A great read.

I highly recommend reading this and taking it to heart.

The Highlighter [Job 5 - Psalm 55]

I've read through Psalm 55 since I've last updated on this. Here are a few things that jumped off the page and slapped me in the face...

Job 8:14-15
What he trusts in is fragile;
what he relies on is a spider's web.
He leans on his web, but it gives way
he clings to it, but it does not hold.

We must rely on God. Anything else...and we'll fall.

Job 17:9 Nevertheless, the righteous will hold to their ways, and those with clean hands will grow stronger.

Job 28:28 The fear of the Lord - that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.

Psalm 5:8
Lead me, O LORD, in your righteousness
because of my enemies-
make straight your way before me.

Psalm 14:5b for God is present in the company of the righteous.

Psalm 25:3 No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame,

Psalm 28:8 The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.

Psalm 49:20 A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish.

This is the last verse of a great chapter, one that I've been in and out of a lot the past few months. This is a great chapter about how worthless the worldly possessions we seek really are. It's been very helpful to Jenny and I as we are still seeking employment for her. We know God will take care of us, we just need to stop trusting in our "stuff."

It's a Tech World we live in...

Before I begin, let me just say that I AM NOT against texting, I do text as many of you with my number can testify to. So please don't think otherwise, hopefully this post just gets us thinking about the pros and cons of texting/technology.

I recently commented on my mom's blog post regarding the impact technology has on our writing and relationships.

Below is a video taken from the today show about teens who gave up technology for 10 days, it's worth a watch. Note: Video expires in a few days and will be unwatchable.



Hat tip to Chris (no, not me) for the video.

What do you guys think? Does technology affect us negatively without us realizing it? What differences would you see in the world around you if everybody completed this 10 day challenge? I'd love to discuss...

The Highlighter [Nehemiah 1 - Job 4]

I hope these passages will bless you as much as they have blessed me...

Nehemiah 8:10b This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.

The joy of the LORD is our strength. One might ask "How can the joy of the LORD be our strength?" Look, we are blessed. It is often times really easy to focus only on the negative (I'm probably speaking to myself here more than anybody else). I have a house, I have wonderful friends, I have a loving family, and God is great for showering me with such wonderful blessings! I know that when my time on earth here is done, I'm going to be with my heavenly father. That gives me an "uber" amount of joy! This joy helps get me through the rough patches of life. This joy is my strength!

Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?

Still, one of the most powerful sermons I've heard came from this verse and it was titled "for such a time as this."

Job 1:22, 2:10b In all this, Job did not sin

Whenever you see a repeated phrase in a section of the Bible - it's important. Even though Job suffered through many tough situations, he didn't sin. Whenever you see a repeated phrase in a section of the Bible - it's important. Even if we are going through a period of bad luck, we should always do what we know is right. Whenever you see a repeated phrase in a section of the Bible - it's important. Let's take this lesson from Job and do the right thing NO MATTER WHAT! Whenever you see a repeated phrase in a section of the Bible - it's important.

The Highlighter [2 Kings 24 - Ezra 10]

I missed the past two weeks doing this. I wish I had a great excuse, I just flat out forgot. Thankfully, I was able to catch up and get back on pace to where I should be.

I'll limit what I log since so many chapters are covered...

1 Chronicles 11:9 And David became more and more powerful, because the LORD Almighty was with him.

When we have the LORD on our side, we can do great things!

1 Chronicles 28:9 If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.

2 Chronicles 2:5b because our God is greater than all other gods.

Just a friendly reminder :-)

2 Chronicles 7:17 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

1. Humble themselves
2. Pray
3. Seek God
4. Repent from their ways

Doing those 4 things will change your life! I promise. We we do this we will realize how great God is and how much we need him. Once we come to that realization, HE will take care of the rest.

2 Chronicles 20:17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.


Ezra 3:3 Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the LORD, both the morning and the evening sacrifices.

I love that they did this "despite their fear." Imagine what we, as Christians, could accomplish if we didn't let our fear hold us back. How many times are we worried about "the peoples around us" and what they might say or think about us? Let's worship God always, and not let our fear stop us from glorifying HIM.

Victory!

Congrats to the 2009 UNC Tar Heels!



I must admit, in all my years of watching basketball, I don't recall a team that was as fun to watch as this team, regardless of what uniform the team wore. These guys could beat you outside and/or beat you inside. You really didn't want to get out of your chair when watching this team, you never know when they could score 10 pts in 45 seconds. They've done it before. More than once.

Three of the five starters were legitimate 20 point threats. Danny Green was not to be ignored either, as a 15 point threat. Thompson started, but he and Davis teamed up to man the 4 spot exceptionally.

But, contrary to what the world has been told, this wasn't just an offense only type team. I realize this team won't go down in history as the best defensive team in the world, but they could play defense better than the media gave them credit for (did you watch them in the tourney?). Plus, call me a homer, and I'm probably going to get ridiculed for saying this, but I really think if Marcus Ginyard, the Heels' best defensive player, played this year we'd be talking about an undefeated season **GASP** But we'll never know so I guess we'll just leave it at that.

It was a fantastic run for Psycho T's senior class, as they went deeper into the tourney each year. This year, it was tournament dominance at it's finest. Every win was by 12 or more points. Of the 240 minutes played in the tournament, the Heels had the lower score for only 9 total minutes, 6-7 of those minutes belong to LSU.

Many excuses were handed out towards this team. Hansbrough's "regression" from last year, Lawson's toe, a handful of injuries in December-January, and don't get me wrong, some of those were huge issues, but in the end, this team was special. This team stood out. This team was the last standing.

I'm looking forward to the defense of the title. Ginyard will be back, taking a medical redshirt this past year. I have high expectations for Zeller and Davis. Zeller, the big 7 footer, probably won't be as dominate as Hansbrough, but plays a similar style as Psycho T does. He's good on the boards and has great touch around the rim. Davis, at times, I felt like should be starting over Deon Thompson. But who am I to second guess coach Roy? I can't wait to see Davis when he is getting more minutes next year. Joining them in the post next season will be 5 star recruit John Henson, the 6-10/200 pounder that averages 24 points a game in High school. 6-10, 200 pounds! I don't know what it is, but those long, skinny players are always exciting to watch.

Dexter Strickland is a 5 star guard we have coming in. He's labeled as a good scorer who can play the 2 guard. His noted strength is his ability to drive to the rack under heavy amounts of traffic. It's always nice to have someone on the court who isn't afraid of traffic. Pulling up and hitting a jumper is often an effective way of scoring, but you have to make sure that that doesn't translate into laziness, which would be a huge problem on the offensive side of the ball.

Leslie McDonald isn't rated as high as Strickland, but he is a multi-positional guard who can play the 2, or the point. Roy will possibly redshirt McDonald, but that is just a guess.

These guards will have to share time with Ginyard (assuming Ginyard isn't playing the 3. He'll probably play wherever he needs to be to matchup with the opponents best offensive player) and also have to split time with Larry Drew II and Justin Watts. Drew II is a good distributing point guard. I predict he'll be an All-American at some point down the road. I rally don't know what to think about Justin Watts (besides that he is heavier than John Henson, while being 5 inches shorter). There were a few games when Watts got 10 minutes of playing time, in one game he scored 9 points in 11 minutes. But, even though he only gets garbage minutes, he has a lot of turnovers. On the season he has 9 turnovers, 5 assists and that is unacceptable. Most likely, I'd say, many of these newly recruited freshmen guards will start out ahead of him on the depth chart. Watts might be looking at having a career full of garbage minutes. We'll see what happens though.

Last, but definitely not least, come the twins. David and Travis Wear, both listed at 6-9/225. They come from the other side of the country, California...turning down a scholarship from most PAC-10 schools to play for the Heels. Travis is kind of like a Robert Horry/Jawad Williams player - he's good inside but you have to cover him outside too, he's got a good perimeter shot. David is the same type of player, but his range isn't quite as deep as his brother's. Good, but not as good. David is probably the better defender though. We'll probably see these guys playing the 3, maybe shifting to the 4 occasionally.

But the one I'm most excited about won't come this year, but next year. We have coming in Reggie Bullock, one of the best high school guards and best high school shooters in the class of 2010. Two years from now, this squad is gonna look exceptional.

Congrats to a great season!

Everyday is a holiday...

I know it's not Christmas season. But it IS Easter time in a week or so. Thought this video might inspire you as much as it did me.

God Bless

The Highlighter [2 Kings 5 - 2 Kings 23]

I missed 2 days this week. So forgive me for being a bit behind. But here is what God has blessed me with this week:

2 Kings 5:15 Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God. He stood before him and said, "Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel..."

Here, really it is the order of events that particularly jumps out at me. I've always thought it was cool that in order to be healed he had to humble himself. In typical fashion, I'm getting of the subject of this verse a little bit, but I've always been fascinated how much spiritual growth occurs simply by humbling ourselves. When we acknowledge how big God is then we see a huge need for him in our lives.

2 Kings 17:7-8 All this took place because the Israelites had sinned against the LORD their God, who had brought them up out of Egypt from under the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt. They worshiped other gods and followed the practices of the nations the LORD had driven out before them, as well as the practices that the kings of Israel had introduces.

I can't remember who originated this statement, but there is a quote out there that says "You can either live for God or die for yourself." The LORD judged the people of Israel because they copied the surrounding nations and worshiped other gods and welcomed pagan customs. God has never given us a reason not to trust him, yet we often turn out back on him. So here, we see exactly why Israel was exiled, because of their sin.

2 Kings 17:15 ...They followed worthless idols and themselves became worthless...

I love this description of what happens when we follow other Gods in our life. We become worthless. The other idols that we chase are worthless, and we become worthless too. This one verse can preach many sermons.

2 Kings 17:18 ...removed them from his presence...

Wow, powerful.

2 Kings 17:37 You must always be careful to keep the decrees and ordinances, the laws and commands he wrote for you.

Just a friendly reminder that we could all use everyday :-)

2 Kings 17:41 Even while these people were worshiping the LORD, they were serving their idols.

One of the most powerful lessons I have taught to this day combined this verse with "no one can serve to masters". While this verse may seem kind of weird at first, we do it all the time. We claim to follow God with all of our heart yet we also have our secret sins and addictions. We must give the LORD 100% of our life.

2 Kings 19:19 Now, O LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all kingdoms on earth may know that you alone, O LORD, are God.

I love Hezekiah, he's one of my favorite Old Testament characters. His prayer is also a great and powerful prayer. A good one to mark! I won't go into the many reasons why, but trust me that if you read it you will be blessed.



God Bless!

What's happening?

Time to spill the beans on what has been happening the past 2 weeks.

I wish there was some great, aesthetic way of saying this. Unfortunately, I'm not much of a word doctor. Jenny's school is letting her go. It has nothing to do with job performance. But due to tough economic times in the school, they decided to let her, and 7 other teachers go (the 8 teachers with least experience).

It's been almost exactly a year ago (March 15, 2008) when we moved into our beloved home. She and I both had a respectable income and we were as happy as can be.

Needless to say, a little has changed. We feel pretty confident that Jenny can get another teaching job. We've talked to a few people "high up the ladder" who claim that there won't be much movement, but there still should be some. She's already had an interview with another school. If this works out then we'll be looking at several thousand dollars less in salary.

I'm not asking for a pity party. We'll be fine. We'll be cutting back on some of our expenses, but don't worry. Neither of us have ever been big spenders and we don't plan on changing that. Just give us the necessities and we'll be happy. We've done some tweaking on our family budget and (if Jenny gets this lesser paying job) it looks like we can keep the house.

I haven't been in the ministry "business" very long, but one thing I've noticed is how people's theology will change based on life experiences. The biggest and best example I can think of is the case with divorce/remarriage. I'll hear very humble, Godly people have a pretty firm stance on what they believe regarding divorce and remarriage. But then it happens to them (or someone close to them) and their stance completely changes.

I now read political blogs a little differently. I read various blog posts about the economy and the analysis of our leaders' attempts to fix it. I would casually read statements like "80% of the foreclosures in the past year are a result of buying a house one cannot afford, not the economy". I used to have a big soapbox about the spending habits of America. How it has become a cultural norm to spend more in a year than a family makes.

I would usually end that soapbox with this video.

My stance hasn't changed on that. Even though our income will be significantly less, we plan on strictly following our family budget and saving close to 7-10% of our income, not counting retirement.

No, my stance hasn't changed, just how I read political blogs. The economy is affecting those who make good financing choices too.

I'll end by reciting a statement from a week and a half ago: I worry about what I can control. Not what I can't.

We can't control what happened to Jenny. But we can control how we respond to it.

Anybody know of any teacher openings in the Lowndes County area?

Spring Training

I don't do this much. Not near as much as I should. But instead of babbling about my opinions I figured I might just share my adventurous trip to Florida to catch some MLB Spring Training. This is pretty much an annual trip for me, but this is my first time doing it with someone else and also my first time making it a multiple day trip.

This past Monday I met John in Florida for 4 games. He had seen some the previous few days, but I joined him Monday-Wednesday. Two of the four games were Braves vs. Mets. We also squeezed in the Cardinals vs. Tigers on Monday and the Pirates vs. Yankees on Tuesday.



The weather was nearly perfect. The sun wasn't blasting on us, but spent the majority of the week behind the clouds. A slight breeze was the perfect touch.



I got Terry Pendleton's autograph.



Of course, I accomplished many things that I hoped I would. I saw Tommy Hanson pitch. And I saw Freeman and Heyward hit.

On Hanson:

Obviously I'm not a major league scout. But I saw pretty much what I expected to see. Hanson (along with Heyward) is an enourmous dude. He's listed at 6'6" but after seeing him in person with many other players on the field, I think they might need to remeasure. This heighth has its pros and cons. One of the main cons: Hanson has to work much harder to get the ball down (since he is so tall).

Throughout his outing the Mets were spanking Tommy Hanson pitches to the warning track. He, true to form, was up in the zone and the Mets were teeing off, especially in the first few innings. While only one of them was a homer, it certainly raises an eyebrow that batters frequently were hitting it very hard and very far (albeit many were outs.) I shared with John my concern about what might happen if Hanson were to start in Colorado, Houston, Philly, Texas, or any other HR friendly park.

I'm kind of ignoring the fact that Beltran and Delgado weren't in the lineup. That would only add to my worries.

Of course, I have just as many positive things to say about what I saw in Hanson. That Curveball....WOW!!!! It reminds me of that big, whooping Barry Zito curveball that we would see 5 years ago, only from the other side.

I have a picture of Hanson pitching...but haven't uploaded it yet. Just pretend it's here.

Now, onto Heyward. Heyward only got 3 at-bats (I think) in the 2 Braves games I saw. All 3 of those at-bats have something in common - he crushed the ball. He didn't always reach safely but everything he hit was hard and loud. If I were an infielder I would fear a Jason Heyward groundball. If I were a thirdbaseman (or first) then my knees would shake knowing that Heyward can get that ball to my teeth in less than half a second.

I'd certainly like to watch those kind of outs more than the patented "Frenchy popup" or the even more frustrating "swing-and-miss-at-a-helmet-high-fastball" Even if Heyward wasn't in the equation, Frenchy should still have to earn his at-bats. But if Heyward gets to Mississippi and puts up huge numbers while Frenchy hits a weak .230 with the big club then we'll have some drama.

Once again, I have a picture of Heyward batting, but its on my other camera. Pretend it is here...

This is just off the top of my head, so if I'm inaccurate then forgive me, but I really think the leader in hits amongst the games I saw was Schafer. I don't see us carrying all 3 of Anderson/Blanco/Schafer. All 3 have their ups and downs, it'll be interesting to see what Cox/Wren decide. I have my opinion, but I suppose another post would be more appropriate for that.

You guessed it...my picture of Schafer will go here.

Anyways, I had a glorious time at Spring Training this week. Special thanks to John Wright for coming with me.

The Highlighter [1 Kings 4 - 2 Kings 4]

Here's what blessed me in my reading this week...I'm not going to give a lot of commentary this week, but there is little doubt that these verses stuck out to me for a number of reasons.

1 Kings 8:51 for they are your people and your inheritance,

1 Kings 8:61 But our hearts must be fully committed to the LORD our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time.

I pray that God helps me be fully committed. Not partially or halfway, but fully. It's easy to commit to God part of our hearts...but giving him all of it requires sacrifices that we are often unwilling to make.

1 Kings 9:4 As for you, if you walk before me in integrity of heart and uprightness, as David your father did, and do all I command and observe my decrees and laws, I will establish your royal throne over Israel forever, as I promised David your father when I said, 'You shall never fail to have a man on the throne of Israel.

1 Kings 10:9 Because of the LORD's eternal love for Israel...

1 Kings 18:36b-37 O Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, O LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again."

I've always loved Elijah's prayer for many reasons.


God Bless!

The Highlighter [2 Samuel 3 - 1 Kings 3]

This week I read 2 Samuel 3 - 1 Kings 3]

2 Samuel 13:2, 15 Amnon became frustrated to the point of illness...Then Amnon hated her with intense hatred. In fact, he hated her more than he had loved her, Amnon said to her, "Get up and get out!"

I know I touched on this a bit last week, but again we notice that when we get what we want...we often aren't happy with it. In Amnon's case, he got what he wanted (Tamar) and it resulted in hatred. We must know and understand what brings us true joy.

2 Samuel 14:14b But God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person my not remain estranged from him.

We could spend a long time talking about this verse. It's very though provoking.

2 Samuel 21:1 ...David sought the face of the LORD...

I love that phrase!

2 Samuel 22:2-4
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer,
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior -
from violent men you save me.
I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.

This is David's song that he sang to the LORD after being delivered from the hands of enemies. This is a good verse to flip to if you are ever in a time of struggle or conflict.

1 Kings 2:2 So be strong, show yourself a man, and observe what the LORD your God requires: Walk in his ways and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and requirements, as written in the Law of Moses, so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go,

This is David's "passing the torch" speech to his son, Solomon. What great advice this would be to pass around!

God Bless!

Shocking

I'm gonna put The Highlighter on hold for now...(possibly tomorrow??). I've got something else on my mind I'd rather talk about right now.

Today was one of the most shocking, scary, horrible days I've had in in quite some time (possibly ever).
I don't want to get into too many details, due to privacy, but when the time comes all will be revealed. We are currently in the process of telling our immediate family.

I believe firmly that we should only worry about the things we can control. I'm gonna be repeating that over and over again throughout the next few weeks. I've got that phrase posted by my computer in the office to help me.

I realize this is one of those posts that will leave my audience hanging, and for that I apologize. I've probably presented you with more questions than answers, again, I'm sorry.

When the time is right, all will be revealed.

Please Pray!

The Highlighter [1 Samuel 6 - 2 Samuel 2]

This past week I read 1 Samuel 6 through 2 Samuel 2. Here is what particularly stuck out to me...

1 Samuel 12:21 - Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless.

When it comes to idolatry, I believe it's worth mentioning that idolatry never really accomplishes what we want it to. Let me explain. Contrary to what I hear quite often, idolatry doesn't just occur in the OT. It still occurs in 2009. Although instead of worshiping golden statues and fountains, we are worshiping our status, fame, money, [insert your favorite material object].
But it never accomplishes what we want it to. We want these things to make us happy. We convince ourselves "If I put this new mega-booming-super-sonic stereo in my car, then I'll be happy." So we save up. We work that extra hour, bag that extra bag of groceries, flip that extra burger, till finally we have the money we need. We purchase this stereo. Then we live happily ever after. Until...

We see that other stereo. One that is even more mega, more booming, more supersonic than the one we recently purchased. All of a sudden, we aren't so happy.

See what I mean? It doesn't accomplish what Satan wants us to think it accomplishes. Solomon says it better than I can ever say it...whoever loves money never has money enough...(Eccl 5:10)

This particular verse in 2 Samuel ends with the phrase because they are useless. Useless. That's powerful.

Obviously, and I think this goes without mentioning (but I suppose I'll mention it anyways) we know we aren't going to be thrown into the eternal fire for purchasing a stereo. But no matter where we are in our walk with Jesus, we ALL need reminders that only Jesus brings us eternal hope and joy.

1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

It's hard for me to talk about this verse without mentioning the lyrics of one of my favorite Contemporary Christian songs growing up. So I'll just point you to the lyrics and avoid being repetitive. (By the way, it's truly an awesome song!)

1 Samuel 23:2 he inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?"

I love that phrase inquired of the LORD. It occurs frequently throughout both 1 and 2 Samuel, but I'll just mention it here.

1 Samuel 30:6 But David found strength in the LORD his God.

Amen. What is our true source of strength?

-------------------
I love the David story. I've always thought that the David story, if done properly, would make an incredible movie.

Grace and Peace!

The Highlighter [Joshua 9 - 1 Samuel 5]

I'm combining 2 weeks worth of reading here, so I'm gonna try hard to keep this from getting really long. Let's see how it goes...

Joshua 9:14 The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord.

I've always liked this verse. We need to get on our knees and "inquire of the Lord" before (and after) any major decision.

Joshua 14:9 So on that day Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.

Here, I guess I just really like that word "wholeheartedly." It also occurs later, in verse 14. We must follow God, wholeheartedly. With all of our hearts. Not just twice on Sundays, and once on Wednesdays. Let's give God ALL of our heart. Not just the leftovers, but all of it. Wholeheartedly. All the time, with all of our hearts.

Joshua 23:8 But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now.

Joshua 24:15b But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.

One of the best statements or quotes you could ever put on a wall in your home.

Joshua 24:23 "Now then," said Joshua, "throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel.".

I like that phrase, "yield your hearts."

Judges 10:15-16 But the Israelites said to the Lord, "We have sinned. Do with us whatever you think best, but please rescue us now." Then they got rid of the foreign gods among them and served the LORD. And he could bear Israel's misery no longer.

What is easy to notice in the book of Judges is that the Israelites always seemed to forget God when everything was going well. That alone is a lesson by itself, yet the story is not over. Even though he was constantly rejected by his people, God never failed to rescue them. We also constantly reject him when we follow the ways of the world. Yet God rescues us.

Judges 13:25 and the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him while he was in Mahaneh Dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol.

Again, just another phrase I like...the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him.

1 Samuel 2:2
There is no one holy like the LORD;
there is no one besides you;
there is no Rock like our God.


God Bless, CP

The Highlighter combo

This week's highlighter series will be combined with next week's. I will do this for two reasons...

1...Winterfest

2...I'm kind of behind on my reading anyways. Luckily, I have a 8 hour bus ride tomorrow and Sunday to take care of that.

See you next week!

The Highlighter [Deuteronomy 5 - Joshua 8]

Sorry I'm a day late on this. I was slammed yesterday as I was finalizing some "2 weeks before Winterfest" details.

Nonetheless, here's just a few of the many passages that blessed me this week:

Deuteronomy 5:33 Walk in all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your dayus in the land that you will possess.

Deuteronomy 6:14 Do not follow other gods, the gods of the peoples around you.

How many times must we be reminded of this? The Israelites needed this reminder before crossing into the promised land. And thousands of years later, I need this reminder before I get out of bed each day. No, I don't have a problem with bowing down to statues or fountains. But even today there is a strong temptation to follow the ways of man. To make money the most important thing in our life. To seek power, to seek fame, to try and make a name for ourselves. Our cars, stereos, computers can all quickly become Gods to us. Let's not follow the God's of men, but the God in heaven.

Deuteronomy 8:5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.

The father/son analogy is one of my favorite illustrations to use in describing God's love. God doesn't give us certain commands to pick on us or to be mean. He wants us to be safe and protected. Protected by his love. Through his love we become holy.

Deuteronomy 14:2 for you are a people holy to the LORD your God. Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the LORD has chosen you to be his treasured possession.

I just really like that phrase treasured possession.

Deuteronomy 20:4 For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.

Why be afraid? The LORD goes with us and fights for us against our enemies? To quote one of my favorite preacher and blogger, "For a Christian, fear is not an option."

Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

My thoughts on this verse will kind of overlap that of the next verse so...

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Throughout the end of Deuteronomy and the first couple of chapters of Joshua, God continuously promises to be with his people. I believe that is a promise that he continues to keep throughout our days on this earth. Knowing that God is with us brings peace, comfort, and security. He is our ultimate provider, our Abba, Father. God is with us! Let's rejoice because of that.

God Bless!

NOTE: Yes, I'm aware that I left out the Shema, Deuteronomy 6:4ff. While it is a blessing to read, I chose not to include it in this list. Usually when I type these up every week, I just select some of the many passages that have blessed me. But if you'd still like to talk about the Shema, that's great too!

Thought provoking quote...

I just heard a quote that blessed me and thought it might bless you as well. This quote is from Leonard Sweet.

"Our problem is we have rapidly become Jeopardy churches in a Who Wants to be a Millionaire World."

He expands...

"Jeopardy is about getting the right answers. Who Wants to be a Millionaire is about drawing you into the experience of the contestant."

Although you certainly want to get the answer right on Millionaire as well. Still, he might be onto something.

Baseball Mumblings

As the Spring Training inches closer and closer, I can't help but get one question out of my mind:

When will baseball be baseball again?

As most of you know, I'm a huge baseball fan. It is my favorite of the "major" sports. However, since 2003 (many will say it was before that) the word "steroid" (or any synonymous word) has been tossed around turning MLB into a Soap Opera.

And I'm ready to move on. I want to move on.

But it isn't that simple. Things have to be dealt with. What about the players that admitted steroid use and have since come clean and stopped? What about the players that juiced (according to evidence, at least) but won't admit it? What about the "average" players that juiced but nobody cares about?

Today, Deadspin accurately pointed out that everyone is the bad guy. The players, the union, the league, even the fans!

And, of course, there is the fact that an anonymous testing turned out to be not-so-anonymous. I'm glad Arod 'fessed up and told the truth, but somebody really owes ARod and apology.

So, perhaps the wrong question is being asked. Perhaps instead of asking "When can we move on?" we should be asking "Can we move on?"

I'd like to think we can, although I certainly don't have the answers as to how. I guess that's why those that have the answers are getting paid.

I'm glad we have guys like Jason Giambi, Andy Pettite, and now, Alex Rodriguez, who admit they have made a mistake and are willing to move on.

But then there is the other side, a side that knows/thinks (choose which ever you believe) that the art of escaping is with words.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. That speaks volumes considering that just one word can keep you out of jail. What word keeps you out of jail, you ask? The word, "knowingly".

We know Bonds said something that wasn't the truth while under oath. But was in an "accident?" Throughout all this Bonds drama, the question isn't if he took steroids. The question is if he knowingly took steroids. All this fuss is over that one word.

And of course I haven't even talked about this Clemens/McNamee situation.

Obviously we are learning a lesson throughout all this. One of the major reasons why the steroids era is dragging out so much is because of all the lies.

Which then leads me to a question that I'll end on. I'd also like to hear some of your thoughts on this.

Pete Rose is guilty of 2 major no-nos: Obviously there is the first one, he gambled. But then there is his second major no-no, he lied about it for over a decade.

So...we have something similar happening here with Clemens and Bonds. I'd like your thoughts on this...

Which bugs you more...Players using steroids or players lying about their steroid use? This question, of course, assumes that these players are guilty...which I suppose is another discussion.

I'll start. It bugs me more when they lie about it.

The Highlighter [Numbers 7-Deuteronomy 4]

This week I read Numbers 7 through Deuteronomy 4. Here is what God put on my heart:

Numbers 7:9 But Moses did not give any to the Kohathites, because they were to carry on their shoulders the holy things, for which they were responsible.

Numbers 9:23 At the LORD's command they encamped, and at the LORD's command they set out. They obeyed the LORD's order, in accordance with his command through Moses.

I hate to seem like a broken record. I know I've touched on this idea the past couple of weeks. But I really don't think obedience is to be taken lightly. If there is one thing we've learned about God thus far, it's that he means what he says. "Good news" or "bad news" he is serious.

Numbers 11:10-12 Moses heard the people of every family wailing, each at the entrance to his tent. The LORD became exceedingly angry, and Moses was troubled. He asked the LORD, "Why have you brought this trouble on your servant? What have I done to displease you that you put the burden of all these people on me? Did I conceive all these people? Did I give them birth? Why do you tell me to carry them in my arms, as a nurse carries an infant, to the land you promised on oath to their forefathers?

To me, this is one of those comparative lessons. I didn't type out verse 1, but verse 1 says Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. Ouch! The people complain and God sends a fire!

Yet, compare that to what happened to Moses a few paragraphs later. He was troubled...but God didn't send one of his flaming special deliveries to Moses. What's the difference? He took his burdens to the LORD. He "asked the LORD" as the text reads.

That comparison teaches me a lot. I hope it blesses you the same way it blesses me.

Numbers 14:18 The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished.

Numbers 15:30-31 But anyone who sins defiantly, whether native-born or alien, blasphemes the LORD, and that person must be cut off from his people. Because he has despised the LORD's word and broken his commands, that person must surely be cut off; his guilt remains on him.

It is important to note that those who sinned defiantly and deliberately received a harsher punishment. They were to be cut off. There is a temptation to justify our sin by saying "It will be ok, I can do this. God will forgive me". Well, we can see what happened to the Israelites when they intentionally sinned.

Paul addresses that particular justification in Romans 6:1-2 as well. Whichever verse you use, I think the point is that we aren't to take sin so lightly.

Numbers 20:12 But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them."

What jumps out at me here is that phrase "you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy". He didn't say "you disobeyed me", even though Moses clearly disobeyed. He didn't say "you lost your temper" even though that is what happened. Instead, the LORD used the phrase "you did not trust me".

My Hebrew knowledge is limited (one semester's worth). Someone smarter than me is going to have to handle that part.

Anyways, I find that phrasing interesting. I have a few thoughts about it, but I'd love to hear yours as well.

Numbers 33:52 drive out all the inhabitants of the land before you. Destroy all their carved images and their cast idols, and demolish all their high places.

I love how there is to be a high priority in getting rid of the idols before they move into the promised land.

Deuteronomy 4:29 But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul.

There is a passage similar to this in Jeremiah that is a bit more well known. The context in this one is a bit different though. However, they both have one thing in common: look for him, seek him with all our heart.

I don't think we can emphasize enough what that phrase "all your heart" really means. All of our heart! What would it be like if we looked for God with half of our heart? Can we seek God with half our our heart while the other half follows the ways of the world? (Revelation 3 refers to that as "lukewarm")

God Bless!

The PAPA Prayer

I don't do a lot of book reviews. And at that, I wouldn't call them "book reviews" as you'll hear a dictionary or a college professor call them.

Even though I've labeled this post as a "Book Review", I'd call this something like a "book recommendation" or perhaps even "Here's a few brief thoughts this book gave me."

Whatever you want to call it, there is a book I just completed that I'm very anxious to share with you. It is Larry Crabb's, The PAPA Prayer

I was given this book for free. I'm so thankful for the individual who gave me this book. I probably would not have purchased it at a store. I would have passed by it thinking, "No thanks. I've already read Yancey's and Foster's book on prayer. How could this one be any different or better?"



This book views prayer from more of a relational side than Yancey and Foster...although Yancey and Foster do touch on it.

I'll be honest...I don't say things like this much. But if you struggle with your prayer life then you need to read this book. It's awesome.

I don't want to give away any of his content...he communicates it better than I ever could. I'd probably lessen the power that his truths reveal.

Please read this book! You'll see your relationship with God soar to new levels. I've recently seen this book at a used bookstore in Lake Park for $3.00. This can be the best $3.00 you've ever spent. If the money is still an issue even after the discounted price, I'll let you borrow mine.

This is an incredible book. I'll end with one of my favorite phrases from this book.

"When we mature enough to want from God what He's ready to give us, incredible things happen-sometimes around us, always in us. He may use His power to change our circumstances to our liking. He will use His power to change our hearts to His liking."

The Highlighter [Leviticus 6-Numbers 6]

Well, it's Thursday and we all know what that means. Today I get to share what I've been reading from God's word as well as the thoughts it has planted in my head.

Leviticus 6:8-13 it [the fire] must not go out

Interestingly, Leviticus and Numbers features a lot of sections where a word or phrase is repeated. I think words and phrases like that are repeated for a reason.

Here is one of those sections. The fire on the altar had to keep burning. To me, this is a representation of the eternal God and his presence in our lives.

Leviticus 8 as the LORD commanded Moses

This is almost an exact duplicate of something I shared last week. Again, we learn how important it is to follow God's commands to every last detail. We can't just pick and choose what commands (or what part of the commands) we want to obey. God wants all of us, not just part of us!

Leviticus 10:1-2 Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, but fire in them and added the incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to his command. So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD.

Speaking of following God's commands to the exact detail, we have a case in point right here. Nadab and Abihu offered an unauthorized sacrifice. I think this is the point where we see (if we haven't already) exactly how important the sacrificial system is. It certainly isn't to be taken lightly. We mustn't be lackadaisical in our obedience to God.

Leviticus 10:10 You must distinguish between the holy and the common, between the unclean and the clean.

What I find neat here is that the opposite of holy is common. We are to distinguish between the two. Remember, holy is often translated set apart. We are to be set apart, different. We aren't to be like the world (common). We need to stand up for what we believe in and be set apart.

Leviticus 11:44-45 I am the LORD your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy. Do not make yourselves unclean by any creature that moves about on the ground. I am the LORD who brought you up out of Egypt to be your God; therefore be holy, because I am holy.

I think anything I said or commented about this verse would just take away from it's beauty.

Leviticus 20:7 Consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am the LORD your God. Keep my decrees and follow them. I am the LORD, who makes you holy.

The last phrase is a phrase that needs to be starred, underlined, highlighted, italicized, etc. I think it is important to note that the LORD makes us holy. We often think that holiness comes simply by "being good". Well, as we can see, it is a bit deeper than that. Although, there is certainly an aspect of obedience, we must submit ourselves to God. HE makes us holy.

Numbers 6:24-26 The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.

This is the priestly blessing. But I find this is a good verse to go to whenever thinks are "down". When struggles are surrounding us, repeat those words. If you need to, put them at a place where you will see them frequently. It's a great "pick me up" verse.



God Bless!

The Highlighter [Exodus 21-Leviticus 5]

This week I read Exodus 21-Leviticus 5. Here's what stuck out to me.

Exodus 22:31 You are to be my holy people.
Ultimately, this is what God wants. I feel like many of the commands God has for us can be summarized into this one verse, be my Holy people.

He wants us to be his. He wants us to be Holy. Christlike, set apart. As we walk this earth, we are to be different.

One of the most challenging things I've ever heard comes from one of my favorite authors. Think about this question: Why has it become so hard to pick a Christian out of a crowd?

I love that quote for a number of reasons. I take that back. I'm not really sure that I love it. I love how challenging it is to my life and to others, but I don't like the truth that is embedded in that question.

As God's holy people, we need to stand out. Be in the world, not of it, as the New Testament says. But that's not until October-Novemberish :-)

Exodus 23:33b because the worship of their gods will certainly be a snare to you.

That was certainly the case for the nation of Israel. However it is also the case for you and me. It is important to keep in mind that idolatry isn't limited to worshiping golden statues. Idolatry can also be worshiping our money or addictions. We must rid ourselves of anything that keeps us from the one, true God, our father.

Exodus 29:45 Then I will dwell among the Israelites and be their God. They will know that I am the Lord their God, who brought them out of Egypt so that I might dwell among them.

Exodus 33:14 My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.
This verse comes right after one of the most challenging chapters of the whole Bible for me. I've always found Exodus 32 hard to read, mostly because I'm glad I'm not Moses. If I'm Moses coming down from Sinai and I see what the Aaron and the rest of the Israelites are up to (The Golden Calf) I'd probably scream and say "OK, God, just zap them dead now." Turns out, three thousand of them did die (32:28)

God took care of them and what did they do? They turned away from Him. Thankfully, God (and Moses) have (had) more patience than I do. In the chapter after that (33) we see the above phrase. It is such a comforting phrase to me. God's Presence was with them as they set out. God's Presence is with us on our journey as well.

Exodus 39-40 as the LORD commanded Moses/him
Phrases that are often repeated usually stick out to me. As I read the last 2 chapters of Exodus I underlined every time the above phrase appeared. Assuming I didn't miss one, I counted 18 times this phrase appears.

From that...we see how important it is that we follow every single command/detail/footnote that God gives us. With God, detail is important. We can't say to any of His commands "Oh, that's not important." Rather, we must follow them EXACTLY. Cross every "t" and dot every "i". Let's follow His commands with the same determination and attention to detail that Moses did.

Leviticus 5:5 When anyone is guilty in any of these ways, he must confess in what way he has sinned
I find it interesting that this verse jumped out at me. Confession was a part of the sin offering process. Obviously, because of Christ's death on the cross we no longer have to sacrifice an animal. However, confession is still an important aspect of our journey to repentance. The animal sacrificing stopped, but the confessions continue.

That's what stuck out to me this week! God Bless!

Misc. Braves Rambling

It's been awhile since I've blogged about the Braves. But that doesn't mean I don't have many thoughts about what has been going on in Bravesnation.

A majority of the Braves sites the past month have been talking about John Smolts, the new pitchers, and/or Frank Wren's GM abilities.

But I think one of my favorite Braves links of the past several weeks is this.

I think I've made it known how feel about Terence Moore's work, but in case you missed it I'm not the biggest fan of his writing. Half of his articles feature "Cy Maddux, Cy Glavine, and Cy Smoltz" and is it really necessary to have a hyperlink everytime the word "Braves" appears? Those are just nit picky things...I could go all day on his often misled theories. Anyways, back to the article.

I'll be honest (and obvious). I miss Mazzone. McDowell has done an average job (not great, not horrible), but Mazzone is a mastermful pitching instructor. And I've always wondered deep inside if he regrets leaving the Atlanta organization.

Now we know the truth. Yes he does.

I won't repeat everything the article says, but in a nutshell Mazzone left stability and security for money and friendship.

He had a good thing going with the Braves. Mazzone's methods were often criticized but you can't argue with the results. He had pitchers throwing twice between starts, instead of usual one side session. Mazzone was also effective at keeping his pitchers healthy. He encouraged them not to throw hard during those side sessions, but to work on breaking and offspeed stuff. When his pitchers were in a jam, instead of telling his pitchers to "put a little more in this one" Mazzone would tell them to take some off. Throwing too hard too often is what tears tendons, rotator cuffs, and whatever else is inside those multi-million dollar arms.

Mazzone had a legacy. And he left it all for an opportunity to coach with his best friend, and oh yeah, a lot of zeros.

In a sport with teams that go through managers and coaches like McDonald's goes through hot cakes, why risk job security?

I realize I'm many years late by blogging about Mazzone leaving. I suppose it's just hard to know exactly how to feel about Moore's column. Am I to be happy that Mazzone regrets leaving the Braves? The Atlanta Braves shirt I'm wearing wants to say "yes." My heart wants to say "no".

Other News and Notes:
Many World Baseball Classic teams will feature Braves players (assuming they make the final roster. As I look through the teams and the players, I expect most of them will) The situations the players are in will vary, however.

Jorge Campillo will probably make the Mexico team if he sticks with the team. However, as TC notes, it might be wise for Campillo to stay with the team in Spring Training, rather than play in the WBC. Right now Campillo is penciled in the 5th starter spot of the Braves roster. It's his to lose. If guys like Tommy Hanson, Jo Jo Reyes, Todd Redmond, or Charlie Morton have a great showing in the Grapefruit League while Campillo struggles in the WBC, we might have some drama. Of course, if Campillo dominates in the WBC then nothing happens and he is a hero. It's ultimately Campillo's decision, but either way he needs a strong showing. Would it be easier for him to keep is rotation spot by throwing against minor leaguers in the Grapefruit League or by throwing against a stacked Dominican team in the WBC? I know which one I'd do.

The reporters are very wishy-washy on if the Braves will (more importantly, SHOULD) sign Andruw Jones. I've read some articles that say the Braves are talking about it. And I've read some articles that say there is no interest. What are we to think? Who knows what will happen. Personally, I'm rolling my eyes if it is anything more than a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite. The last thing we need is yet another bad outfielder we feel obligated to give at-bats to (I'm looking at YOU, Frenchy!)

Speaking of Frenchy, the reports are that he has been doing a lot of work this offseason. Where have I heard this before? Last offseason? The one before that? His season's are gradually getting worse...and I fear it is because pitchers are realizing his weaknesses more and more. Not just that he swings at everything including fastballs that are forehead high, but that he must decide quicker if he should swing or not.

I'm getting tired of hearing phrases like "The Natural" or "Face of the Franchise" or anything of the like. He wouldn't be starting in RF on any other team. My patience is wearing thin with Frenchy.

And in case you are wondering, no, my future Braves posts won't be this long.

The Highlighter [Genesis 37-Exodus 20]

Since you last heard from me I have read Genesis 37 through Exodus 20. Here's what stuck out to me:

Genesis 39:21 - But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.

Throughout the last 15 or so chapters in Genesis, you see the phrase "The Lord was with him [or her]" quite frequently. That especially stuck out to me in the life of Joseph. Here, God is particularly protecting Joseph for doing the right thing. I think this is a fantastic lesson for all of us. Doing the right thing doesn't mean we will never have anything bad happen to us. However, God will watch over us when we do the right thing.

Genesis 46:3-4 - "I am God, the God of your father," he said. "Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. I will go down to Egypt with you and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph's own hand will close your eyes."

God is speaking this to Israel [Jacob] in a vision. I mentioned last week that God's promises are particularly sticking out to me this time through. I can't really say why, but I'm sure the Holy Spirit has something to do with it.

Genesis 50:20 - You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

Exodus 4: 24 - At a lodging place on the way, the LORD met Moses and was about to kill him.

When I hear the story of Moses talked about or preached about, this is often left out. You are reading that correctly, God was about to kill Moses. This verse shows how important circumcision was (context tells us the reason God was about to kill Moses was because his son had not been circumcised). Before Moses could go any further in his mission to free God's people, he had to fulfill the conditions of God's covenant.

Exodus 14:14 - The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.

I preached on this verse last year, it was one of my favorite sermons that I've done thus far. Even having already preached on it though, it still sticks out to me. The LORD fights for us, we just need to be still! Being still is one of those "easier said than done" tasks in a world of constant movement. But how comforting it is to know that God will fight for us. That phrase is full of hope.



God bless!

Freedom Writers

The Last netflix movie I watched, Freedom Writers, was one of the best movies I've seen in quite awhile. If you haven't seen it, I recommend it.

I won't ruin the movie if you haven't seen it. But I thought I might at least explain why I like it. You're not going to see the best acting you've ever seen, and it also took awhile to set this story up...but it was that story that has attracted me to this movie.

As a teacher, my wife liked it also. It's a movie that gets to the core of teaching - teaching is about the kids. These kids were integrated into one school and gang violence was not a stranger to any of these kids. Learning to diagram sentences seemed meaningless to kids that left school dodging bullets.

While I don't support everything the movie teaches (mainly...they portray Erin Gruwell as if she did the right thing by spending hardly anytime with her husband to pursue her career) the movie is overall very solid and thought provoking. This is a good movie if you like dramas about integration and status quo flaws (Glory Road, Coach Carter, Take the Lead).

I'm not good at this...[The Highlighter Intro]

The title of this post is an understatement. I could have told you that without even looking to see that my last post was in early November.

So Happy Thanksgiving to you, Merry Christmas to you, Happy New year to you, and any other major events I might have missed.

When things get busy for me, this blog is usually one of, if not, THE first thing I cut out. It's not that I don't like to write...rather...it's probably that I spend so much of my time writing (bulletin articles, lessons, sermons, announcements) that coming over here and doing it gets a little tedious sometimes.

That probably also explains why most of the writing you see here is sports writing, which is not the way I originally planned this to be.

But here's the way I see it...I either want to do this well, or not do it at all. I'm going to try to attempt to revitalize my blogging a bit. I've got a couple of ideas stirring in my head about things to write about but the one I'm most excited about is this:

In the year 2009, I plan to read the Bible all the way through, like I did the previous 2 years (I'm not counting the times I read through the Bible in college, as that was "mandatory"). I don't tell you this because I think I'm better than others, I don't believe that's true. In fact that is very far from the truth.

Rather...I've come to realize how much of a blessing it is to spend time in God's word everyday. I've grown so much the past few years and I know that spending time in his word will help me grow towards him.

So why am I telling you this? Well, what I want to do is, probably on a weekly basis, log some of my thoughts on this blog as I read through the Bible. It might share a few passages or verses that stuck out with me...I might type out an entire sermon that came to me while reading. Some posts might be 3 verses and thats it...other posts might have one verse with 3 paragraphs of thoughts behind it. I'm just gonna do whatever the spirit leads me.

Below will be my first entry of the year doing this:

So far this year I've read Genesis 1-36. Here's what stuck out to me:

Genesis 1:2b and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.


Gen 12:2 I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.
I don't really know why...but for some reason the spirit has led me to really focus on the promises that God has made thus far in the Bible story. So I highlighted the promises he made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob specifically, although it's more of a reaffirmation of the same promise.

Genesis 13:18, 18:1, 23:17 The great trees of Mamre
This I've noticed for the first time...and I feel kind of ashamed of that. This would make a great sermon sometime...the Trees of Mamre.

The great trees in Mamre refers to a location that featured a number of significant events in the life of Abraham. It was at this location where:

Abraham built an altar after he parted ways with Lot. The Lord promised him this land. (13:18)
Abraham bargained with the Lord for Sodom and Gomorrah (18:1)
Abraham and his wife were told they would have a son (18:9-10)
Sarah (and eventually Abraham) were buried here (23:17)

Also - I highlighted this verse: Genesis 29:20b - but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her

That's what stuck out to me thus far in my reading. I look forward to sharing my findings with you.