A Must Read

If you have time please read this. It is incredible. True hero.

http://www.crossexamined.org/blog/?p=110

Memorial Day And My Commitment To My Children

I want to make a commitment today to Jonathan, Maddie, and any other children that God may bless us with (right Michelle??) to always remember the sacrifice that other Americans have made for our freedom.

Many of my family members fought in wars. Some even gave the ultimate sacrifice - their life. I am indebted to them for all they have done for me. So many gave their lives for my freedom. Men and women from all over our great nation laid their lives down for me.

As I watch many of the war movies on this weekend, it really makes me think. As I watch where the men prepared for the attack on Normandy, I bet I would be thinking, "I wonder how I'm gonna die." Not if, but how. That's got to be how they thought as they signed their GI contract to give their family money if they died in battle. They may have thought that, yet they willingly and obediently jumped out of planes, off boats, to the beaches to die for my freedom.

To all of those who have died I thank you - from the bottom of my heart. I also make a commitment to not take your death for granted and to pass on your legacy to my children that they may never forget what you have done. I will not let your death be in vain. I will fight also to protect my freedom now. Thank you for serving men and women, and thank you for your lives. You are truly great Americans!

"Fresh Wind Fresh Fire" Book Club Meeting....Online!

I know that many of you emailed me or talked to me about not being at the book club meeting last night. So, I thought that we could interact here. What did you think about the book overall? Pro's and con's? Agree/Disagree with parts? Let me know in the comment section. Interact with others as well.

Let's Put It To A Vote

During the summer's, for some reason, I like to do something different with my facial hair. I once tried to grow out my goatee as long as I could (inspired by christian music artist Charlie Hall, pictured to the right). Also, I joined the Astros in a playoff beard grown while they were in the playoffs. Change is good. I have had a goatee since I graduated college, and sometimes, I just need change. So, I thought it might be fun (more for you!) to put up a vote for this summer's FHC (facial hair contest). Also, whatever wins, I would love to be joined by any other men(sorry ladies) that would like to join me in this feat. So, without further ado, here are this summer's choices:

The Soul Patch (illustrated by TobyMac)
The soul patch says, "There's something deep inside, but you have to know me before I let you see the real me." It's a hidden mystery what is behind that soul patch, but you know that its something special.

The Chinstrap (aka the Chin Curtain)

The chinstrap beard says, "Check out my jawline. I'm strong and powerful. Don't mess with me." The only downside of the chinstrap is that it makes fat guys faces look fatter, trust me I know from experience. The chinstrap is the new full beard. It likes to keep things looking good, clean, and trim. It is worn mostly by hip hop artists.

The Fu Manchu (worn wonderfully by John Rich)
The Fu Manchu is a wonderful tool of fear. This must have started way back in the old school kung fu movie days, because all the scary guys who can beat you up with martial arts wear it. The Fu Manchu is worn by flat out scary people. It casts fear. It sends a message. Yet, at the same time the upside down U says, "I am really a nice guy and I can sing country music. Also, I look good on a horse or motorcycle."

Mutton Chops
The mutton chop was made famous by generals in the Civil War, but worn beautifully and majestically by the King - Elvis Presley. As you can see, one needs to have the accommodating flowing hair to make the ensemble complete, but it can be worn other ways. Mutton chops say, "I am a wonderful looking man, yet I am too scared to have hair all the way across my cheeks."

Full Beard (illustrated by Charles Spurgeon)
The full beard takes perseverance. When growing one out, one will be tempted to give up, to shave it off, to give up on the itchiness. But a real man will bear the pain. He will stand strong. He is intelligent. He's not worried if food gets caught in there. The beard keeps the man warm, keeps predators away, and shows strength and intelligence. The full beard says, "I am a manly man. I can do anything I want. I am smart. I will stay warm." (see also Sean Connery)

Not Making The List:

The Neck Beard
The neck beards were worn by a special group of young men when I was in college. They liked to wear sweats and polo shirts, play nerf wars with the Jesus statue, as well as other made up fantasy games. Because of these repressed feelings, the neck beard will not be allowed. Sorry.

The Standalone Mustache
This facial hair will not be available. Michelle does not allow it, so case closed. Sorry fire fighters and Chicago policemen, it's not happening this year!

So cast your vote and cast it with thought. Remember, you will be the one looking at it for a while so choose wisely. I can avoid mirrors if I have to. Have fun and happy voting!

What Will Bring Revival?

Baptist Press just released an article by one of my favorite SWBTS profs Dr. Malcolm Yarnell entitled "The Unchanging Relevance of Biblical Revival." You really must read this, it is an excellent, EXCELLENT article. Click here.

What is Twitter Anyways?

Here's an article from the NY Times to help and clear up any confusion. Click here.
Enjoy!

Don't Forget To Pray Tomorrow!

Just a quick reminder that tomorrow is the National Day of Prayer. If you can, please meet in the sanctuary at 7pm for a time of prayer for our nation, our community, and our church. It will be worth your time! The more prayer, the better!