Notice how runners seem to put out an extra effort when they see the finish line? There is something about seeing the goal that gives extra energy for the project. But it isn't just runners. Just about every task earns an extra spurt of energy when you can see a completion point. The sense of … Continue reading The Finish Line
Unprofitable Servants
Luke 17 7 But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? 8 And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have … Continue reading Unprofitable Servants
A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Prophets
This fourth song from my 2006 concert is a compilation of references and images of old testament prophets. Michael Card uses those varying images to give us the variety of the prophets, while showing the singular source and core of their message. From a performance standpoint this song is the roughest of the entire concert. … Continue reading A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Prophets
A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Fools
Whether you consider this paradox or metaphor, it is one of the word plays -- and play on ideas -- that is one of the things I like best about the works of Michael Card. This third segment of my 2006 concert bridges the space between the Baptism (segment 2) and this song on God's … Continue reading A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Fools
Kearney UMC Confirmation
Kearney United Methodist Church had its confirmation service for this year's class of confirmands this morning. Sixteen confirmands, including my nephew Isaac Gillespie, were presented. The service was the conclusion of a two-year program where they met regularly to review and discuss their understanding of their faith. The service began with some congregational singing, which … Continue reading Kearney UMC Confirmation
Corporate Challenge Kickoff
The Kansas City Corporate Challenge kicked off Friday afternoon at the Truman Sports Complex with the kickoff walk. The whole event is a family fun walk and celebration. The participating companies sponsor tents for their employees, many with live music, food, etc., in the middle of the annex parking lot. The competition portion of the … Continue reading Corporate Challenge Kickoff
Journey to a High School Reunion — 8th Grade
As I recall from our TTBHS years, 8th grade was always the year that the staff found the various classes the hardest to handle. I don't remember the full theory behind that fact. What I do remember (whether correct or not), is that our class didn't end up with that wild streak that most other … Continue reading Journey to a High School Reunion — 8th Grade
Songs of Personal Trainers — But Not For Me
Been awhile since I did an update on my fitness workouts. As previously mentioned, I had a personal trainer at the community center last year, then had my hand injuries, and by the time I got back three months later, he had his own studio, and was no longer working at the community center. But … Continue reading Songs of Personal Trainers — But Not For Me
A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Water and Stones
As I mentioned on the previous blog in this series, the prelude flows straight into the first song. This one, by Michael Card, is called "The Baptism", and talks about the Baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan. I love the sense of flowing water you get from the accompaniment. Listen closely and feel … Continue reading A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Water and Stones
A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Prelude
It is now over 8 years since I did my one solo concert at a church in a Congregational Church in Wisconsin. I was fortunate enough to have a Kodak camera with decent audio, and filmed the whole thing. So every so often I pull out the video, or the audio clips I ripped from … Continue reading A Concert of Sacred Metaphors — Prelude