I have now survived my first two days of school as a fifth grade teacher. The first day was a minimum day and the kids were all a bit shy being back. But today was a different story. It was regular length and the kids were all excited to be back and around their friends. They're also testing me to see how much they can get away with. I had a headache by the end of the day. Please pray that I will know how to handle the situations that come my way. Pray that God will use others to help me with all of the new things I'm dealing with. If you can give me any pointers or specific tips for controlling and teaching my students, please do. I think I am a fairly good classroom manager, but I haven't experienced this before.
I don't know what's in store for this year and it's hard to see the light because of all the chaos. But I do know one thing is for sure: God is still good.
Thursday, August 2
Tuesday, July 10
Be An Encourager
Something I've noticed is that it feels great to be encouraged. I try to be encouraging, but I'm sure that it doesn't happen all the time. In this age, people tend to belittle and speak negatively to those around. We are called to be the opposite. How much of a difference could we make if we were to encourage the people we come in contact with? Imagine what people would think. Some people could be the janitor, your boss, your spouse, your kids, your parents, co-workers, the mailman, etc. The list could go on and on. A little encouragement goes a long way.
1 Thessalonians 5:11-24 says
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it."
How are we doing at obeying this scripture?
1 Thessalonians 5:11-24 says
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it."
How are we doing at obeying this scripture?
Tuesday, July 3
Catch Up
Wow it's been a long time since I last posted. Honestly, I don't know why I haven't made a few minutes here or there to keep you all informed. I apologize for that.
Here are some things that have happened over the past month and a half:
I got a long term sub job for the end of this school year
I bought two pocket bikes (baby motorcycles)
I got hired for next year
We have been spending a lot of time with our friends
I don't think that I mentioned the long term sub earlier, but I am done now. School got out June 21. It was a very helpful experience and I was able to inherit a bunch of 5th grade materials.
Through my usual browsing of Craigslist, I saw a posting of two pocket bikes for $50. It's my birthday this month, so I figured that I would spend some of that money early on this good deal. The bikes weren't working at the time I bought them, but I have put a little more money and TLC so that they can. I am getting close to having them both ready for some fun times. This will be something enjoyable we can fool around with in our free time.
The most exciting thing that has happened is that I got a job for next year. I am now a 5th grade teacher at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Colton Joint Unified School District. Yeah, a whole lot of words, but I'm not complaining. I started substituting at this school during the time that the teachers were going to strike (they never did because WE got the money they wanted). The principal is friends with our friend/mentor who did our pre-marriage counseling. A great thing is that the she and a handfull of other teachers at the school are believers. It seems like I am going to have a healthy support team that can guide me through my first year in my own classroom. I am a little nervous about the year, but I am way excited too! The school is year-round, so I have November, March, and July off. Many teachers have told me that they love the year round system. I hope that I do too.
To sum it up, God is continuing to bless Brittany and I. We are so grateful for everything that He has done. I don't know exactly why he chooses to do so many things for us, but I am going to do my best to live in a manner worthy of the Gospel so that others may know Him. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts. I will do my best to keep you all informed as things unfold.
Here are some things that have happened over the past month and a half:
I got a long term sub job for the end of this school year
I bought two pocket bikes (baby motorcycles)
I got hired for next year
We have been spending a lot of time with our friends
I don't think that I mentioned the long term sub earlier, but I am done now. School got out June 21. It was a very helpful experience and I was able to inherit a bunch of 5th grade materials.
Through my usual browsing of Craigslist, I saw a posting of two pocket bikes for $50. It's my birthday this month, so I figured that I would spend some of that money early on this good deal. The bikes weren't working at the time I bought them, but I have put a little more money and TLC so that they can. I am getting close to having them both ready for some fun times. This will be something enjoyable we can fool around with in our free time.
The most exciting thing that has happened is that I got a job for next year. I am now a 5th grade teacher at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Colton Joint Unified School District. Yeah, a whole lot of words, but I'm not complaining. I started substituting at this school during the time that the teachers were going to strike (they never did because WE got the money they wanted). The principal is friends with our friend/mentor who did our pre-marriage counseling. A great thing is that the she and a handfull of other teachers at the school are believers. It seems like I am going to have a healthy support team that can guide me through my first year in my own classroom. I am a little nervous about the year, but I am way excited too! The school is year-round, so I have November, March, and July off. Many teachers have told me that they love the year round system. I hope that I do too.
To sum it up, God is continuing to bless Brittany and I. We are so grateful for everything that He has done. I don't know exactly why he chooses to do so many things for us, but I am going to do my best to live in a manner worthy of the Gospel so that others may know Him. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts. I will do my best to keep you all informed as things unfold.
Tuesday, May 22
Baby Shower
I think that I attented my first baby shower last Saturday. I know what you're thinking...Tim went to a baby shower? That's pretty much what I thought when I was invited, however it was for my buddy and his wife so I decided to go. It turned out to be a fun event and I didn't feel out of place at all. All of us guys got to play a fun little game. I'll let you see the pics and decipher it for yourself.
real men paint their toes
the pregnant man in action
2 minutes later
As you can see, it was a fun event. I won some candles and a picture frame with little Skyler Ray Callister in it. I won't be talking trash about baby showers any more, so if anyone's having one soon, let me know. haha
real men paint their toes
the pregnant man in action
2 minutes later
As you can see, it was a fun event. I won some candles and a picture frame with little Skyler Ray Callister in it. I won't be talking trash about baby showers any more, so if anyone's having one soon, let me know. haha
Saturday, May 19
The Move
Since I have been done with school, Brittany and I have been looking for a new place to live. Our apartment on campus worked for a while, but we were ready to be out of CBU and have a place that truly felt like our own. We searched and searched, trying to find a good place for a good deal. Over time we began to see which places might work and which ones we wanted to avoid. As we approached our move out date (May 6), we began to narrow down the places we were interested in. We eventually decided on "The Terrace Apartments." I thought they were fairly new, but I guess they are actually 20-30 years old. They look really nice for being that old.
Our one bedroom apartment had been getting a little cramped, so we decided to go with a two bedroom. Our old place had 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a small walk in closet, and a linen closet in the bathroom. All of this was 600 sq. feet. Our new place has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 large (for an apt) walk in closets, a linen closet in the hallway, a coat closet, some extra storage space above the coat closet, and a storage room on our balcony. The new apt. has 940 sq. feet. Now we can fit all of our things comfortably and organized.
After almost 3 weeks of living here, we are really liking it. I've had to kill a few spiders-and they are legit spiders, not those little guys or daddy longlegs. I wish that I would've taken pictures of these monsters. They look like miniature tarantulas. I found one playing on our blinds in the living room. It was hanging down about a foot and bouncing back and forth in between the blinds. Didn't seem to be doing anything except having a good time. But, Brittany's not a big spider fan so I had to show him who's boss around here. He didn't like that too much and tried to escape. He had his last few moments of freedom and was then pinched by the fingers of fury. lol
I have taken some pictures so that all of you in the blogging world can experience the joy of our new home. Brittany and I got some great deals on our new things, so don't think that we have tons of money.
We found these sweet couches on Craigslist. They are high quality and look practically brand new. We pretty much stole them from the guy.
We also bought a desk from Craigslist for our 2nd bedroom which is now called the office. In our old apt we used a folding table for the computer which was in our dining room. I would much rather have a desk in an office than a folding table in the dining room.
Another great thing about our apartment is the balcony. Our old apt had one, but it was kinda funky looking and all we could see was the main street and a giant tree. Both of which were within 20 yards of us. Now we have a much nicer balcony and view.
So here's a picture of our living room and then kitchen.
Now you know a bit of what what our place is like. Is it nice or do we just think so because its ours. You can be honest, my feelings won't be hurt. :)
Our one bedroom apartment had been getting a little cramped, so we decided to go with a two bedroom. Our old place had 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a small walk in closet, and a linen closet in the bathroom. All of this was 600 sq. feet. Our new place has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 large (for an apt) walk in closets, a linen closet in the hallway, a coat closet, some extra storage space above the coat closet, and a storage room on our balcony. The new apt. has 940 sq. feet. Now we can fit all of our things comfortably and organized.
After almost 3 weeks of living here, we are really liking it. I've had to kill a few spiders-and they are legit spiders, not those little guys or daddy longlegs. I wish that I would've taken pictures of these monsters. They look like miniature tarantulas. I found one playing on our blinds in the living room. It was hanging down about a foot and bouncing back and forth in between the blinds. Didn't seem to be doing anything except having a good time. But, Brittany's not a big spider fan so I had to show him who's boss around here. He didn't like that too much and tried to escape. He had his last few moments of freedom and was then pinched by the fingers of fury. lol
I have taken some pictures so that all of you in the blogging world can experience the joy of our new home. Brittany and I got some great deals on our new things, so don't think that we have tons of money.
We found these sweet couches on Craigslist. They are high quality and look practically brand new. We pretty much stole them from the guy.
We also bought a desk from Craigslist for our 2nd bedroom which is now called the office. In our old apt we used a folding table for the computer which was in our dining room. I would much rather have a desk in an office than a folding table in the dining room.
Another great thing about our apartment is the balcony. Our old apt had one, but it was kinda funky looking and all we could see was the main street and a giant tree. Both of which were within 20 yards of us. Now we have a much nicer balcony and view.
So here's a picture of our living room and then kitchen.
Now you know a bit of what what our place is like. Is it nice or do we just think so because its ours. You can be honest, my feelings won't be hurt. :)
Thursday, May 17
The Story of the Mouth
Sunday May 6 is now a day to remember for me. The incidents that took place have permanent effects and they will forever remind me of my experience on that day. It started out great with Brittany and I attending Sandals and then teaching the Kindergarten class during the second service. After that we rushed off to our apartment and finished some last minute cleaning so that we could move out. We made the place look great and didn't get any fines or damage charges.
Around 6 o'clock we went over to Kevin Callister's inlaw's house. They were having a little get together to see his son and hang out with some friends. We cooked up some chicken, sausages and veggies-then had a great time eating to our hearts desire. Later we got in the hot tub and relaxed for a bit. As the clock approached 9, Britt and I figured it would be time to head home seeing as we both had work the next morning. So she went up to see skyler one last time before we left. Since I was out of the hot tub and now waiting for Britt, I decided to hop around on the trampoline for a little while.
It had been a while since the last time I had been on one. After a couple minutes of boucing around I gathered up the courage to do a flip. So I did the flip and made the whole rotation...plus a little too much. I landed leaning forward at a 45 degree angle or so. Normally the trampoline springs you up, but if you're leaning forward it obviously shoots you forward. This is what I did and my face was propelled right into the metal bar and springs around the edge of the trampoline.
I tumbled off the edge, but my pride and manliness popped me right back up. I even climbed back on the trampoline (oblivious to the blood trail I was leaving). I climbed off the other side when I noticed the moisture in my mouth and felt the missing tooth with my tongue. I then proceeded to the bathroom and shut the door. As if the guys who had just seen me fall were going to stay outside and wait for me to come back out.
Within seconds there was chaos at the house. Looking in the mirror I could see (through all the blood) that I had chipped 3 or 4 of my top teeth, seriously bent my bottom middle two and lost the one next to them. We then began attempting to stop the bleeding with napkins, towels, ice and any other means in the area. After 15 minutes the bleeding started to slow. Meanwhile, there is a search party outside trying to find my tooth in the grass. As I was sitting in the bathroom holding my busted mouth, Brittany is freaking out trying to find out what to do. She called my parents who were able to get ahold of a family friend who is a dentist. We were told that if the tooth is found, I need to stick it back in. STICK IT BACK IN???? YES!
After 45 minutes of searching, and God's grace, the tooth was found. Brittany then kicked everyone out of the bathroom and told me that I had better shove that tooth back in its hole or else. I didn't know what the or else meant, but I knew she was serious. It took me a little while to find the cavity, but eventually I did and began to "place" my tooth back in its home. All I can say is that it wasn't a pleasant experience and I was only able to get it in halfway.
Soon after we left to go to the emergency room. Thankfully we only had to wait for a few minutes before being called in for the first consultation. They took a couple looks at it, took my blood pressure and then had me go back out to the waiting room. At some point Brittany informed me that the tooth needed to be in place all the way or else the tooth would begin to decay or die. So, I went into the bathroom, man'd it up and shoved that tooth back into the hole until I felt/heard a noise and had an excruciating pain/shiver throughout my entire body. I then walked back out to the waiting room feeling proud in my manhood. Pretty funny, seeing that I have 4 chipped teeth, 3 bent ones, a chopped lip and I'm holding a bloody ice pack to my mouth.
Not much later, we get called back into a room and the doc checks me out. He gives me a couple shots in my lip and then begins to stitch me up with 12 stitches-7 on the outside and 5 on the inside. I was trying to ignore it all, so I don't really know how long that process took. He had to pick some metal out of my lip, so that may have prolonged it a little bit. Before leaving we got prescriptions for antibiotics and pain killers. By the time we got home it was almost 2 am.
Regretfully, we were too worked up during the whole event to take any pictures. However I do a few pics of before and after the dentist.
The chipped teeth and stitches
The lip and crooked teeth
A keepsake the trampoline let me have (look on the bottom left side of my mouth)
The new grill
For those of you that prayed for me, thank you. God heard your prayers and has provided much healing. I am blessed to be in the condition I am in. Even though it was an accident, things could have been so much worse. I am thankful to serve a God who takes care of his children.
Around 6 o'clock we went over to Kevin Callister's inlaw's house. They were having a little get together to see his son and hang out with some friends. We cooked up some chicken, sausages and veggies-then had a great time eating to our hearts desire. Later we got in the hot tub and relaxed for a bit. As the clock approached 9, Britt and I figured it would be time to head home seeing as we both had work the next morning. So she went up to see skyler one last time before we left. Since I was out of the hot tub and now waiting for Britt, I decided to hop around on the trampoline for a little while.
It had been a while since the last time I had been on one. After a couple minutes of boucing around I gathered up the courage to do a flip. So I did the flip and made the whole rotation...plus a little too much. I landed leaning forward at a 45 degree angle or so. Normally the trampoline springs you up, but if you're leaning forward it obviously shoots you forward. This is what I did and my face was propelled right into the metal bar and springs around the edge of the trampoline.
I tumbled off the edge, but my pride and manliness popped me right back up. I even climbed back on the trampoline (oblivious to the blood trail I was leaving). I climbed off the other side when I noticed the moisture in my mouth and felt the missing tooth with my tongue. I then proceeded to the bathroom and shut the door. As if the guys who had just seen me fall were going to stay outside and wait for me to come back out.
Within seconds there was chaos at the house. Looking in the mirror I could see (through all the blood) that I had chipped 3 or 4 of my top teeth, seriously bent my bottom middle two and lost the one next to them. We then began attempting to stop the bleeding with napkins, towels, ice and any other means in the area. After 15 minutes the bleeding started to slow. Meanwhile, there is a search party outside trying to find my tooth in the grass. As I was sitting in the bathroom holding my busted mouth, Brittany is freaking out trying to find out what to do. She called my parents who were able to get ahold of a family friend who is a dentist. We were told that if the tooth is found, I need to stick it back in. STICK IT BACK IN???? YES!
After 45 minutes of searching, and God's grace, the tooth was found. Brittany then kicked everyone out of the bathroom and told me that I had better shove that tooth back in its hole or else. I didn't know what the or else meant, but I knew she was serious. It took me a little while to find the cavity, but eventually I did and began to "place" my tooth back in its home. All I can say is that it wasn't a pleasant experience and I was only able to get it in halfway.
Soon after we left to go to the emergency room. Thankfully we only had to wait for a few minutes before being called in for the first consultation. They took a couple looks at it, took my blood pressure and then had me go back out to the waiting room. At some point Brittany informed me that the tooth needed to be in place all the way or else the tooth would begin to decay or die. So, I went into the bathroom, man'd it up and shoved that tooth back into the hole until I felt/heard a noise and had an excruciating pain/shiver throughout my entire body. I then walked back out to the waiting room feeling proud in my manhood. Pretty funny, seeing that I have 4 chipped teeth, 3 bent ones, a chopped lip and I'm holding a bloody ice pack to my mouth.
Not much later, we get called back into a room and the doc checks me out. He gives me a couple shots in my lip and then begins to stitch me up with 12 stitches-7 on the outside and 5 on the inside. I was trying to ignore it all, so I don't really know how long that process took. He had to pick some metal out of my lip, so that may have prolonged it a little bit. Before leaving we got prescriptions for antibiotics and pain killers. By the time we got home it was almost 2 am.
Regretfully, we were too worked up during the whole event to take any pictures. However I do a few pics of before and after the dentist.
The chipped teeth and stitches
The lip and crooked teeth
A keepsake the trampoline let me have (look on the bottom left side of my mouth)
The new grill
For those of you that prayed for me, thank you. God heard your prayers and has provided much healing. I am blessed to be in the condition I am in. Even though it was an accident, things could have been so much worse. I am thankful to serve a God who takes care of his children.
Thursday, May 10
Catching Up To Do
For those of you that check my blog on a regular or semi-regular basis- I'm sorry. I haven't been posting lately because there is a lot going on in my life and I haven't had the time to sit in front of a computer. Soon, I will blog on all of the things that have been happening. Brittany and I will have internet in our apartment as of Tuesday. I will then be able to blog regularly.
Until I am able to give you full details, I will just list some of the things that have taken place in the past month or so.
Josh and Liz came down to visit, so we got to hang with our best friends.
Jim & Linda (Brittany's parents) came down and spent a few days with us.
We moved (blog and pictures to come).
I split my lip open and busted my teeth (blog and pictures to come). Ok, I have to show you this picture so that you want to know more. (scroll down)
Well, there's a little bit to tide you over until I have more time. Hope you're ready for it all. lol
Until I am able to give you full details, I will just list some of the things that have taken place in the past month or so.
Josh and Liz came down to visit, so we got to hang with our best friends.
Jim & Linda (Brittany's parents) came down and spent a few days with us.
We moved (blog and pictures to come).
I split my lip open and busted my teeth (blog and pictures to come). Ok, I have to show you this picture so that you want to know more. (scroll down)
Well, there's a little bit to tide you over until I have more time. Hope you're ready for it all. lol
Monday, April 23
Love and Respect
I am now reading a book called "Love and Respect" by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. It is about marriage and the relationship between a man and a woman. If you are married and have not read the book, I would highly suggest it. If you are not married, but are in a dating relationship, I would still recommend it. If you are not in a relationship, but are confused about communicating with the opposite sex, you can learn a lot through this book. I have only read a few chapters so far, but the concept of the book has been made clear to me. I would like to share part of the introduction with you. Maybe it will spark some interest or teach you something new.
I wrote this book out of desperation that was turned into inspiration. As a pastor, I counseled married couples and could not solve their problems. The mjor problem I heard from wives was, "He doesn't love me." Wives are made to love, want to love, and expect love. Many husbands fail to deliver. But as I kept studying Scripture and counseling couples, I finally saw the other half of the equation. Husbands weren't saying it much, but they were thinking, She doesn't respect me. Husbands are made to be respected, want respect, and expect respect. Many wives fail to deliver. The result is that five out of ten marriages land in divorce court (and that includes evangelical Christians).
As I wrestled with the problem, I finally saw a connection: without love from him, she reacts without respect; without respect from her, he reacts without love. Around and around it goes. I call it the Crazy Cycle- marital craziness that has thousands of couples in its grip.
How does that concept sound? Ephesians 5:33 says "Each one of you must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." This is why Dr. Eggerichs has written the book. Everyone knows about love and that we are commanded to do so (that doesn't mean it's easy). However, not many books, counselors, or couples deal with the topic of respect. In my mind the whole idea makes complete sense. If I show my love to Brittany, she will act in a way that shows her respect for me. That respect makes me show my love more which in turn sparks more respect from her. This is the cycle that I hope to maintain in my marriage. I pray that you will do the same.
I wrote this book out of desperation that was turned into inspiration. As a pastor, I counseled married couples and could not solve their problems. The mjor problem I heard from wives was, "He doesn't love me." Wives are made to love, want to love, and expect love. Many husbands fail to deliver. But as I kept studying Scripture and counseling couples, I finally saw the other half of the equation. Husbands weren't saying it much, but they were thinking, She doesn't respect me. Husbands are made to be respected, want respect, and expect respect. Many wives fail to deliver. The result is that five out of ten marriages land in divorce court (and that includes evangelical Christians).
As I wrestled with the problem, I finally saw a connection: without love from him, she reacts without respect; without respect from her, he reacts without love. Around and around it goes. I call it the Crazy Cycle- marital craziness that has thousands of couples in its grip.
How does that concept sound? Ephesians 5:33 says "Each one of you must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." This is why Dr. Eggerichs has written the book. Everyone knows about love and that we are commanded to do so (that doesn't mean it's easy). However, not many books, counselors, or couples deal with the topic of respect. In my mind the whole idea makes complete sense. If I show my love to Brittany, she will act in a way that shows her respect for me. That respect makes me show my love more which in turn sparks more respect from her. This is the cycle that I hope to maintain in my marriage. I pray that you will do the same.
Sunday, April 8
Anyway
People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered.
Love Them Anyway
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do Good Anyway
If you are successful, you win false and true enemies.
Succeed Anyway
The good you do will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do Good Anyway
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be Honest and Frank Anyway
What you spent years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build Anyway
People really need help but may attack you if you help them.
Help People Anyway
Give the world the best you have and you'll be kicked in the teeth.
Give The World The Best You've Got Anyway!
Meditations From a Simple Path
by Mother Teresa
What would the world look like if we lived like this? Why don't we find out!
Love Them Anyway
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do Good Anyway
If you are successful, you win false and true enemies.
Succeed Anyway
The good you do will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do Good Anyway
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be Honest and Frank Anyway
What you spent years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build Anyway
People really need help but may attack you if you help them.
Help People Anyway
Give the world the best you have and you'll be kicked in the teeth.
Give The World The Best You've Got Anyway!
Meditations From a Simple Path
by Mother Teresa
What would the world look like if we lived like this? Why don't we find out!
Monday, April 2
Marks of the Spirit's Fullness
And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name or our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:18-21
I believe that this passage shows us four marks of the Spirit's fullness. These are seen in relationships. The Spirit's fullness involves not a private, mystical experience so much as our relationship with God and those around us.
The first is "addressing one another". It surprised me that the first evidence of being filled with the Spirit is that we speak to each other. However, it made a little more sense after remembering that the first fruit of the Spirit is love. No matter how deep or intimate our relationship with God may seem, we cannot claim the fullness of the Spirit if we are not on speaking terms with any of our brothers or sisters. So, basically the first sign of fullness seems to be fellowship. It is a spiritual fellowship, not just a chit-chat, but "in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs".
The second result of the Spirit's fullness is "singing and making melody" to the Lord. Many times the passage is translated to say 'in your heart'. This leads some unmusical people to believe that they their joy may be entirely inward because it is intended only for the ears of the Lord. But I don't think that seems to be the correct translation. The translation listed shows that the heart indicates not so much the place, but the manner in which we are to sing.
Thirdly, we are to be "always and for everything giving thanks." Most of us give thanks for some things, but scripture says that Spirit filled believers give thanks always for all things. It seems that there is no time at which, and no circumstance for which they do not give thanks. Paul urges us not to silent, but to heartfelt worship. Grumbling was one of Israel’s biggest problems and was a serious one because it is a symptom of unbelief. Whenever we start moaning and groaning, it goes to show that we are not filled with the Spirit. When believers are filled with the Spirit, they thank God for all things at all times.
The fourth mark of being Spirit filled is to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Although Paul goes on to show that submission is the duty of a wife to her husband, children to their parents, and servants to their masters, he begins by making it the duty of all Christians to each other. Self-submission, not assertion is the mark of the Spirit filled Christian. Sometimes, it is true, when a fundamental theological or moral principle is at stake, we must not give way. Paul gave an outstanding example of this when he opposed Peter in a direct and public confrontation at Antioch (Gal. 2:11-14). The test is in the last words of the sentence: “out of reverence for Christ”. Our first duty is reverent and humble submission to the Lord. We should submit to others right up to the point where our submission to them would mean disloyalty to Christ.
The results of the fullness of the Spirit seemed to be laid out for us. The spirit is made manifest through worship and fellowship. If we are filled with the Spirit, we will be praising Christ and thanking our father, and we will be speaking and submitting to one another. It is in these spiritual qualities, not in some supernatural phenomena, that we should look for evidences of the Spirit’s fullness. I believe this is Paul’s emphasis when he is dealing with the subject in his Ephesian and Corinthian letters, and also when he outlines the fruits of the spirit in Galatians.
After diving into this bit of scripture, have your views or opinions about the fullness of the Spirit changed? Does this seem to have more of a practical application? Why is there sometimes such a huge difference between knowing what to do and actually living it? I pray that we will figure out the problem and solve it as best we can.
Ephesians 5:18-21
I believe that this passage shows us four marks of the Spirit's fullness. These are seen in relationships. The Spirit's fullness involves not a private, mystical experience so much as our relationship with God and those around us.
The first is "addressing one another". It surprised me that the first evidence of being filled with the Spirit is that we speak to each other. However, it made a little more sense after remembering that the first fruit of the Spirit is love. No matter how deep or intimate our relationship with God may seem, we cannot claim the fullness of the Spirit if we are not on speaking terms with any of our brothers or sisters. So, basically the first sign of fullness seems to be fellowship. It is a spiritual fellowship, not just a chit-chat, but "in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs".
The second result of the Spirit's fullness is "singing and making melody" to the Lord. Many times the passage is translated to say 'in your heart'. This leads some unmusical people to believe that they their joy may be entirely inward because it is intended only for the ears of the Lord. But I don't think that seems to be the correct translation. The translation listed shows that the heart indicates not so much the place, but the manner in which we are to sing.
Thirdly, we are to be "always and for everything giving thanks." Most of us give thanks for some things, but scripture says that Spirit filled believers give thanks always for all things. It seems that there is no time at which, and no circumstance for which they do not give thanks. Paul urges us not to silent, but to heartfelt worship. Grumbling was one of Israel’s biggest problems and was a serious one because it is a symptom of unbelief. Whenever we start moaning and groaning, it goes to show that we are not filled with the Spirit. When believers are filled with the Spirit, they thank God for all things at all times.
The fourth mark of being Spirit filled is to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Although Paul goes on to show that submission is the duty of a wife to her husband, children to their parents, and servants to their masters, he begins by making it the duty of all Christians to each other. Self-submission, not assertion is the mark of the Spirit filled Christian. Sometimes, it is true, when a fundamental theological or moral principle is at stake, we must not give way. Paul gave an outstanding example of this when he opposed Peter in a direct and public confrontation at Antioch (Gal. 2:11-14). The test is in the last words of the sentence: “out of reverence for Christ”. Our first duty is reverent and humble submission to the Lord. We should submit to others right up to the point where our submission to them would mean disloyalty to Christ.
The results of the fullness of the Spirit seemed to be laid out for us. The spirit is made manifest through worship and fellowship. If we are filled with the Spirit, we will be praising Christ and thanking our father, and we will be speaking and submitting to one another. It is in these spiritual qualities, not in some supernatural phenomena, that we should look for evidences of the Spirit’s fullness. I believe this is Paul’s emphasis when he is dealing with the subject in his Ephesian and Corinthian letters, and also when he outlines the fruits of the spirit in Galatians.
After diving into this bit of scripture, have your views or opinions about the fullness of the Spirit changed? Does this seem to have more of a practical application? Why is there sometimes such a huge difference between knowing what to do and actually living it? I pray that we will figure out the problem and solve it as best we can.
Friday, March 30
A Biblical Case for Christian Unity
Based on some comments that were made previously on my blog, I wanted to post this Bible study by Lester Zimmerman and Mark Ammerman. Would you agree that anyone mocking authentic Christian unity is mocking Jesus?
JESUS’ HEART FOR UNITY
—The prayer of Jesus in John 17:20–23
Jesus knew what was in the heart of man. He knew that in ourselves we fight for position, for place, for advantage over each other—in order to see, to taste, to have, to hold and to control. We fight—and we even kill—because we want what we want when we want it.
Even among Jesus’ own followers, the pride of position and the desire for selfish gain raised its head constantly. Jesus rebuked his men for sectarianism (Luke 9:49–50), corrected them for clambering for position (Mark 10:35–45), and consistently addressed their need to humble themselves (Luke 9:46–48).
Only hours before praying the words recorded above, Jesus addressed the prideful boastings of his followers by stripping down to the underclothes of a common house servant in order to wash the disciples feet in a dramatic example of humility and servanthood (John 13:1–17).
On the same night, one of his hand-picked men slipped away into the shadows in order to betray him to the Jewish authorities (John 13:21–30). That betrayal—as Jesus knew and had openly predicted—would lead swiftly to his arrest, his trial, and his death upon a Roman cross. Yes, Jesus knew what was in the heart of man.
In sharp contrast to the darkened, selfish human heart, we can feel the compassionate heartbeat of God in this prayer of Jesus for his followers. We can hear the consummate concern of the savior for the well-being of those who would come to trust Him for the forgiveness of their sins. Sadly, Jesus could also foresee the broken relationships, divisions, mistrust and even hatred that would manifest itself among those for whom he would lay down his life. And so he prayed for unity.
(read the rest here )
After you read the rest of their article, come back here and tell me what you think.
JESUS’ HEART FOR UNITY
—The prayer of Jesus in John 17:20–23
Jesus knew what was in the heart of man. He knew that in ourselves we fight for position, for place, for advantage over each other—in order to see, to taste, to have, to hold and to control. We fight—and we even kill—because we want what we want when we want it.
Even among Jesus’ own followers, the pride of position and the desire for selfish gain raised its head constantly. Jesus rebuked his men for sectarianism (Luke 9:49–50), corrected them for clambering for position (Mark 10:35–45), and consistently addressed their need to humble themselves (Luke 9:46–48).
Only hours before praying the words recorded above, Jesus addressed the prideful boastings of his followers by stripping down to the underclothes of a common house servant in order to wash the disciples feet in a dramatic example of humility and servanthood (John 13:1–17).
On the same night, one of his hand-picked men slipped away into the shadows in order to betray him to the Jewish authorities (John 13:21–30). That betrayal—as Jesus knew and had openly predicted—would lead swiftly to his arrest, his trial, and his death upon a Roman cross. Yes, Jesus knew what was in the heart of man.
In sharp contrast to the darkened, selfish human heart, we can feel the compassionate heartbeat of God in this prayer of Jesus for his followers. We can hear the consummate concern of the savior for the well-being of those who would come to trust Him for the forgiveness of their sins. Sadly, Jesus could also foresee the broken relationships, divisions, mistrust and even hatred that would manifest itself among those for whom he would lay down his life. And so he prayed for unity.
(read the rest here )
After you read the rest of their article, come back here and tell me what you think.
Monday, March 26
Receiving the Spirit
I have been talking with a friend of mine who is in a small group that happens to be dealing with the book of Acts. Reading through this book makes one think about when the Holy Spirit is received. As we were talking and looking at a few specific passages in Acts, we realized that each seemed to say different things about when one receives the Holy Spirit. So, at a few points in our discussion we had to come to the conclusion that we don't know exactly how to interpret these scriptures on their own. However, my continued reading of "Baptism & Fullness" has helped me to see other scriptures that bring light to the ones in Acts.
Through reading and discussion I hope to solidify my belief that there is no time difference between acccepting Christ and receiving the Spirit. While reading through Acts, I saw that there are three places where the Spirit seems to be given at a later time than when one becomes a Christian. This was very confusing to me, because I have always been taught (and believed through scripture) that the Holy Spirit is received as soon as one accepts Christ.
These passages were 1:15-2:4, 8:9-17, & 19:1-7.
The first passage says there were about 120 "brothers" who received the Spirit--this seemed to be the first time that the Holy Spirit was fully given. They did not seem to receive the Spirit as soon as they accepted Christ, however the 3000 that were saved at the end of the chapter received the Spirit at the time of conversion. Why was there a difference?
The second passage seemed to say that Peter and John were the ones who brought the Holy Spirit through their laying on of hands. When the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John. Why? There is no evidence that on other occasions evangelistic work had to be inspected by two apostles. Does it seem that Philip's preaching and baptism were not complete enough for the Holy Spirit to fill these men? In the same chapter Philip preached the gospel to an Ethiopian eunuch and baptized him when he believed. But no apostle was sent to investigate or to lay hands on him. Why was there a difference?
The third passage I noted is confusing because these men are called disciples, yet they "have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." Were they Christians before Paul layed hands on them and baptized them? Can someone who has never heard of the Holy Spirit or been baptized in Jesus be a true Christian disciple? I find that hard to believe. They may have been disciples of Apollos or John the Baptist, but not of Jesus.
What do you take from all this? When do we receive the Holy Spirit? Why do these instances seem to contradict? Is there other scripture we can use to help us better understand the receiving of the Holy Spirit?
As a Christian I believe that Scripture is God's word written for our learning. All our traditions, all our opinions and all our experiences must therefore be submitted to the independent and objective test of biblical truth.
Through reading and discussion I hope to solidify my belief that there is no time difference between acccepting Christ and receiving the Spirit. While reading through Acts, I saw that there are three places where the Spirit seems to be given at a later time than when one becomes a Christian. This was very confusing to me, because I have always been taught (and believed through scripture) that the Holy Spirit is received as soon as one accepts Christ.
These passages were 1:15-2:4, 8:9-17, & 19:1-7.
The first passage says there were about 120 "brothers" who received the Spirit--this seemed to be the first time that the Holy Spirit was fully given. They did not seem to receive the Spirit as soon as they accepted Christ, however the 3000 that were saved at the end of the chapter received the Spirit at the time of conversion. Why was there a difference?
The second passage seemed to say that Peter and John were the ones who brought the Holy Spirit through their laying on of hands. When the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John. Why? There is no evidence that on other occasions evangelistic work had to be inspected by two apostles. Does it seem that Philip's preaching and baptism were not complete enough for the Holy Spirit to fill these men? In the same chapter Philip preached the gospel to an Ethiopian eunuch and baptized him when he believed. But no apostle was sent to investigate or to lay hands on him. Why was there a difference?
The third passage I noted is confusing because these men are called disciples, yet they "have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." Were they Christians before Paul layed hands on them and baptized them? Can someone who has never heard of the Holy Spirit or been baptized in Jesus be a true Christian disciple? I find that hard to believe. They may have been disciples of Apollos or John the Baptist, but not of Jesus.
What do you take from all this? When do we receive the Holy Spirit? Why do these instances seem to contradict? Is there other scripture we can use to help us better understand the receiving of the Holy Spirit?
As a Christian I believe that Scripture is God's word written for our learning. All our traditions, all our opinions and all our experiences must therefore be submitted to the independent and objective test of biblical truth.
Thursday, March 22
Life in the Spirit
I have been reading an older book called "Baptism & Fullness" by John R. W. Stott. It is about the work of the Holy Spirit. I am really enjoying what I am reading. While reading, I am doing my best to take principles from the book (which are basically scripture) and apply them in my life.
Over the next few weeks I will probably be blogging about some of these principles that I am learning. Before I do that, I would love to hear some opinions from my readers. (lol, what readers?) What does it mean to live in the Spirit? What does this life look like? Can you tell if someone is living in the Spirit? Do you think that someone can be filled with the Spirit at one point and empty at another?
I hope that these questions stir up thoughts in your mind and make you analyze what you believe and why. I want to hear your opinions, but I would love it if you use scripture to support those opinions. Feel free to comment as little or as much as you would like.
Over the next few weeks I will probably be blogging about some of these principles that I am learning. Before I do that, I would love to hear some opinions from my readers. (lol, what readers?) What does it mean to live in the Spirit? What does this life look like? Can you tell if someone is living in the Spirit? Do you think that someone can be filled with the Spirit at one point and empty at another?
I hope that these questions stir up thoughts in your mind and make you analyze what you believe and why. I want to hear your opinions, but I would love it if you use scripture to support those opinions. Feel free to comment as little or as much as you would like.
Tuesday, March 20
Playoffs Around the Corner
Somehow my intramural basketball team managed to go undefeated this season. We only played seven games, but we won all of them. This means that we'll get a good seed going into playoffs. There were 18 teams overall and playoffs cuts it down to eight. There is only one other team that is undefeated. I think they played eight games, so they'll probably take the first seed. Therefore we'll probably play the seventh place team. The season games weren't too difficult, but the playoff games sure will be. Just about every team in playoffs has a decent team. Some look better than others, but any team could upset another any given night. I'm excited to see how the games go. I would love to win the championship, but that's not why I play.
I hope that my athletic abilities and competition bring glory to God. I think that I've had a good attitude so far, but playoffs tend to bring out the worst in people. I pray that I'll be able to stay positive and uplifting through those times. Even though it's just a game, I want to reflect Christ in it. I have been called to do everything for the Lord (Col 3:17) and I will do my best at it. If I act or speak in any way unworthy of the gospel, please call me out and correct me. That is what a true brother (or sister) should do. Lord willing you won't need to though.
I hope that my athletic abilities and competition bring glory to God. I think that I've had a good attitude so far, but playoffs tend to bring out the worst in people. I pray that I'll be able to stay positive and uplifting through those times. Even though it's just a game, I want to reflect Christ in it. I have been called to do everything for the Lord (Col 3:17) and I will do my best at it. If I act or speak in any way unworthy of the gospel, please call me out and correct me. That is what a true brother (or sister) should do. Lord willing you won't need to though.
Wednesday, March 14
I Can See The Light
Over the past few months I have been substitute teaching while finishing up the nagging tasks for my credential. I have been done with all of the official school stuff since December, but there were 3 projects that I had to do. I also needed to become CPR and first aid certified.
Wel...I recently received the my PASSING results for these projects and as of tomorrow I will have my CPR/First Aid certification. I went into the education office today at CBU and made an appointment to file for my credential on Monday. This is supposed to take a week or two. So, I should be a fully credentialed teacher by the end of the month. In the past week I have already set up two interviews with a couple districts in the area. I plan to turn in a few other applications once my credential comes in.
These thoughts brings me so much joy. Throughout this credentialing process I have been very frustrated. It hasn't been the most pleasant experience and I had to deal with many things I wasn't expecting. However, I have grown through these tough times and I know that they have given me some extra preparation for what is to come.
God has been so good to me and blessed me beyond imagination. I love it when things are going great and my life is blessed, but I don't understand why? Why would God give me all of things? Why does He provide beyond my needs and give me things that I just want? I know that He has his reasons, but I ask- why me? I hope that I will be responsible with my blessings. I hope that I will use my gifts for His glory instead of my own. I hope that I will not forget my need for Christ because of all that he has given. Please pray that I will not use all these blessings on myself. Pray that I will use what God has given me to earn even more for his kingdom.
Has God blessed you too? I'm pretty sure he has. Tell me about it. I would love to see all of the different ways he cares for his children.
God, thank you for your blessings and provision. May we glorify you through that which you give.
Wel...I recently received the my PASSING results for these projects and as of tomorrow I will have my CPR/First Aid certification. I went into the education office today at CBU and made an appointment to file for my credential on Monday. This is supposed to take a week or two. So, I should be a fully credentialed teacher by the end of the month. In the past week I have already set up two interviews with a couple districts in the area. I plan to turn in a few other applications once my credential comes in.
These thoughts brings me so much joy. Throughout this credentialing process I have been very frustrated. It hasn't been the most pleasant experience and I had to deal with many things I wasn't expecting. However, I have grown through these tough times and I know that they have given me some extra preparation for what is to come.
God has been so good to me and blessed me beyond imagination. I love it when things are going great and my life is blessed, but I don't understand why? Why would God give me all of things? Why does He provide beyond my needs and give me things that I just want? I know that He has his reasons, but I ask- why me? I hope that I will be responsible with my blessings. I hope that I will use my gifts for His glory instead of my own. I hope that I will not forget my need for Christ because of all that he has given. Please pray that I will not use all these blessings on myself. Pray that I will use what God has given me to earn even more for his kingdom.
Has God blessed you too? I'm pretty sure he has. Tell me about it. I would love to see all of the different ways he cares for his children.
God, thank you for your blessings and provision. May we glorify you through that which you give.
Monday, March 5
So Others May Live
As I was saying in the previous post(feel free to read that one first) Brittany and I watched the movie Guardian. It is Kevin Costner and Ashton however you spell his last name. I believe that the movie was partially created as a result to Katrina, but it is about the US Coast Guard. After watching the movie I have a newfound respect for them. I know what the Coast Guard is, but I always thought they were more about enforcing laws than saving lives. If you haven't seen the movie, you definately need to rent it...better yet buy it. I am going to.
The Coast Guard's motto is "So Others May Live." It is a great motto and I can't help but relate it to Christianity. As Christians we are to spread the good news so others may live. I am supposed to live in a manner that is worthy of the gospel. If I am not proclaiming my faith and sharing Jesus with those around me, how am I being obedient? If I had something that others couldn't live without, why would I keep it to myself? Because I'm selfish? Am I ashamed? Do I really care about those around me?
I have a hard time figuring out why faith isn't being shared in every conversation. I'm not talking about banging people on the head with the bible, but I want people to know what I believe and why I believe it. Then they can decide what they want to do. However, what if I don't share Jesus with them and their other Christian friends do the same? Then they won't be able to make an educated decision about what to believe.
Let's challenge ourselves to have the same motto as the US Coast Guard. If we truly want others to spend eternity with us, then we need to be sharing our faith. Please pray that I will be bold and courageous in spreading the name of Jesus.
The Coast Guard's motto is "So Others May Live." It is a great motto and I can't help but relate it to Christianity. As Christians we are to spread the good news so others may live. I am supposed to live in a manner that is worthy of the gospel. If I am not proclaiming my faith and sharing Jesus with those around me, how am I being obedient? If I had something that others couldn't live without, why would I keep it to myself? Because I'm selfish? Am I ashamed? Do I really care about those around me?
I have a hard time figuring out why faith isn't being shared in every conversation. I'm not talking about banging people on the head with the bible, but I want people to know what I believe and why I believe it. Then they can decide what they want to do. However, what if I don't share Jesus with them and their other Christian friends do the same? Then they won't be able to make an educated decision about what to believe.
Let's challenge ourselves to have the same motto as the US Coast Guard. If we truly want others to spend eternity with us, then we need to be sharing our faith. Please pray that I will be bold and courageous in spreading the name of Jesus.
Netflix
Brittany and I received a year's subscription to Netflix as a wedding gift. We have been using it for about 6 months now and absolutely love it. We really enjoy having new movies to watch just about every time we want them, and many times more often than we have time for. Over the past month, our "movie time" has dwindled. It seems that we have been too busy with other things to have time for a movie. It's a bummer, because we love pulling out the hide-a-bed, making some popcorn and cuddling up for a good movie. Saturday, we made some time and managed to watch two movies that we've had for a few days. We did stay up til 2 in the morning watching one, but we made it.
The movies we watched were Crank and Guardian. Well, I can't say that we watched Crank because I had to cover my eyes or skip to the next scene about 20 times in the movie. If you have not seen it, do not even think about it. The fighting/action is not even close to being worth all of the junk that is in the movie.
Now, Guardian is one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. I am actually going to write another post just on it. So...read above if you haven't already.
The movies we watched were Crank and Guardian. Well, I can't say that we watched Crank because I had to cover my eyes or skip to the next scene about 20 times in the movie. If you have not seen it, do not even think about it. The fighting/action is not even close to being worth all of the junk that is in the movie.
Now, Guardian is one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. I am actually going to write another post just on it. So...read above if you haven't already.
Thursday, March 1
God is Good
If you haven't read the previous post, read that one first. Otherwise, you may continue. I didn't get to post this yesterday because I was busy working on another task to complete my credential.
Middle school teachers have 5 periods and one conference period. My conference period happened to be right after lunch. Because of this, my lunch break was almost an hour and a half. I definately needed it after all of the chaos from the morning. During this time was when I blogged about the day and my feelings. I also spent some time praying and contemplating on my feelings. I was doing my best to keep a good attitude and have a good 6th period to end the day.
The role sheet only showed 15 students and when they came in I discovered that almost all of them were in my class 2nd period (which was the best class so far). This made me very happy. There were some boys who thought they were cool, but I had fun joking around with them. They weren't the best students, but they weren't too bad either. So, the bell rings and some of the students ask if they are supposed to put up their chairs. In return, I ask if they normally do. They said yes, which I replied right back to them. However, the "cool" boys were darting out of the classroom and I didn't want to run after them so they did not put their chairs up.
As I began collecting the textbooks, which the students left strewn across the desks, a boy and girl began to put up all the chairs. Now, this may not seem like anything huge, but it seriously almost brought tears to my eyes. After all that had gone on in the day, God decided to bless me with a bit of joy. I told the students thank you and they replied "anytime". Once again, I almost cried. It's funny how something so small can encourage me so much, but it did. I thank God for those moments and was reminded of His promise that He will not give us more than we can handle. I really needed that pick me up after the grueling day.
Middle school teachers have 5 periods and one conference period. My conference period happened to be right after lunch. Because of this, my lunch break was almost an hour and a half. I definately needed it after all of the chaos from the morning. During this time was when I blogged about the day and my feelings. I also spent some time praying and contemplating on my feelings. I was doing my best to keep a good attitude and have a good 6th period to end the day.
The role sheet only showed 15 students and when they came in I discovered that almost all of them were in my class 2nd period (which was the best class so far). This made me very happy. There were some boys who thought they were cool, but I had fun joking around with them. They weren't the best students, but they weren't too bad either. So, the bell rings and some of the students ask if they are supposed to put up their chairs. In return, I ask if they normally do. They said yes, which I replied right back to them. However, the "cool" boys were darting out of the classroom and I didn't want to run after them so they did not put their chairs up.
As I began collecting the textbooks, which the students left strewn across the desks, a boy and girl began to put up all the chairs. Now, this may not seem like anything huge, but it seriously almost brought tears to my eyes. After all that had gone on in the day, God decided to bless me with a bit of joy. I told the students thank you and they replied "anytime". Once again, I almost cried. It's funny how something so small can encourage me so much, but it did. I thank God for those moments and was reminded of His promise that He will not give us more than we can handle. I really needed that pick me up after the grueling day.
Wednesday, February 28
Being a Sub isn't always great
Substitute teaching definately has is benefits, but there are also many things that stink about it. Today I am witness to both, but for some reason the stinky things stand are the ones making the most impact.
I'm teaching at a middle school here in Riverside. I have a seventh grade language arts class. Wednesdays are planning days, so each period only lasts 35 minutes and I am done at 1:05. Despite the fact that it's so short, I am still miserable. I don't know if the classes are bad because they just are or if it is because their teacher isn't a good one. The period that just left was filled with 33 students that seemed like they belong in the zoo. There were only two small assignments for them to complete, but somehow this was still too much. They were so loud that I coudn't even be heard by everyone when yelling. It was hopeless. I finally got half of the class under control and started working with them. After a few minutes the other half quited down just enough so that they could hear. They didn't stop talking by any means, just calmed down a little. I really don't know what I can do in these types of situations. I didn't feel like writing referrals for half of the class. Maybe I should next time.
These are the kinds of days that make me question why I want to teach. Having students like these depress me. They make me realize how much work it takes to be a teacher. I don't know what happened along the road that made each student this way, but I wonder if it can be reversed. I wonder if these students can ever change. The only thing that I can do is pray. I am making it a habit to pray for the students that I come in contact with. I will pray for their attitudes, for their goals and dreams, for their family lives and for their education. I have learned that on my own I can't do anything. Why are these students going to listen to or respect a substitute that will be with them for half an hour? My time will be spent wisely by praying for these students. I will maintain a positive attitude even when I feel like doing or saying something I shouldn't.
It is my prayer that God would use me during this stage of my life to be a witness to those I come in contact with-even if only for half an hour. I want to make an eternal impact, but in order to do that I must die to myself. Please pray that I will be able to do that.
I'm teaching at a middle school here in Riverside. I have a seventh grade language arts class. Wednesdays are planning days, so each period only lasts 35 minutes and I am done at 1:05. Despite the fact that it's so short, I am still miserable. I don't know if the classes are bad because they just are or if it is because their teacher isn't a good one. The period that just left was filled with 33 students that seemed like they belong in the zoo. There were only two small assignments for them to complete, but somehow this was still too much. They were so loud that I coudn't even be heard by everyone when yelling. It was hopeless. I finally got half of the class under control and started working with them. After a few minutes the other half quited down just enough so that they could hear. They didn't stop talking by any means, just calmed down a little. I really don't know what I can do in these types of situations. I didn't feel like writing referrals for half of the class. Maybe I should next time.
These are the kinds of days that make me question why I want to teach. Having students like these depress me. They make me realize how much work it takes to be a teacher. I don't know what happened along the road that made each student this way, but I wonder if it can be reversed. I wonder if these students can ever change. The only thing that I can do is pray. I am making it a habit to pray for the students that I come in contact with. I will pray for their attitudes, for their goals and dreams, for their family lives and for their education. I have learned that on my own I can't do anything. Why are these students going to listen to or respect a substitute that will be with them for half an hour? My time will be spent wisely by praying for these students. I will maintain a positive attitude even when I feel like doing or saying something I shouldn't.
It is my prayer that God would use me during this stage of my life to be a witness to those I come in contact with-even if only for half an hour. I want to make an eternal impact, but in order to do that I must die to myself. Please pray that I will be able to do that.
Tuesday, February 27
Over Seven Months of Marriage
As of last thursday, I have been married for seven months. They have been some of the greatest in my life. I have learned so much about marriage and through my marriage.
I have heard many say that the first year of marriage is the hardest. If that is true, then I have some amazing years ahead of me. I realize we haven't hit the year marker yet, but 7 months have flown by with barely a sign of conflict. I am not saying that marriage is a piece of cake, but if you work in the right areas it will be a joy instead of a hastle. I believe that Brittany and I were well prepared for marriage. We did not rush into it or make a committment that we were not ready for.
I am so grateful for all of the people that encouraged us and helped us in our development. We have been dating for over 3 years, and there have been many people with us throughout the whole time. Thank you for your support. There were also people who made it hard for our relationship to work. I thank you for preparing us for life.
The most important reason why our marriage is succeeding is because it is founded on God. he is ultimately why we can love each other and serve each other. Brittany is amazing, but without the grace of God, I could not overcome my selfishness in order to love her.
I am excited to live the rest of my life with Brittany. Who knows how much more we'll learn.
I have heard many say that the first year of marriage is the hardest. If that is true, then I have some amazing years ahead of me. I realize we haven't hit the year marker yet, but 7 months have flown by with barely a sign of conflict. I am not saying that marriage is a piece of cake, but if you work in the right areas it will be a joy instead of a hastle. I believe that Brittany and I were well prepared for marriage. We did not rush into it or make a committment that we were not ready for.
I am so grateful for all of the people that encouraged us and helped us in our development. We have been dating for over 3 years, and there have been many people with us throughout the whole time. Thank you for your support. There were also people who made it hard for our relationship to work. I thank you for preparing us for life.
The most important reason why our marriage is succeeding is because it is founded on God. he is ultimately why we can love each other and serve each other. Brittany is amazing, but without the grace of God, I could not overcome my selfishness in order to love her.
I am excited to live the rest of my life with Brittany. Who knows how much more we'll learn.
Tuesday, February 20
Intramural Basketball- It's balla time
This week marks the beginning of competitive basketball for the college students who are not on the team. I have always loved playing basketball. Sometimes I wonder if I would have played in high school if it wasn't the same season as soccer. Whatever the case, I always get excited when this time of the year comes around. This year is a little different because I am now a married, working man and I...sorta have a bed time..shhh. It's gonna be hard to play a game at 11:15 and then get up at 6 am so that I can go teach. But you know what, it'll be worth it. I love playing sports and this is just another opportunity for me to hang out with my friends and stay in shape.
Even though I am a competetive sports player, I would much rather have fun than win every game. Many times having fun and winning go hand in hand, but this season I want to concentrate on having a positive attitude no matter what. I want to be one of those players that everyone loves playing with and against. I want to be encouraging, uplifting and also a good competition. I hope that I will keep this attitude throughout every game. It will be tough when people talk trash or get too heated. I will need to be devoted to my goal and stand strong through each trial.
Playing basketball shouldn't be any different than the rest of my life in that I honor God through it. I pray that my actions and attitude would bring glory to Him. Please hold me accountable to that.
Even though I am a competetive sports player, I would much rather have fun than win every game. Many times having fun and winning go hand in hand, but this season I want to concentrate on having a positive attitude no matter what. I want to be one of those players that everyone loves playing with and against. I want to be encouraging, uplifting and also a good competition. I hope that I will keep this attitude throughout every game. It will be tough when people talk trash or get too heated. I will need to be devoted to my goal and stand strong through each trial.
Playing basketball shouldn't be any different than the rest of my life in that I honor God through it. I pray that my actions and attitude would bring glory to Him. Please hold me accountable to that.
Thursday, February 15
To Move or Not to Move
Moving has been a desire of Brittany's and mine for a little while now. We are ready to move out of Cal Baptist after living here for almost 5 years. There isn't really anything to complain about in our current apartment, but we want something new and exciting. For some reason we are just ready to be out of this apartment. So I am going to discuss some reasons to move and some why we shouldn't move. Feel free to give any advice, input or opinions.
Why we should stay
The rent in our apartment is only $675 a month. We probably pay about $23 for our electrical bill. Other than that, we don't pay any other living expenses. Our apartment is gated and we have one covered parking space. The space is fine for the amount of things that we have. There is a small walk in closet that is able to fit our things for the time being.
If we were to move elsewhere, the rent would most likely be atleast $300 more a month. We may also have to pay for more utilities.
Why we should move
We are living in the farthest corner of the school housing. We are on campus, but don't really get the joys of being on campus. Our apartment is beginning to be small for us. We would like to get another couch or loveseat so that we can seat people. Currently we don't really have people over because getting them through the gate is a hastle and we don't have much seating or space. Our closet does not have any more space to store.
Besides being small, there are some other limitations at this apartment. We are still under CBU jurisdiction. That means we have to follow their rules and regulations. We don't have internet, cable, or a phone line. Many times this is inconvenient. Brittany and I would like to get a puppy, but we can't have pets here. Also, we can't have a bbq on our patio. We don't currently own one, but it is something that we would like to have.
If we move, we are thinking about finding a 2 bedroom. With two bedrooms, we would be able to move our computer and desk from out of our dining room and into a separate room. We would also be able to move the bookshelf out from behind the door in our bedroom. Having another room would clear up a lot of junk and make more space for us. Brittany and I enjoy having a neat home and sometimes it is difficult in our current apartment.
As you can see, it is our desire to move. We are still struggling with what to do, but if we move, it probably won't be for atleast a month or two. Our time frame is anywhere from April to August. I would love to hear what you think about our situation. What is best, or what should we do?
Why we should stay
The rent in our apartment is only $675 a month. We probably pay about $23 for our electrical bill. Other than that, we don't pay any other living expenses. Our apartment is gated and we have one covered parking space. The space is fine for the amount of things that we have. There is a small walk in closet that is able to fit our things for the time being.
If we were to move elsewhere, the rent would most likely be atleast $300 more a month. We may also have to pay for more utilities.
Why we should move
We are living in the farthest corner of the school housing. We are on campus, but don't really get the joys of being on campus. Our apartment is beginning to be small for us. We would like to get another couch or loveseat so that we can seat people. Currently we don't really have people over because getting them through the gate is a hastle and we don't have much seating or space. Our closet does not have any more space to store.
Besides being small, there are some other limitations at this apartment. We are still under CBU jurisdiction. That means we have to follow their rules and regulations. We don't have internet, cable, or a phone line. Many times this is inconvenient. Brittany and I would like to get a puppy, but we can't have pets here. Also, we can't have a bbq on our patio. We don't currently own one, but it is something that we would like to have.
If we move, we are thinking about finding a 2 bedroom. With two bedrooms, we would be able to move our computer and desk from out of our dining room and into a separate room. We would also be able to move the bookshelf out from behind the door in our bedroom. Having another room would clear up a lot of junk and make more space for us. Brittany and I enjoy having a neat home and sometimes it is difficult in our current apartment.
As you can see, it is our desire to move. We are still struggling with what to do, but if we move, it probably won't be for atleast a month or two. Our time frame is anywhere from April to August. I would love to hear what you think about our situation. What is best, or what should we do?
Thursday, February 1
Thoughts of a puppy
Brittany and I are looking around for a new place to live. We don't have to move right now, but we are looking around to see if a good deal comes up. One of our possible requirements is to move somewhere that allows pets. We want a puppy! We're not exactly sure what kind yet, but our though is that it will be fun, exciting and a huge responsibility. Basically we think it may be a little prep for children. Not that children are coming soon, but we want to prepare early. We want a dog that we can play with, run with, and cuddle with. Some possibilities are: golden retriever, lab, pointer, dalmation, and a rhodesian ridgeback. Yes, a rhodesian ridgeback. If you don't know what it is, its an athletic dog that's fun to be around. If you have any advice for kinds of dogs, please do tell. We are new to this whole thing and don't fully know the characteristics of each species. Any help would be appreciated.
Tuesday, January 30
Life as a substitute teacher
Since I finished my time of paying to work, I have now moved up 1/2 a notch to a sub. I can make it sound really good if I want to. I get paid for a full days work when I actually only work for 5 or 6 hours. Everything is already planned for me when I go into the job. I get a recess and lunch break. Most days I get to play outside with the kids. Based on these characteristics, subbing seems like a great idea. However there are some downsides to being a sub. There are days when I go into a class that does not have lesson plans. Some teachers give me two activities for the entire school day. How am I supposed to keep a class under control for 6 hours when I have only 2 hours of work for them? These are usually the more disruptive classes as well. Normally I can tell how good the teacher is by how well the students behave. It's sad, but some teachers have no control over their students. I sure hope that my class isn't that way.
So check this out. Colton Unified School District is in desperate need of subs because their teachers are striking. So what they are doing is paying $275 day for subs. I jumped right on that. It took about a week to get through the system and now I can start work, but I haven't gotten a job yet. Yes, I have become a scab. But who can blame me. I'd do almost anything for $275 a day, well anything normal. This is a good opportunity for me to make some extra money. It should definately help out Britt and I.
So check this out. Colton Unified School District is in desperate need of subs because their teachers are striking. So what they are doing is paying $275 day for subs. I jumped right on that. It took about a week to get through the system and now I can start work, but I haven't gotten a job yet. Yes, I have become a scab. But who can blame me. I'd do almost anything for $275 a day, well anything normal. This is a good opportunity for me to make some extra money. It should definately help out Britt and I.
Friday, January 12
Paid to work!
After months of student teaching, I am now finished and can move into the realm of being paid for my work. So I am sitting here in the classroom and I hear the students yelling and screaming outside. I run out thinking I'm gonna stop a fight or possibly start one. Then I notice that they're running around being hit by SNOW! In Riverside on January 12, 2007 it is snowing. Pretty crazy. I'm totally distracted right now. I think I'll go play in the snow with the kids.
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