salt behind my ears

Sunday's Songs 7-17-11

2011-07-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the gap in weeks. It's been pretty busy around here lately. Here are the songs from yesterday at New Life Christian Fellowship! Enjoy!

1. God of Wonders - Mac Powell/Caedmon's Call
2. Come Thou Foun- Traditional Hymn (arr. David Crowder)
3. Holy Holy Holy - Traditional Hymn
4. I Want to be Close - Brad Kilman
5. Have Mercy on Me - Brad Kilman
6. Blessed Assurance - Traditional Hymn (arr. Jadon Lavik)

Finally, I'd like to leave you with Proverbs 18. Great wisdom for the 18th of July!

18 One who isolates himself pursues _⌊selfish_⌋ desires;

he rebels against all sound judgment.

²A fool does not delight in understanding,

but only wants to show off his opinions. ^b

³When a wicked man comes, contempt also does,

and along with dishonor, disgrace.

⁴The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters,

a flowing river, a fountain of wisdom.

⁵It is not good to show partiality to the guilty

by perverting the justice due the innocent.

⁶A fool’s lips lead to strife,

and his mouth provokes a beating.

⁷A fool’s mouth is his devastation,

and his lips are a trap for his life.

⁸A gossip’s words are like choice food

that goes down to one’s innermost being. ^j

⁹The one who is truly lazy in his work

is brother to a vandal. ^l

¹⁰The name of Yahweh is a strong tower;

the righteous run to it and are protected. ^o

¹¹A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city;

in his imagination it is like a high wall.

¹²Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud,

but humility comes before honor.

¹³The one who gives an answer before he listens—

this is foolishness and disgrace for him.

¹⁴A man’s spirit can endure sickness,

but who can survive a broken spirit?

¹⁵The mind of the discerning acquires knowledge,

and the ear of the wise seeks it.

¹⁶A gift opens doors for a man

and brings him before the great.

¹⁷The first to state his case seems right

until another comes and cross-examines him.

¹⁸_⌊Casting_⌋ the lot ends quarrels

and separates powerful opponents.

¹⁹An offended brother is _⌊harder to reach_⌋

than a fortified city,

and quarrels are like the bars of a fortress.

²⁰From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is satisfied;

he is filled with the product of his lips.

²¹Life and death are in the power of the tongue,

and those who love it will eat its fruit.

²²A man who finds a wife finds a good thing

and obtains favor from the Lord.

²³The poor man pleads,

but the rich one answers roughly.

²⁴A man with many friends may be harmed,

but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.

Sunday's Songs 5-22-11

2011-05-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Here are the songs we sang yesterday at New Life Christian Fellowship. Enjoy!

1. Awakening - Chris Tomlin

2. Mighty to Save - Hillsong

3. The Glory of it All - David Crowder

4. Christ is Risen - Matt Maher

5. Mystery - Charlie Hall

Sunday's Songs 5-15-11

2011-05-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Here are the songs we sang at New Life Christian Fellowship yesterday! Enjoy!

1. Cannons - Phil Wickham

2. Tower - Brad Kilman

3. Lead Me to The Cross - Hillsong

4. In Christ Alone - Stuart Townend and Keith Getty

5. Doxology - Traditional Hymn (arr. David Crowder)

6. Christ is Risen - Matt Maher

Sunday's Songs 5-8-11

2011-05-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

Here are the songs we sang at New Life Christian Fellowship on Sunday the 8th of May! Enjoy!

1. Give Us Clean Hands - Charlie Hall

2. God of Wonders - Caedmon's Call/Mac Powell

3. Before the Throne of God Above - Shane Barnard (traditional hymn)

4. You Reign on High - Brad Kilman

5. Surrender - Marc James

Have a wonderful week!

Drew

Sunday's Songs 5-1-11

2011-05-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Here are the songs we sang as the gathered body of Christ at New Life Christian Fellowship yesterday:

1. Revelation Song - Jennie Lee Riddle

2. God of Justice - Tim Hughes

3. O For A Thousand Tounges - David Crowder (traditional Hymn)

4. Words to Build a Life On - Mike Crawford

5. Sending - Charlie Hall

Sunday's Songs:4-24-11

2011-04-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Here are the songs we sang as the body of Christ at New Life Christian Fellowship on Sunday! Enjoy!

1. Marvelous Light - by Charlie Hall

2. Jesus Paid it All - traditional hymn (arr. Kristian Stanfil)

3. A Mighty Fortress is Our God - by Christy Nockels

4. Mystery - by Charlie Hall

5. Christ is Risen - by Matt Maher

Sunday's Songs: 4-17-11

2011-04-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

Here are the songs that we sung together at New Life Christian Fellowship yesterday! Enjoy!

1. Holy Holy Holy - traditional hymn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iK0Miq2xNo

2. Jesus Paid it All - traditional hymn (Kristian Stanfill arrangement)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onxhvivQYfI

3. God of Justice - Tim Hughes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TCh31xg4vA

4. You Alone Can Rescue - Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oFpbQrC7vY

5. Hosanna- Hillsong United
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4NklUj0pfc

Sunday's Songs:4-10-11

2011-04-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

Here are the songs we sang together as a family at New Life Christian Fellowship yesterday. Jonathan spoke on the Great Commission and our purpose statement as Christians and the Church. If you'd like to hear his challenging and convicting message, you can click here. As always, I'd love to see what your churches sang yesterday. Feel free to leave a comment. Enjoy!

1. Christ is Risen - Matt Maher

2. How Great Thou Art - Charlie Hall (traditional hymn)

3. God of Justice - Tim Hughes

4. God of This City - Blue Tree (Chris Tomlin Version)

5. Sending - Charlie Hall

6. Take to the World - Derek Webb

Koffee with a'Kempis:Day8

2011-04-06T18:02:00.000-07:00

From Chapter 8 of Thomas a'Kempis' Imitation of Christ

Do not open your heart to everyone, but discuss your affairs with one who is wise and fears God. Do not associate too freely with young people nor with strangers. Do not flatter those who are rich, nor be eager to be in the presence of those who are important in the eyes of the world.
Keep company with the humble and simple, with the devout and godly, and speak of those things which nurture religion.

Interesting thoughts in a day and age when we often discuss our affairs with everyone on facebook, twitter, etc. Our pastor asked us the question this week, "Would someone that looks through your facebook know how important the Gospel is to you?" I think this is a great question and one that I am ashamed to answer. While I don't ever post anything derogatory or degrading to the Gospel, I can't say that I post Gospel related things on a regular basis. I know I've gotten a bit off of what a'Kempis is saying, but It is a great question nonetheless. (Back to a'Kempis) Do we seek to keep company with the humble and simple, or do we seek to be in the presence of those who are important in the eyes of the world?

Sunday's Songs:4-3-11

2011-04-04T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here are the songs that we sang together at New Life Christian Fellowship yesterday!

1. Christ is Risen - Matt Maher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-EzVteRq1k

2. Cannons - Phil Wickham
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSo46FWGh8g

3. We Enter Your Gates - Joel Limpic
http://vimeo.com/4133700

4. Remembrance - Matt Maher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVk7jhvhrLY

5. Surrender - Marc James
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IORMvbM_x8

Enjoy!

The Truth

2011-04-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

I found this this morning and thought it was well said. I don't always like Driscol, but I think that his response is on the money. He declares the truth without trying to skewer Rob Bell or even bring his name up. I like that. He also does not shy away from speaking a hard truth. I love his analogy of yelling "fire" if the building is burning down. If you love someone that's inside the burning building, you'll tell them the good news that there is salvation. Yes, that's GOOD NEWS!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XicnbW06fbk&feature=player_embedded

Koffee with a'Kempis: Day5

2011-04-02T22:31:00.000-07:00

Chapter 5 from Thomas a'Kempis' Imitation of Christ:

In Holy Scripture we seek truth and not eloquence. All Sacred Scripture should be read in the spirit with which it was written. We should search the Scriptures for what is to our profit, rather than for niceties of language. You should read the simple and devout books as eagerly as those that are lofty and profound.

The authority of the author, whether he be of great or little learning, ought not to influence you, but let the love of pure truth draw you to read them. Do not inquire about who is the one saying this, but pay attention to what he is saying.

Men enter and pass out of this world, but the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. God speaks to all of us in a variety of ways and is no respecter of persons. Our curiosity proves a hindrance to us, for while reading the Scriptures we sometimes want to stop to debate and discuss, when we should simply read on.

If you wish to derive profit from your reading of Scripture, do it with humility, simplicity, and faith; at no time use it to gain a reputation for being one who is learned. Eagerly ask yourself questions and listen in silence to the words of the saints, and do not let the riddles of the ancients baffle you. They were written down for a definite purpose.

I find the phrase "Do not inquire about who is the one saying this, but pay attention to what he is saying." interesting. How often do we discredit someone today if we don't like them or don't like how they look or are dressed. Because of a recent encounter, this phrase is meaningful to me and something I think we should listen to. Regardless of what someone looks like or how eloquent they are, truth is truth and if they are speaking it, we should listen. I realize that a'Kempis is speaking here of the authors of Scripture, but I think it can apply to anyone who is speaking truth. Remember that all truth is God's truth regardless of where it comes from. I'm sure Jesus and John the Baptizer both looked pretty unkept and rough around the edges. I wonder how many people in our churches would listen to them if they were speaking today? I wonder how many would turn off their minds at first sight? It is my prayer that we would look for truth and pursue it with all that we are, even if that means being uncomfortable with the messenger.

Koffee with a'Kempis: Day 4

2011-04-01T10:58:00.000-07:00

Since this is a shorter chapter, I'm just going to transpose the whole thing. Yet another deeply applicable word, taken mostly from the Scriptures. (From Chapter 4 of Thomas a'Kempis' Imitation of Christ)

   We ought not to be too ready to believe every word or item of gossip, but we ought to weigh each carefully and unhurriedly before God. Alas! Our weakness is such that we are often more readily inclined to believe and speak ill of someone than that which is good. But those who are perfect do not easily give credence to every tale they hear, for they know that human nature is prone to evil and that the human tongue can be treacherous.
   It is a mark of great wisdom neither to be hasty in our actions nor stubbornly maintain our private opinions. It is also a part of wisdom neither to believe everything we hear, nor to pour it immediately into another's ear.
   Seek counsel from one who is wise and honest and ask instruction from one you esteem; do not follow your own devices. A good life makes us wise in the eyes of God and makes us knowledgeable in many things. The more humble you are in heart and the more you submit yourself to God, the wiser will you be in everything, and greater peace will be yours.

Yet again, amazingly applicable truth for life in the 21st century. I promise I'll eventually get off of this Rob Bell kick, but this just fits too well. People on both sides of the argumentation could learn a lot from the Scriptures and these words penned by a'Kempis. Instead of commenting on these words, I'm going to let them speak for themselves today. Enjoy! Grace and Peace to you!

d

Koffee with a'Kempis: Day 3

2011-03-31T14:05:00.000-07:00

Better later than never huh? Here is Day/Chapter 3 from Thomas a' Kempis' Imitation of Christ:

While I am tempted to type out the whole chapter, I will refrain and merely transcribe the highlights. What a great chapter!

   Our way of thinking and perceiving often misleads us and teaches us very little. What good is there in arguing about obscure and recondite matters, when our ignorance of such things will not be in question on the Day of Judgment? It is utter absurdity for us to neglect the things that are useful and necessary, and needlessly occupy ourselves with those that are merely curious and perhaps harmful. We have eyes, but we do not see......
   He who has a pure, simple, and constant spirit is not distracted by the many things he does, because he does all for the honor of God and endeavors to remain inwardly free of all seeking of himself. What greater hindrance or annoyance is there than our heart's uncontrolled passions....
   All perfection in this life has some imperfection mixed with it, and all speculative thought involves a certain amount of fuzziness....
   If we were as diligent in uprooting vices and planting virtues as we are in debating abstruse questions, there would not be so many evils or scandals among us nor such laxity in monastic communities. Certainly, when Judgment Day comes we shall not be asked what books we have read, but what deeds we have done; we shall not be asked how well we have debated, but how devoutly we have lived.

Ouch! Talk about convicting! For some reason I don't think God will be asking me on Judgment Day how many Giants players I can name and what their averages were. I can honestly say that the only reason I learn these things is for my own pride. While I enjoy the Giants and really enjoy watching them and cheering for them, is knowing a ton about them really "all for the honor of God"? I have to ask myself that question about a lot of things in life. Am I doing this "all for the honor of God"? How many of us have taken part in the Rob Bell debate, not because we want to see God honored, but simply because we want to sound theologically smart, or be theologically correct? Will God ask us on Judgment Day how well we skewered Rob Bell and how much of his blood is on our sword? Probably not. While I think that Theological debate is a good thing, I think it is sometimes done for the wrong reasons. While I think watching the Giants is a good thing (yes, God wants us to enjoy times of recreation and entertainment.... He created each one of the Giants too), I need to be aware of why I do what I do. Do we have a "humble knowledge of ourselves" (more words from a'Kempis) in all that we do?

Sunday's Songs: 3-27-11

2011-03-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Here are the songs that we sang together at New Life Christian Fellowship yesterday morning! Enjoy!

1. We Enter Your Gates - Joel Limpic
http://vimeo.com/4133700

2. Christ is Risen- Matt Maher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-EzVteRq1k

3. You Reign on High- Brad Kilman
http://www.bradkilmanmusic.com/

4. We Fall Down- Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCrRZc_gruU&feature=related

5. Holy Heart- Charlie Hall
http://new.music.yahoo.com/charlie-hall/tracks/holy-heart--7425448

6. I Surrender All- Jadon Lavik (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvrCpWkuxGA (couldn't find a link of him doing it)

I'd love to hear about the songs you're doing at your church! Leave a comment!

Koffee with a' Kempis: Ch. 2

2011-03-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

   Section taken from Chapter 2 of The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a' Kempis: Having a Humble Opinion of One's Self

   The more things you know and the better you know them, the more severe will your judgment be, unless you have also lived a holier life. Do not boast about the learning and skills that are yours; rather, be cautious since you do possess such knowledge.
   If it seems to you that you know many things and thoroughly understand them all, realize that there are countless other things of which you are ignorant. Be not haughty, but admit your ignorance. Why should you prefer yourself to another, when there are many who are more learned and better trained in God's law than you are? If you are looking for knowledge and a learning that is useful to you, then love to be unknown and be esteemed as nothing.
   This is the most important and most salutary lesson: to know and to despise ourselves. It is great wisdom and perfection to consider ourselves as nothing and always to judge will and highly of others. If you should see someone commit a sin or some grievous wrong, do not think of yourself as someone better, for you know not how long you will remain in your good state
   We are all frail; but think of yourself as one who is more frail than others.

Wow. a' Kempis really has a way of humbling you and then calling you to humility. This concept is so foreign to most of us. "admit your ignorance"??? Never! Most of us would rather do anything but admit our ignorance or frailness for that matter. On the contrary, I often will speak confidently in my ignorance as if there were no ignorance at all. I'm often to prideful to admit I don't know something. Like I said, humbling... convicting. Great thoughts from a' Kempis yet again. Its hard not to keep reading. I'm trying to take one chapter per day (which are really short) and focus on the concept at hand.

Koffee with a' Kempis

2011-03-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

Amazingly convicting words from Thomas a' Kempis' Imitation of Christ:

What good does it do you to be able to give a learned discourse on the Trinity, while you are without humility and thus are displeasing to the Trinity? Esoteric words neither make us holy nor righteous; only a virtuous life makes us beloved of God. I would rather experience repentance in my soul than know how to define it.
If you knew the entire Bible inside out and all the maxims of the philosophers, what good would it do you if you were, at the same time, without God's love and grace?

As I just read these words, I couldn't help but think about the whole Rob Bell firestorm and how it is being handled by a number of theologians including myself to some extent. While I think it is completely within the bounds of Scripture to disagree sharply with someone on theological grounds (see Gal. 2:11), it must be done with a spirit of humility and grace. While I might agree with some of the critiques lobbied at Bell in this instance, I can't say that the Trinity is pleased with how the whole thing has proceeded. From this point forward, I will be reading 1 Chapter of the Imitation on a daily basis and will try to post a paragraph or two with some thoughts. If you've never read a' Kempis' work, I would highly recommend it. Next to the Bible, it is the most popular Christian classic of all time and for good reason. If you're interested in joining me in reading the work, I would love to hear your thoughts as well! Even if you only read my posts, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Drew

Sunday's Songs 3-20-11

2011-03-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Here are the songs from yesterday at New Life Christian Fellowship! Enjoy!

1. You Alone Can Rescue- Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oFpbQrC7vY

2. We Enter Your Gates- Joel Limpic
http://vodpod.com/watch/1530451-joel-limpic-we-enter-your-gates

3. Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus- Jadon Lavik (traditional hymn)
http://listen.grooveshark.com/#/artist/Jadon+Lavik/49007?src=5
and
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/roots-run-deep/id273904560

4. Come Thou Fount- David Crowder (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG5ZhFN1DXk&feature=related

5. Here is Love- Matt Redman (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhYxJdz4Ut8

As always, I'd love to hear what songs you did at your churches yesterday. Feel free to comment!

In Christ,

Drew

Sunday's Songs 3-13-11

2011-03-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

Here are the songs from Sunday at NewLife Christian Fellowship! Enjoy!

1. The Solid Rock- Charlie Hall (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akOZaB-7ALQ

2. Prince of Peace- Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCuaQCr0hws

3. In Christ Alone- Traditional Hymn (cover Owl City)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnWw24s5gG8

4. A Mighty Fortress is Our God - Christy and Nathan Nockels
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULH6feeyK1U

5. Center- Charlie Hall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUwRX2HPLKY

Sunday's Songs 3-6-11

2011-03-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Here are the songs from today's service at New Life Christian Fellowship. Enjoy!

1. Blessed Assurance- Jadon Lavik (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwytNM4fuXM

2. Where the Spirit of the Lord is- Darrell Evans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRER4mZEvps

3. Prepare the Way- Charlie Hall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKcGhpBTTvo

4. Remembrance- Matt Maher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVk7jhvhrLY

5. You Reign on High- Brad Kilman (this one was on the list and I changed my mind during the sermon) here it is anyway!
http://bradkilmanmusic.com/

Sunday's Songs 2-27-11

2011-03-05T21:05:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a week late in getting this up but we moved to Pacifica!!!! And I haven't had much down time in the last week. Late as they are, here are the songs from last Sunday! Enjoy!

1. You Alone Can Rescue- Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oFpbQrC7vY

2. How Great Thou Art- Charlie Hall (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5iZsr0vJlc

3. Before the Throne- Shane and Shane (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8dlg5yBywo

4. Praise the Name of Jesus- Shane and Shane (traditional hymn)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb176qUvBXA

5. Take to the world- Derek Webb
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0FrZ8HYXJY

Sunday's Songs 2-20-11

2011-02-21T09:26:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone (or the two of you who read this... Andy and Josh)! Here are the songs from New Life Christian Fellowship's worship service yesterday. Enjoy!

1. That I May Please You - Josh Banner
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGcrSYPOuu0

2. You Alone Can Rescue - Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oFpbQrC7vY

3. Marvelous Light - Charlie Hall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAQJKZJB-kE&feature=related

4. I Will Overcome - Charlie Hall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bwf16GKfyuQ

5. Revelation Song - Jennie Lee Riddle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bL0nDrEYDnk

6. Hallelujah - Brenton Brown *Song was cut due to lack of time (here it is anyway) :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caJZ0Fqp7wM&feature=related

Sunday's Songs: 2-13-11

2011-02-14T12:26:00.000-08:00

While I was not there to worship with my wonderful church family at New Life Christian Fellowship, here are the songs that they sang. Enjoy!

1. O Worship The King - Hymn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E280L4wNs0s

2. Hosanna - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQGJdTpMUcU
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4NklUj0pfc

3. Tower - Brad Kilman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gcPF_f8c_U&feature=related

4. Holy Holy Holy - Hymn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iK0Miq2xNo&feature=related

5. Praise the Name of Jesus - Shane Barnard and Shane Everett
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb176qUvBXA

Please leave a comment and let me know if you viewed this. I'm trying to get a feel for if this is actually helpful to people or not. Thanks!

Drew

Beautiful Things

2011-02-08T14:59:00.000-08:00

In October of last year my wonderful church (New Life Christian Fellowship) sent me to David Crowder's Fantastical Music Conference. One of the bands that I discovered/heard there was Gungor. This guy is an amazing songwriter and musician with a true heart for the Lord. The more I listen to his album "Beautiful Things" the more I like it. There are so many moving parts in this band yet they all add significantly to the overall sound. Each intricate part locks in with the others to produce truly amazing songs. It truly reminds me of what we are as the body of Christ. Each one of us, as different and distinct as we may be, works together for the glory of God. Ephesians 4:1-16 captures this idea beautifully

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, ² with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, ³ eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. ⁴ There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. ⁷ But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. ⁸ Therefore it says,

“When he ascended on high he led a host of captives,

and he gave gifts to men.”

⁹ (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? ¹⁰ He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) ¹¹ And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, ¹² to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, ¹³ until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, ¹⁴ so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. ¹⁵ Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, ¹⁶ from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Here is a sample of Gungor playing the title track "Beautiful Things" live. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2f5eppTjgGM

Drew

Sunday's Songs 2-6-11

2011-02-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

Here are the songs from yesterday at New Life Christian Fellowship!

1. Praise is Rising (Hosanna) - Brenton Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VOH476VkLs

2. Chasing- Charlie Hall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvdXNtSW7vc

3. From This Time Forth- Brad Kilman
http://www.bradkilmanmusic.com/

4. Holy Holy Holy - Hymn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iK0Miq2xNo

5. Remembrance- Matt Maher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVk7jhvhrLY

6. Holy is the Lord- Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jbSNwvMDz8

Enjoy!

Sunday's Songs 1-30-11

2011-01-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

Here are the Songs from New Life Christian Fellowship's Worship Service yesterday! Enjoy!

1. Lead Me to the Cross - Hillsong United
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufJZo4kelvE

2. Mighty to Save - Hillsong United
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-08YZF87OBQ

3. Shadows - David Crowder Band
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yp1ktIj-7Vw

4. You Are God- Charlie Hall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUb-NIr7yz8&feature=related
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3don4MB6WM&feature=related

5. Blessed Assurance - Jadon Lavik
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwytNM4fuXM
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7n4hDo_rxo

6. Amazing Love - Billy Foote
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGyo8BZ8T0s

As always, feel free to post what songs you did! I'd love to see what other brothers and sisters are singing!

In Christ,

Drew

Thursday's Surf Session: 1-27-11

2011-01-29T11:10:00.000-08:00

Rolling under a wave. Thought this was a funny pic.

Big left!

Trying to Bail and getting sucked over the falls.... Ouch!

Looking for a high line.

Trying to avoid the lip!

Nice little Right

Rest and Contemplation

SOUL ARCH!

Here is a link to the video portion of this session. Enjoy!

Sunday's Songs 1-23-11

2011-01-24T18:20:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone,

I'm a little bit late in getting these up today because I've been working on getting my thesis prospectus approved and ready to go! Anyway, enjoy!

1. Revelation Song- Jennie Lee Riddle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLZvwCB6tCM

2. Words To Build a Life On - Mike Crawford
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iuv796s2sI&feature=related

3. I Surrender All - Jadon Lavik
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvrCpWkuxGA

4. Praise is Rising- Brenton Brown (we didn't actually end up playing this one because we had an amazing time of sharing that rightly took up a good portion of the service! It was amazing!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VOH476VkLs

5. Jesus Paid it All - Kristian Stanfill
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brVIlXlJRkQ

6. Here I am to Worship - Tim Hughes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqL0jnCBXro

Praise the Lord for such a wonderful day of being the church at New Life Christian Fellowship!

Sunday's Songs

2011-01-17T09:04:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! Here are the songs from New Life Christian Fellowship's Worship service yesterday!

1. Our God - Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_t_87NyHx0

2. Better is One Day - Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIq1j59R6tI

3. Revelation Song - Jennie Lee Riddle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hvk0a7SqaHI

4. God of Wonders - Caedmon's Call
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpX3i2-N-Ic

5. How Great Thou Art - Traditional Hymn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5iZsr0vJlc

Enjoy!

Sunday Songs: 1-9-2011

2011-01-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

Here are the songs from yesterday's worship service at New Life Christian Fellowship:

1. Awakening - Chris Tomlin
2. A Mighty Fortress is Our God - Christy and Nathan Nockels
3. Kindness - Chris Tomlin
4. In Christ Alone - Traditional Hymn
5. Here is Love - Matt Redman
6. Sing to the King- Billy Foote

As always, feel free to leave your set lists and thoughts! Enjoy

In Christ,

Drew

1-2-2011

2011-01-03T10:02:00.000-08:00

Our Worship Set list for yesterday at New Life Christian Fellowship:
1. Give Us Clean Hands - Charlie Hall
2. That I May Please You - Josh Banner
3. Chasing - Charlie Hall
4. Blessed Assurance - Jadon Lavik
5. Before The Throne of God Above - Shane and Shane

Again, feel free to post your lists from your churches. I'd love to see what fellow brothers and sisters are singing each week!

In Christ,

Drew

NLCF Worship

2010-12-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone,

My close friend Josh Howeth, a fellow worship pastor has asked if I would start posting our set list each week to share with him and anyone else who is interested so, here we go! Feel free to post yours if you read this and are interested!

1. Joy to the World - Christmas Carol
2. Mighty to Save - Hillsong
3. I Will Overcome - Charlie Hall
4. Marry Did You Know? - Christmas Carol
5. Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus - Jadon Lavik
6. Come Thou Fount - David Crowder
7. Take to The World - Derek Webb/ Aaron Tate

Enjoy!

d

Logos 4 for Mac

2010-09-23T19:25:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

On October 1, 2010 Logos Bible Software for Mac version 4 will be hitting the ground running! As someone who uses the software on a daily basis, I highly recommend it to any serious biblical scholar, lay-leader or just daily bible studier! In addition, they will be giving away a plethora of great things the day of the release! See here for details. In addition, here is an add! Enjoy!

Peace be upon you,

Drew

Root For the HOME team

2010-05-16T23:08:00.000-07:00

Ticket to the Giants game: $14
Rally Scarf: Free for the first 20,000 in the park
Giants Baseball Hat: $40
Feeling at Home in the Bay Area: PRICELESS

   After growing up and spending most of my life in Oklahoma, I have since moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to attend seminary. This year will make 4 and a half years that I have lived here and a couple of weeks ago, something very interesting happened. As Shannon and I were driving down the 101, I saw an Oklahoma license plate on the car in front of us and for the first time, I didn't associate it with home. I've had a California drivers license and plates for several years now but this was the first time I've really felt like a Californian at heart. While I love Oklahoma and enjoyed growing up there, this feeling of being a Californian was great! I felt like I was truly home.
   The other part of the story involves sports teams. For those of you that know me well, you know that I have always been a huge Oklahoma State fan (and always will be). About a year and a half ago, I had to come to the sad conclusion that I just wasn't going to be able to watch OSU games out here. If I'm lucky I get to see one, maybe two games a year. I finally had to make the decision to choose local teams to root for to be able to actually follow the games. After much anxiety and gnashing of teeth, I chose the Giants and the 49ers. I must say that the last year has been a blast, rooting for my local teams. While neither team has won a championship or even come close, it has been really fun feeling like a part of the city.
   Since becoming a fan, I have been wanting a Giants hat for a while now and Friday night I finally bought one! Buying that hat was a physical representation of what I felt weeks before on the 101. Putting it on there in the ball park made me feel at home. After 4 and a half years of living here, I finally realized that it was and would be my home! Call me sentimental and quirky, but the last day and a half driving around wearing my SF hat and seeing other people wearing them has made me feel more a part of the city as a whole. It is a great feeling and I look forward to calling the Bay Area...... HOME.

d

p.s. We owned the Astros 8-2, then continued Saturday and Sunday to sweep them AGAIN!

Delayed Shared experience.

2010-05-09T20:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay, Got busy over the weekend at Ross' graduation and didn't post the remainder of the songs: Here are the days and the set lists: (See Day 1 for explanation)

Wednesday:

Drew: "We laugh indoors" by Death Cab for Cutie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n02rOq9zEeE&feature=related

Ryan: "Pretend You're Alive" by Lovedrug
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHg1EH98CQ0&feature=related

Tyler: "The Moments In between" by Reign of Kindo (GREAT MUSICIANS)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUPILO5ycqg

Blake: "Middle Middle" by Daphne Loves Derby
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rlcb8sX68GM

Loper: "Love is a Fast Song" by Copeland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaN_3eXJrwE&feature=related

Thursday:

Drew: "California" by Copeland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6RLwyKdPqs

Ryan: "Big Country" by Bela Fleck and the Flecktones (AMAZING!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q50xzhDO9lI

Tyler: "Action and Action" by The Get up Kids
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FOnSFiYFQs

Blake: "Take Cover" by Acceptance
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_c83sMSBA0

Loper: "Re: Stacks" by Bon Iver

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGb690x1J74&feature=related

Friday:

Drew: "Ready and Waiting to Fall" by Mae
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOZk41SYDRQ

Ryan: "Kill" by Jimmy Eat World
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNZyIINrHPA

Tyler: "Contact" by As Cities Burn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P26wULnHFIY&feature=related

Blake: "Pin Your Wings" by Copeland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMBjypNOmeM

Loper: ----

Enjoy the music!

A Shared Experience (Day 2)

2010-05-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

The Set list for today, Tuesday the 4th of May: (see Day 1 for explanation)

Tyler: "Circles" by As Tall as Lions
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoMkiqUpVBQ&feature=related

Blake: "Angels with Enemies" by Lovedrug
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egwm-bk3tRk

Ryan: "Wounded" by Third Eye Blind
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztqdMgJkXGk

Loper: "Cry Freedom" by Dave Matthews Band
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgPjnGbCdz8

Drew: "Skyline Drive" by Mae
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-SESDF2Ol8 (would post a live version but can't seem to find one with the original members... I just can't post a "Mae" video without them.)

Enjoy Day 2,

d

A Shared Experience

2010-05-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

So today kicks off day one of "A Shared Experience" I have found over the years that there is extreme value in sharing memorable moments with friends and those closest to you. More often than not, it is the people who are with us that make the moments great and even better than the moments themselves. Last week while driving home and listening to one of my favorite albums, Jimmy Eat World's "Clarity", I was thinking about this and had an idea. I have shared some of the more memorable moments in my life either playing music or going to concerts with some of my friends. I thought it would be fun to share an experience with them even though we are on different sides of the States. I immediately thought of Ryan McGuire, Chris Loper, Tyler and Blake Evans. Each day this week, we will be picking one song each and making a playlist of the five songs. Each of us will listen to the five songs in their entirety at some point during the day. We will be sharing the experience of listening. Here is the "set list" for Monday:

Drew: "Clarity" by Jimmy Eat World on the Clarity album
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VEo4OCKwTM

Ryan: "Not up to You" by Stereophonics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IOOmBiNynE&feature=related

Blake: "Runaway" by Mae on the Destination Beautiful album
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8QXj4pWurw

Tyler: "Fishing the Sky" by The Appleseed Cast
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLvQCCfMiG0&feature=related

Loper: "A Dream for Us" by The Appleseed Cast
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIy9ojKZShs

If you want to share the experience, the youtube videos should help get you started! Enjoy!

d

A New Seed

2010-04-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

Every moment and every event of every man's life on earth plants something in his soul. For just as the wind carries thousands of winged seeds, so each moment brings with it germs of spiritual vitality that come to rest imperceptibly in the minds and wills of men. Most of these unnumbered seeds perish and are lost, because men are not prepared to receive them: for such seeds as these cannot spring up anywhere except in the good soil of freedom, spontaneity and love.

-Thomas Merton "New Seeds of Contemplation"

As I read these words, I am reminded of the Death Cab for Cutie music video for "Summer Skin" in which several elementary school kids are dressed up in business suits. While they should be playing on the playground, they are all focused. The rings on the monkey bars are being held as if they are on a subway car headed to work. The pool is drained and filled with office desks where other children are going through the motions of day to day work. The main point of the video is that each of the children should be living in the present and playing on the playground and in the pool. Instead, they have grown up too quickly and lost their childhood. I can be guilty of this. Too often, I look forward to the future so much that I miss the "seeds" or "moments" that Merton has described above. While both the past and the future are important things to contemplate, we cannot forget the present moment that we live in. If we do, we will miss out on life, and what God has for us in this time and this place. God is all around us, in every scene, in every day, in every moment. Don't miss Him!

Tax Day Surf and Turf

2010-04-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots from this morning and this afternoon. After men's breakfast, Tim and I paddled out at middle peak linda mar... It was great! glassy and slightly offshore! Then we took Carsyn on a walk down to the spit! Beautiful day!

The Fix

2010-04-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

This morning I was reading the new issue of SURFER Magazine and came across an article that I found fascinating and relevant to my own experiences over the last couple of years. The article was titled "The Fix" by Brad Melekian. The gist of the article was that surfing actually can be scientifically addicting. After interviewing Benjamin J. Levin, a a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at the American Psychiatric Association-accredited Wright Institue, Melekian noted that the physical act of riding a wave triggers the release of dopamine in our brains. "For his dissertaion, he conducted a survey of 100 randomly selected surfers over a period of 10 months in the Bay Area to test for the incidence of anxiety and depression, as well as coping responses to stress. What he found...was that they were far less likely than the general population to report symptoms of anxiety and depression." In conclusion, Melekian and Levin argue that surfing actually can change one's mood. I have found this to be true over the last several years. When I surf, my day is usually all around better. When I wake up early, go down to the beach and don't end up going for one reason or another, I see the opposite result. It is interesting that this might be more than just my attitude, or love of surfing. It could actually be a chemical response that surfing is triggering, or not triggering. Just thursday morning, Tim and I were discussing this, before I read the article. We didn't discuss any chemical response, but we did talk about how much better getting in the water makes our days. Jason and I have said this for years. It is fun to read that there is scientific proof that this is a reality for people all around the world. Surfing is truly a positive addiction!

MDiv

2010-01-16T15:33:00.000-08:00

I was cleaning out all of the pics on my computer and found one that I took toward the end of last summer. These are all of the books read over the course of my MDiv. Crazy!

Collaboration

2009-06-24T13:42:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we had about 20 friends over to our shanty for a barbeque and collaborative painting. We laid out 3 blank canvases, brushes, and paints and only had one rule; the "yes and rule". This ground rule comes from improv, where characters take what they are given at face value, and then add something else. For example, if someone walks out on the stage, and says, "Hi Dad!" I cannot say "I'm not your Dad!" I must take it as truth and add to it. You get the point. I wanted the three canvases to be one piece and have some continuity to them, so I took a piece of painters tape and taped down the middle. When the painting was finished, we took the tape up to reveal a clean white spot on all three parts. In the beginning people are very timid about "ruining the painting", but it is fun to watch people come out of their shell and begin to have fun with it. In the end I was very happy with the result. We now have a piece of a lot of our closest friends hanging on our wall. Collaboration is a beautiful thing.

makarios,

d

2009-04-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

Already today has been an eye opening day. It actually began around 3:45 am when the power to most of Mill Valley went out. With a loud boom and a great flash in the sky, we were without electricity. About that time, Carsyn woke up from her slumber and needed to be changed. Needless to say, we had no light. Luckily I have an old oil lamp that I was able to light. As it lit our house, I imagined what it was like to live before electricity became a common amenity. Immediately after that I thought about how there are still places in the world that function without electricity, shelter, and even shoes. As I knew I would be spending the day shoeless to bring awareness about TOMS shoes and what they are doing around the world, it seemed fitting that I would be without electricity as well. If you're reading this, please check out the TOMS website and consider buying a pair of shoes. They are actually quite comfortable, and when you purchase a pair, another pair is delivered to a child who lives day in and day out without them. I have now gone almost half of a day without shoes and already I am mind blown at how much of a difference they make in our daily lives. Even walking from the house to the car was a painful chore. You would imagine that living in California means warm ground temperature. You would be wrong. My feet were freezing cold and in pain from the sharp rocks and I only walked about a hundred yards.

On another note, I have been experimenting lately with concrete reminders to pray. This might sound weird, but stick with me. For example, I own a starbucks coffee mug that has a short story on the side of it telling of a boy named Manolloe who rakes coffee beans in a foreign land. When I drink coffee from this mug, I am reminded concretely to pray for migrant workers and coffee farmers; that they might be treated justly and have Christ revealed to them. I also drink out of a mug hand-made by my brother Ross. When I drink from this mug, I am reminded to pray for his healing (see roscoecunningham.blogspot.com) All of this is to say that from this day forward, shoes will be a concrete reminder to pray for children and adults in 3rd world countries and in America who don't have shoes and basic amenities. Again, if you are reading this, I invite you to join me in prayer for these people when you put on your shoes in the morning, and when you take them off at night.

makarios,

drew

April 19, 1995

2009-03-16T11:01:00.001-07:00

The Oklahoma City bombing was a domestic terrorist attack on April 19, 1995 aimed at the U.S. government in which the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, an office complex in downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was bombed. The attack claimed 168 lives and left over 800 people injured. Until the September 11, 2001 attacks, it was the deadliest act of terrorism on U.S. soil.

As I walked around the memorial this December, over Christmas break, I couldn't help but feel an extreme closeness to the events of April 19, 1995. I had not been to the site since April 20, 1995, the day after the attack. That day, the building was still partially standing, a shred of what it was just two days prior. Now there is a memorial where the building once stood. I strolled around the reflection pool snapping still shots and... reflecting. While I did not loose anyone close to me in the blast, I almost felt as if I had. I empathize with the victims and families involved in the September 11 attacks, but I am somewhat removed from NYC. This was different. This was Oklahoma City. This was home to me. This cold, overcast, December afternoon was surreal. I felt a sense of mourning and honor for those who died on that day. Between 9:01 and 9:03 am on April 19, 1995 the city was changed forever. On the other hand, I reflected on Oklahoma City's ability to persevere and be a place of redemption. Since April 19, 1995 Oklahoma City has thrived and continued to be an amazing place to live. The memorial is a great example of the city's ability to reflect on and honor the past, yet press on to newer and greater heights. While I have since moved away from Oklahoma City, I am proud to say that I grew up there, and stand in solidarity with those in the city who were victimized on that day, and those who continue to make the world a better place.

2009-03-03T15:16:00.000-08:00

Some photos I took about a month ago from above Tiburon early in the morning. Enjoy:

2008-12-02T23:21:00.000-08:00

Some more photos from Saturday morning. First Big Swell of the winter and Ft. Cronkite/Rodeo Beach was firing! Let me know what you think of the images.

-d

2008-11-29T10:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the long pause. I will try to keep more photos up on this page, but it has been a busy semester. Let me know what you think.

-d

Various Photos from around campus:

A Napa Valley Excursion

2008-08-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

Photography

2008-07-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos that I have taken recently. While in the great states of Oklahoma and Texas, Shan and I took some senior portraits for her sister Megan. I also snapped a couple of my beautiful wife! Other photos include Grace Cathedral, which I toured a couple of days ago (some beautiful things there including the indoor and outdoor labyrinths), and some pictures of Sadie our neighbors child. Enjoy!

Spring

2008-06-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

As I learn more about how this site works, I will be changing this page on a regular basis. It will be a place to host some of my photography, therefore it will be pretty simplistic. My life blogs will be kept on my xanga site. Let me know what you think about the photos. here are some pics from the semester: