Author: Wick

So Tuesday when everyone was watching, we were watching also. Addie would run up to the television screen every time Obama was on, and point and say “Presdent Obama!!” ( “i” missing on purpose). It was a pretty cool moment, especially realizing he will probably be President throughout her childhood if he goes two terms, which seems to be the trend. She will grow up to the age of 10, watching this man lead our country – for better or for worse.

Is he perfect? No. Will we still have hardships as a country and as a world? Yes. But still, I admit I’ve bought into the excitement a bit. I can’t pinpoint the source of the excitement, but I think my friend Jake, and his friend have hit on some major points – so I’ll just give a nod in their direction.

I think the Church can and must become an active player in addressing many of the issues we hope government will get involved in. As jobs are lost, money is thin, and most are too proud to admit their needs – within the context of a Church community we have the ability to be vulnerable to each other, and to help meet needs as each is able. Everyone needs that, whether they will admit it or not.

As we watch Obama during his “First 100 Days” (not sure why that is such an important amount of time, CNN?) let us not put so much hope in one man that we forget this is about ALL OF US. May we all find work we can be doing, to serve the poor, love the marginalized, and live lives of vulnerable community with one another. May God continue to be with us…

May we continue to pray for our leaders, especially during these first days where so much is on his plate. God be with Obama. Help him to President wisely, and with compassion. May we follow when it is right to follow. May we challenge our leadership when it is right to challenge.

May we live as individuals born of, and for, the Kingdom of God. Not of golden palaces and “chosen people”, but of love/forgiveness and by grace – for all. (no worries, not Universalism, but I still believe God’s plan is offered to involve all. More on Universalism tomorrow…)

“Have you heard it’s illegal to show the Superbowl in churches?”

“I guess we’ll just have to cancel this year.”

“I think we’re still gonna show it, and just hope nothing bad happens.”

Just in case you’ve heard rumors one direction or another, or were simply going to show it anyways, figuring “the Man” doesn’t care what goes on in podunk cities. Here’s a quick video that recaps law changes made from 2009 going forward. Worth a watch, whether you’re in ministry or connected to a ministry that is thinking of having a party this year….

Now, for the debates about commercial filtering, and what to do during the halftime show – I’ll leave that up to people who care more than I do. I think the commercials are usually more entertaining than the game, and the halftime show is a great time to casually sit around socializing with the people around you – with decent background music.

For halftime? I know it’s popular to show some sort of athlete who’s life was transformed by Jesus Christ, as long as it fits in the halftime slot, combined with a quick altar call, and then back to the game. Personally – I think that’s a bit silly. But I’m sure people have been transformed by such an experience, so I can’t completely discount it.

For commercials, etc? I agree, some of the commercials, halftime shows, and even cheerleaders during the game – can be a bit risque to flash up on a giant screen in front of people who have committed to reducing that type of presence in their lives. Might as well just watch Yo Gabba Gabba and call it even.

As if taking over things back in the Garden wasn’t enough.

Now they’re taking over my home. 🙂

All humor aside, this is the official announcement you’ve all been waiting for. Circa June 11th, 2009, our 3rd child – Ruby Anne Anderson – will be welcomed into this world.

Yup, another girl. 3 Girls. One wife. One me. Go ahead, make your jokes. Are we sure? Well, the same guy did the ultrasound on our first 2 girls, and he was right both times. So yeah, we’re pretty sure.

I still love it. Can’t wait for all that lies ahead. I know – it’s going to be one expensive teenage girl festival in our house someday. And eventually weddings (unless one or more of them join a convent – I’ll have to look around for a nice one). But even with all of that – I can’t help but be incredibly excited about the family we’re growing here. Yes they’re girls, but they’re MY (our) girls. I love them.

Does that mean I’ll never be able to take one of my children back and forth to hockey practice, and cheer them on as they score the winning goal, or land one awesome penalty on the jerk from the other team? Probably. (not definitely, girls can totally play hockey if they really want to) But even so, I’ll have 3 FANS to sit with me at any game we wanna go to, and shout obscenities at the opposition. (Christian obscenities of course – “you stink like sin!!”, etc.)

Ruby Anne – looking forward to your arrival. We’ve prepared a place for you, and heck – it’s already filled with princesses, ponies, and Dora. Lord be with our daughter as she continues to prepare for the world ahead….