The Year of Living Biblically

If I was asked (which I wasn't) to write a "praise for The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs" I would say this:

"The Year of Living Biblically is a facinating read for any student of religion or curious agnostic. A.J. Jacobs does a splendid job of melting himself into religious faith, while keeping a skeptical (writer's) eye open to report his experiences with more kindness and grace I have experience in my 20 years as a minister in the church. A must read, one of my new favorites!"

All that said, I do recommend you read this book ... I think A.J. gives a great perspective on "us" Christians and people of religious faith that can help us better understand not only ourselves but the people and the world around us.

I found myself laughing out loud about every 5 pages, like belly laughing at his witty comments about various things ... you'll just need to read it to laugh for yourself.

THE GREATEST PART OF THE BOOK

If I read the entire book for only one thing, the thing I found on page 327, then it's worth the read; A.J. Jacobs refers to this thing called "Cafeteria Christianity" ... again, just get the book and read it. But it is very profound and so true.

I hope that by reading The Year of Living Biblically will inspire you to be more gracious towards others and their spiritual journey and more compassionate in our relationship with God.

Order Book Here: The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs

I Get To ...

I was just thinking today how "lucky" or some would say "blessed" I am!

I GET TO ...

... wake up every morning and make breakfast for the coolest kids ever ... mine!
... sleep in a warm bed with a beautiful woman!
... work with friends!
... pastor the greatest church in all the known world!
... serve with the most wonderful people in the galaxy (at least our Galaxy)!
... live in a country where I can worship God freely!
... walk ... see ... hear ... smell...

When I actually begin looking at my life in light of the rest of the world, I have all the reasons in the world to be THANKFUL and GRATEFUL ... and I am!

Hanky Panky Challenge - DAY THREE

It's so much more challenging to "connect everyday with your spouse" when you are so busy! Have you noticed that? Between running kids to practice, science fairs, vocal practice, friends houses, and work ... where do you find the time?

This is why we offer the Hanky Panky Challenge; connecting each and everyday with your spouse isn't going to just happen ... it must be intentional! Something we PLAN, and then EXECUTE!

Here is my two-cents on how to make sure you are connecting each and everyday:

1) REMOVE excess from your day - TV time, facebook time, youtube time, etc. Each of those things are not bad in and of themselves, but when they take away from things that are more important, then it's a problem.

2) REPLACE wasted time with spouse time - Every couple must figure a way that works for them ... we are all different, there is no cookie-cutter approach to building strong relationships. We have a rule at our house; no computer stuff after 7PM ... it's family time from 7PM to 9PM. And we abide by that, then after we tuck the kids in bed we have time to talk (or whatever we want to do!)

3) PUT it in the calendar - put that special "connection" time in your calendar and do not let anything get in the way of that connection.

I hope that helps you ... please do share with us how the Hanky Panky Challenge is going for you and your spouse! God bless and Happy Hanky Panky!

www.hankypankychallenge.com

Hanky Panky Challenge - DAY ONE