Wednesday, November 21, 2007

A start of a new day

The fast is nearing an end. There is some excitement about the food we can all start eating again. But mostly I have a deep sense of gratitude to all of you for making this experience one of the best of my life. I feel a greater sense of community in the body of Real Life. It has been my heart's desire to be a part of a church that examples the first century church described in Acts chapter 2. 42-45

They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers. Everyone around was in awe—all those wonders and signs done through the apostles! And all the believers lived in a wonderful harmony, holding everything in common. They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person’s need was met. They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved.

My heart is filled with such thankfulness, that in my life I would have the privilege to be part of this church. I am starting thanksgiving early- not the food- but the thankfulness.

We are at a start of a new day at Real Life- whether you joined the fast are not - YOU ARE A PART OF REAL LIFE!!!! And God is doing a new thing! I believe many people who are far from God will be celebrating next thanksgiving, the joyful new life that only comes from a relationship with Christ.

May God be with you deeply in your hearts and minds tomorrow and may you be truly thankful. Remember you are not alone. God is with you and the Real Life family is with you.

We are starting a new day together.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

One with Christ.

Hi everyone, I can't wait for Sunday. I am struck with a thought this week, we have incredible power, We have the power to be one with Christ- it is the power of choice. God has given me a free will to do whatever I want, to live however I like, He doesn't MAKE me do anything. I choose to be with Christ.

During the fast I have drawn closer to God, it was me doing the moving. God was always close to me I just needed to choose him.

We are going to celebrate communion together tomorrow. A symbol of our oneness with Christ, a symbol of our decision to receive forgiveness that I, for one, so desperately need. Like Ric said in his devotional today, we thirst for him- long for him and when we seek, we find.

What power God has given us! See you tomorrow.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Thoughts about finding

God promises that when we seek him we will find him. What a promise!

I was reading about Phillip and the Ethiopian. He was seeking God and Phillip helped him find Christ. The man said "what prevents me from being baptised now" Phillip said "nothing" and he was baptized right then.

I have talked with a few people in the last week who are holding back from being baptized.
reasons like:
fear
uncertainty of their relationship with God.
never really thought about it.

Let me encourage everyone right now about baptism.
  1. It is a celebration about the new life we have in Christ.
  2. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to Christ (doing what he says to do)
  3. It is a great encouragement to others to seek, find, and trust God.

If you have made a decision to follow Christ or if you have come back to Christ then celebrate with baptism. There is a blessing waiting for you and all of RL church when you do.

Let me know if you want to celebrate with me on November 25th.

pastorjeff@seekreallife.com

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Bummer

My flight was delayed and I had to spend another night in KC - Bummer!
I slept only 2 hours - Bummer!
I miss my family - Bummer!
I am sitting in the Denver airport waiting for my connection to Portland - Bummer!
I have eaten very little in the last 2 days - BIG Bummer!

But..... I have a renewed fortitude deep in me from God, a peace that overcomes the bummers of any given day.

I love the web. I feel just as connected with you all even when I am far away and all alone (OK, I admit I am feeling a little sorry for myself) God is Good even in Denver.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Hello from KC

Sorry I haven't blogged in a few days. I am in Kansas City for some meetings and finding a little challenge on the fast- I have been hungry but I am sticking to it. The men at the meeting have been encouraging- and teasing me for my food choices. Cucumber and tomato salad. Yum.

Sunday was so great to worship together. God is teaching me to rely on him in every way. I can - if I am not careful- pick up things that God wants to carry... like church finances. I start to carry that and God reminds me He will provide- He always does. So I need to trust in Him and not my own strength.

I love hearing from everyone about their experience. We are in this together.

I've decided I want pancakes on the 22nd. No sense waiting to decide what I will eat first. But mostly I want to continue to eat healthy and live in God's presence all the time. I am not going back I want to fail forward to the new things God has for me.

Thursday, November 8, 2007

I'm Thinking

It has taken me all day to blog. I tried a couple of times but it just didn't work for me. I am deep in my message prep about our destiny is Christ. I thought a lot about it. The question of why kept coming back to me- how powerful it is when I can see the why for my life. Why am I hear? The direction and purpose for my life is right there for me but I have to take ownership of it. When I do, it changes my experience on this road of life completely, not the road but me on the road... how I look at life... how I live it, love it, do it. My soul longs for something that brings relevance to my life and my struggles.

It is like the fast- why sacrifice if it does not lead to anything? When we catch a glimpse of the life God has for us the hard stuff is still there but you do it with purpose and that changes the experience completely. Life is not mundane, life is exhilarating - a life of destiny.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

The sweet side of sacrifice



Fasting has its good days and its hard days. We are seven days into this and the newness has worn off, it is easy to say " I'm out" why do this? Let me answer that question

1. REMEMBER WHAT IS IMPORTANT, KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE GOAL- DRAWING CLOSER TO GOD.

2. If you need to make adjustments - make them but stay with it by sacrificing in some way. What we are doing is redirecting our focus on food to a focus on God.

3. Sacrifice is by nature difficult. We are striving and straining to reach a goal, we are not simply going with the flow but against it. There should be some struggle.

Together we are doing something counter culture- we are denying ourselves instant gratification, for something deeper- a closer relationship with God. Setting aside the good for the great.

We have 14 days to go. -WE CAN DO IT- If you have not been apart to date join in. Make whatever adjustments you need to that allows you to have a meaningful sacrificial approach to seeking God.


You have all been such an encouragement to me. Your honesty and transparency have been a blessing. God is moving in the lives of RL people.


Seek God and he will be found. Thanks for being on the journey together.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Why 21 Days?


I had this question yesterday: Why 21 days? Well there is no definitive answer to that. Here is my thinking...

It takes about 3 weeks (21days) to set a new habit. If our goal is to draw closer to God, not just now but continually, 21 days makes sense. In Daniel chapter 10, Daniel was waiting for a word from the Lord. So he fasted for 21 days before the Angel of the Lord could breakthrough to him. Do you need a breakthrough? I do. So it's 21 days for me and I did not want to go it alone. So that's how we came to 21 days.

Today I am preparing for Sunday -Destiny- God has a vision for each of us, a great destiny. He also has a destiny for us to live out as a church. To be relevant and life changing through the power of Jesus Christ in our community. It happens everyday one person at a time.

I have been over spicing my cooking. What do you do with a big pot of potato soup that tastes like a pepper mill? anyone? anyone?

Oh well. I will eat it anyway, but I might be the only one.

God thank you, I am closer to you today then I was last week, how wonderful it feels. My desire is a greater intimacy with you and you are meeting me right at the point of my need.

I have a lunch meeting today so finding a place to meet for lunch is a little tricky. But where there is a commitment there is a way.

I'm glad to be on this journey with you.

Monday, November 5, 2007

Monday, Monday


I could not blog on Sunday, the server was down for maintenance. Sunday was so wonderful for me. So many RL people are doing the Daniel fast. It's encouraging to be doing it together. I could feel the powerful presence of God as we worshipped together. I know God has so much power available for each of us when we seek Him.


Maggie had a rough night but I think we are on the mend now. I am spending the whole day at home(a rarity for me)


God, let me hear from you today, Restore my strength and my spirit. Help me leave the worries of life and the church in your hands today. You are in charge. I follow you. Amen


P.S steel cut oats are NOT worth the wait, I'm back to the regular stuff.

Saturday, November 3, 2007

Sunday's Coming


I am putting the finishing touches on my message while waiting for my oatmeal to cook (steal cut oats take 30 min hope it is worth it).


I have loved reading the posts on "My experience" thanks for sharing, it is very encouraging.


Tomorrow we look to God together for power. I am so aware of my weakness. It seems things can get so big in my eyes, it blocks my view of God.


God help me see you, help me release the power you have for me. Help me follow with wild eyed faith. Amen.


Got to go Oatmeal's done.

Friday, November 2, 2007

Day Two

It's all about TRUST.
This morning we took Maggie in to have her tonsils out. You know what a protective Dad I am. We had confidence in the doctor, we had prayed, but in the end you have to walk out of the room and TRUST. I can't take care of her I have to rely on others.
In the waiting room God spoke to me - Do you get it Jeff? This is like your life... you need to trust me and let me do what I am going to do.

Second day of the fast, and a lot of people talking about the food and coffee - I am with you brother!

I want to encourage everyone to journal - just to write your thoughts, prayers, and emotions.

Mike's comments on the my experience page made me think... God what do I want from you? God, I have questions.

During the 21 days I am seeking God and then the answers to the questions. I want greater intimacy with God.

Father, I want you more than food or coffee. Father, I trust you I trust my family to you, the church to you, my life to you.

Keep seeking
Thanks for doing this together.

Thursday, November 1, 2007

Day ONE

I'm sitting at the table eating my oatmeal. I have just read Faith's devotional. "Be strong and courageous" That's what I want. I also need a bigger God. It seems every time I really stretch and trust God in a big way, He gets bigger, but at the same time I am reminded that this is only the beginning. God is always bigger and bigger and bigger.

I love doing this together, Honestly I am not sure I could do it alone. Day one, what an adventure.

PS. still don't know what lunch is, we have to clean up from Neewollah - WOW what a great night! Thanks everyone for all your hard work we had over 500 attend. I'm random what can I say, by the way did anyone else see that second Jeff Guy!!

Monday, October 29, 2007

Ready to get going

I was really inspired by Mike's devotional today. It's cool to kinda see into how others connect with God. I need to go shopping for the Daniel fast. I know oatmeal and granola are going to be a breakfast hit. Lunch seems to be the hardest to jump on because I am so mobile. (I think we are doing family cooking) Maggie is really excited about the fast and is becoming a pretty good cook.

I luv that this is a shared experience! I have had four phone calls and three emails today about the fast - that is so cool. I talked to one person who is hosting a dinner party on Monday and having each family bring their favorite dish for the fast and then trading recipes... GREAT IDEA!

Shelley's home - I don't do well without her. All my prayers have been focused on her and what God wanted to do in and through her. God showed up in Alaska in amazing ways and lives have been changed for eternity. Praise God!

Today my thoughts and prayers have been for you, the people of Real Life. I feel so blessed to be surrounded by such authentic people - it's real and honest and I believe pleasing to God. I prayed today for God to take us to a higher place in Him. I asked God to help us trust him with reckless abandon and to open our eyes to the brokenness around us so we can offer just a little hope. Hope we find when we seek God.

Can't wait for tomorrow

Friday, October 26, 2007

Something to talk about


All week I have been talking to people at Real Life about the upcoming fast. There is a real excitement about what could happen. I believe we all have a deep desire to draw closer to God. This week I want to exlpore together our meaning in life. We all crave meaning, something to build a life on. Who are we, why are we hear? Questions that need answers. Seek and you will find.


Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Soul Cravings




I am reading a book called soul cravings...It talks about how every soul longs for intimacy.

I realized that is what I long for. That is what I am asking God for during this fast. Intimacy with HIM.
I can feel the craving deep in me. It almost feels like a hunger pain. I have tasted closeness with God and I want more...I want true, honest, raw intimacy with the Creator God. Sounds big to me but I am going to seek it with a new tenacity.

God promises if I seek I will find....I'm holding Him to it.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Preparing For Something Great

I am so excited about the fast we are going to do together. (of course I ate a cheeseburger and 2 cookies after church yesterday... just getting it out of my system) The real thing is seeking God. I can sense something amazing is just ahead. I see the obstacles in front me and easy excuses to make but I know God has something beyond my understanding waiting for me. So I am committed to do what ever it takes so I don't miss out.

Here we go together!!!!

Jeff

Thursday, October 18, 2007

SEEKING


Seeking - It's about discovery.
As a church we are going to seek together a closer life with God. We will seek God to discover our meaning in life, our power in life, and our destiny in life. I am so psyched about the coming weeks. What will happen when we draw closer to God? It's life changing. We will be going on a 21 day journey and I am so excited to share it with you. I tell you what- I will give you a hint - it is challenging, exiting, and very personal.
This Sunday I will begin to share with you what God has placed on my heart. This is going to be so absolutely amazing.

Monday, October 15, 2007

Blessing

Yesterday Was Great.
I had a hard day... my brain was running at about 40% but God always seems to make up the difference, well, all of it actually. Anyway I am living today blessed, holding on to all God has for me. I want to bless others this week. I received an email from someone at Real Life and I wanted to pass it on to you. I also want to challenge you to pray a blessing on others. We can change our world.

The prayer: Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and those that I care deeply for, who are reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your grace. Where there is need, I ask you to fulfill their needs. Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings. In Jesus' precious name. Amen.

Pray For the people in your life expecting God to work in their life because He will.

Livin Real, Livin Blessed
Jeff

Monday, October 8, 2007

Were you there?

Where you there? Did you see it? Did you sense it? God showed up- moving across the room touching peoples hearts- I know I sound kind of sappy but it is Monday and my brain is mush. But my hearts is still full. Thanks for praying with me. Thanks for opening up to livin REAL with God and each other. It's all the little things that make a difference.

Hang on Great things are coming!!!!
Jeff

Saturday, October 6, 2007

Pray

Will you pray with me? All of you. Will you be a front line attack squad for God tomorrow? God wants to do something through us and I don't want to miss out. So I pray. I'm at the church right know and I am praying over every seat that God would reach that person right where they are at in their everyday life with whatever they need from Him. Pray with me. Pray for me.
PRAY

Jeff

I'M READY!!!!

Are you ready?... For what... that's what you are thinking right? Me too!
I'm ready for God to do something amazing. I realized He always wants to do that but I am not always ready... or willing if I am honest with myself. But I'm ready... Ready to be fearless about my humanity, it doesn't make any sense to try to play games... I am flawed- deal with it. I'm ready to speak love fearlessly...I don't care how it makes me look or how people respond. I'm ready to trust recklessly.. with my money... the financial needs of the church.. the financial needs of hurting people in our church family and beyond. I'm ready for God to provide. I'm ready to open my heart to worship... to purely give my self to God- no judgements- I'm ready to live forgiven- all the way! - all the time!
I'm ready

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Sunday Can't get here quick enough

What a strange week this has been so many great " Moments"- You know I love moments- that sounds kind of girly I know but you get it right? Its about relationships with my wife, my Daughter Sarah at college, My daughter Maggie at home, old friends , new friends. new possibilities- they are just pieces that come together and form our lives.

Moments hurts sometimes- I have had that this week too.

I am excited about what God is already doing in my heart for this new series on the relationships closest to us-FAMILY- we all got em. I see with fresh eyes the monster difference He makes. it blows me away- I have come so far and have so far to go- just think of what could be. That's what I like best about hangin with God, He is all about hope and possibilities- with Him there are no limits. Even for my family- even when I can't see it, or even believe it....It can happen.. color me surprised. Can't wait to be together... Sunday can't come quick enough for me! Don't miss our.See ya there!

Monday, September 17, 2007

RL Family Camp 2007



What a great time! There is something about just getting away together, having some fun and eating a LOT of marshmallows. However, I think it is through the eyes of the kids that we see things the clearest. It is family camp- we as a church are a family. We all belong together, we all need each other, we are all unique and we fit together perfectly. I sat in my chair during the movie on Saturday night and simply thanked God for this wonderful place called Real Life. I am amazed at what God has done... but I am convinced that we are at the very beginning... the first steps of a great journey God has for us. Thanks to everyone for being such an awesome family to me.

Monday, September 10, 2007

Input


I had to Gas up my truck this week and I was trying to decide what to put in- I know Gasoline but what Grade? Regular? Premium? Super extreme? Should I use a name brand or just anything- just get the cheapest?

It made me think What goes in me? Food- thoughts- advice-.
I realized that everything has an effect. So i decided to try to pay attention to the input into my life.
I have been listening to Drive time devotionals on my ipod( you Can follow the link on the Real life homepage to listen with me. also I thought I would start sharing what books I am reading- now a disclaimer- I read a lot of books of all different styles but I don't always read the WHOLE book. I know that seems weird to some of you but...I'm weird. Right now I am reading "the Barbarian Way" by Erwin Raphael Mcmanus. The book is challenging me to unleash my faith- not play it safe,to live life out there on the edge, where faith is alive and vibrant.

Whats going in you? It's a good question.

Looking for whats Real and Finding Christ.
Jeff

Friday, September 7, 2007

ARE YOU READY FOR THE WIN?


Are you ready? Will you recognise the win when you get there? Seems simple enough doesn't it?

I think it really is simple, we just like to complicate things. In this life the WIN is simply being one with Christ.
It is life changing and it is amazing.

I was thinking the other day about how hard Jesus has fought to reach me. Everything he had to overcome to cut through my selfishness, my ignorance, my blindness to things of God? It didn't stop him a bit. He cut right though and found me. THAT'S THE WIN.

Cool isn't it?

I can't wait for Sunday

Jeff

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Off to College


I am in Nampa taking Sarah to college for her sophomore year. It seems like I was just bringing her home from the hospital yesterday. Life moves so fast. Just two years ago we started Real Life. Time races by. College is all about possibilities, opportunities to stretch and grow. I think this year is a time of real growth for Real Life -in fact I KNOW IT!!!!!! Oh the Joys that are in store for us!!! God is going to be using each of you in ways that you could never have imagined!!! I will miss you on Sunday, it is hard to be away.

God is at work all the time.

Livin real in Idaho

Jeff

Thursday, August 9, 2007

Boy's Camp

Having an amazing time at Boy's camp. At this place being a little crazy is normal. But in the midst of everything I see God deeply moving in the hearts of these young men. Who knows what God will do this week? I am just glad I get to be apart of it.

Livin real at camp

Jeff

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

God Is BIG


I love VBX. I love getting to play a cowboy. I love being a kid.
I love seeing the excitement that only children bring. I love seeing adults stretch themselves and allow God to use them.
I love seeing the awesome power of God's Word change lives.
I love seeing faithful people pray for no rain on Sunday and come ready to serve. God is BIG... He touches hearts. God is BIG... he overcomes doubts. God is BIG... He always exceeds my expectations.

Thanks to everyone who helped make this a BIG WEEK!
Thanks to every parent for the awesome privilege of being with your children.

God has BIG things in store for every one of those little lives... and for our lives too!

I guess Cowboy Carl will have to hang up his hat for another year.

I can't wait for Sunday!!!!!!!


God is real

Just Jeff

Thursday, July 12, 2007


I know I am a big Kid at heart but I love VBX.... We have been working late into the night prepping. Different people have been coming and going, helping in all kinds of ways-( we can always use more help.) What I like the most is to see the excitement that people have about the week. They know something special is going to happen. And it will!!!!!
Every year I see in the faces of kids the excitement when they hear how much God loves them. Many kids will hear it this year for the first time.

Are you excited!!! Are you expecting God to do something amazing?

Don't miss the moment to invite friends and neighbors. Maybe you need to change your work hours this week to drive kids to VBX? Whatever the sacrifice, the reward will be extreme.
The count down is on... I can't wait. God is doing something great!

Cowboy Carl (A.K.A. Pastor Jeff)

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Real Life is messy

How come when you order ribs they give you one of those wet wipe things but if you order a taco you are on your own?
Life is messy. Sometimes you can see it coming and other times it just ends up on your shirt. I think God is teaching me to not focus on the mess but on my reaction to the mess. Do I look to him to help or do I let my sticky mess get all over everything?
I am absolutely convinced that God can handle my mess.


I watched " Evan Almighty" with the family last night. One of the themes of the movie is that what God does - He does because he loves us. That's a powerful truth to remember when life lands on my shirt.

Livin Real
Jeff

Thursday, June 7, 2007

Penny for your thoughts


So how is your thought life this week? It seems that I have had to put forth a little extra effort this week but it has been worth it. When I think about God and his goodness to me my eyes seem to open to all kinds of positive things- good friends-family- my dog Sadie- a great church that lives an honest life before each other- no games- man that is huge for me. I feel I can be real with everyone, I don't have to put on a happy face if my day bites. More importantly I am encouraged to draw close to God.


We are planning some stuff in the coming weeks so we can just be together- picnic June 24th. I know this is easier for some then others but please make the effort. You can be a real blessing to others as well as making new friends. We really are in this together.


Livin REAL 24/7/365


Jeff

Thursday, May 24, 2007

Reminder to be real



Do you ever notice that the garage never stays clean? Every time I want to do something out there I have to clean up after myself first. I wish I could blame Shelley and the girls but the truth is 90% of the mess is mine. Oh well that's life.

This week I have been reminded that our lives are like my garage, they need constant attention to keep it functional, sometimes we like to pretend that things are better then they are and try to work in the midst of the mess - now that is a recipe for frustration and disappointment. I have tried this week to be real with God, telling him my frustrations and my disappointments - it feels good to be transparent with Him. But I am also learning that to be REAL requires action on my part. I have to do what I know to do... that sounds simple but it take purpose and effort. For me to be real is to be honest, transparent and active not passive. A new phrase at the Austin household is finish the task! When you start something do the whole job. God is really teaching me something here about my service to Him... I will let you know how that goes. I want to remind you to be real and be active with God. His blessings await all who seek him.


God is Good!

Jeff

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Deep Impact


I am starting a new series this week called Deep Impact. I have been impressed with how little things make such a big impact in my life, a word, an action, a look, for good and for ill! But it makes a difference. Life is not neutral- I mean everything has an impact. The question that comes to mind made me a little queasy- What impact am I having on the church, on my family, on my friends, on the people that I come into contact will- see what I mean- big question. I also see the impact God is having on me- little things creating deep change in my life. I am excited about exploring this together- see you Sunday- I'm sure it will have a deep impact.


Jeff

Friday, May 11, 2007

Sun's out




You might have noticed that bright orb in the sky- we haven't seen it in a while. Isn't it interesting how something so far away can effect (is it effect or affect I seem to always get it wrong) us in so many ways. People are out walking around, waving at the neighbors, or just sitting staring at the bright orb with there eyes closed. The sun makes us feel good. But just you wait, those same people will be complaining about how hot it is and when are we going to get some rain cause my lawn is dying? It is a close margin from cold to comfortable to hot.




I think how we treat each other is kinda like that. We can be too distant and cold or we can be overbearing and hot. But everyone, and I do mean everyone, is looking for the warmth of true love and friendship. I think maybe God wants RLCC to be like this nice spring day: warm and inviting - touching everyone. Well.... let your love shine for all the world to see.




Really enjoying the rays at Real Life


Jeff


Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Eternal love


Hi everyone,
I loved talking about heaven on Sunday, Hell was a little tougher. God really does love us! I know I shouldn't be so surprised by that but I am - every day it just blows me away. I am really tired this week- Might be from the two trips to Idaho in 48 hours- Thanks for being a church that cares for other people. I always feel so good about invited people to join us on Sunday because I know how they will be received by you. It's God working in you. You are his "A" team!!!!

People are waiting for an invitation to be a part of something- I seem to be reminded of that everyday...

I am looking forward to Mother's Day. All you Moms out there are amazing- the influence you have is life changing... you are the real super heroes...

See you Sunday

Monday, April 30, 2007

Many Different faces


What a great day! Both services really encouraged me. I can see God moving in so many ways. You know it is not so much God moving over all of us but God moving uniquely in individual lives and all that combined makes this great musical of God's love- I know that is a little cheesy- but I think you get the point.

I really enjoy team teaching. I can see the truth and the power of God's word touch others and touch me. This week seemed to be all about different relationships. I had so many different opportunities to see the great need people have. I know God can help them if they just open themselves up to him. Some people were open to hear about how much God cares about them and some people were closed off by fear and pain. My heart breaks for them, but I keep my eyes open for opportunities.

I had a this great moment on Friday I stopped by to see a friend -from real life- and he was telling me about this person who was in great need and how he listened to God and simply responded to meet the need. As it turned out, I was able to meet this person and see first hand how this act of compassion opened this person up to God's Love. Way Cool to see God move.

Everyone is seeking something - check out the picture. Keep being Real. God is using everyday people to do extraordinary things. God is Good. Jeff

Monday, April 23, 2007

Lessons learned


Today I was reflecting on Sunday. I was reminded how generous God is. To be able to come to a church where I feel such love and openness. It just lifts me up to come into the parking lot....Reality check...there is a lot of heart ache in the seats each week, real stuff you know? I was just praying -God please help them, meet their needs, encourage them, bring someone to walk with them so they don't feel alone. I can feel overwhelmed, but as we sang I was reminded God is God and that is enough.


As I was driving to Corvallis after the service to be with Maggie I was thinking about what kind of cup I want to use to get blessings from God and to be a blessing to others. Real Life, what would happen if we loved the "Venti Life" you know what I mean? What could God do with that? Lives could be changed, marriages could be saved, hope could return to the hopeless. Man I was getting all excited and fired up as my imagination was going wild....Reality check... I got out of the truck at OSU to watch Maggie's volleyball team. The morning had been difficult and they had lost a couple of close games... they were a little discouraged. Bracket play was about to begin, they still could win the tournament (if they could win the next 4 three game matches) they would have to forget the morning and focus on what was ahead... they had to overcome difficulty... fatigue... doubt... mistakes... five and a half hours and four matches later they where CHAMPIONS! What an achievement for them and what a LESSON FOR ME. For me to be what God wants me to be I have to overcome difficulty...fatigue...doubt...mistakes and God is right there cheering me on...Man God is opening my eyes to what He has in store for RLCC.

talk some more later.


TOTALLY REAL

Jeff