MENS GROUP @ 529 W PUEBLO #4 THIS MONDAY @ 6:45PM.... SPECIAL MEN AND WOMEN PRE-ELECTION SPECIAL.... WHY?? BECAUSE VOTING MATTERS SO LETS TALK...

We are faced with daily decisions.... Some of the outcomes of our choices have consequences.... We need to carefully chose, not just whimsically decide on a name or team color. This November 4th, you should be ready. Lets prepare together...I could say "vote or die," like Ditty said, but thats not really true and I try not to repeat him. I could say "rock the vote," but that makes voting sound like a baby that needs to be put to sleep. Maybe "get out the vote" is a good slogan, except, what does that even mean? So without any cool slogan let me put it to you like this; We are blessed to get an opportunity to vote, therefore lets talk about the issues and know how to approach our choices. Lets talk about options, people, issues, and help eachother vote responsibly. Many of us follow politics, some don't, but we all need to vote for the best choice for the best reasons and sometimes thats hard to decipher in this world of info. So this Monday night we will talk, and pray together. All are welcome, bring snacks if you want and bring a parent or friend. PS if you have time, read over your voter sample ballots ahead of time.

Listenupmen Bowling and Galaga High Score Setting Bash

Hello Men,


I am posting the results of the first ever Listen Up Men Bowling and Galaga High Score Setting Bash. When Tarik texted that he was sick a few of the guys who needed the fellowship and could not last another week, LOL!!!, got together on monday night for some bowling fun. Here are the results:



If you are wondering why Devin's score is so low it is because he is a terrible player!!! Not really, he had actully cut his fingers on his right hand and therefore had to bowl left handed.

So why the weird galaga part in the title. Well if you are unfamiliar with this game click ont the title and it will take you to a page explaining it. We got to the bowling ally early and had to waite about 2 hours before we could bowl. So we decided to play this ancient arcade game called Galaga. As we were playing it we decided it would be a great accomplishment for us to beat the high score. So about 45 minutes and 2 dollars later we set a new high score on the Machine at 362,680 pts. shattering the old record by over 100,000 points.

In any case we missed ya'll last week and look forward to hanging out on Monday. Have a good weekend!

-N

Jesus is a friend of mine

Thank Men for all Your Prayers and Support!!!

Free At Last! Free At Last!!! Hello Men. I got out Saturday night at 12:01 in the morning. Don came and picked me up. I want to take a moment and thank you from the Bottom my Heart. I could not of done this without your Prayers and support. From the day I arrived to the day I left I Knew the Lord was there to protect me. Not once did I feel threatened or uncomfortable, Just inconvenienced due to my dismay. I want to Personally thank the Men that coordinated and drove me. Jeff,Tarik,Mike,Matt,Rick,Luke,Erick,Rich,Don and Bart. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to drive me back and forth. I don't know how to ever repay you. For the rides it was a wonderful time of fellowship,creating new friendships and spending time together in prayer. I look forward to Mondays Men's Group and the Lord continually working threw my life. God Bless You all.

Frank

San Francisco

Need I say more?

tarik

You won't believe this...or maybe you will. Be Praying for our State...

I think this is one of the 10 plagues...

So here's my fun staff infection! Not as bad as it looks...just like a big zit! Have a great men's time tonight if I don't see you all. Peace and Love-

Devin

2008 Mens Camping Trip

Wow, we had fun. The Camping trip was awesome! Cowboy coffee, woofle ball, waterfalls, fruit launcher, torn clothing, tri tip, beans, hamburgers, hiking, tarp hanging, tree climbing, frisbee, football, rain, shine, guitar, and much more. Thanks to everyone who brought stuff and helped plan it. Thanks to all that just came and shared in the fun. I know we ALL were blessed with some sweet fellowship and we all grew closer to eachother. Can't wait to do it again.

Hockey Night

Listenupmen went to the first Los Angeles Kings Hockey game this year. It was fun, there were many fights, not many fans, lots of dangerous food, and as always great fellowship!!!

Listenup Camping Trip this weekend!!!

Gentlemen, as many of you know we will be camping this weekend around Ojai and coming back for the Avocado festival service... This is gonna be buckets of fun and fellowship.. Any and All are welcome.. Have a buddy you want to bring, do it. Call me Taylor at 805-455-4122 or Neil at 925-980-2475 if you have any questions. If you can't make it the whole time that too is fine. Grace us with your presence however you can.. If you don't make it..... Bummer for you. Remember, don't be a mooch and bring some food or somthin' Hope to see you and yours there!!!! TG

Driving Frank Flores

Men:
Get some treasure in heaven and don't be broke when you get there. Drive Frank Flores to and from work and bear one another's burdens.

Here's the details:
Frank needs your help driving him to and from work for the next 19 days. It's a 51 mile trip each way from Camarillo to Goleta.

Frank has a Ford Escort that's available for use depending on where it's left. Currently, it's in Goleta. Frank is also covering any expenses associated with the drive if you choose to use your own vehicle.

Log on to the schedule to view available shifts and make your selection. Make sure to fill in your contact info into the schedule.

If you have any questions please contact Jeff Cox (797-0928) or Tarik Elansary (452-1083).

...constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father,...

--1 Thess 1:3

Bros

It was so good to see you guys on Saturday night. I believe that is just a foreshadowing of what it is going to be like when we all hit Heaven. God bless keith

Reasoning daily in the Scriptures (cont'd...)

Men:
Here's the email response from my doctor friend Robin in Colorado. You may want to re-read my original post again and you will note that she does not offer any rebuttal to my questions regarding the reconciliation of evolutionary thinking and the laws of thermodynamics. Instead, she throws a whole lot of junk about the Bible Jesus and the disciples that's completely unsubstantiated. My reply follows.

How would you respond?

But before you read on, Word up. Get wisdom and understanding. Buy the Truth. Here's what King Solomon said:

Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise,And apply your heart to my knowledge;
For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; let them all be fixed upon your lips, so that your trust may be in the Lord; I have instructed you today, even you. Have I not written to you excellent things of counsels and knowledge, that I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth, that you may answer words of truth to those who send to you?--Proverbs 22:17-21

Love u guys,
tarik

Hi Tarik-
Most doctors do believe in evolution. You stated that one of us is wrong. Why is that? Could it be that neither of us is right or wrong? Does it really matter? I'm entitled to my views as you are yours. We have both formed our view points based on our unique life experiences.

I prefer not to judge. Evolution and the belief in G-d are not exclusionary. I know the church will tell you so as a scare tactic, but you can believe in BOTH G-d AND evolution and still be a spiritual and loving soul.

The only thing I care about is leaving this earth a better place. I believe in love. I don't believe in judging people. Differences in opinion are what make this earth an interesting and better place to live. I believe that if two people are inlove, it doesn't matter what sex they are, or what the color of their skin is.

I would rather base my opinion on what they do in their lifetime for others and to benefit humanity as a whole than who they choose to love and who they chose to worship if they choose to worship at all. I would rather not spend my time passing judgement on people. I would rather accept everyone for who they are- differences are beautiful and they make the world a unique place. I believe a woman has the right to do what she wants with her own body, just as you have the right to do what you want with your own body.

You speak of the bible, but there are many sources people turn to, the koran, the old testament, the new testament, scientific journals etc, etc. The interesting thing about the bible is that it was written hundreds and hundreds of years after Jesus died by people just like you and me. The men who wrote the bible had never met Jesus nor had they had even met anyone even remotely related to Jesus. The third most popular religion in the world is atheism- or not even believing in G-d.

None of us know who is right or wrong, and maybe all of us are wrong in what our "beliefs" are. But does that really matter anyways? To me, it matters what we do each and every day to make the world a better place to live in. And for me that is accepting everyone and trying to help those less fortunate than me. Perhaps your views are different, and I accept them b/c I don't know any better than you, and you don't know any better than me. But I am not going to force my perpective on you, as I would hope you would not force your perspective on me. This is not Nazi germany where differences are persecuted.

Religion is supposed to be INCLUSIVE rather than EXCLUSIVE, and when it becomes about being who is right and who is wrong than it defeats the entire purpose of religion, because judgement is the basis of righteouseness and hatred, and that is what starts hatred and killings. Every war we have had has been based on religion and supposed "differences".

Sorry for being so long winded, but no one really knows, and our time is much better spent on helping people than trying to figure out who is "right" or who is "wrong", b/c there is a good possiblity we are all wrong. Actions are much more important than words anyways.
Much love-
Robin

“You stated that one of us is wrong. Why is that? Could it be that neither of us is right or wrong? Does it really matter?”

Robin:
If you believe in relativism then both of us can be right. However, I believe in absolute truth. You asked whether it really matters; I say yes it does, but apparently it doesn’t really matter to you.

You did not offer any rebuttal to my points about the laws of thermodynamics which contradict evolution. I was more interested in learning why you believe what you believe.

I’d be happy to pick up our discussion anytime you like. Jesus loves you and so do I.

tarik

2nd ANNUAL LISTEN UP! MENS RETREAT

Gentlemen and Gentlemen,

It is the final stretch before we leave for the second annual Listen Up Men's Camping Trip. The dates are Friday Oct. 3- Sunday Oct.5. We are going to be going to Wheeler Gorge in the Ojai valley. To check it out go to http://www.rockymountainrec.com/camp/padres-wheeler-gorge.htm. I hope to see you all there.

Arrival and departure details will be provided next Monday.

THIS COULD BE YOU SLAMMING TAYLOR IF YOU COME!!!



N.

Men's Group Hockey Night - LA Kings vs Phoenix Coyotes

MEN:
We will not be meeting this Monday Night, September 22nd...instead, we will be attending the LA Kings vs Phoenix Coyotes hockey game at The Staples Center (in Jesus name, of course) to find out how men fight on skates while chasing a puck traveling in excess of 100mph at times.

We have 6 extra tickets. First ones to contact Taylor (805-455-4122) get to go. We will leave SB at 4pm and drive down to the Staples Center. The game starts at 7:30. Looking forward to hanging with you guys. Much love.
tarik

Check Yourself

Gentlemen,
I know that Listen Up groups have spread far and wide, and that many of you might not know me. I'm just a small part of what Jesus has done with the Coastlands of Southern California, but I wanted to share this article with you all.

1 John 2:6...you guys know what that is right? Isn't it our group verse? "Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.-(NLT)" Below is an article from an Atheist writer in the UK calling this truth out, and the sad fact that many of our "brothers and sisters", including ourselves, are not truly living out the faith we claim to have in Jesus.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article4761159.ece

Honestly, reading this pissed me off. It made me angry and I wanted to write back telling this guy he didn't have any idea what Christianity is about. But after testing some of what he said in prayer, the Holy Spirit showed me that some of what he said rings true in my heart. Conviction and growth can come from some of the most unlikely places, but that's our God. You never know what He's going to do. So instead of get pissed and "sin in my anger", I'm posting this because I love you all, whether I know you or not. If you follow Jesus, you're my brother. Let's check our hearts men and make sure we aren't giving anyone the opportunity to say our faith isn't expressed in the lives we lead. There's a battle going on. Are we living like it?

- Kyle

Moral Relativism....

This is an AWESOME (yet extremely boring on a visual level) video on Moral Relativism by an apologist named Greg Koukl. It's an hour-long video, but it's SO worth watching in this "morally-relative" age. Watch it! I know you'll be blessed by it. Forget about the new episode of 90210 and feed your brain instead! If you haven't heard the term before I promise you that you will soon, like probably tomorrow. Anyway, without further ado...let's see if this works...

Photo Shoot with Dominic Balli

Hey Guys,
The Santa Barbara Independent is doing a photo shoot for Dom at:
Soho 1221 State St
TODAY between 4:45 and 5:30 today and has invited anyone who can make it to come and get "discovered" as America's next Top Model. Nah, just kidding! But show up if u can cause the more people the better.

See you tonight!

http://www.independent.com/news/2008/aug/21/dominic-balli/

Peace.
tarik

MENS RETREAT OCTOBER 3rd-5th

Possible Men's Retreat Location scheduled for weekend of October 3-5th. Give me a shout out what you think.

http://www.rockymountainrec.com/camp/padres-wheeler-gorge.htm
or
http://www.rockymountainrec.com/camp/padres-holiday.htm

Neil

Follow His Lead

Guys, scroll down and read Tarik's post before you read this. That being said, I had a nice political talk with someone I work with. To make a long story short, the whole conversation came down to two things we talk about AALLLL the time at mens group... Perception and Perspective. She said that she doesn't view the world as I do. She's not living in expectation of the "rapture". She thinks Christians are just like another group of people and she is best served by letting everyone do their thing and just being nothing. She says she's a Christian, wears a cross, and a peace sign around her neck. She is voting for Obama because she thinks McCain will go to war and Obama won't. (Even though only one candidate really knows the horror of war and said he hates it... But she doesn't believe him. ((Willingly ignorant)). Her perspective is that war CAN be avoided and PEACE is possible. She does not think we should protect Israel and does think that I have a skewed view of Islam when I say its NOT a peaceful religion................ Well............
The reason I write all this is because I really look forward to our next conversation. I have been faced with the fact that heres an acquaintance who is wrong in her world view. Maybe she was put into my life to show her that there is only One way. I will only be able to tell her. That I believe is my duty. The Good Lord will do the rest. My heart broke when I heard her say some of the things she told me. She like many, think Christians are crazy.. Maybe thats because we have avoided the one on one, mono y mono conversations with those whom we clearly see have lost their way. TG

Reasoning daily in the Scriptures...

Men,

It's been too long since I've made a post but this one will make up for it (at least in length!) Before you read this know that you will also be faced with the same situation soon...there is no way out of it other than to communicate your belief in a way that will encourage others to reconsider their position. Scatter the seed and let the Lord do the watering and provide the growth. Jesus said, "The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves."--Luke 10:2

So here's the background: I've recently reconnected with many old high school friends on Facebook. One of them in particular is a doctor in Colorado who's name is Robin. She made a comment regarding Sarah Palin...here it is:

"Robin just learned that sarah palin believes in teaching creationism in public schools- i feel like we are going backwards in time instead of forwards..."

My response (Tarik): So where do you think we came from? Just curious...

Her reply (Robin): Hi Tarik-
I'm a doctor, and like all doctors and scientists, we believe in studies and facts. Therefore, I believe firmly and without a doubt in evolution, based on the 100's of years of scientific research, based on 100's of books I have read, as well as the dissection of human bodies and animals bodies. (both dead of course- I don't value certain lives over others) I'm sure you knew the answer to this before you asked, as most people in the world believe in evolution, so just curious why did you ask?

My reply (Tarik):
Hi Robin!

Thanks for your email. To answer your question, I was asking because I was genuinely curious to know exactly what you believe. I believe there are many things we could agree upon and likewise many things we would disagree. With that said, I assume we are both seeking truth.

I’m sure that you would agree with me there are many different world views (i.e. Biblical, evolutionary, etc…) to subscribe to in the world today. I did not know you are a doctor but I believe it would be an inaccurate statement to say, “…all doctors and scientists…and most people in the world believe in evolution.” Certainly, there are many doctors and scientists who believe that we are created by God. I’m not in the medical community but I know of many who share this belief—I’m sure you also know of some as well.

But even if the entire medical and scientific community did believe in evolution, it still doesn’t make it true or “fact” as many textbooks and journals state. At one point in history, the general consensus of many scientists believed the Earth was flat—and they were wrong. Scientific theory originates from or is supported by observations in the natural world, or by experimental evidence. It is a systematic and formalized expression of all previous observations, and is predictive, logical, and testable. To that end, evolution has never been “observed”, “tested” and is certainly not “fact.”

You stated, “I believe firmly and without a doubt in evolution…” Really?! Without a doubt?! As a doctor, you must have studied the laws of thermodynamics. Law #1: Matter cannot be created or destroyed. How does this fit with an evolutionary world view? Law #2: Law of entropy (i.e. order to disorder or chaos) Many scientists believe the universe is coming undone or “winding down.” The theory of evolution requires just as much faith (in my opinion, even more) than to believe that creation speaks of a Creator. These 2 points alone warrant “doubt” into the minds of an evolutionary thinker.

Unfortunately, one of us is wrong. You mentioned that you’ve read “100’s of books and rely upon 100’s of years of scientific research.” I’ve also read many books but rely on one in particular, namely the Bible which dates back approximately 6,000 years ago. I have discovered numerous historical and scientific claims the Bible makes which are supported by archeological finds, actual places that are still in existence today, even governmental records from the neighboring kingdoms that surrounded Jerusalem throughout history that support Biblical accounts.

I don’t want to take up anymore of your time as I know how busy life can be. But I am interested in understanding the basis for your conclusions. I believe that our destiny is ultimately shaped by two things: 1. How we view life - (i.e. Where did we come from? Where are we going when we die? What’s my purpose in life?); and, 2. How we respond to it – (i.e. Where do you turn to in times of trouble? Why do good things happen to bad people? Why is there suffering in the world?) I don’t know the answers to life’s problems but I sure do know the One who does. And that’s who & what I rely upon.

Much love,
tarik

Finishing Strong

Hey Guys!

It is another monday morning. We are finishing up the listen up men's week and i wanted to encourage everyone to stay strong today and put Jesus as the King of your Life!!! I hope you all had a good week and look forward to seeing you all tonight. Tarik will be bringing the word tonight so make sure you have your hearts ready and dont forget to leave your masks at the door.

God Bless brothers,
n

Prayer

Hey guys, Ben McKinsey called me and asked specifically for the guys to pray for his family. He has two brothers and a sister. His parents are going through some very tough times relationally. Divorce is the issue and all that comes with that. Please pray that his parents will listen to the Lords guidance. Also, be praying for Ben in this time that he would be able to give Godly counsel and Wisdom to his loved ones. And of course keep his wife and their baby Courtney and their health in prayer. TG

Love In Action Asia/Hangtown Prophets

Hey Doooooods!

As some of you are aware, I have a friend(Chris) who visited the group promoting his band, Hangtown Prophets. His band has made a CD and made it for sale with all profits going to www.loveinactionasia.com. You can go to his MYSPACE page to read about his mission to help the kids in Asia. Give it a listen, he is a great guitarist and Christian. I think he was looking to sell the CD's for about $13 but, if we get a few ordered I think we can bring that down a little. I hope ya'll like it! Or just send him money, that's OK too...

Ruben

Wedding Coming Up

Bros,
I hope this day is finding you happy, healthy and fighting like we're in a battle. I just wanted to quickly ask you guys to keep Brittney and I in your prayers as we are getting married next Sunday (August 10). We have learned so much in this engagement season, and although it has been the hardest time in either one of our lives, the Lord has proven good and true once again.

He has brought us closer together and tested us in the fires like never before. Please pray that we would continue to seek the Lord before all else - even each other. Also, that we would pursue and press into each other and dig in for a long, enduring race. But the greatest thing in the world is that we get to do it together now!

I'm so stoked to be getting married, and I will be thinking of all of the Goleta/SB boys throughout the day. Put up a post or email me (kcrooks8@hotmail.com) and let me know how you all are and how I can be praying for you. I love you guys and hope to see you sometime in the future. Peace to the brothers and death to Satan. Later on men.

Kyle

Listenup SYV (that's Santa Ynez Valley)

Bros, it was so good to see some of you today at Reality. It was like having a family reunion, actually for me it is my family reunion. As for Listen up SYV, I have opened my house to men who want to grow closer to the Lord, so far it has been me and one other. We did have three one night  and one night I just prayed by myself. However when I feel like giving it up someone will ask about it, so I will keep keeping on. I feel like it is just a faith and trust issue between me and God. So pray for us brothers from the South that the Lord will bring the men He wants to knit together with us to walk as Jesus walked. Love you guys. God Bless.

Greetings from Thailand!

Hey Guys!

Just in case you don't read this post in its entirety, definitely go to www.thaiunit.com for pictures, videos and all updates of our trip. That said, its 10am on Friday in Thailand, which makes it about a week since we arrived. I cannot believe how fast our time has gone. Nevertheless, our Father has revealed Himself in big ways. I can't go into much now, mainly because I have to share this computer with 12 other people. Suffice it to say that Jesus is in this place you guys. The love of God is so visible in these kids. They have nothing, yet everything because of God's unconditional love. God has given favor to this region, and you can feel it, especially being surrounded by Laos, whos government is killing Christians, and Burma, whos government refused to let foreign aid in after the Cyclone devastated the country...basically watching as thousands of children die. 

Please pray that the Lord's Light continues to shine in Thailand and spread into these dark places. Please pray that Gods favor and protection continues for us and that we continue to walk in His will and not our own conveniences.

Keep doin it up men, and thank you for your prayers.

Peace and Love,

Devin

HEY MEN!!!

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO, IT WILL ROCK YOU!

Praises from Colorado

What's happening fellers? I sure do miss meeting with you all and am sick with envy for the camping trip that I will not be able to attend this year. Maybe I'll make it back for the 3rd annual outing, so keep meeting faithfully!

I am so blessed by you guys. I am delighted to remember that each Monday you all are gathering to call upon the Lord to be glorified in, about, and through your lives... and my prayer for you all is that the Mighty Spirit of God would continue to move amongst you.

I remember back to the earliest days of the men's group gathering and witnessing the movement of the Holy Spirit. We were typical guys, short in organization, short in preparation, short in discipline, short in righteousness but it was clear that God's eyes were upon Tarik's old house in Goleta each time we gathered in the name of Jesus Christ, Most High. When we'd open his word, or put hands on the shoulders of a brother to pray, or turned our hearts inside-out before God in worship, He would move.

And now take stock: we have a brother leading a prayer ministry in So Cal, we've got a brother en route to Thailand to minister to the orphans and the unsaved, we have a brother leading worship for the youth group, we have a couple of fathers-to-be awaiting that sweet arrival, and we have witnesses scattered throughout the nation who continue to Listen Up, and do our best to act upon our instructions.

Praise God for what he has accomplish, praise God for what he is accomplishing, and praise God for what he will accomplish. He is not one to leave a job unfinished. He promised he'd come back, he promised eternal joy with him, he promised an inheritance of everlasting life... so Praise God, the keeper of his promises. Whatever trials we must endure put on the joy of salvation and praise God, for he will perfect all things in their right time.

I love you all, even those I have yet to meet, for we are all members the same body,

Ivan

Back at Taylors this week only!!

529 w Pueblo #4... We are meeting at Taylor's house this week for men's group. Be there by 7 sharp.   See you and yours there.  TG

Hey Guys, its J.R. miss you all

Hope all is well in Santa Barbara, just wanted to let you all know how its going down here.  First off the waves are awesome and the water is warm.  But thats about the only thing.  I reallized that Santa Barbara is my home now, and i would be lost if i tried to stay in San Clemente.  I am happy to tell you guys that im gunna be moving back after my internship is over in about 2 months or less, gunna try to make it to mens group in a couple of weeks, and Reality also.  And i really wanna go on the camping trip so ill keep in touch and make sure im not doing anything the weekend that its going down.  Kansas was AWESOME!!!!! If you guys could be prayin for me for just staying strong in Jesus, and being able to figure out a place to live and job when i come back to SB, that would be awesome.  Miss you guys and ill see you soon.  Peace. 

2nd Annual Listen-up-Mens Camping Trip

Gentlemen,

We are now approaching the time of the year when we need to start considering some times for the second annual listen up mens camping trip. Now listen, for all you city boys who have never tested your manliness in the rugged outdoors this is your time to prove how tough you really are! But for all you other guys, well, lets just say its time! So at this point we are shooting for one of the weekends in August. I want to take a vote on which weekend we will all be free. so email which of the following weekends you will be free and then i will tally up the scores and make a final decision. Use the example below to vote which weekends you are available then e-mail me at

	Dates Available
Name	8/9-8/10	8/16-8/17	8/23-8/24	8/30-8/31
Neil	N/A	x	x	x

Further details will be updated as decision are made such as the location and what we will need to bring. At this point lets figure out a good time to go!

Armstrong, N.

OC listen up

Men! Please engage in a battle with me. I can not get men to open up here. Most christians in orange county are content with keeping the Lord at a safe distance and its breaking my heart. Its beginning to wear on me. God has been so good to minister to me as I engage in this battle, but I need my warriors right now! He has given me verse for this place that really has scarred me. "When sin is fully grown, it leads to death!" Are we trully chistians here? Do we truly have salvation. If we have too much of the world in us, where is their room for the Holy Spirit? Their is an evil spirit here. Pray! Please pray for this place. Pray for me for strength. May Jesus Christ be Glorified in this place! Love you guys.

Ben

Happy 4th of July!!!

Many families have lived with the loss of loved ones who stood up when called upon to defend freedom.  Knowing that there is evil in this world, they chose to stand against it.  Recently with a new rise of Islam, it has become more and more apparent that the opposite of freedom is death.  Many trends in the world are leaning toward socialism and less individual freedom. Our free country leads the world in helping the widows and orphans, the poor and those who can't help themselves.  Be thankful for the country that God saw fit for you to live in, and since we have freedom of expression and religion, lets continue to be thankful... and use it.  TG

Update on Chris...

Hey everybody,  Jason here.  Just got back from the hospital and logged in here to throw out a quick update.  He's doing well now after having surgery this morning to remove an infection from the wound on his back from his last surgery.  He got a staph infection and was in a great deal of pain for the last few days.  It seems that everything went smoothly, and they were able to remove all of the infection.

Keep him in prayer for the next few days though.  There is a *possibilty* that the infection got into his bloodstream.  They are testing him for that today,  most likely it'll be negative.  Also,  he'll probably be in the hospital for a couple more days so if you want to visit him, he's in CCU room 7 on the 3rd floor (above the ER).  Or you can call 682-7111 and have them connect you to CCU and then to Chris Stroud.

Let's all praise God for the amazing work that He's doing in Chris' life!  God will be faithful to see this good work He has begun through to completion!  Amen!

*EDIT*   UPDATE AS OF JUNE 26:

The doctors have just informed Chris that he might be staying at the hospital for up to TWO WEEKS.  The extended stay would be to insure that his wound heals under proper supervision and constant care  so it's not necessarily a bad thing, but lets' keep him in prayer and visit him when we can.

Update from Kyle

Hey men,
Wow, I can't believe I figured this blog thing out. First time. Guys, I'm so stoked to have heard from a few of you in the time I've been up here in Seattle. The Lord has just been working overtime up here with the city and the people in it.

For those of you who haven't been up in this area, it's a totally different place than Carp. I miss the little town I grew up in as a kid, surfing, skating, getting into trouble and just being in paradise. But there is a beauty and treasure up here just waiting to be revealed. Just for starters, Seattle is "the most educated city in the nation" with more residents who have a college degree than any other city in the nation. There are more dogs than children, and Christians up here. Seriously. It is a place where you go to heaven if you recycle and vote for Obama, not that either one of those things is bad in itself, but just to give an idea. There is such an anti-establishment undercurrent here that questioning truth and authority seem to be the norm.

As you might imagine, being a Christian here is not popular. It's really weird. There honestly is some persecution up here for standing up and proclaiming Jesus as Lord and calling people to follow his Truth. Even just loving on people as He calls us to is seen as kind of weird.

But I'm digging it hard core! The Lord has been working on me hard up here. I got plugged into an incredible church that seriously is changing the streets each day. If you want to check it out, just visit www.marshillchurch.org. Pastor Mark is our preaching pastor, and it's a big church, but the community and movement it has is being used by Jesus like nothing I've seen before. On any give Sunday, there are about 5,000 people who attend any one of 4 services at our main campus.

My life has been so blessed you guys. After much prayer and encouragement from you guys, I've gotten engaged, found a job, and moved into my first place ever. God is so gnarly. After praying all summer and fall for a job to come, the Lord delivered in perfect time and place. I work for the Pacific Coast Feather Co. (www.pacificcoast.com) and am loving it. The people here are great to work with and the job couldn't be more fun. I am learning tons each day.

The apartment I moved into is a rad little place in the city. It is a killer little place in a rad part of town and the Lord was so good in helping me find it. It will be the perfect place for Brittney and I to start our life together.

And the raddest part - being engaged. Well, being engaged has definately been very hard and a trying time for both Brittney and I, but only through the Holy Spirit's help and direction, we are better than yesterday and looking towards Him always. We have grown in ways that we didn't imagine, communicating better, become more intimate without any of the physical sin blocking our way, and just living for Him as a couple! He has taught me a lot about my role as a leader and one day guiding our family more and more towards Jesus.

I have met up with a great community group filled mostly with people in their early 20s. Because of the huge need for community groups at Mars Hill, the set up is a little different. We don't really have community group seasons, as they just run all year long and people stay with the same one - once they find a group they fit with. That being the case, we have a method called "replication" where more community groups are formed by the splitting off of pre-existing groups. To better explain, the group I'm now part of will eventually split into two separate different groups once our numbers are consistently around 20 people each week. And by God's humor and perfect plan, he has put me in the place of "apprentice." This basically means that when our group is ready to split, I will become one of the new community group leaders. I have had some amazing time with a few of the leaders at church and they have poured into me unceasingly. The whole idea of walking as Jesus walked is to create disciples, and as men and leaders we are called to do the same that He did. This is the idea at Mars Hill - to be constantly pouring out into people and raising up new disciples, so that ultimately, this dark and sin-filled city will serve God like never before. It's like a hurricane here boys! There is so much going on and I hope you all have time to come and make a trip up at some point. I would be more than happy to set you up at my place and hang out whenever.

I didn't have addresses for you all, but just to make it known, you are all invited to the wedding this summer. We are getting married Sunday, August 10th at 6 PM on Mercer Island (just 2 minutes east of downtown Seattle). I know it's a trip, but I wanted you to all know you are loved and thought of. I miss Monday nights with you guys, singing, talking, learning, laughing and loving. You have all played such a huge role in God's plan for my life. I'm not quite sure what it is yet, but I know you were ALL instrumental in setting a solid foundation for my faith. In a time when I was brand new in my walk, you stayed on me, preached the truth and encouraged me to follow you all in the march towards our perfect Lord. I hope to hear from you guys soon. I will definately keep checking back on this blog thing and letting you know what's happening. Until then, I'll keep holding down the Pacific Northwest until Jesus has His day. Later on gentlemen!

Peace and love in Him,
Kyle

Update from Ivan

Thank you all for your continued prayers for our lives here in Colorado. A big focus for us spiritually is the opportunity we've been given to start a college/young adult ministry in Longmont. As we tell people around here what we feel that the Lord is putting on our hearts, people warn us that it is going to "blow-up". That certainly isn't the goal, but I think those comments are indicative of the hunger in the area for people in this demographic to worship, pray, study and fellowship together.

Listen Up has served as a wonderful model for me. As Taylor says, leave your shoes and your masks at the door. That's really what Chrissy and I are praying for, is to facilitate a gathering where people can get real with God, get real with themselves, and get real with each other.

I'll be teaching, which is really exciting because I believe that is one of my spiritual gifts which I have infrequently had the chance to apply. But as James warns, "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." That freaks me out!

My request, as you guys pray for this, would be that Chrissy and I are humble, repentant, and submissive to God's will. I know we all sin, and I don't want to take the yoke of legalism, but I don't want to be a blind guide teaching from a point of hypocrisy. Also, if you could pray for unity of vision and direction between myself and a few others that will be a part of the leadership team. And most importantly, pray for God to change peoples lives and raise disciples to be sent into the harvest.

Love you guys and be sure to give my brother Aaron a noogie for me.

Brad Paisley and Sara Evans: New Again

LAST NIGHT

HEY GUYS I JUST WANTED TO COMMENT HOW GREAT OUR DISCUSSIONS HAVE BEEN OVER THE PAST FEW WEEKS. I FEEL LIKE WE ARE GAINING NEW INSIGHT IN HOW TO LIVE OUT OR WALKS WITH GOD. I ESPECIALLY THINK TALKING ABOUT HOW WE SOMETIMES CONFUSE PEACE FOR FEAR IS SOMETHING THAT WE NEED TO BE MINDFUL OF. I KNOW THAT THIS IS ONE OF MY STRUGGLES AND I WANT TO HAVE THE DISCERNMENT WHEN I AM THINKING THIS WAY. ON THIS NOTE I WOULD LIKE TO ASK FOR YOUR GUYS PRAYERS. I AM CURRENTLY THINKING ABOUT RECONCILING WITH SOMEONE WHO I WAS FRIENDS WITH A FEW YEARS AGO. THIS PERSON WAS VERY MANIPULATIVE WITH ME AND LIED TO ME ON A NUMBER OF OCCASIONS. ONE OF WHICH AFFECTED MY RELATIONSHIP WITH EMILY, (THIS WAS THE LAST TIME I HAD A FRIENDSHIP WITH HIM. AT THIS POINT I AM ONLY CONSIDERING THIS, AND PRAYING FOR THE LORDS GUIDANCE. HIS NAME IS ERIC, AND I WOULD VERY MUCH APPRECIATE YOUR PRAYERS AND SUGGESTIONS. MY BIGGEST STRUGGLE WITH THIS IS I DO NOT WANT TO BECOME HIS "BUDDY" AGAIN, BUT I DO WANT TO CLEAR MY CONSCIOUS OF THE MESS THAT I FEEL CAME FROM THIS CONFLICT OVER TWO YEARS AGO.

PEACE
NEIL

Sweet and simple testimonies

Men's Group moves to Montecito

2126 East Valley Road

Ahh, yessss, finnally we're moving back to Tarik's in Monn-teh-cii-toe. Guys, I know these directions may seem wacked but it's just like riding a bike after you do it the first time. We'll post some guys out front to make sure you don't miss us. Here are the directions:

From the North:
Take 101 South;
Exit (on the left) Sheffield Drive;
Make left at Stop;
Make Right at next Stop (Sheffield Dr);
Take windy road (stay left) all the way up the hill until you get to East Valley Road (CA 192) at next Stop;
Make a left onto East Valley (CA 192);
House is 3/10 of a mile on the right hand side...pass Romero Canyon, Orchard, and Tabor Lane but drive slow and pay attention! It comes quickly.
Park by the boulders on the left and walk across the street up the driveway (the mailbox on the driveway will say 2122; that is the right one) you will see the new house; walk up to the second house on the property.

Please park responsibly...make room for others across the street by the boulders...there may be some parking along the driveway if you come early.

See you tonight. Peace.

Glenn and Deb

Well Glenn and Deb took off this AM. They are stoked for what lies ahead. Keep them in prayer during this transition. TG

Worship Music

Hey guys a few of you asked for a copy of some of my sheet music it is available to download from the gmail account - Charles

Glad to be back!

Hey guys,
Just wanted to say that it was sweet being back tonight and that you guys are such a blessing. These past few days have been down-trodden and depressing, and the Lord used you all to bless, encourage, and cheer me up. Thanks for being submissive to the Lord. :]

P.s. Neil and Fred, great job tonight.

P.p.s. Glen, you and you're wife are such an encouragement.

"'Not by might or by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty"

-Zechariah 4:6

-Aaron "Absent" Feeney.

P.p.p.s. Thanks for the name Taylor. ;]

Glenn Odell

Hey guys,

Don't you wish the good times would last forever? Our season with Glenn is coming to an end. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 says:

To every [thing there is] a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up [that which is] planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

So tonight is our last night with our friend...until he blesses us with another visit. And here's why he's leaving:

Hi Guys,

We just wanted to share the background behind what, to some, may seem an improbable and out-of-the-blue move.

We will be leaving Santa Barbara for the small northern CA town of Quincy, Monday June 16. Quincy is an unincorporated town of just over 5,000 souls and is the county seat of Plumas County. It is 2 hours north of Lake Tahoe, where the Sierra Nevada Mtn Range ends and the Cascade Mtn Range begins. The county economy is timber based and Quincy is home to the county’s last mill. There are many places to fish with lots of challenging jeep trails nearby. At 3,500 ft elevation it is a four season climate.

We have been to Quincy many times over the last two years. My oldest son (Matt) is a captain with the Plumas National Forest and has lived in Quincy for the last 8 years or so. Recently, my middle son (Seth) took a promotional transfer (now I have two fire captains in the family) to the Lassen National Forest from the Flagstaff, AZ area. This brought his family (including my grandson Jacob and granddaughter Jasmine) to within an hour of Quincy.

The most significant ingredient in the decision to move was our dear friends (Bob and Dee Burwell) accepted Jesus into their lives 3 months ago (a year ago they asked us for our testimony). Quincy presents a big challenge for spirit-filled believers. It seems pretty bleak right now with a smattering of very small (dying), main-line denomination churches plus a small presence of the JW and LDS cults. However, there is a small group of believers (6-10 couples) that has met in a home on Wed. nights for the last year or so. Their teaching, worship and fellowship is right-on, and we were welcomed with open arms! We hope this bright spot will be used by The Lord to bring revival to Quincy. Matt (my oldest) has been with that group since its beginning.

Bob and Dee’s commitment to The Lord was an answer to my prayers to God that He show me just one tangible sign of fruit being produced as I walk my path with Him.

The love, teaching, worship and fellowship we have experienced with our Reality family has enabled us to grow in so many ways. We’ve seen our faith become established on that firm foundation that is “The Lord”. Not that we have attained (in the Phil 3:12 context). We have been prayerful in our consideration of this big step. One of the most meaningful signs He gave us was the welcome the four of us received at the church-in-the-home. We certainly feel “stretched” spiritually by this undertaking, but we feel that moving out of “the comfort zone” and not settling for being merely “fat sheep” waiting for the rapture is consistent with the goal of finishing the race strong (not by our works-but by our abiding in Him).

Bob helped us get our first load of stuff to Quincy the Monday after the Baptism. He attended Reality with us and witnessed Deb’s baptism and it blew his doors off!!

Bob and Dee will be back in SB next weekend (Father’s Day) to help us pack up the remainder of our stuff. They will be with us at church as well! Dee wants to experience being in a room with 400+ people who love Jesus and are worshipping Him together. We will be back in SB for a short time after the move, to finish preparing the SB place for rental - so you will see us again!

Deb will certainly miss coming in weekly to lend a hand. It has been such a blessing to be able to serve The Lord in that capacity.

You guys remain our core family and will continue to have our support for the foreseeable future. Our love for you is deep, spiritual and emotional and will have to leave it at that…

Thank you so much…
God bless you all!

Glenn and Deb Odell
P.O. Box 737
Quincy, CA 95971

men!

be in prayer for chris today, he's having surgery on his back. the Lord has already revealed himself through all this by sending chris a doctor who has been extremely helpful in getting him this surgery right away, and i believe we'll continue to see the Lord's hand moving throughout the surgery and recovery. i'm not sure of the visiting situation yet, i know he's in surgery right now and that there's a couple hours after where he can't have anyone come see him, but after that he would love for us to go see him. if anyone gets updated on how he is or anything, post it, i'll do the same. love you all, praise the Lord, see ya tomorrow.

e

Keith, Ben, and Ivan!!!!!! Whats cookin'?!!

Hey guys, We here in SB just had a nice break on Memorial day to celebrate our countries service men and women of past and present. It was nice to reconnect last Monday after two weeks. Soon we will move to Tariks place in Mont eh seat ooohh... Pool, Hot tub, BBQ etc. Need I say more? We will start to meet from 4pm to 11pm to fit in all the fellowship and cannonball competitions. Not really. How is Listrenup going there? How can we be praying for you guys? Hope this finds you well and we look forward to gettin the latest.. TG PS We have tons of shirts if you want them.

Christian Gymnastics

What do you wanna be when you grow up?

Hey guys, have you asked yourself this question lately? I have. And while I used to dream about being a rock star, these days I have been able to identify who I want to be like and continue to learn how to be more like Him. What about you?

PS-our band in High School was called "3 Days to Midnight"...this picture was taken in 1987.

www.facebook.com

tarik

Self-Discipline

This is from my daily calendar:

"Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life." --Matthew 7:14

Great leaders always have self-discipline. As General Dwight D. Eisenhower said, "There are no victories at bargain prices." When it comes to self-discipline, people choose one of two things: Either they choose the pain of discipline, which comes from sacrifice and growth, or they choose the pain of regret, which comes form taking the easy road and missing opportunities. Each person in life chooses.

Reminds me of the song...though there's pain in the offering...blessed be your name...FYI-Dwight D Eisenhower was the 33rd President of the United States and served 2 terms 1953-1961 after leading our troops to victory in WWII.

www.wikipedia.org

tarik