My Mind From Dust

usiNg mY otHeR bloG

2009-05-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

Update: Just wanted to let everyone know I will primarily be using my other blog. Every once in a while I will come back to here to write my more personal updates but in the meantime check out www.jonathanlaberdia.com. Thanks

FREEbook!

2009-05-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted something for FREE! Well, know is your chance. I will be picking one winner of the text to win a free book giveaway. No strings attached! Text freebook to 41411. The book that will be given away is Death by Love! An amazing book written by Mark Driscoll. Good luck and I hope you win!

reFinIng tHe daRk

2009-04-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

I went to go visit my family in Ohio this weekend. Wow, what an amazing, refreshing, exciting time. Sarah and I visited a church on Sunday, CedarCreek. It was done with excellence, the service was very relevant, and it had good foundational speaking. The speaker over the weekend talked about trials. Something I have heard 100's of times but it still pierced my heart. He talked about how without darkness, fruit would not be able to produce abundantly. Without trials, hard times, and difficulties we would not be able to produce the amazing fruits of the spirit. Yes, hard times are hard! But without those refining moments in our life we would be basic people. For those of you who are going through a hard time make sure that you are in prayer, reading the word, and running after God. God knows what he is doing.

riChaRd

2009-04-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

In college I partnered with some amazing friends to try and launch this ministry called "Making Visible Ministries" The ministry existed to make the bulletin board missionary come to life and to empower the Church congregation to make a visible difference for the voiceless heros. While at Moody we were the first team of Moody students to ever propose a ministry to the college. (We had 3 min. to sell it to the executive board of directors.) Moody did not invest in it but they did offer all of us jobs to farther the institute. Which was awesome but we all turned them down. The ministry went on the back burner for a long time. Until a few weeks ago I just started thinking about it. This is an amazing ministry that just needs some wheels. So, I e-mailed James and asked him to send me the video we made to give people a taste of what they could do to make a difference in the world. (The video was made with limited resources but I think it turned out well.) If you know of anyone who would want to put wheels on this, learn more about it, or just thinks we are crazy. Please send me an e-mail, jlaberdia@gmail.com
---Check it out below---

beComIng moRe proFesSioNal

2009-04-08T14:06:00.000-07:00

Well, recently I have decided that it is time I become more professional. I started up a new site called JonathanLaBerdia.com. I will post different types of blogs than my personal blog (this one), adding some podcasts of lessons I have taught, and other tidbits. Hope you enjoy the site and if you have any questions, comments, or critiques. Please let me know.

Check it out

JonathanLaBerdia.com

niGhtliNe faCe-oFf

2009-03-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

Mark Driscoll was on a Nightline Face-off regarding the question, "Does Satan Exsist?" Watch it, think about it, and study the Bible.

Summary about what a Nightline Face-off is:
"The "Face-Off" is a recurring series where opposing sides debate hot topics. In 2008, Ron Jeremy and Vivid porn star Monique Alexander debated "porn pastor" Craig Gross and former porn producer Donny Pauling about America's addiction to porn. In 2007, the first "Nightline Face-Off: Does God Exist?" pitted actor and evangelical Kirk Cameron and his partner at the Way of the Master against two self-proclaimed atheists. In this third installment, philosopher Deepak Chopra and Bishop Carlton Pearson will face-off against Pastor Mark Driscoll of the Mars Hill Church and Annie Lobert, founder of the Christian ministry "Hookers for Jesus" about the existence of the Devil." (Copied from the ABCnews webpage.)

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Note: It is very scary to watch Bishop Pearson. If I have ever seen a wolf in sheep's clothing this is it. I am glad that God is the judge and not me. Pray for him and his view of God, God's Word, and God's Creation.

a grEat sTatEmeNt

2009-03-29T16:33:00.001-07:00

I was looking at blogs this weekend and ran across one my favorite speakers and old pastor. (James McDonald) He has a statement on his blog that says, "First Vertical, Then Missional" This is not new news or a new thought. This comes from Matthew 22 when Jesus talks about the greatest commandment. We are to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." And then Jesus continues to tell us the second greatest commandment. "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." You can't have the second without the first! We must be worshiping God with our whole heart before we can truly love our neighbors. It concerns me sometimes when churches emphasize the second one and forget the first. They challenge people to go to their community when they themselves don't even love God. The flip side of that is some churches emphasize so much on being internal they forget the community and neighbor God has placed around them. We need to find a greater balance. We need to go vertical, then missional. Think about that, wrestle with it, and keep running after God.

nEw frOm apPlE

2009-03-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me, know that I LOVE APPLE! I have for a very long time, definitely before the whole craze over the ibooks, ipod addicts, and everything apple (I have an eMac in storage!). Anyways, Apple came out with the new ipod shuffle which I think is awesome. Check it out!

juSt aDdiNg soMe phOtos

2009-03-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

I do not always add photos of my life up here so I thought I would this time. It's just some stuff that is going on lately.

Sarah and I at the last SU home game of the year!

Photo from the floor!

Are awesome seats! (The Ruch's took us. They are awesome people!)

The re-designed youth room. (This was re-designed in August but I have not posted any photos or taken any until now.)

tHe stUdentS aRe sO fuNnY

2009-03-02T14:17:00.001-08:00

So, I was out with a group of students and they shared with me how there is this funny video of a panda. I did not believe them until I saw it! You have to check this out.

wanTed tO shArE a soNg

2009-02-26T12:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a song that I love. Hope you enjoy it.

dO somEthiNg fuN todAy

2009-02-23T13:25:00.001-08:00

Today I was thinking how often we don't enjoy the wonderful world God has given us. God gives us mountains, crystal clear oceans, beautiful fields, and so much more. Often times we end up sitting and starring at the television for hours, stay at work for long hours, surf the internet for hours, etc. All of those I have been guilty of. None of those are bad but at times they can consume our lives. Do something exciting today and enjoy God or plan to do something amazing with your family. Life is to short to sit in an office all day. God wants us to enjoy His creation. Go scuba diving, snorkeling, mountain climbing, ski down a mountain, walk in a huge field, go fishing, enjoy the warmth of the sun, but go enjoy God today!

aN inTerVieW

2009-02-19T15:37:00.001-08:00

loVed tHis coMmeNt maDe abOut thE ipHoNe

2009-02-18T20:45:00.000-08:00

One audience question asked why these panelists were so worried about Apple when the iPhone holds only a small percentage of mobile phone marketshare. AT&T's De la Vega summed up the answer: "Because the other 99.5 percent of the industry is trying to copy the iPhone."

This came from Mac Rumors

aweSomE cHurCh reSourCe

2009-02-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

I was listening to Mark Driscoll (nothing new) and he talked real quick about their churches online community gateway. This is not a Christian facebook! It's like a googles maps, meets a potluck registry (like a wedding registry), meets twitter updates, meets a simple and easy way to connect with those around you. Check out the video here for an introduction. Hope you enjoy! (Also, Zondervan just bought this idea from them and it should be for sale soon by them.)

tHis iS a funNy viDeo somEoNe shOwed mE

2009-02-09T14:00:00.001-08:00

God iS sO gReaT

2009-02-09T13:58:00.001-08:00

I just want to praise God today for giving us the Holy Spirit. What a mighty work He is always doing and refining us as God's creation and through this sanctification process. Love you God and thanks!

tHe woRd oF GOD

2009-02-02T13:01:00.000-08:00

Today I was reading a book called Vintage Church. During my reading I came across Matthew 18:20- "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” How many of you have heard this verse at church, during prayer, before a Bible study, etc? I know I have! I have never researched the verse but I have always wondered about it. I just new that it meant if I am with another believe Jesus is there and we are having a "church" moment (A Emergent Church Idea that I disagree with--Church is meant to be with a body of believers and not just with your buddy at the shooting range on Sunday morning. Remember- God is with you when you gather and He is also with you when you are alone. I always thought that passage sounded weird regarding prayer, church, etc.)

I will say this, many Churches have mis-represented this passage! This verse is in reference to church discipline. Maybe this comes to a surprise to some of you. The sad thing is that it came to a surprise to me. My heart breaks for the church who teaches this incorrectly, who has leaders who are misleading the flock, and the lack of preachers who preach the true Word! Pray for the church today. Pray that God will light a fire in the heart of preachers, pastors, and teachers everywhere to be Godly men that will teach the Bible and not what someone else has told them!

I thank God for allowing me to have the heart to open up my Bible and see the truth!

Click this link to read the whole passage, click here

i tHinK mY ibOok diEd

2009-01-19T13:12:00.001-08:00

Opps, I forgot to mention that my ibook G4 is on its last leg or has no legs. Last night the screen went black, fan turned on, and it shut down. I love my old school ibook and hope that I can get some more out of it but it sure does show us how we cannot put are faith in computers. (But I really do love MAC!!!!)

faIth

2009-01-19T13:07:00.000-08:00

Today I was working on my message for Snowscape (winter student retreat). I will be speaking on "What is Faith?" Sounds real easy because I have given a one liner answer so many times about faith, q definition of faith, and dealing with that we do with our faith (read James 2). Real easy when it is a conversation with someone. But, when you have to write a message for students it makes it a bit more difficult. I usually find writing messages very easy but this is one of those times that it took more out of me. I loved writing it, learned a ton, and I am very excited to speak about it.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (ESV)

peoPle wHo dO whAt tHey lOve

2009-01-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

Today I heard that Steve Jobs is taking home is annual salary of ****drum roll**** ONE DOLLAR!!!! (news article) He has been taking home a $1 since 1997. Steve Jobs is a man who does what he loves. He is passioniate and excited about his job. Do you feel the same way when you come into work? Is it something you would still do for not getting paid. Your job should be something that you enjoy and love no matter how much the pay is. (I do understand that you need to make money to put food on the table, health insurance, etc.) Steve Jobs is a true corporate leader. Just think, if all of the auto industry corporate leaders did that? Maybe they wouldn't be needing such a huge bail-out. They want the bail out so they can keep their 7 figure salaries. Apple is more than just a computer company. It is a life style, a way to strive for the best, to look at things in a new light, and to be passionate about something!

WWW.APPLE.COM

note: That is a picture of Steve Jobs.

baCk fRom tHe hoLidaYs

2009-01-05T07:43:00.000-08:00

2 weeks later, 2 flight delays due to weather, 1 hotel room in Detroit, 2,588 miles (flying and driving), 2 different states, 2 different families, 2 different Christmas parties, a New Years Eve Party (which was hanging out with family), and starting another exciting year with my amazing wife Sarah, and now I am finally back in New York. Wow, what a great vacation but also what a busy one. But, it is the new year which means new beginnings, new opportunities, new surprises, and new memories. I hope for those of you that read this blog that you can become a part of some of great memories to come! That is it for now because I need to get back to load of work that awaits me. Check out this picture that sums up my Christmas (a picture of my cousins baby and I) and check out a website adventure I am going to start up (still in the making but it is almost complete) www.mydigitalbusinesscard.com .

tO loNg siNcE mY laSt bloG

2008-12-16T12:22:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been a while since I have blogged but life has been crazy. Our church is involved in an amazing organization this Christmas called Advent Conspiracy. It is bringing awareness to the lack of clean water in the world and instead of being a part of the nation that spends 540 billion dollars a year at Christmas and think differently. Instead of buying your kids an x-box make a coupon book for movie nights, favorite cooked meal, etc. It's awesome and check it out! Also, Sarah and I are so excited that we get to make a trip out to Peoria this Christmas. We do not get to see my parents very often and when we do it is a blast. Very excited and I feel like I need a break right now! Church life gets so crazy around Christmas and after Christmas we have a youth winter retreat. Well, got to get back to work because I have so much to do before I leave. Peace Out and Merry Christmas

wOw

2008-12-01T11:04:00.001-08:00

Have you ever heard this saying at church, "Love the sinner but hate the sin."? I know I have and I think I have even used it before. Did you know that the Hingu Gandhi coined that phrase in is 1929 bibliography and it never cam from Scripture or even a Christian theologian. Interesting!?! Because God really does hate rapist (sinner/ evildoer) as much as he does the rape (sin).

You [God] hate all evildoers (Ps. 55)
Jacob I loved, Esau I hated (Rom 9:13)

Just some thoughts on what I read this morning in Death by Love and I was definitely convicted. So, interesting how we have coined a phrase from a pagan religion because it sounds good. I am realizing more and more how the Word of God is so much sharper than I realized.

tHe roAd ahEad

2008-12-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

I am back from Vacation! WOW, what an amazing Thanksgiving I had with family, praise God. It was definitely a time needed to getaway from everything at work, relax, spend time with Sarah, and just do a ton of nothing. But, with that behind me I now have to bust my butt over the next few weeks to get rolling with everything. The youth group does an amazing community Christmas Party and we are hoping that we have the same success as we did last year (Around 500 people). Plus, it allows us to raise some money to help students towards their SnowScape account (a winter retreat we take in Jan.) www.easternhills.org

SideNote: I bought a guitar hero controller so that I can mod it and get it to actually play music. (I have succeeded so far to get it to play a few notes but soon it will be a masterpiece.) Here is a real nerdy guy who moded his guitar. HA

sKiiNg At tHe hoLidaY

2008-11-24T06:58:00.000-08:00

This past Friday I took 2 students to Holiday Valley to go skiing. It was a blast and we definitely had some funny times. The craziest thing is on our way home we got stuck in a snow storm and ended up staying in a hotel. It was very interesting because when your with a group you always tend to say, "It would be sweet if we got stranded and had to stay at a hotel." But, when it actually happens you want to get home more than anything and be in your bed, your house, and use your tooth brush. We had fun, got to see the most pimpin target shopping carts, and rode in chair 50! (Also, some of you might be thinking these students skipped school. NO THEY DID NOT! They got permission from their parents and I talked with their parents. So, no laws where broken:)

Excited for the snow, thanksgiving vacation, and the awesome ski season ahead. WOO WOO!

hoPinG tHe chUrCh wiLl gEt thE ideA aboUt preAchiNg

2008-11-18T09:24:00.000-08:00

For those of you who do not know me I currently work at a church located outside of Syracuse, NY. Your typical willow creek style seeker friendly church. I used to be a super seeker friendly style of preaching: topics, general, share the Bible but not to much, and don't make anyone uncomfortable....not really a good preacher! But recently (about the past 8 months) I have been realizing how this generation is sick of the candy coated bull crap that many churches have to offer. The problem that I see is that the older generation, 40's+, likes the seeker sensitive model but the new generation, the future elders of the church, cannot stand the watered down, light hearted, consumeristic messages. We are sick of the bull crap, we want to see people who will read/preach the word of God, talk about Jesus, and not be gentle. We live in a culture that is all about LOVE, which is a good thing, but many times we cherry coat Jesus with so much love. We need to remember He was very radical for his day. He flipped over tables, called Pharisee's out, told people to abandon everything for Him, and died on a cross. My hope and prayer is that the church of America figures that out before it starts to die. Some churches are getting this and they are growing abundantly (Mars Hill in Seattle grew 2,000 people during a series on Sex, and it was not a light message at all). People want to here the word of God preached and we need to remember that God will do the rest!

Check out Mark Driscoll's pod cast

tHiS maDe mE lauGh

2008-11-13T12:48:00.001-08:00

loOkiNg fOr sUn iN thE rAin

2008-11-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

Currently in my life I am learning a ton about patience, faithfulness, and seeking after God. Some days it feels like I am outside in the cold, cloudy weather, and I am having rain pour down on me and I just can't seem to find shelter (which is much like the weather in syracuse anyway). But I am realizing in life that you have to have rain clouds at certain times in life to really be able to enjoy the sun. I pray and hope for the sun shine but I know that God is working on me in the rain and sculpting me into a more beautiful piece of his creation.

I love you God and thank you for the faithfulness you have to me. Please help me in the rain storm to have peace, comfort, understanding, and when the sun shine comes I will praise you for it. Also, let your will be done and not my own.

loVe hOw stRaiGht forWarD GOD iS

2008-10-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

I was reading the word this morning and I love how straight forward God is. It bothers me in this generation how we make God seem so fluffy. We seem to forget that God is our father! He disciplines us, helps us, tells us like it is, and saves us. In Proverbs 12:1 is says- "Whoever loves disciplines loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid."
I always wonder why preachers are scared to make statements such as that. Not in a judging way but calling people out, tell people that their action is stupid, they are being stupid, or that what people are doing makes them a DIRTBAG!

Check out the book Death by Love by Mark Driscoll- It will rock your world!

oUr miSSioN's tRiP viDeO

2008-10-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

soMe vaCatiOn picTuReS

2008-10-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

baCk fRom chiCagO

2008-10-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

Sarah and I just got back from a short vacation from Chicago and Peoria! WOW, we had such a blast hanging out with family. We love our families very much and it is always hard to leave them behind. Usually we are ready to come back to New York but this time it would have been nice to stick around for a couple more days(might have to do with I have not seen my family since April). But we are back and back to work reality. Wouldn't it be sweet if there was a job and all you did was go on vacations (Oh yeah, its called working for the travel channel--HA)!
I realized how God has blessed Sarah and I so much with our families. Not that we have the perfect life or perfect parents but we do have a perfect God! Well, time to get back to doing some more work. Hoping to put some pic's up here soon of our trip.

SIDE NOTE: We played bingo with my grandma--IT ROCKED!!!! And I won!!! WOO WOO

a moRniNg oF enCourAgemEnT

2008-09-18T04:28:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to go to a mens bible study. WOW! I was really encouraged to see some men of God waking up early to study the word together. But they where also real men. Not some over Christian guys, they are men who struggle, men who have it rough, men who just run after God through whatever they are going through. Real men of God! Hopefully, I can get up a 5 a.m. every Thursday to make this venture. I will have to say it was hard getting up and not staying their sleeping next to my wife in a warm bed and a cold room. Love You Beautiful!

James 3:13 "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." (Bold added for emphasis)

apoloGy frOm miChaeL (tHe sinGer frOm tHe neW hilLsoNg cD)

2008-09-17T12:17:00.001-07:00

Michael was suposedly diagnosed with cancer 2 years ago. It came out recently that he was lying (I blogged about that about a month ago). Well, I just found a video with him apologizing in it. Check it out if you want.

eNerGy

2008-09-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

I usually enjoy working out but that time typically comes after the hour of 5 p.m. This morning my wife's class was canceled and we hung out for a while and then she looked at me and said, "want to work out". I said. "of course lets do this." We got in the car and headed off to the YMCA. We worked out for 30 min, got in the car to come back, she got ready for school, I got ready for work and I will have to say that I have tons of energy right now. Usually at this point I am tired and ready to take a huge nap. I never thought that moving around for 30 min. this morning could have helped me this much. I might be making this a new routine! Oh NO- I might be turning into a morning person!!! YIKES!

busYneSs

2008-09-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

Well lately I have been crazy busy; life, work, everything! But the greatest thing about it all is that I am enjoying it. My job is fun (get to hang out with students), I love my wife so much and we laugh a ton together, and everything else just seems to be insane. I get up in the morning and am excited! PRAISE GOD! Coming up Sarah and I are getting a chance to go to Chicago and see my family. So excited! We are going to get to spend a few hours downtown just Sarah and I hanging out in the city we fell in love with each other. Then our journey down to Peoria will begin for a fews day- getting to see family, new babies, and just have a blast! WOO WOO Hope everyone else is doing well for everyone!

Also- Read this book-- MADE TO STICK!

paiD hoLiDayS aNd moRe

2008-09-02T12:34:00.001-07:00

I just want to say that I love paid holidays!!! WOO WOO

As I look into the future my friend Jerod is about to be married- holy crap! Which is very exciting because he will also be moving to Pittsburgh, Pa. Which will make him the closest family/friends that Sarah and I will have(still 5 hours away). But as I look at airline tickets at Kayak I just get mad. Why don't they lower airfair or atleast lower it for the small towns of America! So, if you find a super cheap flight from Central, NY to Evansville, IN- please let me know. Besides that Sarah and I might have an opportunity to go to Chicago and Peoria for a fews days--which would be totally awesome! We both love Chicago very much- we feel in love there, got engaged, and so much more. It has also been a long time since we have been able to visit the family. Well, time to go watch some high schoolers kcik some soccer butt!

tHe fuTurE

2008-08-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a book called, 48 Days To The Work You Love. One of the greatest things about it is that talks about the future. So many times in society we look to the past. We always want to remember how we used to be a high school sports star, our favorite team got first, we landed an amazing deal at work, but seldom do we ever look to the future. The past is great and explains many times who we are. BUT how are you looking into your future. Are you living every moment to the fullest, do you want to think about the next step, what do you want to do!

juSt waNteD tO shArE a veRse

2008-08-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

I love different versions of the Bible and reading them. Now there is really only one true one, Greeak Manuscripts, but check out this verse I read today. Loved it and found it so insightful.
"Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God." John 3:20-21
The question is- Are you trying to live in the dark so people do not see your deeds or are you living in the light because you have nothing to hide?

Side Note: The new ESV Study Bible is coming out soon! Very Excited!

a faLlen mAn

2008-08-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening I was sitting at home and I found out about a guy by the name of Michael who was a well known Christian leader who supposedly had terminal cancer, wrote a song about it, one of the number one songs, and then come to find out he has been lying for the past 2 years and really does not have terminal cancer. WHOA--- Make sure you read the article to find out more about the story. But as I was thinking about this it was a huge realization where our faith needs to be. We cannot put faith in humans because they will let you down. The only one we can put faith in is GOD! I hope that Michael recovers from this psychiatric disease he has because God is a God of grace and healing. So pray for him and his family this week.

thE maIn maN maRk

2008-08-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

I love Mark Driscoll because he is a man that preaches the word of God! Check out this sweet new book he is coming out with. The video is a trailer of what the book will talk about. Let me know what you think!

a liTle viDeo

2008-08-11T12:25:00.001-07:00

So, I just got some searching some sits and I found this video of a Christian group rapping. Now I might not play this in my car very loud and listen to it everyday but I thought it was still really cool.

'Send Me' - Live at MHC | Ballard from Mars Hill Church on Vimeo.

alL oF tHe exCitMeNt

2008-08-09T08:17:00.001-07:00

Over the past month of July and the beginning of August my life has been so busy. Today is the first day that I have nothing planned, preparing for something that is planned, or going out of town. PRAISE GOD! After the missions trip I came home and prepared for family coming on that Saturday. Which was not bad just still busy. The family has come and gone- bitter sweet. When you put 7 people in a one bedroom apartment personalities defiantly come to life. We had some tiffs but we also had some crazy laughing moments. It would be so cool to have family closer so that we could go out to dinner, simply watch tv, and/or hang out. We all have seasons of life and this on right now is for Sarah and I to be here in New York and develope our own family.

Note: Did anyone watch the opening ceremonies for the Olympics. Because HOLY CRAP!!! I have never seen a presentation like it in my entire life. It had to deal with a ton of technology but so many people where involved. There was a point that I thought everything was being run by hydraulic lifts but in reality it was all people. Check out some of the footage I found on youtube if you missed it.

chEcK oUt tHis awEsoMe viDeo

2008-08-01T09:11:00.001-07:00

soMetHiNg i reAd tHis moRniNg

2008-08-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

I was reading the book of Romans and studying the verses this morning and something caught my attention.

Romans 1:17-18 "For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.' "

As I read that I often forget the righteous part of faith. I hear many people say, "Oh, I have faith in Christ (mainly to use as the get of hell free card)" But we are to be righteous in our faith.

We are to obey God with our whole heart. In a book I was reading this morning it talked about how Christianity is a two sided coin. Many times a person with believe and then later obey. But we need to believe and obey at the same time (I think Paul teaches this clearly in Romans). I believe that true Christianity is a two sided coin.

How is your faith today? For myself, I went on a missions trip. We went to lead a worship conference but in reality we had no idea if anyone would even show up. Truthfully not many people showed up to the concerts (we where told around 300 each night but had around 50-75 people). But I think God was saying are you still going to worship Me. Is your faith in Me or in results. I learned that no mater how many people get saved, show up to concerts, that my faith is in God alone. I need to worship Him no matter what. It was definitely a learning experience but I realized I need to worship God with all I have and He takes care of the rest.

Jonathan LaBerdia

tiMe oF moTion

2008-06-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

Lately my schedule has been crazy. It seems as if at certain times I am moving in motion but not even realizing it. Today sarah asked me to sit down for a few minutes to take a breather and hang out with her as she was eating some pizzia. I wanted to with all of my heart, and I did, but for some reason it was hard to sit. I felt as if I could run a million miles at that moment. Remeber to take a breath in all of our motion in life and just sit and enjoy someone you LOVE!

a tiMe oF pRaYer

2008-06-19T15:44:00.001-07:00

I look at a time of wonder and realize the only thing to do is prayer. Many times we can get mad at God, which is actually pretty easy. (I will not pretend I have never been mad at God.) But I really do believe that the best thing to do is talk to God about what you/I are or will be going through in life. This thought might not made sense but to me it does. Pray to God for wisdom and still wonder about whatever but seek His council.

aN aMaziNg oPporTuniTy

2008-06-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

This summer the worship team has been asked by Karazim Ministries to go to the Bahamas and lead worship during a conference they are having. I am so excited to get to do this. Events like this allow me to know that God is using my full gifts that he has given me. It makes me excited and very passionate to do things like this. I love production, big events, and crazy situations. Because in the end God just pulls it all together for something amazing and beautiful. Please pray for us as we are going to embark on this amazing journey. Prayer Request: Safe Travel, Spiritual Unity, Spiritual Warfare, Financial Support, our Equipment makes it safe and in working order, that someone will step up to drive our equipment down to Florida, the hearts of the people of the Bahamas, and that each member of the team will be seeking God everyday!

poP aNd loCk

2008-05-27T08:01:00.001-07:00

fiShiNg

2008-05-27T07:47:00.000-07:00

There are a few things in my life that I have always loved but do not always do. Two of them are Fishing and Mountain Biking. Recently I have been going fishing quit a bit. Around once a week, which is a ton for me because before I was not going at all. Mainly because I found out that I had a stream behind my apartment that was full of trout. So, around 7:00 pm at night I head down and start fishing. IT IS A BLAST!! I wish I had a boat to go fishing more but I don't. So, if anyone out there has a boat they would like to donate to the Poor Fisherman's Fund feel free:) Hope everyone had a Great Memorial day and go fishin'!

a tImE oF sUn iS neeDeD

2008-05-23T13:59:00.000-07:00

Well, I am getting sick of rain, cold, and these little bits of sunshine. I remember looking back a few weeks ago the sun was shining for a few weeks and it was a perfect temp. of upper 70's! I know the heat and the sun will come soon but I am getting a bit impatient. Also, speaking of sun, soon Sarah and I are going to go visit family. I am very excited for that and it is going to be a warm time just hanging out. Family does not live close. So when we get an opportunity to go spend it with them it seems like we won the lottery. Ummmm...I gotta go eat now with my baby. PEACE!

aN eiGhT yEaR oLd tHaT roCkS hArd

2008-05-13T06:37:00.001-07:00

tHe insanItY oF trAveL wiLl beGiN shOrtLy

2008-05-12T10:51:00.000-07:00

On thursday I am getting to go to Ohio to see one of my greatest friends get married. I am so excited! This will be the first time I have seen my guy friends from college since my wedding. The weekend is going to be insane, full of laughing, and us being crazy. I am very excited! Also, Sarah is going to get to go home for a few days while I do pre-wedding stuff (rehearsal dinner, hang out with friends, etc.). Which is awesome since she has not been home since Christmas. Then after the wedding we get to go back a couple weekends later to go visit her Dad for his birthday. This month is going to be an awesome month visiting family and friends!!! Praise God for them. If you think about praying for safe travel, that Justin's wedding/ marriage will be blessed by God, and we can have so much fun with the family and friend's God has blessed us with. Praise God!

mY weEk

2008-05-02T08:08:00.001-07:00

This week has been an interesting week for myself. We had a high school girls life taken by a Fire this past weekend, a family member was lied to about a job offer (which he found out while they were sitting with him singing the papers, he did not sign), a good friend of my lost his car in an accident, and a girl I new at Moody was killed by riding her bike home from school. I have been really just thinking about how much of a gift life is and how short it is. God has us all here for a certain amount of time and for a purpose. I take advantage of how fragile life is. I have been reflecting and really just talking with God about his sovereignty. I mean that girl was going to visit her family (who just moved back from Romania) and her boyfriend was going to propose to her. It is a crazy world out there. God I praise you for being sovereign but please help the grieving families during this time and your name be glorified in everything. Remember- only God knows when our time is up here on earth!

cRazY fuNnY viDeO

2008-05-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

thE woRd

2008-04-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

I am really in love with how straight forward God is in the Bible. God says some amazing things in the text, " Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword" WHOA! When I read that God just rocked my face off. Somewhere deep inside of me I always thought that God wanted to bring peace to everyone. But really God wants us to surrender our life to Him. Not peace, just fully committing our life to God. Can this be done? I really think that we can fully surrender our life to Him. It takes trust, it is a lifestyle change from the world, and it takes faith! Yeah, we might hit some bumps a bruises on the way but we really can surrender ourself to him. I have realized over the years that I am ultimately happy when I fully surrender myself to God. God has never guaranteed that I would have it easy, have tons of money, or be safe when I do this. But He has guaranteed me that He is faithful to me and will always be there when I am running after Him.

This is a reflection of Matthew 10: 32-42

**Check out "My Soul Sings" by Delirious

tHe weAtHeR anD oVeR a yeAr

2008-04-18T13:36:00.000-07:00

So, the wether here in Fayetteville, NY is freaking amazing. Who would have thought that it would be in the high 70's for the past few days. Praise God! Everyone is so much happier in the sun, including me. So, thank you LORD for the amazing weather the past few days. Try to go outside an enjoy the gift he has given us! ---Also, Sarah and I had our 1 year anniversary this past Monday. We are so thankful that God has blessed us to be together for the rest of our lives and also how he has blessed us in the past year! So, we are no longer newly weds and we have many more wonderful years together--WOO WOO

nOt suRe wHaT tO saY

2008-04-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Well I sit here and write but not really knowing what to say........well I just thought of something. What is FAITH to you? Is it really believing in God? or something that you have been fed all your life and have never experience for yourself? I challenge you (the reader) to find your faith, make it your own. Run after God and experience Him over the next month, and hopefully you will want to run after Him for eternity. Make your faith your own. God is always there standing, waiting, just trust in Him, HAVE FAITH IN HIM!!!! God bless!

hoMe aLoNe

2008-04-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

Well, my mom and sarah just went to go get me some birthday stuff and I am not allowed to go. So, I am home alone rockin it! This year I am going to try and give baseball a try. I am watching some cubbies right now, which have always been my favorite baseball team. My grandma is a number one cubs fan and I feel like her wish is to see them win a world series before she passes. (By the way, she is not dying or anything I just know that she would be so happy.) Well I hope everyone enjoys the gorgeous weather. PEACE

hOw aRe yOu liViNg fOr JeSus

2008-03-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

How are you living for Jesus in this forsaken world? Are you being luke-warm or on fire? We all need to stop talking about the revolution we want to happen and start actually doing them? Christianity is a active faith! Have a blessed day and LIVE FOR GOD!

baCk fRom ilLinOis

2008-03-23T06:36:00.000-07:00

I am back from the wonderful state of Illinois. Sarah and I were able to go and suprise my mom on Monday. My dad picked us up from the airport, drove us home, we just walked in and said "HI". At that point my mom gasped and then began to cry. It was an amazing surprise, I love surprises, and was pulled off very well. We continued the week with hanging out, eating, some shopping, then eating some more, and were able to spend time with extended family (and I got to see my best friend Joel). I praise God for family and how he has blessed me with such an amazing one. I really do believe that it is Biblical to not be away from your family for an extended period. {Now, that does not mean that Sarah and I plan on moving back anytime soon in the near future. But I do feel that someday we will be moving closer to home.} How have you prayed for your family lately? Also, praise God for Easter because this was the final sacrifice for our sins! Have an AMAZING DAY!

tHiS brOuGht baCk sOmE meMoRies

2008-03-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

I was wondering what happened to "Kris Kross" today and I thought they became music producers. But after reading some wikipedia I realized that they have kinda disappeared off the charts. Not matter what they are doing now I will always have childhood memories of dancing to this song! What the music video and rock out!

loVe aNd reSpEcT

2008-03-13T16:43:00.000-07:00

Sarah and I just started an amazing marriage class at church. I am so excited to see how it grows our marriage, strengthens us, and makes us a better team. We of course have some amazing teachers, 2 of which we are specially fond of, the Cox's. It all comes down how men want respect then love and woman want love then respect. Both couples need both parts of the equation but each sex is different. I am excited for the road that it is going to take us on.

tHe riDe oF tHe oHiO stOrM

2008-03-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Well I went to Ohio this past weekend in a snow storm that rocked face. We drove an average speed of 35 m/hr and a total distance 466 miles. Which took us around 12 hours to drive. This trip would also include only 2 stops, eating in the car, and one time being pulled out of the ditch. Let's just say it was a eventful trip but well worth it to visit family. In my opinion family is one of the most important things that God ever created! Praise God for family.

selFiSgneSs

2008-03-06T16:58:00.000-08:00

I always wonder if selfishness of the human life came after the fall or maybe it is the sin of selfishness came after the fall. I was talking with some people at friendly's the other night and we all talked about how we are terrible listeners. After talking about it, throughout the whole night we all interrupted, changed topic, or genuinely did not care about what was being said. All which was not by accident. Simon (from America idol) always talks about how deep down inside everyone only cares about themselves. I think he is correct. We are depraved sinners who only care about us. I believe that the human race suffocates themselves because of selfishness. It destroys friendships, marriages, families, etc. I know that I am a selfish person and I know I need to work on it. The first step is listening and caring. We can all listen but when you do not do both the equation dies. Who will you listen and care for this week/month/life? I know who I am picking!

tWo tHinGs

2008-03-02T11:54:00.001-08:00

1. Well today I found out that people actually read my blog. That made me excited because I never thought people actually read my blog.
2. I have always been interested in flipping houses and how the real estate market works. So, I have started to watch the show "Flip that house" and "Flip this house". The idea is very intriguing to me and the whole process. I will not be flipping a house anytime soon but maybe in the future. In the mean time I will just research about the process, how is works, and what it takes. Check out the shows sometime (TLC & A&E) and below I have a clip on youtube from Flip This House (A&E).

iN mY opIniOn- oNe oF tHe bEsT woRsHiP sOnGs eVer wRitTen

2008-02-29T10:47:00.000-08:00

oUr GoD reiGnS

2008-02-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

What I love about God is how He is everywhere. The same God that is in the Bahamas is also in New York. Stop and think about that for a minute. <-----------minute------------> No matter how lonely you feel, how helpless you are, or happy you are God is always with us. From the Bahamas, to Manlius, to Sydney, and everywhere in between. How will you allow God to use you in the world?

tHe baHaMaS

2008-02-26T14:07:00.000-08:00

Well as some of you might know on Feb 16-23 I was in the Bahamas partnering with Karazim ministries. The week was incrediable and God showed up. He showed Himself to me many times but one in particular sticks out in my mind currently. We did food disctirbution one day while we were there and Sarah and I were told to go out into the little communities and inform people that we had rice, hotdogs, etc. As we were walking a bunch of kids showed up, one girl came over, grabbed my hand and gave me the biggest hug. She didn't know who I was or why I was there but she new that I would love her. That is what God is all about. Showing His love to others! So, many of the children are love deprived because their parents do not know how to love and I hope and pray that it will not be passed down to these children. God did some amazing things on the trip! Pray for the amazing people of the Bahamas!

a chaLLenGe tO thOsE wHo aRe aRe reAdY

2008-02-14T07:39:00.000-08:00

Why do teenagers sit at home and think they cannot do anything? Teenagers are the most influential people group ever to have walked the earth! Parents adjust their daily schedule around you, the media does everything in their power to make it attractive to you, society worships the teenager, because they are the influential people group. Why do "you" not start a revolution, why do think you are nothing, why do you feel you have no power, and why do you not change this community to be on fire for God. God will use you in many ways! God has always used young people to change the world. Why are you not allowing God to use you to change your school and change your world. Start the revolution NOW!

tHe jouRnEy iS aBoUt to beGin

2008-02-10T18:43:00.000-08:00

Well in a week from right now I will be in the wonderfully sunny bahamas doing God's work. I am very excited to see how God is going to use the team. We just want to be rock stars for Jesus and do whatever He wants us to do. So, please pray for us as you think about us during Fe. 16-23! Well gtg and get back to working on Basic Church Marketing ! It still needs a lot of work, have not advertised it, but it is a work in progress.

i heaRd soMethiNg toDay

2008-01-28T18:25:00.000-08:00

So I heard today, in your first few years of ministry it is very hard to see what is right for the "group". As in- what type of events work, style of youth group, small groups and so on. On avg. it ussually take 2-3 years to get that established. I know I am not to that point yet but I am excited about thinking of the future and what two:twenty youth ministries has in store for next year (yes i am already thinking about next year 2008-2009). I am also excited to see what God has in store and what he lays on my heart. God always knows why stuff happens and what will happen. (so pray for two:twenty ministries as I seek after God for next year)

anoTheR viDeO

2008-01-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

tHe piCtuRe diD nOt loAd

2008-01-25T18:37:00.000-08:00

sorry pic is not loading for some reason:(

mY hAiR

2008-01-25T18:33:00.000-08:00

So I got my hair cut this week. Well it is definitely to short but o well because it will grow back during time. So here is a picture of how short it is- and yes I know it could be worse.

2008-01-21T18:07:00.000-08:00

iT's bEeN a wHiLe

2008-01-20T17:22:00.000-08:00

So it has been a while since my last post! But life is great and has been supper crazy- getting back from the holiday, planning snowscape, snowscape, playing catch up, and now I am back! Which I know life will not be totally normal! Sarah and I are looking in to getting a new apartment- which means we would move in Feburary- but we are also going on a missions trip in the 2nd to last week of Feburary. So, not sure how it will happen- only GOD does! Life could get super crazy.

God is doing some amazing things in the youth group. HE SHOWED UP over snowscape and really challenged the students. I am hoping this will start the revolution I have been praying for. God is good- all the time, All the time- God is good.

mY fiRst ipOd toUcH eNtrY

2007-12-28T09:06:00.000-08:00

Just saying hello from the touch... It is way to cool!

tHe trAveL wiLl beGin sHoRtLy

2007-12-20T08:34:00.000-08:00

Well, soon I will begin my journey across the USA for my Christmas Vacation!!! It's weird to think that last year I was single, no job, and just graduated college. Now I am married, new job, new state, and a new life. It is great but crazy to think how it all happened in 1 year. Sarah and I will be excited to be visiting family and see them all. So pray for us and our travel's!!! Be ready for 2008 and the wonderful things God has in store!

tHe snOw

2007-12-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

The snow is out of control! I love it. Praise God for the wonderful white dust that He put across this earth. But since I live in a place that gets pills of white dust, snow tires are now needed. So my journey will begin on a search for snow tires. Thats all, and I am excited for Christmas.

tHey eMbEd tOo

2007-12-10T11:27:00.000-08:00

Here is an example of an embeded video from hulu.

i gOt tO huLu

2007-12-10T11:18:00.000-08:00

So, today I received my huluname and password. This allows you to watch videos on hulu and comment on the beta they have provided to a limited community of viewers. If you have not signed up yet-- give it a try!!!(Click here to do so) I really enjoy it because it has full length episodes, small advertisement, and everything is in high quality--- so if I was youtube--I would definitely do some upgrading.

doN't siT arOuNd, dO soMetHinG

2007-11-29T07:54:00.000-08:00

Are we going to be the revolutionaries or pass it up and let someone else do it! It's your choice!!! I know what I am doing!

tHanKsgIviGg/ blaCk frIdAy

2007-11-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

Well, I am back home from visiting family in Ohio! Thanksgiving was a great time to spend with family. I am very thankful too have such an awesome family that loves Sarah and I so much. As you look back on Thanksgiving what are you thankful for? Are you thankful for black friday and the most insane mom's shopping for their children, thankful that Christmas is coming up, or having an awesome family. So look back and see what you are thankful for! ---SIDE NOTE: I went out on black friday, way to many people out at 4:30 a.m., and had an anxiety attack because target was so packed. Next year I will be more prepared!

2007-11-17T13:10:00.000-08:00

www.basicchurchmarketing.com

So it's up!!! And check it out!

mY nEw adVentUre

2007-11-15T19:37:00.000-08:00

So I am starting on a new adventure of trying out my own business (this is a part-time thing and I am still a full time youth pastor). The idea comes from that small churches are stuggling to stay up with the culture on the internet. It costs a lot to get good web-pages, design, and other print media made. And ussually a church with 2 pastors cannot hire a media arts director or pay a company $5,000-30,000 for a good web site. This is where I come in!!! Basic Church Marketing is for the little guy, the one who struggles, the guy that most people leave out and see as not very effective. The little guy just needs some help You should check out the site www.basicchurchmarketing.com (I am having some server trouble at the moment but it should be up in a few days) Tell me what you think! I have not started advertising yet, so if you find a need to have edits let me know//esp. in the grammer department!!!

sO tHe v-neCk

2007-11-13T10:02:00.000-08:00

I noticed that no one commented on the v-neck video I put on the blog. You really should watch it and post a comment. It's very interesting. I am very excited in the fact that I get to go to Sarah's family next week over thanksgiving!!! It is going to be a wonderful time of eating, hanging out, and getting away for a while. I do love it here but vacations are very nice. I hope that everyone can enjoy thanksgiving and spending time with their family. My heart breaks for those who do not have a family or any place to call home over the holidays.

i waTchEd a deBatE

2007-11-08T08:16:00.000-08:00

I watched a debate betwen an Antheist and a Christian. Here is a You Tube clip of some of it but go to this site to watch the whole thing. http://www.dineshdsouza.com/

ciTy chUrCh

2007-11-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

So I saw this on a friends page. What do you think?
(Also, the guy is wearing a deep plunge V-Neck!!)

praY[eR]

2007-11-06T10:57:00.000-08:00

If you believe in God you pray. Some of us pray everyday, others when life is painful, or others only before they eat. One of the greatest things that I see coming from prayer is reality. When we confess who we are to God we are brought in to this reality that God is perfect and us humans are not. Humans are dirty tainted people. It's weird because so many times we try to hide are true feelings in prayer and seem to think we can hide how imperfect we are from God. God knows us and who we are (Ps. 139) Confess to God and be brought in to that reality of how imperfect we are and how perfect God is.

eVangeliSm

2007-11-05T18:22:00.001-08:00

We are all evangelist's for something. Basically we share something that we strongly believe in and want others to believe in as well. I believe in the one and true God and I want others to believe in Him as well. I also am a evagleist for many other things. One is www.churchmarketingsucks.com This site shares how we can be better at marketing in our local church. It is filled with ideas, aids, and almost everything you can imagine. So check it out! www.churchmarketingsucks.com

moRe yoUtube

2007-11-02T08:34:00.000-07:00

So a new program like youtube will be coming out. It's called HULU! Not sure how many features it will have but it seems to be awesome. I watched a clip of the office and it was in full quality, instead of all the break ups. So check it out!

waTcH thiS

2007-10-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

Who said Church's cannot make music videos?

eXCelLeNce

2007-10-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

How are we striving for excellence? Do we want to always be behind others and not trying our hardest? Or, Do we want to be known as the person who does their best, shows results, and has excellence in everything they do? It's our choice to be who we want to be but when we strive for excellence people can tell a difference. Whether we are in school, church, life, work, or at home. People will soon find out what we are about. If MTV strives for excellence, why don't we?

it's Time

2007-10-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been looking at many innovating churches. One thing they have in common is Blogging!!! So instead of refusing to get on the boat I jumped on! Granger Community Church produced a conference called Innovate. It happened a few months ago but I have recently just had time to watch them. If you are in need of ideas on how to reach out to our media driven world. WATCH THIS- http://www.wiredchurches.com/site/Innovate07_summary.html