Note: This is the first of two, maybe three, posts on Third Day. Today is the band, tomorrow is a review of Wherever You Are, then on Friday I'll write about their mission opportunities.
Before going any further, please read Tai Anderson's recent experience at the U2 concert here in Atlanta. I've met Tai, Mark, Mac, Brad, and David at two local shows AND hereabouts in the Atlanta area. It's amazing who you run in to at a grocery store. : ) Needless to say to Third Day fans who already know this, but, these guys are wonderful examples of living through Christ.
Tai's post revealed the heart of a devoted fan, famous band member, and devoted follower of Christ. (Can I call Third Day famous?) His actions were justified and his heart was filled with the love for his wife, friends, and Jesus.
If you ever get the chance to watch Tai on stage, he makes playing the Bass guitar look like lots of fun. Every time I saw him play, he was bouncing around the stage with a smile on his face.
One last thing about Tai - he helped convert me from a Microsoft Windows guy to an Apple Mac one. Believe me, less troubles with a Mac than a PC.
Next, I'm going to write quick snippets on Mac, Mark, and Brad. I'll save David for last.
Brad is the most intense guitar player I've ever seen. Watching Brad on stage is AMAZING! He definitely feels the music and it envelops him. Every time he sways with the guitar riffs, you want to sway with him. Catch him smiling when he's, "in the groove".
Can anyone on this planet even come close to replicating Mac's voice? I didn't think so either. Whether he's speaking or singing, his voice resonates a meaningful tone. He's thoughtful and caring. I snapped a picture of him and my son at the All Access concert in Atlanta. Andrew won't part with it for nothing. Thank you, Mac.
Okay, as Brad is intense and brings the music to a high, Mark Lee makes the music come alive with vibrant chords and riffs. He bounces around the stage as well as Tai. Is it fair to say that Mark 'marries' the sounds together? I'll let you be the judge of that. Mark also reads and writes a good deal as seen on Third Day's blog. I check it out a couple times a week. Great stuff!
Last, but certainly not least in my book, is David. I've met him 'in the public square' and I'll say this: He is very humble and willing to speak. As with the other band members, David loves doing things for his family, which marks very high in my book. David, as with Brad, is intense behind the drums. He 'feels' the music wonderfully and balances the guitars with various beats.
If I had to say there was a leader on Third Day, I would definitely say it is Jesus Christ. For only Jesus could give these men the inspirational talent, perseverance, and love to produce fruitful albums, tour, and meet fans such as me and my family.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Beware the Fire Pole
This from the AJC.com... Woman sues for injuries from sliding down fire pole at party
For some reason, my brain just can't comprehend this right now.
Maybe later...
For some reason, my brain just can't comprehend this right now.
Maybe later...
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Mercer University and the Georgia Baptist Convention
From the AJC...Baptists vote to slash Mercer ties
(you'll need an account)
Mercer University is traditionally Baptist with longstanding ties to the Georgia Baptist Convention. However, these ties, which have become worn through the years, are about to end. According to The Christian Index, the Mercer Triangle Symposium held a "Coming Out Day" for gays and lesbians back on October 11th. Yet, according to R. Kirby Godsey, Mercer President, the Triangle Symposium was meant as a tool for dialogue and not encouraged by the university.
As of Tuesday, November 15th, the conservative force behind the Georgia Baptist Convention voted on a measure to end it's relationship with Mercer, since it cannot control the university's Board of Trustees. Therefore, if the measure is made final next year, the GBC will cease giving $3.6 million annually in scholarship money.
As a theology graduate student at the McAfee School of Theology, Mercer - Atlanta campus, I am troubled by the GBC's sharp-turn measure against the school. Is this really about a gay and lesbian organization meeting on school grounds OR is this about the lack of a conservative movement on behalf of the university? I don't think so. Therefore, at the center of the GBC's vote is the lack of control; control of what takes place at Mercer.
If one were to look at the quality of education at Mercer University, you would begin with President Godsey. In the many years of being president, he has taken this university and made it great. For example, look at enrollment or donations. Both are incredibly high. Mercer is also ranked amongst the top universities in the nation.
Now, would President Godsey jeopardize the university's fine reputation for doing something stupid? No, he wouldn't. His intentions are pure; he wants only the best for Mercer and it's students. Take my word for this: I've met President Godsey and his heart is in the right place. He encourages academic freedom while glorifying Christ. The Mercer faculty encourages the same values.
But alas, there are some things I will never understand. I will never understand a body, like the GBC, ripping it's relationship from Mercer without speaking with President Godsey first, students second. I fully support President Godsey, the faculty, and students of Mercer for their grace and love in Christ. For this measure really hurts Mercer's students the most. Students who rely on GBC's annual giving.
Listed below are the articles to "The Christian Index" and the GBC's measure.
The Christian Index
GBC Measure
(you'll need an account)
Mercer University is traditionally Baptist with longstanding ties to the Georgia Baptist Convention. However, these ties, which have become worn through the years, are about to end. According to The Christian Index, the Mercer Triangle Symposium held a "Coming Out Day" for gays and lesbians back on October 11th. Yet, according to R. Kirby Godsey, Mercer President, the Triangle Symposium was meant as a tool for dialogue and not encouraged by the university.
As of Tuesday, November 15th, the conservative force behind the Georgia Baptist Convention voted on a measure to end it's relationship with Mercer, since it cannot control the university's Board of Trustees. Therefore, if the measure is made final next year, the GBC will cease giving $3.6 million annually in scholarship money.
As a theology graduate student at the McAfee School of Theology, Mercer - Atlanta campus, I am troubled by the GBC's sharp-turn measure against the school. Is this really about a gay and lesbian organization meeting on school grounds OR is this about the lack of a conservative movement on behalf of the university? I don't think so. Therefore, at the center of the GBC's vote is the lack of control; control of what takes place at Mercer.
If one were to look at the quality of education at Mercer University, you would begin with President Godsey. In the many years of being president, he has taken this university and made it great. For example, look at enrollment or donations. Both are incredibly high. Mercer is also ranked amongst the top universities in the nation.
Now, would President Godsey jeopardize the university's fine reputation for doing something stupid? No, he wouldn't. His intentions are pure; he wants only the best for Mercer and it's students. Take my word for this: I've met President Godsey and his heart is in the right place. He encourages academic freedom while glorifying Christ. The Mercer faculty encourages the same values.
But alas, there are some things I will never understand. I will never understand a body, like the GBC, ripping it's relationship from Mercer without speaking with President Godsey first, students second. I fully support President Godsey, the faculty, and students of Mercer for their grace and love in Christ. For this measure really hurts Mercer's students the most. Students who rely on GBC's annual giving.
Listed below are the articles to "The Christian Index" and the GBC's measure.
The Christian Index
GBC Measure
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Movie Review
Good Night, and Good Luck
Despite my moderate-Conservative self, I am giving big kudos to George Clooney, director and actor, in this tale of Edward R. Murrow and Joseph McCarthy. Clooney managed to tell a story by staying away from the vile nature of rated R or PG13 films. Let's hope other actors will follow his lead.
Personally speaking, I am a big fan of Murrow. He set the stage for factual journalism. He strongly believed in the truth; not news entertainment which runs rampant today. Murrow never mixed words nor used flowery language.
If you want more information on the life of Edward R. Murrow, go here to Wikipedia.
Good night, and good luck.
Despite my moderate-Conservative self, I am giving big kudos to George Clooney, director and actor, in this tale of Edward R. Murrow and Joseph McCarthy. Clooney managed to tell a story by staying away from the vile nature of rated R or PG13 films. Let's hope other actors will follow his lead.
Personally speaking, I am a big fan of Murrow. He set the stage for factual journalism. He strongly believed in the truth; not news entertainment which runs rampant today. Murrow never mixed words nor used flowery language.
If you want more information on the life of Edward R. Murrow, go here to Wikipedia.
Good night, and good luck.
Darfur: No Signs of Peace
From CNN...U.S. envoy shouts at Darfur official
Anyone keeping up with the atrocities in Darfur, knows full well the human devastation taking place. Men, women, and children are murdered every day. No place is safe.
As much as U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick is trying to uncover the truth behind why negotiatons aren't working, it's not helping. Why? No one wants to cooperate. A corrupt government and bands of thugs aren't going to negotiate. They would rather rape women, shoot each other, and starve children than work towards peace.
Sadly, I don't foresee a solution to this mess. Radical groups want all the power. They won't compromise. And just like the Sunnis and Shiites, words mean nothing. One says they'll work for peace while the other holds a gun to their head. It just doesn't work.
Let's pray God will show himself and end all this needless bloodshed. We need to have hope and faith in Him.
Anyone keeping up with the atrocities in Darfur, knows full well the human devastation taking place. Men, women, and children are murdered every day. No place is safe.
As much as U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick is trying to uncover the truth behind why negotiatons aren't working, it's not helping. Why? No one wants to cooperate. A corrupt government and bands of thugs aren't going to negotiate. They would rather rape women, shoot each other, and starve children than work towards peace.
Sadly, I don't foresee a solution to this mess. Radical groups want all the power. They won't compromise. And just like the Sunnis and Shiites, words mean nothing. One says they'll work for peace while the other holds a gun to their head. It just doesn't work.
Let's pray God will show himself and end all this needless bloodshed. We need to have hope and faith in Him.
Republican Woes
From the NY Times...House Shelves Alaska Drilling in Budget Fight
This has been a tough couple of weeks on we Republicans. Let's review a series of foolish mistakes made by our wonderful politicians:
1. Tom DeLay is indicted on campaign finance charges. As much as I like DeLay, you should never, ever jeopardize yourself no matter your profession. Integrity, always.
2. I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby is indicted for leaking CIA information.
3. Both parties are to blame for outrageous government spending. Duh!
4. The American public is tiring of the war in Iraq.
5. President Bush's approval rating is sinking.
6. Harriet Miers. Need I say any more?
Pro-life Democrats, here is your charge: Start campaigning NOW! This is your time. Oh, and stay out of trouble...
P.S. If you're wondering if I'll vote for a pro-life Dem, you can bet your salary I will. The Republicans, as a whole, can't seem to get their act together regarding their morals, spending, and issues of importance. Now, does this mean there aren't any good Republicans left? No, it does not. They at least have a better stance on morals than many of their liberal-Democrat counterparts.
This has been a tough couple of weeks on we Republicans. Let's review a series of foolish mistakes made by our wonderful politicians:
1. Tom DeLay is indicted on campaign finance charges. As much as I like DeLay, you should never, ever jeopardize yourself no matter your profession. Integrity, always.
2. I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby is indicted for leaking CIA information.
3. Both parties are to blame for outrageous government spending. Duh!
4. The American public is tiring of the war in Iraq.
5. President Bush's approval rating is sinking.
6. Harriet Miers. Need I say any more?
Pro-life Democrats, here is your charge: Start campaigning NOW! This is your time. Oh, and stay out of trouble...
P.S. If you're wondering if I'll vote for a pro-life Dem, you can bet your salary I will. The Republicans, as a whole, can't seem to get their act together regarding their morals, spending, and issues of importance. Now, does this mean there aren't any good Republicans left? No, it does not. They at least have a better stance on morals than many of their liberal-Democrat counterparts.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Slow Week
Aside from goofy cheerleaders, idiots burning France, and the research being done on Supreme Court Justice nominee, Alito, this week has been rather, well, boring.
Even Microsoft's news of it's game console, Xbox 360, seems rather weak. Microsoft is predicting sales to be rather skewed, due to the fact that their newest Xbox will be the only contender in this year's Christmas sales. What a shame. I believe in fierce competition and therefore wish Sony would get off their butts and sell Playstation 3. But alas, I'll have to wait.
This strategy, of avoiding direct console sales openings with Microsoft, may be beneficial. Besides, Christmas sales wane the week before Christmas day and might not be the bang Microsoft is looking for. Yet, and I do mean yet, stranger things have happened...
(Cue flashback...)
Remember the authentic cabbage patch dolls? People were stealing them from each other's trunks. And how about the first Power Ranger dolls? I can remember lines of people, in front of toy stores, just to get the "Red Ranger". Tickle-Me-Elmo? Nintendo Gameboy SP's? Microsoft Xbox? Halo? Halo2? Freaky how people act over a toy or game.
My piece of advice: Start shopping now before you lose your senses. You'll thank yourself, and Santa, later.
Even Microsoft's news of it's game console, Xbox 360, seems rather weak. Microsoft is predicting sales to be rather skewed, due to the fact that their newest Xbox will be the only contender in this year's Christmas sales. What a shame. I believe in fierce competition and therefore wish Sony would get off their butts and sell Playstation 3. But alas, I'll have to wait.
This strategy, of avoiding direct console sales openings with Microsoft, may be beneficial. Besides, Christmas sales wane the week before Christmas day and might not be the bang Microsoft is looking for. Yet, and I do mean yet, stranger things have happened...
(Cue flashback...)
Remember the authentic cabbage patch dolls? People were stealing them from each other's trunks. And how about the first Power Ranger dolls? I can remember lines of people, in front of toy stores, just to get the "Red Ranger". Tickle-Me-Elmo? Nintendo Gameboy SP's? Microsoft Xbox? Halo? Halo2? Freaky how people act over a toy or game.
My piece of advice: Start shopping now before you lose your senses. You'll thank yourself, and Santa, later.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Elmo Knows Your Name...
In news of the weird, one of the hottest new toys to hit the market is the, "Elmo-Knows-Your-Name" doll. Apparently, the doll can be hooked up to your PC and, through software, programmed to know your child's name.
So, I gave it a try on Sunday at the Super Walmart. I programmed the Elmo to say, "Jesse Jackson", and, lo and behold, Elmo said his name.
"I love you, Jesse Jackson.", Elmo blurted.
Of course the downside, to this goofiness, was explaining to my two boys 'who' Jesse Jackson is. Ah, parenthood.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Third Day: All Access Tour
If you're a big fan of the Christian rock band, Third Day, then this tour is for you. However, there is a catch: You can only win tickets to these small-venue shows. I had the great honor of winning tickets to last night's kickoff tour, here in Atlanta, Georgia, at Earthlink Live.
Sparing a long post for now, my oldest son and I attended the event. It was first come, first get for the seats. My son, who is 8, ran like the wind to get seats on the front row. We were only about 3 or 4 feat away from the band.
Third Day played the first hour (?) for a live radio and Internet simulcast. What this basically means is that the crowd and band are instructed per radio time, i.e. when to cheer and when the band was to play.
The highlight of the concert (for me) came on their second song, "Come Together", when Mac Powell waved to my son. I was beaming while my son was in shock. Of course the concert as a whole was awesome!
After the performance, Third Day was very generous to stay around, sign autographs, and talk to us. I felt bad because I know they wanted to get home to their families. My son and I met and spoke with them.
Mac, David, Tai, Brad, and Mark are the nicest, most humble guys you would ever meet. We've met them twice now (I've even met David a couple of times), and they are always willing to talk and, most importantly, praise God. If I'm sounding mushy, it's because all this is true.
I'll post a more detailed evening event later with pictures.
Be at peace!
Sparing a long post for now, my oldest son and I attended the event. It was first come, first get for the seats. My son, who is 8, ran like the wind to get seats on the front row. We were only about 3 or 4 feat away from the band.
Third Day played the first hour (?) for a live radio and Internet simulcast. What this basically means is that the crowd and band are instructed per radio time, i.e. when to cheer and when the band was to play.
The highlight of the concert (for me) came on their second song, "Come Together", when Mac Powell waved to my son. I was beaming while my son was in shock. Of course the concert as a whole was awesome!
After the performance, Third Day was very generous to stay around, sign autographs, and talk to us. I felt bad because I know they wanted to get home to their families. My son and I met and spoke with them.
Mac, David, Tai, Brad, and Mark are the nicest, most humble guys you would ever meet. We've met them twice now (I've even met David a couple of times), and they are always willing to talk and, most importantly, praise God. If I'm sounding mushy, it's because all this is true.
I'll post a more detailed evening event later with pictures.
Be at peace!
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