Over the Christmas weekend, we experienced a painful loss in the children's ministry. Floyd Hodges, aka "Prof. Gadget", died of complications from something similar to pneumonia. Floyd's wife died suddenly from cancer back in July, and Floyd became ill not long after that, and never recovered. I've known Floyd ever since I came to Hebron, and he has served as our "Time Machine" professor, a Sunday School teacher, bus driver, VBS leader, etc. He was a long-standing, loved leader in our children's ministry, and a good personal friend. What is also sad about his passing is that his and Cindy's daughter has lost both parents, and within 6 months. My heart breaks, not only for losing a friend, but for a young girl who has lost both parents. That is most sad to me.
Rob

I was thinking today about the tremendous, life-changing experience the birth of Christ was to His earthly dad, Joseph. Here he is, a simple construction worker in Nazareth, getting ready for his upcoming marriage to his bride-to-be, Mary. Nothing extraordinary about him- just a regular, working class guy. Then he finds out his fiancé is pregnant, obviously NOT by him! I can’t imagine the horror, shock, anger, fear, and sorrow he must have felt. But being a good guy, he was just planning to break everything off quietly, try to pick up the pieces and get on with his life- until the night an angel came to him, with some incredible news…
I found that, in the book of Matthew, an angel spoke to Joseph a total of 4 times, from the first revelation that Mary was carrying the Messiah, to the final word that it was safe to go back home from Egypt. No matter what his circumstances looked like, no matter what anyone might have thought, no matter how crazy it all seemed- Joseph trusted and followed God, and reaped the blessing of helping raise up God in human skin.

Imagine- those rough, calloused hands cradling Divinity; those worn-down fingernails tickling holy infant toes and nose; those thick arms playfully wrestling with the toddler God; stopping the cart, because his 10-year old son, who also happens to be the Lord of all the universe, wants to ride to the supply store with him. It must have been amazing almost every day to think that, “this cute little kid running around my house is the Lord God Almighty in human skin. And I’m teaching Him to fish and play ball and swing a hammer without smashing His fingers.” Wow.

We don’t hear anymore about Joseph after Jesus turned 12. All we know about him we find in the first few chapters of Matthew and Luke. But I know one thing- he was a man blessed by God, no doubt. And I look forward to meeting him someday, and hearing his stories about being “dad” to the Son of God. I’m sure he has some incredible stories to tell…
Rob

I've been watching a Christmas special on tv with the Brookyn Tabernacle Choir. This choir has been raising praise to Christ for over 30 years, and itself is an amazing story. It is made up of people from all walks of life- executives and janitors, business owners and construction workers, waitresses and immigrants, "red & yellow, black & white". There are also many former drug addicts, prostitutes, and criminals- all changed by Jesus Christ, and living for Him. As I see the incredible diversity of this choir, and the whole church they represent, I am reminded of what the Bible says about the Kingdom of God- "from every tribe and language and people and nation." Rev.5:9
Christ came into this world to show us the Father's love, and bring us back to Him. And when He comes back, eternity will be filled with the praises of those who have "loved His appearing." If viewing that choir is any hint, it will be nothing short of fantastic!
Rob

I took my family to see the new film, "The Nativity Story" Sunday night. What a fantastic movie! It accurately and vividly portrays the birth of Jesus accounts of both Matthew and Luke, making the pages come alive on the screen. I loved it- during parts of the film I was so caught up in the story I choked up as "the greatest story ever told" came to life in front of my eyes. So often, we think of the birth of our Savior only in terms of our porcelin nativity scenes and "baby Jesus" pictures & ornaments. This film puts the human faces on the most beloved birth in history, telling their story in such an amazing way. This story is our story, the reason for our faith and hope. This is a must-see for Christmas, for the whole family.
Rob

Thanksgiving this past week was a special time for us. We spent Wednesday down in Fayette with Lisa's side of the family, then hosted Thanksgiving day at our house. Lisa's parents came back up for it, as did my mom & dad, and several family friends, including our own Mr. Mitch from RockiTown. We had a full house, with TONS of food! We ate, ate, & ate, then watched some football (naturally), before some folks had to head for home. Later on, several of us loaded up and went to Dave & Busters, blowing some $ on video games and stuff. In all, we had a lively, food-filled, great time with family & friends. I am so thankful to my Father for His many, many gifts in my life, especially for the people that mean so much to me. Possessions & things come and go in our lives, but the relationships are what stand the test of time, especially when they are founded in Jesus Christ- that means we will have each other forever. And for that, I am most thankful.
Rob

I spent the day today raking and blowing leaves. We have lots of trees on our property, a mix of pine and various hardwoods. Across the fall, the hardwoods display brilliant colors of every variety. Its spectacular! Yet ultimately, these colors fade and fall- leaving wrinkled, rotting piles all around. So after the beautiful colors comes the long cleanup- blowing, raking, piling, burning. Its kind of depressing, actually- the colors are gone, and there's nothing anyone can do about it. And yet I know there are things that will never fade- God's Word, His love, His presence, His gifts in my life. And I know the things to come will never fade, fall, or decay. I know my Heavenly Father will fill and fulfill all our heart's desires and longings in His time, in His way.
Winter's coming, but it won't last, either. So I'll "rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him."
Rob
"The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of the Lord endures forever." 1 Peter 1:24

Today I took a ride with several Spirit Riders friends out to Comer, Ga., to the Watson Mill Bridge. This is one of the oldest covered bridges in the state, and was featured in the movie, "The Bridges of Madison County." It was built in the late 1800's, and was restored about 30 years ago. I always enjoy historical places, and this bridge trip was very enjoyable. With the leaves falling off the trees, and the weather getting colder, its time to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds while you can.
Rob

As You Vote- Count the Cost
As Americans go to the polls this Tuesday, we have much to consider. We must decide what kind of America we want to leave for our children.
We face a global threat unlike any we have ever faced before. How we respond to this threat may well determine our future. There are radicals in the world who hate us deeply, and want to conquer or destroy us. They do not want to dialogue with us- they want to destroy us.
So, what will our policy be? How will we respond long-term? Will we be led by those who believe America is at fault, that we must somehow appease and make amends, that our own soldiers are war-mongers and imbeciles? Will we grant leadership to those who would have us pull out of the battlefields we are on, abandoning our ideals and those we fight alongside? Or will we see that our lives & freedoms are worth fighting for, no matter the cost or duration?
What if, in WWII, we had pulled out of Normandy after D-Day, following the thousands of casualties of the first few days? Or if we had withdrawn from Luzon, Iwo Jima, or Okinawa, with the tens of thousands of casualties in those battles alone? What would a world have looked like under the rule of Nazism, Fascism, & Imperialism? Now, what would a world look like cowering under the fear of radical Islam & terrorism? Do we want a world under the influence of "Sharia"? There are those in the world that do...
So- who should lead us- those who say the cost is too high, the cause wrong, and that we are "stuck in Iraq"? Or will we be led by those who hold the conviction that we must "stay the course", no matter the cost?
I say we are fighting for our lives against those who would take it, and I say its better to fight the enemy in his back yard, rather than our back yards.
Some things to think about. Now go vote.
Rob

I love the colors of fall. I'm amazed and dazzled every year by the incredible display of hues in creation. From bright yellows, to neon oranges, and rich reds, no artist ever painted with more vivid colors. As far as the beauty you can see in creation, I think I enjoy the fall more than the spring. There are even flowers blooming in the fall, adding to the brilliance! Over the past couple of weekends, I've ridden my motorcycle on short trips around North Georgia, and have been awed by the colors everywhere- God's ever-changing canvas on the mountains, hills, fields, and the sky. As the late songwriter Rich Mullins penned, "There's so much beauty around us, for just two eyes to see; but everywhere I go, I'm looking..."
I believe Heaven's beauty will truly be beyond our comprehension. I believe God's heavens and earth will be perfected and free from death, decay, and disruption. I can't say this for sure, but I believe the new earth will display all the colors of spring, summer and fall, altogether. Imagine for instance- a cherry blossom tree with its white flowers out, and its leaves fully orange, at the same time! In fact, all the flowering trees and plants, in full bloom and full fall color, set against the greens of evergreens, and the bluest skies ever seen- forever.
I'm just imagining, as I sit here and gaze out my front porch window...
"According to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells." 2 Peter 3:13
Rob

Last weekend I got to participate in something that was a huge honor for me. Hebron hosted the funeral for Lance Cpl. Stephen Johnson, the soldier I talked about in my last blog. The Spirit Riders motorcycle group was invited to participate in the funeral procession, along with members of CMA and a group called the Patriot Guard Riders. These bikers are a group from across America that attend the funerals of fallen soldiers, to honor them with color guards, and to insure any protestors don't show up and get close enough to disturb and disrespect the family.
We rode at the beginning of the funeral procession to the cemetary, and provided flags at both the church and the cemetary. This was a great honor for all of us involved, and humbling to have been invited by the family to participate. Whatever anyone may feel about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, our young men and women are there fighting terror for us and the people of those countries, so we won't have to fight them here in our own backyard. For that, we owe Stephen Johnson and all our armed forces a debt of gratitude.
Rob

This weekend I was the on-call pastor, taking emergency calls from our people in need. I got a call Saturday from a new family in our church, trying to reach a pastor for prayer. Their son was serving in Iraq with the Marines, and his company had been attacked by enemy insurgents. His Humvee had been blown up, and he had been blown out of the top of it. The family here had been told he was MIA- missing in action. They did not know where he was, and after 14+ hours had no clue what had happened to him. The company had been attacked near a water canal, and some thought he had been blown into the water, but there was no trace of him. I took their call, and went to their house, praying with the family and spending time with them. The worry, the not-knowing, all caused a lot of fear and stress. I tried to bring as much hope & comfort as I could.
Today, they got the word that their son had been found, and he was dead. I went back over there this evening, spending more time comforting and helping any way I could. They were grieved at the news of his death, but relieved to finally know what had happened. Their soldier son was a believer in Jesus, really living his faith, and the family took great comfort in that. The days and weeks to come will be difficult, but they know God knows and feels their hurt, and will be near to them in this time. They also know they will see their son again, as we all will see the Son, never to be saddened by separation again. That brings me great hope as well.
"We do not grieve as those who have no hope..."
Rob

October 1st was a day of real worship for me. I woke to a beautiful morning, and thanked my Father in Heaven for its quiet splendor. At church, the worship in our RockiTown kid's church was amazing- kids singing out loud with all their voice & heart, spontaneously standing, raising hands, closing their eyes, etc. We could feel the presence & pleasure of God in that room, both hours. I enjoyed an afternoon with Lisa, talking and swinging on the porch, as our girls were off with friends. It was satisfying, intimate fellowship and conversation. At the evening service, a group called "Praise in Motion" led us in worship through ballet set to praise music. It was captivating. Young women dancing their worship of God was a beautiful sight, and our hearts were caught up the moment. Women are so exploited in our society, yet this was their beauty as God intended it to be seen. On the way home, I saw a colorful sunset, painted across the sky as with brushstrokes, and I worshipped as I rode.
Worship is so much more than standing and singing some songs out of a book, or listening to someone else sing, "Amazing Grace." Real worship is our response to the presence of God, and flows freely from us when we open ourselves to experience Him. That is often out in His creation for me- and yet today it was with His people, in two different settings. It was an extraordinary day.
Rob

Wednesday I took the day off to do something with my parents & brothers that we never have done before- we all went for a motorcycle ride! One of my brothers flew in from TX, the other came up from Locust Grove, and they both rented bikes, then we all went for a day of riding together. We rode through towns all around Lake Oconee where my parents live, and it was an incredible time. We also stopped in Rutledge for lunch together, just the "original Brooks 5", another thing we haven't done since we were all back in school.
Yet as our day came to a close, it all ended on a sour note. I had left for my home, and my dad, mom, and brothers rode the rentals back. Mark took one bike, Rick the other, and on the way there, my dad got to ride Rick's rental some. Not far down the road, in a tight corner, my dad lost control of the big bike, went into the dirt/pinestraw in the corner, and slid out, himself flying off the bike. He sustained 5 rib fractures, 3 pelvic fractures, and ended up at Atlanta Medical Center. Amazingly, upon x-ray, his bones had all reconnected, and everything was where it was supposed to be! By Thursday p.m., the docs sent him home, saying, "There's nothing we can do for you here that you can't do for yourself- Go home!" Today, he is sore & stiff, but getting around pretty good. I told him he's like an old wild turkey- wrinkly, stubborn, and tough. He even plans to get back on and ride again in a few weeks- in his OWN bike, thankfully!
I'm blessed with great families- both in the one I was born into, and the one I nurture now.
Rob

I just got back from a 4-day road trip with my dad. We rode our bikes up into N. Carolina to the Blue Ridge Parkway, and rode it, the Cherohala Skyway, the Foothills Parkway, and famed "Tail of the Dragon", US 129, among other roads in NC, TN & N. Ga. Four days of fun riding, breathtaking mountains & valleys, and great fellowship with my father, and our Father. Riding up there in the higher elevations of the Smoky Mountains is both awe-inspiring and dangerous. A fellow biker wiped out up on the Blue Ridge, right after this picture was made, and we were the first to come up on him and help. The sights we saw, the experiences we had, and fellowship we enjoyed made it among the most memorable times of my life. We both found a deeper friendship as father and son, and found a deeper worship and intimacy with our Heavenly Father, up there on those roads, among those mountains. The sad part is always when the journey ends, and you must come back to civilization (such as it is!). And yet I know, from the very heart of God, that a day will come when the adventure will never end, the discoveries will never cease, the fellowship will never be broken, and the beauty will be eternal & unblemished. For then, as Tolkien wrote, "The road goes ever on..."
"Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, what God has prepared for those who love Him..." 1 Corinthians 2:9
Rob
p.s. Check out some of our ride pics- http://spiritriders.net/v-web/gallery/

Yesterday I turned 43 years old (young). I had spent the morning riding my bike and meeting my parents for lunch, and when my girls got home from school, they said they each wanted to take me out for my birthday present. I went to the mall with Anlsey, then to a motorcycle shop with Kelsey. I had two great "daddy & daughter" times, in the same day! When Kels and I got back to the house, we walked in and "SURPRISE!!!" a bunch of the RockiTown leaders and families shocked me nearly to death with a birthday party! I nearly had a heart attack! Totally caught me by surprise. I'll post some pics as soon as some of them send me a few. Anyway, we ate, talked, laughed together on into the evening. What a great time it was. The older I get, the less I expect big things for birthdays (you want to forget them, if possible!), but the more I look forward to times with family and good friends. And these folks are among my very closest friends. I'm thankful for family and friends in the Lord- we'll always have each other in Him!
Rob

This past week Lisa & I spent our 19th wedding anniversary in Perdido Key, Florida. We had some much-needed alone time, and we got to do some fun things down there as well. We ate at several local favorite restaurants, took long walks down the beach, and visited the nearby Pensacola Naval Air Museum. That was a fascinating trip! We also found the Pensacola Lighthouse, the first one built on the Gulf Coast. It is 150 ft. high, and 175 steps to the top! The weather for our time was warm and mostly sunny, and we completely enjoyed being away from the busyness of our daily lives. I think the older I get, and the longer Lisa & I are together, the more I deeply love her, and the more I want to do things together with her. The girls are everything to us, but we know one day soon they will go on to make their own lives. When they do, we want to make sure we don't have to get reacquainted, that we can spend the rest of our lives enjoying the years together.

This past Sunday we did a special promotion for our 5th graders before they move up to middle school this week. We had a gameshow for all of them to be contestants in, they selected all the music, and we showed funny video highlights they wanted to see from the past several years. I challenged them to have courage, make wise choices, and follow Christ, based on the story of Paul's nephew in Acts 23. I gave them an equation for life, to sum up what we hoped for them-

Live what you learn + Do the right thing = God's blessings

Good code to live by- so few Christians today learn (much less live) God's Word, so few make wise choices based on His Word, and yet they all want God's blessings. We told the kids that God honors those who honor Him. That's a truth all of God's "children" need to heed.
Rob

This past weekend one of our well-known children's leaders lost his wife to cancer. She had only been diagnosed with it back the end of June, and now she was gone. The shock and sadness of a loss so sudden and unexpected was hard to comprehend. I was thinking about it today, because so far in my life, I've not lost anyone really close to me. It was sad when each of my grandparents died, but I was not extremely close to any of them, since they had lived far away most of my life. When I think about my own parents aging, and about getting older myself, I find myself thinking about Heaven and eternity more. Its hard for us to imagine it, since all we know is this life, this place. I can't imagine the pain it will be when my parents pass on, or if my wife, girls, brothers, or close friends were to die. But we live in this life for only a short while, then God promises us a place of no tears, no goodbyes, no ending. The older I get, the more I find comfort in that, though I can't completely comprehend it yet.
No more death, no more goodbyes, no more funerals- How I long for that day!
"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes,..." Revelation 7:17
Rob

We got back today from an overnight caving trip with a group of our graduated 5th graders. We took them up to Sweetwater, TN to the Lost Sea Caverns. We arrived for supper and then the standard "tourist" tour- a view of the special formations, the walking tour, and the glass-bottom boat ride on the underground lake. Then we got "The Wild Tour"- with guides, we climbed, crawled, and squeezed our way through undeveloped parts of the caverns over about 2 hours. It was a blast! We got dirty, tired, and were definitely cured of any claustrophobia we may have had! We then camped out in the caverns, and left after breakfast this morning. The whole trip was a great time to spend with our 5th graders before they move up to middle school in a couple of weeks. We also spent some time talking about things they will face in their teen years, and how to keep anchored to Christ. I pray that the kids coming up and through our kid's ministry will "live what they learned", and always remember the times we have shared together.
Rob

I'm writing this from Kid's Camp, up in Anderson, SC. We finished our final night here, and its been an amazing week! We carried 378 kids & leaders here, and have enjoyed awesome, fun worship with Brent Weber, crazy daily comedy skits with our teen intern team, great water games with our Rec. staff, lots of swimming at the city water park, and good Bible studies on the "Armor of God". Tonight, we shared the Gospel of salvation with the camp, and had 27 kids want to trust Jesus Christ! Then we had a celebration talent show, and it was so much fun watching our kids cheer each other on. Truly, its been one of those times that, even as an adult you find yourself thinking, "I would love to just stay in this moment, feel this love & joy, enjoy this family-feel, forever." And we will, one day in Heaven. This has definitely been a little taste of what's to come. I'm drinking this up, looking forward to the day we'll never "put the cup down".
Rob

4th of July weekend was a great time for me and my family. My brother, Rick, came from Texas with his family, and my youngest brother, Mark, was there all weekend, as well. It had been several years since our whole family was together at one time- we had not even been able to get together on major holidays in at least 3 years, maybe longer! We all spent Sunday through Tuesday together- my family, Rick's family, Mark, and my Mom & Dad. It was refreshing to be all together again. As kids, my brothers and I fought constantly; now, we look forward to times we can be together. Its funny- I'm the oldest, but I'm often mistaken as the youngest! I'm the shortest, have the most hair, and the least gray. I certainly enjoy that, and rub it in with them when I can!
Its always good to get together with those who mean alot to you, yet always sad to say goodbye. I look forward to the day, in Heaven, when ALL those we have loved, those who have followed Christ, will celebrate together, and never say goodbye. What a reunion that will be....
Rob

I was reading in Psalms the other morning, and found myself in Psalm 42. It begins with the following- "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for Thee, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; When shall I come and appear before God?"
I got thinking about that, how David hungered and thirsted for fellowship with the living Lord. We often "thirst" for so many other things- recognition, material things, relationships, etc. Yet Jesus says, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." I often chase after the wrong things, and thirst for things that won't really satisfy my soul. David had it right- those who thirst for God, who really devote their lives to knowing, loving, and living for Him, they will be deeply and eternally satisfied. That's where I want to find my thirst quenched, as well.
Rob

We just finished a week of Vacation Bible School, and it was a blast! We did a western theme called "Treasure Canyon", sharing with kids the real treasure of knowing Jesus Christ as one's Savior and Lord, and living for Heaven with Him, where the real treasure is. We had over 1700 attend every day, and saw 101 kids come to Jesus Christ. A lot of people made this incredible week happen, and I'm amazed at how our folks pour themselves heart and soul into this every year. It takes so much work to get ready for, and it is so much fun all week, its almost sad when it over! Oh well, Camp is up next, and that's always a big time, too!
Rob

This weekend I had a most amazing, memorable experience. I got to perform a wedding renewal ceremony of my good friends, Tommy & Tracy. They have been through much difficulty over the last few years, and I have been privileged to be there to help, encourage, and support them through it all. As Tracy wanted to surprise Tommy with this ceremony on their anniversary, I was overwhelmed with the tremendous honor to be asked to perform it. As they stood before each other, and their girls stood with them, I thought about everything that brought all of us to this point. I thought, "Of all the places I could be, and of all the things I could have done with my life- I wouldn't trade being here with them today for anything in the world." So often ministry is hard, thankless work, but when you really get involved with people and live life together, its very humbling and rewarding to be there in the important, memorable times in their lives. I love what I do- moments like that with Tommy & Tracy, and times like RockiTown, VBS, camps, etc., make the difficulties of ministry worth it all.
Rob

A couple of mornings ago I was reading Psalm 15. King David asks the question, "Lord, who may live in your tent, and who maydwell on your holy hill?" In other words, who can live in close fellowship with God, and who can live in Heaven with Him? He then lists qualities that are acceptable to God:
A walk of integrity & honor- v.2
acts of righteousness- v.2
truthful speech- v.2
doesn't bad mouth others- v.3
doesn't do harm to others- v.3
doesn't pick up and hold a grudge against a friend- v.3
despises perverts- v.4
respects & looks up to those who follow the Lord- v.4
keeps his word, even if it hurts- v.4
doesn't lend to others with interest- v.5
doesn't take bribes against others- v.5

This sounds like a good creed to live by. If more of us lived by these, we would make a greater difference in the world.
Rob

Last Sunday in RockiTown (our children's church), we talked about Heaven- how long is eternity, what will it be like, etc. I asked the kids to imagine two things- picture the most beautiful place they have ever seen in their young lives, and the most wonderful experience they have had in their life so far. Those are times we wish time would just stand still, and we could stay in them forever. Then I said that is a taste of Heaven- where "All good things will never come to an end!"
I picture Heaven as everything beautiful and breathtaking in this life, multiplied a thousand times over- all the beauty of spring & fall, sunrise & sunset, mountains & tropics, etc., all at once, forever. All those we have ever loved, and all those we have ever read or heard about, who knew Jesus Christ and loved the Father, all together for the ultimate family reunion, never to say goodbye again. And best of all- the visible, personal presence of God, always and forever.
With all the struggles and trials of this life, its a wonderful thing to look forward to, and to get a little taste of here, from time to time.
"Eye has not seen, nor ear has heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, what God has in store for those who love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9
Rob

Friday night I had a very special honor conferred upon me. First Baptist Snellville was hosting a banquet for their graduating seniors, and each had been given the opportunity to invite those who had been an important spiritual influence in their lives. Each one that had grown up at the church had named me, their old children's pastor. When the invitation had come to me a week before, I was amazed and humbled. I have been gone from Snellville for almost 7 years, and they still remembered the impact I had made in their lives, and wanted me there for their special night. And what a special night it was! Some I recognized, others had to jog my memory a little, but all remembered me. One after the other came to me, recounting memories of their years in my children's ministry, sharing laughs and smiles together, and thanking me for leading them to love God and live for Him. Many came to know Christ while in the children's ministry, I baptized most of them, saw them begin to grow in their walks with Christ. Ansley my oldest daughter came with me, and many remembered her as a child there too. I saw parents, old Sunday School teachers, former staff members, even graduates from previous years who came back for the night as well. They publicly recognized me, I was in the slide show, and even got to pray over a group of them as the night ended.
To be remembered like that, and after so many years, was an indescribable experience for me. I was so honored to be there, and honored to have been used by our Father to help shape their lives for Him. I don't do what I do for any earthly recognition or reward, but that night blessed me beyond measure. I hope to continue to live my life and minister in Christ's name, and experience events like this for the rest of my years- and one day, hear my Father say, "Well done."
"I thank my God in my every rememberance of you,..." Philippians 1:3
Rob

Over the weekend I watched the movie, "Kingdom of Heaven", about the crusades of the 1100's and the battle for Jerusalem between the European Crusaders and the Muslim armies of Saladin. Although I don't entirely endorse the movie, I was fascinated by the "Knight's Oath" that Godfrey (played by Liam Neeson) gives to his son Balian (Orlando Bloom), before he dies. Here it is-
"Be without fear in the face of your enemies;
Be brave and upright, that God may love thee;
Speak the truth, always, even if it leads to your death;
Safeguard the helpless;
And do no wrong.
That is your oath."
Although we know that God loves us whether we are brave or not, this oath is amazing. It is a call to live with honor, to be a man (or woman) of true character, and to be selfless and compassionate. Not qualities often promoted in our world today. Yet that is how I want to conduct my life, how I want to be known and remembered. Not for any lasting glory or legacy for me, but to honor Christ, who was and is all these qualities. He is reason enough.
Rob

This past week our Hebron motorcycle group had the privilege of escorting the Moving Wall to Dacula. The Wall is a traveling half-scale replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC, making its way across the country. Hebron hosted it this weekend out on our property facing the post office. We were invited to ride with CMA in a motorcycle escort of the memorial from Lawrenceville to our town. We rode in formation behind its transport truck, carrying it all the way out 316 to Dacula, with full police escort out front and behind. It was a tremendous honor to participate in the motorcade, and an honor to help others remember our veterans and their fallen comrades from the war. We had a total of 18 bikes in the motorcade, joining 5 police motorcycles and 2 police cars. We have pictures posted at the Spirit Riders website- www.spiritriders.net . It was an event I'll always remember.

Rob

Sunday night our motorcycle group went to prison! We joined Terry Buice of Barnabas Prison Ministry at Gwinnett Prison to help conduct a worship service for the inmates. Terry works in several prisons full-time, counseling and assisting inmates in many ways. We go in with him on Sunday nights from time to time to help with worship services. After some spirited music and singing (hearing a room full of inmates singing hymns and songs to God is amazing), I got to preach, and I talked on Real Freedom in Christ: getting free from the sins that imprison and enslave us. After I finished, 5 men wanted to place their faith in Jesus Christ, several more wanted prayer for struggles in their lives, and 4 were getting ready to go home by the end of the month, so we prayed over them, for their paths to continue with God. In all, it was an amazing, Spirit-filled night. So often, like those inmates, people must hit rock-bottom from their own bad choices before they look to the God who loves them and can redeem their lives. I find that in many of those men, and too little out here in the "free world." We get imprisoned by so many things in our lives- the only real freedom comes from knowing and living with the One who created, knows, and loves us.
"If the Son has set you free, then you are truly free." -Jesus

I was on vacation last week during Spring Break, and had a unique opportunity to do something I never have before in my life- I went motorcycle riding with my dad. We have never owned bikes at the same time over the years, and now we do. So, we made family history! We rode around Lake Oconee across 2 days, and my mom even hopped on and rode some as well. For me, it was an amazing time- out on the open country roads, in beautiful weather, riding with my old biker dad. He first began riding in 1957, on a chopped/bobbed '54 Triumph. He's owned various Triumphs over the years, but has been off bikes for about 15 years. Rebuilding and riding that little Yamaha, and getting out on the road with me, was a memorable time. We had a great couple of days, and my mom took tons of pictures while riding on the back of my bike. You can see them at www.spiritriders.net on the "Photo Gallery" page.
What I came away with? Savor every moment with those you love, and even make memories with them when you can- you'll carry those memories the rest of your life, long after the events and people are gone.
Rob

One of my daughters told me the other evening that she didn't feel close to God anymore- she said she didn't think He was hearing her prayers, didn't think about her, didn't love her anymore. After we discussed all the Bible verses that talked about the "everlasting love of God", how "He is never far from any of us," how "His thoughts toward us number more than the sand on the seashore," etc., I asked her how long she had felt that way. She told me, "About a month, I guess." I told her, "Since the Bible says 'He is the same yesterday, today, and forever,' who do you think has moved maybe, you or Him?" She said, "Maybe I have,...I haven't been reading or praying much lately." I told her its easy for any of us to lose touch with our Father, and let all the noise, busyness, and cares of this life drown out His "still, small voice." He will not shout over the stuff that we often let cloud & crowd Him out, but He is always quietly calling to us- from His Word the Bible, in the words of others who love God, in music, in art, in nature's beauty, in the quiet of our own hearts- all if we stop and pay attention. Now more than ever, we need to "Learn To Be Still", like the old Don Henley song. I know I need that. In fact, God said that in His Word- "Be still, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
Rob

I have always been a huge fan of the music of the late Rich Mullins, who was killed in an auto accident back in 1997. I recently began listening to his music again, after several years. His band, The Ragamuffins, carried on for 2 more albums following his death, and I have those collections as well. There was always something about Rich's music that took me to another place, lifted my head above the clouds, and helped me experience God in the world around me. I remember that I cried when I heard of his death- it was like I lost a close friend, his music had so connected with me. It still does.
I can't really explain it, but when I listen to Rich's music, or the music of Johnny Cash in his final years, I have this aching in my soul- I don't know if its a lingering sadness over their passing, or if their music brings out a longing in my heart for the home they sang so much about. They both sang songs of home, i.e. Heaven, and yearned for the peace of the Father's eternal presence. I think the older I get, the more I long for that "home in a country I've never seen" myself. I believe its a longing God puts deep inside all of His children, the knowledge that there is more than just the stuff of earth- there are the "winds of Heaven," as Rich so often sang about. And one day, I'll stand in those warm breezes of eternity, and maybe join Rich in a chorus of "Awesome God". Something to look forward to...
"If if sing, let me sing for the joy that has born in me these songs. If I weep let it be as a man, who is longing for his home"- Rich Mullins, "If I Stand"

I spent Thursday night and Friday at my mom & dad's place, so my dad could help me work on my daughter's car. We spent most of the day under the front end, getting covered in dirt, grease and grime. We fixed what we needed to, and it probably saved me $300+ by doing it ourselves! We tinkered with his motorcycle some too, and just really enjoyed spending the day together, doing all that "guy stuff." As I headed for home that evening, I realized I needed to do one more thing. I called him on the cell phone, and told him how much I loved and appreciated him, and thanked him for everything. He replied, "I love you too, son, thanks for coming down." Unlike many I know, my parents are still together after all these years, still love each other, and I love them dearly. My mom is my greatest fan, and my dad is still my hero. I thank God for them both. I hope I never fail to tell them, for however many more years they have here.
Rob

I love watching the Olympics, summer & winter, esp. the closing ceremonies. Its all about celebrating- the achievements, the nations, the athletes. The Torino closing ceremonies were no different. It was filled with fun, festive music & choreography, great costumes & props, spectacular, dazzling effects. The athletes marched in, country by country, to the roar of the massive crowd, and even here in my own living room I was filled with the same wonder and emotion I could see in the eyes of those in that stadium.
There is something about the whole event that speaks deeply to me every 4 years- whether its Torino or Barcelona, Lillehammer or Nagano. The pageantry, the joy, the unity, the celebration of achievement, the wonder & awe- could it somehow be a little picture of what Heaven will be like? Think about it- People from every tongue and every nation, from every age and time, gathered before the throne of God, in unbounded wonder and celebration. The spectacle of the ages, of the universe. And it will not end. We will sing, dance, play, love- forever in the presence of our Lord and Savior. We will enjoy Him and each other forever. I think that's what my heart longs for. Doesn't yours?
Rob
"a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands..." Revelation 7:9-17

I recently rented the movie, "The Great Raid", the true story of the rescue of 500 American POW's held in a Japanese prison camp in World War II. Its really two stories in one- the survival of these men for 3 years under the brutality and deprivation of their Japanese oppressors, and the courage & determination of a band of soldiers to get them out. To go 30 miles behind Japanese lines, destroy the forces holding the camp, rescue all men still alive, then get back safely to American lines, all for these forgotten men, these "ghost soldiers" that had been left for dead- what an amazing story of courage and sacrifice.
I reflected on the movie, and I was reminded of the tremendous courage and selflessness of Jesus Christ to enter this world, facing all the wrath and hatred hell could unleash against Him, and went to the cross to rescue us from our sin. The greatest rescue of all time, no doubt. And I was a prisoner in sin, and He rescued me. For that, I am forever grateful.
"For He has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and delivered us to His Kingdom of light."
Rob

I saw a bumper sticker today that caught my attention-

"I like your Christ.
I do not like your Christians.
They are so unlike your Christ."
Gandhi

Some might blow that off, but it got me thinking. How many people out there feel that way today? Probably more than we realize or care to admit.
What can we do as God's people, as God's Church, to change that perception? How can we better be reflections of Jesus in this world? He set the example for us, so why can't we better be His hands, feet, and heart in this world?
Just some things to chew on...
Rob

It was beautiful weather again today, so I went out for a ride again (big surprise). While riding, I came upon an old graveyard behind a little country church. You might think this is strange, but I like walking through old cemeteries- you can read a lot of history in the gravestones. I parked and walked among the plots, and found many fascinating ones- A Civil War veteran who served under Gen. Robert E. Lee; a family that lost 4 children in a span of 8 years back at the turn of the century; a pastor who had served in the same church for almost 50 years; a soldier who died in WWI and was laid to rest here; a child died at age 6, marked with an stone angel; A woman who lived to 104 years old. Amazing. And so many others- each representing a life lived here, a person loved here. What were their lives like? What memories did they leave behind for others? I was reminded how fleeting life is, how fragile it is. Whatever years I have here, I want them to be spent in love- for my Lord & Father, for my wife & girls, for my family & friends, for those in my sphere of ministry, for those who cross paths with me. Just to live and give the life and love of Jesus Christ. I hope my gravestone will one day read- "He Loved: His Lord, his family, his fellow man."
"Life is but a vapor, here one moment and gone the next..." James 4:14

Just an added thought to the previous blog-
As I thought about it today, an amazing thought came to me. With all the wonder God has designed into His creation, as vast as the farthest galaxy and as tiny as the smallest cell, He considers you and I the crowning achievement of His creative masterpiece. We each are "fearfully and wonderfully made", as David wrote in Psalms, and His most beloved creatures. We are created in His image, and He loves us more than all else in the universe.
To me, this is very comforting, assuring. As we enjoy His masterful creation, we can enjoy the One who so enjoys us. And His heart is always toward us.
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works..." Ephesians 2:10

We've had beautiful weather the past couple of days, so I decided to hop on my motorbike and ride the back roads before dark. There were plenty of other bikers doing the same thing, and it was a great ride- cool, crisp temps, uncrowded roads, woods & pasturelands, and a great sunset for the ride toward home. As I rode, taking it all in and savoring the moment, I thanked the God who created it all. Then it occurred to me- of all the things our Father is (holy, just, loving, etc.), He is also the ultimate Artist. Creation is His ever-changing canvas, and His creativity is seen in everything from a breath-taking sunset to a ladybug that lands on my windshield at a stop sign. Artwork always says something about its artist, and certainly all creation says much about our Creator/Father. Spend some time enjoying Him in His masterpiece soon- its always on display!
Rob
"The heavens declare the glory of God,...the earth is full of His glory..." Psalms

Tonight at church, Billy spoke on prayer, specifically, practicing the presence of God in our lives. He talked of how so often we aproach God in prayer with an agenda- what we can get out of Him, what we want from Him, what we want Him to do. Yet He has created us for communion, for friendship & fellowship. So often we seek His hand and not His face. If the only times my girls ever talked to me was when they wanted something or were in trouble or had problems and expected me to fix things- we would have a disappointing relationship, at least to me. Maybe God doesn't always answer our prayers the way and when we want because He wants us to focus on "practicing His presence", just learning to be with Him, not just getting Him to act on our behalf. We often mess up one of two ways with prayer- we either treat God like a genie from a lamp, or we don't talk to Him at all. Both are dangerous. Billy quoted some author as saying, "Prayer is like breathing- When you don't do it, its like holding your spiritual breath and suffocating yourself."
"Pray without ceasing" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
i.e. practice the presence of God- He knows what we need even more than we do.

I'm very proud of my 2 girls- one has been on a mission trip to the Gulf coast to assist in ongoing relief efforts among those affected by hurricane Katrina, and the other is right now upstairs on the internet with a friend who just today lost her mom, and she's just trying to love her and encourage her. There is so much hurt and pain in this world, and as followers of Jesus we are called to be His hands & feet, and express His heart. Sadly, too often we Christians fall into 2 categories- we either close up in our own little safe, religious communities so we don't have to be around the "sinners" of this world, or we become so like those sinners in attitude, speech, and lifestyle that we totally discredit the life of Christ we should be living in front of them. More than anything else, I want my girls to grow up living among, and loving on, the lost and godless of this world in such a way that people look at their lives and want to aspire to be more like them, to have what they have in their lives. As writer Leonard Sweet once said, "We are to be in this world and not of it, but not out of it, either." It was Jesus Himself who once said, "Let your light so shine among men, that they may see your good actions, and glorify God in Heaven." That's a life well-spent!
Rob

Sunday we jumped into the new year with all the kids and leaders back, and it was great! Our kid's church was packed both hours & rockin', we bagan a fun series called, "The Gospel According To Narnia", and the worship room has been decked out to look like Narnia. It was an exciting day!
As I look at the new year ahead, what I want for my family, for the children's ministry, for Spirit Riders biker group I'm the prez of, etc., is what I want for myself- to follow Christ more whole-heartedly, to worship Him more, and to actively seek opportunities to share Him with others. I'm not sure what 2006 holds- its all a fog out in front of us. I just want to hold on to Him tighter, walk with Him closer, know Him better. That's the safest place to be, after all.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
Rob