I had a very interesting and challenging day yesterday.  I got up – had my breakfast – and spent some time alone with God.  I read and journaled from the book of Genesis as I’ll be talking about Joseph and Pharoah this Sunday.  Monday mornings are more relaxed for me, so I slowy read Genesis 35-45.  It was very interesting and challenged my thinking because there is much about that ancient culture I don’t fully understand.  So I had a great time reading, journaling and praying.

At 10:00 am I met a young man who is becoming a good friend – Frank – from Germany.  He was born and raised in Germany as a non-believer.  He came to America as an exchange student during High School, and was placed with a Christian family.  Their influence led him to make a decision to trust Christ.  I hope to have Frank share with us a little about his life and work on a Wednesday night in early 2009.

Normally, I go to the office on Monday afternoon to start preparing for a creative meeting I have with Jerry each Tuesday.  We meet and talk about the upcoming weekend and brainstorm ideas about the upcoming services.  However, yesterday afternoon I chose to go home for lunch and start reading a book that had been recommended to me by Jerry.  I had lunch and sat down to read a chapter or two of Mark Batterson’s book – “In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day.”  I was so enthralled with the book that I read the first 7 chapters – and wrote some more entries in my journal – which took me most of the afternoon. 

For me, reading that afternoon was one of those God moments.  It was exactly what I needed to read and hear at this time in my life as I’m trying to be a more effective leader.  In no uncertain terms – it was awesome for me and helped awaken the courage that is there but needed a prod.  I’ll probably explain a little more about this to you in a couple of weeks as we move into a new series in November.  For now, here are the last two sentences I wrote in my journal after reading yesterday afternoon.  “Pray the unthinkable.  Attempt the impossible.  Let me defy the odds and make you proud Father.” 

The dessert for the day was spending the evening with some friends from our church – Chuck & Lissa Russell.  We had dinner together, laughed, shared stories of family and faith, and all-in-all had a great time.  It was a reminder to me of the joy and blessing of friendship.

So – I had a pretty great day.  For this and the privilege of serving Christ here at GFC, I am so thankful.