Smitty City

2007-08-15T07:11:00.001-07:00

www.smittycity.wordpress.com

2007-08-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

756

Hooray!

The Color of Sales

2007-08-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Housing slump notwithstanding, sellers of ecofriendly homes are seeing green. "Our local real-estate market is in the tank, but we're hiring people left and right to try to keep up with demand," says David Stitt, an ecofriendly builder in Arkansas. At 340 on the Park, a new green high-rise overlooking Lake Michigan in Chicago, 337 of the building's 343 units are sold - despite prices from $350,000 to more than $2 million.

"We're selling expensive real estate in the city of Chicago, and it can't feel Birkenstockish," says Kerry Dickson, of the developer Related Midwest. In December, Elaine Cottey and her husband will move into their unit. They like the ecologically correct bamboo floors, the bike room and the 11,000-gallon tank that collects storm water used to irrigate the landscaping. All the right stuff, and it still looks luxe. "It's a win-win situation," says Cottey.

Today's buyers want to save money on energy and breathe air without smelly chemicals in the paint. There's also the "cool" factor. "There is a uniqueness to a home that has a countertop made out of recycled glass, or flooring made out of salvaged wood, and they know where that wood comes from," says Jennifer Hattam, green-living editor for the Sierra Club.

The greenest homes embrace native plants, use little water (think low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets that provide more water for solid waste), require minimal energy and improve indoor air quality. Floors made from rapid-growth eucalyptus trees and countertops made from recycled paper are good for nature - and are "feel-good features," says Grand Rapids, Michigan builder Arn McIntyre.

There are even green real-estates agencies, such as Green Key Real Estate in S.F. and KJM Real Estate in Beverly Hills, California. "This really isn't the house of the future. This is the house of today," says Albuquerque, N.M., home builder Steve Hale. And in this nervous economy, says KJM's Brian Bradley, "by incorporating green features into your home, you can increase its value and make it stand out in the marketplace."

*This article taken from the August 6th edition of Newsweek.

Out with Soap?

2007-07-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

If you are anything like Smitty, you have undoubtedly found yourself restless at night, eating provolone cheese, and pondering the effectiveness of Purell. Admit it, the smooth application and psychological comfort compels usage...frequent usage. But is it effective? Is is more effective than soap and water?

The American Safety and Health Institute posits that alcohol-based hand sanitizer is more effective than soap in water...in fact, they recommend the use of products such as Purell and others. Also, you can skim this collegiate study that tests the efficiency of alcohol-based sanitizer vs. antibacterial soap. They found the ASHI to be accurate.

They key is alcohol concentration. According to a issue of the Emerging Infectious Diseases journal published last year, the alcohol concentration must not fall below 60%. The article says, "What this should say to the consumer is that they need to look carefully at the label before they buy any of these products,” said Elaine Larson, professor of pharmaceutical and therapeutic research at Columbia’s nursing school. “Check the bottle for active ingredients. It might say ethyl alcohol, ethanol, isopropanol or some other variation, and those are all fine. But make sure that whichever of those alcohols is listed, its concentration is between 60 and 95 percent. Less than that isn’t enough."

Divine Happenstance, part two

2007-07-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

I flew cross country last week to pursue the starring role in a story based on my life (for the record, I didn't get the part). Before I arrived at the airport that would steal all dignity from my soul a mere 24 hours later, I met a young lady who was suffering. She was descending upon death. For no more than an hour, it was my honor to hold my arm in the sky with finger pointed to the man who has carried the burden for all death and separation. She was unaware of the gentleman I pointed to during our conversation. The man that she had always been pointed to had a tarnished reputation in her eyes. At first I attempted to remove the rust and decay from this gentleman's face, but soon realized that I didn't know the man. So, I pointed her to a different man. The man I know - the beneficiary of my Soul Cravings. His face was refreshing to her, for they had never been introduced.

When I got off the plane, I had an eerie feeling that my purpose had been completed. Long before the apex of my journey that all money, time, and emotion had led to, God clearly said, "I'm done." I quickly realized that I was not there to audition for a starring role, rather, I was there to play a small role in the story of God.

I prefer it that way.

Divine Happenstance

2007-07-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Read the book of Esther. I have plenty of thoughts, but my commentary is trivial at best.

Instead of reading my musings, study Mordecai's words in chapter 4,

verses 12-17.

The River of God flows past us as we stand along its banks.
You can jump in if you like.
Or not.
It flows regardless.

Shoot the Monkey

2007-06-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

An Interview with Beah.

Ishmael Beah's memoir is the best and worst book I have read in years.

His self-awareness during these experiences is nearly unbelievable.

Read it.

1 a.m.

2007-06-15T06:28:00.000-07:00

A dull pain radiated through my limbs as I cowered in the corner of a classroom in an antiquated school building. The loud silence of anticipation hurt my ears as I waited - consumed with fear. With my gun on it's mark, I didn't move a muscle though the blood had stopped circulating in my legs because of the crouched position I had assumed. The pitch black, abandoned classroom was my fortress. I prepared for the ambush.

Only fifty yards from my position, the Blackhawk landed outside with a subtle roar. Within seconds the Rangers had blown the front door in. In his office, the headmaster turned from his book to find an assault rifle pointed directly at this head. Before he had time to utter the words of protest, zip cuffs bound his arms behind his back. He was shoved to his knees.

Two stun grenades were thrown down the hall outside my locked classroom building. It was the loudest noise I had ever heard in my life. The flash of the grenades were so fierce that the concrete walls that surrounded me exposed its radiance. My death was inevitable, but I would be vindicated if at least one man felt the fatal wrath of my weapon before my life was cut short.

The Rangers moved to the end of the hall and began fusing doors. Loud explosions explained the fate of the wood as each entrance was cleared. My unarmed confidant was apprehended in the room next to me. He was escorted, alongside the headmaster, to the Blackhawk that waited outside. Each stun grenade got more deafening as the men cleared the rooms making their way to my fortress. Mine was the last room to search.

As the men began to fuse the door that protected my position, everything went silent. I could no longer hear the black bird outside - I could no longer hear my heart beating. I picked up a faint breathing that I thought was my own...I quickly realized that it was the inhale and exhale of the German Sheppard that accompanied the men outside my door.

I braced my body and mind for the blast, but it wasn't enough. The scream of the explosion jarred my body out of it's perfect position. I reset just in time to feel the nine charges of the stun grenade that illuminated my dark dwelling. As soon as my eyes adjusted from the nine, brilliant flashes and I saw the first set of the glowing green eyes, I started firing. I squeezed off about four or five rounds before three Rangers entered, turned their assault rifles on the cowering terrorist, and put twenty of their own rounds directly in the center of my torso. The first bullet hit my trigger finger. I had no prayer surviving the rest.

I lay still in the corner of the dark classroom as one of the soldiers took my weapon and checked me for explosives. They surveyed the rest of the room before moving out.

It was 1 a.m.

Worlds Apart: An Intellectual Conversation between Religions (part III - the finale)

2007-05-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

Being diametrically opposed to the idea of Christians being polytheistic was not enough to prevent further investigation into the heart of a man who lives in a different world, both spiritually and mentally. I was compelled by the reverence that Kia demonstrated during our discussion. He answered my questions with a great deal of humility and dignity, always assigning honor and glory to Allah. I could not help but think of how mainstream Christianity has become so convoluted with the subconscious idea of God being the supreme novelty. With "Christian" books, music, jargon, and fashion dominating our lives, we seem to be stuck in Christian ghettos where God is the really hip mayor. Christianity has become fashionable. When you read the works of the early church fathers such as Augustine, Polycarp, Ignatius, and Irenaeus, you interpret a sense of reverence in their writings. They seem to understand the magnitude of the God with which they are referencing. We have lost that; I have lost that. Kia's insights were saturated with reverence for his God, and I was humbled by it.

Inadvertent doses of humility were often given to this evangelical Christian during the course of our brief interaction. After discussing verbal persecution in America, the privilege of white Christians quickly surfaced. Kia admitted to being the victim of countless prejudicial encounters, even several during his stint at the YMCA. The stories are all the same: ignorant and intolerant whites embarrassing America with hearts of stone and the intellects of children. We progressed on through the Civil Rights movement only to regress after the events of 9/11. Kia has come to expect this treatment, though his faith does not waver.

As we enjoyed fresh baklava, I gave my friend the opportunity to conclude our conclave with anything that might be on his heart with regards to something we discussed or failed to discuss. He proposed education as the tool to abolish the acute disease of intolerance that our nation suffers from. Kia wisely forecasted that people will not let go of prejudice until they are taught how and why. I whole-heartedly agree with this prognosis. On a more personal level, my faith was found suspect in the light of this man's humility and respect for his God and his customs (wading through the muck of Christianity is a chore that I often fail to recognize as necessary). I truly feel that I possess more respect and admiration for Kia Jahed than I do for countless followers of Christ that have crossed my path over the years.

The previous statement, though entirely true, is devastating to my spirit.

Worlds Apart: An Intellectual Conversation between Religions (part II)

2007-05-21T14:21:00.000-07:00

...We trekked on, consuming issues such as the Shiite/Sunni dichotomy, the Iranian Revolution, the kinesiology of prayer, and Bathism. The doctrine of the afterlife, according to the Qur'an, was of particular interest to me, so I inquired. According to Kia, the Qur'an explains that those who believe in the one, true God (Allah), those who believe in the "last day", those who exhibit works of righteousness...anyone who fully submits themselves to God...these people have nothing to fear (with regards to destiny). Kia explained that the doctrine within the Qur'an assures this person's salvation. An enormous exception to this mandate is the person who believes the prophet Muhammad to be a liar; this person is not subject to the mercy of Allah. I was illuminated to the idea of Muslims, Jews, Christians, and others enjoying the fruit of eternity together. Despite this tolerant notion, the previously stated stipulations are without dispute or debate. One is not required to be a graduate of the finest Protestant seminary to know that Christianity does not boast of such "equality". The doctrine of the Christian faith explains that saving grace was provided by Christ when he willingly sacrificed his life for the sins of humanity, past and present. The wrath of God was appeased by Christ's impeccable blood. This sacrifice is sufficient to cover the sin of any individual who declares Jesus as the Son of the living God, believes in his accomplishments through the cross and resurrection, and commits their being to His Lordship. This person is promised God's grace, and this grace is available to all. According to Christianity, the requirements of salvation are nothing more and nothing less. Obviously, the beliefs of Islam and Christianity, with regard to the afterlife, are polarized. In my worldview, Kia's convictions of truth are not sufficient for God's grace and mercy. After hearing my friend's description of Islamic dogma, I was naturally inclined to ask if I was subject to Allah's mercy. After all, I can boast in one God, belief in the "last day", works of righteousness, and submission to a sovereign creator. Kia's response was unexpected and nearly offensive.

Kia respectfully explained that to associate divinity to any one person is a violation of monotheism. Essentially, Muslims believe that the doctrine of the trinity exposes Christians as polytheists. It should be noted that the word "trinity" never occurs in Christian scriptures; rather, it was used to articulate the three manifestations of the one, true God by early church fathers. The most widely used metaphor with regards to the idea of the trinity is that of H20. H20 can take on the form of water, vapor, and ice. Regardless of its form, it still is composed of the basic elements, hydrogen and oxygen. In the same way, Jesus is believed to be God revealed in flesh, one hundred percent man and one hundred percent God. Similarly, the Spirit of God that was given to believers after Christ's ascension is the unseen presence of the sovereign Creator that true followers of Christ possess. In the eyes of a conservative evangelical, this is no violation of monotheism. Rather, it speaks to the generosity of the supreme deity because he has provided his essence both physically and spiritually for those who follow Him. This is problematic for the devout Muslim. Although never explicitly articulated, Kia communicated that the Christian, in his opinion, can not boast of belief in the one true God.

World's Apart: An Intellectual Conversation between Religions (part I)

2007-05-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

It was rather fitting that I sat in a Mediterranean restaurant discussing the doctrinal implications of Islam with a devout disciple of Allah.

Kia Jahed and I sat a few feet apart enjoying customary chick peas and reminiscing about the days when he and I worked together at the local Y.M.C.A. We had a friend who was Jewish, and the three of us usually worked the same shift. Daily, Kia would begin random jokes with... "Hey guys, you ever heard the one about the Muslim, the Christian, and Jew?!" It was a blessing that Kia was always so comfortable and confident with his faith; it made for a less awkward and burdensome fulfillment of a certain intercultural communication requirement. Kia is currently slaving day in and day out at the University of Louisville's medical school. In response to my sincere appreciation for his presence, he assured me that without strategic distractions, such as the one I had provided, he would slip slowly into madness. The appreciation was mutual.

Leaving room for the blessed baklava, we pushed aside our last plate from the buffet to fulfill the purpose of our assembly. Even the tone of our voices slightly changed, reflecting the gravity of the issue at hand. I pressed the record button. My first question to Kia was simply meant to get the ball rolling, but I was given a response that I did not expect. Kia was, in fact, converted to Islam. I ignorantly assumed that anyone of Middle Eastern descent, like my friend's skin so clearly manifested, had been born into the fastest growing religion in the world. "Following suit" had been the biography of Jonathan Smith, but I quickly learned that Kia's parents, despite having migrated from Iran after the Revolution, were nothing more than humble agnostics who had never found their place in religious discussion. Although born in Iran, Kia spent the vast majority of his impressionable years being warped by American culture, as I had. Being toted to church on Sunday morning with friends was nothing new to my dark, bearded crony. After being invited to a Friday prayer by some friends from a local pizza shop as a teenager, Kia was mesmerized by the humility and reverence that saturated the words of the Imam. Soon after this initial encounter, Kia began to haphazardly skim through the Qur'an. His words to me in that Mediterranean restaurant expressed the impact that the divine revelation of Muhammad had had on his young spirit: "It was like swimming in a ocean of truth." After hearing this testimony, I must admit that there was a bit of dissonancy in my spirit. Although I cannot confirm the existence of absolute objectivity (The Myth of Objectivity...coming soon), it seems that Kia's decision to immerse himself in that particular "ocean" came to fruition through untainted, non-parental influenced musings. There is a small part of me that holds contempt for my Christian heritage. Would I have settled for reformed theology, inerrant and infallible scriptures, and the priesthood of the believers if it were not for the overwhelming influence of my parents, and their parents, and their parents, and so on? That question will remain unanswered. The Muslim that sat across from me that day was fortunate enough not to have to carry that weight. Unlike him, being spiritually jaded was the theme of my religious preference. Since I was an infant, the pages of Christianity's divine book have been stamped on my mind, my heart, and my soul. Subsequently, at the ripe age of twenty-two, its dynamism has been tamed, resulting in occasional numbness. There are brief glimpses of its power and authority, but my history and the distractions of my world suppress it with great force. With beautiful rhetoric, Kia articulated his zeal for carrying the words of the Qur'an in his heart. He dismissed the notion of the Qur'an being used as a mere reference as lukewarm and disrespectful to the faith. This conviction left me speechless in the light of my fellow Christians utter lack of reverence and respect for the book we allegedly center our life around. I was devastated to see my people's apathy and disillusionment exposed over humus.

Against All Foes?

2007-04-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

[The following is an article written by David Kinnaman, Strategic Leader and Vice President of The Barna Group... I thought its topic would provoke a smart conversation]

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MOVIES OFTEN HINGE ON A GOOD-VERSUS-EVIL STORY LINE. THE JEDI WILL RISE AGAIN TO DEFEAT THE SITH. THE GLADIATOR FACES A DESPICABLE EMPEROR. JACK SPARROW CONFRONTS THE WRETCHED DAVY JONES.

When it comes to faith, many Christians embrace a similar kind of thinking - us versus them. But not necessarily the biblical notion of combating spiritual forces (described in Ephesians 6.12), which is the very real kin of spiritual entanglement that Christians should be engaged in.

Instead, many believers demonize the people with whom they disagree - atheists, homosexuals, environmentalists, political opponents, and even people from other faiths. For these Christians, their motivation is not bringing the Kingdom of God into sharper relief. Rather, they respond to the world and to others based upon impulses of fear and self-righteousness.

Unfortunately, we are in that boat more than we care to admit, aren't we? Mel Gibson's tirade against Jews was extreme, and public failures such as his certainly damage the image of Christianity. But the reputation of the Christian community is not merely created at hands of high-profile leaders. Every one of us, as leaders, communicators and bearers of the image of God, are partly responsible. Do your thoughts and actions always reflect Christ's love toward others? When was the last time you made an off-handed, demeaning joke about homosexuality or some other area in which people struggle? Have you been kind and bighearted - without being condescending or compromising - toward people who believe differently than you?

I can vividly recall verbally hammering two young Mormon missionaries who came to my door. Another time, I remember making a joke about homosexuality, only to be reminded later that one of our houseguests had personally struggled with that lifestyle. I am ashamed at these memories - and others like it, when my behavior stole away a sliver of God's great fame.

A research study I have been working on examines this issue more deeply - how Christians are perceived today in our multi-faith, sophisticated culture. You probably would not be surprised at the findings: the "brand" of Christianity - the set of perceptions and imagery that people maintain about the Christian faith - is not flattering. Most non-Christians think of Christianity as hypocritical and judgemental (among other things) because we have misrepresented God's character by our lives and our words. We have become famous for what we're against rather than Who we're for. Just ponder that for a moment.

REAL RIVALS

I would ask you, based upon what we learned in the research, to re-orient your thinking about people outside the Church. They are not your opponents. It is not an us-versus-them thing; it's an us-versus-us crisis. People bearing the badge of Christ are often at the root of the problem. Yes, there are "mighty powers of darkness" that should motivate us to spiritual contention. But let's look at three ways that the Christian community bears responsibility for cheapening the image of God.

Spiritual Apathy - Lazy Christianity is devastating because it undermines the compelling difference Christ makes in people's lives. the vast majority of Americans are in this predicament: they call themselves Christians, but comparatively few have been transformed by that faith. Their lives are no different than the "average" American. Their Christian faith is a dusty trophy sitting on a shelf somewhere in a cluttered life.

The scope of this problem is huge. Out research suggests that seven out of every eight self-identified Christians and three out of every four born again Christians are dealing with significant levels of spiritual apathy. As an example: less than one in every 10 churched families spends any time in a typical month in spiritual pursuits in the home, aside from praying at mealtimes. So, when non-believers come in contact with a "Christian," the chances are good that they will come away with an apathetic, uninspiring, and theologically scrambled impression of what it means to be a Christ follower.

Spiritual Arrogance - The research points out that spiritually arrogant Christianity is also part of the problem that diminishes God's reputation in our culture. In the interviews, non-Christians explained that they are offended by the assumption that people who are not part of the Christian faith are immoral. They feel threatened by Christian posturing as morally superior. And they often take offense at the terms we use to define them, such as "lost" and "non-believers" - the implicit message of our terminology being that those outside of churches are no spiritually minded.

In a stunning but strategic maneuver of Satan, the people who are most susceptible to spiritual arrogance are the very ones who are least likely to be spiritually lazy. In other words, among the most biblically thinking and functioning believers in the country, much of their effort is undercut by a lack of love. This means that the ones who can best communicate the answers that Jesus provides are often neutralized by their own pride.

Self-absorption - Our research among non-Christians also shows that their perception is that Christians feel the world revolves around them. For instance, Christians sometimes complain about being a persecuted minority in America - that they are misrepresented in the media and other venues. While there may be some truth to this view, cries of abuse don't help non-Christians (who really are a minority) feel more endeared to a faith which draws allegiance from four out of five Americans and that continues to operate with significant opportunities in this country. Non-Christians believe our grumpiness is a reflection of an inflated sense of self-importance. In their view, the nation's most dominant religion - the big faith on the block - shouldn't have (or need) special treatment. Besides, they feel as though Christians consistently misunderstand and mischaracterize them, so what's the big deal?

Another reason why non-Christians believe we are self-absorbed is that our efforts to share Christ often come across as insincere and one-sided. Here's a remarkable thought: How do you feel when Mormons come to your door? Do you believe that they are genuinely interested in you as a person - or do you believe they would very much like to see you convert? Do you feel that they really listen to what you have to say or do they pretty much have an agenda for their visit? Well, guess what? That's not far from the reputation we have among those outside the Christian faith. We have to take a long, honest look at our approach to spiritual conversations: are we operating out of a pure spirit to help people find the living Christ - or does our concern for others come with a not-so-hidden agenda, another notch in the convert belt?

SEEING THE FUTURE

There are no simple solutions or easy way out of the hot water we're in. But here are some guidelines for re-engaging people outside the church and reframing the Christian way of life. The first thing is to remember what our goal is not: popularity. Being well-liked doesn't make Christians more effective. Working harder, saying the right words, and trying the right combination of things doesn't help us break through to more souls. What does? Being more in tune with God's desires and His passion for people.

Instead, our main goal should be life transformation, molding people into the types of disciples Jesus shines though. This is easy to articulate, but very tough to do. Our research shows that transformation rarely happens through brief interactions, but through life-on-life modeling over a long period of time.

Next, you should realize that creativity is vitally important to the future of our faith. One of the undercurrents of non-Christians' perceptions of Christianity is indifference. It has no relevance. Good or bad, they simply don't care. But, for most of them, it's not for a lack of hearing the message of Christ. They have heard it, most of them, before. But the message never sank in; it had neither gravity nor buoyancy, neither humanity nor divinity. That's why creativity becomes so crucial in telling the story of the Christian faith - not just through hyped-up presentations or slick, well- run church services - but through honest people trying to tell the story of Christ's death and resurrection in remarkably relevant ways. If God has given you a passion for trying something new - maybe in your church, perhaps outside of it - keep pursuing that vision. It's not a mistake that you're feeling that way.

Finally, take stock of your own context. God wants to shape you into the best possible servant of His kingdom. If you want to reflect His glory brightly, He will show where to apply the polish.

Are there ways in which you are enabling spiritual laziness to exist in your life, your family's life or in your church?
Has spiritual pride or self-absorption crept into your faith?
Do you use language or phrases about people outside of Christianity that are demeaning and judgmental?
What steps do you take to understand other people when you meet them - not just their spiritual journey and needs, but everything about their life?
How much leverage do you give the Holy Spirit to show you blind spots in your life?
Are you defined by what you oppose or Who you're for? It's easy to claim we are motivated by our love for Jesus - but how would other people describe you? In their view, do your words and actions help or hurt God's reputation?
Is your life or your church a place where only perfect people are welcome?
Since Scripture has the special ability to cut through us, what parts of the Bible are you rolling around in your brain regarding God's fame and how he wants us to treat others? How does Jesus react to people? Spiritually needy individuals? Prideful people?

We cannot ignore the poor reputation of our faith. You probably already had a sense of this problem. If not, I hope this article spurred your realization of the challenges that we face. And I hope it catalyzes your search for solutions in your life and ministry.

It is easy to live a spiritually lazy life, harder still to catalyze people to true spiritual maturation and transformation. It is cheap excuse to complain that Christians are mistreated at the hands of the culture at large; it is much more difficult to make sacrifices for and serve that culture. Slowly succumbing to pride is a path of minimal resistance compared to humbly measuring our heartbeat every day by God's standards.

But, then, God is pleased when we accomplish big things that increase His fame in our time. Are you up to the challenge?

2007-04-13T13:48:00.001-07:00

I shall return.

The Greater Mission

2007-02-02T09:42:00.001-08:00

This video was created and posted for Ms. Megan Gross of Big Stuf Camps

Bin Laden in a Sleeping Bag

2007-01-23T21:21:00.000-08:00

I am a bit confused. A former officer of our nation's Air Force just finished telling me (indirectly) and Rusty Humphrey (directly) about his 1987 experience of supplying Mr. Bin Laden with fire arms and ammunition. He shared with all who cared to listen that he, along with some other men, flew fifteen thousand pounds of cargo that was marked, "Sleeping Bags", into Islamabad were foot-soldiers of Bin Laden retrieved them with intentions of using said "camping gear" against the Russians. He commented that he took part in five similar missions, all to the same region and to the same people. These transactions were initiated by the American government. I'll sleep on this one. Then again, maybe I won't.

Welcome to Miami, Peyton!

2007-01-21T20:07:00.000-08:00

Euphoria . . . Finally!

The Beast as Saint?

2007-01-14T16:34:00.000-08:00

Has anyone else ever encountered accusations such as these?

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Truth about King?

Me, Lee, and the Florida D

2007-01-08T21:31:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO THE SEC!

It should be noted that Mr. Lee Corso consulted a certain blog that will remain nameless (SmittyCity) that prompted him to put on the Gator head for his pregame prediction of Monday night's BCS Championship. We tried to tell them, didn't we, Lee? I'm still not convinced that LSU isn't the best team in the nation. But, I digress. Christopher Leak deserves every bit of recognition that he has and will receive...but if your looking for the true M.V.P. of the win...look no further than the Gator defense. Those boys embarrassed the best offense in the nation with nasty pressure all night from the front and a secondary that Meyer should bronze and put on his coffee table. Troy Smith and Jimmy Tressel couldn't stick their finger in their ear straight. Listen to me, when your a blocked punt away from going undefeated in the tenacious SEC, you can play the game. I can't understand why the predictions were so lopsided. Granted, if you play that game next week, Florida doesn't win by thirty again. But you must give credit where credit is due, Florida was flawless on both sides of the ball this evening. The offense did as it pleased and the defense exposed Troy Smith's panties. A pink thong, I believe.

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OSU, averaging over 400 total yards per game during the regular season, put up 82 tonight, with 1 third down conversion and 2 turnovers. That showing is as disgraceful as it gets...and no, Teddy Ginn could not have made a significant difference. Should a 52 day layoff be considered? Should not playing anyone after September with a winning record outside of Michigan be considered? Should 6 of the past 9 title games being won by the underdog be considered? You tell me.

41 - 14 ... 41 -14 ... 41 -14 ... 41-14 ... 41-14

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Can Boise State dispute Florida's title?

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Anyone see what Dallas Baker had written on his shirt during the post-game interview?

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Key to the game: The Secondary.

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Quote of the night (from Karl Smith as time expired): "Now the Big Ten can shove it up thier Big... Goodnight Solomon!"

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Herbstreet is sexy, but I hate his Buckeyes.

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Other blog titles that were cut: The Fall of Troy & No Plummer for Florida's Leak

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Will Meyer now get more than Bama promised Saban?

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I BID THEE FAREWELL, SWEET, SWEET COLLEGE FOOTBALL!

SEC Hyperbole (maybe) & Bathroom Talk

2007-01-05T16:32:00.000-08:00

It's over for the SEC. After this year, you will never see another SEC team in the BCS National Championship game. Now that Saban is ready to resurrect the historic Crimson Tide, the Southeastern Conference has never been so stacked. Richt, Spurrier, Miles, Meyer, Nutt, Tubberville, Fulmer, Kentucky on the move, and now Slick Nick. No one will ever again be able to exit the SEC regular season unscathed and triumph in Atlanta, subsequently sending them to the Big Daddy. Hey, Big Ten...quit arguing with us...your not the toughest conference! You may have the old history, but we have the new muscle! (or as my man Will said, "Old and Busted...New Hotness!"). But, we're becoming too strong. How are you suppose to make it out untouched when your getting hammered by the best athletes and the best coaches in the nation week in and week out (this is why I predict 1 loss Florida to upset the Buckeyes Monday night). Besides the dynamic coaches slowly trickling into the greatest conference on earth, it would be negligent not mention the top three quarterbacks in all of high school football who meandered into the SEC last year (Tebow, Stafford, Mustain). Simply put, the best players are following the best coaches. Try pouring your heart and soul into preparation for Urban Meyer's Gators one week, and spend the next week recovering from your excruciating win just in time to play in Death Valley. There is too much parity...everyone is good.

And for the record-

If Smitty says a mosquito can pull a plow...don't argue, hitch it up.

On a different note...

UK's basketball program is stuck in reverse. Each year the Mildcats continue to lose more and more games and get fewer and fewer big name recruits. Are the fans actually at the point where they are satisfied with a 7 point win over a terrible Houston team? A Houston team that doesn't have Clyde Drexler or Hakeem! A win may be a win at Tulsa and Georgia, but here in Lexington you have to blow out the cupcakes. Do you remember what used to happen here when we had a "down" year? We'd get beat by 1 at the buzzer in overtime to one of the best college basktball teams/programs ever. That's acceptable, losing in the 2nd round, consistently, isn't. Drain the TUB!!!

* Kentucky opinion authored by co-blogger, Patrick Leveque

Not Reading...

2007-01-02T05:14:00.000-08:00

Although, it would be a lie to claim that I have no desire to see what it says.

Curiosity killed something, didn't it?

Currently Reading...

2006-12-28T12:39:00.000-08:00

Deserving?

2006-12-10T14:21:00.000-08:00

Does Troy Smith deserve one of the most prestigious awards in all of sports? Keep in mind, after September, Ohio State only played one team that finished with a winning record. Not to mention, Brady Quinn put up better stats this season than Mr. Smith (more passing yards, more touchdowns...Smith did have a higher passer rating [108.7 - 167.0] ). It is also interesting that the Johnny Unitas award, given to the top quarterback in college football, was given to the four-year starter from Notre Dame. Ask yourself, how can you win the Heisman if your not even considered the best quarterback in college football? A bigger question that that...how did Darren McFadden slip into second place? Is this award for the college M.V.P.? Or is this award for the best college athlete? Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that I disagree with the 2006 Heisman decision. In fact, I think that they were brilliant to invite only three players to the ceremony this year. Slaton and Hart did have great years...but not New York worthy years.

I must admit that I was moved by his life story because of my family's history of foster-care. It is great to see someone make it through this system that so often fails children. Anyway, the question is whether Troy Smith is deserving. At this point, I don't have a definitive opinion. I would love to know yours.

-------------------------------------

NFL thoughts...

* Young may not be the best QB in the league - but he comes to play.

* 29 in 13 ... unbelievable. I witnessed it, though.

*Colts' post-season assessment: NO RUN DEFENSE...NO SUPERBOWL. Simple as that.

2006-12-05T10:21:00.000-08:00

I'LL TAKE...

Churchill on Leadership

2006-11-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

Sir Winston Churchill is a fascinating character of world history, and one of my favorite personalities of all time. I would recommend Churchill on Leadership to anyone who feels that they are, or should be, a student of leadership. Those who appreciate the wealth of wisdom and knowledge that one can attain from history should put Steven F. Hayward's biographical examination of Churchill and his leadership techniques on your future reading list.

"Every night... I try myself by Court Martial to see if I have done anything effective during the day. I don't mean just pawing the ground, anyone can go through the motions, but something really effective.

- Winston Churchill, 1932

Paul Letta Ta Philemon

2006-11-21T12:06:00.000-08:00

A, Paul, wa een de jailhouse fa sake ob Jedus Christ, an we broda Timothy, da write ya, Philemon, we deah Christian broda wa da hep we een de wok. A da write too ta ya, Apphia, we sista, an ta Archippus, wa da wok long wid we een de fight. An A da write ta de bredren wa da meet dey een ya house. We da pray dat God we Fada an we Lawd Jedus Christ bless oona an gii oona peace een oona haat.

All de time wen A da pray fa ya, A da tell me God tankya fa ya. Cause A yeh say ya lob all God people an ya da trus een de Lawd Jedus. A da pray dat de fait dat oona hab een de Lawd Jedus gwine hep oda people fa ondastan mo an mo bout de blessin dat God da gii we, wen we one een Christ. Wen A yah how ya lob God people, A been full op wid joy an A tek courage fa true. Cause me Christian broda, ya done mek God people haat glad.

So den, eben dough A got de tority fa chaage ya fa do wa ya oughta do, cause A Christ postle, stillyet, cause ob ya lob, A ain gwine do dat. A jes da aks ya, eben dough A Paul done ole an now A een de jailhouse fa sake ob de wok dat A beena do fa Jedus Christ. A da aks ya fa sake ob Onesimus, wa God done mek me own chile een Christ. Cause wiles A been een de jailhouse yah, A bring um fa trus een Christ. Onesimus ain been no hep ta ya, bot now e able fa hep ya, an kin hep me too. A da sen um back ta ya. A lob um sommuch dat e jes like me haat da gwine wid um. A been wahn fa keep um wid me yah fa hep me now wen ya ain wid me, wiles A een de jailhouse fa sake ob de Godd Nyews ob God. Bot A ain keep um wid me yah, cause A ain know ef ya been fa gree fa um fa stay wid me. A wahn ya fa hep me jes ef ya wahn fa hep me. Maybe God leh Onesimus lef ya fa leetle wile, so dat ya kin hab um back faeba. An e ain gwine come back ta ya jes like a slabe no mo. E mo den dat now. E ya deah Christian broda wa da come back ta ya. A lob um fa true, bot fa sho, ya gwine lob um mo den me now. Cause e da wok fa ya, an mo den dat, e ya deah broda een de Lawd. So den, since ya know e one een Christ, da wok togeda, ya oughta gii Onesimus haaty welcome, jes like ya been ga gii me haaty welcome. If e done do ya wrong or ef e owe ya sompin, chaage me fa dat. A Paul da write dis yah wid me own han. A gwine pay ya back wasoneba Onesimus da owe ya. A ain gwine taak bout de debt dat ya owe me. Ya owe me eben ya own sef. Yeah, me broda, do me dis fabor, fa sake ob we Lawd. A ya Christian broda. Mek me haat glad. Wiles A da write ya dis, A sho dat ya gwine do wa A aks ya fa do. A know ya gwine do eben mo den wa A aks ya fa do. One oda ting, A wahn ya fa git a room ready fa me. A da look fowaad, cause ob de pray dat oona all da pray ta God fa me, dat e gwine git me outta dis jailhouse so dat A gwine be able fa come ta oona gin.

Epaphras, wa longside me een de jailhouse yah fa sake ob Jedus Christ, e tell oona hey. Mark, Aristarchus, Demas an Luke, wa all da wok togeda longside me, dey tell oona hey too. A pray dat de Lawd Jedus Christ gwine bless all ob oona.

Taken from the Gullah New Testament (De Nyew Testament)

Scarlet & Gray vs. Scarlet Knights?

2006-11-17T11:26:00.000-08:00

1. Ohio State .977

2. Michigan .974

3. USC .870

4. Florida .850

5. Notre Dame .819

6. Rutgers .787

7. Arkansas .757

8. W. Virginia .658

9. Wisconsin .643

10. Louisville .641

Imagine this...

USC loses to Cal tomorrow night at 8. USC beats Notre Dame next week. Florida loses to Florida State next week. Arkansas loses to Florida in the SEC championship. Rutgers beats West Virginia on December 2nd. And if all that happens, Michigan doesn't fall back into second after a loss to Ohio State. Who's left?

I heard a BCS analyst say that... mathematically, a team that can reach the six position in the BCS rankings can, in fact, reach the national championship game. IT IS CONCEIVABLE. Of course, a million things must happen in the next few weeks...but remember that a man named George recently made it to the Final Four.

However, at this point, all USC has to do is win out (Cal, Notre Dame, @ UCLA...rugged) and they'll hold off all one loss teams.

Jesus is Dead

2006-11-13T19:45:00.000-08:00

My heart nearly exploded as I heard those words escape from the mouth of a fellow student this evening in class. She said it in passing...but she said it. Her exact words were: "Leadership can be studied from the life of Jesus even though he is dead. Besides, even today all those people follow him for some reason." She was giving a presentation on a book written by Ken Blanchard entitled, Servant Leadership. I said nothing. I felt Satan and his angels applauding me. I should have interrupted her presentation. That is what God has called us to do... to interrupt while the world spins to proclaim, however small or insignificant the venue, that our Lord is not dead. Tonight, I failed at following Christ. I failed my mission.

Lately, my pursuits of being an exceptional student have overshadowed my calling to be an exceptional disciple. There is more required from jonathan smith than simple A's and B's. The colleges and universities that we occupy need more than good students. They need fearless warriors who endlessly fight for the throne of creation. A throne that is already established, but one that has yet to be acknowledged by thousands that walk past us everyday on weathered pavement...thousands that walk by me. I started to write these thoughts in my journal, but I decided to post them so that they may encourage, challenge, and convict those of us who are merely surviving on our respective campuses. Let us pray for each other.

Tonight, I agreed with her.

Excuse me, you are right to say that many follow Him even now. We follow him because He is not dead. In fact, He conquered death and overcame the world. My apologies for the interruption.

Coach Hines & Ricky Bobby @ Loser 2006

2006-11-07T10:41:00.000-08:00

We were honored to have 2 famous guests at Loser 2006, our high school retreat at Lake Cumberland. Our guests were partial to "going real fast" and "cutting people's ears off with shears."

The Exploitation of Calvin Klein

2006-11-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

We are all well aware of political pundit, Rush Limbaugh…headache to both elephants and donkeys. Though I tend to agree with most of his rantings, we all would agree that he doesn’t do much to aid the reputation of conservatives. Well, he has successfully ruffled the media’s feathers (and their panties) yet again with his comments on Michael J. Fox, his illness, and his stem-cell supporting commercials. I love you, Rush. You make me smile, even laugh at times. Heck, I even looked past your drug addiction and your ridiculous marriage to the core of your being…and found something worth holding on to. But why would you feel the need to attack the character of an adored, Parkinson’s-ridden, time-traveling hero like Michael J. freakin’ Fox? You might as well made fun of Chris Reeves or the boxer formally known as Cassias Clay. If Rush’s ultimate mission is to sway viewers and listeners, then why would he attack the integrity of a loved celebrity battling a terminal disease? It just doesn’t make sense. Don’t broadcast that opinion…it doesn’t help the cause! Well, he did. And as I usually do here at Smitty City, I will give you my humble (and always correct) opinion. I wouldn’t have done it. After I watched the commercials, I would have put my head down, picked up my briefcase and exited the conference room. I would not have taken off my clothes, jumped on the table, and screamed, “FAKER, FAKER, BELLY-ACHER!”
If your have not caught up on the story…Rush accused Fox of failing to take his medicine to therefore incite the tremors associated with Parkinson’s, specifically for the taping of this commercial. The mission of this behavior, as stated by Limbaugh, was to evoke emotion in the viewers which would ultimately sway them to supporting stem-cell research and this particular candidate. Let’s face it…if you see Calvin Klein on the tube unable to control his body, you're going to stop and watch. Furthermore, you will probably feel some sort of emotion; in fact, I couldn’t help but feel some when viewing the commercial in order to formulate this opinion. Case and point: wise, wise tactic. Keyword of “case and point”: tactic.
Rush is not completely off base. He points out that Fox is on record in previously admitting to skipping his medication to exaggerate the tremors. If it’s happened before, it can happen again. I won’t speak to the accuracy of this allegation, and I won’t address its morality either (although you might care to comment). But I will say this: Rush was right by saying that Fox and his democratic cronies exploit his illness in times such as these. Most certainly. Aristotle’s pathos is guaranteed when Fox is on screen unable to control himself. So yes, I believe that Fox’s illness is being used as a tactic of political war. But…In the future, Rushy-baby, choose your battles more wisely. We don’t want to be viewed as heartless vultures!

(It should be noted that before Christ, I was a heartless vulture. Now I’m just a vulture…actually more like an Appalachian Buzzard)

(it should also be noted that agreeing with elephants more than donkeys doesn't make you and elephant)

A Googol

2006-10-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000, 000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000

The Solomander

2006-10-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

At dinner last night, my smarty pants little brother looked me dead in the eyes and said, "Bu, I hate you." I was shocked to say the least. So I did what any brother would do...I told on him. Solomon received "the look" from my mother, so he determined in his little brain that he needed to repair our broken relationship. He decided to do so with a hug and these words, "Bu, I'm sorry that I hate you."

Gnarly

2006-10-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

Fans of Smitty City (the faithful 2 ...and believe it or not, Melanie is not even one of them) know that I seldom use my blog for journal entries. I have a journal - and most of the time it is none of your business. But today...October 10, the year of our Lord 2006, I must turn my back on anti-journaling convinctions because I experienced the gnarliest weekend I've had in quite some time, and I must brag...I must. So, here we go...

Start

It started on Thursday when I dropped a big ole' 97% on my Discrimination in Linguistics class. Linguistics is a fascinating area of study. You know what else is fascinating? A 97 on a test. Mix the two and the world might end. Thank God it didn't before the rest of the weekend played out.

Gnarly.

I then proceeded to pick up my crazy cool sister, Kmax, and head off to Hotlanta. The reason for our southward expedition was to meet up with 4 insane cats already holding down the city for us. The cats are the following: Jimmy Carter, Dave Campbell, J.T. Eldridge, and a groovy chick named, Funky Chrystal. The reason for our meeting: Catalyst 2006. I was incredibly blessed to hear guys like Louie Giglio, Donald Miller, the dude who started the LiveStrong braclet, Lannie Donahoe, Reggie Joyner, and Rick McKinnley talk about leadership within the church. Flat amazing. Life-changing. Seriously.

Gnarly.

I drove back home to Nicholasville Saturday morning just in time to help my parents with the All God's Children rummage sale. It was successful. But not as successful as my Volunteers were on Saturday night. At halftime of the game, I was mad, frustrated, and mad. Adjustments were made in both offensive and defensive schemes at the break, which resulted in Tennessee blowing the doors off the #10 ranked team in the nation. It was a sexy win. I can't remember the last time I saw the Vols put up 51 points in a game, much less on an SEC powerhouse. And to top it off, Ainge played like a Heisman candidate.

Gnarly.

Now we come to the greatest part of the experience. A date with my beautiful wife. But not just any date...a concert in Nashville. Not just any concert...John Mayer. It was the most amazing experience I have had in quite some time. I have never really been to a real, secular concert before. The energy was addictive. Mayer, like the Vols, blew the doors off. His music has captured me. His performance was even better. I've never seen anyone play the guitar like that in my life. I was speechless. Being there with my wife was priceless. She said she might leave me for John Mayer. Funny, I always thought she would leave me for Will Smith. Anyway, his performance was 100 times better than his album...and his album is great. We returned to the great town of Nicholasville at 3 a.m. It was worth every second.

Gnarly.

And tonight, I end my adventure with a little thing called The Last Chapter. Ortiz...Shamrock...3. Nuff said.

End

(I dedicate the length of this gnarly post to my gnarly friend, Taylor)

The Savior of Blues

2006-09-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

I rarely review a compact disc, but this particular project by John Mayer is absurdly deserving.

Continuum, Mayer's third major release, finally eclipses the breathy pop-acoustic vibe that he previously discharged. With a brilliant mix of Motown type soul and Chicago blues, Mayer's smooth voice and guitar will captivate even the staunchest of blues aficionados. I first heard Mayer on an episode of the highly popular medical drama, House. At first, I had no idea who the singer/songwriter was until I Googled the lyrics of his soulful and emotional single, "Gravity." This particular song did something to my spirit.

There is not a song on the album that isn't worth stopping the train of your day to listen to. The critically and commercially recognized single, "Waiting on the World to Change," a falsetto-laden "Vultures," and a phenominal cover of Jimi Hendrix's "Bold as Love" help sculpt this record into a piece that will forver aid the definition of this generation's music. I would strongly recommend listening to this album start to finish, there is an emotional purpose in it's order.

There are few albums that have ever swept me away, but Continuum has succeeded. I would consider it to be one of the greatest cds I have ever heard (if your curious of it's company...ask). I was particularly impressed when at times he would coat a song with his own background vocals (one of the reasons I love Michael Jackson so much), as well as the placement of his stout guitar riffs. I must also admit that his rich, distinct voice is beyond sexy. There is an amazing unity in his voice, music, and lyrics that I rarely hear. Ultimately, preference is present, but you must know that Smitty doesn't get excited about music too often. Check out this 28 year old's work and let me know what you think. Connecticut's own, a drop-out of Berklee College of Music, has secured his seat as the savior of blues. Do you dig Clapton or Stevie Ray Vaughn? Dig the evolution.

Dave Campbell and I often discuss modern music that people will listen to decades from now... I think Gabriel's son will know of Continuum-Music by John Mayer.

re-

2006-09-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

My heart has been ripped out of my chest and thrown over a cliff. My emotions are unstable. My world is now blurry. My mind tells me to continue no more. There is only one thing that can extinguish the pain...time travel. I must travel back to my childhood and re-live it. I need to re-breath the earth's air at the age of six. I must re-experience Mrs. Simpson's class all over again. Things have changed. Life must be done all over. If 8 was the number then, my life would look completely different now. How could they do this to us? How dare they? I was happy. I was content. My life had been established with the knowledge of nine. Albeit, tucked away in a dark, damp corner under the cranium, that knowledge has influenced my mind's functioning for 22 years. I was wrong when I lost my first tooth, I was wrong when I gave my life to Christ, I was wrong when I graduated high school, when I got married, when I had my first child. How could they do this to me now? I cannot go on without re-living life as it is now. I will never forgive them.

2006-09-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

"AND NO ONE POUR NEW WINE INTO OLD WINESKINS. IF HE DOES, THE WINE WILL BURST THE SKINS, AND BOTH THE WINE AND THE WINESKINS WILL BE RUINED."

Every age knows the temptations to forget that the gospel is ever new. We try to contain the new wine of the gospel in old wineskins - outmoded traditions, obsolete philosophies, creaking traditions, old habits. But with time the old wineskins begin to bind the gospel. Then they must burst, and the power of the gospel pour forth once more. Many times this has happened in the history of the church. Human nature wants to conserve, but the divine nature is to renew. It seems almost a law that things initially created to aid the gospel eventually become obstacles - old wineskins. Then God has to destroy or abandon them so that the gospel wine can renew man's world once again.

The gospel is new in our day. It is still "the power of God." It is still bursting old wineskins and flowing forth into the world... But there is something else this parable teaches us - necessity of new wineskins. Wineskins are not eternal. As time passes they must be replaced - not because the gospel changes, but because the gospel changes, but because the gospel itself demands and produces change! New wine must be put into new wineskins - not once-for-all, but repeatedly, periodically.

- Howard A. Snyder

Preaching 101

2006-09-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

I announce my text, then run to the cross.

- Charles Spurgeon

Green

2006-08-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

It is staggering when one imagines how intimate the process of creation was for our God. When forming matter to jealously and constantly scream "GLORY," a certain amount of care and consideration goes into your work (let's call that an educated assumption). There is an unmeasurable level of creativity and genius that consumes the world around us, from the water cycle and photosynthesis to the tiniest biological details of Melanie's pregnancy. God is awesome (it is unfortunate that the word "awesome" is so overused). I preface my thoughts with these truths so that we understand that God was whole-heartedly involved in every detail of creation. So, with that in mind...I have this question.

Why Green?

An extremely annoying and ubiquitous thought I have had for quite some time deals with the motives of a certain Deity in His color choice. From trees to grass to plants to algae to weeds...all over the world! The next time you scan creation at any location outside of a desert wasteland, the color green will most certainly dominate the scenery. My question is a bit childish, I'll admit, but why did God create chlorophyll to possess a hue of green. Like our beaded power braclets, does the color green really symbolize growth? I truly believe that God has done nothing without reason...so why green? After I typed the previous sentence, I stopped and turned my head to peer out a window. Without moving an inch, I can clearly see at least ten shades of green among the flora. Don't get me wrong, I have no significant issues with the Lord's color selections. I concede that pink or purple simply wouldn't work. Also, we all know that green plants and vegetables are among some of the most healthy foods you can eat. I'm determined to believe there is something to this overlooked and overwhelming color.

To further provoke thought, consider this: Is my green...your green?

The Biography of Satan X

2006-08-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Radioactive attire bleeds philantrophy, but understanding the novice heart is the true gift. If Malcolm X took time to study the works of Lucifer, then the assault from underground would prove to be wasted emotion and energy. All this world needs is comfort in the midst of the heart's chemical spill. If you bring death to my door...I'll meet it with your rifle. Hate brings forth hate, but so does good.

Yesterday

2006-07-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's Birthdays (July 27)

Jonathan Smith (me)
Pamela Smith (mother)
Gabriel Smith (son - 2 weeks)
Jim Smith (uncle)
Claire Price (cousin)
Ben Burdette (cousin)
Hunter Ray (cousin)
Chris Curtis (friend)
A-Rod

Enter Lil' Smitty

2006-07-20T07:17:00.000-07:00

So...they said she was pregnant. They were right.

--------------------

Here are the stats of the little life that changed ours:

--------------------

Name: James Gabriel Smith

Position: son

Weight: 7 lbs 1 oz.

Length: 20 inches

College: Saint Joseph East

Years Pro: .019

---------------------

I'll be back later to share the detailed account.

Click the link to check out Gabriel's picture

Revolving Doors and Weeping Willows

2006-07-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

Did you really believe that the hyena wouldn’t deliver? I mean, he was there all day. What about that guitar pick stuck in the furniture? Better than change…right? Gifted musicians don’t need hyenas. But we could all use a break from this asinine predicament. And let me be the first to say, if the sun doesn’t shine when the seesaw tilts, then we’ve all had a bad day.

That will be all.

2006-07-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

On the road to Salvation, I stuck out my thumb and He gave me a ride.

-Rich Mullins

A Quick Acknowledgement

2006-06-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

Subtract the cosmos, and you have nothing left, except for one small detail: God, a being, a life, a mind, a heart, an inteligence, a creative personality, an essential goodness, an inexpressible beauty, a light beyond all seeing, an infinite song that by its very being gives meaning to meaning, gives glory to glory, gives life to life, a pure consciousness - pure in every since of the word.

- not me

The Kenya Chronicles: Worship & Prayer

2006-06-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to tag along with Scott to the class he was teaching at The Kenya Baptist Theological College. After the class each day of the week, the bible students would assemble in what could only be described as a "mess hall" to participate in their daily chapel service. I was incredibly blessed to be able to preach during this chapel service one day, but what I observed from the Kenyan culture in relation to their worship & prayer is what really stole my attention.

We had a brief time of worship (or singing...if your a Sokanist) before the preaching would commence. I was forced to merely observe because the songs were in Kiswahili. I watched as my African brothers and sisters truly gave glory to the Father through song and music. It was humble and rich. Honestly, it was unlike anything I had ever encountered. Not to say that I haven't been a part of great worship experiences in the states. But it is an amazing thing to hear a different culture lift up the name of Christ in a different language with no band, lights, or sound system. They worshiped with all their might. Some danced, some clapped, but all were engaged. It was truly beautiful.

An African prayer sounds much different than an American. They had such a reverence and humility to their conversational encounters with the Almighty. They poured out their hearts proudly, yet still preserved a dynamic respect for the One receiving their words. I think we are sometimes guilty of loosing that reverence that we see demonstrated by guys like David and Abraham, Noah, and Moses when verbally addressing our God. In our attempt to make Him as personal as possible (which is not a faulty endeavor) we sometimes misplace the reverence and ultimate respect that our Creator deserves. It seemed that my brothers and sisters at the KBTC knew their position in front of Yahweh. Their prayers were as beautiful as their worship. I guess it is a little easier to understand and demonstrate your status in front of Holy God when you are faced with that life and reality. I don't fully understand being in a place where God must come through if I want to continue in my reality. While listening, I had such a peace that the God of Africa heard those prayers and was moved.

I am blessed, but cursed. I am cursed, yet blessed.

The Kenya Chronicles: Kibera

2006-06-02T15:55:00.000-07:00

I saw more social injustice in the first two days of my stay than I have in my entire life. At Kibera...I saw enough to last a lifetime.

Kibera is one of the largest slums this world possesses. Home to more than a quarter of Nairobi's population, the slums of Kibera house over a million people in approximately 2 kilometers squared (1.6 kilometers = 1 mile). The average home of Kibera is about 3 meters by 3 meters (1 meter = approx. 1 yard), occupying an average of 5 people per dwelling. Living conditions are atrocious to say the very least. To be honest, when I looked out over the Kibera landscape...I had a difficult time mentally and emotionally processing what my eyes were capturing. It was like something you only see in a movie. The sight, and smell, and sounds were devastating to preconceived ideas of reality. I was far beyond being speechless...I was thoughtless. I wish I could boast of having a brilliant thought or idea, maybe a poem or inspired quote, or a passage of scripture to go alongside the socially detestable images...but I could only stare. It cannot be described, only experienced.

Despite living in squalor, the children were beautiful. Thier eyes were weary from existence and their feet were calloused from dirt packed harder than cement, but their faces glowed. It is difficult to see God in a place like Kibera. I managed to locate Him...in the faces of the children. They wave at you. They wave like everything is okay. To them, it is. That is all they know...and all they will every know. They don't yet comprehend that there is another world full of health, potential, success, futures, and luxury. It's better that they don't realize it...I think. Seeing a mzungu (white man) is a rare and exciting experience. Burned in my mind are the voices of the children of Kenya chanting "mzungu, mzungu, mzungu...how are you, how are you, how are you." As they chant for a simple acknowledgment, they wave. I waved back and smiled as if everything is okay. I know better...but, thank God, they don't.

The day I saw Kibera would have been emotionally bearable if I did not see the children...if I did not hear them ask, "How are you"...if I didn't see them chase after the car and try to jump on...if they didn't beg me to take pictures of them...if they didn't reach out and grab my hand just to walk a few steps with a white man...if I didn't see them barefoot...if I didn't see them hungry...If I didn't see them. But they were there...exactly where God had placed them.

The sights did not cause me to resent America or my reality (more on that in a later post). But they did cause me to ponder God's sovereignty. It caused me to intensely wonder why God's sovereignty placed me in Kentucky and not Kibera. I am completely deserving of that life, but I did not receive it. Why will my child (July 23) have the life he is given. Is Africa a scapegoat? Is there a solution to the poverty? Why me? Why them? Why America? Why Africa? I will attempt to unpack these questions in future posts with things that God has taught me in the past month.

Why Kibera?

It cannot be described...only experienced.

The Kenya Chronicles: Realizing the Need

2006-05-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

Because my communication with Scott was limited before I arrived in Nairobi, I didn't fully understand the primary need in Kenya. To be honest, I still don't completely understand, but after Scott informed me and I was able to see it first hand...I have a pretty good idea. The primary need in Kenya, similar to a lot of other sub-Saharian countries in Africa, is not the Gospel. Now granted, the literal gospel is needed everywhere in the world, including Kenya. But Kenya is extremely Christianized (by Christianized, I mean that they have heard and know who Christ is and what he has done for mankind). The Democratic Republic of Congo is nearly 99% Christianized. The gospel is nothing new to many Africans.

The primary needs are two-fold.

First, humanitarian work is deperately needed. The don't need your Ray Comfort track...they need your food, they need adaquate living arrangements, they need medicine, they need hope for a future (Matthew 25.31-46). I will address the humanitarian need more in a later post.

Second, they desperately need discipleship. At several of the gatherings that I preached, I asked a crowd full of believers if they knew who Philemon was...far less than a fourth raised their hands. I asked if they had heard of the apostle Paul...a fourth confirmed their knowledge of this man. Scott explained to me how incredibly weak the preaching is in these African countries. Worship is rich and reverent, but the teaching is lacking. Scott said, "They are miles wide and inches deep." In and around Nairobi, there were just as many, if not more, churches than we see in our bible belt. They are on every corner. The gospel is preached and well known by most. Several times during my trip, I thought of how silly and arrogant it is to have so many biblical resources in America that I rarely take advantage of. The leather of my six bibles at home should be worn completely off by now...instead I find myself struggling to choose which version to put in my backpact to carry with me (which usually never gets opened when I am at my various destinations). Our resources are priceless.

Don't get me wrong, there are many who still need to surrender their life to the gospel of Jesus Christ. And ultimately, the story of salvation is the primary need of this dying world. But the Kenyans don't need to hear it anymore...they need to be taught how to live it...and they need to be given the physical resources and opportunities so they can stay alive and healthy to be able to live it.

The Kenya Chronicles: American Soil

2006-05-24T06:48:00.000-07:00

I have been on American soil since Sunday afternoon. I hated to leave, but I was eager to return. My first trip out of the country was life-altering, and it is my intentions to share some (not all) of what God and a third world country taught me about existence and reality. My recent experience is dominating my thoughts, energy, and being even now, so I believe I will hibernate around this issue for a while. I hope that some of the things I relay will cause you to pause and think about life outside our box, or if you have been outside for a time, I hope that you will remember your own experience and how it changed you. I briefly stepped outside that box and witnessed a world I had only previously read about or seen in the media. I returned a different creature. Bear with me.

Remember Chandler and Andy and the Porter group in prayer as they travel to Kenya very soon.

Gone

2006-05-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

BE BACK IN 2 WEEKS

David Blaine: Drowned Alive

2006-05-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

After being buried alive for seven days, entombed in ice for three days, fasting for 44 days as he dangled from an acrylic box over London's Thames River, and perched atop a nearly ninety-foot-high, twenty-two-inch-wide pillar before plunging to street level with only cardboard boxes below to break his fall, David Blaine will again take it to the max this Monday night as he attempts to break the record for holding your breath under water. The current record is 8 minutes - 58 seconds. That's not all. Starting May 1 (yesterday), Blaine will live in a human sized aquarium for seven days before he attempts to break the nine minute mark. To prepare himself for this rugged event, Blaine has been in strict training with the Navy Seals and the World Class Free-Diving Team. In addition to this stunt, there will be more of Blaine's street magic from a casino in Las Vegas, Angola State Prison in Angola, Louisiana, and a New York art gallery. If you have never witnessed any of David Blaine's work, I encourage you to experience it. You won't believe what you are watching!

Monday, May 8 at 8:00pm on ABC

2006 NFL Draft - First Round

2006-05-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

1. Houston - Mario Williams (North Carolina State) DE
2. New Orleans - Reggie Bush (USC) RB
3. Tennessee - Vince Young (Texas) QB
4. New York Jets - D'Brickashaw Ferguson (Virginia) OT
5. Green Bay - A.J. Hawk (Ohio State) OLB
6. San Franciso - Vernon Davis (Maryland) TE
7. Oakland - Michael Huff (Texas) DB
8. Buffalo - Donte Whitner (Ohio State) DB
9. Detriot - Ernie Sims (Florida State) LB
10. Arizona - Matt Leinhart (USC) QB
11. Denver - Jay Cutler (Vanderbilt) QB
12. Baltimore - Haloti Ngata (Oregon) DT
13. Cleveland - Kamerion Wimbley (Florida State) DE
14. Philadelphia - Brodrick Bunkley (Florida State) DT
15. St. Louis - Tye Hill (Clemson) DB
16. Miami - Jason Allen (Tennessee) DB
17. Minnesota - Chad Greenway (Iowa) OLB
18. Dallas - Bobby Carpenter (Ohio State) LB
19. San Diego - Antonio Cromartie (Florida State) DB
20. Kansas City - Tamba Hali (Penn State) DE
21. New England - Laurence Maroney (Minnesota) RB
22. San Francisco - Manny Lawson (NC State) DE/LB
23. Tampa Bay - Davin Joseph (Oklahoma) OG
24. Cincinnati - Jonathon Joseph (South Carolina) DB
25. Pittsburgh - Santonio Holmes (Ohio State) WR
26. Buffalo - John McCargo (N.C. State) Utility
27. Carolina - DeAngelo Williams (Memphis) RB
28. Jacksonville - Marcedes Lewis (UCLA) TE
29. New York Jets - Nick Mangold (Ohio State) C
30. Indianapolis - Joseph Addai (LSU) RB
31. Seattle - Kelly Jennings (Miami) DB
32. NY Giants - Mathias Kiwanuka (Boston College) DE

Super Mario?

2006-04-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

North Carolina State DE, Mario Williams may have signed with the Texans today. Several reports circulating claim Bush will fall. We'll see tomarrow @ noon.

Spring Sports Notes

2006-04-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

* Good Gosh...Quit pitching to Pujols!

* I don't care about Colorado, Shaq, or Phil...Kobe is raw. The best athlete/player in the league. Kobe plays just like Mike did. You must respect it. He will be the first player to break Abdul-Jabar scoring record.

* The NCAA violation investigation that is going on at U.S.C. will not affect Reggie Bush's draft status. Bush to the Texans at 1. If they didn't take away O.J.'s heisman, they would never take away Reggie's.

* Mark my words. Jay Cutler, out of Vandy, will have a more productive NFL career than Matt Leinhart.

* A-Rod is one of the classyist athletes today. Despite your Yankeephobia, respect him.

* The 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, etc NBA Championship Series: Spurs vs. Pistons

* With the first pick of the 2006 NPWDTPHOFC (National Potheads Who Destroyed Their Potential Hall of Fame Career) League, the United Reefers select: Ricky Williams! (In case you didn't hear...he's out for another year)

* Barry will never catch Hank

* Watch out for Mario Williams,Vernon Davis, and Bobby Carpenter on Draft Day.

* I would love to see the Titans pick Vince Young.

* Favre is back. Whupty-Freakin'-Do!

* Already anticipating football season...right now, I'll take the Irish (still praying about it)

* Do they still play hockey?

Becoming Visible

2006-04-21T05:53:00.000-07:00

Go to Invisiblechildren.com and read all that you can.

Do whatever it takes to find and watch the documentary.

I have a copy that I would be glad to send around.

This is ministry.

The Cardio Thug at it Again

2006-04-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

My man Lance has decided to run the New York City Marathon in November. He said that he needed something to do since he wasn't competing professionally as a cyclist. Before his cycling career, Lance was a triathlete - so it should be very interesting come Nov. 5th.

I've got money on a top 20 finish

EASY!

Nevermind the Football...

2006-04-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

There were some young boys of the neighborhood who came together to play a game of touch football. The assembled the teams and got ready to start. One boy realized that no one had brought a football with them to the park. He spoke up, "We don't have a football!" One of his friends quickly responded, "Nevermind the football...let's start playing."

Read 1st Corinthians 15.12-19

With no football...there can never be a game.

Easier for Me to See and Say

2006-04-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

Upon contemplating Easter this year, I came to no powerful, earth-shaking revelations. I did, however, study the passion story and truly celebrate the Resurrection...I think. It was probably the first time that I had genuinely given a crap about the implications of Easter. Although not overwhelmingly inspiring or important, I did have this thought.

The Nation of Israel is usually blamed for the "murder" (I personally consider it suicide) of Jesus. The Jews have protested this for many years, and we saw the debate again arise when Gibson released his version of the story. Fact of the matter is...it was the religious elite who Scripture says was "jealous" over Jesus' fame and influence. Yes...the Jews. And they are extremely offended when they are forced to shoulder this accusation.

Here is my point:

(Understanding that they do not regard our Jesus as the Christ...the Messiah) Why can't they realize then or now that they were an intrical part in God's plan to bring salvation to a dying...excuse me, dead world. God used the Jews...His own...to call for the Lamb to be slaughtered. Instead of our accusations and their relentless defense, we should all be thrilled that God used them in that way. I am eternally grateful that they were in the right place at the right time...literally. Of course, it is easier for me to see and say because of my religious position. God used His people's ignorance to bring salvation into this world.

...and, I wonder if any of the religious leaders of that time gave up their faith and believed in the Nazarene because of the series of events that they witnessed.

A Pregnancy Update

2006-04-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

For all those interested...Melanie is doing great! She is healthy, active, and extremely positive. Never complains. To be honest, I expected to have a basketcase on my hands for nine months (mostly due to other testimonies I have heard). But it has been the exact opposite. She has become even more pleasant than she already was. I guess it is because she is quickly approaching the realization of a life-long dream...motherhood! With her patience, kind heart, and compassion...she will be an amazing mother. We are just entering the third trimester. Still sorting through names.

She is a stud.

Don't worry about me...I'll be out of denial shortly.

2006-04-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

A Bad Day for Zimri & Cozbi

2006-04-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

Read about how it pleased God to see Phinehas' discontent when his God's name was dishonored in Numbers 25.

___________________________________

The Lord said to Moses, "Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, the priest, has turned my anger away from the Israelites; for he was zealous as I am for my honor among them...

___________________________________

do this now...be moved

2006-04-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

Go to a secluded room...

Beg God for passion & emotion...

Read the story of our Lord giving up His life.

?

2006-04-01T08:33:00.000-08:00

What is The Book of the Wars of the Lord?

Moses quotes from this source in Numbers 21.14.

If we were to ever to recover it...would we add it to the canon?

"...Waheb in Suphah and the ravines, the Arnon and the
slopes of the ravines that lead to the site of Ar and lie along the border of Moab."

Trying to Trust the Spirit

2006-03-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

I struggle with the history and selection of the canon of scripture. Don't get me wrong, I do not doubt the authority and inspiration of Scripture...never have. I do, however, have difficulties with the historical process. This summer, I plan to work through some of those difficulties with intense research and study. Can anyone recommend some reliable resources. I would prefer primary sources.

2006-03-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

BABY SMITH HAS A PENIS

God is more than Relevant

2006-03-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

I heard a preacher say this from the pulpit..."God is still relevant in our complex world."

Honestly, this statement really bothered me. It implies that it is our responsibility to fit God into our complex, dynamic, fast-paced lives...like we can still, despite all we have going in this life, position the God-piece in life's puzzle. Friends, that's not how it works. It is not our duty to find a place to insert the Creator of the world into our lives. We must understand that we are blessed beyond understanding to have a tiny, almost insignificant place in God's Story. Do not flatter yourselves. To say that he is still relevant in our evolving world is to imply that God's doing a great job of holding on to our coat tails as we sprint in life's race. No sir. God is the track that we run on. He is the race. Please do not loose perspective. God is King. It is His story. God is more than relevant.

23 Tears of Joy

2006-03-11T09:33:00.000-08:00

I got a little misty after watching this...

JORDAN COMMERICAL

Empathizing with the Spirit

2006-03-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

Like the Spirit, have you every been here...?

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
It's more of a pant-like deep breath for me.
Sometimes...words get in the way of communicating with the Father.

2006-03-07T09:35:00.000-08:00

Read the CREATOR'S Blog...

not mine.

African Interceptions

2006-03-05T12:09:00.000-08:00

This morning, Jon Weece shared the testimony of some American nurses who have moved to Africa to help with the overwhelming AIDS pandemic.

As we all know, the AIDS crisis in Africa is dominating the continent. It has become so bad, that African hospitals are taking sick patients who are days away from death out in to nearby woods and leaving them to die. A group of incredibly passionate nurses from America decided they couldn't live with that going on. God blessed them with the funding to build a "death" hospital for the diseased. Many nurses have left everything they have ever known in American and moved to these AIDS infested areas of Africa. THERE PURPOSE: At night, they intercept the bodies in the woods, bring them back to this hospital, share the good news of the Gospel with them, give them a nice meal, and allow them to die in peace.

This is what it is all about.

I struggle with what someone once said to me...he said, "If you are not called to stay...then you are called to go."

We all need to pray that God would free us from our self-absorption...and allow us to give a crap about someone other than ourselves.

I am chief.

True Greatness

2006-03-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

I recently read an exceptional book that focused on dismantling the one thing that has the potential to consume my life on a daily basis...pride. On the recommendation of Mr. Keith Walters, I completed C.J. Mahaney's, Humility: True Greatness. I immediately connected with Mahaney when he offered this honest statment in the introduction, "...I could entertain you for hours relating the comments and facial expression of those who discovered I was authoring a work with this title. I understand their reaction. If I met someone presuming to have something to say about humility, automatically I'd think him unqualified to speak on the subject. So let me make this clear at the outset: I'm a proud man pursuing humility by the grace of God. I don't write as an authority on humility; I write as a fellow pilgrim walking with you on the path set for us by our humble Savior.

The book is very good. I encourage those who battle endlessly with the demon of pride to encounter Mahaney's work. It is concise and stinging. Below, are suggestions that C.J. Mahaney provides and disects throughout the course of the book.

HOW TO WEAKEN PRIDE AND CULTIVATE HUMILITY

ALWAYS:
1. Reflect on the wonder of the cross of Christ.

AS EACH DAY BEGINS:
2. Begin your day by acknowledging your dependence upon God and your need for God.
3. Begin your day expressing gratefullness to God.
4. Practice the spirtiual disciplines-prayer, study of God's Word, worship. Do this consistently each day and at the day's outset, if possible.
5. Seize your commute time to memorize and meditate on Scripture.
6. Cast your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

AS EACH DAY ENDS:
7. At the end of the day, transfer the glory to God.
8. Before going to sleep, receive this gift of sleep from God and acknowledge His pupose for sleep.

FOR SPECIAL FOCUS:
9. Study the attributes of God.
10. Study the doctrines of grace.
11. Study the doctrine of sin.
12. Play golf as much as possible.
13. Laugh often, and laugh often at yourself.

THROUGHOUT YOUR DAYS AND WEEKS:
14. Indentify evidences of grace in others.
15. Encourage and serve others each and every day.
16. Invite and pursue correction.
17. Respond humbly to trials.

Golden Ohno

2006-02-26T10:25:00.000-08:00

Apollo Anton Ohno, one of my all-time favorite Olympic athletes, won gold in Torino last night in the speedskating 500m to go along with his bronze in the 1000m. It may have been his last Olympic race...if it was...what a way to go out. He had a brilliant start from the inside position and took the lead in the first corner... and never gave it up. It was a special thing to watch. The Olympics and it's athletes are so pure and undefiled. It is a treat to watch athletes from all countries compete for respect and hardware. I look forward to Beijing.

Autistic Senior Drops 20

2006-02-25T05:07:00.000-08:00

Jason McElwain, an autistic team manager for his high school basketball team, unloaded 20 points in his team's last game of the season. Check out the story and video.

The Ranting of an Irishman

2006-02-21T09:42:00.000-08:00

If you haven't ever met my friend, Travis "T-Boney Bone" O'Whalen from Cin City...do so today. Check out his thought provoking, insanely accurate, incredibly informal rants:
The Sickness and We Suck.

Ultimate Foreshadowing

2006-02-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

While instucting Moses of what to tell Aaron and his sons regarding the issue of eating blood, my Lord reveals this subtle statement in Leviticus:

"Any Israelite or any alien living among them who eats any blood - I will set my face against that person who eats blood and will cut him off from his people. For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one's life. Therefore I say to the Israelites, None of you may eat blood, nor may an alien living among you eat blood."

Did you catch it?

God's Glory: Fat's Pleasing Aroma

2006-02-16T14:02:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since we visited an obscure manifestation of God's Glory in our world here at Smittycity. I believe you'll recall that our last encounter with God's Glory involved manure. Today we will learn of another neglected intracacy in God's Kingdom. Allow me to explain...

While reading two different books, for two different purposes, both within an hour, I made a starteling discovery that you might be interested in. Maybe not. I was reviewing the previously lectured chapter for my nutrition class. The subject was Lipids (fat). I read this: "...fat carries with it may dissolved compounds that give foods enticing aromas and flavors, such as the aroma of frying bacon or french fries. In fact, when an ill person refuses to eat, dietitons offer foods flavored with some fat to tempt that person to eat again..." So, God made fat smell good.

No more than an hour later, I read this in Leviticus (don't ask me why I was reading in Leviticus): "...the priest is to sprinkle the blood against the altar of the Lord at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and burn the fat as an aroma pleasing to the Lord." (Lev 17.6)

Very cool.

Appreciate the small things.

Don't Waste Your Cancer

2006-02-16T08:07:00.000-08:00

Piper's cancer surgery on Tuesday was flawless. It would be worth your time to read his 10 Ways to Waste Your Cancer...very compelling. Statistics say that 1 in 3 will aquire cancer. If I'm of that 33%, I hope that I can view my disease in this manner.

For Mathematicians on V-Day

2006-02-14T13:46:00.000-08:00

This equation does not apply to these three women: Melanie, Pamela, & Kathryn Smith.

Valentine's Day Simplicity

2006-02-14T08:22:00.000-08:00

A Lesson in Chili Preference

2006-02-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

I was rummaging through my parents fridge the other day with my little brother, Solomon. He was enthusiastically chattering like all 2 year olds do. We found a little of mom's white chili left in a bowl. Dibs. As I threw it into the microwave, I told my brother that white chili is the best chili in the world, and that it was better than all the rest. A beautiful assortment of white beans, chicken, herbs, and spices, white chili kicks the crap out of dark chili. It then dawned on me what I had just said to my brother. So, I quickly changed my tune. "You know, buddy, all chilis are equal in taste and experience. White chili is not better than dark chili...I like them the same." Upon further thought, I saw an opportunity to build the young man's confidence. "Come to think of it, Solomon, I think chili is ten times better when you mix white and dark chili together. It is much more exciting when you mix the two." What a teachable moment. The boy responded to my lesson with a hearty, "yaaa" (he tends to pronounce his "yes" like he's swedish). Who would have thought that I could teach my biracial brother a lesson in diversity with a simple bowl of chili?

post scrip: He understood nothing I said...and I am ridiculous.

a related quote

2006-02-08T11:57:00.000-08:00

In reference to the discussion at Marvelous Light, I dug up this quote that can significantly relate. It is from former theologian/philospher O.S. Jenkins...

"Sorrow engulfs my spirit to see and encounter characteristics of the biblical pharisee evident in this era. Like their ancestors, they have veiled their haughty, Godless attempt at piety with theological pursuits and "right thinking." We must realize, beloved, that God rejects our knowledge whether of His essence or otherwise, because true knowledge comes from His mouth, not His creation's. He longs to lift up the humble creature who seeks eternal wisdom instead of finite knowledge, for it is this man who impresses our Father. Yes, it puffs - and is considered rubbish in the eyes of Holy God."

The Shaft for Seattle and other notes

2006-02-05T18:28:00.000-08:00

After much deliberation, I chose to pull for Pittsburg. Let me rephrase...I chose to pull for Jerome. I made this decision by deciding who I would hurt more for after their loss, Shawn or Jerome. Shawn is still young.
It is the 14th straight year that a Tennessee alumni has represented a Super Bowl team.
The pregame show was fantastic thanks to Stevie Wonder. We also saw every Super Bowl MVP walk on the field...even Super Bowl I & II's Bart Starr. Very special.
Darryl Jackson did not push off enough for a pass interference call in the end zone during the first quarter. (Seatle shafted #1)
Although Bettis had a marvelous block on the goal line, Big Ben did not make it in. Don't argue. He didn't make it. (Seatle shafted #2)
The Stones were pathetic at halftime. Three halftime flops in a row.
Can you say: fast, Fast, FAST Willie Parker.
Bad call on Hasselbeck's tackle after the interception. (Seatle shafted #3)
A bad holding call on Seattle that resulted in a 14 point swing. (Seatle shafted #4)
Randle El could not have thrown a better pass to Hines Ward. Nope. It was perfect. It was beautiful.
Palamaulu and Porter were surprisingly quiet.
I hate to see anyone loose the Super Bowl...especially Shawn Alexander.
The most terribly officiated Championship game I have ever witnessed.
Hasselbeck outplayed Big Ben.
Best commerical: Budweiser's "Streaker"
Overall, a great story for Super Bowl history. BETTIS WINS SUPER BOWL XL AT HOME FACING RETIREMENT. Yeah, good story.

Another year in the books.

I can't wait until September.

(Maybe I'll write a song called, I'll Be Gone Till September)

The Irishman, quarterback, and me

2006-02-04T09:52:00.000-08:00

Please, please, please take time to read The Sickness ...a post by a extremely close friend. His name is Travis Whalen and he doesn't sleep much. Friday night, we sat up with our friend Nate the quarterback until 3 am talking about this very sickness. I came to O'Whalen that night desperately sick from the sickness...I didn't know that he had been suffering from it as well. Actually, the quarterback was ill too. The Irishman had written this brilliant post the day before, but God brought us together the night after with the same thing on our sick hearts. It was good...refreshing...sickening. Maybe you'll understand. Probably not.

A Double Standard?

2006-02-02T07:38:00.000-08:00

In the light of resent comments made by Dr. Al Mohler regarding the responsibilities of married couples (saying it is "an absolute revolt against God's design" if husbands and wives purposely avoid bearing children), I would like to present an interesting issue to the blognation for debate. Before doing so, I would like to officially support the stance that Al has made regarding this sensitive sociological (and highly biblical) assertion. I do strongly believe that if married, we are called to reproduce. Paul makes it clear in Corinthians that one is not in the wrong if he chooses not to marry (in fact, he makes an argument that you might be better off), however, if you do, I believe that God is clear in that we are to multiply. Females were given ovaries, breasts, and a variety of other child bearing organs that were exclusively created and bestowed for giving birth and rearing children. Simply put: It is a women's call. In fact, her highest call. A married woman (and man) choosing not to reproduce is like a person with feet, deciding never to walk.

But as usual, I digress.

I was reading a secular response to Al Mohler's comments in the Kentucky Kernal (U.K.'s campus newspaper) by a woman who was utterly disturbed by what this ultra-conservative Baptist had claimed. After wading through her liberal babble, she did reveal an issue that caught my attention. She claimed that Mohler was contradicting himself by saying that married women should bear children, yet also believing that the use of birth control is an accepted practice. To be honest, I have never given this topic the time of day...until now. She may have a point. Even though it didn't work like we had planned, Melanie and I have knowingly attempted to prohibit what God designed to happen by using contraceptives. So ultimately, we desired to partake in the God-given benefits of marriage while disallowing the God-given responsibility that is associated. God took Onan's life for something very similar (see Gen. 38). Honestly, I haven't established my stance on this issue, and I'm certainly not ready to condemn the use of contraceptives... but it is thought provoking. Maybe some of you can help shed light on this issue.

Post Script...To the unmarried: Please respond with a thoughful conviction. To the married: Try to look beyond your current desicions. We shouldn't automatically defend our personal practice without giving objective thought to the issue (even though you might be right on).

Super Bowl Humor

2006-02-01T20:00:00.000-08:00

A man had 50 yard line tickets for the Super Bowl. As he sits down, a man comes down and asks if anyone is sitting in the seat next to him. "No," he says, "The seat is empty." "This is incredible," said the man. "Who in their right mind would have a seat like this for the Super Bowl, the biggest sporting event in the world, and not use it?" He says, "Well, actually, the seat belongs to me. I was supposed to come with my wife, but she passed away. This is the first
Super Bowl we haven't been to together since we got married in 1987." "Oh...I'm sorry to hear that. That's terrible. But couldn't you find someone else, a friend or relative, or even a neighbor to take the seat?". The man shakes his head. "No they're all at the funeral."

Unaware Americans

2006-01-26T13:23:00.000-08:00

Dr. Al Mohler has composed a timely post regarding the ongoing, what can only be labeled as, genocide in Darfur, Sudan. I urge you to read his lenthy article...it is well worth your time. Ironically, the very first post on SmittyCity in April of last year was about this very issue. If you have time, please read Hotel Sudan.

Up For Debate

2006-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Let us dicuss the following article found in the winter edition of Leadership Magazine written by Brian McLaren. He addresses the issue of a proper "pastor-response" to homosexuality. Objectively read...then respectfully respond. I look forward to your thoughts.

"The couple approached me immediately after the service. This was their first time visiting, and they really enjoyed the service, they said, but they had one question. You can guess what the question was about: not transubstantiation, not speaking in tongues, not inerrancy or eschatology, but where our church stood on homosexuality.
That "still, small voice" told me not to answer. Instead I asked, "Can you tell me why that question is important to you?" "It's a long story," he said with a laugh.
Usually when I'm asked about this subject, it's by conservative Christians wanting to be sure that we conform to what I call "radio-orthodoxy," i.e. the religio-political priorities mandated by many big-name religious broadcasters. Sometimes it's asked by ex-gays who want to be sure they'll be supported in their ongoing re-orientation process, or parents whose children have recently "come out."
But the young woman explained, "This is the first time my fiancée and I have ever actually attended a Christian service, since we were both raised agnostic." So I supposed they were like most unchurched young adults I meet, who wouldn't want to be part of an anti-homosexual organization any more than they'd want to be part of a racist or terrorist organization.
I hesitate in answering "the homosexual question" not because I'm a cowardly flip-flopper who wants to tickle ears, but because I am a pastor, and pastors have learned from Jesus that there is more to answering a question than being right or even honest: we must also be . . . pastoral. That means understanding the question beneath the question, the need or fear or hope or assumption that motivates the question.
We pastors want to frame our answer around that need; we want to fit in with the Holy Spirit's work in that person's life at that particular moment. To put it biblically, we want to be sure our answers are "seasoned with salt" and appropriate to "the need of the moment" (Col. 4; Eph. 4).
Most of the emerging leaders I know share my agony over this question. We fear that the whole issue has been manipulated far more than we realize by political parties seeking to shave percentage points off their opponent's constituency. We see whatever we say get sucked into a vortex of politicized culture-wars rhetoric--and we're pastors, evangelists, church-planters, and disciple-makers, not political culture warriors. Those who bring us honest questions are people we are trying to care for in Christ's name, not cultural enemies we're trying to vanquish.
Frankly, many of us don't know what we should think about homosexuality. We've heard all sides but no position has yet won our confidence so that we can say "it seems good to the Holy Spirit and us." That alienates us from both the liberals and conservatives who seem to know exactly what we should think. Even if we are convinced that all homosexual behavior is always sinful, we still want to treat gay and lesbian people with more dignity, gentleness, and respect than our colleagues do. If we think that there may actually be a legitimate context for some homosexual relationships, we know that the biblical arguments are nuanced and multilayered, and the pastoral ramifications are staggeringly complex. We aren't sure if or where lines are to be drawn, nor do we know how to enforce with fairness whatever lines are drawn.
Perhaps we need a five-year moratorium on making pronouncements. In the meantime, we'll practice prayerful Christian dialogue, listening respectfully, disagreeing agreeably. When decisions need to be made, they'll be admittedly provisional. We'll keep our ears attuned to scholars in biblical studies, theology, ethics, psychology, genetics, sociology, and related fields. Then in five years, if we have clarity, we'll speak; if not, we'll set another five years for ongoing reflection. After all, many important issues in church history took centuries to figure out. Maybe this moratorium would help us resist the "winds of doctrine" blowing furiously from the left and right, so we can patiently wait for the wind of the Spirit to set our course.
Later that week I got together with the new couple to hear their story. "It's kind of weird how we met," they explained. "You see, we met last year through our fathers who became . . . partners. When we get married, we want to be sure they will be welcome at our wedding. That's why we asked you that question on Sunday."
Welcome to our world. Being "right" isn't enough. We also need to be wise. And loving. And patient. Perhaps nothing short of that should "seem good to the Holy Spirit and us." "

Props

2006-01-21T19:28:00.000-08:00

We love Bruce Pearl !

Tennessee 80 Florida 76

Super Bowl Bandwagon

2006-01-21T05:20:00.000-08:00

Well...Peyton is at home doing his laundry right about now. Marvin is playing Madden '06 with Reggie, and Edgerrin is walking his dog. Vanderjagt is, of course, Bill Cowering in a deep deep hole somewhere...and I am still mourning. The stars couldn't have been more alligned for the Baby Horses.

If your like me and your team is not one of the remaining four. It is ok. We must pick a team to pull for on Sunday. Quickly, jump on a bandwagon so that you are not left teamless as the football season comes to an end. It is not near as fun to watch a game with out a team to live and die for. Me? I'm going with the Steelers. Many wonder why I have chosen them...after all, they destroyed the dreams of the Peytonites. One word, my friends: Bettis. Jerome is an incredibly classy guy who has been in the league for a long time. He is ready to retire, and will, if he can get the one thing he doesn't have after all those years of driving his bus through defensive lines. A ring...THE RING. So, come with me and jump the bandwagon of a true Hall Of Famer...one who derserves it more than anybody. I don't know what bandwagon you will choose. But as for me, I'm taking The Bus.

No SOUPer Bowl For You!

2006-01-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

I was listening to my main man, Dan Patrick, the other day. He reported an interesting story that I thought was worth telling ya'll.

Do you remember the streaker from the Pittsburg/Cleveland football game a couple of months ago. If not...it was your typical incident. Some fool wakes an incredibly bored crowd (Pitt. was leading 41-0) by prancing around the field and dodging the old, overweight security guards. The scene ended when a Pittsburg linebacker bodyslammed the nudist...allowing security to catch up, take a couple of deep breaths from their oxygen tanks, tighten thier Depends, and escort the man off the field. Well, this dude was given his sentence by an Ohio judge last week. He received three days in jail. Not just any three days...he is to be locked up Feb. 4, 5, & 6. Of course, the 5th being SuperBowl Sunday. The judge told the man that he can not watch the game, nor can he listen to it on the radio in his cell. Harsh. I don't know what I would do with my life if my SuperBowl rights were taken away. I guess I need to cure my habitual streaking fetish. But that is a different post. I'm out.

19 Things to Ponder

2006-01-17T14:26:00.000-08:00

1. Who was the first person to look at a cow and say: "I think I'll sqeeze these dangly things here and drink whatever comes out of them!"
2.Who was the first person to say, "See that chicken there... I'm gonna eat the next thing that comes out of it's butt."
3. Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp which no decent human would eat?
4. Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer ?
5. If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares...then why is there a stupid song about it ?
6. Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in a carpool lane ?
7. If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat ?
8. Why do people point to their wrist when asking for the time, but don't point to their crotch when they ask for a bathroom?
9. Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!
10. If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, then what is baby oil made of?
11. If electricity comes from electrons, does morality come from morons?
12. Why do the "Alphabet" song and "Twinkle Twinkle little star" have the same tune?
13. Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet Soup?
14. Why is that when someone tells you there are over a billion stars in the universe, you believe them. But if they tell you there is wet paint somewhere you have to touch to make sure?
15. Why does your OB-GYN leave the room when you get undressed if they are going to look up there anyway?
16. If Wile E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that Acme crap why didn't he just buy dinner?
17. Is Disney World the only people trap operated by a mouse?
18. Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?
19. Does pushing the elevator button more than once make it arrive faster?

The T.P.

2006-01-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

This book, being the first I have read in 2006, trumps the many that I read in the previous year. In fact, I believe that The Treasure Principle might have jumped onto my all-time list. I challenge all of you to take about 2 hours out of your life and knock out this simple, yet powerful, mini-treatise on our responsibility as believers to give to the Kingdom of God. If it were my call...I would force every believer to read it. This book has opened a new world for me; a world where followers of Christ invest exclusively into the things that will reap a return in Glory...and not in our present habitat. The book cost ten bones at Family and Lifeway...well worth it's message. Giving has been one of the many sour spots in my walk with the Creator. But using Alcorn, God has clearly exposed my inadiquate heart and fueled an incredible desire to properly manage what God has entrusted to me. Give it a chance...Randy Alcorn (ultimately Jehovah) will blast a hole in your perception of giving. A hole that most desperately need. I sure did.

...a brief look at the...

Treasure Principle

You can't take it with you - but you can send it on ahead.

Treasure Principle Keys

1. GOD OWNS EVERYTHING. I'M HIS MONEY MANAGER.

We are the managers of the assets God has entrusted - not given - to us.

2. MY HEART ALWAYS GOES WHERE I PUT GOD'S MONEY.

Watch what happens when you reallocate your money from temporal things to eternal things.

3. HEAVEN, NOT EARTH, IS MY HOME.

We are citizens of "a better country - a heavenly one."

(Hebrews 11:16)

4. I SHOULD LIVE NOT FOR THE DOT BUT FOR THE LINE.

From the dot - our present life on earth - extends a line that goes on forever, which is eternity in heaven.

5. GIVING IS THE ONLY ANTIDOTE TO MATERIALISM.

Giving is a joyful surrender to a greater person and a greater agenda. It dethrones me and exalts Him.

6. GOD PROSPERS ME NOT TO RAISE MY STANDARD OF LIVING, BUT TO RAISE MY STANDARD OF GIVING.

God gives us more money than we need so we can give - generously.

At age 20, Jim Elliot wrote:

2006-01-08T12:50:00.000-08:00

" 'Some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame' (1 Corinthians 15.34). And they must hear. The Lord is bearing hard upon me the need of the unreached millions in Central Asia. What a high calling is offered any who will pray, 'Send me.'

Our young men are going into the professional fields because they don't 'feel called' to the mission field. We don't need a call; we need a kick in the pants. We must begin thinking in terms of 'going out,' and stop our weeping because 'they won't come in.' Who wants to step into an igloo? The tombs themselves are not colder than the churches. May God send us forth."

2006-01-03T08:23:00.000-08:00

In response to my previous post, Dave Blake has offered what I think is the definitive answer to the question that I proposed about morality and legalism. I would love to hear your opinions...but please make an effort to read Dave's post on the issue before you formulate your comment. Thank you.

The Abandonment of Something

2005-12-31T07:02:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to discuss the following issue for quite some time. I hope that this post can spark some lively debate...although no one will ever see the 50 comment mark that J. Sok set with that forbidden Christmas issue. Anyway, this post is either about morality or legalism...I'll leave it up to you to decide which one.

The results are staggering when you compare the former generation to the one we are existing in now. The same would be true if you were to look at our parents generation compared to our grandparents. Times change...people change...the church changes...and spirituality evolves. So many things are different now than they were one hundred years ago...heck...even twenty years ago. Pondering this issue has caused me to run upon a roadblock that I am truly struggling with. Enough with the preface...here is the meat of the discussion: Within the past two weeks and at different times, I have been in the company of good christian people who were drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco, and gambling. I look back at those encounters and realize that I thought nothing of it. There is a dilemma with this experience. If this were thirty years ago...say in the 70's...there would be major problems with this kind of living. Not only would you be looked down upon, but your Christianity probably would have been a joke to most. If this were sixty years ago, It would be sinful for one to even think about someone doing these things...much less taking part. But now, at the end of 2005, I was in the presence of christians fully devoted to the Kingdom of God who were drinking, smoking, and gambling...and no one thought twice about it.

It seems to me that something is being abandoned.

Option number one is to believe that the morality of believers is slowing falling by the wayside. As the generations pass, we become more and more tolerant of the things of this world. Plain and simple: morality is being abandoned.

Option number two is to believe that we are abandoning legalism. We have realized that socially drinking, smoking, and gambling are as bad and morally wrong as drinking coke, eating candy, and playing the stock market. Plain and simple: We're free in Christ...and He doesn't care.

So are we abandoning legalism or morality?

Is it a mix of the two? My grandfather (who is one of the most godly men I know) would probably have a heart attack if he knew of the things that surrounded me regularly. Is that a problem...or do we just chalk it up to being a part of the "old school?" I would love to know what everyone thinks on this issue. I believe that it is something that we should think long and hard about. Try not to merely spout off the first thing that comes to your mind...think about it. I appreciate your comments.

A Blue Christmas

2005-12-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure Elvis was a Colts fan.

DETROIT OR BUST!

Darlene's Perm

2005-12-22T16:01:00.000-08:00

I am deeply in love with Colin Cowherd. You know...radio talk show host with ESPN, Monday thru Friday from 10 am to 1 pm (your welcome for the plug, Herd). Anyway, he is the most funny and straight-forward commentator I have ever heard. His wit is unmatched. But...he cut me deep today. Here is the short story.

Herd is bashing UFC...Ultimate Fighting Championship. He is claiming that the boys that grow up and fight like this are the ones who zipped up their cats in duffle bags and threw them on top of Kroger. He said that the only people who watch UFC are people living in Gary, Indiana and Middle of Nowhere, Kentucky...guys who fight over Darlene, who has a cold sore and a permenent...guys who go strut at their alma mater's football games five years after they graduated.

Here's my problem. I really enjoy the UFC. For some reason, even though I have to turn my head when a nose gets broken, I love to see two dummys beat each other senseless. It is genuinely entertaining for me. I live in Nicholasville...I love Nicholasville. I graduated with a hot slimmie named Darlene, who I swear, had a perm. And I still rock my decorated letter jacket to the games on Friday night.

You cut me deep, Herd.

I love my world.

The Soup of Campbell

2005-12-21T15:01:00.000-08:00

Dave is back, and he wanted me to let everyone know. Link him at www.soupbean.blogspot.com. He's soupier than ever. Peace.

Straddling the Tookie Fence

2005-12-15T13:38:00.000-08:00

No need to explain who Tookie is. We all know what went down Tuesday morning at 12:01. I watched the HBO film entitled Redemption starring Jamie Foxx (Mr. Williams' life story) that same day, but you never really know how acurate those movies are...much like Hurricane with Denzel. Tookie's life before prison was packed with more sex, drugs, and violence than you or I could ever imagine. I once read the autobiography of Sanyika Shakur who, like Stanley Williams, was an ex-L.A. gang member. The words on the pages were horrific...to say the least. I was about eighteen when I attempted to read it. By the mid-way point, I was too disturbed to continue. I took the book to a trash can somewhere in Lexington and threw it in. Later, I returned to fetch it out because I remembered that I had been using a twenty dollar bill as a bookmark...but I digress. The lives of these men were insanely appalling and deserved to be punished, which they were. I would, however, like to briefly discuss two issues.

If Redemption is completely accurate (which I truly doubt it is)...then I must say that the original intent of Stanley Williams and his friend, when founding the organization that later became known as the Cryps, was a noble and understandable cause. These men came from a place where you could not take your life for granted. It was a struggle to stay alive, much less, healthy and prosperous. In the movie, it is explained that Tookie started the group for protection...protection for themselves, family, and friends. Why? Because they desperately needed it. You as Lexingtonians and myself as a Nicholasvillian have no idea of the life this culture is forced to live. Who wouldn't be completely terrified to drive through an area like Harlem, or Cabrinin Green, East St. Louis, or Compton...TRY LIVING THERE. To be honest, I would feel the same need for some sort of protection if I were in their shoes. When the government regards you as a "self-cleaning oven," then you are forced to fend for yourselves. The lives of the people involved in this scene are uncomprehendable. I took in an ex-gang member from New York for quite some time...actually a close friend. I was literally speechless after the stories he would tell me. We assign valor to groups of people or communities who do this very thing but with different situations (like war). At what lengths would you go to ensure the safetly of you and your loved ones? Now, I will say, the evolution of the original creation is vile beyond belief. Do not think that I believe otherwise. (Keep in mind that this all depends on whether the testimony of Redemption is accurate). Let's move on.

Capital Punishment. Right or Wrong? I'll go ahead and tell you that I ride the fence on this issue. I grew up a stanchly conservative baptist which naturally leads to a stanchly pro-capital punishment conviction. I never questioned it...never really gave it the time of day...until I saw a bumper sticker that said this:

We kill people who kill people to teach them that killing people is wrong.

This is a logical argument. However, I know that a lot of things in Scripture are not logical. I also see in Scripture that Jesus taught mercy and grace and forgiveness. Honestly, I can't see the Son of God pulling the lever or inserting the needle. But I do understand what the Old Testament teaches. Take this verse in Exodus for example: "Whoever sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed, for in the image of God made He man." In fact, I found it beneficial to read this article by John McArthur. I just don't know. I understand that their is no confusion in the mind of God, but it seems that the Old and New Testaments teach different principles on the matter. I must also keep in mind that in Romans 13, Paul teaches that we must obey and respect the governing authorities.

Anyway, what I would like from the blognation is a one word comment. I would rather not have to read any dissertations...that is what your blog is for. But I would appreciate your opinion expressed in one of three words, "pro" "anti" or "fence." I think it would be interesting to see where the blognation stands. Thank you for your time.

Bush 2005

2005-12-11T12:00:00.000-08:00

Reggie runs away with the Heisman...no pun intended. In the most lopsided Heisman trophey vote of all time, Reggie Bush becomes the first non-quarterback in six years to win the award. I would have placed our child's college fund on Reggie this year. I know a lot of people...and I don't know a single person who is more fanatical and knowledgable of college football than yours truly. That preface was for the following statment: He is the most dynamic and electric college football player I have ever witnessed in my lifetime ('my lifetime' being the key phrase). Heisman winning quarterbacks have a rugged NFL history...for some reason they don't transition to the elite league well. Running backs and utility backs do not have this problem. Reggie will be a NFL star and I can't wait to see it (prbably going to the Jets or Texans). I am officially on his bandwagon. Actually, I jumped on his bandwagon when he put up 513 all-purpose yards against Fresno State (who almost knocked off the juggernaut, USC).

Here is the voting breakdown:

• Bush received 85 percent of possible first-place votes (784 out of 923) -- the highest percentage ever.

• Bush was named on 99 percent of the returned ballots (884 out of 892) -- the highest percentage in history.

• Young received the most second-place votes in history -- on a percentage basis.

• Leinart received the most third-place votes in history -- on a percentage basis.

• There has never been a more lopsided vote in Heisman history (the top 3 garnered the highest percentage of possible points ever.

A Lifechange @ 10:30

2005-12-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

My life changed forever at 10:30 am on Wednesday, November 16th. As you all probably know by now, my wife is expecting. I just wanted to give an update on our condition and tell briefly the story of how we found out.

I came home from a brutal day on the farm on Monday the 14th. I walked in the front door, half-heartedly said "hello" to my wife, and began doing a load of laundry. I wasn't in the mood for conversation or QT...I just wanted to relax. As I separated my clothes, I began to subtly lecture Melanie about our financial situation. I explained that we needed an emergency fund aside from our savings account as described and recommended by Mr. Dave Ramsey (thank you Dave Blake). I rambled on for quite sometime while she sat next to the heater staring at the tv. When I finished my discourse, tears began to well up in her eyes. She said a sentence that I will never forget, "Jonathan, I think we might need that emergency fund quicker than you thought." At that moment, I knew what was happening. I don't quite know how I knew...but I did. I pretended like I was clueless. She then explained some "woman" problems that she had been dealing with lately, all the while fighting back tears. I had never in my life been speechless before that moment. After about 5 minutes of silence, I told her that we needed to go to Wal-mart and get a home pregnancy test right then and there. She pulled the postive test out of a bag and flipped it to me. Mel told me that an ovarian sist could alter the results of the test....she had had an ultrasound a couple of weeks before because of a sist that the doctor found. I hate to admit this, but we held out hope. I sent her to have blood work done the next day (tuesday). Results wouldn't be in until the next morning. I didn't go into work on Wednesday...just laid in bed waiting for the call. At 10:30, she called and said that the doctor prescribed prenatal vitamins for her. A lifechange at 10:30.

Over two weeks have past and we are just getting through the initial shock of it all. Our emotions are settling and we are getting excited about what's to come. Were thinking of names. The thing that keeps me up at night is the fact that I'm bringing a child into a world that I don't have a grasp on yet. As for my beautiful bride, she can't get enough sleep. That crazy girl is always exhausted. I'll come home at 9 o'clock and she has been in bed for an hour. One of our main focuses right now is keeping her healthy. If she's healthy, the child is too. A close friend of mine told me this, "Smitty...God wants this child in the world at this precise time, and He desires for you and Melanie to bear it. Have full confidence in that and don't doubt it for a second." Honestly, that is all we're holding on to right now. God has blessed my wife and I with an phenomenal supporting cast of family and friends. If you have a chance...lift up Melanie in your prayers as she brings lil' smitty (or smittie) into the world.

If you have wondered whether or not we will make it. Have full confidence - My God equips those he calls.

2005-11-20T14:28:00.000-08:00

MELANIE IS PREGNANT