Alright, I like to read, usually, and I like theology, so it would seem to make sense that I would enjoy reading a commentary. However, I must admit, that after an hour straight of plodding my way through the depths of information overload (namely in the form of a commentary on Acts) I find myself, how shall I say this, stymied. I've just about reached the end of my hoarded resources. I can feel the information beginning to seep out around the edges. However, there is a silver lining, as I write this I sit in a Panera Bread, and earlier enjoyed their wonderful broccoli and cheddar soup, along with half of a chipotle chicken sandwich, both of which were, placidly perfect. Alas, they will be closing soon, and I must needs depart for another location not yet known (perhaps Starbucks). So, to thee, I bid adieu!

Ryan

Tags: Homework, Reading

We just ended the annual Fall Revival here at GBS. But in reality, should we really say that it's ended? Shouldn't revival be something that continues long after the special speaker as said his final word, and the lights have been turned off? I like what this years speaker, Travis Johnson, said at the last service Friday morning, "The success of this revival will not be the tears that were shed...but the lives that will be lived out" (paraphrase). I have been overwhelmed lately with just how much trust I can put in God. I find myself reaffirming to God nearly every time I talk to Him just how much I trust Him "because You are good."

I love Sundays! They are definitely the pinnacle of the week, or as Dr. Brown calls it, "the Queen of the week." I love being able to go to church and worship my God while serving those around me. I love the freedom that we have to be vocal about our faith, and to try and lead others into the same relationship we have with Him. I also love the fact that we are actually Biblically mandated to rest! Rest! A word that's nearly foreign in our overly ambitious and production oriented country today. It's a wonderful feeling just to let your guard down for a while, spend some time reading a good book, take a nap, listen to some funny old time radio shows, and, most importantly, spend some time alone with God and be refreshed in His presence. I did a brief study of the Biblical idea of the Sabbath (here), and I believe that the Christian Sabbath is another great example of the fact that God cares for the needs of His people.


One of the "good books" that I'm reading is John Eldridge's Waking the Dead. The title comes from a quote by St. Irenaeus, "The glory of God is a man fully alive." I'm only up to chapter three, but it's fascinating so far. I recommend it.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

Ryan

Tags: Revival, Reading, Relax