The Frozen Monk

I guess “The Frozen Monk” sounds like an Alaskan legend, or perhaps a popular drink among Catholics. Then again, maybe I’ve just been taking too much cold medicine this week. This I do know, we don’t get even a dusting of snow very often and the little monk who sits outside my study window sure looks like he’s enjoying it. May all who find themselves traveling today get home safe.

My Father's World

This is where I go jogging each week. It’s one of the paths that runs through River Legacy Park. When I need to clear my head or pray or just looking for a little inspiration this is where I go.

Today is Christ the King Sunday and I took this picture following church. It’s the end of November so there aren’t many leaves left, but what a blessing it is to spend even a few minutes in a place that can remind you of hymns like this…

This is my Father’s world
Why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is king, let the heavens ring
God reigns, let the earth be glad!

Let Them Eat Cake

Here is a picture of our grandson Colin. Last Saturday he celebrated his first birthday and guess what? It was like the best birthday party I’ve been to in ages. We had great weather, zesty Mexican food, cold Coronas, and a jump house that the grown ups played in along with the kids. Oh yeah… and we had lots of cake!

I’m not sure if Colin’s parents will be able to afford a party like this every year, but if this kid can inspire that much fun after being around for just one year, I can’t wait to see how the next few turn out.

Ho, Ho, Ho

Ho, Ho, Ho? Already?! Yes, believe it or not, even though Christmas is still 45 days away, I’m already getting into the spirit. It’s not even Advent and Ruth and I have already bought and listened to a new James Taylor Christmas CD.

That’s just not like me. So what’s the deal? I’m not really sure myself, but I think it has something to do with all of the conflict, violence, war, roadside bombings and school shootings. Though Christmas itself may not change any of that…

I’m finding that I really need to hear again the wonderful story about the birth of Jesus. And that I can hardly wait to see all of our kids (like Alexandra here) all dressed up like angels and shepherds. So, don’t be surprised if you hear me humming: “O rest beside the weary road and hear the angels sing.”

I know it’s early, but I’m really ready for a little peace on earth and good will towards all.

Who's Your Daddy?

On Reformation Sunday many of us had a moment during worship we won't soon forget. As people were kneeling around the altar for communion, one of our toddlers came walking up. As he wandered around the circle he kept asking: Where's my daddy? Where's my daddy?

My initial response was to think to myself... Right here, my little man. He's right here in the bread and wine of holy communion. Of course, that's not what he meant and everyone knew it. Fortunately, one of our moms knew exactly what to do. She took him by the hand and led him back to his mother.

I love this picture of Matt and his son Austin, it was taken recently at our church's Halloween party. Austin is not the little boy who found his way to the communion rail last Sunday, but it sure is a nice reminder of the joy that comes to every girl and boy who is held in the firm and loving grasp of their father's hands.

The Chicken

Twenty years ago this woman basically called me a chicken. (It had something to do with commitment issues) So just to prove her wrong... I married her. Pretty romantic huh? Actually, it's been all that and more. So in just a few days we are heading down to the hill country in order to celebrate 20 years of marriage. Probably find a little Bed and Breakfast somewhere and you can probably guess what else... That's right, I'm taking her to Wurstfest in New Braunfels and making her do "The Chicken" along with a bunch of other polkas. And if she dances real good, I just might buy her a beer and sign up for another 20!

Habitat for Humanity

In early October around 30 people from Shepherd of Life went over to Dallas in order to spend the day measuring, cutting, hammering, caulking and painting. Debi, Zane and Annette put it all together and provided a great lunch. If you want to make a difference in your community get in touch with your local Habitat for Humanity. This coming Saturday people will be gathering to dedicate four new homes on Moffat street. Four families will now have their very own home and just being one small part of it became one of the best days of 2006. Thanks gang... great job!

Why I Love Baseball

Last night the Cardinals defeated the Mets to advance to the World Series against the Tigers. That’s going to be a rematch of the 1968 series that I remember listening to on the radio during P.E. as a kid.

And it was this amazing snow cone catch by Chavez that reminded me again of why I love baseball. So often the things that Christ calls us to do seem beyond what's possible. But you just keep giving it your best and every once in a while you do something unexpected and wonderful that surprises everyone... including yourself!

The Journey

There are images that stay with you for a long time. I won't try to add a 1,000 words to each, but some are certainly worth a few. PJ