Week 3 Pics

Isaiah meeting great-grandpa on his first trip to Oregon...

We think my grandfather enjoyed holding his "Little Ike" (a nickname he invented for Isaiah). Isaiah took to great-grandpa quickly too. Here's a picture of the 4 generations on Julie's side of the family. 

A funny picture for your viewing enjoyment. What do you think he's pondering?

A mighty yawn... (alternate caption: Look mom, no tonsilitis!)

Finally a normal one. He's growing like a weed :)

Isaiah Pictures Week 2

Here's a look at some fun moments from a few weeks ago. I'll post more to get you all up to date by the end of the week.

Our active sleeper (he likes to "talk" and do impressions of both Superman & Frankenstein). We now swaddle him for naps too.... 

It's not easy being (dressed in) green!

Isaiah's first soccer game :)

Showing off the duckie bathrobe & slippers...

A close-up...

Sorry about the delay in posting. We've had some issues connecting to the wireless network that we normally use at our apartment complex's clubhouse the last couple of weeks. However,  we'll be getting our own internet connection at home soon :) Good news for mommy! Thanks for bearing with us.

More Christ-Centered

I began last school year with a firm conviction to exalt God in the classroom rather than myself. Knowing how easy it is to deceive myself, I posted this sign on the back wall, behind where the students sit. "Are you glorifying God… or glorifying yourself".

I recognize that I have not been very successful in pursuing this goal. On year later, I recognize I have been unacceptably self-centered. Therefore in meditating on how I can remedy the situation I have come up with a few resolutions in how I can be more Christ-centered in all the different roles I undertake in life.

As a Teacher

• Don't seek student's praise. My student's can be very encouraging. However, I know that I subtly begin to seek that praise and accept it in my heart. My goal must always remain, helping them realize the Excellencies of Christ. He MUST increase and I MUST decrease.
  

As a Parent

• Don't worry about people's perception of me as a parent. I need to care for Isaiah and respond to him biblically and lovingly.
  

As a Husband

• Be more purposeful about bringing the gospel into conversations with my wife. Instead of simply seeking information about her day, I need to see how the gospel has impacted her day and circumstances.
  

As a Family Member

• Don't worry about family members misunderstanding me, but misunderstanding the gospel.
  

As a Coach

• Don't focus on winning. The primary goal is not winning, unless you are an unbeliever. My goal as a coach is to teach the kids to play in such a way that Christ is honored. I also need to speak and act to parents, coaches, players, and refs in such a way that Christ is honored.
  

As a Minister

• Don't ask how I did. I like to get feedback every time I teach or preach. Welcoming feedback is not a bad thing, but I know that usually ask looking for a pat on the back rather than for suggestions to improve.
  
• Always ask myself in conversations, "How is this person responding to the reality of the Gospel in their life?" I am often distracted at church when talking with other believers. I recognize that I am often burdened with worrying about who else I should be talking to, or how else should a use my time. Interestingly enough, I am not distracted when evangelizing. I think the reason is that I am purposely Christ focused in one and not the other.
  

As a Friend

• Don't serve and encourage my friends with the motive of proving my love for them. Proof is self-centered. Again the focus must be Christ.