Rip Roaring Ready

Well, I am now back and rip roaring ready to go. The past 2 weeks have been a doozy as we had Spring Break and LTC to do. I have been busy as a little bee.

Being a newbie to LTC, I was not quite prepared for the sense of being overwhelmed by not only the size of the Hilton Anatole in Dallas (1606 rooms in all) but also the number of student and adult participants that filled the hotel with hustle and bustle. Now, normally this is my kind of scene, being a people person, but I had stuff to do. Stuff I had never done before. And I was extremely nervous. Thanks to the chaperoning parents that had been there, done that I was taken care of and after about 2-3 hours my anxiety dissipated. The following day was a day of fun and I got to sing with our song leaders and judge in the small drama event. Our students did well and no one took home anything under a Silver Award! I am very proud of my teens and tweens here in Marble Falls.

Last night, the evening service was lead by our young men that participated in LTC and our small drama group performed followed by the awards presentation for all involved. The congregation is very pleased with our students! They were a smashing success!!

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For a few days this past week, I subbed for the Choir, Music History and Music Theory classes at the Marble Falls High School. That is always a great time for me.

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Tonight, the Meat Eaters group begins our study of the Revelation of John with Greg Neill at the Mitchell Mansion. We'll be grilling out burgers and dogs in the newly fenced (6 foot cedar privacy) back yard of our home. I can't wait!

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I will post some pics of our little girl soon. She has been pretty fussy lately because she just won't stay asleep and she is tired all the time. The only 2 reasons she ever cries is from hunger or being tired. I know, it is wild that dirty diapers don't bother her. I don't know what to do about this sleep deprivation, though.

I Just Can't Help It

I am so happy as I watch my little girl grow that I just can't help showing these pics of her to you! Some of you may get tired of it but I am unstoppable!! Here are some of her crawling, smiling and sitting, rather wild-eyed I might add, in her new Bumbo! I love the Bumbo. She only stays in it for a little while before her neck gets tired, but I think she's doing pretty well for only 3 months old. She can also stand up a little. What a strong little girl, huh?

By the way, I am sorry for not blogging in a while. It has been getting busier every day here with LTC and Graduation approaching plus the 24 hours of Prayer (what a great time of bonding with the other men in this family!), the men's breakfast and the huge kickoff of the Capital Campaign for our new building project. All of which I haven taken part. A whole bunch of great stuff going on!!!

Great, New Quote

"Prayer is not a fitful, shortlived thing. It is no voice crying unheard and unheeded in the silence. It is a voice which goes into God’s ear, and it lives as long as God’s ear is open to holy pleas, as long as God’s heart is alive to holy things.” - E.M Bounds

Quote Of The Day

"God is waiting to be put to the test by His people in prayer. He delights in being put to the test on His promises. It is His highest pleasure to answer prayer, to prove the reliability of His promises." - E.M Bounds

The Pics I Promised

What A Day

This is the normal day that the Elders and Ministers meet for prayer and church business and I am pooped. We started at 9 and got out around noon. I have also chosen to mow and weedeat my yard this afternoon before singing with my good buds, Bryce and Dan, in our newly formed trio. What A Full Day!!

Be back later with some new pics of my daughter.

Bryce Gage

One of my close friends, Bryce Gage, has begun a blog! He is a worship leader here in our church family and he is one of the best Choir Directors that I have come in contact with. He has turned the Music Department upside down!! Here is the link to his site.

Who Is That?

Little baby girl loves to look at and talk to the sweet girl in the mirror. We don't think that she knows quite who that is yet. She just loves to be visited by the little cutie. I get misty eyed just thinking about my sweet girl. Isn't she adorable? (BTW Elizabeth took this picture-great shot.)

Off To Tyler!

Elizabeth, Jenniva and I are headed to Tyler this afternoon to spend some quality time with my bro-in-law, Jeff. He has recently moved there to work at a thriving nursery (for plants-not babies). He is without children and wife until the house is sold in Tallahassee so we are going to give him a warm Texas welcome!

My blogging will resume when I return. Til then, have a great time living to the fullest!

Bottom 3-Top 3

I really believe that the bottom 3 from American Idol last night was Stephanie, Phil and Sanjaya. I know that Sanjaya should go home. But will he?!?! He should have gone home ages ago, but somehow (possibly with the help of the Vote For The Worst website) he hangs in there. And the crying girl and the hug was all a bit staged for my taste.

The top 3 honors have got to go to Blake, Jordin and Chris R! They rocked the house!!!

What do you think?

Thoughts

Well, I am so excited for my mom!!! She has sold her house in Tallahassee and has found-put a contract on-and bought a house in the burgeoning town of Arp, Texas. That's right folks!! My mom and dad will be moving to Arp in April!! What a name for a town, huh?

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The time spent with our good friends, Jeremy and Aubri, was a little too fleeting if you ask me. We were able to catch up a little bit at the end of each day, but I look forward to another date when we can spend quality time together. Ahh... such is the stuff of youth ministry, though.

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Last night in Meat Eaters, we discussed the heavy import of Christian teaching, taming the tongue and discerning Godly Wisdom from that of the World.

The group is growing and getting quite mature in the Word.

I am proud of this intimate group that gathers every Monday night to dig into God's Message. They certainly know what is important in this world.

I hope and pray that soon others will grow up to this kind of passion and maturity.

Champions

My old friends, Jeremy and Aubri Geurin, are arriving this evening with 21 in tow from the Champions Church of Christ in Houston. They are here to trek and see the Longhorn Caverns. We are providing housing for them and the teens here in Marble Falls. I am so excited to see them and play some catch up. We will be spending some time with their group tomorrow night at the Bridges house with a bonfire, hot dogs, chili and S'mores! I can't wait!!!

Just want you all to know that I have a new account on Facebook. It is under Jimmy Mitchell-Austin, TX Area. Come see me over on that account if you like.

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Last Friday I wrote of places I have seen around the world. Today I would like to share with you the places that I would like to visit in the future:

1. Germany
2. Israel
3. Switzerland
4. Austria
5. Italy
6. Greece
7. Norway
8. Sweden
9. Denmark
10. Finland

I have been given the chance to live in some of these places in the past (namely 6-10), but due to my spiritual walk with God at the time (faltering), I respectfully declined. Now, I would like to take my sweet wife. If any of you readers out there have cool stories about any of these places, please send me some juicy stories.

Quote Of The Day

"Do you think Jesus ever got bored? If he did, it's not mentioned in Scripture. I tend to think that he was so engaged in life that he never had a chance to taste boredom. In fact, a case could be made that the ultimate spiritual taboo for a disciple of Jesus is boredom, especially boredom brought on by a didactic approach to faith. Jesus practiced a way of living that was visceral, vibrant and vigilant with meaning. His way of truth was a way of living. And his way of living is one that you or I would stand in line for, and ultimately give our lives for." - Leonard Sweet

Been There

I don't remember if I have done this or not, so here goes. This afternoon I want to list all the great places that I have visited and at which I have been privileged to stay awhile. Tomorrow, I will list some places that I long to see in the not-too-distant future.

1. Tahiti (7 months)
2. Brazil
3. Cancun
4. France
5. Canada
6. Hawaii

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Tomorrow afternoon, 12+ teens (from a group called Second Saturday Servants) and I will be going over to some low income housing and apartments here in Marble Falls. We will be giving out light bulbs that have been donated by many families in the congregation to any that need them. On each box of bulbs is a sticker that says:

From the Youth at Marble Falls Church of Christ

"In the same way, let your light shine before men,
that they may see your good deeds
and praise your Father in heaven."

Matthew 5:16

What's The Deal?

So, tell me what happened on American Idol! How on earth are Sanjaya Malakar and Haley Scarnato in the top 12?!?! I will admit that I have not been the biggest fan of Sundance but I am shocked and astounded that Sabrina went home and I think that Sanjaya should have packed his bags tonight. I am interested to see if those two leave in the next two weeks.

Subbing

Just a short note to tell you that I will be substituting for the Marble Falls High School Choir, Music History and Music Theory classes over the next few days and my blogging may be minimal through Thursday. I will be back on Friday. Til then here's a wild eyed baby shot:

The Temptation Equation

While I was talking to my new colleague, Greg Neill, about prepping for my devotional this evening on the first chapter of James, he shared with me an easy way to remember 1:15. Before I share it with the teens tonight, I thought I would pass it by my blog readers out there.

The Temptation Equation

Desire + Opportunity = Temptation

Desire + Opportunity + Action = Sin

Desire + Opportunity + Action - Jesus = Death

Thoughts

Happy March, everybody! Quick trivia question: This month was named after what mythological god?

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I now have a Facebook account. It is under Jimmy M-Austin, TX network. So go over and add me to your friends if you have an account.

Now it's time to look into MySpace.

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I spent the better part of today with one of my teens. Sean Luke and I had a great time of fellowship and freedom. Motto for today-You don't know what you got 'til it's gone.

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My sweetheart, little pea and I are heading to the Frank Erwin Center in Austin tonight to catch the Lady Mustangs duke it out with the Fort Worth Dunbar Lady Wildcats in the basketball State Tournament. Wow! What excitement!! Go Karla and Natalie! We're going all the way, baby!

Youth Ministry

"Youth ministry takes people who dare to be available for God and
allows them to rise to greatness for the sake of Jesus Christ.
Youth Ministry is grueling hours, continual heartbreak, a wretched
stomach, verbal abuse, money, time-time-time, loving the seemingly
unlovable, listening, caring, reaching out and praising God for
kids.

People in youth ministry as well as any other aspect of Christian
service must be searching for ways to be used by God to effect the
present and future. They are people who are dreaming dreams as they
reach for the stars and grasp the hand of there Creator while
walking with the Son.

Youth ministry is scrubbing floors, setting up tables, staying up
half the night struggling with a Biblical principle and coming to
grips with how to communicate this principle to the kids.

Youth ministry is whatever we allow God to do through us, the kids,
and those around us. It's helping a family through the tragic death
of a teenage son, the rape of a daughter, or the death of a mother.
It's struggling with someone as they wrestle with whether life is
worth living.

Youth ministry can feel like Heaven or Hell on earth. It is
watching kids grow in the Lord and giving in to temptation--it's
laughing with them and crying with them. Youth ministry is living
in the midst of their heartaches, failures, victories and struggles
during which you're praying God will give them the strength and
stamina to stand before the world and claim Jesus Christ as their
Lord.

Youth ministry is a way of living not a job, party, program or
Sunday School class. It's allowing God to have and use our total
being to touch the lives of hurting, crying, love- starved teens as
they grow into adulthood."

- Mike Lewis

Jenniva's Smile

I told you a few blogs ago that I would post a picture of little sweet girl's new smile. I am so excited to see her grow and learn from day to day. How did you feel when you saw the 1sts in the lives of your babies?

The Enemy?

I was reading the blog of an old friend from Harding School of Biblical Studies and was happy to see something written that has been on my mind quite a bit lately. Non-Christians. How to deal with them once we realize that they are not the enemy. They, like us, are in desperate need of God's love and grace. So, if we know that, why do we bash them? Because we've got it all wrong. Look at the words of my friend, Brian Tipton:

Entanglement

I hate Christian radio. At least I did yesterday. I was listening to the radio yesterday while driving home, scanning for something interesting, and found something I did not expect. Each station, that wasn’t playing music, had someone on their giving the world around us a tongue lashing. One person said,

“These people are evil.”

Another sound byte was,

“They are the problem with America.”

And I could multiply the quotes on and on and on. I don’t think this is how Paul engaged the world. I know it is now how Jesus engaged the world. It is true that Jesus and Paul and Peter and every other prophet in the Bible did engage the world and call them back to God. It is interesting to note, however, that the only vitriolic attacks in the Bible initiated by a prophet of God, to my knowledge, were directed at the religious leadership of God’s community and not the people in the world.

There is a mistaken notion in some Christian circles that our mission is to evangelize the world’s systems, i.e., political, social, etc., so that those systems become subservient to the sovereign reign of God. People, in the name of Christ, support other countries political activities or fight against them, endorse political candidates, invade school boards so that Christian ideals can be taught, and work feverishly to change the world in which they live through the systems in place in the world. But that is not our mission.

Our mission is not to change the world. Our mission is to change the people in the world. We are to lead people in the world to know Jesus. As people change, the world changes, but only when people in the world come to know God and live their lives accordingly.

John wrote,

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him, because all that is in the world (the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the arrogance produced by material possessions) is not from the Father, but is from the world. And the world is passing away with all its desires, but the person who does the will of God remains forever. (1 John 2:15-17 - emphasis mine)

The way the world will be conquered is by God and only by God (try reading Revelation some time). The only thing that will transcend this world is “…the person who does the will of God…” (1 John 2:17) Perhaps the church would be better served by people who are concentrating their efforts on transforming their lives and leading others to Christ than those who have focussed their efforts on single handedly saving the world. The allure of political power is deceptive and leads to entanglement. The wise will resist the urge and follow our exemplar, Jesus.

What do you think?

First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanks be offered on behalf of all people, even for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. Such prayer for all is good and welcomed before God our Savior, since he wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)

New Link

One of my favorite people, Mike Knappier-he married Elizabeth and me-he is also a mentor of mine-has begun a blog! Take a look at it here or on my links list.

Where In The World Is Jimmy Mitchell?

Some readers of my blog have probably given up on me.

And with very good reason-I just have not been around much lately.

Many of you out there can attest to the fact that parenthood is taxing and time consuming. Still others of you can agree that parenting coupled with ministry is more than a 24-7 gig. Even fewer of you can concur that throwing ministering to youth into the mix is an ever formidable task! That is where I am, my friends. And these times, they are a-busy!!

Well, now that that's off my chest, I would like you to pray for a few things:

Kellie U, one of our teens, is recovering in the hospital from surgery. Monday afternoon, doctors went in to remove a cyst from one of her ovaries. While in there, they found 2 more. She is in good spirits but we are all anxiously anticipating the test results. Please keep her in your prayers.

My Mom, Dad, Sister, Brother-In-Law and 2 Nephews are moving to Tyler, TX in the next few months!! They will be only about 4 and a half hours away. A lot better than 14 hours! Both houses have been sold and now we're just waiting for the buyers to move in. Please pray for safe moving and that my mom can get a nice nursing job in the Tyler area.

That is about it for now. I'll be back with more pics of our sweet girl.

Idol

I have 2 names for those of you out there that are watching American Idol this year: Chris Richardson and Blake Lewis. I like both of them and I believe that they have what it takes to go on. In a group of bland male singers (what a bad group this year, huh?) I have a feeling that they are the standouts for this season. Chris Sligh is funny and thinks a little out of the box. Sanjaya Malakar has a nice voice and good stage appeal, but I think he needs to overcome those nerves to really win us over. What think you?

Firsts!

Our little Jenniva has had several firsts recently and I thought that I would share them with you, dear blogreader! She has given us her first smile! It melted our hearts when she looked up at her Mommy and Daddy and gave us that toothless grin. She has also found her thumb. When you see the pic, you might think it strange but it is how she sucks her thumb. While I am typing my wife is getting a pic of the NEW way she sucks her thumb. I will include that pic as well.

More of Jenniva Elizabeth

Here are some more pictures of our little baby girl! She is so sweet and peaceful. Here is the big question, though: Who do you think she looks like? Email me or post a comment with your answer. I would be interested to know what you think.

Still Alive!

Just thought that I would let you know that I am still alive and kickin'! Elizabeth and I have had our world rocked by the new addition. Up is down and down is up; day is night and night is day-and so on...

Don't get me wrong. Jenniva is the light of our lives and we couldn't be more excited about everything right now. But any of you that are parents know what it's like to not sleep throught the night and try to soothe a crying baby when you don't know the reason that they are crying. It's wild and tends to make one weary. We love every minute of it, though!

Now that there is more of a daily schedule in effect I will be blogging every week day. You can't get rid of me that easy!

Quote Of The Day

"The biggest difference between you and God is that God doesn't think he's you." - Anne Lamott

A blog for Aunt Ruth Ann

This is for you, Aunt Ruth Ann! Here are some more pictures of our sweet girl. I do not have your email address and I want to send you more. Please send me your email address. There are plenty more where these came from. We miss you and wish we could just hop in the car and drive over. I hope that we can get together soon and show off our little bundle to her great-aunt Ruth Ann! In the meantime, enjoy these pics.

She Has Arrived!

Our little baby bundle of joy has arrived!
Elizabeth, her mom, and I were traveling to our regularly scheduled Dr. appointment this past Friday morning when Elizabeth started feeling some pretty sharp contractions. We all decided it would be good to pack some hospital overnight stuff just in case and boy did we make the right decision because Friday was the day!!!

Our Dr. called the hospital and told them we were headed over with a baby on the way. We got there and about 5 hours later a little Mitchell was in the world! We are so excited, exhausted, overjoyed and overwhelmed! The mixture of emotions make for a giddy daddy and mommy!! Here are some pictures of the sweet little girl.

Jenniva Elizabeth Mitchell
Born: January 5, 2007
Weight: 8 lb 5.5 ounces
Length: 20.5 inches
Hair: Full and Dark

Perpetual Resolution

"Let this coming year be better than all the others. Vow to do some of the things you've always wanted to do but couldn't find the time.

Call up a forgotten friend. Drop an old grudge, and replace it with some pleasant memories. Share a funny story with someone whose sprits are dragging. A good laugh can be very good medicine.

Vow not to make a promise you don't think you can keep. Pay a debt. Give a soft answer. Free yourself of envy and malice. Encourage some youth to do his or her best. Share your experience, and offer support. Young people need role models.

Make a genuine effort to stay in closer touch with family and good friends. Resolve to stop magnifying small problems and shooting from the hip. Words that you have to eat can be hard to digest.

Find the time to be kind and thoughtful. All of us have the same allotment:24 hours a day. Give a compliment. It might give someone a badly needed lift.

Think things though. Forgive an injustice. Listen more. Be kind.

Apologize when you realize you are wrong. An apology never diminishes a person. It elevates him. Don't blow your own horn. If you've done something praiseworthy, someone will notice eventually.

Try to understand a point of view that is different from your own. Few things are 100 percent one way or another. Examine the demands you make on others.

Lighten up. When you feel like blowing your top, ask yourself, "Will it matter in a week from today?". Laugh the loudest when the joke is on you.

The sure way to have a friend is to be one. We are all connected by our humanity, and we need each other. Avoid malcontents and pessimists. They drag you down and contribute nothing.

Don't discourage a beginner from trying something risky. Nothing ventured means nothing gained. Be optimistic. The can-do spirit is the fuel that makes things go.

Read something uplifting. Deep-six the trash. You won't eat garbage – why put it in your head? Don't abandon your old-fashioned principles. They never go out of style. When courage is needed, ask yourself, "If not me, who? If not now, when?"

Look at the person you have blamed for your unhappiness, and ask yourself was the criticism legitimate? Did I do anything to help them or did I just decide I am better than he or she and walk away?

Walk tall, and smile more. You'll look 10 years younger. Don't be afraid to say, "I love you". Say it again. They are the sweetest words in the world."
Ann Landers

Quote For The Coming Year

“I am the new year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.

I am your next chance at the art of living. I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months.

All that you sought and didn’t find is hidden in me, waiting for you to search it but with more determination.

All the good that you tried for and didn’t achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires.

All that you dreamed but didn’t dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have—these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose.

I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, "Behold, I make all things new."
Anonymous

Getting Ready

This morning, my sweetheart woke at 6:45 to babysit a real baby. She is taking care of Lela, a 7 and a half month old today with her mom. They are both getting ready for the real thing that is due on January 9th (or if El had her way...today). It was sweet to see the little girl look at me and smile that cute and innocent smile. It melted my heart. I am so excited to be a Daddy!

In related news-Well, I guess I have to share this with you and maybe get a little feedback from parents out there. I have been waking up in the middle of the night for the past few nights with knots of worry in my stomach, questions racing through my mind-"Will I be a good Christian father?" "Will I be there for her and her needs?" Will I teach my little girl that God is love and that her life is His?" "Will I help her to truly know Jesus?" All of this has been coming to me at around 2:30 or 3:00 in the morning. I am nervous and a bit scared. If you have any thoughts on this as mothers and fathers out there, please help me out by comment or email.

Happiness

I'm happy because...

Our new preacher-man has moved in and begun his ministry with us here in Marble Falls. I am ready to go to work with him.

Last Sunday evening 22 of us traveled to Gateway Villa to carol, hand out homemade Christmas cards and spread cheer with the elderly folk there. It brings tears to my eyes to see their joy from song and visitation from our teens and tweens.

Last night new people came to study from God's Word at our house. Greg Neill was also there to impart his wisdom on John 17: "The Real Lord's Prayer!"

My baby is going to come quickly!

My Mother-In-Law is flying in tomorrow. My wife is jumping up and down about seeing her mom again. It makes me feel good when El feels good.

Christmas is around the corner. I love this time of year!!

Truth Is Truth

"Whatever you do, don't limit your reading to religious books. Read recent novels, old classics, biographies, short stories, essays, articles. Christians aren't the only ones speaking truth. Truth is truth, regardless of who says it." - Mike Yaconelli

For Future Youth Leaders

"If I can get the kids to see me as their buddy, then they'll open up their lives to me, I thought. Well, it worked-unfortunately. That summer, as an intern I had a bunch of spiritually marginal kids treat me like a buddy. But there was a wee problem: It put me in a position of impotence. I had earned their confidence, but I hadn't earned a place of authority in their lives, the right to speak to issues from a godly perspective. I was just one of them-no more. Ministry-wise it was a total dead-end.

I remember John; he was just a sophomore, but he acted much older. He had a quiet confidence that made him way cool. I admired his self-assurance and hung out with him, hoping to gain his favor, to get an in with him. It wasn't all about my wanting to be accepted-I wanted to have a spiritual impact on him, though I had absolutely no idea how I would do this or what it would look like. I listened to-and laughed at-John's off-color jokes, maybe making an "oh, behave" face occasionally. I compromised to win his trust, and I got it. He trusted me enough to let me into his life. But I had absolutely no spiritual impact on his life. None. Zip. Maybe even a negative impact.

The role of youth worker is not to be a buddy or pal. If you hang out with teenagers all the time and see them as peers and best friends, something is wrong with you and you shouldn't be in youth ministry. Sure, you'll befriend kids. But you're their leader, and that defines you as a different kind of friend. Yes, you'll hang out and talk about things other than Jesus. But your relationship with students, as chummy as it may seem at times, needs to maintain the foundational understanding that your reason for hanging is not to be a pal-it's to have a spiritual impact on their lives." - Mark Oestreicher

The Most Wonderful TIme Of The Year

The last few days have been a blur! If you will indulge me; I would like to recount them here for you, dear reader:

Saturday - The teens got together for the Progressive Dinner/Christmas Party.
First, we traveled to the home of Chris and Julie Bridges for appetizers (spiral sandwiches, chipotle cream cheese, chips and salsa). There we played Christmas Song trivia and tried to guess how many M&Ms were in the Christmas jar (1924, to be precise).

Then we headed over to Bryce Gage's house for caesar salad and cheese soup. The teens made christmas cards for the elderly at Gateway Villa (we will be caroling for them this coming Sunday evening).

The 3rd stop brought us to the Futrell's Christmas Extravaganza Abode (I have never seen a house so chock full of Christmas ornaments and decorations. It is quite a sight to see!) where we stuffed ourselves silly with brisket, corn pudding, coleslaw, beans and rolls, but not before we sang carols for our supper.

We finally wound down to the Jamar's residence where we drank hot cocoa, wassail and munched on roasted marshmallows and all sorts of cookies. There we gave away prizes to the winners of the trivia and M&M guessing game. We also held the Dirty Santa gift exchange. What a great night we had!

Sunday - The teens got together in the evening and went to see the Nativity Story at the Driftwood 8. Great movie!

Monday - Marble Falls Middle School/High School held their Christmas Choir Concert. The house was packed and there were 2 standing ovations. Several of our teens and tweens participated and many from the church family were there in the audience. Our own Bryce Gage has turned the music department around so quickly and so well that parents and teens are flocking in droves to support and join what they are doing. I am so happy to see a growing arts department! It takes me back to the good old days at BAHS where the Choir and Drama Departments held full sway over the community.

Tuesday - I caroled the Marble Falls High School hallways with the combined choirs in the morning and subbed for the rest of the day.

Today - Getting ready for the arrival of a new colleague this week. Greg Neill will be coming into town on Friday and officially begin his ministry here with us. I am looking forward to it! A little nervous+a lot eager=very excited!!

Jessieville Lions Beat Junction City Dragons 20-19!

And it's official! Jessieville (my old stomping grounds near the Village) took home their first ever state championship in football. The Jessieville Lions roared into War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock and ripped into the Junction City Dragons, beating them 20-19 in the chilly 20 degree weather. I am very proud of the team-including some of my former youth group, and coaches Don Phillips and Jamie Saveall. I know they are relishing the sweet taste of victory tonight! My buddy, Jim Gardner, called me to leave me some exciting news of the win. We are proud of their awesome achievement! If only we could have been there to share in the excitement!

Baby Update

Here is a quick baby update on little "Pepo" as El and I have taken to calling her. Yesterday, El and I traveled to Georgetown to meet the delivering doctor for the 1st time. He is a great guy and put El's fears of possible preeclampsia to rest with a thorough battery of tests and a great bedside manner. He did a songogram on El and made a dvd of pictures and several 3 second videos of the little one. She has El's nose and lips! She is already a cutie! We are both very impressed with Dr. Matt Romberg. We will be seeing him every week until the baby comes. These are exciting times!

Little Bethlehem

This past Sunday evening 35 of us took both vans and traveled to see Little Bethlehem in Burnet. This was my first time to experience this great wonder.

Little Bethlehem, located in the heart of Burnet, is a small representative of what the town must have been like. It is complete with actors and actresses portraying towsnpeople, bakers, jewelers, candle makers, shepherds, criminals and Roman soldiers.

One can travel through the shops-watch as candles are made-peek into the tavern-find there is no room at the inn-pet the sheep, donkeys, and camels-watch the baker in action and taste the fresh Bethlehem Bread-and follow the star to see Mary and Joseph holding baby Jesus in their arms.

The members of the Baptist church in Burnet have truly outdone themselves in recreating Bethelehem. This was a great experience for EL, the Youth and me. I will post pictures of it in my next blog.

Merry December!

Happy first day of December! Elizabeth rolls her eyes at me because I usually get the Christmas spirit a little earlier every year. This year I started listening to a few select Christmas tunes before Halloween and she got on to me. OK, so I admit I am a bit overzealous this year, but I just can't help it. Don't be surprised, dear reader, if the December blogs are filled to the brim with hints of egg nog and figgy pudding!

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"Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time" - Laura Ingalls Wilder

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The weather is cold here today. I am surprised that it can get down to the 20's and 30's here in the south central hill country of Texas. I like it! With the weather like this, I like to cook my favorite-Mom's Beef and Vegetable Soup and curl up with some good reading. In addition to my book, I have some extra reading today: "West Nile Vaccine Journal Review" by Elizabeth Mitchell (17 pages), "Abram's Animal Ceremony in Genesis 15: An Exegesis of Genesis 15:7-21" (9 pages) and "Preaching the Lord's Supper" (24 pages) both by my buddy Allan Stanglin. I look forward to soaking up some knowledge.

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Michael Bishop has been a strong and faithful member of our family here in Marble Falls. Recently, he has been afflicted with the West Nile Virus. Rarely does this virus bring great harm, but in Michael's case it has. Michael's immune system was too low and unable to fight the virus and he is struggling with the effects. His family is in need of fervent and faithful prayer. Please take some time out of your day and pray for the Bishop family.

Explaining Eternity

"If you have a steel ball, solid steel, the size of this earth, 25,000 miles in circumference, and every one million years a little sparrow would be released to land on that ball to sharpen his beak and fly away only to come back another million years later and begin again, by the time he would have worn that ball down to the size of a BB, eternity would have just begun." - Chuck Swindoll

"Along with that, even young children are having to deal with peer pressure and other societal influences.

Beyond the drugs, sex and rock'n'roll their boomer and Gen X parents navigated, technology and consumerism have accelerated the pace of life, giving kids easy access to influences that may or may not be parent-approved. Sex, violence and foul language that used to be relegated to late-night viewing and R-rated movies are expected fixtures in everyday TV.

And many tweens model what they see, including common plot lines "where the kids are really running the house, not the dysfunctional parents," says Plante, who in addition to being Zach's dad is a psychology professor at Santa Clara University in California's Silicon Valley.

He sees the results of all these factors in his private practice frequently.

Kids look and dress older. They struggle to process the images of sex, violence and adult humor, even when their parents try to shield them. And sometimes, he says, parents end up encouraging the behavior by failing to set limits — in essence, handing over power to their kids.

"You get this kind of perfect storm of variables that would suggest that, yes, kids are becoming teens at an earlier age," Plante says."

An email forward was sent to me from Allan, our associate minister, with this article tackling the topic of children as early as elementary school trying to live like teenagers. It is quite a sobering idea for parents out there and for those, like me, that have a child on the way, to deal with the issue of kids wanting to be older and wanting to make more adult decisions. It's my prayer that we can shield our children from this mentality and help maintain their innocence in a fallen world.

Experience

I have been getting my feet wet recently by speaking in the pulpit while Allan has been away. Although I don't feel like I am cut out to be a preacher, I do enjoy the experience of talking to the entire congregation from time to time. It keeps me on my toes!

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Last night 40 from this church family(it was our youth time with some older couples that decided to tag along) traveled over to the Driftwood 8 Theatre to see "Facing the Giants"- a movie about football with a strong Christian message. It was great. It is very evident that this movie does not have any actors, but after a while you forget all about that because the message is so powerful. If their is a theatre near you showing this film, I encourage you to take your church family to see it. It refreshed and renewed my heart for action.

High and Dry

Here I am, left by my local colleagues to hang in the wind! The entire church family is meeting in the auditorium to have a special Thanksgiving Service. Allan, our Associate Minister, has skipped town to be with family. Bryce, our worship leader, has skedaddled over to OK. Our new preacher, Greg Neill, has not yet moved here. So that leave little old me-the youth guy (who Allan lovingly refers to as the Volleyball Net Coordinator)-to come up with a plan. I will try to do the same for you one day!!

Well, I used the word local in the first sentence for a reason. My precher buddy Jim from another state has sent me some thoughts to help me have a nice devotional this evening. I now think that I will be able to stumble through somehow. Thank you, Jim, for all your help!

Well, it has been quite some time since my last blog and for that I am deeply sorry. Between working overtime getting ready for the Friday 5th Quarter, anticipating the visit from our new preacher and his family and substitute teaching, I have been away from my beloved laptop. And I really don't like being away from my laptop. Some of you may know what that feels like.

I will blog later today. Right now I am going to visit one of the teens that is in a residential treatment center and try to take him out to lunch.

Only A Little Bit

I don't have much time to type this. Here I sit in McNeil High School Library while I await the results of the 4 students from Marble Falls Choir and their TMEA All State competition results. I have once again agreed to chaperone and infuse some exciting energy in the students as they prepare to sightread and sing measures from O Schone Nacht by Brahms, The Conversion of Saul by Stroope and a piece by Ralph (pronounced Rafe) Vaughn Williams, among others, that are fairly difficult. It has been a pleasure to hear them as they rehearse their voice parts alone and then to hear them as a large group of Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses. What beautiful music!!

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I awoke the other night to the sound of my sweetheart crying out in pain. With a start, I turned to her and got ready to take her to the hospital, but it was not what I thought. Her calf had cramped so tight that she was feeling immense pain. Although I was relieved, I went over to the other side of the bed and massaged out the hard cramp until the muscle was relaxed and she was feeling no pain. After the whole ordeal, she laughed at me and told me noticed that I was on red alert lately and that made her feel good. I guess I do wake up more in the middle of the night if I hear a sound that is out of the ordinary.

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Well, I gotta go. They are shutting the school library down now. I will blog more tomorrow!

Quote Of The Day

"How seldom it is that the soul keeps itself silent enough for God to speak." - William Buckhouse and James Janson

Shower of Blessings

This past Sunday evening, EL and I were showered for our baby that is soon to be here! Wow, the days keep flying by. Anyway, our church family here is the greatest. They have given to us time and time again. So much so that A.L. Hahn jokingly took me aside and told me that we were not allowed to buy another house or have another baby in at least a year. He got no argument from me or a tired EL. We are so grateful to this family for blessing us in every way possible. There are no words that can describe how we feel about this congregation. Ms. Ann, our secretary, informed us that the baby will not be ours but will be the whole church's to pamper and spoil and raise. What fun! We are so excited!!

The Latest

Here is the latest that has been happening on the Marble Falls front:

Thursday-I subbed for the Middle School and had some great classes.

Friday-I worked at the office, ate lunch with Allan (who I haven't seen in a long, long time), and prepped for our 5th Quarter for the last football game of the season: Marble Falls vs. Burnet-what a wild game-2 of our guys got hurt one right after the other-Big John Bird (Marble Falls) and then Thomas Levens (Burnet). They are doing fine now.

The 5th Quarter brought 30+ teens and friends to our new house. I got to meet some teens that are from the school and community. The pictures you see are from the party!

Saturday-Kyle B, Thomas G and I babysat for the ladies patriotic brunch. It was fun. We watched Ice Age and played Ratchet & Clank in the Youth House.

That evening, EL and I sat out on the newly uncluttered back patio and played Gin while the sun went down. We only played a few games because it got cold quick.

This morning-In class we talked about how to love people that we can't stand. We came to the conclusion that it's a lot easier said than done, but that it is what Jesus calls us to do as His radical disciples.

Tonight-I will fill you in on the happenings tomorrow afternoon with more pictures to accompany.

I Love Trivia

Tell me what it is?

The word of the day (and the one you, dear reader, must define to me by comment or email) is:

Lenugo.

Inquiring minds want to know.

Hint: It is only found on two types of people!
If you answer with these as well you will get brownie points.

Whaddaya think?!?

Down With The Sickness

I just don't know what it is, but it seems that every year, around my birthday, I get a nasty bug that puts me down for a few days!! Well, now I am back on my feet almost normal again.

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Our yard is now fully equipped with a brand spanking new sprinkler system! Now it is time for the privacy fence in the backyard and (last but not least) the spreading of topsoil and the laying of sod. What fun!

Today

Today...
Jerry, Scott and Dennis are working in the trenches and holes that they have dug for the new sprinkler system. It is getting very close now!

Today...
I have been watching a young man that has been expelled from Colt Elementary. His mother did not take off from work and needed someone to watch over him while she was in the office. I took some time out to show him around the office, a little bit of what I do, my new house, and the Youth House. We spent some time playing with his toys and playing Ratchet & Clank and Jak & Daxter on PS2.

Today...
I have heard disheartening news of the struggle it has been for my mom to move into her new house. The seller has broken many legally binding items in the contract and is being very rude to my family in FL. My mom, being a Christian, does not want to take the seller to court, so there is not much that she can do right now. Keep her and the rest involved in your prayers as they go through this ordeal.

Today...
Civilians from Marble Falls are lining up right now to show support for the Fallen Soldier procession on 281.

Today...
I am going to spend the whole evening with my sweetheart!!

Today...
Is a good day

Quote Of The Day

"Character is what you are in the dark." - Dwight L. Moody

Where Have I Been?

Friday brought back so many memories of my own high school and university experience that it was overwhelming. I subbed for Bryce Gage-the Choir Director.

1st period was the Varsity Girls Choir. We worked on sightreading and memorization of Christmas pieces with emphasis in proper vowels, dynamics and proper breathing.

2nd period was Music History. We took a 70 question test that was not quite easy. I tried it myself and think I made around an 80%.

Last period was Music Theory. We worked on P, M, m and other intervals as well as key signatures and scales.

Wow, what a blast from the past. It was a great day and I am proud of the strengthening of the music program at Marble Falls MS and HS!

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Yesterday, Ann (our secretary) and I took Allan out to eat in celebration of his 40th Birthday! Wow, he is getting up there in years! Quite an old man! We went to Opie's in Spicewood. The barbecue there is so good, it was covered in a special on the Food Network! It has become our fave place to eat brisket and sausage around here!

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Today, Jerry and Dennis are cutting up our new yard and installing the sprinkler system! Elizabeth and I have been emptying boxes, putting up blinds, hanging curtains and placing art and pictures on the walls. Everything around the new place is starting to look like a real home.

Yesterday morning, we had a great visit by Jim and Helen Dobbs. Last night, we had our Meat Eaters Bible study in the new living room! It was great!!

Ahh..the new Mitchell Mansion is wonderful!

The Puzzle

One verse has continually come to my mind over the past few months. Going through the fear of having a baby with abnormal chromosomes, not being able to find a house and losing my good friend, Jim Gardner, to a great work in Fresno, California-all in the course of a few months-truly tested my faith and belief system. The verse that has kept me glued together through these crises and others from the past is Romans 8:28:

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

I don't see how the pieces fit. I don't presume to know the future and how everything comes together to complete His will. I do know, however, that there is a Master Plan and that God is putting it all into place to carry out His perfect and awesome will. I rest in that! I tell my human nature to put a cork in it and let God do His thing. And that is the best we can do in this puzzle called life.

Villa Antonia

I had a typo for the hyperlink to the wedding center website. For those of you who tried to access the site and found nothing, here is the true link:

Villa Antonia

It is the most beautiful place to have a wedding!

Go Marble Falls!

Monday morning, I traveled with Bryce Gage and 4 students from the Marble Falls Choir to Vista Ridge for All State Choir Competition. It was a great, however long, day! Even though the tension was in the air, all 4 (Ariel M., Becca & Bethany N. and Cody S.) kept their composure. I am proud to say that they all passed on to the next round and will be singing in the All-TMEA Choir!!! I am very proud of them!

Let me go on to say that this is the first time in 20 years that Marble Falls has seen one of their own move on into this level of All State Choir competition. So for these 4 to move forward is amazing. Bryce Gage is working very hard with the students and they love him very much (even though he is tough!).

More Pics

Wedding Pics

Many Stories

Have I got a lot to tell you!

Sunday morning, Elizabeth and I helped with the new Spanish Ministry that has begun in the last month. I lead the singing in Spanish and helped with the Communion. It was great to see the growth! We went from 10 the Sunday before last to 17 this past Sunday. We are growing!

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That afternoon, Elizabeth and I headed over to Villa Antonia on 1431 near Austin for my first wedding to officiate! I was very nervous, to say the least. The rehearsal and wedding ceremony went very well. Many people came to me afterward and told me that the ceremony was one of the best that they had heard. Even the wedding planner (who works for the Villa and was on the 5th wedding that weekend) exclaimed how the ceremony was on of the best she had heard. I can't say that any of that was me, though. I have God and my good buddy, Jim Gardner, to thank for all of the help and guidance. I can now say that I have officiated 1 wedding and 1 funeral without any hitches. Thank you, Jim, for your great insight and support! I owe you big time!

I will post some pics of the wedding now!

Quote Of The Day

"Seize the day by seeking its Maker. Revise the bumper sticker slightly, to read Carpe Deum: 'Seize God'-and don't let go! If you have never reached for His powerful hand before, you're in for a great adventure. He alone is the source of true passion for all you do in life." - David Jeremiah

Again!

Well, it happened again! I have only been here for 8 and a half months and I have already 2 celebrities. First, it was Luke Wilson at the gas station. And yesterday it was none other than the host of Love Connection, Chuck Woolery! EL and I were in Horseshoe Bay for her Dr. appointment (which went very well, by the way), we were through and signing up for her next appointment when a man walked up to the receptionist's desk. I looked at him and to my surprise it was the gameshow host himself! I leaned to EL and told her to look up. She did and said "Do you know him?" I told her "That is Chuck Woolery!" She came back with "Chuck Who?" Oh well! I approached him, shook his hand and told him that his show was cool! He said thanks and we left it that because he looked a little under the weather.

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EL and I are so blessed! This past Sunday evening we were pounded and money treed by the church family!! We were overwhelmed with food and monetary gifts that we were speechless. I thank God for the family here and I pray that I can give them the leadership that God calls me to give for the teens and young families here.

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We were blessed also by another family here. They bought us 4 trees for our new house. 2 Oaks, 1 Peach and 1 Pear. We can't believe the generosity of this congregation. Thank you all for everything.

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And, Yes-My Roomie-Chad Joice, I do read my email!! You should have a reply in your box today!! I miss ya, man!

Shaping Young Hearts

I apologize once again for the sporadic blogging. With the new house, cleaning out the old one, counseling and subbing, I am constantly out of the office. I think next week will be a little slower.

I did something new yesterday. I substituted for 1st grade! What an experience and a hugely full day. I now have so much respect for Julie Bridges (whose class I taught) and others like her that work with elementary children. You have to be cut from a certain kind of special, patient, compassionate cloth to spend your days teaching young hearts and minds. Julie, you have what it takes and you are a great example to others out there and to people like me! Teachers: Thank you for all that you do! May you be blessed as you bless others along the way!!

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Well, now I am off to have my blood drawn for cholesterol screening. What fun!

Settling Down

Well, we are finally starting to settle down in our new place. This past weekend was a blur with the signing on Friday, moving the majority of our stuff from the 'Mitchell Mansion', going to the football game and 5th Quarter, then moving all of the heavy stuff on Saturday and now getting it all unpacked and put in the right place according to Elizabeth's instructions. I am beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

I want to gratefully thank Roy Swann, Jerry & Cindy Jamar (+ Kassidie), Berrilynn Daniell, Karla McCoy, Thomas Levens, Jasmine Nelson, Allan Stanglin and Sean Luke Henderson for helping us haul and lift heavy things! You guys saved me from a herniated disk!

I also want to thank George and Brad Offutt for all that you have done for EL and me! You are great! Where would we be without you guys?

EL and I now can't wait to have someone over to the new digs!!

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Now I am looking forward to spending some time today with our newly hired minister, Greg Neill. He is coming into town with his fam to househunt and see the sights here in Marble Falls, America! I am going to show and tell what I know.

So Excited!

Elizabeth and I are so excited!! Tomorrow morning we will sign the closing papers on our new house here in Marble Falls. After that, we will be busting it to put all of our stuff from the 'Mitchell Mansion' over into the new house.
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There will be a brief interlude of the football game (now across the street) and the 5th Quarter (hosted by Guy and Ruth Ann N.) in the Youth House.
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Then we will be back in the new house getting it ready to live in.

Saturday, we will be inviting everyone from the church to help us move the rest of the stuff out of storage with us.
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Another brief interlude of door knocking with the new Spanish Ministry for a few hours...
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Then back to the new house to try to get it somewhat settled! Man, we can't wait!!!

Quote Of The Day

"Here is a word for our churches. Every foreign country is our fatherland—we belong to Korea, Paraguay, Angola, Bulgaria, and Mexico. All countries are honored. All need Jesus. We belong to them all because God loves them all and all are in need of the kingdom of God.

But at the same time, every fatherland is a foreign country—even our own, even America. We do not trust it to solve our most substantial problems or look to it to fill our greatest needs. We do not assume it is always right or always good. And we do not consign to it our hopes or our future. Our future belongs only to God who is the ruler of all nations and who grants us the extraordinary rights and privileges of living as citizens, not here, at least not for long, but forever in his glorious kingdom." - Jack Reese

Chaotic

Today has been a crazy day and I am unable to blog much further. I am having all of my numbers and accounts changed for the big move this Friday. I am also meeting with David G and Brian J. I have had luch with George Q and my sweet wife, Elizabeth. There is also a baptism this evening. All good news this day but it has left me reeling!!

Be back later with more information...

Ministry In A Nutshell

"I have a special pass. The kind that gets some people into every athletic event for their school or that permits some people to park wherever they want.

Only my pass allows me to enter into the holy places of lives.

I’m a minister. I’m one who speaks the Word of God, one who shapes worldviews, one who challenges, chastises, encourages, teaches, forms, unforms, and guides. And because of that — ill-formed though my life often seems to me (dogged by doubts and shortcomings) and ill-prepared though I’ve always felt (despite those many years of Greek!) — I’m given a pass that permits me to walk into sacred places.

Places where vows are made. Places where last words are spoken by best friends before walking out to make vows. Places where grieving widows or widowers say one last word at the casket after everyone else is gone. Places where parents hold their breath and beg God, waiting for the latest MRI to come back. Places where people speak their secrets, needing reassurance that God still loves them. Places of grief, relief, sorrow, joy, fear, and ecstasy.

What would I say to a young person who’s considering ministry?

Well, let’s be honest. It isn’t always easy. (What job is?)

But it’s a privilege, a blessing beyond blessings. My pass lets me weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice. And when that happens, I feel fully alive. Even with those hidden doubts and shortcomings." - Preacher Mike

That just about sums it up for me. I love doing what I do! I love ministering to not only the teens and tweens, but people of all sizes and shapes (and Ages).

I have always wanted to help this world in some way and I can think of no better way of doing it than sharing the love of God and His son Jesus Christ with a fallen race. It is my prayer that I continue to be melted down and reformed into His image as I reach out to the lost and the hurting.

Thank You, Lord for loving us and giving us Your Spirit to guide us in this place! Thank You, God, for making us in Your image and giving us the tools to spread Your good news to the ends of the earth!

Quote Of The Day

"Two cities have been formed by two loves: the earthly by the love of self, even to the contempt of God; the heavenly by the love of God, even to the contempt of self." - St. Augustine

Mold Me and Shape Me

This morning, I visited the High School to hear the Ladies Varsity Choir under the capable direction of Director Bryce Gage. They have come a long way from last year-the difference is night and day. Needless to say, I am extremely excited about the concert this coming Monday night!!

This afternoon I am starting a premarital counseling session with a couple that I will marry in October. This is my first and I am looking forward to getting to know them.

After that session, I will be counseling a teen from my youth group.

In between and afterward, I will be working on my sermon for this Sunday evening.

Looks like I have a full plate today.

You know, I asked God to mold and shape me into the leader that He wants me to be and He is answering my prayer by loading my days with good, hard work for His kingdom.

Realize this: God answers prayer in ways we can't always foresee!

Service For Him

I am really excited about my youth here in MF! One of my teens is going to set a regular time with me each week to accompany me on my visits to the members here in from the congregation. Last week, David and I visited with Jim and Helen Dobbs before his forthcoming surgery. This week, we were able to help with a struggling, young mother of 2 pay for her medication at the HEB Pharmacy. OK, so it wasn't our money but we did do the middle-man work and it felt good, just the same. Every week on Wednesday, we are going to set aside some time to do something to lift the spirits of our flock, peers or community members. I love doing this!

Random

OK, I am back. Where was I? Oh Yeah, this morning I accompanied a parent and a teen for a counseling session. Now I have returned to finish recounting the events of this past weekend.

After the Faith Academy game (or slaughter), I got ready to take the teens to Hamilton for an Acapella concert. We had a great time rocking out and then filling up on Storm's burgers and fries. We left at 4:30 and got back home at around Midnight.

I got up early Sunday morning to look over my class materials and spend time in prayer. Elizabeth and I got to eat lunch with a ministerial candidate and som other interested families.

That afternoon, I prepared the songbooks and ice chest for a great time of devotional that evening at the home of Chris and Julie Bridges. After filling up on good Julie Bridges food, we jumped on the trampoline, played street basketball and wrapped up the night singing, praying and studying around a campfire. It was perfect weather for it, too!

Yesterday, I subbed in High School Algebra and then held Meat Eaters last night in the Youth House.

This afternoon, I am going to look over a sermon that I have completed because I may be preaching this Sunday evening.

Tonight, I am going to the Middle School to take part in a Teen Suicide Prevention Seminar.

Only 10 more days before E and I get to move into our new house! We can't wait!!!

Only a little over 3 more months before a new life enters the Mitchell household. God, help us to be ready! Can you ever be ready to raise a child?!?

Here

It has been a blur over the past few days!

Saturday morning, Elizabeth and I caught the football game of Faith Academy vs. West Columbia Christian. Clayton Bridges made a TD and a great interception! The game lasted only about an hour, though, because Faith won it 48-0.

My ride is here so I will return in about an hour. I will tell you more about it when I come back.

Quote Of The Day

"I can't think of a more urgent need than enabling young people to understand their faith and preparing them to defend it against the onslaught of secular thought they encounter in their schools and in popular culture." - Charles W. Colson

Jim and Helen

I have just returned from the home of Jim and Helen Dobbs. They were tearfully overjoyed!!You see, last night 26 from the Youth decided to make a little DVD for him before going into surgery on Friday. We sang some songs, read some Scripture and individually told him that we were thinking of him and praying for him to get through this surgery. I took them the DVD and prayed with them for this difficult time.

Jim Dobbs is a well-loved man. Many from the church here are going to show their support on Friday by praying and being there. His brother, Buster Dobbs, is coming into town this coming week to be with him and his daughter, Ann, is coming a little later to help him in his recovery. And all of us will be here lifting him up to our God.

Please continue to pray for Jim and Helen in this time.

Thoughts

Jim Dobbs, our minister emeritus in Marble Falls, is going in for surgery this Friday and I ask that you keep him and his wife, Helen, in your thoughts and prayers. He is a hard worker for the Lord and His kingdom and has brought many to a deeper understanding of God and our walk with Him. His love and intelligence seem to know no boundaries. He is a great example to me.

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Today, Elizabeth, David G and I are going to visit 2 homes. The Dobbs and the Hahns. I am excited about talking and praying with Jim, Helen, A.L. and Imogene. Good, quality time with brothers and sisters in Christ. I love it!!

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Tonight, I have something planned for the youth, but I can't let it out of the bag until this evening! It is going to be good.

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"To pray is to change. Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us. If we are unwilling to change, we will abandon prayer as a noticeable characteristic of our lives. The closer we come to the heartbeat of God the more we see our need and the more we desire to be conformed to Christ...

James says: ‘You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions’ (James 4:3). To ask ‘rightly’ involves transformed passions, total renewal. In prayer, real prayer, we begin to think God’s thoughts after Him: to desire the things He desires, to love the things He loves. Progressively we are taught to see things from His point of view.” - Richard Foster

Quote Of The Day

"The general human failing is to want what is right and important, but at the same time not to commit to the kind of life that will produce the action we know to be right and the condition we want to enjoy. This is the feature of human character that explains why the road to hell is paved with good intentions." - Dallas Willard

Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow!

Elizabeth and I were thrilled with the news yesterday that our baby girl is going to be just fine. She is still due on January 9th and everything is great! The Amnio results came back healthy and normal! Thank you for your calls, letters and prayers. We love you all!!

On top of that, we closed on the sale of our house in the Village on Wednesday and we made an offer on a house here in MF yesterday. The offer was accepted with a possible closing date of October 6th! I can't wait to have devotionals and 5th Quarters this season in my own home!!

We just can't find a better church family anywhere than the one right here in MF! They have been so supportive and have helped us through all of the worry and pain. God bless them and all of you for what you have done!

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Now it's time for me to get ready for the Faith Academy game (with Clayton Bridges playing) @ 5:00, the reception at the Bridges that will follow, the Homecoming game (with John Bird and Zane Rogers playing-also David Griffin is up for Homecoming King) at Marble Falls @ 7:30 and the 5th Quarter that will follow at Bryce's house. From now to Midnight I have quite a bit to do!

Quote Of The Day

"Finally this morning, let me encourage you over the weekend to spend some time reading in Ephesians. It's hard to miss Paul's resolute desire that the identity of the Ephesian Christians would be formed by their connection to Christ and Christ alone.

Too often these days, we qualify our Christianity. "I'm conservative." "I'm liberal." "I'm progressive." "I'm traditional."

But spending time reading Paul reminds me that his calling card was "I'm Christ's person" nothing more, nothing less. I pray that my identity might be so singularly focused that, as was the case for Paul, others might see Jesus in me." - Jim Gardner

Even More

Tuesday came with a great time of fun for the High Schoolers. In the evening, I got to ride along with the Marble Falls High School Choir and the their director, Bryce Gage, in the Homecoming Float Parade. It was exciting to drive along and see all of the eager parade watchers and look on while the teens threw candy and gum with sprays of silly string at the members of the town. We then headed to the Johnson Park Pavilion for an uplifting pep rally getting us pumped about our Homecoming game this Friday against Del Valle. The band played, the choir sang, the cheerleaders cheered, the starlets starletted and the audience applauded! It was a great night!

Several More Things

David Griffin, one of my teens, is in my office right now. We are having a great time talking about life in general. You know, he is royalty-soon to be the Homecoming King!

When we were through with S3, Jasmine, David, Karla, Allan, Carrie-Anne and Elizabeth helped me and BOB move furniture and stuff out of the seemingly neverending Penske truck into the storage unit. Thank all of you for helping and making it so easy and quick!! You are awesome! Then on Sunday we...

Welcomed our new members in a New Member Luncheon in the large fellowship hall. It was good to get to know the newbies here in Marble Falls. We ate good that day and then rested up for...

The HS/MS Devo later that night at the home of Kyle and Marti Futrell. Swimming, Catchphrase Jr., Trampoline Jumping and a great time of singing with an outstanding devotional talk by Coach Futrell were the highlights of the evening! The next morning we...

Got ready to take BOB to Austin to return the truck and to depart for Benton, AR on a Greyhound Bus.

I even have more for later.

Several Things

Well, it has been a whirlwind over the past 4 days and I will bring you up to date on Marble Falls happenings.

First, my dad, Big Ol' Bear, came into town with a Penske truck full of our furniture and stuff from the house in AR. He got in on Saturday morning at 4:30. We got up around 10, had a great breakfast cooked by my sweetheart, and took it over to our Storage Unit. I left him at 1:30 to...

Begin the first ever S3: Second Saturday Servants here in Marble Falls, TX! This is anyone in the youth group that is able to come on the second Saturday of the month to serve this community in any way possible. 8 of us from the Youth Group packed up in a van and headed over to Gateway Villa, an assisted living facility here in town. We sang classics like: I'll Fly Away, In The Garden, Be With Me Lord, etc. then we shared some of our songs with them: As The Deer, A New Anointing, Sanctuary, etc. When we finished singing, we all sat down with the 25-30 ladies and shared our stories and listened to theirs. It was a perfect time to do it because Grandparents Day was Sunday and this week is Assisted Living Week! We then...

More To Come

Quote Of The Day

"What the gospel does is to administer a sharp jolt, to shine a bright light, to kick-start the brain, and the moral sensibility, into working properly for the first time." - Tom Wright

Out Of The Woods

We are relieved to say that there has been no damage to the baby due to the Amnio! Thank You, God, for an answer to our prayers!!

Now, we wait with baited breath for the results from that procedure that come in less than 2 weeks. These will let us know if our baby has Downs Syndrome or any other abnormality. Thank you for your continued prayers.

Update

Just thought I would let you know that Elizabeth has felt only a few mild cramps from the Amnio and the little baby is moving around all the time like always! That is giving us hope that we will make it past the 48 hour mark. Just 3 more hours to go!

Thank You

First of all, thank you for all of the calls, kind words and prayers. You don't know how much they are appreciated!

Elizabeth and I traveled to Austin yesterday for our appointments with the Texas Perinatal Group.

Our first appointment was the Advanced Sonogram-It went very well and there were no markers for chromosomal abnormalities. The Doctor said that was a good sign but that it was still not a total certainty that our baby did not have Downs.

The next appointment was Genetics Consultation-The counselor told us that the results from the new Sonogram brought our chances down to .5% of having a baby with Downs. That is not even 1%! We were left with the decision to either go home without truly knowing or have an Amniocentesis to know absolutely.

It was Elizabeth's decision and I am fully supportive of her. We had the Amnio done. It was pretty quick and painless. Dr. Ridgeway had me sit down because they have had more trouble with husbands when the needle is produced than with the actual patients! Thought that was a hoot! Anyway, it was done in a wink and relatively painless. We are not out of the woods for another 24 hours due to the Amnio, so keep that in your prayers.

We will know for certain in a couple of weeks. I will let you know when I know more. Thank you so much for all that you have done.

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"Put your hand in the hand of The One who stilled the waters
Put your hand in the hand of The One who calmed the seas
Put your hand in the hand of The Man from Galilee!"

At The End Of The Day

I am now home and able to blog. It is the very end of the day and I am exhausted!

Here's how it played out:

Elizabeth and I got up before the sunrise and left for Mesquite, TX where her mom, Mary, picked her up and took her back to HSV, AR to meet up with my dad, Jim, and pack up the rest of our stuff in the old house. We are supposed to be out before the 15th and this was a good weekend for all of them.

I came back in time to get ready for the football game of Marble Falls Mustangs vs. Llano Yellow Jackets. The game was an upset for me with a score of 41-10 Llano. It was not all that bad, though! I got to sit by the whole Stanglin clan and the Whittles. I also got to see a lot of the teens and hang with them.

After the game, several of us went over to the Lewis house for a 5th Quarter. It was great to shoot the breeze and play Catch Phrase!

Now I am getting ready to go to bed and sleep the night away!

What a great day.