2008 in Review

Between a historic Presidential election, a huge economic crisis, and a world record breaking summer olympics, 2008 has been quite a year!

Here are my top memories/thoughts for 2008, broken down month to month.

Jan.

Under a Ton of Spiritual Warfare and God ROCKED my WORLD!

Feb.

Stepped down from the Church I was at in faith.  Had no financial security lined up.  But knew it was what God wanted me to do.

April

Spent some time in Jamaica

May

Celebrated my very 1st Wedding Anniversary with the greatest person in the world.

July

Went home to Indiana for a visit.  While there my friend Bryan who has had Cystic Fibrosis all of his life passed away.  Knew without a shadow of a doubt that he is hanging with Jesus!  

Aug.

God opened a door for a job as well as getting a student ministry started at the church we were attending!

Oct.

Cyndi and I witnessed our friends John and Jamie get engaged!  Went spent some much needed time in Jamaica with our little girl.  Also started the adoption process of Monecia. Moved to a lot cheaper place with a lot more space.

Nov.

Received news that we are also going to be adopting a newborn...due in Jan.  Had our first Thanksgiving ever at our home, lots of family and friends!  Celebrated Cyndi's 25th birthday!  GREAT MONTH!

Dec.

Had an awesome Christmas!  Stayed home for Christmas (first time for that too).  My Granny (grandma) passed away.  I performed the service.  Know that she is hanging with my friend Bryan but kicking it with Jesus.  Spent time with my family and celebrated a great year.

Okay, so my life may not be too exciting but this year in summary has been all about Jesus and my family!  I grew so much closer to Jesus (read through 12 Books of the Bible in detail) and spent a ton of time in prayer!  God has been opening doors and looks like He is opening even more in 2009!  But my family has also been a big part of 2008 and now we are going to increase our family in 2009!  GOD IS GREAT!

Sometimes I feel I've got to...

Duh duh...run away. I've got to... Duh duh...get away.

Seriously sometimes life gets just so crazy and so busy and stuff just happens were I feel like jumping on a huge cruise ship with my wife, family and friends and never look back.

I will admit that the last few days I've been a bit down and life just has been flying by. It was today in which I heard God tell me, "look boy, seek me. Give everything to me. Remember Jeremiah be still and know."

To a hyperactive crazy person like myself, being still is easier said than done. But the WORD says, "be STILL and KNOW that I am God.". This comes from Psalms 46:10. During busy times it is a great reminder.

A Time of Reflection

I know it has been quite some time since my last post, but I will be honest with you blogging was definitely not a priority.  Taking care and making sure my family knows that I love them has been!

Last Monday, I received a phone call from my Mom telling me that she was making an emergency flight to TN.  My initial thoughts were, my crazy family is fighting or doing something or something happened, and Mom was going to get my Granny (my Grandma) and come home for Christmas.  Unfortunately, the emergency trip happened to be concerning my Granny.  

Many years ago she was diagnosed with Emphysema.  This was a result of smoking packs upon packs of cigarettes since she was 9 years old.  Well her emphysema led to her getting a pneumonia and resulting in her body just shutting down.  My Mom and Aunts and Uncles had some tough decisions to make.  But eventually from the time my Granny was taken into ICU to the time she passed away was about 49 hours.  She was tired! And God was ready for her to rest!

Granny Billie Ruth Lawson was a grouchy, mean, loud, kind, loving, compassionate, and very faithful woman.  She committed to her life to Jesus many years ago but became very backslidden.  However, recently she recommitted her life and was trying to turn it around.  But amongst all the drama (another story for another time) and the mourning of the passing of a very special person.  We can rejoice in the fact that I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that I will see her again someday!

Help Needed!

Okay, so there are just a few more shopping days till Christmas and I am stuck!

I've got a few Christmas ideas but not for everyone on my list.  So what are some ideas for gifts for my parents, Cyndi's parents, and oh yeah still need to get some stuff for Cyndi.  ANY IDEAS?

Patience is a Virtue...

That I don't have!  I never really have been a patient person.  Every time I pray for it, God always sends a challenging situation my way. 

I am not saying that God has put me in a challenging situation but I always get a little antsy right around Christmas.  I love Christmas!  But this year is a little extra special for me.  This will be the last Christmas that it is just Cyndi and I.  I am also getting a little antsy that in a month in a half we are going to be blessed with a little one.  Someone that God is entrusting me and Cyndi to be responsible for and raise up to love, respect and follow Him.  WOW, what a calling!

Please pray for Cyndi and I as we embark on this adventure, but also pray for Monecia as we are still trying everything in our power to get her as soon as possible as well!  God is good!

It's that time of year again!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

From the Book of Ezra

I have been reading the book of Ezra for about the last week and here are some of my initial thoughts:

• It's amazing that God is still stirring in the hearts of leaders today!  My prayer is that He continues and shows up big!!! -1.1
• People are very important to God...if it weren't so why would he want us to know so many names of the families of the people of the citizens of the people of the gatekeepers of the singers of....WOW!  -2.3-57
• I really like the name Zaccai!  Gotta find out what it means. -2.9
• I love that the people assembled with a unified purpose!  I would love to see churches today do this! -3.1
• I really like that God's people waisted no time rebuilding the temple and everyone, catch that?  EVERYONE helped! -3
• Discouragement and frustration and even intimidation may come along, but we must continue doing what GOD has commanded us to do! -4.4

Baby Name Poll

Be sure to take a look at the poll to the right --->

Which one of these names do you think we should name our future child?  Just a fun, and totally random idea!!

A Great Conversation

Sunday night...a night full of interesting conversations.  One of which was an announcement that Cyndi and I will getting a baby.  That's right a new born baby at the end of January, beginning of February.  No, Cyndi is not pregnant!  But we are stepping up to one of the callings that God has placed in our life.  Yes, we are still trying to get Monecia and have not given up any type of hope for that.  But God sort of put us in a place where we need to step up to the plate for this unborn child.

However, this is not the conversation that was so great.  I got to speak to my hero...my Dad.  I don't get to talk with him very often because of our schedules but we had about an hour conversation just about life, and being a dad.  He told me how proud of me he is.  I love my family and have learned so much from them and really appreciate where I come from!  I AM BLESSED

I VOTED!

That's right, it is one of my favorite times of the year.  I seriously love elections.  I personally am so thankful for everyone past, present, and future, who has ever stood up and fought for my rights as an American.  This is why I feel so passionate about voting and voting in every election!

Well here is my voting experience.

My voting day started off at 10am.  I didn't need to be to work until 3pm and I was told to go after 10am to ensure the shortest lines possible.  So I arrive to my polling place at about 10:30am.  Not to bad eh?  My line stretched out of the elementary school through the front side walk and around the side of the building.  No big deal eh?  20 mins go by and I maybe moved 5 feet.  No joke.  An hour passes, then two, then three, then four.  By the fourth hour I was pretty hungry and debating is this worth it?  I was close to the door but was it worth it?  I needed to be to work in about half an hour...it's looking like I'm not going to make it.  Do I give up and go to work and maybe try to come back during my lunch break?  No!  I've come to far.  So after standing in the rain for 4 hours I wasn't feeling to good, so I called in sick.  After calling in sick, I decided I have to vote!  By the time I cast my ballot the time was 3:50pm.  That's right 5 hours 20 minutes later I voted.

Who did I vote for?  Well, let me first say, I SUPPORT MY PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA!  Seriously, for the longest time I was torn between him and McCain.  And I decided to vote for McCain.  Does this make me week, ignorant, or just an idiot?  Maybe.  HOWEVER, I love our President to be.  I have already began praying for him, and I hope that he brings the change needed.  It's got to be a tough job being a Dad, and the leader of the greatest nation in the world.  

Congratulations!

It's been awhile since my last blog post, but Cyndi and I got to go to Jamaica last weekend to spend some time with our little girl and our friends John and Jamie. While in Jamaica John asked Jamie if she would "spend the rest of her days" with him...and of course, she said yes!!

Congratulations to two of the greatest people in the world!! And John I am very honored to call you one of my best friends and very honored to be a part of your days!

I Have A Confession

I know that I am a chosen, ordained (set apart), called, and most of all, adopted son of God. But I have a confession to make... I don't always feel that way!

I have known since I was 16 years old that God has called me to be a pastor, but sometimes I don't understand why. Do any of us actually know why?

Lately, He has really been stirring in my heart something more. Something bigger than what I could ever accomplish and l scared. Honestly, scared that I will fail, embarrass myself, my family and my friends. And my initial reaction is to run away. However, this burning passion is driving me in a lot of directions. The adventure continues.

In Just a Few Days

Today it hit me!  My beautiful wife and I will be leaving in about a week and a half to go see the little one we will soon call our daughter!  

Cyndi and I have the opportunity to go to Jamaica for just a few days on the 23rd of this month, to spend a few days with our friends John and Jamie, as well as our friends who are pastors on the island, Dwight and Shanda!  I cannot wait.  But what we are most excited for is spending some precious time with Monicea Ashanti soon to be Brown. 

This little girl literally lights up my day just thinking about her!  And Cyndi and I get to really push forward on the adoption.   Thank you Jesus for the calling you have placed on our life!

Keeping Busy

It has been awhile since my last post and I know that I have been slacking.

So much is happening though in my world...

1st- We have finally kicked off student ministry at Seacoast Church at James Island!  And what an impact this has already been!  We have seen a lot of students come to be a part of what's going on.  To kick off we beat up a car and already within the first week of having Student Ministry we have already had an all nighter with our Middle Schooler!

2nd- Cyndi and I have been packing.  And when we haven't been packing, we've been thinking of packing.  We are making a shift in our housing, which we are thrilled about!  We are getting a much bigger place for a lot less!

3rd - We are planning on going to Jamaica towards the end of October.  The main reason is to try and setup an appointment to get the process rolling on the adoption of Monicea.  Please pray for us as we are in this process as well as we find the funds both to travel to Jamaica as well as the adoption.

4th- Our friends Matt & Kathy had their baby girl today!! (Okay, Kathy had her...Matt just helped).  Congrats to them!  Got to talk to Matt tonight on the phone and he is pretty stoked!  Matt and Kathy are two of the coolest people and two of the most awesomest parents ever!  

Well, thats about all of my ramblings for this night!

Something I Have Learned

As I sit here reflecting on this past week, I am being drawn to what I experienced on Sunday.

This past Sunday we kicked off a brand new student ministry, and here is the kicker...this is the very first time I have had enough volunteers!  I am not saying we don't need anymore, but I am saying we had a great team to kick off.

As I have been working with my team I have realized a few things:

1. Volunteers are essential!  - Seriously as a body of Believers we have got to give our time and talents to make Jesus known.

2. Volunteers need to be treated as though they matter! - This should be a no brainer. I have experienced a few situations where volunteers were treated as though they HAD to be a part of the ministry and were told HOW to do ministry, WHEN to do it, and weren't given any room for ownership.  Want to be able to keep your programs/ministries running so that you can continue to reach out?  Keep your volunteers involved, growing, and most of all give them ownership!

I love being able to spend time focusing on volunteers and connecting with them, but most of all I am loving watching them serve, grow, and impact a great group of students!

Welcome to the World of Blogging

Our good friend Courtney has joined the blogging world.  And she has already posted two blogs! One is especially good!  Check her out by clicking here.

Going through a Storm

Last night we were graced by the presence of Tropical Storm Hanna.

Honestly, it could have been much worse (especially here in Charleston).  I have been through a couple of Tropical Storms and this one really didn't do much.  Lots of rain, but for the most part I slept through the entire thing.

I did wake up this morning and discover that our tennis court was completely flooded but that it!

As I was preparing for Tropical Storm Hanna a few thoughts about storms in life came to mind and I was reminded that storms do come up.  Stuff happens and when there really is no end in sight, that is when we tend to call upon God.  This last year has been an interesting year for me personally, and spiritually.  I have had a few "storms" come up myself and I have really learned to lean on God through it all.  But more importantly I have been striving to put Jesus as the center of everything...not just the storms!  Hanna was a good reminder to keep striving for this!

Times...They Are A Changing

A few years ago, Juli, a good friend of mine, told me that she felt that at that current moment that one of her spiritual gifts was the gift of change. Meaning that things were always changing in her life and she finally just had to embrace it.

Recently, I have felt this to be true in my life. The old saying rings true, that the only thing that is a constant in my life is change. Seriously, God is up to something. He led us to a new ministry, a new home (in a few weeks), even a new car this past weekend! I know this doesn't seem like anything, but if you only knew half of the spiritual changes that have taken placed, I thinked you would be amazed.

Just a few ramblings for a random day.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Living a Dangerous Life

Recently I have been challenge with the thought of living a dangerous life, especially in my journey with Jesus.

This challenge was sort of centered around three main ideas. Three truth about living dangerously:
1. I was created (as were you) to live on the edge. (Yes, my immediate thoughts led me to Aerosmith's hit 90's song, "Living on the Edge.")

2. Following Jesus ought to be scary at times.
We see this in 1 Peter 4:12.

3. If you choose to live dangerously, you will have to give up some things in order to gain some other things.
A clear picture of this comes from Luke 9:23-24.

I have really seen the need in my journey to really begin living dangerously! The benefits just enhance LIFE. By living dangerous I will be open to live a LIFE of adventure, have an INTIMATE fellowship with Jesus, my FAITH will be increased, and I will be able to EXPERIENCE miracles. What an incredible return!

Through this challenge I have committed to praying some dangerous prayers (more on that to come). Will you begin living a dangerous life in your walk?

A Great Group

This evening I had a meeting with all of our leaders in Student Ministry for our church (Seacoast Church @ James Island). 

What an amazing group of people.  I have had great volunteers in the past at other churches we have been a part of but there is just something about this group of people and we haven't even kicked off student ministry yet.

Seriously, the ideas and the commitment from these individuals not only pumps me up and energizes me but is also encourages me.  Tonight, as we sat at Starbucks and began to pray to close out our meeting I was just so overcome with joy, and feel so blessed that God has put us in a great church.  A place where Jesus is the focus and that individuals has the freedom to be unique and be who God has called them to be.  Mistakes, flaws, and craziness and all!  Our team is so unique and so different from one another, but we click!  

I cannot wait 'til our students get to hang out with these people!  Their worlds are going to be rocked!

Been Busy

Have you ever had those seasons that just seem to not slow down?

Well, Cyndi and I seem to be in that season. Between her work schedule, our traveling, friends coming to visit, church, and beginning a brand new student ministry as well as a brand new organization it's crazy!

However, God is blessing! It's times like these that remind me to STOP and quiet myself and know that HE is in control and that in the stillness and in the gentle whisper HE is there!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Sex. God.

I just finished the book Sex God by Rob Bell.  Let me tell you something, Rob Bell is DEEP!

This book was a very good read and opened my eyes to many things on the subject.

Here are a few quotes that I absolutely loved:

• "How you treat the creation reflects how you feel about the Creator."
• "It's easy to take off your clothes and have sex.  People do it all the time.  But opening up your soul to someone, letting them into your spirit and thoughts and fears and future and hopes and dreams... that is being naked."
• "It takes phenomenal fortitude to love your enemy."

Seriously read it, get your thoughts rocked!

Monday Morning Madness

The last two weeks have been a bit busy in the Brown household.

Cyndi and I decided to go to Indiana for vacation and it has been a crazy few weeks.  But normal blogging continues.

Here are just a few random things happening in our life:

• Currently listening to Coldplay. Their album Viva La Vida is amazing!
• Going to look at some housing options today.
• My 14 year old Brother-in-law is spending two weeks with us (anyone want to hang out with him?).
• Filling out an application to start taking classes at Strayer University this week. Classes start in October, taking web design classes so that I can maybe start a side business that will help us support more missionaries.
• I can't believe how much cheaper it is to live in Indiana than in South Carolina!
• Reading a great book by Rob Bell right now.  Sex God.  Got a couple great quotes I will post later this week.
• The Olympics begin next week!  How many gold medals can we rack up this year?  I am really pulling for a couple of Jamaica runners...they are fast!

Okay, enough randomness for this morning!

A Few Words About Bryan

The local newspaper in Fort Wayne, IN had a really good obituary for Bryan today.  You can check it out here.

Read it and if you knew Bryan, leave comments on the guest book for his family!

A Man After God's Heart

I have a great friend named Bryan Smith!  Bryan and I have known each other for a really long time.  I think we first met when I was in 6th grade (he would have been in 4th) and I was really good friends with his sister. 

Bryan has Cystic Fibrosis.  CF is a hereditary disease that affects the mucus glands of the lungs, liver, pancreas, and intestines, causing progressive disability due to multisystem failure.  Bryan has had this all of his life and I fully believe that he never let this disease determine how he would live his life.

Yesterday, Bryan got to go home and be with Jesus.  Bryan had an awesome ministry!  I really think that he shared his faith throughout everything he did, especially while he was in the hospital, he could help but share the hope that he has!

It would be really selfish of me to wish that Bryan was still here to hang out, laugh, share stories, etc. But I'm not going to lie to you I wish he was!  However, I am really jealous of him being able to be in the presence of God!

I've been thinking of the best way to honor Bryan and what could I do to make a difference like he made, I haven't come up with anything yet, but I know something will hit me.  If you have any ideas on a way we can honor Bryan Smith and also help with CF leave your comments...or if you knew Bryan and want to leave your thoughts and feelings go ahead!

Bryan, you are definitely missed already but buddy you deserve to be free!  Party it up man in the presence of Jesus!

Great Movie!

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to hang out with some of the greatest people I know...my wife, my brother Zach, and my friend Randis.  And we spent the afternoon seeing The Dark Knight.

I have very high expectations when it comes to films that have anything to do with comic books, especially BATMAN!  Batman is definitely my favorite superhero of all time and so seeing this movie was an exciting adventure.

I must say GO SEE THIS MOVIE!  and after you have seen it GO SEE IT AGAIN!  This by far is the greatest Batman movie I have ever experienced, and I've seen them all.  Heath Ledger's rendition of The Joker is going to win some awards!  He was so creepy, funny, and just plain evil! If you have anyone that likes superhero movies this is a must see for all ages!

An Uprising

up·ris·ing [uhp-rahy-zing, uhp-rahy-zing] noun:

1. an insurrection or revolt.  2. an act of rising up.

This small yet very powerful word has been on my heart and my mind the last few months, but has been reinforced this past weekend.  

Throughout history the greatest revival's in the world were all began by young people!  All great changes in church have typically started with young people who were unafraid to step up and say, "HEY! Let's be more like Jesus and do things like He would have done."  

I think we need an uprising of young people that will step up in our world today and say let's love people where they are and show them Jesus.  I also think older people need to support this and begin training the younger generations on what authenticity means and put their personal feelings and preferences aside for the sake of reaching more people.  

Perry Noble posted a blog the other day that stated that 50,000 people die a day without knowing Jesus (You can read that blog here).  This should bother us and realize our need for an uprising in our world today!  I was told a great story this weekend in which I was challenged with this thought: if you have something that someone else needs and you don't give it to them...are you being more like Jesus or more like yourself?  This goes to say that if you have a relationship with Jesus and you don't share Him with someone else, that's pretty selfish!  

LORD, lead me to people!  Let me start an UPRISING for YOU!

Off to Camp

One of the aspects that I love about summer is going to camp!

As a teenager my life was deeply impacted and my walk with Jesus was challenged at Circle-C (now Youthfront West) camp right outside of Kansas City, KS.

So today I am off to camp with our students, although it is not Youthfront West it is still going to be great! What an amazing opportunity to show students that as a disciple of Jesus we have a lot of fun and that are relationship with Christ is of the utmost importance...Elevation here we come!

The Weekend Update

Here's what went on this weekend:

Friday, 4th of July

• Cyndi's parents arrived
• We celebrated Courtney Moschella's birthday (I promised I wouldn't tell the world that she is 31) at O'Charley's
• Cyndi, Courtney, Mark & I went to the Dave Matthews Band concert at The Joe (our local baseball stadium)...A TON OF PEOPLE WERE THERE!  The line to get in 2hours before was still insane, we missed a lot of the opening act.

Saturday

• Drove over to Seacoast's Long Point Rd. campus in Mt. Pleasant to show the in-laws.
• Went to Old Navy and then Big Dave and I went a cigar shop while the girls went to Bath and Body Works.
• Sat in traffic heading out to the beach
• Took a walk on the beach at Sullivan's Island
• Walked around Fort Moultrie
• Grilled out: I made Steak & Shrimp Kabobs
• Watched The Bucket List~GREAT MOVIE!

Sunday

Sunday we drove to church in the morning and it was quite different.  Our drummer wasn't there so the worship was more a stripped down acoustic version (we even had a ukulele played).  And then surprise: my good friend Joey Svendsen, Campus Pastor of Seacoast Church James Island, brought a great message on the grace of Jesus (I'll post more on the message later)!

All in all, what an amazing holiday weekend!  Not only did we celebrate our country's freedom and independence, but we celebrated the best freedom and independence and that is through Jesus!

Big Day Ahead

Here we are half way through 2008 and I cannot believe where this year has gone so far! 

I love July.  As a kid it was a time where summer was really kicking off.  We were in full swing of Indiana's summer baseball season, our pool was just the right temperature, and the only worry of the day was do I have to get up at 11am or 2pm.  

Even as an adult, I've seemed to really grow fond of this particular month.  Maybe its because we remember that our country is so free and that in turn reminds me of my freedom I have in Christ. Maybe it is because that in this month (four years ago) I told my wife, "I love you," for the very first time and she knew at that moment that she was stuck with me forever.  I'm not sure what it is about this month but July seems to be a month of remembrance but also a ton of fun!

When I started dating Cyndi, she really got me hooked on Dave Matthews and his band.  And every summer she would go to one of his concerts and tell me how awesome it was, etc.  Well, tomorrow I get to experience one first hand!  I am ecstatic not only to be at a concert (which I would spend thousands of dollars, if I could, to go to a lot of concerts) but to be with the girl of my dreams beside me!   

What a great life!

Where Ya Been?

Well, I know it's been awhile and the question has arose.  Where have you been?

Simple...taking a break.  Cyndi and I took a quick trip up to Gatlinburg, TN this past week.  Why in the world would we do that?  Well, besides the fact that I love going to the Mountains!  I really seem to connect deeper with God when I am in the mountains, but that wasn't the main reason.  

I have family from Tennessee (specifically Dayton) and mostly from Indiana and so Gatlinburg is a bit of a central, half way, point for all of us to meet.  And so my parents, my brother and sister, my favorite cousins, my aunt, my cousins' cousin, and Cyndi and I had a mini family reunion.  

It was an incredible time!  We laughed a lot, stayed up way to late, and ate way too much!  But it was well needed.  I love my family and I just love the fact that they seem to like my bride way more than me :)

So that's where we have been and why its been awhile.  SNAP BACK TO REALITY!

Camp 08 Highlight...Jr. High Week

Okay, here is the highlight video for Camp Edisto's 2008 Jr. High Camp.  Be sure to check out YouTube later on for the alternative ending version :)

Arrrrrrrrrre Yoooooooooooouuuu Rrrrrrrrrrrreaaaadyyy?

I've always been told, the longer you wait the better patience you develop.  Or anticipation makes the heart grow fonder...

Well, ladies and gentlemen, boys & girls...children of all ages!  It's Finished!  That's right the Jr. High week camp video is complete and in the process of being uploaded to YouTube.  However, just so you can sweat a little longer, I will post the video up here THIS EVENING!  

And just so you know, an alternative "special guest appearance" ending will be posted later on this next week.  So be on the look out for a good friend of mine and yours from Branchville...

My Heart

Recently, I have had to have some very challenging conversations with some awesome individuals.

And after these conversations, I've come to realize how awesome people are.  Seriously, God has some amazing children that He loves with everything He created!

I've also realized that we (as Believers) have got to do something about reaching this generation.  NO MATTER WHAT IT TAKES, we've got to reach this generation.  They are hurting, confused and even scared!

God has great plans and wants each person to fulfill their potential.

Anyway, just a few thoughts for this evening.

Kicked Off with This

Here is the video that we kicked off Jr. High Week with.

Highlight Video Update

Hey there campers,

I wanted to give you an update about the highlight video from camp...the plan is to have it completed and posted by the end of the week.  I'm working as fast as I can to go through all of the footage and to put together a great highlight of the awesome week we just had.

Keep checking back!

A Brief Look Back at Jr. High Week 2008

Tough Questions

Coming Soon...

What an amazing week at Camp Edisto's Jr. High week of camp!

Coming very soon will be the videos from the week, so be on the look out!

What if the Church was ONE?

What a revolutionary thought... I mean Jesus prayed that we as His followers would be united.

What could we accomplish? Do you think we could terminate world hunger? How about providing relief for orphans?

Wow, what a prayer!

The Countdown Begins

One of my favorite things to do is go to concerts.  Seriously!  I love music and I love the atmosphere at concerts!  My sister went to a Kanye West concert in Detroit a few weeks ago and I really wish I could have been with her.  

But tonight officially marks the countdown until Cyndi and I go and see her favorite band/artist: DAVE MATTHEWS BAND.

They are performing here in Charleston at our baseball stadium, and I cannot wait.  It will be my first DMB concert.  ONE MONTH!  4th of July...Independence Day, is the day we will be jammin'!

Why Did God Create Cockroaches?

I know that God has a purpose and a plan for everything under the sun, but why in the world did He ever create cockroaches?

Seriously, this has been on my mind a lot lately. It probably has a lot to do with every time I walk outside I see the dirty little buggers. And I will be man enough to admit I totally freak out when one is in our apartment. I can remember calling the front office to ask for a bug spray after my first encounter with these disgusting little creatures.

I told the staff member, "Ma'am there was a cockroach scurrying around in my apartment, I need someone to come spray TODAY!"

She just laughed at me and said, "Sir, we do not have cockroaches here in South Carolina."

My response, "Excuse me? I know what a cockroach looks like and this is the biggest one I have ever seen in my life."

"Seriously, we have don't have cockroaches in South Carolina, we have Palmetto Bugs. And there isn't really anything we can do about it." she told me.

"I don't care what you call them, it was a dirty cockroach and it was in my home. I'm from the North lady we don't have cockroaches in our house and I don't want them here."

I HATE these things...really what are their purpose? I can handle spiders, they eat other bugs I don't want in my house...BUT COCKROACHES ARE JUST NASTY!

Be Who God Wants You to Be

Lately I have been encountering some great conversations centered around churches today.

One of my biggest concerns with churches today is that many of them don't really know who they are and who they are reaching. There are thousands of churches across America that are "contemporary," but aren't really reaching this generation. This may come to you as a shocker but I am going to say it anyway. Just because you think you are a contemporary church (meaning you don't necessarily just play hymns with a piano and organ) doesn't mean people want to come to your church.

One factor that is very apparent in churches that are growing spiritually and therefore numerically is the willingness to take risks. The willingness to do whatever it takes, without compromising God's Word, to reach people who don't necessarily have any desire to step foot into a church.

So its time for us as Christians to put away our "churchiness" and develop the mindset that it isn't about me. First and foremost, it's about Jesus. And if it's about Jesus, then it will be about reaching people who don't know Him. And it will involve risk and not necessarily do church how it has always been done in the past, and not necessarily catering to everyone's wants.

Happy Birthday

15 years 7 months ago (I think), my Mom and Dad sat my sister, Mallory, and I down for a little chat. I was probably worried that I've done something, once again, that I wasn't supposed to do. However, the news in which my parents gave us was nothing that I had done.

Mallory and I were told that we would be having a little brother or sister sometime in May of 1993. So at that news I decided I was going to have a brother!! After all God gave me the sister that I wanted 5 years earlier and so it was time for a brother!

May 20, 1993 at 5:29pm my Mom gave birth to Zachary Keith Brown, a healthy baby boy that looked exactly like his brother (I prayed every night specifically for a brother who looked like me...GOD ANSWERS SPECIFIC PRAYERS).
HAPPY 15th BIRTHDAY ZACH!

What's Important?

I am a big fan of knowing whats going on in our world...so therefore I watch the news and I watch it a lot. I try and catch our local news every night but during the day I tend to have CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News on throughout the day just to know whats going on.

As I was watching CNN the other day, a particular story caught my ear and my eye. It had to do with one of my favorite hangouts, Starbucks. The story was talking about how some Christian groups want Christians to boycott Starbucks because of the original Starbucks logo that is currently being cycled back into the stores.

Seriously, do you think boycotting Starbucks is going to lead anyone into the Kingdom? I highly doubt it! Do you think Jesus would have stayed away from Starbucks? Probably not! Why? Because Starbucks draws MILLIONS of people into the stores every day...and last time I checked Jesus wanted to be around people, especially people who were in need of a savior.

Seriously people, let's stop waisting our time with ignorant arguments of which company we are going to boycott because of a logo and be more worried with HOW IN THE WORLD WE ARE GOING TO LOVE AND REACH THEM!!

One Year Down (59 to go)

A year ago yesterday, I joined the married man's club and have absolutely loved & cherished, but mostly enjoyed this past year with my bride, Cyndi!

Why One year down and 59 to go?  I don't know its something that Cyndi keeps saying (I'm guessing she thinks I will only live till I am 85, but I'm hoping to celebrate at least 75 awesome years with her).  We left for Savannah, GA after church on Sunday (by the way we were told that we may have possibly driven through a tornado on the way to church...the weather here is weird).  Cyndi and I spent Sunday night and Monday in Savannah and definitely have a new favorite place to hang out!  Seriously, lots of history, lots of beauty, friendly people, and the weather was gorgeous!

Yesterday was also my Dad's bir

thday...What a great man!  Seriously, I think I have learned the most about Jesus and the love of God from his example!  Dad, Happy Birthday and thank you for being a man that Zach and I can look to everyday and want to be like!  I love you.

On another note, God has been doing some pretty amazing things lately.  I am doing a ton of ministry as well as in the process of doing video production and actually getting paid for it! There is also a book in the process of being written...kinda interesting concept but one that is a gut check (be sure to answer the question on the previous post).

Lastly before I sign off, a friend of mine from college recently had a son who is in need of your prayers tonight.  You can read the story here...but please pray for Corban tonight as well as Matt & Mindy.

~'til this GENERATION knows HIM~

What Do You Hate About Christians?

I have recently embarked on a research journey in which I am throwing this question out there...

What do you hate about Christians (or Christianity)?

So what are you thoughts? I would love to hear anything and everything you have...nothing is off limits. If you are a Christ follower, respond. If you aren't, I am desperately pleading for you to respond...you may respond anonymously or with your name.

So how about it? What do you hate about Christians?

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday...


Randis D. Silas

That's right, today is my best friend, travel mate, groomsman, and brother-in-law's (someday) birthday!!!

Happy Birthday Randis!

grrrr baby grrrr!

Orange Conference-pt. 3

Okay, here are my final notes from the last three general sessions at the Orange Conference last week.

General Session #3 - Donald Miller (author of Blue Like Jazz)

• Don's definition of a good leader is a person who gets to know me in such a way that I want to take part of their vision (or the vision they've been given)
• A good leader gets to know people
• A leader invites people to get involved in the vision (they aren't selfish workaholics of the vision)
• A leader creates ownership of the vision and consistently is involving other people in the process
• Great leaders have lists of people they follow, peers, and people they are leading
• A leader has ambition -an ambition that they are actively trying to pursue (sometimes huge and absurd)
• A leader speaks something into the nothings

General Session #4 - Andy Stanly

• Spiritual Development happens the most in small groups!

General Session #5 - Louie Giglio

• We may not be on the brink to take the lead on culture
• What if we decided to be the church of Jesus?
• Jesus came to build HIS church
• We ought to BE something instead of DO something!
• Be relevant to Jesus, because He is who matters
• Many times we are in a bed of cultural infatuation
• How do we link our lives for Jesus?
• BE MORE PASSIONATE ABOUT JESUS instead of relevance!

What a great time of learning!! Thank you Jesus for such godly, passionate individuals!!

Orange Conference-pt. 2

General Session #2 - Francis Chan

Another passionate message...here are a few highlights and some of my thoughts:

• With a good TEAM we can grow anything
• Shouldn't there be a major difference from someone without the Holy Spirit from the ones who are a temple of the Holy Spirit?
• You can't make someone fall in love with Jesus
• You can't manipulate the commitment that the Bible and what Jesus calls for.
• What type of God stuff do you want to see in your life? In the lives of others?

"If Jesus had a church in my community, mine would be bigger." - Francis Chan

• Because of the commitment that Jesus calls for, many don't follow.
• Gangs are a better picture of the family of Christ is, than the actual church...(think about that one! Somethings wrong with this picture).
• God's agenda was for PEOPLE to declare His praises together...PEOPLE, PEOPLE, PEOPLE.
• Unity in the church will change the world!
• If you call yourself a Christian, SET AN EXAMPLE! In all you do be an example! Are you just playing christian or are you really a DISCIPLE?

The biggest thing that stood out to me was this question: Is God calling you to start a movement? We've got to do something to reach this generation, it's going to start with a movement!

Orange Conference-pt. 1

General Session #1- Reggie Joiner

What an awesome message! Here are a few of my thoughts:

• We are living in a Prodigal Generation that needs rescuing
• Luke 15:1-2 ~ Jesus' purpose was to be with sinners!
• Never let a church be about who you are trying to keep...be about who you are trying to reach!
• We live in a generation that wants to feel better about doing bad stuff.
• If the Pharisees were around today, they would be bloggers.
• There are 2 Different Approaches to Rescuing a Prodigal Generation

Loving Father Approach Older Brother Approach
-preoccupied with whoever is missing -preoccupied with themselves
-operate from a context of forgiveness -operate from a context of shame
-throw parties -throw fits
-confront older brother thinking -criticize loving Father's thinking
-keeps the lights on for as long as it takes -close the door and turns off the lights

If we treated every prodigal in the way the loving Father treated His own son, what would happen?

Why live like the loving Father?
1. Jesus made it a priority!
2. Because You are a model!
3. Because You know a prodigal!

Who are you willing to reach no matter what it takes?

Draft Day

Whooooooooo Hooooooo!

It's draft day and I'm so excited that my Detroit Lions aren't 1st or 2nd pick this year. This is the first time in a long time that I can remember. As a matter of fact they are smack dab in the middle...Oh, my dang!

I just hope they get some great fellas so we can have an even better season this year!

When God Speaks

One thing I am learning almost daily is that when God speaks...YOU BETTER LISTEN!

God has speaking a lot lately, especially in my life.

Sometimes I just have to laugh because what you know as God speaking to you, others view it as Satan attacking. Or because you step out in faith to follow what God has told you to do, people see it as you not being a mature Christian.

Am I that much less of a Christian because I feel as though I need to make what God is telling me priority in my life?

Needless to say, I don't always make the popular decision and sometimes my decisions can hurt others, but that isn't my intention. Just know I my intentions are just to passionately pursue God with all of my heart, soul, body and strength.

One thing I've been learning this past week through our series we are going through at church and through my small group is that every major decision that Jesus went through, not only did you take a leap of faith but he passionately pursued those decisions by first basing them in prayer.

One commitment I have made (even when I was younger) was that I would not make any major decision without first praying about it. Jesus went away often to pray, and we see this taking place before some major events in His life...so why shouldn't I do the same?

Video of the Month

A Thought for Today

A friend of mine came to visit not to long ago and on his way out, he left a series of notes. I'm not sure if he stole them from someone else or if he came up with them himself, but I thought I would share them with you today.

The Past...
Has made you! For the good or the bad. You are better today then yesterday because you are bing conformed to His image.

Today...
Be encouraged that God is in control. You are His #1 choice. Do something amazing for Him.

Future...
God has amazing plans. The dreams of what might or could be, should inspire you to be great today!

BE ENCOURAGED!

Happy Birthday

25 years ago a single, 19 year old woman was giving birth to a healthy baby boy at Parkview Memorial Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. You see this single mommy is giving life a chance. She could have easily ended the pregnancy early on, or even decided to put the child up for adoption...but her choice was to keep him and raise him.

Little did she know that this baby boy would grow up and have a second birth. And that second birth, much like his first, would radically impact his friends, his family, his world, and most of all his life.

You see, 25 years ago I was that baby boy and just 13 years ago this month I experienced a second birth when I surrendered my life to follow Jesus.

What a journey it has been, but not even close to being complete! What more does God have in store? I CAN'T WAIT TO FIND OUT!!!

Birthday Wishes

Well my birthday is just a few hours away and I've been getting the question a lot lately, "Do you feel 25?"

How exactly does 25 feel? Seriously, do numbers actually have feelings?

But I have also been asked, "So what would you like for your birthday?" So here is my top ten list:

10. $$ Money is always nice
9. A skiing boat (I miss being so close to my Grandpa and his toys)
8. Hang out with all of my friends (from all over the world)
7. Lions tickets (it doesn't matter which game as long as its at Ford Field)
6. Chicago Cubs tickets at Wrigley Field
5. A new iPod
4. Catch a few concerts-not really sure who, I just love music
3. Go to Disney World
2. Spend a weekend with my Parents
1. Spend an entire week with just Cyndi & Monicea

A Few Pics from Jamaica -pt3

Andre & I

Monicea

A Few Pics From Jamaica pt. 2

880 gallon water tank

Dwight cleaning out the water tank...from the inside

A Few Pics From Jamaica

John on a riding lawn mower in Jamaica...that's
right the day of the machette is over.

John & Ritz

Here I am passing out things to the "locals"
also known as Shanda, the Canadian-Jamaican

Jamaica Journey - The Last Few Days

So, after leaving Mandeville, John and I went back to Whitehouse. But not before one last stop...the best Chinese restaurant in Jamaica.

Our last day on the south coast we spent some time at My Father's House. We spent time with many of the kids there and I was so blessed! Jim & Penie Koch, have a great calling to those kids and absolutely blessed us by having us over for dinner and allowing us to spend time with the children.

Saturday morning arrives and I receive a call a little before 7am. This is what took place.
Me: Hello
Caller: Good morning JJ, this is Angie (Angie is Monicea's-the little girl we are adopting-grandma)
Me: Hello Angie!
Angie: JJ, it's here. The birth certificate is here in my hands.
Me: What? It is? That's great! I will be there this morning to get it.

As Cyndi and I have been seeking to adopt Monicea we have been told one of the very first steps is obtaining here birth certificate. So last summer I sent for it. NOTHING. As soon as we reached Jamaica, I asked Angie if she could go to Savanna-La-Mar and get the birth certificate for me. So she went on Wed. She was told that it would be over 5 weeks. It was 2 DAYS!!!
Here it is:

After saying goodbye to Monicea and her family, as well as Randy (our sponsored kid) and a few other friends in the area, John and I headed to Montego Bay. On our way to MoBay we stopped off at a very new ministry. Westhaven Children's home. This place totally broke my heart and as we were walking around the facilities I fought back tears. This children's home is for mentally and physically impaired children of Jamaica.

We walked into this one unit where many of the children were in wheel chairs, and this little girl rolled over to me as started to play tag, and then she just wanted to hold my hand. After a few minutes, a young boy rolled over to me just to hold my hand. I realized then that they probably don't see many people like me and probably don't get much love.

After leaving the tears began to roll, both for John and I. This by far is one of the most amazing experiences I have had in Jamaica.

After reaching MoBay it was time to rest, or so we thought...after negotiating our hotel room we spent some time just resting. But then we sought out our friend Dwayne (Dwight's twin brother). We found him and took him to dinner.

All in all this trip was absolutely amazing! I will post later this week about some of the things God said to me while here.

Back in the Good Ol' USofA

That's right folks, I have reached the States.

What an amazing trip! So much has happened in the last few days, and I promise I will fill in all the details. Things like what we did the last few days while in Jamaica, and my thoughts on missions and what God has taught me on this trip.

But as of now I am just trying to get back home (I'm currently stuck in Miami - where I have been since 4:30pm).

More to come...

Jamaica Journey - Thursday

What a day!!!

Today's goal...ENCOURAGE, UPLIFT, & do whatever we could to help Pastor Dwight Pinnock, in anyway possible. So what exactly did this mean? Well, we began the day by heading to a home that used to house a Children's Home ministry (this place is for sale and would be a great potential to house teams). We specifically went to pick up a water storage container that would hold up to 880 gallons of water for Generations Church. So we picked that up and headed back to the house.

Next up on our day...GOLF! That's right we headed towards the golf course here in Mandeville to spend some time in fellowship and a friendly game of golf. We get to the course and find out that the price to play is well over $50USD so we choose not to play.

Next on our list of things to do...pass out fliers for an upcoming festival. What an experience! This was something that was way out of my comfort zone. Seriously, I walked up and down the streets of Mandeville passing out fliers to people and it was AMAZING!! I met some very awesome people and and am thankful God gave me the opportunity. By the way, did I mention Toby Mac will be at this festival?

So after passing out fliers we came back to the house were Shanda was teaching reading classes. Later in the evening we headed to a movie theater. We saw the movie Vantage Point and it was awesome to be in the movie theater here in Jamaica. This was a neat experience...At first before the movie even began, we all stood up as the Jamaican National Anthem. And then right in the middle of the movie, their was an intermission. Now I remember seeing this movie in the States and there was no intermission.

Well we head back to Whitehouse tomorrow. I'm off to bed now!

Jamaica Journey - day 3

This evening as we fellowship with our friends here in Mandeville, much has been running through my mind.

I absolutely love the ministry that Dwight & Shanda has with Generations Church…their heart and passion to make fully devoted followers of Jesus is not only encouraging, but energy pumping as well.

Then to sit and hear Steve’s passion for the skater’s of this country is just awesome! Steve is in the process of bringing Jamaica’s very first skate park to Mandeville. This isn’t just to have a skate park so the kids can skate on it, but it is truly a ministry building opportunity… a way, a tool, just to begin to build relationships.

This evening John and I spent some time in a Life group with 11 teenagers from the church and there were a couple of observations that I had:
• Teenagers, no matter what country you are from, just love to have fun
• Teenagers have some awesome questions!
• It’s okay to question your faith…its what helps make it stronger.
• A good question was brought up tonight in the group…Why do men have nipples?
• Teenagers are NOT unintelligible lower class human beings, their passion, their convictions, and their desire to grow in their faith is many times more real than adults.

One thing I have been learning on this trip is that in ministry we need to get out of the way and let God do His thing. It’s all about Him anyway, and He doesn’t really need us, so why in the world can’t we as Christians work together? Why do many Christians and Missionaries feel as though if a certain view of ministry or happening doesn’t benefit me or my ministry, then I shouldn’t be a part of it? This really drives me nuts…God has made all of us so unique, and as Christians we should rejoice in the fact that we aren’t going to always agree on everything but the constant should always be JESUS! God’s Word always holds true!

Anyway these are just a few of my thoughts this evening.

Until tomorrow.

Jamaica Journey- Mandeville

I'm sitting here in Mandeville with great missionary friends of ours, Dwight & Shanda Pinnock. They are two of the coolest people I've ever met. Their heart and their passion for this country is unbelievable! Their deepest desire is to see Jamaicans totally sold out for Jesus...fully devoted followers, and so it has been cool to be a part of their ministry down here.

Just wanted to send a quick update that we are in Mandeville, and will actually be broadcasting live this evening via yahoo live...here is the address: live.yahoo.com/jeremiahjbrown. I'm not too sure as to what time we will be broadcasting but hopefully we will be getting an exclusive interview (with your questions) from Dwight & Shanda.

More later!

Jamaica Journey -days 1&2

We are here! Here is actually in Whitehouse, Westmoreland. But we have arrived safe and sound and have been having a great time.

As soon as we reached the airport I flew through immigration and customs, which NEVER happens...they even opened up a brand new line when I got into the immigration center. Leaving the airport is always fun. We were bombarded with taxi drivers...but we got our rental car and having been laughing ever since! It's a Dodge Stratus...and get this, the car is obviously from the States, but the steering wheel is on the left hand side (it should be on the right here in Jamaica).

So far we have spent time with a few kids. Last night was really cool, John and I spent some time with Tommy & Trisha Koch (their parents are the director's of KBM's My Father's House- A Children's home here in Whitehouse).

Tomorrow we are planning to go up to Mandeville, and spend time with Dwight & Shanda-missionaries there.

More to soon come.

Journey to Jamaica - Miami

Okay this may be the last chance I will have communications until we reach Mandeville (probably mid-week).

But I'm sitting on our plane here in Miami, clear skies, the plane is full...lots of Spring Breakers. The excitement and anticipation keeps building. I am most excited about getting away from the norm of life and spending a lot of time with God. I've got a really cool study that I will be doing while I am here. I will fill you all in on that later!

Thank you all for your prayers and be on the lookout for pictures and more!

-Hebrews 13:16 reminds us to "Don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. Because these are the sacrifices that please God."

Know I am praying for you!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Jamaica Journey...In Orlando

I've made it to the airport here in Orlando and thought I would share some interesting things that have happened on my trip so far...

• I could barely sleep...but I did wake up at 3:15am and was out the door by 4am.
• The roads are really boring this early in the morning...but its a perfect time to jam!
• It's nice having my own personal valet parker... thanks to Big Dave, my father-in-law, I got a week's worth of free parking, and they park my car and bring me to the terminal!
• People are really grouchy at 5am...enough said.
• I met a huge group of surfers on their way to Costa Rica...one of them that I talked to was a Christian and couldn't wait to share their faith through their passion of surfing.
• American Airlines terminal here at MCO is kinda scary...I think their doing some remodeling, but if they aren't then they should!
• I can't believe I am so awake...seriously I may have only slept for an hour and a half.
• I love that MCO has FREE wireless Internet, off to Miami next and I highly doubt they will.

I will be sure to post in Miami. However, after that it may not be until the middle of the week when we reach Mandeville. Please keep me in your prayers, and specifically that God would bring along the people He would like me to connect with on this trip. My prayer is, "God USE me. You don't need me but please use me in a way that brings You glory!"

As we say in Jamaica, "Soon Come!"

A Few Thoughts

Well, here I am just a few hours before I need to leave for the airport (4.5 hours to be exact) and I have a few thoughts running through my mind...

• I am so excited!
• I already miss Cyndi way too much!
• I can't wait to see how big our baby, Monicea, is and get to spend time with her.
• Just finished watching the Final Four.
• Whoo hoo, UCLA lost!
• I am really suprised that North Carolina lost (sorry Matt) but not too disappointed it was to Kansas.
• I just drank about a gallon of sweet tea.
• I miss Cyndi
• 14 hours from now I will be in Jamaica with my good friend, John Engler.
• I can't SLEEP!
• I am disappointed I am going to miss the next two weeks at church...the new series is going to ROCK! I guess I will podcast it in Jamaica.
• I really miss my wife! Pray for her and for me.

Well, I'm going to go and try to do something. Goodnight!

Pretty Close to Heaven

Well, I am down here in Florida as I await my departure to Jamaica in a few days. Since I came to Florida, I figured my brother-in-law, Daniel, and I should drive down to Orlando for the day to visit one of the most breath taking sites... The Mall at Millenia. It is by far the best mall I have ever been too. It even had Valet parking! However, the highlight of the mall was this...

That's right! An Apple store! We walked in and I didn't want to leave. I did spend some time shopping for a gift for Cyndi while I was here. I can't wait until we get one in Charleston!

BIG NEWS!

Well, today is the day that we unveil some big news. Matter of fact, it's life changing, exciting and yet scary news.

What in the world is the news? Well, we wanted to wait until after we spoke with our families before we announced it to the world...so here we are announcing that Cyndi and I are expecting a baby in our lives! Our due date is mid-December. I'm probably a lot more excited than Cyndi, but we have decided on a few names. If it is a boy he will be Mikiah Jacob, if it is a girl she will be Mylee Renee.

I can't wait!

Oh the other big news I need to tell you is...April fools!

One Prayer

I am really excited about this awesome opportunity being called, "One Prayer."
What in the world is "One Prayer?" "One Prayer" is a partnership of hundreds (and hopefully thousands) of other churches to do a series together called "One Prayer." The premise of the series is: "If God would answer 'one prayer' for the church at large, what would you pray?"

I am really excited about this revolutionary event and am glad to know that several Pastor's realize that the church isn't about them...and we need to move out of our comfort zone's and do something that has never been done before!

Interested in having your church be a part of this? Click here.

My 'one prayer' would be...Make Us See Like You See.

So what would your 'one prayer' for the church be?

I've Gone Mobile

Well I have decided that since I will be doing some traveling in the next couple of weeks that it would be a good idea to go mobile so that I can keep you updated when I'm not near my computer.

Just a few more days until we are in Jamaica. Pray for us as we will be setting up a few things. Especially pray for Cyndi as I will be away from her for almost two weeks. Last quick request- my father-in-law, Big Dave is currently in Jamaica for business and my parents are in Vegas for pleasure. Pray for safe travels.

Weekend Highlights

What a weekend, here are some highlights from this past weekend...

• Had a great time cooking for a few of our friends Friday night!
• Cyndi and I finally got to meet Jenna, Miranda's sister...and yes, I think she looks a bit like Natalie Portman.
• Got Dave Matthews Tickets for my bride on Sat. She is obsessed with Dave and I was excited that he is coming to Charleston and would get to experience one of his concerts with her.
• Spent almost all day in Orangeburg, SC on Sat. -it SUCKED!
• We had to go to Orangeburg to get Cyndi's dress for a wedding she is in...the dress shop (which will remain unnamed) employee's had bad customer service!
  
• I hate poor customer service!
• Orangeburg has a mall...not a very big one, but it's a mall and it's call Prince of Orange Mall-what's up with that?
• Sunday ROCKED!
• The church we've been going to and have been getting involved at is amazing! The worship was INCREDIBLE and then the message blew my socks off!
  
• One thing I learned this weekend was this: Do what God has called you to do, no regrets, no if's and's or but's about it. Do what you know He has called you to do, and if it seems as though He closes a door, it may be because He just wants you to get up on the roof. See Luke 5: 17-26 to see what I mean.
• WHAT A WEEKEND, and this week will just be so much better!!
  

Preparing for a trip

As I sit here preparing for my trip to Jamaica, I feel like I have so much to do and it sucks!

I honestly hate preparing for a trip (at least the boring stuff). Like packing! I hate to pack because I tend to over-pack and I feel stupid because it would have been less of a hassle had I not brought so much. And packing for Jamaica every bit of space is needed!

However as much as I hate to pack it is a necessary part of preparation. Preparation is sometimes not fun, nor easy, but always necessary. As I have been packing I have been constantly reminded that as a Disciple of Jesus I have been told to prepare for a trip. I am reminded that we are to be constantly preparing ourselves for Heaven. I mean Jesus has been preparing for us (John 14:2), so shouldn't we prepare for Him?

What left do you have to do that would help in your preparation for that day we see Jesus?

My Bible Journey

Acts continues...

• Acts 5:1, Ananias...That's a cool name.
• Acts 5:3-4, Interesting that Ananias & Sapphira chose to make themselves look good and lie about their gift. Why lie? God loves a cheerful giver! And did they actually think Peter was stupid or something...here they are bringing 50g's for a piece of property that everyone knows is worth 200.
• Acts 5:5-11, WOW!! Both Ananias & Sapphira drop dead in their tracks! All because of their lies. They chose to make themselves look better instead of giving what they could & had.
• Acts 5:12-16, God was using His people to do some awesome things. All the Believers were meeting together regularly...they had a church service! When you are following God's will and doing what He has called you to do...when it's all about Jesus...your ministry will be blessed and lives will change!
• Acts 5:17-23, Tough times and opposition will always happen when God's work is being done. But God will always take care.
• Acts 5:26-42, You can't shut the Gospel up! ~Even when there is pain, persevere!
• Acts 6:1, When growth occurs people get very uncomfortable, and sometimes even disgruntle.
• Acts 6:2, Focus should be very clear!

Happy Birthday!

Today, was a good friend of Cyndi and mine, Cameron Sabin's birthday! He became a teenager today it was really cool to hang out with him.

Okay, so we are probably better friends with his parents, Ryan and Twila, but it was great getting to hang out with all of them tonight for Cameron's really special day! It was also awesome to sit and watch some basketball with someone who is very passionate about sports. I would say Cameron is almost as passionate as Cyndi is...close but not quite.

Cameron, know that Cyndi and I are praying for you and cannot wait to see the great things God has planned for you in the coming years! Happy Birthday!

My Bible Journey

My Journey through the Book of Acts

• Acts 1:9-11, Stop staring into space and reach people who don't know Jesus
• Acts 2, Some pretty freaky stuffed was going on. I like freaky stuff!
• Acts 2:15, 9am is way too early to be drinking...how's 10? People sometimes mistake passion for drunkenness.
• Acts 2:37-38, Some huge heart changes were taken place. Peter laid out loud and clear the way to be saved. REPENT of our sins and TURN to God! Then show the world through your actions.
• Acts 2:40, Peter was a Baptist Preacher.
• Acts 2:41, One day I would love for God to use me like He did with Peter and see at least 3,000 people come to know Him. If not me, I would love to be in a room where at least 3,000 people come to know Jesus...WHAT A PARTY!!
• Acts 3, I love that Peter made the most of every opportunity to talk about Jesus.
• Acts 4:1-2, It makes me laugh that the religious leaders and the "pastors" of that time were ticked off about what Peter and John were preaching, although it was previously prophecied. Many times pastors forget that its about Jesus and not their agenda.
• Acts 4:4, Church growth-want your church to grow like it did in this passage? Make it about Jesus not about you!
• Acts 4:8-12, I love that Peter & John were in troubel and yet they stayed strong and even witnessed to the officials.
• Acts 4:13, It is awesome that God used people like Peter & John, plain ordinary people who were willing to give up everything and follow Jesus! It is awesome to see that they were recognized by the crowd they hung out with...Jesus. They were known as people who hung out with Jesus. How cool is that? Could they actually say, "Jesus is my homeboy?"
• Acts 4:32, Unity! They shared everything they had (probably didn't have siblings -joking)! Really makes me think, "Can't we all just get along?"