So here I find myself in Packer-Garb. Some say I should feel honored to wear such a hallowed Jersey, but personally, not feeling the love. Most of you know I've grown up as a Viking fan. Even though my team is something to be desired, (five wins this year would probably be considered a success) I've still got that purple pride. So why? The reason... I lost a bet. And being the good sport I am, trekked over to the local Khols, grabbed the most convenient green and gold ensemble, and started snapping pictures. Well, one was all that was needed for posterity. Take a good look, you won't see it again!

Personal Faith Statement

Just felt like sharing. please feel free to comment.

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Before this class, I had never truly given much thought to creating a statement clarifying my Christian faith. And even now, although I am more knowledgeable concerning specific areas of study, I still feel as though I am unable to draft a statement to the capacity in which seems complete. That being said, I believe the Bible is the word of God. Scripture is my historical reference of God’s purpose and is completely true and accurate. I believe in an all-knowing, all-seeing, all-present, constant and eternal God. I believe Jesus is the Son of God, and that he is my vehicle to salvation. I believe that the Holy Spirit serves as my connection to faith. I believe that God is represented in these three distinct entities, all three independent but completely whole as one. I do believe that I was created in the image of God. I believe I am living abnormally apart from God in sin. I believe that one day I will walk in the presence of God and find myself rejoicing completely and eternally. I believe I am a member in a community of believers both local and global that are committed to serving his purpose. Individually, I know that I am here on earth as a tool to be used by God, for God’s purpose. I believe that my desire will sync with his purpose, which will create works that will glorify God.

Writing all of this, I know I am incomplete without God. I know I am still learning and growing and exploring areas of my faith. I know there is much ground I have yet to cover. But I know without God as my compass, I’m running on a treadmill – going nowhere fast, expending energy, it seems, just to expend energy. God is my compass; he is my foundation, and my purpose. Without him I find myself wanting, with him, I find I am complete, I am whole.

Beautiful Silence

Hello.

I sit here feeling as if I should be writing something great. A complication of words that provides reflection and a perspective to spark growth, or at least some introspective thought. Or maybe there is some story out there that will make someone smile... but not tonight. Tonight, I feel like writing, like sharing. Could it be I'm out of words. Could it be that in all my writing for my master's program I sit hear without anything share. Is that possible?

I think not. I think it is a beautiful thing to sit in silent reflection. To just be. Sitting and taking it all in. No music, no TV, no internet, no media to distract you. Nothing but the moment to fill you. A moment without time, a moment without worldly measure. A moment filled with opportunity for exploration. Taking the time to hear your inner most thoughts, taking the time to listen to God, taking the time to absorb all it can provide.... Taking the time to go against the grain and tell the world to wait on you...

It becomes a magical moment that becomes appreciated through experience.

This is me, encouraging you to escape from the world for a few minutes. Put everything aside for fifteen minutes and see where it takes you. Go seek and see what you may find!

John Mayer

Took this video last year at the blues & brews. Found it on my computer. Enjoy...
notice that its snowing!