7.29.2009
It's running rampant in our culture and it's breaking God's heart. People are leaving the family because of trivial things like carpet color, song selection, screen colors, and the list goes on. Check out a bit of Brian's article...
"We've become a nation of church shoppers. If the preaching gets boring at our church, we pull out the yellow pages. If the worship style changes, we go to First Church's early service. If our Sunday school class starts to get too impersonal, we don't sweat it, we try the hot new church in town.
We Christians change churches like we change favorite restaurants.
I'm sure that makes God sad.
In the New Testament there are dozens and dozens of things Christians are told to do. Leaving one another is not one of them.
In fact, we're told to do the exact opposite.
Is there someone at your church you can't stand? 1 John 3:11 tells us to "Love one another."
Did the pastor at your fellowship hurt your feelings? Colossians 3:13 says, "Forgive one another."
Do the attitudes of the people in your body need to change? James 5:16 says, "Pray for one another."
In other words, roll up your sleeves and do the hard work of building community where you are. Don't go AWOL spiritually. Stick it out, through exciting times and boring times. Pray, serve, love, forgive, sacrifice, and resolve like authentic followers of Jesus."
Want to view the entire article? Click Here. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. I have more coming later this week on the same topic, but from a different angle.
7.28.2009
Reading today through Matthew 7 reminds me about how much of a jerk we can all be at times. It's so easy to point out faults in others while we sit there loaded up with problems, sin, inconsistencies, and the list goes on. The thing is- we cannot seem to ever really notice it in our own lives as quickly as we can in others. These verses in today's reading almost make it comical if you can visualize the difference. Check it out:
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye, when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye"
Matthew 7:1-5
If I saw this literally take place with saw dust and planks of wood in people's eyes- it would probably have thousands of hits on YouTube, but unfortunately, it happens everyday in the church and many don't think anything of it. It's time to start looking in the mirror (I know I do on a daily basis) and remind ourselves about the mission, what truly matters, and work on ourselves before we start throwing rocks at people's character and spiritual walk.
Jason *over and out*
James, our Student Ministry Guru, was tasked with creating some artwork to bring our brand spankin' new space to life. This week, he started projecting & sketching out the mural. It will be a city street background with people all along the street in different styles, walks of life, etc. Showing how God's people come in all kinds of looks, but only one designer. It's going to be great once it all comes together.
Our plan is to have multiple training sessions, gatherings, worship events, baptisms, etc. in this space. The things we're needing to make it come together are black metal folding chairs and portable a/c units to cool the HUGE space. If you're interested in helping with this, contact lisa@forefront.org or if you wanted to give online check out giving.forefront.org
Check out the time lapse video of the first part and how much time is going into this space.
7.27.2009
So here it is! The brand new office that everyone has been talking about! (Okay, maybe not everyone, but here at the office it’s been the highlight of conversation.) While Jason was away doing some amazing things in Vietnam (check previous blogs for more info on that) the student ministry/creative arts team decided to takeover his blog and show you around the new office. Get ready to be wowed as James takes you around the office and delivers spectacular commentary (or so he thinks) on our brand new office space! Peace out!
-DaveTheIntern
So, Sunday's message had a ton of visuals as well as a couple of videos in the mix. To really get the full feeling of this week's podcast, this post is an aid to accompany the audio and give you the complete experience.
Link to the Photos:
http://www.jbedell.com/media/message_photos.zip
Link to first video:
http://www.vimeo.com/5786557
Link to second video:
http://www.vimeo.com/5784521
During our trip to Vietnam, I read (for the 5th time) "The Irresistible Revolution" by Shane Claiborne. I encouraged our team to read it when they got home and Sunday in the message shared a humbling story of a homeless community, the Catholic church, and city hell bent on kicking the poor to the curb. It's well worth the read and will bring you back to the place you first started your journey with Jesus (also known as the gutter he finds us in before knowing His love).
Check it out and let me know your thoughts.
Jason *over and out*
We continued with our series, I Love The 80's in true fashion with a tribute to Tina Turner. Becky, our Children's Pastor play the role of Tina and it went over great on Sunday. Hats off to our team of creatives who put this together while I was away. I cannot say enough how amazing it is to work with a stellar team who knows how to hit it out of the park as well as keep it consisently great from week to week. You guys (and gals) rock my world.
Without further delay, here is the video. Enjoy.
who prayed, donated, and allowed us to be a part of this amazing adventure. Michael, Abby, Scott, Bob, Keith, Stacey and myself had an awesome time sitting at the feet of God. It was a time to refocus and listen to his voice in a way that was much needed (for all of us). This week, I'm going to be posting a bit of video, some stories, and things that happened throughout the week.
Also, with my first Sunday back- some interesting things transpired. I'll share all the good, bad, and ugly later. But, just wanted to say thank you again and you'll be hearing much more about the trip as things progress this week.
Jason *over and out*
7.25.2009
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
Restore. To bring back into existence or use; reestablish. In the reading today, it's the word that pops up a few times and it rings so loud I can barely hear the thoughts in my head. It reminds me of the very moment God pulled me from the wreckage. Do you remember the moment when it happened for you? or Have you never experienced the life change of God's love & grace?
When I read, "Restore us, O God. Restore us, O God Almighty" I tear up. I relive the moment God began an amazing journey in these ol' vans. And, He's not done with me yet. He's not done with you either. Shout out to God to restore your heart and change your life. You won't regret it.
Jason *over and out*
7.24.2009
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
I love salty fries. LOVE 'EM! I've changed my diet so it's been tough to watch others enjoy them, but one day I'll introduce them here and there. I know salt isn't good for my body, but it does have it's uses and we see it here in Matthew 5 of today's reading. Salt can be used to preserve food. Before refrigeration and such, salt was used to keep meat for a longer period of time. But here is this passage Jesus refers to Christians as salt and warns us of losing ground...
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.
Jesus lays it out, "Don't lose your life giving power to others. Stay connected to me. If you and I aren't working together and close, you'll lose it and fall away to be trampled by the world." I needed to hear this in a big way because it's a reminder that focus on Jesus and the mission is so HUGE. Don't forget that He has given the gift of life and grace. Live that out in a big way today and share life with people who are far from God. Now, go live life.
Jason *over and out*
7.23.2009
So, we're back in Hanoi after a great week of following God and working with the Mien people. It's really hard to throw all the things we've learned, seen, and felt into a blog post so quickly. In a couple hours we begin the 48+ hours of travel home. It's roughly 12,973 miles of travel from Hanoi to VA.
Please continue to pray for the team as we travel back to the states and process all we've seen and heard. Also (and more importantly), pray for the people of Vietnam as we work with them for the 2010 projects. This isn't a trip, it's a relationship between two countries to bring a better way of living and to eventually (Lord willing) come to a place where we will be free to share God's message with them and they will be able to respond without fear of persecution.
On Sunday we will load videos of the trip and stories. Throughout the coming week we will be posting testimonies from the team members of how God moved in them through this trip. Thanks again for all of your prayers and support.
The Vietnam Team
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
It's time for a little honesty, "I'm not a fighter." I know, you all are shocked, in awe, and life as you know it will never be the same as your sleep pattern has been rocked. Anyway, even if I wanted to get into a fight, I wouldn't have the skills to fight back. I have ZERO upper body strength. I do know how to run though. When attacked or in trouble, it's good to have a plan. And in today's reading of Matthew 4, Jesus shows us how to fight back with a plan...
Satan attacks. Jesus strike back with... Bible verses?
Satan attacks. Jesus throws it back with... scriptures?
Satan attacks, again. Jesus yet again uses... God's Word?
I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but I'm beginning to see a pattern. What about you?
Jason *over and out*
7.22.2009
So, we've wrapped up day 3 of working in the Ta Phin Community (we'll be catching up with video soon enough, thanks for being patient). God is showing some big love to the people there, but He's also loving on us. Kind of like the theme in Psalm 141, "God's love has really knocked us all down" it's so unreal. Hearing His voice and feeling His touch is something we are really receptive to right now.
We finished up much of the water project (a little more to do tomorrow), bought 20+ blankets for the kindergarten, painted/revived the schools outdoor mural, moved rocks and rocks and rocks... and rocks, and cleared out their large garden they use to feed the children during the school year. It's been an honor to serve alongside the people in Ta Phin and we cannot thank GVI (Glocal Ventures) enough for allowing us to partern with them to share love with the Mien people.
We had some more great interactions with the locals today, but I will let your loved ones share more when they get home. We are excited to be doing this work and glad we have the opportunity to share it with you. Our prayer is that it doesn't end with all of you reading and feeling joy about the work, but that God would move you to join in to help these people in their journey.
Much Love,
The Vietnam Team
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
When I read today's passage in Matthew 3, I realize I have a bit of a "Man Crush" on John the Baptist. I'm sort of kidding, but not, or something... uh, nevermind. This is awkward. Let's move on. Check out verses 11 and 14.
11 "...But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." 14 "But John tried to deter him, saying, 'I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?'"
John had such a humble attitude towards Jesus. He considered himself unworthy because of the love and power of Jesus. John knew his place and where his life was in comparison to the mission of God's love of grace. In a world where men and women look for status, money, power, and fame- it's refreshing to see a guy like John who acknowledges the magnitude of Jesus and in the same breath expresses his unworthiness. John, I want to be like you. In heaven, I will probably stalk you. Just letting you know now. I wonder if God hands out restraining orders in heaven? Hhhhmmmm. Ponder that people. Until then...
Jason *over and out*
7.21.2009
It's 7:32 a.m. on Wednesday morning. We're a little behind in updates, but we've been working hard so please bare with us. Here is the video from Sunday/Monday when we arrived in Hanoi, then headed to Lao Cai, with our final destination of Sapa and Ta Phin. We'll have more updates later today (or tonight/tomorrow for you all).
Thanks for being patient as you await news and for all of your prayers. This is an amazing experience for the whole team. And... big news is coming about future projects. Stay Tuned.
Peace and Love- The Vietnam Team
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
In Matthew 2, Joseph has an angel come to him in a dream to let him know, "Hey man, get the fam and bolt outta here. The king heard about your son (ya know, the God's little one) and wants Him dead. So move it."
I'm thinking if you have an angel come to you to warn ya about something- YOU'RE GOING TO MOVE. But, how come God tells us to move on things in our lives and we just... sit still. Seriously? It's like God is whispering to us and saying, "Pssssst... get up and go." And we just kick it on the couch with another episode of Big Brother or LOST and ignore His leading. Last time I checked, when you don't obey God you end up thinking life is over in the belly of a large fish. Just sayin'.
So, how about we listen to Him today. What's God trying to move us towards? How is He telling you to get up and go? Whatever it is- do it.
Jason *over and out*
7.20.2009
We had planned on loading and posting this the day after it happened, but Malaysia had slooooooooowwwww web connections. So, here is our fun-loving day spent together as a team in Luala Lumpur right before we headed into Vietnam. Enjoy.
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
Ever had a family member you wanted to deny being related to? I mean, someone who just embarrassed you to no end? Well, you're in good company... with Jesus. The perfect, sinless, savior of the world has a pretty interesting family tree in today's reading of Matthew 1.
The interesting thing is even though Jesus is related to Adulterers, Murderers, Kings, High Up Officials, Drunkards, Whores, and more... His name is spotless. God used Him to save the world. He took a dirty, broken, and beaten path of history and used it to redeem the world from death. If God can do that, what do you think He can do with you?
How does God need to transform your heart so your relationship can be closer and He can use you in a greater capacity? Share and open up people. Let's see the hearts on your sleeve...
Jason *over and out*
So we're here doing work. One word- amazing. The team is so excited to be on this journey and the people make it all worth while. We visited the school where the last three years of work have been done (concrete, water, teacher's conference, etc) and ventured up to the original water source. I literally began to weep. Watching the way things have moved with God's hand on it has been unreal.
We begin the water project at the elementary school at the base of the Ta Phin village later today. Now it's the process of buying supplies, getting the work team together, and getting things under way.
As I spoke with Lamah, a local who lives near the school. She invited us in for tea and showed us her home. Unbelievable. Her hospitality, pride in her home and her family were amazing. "HE" is doing some great work here through the hands of His people... and we count ourselves honored to be a part of it.
All of the GVI staff say hello and send hugs and kisses to all the teams that have come before. EVERYONE remembers Dan Pollard. I mean everyone. It's craziness. I think they might erect a statue in his honor at some point. He's that huge here, seriously. (I'm trying to get them to make an ice sculpture, but we'll see what we can do)
Gotta go, we love you all. Leave comments on the blog and we'll relay them to your loved ones.
Much love,
The Vietnam Team (via Jason typing)
7.19.2009
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
Seriously? No, seriously?! How did they not hold strong to God? The Israelites are being discussed here in Psalm 78 and they kept turning away from God. Their fathers passed it down. Their leaders told the stories. Their grandfathers shared the experiences. I mean look what God did:
- Miracles in Egypt (vs. 11-12)
- Divided the Sea (vs. 13)
- Guided with Cloud by Day (vs. 14)
- Guided with Fire by Night (vs. 14)
- Split Rocks and made Water Come Out! (vs. 15-16)
What else do you need people! Well, I'm pretty sure I'm in their camp right along side them. God has given me an amazing wife & daughter, great church, unreal staff, a great extended family, and He continues to show me how He moves in my life. And still, I walk the other direction every single day by turning my back on Him and trampling on the blood of Jesus. Man, seeing this passage today is so needed for me. Maybe for you it's asking God to forgive your times of sin and turning against Him. Possibly what you need to do is ask Him for forgiveness and confess your shortcomings to someone who can hold you accountable. And when you begin to draw closer to God, maybe you'll remember the times He showed up in HUGE ways. Maybe you'll start to recognize when God moves in your life daily. I pray you do. Because He's moving, just look around.
Jason *over and out*
7.18.2009
So, we're waiting for the plane to take us to Vietnam. This morning we had our first team devotional where we discussed how real this is getting ready to become. Also, the idea that this is not simply a "trip." If this starts now and stops when we get back to the states, that is disappointing. As we looked at the life of Ruth in the Old Testament and dove into some Psalms- we realized God has called us to be the rescue workers and defenders of the weak, weary, tired, and living in darkness.
As we travel, we might not have the opportunities we might like to simply share our faith verbally, but God is providing multiple opportunities to share our relationship with Him by our actions. How we speak, respond and treat those around us. Everyone is watching. The question is... what are they seeing in us?
As our friends and family watch on via Twitter, Facebook, & this Blog- we thank you for your continued prayers. It is so great knowing hundreds of people are praying for the work there and the people of Vietnam. There is no doubt that God is showing up in a big way with the work in Ta Phin, our prayer is that we will be receptive to hearing Him and respond simply with, "Yes Lord, we will do as You say."
We'll shoot day end blasts via all the "tech" outlets once we get to work there in Vietnam. Talk to you all soon.
Jason *over and out*
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
In today's reading of Proverbs 19 there are tons of great nuggets of wisdom, but there is one that will speak volumes to all you married guys out there (listen up ladies & sons just in case you fit this mold). Check out Proverbs 19:13...
"A foolish son is his father's ruin,
and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping."
I'm not sayin' anything about my wife (whom I love with all my heart), but ladies & sons- read and heed people. Ha Ha.
Jason *over and out*
7.17.2009
We'll be able to update again then. Abby isn't in the photo because
she's in the little girls room. I'm sure she will appreciate that.
Thnx for all your prayers.
Hey Peeps! I'm gone on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
With today's passages, Psalms 76 and 77, there is one verse that just sits heavy with me. Check out verse 12 of Chapter 76:
"He breaks the spirit of rulers;
he is feared by the kings of the earth."
Seriously?! Where is this happening? As I look around the globe I see rulers, leaders, and kings who don't give two seconds of thought to the idea of God. But... God has that power. And one day all men with drop before Him with broken hearts and fear, including leaders and powerful people. As I travel to Vietnam, I wonder what God is doing on the hearts of the leaders right now?
"Are you molding them, God?"
"Right now are you moving their hearts to accept our ideas?"
"What words will you give us to say?"
"How will you move and will we see it?"
"Will it take days? Months? Years?"
All I know is that He is in control and God is doing amazing things through us. We may just be putting in clean water, but He is going to do much more. I'm convinced of it. So, maybe for you it's asking God to use you today. Ask Him to move your heart and be receptive to how He's gonna prompt you. And when he does ask you to do something... jump on it and make it happen.
Jason *over and out*
So, we've landed safe in Stockholm and in the process of waiting in Newark, we met some friends. These girls saw our team doing this crazy dance and wanted to do it to.
Here is the video of the infamous, "Matt Dance!" Enjoy.
7.16.2009
haven't left anyone behind. We're currently at the Newark Airport and
will be flying out at 10pm.
Please continue to pray for our team as we travel to Stockholm,
Amsterdam, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Once there, we will begin this
amazing project that God has laid the groundwork for over 8 years
ago... when leaders from Forefront were led to adopt the Mien people.
And now, the doors are open to share life with them. It's amazing.
I know it's the right thing to do. Following God isn't easy and
sometimes it calls for sacrifice. To all the families who are sending
loved ones- thank you for letting us borrow your husband, wife, mom or
dad. They are in the greatest hands of all with God on their side.
Looking forward to just getting on the ground there and following what
He has in store for us. Until next time,
Jason *over and out*
p.s. look at how cute my ladies are. they are gonna party the entire
time while I'm gone. man, they're the best. love u girls
Hey Peeps! I'm leaving on a missions trip to Vietnam, but I've posted my personal study thoughts from each day and I'll be re-reading the passages along with you while I'm across the globe. Enjoy.
So, today's reading is from Colossians 4 and I don't think it could come at a better time. I remember when we'd leave the house my mom would always remind us to "behave, listen, be polite, and don't act up or she'll have to give us a spankin'!" It wasn't always easy or what we wanted to hear, but she was right. We needed some parting words before we headed out into public as a family.
Paul has some parting words that ring so true as we leave for an amazing journey and for you as you go work work, see your neighbors, spend time with friends, and interact with people who you're not sure where they stand with God. Check this out:
"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." - Colossians 4:2-6
Now take Paul's words and let today be a day for you to be wise with others, seize opportunities, and show some grace and love. Who knows, God may just show up and do something miraculous in the process!
Jason *over and out*
7.15.2009
So, it's 10:00 pm on July 15th and we leave tomorrow to head to Vietnam. Trying to prepare my heart and mind for what God is going to use us to do. See you guys as the other side... (video below).
Jason *over and out*
7.14.2009
The Forefront portion of the July Team (Area 10 is also sending a group) is heading out on Thursday morning from Newport News via train to Newark. We'll stop in Richmond to meet with the rest of the team and continue in route.
If you would like to see the team off and pray with us before heading out, we'll be at the Forefront Offices at 7:10 am and leaving promptly at 7:30 am to catch our train. We'd love to see you there. The office address is 2697 International Parkway, Suite 3-132, Virginia Beach, VA 23452.
Please pray for us as we head across the globe to share life with people who are far from God.
Jason *over and out*
I'm not always the biggest fan of many pastors, teachers, preachers out there. But, I had followed a link from a friend's twitter update to a great video. Matt Chandler is one guy I truly admire. He's teaching style is engaging and I love his illustration here. At Forefront, we repeat and repeat this idea that God is interested in all of us. The ugliness, bitterness, and beat up lives that are broken- He wants to repair them and make them new. He desires the broken.
I was in my daily reading this morning (Colossians 2) and verses 20-22 really stuck with me:
"Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: 'Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!'? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings."
For a long time I had a rules and regulations kind of relationship with God. When I lived in that I was unhappy, had a lack of fulfillment, and constantly felt like I wasn't good enough for God. But, there's good news... it's a bunch of malarkey! God isn't a you better wear your suit and tie, don't watch Terminator 3, make sure you never listen to hip hop or rock n' roll God. His heart is for relationships. A true and trusting, deep-into-your-heart kind of relationship. When you and I turn our attention to the cross and surrender our lives to God- the rules and regulations type of living is out and the life of love and grace is in.
Now that the burden is lifted, go live for God without man made boundaries.
Jason *over and out*
We're in this series, "I Love The 80's!" and you might not been made aware, but James and I used to have an 80's band (unfortunately we chose to do it in 2006) and it flopped. But, we managed to shoot a video for one of our songs. Check it out...
7.11.2009
Tomorrow we keep it rolling with our series, "I LOVE THE 80's!" Bring some friends because they won't want to miss it.
Jason *over and out*
7.10.2009
Just be there.
Sunday. 10 am.
Ocean Lakes High School
www.forefront.org
7.09.2009
Two students from Kingston University in London stepped up to a challenge- "Present an idea which promotes HP Workstations ability to bring to life anything the creative mind can conceive."
I believe they accomplished their goal. I'm impressed because I cannot even get my printer to work half the time. Alrighty peeps, hope that gets your creative juices flowing this morning.
Jason *over and out*
7.08.2009
We've been in the process of moving our office space, so blogging, tweeting, & facebook have been on a slight hiatus. Luckily, we're getting settled and things are coming together. We'll be showing off the new digs here on the blog, but for now- enjoy the view through my little window in my office and you can also peep a look at my two-wheeled transportation to and from work (I am loving riding in the morning, but riding home is the longest moment of my life, ha).
We're about 100 yards away from where we were before, but the space is great. our new address is:
2697 International Parkway
Suite 3-132
Va Beach, VA 23452
Jason *over and out*
Lather, Rinse, Repeat.
Wake up, Commute, Work 9-5, Back Home, Sleep, Repeat.
Check bank account, Give, Pay bills, Pray for God to work a miracle, Repeat.
Our lives are full of repetition. Sometimes the daily grind can be overwhelming. In today's personal study I hit something I never really latched onto before in Philippians 3. Paul's opening words to the church at Philipi...
"Finally, 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."
Paul has mentioned this before, but without apology brings it up again- "rejoice in the Lord! (the exclamation is the NIV, not me, but I agree whole-heartedly)" And Paul considers it a safeguard for them. He's like, "Hey, remember to have an overflowing joy because of Jesus and I'll keep saying it because it will help get through the thick skulls we all have. God is our joy. He's the giver of life! Don't forget it." So maybe my kindergarten teacher Ms. White was right, "Repeat until you never can forget it."
Jason *over and out*
Just purchased this album last night on iTunes: Search The City, "A Fire So Big The Heavens Can See It." It's a pop-rock/alternative album that does a good job of overlaying guitars riffs, breakdowns, and solid drumming with lyrics about searching for meaning and existence.
It seems to be the outcry of the 20-30 somethings (or really mankind since the beginning of time if we want to get technical). "I want something more. What are we hear for? I want deep relationships. How do I stay focused in life? Am I missing my big opportunity? Where do I get these answers?"
"The Rescue" is a track that clearly is talking about interpersonal relationships. Two people had a great relationship, but one drifted off onto a rocky path and became distant. The other friend is trying desperately to do everything to pull them out of the wreckage. I love the chorus:
"This is the rescue, the rescue. The reason I've been holding my breath every night. This is where we collide."
I heard at a very young age the saying, "Don't hold your breath." Through life I've listened as people use it pretty regularly as a way to show a lack of faith in humanity, God, outcomes in life, etc. When did you lose our faith in people? When did you realize you didn't count on others? How are you with God? Do you have faith He can move and breathe into your life? or... Do you wander through this earthly existence thinking everything and everyone is a total let down?
The one true God I know is in the business of transforming lives and always keeps His promises. Don't give up on people or relationships, because holding your breath and praying harder than ever before is just maybe what God is waiting for. And at that point He shows up to create a beautiful collision between you and Him or maybe you and the life or someone who needs to be transformed by Him.
So, here's to holding our breath. Who wants to join in?
Jason *over and out*