tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153566872012-01-10T12:35:52.617-05:00Challenge. Provoke. Inspire.Brandonnoreply@blogger.comBlogger951100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-69792641626113864302012-01-10T11:39:00.003-05:002012-01-10T12:35:52.624-05:00

If the controversy surrounding the BCS System and college football bowl format, it certainly is the most complex and misunderstood controversy.The morning after the BCS championship game, here are three talking points:1 - We're closer than ever to seeing a change in the traditional bowl format. The 2011 bowl season again proved how difficult it is to sell out every bowl game. This usually results

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-35324124428965482692011-07-18T14:07:00.003-04:002011-07-18T14:36:55.665-04:00

Without a doubt, this year's Women's World Cup was the most entertaining (on this side of the pond, as they say) since the 1999 edition of the global tournament.The USA's performance and "never say die" attitude endeared this team to many American fans rather quickly, which was no more apparent than when the team stormed back to tie Brasil in 120+ minute, before going to win in

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-15530754247788073402010-06-25T15:36:00.002-04:002010-06-25T16:11:21.885-04:00

The response from Wednesday's USA last minute thriller versus Algeria felt like the crest of a crescendo that had been swelling since 2000 or so, or maybe even 1996 at the outset of MLS.My favorite US Soccer fan type is 'Joe Fan' who only watches soccer for 1 month out of every four years. He knows general soccer lingo. He even knows the favorites to win the tournament. None of these, though, is

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-2936931976220982892009-08-19T20:27:00.002-04:002009-08-19T20:49:37.699-04:00

I was a closet Green Bay fan in high school, mainly because of some big-time Packer fans in my church. Granted, it was easy to pull for them, since they weren't rivals with America's Team -- that's right!What intrigues me the most is that three teams took different approaches to Brett Favre, and I believe they would've have been mistaken to respond differently.Packers were criticized (as was

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-82432920450886752972009-07-02T14:08:00.007-04:002009-07-06T13:40:01.489-04:00

I've been following US Soccer at a level of aficionado (fan) since 1999. I watch nearly every friendly, CONCACAF tournament game, and every FIFA tournament game.In the United States, soccer is largely misunderstood by a good number of the public, including sportscasters and other sporting professionals. Americans are used to winning every sport they're involved in internationally. Not medaling in

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-24997817654079230342009-06-25T10:54:00.002-04:002009-06-25T11:55:11.933-04:00

It's official. Shaq is a Cleveland Cavalier. Let the Cleveland nickname offerings begin! Here are some thoughts to consider with this move:The NBA East has officially become as interesting and exciting as the West. The Magic, Cavs, Celtics, Heat and Sixers are as fun to watch as the Lakers, Nuggets, Blazers, Mavs, and Hornets.This trade is the last straw for Cleveland to land LeBron in Summer

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-80593760994435148302009-05-21T15:35:00.002-04:002009-05-21T15:57:08.226-04:00

I was recently disturbed at my personal dearth of reading. I found myself thinking, "So, I'm preparing for seminary and future pastoral work, but I'm not reading much at all? That doesn't make sense."I almost find an exclusive dichotomy of either reading Scripture or reading Christian living/Theology titles. Seldom have I read a good mixture of books simultaneously. I think I'm OCD enough that I

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-68736362924259420432009-05-04T16:17:00.002-04:002009-05-04T16:32:21.800-04:00

The Google quote of the day comes from George Aiken. He states:"If we were to wake up some morning and find that everyone was the same race, creed and color, we would find some other cause for prejudice by noon."I was reminded (and encouraged) that the Gospel does not ignore or replace things (as in a simple swap). It eradicates them, putting into its place not only an acceptable thing, but the

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-78096423612242927102008-09-13T10:21:00.002-04:002008-09-13T10:48:17.115-04:00

My devotional reading often begins with the widget on my Mac "Of First Importance" from firstimportance.org. Every day, this site is updated with a Gospel-centered quote, which is usually a portion from a book or either a Scripture passage with subsequent comments. I have found that even if I preach the Gospel to myself on a daily basis, I am still in need of someone else to preach the Gospel to

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-41770874102650615652008-09-03T20:46:00.002-04:002008-09-03T20:54:44.273-04:00

Tomorrow, I begin the Fall semester to continue my M.A. in Theology at Bob Jones University in Greenville. Here's my course line-up with professor and curriculum included:New Testament Introduction | Dr. Brian Hand | An Introduction to the New Testament (Carson, Moo)Hermeneutics | Dr. Kenneth Casillas | The Hermeneutical Spiral (Osborne)Christian Discipleship | Dr. Jim Berg | Changed Into His

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-66443845151736457692008-08-26T23:06:00.003-04:002008-08-26T23:09:22.998-04:00

Duke basketball released their schedule for the '08-'09 season today. I've been waiting for this at least two weeks now. I've been to a Duke home game the past two years at Cameron Indoor Stadium. I'm be shooting for the 3-peat in 2009, as well as trying to get down to Clemson on Feb. 4th to see that game.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-89801825057134696642008-08-21T16:23:00.003-04:002008-08-26T11:15:13.309-04:00

If the idea of Preaching the Gospel to Yourself is new to you, read The Gospel Primer. This is an official book recommendation.If you are familiar with Preaching the Gospel to yourself, you still need to read the book.A couple of Brief points to make:- "Primer" is pronounced 'primmer,' in the same vein as "The New England Primer" that you learned about in elementary school.- The book is not

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-2109490155815484072008-08-18T10:02:00.002-04:002008-08-18T10:05:18.336-04:00

You gotta get a load of this. A Raleigh, NC teen dropped out of school with his parents' consent to go pro with Guitar Hero, albeit he's never actually played a real guitar. Read the News & Observer story.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-33673724664785135072008-08-07T16:39:00.003-04:002008-08-07T16:50:05.783-04:00

Get it while it's hot! From Green & Cheese to Gangrene. The Favre-Packers debacle is a story of moving on. Although I don't think the Packers handled this flawlessly, I do respect them (even though they waffled quite a bit) for choosing what is best for the franchise, both at the present and the future.I'm an Atlanta Braves fan. In my opinion, the Braves sacrificed the future of their franchise

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-62371829121196180292008-08-01T08:26:00.003-04:002008-08-01T08:30:20.868-04:00

How would the USA follow up a disappointing showing against Turkey in 2006?"They had great technique, great effort, and defensively they were much better than the World Championship team of two years ago, and they are definitely in better shape than they were two years ago, and they use a team system -- not a star system," said Turkish coach Bogdan Tanjevic."What a difference a good coach makes.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-71170058305260969832008-07-30T23:19:00.003-04:002008-07-30T23:34:38.320-04:00

Coach K has landed his 3rd straight 5-star recruit in as many classes by getting a solid verbal commitment from Andre Dawkins, a 6-5 shooting guard from Chesapeake, VA.Check it out.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-47647082777470823082008-07-18T09:02:00.002-04:002008-07-18T09:17:05.359-04:00

No shock here! The South has retained it's "fried-n-fat" reputation. Thankfully, North Carolina, my home state, wasn't indicted here.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-17369349332915261742008-07-14T12:05:00.003-04:002008-07-14T12:21:45.977-04:00

It has been announced that Billy Packer and CBS will part ways. Packer, one of my least favorite color commentators, had been working the Final Four for 34 years. His replacement will be CBS studio veteran Clark Kellogg.Packer's legacy in my mind is the combination of his "Keys to the Game" and subsequent vindicatory comments as the game progressed. How many times did I hear, "Just like I said

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-88224817559337799902008-06-27T23:35:00.003-04:002008-06-27T23:46:23.122-04:00

He's a hometown guy who played his high school ball in Raleigh, NC at Athens Drive, which is about an hour from my hometown of Rocky Mount. I've known how good he was since I was in 6th grade, having a friend whose brother played with Josh occasionally.His story contains unequaled potential (He was drafted in 1999 ahead of Josh Beckett and Barry Zito), substance abuse, and hitting rock bottom. He

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-28083694596454310272008-06-16T16:10:00.002-04:002008-06-16T16:52:36.076-04:00

Several former students have launched a campaign of sorts for the purpose of persuading Bob Jones University to apologize publicly for racially insensitive comments made by past presidents and other institutional personnel. These students have created a Facebook group as well as launched Please-Reconcile.org to facilitate interaction between past and present BJU faculty/staff and students for the

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-20732699890112730522008-06-04T14:26:00.002-04:002008-06-04T14:30:21.617-04:00

Switched.com, by engadget, is reporting that women are now spending more on electronics than on shoes. Read here.Granted, Apple costs more than Payless.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-9657754647887545512008-06-04T08:51:00.003-04:002008-06-04T11:07:01.628-04:00

...so quoted Matthew Hoskinson, Pastor of Ministry Vision at Heritage Bible Church in Greer, SC, at the outset of his AM sermon on 6.1.08. I hate to use superlatives, especially in describing things that are oft-produced or performed (books, sermons, songs, etc.). However, I can confidently say this was one of the most apt sermons to my life at the time it was preached. The sin to which he refers

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-68484145304361619452008-06-04T08:32:00.002-04:002008-06-04T08:51:32.102-04:00

There was a great explosion at the Planet, a data center in Houston, housing thousands of servers. (read article here) The explosion was said to have blown through 3 walls. Though no servers were reported to be physically damaged. So, needless to say, many companies were without service during the days that the Planet's power was down. The Worthwhile Company (where I work as a Web Strategist)

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-9549510381090477022008-05-23T23:44:00.001-04:002008-05-23T23:45:54.724-04:00

Sometimes it might just be better to be 'let go.' I mean, kid, take a hint. Read story here.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-61319512704110477452008-05-23T13:04:00.002-04:002008-05-23T13:15:16.563-04:00

Relocate-America just named its 2008 Top 100 places to live. Being from the South (NC, SC) I was excited to see two NC cities (Asheville, Charlotte) and Greenville, SC in the top 10. Ironically, these three cities are all within an hour and a half driving distance.See the story here.As a permanent Greenville resident, I fully support Relocate-America's decision.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-61605135978952760022008-03-27T16:50:00.002-04:002008-03-27T16:54:29.762-04:00

It has just recently been announced that Chuck Norris -- yes the Chuck Norris about whom more jokes have been cast than "your mom," will speak at Liberty University's graduation exercises on May 10.Read the article here.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-74255084336422479122007-11-27T20:14:00.000-05:002007-11-27T20:31:35.308-05:00

You've probably said it after blowing it royally! You have no doubt shared it with a friend who was relaying his struggles of failure to you. It's one of those comments that offers at best an artificial hope, which is as disappointing as a cold cup of coffee.The adage is "Nobody's perfect!"True, after scoring an 99% on a test, you realize that you aren't going to achieve a perfect score in the

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-52321957510770661622007-10-31T18:45:00.000-04:002007-10-31T18:46:56.234-04:00

See this post by John Piper himself on here.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-36896914302868716752007-10-26T19:43:00.000-04:002007-10-26T20:22:55.957-04:00

From time to time, I will hear sermons, devotionals or conversations regarding the topic of "change" or "sanctification," which in short is becoming more like Jesus Christ and less like the darkness from which we have been called out. (I don't mean messages with application of change, but rather messages on "change" as the theme.)Recently, I heard another one of these messages preached. The text

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-13705109461628295202007-10-26T19:26:00.000-04:002007-10-26T19:40:36.141-04:00

Crush, used as a noun, is defined as being "a brief, but intense infatuation for someone."Some call this phenomenon "hero worship" in ministry circles, but this label seems inappropriate in some cases. Sometimes people are referred to as "[insert name]-ites." This name comes as a result of a person choosing to follow another person without reserve.But, you see, a ministry crush is in no way this

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-2147113355611887002007-09-08T14:50:00.000-04:002007-09-08T15:23:22.592-04:00

In another week or so, I am set to begin a 3-week block class entitled, "Philosophy of Youth Ministry." When I saw the books to be used, I was excited. The first was, "Age of Opportunity" by Tripp. I had heard of the book and I am pretty sure my church has used it in a parenting class. But I had never read it.So, I am through the first chapter now. If the rest of the book builds on that, (and I

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-90206857245656286592007-09-01T13:26:00.000-04:002007-09-01T15:48:09.041-04:00

As far as 'seasons' go, the first of September basically signifies the unofficial start of the NFL regular season. I am an avid Fantasy Football participant, and here are my NFL 2007 predictions:NFC East: Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)NFC South: New Orleans Saints (11-5)NFC North: Chicago Bears (12-4)NFC West: Seattle Seahawks (10-6)NFC Wild Card: Dallas Cowboys (

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-21982821689584577532007-08-29T20:00:00.000-04:002007-08-29T20:23:33.242-04:00

On August 14th, I was privileged to attend "Youth Leaders Cafe" sponsored and hosted by Positive Action for Christ. (www.pafc.org) If you are unfamiliar with Positive Action for Christ (PAFC, henceforth), I would encourage you to check out their website.The topic covered at this edition of the YLC was "Training God-Focused Parents" referring to the parents of the teens in a given youth ministry.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-14491988678623864152007-01-04T10:53:00.000-05:002007-01-04T11:07:01.575-05:00

I give credit to CC for the title, but I could not think of a better label for the effect of a certain song in my life. (btw, the previous quote cannot be taken out-of-context in order to argue that all music has "effect" on all people!)Before I get hung up there, "A Debtor to Mercy" (Toplady/Kauflin, SovGrace) has had an enormous impact on me, not for its musical beauty, but rather the words of

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-90001887612978578482006-12-08T19:55:00.000-05:002006-12-08T20:15:56.033-05:00

It was a great joy to talk with a friend at the local Starbucks (one of 8, now) on Wednesday night. As we were talking about our struggles and of the joys of knowing Christ and experiencing the gospel, he brought up something that has been ringing in my ears the last 2 days. As we were talking about the gospel, he said to me, "It has occured to me that we have two common struggles with the gospel

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-11077265393063712252006-10-27T23:06:00.000-04:002006-10-27T23:27:36.874-04:00

Another book (Can We Rock the Gospel?) has been printed regarding the 'conservative' approach to Christianity's ties to rock music, however you define that term. Dan Lucarini, having co-written the book, now has two titles that bear his name regarding this topic.There are several words that come to mind when I think of the typical 'right-wing' conservative, fundamental (whatever other adj. u

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-68964899632874219782006-10-25T20:33:00.000-04:002006-10-25T20:51:49.589-04:00

On Monday, I had the privilege of preaching the power of the gospel as represented in Romans 12:1-2. A lot of Christians (especially the zealous-reformed type...) have been using the "Gospel" almost to the point where it is becoming a 'buzz word' where everybody 'knows what we're talking about, but no one can really define the term nor do they see its significance.' (Similar approach taken by

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-62736286284366418292006-10-25T20:24:00.000-04:002006-10-25T20:33:50.504-04:00

To my 3 loyal readers:Forgive me for not having written in quite a while. In the last 3 weeks I have: Written a paper on the identification of the "rock" in Matthew 16:18 (15 hours) Written a sermon on Isaiah 24 (15 hours) Preached a sermon on Romans 12:1-2 (20 hours - Research, Typing, etc.) Travelled home and back. (Good ol' Rocky Mount) Discussed the blend of Biblical and Systematic

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1158786844507503752006-09-20T17:13:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:13.282-04:00

Read here. Hilarity will ensue!

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1158437165484076422006-09-16T15:49:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:13.214-04:00

In the last year, much of my reading has been associated with worship. I, in no way, would consider myself any sort of authority on worship, yet I do claim Biblical authority on what Scripture calls worship and on what it condemns as mere idolatry in the guise of worship. I was able to preach twice in the last 6 months on "The true nature of Biblical Worship" from John 4. It has probably been one

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1158188300025891092006-09-13T18:52:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:13.154-04:00

At my "home church away from home church" (Heritage Bible Church in G'ville), my pastor, Dan Brooks, has been preaching through Matthew on Sunday nights at least as long as I have been attending (2 + years). Two weeks ago, he finished up Matthew 18 with a sermon on the parable of the wicked servant.It is my sincere conviction that our preaching be Gospel-driven, Gospel-centered. This is probably

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1157499807067093872006-09-05T19:40:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:13.094-04:00

This is a good read from a friend of mine regarding 'evangelism' or its close cousin, nicknamed here, "the hit and run and pray" approach. The article provokes several questions that need to be answered by all of us.Click here to read.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1156980143517580562006-08-30T19:09:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:13.028-04:00

Since Josh (Chandler, my friend who was severly injured in a car accident on June 2nd - chandlerupdate.blogspot.com) was moved to Charlotte for rehabilitation, I had not had the opportunity to see him, primarily since Charlotte is 3.5 hours from Rocky Mount. On the way back to school (figure it out), I passed right through Charlotte. Since I had no reason to be at school early, I had plenty of

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1155305641074107482006-08-11T10:05:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.965-04:00

While working for a local Lawn Maintenance business, where I drove one of the trucks, I became a sports radio junkie....ESPNRadio. I have to say that my favorite was Mike and Mike in the morning. They have a feature that always made me laugh, sometimes uncontrollably, although I tried to subdue it for the sake of others. I don't know the frequency, but maybe once a week, they would award the

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1152206195500062772006-07-06T13:14:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.903-04:00

Click here to read the USA Today article on the "Science of Penalty Kicks."

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1151724101659265002006-06-30T23:00:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.836-04:00

For those of you who don't 'habla espanol,' "I want the Golden Goal!" If you are familiar with the NHL playoff rules, you are aware that in Overtime (now referred to as OT), the rule is 'sudden death.' In other words, next goal wins. Well in soccer (football, futbol, voetbol, calcio, etc., et al), FIFA (Int'l soccer's governing body) had been using Golden Goal for the Extra Time in knockout

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1151011556763076392006-06-22T17:23:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.778-04:00

Several years ago, I did not understand why Argentinians would kill one of their own players. I think I understand now. I wish Claudio Reyna lived in Argentina...It's sad to say, but not having him on the field for any of our three group games gives us a better chance to win. I think even Ben Olsen outplayed him.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150908586118864832006-06-21T12:35:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.717-04:00

This is the most interesting game of the tournament as far as what is at stake. The USA need a win by at least 3 goals if the Czech and Italians were to tie. If Italy were to beat the Czech, all the USA would need is a win. Here is my "best-bet" line-up:GK - KellerD - Bocanegra, Gooch (yc), CherundoloMF - Beasley, Reyna (yc), Dempsey, O'Brien, DonovanF - McBride, E. JohnsonNotes:- 3 in the back

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150766340318675302006-06-19T21:16:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.657-04:00

This story didn't surprise me, yet it still disgusts me. A Ghana player (i don't know the adjectival form, and I'm not gonna make any jokes...) waved an Israeli flag after defeating Czech Republic on Saturday. This player plays for an Israeli club, and was merely saluting his fans who had travelled to see him. Read the full article here.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150598987053205982006-06-17T22:22:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.592-04:00

I think soccer fans will be talking about this game for years to come. An 9-man USA team outplayed a 10-man Italy team to hold on to a 1-1 draw. (I was right by the way in my last article with the score prediction.) There was much red seen in this match - from McBride's face to Mastroeni's studs-up tackle.I felt the first red card, given to an Italian, was definitely warranted. There is no

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150425384802211462006-06-15T22:22:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.533-04:00

After seeing a miserable result vs. the Czech republic, here is my proposed line-up for the Italy game:GK - KellerD - (left to right) Bocanegra*, Pope, Gooch, CherundoloMF - (left to right) Beasley, Reyna, Mastroeni (D-mid), Donovan, O'Brien*F - Eddie Johnson*, McBride*= not in line-up vs. Czech Rep.- These are my predicted substitutes:> (45') Ching for McBride> (60') Convey for Beasley> (

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150212943703795582006-06-13T11:15:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.474-04:00

Not getting a result against the Czech Republic really hurt our chances of advancing through the group stage (only the top 2 of four advance). The minimum number of points that the USA need is 4. To achieve four points we must tie and win in our next two games. A Loss all but eliminates us from contention (if Ghana beat the USA, and USA beat Italy, and the Czech beat Italy and Ghana, there would

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150145289914902362006-06-12T15:19:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.414-04:00

I am extremely embarrassed and disappointed. This is to understate my emotions toward the game today. Saying that, I do realize that the Czech are a powerhouse. They are without a doubt a top-3 team in the world. Pavel Nedved was brilliant; Cech was barely tested. Here is a grade for each player based on performance. Feel free to leave comments to vent or dispute.GK - Keller: Only had one save in

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1150083775651440982006-06-11T23:35:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.350-04:00

A close friend of mine (JW) commonly (probably tritely, as well) uses the word "stud" when referring to a fantasy sports standout. For instance, Dirk Nowitzki has been a "stud" during the 2006 NBA Playoffs. I wonder how this term came to mean "fantasy standout." The dictionary knows no such meaning for the word.Even a casual perusal of a poor man's dicitonary clarifies to its reader that a stud

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1149604939099531662006-06-06T10:39:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.226-04:00

I would like to let you know that I have created an update page for Josh, so that his family and friends can keep informed on his condition. The page will be updated 5-7 times per week. I will be receiving the information directly from the family, and I will be visiting him each week as well. Feel free to leave comments for the family on the site.The address is: http://chandlerupdate.blogspot.com

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1149391995186251362006-06-03T23:01:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.165-04:00

It all can happen so quickly. Friday night, two friends of mine were travelling from Columbia, SC to my home in NC, when they were in a severe auto accident. The occassion for the trip was a D.C. United game. Josh Chandler, one of my best friends, knew a guy that played for United, and we were to travel to DC on Saturday. Sometimes things change. Josh and Seth (Josh's friend) were on I-95

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1148734588200025662006-05-27T08:21:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:12.097-04:00

I don't often consider my life buzzworthy for personal stories, but I must make an exception for this one. I have worked lawn maintenance for 6 summers now, but no experience quite compares to this one.My crew was at the mall for the day to mow, trim, blow, pull weeds, and pick up 9 billion cigarette butts (which reproduce faster than an asexual insect). I was in the middle of a juniper bed,

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1147610877094102712006-05-14T08:32:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.966-04:00

The falls road girls overcame a physical, tough defense which packed the defensive third of the field for most of the game to claim their first girls' soccer state championship. Things were looking up as Falls Road held possession and had the best chances on goal through the first half. Danger struck the Crusaders by surprise when a Hickory forward received a centered ball at midfield, split the

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1147489978621792512006-05-12T23:04:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.905-04:00

Soft beds. Indoor pool. Wi-Fi. Complimentary Breakfast. Proximity. Price. I don't know what you look for in a hotel/motel, but one feature especially drew me near to the Hampton Inn in Fayetteville, NC as I drove in the parking lot. My exact words were: "Oh my, there's a Starbucks across the street!!!" (and yes, JWC,Jr., I thought of you as I passed that sacred place). Starbucks has been a staple

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1147489232360975912006-05-12T22:48:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.844-04:00

Shazaam! ... You know what I mean?!? OK, I'll explain. Have you ever been somewhere and a great T-shirt idea comes into your mind. You quickly write it down, because the last time this happened, you swore you'd remember, but like every other time you forgot. I guess my T-shirt fetish is derived from two avenues: (1) I worked at a camp for a summer...unique t-shirts are a must! Having a duplicate

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1147488495804847712006-05-12T22:37:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.782-04:00

I don't know where your musical taste(s) dwell(s), but one a personal favorite of mine can be found somewhere in the acoustic guitar realm. A friend of mine(SG), who is an awesome guitarrist himself from Tennessee, informed me of a "Local" from the Chattanooga area. He does vocals and acoustic guitar, along with some piano. His name is Josh(ua) Bales. Check out his webpage. Available for

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1147474630342376022006-05-12T18:49:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.711-04:00

The Falls Road (my high school) girls will be playing in the State Final in soccer for their 3rd state championship of the year. The other two were in volleyball and basketball. The Semi-final got off to a bit of a rough start as Sheets Memorial scored an early goal (9') off of a sloppy corner (you know, girls' style, where all the players stand with their hands in the air feebly attempting the

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1146792496900357722006-05-04T21:01:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.649-04:00

The USA is currently ranked 4th in the FIFA standings (that's world, people), the highest ranking ever for the States. That's cool and possibly a keeper stat, but it's not as telling as much as would be imagined or desired. Brazil, at number 1, is in a world of their own. It will take a monumental effort on the opponent's part to dethrone the soccer titans of the world. Country's ranked between 2

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1146181837677204252006-04-27T19:36:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.573-04:00

The most exciting days in the next couple of weeks for me look like this: Tues. 5/2: Bruce Arena announces the USA Men's Soccer Team Final Roster for the World Cup coming in June Wed. 5/3: My last Final Exam (the 3rd of that particular day....uggggh) Sat. 5/6: I travel home for the summer. Thurs. 5/10: Hopefully, I will be in Cary, NC watching (physically) the US

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1146180007955011762006-04-27T18:48:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.505-04:00

Having grown up in a Fundamentalist (not fightin' fundy), Baptist (not big "B) church for most of my life, I have always believed that mega churches use unscriptural methods in order to grow. I have heard all the arguments used, normally consisting of casual dress (normally meaning women wear pants and the men don't wear ties...) and "contemporary" music. While broadbrushing the category is

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1145923794423523482006-04-24T19:45:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.443-04:00

This phenomena goes almost unnoticed by most Americans and Europeans. But it didn't get passed me. You see, I'm an oddity when it comes to sports. Every Saturday morning, I check EPL (English Premier League) scores before checking the Friday Night NBA scores (if I check them at all). The UEFA Champions League holds more for me than Major League Baseball ever could. Most Americans and Eurpeans are

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1145479596946767552006-04-19T16:10:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.383-04:00

As an American white male (not being racist, just being real), I want things; I want them now; I want them a certain way...MY WAY!!! Most times, however, God does not see fit to operate according to MY WAY. In fact, He hates when I live MY WAY. It is impossible, that we would by default, approach all situations with no expectations and/or demands. I don't believe that is inherently wrong. From

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1144801145476982202006-04-11T20:04:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:11.321-04:00

I am currently in my 2nd semester of NT Greek. We have just passed the midpoint in 1 John. Translation from actual Biblical text has been a refresher. My teacher, whom I have appreciated greatly, offered 2 exegetical axioms to us today. Here they are:(1) If the author had no other choice (of a word/phrase) to use, it [his choice] is probably not significant. The point being made is, alot of

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1143908982630657362006-04-01T11:24:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:11.260-04:00

I first came across these lyrics when I listened to a cd a friend let me borrow. The music was a rewrite of a song published in 1740, the words having been written by Charles Wesley. Many times I've played this on my guitar and simply marvelled in amazement at God's amazing mercy. Meditate on these stanzas (all 13 of them): Depth of mercy! Can there be Mercy still reserved for me? Can my God

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1143415609993882492006-03-26T18:11:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:11.140-04:00

Without a doubt, the NCAA tournament gods forgot to use any of the multiple storybook endings for this year's tournament:(1) Duke: Arguably the best one-two punch in Duke history fail to win the title in their senior year. I can't imagine a team in the past having already beaten 10 of the teams in that year's NCAA tourney and still fail to make the Elite Eight. (Duke beat Memphis (#1), Texas (#2)

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1139717117338367642006-02-11T22:39:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:11.081-04:00

My Response to anti-Duke sentiment everywhere.I must admit it openly, I am a Duke fan, and it is full-blown. I can't help; I was born that way. I am not one who hops on bandwagons, for I do remember all to well the year Duke didn't make the NCAA tourney (i guess it was only one year). My point today is to give light to a few erroneous assertions.(1) You should hate Duke because Coach K is a

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1138845928772539112006-02-01T21:01:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:11.023-04:00

I have three fortunate friends in this picture. It probably won't be too hard to figure out who they are. Congrats guys! Your prediction came true! (Not that we're guilty of hero worship...haha)

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1138844353992410752006-02-01T20:35:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.962-04:00

I am in a missions class right now, and let's just say the book we are reading has some issues. It's called "What in the World is God Doing?" First of all, the author (C. Gordon Olson) basically misses the Great Commission. He's one of those "Go, Go, Go!!!" -type guys (er...I think the point is making disciples as you go) . Secondly, he says that the purpose in building the temple was for

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1138843913789178592006-02-01T20:27:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.904-04:00

This post is coming late, for a few reasons, which will go unnamed. It was recently announced that the U.S. Men's National Team (Soccer) will be training at SAS stadium in Cary, NC, the month before this year's World Cup. Let's see, Cary would be (driving the speed limit) about 1 hour and 10 minutes from my house, and I have a friend that's 3 minutes from the stadium. Can you say "Cha-Ching!!!"

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1138843464124234442006-02-01T20:11:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.845-04:00

I'm sure all have heard of the "free" things you can get online. There are some gimmicks, I know! This offer is through the Gratis! network, and it has been approved by the BBB (Better Business Bureau). I am in the process of trying to earn one. I am a poor college student just trying to keep up with technology. (haha) Help a brotha out!Seriously. You have to complete one offer. There are several

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1138153824405770692006-01-24T20:23:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.787-04:00

There are always people on both sides of the issue. Yes, I will endeavor a trip into the well-travelled blog-world of "The End of The Spear." I tread cautiously, as well. I must say I was caught by surprise at the casting of someone of Chad Allen's caliber, or lack thereof. The 'extremes' in the title refer to the reactions I have seen by Christians. You have the 'militant group' who want to

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1137886841017153302006-01-21T18:18:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.727-04:00

You have heard that it was said, "When in Rome, do as the Romans." I am not sure who goofed, but the Vice President of the USA made a major fashion faux pas while visiting President Mubarak of Egypt. "Uhh, excuse me Mr. Vice President...Mr. Vice President, I don't think your shoes go with your suit."

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1137274125864243402006-01-14T16:16:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.667-04:00

Clemson and Duke did battle today, in what turned out to be a solid college basketball game. Duke ended up winning the game by 10 to improve to 16-0. (The last time they went 17-0 was in 1991 - Duke's first college basketball title year) The key stat in the game was free throws, hence the title. Duke shot their normal 80% for the game, going 29-36. Clemson, on the other hand, shot a miserable 6-

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1137272458389214732006-01-14T15:28:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.609-04:00

For those of you who don't know who Jeff Agoos is, he was a mainstay on the US men's team as well as a perennial contributor for several MLS teams. He was on 5 MLS Cup-winning teams, tops among MLS players. I've been watching soccer since 1999, and the memory that sticks out in my mind the most about Agoos is the 'amazing' own goal he scored against (for) Portugal in the 2002 World Cup. In

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1137269841152610152006-01-14T14:31:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.546-04:00

I suspect that many have read this book by Josh Harris. It has a changed title and cover design than it did when it first hit the shelves. It's now called Sex is not the Problem (Lust is). From what I read on his website that the cover was changed because Max Lucado wrote a book with the same basic cover design as Harris used several years prior on Not Even a Hint. (I guess I wouldn't want my

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1136520732161812032006-01-05T22:46:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.479-04:00

This is definitely a post where I am in water over my head, and I am struggling to stay afloat. Yet I cannot help but make a few observations. It is obvious that the word "worship" is being used an awful lot. You cannot look for 5 seconds in a Christian bookstore without the word getting your attention. Morning service is now called by some "worship." Right now, Worship is familiar to mostly all

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1136472023954116102006-01-05T09:37:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.411-04:00

This article contains much information and is quite lengthy, but Paleoevangelical makes some valid points regarding Traditional Fundy's, 'Questioning Fundy's', and New Evangelicals.Enjoy!Click here to read.

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1136405012014108392006-01-04T14:31:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.343-04:00

This is mainly for the few friends that I have that actually check my site more than once or twice a year. (Note: that was not an official pity party!) Anyway, I just wanted to recap some of the best moments from the past 3 weeks while I have been home from college. These are in no particular order, for those of you who seek to read into absolutely everything!I drove a 2005 Corvette. It was my

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1136224295126806722006-01-02T12:33:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.278-04:00

If I were not a Christian, I would call this luck. However, since I believe in God and that He is sovereign and good, I call this a blessing from Him. It has been a lifelong dream of mine to watch Duke play in Cameron Indoor Stadium. (For those who don't know, that's men's college basketball) There is some irony that builds this story to its present moment. As I already mentioned, I have been a

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1136222414017292882006-01-02T12:05:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.211-04:00

I hope in the coming months to post some good lyrics on my blog. This is the first entry, but hopefully there will be many more to come. I hope that these will be edifying, but also useful in private worship of the Lord. Many times, after spending time in the Word, meditation on a song rich in theology and meaning can be helpful. This song written by Shane Barnard captures the struggle we as

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1135356134406942152005-12-23T11:23:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.142-04:00

You remember when you sat down in your church, your car, or maybe even a friends' house, and then it came. The person to whom you were listening dropped a hundred pound weight on the balance of your mind in the form of a shocking quotation. Each of us no doubt has experienced it. I would like to recall an experience of mine from this summer at Junior Camp.The speaker was Ed Dunlop. If the name

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1135036365217825202005-12-19T18:32:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:10.074-04:00

This will be the second time I've posted regarding a quote from my General Psychology textbook. Regardless of your thoughts on psychology, these quotes are quality. In discussion about mental handicaps and disorders, the author of the book said, "Labels are debilitating at best." He is referring to the assigning of labels to kids or adults with seeming handicaps. He is not speaking of people who

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1132719400575115042005-11-22T22:47:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:09.999-04:00

I feel that as of late I have been blogging off of my 'soap box.' However, I must continue. I have many more stones to throw from atop my perch. Today's topic is balance. I must say the idea isn't all mine as far as originality of topic.A professor of mine said, and I quote, "Truth can often be found in the middle of two extremes." Quotes like that make my ears perk up as I fasten my

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1132276632880442602005-11-17T19:03:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:09.929-04:00

Recently there was an excellent message preached in chapel at a 'certain' Bible college regarding the virgin birth of Christ. After carefully expositing Matthew 1 (the latter portion of the chapter) implications were given as to what that had to do with salvation. In the next days, I was discussing the sermon with some friends, and one of them said: "I thought it was a great message, but I just

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1132104441346447112005-11-15T19:34:00.000-05:002006-10-16T19:58:09.856-04:00

After conceding a year to the nemesis down the road a few miles, the best has risen to the top of the charts again. And no, I am not talking about the controversy between the local Fundamentalist and 'New Evangelical' churches in the area. What I am referring to is the Duke Blue Devils men's basketball team. (You may quit reading if you have a conviction about the morality of the mascots of

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1128695780931854362005-10-07T13:21:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:09.785-04:00

I was doing some reading for my General Psychology class, and I stumbled upon this perceptive quote from Sherlock Holmes in Valley of Fear (Arthur Conan Doyle). Reading this brought to mind several conversations and discussions from the last two weeks or so:> "The temptation to form premature theories upon insufficient data is the bane of our profession."As a college student, I talk with many who

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1128185666571943592005-10-01T03:55:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:09.699-04:00

If I've heard it once, i've heard it a thousand times: "It was almost as if God said to me... (you fill in the blank) I almost chuckle to myself because of the humor of this statement, yet it disappoints me to hear respected men of God say this. It often comes in the context of one's either being "called" to a place of ministry or the reminder of a familiar, yet forgotten truth. When this

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1124367234242244752005-08-24T23:38:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:08.679-04:00

If you have no idea about that which I'm writing, you probably should still read on. Maybe you'll learn a bit. The U.S. Men's National Team (Soccer) played Trinidad and Tobago last night in the Second Qualifying Phase of the CONCACAF Region. We(the U.S. team) still trail Mexico by one point in the standings. That however is a bit trivial, since the top three teams advance to the World Cup. Here's

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1124853020320871902005-08-24T11:19:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:09.619-04:00

I have been slowly plodding my way through Piper's When I Don't Desire God, which was recommended by a friend. I will extend that invitation to any Christian desiring to grow. The theme of the book is: How to win the battle of 'desiring God' in the flesh that naturally does not. Instead of detailing how to desire God (as he does in Desiring God) (amazing, i know), he deals with why we don't

Brandonnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15356687.post-1124366810806930432005-08-18T20:04:00.000-04:002006-10-16T19:58:08.609-04:00

The idea for this post was spawned by a link posted on a friend's blog referencing a current TV show episode that made Christianity the "thing to do." From t-shirts to "Be strong" bracelets, there is nothing that the culture produces that Christians, for the most part, (lest I stereotype!) don't embrace. As I have worked at a Christian camp this summer, I have seen every t-shirt known to man, it

Brandonnoreply@blogger.com