Little Drummer Boy

I had a fun time this morning at our Sunday gathering.  I enjoyed having a number of conversations during our continental breakfast and hearing four of our worship leaders lead on one team!  We sang a few Christmas carols of which "Little Drummer Boy" was one.  I've never actually reflected on the words of the song until today and never realized how powerful they are.  My eyes welled up with tears when we sang that song as I was reminded of how little I have to offer my Saviour, but in my offering it to Him, He is pleased!

Although Wilf and the team did a much cooler version, and this version below is much cheezier, take time to hear the words.

Words to Live By

Psalm 32
1 Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 2 Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit. 3 When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. 4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. "Selah" 5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord"-- and you forgave the guilt of my sin. "Selah" 6 Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him. 7 You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. "Selah" 8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. 9 Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. 10 Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. 11 Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!

My First Experience with Coffee

My biological clock is ticking.  This August something in me (not my wife) said that I needed to stop wearing t-shirts and start wearing more age-appropriate clothing.  So I went out and purchased a few shirts and sweaters on my own (risky venture, but Angela approved of my purchases).  Now there are usually 1-2 days a week wear I have a relapse and my t-shirt drawer calls my name, but for the most part I've started dressing a little more mature.... just a little.  Don't get your hopes up too much.... I'm still decades away from a suit.

Then in October I started to desire coffee like never before.  I wondered if this was just a random urge, but having another kid and starting a new role at the church fanned into flame my desire for the devil's brew (that's what Christians in Rome called it medieval times).  The desire just wouldn't go away.  I had never had coffee before (not even a sip) and always looked at my discipline with a sort of pride.  I pitied people who couldn't function in the morning without it; making their way to the coffee maker or Starbucks like zombies.

But after eight weeks of sleepless nights, I broke down.  The social pressure to drink coffee, my tired eyes, and the lure of the aroma overwhelmed me and so I took my daughter on our weekly Starbucks date and ordered a grande dark roast.  I took a sip and it was disgusting.  I took a few more sips and disliked it even more.  Then I added a bunch of half and half, but that didn't help at all.  So round one of my introduction to coffee was horrible.  I think next time I'll try a triple-triple from Tim Horton's.

Scary Santa Claus

There is something about big old men in bright red suits that is scary (just ask our two year old daughter)!  From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!

Big B Will Be Missed

UPDATE:  A memorial service will be held in our auditorium on Saturday, January 9, 1:00pm.

This past Sunday a beloved member of our church was promoted and is now with Jesus!  If you are new to our church, you might not have had the opportunity to meet B as he had been struggling with serious health issues over the past few years (and most of his life).

When I reflect on Big B's life I can't do anything but smile.  I remember always hearing him before I saw him (he had a loud booming voice and when he wanted your attention, he got it).  I remember his sarcastic comments and how most of them were humourous in nature :).  I also remember how encouraging and generous he could be as well.

Big B also made our church a better church.  Due to his physical and social challenges many people would have written him off, but our church loved and supported him.  We gave him rides, advice, prayer, visits, meals, cleaned up his house, helped him move things, rescued him when his scooter died, and friendship.  While all of these things cost us something (time, money, and energy) our relationship with B helped us become a better a church.  We are more patient, more loving, more accepting, more forgiving... more like Jesus.

I would like to thank all of those who accepted and helped B just the way he was... you were a great help to him and have encouraged and inspired us.  Thank you!