Pinewood Derby Scandal (1/20/09)

After I filmed and posted this video, I learned that a controversy arose at our Pinewood Derby. Apparently, the winning car was illegal since the axels were altered. That’s a no-no, apparently. And another successful car was longer than 7 inches so it was disqualified. LOL. Actually, in the latter case at least, the family didn’t know about the 7 inch rule. But anyway, it was just kind of funny since my video had just gone live before I heard the news.

And then tonight, I was watching the news about the Obama Administration’s pick for Treasury Secretary. I haven’t followed the story closely, but it seems pretty clear that the guy cheated on his taxes. And now he’s going to oversee the IRS.

So, yes, cheating is alive and well. As long as there are humans, I guess there will be cheating. But again, Christians should strive to act differently. To put honor and integrity ahead of selfish gain. Yes, it’s hard for us to do sometimes. But surely it must be our goal.

In the News: January 2009 (1/11/09)

I just have two miscellaneous comments on this video. First, I don’t know what I kept looking at on my desk. I did not have notes, so it was just a bad habit! Anyway, I found it kind of annoying. Hopefully you did not

I’ve been asked about my Masters’ thesis. You could tell from the books that the ancient Olympics is involved. Specifically, I’m researching Paul’s use of athletic imagery in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.  This is a famous passage where the apostle refers to races, boxing, training and athletic prizes…and I was interested in delving into this passage in a very thorough way. In doing so, I had to research ancient sports to make sure I understood the context. And even though we think we know what Paul was talking about, there are differences and nuances that make the text more rich. Anyway, when the thesis is done, I’ll share it with anyone who is interested…and I’ll probably try to do a video or something.

The Right Cleats (1/1/09)

It’s a new year and a great time to recommit ourselves to growing spiritually. Notice how I didn’t say recommit ourselves to becoming better people. No, it’s a great time to recommit ourselves to grow spiritually. That is, grow closer to God. Learn more about God. Develop a better understanding of what Jesus was like. And then pray all of this knowledge will lead to wisdom and smart choices in your life.

Trying to break a very bad habit or changing our personalities is tough. Very tough. But if you focus on knowing more about God and developing your relationship with God, I think you’ll be amazed at how the Holy Spirit will change your life. So this January, start anew and take some steps to develop your faith.