Travel Playlist, 10of16

I grew up in what I affectionately call "Nowhere, Indiana" -- to this day, when someone presses me on the real name of the 'township', they may have heard of it, but just can't place where it is--even if they've lived in one of the nearby towns.

Decatur is small city--bigger than many small towns in Northern Alabama, but not as large as neighboring Huntsville.  It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you are three handshakes from knowing everyone. But even here, so much has changed--they've added new stores and restaurants since our departure, including an Olive Garden and a Mellow Mushroom that opens downtown this week!  Yet, despite the upgrades in dining and shopping, this place has the heartbeat of a small town, which is part of what makes it great.

As an Indiana kid who grew up in a small town, I can appreciate a place like Decatur--and it's the kind of place that resonates with John Cougar Mellencamp's "Small Town"...



Today, I got to eat sushi in this small town :)  And sushi in Decatur means eating with JP. I met JP in the most unlikeliest of circumstances, which leads to one of the most miraculous transformations of God's grace that I have ever witnessed personally.

JP's parents came to me through a friend of theirs who attended the church.  He was a young man who had served his country, married and divorced, had success and troubles, and through it all found himself filled with bitterness and rage.  So much anger inside of him, he could hardly talk to anyone without it spilling out of him.  He asked tough questions and I gave no pat answers--he was measuring me, and it was uncomfortable scrutiny.  After one visit, I came back when I said I would, and he continued to talk and ask questions.  We agreed to meet in different circumstances, and somehow he took the risk of trusting me--lots of phone conversations, and a few more visits led to a visit to the church, more by way of appreciation than sincere interest, I think.  He had an opinion on everything and everyone--he totally freaked out nearly everyone because he was so intense.  We patiently kept working with him and he kept coming back--a little less intense each time.

Then, he started showing some real spiritual interest and introspection--the subject of his questions seemed to change.  One Sunday he said, "what was that?  why were you talking just to me?" -- I wasn't, and JP was now the one strangely uncomfortable, and wondering what was going on inside of himself.  Soon, JP gave his life to Christ--and the transformation from the angry, bitter, intense guy continued -- his whole persona changed: how he talked, how he laughed--the fact that he laughed, even at himself.  He went from demanding to wanting to know where and how to contribute--he was no longer the know-it-all, but the eager listener.  By the time he wanted to be baptized, no one who knew him before could explain what they had witnessed in the course of a few months.

JP's testimony was such a powerful display of what God can do in a life that is open.  JP and I still have great conversations, and I guy who likes to do that over good sushi is a friend for life!  Can't wait till I can take him to a couple of the sushi places in Cairo :)  In honor of JP, and his amazing testimony, I'm listening to Foo Fighters "the Pretender" because it has this theme of being fed-up and standing up to the lies to which you no longer want to be a slave...



Today, I'm also planning a visit with my good friend Ben (and his wife Krista and their newborn daughter).  Ben was a teenager just coming to church with a group of his friends, including Zach, who I think were mostly interested in the girls that had invited them.  While attending a retreat, Ben unloaded on the youth pastor about what he really thought about church and pastors, and it was less than favorable by about 10 lightyears.  Andy, the youth pastor, was brilliant -- he didn't shy away from the critique and Ben was struck by that humility and openness.  He came on a couple of Sundays and observed cautiously--he says that a defining moment for him was watching me, from the platform, put the church on hold to deal with Titus who had come up on stage to tell me something--Ben felt like that was genuine, and he liked it.

Ben went on to give his life fully to Christ, get baptized, and continue to stretch the limits of what people would feel was comfortable honesty.  He also became one of my greatest encouragers -- he would call me regularly to see how I was doing, to share what was up in his world, and always end by asking, "can I pray with you real quick?"

More than this, during an impossibly difficult time in the church, we had many resignations by committee members, many of which were simply taped to my office door.  Ben heard about these from a few others, and independent of anyone else knowing, taped his own letter to my door.  I remember coming into the church and being frustrated by the sight of yet another letter--until I opened and saw his signature, which confused me.  Then, I was floored as I read, "in light of all the resignations that have been received, I want to submit to you my official LETTER OF NON-RESIGNATION" and he went on to list all the ways that he was going to demonstrate greater commitment and service to the mission of the Church and support of it's leaders.  It is easily my favorite letter of all time.

Ben met and married Krista a few years later--Krista is awesome and so perfect for Ben.  I'm so happy for them and amazed at how hard they are working to start their lives off financially responsible.  In honor of Ben and Krista, and also from Foo Fighters, I'll be thinking of "Times Like These" because my times and conversations with Ben are always refreshing; I like to think that we make each other better, and I'm excited to see my friend...



And I will be able to see anyone who stops by my brother and sister inlaw's home tonight from 7-9pm, as Cliff and Cheryl have scheduled a last-minute, informal get-together to allow me the opportunity to see anyone whose interested. A day full of seeing wonderful people :) and lots of errands in our home town!

Pictures from yesterday...

Travel Playlist, 11of16

So blessed by my time with friends and family in Decatur yesterday--able to see so many as I rocketed around to finish necessary errands. More errands await today, and a couple more visits.

I'll begin back at Starbucks--not my idea, I promise!--to see our young friend Julie. I will be eager to get the update on Julie's life and to find out how I might continue to encourage and "spur her on" to the greatness that we know is waiting just beyond her horizon. My song for her, as it has been throughout our knowing of her, is Ten Shekel Shirt's "Risk"...

Then I will have lunch with one of my favorite Decatur residents who grew up here before taking on the exciting life of a travel agent, booking trips and taking many of her own.  An accident and an aging mother brought her back to this small town.  Ms Jane is not your stereotypical southern lady, but she is your typical old-school ChoGer.  She actually went to Anderson to attend the Bible College, and attended with some who went on to be national and international leaders within our little corner of Christendom.

I always liked Ms Jane--though we often never agreed :)  She was a risk-taker, and I'll take a risk-taker who doesn't agree with me any day over someone who agrees with everything I say and only plays it safe.  She's not afraid to say what she thinks, when she thinks it, and is quick to make a demonstration about what she thinks is True.  She would have had a lot in common with the Apostle Peter, i think, because this tendency created unique moments in our relationship and in my ministry.

But, I wouldn't change any one of those challenging conversations or disagreements for the world.

Ms Jane calls me "son", and I don't mind.  Though she was independent, full of life and energy when we began serving at 6th Avenue, she has had a several debilitating illnesses that left her much weaker and dependent in the year or so prior to our departure.  This gifted pianist and organist has struggled with her vision as of late, and that's prevented her not only from driving and doing so much for herself, but also from driving and doing so much for others as well.  During her many doctors, hospital, and nursing home stays, we had to help Ms Jane accept help rather than give it--this was a tough lesson for both of us.

One of our constant disagreements was over music--she did not like hymns or any songs to be done too differently than how they were written--though occasionally, she would like a different arrangement so long as it preserved the melodies and harmonies.  I'm not sure that she would like this rendition of "Nothing But the Blood", but it makes me smile and think of saints like Ms Jane--it's sung by Jars of Clay and features The Blind Boys of Alabama...



Today, Ms Jane and I will share a lunch, talk about the state of the Church worldwide, and health--she loves our kids and I'm sure she'll want a full update on each of them.  The visit, even if it takes hours, will be far too short; you never know how many more visits like that you can have--make the most of every opportunity.

And tonight, I will be spending some time with Keli's family.  Keli's parents resigned from their own ministry and moved south to be near us and the kids, and to join in the ministries of the church we were leading.  Their greatest ministry would be as grandparents to our kids during these important years.  I love the way that they have also grown in a deep relationship with my parents as they continue to spend time with each other on the occasion of our family birthdays.  Keli's oldest sister and her brother's family's also moved to Decatur during difficult times in the economy, and though we were once separated from family in our ministry, we were suddenly surrounded by family--and it was great.  I have felt sincere love and inclusion among my inlaw's, and I'm excited to spend some time with them in a family dinner. 

Among our family dinner will be a special member, Alexis--Lex and Grace became best buddies on their first day of Kindergarden and has been like a second daughter ever since.  She's sincerely missed by Grace, who maintains contact with her, but also by the boys who spent so much of their lives with her around, too.

In honor of the family, who are all original Detroit/Motown natives, the final song of the day is from the Temptations...




Pictures from yesterday...

Travel Playlist, 9of16

Sadly, today I will move from the Birmingham area, saying goodbye to my family, and head north towards Decatur.  That's easier to write than to actually do--it's been good for me and my family to spend time together these past few days--but the days will be few and then we will part again for quite awhile.

Before I completely leave Birmingham, I will get to stop by and share with the New Start Covenant of Grace congregation and their Pastor, Dr. Rev. Derrol Dawkins.  Dr. Dawkins is a pediatrician and a pastor--in fact, he's one of my favorite pastors--full of love for the Lord, for Truth, and for the Kingdom.  He's a passionate soul that fires me up any time I'm in a room with him. Our family was sincerely honored and blessed by their recent commitment to support our family and so I'm making a special visit to just stop in and tell them how grateful we are to have them praying for us.

Then, north a short drive to Decatur, Alabama.  We spent the nearly 9 years previous to our move to Egypt in Decatur.  Though each of our children were born elsewhere, they grew up there--when our kids think of home, they think of Decatur.  This day will be the saddest for them as they think of me seeing the people and places that are still home in their hearts.

As I drive north on I-65, I make a drive that represents a journey that I was not expecting in my life--the spiritual road that took us from associate to lead pastors, and the resulting road that led us to serve internationally are a part of the drive I will make today.  Decatur holds a lot of memories for us--and a lot of special people are attached to each of them.  Again, I'm struck by the Sovereignty of God and the amazing process He has used to shape our lives--I never could have dreamed up this life, but He did--and I'm so humbled, and scared, and excited at what might be ahead.

In honor of New Start, Dr. Dawkins, and this wonderful process, Song-A of the day is from Kirk Franklin's "Hero" album--an interlude called "The Process" that wonderfully leads into the song "Imagine Me"...



And Song-B, well that's in honor of sweetheart who is working hard with our kids in Egypt without me--while I walk into the warm, loving home of her parents, she and they will be on my mind.  I got a message from Keli in the middle of the night that led to a conversation--on the morning run to school, she and the kids had to get out and push the jeep out of a busy intersection where it died.  Fortunately it sprung to life and allowed them to finish the run, but the mechanic had to come pick up the vehicle.  The prognosis--a blown head gasket and some other related problems.  Fortunately, the damage was caught early and can repaired rather quickly and easily--unforunately, it will make for a challening day and a half of finishing the school week while I'm visiting with family in their home town.  So my song for my sweetheart today is Elton John's "That's Why Call It the Blues"...

Don't wish it away

Don't look at it like it's forever.

Between you and me, I can honestly say,

That things can only get better...



1/2 way through this trip and 1/2 way to being back home with Keli :)


Pictures from yesterday...

Jillian is a precious little girl--celebrating her 1st birthday was an added bonus to holding my neice for the first time.  She ate her 1st birthday cake more neatly than any other child i've ever seen--our friend Michele (who's just like family), had to take the icing and smear it on her face like makeup to make the before and after pictures complete!  The picture of Will with Jillian is the only picture of him that wasn't fuzzy--he is one nonstop little boy.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time with my family.

 

Travel Playlist, 8of16

Yesterday was wonderful time with family--first with my dad, sister, nephew and neice--and then many hours spent laughing, crying, and sharing with wonderful friends who honored me by driving to spend time with me at a central Chik-fil-A.  FOR THE RECORD, I did not eat a single thing there because I promised my family that I would not taste it if they couldn't.  Sometimes, keeping your word hurts--a lot!

Last night, I was blessed to see Zach and Audrey again--perhaps the last time for a long time.  I was so happy to see Maggie and Justin Banger, Phil and Lisa Oldham, Josh and Emily Deeter, Rachel Hebert (whom I have not seen in years), Valerie Higgins, Michele Murray and Gentry.  What an awesome time together--even better than our memories was the chance to share a bit about what God is doing in each of our lives.  These are just a sampling of wonderful people whom we know that are busy making the world around them better in so many unique ways.  In honor of this group, I've got the Five-for-Fighting song, "World"...



Today, Dad and I will have lunch with their Josh Deeter (youth Pastor at Riverchase Community Church) and one of RCC's beloved leaders, Maxi.  I'm not sure I know a better encourager than Maxi -- I will be full in more ways than one after this lunch!  Pastor Tony, as I understand it, is sick and will not be able to join us.  RCC is not just a supporting church, but they're also one of the churches we have served and remain wonderfully connected to even today--in fact, nearly everyone who met me at Chik-fil-A last night are people who were co-laborers with us at a unique and special time in that congregation.

Today will be a better focus on my family of origin--more time with Mom and Dad, but also my brother Brian, and my Sister Indra and her family (husband Michael, children Will and Gillian).  I got to have significant time playing with Will and Gillian yesterday--today is Gillian's birthday, so we're gonna party!

I'm looking forward to more time with family; especially more interaction with my siblings.  I have a brother (Brian), a sister (Indra) --both younger--and now, also a brother-in-law (Michael).  I'm sure I was not the worst big brother, but I can guarantee I was a far cry from the best--in fact, a far cry from "good" would be generous.  My brother and sister may disagree with that statement, but I confess that I wouldn't have wanted a brother like I was most of my life to them.

I was always right, they were always not as right or cool or whatever.

I was always too busy, and whenever I did do something with them there was probably an ulterior motive.

I was selfish, rude, petty, and million-and-1 other negatives I'm sure.

For example: my brother used to save any candy he received from grandparents, Halloween, or whatever.  I would steal his candy because I was never quite the saver.  I was so bad that my brother made and kept a ledger of a bag of M&M's that he had purchased--counted each piece and documented by color; before he would eat any, he would pull out the hidden ledger to see if any were missing, then deduct the number of ones he was taking to eat.  I'm not making this up--I caused my brother to be neurotic.

I've tried to be a better brother through the years--Lord knows I've got a lot of making-up to do--but they're doing all right without me.  My brother and sister have not only survived their relationship with me, they're doing good things, including watching out for mom and dad.  My brother is still single, and my sister has married a good guy and they have a beautiful son and daughter.

Their song is from Coldplay, "Brothers and Sisters" - I love my brothers and sister, and I hope that they continue to make their lives extraordinary, enjoying the gifts and blessings we have received together.




Pictures from yesterday...

we took over the Chik-fil-A because I knew the small Starbucks next door

would not accomodate us well.

Phil and Lisa Oldham still live on property that tells part of the story of our joint family history--a history that we discovered more of together while on a youth trip.

Special thanks to our very special friend Michele who helped to get the word out and direct everyone to the appropriate time and place--she's the best.  Gentry is a beautiful young woman with a lot to offer the Kingdom--I expect to hear amazing testimonies as a result of her faith.  Justin has to be one of the most uniquely talented and gifted people I have ever met--don't let the mature after-work appearance fool you--he's quite the creative genius!

Both Maggie (on the right) and Rachel's families were a very special part of our Riverchase and Alabama experiences. Maggie and Justin have a beautiful, amazing daughter, and Maggie has her hands full trying to raise her and Justin at the same time--but she's doing a great job.  Rachel is an uber-talented singer/songwriter that has her family's heart of pure gold and sincere faith.  Such a joy to see them all again...

 

 

Travel Playlist, 7of16

Soooo Overwhelmed!!!

It began the other night with Nick in Atlanta, continued through an awesome mini-retreat with Langfords and Alexanders, and then I was just floored by all the love experienced yesterday. 

I walked into Danny and Linda Pinter's home and a flood of memories of being with this sweet couple in their home again overtook me--joining them was their daughter Charity who had brought her kids to introduce to me.  Somehow during the waiting, Charity's daughter kept asking "When is your 'boss' gonna get here?"  I came in and Charity says, "I'm not sure how you became my 'boss'"--my response, "It wasn't from lack of trying."  Watching her daughter and boys and seeing the same expressions in their faces was great--and then watching her be all parental--priceless! ;)

Walking into Scott Memorial and seeing so many wonderful people who loved us straight out of college was just a flood of emotions for which I was unprepared!  To have several, like Brad and Ginger, eager to introduce their children to me was simply amazing and humbling.  Too many kind words by so many who have only positive selective memories--I can't believe they couldn't recall all the bad things!

And then, the moment that left me without words -- Kim and Delonte driving to see me just for a few moments as I prepared to share with the Rainbow Community Church.  Kim and Delonte found out that I was going to be in Chattanooga on Friday--they were in California.  They drove straight for the 2.5 days to try to catch me, and when they couldn't make it to church on time, altered their route to join us in Gadsden in the afternoon!  Kim was Grace's weekly babysitter, and we have not seen her since she graduated high school.  To see her make such an effort -- speechless.

And, as if that couldn't be enough, receiving, not one, but two deeply personal and penetrating messages by a very special reader--I couldn't move as I contemplated the depth of blessing at the side of the highway on my way to my parents.  I will be responding...

And now, well, it's...
"Sweet Home Alabama...where the skies are so blue" ~ Leonard Skynyrd

Last night, I drove back to my parents where I can enjoy them for a few days.  I will take a break for an impromptu Chick-fil-A gathering tonight for friends in the area who want to see me.  One note--I won't be eating there because I will be stuffing myself on the curry mom has made for me while I'm here :)!

The drive back into Alabama was really about coming to see family more than anything.  Ministry life often means that you move beyond family--that was true for us for many years, but we often spent extended holidays with both our families.  We were spoiled when both sets of our parents also moved to Alabama and allowed us the luxury of having grandparents nearby.  But now, living half a world a way, it's so good to have the opportunity to see my parents and all the family that I will see in the next week.

one of my favorite pics/memories ever

There's no song of the day--there's an album--the Beatles "1" album that features all their number one hits.  Dad loved the Beatles and I used to admire his albums, including the Abbey Road album that I was eager to duplicate on my first trip to London (Zach was a part of that trip).

I never really appreciated the Beatles as a kid, but I think of Dad every time I hear them now.  Mom is the one who was always listening and singing along to Kenny Rogers on all those trips back and forth to church--I don't know if she ever appreciated the Beatles!  This year, my dad turned 64, so here's the song that was in his head all day during his birthday,

this wasn't one of their #1's ;)

Not much more to say today--time to spend time with my parents.

Pictures from yesterday...

Zach presenting 3W to Scott Memorial Church of God (Pastor Danny is making notes--not sleeping--in the front row!)

Rainbow Community Church keeps their commitment to our family nicely framed outside their sanctuary.  So thankful for their sincere interest and partnership--their youth recently blessed Grace with a birthday package including plates and candles that we used in her party.  They also served me Milo's Sweet Tea for the dinner--I'm so much better now!

Kim & Delonte drove nonstop for a photo with this ugly guy!

Travel Playlist, 5of16

No pics from yesterday--too much driving. I left Hickory, North Carolina early to get away from their "winter weather advisory" and to try to stay ahead of the rain. I got into Atlanta and had some time to kill so I watched Skyfall at a discount movie theatre there (by the way, I loved how they're rebooting the series in this last 3 installments). I then met Nick Fiedler at Flip Burger Boutique (the original started by a former reality food-competition show contestant -- really, really good and unique burgers). Nick was in the youth group at Riverchase with Josh Weiger, Abby Smith and a few dozen amazing and talented young leaders; Nick was among my first interns and he said he uses the lessons and even material of leadership/personal development that he learned then with the employees he has today! He has traveled around the globe and written a book--of which he gave me a generous autographed copy that I'm eager to read). We have not seen each other in many, many years -- it was a highlight of my trip so far to sit down and share with him and catch up on our lives.

I left Nick and pushed further ahead on the odometer so that I could save hotel fees and see my parents for an additional couple of hours. I arrived late and will leave early in a few moments, but it was worth it--I love my mom and dad (and I got to see my brother Brian, too).

 

I am so excited about today, for several reasons:

1) I get to travel back to Chattanooga, Tennessee.  Just days after graduating from Anderson University, Keli and I loaded up a little moving truck and our Ford Tempo (worst car decision ever) and moved to East Ridge where we served the Scott Memorial Church of God from 1995-1999.  We were youth and Christian education pastors, and loved the relationships we developed in Tennessee and Georgia (the church sits on State Line Road).  It was here that we were thoroughly indoctrinated with SEC football, true BBQ (speaking of which, I may have to get over to Rib-&-Loin), and it was here that Gracelyn was dedicated.  In fact, the Pastor who performed that baby dedication has returned to pastoring the Church again--I'm looking forward to visiting Danny & Linda Pinter Saturday evening before Church on Sunday.

2) I get to visit with Zach and Audrey Langford -- as you know by now, Zach was a part of the 6th Avenue Church of God and heavily involved in our global missions efforts from that ministry.  We have not gotten to spend a lot of time with them since we officiated their wedding ceremony because they quickly left to serve a congregation in Birkenhead, UK -- now, they're preparing to return there as a part of the 3W Team, and we couldn't be prouder.

3) As a bonus, Zach and Audrey are driving up from Birmingham with our former associate pastors, James and Mary Alexander and their son Zion (and there's one on the way, but not-yet named).  I recently wrote about the ministry of James and Mary as they just had an exciting baptism service a couple of Sundays ago.

This will be a fun and emotional day--not "emotional" as in sadness, but in the full-spectrum of emotions: happy, excited, encouraged, humbled, and sad, too.  As I drive back into the beautiful Tennessee River Valley, I will be remembering so much--our family took a couple of vacations in the Chattanooga area so the kids could appreciate the beautiful community that we came to love in our few years there.

I will also have the wide spectrum of emotions as I spend time with Zach and Audrey, and James and Mary.  There is, or at least we feel there should be, a special relationship between those whose lives intersect at moments of calling.  Zach and Audrey are among several that we've been able to help pursue ministry/mission with their lives--whether right or wrong, we have a lot of pride and consider them like spiritual children for whom we would do anything to support and encourage.  From this perspective, all these like Zach and Audrey make us appreciate and resonate with the words of the Apostle John in 3rd-John-4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."  And, so, for them, Song-A of the day is from the David Crowder Band, "You Are My Joy"...



And Song-B of the day, well that's in honor of James and Mary.  When I met James and Mary, they were nervously hosting me and the 6th Ave BOE Chair as we were interviewing them to be youth pastors.  We drove to them in Oklahoma and wanted to spend some time with them, their friends, and to see them in their own environment.  We also spent hours talking at their house--each of us confessing.  They confessed that they had been putting off jumping into ministry, and we confessed as a church that we couldn't promise them a lot.  We were inviting them to jump, to take a risk with us as we would be taking a risk with them.  6th Avenue is not only blessed today because they took the risks to hire James and Mary, but because James and Mary were encouraged enough to risk with 6th Avenue.  And so, Song-B is also from David Crowder, "How Great," if only for the opening lines that wonderfully convey the emotions and confessions of that evening's conversations in their home:

"I'm so bored of

little gods

while

standing on the edge of

something large,

while standing here so

close to you...

we could be consumed"

We're so thankful for James and Mary and excited to see how God continually leads them and leads through them.


So, a day full of joy and great company: Awesome!

Travel Playlist, 4of16

"On the road again, goin' places that I've never been..."

Today, I'll be leaving Hickory, North Carolina -- what a day I had yesterday.  I underestimated my distance by about 50 miles and started a bit later than I planned because I was enjoying talking with Pastor Brian and Nancy Harrel in their home in Parkersburg--I really like those two! 

Anyway, I had full day of driving through beautiful Appalachian country.  I stopped off in Ronceverte, WV on the other end of the state where the ladies of the WCG who support us surprised me with a lunch--perfect break with wonderful people.  Back on the road, I swooped down into Roanoke, VA -- the GPS took me through some little country, two-lane county roads that were quite winding and no shoulders that gave me impressive views of the ravines below!  As I wound through there, it was the frist time ever that I was making my own self car sick, and had to roll the windows down, despite the cold, just to get some fresh air!

I made it into Hickory, about an hour and a half later than I was hoping--but there were more than 20 people from the congregation waiting to receive me and to hear about our family's service to the Middle East.  It was a great time of sharing together.  After a late dinner with Pastor Michael and his wife Kelly, it was time to crash!

The long, tiring drive yesterday led me to listen to only about half of the "Truth Between Us Series"--i needed to sing to keep myself going, so I jumped into a little of today's playlist to get me through.  So today, I'll finish the McManus series as well as finish today's playlist...

For you younger and less civilized readers, the quote above that begins this post is from a song by Kenny Rogers back in the day -- he was a country singer.  I'm heading back to some of my roots of radio for this post:

As you know, I grew up in the middle of Nowhere, Indiana and we lived a good 45 minute drive to church--one way-- three times a week.  We had an old, 2-door, vinyl top, Chevy Nova (wish we never sold that thing) that only had an AM radio.  I grew up listening through hours, if not eons, of old country music begging for some Kenny Rogers, Oak Ridge Boys, or Alabama to break the monotony of all the other stuff -- but most of all, I longed for the storytelling of Paul Harvey.  For those of you who have never heard me preach or missed my tweets about my appreciation for the Ram Truck commercial using Paul Harvey's "And On the 8th Day, God Made the Farmer"--you may not know that his storytelling may had the earliest (and one of the greatest) influences in my preparation.

Anyway, as I head south from North Carolina (did you enjoy the Bill Cosby clip), and west into Georgia, I will be going old school on my playlist.  I love me the 80's, and some country, and some old "contemporary" Christian music -- it's not all so old as those days of listening in the Nova -- no these are after I discovered FM and the ability to purchase my own music--too bad there aren't podcasts of Paul Harvey--or are there? hmmm...

Here's a few of the "oldies" hanging out in my playlist...


Billy Joel - "The Piano Man", & "You May Be Right (I May Be Crazy)" -- anyone ever see the Broadway musical based on his songs?

Alanis Morisette - "Ironic" -- and, don't judge--what "oldies" are hanging out in your playlists?

Bruce Hornsby and the Range - "The Way It Is" -- I love the sound of this band: the voice, the piano, the style--good stuff.

Bryan Duncan - "Looks A Lot Like Me"

Chicago - where to begin the album "Greatest Hits 1982-1989," including "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," "You're the Inspiration," "Hard Habit to Break" - any "Best of the 1980's" without Chicago suffers from amnesia

DC Talk - "Jesus Freak," "Consume Me" (ever hear the story of how I signed autographs for DC Talk -- seriously--there are dozens of their posters and merchandise with my signature, to prove it; though they were just as confused as I was at the time...)

Elton John - Sir Elton is one of those fascinating people I would love to have a conversation with -- as an Indiana kid who was nearly the same age as Ryan White, Elton's compassion endeared him to me forever -- "Tiny Dancer"

Garth Brooks - High School girlfriends got me to listen to Garth and that's one of the only things I don't regret from those years ;) -- Garth has to be one of the greatest showmen ever -- I have his "The Hits" album, including "The River," "Standing Outside the Fire," "The Dance," "Two of A Kind, Working On A Full House" -- I think I could win a karaoke contest with that last one ;D but don't hold me to that

Travis Tritt - country, again - gotta love "Drift Off to Dream"

Genesis / Phil Collins - one of my favorite artists ever, "That's All," and the "Serious Hits Live" album, including "Something Happened On the Way to Heaven", "Another Day in Paradise"

Jeff Healy Band - "Angel Eyes"

Michael Jackson - "Billie Jean," "Thriller"

Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark - "If You Leave" - oh, the 80's!

Nat King Cole - "L-O-V-E" -- classic, through and through--I nearly always have to play this song twice!

Peter Gabriel - "In Your Eyes" - John Cusack's famous pose from the movie "Say Anything" cannot properly be seen without the song playing on that radio.  Forget the movie though, I find this song deeply spiritual and inspirational


Rich Mullins - My first Rich Mullins album was bought in a bargain section under Anderson Campmeeting's big tent (only you old-ChoGers will get that one) -- any way, I bought it based on the endorsement of Amy Grant on the back.  Rich Mullins was one of those truly wonderful psalmists who is probably personally delighting the Lord with new songs regularly in Heaven.  His album "Songs" includes some of his favorites: "Sing Your Praise to the Lord," "Sometimes By Step," "Awesome God," "Boy Like Me/Man Like You," and one of my personal all time favorite songs, "If I Stand"




Rick Astley - "Never Gonna Give You Up" -- this is in honor of Grace (we sing this when it's her turn for dishes--it's fun, and it keeps me away from some of the Bieber and other stuff she calls music)

Seal - "Crazy" (if only for the lyric, "no we're never gonna survive, unless, we get a little crazy")

Simple Minds - yes, "Don't You (Forget About Me)" -- music and movies of the 1980's may best be summarized in one year--1985

Stevie Wonder - one of the best, ever - "My Cherie Amour," "Superstition," and on and on

Temptations - "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" (great road trip song!)

Tracy Chapman - "Fast Car" (i love her voice--this song captures a lot of emotion that resonates out of her and makes even yuppies identify with the character--i don't know another voice that could have done that with this song)

U2 - duh, of course they're here: "Vertigo", "With or Without You"

Van Halen - curiously, all the "hair bands" are missing from my iPod and playlists because it's difficult to push the "purchase" button to capture bits of the nostalgia that are better left in the past -- but, I couldn't keep myself from buying, "Dreams", and "Love Walks In"

Oh, that may be all I share with you -- and that may be all I have on the iPod at the moment, or maybe I'm sharing a few to share with you in the days ahead.  I'll always have a whole lot of love for those songs from yesteryear and each one takes me back down another part of "Amnesia Lane".


Pictures from yesterday...

These are the great cooks that were waiting for me in Ronceverte, WV -- a delightful group that blessed me yesterday with food and fellowship!

The sanctuary at Roanoke First Church of God was built while Kelly Hone (Pastor Michael's wife from Hickory) was a girl--in fact, her father was the pastor of the church who led the campaign and for whom the sanctuary is dedicated.  The church still operates a day care center that was begun in the 1960's--also a memory for Kelly Hone as that was the place of her first job!

 

No pics of Hickory yet--I'll head back over there today and get a picture of Pastor Michael and the staff before I hit the road.

 

 

Thank you for your continued interest and prayers for our family.  Pray for Keli tomorrow as she leads the 2nd week of the new Cairo Christian Fellowship Kids program--it had an exciting start right before I left last weekend and I haven't had time to fill you in on all the details.  I will once back in Cairo...

Travel Playlist, 3of16

Hello again.

Today, I bid Parkersburg, WV farewell after an awesome time among some serious-ministry-minded folks -- and a heartfelt "Thank You" to Pastor Brian and Nancy Harrel for hosting me last night. (pics and further info below)

As I say goodbye, it's time to set my eyes south to North Carolina and the First Church of God in Hickory.  Hickory is one of those congregations that signed on in support of our family though we had never met.  But, Pastor Michael Hone and his family had actually met me years and years ago -- Pastor Michael was the Senior Pastor of East 10th Street Church of God (Indianapolis), where we attended as my father served as a youth and associate pastor briefly when I was in the 7th grade -- I can never forget that church because that's where my nose (and sinuses) took a literal turn for the worst -- but I digress.

Pastor Michael and I have seen each other just once since then, at least, from what I can remember -- he reintroduced himself to me the night of our family's commissioning during the 2011 North American Convention.  It will be nice to have a chance to talk and share, not only with Pastor Michael, but with also with leaders from Ronceverte, WV and Roanoke, VA churches along the way who also support our family.



This route from WV to western North Carolina, (which reminds me of this funny Bill Cosby video above), will require a beautiful drive today and tomorrow, weather permitting, through part of the Appalachians.

While I drive these many miles today, I've chosen to listen to Erwin McManus and the preaching series the Mosaic Church in Los Angeles did from September 11 to October 30, 2011 -- the series began on the 10th Anniversary of 9-11, and begins with Islam for the series entitled, "The Truth Between Us".  I've listened to part, actually most, of the series -- but I'm thankful for the time to consider it all together.  As I've listened to it, I've found myself appreciating the depth of humility and wisdom that is present in not just talking about the differences between Christianity and other religions, but how McManus reveals points of connection and appreciation for the other religions.  For the Church in the midst of increasingly diverse and global contexts, it is important to understand and be able to demonstrate respect and appreciation for differences if we expect the same.

I downloaded the series from iTunes, and i'm not sure if it's still there since it's been over a year--but you can also find it via this podbay link.  If you listen, I'd love to get your own thoughts and how you approach/respond to people of different belief systems.


Pictures from yesterday's travels...

the day began in Bristol Village near Waverly Ohio -- my hosts, the Brinkman's (pictured here) treated me to breakfast in the Village cafe, and gave me a tour of the impressive facility and neighborhood.

 

 Once at Liberty Street Church of God, in Parkersburg, WV -- I spied this familiar picture (note to my kids: better smile good in every picture because you never know who will be hanging it up!)

 



That picture of the kids last Christmas hangs on this wall in the main room of the Treehouse--Liberty Street's children ministry center...

These kids spend part of their Wednesday night praying for Grace, Titus and Zeke--one little girl, duing the Q&A, raised her hand to tell me that she also prays for our kids at her home each night, too.  It was very sweet and they were very interested in learning more about the kids they have been praying for--and Pyramids ;)

I also got to revisit the youth group, though I spoke to the Junior High this time--I had spent some time with Senior High a year and a half ago on our last visit to Parkersburg--the adults dismissed before I could get to them.  I had a good night sharing with Pastor Brian, Nancy and Julie Harrell (their daughter).

Travel Playlist, 6of16

How do you feel about going back home?  I have so many homes to go back to that different emotions are elicited in each location, but in each, I have to pause and contemplate the amazing sovereignty of God that has orchestrated the events of my life/our lives.

When we graduated from Anderson, I was certain that youth ministry was the way I would serve the Lord for all my life (and to some extend, youth ministry still is a big part) and preaching would be occasional at most, and I really had so little understanding of leadership development or how to begin to do that with others. There were only two of us in our family, and we had so little experience with all that we were being asked to do--the youth ministry was not overwhelming, it was the rest.  At the time of our candidacy in the spring of 1995, the Pastor who "recruited" us resigned the week after we accepted to come serve--this was unexpected, to say the least, for the church and for us.  We literally unpacked boxes and handed the empty ones to him.  Within weeks, I was the only full time employee of the church--the music director and I split the preaching duties; within 9 weeks, I had given every sermon I thought I would ever need.  The church would eventually hire an interim pastor (who, incidentally, was involved in our invitation to serve a different church 4 years later), but all my 20-something ego and know-it-all attitude were sapped.

God had me right where he needed me to be so that I could learn.

First, in visitation and elder care - weekly, a saint if there ever was one named Bud would come pick me up from the church, drive us through Hardees for 2 Senior coffees, and off to see the "shut-in" members of the congregation.  He bought a communion "kit" so that we could offer the sacraments to each after we spent time talking, listening and praying with each.  There is not a seminary professor in the country who could have better prepared a pastoral heart in me than Bud.  He also encouraged me in the preparation of officiating my first funeral--something that I have had to do more than most people would believe.

Second, in articulating respect and appreciation of those with mental disabilities - of all the people I'm looking forward to seeing at Scott Memorial is Steve.  Steve was at least 20+ years my elder when we served there; he had worked the same job at the same store since he was a teenager.  He had also been an usher in the church since he was a child--and faithfully, seriously, served that post each week.  Steve would share music with me, and we would talk--not deep talks, just real talks.  There was also a young lady there named Cheryl who participated in the youth group.  She loved sports and games, and she loved the church.  Once I took a young man I was encouraging to be a youth counselor to one of her softball games; he was extremely uncomfortable, and I knew it.  I kept waiting for him to talk about it, and he eventually asked, "Why does God allow this?" -- "What," I asked? -- "You know," he said, "for her and the others to be, well, slow?" -- In a moment of sheer revelation to me, I shared what I felt God saying in my own heart, "Look at Cheryl--she loves so completely, without reservation.  We're not uncomfortable because her feelings are inappropriate, but because she loves more freely than we do.  Why has God allowed us to be like we are?  We look at her and say she's mentally deficient; but she also shows us that we're emotionally deficient."  That's a conversation I will never forget; nor will I forget all the love shown to our family through Steve and Cheryl.

Third, by the time we received Danny and Linda as our Pastors, I was so ready to partner in some ministries and follow his lead.  Some of my favorite experiences with Danny were actually on a weekly golfing trip that we would take for our "day of rest", though we were usually more exhausted by the end of day.  Danny introduced me to leadership development via John Maxwell and his InJoy ministries.  I listened to hundreds of hours of tapes, read more books, and went to several seminars with Danny.  All of this really shaped a lot of how I teach, but also in how I view the potential of those around us and how we can encourage them in their faith and service development.

And, finally, it was in Chattanooga that I received a greater understanding of justice and the idea that I often teach, "For God so loved the world, He got involved."  Some have heard this story, and it's too long to go into here--but I will never be the same after a drive home shook me to the core of all that I believed about ministry and being God's representatives in this crazy world.

Each of the steps along our path have uniquely led us to where we are in Egypt and what we are doing with the 3W Team in Europe and the Middle East.  We wouldn't be here or able to contribute to these things without the steps and experiences in Chattanooga--and we will always look back on those years with sincere fondness.

Today's song, in honor of the Sovereignty of God through steps along our path like Scott Memorial, is "Lead of Love" by Caedmon's Call...

"Looking back, I see the Lead of Love"


Pictures from yesterday...

AND, cheesy 3W video coming soon by Langfords and me :)

Travel Playlist, 2of16

After over 26 hours of traveling from the time I said goodbye to the time I arrived at my first destination and much needed rest, it's time to begin day 2 with the wonderful hosts who greeted me at the end of day 1: Gary and Janet Brinkman.

Gary and Janet are the epitome of how God has blessed my life with the most wonderful people.

Consider this introduction:  I met Gary and Janet through my college roommate, during freshman year at Anderson University.  Gary and Janet are my old college roommates, ex-high school girlfriend's parents!  They were my roomate's ex's parents when they made the trip to see him at school.  They're one of the loveliest couples I've ever known, and we've been blessed to have them stay connected and praying for our lives and ministries ever since.

Gary and Janet are providentially near enough to Cincinnati that it didn't take much effort for my tired body to get from there to them -- and, they made the arrangements for me to have nice place to recover and prepare for the journey ahead.

So, in honor of the Brinkman's, the first song of the day is: U2's "Beautiful Day"



After a leisurely, encouraging time with the Brinkman's, it's off to Liberty Street Church of God in Parkersburg, WV.  Keli and I met Liberty Street Pastor Brian Harrell at a Pastor & Spouse Retreat years ago, and we were delighted when their church expressed an interest in learning more about supporting our family.  The Liberty Street Church is a great church, focused on outreach and next generation ministry--I fell in love with the people and the vision during our visit with them in August of 2011.  As I go back today, I will be sharing with their kids and youth groups--love it!

In honor of a great, next-gen focused Church, the song of the evening is: Sanctus Real's "Face of Love"


Sorry--no pics from the travel yesterday--hope to snag some today...

Travel Playlist, 1of16

It's still Monday, February 18 at my destination, but it's Tuesday, February 19 here in Cairo, Egypt while I wait for my first of three flights.

Over the next couple weeks, I will be traveling to the USA.  The purpose of the trip is to participate in the annual Heart for Lebanon board of director's meeting, which is one day--but you can't just make a trip like this for one day, so I'll be visiting churches, pastors, and missions committees who either support us or who have an interest in what's happening in Europe and the Middle East.  And, I'll take some time for some very special friends and family, too.

Like a lot of people, I like to listen to music on road trips and traveling.  I will read and write along the way, too, as well as find moments of distractions in the in-flight movies -- but I will have a lot of tunes going through my head.  So, I thought those songs that I'm sure will rush through my mind and memories could be the theme of a series of posts to chronicle the journey.  If you find this interesting, great--if not, allow me the illusion of thinking I have an interesting life and taste in music ;)

I'll also post pics from the previous day's meetings and travels.

Today's featured song in mind and heart is "Starlight" by Muse.

When we left the USA on January 6, 2012, this was the song in my head and heart as our family and friends gathered at the airport to spend their last few moments with us as we boarded the plane for the first leg of this incredible, life-altering journey.  As I return, I will see many of the same along the way--but now the reason for this song is for my beloved and children whom I will leave behind.

This will be a difficult trip for me as I contemplate leaving my family for this long while they continue with school and weekly routines in my absence.  I've had to do this countless times before -- but the distance and duration of this trip is much greater than previous trips.  As much traveling as we do, as well as the state of the world and times in which we live, we can never take for granted those moments of goodbye and the anticipation of returns.  My prayer is not always just about safety, but that also that the time away is not just "my will" but in keeping with God's will to do what needs to be done and that those I leave behind will not face unnecessary difficulty because I left.

And, that's why I'll be thinking about these lyrics, which (to me) carry a sense of purpose mixed with uncertainty; it's one of my favorite songs...

Another Anniversary, Another Protest

Lately, citizens have had to protest the protestors
to get anywhere in Cairo!
(photo by Nevine El Shabrawy
via Egypt Independent)

Today, February 11 marks not just the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, but here in Egypt, it also marks the 2nd Anniversary of the former leader Hosni Mubarak stepping down.

Though most of the leading Twitter accounts have been quiet this morning, choosing instead to tweet about the Pope (quite humorously), the demonstrators have been preparing for this day for awhile.  Various opposition groups are using this anniversary as a day of protests against current President Mohammed Morsi, and many have expressed a desire to see him resign within the week as well.  To that end, they have been angling for various acts of "civil disobedience" in an effort to further disrupt "normal" Egyptian society.

The Mugamma has been shut down for the second consecutive day.  Employees and citizens were prevented from entering by protestors who blocked the entrances with barb wire and metal barriers ob Sunday, February 10, closing the main building of government offices at Tahrir Square.  The article states that despite pleas of those attempting to get in, the protestors stated that the building would be closed until further notice.  (Usually, these types of protests rarely interfere with our routines or lives--but this one is happening at the time we need to access those offices ourselves!)

The Metro lines, anticipating additional efforts to further disrupt services, had stationed as many 60 guards--this was reported, along with the report that they would not be armed and that they would be able to "nonviolently prevent" any demonstrations and disruptions.  The report only led the protestors to escalate their plan by charging into the main Sadat station below Tahrir Square while armed themselves, disrupting the service for about an hour.  Meanwhile, additional groups of protestors blocked both directions of traffic on the 6th of October bridge, one of the main city bridges crossing the Nile River.

While many groups are calling now for the resignation of President Morsi, the main opposition group, the National Salvation Front, has stated publicly (now) that they respect the legitimacy of his presidency.  Amr Moussa, former Presidential candidate and former head of the Arab League, has been a part of the NSF merger of various political ideologies under this singular umbrella--he stated recently that the NSF instead wants to challenge Presiden't Morsi's credibility and ask for quicker Presidential elections.

Things are continuing to be a bit chaotic amidst all the political protests; meanwhile, the economy continues to struggle as the Egyptian pound continues to lose value against the US dollar.  Concerns continue to grow as to whether or not schedule price and tax increases, and accompanying reductions to various subsidies on necessities, are looming as feared.

We continue here experiencing safety and blessing.  Thank you for your continued interest and prayers for Egypt...

Rejoice with 6th Avenue

6th Avenue ChoG--long ago, before the steeple!

We were blessed to serve the 6th Avenue Church of God for over 8 years in Decatur, Alabama -- our previous ministry role to being assigned to serve the Church of God in Europe and the Middle East.  We watched and partnered with great people who had to wrestle with difficult decisions about who they were and how they were going to minister to the community and world around them.  From each difficult decision, there were even more difficult choices and some times difficult consequences.

Over the past several years, they've been able to see some of the eternal "fruit" from those choices.

Last night, unbeknownst to them, one of their "sons" was sharing with a church in Casper, Wyoming about the impact the church had on his life--not just as a student, but as a young leader as he partnered with the church in what was called the Hope House.  Zach Langford, participating in a weekend full of missions emphasis, shared with the congregation's large Celebrate Recovery gathering because the pastors were so encouraged and inspired by his testimony.

And tomorrow, Sunday, February 10, 6th Avenue will baptize three young men who represent a group and community for whom the congregation has been sacrificing for years.  6th Avenue is not a large church, and though struggling to meet what most would consider normal expenditures, they chose to sacrificially invest in ministry to the next generation.  Among the related choices was to hire a youth pastor couple, James and Mary Alexander for one year--because they couldn't guarantee more than a year at a time.  This move not only allowed James to work with the youth, but Mary worked with us in the children's ministry on which we were also attempting to focus.

The children's ministry began reaching a group of boys that were Trouble (note the capital "T")--unruly, obnoxious, angry, belligerent, disrespectful, and not like any of the adults who were attempting to eat with them, pray with them, teach them, encourage them, love them--and, at times, just praying they themselves wouldn't throw the boys through a wall ;)  There were fights, there were timeouts, there were calls to parents, there were suspensions, trips home before the program was over, destruction of property, physical injury, and Lord knows how many more offenses.  Pleading for them to keep coming back was as much work as keeping the volunteers motivated to return themselves.

Before we left, we graduated several of those boys from the children's ministry to the youth group.  Even before we left for Egypt, Keli could note the changes in the boys during the annual Christmas dinner as one boy was offended that some kids were being "disrespectful" in an area of the room reserved for prayer.

And tomorrow, "C", "D", and "T" will all be baptized (I don't have their permission to share their names here, and so I won't).  This is not only a wonderful day for each of them, but also for 6th Avenue as whole.

Yes, a lot of work and A LOT of prayers, fasting, and more work was offered by James and Mary for each of these and so many more in the group.  They are tremendous Kingdom workers and we are so honored to have worked with them for so many years.

But while the Angels are Rejoicing in Heaven tomorrow, the good people of 6th Avenue ought to be rejoicing too.  Moments like these are "ROI Sundays" -- Return On Investment -- all the prayers, hard work, gray hairs, bruised sides, tears, headaches, fund-raisers, and unanswered "Why's" are being answered in those few moments that each rises out of the water testifying to new life in Jesus Christ.  Eternities have been altered because 6th Avenue adults gave and sacrificed, lost and forgave, prayed and waited -- and who knows how many eternities will be changed as a result in the years to come through these young men!

Years and years ago, my grandfather ministered in a rapidly changing Houston community.  He foresaw the need to reach out to and include some Hispanic young men into the church and even into leadership.  He invited one 16 year old boy to be a part of the Board of Trustees, knowing that he needed some of young Hispanic men to care for and invest in the property.  That 16 year old boy then couldn't believe it at the time--years later, I heard Rev. Gilbert Davila confess to my dad, "Your dad was the first one to see leadership potential in me."  In addition to decades of pastoral ministry, Rev. Davila is the voice of the CBH: Spanish program that reaches thousands internationally each week.

Who knows what the Lord has in store for each of these, or the others whose lives have been positively impacted by the efforts of 6th Avenue.

So, 6th Avenue, "well done, good and faithful servants, well done!"

But, don't relax those efforts; consider, who are the ones causing you to pull your hair out this week?  Who are the ones that make you think about resigning from the Children's or youth ministry?  Which are the ones that annoy you and interrupt your Sunday worship?

They may be the baptisms you celebrate and weep at in a few more years of sacrifice, prayers, tears, and perseverance.

"For our light and momentary troubles 

are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.  

For what is seen is temporary, 

but what is unseen is eternal."

~ 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

Egypt's Rodney King--Continued

In our previous post, we shared the shocking video of Hamada Saber being "allegedly" dragged, stripped, and beaten by Egyptian security forces during last Friday's demonstrations before being thrown by the same into a police vehicle.  The video, eerily similar to the 1991 video of the beating of Rodney King in Los Angeles, created outrage throughout the media and the population.

Then, in a shocking twist, the "victim" claimed that he was actually being rescued by the security forces, not assaulted by them, despite the conclusive video evidence.  From his hospital room, Saber went on to make media appearances with Interior Ministry officials who were thankful for him admitting this publicly and were promising to help with his health care and to even find him a job upon recovery from his injuries.

Few believed this statement.  Not even Saber's daughter; Twitter links started linking followers to news interviews with Saber's daughter who said that her father was fearful and coerced into making those statements.  There was even a link to one youtube video that said she was tearfully confronting him in the hospital, pleading with him to tell "the truth"--when he wouldn't and insulted her on the video, she called him a coward.

Last night, Saber has officially changed his story.  The linked article reports that Saber's son was called by him to tell him of his fear and the pressure he was getting from the police; Saber begged his son to get him out of the police hospital and either home or to another hospital.  Saber's son further said that his father did not know the incident had been filmed and that was the resulting reason for the attention and pressure.

To add further stains to the story and the integrity of the government offices and security officials involved, Sura Council (upper house of legislature) MP Maged Aqad tendered his resignation from what he called disgrace for working "under a regime that violates the rights of its citizens". 

Meanwhile, the Morsi administration made their own defensive statements to indicate that President Morsi declined the request of police to use greater force during the demonstrations -- though this is intended to make him sound merciful, it may also further throw a police force further under the proverbial bus as it attempts to deal with larger numbers of demonstrators and their growing anger.

Injuries, Deaths, and Torture?
Last week's violence included one immediate death by gun shot; the victim was Mohamed Hussein Qorany (aka, Christie), who was a student and active Egyptian blogger.  Questions surround his death, which only fuels rumors.

Today, another victim from the clashes has died due to a gunshot wound to the head, received during the clashes last Friday--Amr Saad Abdul Rahim arrived at the hospital in a coma but was unable to recover.  This news report also indicates that the number injured through the weekend has climbed to 113.

This morning, the papers reported the death of Mohamed el-Gendy who was a member of the Popular Current, one of the leading groups of the opposition that have united under the National Salvation Front.  There are several death by injuries, but the nature of el-Gendy's death points to brutality and even torture.  El-Gendy went missing from Tahrir Square on January 28, and then was found in a hospital from reportedly an auto accident; however, the news article reports that there were signs of torture on his body and that the opposition group is accusing the hospital of changing the date to coverup his alleged kidnapping.

The general population continues either in an uproar, now further fueled with opposition forces refusing to dialogue with the Morsi administration; or in anxious expectation of more dreadful riots to come as the economy continues to tumble, tourism spirals to nonexistence, and the only thing increasing is the desperation of the average citizens.  It is anticipated that the weekend will only bring more protests.  Grafiti seems to be spreading across the city, while barricades and walls are built to hopefully increase the difficulty of demonstrators marches.

Thank you for your continued interest and prayers...