Friday's Weekly Rap Up - September 16, 2016 - Lecrae, "I'm a Saint"

I'm a Saint - Lecrae (Lyrics)

For four weeks our church and neighborhood parishes are reading and reviewing the Sojourn Houston neighborhood parish primer. This is a time to be reminded of our identity as Christians, and as members of the Church. The parish primer is a tool that assists parishes, or more simply, smaller expressions of the local church, in developing a unified vision for how life and ministry within the parish will look.

The first week's topic discusses a Christian's position as a saint. Typically we hear "saint", and either think of someone that is perceived as having a pristine image and character. We think of a really good person. Or, we think of "saint" sarcastically, as in "Oh, they're a saint."

The New Testament of the bible regularly calls those in Christ, saints. It's not a reference for only the holiest of holy. The term "saint" describes a position for those who are Christians, not a result of striving to be holy, or attaining the name from an institution.

When we understand this truth, we're free to grow in holiness as a parish, as a church. This truth also allows us to serve and do good works in the name of Christ, without having to worry about doing those works to earn our position as saints.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - July 29, 2016 - "Lazarus" - Trip Lee feat. This'l

"Lazarus" - Trip Lee feat. This'l - Lyrics

Friday's Weekly Rap Up is something that I like to feature at the end of weeks, featuring some sort of rap song, along with how it coincides with the Christian life. This week we have the song "Lazarus" from Trip Lee, featuring This'l.



Last weekend we took part in an evangelism training course at Sojourn Heights, our local church, led by Jeremiah Morris. The training was a speed-through of the gospel of John, and highlighted chapter 11, which features the account of Lazarus.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - October 23, 2015 - "Anger Management" - Lecrae, feat. Thi'sl

Anger Management - Lecrae, feat. Thi'sl

I had never thought myself an angry person. That's certainly not how I would want to describe myself. (Un)fortunately, as you continue to live in close relationship with others, that's the sort of thing that gets revealed to you. I've realized, I have a tendency to get pretty frustrated with others. This has been most recently revealed to me in marriage, but I can look back now and realize that it started well before that. I can have flashbacks to childhood and recall my frustration. My anger and frustration is born of things that I wanted to control, normally simple things that shouldn't cause someone to get angry. But, my insatiable desire to have things under control continued to drive frustration and anger.

This anger and general frustration is rooted in a desire for other people to conform to my ideals, which, is a losing game. There's no grace in that. So, instead of being reminded how I can serve others, I think about how something is a frustration to me. It's a direct reflection of my disobedience to rest in the work of Christ. Our identities are not held within what we accomplish or how comfortable we are.

This past weekend at Sojourn, our pastor Brandon exhorted us from the book of 1 Peter, chapter 1 verses 13 to 21. He opened by summarizing an article from professor Stan van Hooft, an Australian philosopher, The Necessity of Hope. van Hooft's observation is that the world is in chaos without hope, but he states that we need to hold out hope in something. It's all too common for us to hope in something that ultimately does not fulfill us. We want things so badly, and are left empty by them in the end.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - August 21, 2015 - "We Are The Champions" - Derek Minor; Andy Mineo on Sway In The Morning

Over the last few weeks we at Sojourn Heights have been hearing about what it means for the people to God to live as a Redeemed Family. We've heard primarily from the book of Ephesians, covering various topics, including singleness and dating, marriage, and (this upcoming Sunday) parenting. The exhortations in Ephesians, and especially Ephesians 4 and 5, call us to holiness, especially in relation to unity in the body of Christ, our new life in Christ, and in walking in love with others. We're called to live sacrificially, live in the light of the gospel, and, what stuck out most to me these past few weeks; to look carefully at how we walk, making the most of our time we have. We shouldn't waste our lives.

As we examine our Christian faith in light of our culture, it would be very easy to be swayed into trying to achieve satisfaction in the things of this world. In a world that is saturated with darkness, it's a great encouragement to many to see the testimony and witness of others. This week, Andy Mineo was once again featured on Sway in the Morning, Sway Calloway's daily radio show on SiriusXM's Shade 45 station. (See the full interview at the bottom of this post.) As a Christian, Andy has pursued his craft, and is making the best use of his time. Listening to other Christians who rap, there are presented with numerous opportunities to display the glory of Christ, and to shape culture. It's no different for us in whatever profession or situation we are in.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - August 7, 2015 - "For Those Who Can't Speak" - Tenth Avenue North, ft. Derek Minor, KB

This week's "Friday's Weekly Rap Up" selection, "For Those Who Can't Speak", is a song by the band Tenth Avenue North, featuring Derek Minor and KB. The music video for this song was released earlier this year on January 15th during National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.



As you listen to this song, it describes the millions of people (a number of 27 million is listed in the song), predominantly women and girls, caught in some form of slavery; most likely sex trafficking. As Derek Minor notes in his first verse, this is definitely not the picture that God paints in the beginning of Genesis when describing creation's experience of the world. This song urges those of us who have a voice, and are not silenced, to speak about the injustice and ills found in our world; to let the rivers and waters of justice roll. There's a biblical calling to do so, both in the old testament and new. Some come to see that what they've been doing is unjust.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - July 31, 2015 - "Sweet Victory" - Trip Lee

This past Tuesday, Trip Lee and Reach Records released a music video for "Sweet Victory" from Trip Lee's "Rise" album.  Keep in mind the imagery used throughout the video. The video opens on an old, beat up Cadillac Eldorado. To the eye, there is nothing redeeming about its appearance. This Eldo isn't on 24's. It doesn't have the white-wall tires old Eldorados used to have. The windows are busted. The oil is leaking. The tires are a little flat. The hood ornament is stuck on with some duct tape.

But you know what? Turn that key it still runs. That exhaust pipe might be dragging a bit, but it's still rolling. But then we get a few things thrown at us. Now the car's struggling a bit. It's tougher to press on. It takes a bit more gas to move. Things slow to a limp; a crawl. But it doesn't stop moving.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - July 10, 2015 - "I'm Gone" - Trip Lee

Trip Lee - "I'm Gone" (Lyrics)



Our church has been in a series of teaching the past few weeks from the book of 1 Timothy, labelled "The Household of God." In this book Paul is instructing Timothy, one of the young church planters of the day. Paul starts his letter by first warning against much of the false teaching that had been persistent in the city of Ephesus, then in later chapters instructs Timothy and encourages him in being bold even though he was young, what the organization of his church should be, how church leaders are to function, and standing firm in doctrine.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - April 17, 2015 - "Beautiful Life 2 (Mine)" - Trip Lee

Yesterday evening I had the pleasure of attending the annual benefit dinner for the Houston Pregnancy Help Center, hosted at the Hilton Americas in Downtown Houston. A number of Sojourn Heights parishioners came to the event by invitation of one of the pregnancy center's volunteers. It was a night of the testimony of how God is working in Houston, saving lives and ministering to women and men in unplanned pregnancy situations. Many of us had not heard of their work in Houston, but we are glad that we now do.

It was a joy and encouragement to hear the center's director, Sylvia L. Johnson, speak about her passion in ministering to mothers, no matter their choices and backgrounds. It is evident that Ms. Johnson's passion for loving people comes from her passion and love for Christ. It was refreshing to know that the Houston Pregnancy Help Center offers a life-affirming alternative to the culture of death that has grips our communities. The culture of death is one that does plague our neighborhoods and thoughts, without regard to class or creed, and one that is perpetuated throughout much of society today. Ms. Johnson offered testimonies of women who visited the clinic, still intent on having an abortion, and through the love of the clinic, and its staff and volunteers, brought life to their children instead. Please read some of the clinic's other testimonies, as they are powerful, and offer a reminder of the hurt and confusion that plague many of our neighbors.

Great night w/ fellow @SojournHeights folks, hearing @ericmetaxas & supporting the Houston Pregnancy Help Center pic.twitter.com/c7bUQtRfEK
— Christopher Andrews (@chrisandrewsCDA) April 17, 2015

Last night's event was headlined by author and television host Eric Metaxas. You can see his story here at I Am Second. Mr. Metaxas is a regular guess on many national media outlets, including Fox News and CNN, and has had many of his works published in publications such as the Wall Street Journal. His op-ed, "Science Increasingly Makes the Case for God," featured in the WSJ, is a fantastic, thoughtful piece. He highlighted many of the points made in his "Miracles" book, and reminded us that many of us maintain a hunger to know what is real and what is true.

Mr. Metaxas also reminded us of the sacred state of God's creation, that His creation is set apart and infinitely valuable. This is a worldview that is not shared by all, but one that the Houston Pregnancy Help Center is striving to share with mothers and fathers in Houston. It also reminded me of the work of rapper Trip Lee, shared in his song "Beautiful Life". I highlighted this song a while back, but it's important to remember the truth that is contained in it.

"Beautiful Life" is an account of a young woman struggling with the question of abortion, and the inconvenient timing of a child due to an unplanned pregnancy. Trip follows with a verse dedicated to the male in the relationship, who was most likely "caught off guard" by a pregnancy. Finally, as poetically as possible, Trip links the struggles of abortion, especially the guilt of those with that have already had an abortion performed, to the gospel and forgiveness found in Christ. That third verse is about as good as anyone could explain the freedom that exists in Christ, even for sinners like us.

On Trip Lee's most recent album, Rise, he features "Beautiful Life 2 (Mine)", highlighting the joy that is found in fatherhood and the creation of his son and daughter. That is the joy that the Houston Pregnancy Help Center is fighting to share with mothers and fathers facing unplanned pregnancy here in Houston. See how you can help them here.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up February 6, 2015 - "New Dreams"- Trip Lee

"New Dreams" - Trip Lee (Featuring J.R. and Sho Baraka) (Lyrics)

We all want to live life to the fullest. We want to The "good life" is one that we envision, whether that be financial security, professional decisions and status, or simply just acceptance. You might say "if only I had _______. That's your idea of the good life. It's that thing you just "have to have" to make everything right.

Geography on Set; Andy Mineo's "You Can't Stop Me", Washington Heights

I have a fairly decent geographic memory. When many of my older cousins began to drive, I was the young one helping them navigate the east side of metropolitan Detroit. I like connecting real places to my experiences, and connecting real places to scenes we see in the media. This strong sense of place is described as topophilia (a love or affinity for place). (This was one of the first terms I remember learning in planning school from Dr. Rex Lamore at Michigan State University, and it's stuck with me ever sense.)

I plan to make this a bit more of a "series" in connecting the settings of television shows, movies, music videos or other media, to real places. I did this last week for the setting of April and Andy's possible new house on Parks and Recreation, so, I guess this is the second installment of what I will call "Geography on Set". I plan not only to show the actual location of these settings in media, but a bit more about each neighborhood, including demographics and development patterns.

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - January 9, 2015 - "Need It Daily" by Tedashii

"Need It Daily" - Tedashii, featuring Derek Minor - Lyrics

It's a new year, so resolutions abound. The gyms are filling up with people resolving to lose some of those holiday pounds, or to simply get in shape. Others are resolving to serve their communities or friends. Many of us in our church's neighborhood parish (more commonly referred to as a small group) have resolved to chronologically read the entire bible in a calendar year.

As Christians, we should be rooted in God's word. We are instructed to read God's word. It helps us encourage one another daily and reminds us of truths.

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - November 7, 2014 - "Kobe Bryant On 'Em" - Sho Baraka

"Kobe Bryant On 'Em" - Sho Baraka - Lyrics

Kobe Bryant

Every Friday morning I get together with a group of guys to play basketball at 6:00 AM. It's an early start, but I look forward to Friday morning every week. It's a competitive outlet, a way to get some exercise, and a chance to still show that we've still got some game. Some of the guys who play are from our church, so that helps build community between us. Others are coworkers or neighbors, or random guys we invite to play who become friends. We've got different levels of skill too. Some of the guys have played at a college-level. Some played in high school, and some have never played organized basketball. It doesn't matter though.

Sometimes our frustration shows when we miss shots (and we miss many) or our teammates don't meet our expectations. We get mad when we miss layups or allow people to score on us. Some of us get angry at times. I'll admit, I can get upset when teammates don't play defense or switch which man we're defending, or don't call out screens; things I'd have expected to hear from college players I played with or coached over the years.

Sho Baraka's song "Kobe Bryant on 'Em" is actually a mixtape response to another song, "Air Jordan on 'Em" from rapper K-Drama. At first blush it may seem that these songs are simply about two of the best basketball players to have ever played the game. That'd be partially true. K-Drama thinks Michael Jordan is the best. Sho Baraka, thinking Kobe is the best, playfully responds with "Kobe Bryant on 'Em", noting that he's "a Cali man through and through." But, there's more here than two rappers creatively communicating their favorite basketball players. You may think, "what does it mean to 'Air Jordan on 'em?', or 'what does it mean to Kobe Bryant on 'em?'" Well, it has less to do with basketball, and more to do with biblical history and a Christian's steadfast witness of the Gospel in light of opposition and trial.

This K-Drama response is most helpful. K-Drama derives the term mostly from the scriptural account found in the book of Numbers, when God commanded Moses and the Israelites to possess the land of Canaan. After a survey, many of the men did not want to enter into the land, as they found the inhabitants to be much stronger than themselves. Joshua and Caleb did not see it that way and were undeterred, comforted by the strength of the Lord. Sho Baraka expands on this idea with lines like:

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - September 26, 2014 - "ITWNOI" - Sho Baraka

"ITWNOI" (In This World, Not Of It) - Sho Baraka (lyrics)



This past week I started to think about the name of my blog and how its name was formulated. I intended to keep my blog only to update friends and family of my experiences, as well as what I was learning in my faith. I originally started the blog back in 2009 while preparing for a mission trip to Colombia with an Athletes in Action basketball team. It was a while ago, and I've never felt like changing it, even as I began to write more of my thoughts. It's probably a good thing in the end. It's a good reminder of my standing in this world.

As time has gone on, I've included thoughts about athletics, rap music, the Christian faith, and mostly urban planning in Houston. Within the last couple of months I have had many blog posts linked to a variety of planning and development websites, and circulated on social media. It's been a great reminder about the call that Christians have as being on this earth.

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - May 23, 2014 - "Darkest Hour" - No Malice, Lecrae - CNN, Bill Weir, Interview with No Malice

"Darkest Hour" - Lecrae, No Malice

Earlier this week I came across a post on Rapzilla chronicling a CNN Tonight interview from host Bill Weir that took a behind the scenes look at two rappers, Pusha-T and No Malice, brothers who once performed as The Clipse. As Rapzilla points out regarding the rap culture, "Few media outlets have embraced the challenge of looking deeper into the complex struggle of right and wrong that has always been the invisible narrative of the culture." Rappers are usually glorified for their lyrics and actions, especially when it comes to pushing and using drugs, drinking, violence, sex and making money, without any question of motives, or the impact they have on culture.

Wier asked both brothers about their lives. Pusha-T showed off his fashion boutiques, clothes and business ideas, while No Malice showed Weir the Virginia Beach home where he and his brother began selling crack cocaine and started rapping. No Malice was a bit uncomfortable talking about his past, as one might be when admitting to selling crack on national television.

No Malice said “When I think about my infidelities…the heartbreak that I caused my wife, that I caused myself. When I think about her forgiveness, how the Word of God repaired us and nothing else. When I think about that; to me, it’s a no brainer. I can’t return to that lifestyle and that kind of way. I don’t have a choice.” When asked about returning to rap for a Clipse reunion, No Malice is adamant that he is not interested. It seems that he is satisfied in his life in Christ, rather than performing for crowds and raking in cash and notoriety. His decision just doesn't make sense to a watching world that does not see Christ as their ultimate treasure. It surely doesn't make sense to those reading XXL. It doesn't make sense to those watching MTV. And it surely won't make much sense at BET's 106 & Park. Jesus tells us that those who know him will be hated and mocked.

In the book of Colossians, Paul reminds the church at Colossae, as well as Christians, that before we are in Christ we were all alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds. But now, Christ has reconciled sin for us through his death, making us holy and blameless before our father. In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul reminds us that we are new creations in Christ.

When we hear interviews like this with No Malice and see fruitfulness of the Spirit, it is an encouragement to all who are struggling with some form of sin, not just pushing drugs or promoting cash, women, cars and clothes. We can be sure that Jesus is better. We can be sure that Jesus uses different art forms and methods to bring glory to himself, and to encourage others in faith.

Following Jesus certainly won't make much sense to those who find comfort in fame and material possessions. Through his testimony, we can be sure that pushing rocks is of no satisfaction compared to standing firm on the rock of our salvation.

"Darkest Hour" - Lyrics

Bonus: "Lord Have Mercy" - Lecrae, Tedashii and No Malice

Friday's Weekly Rap Up - September 20, 2013 - "Homecoming" by Derek Minor

"Homecoming" - Derek Minor

Minorville, by Derek Minor, was released last week. There are some great songs on this record, with my initial favorite being "We Are Champions". I've still got more intent listening to do, but the overall theme of the album intrigues me. As an urban planner, I am interested in anything that has to do with cities. So, when you see a cover like Minorville's, it demands attention. As a City of Houston employee, and having worked for other municipalities in the past, I can assure you that no city is flawless. The fictional Minorville is no exception. (I suppose my life would be Andrewsville, and would probably contain more parks than Minorville, but urban design is another topic for another time!) The album takes some of its inspiration from "Pleasantville", a 1998 movie starring Toby Maguire. It parallels the lives that we lead, lives that on the exterior are attractive and free from pain or tarnish. However, when you delve deeper, that's not the case at all.

While "We Are Champions" might be my favorite-sounding track, "Homecoming" may be the most moving track from Minorville. Chronicling the story of Katie, an All-American homecoming queen, "Homecoming" starts off with Katie praying that she would be "forever used for God's glory", but then enters into a sexual relationship, ultimately facing pregnancy, single motherhood, drug use and all of the chaotic effects of these. Now, this is a specific example, and is not descriptive of everyone that has experienced premarital sex or drug use. There is a much greater context to this example.

The middle of the song is dark, but the Lord eventually works through Katie, who is led back to the Lord, and is reminded of our dependence on Him. The greater context to this song is that Katie is shown how glorious the forgiveness and redemption of God are in the gospel. He longs for relationship with us.

Given my experience in college basketball and athletic ministry, I was reminded of this song this week when reading a recent Grantland story, by Jonathan Abrams, about Korleone Young, a former NBA player from Kansas. this was an excellent article, so if you have the time, give it a read. Young was a high-school phenom who opted to forgo collegiate athletics, and jumped right into the NBA draft, which proved to be quite a large miscalculation. Young eventually is drafted by the Detroit Pistons, but only plays in three games, for a total of 15 minutes. Then, much like the fictional Katie in "Homecoming", experiences a spiral of circumstances that led him to drugs and partying, and further from the court, and his NBA dreams.

After a series of overseas stints in Australia, Russia, China, Young was getting further from his dream of playing in the NBA. Abrams writes, "He started to think of himself as a victim. He drank. He smoked. He partied. He struggled with depression, wracked by the mistakes he'd made." Young has children that live here in the Houston area, and wishes he could be present in their lives, but feels he can't, since he cannot afford to move to Houston. It hurts me to hear Young say that he will always be a "daddy from a distance". Being present in a child's life is the most important thing a parent can do for a child, something that Young didn't have. Korleone, please reconsider! Please reconsider what Pastor Hicks said! You say you want to work with kids? Please start with your own! 

Young was a victim of circumstance at a party, having nearly been shot. Young says, "I hope I'm going up there. The land of no hurt. I don't want to sound crazy or nothing. I'm not ready to leave this earth. But when I do leave, I want to leave on the right accord."

Korleone, the Lord is ready to use you for His glory, just like Pastor Hicks says, and just like Katie in "Homecoming". Don't just hope that you'll be in heaven, be assured. You aren't crazy at all for having that hope.

When I heard this song, I couldn't help but think of something that is addressed in 1 Peter 1:10-12. Pastor Dods Pengra covered this at Sojourn a few weeks ago in "Together in Revelation". In verse 12, Peter tells us that angels long to look at the glories of God that were announced to us. Angels long to look at the glory that comes from redemption. If you're a Christian, just let rattle around in your brain for a second. I will admit, I do not have a robust theology of angels. But scripture makes it painfully clear that there is some aspect of our lives that even angels look down and desire to be a part of.

Angels long to look at the glorious redemption that takes place in our lives, much like the story of Katie in "Homecoming", and hopefully like the life of a former NBA player and high-school phenom, Korleone Young. The Lord calls us to himself, no matter what our past holds, and that is our true "Homecoming".

Be sure to download Minorville here.

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - September 13, 2013 - "Good Thing", Trip Lee

Yep, I'm engaged. Actually, we're engaged!

Emily and I became engaged on Thursday night, after a nice relaxing date to Herman Park here in Houston. After sharing some Chinese food from The Rice Box food truck, we found a nice spot in Herman Park, where we enjoyed watching the setting sun. As the sunlight began to fade, I made my move (after hiding her ring in the Yahtzee game that we were about to play!) She said "Yes, of course!" Then we enjoyed a few minutes together before calling family, and spending time with some close friends. It was a great night.

I'm looking forward to marriage. Quite a bit to be honest. I think it's a good thing. Contrary to the ideas typically perpetuated in chick-flicks, marriage will not complete Emily, or me. It won't be picture perfect either. (For instance, before heading to Herman Park to enjoy our night and propose, a bird pooped on us while we waited for our food at the Rice Box food truck! It wasn't a perfect night!) We know our covenantal adventure will be one that requires much work and attention, but we are ready to go through all of that work together. As Christians, we recognize that we are both humans who have self-centered tendencies, and marriage will continue to change us.

Even if there are difficult times, marriage will be glorious! Much like training for any large athletic event, the training and work that goes into it is not seen by many and is normally painful, but rewarding. I look forward to serving Emily, and how we might grow together in understanding what each of us are called to in marriage and in pursuing our lives in Christ. We are called to continue to know one another and serve one another in our relationship. If we see our spouses purely as sexual or financial partners, and not our best friends, we will find that the level of those partnerships will only decrease, and that we will need something outside of our marriages that will satisfy us.

Many people in their early to mid-twenties might not share these views. They might argue that marriage limits our ability to explore the world, try new things, and live a relatively unbridled life. There is some truth to that. Sure, if I were married, or had been engaged earlier, it would made things much more difficult to attend graduate school at Marshall, pursue a basketball coaching position at William and Mary, or land-use planning jobs in Virginia or Texas.

Many do not want to be "tied-down" to another for the long-term, and the idea of being together for life is too much, and is limiting. But, the reality is, that variety in relationships and the "try-before-you-buy" mentality actually traps you. It does not allow you to freely and fully love another, which is the definition of the type of love and relationship that we all seek, even if we're too independent to admit it. We become trapped in a pool of relationships that is a million miles wide, but only an inch deep. It's our understanding that only in a committed, covenantal marriage, will there be true intimacy where a husband and a wife can be free to fully love one another.

Emily and I have both read Tim Keller's book "The Meaning of Marriage" on our own, but we will be reading it together as we get closer to our wedding date. I highly recommend this book, and am thankful for the wisdom that is communicated through it.

Yes, it will be great for us to love each other in our marriage, and I am looking forward to that immensely! But the Lord's greater purpose for marriage is that it would be a picture of the relationship between Christ and His redeemed people, the Church. It's my hope that Emily and I will be able to display this truth to our family, friends, coworkers and neighbors. We're excited about what lies ahead, and know that marriage is definitely a "Good Thing"!

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - July 19, 2013

Lecrae - The Bride

It is hard to believe, but this Sunday (July 21st) will mark a year of attendance at Sojourn, a year of working for the City of Houston Planning and Development Department, and a year of living in Houston. It has been a year since I packed up my belongings and left the quaint (and amazingly beautiful and friendly) city of Harrisonburg, Virginia, to make the trek to the big, bustling city of Houston, stopping in both Chattanooga and Baton Rouge. It was difficult leaving, not because of what lie ahead, but because of the relationships that I was leaving behind, and the fact that Harrisonburg and Rockingham County were so darn blessed with natural beauty and friendly people.


I've been able to experience a good amount of Texas this past year. I have trekked to San Antonio to see the Alamo, visited Austin, gazed at a Texas night sky in the middle of the country, swam in Galveston, floated the river in New Braunfels, downed a few Lone Stars, and done a decent amount of shopping at HEB. I suppose I am finally a Texan now, having recently put Texas plates on my car to match my Texas drivers license.

Moving to a new place is not always easy, even if you've done it a few times. Whether it is within a region or across the county, having roots displaced can be traumatic personally and spiritually, as you lose the nourishment of friends, family, fellowship and familiarity. Plants, when transplanted, often go through a period of shock before regaining their regular growing pattern. (I can thank this article, and my green-thumbed parents for teaching me this). But, there are precautions that gardeners can take in order to mitigate and minimize any shock the plants receive upon transplant, in order to ensure that the plants will continue to live healthy, fruit-bearing lives. As Christians, many of these precautions are also applicable to our lives within the Church.

There's one thing that made it easy to avoid any "shock" in Houston. That would be the Church. Yes, the saints at Sojourn here in Houston are largely responsible for this, but the larger fellowship of other brothers and sisters in Christ keeps us rooted in our identities in Christ. I could have avoided the minimization of shock, but I believe that as we continue to grow in holiness, we gain an innate desire for biblical fellowship and teaching. For my transplant, a faithful comrade assisted in sharing their experiences in Houston. As I cast a wide networking net, the Lord eventually led me to Sojourn. I arrived on that Saturday night, and attended a Sojourn Sunday Gathering the next day. I haven't left yet.

Even though I have not left, there have been times where I have groaned and complained. The faithful teaching of the men that led the churches I have previously attended, and the genuine fellowship of those within those congregations, has led to a less-than-lofty expectation for my church experience, recognizing that, starting with myself, people have sinful and selfish tendencies, and that there is not a Utopian church experience. At least not yet. That will happen when Christ returns.

I've entered into a time where my personal and congregational preferences are heavily challenged. I like to have a schedule, and keep it. I'd prefer to have time to regularly exercise or explore Houston. I'd prefer to cook at home instead of eating out. I'd prefer to sing more classic hymns at Sojourn's gatherings. The list could continue. But, for the sake of continuing to be able to love and serve those in our presence, we look past our preferences.

It is apt that much of this past week has been a reflection of what life is like within the Church. My friend, and fellow Sojourner Drew Knowles wrote a necessary and encouraging reflection on relationships within the church entitled "Living With The Weeds" and church planting resident Marshall Dallas spoke on Sunday on Ephesians 4: 1-16, encouraging us that as Christians, and as a local church, we are unified spiritually, even though we continue to grow in unity in other areas, and have been given different gifts in which to serve our neighbors and church, but are all still dependent on the reconciling work of Christ.

Have I grown in holiness? Without a doubt. Has it been easy? Not a chance. It's not easy confronting others when you have sinned against them or feel they have hurt you. It's messy ending relationships or admitting personal sin. It's uncomfortable getting to know people below the surface. It's difficult surrendering personal preferences for the service of another. This holds true for any relationship, but is especially true in dedicated relationships within the church. And, even though there is difficulty, there is reward. Ephesians 4: 11-16 is a promise of this.

Overall, it's been a pretty good year in Houston. Has it always been comfortable? Definitely not. But, the comfort of Christ has continued to be lavished upon me through the Church, The Bride of Christ.

(I'm looking to explore the more natural side of Texas in the near-future, so we'll see how that goes in this second year!)

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - June 28, 2013

Not Guilty - Derek Minor (Formerly known as PRo)

In the world of athletics there has been quite a bit happening this past week or so. The Miami Heat won the NBA Championship, there were historic upsets at Wimbledon, the Chicago Blackhawks brought home the Stanley Cup to the Windy City, and the NBA Draft was once again, fairly unpredictable, though not very exciting. If this past week has revealed anything, it's that we love athletics and athletes.

One thing that seems to be common among many fans is our ability to identify or gravitate to a particular athlete. Athletes at professional levels obviously exude a particular amount of personality and passion, which draws us in. Athletes share themselves with us through social media, commercials, the press, or television appearances. We get enough information to think that we know them. I don't think they do this to fool us, but we as fans have become somewhat too eager to create a connection with them that doesn't exist. We know far less about these athletes than we give ourselves credit for.

Sure, I can name what the latest model was released was for Kobe, LeBron, Durant or Jordan. We might even know where they go for dinner, or what car they drive. Thanks to TMZ or Twitter I can find out what a particular athlete is eating or doing thousands of miles away within seconds. But we by no means actually know them. Do we ever ask these questions? What type of husband are they? What kind of father are they? Do they have a relationship with their parents? How responsible are they with their money? What motivates them? What challenges them? What brings them the most joy? Who is the most influential person in their lives? What would they want to do if they weren't an athlete? Some of these things we can find out online and on the back of trading cards, but we really have no clue about our athletic heroes.

Case in point, the story of New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez. This week Hernandez was arrested and charged with murder, and is now being connected to another murder of two men in 2012. Hernandez was an All-Pro player, won a national championship at Florida, and was making historic money for a tight end. But, his career ended abruptly this past week, as the Patriots released Hernandez.

(ESPN has a brief summary of the events surrounding Aaron Hernandez here.)

In an article by Mike Reiss at ESPNBoston.com, Reiss says that Hernandez had all of Boston fooled. (This was a refreshing, short article). I'm glad that someone in the sports media is taking note. I couldn't agree more with Reiss, and I am struggling to see why anyone is surprised. If we are honest, it's an amazing grace that we don't all follow through on some of the thoughts that go through our minds. We can all admit that we are capable of much more evil than we allow ourselves to think. We're much worse than we allow people to see.

There is an old quote from Charles Spurgeon that goes like this:

“Brother, if any man thinks ill of you, do not be angry with him; for you are worse than he thinks you to be. If he charges you falsely on some point, yet be satisfied, for if he knew you better he might change the accusation, and you would be no gainer by the correction. If you have your moral portrait painted, and it is ugly, be satisfied; for it only needs a few blacker touches, and it would be still nearer the truth.” 

Charles Spurgeon

Spurgeon's quote came to mind as our neighborhood parish was discussing Paul's letter to the Ephesian church in Ephesians 2. Paul reminds the Ephesians of where they came from, and what their old position was. Paul reminds us that we were once dead in our trespasses and sins, following the course of the world, and power of the air, and were children of wrath. Basically, what Paul is saying is that "Y'all we some bad dudes." But, right after that, Paul reminds the Ephesians (and us!) that God, in his mercy and love, changed their hearts and made them alive in Christ. While we're guilty of continuing to run from Christ and what he did for us, Christ's payment for sin fully satisfied God's righteous requirement, freeing us from guilt and our own personal attempts to "clean ourselves up."

Aaron, there's more than enough room at the cross for another murderer. If we don't think there is, we only need be reminded of Paul, and miss out on the immeasurable grace that has been extended to us. Who would we be kidding? The court of law may deem us guilty, but there is room for repentance and confession to cleanse us from eternal separation from God, giving us the verdict of "Not Guilty".

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - June 14, 2013

Community - Tedashii (Ft. Stephen The Levite and Sho Baraka)

I don't spend much time on Facebook, thank goodness, but I did spend some time earlier this week scrolling through my timeline, gaining perspective as to what people from high school and college are doing in their lives, who has gotten married, who is having children, and where people are living. My sentiments started to come together after seeing where men and women from Spartan Christian Fellowship at Michigan State University are at, especially the guys from the bible study that I was a part of, and who were the first to encourage me in my faith in Christ, modeling, as best they could, aspects of Christian community. I can testify that this commitment to community was one of the things that led me to a fuller understanding and acceptance of Christ. I experienced the same sort of community during my time at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia through our Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

This past week I had the pleasure of hosting my parents here in Houston. It was a joy to see them and for them to see my life here in Houston. As Paul states in Ephesians, he is thankful for the fellowship and hospitality of those at Ephesus. In line with Paul's thanksgiving for that church, I am thankful for the saints at Sojourn, and their hospitality at our neighborhood parish gathering, as well as our Sunday gathering. My parents, having been raised Catholic, and a bit nervous about Protestant church experiences, were welcomed most hospitably. I was a bit nervous to think how my parents would enjoy their time gathered at Sojourn. Upon the conclusion of our gathering Sunday morning, my Mom turned to me, crying a bit, and said "I get why you like it so much here." I believe that this recognition of the community of saints at Sojourn is a radical example of a commitment to the gospel, our neighbors and friends, our city, and our neighborhood that most people do not have the opportunity to readily experience.

We were designed to be in community, as reflected by the communal nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Life in community brings us into greater holiness, confession, humility, encouragement and fellowship. Even when we feel far from community, or don't desire it at all, the Lord is gracious to call us closer to community, and ultimately to Himself. If we truly desire holiness, we must experience community because we simply cannot afford not to.

In the urban planning field, there have been case studies and experiments searching for the best variables to combine to create the most successful, engaging community possible. As I continue to read "The Space Between: A Christian Engagement with the Built Environment" by Eric Jacobsen, I see parallels between the built environment and our Christian communities. If communities have broad, shaded sidewalks, people will walk and interact with their neighbors. If homes have porches and smaller front yards, people will interact on the street. If there are parks, people will recreate and enjoy physical health. If there is a variety of housing types, there will be a variety of social and cultural groups. Largely, this holds true. But there is no guarantee at success. Communities are often flawed, and as Jacobsen states, "It often takes a great deal of self-awareness and patience to maintain a commitment to a flawed community (89)."

Seaside, Florida is one of these Pleasantville-type experiments in the built environment that was supposed to combine all of the right elements, producing a vibrant beachside community. Jacobsen gives account from his visit to Seaside, noting that the amenities were there, but there was no buy-in from residents. Actually, most experience Seaside not as a permanent neighborhood, but as a vacation destination. The few who actually live in Seaside spend little time after work strolling the streets or meeting in coffee shops or bars to share a meal or drink. What has been set up is a façade of a community. While this observation holds true in the field of urban planning, this also holds true in our Christian communities, and within our churches. We can create an atmosphere that allows for community to form and those within the church can instruct us on how to gain the most fruitful experience in our smaller gatherings, but without the buy-in from those participating, those instructions would be devoid of any meaning, or bringing forth any growth or joy.

It's a joy to be part of a community where we've bought into (and have been brought into) pursuing holiness, without facades and fear. As saints, we can't afford not to be in community. I am thankful for the blessing of my communities, first at Michigan State, then Marshall, and now here in Houston at Sojourn.



"Community" - Lyrics

Friday's Weekly Rap-Up - May 17, 2013

Let There Be Light - Andy Mineo

Sojourn Community Church here in Houston, of which I am a Covenant Member, is currently in the midst of a sermon series entitled "Renewal and Revival; A Theology of the Holy Spirit." I've come to realize that the Holy Spirit is the member of the Trinity that I know least about. This past Sunday, Joseph Turner, one of our pastors, encouraged us that throughout scripture "...when the Holy Spirit is poured out on people, they cannot be quiet about Jesus!" He then went on to remind us that "the Holy Spirit allows us as Christians to speak the gospel in boldness, and make His name more abundantly known."

Given that the Spirit dwells within us, this should be our joyful response, however, our hearts are cluttered with sin, and we don't display God's glory all the time. I know that I struggle at times to reflect that glory noticeably. Admittedly, far too commonly do I display a selfish knowledge of Christ's glory and the good news of the gospel. Too many times do I not radiantly display the same glory that those who became believers in the book of Acts displayed. I've found that Christians younger in their faith than I are more excited about this truth of declaring God's glory. There is a clear selfishness occurring within me, and that must change. With God's grace, it will, over time, change.

It is a needed reminder that the Spirit does dwell within us, and that we are called to be lights for the gospel. Matthew 5:14-16 calls us to "let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." In the books of Acts, where we can see the Holy Spirit being "poured out" on people, Paul and Barnabas remind the people they are sharing the gospel with that the Lord "made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth" (Acts 17:46-49).

Without a doubt, Houston is a great city in which to live, work, play and worship. However, it is much darker than we care to give attention to, so I pray we can continue to be un-ignorable lights in the world, just as cities on a hill. Here's Andy Mineo's "Let There Be Light", which can be found on his Formerly Known album. You can download it here for free! Or, pick up a "Let There Be Light" shirt from the Reach Records store.