SOLO: Psalm 139:1-12

You can read today's passage by clicking here

How does it make you feel, knowing that God sees all, hears all, knows all? Nothing is hidden from him! What a big thought!

I'm not gonna lie. That's a pretty daunting realization. God knows all my dirty laundry. He knows my thoughts that no one would believe I have. He's heard the words I mutter to only myself. He sees into the darkest parts of my soul that are hidden from the public under my pious persona.

My deepest secret? He's seen it! My biggest doubt? He knows it? My most paralyzing fear? He's experienced it!

But he still loves me with reckless abandon!

God sees all, hears all, knows all-and loves us! His love is beyond unconditional. It's inconceivable!

SOLO: Psalm 103:1-14

I was really good at math when I was younger. Computation always made good sense to me. To this day, I'm pretty quick when it comes to basic addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. So for all the math people out there, I have a few simple equations and theorems for you:

1 John 3 encourages us to do what pleases God by believing his son and doing what he commands. What are his commands?

Love God + love people

Jesus taught the entire law hung on those two things. So how do I love God and love others?

listen to him +
do what he says +
be generous +
treat others better than I treat myself

So, it could be concluded that...

Blessing God = Serving

What does God's "heart" good is living as his son lived. And Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45)

The life of the servant is lived in servitude, and we're called to serve the world. This must be what gives God the most pleasure. When we seek to love as he loves, give as he gives, serve as he serves we are living out the dreams he has for us.

How's your serve? God blesses us to bless him and others. It was never for us to horde his blessings to ourselves. Because of what he's done for us and because of what he's given to us, we're called to bless him and bless others.

Well that's it for the math lesson. The test is now yours to take!

SOLO: Psalm 62:1-2

You can read the passage by clicking here

Psalm 62 makes me think of God as the one constant in my world of ups, downs, and in-betweens. As my mind swirls with emotions, he is steady. Rock solid, in fact.

Man that's good news. Life is nothing if not changing. It is a whirlwind of emotions, circumstances, personalities, expectations-all constantly in motion. And as it spins seemingly out of control, voices become nebulous and empty.

But...

Hebrews tells us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is consistent. He doesn't change. He's the anchor. He's the rock. He's the safe haven. He's the shelter. He's ever present, he loves unconditionally, and he remains steady when the rest of life is ravaged by storms.

Oh, and He's good!

Be encouraged. God is a rock! Solid. Strong. Consistent. In other words, he's all the things we're not but so desperately need.

SOLO: Job 42:7-13 (Be careful throwing God's name around)

You can read today's passage by clicking here

I referenced this in yesterday's blog, but I wanted to dive into it a little bit more...

Let's focus on the third commandment, of “the Ten Commandments. The third one is easily misunderstood. If you don't know it, here it is: "No using the name of God, your God, in curses or silly banter; God won't put up with the irreverent use of his name." Exodus 20:7, The Message In the King James version I learned as a child it says "Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain..."

As a child I learned that the third commandment meant that if you hit your thumb with a hammer, be sure to not say Jesus' name, or God with any curse word attached to it. While I think this a good rule of thumb (rule of thumb...haha...I kill myself) it's not the heart of the third commandment.

Job's buddies are in deep with God! Why? Because they've failed to be honest about God-about who he is and what he's about. They've taken God's name in vain. They've associated him with something he's not or had nothing to do with.

This is a biggie, because you and I can be guilty of this without giving it much thought. "God wants me to...", "God said I should...", "If you want to please God...". I don't think it was Job's pals' intentions to point him in the wrong direction. I don't think they maliciously set out to torture him with their words. I just think they had an opinion, felt they were right, and tied God to it. By the way, that's a very bad idea!

Be very careful what you tie God to. Too many people are guilty of manipulating others in the name of God. This is very upsetting to the Most High, as shown in Job 42. Be careful when you speak for God. Be careful you're not affiliating with your opinion so you can be right or have leverage!

SOLO: Job 9:2-23

You can read the passage by clicking here

Couple of thoughts as I read this: Am I willing to be so honest as to assume my own innocence in the presence of God? I love that Job was willing to be so raw. Personally, I know I've never been able to stand before God and plead innocent. And while I know that Job wasn't sinless, I believe he understood that his circumstances weren't the outcome of his actions. In other words, I think Job had some real insight into his situation. I feel he was onto something.

That said, I also think Job was amiss. He was disillusioned by his circumstances. He wasn't completely innocent. He wasn't just and didn't even deserve to be in the room with the Almighty Judge.

I feel like everyone relates to job's story; we're all a little double-minded. Some good theology - some understanding, but still only seeing a piece of the picture. Most of us feel we're innocent when bad things start happening to us, but we're quick to forget our failures and shortcomings. It's only when our lives are exposed to the light of Christ that we're able to see the truth of who we are! May we be willing to be raw and vulnerable in the presence of God, but may we always remember our own frailty and may we choose to humble ourselves. If God is forced to humble us, it becomes humiliation!

SOLO: Job 1:1-21

You can read today's passage by clicking here.

Do you ever wonder if your life is the kind that would show up in the Bible, or is that just me? I've always thought it would be so cool to be in the scriptures-to live a life worthy of being written about.

That's probably a little arrogant and has a lot to do with my ego, but I can assure you my intentions are good. I really do want to be that consistent. That's why I think Job's such a stud! He's not only written about, but God even points out his faithfulness to Satan. How crazy is that?

I wonder if God were going to make a case for us in front of Satan, would he have a leg to stand on (if God even has legs – I digress)? Would it be an open and shut case? Would there be any reason that Satan would fear our success? I'm afraid I'm much too inconsistent, emotional, and even hypocritical to be able to stand up against the stuff Job did. Yet he remained consistent.

How 'bout you? Could God bring your name up as a model of righteousness and consistency? Why or why not? Is this even feasible? Just a couple of questions to get you thinking...

Solo: Esther 7:3-10

You can read the passage by clicking here

I have a confession to make: there are times when I struggle to give grace and mercy. As a pastor, I should be the one out front, setting the tone, being generous and reckless in forgiveness. Often I wrestle with thoughts of judgment. I battle thoughts of "you reap what you sow" or "I knew this would happen" as I sit on my high horse of piety. In a turn of twisted irony, I will judge and evaluate other people for being arrogant and judgmental. This is a glimpse into my sometimes dark soul.

I think a lot of folks wrestle with this too. I know several who wage this war. Strangely, those far from Christ often have a better grasp on not being judgmental than those who are His followers. Somehow our being saved by His amazing grace brings thoughts of superiority and entitlement. Hopefully I'm the only person that thinks this way, but I somehow doubt it.

Reading a passage like this is tough. I have to be mindful of my emotions. My challenge in reading a passage like this is clear: Do not become a cheerleader for what's happening to Haman!

Yes, Haman did terrible things. Yes, I think Haman is getting what he deserved. No, he probably wouldn't have shown mercy in reverse. But I have to remember that justice suits me just fine when I feel like I'm the one who's been wronged or I care about the one who's been wronged. When I stand before the judge, I cry out for mercy, deserved or not!

The truth is, if we got what we deserve, we would all be eternally separated from God in Hell. Praise be to God, that he is liberal in grace, mercy, and forgiveness and that we don't have to get what we deserve. Instead, he lavishes love on us and calls us children.

Be careful not to be a cheerleader when judgment happens. Know that it is by grace you are saved, and that every step you take and every breath you breathe is granted by the Gracious God.

SOLO Bible Study - Esther 5:9-13

You can read the passage by clicking here

It's amazing how selfish, bitter, and naive I can become when I focus only on what I don't have rather than what I do have. It seems I'm predisposed to begin looking for more and better than what I already have. How ungrateful and egotistical I can become when I look only at what I don't have. How narcissiistic!

Paul wrote to the church in Phillipi,
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (NIV) Paul learned the secret of being content.

He learned it.

This is not natural behavior. It's unreasonable for us to assume we will have feelings of contentment. We must learn why we're to be content and how we're to be content.

A couple of things that have helped me and would've helped Haman:

1) Count your blessings! Thank God for what you do have. Are you healthy? Do you have people that you love and love you back? DO you have any change in your pocket? DO you have any food in the fridge? Do you have clean water to drink? Do you use an indoor toilet? These are a few things that help keep me grounded, because the majority of people in the world are missing many of these things we take for granted.

2) Pray James tells us "You do not have, because you do not ask God." I regularly share my passions and wants with others, but don't commit them to prayer. How much am I trusting God in all this? When I make it a focus of prayer, I put it in GOd's hands. After all, he's good! He sets everything before me. He is the one in control. If he thinks it would be good for me to have it, then I can trust that.

3) Ask yourself, "Why do I want this?" James continues, "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." If your motive is simply for you, maybe your heart isn't where it needs to be. Maybe you're putting your treasure in things rather than God. What's your motivation?

These are just a few of my thoughts. What are some ways you can learn to be content?

SOLO Day 55 - Esther 4:7-14

You can read today's passage by clicking here

The Holocaust is one of the darkest periods of modern history. Many historians believe more than 6 million Jews died at the hands of the Nazi regime. One charismatic leader with enormous power was able to hijack a nation's moral compass, and they chose to follow blindly down a devastating path. By the time men and women attempted to stand up to Hitler's regime and speak out, it was too late. Listen to Martin Niemoller, a German theologian and Lutheran Pastor:

"First they came for the Communists but I was not a Communist so I did not speak out; Then they came for the Socialists and Trade Unionists but I was not one of them, so I did not speak out. Then they came for the Jews but I was not Jewish, so I did not speak out. And when they came for me, there was no one left to speak out for me."

Martin Niemöller stood up against the Nazi regime. He was imprisoned in Sachsenhausen and Dachau concentration camps from 1937 to 1945. Martin Niemöller is a celebrated pacifist, and even after his death in 1984, is fondly remembered as a bright light in a dark time. But Martin Niemöller's own confession leads me to ask several questions.

Why didn't people speak out? Why didn't Christ-followers take a stand. Where were the courageous? Where were those with a spine? Why didn't we stand up sooner? I wonder if Martin Niemöller felt like he missed the opportunity to do what was right sooner?

2400+ years before the Holocaust the Jews were on the verge of being wiped out. A young Jewish woman sat on the throne as Queen of Persia when her surrogate father came to her, pleading for her to stand up! "Who knows? Maybe you were made queen for just such a time as this," he begged. Queen Esther did, and God saved his people, because one voice chose to speak up.

What opportunities and decisions are facing you right now? Is there anyone you need to stand up for? What is a God-sized risk that you need to take?

Who knows? Maybe you were made for just such a time as this.

Prayer for Japan

PRAYER FOR JAPAN

Written by Fr. Richard Rohr

Mysterious God,
Creator of atoms, earth, fire, water, and air,
We do not understand all that surrounds us,
We are only a part and a moment,
You are the All in All.

Surround, protect, and give ground
To our sisters and brothers in Japan.
They feel so afraid and so abandoned.
Yet we know You abandon nothing
That you have created,
Nor will you abandon them.

Love us all into the Larger Life
That Jesus revealed while being crucified.

With him and for them,
We pray in hope.
Amen.

SOLO Day 54 - Nehemiah 13:7-13

You can read the passage by clicking here

Isn't it amazing how easy it is to forget? I'm not sure if it's just human nature or what, but it's shocking how quickly we lose sight when things are good. We're so quick to forget what it was like for us when things were a wasteland.

Bill Hybels defines character as "who you are when no one's looking." Once Nehemiah returns to service for the king, those left in charge begin to slack on their responsibilities. The priests aren't taken care of, idol worship takes root, and leadership is scarce. Nehemiah's initial response is anger and frustration, but then he makes a great leadership decision. He places men that are trustworthy and hard-working in positions of leadership.

So here's my thought: what do you do when no one's around? What would you do if you knew you could "get away" with it? Just a couple of questions I need to ask myself. May you be diligent and not grow tired of doing good and may you succeed in doing well when no one is looking!

SOLO Day 53 - Nehemiah 5:6-11

Let me tell you a story that has meant a lot to me. Seven years ago I was a young youth pastor, anxious to make a difference. I took a group of students to a church camp in Glorieta, New Mexico called Centrifuge. The camp was life changing, led to Carrie and I becoming FUGE staffers ourselves, and has had a tremendous impact on our lives. It's truly a story in-and-of itself.

But while I was at that camp, I met a youth pastor that has had a profound impact on my life and ministry. I've forgotten his name, but I'll never forget the 10 minutes he spent sharing with me. He had close to 70 students, which for me was monstrous. I was so envious. I wanted to have that many kids! So I asked him how he did it? His story went something like this: he was a youth pastor, had been successful in ministry, but had nearly killed himself trying to change the culture of the church he was in. He had done everything to try and make the church's youth program grow. But every program and every gimmick seemed to fail. The student ministry continued to be apathetic and small.

One night before church, his little boy asked him if he could accompany his father to "noof gwoop." His dad tried to correct him, hoping to help his son's speech. "UUUUUUUTTTTHHHHHHH," he sounded out. His son responded, "Yeth daddy! Noof gwoop, Noof gwoop! I need noof gwoop!" This youth leader shared with me that God began to speak to his heart about needing a NOOF group: a group focused on the Needs Of Others First. He looked at me and said, "only when you look to the needs of others will you be able to accomplish what God desires! I stopped focusing on growing and started focusing on the needs of students first!" That one statement was his secret to success. Kids were attracted to a group that looked for opportunities to serve. People naturally want to be aligned with something bigger than themselves. A NOOF group provided that.

Nehemiah calls people out on the carpet because they're only focused on themselves. This is hardly the only place this happens in scripture. God is very concerned with how we love others. Are you a "me" person or a NOOF person? Your answer is a strong indicator of your intimacy with God. God is a NOOF God! May we choose to be NOOF people!

SOLO Day 52 - Ezra 9:10-15

You can read the passage by clicking here

Tell the truth: do you know anything about Ezra, except that he can pray an amazing confession for the people? Do you know his story at all? Is he one of the heroes of the Old Testament you've heard stories about?

Probably not.

Ezra was a different kind of leader. I envision him as more of a behind the scenes kind of guy. Studious and intelligent, maybe a little quiet and hard to get to know. But don't underestimate the importance of a leader like Ezra. They may not have the flash of a Moses or an Elijah, but they are incredibly important. Ezra was a student of God's word and Ezra knew God. When Ezra taught his words held power and significance-not simply because he was charismatic or intelligent, but because he taught out of what was in him.

There are plenty of razzle-dazzle type-A personalities out there who captivate us with their clever lyrics or impressive persona. But Ezra was true blue. He led out of who he was. He was consistent. His life was God's, and no one else's. He was the perfect leader for a time when the people of God needed a man with character. He led the people to repentance, reminded the people of their calling, interceded on their behalf, and spoke truth into their lives. It's no wonder that many believe Ezra is the author of Psalm 119, one of the most revered passages in all of scripture.

Perhaps you are called to be an Ezra. A leader who is all character and little pizazz! A person who walks with God rather than a speaker for Him. People who are willing to get in the trenches and be light in a dark world. Individuals who are willing to walk with God through the good and bad, stand in the gap for others, and lead by example. People whose actions are louder than their words. We need more Ezras. Will you be like him?

SOLO Day 51 - 2 Chronicles 30:1-9

You can read today's passage by clicking here

I'm so grateful that God welcomes me back with open arms. Being open-armed is a statement of major commitment. Allow me to elaborate.

If you think about it, being open-armed leaves you quite vulnerable. The area of the body that must be protected most is left completely vulnerable. The major organs are protected only by the thin skin, while the most important of organs, the heart, is protected only by a series of small bones. Stop and think about a God who is willing to leave himself wide open like that. A God that only does this for one thing: us!

It's more than ironic that Jesus would die on a cross with arms spread wide-open. Perhaps he died with arms spread so that we could remember his nature. An open-armed, open-hearted God who will do whatever it takes for us to be willing to accept his embrace!

SOLO Day 50 - 1 Chronicles 16:23-29

You can read the passage by clicking here.

This may be coming out of left field, but it's hard for me to serve a God more humble than I am.

I expect him to be more than me in all areas of life. I expect him to be more powerful, more knowledgeable, more spectacular. He should be bigger. Who wants to follow a god that's smaller than themselves? My God needs to be big, strong, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound type of stuff. He's got to be big, because I expect a bigger-than-life God.

Maybe "more" humility isn't an appropriate thought. Maybe less pride is a better description. Which seems a little oxymoronic: all powerful God = very little pride? Verses like this passage are interesting because I love words of praise. I'm sure God loves to hear it too. But while I long for them for reasons less than holy (boost my ego, encourage self-worth, feel important...) God wants it because he longs for us to love him. He's not needy-he knows we need him, and our confessions of praise are simply our acknowledging the need in our souls. He has less pride than we do because he's not self-serving, something I can't wrap my head around. Maybe that's just one more reason why he's good!

May we come to resemble the God who's more humble than we are, and may we sing his praise with our very lives!

SOLO Day 48 - 1 Chronicles 11:10-11

You can read today's passage by clicking here

Who do you link arms with? Who in your life is worth going to battle for? Who in your life are you willing to follow into battle? Who do you cling to when life gets really hard? Who really knows you, your deepest secrets, your flaws and fears, and has your back anyway?

Do you have that person or persons in mind?

Do they know you feel this way?

Will you tell them today?

SOLO Day 47 - 2 Kings 22:11-17

You can read today's passage by clicking here

I think a couple things are clear after reading today's scriptures

1. God takes sin very seriously
2. Life is cause and effect. There are consequences to our actions.
3. God is patient, but unchecked habitual sin leads down a road no one wants to take.
4. At some stage in the process, there will be a tipping point when God responds. Be prepared for it.

My hope and prayer for you and I is that we take a long, hard look at our lives and ask ourselves, "Is there anything I'm holding onto, anything unconfessed, anything that's standing in the way of my relationship with God? If so, deal with it, before God has to!

SOLO Day 46 - 2 Kings 11:17-12:2

You can read today's passage by clicking here

I don't know your thoughts on Jehoida, but I think it's clear he's not a man who reads his own press clippings!

Jehoida was at the top of the world. Under his command, he'd just led the people to return to what God had set in motion from the get go. "No other gods before me" was where the ten commandments begin, and Jehoida was putting that into play. He killed the false prophet and tore down the false gods and their shrines. He was riding a wave of public emotion. He easily could have implied that if were ruler, life would be different. he could've performed another coup and possibly gained the throne. Instead, he chose to serve as high priest, and Joash's council. Don't miss this!

He turned the throne over to a seven year old kid and chose to serve him!

Pretty significant. While I may have mixed emotions about how Jehoida went about things, I'm thoroughly impressed when it comes to his knowing his role!

May we never thrust ourselves into an opportunity simply because it looks good. And may we always be willing to give up what was never ours to begin with!

SOLO Day 45 - 2 Kings 4:20, 24-29

You can read today's passage by clicking here

It is so hard to trust when life is full of disappointment, frustration, and unmet expectations. Things let us down. Circumstances don't go our way. The easy thing to do is pull back. Don't make yourself vulnerable. Don't get too close, so no one gets hurt-especially me.

Which is harder: trusting God or trusting others? I've wrestled with trusting people. But is my overall view of humanity jaded because I don't look at others the way God looks at them? And what about trusting God? Does it really come down to placing the responsibility on me rather than him for "justice" to be served? If so, have I been trustworthy enough to trust myself?

These are more thoughts into my head than the typical devotion generally contained here. I'd love to hear your thoughts...

SOLO Day 44 - 1 Kings 21:20-29

Here's today's passage...

Some quick questions to ponder...

Does it upset you to see God forgive so quickly regarding others?

When do you wish God would judge more quickly or harshly? Does it ever involve you? If so, is that selfish?

Why does God seem to be so long-suffering at times, yet short-tempered at others?

Is there anything that seems unfair about God's justice?

If I were given the opportunity to ask one question that God would have to answer, I feel confident it would be regarding his justice. The great news is intimacy with God is not hidden from us, so we can come to him honestly and openly with our questions and concerns. May you do just that as you look at the questions regarding this passage!

SOLO Day 43 - 1 Kings 17:7-16

Here's today's passage

What a great story! It's such a challenging passage, because I know if I only had enough to care for Carrie and myself one meal, I can't imagine making for someone else first. God is so clear-he desires for us to look to the needs of other people. I firmly believe this story represents the heart of the gospel: Trust God and serve others. It's incredibly hard. That's why this woman is amazing. It could have been so easy for her to trust in her common sense, or look at her circumstances and try to make it happen some other way. But she trusted God. Don't overlook verse 9: God instructed the woman. He gave her direction. I don't know when or how, but he directed her. So some big principles: she listened, she trusted, she acted. Am I? Are you?

SOLO Day 41 - 1 Kings 12:27-33

After reading today's passage, a thought came to mind: a Godly king never again sat on the throne in Israel after Jeroboam's sin. Now Im not implying that this was the reason. Each king had the chance to choose to follow God. But I do think it's interesting that from the time of the Israelites in the Exodus, God constantly warns against other gods. He repeatedly promises demise and destruction if this command is disobeyed. Jeroboam has just been given the kingdom by God, yet he can't seem to trust that his people won't desert him if they go back to worship in Jerusalem. So he sets up golden calves, just as Aaron did for the Israelites during the exodus, and God does what he says he'll do.

The worst part about this whole thing: the entire country suffers, because they follow their leader into worshiping false gods, and God brings judgment. Like I said before, not another Godly king will sit on the throne in Israel. It could have been different, if Jeroboam had just trusted what God had already given.

Use your influence wisely. Trust God completely. He has entrusted to you everything you are and have. You're decisions have the potential of impacting eternity. Who knows how many people are counting on you!

SOLO Day 40 - 1 Kings 8:22-30

Here is today's passage!

When was the last time you were this open and honest before God? Have you ever been?

I remember being told as a child that prayer was simply talking to God. But even now I find it can be uncomfortable to make myself so vulnerable to share my true thoughts. The sad reality is that I'd much rather act like everything is hunky-dory, just so I won't have to be honest about my thoughts and fears. If I'm honest, even with God, it means I have to think about the things I'd like to forget, the things I'm most scared of, the things that I can't control-though I desperately want to. Prayer can be incredibly uncomfortable.

But something that I thought was really interesting in this passage: Solomon did this, not just before God, but also in front of the entire congregation of Israel. In other words, in front of everyone.

Oswald Chambers once wrote, "Who we are in public is who we are in private". Solomon was able to be open and honest in public because he was transparent with God in private. It spilled out into his everyday life.

If you long to be more transparent & authentic, you have to start with who you are in private. Who are you when no one's looking? When there's no accountability present, what do you choose to do? This is a clear indication of the condition of your heart.

When it comes to your relationship with Christ, never "fake it 'til you make it!" Always stop and look inside. Look at who you are in private. Solomon forgot this later in life, and his relationship with God went south. Learn from his mistake. Who you are in public is who you are in private, or as Jesus said, "out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks."

SOLO Day 39 - 1 Kings 5:1-5

Click here for today's passage.

Coincidentally, I've been thinking about writing this post for weeks. What are you dreaming that's God-sized? The kind of stuff you could never accomplish on your own. the kind of aspirations that can only be achieved with divine intervention. As is mentioned in SOLO, your dreams need not be realized today or tomorrow. The question is are you still dreaming? If not, how come? Life is nothing but existence without dreams. Humans need hope, and much hope comes from dreaming.

What are you dreaming that's God-sized? Perhaps you need to be a little more childlike and forget limitations. I know I do.

“All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible.” -T.E. Lawrence

SOLO Day 38 - 2 Samuel 24:13-25

I extended the passage to include the final 13 verses of the chapter.

I did this because of my own conviction found in the last few verses of chapter 24. David has sinned against God and thousands of people have died due to his error. God has called off the angel delivering the destruction but then tells David to build an alter to him at a specific location. The man who owns the location is Araunah, and he offers to give the land and the sacrifice to David for free. David's response: No way! I'm not going to sacrifice anything that hasn't cost something.

It isn't just the thought that counts-it's the action.

Personally, I probably would have accepted what was offered freely and then chalked it up to God's provision. "God is favoring me because I'm doing what he asked!" But not David. He demands to pay a "good price"-he doesn't even demand a discount. In short, he refuses to give the minimum, because he understands that this represents what he's willing to give to God.

I wonder how this would change our world if we acted the same way. It's not that hard to give something we have plenty of. Ad truthfully, it's pretty easy to give leftovers rather than our best.

Maybe you remember the story of Cain and Abel. Cain killed his brother Abel because God accepted Abel's offering, but rejected his own. But do you know why Cain's offering was rejected? Cain's offering wasn't his best, or his first. His gift didn't honor God and exposed the true nature of his heart! He offered a sacrifice, but it cost him so little. God judged the heart of the offering, and it was rejected. Cain's response was intense bitterness and hatred, when the solution was to simply confess he didn't give his best.

God needs nothing from us and he's not interested in our half-hearted offerings. Our generosity and sacrifice show him our gratitude and the condition of our heart. David understood this, and demanded to give an offering that cost him something-it was important to give God his best!

By the way, this is in no way exclusive to money! What about our time? What about our talents and abilities? What about our very lives? Are we being generous with those things?

Is there any area where you're being stingy with God? Are you withholding your best or what's right in order to get by with the minimum of what's asked of you? May you see that God wants you, wholeheartedly. And may you see that when you give the minimum, it exposes the true condition of your heart.

SOLO Day 37 - 2 Samuel 19:1-8

Take some time and read the passage here

Nothing but questions today: I regularly hear people talking about "balance" in their lives-Is this a biblical principle? Was Jesus balanced? Was Joab out of line with his request? Was David out of line with his emotions? When are we to care for our own emotions and when are we to look to the needs of others? Can they be independent from each other? Do they have to coincide? Are they synonymous?

Wrestling with these questions and more today!

SOLO Day 36 - 2 Samuel 15:3-6

Here's the passage for today!

My life has been a collision of goals, desires and callings intersecting truths, beliefs and convictions. I'm not sure what I've learned along the journey, but there are several principles that come to mind. Here are a few:

-I rarely get to where I want to go on the first path that comes to mind.
-Accomplishment is almost always more difficult than what I originally planned.
-I rarely can predict my emotions when something comes to fruition.
-There are no finish lines, only new opportunities.
-The end never justifies the means.

Two other thoughts are demonstrated in the life of David and came to mind as I was reading this story today.

The first thought that I had about this passage is this: more was written about David's life prior to him becoming king than after. It would be a natural assumption that much more would be written after he takes over the kingdom, because that's where he can make maximum impact. But that's not how the Bible tells his story.

The application for me is simple: Live fully in the moment I'm in. I know that I'm tempted to always be looking ahead, looking for the next big thing. I think that's human nature. But David's kingship is simply a part of his story. It's not the end, just a section. It's not even the pinnacle of his life. Could it be that the greatest moment of David's life was when he was a shepherd and no one knew his name but God? After all, that's when he got to know God and developed into a man after God's own heart. I need to learn to seize the day I'm in, and not solely be focused on what lies ahead.

The second observation I had was this: David had great power, privilege, and prestige, but he was immediately faced with greater struggles as well. It seems almost immediately after David takes the throne, he's forced to deal with major personal issues. David's life was harder after his taking over the kingdom than when he was running for his life. He endured more pain and more hardship after "success" than before!

Too frequently we look with biased eyes at situations and scenarios, unwilling to come face-to-face with reality. We strive for accomplishment and position, but are blind to the responsibilities and challenges that came with it. Remember, the grass is greener where you water it, not on the other side!

So live in the moment and strive to be content. Your life is now!

SOLO Day 34 - 2 Samuel 9:8-13

What an amazing passage today! This is such a cool story!

In business, when one company buys another company, it's inevitable that some people are probably going to be with out a job. The purchased company hopes against a hostile takeover, otherwise they all might be without work.

This is not a new concept. When new kings would come into power, they would often kill all living relatives who would have a "right" to the throne by bloodline. It was not unusual at all. So when David ordered for any living relative of Saul and Jonathan to be brought to him, I'm sure most everyone believed that David was going to follow suit, including Mephibosheth!

Totally random, but isn't that one of the most fun names in the Bible!

So Mephibosheth is hauled in to come face-to-face with the king. He can't even walk, he has no choice but to bow! He must have been paralyzed with fear. And just when he believes his life is about to end, David says, "You're my family now. You'll eat with me!"

How amazing is that? David isn't concerned about his kingdom being taken away from him, because it was never supposed to be his in the first place-God placed David in charge of the kingdom! David fully trusted God and welcomed a relative of the former king into his home! That is remarkable trust, amazing forgiveness, and incredible grace. David broke all the world's rules, and God rewarded him for it.

What do you need to do for someone that is radical and extraordinary? Is there anyone that God brings to mind that you need to do something for that's a little crazy?

SOLO Day 33 - 2 Samuel 7:18, 20-23, 28-29

Here's today's passage

What's God's covenant with you?

Can you say confidently you've heard him speak to you? If so, what did he say?

If you've heard God's voice, I encourage you to write it down. May it serve as a reminder, so you won't forget. Just as Nathan jotted down what God said to David, write it down, so that you can look back and see God's work in your life.

Trust me, you'll want to remember this stuff later!

SOLO Day 32 - 2 Samuel 1:24-27

Click here for the passage

I think this is one of the clearest pictures into why David was a man after God's own heart. Saul, king of Israel, is dead, and David weeps for him. This is the same Saul who has attempted top make David's life miserable the past several years. This is the same Saul who has chased David all over the country in an attempt to kill him. This is the same Saul who who repeatedly benefited from David. And despite the years of running, hiding, living in caves, searching for relief, David mourns Saul's death and orders everyone to do the same.

David served his enemy. Prior to Christ's arrival, he was fulfilling his command to pray for his enemy. This is not natural behavior. This is not normal. David was an exception to the rule, and he was remarkable.

I think the biggest difference between David and myself is this: David loved and honored Saul. Love and honor are a choice, and David chose to do this despite all that Saul was doing to him.

What have you done for your enemy? How would you react if they were taken out? What would your response be if those in power over you were finished and you were given control? Do you have the character to be like David? To love and honor, regardless of what is done to you by your enemy?

Dear Parents.... (a heartbreaking letter)

As a minister to Students I want to connect with teenagers on their level and ensure that they have a great experience. I feel a deep passion about good curriculum, relevant teaching and excellent programming. But often I can get so focused on the busyness of my day that I forget about what's most important: relationships.

The old adage is true. People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.

So what's the best way to show you care?

One word. PRESENCE.

Time invested in/with the ones you love reflects the true belief and priority of your soul. If you don't believe me, then check out this letter from a college student!
(special thanks to Cary Schmidt for his blog post)

Let me encourage you to make time for the ones you love. Your money won't do it! Activity won't do it. Entertainment won't do it. Good, relevant teaching and excellent programming from me or anyone else on Sundays and Wednesdays won't fill that gap either. What your student needs is your presence and your time. What your child needs is you!

I promise to walk with you and your student in this journey together. I'll be your biggest cheerleader because I'm committed to you both. Students need adults other than their parents loving them and investing in them as well, and I'm ready to take that responsibility on. But what they need most is their Mom and Dad. You are the most influential person in your child's life: spiritually, emotionally and mentally!

You may feel they don't care or that you're ill-equipped. You may feel like they don't need it or want it, but don't allow what you feel to impact what is true: you are their parent, their leader, their protector.

Our Father lived and died for a relationship with us. He was and is present. May we be willing to do whatever it takes to do the same for a relationship with our kids! Parents, I'm praying for you!

SOLO Day 31 - 1 Samuel 26:7-11

Here's the passage

Two principles leap out at me while reading this passage:

1) A good opportunity doesn't equate to God's best
2) Don't take out of place what God has put into place

I've heard on countless occasions (and even said myself) when trying to discern God's will that we're to walk through open doors. Good is good, best is better! God has a best in mind. Just because a door is wide open doesn't mean it's right. Remember, prison cells have doors too!

But for David, this seems like a dream come true. He's finally going to be free! It's the perfect opportunity to take over the throne. The army will swoon when they wake to find Saul pinned to the ground with his own spear! They would immediately follow him and finally the rightful king would sit on the throne. There's only one little thing: IT'S AGAINST GOD'S LAW TO MURDER!!!! Why is it so easy to forget that detail?

God's sovereignty is trustworthy. Do you really believe he sees all and knows all? DO you really trust, that in due time, he will be faithful to what he says? David had the perfect opportunity, but he knew not to take out of place what God has put in place. David knew God had put Saul into position, and at any time, he could take him out.

Do we trust God enough to turn over our grievances, our plans for revenge, even our desire to be found right? Do we trust him enough to relinquish our rights? This is the calling each of us have. Are you ready?

SOLO Day 30 - 1 Samuel 17:31-40

Today's scripture

Are you depending on the things of men rather than trusting in God? Do you trust in stuff or the Creator? Where does your allegiance lie? Will you try anything to get the result you want?

Saul tried to give David all the things a soldier would wear into battle. He was going into battle-he needed protection! And I can hear all of the wise counselors saying things like, "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail!" Saul's gift of armor was logical and well-thought out. There's nothing wrong with proper preparation.

But this wasn't how David had gone into battle in the past. He couldn't even move in the stuff! While it may have appeared that David wasn't properly prepared, quite the opposite was true. He prepared based on God's faithfulness in the past and present. He went and got the weapons he was familiar with and trusted God to deal with his protection!

Sometimes trusting God is illogical and sometimes even irrational. How will you choose to respond? Regularly we miss opportunities for God to do something big in us and through us because we refuse to leap until we have a logical, sensible plan. Discernment and Patience are both virtuous, but may we never overlook our calling in order to appear more civil, reasonable, or even logical!

Be courageous, even at the risk of being foolish if God has called you to something!

SOLO Day 29 – 1 Samuel 8:1, 3-7, 9-10, 19-22

You can see 1 Samuel 8:1-22 by clicking here

As a follower of Christ, it sure is easy to take his rejection personally. I know I'm guilty. I can think of several circumstances over the past few weeks when something I felt was God-led turned out to be rejected, and I took it personal. Perhaps my passion or my conviction was the reason I took at as an attack on myself.

No doubt there are times when it is personal. I don't want to hide behind the mask of "in the name of Jesus". I know many people who reject Christ because of Christians, and their rejection is completely personal. However, too often I encounter Christ-followers who are beaten down, apathetic, cynical and egotistical (I encounter one every morning when I look in the mirror). They've taken the responsibility of God and put it squarely on their own shoulders and, once rejected, turn their back on the very God that died so they could be free.

I know life hurts. I know we secretly want to be liked by everyone. And please don't misunderstand what I'm saying. This isn't a call to do whatever, regardless of who gets hurt. It is a calling to humble myself and be faithful. My responsibility is to be listening to my Father and then do what he says. Nothing more, nothing less. What others choose to do is on them.

Remember, Jesus Christ came so we could be free! Live in the freedom of unconditional acceptance and love and know that your self-worth has nothing to do with what others think about you. Your responsibility is to love God and love people! May you be so bold as to do just that!

SOLO Day 28 – Rest, Reflection & Renew

My friend, I hope today is a day of rest, reflection and renewal. Perhaps the most spiritual thing you can do today: to take a nap, to sit in silence, to spend time with family! After all, "Fatigue makes cowards of us all" - Vince Lombardi

SOLO Day 27 – 1 Samuel 3:8-10

To read the passage click here

I really recommend you read the verses prior to the selected passage, so feel free to check them out.

One of the reasons I love this story is God's unparalleled persistence in communing with people. He repeatedly speaks to Samuel, and despite Samuel's misunderstanding, God remains faithful in continuing to call him. He is patient. He doesn't get angry. He doesn't hold out on Samuel.

This is an important reminder for me personally. God longs to spend time with me (actually he's already with me). He's not flawed-he never gets frustrated when I'm trying to hear his voice. There's significance in the struggle, because fighting for it allows us to recognize him a little more clearly every time in the future.

Samuel never has this issue again. From here on out his intimacy with God is enviable. He still has his own opinions, but he recognizes when God says yay or nay!

So may you respond just as Samuel did when you hear the voice of God. And as your relationship grows, may you never forget the sound of his voice, so that when he speaks, you can act in confidence!

SOLO Day 26 – Ruth 3:1-2, 4, 8-13, 16-18

this.

What a cool passage! I wonder if anyone acts like this anymore? If it seems weird reading this, then you're completely normal. To give you a quick frame of reference, Ruth is Naomi's daughter-in-law. Ruth's husband has died, so the only family she has left is Naomi's family. Jewish custom is that any family member of her husband then has the right to marry her. That family member is called the Kinsman Redeemer-he redeems her by marrying her.

Ruth has no one to look after her. He has everything, and she's a lowly widow. If you were a Jewish widow with no children during this time period, there would be little hope. She has nothing to offer him, except herself. Boaz's response to Ruth is different than what you might expect. He's thrilled at the proposition. He literally serves as a type of savior for her and Naomi. He's more than willing to marry her and give her everything he has. How cool is that?

Jesus looks at us the same way, no doubt. We have nothing to offer him. Salvation is his alone to give. But he gladly offers it to us (kinship-joint heirs the scriptures tell us) if we're willing to humble ourselves at the feet of the Savior. There's no need to grovel, he welcomes us with open arms!

So may you see that you're starring in an unparalleled love story-the kind that makes you wonder if it's too good to be true. And may your response always be to humble yourself at the feet of Jesus, knowing he's ready to redeem you!

SOLO Day 25 – Judges 16:25-30

Does anybody else notice that even at the end of his life Samson's prayer is self-serving and vengeful? And despite that, God answers his prayer. Weird, huh?

When I was young I heard a preacher say that if there was sin in our lives then it's impossible for God to hear our prayers. I was always confused by this, focusing on whether or not he would hear my prayers of repentance I'd prayed for the thousandth time. It was really disturbing. I'd lie in bed for hours asking God to forgive me time and time again for the very same thing. More often than not, I didn't do it because I was so sorry. I did it because I was afraid of going to Hell and I as afraid God wasn't listening!

But this passage of scripture blows a big hole in that theory! God always hears. God is always listening. Here's the point: my sin makes it harder for me to hear God's voice, not him hear my voice. God's silence does not mean he's absent. My sin makes it harder for me to hear him, because I'm giving myself to other things.

The whole reason Samson is in this position is because he stopped listening to God and gave himself to everything but God. But when Samson was at the bottom of the pit, he turned to God and God showed his faithfulness.

So...may you know that God hears you, no matter how near or far away from him you think you are, you're never out of earshot. The Father is listening. Are you?

SOLO Day 24 – Judges 13:2-3, 6-9, 17-20

Just a quick note: the kid mentioned in the final verses is not a child, it's a goat. I didn't want there to be a misunderstanding-like God was asking them to sacrifice the child he just gave them. That's another story...

I love the real-ness that this story portrays. An angel show's up to Manoah's wife (weird that it doesn't mention her name, right?) and their response is, "Ask God to send the messenger again so we can figure out how to raise this kid!" I love that! Just a willingness to be honest.

And I can't help but wonder how Manoah felt hearing about the angel's appearance second hand. You ever experienced that. Something amazing or crazy awesome happens, but you hear about it from another person because you didn't get to experience it yourself? So Manoah prays that the angel will return, and it does, but again to his wife. How would you feel if that were you? You pray and ask God to move, and he does, but not to you directly or in the way you thought?!

Personally, this teaches me something about my prayer life. Am I praying selfishly, even if it's not intentionally selfish, even if it's subconsciously? I'm not implying that Manoah's prayer was selfish. I love that he responded to his wife's claims with prayer! Am I open to God responding how he wishes, or am I truly open to however and whatever he wants to do.

One other thought, from a completely opposite side of the spectrum: Manoah prayed and God gave him ownership. It wasn't his wife's story anymore-now he was a participant. God is always more real to us when we experience him for ourselves and not simply through another's eyes.

So may you feel comfortable asking God to speak to you further and give you greater insight. May you pray expecting him to respond, even if it's not the way you expect. And may your relationship to God be real and alive, because it's yours and not someone else's!

A blog too good not to share...

I've mentioned before that I'm a peddler of information. I love reading and seeing what others are saying, doing, creating etc.

I subscribe to a significant number of blogs (for a complete list just head to the home page of the blog) and I read several each day. Most are good and a few are great. Today, Steven Furtick's post was so great I had to share. You can read it by clicking here or by going to www.stevenfurtick.com

The only thing I'll add to Steven's post is this: God fights every battle for us - we live in his grace! We ought never believe that the we are to do nothing or we have no role to play. Our apathy gets us into all kinds of trouble. May we always remember we are slaves to Christ and he has called us to make disciples.

SOLO Day 23 – Judges 7:1-7

Who knows you better than anyone else in the world? For me, it's easy. My wife Carrie knows me so well, she can often predict How I'm going to react and sometimes, the very words I'll use.

This past week she was killing me! We were sitting on our couch chatting, and she was in rare form, making me laugh simply because she knew what I was thinking and I couldn't get anything past her. Even though I try to be spontaneous and hold my cards close to my chest, she can read me like a book. Rarely can I get anything by her.

Carrie knows me pretty well, but God knows me better! And by the way, he knows you too!

When I read this story I'm so impressed by the numbers that are involved. God lowers the numbers of the Israelite army from 32,000 to 300. Did you catch that? 31,700 Israelite soldiers have left! There are 300 men that Gideon leads against thousands upon thousands of Midianites. If you were to read the entire chapter of Judges 7 you'd read that God gave Gideon and the Israelites the victory. That's really cool, 300 verses thousands, and the Israelites win. Crazy odds-cool story!

But the one line that really jumped out at me was this, "You have too large an army with you. I can't turn Midian over to them like this—they'll take all the credit, saying, 'I did it all myself,' and forget about me." God knows our hearts. Just like Carrie can read me in certain circumstances God can read me ALWAYS. He knows our inclination to accept all the credit when something is great, but blame him when it's not. God doesn't desire to share his glory, just the blessings of it! And God's clear: 32,000 or even 10,000 soldiers overcoming the odds isn't miraculous enough. It needs to be evident that the odds were insurmountable-that the Israelites had no chance-without him.

Can you imagine what he can do through a life completely surrendered to him? I believe God's wants to do crazy, miraculous stuff in us and through us. What would happen if we humbled ourselves and asked him to do things that could only be done by him? The type of things there's no way I could do for myself so it's clearly a miracle.

My prayer is that we will see God do immeasurable things in us and through us, and that we ask for more. Not for things to be selfishly consumed or for things that improve our status, but the really crazy stuff like life change that's beyond yours and my capabilities! The really crazy wild things like eternal destination changes and healing within families. Stuff that only God can do. I pray that you will see and be a part! He knows you so well, and has your best in mind!

SOLO Day 22 – Joshua 9:3-9, 11, 14-16

Simple thought for today. "Is what God has done in the past, and who he is, enough for you to entrust your future? your present? your past?

I'd love to hear your comments on this question.

oh, and one more thing...HAPPY VALENTINE"S DAY

SOLO Day 21 – Reflect

Enjoy the break today from SOLO. Maybe you should take time to do something you've been putting off. Perhaps you should spend a few minutes sitting in silence. Whatever the case, enjoy the day God created and reflect on your interactions with him this week!

SOLO Day 20 – Joshua 9:3-9, 11, 14-16

Ever have one of those days when following Jesus seems so hard? I had one of those days recently! I've been trying to be diligent in following through with people and relationships. I've attempted to be a good steward of all that has been entrusted to me. I've even tried to ensure that I was Christ-like with everyone I've encountered. All-in-all, I feel like I'm doing a pretty good job. I'm a little tired, I'm a little strained, but my head's above water. Then I got an email from a friend...

I had done something that had offended my friend. It wasn't intentional. I wasn't being malicious. Honestly, I didn't think it was a big deal. Seems like a little bitty mistake. But apparently my actions had put a strain on the relationship. My friend took the high road. My friend approached me humbly. My friend confessed any offense that might be theirs. But my friend called me out, and no one likes that!

Honestly, this is not what I needed to hear. I'd had a stressful week where I've been on my best "Jesus behavior." I've worked tirelessly with little thanks and I'm getting ready for a really busy week leading to a really important event. I have been in meetings non-stop and my phone won't stop ringing...(seriously-I had to stop that sentence to answer two phone calls-on different phone lines!!!! Are you kidding me??????)

I read this passage and I think, "Man the Israelites can't catch a break." They get approached by a bunch of wandering waifs who cry out for mercy. The mere sight of the Hivites was probably enough to make them wonder what they could possibly have that God would want to give to Israel. So they agree to peace, because it makes good sense and seems like a nice thing to do. Then, right when they play nice, the rug gets pulled out from under them! It almost seems like a trick. They're doing their best-isn't that enough? What else does God want?

I'm reminded of a certain scripture in the New Testament. Jesus is speaking and says, "Apart from the Father, I can do nothing." Jesus was dependent on the Father. And if Jesus was dependent, the Israelites definitely have to be-and so do I. They didn't consult God. I'm not sure why, but they didn't speak to him about this issue. They were blind to the obvious.

It doesn't matter how good our "Jesus behavior" is. What matters is who we are. We're God's children, dependent on the Father for everything. We NEED him! We NEED to seek his face. We NEED to be humble enough to know that we're going to screw stuff up on our own. We NEED to listen when he says something and we NEED to do what he says!

So I apologized to my friend, and I apologized to my Father. I need to be listening to God's voice rather than my own. It's my hope that you too will allow God to speak into your blind spots, even if it hurts a little. The outcome is much better than a serious accident!

SOLO Day 19 – Joshua 1:1-9

Fear shows up in a variety of ways, huh? Insecurity, doubt, stress, even arrogance. Fear is often one of the most demoralizing and debilitating emotions we face. When fear runs into someone, the collision is often paralyzing.

I'm sure Joshua was feeling a lot of fear as he took over as leader of Israel. Moses was dead, and the time had come for him to step up and lead. I'm sure he had a flurry of emotions. Maybe he was anxious with anticipation. Perhaps he was overwhelmed at the responsibilities. He very well could have been excited that his time had finally come. Whatever his thoughts and feelings, one thing is sure: he was afraid.

You ever notice that God doesn't typically speak to something that's already done or happened? He doesn't regularly ask for absence of something good when it's already present. So when God tells Joshua "Strength, Courage" repeatedly, it's worth noting. God's repetition points out the significance of what He is saying. But his repetition also points out that Joshua has some fear issues.

Another thing gets repeated in this reading as well: "I". Remember, God is speaking to Joshua, and nine times he refers to himself. He is reminding Joshua that this is his story. God has a lot more riding on it than Joshua. God continues to remind Joshua that he's going to do the work. Joshua must be faithful, he has to have courage, he needs to remember God's words, but God is the one who is doing the work.

So let this be an encouragement to us. God promises himself-not just to Joshua-to us! Courage is not the absence of fear. It is trusting who is with us despite our greatest fears. May you trust that "God, your God is with you every step you take."

SOLO Day 18 – Deuteronomy Deuteronomy 34:1-4

When was the last time you felt you got cheated by God? C'mon, it's okay to be honest. When were you really feeling tricked or let down? A couple of years ago? Months? Weeks? Now?

There have been so many times when I've been disappointed that God didn't act or respond in the way I felt he should have. I've felt angry, rejected, ignored, overlooked, depressed, confused-I've even thought about walking away from him altogether. There are times when he seems to have my best in mind, then out of nowhere-boom! Now there have been times when I knew I was just being selfish or I wanted something for the wrong reasons. But some of those times I felt completely justified with my emotions.

I can't help but think this isn't fair for Moses. He's led this group of whiners and complainers for 40 years, he's been called a friend of God, and he's been pretty faithful when all is said and done. There's even a section of scripture that where Moses appears to convince God not to wipe out the Israelites! All said, it appears he's a pretty great leader who deserves to enjoy all his hard work. It's just not fair that God wouldn't allow him to take them in to the Promised Land!

It says in Deuteronomy 4 that Moses found out he was not going to cross the Jordan. Moses seemingly had every reason to question and be upset, but Moses chose to humbly accept God's plan. That's why the scripture said Moses was the most humble man on the face of the earth. He chose God's plan, chose to pour into Joshua, chose to leave a legacy.

How do you respond when God says no?

So may you trust God fully, even when he says no!

SOLO Day 17 – Deuteronomy 24:10-15, 17-22

Growing up, my dad seemed like a tyrant when it came to household chores. Each day the same tasks had to be carried out. If they weren't done well, I'd have to repeat them. But no chore was more important than keeping a well maintained yard. I remember one time in particular when I was forced to go back and mow the the yard again on a lower setting, less than 10 minutes after I had finished the first time. My father felt it should be a quarter of an inch shorter. Had I read my Bible I totally would have had ammunition to use against him. I would have quoted to him proudly, "Deuteronomy 24 says do a poor job on the chores!”

It's interesting to me that God is a sloppy gardener. If there was ever a weird statement in the Old Testament, it’s “Don’t beat the olive tree twice!” What a crazy law. How random? But the heart of God shines through this odd law: Those who have are to look after those who have not!

How cool is it that God is looking out for the needs of you and me!?! He's not so self-absorbed that he forgets about the needs of others. He focuses on taking care of those who don't have enough. When you harvest the grain, leave a little behind. When your picking olives, don't do too good of a job-someone who's hungry may come by. How nuts is that? What would the world be like if we lived like this?

Truth is, God's not sloppy at all. He's always thinking about others! So may you choose to be diligent and work hard, but not simply so you can have more. May you look to the needs of others, knowing that we're to take care of each other as God takes care of us!

SOLO Day 16 – Deuteronomy 10:12-21

I have two friends who are getting married in a few days. They're rushing around trying to get stuff together-dot all the i's, cross all the t's-and I can't help but reminisce. I remember running errands the morning of our wedding, not really knowing what was in store. I remember my brother-in-law acting like he forgot the ring, my pastor forgetting his mic, and walking out in front of the crowd. But what I'll never forget was seeing Carrie walking through the door at the back of that church. A wave of emotions hit me and it was all I could do not to cry and burst out in laughter at the same time. I was a wreck! I was sure I loved her more than anyone could ever love another human being. But I was wrong.

Fast forward almost eleven years. I watch students flock to her and listen to them giggle at some story she tells. I observe her determination to out-work anyone on any compassion effort, that is until a person walks up. Then she stops the work of ministry in order to be a minister: to interact with a total stranger. I pause as she asks me how to spell some random word because she's typing a note to send to a friend. My heart flutters over and over and I know I love her more now than I ever did when we said "I do." I'm certain no one can love more deeply. But I'm still wrong.

"God fell in love." He fell so hard for us that sacrifice wasn't even a second. He fell in love so deeply that he was willing to give up the one he loved-his only son-for you and for me. That's a crazy love God has for us. I'm going to have to really love someone to die for them! Self-sacrifice is noble and pretty selfless. But to give up whom I love most in order to save someone else? To sacrifice who I share my greatest intimacies with? Who has loved me through thick and thin? That's insane-that's a crazy love.

So may you know that God fell for you. May you feel the depths of his care and glimpse the severity of his sacrifice. And may you see with your own eyes that he's straight up crazy in love with you!

SOLO Day 14 – Reflect

If you're following along in SOLO, be sure to take time to reflect upon what you read this week. If you missed a day or two, pick up on the day we're on. Learn from the past but keep looking forward. Enjoy a day of rest!

SOLO Day 15 – Deuteronomy 6:1-9

I could learn a lot from a deeply committed Jew.

Did you know that for thousands of years there has been such a deep reverence for God's name, Jewish scribes would use a different ink or different pen to write the name of God-because his name is that holy. Often the Israelites refused to even say the name of God, because it was too holy to be uttered. In the giving of the law, every instruction was to be carefully followed, so it makes perfect sense that they would make phylacteries to hold the scripture about their heads and carry prayer shawls. This was the Holy God that brought them out of Egypt. A holy God that made the mountains shake when he met with Moses. A Holy God that would provide manna from the sky and water from a rock. He is big, He is powerful, He is good, He is holy. Their deep reverence and righteous fear is inspiring and beautiful. Their commitment to it runs deep into every fabric of their culture. How cool is that?

But we humans have an amazing way of messing with God's creation. Missing the heart of God in the shema (Attention, Israel! God, our God! God the one and only!), Israel chose to cozy up and worship the rules rather than the Rule-giver. And we do the same thing. We cry out for freedom, yet secretly want rules because then life's black-and-white. So Jesus comes and refers to God as "Abba" or Daddy, to show that God is an approachable, personal, father. He is still Holy and longs for our unbridled reverence and devotion, but he's so much bigger than the rules he's given.

I could learn a lot about devotion and commitment from a deeply committed Jew, and I'm sure you could too. So may you and I learn to hold deep reverence for God and for his word. May we never forget that God is our God! and he is the one and only! And may we know that we can run to him in confidence, knowing him as the Holy, approachable Abba!

SOLO Day 13 – Numbers 35:9-15

When I was 17 years old I decided to skip school without my parents permission. This was a big no-no in my house. Once as a child I had a fever of well over 100 and but my dad sent me anyway, mumbling something about the importance of my education. He gave me two aspirin and told me to tough it out. An hour later the nurse was calling my father asking him to leave work and come pick me up. He was so mad when he got in the car, I thought he was going to kill me! He yelled at me saying, "You didn't even give the aspirin time to work!" Safe to say I learned my father was quite passionate about my being at school when it was open!

But I chose to skip anyway, choosing to spend time with some friends from a different school district who happened to be on a day off. Because this was such a rare thing, the attendance secretary, who knew me from church, didn't give it a second thought. I had just gotten away with the perfect crime, or so I thought.

After a few days, I began to feel guilty for skipping class. I know that probably sounds crazy to you, but I knew how passionate my parents were about my school attendance. I had clearly disobeyed their wishes, and I felt like God was asking me to apologize. After wrestling with this concept for several days, I accepted my fate and came home to confess. I told my mom first-she was almost always the softy. I hoped that would be enough, but she said the words I feared most at that moment: "You have to tell your father."

I still remember going into my parent's room. I told my dad what I'd done, and I waited for my world to fall. I'll never forget his response, "You've been carrying this around for two weeks now?" I nodded nervously. "Well I guess you've suffered enough." With that, he was done. I looked at my mother, her mouth hanging open in shock, and thought to myself, "this can't be!"

That day I was surprised by my dad's grace, and today I'm awed by my Father's grace. Only a loving, compassionate God would think of the needs of the outcast. Only a God of mercy would create a place of refuge for those condemned by others bent on revenge. I'm so grateful he's the God of both justice and mercy, and that his will is trustworthy.

I've never really paid much mind to this passage until today, but I'm so glad I was reminded of our Father's character.

So may you choose forgiveness rather than revenge, and may you be surprised at God's grace and mercy in his dealings with you!

SOLO Day 12 – Numbers 14:17-24

Caleb is the man! He's such a cool character in scripture because he refuses to look at the obstacles in front without looking back to see where's been. He tries to persuade the people to look beyond the obvious. Yeah, the people are big. Yeah there's a lot of them. Yeah, this isn't going to be easy. BUT God is with us. God has told us to go. God rescued us out of Egypt. God parted the Red Sea. God gave us food from Heaven and water from a rock. God is bigger than these people. God's been faithful.

Courageous people stand out. Their voice stands out in a crowd. And people aren't the only ones who notice. God takes notice of courageous people, especially those who trust him. Too often we're busy looking around when we should be looking in. Instead of listening to the voices around us, what is God saying? Take a look at God's character. Is there any reason to doubt something he's said?

I'm not trying to oversimplify this, but I regularly listen to the voices around me rather than listening to the voice of God.

So who's in your head? Who's voice are you listening to? What's keeping you from trusting God fully, so much so that you seem a little crazy when you look at the obvious?

May you choose to storm ahead when all those around you say wait. And when you do may your Father in heaven remind you of your different spirit and your unbridled passion for Him!

SOLO Day 11 – Numbers 9:4-5, 9-12

If you were to walk into my office right now, you'd wonder two things: 1) What tornado hit Springfield last night? and 2) What's with all the random stuff on your shelves?

To answer your first question, I'm in the process of re-arranging! That will be finished tomorrow. My response to your second question would simply be, "those items aren't random. They're ebenezers!"

In the church I grew up attending we would sing nothing but hymns. One of my favorite hymns is "Come thou fount of every blessing." When I was young it seemed weird singing, "Here I raise mine Ebenezer; hither by thy help I’m come..." I immediately think of Ebenezer Scrooge. Ebenezer was a funny name given to the uncle nobody liked. But as I got older I learned the meanings of the word ebenezer.

In 1 Samuel 7:12-13 we see that the word comes from the Bible. It says, "Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us." So the Philistines were subdued and did not invade Israelite territory again."

An ebenezer is a monument-it's something to help you remember. In the passage of Numbers read today it's clear that Moses wants the people to remember God's saving them at passover. He wants them to remember! He has them do specific things, ritually, so that they can reflect on what it was like that day when they were filled with uncertainty and God came through. He wanted them to remember, and God wanted them to remember

So when you see the rock siting on a shelf in my office, you can know it serves as a reminder of the mountain I've climbed: twice. Or the picture of me in a dress-that's from when students went to Six Flags to celebrate a week of service at Mission Arlington! All those random things are my ebenezers, and they're invaluable in helping me remember God's goodness!

So may you become a collector of ebenezers. And when you see them, may you remember who God is and what he has done!

SOLO Day 10 – Leviticus 22:1-8

One of the things that strikes me most about the book of Leviticus is it's detail and articulation regarding details. Details of feasts, details of clothing, details of sacrifices, details of details! Why are there so many specifics in this book?

I get frustrated at details. I know they're important, it's just I'm more of a big picture guy. There are times I get so impatient looking at little nuances and minute information. Regularly, I'll get irritated at all the intricacies, just wanting to sweep them under the rug and deal with them later. I'll lie to myself saying, "There's so many big picture things that are just more important." I'll fall in love with the looks of the boat, without even realizing it has so many leaks-that it would sink in minutes.

Details are really important, and that's why God spends so much time on them in the first five books of the Bible, especially Leviticus and Numbers. There are times when they seem repetitive and boring, but we can't let that fool us-God is in the details!

This passage specifically speaks to the responsibility a priest would have to go through when it comes to fulfilling his role. While you may be thinking, “that’s great, but I’m not a priest,” hang with me. God is wanting to ensure we are prepared for our roles! He wants to ensure that we’re ready for the task at hand, whatever it may be.

Many times I’ve been frustrated by God’s detail, sometimes I’ve been excited. There have been times where I felt offended (like when I first read this passage), but as I continue to read, the truth becomes clear: The details show his tireless thoughts about us. They reveal what’s always in the forefront of his mind (if he has a mind)-you and me. And he never wants us to go about our business unprepared. He wants us to trust him, but be real and know our responsibilities. Interesting, huh?

So may we see his love for us in the details. May we share the same thoughtfulness he shares, and may we prepare ourselves accordingly, because God has something great in store!

SOLO Day 9 – Leviticus 16:20-22

The Jewish holiday Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is still celebrated today. In the Old Testament it was reserved as a day reserved for the high priest to act and speak on behalf of the entire people of Israel. After 10 days of fasting and praying, the nation of Israel would gather together in a holy moment, when the sins of the people would be laid upon the scapegoat. The goat would be taken out to the wilderness, never to be seen again, symbolic of the sins of the people being taken away – never again to be remembered.

The Christian tradition is similar. When we ask for forgiveness, we're go boldly to God "so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) We confess openly and honestly, because, if we do, " he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9) We must remember that God loves us. He showed us by sending "his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him." (1 John 4:9) In short, Jesus became our scapegoat. God "sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." (1 John 4:10)

There's a little Christian and Jewish history for you. But I'd challenge us take one big principle from the Day of Atonement! When the goat is gone, let it be gone. Our sins have been paid for and forgiven-once and for all-by the perfect sacrifice of Jesus. Our pasts need not haunt us, because they're forgiven. Don't live in the wallow of self-doubt and self-hatred. There's no greater idolatry. God has redeemed our lives, and as Rob Bell has so eloquently put, "the goat has left the building!"

So may you know that your sin is forgiven and that there are no yesterdays. May you see that God forgives completely, and it's time to forgive yourself. Remember, the goat is gone, the price is paid, and you are loved by the Redeemer!

SOLO Day 8 – Leviticus 4:32-35

According to Merriam-Webster, absolution is "the act of absolving; a remission of sins". The Absolution-Offering was the payment for sin. In other words, a lamb would serve as the sacrifice.

I often chat with people who get really disturbed when referring to the sacrifices and offerings section of scripture. They just can't seem to get over how cruel and violent it appears to be. That God would require an innocent animal to die to cover sin-how barbarian and uncivilized? Honestly, I can agree that it's inhumane and dark. That's what sin is, and that's how it must be absolved.

Remember back in the garden of Eden, when Adam and Eve ate the fruit and realized they were naked? For them to be "covered" an innocent animal had to die to provide their clothing. According to God's law, sin must be paid for. In the Old Testament, animals had to pay the price.

I have a great dog named Mitzie. I think she's one of the best dogs on the planet, but I'm biased. She's a fantastic dog. She's quiet, she doesn't make a mess, she's loyal, and she has a bladder of steel! I've had several other people mention what a great dog she is. Carrie and I have been told how lucky we are to have the "perfect" dog!

But I can assure you, Mitzie is not perfect. She is obsessed with food. She doesn't get along with most other dogs. She can be jealous of our cat. And I'm not even going to bring up why we have to gate the kitten's litter box! Point is, as great as Mitzie is, and as innocent as she appears, she is not perfect! She, like any other animal, is flawed. The Absolution-Offering had to be repeated, because people kept sinning, even after the sacrifice (a pesky problem that still persists today) and no animal could cover all their sin-past, present and future.

That's why, when Jesus came, John the Baptist refers to him as the "lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." He was the perfect sacrifice. Jesus had to die to cover all humanity's sin, once and for all. But he didn't stay dead, he rose again, to show he had power over sin and death.

Sin must be paid for. It's ugly, terrible, and dark. But praise be to God that we don't have to pay for our own sin. Christ is the only hope.

So may you see that sin is terrible, it's cost is supreme, and that someone has to pay. But may you also remember, that Jesus paid it all, once and for all time, so that you wouldn't have to, if you only will trust him with your life.

SOLO Day 7 – Reflect

Just a quick note: If you're following along in SOLO, great job this week! You've read some great stuff in the Bible and you've been diligent to continue. Congratulations! Keep up the great work, knowing that God will honor your effort to spend time with him. Hopefully you've already begun to see that!

The weekend will be a time to look back on what we've read and studied throughout the week. My hope is that you will spend today reflecting on what you've read and ask God to open your heart and mind to more of what he longs for you to see. I'm certain he will answer and you will have greater intimacy with the God who loves you!

Thanks for taking this journey with me.

Blessings!

SOLO Day 6 – Exodus 33:21-34:7

Have you ever bought into something so deeply you wanted to own it? Maybe a sport-you started out as a player, but as time progressed you began to put more of an emphasis on it. You were no longer just a player, you became a team member, then maybe you progressed to a captain. Slowly, but surely, this became all you talked about and thought about. Bill Hybels, in his book Axiom, refers to this as the difference between an owner and a hireling, or a hired hand. You know longer are working for "the man", you own the vision. You believe in what you're doing.

This is exactly what's going on with Moses. He's no longer the timid man that encounters God through a burning bush. He's seen God's faithfulness over and over again. Now he meets with God and they converse as friends. He's not just the hired hand anymore. He cares about God's vision. He cares about these people he's been placed in charge of. He wants in on God's plans and he wants to see God with his own eyes. He's become an owner.

Personally, I love Moses' boldness! I want to be like that in my conversations with God. I want to come to him and know that we're so close, we can talk about anything! I want to com to him-not making demands-but honestly with real requests, knowing that he's going to hear me and respond. Then let the chips fall where they may. Are you that honest with God?

God responds and says, "Okay, I'll speak, so that you know I'm coming by, then you can see my back, because if you see my face you'll die". So God does this, and even places Moses in a corner of rock and covers his Moses's eyes with his hand (because I'm sure Moses tried to peek) until he's passed so Moses can catch a glimpse of his glory. (If we were to keep reading we'd see that Moses comes down off the mountain and he literally glows after being in the presence of God. It's such a scary thing for the people of Israel that he has to wear a veil like a woman, otherwise they keep freaking out. How cool is that?)

So may we come boldly to God, knowing he's already waiting to sit with us, and may we be real and honest, because we want to own the vision he has for our lives. And may we glow after we've been with him, so that all mankind may know we are God's friend!

SOLO Day 5 – Exodus 16:9-16

God cares about your needs. Probably not a mind-blowing concept, but it's true. Recently Carrie and I went through a challenging season of our lives. We went to bed every night and asked God to rescue us. Yet he remained silent. To an extent, he still remains silent.

However, we began to see certain things fall into place that couldn't have happened unless God was at work. Specific people came and helped us out. Aid came in interesting ways. God was answering our prayers, just not in the way we expected.

There have been so many times in my life when I felt confused, disappointed, even angry at God. Could he not see the pain I was going through? Could he not understand I was trying to do the best I could do? Did he not get the fact that I was one of his followers-I was even a youth pastor, working for him? How could he not answer me and take care of me when others seemed to be so blessed?

In those moments, it's good for me to look at this story. The Israelites have already been rescued by God, They saw the ten plagues poured out on Egypt. They saw God part the waters of the Red Sea when there was no way out. God had even made bitter water sweet and drinkable, so they didn't die as they were traveling through the desert. In all of those circumstances, God did something remarkable. It wasn't what the Israelites expected, and showed his absolute power.

God cares about your needs. Do not mistake his silence for absence. Perhaps he's waiting to shock you with his provision.

May you see God's rescue and may you praise the one true God, because he's crazy about you!

Too funny!!!

I saw this on Margaret Feinberg's blog today! It brought me so much joy I can't help but share!

SOLO Day 4 – Exodus 3:1-6

I love this story!!!!! Moses, saved from certain death is raised in the very palace where the king commanded his death. Tries to bring about change for the Israelites his own way and gets run out of town. Meets a woman, gets married, has kids, starts a new life as a shepherd in the middle of nowhere. Grows old and watches Dad-in-laws livestock. Moses is a far different man than he was in Egypt.

Prior to committing murder (yeah, he did that-and God still used him! Crazy huh?) Moses' life seemed like it was going to take a particular path. It seemed logical that he would rise in power in Pharaoh's court. Then, at the opportune time, he would free all Israel from their bondage and everyone would live happily ever after. But this was not God's plan. Instead, God was going to show his power, his way so that he and he alone would be the way of salvation.

One day, while Moses is minding his own business, this old man stops and takes a look around (at his age, he probably needed a breather). While he's looking he sees something extraordinary, miraculous in fact. He approaches the bush and then, everything changes.

Moses looks. And when he does he sees far more than he ever could have imagined. Moses' life was far from over. In fact, it was only truly beginning. His life will never be the same, because he looked.

When is the last time you stopped to take a breather. When did you last sit back, look around, and take life in? Could it be that the reason you're struggling to see God is because you're so busy you can't even take a look around? Did you know that God rarely does the same thing twice, but that he's at work now, just as he was then? Did you know that you're a part of his master plan, and perhaps your burning bush moment is right there in the periphery?

I don't want to oversimplify this, but busyness is an enemy of God. We're not all going to have burning bush moments, but we must have our eyes open, looking to see what God is up to, or we will never see the bush in the distance!

So may you take time to stop and look around. And may you come face-to-face with the Living God when you do so. And in that moment, may you see the extraordinary miracle of a Holy God meeting with you!

SOLO Day 3 – Genesis 50:15-21

Joseph's grieving the loss of his father. His loss is different than his brothers because he never thought he would ever see Jacob again. Joseph lost his father before when he was sold away, and those years can never be recovered. But God gave them another chance at life together when Joseph opened his house to his family, rescuing them from the famine. Their reunion was moving and their time together was sweet. But now that time is over. Jacob is dead, and the brothers are reeling. They want to ensure that Joseph wasn't just being good to them for Dad's sake-so they lie.

Ever been there? Moments of doubt when fear comes creeping in. Thoughts of "You aren't good enough!" or "It was too good to be true" hit you in a wave of emotions. They have a good life in Egypt, and they want to keep it that way. Anxiety and doubt dominate the thoughts. Personally, I can relate to the brothers in this story.

But Joseph is a conundrum!

"When Joseph received their message, he wept." Joseph, despite being thrown into a well then sold into slavery by his brothers, wept. Despite being falsely accused of rape, being left to rot in a prison, even after being lied to and lied about, he wept. And when Joseph rose to power, wanted for nothing, and held his betraying brothers' future in his hands, he wept.

His brothers doubted him. His brothers didn't get it. I don't fully understand it. His mercy was unexplainable. His forgiveness was beyond comprehension. His love was unconditional. In other words, Joseph was just like Jesus.

May we be like Joseph, and be a conundrum to those who don't know the love and mercy of a Savior, and may we be like his brothers, who marvel at the goodness of the one who controls our destiny.

Solo Day 2 – Genesis 32:22-32

I've always thought this was such a weird story in scripture. For the record, I've never thought too highly of Jacob. I know that God's people are named after him ,but I've always wondered why God chose to be aligned with such a crooked dude. In this story, Jacob's making his homecoming after years of being in hiding. It appears he's staying at the back of the caravan because he's nervous about coming face-to-face with the brother he cheated who, by the way, wanted to kill him. But it's a homecoming nonetheless, so maybe all's forgiven. But just to be safe, he chooses to hang back and send everyone else on up ahead.

Out of nowhere, a man meets Jacob, and they have a good old fashioned "rasslin'" match? I know that's the first thing I do when I meet someone for the first time! They wrestle for hours and as the sun comes up, the man tries to get away and touches Jacob's hip, wounding him. But Jacob won't let him go, at least not until he gets blessed (there's the Jacob we all know and love). The man asks for Jacob's name. Jacob responds, and the man says, "Not anymore!" He renames him Israel-blesses him-takes off-Jacob limps away-and Jews don't eat hip muscle-the end! Like I said, weird!

But today I put myself in Jacob's shoes and I'm reminded of a song by Big Daddy Weave titled, "Audience of One". There's a line that caught my attention the first time I heard, and continues to echo in my brain: "...seeking your face, and not only your hand, I find you embracing me, just as I am". Do I wrestle with God because I want to be blessed or because I want to know him more. Is the reason I want to be with God is because I'm content to be with him or because I want something out of it? Am I only in this relationship with the almighty God only for what's in it for me?

Truth is, I regularly seek God's hand, but not his face. It's okay to want from God, but do I want him more than I want his blessing? Some tough thoughts to wrestle with.

So may you be like Jacob and wrestle with God. Hang on for dear life, and know that he will acknowledge your grip on him. And may we see that the prize for the match is already in our tight-gripped hands!

SOLO Day 1 – Genesis 3:1-10

It's interesting to see how creation plays itself over and over again. The story of our lives begins at the Garden of Eden-before we were even born. God creates something good-sin enters-God must come and re-create. The world is not as it should be, and it all ties back to Genesis 3.

Three things leap out at me from this passage:

1. Sin has a powerful ripple affect. Think your decisions affect no one but yourself? Look at Genesis 3. I doubt Adam and Eve knew so much was riding on this one little choice.
2. That first sin just keeps coming up throughout history: "God's holding out on you!" The fall of man came from a basic premise that is still prevalent today. It stems from a lack of trust in God and a desire for more. Satan twists God's words and places that little seed of doubt in Eve's mind. "There's more out there. It's better over here. God doesn't want you to have any fun! The lie grows and we bite the apple!
3. From that moment of sin, God's redemptive plan kicks into motion. Something innocent must pay so that new life can begin again!

And that's good news for all of us. Christ is the perfect sacrifice that takes away the sins of the world! Perhaps you simply need to remember God's sacrifice today!

The blog is back!

So it's been a long time coming...

"No blog posts in nine months or so, without any explanation. Cory, what's going on?"

I'm so glad you asked. It seems my life has changed pretty dramatically over the past 9 months. Carrie and I have moved back home to Missouri, I've started a new job (still in Student Ministry) but now I'm at a different church in Springfield,Missouri where I was born and grew up!


"Ummmm, wow Cory. That's a lot of change. I had no idea you were looking for a new job!"

Funny you should say that. We weren't. We were (and still are) trying to hear God's voice and follow his leading. This was clearly a God thing, though it's nice to be home!


"Okay. Well, that still doesn't explain your lack of blogging and commentary!"

I completely agree. But in the midst of such an emotional decision and change, starting well and getting to know new students and leaders, I didn't want anything to be posted on the world-wide-web that wasn't thought through. I was dripping with emotional tension, and felt I should allow a seasonal siesta to reign in the blogosphere.


"Does this mean your back to blogging once a day for a month and then once every six weeks again?"

I don't like your tone, but yes, it does mean I'll be blogging on a more regular basis.

"Are you always going to act as if someone else is talking and asking questions like this. It's kind of weird that you're having a conversation with yourself."

I agree, it is weird. So no, I won't do this on a regular basis. I just figured...well...why am I still doing this? I'm writing myself.

Okay, so the blog is back and I'll continue to write some of the learnings I've had over the past few months, as well as anything that I think is relevant or beneficial. This will also serve as a site for our students at Second Baptist to visit as we go through SOLO. In other words, lots of stuff.

It's nice to be back. Let's have some fun! Peace out all.

"Bye!"