Riptide

West Virginia Hills

2011-06-20T16:19:00.004-05:00

June 20 = West Virginia Day

I was reminded this morning of the great state song of WV. As I read the words again, I could hear the sweet voice of my Great-Grandma Wolfe singing them as a reminder of where I come from.

I just wanted to take a minute and post the words here, written over a century ago. Give it a quick read and take it in.

"The West Virginia Hills"

Oh, the West Virginia hills! How majestic and how grand,
With their summits bathed in glory, Like our Prince Immanuel's Land!
Is it any wonder then, That my heart with rapture thrills,
As I stand once more with loved ones On those West Virginia hills?

CHORUS:

Oh, the hills, beautiful hills, How I love those West Virginia hills!
If o'er sea o'er land I roam, Still I'll think of happy home,
And my friends among the West Virginia hills.

Oh, the West Virginia hills! Where my childhood hours were passed,
Where I often wandered lonely, And the future tried to cast;
Many are our visions bright, Which the future ne'er fulfills;
But how sunny were my daydreams On those West Virginia hills!

CHORUS

Oh, the West Virginia hills! How unchang'd they seem to stand,
With their summits pointed skyward To the Great Almighty's Land!
Many changes I can see, Which my heart with sadness fills;
But no changes can be noticed In those West Virginia hills.

CHORUS

Oh, the West Virginia hills! I must bid you now adieu.
In my home beyond the mountains I shall ever dream of you;
In the evening time of life, If my Father only wills,
I shall still behold the vision Of those West Virginia hills.

CHORUS

Origin of Song:

"The West Virginia Hills," "This Is My West Virginia," and "West Virginia, My Home Sweet Home" were designated as the official State Songs of West Virginia, each ranking equally with the others in official status, by House Concurrent Resolution No. 19, adopted by the Legislature on February 28, 1963.

Ellen King, the author of the song "The West Virginia Hills," was born in Glenville on April 22, 1846.

1885. On September 15, "The West Virginia Hills" by Ellen King was published. It later became one of the official state songs. Source: Clagg, West Virginia Historical Almanac, p. 113.

Today...

2011-06-08T21:03:00.004-05:00

Are there about a million things you wanted to do today that didn't get done??? Maybe it's just me. If you happen to be in this boat, I commend to you this blog from J. D. Walt:

"The Problem with Baked Lays..."

I probably would have posted this blog tomorrow if I hadn't read it.

He was trafficked over 1600 years ago...

2011-03-17T06:00:00.002-05:00

Over 1600 years ago there was a young boy of 14 years, trafficked as a slave from Scotland to land of Druids and pagans. As a slave for over 6 years tending sheep he learned the local language and culture. Finally, he escaped his captors and was reunited with his family.

In an act of redemption, God called this freed slave back to his captors. Once captive, now free, he brought the Good News of Jesus - Hope, Salvation, LOVE to transform this dark, rough land... Ireland.

St. Patrick himself was a victim of human trafficking. He turned around and fought it head on by returning to the very people who captured him and showed them love and compassion like they'd never seen!

How are we fighting this horrific crime today? As you celebrate this day of green, in whatever way you may be, remember those who are in slavery and those who hold them captive. St. Patrick helped transform a nation. So can you!

Read more on the story of St. Patrick here.

Freedom Sunday

2011-03-13T22:32:00.005-05:00

Today is Freedom Sunday - a day set aside to increase awareness and encourage action against human trafficking. Love Chapel Hill is one of nearly 2400 churches, spread across 50 countries to join as a part of the Abolitionist Faith Community.

ORANGE has been our recurring theme for the fight against human trafficking. Today we have had the opportunity to increase awareness about where and how slavery exists, but also some very simple ways that we can begin to make a difference.

As a apart of Love Chapel Hill's participation in Freedom Sunday, we watched a few key videos which are posted below. I've also posted here a few other videos that are really eye opening.

** Please know that the topic of human trafficking can be very raw and offensive. These videos, while mostly shown on mainstream television, do contain content that I would consider to be for mature audiences only; best watched in a group setting.

If you have any questions about ORANGE, Freedom Sunday, or human trafficking in general, please feel free to email me and I'll do my best to get you connected to the information you are looking for.

Check out these videos:
Freedom Sunday:

Additional:
Constance

Call+Response Extended Trailer - KEY INFO

Sharing the Journey of Lent

2011-03-11T17:15:00.004-05:00

Lent is perhaps the most difficult season of the Christian Church calendar. It's dark, a desert place, wilderness that causes an intense introspection. Even though we know LIGHT defeats darkness, we walk through this season, surrendering and submitting again that Jesus paid the price and walked through the deepest and darkest places, taking on our sin and death.

As we remember what Christ has done, we as a church are walking through this season together in fasting and in prayer. I want to invite you to share in this journey as we read common texts over these 40 days. Join us over at the Love Chapel Hill blog - 40 days. http://lovechapelhill.wordpress.com

ORANGE

2010-11-24T19:53:00.005-05:00

When's the last time you thought about slavery? It's not even on the radar for most of us. Crazy thing is though, there are more slaves in the world today than EVER before. Somewhere in the neighborhood of 27 million, in fact. Hard for me to even conceive... 27 million individual lives are caught in the bondage of slavery...

Even worse, I'm part of the problem. All of us are. It's part of our supply chain. Most clothes made of cotton, most electronics, a lot of food, coffee - somewhere in the supply chain many of the mainstream products we buy use slave labor. A major area of modern day slavery, also known as human trafficking, is sexual exploitation. The numbers are shocking.

There is so much to learn about human trafficking, and perhaps learning about it is the first step to doing something about it. As a church, Love Chapel Hill is starting into the fight against human trafficking. How do we become modern day abolitionists. You can learn more about the problem and find very practical ways to get involved over at lovechapelhill.com. Checkout the ORANGE page.

Keep in mind as you go shopping this weekend, look for SLAVE FREE products.

Have a GREAT THANKSGIVING!

What are you celebrating today?

2010-03-17T08:00:00.008-05:00

Ok, If you're not wearing green today would I pinch you? Probably so. Can't help it. I'm pretty sure that was ingrained in like kindergarten. If you are wearing green today, what are you celebrating? Is it the Luck of the Irish? An excuse to throw back a pint? Maybe the one day of the year wearing your pointy green shoes isn't weird? Perhaps it's a family heritage or just plain old tradition?

Though there is some family heritage for me (my dad is probably marching in the St. Patrick's Day Parade today in Dublin) , I don't have green shoes, and it's not so much about the Luck of the Irish... It is, however, very much about the Love of the Irish!

There's this teenager who was taken captive and enslaved in Ireland... after 6 years of captivity, he escaped. In his freedom, this guy's heart was broken for his captors and the land of his captivity. Out of LOVE he returned... Patrick so loved Jesus, he lived a transformed life and did the unthinkable. He LOVED his captors!

Patrick LOVED the Irish, though they were seemingly unlovable. They didn't know of Grace, Mercy or Hope, but Patrick did. He experienced it and couldn't help but share it. Being empowered by God and knowing the culture Patrick was able to start real and relevant expressions of The Church in Ireland. Don't think so much about steeples and hymnals... Think about communities of people doing life together, working community gardens and welcoming in strangers.

Through one community lives were changed and other communities began to spring up around Ireland. Inviting people in and giving them freedom to belong before they ever believed proved to be the mark of God's movement in Ireland. There's something to experiencing the Love of God... It transforms lives! Patrick experienced it and carried it to Ireland - are you experiencing it and where are you carrying it today?

The Love of the Irish... God's Love for messed up people... That's what I'm celebrating today!

HAITI: How do we respond?

2010-01-13T23:20:00.002-05:00

FROM LOVE CHAPEL HILL:

As news reports of devastation continue to roll in from Haiti, the question continues to rise, "How can I help?" The chaos and loss of life is overwhelming, but there are people on the ground there who are able to save lives and provide hope. Love Chapel Hill has teamed up with two organizations that already have people in Port-au-Prince working around the clock. The American Red Cross and World Hope International. You can join in supporting their efforts in three simple ways.

GIVE $10 to The Red Cross: text "HAITI" to 90999 - You'll receive a text to confirm the gift. Reply "YES" and $10 will be added to your next cell phone bill (standard text messaging rates apply).

GIVE any $$ amount to World Hope International by going to their giving page: https://www.worldhope.org/donor/donate/default.aspx (choose "Disaster Response - Haiti") Your gift will provide water, food and essential supplies for survivors to begin healing and rebuilding their lives.

GIVE $$ on Sunday. This Sunday Morning at Love Chapel Hill all cash given during the offering will be sent to World Hope International for their relief efforts in Haiti.

You can help! First... PRAY! And if you are able, simply choose one of these giving options. If you have any questions about these or other giving options, don't hesitate to email team@lovechapelhill.com or call 919.442.8828

LOVE with the Heart of Jesus!

The Love Chapel Hill Leadership Team

Little MISS Simmons...

2010-01-09T17:58:00.005-05:00

As we learn and grow in life we find that today is not the same as yesterday and tomorrow will bring new and different experiences that shape and form us, perhaps for the rest of our days. This past week, Jeanine and I got news that has changed our lives forever.

We found out that we are having a little MISS Simmons. That's right! It's a girl! We are so excited about this gift of grace! Crazy to think that this baby already bears the image of our Loving Father. The hands of our Maker are at work every single day to keep the world in orbit and to give fingers and toes to our little girl.

Names, furniture, clothes, and toys are all things for the coming days, but for right now, we stand in AWE of God's goodness and love!

MUCH more to come!

Getting in the Water -

2009-12-06T20:51:00.003-05:00

Love Chapel Hill celebrated its first baptism as a church in the cold waters of Morgan Creek in Chapel Hill, NC. Witness this amazing day with us in the video below. This baptism is special for Jeanine and I as it is our brother, brother-in-law, and friend Stephen "Tony" Walker who gave his heart to Jesus just a few weeks back. We are proud of you Tony! The old has gone and the new has come!

A surreal moment...

2009-09-29T00:28:00.004-05:00

The picture is not so great, but I had to share it. I'll capture a better one in the light of morning. This Sunday, October 4, our new church plant will make it's LANDING into the community of Chapel Hill. Where are we landing? The center of it all, one of Chapel Hill's greatest landmarks: The Varsity Theater. To be clear, we're not owners of the building, or operators really. We are a church meeting at The Varsity on Sunday mornings at 11. Our hope is to see The Varsity remain a central business in the heart of Chapel Hill, inviting and inspiring a creative community. We love this place! Just a little while ago, I got to write our web address...Letter...by...Letter across the marquee. Surreal is the only word to describe it. I really still can't believe it's actually up there! We want people to know what's happening, but we also want them to know that this is a church for them... This is a church for me and for you; for us all types of people, and maybe even those who don't really like church. You're totally invited to come see what is a bout to happen at 11am on October 4. Varsity Theater, Chapel Hill, NC. www.lovechapelhill.com

Love Chapel Hill Update...

2009-09-25T11:36:00.004-05:00

The summer was awesome and fall is just going to be ridiculously cool! Thanks to all our Love Chapel Hill partners! Please continue to pray for us. Next Sunday, October 4 is our first Sunday morning service. If you would like to receive our latest updates in your email just leave me a comment or go to www.lovechapelhill.com and become a partner.

September is here...

2009-09-01T06:42:00.008-05:00

As you may know, I've got a birthday coming up. My good friend and co-pastor, Matt, also has a birthday coming up. We are September babies, and well, September is here. Check out this video ->

If you want to learn more or would like to give, visit http://mycharitywater.org/mattandjustin
Instead of gifts or presents for us, we would love for you to help save lives by giving to this AWESOME organization. 100% of all financial giving to charity : water goes to building wells. They even cover their administrative costs from other funding. Rest assured everything you give will be bringing clean water to those who need it most!

not fairweather..

2009-08-23T09:54:00.006-05:00

As we worshipped together last night with a time of singing and preaching out at the old well it occurred to me that we are not fairweather followers of Jesus. Literally - check out this picture from Worship at the Well:

Yesterday was a full range of weather from beautiful golden sunbeams to torrentional downpours and thunderstorms...with a little dash of rainbow at the tail end. It was an awesome day of Loving Chapel Hill together. The impending radar picture and occasional rain shower couldn't keep us from a time of worship. Join us for the next Worship at the Well on September 12 at 6pm.

Also, check out Love Chapel Hill's new website at www.lovechapelhill.com

Marriage is...

2009-07-24T09:07:00.006-05:00

Marriage is a life,

A life lived not for yourself,
But for the one who holds your heart.

Marriage is a bond and a friendship,
One that is unrivaled by another,
another In this world.

Marriage is a source of grace,
And hope for sharing love
That knows no bounds.

Marriage is not a mere season,
But a calendar of decades
Planned for a lifetime of adventure.

Marriage is a celebration
of the perfect unity
found only in the mystery of our creator.

Today Jeanine and I look back over five years of marriage in amazement at how love can grow! I'm so thankful for this beautiful gift... This lovely lady!

A day among days...

2009-07-16T13:45:00.000-05:00

A day among days...
Today is a day among days... It's the day of our church's annual district conference where the vision and course is set for the coming days and years. It's a day of being with friends from across the state and hearing how God is moving and working.

Today, as a part of this gathering, is my ordination for ministry as a pastor in the Wesleyan church and The Church which is the presence of Jesus Christ in the world today. Over the past few days I've been reflecting on this day and what is Ordination.

Ordination is not something of man. Though there will be people of God gathered round and laying hands on those of us being ordained, it is not they who ordain. I've been to college and seminary - I give to ministries financially and of my time - I've gone to interviews and conferences - I do a lot of things, but ordination is not something I earned. No, ordination is not because I'm different, more special, more loved or more holy than anyone else.

Ordination, as best I can understand it from scripture and the calling of prophets teachers and leaders, is something that can only come from God. It's much like salvation and life transformation, it's a gift of grace to an undeserving, maybe even unlikely person. That free gift of salvation doesn't leave a person the same; it brings about change over time. In that process each person is given gifts of the spirit (strengths to carry out God's purpose and calling in your life) because we are all called to serve the Kingdom of God - some as teachers, some as prophets, some as preachers, builders, leaders and janitors. God alone gives freely of love and grace and each is ordained to serve.

Tonight's ordination service is specifically a recognition of God's work in a person's life to lead the church. I'm humbled to be a part of this and so thankful for the family and friends who have helped guide me in my relationship with Jesus. He created each of us different, special, and loved, and wants us to be Holy as He is Holy.

This is a day among days! To God be the Glory!

Adventures in the Western Territory...

2009-07-07T10:17:00.005-05:00

Jeanine and I just returned from an adventure out west. Jeanine was taking a class at Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA. Neither of us had been to Washington before. We got to work in a quick trip to Idaho and then spent a few days with our good friends Char & Kevin in LA, Cali on the way home. Lots of fun flying and really beautiful scenery. Check out the pictures in these different albums from our trip.

Assorted WA & ID

Mt. Spokane

Spokane River

Cali

Perspective of The Intern...

2009-06-11T09:07:00.005-05:00

There's a guy here with us in Chapel Hill for the summer. His name is Nick Coronado...we affectionately refer to him as "The Intern"... but that doesn't even come close to describing him... A student at Oklahoma Wesleyan University, he comes to us as much a minister to this town as me, Jeanine, Matt, and Sarah. He's a spiritually mature man of God just living out his faith. He recently started a blog and I want to encourage you to check it out. It's neat for me to see his perspectives on thing as he gets into this mission of Loving Chapel Hill. Alright, enough talk, take a look:

http://nicksbignews.blogspot.com/

Team 3G...

2009-05-21T13:18:00.007-05:00

We're getting ready to head to the New River in West Virginia and play in the beautiful rush of the whitewater, but I'm realizing I never posted about our last trip out... The last trip on the river was the award winning team 3G - 3 generations, one raft and a victory! Grandparent, uncle, parent, brothers, wife and friend... Team 3G. I just wanted to share a few pictures with you from our trip. I cherish these memories!

baptism in the first degree...

2009-04-26T21:39:00.012-05:00

or maybe I just got my first degree in baptism? Who knows. But, I do know this has been an awesome day! It's late, so I'm going to keep this short and let the pictures tell most of the story. Today was the first baptism service of my pastoral career...I'm not sure I've ever been so humbled and excited at the same time (outside of our wedding). To be a part of such a sacred movement of the Lord where all three Holy Persons of the Trinity are present and active is simply overwhelming. The church body blew me away as well, coming around this young man to celebrate the work of God in his life. Praise God for a love that is always, ALWAYS, greater than sin! The old is gone and the new has come! Take a look....

No April Fools...

2009-04-03T11:10:00.005-05:00

April 1, 2009: Me working at my ever cool pizza delivery job...
Coming in from a delivery my manager asks perhaps the strangest question I've ever been asked..."you don't have a kid in Burlington do you?" Um, what? "you don't have a kid in Burlington do you?" Well, no...no I don't...Why? "I didn't think so." he said. "I got a letter from Alamance County Child Support wanting to know how many hours you work and how much money you make (hilarious in and of itself).... Waiting for the April fools, I stood staring... Nope, nothing... the real deal... They have my name & social security number... not good. My embarrassment was matched only by my wife's patience and humor.
April 2, 2009: Phone call to Child Support Agency
First question after getting my name - "What's the mother's name in the case?" "That's a really good question!" - maybe not the best response given the context??? After a transfer to someone else I get to explain the situation and find out that this has been referred by a county social worker who has to first be contacted to get more information... But I'm assured there's no amount due, this letter was just an initial inquiry. -Waiting the rest of the day to hear back!
April 3, 2009: You've only lived in NC 8 months, what have you done?
My "case worker" calls and asks if I recognize the name...which I'll leave out because I can't spell it... but definitely not a name I'd ever heard before. She was no doubt surprised to learn of the short time we've lived in NC... Apparently (or not so) there is another Justin Simmons in NC that shares my birthday. Seriously, is that possible?? When they put in the name and dob it searches all the state databases and that's where I came in the picture... (no where before that, I positively guarantee!) From the DMV database they got my social. While our dob and first and last names are shared, it appears I still have some uniquity - my middle name (thanks mom).

I will be receiving a letter in the mail as documentation of being cleared from this whole mess. Oh, and I found out they attempted to send a letter to the Dole Campaign - I'm glad this didn't happen 5 months earlier...I can only imagine the headlines :/ I have to say the people at the Alamance County Child Support office have been very easy and even pleasant to work with.

While all of this has been a bit comical, embarrassing and maybe more than a bit frustrating, I'm reminded that there is a story. There are people involved...broken relationships, hurt, selfishness, overwhelming pain, and a young child without a dad. My heart breaks for the child. In all of the messyness of life and though all the poor decisions, I believe beyond all else there there is the hope of redemption. Living, breathing, people in need of LOVE.
Lord open our eyes to the opportunities to show LOVE.

My Pastor and My Friend..

2009-03-31T23:29:00.006-05:00

I just got home from "the story: a journey in the life of jesus". It's a Bible Study of this new church starting in Chapel Hill, NC down on Franklin Street. Check it out! We had some great discussion tonight about Jesus and His turning toward the cross in the last few days of His life. My pastor and my good friend Matt LeRoy brought a great time of teaching from the book of John. Matt is just an anointed and gifted teacher of the Word. It's an honor to get to work with this guy!

Anyone is welcome at "the story" that meets in the upstairs of McAlister's Deli on Franklin Street. Every Tuesday night at 7 we share a meal and dive into the life of Jesus. Come join us on a Tuesday night. Find out more at www.lovechapelhill.com

I've got some pictures from DC coming, not to mention this weekend is our annual whitewater race in Webster Springs, WV. Fun stuff...stay tuned!

Love Chapel Hill - Update...

2009-03-19T23:04:00.004-05:00

Click on the picture below to get the latest update from the City on a Hill Project

What's up??...

2009-03-18T21:02:00.007-05:00

Realizing it's been too long since I last posted let me just give you a few updates:

In two weeks time we've been able to enjoy 30 degree snowy weather and 80 degree carolina skies.
I've got a new temporary job working at the UNC School of Dentistry.
Jeanine and I head down to Rose Hill, NC just about every other week where I get to do some preaching at Bethel Wesleyan Church.
"The Story" our Tuesday night Bible Study down on Franklin street is in it's 7th week and it's going great!
Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, General Superintendent of the Wesleyan Church and founder of World Hope came to visit Chapel Hill!
Matt and I recently traveled to Oklahoma Wesleyan University and met some students who are going to come spend the summer as a part of the City on a Hill Project Team.
We just returned from a great weekend of sharing the COAHP vision with Bagley Swamp Wesleyan Church in Hertford, NC. Many Thanks to James Spaugh!

With those updates I just want to share some pictures with you. These pictures remind me of the hope that exists everyday, even in the midst of the rain and when we can't see beyond the gray sky, this always exists -----> (I love to fly)

these lyrics tell a story...

2009-02-12T10:59:00.006-05:00

"He is jealous for me,
Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden,
I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realise just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.

And oh, how He loves us all,
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us all

He is our portion and we are His prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If grace is an ocean, we’re all sinking.
So Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss,
And the heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don’t have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way…

He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Yeah, He loves us"
- He Loves Us (abridged), by John Mark McMillan

These lyrics tell a story. As John 1 has been so fresh in my mind and my life these past two weeks, this song has captured my attention. It's the story of the mysterious creator of the universe loving us so much that he, himself became a part of creation to redeem us. No matter how far we may wander, his desire is for our returning. He continues to show his love for us. This song was introduced to me by my good friend Matt LeRoy, and performed at Southern Wesleyan's Spiritual Emphasis week by Dustin and Miriam Ah Kuoi.

Check it out on itunes if you have a chance!

A Favorite Thing

2009-02-08T19:48:00.003-05:00

My feet like to be free! It's one of my favorite things, without a doubt. Flip-flops then are the logical footwear of choice...but sometimes even those have to go. In February it sometimes seems like flip-flops or bare-feet might just not be an option (and believe me I'll push the limits). I'm happy to say that this weekend 70's were reported all across the Carolinas and my sand loving feet caught some salty fresh air! Get your flip-flops off the ground cause spring is on the way (forget what the groundhog said)!

Geolocate this post.

Posted with LifeCast

stories...

2009-02-04T21:45:00.005-05:00

Over the past few weeks our journey, our story, has had unexpected twists and turns. The experiences Jeanine and I have walked through together will continue to shape our lives, probably for the rest of our years. As our hearts and lives have gone through cycles of brokenness and healing, we've been reminded that pain is a universal experience. There's not one person immune from feeling the pain of loss, disappointment, or struggle. But, neither is there anyone who cannot receive healing.

As we've heard so many life stories over the past few weeks with pain as a consistent theme, we're reminded of a choice we have to make. In our places of feeling and being broken, we can try to control our lives and drive them our own way, seeking out what we think is a better way (definitely our natural inclination). Or, from our places of brokenness we can discover ourselves as part of a larger story, one where pain is exchanged for gladness, and sadness for joy. Each of us has a story that matters: it's the one of where we've come from. At this point, now, each of us gets to decide how the rest of our story will go. Fighting and struggling to make our own way, or loosening our grip to something, to someone beyond ourselves.

We choose the bigger story, the one bigger than us, the one with hope and mystery, the one whose founder is Love himself. It's the story that brought a random group of people around a common table last night to journey together for the next 15 weeks. It's the story of Jesus - God, showing His grace is available to every person, extending the invitation to be a part of the greatest love story on the planet. That's the story, check it out.

It all comes down to this...

2009-01-15T12:00:00.001-05:00

Isaiah 61:1-3

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.

Words for where there are none...

2009-01-14T22:51:00.003-05:00

Yesterday's verses continue to speak loudly, yet so softly. Where there are no words to speak from human lips these have come from above.

John 11:3-4

3b"Lord, the one you love is sick." 4 When he heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."

Romans 8:25-28

25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. 26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. 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.

Psalm 24:1-2

1 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; 2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.

crying out from my heart today...

2009-01-13T20:55:00.005-05:00

These verses are just a few from today that I want to share with you.

Psalm 25:1-2

1To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul; 2in you I trust, O my God.

Acts 10:34-35

34God does not show favoritism
35but accepts those from every nation who fear him and do what is right.

Isaiah 43:2 Message:

Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you.
I've called your name. You're mine.
When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you.
When you're in rough waters, you will not go down.

Isaiah 43:4 Message

That's how much you mean to me!
That's how much I love you!
I'd sell off the whole world to get you back,
trade the creation just for you.

Philippians 3 Excerpts

1Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.
10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
20Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

He has come...

2008-12-25T18:17:00.008-05:00

Christmas day! We celebrate His coming, that's the meaning of "advent" - coming. The sun rises everyday, but there is something special about the coming of the sun on Christmas morning. As the light peeked over the mountain tops this morning I was quickly reminded of the humble coming in the manger, but also the rightful splendor of the second coming. So today we celebrate Christ's coming, the already and the not yet. Advent as a church calendar season comes to a close, but our life of advent continues as we watch for the light of Christ coming again into the world, The King of kings!

Merry Christmas!

into the wilderness...

2008-12-17T21:35:00.006-05:00

There is a crazy thing about nature that can put you in your place and open your eyes to a much deeper reality. This past weekend, Keith Jagger and I set out to camp in the Smokey Mountains National Park. There were cold nights and windy days and nights, but that only added to the adventure. As we were hiking on Sunday we both came to realize how easily and quickly we forget that these majestic places even exist. Out of sight out of mind I guess, but for 365 days a year in all kinds of weather the wilderness around our busy, day to day driven lives exists...it stays right where we last left it, if we've found it at all, waiting for us to find it. In finding it, we can be reminded of our place in the created order and left in awe. I hope these pictures might speak more than what I've attempted to write down here... Have a look.

Album One:

Album Two:

think inside the box...

2008-12-09T20:46:00.006-05:00

Through this season we're partnering with our local IFC Community Kitchen to help provide food for the people in our town who need it most. Check it out:

This video is free for the taking...send it out to everyone you know and come subscribe at www.youtube.com/lovechapelhill If you would like more information check out www.lovechapelhill.com and www.ifcweb.org

oh yeah and check out Matt's blog - something about free hot chocolate at UNC?

Give some LOVE this Christmas Season!

a dose of humility...

2008-11-29T18:11:00.003-05:00

I like surprises! Jeanine, not so much. This is one case in which I think the tables were turned. Jeanine's parents were here for Thanksgiving. Unexpected to both of us they came toting a late birthday/early Christmas present for Jeanine from her mom, dad, and brothers Tony and Dustin. It was a Nintendo Wii... Crazy unexpected gift, SO AWESOME, and Jeanine has been dreaming of one for weeks (ain't no way we could buy one - Thank you to Anne, Steve, Tony and Dustin!) The one game she wanted for it was the Wii Fit.

Of course, right then and there it had to come out of the box and we had to try it out (little kids and their toys, ya know). I some how got nominated and voted to go first...little did I know what was about to come. You have to hop up on this little platform (as seen in the picture), it senses your motion and allows for truly cool interactive games...but! Before you get to play the games you have to go through the setup of your charcter. That same cool motion sensing platform reads your center of balance, your BMI, your posture and your weight...That's right, all right in front of the in-law audience.

I'm guessing I needed to be humbled, but did it really have to say "ouch" when I stepped on, and flash the word "obese" when it measured my BMI... Oh yeah and my ideal weight = 157 = my 6th grade weight. Hate to think what it might say after a big 'ol Thanksgiving FEAST. I've been humbled, now the fit is in for fight! Let's go Wii :)

Direction of Hope

2008-11-01T19:36:00.006-05:00

On this All Saints Day I can't help but consider the hope that has pierced the hearts of men and women through the ages. The hope is that which has changed lives by bringing freedom to captives, a voice to voiceless people, sight to blind eyes, and second chances to death bound wanderers. The hearts of men and women filled with this hope have been given over to something much greater, much higher than themselves.

The past few weeks I've attended political rallies, heard endorsement speeches, enjoyed a politically motivated concert, and talked politics with people, one on one...through each of these things I've found the word "hope" to be associated with a particular campaign and a particular agenda (if you don't know which one I'm referring to, please stay under your rock for a few more days :). Obviously, people put their hope in many different things, but over the past few months, for some people, the sight or hearing of the word "hope" immediately brings to mind a presidential candidate and the coming election. While I could have a field day here discussing the genius of branding and marketing, I fear that "hope" as a word has lost a bit of its power.

While hope for political change is not at all a bad thing, seeing it as an ultimate goal is significantly missing the mark of where hope best impacts and changes lives. Hope, when it is found in the enemy-loving, self-giving, self-sacrificing, person of Jesus, can not only impact a life for eternity, it can bring about real life-altering change, today. It is that hope that is the hope of the Saints which we celebrate today...the Saints who have decided to give their lives to the good news of Jesus. In the coming week I hope we will consider where we put our hope. Is hope changing lives...literally? ...mine? ...yours?

Sometimes you need a...

2008-10-19T19:21:00.007-05:00

...playground. Yes, a playground. Every now and then you just have to get out and play. I have to say, in the mix of my multiple jobs and responsibilities it's been easy to lose sight of the need to play. On this gorgeous fall Sabbath my beautiful wife reminded me and showed me the fun of an afternoon on the playground.

If you're tied up with work of the day to day, might I suggest finding your local park or playground?!?

_________ for Dole

2008-09-27T10:46:00.009-05:00

You for Dole, me for Dole, women for Dole, men, farmers, veterans, democrats, republicans, fill in the blank and you name it. Elizabeth Dole is the lady for North Carolina! Until now the office in Raleigh was solely a behind the scenes working office and not so public. Just this week the front door has been opened to meet Raleigh with all the signs and stickers to help keep Elizabeth Dole in the U.S. Senate. Here are some pictures of the place since it's gone public. If you're in the Raleigh area please stop by. If you're interested in volunteering in the campaign visit teamdole.org. And, if you can vote in NC...well any where really...Get to the poles on Nov. 4!

A weekend packed full...

2008-09-21T14:47:00.006-05:00

Last weekend the City on a Hill Team had a great opportunity to visit Indianapolis, IN and share the vision for this new church plant. If you're wondering "why Indianapolis" - Matt & Sarah used to live there where Matt was a youth pastor. They still have a lot of dear friends in that town and we are about building bridges into places across the country where people might share the vision for the church and have a desire to partner with us to impact the Kingdom of God.
It was a special time Friday night when about 40 people piled into the intimate space of a living room to hear what we had to say. Mark and Sandy Goff were amazing hosts with a great team of supporters providing an evening meal (and dessert) for everyone there. We got to stay the night at the Shunem House which exists to be a place of retreat for Missionaries when they are back in the area. Much thanks is in order for that great hospitality of that place!! Sunday morning Matt and I got to share in the service at Trinity Wesleyan Church (where Matt was youth pastor) for about 10 minutes.

So many people gathered around us and brought such joy and encouragement to us through out the weekend. Probably the most impactful time for me was Sunday morning when we got to visit KidZone at Trinity. In the children's worship service we were invited up front to meet the kids and share a bit of what we're doing. We were introduced as SuperHeros...kinda cool...and, while you and I know that's not true...what a great image for these kids to associate with people who do the work of the Lord (which should be all of us, shouldn't it??). All that said...it wasn't the super hero part that impacted me. It was when we bowed down up front and every single child in the place encircled us for prayer. Peter, their children's pastor invited the kids to pray aloud, and one bold little guy did...I'm not even sure what he prayed for, but the pure hearted words of a child before the Lord just grabbed my heart and moved me... The power of children in earnest, selfless prayer has never been such a reality to me before. My gratitude to Peter for teaching such a powerful thing to a wonderful group of young people and to God for calling us all to be children in faith!

The trip was altogether amazing! If you might be interested in hosting or having a house party in your area please email me - justin@lovechapelhill.com

i have gone i...

2008-08-26T21:42:00.004-05:00

It's pretty late and I've got to work tomorrow, but I just wanted to share with you a change in my life today. i have gone i...3g that is. No more regular cell coverage...fully functioning, world at your fingertips service. I feel like I have joined some kind of revolution! I'm excited about the new iphone...how awesome it is...and what a great tool it will be. I just got it today and I'm learning a lot about it. More later! Thanks for stopping in!

J

a glimpse of true olympic spirit...

2008-08-12T16:57:00.005-05:00

What is the point of the Olympics anyway? I've been wondering if there is anyone other than Michael Phelps on the US Team (though he is doing extremely well and I'm not knocking his ridiculous ability to become a fish in chlorinated water). With China's questionable practices of selecting "performers" over true singers and athletes, and Russia's leader watching a volley ball match while his troops are going to war, I've just struggled to get in this world stage of athletic competition. Today, I found an appreciation for this summer's games in Beijing. If you know me you know my love of whitewater. I've been pulling for this everyday guy Scott Parsons competing in the rarely televised event of whitewater kayaking. His everydayness is "something to smile about". Scott was out after his second run yesterday pushing him from 3rd to 20th...Here's where the olympic spirit come in...that third place position was taken by a man and a country that has never won an Olympic medal before.

See it here - http://www.nbcolympics.com/video/share.html?videoid=0812_SD_MUL_AU_CE492 .

Benjamin Boukpeti took the bronze for the country of Togo (a country I admittedly had never even heard of before). Not only was this a first for Togo, it was a first for the sport...Boukpeti was the first black man to medal in kayaking. The true Olympic spirit shining through when someone from somewhere or nowhere can bring their abilities and break on to the world stage (even if it was at 2 in the afternoon when I had to be at work :) May it shine through a few more times over the next few days.

4 years ago this week...

2008-07-26T21:20:00.004-05:00

This was the scene in our lives four years ago this week. After an awesome celebration we were off to the Dominican and a week later we found ourselves newly married in Wilmore. It's seriously crazy to think that four years have already gone by and how much our lives have changed in that time. To really see the growth in our own lives and in our marriage some times we have to stop and take a retrospective look. As we've taken this week to celebrate, remember, relax and plan, my love for Jeanine continues to deepen and I look forward to what the future holds. More than that, I cherish today and each day that I get to be married to this wonderful woman, this child of God. This is the scene four years later, with the echoes of the waves, the expanse of the ocean, and The Lord standing, touching, close...we reaffirm our love and committment to each other. It is only from here that we can take our next steps forward.
Celebrate Marriage, Celebrate Today!

debut

2008-07-17T23:30:00.004-05:00

It's late, but I'm excited to share this with you, so I'm going to stay up just a few more minutes. It's always exciting to debut a new video that I've been working on...It's so much fun to see a project comes together and to see how things just "fall into place" (but I don't even notice till like the fifth time I've watched it). Anyway, this video debut is especially fun because it was a project for our District Conference of the North Carolina East District of the Wesleyan Church. This was just to share the vision we have for the city on a hill project. It's an honor really to share it with you here.

Click on the logo to check out the website. If you are interested in partnering with us be sure to click on the "become a partner" link. Thanks.....It's time for bed!

The New Place

2008-07-10T21:42:00.002-05:00

Welcome! Check out the video below to get a tour of our new place -

It wouldn't have been possible to get this apartment without the help of our District Administrators, so for that we are extremely grateful! And...and...there is no way we would even been in our apartment now if it weren't for JEFF LARUE and JOSH KEESLING...we would still be unloading the truck if it weren't for these two guys carrying couches and boxes up three flights of steps with us! Thanks guys!!

Anytime you're coming to or through NC stop by and see us. We're just off of I-40.

Peace!

Farewell to Wilmore

2008-07-08T13:17:00.004-05:00

We've had an amazing journey through these past four years in Wilmore. Our lives have no doubt been impacted and even changed by the many awesome people we have met along the way. The Lord has called us, as most of you know, to be a part of a church plant team in Chapel Hill, NC. You can find out more about the church at www.lovechapelhill.com . Last Wednesday we loaded up our moving truck with the help of several servant hearted friends and Thursday morning we set out for our new home... To see how much fun we had check out the video below!

Thanks to all who helped load the truck - Debbie and Simon Noakes, Matt and Sarah LeRoy, Dan and Stephanie Bellinger, Tom (the Boost) Boustead, Eric Crip, Keith, Eve, and Claire Jagger, Josh Keesling (who is also now an NC resident), and a cameo appearance by new parents Jeremiah and Lindsay Aja and there precious Annabella Jewel.

We made it to NC and we'll be posting a tour of our new apartment real soon.

Farewell Wilmore.
Love,
Justin & Jeanine

what's old?

2008-06-23T16:20:00.003-05:00

Today we visited Stirling Castle on our way from Glasgow to Dunfermline. This castle is near the memorial for William Wallace (Brave Heart) and is in the vicinity of where the real battles actually took place. What I'm noticing as we've been in and out of castles and cathedrals nearly everyday for two weeks is that I'm not sure what is old anymore. At home, in the states, if something dates back to the Civil War or even the American Revolution it is really old...now, we've walked in the place, in structures, that are aged over a millenium. The castle from today is dated dated back to around the year 900, but it is thought to have been used even back in pre-historic times. To walk where royalty and noblity have lived and died is really somewhat disorienting. While most places here date back to the 16th and 17th centuries...it's easy to say, but to comprehend that these things existed before our country is a little crazy. We've seen so many awesome things on this trip. Here are just a few picture of some relatively old places.

Tomorrow, we fly from Edinburgh to Dublin. We'll be back in the states on Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by today.

In the big city

2008-06-22T17:21:00.005-05:00

Not a whole lot to report today. We've been in the largest town in Scotland - Glasgow - for two days. This place is quite different from anywhere we've been so far and it is at the opposite end of the spectrum from the Isle of Skye where we just came from. One thing that Europe does SO much better than we do is public transportation and providing space for pedestrians. Not to mention they have so many sweet little cars. With the exchange rate and we're paying nearly $10 a gallon for fuel here...public transportation is definitely the way to go! I can't even begin to imagine how many miles we've walked this trip and today was no exception.

Here are just some pictures from our time walking around the city.

a ped walk over the interstate and railroad tracks

a pedestrianized area in downtown

Central Station where all the trains come into the heart of the city

In need of a Shepherd...

2008-06-21T17:35:00.007-05:00

We've been out in the middle of nowhere Scotland for the last three days. The Isle of Skye is the name of the location, but really, it's farther out in the middle of nowhere than I've ever been...and that's a far piece for a West Virginia boy. So, out there we've seen majestic mountains, breath taking landscapes, and sheep. Sheep all over the place, literally in every direction at every height.

These free roaming, wool wearing, little guys just inspired a poem like expression. Here goes.

I'm in need of a Shepherd.
The fields are so big,
and I'm prone to walk wayward.

My will the only fence or boundary.
Green grass all around,
from river or stream to the icy sea.

There are others here around.
From top to bottom,
we've scattered searching the ground.

Mountains and valley's reaching as far as they can,
the highest of highs and lowest of lows.
I'm trying to find my way back home again.

I'm in need of a shepherd.

Marks of Celtic Christianity...

2008-06-20T18:07:00.004-05:00

There are two key marks to be noted of Celtic Christianity in the 5th and really through 9th century. Those two marks are quite simply hospitality and belonging. These were both integral parts of evangelism for the monastic communities (Celtic churches). Not only were the two connected to evangelism, but they were connected to each other. The communities were open to any and everyone. In fact, teams from the monastic community went into the surrounding tribes (towns) and invited people to come visit. If someone came to visit he or she was welcomed in and given the highest priority. By highest priority I mean, they could have food and lodging free of charge and they were literally welcomed by every person, even the bishop of the community. If the bishop was fasting he would even break his fast to share a meal with the visitor.

The entire community was structured in such a way that every person had multiple roles in daily life. Each person worked according to his or her gifts and abilities. Above that each person had a spiritual guide who was a peer that could share in confession and life’s journey. Each person was also given a specific place that they could spend daily time in solitude and contemplative prayer. Along with that each person was a part of a group that met regularly (at least weekly) to study scripture together. Then, with all of that, the people all came together for regular worship.

The hospitality and belonging extended into the structure of the community. The visitors would be given a spiritual guide, a place for solitude, and an open invitation to the happenings of the community. The basic premise of this evangelism extends beyond the boundaries of time and meets an innate need that each of us has and that’s to be a part of something, a community, to belong. Through belonging the visitors then had the opportunity to come to faith in a community of believers. My good friend Jeremy Summers has written quite well on the subject of belonging before believing.

How does this ancient way of doing church compare to your experience?

Should homosexuals be allowed to marry in the church?

2008-06-16T16:44:00.007-05:00

Alright, this may seem to deviate from the flow of Scotland blogging...let me just add real quick that I have a running tab at the bar right now in order to be on the internet...this is a trip! We're back to struggling for wifi. Anyway, the title of this blog is pretty key to the experience of the trip along side the Chuck Hunter book I'm reading. For every leader in the Celtic Christianity Movement like St. Patrick and St. Columba, leaders in the reformation like Luther, not to even mention the apostles, there was a stand to be made. It may have been an unpopular or out of the ordinary stand, but each was firm in his or her convictions...and for many that started a revolution. One man from history that I've become acquainted with here in Scotland is John Knox. He is largely responsible for bringing a solid protestant hold in Scotland during the reformation, and began the Presbyterian Church which later became the Church of Scotland. His stand was against Catholic way of running things and the mix of the church and state politics. He was firm in his convictions and knew what he was fight for, even in his uphill battle.

So, this is where we come back around to the initial question posed, and it's a valid question. Watching the morning BBC news and then the "Today Show" like program called "the Wright Stuff", this question was raised as the Anglican Church in England is currently struggling with it. There are homosexual couples who appreciate the traditional church ceremonies and want to be able to have a traditional wedding. Now, mind you, England already has accepted civil unions for same gender couples, the question being raised now is just, should they be allowed a traditional church wedding. Some of you maybe wanting to weigh in here with your responses and I welcome you to do that (please note that I will moderate comments and pull any that are in appropriate), but the answer may not be so easy as we want it to be. Admittedly and embarrassedly I have not worked out my own response to this question. I think that we as a church have a bigger question to deal with first, and that is - What is marriage? Second, What does it mean to be a member of the church? Solidly working out these two questions (which we so often fail to do) would leave the question already answered for the Anglican church and all of the BBC viewers.

As I look at this question being raised here on the soil which I currently stand, I know that the U.S. is just a few years behind and in Chapel Hill and other progressive towns the question may be coming sooner than we think. In many ways the church is already behind on the issue homosexuality. The question requires a response and if we don't prepare ourselves, people will be turned away and led astray. What I know above all is that we as Christians need to work out our position on homosexuality and same sex unions...and we need to do it in the same love and grace we've been given. But even more, we need to be willing to take a stand when we find it. That stand will likely be scrutinized from both angles, but we need to be bold. This is an issue where we as evangelicals so commonly want to throw stones and condemn...let it not be any longer! Let's work this out in fear and trembling before the Lord. I pray too that you, my brothers and sisters in Christ will hold me to this standard.

I don't have any pictures really to go with the content except for this one bold proclamation I saw just yesterday.
I'm not real good with Latin, but I'm pretty sure this grave marker boldly says "I await the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the age to come." Let us be so bold as the church to share and proclaim what it is that we believe.

The bar is closing and I've gotta go pay the tab. Thanks for stopping by today!
Cheers!

Sunday at St. Andrew's

2008-06-15T19:05:00.008-05:00

We've seen some amazing things today that I just want to share with you in pictures.

St. Andrew's Cathedral side wall and rear spire.

St Andrew's Cathedral front wall near the high altar with an older tower to the right.

Bases of the support columns of the Cathedral.

View from the top of a thousand year old church tower.

St. Andrew's Castle by the sea

The famous bridge on the Old Course at St. Andrew's.

My brother Josh knocking one out of the bunker.

Covered some ground...

2008-06-14T20:30:00.000-05:00

That's what we did today - covered some ground! We went out from Perth into the country side of Scotland. We were blessed to have the touring expertise of a local couple, Alan and Lorraine Thomson. They are part of what I call Dad's Traveling Network, DTN. Somehow, through Fire Fighting, pub conversations, and just plain cunning, my dad has met people and built relationships through out The States and Europe. We had such a good time with Alan and Lorraine, they really made us feel right at home here. There were several things from today I want to pull out. First, it's what our accents must sound like to other people. I really wish I knew. It's so fun to share and learn new phrases even with other english speaking people. We all just have a little different way of putting things. We've been loving the Scotish tones and accents, interestingly, it takes people about 3.5 seconds to figure out that we're not from around here and from our accents, we're probably from the states. I had one lady yesterday, just after saying hello, ask, "you've come a long way haven't you?" It's just neat being in a different place from your own. The other observation is just that we all take for granted the majestic landscapes around us. In the car as we were traveling, all of us foreigners were oohing and aahing at the greenery and mountains and castle structures, but it was all so common place for Alan and Lorraine...it got me thinking about how we do the same thing in West Virginia, Kentucky and North Carolina. All over the world, the earth itself is reaching upward with all it's beauty to praise the Lord...even when we forget, the earth cries out in praise.

Just thought of another fun tidbit from the day. We were out to dinner at a place where you wait

in the bar area until your food is ready. I, like most of our group, ordered a water to drink. The older lady behind the bar looked back a me with "for real?" type look and said, "you're old enough to get something else you know?". Feeling heckled I decided to order something that I at least had to pay for. Here comes one of my other observations. The U.S. is not the only one with regional soft drinks. For Example we in Kentucky have this flavorful ginger drink called Ale 8-1, and in the Carolinas we have this great thing called Cheerwine. Well, I ordered the regional drink here called IRN-BRU (Iron Brew is how it's pretty much pronounced). It tastes a lot like Double Bubble bubble gum. It's definitely (like Ale8-1 and Cheerwine) an aquired taste, but hey it kept the locals happy :)

Here's our bed and breakfast and the view from out front...It's really a great place, four floors, and we're at the top. Breakfast is HUGE and tasty! This would be a dream house and occupation for us, I think :)

Tomorrow, we're off to St. Andrews for a round of golf and more sight seeing. The scotish golfers are going to laugh so hard when they see me hit the ball...you would too.

Here are some pictures from the Scotish country side:

Album 1 Album 2

The view at breakfast - now in Perth

2008-06-14T04:57:00.003-05:00

Well we've moved on to the town of Perth about an hour to the north of Edinburgh. We're at a nice bed and breakfast. So...I thought I'd just share with you the view at breakfast. These people know how to eat and you're not hungry again till two in the afternoon. For those of you who are wondering, they do serve haggis with breakfast...and no I haven't tried it (sorry Jeremy). If you don't know what haggis is check out one of Jeanine's previous blog posts as "So here I am in Scotland". We're getting ready to head out into the country side so we're sure to bring back some good pictures. Have a great day, and we'll be back soon...We have steady free internet for the couple days :)

Establishment vs. Movement - a whole bunch of churches

2008-06-12T18:15:00.009-05:00

Am I allowed to say that cathedrals "litter" the countryside of Scotland (and Ireland)? Whether I'm allowed to say it or not, it's pretty much true. As we've walked the streets of Edinburgh these last few days I've lost count of the number of magnificent structure built to the Glory of God. I remember traveling several years ago in Ireland and there were always two things you could count on seeing in even the smallest town...a church (cathedral) and a pub. We're just now getting ready to move on from Edinburgh, but I imagine it is much the same.

As I've been reading about St. Patrick and his evangelism work with the "barbarians" I've learned that it spread even more so after his death. It is said that through these works of St. Patrick that there were over 6000 churches planted in Ireland alone. From there Christianity in the same way spread to Scotland. One of the reasons for the great number of churches beginning was their distinctive approach to doing church. It was quite different from the Roman church of the time that built great structures and employed ordained clergy. Instead this work of St. Patrick was done in simple, small, structures made of wood and mud and they relied on laity more than clergy to be active leaders in ministry. Which is the establishment and which is the movement? Patrick had started a new kind of church that was both "barbarian and catholic"...some, including Chuck Hunter, called these new church monastic communities.

Not only did he turn the way of doing church upside down, he turned the monastary concept inside out. Instead of being an established force against the world placed out in some remote location with people living in protest to the material things of the world, the monestary was in an open place in the middle of towns or tribes where people could come in and out and experience a new way of life...specifically, one with out violence or aggression and one devoted to God purpose. These communities became models for the world and the penetrated the people of the towns and tribes. The monastic communities provided support and life for one another. They were able to work out their salvation together. People became the focus rather then buildings and church heirarchy. The gifts of each person were embraced for both employment and ministry and they were always preparing to send people out to start and join other new ministries.

So how did all these big church buildings come to be? The movemental dynamics were squelched by leaders in Rome who disagreed with Patrick style and approach. They decided to shift back into establishment mode with a "parish" church in each town. Now don't get me wrong, I think the "established church" has great attributes and resources and a lot of potential for discipling people. The typical monastary was a place for monks to withdrawl and focus on their own souls, but these new monastic communities were places concerned with saving the souls of others. I'm going to go a little JW (John Wesley) here and say I see the need for both, and they should be in a healthy balance. One without the other seems to be a little off track.

I'm no expert on the current state of Christianity in Ireland or Scotland, but my initial observations lead me to believe things are in a pretty steep decline. The buildings are great, but where are the people and are lives being changed? Could these awesome structures be used to reachout into the community and become a refuge, penetrating the world in which they exist? I think they absolutely could and I've seen two old churches here in Edinburgh doing just that. These two are taking the resources they have as an established church and seem to putting things in motion again. The two are St. George's West and St. John's. Both have transformed their space in some way to reach out to the common person. The inside of St. George's is actually now a cafe and St. John's houses are center for justice and peace. I would love to hang around and get to know these a little more. Seek and you shall find...I think that is the case for us as individuals, but also for us as bodies, as churches working together. The establishment doesn't have to be stagnant or stale.

Ok, that's enough for now, I'm amazed if you are still reading at this point. I want to give a quick shout out and hello to our friends Ken and Judy Pyles. They lived here in Edinburgh for a year while Ken was at the Edinburgh University School of Divinity called New College. Ken was preparing to one day be my pastor at the First United Methodist Church of South Charleston (it's been a few years ago). Anyway, we got to stop by and see the School of Divinity and take in the beautiful sites.

Much love to all, and thanks if you made it this far!

June 11th - Activity in Edinburgh

2008-06-12T16:25:00.004-05:00

How was your night of sleep? My appreciation for sleep last night was heightened after being up for what seemed like three days. After a good night of sleep we set out today to explore the streets of Edinburgh, including the famous and quite old Edinburgh Castle. I’ve wrestled with what to write about today, as I imagine will be the case many days while were here in Scotland. As we were walking this afternoon we saw this store with a sign that said “this is your store so come on in”. Curious I looked on in the window. It soon became obvious that this was a group of people with an activist mentality. While I’m not sure of their cause, I have to say I like what I’ve seen of their approach. They have this story front, right off main street, storefront where they can have one on one personal conversations about their cause. In the window they had this creatively done message(click on the picture to enlarge and read it)…a message that many if not most would be touched by. These people rely on the power of personal communication in creative ways. On this trip, I’m reading “The Celtic Way of Evangelism” by Chuck Hunter. Appropriately, I began reading in Dublin, Ireland. The book begins by telling the story of St. Patrick. If you don’t know the story I encourage you to read what you can about it. In a nutshell he felt the Lord call him to reach a place written off by the church as barbarian and unreachable. He went to the church leaders and told them of his calling. Though they could have easily squelched the leading of the Spirit, they embraced this crazy, radical, and reckless call. With that, St. Patrick went and initiated one of the most amazing movements in Church history, reaching the people of Ireland and Scotland. Though I’m getting into the methodologies now, I know that they were anything but conventional. He used creative, innovative methods to share the Gospel and change lives. Much the way these people here in Edinburgh are advancing their cause, and in the same reckless, crazy way St. Patrick set out to an “unreachable” people, I hope that we have the wisdom, courage and faith to love the people of Chapel Hill.

Here are a few pictures for you (sorry about the alignment, not bloggers greatest feature). Also, don’t forget to check out Jeanine’s blog: “So here I am in Scotland.”

Cheers.

Our hotel -

Edinburgh Castle -

A side entrance to the castle, but don't tell the gaurds -

Another view from across the city -

A view from the top of the castle -

The things we take for granted

2008-06-12T07:46:00.002-05:00

So here we are in some library in Edinburgh. Wev'e literally been trying for hours at different locations to get online to post our blogs. Free internet is extremely hard to find and then when we do, it doesn't work :) Even here we can't use our own computers and that's where all the pictures are. We're realizing how much we take our neighborhood Panera free wifi for granted. Jeanine and I will both make an attempt to post again tonight. Thanks for stopping by, we'll be back soon!

In a new place...

2008-06-10T09:25:00.003-05:00

June 9th – 10th
Some how we’ve passed through a time portal from Monday into Tuesday. We left the states on Monday and arrived in Dublin, Ireland on Tuesday. As I type we’re sitting in the Dublin airport. Already I’m feeling the decrease of my comfort level. Maybe it was entering the Dublin airport and getting frisked and felt in places better left to my wife…I really didn’t have any metal on me to set off the detectors…seriously. My decreased level of comfort I think is more due to the different place, different rules, different way of life and having to leave my American Ego on the plane. It’s going to be an interesting adjustment over the next couple days. Luckily we won’t be going through metal detectors again for two weeks. We’re going to hang here a little longer and then cross over to Scotland... unfortunately it’s about 4am EST…and I’m a little sleepy…the sun is up and the day has definitely begun here at 9am. Check out a couple pictures from the flight.

Our plane that brought us through the night.

Jeanine enduring the night of flight.

More to come...hopefully we can find some free internet! Peace.

Preparing for our trip...

2008-06-06T23:03:00.004-05:00

Jeanine and I are preparing to leave for our trip to Scotland. We are both hoping to blog everyday. I will be blogging here on the Riptide blog, but Jeanine has created a blog just for the trip and it is sure to be good. Be sure check out both blogs as you have time. Jeanine's is called: So here I am in Scotland.

There will be more to come real soon!

Be the donkey...

2008-05-31T04:37:00.003-05:00

Graduation: What does that mean? Quite literally it means moving from one level to the next. It is, in the academic sense, the completion of a degree and having it conferred for the world to know. In just about every sense of graduation, academic and otherwise, there is this inherent notion of moving up, success, becoming better or greater than before...

On graduation day we had the opportunity as students with our families to attend a chapel service. In that service there was a story shared about the desire to graduate from a little colt to a great, mighty, strong, and beautiful horse... often times that is our hope in starting a degree program...to come out on the other side a great, well educated person that people look to for wealths of information. Quickly though, we were reminded it was a donkey, not a horse, that Jesus rode into Jerusalem. There was fanfare from every angle, but it wasn't for the donkey, it was for Jesus.

Graduating to become pastors, teachers, and leaders we must become the donkey... going out to be a part of this new church plant, I must become the donkey. My hope, nothing more and nothing less is to be someone the Lord can use to advance His message, His kingdom, to the world. Will you be a donkey too?

Final Class Today

2008-05-15T19:25:00.007-05:00

I just got home from my final seminary class. Don't be fooled...I still have a TON of work to get done before graduation, but there was just something cool, special and weird about actually sitting with my friends in class today. My last day of class was actually in one of my favorite seminary classes yet. It's call number is PR/WO 700 titled Creative Preaching on the Sacraments. Dr. Lester Ruth teaches this class. It's truly been an awesome semester in an intimate class of only six students. We are better known as the Ubersight Team... If you want to know what Ubersight is, just ask :)

I have posted our class picture and a picture with my buddy Chad from this class. If you're at Asbury and you have the opportunity I highly recommend that you take this class. More seminary memories sharing and celebration to come as graduation nears!

Prayer Requests:
Endurance for the week ahead
Housing in Chapel Hill, NC
Employment for both Jeanine and I
Good transition from Wilmore

Jesus Still Speaks Today

2008-05-06T09:31:00.003-05:00

Really He does...

Check out the Asbury Reader online. We have journeyed as a community to read scripture together as a practice of the means of grace.

Also here is a link to Matt and Sarah LeRoy

And check out the NC East District of the Wesleyan Church

Peace

41st Anniversary of His 29th Birthday

2008-04-27T08:47:00.004-05:00

Today our family is celebrating my grandpa Barney's 41st Anniversary of His 29th Birthday. (His 70th birthday but don't tell him.) Jeanine and I got to spend the day with him yesterday riding the waves of the New River...he's the only one in the family that didn't flip the whole day. Check out this short video of some whitewater fun with Barney.

To the man who always picked me up for church, taught me to fly airplanes, always tied my ties, and taught me to do the same, taught me how to paddle a kayak and the man who's socks I'm wearing even this morning as I get ready for church (I forgot to pack mine) - Happy Birthday, I mean anniversary! Thank you! Love you, Grandpa Barney!!

Loan Forgiveness...

2008-04-20T00:40:00.006-05:00

We are all in need of forgiveness... Some of us on multiple fronts. In light of our last post here on the blog, we're about to be staring many thousands of dollars in student loans in the face. Depending on your view of debt, my looking for forgiveness may be a little deeper. Really though, the federal student aid department has recently released information on a new student loan forgiveness program for those who work full time in the public service realm. I was talking with two my buddies tonight Keesling and Cocoa Crisp about this new, fairly unknown, thing.

Anyway, the basic idea is that if you work full time for 10 years in a public service job and pay on your student loans through that 10 year period (at least the minimum payment) then the remainder of your debt will be forgiven. Obviously this is really only good if it's going to take you more than 10 years to pay it off anyway. Some of us will have at least that. So the questions that jumps up is "what is a public service job?". Well you can find a list of public service jobs here. It of course includes public safety, emergency services, and public education, but it also includes tax exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. Here's the thing...most churches are setup as 501(c)(3)s. Anybody out there thinking what I'm thinking?? I have some serious doubts that the federal government is going to be forgiving the debt of pastors, but a guy can dream, right? Is there hope? Anyone out there have more information on this? I would love to hear from you if you do.

Check out more information on the Loan Forgiveness for Public Service Employees.

For Immediate Release...

2008-04-14T12:47:00.002-05:00

Love the Marine...Tony

2008-03-17T17:06:00.004-05:00

Hey check out the video below...don't get too close to a military base though or you might end up with a hair cut like mine :)

Jeanine was ready to sign up until she picked up this pack -

And, in case you don't know how strong Marines really are...even without their artillery, check this real quick - Marine Brute Strength

Here is a link to the Air1 Wall of Prayer with the listings of many names of our troops serving around the world - Wall of Prayer

Fuzzy View?

2008-03-04T11:52:00.006-05:00

Here's my next attempt at a video blog. I have to say I think I must have been half a sleep in doing this one. I was struggling for words a bit more which you can't see when I'm just typing. Anyway, check it out. After the video there are some links and stuff at the bottom.

Ok, I'm not saying that I or these guys at Rhythm have it all figured out or that they are a "perfect" church. What I am saying is that they are doing some "new" things and trying to focus on being the church instead of doing church. They don't have a website right now, but they are using Google Groups to communicate and seem to be using it effectively. Go check out the Google Group, and especially if you live anywhere close to Indianapolis, think about getting connected here and trying something different. http://groups.google.com/group/777-indy?hl=en

There is another organization that Jeanine and I have come to really know and love. I'm not really sure where it is based out of, but it is very much a movement type of ministry. It's called "To Write Love on Her Arms". It is basically about reaching out with the Gospel to people who are addicted to the chemical reaction that takes place in the practice of cutting. The statistics are staggering of how many people are cutting themselves. Check out this their website and prepare to be moved. http://www.twloha.com/

Two things -

2008-02-26T12:44:00.007-05:00

Check out the video blog -

Here is the link to their facebook group with more concert info.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8196109341

You can buy tickets at this link:
http://www.ichthus.org/catalog/index.php?cPath=21

***Please give me some feedback on the video blog format. I'm open to new ideas so just drop your comments or suggestions here on the blog.

Here goes...

2008-02-12T20:17:00.002-05:00

...the beginning of another semester. I have to say the same old feeling of the first day of school still came back to me. It's like the first day of kindergarten all over again....ask my mom...it didn't go that well. Just not knowing where I'd sit and if I'd know anyone... Am I really prepared for this...can I make the grade?

Today, as some of those same old feeling came flowing back in I reluctantly went to my first class...but today, when I got there, there was something different. There was a comfort that replaced the reluctancy. As I walked toward my class there were faces and conversations that brought me to realize I was really in a place of community. In this place of graduate education the Holy Spirit dwells in the hearts of so many that what can cause fear and anxiety is filled with comfort in knowing that God has brought each of us this far and he'll see us through to the end.

Beginning my classes today I met student online who opened my eyes to how difficult conditions can be for students around the world. I admire the faith and dedication of anyone who follows the call to come to seminary, but today's story was beyond any I have heard yet. Please join in praying for a brother half way around the world that is making great sacrifices to follow God's call on his life by attending Asbury online in a place where books and the internet are hard to come by.

Please be in prayer for each person of the Asbury Community as we start another semester together! And, to my final semester...here goes!

The time has come...

2008-02-08T22:38:00.000-05:00

...to face the thing called facebook. I have been resistant (to say the least) to joining facebook, mainly because I know the time I would want to put into it. There is so much being poured into facebook everyday by people all over the world, and it's worth like $2 billion (at least that's what's been offered for it). As I begin my final semester of seminary I'm still a little concerned about the amount of time it takes to keep up social networking online. I have a lot to learn (since I'm running a little behind on this one), but my wife is a good teacher. More than anything I'm seeing the value of facebook as a tool for communication and building relationships on a broader scale. I know friends whose ministries thrive from the connections made on facebook. So, as I enter this online community, I do it prayerfully and carefully. Here goes...

(P.S. don't worry, I'll still be posting here as usual)

Rend your hearts

2008-02-06T19:03:00.000-05:00

It is pretty unbelievable that ash Wednesday has already come. The journey to the cross has begun and the season of Lent will be in place for the next several weeks. May this Word of the Lord be our guide in the coming days:

Joel 2:13 Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.

It is because of Easter that we live but it is vital to our life that we remember what lead up to that glorious morning. Praise God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

hijacked

2008-01-12T23:13:00.001-05:00

The last post is obviously what happens when your blog is hijacked. At least I knew just who the culprit was....yeah, that'd be my wife.

Looking forward to summer...

2008-01-11T19:41:00.001-05:00

Everyone should be sure to check out next month's People Magazine! Can you guess who made it to the #1 spot of the 100 most beautiful people??

Set Apart '07

2008-01-07T15:31:00.000-05:00

I just recently had the opportunity to be a part of the prayer room team at the International Wesleyan Youth Convention - Set Apart '07. Along with Jeremy & Andrea Summers and Josh Keesling, I traveled to Orlando to setup and staff the prayer room. You can watch the videos below and see just what was happening. The first is a walk through of the room that might give you ideas if you are planning a prayer room, and the second is the video that was actually playing in the prayer room. Feel free to use one or both. We saw the Holy Spirit moving in some amazing ways that we did not even anticipate. Praise be to God! Thanks to Jeremy for inviting me to be a part of this!

Christmas Time in NYC

2008-01-07T15:20:00.000-05:00

On Christmas Jeanine and I rolled through the night all the way from the hills of West Virginia to the streets of NYC. We got to go with Jeanine's mom and dad (Anne and Steve), and her two brothers Tony and Dustin. Tony's girlfriend Annette and Dustin's fiance Kim were able to come as well. We got to visit Jeanine's grandparents, uncle and cousins (who we hadn't seen since our wedding) on Long Island. It was the first time that Jeanine and I had been in New York at Christmas time. It is something we've wanted to do for awhile, and it is definitely something we hope to do again. It was really so amazing that even the 580 some pictures we took can't even begin to capture the beauty and wonder of it.

I just want to share a few pictures with you. I'll start off with my favorite :)

(Jeanine glowing in Rockefeller Center)

(Looking into the heart of Times Square)

(The Empire State Building dressed for Christmas)

(The altar in St. Patrick's Cathedral)

(The whole crew by the tree)

(standing in Penn Station)

The trip was awesome! Thanks to all who were there to make is such a great time (especially the hundreds of NYPD officers keeping us safe :)

The Way Forward

2007-12-21T22:05:00.000-05:00

T-minus 2 papers to go!

2007-12-10T17:34:00.000-05:00

I'm in the midst of finals week with two more papers to write. It's been quite an overwhelming, stretching, yet amazing semester. By Thursday night the paper writing will be over and the celebration will begin :)

I'll be back soon with some post semester commentary.
Justin

P.S. The T-Shirt sales were awesome and we're still working on raising funds for the Asbury for Darfur effort. If you didn't get one of the shirts and would like to get one just drop me an email or a comment.

Old School T's

2007-11-29T10:24:00.000-05:00

Coming soon...
In fact, this Saturday!

Wilmore Craft Fair
9am - 4pm : Asbury Seminary Gym

Check out these Shirts!!!
The profits will go to the 'Asbury for Darfur' effort.

Put the phone down

2007-11-22T00:17:00.000-05:00

In our hundred mile an hour, on the go, fast paced world it seems we've always got to be connected...at least seemingly connected. People are giving up their land line phones and carrying their cell phones with them every where they go. Before you write me off as some old man trying to get back to the fifties let me say that Jeanine and I don't have a land line and we really enjoy the convenience of our cell phones (not sure what we'd do without them!).

While I enjoy the conveniences and would LOVE to have an iPhone, there are a few down sides I've noticed. They certainly make us available all the time, whether work or fun, they can cut into what used to be times of rest; they allow us to more easily screen our calls (guilty); and they open the door to an increase in rudeness and decrease in personal skills (as if we needed help). I'm pretty sure these are only compounded by the invention of what I call the bionic ear - aka - blue tooth hands free device.

I was in the drive through just this past week and I was talking to my buddy Drew. As I ordered and then as I pulled up to the window I asked Drew to hold on (sorry Drew) so I could lay the phone down and have a conversation with the person working the drive through. Just as I was getting ready to pull away he thanked me for putting my phone down - I didn't even think he saw me. I was then convicted for all the times I had driven through or walked up to a counter while I was on the phone. The people in the drive throughs and behind the counters are offering a service that I (and probably we) have taken too much for granted.

Let's show our appreciation, whether in a store or a restaurant, when we're being served - put the phone down.

My Lady

2007-11-06T15:08:00.000-05:00

Celebrating 26 years of a beautiful life of a beautiful lady, today! I am constantly amazed by my wife, by her depth, her wisdom, her humor, and her love.

I give thanks to the Lord of All, the Author of Love, that He has entrusted me with this gift to love, nurture and protect.

I pray that we celebrate thousands more years walking hand in hand...and then, I'm reminded that in Christ we're blessed with an eternity!

All Praise, Glory, and Honor be His!

Halloween Transformation

2007-10-31T18:22:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to preach at the Jessamine County Senior Center today and share in their Halloween celebration. The video below is to really the audio of today's message with some neat pumpkin pics. Check it out! This was one of the most fun, most interesting speaking opportunities I've had. It was a lot of fun! Feel free to check it out...BTW, I carved a pumpkin while I was talking so feel free to laugh as I trip over my words a bit and get some laughs from the crowd. Happy Halloween!

A prayer from a broken heart....

2007-10-25T11:37:00.000-05:00

There is no part of me that is hidden from you.
You have known me from before my first breath.
My life has been selfish, greedy, gluttonous and lustful.
My sin is punishable by death...hopeless death.
But you...you loved me even in hopelessness.
Unworthy, broken, lost,condemned -
You made a way for me from the deepest, darkest places.
You are my redemption; death has died and I am free!
You are the redemption for all who come!
If you saved me, surely there is none without hope!
You are my salvation! You and you alone!
- Your Child, Justin

Fill me up -

2007-10-18T12:37:00.000-05:00

There are few places that touch my heart the same way the North Carolina Coast does. Recently, having the opportunity to walk in the sand and surf, I was touched by the thought of the ocean as a means of grace. When I think about God's grace and God's love I think about how big it must be to cover my sin. As I look out over the water watching it reach to the horizon, I am overwhelmed by all that God has done to express His love for us. His love and grace is beyond what we can comprehend, it's even greater than all the water in all oceans of the world!

Praise the Lord!

Oh, the things you find when you're not looking...

2007-09-30T20:05:00.000-05:00

So we're out for a nice Sunday drive...and we come across what we thought was a little strange country-bumpkin signage...

... and we laughed a little, and wondered where one would come across such a piece of art... but then we saw this...

and then this...

...and behind these two were at least 3 more... so we thought it might be best to keep driving... but then just down the road, we see this...

Clearly, it was time to go home. For all of you reading this who DONT live in Jessamine County... feel free to let your imagination wander. For those of you who do, always travel with a buddy...

Christmas... in September?

2007-09-29T21:29:00.000-05:00

So what if I had needed a rake to rid the yard that I dont have of leaves that arent falling? The lawn and garden section of Wal-Mart, which should still be selling swimming pool chemicals (given that it was 83 degrees today), is "decking the halls" a bit early. However, if you look carefully, you'll notice that the acoustic-jammin' santa is sporting his Top Gun shades (as is appropriate in late summer)!

So, excuse me while I find a ladder to begin stringing lights from the rain gutters...

Four score; well, at least 26 years ago...

2007-09-27T12:36:00.000-05:00

I must admit this is a little weird for me. I actually just read this story for the first time yesterday. It is my birth narrative, if you will; written by my mom soon after I was born. So here I am sharing it with you, the world. Don't worry it's not too graphic or gross, but if your curiosity needs piquing, I was born in the back of an ambulance! Check it out:

"I guess you've all heard that Justin Michael finally made his arrival, although not exactly as planned. I had no intention of even going to the hospital in an ambulance, let alone having the baby in one! As it turned out, there wasn't much time for choices. For those of you who haven't heard the story, here's how it went: I started into labor about 7 p.m. The contractions were strong, and came every 1 to 3 1/2 minutes. They lasted from 31 to 57 seconds, but were never regular. Because they were irregular and started so quickly, I believed it was false labor. Luckily, my mother was with me, and she, "just knew" I was really in labor, and that the baby was closer than I thought. She called my doctor and told him we were on our way. She then called a friend at the ambulance base to tell her we were leaving for the hospital. When Mom told her how close the contractions were she wanted us to call Station 31 and let them take me to the hospital, but I was still determined I wasn't going in an ambulance. A few minutes later, the ambulance called to say they were on the way (my friend had called on her own), and wanted me to let them take me in. Mom wasn't sure the ambulance would get there in time. The ambulance arrived, they timed a few contractions, and then loaded me into the ambulance. They called the hospital and, after my next contraction, we began to move. We got out of the parking lot and into the road when the baby started coming. They stopped the ambulance and, with the next contraction, he was born. It happened so fast!! It was 8:09 p.m., and the labor lasted just over one hour. After the paramedics cleaned him up, I heard that wonderful first cry, and I got to hold him; he was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen. We dimmed the lights in the back, and he opened his big dark blue eyes and looked around at everyone. I want to praise my friends and co-workers for safely delivering Justin. After the pediatrician saw him and assured us he was completely healthy, they told me the cord had been wrapped around his neck twice. They just took care of the problem without ever skipping a beat. If not for you all, I might not have my wonderful little boy."

As I read through this story, my heart is humbled. I am reminded of our human frailties and our dependence on God and others. I am grateful for God's faithfulness and His hand when I see that I may not have even been able to take my first breath.

God, Thank you for the provision of life. You are my Father, the one who brought breath to my lungs. Draw me near to you so that everything I do is done for your glory and not my own. Fill my lungs again today that I may breathe you in! It's in you that I find my hope and my delight.
Thank you for the paramedics that worked as your hand on this day, 26 years ago.
May each of them feel your presence in a special way today.
All praise be to your holy name. Amen

Acts 5:12-42

2007-09-21T08:32:00.001-05:00

I've been reading in Acts chapter 5 for the last few days...I am both amazed and convicted. Even before chapter 5, but especially in it, Peter and the Apostles are out healing people, teaching them about Jesus Christ and many lives are being changed. The Apostles are arrested, beaten and imprisoned, then when they are released, every time, they are told not to teach or even mention the name of Jesus again. As soon as they leave the presence of the priests and scribes, they go out from the temple right back to it.

But why? Maybe it's because an angel freed them from prison? Maybe it's because they find joy in suffering? Maybe it is because God told them to teach the words of life? Yeah, maybe it's all of these things...

But what about me, what about us??? As Christians we have been set free from prison, we have been told to count ourselves blessed if we suffer as Christ did, and God has told us to Go - make disciples. Still, day in and day out I keep the message to myself. I'm afraid people will think I'm a freak for talking about Jesus, and I don't want to offend anyone. On top of that, I'm lazy. I'm not really even in danger of being beaten or imprisoned. What then...are any of these good excuses? I guess not.

Lord, I pray,for myself and anyone reading this, that today you may put someone in our paths that we may share the Gospel message with. Give me the eyes to recognize him or her. Give me the boldness to speak up and share the message and the the love that you've so willingly shared with me. It's all about you. In Jesus name, Amen.

A Quick Word...

2007-09-09T13:55:00.000-05:00

I'm on my way to bed, but I just had to write this down before I could sleep. Jeanine and I went to see TobyMac in concert tonight at Questapalooza. If you don't know what either of those things are, you can click on the word and check them out.

TobyMac gave two simple truths to the crowd...

(1) - God loves you! He is ready and willing to help you turn your life around. When you turn to Him there is Love and Forgiveness. All your past mistakes, they are washed away. And...

(2) - You were made to worship and adore the God who created you! Each of us has this very purpose at the center of our lives.

Two simple truths: Love centered - Life changing!

Here's definitely a shout out to Quest Community Church for a great, Christ honoring, fun-filled event!

Great Weekend in the Water

2007-09-03T17:48:00.000-05:00

In the water of baptism. Jeanine and I just returned from a great weekend with my family in West Virginia where I got to assist in the baptism of my youngest cousin, Kayley. Family members came from all over to celebrate this sacred time together. It was great to see extended family and catch up on what's been going on with each of them. I dare to say it is unique the way that our family can gather - from the youngest to the oldest - aunts, uncles, parents, grandparents, great-aunts and great uncles - as far apart as we all live, there is a connection and love that I really cherish.

Back to the baptism side of the weekend though. Kayley is 4 months old and was baptized in the United Methodist Church that I grew up in. Now, whether you believe in infant baptism or not let me tell you what I know from this experience. 1. On Sunday, I experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit in that church like I never have before. As the light was ushered past me to the altar, my heart and mind were filled with joy in anticipation. He stirred in a number of hearts that morning. And, 2. when taken purely and seriously, the covenant of baptism written in the United Methodist Hymnal is such an amazingly deep commitment. It is a commitment for the congregation and family of the person being baptized. Too often we treat the covenant as words on a page. It seems to me that there is power and presence of the Holy Spirit in baptism whether received as an infant or an adult. Do I have a preference, sure, but however it is done, I'm not going to limit what the Lord can and cannot do (not that I really could anyway, but it's better not to even try :).

It was quite an honor to be apart of this baptism service and I am excited to see how Kayley continues to learn and grow. As someone who was a part of the her baptism service I feel a great responsibility to do my part in leading her to faith in Jesus Christ. May He be glorified through the life of this young child!

Living vs. Existing

2007-08-27T20:23:00.000-05:00

To live is an everyday choice... What I mean is, we can go on existing without living. Existing seems to me to be what happens when each and every day we are the same as we were yesterday. Living is striving for abundant life - a life that is better today than it was yesterday. The problem comes when we try to find abundant life on our own or when we look to possessions or other people for abundant life. We can try our hardest and fight until we have no strength left, but every time we will come up short (I know, I've tried).

Abundant life is received. Not earned, not bought, simply received. When we go looking for the wrong things, in the wrong places, clawing our way through, I dare to say, we are still only existing. But, when we open ourselves to humbly receive, then, then we can live. To live we must simply receive what the One who created us did to redeem us. When we receive the redemption, the greatest love of all, a change takes place and each day we are compelled to be more like the one who saved us.

Are there still struggles? Everyday. See it is easier to go on existing; it is easier to give up. There are things in this world that try to de-rail those who are truly living - Believe me, I struggle quite often! But, each day we have the opportunity to decide what we will do with this life; Exist or Live. The more we choose to exist, the harder it is to live, but the more we decide to live, the harder it is to exist. In living, sometimes we stumble, but there is opportunity for repentance and forgiveness, even when we fall.

I want to encourage you to click play below (you may have to wait a minute for the player to finish loading). If you've ever struggled with living I think you can probably identify with this song. For me, it captures my struggle between existing and living. If you want to live - there is hope today.

Back in town

2007-08-16T15:01:00.000-05:00

It's official. Jeanine and I are back in good ol' Wilmore. We have arrived back in Wildcat territory, but I have to confess I'm still gone to Carolina in my mind (I'm singing it too!) Really, we had such an awesome summer! It was hard for both of us to leave Thomasville. We made some life-long friendships and saw God at work in so many ways. Many thanks to all the folks at Mt. Zion Wesleyan for their welcoming love and hospitality. We have memories that we will cherish for years to come!

Jeanine is already back in school teaching Freshman English again this year and I am trying to get re-adjusted to academic life here at Asbury. We are buckling up and settling in for our final year here in Wilmore.

May you feel the presence of the Lord in a special way today!
-Justin & Jeanine

USNWC

2007-08-05T10:54:00.002-05:00

Jeanine and I finally got the opportunity to meet up with my mom, Suzanne, and brother, Joseph to check out the new whitewater training facility in Charlotte. It was quite impressive. They do two hour raft trips just about all day every day and they have three different whitewater runs to choose from. They have multiple rock climbing walls and hiking and biking trails all over the place.

If I lived closer I could definitely learn to love this whitewater park. There is a lot of volume in a little area making the water a little pushy, and in constant motion. Just about every single eddy on the river is so strong that it actually has upstream flow to it. The rapids are really continuous. We really enjoyed exploring the park and watching all the rafts. The number of hard boaters was pretty low. We were able to demo some of the boats they have there, you just have to bring your own equipment. I think my favorite part was getting to ride the conveyor belt from the bottom pool to the top pool.

If you get the chance, definitely check this place out!

Hide and Seek

2007-07-22T14:17:00.001-05:00

I had the great opportunity to preach at Mt. Zion Wesleyan today! The is surely faithful. If you would like to hear the message from today simply click on the picture below. From there you can either download the message to your computer, or you can listen to it online.

Note to Self...

2007-07-22T14:17:00.000-05:00

Next time you go to a pool party... Seriously, where your swimsuit!

Many thanks to the teens and youth leaders that just wanted to "make sure I was baptized." :)

Beautiful Bahamas Beaches By Boat

2007-07-14T10:50:00.000-05:00

Well, really it was by a big ol' ship! Sovereign of the Seas

We just returned from our very first cruise. If you've ever been, you know what we mean...It was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives. If you love food, if you love seeing new things, if you love the beach or if you love the beauty of creation, you would love taking a cruise.

We took a four night cruise through the islands of the Bahamas. We stopped at the Royal Caribbean private island, Coco Cay and the capital of the Bahamas, Nassau. Coco Cay was probably the most relaxing place we've ever been. From hammocks between the Palms and the calm, clear blue water-we were looking for some real estate! Nassau was quite different, but still very interesting. There are over 250,000 people that live on New Providence Island (where Nassau is located). It was quite commercial, especially around the port. We walked over to Paradise Island where we got to go to the beach again, and where we got to see part of the Atlantis Resort. We also got to see some really cool churches, at least one of which was built in the mid 1700's.

From this cheeseburger in paradise to the midnight chocolate buffet there is non-stop amazing foods 24 hours a day. There were food options from all over the world at the breakfast buffet, the lunch buffet and the formal dining at dinner.

The cruise itself was so amazing, but even better were our cruising partners, Matt & Sarah. Even on a rainy walk in a foreign land, we had a great time! It's always an adventure :)
We could go on for hours! If you want to see more pictures from our trip, just click on the big picture below. It'll take you to our album online. If you're thinking about cruising, we highly recommend Royal Caribbean. As they say on the ship--"Get out there!"

Show and Tell

2007-06-29T15:46:00.000-05:00

So here are some pictures from our latest adventures here in the land of the Piedmont (we're not sure what that is, yet...)

We call it Alumni II. Seriously, it's about the same size as ol' Alumni Manor... except our neighbors don't have wild parties.

Pastor Justin, hard at work. (Actually, he's playing solitaire, but doesn't he look good??) Posh office space.

You can take the boy out of Wilmore, but you can't take the Wilmore out of the boy. We're finally sleeping in a place where you can't hear the trains, and look who has to go seek them out again...

The view from the driveway... and outlining Justin's long walk to work. So, why'd the chicken cross the road???

Contrary to appearances, Mt. Zion Wesleyan Church is not located on the side of a mountain. This is just a testament to Justin's stellar (or epileptic) photography skills!

Hard to believe this summer is half over already! We're headed to the Bahamas next week so we'll be posting more after that. See ya and Happy Summer.

Leptrascoptomologistarian

2007-06-14T15:18:00.000-05:00

What??? Yeah, I asked the same thing. That was the role I played in last night's VBS. It's a doctor that treats people with Leprosy. I don't know if it's a real doctor, but I know I had a great time teaching the fourth graders about Naaman.

In 2 Kings 5, Naaman, the strongest man in King Aram's army is diagnosed with Leprosy - a flesh eating disease with no known cure. Even in his disbelief, his obedience to the Lord healed him after washing seven times in the Jordan River. I am blessed by this story. If you have a minute, stop in 2 Kings 5 - it's a quick read.

We used an onion to simulate the smell of Leprosy...It was pretty gross! But, who knew water and a stainless steel spoon would take the smell away...In Naaman's case, and ours - even when it doesn't make sense, obedience to the Lord is the sweetest smell of all!

Things are going well here in NC. Bible School has been a lot of fun! I will post again soon with some pictures of our living accommodations and the church.

Room to grow...

2007-05-31T20:24:00.000-05:00

The first few weeks here at Mt. Zion Wesleyan Church have been really amazing! One of the key goals for the summer is simply growing in my relationship with the Lord. One of the first things my mentor said has stuck with me… in fact, I read these words every morning before I start my day.

“Until the burden for others is greater than the burden for yourself, you will never fully know the Power of Christ.”

These words just resonate in my heart and remind me that there is always room for growth. It is the journey of Holiness. Is Holiness what you long for? I’ve recently read that Holiness is like a bird… It must have two wings to fly… One wing is personal holiness, the other is social holiness. Without one or the other the bird is grounded.

Is your pursuit of Holiness soaring or grounded?

How are you seeing growth in your life?

Philippians 3:10-11 ¹⁰ I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, ¹¹ and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Summertime is here :)

2007-05-15T19:40:00.000-05:00

While the season of Summer is still about a month away, another semester has come to a close. I just want to give a little shout out to the 2007 graduating class from Asbury Seminary! There is much cause for celebration!

As for me, I'm going to be interning with Mt. Zion Wesleyan Church for the Summer. So Jeanine and I will be down in Thomasville, NC. We are excited to see how the Lord works and moves in this place and time, not only in our lives, but in the lives of this community.

Sorry to be so short again, but HAPPY SUMMER!!!

Embrace Souix Falls

2007-05-08T07:57:00.000-05:00

A dear friend of mine, Adam Weber is graduating from Asbury Seminary this month. He and his wife Becky are headed back to South Dakota where they are being called to plant a church. Filled with compassion and the message of the Gospel, many lives are sure to be touched and changed through the work of God in these two people. The church is already off the ground and ministering to people in the Sioux Falls area. I definitely want to encourage you to check out their website and pray for the church as the seek to serve the Lord faithfully.

In Love and Prayer,
www.embracesiouxfalls.com

Two Brothers...Two Marines

2007-05-04T22:42:00.000-05:00

Jeanine's brother, Stephen (aka: Tony) graduated from the Parris Island, SC Marine recruit training facility just a couple weeks ago. It's been such an amazing experience to be a part of not only his graduation experience, but Jeanine's brother Dustin's graduation just six weeks before. We are quite proud of both of these Marines and we ask that you remember all of our Armed Forces in your thoughts and prayers (certainly including the Commander in Chief). Check out the video here, below to get a little glimpse of the celebration!

A little adventure...ordeal even!

2007-04-26T20:56:00.000-05:00

Just making a quick interjection here before I make the next post -
The group that I am apart of recently set out on a little adventure. Let's just say it involved 6 guys, a truck, holding hands, and some blind folds. You may at this point be questioning what I am learning in seminary...but click on the pictures below to find out more about this adventure:
http://asburyfellowship.blogspot.com/2007/04/shared-ordeal.html