he loves to give his people rest... :-)

Our family got back today from a 3 day weekend retreat which was SO refreshing. The idea was just to get away for a few days to be able to talk and rest and do some focusing. Ever since mom and dad and crew got here on the 25th, we've all been together, but we haven't had a moment to ourselves; it was good to get away. We spent the time at a cottage in the middle of nowhere with no tv or internet, and spent most of our time reading, playing games, going on walks, talking, wrestling with Dave, and goofing off... It was good to catch up with people and was just something I needed.

I'm not sure that I'm ready to head back up to school again quite yet, but I think I'm getting closer. I still have a few more days to figure it out. ;-)

I'll just add that I continue to be amazed and inspired by what I have been reading in a book called Three Cups of Tea that I got for Christmas about this guy who builds schools for impoverished children in the Pakistan region and Islamic culture -- something inside of me is restless to go out and serve and become a part of something larger than myself. Something inside of me is sickened by the thought of mediocrity and easiness and convenience, and something inside of me jumps at the thought of working in places like the Middle East to love on people and make a difference, despite the hoard of doubts and fears that claw for my attention...

And on the subject of books, I have also been completely blown away once more by what I have read (for the third time) in Rob Bell's bestseller, Sex God. It is definitely a must read for every person - Christian on not, married or single, young or old - it addresses all people, and its insights into the mind of God and humans as divine image bearing individuals are absolutely brilliant. It's well worth your time -- whether you have it or not! ;-)

Anyway, it's late tonight I'm up early tomorrow morning to go with my dad to Lexington for the day to help my uncle move, so I'm off to bed! Praise the Lord for rest! :-)