Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Would You Let This Group In Your House?
It was a fun 4th at the Carriger House. Good food, fun and family. What else could you ask for? Craig being here as well. We miss you big guy!
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Scripture for Today
Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.
Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.
1 Chronicles 29:11-13
Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.
1 Chronicles 29:11-13
Monday, July 06, 2009
First Board Meeting Today
Tonight is my first board meeting in USD 493 Columbus. I'm excited as we look to the future and plan for the 2009-10 school year.
Debbie is headed to Osage City today to prep for a garage sale on Friday. We have good news......we have a contract on our house in Osage. We hope to finalize everything by July 17. Please be praying for everything to turn out well on the sale of our house.
We had a great time with family this past weekend. The food, fireworks and family time was great!
Debbie is headed to Osage City today to prep for a garage sale on Friday. We have good news......we have a contract on our house in Osage. We hope to finalize everything by July 17. Please be praying for everything to turn out well on the sale of our house.
We had a great time with family this past weekend. The food, fireworks and family time was great!
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Placed Membership Today
The Church at Columbus has been a very caring and welcoming to Debbie and I. We have enjoyed good Bible teaching and preaching from Troy and really have enjoyed getting to know the Church Family.
Debbie and I will officially place membership with the congregation today. We wish to be a part of this great family and minister to the Columbus community. We pray we can encourage the church here as much as they have encouraged and supported us in our move here.
We should have several family visitors attend church with us today.
Debbie and I will officially place membership with the congregation today. We wish to be a part of this great family and minister to the Columbus community. We pray we can encourage the church here as much as they have encouraged and supported us in our move here.
We should have several family visitors attend church with us today.
Friday, July 03, 2009
The Annual Carriger 4th of July Celebration
It's that time of year once again for the Carriger Family to head to our place for the 4th of of July weekend. This year they head to Columbus for our annual catfish fry and BBQ fest. It should be a fun time.
I have enjoyed my new position and getting moved in and acquainted with the staff of USD 493. They are great people.
I have enjoyed my new position and getting moved in and acquainted with the staff of USD 493. They are great people.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
My First Day on the Job
July 1, 2009, my first day in my new position as Superintendent of Schools in Columbus. I'm excited as I meet new people and work with a great group of educators and support personnel as we try to give the students of USD 493 Columbus the very best education possible. Please pray for me in my new position and as we look to the future.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Allison's Birthday
Happy Birthday to my daughter-in-law. She celebrates her 23rd birthday today as a married young lady. Hopefully Brian hasn't forgotten what today is.
Friday, June 26, 2009
A Hot but Relaxing Golf Vacation
We had a great golf vacation in Berryville, Arkansas the past 4 days. We played 46 holes of golf on Monday and 47 holes on Tuesday. The temperatures were around 98 degrees with high humidity. But we still kept on playing.
We decided to take it easy on Wednesday and spent the entire day at Silver Dollar City. I think the temperature was even hotter. It was around 100. The best part was the one hour tour of Marvel Cave and the constant 60 degree temperature.
We played one last course on Thursday at Neosho, Missouri before heading home. It was a course that I have wanted to play for years but never had the chance. What a great golf course, 27 holes. It was built by the great golf architect Perry Maxwell in 1926. It is a beautiful Ozark Mountain Course.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
What Does This Verse Mean to Me?
What Does This Verse Mean "to Me"?
Titus 1:9, Romans 12:1-2
by John MacArthur
That's a fashionable concern, judging from the trends in devotional booklets, home Bible study discussions, Sunday-school literature, and most popular preaching.
The question of what Scripture means has taken a back seat to the issue of what it means "to me."
The difference may seem insignificant at first. Nevertheless, our obsession with the Scripture's applicability reflects a fundamental weakness. We have adopted practicality as the ultimate judge of the worth of God's Word. We bury ourselves in passages that overtly relate to daily living, and ignore those that don't.
Early in my ministry, I made a conscious commitment to biblical preaching. My first priority has always been to answer the question, "What does this passage mean?" After I've explained as clearly and accurately as possible the meaning of God's Word, then I exhort people to obey and apply it to their own lives.
The Bible speaks for itself to the human heart; it is not my role as a preacher to try to tailor the message. That's why I preach my way through entire books of the Bible, dealing carefully with each verse and phrase-even though that occasionally means spending time in passages that don't readily lend themselves to anecdotal or motivational messages.
I am grateful to the Lord for the way He has used this expository approach in our church and in the lives of our radio listeners.
But now and then someone tells me frankly that my preaching needs to be less doctrinal and more practical.
Practical application is vital. I don't want to minimize its importance. But the distinction between doctrinal and practical truth is artificial; doctrine is practical! In fact, nothing is more practical than sound doctrine.
Too many Christians view doctrine as heady and theoretical. They have dismissed doctrinal passages as unimportant, divisive, threatening, or simply impractical. A best-selling Christian book I just read warns readers to be on guard against preachers whose emphasis is on interpreting Scripture rather than applying it.
Wait a minute. Is that wise counsel? No it is not.
There is no danger of irrelevant doctrine; the real threat is an undoctrinal attempt at relevance. Application not based on solid interpretation has led Christians into all kinds of confusion.
No discipline is more sorely needed in the contemporary church than expositional biblical teaching. Too many have bought the lie that doctrine is something abstract and threatening, unrelated to daily life.
It is in vogue to substitute psychology and spoon-fed application for doctrinal substance, while demeaning theological and expositional ministry.
But the pastor who turns away from preaching sound doctrine abdicates the primary responsibility of an elder: "holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, that he may be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict" (Titus 1:9).
Practical insights, gimmicks, and illustrations mean little if they're not attached to divine principles. There's no basis for godly behavior apart from the truth of God's Word.
There are only three options: We teach truth, error, or nothing at all.
Before the preacher asks anyone to perform a certain duty, he must first deal with doctrine. He must develop his message around theological themes and draw out the principles of the texts. Then the truth can be applied.
Romans provides the clearest biblical example. Paul didn't give any exhortation until he had given eleven chapters of theology.
He scaled incredible heights of truth, culminating in 11:33-36: "Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who became His counselor? Or who has first given Him that it might be paid back to Him again? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen."
Then in chapter 12, he turned immediately to the practical consequences of the doctrine of the first 11 chapters. No passage in Scripture captures the Christian's responsibility to the truth more clearly than Romans 12:1-2. There, building on eleven chapters of profound doctrine, Paul calls each believer to a supreme act of spiritual worship-giving oneself as a living sacrifice. Doctrine gives rise to dedication to Christ, the greatest practical act. And the remainder of the book of Romans goes on to explain the many practical outworkings of one's dedication to Christ.
Paul followed the same pattern in Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and 1 Thessalonians. The doctrinal message came first. Upon that foundation he built the practical application, making the logical connection with the word therefore (Rom. 12:1; Gal. 5:1; Eph. 4:1; Phil. 2:1) or then (Col. 3:1; 1 Thess. 4:1).
True doctrine transforms behavior as it is woven into the fabric of everyday life. But it must be understood if it is to have its impact. The real challenge of the ministry is to dispense the truth clearly and accurately. Practical application comes easily by comparison.
No believer can apply truth he doesn't know. Those who don't understand what the Bible really says about marriage, divorce, family, child-rearing, discipline, money, debt, work, service to Christ, eternal rewards, helping the poor, caring for widows, respecting government, and other teachings won't be able to apply it.
Those who don't know what the Bible teaches about salvation cannot be saved. Those who don't know what the Bible teaches about holiness are incapable of dealing with sin. Thus they are unable to live fully to their own blessedness and God's glory.
The nucleus of all that is truly practical is sown up in the teaching of Scripture. We don't make the Bible relevant; it is inherently so, simply because it is God's Word. And after all, how can anything God says be irrelevant?
Titus 1:9, Romans 12:1-2
by John MacArthur
That's a fashionable concern, judging from the trends in devotional booklets, home Bible study discussions, Sunday-school literature, and most popular preaching.
The question of what Scripture means has taken a back seat to the issue of what it means "to me."
The difference may seem insignificant at first. Nevertheless, our obsession with the Scripture's applicability reflects a fundamental weakness. We have adopted practicality as the ultimate judge of the worth of God's Word. We bury ourselves in passages that overtly relate to daily living, and ignore those that don't.
Early in my ministry, I made a conscious commitment to biblical preaching. My first priority has always been to answer the question, "What does this passage mean?" After I've explained as clearly and accurately as possible the meaning of God's Word, then I exhort people to obey and apply it to their own lives.
The Bible speaks for itself to the human heart; it is not my role as a preacher to try to tailor the message. That's why I preach my way through entire books of the Bible, dealing carefully with each verse and phrase-even though that occasionally means spending time in passages that don't readily lend themselves to anecdotal or motivational messages.
I am grateful to the Lord for the way He has used this expository approach in our church and in the lives of our radio listeners.
But now and then someone tells me frankly that my preaching needs to be less doctrinal and more practical.
Practical application is vital. I don't want to minimize its importance. But the distinction between doctrinal and practical truth is artificial; doctrine is practical! In fact, nothing is more practical than sound doctrine.
Too many Christians view doctrine as heady and theoretical. They have dismissed doctrinal passages as unimportant, divisive, threatening, or simply impractical. A best-selling Christian book I just read warns readers to be on guard against preachers whose emphasis is on interpreting Scripture rather than applying it.
Wait a minute. Is that wise counsel? No it is not.
There is no danger of irrelevant doctrine; the real threat is an undoctrinal attempt at relevance. Application not based on solid interpretation has led Christians into all kinds of confusion.
No discipline is more sorely needed in the contemporary church than expositional biblical teaching. Too many have bought the lie that doctrine is something abstract and threatening, unrelated to daily life.
It is in vogue to substitute psychology and spoon-fed application for doctrinal substance, while demeaning theological and expositional ministry.
But the pastor who turns away from preaching sound doctrine abdicates the primary responsibility of an elder: "holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, that he may be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict" (Titus 1:9).
Practical insights, gimmicks, and illustrations mean little if they're not attached to divine principles. There's no basis for godly behavior apart from the truth of God's Word.
There are only three options: We teach truth, error, or nothing at all.
Before the preacher asks anyone to perform a certain duty, he must first deal with doctrine. He must develop his message around theological themes and draw out the principles of the texts. Then the truth can be applied.
Romans provides the clearest biblical example. Paul didn't give any exhortation until he had given eleven chapters of theology.
He scaled incredible heights of truth, culminating in 11:33-36: "Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who became His counselor? Or who has first given Him that it might be paid back to Him again? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen."
Then in chapter 12, he turned immediately to the practical consequences of the doctrine of the first 11 chapters. No passage in Scripture captures the Christian's responsibility to the truth more clearly than Romans 12:1-2. There, building on eleven chapters of profound doctrine, Paul calls each believer to a supreme act of spiritual worship-giving oneself as a living sacrifice. Doctrine gives rise to dedication to Christ, the greatest practical act. And the remainder of the book of Romans goes on to explain the many practical outworkings of one's dedication to Christ.
Paul followed the same pattern in Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and 1 Thessalonians. The doctrinal message came first. Upon that foundation he built the practical application, making the logical connection with the word therefore (Rom. 12:1; Gal. 5:1; Eph. 4:1; Phil. 2:1) or then (Col. 3:1; 1 Thess. 4:1).
True doctrine transforms behavior as it is woven into the fabric of everyday life. But it must be understood if it is to have its impact. The real challenge of the ministry is to dispense the truth clearly and accurately. Practical application comes easily by comparison.
No believer can apply truth he doesn't know. Those who don't understand what the Bible really says about marriage, divorce, family, child-rearing, discipline, money, debt, work, service to Christ, eternal rewards, helping the poor, caring for widows, respecting government, and other teachings won't be able to apply it.
Those who don't know what the Bible teaches about salvation cannot be saved. Those who don't know what the Bible teaches about holiness are incapable of dealing with sin. Thus they are unable to live fully to their own blessedness and God's glory.
The nucleus of all that is truly practical is sown up in the teaching of Scripture. We don't make the Bible relevant; it is inherently so, simply because it is God's Word. And after all, how can anything God says be irrelevant?
Monday, June 22, 2009
Quote of the Day
We talk a lot about worship being 24/7...I found this quote very helpful.
“The best public worship is that which produces the best private Christianity.”
“The best public worship is that which produces the best private Christianity.”
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Happy Father's Day
I want to wish my dad a Happy Father's Day. He has been a great dad. He has taught me so much about life. His work ethic and his pursuit of excellence are just a couple of the qualities I appreciate about him.
One of my favorite things is getting to play a round of golf with him.
Dad have a great day! I love and appreciate you very much.
One of my favorite things is getting to play a round of golf with him.
Dad have a great day! I love and appreciate you very much.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Vacation
My favorite week of the year............vacation with Debbie. It's time for our annual trip to Arkansas and Missouri to play non-stop marathon golf for 5 days.
We will leave after church on Sunday and head south to Eureka Springs to set up camp for a few days. We will play golf at our favorite course at Berryville, Arkansas. Our one day record is 64 holes. Not sure if we can break it, but we will give it a good try.
When you go south you have to check out three great places to eat; AQ Chicken in Springdale, Bubba's BBQ in Eureka Springs and Catfish Wharf in Harrison. Good southern cooking.
We hope to play a course in the Branson area as well.
We will leave after church on Sunday and head south to Eureka Springs to set up camp for a few days. We will play golf at our favorite course at Berryville, Arkansas. Our one day record is 64 holes. Not sure if we can break it, but we will give it a good try.
When you go south you have to check out three great places to eat; AQ Chicken in Springdale, Bubba's BBQ in Eureka Springs and Catfish Wharf in Harrison. Good southern cooking.
We hope to play a course in the Branson area as well.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Scripture for the Day
I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the LORD better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God. For the LORD heareth the poor, and despiseth not his prisoners. Let the heaven and earth praise him, the seas, and every thing that moveth therein. For God will save Zion, and will build the cities of Judah: that they may dwell there, and have it in possession.
Psalm 69:30-35
Psalm 69:30-35
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
The Move
We made it to Columbus on Saturday with the help of our parents, Brian-Allison, Mike-Doreen-Emma and Diana. They were a great help as we unloaded two 26 foot trucks, an 8x12 trailer, two pickups and three vehicles.
The community and church has welcomed us with open arms and we have enjoyed meeting several individuals.
We have boxes everywhere but the place is beginning to take shape.
We might have some possibilities on our home in Osage City. Please continue to pray for the sale of our home. I sure want Debbie to stay with me in Columbus this fall.
Thank you Troy, Andy, Herb and Brian on helping us pack the trucks on Friday in Osage City. You guys are very special.
The community and church has welcomed us with open arms and we have enjoyed meeting several individuals.
We have boxes everywhere but the place is beginning to take shape.
We might have some possibilities on our home in Osage City. Please continue to pray for the sale of our home. I sure want Debbie to stay with me in Columbus this fall.
Thank you Troy, Andy, Herb and Brian on helping us pack the trucks on Friday in Osage City. You guys are very special.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Blessing our New Home
"Bless This House"
Bless this house, O Lord, we pray,
Make it safe by night and day;
Bless these walls so firm and stout;
Keeping want and trouble out;
Bless the roof and chimney tall,
Let thy peace lie over all;
Bless this door that it may prove
Ever open to joy and love.
Bless these windows shining bright,
Letting in God's heavenly light;
Bless the hearth a-blazing there;
With smoke ascending like a prayer;
Bless the ones who dwell within;
Keep them pure and free from sin;
Bless us all that we may be,
Fit, O Lord, to dwell with Thee.
-Helen Taylor
Bless this house, O Lord, we pray,
Make it safe by night and day;
Bless these walls so firm and stout;
Keeping want and trouble out;
Bless the roof and chimney tall,
Let thy peace lie over all;
Bless this door that it may prove
Ever open to joy and love.
Bless these windows shining bright,
Letting in God's heavenly light;
Bless the hearth a-blazing there;
With smoke ascending like a prayer;
Bless the ones who dwell within;
Keep them pure and free from sin;
Bless us all that we may be,
Fit, O Lord, to dwell with Thee.
-Helen Taylor
Friday, June 12, 2009
Moving Day is Here
The day has finally arrived as we pack the moving van and head three hours south to our new home in Columbus. We pray it will be a uneventful weekend and one that goes well. We appreciate my parents, my brother Mike and his family, Brian and Allison helping us get packed up. Deb's parents and sister will meet us in Columbus on Saturday to help get things unpacked. We hope to have a large Carriger group at church on Sunday in Columbus. More about the move later...........
Thursday, June 11, 2009
My Last Day as an Indian
What do you do on your last day as a Osage City Indian? I plan on walking the halls up at the school and think about the positive things that have taken place. Individuals that have made a huge impact on my life. I will spend some extra time in the old high school where I walked the halls for 6 years as principal. If those walls could talk what stories they could tell. The picture above was taken 17 years ago my first day as high school principal here in Osage City. Thank you Osage for 17 great years...............................
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Thought for the Day
This week marks the 54th anniversary of the invention of the credit card.
Before that, people practiced something called "living within their means"
a foolish, foolish, outmoded way of life.
Jay Leno
Before that, people practiced something called "living within their means"
a foolish, foolish, outmoded way of life.
Jay Leno
Monday, June 08, 2009
Central Says Goodbye
The Central Church of Christ had a going away reception for us last night. It was a sad time as we said goodbye to many great friends that we love very dearly. We will miss the 300 family members that meet at the corner of Huntoon and College in Topeka. Thank you for richly blessing us over the past 8 years.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Closing Today
We travel today to Columbus to close on our new home. Excited to be moving one week from today. I guess we better start packing?
Thursday, June 04, 2009
I Can See
One of the most precious gifts we have is sight. Being able to see the world that God has created. I have been amazed for the past four weeks watching Debbie has she has undergone her two cataract surgeries and her improved ability to see.
She has commented so often about how everything is so clear. Clear enough that she doesn't need glasses for her distance vision any longer.
That's how it is with our Christian walk at times. We get so busy, so tangled up in sin and ourselves that we are blind to the things that we are doing that can actually destroy our self.
Paul in Acts chapter 9 was a great example.
As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"
"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked.
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."
The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!"
"Yes, Lord," he answered.
The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight."
"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."
But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."
Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Acts 9:3-19
When we begin that relationship with Christ we become a new creature. All of the old is gone. And we really do see things differently. We see that love is better than hatred. We see that God has a plan for all mankind and life is truly more enjoyable if we trust in His ways over our own.
She has commented so often about how everything is so clear. Clear enough that she doesn't need glasses for her distance vision any longer.
That's how it is with our Christian walk at times. We get so busy, so tangled up in sin and ourselves that we are blind to the things that we are doing that can actually destroy our self.
Paul in Acts chapter 9 was a great example.
As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"
"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked.
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."
The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!"
"Yes, Lord," he answered.
The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight."
"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."
But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."
Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Acts 9:3-19
When we begin that relationship with Christ we become a new creature. All of the old is gone. And we really do see things differently. We see that love is better than hatred. We see that God has a plan for all mankind and life is truly more enjoyable if we trust in His ways over our own.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Thank You Osage City
The past few weeks have been some of the best and most difficult weeks Debbie and I have experienced. Excitement for new beginnings but sadness for the ending of a chapter in our lives.
We have been very blessed to live in Osage City for the past 17 years. The years went by very quickly as we worked and lived school. It was a great life being able to be associated with some great individuals and one of the best group of kids in the world. We will miss Osage but know you will continue to be a community that moves forward and one that places a emphasis on the kids living there.
Thank you for all the kind words, support, gifts, receptions, and luncheons you have honored us with the past few weeks. We will never forget your love and generosity.
We have been very blessed to live in Osage City for the past 17 years. The years went by very quickly as we worked and lived school. It was a great life being able to be associated with some great individuals and one of the best group of kids in the world. We will miss Osage but know you will continue to be a community that moves forward and one that places a emphasis on the kids living there.
Thank you for all the kind words, support, gifts, receptions, and luncheons you have honored us with the past few weeks. We will never forget your love and generosity.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
YP....Thanks for the Journey!
We had a great time Sunday night saying goodbye to our Young Professional Group at Church. Debbie and I had the privilege and honor ministering to these great young adults for the past 5 years.
We enjoyed a cookout and devotional at Bill and Diana Carriger's house on the lake. It was a beautiful evening.
I know God will continue to bless this group as they have definitely impacted us on our journey..............
Monday, June 01, 2009
Craig Back to NYC
We had a great time with Craig this past week. He was able to see our new home in Columbus and look around the community. He spent time with his grandparents in Oklahoma and spent time with Brian and Allison in Garnett.
He was ready on Saturday to board the plane and leave the small town of Osage City and head back to the big city.
It sure is quiet at home! Craig have a great summer.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thought for the Day
When confronted with a Goliath-size problem,
which way do you respond:
"He's too big to hit,"
OR, like David,
"He's too big to miss"?
which way do you respond:
"He's too big to hit,"
OR, like David,
"He's too big to miss"?
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Best Wishes
These three distinguished gentleman have been great to work with the past number of years. These are some of the best building principals you would ever want to have work with your kids and staff. I wish them the very best.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Craig Home
Craig arrived home on Saturday for a brief visit. He has a busy week planned seeing family and friends before he heads back to New York City on Friday evening. He will work in NYC all summer before beginning his junior year at FIT in August.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Last Day of School
Celebration Day at Osage City as we look back on the past 176 school days. Kids have a safe summer!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Quote for the Day
"A fault-finder is a person with a bad memory who never remembers the good,
or with a good memory who always remembers the bad."
or with a good memory who always remembers the bad."
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
The Last Week
The last week of school.
Kids favorite words....mom's worst nightmare!
I hope the last week is a positive and safe time for everyone. I have many last week type things that will be difficult as I transition to my new position. It will be a tough week saying goodbye to my 700 kids and 125 staff members that I care about and have enjoyed working with.
As one of my bus drivers stated last week..........we have sure enjoyed the ride!
Kids favorite words....mom's worst nightmare!
I hope the last week is a positive and safe time for everyone. I have many last week type things that will be difficult as I transition to my new position. It will be a tough week saying goodbye to my 700 kids and 125 staff members that I care about and have enjoyed working with.
As one of my bus drivers stated last week..........we have sure enjoyed the ride!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Waymon Tisdale
On Friday, a little piece of my heart was broken when a former star basketball player from the late 70's passed away from cancer at such a young age. Waymon Tisdale grew up playing basketball in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He played for Tulsa Washington High School and was a Street and Smith High School all American. I played against Waymon on three occasions during the 1979-80 season. He was a freshman, but the starting center for his team and I was the starting forward from Broken Arrow. We had some great battles. I knew he would be a great player, but nothing like the scoring machine he became at the University of Oklahoma. I will never forget his smile and his positive outlook on life. He was not only a great basketball player but a great human being.
Former Oklahoma great Tisdale dies at 44
May 15, 2009
Wayman Tisdale, a three-time All-American at Oklahoma who played 12 seasons in the NBA, has died after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 44.
Tisdale died about 8 a.m. Friday at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, hospital spokeswoman Joy McGill said.
After three years at Oklahoma, the 6-foot-9 Tulsa native spent 12 seasons in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns.
He first learned he had cancerous cyst below his right knee after he broke his leg in a fall at his home in Los Angeles on Feb. 8, 2007. His leg was amputated last August, but he had made several public appearances since then, including on April 7 at an Oklahoma City Thunder game.
After his basketball career, Tisdale became an award-winning jazz musician, with several of his albums making the top 10 on the Billboard charts. Last month, Tisdale learned he had been chosen for induction into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
In 1983, Tisdale became the first freshman to make The Associated Press' first-team All-America list, an honor he received again in 1984 and 1985. He averaged 25.6 points and 10.1 rebounds per game during his three seasons with the Sooners, earning Big Eight Conference player of the year after each season.
He still holds Oklahoma's career scoring record with 2,661 points and career rebounding record with 1,048. Tisdale also owns the school's single-game scoring mark, a 61-point outing against Texas-San Antonio as a sophomore, along with career records in points per game, field goals and free-throw makes and attempts.
Tisdale also played on the U.S. team that won the gold medal in the 1984 Olympic Games.
He went on to average 15.3 points per game during his pro career with the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns.
Tisdale's death was announced on the Oklahoma Senate floor Friday by Senate Majority Leader Todd Lamb, who led the Chamber in prayer.
"Whether you're a Cowboy or a Sooner, Oklahoma has lost a great ambassador," Lamb said. "He was a gifted musician, a gifted athlete and he just wore that well wherever he went."
Former Oklahoma great Tisdale dies at 44
May 15, 2009
Wayman Tisdale, a three-time All-American at Oklahoma who played 12 seasons in the NBA, has died after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 44.
Tisdale died about 8 a.m. Friday at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, hospital spokeswoman Joy McGill said.
After three years at Oklahoma, the 6-foot-9 Tulsa native spent 12 seasons in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns.
He first learned he had cancerous cyst below his right knee after he broke his leg in a fall at his home in Los Angeles on Feb. 8, 2007. His leg was amputated last August, but he had made several public appearances since then, including on April 7 at an Oklahoma City Thunder game.
After his basketball career, Tisdale became an award-winning jazz musician, with several of his albums making the top 10 on the Billboard charts. Last month, Tisdale learned he had been chosen for induction into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
In 1983, Tisdale became the first freshman to make The Associated Press' first-team All-America list, an honor he received again in 1984 and 1985. He averaged 25.6 points and 10.1 rebounds per game during his three seasons with the Sooners, earning Big Eight Conference player of the year after each season.
He still holds Oklahoma's career scoring record with 2,661 points and career rebounding record with 1,048. Tisdale also owns the school's single-game scoring mark, a 61-point outing against Texas-San Antonio as a sophomore, along with career records in points per game, field goals and free-throw makes and attempts.
Tisdale also played on the U.S. team that won the gold medal in the 1984 Olympic Games.
He went on to average 15.3 points per game during his pro career with the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns.
Tisdale's death was announced on the Oklahoma Senate floor Friday by Senate Majority Leader Todd Lamb, who led the Chamber in prayer.
"Whether you're a Cowboy or a Sooner, Oklahoma has lost a great ambassador," Lamb said. "He was a gifted musician, a gifted athlete and he just wore that well wherever he went."
Friday, May 15, 2009
Graduation Weekend
Graduation.
A time for change.
For many, an exciting time to look back on accomplishments and honors.
For some, missed opportunities.
For some, no graduation and no positive look towards the future.
Time’s about up. When I was a teacher, I would tell my senior history students that phrase many times during the last few weeks of school to remind them to get their semester projects turned in because time’s about up.
For the majority, students were well prepared and turned in everything looking forward to graduation day. But for a few, no hope, no aspirations, time was finally up.
Life is like that also. Time’s about up for all of us. I pray that we will use our time in a way to serve others and serve our God. Be in that relationship that you need to be in with your God, your spouse, your family, your business associates, your friends so you won't be disappointed on that special day.
A time for change.
For many, an exciting time to look back on accomplishments and honors.
For some, missed opportunities.
For some, no graduation and no positive look towards the future.
Time’s about up. When I was a teacher, I would tell my senior history students that phrase many times during the last few weeks of school to remind them to get their semester projects turned in because time’s about up.
For the majority, students were well prepared and turned in everything looking forward to graduation day. But for a few, no hope, no aspirations, time was finally up.
Life is like that also. Time’s about up for all of us. I pray that we will use our time in a way to serve others and serve our God. Be in that relationship that you need to be in with your God, your spouse, your family, your business associates, your friends so you won't be disappointed on that special day.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Osage City USD 420 Selects New Superintendent
This past week the USD 420 Board of Education interviewed candidates for the Superintendent of Schools position. It's now official, the Board hired William Orth as the new Superintendent of Schools. Mr. Orth is currently superintendent at Altoona-Midway.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Storms Hit Southeast Kansas
On Friday morning a strong storm packed with 129 per hour winds did considerable damage to the Columbus area.
Several homes and businesses sustained considerable damage. Several school buildings received damage.
This is the article from the Joplin Globe:
No injuries reported in Cherokee County after storm
By Roger McKinney
rmckinney@joplinglobe.com
COLUMBUS, Kan. — A heap of debris was all that remained of a mobile home struck by high winds in Friday’s storm as it moved south of Columbus.
Richard Green, who lives nearby, owns the mobile home. He said the occupant wasn’t home when the storm struck.
“He went to work early, or he would’ve been in it,” Green said. He said he rode the storm out in Chetopa, where he was when it came through. He mentioned casually that he had previous experience with bad storms. Julie Green, his wife at the time, died in a 2003 tornado.
There were no storm-related injuries in Cherokee County, said Sheriff David Groves.
Dana Hilderbrand had walked with her youngest son Friday morning to the school-bus stop. When the storm’s intensity increased, they walked back to their mobile home, next to Faulkner Grain.
Once they were inside the mobile home, one of the large, metal grain bins blew loose, striking the glass door and entering their kitchen. The mobile home was moved about two inches off its foundation while she, her husband and her two children were home.
“It was just a weird storm,” Hilderbrand said. “We didn’t think it would be this bad.”
Hilderbrand joked that the only time Faulkner has as much traffic as it did Friday was during harvest.
Several businesses in downtown Columbus were damaged by the storm. Roof material and bricks were hanging from the top of a row of buildings on the north side of Maple Street, which is home to Columbus Tae Kwon Do and the offices of Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services.
Sherry Conner, Westco manager, had the help of several friends sweeping glass from the broken front window on the sidewalk on the south side of Maple street. Conner said the broken glass damaged some of the furniture, lamps and other accessories.
She said the business would be open today, if electricity was restored.
Just south of Westco, John White, owner of White’s Garage and Welding, was waiting for the insurance adjuster. The wind had peeled the metal roof off the building.
“I’ve got one car in there I need to get out,” he said.
Several other businesses had broken windows.
The press box at the Columbus High School football stadium had toppled onto the bleachers. Campers were damaged at H&K Camper Sales.
In Galena, a tree uprooted by the storm had landed on the front porch of a house along Seventh Street. Another tree also was uprooted nearby.
Sheriff David Groves said other damage to houses and buildings was reported in Scammon and Weir. He said Southeast Kansas Railroad had reported that the wind had blown a train off the tracks in the northern part of the county.
Crawford County
According to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department, the communities of McCune and Cherokee sustained some of the worst damage in that county. In McCune, 63 buildings were damaged. A semi-truck sitting in a parking lot was blown over and the driver sustained minor injuries.
In Cherokee, 130 structures were damaged, including the roof of Southeast High School.
Another 20 structures in the county also were damaged.
The preliminary damage estimate for the county came to $1.1 million, according to the sheriff’s department.
Emergency shelters have been set up at the McCune Community Center, 410 E. 5th St., and the First Baptist Church in Cherokee, in the 200 block of Vine St. The Salvation Army also will provide lunch today at both shelters for community members and volunteers.
Several homes and businesses sustained considerable damage. Several school buildings received damage.
This is the article from the Joplin Globe:
No injuries reported in Cherokee County after storm
By Roger McKinney
rmckinney@joplinglobe.com
COLUMBUS, Kan. — A heap of debris was all that remained of a mobile home struck by high winds in Friday’s storm as it moved south of Columbus.
Richard Green, who lives nearby, owns the mobile home. He said the occupant wasn’t home when the storm struck.
“He went to work early, or he would’ve been in it,” Green said. He said he rode the storm out in Chetopa, where he was when it came through. He mentioned casually that he had previous experience with bad storms. Julie Green, his wife at the time, died in a 2003 tornado.
There were no storm-related injuries in Cherokee County, said Sheriff David Groves.
Dana Hilderbrand had walked with her youngest son Friday morning to the school-bus stop. When the storm’s intensity increased, they walked back to their mobile home, next to Faulkner Grain.
Once they were inside the mobile home, one of the large, metal grain bins blew loose, striking the glass door and entering their kitchen. The mobile home was moved about two inches off its foundation while she, her husband and her two children were home.
“It was just a weird storm,” Hilderbrand said. “We didn’t think it would be this bad.”
Hilderbrand joked that the only time Faulkner has as much traffic as it did Friday was during harvest.
Several businesses in downtown Columbus were damaged by the storm. Roof material and bricks were hanging from the top of a row of buildings on the north side of Maple Street, which is home to Columbus Tae Kwon Do and the offices of Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services.
Sherry Conner, Westco manager, had the help of several friends sweeping glass from the broken front window on the sidewalk on the south side of Maple street. Conner said the broken glass damaged some of the furniture, lamps and other accessories.
She said the business would be open today, if electricity was restored.
Just south of Westco, John White, owner of White’s Garage and Welding, was waiting for the insurance adjuster. The wind had peeled the metal roof off the building.
“I’ve got one car in there I need to get out,” he said.
Several other businesses had broken windows.
The press box at the Columbus High School football stadium had toppled onto the bleachers. Campers were damaged at H&K Camper Sales.
In Galena, a tree uprooted by the storm had landed on the front porch of a house along Seventh Street. Another tree also was uprooted nearby.
Sheriff David Groves said other damage to houses and buildings was reported in Scammon and Weir. He said Southeast Kansas Railroad had reported that the wind had blown a train off the tracks in the northern part of the county.
Crawford County
According to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department, the communities of McCune and Cherokee sustained some of the worst damage in that county. In McCune, 63 buildings were damaged. A semi-truck sitting in a parking lot was blown over and the driver sustained minor injuries.
In Cherokee, 130 structures were damaged, including the roof of Southeast High School.
Another 20 structures in the county also were damaged.
The preliminary damage estimate for the county came to $1.1 million, according to the sheriff’s department.
Emergency shelters have been set up at the McCune Community Center, 410 E. 5th St., and the First Baptist Church in Cherokee, in the 200 block of Vine St. The Salvation Army also will provide lunch today at both shelters for community members and volunteers.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mothers Day
Dedicated to the greatest mom in all the world. I Love you!
Mom, I loved you yesterday, I love you tomorrow and everyday. You were there for me my first day of school, to hold my hand and give me courage to go.You listened to me when I needed to talk, you talked to me when I needed to listen. You let me grow and learn from my own mistakes.You never left my side when I was feeling down, I knew you would be there to pick me up.I wish there was a way I could repay all the things you have done for me, but there's nothing great enough to repay the greatest mother of all.
Mom, I loved you yesterday, I love you tomorrow and everyday. You were there for me my first day of school, to hold my hand and give me courage to go.You listened to me when I needed to talk, you talked to me when I needed to listen. You let me grow and learn from my own mistakes.You never left my side when I was feeling down, I knew you would be there to pick me up.I wish there was a way I could repay all the things you have done for me, but there's nothing great enough to repay the greatest mother of all.
Happy Mother's Day!
Friday, May 08, 2009
Our New Home in Columbus
We officially signed the contract on our new home in Columbus this past week. It's a 4 bedroom/3 bath home with a huge family room and office area. It will be a great place for our family gatherings and having friends visit. It sits on the end of a dead end street with a 80 acre pasture to the south. We have about a half acre lot with several trees and flower beds. We hope to call it home around June 13.
We would appreciate your continued prayers as we try to sell our house in Osage City.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
The Flint Hills
I will miss my monthly trips to Wichita and the beautiful changing scenery of the Flint Hills. I believe its one of the most scenic trips in America as you drive the Kansas Turnpike.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Osage City Superintendent Interviews
Today begins the superintendent interviews for Osage City. I'm excited for the school and community as they select a new educational leader. Be praying for our board to select the best possible candidate. The plan is to have someone in place by the weekend.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Reception
On Sunday we had a great time hosting a reception for Brian and Allison at the Central Church of Christ in Topeka. With the wedding being held in Texas we wanted to have a reception for them with all of our Kansas friends that couldn't make the long trip south during February.
We had a great turnout with friends from Kansas City, Ottawa, Conway Springs, Wellington, Osage City and of course our church family from Topeka. We saw friends that we haven't seen in years.
Allison and Brian enjoyed meeting people and hearing stories about the past.
Thank you to all who made the day so special.
A big thank you to Herb for taking all the pictures. It made the occasion very special.
We had a great turnout with friends from Kansas City, Ottawa, Conway Springs, Wellington, Osage City and of course our church family from Topeka. We saw friends that we haven't seen in years.
Allison and Brian enjoyed meeting people and hearing stories about the past.
Thank you to all who made the day so special.
A big thank you to Herb for taking all the pictures. It made the occasion very special.
Monday, May 04, 2009
8 Wonders of Kansas Cuisine
The Kansas Sampler Foundation in Inman has announced its 24 finalists for the 8 Wonders of Kansas Cuisine, and voting is now open.
Director Marci Penner said the finalists, which includes Homer’s Drive Inn in Leavenworth, were chosen because they collectively represent all that Kansas has been in the past and what it still is today.
“If someone dropped in to Kansas on a parachute and went to every one of these 24 restaurants, they would know our history and people pretty well by the time they waddled back home,” she said.
The 8 Wonders of Kansas Cuisine is the fourth out of eight rural culture element contests the Kansas Sampler Foundation will sponsor. Winners in architecture, art and commerce have already been chosen, with the Moon Marble Company of Bonner Springs earning a spot in the 8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce category. The next four contests will be those in the customs, geography, history and people categories. An overall 8 Wonders of Kansas contest was also held and winners were announced on Kansas Day of last year.
To be a finalist in the 8 Wonders of Kansas Cuisine, each restaurant had to originate in Kansas and it had to have been open for at least 10 years. Other criteria included that it couldn’t be a national franchise and that it had to be well known outside of its home base.
In alphabetical order, the 24 finalists are:
• Anchor Inn, Hutchinson
• Bobo’s Drive In, Topeka
• Brookville Hotel, Abilene
• Carolyn’s Essenhaus, Arlington
• Charlie’s Mexican Restaurant, Leoti
• Cozy Inn, Salina
• Crawford County Fried Chicken, located in four cities in Crawford County
• Crazy R’s, Goodland
• C.W. Porubsky’s, Topeka
• Free State Brewing Company, Lawrence
• Fritz’s Union Station, Kansas City
• Grand Central Hotel, Cottonwood Falls
• Guy and Mae’s Tavern, Williamsburg
• Hay’s House 1857 Restaurant and Tavern, Council Grove
• Hibachi Hut, Manhattan
• Homer’s Drive Inn, Leavenworth
• Josie’s Ristorante, Scammon
• NuWay, Wichita
• Olive Tree Bistro, Wichita
• Paolucci’s Restaurant, Atchison
• Pho Hoa, Garden City
• Prairie Nut Hut, Altoona
• Trapper’s Bar and Grill, Simpson
• WheatField’s Bakery, Lawrence
Voting, which will close at midnight June 15, can be done by paper ballot or via e-mail at 8wonders.org. Each person voting by e-mail may vote up to three times, but must vote for eight different places each time. For more information, visit kansassampler.org/8wonders.
Director Marci Penner said the finalists, which includes Homer’s Drive Inn in Leavenworth, were chosen because they collectively represent all that Kansas has been in the past and what it still is today.
“If someone dropped in to Kansas on a parachute and went to every one of these 24 restaurants, they would know our history and people pretty well by the time they waddled back home,” she said.
The 8 Wonders of Kansas Cuisine is the fourth out of eight rural culture element contests the Kansas Sampler Foundation will sponsor. Winners in architecture, art and commerce have already been chosen, with the Moon Marble Company of Bonner Springs earning a spot in the 8 Wonders of Kansas Commerce category. The next four contests will be those in the customs, geography, history and people categories. An overall 8 Wonders of Kansas contest was also held and winners were announced on Kansas Day of last year.
To be a finalist in the 8 Wonders of Kansas Cuisine, each restaurant had to originate in Kansas and it had to have been open for at least 10 years. Other criteria included that it couldn’t be a national franchise and that it had to be well known outside of its home base.
In alphabetical order, the 24 finalists are:
• Anchor Inn, Hutchinson
• Bobo’s Drive In, Topeka
• Brookville Hotel, Abilene
• Carolyn’s Essenhaus, Arlington
• Charlie’s Mexican Restaurant, Leoti
• Cozy Inn, Salina
• Crawford County Fried Chicken, located in four cities in Crawford County
• Crazy R’s, Goodland
• C.W. Porubsky’s, Topeka
• Free State Brewing Company, Lawrence
• Fritz’s Union Station, Kansas City
• Grand Central Hotel, Cottonwood Falls
• Guy and Mae’s Tavern, Williamsburg
• Hay’s House 1857 Restaurant and Tavern, Council Grove
• Hibachi Hut, Manhattan
• Homer’s Drive Inn, Leavenworth
• Josie’s Ristorante, Scammon
• NuWay, Wichita
• Olive Tree Bistro, Wichita
• Paolucci’s Restaurant, Atchison
• Pho Hoa, Garden City
• Prairie Nut Hut, Altoona
• Trapper’s Bar and Grill, Simpson
• WheatField’s Bakery, Lawrence
Voting, which will close at midnight June 15, can be done by paper ballot or via e-mail at 8wonders.org. Each person voting by e-mail may vote up to three times, but must vote for eight different places each time. For more information, visit kansassampler.org/8wonders.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Buffets
One of the worst movies ever has some great quotes. The buffet scene is a classic. Makes your stomach turn! Enjoy this scene. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7r2_STF8oo
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Transition Update
It has been a while since we updated our friends on our transition and move to Columbus in June. We made a trip to Columbus this past Friday to look at the house that we are interested in buying. We placed our house with Century 21 on April 13.
We have been busy packing, doing small home improvement projects and taking care of end of the year school transition items.
Osage City has scheduled superintendent interview dates for May 6-8. It will be an exciting process for the community.
Continue to pray for our move and God leading the right person to Osage City to be their next educational leader.
We have been busy packing, doing small home improvement projects and taking care of end of the year school transition items.
Osage City has scheduled superintendent interview dates for May 6-8. It will be an exciting process for the community.
Continue to pray for our move and God leading the right person to Osage City to be their next educational leader.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A Great Sunday
On Sunday we enjoyed worshipping at the Emporia Ave Church in Wichita. This is a very special place where Debbie and I worshipped for 5 years when we lived in Wichita.
It was great seeing good friends like the Phelps, Parkeys, Duncans, Burketts.............The memories are priceless.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Have A Favorite Baseball Player?
He was my favorite baseball player of all time. Growing up I tried to pitch just like him. Dave McNally was was one of the best pitchers in all of baseball during the 60's and early 70's. He was on two World Championship Teams and was a very humble individual. Back when I collected baseball cards I had every card of his. Most were autographed by him.
Here is the information on one of the best pitchers not to make the Baseball Hall of Fame:
All-Star: 1969, 1970, 1972
The best left-handed pitcher in Orioles history.
McNally was born in Billings, Montana, on Halloween in 1942.
He signed with the Orioles in 1960, and made his major league debut on September 26, 1962, about a month before he turned 20 years old. It was a good one. McNally pitched one game, a late season start, and threw a two-hit shutout.
In 1963, McNally went 7-8 with a 4.58 ERA over 125 2/3 innings, and in '64, he was 9-11 with a 3.67 ERA in 159 1/3.
In 1965, at age 22, he started to get it together. McNally pitched 198 2/3 innings that season, going 11-6 with a 2.85 ERA (121 ERA+). The next year, he won 13 games with a 3.17 ERA, and won the clinching game of the 1966 World Series sweep of the Dodgers, outdueling Don Drysdale, who gave up a homer to Frank Robinson for the only score of the game. The Orioles threw 33 consecutive scoreless innings in that Series.
McNally battled injury in 1967, but came roaring out in 1968 with his best season, and one of the best seasons ever by an Oriole pitcher: 22-10, 1.95 ERA (150 ERA+), and 202 strikeouts. Again, like Mike Cuellar, that was the one and only time he would strike out 200 batters in a single season.
McNally regressed some the next three years, but he was still a fine pitcher, and won 20 games every season, including a career-high 24 in 1970. After the '71 season, McNally went 13-17 in 1972 and 17-17 in 1973, which was his second-best season by ERA+ (117) in a season where he pitched at least 200 innings. He was 16-10 with a 3.58 ERA in 1974, his final year with the Orioles.
He also hit a grand slam in game three of the 1970 World Series against Cincinnati, the only pitcher ever to hit a grand slam in a World Series game. He hit it off of Tony Cloninger, who once hit two grand slams in a game for the Braves.
McNally was traded by the Orioles to Montreal on December 4, 1974, which netted the Orioles one season of Mike Torrez and a decade of Ken Singleton. A great trade for Baltimore, as McNally pitched just 77 1/3 innings with a 5.24 ERA and retired at age 32. Interestingly, McNally and Andy Messersmith became baseball's first two legal free agents. Messersmith signed a big deal with the Braves, and McNally simply walked away from the game at age 32. Both had played the 1975 season without contracts.
Dave McNally passed away on December 1, 2002, at the age of 60, in his hometown of Billings, Montana.
FRANCHISE RANKINGS4th, ERA (3.18, min. 800 innings and being a starter)9th, adjusted ERA+ (107, same qualification)2nd, Wins (181)5th, W/L Pct. (.616)4th, Games Pitched (412)2nd, Innings Pitched (2652 2/3)3rd, Strikeouts (1476)3rd, Complete Games (120)2nd, Shutouts (33)
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Communion
When you take communion next, consider the following:
As you break the bread remember how religion broke Jesus.
If he would have chosen to remain whole we would have no one to save us.
He is the bread of life.
We are called to follow in his steps.
We each have him in our system because he was broken down into Spirit form.
His body was crushed like grapes.
In following him, we cannot be effective unless we yield to being treated as bread and grapes; picked apart and crushed.
Much of religion is for the followers of man-rules.
Christianity is for the followers of the Suffering Servant.
The standard for world evangelism is formulated through communion. Broken and squeezed of our own recognition, we are to be willingingly/voluntarily torn apart with the hope others will remember our God as they dismantle us through criticism, avoidance, and painful judgment.
Terry Rush
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Passing the Torch
My Final Charge this past Sunday night to the Young Professional Group at Central as Kevin and Kristen Johnston become the new ministry leaders..........................
I remember just a few short years ago Jeff and Santhi visiting with Debbie and I about participating in a very special ministry. Jeff and Santhi were about ready to move to New York City and they were seeking a new teacher for the Young Professional Class. Debbie and I prayed about it. We were asking God to give us a special ministry at that time and he did.
That torch was passed almost 5 years ago.
Joshua passed the torch of leadership to a new generation. Joshua’s final charge to that new generation is found in Joshua 23. Joshua knew that he would soon pass from the scene, and he was concerned for the new leaders that God would raise up to follow him. His words to them that day apply to each one of us today who desires to be the kind of servant God wants us to be. This passage is a reminder to us of what God cares about.
Joshua 23:1-19
1 After a long time had passed and the LORD had given Israel rest from all their enemies around them, Joshua, by then old and well advanced in years, 2 summoned all Israel—their elders, leaders, judges and officials—and said to them: "I am old and well advanced in years. 3 You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you. 4 Remember how I have allotted as an inheritance for your tribes all the land of the nations that remain—the nations I conquered—between the Jordan and the Great Sea in the west. 5 The LORD your God himself will drive them out of your way. He will push them out before you, and you will take possession of their land, as the LORD your God promised you.
6 "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. 7 Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. 8 But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now.
9 "The LORD has driven out before you great and powerful nations; to this day no one has been able to withstand you.
10 One of you routs a thousand, because the LORD your God fights for you, just as he promised. 11 So be very careful to love the LORD your God.
In these verses I want to focus on four principles:
· Give God all the credit
· Obey his Word completely
· Cleave to him only
· Love him more than anything else
The first principle is:
1. GIVE GOD ALL THE CREDIT
This principle is found in verse 3: “…You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you.”
The thing that impresses me throughout the book of Joshua is that Joshua was a man of tremendous humility. He was a leader who did not draw attention to himself. Joshua constantly centered the attention of the people on the CHARACTER of God, rather than his own personal CHARISMA. The important thing for Joshua was what God had done and what God could be trusted for, not what Joshua did. Joshua gave all his successes back to God as His accomplishments.
We need to learn this same lesson. It is often easy to begin our Christian lives giving God the credit. But as we grow older and as our accomplishments increase, our tendency is to forget the source of our strength, our abilities, and our achievements. But if we are putting God first we
will always reflect with humility that it is God who is responsible for all we are and have.
Let me mention something else that is very important: When you give all your successes back to God as His accomplishments—then you don’t have to be depressed and discouraged over the opinions and criticisms of other people. When you give all your successes back to God as His accomplishments through you, you are free from being demoralized by any superficial evaluation of failure in your life. Because you were not doing it to seek credit for yourself. You were doing it for the glory of God. Since it was all for Him and for His glory, the only judgement and opinion of your life that ultimately matters is the judgement and estimate and opinion of the Lord himself.
The SECOND PRINCIPLE is found in verse 6. “Be very strong; be careful to OBEY all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left.”
If you want to be successful in life…
2. OBEY GOD'S WORD COMPLETELY
In chapter 1 God commanded Joshua: “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8). This became most important in Joshua’s life. He committed himself to a life of obedience to the Law of God. Now he urges this same commitment on a new generation of leaders in verse 6: “Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left.”
What is it that most honors God and which God most delights to honor? Is God most honored by an eloquent profession of faith? No. Many have called Jesus “Lord, Lord” but have later fallen away and stopped serving him. Is God most honored by great natural abilities or talents? No. There are many who have had great abilities and talents but have wasted them on worthless goals. Is God most honored by an attractive appearance or a winsome personality? No. Saul stood head and shoulders above his countrymen. He seemed to have everything going for him. He was called by God, gifted by God, and anointed by God. But he failed miserably.
The true answer to the question “What most honors God and what does God most delight to honor is found in Samuel’s words to Saul after Saul had sinned: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams” (I Samuel 15:22). That’s the answer. The thing that most honors God and that God most delights to honor is OBEDIENCE.
If you want to be successful in life, immerse yourself in the Word of God, and live in uncompromising OBEDIENCE to it. Then you will experience God’s power and blessing on your life and ministry. There is no substitute for OBEDIENCE.
The THIRD key to spiritual success is found in verse 8…
3. CLEAVE TO THE LORD ONLY
“Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. But you are to CLEAVE to the LORD your God, as you have until now” (v. 7-8).
The term “CLEAVE” means to hang on tight, to stick like glue. The same word is used in Genesis 1 about the exclusive relationship between a husband and wife. Here we are called to trust God and not to trust any other resources but God.
Just as Israel had to constantly contend with the influence of the Canaanites and their gods, we also have many other philosophies of success in the world competing for our attention and trying to seduce us with false promises. There are many temptations, even when we're trying to do the Lord's work, not to rely on the Lord. There will be temptations to water down His word, to give up because of discouragement, or to pursue methods that are not pleasing to Him. But Joshua calls us to hold fast to the Lord. The promise is that as long as we are cleaving to the Lord in willing, practical obedience, God will honor what we do. This is true of an institution as well as an individual.
The FOURTH principle is found in verses 9-11: “The LORD has driven out before you great and powerful nations; to this day no one has been able to withstand you. One of you routs a thousand, because the LORD your God fights for you, just as he promised. So be very careful to love the LORD your God.”
The final principle of spiritual success found in these verses is:
4. LOVE GOD MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE
This is an intense call to self examination: Do I really love God more than anything? Do I love him more than my family, job and all my stuff?
One statement that I often remember someone telling me when I was young was to “Never love people more than you love the Lord.”
Jesus said to Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" (John 21:15-19.) Everything depends on that. As we grow more deeply in love with the Lord Jesus, everything else in our life will find its proper place. Relationships will work the way they're supposed to work. Loving him with all our hearts will result in spiritual success in the things that really matter from God's perspective.
So Central Young Professional Group let me leave you today with the same charge that Joshua gave to the new generation of leaders in Israel. If you want to be successful in life, it is laid out in this passage: Give God all the credit—give all your successes back to God as His accomplishments; submit yourself to His Word; stick to Him like glue in willing, practical obedience; and love him with everything you’ve got. As you do this you will find that God will do wonderful things in and through your life.
Debbie and I pass this on to you as Joshua did for those that he loved.
I remember just a few short years ago Jeff and Santhi visiting with Debbie and I about participating in a very special ministry. Jeff and Santhi were about ready to move to New York City and they were seeking a new teacher for the Young Professional Class. Debbie and I prayed about it. We were asking God to give us a special ministry at that time and he did.
That torch was passed almost 5 years ago.
Joshua passed the torch of leadership to a new generation. Joshua’s final charge to that new generation is found in Joshua 23. Joshua knew that he would soon pass from the scene, and he was concerned for the new leaders that God would raise up to follow him. His words to them that day apply to each one of us today who desires to be the kind of servant God wants us to be. This passage is a reminder to us of what God cares about.
Joshua 23:1-19
1 After a long time had passed and the LORD had given Israel rest from all their enemies around them, Joshua, by then old and well advanced in years, 2 summoned all Israel—their elders, leaders, judges and officials—and said to them: "I am old and well advanced in years. 3 You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you. 4 Remember how I have allotted as an inheritance for your tribes all the land of the nations that remain—the nations I conquered—between the Jordan and the Great Sea in the west. 5 The LORD your God himself will drive them out of your way. He will push them out before you, and you will take possession of their land, as the LORD your God promised you.
6 "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. 7 Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. 8 But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now.
9 "The LORD has driven out before you great and powerful nations; to this day no one has been able to withstand you.
10 One of you routs a thousand, because the LORD your God fights for you, just as he promised. 11 So be very careful to love the LORD your God.
In these verses I want to focus on four principles:
· Give God all the credit
· Obey his Word completely
· Cleave to him only
· Love him more than anything else
The first principle is:
1. GIVE GOD ALL THE CREDIT
This principle is found in verse 3: “…You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you.”
The thing that impresses me throughout the book of Joshua is that Joshua was a man of tremendous humility. He was a leader who did not draw attention to himself. Joshua constantly centered the attention of the people on the CHARACTER of God, rather than his own personal CHARISMA. The important thing for Joshua was what God had done and what God could be trusted for, not what Joshua did. Joshua gave all his successes back to God as His accomplishments.
We need to learn this same lesson. It is often easy to begin our Christian lives giving God the credit. But as we grow older and as our accomplishments increase, our tendency is to forget the source of our strength, our abilities, and our achievements. But if we are putting God first we
will always reflect with humility that it is God who is responsible for all we are and have.
Let me mention something else that is very important: When you give all your successes back to God as His accomplishments—then you don’t have to be depressed and discouraged over the opinions and criticisms of other people. When you give all your successes back to God as His accomplishments through you, you are free from being demoralized by any superficial evaluation of failure in your life. Because you were not doing it to seek credit for yourself. You were doing it for the glory of God. Since it was all for Him and for His glory, the only judgement and opinion of your life that ultimately matters is the judgement and estimate and opinion of the Lord himself.
The SECOND PRINCIPLE is found in verse 6. “Be very strong; be careful to OBEY all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left.”
If you want to be successful in life…
2. OBEY GOD'S WORD COMPLETELY
In chapter 1 God commanded Joshua: “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8). This became most important in Joshua’s life. He committed himself to a life of obedience to the Law of God. Now he urges this same commitment on a new generation of leaders in verse 6: “Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left.”
What is it that most honors God and which God most delights to honor? Is God most honored by an eloquent profession of faith? No. Many have called Jesus “Lord, Lord” but have later fallen away and stopped serving him. Is God most honored by great natural abilities or talents? No. There are many who have had great abilities and talents but have wasted them on worthless goals. Is God most honored by an attractive appearance or a winsome personality? No. Saul stood head and shoulders above his countrymen. He seemed to have everything going for him. He was called by God, gifted by God, and anointed by God. But he failed miserably.
The true answer to the question “What most honors God and what does God most delight to honor is found in Samuel’s words to Saul after Saul had sinned: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams” (I Samuel 15:22). That’s the answer. The thing that most honors God and that God most delights to honor is OBEDIENCE.
If you want to be successful in life, immerse yourself in the Word of God, and live in uncompromising OBEDIENCE to it. Then you will experience God’s power and blessing on your life and ministry. There is no substitute for OBEDIENCE.
The THIRD key to spiritual success is found in verse 8…
3. CLEAVE TO THE LORD ONLY
“Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. But you are to CLEAVE to the LORD your God, as you have until now” (v. 7-8).
The term “CLEAVE” means to hang on tight, to stick like glue. The same word is used in Genesis 1 about the exclusive relationship between a husband and wife. Here we are called to trust God and not to trust any other resources but God.
Just as Israel had to constantly contend with the influence of the Canaanites and their gods, we also have many other philosophies of success in the world competing for our attention and trying to seduce us with false promises. There are many temptations, even when we're trying to do the Lord's work, not to rely on the Lord. There will be temptations to water down His word, to give up because of discouragement, or to pursue methods that are not pleasing to Him. But Joshua calls us to hold fast to the Lord. The promise is that as long as we are cleaving to the Lord in willing, practical obedience, God will honor what we do. This is true of an institution as well as an individual.
The FOURTH principle is found in verses 9-11: “The LORD has driven out before you great and powerful nations; to this day no one has been able to withstand you. One of you routs a thousand, because the LORD your God fights for you, just as he promised. So be very careful to love the LORD your God.”
The final principle of spiritual success found in these verses is:
4. LOVE GOD MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE
This is an intense call to self examination: Do I really love God more than anything? Do I love him more than my family, job and all my stuff?
One statement that I often remember someone telling me when I was young was to “Never love people more than you love the Lord.”
Jesus said to Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" (John 21:15-19.) Everything depends on that. As we grow more deeply in love with the Lord Jesus, everything else in our life will find its proper place. Relationships will work the way they're supposed to work. Loving him with all our hearts will result in spiritual success in the things that really matter from God's perspective.
So Central Young Professional Group let me leave you today with the same charge that Joshua gave to the new generation of leaders in Israel. If you want to be successful in life, it is laid out in this passage: Give God all the credit—give all your successes back to God as His accomplishments; submit yourself to His Word; stick to Him like glue in willing, practical obedience; and love him with everything you’ve got. As you do this you will find that God will do wonderful things in and through your life.
Debbie and I pass this on to you as Joshua did for those that he loved.
Monday, April 20, 2009
On My Top 10 List to Play at Number 8
As every golfer Pebble Beach is a must. Since 1919, the exquisite beauty and unique challenge of Pebble Beach Golf Links has thrilled golfers and spectators alike. Pebble Beach is ranked #1 by Golf Digest.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
On My Top 10 List to Play at Number 9
Sand Hills Golf Club built in 1995 in Mullen, Nebraska is about 100 miles from civilization, but one of the top 50 golf courses in the United States. Built by PGA Golfer Ben Crenshaw its a private course where the members fly to North Platte and drive the 2 hour trip northward to one of the most remote parts of the mid-west.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
On My Top 10 to Play List at Number 10
Wolf Creek Golf Club in Mesquite, Nevada. A beauitful course. On my top 10 list to play someday. Many say it looks like the lunar surface of the moon.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Still
Easter morning in our YP Class we discussed something that we have lost that is very important that we need. The aspect of quietness. Quietness in our personal life as well as in our corporate worship time.
The following words are to a song called Still that I really enjoy. After looking at the words go to the youtube site below to see the video and hear the song.
Slow down today and enjoy listening to God!
Still
Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
Within your mighty hand
When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God
Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust-
When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God
Reuben Morgan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2aM4HUbzlo
The following words are to a song called Still that I really enjoy. After looking at the words go to the youtube site below to see the video and hear the song.
Slow down today and enjoy listening to God!
Still
Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
Within your mighty hand
When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God
Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust-
When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God
Reuben Morgan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2aM4HUbzlo
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter Sunday
Sunday's Coming, Rejoice in the Miracle of Easter!
It's Friday. Jesus is arrested in the garden where he was praying.But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. The disciples are hiding and Peter's denying that he knows the Lord.But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. Jesus is standing before the high priest of Israel, silent as a lamb before the slaughter. But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. Jesus is beaten, mocked, and spit upon. But Sunday's coming. It's Friday.
Those Roman soldiers are flogging our Lord with a leather scourge that has bits of bonesand glass and metal, tearing at his flesh. But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. The Son of man stands firm as they press the crown of thorns down into his brow. But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. See Him walking to Calvary, the blood dripping from His body. See the cross crashing down on His back as He stumbles beneath the load.I t's Friday; but Sunday's coming!
It's Friday. See those Roman soldiers driving the nails into the feet and hands of my Lord. Hear my Jesus cry, "Father, forgive them."It's Friday. But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, bloody and dying. But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. The sky grows dark, the earth begins to tremble, and He who knew no sin became sin for us. Holy God who will not abide with sin pours out His wrath on that perfect sacrificial lamb who cries out, "My God. My God. Why hast thou forsaken me?" What a horrible cry. But Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. At the moment of Jesus' death, the veil of the Temple that separates sinful man from Holy God was torn from the top to the bottom because Sunday's coming.
It's Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, heaven is weeping and hell is partying. But that's because it's Friday, and they don't know it but Sunday's coming.
And, on that horrible day 2000+ years ago, Jesus the Christ, the Lord of Glory, the only begotten Son of God, the only perfect man, died on the cross of Calvary. Satan thought he had won the victory. Surely he had destroyed the Son of God. Finally he had disproved the prophecy God had uttered in the garden and the one who was to crush his head had been destroyed. But that was Friday.
Now it's Sunday. And just about dawn on that first day of the week, there was a great earthquake. But that wasn't the only thing that was shaking because now it's Sunday. And the angel of the Lord is coming down out of heaven and rolling the stone away from the door of the tomb.
Yes, it's Sunday,and the angel of the Lord is sitting on that stone and the guards posted at the tomb to keep the body from disappearing were shaking in their boots because it's Sunday, and the lamb that was silent before the slaughter is now the resurrected lion from the tribe of Judah, for "He is not here," the angel says.He is risen indeed!
It's Sunday, and the crucified/resurrected Christ has defeated death, hell, sin and the grave.
It's Sunday. And now everything has changed. It's the age of grace, God's grace poured out on all who would look to that crucified lamb of Calvary. Grace freely given to all who would believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary, was buried and rose again.
All because it's Sunday
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday
And They Crucified Him
Mark 15:22-25 -- They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). Then they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. And they crucified him . . . It was the third hour when they crucified him.
1Cor. 15:1-3 -- Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Columbus Update
We made a quick trip to Columbus on Saturday with Brian and Allison. My mom and dad met us as well. We looked at a couple of additional houses in our search for our new home.
Please continue to pray for our transition, sell of our house and the transition that Osage City is now under going. I know my current staff is anxious and nervous about the search process for a new district superintendent.
Please continue to pray for our transition, sell of our house and the transition that Osage City is now under going. I know my current staff is anxious and nervous about the search process for a new district superintendent.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Central Moves Forward
The Central Elders asked me to introduce a special series of messages yesterday morning. The Elders will be challenging the congregation with a series of lessons this month on certain areas that they would like to see Central improve on as they move into the 101st year as a Church.
I appreciate these 5 men and the vision and love they have for Central Family.
I was asked to challenge the congregation in our worship and in the study of God's Word.
Here were my thoughts:
I appreciate these 5 men and the vision and love they have for Central Family.
I was asked to challenge the congregation in our worship and in the study of God's Word.
Here were my thoughts:
The month of April will be an exciting time for the Central Church. Not only will Central be celebrating its 100th Anniversary on the weekend of April 26, but our five Elders will be challenging us as a congregation with a series of special messages beginning this morning.
The Central Eldership has been in prayer over the past few months discussing the future, looking back at the past, and developing goals that they wish to see Central accomplish as we seek what Christ wants us to accomplish for Him in 2009 and beyond.
Central has achieved its past success because of two very important ingredients;
1. Prayer
2. Purpose
The spirit of involvement seems to be virtue in the history of this congregation, along with the characteristics of love, faith and biblical truth.
Emerson once said that "People only see what they are prepared to see."
This morning may God prepare us to see what He wants us to see as we begin to look at the future of the Central Church.
Proverbs says, "Without a vision the people perish." The Apostle Paul was unable to proceed in his ministry until he had a vision of a man from Macedonia calling him.
Peter had a vision that "God shows no partiality” and it changed his life. In this world in which we live today, the most vital churches are those that can clearly articulate how God is calling them into the future.
This is actually a very simple concept that only becomes complicated when the vision Jesus gave is blocked by human philosophies and traditions. Most people do not realize that Jesus has given us the vision for the church in clear, concise, and in an easy to understand format. Look at Jesus’ vision for the church in Matthew 28:18-20:
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
The Vision of the Church:
1. Jesus is the authority of the church.
2. Go into the world to make disciples.
3. Baptize them according to scripture.
4. Teach all to observe and obey everything that has been commanded.
5. The Lord is with us and guiding His true church every step of the way.
The primary reason the church exists is the same reason we as individuals exist – to bring glory and honor to God. That purpose is fulfilled through four basic functions:
Evangelism – reaching the world around us with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Discipleship – teaching individual believers to become less self-centered and more like Christ – to become imitators of Christ.
Fellowship – building relationships within the local church body and creating unity and love for each other with the goal in mind to fulfill Jesus’ great commission to make disciples of all people, teaching them to observe all things God has commanded.
Worship / Praise – acknowledging God for who He is and what He has done. We worship through song, communion, obedience and proclamation of His word.
After much discussion and prayer the Central Eldership have developed six areas of focus for 2009, that they will be sharing with us over the next few weeks, as we move forward into our 101st year as a congregation.
One of those areas that the elders have asked me to share with you briefly this morning is an increased Focus on God’s Word and Worship.
The increased Focus on God’s Word and Worship is very important as we begin to examine what we can do to as individuals and as a body as we develop and grow as a Christian and as a Church.
Worship should be a central part of the Church.
1. It’s a means of directing our attention to God and Christ.
2. It’s a means of increasing our devotion and dedication to our creator.
3. It’s a means of expressing our praise and thanksgiving.
4. It’s also a means of confronting our sinfulness with holiness from A Savior who died.
God’s Word is the source to help us accomplish the purpose of worship.
God’s Word should not only be a part of our personal daily study, but be a part of worship itself.
As we look ahead to the future what can we do to enhance our worship and allow God’s Word to be our number one source for all of our life’s answers.
Three things we need to remember as a congregation:
1. Our Worship to God needs to be heartfelt Praise
Psalm 57: 9-11
Our corporate worship should be a time we look forward to each Sunday. A time to lift up our hearts to the Creator of the universe. We need to put our entire being in to our worship time.
2. Our Worship must be God centered and Bible Based
2 Timothy 4:1-5
What does God’s Word say about worship. Plenty. He gives us directions on how he wants us to worship him.
3. Our Worship needs to be about Him and not about Us
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;bring an offering and come before him!Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness;
—1 Chronicles 16:29
Oh come, let us worship and bow down;let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!
—Psalm 95:6
But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
—John 4:23-24
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
—Romans 12:1
It’s not about our likes and dislikes it’s about giving Him what He deserves. The very best worship as possible.
As we are challenged by the elders during the next few weeks we need to remember that many good things have been accomplished in the past and much work has been done; but we cannot rest on what has been done or be content with the accomplishments that have occurred.
Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:13-14
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
In other words, the best is yet to come.
We worship and serve the same God today who:
· Parted the Red Sea and dried the ground for 2,000,000 to walk across.
· Completely covered Mt. Sinai with His glory and caused the mountains to shake.
· Caused the mighty walls of Jericho to crumble to the ground.
· Controlled famines, droughts, or years of plenty.
· Conquered hundreds of thousands of enemy soldiers by using only 300 Israelite volunteers.
· Sent fire from heaven to consume a sacrifice, the stone altar, and all the water in the trench.
· Miraculously caused a virgin girl to give birth to His Son.
· Empowered men to heal sick people and raise the dead.
· Raised Jesus Christ from the grave in victory over sin.
· Caused prison chains to fall from Paul’s wrist.
· Inspired a book that in unparalleled in the history of all literature.
· Created a church that has lasted 2000 years through persecutions and trials.
That same God is the God of the Central Church of Christ. The same God that we worship and read about in His Word. This same God can work his power in ways that words cannot begin to express.
But we must believe and expect that He will do so. We must step out in faith knowing God will shower Central with His continued blessings.
Remember the best days of the Central Church of Christ are yet to be lived as each one of us joins together in worship and in service to the glory of God.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Go Lady Sooners!
The University of Oklahoma Lady Sooners play Louisville today in the NCAA Basketball Final 4 from St. Louis. Go Lady Sooners!
Friday, April 03, 2009
Time Moves On
The older I get, the more I think about the past and those that have influenced me in my professional career and personal life. On Wednesday, I led a leadership seminar in Topeka on the Effective Superintendent and Board Relations. I spoke to about 30 principals who have the desire to some day become district administrators.
I remember as a building principal 20 years ago sitting through a seminar on the same topic. I thought I would never have to deal with the variety of subjects that were being presented on that day. Now I'm the old guy trying to encourage and pass a on few secrets that I have learned sometimes the hard way about working with a board of education, faculty, staff and community.
I have really been blessed over the years that I have had great boards. Not just good boards but great ones. Boards made up of individuals that have kept kids as the first priority.
I appreciate those lessons 20 years ago from my mentors about dealing with a board on a daily basis. It has helped me understand their viewpoints and hopefully have allowed me to become a better educational leader.
I remember as a building principal 20 years ago sitting through a seminar on the same topic. I thought I would never have to deal with the variety of subjects that were being presented on that day. Now I'm the old guy trying to encourage and pass a on few secrets that I have learned sometimes the hard way about working with a board of education, faculty, staff and community.
I have really been blessed over the years that I have had great boards. Not just good boards but great ones. Boards made up of individuals that have kept kids as the first priority.
I appreciate those lessons 20 years ago from my mentors about dealing with a board on a daily basis. It has helped me understand their viewpoints and hopefully have allowed me to become a better educational leader.
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We survived the Glenwood Canyon bike trail. It was unreal. Left at 10:30 drove into town at 3:45 . We hiked up a mountain, 1/2 mile st...
