GodSpotteRs

New Blogging Place

2010-06-08T08:36:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone,

As you can tell, I haven't blogged much here on Blogger in a loooooong time. But, I'm still blogging and writing thoughts and articles. Check it out at:

http://www.godspotters.com

It's the new website for our adoption and family ministry website.

See you there!

It's Official - We're Moving!

2009-05-14T09:11:00.008-04:00

The last several months, I haven't blogged very much for several reasons. The biggest one has been all the uncertainty we've been living with. In December, my contracting position that paid for more than 2/3 of our income ended. That meant we had to find something. Quickly, because each month we'd be digging in to savings or going deeper into debt.

We've struggled along for the past 4 months, without a clear direction, just knowing that God was in control and trusting his plan. That's been hard, as you can imagine, because when there doesn't appear to be any movement with a needed job or even with selling our house (that we could no longer afford), you wonder what God's up to. I've been through short bouts of depression, frustration, anger, doubts, and more. But, Go

d has constantly been proving himself faithful. There's been short-term contracts to build sites for churches and other groups, there's even been plenty of movement at the church to encourage us that we were being useful to God there.

Last week, though, a job offer finally appeared. Just about three weeks before, we looked into a full-time church position in Elizabeth City - and after a whirlwind of activity, they decided that I was a fit for their needs - a Pastor of Children & Families. So, in a few weeks, we'll be living in Elizabeth City.

What kind of lessons have we learned through all this (including the past 1 1/2 years?):

God is Good - all the time!
Faith isn't always felt - but it is always tested!
God can work even in unlikely places and through unlikely scenarios!

Definitely good lessons!

So, what's the plan? Our last Sunday with Mountain View is May 24th. Then, we'll pack, move the first week in June and start at New Community Church in Elizabeth City on June 7. The church is amazing - and we are so blessed by God to be able to be there and serve!

Oh, and for some awesome family photos - the growing Roten clan (thanks to Haley Cromer for the photography!).

Hair Salon Day

2009-04-25T11:50:00.000-04:00

Celeste had her latest braiding session today. She cried a bit but it turned out great.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Little girl braids

2009-04-01T10:06:00.000-04:00

Celeste had her second visit to the hair salon Tuesday. She squirmed but Lena was able to get the job done. What pretty hair!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

The newest little Roten...

2009-03-11T19:21:00.003-04:00

Well, where do we start? Several months ago, we decided that we would certainly want our children to be close in age, and as such, we'd let the adoption agency know that we are ready whenever they are. The agency requires adoptive families to wait at least a year before their next placement.

And, we figured that the amazing speed at which our adoption of Celeste occurred, that surely we wouldn't have the same experience again. Well, we were wrong. Yesterday, we received a call that we had been chosen as the parents of a little girl. It took us a few moments to understand what was being said, and for reality to set in. We had just celebrated Celeste's first birthday last week - and as much as we thought it could happen, we didn't dream that God would bring us a new little one so soon.

Today, we picked up our cute, adorable little addition - Olivia Ruth. She's perfect - 7lbs, 3 oz at birth on Feb. 27th (Yes, that means she's just over 361 days younger that Celeste!). Pray with us as we become accustomed to being parents of two little girls under the age of 13 months! You can imagine all the things we could use prayer support on - so don't be shy to life them up to our heavenly father!

Here's some pictures of our dear sweet little baby - and her big sister (who couldn't let the new one out do her, so she started walking yesterday!).

March 09 Snow

2009-03-02T13:08:00.010-05:00

Well, we waited all winter - and finally it came! Overnight, we had about 5 or more inches of snow (more because we went walking between the houses and it may have drifted to something like 8 inches in spots!). We took a walk around noon to enjoy the scenery. Happy Snow Day!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-04T09:36:00.001-05:00

Some wonderful Halloween pictures...

Being Thankful...

2008-11-01T14:36:00.001-04:00

This week, I'm starting a series of sermons on the topic of "Being Thankful." After reading this week's passage in I Chronicles 16, I decided it was time for me to come up with a list of things that I'm thankful to God about. So, here's the start of my list (hopefully over time I'll add to it, but with the realization that the list will never be completed!).

I'm Thankful to God for:
His kindness
His strength
His control of all things
His love
His stability
His compassion
His wisdom
His heart for children
His intimacy
His knowledge
His patience
His persistence
His truthfulness
His trustworthiness
His beauty
His creativitiy
His generosity
His confidence
His ingenuity
His orientation for detail
His orientation for the big picture
His selflessness
His ever-presence

...And, I can go on! But, maybe this list will help you start your own list of what is it about God that you are thankful. And, as you can tell, I didn't once say I was thankful for his salvation - which I am extremely thankful for. These are just his traits. Wait till I get to the list of all the things that he has done that I'm thankful for - wow, will that ever be a long list!

Tax Money, Vouchers, and Private Schools

2008-09-12T07:41:00.002-04:00

Here in NC, there's quite a debate going on as the race for the Governor's Mansion nears an end. The commercials say that McCrory is hurting public schools by supporting private school vouchers. As a father with a 6 month old little girl, I'm very interested in how this issue will resolve.

Years ago, I met some friends who had felt the public schools in their community did not do a good job educating their children. They decided to start a christian school that would not only allow for the teaching of biblical doctrine to their children, but would also pursue education with excellence. As many people know, sending a child to a private school isn't always about the religious aspects - many times it's because of the quality of education.

Over the years, these friends have been faithful to send their children to the school they helped found, and they continued to pay taxes to fund schools they did not use. Is this right? The public school systems, in the mid nineties, realized they needed to make changes for more school choice and started creating magnet and charter schools. These are definitely good starts, but the issue at hand is this - should some of the money a family pays in taxes to fund schools their kids do not use be refunded so they can send their child to the school of their choice.

The commercials say that the vouchers could take as much as $900 Million from the school systems in NC. I'm sure that would make it even more difficult for educators, especially considering teachers I know already suffer from low incomes, lack of technology in the classroom and lack of additional, needed resources.

But, here's my thoughts. One day, I want to have the economic freedom to send my child to a good, Christian school. I do not support everything the public school system requires to be taught, and would like to have the choice. Since economics play such a large role in that choice, I believe vouchers would be a great idea. Why should I be forced to use the public school system because of my economic status? I do understand how this will negatively impact the budgets for the public schools, but perhaps that would force even more reform in our schools, including more inclusion from local businesses, offering both monetary and technical training support.

This may certainly inflame some friends. And, in reality, I'm sure there's a lot to the issue I don't understand yet. I'm sure I will in the coming years, when Emily and I prepare to send our daughter to school!

Meet the Super Salesman...ME!

2008-08-18T21:20:00.001-04:00

OK - so, I'm not now, nor will I ever truly be a super salesman, but I have started selling old books on Amazon Marketplace. It is so cool! I started loading our books in a new program called Delicious Library (complete with a bar code scanner built to read from your web cam!) on Saturday, then yesterday clicked the "Sell on Amazon" button. It was pretty easy - and in just a day, I have already sold 5 books! It's nice to get rid of old stuff, and actually make some money - oh, and to do it from the comfort of your own home!

A busy month!

2008-08-14T20:53:00.002-04:00

As most of you know, this has been an incredibly busy time for the Rotens. For the last two weeks of July, we were dealing with Dad in the hospital, and then on Aug. 4, he passed away. Now, for the two weeks since, we have just been trying to get things organized for Mom, and trying to get some semblance of normalcy to our lives. In a week and a half, we'll be going on vacation, and we're hoping it's a restful, reading vacation with little or no drama!

Dad's death was something we'd tried to expect, since he had been sick for quite a while. But, the experience of being in the room when he died was very different than I expected. It turned out to be quite sweet - mainly because we knew that he was going on to be with the Lord. For a Christian, according to 1 Thess., we are to grieve differently - different that those who have no hope. And, I can say that so far, God has been gracious. Of course, we're missing him, and each day it becomes a little more real, but just as quickly as we start thinking about that, God brings to our mind the reality that Dad is now with Him in heaven - to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

And, this has cause me to really think on what it means to be in heaven. I've never known someone well who has died - so the reality that one moment the person is here with us and the next, he is in the presence of God is astounding. Heaven has been described is so many radically different ways over the years, it's hard to imagine what the real heaven is like. The best way to describe it, I have found, is by going back to the Garden. There, in the presence of God, the two first people worked and served God - this is the other definition of the word "Worship" it also means "Serve." And, according to Paul, in all things we are supposed to glorify God. So, heaven may be more like some of those silly stories about planting a garden in heaven, or getting to do your favorite hobby - like fishing for Dad. If we are going to be actively serving God, then, potentially we'll be doing it in a manner that here on Earth we loved - just without the distraction of selfishness or this sinful world. Interesting to think of, for sure!

Thanks again to everyone who offered prayers, support and love during this time. God is indeed good - all the time!

Smiles and Giggles

2008-07-23T10:27:00.001-04:00

Here's some of the most fun pics...

Life's a mess of fun!

2008-07-19T09:03:00.001-04:00

So, Emily and I found out this week that we really can over do it. What an incredibly busy couple of weeks it's been. The reality is that ever since we were married, it's been seemingly non-stop. Change has been such a normal part of our lives, that it's been easy to fall into overwhelmingly busy situations. Over the past two weeks, we've had: DivorceCare meetings, church services and sermons, a prayer service at church, a funeral and viewing (our first ever) to go to, youth night at our house, a visit to the parents, an overnight visit to Raleigh, and there's probably several things I'm forgetting.

But, to end this busy time on a high note - here's some great pictures of a messy and fun life!

Celeste's First Solid Foods!

2008-07-07T09:39:00.003-04:00

Our little 4 month old girl decided it was time to branch out! The pediatrician said Celeste may be ready for solid food over the next month or two, so we decided to just try it out. She ate it with gusto! The first feeding was only about a 1/3 of the bowl. Then next two - she cleared the bowls! She's our wonderful little eater!

Overnight Getaway

2008-06-28T09:21:00.006-04:00

So, we decided it was time for a quick overnight getaway - a time to recharge and relax. We decided New Bern would be great (especially since we could drop Celeste off with the grandparents on the way!). What a great place to visit - we're definitely coming back soon!

Our cute bed and breakfast!

We were just a block away from the river.

At Union Point Park.

Emily at the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola!

Our little girl is growing up!

2008-06-03T09:24:00.001-04:00

These were just some wonderful pictures of our little girl over the last few days - couldn't resist posting them for everyone.

Celeste Marie

2008-04-01T23:07:00.001-04:00

Emily and I were blessed to welcome our daughter, Celeste Marie, into our lives last month. She is a perfect little girl - and we are so very excited to be her parents!

0.266970198675494, :height=>1205.0, :y1=>0, :width=>976.0, :x2=>319.733029801325, :y2=>395, :lockProportions=>false}" src="http://lh6.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6XhX9_aI/AAAAAAAAAHE/C0nvE9NOPfs/s400/100_2234_2.JPG.jpg" height="400" original_link="http://lh6.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6XhX9_aI/AAAAAAAAAHE/C0nvE9NOPfs/s1600-h/100_2234_2.JPG.jpg" align="" width="324" style=" text-align: center; display: block; margin: 0 auto 0;" />
Here's just a few photos

0, :height=>1932.0, :y1=>0, :width=>2576.0, :x2=>320, :y2=>240, :lockProportions=>false}" src="http://lh4.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6dBX9_bI/AAAAAAAAAHM/DCGN1Gzh1ns/s400/100_2228.JPG.jpg" height="300" original_link="http://lh4.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6dBX9_bI/AAAAAAAAAHM/DCGN1Gzh1ns/s1600-h/100_2228.JPG.jpg" align="" width="400" style=" text-align: center; display: block; margin: 0 auto 0;" />

36, :height=>1865.0, :y1=>117, :width=>1316.0, :x2=>254, :y2=>426, :lockProportions=>false}" src="http://lh5.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6iRX9_cI/AAAAAAAAAHU/ZC5p6fova9s/s400/100_2235.JPG.jpg" height="400" original_link="http://lh5.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6iRX9_cI/AAAAAAAAAHU/ZC5p6fova9s/s1600-h/100_2235.JPG.jpg" align="" width="282" style=" text-align: center; display: block; margin: 0 auto 0;" />

0, :height=>1932.0, :y1=>0, :width=>2576.0, :x2=>320, :y2=>240, :lockProportions=>false}" src="http://lh3.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6oxX9_dI/AAAAAAAAAHc/uJ8z-wqy_mU/s400/100_2248.JPG.jpg" height="300" original_link="http://lh3.google.com/michaelroten/R_L6oxX9_dI/AAAAAAAAAHc/uJ8z-wqy_mU/s1600-h/100_2248.JPG.jpg" align="" width="400" style=" text-align: center; display: block; margin: 0 auto 0;" />

Following the Compass Point

2007-12-01T10:03:00.000-05:00

Recently, the world was introduced to the new movie, "The Golden Compass" based on a trilogy written by an outspoken atheist, Phillip Pullman. My wife and I have seen the trailers and both felt it would be a fun adventure to watch.

Then, I started getting emails from family and friends warning me not to go see the movie. The emails also pointed out how the movie was not appropriate for children, even though they reported it was masquerading as a "childrens" movie.

This uproar has sparked several thoughts on the subject. One relates to how we raise our kids and the other is my thoughts on whether to see the movie or not.

During the last few years, we've been blessed with movies based on works from believers including J.R.R. Tolkein and C.S. Lewis. It's easy to see how parents can begin to let their guard down when it relates to letting their children see fantasy, holiday films. However, as I prepare for the days when we have kids, my wife and I have discussed what films we would or would not allow our children to see. We're hoping we'll remember a few rules of thumb. Our children should not see a movie that we haven't thoroughly checked out. Even the movies based on Lewis and Tolkein's works are quite dramatic and frightening - not the best for children. Among the Christian community, I see so many parents trusting heresay in relation to movies, trusting that if Family B will let their kids go, then it must be OK. I believe parents must be careful - we want our children protected, which means parents have to go the extra mile and be willing to use the dreaded "N" word (yes, we can say it, the dreaded "No") for any movie that we have misgivings about. Movies are not a requirement for the upbringing of our children.

Second, as it relates to watching a movie that is based on the work of an atheist, consider the world around us. We have little to no misgivings about watching a "family" movie like "Fred Claus" that preaches that every child is good and deserves lots of presents (which definitely conflicts with what we find in scripture about the sinful nature of mankind from birth) and uses wonderful Christmas songs like, "Silent Night" with all references to Christ skillfully edited out. Is it better to watch something that is stealthfully "non-religious" or something that blatently talks about a world without a god? I would have to say that I'd rather know that the movie I watch is "non" Christian than to have one that diludes Christian values to the point that following them endangers a person to become "good" which the Bible clearly says does not get us to heaven.

So, those are my thoughts. I hope everyone chooses to see their holiday movies carefully - no matter who the author of the original work was.

What is Reverb?

2007-10-06T07:27:00.000-04:00

This week, Emily and I had the opportunity to be a part of an incredible conference in Atlanta, Ga. The Catalyst Conference brings 11,000 young church leaders from throughout the country together for a wild, action-packed two day conference. The worship time was fast-paced and authentic (complete with 20-somethings, hands-raised, and jumping high!), the speakers were provocative and radical, and the sum effect was REVERB. The theme for this year was how important our actions are to those around us. The reminder that what we do has a reverb effect to those around us was perfect. Emily and I were really encouraged about our church leadership activities - and even our activities interacting with other folks - making sure we show God's love to everyone we come in contact with.

Here are a few pics:

Our seats were just a few rows back from the stage - incredible view. We were part of a group called ICC and Daystar Fellowship church in Greensboro. Over 45 other people came with the group.

A great view from the top of the center. An amazing sight - thousands of young leaders incredibly on fire for God!

Each worship time was like a mini concert. And, all the praise was for Him!

Well, one of our favorite speakers was Dave Ramsey, a Christian financial expert. We loved it when he told the crowd that their old beat up cars that they affectionately refer to as "my Dave car" wasn't cool. See, Dave strongly recommends that people not purchase new cars because of the loss of value in the first years and to never go into debt for a car. Because of this, everyone's beat-up-but-paid-for cars carried Dave's name - he said he'd prefer us to call our newer-nice-but-paid-for cars that we can afford once we're out of debt "my Dave car."

OK - So I haven't posted lately...

2007-06-18T20:21:00.000-04:00

I'm going to use the "I've been busy" excuse this time. You know, moving tends to take up some of your time. But, I definitely wanted to post a picture of a very special gift from my lovely wife for our anniversary. Marriage is so sweet!

Yes, it's a fabulous, beautiful tool chest - 5 feet of spectacular tool storage!

House Update - a week away

2007-03-11T20:40:00.000-04:00

Yes - It's only a week away from completion! The walk-through inspection will be next Friday (today is Sunday). The following Friday is closing! It still amazes us of God's blessings on us. The house is coming together nicely. Enjoy these pics!

Emily unlocking the front door (first time unlocking - before this you could just walk in!)

Emily on the back patio with the view down the hill to the neighbors in the next development.

So much fun!

The dining room - we're already pulling it into photoshop to figure out colors!

The kitchen - appliances are in - we love it!

They're finishing up the light fixture installations.

We had to take the obligatory "Emily walking into the mud room" picture - I think this is the fourth version of it (we started it when they hung the doors)

The bathroom is looking so nice!

Wow - God Is AMAZING!

2007-02-27T19:27:00.000-05:00

Well, our new house is almost complete. The construction company is planning to complete the home on March 22. And, our house is under contract, 2 weeks after going on the market. It's been amazing! At this point, we're planning to move sometime during the week of March 24th. God has been taking care of all the details - and we're excited to trust him with the rest of the move!

Here's some pics of the new house - enjoy!

The Future Is Moving

2007-01-29T17:34:00.000-05:00

Just some great photos of our house that's under construction in Winston-Salem.

The view from our back window...

The front of the house...

Looking out the front window to the park up the hill.

Again, the front of the house (but with the excited couple!)

"Honey, I'm home!" (through the garage door)

Looking through the kitchen to the back door...

Our fireplace & media niche in the downstairs living room...

Emily shows James where our master bathroom's toilet will be (I couldn't resist posting this one!)

A Capital Vacation

2006-12-12T20:13:00.000-05:00

So, off we went to DC for a few days. My old seminary roommate offered to let us stay with him and his wife in their DC apartment - and it was perfect. Located just across the Potomac in Crystal City, we had an easy metro ride to the sites of DC.

Our first night, we ate at a cool DC diner - Ben's Chili Bowl. It's got a cool atmosphere, with pictures of famous visitors in the past, plus great hot dogs and awesome chili. Prepare yourself if you get two hotdogs plus fries - it's a lot of food for two people!

We checked out the National Cathedral - it was incredible. Such a wonderful place to go and just look at the incredible architecture God gives man the ability to craft!

We took a day to check out the monuments. It was a very busy day - lots of walking. But, we got some incredible pictures, and just enjoyed seeing sights together.

Yes - that's ice! It was so cold the reflecting pool between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial was froze over. Not solid-through though, as an unsuspecting couple near us found out (splash!).

At the end of our full day of monument walking, we got to see the sunset - a perfect DC postcard.

Our final day was Sunday. We visited Capital Hill Baptist Church - a great church just a few blocks from the Capitol. Check it out if you're ever in DC on a Sunday.

Who says you need a fireplace?

2006-12-12T20:05:00.000-05:00

We decided to hang our stockings by the fireplace! Well, it works, doesn't it? :-)

Turkey day and Christmas decorating!

2006-11-25T21:40:00.000-05:00

Well, it's hard to believe it's already the holidays! Emily and I will be celebrating our second Christmas together as a married couple in just a few weeks! This week, we visited my parents in the mountains, where my wife delivered to them an incredible feast with a beautiful turkey. We then visited our favorite tree farm in West Jefferson, looking for that perfect tree. We brought it back with us late Thursday night and decorated a couple of days later. We even got to enjoy an afternoon at the Nutcracker ballet. God has been so good to us - giving us a joyful holiday season to enjoy friends, family, and the bounty of His blessings to us! Enjoy the photos!

Summer Summary

2006-10-23T13:27:00.000-04:00

Yes, well, I know many folks have been shocked that I haven't been blogging as regularly as they expected. Well, it's just that nothing exciting's been happening. OK, that's probably not quite a true statement. During the summer, I was working two jobs - my part-time job at the church and a part-time contract programming job with a company in Hickory. It turned out to be a very heavy workload, lots to juggle, so most other things fell to the wayside.

So, God decided it was time to answer my prayers about ways to reduce my stress. In September, the church informed me that they wouldn't be able to hire me full-time starting in 2007 as expected. That was a sad note, considering the church understood that if I could only continue working both part-time jobs for the next few months (before I'd be pulling my hair out) and that I felt it was time for us to look for a full-time ministry role. Full-time could mean a regular full-time job and then a ministry role that allows me to actively help lead - so, it's not 100% based on a full-time church job.

This coming November, I'll be transitioning out of my church job and focus on my other job. Then, we'll wait to see what God opens up for us! Keep praying!

On more enjoyable notes, October turned out to be visit central for the Rotens. We had visits from the Hall family (and got to go there a few weeks later, see the pictures below) and went on a birthday weekend. Over the next few weeks, we have two more weekends planned out, plus a trip to DC in December. What an exciting time!

Here's some pics from the recent trip to Hickory. How do you like my first time carving a pumpkin?

Finally over "the mono"

2006-03-01T16:38:00.000-05:00

It's been an interesting last few weeks! About 6 weeks ago, I started feeling very tired and sore. After a couple of weeks like that, I came down with a sore throat and sick feeling. The doctor said I probably had mono - and that heart-warming prescription of "rest, sleep, no exerting yourself" but no drugs!

Took a couple more weeks to get over that part, and another to get back to feeling like I have some energy. Oh, and of course, I developed something like strep on top of mono. Thankfully, there were antibiotics for that!

But, I have to say, during the illness, I truly appreciated how much my wife took care of me and the house. She tried her best not to have me deal with any problems - just recouperate. Thanks sweetie!

And the holidays begin!

2005-11-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

Recently, it was pointed out that I haven't blogged in a while. Yes, there's very little that can be said to excuse that reality. But, in my defense, I don't like to blog unless I've got something to say that people would actually care about :-).

Since it's the holidays, and everyone loves holiday pics, here goes!

Emily and her wonderful Thanksgiving meal!

Our 7 foot tree before it was cut in West Jefferson, NC (Ashe county)

Our tree after it was put up and decorated! OUR FIRST CHRISTMAS TREE!

More living room decorations (tree reflect in mirror)

The front is decorated with frasir fir garland, wreath and lots of lights!

We went to the grocery store and came back with a kitty...

2005-08-04T21:38:00.000-04:00

Ok, not the usual title for one of my blogs, but a funny story, nonetheless. Emily and I were heading to the grocery store yesterday and a girl in front of the store had a cage of 3 kittens she needed to give away. Emily and I have been wanting a kitty... so... we impulsively took the little boy. Afterwards, we kept looking at each other, saying "Oh, my goodness...we have a kitten...oh my."

Now, we're into day 2, and well, Titus (the kitty, aka Titus Leo Roten, III) is a very rambuncious kitten. But, we are really like him. He's a bit crazy (just like a kitten, and a Roten), and, well, adorable.

So, no deep theological implications here, just a little overwhelming that we now have a responsibility when we were just settling in to married life. God is neat.

Lots of Questions

2005-07-29T21:11:00.000-04:00

I recently finished reading the New Testament (a 4 month project turned into a 10 month project thanks to the wedding and finishing up seminary). I have to say that over the years, especially after having spent time studying the history and background of the scriptures, I have grown to really enjoy reading through the different books. As a sci-fi buff, I really have to say that the book of Revelation is really one of the most interesting books. It's vivid imagery and it's prophetic voice really makes the mind wander! And, well, I am the king of the wandering mind!

So, anyway. When I was reading, there were lots of questions that kept popping into my mind. For example, of the 12 foundations of the new city, each are to be labeled with the name of the one of the 12 apostles. I started wondering who the 12 are? Is it the original twelve (and, if it is, how would that be, since I really don't think Judas will be a foundation of the city) or is it another twelve, which may include Paul, Luke or others. Then, there was the statement that there won't be anymore oceans. No oceans? This weekend, me and Emily are visiting her brother in Virginia Beach, and I have to say, the ocean is one of the most beautiful things in God's creation!

What conclusion I came to was that with God in our very presence, we would not be bothered that there wouldn't be any ocean - and big deal if the high mountains have been leveled (again in Revelation). The reality is that nothing really compares to actually living in the presence of our great God. That, of course, is a WOW kind of thought. We find ourselves so bothered by questions, and even seminaries and churches are often split in ungodly anger over the mysteries of God. How interesting that in the end, nothing else will matter - even the creature comforts and the incredibly beautiful creation that God has given us. Nothing else but the beauty of our Lord and how He has saved us to spend eternity with Him.

Again, a WOW kind of thought!

Married! (or not?)

2005-06-29T07:33:00.000-04:00

Emily and I are finally getting rested up from our busy last few weeks. June 4, our wedding day, went very well. In fact, it was one of the best days of my life. Knowing that God was joining me and Emily together formally for life was a great worship experience, and our wedding ceremony reflected that. We participated in a communion and a servant-declaring foot washing. Many individuals told us later what a biblical, spiritual experience it was.

So, the last few weeks were filled with our honeymoon in Gatlinburg, a week and a half of house set-up and returns to jobs, and then a few days at Carowinds in Charlotte for a Christian concert weekend (and a second honeymoon). Things just seemed to be getting back to normal when yesterday, our pastor received a letter. It said that our marriage license form was rejected...apparently someone forgot to put in a couple of dates. So...are we married?

Well, of course the answer is "yes." Matthew 19:6 says, "So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." There are two things that happen at Christian marriage ceremonies - they fill out legal paperwork with witnesses to gain legal recognition as married and they go before God with family and friends surrounding them, and vow to stay true to one another, entering into a holy covenant. Many people today consider marriage a contract, and once either party violates the terms of the contract, the remaining party is free to end the marriage. That, sadly, leads a lot of individuals to the big D - without really understanding that God is calling them to stay together for their entire lives. Marriage, as I'm learning, takes work, and Em and I haven't even hit any big issues. But, I know that we are in this for life, and we both know our responsibility is to God first - He is not only the author of our salvation, but our reason for living each day - married and not married.

Just 25 Days Left!

2005-05-09T08:43:00.000-04:00

If you can believe it, there's only 25 days left until Emily and I get married - that means there's only 17 days left until graduation and then my move into our new house! WOW!

God has been so good to me and Emily. I just wanted to take a moment and thank HIM for his blessings. There have been so many bumps in the road for us the last few months - car crashes, unexpected expenses and so forth - but God has always been there, seemingly one step ahead. A week before the car crash, for example, Emily and I were discussing when we'd replace her car, and that the couple we'd bought our house from was interested in selling their car, too. And, here we are a few weeks later, and that, indeed, is our path.

Matthew 6:8 says, "...for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him." What an amazing promise to rely on. When life is busy, wonderful, complicated, or in complete chaos, we can always trust in His grace and power!

One last thing - Here's a list of some folks that really have helped us over the last few months. This, by no means, is a complete list, and if someone has been left out that has made a contribution, please let me know! I would hate to overlook such special folks!

Mom and Dad (Roten)
Mom and Dad (Mattix)
Mike & Tory McCartney
Mike & LeAnne Gable
Jeremy & Kristie Smith
Michael and Mary Moore
Sarah and Kevin Spillman
Dean and Chris Mattix
Marc Brooks
Just about anyone at North Wake Church and the Woodall small group

and, yes, I'm sure I've left out some of the most important people. Good thing the internet allows you to make immediate updates to things that are published!

Too Busy?

2005-03-15T09:44:00.000-05:00

Emily and I are heading down the home stretch for our wedding preparations. And, graduation is coming up in less than 3 months, too! Oh, not to mention the freelance web design projects I have to complete and the house purchase that we're in the midst of. It is indeed a very busy time.

But, is it "too busy?" I've been belly-aching and complaining over the past several months about the crazy schedules that we're all having to keep, but our outreach pastor brought us a message on the need for intentional evangelism, in spite of our busy schedules. One point he made rang true with me. He said that God planned for each of us to be alive during this period of history - and that our lives are no busier than He wants them to be. With that said, knowing that we still have the command to "made disciples," it starts becoming evident that if God is indeed in control, we must conclude that God will provide all we need to succeed in our calling and to one day hear him say "well done."

It's amazing to think that in spite of our business, God is still at work. And, perhaps because of something in us that He placed there, we are acutely able to succeed in our callilngs by God's empowerment.

Who do we think we are?

2005-01-06T10:58:00.000-05:00

I have become convinced that many times we forget who we are. Or, maybe more importantly, what we are. Sometimes we cannot see the forest for the trees.

This may sound like an odd statement, but bear with me but a moment. When we accept Christ as our Savior and Lord, we place ourselves in subservience to Him. At that point, we do gain the righteousness of Jesus Christ, but we are still infinitely small compared to the infinitely great God. And don't forget that before knowing Christ, we aren't even alive. (Eph 2:4-5 - "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved-- ").

So - who's goals are more important? God's or ours? I think the answer is easy - God's goals are more important. And, God has promised that He will work things that were meant for evil for good, and will work all things out for the good of those who love him. A loving God by his very nature wants the best for us.

Sometimes we cannot see the forest for the trees. As we live our lives serving God, sadly we can sometimes become convinced (by our own pride or the deceitful words of the Evil One) that our niche in ministry is the only way to go, that we know best how to glorify God. We close ourselves off to good counsel, and isolate ourselves from the invigoration of knowing others who are fighting alongside us for God's glory.

Don't let this happen to you. Remember who you are and more importantly who God is. Remember the value of having others around you that can help you see the forest when you've focused on the trees nearest you. Remember to not harden yourself to the possibilities that big changes may be in store. Hey - you may even lose your segment of the forest - and if it's God's will and the forest as a whole will benefit, then to God be the glory!

Preparing for New Ministry

2004-12-29T09:23:00.000-05:00

This Sunday, I will begin working at my church as part of the Children's Ministry leadership team. It is an exciting time in my life - new apartment, new fiancee, new year and new job. It's a great blessing to be able to serve in my church that I've enjoyed so much in the last few years. Most people that are finishing up in seminary are forced to look far and wide to find ministry opportunities. It's indeed a blessing that one opened up for me at my own church!

Here's one suggestion I have to those of you who find that your friends, family members and loved ones are preparing to leave for a new ministry - be excited for them! Selfishness seems to rob us of the joy of new opportunities. Of course, it's normal to be disappointed that they aren't going to be around as much as they were. You may even feel as if they are making a mistake, or that the loss of their services may directly hinder your ability to do ministry. But, remember that God is sovereign - in control of all things. I Chronicles 29:11-12 makes it clear:

11 Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O LORD, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things. 12 Riches and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and it is at your discretion that people are made great and given strength. (NLT)

So, the next time you find out that someone is leaving to go to their next phase in ministry - trust the Lord. God may also be working to open a door for someone even better to come into your life and help you in your ministry!

The Spirit of Christmas

2004-12-25T13:03:00.000-05:00

What kind of title is that? Some washed out reference to the "peace" that Christmas stands for, right? A reference to some mystical elf spirit that brings joy to all people? No, but take a moment with me to remember Christmas 2004.

This year, I was blessed to spend the holidays with my new fiancee. We have been welcomed so graciously into each other's family, it's almost like we've always belonged there. And that is certainly a testament to God's planning in each of our lives.

One of the most memorable parts of the holiday was a time of worship. Emily and I were just coming back from my parent's home, where my parents gave us some great gifts. Mom and Dad said they knew we could really need the help. And, of course, my parents were right. On the way back, with tears in our eyes, Emily and I discussed how great our God was, how wonderful He was to place such people in our lives. Even more, we discussed how our current financial situation made it impossible for us to give much more than our gratitude and love in return for the gifts. God had chosen the holidays to teach us about humility, love and generosity all at the same time.

The next day was much the same. Emily's family treated me as if I had always been part of the family. Gifts and a family dinner - and even a family talent show afterwards. Once again, I was reminded of God's blessings this year.

And, that brings me back to the Spirit of Christmas. This year, I saw it so clearly. God's gifts to us come in the form of families who love us, gifts from them that not only meet our needs, but exceed our dreams, chances to get to know new family members and to learn more about how to minister directly to those family members. Christmas is the time of year we choose to celebrate the birth of our Savior, and it's amazing how, even in the midst of our traditions, God can stop us for a moment and redirect us directly to Him. Left to our own choices, our Christmases would remain the empty exchange of gifts that seem to be what we want most. Instead, in His sovereignty, God redirects our gaze to Himself - for His Glory we are shown the true Spirit of Christmas.

Phillipians 2:4-11
4 Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. 5 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. 7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death--even to death on a cross.9 For this reason God also highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow-- of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth-- 11 and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

A New Perspective on Work

2004-12-22T10:11:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I caught part of an interview by Dennis Rainey with a man named Robertson McQuilkin. McQuilkin resigned as president of Columbia International University in June 1990, to care for his ailing wife, Muriel. There was a question posed to him about what a drastic career change that was for him. He stated that he never looked at his work as a career. He did not consider himself career-oriented, but cause-oriented. Whatever the will of God was in your life, wherever it would lead you, that is where you went.

I thought a good bit on that, and how that would apply to my own life. It is amazing how, even as I prepare to enter full-time vocational ministry, I look at my work as a career. It's so ingrained in me to think of it that way that it's nearly impossible to have a different perspective. However, Jesus, himself, seemed to have a different perspective.

Jesus didn't enter his 3 1/2 years of public ministry with the goal to reach the top of the corporate (or ministry) ladder. He simply had a goal in mind, something that he knew beyond a shadow of a doubt was God's will in his life.

This doesn't mean we stop looking toward a future, toward meeting corporate or personal goals. It does mean, however, that we remember that there are topics, issues and projects that God would have us accomplish as we are on this earth. We are here as His ambassadors, having been given the privilege to be called children of God (2 Cor 6:18 - "I will be a Father to you, and you will be sons and daughters to Me"). And, more importantly, our causes are much greater than any career we could ever choose. Our cause is that of a living God, a Christ, who died and rose again after being born in form of a man. This season, especially, we remember, worship and rejoice in that cause.

Plunging Ahead!

2004-12-20T13:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a special day for me - a day to remember forever. I had the privilege of asking a beautiful young lady to marry me - and she said, "Yes!" I am indeed a blessed man.

As many of you are aware, having a relationship is one of God's ways of shining a magnifying glass onto your life. Everything is intensified - both the good things and the bad things. God also uses that special someone as a mirror, helping you see what is true about yourself.

James, the earthly brother of Jesus, wrote some amazing instructions concerning our daily interactions with each other:

19 This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. 22 But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.

What a wonderful challenge - listen, keep your temper in check, stop any wickedness, humbly receive God's instructions. This is important for any of our earthly relationships - whether they be with our bosses, our friends or our soon-to-be-wives.

The joyous tidings of God's love are upon us - be doers of the word, not just hearers!

Moving - When did it get so difficult?

2004-12-17T08:45:00.000-05:00

Over the last few days, as I've been finishing up exams, I also moved to a garage apartment in Raleigh (about 35 minutes away from the seminary and church). It was frustrating and tiring to move all my things out of the house I've been sharing with another seminary student, and then either take the things to a storage unit or to the (very small) apartment. I was shocked at how much stuff I've accumulated over the last 3 years living at the house.

What struck me about the move, though, wasn't that I had so many things, but that at some point, moving changed from an exciting event to a drudgery. Once upon a time, it was exciting to move to a new town, find the best routes to work, discover where the local grocery stores were, etc. I know that with maturity, one gains new perspectives, but the more I think about it, the more I think I missed something in the process. Or, better yet, I think I've started putting down roots to an extent that moving actually is painful. I leave behind good friends (yes, even moving 30 minutes away will affect relationships with people you've lived just a mile or two from), comfortable living arrangements that I've gotten accustomed to, and any number of life issues that I've been able to act upon in autopilot - going to the grocery store, getting the oil changed, running by a friend's house, etc.

But, more than those realizations, I believe we can rest assured that our problem isn't a hatred of moving, but a lack of faith. You see, it's taken me a long time to truly believe that our great God actually has my best interests at heart. I used to think that He did want to change me, reform me, but that his reformation was done out of justice, out of a harsh taskmaster mentality that couldn't stand for my sinfulness. Now, I understand that since He is love, and He is perfect, that His acts of reformation are loving. There is nothing in this life that we'll experience that He cannot use to bring us closer to Himself. Recently in a class, we read a quote by Jerry Bridges that assured us that there was no type of suffering that we could go through that, as believers in Christ, was purposeless. What a joyous way to look at trials - that they do have a purpose!

I know that moving isn't the same as losing a loved one to a tragedy or being imprisoned for sharing the Gospel, but, how much more important is it to make sure our faith is proper when it comes to the little things in life! Scripture says that "Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones." (Luke 16:10) We need to understand the Gospel everyday - that His forgiveness, love, steadfastness and grace are needed to make it through ANY situation. Anything from a tragedy in life, to a struggle with your car, to, yes, a move into a smaller apartment.

Great Quote - take it to heart

2004-12-16T14:21:00.000-05:00

Recent Quote from a professor/VP at SEBTS: "When you count your blessings, start with Jesus Himself. When you can no longer get past Him even to think of other blessings, then you will have begun to comprehend who He is." - Dr. Waylan Owens

The Semester is OVER!

2004-12-16T10:41:00.000-05:00

Seminary is a great thing. Really, it is. However, it's wonderful when the semester finally ends - all the deadlines have been met, the papers completed and tests have been taken.

This semester finished up my 3rd year at seminary. A friend of mine mentioned in a Christmas card letter that he always figured he came to seminary to go to school, but never realized how much more he would gain. Here at Southeastern, I've gained a level of maturity, spiritual growth, incredible friends and so many lessons in being poor.

But, as always, God is faithful and has helped me through a lot of hard times (but, I have to admit, as life goes, this has been fabulous!).

Take time this season to remember the faithfulness that God has shown us. He promised a savior - done. He promised a comforter - done. He promised peace - done. He promised to discipline us with love when we made mistakes - done. A person could go on and on.

By the way - if any of my family's reading this. I love you all. God has granted me with great friends and family members.

Welcome to the GodSpotteRs Blog!

2004-12-15T17:16:00.000-05:00

--- N O W O P E N ---

GodSpotterS.com is a place to learn more about our awesome God! Right now, you can learn more about a relationship with God by going to www.needhim.org!

Stay Tuned!