President Elect Obama - Now What?

What do we do now? Will he stay the moderate democrat he portrayed during the campaign or revert back to the extreme liberal of the his past. I don't know, only time will tell. I am truly sad, today because freedom and capitalism is going to take a huge hit in the next four years.

The only hope I have is that God is still in control. This win does not surprise him, like Paul says in Romans 13:1, "Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God."

I Told You So: Splenda

I am not often right but when I am watch out. For years people have been telling me that pink sweeteners (which I love) like Sweet n Low cause cancer and that Diet Coke (which is my crack) is bad because of the sweetener they use. These same people praise Splenda as a better alternative. I told them to just wait because someone would come out with a study eventually that proved Splenda to be harmful and it happened.
A new Duke University study finds that the artificial sweetener Splenda contributes to obesity, destroys beneficial intestinal bacteria and may interfere with absorption of prescription drugs.
- Consumer Affairs (click for entire article)

I am sure people will fire back with other studies and the debate will go on for a long time, but for now I told you so.

Been Awhile

So it has been a while since I posted anything here. I know that you probably don't want to here it, but I have been really busy. I went back to school to finish my master's degree. I forgot how much work it is and I am only taking two classes. We also found out that we are going to have another child in April. I can't wait for that, I don't know if I want it to be a boy or a girl, I guess that is why God picks the gender for us. Anyway, I hope to be posting more often, when I have something to say here are some quick thoughts on what I wanted to post in the last month but never did.

1. I love Sarah Palin - I love that John Mccain picked here as his running mate.

2. Stuff about Fantasy Football - That will probably be discussed on my sports blog.

3. I can't believe that the Media is giving Barack Obama a free pass and sticking to Mccain/Palin.

4. I followed Lost at ComicCon a lot this year and can't wait for the new season, I have been listening several lost podcast to keep up on the lastest news.

5. I am enjoying the new show Fringe by Lost creator J.J. Abrams.

I know there is more, but I can't think of it, anyway I have lot to say and now to time to write it down, but I hope to be doing more blogging in the future. I know, I hate when people say that too.

Worlds Best Sports Blog

I started a new blog with my buddy Lucus called the Worlds Best Sports Blog. Of course this is tongue in cheek. We love the Office and we always laugh at how Michael bought himself the Worlds Best Boss mug at Spencers, so the name is in that same vain. Check it out if you like sports.

www.worldsbestsportsblog.blogspot.com

Brett Favre - Stay Home!

I want to start by saying I love Brett Favre. Not only is a great quarterback, but he is a great person. I really, really like him, however I don't think he should come back to the NFL or at least to Green Bay. Green Bay is trying to move on but for the last couple of years they have been on this yo-yo of "if or if not" Brett is retiring. Finally he announced his retirement this year and the team started to move on. Aaron Rodgers was named as the starting QB and he has spent time working with his team getting used to be THE GUY. Now it seems that all that work might have been for nothing.

As good as Favre is, I think that he will set the team back by returning. The road to the Superbowl takes years. It takes years of work, years of good picks, and a little luck. I think that if Green Bay takes Favre back then they are short sighted, how many years will he be around maybe one or two more. He has avoided injury for so long, but how much longer can he hold out. If Green Bay is going to think long term and try to win a super bowl then they need to stick with a more long term QB (aka Aaron Rodgers).

If I was Favre I would stay home. If he has to come back then I would go to hurting team that needs a quarterback. He could stick around for a couple years and then turn it over to a younger guy. If I was Rodgers I would really assert myself as the leader, but if Green Bay takes Favre back then I would look to leave and go somewhere else.

I am so tired of guys holding on to glory. I hated when MJ came back to the Wizards. Just stay away and go out on top. Brett is on top, but if he comes back he is taking the chance that we will remember him for making a huge mistake, then again it may be the best decision he has ever made, only time will tell.

Back From New Orleans - Mission Trip

My church took a trip to New Orleans to do some construction projects and work with kids. This was my third trip to New Orleans and I was both excited and frustrated by the progress. At first it didn't seem like much was happening in the rebuilding of the city, but after a closer look there was some progress. It is happening slowly but surely. Both of the projects we worked on last year are almost complete, which was a huge encouragement to our group. This year we had a built team which helped finish a house and two teams that worked with kids. Check out the blog post from our mission team and the pictures.

Mission Trip Blog

Mission Trip Pictures and Picture Compilation Videos

Wednesday Mid-day - SBC Convention

Well I am going to the southern seminary luncheon and then I am heading home. I will not be here to vote on the other resolutions but nothing seems real controversial. They are:

7. On CA supreme court decision to allow same-sex marriage.

8. On planned parenthood.

9. In recognition of centennial of royal ambassadors (R. A.)

These will probably all be passed no problem. After I get home I am going to try and process all I have seen and heard and will probably post some thoughts and reactions. Overall great convention in my home state.

( I have to apologize for bad grammar and misspelling I am typing all of this on my pda and am sending it with little or no editing.)

Resolutions 1-6

The first six resolutions were passed.

1. Was on appreciation. This is the standard resolution on appreciation to Indy and all that helped.

2. On celebrating the growing ethnic diversity of the SBC. This is a step the right direction. Anything we can do to increase diversity in our churches is a good thing.

3. In celebrating of Israel's 60th anniversary.

4. On affirming the use of the term Christmas in public life.

5. On political engagement. This one is long and encompasses a lot, too much to get into right now.

6. On regenerate church membership and church member restoration. This one took awhile. It was amended twice. Both times to include stronger language. One of the times to include a section on corporate repentance. I would have voted for it in its original form, but I have a problem with corporate repentance that comes from a resolution and not the peoples hearts by a movement of God. I voted against it only because of the last amendment. But it didn't matter. Of course resolutions like this don't really mean much unless the pastor or church wants to do something about it, so probably not much will happen.

Tuesday Evening at SBC Convention

Again not much to report all of the motions were either referred to committee or called out of order which really frustrates me. They were called out of order because they were addressed to the wrong entity or were not worded right. Anyway I guess you have to know how to play the game.

Not surprising Johnny Hunt was elected president and Bill Henard was elected as first vice-pres. The thing that surprised me was that there wasn't a run-off. I couldn't believe that Dr. Hunt pulled over fifty percent with all the guys running.

The highlight of the evening was getting to go to a screening of Fireproof. It is a movie from the makers of Facing the Giants. They had a free screening tonight. The movie was AWESOME. I was impressed with the story, the acting, and the quality of the film. I am excited that something that is a piece of art that is christian in nature is not cheesy or not a rip off of something that is secular. It is completely original and will be a great help in reaching people for Christ and help built stronger marriages. Go and see it when it comes out in Sept.

Well tomorrow is the last day. I don't think anything exciting will happen, which is good and bad, but if it does I will let you know.

SBC First Vice-presidential Election

The first vice-president is Bill Henard with 73 percent of the vote.

SBC Vice-presidential Election

Official vice-president nominees are:
John Conell
Bill Henard (Incidentally he was my pastor when I lived in Lexington, KY).
Chris Camden

now we vote!

SBC Presidential Election Winner

Johnny Hunt is the new president with 52 percent of the vote.

Motions

Not much to report, most of the motions from this morning were referred to committee and will be reported on next year. One motion was just made about all SBC people working for the SBC agree to a statement including abstaining from alcohol. Another motion I thought that was good was the inclusion of seminary online classes in the SBC church member discount. Currently online classes are not subsidizes by CP dollars but if this is passed then they will. I hope this is not referred to committee but it probably will be.

SBC Presidential Election

Official nomination that was just made:
Frank Cox
Avery Willis
Johnny Hunt
Bill Wagner
Les Pureyer (not sure of spelling)
Wiley Drake

No surprise here, we will probably have a run-off this could take awhile.

1st Time of Motion Introduction

Nothing really that exciting. Some motion on presenting the colors by all branches of military and a motion to take up a love offering for the flood victims in IN. The two controversial motions were about adding that the SBC will not affiliate with churches that have women as a pastor and a motion about no president of the executive committee or of an SBC entity will be president of the convention. Not much surprise here.

Monday Evening - SBC Pastor's Conference

I am back at the luxurious Holiday Inn Express. Today was filled with reuniting with old friends, listening to great messages, and enjoying a very special guest.

In the afternoon session coach Tony Dungy made a guest appearance. I am a huge Colts fan so this was real treat. He only spoke for about ten minutes with an inspirational message to keep doing God's work. It was definitely a highlight for me.

I also enjoyed the message by Hayes Wicker this morning. He spoke about when Jacob wrestled with God and how blessedness comes through brokenness. I also enjoyed Jimmy Draper's message. It seemed like he was trying to say what he would if never got the chance to speak again. He spoke about the need for revival. One thing that stuck out to me was he said we need to put aside the Calvinist vs. Arminianist argument which he says we will never come to agreement (I agree). If we experience true revival then we should be able to put aside differences and focus on more important things.

I also enjoyed James MacDonald's message. It was a very convicting sermon. He spoke on repentance from 2 Cor. 7:8-12. God definitely dealt with me and is still dealing with me about some things. MacDonald is becoming on of my favorite speakers. Lastly, I really liked Kerry Shook's message. He encouraged us to live as if we only has one month to live. He gave the same challenge to his church and I don't know how much later, but they baptized over 800 on one Sunday. They also have as many in small groups as they do in worship attendance about 7000. God is really working in his church.

Overall the day was good. I got some good swag. I also got to eat at P.F. Chang's, mmmm, I would highly recommend the beef with broccoli. I am looking forward to the business and sermons tomorrow.

Monday Morning at SBC Pastor's Conf.

I just finished my breakfast at the great holiday inn express right across from the brand new Colts stadium. Last night was really good. I missed Johnny Hunt but my friends said he really want after us as SB. He challenged us to wake up or we will lose half our churches by 2030. That is scary. I really want to go back and listen later on.

Dr. Simmons had a great message on prayer. He challenged pastors to have a strong personal prayer time. He read from 2 Cor. 4:7 and encouraged us to be jars filled with the timeless power of the treasure that is Jesus.

Finally, Dr. Tom Elliff spoke and told all of us that we needed to filled with God's Spirit. He said often our hearts are like unplowed hard ground (Hosea 10:12). We need to plow up the hard ground of our hearts and be filled with God's Spirit. Overall both of the messages I heard we good and really spoke to me.

Made It To Indy

I made it to Indy. The roads were clear, but there was still a lot of water in the fields and ditches. I am now sitting in the convention hall. I missed Johnny Hunt's sermon. I am now listening to Dr. Daniel Simmons from Albany, GA. More later.

Indiana Flooding - Convention Implications?

I am sending my first post via email, typing on my pda's tiny keypad.

Currently I am crammed in a church van coming back from Indy on I-65 to Evansville via Louisville. We went to Indy to do some block parties for Indy Crossover. This morning we got dumped on, I heard that we got 10 in in a matter of a couple of hours. Indy and the surrounding areas are in a state of emergency. I-65 north was closed and I-70 was also closed with a detour around the flooded area. We must have seen a hundred State Police. I heard that they were shutting down Edinburgh and the towns around. The exit south of Edinburgh was completely under water. I wonder was this will do to the convention. I am traveling back to Indy tomorrow if the roads are open. If you are traveling any road to Indy check the road closure report over at www.in.gov/indot.

Also please pray for these poor people that are flooded tonight. See you at the convention hopefully.

Off to Indy - Last Post or Not?

Well I am off to Indy on Sunday for the SBC Convention. I usually take my laptop and try to blog about the convention while I am there, however my laptop is going into the repair shop today. So I might not be blogging, however I did get a new Palm Centro the other day and I might just send a couple of post in via email. I haven't decided yet, I guess you will have to wait and find out. If I don't post anything then I will see you next week.

Resource Alert!

ClearPlay DVD Player

Have you ever been watching a movie that is pretty decent and then one cuss word ruins the movie for you? Then you need to check out the ClearPlay DVD player!

I had heard about the ClearPlay DVD player last year when they had a big promotion at Target stores. However, I didn't really take much notice. I started to check it out when I got a flyer in the mail at church. I went on the website and looked at the demo that they had and it looked really cool. Unlike Clean Movies or other similar (now illegal) websites which actually alter movie footage. You just select what movie you want to watch, then download a filter from the ClearPlay website and put it on a USB flash drive and then plug it into the DVD player and the player takes care of the rest. The guys over at clear play have cut out sex and nudity, language, and extreme violence by using the this filter system. Instead of changing the physical movie they just skip or mute all the offensive stuff.

I know what you thinking, the movie is really choppy, but it really isn't. Some one at our church had one and I borrowed it for our student lock-in. I was tired of renting G rated movies to show to our students. So I rented Cloverfield, which was PG-13. All of the offensive material was cut out, it was great. Now granted they could not cut out all the violence or you would not have movie, because Cloverfield is about a monster attacking New York City. But we all enjoyed it and I think the students liked it also. The only down side would be it you picked a movie with a lot of language most of your movie would be muted.

ClearPlay offers most of the popular movies and some TV shows. They also will not offer a filter for a movie that they would have to cut so much you could not understand the story line. Overall I really enjoyed this product and am looking to get one for myself and my forthcoming youth room. The DVD players start at under $70, about the price of a mid-range player today. A monthly membership is required to download filters, but at $8 it is a good deal or you can pre-pay for a year for under $80. If you are like me and enjoy movies, but not all the junk then check out the ClearPlay DVD Player.

Several Different Thoughts...

I have some things I wanted to talk about but all them are really short so I thought I would put all of them in one post.

1. Well I was really excited about the Cubs going 9 straight. I thought they could keep it going, but they lost last night to the Padres 2-1. Oh, well it is a lot of pressure to keep a long winning streak and they are still in first place. Go Cubs!

2. I have been keeping up with some of the election coverage and I think if so funny that the Democrats have elected a man that no experience. I would vote for Hilary over Obama any day because at least she has some experience. I know that Hilary supporters are fuming and most will be voting for McCain, which is good news.

3. Season Finale season is all but over, this one was weak because of the writers strike and now we are facing an acting strike, what's that about? Anyway the Office season finale was amazing. I hope Dwight and Angela get back together. The Lost finale was also awesome, but still have a lot of questions, but I guess that is nature of the beast. I also caught a little of the Grey's finale as my wife was watching it (I was trying it ignore it). That show gets on my last nerve. I can't believe they ended with those two girls kissing. I am glad I don't watch that show anymore (or at least I try not to).

4. The most exciting news for the week is that we won our softball game this week. I am on the church team and we play in a city league. Last year we went 0-12, OUCH! But we redeemed ourselves, sort of, by winning our first game 7-4.

5. My family and I are going to Indianapolis, IN for the Southern Baptist Convention. I am excited to hear the speakers and her all of the good and bad resolutions. The kind of resolutions that are bad are ones that have the language of forces repentance. For instance someone calls on all SBC churches to repent of such and such. Those annoy me, isn't repentance supposed to come from the person or church's heart, not a forced resolution. Anyway, I am excited.

Lost List

I made some list to help me organize my thoughts after the season finale of Lost.

On the Island:
Jacob/Christian
Claire
Sawyer
Juliet
Charlotte
Miles
Richard
The Others
John Locke

Off the Island:
Ben
Jack
Kate/Aaron
Sun
Hurley
Penny
Desmond
Whidmore
Sayid
Frank

Notable Deaths:
Log Carriers
Jin
Michael

Whereabouts Unknown:
Daniel
Rose and Bernard

Important Ghost:
Echo
Charlie
Christian
Claire?

Questions I Still Have:
-Why is Jack's Dad the manifestation of Jacob?
-What happened to Claire, is she dead?
-What happened to Daniel?
-What happened to Rose and Bernard?
-How does John get off the Island?
-How does he die?
-Where did the Island go?
-How did Ben go from the Island to the Desert?
-We didn't learn anything new about the Smoke Monster.
-Why did Claire say in Kate's dream not to bring back Aaron?
-What at the bad things that happened after the 6 left and why is it Jack's fault?
-What can Ben and the 6 do to fix the problems by going back?
-Why is Richard Alpert ageless?
-And finally what ancient civilization lived there that made a four toed statue and seemingly created the "move the island" device.

That's all I have, lot of questions.

Lost 4x13 There's No Place Like Home Part 2 Reaction

I first want to say that this episode was amazing. It was the best episode ever. It answered a lot of question and gave us bunch more. I will try just to hit the highlights and hope this doesn't get to long.

In this episode we see the man of Science (Jack) and the man of Faith (John) collide. John wants Jack to stay on the Island and join him. Jack refused once again, so John ask him to lie about the Island. At first Jack doesn't think it is a good idea, but he changes his mind along the way and by the end of the episode he tells everyone to lie. However I don't understand why Jack denies that Locke moved the Island, when clearly it was gone. By the way I hate Locke more than ever, he is a huge wienie in this episode. I mean Ben is basically giving him the Island and the Others and he still asked in his dopey way, "What do I tell them to do?". He is such a goober. Whenever Locke and Ben go down into the Orchid it looks like for a minute that Jack is envious. I don't know if I read that wrong, but I sensed that he wanted to go with them.

I have to say that the Others are amazing at stealth and fighting. They took out Keamy (well almost) and his men. But the best fight of all was Sayid and Keamy. Sayid rocks. The best line of the night was delivered after the fight was over when Kate asked Ben, "We can go...off the island...that's it?" and Ben answers, "That's It". That was priceless, Kate couldn't believe it after all this that Ben would just let them go. Another weird line was when Miles was talking to Charlotte about her "getting back to the Island" and Miles says, "What do I mean?" He is turning into one of my favorite characters. I guess that Charlotte was born on the Island, probably a Dharma baby. Maybe she holds the key to babies being born on the Island, because she tells Daniel she is looking for her birth place.

We learned a lot down in the Orchid station, no thanks to the Dharma video. That was lame that video rewound automatically. But we did finally learn that Ben doesn't care about anyone else but him self when he killed Keamy. I started to think over the last few episodes that he was turning over a new leaf, but no dice. He is as cruel as ever. Cruel, but awesome with that black stick, I want one!

One burning question is my mind is what is going to happen to Daniel, he was in the raft with the log carrying people. They showed him as the Island was moving, but not afterward. Was he close enough to the Island to be taken with it? Also what happened to Rose and Bernard, I didn't see them on the freighter or on Daniel's boat. I assume they are still on the Island.

On the most sad note, I though Saywer was pretty awesome in this episode. He jumped off the helicopter to save everyone and swam back to the Island only to be greeted by Juliet, do I sense a future love connection? But I do wonder what he asked Kate to do for him? I guess we will find though out next season. I was also sad that Jin died. I wish they would have keep him alive, and who knows this is lost, no one really dies so maybe we will see him again. I also wonder what the significance of Christian Shepard was when he appeared to Michael before the boat exploded. Well at least Michael is as rest now.

One thought that I had on Ben vs. Locke as leaders is that Ben might want Locke to be the leader because he knows he is going to mess up and eventually he can get back to the leader. I know that he said the man that moves the Island can never get back, but I wonder if he just said that. We know that Ben is a liar and patient man.

The best moment of the night was the Desmond and Penny reunion. That was amazing. I am so glad that they had a happy ending. But now he has to go into hiding, I assume from Charles Widmore.

is the one trying to kill or silence or keep tabs on the Oceanic 6? The best of the flash forwards was obviously the last scene. When Jack breaks in to the funeral home and Ben shows up. We learn that Locke is the one in the Coffin (I was wrong, I thought is was going to be Walt). We also learned that Locke visited at least Hurley, Kate, and Jack and probably Sun and As far as flash forwards in this episode it was weird that Walt thinks his dad is still alive and Hurley didn't tell him different. I also thought that the Sun vs. Widmore scene was awesome and I think we are going to she a huge corporate showdown in the future. I wonder if WidmoreSayid also to get them to return to the Island. Why? Because "bad things happened" after they left and for some reason it is Jack's fault. It is amazing that Ben at one time said he can't go back to the Island, but now it seems like it is no big deal for him to go back. Jack seems okay with wanting to go back, however he is uneasy with the idea of taking Locke, maybe he knows he will come back as a ghost on the Island. Ben already has Jack, Sayid, and Hurley. But how will he get Kate/Aaron, and Sun? I think Locke is the proverbial loser, he probably caused the bad stuff to happen because he is a bad leader and that is why he ended up dead. I wonder though how he got off the Island? Anyway, great episode. I can't wait until next year.

Church Pirates! Ed Young

I can't believe it. I know a guy going through this right now. I have always hated church pirates. Watch this, because I feel the exact same way. If you want to start a church, great just don't do it right down the road from your church and with your old church people. AND STOP SPIRITUALIZING IT! I hate when people spiritualize church pirating. Watch what Ed Young says:

I Can Tell the Future: Huckabee is McCain's VP

Call it a gift, or don't but wait and see; Mike Huckabee of Arkansas will be McCain's running mate and that is fine by me. I really liked Huckabee and wanted him to be the GOP candidate. I think McCain is doing this to reach out to conservatives, especially in the south. If you remember Huckabee surprised everyone and carried eight states. I definitely think this will help McCain, it sure will make me feel better about voting for him in Nov.

Stop Global Cooling!!!

It seems we now don't have to worry about Global Warming. We need to focus on Global Cooling. That's right scientist now think we are in period of cooling and have been for the last year. So, I am calling on all people to increase your carbon footprint. Yes, you heard me right, go out there and make greenhouse gases, burn your trash, buy a huge diesel SUV, do whatever you can to pollute. If we act now we might just be able to balance this period of cooling out.

Hopefully, you know I am saying all of this tongue in cheek. But come on, I am tired of all this overblown worrying about Global Warming and our carbon footprints. Their still is no proof that Global Warming is a fact. We just had one of the coldest winters ever, and it appears that the Northern Hemisphere has been colder then in years past.

So what are we do, isn't Global Warming just a fact like Evolution is a fact. No, don't fall for the environmentalist propaganda. Now don't get me wrong, of course we should conserve the environment. Anything we can do to not destroy the environment is good. I am fan of recycling and hybrid vehicles (mainly for the better gas mileage). But it all has gone a bit wacky when you have to buy green credits to offset your carbon footprint. I don't believe that we can affect the environment in any major way. I believe that God is sovereign over his creation. I also believe that he knew what kind of technology and industry we would build, so none of this is a surprise. No matter what I don't think we can do anything to control the climate, we are at the mercy of God. So, if you really want to save the environment start praying to the only one (and I don't mean Al Gore) that can do something about it.

Here are some articles to back up what I am saying:
Telegraph Article
National Post Article
Daily Tech Article
Daily Express Article

Cubs Back on Top

With a win tonight against San Diego and a Cardinal lose to the Brewers, the Cubs are back on top of the NL Central Division; for now. The season is very long and there are still a lot of games to play but it gives me hope that we are putting some major runs on the board and it seems that our pitching is getting better and better all the time. Go Cubs!!!

WFX Conference with Rex Miller

I went to the WFX Conference in Indy yesterday. It is a huge conference about church design, building, outfitting, media, etc. I was able to hear author Rex Miller give the key note address. His lecture really interested me. He calls himself a Futurist, whatever that means, but he believes that we are entering a new age of communication and is encouraging the church to get on board or it is in danger of becoming irrelevant. He believes we have come through four major stages in how we communicate: oral, print, broadcast, and now digital. He says that most churches communicate through a broadcast mentality. Which simply means we tell people what we want to them to hear, we try to put on a polished performance, and we communicate in a way where we tell and the person listens. Now I just was introduced to his concept yesterday, but I ordered his book the Millennium Matrix to find our more about it. I might not be getting this 100% correct, but I believe that Miller is definitely on to something.

I have felt for a while that students are very different today, they think different, they do different stuff. I was raised on TV and am still in the broadcast category, these students are digital and function differently. This may explain a lot, in fact this may help me in a major way to become more effective. I am really stoked about getting the book and will let you know what I find out. If you know anything about this let me know your thoughts and opinions.

The last thing I want to tell you is, that Miller offered to dialogue with anyone that wanted to talk at the end of the conference. The guys I was with and I were the only ones that showed up. So we had 1 hour of personal one on one time with him. We were able to talk about his concepts more in depth, especially in regards to youth. It was amazing, I loved talking to him and it probably would have cost a fortune for an hour of his time anywhere else, but I think he did it because he really cares about the state of the church, no one made him do it. Anyway, I will tell you more after I dive into the book.

Korean Baby Sings the Beatles!

I am a huge Beatles fan and when I saw this I thought it was hilarious. Maybe instead of Asian Elvis impersonators we can have Asian Beatles impersonators.

korean baby singing hey jude

RUN KID RUN NEW ALBUM!

I just picked up Run Kid Run's new album "Love at the Core". They are the best Christian band that no one listens to. Their last album was awesome. I just started listening to this one but it sounds like good stuff. They sound somewhat like Hawk Nelson or Relient K, but they are different. They seem to me more complex, deeper is some way. Anyway, check them out here.

I also got Josh Wilson's new album. I have followed this guy for a couple of years. I say him a conference for students at Southern Seminary. I really enjoyed his album Shake the Shadows. It was really funky and sort of bluesy indie album. It was different from any other Christian album. This new album sounds good, but seems more commercial. It doesn't have as much funk so far. I haven't listened to it all yet. I try to judge each album separately. It is definitely worth checking out. Find Josh here.

Internet Discrimination

Recently I passed out a flyer for an event at church. The event was not at our church and directions would have been difficult to explain on the flyer. So, rather brilliantly I thought, directed the students to our church website for directions. I thought to myself, job well done! Until a student came to me yesterday and ask for directions for several of his friends that didn't have the Internet. WHAT! Doesn't have the Internet? My brain couldn't comprehend. I had operated under the assumption that only a few people in the US didn't have the Internet, like 1% or something like that. To my surprise it seems a lot of Americans don't have the Internet. I couldn't find any stats on Internet usage in the US, but I think it is a lot more than I used to think. When I passed out that flyer I committed discrimination by Internet. I assumed all student have the Internet and they don't. I can't really relate to that now. I used to know what that was like because I grew up without the Internet in my home until I was 13 or 14. I guess over the years I have become an Internet snob assuming that everyone is like me. Well, no more I not will make that assumption any longer. I will however continue to support our website and direct students there I will just have some printed directions also.

"Jealous Kind"

I was going through my ipod to try and find something to listen to and thought I would shuffle all the songs by Jars of Clay. I hadn't listened to them in a really long time, after a couple of songs "Jealous Kind" came on which made me pause and think. This song is so good and it reminds me of how much God loves me and how much he hates sin. It is such an insult for us to chose sin over Jesus who loves us so much. Here are the lyrics, also here is the song from last.fm take a listen.

"Jealous Kind" by Jars of Clay
I built another temple to a stranger
I gave away my heart to the rushing wind
I set my course to run right into danger
Sought the company of fools instead of friends

You know I've been unfaithful
Lovers in lines
While you're turning over tables with the rage of a jealous kind
I chose the gallows to the aisle
Thought that love would never find
Hanging ropes will never keep you
And your love of a jealous kind
Love of a jealous kind

Trying to jump away from rock that keeps on spreading
For solace in the shift of the sinking sand
I'd rather feel the pain all too familiar
Than to be broken by a lover I don't understand
'Cause I don't understand

One hundred other lovers, more, one hundred other altars
If I should slow my pace and finally subject me to grace
And love that shames the wise, betrays the heart's deceit and lies
And breaks the back of foolish pride

AT&T Billing Problem, Check your bill!

If you are an AT&T customer make sure to check your bill. It seems that for the past year AT&T has had a billing error on my bill that they and I were unaware of. I signed up last March for a special that included phone, dsl, and dish service for a good price. They gave me the basic Satellite package free for one year if I signed up for two years. It was a very good deal. Well, my first year was up so I expected my bill to go up a little once the dish was added back on, but I was shocked this month when I bill went up almost $80. We immediately called and found out that AT&T had not been charging me for dsl for the past year. Some how in my package I had been getting dsl and dish for free. So they decided to make up for some of the lost money and triple charged me this month (once for next month and two for previous months). I looked back at last months bill and they double charged me. I could not believe it. I asked the customer service rep. if this has been a problem with a lot of customers and he said it has. I suggest that everyone that has AT&T service check you bill. I guess they have the right to back charge me and I will pay the bill, but it just seems wrong to back charge me for four months all because they messed up. A supervisor is supposed to call me and I am going to see what he can do, but I doubt they will drop any of the charges. I will probably end up eating it.

Spring is Here!

Top signs that spring is here:

1. Cubs are playing baseball (and doing not so bad 4-3)

2. It is time to mow the grass (ugh!)

3. It is time to get out and swing the golf clubs. (I played to day and did terrible, but I had fun)

I love spring and am glad winter is over. Even if it means yard work, I still loving getting to be outside. I don't realize how much I miss it until it is January and the novelty of winter has warn off. Enjoy your spring and go Cubs!

CUBS WIN! CUBS WIN!

After a rough start the Chicago Cubs win one game out of there opening series against the Brewers. The brewers are a tough team; the Cubs battle against them last year for the NL Central division title. Today, everything clicked. They were fielding good, they were hitting good, and Dempster pitched a good game. I am glad to him back in the starting rotation and even more glad to see Wood closing. Even though they lost the first two, the baseball season is very long so I am not worried. I think they have a real shot at making a run for the NL playoffs and maybe even the NL Championship. We will have to wait and see. GO CUBS!!!

Should We Use Violent Video Games in Youth Ministry?

Should Christians Use Violent Video Games to Lure Teens to Christ? by Hannah Elliot

This is a very interesting debate. I don't know where I stand on this yet. I have used things like this in the past and actually am considering using Halo3 and Guitar Hero as a station at an upcoming all-nighter. I know both views, one saying we should use whatever we can to reach students. The other side says, "What you win them with is what you win them to." I don't even know if there is a right or wrong answer, I think is comes down to personal choice and of course if your church would approve of it or not. It is not worth losing your job over. What would you do?

How Stupid Are April Fool's Jokes?

Okay, enough with the April fools jokes. From now on, lets just assume what every anyone says on April 1st is false. Yesterday, I watched one of my favorite shows PTI on ESPN; Tony and Michael tried to get people to believe that the NCAA ruled that Kansas and Davidson would replay the last 16 seconds of their game last weekend because a play should have fouled. I believed this for a few seconds, but then found it to be too crazy even for the NCAA. My wife on the other hand, believed it for the full 1 min. and 30 seconds they talked about the story. Here is the video.

I also received an email about Google's new free TiSP (Toilet Internet Service Provider). Now we all know Google is notorious for April fool's jokes and hoaxes (here is a list). I like a joke as good as the next person, but come on, don't you think it is time to end the April Fool's Jokes. They are corny and predictable. Okay, enough, I just had to get that off my chest.

Season 4 Episode 8 "Meet Kevin Johnson" Reaction

This episode did not advance the time line very much and didn't answer a lot of questions. However, it did scratch a very old itch, with what happened to Michael and Walt. I am going to explain this episode with my own observations in the same order as it appeared during the show.

Locke's Compound
The episode started out at Locke's Compound with what seemed like a neighborhood watch meeting complete with Ben, Rousseau, her daughter Alex, Carl, and the other "Losties". Locke brought in Miles (I guess he didn't blow up). Miles says he is here for Ben. Ben says that once they get him they will kill everyone on the island and Ben reveals to everyone that Michael is the spy. Sawyer recounts the obvious sinful past of Michael (I guess they do that to help us make the connection).

On the Boat
An alarm sounds as Sayid and Desmond are awakened. They go to the deck only to find the captain beating the stuffing out of one of the sailors that was trying to escape. Sayid approaches Kevin (Michael) and asks him "Why are you here?" Michael's responds "I am here to die".

Locke's Compound
We go back to Locke's compound where Sawyer confronts Locke and Miles about not telling him about the 3.2 million offer that Miles made to Ben for his loyalty. Locke tells him that he did not think that it was important since Ben couldn't get the money. Miles laughs, obviously he thinks everyone is underestimating Ben. He points out that Ben is now free and that Ben gets what he wants. Which is true. I don't understand it, but Ben does get what he wants. He is a ruthless cold blooded killed that should not be trusted, yet Locke still trust him. Also at the compound, Ben tells Alex, Carl, and Rousseau to go to the "Temple" which appears to be another station. This is the station where Richard and the "others" were going. At this point, I am excited because I think that we are going to see this station tonight. I am sadly mistaken.

On the Boat
We go back to the boat and Sayid confronts Michael and wants to know how he got on the boat.

Flashback
We then go into one long flashback. I kind of enjoyed it for a change, not going back and forth all the time. We find that Michael is very troubled by his past sins (killing Ana-Lucia and Libby). He wants to kill himself. He tries to crash his car and kill himself, he pins a note to Walt on his jacket. We assume this is his first time to commit suicide, but as find out later it is very difficult for former inhabitants of the island to kill themselves so Michael could have tried it before. Further proof that he is haunted, he dreams that Libby brings him a blanket in the hospital.

We find out that Walt is not with him, he is living with Michael's mother. We also find out that Michael and Walt have come back and are not telling anyone what happened. They are using fake names. Walt is not talking to Michael because he told him something (We find out later that Michael confided in Walt about the women he killed). I know that it has been a couple of years since the first season, so they can not show Walt a lot because he has grown up (he looked really old in the episode where Ben shot Locke and Walt appeared to him in a vision). In fact I think they used a different boy for the short time we saw him tonight. I believe that is why they left in the first place, because he was growing up and only a few months time was supposed to have passed. I think that the writers could have woven it in better now that we know about this time travel stuff, couldn't Walt have just grown old very fast as an Island side-effect. Oh, well they chose to phase him out. I am glad that they brought back Michael he was always one of my favorites.

Michael then take the watch that Jin gave him and pawns it for gun and tries to kill himself. Mr. Friendly (Tom) shows up and interrupts him and then kicks Michael's butt. Mr. Friendly then explains that the Island won't let him die. He tells Michael that he can find him in the Penthouse at the Hotel Earle (I don't know if this is important yet). Michael goes home to try to kill himself one more time, but the gun jams twice. He then sees a news report about how Oceanic 815 was found at the bottom of the ocean. He goes to see Friendly.

We discover that Friendly is gay. I could have done without that. I would say more, but I am afraid that he would kick my butt. Friendly tells Michael that the Oceanic 815 crash he saw on the news was staged by Charles Whidmore. Interesting, because we were led to believe that Ben staged that crash. I think we are gearing up for a colossal battle between Benjamin Linus and Charles Whidmore. Friendly tells him that Whidmore doesn't want anyone to find out what happened to the real Oceanic 815 and about the Island. Michael wants proof, so Friendly shows him a picture of empty graves in Thailand and receipts for the plane and freighter rental. This really doesn't prove anything to us, but for Michael it is important. Friendly tells us that a boat is leaving to find the island and Michael's mission is to go on the boat undercover and kill everyone on the boat. Michael is to do this to redeem himself, somehow pay for his past sins.

Michael arrives at the dock and I first notices the name of the boat was scratched out (KAHA-----). I don't know if this is important. Michael gets a package from Friendly before he leaves. Friendly also calls him and tells him to wait a few days and use the package to kill everyone. On a side note, it was interesting that Miles knew that Michael was lying about his name. Miles must have a "sixth sense". Out at sea Frank, the helicopter pilot, confirms a couple of things. He confirms that the boat is in fact owned by Whidmore and that he and Whidmore agreed that the Oceanic 815 in the ocean was staged. Later on the "Boat People" are out on the deck of the boat shooting clay pigeons with automatic weapons. Michael asked if they were on a rescue mission and the guys tell him to go clean something. Michael then goes to blow up the boat only to find that the bomb is a trick that gives a note that says "Not Yet". Very cruel, Ben. He then gets a call from Walt, which turns out to be Ben. Ben tells Michael to give him a list of everyone on the boat then to take out the communications and them to take out the engines.

On the Boat
When we come out of the flash back Sayid asked Michael "So, you mean to tell you are working for Benjamin Linus?" Which is ironic, because Sayid goes to work for Ben later on. Sayid them attacks Michael and takes him to Captain Gault. Sayid tells the captain everything. He tells him that Michael is a traitor and that he was on Oceanic 815 and that he sabotaged the boat. I don't understand why Sayid did this. This seems a little rash for him, you would think that Sayid would want to think out his next move, unless he has a plan.

On the Island
Rousseau, Carl, and Alex are making their way to the "Temple Station". When they stop for a drink, Rousseau and Carl are shot. Alex comes out and yells that she is Ben's daughter. I don't know who is shooting, but I assume it is the "others" who have orders to kill them. So did Ben intentionally lead them to their deaths?

Questions and Next Week
As I mentioned this episode didn't deliver like I thought it would. From last weeks promo I thought the time line would be advanced more, but it did give us some good insight into Michael.
1. What is the temple station (Ben referred to it as a sanctuary, it seems only some know about it)
2. What is going on with the "Losties" on the beach, we did see them this episode.
3. Who killed Rousseau and Carl?
4. Is Ben going to pay Miles?

Well it looks like we have to wait a month for an new episode (Darn you, writers strike). But it seems like a battle is going to happen. And from the promo, I learned that they are counting Aaron as one of the six. You probably knew that, but it surprised me. Oh, well see you next month.

The Greatest Day Ever!

Why Today is the Greatest Day Ever:

1. It is my birthday (28, groan, I feel old).

2. Kentucky is playing in the NCAA Tourney today.

3. Lost is on Tonight!

4. My parents are in town and taking me out for a nice dinner.

5. Amanda got kicked off of American Idol last night. (Okay, so this didn't happen today, but it definitely makes today sweeter.)

Update: Okay, so it wasn't a perfect day because UK lost to Marquette. Oh, well there is always next year.

3 New Links

I added three new links to the sidebar today:

1. Walt Mueller's blog. He is the founder of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding. His blog seems to be a good resource for youth workers and parents.

2. More Than Dodgeball Blog. This is a blog from some of the guys at youthministry.com (Group). It is both informational and comical.

3. Improv Everywhere. This is a really funny site about people doing funny improv things in the public. One video showed 16 people performing a spontaneous musical in the mall about needing a napkin. Definitely check this site out for a laugh.

A New and Dangerous Drug: Salvia

I recently read an article by the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding about a new drug called Salvia. I became very concerned; in the past I have had to help teens that are on over the counter drugs like Triple C. However, this drug is new and dangerous because many people see it as an "herbal" remedy. Actually it is not a new drug. It has been around for a long time, used mainly by Mazatec Indians. It is native to Mexico and is officially called Salvia Divinorum (also called: Magic Mint, Ska Maria, Sally D, and Pastora). It is a plant that can be smoke, chewed, or brewed. Each of these methods delivers a different type of high with varying lengths.

It is becoming more and more common in foreign cities like Amsterdam. It can be bought on the Internet, even on Ebay. It is not nationally illegal yet, but many states are considering a ban. I can only image as the drug become more and more popular that it will be banned nation wide. Many people relate Salvia to Marijuana, but this drugs "high" is much much more intense than pot. It also causes more loss of control that pot. CPYU described that "Users experience visionary trances (bright lights, vivid colors, pronounced shapes), a loss of control of their body, slurred speech, and a sense of being transported to a different place and time. The experience is intense." Dr. Bryan Roth says the high is "as potent as LSD, and essentially, the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogenic drug,"

Among teens this drug is becoming more and more prevalent. Don't be fooled by those that say this is an "herbal" remedy or home medicine. It is dangerous because users lose inhibitions which can cause a number of bad consequences including death. One teens suicide is linked to the drugs use. Parents, talk to your teens about all drugs, but especially about new ones as they are not considered harmful because they are not illegal. Set boundaries and rules regarding drugs and alcohol. CPYU reports, "alcohol and drug use is relatively low among teens whose parents set and enforce strict rules about alcohol and drug abuse." So start a dialogue about this today.

Read the CPYU article in PDF format

CPYU Site

NPR Article

Lost Season 4 Episode 7 "Ji Yeon" Reaction

This episode was okay, it had a lot of fluff in it, but also had some very good answers to some very old questions. I am sure that a whole lot more question about the future are coming. But for now, I am very happy. I will start with the flash-foward

Flash-back/Flash-forward
Tonight we were treated to both a flash forward and flashback at the same time. Sneaky, sneaky Lost writers. They started with Sun being at home getting ready to go out and she starts having pain, she calls the ambulance. This was a flash-forward as we see that she is extremely pregnant. Then we also see Jin trying to buy a giant Panda for what we assume to be his baby. Some of this seems to be time filler, he loses the giant Panda and his mobile phone is run over. He then pays a lot for a replacement Panda that is on hold for another customer. We then see Sun back in the deliver room where she is in pain and is screaming for Jin. Jin finally arrives at his destination, it was the hospital, but we find out that it is actually a flash-back. I was really confused a this point, but apparently the Panda was for a business client and Jin was just making a delivery. He tells the nurse on the way out that he has only been married for two months. Sun has the baby which by the way looked very realistic. It was all a little confusing, but all is cleared up on the final flash-forward when Sun is alone her apartment, when Hurley arrives. He ask "Is anyone else coming?", Sun answers "no". They then take the baby to the cemetery where I assume they are at Jin's grave (It was in Korean). So that was the big twist, Jin dies or so we are led to believe. I have read other places that the date on the tomb stone was 9/24/04 which is the date of the crash. My theory is that it is an old tomb stone erected after the fake crash but before Sun is rescued. So how does Jin die and when? Time will tell. Just to summarize Jin was in a flash-back where nothing really important happened and Sun was in a flash-forward where we learn she is one of the Oceanic Six, she has a healthy baby, and Jin dies at some point.

On the Island
So we find the "Losties" on the Island, bored as usual. Sun takes on the investigative role and starts to question Kate about what happened last episode (if only she had the Internet and a computer she could read my blog). She then goes to confront Daniel. Finally someone is asking direct questions. She asks him if they are going to rescue them. Even though she asks a direct question she does not get a direct answer. Daniel says its not up to him, which is probably true. Sun loses confidence in the "boat people" and wants to leave for Locke's compound. Juliet finds out that they are going to leave and tries to talk Sun out of it, but Sun is not persuaded. Sun and Jin start to take off and Juliet stops them by telling Jin that Sun had an affair. It is surprising to me that four months ago (in Lost time) that Jin couldn't speak any English, but now he seems to understand it very well. I took four years of Spanish in school and I don't remember anything. Anyway, Jin is upset and is consoled on a fishing trip and he forgives Sun, they make up. It is a happy ending and they decide to stay because if Sun does not leave the Island in three weeks she is going to die. I can already see it now, she will not leave until the last minute before she is going to die.

Locke's Compound
They didn't show the compound this week. I am sure they are doing normal compound stuff. Like playing horseshoes, skinning rabbits, and sticking grenades in the hostage's mouths. By the way what happened to Miles, did he blow up yet?

On the Boat
It starts out with Frank (the helicopter pilot) bringing Desmond and Sayid some canned food claiming that they are having problems in the kitchen. The women guarding the door is acting funny, a little crazy maybe. While locked up they get a note warning them not to trust the captain. Who is the captain? Well we finally get to meet him. But just before two very important things happen. One, Frank has taken the Helicopter out on an "errand". The doctor indicates that he has gone to the island, so I wonder how long it will take him to get there. Second, the lady that guarding the door commits suicide by jumping into the ocean will heavy chains on. The crew doesn't hardly seem to notice and while Des and Sayid are freaking out the captain appears and calms them down. I don't see what is so bad about Captain Gault. Everyone seems to be afraid to make him mad. Though I don't see why they kept him a secret so long, it is not like he is some past character or some famous actor. Anyway, Gault takes Des and Sayid and shows them a black box from the fake crash of "Oceanic 815". He tells them that this is Charles Widmore's boat, which causes Des to go "hmmmm". He also tells them that the reason they are looking for Ben is to find out why the crash was staged and where he got all those bodies from. As if Ben had anything to do with the crash, not little ol' Ben, he is as harmless as a flea. The Doc then takes Des and Sayid down stairs to their new quarters where their is a fresh blood splatter on the wall. It seems that the crew members are going insane and committing suicide. Captain Gault thinks it is because they are stuck so close to the island (some one has been sabotaging things like the engines and the communication equipment). The Doc then calls over "Kevin" to clean up the mess. "Kevin" turns out the Micheal. Remember him from a couple of season ago, when he and his son Walt made a deal with Ben and took off in a motor boat. It seems that Michael's freedom had some strings attached. We also assume the Michael is Ben's inside man. So that is the big secret that I called last week. Not really, I read it on a spoiler site.

Questions and Next Episode
One major question is how did Michael get on the boat? And where is Walt? Is he Ben's hostage so Michael will do his bidding? Finally Where are Ben's people? I feel like I am the only one asking this question. What happened to Richard and the "others"? Next week (from the trailer) Michael gets beaten up by Sayid, who wants answers. We go back to the compound where is looked like Locke tells everyone that Michael is Ben's inside man and Sawyer isn't happy. It also seems like the "boat people" are packing some serious heat, does this spell trouble for the "Losties". And they promise that someone will die. Oh no, it will probably be some small character, like that guy with grenade in him mouth or maybe Locke makes up a special batch of Kool-aid for the compound to drink. Next week's episode is called"Meet Kevin Johnson" so it probably safe to assume that it focuses on Michael. Until next week...

Indiana Baptist Evangelism Conference 2008 Columbus, IN

I just got back at midnight last night from the SCBI (State Convention of Baptist in Indiana) Evangelism Conference. They had a great line up this year, which included Ed Stetzer, Bobby Welch, and Johnny Hunt. Because I attend the various conventions and meetings I hear these guys usually at least once a year and I have to say these were the best messages I have heard from these guys. It might also have been the smaller arena. In the big conventions it is hard to feel connected, but in a sanctuary of 400 you feel more connected to the speaker.

Ed Stetzer was definitely my favorite speaker of the convention. He spoke on 2 Cor. 5:16-21. I want to give a full report on his sermon and how God spoke to my heart through his message. I don't have time to expound on it right now, but I will in another post. Bobby Welch was great. He pounded the pulpit and yelled "Pow" a lot. I didn't get a lot of notes from him, but his message was very good. He spoke on Romans 9:1-3.

Johnny Hunt's message was titled "What You Lose When You Leave" Rev. 2:1-7. I have heard this passage preached before, but Hunt explained it better than anyone else I have heard. He even gave a very good explanation of who the elusive Nicolatians were. He explained from his research in Ephesus and from other scholars that they were probably a group of Christians that were using the excuse of Christian liberty to sin. They claimed they could do these things because of "freedom in Christ" Oh, no not the freedom in Christ issue. It was funny because Johnny told us that his most requested sermon was on alcohol. My most read and commented on blog was about alcohol(post 1, post 2), what is with this issue that we like to discuss it so much. Anyway, the main point of the sermon was to encourage us to return to ministry that God first called us too. For instance in my life God called me to make a difference in the lives of students and train them to reach their friends. Often what happens is we get caught up in the business of church work and forget our first calling or "first love". He then gave eight things that we lose when we leave our "first love". Of course they are alliterated: Passion, Power, Purpose, Priority, Purity, Prudence, Perspective, and Perception. It was a very good message and caused me to think about my own ministry.

Over all the conference was great. It is good for me to go to these things from time to time. I don't know about you, but they really help me to get re-fired up. I really do get caught up in the "work" and forget about the reason for the "work". I was reminded that the most important thing we can do in ministry is reach people and train others to reach people.

If you are interested in hearing these message you are in luck. They did record them, however I forget the name of the company and the don't know the website. I will try to locate it over the next couple of days and post it when I talk about Ed's message.

Hulu.com Launches Tommorrow

Recently people have been wanting more and more TV and movie content on the web. Apple has done a lot to bring this content to us for a small fee. ABC and CBS have free show on their sites, but they are annoying with the ads and the not-so-user-friendly players. Other sites are trying to do the same, but you still have to pay for it or you have to break the law to get the content. I am very excited about Hulu.com, which is joint venture between Fox, NBC, and Universal. They will offer TV shows and movies for FREE and it is completely legal. They launch tomorrow, but you can see some shows now on the websites.

I went to the site today and started to watch an episode of the Simpsons (It was the first show available on main page). When I clicked on the play button, the show came up really fast. They let me know that this show was sponsored by Taco Bell and was being shown with limited commercial interruption. After the shows theme song and credits there was a 15 second Taco Bell ad. The video was choppy. It started and stopped a lot, so I quit watching a few minutes in. The choppiness may be due to a crappy Internet connection. I am wireless and currently far away from the router. I getting a signal of 11Mbps. I am going to try it tomorrow closer to the router. Even with the small cliche, it looks amazing. All this content for free and it seems like the ad really aren't all that annoying. I know some will continue to buy and many will continue to steal, but this is a great option for those of us that cheap and addicted to TV.

Update: I went back and watched some SNL clips after the launch. I watched them on a better wifi connection (54 mbps) and it worked like a dream. They loaded and played fast. I am so stoked.

Lost Season 4 Episode 6 "The Other Women" Reaction

This episode was amazing. I can not believe they let us know so much in one episode. First off I love getting to know more about "the others" lives before and after the crash. The flashbacks are back for now. We learned a lot about Juliet's life, after she was brought to the island she had to meet with a psychiatrist (Harper) who from the very beginning was jealous of her. It turns out that Juliet has an affair with Harper's husband Goodwin. Through all of this we found out that Harper didn't really care about the affair, she was just worried about Ben finding out and what he would do to Goodwin. It turns out that Ben has a major crush on Juliet (Harper mentions that Juliet looks like "her", we don't know who that is, but I assume it is Ben's former wife or girlfriend). Ben is really psycho over Juliet, he said "You are mine". Does anyone else think Ben is a stalker? Anyway, we already knew that Goodwin was sent to the tale section of the crash to act as a passenger. When Ana-Lucia discovered that he was an "other" she killed him. What we didn't know was the reaction of Juliet to this news. Again they bring up the whole baby-mother dying on the island thing. I think we are going to find out more about that next week. It seems imperative that Sun gets off the island soon.


Meanwhile, back on the island. They make you think that Daniel and Charlotte are bad and are going to kill everyone on the island. Somehow Ben has Harper track down Juliet and tells her that she must kill them to protect everyone. I wonder how Ben is getting these messages out, or did he have all this planned from the beginning? Harper said that Ben is right where he wants to be. It makes me wonder who is really in control, Ben wants everyone to think he is not in control, but I wonder. It turns out that Daniel and Charlotte are not bad, they make the station called the Tempest harmless. Apparently, this is how "the others" killed the Dharma people all those years ago, with some kind of gas and Dan was trying to render it harmless. He did and Jack and Juliet's faith was restored in the boat people.


Speaking of the boat people, I am curious about what happened to Miles, the last time we saw him he had a grenade in his mouth courtesy of Locke. We didn't get to see him this week, but it wasn't for lack of trying on Claire's part, she tried to convince Locke to take her to see Miles. She thought that she could persuade him with her sweetness rather than brute force. Locke of course refused and goes to talk to Ben, then comes the most interesting part of the whole episode. Ben and Locke make a deal that Locke will put Ben under a house arrest of sorts in exchange for what he knows about the boat people. It turns out that Charles Whitmore is behind the whole think. I think we all saw that coming after last weeks episode. Penny's dad is the one trying to find the island to "exploit it" or so Ben says. Ben has that "Red Sox" tape that has Whitmore beating up one of Ben's men. My first question is how did he get tape and who shot it? Also, is Ben a Red Sox fan? Probably, not because he taped over the game.

***Spoiler Alert*****
Anyway, for next week I am looking forward to seeing Sayid and Des on the boat. And we will get to find out who Ben's man is on the boat. From what I can piece together and from what I have read it is Michael. Yes, Michael the very same guy who took off in the motor boat with his son and we have not heard from them again (except in one of Locke's visions). I wonder though did they not have a problem leaving the island with all the time warp stuff going on. I guess Ben knows the secret. I think we will also find out next week that Sun and Jin are the final two in the Oceanic Six. As always, I am awaiting the return of "the others". At least we know that they are still following Ben's guidance and still on the island (Harper is proof of that). I am looking forward to Episode 7 Ji Yeon next week.

Republicans for Hillary

I am very surprised today that Hillary won both Ohio and Texas. I thought that Obama had the nomination locked up, but low and behold he lost. I think Hillary needs to thank the Republicans. I have been listening to Rush Limbaugh and Laura Ingraham on the radio lately and they have been encouraging Republicans in Ohio and Texas to vote for Hillary. The reason is simple, Rush believes that McCain can beat Hillary, but he is not so sure that he can beat Obama. So they are doing all they can to make Hillary the Democratic nomination. From what I can tell in both Ohio and Texas you can vote for either Republican or Democrat in the primaries. You just have to declare before you vote and since the Republican nomination was pretty much locked up many choose to vote for Hillary. I don't know if I could do it; I guess if it was for the greater good. Is it really going to help? Or do we face another nightmare because if this plan works Hillary could be president? They had people on the radio calling in saying that this was wrong, that Rep. should stick to their own party and that this was voter fraud. I don't think it is voter fraud if they have open polling. I also don't think it is wrong, I think it is smart. It will be interesting to see if it works.

Bye Bye Brett

I had Brett Farve on my fantasy team last year and he did a phenomenal job. I came in second place. But no more, because he is retiring. I have to give it to the guy, he is amazing. He definitely is one of the best all time quarterbacks. He has a lot of records for touchdowns and passing, but the most impressive is 275 consecutive starts. That is amazing and testament to his durability and a good O-line. I am happy for him. I am the guy that believes that you should go out on top and he did that. Last year was amazing. I guess I will have to look to someone else when fantasy season rolls around. I hope he doesn't come back like some are predicting and like Jordan did. Brett, just enjoy retirement and take up golf or go be a coach somewhere. I am sure you have a lot of wisdom to give. Goodbye Brett, you truly are an NFL Great.

ESPN News Story

The Political Landscape

About 3 years ago I gave up politics. I used to follow politics a lot; reading about it and listening to political radio. I was tired of all the compromise, the hopelessness of it all. It seems that all politicians only care about is themselves and their positions of power. So I gave it up.

Well, recently I have had a change of heart, sort of. I started to read more about politics and listen to more AM radio and the situation does not seem any better. I am having a huge problem with the political candidates. I am basically a what you would call a values voter. I care about the economy and foreign policy, but I care more about values (i.e. abortion, marriage, etc.) Because of this stance I don't like either of the democratic candidates and the republican candidate doesn't excited me very much. I really liked Huckabee, but it seems that it is mathematically impossible for him to win the GOP nomination.

So, what about this guy McCain. I don't know a lot about him, but I get the sense he is a very moderate. I don't think he will do anything to damage our current value system, but I don' t think he will do anything to improve it. There is a lot on the table with stem cell research, snowflake babies, abortion, gay marriage, etc. and I don't think he will further conservative causes.

So what is a conservative to do. Should I bite the bullet and vote for him? My options seem very limited. Any other conservatives out there struggling with the same thing I am? What are you going to do?

How Many Five Year Olds Could You Take in a Fight?

I don't know why this is so funny, but it hilarious. I can take 18 five year olds in a fight. How many can you take? I guess I don't have to worry about a gang of kindergarteners picking on my little girl when she gets there. Click on the box below to test yourself.


18

Resource Alert

Currently I am taking my students through The 10 Most Common Objections to Christianity by Alex McFarland during our Wednesday night discipleship time. This week we are on Objection No. 8 People Are Basically Good. This is a great book for youth groups, individuals that want to strengthen their faith, or for seekers. I have developed each chapter into a discussion oriented Bible study (In the back Alex has already put down some discussion questions for group use) so our students can digest the myths and understand the truth. It is very deep, but my students love it. One student likes to engage in online chat boards with atheist and she is using a lot the material from this book. Our student need to know this stuff, because they will face this stuff in college and when they get out on their own. Teach apologetics to your children and students. The myths that the book covers are:

1. God is Not Real

2. Creation is a Myth

3. The Bible is Not Completely Authentic

4. The Bible is Not Completely Accurate

5. Jesus Was Just a Man

6. Jesus is Not the Only Way to Heaven

7. A Loving God Wouldn't Send People to Hell

8. People Are Basically Good

9. Christians Are All Hypocrites

10. A Merciful God Wouldn't Allow Suffering



The second Resource Alert is BSafe Online. I am currently teaching my students about Sex, Dating, and Relationships on Sunday nights during our student worship. I am teaching them about boundaries and accountability and it hits me that I am being hypocritically. I am teaching them to be accountable, but my life if wide open to temptation online. So, I am trying this out for my own accountability and also to be a model for other parents. All of us need this software. It is great, you can set different users to have more or less security. You can also get email reports about the online activity. You can monitor chat and IM. It definitely is one of the best filters I have seen. Check it out today.

Lost Season 4 Episode 5 "The Constant" Reaction

I took me while to break down this episode (I had to watch it twice). I have read some other reviews and they thought the same thing I did; that this episode was something straight out of the Back to the Future Trilogy. I did not see the whole time travel thing coming. They eluded to the whole time gap last week and Daniel was so adamant that the helicopter pilot stay on course that I new something was going to happen. I didn't expect Des to freak out and forget who everyone was and really didn't expect him to start jumping through time.

I was very excited to to see the boat this week. I wasn't quite what I expected, it resembled a broke down junker rather than the Q. E. II. The crew members on the boat and doctor on the boat give me the creeps. It seems everyone knows what is going on expect for us and the people for the plane crash. I am getting sick of all the weird glances. I am glad that back on the beach Jack finally took control and got some information out of them. They new about the time problem. That must be why the island is so hard to find. We still don't know why time is messed up.

The whole time warp thing was very interesting and gave us some more information on Des. By the way he has become one of my favorite characters, I really want him and Penny to get together. Is it just me or this show going even more Sci-fi than ever before. Anyway, I liked the whole interplay between Des and Daniel in the present and in the past. But one thing bugs me, Daniel says you can't change the future, but why didn't he remember Des from 1996. Does he have problem or is memory messed up (Remember they were doing a memory test on the beach in the last episode)? I also remember the doctor says that Daniel "...can't even help himself." All of this leads me to believe that Daniel has a problem, maybe a time problem of his own or maybe from all that radiation he was exposed to in 1996 (Des commented that he didn't wear anything to protect his head), it doesn't seem to be affecting his brain function. However, if you allow me to skip to the end, Daniel found that he wrote that Des was his constant (The constant being that anchor that helps one trapped in the time warp to have a source that brings them to reality).

All that is interesting, but not near as interesting as why Penny's dad wanted the first mates journal to the boat of the Black Rock. If you remember the boat was found inland on the island a couple of seasons ago. I think it is the boat that the science teacher was blown up by the dynamite. Mr. Whitmore must be trying to find the island in 1996. My own personal theory is that the boat that the "rescue team" is from is Mr. Whitmore's boat. Mr. Whitmore must have hired that guy that visited Hurly in the loony bin to find the island, so he asembled a team to find it. Why does he want to find the island? The communication officer, George, said before he died that Penny called the boat a lot but they did not anwser the call because they were instructed not to, like whoever told them not answer the call new who she was and what she wanted.

One random thought, who is the captain? Why didn't the captain know that the communications equipment had be sabotaged? Well, at least we know that Penny know that Des is alive and that she is going to intensify he search. Does he get rescued? I hope so. This is getting rather long and confusing, I am sure I left something out, but oh well all will be revealed eventually. By the way, this season so far is the best since the first season.

Next week, I hope we find out more about the boat people, I also want to know what happened to the others and where is this temple. I think we get to see a new Dharma station, oh joy.

Resource Alert!

I remember reading Understanding Today's Youth Culture by Walt Mueller when I was in school, it is a great book but now is very outdated. I was surprised to find an updated version of the book now called Youth Culture 101 by Mueller in my local Christian book store. I am just now diving into the book, but it looks good and I would recomend it to all parents and youth workers.

I also went only to find that Mueller also has a website devoted to youth culture: http://www.cpyu.org/ which stands for Center for Parent/Youth Understanding. I found a lot of media articles and a lot of youth culture articles among other things on the site. It is a very good site and seems to be updated several times a day. Check it out to find out about current youth culture trends. This site will also produces a journal on youth culutre. I am awaiting my first issue and will report about it when I get it.

What I Am Listening To

I like to pass on what I am listening to so others can enjoy it. Here is what I am listening to right now:

Jack Johnson - Sleep Through the Static

I am a huge Jack Johnson fan. I especially liked his last album, but this album is very different from. Don't expect as many catchy tunes, this album has fun parts but is much deeper. It took me several listens to really like it, but now I feel this is his best album yet. Favorite songs: Monsoon, They Do, They Don't, and Hope.

Skillet - Comatose

I took the students from my church to Winter Jam Tour here in Evansville and we all agreed Skillet was definitely the highlight. I remember them from back in the day, but don't remember them rocking out like they did. I bought the album, which is from 2006, and have loved it. It definitely rocks. Favorite songs: Rebirthing, The Last Night, and Whispers in the Dark.

Ingrid Michaelson - Girls and Boys

I, like many people, loved the song on the Old Navy commercial about "giving you my sweater". I looked up the artist and was very surprised by the album. The sweater song (The Way I Am) is not like the rest of the album, each track for the most part is very different. This is probably the best indie album I have heard. The songs are well written, performed, and produced. I love this album. She also got a lot of play on Grey's Anatomy last season, but don't hold that against her. Favorite songs: Die Alone, Starting Now, The Way I Am, and Overboard.

Sanctus Real - We Need Each Other

I bought this album not knowing much about the band, but I was looking for some good music to give away as prizes. I went the Christian book store to listen and was very surprised. It seems this band has been very subdued in the past (I found the album in the soft rock section), but on this album they rock. There are several slower more worshipful songs, but a couple really rock. I like this album very much, definitely worth checking out. Favorite songs: Turn on the Lights, We Need Each Other, and Legacy.