayed and the girl was given her sight. The guard and his whole family, 46 people, believed in Jesus and were baptized. Because these people had come to know Jesus, Valentine praised God right there in his prison cell.

When the emperor heard about this he was furious that Valentine was still making converts even in prison, so he had Valentine beheaded. Valentine knew that he might get caught in his Christian activities. He knew that if he told the court the truth about the Roman Gods that he would be thrown in prison. And he knew that if he continued to witness to Christ in the prison he would make his captors angry. But he continued, because he loved the Lord and his fellow humans. He was willing to risk his life to free the prisoners and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ to those who needed to hear it. The Bible Says: "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."(John 15:13)

God showed us this love by coming in Christ to die for our sins. And St. Valentine demonstrated this love when he died for his friends. This is the kind of love that Valentine's Day is really about.

Originally written by Robin Nichols

Heaven's Grocery Store

Some people do not like to go to the grocery store. It can be time consuming and a hassle. However, there is a grocery store at which you may like to shop. Read below...

I was walking down life's highway a long time ago,

One day I saw a sign that read, Heaven's Grocery Store.

As I got a little closer the door came open wide,

And when I came to myself, I was standing inside.

I saw a host of angels, they were standing everywhere.

One handed me a basket and said, My child, shop with care.

Everything a Christian needed, was in that Grocery Store.

And all you couldn't carry, you could come back the next day for more.

First, I got some Patience, Love was in the same row.

Further down was Understanding, you need that everywhere you go.

I got a box or two of Wisdom, a bag or two of Faith.

I just couldn't miss the Holy Ghost, for it was all over the place.

I stopped to get some Strength and Courage to help me run the race.

By then my basket was getting full, but I remembered I needed some Grace.

I didn't forget Salvation, for Salvation that was free.

So, I tried to get enough of that to save both you and me.

Then I started to the counter to pay my Grocery Bill.

For I thought I had everything to do my Master's Will.

As I went up the aisle, I saw Prayer and I just had to put that in,

For I knew when I stepped outside, I would run right into sin.

Peace and Joy were plentiful, they were on the last shelf.

Song and Praises were hanging near, so I just helped myself.

Then I said to the Angel, now how much do I owe?

He just smiled and said, just take them everywhere you go.

Again I smiled at him and said, "How much, now do I really owe?"

He smiled again and said, "My child, Jesus paid your bill a long time ago."
_________________

Boy, someone took a great deal of time to think this one out! Some of you may recognize this from one of "those" emails that are sent around, so quite obviously, this is not a Kyle original.

This is the kind of story I hope to share with my children someday. Although it is written simplistically enough for a child to enjoy, there is a great deal of meaning behind this that adults can enjoy, too. I hope this little tidbit has blessed you.

Discipline

As I begin to ponder the totality of my college education, both at Lakeland Community College in Ohio as well as my time here at Regent, I realize that quite surely I will miss the experience and growth formal education facilitates. Some of the courses I have taken still replay in my mind, while others seemed to have fall through the cracks in my subconscious. Likewise, some of the teachers and professors that have given their time and talent will remain with me forever.

Reflecting upon some of those memorable courses and even more memorable instructors, I have begun to realize that much of education (particularly the first two years in liberal arts education) are as much about developing discipline as they are about learning the information, perhaps even more. Those classes are designed to introduce new ways of thinking, new skills, and new disciplines to (hopefully) eager minds.

Interestingly, six years ago I was at a time in my life when I knew I needed more discipline. I was in the midst of deciding between two life-changing paths: 1) go to college, or 2) join the military (U.S. Air Force). After much deliberation, I decided to forgo the military, and I began my post-secondary education at a community college in August 2001. While the military would have instilled in me a sense of discipline, I believe that I was called into education. Finally, through the rigors of approximately 200 credit hours, I have a small glimpse, dare I say a working conception, of what place discipline has in my life—and perhaps yours.

When many people think of discipline, negative connotations often come to mind. I used to think of strict schedules grounded in rigidity just for the sake of doing so. However, in recent times, my thoughts of discipline have changed.

In 1 Corinthians 9:25, Paul told us that “Everyone who competes in the race goes into strict training” (NIV). Discipline is the key to run the race so that you can finish well, and to run with purpose and direction. Paul admonished us to beat our bodies in order to make them our slaves, so that after we work for others, there is still energy left to live well. In this same sense, through disciplined study encountered in education we make our minds our slaves, so that we can use it to do God’s work, serve others, and live well.

Self-discipline is not some mystical-magical thing that only few people can possess; it is God-given to each one of us (2 Timothy 1:7). Unlike Esau, who succumbed to immediate gratification and threw away his inheritance, we must keep our eyes focused on our eternal prize—on our Father. Our enemy would have us be lazy and not do good works; thus, self-discipline is the battle against sin (Genesis 4:6-7), but we can look to the Lord for deliverance (Philippians 4:13). In the end, “Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in slave labor” (Proverbs 12:24).

Introduction

I thought my first post should be somewhat of an introduction. I am what educators call, "a non-traditional student." I am older than 25 (I will keep you guessing), and I had been out of school for quite some time between high school and the time I started at a community college in Ohio.

Originally, I hail from Buffalo, NY (a.k.a. the city that gets snow dumped on it several times a year). I also spent time growing up in West Springfield, MA as well as near Cleveland, OH. In addition to the school of hard knocks, I have attended three different elementary schools, three different high schools, as well as one community college prior to Regent; thus, I consider myself to have a wide educational background. :) After I graduate this summer, I plan to take some time off from school in order to focus on my next two goals in life... buidling a family and a post-school career.

I have had many different life experiences prior to coming to Regent University and most certainly many experiences before coming to Christ. My worklife has consisted mostly of restaurant management, sales, not-for-profit, and various other experiences. In my posts, I will often share some of these things with you - my faithful readers - and some of these things will remain between God and me (wouldn't want to ruin the mystery behind the man).

Nonetheless, I hope to share with you things that will make you think - think more, think differently; things that will make you consider - consider yourself, consider your walk with Christ, and consider others; and things that will make you laugh as well as things that will make you cry.

You may identify with my experience having traversed the road less traveled, or your journey may have been vastly different; yet, it is not important. What is important is that God has led us all here to Regent to live out His call upon our lives for His glory. I humbly submit these posts for your consideration, and I would appreciate your input on anything that comes to your mind and heart.

In Christ,

Kyle Graham