Check out my Slide Show!

Check out my Slide Show!

Simon, the future drummer. I'm telling you, after church today, he made a noise quite loud for a 2 year old. He got the drumsticks out after he got tired using his hands; and he already knows to use his foot pedals as well. The kid's got rhythm, so T, watch out!

Nathaniel, the artist, (violin, piano, painter, singer) and lead worshiper from off-stage. He does not like much attention, but loves the Lord wholeheartedly at age 5. I've learned many things from him (see also "Five year old wisdom"). Most recently, i asked him the question: "How do we worship God?" He replied: "We obey."

Here's to the next generation of worshippers!

Here are some pictures from Germany, my Birthday, and last night's worship. Enjoy!

Ah! Again, it's been a long time.

The post-passion dilemma is resolving. And here's what God is doing in my life (it's not short; so, take your time).

Just before Passion, i found out that there may be a year between residency and fellowship during which i have no plan. Yep, no plan for my future. Maybe do research in England, or should i find another fellowship, or what to do with it, i don't know.

Then, i went to P07, but unlike P06 didn't leave happy and bouncing off the walls. i left changed, and quiet, reflective, and wondering. This song, Matt put it out just in time (after God put it in his little head), "What am i gonna do with this life YOU gave me? What could i do but live for YOUR praise?" has really gotten stuck with me. And of course, i, even i, heard God speaking to me, so i've been praying about whether i should go to Iraq. Can anyone picture me in Iraq? i can't! So, this has been really something. Another friend then said i should think of Dubai instead of Iraq. WHAT?! So, in other words, here i find myself, trying to regain control of my life (which i've got planned out for the next 30 years, i like to think), yet as i do, losing more and more control. What do i learn? Well, the one thing it comes back to is that "every day i live to obey YOU... with all of my heart... with all of my mind... with all of my strength... let every breath i'm breathing display YOU, GOD!" In other words, i'm called to wake up every morning, get my attitude straight, my head, heart, and mind centered on Christ, and then to go glorify HIS name wherever i am. To live in peace, knowing that "The LORD has promised good to me," and that i'll be where i'm supposed to be, even in 2010-2011. it may be tougher to go to England and do research; and i may grow more there than going to Dubai. i've no idea what place it will be. i may be back in Alabama that soon. i really don't know. But God is faithful, and He will lead. my job is solely to listen, and to be ready, and willing to follow.

Yesterday, Mechelle and i went to Chi-town for a shopping spree, tourist-day, and concert. Okay, mainly the concert. We sang and prayed in the car (both ways) and had a really grand time. In preparation for Sunday School, we also talked about our little church; and how things are about to change (boy were we right on the news that came today; without even knowing). So great is our GOD! During the 3 hour worship at night, i realized that all worship had to be Christ-centered; and more, i realized that i like to hang on to the "crowns of glory" that i earn (like, the good things i achieve; my degrees, my reputation, my job etc). i've liked to neglect giving those to God, but have claimed them for myself; counting on Jesus only to cover up my "bad" parts... so "We fall down" was a new song last night. Funny that we did this song called "In the Presence of a Holy God" today... it addressed the same issue. And our bulletin WorshipWhys section was on entertainment v worship... just heard that last night, as well. And here i find myself, amazed at God proving Himself to be working, and active, in the details of my life. HE sure is trustworthy to plan my future! To see that was a realization this morning, that was all too wonderful for me.

And we sang a song William Cowper wrote way back when; as well as "Holy, Holy, Holy!" Can i just thank God briefly for these people? I mean, using Francis to put this picture of God's throne into my head; it's not left me since. I've come back to that place of worship many, many times in the last month or so. And i've spent much time in church and at other times, intentionally being silent during the songs, and just singing and praying them to God on the inside, as prayers of the heart to HIM. The growth is amazing; this closeness to the holiness of God; unbelievable! any of you out there, just please pray that this would continue, and that Satan will not get a foothold.

Anyway, this is a coarse summary of the news; but it's the essence of the last 2 months. God has worked other signs and wonders... like giving me things that i've not asked anyone for; they've just "happened" to be given to me... like the electric guitar i got for my 30th B-Day. Only God knew that my heart wanted one. I never once said this wish out loud, to anyone. And i got it! Or today, when i hoped a friend would just pay for my lunch so i could be home on time for games with my other friends; and my dear friend Mechelle just said, "well, let me just get yours. you can get me back next time." i never asked, but God gave. That's how good HE is!

Wherefore, HCIKFS?!?

even as a scientist and physician of the smallest sort.

HOW CAN I KEEP FROM SHOUTING!!! YOUR NAME!!!
I KNOW I AM LOVED BY THE KING
AND IT MAKES MY HEART
WANT TO SING

pictures to follow as a slide show when i figure out how to do that.

Silke