tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73093350632853170012024-02-07T20:15:27.673-08:00MetropuritanMetro- culturally relevant.
Puritan- seeking the glory of God in all of life.Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.comBlogger538125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-54594203973635385222023-10-16T18:21:00.000-07:002023-10-16T18:21:08.330-07:00The Advantage of Average Book <p>It's been almost 10 years since I posted on this blog lol... </p><p>Anyway, here is the news in my world...</p><p>Well friends, I have a little announcement to make. It's actually kind of funny to even say these words, but... I wrote a book! It's now available on Amazon. You can get paperback, hardcover, kindle, and audiobook. </p><div>Here's how it happened. Over five years ago, I got off social media. Which means, I had a little time to think. I spent random time in the mornings and evenings writing down my thoughts. I went on a couple writing retreats with some friends. And, out came a book. </div><div><br /></div><div>What is the book about? That's hard to summarize. But my friend James Pusey helped edit and bring the book to life. He wrote a little blurb on the back of the book that you can read. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's an average book for average people. If you're an average person who thinks, "Not bad. I think I might've liked it." then leave a review on Amazon. They tell me that's what the algorithms like to see.</div><div><br /></div><div>Soli Deo Gloria.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZ7KHT__SpziAEY2l2zs8y_r1E5M22x-1nZe3aOxQW9W-48SRqtbIf8nRPifeXIT6HD9OVqNPXyosIkeTr95D0DmpNiwPP7xTPWYE2y3fsPLHWDFVwRMFmoJm43fTUh8O7dEPjagX56QwHr4YXgXSovNQ6b2gbKtFGTu-UMr_6ZZKeSERIV1tjxFZXsw/s6300/Cover%20+%20Wrap%20Mockup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4200" data-original-width="6300" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZ7KHT__SpziAEY2l2zs8y_r1E5M22x-1nZe3aOxQW9W-48SRqtbIf8nRPifeXIT6HD9OVqNPXyosIkeTr95D0DmpNiwPP7xTPWYE2y3fsPLHWDFVwRMFmoJm43fTUh8O7dEPjagX56QwHr4YXgXSovNQ6b2gbKtFGTu-UMr_6ZZKeSERIV1tjxFZXsw/s320/Cover%20+%20Wrap%20Mockup.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBG6WJNxDYlT4IQVCVIWMRU0Q_2imz1lqapnYinBM_ZNlTlB93wFjSJlJh134tbmUYnb74ws_hjg7nVnAAQzA-Y-BkuDPtJ6iVLZ_QWkrNkKRvTLdhjhaW6sKdhHc0yqYAvN_RWha6GRgAn78A0CnPLzPY9z_44LeXa5FU5-SHJUAcrRCAtprfgbpjhdg/s5000/QR%20Cover%20Mockup%204x5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBG6WJNxDYlT4IQVCVIWMRU0Q_2imz1lqapnYinBM_ZNlTlB93wFjSJlJh134tbmUYnb74ws_hjg7nVnAAQzA-Y-BkuDPtJ6iVLZ_QWkrNkKRvTLdhjhaW6sKdhHc0yqYAvN_RWha6GRgAn78A0CnPLzPY9z_44LeXa5FU5-SHJUAcrRCAtprfgbpjhdg/s320/QR%20Cover%20Mockup%204x5.png" width="256" /></a></div><br /></div><div><div class="yj6qo" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></div></div><p><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></p><div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6khtj" data-offset-key="a2tap-0-0" style="caret-color: rgb(15, 20, 25); color: #0f1419; font-family: TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; white-space: pre-wrap;"></div>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-49402074236525093212014-02-08T08:40:00.000-08:002014-02-08T08:40:42.164-08:00Tweets I haven't posted<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
Sitting in airport means vacation (and social media hiatus) is over, so here are some of the thoughts I haven't tweeted this past week...</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
1. Cave & Light book (Thanks Doug!) has reignited my love for philosophy. Socrates is right, the unexamined life is not worth living. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
2. Donald miller's post was ridiculous. Epitome of this generation's "spiritual but not religious" false dichotomy (ie. lie) The worlds greatest lie is one letter away from the truth</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
3. American obsessions are obvious & sickening in their excess: sugar, sex, body image, comfort, money, pleasure... But with thankfulness to our Creator & moderation these are beautiful </div>
<div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
4. Mark: what is the one thing you need to have a laser focus on at home & work? You constantly need to re-focus on why you're here. Life is too short to wander thru it</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
5. Taking the time to talk to & thank every Military Vet I see is always worth it. They are wearing their uniform/hat/etc bc they are proud. So am I. 91 y/o WW2 Navy vet Robert Nut told me he could never understand why Jesus had to die. A 15 min convo can change someone's eternity</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
6. My 3 stores: Plato's Closet, Pacsun, Zumiez</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
7. Florida sun is healing </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
8. Vacations will never seem practical but are always worth it</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
9. The 3 days in the van w the Veritas directors was worth it for 1000 reasons. Every minute was spent talking about the passion we all share: Jesus and his church. We're more unified than ever</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
10. On 12-18-99 I told Leatha in front of God & a few hundred people "You are my most treasured gift from God." I've never been more sure of this, and this, too, is grace</div>
<div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18px;">
<br /></div>
Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-12023816449530877522012-11-05T08:35:00.003-08:002012-11-05T08:35:49.768-08:00What? A blog post?! Getting old does that...36 today. (<i>Jeff honored my b-day with this t-shirt...</i>)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCOb5yefPxykziDaa-RTXOkeNFTRN_CtW9kAjK_5CKo6fzzx_SWTo_V23hZ1_-NUmZ9BaK3vYR9oD4pciNWMD8G4gZizr-U6hz1efU9IEO-bcd5FmVMaIwq7buio7-GliT7axksVzDZo/s1600/IMG_2313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCOb5yefPxykziDaa-RTXOkeNFTRN_CtW9kAjK_5CKo6fzzx_SWTo_V23hZ1_-NUmZ9BaK3vYR9oD4pciNWMD8G4gZizr-U6hz1efU9IEO-bcd5FmVMaIwq7buio7-GliT7axksVzDZo/s320/IMG_2313.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I think I'm okay with aging. The older I get, it seems to take less and less to get an adrenaline rush. But now it's a whole new set of stimuli that that gets me jacked... NPR, not roller coasters, dark coffee, not Mountain Dew, Maple trees in fall, not the toy section at Christmas. And on it goes.<br />
<br />
But I also know that with age, the (<i>ironically named</i>) beast, called Apathy, is pounding louder and louder on the door of my heart.<br />
<br />
My greatest fear in life is not losing my adrenaline, but losing my passion, which is why I read Asa's story every year on November 5th.<br />
<br />
We are on a staff day away (first Monday of every month). I randomly passed out Old Testament scripture for our staff to read and reflect on. There are untold treasures in the OT, and life giving instruction that I never want us to lose sight of (1 Cor. 10:1-13).<br />
<br />
What Scripture should I get, but 2 Chronicles 14-16 (Asa's story...)?<br />
<br />
So I'm sitting here at this coffee shop in Cedar Rapids, and here's my conversation with God.<br />
<br />
"But Lord, I already read this passage earlier this morning..."<br />
Yes, Mark, read it again. There's more life for you there<br />
<br />
The life lesson handed down to me from Asa seems to be best summarized, "...the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chron 16:9<br />
<br />
And so this November 5th, I really have one question for myself, "Is my heart fully committed to Jesus today?"<br />
<br />
A prayer...<br />
<br />
"Jesus, I never want to the most exciting days to be behind me. I never want to be talking about when I used to trust you, or when I used to depend on you to move mountains, or used to read, memorize, study, and delight in your word. When I used to fast and how much I used to pray. Today, Lord Jesus, you have my heart, my life, my all. Lead me not into the temptation of opening the door to Apathy, depending on my 401k, or equity, or comfortable church, or success, or entertainment... Find me still jumping off cliffs expecting you to catch me, praying for mountains to move, and your kingdom to come on earth, as it is in heaven. For the sake of Jesus and his glory, may I see more of you in year 36 than ever before! Amen."<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-75583398689071997212012-07-17T13:14:00.001-07:002012-07-17T13:14:04.065-07:00New Anthem Video... Love it!!!I'm so proud of the team back in Ames who keeps the fire of worship blazing hotter than ever. Keep it up friends! SDG.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/45729002" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-30765883092980385832012-05-26T14:49:00.000-07:002012-05-26T14:49:31.037-07:00Arant #6 has arrived!Savannah Pearl Arant, 8lbs 5oz. was born at 7:47pm yesterday (May 25, 2012) at the University of Iowa Hospital.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGW0-lZeZNxfO4q7vaXhMvtMATuCZvTCdzvYBHp7ibLJmT2ghWVSgHFeFEE0Ak2PHtkNio7T49YXL1zD4YjXbAVwtwtE8_FgVUpTgGYEnEzKBQlwuDBfpalx7xIqtKdZYW_4qGfj1mL8/s1600/IMG_1283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGW0-lZeZNxfO4q7vaXhMvtMATuCZvTCdzvYBHp7ibLJmT2ghWVSgHFeFEE0Ak2PHtkNio7T49YXL1zD4YjXbAVwtwtE8_FgVUpTgGYEnEzKBQlwuDBfpalx7xIqtKdZYW_4qGfj1mL8/s320/IMG_1283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Leatha and the baby are doing great. She started having cramps during our connection group, and about 24 hours later, out came Savannah. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is a picture of Ava with her new sister. Most people would put the blame (or credit, however you look at it) on me, but the circumstances make me think it had more to do with Ava's fervent prayers for a sister over the last 6 years. We liked "Savannah" for a number of reasons. One being that it had Ava's name in it. "Pearl" reminds us of the gift that was given in a difficult season of life, and one that God used to bring joy and restoration.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9I7AnPB02Psat9r2L4ueQH4zPr300IdJIVmZtAuAG7gSzoiRA_UWK_DirPYkc1Md0AYnXbnXa5QaS6yNunBs3T6OtsXYjsJnWXyZ1xUx-kof9rvy_1NJTKiLgDRlXTJPAraCBh1Kat_E/s1600/IMG_1325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9I7AnPB02Psat9r2L4ueQH4zPr300IdJIVmZtAuAG7gSzoiRA_UWK_DirPYkc1Md0AYnXbnXa5QaS6yNunBs3T6OtsXYjsJnWXyZ1xUx-kof9rvy_1NJTKiLgDRlXTJPAraCBh1Kat_E/s320/IMG_1325.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiVoEOlqbEO0FvERfjN8svIQMvSVDosyBeaTpJEz87jxfPSkdnH-FV82jCSiKHUW5X8A8xK0mTmE2UmWQ7bgSwrEqd4Blm14xBldhh7q_P5e17dJP-tyJcWMICjhZB611182m0xzDw7A/s1600/IMG_1303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiVoEOlqbEO0FvERfjN8svIQMvSVDosyBeaTpJEz87jxfPSkdnH-FV82jCSiKHUW5X8A8xK0mTmE2UmWQ7bgSwrEqd4Blm14xBldhh7q_P5e17dJP-tyJcWMICjhZB611182m0xzDw7A/s320/IMG_1303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's a verse from Savannah's birthday Psalm "Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." (Ps. 25:4-5) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To God be the glory for this new life He has given!</div>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-18703527121830191442012-05-01T13:42:00.001-07:002012-05-01T13:42:48.489-07:00Backstage Prep for Adoleo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jeff caught me helping with setup. I was a big help... staying out of the way</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGq1fZAq4WMqspDAI_vyKyuhC1pqJw4L3lU-WXc4hEp1HGRUCUfHh7Ic5a2Ay1KlhEsAPAD28bJZcqacj5aWeGuhU68NKtXHpzRoMB3EPpnw2954QD91WkY6q9T-Oo82ekXX9y8MJJTHw/s1600/englert+loading+dock1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGq1fZAq4WMqspDAI_vyKyuhC1pqJw4L3lU-WXc4hEp1HGRUCUfHh7Ic5a2Ay1KlhEsAPAD28bJZcqacj5aWeGuhU68NKtXHpzRoMB3EPpnw2954QD91WkY6q9T-Oo82ekXX9y8MJJTHw/s640/englert+loading+dock1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2__CVzcZIK5_gkx-vPnW8JrehFDkx3GmMcpKh1UrwXBLdxjY8Zkvohf_L8cmnf0dHnL-aj_d0ArTd6_Kns0ox5xQmOXNnHuScYuZiEzRHZcU6r2V6i4svCYFpR7euEtnuYZ-t6fJ8Ug/s1600/englert+loading+dock2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2__CVzcZIK5_gkx-vPnW8JrehFDkx3GmMcpKh1UrwXBLdxjY8Zkvohf_L8cmnf0dHnL-aj_d0ArTd6_Kns0ox5xQmOXNnHuScYuZiEzRHZcU6r2V6i4svCYFpR7euEtnuYZ-t6fJ8Ug/s640/englert+loading+dock2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-72880430319600682482012-04-30T15:55:00.000-07:002012-04-30T15:55:04.015-07:00More BaptismsAfter teaching on the spontaneous baptism of the Ethiopian eunich (Acts 8), we decided to bring some extra clothes and see who wanted to join the 3 people who planned on getting baptized.<br />
<br />
I never want to take this for granted, but it almost goes without saying- the Holy Spirit showed up. Kristi (11:30 in video) was one of the 3 people who signed up to be baptized. She had no church background at all, and found Veritas while searching for churches on the internet. She signed up for baptism out of curiosity, desiring to take the next step of following Jesus. In her baptism "interview", I asked her what the "gospel" means. She said she had no idea, but always wanted someone to explain it to her. After hearing the gospel for the first time (in small group setting), she prayed to receive Christ, and was baptized 3 days later.<br />
<br />
One of our connection groups brought extra clothes, with no clue how many would come forward to get dunked. When we saw the clothes, we wondered why they would bring such a small pair of shorts. That just so happened to be the last pair of clothes we had, PERFECT for Jonah (13:00)...<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/39906445" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-42927860492565305202012-04-24T14:14:00.003-07:002012-04-24T14:14:35.354-07:00Cosmic JokeEvery day I'm confronted with the horrific and yet humorous possibility that God will pull the curtain back and expose one of His great cosmic jokes... "Mark Arant and Jeff Thune planting a church!"<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's divine comedy at its best. Two blissfully ignorant shmos who happen to be standing under a torrential waterfall of God's favor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was meeting with a guy today who has one of those stories that could've been included in the Acts narrative. You know, the typical <i>"guy gets randomly thrown in prison, detained for 6 months, finds a Bible and after reading gives his life to Jesus, then miraculously released and finds Veritas through a friend of a friend..."</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I had met this guy the previous year playing ball at the Rec. Apparently I had told him we were planting a church. He said at the time he thought, "<i>This guy is crazy. How do you plant a church?!</i>" Through the aforementioned ridiculous set of circumstances, he's been at church the last few weeks and sees Jeff and me preaching and recognizes us from ball. He sees that God is clearly at work among us, and asks me with astonishment, "<i>How did you do it?!</i>"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's why I'm taking the time to process the answer to that question right now.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Truth is- I have no idea. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But the formula for Veritas seems to be something like: Average (at best) people, a big God, some precious promises, and thick unmerited favor= Good News explosion in Iowa City. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are some other highlights via pictures...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One of our guys on staff- Bryan Dermody- recently got a phone call from Rex Ryan, head coach of the NY Jets, asking him to come back and be the head strength coach for quarter of million dollars/year. He turned it down for the peanuts we are paying him to work as an intern on our college staff team. The dude barely fits in his little Corolla... (he could've been riding high in an Escalade...) I love this picture of the kingdom! Finding a field with a treasure and selling everything to get the field...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7DRRw1cnTAz4swqr6dPuld4etZwxUZ2YzoctZs44s6NbVdP4wnYMG3eZvLW9ELmtNGyj0W3xBJkmFBcBPyMlYGaF2kbSTNwT3FsysTohtueo9HBvJ4sqxcdR4DshFcngwLSLZeqD_Lo/s1600/IMG_1067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7DRRw1cnTAz4swqr6dPuld4etZwxUZ2YzoctZs44s6NbVdP4wnYMG3eZvLW9ELmtNGyj0W3xBJkmFBcBPyMlYGaF2kbSTNwT3FsysTohtueo9HBvJ4sqxcdR4DshFcngwLSLZeqD_Lo/s320/IMG_1067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This picture is of our men's group. These are all football players. It looks like I've been photoshopped in. The guys on all sides are freaks... Nephilim or something... (Bryan on far right)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEYEfi-0h6erE8RLQ3RWY5HIsUL90qqC-HzHPHKua3ZJR79V-UF8hwkoQerZd5Hps7r5JdyNHCcqF0SuTxFvZPT4r4TvQnTBwiG1-o2wMOGkLot0FnZVLgxPLS-9PVafre6ZFElCHnmo/s1600/IMG_0988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEYEfi-0h6erE8RLQ3RWY5HIsUL90qqC-HzHPHKua3ZJR79V-UF8hwkoQerZd5Hps7r5JdyNHCcqF0SuTxFvZPT4r4TvQnTBwiG1-o2wMOGkLot0FnZVLgxPLS-9PVafre6ZFElCHnmo/s320/IMG_0988.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Cody (left) is an atheist friend who has been attending. He's rocking his Oxford Bible, Jackass T, and always has great questions. Dave is on the right... he's one of the pillars of Veritas who moved his family from Ames to stand under this waterfall.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdN1Iqcdx1eEmFs_Uhd1b7x8SbvaBMywvyIi8otcn5o1MPWjKjwL2WN8c5ZTMUte3ZE7jiLxJ7sMvFo9WYQr80NZ7WWSO8m4k1-uJAm2ju6VwWD379HHL5vI95WtpxObGVntQ_ZaVn55g/s1600/IMG_0934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdN1Iqcdx1eEmFs_Uhd1b7x8SbvaBMywvyIi8otcn5o1MPWjKjwL2WN8c5ZTMUte3ZE7jiLxJ7sMvFo9WYQr80NZ7WWSO8m4k1-uJAm2ju6VwWD379HHL5vI95WtpxObGVntQ_ZaVn55g/s320/IMG_0934.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here's a verse in the text I'm preaching on this week, "The Lord's hand was with them, and a large number who believed turned to the Lord... God's message flourished and multiplied..." (Acts 11:21, 12:24)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFYxgoRGpNgEtTOxkFBsQEejmWV6ggJwj0eo2nOwAquHa9Lie25kUtJf49_ljF6uGOUKMMOQKAUUmlEXebbcIuKrv10xJiX31-ct7nko9YCb-2kEpi8N5YVgTFy4fE67LB_P1f1QRM2U/s1600/IMG_0826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFYxgoRGpNgEtTOxkFBsQEejmWV6ggJwj0eo2nOwAquHa9Lie25kUtJf49_ljF6uGOUKMMOQKAUUmlEXebbcIuKrv10xJiX31-ct7nko9YCb-2kEpi8N5YVgTFy4fE67LB_P1f1QRM2U/s320/IMG_0826.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Soli Deo Gloria.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-72682944378503735722012-04-11T15:50:00.000-07:002012-04-11T15:50:15.723-07:00Winning at All CostsHow could the noble desire of winning be considered an epidemic in our culture?<br />
<br />
The problem is not that we want to win, it's that we are willing to win at <i>all</i> costs.<br />
<br />
But it's not the virtuous cost of sacrificing self for the greater good of winning the prize. Rather, it's the disastrous cost that involves sacrificing character, trust, family, and the most important human relationships for the sake of winning. This is how winning has become losing in our culture.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Are we selling our souls for 10 wins, 5 under par, .300, 50% behind the arc, or, to bring it down to the even more absurd- a high score on Angry Birds? <i>(Is it even possible to win Angry Birds? At least we used to be able to conquer our old video games. Donkey Kong would shut off after 21 levels, there was a princess to rescue on Mario & Zelda. There is nothing to win now... Maybe that's what makes modern game crack so addictive (i.e. World of Warcraft, Halo, Sim Anything, Plants Vs. Zombies...)</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Reading these quotes in the <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/sec/story/2012-04-10/bobby-petrino-fired/54160848/1?loc=interstitialskip">USAToday article</a> on the firing of Bobby Petrino is what made me want to process this (in the form of a blog rant)...</div>
<br />
<i>"'I hope he stays. He's a winner,' said 72 year old Judy Grisso. 'I don't want to judge his indescretions. We've seen so much of this lately, everywhere. Who are we to judge?'"</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>"Said Shod Neely, an industrial engineering major at Arkansas: 'I honestly don't care who he has sex with. It's irrelevant to me... I'm more worried about going back to losing than anything.'</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>"Obviously, he was stupid, but I'm more concerned about winning,' said Mark Thompsen, a 33 year old former Army sergeant who served in Iraq and is pursuing a criminal justice major at Arkansas. 'All I care about is beating Alabama and LSU. If we beat them I'm okay with it, short of him stringing someone up.'"</i><br />
<br />
There's a bit of irony in the statement that she <i>honestly</i> doesn't care about people <i>cheating</i><br />
OR<br />
saying someone is a <i>winner</i> when they've just <i>lost</i> their integrity (and worse- their family).<br />
<br />
Although the first woman wants to suspend all moral judgments ('<i>Who am I to judge?'</i>) at least the last guy has some moral backbone (i.e. Lying and cheating may be overlooked for the sake of winning, but not murder)<br />
<br />
Of course we'd all rather not have to choose, but I think these three Arkansas fans represent the not so subtle compromise of most Americans. If pushed, we would choose a coach who wins deceitfully over one who loses honestly. And it's not just sports fans who want their wins regardless of the shady means. I've seen more than a few churches turn a blind eye to a shady pastor because he's "such a great communicator." Proud and self-absorbed, but able to grow a mega-church. Neglectful of family, but preaching great sermons. Succeeding at all costs.<br />
<br />
I hear the objection, "Even though Petrino's personal life has been one big lie, he didn't break a single NCAA rule."<br />
<br />
There is always room in the rules for winning at all costs, but character should never be put on the altar of winning. So this is not a critique of Petrino's behavior as much as ours. We accept it because we want to win at all costs.<br />
<br />
And sometimes the Law (that's even bigger than the NCAA) judges us and brings us to our knees. This is where we are inclined to hope and pray that great sin will once again draw out great grace- not only for Petrino, but for me as well (had he been wearing different colors, I may have more forbearance).Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-8337219915836545582012-04-02T14:10:00.001-07:002012-04-02T14:10:16.187-07:00Vicarious Veritas UpdateSince I'm having a hard time getting my hand to the blog plow, I'll have to settle for an update through the lens of Mark and Val Duvick: <a href="http://teamduvick.wordpress.com/2012/04/01/veritas-church-our-iowa-city-church-family/">Click here</a>.<br />
<br />
Part of the bummer of living in a transient college town is saying goodbye to amazing people (sometimes it's nice to say goodbye...but not in this case). We're going to miss you guys! God has a great trail already blazed for you (Isaiah 25:1).Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-19391631640317616632011-12-13T08:44:00.000-08:002011-12-13T10:53:30.519-08:00Exhale and Give Thanks.The rhythm of college ministry allows for a deep exhale at the end of every semester. Here are some reflections on last semester.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
First, a snapshot of the last Salt Company of 2011:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_Jq6nRJEBSs" width="640"></iframe></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
There's always the big picture of what happened...</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
- The <b>largest</b> attendance at Salt Company last year was around 170. The <b>lowest</b> attendance at Salt Company this year was around 170. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
- 21 people were baptized in 2011. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
- 98 people became members of Veritas</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
- We are at about 109% of our budget... which we thought was aggressive when we planned it last year. 2012 will be an even bigger step of faith... and our people are ENERGIZED. I love what one of our elders said, "This is not a financial decision, but a spiritual one." It led to a sweet time of prayer and fasting for the year to come. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
- The largest Veritas service last year was 255; the largest this year was 365. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Here's a picture of our service from Sunday in the Coralville Convention Center (we got bumped to this "airport terminal" from our much warmer ball room)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB1-f5c-qvJAlxVFJPiGZHVZebxk-RYttxWJ4KRz-8hlrTSRd4j7CS80kzjbonR8BBHiwhdYJ415YHh2Zl5oilLxQfiEtBEtv-RsBGM-ZzXYXHOd1ht6lsXJaWhFjBFnlD5mzaBASIns/s1600/IMG_0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB1-f5c-qvJAlxVFJPiGZHVZebxk-RYttxWJ4KRz-8hlrTSRd4j7CS80kzjbonR8BBHiwhdYJ415YHh2Zl5oilLxQfiEtBEtv-RsBGM-ZzXYXHOd1ht6lsXJaWhFjBFnlD5mzaBASIns/s320/IMG_0169.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br />
I'm not going to end this blog with the conventional pastor riff that "numbers don't matter." Not when those numbers represent...<br />
<br />
People becoming followers of Jesus.<br />
Prisoners (not metaphorically speaking) getting set free and becoming part of a community.<br />
Learning how to pray while studying through Luke's gospel.<br />
Relationships being reconciled.<br />
Children growing in faith and love.<br />
People responding in love when they are told by their employer that they are not allowed to take people to church or tell them about Jesus (strategic ambiguity here...)<br />
And de-churched people realizing that just maybe the church is the hope of the world after all (an email Jeff and I received from a dad in our church)...<br />
<br />
"I just wanted to send you a quick not of encouragement about the good ways God is using Veritas. Every year since [our kids] were little, we've had a tradition that when we are having Thanksgiving dinner we go around the table and everybody talks about something that has occurred in the last year that they are thankful for. This year all five (added one this year) of them included Veritas as one of the things that happened in their lives that they're thankful for... I told them about what a thrill it is for their mother and I to watch them individually pursue their relationship with Jesus... [We] are also thankful for the work of Veritas. A year ago I was pretty much of a mindset that I was completely ok with the notion that we may never attend another church service, but God has used Veritas to show me that corporate worship can still be genuine and meaningful, and that church community still has purpose..."<br />
<br />
The kingdom of God is among us- and it is marvelous in our eyes!</div>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-38490236968802018882011-12-05T05:57:00.001-08:002011-12-05T06:01:06.329-08:00Adoleo Back in Action<a href="http://www.adoleomusic.com/">Adoleo</a> was back in the "studio" (thanks Boatmans) Friday night. Here's a little video from our recording session for the acoustic album, which will be out sometime this winter...<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jeUNvXWeGZI" width="640"></iframe>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-1886663481253827062011-11-29T13:24:00.001-08:002011-11-29T14:31:44.757-08:00Filling the Earth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We enjoyed number five so much...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Using screw driver for dinner utensils,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71S_0jazEI0ysdo93bYrJnDbzoJdBfdbYrkiFCmGyp3sOxci7WBESi7slSbhNQ7VfQBXbf0-sfqOSHeO_YCOqRwcLLq2ABXNCRnEOFFqfBqv9xru5GvFFt3QDlHB9urFo2aqsc0uhjDM/s1600/IMG_1839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71S_0jazEI0ysdo93bYrJnDbzoJdBfdbYrkiFCmGyp3sOxci7WBESi7slSbhNQ7VfQBXbf0-sfqOSHeO_YCOqRwcLLq2ABXNCRnEOFFqfBqv9xru5GvFFt3QDlHB9urFo2aqsc0uhjDM/s320/IMG_1839.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
Trying on shoes,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic99c4ikjJlftnb-u5sMZZq-OkY68uYc5ZyQUjpZc0ILJqzEVPg2-ISPSadtRowsJ5NBsVZ_PTDL3cyDN-zr0WhGTkxnScPfvLb1wYixR2PasaJGlQd8CJaGDf65CTP5rm7lxTtACj5k4/s1600/IMG_1845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic99c4ikjJlftnb-u5sMZZq-OkY68uYc5ZyQUjpZc0ILJqzEVPg2-ISPSadtRowsJ5NBsVZ_PTDL3cyDN-zr0WhGTkxnScPfvLb1wYixR2PasaJGlQd8CJaGDf65CTP5rm7lxTtACj5k4/s320/IMG_1845.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
Covered in peanut butter,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzK9_Ce7Ebe4SBhMoutp-bYBEQMszARWI-04iMLNyywBUVU3bYre12M4DYy-fEsFnTas47ThNBUYX-WUPco_9tvt_bH6L30QUa-dsnQATUXXFkh1oEivPFSCOI1UZ_jQ0jWLrKKuE3xCE/s1600/IMG_4002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzK9_Ce7Ebe4SBhMoutp-bYBEQMszARWI-04iMLNyywBUVU3bYre12M4DYy-fEsFnTas47ThNBUYX-WUPco_9tvt_bH6L30QUa-dsnQATUXXFkh1oEivPFSCOI1UZ_jQ0jWLrKKuE3xCE/s320/IMG_4002.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Using iPhone cords as repelling devices,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Yeq5FjPxpRd0ffm8mV9J9y5Dnm8vDOaFbYrectArvNo7NsWjPtqjOYPLNtt_6e7HvM_6gPHlndbijtFOH2ruj8xhS6FwgbBKGIAkaJtfIiskjbf5qfDwBt03hUqtAQzirKcKTmTakg4/s1600/IMG_4034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Yeq5FjPxpRd0ffm8mV9J9y5Dnm8vDOaFbYrectArvNo7NsWjPtqjOYPLNtt_6e7HvM_6gPHlndbijtFOH2ruj8xhS6FwgbBKGIAkaJtfIiskjbf5qfDwBt03hUqtAQzirKcKTmTakg4/s320/IMG_4034.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
Putting that green paper where it belongs,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Ns8zY7oAQ2ooAQsDI5xva1C4W4RTOueTEYFxozm9BQoyvtFD-YO0pRRDywHAfXlBTloSxmm8MQqfG1PcJsBEXADv1OyWEb8Hdm2F5VvEZH5zmhhza9R9wr8NZmc0tkF0QHem_VpQw78/s1600/IMG_4106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Ns8zY7oAQ2ooAQsDI5xva1C4W4RTOueTEYFxozm9BQoyvtFD-YO0pRRDywHAfXlBTloSxmm8MQqfG1PcJsBEXADv1OyWEb8Hdm2F5VvEZH5zmhhza9R9wr8NZmc0tkF0QHem_VpQw78/s320/IMG_4106.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Fixing some plumbing,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEier-bAoemqafhyphenhyphenOJtISi7Aj7BNx77ZkjWtYUMgyP7fsrLi42Ty0uzK4s2XQ-mucQOMXBzXIgZ9Ho2uau7sMCOqDPtLTC8kyawkuKFB-RZHNZAlz6m6Q9FWtnOkOPQySzTmfc6IHOw9Kjc/s1600/IMG_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEier-bAoemqafhyphenhyphenOJtISi7Aj7BNx77ZkjWtYUMgyP7fsrLi42Ty0uzK4s2XQ-mucQOMXBzXIgZ9Ho2uau7sMCOqDPtLTC8kyawkuKFB-RZHNZAlz6m6Q9FWtnOkOPQySzTmfc6IHOw9Kjc/s320/IMG_0008.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Helping with laundry,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kzIQxV-Et0ATZkbHJayhI5UYB4USLjuByjY5UtTk3M9slnV6mnTeBZFi9ed2T7Aah3s2viw_NmzATuuarO0iouggeUzs4MV8KiJRhb-b_LLWvQEBjK2nBohIQZ2bQLDC4Hjwuqcf6Nk/s1600/IMG_1523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kzIQxV-Et0ATZkbHJayhI5UYB4USLjuByjY5UtTk3M9slnV6mnTeBZFi9ed2T7Aah3s2viw_NmzATuuarO0iouggeUzs4MV8KiJRhb-b_LLWvQEBjK2nBohIQZ2bQLDC4Hjwuqcf6Nk/s320/IMG_1523.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
Snack time,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7X-CVuteHCvirA1ozLnww6yPHeskFKuPodeMwFIlHCXQG4gIilfPeR_UJHuxUH4WjszaRN39ImlXfvk9NrBKW4AhDa5-zQ2v8hVsE5ahgy_wgzSl3ab3ezv6aGaLtDyP7HE2AgB8_RwE/s1600/IMG_1593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7X-CVuteHCvirA1ozLnww6yPHeskFKuPodeMwFIlHCXQG4gIilfPeR_UJHuxUH4WjszaRN39ImlXfvk9NrBKW4AhDa5-zQ2v8hVsE5ahgy_wgzSl3ab3ezv6aGaLtDyP7HE2AgB8_RwE/s320/IMG_1593.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
Oops. I think the wrong kid is crying,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICPYZjA5ke0_9wKtr06cIjVkkfOFWIjPtsDVJwdNwXMMsj5KqstrIkbbRL8UJW3FFcg07s_-eLESVMce5BxedbWBH4k_004XvtCZoiccogLQzRWjct6PiGVnzWgW_7IakQPTxxFTCwBU/s1600/IMG_1595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICPYZjA5ke0_9wKtr06cIjVkkfOFWIjPtsDVJwdNwXMMsj5KqstrIkbbRL8UJW3FFcg07s_-eLESVMce5BxedbWBH4k_004XvtCZoiccogLQzRWjct6PiGVnzWgW_7IakQPTxxFTCwBU/s320/IMG_1595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
With UV rays these days, you can never be careful enough out in the sun,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1FND2mtVlOv90T_TbU3MWqbmtkKT6PPqYFUxto80v2DXvE_N9NTcF1VkJnXHrvNDyc50Q6ckOjL5rt4DJ0Q3d_61Iga9CoOFKYFk9g0dcGjKMSn_2bOgkWOvJz8QcUw6lFTSRyhcZV5I/s1600/IMG_1747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1FND2mtVlOv90T_TbU3MWqbmtkKT6PPqYFUxto80v2DXvE_N9NTcF1VkJnXHrvNDyc50Q6ckOjL5rt4DJ0Q3d_61Iga9CoOFKYFk9g0dcGjKMSn_2bOgkWOvJz8QcUw6lFTSRyhcZV5I/s320/IMG_1747.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
Sampling the best part of banana bars,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9aLn2T_FDvePbvPlAAepRwNAvpi7n3nLPl8p93MV6UkPphuWD-A2iXk4g1oZuADn0vfx29XQdj_omk-af0LehJZkj0LCqjyAHX6bUxt2sXbNN6_h9I7Pl43w947psl5HKDxhd3NJGn0/s1600/IMG_1426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9aLn2T_FDvePbvPlAAepRwNAvpi7n3nLPl8p93MV6UkPphuWD-A2iXk4g1oZuADn0vfx29XQdj_omk-af0LehJZkj0LCqjyAHX6bUxt2sXbNN6_h9I7Pl43w947psl5HKDxhd3NJGn0/s320/IMG_1426.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As I was saying, we're enjoying number five so much we thought we'd go for number six. '01-'03-'05-'07-'09...another Arant child coming in the Spring 2012.<br />
<br />
The best part of expecting #6 so far have been the comments. People have gone from excitement back in 2001 to compassion and concern in 2012...<br />
<br />
"Wow. How many do you think you'll have?"<br />
"You know what causes that, right?"(I've lost count of how many times this has been said)<br />
"At least I don't have to take care of it"<br />
"Are you sure?"<br />
"If you're happy, I'm happy"<br />
<br />
Those are just a few of the responses. Most have been very encouraging, especially...<br />
<br />
<i>"Don't you see that children are God's best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrow are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep." - Psalm 127:3-5 (from the Message)</i><br />
<br />Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-88357575238453063232011-10-19T16:39:00.000-07:002011-10-19T16:40:27.981-07:00Adoleo Worship Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last Friday around 500 people packed into the Englert theater for a night of worship. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The <a href="http://www.anthemworship.com/">Anthem band</a> kicked it off (<i>their main event will be on November 11th at Cornerstone in Ames</i>), then <a href="http://www.adoleomusic.com/">Adoleo</a> played the rest of the night. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some highlights included Voices of Soul gospel choir that joined us for an epic set of worship and Ally leading "Savior", which included crowd participation in a video project. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was sitting around thinking about how to include the crowd in the song. So I pulled 15 volunteers from the crowd with iPhones, and asked them to film the experience. I let four of them up on stage to get closer shots. We'll see at the beginning of November (<i>the video deadline</i>) whether or not that was a good idea. Here's a shot at the end of "Savior"...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYlQhDLUlWEqXIFFcOcObJ9U7XAPUrqlGCjghDWg1wa35UA6CgG_XLw5sVAFxlNXKfHJESF2CKtTZP1xk1qczdgIyTazobheZN28C-iyHTQTrTOfL6DQOOTqGjFhw3HsH9E8vC3EZ5Wo/s1600/Ally+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYlQhDLUlWEqXIFFcOcObJ9U7XAPUrqlGCjghDWg1wa35UA6CgG_XLw5sVAFxlNXKfHJESF2CKtTZP1xk1qczdgIyTazobheZN28C-iyHTQTrTOfL6DQOOTqGjFhw3HsH9E8vC3EZ5Wo/s320/Ally+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm so proud of the Adoleo team, who has spent countless hours writing, recording, producing, worshiping, and praying- this was one of those late Monday night rehearsals at an empty coffee shop...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRKOSCP9FNV8iI2pjq5uO2QC_P2LMp84bx9CvwL4cLdVTJpIMng-yYsXlur8JmOzmPHBD-PmSbYwsAFQoy2m1A8gc6Ruy4rvXX3AEV-A_alwtMUeItwAPUgu0ond4-F6Ct1nCe6T7dAo8/s1600/adoleo+rehearsal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRKOSCP9FNV8iI2pjq5uO2QC_P2LMp84bx9CvwL4cLdVTJpIMng-yYsXlur8JmOzmPHBD-PmSbYwsAFQoy2m1A8gc6Ruy4rvXX3AEV-A_alwtMUeItwAPUgu0ond4-F6Ct1nCe6T7dAo8/s320/adoleo+rehearsal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It's easier to use someone else's music that's tried and true, and there are good reasons most churches do that. But there's also something about giving our people their own voice with original music written by people in the church. It ignites latent creative juices, and energizes the people of God when they see writers using their gifts to encourage the body of Christ.<br />
<br />
At the end of the day, most of the songs will not get beyond our church walls (<i>if we had them</i>), but the offering is not for man, but God.<br />
<br />
Thus the name, Adoleo. ("I offer a sacrifice of worship")<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-18235627573813698172011-10-19T16:16:00.000-07:002011-10-19T16:17:25.398-07:00Immersed!It was a privilege to baptize my two friends, Grant and Joe. They just started attending Salt Company last year (chasing some girls) and I asked them if they would be interested in studying the Bible over the summer. Within a few months, both made decisions to follow Jesus.<br />
<br />
Here are their stories, along with a few others dunked in obedience to Christ...<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30755546?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<br />
Grant had never been to church, and Joe grew up in church. Both had different paths to understanding their need for Jesus, but ended up getting dunked in the same pool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpOFwBndY9friCctlTOXap04Dzg_l4_jnOeADay13ZhvEZcbeh3UDHO1dzm1sq6sW_Pys6P3YGx97TjQQ-ODyVdozexyOmMREhyphenhyphenmzqkP6xHGbUGEPVZxZKDA-zes78H0unEs14qJaTRk/s1600/grant+and+joe+baptized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpOFwBndY9friCctlTOXap04Dzg_l4_jnOeADay13ZhvEZcbeh3UDHO1dzm1sq6sW_Pys6P3YGx97TjQQ-ODyVdozexyOmMREhyphenhyphenmzqkP6xHGbUGEPVZxZKDA-zes78H0unEs14qJaTRk/s320/grant+and+joe+baptized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Mike! What a cool story! He's been working in the prison system for the last 25+ years. He took me on a tour of the women's prison in Mitchelville and Oakdale, a men's prison in Coralville. Both were eye opening. I thank God for a new ambassador in that arena...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pOcIT1WQr859Q0jNh36aALzhuFeLbHWLqVSWdjdMle1yvsGhN3qulT8ouZQKcscgwOaKPTtMLTSC78fIK3Z7Xw5GDy1ZCg7el3ntk9GBuLfy8wEjht2x3aiYHogMhjTzC_gFDrRSfN4/s1600/mike+baptized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pOcIT1WQr859Q0jNh36aALzhuFeLbHWLqVSWdjdMle1yvsGhN3qulT8ouZQKcscgwOaKPTtMLTSC78fIK3Z7Xw5GDy1ZCg7el3ntk9GBuLfy8wEjht2x3aiYHogMhjTzC_gFDrRSfN4/s320/mike+baptized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://vimeo.com/30755546">Baptisms - Oct 16th 2011</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/veritasiowacity">Veritas Church</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
Again we say with boldness, "To God Alone Be Glory!"Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-72050795897633370602011-10-17T10:47:00.000-07:002011-10-17T10:47:59.523-07:00It is happening.The kingdom of God is coming on earth (Iowa City) as it is in heaven. The lost are found.<br />
<br />
This is a video we showed Friday night at the <a href="http://www.adoleomusic.com/">Adoleo</a> concert. More on that soon.<br />
<br />
Raquel was baptized on Sunday with 4 others. This video is well worth 10 minutes of your life...<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30670886?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/30670886">This is my God story - Raquel</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/veritasiowacity">Veritas Church</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
SDG.Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-3411918845299494902011-10-04T08:51:00.000-07:002011-10-04T08:51:55.810-07:00Fall Retreat 2011 Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As I've stepped out of the TSC realm, this was a different retreat for me- more observer than participant. One of the highlights was the time spent with an old friend and spiritual mentor, Ed Noble. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Vw1eNGvx9RwsawHU3_UgwICZhEl7e6n8jIoawP5PQ06tBlIoehoLgBiHWLYKYQ5hkToOXgCa8kUP0u-sUsb9uQ2syD7JIIt3RvA6EodvTltrDAYmDUEYo8GkH_YJsnecYXVhpbsYpPo/s1600/IMG_1894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Vw1eNGvx9RwsawHU3_UgwICZhEl7e6n8jIoawP5PQ06tBlIoehoLgBiHWLYKYQ5hkToOXgCa8kUP0u-sUsb9uQ2syD7JIIt3RvA6EodvTltrDAYmDUEYo8GkH_YJsnecYXVhpbsYpPo/s320/IMG_1894.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was excited for our students to be led by a guy who has a deep connection with Jesus. So often our faith is something we do, not someone we love. Ed has a way of getting people from words on a page to the person Himself...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdPqumbRjtbAVzc2dlO95czcmxMAxBTfGWG-I3ahaa0ykzhkp7GYXBkh3lYfjtjtsQU9BS4c-Gefdp4kohKD_5c2ED9GhmgSjkYRNLcR3SxIJsHLPMezgxR8qgKHuQ1_m6nizo_rRCSQ/s1600/IMG_1870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdPqumbRjtbAVzc2dlO95czcmxMAxBTfGWG-I3ahaa0ykzhkp7GYXBkh3lYfjtjtsQU9BS4c-Gefdp4kohKD_5c2ED9GhmgSjkYRNLcR3SxIJsHLPMezgxR8qgKHuQ1_m6nizo_rRCSQ/s320/IMG_1870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Retreats provide not just a context for more sermons and worship, but relationships...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjDn9V2KSiDl2tT8FCElKgSGsC5fj0tHdlUbq0A3WG6Lm4UxoQewnCMMSv2McxDIf5BukmVN_S03xC9hszl4Mi-Ol4xCLVyx-E5mLAybFuUNpLpNHDOD277hEjXWd99gqZvxk_d5opBg/s1600/IMG_1866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjDn9V2KSiDl2tT8FCElKgSGsC5fj0tHdlUbq0A3WG6Lm4UxoQewnCMMSv2McxDIf5BukmVN_S03xC9hszl4Mi-Ol4xCLVyx-E5mLAybFuUNpLpNHDOD277hEjXWd99gqZvxk_d5opBg/s320/IMG_1866.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The guy worshiping with his hands up in the back row is a new Chinese believer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggL6l75ui9Hy4SeGJlhYvf1f7n3MuKEBNIfgPSmRkXm9MXna7T5R4n0fssPHwSqskRPBOzlvrKjcJK3AaDg5m23d_rSUlgkfFiLRNCYeYnvC10fosy25zjHbn09DSN_1rGMk1c9bCD0uw/s1600/IMG_1875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggL6l75ui9Hy4SeGJlhYvf1f7n3MuKEBNIfgPSmRkXm9MXna7T5R4n0fssPHwSqskRPBOzlvrKjcJK3AaDg5m23d_rSUlgkfFiLRNCYeYnvC10fosy25zjHbn09DSN_1rGMk1c9bCD0uw/s320/IMG_1875.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Saturday ended with letting go of our idols. We wrote them on these mini hot air balloons and launched them off into the night sky. Saying "adios" to idols is freeing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_7gCD1CoAnjsiYAQ_JzyOvH3j5IzKNZsaj6Wgk8W-l0mHz1qmTgEVUu71-rZNxnKKemjQ3GuRNram9HReLrOxry6kbd-xtfdVVARdOq2tlBUHtcubZViy7HeAY7e11X55NNpEXOmslc/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_7gCD1CoAnjsiYAQ_JzyOvH3j5IzKNZsaj6Wgk8W-l0mHz1qmTgEVUu71-rZNxnKKemjQ3GuRNram9HReLrOxry6kbd-xtfdVVARdOq2tlBUHtcubZViy7HeAY7e11X55NNpEXOmslc/s320/IMG_1886.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Nathan Gartin is deep in prayer... Dude cracks me up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FlIvYMu1Tq2Wv6GRpTZkj62SPPM0l_tXmGgJIjQ5ZqT7rVH3C_ZhzSDcVUtegQcD14Gr1Oc6ArkwaQ9ed6xhhKLMPU8Sw_x_L4PqNZE0TK7vgxd1tEcUXiYXAH9ynWTVXCP8etbUIvM/s1600/IMG_1890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FlIvYMu1Tq2Wv6GRpTZkj62SPPM0l_tXmGgJIjQ5ZqT7rVH3C_ZhzSDcVUtegQcD14Gr1Oc6ArkwaQ9ed6xhhKLMPU8Sw_x_L4PqNZE0TK7vgxd1tEcUXiYXAH9ynWTVXCP8etbUIvM/s320/IMG_1890.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
It was a wild weekend. Ed's flight to Cedar Rapids got cancelled Friday, along with every other flights within a 6 hour radius of Iowa. Against all odds, he managed to get here in time to speak at 10:30pm on Friday night! After getting up early on Sunday, I drove back to lead worship, Ed spoke at the retreat then sped over to Veritas where he gave sermon #5. Thune closed out the retreat then got back in time for lunch in Iowa City. We were wasted but enjoyed a last meal together with our families...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaugmhr9RFOLSts5dKLEff_ggfMjH0ZlMAgXlMRZnkSO-0g_RXblUKtGrnYuTgoklQK0QP7TorvuPOI3k0WlStKg7K0FytbFHdHTNX33nB4I_4sGbyK7JleyURtXJJBYQMCTYSeA_HiA/s1600/IMG_1903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaugmhr9RFOLSts5dKLEff_ggfMjH0ZlMAgXlMRZnkSO-0g_RXblUKtGrnYuTgoklQK0QP7TorvuPOI3k0WlStKg7K0FytbFHdHTNX33nB4I_4sGbyK7JleyURtXJJBYQMCTYSeA_HiA/s320/IMG_1903.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This retreat was a huge win for our ministry. Our students connected with Jesus and each other. People got saved, everyone made some new friends. We got some group identity.<br />
<br />
Once again, this church planting adventure is marked by the words, "Great is Thy faithfulness!"<br />
<br />
SDG.Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-15847024492510620762011-09-28T17:00:00.000-07:002011-09-28T17:00:05.091-07:00How I save 20 days of my life every yearLike a resourceful, diligent mom filing through her coupons and saving the family hundreds of dollars, every October I go to work, having saved some 20+ days of my life.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm a sports fan. And yet I realize how fleeting the whole enterprise is- that it will never be more than the candy section of life. However, as every kid knows, we all need candy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And my theory with sports is the same as with music: given enough time listening to any genre, you can learn to not only appreciate it, but enjoy it. NASCAR is currently on the brink of ruining my theory, but my recent breakthroughs in enjoying golf have given me hope that in time, I will enter the appreciation stage of the left-turn only "sport." And my friend <a href="http://witnessthecorridor.blogspot.com/2011/06/confessions-1.html">Jeff Thune's recent confession</a> about his love for country music has also confirmed my theory.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Baseball is one of those sports I have come to enjoy. This is a real problem for anyone who's not retired. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Each team plays 162 games, each lasting around three hours, spanning half the year. Assuming you don't follow any of spring training, watch any highlights or pre-game hype- that's 486 hours, or 20 days and 6 hours. Who has that kind of time on their hands? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So here's where dad-couponing comes in.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's simple but revolutionary (not to mention wise): I start watching baseball in October. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I pick up my remote control in October, <i>feeling grea</i>t about the 20 days of my life that I just saved. That month saved because I didn't watch a single out of baseball <i>easily</i> justifies the hours of playoffs and World Series which I'm about to indulge in.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And this is where dad couponing can go to the whole next level...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
DVR. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can consolidate 3 hours of baseball into about 15 minutes- or less. <a href="http://metropuritan.blogspot.com/2011/05/huge-win-for-veritas-church.html">As I've said</a>, if you're playing baseball it's 99% boredom and 1% sheer terror. (Especially in Right, where they put me.) But watching the sport is entirely different- it's 99% relaxation/therapy and 1% adrenaline rush. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As every frugal mother who's trying to stretch her budget knows, the DVR time savings totally justifies the money her husband spends on satellite TV. </div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I'm just now getting caught up on some of the baseball story lines... pennant races, possible comebacks, epic meltdowns and one game playoffs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
October, here we come.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-9050266363542735332011-09-28T08:33:00.000-07:002011-09-28T08:33:03.803-07:00N.O.B.L.E.Here's a little video for you. The latest from Jeff Thune. I wonder how he does it... pastor, preacher, and rap artist. Sabino, you out there? This one might be better than <a href="http://metropuritan.blogspot.com/2010/11/sabino-everybody-wantin-mo.html">yours from last year</a>...<br />
<br />
Last night we just passed the 100 mark for people going on our fall retreat! Today we are waiting for God and praying for Him to show up on our behalf this weekend. Please pray with us, for the students to encounter God. For this to be a break through weekend. Pray for Ed, our speaker. He'll also be preaching at Veritas on Sunday morning.<br />
<br />
N to the O to the B to the L to the E...<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/29726524?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/29726524">N. O. B. L. E.</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/veritasiowacity">Veritas Church</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-39564944318023452472011-09-27T09:51:00.000-07:002011-09-27T09:51:05.198-07:00"Waiting for You" on youtubeGiven <a href="http://blog.bitly.com/post/9887686919/you-just-shared-a-link-how-long-will-people-pay">this article</a> (props <a href="http://www.challies.com/">challies</a> for vine), I thought I should re-post it via youtube. Don't hesitate to subscribe to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/Adoleomusic">Adoleo music</a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5CSqIj4TP8o" width="640"></iframe>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-82799674088749656032011-09-26T12:37:00.000-07:002011-09-27T07:36:03.928-07:00Adoleo's "Waiting For You" Music VideoThanks to Gabe and Elena Noll (and many of our friends back at <a href="http://www.saltcompany.com/">TSC in Ames</a>) for their work on Adoleo's new music video, "Waiting for You." Well done.<br />
<br />
The end of this video left me sitting in silence, speechless. That's the appropriate visual conclusion to the whole business of waiting for God. Anyone who has ever waited on God has experienced this sort of suspense, tension, and letting go that the video captures so well.<br />
<br />
"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope." - Psalm 130:5<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/29630522?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/29630522">Adoleo - Waiting for You</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/veritasiowacity">Veritas Church</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
SDG.Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-56290485268176960292011-09-14T16:31:00.000-07:002011-09-14T16:48:49.692-07:00My friend, Dusty.Last night at <a href="http://www.saltiowacity.com/">Salt Company</a>, I spoke on the life of Josiah- "a dude completely set up with every ingredient in life for a batch of disaster and ruin."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTm3P5PGd8LxaQZmipArKnwe6BXqVJd4bhq0cNpR89UhDlRQLNzja076Pay4PIpt8hVdrj6Mvonr8bQ-6Hrp5H3OyGdQc2jW1PDibTy4ANzL8pRNlxylyET4CCr6raFjnbLhVUGeW8_Ws/s1600/TSC+large+grp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTm3P5PGd8LxaQZmipArKnwe6BXqVJd4bhq0cNpR89UhDlRQLNzja076Pay4PIpt8hVdrj6Mvonr8bQ-6Hrp5H3OyGdQc2jW1PDibTy4ANzL8pRNlxylyET4CCr6raFjnbLhVUGeW8_Ws/s320/TSC+large+grp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I use quotation marks because those are the exact words Joe Kuphal used to describe his "brother"- Dusty White. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Joe on left, Dusty on right)</span></i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy4mywZoPTw2Kd08uI7JPVgx4RXNxKog60n3zAHOZ8NGFy1B6U1u6gVAdoXXejZj8Gh0MjAkMrRQ0y0nGIi4En0DTZxD0hg85MaDiGU7psftBtVd6fqvr9Cs4NRIItnFmGzQnEHhWHNe4/s1600/Dusty+White+as+a+kid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy4mywZoPTw2Kd08uI7JPVgx4RXNxKog60n3zAHOZ8NGFy1B6U1u6gVAdoXXejZj8Gh0MjAkMrRQ0y0nGIi4En0DTZxD0hg85MaDiGU7psftBtVd6fqvr9Cs4NRIItnFmGzQnEHhWHNe4/s320/Dusty+White+as+a+kid.jpg" width="209" /></a><br />
I'm re-telling this story that I told last night, because I think there are people that need to hear those words again, <i>"There is hope for you. If you will lay hold of Him with all your heart, Jesus Christ will change everything."</i><br />
<br />
Dusty grew up in Omaha with his grandparents, and occasionally a drunk, abusive father and strung out uncle. By God's good providence, only a small open lot separated Dusty from the Kuphal family.<br />
<br />
"He took shelter at our house many times... I remember he spent the night at our house after his drunk father threw a brick at him," Joe told me in a text conversation yesterday.<br />
<br />
I asked Dusty for a picture of himself when he was little. His response, "That's assuming anyone took pictures of me when I was little."<br />
<br />
It was not the broken voice of a victim who spoke those words. It was the grace-filled chuckle of a confident man.<br />
<br />
Dusty was basically adopted by the Kuphal family, where he was constantly confronted with the good news about Jesus, not just in words, but action. Dusty's house was a war zone, the Kuphal home a refuge.<br />
<br />
When Dusty was in sixth grade, the Kuphals moved to Indiana. Sally, the Kuphal matriarch, pulled Jeff Thune aside and said, "Make sure Dusty gets to church every week."<br />
<br />
"He just kept coming," Dusty said with tears.<br />
<br />
During those teen years, surrounded by his church family, Dusty continued to put his stake in the ground for Christ. As a senior, I drove the scrawny freshman to school in my old Accord, rocking out to Keith Green on the way to Burke High. Poised to change the world, our mustard seed faith and love for Jesus propelled us into that school with good news.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to today.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYmt3phpxqg9Mp5hB8v5DCIqyfyaGEIGtKnQMJ8rT7bBTyMLOf2eqwjuxXMxuwut-JumQgztB8RBlsIE5S2npUEvdHqUJ2VSVxBd7Oayp1QRV-xg2xcGnGESBNieXqgBvHewsgFOmNKo/s1600/White_77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYmt3phpxqg9Mp5hB8v5DCIqyfyaGEIGtKnQMJ8rT7bBTyMLOf2eqwjuxXMxuwut-JumQgztB8RBlsIE5S2npUEvdHqUJ2VSVxBd7Oayp1QRV-xg2xcGnGESBNieXqgBvHewsgFOmNKo/s200/White_77.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Dusty is a pastor on staff at a church in Omaha (<a href="http://cdomaha.com/">Coram Deo</a>). He married (way up!) to Jaci, and they have 4 beautiful kids.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNi-fmgBVKhOSTP4E3qDcxm-QTz7HJmwbYNL5cI9hvsqyS9nwKunS0rX9XLNjdmwjLr7bGy6GLVrPs883Bjb9wEXWcK_wwhg1wjEE1v_ZV-p-N7WaoNCywffxiJdiVShzlltkDLqzlikM/s1600/IMG_7766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNi-fmgBVKhOSTP4E3qDcxm-QTz7HJmwbYNL5cI9hvsqyS9nwKunS0rX9XLNjdmwjLr7bGy6GLVrPs883Bjb9wEXWcK_wwhg1wjEE1v_ZV-p-N7WaoNCywffxiJdiVShzlltkDLqzlikM/s640/IMG_7766.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A couple years ago, he told me how his dad was taking advantage of his grandparents. Dusty manned up on his own dad and kicked him out of the house, making him homeless. Every so often, he would take his dad his mail.<br />
<br />
"How do you know where to find him?" I asked.<br />
Dusty simply replied, "I know where he parks."<br />
<br />
Dusty is a modern day Josiah- a reminder that every person has access to newness of life. When Jesus Christ comes into a person, He changes everything.<br />
<br />
He exhorted me to "Preach it! Tell them college kids to get a vision for their life, to shrug off all the dang excuses, and get busy living for the kingdom!"<br />
<br />
"Dusty, a dude completely set up with every ingredient in life for a batch of disaster and ruin..." Joe said, ending his text with the simple triumphant proclamation...<br />
<br />
"...God wins."<br />
<br />
To the praise of his glorious grace!Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-47821147479470756182011-09-13T13:03:00.000-07:002011-09-13T13:03:22.147-07:00Veritas One Year BirthdayFrom our perspective, we just turned one. From God's perspective, we're much older (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2025:1&version=NIV1984">Isaiah 25:1</a>). There's so much to say, and all the blog space on the internet would not be enough to tell about it. For now, I'll let this video say it for me.<br />
<br />
We showed this video on Sunday (except <a href="http://jamesfromames.wordpress.com/">James</a> played the song live with the video behind him). It will never capture all that God has done, but it is a taste of it. This new song "I can't help but love you" is one that James recently wrote. You'll have to wait for the next <a href="http://www.adoleomusic.com/">Adoleo</a> album to download it- which may not be long... December acoustic EP??<br />
<br />
If this happened in just one year, what does God have in store in the days to come?<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="425" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/29000760" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="600"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/29000760">One Year Anniversary of Veritas Church</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/veritasiowacity">Veritas Church</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
To celebrate our one year birthday on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 was beautiful irony. As evil men tear down with destructive religion, God is building his kingdom through love and grace. May that message be powerfully proclaimed through his Church.<br />
<br />
Jesus is the hope of the world.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soli_deo_gloria">SDG</a>.Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-4519435621563137402011-09-01T16:47:00.000-07:002011-09-01T17:07:05.366-07:00More evidence of the empty tomb<a href="http://kalks-homerants.blogspot.com/2011/08/night-before.html">Martin</a>, I'm so proud of the path you're on! I will never forget that Monday morning prayer meeting- you were about 5 hours old in the faith. And to think... about a year later you would stand up and say "yes" to stepping out in faith to plant the church in Iowa City. Your life speaks to the fact that Jesus is alive...
<br /><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28474321?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="400" height="225" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/28474321">This is my God story - Martin</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/veritasiowacity">Veritas Church</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</p>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309335063285317001.post-86082193640542927222011-08-29T09:18:00.000-07:002011-08-29T09:31:09.309-07:00Congrats Jason Munday...... on being featured today on youtube!<div>
<br /></div><div>The indirect connection to <a href="http://www.adoleomusic.com/">Adoleo</a>: Jason's link to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/theryanseiler">Ryan Seiler's youtube channel</a>, Seiler's link to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/Adoleomusic?blend=1&ob=5">Adoleo's youtube</a>
<br /><div>
<br /></div><div>It's a jungle out there in cyberspace!</div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><div class="module-title" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 16px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Spotlight</div><h3 style="margin-top: 6px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 3px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">On The Rise: Jason Munday</h3><div class="feedmodule-feditor" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div class="guest-editor-with-comment" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div class="guest-editor-comment" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; zoom: 1; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">The votes are in, and you've chosen singer, songwriter and producer Jason Munday as August's On The Rise winner! Jason was one-third of YouTube faves Ministry of Magic and a self-described "nerdy musician."</div></div></div></span></div>
<br /><iframe width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/tH1_QlO6lzg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Metropuritan Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03701098347633676801noreply@blogger.com0