This morning the lesson at SWCC was about the power of God. It ended with Eph. 3:20-21 where it says "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. . ." I love this passage, but I'm not sure I'd ever considered just how powerfully God could act in our lives: "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" is huge and deep and powerful and awesome. Carl Etchison showed us 12 great miracles of God from the O.T. and N.T. and then challenged/encouraged us that God can act like that in our lives and in our church. Wow! Awesome thought!
We closed with the Acappella song, "Now to Him" (how fitting, huh?). I'm enjoying the experience with SWCC and especially their Praise Team and staff.
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Friday, January 27, 2006
Jury Duty
Today I performed my civic responsibility and did jury duty. Have you ever done jury duty? I guess I've done it five or six times. Sometimes it's actually pretty interesting.
Today, I drove downtown and reported to the Jury Room at about 7:40 a.m. (which means I got up at about 5:30 this morning -- too early for me!). After listening to all the instructions umpteen times -- and not only in English, but also in Spanish and some other languages that I couldn't recognize -- we finally got to the part where we took our oath and then had our numbers called in large groups to report to certain court rooms. My number came up in a group of 65 and we were briefed that we would be heading to the 19th floor of the Criminal Justice Center. Oh joy! So, after our group made the three block walk with our police escort, then we had go through security screening (pretty much just like at the airport -- lots of things to unload or take off) and that meant about a 20-30 minute line. Eventually we all got into the building and up to the 19th floor. Here, our escort got us all lined up in order (I was actually prospective juror #2) and struggled with finding all the stragglers.
As all this was going on, I was amused to see various people walk by. Some well-dressed men in suits; "lawyer" I'm thinking as each of them goes by (actually, sometimes I'm thinking "good lawyer" and sometimes "cheap counsel"). Then there are the more interesting folks. I hate being at all racist, but several people of African-American descent strolled past (with unique walks and clothes) both into our court room and into the one across the hall and each time I'd catch myself thinking "defendent" or "friend/family of defendent". I suppose if we'd been lined up to judge the Enron/Ken Lay trial, then it might not have been the same and I might not have passed judgement on folks walking by so quickly. And a couple of people that passed me just looked so beaten down by life (and I caught myself thinking, "Is that what someone who's suffered abuse or abused drugs looks like?"). And then looking out the window at the end of the hallway, from atop our 19th floor perch, I wondered to myself, "who cares about all the people out there who are abused and despondent and at the end of their rope?" I'm not proud that my mind and heart classified people so quickly. I guess being at that particular location makes it easy to distinguish between the haves and have-nots. And my heart was touched as I realized that there are a whole lot more needy folks going unseen all around, every day. I need to be more like Jesus and less like me, to start actively caring and not so much passively ignoring.
Back to our group getting ready in the hallway. Finally we were all present and accounted for, we'd been allowed one last restroom break, and we'd all turned our cell phones off. It was a quiet moment in that "hall of justice". Then a deputy came out of the courtroom and passed out a paper to each of us: our work excuse. He explained, "I don't know who you all are, but I guess all today's defendents didn't like what they saw as they passed you because all today's cases decided to 'plea' " (meaning none of them would go to trial). "You are all free to go home now, or you can go back and sit in the jury room until 11:45 (it was about 10:30 then)."
A guy by me was really bummed to not get a chance at serving on a jury. Me, I was feeling quite blessed and thankful to get to go. I guess I won't get to find out if my hunches about the people were right. I hope I can have my eyes open more to the people right around me all the time and respond to their needs.
Today, I drove downtown and reported to the Jury Room at about 7:40 a.m. (which means I got up at about 5:30 this morning -- too early for me!). After listening to all the instructions umpteen times -- and not only in English, but also in Spanish and some other languages that I couldn't recognize -- we finally got to the part where we took our oath and then had our numbers called in large groups to report to certain court rooms. My number came up in a group of 65 and we were briefed that we would be heading to the 19th floor of the Criminal Justice Center. Oh joy! So, after our group made the three block walk with our police escort, then we had go through security screening (pretty much just like at the airport -- lots of things to unload or take off) and that meant about a 20-30 minute line. Eventually we all got into the building and up to the 19th floor. Here, our escort got us all lined up in order (I was actually prospective juror #2) and struggled with finding all the stragglers.
As all this was going on, I was amused to see various people walk by. Some well-dressed men in suits; "lawyer" I'm thinking as each of them goes by (actually, sometimes I'm thinking "good lawyer" and sometimes "cheap counsel"). Then there are the more interesting folks. I hate being at all racist, but several people of African-American descent strolled past (with unique walks and clothes) both into our court room and into the one across the hall and each time I'd catch myself thinking "defendent" or "friend/family of defendent". I suppose if we'd been lined up to judge the Enron/Ken Lay trial, then it might not have been the same and I might not have passed judgement on folks walking by so quickly. And a couple of people that passed me just looked so beaten down by life (and I caught myself thinking, "Is that what someone who's suffered abuse or abused drugs looks like?"). And then looking out the window at the end of the hallway, from atop our 19th floor perch, I wondered to myself, "who cares about all the people out there who are abused and despondent and at the end of their rope?" I'm not proud that my mind and heart classified people so quickly. I guess being at that particular location makes it easy to distinguish between the haves and have-nots. And my heart was touched as I realized that there are a whole lot more needy folks going unseen all around, every day. I need to be more like Jesus and less like me, to start actively caring and not so much passively ignoring.
Back to our group getting ready in the hallway. Finally we were all present and accounted for, we'd been allowed one last restroom break, and we'd all turned our cell phones off. It was a quiet moment in that "hall of justice". Then a deputy came out of the courtroom and passed out a paper to each of us: our work excuse. He explained, "I don't know who you all are, but I guess all today's defendents didn't like what they saw as they passed you because all today's cases decided to 'plea' " (meaning none of them would go to trial). "You are all free to go home now, or you can go back and sit in the jury room until 11:45 (it was about 10:30 then)."
A guy by me was really bummed to not get a chance at serving on a jury. Me, I was feeling quite blessed and thankful to get to go. I guess I won't get to find out if my hunches about the people were right. I hope I can have my eyes open more to the people right around me all the time and respond to their needs.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
No big news
I don't have anything major to write about today. . . and that's OK!
Last Thursday I went to the Tomball ISD Sub Orientation and then yesterday went to the Cy-Fair ISD Sub Training. Whew! That's a lot of hours of seat time just trying to get on the sub lists. I also had to submit transcripts, references, get a TB test, fill out a pile of forms, etc. And then they pay subs something like $8 to $9 an hour. Seems odd that in Texas they pay a person to be working with a room full of children less than they pay a bus driver (and less than the person might make just doing general labor jobs in the area). But, I'm getting ready to Sub anyway and actually kind of look forward to being in a classroom again. BTW, at this point it still takes about three weeks or so to get into the system while they run background checks, hook you up with payroll, get you your security badge, etc.
My brother-in-law, Troy Wagner, let us know yesterday that he will get to visit us in Feb. He's going to Florida (from Portland, OR) to visit "Helping Hands" (or something like that) and Continental will let him do a stopover in Houston for about a day-and-a-half. Cool!
Last Thursday I went to the Tomball ISD Sub Orientation and then yesterday went to the Cy-Fair ISD Sub Training. Whew! That's a lot of hours of seat time just trying to get on the sub lists. I also had to submit transcripts, references, get a TB test, fill out a pile of forms, etc. And then they pay subs something like $8 to $9 an hour. Seems odd that in Texas they pay a person to be working with a room full of children less than they pay a bus driver (and less than the person might make just doing general labor jobs in the area). But, I'm getting ready to Sub anyway and actually kind of look forward to being in a classroom again. BTW, at this point it still takes about three weeks or so to get into the system while they run background checks, hook you up with payroll, get you your security badge, etc.
My brother-in-law, Troy Wagner, let us know yesterday that he will get to visit us in Feb. He's going to Florida (from Portland, OR) to visit "Helping Hands" (or something like that) and Continental will let him do a stopover in Houston for about a day-and-a-half. Cool!
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Today's thoughts. . .
I enjoyed leading worship at Spring Woodlands today and look forward to more experiences there. Several former Tomball C of C families were there; it was good to see them (though I'm concerned for those affected by the changes at Tomball). My voice got a bit worn out (three services is tough!), but overall it seemed like things went well.
Go Seahawks! SuperBowl bound!!!
I'm so thankful for good friends today. One called early this morning before church to let us know she was praying. Some who came to Spring Woodlands were there just to support me (thanks!). Several went to lunch with us. And a few came over to watch the Seahawks game. It's just nice to have friends!
Go Seahawks! SuperBowl bound!!!
I'm so thankful for good friends today. One called early this morning before church to let us know she was praying. Some who came to Spring Woodlands were there just to support me (thanks!). Several went to lunch with us. And a few came over to watch the Seahawks game. It's just nice to have friends!
Friday, January 20, 2006
SWCC Blessings
This is my first week at the Spring Woodlands Church of Christ and already I feel blessed in so many ways. The staff has been very warm, friendly, and accomodating. I have a nice office with a screaming fast computer (I guess the last guy was a "gamer" and NEEDED a super-fast machine for his obsession). The lead minister, Carl Etchison, has been especially affirming and supportive (which is such a breath of fresh air!). Last night I met with the Praise Team and they were wonderful -- musically, of course, but also very welcoming. We had a nice time of singing and prayer and talk (and had the biggest group they'd had in quite awhile, they said). Whether I'm just there a few months, or it works out longer-term, it's all a great blessing at this point.
Other thoughts today:
I'm wondering what happened to WorshipForum.com??? I've tried to call Ike Graul three times, but no news yet. Others are asking me, but I don't have any info.
Tonight we're going to see "Hoodwinked". I hear it's very good family fun.
Other thoughts today:
I'm wondering what happened to WorshipForum.com??? I've tried to call Ike Graul three times, but no news yet. Others are asking me, but I don't have any info.
Tonight we're going to see "Hoodwinked". I hear it's very good family fun.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Cooking Lessons
Yesterday Lani and I were both late coming home so Lani called and asked Micah and Hannah to make a meatloaf -- a first for both of them. She told them where a recipe was and the items they would need and they said they could do it.
Well, when we got home it was in the oven and looking fine. In fact, when the timer went off and we took it out of the oven, Lani said it was the best-looking meatloaf she'd ever seen in this house (not that we eat meatloaf very often, but it did look good and she was doing her best positive-parenting).
So we got the rest of the dinner done and on the table and everyone settled in, prayed, and then said some nice things to Lani (since it was her birthday) and then served up the best-looking meatloaf ever. . . and then we started taking our first bites. Hannah said "Ooo, what's wrong with this" and others faces puckered & grimaced as they took their first taste. Then Lani said to Micah and Hannah, "Did you put the right seasonings in, or did you BOTH put the seasoning in?"
And Micah said, "Well, it called for 1/2 cup of chopped onion, but we didn't have any fresh onion so I put in 1/2 cup onion salt instead" (Actually, he first said it called for 2 cups of chopped onion and said he'd put in 2 cups of onion salt, which was even funnier at the moment; he later changed his story after retrieving the recipe and remembering what he'd done.). We all laughed pretty hard about his mistake and explained to him that a 1/2 cup of fresh, chopped onion would reduce to a tablespoon or probably less of onion salt.
In the end, we all ate it anyway, but found it was tolerable when you took a bit of meatloaf along with some mashed potatoes and either gravy or ketchup. And we all feared that we'd have strong onion-breath all day the next day (today). Ah, the joys of learning to cook!
Well, when we got home it was in the oven and looking fine. In fact, when the timer went off and we took it out of the oven, Lani said it was the best-looking meatloaf she'd ever seen in this house (not that we eat meatloaf very often, but it did look good and she was doing her best positive-parenting).
So we got the rest of the dinner done and on the table and everyone settled in, prayed, and then said some nice things to Lani (since it was her birthday) and then served up the best-looking meatloaf ever. . . and then we started taking our first bites. Hannah said "Ooo, what's wrong with this" and others faces puckered & grimaced as they took their first taste. Then Lani said to Micah and Hannah, "Did you put the right seasonings in, or did you BOTH put the seasoning in?"
And Micah said, "Well, it called for 1/2 cup of chopped onion, but we didn't have any fresh onion so I put in 1/2 cup onion salt instead" (Actually, he first said it called for 2 cups of chopped onion and said he'd put in 2 cups of onion salt, which was even funnier at the moment; he later changed his story after retrieving the recipe and remembering what he'd done.). We all laughed pretty hard about his mistake and explained to him that a 1/2 cup of fresh, chopped onion would reduce to a tablespoon or probably less of onion salt.
In the end, we all ate it anyway, but found it was tolerable when you took a bit of meatloaf along with some mashed potatoes and either gravy or ketchup. And we all feared that we'd have strong onion-breath all day the next day (today). Ah, the joys of learning to cook!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Thoughts & hopes. . .
This morning I'm heading over to Spring Woodlands C of C to set up my office space and start planning my first service there (at least my first "non-tryout" service). This is exciting and I'm looking forward to it!
I got wrapped up in the new season of "24" and watched both of the last two night's 2-hour season premieres. I've never been a fan before and I have a usual Monday-night commitment, but I may have to start taping it. I like the intensity (the clock probably adds to that). I didn't like Jack carrying out his own justice by executing a guy, and the violence is sometimes a little intense (especially if any younger eyes are in the room).
Go Seahawks! One more win to be in the SuperBowl! (If you're from the NW, Seattle is the only "local" team to cheer for).
The Hollywood liberals had their way yesterday. I hated seeing homosexual and transexual movies getting big coverage and awards at the Golden Globes. On the other hand, I really liked the Johnny Cash movie, "Walk the Line", and was glad it was a winner.
Finally, today is Lani's Birthday! The whole family went out to dinner last night (on a gift card) to celebrate. She's double digits today (33, 44, 55. . . your guess).
I got wrapped up in the new season of "24" and watched both of the last two night's 2-hour season premieres. I've never been a fan before and I have a usual Monday-night commitment, but I may have to start taping it. I like the intensity (the clock probably adds to that). I didn't like Jack carrying out his own justice by executing a guy, and the violence is sometimes a little intense (especially if any younger eyes are in the room).
Go Seahawks! One more win to be in the SuperBowl! (If you're from the NW, Seattle is the only "local" team to cheer for).
The Hollywood liberals had their way yesterday. I hated seeing homosexual and transexual movies getting big coverage and awards at the Golden Globes. On the other hand, I really liked the Johnny Cash movie, "Walk the Line", and was glad it was a winner.
Finally, today is Lani's Birthday! The whole family went out to dinner last night (on a gift card) to celebrate. She's double digits today (33, 44, 55. . . your guess).
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Endings & Beginnings
Today was my final day at the Tomball Church of Christ. It was a little bit emotional, especially all the hugging, well-wishing, and good-byes from folks. The Elders prayed over our family during the service; that was nice, although it caught me a little by surprise.
It was a strange final Sunday. I thought our worship time went quite well (although I'm probably not the most unbiased to judge it), but the unusual thing today was when the Elders presented the results of a survey done back in November and then told some new directions the church would be heading. I was personally quite surprised for how little support there really was for the three major changes; I expected a fair number of people to object to some of the changes, but I thought there'd be at least 2/3 or 3/4 clearly in favor of the change. My own opinion is that maybe the survey showed a need to wait a bit longer or do some study/teaching before moving ahead. However, what was announced was that the Tomball Church would be changing their name (dropping "Church of Christ"), adding instrumental music (perhaps as soon as next Sunday!), and expanding women's role as ministry leaders and in public assemblies. Though I'm praying for God's blessing on the Tomball Church and it's leaders, I'm left wondering a little about where they're headed. I think it will be a tough road, at least in the near future.
Then, later in the afternoon I attended a "Congregational Meeting" over at the Spring Woodlands Church of Christ (where I'll begin leading worship next week). Five of their Elders spoke and it was all really positive and well-received. They encouraged the church with a number of Scriptures, they recognized and honored each staff member, and then they presented some upcoming changes. At the end they even introduced me. They announced that they are going from three services to two, changing their Sunday night format to a prayer time, holding firm on a closing date for the sale of their property to Walmart, presented a budget summary, and then handed out some "feedback" or "response" cards. All in all a very positive experience. And the people that visited with me before and after the meeting were all so kind!
It was a strange final Sunday. I thought our worship time went quite well (although I'm probably not the most unbiased to judge it), but the unusual thing today was when the Elders presented the results of a survey done back in November and then told some new directions the church would be heading. I was personally quite surprised for how little support there really was for the three major changes; I expected a fair number of people to object to some of the changes, but I thought there'd be at least 2/3 or 3/4 clearly in favor of the change. My own opinion is that maybe the survey showed a need to wait a bit longer or do some study/teaching before moving ahead. However, what was announced was that the Tomball Church would be changing their name (dropping "Church of Christ"), adding instrumental music (perhaps as soon as next Sunday!), and expanding women's role as ministry leaders and in public assemblies. Though I'm praying for God's blessing on the Tomball Church and it's leaders, I'm left wondering a little about where they're headed. I think it will be a tough road, at least in the near future.
Then, later in the afternoon I attended a "Congregational Meeting" over at the Spring Woodlands Church of Christ (where I'll begin leading worship next week). Five of their Elders spoke and it was all really positive and well-received. They encouraged the church with a number of Scriptures, they recognized and honored each staff member, and then they presented some upcoming changes. At the end they even introduced me. They announced that they are going from three services to two, changing their Sunday night format to a prayer time, holding firm on a closing date for the sale of their property to Walmart, presented a budget summary, and then handed out some "feedback" or "response" cards. All in all a very positive experience. And the people that visited with me before and after the meeting were all so kind!
Friday, January 13, 2006
How many disks does it take?
Just a follow up to the cleaning out my office post: I ended up with about seven or eight CD-Roms full of files that I saved. There was one folder that had some videos I'd made; I started to save it and then noticed that it was over 8 gigabytes! Needless to say, I didn't keep those.
Though this was a difficult week emotionally with the final moving out at my old office, it was a very positive week in talking to other churches. I had e-mail correspondence with two churches and a nice phone call with someone from another church. I'm confident something will work out, I just don't know where and when. And that makes it kind of exciting!
Though this was a difficult week emotionally with the final moving out at my old office, it was a very positive week in talking to other churches. I had e-mail correspondence with two churches and a nice phone call with someone from another church. I'm confident something will work out, I just don't know where and when. And that makes it kind of exciting!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Cleaning "House"
Yesterday I went into the office at Tomball, thinking I'd try to be there for just a couple of hours. Then I started going through my e-mail files and unsubscribing, or changing my subscription to my home e-mail account, or changing it to Tomball's new Children's Minister, Sherri St. Germain. I went through this process for several hours!!! Who knew? Hopefully, there are just a few stray e-mail subscriptions out there that I haven't caught yet.
Today I plan to go in and clean up lots of computer files, either burn them to disks or delete them. Wonder how long this will take?
Last night was my final "Praise Team Rehearsal" at Tomball. We had a nice circle of people singing together and afterward I was reflecting that that was a nice way to finish with them (besides this Sunday, of course).
Today I plan to go in and clean up lots of computer files, either burn them to disks or delete them. Wonder how long this will take?
Last night was my final "Praise Team Rehearsal" at Tomball. We had a nice circle of people singing together and afterward I was reflecting that that was a nice way to finish with them (besides this Sunday, of course).
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Somebody loves me. . .
Today I got two anonymous cards in the mail with encouraging messages. Isn't that nice?!!! I hope I can learn to anonymously bless more people too.
Monday, January 09, 2006
Sudoku
I recently discovered the joys of Sudoku puzzles. Lani came home one day with a stack of them that she'd run off at work and I remembered Ike Graul mentioning them in his blog, so I thought I'd give them a try. I'm pretty good at the 1 & 2 star puzzles, but it gets more challenging after that. On Saturday, I successfully completed my first 4 star puzzle (and I think I picked up a bit more puzzle solving strategy along the way). But, I've been totally stumped by a 5 star puzzle. I solved 8 numbers on it, but after that I can't seem to progress anywhere. I've written in with little numbers all the possibilities for each square, yet don't see any move to make. So, you Sudoku players, do you have to take a "leap of faith" and guess at this level, or am I probably missing something??? It's just a game, I know, but I love this mental challenge and I can't figure out what to do next!
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Blessed. . .
Today someone (who will remain anonymous) told me that a group of people were going to give me some monthly support during this transition time. Incredible! Makes me ask why I should be so blessed. I'm very grateful. Also, makes me want to be doubly sure that I'm using money and resources wisely.
God (through others) is so good!
God (through others) is so good!
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Tribute to Irby Jackson
Yesterday we celebrated the life of Irby Jackson. His funeral was held at the Tomball Church of Christ, where he'd served as an elder (and friend and mentor and helper to so many) for a number of years. There were about 400 in attendance and lots of kind words expressed by the speakers, Rick Brown, Charlie Middlebrook, and Danny Simms. I led the singing and was honored to be able to participate.
We sang "When the Night is Falling" and "There's a Stirring" with our Praise Team to begin the service. I've always wanted to use these great songs in a time like this and they were especially meaningful yesterday (a few of our team couldn't quite get through them as we sang). Later we sang "Amazing Grace" and "It Is Well With My Soul" congregationally (songs requested by the family). Toward the end of the service we did "Days of Elijah" (another request by Irby's wife, Shirley). It was done in a more subdued way than we normally would, but finally toward the end we started clapping and a few people even shouted out; it was pretty moving.
The most important thing about the time, however, was remembering what an incredible person Irby was. I remember being inspired by my Grandfather's life and thinking at his funeral about how I really want to emulate some things about him in my life. Yesterday was like that too. Irby was a very warm, caring person. Careful about speaking out, but generous in giving his time and effort to help others. He mentored scores and scores of young men (and some gals too) by taking them water skiiing, having them over to work on cars, or just hanging out. I've heard several guys say that when they got into trouble they'd call Irby instead of their own parents. Lots of people who've joined the Tomball Church of Christ over the years will say that Irby & Shirley were primary reasons that they came back after their initial visit; they were always warm and welcoming. Irby loved to have fun and always seemed to have a glint or twinkle in his eye (which often meant he was "up to something"). When I look around our church building, I see things everywhere that Irby did or maintained. How do you replace a guy like that?
The last few times I saw Irby, he wasn't doing too well physically. He'd been battling cancer for the last couple years and then had some heart trouble and other things start to pile up on him. It was hard to see a guy that had always been so strong and active be in such a weakened state. This wasn't the real Irby and I believe it was a blessing that he was released from this frail human flesh into his heavenly body.
I do want to share my last two times with him. On Dec. 11, a group of children and parents had gone caroling to two nursing homes in Tomball and then met for a little Christmas party. Someone (Bonnie Abel) suggested that we go over and sing to Irby. So seven carloads of us drove over to Irby & Shirley's. We weren't sure how we'd find Irby and were ready to sing from outside the door or maybe just step in and do a carol or two. Instead, we were all welcomed inside and gathered around the hospital-style bed that Irby was on in his living room. I don't know how Irby's body felt, but he smiled alot and sure seemed to enjoy it all; I even saw him wink at one or two of the little girls. He had that glimmer in his eye that night! The last time I saw him was on Christmas Eve. We'd made some holiday goodies for friends and neighbors and had a special tray for Irby & Shirley. Christmas had almost come and we hadn't delivered it yet. So, at about 5:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Micah (my son) and I drove over to deliver the tray. Again we were warmly welcomed in and sat down to visit awhile (while there, my friend Phil Stambaugh and his parents dropped by too). It was a special little visit and Irby seemed pretty strong and was able to talk pretty well. He had that smile on his face again that night. I treasure these last two visits. I don't want to remember his weakened body, but I will remember getting to see his smile and joyful spirit.
Our lives go on. I'm praying for Shirley and other family members as they live on with a big hole in their lives. But I'm grateful for the inspiration and positive effect Irby had on me and so many others.
We sang "When the Night is Falling" and "There's a Stirring" with our Praise Team to begin the service. I've always wanted to use these great songs in a time like this and they were especially meaningful yesterday (a few of our team couldn't quite get through them as we sang). Later we sang "Amazing Grace" and "It Is Well With My Soul" congregationally (songs requested by the family). Toward the end of the service we did "Days of Elijah" (another request by Irby's wife, Shirley). It was done in a more subdued way than we normally would, but finally toward the end we started clapping and a few people even shouted out; it was pretty moving.
The most important thing about the time, however, was remembering what an incredible person Irby was. I remember being inspired by my Grandfather's life and thinking at his funeral about how I really want to emulate some things about him in my life. Yesterday was like that too. Irby was a very warm, caring person. Careful about speaking out, but generous in giving his time and effort to help others. He mentored scores and scores of young men (and some gals too) by taking them water skiiing, having them over to work on cars, or just hanging out. I've heard several guys say that when they got into trouble they'd call Irby instead of their own parents. Lots of people who've joined the Tomball Church of Christ over the years will say that Irby & Shirley were primary reasons that they came back after their initial visit; they were always warm and welcoming. Irby loved to have fun and always seemed to have a glint or twinkle in his eye (which often meant he was "up to something"). When I look around our church building, I see things everywhere that Irby did or maintained. How do you replace a guy like that?
The last few times I saw Irby, he wasn't doing too well physically. He'd been battling cancer for the last couple years and then had some heart trouble and other things start to pile up on him. It was hard to see a guy that had always been so strong and active be in such a weakened state. This wasn't the real Irby and I believe it was a blessing that he was released from this frail human flesh into his heavenly body.
I do want to share my last two times with him. On Dec. 11, a group of children and parents had gone caroling to two nursing homes in Tomball and then met for a little Christmas party. Someone (Bonnie Abel) suggested that we go over and sing to Irby. So seven carloads of us drove over to Irby & Shirley's. We weren't sure how we'd find Irby and were ready to sing from outside the door or maybe just step in and do a carol or two. Instead, we were all welcomed inside and gathered around the hospital-style bed that Irby was on in his living room. I don't know how Irby's body felt, but he smiled alot and sure seemed to enjoy it all; I even saw him wink at one or two of the little girls. He had that glimmer in his eye that night! The last time I saw him was on Christmas Eve. We'd made some holiday goodies for friends and neighbors and had a special tray for Irby & Shirley. Christmas had almost come and we hadn't delivered it yet. So, at about 5:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Micah (my son) and I drove over to deliver the tray. Again we were warmly welcomed in and sat down to visit awhile (while there, my friend Phil Stambaugh and his parents dropped by too). It was a special little visit and Irby seemed pretty strong and was able to talk pretty well. He had that smile on his face again that night. I treasure these last two visits. I don't want to remember his weakened body, but I will remember getting to see his smile and joyful spirit.
Our lives go on. I'm praying for Shirley and other family members as they live on with a big hole in their lives. But I'm grateful for the inspiration and positive effect Irby had on me and so many others.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Interim Worship Leader
Yesterday I decided to post a prayer request on WorshipForum.com for my job search and finances, etc. As I was typing the request, my cell phone rang and I got a call offering a position as "interim" Worship Minister with the Spring Woodlands Church of Christ. It's amazing how God's timing is!
So, here's what was offered -- and which I accepted today:
I'll receive a part-time cash salary to be the worship leader at SWCC starting Jan. 22, with a commitment through May 1st (but possibly longer). The salary is about what I could make at Tomball as part-time worship leader plus what I'd make subbing 15 days a month. My work days will be Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday morning at SWCC (so I could do some subbing or other work on MWF). They'll pay me the agreed amount even if I need to go do interviews at other places. They say I'm also still being considered for the long-term position too and that this will allow them to get to know me fully. This offer allows me to have some guaranteed income through most of the rest of this school year, which is what I was seeking as I continue looking for a full-time position.
Thanks for your prayers, my friends.
So, here's what was offered -- and which I accepted today:
I'll receive a part-time cash salary to be the worship leader at SWCC starting Jan. 22, with a commitment through May 1st (but possibly longer). The salary is about what I could make at Tomball as part-time worship leader plus what I'd make subbing 15 days a month. My work days will be Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday morning at SWCC (so I could do some subbing or other work on MWF). They'll pay me the agreed amount even if I need to go do interviews at other places. They say I'm also still being considered for the long-term position too and that this will allow them to get to know me fully. This offer allows me to have some guaranteed income through most of the rest of this school year, which is what I was seeking as I continue looking for a full-time position.
Thanks for your prayers, my friends.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Changes
Yesterday we un-did Christmas around here, inside and out. Now all the lights and decorations are boxed back up and in our attic. It always seems so dreary after everything's put away. I looked out our front window last night and the whole street just seemed dark, as if everyone not only took down their lights, but also decided not to turn on their porch lights either.
Today Lani's back at work. I know it was hard for her to get going. She's been drinking decaf coffee, but this morning when I made hers I mixed half and half decaf & regular (without her knowing -- just seemed like she needed a little boost!). Ha!
Due to my "unemployment" and need to be free for other work, we're switching Caleb and Levi to Lani's school. They don't want to go and we've been really happy with their teachers and opportunities in Tomball, but it's the only thing that makes sense for us right now. Just another one of those difficult decisions we're making.
Today Lani's back at work. I know it was hard for her to get going. She's been drinking decaf coffee, but this morning when I made hers I mixed half and half decaf & regular (without her knowing -- just seemed like she needed a little boost!). Ha!
Due to my "unemployment" and need to be free for other work, we're switching Caleb and Levi to Lani's school. They don't want to go and we've been really happy with their teachers and opportunities in Tomball, but it's the only thing that makes sense for us right now. Just another one of those difficult decisions we're making.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
New Year -- 2006
This seems like a good day to reflect back and look forward. . .
Looking back:
I've enjoyed so many good things this year -- good health, a blessed family, fun travel times, chances to sing, great kids, and a wonderful wife. I especially enjoyed singing with Hallel at Pepperdine and going to the Zoe conference in Nashville. Although I haven't landed a new job, I've enjoyed the experiences and relationships built with people in Michigan, Tennessee, Texas, and more. I've enjoyed having my daughter sing regularly on our praise team (and she gets compliments all the time!). I've (mostly) enjoyed having a new dog this last year, our "labradoodle", Molly.
Looking ahead:
Who knows what adventure, opportunities, and challenges lie ahead? I'm excited to be talking to churches in Oregon and Colorado about possible jobs (and some other places too). I'm concerned about our finances and how to keep things afloat, but still believe that God will take care of us. It's exciting to know that we will be moving somewhere new sometime this year; yet, it's difficult not knowing where and when and how it will all come together.
This new year should be one of the most interesting years of my life. Ready or not, here it is!
Looking back:
I've enjoyed so many good things this year -- good health, a blessed family, fun travel times, chances to sing, great kids, and a wonderful wife. I especially enjoyed singing with Hallel at Pepperdine and going to the Zoe conference in Nashville. Although I haven't landed a new job, I've enjoyed the experiences and relationships built with people in Michigan, Tennessee, Texas, and more. I've enjoyed having my daughter sing regularly on our praise team (and she gets compliments all the time!). I've (mostly) enjoyed having a new dog this last year, our "labradoodle", Molly.
Looking ahead:
Who knows what adventure, opportunities, and challenges lie ahead? I'm excited to be talking to churches in Oregon and Colorado about possible jobs (and some other places too). I'm concerned about our finances and how to keep things afloat, but still believe that God will take care of us. It's exciting to know that we will be moving somewhere new sometime this year; yet, it's difficult not knowing where and when and how it will all come together.
This new year should be one of the most interesting years of my life. Ready or not, here it is!
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