Christian Culture?

Since it's completely unrealistic to imagine all Christian denominations merging into one - to attain unity in the Church, what should be the strategy? It seems if we had a Christian culture, that centered around our core beliefs, we could then begin to focus on what we hold in common, bringing about an atmosphere of unity.

We have experienced this very gift of unity whenever we celebrate Sabbath with others. Every Saturday night we begin Sabbath, and close Sabbath every Sunday night. (The Early Church moved observance of Sabbath to Saturday evening instead of Friday evening to distinguish themselves) This observance is something we share with Moses and the other children of Israel. We share this with Peter, Paul, John and the other disciples. It is an observance that unifies us with our history, and can unify us today as God's People.

Gavin has taken the traditional Jewish ceremony and written in aspects of our Christian faith (check out our family webpage for the full liturgy).

We start by lighting the candles. Instead of a Hebrew blessing, the eldest woman quotes Jn. 8:12 "Jesus says...'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

Gavin blesses the children, first boys (when we have company - he always looks forward to blessing the boys:)), and then the girls using the traditional Hebrew blessing - in English. The girls are blessed in the name of Sarah, Rachel, Rebbecca, and Leah who were strong women of the faith, who led their families, along with their husbands, to follow the Lord.

Then we talk through the Gospel, highlighting three areas (Gavin asks the girls a series of questions on each topic which they happily answer):

1. God created the world
2. God saved us from Egypt - we were slaves - passover
3. Jesus set us free - He broke his body and poured out his blood and was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit, the same spirit that lives in God's People.

After a few short remaining blessings, we each go to one another and say "The peace of Sabbath to you" with a hug.

No matter who has been with us, whether it be a soccer mom, an Anglican priest, new believers, catholic background, baptist background, children or adult - every one can relate to this short liturgy. We then dig in and have a great meal together.

We try very hard to make our observance of Sabbath one that is freeing instead of full of law - so we focus on things we'd like to do over the next 24hrs: paint, sketch, read a book, family dance time, etc. Mobile phones are turned off and there is no work done during that time, either. It's freeing and enjoyable - what we believe it is supposed to be. It's also a time to reflect on the reality that all we have is from the Lord, and remind us how greatly we need Him.

I'll talk about what we do to close Sabbath tomorrow.

I'm talking about this, not because I believe it will solve all of our problems and suddenly make a unified Church. I'm talking about this because I believe we can all agree that we have lost our connection back to the Early Church and to each other. Even though we hold certain core beliefs in common, we don't have a culture that supports those beliefs and brings unity. Things like this point us in the right direction.

How would it feel for us Christians, if when we walk into another believers home on Saturday night - in any part of the world - and we know we're going to observe Sabbath because that's "what we do", it's our culture? (it's what our fathers of the faith did, it's what the early church did) It would feel amazing to be able to share such a practice with others that believe what I believe. (btw, it also opens up a peaceful and gracious way to talk about the many things we disagree on - I've seen it happen over and over again.)

It's not a difficult thing. These are small areas we can move in to come a little closer to a unified Christian culture.....

What are some other ways? ...thoughts?

Unity in the Church

This topic is one that has occupied many conversations between Gavin and myself for years. It is a passion of Gavin's. I completely support him in his leadership of our family to pursue this great endeavor. The Lord has certainly gifted him in many areas and given him a vision - which is exciting and very challenging.

I've learned so much from Gavin throughout the years. One of the most fascinating points he has brought to my attention is that when Luther, father of the reformation, died - he died a catholic. Luther never intended a split in the Church. His hope was to reform the Church - capital "C".

The reformation began a trend that has spun out of control today. New denominations are formed so easily with no tie back into the historical Church, the body of believers that span all the way back to the early church. We have forgotten the importance of being unified as a People. There is no Christian culture. We are known more for our hypocritical stance on political issues, and judgmental attitudes toward the world than by our love or even core beliefs.

No one denomination has it all right, clearly. After all, it is made up of a bunch of sinful humans. That being said, however, we do hold some core beliefs.

The Apostle's Creed

I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead.
On the third day He rose again.
He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the Holy Catholic Church,
the communion of Saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. AMEN.

We have these beliefs in common. Isn't everything else up for conversation? Is worship style really worth separating the Church over? What about predestination? Once saved always saved? Sprinkle or dunk? ...........

These are important discussions, true. I don't mean to belittle their relevance, but when compared to our core beliefs, and the value that our Lord had for his Church to be unified, doesn't it seem kind of silly in the end, to be separated over issues outside of these core, fundamental beliefs?

I have studied church history. I have studied the reformation. I have studied the crusades. Granted I am no scholar and have much room to learn, but it seems like, in our post-enlightened era, we should be able to come closer to unity, as a body of believers.

The sacrifices believers made throughout those tumultuous years is astounding. So many martyrs... I do not mean to down play their great passion and sacrifice. Hinds-sight being 20/20 however, couldn't we as the Church take a more sober look at our faith, here in 2008?

The Italian culture is widely known. The Greek culture is widely known. The Muslim culture is widely known. The Jewish culture is widely known. ...how is the Christian culture known?

Random thoughts

Raegan is very responsible and keeps us all on task. She had a friend over for a playdate today. They played board games, made oatmeal cookies - here they were playing with the leapster's. We average one playdate a week, with a friend from school, although we've had several weeks where she has more than one. This is her friend, Seline. They are sweet friends together. Seline has a very sweet heart and is gracious with Reece - doesn't mind her doing everything with them. Raegan is very good to always be sure her sister is involved - friends come and go, but her sister will always be her sister, and she gets that. Raegan is a good friend. She gets a little anxious about trying to juggle all of her friendships, because she doesn't want anyone to feel left out. I think she's doing a great job. She makes us so proud...

Reece is a ray of sunshine. She always has something going on. I would love to get a peak inside of her thoughts. If she doesn't know anyone is watching her she puts on a fabulous show! She loves to sing and has a really nice voice - she actually matches pitch very well. Reece's heart is so caring and nurturing it amazes me. She loves to cuddle and when she hugs, she holds on for a little bit and squeezes. She's a GREAT hugger:) She adores her sisters. She blesses us...

Eliot is a smarty-pants. She loves to "help" me empty the dish washer by climbing into it and throwing whatever she gets her hands on. Elle is very funny. She is also a fighter. She signs 'finished' and 'more', but is very impatient about it, and babbles constantly:) Eliot loves baby dolls and took her first step today, trying to get to one her sister had in her hands. I learned to play the guitar while I was pregnant with her, and NOTHING pleases her more than when we sit around singing and playing our instruments. Her face completely lights up whenever she sees me about to play. She melts us...

I'm thankful and realize how incredibly blessed we are. Praise you, Lord, for your goodness and mercy. You are good!

Happy Valentine's Day

I must say that children certainly redeem Valentine's day for me. We have a lot of fun celebrating "love" day. Every year the girls pick out cards for their daddy and Nick - which never fails to be extremely entertaining! I always let the girls pick out their cards by themselves......hilarious! (We've had some doosies over the years:))
Last night we exchanged presents, had a nice dinner and homemade chocolate heart cakes for dessert. It was a very nice day.

Love to all my dear friends and family.

I've Been Tagged!:)

I was tagged by friend Anna (Homegrown Sunshine). I will tell you the rules:

1. You have to post the rules before you give your answers.

2. You must list one fact about yourself beginning with each letter of your middle name. (If you don't have a middle name, use your maiden name).

3. After you are tagged, you need to update your blog with your middle name and your answers.

4. At the end of your blog post, you need to tag one person for each letter of your middle name. (Be sure to leave them a comment telling them they've been tagged and that they need to read your blog for details).

(I'm very proud to have my mom's name as my middle name)

K - Keep a household of three children, a wonderful husband and surrogate little brother (Nick) rolling with lots of dancing, singing, laughing, playing and enjoying each other.

A - Activist ...I am. I used to feel embarrassed about this aspect of my character, but I've learned to embrace it, finding ways to pass that on to our girls, teaching them to stand up and sacrifice for what they believe in, hopefully in a gracious and loving way...something I'm still working on.

Y - Yapper ...again, I totally am. Though I am much more mellow than my college days, I am still quite the yapper. ...not on the phone, really, but more in social gatherings.

So, let's see...Trish, Becky and Julie...your turn!:)

Things Change

90 years ago a woman could not have visited the polls. Today, four lovely women from my family visited the polls and my wife cast her vote. Things change.

If we want to effect change, let us work. Let us not have the disease that W.B. Yeats describes, where the best lack all conviction and the worst are full of passionate intensity. Let those who believe in the Kingdom of God get to work to build it. Things change.

The People of God in Multi-Cultural Politics

This is Gavin. As the resident theologian in my home, I'll try to help you understand our theological position. Emily could probably explain it better, but I've spent money on a theological education and feel that I should put that investment to use. :) It's so good to connect to you guys. I love the discussion. Emily and I have been talking about you guys and about this discussion all day. I'm glad that we can discuss as thoughtful believers who are seeking to build God's Kingdom. Really, it is so good to connect, Drew, to you and your wife. We pray blessings on your home.

On question #1: In our home, the Holy Scriptures are the supreme authority. We are radically orthodox in our theological positions, which spans from our view on the Church and the Holy Spirit to our view on the Scriptures. In fact, one of our missions is to reclaim the Biblical Narrative (see Hans Frei's Eclipse of the Biblical Narrative) in the Church's thought and culture. Quite literally, I intend to write a book on the subject of that previous sentence. But for now, understand that we are strongly orthodox in our position on the Scriptures.

Let me raise my first point: What are the Scriptures and for whom are they intended?

Are the Scriptures a Theological Handbook or a Systematic Theology?

If the Scriptures are intended to be a theological reference work or a systematic theology, then they fail horribly. For example, the drive of the work of Christ and the theology of the New Testament is to create the Church, the People of God who live under a New Covenant. If the Scriptures were a theological handbook, then why don't we have a clear, cogent ecclesiology (philosophy of Church)? Some may argue that we do, but theologically that is tough to support and by all means, the fruit of Church History does not support that idea. If they are not a theological reference work, what are they?

I believe the Scriptures are first and foremost our genealogy. The heritage of our People is recounted in the Scriptures. When I tell my children stories about Abraham, I describe him as our Great^(n) Grandfather. The Scriptures describe how God has and does interact with His People. The overarching Biblical Narrative is God's redemptive story that begins with Creation, goes through the Fall, to Redemption, to the Church (as His New People) to Re-Creation. Our family tells that story through a Sabbath rite every week. It is the core of the Scriptures and the substance of our identity. But the Scriptures are not about ink and text; they are about flesh and blood. God's desire has always been to incarnate Himself. He demonstrates that in Jesus and when Jesus ascends and the Holy Spirit descends, He incarnates Himself in the Church - the Body of Christ. I say all of that to remind us in this discussion - do not look to proof texts to support your arguments. The Scriptures are not a theological handbook; they are the lens for God's People to live and act.

With that said, Drew, let me put your mind to rest. Our family is anti-abortion. We feel that position coincides with the Biblical narrative. We advocate the sanctity of marriage, for we believe that it tells the story of Christ and His Bride (see Ephesians 6). However, we must keep in mind that the Scriptures are the narrative and the lens of life for God's People - (AND THIS IS A CENTRAL POINT) - The Scriptures ARE FOR GOD'S PEOPLE, not the lens of life for all people.

I'll repeat that - the Scriptures are the narrative and the identity for God's People. Every one in this country does not fall under the umbrella of being one of God's People. This country is a multi-cultural country, not a country of Christian culture. (I even argue that the Church (broadly defined) has lost its Christian culture, but that is another chapter in the book). The largest question is how do Christians, who believe in the Holy Scriptures, bring the culture (the ways of God) to a nation that has forgotten Him? And this gets to the core of this conversation, "Should evangelical Christians legislate the Kingdom of God into effect?"

My answer is unequivocally, unmistakably - NO! If we think that we should legislate our Christian world view into effect, then we have bought into the ways of the world. The Kingdom of God is built on service; in humility; and yes, in weakness. If the Church should legislate the Kingdom of God into effect, then logic should hold that Jesus should have legislated the Kingdom when He was here on earth. In that logic, Jesus should have been a politician, not a homeless rabbi. But that is just it - Jesus changed by gathering followers. He changed by making disciples. And His charge to us was to make disciples.

As Emily mentioned, one of the highest periods of Church growth was during the plagues in Rome, when Christians served, even though it could have cost them their lives. In fact, Constantine reacted to that Church growth by institutionalizing Christianity, which may have turned out to be one of the worst things for our Faith. Christians cannot lose sight that we create change through service and love. It is the essence of the Gospel. The minute we try to gain power by the means of power, we have forgotten the Gospel. Paul would write a scathing letter to us, telling us to remember the Gospel. When we want to effect social change, we have to resort to loving and to making disciples. Any other way, negates the Gospel and that is the core of our identity.

This statement should then beg the question, "Then why, Barack Obama?" We live in a multi-cultural nation. Christians are People of the Scriptures and a People of God's Ways. But when Moses gives God's Law in Exodus 20 and when Jesus (in parallel) gives the New Law in Matthew 5 - 7, that Law is never for the sake of salvation - not even in the Old Testament. Remember, God's People have already been saved from Eqypt before the Law is given. The Law is the rule for how God's People function - EMPHASIS - how GOD'S PEOPLE function. In other words, to legislate our Law (our ways of living and thinking) on people who do not follow God is dangerous and unbiblical. We must welcome people into our fold and DISCIPLE them into the ways of God, not LEGISLATE them into the ways of God. If we try to legislate them into the ways of God, then we KILL the discipleship process. So back to the question, why Barack Obama?

Barack Obama advocates for the freedom of all people. I am passionate about the freedom and equality of all people. Christian love is real when we can demonstrate that we love, no matter if we agree. As Tim Keller argues, Christian love does what Liberalism cannot do - it loves. In other words, Western Liberalism has sought to foster non-confrontational tolerance. But it cannot tolerate intolerance. Christians are to love no matter what - if you are tolerant or intolerant. I want homosexuals to have the freedom to live as homosexuals. I want people to openly advocate what they believe. In other words, I want the way they think and believe out in the open. I want to talk about it. I want the opportunity to love a person who does not advocate what I believe to be the culture and the ways of God. I prefer love and discipleship to legislation. Does legislating our belief upon people who are not our people transform their lives? Does it create disciples? If not, then how can we advocate it?

Rather, I want a society where all can speak freely and where all are treated as equals. We cannot try to legislate a Christian culture; we must advocate an open multi-cultural dialog so that the Kingdom of God can come from transformed lives - NOT from oppressed lives. Barack Obama is trying to restore the rights of the middle class. He's trying to get rid of the lobbyists who control Washington. He's trying to get us on an equal playing field and that's what I want. That is a cultural ethic that we can all agree to, especially Christians. We cannot allow special interest groups to impose their policy on the middle class any longer. If we allow that, the divide between middle class and the upper class will rip our country apart. If that requires more taxes, then tax me! I have been blessed to make a good income, tax me. Don't tax the middle class. Don't give a tax break to the upper 1.0%. Let's give the people an equal playing field and a voice to say what they believe so that we can get to more important things like life and discipleship.

Does "Evangelical" equal "Republican"?

The blog I wrote yesterday stirred up a feeling of sadness and wonder....and a little frustration, about the state of our current "evangelical" community. Why does being "evangelical" also mean "republican", particularly in the south? I know that certainly used to be true for me during my legalistic college days, mainly based on the issue of abortion, and more recently gay marriage.

Christians should, however, be the first ones to defend the rights of those being discriminated against, or even less fortunate. There is a biblical narrative about helping the poor, consistent throughout scripture. There is a biblical narrative about the Holy redeeming the unholy. The current "evangelical" church is good about going to other places, foreign countries, inner cities, etc. for mission opportunities, but what about the everyday needs of our neighbors. What about daily fleshing out the consistent message of Christ? What about the homeless we pass on the street? Where is the "evangelical" church for those people?

Why aren't the greatest known activists Christians? Why aren't Evangelicals known for feeding the hungry, serving the poor, really loving their neighbor, (including the one's they disagree with) instead of being known as a judgmental, hypocritical people? Are these unfair accusations? Or have we just not chosen to love enough? Have we just not chosen to care enough for those around us? Have we just not chosen to put others needs above our own? Have we chosen to judge and divide instead of unify? Is this why the "Christian" people are more unified, and find our identity, in our differences (Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, etc) rather than by our core beliefs?

Have we chosen to oppress rather than redeem?

One of the greatest growths our Christian culture has experienced was after the plagues in Rome. Christians were the ones giving up their lives to serve those dying and afflicted by the plagues. Christians were sacrificing their well being for the well being of those around them...true love. The results were astounding. We are still reaping the benefits of those who choose to take care of the needy rather than save themselves.

BTW, the abortion rate is the lowest it's been since 1974, the year after it was first made legal. This is NOT due to any political or legislative action. Roe vs. Wade is still in the books. I propose it is because hard working volunteers have put themselves out there to educate and love those in need, or have been deceived, or have been irresponsible, or have been abused or raped... The many who have formed women's shelters for the purpose of serving and educating women and girls in need have made the difference. This is how I choose to fight abortion. ...by supporting women's shelters that lovingly educate rather than judge, almost all of which are Christian-based...doing exactly what the church should be doing - it's great! This is a great example of the Holy redeeming the unholy.

Politics and legislation can not teach morality or educate our children on how to make good choices. That is the responsibility of our families and our churches.

Let me address gay marriage for a moment (I realize the depth of this subject and the difficulty in discussing it, but here I go): I've struggled with this a lot. As a Christian I oppose gay marriage. Marriage is an institution of the church. As an AMERICAN I support civil unions. Unions are not an institution of the church and yet give the basic rights that married couples are afforded.

According to Answers.com:
Civil Union is a ceremony between same-sex persons which conveys to them certain aspects of marriage for purposes of that state's laws (but not those of other states or the federal government). Rights are conferred in respect of property and probate law, adoption, insurance, hospital visitation, and wrongful death actions as well as insurance and state income tax laws.

I don't agree with the gay lifestyle - but if I believe that everyone is created equal and therefore must be given equal rights...how can I deny these basic rights to any American? If we deny rights, through legislation, because it fundamentally goes against what we believe, then we are treading on some very thin ice concerning our future rights. We MUST protect the rights of all Americans, including those we don't agree with to ensure our rights will be protected, as well.

We must approach this issue, as Christians, outside of the political realm, and choose to love those we disagree with; we must ACCEPT those we disagree with. The Holy Spirit is the only one that can change a sexual preference, not a legislation or judgmental rhetoric. Our doors need to be open to our neighbors, regardless of sexual preference. We must stop trying to oppress and discriminate against our gay brothers and sisters.

When we close Sabbath every Sunday night, part of the ceremony is lighting the braided candle (the Havdalah, pictured above) which represents the separation of the Holy and the common (or unholy). We talk about how the Holy is not meant to oppress or look down on the common, rather it is meant to redeem the common. We have not been set apart, as the people of God, to look down on, judge, or oppress the gay community, we have been set apart to redeem the gay community. We can not do that through discriminating legislation.

So, I guess I'm left with the question, again, why does "evangelical" equal "republican"? Is overturning the abortion law and denying American citizens basic rights really more important than meeting the needs of the poor, protecting the rights of every American and therefore protecting our freedom. Is that more important than providing an affordable health care to so many without, who are dying every day because they can't get help? Where are the Evangelical activists standing up and fighting for the rights of the poor, homeless, sick, and needy? Where is the redemption in this sort of philosophy or politic?

I would love to see a swing in thought....that "evangelical" equals "educated voter" in the realm of politics. I believe Obama can make that transition easier for anyone who will take the time to educate themselves on the issues, rather than listen to whatever the news media (namely Fox news) propagates.

I put these questions out there to my fellow evangelicals because I do believe we can change. We can be the instruments God uses to redeem the common. For my brothers and sisters, whom I love, I ask....am I wrong? Am I totally off base?

Why I am Voting for Obama

I recently read a blog that stated: "In my opinion, I do not see how anyone striving to live their life under the authority of biblical principles could vote for Mr. Obama."

Needless to say, I was taken aback by this statement, mainly because I like the person that wrote these words. (this doesn't make me think less of her, just surprised to be reminded this is how so many think) I normally would dismiss this kind of statement, but because I like this person I decided to answer.

Let me be clear about where I stand: I voted for G.W. Bush in both elections because I thought he was a better choice than Gore or Kerry. I still like him, though I think we can all agree, he's made some pretty big mistakes, including the WAY he went into Iraq and his recent disregard to the Constitution. I am Pro-Life, regarding abortion, as well as, opposing the death penalty. ...and yet, I will be voting for Obama because I believe he is the best choice for our country and our future.

The author of the statement above also stated that when Democratic supporters of Obama were asked why they would vote for Obama, they gave no other reason than he was a great speaker. If I had to guess, I would say that report was given on a Fox news channel.... Well, there really are too many to list in this forum, but here are my top reasons for voting for Obama:

1. He brings unity rather than divisiveness - no other candidate can touch this. He has an amazing ability to unify those around him - the many Republican leaders joining his campaign, as a small example.

2. His policy for college loans (4k per year) in exchange for social service after graduation in areas like the peace corps, volunteering in homeless shelters, etc. This is much like our current nursing school programs, and teaching scholarships (4 yrs of school for 4 yrs of service - loosely speaking). This has unprecedented ramifications that excite me more than anything I've heard in while. ..more are able to have higher education, frees young 20's from the overwhelming debt of school loans, gives life experience to upcoming generations that allow them to understand the world is bigger than they realized, it does not revolve around them, and bestows a level of humility and care for those around them that can not be taught in a class room...to name a few.

3. His health care policy is NOT mandatory, rather he seeks to present an affordable health care option for ALL Americans (Universal) by bringing Congress together and not bowing to the powerful lobbyists - for the first time!!! (a completely different approach than Hillary is suggesting and obviously different than anything the Republican party suggests because they are all heavily funded by lobbyists)

4. He cares deeply about the environment. His vision for creating new jobs in the GREEN industry while freeing us from dependence on oil is revolutionary. I love his ideas in this area - you can find out more on his website: www.barackobama.com

5. He favors reversing tax cuts for the richest 1%, while making tax cuts for the middle class, those who truly need it, more meaningful and permanent.

6. He understands the real problem of "two Americas" John Edwards has spoken about for years (the enormous gap between wealth and poverty), and has experienced this reality giving him the desire and a vision to change the future for our children.

7. He understands that one man, one position, even the highest position in the country, can not change this world alone. But if one man can inspire a nation, this world can change on a dime. He has already inspired the people of America so much that we've had record numbers turn out to the primary polls. It's not because he's black - we've had black officials run for the presidency for years. Obama is an inspiration and he realizes the power of an inspired people, and what can be accomplished.

8. He does not offer "false hope". He offers a hope that WE can make this world a better place. He also brings hope to people all over the world and will make a significant difference in repairing our reputation around the world and our foreign policy.

9. He does not suggest the government do all the work while people sit back and take advantage of governmental aid (as suggested by Fox news reporters and the close-minded right wing), rather he demands that we all stand up, rise up, move to make a difference, to change this world, to be active in whatever it is we can be active in for a better tomorrow, while we help those who need it along the way.

10. Obama is a Christian who has attended, and been active in, the same church for over 20 years. He shares the values I believe are consistent with biblical principals and yet understands that we are a nation full of diverse cultures and beliefs that must be free to express those cultures and beliefs as long as they do not violate any other persons rights.

I think the fundamental question is: Do we live in a Christian nation and everyone else here is just visiting? or Are we a Christin people living in a diverse nation full of different cultures and beliefs? If the later is true, which I believe it is, than we must elect officials that best give us the freedoms we need to live out our Christian beliefs. Jesus came to set us free from the law, not oppress us.

The idea that we need to legislate moral issues is the opposite of what Christ came to do. Legislation and Politics have not effected the decline in abortions (lowest since 1974), God's love through His people have. Legislation and Politics will not change a person's sexual preference, but God's love through His people may make a difference. The Republicans offer oppression and a more individualistic politic, while Obama offers equal rights for ALL Americans (protecting us as Christians and our practices included), support for those in need, encourages all people to work together and be united, and offers hope to many who have lost hope that they can make any difference, lost the hope to dream for greater things, lost the hope for a better world.

We must have lawmakers that understand the importance of us all being created equal. Lawmakers that will ensure the same freedoms to EVERY American, for our own good, as Christians. We must have lawmakers that understand that we all have the right to the pursuit of happiness, even for those we fundamentally disagree with. If we revoke these rights to anyone in America, we threaten our own freedoms. Christianity is not a legislation and should never be. Politics and Legislations must serve the purpose of keeping everyone's rights in tact, so that we as Christians have the right to build the kingdom of God without restraint.

I'm proud to support Obama not only with my vote, but with my voice, finances and time. I hope you'll take a second, objective look at Obama if you don't already support him and his campaign. I don't think you'll be disappointed. www.barackobama.com He's much more than a charming smile and inspirational speaker...those are just icing on the cake:)

I Shook Obama's Hand!!

Today Raegan, Reece, Gavin, Nick and myself all went to a rally to hear Sen. Obama speak. We've followed this campaign very closely, watching the speeches, staying up late to see the final results on the primaries and caucuses, but this was the first chance we've had to be in the same room with Sen. Obama. We were so excited!

As we arrived, we were very happy to see him driving up to TC Williams high school in Alexandria, VA ("Remember the Titans" movie was based on this high school). He looked out his window, waving, and flashed his very charming smile. It was a ticketed (but free) event, but that didn't stop many more from showing up trying to get in to see him. Over 3000 tickets were given out, but I have no idea how many were actually there.

We ended up in the overflow room - which was a disappointment at first. As we listened, over speakers, to the introductory speakers talk about why they were supporting Obama secret service men started entering our room - then reporters with boom mics......then...Sen. Barack Obama came into the auditorium!!!! He spoke to us for a few minutes, apologizing that we couldn't all fit in the gymnasium..then he came down and shook the hands of those at the front...which I was, of course, one of. I was holding Reece and she was amazed with all that was happening. Gavin had Rae on his shoulders right behind me. (Rae was disappointed that she didn't get to touch him.)

We talk to Raegan and Reece a lot about what a historic moment this is, and how amazing it is that they were able to come today and hear this new figure of hope speak. They were both cheering for Obama. They were so proud to be there with us and to see Obama in person.

We had a babysitter at home with Elle and decided, once Obama went back into the gymnasium, that we had better head on (it took us about an hour and a half to get there). We ended up being SO blessed to be in the overflow room. We got to be in the same room with him, hear him speak for a moment, shake his hand and see his charming smile up close....and still get home before the babysitter needed to leave:) God is so good.

Gavin and I are so proud to be supporting Barack Obama. We spoke about the blessing of supporting him the whole way home. We really believe in what he stands for. We believe the division of our country is dangerous and we are hopeful that he will bring the unity we are all so hungry for.

Here are a few pics to enjoy:) YES WE CAN! YES WE CAN! YES WE CAN!!

Our Very Own Groundhog

Gavin's birthday is on Groundhog's day. This blog entry is in celebration of his 32 years of life. I asked the girls what they thought about their daddy and this is what they had to say.

Raegan: I'm thankful that he's my daddy because he's a great daddy. He takes care of me by picking me up when I fall and he cuddles me. He tickles me and he loves me. He's very handsome. He's cute as a bunny. Daddy's funny.

Reece: Dear daddy, I hope you feel better. I really, really hope you feel better. I love when daddy tickles me. Daddy goes to his office and works. He is so handsome. I love when daddy picks me up from school....just daddy. He drinks coffee. I love drinking coffee with him.

Gavin is an excellent father. I knew he would be a wonderful father when I met him in college - when we were just friends. We used to have "gatherings" at our sunday school teacher's home, with his wonderful family. (The Critcher family consisted of Roger and Denise, and their four children: three girls and one boy. We learned a lot about being the kind of family we wanted to be from them.) Gavin was always so great with the children.

I, and our girls, are so blessed to have him as their daddy. He plays with them, dances with them, teaches them, takes them on dates, listens to them. He's amazing. I always knew he would be an amazing dad, but he has exceeded my expectations.

Gavin is a wonderful husband. We've learned a lot over the past 10 years. Even last night I was reminded how far we've come, by his leadership, as a couple. I always hoped we would have a great marriage, and he has exceeded my expectations.

Gavin is the most fascinating person I've ever met. He's smart, savvy, can play pretty much anything once he hears it. He's classically trained and also plays the piano by ear. He's my personal accompanist, and I couldn't ask for a better one. He's deceptively athletic. (He kicks butt and takes names on the basketball court:)) He enjoys talking about anything from sports to theology. Gavin is a very talented writer, also. He enjoys art in it's many forms, and encourages me in my endeavors to be artistic...I've never known anyone like him.

One of the best things about Gavin, for me, is that he recognizes my strength and enjoys it. Instead of being threatened by my drive and determination, he sees it as one of his strengths, as well. That is a treasure!

We've come a long way together. We were married the summer before our senior year in college. We were too young to understand the gravity of our decision, but the Lord was gracious enough to see us through some tough years, bringing us out stronger on the other end. We were both very strong and passionate. We still are, but the Lord has been gracious enough to temper this passion and strength with wisdom and humility along the way. Though the praise and glory belongs to our gracious and faithful Lord, it is also because of Gavin's obedience and leadership that our family is able to have this testimony.

We still have a long way to go in this journey of faith and growth, but Gavin has earned my trust, that he will do everything in his power to be sure that we follow, and do, whatever God calls us to do, and go wherever God calls us to go - that we will seek first the Kingdom of God and trust in Him to provide everything else.

I always dreamed to marry someone who would be a spiritual leader for my family, and Gavin has exceeded my expectations.

From the first time I met Gavin, I knew he was special. I knew he would do great things. I knew it was a special thing to know him and call him my friend. I never dreamed of calling him my husband, during our years of friendship. I am blessed to be his cheerleader, friend, encourager, fellow comedian, dance partner, lover, partner in this journey.

Gavin, I always knew you were special....you continue to exceed my expectations. I love you! Happy Birthday.

Yes, We Can...part 2