33" was the official total in Boulder on Wednesday. We easily topped 2 ft at our neighborhood, if not 3ft. The park was a winter wonderland and we enjoyed it.

Jonatha was her usual fearless self when I challenged her to take the jump my way...

Jan showed off her snow angel at the conclusion of the day...

I simply enjoyed the pow and wish I could just stay there all day...

And Aidan was all boy as he helped me shovel the driveway...

Polar Express

This past weekend the Tighe Family enjoyed our Christmas gift to one another (yes, we're cheap) by driving to Durango, CO to ride the Polar Express. The famous Durango-Silverton train does a Polar Express trip which is just like the movie. Visit www.durangotrain.com for more details.

We started out by making sure our tickets were good, so the Conductor can call for them after we board...

Then we all put on our fake smiles for the family photo (note Aidan's hot chocolate mouth)...

And what good is a Polar Express train ride without Santa himself!

Emmaus Road Update

The ER team had one of our "Super Sundays" last night, reflecting on the year's highlights and discussing the things God has taught us and where he is leading us. Our Super Sundays are 3-4 hour training sessions which include intensive training and praying. Last night's meeting was refreshing and very encouraging. Everyone on the team was involved in discussing the vision and direction of Emmaus Road and the input was more than valuable.

Some interesting "tweaks" have been made to our ministry, but really nothing related to the philosophy which remains as it was from the start. The tweaks mostly involve verbage to better reflect, in our culture, what we are doing. For example, "life group" is a term that is phased out and is replaced with "house church." This may not resonate well with the Berean Fellowship, but we are not in a typical Berean Fellowship ministry. In Boulder, "house church" resonates and seems to be an acceptable phrase. We also now will be reflecting on our ministry with 3 "expressions". The expressions include House Churches, Gatherings and Launch Teams. House Churches will be exactly that...multiple churches meeting in homes across Boulder County. Now that Phase 1 is nearing completion for the original Emmaus Road launch team, we will begin dividing into multiple house churches, starting with two churches. Gatherings are our monthly or bi-monthly corporate worship gatherings for all the Emmaus Road community. Launch Teams are those families and individuals who believe God is calling them to uproot and move to Boulder to begin training for this kind of ministry, just as the original 6 families did this year. We are looking at recruiting for next year a new launch team to move to the area and start training (two families have already indicated this possible move, one from Florida and another from Denver). How exciting is that!

Doing life with our communities is still essential and really the heartbeat of our ministry. Our goal is not to "raise the flag" and hope people show up. Our goal is to reproduce ourselves into the lives of others, both unbelievers and believers alike. And, of course, this means getting dirty and doing the tough job of going to people in our community and meeting them where they are, which doesn't include a church building.

The longer we live here, the more convinced we are that ER is heading in the right direction and fulfilling what God has called us to do. It's amazing to hear all the stories from each family of how God is at work. I can't wait to see where we are in December 2007. Would you pray for us? We are a God dependent community and prayer is essential to the success of this ministry. Pray for wisdom, direction and most importantly the multiplication of the kingdom. Emmaus is not concerned about growth in our ministry near as much as growth in the kingdom. Thank you for supporting us this way!

One last thing, check out our newly launched website at www.emmausroadonline.org.

Friends

Good friends can be hard to find...this group is never hard to find. God has blessed Jan and I with the greatest of friends. People who love God, follow him, and passionately share their faith. People who value friendship, family and faith. People who allow me to be myself. I am hard pressed to think of a better group to hang with. Thank you Brinkers, Cheeks, Deans, Kautzs, Luses.

Armed and Dangerous

Revelation 1:13

One like "a son of man" appeared to John in Patmos, and the beloved disciple noticed that He wore "a golden sash." A sash, for Jesus was never unprepared while on earth, but always stood ready for service; and now before the eternal throne He continues His ministry as our great High Priest...Spurgeon

I've been praying much differently lately. I have had my routine turned upside down. It seems God has been teaching me lately to be girded up so to speak...to be ready, armed. Not in a defensive mindset, rather offensive. I believe this is how Jesus approached prayer. He didn't wait for people's needs to arise before dealing with them in prayer. He prayed in a way so as to prepare for those situations and needs, then took action when they came up. I admit, I typically prayer after the situation or need arises. So what's the deal with the sash? Well, it reminds us of Jesus' royalty, his kingship. And, it is tight, not loose, ready for action. He stands before the Father on our behalf at all times. Never does a moment arise where the Holy Father sees me outside of his vision of Jesus. Rose-tinted, blood stained eyesight.

So, what's my response? Well, honestly, I sin. I'm lazy. I procrastinate. I act selfishly. I act goofy or dorky. I look like the Greatest American Hero (really bad 80's show, but if you're in your 30's you know you watched it). Yet, he commands me to be ready, to take stand, to wear the belt of truth. He commands me to be in full armor, prepared for battle (Ephesians 6). He must think I am able (by his grace of course). Isn't that encouraging? God asks us to do what he knows we can do. To stand, armed and dangerous, yes dangerous. Watch out unbeliever! I am ready for battle. Want to question my faith? Bring it on. Want to trip me up and tempt me to live of the world. Try again. Want to confuse me and subtly brainwash me into politically correct philosophies. I don't think so. You will fail because I am ready...Jesus' sash is tightened and he stands for me. And now, I stand, belt tightened and ready for battle.

--Peter

Zechariah 1:20

In the vision described in this chapter, the prophet saw four terrible horns. They were pushing this way and that way, dashing down the strongest and the mightiest; and the prophet asked, "What are these?" The answer was, "These are the horns that have scattered Judah." He saw before him a representation of those powers that had oppressed the Church of God...Spurgeon

Interesting to say the least, in my opinion. These dreamy visions in the Bible can seem overwhelming, but usually the message is simple. This vision reveals a simple message...the powers that are against the Church are always at work and come from every angle to attack. Think your life is running along smoothly with no attacks? Think again. If you are so much as even attempting to live faithfully for the Savior of men, expect to be attacked. And it may not be so obvious. I was reminded of this truth this week as I pondered why my kids have been so restless and contentious lately. In the book "Wild At Heart" by J. Eldridge, he comments that Satan will stop at nothing, even attacking your children to promote strife, arguments and frustration in your family. He will use subtle methods to create marital problems and divide the family. We chalk it up to everyday problems, while Satan sits back and laughs at our ignorance. Some attacks are, indeed, obvious. As a family, we have been dealing with an obvious attack for 4 months now. One in which someone is trying their best to thwart my effort to move on in life. You'd think it would be over, yet God continues to permit the situation. We are trusting it's for our good and will continue to cause growth in our lives. But don't think for a second we don't want it to end.

There were four horns, for the church is attacked from all quarters. The prophet had good reason to feel dismayed; but suddenly there appeared before him "four craftsmen." He asked, "What are these coming to do?" These were the men whom God had found to break those horns in pieces. God will always find men for His work, and He will find them at the right time...Spurgeon

The attacks not only come, but from the 4 quarters of our lives. Translation? From everywhere. Yesterday, while leaving for work, I missed a step on the stairs. I struggled down the flight a good 10 steps before recovering (the wall and handle saved my tail). I got spun around in every direction and finally slammed into the wall, coming to a stop with my ankle throbbing. I felt as though someone had spun me and pushed me down the stairs. Often in our daily lives, Satan does just this. He pushes us and then cruely spins us around spiritually, so we don't even have a bearing. Then we "try our best" to recover. Problem is God doesn't need us to "try our best." He needs us to rely on him to provide the resources and strength to recover us. And he is doing just that...providing everything needed to recover...everything.

And interestingly enough, in the vision, the terrible horns are dashing down the "strongest and mightiest." I know for certain I am not the strongest or mightiest, yet I still attempt to recover on my own. It's such a shame when I catch myself trying to be the craftsman. God must find it humorous. In his grace, he gently directs me back to reality.

--Peter

San Diego

Well I have tons of photos from my father-son trip to San Diego visiting Grandpa Ed and Grandma Chan, so here are a few albums. Aidan was sporting his new hair-do and lookin' cool. We had some time at the beach, some time at the zoo and lots of time at Grandpa Ed's hot tub.

Spending time with my dad and Chan was special. Aidan enjoyed our time to Miramar Reservoir, too. Especially the ginormous duck creatures we saw. I have no idea what they were, but they were as big as Aidan, literally. Of course, he chased them and then tried to beat the other smaller ducks with a stick.

Dad and Chan mean the world to us. Through the years, they have been supportive of our family decisions and always are there to lend an ear to our personal struggles. We love them dearly and wish we could see them more often.

Risen Thoughts...

Well, I have been off the blog the past week, as Aidan and I took a trip to San Diego to see my Dad and his wife Chan. So consider me a slacker...anyway, pics from the trip to surely come by weekend. In the meantime, here are some devotional thoughts today:

"The doctrine of a risen Savior is exceedingly precious. The resurrection is the cornerstone of the entire building of Christianity. It is the keystone of the arch of our salvation. It would take a volume to set out all the streams of living water that flow from this one sacred source, the resurrection of our dear Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. But to know that He has risen, and to have fellowship with Him as such-communing with the risen Savior by possessing a risen life-seeing Him leave the tomb by leaving the tomb of worldliness ourselves-this is even more precious still." -- Spurgeon

2006 has brought me to a better understanding that my access to Jesus runs very deep, deeper than the deepest well. My communion with him is more than a "quiet time" or reading my Bible. It's more than singing praise songs or even praying with my family. It is an intimacy that cannot be expressed fully in words. It's a communion of two lovers, one loved perfectly and the other trying to love back with great fault. Despite my faults, Jesus awaits me every single day to talk with him, weep with him and celebrate life with him. He is risen! Should I not be risen with him? Should I not awake each day with fervent passion for life? Should I not pursue souls with abandon? Should I not love my family with all I have? Of course I should...my every breath should lead me closer to him.

I have been wrestling in my heart lately as to how I can bring this reality into my life. To intimately walk with Jesus with an honest, transparent heart. I'm still learning. Responding to his leading has certainly brought me into closer fellowship with him. It's rewarding - not in an earthly, material sense, rather in an eternal, spiritual sense. Praise God for his patience with me, too, for I am often a stubborn learner.

-- Peter

Home Inside of Me

"What an honor to entertain the Son of God! The heaven of heavens cannot contain Him, and yet He condescends to find a house within our hearts! We are not worthy that He should come under our roof, but what an unutterable privilege when He condescends to enter!" - Spurgeon

Back in 1991, Wes King wrote a song called "Home Inside of Me". Its one of my all-time favorites. I can hear "of all the places you could be, you choose to make your home inside of me." That song burned a thought in my mind as a young believer that God dwells where he pleases. The universe is his creation. The universe is not vast enough to contain him, yet his chooses to dwell in the hearts of believers. God also chose to dwell among us a human for roughly 30 years. He chose to do it as an average looking man, humble, hard-working, meek. He did not come in triumphant grandeur with trumpets blasting and angels singing. He showed up as a baby boy in a rejected location surrounded by dirt, crap, and animals. He entered the world of smells and sin. He then lived among us knowing his true home was somewhere else and to get back there, he would have to suffer the greatest of all suffering. Then, for those who accept him, he sends his Spirit to dwell in us. The Spirit protects, comforts, corrects, and encourages us in our walk. God is with us every thought, word and step of the day. He dwells in me as I type this blog. He knows what word I am about to type.

Why then, do I choose the worldly thought? Why do I choose the worldly attitude? Why do I selfishly care for myself before others? You know...Kris and I were visiting with a homeless man named Tim last Thursday. We talked with him for about a half hour. Tim has lived all over the country, has worked numerous trades, has slept in about every state in the country. He told us of how he is a follower of Christ, and that his home is in heaven. He told us stories of how he has never owned a car and never will. He shared with us the joys of living in Boulder because it is the most beautiful city in America (he may be right!). He shared stories of hiking Bear Mountain and Sugarloaf Canyon. He shared how his life is so simple and how he always has what he needs to survive. I envy Tim in a way. Not because I want his life, but more because I want his mindset on life. He lives for Jesus with minimal worries and enjoys what God has given him. He isn't concerned with mortgages, car payments, being on time for work, paying off the credit card, etc. He wakes up and says, "where shall I hike today?" Amazing. I chose the life of family and accept the responsibilities that comes with it. But, in some ways, I am learning to live like Tim. To shed my possessions and worries for simplicity and joy in sharing God's truth with those who need him. It only makes sense...Jesus did the same thing.

--Peter

My Bloggin' Wife

Hey, my wife is now a blogger, although she is such a rebel and went with Xanga...check out her blog by clicking on "Jan's Blog" link to the right.

--Peter

High Thoughts

I was challenged this weekend with my thoughts of Jesus while worshipping. I read from my devotional the following..."Our Lord would have all His people rich in high and happy thoughts concerning His blessed person. Jesus is not content that His brethren should think poorly of Him; it is His pleasure that His people should be delighted with His beauty. We are not to regard Him as a bare necessity, like bread and water, but as a luxurious delicacy, as a rare and ravishing delight. To this end He has revealed Himself as the "pearl of great price" in its peerless beauty, as the "bundle of myrrh" in its refreshing fragrance, as the "rose of Sharon" in its lasting perfume, as the "lily" in its spotless purity."

How often I find myself guilty of only regarding Jesus as a need in my life, and not regarding him as the highest of highs, the Exalted One, the Risen Savior seated at the right hand of God the Father in heaven. I was encouraged by the difference in my worship last night with Emmaus Road as Brandon and I led the group in songs. Thinking upon Jesus this way changes how we sing, how we feel, how we are amazed at Christ's character. It helped me bring the reality of who Jesus is into my effort to lead corporate worship.

As another note of encouragement...last night we had some folks come from a house church in Superior to our ER gathering. The group included some pre-teen girls who simply blew me away with their wisdom and inquiring atttitude. Molly, one of the girls asked Josh (our co-pastor) during the kids challenge, "So, what makes God special to us?" WOW! I was blown away at her transparency and honest interest in God. I've never once met an adult with the courage to ask that question in a group worship time. Then, Kate, another young lady, answered a question posed by Kris (our pastor) regarding people and their stronghold on possessions, "When people start to get things, they start needing to have something better and better...they work to earn possessions and then they are never satisfied with what they get and want more." This came from a girl that couldn't have been a day over 12. I only wish I could've expressed myself with that kind of wisdom at her age! I see God working in so many ways in my life. He even teaches me and shapes me through young children. So encouraging...

So, what's the point of all this? It's simple...when my thoughts of Christ are high and lofty, I am brought closer to him. When I am brought closer to him, I think upon things that matter, not myself. When I am not thinking about myself, I am ready and able to be taught. When I am ready to be taught, God teaches me so much about who he is and his desires (Isa 55:8). Those lessons don't just come from my pastor, my readings or my adult friends. Those lessons show up in my life through every circumstance, even in a conversation with a child.

Look for God today. Look at him the way he should be looked upon. Then, look for him in your everyday life. Look for Jesus in the surrounding beauty. Look for him in the morning sunrise. Look for him in your co-workers. Look for him in your daily provision (yes, that sandwich came from God). Look for him in the eyes of a homeless man needing a conversation. Look for him everywhere. Don't see him? Crack open the Word, study his truth, pray for wisdom, then get up tomorrow and try again. I doubt you will struggle to find him. In fact, I know you won't...

--Peter

Pic: Devil's Thumb - Boulder, CO

Boo!

Ahh, once again it's cold and it's trick-or-treat time...

The kids started the evening at Pearl Street in Boulder with some friends...

Then on to Rock Creek...

And you never know what you'll find...

Maybe a nice jack-o-lantern...

Or a spooky one...

Or three...

The kids had fun...

Emmaus Road

So, I thought I'd drop an update on the blog for Emmaus Road. As many of you know, ER is the church we are involved with as launch team members. Back in February, the Tighe's uprooted from Nebraska and made the transition to the Front Range of Colorado. We have been Boulder County residents ever since and are excited to be a part of the ER ministry.

God has been working on us personally in many ways. Jan and I have been overwhelmed with all that God is teaching us and how he is shaping us to be more like him each and every week we are here. We have been burdened with the lesson over and over that God desires us to live holy, set apart and to live simply. He has been teaching us all over again what faith is all about and continues to change our hearts from the pursuit of our own interests to his interests. He has also been stripping away our possessions so that we are free to live for him and without the heaviness of debt.

Our children, Jonatha (5) and Aidan (4) have been so resilient and gracious in the move. I have been amazed at how they both have pushed through some tough emotional times leaving their friends and familiarity in Nebraska. Both have been willing to make sacrifices with us in order to live here, which is certainly more expensive. And, I have enjoyed watching our kids build new friendships with the other families involved at Emmaus, as well as with kids in the neighborhood. Time has been a great helper, as well, in allowing them to move forward and feel rooted in Colorado.

We praise God for:
The Cheeks, Luses, Brinkers, Kautzs, Deans (all launch team members)
Brian Collins and Bridgette Sorget (our very close friends and neighbors)
Patrick Applebee, Zach Ryburn (close friends and co-workers)
Many, many acquaintances we have made through doing life in our neighborhood
Our jobs and God's provision of income
Our health and peace

We pray for:
Those needing Christ who are in our lives
Wisdom to live simply and without personal wants
Continued success in establishing real relationships with people and growing the kingdom

And, of course, we are so thankful for your prayer support for our ministry...keep it up!

Peter

Habakkuk 3:18-19 "Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights."

Pics: Stolen from my buddy Josh Luse (Boulder, CO)

Dream Job

When you sit in a cube for 8 hours a day, Monday-Friday, you dream of doing some physical labor. It's only natural. I not only dream of doing something physical, I dream of being outdoors in the snow, typically with a snowboard strapped to my feet. So, it only figures I would love working at a ski resort. I told Kris Cheek just last Wednesday that next season I would probably try to work at a resort for the winter on weekends, mostly so I could get a free pass. Well on Friday I learned Eldora Ski Resort was doing a job fair, so I checked things out.

And since I can't earn a living doing my dream job, I decided to do it part-time. On Saturday, I was offered the job. I will be scanning tickets/passes at the lifts. I will have a great opportunity to meet people from all over the world and work primarily with local Boulder County residents. And I imagine it'll be the sweetest $8/hr job I'll ever have!

Go to www.eldora.com for details on the mountain.

I'm dreaming...

22"...that's right. 22" of blessing from God last night alone at Loveland Pass. Almost as if he is saying, "Peter, you don't feel so good today. Call in sick and go snowboarding. It's healthy, beneficial therapy for life."

Okay, so God isn't saying that. But, I can wish can't I?

Balance

Balance...in Boulder this word may mean at peace with oneself or to find yourself in balance with the earth. Scripturally, I think it means denying myself so that my focus is on returning my resources back to the Creator who gave in the first place.

"The ocean is a great receiver, but it is also a generous distributor. What the rivers bring, it returns to the earth in the form of clouds and rain. The man who takes everything but makes no return is out of joint with the universe."
(Spurgeon)

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me.
(Luke 9:23)

Just as the ocean receives, it returns. It's dividends are life sustaining resources, probably too many to document. Yet, how often do I receive and fail to yield returns honoring to God...oh too often.

May today be a day of returning, bringing balance. May today be a day where I think not of myself, but others. May today remind me that I do not live for myself. God gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we may find eternal life. He only asks that we deny ourselves in our daily living so others may see that truth. I'd say it's a fair exchange!

Peter

Superman

Sometimes I think myself to be Superman. I think I have the ability to change a heart spiritually or bring passion into another's soul. Quite the opposite is true. When thinking I am Superman, I am actually more Jack Black. Maybe a little confident, but mostly pretty dorky and clutsy.

I find there is only one person who can move a soul to faith, or bring desire to one's heart for God...that would be God himself. The work of the Spirit is a mysterious thing. Many, many times I have tried to lead my daughter into spiritual conversations. Many, many times she has changed the subject on me mid-sentence. I saw the work of the Spirit before my very eyes last night when my daughter initiated the conversation blogged previously below.

Acts 2:17 " 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.' "

The same Spirit that brought upon the life changing events in Acts is the same Spirit at work today. God has promised his Holy Spirit to those who believe and has sealed them for eternity (Ephesians 4:30). Isn't it comforting to know God is at work in our hearts? Isn't it comforting to know he does the mighty work in saving souls? Our responsibility as believers is to deliver the message, then allow God to do the spiritual changing work.

Oh...and the sad thing is, I wouldn't even look this good in that outfit!

Peter

Day of Salvation

Jan and I have been praying for Jonatha and Aidan for quite some time to begin to understand for themselves what it means to know God personally. We have always desired that their faith would be their own and not their parent's faith.

Tonight Jonatha expressed to me that she didn't want anything for Christmas. I asked her why and she said "I just want God's Spirit for Christmas...nothing else." I asked her if she understood how she can have God's Spirit and she said, "If I believe in Jesus."

So we discussed what it means to believe that Jesus' death on the cross was payment for our sin and that, if we choose not to believe, we will spend eternity without him. We have had this talk many times before, but something was different tonight. She truly seemed to understand and want to do something about it. We decided to pray about it and nail it down for her and make sure that she has made this decision.

After praying to God that she believes, she continued praying, "God, I guess I have two daddies because you are always with me." And I listened as she prayed and told God she believes in him and loves him.

As a parent, these words are sweet to my soul. It brings me great joy to hear that my daughter understands the Gospel and she has accepted what Jesus has done for her. Now I can take comfort in knowing she will be with us in heaven.

Praise God!

Luke 18:16 "But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

Constant Cleansing

HE . . . BEGAN TO WASH THE DISCIPLES' FEET. ”John 13:5

The Lord Jesus loves His people so much that every day He is still doing for them much that is analogous to washing their soiled feet. Their poorest actions He accepts; their deepest sorrow He feels; their slenderest wish He hears; and their every transgression He forgives. He is still their servant as well as their Friend and Master. He not only performs majestic deeds for them, when in all His priestly garb and function He stands up to plead for them, but He also humbly, patiently goes among His people with the basin and the towel.

I was reading my Truth for Life devotional and realized just how much of a reality this is in my personal life. The older my children get, the more I begin to see my sinfulness in them. It's not a slam on my kids, it's a gut check for me. When my son holds his fist in defiance at me after being corrected, or when my daughter responds with hurtful statements because she feels I have been unfair, I am dreadfully reminded they are just a reflection of my behavior toward my heavenly Father.

Yet, in his infinite grace, he forgives me. Again, then again, then again. If you think for an instance that you make it through even one day without sin, you are truly a fool. For even the slightest thought that is not completely in step with Jesus himself is a sinful act. If the momentary worldly desire creeps into your mind for just a split second, you fall short of God's standard. So, what do we do with this? We go to the One who promises to wash us. He is prepared to cleanse us because he loves us so much. All the more, he does this for us day in and day out. And more than just forgiving us, he is ready and eager to provide for us all that we need. He is a generous God who promises to take care of us...to give us the food we need to eat, to give us the strength we need to overcome trial and hardship, to reveal his glorious self in amazing us with his sudden provision. And I could go on...

Pretty humbling to consider just how desperate I really am for God when I think upon my selfishness and sinfulness. And pretty humbling to consider his response of grace.

--Peter

Infinite Compassion

God Feels Your Pain By Dr. James MacDonald

“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.” Psalm 103:13

Compassion is the capacity to feel what another person is feeling. It’s meaning it when you say, “My heart is there with you, man. I know what you’re going through.” Do you know someone who is hurting right now? Do you have a friend or family member who’s in a painful circumstance? Maybe their marriage is in trouble, or they’ve just lost something important-like their job or their health or their hope. Are you thinking of someone? You really feel for them.
But as much as we’d like it to be more, our compassion capacity is pretty limited. Wouldn’t you agree? There comes a point when we admit that we’re kind of maxed out with our own stuff. But listen, God’s compassion is unlimited ; it’s infinite. His compassion is His commitment to us.

Psalm 69:16, “O Lord, Your lovingkindness is good, and great is Your compassion. ”

Psalm 103:4, “He redeems your life from the pit, and He crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion. ”

Compassion is like a banner God writes over your life. He not only sees your situation, He not only understands it, He feels it. If you’re hurting today, perplexed or discouraged, God doesn’t just see you; He doesn’t just know about your hurt; He feels it. When circumstances are such that you don’t know what will happen up ahead, God wants you to know that you can rely on Him. He’s a rock that you can stand on. Why does He show me such great compassion? . . . Because He loves you. When God describes Himself as compassionate, He links it with His lovingkindness. Listen to Psalm 103:14: “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust . . . But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him.”

Today, tell someone who could use some good news of God’s great compassion about His great love for them. This good word will strengthen you both.

Straight Paths

Ah, more of the simplicity theme hitting home for me this month. Here is a devotion taken from the Upper Room. I like it's simple message...Peter

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

WHEN my husband and I visited Arches National Monument in Utah, we ventured onto a trail to seek a better view of a sandstone arch towering in the distance. The desert sand path quickly disappeared as we walked across a plain of huge granite rocks. There were only an occasional cactus, the rocks, and us.

Some ranger had laid a trail of rock piles to mark the way. Each small tower of three rocks had a big metal stake driven through it. I wondered why the trailblazer had gone to so much effort. The markers didn't seem necessary. With each step, we drew nearer to the arch.
When we began the trek back, we had a sudden shock. We could not see the main trail, the parking lot, or a single person. Feeling mounting anxiety, I searched for one of those markers. At last, I saw one. We progressed slowly, finding the markers one by one. Not until the last 10 yards were we able to see the main road.

Likewise, at times in our daily living we may think we can see the way to our destinations. We plunge forward, only to discover too late that it is no longer clear which way to go. We may feel confused or overwhelmed. Our God, however, knows the best route and guides us through the Bible, sermons, or a wise counselor's words. God is our trustworthy trailblazer.

I hike quite a bit here in CO. One thing I like about hiking is the trail reveals new beauty each and every time. You can hike the same path 100 times and find something new each time. It may not be a huge discovery, rather something small or insignificant. But, it's a new revelation each trip. Another thing about hiking is the change in the trail on the descent. Now, the trail is almost not recognizable. In unmarked hiking, this is not a nice surprise. It generates anxiety in our bodies. I did some unmarked hiking with Jonatha and Aidan a couple of months ago and experienced this first-hand. The only saving feture was the nearby creek. We weren't even too far from a road, and I still felt anxious and lost almost.

God never operates that way. He marks our paths. He reveals Himself in our lostness. He guides us with His loving hand of grace. We need not fear the hike, nor should we attempt to mark it with our own resources. I am challenged constantly to allow God to mark my steps and always lead me home. Take joy today knowing that whatever path you're taking, God has marked your way home and is eager for you to return. If you're on His path, take joy knowing you are in your Father's lead.

--Peter

Picture - never Summer Range, Rocky Mt. Nat'l Park (source: Around Colorado)

Snow Day

View from my office...pure torture. It's not like I haven't been jonesin' for some pow, and I gotta look at this all day while at my desk, knowing I can't strap up and burn a few runs down the pass. Of course, it could be much worse - I could be staring at Lincoln County courthouse knowing the mountains are 4 hours away like last winter. Living here has its perks.

God's creation is a beautiful thing. I was listening to Matt Redman's "Lead us Up the Mountain" this morning during my commute to work. It's a spontaneous worship piece from his album Face Down. It says, "Lead us up the mountain, lead us to the place Your glory dwells, God." That's it...sung over and over and over again until you can't help but worship. The Rockies outside my door everyday remind me that God's glory is so much bigger. God's glory cannot be contained when on display in his creation. We cannot assign God a dwelling place so small as these mountains, yet he dwells in our hearts. He chose to inhabit those of us who believe in Him. He chose to live among us, as one of us. You would think this decision would remove his glory. Just the opposite.

I hope today you find a moment to find God's glory in your life. It may be in a quiet moment reading his Word. Or a celebratory time of singing at your local church service. Maybe an adventurous trek across some rugged terrain. Whatever it may be, sing in your heart, "Lead us up the mountain, lead us to the place your glory dwells, God."

Doing Life Means Getting Dirty

At Emmaus Road, our home church body, we often speak of "doing life" together. That simply means living out our faith with those around us, or engaging our culture. This concept is simple in philosophy, yet very difficult practically. Why? Because doing life with people means getting dirty. It means extending our love for people beyond the things we love about them. It means loving those who aren't very lovable. It means making ourselves vulnerable emotionally and being transparent with each other. Going even deeper, it means doing life with those who even hurt us.

The following is a great, thought-provoking article which can also be found at www.emmausroadonline.org.

Enjoy - Peter

Doing Life Together
By Dr. James MacDonald

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3
We have a commitment within our church family to "do life together." It's now an 18-year experiment which asks, "Is there a group of people who will love one another no matter what and keep on going together for God?" That's the vision God has given to us-to love, forbear with, and forgive each other, growing together in Christ year after year. As you would expect, it takes a lot of sweat and tears.
Ephesians 4:2-3 hits the bull's-eye of how this commitment works. "Walk . . . with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Eager to maintain means I am willing to work hard at unity-no matter what it costs me. This kind of sacrifice isn't about money or time, it drills down to the core of who you are. The strength behind this pledge is in the sacrifice of yourself.
Your opinions, your entitlements, your injured feelings-these are what you give up for the sake of unity. This is how far you will go to "do life" with your brother and sister in Christ. Always caring, always trying to work it out, always helping. Why, because you like the person? Not always. You do it because you want to honor God.
This concept of sacrificing yourself for the good of your brother was so foreign to the Greek and Roman culture at the time Ephesians was written that Paul had to coin a new word to describe it. He called this attitude humility-the choice to carry a weight rather than inflict a wrong. You may say, "But his opinion is wrong!" Perhaps. But if it's not a doctrinal issue or in conflict with what the Bible clearly teaches, swallow your argument and agree to disagree. What clearer evidence could there be that God is at work in you?
But what if someone disappoints you again after years of patience and love? You may say in frustration, "Do I still have to put up with this?" The answer is, "Yes, you do." God is watching how we treat each other and honors every time we roll up our sleeves to do the hard thing.
That's what we've signed up for in our church body. Though it's easier to tap dance out of relationships as soon as our weaknesses begin to show, we've decided to be followers of Christ who love each other anyway. We don't always get it right, but we're working hard at unity. Why? Because our eyes are on Christ and we want the One who humbled Himself and became obedient unto death to get the greater glory.

Happier With Less

The simple life. God has been teaching me lately to live simply. I blogged recently about this and the lesson continues. I sense God saying, "I'm stripping away the fat in your life, Peter." Why? Because it's not needed. Check out some devotional thoughts from Spurgeon today...

"The best position for a Christian is living wholly and directly on God's grace-remaining where he stood at first-"having nothing, yet possessing everything."2 Let us never for a moment think that our standing is in our sanctification, our mortification, our graces, or our feelings. But be sure of this, that because Christ offered a full atonement, therefore we are saved; for we are complete in Him. Having nothing of our own to trust in, but resting upon the merits of Jesus, His passion and holy life provide us with the only sure ground of confidence. Beloved, when we are brought to a thirsty condition, we are sure to turn eagerly to the fountain of life.

I imagine I am not the only person guilty of thinking that my actions somehow create my peace. I imagine I'm not the only one who compares himself with others. I imagine I'm not the only one thinking my possessions create a sense of security. So, what do I do with all this? I rest on the promise from God that, despite having nothing, I possess everything. I recently lost a very large investment...my house. I chose to do what I believe would honor God above what I believed would benefit me. It wasn't easy. It took some time for me to accept, then even rejoice, in the loss. But now I see the blessing and truly do rejoice. You see, our possessions are not owned by us. They are God's. On a practical point, they own us, you know. When we borrow to own, we really do not own at all. Think about it.

Well, I am amazed at God's grace on me. How often I have chosen the worldly over the spiritual. It must end. I admit my fault in this area and confess I still have a ways to go. But God is good. He is faithful. He is a loving and gentle Father. I rejoice in Him today. I hope you do, as well.

Peter

My Janny

This year has truly been the best year of our marriage in my opinion. I have never felt so close to my wife, and I have seen God teach me so much through her and our relationship. The older I get, the more simple my walk with the Lord and my wife becomes. Life to me isn't about goals, deadlines, achievements...it's about faith, hope and love. I derive no fulfillment in reaching goals, achieving a certain salary, making supervisor, buying a dream home, or attaining social status. I am interested in loving God, loving my family and loving my friends to the point that those around me can't help but be drawn to Jesus. Nothing else in life matters. Our posessions will surely perish one day - they will not follow us to eternity. Our jobs are never secure. Our homes are made with stick and mortar. Our wealth is a gift provision from God and he can withhold it anytime he chooses. Nothing we own is really ours, and nothing we own is eternal.

I look at this picture and I see a gift given to me. I see a blessing I cannot assign words. I hope today you will find time to think upon the eternal blessings God has given you. He has richly blessed us...Ephesians 1:3-10.

Pic: Loveland Pass 12,000 ft.

Family Visit

Mom dropped in for a 4 day visit from Seattle this past week. It was so nice to see her as it's been close to 2 years. We really enjoyed having her here and the kids were pretty bummed when she left. We took a trip up to Dillon/Silverthorn for some foliage viewing and some fun at the lake. These pics were taken at the north end of Lake Dillon Marina. You can see Keystone ski resort in the background.

Having time with my parents is special for us, as both sets of parents live on the west coast. Aidan and I are taking a boys weekend and heading for San Diego next month to see my Dad. These times don't come frequently enough and we cherish them greatly.

Boulder Fall Festival

Fall festival this weekend down on Pearl Street. It was surprisingly warm in the 80's. Kids rode some rides and we walked around with my mom visiting. Jonatha also bungee'd her way for about 15 minutes. The bungee springs you 20 ft up in the air and then down to a trampoline. In other words, Jonatha was in heaven...

Family Pics

Some hiking adventures as of late...Jonatha and Aidan found their coats handy while hiking at Golden Gate Canyon in 40 degrees and windy conditions. Jan, Aidan and I went for an easy hike at Marshall Mesa Trailhead last week. We had excellent views of Boulder below us and Devil's Thumb. The hike takes you over old coal mines that still burn to this today underground.

Having these resources within just minutes of our house is a real blessing. The exercise, views and surrounding terrain makes for an enjoyable experience and creates some great memories for our family.

Simple Truth

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge." "All those who practice it have a good understanding." (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 111:10)

Here in Boulder County, I have noticed the reality of the danger in thinking that philosophical reasoning will enhance truth. Spurgeon writes, "Man's intellect seeks for peace and by nature seeks it apart from the Lord Jesus Christ. Men of education are apt, even when converted, to look upon the simplicities of the cross of Christ with too little reverence and love." Demographics in Boulder reveal that over 36% of residents here have undergraduate degrees (U.S. avg 15%) and 30% have Master's or Doctorates degrees (U.S. avg 8%). The trend here is to reason out your faith through worldly viewpoints. However, I notice a different story in the Scriptures..."But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong" (1 Corinthians 1:27). Interestingly enough, such words were spoken to a similar culture in Corinth as we see in Boulder.

I am guilty too often of falling in this trap of reasoning. I begin to rationalize my faith and my prayers. I justify my sin and my failures. The simple truth rests with the cross...Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice by suffering the greatest of sufferings so we may enjoy eternity with Him. He did it so we wouldn't have to. The choice is simple...believe in what he did and be saved (Romans 10:10-13).

I hope today you have already made this decision. Your simple faith will yield great wisdom. Not a worldly wisdom, but wisdom that brings eternal values. Enjoy your day in the Lord and rest in his perfect knowledge.

-- Peter

Picture: Mt. Evans (taken on hike this July)

Heartbeat of Prayer

"Even when prayer is not speedy, the blessings grow all the richer on account of the delay" C. H. Spurgeon...

Timeliness...the timeliness of God's working is perfect whether we understand it or not. For several months I have been learning the lesson that God works on his timeframe and no one else's. He does not answer to us, we answer to him. We may plead, beg, request, but without the heartbeat of trust in his will, we waste our time (and his). God revealed a very special answer to prayer to us today. It didn't come in the timeframe I expected nor wanted. However, it came in his perfect timing. God revealed he has been protecting us with his arms of love all year, all the while we were thinking he was not answering prayer. How much sweeter it is for us when we see the working of God in our lives to perfect his own purposes for us, rather than pleading our case for our will.

Spurgeon also states, "The gift came from heaven; let it go to heaven. Prayer brought it, gratitude sang over it-let devotion consecrate it." I think it's fitting to see prayer this way...that God answered according to his will and it has been perfected in us. I think we owe it to God to give credit where credit is due. His answers are heaven sent, prayer perfected, and, as a result, God is glorified.

I hope our lessons learned are an encouragement to you today if you are struggling with prayer and God's answers to them. He is always listening and always knows what is best for us. Praise Him!

-- Peter

Faith...

What does it mean to have faith? Hebrews 11:1 tells us, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." What are we hoping for? As a believer, I am hoping for eternity in heaven, but not 'hope' in the earthly sense. I am not uncertain, rather, am very certain I will spend eternity in heaven with Jesus. My 'hope' is an eternal hope, one that is confident, certain. In all this, I am certain of what I have yet to see. I haven't seen Jesus in person, nor touched him, nor seen heaven. Yet, I know I will see both Jesus and heaven when my time here ends.

Regarding my earthly faith lessons, I am reminded today from my devotional that "Faith is triumphant in trial. When reason has her feet fastened in the stocks of the inner prison, faith makes the dungeon walls ring with her happy notes as she cries, 'I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O LORD, I will make music' (Psalm 101:1). Faith pulls the dark mask from the face of trouble and discovers the angel beneath."

So, you see faith has eternal values and earthly values. It's power rests within those who have placed their trust in the Living Savior who suffered the cross and all its shame. I am humbled at this thought. The sacrifice Jesus made for all mankind is available to all mankind. The only thing preventing it from becoming reality is faith. Each of us must make that decision.

I am thankful I have made mine...Peter

Sid's B-Day Party

Jonatha hangin' with her girls at Sidney's birthday party. Sidney (far right) turned 7 last week. Brandon, Michelle, Brooklyn, Sidney and Zach live in Lafayette, also in Boulder County and are a part of our launch team at Emmaus Road.

Compelled

This little piece of an article by Ben Paisley, along with a great conversation I had with my pastor today further convinced me of Jesus' heart for the lost...read on...Peter

There is something else to consider as we look for the Levites' role in evangelism: In 1 Chronicles 25: 1 we find that "David, together with the commanders of the army, set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman and Jeduthun for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals." These were Musicians and Singers who were to prophesy? Before we jump to the conclusion that this was some mysterious, future-telling skill set to music, let's consider a couple of basic passages. In understanding prophecy we should first note that the word simply means "to speak a divinely inspired message". Prophecy is simply communicating the heart and will of God to people. Revelation 19:10 says it this way, "the spirit of prophesy is the testimony of Jesus". In other words, the essence of prophecy is exploding the reality of Jesus into the world. Sure, there is future vision and mystical insights to prophetic communication, but the foundation of the work is simply making God clear. There is no better place to see this than in 1 Corinthians 14. After we are all encouraged to pray for the gift of prophecy we are told in verse 3 that "everyone who prophesies speaks to men". I had always assumed that this prophetic gift was for believers--but hold on--after a chapter of illustration Paul makes it very clear for us in verses 24 and 25. "But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!" Is this not evangelism?! Is prophecy not for unbelievers?! If we prophesy the lost will see God clearly! To the point, some of the Musicians and Singers were set apart for the work of prophesying: making God known to believers and unbelievers!

Our Church Family

L to R: Janelle, Jan, Jonatha, Aidan, and Peter, Sidney, Brandon, Michelle, Zach, Tara, Josiah, Jeff, Asher, Josh, Julie, Brooklyn, Kris, Taylor, Jocelyn, and Natalie.

Breakfast Man

Aidan feeling generous this morning by making breakfast for the family while we were getting ready for the day...he didn't even make a mess!

1st Bus Ride

Jonatha had her first bus ride to school today...my kids are growing up!

"As Iron Sharpens Iron"

I posted this picture recently and decided to post it again. Last night I was reminded how sweet it is to fellowship with my brothers. The men met last night at Josh's apartment and spent time in prayer and study of God's Word until 11:00pm. Last week we met at my apartment and spent nearly two hours straight praying together. On neither occasion did anyone complain at the time spent in prayer or the late hour of study.

Last night, we all spent some time in confession together and sharing our concerns and God was in our midst! I cried tears of joy last night as I participated in the prayer time, meditating on God's Word and being reminded that I could not ask for a better group of men to serve with in ministry. And wouldn't you know it? God revealed once again he is in the middle of the details of our lives when Kris was led to read Job 38 during our prayer time. I just happened to read those very verses a few hours before (see blog below). I asked Kris if he had read the same devotional and he said no, he just felt led to read those verses. The Spirit does, indeed, lead us when we don't know how to pray (Romans 8:26).

If you do not have a smaller group of people you meet with regularly for fellowship and accountability, find one now. My life has been enriched greatly this year through this group of men, and I am thankful for what God has been doing in my life through them. Praise God!

Who am I?

Who am I to question why certain events occur in my life? God's providence is his, not mine...yet I often want in on the knowledge of why he does what he does. I am reminded today it's simply not my place. Just when I feel I am in a valley, I find an abyss. Yet, I am comforted because I know my earthly woes do not hold a candle to Jesus' suffering for me. What blessing we have when faced with trials and hardship. It is through them that we are brought into an intimate fellowship with our Savior! Peter

From Truth for Life...

HAVE YOU ENTERED INTO THE SPRINGS OF THE SEA? Job 38:16 Some things in nature remain a mystery even to the most intelligent and enterprising investigators. Human knowledge has boundaries beyond which it cannot pass. Universal knowledge is for God alone. If this is true in the things that are seen and temporal, I can be certain that it is even more so in spiritual and eternal matters. Why, then, have I been torturing my brain with speculations about divine sovereignty and human responsibility? These deep and dark truths I am no more able to comprehend than to discover the source from which the ocean draws her watery supplies. Why am I so curious to know the reason for my Lord's providences, the motive of His actions, the design of His visitations? Will I ever be able to clasp the sun in my fist or hold the universe in my palm? Yet these are as a drop in a bucket compared with the Lord my God. Do not let me strive to understand the infinite, but spend my strength in love. What I cannot gain by intellect I can possess by affection, and that should be enough for me. I cannot penetrate the heart of the sea, but I can enjoy the healthy breezes that sweep across it, and I can sail over its blue waves with propitious winds. If I could enter the springs of the sea, the feat would serve no useful purpose either to myself or to others; it would not save the sinking ship or restore the drowned sailor to his weeping wife and children. Neither would my solving deep mysteries avail me a single whit. The simplest act of obedience to Him is better than the profoundest knowledge. My Lord, I leave the infinite to You and ask You to put far from me a love for the tree of knowledge that would keep me from the tree of life.

Labor Day

Trip to NE this Labor Day weekend...we enjoyed fellowship with the Jacksons, Joedemans and Udds. Lots of 4-wheelin', barrel walkin', garden pickin', country worshippin' and, as always, good eatin'. Trip was smooth and we returned home to CO at 1 am Monday morning.

Rainbow Lakes

Weekend hike at Rainbow Lakes, about an hour NW of Boulder with our friends, the Collins family. Good times, good food, good company. Hope to do it again soon...Peter

Future Glory

Sometimes I happen upon the Word in my routine, not really expecting much, which is sad...I should always expect much from the Word. Today I began reading the Word, partially distracted, certainly unprepared. I read through Isaiah 54 after reading my daily devotional from Truth For Life. However, the last few verses caught my attention, and I decided to read it again...and then again. Sometimes, I just need a little kick in the butt by a verse that grabs my thoughts. Today it was verse 14 "In righteousness you will be established: Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to fear. Terror will be far removed; it will not come near you."

If I choose it, I can allow my circumstances to keep me off-balance as opposed to established, my fears to be near as opposed to far removed. I can allow the things of this world to keep me from fully being satisfied in Jesus, the temptations of life to lead me astray, the desires of my heart to rule my judgment. However, God wants the things of this world to be the last desires of my heart and the temptations of this world to be far removed from my mind. God will comfort me with his presence and will protect me. His promises to the faithful in the Old Testament ring true for us today...If we are established, tyranny will be far from us, and we will have nothing to fear. Terror will be removed, it will not come near us. I am not talking about present trials or troubles. I am speaking to what is ultimately promised. And, because what is ultimately promised, I can rest in Jesus' arms. I can rest in peace, knowing God is with me. I can even rejoice and sing praises because of his goodness, grace, mercy and love despite present trials or troubles. Isn't he deserving of our praise? Does he not require it of us? Our logical response to God should be a sacrifical offering of our bodies (Romans 12:1) which is a spiritual act of worship.

I am challenged with these thoughts and hope you are encouraged by them. Rest and dwell with Jesus today. Stop your routine and pause with him. Turn the t.v. and your cell phone off and listen. Take a break from email and read something of eternal value. Whatever you "happen upon" just may soften your heart and change you for better. Enjoy the Lord today...Peter

Picture: Rainbow Lakes Creek, Rainbow Lakes, CO

First Day of Kindergarten

Every one has a "first day"
When they feel sad and all alone,
It can be so scary
When you're out on your own.
And I know that a "first day"
can be full of doubts and fears,
But they're full of new beginnings.
Take my hankie, dry your tears.

You'll find lots of things to do
and you'll probably make new friends.
I promise we'll be together
when the school day ends.

Here comes the teacher
blow your nose and be brave.
Come on now and wipe your eyes,
this is no way to behave.

Well good morning teacher.
We really must beg your pardon.
No, MOMMY doesn't always act this way,
But it's my first day of ...KINDERGARTEN!
-Author Unknown

First Day of school

We're so proud! Jonatha did great and just took off to the monkey bars after introducing me to her teacher, Ms. Sutton. The school is very nice and Jonatha has already made some friends. We also had the chance to meet another parent with children our age who just moved here from Minnesota and live in the same complex as we do. Very cool.