WOW – does our culture ever live for surprises – in fact I believe one of the foundations of entertainment in this country is SURPRISE. We tune into reality shows because they are unpredictable. . . it is the fact that we don’t know what is going to happen. . . that drives us to see what actually happens. Whether it is the mind bending movie of Inception or the twisted trail traveled in Lost – Americans live for surprises in stories, in fact we wait in suspense all week – reading blogs, tweets, and facebook updates from others- just anticipating the possible storylines that could occur in the next episode. In essence, the amount of surprise and unpredictability is directly related to how interesting something is. . . . and quantities of interest is the currency of entertainment.
Does this concern anyone?? It does me for several reasons, but I will only focus on one right now.
Flat out. . . when was the last time the Bible surprised you?? I mean. . . . many of us already know the stories. . . we know what is going to happen. . . there is always a rainbow after the flood. Many times I feel like the church focuses so much on memorizing that they forget to help feed the desire that we all have for surprises. . . . they forget to remind us that the Bible is the living Word. . . capable of being fresh and new every day!
I have been really affected recently about how many Christians are no longer surprised by what they read in the Bible – as if already knowing the story limits God’s ability to speak to them in a fresh and new way. So whether they are teens or adults – of course they are going to think that the Bible is boring, stale, and not relevant. But, they are missing out, and we need to tell them of the surprises, help them become more interested - For example, John 2:15 really surprises me – and not because Jesus is getting really mad and clearing the temple (though surprising to some who never heard this – I already knew the story!), but in the details of story that I had never realized before. . . . . Jesus made a whip . . . . He did not borrow a whip. He did not buy a whip. No. . . . He made a whip. Since when did my savior know how to make a whip. . . . remember He was a carpenter – not a lot of need for whip making.
Not only did He make a whip – he obviously made one that was in good quality (considering He used it quite extensively), and He had to have made it quickly (since He was already mad, and had not cooled off yet – we all do things very quickly when we are this upset). In addition, HE KNEW HOW TO USE A WHIP – - – - have you ever tried to move a cow?? yeah, not easy – much less countless numbers of people doing their normal business, but the scripture says that he drove everything from cattle to merchants out of the temple courtyard – translation. . . . He was using a mean whip. WOW – Jesus had to have had practiced all of these things – from whip making to knowing how to use it. . . . . well, I just had never pictured Jesus doing that . . . . I guess we know one thing that He did before His ministry started at 30.
As I sat in my chair thinking about all of this – it just really surprised me, and in that “didn’t see that coming” thought. . . . Jesus became more real to me. . . a new point of human connection. . . I always wanted to be able to play with a whip ever since I first saw Indiana Jones!!! What a surprise, and I wanted more – - – interested?? Try this - I want to encourage all of us to pray “God surprise me” before reading scripture in the next few days. This process has really encouraged me as of late, and so I wanted to pass it along to you.
go . . . live. . . and be surprised by the God who created surprises!
WOW - faculty retreat – there has been a lot, but here is some wisdom that I have picked up in no particular order:
10. You can love someone without ever spending more than 20 seconds with them. Love is like the beauty of the ocean depths, but many of us still only use waders in the waters of love.
9. 1 Corinthians 13:13
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. – have you ever wondered why love is the greatest? I am not sure, but a colleague of mine suggested that maybe its because love is the only one that is eternal – you see, in heaven there will little need for faith or hope, but love. . . . . love will always be there.
8.The places where I am most unlike Christ is where God wants to work the most
7. One of my goals needs to be: Radical abandonment to God and radical availability to others.
6. True Christlikeness comes at the point where it is hard NOT to respond as He would – D. Willard
5. I am as holy as I want to be – be disciplined – most imporatnt things in life do not seem urgent in the moment.
4. Fact: Life intune with God is nurtured by time alone
3. Almost everything that is worthwhile in life is difficult at first
2. It is delusion to think that a great relationship with God can be carried on sloppily
1. Do our lives look like we want to HEAR from God? Time for silence is MADE not found.
Finally, . . . simply. . . a true learner obeys -
This was so much fun – seriously, thanks all to Ben Sanders (brilliant. . . and from California) who lets me run with my crazy ideas. I love being able to serve with such talented people at my church 
. . . Bryant family fun!
This is a video of the “Feed” – which is our church’s way of doing announcements – enjoy!
The Feed 7.31.2010 from Ben Sanders on Vimeo.
Thanks again Ben!
Yes, I know that we have all heard most of the stories about David in the Bible, he killed a lot of people (Philistines in particular) and certain wild animals with tremendous courage and fortitude as the ultimate underdog with strange weaponry. He reigned over God’s people, committed aldutery and murder, was the father of Soloman and Jesus Christ was born from his lineage. I do not want to down play any of those things – for they are an entire sermon series/books in an of themselves. . . . but I have been surprised recently by some new twists in his story that have spoken to me:
no chance right
- http://yankeerev.wordpress.com
1. Opportunities to kill giants in your life usually come when you are focused on some other task and seemingly “unprepared”: this just makes sense, the enemy is going to try and attack you when you are distracted and don’t have what you think you need (i.e.bringing food to your brothers at the front lines. . .without armor or a sword) – but in that moment. . . our task-oriented focus MUST ALWAYS be vulnerable to the opportunities of God almighty.
2. You can defeat the giants in your life with what you already know how to do: Do you are do you not trust that God will never forsake you (Heb 13:5). If so then live believing that God’s work in your life IS THE PREPARATION for the giants. It may have only been a sling and 5 stones, but David knew how to use them . . . . what do you already know how to do that can help defeat your giant(s) – thanks Rob Wegner for this insight recently.
3. If you truly believe then run: Simply put. . . David KNEW victory was at hand – so he ran (1 Samuel 18:48) towards Goliath. Seriously, if we trust that God is good all the time and is always with us then why hesitate – NO – let’s get off our butts and run into battle. . . no excuses. . . victory is not waiting on God. . . it is waiting on us!
4. If you ever think you have workplace drama/issues as well as in-law issues? Read 1 Samuel 18,19 – Boss/King/Father-in-law trying to murder (literally) David many times. . . . . and what did David do? What should all of us do? He trusted God more than he hated the situation - remained obedient to God amidst the confusion/stress/anxiety. . . he did not quit on God.
5. God could have put anyone in the lineage of Jesus His son. . . anyone – who did he pick? David of course. . . .but also, Bathsheba (Mathew 1). . . this is our God - He took one of the most shameful acts in all of Israel’s history, and redeemed it. . . it is simply who He is – it’s called grace and it blows me away! Have you ever had someone that you have associated/and put trust in fail you?? yeah . . . pretty rough. . . . what’s even more difficult sometimes is to follow in God’s footsteps – claim and redeem their willing heart.
- http://miketodd.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c65c453ef010536d4981b970c-pi
Why do they call them leaps?
Because it’s not just a step. . . it’s not even a jump. . . it is something that you are choosing to do that inherently has quite a bit of risk – it is pushing you to the edges of your ability or capacity.
Why are they so good?
I believe that they are a critical part of our spiritual race because it forces us to rely on God who promises to be reliable and that in our weakness (or vulnerability – i.e., whatever is being risked in the “leap”) His strength is made perfect. Then at the aftermath of the leap. . . whether it turns out exactly how we thought it would or not. . . God is once again shown to be both GOOD and FAITHFUL. . . . thus, giving us memories or stories to share with each other that both edifies the Church, and constructs protective barriers around our heart from the bitter root of unbelief that tries to grow from time to time. These stories of God touching our lives in profound ways when we need it the most becomes the comforting evidence that He is always with us, and always wants what is best for us. They also can be seeds that are sowed to our children and grand-children.
Sadly, many of us are so far removed from the enslavement of the Hebrews in Egypt or the parting of the red sea – or even the passover to feel a tangible peace and comfort from recounting those stories. . . . but when we “leap” at God-ordained moments – new stories are born. . . . fresh evidence is discovered for us personally – that can inspire us to not just land from the leap, but to run full-speed ahead into whatever God has in store.
I took a leap today. . . . and no I can’t tell you what it is – not yet at least — but, I believe it is what God is calling me to do. . . . and once you believe something . . . . truly believe something – there is no reason to simply walk to your opposition or decision. . . no, look at what David did with Goliath in 1 Sam 17 – he ran to meet the giant, why delay when you know that victory is at hand?? David needed no last minute preparation. . . his life WAS his preparation – same way with your leaps of faith – God has been preparing you for this moment for longer than you could ever know. . . trust Him. . . and take off!
I have some friends and family dealing with some very challenging diagnoses recently, and it just breaks my heart. I know that we all have difficulties, and we all wish that we could simply hold on to the gratefullness and perspective that we feel upon our return from a mission trip or after heart-wrenching movie or newscast. . . . . . but, it is so hard to be consistently grateful, especially when the world seems to crashing down around you, which is why these reminders are so important to me. I am reminded of the value of grateful heart NOT out of pity for someone else’s situation, but out of the strength that I see as they fight for hope, maintain focus, and abolutely refuse to give up! So, read the following passage and let it penetrate into your struggle right now -
If you learn to trust me – really trust me – with your whole being, then nothing can separate you from my peace. Everything you endure can be put to good use by allowing it to train you in trusting Me. This is how you foil the works of evil, growing in grace through the very adversity that was meant to harm you. Joseph was a prime example of this divine rehearsal, declaring to his brothers: “you meant evil againt me, but God meant it for good”. Do not fear what this day, or any day, may bring your way. Concentrate on trusting Me and on doing what needs to be done. Relax in My sovereignty, remembering that I go before you, as well as with you, into each day. Fear no evil, for I can bring good out of every situation you will ever encounter.
—-From the “Jesus Calling” devotional by Sarah Young. Genesis 50:20; Psalm 23;4.
and finally, one of my favorite passages of scripture (Hebrews 12:12-13) because it fuels me to live to the edge of my possibility:
12 So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. 13 Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.
As Christ-followers, we want our children to be able to try and understand what GRACE means as early as possible in their lives. Grasping this concept not only helps them understand the heart of God, but it will help protect them from one of the biggest lies of the enemy, which basically is – you are what you do. . . . . if you make a mistake – you are a mistake. . . . and you are only worthy of love if you do great things ~ the religion of performance.
Some recent insights:
1. Lie/expectation that the world teaches us: that if we give our kids the best of who we are we will always feel loved by them, and get their best in return. . . how many of you know that is not how it works – at least not in the short run. You see. . . . kids are often times on their “best behavior” around other people, and then forget about things like manners, being nice, and respectful when around their own parents/siblings. Not unlike why many spouses get the left-overs of their spouse when they are at home, because there it is safe to be tired, stressed, and cranky. Do not let how your child treats you sometimes to determine your joy as a parent nor your measure of whether or not your child knows they are loved.
2. God says – me too: It is at this point that I feel even closer to God, because that is exactly what we do to Him – He easily gave His best for us – several times throughout history, and of course the greatest being His own son for us. . . . and yet we often times give Him our left-overs, our worst – our inauthentic praise, extra money at the end of the month, sour attitudes, complaining tongues, shortest memories of his blessings, least amount of trust, and shortest patience.
3. Always remember: Modeling in relationships is one of the most powerful ways that our children learn anything about relationships. . . . even more than what we tell them. That being said, there is no way to model grace to our children without us being treated unfairly or badly by them. Their mistreatment of us opens the door of opportunity for us to show grace to them. . . it is at this point of receiving what they do not deserve, without strings attached, that brings the awareness of God’s heart = unconditional love.
Keep loving your children of all ages well
Here is a topic that I am pretty passionate about, and I especially get amped up for this discussion in my Adolescent Growth & Development class because I hear so many teens wanting to talk about it and so many adults too scared to discuss it with them??? To which I say. . . WHAT!!!! – A.) The teen actually wants to talk and B.) they are actually open to your guidance on an issue. . . . and we, as adults, are too scared to engage – ahhhh!!!. . . . and it is not just teens – children and adults too – Church. . . .we must do better.
Anyways, I want to share just briefly a few things that have helped clarify some of the issues in my class discussions, and also a couple of videos that have been great for discussion.
First of all, this is not a religion or philosophy class, and so I do not debate the sin nature of homosexuality in class because that is what most of the students expect – a debate about what is the TRUTH. . . . consequently, in my experience, that is the only thing the students are prepared to take about. We take the stance of many churches – that homosexual behavior is a sin. . . and we go from there (I have additional materials for the students about the “truth” debate if they want it, and the subject is covered in more detail in other ways here at Bethel). . . it is amazing to me; however, that many people cannot even think past this truth concept – to see that there are other very important issues about this topic that we are failing to address.
Another way of viewing my purpose is to look at a familar phrase:
Truth in love (Eph 4:15) - Once again, not messing with the truth part – that is definitely a huge part of how Jesus was uncommon, but the “in love” – which is an expression of “how” we are to express the truth – that is what made him a walking revolution - he was revolutionary not just for what he said but for what he did - healing on the Sabbath, touching the leper, going to Matthew’s house, talking to the woman at well, and associating with prostitutes! He chose to not condemn the world, but to save it (John 3:17). . . which starts with forming a relationship with someone, getting to know someone before we could ever share “truth” about heated issues.
In my experience, when people focus only on the truth in these situations then judgement/condemnation is already on its way – and can be felt by those around them. However, when I focus on the “in love” then judgement stays away, and the other person is more open to talking because they trust that I care about them. . . not just their sexuality. . . – I refuse to live in a way that reduces the immense/Jesus sacrificing value of another human being’s life and experience to simply an alterior motive and/or a grossly stereotyped label. . . and I think Jesus models that behavior over and over in scripture.
Videos:
Interesting dichotomies here to notice in these videos:
Acceptance vs Approval - we use these terms interchangeably at times with regard to this issue, and yet these terms are critically different.
Attitude vs Belief- Again, attitudes may change without changes in beliefs. . . .misusing these terms can cause serious wounds.
Watch this video to get a fresh look at “hate the sin, love the sinner”. . . one of the most popular Christian phrases regarding this issue.
OK – don’t give me a hard time . . . I know that it is March, and I am just now posting our letter and video – sorry about that. I was in a cave for around 4 months – but better later than never right
We spend quite a bit of time on our letter, because we feel that having clear, intentional communication is very important – especially when you KNOW that people are going to be reading it. We just feel like this is yet another opportunity that God gives us each year to give Him glory by sharing the story of the past year as witnesses to what God is up to in our lives. So, here is the letter that we wrote and the video recap of our multiple celebrations!!!
THE LETTER:
The adventure continues 2009
Philippians 4:6: “do not be anxious about anything, but through prayer and petition submit everything to God, and He will give you a peace that passes all understanding.”
What a wonderful year this has been full of so much adventure. The year had such a difficult beginning with the loss of Ted’s aunt and uncle (Phil and Louie Rieman). They were such tremendous servants of peace and love, dedicated to trying to bring the Kingdom of God to everyone they encountered. They are greatly missed –
Inspired by their legacy and the injustices witnessed through his trip to India, Ted began a journey to grow greenLockers (www.greenlockers.org – his non-profit organization) this past year, and God continues to bless the project with over 17 schools participating producing 9,000 lbs of supplies, which were given to 23 different charities in the area, as well as to orphans in Mexico and India. Ted continues to love teaching and mentoring students at Bethel, and has been humbled and honored by the influence that he holds on campus and in our community.
Angela feels privileged to be at home enjoying the little moments each day with the kids. She continues to equip psychology students teaching at Bethel one night a week. With a passion for family and fulfilling relationships, she loves getting to mentor several young women on campus as well as developing new curricula for the premarital counseling seminars at our Church.
As blessed as we feel with all of that, it pales in comparison to the newest addition to our family. Dane Justice Bryant was loaned to us on 3.3.09, and our lives have been enriched ever since. He is such a good boy with his favorite activities including pulling himself up on anything he can grab onto, and trying to sneak away from us to crawl as fast as he can to the dog food and water bowls!! J. Elliana, Kya, and Dakota are great with him – they love him so much!
Elliana started Kindergarten this year. . . she is growing up way too fast (ok, now I sound old J). Her and Kya both love their new public Montessori school that they are attending. Dakota gets to have some great time with Mommy and baby Dane in the morning, and he loves to “read” books.
Amidst the planning, and efforts to raise kids well, fulfill responsibilities at work, church, and in our community. . . . we were interrupted in September of this year. Since we know God loves interrupting our lives (i.e., look back at our track history the past 10 years), we decided to listen. What we heard was a call to help the broken children all around us by becoming a foster family. We have completed the paperwork and begin training early next year, with our first placement probably happening in March sometime. . . . the adventure continues J. We are excited and nervous, but have decided – like most of the rest of this year – to live in Phil. 4:6. God has got our back, and so we are committed to love boldly in the opportunities He places before us.
We love you all so much, and are incredibly blessed to have you in our lives. We hope and pray that you and your families have the opportunity to love, and be loved, like never before this Christmas season!! Peace & love to all!
THE VIDEO
Christmas celebration 2009 from Ted Bryant on Vimeo.
So, we are in the middle of a parenting series at Church (GCC – you can follow this link to watch the full service), and this past weekend really made an impact on Ang and I. Mark Beeson encouraged us think about the vision, mission, and values of our family. Now, Ang and I had thought about doing this before, and there have even been a few times in the past few years that we actually set aside time to work on this. . . . . and . . . . nothing happened – something came up, . . . we just weren’t feeling like it that day, etc….. – you might have had similar days/thoughts.
So, chalk this up to a way in which becoming foster parents has already made us more intentional parents – we no longer have any time to linger in figuring this out. Don’t get me wrong, . . . I feel like Ang and I communicate well, and are on the same page 99% of the time when it comes to parenting, but that reality is not an excuse for not thinking through these concepts and getting them on paper. The way that I see it – it will only improve our parenting and our family as we have something that we can return to and remember where our focus is – AND it is a tremendous tool to create a COMMON LANGUAGE of intention and purpose in our family that we can pass on to our children. . . . . so, . . . yes. . . this will be hanging in our house
Here is what we have come up with
THE VISION (why do we do what we do):
The Bryant family has been given tremendous privilege, talent, resources, and heart to do great things for the Kingdom of God, and we will live to that purpose because we believe that loving other people first as Jesus does – without the worldly conditions of status, characteristics, beliefs, or past behavior – is the highest call given to us.
THE MISSION (what are the steps that we take towards the vision):
As a family we seek to always give God maximum glory by worshiping Him through all of our daily activities – regardless of the circumstances. This starts with daily submitting our priorities, attitude, time, service, and provision to the LORD. In addition to studying the truth found in the Bible, we will critically educate ourselves in the opportunities that God has placed before us and seek with great perseverance to be the best stewards of His gifts, which He has so generously poured out to us. If God’s revealed will is somehow in conflict with our own wants and levels of comfort, we will choose to “get over it” and trust Him. We refuse to believe that the greatest life that God wants for us is one of ease, but one that is full (Jn 10:10) – living at the edge of all possibility – accepting both the good days and the difficult ones. The Bryant family will always stand to fight against the enemy and his lies, and will not shrink back from the mantle of carrying the good news to ALL the world.
THE VALUES (how do we treat each other):
1. We choose truth over lying in every situation – regardless of the consequences that may follow.
2. We will treat each other with unconditional love – being accepting, respectful, and kind.
3. We will seek to serve one another before receiving.
4. We will encourage each other in every activity – choosing to build up, and never to tear down.
5. We will choose to view conflict as a tool for unification instead of division.
6. We will be grateful, not greedy.
7. We will sharpen each other to be healthy spiritually, psychologically, physically, intellectually, and socially.
8. We will generously give grace to each other – choosing forgiveness over condemnation.
9. We will try our best knowing that is all God ever asks of us no matter the result.
10. We will stand up for one another, and be there for each other no matter the sacrifice.
11. We will genuinely listen, seeking understanding not only of words but of the heart.
12. We will bring our fun with us; wherever God takes us .
- I encourage you, at whatever stage of life that you are in – to take the time to do this . . . establish your focus in life. . . it is worth the time and effort!
So, our square day (3/3/09) baby turned 1 a couple of days ago, and I just couldn’t believe how fast it happened. Ang and I love our little Daner (that’s one of our nicknames for him). He has been almost the first to do everything in his first year – including rolling over, crawling, and walking. Besides having an unbelievable grip (I have to pry his fingers off of me sometimes), he also has been very creative in how he moves around our non-carpeted floors. Basically, he will get behind almost anything that scoots (i.e., chairs, trashcans, dog, etc…), and uses them as his personal walker/transportation device to get across the room. He is currently up to about 5 steps on his own, so, I think the non-walking days are soon to be done. It has been quite an amazing adventure this year with him, and I remember going into the hospital with Ang for his birth – like it was yesterday. We pray that God continues to give us the wisdom needed to raise him (and our other children) in God-honoring ways – with a love for Jesus that will always give them the strength and courage to love others well.
Once again, I can’t believe how God continues to expand our hearts to love him so much – our other children just adore him, and Ang and I are grateful for the honor of raising Dane Justice Bryant – here is a video recap of his first year. NOW listen, I am an amateur at the whole movie making thing – so please don’t judge – these songs were specifically selected to be a prayer for our relationship with him, and how he will honor God throughout his life. He was dedicated to God this past year, and that is a commitment that Ang and I take very seriously. . . . . and we are going to have a lot of fun along the way!!
Dane’s first year video from Ted Bryant on Vimeo.
1. Dakota – “ELEPHANT!”. . . Ang – “no, it’s chicken” (Ang was putting it into the oven)
2. I’m cleaning up, and I hear Ang say in the other room to one of the kids. . . “We’re not tying your brother up tonight”. . . .
3. Kya, Elli, and I are playing soccer in the living room, and Kya is the referee trying to decide who should get the ball first. . . . coin toss? No. . . He asks – “Elli, do you like green eggs and ham”, Elliana: “Yes”, Kya – “OK your ball first” . . . . . WOW – I had no chance on that one!
4. I say “why is Dane trying to eat my ear?” . . .Ang – “he is just trying to give you a kiss” . . . Me – “are you sure? that sounds like some famous last words” . . . Ang – “yes, it is just what he has been doing today” . . . Me – “ok” . . .Dane (11months) gives me a kiss on the ear, and then . . . Me – “ouch!”. . . Dane “***laugh*” . . . .
5. 2:30 a.m. and Dakota is calling Ang from his bed. . . “MAAAAAHHHHHMMEEEEEEEE, MAAAAHHHHHMMMEEEEE” – So, Ang gets up and goes into his bedroom (Dakota sleeps on the bottom bunk, and Kya is up top), and Dakota asks Ang “Ice cream shop?” – Ang – “later”. . . Dakota “OK” and he goes back to sleep. I love how Ang didn’t even try to say “no” to Dakota’s request to have ice cream in the middle of the night, but just redirected it. . . “Brilliant”!
- the really funny thing is that this is almost every day/weekend – I love being a dad so much. It is by no means fun and games all the time, but they really do crack me up sometimes. Praise God that I get to have them in my house for a few years !
****OH, and I just heard from Ang that we have been officially liscensed as foster parents by the state!!!. We (and especially Ang) has worked so hard on this process the last 5 months, and now we just wait. . . . and keep praying for the one who will soon show up at our door, not wanting to come in, but having to – - praying that God will use us to show them love. . . unconditional love.
John Piper had these videos on his blog yesterday, and I just needed to share them with you. As you know, I went to India last year, and currently work with a leadership team at our church considering how to continue to bring the kingdom of God there, and we sponsor an Indian child through Compassion . . . .OK – you get the drift. . . India is very important to my family.
THIS IS HAPPENING. . . . Yes, it is very disturbing. . . . but, the real point is – what will you do to change the life you live today after watching it.
Persecution in India: Unedited Footage from Cornerstone Church on Vimeo.
Now listen to Chan’s response:
Persecution in India: Francis’ Response from Cornerstone Church on Vimeo.
LIVE BETTER BECAUSE OF THIS TODAY
We are excited and scared today as we take our fingerprints at an agency downtown. Everything then gets sent down to the state, and we have 30 days to get liscensed. What a culmination of a process that began back in August of 2009 when Ang said to me – “I really think God is calling us to be foster parents.” To which I replied. . . . “nah . . .” – I just wasn’t there yet. . . little did I know that God was just up to his old tricks
In the past 6 months we have:
- received CPR and First aid training for infants through adults
- been through a wide assortment of medical testing – bloodwork (including our children), TB tests, physcals, etc…
- started praying about a wounded soul coming into our home
- been to 30 hours of training
- read numerous articles (and tested on them)
- had a water test done
- background checks
- prayed more
- seen the disbelief in others eyes (and diagnosis of insanity) when telling them our news
- been drawn to the severe need all around us for GOOD foster homes
- spent countless hours completing over 50 pages of paperwork
- cancelled plans for a major trip this summer
- rejoiced at the perspective of the honor it is to truly help another human life.
- grieved the loss of convenience, comfort, and predictability that was hoped for in several areas of our life
- been drawn closer to God than ever before. . . . He really is in control
- reevaluated finances, eating habits, priorities, and spiritual goals within our own family – we want to be ready. . . . as ready as anyone can be.
God called Ang into this very strongly 6 months ago. . . . and He showed me, only after I trusted my wife AND opened my heart to actually hearing God. I’ll admit it, I didn’t ask the question for a long time because I was scared of what the answer might be. I felt like Joseph (only on a much smaller scale), needing to be visited by and Angel to confirm what his Mary had told him.
No angels for me, it just took my submission of the prideful and arrogant thought that I subconsciously held onto: “God has got to tell me eveything that He wants to do in this family, He needs to tell me first before we move forward – He will always go through me on the big stuff – I am the head of the household remember.”
PLUS – You know – I backed off my schedule a little bit this Spring so that I could focus more on what I felt called to do with greenlockers. . . . it was all about me, me, me - ”What gives God? – How am I supposed to get things done that you have called me too when you keep adding stuff to our plate?, we don’t have time for this, and we already have not slept in 7 years – I thought we were just getting to the point of balance – what are you trying to do here?”
Praise God He is patient when we seek Him. . . and Praise God that He is willing to trust us with bringing His kingdom – even when I act so selfish and childish (Ang has been so steadfast throughout this whole process – just AMAZING). Then on the way to work one day when I was genuinely open to hearing God’s voice I heard Him say “Ted, do you really think you are going to be the only one that I am going to use in your family to do great things? . . . Have you seen your wife lately? She’s amazing! . . . and I have amazing things in store for her too. . . trust me!”
So, I am leaving right now to get fingerprints. . . . let the wonderful adventure of being part of God’s kingdom take its next step. . . 1, 2, 3. . . JUMP
I really can’t complain at all, in fact – I can only give praise to God for the wonderful memories He has given us as gifts so for the Fall. Here are the picture highlights – enjoy
My Highlights
1. It all starts with Kya’s 4th birthday – it was great to be able to celebrate with Nana and Papa at the water park. Later, I took the older two for some go-kart runs!!
2. Lots of fun family photos!
3. Dane’s first taste of “solid” food – ok. . . nearly liquefied sweet potatoes – but it still counts!
4. A baseball game with the older two kids
5. First days at school for the kids
6. Lots. . . and I do mean lots. . . of pictures of Dane the last few months
7. My new Block class at Bethel – doing a team building low ropes course!
8. TREMENDOUS dedication to Phil and Louie at Manchester’s Peace garden – such an honor to be able to call them family. Also, a retirement dinner for Gary Zimmerman.
9. I don’t think bath pictures ever get old!!
10. Finally, a great day at Potatoe Creek State Park yesterday – playgrounds, a mile hike in the forest, a prairie maze, picnic, and of course Dakota found his hiking stick – just his size!!
In your life . . . what is your marshmallow that may be consuming your thoughts?
Though our marshmallows are often more complex than this illustration, our obsession with them is no less intense, and our consumption of them no less obvious. Allow the Holy Spirit to give you eyes to see and ears to hear today what these might be in your life.
- Thanks Sue for the video
Last week at Bethel, we focused on sexuality in the chapel messages, and I thought that I would share some or the message material with you along with a few of my opinions mixed in.
The Walterhouses shared their story with us, which involved his addiction to porn for almost 20 years starting at age 14, and carrying through his entire training to be a pastor and his pastorship until he was caught. No one knew. . . . . not his wife. . . . . not his “accountability” partner. . . . no one. These are some lies that he believe that kept him in bondage:
1. I’m the only person struggling with this sin - now he knew others were dealing with it, but not as bad as him, and wasn’t it supposed to go away after marriage – that’s what other people had told him. . . . what was wrong with him??
2. Everyone struggles with this sin (Lie of rationalization/justification) – in other words, when he heard his discipleship leader make a comment about “just because he is on a diet [i.e., he is married] doesn’t mean he can’t look at the menu” – he figured that this is just a man’s cross to bare, and that all men are dealing with it, so it is really not that big a deal.
3. I’m not hurting anyone else (Lie of denial) – this is just affecting me, noone else is getting hurt. Side not here from me – first of all, “you bring you into every relationship, thus, if you are affected then all of your relationships are affected!” Second, you only have a limited amount of passion and desire, and if you are using up some or most of it on porn, then guess who gets short-changed?. . . . your spouse, your friends, your vocation, etc….
4. I can get victory over this sin (Lie of self-effort) – in other words, if I would just confess it enough, pray about it enough, go to enough church camps, etc…. (his list was fairly long here) . . . then I can kick this thing myself, and noone has to know.
5. I can NEVER get victory over this sin (Lie of hopelessness) – After believing lie #4 and trying as hard as he could many, many times. . . he came to the conclusion that all was hopeless in conquering this. Side note from me: this is not uncommone to see with those struggling with addiction, and it goes something like this. People can maybe envision being strong for a few hours, or a day, but once they start imagining being strong for a week or 2 weeks, a month? – they feel overwhelmed, b/c there is no way they are strong enough for that!! and so they say “screw-it” might as well just give in now. . . .
You know what . . . part of them is right – the state they are in right now, they can’t make it a month, but the secret (that the enemy does not want you to know) is that Day 12 is not as hard as Day 1, and that you are being transformed throughout, so that one day at a time. . . you are getting stronger – sure you will fall, but God is there to keep building you up.
So, keys to victory, according to the Walterhouses:
1. Press in clost to the heart of God – emphasis on the HEART! – and that heart is of love and grace, yes. . . . even for this! He is ready to help and bring you back home!
2. be open with your sexual struggles (or hidden sin) with someone that has bite – in other words confess in a radical way – to people that might leave a mark (i.e., a spouse, an RD, etc…)
3. Call it what it really is. . . . Sin and Lies - and just like any sin, when grown fully leads to death.
One last note from my heart on this:
Deep within each man is a desire to be wanted, and wanted sexually – those images, those pictures. . . you know what they are telling men? “I want you” – “I WANT YOU” – “you don’t have to change, I will except you just the way you are, you don’t have to work to convince me – I am all yours”. That temptation strikes to the core of most men – you take into consideration that men or visually driven, and you have the recipe for a “fall.”
There is so much more to be said on this, but that is it for now – pray for the boys/men and girls/women that are in this addiction right now please – they need all of our help.
I was recently asked to put my thoughts down concerning when I feel most connected with God and disconnected from God. I only listed my top two insights in both categories, but I thought I would share them with you:
I feel God closest in either one of two ways. First, when I am in a different culture than my own – especially on a mission trip of some sort. I have been blessed to be able to travel around the world quite a bit, and many times I see God most clearly when I am staring into the face and the life of someone who is doesn’t look, act, or talk like me. Second, when I am on my last leg. This may the result of busyness sometimes, but when I need to get something done, but have no idea how to do it. . . .and no time to figure it out. . . God comes through in the clutch for me, when I am most vulnerable – I love that about Him!
There are also 2 main ways that I feel disconnected from God. First, a little background . . . see, many people are told the lie that “they’re not good enough” for much of their life – maybe from Mom and Dad, or a teacher, coach, or peer – and that can bury people, but that was not the case for me. See, most of my life I have been told, by many well-meaning people, a different lie that is just as dangerous – “I AM good enough.” At times, I can believe that I have all that it takes to succeed on my own – the talent, experience, athletic ability, looks, intellect, marriage, family, etc…. when I do, God usually feels distant b/c I have usually left Him in the dust. Second, I have often times in my life had an idol of “happiness” – and I pursue it fervently – moreso than God. Now, this is not neccesarily pursuing shallow things or buying “toys”, in fact, I am often times worshiping happiness with just establishing the simple expectation every day that a successful, God-honoring day must entail me being happy by the end of it. This is what I now know to be true – true happiness/joy cannot be pursued directly, but it is a perspective that is gained ONLY as a result of pursuing and trusting in God’s plans/purposes/work for me each and every day. Some days are difficult others. . . not so much – over time God’s spirit inside of me is teaching me the perspective of true joy, but when I ignore this guidance, and worship happiness – I distance myself from God.
I love my wife so much, and feel so honored to be able to be on this journey of life with her. It is so amazing to be able to do things like teach a journey class bible study with her in our church! She inspires me with her steadfast dedication to me and the kids – even during difficult days (and nights!), and most importantly – to the vision and grace of Christ. She will never get the appreciation she deserves this side of heaven for how well she loves our family (with such sacrifice!), and the light that she brings to those whose life intersects hers – even if for just a moment.
I posted this video not because I am comparing her to Ruth Graham, but because I don’t want to wait to tell my wife how much she means to me – and how much light and life she brings to me daily!
Well, I closed the pool this past weekend, which is always the official end of Summer for the Bryant household (at least until we can afford a pool heater!). So, I thought I would catch you up on some of the highlights of the last few weeks – there are quite a few pix – enjoy!
My highlights:
1. Silverhawks Baseball game with Elli and Kya. . . and the ice cream of the future (dippin dots) – for the past 20 years!!!
2. Dress up time – caped crusaders and the hat club
3. Open house for Elliana’s and Kya’s new school – they were pretty pumped to get a locker!!
4. Actual first days of school for both (Kya’s picture is at the end).
5. Typical reading time in Kya’s bed – it is getting a bit crowded!
6. The smiling Dane show!
7. Boy group pictures, and then a little love from big sis!
8. Squeeze from Nana, and then had to get Dane in ND gear for the first game of the season!!