90 by 50 update

Well, progress has been a lot slower over the last couple of months. I have lost 19 pounds since I started . . . I had hoped to be 36 pounds lighter by now. But I am at the lowest point since I began and there is much time. I must be more diligent, both in regular exercise and in keeping up with my food diary. I am pleased that I have not gone backwards . . . and I recognize that this is about changing my lifestyle. That's the only way this loss will remain permanent. I'm going to work harder over the next six weeks and see what happens. I need to do this for myself, my family, my ministry . . . and now, I guess, for the world. Check out this article from the New York Times on how obesity contributes to global warming. It's a crazy notion, but the evidence is there. I guess I'm the person your parents warned you about!

Top Chef, Season Two

I'm not a big reality show guy, but one that has captured my attention is Top Chef on Bravo. A dozen up-and-coming chefs compete for a number of prizes including $100,000 in seed money to start their own restaurant. They compete, naturally, by cooking through several challenges. I really enjoyed season one, and was expecting a let down for season two. I've been pleasantly surprised.

The second episode of season two has won me over. The competitors and judges worked through an ethical dilemna. I won't tell you exactly what went on because they are still playing the episode this week. See for yourself. I was impressed by how seriously both contestants and judges treated the dilemna and how they ultimately practiced accountability. I recommend the show, particularly if you are a foodie. Here's a link to the Top Chef website if you are interested in learning more.

"Where do you see God calling us to serve?"

During Sunday's sermon, I gave my congregation a few minutes to reflect on the question, "Where do you see God calling us to serve? The question was in response to Mark 10:35-45, where Jesus teaches his disciples that the way of the kingdom is through service. I asked people to record their thoughts and hand them in to me. Here is a compilation of results:

Abused/neglected children
Benevolence ministries for the needy
Collecting socks for the homeless
College students
Calling on inactive members
Helping people get in touch with spirituality
Inviting people to worship with us
Prayer groups interceding for people in need
Serving people in our community
Serving people in our families
Serving people in our workplaces
Supporting parents--parenting assistance
Teaching evangelism--how to show God's love
Working with youth

There were multiple comments focused on serving our local community, benevolence ministry, and various ways to serve children.

I'm interested in hearing more specific ideas for service. What do the results of this informal survey suggest to you? What is happening in Lockhart and the surrounding area that we can get involved in to serve our community? Where do you see us getting something going as a congregation? Just click "comment" and tell me what you think!