That's Impossible!

That's impossible!  Most of us have heard that before.  Maybe from a parent, a friend, a co-worker, a boss, etc.   That challenges some of us to work harder to make it happen, but others simply give up.  Before we get too crazy, we should point out that we can't do everything.   If you are small, you probably won't be an offensive lineman for a professional football team.   You might be on the team, but in another position.  So let's be realistic.  Sometimes we want to do something, but it doesn't necessarily fit our abilities or skill set.

However, you will likely have many people say, you can't, throughout your life.  Be careful to not let their words beat you down and discourage you.  But, also be listening to those with wisdom.  Those who can help us develop those abilities and skills we have been given.    Who can help?

First, start with the book of Proverbs.  Leadership expert John Maxwell challenges leaders to read one chapter of Proverbs each day for a month.  He says it will change your life.   That is what I have been doing for the past few days.  It is amazing what you can learn again for the first time when you read the Bible with a new perspective.

Oh, and since I am a hockey fan...and an Edmonton Oilers fan...here is a goal that helps us realize that it is never too late, even when it seems impossible.

How Thankful Are We?

We are all set to head into another Thanksgiving Weekend.  .

The definition of thankful is, "Expressing gratitude and relief, a thankful prayer."   A couple of synonyms would be grateful and appreciate.

When you think of Thanksgiving, what comes to mind?  Ok, I'll go first (turkey, long weekend, time with family, travelling, etc).  I'm kind of embarrassed to say that being thankful did not make my initial list.  

My point is not to discourage, but to remind you, and me, to take time to be thankful and give God praise for all he has provided and done for us.

You Never Know

So I have something to confess.  My wife and I are singing reality show junkies.  Over the years we have watched, The Sing Off (acapella), American Idol, X-Factor, and the Voice.   Part of the fun is seeing where singers come from followed by their huge opportunity on the big stage.

But more than once, we see a familiar face or are reminded of a story.  That happened earlier this week on The Voice.  Preston Pohl got up to sing.  He talked about touring and recording with a Christian band.  Hmmm...my curiosity had peaked.  I Googled his name and this is what I found.  Remember this band?  Look at the guitar player.

Ok...now listen to him on this week's edition of The Voice

I might be the only one who is not surprised when I see yet another Christian artist performing well.  Many of them have likely been singing and playing in church for a long time.  It is fun to see them on a big stage showcasing their talent.  It sounds like the past couple of years have been tough on Preston and the guys in Story Side B.  One of their members passed away and Preston even gave up music for a year to try and deal with his friend's loss.

This is a big change for him.  Pray that God would continue to lead and guide his life.

Luxury

There's no place like home.  Those are the words many of us speak on our way home from vacation.  Sure, we love to get away, but after awhile, for most of us, the cottage, the tent, and the hotel rooms get old and we long for a good night sleep in our own bed.  However, the "stars of Hollywood," often enjoy luxury we could only dream of.  Do you think you could, "rough it," in some of these trailers?

Little Things Matter

Opening a door for someone and shovelling snow for an elderly neighbor seem very simple.  You do not necessarily think they will bring you any kind of a reward.  But you don't care.  You are not doing it for the reward.  You are doing it because it is the right thing to do.

We never know how God is going to use us.  Here's proof...

Unbelievable Voice

In my position, I get to listen to a lot of music.  Whenever you hear an album, mp3, etc you are hearing a song in its "perfect form."  If the producer is good, all of the imperfections are removed.  Sometimes, that means you can be very disappointed to see a live performance.  You hear the band mess up, the lights don't work, or the lead singer misses a few notes.  I'm not criticizing at all, I can't imagine how difficult it must be to be, "on," every night.

Maple Noise 2013 was Friday night at Timothy Christian School in Barrie.  Kevin Max is the new lead singer of Audio Adrenaline.  I was a DC Talk fan from back in the day and figured out that Kevin is an amazing vocalists.  He never misses a note.  So I was curious this time to see if he had lost anything over the years.  He lost nothing.  His range, dynamics, and presentation is unbelievable.  He also shared a bit of his testimony.  It sounds like God has been doing a real good work in his life.

If you couldn't make it, too bad.  Kevin and the rest of the band put on a fun show.  However, if you did miss it, it sounded just like this:

Smoke Detectors

Have you noticed that smoke detectors always let you know that the battery is low between midnight and 6am?  That shrill, loud beep, along with some loud instructions in French, let us know that our battery was low earlier this week.  My two-year-old even got caught up in the action by letting us know he heard a noise and people talking outside his bedroom.

Don't get me wrong, I'm thankful for the reminder, but I wonder if they could get more creative and "quiet" on future units.  When there is a fire, I want the beep to be loud and shrill. Whatever it needs to be to wake us up.  But a warning?  Why not a rapid flashing light?  Why not the soothing sound of ocean waves lapping up against the shore?  Or what if you could program it to play your favourite song?  It may not wake us up in the middle of the night, but the gentle reminder would be just as helpful...and might allow us to get the few extra hours of sleep we need.

To all of the smoke alarm companies...my suggestions...free of charge.  You're welcome!