tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16094142256286453612024-03-19T04:12:37.093-04:00Mike's Show NotesMike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.comBlogger565125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-35667644902196645382015-02-09T07:58:00.000-05:002015-02-09T07:58:09.218-05:00Waiting Until the Last Minute to Plan Valentines?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu0mBQxG9CYe3QtHLKK8jcbkqNGc48ea-IdrNhk9sAmXFL5pe_YmA63BMTjt54v3f2YU5QavmGCWzX1FTAPHrab0Ch908WZ7Suj_rTTKR8407hAvFoqhHa3-xmTo7OfwwuBTFqr1ZZGk/s1600/valentines-day-wallpaper-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu0mBQxG9CYe3QtHLKK8jcbkqNGc48ea-IdrNhk9sAmXFL5pe_YmA63BMTjt54v3f2YU5QavmGCWzX1FTAPHrab0Ch908WZ7Suj_rTTKR8407hAvFoqhHa3-xmTo7OfwwuBTFqr1ZZGk/s1600/valentines-day-wallpaper-13.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">According to a new national survey by <a href="http://heylets.com/">HeyLets.com</a> — the
ultimate mobile app for sharing positive and memorable recommendations —
<i><b>42 percent of American men who expect to have a Valentine's date do not
make any plans for the big day until Feb. 11 or later.</b></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">So for all those late date planners out there, what can you do to 'wow'
your sweetie even when you've got a master's degree in love
procrastination?<br />
<br />
According to HeyLets
CEO Justin Parfitt — an expert on creating unforgettable everyday
experiences and the former founder of a top dating company sold to
PlentyofFish— guys should return the chocolates, skip the flower store,
and instead p<i><b>lan a unique experience that she'll be bragging about to
all of her friends.<br />
</b></i><br />
Based on the HeyLets national survey, the data backs this up:<br />
<br />
* Both men (43%) and women (46%) prefer "something creative that requires thought" as their top Valentine's Day gift.<br />
<br />
So how can you plan a memorable date in under 5 minutes? Justin suggests:<br />
<b><br />
1. AVOID THE NEGATIVE (TIME SAVINGS: 1 HOUR)</b><br />
Don't waste your time sifting through low-star restaurant reviews on
traditional review sites and apps. Negative reviews are based on
people's personal dislikes that often aren't applicable.<br />
<br />
<b>2. CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEARCH (TIME SAVINGS: 45 MINUTES)</b><br />
Instead of wading through suggestions by people who have totally
different tastes than you and your date, first identify someone who has
your same sensibilities — and see what they recommend. (This takes only
one minute using HeyLets.)<br />
<b><br />
3. BE SPONTANEOUS (TIME SAVINGS: 30 MINUTES)</b><br />
It's great to have plans in place, but after you've hit your first spot
why not do something memorable in the moment? Using apps like HeyLets,
you can see what other daters are doing right now and pick and choose
from the best.</span></span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-444836666714223572014-07-22T22:03:00.000-04:002014-07-22T22:03:44.311-04:00What I Learned Running for Political Office<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5L8vMFpP8BcTXJzSKBb412wLy1TjlUXvLNZTQdJ9oVNmfbDlcl0w1EJ-a4EOBCnGrIOLkXUbF5S77iVEcGTAQdD8CPxehJRdzH3VUR8LH80Dv-jSTjFCVuG2kA4NynWmjX9Lwwa_6nLA/s1600/Campaign+sign.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5L8vMFpP8BcTXJzSKBb412wLy1TjlUXvLNZTQdJ9oVNmfbDlcl0w1EJ-a4EOBCnGrIOLkXUbF5S77iVEcGTAQdD8CPxehJRdzH3VUR8LH80Dv-jSTjFCVuG2kA4NynWmjX9Lwwa_6nLA/s1600/Campaign+sign.png" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">This past election season I decided to throw my hat in the ring and run for a seat on my county's school board. What an amazing experience! This is one item that I can definitely cross off my bucket list!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Throughout this process there were a number of things that I learned - about myself, my faith, politics and leadership. Here are 10 things that came to mind:</span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The people of my county are diverse and extraordinary!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I have a better appreciation for the administrators, faculty and staff of our school system and the challenges they face.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Run a campaign for your own reasons and not on someone else's agenda.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">There are certain legalities to running a political campaign - know what they are and how they affect your career.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Running a serious campaign takes money. Seeking political office is not cheap.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">No matter how clearly you communicate someone will always misunderstand you or twist what you have said.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Work the DATA! Understand who your constituents are.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Surround yourself with prayer warriors and wise counsel.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">No matter what - stay true to your convictions; you still have to look at yourself in the mirror each morning.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">There's nothing that can take the place of a supportive family - especially an encouraging wife!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">No matter how everything turns out, win or lose, <b>God is still sovereign</b>!</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are probably other lessons that I learned during this campaign but these are the ones that really stood out. If you are thinking about running for office I urge to get alone with God and pray it out. Then get with your spouse and pray some more. Not matter what office you seek it's a big step!</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Update at 9pm, July 22, 2014:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've been watching the returns and </span><span style="font-size: large;">I am humbled by the confidence voters of Barrow County District 4 have
expressed in allowing me to serve them as their representative on the
Board of Education. With God's help and their input I hope to be their
voice. I want to thank
Mr. Dunn for his service on the board and I look forward to his input
in the transition process. Thank you Barrow County for your vote!! </span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-85775569932852772662014-04-25T07:20:00.002-04:002014-04-25T07:20:44.541-04:00As It Was in The Days of Noah<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5oOv06E6rPV8UEoFD68giE6Dq5v_ztGEo_ykZiejj-ji85rBe4SYMqatK5HRlXkxPfRr78m15J8IlAVp9UQ_hPfXy_Ftnzx-6aNiOOlHsjdGGZiIX7CGNSdEeW8y0voZv6ahkr1xFmQ/s1600/noah+movie+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5oOv06E6rPV8UEoFD68giE6Dq5v_ztGEo_ykZiejj-ji85rBe4SYMqatK5HRlXkxPfRr78m15J8IlAVp9UQ_hPfXy_Ftnzx-6aNiOOlHsjdGGZiIX7CGNSdEeW8y0voZv6ahkr1xFmQ/s1600/noah+movie+poster.jpg" height="200" width="135" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Last March the movie <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1959490/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank"><i>Noah</i></a>, starring actor <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000128/?ref_=tt_cl_t1" target="_blank">Russell Crowe</a>, hit the the theaters amid controversy and skepticism. But what can we learn from the biblical account of Noah and what it means to our culture today? Are there clues to end prophecy found there? That's what <a href="http://www.jeffkinley.com/" target="_blank">Jeff Kinley</a>, pastor and author, has attempted to do in his latest book, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/As-It-Was-Days-Noah/dp/0736961380/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398424366&sr=8-1&keywords=jeff+kinley" target="_blank">As It Was in The Days of Noah</a>.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some of the clues that Jeff found:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YkSekaFY7LXnoU0sM98vhqdAcv0pyxyVeuFX3jWCE8gedDrSa4a_1KGSejZ4ArX225zpilGO9A6mhrUSCi-xnCcJa2Ug1R3tcnNdnmCiYRrK07XUP41Tnqfjqd5Tm7QjFvbGryRQ4ww/s1600/Noah+book+cover.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YkSekaFY7LXnoU0sM98vhqdAcv0pyxyVeuFX3jWCE8gedDrSa4a_1KGSejZ4ArX225zpilGO9A6mhrUSCi-xnCcJa2Ug1R3tcnNdnmCiYRrK07XUP41Tnqfjqd5Tm7QjFvbGryRQ4ww/s1600/Noah+book+cover.jpeg" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Rapid economic decline</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Increase in violence</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Compromised personal information</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Uninhibited sexuality</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Persecution of Believers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Growing departure of people from the church</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the honor of talking with Jeff about his book and what we can learn from Noah. To listen to my interview please click <a href="https://soundcloud.com/michael-shelley-2/noah" target="_blank">here</a>. </span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-67165494249932365702014-04-07T07:49:00.001-04:002014-04-07T07:51:56.552-04:00Brian Brown-Rescued<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvF6kFYN-735Q6vceJwk4WttsS472573yvaQVOFQXkwLFT_LcYJf9Vwqz9OGMG4Zmp6zb-H2SePuktaSz_w4CZO5JgL0AzoaUDMtP-IxT_ByXdo06Zy7b9tMiUpC_8uQt6lEL-rHA7WZ0/s1600/Rescued1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_338092="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvF6kFYN-735Q6vceJwk4WttsS472573yvaQVOFQXkwLFT_LcYJf9Vwqz9OGMG4Zmp6zb-H2SePuktaSz_w4CZO5JgL0AzoaUDMtP-IxT_ByXdo06Zy7b9tMiUpC_8uQt6lEL-rHA7WZ0/s1600/Rescued1.jpg" height="320" width="210" yta="true" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">A private outing in the family Sessna takes a dangerous turn and what happens in the next 15 hours showed the Brown family that God had other things in mind. A great read, <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rescued-Brian-Brown-ebook/dp/B00ET7Q53G/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396871270&sr=1-1&keywords=rescued+brian+brown" target="_blank">Rescued: One Family's Miraculous Story,</a></em> will encourage your heart that God still does miracles and that there are no consequences.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the chance to talk with Brian about that weekend and what he and his family learned about God and each other. Click the link and hear from Brian himself and what it meant to him to be rescued - </span><a href="http://soundcloud.com/michael-shelley-2/brian-brown-rescued?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=blogger&utm_content=http://soundcloud.com/michael-shelley-2/brian-brown-rescued"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Brown-Rescued</span></a>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-39406806835197796782014-02-20T06:45:00.002-05:002014-02-20T06:45:34.941-05:00Downton Abbey - A Measure of Excellence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS7DSiWdBsUK6NxWOisStophCT3Vt1wEBlEV6TRvooq2uOUW-QCd3f8QEjHnZff1DSCfSeZFqeTmkGmc621jnCvlkJ0OiNCNb4slZixOxBeVhJPZAHeLn3L29fqCeiDZI0Ln1vCfaYUQ/s1600/DOWNTONABBEY_SEASON4_ARTWORK_GROUP%2520landscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS7DSiWdBsUK6NxWOisStophCT3Vt1wEBlEV6TRvooq2uOUW-QCd3f8QEjHnZff1DSCfSeZFqeTmkGmc621jnCvlkJ0OiNCNb4slZixOxBeVhJPZAHeLn3L29fqCeiDZI0Ln1vCfaYUQ/s1600/DOWNTONABBEY_SEASON4_ARTWORK_GROUP%2520landscape.jpg" height="202" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Over the past several weeks I've been able to catch up on my new favorite television show, "Downton Abbey." Yes - you read that right! I am a huge fan! (I'll return my man-card!) It's only been recently that I got hooked on this show that takes place post World War I in an age where being proper and having a sense of honor and excellence was had by most. I love Maggie Smith's character the most!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm learning a lot about what it means to strive for excellence. It seems every character in the show instills some type of excellence. Now, mind you, not every person on the show is someone that I want my kids to model (O'Brien and Thomas come to mind), but even those characters knows what it means to be proper and to do their job well. The show is filled with values and character traits that seem to be missing in out culture. Let me give you a few examples:</span><br />
<ol><span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Benevloence</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Chilvary</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Honor</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Charity</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Loyalty</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Purpose</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Self-sacrifce</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are many others, but these stand out to me personally. So the question is - how do you measure excellence? At what bar do you strive for? I urge to catch a few episodes of the show and begin to look for ways in which you can instill some of these "classic" values in your life.</span><br />
Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-75208140973362926792014-01-14T07:10:00.000-05:002014-01-14T07:10:51.321-05:00How Are Those Resolutions Going?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC4wj4Hf1yn-1nD13gy6H6TJlts2r96EH2kl59gpaFhd1XfllGn1F-4Q6PCEK2VIRSHxkU1Q3pbf88t8EW8ErkH6Qjv1ojaM3GfMRLpxAgPaelFkI28ETFZevLrTWBXU5GO2yLAkfr4Q/s1600/January-2014.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC4wj4Hf1yn-1nD13gy6H6TJlts2r96EH2kl59gpaFhd1XfllGn1F-4Q6PCEK2VIRSHxkU1Q3pbf88t8EW8ErkH6Qjv1ojaM3GfMRLpxAgPaelFkI28ETFZevLrTWBXU5GO2yLAkfr4Q/s1600/January-2014.png" height="107" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So, we are about half way through the first month of 2014 - how are those resolutions coming? I can only speak for me but I'm tanking right now. My resolutions are listed in the <a href="http://mikesshownotes.blogspot.com/2014/01/happy-new-year-now-what.html" target="_blank">previous post</a> and I don't think they are all that difficult, but it seems that they are taking longer to catch on than I thought they would.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was hoping that by now they would become a habit but it seems that habits take a little longer to catch on than I thought. I've heard that habits can take about 21 - 26 days but shouldn't I be seeing something by now? Actually, according to some of the research I've been reading some habits can take no time at all to form while others can take as long as 66 days. Good Grief!! If that's the case I don't think I will ever get through these resolutions!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You probably are having the same reaction I did when I read the research but I'm here to encourage and not discourage you. Here are some things that I have been reminded of regarding forming new habits:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Repition is important! Anything worth doing you need to do over and over again. Remember some of the habits we are trying form are going to replace bad habits or are going to be new things all together. Keep moving forward. Don't let the little slip up sidetrack you.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">We are fighting the base part of our nature if we are trying to retrain our brain to move in the right direction. Our human nature hates change has much as anyone else and will fight you again and again.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Gather around you a support team that will keep you encouraged and focused on what you are trying to accomplish.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Get in to God's Word (that may be the new habit you're trying to form - don't start in Lamentations!).</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hey, it's only the middle of January there's still whole year in front of you! You can be successful if you just keep moving forward - one step at a time.</span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-48605704273340330262014-01-02T06:29:00.000-05:002014-01-02T06:29:03.573-05:00Happy New Year! Now What?<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWWVWEsanDYZmoPV96sXru_TGPaTL2hoz6ZHSP_hPM2B1pcleTMt_RyCFEZNRJylJuyDzzOaKOlfZ6uik0UdeDfKMzmL9NNI4UcXyWcNNomNgvdxdFzsainwuiN2Rx9MUowOzD8MDTA4/s1600/Happy-New-Year-2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWWVWEsanDYZmoPV96sXru_TGPaTL2hoz6ZHSP_hPM2B1pcleTMt_RyCFEZNRJylJuyDzzOaKOlfZ6uik0UdeDfKMzmL9NNI4UcXyWcNNomNgvdxdFzsainwuiN2Rx9MUowOzD8MDTA4/s1600/Happy-New-Year-2014.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1744774790"></span><span id="goog_1744774791"></span><br />
<br />
It's the beginning of a new year and as I sit and reflect on 2013 it's easy to be reminded of all things that I didn't accomplish and not see the many opportunities I had last year. Here are some of those accomplishments:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Re-elected to the Board of Directors of the National Religious Broadcasters</li>
<li>Finished year one for the C.S. Lewis Fellows Program</li>
<li>Spoke I front of the students at Toccoa Falls College</li>
<li>Traveled to Haiti.</li>
<li>Spoke to high school students in Franklin, NC</li>
<li>Spoke in a few churches</li>
<li>Guest hosted on a talk radio program</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I read a a few posts in the last couple of days (<a href="http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2013/december/10-things-on-thinking-ahead-in-new-year.html" target="_blank">Ed Stetzer</a> and <a href="http://timemanagementninja.com/2013/12/10-questions-to-help-you-reflect-on-your-year-and-prepare-for-the-next/" target="_blank">Time Ninja</a>) regarding questions one should ask themselves entering a new year. Here are the questions I will be asking myself this year:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Where did I succeed in 2013? Where did I fail?</li>
<li>What did I enjoy the most? What do I regret?</li>
<li>What lessons have I learned? What do I need to do differently?</li>
<li>What do I need to do more? What do I need to stop doing?</li>
<li>What impossible thing am I going to ask God to do this year?</li>
<li>What ways will I make my family stronger and better this year?</li>
<li>How and in what way will I increase my enjoyment of God in the coming year?</li>
<li>What is that one habit that wastes the most time in my life? What do I plan to do about it?</li>
<li>What Spiritual disciplines do I need to strengthen this year?</li>
<li>How will I make my church better this year?</li>
<li>What one thing do I plan to do this year that will matter in 10 years? In eternity? </li>
<li>In what way will I make 2014 better than 2013?</li>
</ol>
<div>
Here are some goals that I'm striving for this year:</div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<ol>
<ol>
<li>Write a blog post once per week.</li>
<li>Conduct one interview per week.</li>
<li>Read one book per month.</li>
<li>Speak once per month.</li>
<li>Take my wife on a date once each week.</li>
<li>Spend a few hours each week with each of my children</li>
<li>Build my platform</li>
</ol>
</ol>
My prayer is that you will find a few goals to strive for, and with God's help see success in 2014. If you need help in meeting your goals why not gather others around you (physically and virtually) that can encourage you each day. Make them a priority in your life!<br />
<br />
Have a great 2014 and let me know your progress!!<br />
<ol><ol>
</ol>
</ol>
Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-84307199735343428832013-10-18T06:39:00.002-04:002013-10-18T06:39:36.009-04:00Haiti Journal - Day 2Sorry for the delay. <br />
Here's my journal entry for my second day in Haiti:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCZ0sCHt2JN10un9Af6SpWwma6kMDb6Ibmxy1pWUg1SUu587tFPSA5_z63xRzxOFgksuxPoOf-vDPNqzVYaKoqTEpooag8TQuK6JcknB5v_6yTDYsDNmXxLCJYRdtTWu4zx-bL4_PwMA/s1600/GOPR2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCZ0sCHt2JN10un9Af6SpWwma6kMDb6Ibmxy1pWUg1SUu587tFPSA5_z63xRzxOFgksuxPoOf-vDPNqzVYaKoqTEpooag8TQuK6JcknB5v_6yTDYsDNmXxLCJYRdtTWu4zx-bL4_PwMA/s1600/GOPR2628.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<i>The morning commute is so much more intense than any I've seen! Atlanta's got nothing compared to Haiti! Yesterday we visited School of the Good Sower and the girl that showed us around, Dora, is from Hungry. She asked that we pray for someone to come in to do praise and worship with the children. The person that was doing it before had to leave and the kids are really missing that experience. Especially the kids in the special needs area.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LPfp4QbOTjsyqXqy4iy7EIrpr0GwsPa_w3tcZb2ozTct_33R-YwlrIEJ9GH21I5ppxeld9DuM0bFXd9DTdQ_sD5Gsb_ci8vH8mmEdN4iY4VM2lGfaJHJF9I4IRVeb194jDK-k5L1FxQ/s1600/boy+outside+school.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LPfp4QbOTjsyqXqy4iy7EIrpr0GwsPa_w3tcZb2ozTct_33R-YwlrIEJ9GH21I5ppxeld9DuM0bFXd9DTdQ_sD5Gsb_ci8vH8mmEdN4iY4VM2lGfaJHJF9I4IRVeb194jDK-k5L1FxQ/s1600/boy+outside+school.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><i>Our first school we visited today was having their first day of classes. Some of the children, mainly the younger ones, were definitely missing the moms. There was one small boy who came to school but was not allowed in to class because he didn't have a uniform, which are required of all students; and his parents did not meet with the school director. So when we pulled up he was sitting under a tree listening to the class he would be in from the outside. I think if a student in the States was not allowed in class he would have left.</i><br />
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<i>As we are driving around Haiti I'm surprised at the number of cell phones that I see. Plus the advertisements for smart phones. A country that is the poorest in the Western Hemisphere I wonder where they get the money for these "luxuries?" Plus, I see a lot of signs for a national lottery! AMAZING!</i><br />
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<i>I've tried to take a number of "postcard" pictures of Haiti. It's such a beautiful country! However, no matter where you look you can't see the beauty of this country without seeing the devastation and the poverty. I think God has done that on purpose - He doesn't want me to forget that the people here are truly struggling and have real needs.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9yGJcmgRG6QlrUI-9PFJGu-FjgoaPnOB-2hCUMehEs2YyVQvgZ8y8oDVm9aTg_dhdkrCJP70BHLuC4VOYbCYMw1n0qYNISGjRl3jpJnLTmpukXeuApOon5XXpxTez2LewF6lH9T6DXs/s1600/IMG_5585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9yGJcmgRG6QlrUI-9PFJGu-FjgoaPnOB-2hCUMehEs2YyVQvgZ8y8oDVm9aTg_dhdkrCJP70BHLuC4VOYbCYMw1n0qYNISGjRl3jpJnLTmpukXeuApOon5XXpxTez2LewF6lH9T6DXs/s1600/IMG_5585.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a><i>On our way to the next school we passed a beautiful housing complex. There were hundreds of apartment homes - all vacant! I was told that the reasons were: 1 - the trees had been torn down, 2 - too far from any market, and 3 - too much red tape to qualify. Seems like when the government thinks they are doing some favors they really are not helping at all. Sound a little familiar?</i><br />
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<i>We also passed one of the largest tent cities in the country. Nearly four years after the quake people are still living in makeshift tents. There are so many unfinished construction projects throughout the country. I was told that most construction costs nearly $1,000 per square meter! An average size house could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. No wonder nothing is finished.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yYY-qyilOyj4ouSn4wcB2C7nAJRM3VITL4PInNllQjxrHuUsWfcHkeAa_8RqAbXYBWRBSsdqsr27IeDxvL7sLH9eUY0JgOVrESIQa61WjuraF3RZul2JdDBE1rMuDkYdiGbLFYa29CQ/s1600/2013-10-11+10.00.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yYY-qyilOyj4ouSn4wcB2C7nAJRM3VITL4PInNllQjxrHuUsWfcHkeAa_8RqAbXYBWRBSsdqsr27IeDxvL7sLH9eUY0JgOVrESIQa61WjuraF3RZul2JdDBE1rMuDkYdiGbLFYa29CQ/s1600/2013-10-11+10.00.31.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><i>We stopped by the only monument to those that lost their lives in the earthquake. At one time it was a huge crater that was used as a place to dump the bodies found. The earthquake caused nearly 300,000 people to lose their lives and 200,000 are buried at this site. A private citizen built the monument because he thinks his wife is buried here. The place is eerily quiet. That place made a huge impact on me.</i> (I found a rock there that I have to this day. I have it to remind me of those that survived the quake and continue to struggle. I pray for them daily).<br />
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<i>The second school we visited had nearly 180 students. The youngest was about 3 years old. We had a great time here. Sang and played - actually had one little girl bounce me out of musical chairs! She thought it was funny a little thing like her was able get me, a big guy, out of the way! So far on this trip we haven't been confronted with poverty or heartbreak. I mean, we've seen it at the schools and through the windows of our SUVs but not really face-to-face. Until...</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKV7wdqlPaV-7t0klaSXo_wwPb3Y3BmlpNMxAvvh9sBuiz3AFDLnA4QxgyWxNndIGrx0WmnweJezhhdRcvs6gdymgi79PyGxssIDYYIwBYO6wfPGQaYlZWvnVy3UImXQlmWOwSnw0LESE/s1600/Photo+Oct+07,+11+59+35+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKV7wdqlPaV-7t0klaSXo_wwPb3Y3BmlpNMxAvvh9sBuiz3AFDLnA4QxgyWxNndIGrx0WmnweJezhhdRcvs6gdymgi79PyGxssIDYYIwBYO6wfPGQaYlZWvnVy3UImXQlmWOwSnw0LESE/s1600/Photo+Oct+07,+11+59+35+PM.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><i>The third school of the day was the poorest yet. The buildings were made of grass walls and tin roofs. When we pulled up we were greeted at the gate with cheers and songs. I kinda felt like a rock star! I had the chance to visit with a sweet little girl. She didn't say much as we sat together and colored. Her face said enough. Once I showed the picture I took of her on my phone she opened up a little and smiled.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13xmWPDl8R3nHLR07Y50EnllfGpEHwFrUrJYH7FMtnI5LdM98X272_Y3f4WIbMS21uGefxhS1033piyhUXhv3-6KfzUKaiz0p2SYdARkW1LoEYVcOoD4LHw6r2-I3QTKgCYi5_C_pt4o/s1600/IMG_5861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13xmWPDl8R3nHLR07Y50EnllfGpEHwFrUrJYH7FMtnI5LdM98X272_Y3f4WIbMS21uGefxhS1033piyhUXhv3-6KfzUKaiz0p2SYdARkW1LoEYVcOoD4LHw6r2-I3QTKgCYi5_C_pt4o/s1600/IMG_5861.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a><i>While we were there we also had the chance to visit a family at their home. At first I was little aprehensive about this visit. I don't think I do to well in those situations. We began our walk which seemed to be for miles </i>(remember - I'm in long pants and in 98 degree heat with a heat index of 130 degree plus).<i> We passed through a few homesteads and farms and finally made it to the family we were going to visit. The father was a former government messenger who lost his position when the new president came in to power. He now farms bananas and eggplant. </i><i>While we were talking he shared how much he appreciates the work of Cross and our partnership with them. He was grateful for the school we were supporting because he knows his children will get an education and have at least one meal a day.</i><br />
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<i>Our final vist was to Together in Christ (TIC). This place is amazing! A school, an orphanage, and even a place where area pastors can be equipped. We met with Gladys and her husband Pastor "Henry" who both shared how the property was acquired and what they have done in the last several years. The verse they live by is <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%207:14&version=NIV" target="_blank">1 Samuel 7:14 </a>and they wish for me to pray that their children will receive kindness. They don't want us to pray for an easy life but to pray for them to be stronger people.</i><br />
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<i>What a overwhelming day! So much emotion and so many thoughts. What do I do with all this?</i><br />
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My final journal entry will be posted later.Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-26579850047686098942013-10-16T07:45:00.000-04:002014-07-31T07:10:19.765-04:00Haiti Journal - Day 1Well it's been a week since I was in Haiti and I've had so many ask about my trip. Obviously I wish I could share everything that I experienced but that would take more time than most have available. After a lot of thought I have decided to share my journal that I kept while in Haiti. Today's post is from my first day. I hope that it will adequately share how I was feeling.<br />
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<i>Haiti - Day 1</i><br />
<i>After a turbulent flight to Florida and a good dinner with mom and the Cross Team I hoped to get a good nights rest but I tossed a lot, not quite getting comfortable. Before I knew it, 3am came around and it was time to get up and prepare for the trip.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEvANJZ2uT5y5ITCUh5StheyvpHpBM0m5ZoykkGdaiShkiXOk291321AMlorEQSAJOThN1Am4ITAZbTrHLFykz0Y_X7qJHByYKE86ACloEyeMvAAbWLADpMByLOICelANbHHyCE8IwZk/s1600/little+boy+praying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEvANJZ2uT5y5ITCUh5StheyvpHpBM0m5ZoykkGdaiShkiXOk291321AMlorEQSAJOThN1Am4ITAZbTrHLFykz0Y_X7qJHByYKE86ACloEyeMvAAbWLADpMByLOICelANbHHyCE8IwZk/s200/little+boy+praying.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><i>Once we arrive at the airport I began to feel those anxious feelings - what am I doing? How will this affect me? Even now, as I'm on the plane, I still feel lost in all of this. It all feels surreal.</i><br />
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<i>(This part of the journal entry was written at the end of the day)</i><br />
<i>We visiting 3 schools today. The word that best describes my feelings is "overwhelmed." The first school, Santo School, they sang and quoted Psalm 23. These were some of the sweetest faces that I've seen. One little guy - while we were praying - had such a precious face while praying.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zgnd8vFBBbqk5Izgq_l6wZmjRSFWfiwBJBNlvOAk0c3uuj4XW1Pr3ekBHQLBaNrhAsgvAGmlnic5Vztk3SGf2iaVJOxIGJhEKC2dq7upvGKtN5QQ9lJ_PJiqMPr0_EQzeifMggiG86U/s1600/2013-10-07+00.04.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zgnd8vFBBbqk5Izgq_l6wZmjRSFWfiwBJBNlvOAk0c3uuj4XW1Pr3ekBHQLBaNrhAsgvAGmlnic5Vztk3SGf2iaVJOxIGJhEKC2dq7upvGKtN5QQ9lJ_PJiqMPr0_EQzeifMggiG86U/s200/2013-10-07+00.04.59.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><i>The next school was Bute Boyer (sp?). The director of the school is the son of the founder who was killed during the earthquake. The school building crumbled on him. The school (year) started late and had only 7 students the first day. Today there were about 20-30. I had the chance to serve lunch to the students. </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnzWtpT2a5gGJwIk0lAoSlctmYHzPVXSOuNv1Pst4ubzNIjIv9gRtdX5uvVrKb1sBcjWXx_sl4DG7y3wZUmbvQEndj2D1VKiWWytGFDTiOxD-P2Jnpw9OSivLsaSUf3NiP8pyzQKji1u8/s1600/little+boy+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnzWtpT2a5gGJwIk0lAoSlctmYHzPVXSOuNv1Pst4ubzNIjIv9gRtdX5uvVrKb1sBcjWXx_sl4DG7y3wZUmbvQEndj2D1VKiWWytGFDTiOxD-P2Jnpw9OSivLsaSUf3NiP8pyzQKji1u8/s200/little+boy+smile.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><i>The last school, School of the Good Sower, is a school and orphanage. They also have a special needs wing. These children are the forgotten ones. Made eye contact with a little boy there who just lit up! What a precious smile he has! There was one little girl who was found in a trash heap. This was an amazing day! Tomorrow promises to be another great one. I'm so grateful for the team around me - especially Frank Sontag. Frank is becoming a good friend.</i><br />
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Tomorrow I will have my journal entry for day 2.<br />
<br />Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-58827621455198770612013-09-12T07:01:00.001-04:002013-09-12T07:01:32.705-04:00Georgia Gold - Sautee Shadows<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcn0HBJAadgRs8xnIN4Lrp2xrUwaa8na7VQM15XKJqqXxdH4wrG-1xlHVbp3gNvU-VlkItt8uU5kV8l9ktWmKATu6QiWOtvGUqhQCmbbv59bONTN-HgE6xluZF4KNydSOscjokeOf81GQ/s1600/SauteeShadowsCover300RGB+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcn0HBJAadgRs8xnIN4Lrp2xrUwaa8na7VQM15XKJqqXxdH4wrG-1xlHVbp3gNvU-VlkItt8uU5kV8l9ktWmKATu6QiWOtvGUqhQCmbbv59bONTN-HgE6xluZF4KNydSOscjokeOf81GQ/s1600/SauteeShadowsCover300RGB+(3).jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>I recently had the chance to talk with native Georgia resident Denise Weimer about her newly released book in a new series that traces the history of northeast Georgia (click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/85244/media_files/200904/download/3/file_128kb.mp3" target="_blank">here</a> for the interview). Book one of <strong><em>The Georgia Gold Series</em></strong>, entitled <strong><em>Sautee Shadows</em></strong>, is a sweeping saga of four families whose lives intertwine through romance, adventure and murder. A book for everyone!<br />
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The story traces the character Richard Randall amd his family as they move from New York to Savanah to establish a shipping company. Richard's son Jack struggles to fit in to the southern culture which only intensifies with the death of his mother. Evantually the Randalls do like most of the influential families of the area and build a summer home in the Habersham county foothills. Jack sees the future railroad tourism as a way to make a good living and purchases a hotel. He soon meets an unexpected competitor in the young and lovely Mahala Franklin.<br />
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Mahala, orphaned daughter of a man murdered for his gold and part Cherokee Indian on her mother's side, was raised by a family in the Sautee Valley and eventually torn from them by her maternal grandmother as a young teen. Mahala has been determined to find out what happened to her father and his gold by tracing the clues her father left behind. Is her father's murderer still among them?<br />
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Book two of <strong><em>The Georgia Gold Series</em></strong>, <em><strong>The Gray Divide</strong></em>, will be released later in September. To learn where Denise will be signing her books or to learn more about her writings check out her website <a href="http://deniseweimerbooks.webs.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9TALujsELJpLePnWCxFpxA7NnJcwi4-gJ2yUDummsZHGG87jj3hFuMTmuPGJCuOgv-IPiBl0oW4tMqiWeSoQee8oeJPnfFAUIBMDBAUbzIWr-5-Mc42cVHpMGdZ52lVh8NdC2LZh3Do/s1600/Weimer+head+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9TALujsELJpLePnWCxFpxA7NnJcwi4-gJ2yUDummsZHGG87jj3hFuMTmuPGJCuOgv-IPiBl0oW4tMqiWeSoQee8oeJPnfFAUIBMDBAUbzIWr-5-Mc42cVHpMGdZ52lVh8NdC2LZh3Do/s1600/Weimer+head+shot.jpg" /></a>Denise recieved her degree in journalism with a minor in history from Asbury University. Her novella, Redeeming Grace, has recieved high praise. Plus, her articles about Northeast Georgia have appeared in a number of regional publications. She's a wife and mother, a life-long historian, and the director of the mid-1800s dance group, 1860s Civilian Society of Georgia. For more information on DeniseMike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-76530294031231712432013-09-11T13:21:00.000-04:002013-09-11T13:21:28.366-04:00Remembering 9-11-01<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's hard to believe that it's been 12 years since that day. Twelve years since the day that changed everything. I remember it like it was yesterday. I guess that's how those that experienced Pearl Harbor or those that witnessed the assignation of President Kennedy feel. I will always remember 9-11-01.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was working for In Touch Ministries. My co-worker and I were attending a regional religious broadcasters event in Michigan and were having a great time. It's always good to see old friends and make new ones at events like that one. The night before we heard a great message from a local pastor and were blessed by music from Charles Billingsley and Sela. I went to bed that evening feeling very relaxed. That wouldn't last too long.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The next morning I got up a little earlier than normal and took my time getting ready for the day. There were no televisions in the rooms so I still had not heard of the horror that was taking place in New York. Once ready for the day I made my way to the dining hall for a much needed breakfast. Once I entered the building I noticed a number of my colleagues gathered around the only television on the premises discussing some accident that had just happened.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I walked up to a good friend of mine, Les Lamborn, and asked what was going on. He told me a plane had struck one of World Trade Center buildings. I was a little shocked but thought it was one of those smaller planes where the pilot had lost control. I heard more of the report on Fox News when it was said that it was larger plane. I couldn't believe it. The day was gorgeous both in Michigan and in New York. What could have possibly gone wrong.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I entered the discussion we all watched as the second plane hit! At that point we knew this was a planned attack! It had to be! Then more news of a plane hitting the Pentagon and a little while later another plane going down in Pennsylvania. What was going on!?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was on the phone with my wife in Atlanta and my co-workers at In Touch. Everyone worried and wondering how we were going to get home. My partner and I were on the phone calling rental car companies to secure a vehicle. I found out that my in-laws were stuck in Detroit and had no where to go and no way of getting home.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Once we got a car we were on our way to Detroit to pick up my in-laws and then on our way to Atlanta. To say the least, this was one of the most stressful days in my life. I look back on it and see how God did some marvelous things to let everyone know that He was in control.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This morning during my show I had my friend Les call in to share some words with my audience. To hear his encouragement click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/85243/media_files/200902/download/3/file_128kb.mp3" target="_blank">here</a>. I pray that on this day of remembrance we never forget those that gave the ultimate sacrifice and what God did in the days and months that followed.</span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-87231033536016483212013-07-15T11:05:00.001-04:002013-07-15T11:05:07.035-04:00One Question<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62aLYMWOqzES70HGbZd8qlcKHKb16pzq6XjL0jvSvIwn3dDx3w3GZCB75B0-rO4v9b6_lY7wiV9RPQtXYOBCqcmDtfwJPOhrZso4HMdaienOHUKeaS6gQosAfbA9BhhNIzm9DpqnNtkY/s1600/ken+coleman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62aLYMWOqzES70HGbZd8qlcKHKb16pzq6XjL0jvSvIwn3dDx3w3GZCB75B0-rO4v9b6_lY7wiV9RPQtXYOBCqcmDtfwJPOhrZso4HMdaienOHUKeaS6gQosAfbA9BhhNIzm9DpqnNtkY/s320/ken+coleman.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you could ask one question to the people you admire the most what would that one question be? Do you have a habit of asking questions - being inquisitive? <a href="http://www.kencolemanshow.com/" target="_blank">Ken Coleman</a>, a radio talk show host and emcee of the Catalyst Conferences, has made a career of asking questions - tough questions - to those that have made a difference in our culture.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWV5e6wJk0SdBIIygzu3D-mA_WRO3q6CKbtP1jKS3EDs0oazCAOcuFVN5ZWnUKtu5tQ4jwi7PxbrVB8eB7UeU0D6CqjmKOYbZi5wH_xcPEmd5lZt9TSR3Rw6ifnS2xvJqiqOvBSDV8QiA/s1600/one+question.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWV5e6wJk0SdBIIygzu3D-mA_WRO3q6CKbtP1jKS3EDs0oazCAOcuFVN5ZWnUKtu5tQ4jwi7PxbrVB8eB7UeU0D6CqjmKOYbZi5wH_xcPEmd5lZt9TSR3Rw6ifnS2xvJqiqOvBSDV8QiA/s320/one+question.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In his latest book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/145167502X/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=145167502X&linkCode=as2&tag=kencolsho0a-20" target="_blank"><i>One Question: Life-Changing Answers from Today's Leading Voices</i></a>, Ken Coleman invites you to listen in on as he talks with some of the most notable leaders, authors, politicians and newsmakers of our time. You will be inspired and motivated by some of their responses.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ken uses conversational style of interviewing to get to the heart of three primary areas: Succeeding, Surviving, and Sustaining. For example:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">What is<b> Coach Tony Dungy's</b> advice for success while maintaining integirty?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">How does <b>Dan Cathy</b> of Chic-fil-A view the value of passing the torch of leadership through the generations?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">What does <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author <b>Jim Collins</b> believe to be the biggest roadblock to achieving success?</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">Filled with not only portions of his interviews but also personal stories, Ken gives the reader a source of wisdom that will last for years to come.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the pleasure of flipping the tables on Ken and interviewed him on the power of asking questions and what he personally gleaned from his interviews for the book. To listen, click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/83828/media_files/197649/download/3/file_128kb.mp3" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<br />Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-39044373363672619942013-06-24T08:10:00.000-04:002013-06-24T08:10:28.212-04:00The Soul of Atlas<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSGyAUshGRIuBcagYkVpvHu2RdqR8rXXM_pl5gPiLBZ48VOy1I_Y_6E6-CZ_JDGn1PlNJmqW6c4-E3e9b7anENjMM7OCDULw_-iFpgBRwqhgAgUzde5xP9OQb77lfHSRAvfT8Fml-snA/s1600/mq1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSGyAUshGRIuBcagYkVpvHu2RdqR8rXXM_pl5gPiLBZ48VOy1I_Y_6E6-CZ_JDGn1PlNJmqW6c4-E3e9b7anENjMM7OCDULw_-iFpgBRwqhgAgUzde5xP9OQb77lfHSRAvfT8Fml-snA/s1600/mq1.png" height="200" width="200" /></a>Mark David Henderson, author of the book <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Soul-Atlas-Christianity-Common/dp/0988329506/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372074557&sr=8-1&keywords=soul+of+atlas" target="_blank">The Soul of Atlas</a></i>, looks to bring together the worldviews of Christianity, that he learned from his biological father, with objectivism, an area of thought that he learned from his step-father. He begins his quest with this question, "Do the two most influential books in modern culture, the Bible and Aya Rand's <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Shrugged-Ayn-Rand/dp/0452011876/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372074586&sr=8-1&keywords=atlas+shrugged" target="_blank">Atlas Shrugged</a></i>, share common ground?"<br />
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I had the chance to talk with Henderson about his book, life with competing worldviews and how he has reconciled his Faith in Christ with his upbringing. The Soul of Atlas attempts to cover both the biblical worldview and Rand's objectivism in areas like: capitalism, relationships, reason, meaning and more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAXXbgx2cOuq7gRI2WUnZ860QBer5WvheWKH_mh6ObHgQChfAbn6OnYTGaTvuI-tad442OfRSBn0Tc-kRN2h4Wy-ni4uMST0eqHoRTblJL3uFi9xLXdCyPIlA8i8PvM-qaiglWxoYJ54/s1600/soulofatlas+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAXXbgx2cOuq7gRI2WUnZ860QBer5WvheWKH_mh6ObHgQChfAbn6OnYTGaTvuI-tad442OfRSBn0Tc-kRN2h4Wy-ni4uMST0eqHoRTblJL3uFi9xLXdCyPIlA8i8PvM-qaiglWxoYJ54/s1600/soulofatlas+cover.jpg" /></a>Probably the most fascinating part of Henderson's book was his thoughtful look at Rand's hero in <i>Atlas Shrugged</i>, John Galt. Reading Rand's book, you can't escape how closely Galt parallels Jesus Christ (despite Rand's hostility to religion). According to Henderson, "When you understand that Jesus is not only the Ideal Man, but that he is the One who brings us to Joy, all of the good things in your life will pale in he comparison to His surpassing greatness."<br />
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Henderson, in a recent interview with The Christian Post and echoed in my conversation with him, said, "My hope isthat as Christians and followers of Ayn Rand, or even more broadly, as people of faith and reason come together I want them to find common ground so that we can accomplish much more together than we would separately."<br />
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To learn more about Mark D. Henderson and his book check out his web site, <a href="http://www.soulofatlas.com/">www.soulofatlas.com</a>. To listen to my conversation with Mark, click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/83385/media_files/196697/download/3/file_128kb.mp3" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Atlas Shrugged is now a movie (Mark's step-father is one of the producers)! Parts one and two have already been released with the third part to be coming soon. Here are the trailers for parts 1 and 2:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6W07bFa4TzM" width="500"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/AF9QT43uDQU" width="500"></iframe><br />Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-37622679013879122012013-06-13T14:13:00.000-04:002013-06-13T14:13:54.517-04:00A Heart for Lebanon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LaK1B8dqm2ctLsQNs6g1wjU3a7EUVn3E_A0MdBRV1DThOeRPLkc2j_6qf-zMIMg5ZQ8DKRBBXaaiezX54GGATPfvgdZStFnQLRFYWZ7yNlsZHnaOJd-A-dWmn-faHmqlvUt9FiJyLNI/s1600/heart+for+lebanon.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LaK1B8dqm2ctLsQNs6g1wjU3a7EUVn3E_A0MdBRV1DThOeRPLkc2j_6qf-zMIMg5ZQ8DKRBBXaaiezX54GGATPfvgdZStFnQLRFYWZ7yNlsZHnaOJd-A-dWmn-faHmqlvUt9FiJyLNI/s200/heart+for+lebanon.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This morning I had on my show Camille Milke of <a href="http://www.heartforlebanon.org/" target="_blank">Heart for Lebanon</a>. He shared on the issues that have come about due to the over 4,000 refugees flowing into the country (and you thought the US had an immigration problem). Click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/83086/media_files/196065/download/3/file_128kb.mp3" target="_blank">here</a> to listen and visit their website <a href="http://www.heartforlebanon.org/" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more on how you can help this wonderful ministry.</span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-31683875110225031472013-05-09T09:59:00.001-04:002013-05-09T09:59:01.508-04:00Confessons of a Scholarship Winner<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6-Tn36ej1Y6jlVWokAE_379G2o36EkgCIekgQUpnjxb4HGB9gft9kqoF2ydLFQVPmXBpm4pzYQG_1YE8Q21UwM05jKQhWdTHundehVKpzYPyClJZ5JKogDwV7yaBAfRYl62NZwH0RXg/s1600/k+ellis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6-Tn36ej1Y6jlVWokAE_379G2o36EkgCIekgQUpnjxb4HGB9gft9kqoF2ydLFQVPmXBpm4pzYQG_1YE8Q21UwM05jKQhWdTHundehVKpzYPyClJZ5JKogDwV7yaBAfRYl62NZwH0RXg/s1600/k+ellis.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">It's that time of year again! A chapter in life is about to be concluded and a new one to begin! GRADUATION! High school students around the country will be anxiously waiting to hear their name called, walk across the platform and receive their diploma! I remember my high school graduation like it was yesterday (in reality it was a few decades ago) and the excitement of moving ahead to a new life. What I didn't realize was how much money it was going to take to make that move.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kMoSv0MrWSFAJ0LSP_1MbpOiDOLGRooID46SqYPO_8UNo0xJ07_40piYDDXz0qFqr3ImyjJMLoCqqXI1csVbCh5OwwSHb6jSyqOiAn7xSBkiURYpjM65DZhFGAyAg7CUniCdOg9M8GA/s1600/confessions.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kMoSv0MrWSFAJ0LSP_1MbpOiDOLGRooID46SqYPO_8UNo0xJ07_40piYDDXz0qFqr3ImyjJMLoCqqXI1csVbCh5OwwSHb6jSyqOiAn7xSBkiURYpjM65DZhFGAyAg7CUniCdOg9M8GA/s1600/confessions.JPG" height="320" width="204" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">College education is becoming more and more expensive and yet there are over 1.5 million scholarships available that total over $3 billion just waiting to be awarded. What does it take to qualify for those scholarships? What kind of grades are needed? What about test scores? Are the applications difficult? Where can I find help to apply? All these questions and more are answered in Kristina's book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Scholarship-Winner-Secrets-College-/dp/1617951579/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368107443&sr=8-1&keywords=confessions+of+a+scholarship+winner" target="_blank"><i>Confessions of Scholarship Winner</i></a>. Kristina shares, on her first day of high school, how she was told by her single mom that if she
wanted to go college she would need to find the money because they
didn't have it. That put Kristina on the quest to find the money needed
to realize her dream. Not only did she find money for college but also money for graduate and post-graduate work.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the chance to talk with Kristina and ask her some of the questions I, as a parent of a soon-to-be college student, had and what I needed to do help my son achieve his goals. She gave me a lot of advice and encouragement from explaining the ins and outs of college financing and how to find niche scholarship offerings to sound advice on nailing a scholarship application and seeking out letters of recommendation. Kristina's desire is to make sure that money is not the reason a student is unable to go to college.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">To listen to me and Kristina's conversation click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/82152/media_files/193922/download/3/file_128kb.mp3" target="_blank">here</a>. To learn more about Kristina's book check our her web site, <a href="http://thecollegeninja.com/profile/3po8606xw5fq6?xg_source=activity" target="_blank">The College Ninja</a>.</span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-22543214997423070942013-04-03T09:54:00.002-04:002013-04-03T09:58:38.117-04:00Iscariot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cnjtFUqFZbpiOn9C47M0EZe6m_BaOTbwTsqLefxAG2EHyt5k9zSBaD45ixiv5Kq1xLYxS6hrOC4lKK-74kOlJ_ESqD-1IwVc3vQbeIbCNtiApchM8weLpbtmes90Wkqt608ojIxz1Bw/s1600/ToscaLee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1cnjtFUqFZbpiOn9C47M0EZe6m_BaOTbwTsqLefxAG2EHyt5k9zSBaD45ixiv5Kq1xLYxS6hrOC4lKK-74kOlJ_ESqD-1IwVc3vQbeIbCNtiApchM8weLpbtmes90Wkqt608ojIxz1Bw/s1600/ToscaLee.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">New York Times best-selling author Tosca Lee has released a new novel on the life of Judas entitled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Iscariot-Novel-Judas-Tosca-Lee/dp/1451683766/ref=la_B001JPCC42_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1364995806&sr=1-1"><i>Iscariot: A Novel of Judas</i></a>. She builds the story line on extensive research on the life and times of Judas and has created a fantastic story that leaves the reader asking, "Would I have done the same thing?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9qmgp8KFRwdwIFvNb2BskAIIh021gQoOhBPTVlBtTcnlpFrWeEqVsyjKY-9F1BFGsraRFS6iV_JWFM4lFq2FqDXwB-g_d8GHOfqA2LFkdJgjvSBncA9xsaFUdUN4xCbvi79CHkYs4f8/s1600/iscariot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9qmgp8KFRwdwIFvNb2BskAIIh021gQoOhBPTVlBtTcnlpFrWeEqVsyjKY-9F1BFGsraRFS6iV_JWFM4lFq2FqDXwB-g_d8GHOfqA2LFkdJgjvSBncA9xsaFUdUN4xCbvi79CHkYs4f8/s1600/iscariot.jpg" height="200" width="180" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Judas, the only disciple that Jesus called, "friend", is most known for his betrayal of Christ and has been the personification of evil. However, Tosca's fictional account of Judas shows that we all err in ways that make sense to us and we never intend to commit evil acts. Her years of research brings the times of Christ to life that I have never seen.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tosca gives the reader another view of Judas' life and asks the questions, "Was Judas' part in Jesus life pre-planned or outright betrayal?" She says, "As I wrestled with these questions and the ideas of religious agenda, legalism, personal stymie, and spiritual failure, I could not help but see myself in Judas - at times, too well." She also said, "One of the things I looked forward to the most in the writing of this book was the opportunity to slip into the skin of one of those closest to Jesus. To sit, even virtually, at his side. Ultimately, this novel became as much about the person of Jesus as Judas."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In her unique and creative style that you find in her other books (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Havah-Tosca-Lee/dp/1433668793"><i>Havah: The Story of Eve</i></a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Demon-Memoir-Tosca-Lee/dp/1433668807/ref=la_B001JPCC42_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1364995728&sr=1-4"><i>Demon: A Memoir</i></a>) you will be transported into a story line that will grip your heart and force you to ask yourself, "Am I any different?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">To listen to my conversation with one of my favorite authors click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/81027/media_files/191286/download/3/file_128kb.mp3">here</a>.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oot5bI7lDYE" width="500"></iframe><br />Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-35649569813870620232013-02-20T10:16:00.000-05:002013-02-20T10:16:02.025-05:00What Will You Do Today?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRRzPDkW-BsGTZqFWUXex-Cdn_Y0Xpcf6HwSs4XnO2bBmQiONwZXTgNK3BdJypA4R0PewAg2jpM-KLW4hASE5sXeX2hxg3HINJrnDpcfsLAfwbiTqD_s_H4wta54OFq0Qol0mYC_aT3w/s1600/today.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRRzPDkW-BsGTZqFWUXex-Cdn_Y0Xpcf6HwSs4XnO2bBmQiONwZXTgNK3BdJypA4R0PewAg2jpM-KLW4hASE5sXeX2hxg3HINJrnDpcfsLAfwbiTqD_s_H4wta54OFq0Qol0mYC_aT3w/s320/today.jpg" width="235" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Every February some look
at a groundhog to let them know if we are going to have an early spring or
another few weeks of winter.<span> </span>In
Pennsylvania they make it a huge event that rivals most high school football
games.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">This is such a
phenomenon that there’s even a pretty popular movie entitled “Groundhog Day.” The
movie goes beyond the holiday to ask a poignant question, “What would you do if
you could repeat today?”<span> </span>Recently, I got
to thinking about that very question. What if God were to allow me to repeat
this day over and over again? What would I do with those 24 hours?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What would you do?<span> </span>There are so many things that I feel we all
would like to do over again.<span> </span>There are
probably words we would want to say – or not say.<span> </span>There would be places where we would want to
go.<span> </span>Unfortunately, we are only given
these 24 hours to do the things God would have us do.<span> </span>According to Scripture we are not even
guaranteed tomorrow.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>God has given us today
to share with others; to give of ourselves; to minister and encourage.<span> </span></span></span></div>
Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-44265755100172465912013-02-15T11:35:00.001-05:002013-02-15T11:35:45.307-05:00Red Letter Christians<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvWStO9fNyGLYNrvLwrw5odIT_oeoGwtUSdqjlbizEdWWO6vHu27oVtCz0p2c36OlbeiA1-imqQOy7ddWSYBzYeI1NEWufKW0CZASM7dNZ6D9L42hyphenhyphenR3XnHAp4Doj5zDMZ3Q9Fk8fE3c/s1600/red+letter+cover.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvWStO9fNyGLYNrvLwrw5odIT_oeoGwtUSdqjlbizEdWWO6vHu27oVtCz0p2c36OlbeiA1-imqQOy7ddWSYBzYeI1NEWufKW0CZASM7dNZ6D9L42hyphenhyphenR3XnHAp4Doj5zDMZ3Q9Fk8fE3c/s200/red+letter+cover.bmp" uea="true" width="130" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In their new book, <strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Red-Letter-Revolution-Jesus-Really/dp/1400204186/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1360945849&sr=1-1&keywords=red+letter+revolution">Red Letter Revolution</a></strong>, <a href="http://www.tonycampolo.org/">Tony Campolo</a> and <a href="http://www.thesimpleway.org/shane/">Shane Claiborne</a> talk openly about the teaching's of Jesys and how they give Christians a map for living out their faith in a broken world. Imagine living in this broken world in a way that Jesus described in His Sermon on the Mount.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpw0aWjtS00lIrknGuhgmf-5kp42quJg0XtjGEfpjCqajr1uR3axaD7jG1xr6Encya_cxRp4Lpfz31AlxX4IyMhuet94c6yJTYVYsCG1dRlvWef98W1K4VxKjn6KFLs3NL_HpDjDY3IQ4/s1600/tony+campolo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpw0aWjtS00lIrknGuhgmf-5kp42quJg0XtjGEfpjCqajr1uR3axaD7jG1xr6Encya_cxRp4Lpfz31AlxX4IyMhuet94c6yJTYVYsCG1dRlvWef98W1K4VxKjn6KFLs3NL_HpDjDY3IQ4/s1600/tony+campolo.jpg" uea="true" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the opportunity to talk with Tony about this compelling new book and the challenges that I felt while reading it. I was surprised to learn that he was challenged in the same way. I've had the pleasure of talking with Tony a number of times over the years and have found myself challenged and encouraged. You might not agree with everything he says, but you will come away with fresh ideas and will be compelled to go back to the red letters in your Bible.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To listen to our conversation click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/79342/media_files/187201/download/3/file_128kb.mp3">here</a>. If you would like to learn more about the Red Letter Revolution and to stay informed check out their web site <a href="http://www.redletterchristians.org/">here</a>.</span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-34572134146925459982013-01-29T09:47:00.000-05:002013-01-29T09:47:14.088-05:00As I See It - An Interview with Tom Sullivan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxp7VmL8nacN1BzbUWsAfpz7i3VgeIGZydlPPo3_k5IWqyndh9v4_YrVVjdB5dukgRDJEUDQbBB9J1DoEnH6MCuQAwfY62UFA8fpgUleKCadbiJigL1tJGGKCg1abDwW6okwL7c8vrRc/s1600/tom_sullivan_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxp7VmL8nacN1BzbUWsAfpz7i3VgeIGZydlPPo3_k5IWqyndh9v4_YrVVjdB5dukgRDJEUDQbBB9J1DoEnH6MCuQAwfY62UFA8fpgUleKCadbiJigL1tJGGKCg1abDwW6okwL7c8vrRc/s1600/tom_sullivan_4.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Born prematurely in 1947 and as a result of too much oxygen, <a href="http://sullivanlive.com/">Tom Sullivan</a> lost his eyesight. Growing up feeling isolated in a fenced backyard, he heard the sounds of the world around him and he wanted to be a part of it. Everything changed when he decided to jump the fence and discover what was on the other side.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdLDANvOO9-yqGqP9V1laYuqVO4bLdwseNJ1c8vVkryjtbC4hbkz3fdyT-LgIpoYklHkNoQ37JqOo_FygN77riV6ahOOensKlQeT_UElyu_Zat9ALHwGiI_woXlXTi23UhKWT4RCaEII/s1600/as+i+see+it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdLDANvOO9-yqGqP9V1laYuqVO4bLdwseNJ1c8vVkryjtbC4hbkz3fdyT-LgIpoYklHkNoQ37JqOo_FygN77riV6ahOOensKlQeT_UElyu_Zat9ALHwGiI_woXlXTi23UhKWT4RCaEII/s1600/as+i+see+it.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/As-See-View-Inside-Out/dp/145166351X/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1359388488&sr=1-2&keywords=as+i+see+it"><i>As I See It: A Perspective on Life, Love, and Purpose</i></a> is Tom's inspirational memoir where he shares moments in his life that would allow him to become an acclaimed entertainer, actor, musician and author. But not only that but also how he experienced God's grace during a life-changing moment.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">During my conversation with Tom we talked about the victories and failures in his life and those moments that brought him the greatest joy. To listen click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/78662/media_files/185631/download/3/file_128kb.mp3">here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In <i>As I See It</i>, Tom shares insights he gained including a person's true worth, growing close to others without exceptions, how to celebrate individual uniqueness and thoughts on other issues including:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Societal Labels</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Pride</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Interdependence</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Faith</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tom believes every person living with a disability has a unique gift to offer society. His hope is that we can make a difference by having more interaction with those that are disabled and offering them a proper education and opportunity to participate in some facet of employment. </span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-6830729427154258262013-01-09T14:12:00.000-05:002013-01-09T14:12:12.569-05:00Having a Generous Spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you made any resolutions for the new year? How
are you doing with them? I know sometimes it's easy for us to make goals
like these completely unattainable, and sometimes we get so busy that
we just plain forget about them. I've made a few for this year but the
one I hope I can reach and not forget about is to be more generous.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">That's
my goal - to be more generous. More generous with my time, more
generous with my words and more generous with my finances. Now you may
be thinking to yourself, "Time and words I've got plenty of but money -
that's a different story!" This is what I've learned recently about my
finances - God has given me exactly what I need for my daily living and
exactly what I need to give to others. Some months that amount may be
one thing and some months it may be something else. Either way, God has
made us to be generous just as He is generous.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let
me challenge you this way - ask God how he would have you be generous
with your finances this month. Ask where he would like you to give and
then give with all your heart. If you <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">would</span> like <span style="font-size: large;">to learn more about <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">organizations</span> that need people just like you please drop me a line.</span></span></span></span> </span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-2047356710783086962012-12-21T09:30:00.000-05:002012-12-21T09:30:00.835-05:00A Moment to Remember<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-66370815799034610172012-12-19T10:51:00.000-05:002012-12-19T10:51:53.809-05:00Wrecked<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFne1z9QS93RPy8ET1e2R2ib1Kf5Sa7xAa2j_t2DYLP9bLknVd-pjG86bNY2ifBKUNmIXDav94cbpl_Powk4afleb5XGsWQtyhiRqI8m2ZdFiH316XwYRpTEM5dBP10pS78IqHOxhDK3M/s1600/Jeff_Goins.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFne1z9QS93RPy8ET1e2R2ib1Kf5Sa7xAa2j_t2DYLP9bLknVd-pjG86bNY2ifBKUNmIXDav94cbpl_Powk4afleb5XGsWQtyhiRqI8m2ZdFiH316XwYRpTEM5dBP10pS78IqHOxhDK3M/s1600/Jeff_Goins.png" eea="true" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">As we come into a new year this is the time in which we take a closer look at ourselves and make plans and goals to make a bigger impact on our world. Like many other people, </span><a href="http://goinswriter.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Jeff Goins</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> was on a quest to break free of the mundane and live a life with those types of goals - live a more incredible life that impacts our culture.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In his new book, <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wrecked-Broken-World-Slams-Comfortable/dp/0802404928/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1355932063&sr=1-1&keywords=wrecked">Wrecked: When a Broken World Slams into Your Comfortable Life</a></em>, Goins, a writer and blogger, defines being "wrecked" as an expereince... a time when a broken world slams into our comfortable existence and what is left over is a tension between a lifetime of adventure and our daily routines.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_xeRlrFeyofR8axTRGMc2SBaWv7TX-FtwDEWZK1S0cwWDa2OAyCnT8LinFitkY7VHPI-qLePaCqADAVuB6zax4u790rwiBRTWquCybDXu7qoZtQXmpkJv2lG853EgFfo6HCa4vy2uaA/s1600/Wrecked3Dn-570x855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_xeRlrFeyofR8axTRGMc2SBaWv7TX-FtwDEWZK1S0cwWDa2OAyCnT8LinFitkY7VHPI-qLePaCqADAVuB6zax4u790rwiBRTWquCybDXu7qoZtQXmpkJv2lG853EgFfo6HCa4vy2uaA/s1600/Wrecked3Dn-570x855.jpg" eea="true" height="320" width="212" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Goins explains that being wrecked is often times a season in our lives when we are exposed to the uncomfortable reality of povery, pain and suffering and then return to our "normal" existence. But after that exposure our lives are never the same. We can be wrecked in our daily lives, close to home, at work, school or on mission trips. "When we are wrecked we choose the harder things... the things we don't want to do but we know we need to do in order to grow," says Goins. "It means everything we believe - everything we know about ourselves, our world and our destiny is now in question because we have seen something bigger."</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the chance to talk with Jeff about his expereience in being "wrecked" and what that meant in his life. We also talked about intentionally being wrecked and what that committment means in the life of a follower of Christ. To listen to the conversation click </span><a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/75113/media_files/176849/download/3/file_128kb.mp3"><span style="font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. I want to warn you though -- being wrecked is not easy nor is it fun, but I believe it is a necessity in order to grow in your relationship with Christ. Be prepared to be <strong>WRECKED</strong>!</span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-61960253392787036012012-11-26T10:06:00.000-05:002012-11-27T05:51:58.476-05:00God As He Wants You to Know Him<span style="font-size: large;">I remember reading <a href="http://www.awtozer.com/">A.W. Tozer</a>'s classic,<i> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Knowledge-Holy-Attributes-Meaning-Christian/dp/0060684127/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353942077&sr=1-1&keywords=the+knowledge+of+the+holy+by+a.w.+tozer">The Knowledge of the Holy</a></i>, and in it Tozer says, "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." As a young college student that hit me extremely hard (it still does!). I wanted to know that God was more than what my finite brain could understand. The problem I had was that I was in Bible college and all the books (other than Tozer's) was written from an academic, theologian's perspective and I was always getting lost in the language. That's why I'm grateful for this new book by <a href="http://www.victoriouspraying.com/">Dr. Bill Thrasher</a>. Dr. Thrasher is professor of Bible and Theology at <a href="http://www.mts.edu/">Moody Theological Seminary</a>, and he manages to communicate the most academic biblical truth with the heart and personal connection of a pastor. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-B2e72Pzpwz-gl08gOMThjRbixi2CBHQ1MKvgoLHQA84jBqoLoTSQ-f2AM9ZJqCfaWBxm30obb8928oF_oT0aYZ6-WieU4ygw4pjukYHriNWS1BZMj5K-_AC4Dtlt9b3H72FJM4ZBw98/s1600/Cover_God-as-He-Wants-You-to-Know-Him.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-B2e72Pzpwz-gl08gOMThjRbixi2CBHQ1MKvgoLHQA84jBqoLoTSQ-f2AM9ZJqCfaWBxm30obb8928oF_oT0aYZ6-WieU4ygw4pjukYHriNWS1BZMj5K-_AC4Dtlt9b3H72FJM4ZBw98/s1600/Cover_God-as-He-Wants-You-to-Know-Him.jpg" height="400" width="258" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">His new book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/God-Wants-You-Know-Him/dp/0802404227/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353942036&sr=8-1&keywords=god+as+he+wants+you+to+know+him"><i>God As He Wants You to Know Him</i></a>, Dr. Thrasher teaches:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Why the doctrine of God is so foundational to our Christian life</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">What the symptoms of having a wrong view God and what we can do to correct them</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">There are wrong responses to the goodness of God</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Know God can result in experiencing the deepest desires of one's heart</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">Plus so much more. The book is written in somewhat of a devotional format so it's perfect to start your day with. He also has a complimentary study guide which is available at his web site by clicking <a href="http://www.victoriouspraying.com/?page_id=1252">here</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As the Christmas season approaches and the New Year will be soon upon us, take the time to really know how God wants you to know Him. To listen to my conversation with Dr. Thrasher please click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/74896/media_files/176364/download/3/file_128kb.mp3">here</a> or scroll down to <span style="font-size: large;">the media player<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-86421316156008480212012-09-19T13:51:00.000-04:002012-09-19T13:51:05.239-04:00Love After Marriage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2V16vcTqGrgVCWRfsSwOdcugtoVVT7z9QMHWkD7duAip6uC7XdXL3BPnle-vOU8R0P32HUN8yBavuVssYdfgc4H1p6znJVOFO_qcKIg9jLeoeP5qVrOJnIVuvKllHpACrHERx8wJh2g/s1600/love-after-marriage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2V16vcTqGrgVCWRfsSwOdcugtoVVT7z9QMHWkD7duAip6uC7XdXL3BPnle-vOU8R0P32HUN8yBavuVssYdfgc4H1p6znJVOFO_qcKIg9jLeoeP5qVrOJnIVuvKllHpACrHERx8wJh2g/s200/love-after-marriage.jpg" width="135" /></a></div>
Although every married couple hopes for lifelong happiness together, the current statistics still show that 40% to 50% of modern marriages fall apart. But one couple believes that God can create a miracle out of a marriage. <a href="http://www.loveaftermarriage.org/">Barry and Lori Byrne</a> have released a new book entitled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-After-Marriage-Spiritual-Emotional/dp/0830762027/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348076903&sr=8-1&keywords=love+after+marriage"><i>Love After Marriage</i></a>, and through it share principles that have shaped their marriage as well as those that they have counseled. To listen to my interview with them click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/73571/media_files/173314/download/3/file_128kb.mp3">here</a>.<br />
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In <i>Love After Marriage</i>, the Byrne's share their 30-year marriage testimony and struggles and breakthroughs of other couples that have miraculously resolved marital barriers and discovered a more intimate relationship with each other and God. Those couples who have struggled with conflict, infidelity, shame, addiction, sexual dysfunction, financial hardship and loss of intimacy are now experiencing deeper spiritual, emotional, and physical oneness.<br />
<br />
Some of the principles featured in Love After Marriage include:<br />
<ul>
<li>How to create a relationship of deep intimacy through openness and honesty.</li>
<li>Spiritual strategies that break barriers that can destroy a marriage.</li>
<li>Inviting the Holy Spirit and His power into your marriage.</li>
<li>Establishing and maintaining deeper communication</li>
<li>Having a powerful prayer time with your spouse</li>
<li>Overcoming the Enemies strategies that will destroy your lives by destroying your marriage.</li>
</ul>
Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609414225628645361.post-32855701183431793212012-09-04T10:04:00.000-04:002012-09-04T10:04:13.313-04:00When Helping Hurts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While 40 percent of the world's inhabitants struggle each day to find nourishment, North American Christians are presented with an enormous responsibility to demonstrate compassion to the poor. John's first letter states, "<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597">If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?" (I John 3:17). We need to have a deeper awareness regarding the poor and desire to do something to alleviate it.</span><br />
<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKfP0wV44JSGOCcz-TVV2FJpNeMEz32RTIOsWAZGi1-a4Nja7EPdDhO3VFTQEt2rtlFF7ITxqjh6VeYijPtf5WWSVaoW7YIv2gqAiG3EpL3lLFm81Kwv36NSWw3Sdj5vqKjyhx1-1MaA/s1600/brian+fikkert.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKfP0wV44JSGOCcz-TVV2FJpNeMEz32RTIOsWAZGi1-a4Nja7EPdDhO3VFTQEt2rtlFF7ITxqjh6VeYijPtf5WWSVaoW7YIv2gqAiG3EpL3lLFm81Kwv36NSWw3Sdj5vqKjyhx1-1MaA/s200/brian+fikkert.jpeg" width="142" /></a></div>
<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597">I had the chance to talk with Brian Fikkert, founder and executive director of the <a href="http://www.chalmers.org/">Chalmers Center for Economic Development</a>, who has released a revised edition of his book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/When-Helping-Hurts-Alleviate-Yourself/dp/0802457061/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1330356355&sr=8-7"><i><b>W</b><b>hen Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor and Yourself</b></i></a> about the need to go beyond just helping meet immediate needs and move to bringing the poor back into a right relationship with Jesus. To listen click <a href="http://podcastmachine.com/podcasts/920/episodes/73267/media_files/172662/download/3/file_128kb.mp3">here</a>.</span><br />
<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597">Churches and Christians have faulty assumptions about the causes of poverty and many times those wrong assumptions lead to ministry strategies that do more harm than good. This powerful book addresses these assumptions and moves the reader to a better understanding of the causes of poverty. As Brian as said the church is need of "welfare reform."</span><br />
<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1John-3-17" id="en-NIV-30597"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/27096230" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe><br /></span>Mike Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04838239965825820554noreply@blogger.com0