The Road Less Traveled

Trying to be a Godly Family

It has been three weeks since Erik was born. Looking back to just four weeks ago, it is amazing how life changes. Since we already have an older daughter, we know some of what was coming, but God always has more plans of His own, than He isn't so willing to share with us until He is ready to share them. We know there will be many more lessons to learn and wrongs to fix as a parent in the near and distant future. Praying daily as we do, we ask God to give us the strength (sleepless nights), the wisdom (what does this cry mean,) and the ability to laugh (when your baby lets out a BIG one during a service and you turn 20 shades of red) throughout any and all situations.

I am also continually discovering more about myself as a pastor. When Kirsten was born, I was a teacher and principal, which had it's challenges in and of itself. But I now look at my calling, in the Office of the Public Ministry, Pastoral Office,through the lens of Scripture  as it pertains directly to 1 Tim. 3:1-7. But what catches my eye especially are these words from verses four and five, "4He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. 5(If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)"

I find it interesting that of all the necessities for being an overseer the one that is spoken of the most is that of family. Certainly it is important to be hospitable, and self-controlled and respectable etc., but why does St. Paul go at length about the family?

Before I answer this question from my perspective, I would love to hear from you as to why you think St. Paul draws family out more than the other areas.

Patriots offer Contract to Zach Thomas

The Miami Herald reports that the New England Patriots have offered Zach a contract.  You have got to be kidding me! What is going on here? Half of the Patriots team (exaggeration I know) is ex-Dolphins that have been "let go." Can anyone say more than Wes Welker. Remember Junior Seau? Oh, yeah, he "retired." How about Larry Izzo. RB Sammy Morris.

This is going to be tough if he accepts this. Not since Marino have I had a favorite player and now he is going to the enemy!! UUGGGHHH  Say it isn't so!!!

Dolphins Release Zach Thomas...Sad Day

Dear Mr. Thomas (Zach),
     Thank you so much for your years of hard play and dedication.  It was a sad day today when I heard the news that the organization would release you. I felt like I was loosing a friend. I have watched and admired you for the 12 seasons you were on the field. You were an inspiration to those on the team and those in the stands. (My email address even sports your number as well as your brother-in-law, Jason. dolfan5499@comcast.net)
    When my wife and I got married, the first Christmas present she bought me was this authentic #54 jersey. To this day, it has still been the best present my wife has ever given me and I wear it proudly. I will continue to wear that jersey in honor of you. I have carried my daughter in my arms as she grew up each Sunday while I was wearing that jersey and now that my son is just born, he will grow up knowing your number and they way you played the game. My only regret is that as a life long Dol-fan, I will never get that jersey signed.

Thanks for the memories and sorry you didn't get that ring.You don't need the ring to have honor.

A faithful follower,
Roy

It's a Boy. . . Erik Matthew Olsen

Joann was incredible. She went into labor and delivery after 7 pm, Friday night, Feb. 1st, and Erik was born at 7:50 pm. It went by so fast. Erik is 7.5 lbs and 20.5 inches. Kirsten is excited that she was .5 inches longer. It is starting already. Just came home for a few minutes and going back to the hospital. Looking forward to the Baptism next Sunday, Feb. 10th, at 8 am worship. Lot's of family and friends.

Thank you for you prayers and support. I am so thankful to God for a great wife and mother like Joann and a healthy baby. Miracles still happen. More pictures in the future.