So far, 2011 has proven to be a very interesting year, and I have seen Gods work in my life, as He continues to grow and change me. A few weeks ago I was thinking about things that I do not want to forget, of 2011 to date. In no particular order:
1. Flight - I have spent a lot of time traveling by air this year. In doing so, there have been missed or delayed flights that changes your whole day. I have met some pilots that look as if they were old enough to attend a high school dance. But what I don’t want to forget is the amazement of flight. To look out the window as the plane leaves the earth. To look at the earth at 10,000 feet and see what God has done, and feel so small but feel so LOVED by God.
1. Flight - I have spent a lot of time traveling by air this year. In doing so, there have been missed or delayed flights that changes your whole day. I have met some pilots that look as if they were old enough to attend a high school dance. But what I don’t want to forget is the amazement of flight. To look out the window as the plane leaves the earth. To look at the earth at 10,000 feet and see what God has done, and feel so small but feel so LOVED by God.
2. Family & Marriage – I had the opportunity to marry my youngest son Andrew to his bride Jamie. To see Jamie and her dad approach the altar, was ALMOST more that this old softy could handle. Spending an evening on the beach at Jekyll Island with my bride, sons, daughter in-loves, and Mikel was more that I deserve.
3. McGriddle – Without a doubt, the number 1 best American invention ever. I rediscovered the McGriddle on one of my business trips. Two small pancakes that have syrup flavor with pork, egg, and cheese in the middle. America I Love You.
4. Go Givers – I have had the opportunity to reconnect with people that have invested in me over the years. They have given me more than I could ever return to them. And God has used them to keep me focused and to have a thankful heart. Thank you.
5. Wave Sticks –Though it cost me a broken arm, the thrill of riding a 2 wheeled skate board for about 15 minutes was great… not worth it, but great.
6. Scott Naturals – toilet wipes. 2nd greatest American invention.
7. Tortoise and the Hare –weekly I get to read Tortoise and the Hare to Mikel my granddaughter. She is still amazed that the tortoise wins every time, and I love the 10 minutes I get to hold her.
8. New England – As God continues to prepare us for planting a Gospel Centered church in New England, I have even more opportunities to share the vision with other churches and Christ followers, and to make another visit to Connecticut. The burden and vision grows stronger as I talk with New Englanders. In the next few months, Lynn and I will attend church planting school at LifeSong Lyman, and visit Hartford County Connecticut. www.plantingthegospel.com
9. Church Family – God has blessed Lynn and me to be a part of a Movement of God at LifeSong Church Lyman. It’s been said that LifeSong is in the top 1000 fastest growing churches in America. But to serve with some other guys that just want to Love God and Love people swells my heart. To witness God Change in the lives of people at LifeSong, and realize that God NEVER slumbers or sleeps.
10. Coming Home – As mentioned earlier, there has been a lot of travel for me this year, which can stress a marriage. But there is nothing like getting home and seeing the smile of my best friend, lover, and having a cup of coffee on the front porch.
11. Atonement – Romans 3:25-26. Don’t ever say “God is Love” as if it doesn’t mean anything, or as if it at 1970s bumper sticker.
12. Justification – Romans 4:24-25. Don’t live your life as if it didn’t cost everything.