29 Feb, 2012

twitter while driving

NASCAR driver tweets from car, gains 100,000 follow

When the Daytona 500 ran into a protracted delay following an explosion and fire on the track Monday night, NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski did what any social media addict would: grabbed his phone and began posting status updates to Twitter. Then he gained more than 100,000 followers in less than two hours.

Keselowski's fellow driver Juan Pablo Montoya crashed into a safety vehicle mid-race. The collision and jet fuel — the safety vehicle reportedly holds 200 gallons of jet kerosene — sparked a huge ball of fire, although both vehicles' drivers appeared to avoid serious injury. The race was halted. From his spot in the racecar traffic jam,Keselowski sent this tweet to his (at the time) less than 85,000 followers. More than an hour later, the race resumed. Keselowski's follower count topped 185,000.

...Keselowski then got into a wreck of his own after the race resumed. No word whether it was a case of tweeting-while driving, but he did post another message to his account minutes after his crash.

article from Mashable.com and photo courtesy of google images.

Psalms 25:4-5 - (NLT)

⁴Show me the path where I should walk, O LORD;

point out the right road for me to follow.

⁵Lead me by your truth and teach me,

for you are the God who saves me.

All day long I put my hope in you

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about how to stay on the right road?

Take a look at the study notes from Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE:

25:4 David expressed his desire for guidance. How do we receive God's guidance? The first step is to want to be guided and to realize that God's primary guidance system is in His Word, the Bible. Psalm 119 tells of the endless knowledge found in God's Word. By reading it and constantly learning from it, we will gain the wisdom to perceive God's direction for our lives. We may be tempted to demand answers from God, but David asked for direction. When we are willing to seek God, learn from His Word, and obey His commands, then we will receive His specific guidance.

We have so many distractions in our lives that often we can be sitting right next to people not saying a word but did you see what they just tweeted? and that's so 30 seconds ago. It has not been confirmed that Kesolowski's crash was because of him tweeting, or reading a tweet, but we do know his race had a crash in it. The reality for us is that we need to trust God's guidance from His Holy Word. I think if we pause and spend less time tweeting, and more time with God than on the many distractions of our social world, we might be more on His right road and be able to avoid spiritual crashes.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Confess anything in your life that you have allowed to distract you from staying on the road that God wants you to take for your life. Thank Jesus for providing the forgiveness you need right now, because He died for all of your sins. Ask His Spirit to keep you on the right road every day.

Before you tweet, or update your status, Start each day by spending time in God's Word. Entrust your day to the Him and ask him to keep you on God's road for your life.

Make a written list of what distracts you from living to please Christ every day. Review it every day until you are back on God's road again.

Whenever you are about to tweet, update, instagram, or pin something while with another person, let Jesus remind you to look out for any distractions that get you off God's road.

Put your phone, ipad, computer, droid, what ever you have down. Spend time with God away from those distractions.

Read Psalm 119.

How can you connect today's story, God's Story scripture and your story to others?

Talk to your friends about the reality of social media, and how crazy it was that the nascar driver was tweeting while in a race.

Ask your friends if they think there's a right road and a wrong road to follow in life? Talk about the distractions in life that get you off the right road sometimes. Ask your friend to describe the road he or she is on in life? Remember to be honest and a good listener no tweeting durring this talk!

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28 Feb, 2012

"A Wee Little Man ..."

Nepali villager, 72, declared world's shortest man

(Reuters) - Home to Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, the scenic country of Nepal on Sunday added another height-related superlative - of having the world's shortest man.

A Guinness World Records team measured Chandra Bahadur Dangi at 54.60 centimeters (21.5 inches), declaring the 72-year-old even shorter the previous title holder, Junrey Balawing, from the Philippines, who stood at 23.5 inches at the age of 18 last year.

"The good news is that Chandra Bahadur Dangi is the world's shortest living man," Guiness Records Editor-in-Chief Craig Glenday told reporters after measurements were taken.

"If he is really 72 years old he is the oldest person to be awarded the shortest-man record," Glenday said, adding Dangi was also the shortest person ever measured by the Guinness World Records.

From a poor and uneducated family in a remote part of Nepal, Dangi said he had never heard of Mount Everest and was unaware of the world record title before a timber merchant visited his remote village last month and decided to measure him.

His diminutive size has since made him a celebrity in the impoverished nation of 26.6 million people and he took a plane for the first time last week to travel from his village, Rimkholi, 267 km (167 miles) west of Kathmandu, to meet the Guiness World Records officials in the capital.

"I am good. I feel happy," Dangi said holding two framed certificates. "I want to travel around the world and spread the name of my country."

Dangi, whose parents died when he was still in his teens, lives with his brother with, he said, no desire to marry.

His family has no idea when he stopped growing as many Nepali villages still lack basic health care. Dangi has never seen a doctor in his life. Five of his brothers and two sisters are of normal size.

Dangi mostly stays at home, needing assistance to move around, preparing head straps used by villagers to carry loads.

Before Balawing, who was declared the shortest man in the world in June last year, another Nepali man, Khagnedra Thapa Magar, who stood 26.4 inches tall, held the title.

Story and Photo provided by reuters.com.

Luke 19:1-10 (ESV)

Jesus and Zacchaeus

1 He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3 And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” 8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about Zacchaeus?

"Zacchaeus was a wee little man, and a wee little man was he ..."

Many of you who are reading this Daily Bide may be familiar with this children's Sunday School song with the catchy tune. Zacchaeus was an important man in Jesus' story because he symbolized why Jesus came. Listen to what Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible has to say about Zacchaeus ...

When Jesus said Zacchaeus was a son of Abraham and yet was lost, he must have shocked his hearers in at least two ways: (1) They would not have liked to acknowledge that this unpopular tax collector was a fellow son of Abraham, and (2) they would not have wished to admit that sons of Abraham could be lost. But a person is not saved because of a good heritage or condemned by a bad one; faith is more important than genealogy. Jesus came to save all the lost no matter what their background or previous way of life. Through faith, the lost can be forgiven and made new.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

They crowds were getting in the way of Zacchaeus "seeing" Jesus. He wasn't about to let that happen. What is getting in the way of you seeing Jesus? Are there people in your life who are "blocking your view"? Are there habits in your life that keep you from fully experiencing what God has in store for you? If so, do what you need to do to see around them, to clear your view of Jesus.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?

Who are the "Zacchaeuses" in your life? Who are your friends who are far from God in there life? Pray for those friends today and ask God for opportunities to introduce them to His Story in your everyday conversations. Use today's story as a discussion stater about the story of Zacchaeus and see where the conversation goes.

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24 Feb, 2012

"All In!"

Tightrope walker to attempt first crossing of Niagara Falls

(Reuters) - Canada agreed on Wednesday to allow a member of the Flying Wallenda family of daredevils to attempt a tightrope walk over Niagara Falls, clearing the way for the stunt some time during the summer.

Nik Wallenda, 33, secured support on the American side of the falls last September when New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill giving him one year to perform the feat, which Wallenda says will be the first attempt in more than a century.

On Wednesday, the board of Canada's Niagara Parks Commission voted unanimously to allow Wallenda to go ahead, reversing its earlier decision.

"It's been a dream of mine since I was 6 years old," Wallenda said by telephone from Niagara, where he had earlier attended the board meeting. "This was a dream many told me was impossible: two countries to change laws. I'm blessed, that's all I can say."

The Niagara Parks Commission also passed a motion on Wednesday barring a similar stunt more than once every 20 years.

"This decision was approved in part in recognition of the role that stunting has played in the history and promotion of Niagara Falls," Janice Thomson, the chairwoman of the commission, said in a statement.

"We have made it clear that this is a very unique one-time situation. It's not an everyday activity and will not be allowed to become an everyday activity."

Wallenda, a seventh-generation member of the Wallenda family of circus performers who said he has been tightrope-walking since he was 2 years old, said he will be the first person to ever cross directly over the falls. Past attempts took place further down the gorge, he said.

"I'll be walking through the mist thrown off by the falls," he said, adding that although that may sound as though it would cause slippery conditions, his suede wire-walking shoes actually grip better when wet.

He plans to rig a 2-inch-diameter wire rope between cranes on either side of the falls, some 1,800 feet apart, he said. The date has not been set, but is expected to be in the summer.

He will continue to train on a full-scale high-wire rig on an airport runway in Pittsburgh, with simulated mist.

"I've done walks farther and higher," he said. "This will be the most iconic."

Story and Photo from reuters.com.

John 21:1-19 (ESV)

1 After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards[a] off.

9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us being "All In"?

Throughout the years I have heard quite a few messages about the similarities between our Christian faith and walking a tightrope. More often than not, that tightope is stretched across Niaga Falls. Among the most popular is a story of a man who says he believes that the tightrope walker can walk across the Falls while blindfolded AND while pushing a wheelbarrow with a man in it. The Tighrope walker then challenges the one who says he believes by asking him to be the man in the wheelbarrow. It is then that the man has to decide if he really believes in the Tightrope walker, or if he was just "talking the talk." He must decide if he is really "All In".

Today's God's Story scripture reminds us that following Jesus comes with a cost. We have to be willing to lay down our own way of life and commit to follow Him fully. After Jesus' death, Peter thought he might as well return to his old life - He went from being a fisher of fish, to a fisher of men, back to a fisher of fish. But the reality was that Jesus meant for him to continue fishing for men. He told him it was time to "get in the wheel barrell."

How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?

How fully do you trust Jesus to write your story? Are you still the one who does most of the writing?
Talk with a leader in your church's student ministry or your campus ministry about what it means to be "All In" when it comes to following Jesus.

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?

Talk with a friend about Today's Story. Ask them if it's something they would like to see. Ask them if it's something they would like to do.
Share with them the story about the man and the wheelbarrow. Ask them what it would take to trust someone enough to allow them to push them across a tightrope over Niagra Falls.
Talk with them about your trusting relationship with Jesus. And ask them their thoughts about what they hear.

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23 Feb, 2012

The Young and Exceptional

Teen Tourist Helps Police Nab Suspect at NY Airport

A teenage boy from Panama is being credited by police with helping catch a suspect described as a hustler cabbie at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.

Early Tuesday afternoon, two Port Authority police officers saw the 17-year-old boy and his family get into a limo at JFK's Terminal 4.

"When we came here, he tell us he's a cab driver, so I thought why not, you know?" said the boy, Aldo Sosa, who was on his first trip to New York with his family.

But the police officers, recognizing the driver as a hustler who charges sky-high rates, jumped into their unmarked car to chase and then try to block him with their vehicle.

The driver, identified as Bhupinder Singh, 38, of Ridgewood, N.Y., put the car in reverse and sped away, according to Port Authority spokesman Al Della Fave.

He drove several miles on the highway before Sosa, sitting in the front seat, grabbed the steering wheel.

(Story from: http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/weird/Teen-Tourist-Helps-Police-Nab-Suspect-at-NY-Airport-139939913.html)

(Picture from: http://taxidriversdirect.com/)

1 Timothy 4:12

New International Version (NIV)

¹² Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.

What does God's Story scripture teach us about what the young can accomplish?

Timothy was the student of Paul, at one point Paul even describes Timothy as his son in the faith. Timothy is a young pastor leading his first commision. He has a lot to learn and Paul knows that, but he also knows that despite Timothy's youth he is capable of setting the example for the entire church. Paul's words were written as an encouragement to Timothy, he was affirming him. "Timothy your age doesn't matter you can lead."

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

1 Timothy 4:12 is a verse every young person should memorize.
Find out what clubs at your school are trying to serve your community and join in the work.
Create a small group at your church to set an example.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

As young people you and your friends will sometimes feel overlooked. When you do, share Timothy's story, share today's verse as a reminder that you can make a difference.
Today's news story is a great reminder that little things, like grabbing a steering wheel, can have a big impact.
The biggest connection? You can make a difference in the life of your friends even though you are young.

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22 Feb, 2012

Mountain top High

Starbucks opens first Ski-through Coffee Shop

After hitting the slopes, a coffee pick-me-up is often in order. That's why Starbucks has opend its first ski-thru outlet, in Squaw Valley on Lake Tahoe, at 2400 meters above sea level. Customers can grab a coffee without having to remove their skis or snowboards.

"Nowhere else in the world can skiers and riders enjoy a delicious Starbucks coffee without missing a beat on the slopes," said squaw Valley's president and CEO.

The idea of a ski-thru Starbucks was reportedly the brainchild of BASE jumper JT Holmes, who skied in Squaw Valley with a cup of coffee in his hand.

Don't worry if you aren't much of a skiier though. The location can also be accessed without ski or snowboard equipment.

Story from huffington post, and image from google images

"I am waiting for the Lord, my soul is waiting for Him, and my hope is in His Word." Psalms 130:5

What does God's Story scripture teach us about wanting things now?

In our fast pace world we are not used to waiting for ANYTHING! Business are coming up with strategies that meet our cultures "Right Now" demands for products, and instant demand. It is a part of our lives to come to expect this kind of service and demand this amazingness like Coffee off a snow cliff. I have to admit I want to buy a lift ticket for this weekend, because it sounds like the perfect fit for my coffee loving life.

When it comes following Christ, we cannot demand things just to happen on our time. We cannot demand things are happening according to our plans. God doesn't work like a Ski-thru coffee, ready to serve and give you what you want exactly when you want it according to our own plan. There is beauty in waiting on the Lord, there is strength and grow by waiting to see what better things God has for us, things that feel like a mountain top latte all the time.

With all these demands and pressures in our lives, how often have we paused to Hope in His Word?

How can we connect today's God's Story Scripture to our lives?

What have you demanded from God? Ask Him to show you and open your soul to wait for him.

What "Plan" in your life do you need to give over to God?

Spend some extra time in God's word today, find "hope" in his word today!

How can we connect today's story, God's Story, and Our story to others?

Share the story of Starbucks on the slopes. Ask your friends if there is anything in life they would want to always have around and available to them. Talk about how for Christians God is always there for you, and that because he is all knowing he provides things in life just at the perfect time for you, often before you even know you need it. Talk about how waiting on God has so many more benifits than a machiato in a snow gloves can.

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21 Feb, 2012

Into All The World

Missions: Most Christian Missionaries Are American
At a church on the New England coast 200 years ago, five young men became ordained as Congregational missionaries and set off on cargo ships to India as the first organized group of American missionaries to travel overseas.

Their departure signaled the start of the U.S. missionary movement, and today the United States sends more Christian missionaries abroad than any other country, experts say.

The United States sent out 127,000 of the world's estimated 400,000 missionaries abroad in 2010, according to Todd Johnson, director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts.

In distant second place is Brazil, which sent 34,000 missionaries abroad in 2010, he said.

Click Here for the Full Story.

Story and Photo provided by news.google.com.

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)

18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about missionaries?

Today's God's Story scripture reminds us that all followers of Jesus are called to go into the world and make disciples. An accurate translation of the word go here is "go, and as you are going." In other words, as you are living your life, make disciples. Some of us will be called to live our lives in a foreign land, sharing the gospel with those in another culture. Others of us will be called to stay here in the states, still making disciples as we live our lives. Wherever God calls you, whether it's across the world, across the street, or even across the cafeteria at school, go, and as you are going, make disciples.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Ask God if there is a specific group of students at your school to whom He may be calling you to live out the life-changing message of Jesus.
Spend some time reading the Book of Acts this week and take a closer look at the Apostle Paul's missionary journeys that sparked growth in the early Church.
Ask God what you can do to advance His Kingdom in other parts of the world.

How can we connect Today's Story, God's Story, and Our Story to Others?

Does your church or family support an overseas missionary? Ask your family if you can spend some time praying for them today.
Does your family have a globe? If so, try this each day for the rest of this week ... Spin the globe, Put you finger out to stop the globe, Whatever country you land on pray for missionaries who serve in that country, as well as the people who live there to be responsive to the life-changing message of Jesus.
Do you know someone who has been called to be an overseas missionary? Pray for them today and send them an e-mail to encourage them in their calling.

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20 Feb, 2012

Mourning Into Dancing

Bobbi Kristina's Future: Spend More Time with Family

Now that Whitney Houston has been laid to rest, sources say her daughter Bobbi Kristina will be spending time with family and friends as she as deals with the loss of her beloved mother with whom she was incredibly close.

Denise Council, who attended the ceremony at New Hope Baptist Church on Saturday told People.com that during the ceremony "Bobbi Kristina broke down, but she was good. She was up in the front row ... and (did) pretty good, all considering."

Council added that Houston's mother Cissy was "wonderful."

One of the more moving moments of the weekend was the image of Bobby Kristina hand in hand with her grandmother, Cissy Houston, entering the Newark funeral home on Friday to say goodbye to Whitney Houston privately.

It was the first time the 18-year-old had been seen since her mother was found dead on Feb. 11.

The only child of Houston and singer Bobby Brown had been in Los Angeles with her mother to attend pre-Grammy festivities and was staying at the Beverly Hilton Hotel when Houston was found dead in her hotel room.

Whitney Houston's brother-in law, Billy Watson, told ABCNews.com that Bobbi Kristina was "doing OK" after she "broke down" the weekend Houston died and had to be taken to the hospital twice for stress and anxiety.

Bobbi Kristina spent some time with her father in California before returning to New Jersey for her mother's funeral.

Read the Full Story >>

Story and Photo from news.google.com.

Psalm 30:10-12 (ESV)

10 Hear, O Lord, and be merciful to me!

O Lord, be my helper!”

11 You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;

you have loosed my sackcloth

and clothed me with gladness,

12 that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent.

O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!

Matthew 5:4 (ESV)

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about mourning?

At some point in our life we all will experience grief and mourning when we "lose" someone close to us. Grief is a complicated process. On one hand, when we have the hope of eternal life in Jesus, we strive to focus on the joy that there is an eternity waiting for us at the end of our earthly life in which we will spend with those who follow Jesus. Yet there is still the pain and sorrow from missing that loved one from an earthly point of view. Today's God's Story scriptures remind us that our Heavenly Father will one day turn our mourning into dancing and that we will receive comfort. It may take quite a bit of time, but it will happen, as long as our hope and trust is in Him.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Are you going through a season of mourning? Ask God today to bring you one step closer to the season of dancing and comfort that He promises.
Thank God today for the hope and promise of eternal life for those who follow Jesus.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?

Do you have a friend who is experiencing a season of grief and mourning? Ask them to share some stories with you of the person they are grieving. Don't offer advice, just listen. Let them do the talking and simply be there for them in this season.
If you answered yes to having a friend who is grieving, plan ahead and organize a get together for the weekend with some friends of this friend. Being around those you care about is incredibly important to those who are grieving.
Is there someone in your life who has handled a season of grief very well? Talk with them this week. Listen to their story and listen for ways it may connect with God's Story.

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17 Feb, 2012

How Did We Miss Him?

How did everyone miss Jeremy Lin?

An undrafted Asian-American from Harvard excelling for the storied New York Knicks in the NBA's most famous arena is unlikely enough.

Marry that with a timely confluence of unpredictable events and unique circumstances, and Knicks sensation Jeremy Lin's unprecedented rise from bench warmer to global basketball star in 14 days begs the perplexing question:

How did Lin go so unnoticed for so long?

Lin's unforeseen performance — hardly an NBA coach, general manger, scout or fan saw this coming — has captivated sports fans throughout the world, including Asia, where Lin has roots. He is the NBA's first American-born player of Chinese or Taiwanese descent.

"Lin is changing perceptions of Asian-Americans, in ways that both reinforce and deeply challenge existing stereotypes," said Thad Williamson, a University of Richmond professor of leadership studies. "On the one hand, he is the prototypical high academic-achieving Asian-American. But on the other hand he is a baller who has shown he can not only compete but excel against the world's best players."

Said Knicks legend and TV analyst Walt Frazier, "This league is dominated by African-Americans. What are the odds of an Asian guy coming on and having this impact? It's amazing. It's inexplicable."

It began with a desperate attempt by coach Mike D'Antoni to jump-start the then-struggling Knicks. The answer turned out to be Lin, a 6-3, 200-pound guard with an economics degree, and faith in God, who just happened to be a perfect fit for D'Antoni's offensive system.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, who played basketball at Harvard, has developed a relationship with Lin and worked out with him on the court.

"Everyone who thinks this an overnight success fundamentally gets this wrong," Duncan said in an interview with USA TODAY. "Jeremy has been very good for a long time and just never quite had the opportunity."

Or as Knicks courtside season ticket-holder Spike Lee told a Sacramento TV station at halftime of Wednesday's Kings-Knicks game: "It's harder to slip through the cracks now, with the tape, with 900 channels. … No one saw this, so how could someone with his talent just be there and no one saw it?"

Read full story>>

Story and Photo provided by usatoday.com.

Matthew 25:31-46 (ESV)

31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’

41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ 44 Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ 45 Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ 46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about "missing him"?

Today's God's Story scripture reminds us that we never know when we might encounter Jesus through an opportunity to reach out to someone in need. Jesus is very clear in today's scripture, that there will be people who think they have been serving him, yet they will have missed the true opportunities that he sent their way. If we were to live life thinking of every encounter we have as an opportunity to serve and love Jesus, we wouldn't miss those chances.

How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?

Thank God for the opportunities you have each and every day to serve and love Jesus by serving and loving others.
Ask God to open your eyes and heart to the opportunities you might ordinarily miss today.
At the end of each day this weekend, take some time to reflect on your day and write about the ways that you were able to serve and love Jesus each day.

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?

Ask some friends if they have heard of Jeremy Lin and begin a conversation about how easy it is to overlook such potential.
Talk with some of your friends about today's God's Story scripture. Ask them if they have ever missed an opportunity to help someone else in need.
Share with those same friends that when they reach out to those in need, that they are really reaching out to Jesus.
Take some time this weekend to make a plan with some friends to serve at a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen in your community. If you need help finding one, talk with your parents or some leaders in your church.

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16 Feb, 2012

Faces

Face Off is a competition/elimination series exploring the world of special-effects make-up artists and the unlimited imagination that allows them to create amazing works of living art. The contestants are tasked with elaborate feature challenges including executing full body paint make up on models and creating their own horror villain. Not only will the show incorporate effects make-up, it will include a wide range of skill sets including prosthetics, 3-D design, sculpting, eye enhancers, casting and molding. Each episode involves incredible reveals of the competitors' finished work, and the drama of one contestant being sent home by the panel of expert and celebrity judges. It all culminates in one winner and one grand prize that will launch a career.

(Provided by: http://www.syfy.com/faceoff/about)

2 Corinthians 5:17

New Living Translation (NLT)

¹⁷ This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

What does God's Story scripture teach us about being made new?

This single verse is in the midst of a section titled, "Ministry of Reconciliation." Paul did not write that subtitle but, I'm certain he would be good with the heading. In these few verses the Apostle is reminding the church, at Corinth, that Jesus wants a relationship with them. He is reminding them that their old way of life is gone, that Jesus sacrifice has made them a new creation. The broken relationship between God and man has been reconciled.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Say a prayer of thanksgiving for the way God has worked in your life.
Ask Jesus to continue to work in each day.
Memorize 2 Corinthians 5:17 and regularly remind yourself that God has made you new.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

Over the last several weeks I have become a big fan of this TV show. The transformation that happens is sometimes unbelievable. God would like to do an unbelievable transformation in the lives of your friends.

Watch an episode of the show with a friend. Then ask what they would have done if and artist could alter their look for a day?
A little deeper share something you would alter about your life. Then ask your friend to share.
Ask what they think about Jesus making them something new?

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15 Feb, 2012

Mark it up

This weekend my mom gave me a box of my old things...

As I looked through the old book, and photo albums I came across my bible from highschool. I began to thumb through the tattered pages, seeing page after page written on and full of color and life lessons learned.

Since I was young I always had a great respect for police officers, firemen, doctors, old people, and the bible. As I grew up i thought that the bible was something I had to be very careful with to not damage. I remember in sunday school being petrified when someone took out a pen and highlighted something, and shocked when a highlighter was handed to me. "What?? Write IN the bible?" I began to realize that it was ok to write in my bible not just on the first page in the specific lines given to me to write my name. This opened up a new adventure to me where I could highlight, underline, bracket, & even write a statement or question in the margin. gasp'

I cannot really say where this fear came from originally, but I do know that writing in my bible allowed me to find a deep place in my relationship that was more personal than i thought possible. I found that being able to journal in my bible brought me life and joy to express my heart, & when God brought me back to a passage I was able to recall old lessons and get deeper and even provide myself insight to myself from my old notes.

2 timothy 3:16-17

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.

Colossians 3:16

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

What does today's God's Story Scripture teach us about learning His word?

God doesn't want you to be fearful of him. He wants to have a personal relationship with you. He wants to write love letters back and forth with you in the midst of his words. He wants you to gain more understanding of his law, and to walk deeper with him. We all learn differently but the more we write, highlight, rewrite, the more the "word of christ can dwell in you"

How can we connect today's God's story scripture to our lives?

Pick the option that fits you best:

OPTION 1: I write in my Bible constantly: take time this week to flip back through some pages and read through the notes as God to show you something new. Enjoy the and take note of the journey God has taken you on.

OPTION 2: I cant remember the last time i wrote in my bible: pick a passage of your choice. Grab a pen, grab a highlighter, Get comfortable. read through the passage and highlight anything of interest to you, it could be a word, phrase, and or entire verse. But start writing in your bible.

OPTION 3: You can write in your bible??: YES, be prepared to have fun! This is not your library book but your personal notebook/journal/ & love letter with God. Spend time like in Option 2, and spend time in the word, and step out of your comfort zone and get messy. Messy is beautiful!

How can i connect Today's Story, and my story to others?

God can be scary for many people, but the reality is that God is a personal God. Ask your friends if they write in books? Ask them if there are books they don't write in? Ask Why they(or others) write in books?

Talk with your friends about something you learned, talk about how people are often afraid of writing in it like its a library book and they will be fined. share where you are with writing in your bible and how its a personal not scary thing.

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14 Feb, 2012

Whitney's Last Song ...

In her last public performance, Whitney Houston sang an impromptu tribute to young singer Kelly Price as fans went wild. Two nights later she was dead. Houston sang a few bars of "Yes, Jesus Loves Me" in a soulful, husky voice as fans screamed at a pre-Grammy party featuring Price and friends.

Story excerpt and photo provided by news.google.com.

Romans 14:10-12 (ESV)

10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; 11 for it is written,

“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me,

and every tongue shall confess to God.”

12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us our last song?

One way or another, everyone who has ever lived or will ever live will bow their knee and confess that Jesus is Lord of all. The amazing thing about God's grace is that it doesn't matter how good or how bad our life is. What matters is that we confess that He is lord. While I am not making a statement about where Whitney Houston will spend eternity, I do know, that when someone truly confesses their need for Jesus, that heaven awaits.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

If you know the song "Jesus Loves Me," find somewhere you can be alone and sing it out at the top of your lungs.
On this day when Valentine Cards are being given, write a Valentine to Jesus, thanking Him for his love for you and expressing your love for him.
If you could pick a final song to sing in this life before you meet Jesus, what would it be?

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story to Others?

Ask a friend if they heard the story of Whitney Houston's final performance.
Talk with them about the love that Jesus has for them.
Ask that friend if they could pick their final song to sing in this life what it would be. Use their response to take them deeper into God's Story. Be prepared to share the song that you picked as your final song.

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13 Feb, 2012

Called

Last week, over 500 Youth for Christ staff from around the country gathered in Denver, Colorado for our MidWinter Staff Conference. The theme this year was "Called." Over the course of four days, we were challenged to get in touch with that to which we are called. How about you? What is your calling?

Photo property of YFC/USA.

Ephesians 4:1-6 (ESV)

1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being called?

It wasn't that many years ago that the word "vocation" was used much more often than it is today. The primary definition of the word is, a summons or strong inclination to a particular state or course of action (merriam-webster.com). The origin of the word is to be called. So to what are you called?

First of all, it is clear from God's Story that we are called to be holy. This is our primary calling. Whatever path our life takes, it will be a path to make us more like the Jesus we follow. Second, God has a role for all who follow him to bring unity to His Kingdom. We are the "Body" of Christ and each part of the body has a specific purpose. What's your purpose? In other words, what has God created you to be and do in His Kingdom? Our calling is simply getting in touch with what God created us to be and do in the first place.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

As you spend time in the coming weeks choosing classes for the next school year, spend some time listening for God to reveal His call on your life.
Don't make a decision about what to do with you life on your own. Talk with some friends, your parents, leaders in your church's student ministry or your campus ministry about what they might see you doing with your life. Sometimes others can see things in us that we can't.
Make a list of the various careers you are interested in. Ask God to show you how each one might make you more like Jesus and allow you to serve His Kingdom purpose for your life through those particular careers.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?

Encourage your friends to not just choose classes or a career path, but rather get in touch with their calling.
Get some friends together this week and talk with one another about your callings. Share with one another what you believe your calling to be.
Talk with your friends about what it means to be "Called." Talk with them about being holy.

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10 Feb, 2012

Pause

This week, over 500 folks from around the country gathered together for the Youth for Christ Staff Conference. During the conference, Robert Gelinas, pastor of Colorado Community Church near Denver, challenged the staff to take a close look at a word most commonly found in the Psalms, Selah. Selah is best translated "Pause." This week our YFC Staff were challenged to "press pause" in our lives to get more connected to our Heavenly Father.

Psalm 84 (ESV)

My Soul Longs for the Courts of the LORD

1 How lovely is your dwelling place,

O LORD of hosts!

2 My soul longs, yes, faints

for the courts of the LORD;

my heart and flesh sing for joy

to the living God.

3 Even the sparrow finds a home,

and the swallow a nest for herself,

where she may lay her young,

at your altars, O LORD of hosts,

my King and my God.

4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house,

ever singing your praise!

Selah

5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you,

in whose heart are the highways to Zion.

6 As they go through the Valley of Baca

they make it a place of springs;

the early rain also covers it with pools.

7 They go from strength to strength;

each one appears before God in Zion.

8 O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer;

give ear, O God of Jacob!

Selah

9 Behold our shield, O God;

look on the face of your anointed!

10 For a day in your courts is better

than a thousand elsewhere.

I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God

than dwell in the tents of wickedness.

11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield;

the LORD bestows favor and honor.

No good thing does he withhold

from those who walk uprightly.

12 O LORD of hosts,

blessed is the one who trusts in you!

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us "pressing pause"?

A search for the word Selah on biblegateway.com produced 74 results. Seventy of those were in a Psalm. As I said before, Selah is best translated, "pause." So when was the last time you pressed the pause button in your life? Many of us, even those reading this Daily Bide who are still living in the teenage years, live our lives running 90 miles per hour, never slowing down. Today's God's Story scripture is a great reminder that we need to pause and listen to what God would want us to hear.

How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?

Take some time this weekend to press the pause button in your life by doing one of the following:

Spend an hour or two in total silence somewhere.
Spend an extended time this weekend reading God's Story. Read some of the Psalms.
Spend some time journaling this weekend. Reflect on what God is doing in your life.
Give your iPod to your parents this weekend and instead of listening to your music sing some of your favorite worship songs to God.

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?

Invite a friend or two to join you in pushing the pause button this weekend.
Instead of going out with your friends this weekend, spend some time together investigating more of God's Story.
Ask a friend if they feel like their life is too busy? If they say yes, and they probably will, spend some time talking about ways that you might be able to help one another slow down.

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9 Feb, 2012

Eat!

Feeding children around the globe

The fundraising effort is underway for an upcoming meal packing event in New Richmond.

The Rotary Club of New Richmond, in partnership with Faith Community Church as well as other churches and businesses, is bringing the “Feed My Starving Children” organization to the community on Saturday, June 23, to package 100,000 meals or more to help feed hungry kids and adults around the world.

Feed My Starving Children, based in the Twin Cities, is a non-profit Christian organization committed to feeding children in body and spirit.

The approach is simple: children and adults hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children, and the organization ships the meals to nearly 70 countries around the world.

(Story provided by: http://www.newrichmond-news.com/event/article/id/35140/)

Mark 9:35-37

New International Version (NIV)

³⁵ Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said,“Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”

³⁶ He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, ³⁷“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

What does God Story scripture teach us about humbling ourselves?

Leading up to Jesus statement was an argument between the disciples – who was greatest among them? Jesus had heard their bikering, and asked what it was about. They were ashamed so they stood there and stared at their feet. Jesus, ever wise, wasn't going to let this teachable moment pass. he knew exactly what they were fighting about.

Jesus illustration was simple... "see this child, children have to depend on others, they have to receive help. They can't reach the food on their own. They must ask for help, they can't survive on their own strength."

Jesus plan was two fold... First, you have to humble yourself and ask for help, then you have to willingly serve those that ask for your help.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Spend an hour with a younger brother, sister, nephew or niece. Pay close attention to how often they need help.
Make a list of all the people who have helped you in big ways and small ways. Say a prayer of thanksgiving for them.
Pick a charity that helps children. Develop a plan to help raise money for your charity.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

Invite a friend to help you create your plan. Then work together to raise the money.
As you work together share with them Mark 9:35-37. Ask your friend to share their opinion on Jesus challenge to welcome little children.
Be humble enough to ask your friend for help.

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7 Feb, 2012

Longest Married Couple

Wilbur Faiss and Theresa Faiss longest married couple

Las Vegas (KVVU/CNN) - Imagine being married for 78 years!

One Las Vegas couple reached that milestone, a milestone so special even the President took note.

Looking through old photos, Wilbur Faiss can't help but smile about his wife and best friend, Theresa.

"You're in love, and that's all you think about, you know," said Wilbur.

Theresa wasn't feeling well enough for this interview, but Wilbur doesn't mind doing the talking. He's 100-years-old and learned recently that the worldwide marriage encounter bestowed a very high honor.

"I just had no idea of us ever winning the oldest, the longest-married couple," he said.

Wilbur and Theresa married on April 14, 1933. Their oldest son, Bob, entered them into a contest.

"I nominated him, and he did all the rest with my mom," said bob.

It was so special that even the president offered to mention the 78 year marriage during a recent stop in Las Vegas. Wilbur couldn't believe it.

"How often does an ordinary guy get such recognition by the president of the United States? It's one of these things that are once in a lifetime," said Wilbur.

But there was a slight problem on the day of the president's speech.

"You must understand that I am over 100 years of age, and I'm a lot slower than I was at 90," he said.

They were late. Too late to be allowed in and the president dropped the mention from his remarks.

"We tried to get there, and we fought the crowds and all," said Wilbur.

The couple was disappointed, but not deterred. The White House has promised to return, and give the Faiss' the recognition they deserve.

"For a president as busy as he is, and with the pressures he has, to take time to salute a couple, and through them, salute the solidarity of marriage in the United States, I think it's remarkable," said Wilbur.

As for the 78 years of wedded bliss, Wilbur offers a tip.

"It's very simple... It's give and take, and compromise," he said.

Story and Photo provided by news.google.com.

Ephesians 5:22-33 (ESV)

Wives and Husbands

22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.

25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about having a long marriage?

For many of you reading this Daily Bide, marriage may seem like a lifetime away. The truth is, however, that the decisions that you make in the years prior to marriage can increase your chances for a long lasting marriage. In today's God's Story scripture, Paul give us God's instructions for a healthy marriage. If you would like to have a healthy marriage someday, start making decisions today that are in line with today's scripture.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Do you hope to get married someday? Make a commitment to God today that all of your dating decisions will be steps toward that goal.
Share your decisions with a close friend and ask them to hold you accountable to keeping those decisions.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?

Do you have friends who are in unhealthy dating relationships? Talk with them about Today's Story. Ask them if they would like to break the record for the World's Longest Married Couple someday. Ask them what they are doing to make that a possibility.
Who is the longest marriend couple in your family? Talk with them about what it takes to stay married for so long.

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6 Feb, 2012

Little Brother Does It Again!

Younger Brother Eli Manning Wins Second Superbowl In House That Big Brother Peyton Built!

Giants beat Patriots 21-17 to win the Super Bowl

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Eli Manning and the Giants one-upped Tom Brady and the Patriots again, coming back with a last-minute touchdown to beat New England 21-17 Sunday night for New York's fourth Super Bowl title.

It was a rematch of the 2008 NFL championship, when Manning led New York past New England to ruin the Patriots' bid for a perfect season.

This was the first Super Bowl with two starting quarterbacks who previously won the big game's MVP award — and they took turns being brilliant. Manning became the first QB to open a Super Bowl with nine consecutive completions. Later, Brady put together a run of 16 completions in a row, breaking another Super Bowl mark.

But in the end, it was Manning — the winner of his second MVP award — who directed the nine-play, 88-yard drive that put New York ahead.

"It's been a wild game, a wild season," Manning said.

Read Full Story >>

Story and Photo from news.yahoo.com.

1 Samuel 16:1-13 (ESV)

David Anointed King

1 The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.” 2 And Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.” And the LORD said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ 3 And invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do. And you shall anoint for me him whom I declare to you.” 4 Samuel did what the LORD commanded and came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling and said, “Do you come peaceably?” 5 And he said, “Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.” And he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.

6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD's anointed is before him.” 7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” 8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, “Neither has the LORD chosen this one.” 9 Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, “Neither has the LORD chosen this one.” 10 And Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, “The LORD has not chosen these.” 11 Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.” 12 And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the LORD said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he.” 13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about expectations?

When it was announced that Superbowl XLVI would be played in Indianapolis, Colts fans started dreaming of the chance to play in and win a Superbowl in their home stadium, a stadium that has been affectionately referred to as the "House That Peyton Built." But it was Little Brother Eli that took down the Colts' rival the New England Patriots for the second time in four years to win the Superbowl last night. Wherever he was, I am sure Peyton Manning was proud of his little brother.

Have you ever wondered how David's older brothers felt when David was chosen? From oldest to youngest, they stood their expecting to be chosen by the prophet to be the next king of Israel. David wasn't even called in from the fields. Yet, in the end, it was the youngest brother David. Hopefully, David's brothers were proud of David in the end.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Read more of David's story in 1 Samuel 17.
Do you have siblings? Spend some time with them today doing something that they like to do.
Spend some time talking with God today about your siblings.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?

Is your brother or sister following Jesus? Sometimes its easy to miss what's going on with those who are closest to us each day.
Do you have a friend who struggles in their relationship with a sibling? Talk with them about Today's God's Story scripture.
Pray for your friends and hold them accountable to building a relationship with their brothers or sisters.

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3 Feb, 2012

Set Free From Sin!

Letter from freed slave to former master draws attention

A newly discovered letter from a freed former slave to his onetime master is creating a buzz. Letters of Note explains that in August of 1865, a Colonel P.H. Anderson of Big Spring, Tennessee wrote to his former slave Jourdan Anderson, requesting that Jourdan return to work on his farm.

In the time since escaping from slavery, Anderson had become emancipated, moved to Ohio where he found paid work and was now supporting his family. The letter turned up in the August 22 edition of the New York Daily Tribune. Some excerpts:

Sir: I got your letter, and was glad to find that you had not forgotten Jourdon, and that you wanted me to come back and live with you again, promising to do better for me than anybody else can. I have often felt uneasy about you. I thought the Yankees would have hung you long before this, for harboring Rebs they found at your house. I suppose they never heard about your going to Colonel Martin's to kill the Union soldier that was left by his company in their stable. Although you shot at me twice before I left you, I did not want to hear of your being hurt, and am glad you are still living. It would do me good to go back to the dear old home again, and see Miss Mary and Miss Martha and Allen, Esther, Green, and Lee. Give my love to them all, and tell them I hope we will meet in the better world, if not in this. I would have gone back to see you all when I was working in the Nashville Hospital, but one of the neighbors told me that Henry intended to shoot me if he ever got a chance.

On the "good chance" offered by the former slave owner:

I want to know particularly what the good chance is you propose to give me. I am doing tolerably well here. I get twenty-five dollars a month, with victuals and clothing; have a comfortable home for Mandy,—the folks call her Mrs. Anderson,—and the children—Milly, Jane, and Grundy—go to school and are learning well. The teacher says Grundy has a head for a preacher. They go to Sunday school, and Mandy and me attend church regularly. We are kindly treated. Sometimes we overhear others saying, "Them colored people were slaves" down in Tennessee. The children feel hurt when they hear such remarks; but I tell them it was no disgrace in Tennessee to belong to Colonel Anderson. Many darkeys would have been proud, as I used to be, to call you master. Now if you will write and say what wages you will give me, I will be better able to decide whether it would be to my advantage to move back again.

And then Jourdan explains that anything his former master could offer, he's already earned on his own. Other than some back wages:

As to my freedom, which you say I can have, there is nothing to be gained on that score, as I got my free papers in 1864 from the Provost-Marshal-General of the Department of Nashville. Mandy says she would be afraid to go back without some proof that you were disposed to treat us justly and kindly; and we have concluded to test your sincerity by asking you to send us our wages for the time we served you. This will make us forget and forgive old scores, and rely on your justice and friendship in the future. I served you faithfully for thirty-two years, and Mandy twenty years. At twenty-five dollars a month for me, and two dollars a week for Mandy, our earnings would amount to eleven thousand six hundred and eighty dollars. Add to this the interest for the time our wages have been kept back, and deduct what you paid for our clothing, and three doctor's visits to me, and pulling a tooth for Mandy, and the balance will show what we are in justice entitled to. Please send the money by Adams's Express, in care of V. Winters, Esq., Dayton, Ohio. If you fail to pay us for faithful labors in the past, we can have little faith in your promises in the future. We trust the good Maker has opened your eyes to the wrongs which you and your fathers have done to me and my fathers, in making us toil for you for generations without recompense. Here I draw my wages every Saturday night; but in Tennessee there was never any pay-day for the negroes any more than for the horses and cows. Surely there will be a day of reckoning for those who defraud the laborer of his hire.

And after a few more jabs about how his children are now happy and receiving an education, Jourdan concludes his letter with:

Say howdy to George Carter, and thank him for taking the pistol from you when you were shooting at me.

Story and Photo provided by news.yahoo.com.

John 8:31-38 (ESV)

The Truth Will Set You Free

31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 They answered him, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, ‘You will become free’?”

34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. 35 The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 37 I know that you are offspring of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you. 38 I speak of what I have seen with my Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.”

Romans 6:15-23 (ESV)

Slaves to Righteousness

15 What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! 16 Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? 17 But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, 18 and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness. 19 I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification.

20 For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. 21 But what fruit were you getting at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. 22 But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being set free from sin?

We were once slaves to Sin. Sin had control of our lives even when we didn't realize it. Now, if we are following Jesus, we have been set free from Sin. So why would we ever consider going back? In Today's Story, it was obvious in the letter that the life of the slave was in jeopardy when he was with his old master. While it may have been tempting to go back for certain reasons, he knew that his new life was much better than anything his old life had to offer.

Today's God's Story Scripture reminds us that while we are free from Sin, we are still slaves to God. But the gift that we receive from this new life is eternal life. Now that is something to write about!!

How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?

Read Romans 6 several times this weekend.
Consider writing your own letter to your old master (Sin) in which you talk about your new life in Jesus.
Write another letter, to your new master (God), thanking Him for paying the price so you and I could be free from sin and inherit eternal life.

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?

Do you have a friend who is trying their hardest to follow Jesus but it just seems like they are still a slave to sin? Share today's story with them.
Encourage them to write a "good riddance" letter to their old master (Sin).
Encourage them to write another letter to their new master (God), thanking Him for setting them free.

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2 Feb, 2012

"X" Marks the Spot

Treasure hunter claims $3bn WWII-era find off US coast

A Maine treasure hunter says he has discovered a WWII-era shipwreck filled with platinum, now worth $3bn (£1.9bn).

Greg Brooks of Sub Sea Research says a wreck sitting 50 miles (80km) off the US Atlantic coast is the SS Port Nicholson, sunk in 1942.

The Port Nicholson, a British merchant ship, was torpedoed by a German U-boat in an attack that killed six people.

Some have expressed doubts the wreck holds platinum, and maritime law would complicate ownership claims.

(Story provided by: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-16847737)

Matthew 13:44-46

The Message (MSG)

⁴⁴"God's kingdom is like a treasure hidden in a field for years and then accidentally found by a trespasser. The finder is ecstatic—what a find!—and proceeds to sell everything he owns to raise money and buy that field.

^45-46"Or, God's kingdom is like a jewel merchant on the hunt for excellent pearls. Finding one that is flawless, he immediately sells everything and buys it.

What does God's Story scripture teach us about the importance of the Kingdom of God?

The point of these two short stories is very clear... The Kingdom of Heaven is really important! In fact it is one of the most important things you will ever learn about.

These little tales show us that it is worth selling everything to find. The Kingdom of Heaven is worth our greatest efforts. Elsewhere Jesus says, "Seek first the Kingdom of Heaven."

C.S. Lewis, the great christian thinker and writer, said this, "Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither."

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Find an item that is valuable to you. Set it in front of you. Now, being honest with yourself, what price would you pay for that item?
Considering the value of that item for you, how much is the Kingdom of Heaven worth to you?
Set your item somewhere you can see it from now on. Let it serve as a reminder of the value of God's Kingdom.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

Everyone loves a good treasure hunting story. Share today's news story with a friend. Ask them their thoughts. Should he get the platinum or return it to the British government?
Ask your friend to think of something valuable to them and what price they would pay for it? Why such a price?
Share today's scripture stories with your friend. Ask if they think it would be worth everything?

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1 Feb, 2012

different standards

Students Respond to Claremont McKenna’s Bumping Up SAT Scores

Students at Claremont McKenna College told ABC News today they were “in shock” at recent news that for the past six years the small, prestigious school had bumped up the SAT scores of its incoming freshmen in an effort to boost the school’s ranking in the influential U.S. News and World Report’s listing.

“There’s some negative feelings going around,” said Sam Kahr, a student at the Claremont, Calif., college. “But we are the first people to openly come out and acknowledge that we have done this, and I feel that deserves merit on the part of the administration.”

On Monday, Pamela Gann, Claremont McKenna’s president, released a statement to students and faculty, saying that “a senior administrator” had resigned after admitting to being “solely responsible for falsely reporting SAT statistics since 2005.”

Gann said in her statement that “the reported critical reading and/or math SAT scores were generally inflated by an average of 10-20 points.”

...

Brian Kelly, the editor of U.S. News and World Report, told ABC News today however that he didn’t think the inflated SAT scores would affect the school’s overall score “all that much.” SAT scores account for 7.5 percent of a school’s total score.

“It’s not huge,” Kelly said. “We fold a lot of different kinds of measurements (such as class rank, acceptance rates and student selectivity) together to come up with our ranking.”

Gracie Mahan, a Claremont McKenna student, said the incident was embarrassing.

“Knowing that the scores were changed … it’s a very serious issue,” she said. “I think a lot of kids make their college decision off what the scores look like at a school. It’s unacceptable for these numbers to have been tampered with.”

Article from abc news, & picture from Google images

Colossians 3: 1-4

1 So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides.

2 Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ- that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

3 Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life - even though invisible to spectators - is with Christ in God. He is your life.

4 When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too - the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.

What Does God's Story Scripture teach us about being serious about our standards?

I am glad that this school did the honorable thing and admitted wrongdoing. But the truth is, the school lied about the their students test scores. They cared more about the way they looked to perspective students than by telling the truth. Only time will tell what the implications this will have on future and current students, but now the school has a reputation of skewing the truth.

God calls us to be "serious about this...new life". I love that this version tells us if indeed we are "serious" about this new live, we need to "ACT LIKE IT". Too often our society changes a few things here and there in order to make themselves look just a little bit better, I mean a small fudge in the numbers wont make a difference right?? Wrong. Its all about perspective, we can rationalize our choices and lies for days but as we become followers of Jesus, we are called to a new standard. A standard when we begin to try to see things from God's perspective, we stop looking at the floor and looking past the things in our lives that need to change. Its time to become serious about following Christ, what you are like not just on Sundays, youth group, or in bible club, but ever day and every situation in our daily lives. We must (with God's help) begin to live our truth in our daily lives. We must begin to be Serious about what we consider the truth, and what is right.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

We must remind ourselves to see things from God's perspective, Verse 2 relates it to keeping your eyes on the ground and not looking up and seeing the bad that is around you.

We must remind ourselves to CARE enough to look up and to care enough to try and see things from God's perspective.

Spend some time just you and Jesus, and ask him to show you where in your life do you need to gain His Perspective.
Spend some time and Read psalm 51. Pray and think about the first time you came to know Christ, remember the new life He started in you.
Ask God to "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10) "
Reread today Colossians 3: 1-4 and ask God where you can change your "shuffle" into the "real You"

Be in silence during this time with the Lord, and listen to his still small voice this week!

How can we connect today's Story, God's Story, and My story to others?

Tell this schools story, and ask your friends, "Do you think this school went to far just for a ranking"
Be open and talk to your friends about blurring the lines in things in your life. Be prepared to tell a story where you may have blurred the lines or kept your eyes on the ground. Be prepared that many of your peers may not think what the school did was THAT bad.

Share about the real you and how you are trying to see things from a different perspective, God's perspective.

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