Doodle #1

Here's a doodle from Monica Roberts.

Great Things

My head hangs low today, my friends, in shame and disgrace.

January 20, 2006, has come and gone and I forgot to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Ronald Wilson Reagan's inauguration.

Can you forgive me?

While we're on the subject of Reagan, let me share one of my favorite quotes of his. He spoke these words in his final address to the nation from the Oval Office on January 11, 1989:

"I wasn't a great communicator, but I communicated great things."

I take those words to heart as I begin my new role at HFBC. God is doing great things in our church. I think all of us who go there can attest to that! What a joy it will be to have "great things" to communicate -- to have "great things" that almost speak for themselves!

Doodle Time!

If you were like me as a child, you used to pass time away in church by doodling on the bulletin. And now, if you are like me as a grown up, you are actually interested in hearing the message each Sunday and are focused on trying to write down each thought and nugget of truth.

Therefore, you have no time for doodling on Sundays.

Well, now's your chance. If you attended HFBC this past Sunday and did not get a chance to doodle, simply right click on the picture above, copy it, paste it into Microsoft PowerPoint or Photo Editor, print it out, and doodle your heart out. Glasses, hats, warts -- the sky's the limit. Consider it my gift to you.

When you're done, e-mail your doodlings back to me so I can share 'em with others.

And for those you who like to know "the rest of the story," here's the original picture taken with Dinah (and Dave) at Dustin and Megan's wedding reception.

"The End of The Spear"

A friend forwarded the following e-mail to me and asked me to put it on my blog. I am flattered to think that my blog came to mind as a way to help reach 100,000 people! ;-)

But before you read the e-mail or see the movie, I wanted to bring up another point that may go unnoticed by most media. The actor cast as Nate Saint (martyred in the movie) and Steve Saint (his son who maintains a ministry with the Waodani tribe) is Chad Allen, an openly homosexual activist.

Now, I am not bringing this up in an attempt to turn people against the film -- not at all. Rather, I think it offers an interesting item for discussion for believers. What impact, if any, will his involvement in the film have on its message? For an editorial on this topic, refer to this article I found by doing a simple Google search.

OK ... so, here's the e-mail:

========================

A major film, called End Of The Spear, opens today, January 20. It depicts the effects of the Grace of God in very powerful and spectacular ways.

The story begins in 1956, when five Christian missionaries (Jim Elliot was among them) gave their lives in an Ecuadorian jungle, attempting to bring the gospel to the Waodani stone-age people. At that time they were the most violent tribe on Earth – and yet they became the most loving and peaceful!

The missionaries made friendly contact, but something went terribly wrong. The Waodani speared them to death. A tragedy? Yes, but God turns everything to good, for the blessing of many and for His glory, and this was no exception. God used this tragedy to motivate more people to become missionaries than any other event in modern history – perhaps ever. He also used two women to complete the work of the five martyred missionaries, bringing the Waodani to himself.

So the deaths of those five men did more to advance the kingdom of God than their lives ever could.

It is a major motion picture (production cost $12 million) that tells the story of God's Grace from the perspective of the Waodoni. Beginning today, End Of The Spear will be shown in theaters across the United States. If it does well it will be accepted by many other theaters, but it must do well right from the start. We can help make the film do well. We can work together to get at least 100,000 people to see the film on January 20th.

How? Very simple. This e-mail is going to hundreds of addresses, many in America. Our connections are endless! So, if each of us were to pass this e-mail on to just 10 others (some can share it with hundreds!), and each of them did the same, our goal of getting 100,000 people to see the film on January 20 would be reached easily -- and likely greatly surpassed!

Just forward this e-mail to 10 caring friends. Let's make End Of The Spear a great success! To learn more about the film visit: http://www.daretomakecontact.com/

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Extreme Makeover: H-Town Edition

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is in H-Town this week building a much-needed home for a much-deserving family.

The picture here shows the Kubena family -- John and Monica (on the left) and their identical twins, Sara and Tara. Both girls are battling Leukemia and are being treated at H-Town's own Texas Children's Hospital.

Unfortunately, all of the volunteer slots are taken. But there are still ways to help out if you're interested -- especially financially. The goal is to raise $150,000 to help cover the family's medical bills.

(OK, so East Bernard ain't exactly H-Town and is located outside more loops than I care to count. But it's closer to H-Town than Dallas, so we win.)

Flingin' My Green And Gold Afar

At HFBC on January 15, Pastor Gregg pointed out that the First Edition was printed in burnt orange in honor of the Longhorns' national championship. Being the devout Aggie that he is, he pointed out that he had nothing to do with the color choice. As pastor of the church, he does not micromanage down to the color of ink used in our weekly newsletter -- and rightfully so.

This week's First Edition is in maroon ink. It features an announcement about three new HFBC staff members -- myself included. With pictures, no less.

Me in maroon. Yes, I went to A&M for graduate school, but to this day I still have no idea where my diploma is. I remember seeing it last at my parents' house at some point rolled up in the tube it came in. A&M is a great school (yes, I said it), but my loyalties lie up the road about 90 miles at dear ol' Baylor.

So, beginning February 6, you can expect to see the First Edition in green. A lot. Sic 'em!

Do You Get It?

Some people categorize their friends like they categorize clothes. I have my good weather dress shoes and my rainy weather dress shoes. I have my normal pants and, um, -- let's just say my "new normal" pants.

For the most part, I have used late-night TV to categorize my friends. I have those who prefer Leno and those who prefer Letterman. Of course, I'm not sure which host all of my friends actually prefer. But when the truth comes to light, I file away that nugget of information for future use.

Now I have a new method of categorization: those who get "The Office" and those who do not.

I understand that there is a difference between liking it and getting it. I know people who get it, but do not like it. I am OK being seen with these people in public, even though they make me sad. But I also know people who do not like it because they do not get it. I am not OK with these folks. They trouble me.

I have heard rumors of people who do not get it but who actually like it. Do they know that they do not get it, but continue to watch it in hopes of figuring it out? Or do they not even know that they do not get it and are simply attracted to the show for reasons other than the humor? If you happen to be one of these people, let me know. I want to study you.

If you are a friend of mine and are reading this, let me reassure you -- I do not use these categorizations to judge your value as a person. They simply give me guidance on how best to communicate with you.

For example, I can interact with those who prefer Letterman and who get "The Office" much like a husband and wife who have been married for 47 years. A simple glance and a well-timed "uh-huh" can convey more meaning than an hour's worth of dialogue. When talking with someone who prefers Leno and who does not get "The Office", I try to speak slowly, use small words and keep my jokes on the 2nd grade level.

It would help me out a great deal if you could let me know how best to categorize you. Regarding "The Office" on NBC, which of the following best describes you?

(A) Get it / Like it
(B) Get it / Don't like it
(C) Don't get it / Like it
(D) Don't get it / Don't like it

Marathon Sunday

The list of spiritual lessons to be learned from running a marathon is long and well-known. God showed me many of them when I ran the Houston marathon several years ago, and they have remained with me ever since. Run the race marked out for you. Keep your eyes on the prize. You've heard 'em all before.

Well, I ran in the marathon again yesterday.

Notice, I did not say that I ran the marathon. I ran in the marathon. In fact, I ran in it three times -- once with Ross Culbertson, once with Lincoln Goodwin and once with Julie Abrahams as they each passed by mile marker 22 near my house.

And again, God used the moment for spiritual lessons and illustrations. But these were new ones for me since I saw the marathon from a different point of view.

I ran with Ross for about a quarter mile at the most. As I was running with him, I was encouraging him and asking him how he was feeling. He was doing great. Then, he asked me how I was doing and told me that I was looking good! Me -- the guy who had only been running for 2 minutes. After about 3 minutes, I wished him well and bowed out of the race.

When Lincoln came along, I jumped back into the race to run with him. I played the role of "encouraging friend" again as we went along for a little over a quarter mile (now that I was warmed up, I could go farther). Like Ross, he gave me feedback on how I was doing in my 4 minute contribution to his 4+ hour journey.

Then came Julie. We had received word from a friend that she was not having a good run, but when she reached our cheering section she was in good spirits. Several of us jumped in to run with her and to do our best to encourage her. We followed her lead -- running when she ran, walking when she walked. Having run a marathon before, I understand how well-intentioned friends may be toward the end of the race when they do their best to get you to pick up the pace. And I know how annoying that can be. With Julie, we just followed her pace.

So what did this illustrate to me? What lessons were learned or reinforced? I'm glad you asked.

(1) We have to prepare to run the race -- even the little ones. If you add it all up, I still ran less than one mile. But come Monday morning (heck, even Sunday night), I was more sore than I had been in years. Muscles that I forgot I had were killing me (in fact, they still are). That's what I get for jumping in and pushing my body beyond what it was ready to do. No stretching. No warming up. No water. A belly full of coffee and coffee cake. Even in little "races" such as my stint in the marathon, we have to be prepared. As we go about our lives and come across the deceptively easy "races" we take on, we have to be ready for what it will take. Are we prayed up? Are we biblically grounded? Are we seeking God's direction? Training comes before the race -- not during the race.

(2) We need to encourage others running the race. Ross and Lincoln had 22 miles under their belt by the time I joined them. Clearly, they had a big goal that day -- one that they had been training for for months. The end was in sight, just 4.2 miles away. But they asked me how I was doing -- the guy who was new to the race, who hadn't trained at all. That's how mature believers need to be with newer ones. We need to take time out to turn our attention toward newer believers -- or believers who are struggling -- and ask about their journeys. Even in the midst of our greatest challenges, we can find ways to encourage those around us.

(3) We need to meet people where they are. That's what we did with Julie. We met her where she was and encouraged her in the progress she was making. She had already covered 22 miles! We were well-rested and ready to go. She was well-worn and ready to go home (her words, not mine). Our task was to come alongside her and show our support -- not to push her beyond her limits or to a pace she wasn't ready to run. That's how it is with other believers, too. Meet them where they are in their relationship with the Lord and walk with them -- or run if they're on fire and hungry for more! Don't slow them down -- and don't push them past what they can handle.


Hmmmm ... maybe I need to train for the 2007 race?

Change Of Plans

Things have changed since I told you about my new job.

As it turns out, my last day at M. D. Anderson will be Friday, January 27 -- one week later than originally planned. My first day at HFBC will be Monday, February 6. We just needed more time to transition things at M. D. Anderson.

And, of course, this allows more time for my team members to plan my farewell party. Good times!

Unexpected Blessings

If you ever need a healthy dose of affirmation -- or want to find other believers at work -- just quit your job.

On Tuesday, I sent an e-mail to about 150 folks here at M. D. Anderson letting them know about my plans to leave to go to work for my church. These were people that I work with currently or have worked with during my three and a half years here. The response has been an amazing blessing.

First, people say nice things. Maybe they realize that this is their last chance to share their thoughts so they finally speak up. Or maybe they are just being nice. But as of today, I have received 83 e-mails -- and one phone call. Sure, some are short and to the point ("Congratulations! Sounds like a great opportunity. I wish you well!").

But others are ones that I will forward to my personal e-mail to read on a day in the future when I need a little boost. It's funny how we don't take time to express our gratitude toward one another until we're faced with losing somebody. And I am equally guilty. When a co-worker retired a couple of months ago, I realized just how valuable she was to our team and to guiding me in my job here when I first started. As her departure loomed closer, I finally took the time to thank her.

Second, people reveal their faith. Many of the e-mails referenced the "blessing" of "serving the Lord" in my new job. Several mentioned where they attended church -- or that they just started going to Beth Moore's Bible study at HFBC on Tuesday nights. Some quoted scripture. And almost all of these were from people with whom I had never discussed my (our) faith.

Since I did not work extensively with some of them, there was not much time for us to get to know one another. Otherwise, we might have discovered our mutual Father. That said, I have been blessed to work very closely with several strong believers on my team -- many of whom lent a listening ear as I struggled with the decision to leave M. D. Anderson.

OK, so maybe quitting your job is a bit dramatic if all you really need is a little boost. But if you are considering making a job change, be sure to have an e-mail ready to go -- and then sit back and watch what God reveals to you.

FREE Gift Cards!

Random question/offer . . .

I have $150 in Dillards gift cards. However, I want an iPod and they do not sell them. The only thing iPod-related that they sell are jeweled cases, and that ain't really my style.

So, if anybody is planning on spending $150 at Dillards anytime soon, I would love to swap cash for these gift cards. I have a $50 card and a $100 card if you are only interested in one of them.

(OK, so actually, they are not FREE, but since it's an even trade you're not losing anything ... so that's kinda free, right?)

Unexpected Transitions

When I quit my job at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) in 2000, I did not have a job lined up already. Dumb move. Twenty-one months later, I ended up at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center where I still am today.

But not for long.

Today, I submitted my resignation. With lessons learned under my belt, I already have a new job lined up this time. I guess the more accurate way to put that is to say that God has lined up one for me. I am resigning to pursue an opportunity that He dropped into my life -- one that I wasn't looking for, and one which I never expected to have.

I have accepted the position of Director of Communications at Houston's First Baptist Church.

Here's how God has worked . . . on December 6, David Self (Executive Pastor at HFBC) contacted me about my interest in this new position at the church. The month since that initial phone call has included meetings with David, lunch with Pastor Gregg, many conversations with Don Munton and other friends, several prayer request e-mails, a meeting with the Personnel Committee, approval by the Deacons –- and back-and-forth bouts of doubt and assuredness!

In this new role, I will report to David but work closely with Pastor Gregg to support his vision for HFBC. Departments I will oversee include Reprographics, Membership Services, the Garden Bookstore, and the Resource Center (or Library). While these may not all seem related to one another at first glance, each department impacts our ability to effectively communicate what HFBC is all about.

When I met with Gregg a couple of weeks ago, he mentioned in his prayer over our lunch that we were looking to see if there were an “intersection” between what God is doing at HFBC and what He is doing in my life. What a perfect way to put it! I could go on and on about the different ways in which God has confirmed that there is indeed such an intersection, but I won’t. Just take my word for it – I am assured that this is where God is calling me to go.

My last day at M. D. Anderson will be January 20 and my first day at HFBC will be February 1. Between the two, I plan to take a few days off to tie up some personal things and to go on a brief vacation. While I will enjoy some downtime to relax, I also want to spend time alone with God before I enter this new chapter of my life. I would appreciate your prayers for this to be a rejuvenating time with Him, and that I would be open to receiving a fresh vision from Him for this new ministry. (And if you have any leads on a secluded getaway in the Hill Country, let me know!)

Let me say a few words about M. D. Anderson. One of the most painful aspects of this transition was coming to terms with the fact that I would be leaving such an incredible institution. What a blessing it has been to be a part of that place! The dedication of its people, the boldness of its mission, the achievements in its past, the promises in its future – it all adds up to a truly world-class organization.

My leaving M. D. Anderson is definitely the result of a “pull” toward another career – not a “push” away from this institution that I love and admire so greatly.

• For those wanting a job, I recommend M. D. Anderson.
• For those wanting to make a financial donation, I recommend M. D. Anderson.
• For those seeking a place to volunteer, I recommend M. D. Anderson.
• For those needing treatment, I recommend M. D. Anderson.

OK, I think I have communicated enough for now. Thanks for letting me share this with you. I would appreciate your prayers as I wrap up things at M. D. Anderson and prepare for this new chapter in my life.

Going Once, Going Twice ... Uh, Never Mind

One of my favorite memories from Astroworld was the mini-bakery near the front entrance where you could buy mini-loaves of freshly baked bread. I bought many mini-loaves over the years. (No wonder I'm not a fan of the Atkins diet.)

Well, there was no bread at the Astroworld auction today, but it was good times nonetheless. And, I was quickly priced out of getting anything I wanted. For example, the "Please Remain Seated At All Times" sign from the Texas Cyclone went for $1,300. And a bench that I thought would somehow "work" in my house went for over $300.

No thanks.

The final day of public access to Astroworld (or at least to the backlot) drew out a random assortment of folks. I think most, like me, were curious onlookers hoping for a deal -- only to have those hopes dashed by bigger spenders.

There were older folks and younger folks (that's me) ... and people willing to put their dignity aside for a few minutes while they got down on the dirty floor to pick through hundreds of Astroworld shot glasses hoping to find one with their name on it.

Again ... no thanks.

As we left the grounds (Lori Latham went with me), we passed by Batman: The Escape -- or what is left of it, at least. What thousands of people used to stand in line for in the 117 degree heat and 97% humidity is now a partially disassembled pile of metal tracks. By the time you read this, it may already be completely taken down. I'm not too emotionally attached to this ride since it's not from the glory days of Astroworld (translation = my youth), but it seemed to capture the mood of the day.

Besides, I still miss the Dexter Freebish. Can I get an "AMEN!"?

My Trip To The Rose Bowl

Just got back from California. Had a great time at the Rose Bowl. Got to hang out with some fans before the game and toss around the ball for awhile. This pic shows my good form and concentration. HOOK 'EM!

What's In A Name?

Move over Clarence and Earl. Looks like Steven needs a seat at the "lame name" table.

The Top 100 Baby Names of 2005 is out and Steven did not make the list. Of course, neither did Todd nor Travis nor Lincoln nor Joel. And neither did Catha nor Dovie nor Dinah nor Shanna nor Lori nor Janet ... nor Arshunda. (Don't tell my roommate, but David made the list in 38th place.)

According to the website, the noble name of Steven (meaning "crowned one") hit its peak in the 1960s when it was the 10th most popular name for boys that decade. We were 15th in the 1950s and 13th in the 1970s. Since I was born in June of 1970 (and was therefore conceived in the 1960s), I'm sure my parents were all about giving me what was then a Top 10 name.

The 1980s brought on competition from the likes of Jose and Nicholas and Joshua, pushing us down to 30th place. We surged again in the 1990s to 23rd place and have been falling ever since. In fact, it appears that beginning in 2000 they lumped us Stevens with our archenemies -- the Stephens. From 2000 on we are never listed in the same year; a footnote explains that names with spelling variations were grouped for their calculations.

I am convinced that that's what brought down the good name of Steven. From the 1950s forward (when Steven and Stephen first appeared), Steven always outranked Stephen. Always. See the chart below:

Then, in 2000 when they implemented integration of the names, Steven/Stephen fell to 36th, then to 49th in 2001 and 2002, then to 75th in 2003, and finally ... off the charts in 2004. And that's where we remain.

So, my curiosity is getting to me. Did Steven fall out of favor with the new parents of America, or did we simply lose out to trendier names? Was there a dictator or celebrity who brought shame upon our name, as was the fate with Adolph and O.J.? Shouldn't the fact that our name is in the Bible help us out a little? I mean, even if I do have to sell myself out to our "ph-ed" archenemies, I'll take it if it means I can get back on the list!

It's discouraging to know that there were more little Xaviers, Tristans, Ians and Liams brought into the world last year than adorable little Stevens!

Stealth Aggies

Not long before the Rose Bowl last night, I asked a friend of mine which team he was pulling for.

A quizzical expression on his face told me it wasn't an easy decision for him to make. He finally sided with Texas. His angst prompted me to ask him where he went to school. Turns out he went to Texas A&M.

Now, I'm pretty sure that I knew that, but there is nothing about him that serves as a constant reminder of his Aggie status. I never hear him talk about it, there is no decal on his car, he doesn't wear Wranglers. The fact that he went to A&M had slipped my mind completely.

When I pointed this out to him -- that his Aggieness was not detectable -- he had this to say:

"I enjoyed my time at A&M. It was a lot of fun while I was there. But in a way, A&M is like your high school girlfriend. It was fun while it lasted, but at some point, you just have to let it go and move on."