Nothing much happening. I am sick and church this morning was a stretch as far as my voice. I have youth tonight, but will be able to function more in an advisory role so that's good! Emily got to spend a wonderful weekend together - going to see our puppy (2 weeks old) being the highlite of the weekend. It was just the first time in a long time Em and I have had 2 days together. It was nice.

The past few days have been awesome! I've been catching up with lots of old college friends...

It's really cool because sometimes it feels like we are on a desert island stuck away from our friends and family. It's nice to hear from Seth, Jack, Ethan and the like! It reminded me how much I relied on my friends for so many years and it feels like I finally have climbed back up out of the pit I dropped down into! I'm sorry if I put anyone off - I am not the best at keeping in touch as you may know........

Thanks to those peeps out there who keep on trucking with me...

So last month we went on a retreat and did a ropes course. Here the Pastor's daughter (the one covered by the ladder) is giving me encouragement, "Don't die Ian."

You may not konw if but I am not he biggest fan of heights...for example:

Last year we went to a theme park (the youth group) and of course the first thing they want me to do is go on the DEATH COASTER or whatever you want to call it. So, I decided by the end of the day that unless I never want to live it down I better go on a roller coaster. I found one that didn't go upside down, so I figured I would give it a shot! We walk up into line and I see 4th graders riding this thing and I am pretty sure that they're yawning...good for them! So, I get on this coaster next to one of my Sr. Highers and they lock us in. By this time I am about ready to pass out for fear. As we pull out of the station I look at Justin and say, "I just want you to know, I'm going to have to hold your hand!" And I did....and I made it through the whole thing! And then some incompotent employee decides that because of the lack of a line we would (without asking me) go again! More hand-holding...more embarrasement!

I hate heights...but I did it! I...I...there are no excuses...doh!

Over the past dozen days I admit that I have been suckered in with 200 million other TV viewers....

I LOVE the World Cup! I admit it. I check websites hourly...read everything...watch almost every game. Soccer is such an awesome sport and it's the great equalizer. I was talking about it with my brother Paul and we noticed how Basketball, baseball, hockey, football - all of these popular US sports are almost impossible for the world to play. In soccer all you need is a ball (made of anything and everything...) and some rocks, sticks, shirts or shoes for goals...

The most powerful and the most populous nations on earth don't really match countries like Brazil or Argentina. It's cool. And if you haven't yet go check out this US website and watch some Studio 90, or check the webblog.

http://www.ussoccer.com/teams/mens/fwc/index.jsp.html

l8r

I was reading in Mark and found this verse (8:38):

"If a person is ashamed of me and my message...I will be ashamed of that person when I return."


The truth in that statement struck me. How often do I (yes, even a youth Pastor) fear letting people know I am a Christian. It is easy to let it fly in the Church - nice and comfy; but I find that when I am faced with the world I will let that little voice of the evil one sneek into my decision making process.

And for what! I need to be fearless - like McBride going up for that header (read my other post!).

Anyway...a little update on my journey...

l8r