Christopher · Sandra · Adah · Ranen

Never Came To Pass

Christopher Bennage

We had a grand idea for one of those

Merry Christmas/Happy New Years cards where you get a professional photo of the family, write a summary of the year, and mail it to every one you know. We got as far as taking the photos and doing the graphics design, but...
well...

Click the thumbnail for the full image.

You know, language skills...

Christopher Bennage

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?
Christopher's Linguistic Profile:

65% General American English
20% Dixie
15% Yankee
0% Midwestern
0% Upper Midwestern

Sandra's Linguistic Profile:

55% General American English
20% Yankee
15% Dixie
10% Upper Midwestern
0% Midwestern

Vance's Linguistic Profile:

55% Car Guy
20% Star Wars Geek
15% Napoleon Dynamite
5% So I Married an Axe Murderer
5% English

Alex's Wedding

Christopher Bennage

Alex Buck and Anna Campbell wed today. It was a lovely wedding, set in Madison, FL. Fantastic weather, fantastic people. Alex called me earlier in the week to help out with the sound system for the reception. Michael and I (mostly Michael) put together some equipment and went a few minutes early to the chapel. As we were setting up, Alex clarified that he wanted me to MC the reception. I gladly accepted, and had a wonderful time doing it.

As I reflect upon the past, I recall other times, such as helping newlywed Jim and Crissa Lehman move into their apartment. They called Steve Kagy and I as they were on their way to Tallahassee. Steve & I reveled afterwards in being asked to help.

Here's my insight into myself. I really enjoy doing things like that; filling a need, playing a small part in a larger and important drama. It give me such great pleasure to be of use to my friends. To be there for Alex and Anna, on their day of days, to serve them in some simple purpose, meant so much to me.

The Final Hours

Christopher Bennage

It is now just a matter of hours before I turn 30.
I did not expect such an emotional rush. I've anticipated tomorrow for a good while.
Thirty.
Official adulthood.
Midlife.
Where am I?
Professionally, I'm working more and making less money than I have in over eight years (not counting my time at Red Letter 9). I have gray hair that wasn't there 18 months ago. I'm keenly aware of stress buildup in my shoulders and fat buildup on my belly.
Health-wise, I can't imagine being less active. Although, I am able to type rather quickly (and without looking).
Emotionally and mentally, I am improved. I am more like a man than I ever have been. I do see the world more clearly than I ever have. Clarity means a lot.
Spiritually, I understand a great deal more. I am convicted about a great deal more. Most importantly, I am gracious about a great deal more.
In all things I lack discipline.

So what now? What next? There is something critical to me about this next phase in life. Jesus began his ministry at age 30.
I have no plan, no clear vision. In a special way I am without purpose. In a general way, I am purposeful.
I want to love my wife.
I want to raise my daughter.
I want to create. I want to serve.

My prayer at age 30 is this:

Teach me your way, O Lord;
Make my paths straight.
Light in me the fire that is your Spirit,
That I may burn with life...

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Never Came To Pass

You know, language skills...

Alex's Wedding

The Final Hours