Usually this website is focused on Lana, and the things going on in our family as a whole.  However, I have to share with you what the Lord is doing in my life....

Recently, someone called me a hypocrite.  My first instinct was to defend and explain myself.  However, upon reflection of myself and the Cross, I came to realize: I AM a hypocrite.  And not only that - I am worse.  Much worse.  My heart is wretched above all things.  You have no idea how terrible I really am.  I cannot defend myself again that accusation of hypocrisy, or any others.  My only defense is in Christ and the work He did on the cross.  My hypocrisy and sinfulness only make me that much more grateful for the grace and mercy of salvation.  

Although the circumstances that surrounded this situation were painful, it's purely the kindness of God that made something beautiful from it...that led me to repentance in this area, that has revealed to me the depth of my sin of pride.

Obviously my prayer life and Bible study have been focused on this lately.

Today, on the way to the zoo, Dan let me listen to a recent chapel sermon given by Mark Driscoll.  The title is 9 Distinctions between the Gospel and Religion.  I've posted it in the video section, or you can listen here:

http://www.sebts.edu/news-resources/multimedia.aspx?type=chapel&Vid=72

My friends, I could not have been more mortified as I rode in the car with my family and sat under deep conviction.  EVERY. SINGLE. ONE. of the 9 points that Driscoll made applied to me.  I have made religion my gospel.  I have cheapened the power of the work that Christ did on the cross.  Perhaps this is because I was raised in the Bible belt, perhaps it's because my spiritual gifts lend me toward this, but most probably it's simply because I'm a sinner.

After the sermon was over, Dan wanted to listen to another, and I begged him to just let me have a break.  I was literally breathless with how far away I am from the gospel.  Hebrews 12:11 says, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.  Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."  

This is PAINFUL, but I am just so grateful for the kindness of my Father.  Hebrews 12:6 says, "The Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes those He accepts as a son."  

Please listen to this sermon....no matter what your perspective on religion or the gospel, I am certain you will be impacted by it in some way.