Thursday in La Paz

First off, I just want to say thanks to my good friends in Christ who have supported me thus far.  It's especially encouraging to receive such positive/inspiring words as I try to follow God wholeheartedly in this season of my life.  So thanks again (you know who you are :)

Another day in the dessert and I am doing all I can to serve God during my stay here at the Ranch and attempt to be still enough to hear his voice.  In efforts to do so, daily I'm trying to take at least an hour to listen in silence and wrestle with scripture.  This is a discipline I have historically been very bad at and am so pumped to be working hard to make it a vital part of every single day.

I can't stress how great the Gatto family has been to me during my time here (yes, even the kids haha - sometimes they are nuts just like me which is great).  Pete has been someone I can throw pretty much anything at and challenges me consistently.  He is another brother in Christ who can hold me accountable to following and serving God with everything.  We continue to ask questions about why God leaves us waiting or allows us to go through so much unknown in our lives.  We have been reminding each other "It is finished" "Hear God - do what He says" "Love Him and be willing to serve." He and his family has been a real blessing.

I finished the book I mentioned in the earlier post (PS Dan Broekhuizen gave it to me - for anyone who knows him/needs a good book just ask him and he will recommend some great stuff :)  The end really struck me hard as it explained how even a wise man can get caught up in the approval of others.  It's amazing how often I do things just because I think others people will approve of me.  Loving/following/serving Christ will not be approved by everyone.  And this truth has reaffirmed my commitment to be faithful to the savior of the world.

Pete suggested I check out Psalm 3.  (Despite this being a reference of war/not of peace) It really helps paint the picture of how David felt in extreme opposition and remained faithful to the heart of God.  How we Love people is how we love God (my generalized summing up of the greatest commandment). But loving others does not mean we need their approval.  This can at times be very hard for me especially when God calls me to something outrageous.

Time to jet.  More pics below.  Later Gator's.

 Little Noah and drummer Sam rocking out in my room!

 We got some play time. That's how it felt.

 Dessert Pic.

 Have another.

 Sam (Pete/Cher's oldest) standing on his 4 wheeler.

I'm following the pro.