Yes that is correct, the new addition is here. For now....these are the pics.
I am sure more Bo updates and pictures will come here and there....enjoy
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Bojangles has arrived
Yes that is correct, the new addition is here. For now....these are the pics.
I am sure more Bo updates and pictures will come here and there....enjoy
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Tidbit 1
I feel like starting an entry called "Tidbits". Here is part one. These will be random at all times, and sometimes spiritual, insightful, dumb, funny, ridiculous, or just plain lame. haha. Enjoy!
__________________
So I am researching the topic of predestination for a paper in my Church History class at seminary. This topic is a broad as it is long, but we have narrowed the scope a bit in what we are researching. (For those that care - we are discussing the biblical implications/relevance of Augustine's vs. Cassian's view of predestination of the faithful believers)
Here is a tidbit that jumped off the page....
Augustine (on the Father drawing believers to Christ...):
"[And so we teach] as, therefore, we speak justly when we say concerning any teacher of literature who is alone in a city, He(the teacher) teaches literature here to everybody,—not that all men learn, but that there is none who learns literature there who does not learn from him,—so we justly say, God teaches all men to come to Christ, not because all come, but because none comes in any other way."
How about that? And to think...this is not new knowledge, Augustine penned this in 428 A.D.....
thoughts?
__________________
So I am researching the topic of predestination for a paper in my Church History class at seminary. This topic is a broad as it is long, but we have narrowed the scope a bit in what we are researching. (For those that care - we are discussing the biblical implications/relevance of Augustine's vs. Cassian's view of predestination of the faithful believers)
Here is a tidbit that jumped off the page....
Augustine (on the Father drawing believers to Christ...):
"[And so we teach] as, therefore, we speak justly when we say concerning any teacher of literature who is alone in a city, He(the teacher) teaches literature here to everybody,—not that all men learn, but that there is none who learns literature there who does not learn from him,—so we justly say, God teaches all men to come to Christ, not because all come, but because none comes in any other way."
How about that? And to think...this is not new knowledge, Augustine penned this in 428 A.D.....
thoughts?
Thursday, October 08, 2009
The Sufficiency of Grace
Grace. Mystery.
Never have two words seemed so eerily connected. There is something so uncanny about the grace of God. If you are anything like me, then you have heard probably no short of 100 different analogies, similies, or quotes....here are a few.
"Grace is what God gives us when we don't deserve anything...mercy is when God doesn't give us what we do deserve"
"Rain is grace; rain is the sky condescending to the earth; without rain, there would be no life"
"I do not understand the mystery of grace - only that it meets us where we are, but does not leave us where it found us"
"Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me....."
I could go on and on.....and on and on. (oh...and I haven't even quoted the Bible......yet)
As a senior in high school I attached this verse to my illustrious high school career as my senior quote. I have heard this verse my whole life, it's one of the few I have had memorized since my young days....
"But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me" - 2 Corinthians 12:9
I was pretty sure I knew what this verse meant. I had it all down. God's grace is enough for you to get by when you don't feel like gettin' by. Done. Check. Duh.
right?
I think I could say with certainty, that if you needed that application from this verse for a season or situation in your life, then it is more than attainable. But for my arrogant, puny, and feeble mind to think that I "get it" because it's so "easy to understand" is quite pathetic; in reality, it truly shortchanges what God's grace desires to accomplish in all of our lives. Not until recently have I adapted a new insight to this timeless verse.
First of all, it is important to look at the motivation in this verse. In writing to the church in Corinth, Paul has a bit of a "me" moment. In this case, Paul reminds me of...well...me. I believe I have developed a reputation for being a conversation hijacker. If you are really close to me, and have spent intentional time with me in conversation, then you know this to be true....any conversation we engage in could literally cover ANY topic imaginable. I love great conversation...but I feel as if I do not stay on point all the time. Perhaps it's a tragic flaw. I have a fidgety personality - I suppose my fidgety discussions follow suit. However, when I get to the heart of conversation, if I want to use an example, a metaphor, a story to help contribute to the topic...I tell one on myself. I know those the best. Sometimes they are embarrassing, sometimes prideful, sometimes very vulnerable; nevertheless, they are sincere...because they demand the transparency of myself, even if only a little bit.
enter Paul.
He, for a moment, becomes transparent to this church in his letter. And his transparency, is then forever used by God to speak to all of humanity.
Paul, in trying to talk about not being prideful, goes on to say he has struggles, too. He has things in his life he pleads to get rid of. He has issues.....despite of what everyone thinks about him, his missionary journeys, his wisdom, and his great works for the kingdom of God. He isn't as strong as he is made out to be....not as victorious as he is championed. And when he has a desire to boast...he is reminded of these things. But he realizes this....God never asked him to be strong. He never asked him to be perfect. He never asked him to be flawless. And Paul, pens these powerful words...
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
For fear of sounding cliche....this is a gentle reminder of the beauty of simplicity. That God, in His unbelievable wisdom, His power, His strength, His supplication, His.....everything....asks us to let HIM be exactly who He is, through exactly who we are.
And we....we are flawed, affected by sin, submitted to a curse that we did not ask for. We are inadequate - as if it were our profession. We think ourselves so far around situations that we fall short of accomplishing them. We try.... oh so hard, we pick ourselves up....oh so many times, and we find ourselves stuck in the same ruts....oh too often.
Did I say "we"....I meant "me". Maybe you can sympathize.
And it's this very feeling of inadequacy, of insecurity, of weakness, of not humility - but inability that God speaks directly to.
"My grace is sufficient for you, [Andrew]. For my power is made perfect in [your] weakness"
But you may be reading this and saying, "Andrew, I know you. You are a pretty good guy. You are a good youth pastor. I think you are being too hard on yourself".
(please note I am not referencing this thought to fuel any pride I may have...but to make a point)
It is my desire that you do get to see great things come out of my life. It is my hope, my prayer, my mission and goal that my life be a reflection of who God is and that I may be used of a servant, constantly aware of how to make others more exalted than myself....
But you need to know this.....
I didn't get there on my own.
And if you see anything....I mean ANYTHING that resembles me being good, full of character or integrity, uplifting...ANYTHING. It's a picture of the handiwork of grace.
And that is the picture that Paul is trying to paint. We can go through and look at all the great teachings, stories, testimonies of obedience lived out in Paul's life....and even brag on good ole' Paul a bit.
But in taking inventory of himself....
Paul says. I am weak. I am poor. I have struggles.
and if you see things in my life that even resemble anything of God - it's ONLY by the SUFFICIENCY of HIS awesome grace.
How is grace sufficient? That I may live a life perfectly embracing of my weakness, so that He may live a life of power and strength through me. And when that happens - perfection. Not in who I am, or what I have accomplished....no. In who HE is, and what HE is accomplish-ING.
We have to almost re-engineer our thought process:
Never have two words seemed so eerily connected. There is something so uncanny about the grace of God. If you are anything like me, then you have heard probably no short of 100 different analogies, similies, or quotes....here are a few.
"Grace is what God gives us when we don't deserve anything...mercy is when God doesn't give us what we do deserve"
"Rain is grace; rain is the sky condescending to the earth; without rain, there would be no life"
"I do not understand the mystery of grace - only that it meets us where we are, but does not leave us where it found us"
"Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me....."
I could go on and on.....and on and on. (oh...and I haven't even quoted the Bible......yet)
As a senior in high school I attached this verse to my illustrious high school career as my senior quote. I have heard this verse my whole life, it's one of the few I have had memorized since my young days....
"But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me" - 2 Corinthians 12:9
I was pretty sure I knew what this verse meant. I had it all down. God's grace is enough for you to get by when you don't feel like gettin' by. Done. Check. Duh.
right?
I think I could say with certainty, that if you needed that application from this verse for a season or situation in your life, then it is more than attainable. But for my arrogant, puny, and feeble mind to think that I "get it" because it's so "easy to understand" is quite pathetic; in reality, it truly shortchanges what God's grace desires to accomplish in all of our lives. Not until recently have I adapted a new insight to this timeless verse.
First of all, it is important to look at the motivation in this verse. In writing to the church in Corinth, Paul has a bit of a "me" moment. In this case, Paul reminds me of...well...me. I believe I have developed a reputation for being a conversation hijacker. If you are really close to me, and have spent intentional time with me in conversation, then you know this to be true....any conversation we engage in could literally cover ANY topic imaginable. I love great conversation...but I feel as if I do not stay on point all the time. Perhaps it's a tragic flaw. I have a fidgety personality - I suppose my fidgety discussions follow suit. However, when I get to the heart of conversation, if I want to use an example, a metaphor, a story to help contribute to the topic...I tell one on myself. I know those the best. Sometimes they are embarrassing, sometimes prideful, sometimes very vulnerable; nevertheless, they are sincere...because they demand the transparency of myself, even if only a little bit.
enter Paul.
He, for a moment, becomes transparent to this church in his letter. And his transparency, is then forever used by God to speak to all of humanity.
Paul, in trying to talk about not being prideful, goes on to say he has struggles, too. He has things in his life he pleads to get rid of. He has issues.....despite of what everyone thinks about him, his missionary journeys, his wisdom, and his great works for the kingdom of God. He isn't as strong as he is made out to be....not as victorious as he is championed. And when he has a desire to boast...he is reminded of these things. But he realizes this....God never asked him to be strong. He never asked him to be perfect. He never asked him to be flawless. And Paul, pens these powerful words...
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
For fear of sounding cliche....this is a gentle reminder of the beauty of simplicity. That God, in His unbelievable wisdom, His power, His strength, His supplication, His.....everything....asks us to let HIM be exactly who He is, through exactly who we are.
And we....we are flawed, affected by sin, submitted to a curse that we did not ask for. We are inadequate - as if it were our profession. We think ourselves so far around situations that we fall short of accomplishing them. We try.... oh so hard, we pick ourselves up....oh so many times, and we find ourselves stuck in the same ruts....oh too often.
Did I say "we"....I meant "me". Maybe you can sympathize.
And it's this very feeling of inadequacy, of insecurity, of weakness, of not humility - but inability that God speaks directly to.
"My grace is sufficient for you, [Andrew]. For my power is made perfect in [your] weakness"
But you may be reading this and saying, "Andrew, I know you. You are a pretty good guy. You are a good youth pastor. I think you are being too hard on yourself".
(please note I am not referencing this thought to fuel any pride I may have...but to make a point)
It is my desire that you do get to see great things come out of my life. It is my hope, my prayer, my mission and goal that my life be a reflection of who God is and that I may be used of a servant, constantly aware of how to make others more exalted than myself....
But you need to know this.....
I didn't get there on my own.
And if you see anything....I mean ANYTHING that resembles me being good, full of character or integrity, uplifting...ANYTHING. It's a picture of the handiwork of grace.
And that is the picture that Paul is trying to paint. We can go through and look at all the great teachings, stories, testimonies of obedience lived out in Paul's life....and even brag on good ole' Paul a bit.
But in taking inventory of himself....
Paul says. I am weak. I am poor. I have struggles.
and if you see things in my life that even resemble anything of God - it's ONLY by the SUFFICIENCY of HIS awesome grace.
How is grace sufficient? That I may live a life perfectly embracing of my weakness, so that He may live a life of power and strength through me. And when that happens - perfection. Not in who I am, or what I have accomplished....no. In who HE is, and what HE is accomplish-ING.
We have to almost re-engineer our thought process:
God doesn't ask us to be strong. He asks us to be weak - so that He can be strong.
He doesn't ask us to be able. He demands that we admit we are unable - so that He can be able.
He doesn't ask that we make ourselves holy. He requires us to realize our unholiness - so that we may get a glimpse of His holiness.
He doesn't ask that we excel, achieve, or win. He asks us to understand we can't - so that He can accomplish victory through us.
He doesn't ask us to be perfect or adequate.
He shows us our imperfection.
He shows us our constant need for something to make us adequate.
He shows us we haven't earned our right at the table.
He doesn't ask us to be able. He demands that we admit we are unable - so that He can be able.
He doesn't ask that we make ourselves holy. He requires us to realize our unholiness - so that we may get a glimpse of His holiness.
He doesn't ask that we excel, achieve, or win. He asks us to understand we can't - so that He can accomplish victory through us.
He doesn't ask us to be perfect or adequate.
He shows us our imperfection.
He shows us our constant need for something to make us adequate.
He shows us we haven't earned our right at the table.
But He invites us anyway. He makes adequate our inadequacy. He perfects our imperfection.
He becomes SUFFICIENT in not just some, but ALL the ways we are insufficient.
And this, this is a picture of a perfect union.
This....is grace.
That I, in my brokenness, in my inability, in my uselessness, am loved so much - pursued so powerfully - equipped so undeservingly that you - you may get a glimpse of who God is...through who I am not. And when that happens, or if that happens...how can I take credit for it? Because all that I have done is make myself inadequately available, insufficiently useful - so that the perfection and sufficiency of who GOD is can come through - as strength - in me.
Grace. Mysterious? Maybe. Inspiring? Definitely.
To conclude, I want to use Eugene Peterson's Message version of the remainder of 2 Corinthians 12:9,10.
"Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become."
Blessings.
andrew
He becomes SUFFICIENT in not just some, but ALL the ways we are insufficient.
And this, this is a picture of a perfect union.
This....is grace.
That I, in my brokenness, in my inability, in my uselessness, am loved so much - pursued so powerfully - equipped so undeservingly that you - you may get a glimpse of who God is...through who I am not. And when that happens, or if that happens...how can I take credit for it? Because all that I have done is make myself inadequately available, insufficiently useful - so that the perfection and sufficiency of who GOD is can come through - as strength - in me.
Grace. Mysterious? Maybe. Inspiring? Definitely.
To conclude, I want to use Eugene Peterson's Message version of the remainder of 2 Corinthians 12:9,10.
"Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become."
Blessings.
andrew
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
What Wins?
"Once the Bible is less than God's Word Jesus becomes less than God, and sinners become less than sinful." - Mark Driscoll via Twitter
A couple weeks ago, Shane started this thought in my head....then Sunday, Jeff preached on this very topic - and so it has to be discussed.
What wins?
Notice - I am not talking about a sporting event, or a friendly game of kickball - I am talking about when decisions, choices, and crossroads occur....what wins?
Does God's truth win out in your life....or....do your wants win?
Jeff told the story of one of his favorite professors, Dr. Russell Moore, and how Dr. Moore had stated that the question of whether truth wins out in our lives is not answered by how much Bible we know - but by what wins when our wants conflict with is truth.
Meaning (thanks Jeff for wording these better on Sunday...)....
When it comes to your dating life or marriage - what wins? Your wants, or what God's idea of those relationships should look like? Let's be honest - they don't always match up.
How about finances....do you obey and trust His word - or do you handle your wants first? What wins?
With life...when a doctor could tell you an abortion is ok because the baby is going to have health issues - what wins? God's idea of life - or what you "want" in a family?
In your relationships - what wins? Are you all about using people, family, etc to satisfy your wants/needs - or do you live by the standard that says you are to serve others....even your purest enemies. What wins?
For every single person that can possibly read this....I can be sure of this one thing. There is AT LEAST one area in your life that you are battling what is easy, comfortable, enjoyable, you want - that probably conflicts with God's idea for your life...and conflicts with His truth.
I'm not telling you what to do....I'm just asking you. What wins?
You say you want to be about truth? Well, how bad do you want to be about it? Bad enough to show the world (and yourself) that when it comes to living in truth - Jesus wins....even over what I want. I dare you to take that challenge.
Let Him win this week.....
A couple weeks ago, Shane started this thought in my head....then Sunday, Jeff preached on this very topic - and so it has to be discussed.
What wins?
Notice - I am not talking about a sporting event, or a friendly game of kickball - I am talking about when decisions, choices, and crossroads occur....what wins?
Does God's truth win out in your life....or....do your wants win?
Jeff told the story of one of his favorite professors, Dr. Russell Moore, and how Dr. Moore had stated that the question of whether truth wins out in our lives is not answered by how much Bible we know - but by what wins when our wants conflict with is truth.
Meaning (thanks Jeff for wording these better on Sunday...)....
When it comes to your dating life or marriage - what wins? Your wants, or what God's idea of those relationships should look like? Let's be honest - they don't always match up.
How about finances....do you obey and trust His word - or do you handle your wants first? What wins?
With life...when a doctor could tell you an abortion is ok because the baby is going to have health issues - what wins? God's idea of life - or what you "want" in a family?
In your relationships - what wins? Are you all about using people, family, etc to satisfy your wants/needs - or do you live by the standard that says you are to serve others....even your purest enemies. What wins?
For every single person that can possibly read this....I can be sure of this one thing. There is AT LEAST one area in your life that you are battling what is easy, comfortable, enjoyable, you want - that probably conflicts with God's idea for your life...and conflicts with His truth.
I'm not telling you what to do....I'm just asking you. What wins?
You say you want to be about truth? Well, how bad do you want to be about it? Bad enough to show the world (and yourself) that when it comes to living in truth - Jesus wins....even over what I want. I dare you to take that challenge.
Let Him win this week.....
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Really?
Has it REALLLLLLY been February since my last update?
Wow...if you are looking for said "directions" (ahem...see blog title if you are slow haha) then I hope you didn't look in the months of March-May. Wow. I apologize....and also assume all found there way. (aside - quite frankly if they were trusting me they would be lost anyway....yes...all three of you that read this)
Anywho....I vow to be more on top of things...and I have a lot to "vomit" onto here about my current whereabouts these days and some crazy turns of events. Should be fun....but let's wait til my thoughts are more organized, shall we?
I'll be getting back to ya....
A
Wow...if you are looking for said "directions" (ahem...see blog title if you are slow haha) then I hope you didn't look in the months of March-May. Wow. I apologize....and also assume all found there way. (aside - quite frankly if they were trusting me they would be lost anyway....yes...all three of you that read this)
Anywho....I vow to be more on top of things...and I have a lot to "vomit" onto here about my current whereabouts these days and some crazy turns of events. Should be fun....but let's wait til my thoughts are more organized, shall we?
I'll be getting back to ya....
A
Friday, February 13, 2009
My Top 10 Moments in Music
This list just happened out of thin air. Drew and I were just discussing incredible music and it prompted me to think of my all time favorites (in the form of a top 10 and some honorable mentions) moments in music history.
First I will start with the Honorable Mentions:
- The first HM is sharing the song "Should Have Been a Cowboy" by Toby Keith with Troy Woodyard. Not only have we played this song together for fun, but when we hear it on the radio, we call and leave it as a voicemail. It's fun!
- Second HM; During the miraculous UK - Arkansas football game from this past 2008 season, where UK came from behind to win in the last four minutes....Kate and I shared a spirited song and dance to (believe it or not) the UK Marching Band's timely rendition of "Hey Baby". Now forever making me smile when the song plays, and also thinking of Kate!
- Third and final HM; also related to UK Sports....post tornado and post the ridiculous loss to Georgia at the Georgia Tech campus at the 2008 SEC Tournament, the group in the car was a little down in the dumps. Miles began with the first line from "Build Me Up, Buttercup" and the rest of the car began with the echo ('Build me up'). Before long the whole car was singing it acapella as we ventured through Atlanta. Simply amazing! A special hats off to Ryan, Jay, Matt, Miles....and I suppose myself.
Now onto the list.....
10. "Bubbly" I would have never thought that Colbie Caillat would have cracked my Top 10, but indeed she has. Not too long ago, Brandon Hall, Robbie Gray, and myself performed somewhat impromptu at Common Grounds Coffee House at their Monday open-mic night. We wanted to end with a tongue in cheek "bang" but have some fun...so what better to cover than "Bubbly"? Not only was it a blast to play, but the crowd, which was once consumed with coffee and conversation, gave us their full attention and ultimately their voices as they sang along. It was awesome. Their may be a video floating around facebook of it if you can find it ; ).
9. "Vultures" by John Mayer Trio, live in Nashville. In the fall of 2005 I witnessed my first Mayer show at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN as he played with just two other amazing muscians in forming the John Mayer Trio. It was a night full of blues and rock and blew my mind...starting my fandom of JM. Vultures was the highlight of my night, and something I will always remember, no matter how many times I see him live, which if we are keeping count is now at 5. John, you had me from "hello".
8. "This is it" by Kenny Loggins. Every single high school golf match had it's traditions; we warmed up with putting, we heeded the pre-round meeting from our coach, but more than anything, the members of the 2002 ACHS Golf Team sang as loud as we could to this Kenny Loggins hit. Rooted in classic 80's style this record now holds a special, special place in the hearts of each member of that golf team. "STAND UP AND FIGHT....THIS IS IT!"
7. "Strawberry Fields Forever" & "Imagine" by the Beatles/John Lennon. This past April I had the privilege of traveling to New York City as an adult chaperon with Anderson County High School and my sister, Laura's, senior class for their year-end trip. The first ipod moment on the countdown, this little ditty happened while standing over the Imagine memorial in Central Park. It just felt surreal to be there and be alive inside the music in my head, and the music that was his life. Neato.
6. "How Great Thou Art" - Christy Nockels/Matt Redman at Passion 06. After the final conference session of the night, all the attendees of Passion 06 were invited to attend one of many late night events. In the home of the Grand Ole Opry, and a former church, The Ryman Auditorium, it was an incredible night of worship capped off by singing this song of worship and praise.
5. "Everything In It's Right Place" by Radiohead, live in Indianapolis. Widely known as one of the best and most inspirational bands in music history, Radiohead puts on quite a show. Attending with Drew, Joe, RJ, and my boy Mike, we were wowed by a musical performance of the ages. Even though I sat in the grass I was blown away by the feel, movement, and momentum of the music. It was so intense it felt like a workout. I could have probably chosen any song, but this was the one for me....one of my faves, plus the light show was crazy good.
4. "The Music of the Night" by Phantom of the Opera, live on Broadway NYC (April 2003/April 2008). This is the only song on the list that I have had the chance to experience in the same way twice. Little known fact about Andrew: he loves musicals, especially the Phantom. I believe I have seen the Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber four times, but the two times on Broadway were especially memorable. The first time I set by my gal Elizabeth Ingram, and the second time, and on the seventh row (wow), I was blessed to share the song with my sister. This is my favorite song from the musical, so this moment took the cake. Hearing it so close gave me goose bumbs both times!
3. "Worship in Espanol". I'm going to credit this song to Julian Mejia. If you don't know about Julian, I suggest you click the link or read my older post from November 2007. Sadly I do not know the title of the songs that played over my cd player, but with Julian riding shotgun on our way to a worksite in New Orleans we jammed to spanish praise and worship. Meredyth, Laura, and I listened as Julian sang, and sang proudly. We switched to an English cd a bit later and her heard us sing. He told us, in Spanish, that our worship, while he couldn't understand the words, smelled as if it were a "fragrant flower". I love this man with all my heart, and for this small moment in my life, it was awesome to share a moment of worship with this Saint in NOLA.
2. "Covered in Rain" by John Mayer. Surprisingly, JM only made it on my list twice, and this one is by far the best moment. You may not be familiar with this song since it has never been recorded in the studio by John. At a recent concert, Mayer told the story behind the song. Shortly following the events of September 11th, the Mayer tour bus was scheduled to roll into NYC. This event had been scheduled far before the catastrophic events that had taken place. In an effort to propose a tribute to the city, Mayer took a bridge from his hit "City Love" that says...."the day she called up and came to me, covered in rain...." and formed it into a sequel to the song...about how the characters in "City Love" (a man and a woman) lived in reaction to the tragic events of 9/11. That is a pretty cool idea in and of itself. What makes this song special to me, is that it was roaring through the ipod as I stood at the Eleven Tears Memorial at Ground Zero. It was a very gripping moment for me that followed up an emotional story that had just told by our tour guide. I stood there, watching the water drip, and listening to this song, I, for a moment, did not feel like a tourist....I felt like an American, not one dripping with patriotism, but one wrapped up in the burden, the struggles, and the hopes of my fellow citizens. It was a heavy and profound moment; and music just happened to be involved.
and finally....
1. "Amazing Grace" by the attendees of Passion 05. As a Sophomore in college this was one of my first conference events that I felt like I participated in, not really attended to learn something or be motivated. For it's first conference since the mid 90's, the Passion group put on a week long conference event as opposed to a concert/message event. Over 15,000 college students descended upon Nashville, TN to ring in the New Year with Louie and the boys of Passion (Dave Crowder, Chris Tomlin, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman, etc). On the next to last session together, the David Crowder Band was leading the group in worship. Worship was awesome in and of itself, but what happened next is the most overwhelmed I have ever been by the Spirit of my Lord. DCB led us in "Come Thou Fount" leading into Louie's teaching time. As the band ended, they tagged "Amazing Grace" and were going to let the chorus ring out as Louie transitioned on the stage. However, we, the crowd, were not finished. As Louie walked out for his turn, we were firing up for the second verse. He stood there dumbfounded, in front of this mass of thousands, screaming at the top of their lungs this heralded anthem of our faith. The was no music, no sing along track, no words on the screens; just us, as a mass of 15,000, crying out in worship. Louie walked back off the stage and let the crowd participate in it's worship as it finished out the entire song. The moment was absolutely breathtaking...and a small glimpse of what I can envision in Heaven. When it came to my number 1, it was a no brainer....it was this.
So there you have it...the current journey through my musical Top 10 moments. Please, feel free to make a list of your own...I would love to read about your moments. If I left any moments off, I'll edit them in a later post.
First I will start with the Honorable Mentions:
- The first HM is sharing the song "Should Have Been a Cowboy" by Toby Keith with Troy Woodyard. Not only have we played this song together for fun, but when we hear it on the radio, we call and leave it as a voicemail. It's fun!
- Second HM; During the miraculous UK - Arkansas football game from this past 2008 season, where UK came from behind to win in the last four minutes....Kate and I shared a spirited song and dance to (believe it or not) the UK Marching Band's timely rendition of "Hey Baby". Now forever making me smile when the song plays, and also thinking of Kate!
- Third and final HM; also related to UK Sports....post tornado and post the ridiculous loss to Georgia at the Georgia Tech campus at the 2008 SEC Tournament, the group in the car was a little down in the dumps. Miles began with the first line from "Build Me Up, Buttercup" and the rest of the car began with the echo ('Build me up'). Before long the whole car was singing it acapella as we ventured through Atlanta. Simply amazing! A special hats off to Ryan, Jay, Matt, Miles....and I suppose myself.
Now onto the list.....
10. "Bubbly" I would have never thought that Colbie Caillat would have cracked my Top 10, but indeed she has. Not too long ago, Brandon Hall, Robbie Gray, and myself performed somewhat impromptu at Common Grounds Coffee House at their Monday open-mic night. We wanted to end with a tongue in cheek "bang" but have some fun...so what better to cover than "Bubbly"? Not only was it a blast to play, but the crowd, which was once consumed with coffee and conversation, gave us their full attention and ultimately their voices as they sang along. It was awesome. Their may be a video floating around facebook of it if you can find it ; ).
9. "Vultures" by John Mayer Trio, live in Nashville. In the fall of 2005 I witnessed my first Mayer show at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN as he played with just two other amazing muscians in forming the John Mayer Trio. It was a night full of blues and rock and blew my mind...starting my fandom of JM. Vultures was the highlight of my night, and something I will always remember, no matter how many times I see him live, which if we are keeping count is now at 5. John, you had me from "hello".
8. "This is it" by Kenny Loggins. Every single high school golf match had it's traditions; we warmed up with putting, we heeded the pre-round meeting from our coach, but more than anything, the members of the 2002 ACHS Golf Team sang as loud as we could to this Kenny Loggins hit. Rooted in classic 80's style this record now holds a special, special place in the hearts of each member of that golf team. "STAND UP AND FIGHT....THIS IS IT!"
7. "Strawberry Fields Forever" & "Imagine" by the Beatles/John Lennon. This past April I had the privilege of traveling to New York City as an adult chaperon with Anderson County High School and my sister, Laura's, senior class for their year-end trip. The first ipod moment on the countdown, this little ditty happened while standing over the Imagine memorial in Central Park. It just felt surreal to be there and be alive inside the music in my head, and the music that was his life. Neato.
6. "How Great Thou Art" - Christy Nockels/Matt Redman at Passion 06. After the final conference session of the night, all the attendees of Passion 06 were invited to attend one of many late night events. In the home of the Grand Ole Opry, and a former church, The Ryman Auditorium, it was an incredible night of worship capped off by singing this song of worship and praise.
5. "Everything In It's Right Place" by Radiohead, live in Indianapolis. Widely known as one of the best and most inspirational bands in music history, Radiohead puts on quite a show. Attending with Drew, Joe, RJ, and my boy Mike, we were wowed by a musical performance of the ages. Even though I sat in the grass I was blown away by the feel, movement, and momentum of the music. It was so intense it felt like a workout. I could have probably chosen any song, but this was the one for me....one of my faves, plus the light show was crazy good.
4. "The Music of the Night" by Phantom of the Opera, live on Broadway NYC (April 2003/April 2008). This is the only song on the list that I have had the chance to experience in the same way twice. Little known fact about Andrew: he loves musicals, especially the Phantom. I believe I have seen the Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber four times, but the two times on Broadway were especially memorable. The first time I set by my gal Elizabeth Ingram, and the second time, and on the seventh row (wow), I was blessed to share the song with my sister. This is my favorite song from the musical, so this moment took the cake. Hearing it so close gave me goose bumbs both times!
3. "Worship in Espanol". I'm going to credit this song to Julian Mejia. If you don't know about Julian, I suggest you click the link or read my older post from November 2007. Sadly I do not know the title of the songs that played over my cd player, but with Julian riding shotgun on our way to a worksite in New Orleans we jammed to spanish praise and worship. Meredyth, Laura, and I listened as Julian sang, and sang proudly. We switched to an English cd a bit later and her heard us sing. He told us, in Spanish, that our worship, while he couldn't understand the words, smelled as if it were a "fragrant flower". I love this man with all my heart, and for this small moment in my life, it was awesome to share a moment of worship with this Saint in NOLA.
2. "Covered in Rain" by John Mayer. Surprisingly, JM only made it on my list twice, and this one is by far the best moment. You may not be familiar with this song since it has never been recorded in the studio by John. At a recent concert, Mayer told the story behind the song. Shortly following the events of September 11th, the Mayer tour bus was scheduled to roll into NYC. This event had been scheduled far before the catastrophic events that had taken place. In an effort to propose a tribute to the city, Mayer took a bridge from his hit "City Love" that says...."the day she called up and came to me, covered in rain...." and formed it into a sequel to the song...about how the characters in "City Love" (a man and a woman) lived in reaction to the tragic events of 9/11. That is a pretty cool idea in and of itself. What makes this song special to me, is that it was roaring through the ipod as I stood at the Eleven Tears Memorial at Ground Zero. It was a very gripping moment for me that followed up an emotional story that had just told by our tour guide. I stood there, watching the water drip, and listening to this song, I, for a moment, did not feel like a tourist....I felt like an American, not one dripping with patriotism, but one wrapped up in the burden, the struggles, and the hopes of my fellow citizens. It was a heavy and profound moment; and music just happened to be involved.
and finally....
1. "Amazing Grace" by the attendees of Passion 05. As a Sophomore in college this was one of my first conference events that I felt like I participated in, not really attended to learn something or be motivated. For it's first conference since the mid 90's, the Passion group put on a week long conference event as opposed to a concert/message event. Over 15,000 college students descended upon Nashville, TN to ring in the New Year with Louie and the boys of Passion (Dave Crowder, Chris Tomlin, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman, etc). On the next to last session together, the David Crowder Band was leading the group in worship. Worship was awesome in and of itself, but what happened next is the most overwhelmed I have ever been by the Spirit of my Lord. DCB led us in "Come Thou Fount" leading into Louie's teaching time. As the band ended, they tagged "Amazing Grace" and were going to let the chorus ring out as Louie transitioned on the stage. However, we, the crowd, were not finished. As Louie walked out for his turn, we were firing up for the second verse. He stood there dumbfounded, in front of this mass of thousands, screaming at the top of their lungs this heralded anthem of our faith. The was no music, no sing along track, no words on the screens; just us, as a mass of 15,000, crying out in worship. Louie walked back off the stage and let the crowd participate in it's worship as it finished out the entire song. The moment was absolutely breathtaking...and a small glimpse of what I can envision in Heaven. When it came to my number 1, it was a no brainer....it was this.
So there you have it...the current journey through my musical Top 10 moments. Please, feel free to make a list of your own...I would love to read about your moments. If I left any moments off, I'll edit them in a later post.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Question #1
Alright, alright...it's time to tackle one of the questions. Here we go...
"Why do we always want what we can't have?"
This is a fun question to start with. I don't think my answer or any possible answer will necessarily conjure up a huge theological discussion, but hey...you never know. As always your thoughts and comments are more than welcome! So, without further adieu...let's have at it.
In looking at these questions, I think it is important that we determine the heart in which the question is asked, and deal with it accordingly.
To me, this question is speaking directly toward feelings that we may have in our heart. Feelings of greed, feelings of jealousy, and the like.
This question has probably been asked for thousands of years; just think, even the first couple dealt with this issue...wanting what they were told not to partake of...and they were consequently dealt a punishment for their actions. A punishment that we, and all of creation, are still paying today; namely, absent from the perfect state in which creation was made.
Therefore, we need to determine WHAT made Adam and Eve desire that fruit in the garden. The answer: Their lust for more. But wait...this wasn't about sex. I know that...and lust isn't always about sex either. Lust is the belief that something BETTER than our current situation is available to us and should be pursued by us.
The lie of lust tells us that the desire for MORE outweighs the cost and risk....and it promises us something that we feel like we don't already have. And sometimes, it's even about sex.
You can lust for power. You can lust for love. You can lust for acceptance. You can lust for money. You can lust for lots of things...and ultimately the lie of lust hits us square in our independent and jealous hearts. How's that? Meaning, that lust would tell us that WE, as individuals, know more of what we need and want than God does for us. And WE have a RESPONSIBILITY to pursue that and capture what God has been keeping from us. WE DESERVE MORE! That is the heartbeat of lust, and it speaks directly to the jealousy and anger in our hearts.
Jealousy and anger?? Toward who...jealous about what?
Wait...we aren't jealous are we? Are we? Are you? Have you ever wanted what someone else has? Their possessions, background, status, spouse, kids, opportunity, etc?
Have you ever felt inadequate by comparison to them?
Have you ever celebrated a bit when someone who had more/better than you failed?
If so, then you are jealous. You are. The only thing that makes a jealous heart feel any better is by seeing someone else fail. But it doesn't last. And really, it only PROVES the fact that you are indeed jealous. If you have ever snickered when someone got a fender bender in their new car, got reprimanded at their incredible job, had a fight in their unbelievable relationship, or looked a little worse this year at the beach than last year - then YOU ARE JEALOUS!
You may say, I'm not jealous. I only want what is fair. But you don't want what is fair...you really just want MORE. If everyone was fair then everyone would be incredibly average. The things in which you excel would be only normal. Fair doesn't help your jealously. Only more does.
Unless we realize the heart of our jealousy is really something else. It's really anger. Anger? Yep...anger.
If I were to tell you and someone else that I was giving away a new car, and gave the car to the other person, while giving you a matchbox Hot Wheels car, then, you would be upset.
You would say...
"It isn't FAIR that they got the car and I didn't. "
"What did I do to deserve the toy car?"
"Why did THEY get picked"
But you wouldn't be mad at them. They just got a car. Who would you be mad at? You would be mad at ME! Because it was ME that gave away the car at my discretion and I chose to give it to them. They didn't deserve it more. I just gave it to them because I wanted to.
Your anger would be directed at ME if you had a problem with anyone, because it was ME that seemingly ignored you with my gift. Right?
So when we are jealous of what others have, is our anger really at them or someone bigger than them? I believe our anger is directed at God.
I think we feel that God OWES us. That He has dropped the ball when it came to blessing us. We get mad at Him because He obviously ignored our requests, our desires, our needs, etc. We feel like He has picked others over us...and we are angry about it.
But we rarely admit that. Not sure why, if we really feel that way - He already knows...and we are still alive to read this. But maybe, maybe this unspoken and perhaps unnoticed anger or disappointment in God is a good place for you to start.
What? You want me to tell God I'm mad at Him? That I feel ignored and left out?
Yep - I sure do! And I want you to get out any and every frustration you may have with Him. Guess what...He can take it. And if He hasn't hit you with lightning yet, He probably won't for this admittance either.
Well what does this accomplish?
The admittance to being angry with God, feeling left out, ignored, marginalized, or punished by Him really gives Him a big opportunity. It becomes His turn to talk.
And what will He say?
Something like this....(A paraphrase of numerous scriptures/truths concerning God's heartbeat for His children....as imagined by me)
You weren't ignored by me. I LOVE you. I love you so much that I withstood all the pain and suffering and disgrace imaginable so that I could once again, for now and eternity have a way to CONNECT with you! You were not left out by me....I fearfully and wonderfully MADE you to be exactly the person that you are, and I want you to TRUST me with what is best for your future. After all, who knows your abilities and talents better than I....don't you think I may have placed those within you for the story that is still unfolding out of your life? You may think I could have done things better and blessed you more, but the biggest blessing in your life is really ME anyway. If I get to hold you and embrace you even while you are crying, that is so very special for me. I have given you all you need to make it...because I have given you myself! And I did all that because I believe in the power of ME living in YOU. Thanks for letting me say this!
(Maybe, in looking at the truth of scripture, it would sound a little like that.)
Still angry at that God?
Give Him more opportunity to talk....it's a great conversation!
Why do we want what we can't have? Because we believe that lie that it will bring MORE to our lives, when in reality, we have all we could possibly want, hope for, and dream of already within our grasp. Thanks be to God for being the biggest dreamer and provider for us imaginable. And even when I want MORE....I am thankful to have all that I could possibly want!
Blessings,
Andrew
**Some content concerning jealously/anger was pulled from Andy Stanley's book/sermon series "It Came From Within" concerning issues of our hearts.**
"Why do we always want what we can't have?"
This is a fun question to start with. I don't think my answer or any possible answer will necessarily conjure up a huge theological discussion, but hey...you never know. As always your thoughts and comments are more than welcome! So, without further adieu...let's have at it.
In looking at these questions, I think it is important that we determine the heart in which the question is asked, and deal with it accordingly.
To me, this question is speaking directly toward feelings that we may have in our heart. Feelings of greed, feelings of jealousy, and the like.
This question has probably been asked for thousands of years; just think, even the first couple dealt with this issue...wanting what they were told not to partake of...and they were consequently dealt a punishment for their actions. A punishment that we, and all of creation, are still paying today; namely, absent from the perfect state in which creation was made.
Therefore, we need to determine WHAT made Adam and Eve desire that fruit in the garden. The answer: Their lust for more. But wait...this wasn't about sex. I know that...and lust isn't always about sex either. Lust is the belief that something BETTER than our current situation is available to us and should be pursued by us.
The lie of lust tells us that the desire for MORE outweighs the cost and risk....and it promises us something that we feel like we don't already have. And sometimes, it's even about sex.
You can lust for power. You can lust for love. You can lust for acceptance. You can lust for money. You can lust for lots of things...and ultimately the lie of lust hits us square in our independent and jealous hearts. How's that? Meaning, that lust would tell us that WE, as individuals, know more of what we need and want than God does for us. And WE have a RESPONSIBILITY to pursue that and capture what God has been keeping from us. WE DESERVE MORE! That is the heartbeat of lust, and it speaks directly to the jealousy and anger in our hearts.
Jealousy and anger?? Toward who...jealous about what?
Wait...we aren't jealous are we? Are we? Are you? Have you ever wanted what someone else has? Their possessions, background, status, spouse, kids, opportunity, etc?
Have you ever felt inadequate by comparison to them?
Have you ever celebrated a bit when someone who had more/better than you failed?
If so, then you are jealous. You are. The only thing that makes a jealous heart feel any better is by seeing someone else fail. But it doesn't last. And really, it only PROVES the fact that you are indeed jealous. If you have ever snickered when someone got a fender bender in their new car, got reprimanded at their incredible job, had a fight in their unbelievable relationship, or looked a little worse this year at the beach than last year - then YOU ARE JEALOUS!
You may say, I'm not jealous. I only want what is fair. But you don't want what is fair...you really just want MORE. If everyone was fair then everyone would be incredibly average. The things in which you excel would be only normal. Fair doesn't help your jealously. Only more does.
Unless we realize the heart of our jealousy is really something else. It's really anger. Anger? Yep...anger.
If I were to tell you and someone else that I was giving away a new car, and gave the car to the other person, while giving you a matchbox Hot Wheels car, then, you would be upset.
You would say...
"It isn't FAIR that they got the car and I didn't. "
"What did I do to deserve the toy car?"
"Why did THEY get picked"
But you wouldn't be mad at them. They just got a car. Who would you be mad at? You would be mad at ME! Because it was ME that gave away the car at my discretion and I chose to give it to them. They didn't deserve it more. I just gave it to them because I wanted to.
Your anger would be directed at ME if you had a problem with anyone, because it was ME that seemingly ignored you with my gift. Right?
So when we are jealous of what others have, is our anger really at them or someone bigger than them? I believe our anger is directed at God.
I think we feel that God OWES us. That He has dropped the ball when it came to blessing us. We get mad at Him because He obviously ignored our requests, our desires, our needs, etc. We feel like He has picked others over us...and we are angry about it.
But we rarely admit that. Not sure why, if we really feel that way - He already knows...and we are still alive to read this. But maybe, maybe this unspoken and perhaps unnoticed anger or disappointment in God is a good place for you to start.
What? You want me to tell God I'm mad at Him? That I feel ignored and left out?
Yep - I sure do! And I want you to get out any and every frustration you may have with Him. Guess what...He can take it. And if He hasn't hit you with lightning yet, He probably won't for this admittance either.
Well what does this accomplish?
The admittance to being angry with God, feeling left out, ignored, marginalized, or punished by Him really gives Him a big opportunity. It becomes His turn to talk.
And what will He say?
Something like this....(A paraphrase of numerous scriptures/truths concerning God's heartbeat for His children....as imagined by me)
You weren't ignored by me. I LOVE you. I love you so much that I withstood all the pain and suffering and disgrace imaginable so that I could once again, for now and eternity have a way to CONNECT with you! You were not left out by me....I fearfully and wonderfully MADE you to be exactly the person that you are, and I want you to TRUST me with what is best for your future. After all, who knows your abilities and talents better than I....don't you think I may have placed those within you for the story that is still unfolding out of your life? You may think I could have done things better and blessed you more, but the biggest blessing in your life is really ME anyway. If I get to hold you and embrace you even while you are crying, that is so very special for me. I have given you all you need to make it...because I have given you myself! And I did all that because I believe in the power of ME living in YOU. Thanks for letting me say this!
(Maybe, in looking at the truth of scripture, it would sound a little like that.)
Still angry at that God?
Give Him more opportunity to talk....it's a great conversation!
Why do we want what we can't have? Because we believe that lie that it will bring MORE to our lives, when in reality, we have all we could possibly want, hope for, and dream of already within our grasp. Thanks be to God for being the biggest dreamer and provider for us imaginable. And even when I want MORE....I am thankful to have all that I could possibly want!
Blessings,
Andrew
**Some content concerning jealously/anger was pulled from Andy Stanley's book/sermon series "It Came From Within" concerning issues of our hearts.**
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