Waiting for Arrivals

Why does a story about Jesus start with his cousin John? Its a question that has always followed me... why is the story of John the Baptist so important in the story of Jesus?

The opening of Luke may provide a clue... when Zechariah goes into the temple and his prayer is heard, he begins a time of silent waiting. Waiting for the arrival of his son, which is an act against all odds. Israel is in a time of waiting too, for the messiah. And the time of waiting grows short as the arrival draws near.

Welcome to Advent - the wait for an arrival.

10 Years Today

Today Jenny and I have been married for 10 years! Looking back I thought that it would be easier, honestly. Though it hasn't been easy it has been worth it. When we made vows to each other, I didn't pay much attention to the words. It wasn't until later, when it was harder and the wonder of it all had worn into a daily routine, that I started thinking about what our vows were, and what they meant.

I take you to have and to hold,

to love and to cherish,
for richer or poorer,
in sickness and in health,
for better or for worse,
until death do us part.

These were just words at the ceremony, but I realize that they are impossible words. Words that commit me to something I'm unable to live out. There hasn't actually been a day that I've really lived out a full cherishing, or that I've been unflinchingly loving. But somehow this hasn't broken my vows, because even when I haven't been doing my best, I've still intended to, and somehow that counts too.

So, here's to Jenny, my bride and my love. And here's to many more decade celebrations of our marriage!

Looking More Like Alastair

A good friend, Alastair Rundle (pictured with Zoe his daughter) has been undergoing treatment for Lymphoma. He's an amazing man: father of two, fantastic husband, fun loving, and just recently relocated to Los Angeles to work with the InnerCHANGE team.


I wanted to keep up with his hair style, so I joined him in his domed glory. Jenny isn't sure she likes it so much, but I'm loving it. Anyway, here's a shout out to read up on his blog and be praying for my friend Alastair.

Celebrating Marriage in the Dominican Republic!

This November will be 10 years for Jenny and I, so to celebrate we headed down to the Dominican Republic for 10 days - no kids, no work, no dishes, no making beds! We had a super great time, and recommend the DR for anyone that's looking for a good vacation place.

Highlights from the Trip:

• Speaking spanish
  
• Being introduced to Bachata Music
• Tim's smash karaoke hit "Heartbreak Hotel"
• Cayo Levantado - a tiny island with a 5 star resort
• Showing up to the 5 star resort in the back of a pickup that's used for public transportation.
  
• Kayaking all the way around Cayo Levantado
• Snorkeling and finding two live conches
• Being married to each other
  

Check out the photos