Mark 16:15

WOW

2011-05-03T08:12:00.002-04:00

I have now been in the hospital for over two weeks, and God continues to show me how He has had is hand upon this whole situation.

My blood pressure seems to be somewhat under control now thanks to the medicine that they are able to give me. Isaac everytime they monitor him the word is he's perfect.

Due to the fact that the only way my blood pressure seems to be under control with the blood preasure medicine that they are giving me, which at this time is the max amount. Also the level of protien my body is putting out makes me severe preeclampsia. Therefore for the safety of both me and Isaac they will deliver me at 34 weeks. For me that is this Saturday. I am scheduled as of today to have a c-section on Monday, May 9. So the goal is for there to be no spikes in my blood pressure that would cause IV drugs between now and than.

At first they were telling me I would have a baby in the NICU...but upon talking to one of the head people in the NICU they think that Isaac might not have to go there at all. He has to meet certain critria so our prayer is that:
1. He weighs at least 4.8 pounds....which they believe he will with no problem because on Monday, April 18 when they did a sonagram he measured at 4 pounda
2. He needs to be able to breath totally on his own with no assitance....which also looks good due to the fact that I got the two steriod shots that help develop his lungs among other things and evidently because of the high blood preasure Isaac has been preparing to come out early...someone said it is God's way of preparing the babies for early birth
3. He needs to want to eat...so I said we will pray that Isaac has his father's appetaite than....at least for the first couple of months

I have been amazingly at peace with this whole thing....even with all of the things that I wanted to have done before Isaac was born....it all seems so unimportant

It is like God has taken over and given me a peace that can be explained no other way than a miricle from God...He has put everything in place up until now so why doubt and question it at this point.

I am looking forward to this time next week holding and feedin our son Isaac Amos Russell and introducing him to many family and friends over the next couple of weeks.

I am also looking forward to seeing a vision that I have had for years now come to be...which I did not see how it could in my mind...but in God's plan it is perfect timeing.

God's Time Not My Time

2011-04-21T12:21:00.002-04:00

Since Pearl was born we have adored her and loved her. We also have always had a desire to have another. I had always dreamed of at least two children and with in a year or two of each other. So that when I was done with diapers and other baby stuff I would be done. However month after month since 2004 the answer was no no no. I became very irregular with my cycle and went through about a year of testing and medicine to get regulated and to see if there was a medical reason as to why I wasn't conceiving. Nothing, no reason medically. Was told I could go to a fertility specialist and we said no. We did not feel that was what we needed to do. We have always said when it is God's time it will happen. During this time of testing a lady told Corben that not to give up hope he would have a son, while he was in Kentucky for school.
Over the next couple of years i just tucked that away. It was not always easy to accept what I was telling people including Pearl.."when it is God's time it will happen." Pearl so wanted to be a big sister and has been asking since she was three. I had many times when I was just plain sad and angry. You name it I know I thought it and more than likely said to at least Corben. We even had got rid of just about everything from when Pearl was a baby, cause I didn't want to keep moving it. And than I in late summer early fall this year had pretty much got tired of all the counting and stuff to figure out best time when to take a test and was really tired of seeing no. Not this month, maybe next. I had coincided to the fact that this was our family of 3 and that is what God was blessing me with and I was going to be content with it.
So we headed to Florida to celebrate Pearl's birthday in October. I carried with me the whole time a tampon because I just knew I would need it any day now. Well our week at Disney passed and I never needed that tampon. So when we got home I thought well I am about two weeks late I better take a test. So off to the store I went and the next morning to my utter amazement and joy it said I was pregnant. Corben and I couldn't contain our joy. We had waited so long. What a gift God had given us.
Everything was going great all tests good and progressing normal. Pearl was and is so excited to be a big sister. We than found out what I figured would be we were expecting a little boy.
Than while Corben was in England I found out my glucose test was high and would need to do the 3 hour test upon his return. So we did and that came back good. Praise God!!!
Than last week I noticed my ankles were swelling and not going down like they did with Pearl. So I just knew there was something going on here. Corben and Pearl even put me on their version of bed rest and left Mommy alone during the weekend but to no avail. Sunday night we took my blood pressure and it was up. So Monday morning it was off to see the Dr. My blood pressure was up and I was sent home on bed rest and lab work to be done. Well Monday night it spiked and so off the the hospital we went. They kept me over night to run test and monitor me.
And the verdict came in gestational hypertension severe of course...every number is 1 or 2 under being diagnosed preaclympsia. They say once this starts it doesn't get better just worse until the baby is born. They expect I will present myself to full blown preaclympsia next week...it is just a matter of time.
So here I am at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown West Virginia until little Isaac arrives. The ultimate goal is to get to 37 weeks...I am currently 31 weeks...34 weeks is also a possibility. It all depends on how I and Isaac deal with the high blood pressure.
So after all of this I am very thankful for it being God's time and not ours because:
*Corben is done with school and all his provisional stuff
*Pearl is in school all day and independent
*We live with in a 1/2 hour of a hospital equipped to handle high risk pregnancies and a NICU for Issac when he comes early
*We have a great friend who works in the NICU who can answer questions and has all her friends looking after me and Isaac

Thank you God for your time and not mine!!!!!!!!

Pearl you are a child of God

2011-02-07T15:48:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Pearl and I were not home for our normal Sunday morning routine. We were at my parents house for the weekend. It was communion Sunday at my parents church and like any other communion Sunday for as long as I can remember my Mom was getting the bread and juice ready to take to church. At their church they cut the bread into little squares to be served to the congregation. Pearl got so excited about communion, that Mamaw had extra work to do. Pearl needed her own set of communion she said. So what Pearl wants Pearl usually gets and yesterday morning was no different. So Mamaw cut up a couple slices of bread for Pearl. Than she asked for the special juice. So with a cup of juice in one hand and a pile of bread in the other hand she set out from the kitchen to....deliver communion to everybody in the house. There is no better way to share the Lord's supper than first thing in the morning brought to you by a child of God.

It's Been Forever and a Day!

2010-08-17T22:35:00.002-04:00

I can not believe we have not posted for over a year!@! what a messed up world it is when i can't even take a few seconds to drop a thoughtful heartfelt post here and there.

I am reminded of the passage, Acts 28:1-6, of Paul traveling to the destination of Rome when he found himself gathering wood, bitten by a viper, and it hanging from his hand. It is interesting that the islanders see this and condemn Paul for they believe bad things happen to bad people and when Paul is not affected that he is a God, but how often do we fall in this mindset as Clergy or as Leader and even everyday church attenders? Why do we make things a prosperity gospel or drawn out to a logical conclusion that God is the author of evil?

What if in God's infinite wisdom we are created in His image... I think this is even Scriptural.... NIV Genesis 1:26 Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."

Yes when the above has written man I believe they mean people... men and women.

So if we are created in His image then maybe we have free will and with that the responsibility of our, as a plural all people or humanities, actions.

I am glad we have God that can be described, from Exodus 34:6-7 as "The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation."

But even more when I think about good and bad I am uplifted by Ephesians 1:4b-12
"In love 5 he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will-- 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8 that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9 And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment-- to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. 11 In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12 in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. "

Just a few thoughts from the Pastoral Penut Gallory
Corben

Posting, Posting, Posting!!!

2009-07-19T16:40:00.003-04:00

I am not sure what happened, why, or how, but I have recognized a few signs on the way! I noticed I stopped posting as much on the Blog and started posting more on Facebook. Then I noticed my posts started getting smaller and smaller. I am not sure the size was due to my lack of writing larger material or that I had fewer responses when I wrote larger amounts of posts. Either way... it seems there has been a clear shift, at least for me, from blogging to Facebooking in an almost twittering way. Also the ease of posting on Facebook through my cell phone definitely has its advantages. I can upload pictures of events at the churches, I can upload family stuff, friend stuff, communicate via Facebook-email and more. I think there is another technology shift even though this has been available before it is now easier, cheaper, and more widely accepted, this facebooking and such through the phone.

I admit it is great that I can get emails on the phone, respond to important things quickly, and keep people updated, but I ask at what price?

What are we loosing in all this? and moreover if we are created to be relational beings as I believe God created us to be, then how is this foundational aspect of humanity being affected?

Just food for thought

Few moments have topped today… in my whole life…

2009-05-25T23:31:00.002-04:00

Few moments have topped today… in my whole life…

I got to play outside with my daughter in our blow up slide-fort-pool!!!

After an amazing day of spending time with immediate and some not-so immediate family, i.e. Gramma & Grandpap Aegan, Mamaw, PapPap, Aunt Dottie and John as well as Becky, Cooper, Calvin, and Bailey… Pearl and I washed the van and then went swimming in the pool.

As Pearl and I played I started singing to her, in the tune of nick nack paddie wack give the dog a bone, a made up song: I splash you, you splash me, we all splash as a family, with a Pearly splashing me and dear old dad getting ready to get a bath!

After that we went inside… warmed up from the cold well water… and relaxed together as a family watching some DVR recordings of our favorite show!

Now this is a day to remember… the smile on Brenda’s face as we all sat down and ate a wonderful lunch… as Pearl and I played in the pool… as Pearl slept and even sat up sleeping while on the couch as Brenda and I watched The Unit… and of course seeing Grandpap’s face light up as it always does every time he talks about Justin.

Today was not only a good day, a grace filled day, a blessed day, but a moment or better yet a snapshot that I will never forget and will always be dear to my heart!

I am not sure why but this passage seems to fit with today:

NIV Hebrews 2:11 Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.

A book of Prayers!!!

2009-05-14T12:50:00.003-04:00

I recently re-found a book that was given to me more then a few years ago: “Prayers and Blessings and Hymns” or known as “Grace, Hymns, and Blessings” compiled and arranged by Rabbi CH. M. Brecher, New York: KTAV Publishing, 1960.

On page 5 there is a morning prayer for children:

“Blessed are You, O Lord our God, King of all the world (of the universe), Who has made our bodies wisely, with many passageways for our health. It is known to You, seated on Your throne of glory, that if any of these passages be wrongly closed or opened, we could no longer live or stand up before You. Blessed are You, O Lord, Who heals all bodies and performs so many miracles.

O God, the soul You gave me is clean. You made and created it; You breathed life into me, and keep me alive. I know that some day You will take life from me, but only to continue it in another world. So long as my soul lives, I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, god of all who came before me, Ruler of all things formed about me, and Master of all souls. Blessed are You, O Lord Who can return life even to the dead.

The following is to be said while the fringes are held:

I am ready to obey the commandment concerning the fringes (tzitzis) to place on our garments; for the Torah orders our people-“And they shall make fringes.”

Blessed are You, O Lord our God, King of all the world (of the universe), Who has made us holy through Your commandments, and has commanded us to make fringes.

May it be Your wish, O Lord my God, and god of all who came before me, that the way in which I have obeyed the commandment concerning the fringes be considered perfectly performed, and that I also be considered to have fulfilled all the 613 commandments based upon this one. Amen!”

Now this, to me, seemed like a rather long poem, but I started asking myself:

Do I help Pearl thank and recognize God’s amazing grace from all of creation through each person individually?

Do I help Pearl acknowledge the majesty and rightful place of God as king of the universe?

Do I help Pearl thank God for the health we have?

Do I help Pearl thank God for miracles?

So many questions I could ask, but to finish up with two more?

Do I help Pearl pray for help to continually be obedient to better fulfill “Loving God with all… (her) heart, soul, strength, and mind” as well as loving… (her) neighbor as… (herself)” as seen in Matthew 22:37-39.

I mean if we all work every day at teaching, leading, and loving our children to live out a prayer like this one… what would the world be like?

Skunks

2009-05-03T10:13:00.004-04:00

Some of you may that back in August 2007 Pearl and I accompanied Corben to Kentucky, while he took one of his many on campus classes at Asbury. Well I was driving and about 10 minutes from campus I hit a skunk. I thought well maybe Pearl won't notice. After all it didn't make a loud sound, but than the smell oh the smell. Well to say the least she noticed.

So almost every week since than during prayer and praise time at church Pearl raises her hand and asks for prayer that mommy doesn't hit a skunk again. It has become pretty comical to say the least.

Well on Friday night Pearl's prayer was answered. I was on my way home from DuBois. It was dark and rainy. I was coming up a dark country road and out of the corner of my eye on the left side of the road I saw two little beady eyes coming out of the woods. So I let up on the gas, and than running in front of the car was oh no a skunk. I still remember the smell that hot August night. So I applied the brakes and the skunk scurried into the woods on the other side of the road.

Pearl's prayer of many many months was answered. Mommy did not hit a skunk again. Praise God.

Groundhogs

2009-04-09T19:20:00.002-04:00

In Punxy there are 32 statues of groundhogs all around town. Since the very first time Pearl was in town almost a year ago for our "tak-in" she has been infactuated with them. We decided that through the year we would take her to each one and get her picture with them. We did some in the fall, but wanted to wait until it got nice to do the rest. Today we had 2 hours in between pre-school and an Easter egg hunt in town so we spent that time going to more groundhogs. We have three groundhogs left to get to. Here are a few pictures from today.

March Winds

2009-03-31T19:47:00.003-04:00

Everyone always says March winds bring April Showers. Well I am not sure how many showers will come our way in April but one thing I do know is that the March winds of 2009 brought sickness to the Russell house. It started with Corben having some type of virus that was going around. Than it started with Pearl she got the same virus that Corben had and pink eye all at the same time. Than Pearl and Corben were both seen in the ER and diagnosed with ear infections, so antibiotics for the both of them. Thought everyone was getting better and Pearl got the flu. Than Pearl had an early morning visit to the ER due to severe pain and was diagnosed with an urinary track infection. All the while she has been going to see an allergist for allergy testing. Yesterday we got the all clear Pearl has no infection left in her body and as Pearl puts is my pee is clean no more medicine. The March winds also brought us a time of vacation. We enjoyed the first part of it just relaxing @ home and than went to spend sometime with my parents and sister. We enjoyed worshipping with our Concord church family and seeing many friends while there. Pearl has been going to King Kids Club @ a local church and was a little sad that it is done as of the end of March. She enjoyed the Monday evening time with other children from the community, and her Mom and Dad enjoyed the time alone while she was learning the Word of God and growing closer to Him. I think that our March came in like a lion with sickness, but it is going out like a lamb with just a few lingering coughs for the Pearl and myself, nothing her and I can't deal with. And looking ahead to April as far as weather goes it looks like the March winds are bringing in some much needed April showers our way tomorrow. And as far as us we are going to be busy busy busy. We will be celebrating Easter, going to see the dentist for 6 month checkups for the whole family, Easter egg hunts, planting a tree for earth day, and the first of many wedding showers to come this year as of now i know of 4 between June and September.

Pearl's Christmas Pictures

2009-02-21T19:24:00.001-05:00

Wow it has been a long time

2009-02-21T18:58:00.002-05:00

I got an e-mail asking how I was doing, because I hadn't posted anything since December. So I said to myself that is bad I need to do an update. So here goes....
We had a great Christmas, we got together with both sides of the family and enjoyed catching up with everyone who we do not get to see on a regular basis. The end of December beginning of January found us on vacation. We vacationed to my parents house. Which Pearl absolutely loved and so did they. While there Corben meet with the Board of Ordained Ministry and was granted provisional status as of July 1, 2009. Pearl and I are so proud of him and can not think of a better person to be leading us in the ministry that God has called our family to. In January soon after returning from a week with my parenets our phone rang late one night when I answered the phone it was my sister telling us that their house was on fire. She said everyone was outside and that they were waiting for the fire department. She said that my dad tried to put it out but was not successful. They still have not determined a cause. My parents and sister are living at the holiday inn for now and have been told to expect to be there for 8-10 months. So January found us making a few trips down to help with some clean up. January also found us watching lots of snow fall on us here in Timblin. At the deepest the snow was higher than the swings on Pearl's swing set in our back yard. February came with us getting to watch an awsome super bowl. I think I screamed enough for a year during the game, but never lost faith that my steelers would win. Corben and Pearl believe it or not slept through my screaming. We ventured into Punxy for groundhog day. What an experience. We did not go the the knob, but I think we will have to do tha when Pearl is a little older. Pearl got to see Phill up close and in person when he stopped in for a visit at the Bishop's Day on the district that night. They said that it was Phil's last stop of the day. Pearl has had many play dates in February with Becky and Dave's kids. I think she would move in there or have them move in here if she could. We took Pearl to Clarion for Valentine's Day to see the movie Hotel for Dogs. An excelent movie with a great message is a must have when it comes out on DVD. This movie will preach. If I was still in youth ministry I would take the youth group to see it. When we left to come home Pearl started crying and saying she wanted to stay in the city. I said to Corben she has defintly turned into a country girl if she thinks Clarion is the city. I had said to my Grandfather that I didn't think we would see grass until at least March, but I was wrong all the snow melted the second week of February, but it is back this week and again on Friday morning there was no grass to be seen. We like it though and after all it is still only February. I will post some pictures latter. If you are on facebook look us up we are there also.

Jesus

2008-12-25T20:29:00.003-05:00

Last week one day while we were out and about Pearl saw a manger scene in a yard. It was one of the ones where each figure is a different piece. She says to me "Mom we don't have a Jesus." I said to her yes you are right we don't have one like that. For the past two years while living in Bridgewater they had one and she would ask to go talk to Jesus and would walk into the stable and talk to Baby Jesus. The first time she did this I cried like a baby.

On Monday morning we were visiting my parents and Pearl said to her Dad as they walked out the door Daddy we need that. I knew @ once that it was my parents baby Jesus. A few minutes latter she was pleading with my Mom to let her have Baby Jesus. She said don't worry Mamaw I'll bring it back after Christmas cause she doesn't have one and she needs Baby Jesus.
My prayer is that we will hunger for Jesus as much in 2009 as Pearl does in 08, and that she will never lose the passion she has for Jesus as she grows.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T20:21:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas, to one and all. We started this morning by reading from the Bible about the birth of Jesus. Than it was down stairs to see what Santa had brought. Pearl after opening a few gifts said she was done and to give the rest of her presents to other boy and girls. Now that is a lesson for all of us. Than it was breakfast with my parents when they arrived. Pearl had a great time visiting with them. She even got her mamaw to go outside and play chase with her. We exchanged gifts with my parents and than ate lunch together. After that we just hung out for a while until it was time to say good-bye. We spent rest of the evening enjoying family time playing with our new WII. Pearl loves the controler. We ended the evening with a birthday cake for Jesus, candles and all. Happy Birthday Jesus!!!!

GrAdUaTiOn!@!

2008-12-19T09:29:00.006-05:00

Hello, well the time has come, the end is near, I have finished my last semester of seminary at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore Kentucky and I am waiting for all my grades to come in. I am glad it is done and I really appreciated all I learned and all that God used to teach me, mold me, and make me grow. I am especially thankful for family and even more thankful for Brenda and her support, help, and love as we finish seminary. I told her even though the diploma has my name on it... it was a joint effort.

I just kept thinking, "Where is my family and I hope I don't trip!"

Well, graduation is over and now it is another experience behind me :-)

And of course Pearl still watches my every move...

Thank you Brenda, thank you Pearl, thank you all who helped me in all the many ways graduate from seminary.

Pearl's first written story

2008-11-19T13:50:00.003-05:00

Pearl never ceases to amaze me. She just turned four and started walking up to me and telling me stories. Well she did it again and said dad, "I have a story... listen" and I was in the middle of writting my sermon for November 30th, the first Sunday of Advent this year and I said sure, so I stopped and opened a word document and typed down what she said. It was interesting to say the least and of course I am sure she is a genious for coming up with this at age four and only turning four less then two months ago.

Pearl's

First story written down:

There was a horse in the field in the storm and a big monster came. It was a big monster and it hit the horse and pearl and knocked them down. Then Justin came and he got hit. Pearl was Hanna Montana and came and saved Justin.
Then the big monster went potty and Justin fell on it.

I would add "The End!!!"

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY

2008-11-11T20:33:00.002-05:00

Thank you to all the men and women who have served and are serving our country in the armed forces. I am very thankful for the sacrifices you have made and continue to make for our country. I am thankful for the freedom that my family and I have because of what you have given. Thanks for your service

Church fire

2008-10-16T10:41:00.003-04:00

This is the church that I grew up in. I have many memories there as a child and will always have them. I talked to my Dad yesterday morning and he said that there is not much left. Please pray for the church members as the move on from here and rebuild. It is said that God will bring beauty out of ashes. The church was a 107 years old. The memories will live on and so will the church it will just look a little different in the next 107 years.

Pearl's 4 year old pictures!@!

2008-10-01T10:52:00.002-04:00

Pearl is turning four in October and we took her for her four year old Pictures.

I could not believe she was posing with such expressions. She never stops amazing me.

Pearl's fourth day of Preschool

2008-09-12T11:56:00.003-04:00

Pearl was just as excited today for preschool.

I am glad she really is enjoying school and i hoep she keeps it.

Stepping Up

2008-09-12T11:17:00.003-04:00

Today, even though I could not make it to the session due to the fact I am away on a Clergy Spouse Retreat, I am starting another Beth Moore Bible study. This one is entitled Stepping Up. I did this once before with a group of wonderful ladies from Concord, of which some I have known since I was in high school. This time however I am doing it with a group of ladies as a part of a community Bible study in Punxy. I am looking forward to meeting new people and building relationships with the ladies of the area. As part of today's lesson I wrote a psalm based on Psalm 120. Enjoy:

I yell for God and He says what.
Lord deliver me from family strife.
What will He do to you strife.
A servant's heart with love!
Oh that I satay that I live in hurt.
I have been silent and absent too long.
I want to build a bridge but they won't come on.

I am excited apathy is not as widespread as I thought

2008-09-11T09:44:00.002-04:00

In the aftermath of 9-11 I saw people looking to God for help and I saw many amazing things. I know God is not the author of evil, but that He can use all for His will and purpose and I was blown away at the sacrifices people made during 9-11 from firemen, police, people giving their own, and the loved ones left make sense of it all. Today after dropping my daughter off at preschool I was driving home, back to Timblin, and I passed an elimentary school where I saw teachers gathering all the students, those little elimentary school kids, and I was glad at first and started getting excited thinking about how little 9-11 is talked about, remembered, or the grace of God in the midst of it celebrated and honored. I looked back at those people around the flagpole and got excited because apathy is not as widespread as I thought it was and I thought about a passage in scripture where Jesus talks about letting the little ones come to him for such as these belong the kingdom of heaven. For us to honestly and purely come before God, admitting we are weak and need help, looking to God to answer our prayers, and honor as well as celebrate God's hand in the midst of hurt, reminds me we can no longer live the days of doing nothing, of having faith, that only affects our lives when we walk through the church doors and into the sanctuary, but must permiate every aspect of our lives down to whatever is inside the protons, neutrons, and electrons, inside every cell of our bodies.

I hope you look around this September 11th and see whatever God wants you to see and share it with someone else.

Pearl's third Day of Preschool!!!

2008-09-11T09:26:00.002-04:00

Pearl gets more and more excited every day to go to preschool!!!

She was so excited she even had me take a picture of her against a ruler painted on the wall.

Pearl's second day of Preschool!!!

2008-09-10T21:39:00.003-04:00

I think Pearl was even more excited for the second day and have even more fun

There were less pictures on the second day because dad was bad and let the batteries die in the camera, but the report from the teacher was that she was again cheerful, playful, even though she refused to open her milk carton by herself and that she played with the computer, blocks, and went for a walk.

Pearl's first day of Preschool!@!

2008-09-10T21:37:00.002-04:00

Pearl sure did have a great first day of Preschool, just check out the slideshow!!!

Pearl does not seem to miss a beat, jumping into a new school for Preschool this year, after moving from Bridgewater to Timblin and she seems to be having a great time!, I hope the second day is just as good if not better.

Wind

2008-09-01T20:17:00.006-04:00

NIV Ecclesiastes 1:6 The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course.

I often ponder what it meant, formally, metaphorically, figuratively...
Wind here and there, wind everywhere, north, south, changing direction, and ever returning on its course.

I am not sure I know any more, have come any further, but maybe that is the point as long as we are doing what God created us to do, following Him, honoring him, obeying Him, loving Him, using the gifts He gives us, and every time I look at this picture I remember it is much less about the big things then it is about the every day little things in life that we need to be so especially faithful in.

As the wind blows over you and through your hair may you and I see where God's wind is taking us and leap forward.

Summer is coming to a close

2008-08-29T10:14:00.002-04:00

A favorite picture form our trip to Canada summer of 2006

We returned last night from what I consider our last adventure of the summer. Corben had a training @ the conference center in Cranberry on Tuesday and a meeting on Thursday in Bethal Park. So we all headed to Beaver County. We stayed with my Mom and Dad while there. On Tuesday after Corben was done with is training my sister, Pearl and I met him at Quacker Steak and Lube for lunch. Than upon our return to my parent's house Pearl and Corben went swimming which I figured would be the last time for the summer. Latter that evening we went to John's house and Pearl went four wheeling and we stacked fire wood. Pearl also helped Aunt Dottie make cupcakes. On Wednesday I went to the dentist, and got a pedicure. Aunt Dottie and Pearl made cookies, and Pearl and her Dad went swimming again. The remains of Tropical Storm Fay moved in so our trip to the Big Knob Fair was wet and short, but the gyros, french frys, and the famous Concord UMC funnel cakes still tasted great. Pearl's highlight was of course seeing the animals. Fay also resulted in my time with my sister picking black berries to be a wet experience, but we still had fun and got enough berries to make a cobbler. So on Thursday while Corben was at his meeting all day we went to my Grandma Aegan's and she taught us how to make a black berry cobbler. Pearl had a blast helping roll dough, but she never did try the end product. She says black berries are disgusting. After dinner Pearl and her Pap Pap went to the garden to pick green beans and tomatoes and Pearl picked the littlest watermellon I have ever seen but she is so proud of it. Pearl than decided to dig for treasue, so bath time happened before we left. We than headed for home listening to the football game and than finished watching the game at home. Pre-season is over. Come on regular season. Here we go Steelers. Fall is here. Today I will freeze our greenbeans so we can have fresh greenbeans this winter.

Almost Home

2008-08-24T19:08:00.002-04:00

Our last stop of our two week journy was to Corben's parent's house for our nieces birthday. Pearl enjoyed playing with her cousin Jared. Enjoy a few pics from the party.

Family Vacation and School Continued

2008-08-24T18:54:00.003-04:00

We spent a day driving in the smokie mountains, stopped by the aquarium again it was too hot for anything else. Than it was off to Kentucky for school. We spent one evening at the local YMCA Pool. On our way home we stopped by and visited family. Pearl picked pumpkins with Pap Pap Richard, and went 4 wheeling with Aunt Dottie and John.

Family Vacation and School

2008-08-24T15:32:00.002-04:00

In August Corben had to return to Kentucky for a one week class so Pearl and I joined him. However before school we spent a week on vacation. We started off at our the Price family reunion, then went to visit Corben's parents, than headed to Tennessee again. We love this place.

Family Vacation

2008-08-24T15:08:00.002-04:00

We spent just about a week this year the end of May begining of June in Pegion Forge Tennesse with my parents, sister, and her boyfriend. This was his first family vacation. The hotel ended up being under construction so we didn't get the rooms we had planned, but it all worked out in the end and we had a great time. We spent one day at Dollywood, one day at Spash Country, one day at the Aguarium, and lots of time shopping and seeing the sights. We can not wait for family vacation next year Pearl's says go to the beach. We will see. Enjoy a few of the thousands of pictures we took.

Pearl's First Beach Trip

2008-08-24T14:57:00.002-04:00

Pearl had been asking to see the ocean. So in May when Corben's cousin Jeremy got married in Richmond Virginia we took a week's vacation and went on to Virgina Beach for some fun before all of our excitment over the next month and a half. We had received the call about Corben's move a few days before we left for the wedding. Here are few pictures from the trip. Pearl loved it and can not wait to return to the ocean and beach. We can not either.

Two Years Latter and the Lost is Found

2008-07-23T18:42:00.002-04:00

Two years ago we went on vacation to Canada, and all three of us had our passports. Upon our return home Corben left for a month of school in Kentucky and Pearl and I moved us into our new home in Bridgewater PA. Shortly after our move I tried to locate our passports for some reason and could only find Corben's and Pearl's. I had kept the three of them together and could not figure out where mine was. We tore the house apart looked under stuff in stuff, there was not a place we did not look. I figured that it must have been thrown away during the move. I said that I thought it was somewhere in the house, however we just could not find it. So I decided that when we had the money I would get a new one. Well there were a few times over the past two years I could have gotten a new one, but things came up and we needed the money for other things. When we packed everything up to move I had in the back of my mind that we would find my passport, but we didn't so I figured it must not be in the house. However today we were looking for the remote to the DVD player (which ended up laying out in the open on the lamp) Corben was looking in the couch and out he pulled was none other than my passport. Now instead of paying for a new one all I will need to do is renew it in 2009. This reminds me of two things, 1. Like I never gave up on looking for my passport, God will never give up on searching for us when we are lost.
2. Like I celebrated and called my Mom to share the news upon finding the passport, God will rejoice and celebrate upon our finding our way home again.

I am alive

2008-07-17T19:01:00.002-04:00

I got an e-mail the other day asking if I gave up blogging. Well I haven't, but I have been very busy. Most of June was spent packing and unpacking as we moved form Bridgewater to Timblin. Almost everything is unpacked and in it's place. We love our new home. Pearl really loves the fact that we have a big yard and that she sees horse and buggies go past our house many times a day. We do miss not being as close to my family, but are anticipating the things God has in store for us. Corben spent two weeks in Kentucky in June and one week in Kentucky in July. We will all spend a week there in August and Pearl and I are looking forward to the trip. We are going to take Pearl to Dollywood on our way down to Kentucky for a few days so I am not sure which part of the trip she is more excited about Kentucky or Tennessee. If you are up this way stop in for a visit.

Father's Day

2008-06-19T22:36:00.004-04:00

Fathers Day... a time to honor parents, much like Mothers day, but with a major difference, besides the different roles Mothers and Fathers play, is that Fathers day is a time to be thankful for the teaching, raising, wisdom, insight, and love while Mothers day is ususally a time to remember, celebrate, and honor the caring, relationship, that mothers are so often associated with.

It is funny to recieve goofy ties, golf accessories, and other items that usually tend to be practical like tools when even though those things make me as a Father laugh, it is the smile on my daughters face and the warmth in my wife's eyes that positively shake me to the very foundation of my core and stir me to praise God for the gift of Fatherhood.

I lift up in prayer all those that are unable or just are not fathers and request your love and intercession for any pain that these wonderful people experience.

I am a father of a three year old daughter, Pearl, her and my wife mean more to me then words can express, but as long as I don't digress:

I am not sure I can even remember what I thought John 3:16 meant before I became a Father. If anyone reads this and does not know John 3:16 look it up. The Gideon's place bibles in Hospitals, hotals, and many other places and I hope you can find a place to read it, but worse case you can look online at sites like http://www.biblegateway.com/

I have a feeling that Mothers may even understand the sacrifice, love, grace, compassion, and caring that involves John 3:16 even better, but no matter what I am thankful...

Thank you God for making me a Father.

Father

2008-06-19T22:36:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday Dad

2008-06-19T22:12:00.001-04:00

Tuesday was my Dad's Birthday. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner cooked by my mom with the family, and pie and icecream. Pearl also enjoyed haveing a swim in Pap Pap's pool. I value my dad's opinion and all that he has taught me through the years. I also value all of the support and advise he gives to us while we contiune on this journy of being a family in full time ministry. I am looking forward to many more years of his wise advice and love.

Speed Racer

2008-05-10T16:04:00.002-04:00

We took Pearl to see Speed Racer with her cousin Jared and her PapPap Russell. She started to have a hard time paying attention after awhile and even asked to leave. I thought, 'this is not like Pearl' because she usually does so well at the movies. Then I realized she didn't start acting up until an hour and fourty minutes had passed into the movie. It was a good time and Pearl did great for the movie being over two hours and twenty minutes.

Here is a clip from the first seven minutes of the movie compliments of Yahoo and Speed Racer:

From: http://movies.yahoo.com/feature/speedracer.html?showVideo=1

Praising God

2008-05-10T16:00:00.002-04:00

It is so amazing to see Pearl, my daughter, praise God.

We were driving down the road, just me and her, and I look back to make sure she is doing good and I see her lifting her hands and pointing her fingers to the heavens as our radio played a praise and worship song. It was uplifting for me to see her excited for her Jesus and then while pointing up she started singing the words, at least I think she was singing the words. No matter what it was it was music to my ears.

Yet again I am reminded we have much to learn from children... possibly more then we teach them, at least spiritually.

Getting back to the heart of worship

2008-05-01T09:55:00.008-04:00

{ Picture from http://images.parable.com/ProdImage/87/7474018187.jpg }

I remember hearing about the story that surrounds the song "Heart Of Worship' by Matt Redman and thinking about what it means to have an innocent, pure, simple, and humble heart that seeks after Jesus, that continually connects and remains in Love with Jesus, Our Lord and Savior.

Two days ago I was amazed again as God reminded me of this same thing. I was getting my daughter ready to leave the house and you have to remember she is only 3 years old. We were all ready except she did not want to come down stairs, put on her shoes, and actually leave. So I run upstairs get the phone I left up there, but more importantly to remind her it is time to go and as I approach her at the top of the stairs I hear in a sweet, soft, and beautiful voice, "I am sorry, My Jesus". Pearl reminded me of how my relationship with Jesus needs to be.

What did my three year old do, say, or think that she wanted to tell her Jesus she was sorry I may never know, but what I do know is that I want to encourage her to continue this and maybe I need to set aside the busyness of life and like the song get back to the heart of worship. Worship is not just at the Sunday service or on Saturdays or Sundays alone, but every single day and should be during everything we do no matter what.

We could all be so blessed as to say today, "I am sorry, My Jesus" and get back to the heart of worship.

Sometimes it is easy to talk or preach about the greatest commandment, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." from Matthew 22:37 the NIV which references Deuteronomy 6:5. I mention this because it is not always easy to point the way for people to walk more deeply with Jesus, to love Him more deeply, to fill our minds completely, or have all of being focused on Jesus, but maybe, just maybe it is the things we consider little like coming before Jesus and being sorry, your Jesus, my Jesus, the Jesus that died so that all who believe may have everlasting life as John 3:16 proclaims moves us along the journey of better loving the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

{ Picture from http://www.nhim.org/Lessons/Lesson%20Files/ChildrenPraying.jpg }

Is your glass half-full or half-empty?

2008-03-30T22:31:00.004-04:00

When life hands you lemons do you make lemonade?

Then of course there are varying degrees:
Bitter
Semi-sweet
Extra-sweet
And just plain amazing with the perfect blend

Maybe life has seemingly left you bitter?
If so there is someone who can help. His name is Jesus
And His birthday is celebrated every year at Christmas
And His death and ressurection is celebrated every year at Easter.

This last Sunday I preached on 1st Peter 1:1-9 and I invite
All who read this Blog to take 5 minutes and read the passage
Especially if you have read it before.

Now the questions are:
Do you rejoice like the passage describes?
Do you experience great joy even while suffering under trials?
Do you see the brighter side while being refined through fire so
that your faith strengthens?

Please take a few minutes to look up Isaiah 48:10.

The good news, the great news is that not only are we giving glory,
Honor, and praise to God as He so rightly deserves when we suffer,
But we are pointing the way to Christ as the 1st Peter passage reminds us.

I leave you with this question:

When you look in the

and see your reflection who does it point to?

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-03-29T12:53:00.002-04:00

In the picture Richard Aegan, Quina Price, Bobby Aegan, and Pearl Russell

Today is my Mom's birthday. She has taught me many lessons throughout the years and I look forward to having dinner with her tonight and learning many more things from her for many more years.

Fun at High School Musical on Ice

2008-03-21T22:08:00.002-04:00

I got the opportunity to be able to go to High School Musical on Ice which is a combination of High School Musical one and two. I was able to go with Brenda and Pearl. I never knew it, but opening night can offer some more reasonable priced tickets. It was a wonderful time especially as I watched Pearl with her eyes glued to the Ice Rink as the musical ensued. I looked over and saw Brenda watching and not only watching the musical, but also watching Pearl to make sure she did not hit or spill anything on the person sitting in front of Pearl and I was struck by the wonders of family. Sometimes family life is difficult, it wasn't meant to be easy, but it is worth it and when I have moments like these the difficulties melt away faster then snow on a warm sunny day. The picture below is my momento of another wonderful moment that God used to make up for those stressful, even though not always frequent, days of hair pulling, biting, hitting, and overall fits that all three year olds go through.

What is today

2008-03-20T13:59:00.003-04:00

Some people call today Holy Thursday, some say Maundy Thursday, some say Pass over, some say last supper, some say agape meal, some say first day of spring, and to some it is just Thursday, March 20. Well for us here in the Russell household it has been a day of preparation. We have been preparing for tonight's service at the church. Pearl was supposed to be in pre-school today but it was canceled so she to has been helping. At first I thought oh no, but to be honest with you it has been a blessing in disguise. Pearl has been a great little helper and I can not wait to experience tonight's service with her. So as our day of preparations is starting to wind down it will turn into a night of remembrance and learning. We will learn what some of the things were that took place so many years ago the night Jesus was betrayed, and remember in closing with communion what Jesus did for us on the cross tomorrow.
A short story about our preparations
We actually started our preparations last night by setting up the tables and chairs in the shape of a cross. Pearl was there and helped us, but we never really explained to her why we were moving the tables and we never mentioned to her the fact that they were in the shape of a cross. So today she has been for the most part busy playing while I've been getting the food ready. So when my mom stopped by for a surprise visit while we were just getting ready for lunch, and was happily surprised that Pearl meet her at the door. Grandma thought she was in school. I was not expecting Pearl to say much about tonight. However during the midst of eating lunch and talking about tonight and what I had done and still had to do my Mom asked if there was anything she could do to help. I said she could help me fill cups with grape juice if she wanted to over at the church. So that is when it happened Pearl perked up at asked with much excitment if Grandma wanted to go and see the cross at the church. So we did, we went to the church and Pearl very proudly showed the cross to her Grandma.

Picture Update

2008-03-18T22:17:00.009-04:00

Visit to a game farm in West Virginia

Visit to a game farm in West Virginia

High School Musical on ice

Mommy's little helper

Second year in a row we spent V-Day in the snow

Wow what a cute little girl

Santa came and Pearl's goods are awaiting her in the morning

Pearl and Aunt Dottie waiting to go to Christmas Eve service at Bridgewater UMC

Pearl went to visit the pymatumming the place where ducks walk on the back of fish with her Grandma, Grandpap, Aunt Dottie and of course us this fall

Pearl ready to go Trick-or-treating, but missing her Justin

Justin Update

2008-03-18T22:04:00.003-04:00

Well I wanted to update everyone and thank you for praying for my cousin Justin as he went through all of his training for the US Navy. He graduated from "boot camp" the Friday before Labour Day. Than he went to Texas for A-School for further training. While in Texas he met a girl who stole his heart. Her name is Heather and she is awesome. While he was home on leave Corben had the pleasure of performing their wedding. Justin than reported to Washington state where he will be stationed for the next two years. He than spent until the begining of March in classes training him even further for his job in the US Navy as a Master at Arms. He did however hurt his knee and is on light duty. So for the next two weeks his job is driving people around the base. He works 6 hours than has off 6 hours and so it goes for the next two weeks. Pearl can find Washington state on a map and tells us "Washington, Justin lives there". She also enjoys talking to both Justin and Heather via X-Box Live.

The moments we share...

2008-03-04T10:38:00.001-05:00

The moments we share…

The moments we share can be positive or negative.
The moments we share can be happy or sad.
The moments we share can help us grow or tear us down,
But most importantly the moments share are together.

Through thick and thin, in High and low tide, rain or shine I am thankful we have each other.

There is a devotional book Brenda and I reflect on called Moments with You by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. Everyday I appreciate what I learn, ways to come closer to God, and opportunities to receive advice as we end the parenting day and Pearl lays in her bed falling asleep.

What I never expect, but find invaluable is the precious moments of listening, speaking, sharing, and being together as we read, discuss, reflect, and pray for each other, our family, and our relationship with Christ.

A passage for reflection:

NIV (New International Version) Colossians 13:12-15
"12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

Dr. Phil's personality test

2008-03-04T09:32:00.003-05:00

I scored 49 on Dr. Phil's personality test
Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who will always cheer them up and help them out.

http://psychcentral.com/personquiz.htm

Happy Valentine's Day!@!

2008-02-14T19:59:00.003-05:00

Picture extracted on Thursday, February 14th, 2008 at 8:00P.M. from:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jobradford/110062695/

Happy Valentine's Day

To the wonderful blessing that God has graced me with:

The light of my life,

who is with me through strife.

I want you to know

That my expressions can’t show

How I love you so.

But even though words can’t convey

I must say without delay,

I love you

and

thank you

for being such a great blessing God has graced me with.

Today's Prayer based on Joel 2:1-17

2008-02-06T10:42:00.000-05:00

Photo extracted from: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cdm/37007291/
on February 6th, 2008 at 10:50A.M.

Dear Lord, today is a special day in that it is a day to remember we are of dust and to dust we will return, to remain faithful in you. For us to have pure hearts and give them to you, to Love you with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind as the greatest commandment exclaimed in the New Testament in Matthew chapter 22. We thank you that you give us specific ways for us to do this and to return to you, to be focused on you through fasting, weeping and mourning.

We can not thank you enough Jesus for the wonderful sacrifice you made, dying on the cross, so that all who believe may have everlasting life, that your blood fulfilled the New Covenant for the forgiveness of sins.

As we remember today that we are made from ground and to ground we return please help us to rejoice in you, dwell in you, and see in this passage what you want us to see, to have hearts after you, in your precious name, Jesus, we pray Amen!

Psalm 121

2008-01-31T15:03:00.000-05:00

I lift up my eyes to the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip- he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you- the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm- he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121

I am participateing in a Beth Moore Bible study called Stepping Up. Pearl and I accompanied Corben to Kentucky last week for his second of three classes that he was taking this month at Asbury. So I was unable to attend the first week. Therefore this week I am trying to play catch up. So yesterday during the day I was working on days three and four of week one which focused on Psalm 121. What a reminder for me at this time. Where does my help come from? My help comes from God. I now know that I needed that reminder more than I knew. Sometimes we try to make it look to others like we have it all together and if we do that too much we than start to believe that we do have it all together and think we can handle it all on our own and not let others in, including God.

God please forgive me for not accepting the help that you give me and for trying to handle things on my own.

Then last night as we were putting Pearl to bed I opened up our bedtime book to read her the next Bible story and it was...yes your right Psalm 121. God wanted to remind me just one more time where my help comes from.

Wow Pearl you have been many places

2008-01-18T20:09:00.000-05:00

Look at our little traveler.

This is where Corben has been

2008-01-18T19:57:00.000-05:00

This is pretty cool.

The places I've been

2008-01-18T19:53:00.000-05:00

This is sooooo cool. Where have you been?

Our new Multiply Site

2008-01-02T23:20:00.000-05:00

Hello,

We created a new site at Multiply.com that is very interesting:

http://corbenbrendapearl.multiply.com/

Merry Christmas

2007-12-28T17:37:00.000-05:00

Well it is now past, but wow was it awesome. I keep waiting for Pearl to become like every other kid I now that wants more and more gifts. However she just keeps on surprising me. She wanted to give more than receive. Pearl was content after opening one or two gifts to just be and enjoy the company and fellowship of those there. Pearl also made it through the sermon for both Sunday and Christmas Eve service. My prayer is that this will continue through out 2008. I think we have found a home for just about all the new stuff Pearl got for Christmas. Who would have thought such a little girl could get sooooooo much stuff. She is very blessed and loved. From what I can tell pearl's favorite two things of the Christmas season has been talking to Baby Jesus and looking for him as we see Christmas decorations, and counting down to Christmas using the Nativity count down calendar we have hanging in our kitchen.

Great Escape Clergy Retreat 2007!

2007-10-24T21:43:00.000-04:00

Great Escape Clergy Retreat 2007!

The recent Western Pennsylvania Conference Clergy Retreat titled ‘The Great Escape’ was a wonderful opportunity to gain new insight on some life principles as well as “The Life Journal” approach to teaching members of the body to self-feed.

The guest speaker was Bishop Wills and one of the ways he conveyed 5 excellent principles was through a video by Wayne Cordeiro. The principles are:

Know what fills and drains you. Figure out what gives you energy and what takes it away. This extends to anyone with spouses so that they can write down what fills and drains themselves and exchange it with each. If someone is single focus on what fills and drains yourself and if someone is married make sure you do not drain, but rather fill yourself and your spouse. This is also helpful for the spouse. Wayne took some time to talk about the rising divorce rate of people in ministry.

Understand balance in life. There is a balance between family/home life and ministry. One needs only to understand that the fulcrum moves. The fulcrum being the point two objects are balanced on needs to be moving and not static. If we allow room for following the Holy Spirit’s lead then when there is a push in one area or another then we can adjust the fulcrum so that if there is more needs at family move the fulcrum toward family and so move the fulcrum toward the push or direction from the Holy Spirit. This works the opposite so that if there is a need toward ministry the fulcrum can be adjusted as long as we remember this is not fixed and thus should not stay stronger to one or the other when the balance is shifted because of the push of the Holy Spirit.

Lead out of rest. Schedule rest points even though we might not always keep them, but make them the norm. An example of this is that Monday nights is family night for my family as well as Friday’s are my day off. On top of this I work a half day on Saturdays. Granted I am only a student local pastor supposedly only working part-time at the church and the rest of the time is to be devoted to studies while I am in Seminary. However, the point is if you do not even schedule times of rest then you are already behind the eight ball.

Find a lighting rod. This is to say when problems arise there needs to be a less biased person that is not related to you or the church you are serving that is reliably confidential like a professional councilor, but if that makes you uneasy then find a friend or mentor and share with your family from what Wayne Cordeiro calls “sharing from the victory side”. The victory side means that you share once the problem, dilemma, frustration, or tension has passed.

Disciplined daily devotions. This is important because “you can not give what you do not have”. This is the place where the Life Journal was discussed. The Life Journal is an approach to help everyone, all followers of Christ, be better devoted to God, coming closer to God, following Jesus way better, and seeing the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This Life Journal is a daily devotional where there is a plan to read the bible in a year, but if you follow it you will read the entire Old Testament in a year and read the New Testament twice. Wayne Cordeiro explains that the Life Journal follows the S.O.A.P. technique so that you read scripture, write out one or two verses that stand out. Then briefly write out observations about it and then write out the application usage. This is followed up by writing out a prayer.

***** Disclaimer: This is an oversimplified and out of context example only meant to show the basic idea of the S.O.A.P. technique and this is not meant to limit people, but guide the general populace. If this does not work for you it can be altered to fit the person..

This S.O.A.P. may looks something like this: if the passage chosen was “Jesus wept” an observation might be that Jesus cares and an application might be that if Jesus cares this much so should I. This leads to the prayer that the Holy Spirit might show me how to be more caring and follow Jesus example.

God bless,

Corben

Pearl is Learning and Teaching

2007-10-24T19:36:00.000-04:00

On Sunday evening there was a hymn sing at Bridgewater and since there is nobody in the congregation who could lead the singing and Corben is not a song leader we recruited my Dad. Therefore, I decided to cook dinner and have both my Mom and Dad over for dinner before the hymn sing. We were getting ready to eat the menu was homemade chicken noodle soup and Italian bread. Everyone was getting ready to eat and Pearl decided that she was really going to say the blessing so she did. I understood she said God at the beginning and Amen at the end with a huge smile when she opened her eyes. I did not understand a word in the middle, but I know God did. That would have been enough for me but she showed us more latter. When we were about done with dinner, Pearl ran to the kitchen for more bread. She grabbed the end of the loaf that I had not cut and took off. My Mom told her to wait she would cut it for her. Pearl said no I do and ran to the dinning room. She proceeded to come to me rip off a piece of bread and hand it to me, Corben, than my Dad, than my Mom. She than stood in between her Grandma and Grandpap and said "now eat." She continued to do this until there was no bread left. I guess she is listening and learning in church when I think was this really worth the effort this morning. Jesus said "Let the children come," some may believe children should not participate at the Lord's table, because they do not understand, but I say as Jesus said let them come for they do understand. They understand better than we do at times.

Our night of Bishop on the Butler District!

2007-09-22T22:43:00.000-04:00

Well we had our night of the Bishop on the Butler District and it was held at the Harmony Zeilenople UMC on September 18th, 2007.

It was a word of encouragement from our bishop to continue the increasing paid mission shares which are already higher then where we were last year at this time as well as a pep talk and a reminder of our purpose as a body of believers united as one.

The Bishop reminded us of our vision, mission, and core value as:

Vision: "To ignite and sustain a spiritual connection with Christ among all people in Western Pennsylvania"

Mission: "To provide leadership, connection, and resources to make disciples for the
transformation of the world"

And the

Core Value: as "Love" as especially seen in Matthew 22:37-39 which is a reiteration of
Deuteronomy 6:5 (loving God) and Leviticus 19:18 (love neighbor), at least in part.

I do like these, but I wonder if I would be deemed a heretic if they were changed just a little...

I much prefer

Vision: "To ignite, sustain, and feed growingly a spiritual connection with Christ among all
people especially in Western Pennsylvania"

Mission: "To provide leadership, connection, and resources to make disciples for Christ for
the transformation of the world"

And the

Core Value: as "Love" as especially seen in Matthew 22:37-39 which is a reiteration of
Deuteronomy 6:5 (loving God) and Leviticus 19:18 (love neighbor), at least in part. And in so
loving that the 10 commandments are re-focused upon as loving and glorifying God in
commandments one through four and loving our neighbor as well as edifying others in
commandments five through ten.

________

The slight changes in Vision are meant to support underlying need for constant growth instead of the common vision of sustaining only in some bodies of believers as well as expanding beyond just Western Pennsylvania while focusing on Western PA as the foremost goal.

The slight changes in Mission is meant to keep the focus on Christ and more deeply remind us of our purpose.

The slight changes in Core Value is less of a change, but rather a deeper expansion of inclusion as to what is meant by love and how that is translated into a deeper purpose and understanding.

__________

the other main aspect of the Bishop on the District was the pep talk to share with everyone that we need to be churches that are, in my own words, dieing to live instead of living to die. In other words are we following the "leading causes of life or the leading causes of death". In life then there are 5 main principles which are "Connection as a sense of meaningful relationships, Coherence as a sense that life makes sense in relation to our expectations, fears, and hopes, Agency as the ability to act and do, Blessing as a web of life that flows across generations, and hope that draws us together towards life".

It is great to get such encouragement and guidance and I know it will be personally edifying for me as well as when I share it with all those in the congregation I serve that were not able to attend.

Pearl's Communion

2007-09-19T15:21:00.000-04:00

Sunday, September 9 was communion at Bridgewater. Pearl knew as soon as we got to church that it was communion Sunday because of the difference at the altar. She immediately went up front and wanted to take communion. I talked to her and told her that it was not time yet and that she had to wait until after the sermon and than she could take communion with everyone else. Well of course as usual we did not make it that far in the service before we had to leave due to Pearl being a two almost three year-old. So after church Corben brought the elements to the house to use latter in the week for shut-in's and we ran out to lunch with Aunt Dottie and Aunt Linda.
So on Monday I was preparing dinner and Pearl came into the kitchen saw the communion bread and wanted communion. So we cleared off the table and sat down. Corben read some scripture with the elements on the table before us. Pearl sat there legs swinging and listening to Corben read. She never made a noise and I could tell was listening intently. She would look at the elements and than at her Dad. After Corben was done reading scripture he gave Pearl and I communion.
Wow. What a moment. I do not think I will ever forget that night.

Bulletin Mess ups

2007-09-17T17:10:00.001-04:00

Bulletin mess ups can be so embarrassing. I recently read one in a book on church jokes that told everyone attending the weenie roast to remember to bring your own hot dogs and guns.

This inspired me to write down a few that I have thought of:

Suicidal tendencies Church Seminary to be held Thursday only!

United Methodist rally on anti-pro war September 14th.

Celebrate our Open House, doors will be closed until 10:00 A.M.

Please remember to enjoy our Hospitality after the service.

Enjoy our chore singing Amazing Grace for todays special music.

Please remember to put out your buts before entering the church.

and finally...

UMW will be held this Thursday in the Parlor at 12:00 P.M. which will be followed by the prayer group.

*** Disclaimer: In no way do these Bulletin entries reflect any church, secretary, or personnel even if it is resembling ***

100 year celebration!!!

2007-09-17T11:45:00.000-04:00

This weekend the Bridgewater family celebrated 100 years in our current worship center (our church)

We had two services a 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. service with a dinner to follow on Saturday and an 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. service on Sunday with a light lunch to follow.

I can not believe it has been a 100 years in a single building for Bridgewater United Methodist Church. I had a great time leading the celebration this last weekend and we had great weather on top of it.

It was extremely encouraging to have guest speakers like Rev. Frank Sherman, Rev. Jim Treusel, Rev. Bonnie Rupp-Fisher, and Rev. Jeff Bobin come and share memories of their time serving here at Bridgewater as well as from the many congregational stories.

Our Scripture celebration set the tone with Matthew 7:18 through verse 29. The celebration was not about miracles, prophecies, or works of wonder, but rather relationships and faith building experiences that were focused on Jesus and the peoples response to Him.

We heard stories of people coming to faith because of Jesus’ love shining through certain members. We heard stories of object lessons that have stuck with people for at least 30 years like the worm story.

The worm story is about a person who always taught the worm lesson once a month. This person would bring in two worms and two tubes of clear liquid. The person would drop a worm in one tube and the worm would be fine and then drop the other worm in the other container and it would immediately shrivel up and die. Then there would be a follow up message explaining the other liquid was, I am going to call a similar substance to, grain alcohol. Now that is quite a lesson and on top of it they did it over and over again for possibly years.

As I was leading both services I realized that Bridgewater had their first Pastor appointed in 1808 which was only 24 after the first two Bishops Coke and Asbury where commissioned. For me it is much more of a big deal that Bridgewater has been faithfully serving the community and sharing Christ as a group of people for 199 years, and as of 2008 a full 200 years of service. I can still appreciate the 100 year celebration in one building especially since the focus was on relationships and sharing Jesus love instead of things that happened in this particular building.

With this said I am still blown away by almost 200 years of Pastoral care and support to a single group that has been together almost as long as the origin of Methodism that has become our modern denomination as a whole.

Go Navy

2007-09-12T10:01:00.000-04:00

On August 31st we got to see Justin for the first time since he left for boot camp on July 5th. Wow. What a change. The boy that lived with us a few short months ago and I was arguing with about doing his homework and throwing away his McDonald's garbage, and telling him I needed his clothes so that I could wash them was now standing in front of me in his dress whites saying yes mam thank you mam opening doors for people and wait did I really see him eat broccoli. He is no longer a high school boy trying to just get by but now a US Sailor flying out this morning for further training in Texas. He told us that there is a chance that after that he might go to Iraq. God knows where he will end up and we a trusting God for Justin to be ready for whatever that is and where ever that might be when it happens in about six weeks. We are very proud of Justin and the things he has done thus far. Pearl really enjoyed her time she got to spend with Justin and has been telling everyone about their trip to Six Flags and the Chicago Zoo. Until we see him again we will have these memories and many more and being praying for his safety. Please join us in praying for him and all other military throughout the world.

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-08-27T12:28:00.001-04:00

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-08-27T12:21:00.001-04:00

August What a Month

2007-08-27T11:23:00.001-04:00

This month is almost over and we have had a very busy but wonderful month. We started the month off by traveling to Wilmore Kentucky as a family so that Corben could take his last class of the summer. I planned on Pearl and I playing outside a lot on the playground on campus and other local parks....however when on the first day there when Pearl wanted to leave the play ground at 9:30 in the morning because it was too hot I knew I had to make other plans. So we made a trip to Walmart to buy paint, paper, glue, and siccors. That kept us very busy and she brought home with her a book bag full of wonderful art work. On Friday afternoon we took a drive to the Shaker Village. Pearl enjoyed the animals and watching them make brooms the best. It was very neat to see how the shakers used to live. We were told that there is only one living Shaker left and that they live in Main. On Saturday morning we headed for Tennessee for a week of vacation. Our first stop was in Nashville. We stopped by the football stadium to take pictures for our cousin who for some crazy reason is a Titian fan. We still love him though. We had dinner at the Aquarium a restaurant where while you eat fish swim around you. Than it was off to the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area in the Smokies. We spent a few days at Dollywood Park, an evening at the Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg, and an afternoon driving through the Smokies on the Cades Cove loop. We headed for home on Thursday morning so that we were home in time to end our vacation at the Pittsburgh Pirate game against Philadelphia on Friday for Sky Blast two, with Bishop Bickerton throwing out a first pitch. Pearl spent a few innings at the playground, but returned to her seat for the fireworks and concert. Last week was called doctor appointment for me and catch up week for Corben. Pearl enjoyed seeing and hanging out with Grandma and Grandpap Price and Aunt Dottie. My sister won two tickets to last nights Steeler game against the Philadelphia Eagles. She was unable to go so she gave them to Corben and I. It was a great night out for us, and Pearl had a great night with Grandma and Grandpap. Her and PapPap cut grass with the tractor and swam in their pool. What more could a two year old ask for. On Thursday we are headed for Great Lakes Illinois to see our cousin Justin graduate from Navy boot camp.

Greaser Babies

2007-08-23T00:17:00.001-04:00

Pearl Loves this video! It is rather cute and strange.

CONCIERTO MARCOS WITT DIOS ES BUENO / VENGAN TODOS

2007-08-21T11:29:00.001-04:00

Languages are so amazing. This Spanish song really captures the heart we should have when we want to enter the presence of God and worship Him.

This is the the translation as it has been given to me:

Hey! Vengan todos,
es el tiempo de alabar a Dios//
Everyone come, it is time to praise God
(Repeat)

Con la musica y con nuestra cancion le alabamos hoy.
With music and with our song we praise you today
Con el jubilo de la adoracion le alabamos hoy.
Rejoicing in adoration we praise you today

Coro:
//Hey! Vengan todos,
es el tiempo de alabar a Dios//
Everyone come, it is time to praise God.
(Repeat)

Por su eterno amor y su fidelidad le alabamos hoy.
For your eternal love and your faithfulness we praise you today
Por su salvacion y su gran bondad le alabamos hoy.
For your salvation and your great kindness we praise you today

Coro:
//Hey! Vengan todos,
es el tiempo de alabar a Dios//
Everyone come, it is time to praise God.
(Repeat)

Con la musica y con nuestra cancion le alabamos hoy.
With music and with our song we praise you today
Con el jubilo de la adoracion le alabamos hoy.
Rejoicing in adoration we praise you today

Coro:
//Hey! Vengan todos,
es el tiempo de alabar a Dios//
Everyone come, it is time to praise God.
(Repeat)

Por su eterno amor y su fidelidad le alabamos hoy.
For your eternal love and your faithfulness we praise you today
Por su salvacion y su gran bondad le alabamos hoy.
For your salvation and your great kindness we praise you today.

Coro:
//Hey! Vengan todos,
es el tiempo de alabar a Dios//
es el tiempo de alabar a Dios
Everyone come, it is time to praise God (Repeat)
It is time to praise God

God bless,
Corben

Corben's personality test results

2007-08-08T22:10:00.000-04:00

Well I knew I was crazy and this just proves it :-)

"ENTPs are idea people. Their perceptive abilities cause them to see possibilities everywhere. They get excited and enthusiastic about their ideas, and are able to spread their enthusiasm to others. In this way, they get the support that they need to fulfill their visions"

Next 30

2007-08-07T16:01:00.000-04:00

Well here it is. A little over a week ago I turned 30 and I said that I wanted to make a list of things I wanted to do. So the next day as I sat waiting to see the dentist I made my list, and now I am putting it out there for all to give their 2 cents.

Routine exercise
Eat healthy
Daily quiet timme with God in prayer and study of His Word
Yearly Doctor visit
Bi-yearly Dentist visit
Monthly date night with Corben
Monthly girls day with Pearl to coinside with Corben's spiritual day
Call and talk with my Grandparents on a weekly basis
Famliy devotions
Nighty devotions with Corben
Weekly family night
Weekly family day
One meal a day @ the table as a family
One week a year vacation with just Corben and Pearl
Monthly day away
Establish family traditions

Some of these things I already do some will be new. Some of these things need a lot of work others are consistant and do not need much work at all.

I Took the Test

2007-08-07T15:46:00.001-04:00

I did it I took the personality test. I wonder what Corben is.

How long is too long for a sermon?

2007-07-31T13:39:00.000-04:00

I found this online at a sermon humor website: http://www.javacasa.com/humor/sermon.htm

"A preacher was on program at a district convention to preach for twenty minutes. The other preachers from the district were sitting behind him in the choir section, giving him moral support and throwing in an occassional "Amen" to help the preacher along. The preacher preached his twenty minutes and continued on despite alloted time. He preached for 30 minutes, then forty minutes and then for an hour. He even continued for an hour and ten minutes. Finally, a brother sitting on the front row took a song book and threw it at the preacher that was still going strong in his message. The preacher saw the song book as it was hurled his way and he ducked. The song book hit one of the preachers sitting in the choir section. As the man in the choir section was going down, you could hear him say, "Hit me again, I can still hear him preaching!"

Pastoral Family

2007-07-31T02:21:00.000-04:00

Well it has been a year since Corben got his first appointment as a United Methodist pastor, and since we became a pastoral family. It has been a very exciting year with many ups and downs along the way. I am very blessed to be a part of this journey in many ways and God is showing me new things on I would say pretty much a daily basis. One of the things that has surprised me most over the past year is how much I have enjoyed being a part of the church where up until January Pearl was the only child and Corben and I were the age of must of the member's grandchildren. I had always told my parents that I would always do youth ministry, because I hated working with old people. Boy does God have a sense of humor. It has been wonderful getting involved with the United Methodist Women's group here at Bridgewater, and as a result believe it or not starting next year at the District level. I always thought of the UMW as a old ladies group. My mom always told me to keep an open mind and not say that sort of thing. Well I will say it, she was and is right (if not all the time most of the time). Pearl has not yet let me sit through many worship services over this past year so that is still a work in progress and I would say at times one of my most frustrating weekly experiences. I have also found it hard to believe what we as a church have in place for the mentoring and accountability of Pastors and their families. I can not believe that for the local pastors they meet as a group for one to two hours six times a year and that is to be their accountability group and also mentoring time with their clergy mentor. One mentor for 15 to 20 pastors, and an accountability group that size. Pretty dysfunctional if you ask me. I also have been left a little dismayed at the spouses activities. I have in the past year not once been contacted by another Pastor's spouse to ask me how things are going or to give me advice. I think that we as a church need to do more for the spouses of pastors as well as do more for the pastors, especially for new pastors and their families. With that said I would say that the local church has been a true blessing, the connectional church well let's just say we need to ask God for help. I do have some ideas from what I have experienced if there is anyone out there reading this who might be in a position to make some changes and wants to listen.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

2007-07-30T15:01:00.000-04:00

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows:

I will write SPOILER WARNING if someone plans on readying the book and has not just before the paragraph that could possibly give a clue to the last of the Potter books, Deathly Hallows.

Is Harry Potter compatible with the bible and Christian teaching? Magic in the sense of the book is fiction and not reality. There are those in the world today who believe it to be true, but alas it is an illusion. It may not be a mere illusion since anything Satan gets his hands into can be not only tempting and seem real, but it usually contains at least a grain of truth so that it more convincingly entices. In Harry Potter and the chamber of secrets there is a plant called Devil’s Snare and it would seem the more you struggle the more you get intertwined and sucked in. The interesting part is when light, real light, hits the snare it shrinks away into the nothing that it really is.

Of course the magic that is presented in Harry Potter is not true, but one thing can not be denied.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows sold a record breaking 15 Million copies worldwide in the first 24 hours of its release which was noted in the Dateline interview with the famous author J.K. Rowling on NBC that aired July 29^th, 2007.

15 Million Copies in the first 24 hours seem inconceivable, but it is true. What is the most common global language today; it may just very well be ‘Potterian’. The language of world and person hood J.K. Rowling’s has created.

If we are going to speak to people with cultural relevance than maybe we need to know what they are talking about. This is why I was so excited to see the truth of the Gospel in the Harry Potter series even though it may not have been intentional.

The Dateline interview previously mentioned J.K. Rowling talks about redemption and forgiveness and that after the last book ends a new beginning is enabled. All very similar to one special person Christians everywhere hold dear, Jesus. In fact Harry Potter is called the ‘chosen one’. Jesus is God’s chosen one is he not? The series though speaks volumes on so many different levels and in so many different ways. I DO NOT WANT TO GIVE ANYTHING AWAY for those that have not read the last book yet, but the Christ like examples in it are amazing. I know there are holes, but it is something that culture knows and is interested in talking about and on top of that the face of Jesus can be seen in it.

At another point in the interview with J.K. Rowling she says, “We all have a choice like the Malfoy’s of the world”. The Malfoy’s are a family that makes some bad choices and chooses to follow greed, pride, and other things many church goers would today call sin, but J.K. Rowling is so right. ‘We all have a choice” and we are responsible for that choice.

I have many acquaintances that spasm at the idea of talking about Harry Potter let alone reading him as if they might get tainted, infected, or tempted to go down the wrong path, but Harry Potter shows, mortality, humility, selflessness, compassion, mercy, and grace in multiple forms (prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying). Harry Potter also shows these previously mentioned in balance with faith, love, truth, righteousness, and justice.

SPOILER WARNING

In the end the Harry Potter series is a made up world, fiction, but the truth of the bible, and especially Jesus Christ dying on the cross for the forgiveness of sins so that all who believe may have ever lasting life, redemption, is represented in one way or another, even the resurrection.

That is all I can say at this time so that I do not spoil the book

Happy Birthday to me

2007-07-29T09:28:00.000-04:00

It is my birthday. Today is the big 30 as some may say. I am grateful for the blessings, challenges and growth God has given me the past 30 years and am looking forward to the next 30 years. Today Tim McGraw's song the next 30 years is my song. So I am going to make a list of what I am going to do. I will post it latter after I make it.

Worship God Tonight

2007-07-28T20:33:00.000-04:00

Tonight we went to worship with our Christian family at Concord UMC for Saturday Celebration. Usually Corben is up front and pearl and I are in the pews with me trying to keep her quiet and there and Pearl wanting to either get up front with her dad or to the nursery to play. Not tonight. Tonight during the beginning of worship, a time of singing praises to God, Pearl wanted her Dad to hold her while we praised God. Corben was holding Pearl with one hand and raised his other hand while he sang praises to God. Pearl was looking at him and than the next thing I knew she put her hand in the air and was singing. I do not know what she was saying, but I am sure God knows. Pearl than went to the nursery to play, which is staffed, at Bridgewater if Pearl has to go to the nursery than so do I. So I got to actually sit and listen to the sermon. Which was great. The title of the sermon was "I did it my way---and still got to heaven! Why Mike is not a Christian." A few of the things that I want to remember from the sermon tonight are: 1)Know that Jesus is the ONLY way. 2) Know the truth and be concerned that others know the truth. 3) Be ready to give reason for my belief in a respectful way. It was a great evening and a truly needed worship time.

Justin is staying

2007-07-28T12:47:00.000-04:00

Thanks for all of your prayers. Justin called Grandma and Grandpap yesterday and talked to them for a little over an hour. He said that things are looking up and that he is staying in the Navy. He said the food is great that they have all the stuff he likes. He said that he is getting mail now, he did not realize that he had to go pick some of it up at the mail room. He said that he learned how to iron, and that they get up everyday at 2:00 AM and spend an hour ironing their uniforms. My dad his Uncle Leonard said at least they could do is let them iron at a more reasonable hour. Justin said that he has passed the test that he had to take and that they have pointed him out for how he does his push-ups. He is looking forward to seeing all of us when he graduates on August 31st. I will be driving Grandma and Grandpap out along with Corben, Pearl, and myself for the graduation. He only has 4 tickets so Corben and Pearl are going to stay at the hotel while we go to the base for the ceremony. Than after the ceremony we will bring Justin back to the hotel to see them. He sent a message that I better bring Pearl with me, because he wants to see her. Please keep praying for him as he continues to train to defend our country.

"The Cross Makes Murderers Of Us All" from Becky Pippert

2007-07-26T17:06:00.000-04:00

"The Cross Makes Murderers Of Us All" is such an interesting true story that when I read I knew I needed to share it with blogland.

The following is an excerpt from:

Hope Has Its Reasons, Rebecca Manley Pippert (pgs. 102-104)

"Several years ago after I had finished speaking at a conference, a lovely woman came to the platform. She obviously wanted to speak to me and the moment I turned to her, tears welled up in her eyes. We made our way to a room where we could talk privately. It was clear from looking at her that she was sensitive but tortured. She sobbed as she told me the following story.

Years before, she and her fiancé (to whom she was now married) had been the youth workers at a large conservative church. They were a well-known couple and had an extraordinary impact on the young people. Everyone looked up to them and admired them tremendously. A few months before they were to be married they began having sexual relations. That left them burdened enough with a sense of guilt and hypocrisy. But then she discovered she was pregnant. “You can’t imagine what the implications would have been of admitting this to our church,” she said. “To confess that we were preaching one thing and living another would have been intolerable. The congregation was so conservative and had never been touched by any scandal. We felt they wouldn’t be able to handle knowing about our situation. Nor could we bear the humiliation.

“So we made the most excruciating decision I have ever made. I had an abortion. My wedding day was the worst day of my entire life. Everyone in the church was smiling at me, thinking me a bride beaming in innocence. But do you know what was going through my head as I walked down the aisle? All I could think to myself was, ‘You’re a murderer. You were so proud that you couldn’t bear the shame and humiliation of being exposed for what you are. But I know what you are and so does God. You have murdered an innocent baby.’”

She was sobbing so deeply that she could not speak. As I put my arms around her a thought came to me very strongly. But I was afraid to say it. I knew if it was not from God that it could be very destructive. So I prayed silently for the wisdom to help her.

She continued. “I just can’t believe that I could do something so horrible. How could I have murdered an innocent life? How is it possible I could do such a thing? I love my husband. We have four beautiful children. I know the Bible says that God forgives all of our sins. But I can’t forgive myself! I’ve confessed this sin a thousand times and I still feel such shame and sorrow. The thought that haunts me the most is how could I murder an innocent life?”

I took a deep breath and said what I had been thinking. “I don’t know why you are so surprised. This isn’t the first time your sin has led to death, it’s the second.” She looked at me in utter amazement. “My dear friend,” I continued, “when you look at the cross, all of us show up as crucifiers. Religious or nonreligious, good or bad, aborters or nonaborters—all of us are responsible for the death of the only innocent who ever lived. Jesus died for all of our sins—past, present, and future. Do you think there are any sins of yours that Jesus didn’t have to die for? The very sin of pride that caused you to destroy your child is what killed Christ as well. It does not matter that you weren’t there two thousand years ago. We all sent him there. Luther said that we carry his very nails in our pockets. So if you have done it before, then why couldn’t you do it again?”

She stopped crying. She looked me straight in the eyes and said, “You’re absolutely right. I have done something even worse than killing my baby. My sin is what drove Jesus to the cross. It doesn’t matter that I wasn’t there pounding in the nails. I’m still responsible for his death. Do you realize the significance of what you are telling me, Becky? I came to you saying I had done the worst thing imaginable. And you tell me I have done something even worse than that.”

I grimaced because I knew this was true. (I am not sure that my approach would qualify as one of the great counseling techniques!) Then she said, “But, Becky, if the cross shows me that I am far worse than I had ever imagined, it also shows me that my evil has been absorbed and forgiven. If the worst thing any human can do is to kill God’s son, and that can be forgiven, then how can anything else—even my abortion—not be forgiven?”

I will never forget the look in her eyes as she sat back in awe and quietly said, “Talk about amazing grace.” This time she wept not out of sorrow but from relief and gratitude. I saw a woman literally transformed by a proper understanding of the cross."

Hope Has Its Reasons, Rebecca Manley Pippert (pgs. 102-104)

Wow, that is something to think about and it really levels the playing field. No one is better then anyone else so no one should be prideful or hypocritical.

Justin Update

2007-07-26T09:46:00.000-04:00

We got a letter from Justin yesterday. He is still at Great Lakes participating in training. However he still does not like it. By the sounds of it it's not the Navy he doesn't like it is being away from family that he dislikes. He tells us that he needs his family. We wrote him letters encouraging him to hang in there that after the first couple of weeeks we will be able to visit and see him as often as he wants to see us. He wants to try to switch to the Navy reserves or get out on medical from when he broke his arm when he was in kindergarden. I have encouraged him not to do anything to quickly and to always be honest and tell the truth. Still praying for him.

Brenda's Turning 30:-)

2007-07-23T01:21:00.000-04:00

I can not believe it. Brenda is turning thirty. It is amazing to think she is still so young and yet so mature. Birthdays come and birthdays go, but I am forever grateful for Brenda being born. She truly is God's helpmate for me and I for her. As this momentus occasion approaches, July 29th of 2007, we already celebrated a surprise party tonight at Brenda's mother's house. I am not sure how surprised she was, actually she was not surprised at all. Brenda is one smart cookie.

I would be lost without her. There is no gift great enough, there is no appreciation strong enough, there is no words to convey thanks for everything Brenda has done, is, and continues to be and do.

Happy birthday

Daddy's coming home

2007-07-20T13:38:00.000-04:00

Well here it is Friday afternoon and Pearl is very excited. I am also. Corben has been in Kentucky this week for the second of his three classes for the summer. He called at about 12:30 and said he was done and on his way home. I gave Pearl the phone for him to tell her, and she got a smile on her face so big I can not describe it. We are also very proud of him because he got an A in his class. The class he was taking was on Technology in ministry. He was learning how to produce videos and do powerpoint for worship services. I do not think he'll be able to use the knowledge here at Bridgewater, but I know God is preparing him for the future ministry He has in store for us. We can not wait to see him he will be home this evening. Pearl will be a little bigger at the next graduation. This picture was taken May of 2005 when Corben graduated from Geneva.

Please Pray

2007-07-11T09:58:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday we went up to the Federal Building in Pittsburgh to say good bye to our cousin Justin as he shipped out for the Navy. He will be at Great Lakes Naval Base in Illinois for the next nine weeks. He called home yesterday and said that this is harder than he thought and did not know if he could make it. I know that he can. Please join us in praying for Justin. This is a picture of Pearl and Justin that day right before we left.

God of Wonders

2007-07-09T09:50:00.000-04:00

It is amazing to see special relationships. I am amazed when I see Brenda and Pearl sitting together in the chair watching a kids movie.

God is so amazing and watching Brenda and Pearl relate as they bond today reminds me what God of wonders we truly have.

This thing God created called motherhood is such an amazing gift. It not to say mothers have it easy for Pearl gives us all, mom, dad, gramma, papap, and the like all a run for our money, but to see mother and daughter relate and relax together, the way God designed is awesome.

Russell Family Update

2007-07-01T10:52:00.000-04:00

Wow it has been a long time since I have posted a blog. Here is what has been happening around here. In May Corben finished up the spring semester. Pearl and I were very happy it was over and proud of Corben for all of the hard work he put into the semester. We took Pearl to two Pirate games in May she seems to like going to the ball games alot. We traveled to White Lake Onterio for a weeks vacation. We took my sister with us. Pearl had a blast "fishing" and hanging with everyone. No phones, no TV, no computers. It was great. Pearl did have a portable DVD player and Aunt Dottie did not want to even her the name Shrek upon our return to the states. After vacation Pearl develped an ear infection which caused a high fever and resulted in a trip to the ER with a sevrille seisure. The doctors say they cause no damage and that she will grow out of them, the key is to keep her tempertures down. Than it was off to Annual Conference @ Grove City College. This was a very eye opening event. I enjoyed getting to catch up with old friends, getting to meet some of the other bloggers face to face, and meeting new friends. I was a little disappointed with the clergy spouse event. It seemed like everyone for the most part had their group of friends and did not want new people to come in. We'lll have to wait and see what happens next time. After Annual Conference we picked Pearl up from Grandma and Grandpap's Sunday night, unpacked, and repacked to head for Pigeion Forge Tennessee @ 7 AM Monday morning with my parents, grandparents, and cousin. Two cars with eight people and a whole lot of stuff headed to a cabin in the Somokies. Awsome time was had by all even in the mist of construction traffic and one car breaking down on the way home. On Father's Day Corben left for a week at school in Kentucky. Pearl and I took my Dad and sister to the Pirate Game for my Dad's birthday and Father's Day. We also took my sister, she said it was too hot and that we parked too far away. Corben came home to a very happy Pearl that Daddy was home. She meet him at the car and would not even let him get out. This past week Pearl went to the community Bible School. She loved it did not even want us to take her in after the first night just wanted to say by love you have fun and run in. To her dimay however someone always took her in. She is defintly going to miss it, and so will I two hours to get stuff done. Maybe Pre-shcool is a thing for her. Yesterday we celebrated Justin's graduation from high school, and his leaving for the Navy on July 4th. We are so proud of him. We can not wiat to see him in his Navy Uniform. Pearl will miss him, but she will survive along with Justin and the rest of the family. Today we are done with church and are now getting ready to go to the Pirate game, it is kid's day, Pearl will get an autograped baseball. After that we will come home and the family is comeing over for homemade icecream and staying for Bridgewater's Fireworks. Wow what a start to summer. Will post a few pictres latter.

By the Grace of God!

2007-06-11T00:03:00.000-04:00

By the Grace of God I have my first publish work: a Sermonet :-)

On Saturday June 9th, 2007 I had a small excerpt posted through the cooperation of Christians United in Beaver County in the section entitled: FROM THE PULPIT

ANYONE GOOD ENOUGH?

Passages like James 4:17 are a hard pill to swallow for people who believe Jesus Christ to be their Lord and Savior. It is a struggle to come to grips that sin is sin no matter how great or how small. Then to realize as James 4:17 explains even if someone only knows of the good they are supposed to do and they do not do it they sin. Is anyone good enough?

So often people look at those believers of Jesus Christ, the ones often called Christians, and see people who think they are better then everyone else. The fact is no one is better then anyone else, there is no pedestal, and more over anyone who is a believer is worse off since they know the good they are supposed to do and yet do not always do it.

I remember a young man calling himself a Christian once came across a couple whose car had ran out of gas and when the couple asked for a few dollars because they had left their money and credit cards at home the young man told them to hold on. So they waited a few minutes, the young man came back and said “I have something better then money” and handed the couple a pamphlet about Jesus Christ and who He is. The good the young man did not do was that He did not help this stranded couple in their time of need. Is anyone really good enough?

No one, not a single person, is good enough except for one. This one was and is perfect. This one died on the cross so that all who believe may have everlasting life. This one took on all the sins past, present and future for himself. This one who did not deserve to be punished, was humiliated, shamed, tortured, died on the cross, and rose from the dead three days later so that there could be real hope. Hope in being good enough. People who believe in Jesus are no better then anyone else, but should strive to do all the good they ought to do.

Niagra Falls

2007-05-07T11:06:00.000-04:00

On Friday after Justin got out of school we left for Niagara Falls. I had taken Justin to Niagara Falls back in 2001 in February and told him that someday we would go back when it wasn't so cold. Well he leaves in less than 2 months for the Navy so Corben and I decided it was time to go and we figured Pearl would enjoy the trip also. Everyone had a great time. Pearl's two highlights were swimming at the hotel, and going up to the top of Skylon Tower. Pearl kept calling the falls, "falls water," instead of water falls. Here are a few pictures.

Pearl at the top of Skylon Tower

The falls from the top of Skylon Tower

The three of us

Justin and Pearl outside of the Souvenir Store

Nothing But Nets

2007-05-07T10:57:00.000-04:00

On April 19th Bridgewater had their semi-annual Braised Steak Public Dinner. There are usually around 200 people who come through the doors of the church for this dinner. So we decided to have a display for the nothing but nets campaign. We took Pearl's pack n play and placed it at the entrance to the church with a net on it. We than had a information sheet to give to anyone who asked what is this about. The pack n play is now sitting in the sanctuary as a reminder to the congregation. If you would like more information go to www.nothingbutnets.net and check it out.

Pap Russell

2007-05-07T10:48:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago we went to visit Corben's family for Easter. We had a good time and while there we got to spend time with Corben's Gram and Pap. They are an amazing couple and have so much to offer us. They have been there done that and if we just take the time to listen to them we can learn so much. This is a picture of Corben and Pearl with Pap.

Can Not Believe It

2007-04-15T19:32:00.000-04:00

For the past couple of weeks we have been working with Pearl on attending Sunday School. Here at Bridgewater there is only one Sunday School class and it is an adult class. So, since coming here Corben has been attending Sunday School and Pearl and I have chilled at home. It has been going pretty well for the past couple of weeks today during Sunday School Pearl of course had to go potty so we left came back than she said she had to go again. Not so she was just playing games...therefore we had a talk about lies and she got very upset. Back to Sunday school eventually after she calmed down. Than she had a mental breakdown. She wanted to go upstairs and pray she told her Dad. He told her they would, but after we prayed downstairs first. That is when she ran to the door threw her self down and yelled cried and kicked. (I have no idea where she would get that from.) So I was like this is going to be one long church service and did not expect to make it through announcements let alone the whole service. However God is amazing and we Pearl and myself were in church the whole time. At the end of Corben's sermon there however was a scary and than amazing moment. He asked for a moment of silence...Pearl stood up put her chin on the pew in front of us...I held my breath and was ready to grab her and run...than I heard it...absolute silence...you could hear a pin drop. Than came the benediction, Pearl imitated her Dad from begining to end. Hands in the air talking and even coughed when he did. Next week? I pray for the same, but time will tell,

What Church Father are You?

2007-04-14T19:42:00.000-04:00

I recently took a brief survey to determine which church father I most closely resemble the results are scary:

You are Origen!
You do nothing by half-measures. If you’re going to read the Bible, you want to read it in the original languages. If you’re going to teach, you’re going to reach as many souls as possible, through a proliferation of lectures and books. If you’re a guy and you’re going to fight for purity … well, you’d better hide the kitchen shears.

http://www.fathersofthechurch.com/quiz/

What Superhero are You?

2007-04-14T19:27:00.000-04:00

Your results:You are Green Lantern
Green Lantern
85%
Spider-Man
80%
The Flash
70%
Iron Man
70%
Superman
60%
Supergirl
60%
Wonder Woman
60%
Hulk
60%
Catwoman
55%
Robin
50%
Batman
20%
Hot-headed. You have strong will power and a good imagination.
Click here to take the "Which Superhero are you?" quiz...

I always thought I had a good imagination, but hot-headed? My wife agrees, at least, at times

Brenda took the test and she came up as Superman

Potty Time

2007-04-14T18:59:00.000-04:00

For about a month now we have been working with Pearl on using the potty on a regular basis. Peeing on the potty has been going very well for about a week or two now. However pooping was a different story. But, on Thursday we had a break through. Corben and I decided that we were not going to give in and about two hours latter Pearl pooped on the potty. She was excited and so were we. We are still going to use diapers at night and at nap time, but that is it. Pearl also last night took the potty seat off of the toilet and is sitting on the big people's toilet seat.

Easter Week Almost Done

2007-04-14T18:46:00.000-04:00

Well, it is Saturday evening and our week of Easter celebration is just about to come to an end. We started the week with church, and family visits and ended the week with family visits and icecream. We got to go and spend time this past Thursday and Friday with Corben's grandparents and parents. We had a great time visiting with all of them. Pearl enjoyed the car ride both ways(and no potty mishaps either), and also enjoyed her time having Easter egg hunts and playing with Grandma and Grandpap Russell's dog, Oatsie." Upon returning home we had Aunt Dottie's Mac and Cheese and went to J & T's with Aunt Dottie. This was our first trip of the year and while there we ran into Uncle Mike and cousin Michael. Michael told us all about baseball practice while we waited for our icecream. Pearl really enjoyed her first J & T icecream, last year she would not eat icecream.

HAPPY EASTER

2007-04-09T16:57:00.000-04:00

Prayer

2007-03-27T08:27:00.000-04:00

We all know that prayer is a very powerful thing. This afternoon a friend of ours who is a missionary with the Mission Society is leaving for Peru. She will be doing ministry throughout Peru for the next four and a half weeks. Please join us in praying for her and the people of Peru who she will be ministering to.

Father God,
I just ask you to be with Sue today as she leaves for Peru. I ask you to go with her, to give her a peace while she travels. Allow her time to rest. Please God be with the people of Peru as they finish preparing for Sue's arrival.

Cousins living in one house

2007-03-27T08:09:00.000-04:00

At the begining of March our cousin Justin came to stay with us. It has been a great time and a learning experience for all of us. Corben and Justin have enjoyed some quality time (that's what they say at least) playing video games. They have also enjoyed some long talks. Justin and I have had talks about forgiveness, truth, and grace. He has given me a lot to think about. He might not relize it, but he is living like Christ in ways that some of us strive for on a regular basis. While Justin has been here the past few weeks Pearl has started to understand the concept of school. She has also learned to say his name, up until yeterday she has called him Just all the time. When Justin came so did his drum set. Pearl really enjoys that addition to the house. Both Pearl and Justin love to play the drums. We have all enjoyed having Justin around and will mess him greatly when he leaves for the Navy. However there is alot to be done till that time. We are planning on hosting Easter dinner for the family, a trip to a Pirates game, family vacation to Canada including my sister Dottie and Justin, Justin's graduation from high school, a trip to Dolly Wood with my parents, grandparents, and Justin.

Spring...I Think it is Here!!!

2007-03-12T20:22:00.000-04:00

I think spring is here. This morning I could here the birds singing while I was making the beds and getting ready for the day. When I went out to get the paper this morning Pearl ran out the door with me and did not yell cold. So I said to her do you want to take a walk. She of course said with a huge smile and jumping up and down yes. Pearl than ran inside told her Dad we were taking a walk and gathered up her dolls and bears to join us. Daddy could not join us this morning, because he had to go visiting. We walked down to the newspaper recycle bin dropped off our newspapers and than walk down to the river. On the way to the river I saw a robin. I told Pearl that the bird over there was a robin because it had a red tummy and that when we see a robin that means spring is here. She started singing bird has red tummy. The last time we were at the river was about a month ago when it was frozen over and covered with snow, and she asked where are the ducks. We told here they would be back when it got warmer. Well, this morning when we got to the river the ducks and geese were back she was so excited. Tonight after dinner Daddy was able to join us for a walk. We walk back to the river and the ducks were still there. After walking to the river we walked down to Bruster's. Pearl is just barely short enough (40 inches or shorter and you get a free baby cone)39 inches for a free cone. She got purple dinosaur, it was just the right size for her. The next time we will have to take a picture. On our way back we even got to stop and talk to Mr Anderson, and Jean Lopes from church, who were also out enjoying the nice spring weather.

2007-03-03T00:26:00.000-05:00

Partnersteps!

Is this a plug for another one of Conferences one size fits all program to rebirth dying churches or is there a different way of thinking then what we are used to that can help us be, act, and do in a way that is more God centered, Jesus focused, seeking to specifically do whatever God wants his followers to do right here and right now and do it together. I know this togetherness thing is different then the way we have always done things, different then the way we are used to thinking, but maybe, just maybe this whole one body thing with many parts in the New Testament is an old idea and not a new one. An opportunity to work together, utilizing each of our talents, skills, abilities, gifts, and graces in the way God intended, sharing in Ministry.

I like to reflect on I Corinthians 12 when thinking of working together.

SNOW DAY

2007-02-14T18:45:00.000-05:00

Here are a few of the pictures from our morning in the snow. We walked down to the river. Pearl must have thought we were going to see the ducks, because when we got there she asked, "What happened to quack quack?" To say the least we could find none for her to see.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2007-02-14T18:44:00.000-05:00