Some things add up

After 6 months of being out of "full time ministry", I find myself struggling to see the big picture at times. The enemy attacks, and I wonder what all I have accomplished, and if I am merely a self absorbed person who requires a paycheck in order to be a minister of Christ… (These are lies from the enemy I know, but we still have to acknowledge that the thoughts are there, and do battle with them daily).















Anyways, I recently dug out the files containing the notes for every sermon/message/talk that I have done since I came to Sidney in 1995. I am looking for some notes to help me prepare my messages for the Power Zone Camp in Alberta this August. I had to stand back and just look at 10 years of preaching the Gospel, and calling people to discipleship. It was quite a moment for me, a little look at the bigger picture. I remember the faces of all the young disciples I've had the privelage to sit and discuss these ideas with over coffee. It was a nice reminder from God that there is more than what I am feeling right now. I am a part of a larger story, even if this chapter is about rest and reflection – not necessarily about action. Even as I write this I feel better, knowing that I am following my King and not “missing out”. Thanks to those of you who have persisted in praying for Jaime and I. You may never know how much we appreciate it!

Changing of the guard

Sometimes in life it is good to mark significant changes with some act or symbol. It helps us remember and process the past. We call them milestones.
For those who know me well, you will know that I have had my 1995 Honda since it was new. On that day in June 95, I hung a plastic model of a Klingon Bird of Prey (a cool spaceship) from the rear view mirror. I loved the Klingon warrior ethos, and the type of ship, so it was a natural thing to do. Over 10 years, my friends and students came to identify Rob’s car as the one with that particular ship hanging from the mirror.

Well… all things in life must change. And so today, June 12, 2006, After 11 years of faithful service, I have decided to retire the Bird of Prey. I know this will be hard for many of you to accept, but let me explain…
Jaime and I are in a time of transition that will lead to new adventure in the unknown. My car is no longer new, and I seriously pray that God will keep the old girl working, because I’m gonna need it. So I have reached further back into my childhood and drawn out an image that better reflects my relationship with my car heading into this era of life. An image that has perhaps signified my most lifelong and profound relationship with a vehicle. An image that embodies the words of a great man; “… She’ll hold together! ‘Hear me baby, just hold together…”

The Millennium Falcon.

Here’s to another 11 years of great memories.