My Days are Numbered

How to Live

This past weekend at church one of our pastors said something that caught me off guard. It was something that wasn't a part of a message or even a prayer, but it struck a chord with me and I can't stop thinking about it.

Pastor Q, said something to the effect of, "Live your life like your days are numbered."

Not in a morbid "your going to die in seven days for watching the wrong VHS tape" sort of way, but in a "time really is running out" sort of way. So what are we waiting for!

We go through this rat race of life chasing after fame, fortune, accolades, things that scream "Look at me! Look at me!" Look at my new TV, it's huge and yet so flat! Look at my new car, it's so shiny! Look at my new ________! (fill in the blank with whatever fits)

There is nothing wrong with a new TV or Car or House or any of that stuff, but where is our hearts desire? Who are we chasing after? Think back on the story of King Solomon. (Yes, the guy in the Bible)

When King David died, one of his sons, Solomon, became king. Now, Solomon was a young man and he didn’t feel very confident about being the king. One day he went to sacrifice some of his animals to God. This was a way that he could tell God how much he loved Him. That night something happened. While Solomon was asleep, he had a dream. In his dream God asked him a question. God said, “Ask for anything you want. I will give it to you.”

(Wow!! Can you believe it? Solomon could ask for ANYTHING he wanted, ANYTHING! The technology for a TV or new chariot, new kingdom, glory, literally anything)

Solomon answered, “God I am like a child. I do not have the wisdom I need to run the kingdom. I ask that you give me wisdom to rule Your kingdom.” God was so pleased with Solomon’s request. God was proud of Solomon because he didn’t choose a long life or riches. Because of this, God gave Solomon wisdom—AND riches and honor.

His heart was right were God wanted it. Solomon put God first. Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek you first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you."

I say all this because what my pastor said really sparked all that in me! Time is running out, our days are numbered. Who knows when our last breathe will be, so in the mean time run after what God has and let's tell the world about His loving grace and peace and joy and kindness and all that HE is to you and I. Imagine if you only had one day left to tell your family about eternity, would you waste it chasing the glory of a new porche 911 turbo or would you spend it on plane tickets racing against time to tell everyone in your family about a love that knows no end?

Carlos

Finger Biter

How Cute

A home video of a toddler biting his brother's finger and then smiling broadly has become a YouTube hit, with more than 65 million views. How? I don't know. But it is kinda cute. Sort of.



Now I will say this. My sister is a toe biter! As a kid one day I was not paying her any attention and in an effort to get mine, she bit me. AND DREW BLOOD! No joke. It really happened.

Carlos

Interstate Batteries

Showing God's Love

How cool is this. Interstate Batteries Chairman Norm Miller is stepping and telling people about his faith and about God's amazing love. Check out the video:



Pretty neat and right before Christmas!

Carlos

Join The Conspiracy

Advent Conspiracy

Olivia from Mid-days got me turned onto this idea that I agree is pretty amazing! Check out the video below.

Join The Conspiracy!

Carlos

God is Good

Even on Black Friday!

So it took me a few days to write this blog about my BLACK FRIDAY experience mainly because this year it was so unbelievable. Let's go back a few days.......Buzzzz, Bleeep, Blooop, Bang! (Those are my time machine noises)

Ok, so Friday morning I go shopping and by shopping I mean hunting for a certain TV I've had my eye on since I first saw the ad in the paper Thursday afternoon. You know it's funny how on Black Friday, that's the only day you throw normal thought patterns out the window. Normally, I would mull over the decision of buying a TV or any purchase over $200 for a few days. But on Black Friday, oh no, you throw all that thought out the back door and you just go, go, go! So I did. Straight to Sears.

I'm in line now when the guy ahead of me asks me what I was eyeing in the store. I proudly point to my beautiful TV, a 46" LCD HD 1080p TV by Sharp on sale for $899. "Wow" he says, as he points to another TV which was to be his purchase. We small talk for a few moments and then just continue waiting in line.

He walks up to the cashier guy at the register to make his purchase of what I thought would be the 47" Sony he pointed out to me earlier. What I see next shocks me. HE POINTS TO MY TV! My 46" Sharp LCD HDTV in full 1o80p splendor! My TV! Not his Sony, My Sharp! But what can I do? Nothing! Just stop and stare at the sight laying before my very eyes. My heart skips a beat, my jaw hits the floor, my blood boiled a bit. But again, what can I do? Nothing. It's the rules of Black Friday. The early bird gets the worm, they say. I can up one worm short this morning. But I held on to hope that there may be a few more.

My turn. As I begin my walk over to the register, "Mr. Stealer of MY 46" Sharp LCD HDTV in full 1080p splendor" stops me and says, "Hey I just bought the last of those TV's you wanted, I'll sell it to you right now for $150 more than advertised. It's still a great deal, you want it?" I thought about it for maybe 2 seconds and said, "No thanks, I'll take my chances." I was thinking in my head, "NO WAY! HOW DARE YOU TAKE MY TV YOU JERK!" But a quick prayer calmed my head and I just said, "Lord if it's meant to be, let it be".

No more TV's. WHAT!?!?!?!?! "Can you check?", I ask the sales guy. The back room? Anywhere? Somewhere? He says he'll go back and make sure for me, sometimes we get lucky. About 5 minutes later he comes back with a smile and says, your a lucky man. I got one and it's yours! Sweet!!! DEAL!!! Or so I thought. I make my purchase, I'm a happy fellow and off I go to continue my black Friday shopping elsewhere telling the young man I would be back for my TV later in the day.

High Noon. I arrive to pick up my TV only to be told they gave my TV away to someone else! WHAT!?!?!?! God is SO GOOD!

My original TV that I wanted to purchase was a 52" Samsung HDTV that I could not afford. Even the 46" model was out of my price range. I settled for the Sharp because it, A. Fit my budget. B. Met my needs for a TV. and C. My wifey OK'd the purchase of the Sharp, not the Samsung. Refer back to point (A) for her reasoning on point (C).

Anyway, after giving away my Sharp the sales guy, not wanting to lose the commission on his sale tells me he will make up for the blunder on their part. He walks me over to the 46" Samsung HDTV in full 1080p splendor, 20,000 : 1 contrast ratio glory and says these magic words, "Sears would like to apologize for it's error and offer you this TV at the price you paid for the Sharp." I almost cried. Well not really, but it sounds about right.

God is always there in the big and small. This is a small. In the grand scheme of things the TV makes no difference in my life or my life for His glory. But looking back I could have done so many wrong things. I could have yelled or been rude to the guy who swiped my TV in line ahead of me, or to the sales guy, I could have let that whole situation get out of control. But what I did was give it to God. I said, Lord let your will be done. Maybe he rewarded me and set things in motion to bless me with my real hearts desire the Samsung I couldn't afford for a price I could. I'll give God the glory for that! My mom would always say a prayer before she went shopping. "Lord point me in the direction where I can best use the gifts you've given me to be a good steward with what I have."

Maybe God taught me a lesson that everything is His. So give it to Him first and He might just bless you going in and coming out!

Carlos

My Dad

I Love My Dad

Over the weekend my Dad and I had one of those great Father-Son heart to heart talks. The ones where you lay out everything. Life, Love, Faith, Friends and just talk to each other. We hadn't had one of those talks in a few years and after Sunday I think I may make this something we do a little more often. One thing we talked about was "Happiness" and the pursuit of it.

First, he hit me with this. "Son, everything we do here, we should do first to honor God. Because that and only that should be what we love first and foremost. Not your wife, not your job, not even me. God." I stopped to think about that and all I could say was, "Yeah, But......" But nothing he says, our first love should always be God.

Wow. I know right. How often do I put other things in front of the one who gave me life and gave his son to save it? How often to we put our careers, love, family, friends in front of the one who gave us everything?

(Again, I say, "wow"...but to myself this time...I didn't need another look of "Yeah, son I know I just blew your mind, type of looks")

Matthew 6:33 simply says, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

There is the pursuit of happiness in all its glory. In that simple phrase. God the Father of all is just up there waiting for us to truly put him where he belongs in our lives. Number One, Numero Uno.

Note: Psalm 37:25: Here is an observation of King David. "I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor His seed begging for bread."

God is faithful! He keeps His promises! Put Him first and then just watch Him bless you! And you'll find whatever it is you've been looking for.

Be Blessed and many thanks to my Dad.

Carlos

Skills Every Man Needs

Before 30

Ok, ok to be fair Abby made me go over the list of 25 Skills every man needs to know before turning 30. Being that I am nearing that milestone as well I should get started on this list. I've got some work to do...

Here's the list:

1. Patch a radiator hose
2. Protect your computer
3. Rescue a boater who has capsized
4. Frame a wall
5. Retouch digital photos
6. Back up a trailer
7. Build a campfire
8. Fix a dead outlet
9. Navigate with a map and a compass
10. Use a torque wrench
11. Sharpen a knife
12. Perform CPR
13. Fillet a fish
14. Maneuver a car out of a skid
15. Get a car unstuck
16. Back up computer data
17. Paint a room
18. Mix concrete
19. Clean a bolt action rifle
20. Change oil and filter
21. Hook up an HDTV
22. Bleed brakes
23. Paddle a canoe
24. Fix a bike flat
25. Extend your wireless network

Wow...after going through that list I've got a lot of work to do. Thank you Popular Mechanics for making me feel inadequate. lol

Carlos

Skills Every Woman Needs

Before 30

This morning Abby and I covered a list of 25 Skills every woman needs to know before she turns 30. Abby is nearing 30 and lets just say she's got her work cut out for her...lol.

Here's the list:

1. Hard Boil an Egg
2. Diplomatically tell Mom to butt-out
3. Ace a job interview
4. Send a thoughtful thank you note
5. Listen to a friend in need
6. Ask for help
7. Beautifully wrap a gift
8. Say "no" gracefully
9. Whip up a great dinner with the 5 items in the fridge
10. Sew a button
11. Apply lip gloss in the dark
12. Balance her checkbook
13. Create a budget
14. Find the best deal
15. Negotiate a salary and/or pay raise
16. Read a map
17. Hail a cab
18. Say something in French
19. Apologize when she's wrong
20. Dress for her body type
21. Change a flat
22. Spot a fake (Handbag, diamond, etc)
23. Know how to tip on a $25 dinner bill
24. Ask for forgiveness
25. Hold a baby

Have fun completing this list before you turn 30...if your already over 30 and haven't completed this list yet then you've got some work to do. lol.

Carlos

Music News :: Paramore

Hayley Talks Faith and God

Paramore has been one of my favorite new artists in my iPod this year. They are Christians living out their dream on the mainstream stage, but are still open about who they believe in and why. Dont believe me? I found this blog entry from Hayley on Paramore’s Live Journal. She wrote about the book “The Shack” which she just finished reading. I have yet to read this book, but after her review I just might.

“Wow. I just finished a book that might have changed me.

We had a lay over in Dallas a couple days ago on our way to Brazil… (yeah, I dunno why we had to fly back to the states to get here, either!) and I decided to make a quick run to Starbucks. While I was waiting on my Pumpkin Spice Latte to descend from the heavens, I walked around the little book shop that was connected to Starbucks. My ipod was dead and i knew i would be pulling my hair out on a 10 hour flight if i had nothing to do. I saw this book I’d been wanting to read called The Shack. Some of my friends have read it and said it ruled… these are good people with fairly good taste most of the time, so I decided to trust ‘em and I bought the book. If the flight would have been an hour or so longer and I hadn’t fallen asleep for most of it, I woulda finished that book before I walked off the plane. It was so good. I might even say life changing, but I haven’t really lived THAT much so I’ll have to tell you later if it really changed my whole life.

Before I go saying you should all buy it and read it… I should say that it is a book having much to do with Jesus Christ. I know that might not be appealing to everyone here but before you go writing it off I wanna explain a little more. The Shack is not what you’d expect of Christian literature. I don’t think it should even be in that category. I am certainly a Christian. However, I am not one that waves the banner of religion or even feels the need to go around telling everyone what I believe even if it is just because I’m proud or excited. It is not a religious book… and if you are going to get into it be prepared to learn NOTHING of religion.

For me, this book has opened up a new way to look at my relationship with God. My faith has never had much of anything to do with any institution but it has always been about relationship. So when I really started getting into this book and realized what I was reading… I was so encouraged. I recommend it to anyone who does believe in Jesus and I definitely recommend it to people who put their faith in something or someone else. Hell, you might not believe in anything at all and I would still recommend it to you. Because it’s filled with really beautiful pictures of love and grace and EVERYONE can use that.

I want to share a part of the book with you guys that really got to me. It might not have the same affect on you but… well, here it is:

“So why create the poisonous plants at all?” Mack queried, handing back the twig.(Sarayu answers) “Your question presumes that poison is bad; that such creations have no purpose. Many of these so-called bad plants, like this one, contain incredible properties for healing or are necessary for some of the most magnificent wonders when combined with something else. Humans have a great capacity for declaring something good or evil, without truly knowing.”
Well, I’m off. Hope everyone’s doing well! See you guys tomorrow.

Love, haley… hallie… hailey… haylee… hayley”

Be Blessed today,

Carlos

Election

God Remains

Two days since America chose President-Elect Barack Obama as our next Commander and Chief many people are still feeling a sense of uneasiness or worry. I've had emails ranging from the simple to the outrageous. Ones have literally called Barack Obama the "Anti-Christ" because of his sudden rise to power, global influence, Muslim ties and radical view points.

Folks, lets calm down a little. Last I checked, God is still God and He, not Barack Obama, reigns supreme. Barack Obama may be our 44th elected President, but I don't put my trust in him and more than I did President Bush. My trust sits firmly in the palms of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Barack Obama ran a campaign on Change and Hope. I prefer a campaign on Forever and Love. God is never changing, always the same today, yesterday and tomorrow and His Love is forever for you. Unending. Undying. Unstoppable. My hope and trust sits with the one who will never leave us nor forsake us. Place your trust there as well.

I got a really great email yesterday that read: Wednesday the sun came up and I was happy. It is still morning in America. The candidate I voted for did not win, but I got to vote in a free and fair election. Power will be passed peacefully and the Constitution is intact.We should never take that for granted.The United States of America is still a marvelous place to live. People suffering in the Sudan would trade our worst day, economically speaking, for their best. Citizens in more prosperous China do not have the chance to throw the rascals out.The sun is not setting on the American experiment. It is still rising, because there is still work to be done expanding the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to all citizens. It is glorious that an African-American has been elected President of the United States. Slavery was the original sin of the Republic and racism remains the bitter experience of too many Americans. The election of Barack Obama will not end racism in the United States, but it is a positive, symbolic step forward.Each one of these steps brings us further to Dr. King’s dream of a society where men and women are judged on the content of their character and not on race.President-elect Obama will soon be my head of state. I will pray for him daily and for his success. He is my president and it is my duty to do so. Besides, 2012 is not so far away…

Take that as you will. God is with you. And for those who think Obama is the Anti-Christ. Why worry? If he is, God is coming really soon! Amen, Hallelujah! So live like he was coming in the next five minutes and get ready for a party in Heaven!

Carlos

This Will Make You Laugh

Cover Tune Grab Bag - MercyMe

You gotta love the fact that the guys from Mercy Me know how to cut loose a little bit. They started this thing called "Cover Tune Grab Bag" where they cover some of your favorite songs. I think you can even request them to sing a song for you! Here's one I think you might like. Enjoy!



Carlos

Crappy Day

God is Good

Today has been kind of a crappy day. For no reason, I've had this dark cloud hanging over me this morning. I've been short with people, I feel testy and I just have this hurt on my heart that no amount of prayer has been able to fix. It really bugs me because a part of my job is being cheerful and happy and joyful on air to brighten people's day and I really hate being fake. But this morning I faked it.

After the morning show, through our Monday morning staff meeting, I just couldn't shake it off my shoulders. So I sit down to check some emails and see what my day is going hold when I see two emails from listeners of the morning show. God is so Good.

The first, says: I’ve been meaning to email you for over a month now. In Sept, you did a morning devotional on the Armor of God. You didn’t just read the verse, but you read the whole portion of Scripture and encouraged the listener to put on the Whole Armor of God! I wanted to let you know that I really appreciated the truths you shared during that devotional. Our weapons are definitely only effective if they are the spiritual ones! Too often, some of the devotions seem dry or rote, but I appreciate the way you make them come alive. I actually don’t get to hear the morning ones very often, so that particular day was definitely a treat! Thanks again!

The second, says: "Carlos you and Abby brighten my day sooo much. Thank you for being open about your faith and letting God touch me through your ministry."

I think I was in one of those ruts of doubt in myself and my abilities as a good communicator. I was feeling like the morning show wasn't very good, like I didn't say the right things, like I was putting myself up on a pedestal or my focus wasn't on the ministry...blah blah blah. All morning I just felt depressed. But God is soooooooooo good because he uses us to minister to each other. Two kind words about the morning show is all it took to help me to start to feel better. How often could we do the same for someone else just by letting them know they are appreciated?

Husbands remind your wives why you love them. Wives tell your husbands how special they are to you. Parents talk to your kids and let them know they are loved. Let's spread a little of God's love around to people. This is a hurting world that needs a dose of the Love of God.

Thanks to those two emailers, your emails truly blessed me this morning. And many, many thanks to all of you who listen to the Big Big House Morning Show.

Carlos

Are You Bitter?

Bitterness

Oh man, church was good this weekend! My pastor is on this "Hostage" series, talking about things in our life that can hold us hostage and keep us from living to the complete potential that God has for us. Last week was on finances. This week....BITTERNESS! LOL. Yeah, I know...laugh. I did at first. Then he laid it all out there and my jaw hit the floor. I must say, this was once of the most thought provoking sermons I've ever heard. I wish I could put everything down for you here, but here are some of the highlights.

Verse: Hebrews 12:14-15 "Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many."

As he was giving his sermon Saturday night, I thought about a situation where I think I may still be bitter towards someone. Sadly, I don't have to think I may still be bitter...I know I am. I was hurt and I have not truly gotten over it. I haven't truly forgiven that person in the way God would want me to forgive them. I feel like I'm justified to feel the way I do. Like they deserve whatever bad thing happens to them because of the hurt they caused me. Bitterness. Like a rag weed in my heart I never noticed before.

In my head I envisioned my life like a yard. Sin...Bitterness...being like a weed. You can easily spot it as it grows up above your beautiful lawn, tarnishing they view. So I drive my lawn mower over it by asking God's forgiveness for my bitter feelings. Then a few weeks later...BOOM! The weed is back. Simply mowing over the weed isn't enough. I've got to dig deep and yank that thing out by the roots to really remove it.

HOW? Good questions...glad you asked.

Verse: Ephesians 3:18-20 "And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."

Understand how God loves you. Let the power of His love work in you. And the key. Forgive as you have been forgiven. I love the verse in Ephesians that says "...forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" My pastor talked about how if you made a list of all the things that you have done against God. All the sins you've committed and laid them to pad and pen you would really see just what God meant by forgive like He does. Think about your laundry list. How many times have you sinned against God and he forgave you?

I know. My list is pretty long too. But if God asks us to forgive as He does, Bitterness should hold us hostage no more. Who are you bitter towards? What are you bitter about? Let God show you and let His love lead you to forgive. God Bless.

Carlos

Dear Abby

Through the eyes of God

This morning was our "Dear Abby" segment on the morning show and we got an email from a young girl who had just attended her homecoming dance. The gist of the email was that she went with her date to the dance and upon arriving, he ditched her. She did say that she ended up hanging out with some friends and had an OK time, but you could tell by reading the email that she was very hurt by what took place.

Being ditched at the dance is not what every teenage girl going to homecoming dreams of. That is called "worst case scenario" and ranks up there with going to the dentist to get a tooth pulled and being kicked in the groin (from a guys perspective at least). It's just not something you want to have happen.

First, I want to tell that girl and any woman who's been in similar situations not to take that to heart. Maybe he was just embarrassed to be at a dance with a girl. (Kind of giving the young man an out here I know, but I'll give him some benefit of the doubt) Maybe he freaked and reacted that way. I know, I know, maybe he was just a mean guy and did it for whatever reason. Just know this. Through God's eyes you are a princess and he loves you more than any earthly man ever could. Our Heavenly Father loves you, cares for you and right now he hurts with you. Know that God is in control and He's holding you in His loving arms and you shouldn't let this one situation keep you from holding your self-esteem high and still feel good about yourself.

I love the verse from Jeremiah 31:3 where it says, "And from far away the Lord appeared to his people and said, "I love you people with a love that will last forever. That is why I have continued showing you kindness"

A love that will last forever! Wow. God is Awesome. Only He can promise you that. No man, and trust me when I say, no matter how hard that man may try can truly promise you such a thing. Only God. Only He can love you like that.

So next year, go to homecoming with a group of friends or just take a good friend instead of a "date" and you'll have a great time. Besides you'll have plenty of time for bad dates later in life.

God is Love...and He loves you.

Carlos

My Rayhawk

GO RAYS!

Ok, I am a man of my word and I did say that if the Tampa Bay Rays made the World Series I would get a "Rayhawk". Well the Rays held up their end of the bargain so I held up mine. Here are some photos of the work in Progress:

Abby and I Pre-Cut


In Progress


The Final Product


My Rayhawk is ready for the World Series! GO RAYS!

Carlos

Birthday Bashed

What's the deal with getting older?

Today, I had an issue come up with age. Now I won't say who or how or when or where and all names have been changed to protect the innocent, but I still need to get this out there. What's the deal with age?

Now I will start by saying that I'm not much of a birthday person. I love my life just the way it is now. I'm 27 working on 28 and not so happy about getting to 30. But when I get to 30 I'll cross that milestone and live with it. I'm fairly sure that I'm not going to be Mr. Mid-Life Crisis Guy and go off and buy a Porche 911 to relive some youthful desire. That being said here's my deal.

A friend of mine is having a birthday. He's a playful guy, always joking around, you know, your typical "fun person" to be around. He's approaching a bigger milestone than I. The Big Five-Oh (50), but he's not there yet. It's not his 50th birthday this year. So in a joking manner I say, "Happy 50th Birthday Jim, how's that old age treating you?" Again, it was in a very joking manner and I said even said a few minutes later that I was kidding, I said, "Ah Jim, I'm just messing with you, you know I love you bro."

Jim was not fine. Jim didn't care for my comment one bit. Jim was really hurt by my comments. Since, the birthday incident I have apologized for what I said and have told him that I would never knowingly hurt him. But as of this blog he's still not talking to me.

Maybe it's because I'm 27. Maybe I just don't get what working on 50 feels like. But to go off the deep end on a comment so small and meant in a joking manner caught me way off guard. I read a another blog recently and it had this statement: "May this be our epitaph, that we were faithful to the Lord and His Word, as we get older until the very end of our life on earth. It is better to wear out than rust out in the Lord's service. Christians should not detest getting older. As we progress through the Lord's school of discipleship, it brings us closer to graduating to that heavenly shore where there are delights with our Lord forever more."

I'm truly sorry for hurting Jim. I never wanted to and I hope he believed my apology. Blame my youthful ignorance if you must blame something. I feel really bad and I hope that Jim understands I never wanted to hurt someone I call a friend. Sometimes I have to learn things in life the hard way and I'll just chalk this one up under that life lesson plan section. But a verse I'll keep close to my heart when I reach Jim's age is this: "The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness" (Proverbs 16:31). I think I'd look pretty cool with a crown and some silver hair. Kind of like in the flash back scene during "Return of the King" in the The Lord of The Rings Trilogy when you see King Aragorn all silver haired and kingly. Yeah. I'll take that.


Carlos

The Slap

My Old Youth Pastor

Wow. Yeah. Being that this is Pastor Appreciation Month I had to tell the story about my old youth pastor Justin.

I think when I was in the youth group it may have been his first time ever pastoring anybody. I'm not sure. I may have to double check that. Either way, on with my story. One morning right before the youth were meeting he pulls me aside. Now I had just been flirting with a pretty girl in my youth group and I thought I was going to get some pastorly advice on how a good Christian guy treats a good Christian girl. What I got was (at the time mind you) the coolest thing you could give a 13 year-old class clown type kid who loves to get attention. Justin, in all his great wisdom pulls me aside and tells me, "Carlos, I need you to slap me." I remember thinking no way, this is a joke. So I asked, "Slap you. You want me to....slap....you?" His response. "Yeah, across the face." So I said what any 13 year old kid with the chance to slap his youth Pastor would say. "How hard?".

Next, he laid out this elaborate plan on how he would try to get the class to calm down and he would ask me to sit, I would refuse, then would come "the slap" and out the room I would go. All this was to illustrate some grand teaching he had created for us. All I knew was, I was going to slap my youth pastor.

So the time came, he tried to calm the class down, I played my part and the the moment came. SLAP! I remember the feeling of dread wash over me. That, "oh my goodness I just slapped Justin" feeling. So the turning and leaving the room part was very easy. The problem was that he said to me, "Now Carlos, don't hit me to hard" and I really didn't mean to. I really didn't. I had and still do have a lot of respect for Justin. He's a great guy and a pastor and we all loved him as our youth leader so there was no, "Oh yeah, I'm going to knock him out" or anything. I just got a little to excited and put a little to much into it.

Either way, he taught his lesson with a red mark across his cheek and I still laugh to this day about it. For the life of me though I can't remember what in the world he was trying to teach me that day. I think it was to turn the other cheek or patience or something. I don't know. But I do know this. I thank each and every pastor I have ever had in my life. Some played very big roles on who I am today, like one of my Youth Pastor's Matthew. He introduced me to the art of being a DJ. A choice that brought me to where I am today. To other pastors who have brought God's word to me in the many churches I have been to. Thank you to all the Pastors of the Bay Area for your hard work, dedication and love for the body of Christ.

And thank you Pastor Justin for your creativity. Without it, I would not have this story to write today.

Carlos

My New Addiction

iTouched it and now I cant stop!

Somebody help me. This stupid little device is slowly taking over my life. If the iLunch and iToilet ever come out I may never leave my house again.

It all began just a few days ago when my father-in-law bought me an iPod Touch to replace my iPod Nano that exploded. (By exploded I literally mean, BOOM! Now it's in two pieces all thanks to the battery over heating.) Fedex drops by with my little cardboard box containing my new iPandora's Box, a.k.a. the iPod Touch. So I sign for it and off goes Mr. Fedex Man, I lay the box down on the kitchen table and immediately begin searching for something to open the box with. It was eerily familiar to the feeling you get when you purchase a HOT and FRESH box of Krispy Creme Donuts. There is no waiting to get home for those babies. Two seconds after you shut your car door your left hand is tearing at the box and your right is reaching for the donut.

Anyway, I find a knife, open the box, pull out the iTouch and off I go to my CPU for the set up. That was quick and easy and next thing I know I'm on the iTunes site searching for cool things to put on my iTouch. Dear Lord why did you give us such creativity I ask myself. I should asked, Dear Lord why do people have nothing better to do!

I've already placed on my iTouch such neccessary applications like:

- The Lightsaber
- A Coin Flip
- A Zippo Lighter (I honestly can't wait for a concer to use it!)
- Bubbles (It just make little bubbles that pop. I know....)
- A Flash Light
- A Ruler
- iBowl
- iGolf
- Sudoku (Which I don't even really like to play much anymore!)
- iTic Tac Toe
- and many more apps that I may never use!

Worst of all, I spend hours searching for more useless apps just to show someone what my iTouch can do or just to kill a few moments of my day! I may need to talk to someone about this soon. Pray for me. Because now I've seen my wife in front of the iTunes searching for more apps. This could be trouble....

Carlos

I'm Back to the Blog!

Post Shareathon 2008

Going into Shareathon can be a really crazy time here at Spirit FM and I didn't get to do ONE blog! But I'm back and ready to pen a few blogs. (Though no actual penning will take place, more typing really)

First, THANK YOU! If you prayed for us, if you made a faith promise, if you thought about us, even if you just tuned us in for 2 min during Shareathon...THANKS!

Trust me, asking for financial support is NOT fun. But we are a listener supported radio ministry and we rely on people just like you to give a faith promise to keep us on the air. So again, a very heartfelt thank you!

Speaking on Trust, that is something God has been teaching me lately. Or at least it feels like it. Since taking over the morning show I have been very, very, very worried about this years Shareathon. Ratings are one thing. (And ours have been very good) Shareathon is another.

If a show is doing well, usually it will be supported well. The show Abby and I do is very different from any other Christian morning show or any Spirit FM has had before. Abby and I really try to be real people, who we really are. The people you meet out at an event or hear on your radio are the same people our good friends know and love. There are no "Radio Versions" of Carlos and Abby, we are who we are and that's it. We'll talk about things we find funny, things in the news, things we see out and on TV or whatever we find topical. So going into Shareathon I was wondering, "Would people love the show and see our hearts and really buy into what we want to do in the mornings". I prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed because I didn't want to fail. I didn't want to fail God, who gave me this amazing opportunity, fail Spirit FM for entrusting me with the most important time slot of the day or fail myself, fail my family, fail my friends, fail, fail, fail, fail just kept pounding on my heart...Then....like an atom bomb...BOOOM! I got this...

(And God should have said, HEY YOU! DUMMY! STOP YOUR WORRY AND LISTEN UP! YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS GOING TO BLOW YOUR MIND!)

Instead, like a still small voice I got: Prov. 3:5-6 "Trust the Lord with all your heart and don't depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do and He will give you success.

I love that verse. I use it all the time. But just then, it's like a giant fog around the verse lifted and I really understood what God was saying to me. Put me first and trust me. It's no accident you are where you are. Walk by faith and I'll take care of the rest.

Shareathon went very well for the Big Big House Morning Show and all of Spirit FM for that matter. And I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that Spirit FM will be taken care of because God is faithful and His word is true.

Besides, I heard once that worry only brings grey hair. I'm not ready for much grey hair. God is in control and I hope you enjoy our little morning show. The Big Big House Morning Show, brought to you worry free all thanks to our Heavenly Father.

Carlos

Hands and Feet

Needs Help!

The Hands and Feet Project , a 501c3 non-profit organization, is a children's village in Jacmel, Haiti that was started by the band Audio Adrenaline in 2004. Their mission is to care for orphans and to use pop culture to introduce the 1st world to the orphans of the world. The land was purchased in late 2004, and construction began in early 2005. Their first little girl arrived in the spring of 2005, and we now care for 34 children ranging in age from 2 months - 9 years old.

Hurricane Gustav has hit the island hard and caused a great deal of damage to The Hands and Feet Project village. If you would like to help please visit their website: http://www.handsandfeetproject.org/ or click on the widget below. Thanks and God Bless YOU!



Carlos

Building 429

A Good Group of Guys

These guys are just some awesome men of God and we had a great time with Building 429 when they stopped by our studios. Be on the lookout for their new album Building 429 which hits store shelves Oct. 21st. They will also be heading out on tour with Addison Road and After Edmund for the "Truth Hope and Love Tour" starting Oct. 1st.

For more info check out: http://www.building429.com/

Carlos

Men are Dumb

Competitiveness

Why must most men compete at everything? Why do we feel the need to be better than the next man? I'll be the first to admit it. "Hello, my name is Carlos and I am addicted to competition".

Let's go back a few hours (Irritating Sounds of a Time Machine culminating with a Keanu Reeves type "Whoa").

OK, welcome to Monday, August 25th. The time. 4:00pm EST. The place. Bally's Gym. (Let's do this in 3rd person just for fun...lol)

Carlos enters the gym, confidence peaking with the anticipation of a good workout is quickly shot down when he walks over to a bench press machine used by a woman half his size lifting more than he could dream. Undaunted he quickly switches routines to his trusty plan B. The back workout routine. Carlos pulls up next to a lateral pull down machine and selects his weight. 115 pounds. He eyes the machine, drops his towel and goes to work. The sounds of some 80's one hit wonder bands fills the gym as Carlos is wrapping up his second set and is interrupted by a tap on his shoulder.

"Cut in while your using a machine guy" asks Carlos if he can work-in. Always trying to be an accommodating gym goer Carlos says, "Yeah sure, do you want me to drop the weight?" As if stunned by Carlos' statement "Mr Cut-In" says, "Nah man, if anything I need to up that weight". With nothing left to say, Carlos says, "Have fun", all the while thinking to himself, "you big dope, you're way skinnier than I am and twice my age, I just hope you don't rip your arm out of socket".

"Mr. Cut-In" takes the weight up to 130 or so pounds and rubs out a set of 10, drops the stack and looks over at Carlos, with a face that says, "Yeah, beat that chump"; "OK then" thinks Carlos. He walks over, drops the stack one more notch to 135 and rubs out his own set of 10. "Mr Cut-In" not to be out done drops the stack one more notch and rubs out 8. Carlos drops the stack one more and barely knocks out 8, some might call it 7 and 3/4 but since this is my story we'll just say it was 8.

Carlos knows he can not go another notch and is just about to walk away when, "ARGH!!!" says "Mr Cut-In". He did something to himself thought Carlos. As he walks over Carlos asks "Mr Cut-In" if he's ok only to be told that he was fine and may have just aggravated an old sports injury. "Mr Cut-In" says he's fine and walks away to go do something else. Cardio thought Carlos or at the very least the sauna or jacuzzi.

(OK, that was fun but now back to me)

So who's fault is this? Mine or "Mr Cut-In" guy? I blame mankind's need for competition. Men proving who's better by acts of physical strength. I was fully involved in the need to prove I was bigger, better, stronger and so was he. He just needed to beat the younger version of himself. Something I think I will get caught into when I'm pushing 50. For me, this all boils down to me and "Mr. Cut-In" forgetting there is a loving God out there who no matter, who comes out stronger, or faster, or bigger, or badder, will loves us both the same. I wanted to win so that I was better than he was. Forgetting that in God's eyes we are equal. I should have loved him in Christ and just set back my weight, turn the other cheek in a sense and let him win. In the end it proved what? It could have been me who pulled something. Next time it might be....next time....I will use better judgement.

God Love You!

Carlos

Miley and the Jonas Bros

Showing Some Love

Yesterday was a big day for Jonas Brothers fan as their new project “A Little Bit Longer” hit store shelves and became available for download. Last month Miley Cyrus’ new project “Breakout” was released. Next month these two major teen stars will be sharing the same stage for a benefit concert in support of City of Hope.

This September the Disney Music Group artists will take the stage at Disney’s “Concert for Hope,” a benefit concert supporting cancer research and treatment programs at City of Hope.

City of Hope Pres./CEP Michael A. Friedman, M.D. said…We are honored and grateful for the generosity of Disney, Creative Artists Agency and the dedication of Miley Cyrus and The Jonas Brothers in supporting the lifesaving work of City Of Hope. This Concert for Hope demonstrates their commitment to improving the lives of patients with cancer and to helping create a future in which cancer is not only treatable, but curable and preventable.

Good news from the Miley Camp! It's nice to get a really positive story and great to see her showing God's love to those less fortunate. She doesn't have to do this show, but she is making the time and using her status as a celeb to help those less fortunate. Reminds me of this passage:

Matthew 25:37-40

"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?' And the king will answer them, 'Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.' "

God is Love and God is Good. Be Blessed!

Carlos

Gossip

Gossip Free

This morning we talked about a Pastor who is taking a big stand on what many people view as a small issue. Here is the story from http://www.cbn.com/.

A Michigan pastor is challenging his congregation and Christians across the country not to gossip for at least eight days. The campaign is called, "Gossip Free" and is set to begin on Friday, Aug 8.

Gossip is a timeless problem that is warned about in the Bible, fills the pages of countless magazines and even glamorized on television shows like "Gossip Girl."

Pastor Kevin Hester of The Sancutary Baptist Church in Coloma, Mich. believes there is nothing attractive about gossip. "Gossip is very devastating and the Bible says we shouldn't do it, in fact God mentions it right next to murder in the scripture," Hester explained.

Three years ago the rumor mill turned personal for Hester. He became a victim of malicious gossip and the experience changed his life. Now he is launching a campaign against it.
Hester and his church have distributed some 2,000 "Gossip Free" bracelets along with his "Gossip Free" booklet.

"We're challenging people to go eight days, from speaking gossip and from listening to it," he said.
While many believe that gossip is just harmful chatter, Hester begs to differ. He commented, "It can be like cancer. If you don't take care of it early, it just grows and grows until ultimate destruction occurs."

Response to Hester's "Gossip Free"challenge has been tremendous and has attracted national media attention, and scores of emails from people across the country.

"Every few hours I check my cell phone and I'll read emails and one came across how a lady who's been a chronic gossipper for 40 years was just so encouraged by the movement that we're doing right now that it's changing her life," Hester said.

Residents of Coloma know going gossip free is not going to be easy.

Jennifer Moore said, "It's hard to keep from it completely, but this reminds me everyday."
Moore's 14-year-old son, Joey sees gossip as a sin.

"I see gossip as a sin, I see it as a bad thing too, but God forgives sins and if you're ready to be forgiven for them I think the first step would be try going gossip free," he said.

Some local businesses are also embracing the challenge to rid their workplaces of toxic talk.

Rebekah Trosper is a member of Hester's church and a department manger at the Benton Harbor Walmart. She introduced the "Gossip Free" challenge to her co-workers.

"We have associates trying to go against each other trying to see who's going to gossip first," she said. "They are taking it seriously. It's already reduced the gossip in the store."

Gossip may seem like a small issue to some, however God may have a different view. I appreciate all your takes and view points and look forward to hearing more again soon.

Carlos

Nevertheless

Many Thanks to Nevertheless

The Big Big Morningshow had a huge surprise this morning when the Christian rock band Nevertheless camped outside our studios! Yes, literally camped out. Tents, sleeping bags, lantern, the works. It was a very cool surprise and they made us breakfast so no complaints from me.

I hope you enjoyed them playing for us two new songs of the new album "In The Making" dropping to stores nationwide September 16th. For more info on Nevertheless check out: www.myspace.com/nevertheless.

ALSO!

Do not forget tonight Third Day will take the stage of the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. My TiVo is set since that is a little past my bed time. Waking up at 4:00am every day will put you to sleep around 9:30pm.

Anyway, as always thanks for listening and may the Lord Bless YOU!

Carlos

Music News :: Brandon Heath

Brandon Heath Sets Digital Sales Records

Christian music’s New Artist of the Year Brandon Heath debuts his digital single “Give Me Your Eyes” at the top of the Christian music digital charts, reaching No. 1 on iTunes and Amazon.com. With nearly 6,000 downloads of the song, Heath has achieved the highest first-week sales for a Christian track in 2008, surpassing previous leaders Chris Tomlin’s “Jesus Messiah” and Third Day’s megahit “Call My Name.”

On Aug. 19, Heath will release his anticipated sophomore album What If We which features the week’s top-downloaded song, “Give Me Your Eyes”.

Teaming up again with producer Dan Muckala, Heath’s What If We follows up his breakthrough debut project, Don’t Get Comfortable, which delivered the No. 1 smash-hit, and Song of the Year nominee, “I’m Not Who I Was,” granting Heath his first nomination for Songwriter of the Year, and a win in the New Artist of the Year category at the GMA Dove Awards in April.

Brandon Heath quickly became a fixture at Christian radio with the release of his debut project. His mega-hit “I’m Not Who I Was” raced to No. 1 and ended 2007 as one of the year’s most played radio singles. Heath has been a respected writer in the Nashville music community for years, collaborating with well-known artists like Bebo Norman, Matt Wertz and Dave Barnes, to name a few. The Nashville native first began writing at age 13 and credits the town’s legendary hotspot for songwriters, the Bluebird Café, as the place he first experienced music that moved him. Heath currently resides in Houston, Texas, and is a worship leader at The Loft church located in The Woodlands, just north of Houston.

Check out a LIVE version of "Give Me Your Eyes"


Carlos

Krystal Meyers

“Make Some Noise”

Krystal Meyer's new project “Make Some Noise” will drop Sept. 9th!

This is the now 19 year olds third studio album and the 10-track project, was entirely written or co-written by Meyers. It was recorded in Brentwood, Tenn. at Dutchland Studio, and was produced by Doubledutch (Mat Kearny, Toby Mac).

Krystals’ brand-new music video, “Make Some Noise,” is being featured on Yahoo Music right now. It was filmed in late April, in her hometown of Nashville, Tenn. Check it out…




Krystal is back and all grown up. Sounding very different from her punk rock past and is looking to leave a new mark in the Christian music industry.

Carlos

Grocery Games

What Just Happened?

That was the only thing I could say to myself tonight after my visit to the grocery store. What? How? Where did I go wrong? Those questions kept coming, but the answers did not.

I wanted to grab a quick bite to eat after my workout tonight. Didn't really feel like whipping anything up in the kitchen so I decided to hit up Publix. For me, it's the best place to grab a quickie meal and still stick to the healthy eating kick that I've been on the past month. Besides, it's harder to cheat when you're not in the drive-thru of your favorite In and Out with calorie packed and fat drenched combos of love staring you down, tempting you with their juicy goodness. So I run in, grab a health conscience meal and head to my favorite line, the Express Line, 10 Items or Less.

So I'm in line, waiting my turn, when a there's a tap, tap, tap on my shoulder. Who's behind me? A "sweet" little old lady who's maybe in her mid 80's, no taller than 5'1'', silver haired and did I mention she had that patented sweet little old grandma face working for her. She asks me if I didn't mind letting her go ahead of me. Quickly, I scan her, no cart, no kids, no accomplice, 1 loaf of bread, no problem, so I say "Of course, go right ahead". She thanks me and then mentions how she is in a rush to get home and watch her favorite TV show. Feeling conversational I was just as I was about to ask her what that show was, when she yells like a banshee, "Come on Marv, move your sorry self, this nice young man is letting us through!". No lie, this really happened, today 7:00ish at Publix. Marv by the way, has a cart, with over 10 items.

At this point reference the Top line of this post. That question kept running through my head. How did this sweet little old lady pull a fast one on me like that. All I had was 1 item. She on the other hand had 17. I know this because I counted them. Twice. Why? How? And what show was that important? I'll never know. I wondered how Jesus would react in that scenario. First thought, thunderbolts and lightning and the opening up of an abyss! Second and most prevailing thought, love. Let it go. Pray for her. Move on. She knows what she did was wrong, why did I feel the need to tell her so. So I did just that. I bit my tongue, blessed her instead, and let the Lord deal with her later. Now looking back, I find it pretty funny. I wrote this in hopes that you may have had similar situations and this would make you laugh as well. Was I taken advantage of...maybe. That time. But doing things God's way will pay off in this life or in eternity. But it always pays off.

Be blessed.

Carlos

Anger Management

I'm Angry

As I write this, I’m getting over being angry. The kind of angry that makes you want to throw something just to see it break. Thankfully I didn't let it out like that, some prayer and some alone time worked just fine. Why I'm angry is not important, what is important is how we deal with anger.

Jesus calls us to forgive and to love, but as a frail human, it’s often hard for me to look past my anger and do that:

Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Matthew 18:21-22 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

Ok, so I've got to forgive in love and forget in my mind. But my anger isn't ready to go away just yet, it sitting there, festering. But I’m trying to get some perspective. To have some idea as to how to move past this. Nobody was injured, no property was damaged. Just pride. So my sin right now, is that I’m letting my pride get in my way of forgiving and moving on - no wonder it’s a sin.

I once saw a sign that read: It’s not bad for you because it’s a sin. It’s a sin because it’s bad for you.

That makes total sense to me right now. I think it’s time to forgive and move on, just as God commands us. More importantly, it’s time for me to ask for forgiveness for my own actions and to look past the perceived damage to my pride. Walking around angry is hard and life is hard enough without carrying that extra weight.

Carlos

Third Day

On Jay Leno!

How great is this! THIRD DAY TO PERFORM ON THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO JULY 29.

Having recently graced the cover of the June 7 edition of Billboard Magazine, Atlanta based rock band, Third Day, has been confirmed for a performance on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Tuesday, July 29, the street date of its highly anticipated tenth studio album Revelation. The Tonight Show with Jay Leno airs weeknights at 11:35/10:35 CT.

In addition, the band maintains its No. 1 position for the fifth consecutive week on the R&R Christian AC Monitored chart, the R&R Christian CHR and Christian Radio Weekly (CRW) AC charts this week. In addition, “Call My Name,” the first single from the band’s July 29 Revelation project, is nearing 25 million weekly impressions, according to the CRW radio-impressions chart. The single debuted at radio on April 4.

Following the release of Revelation, the band will hit the road for summer festival appearances and the highly anticipated Music Builds Tour with Switchfoot, Robert Randolph & the Family Band and Jars of Clay.

Jesus Is...Remixed

God Loves Techno

He must because this album is awesome. If your looking for some really good Christian House / Trance / Techno music this album has it all.

Passionate Euro-styled worship has been a core driving force for the explosive growth at the new Hillsong LONDON church. A group of talented and creative members of the church have taken 12 songs from the original Jesus Is worship project released in 2006 and remixed them from a pop and rock sound to electronic and ambient versions while maintaining the same lyrics and Biblical messages.

Mixing a sound from their Hillsong Australia heritage with the current European/London music scene, this Euro-Worship has a fresh and exciting, yet familiar sound. Hillsong London uses this music and technology to attract young people from all around London to their services which are held in the famous theater district..

This creative project is a perfect addition to any Hillsong music fan and any fan of electronic and ambient music.

It's good folks, really good.

Carlos

We Need Your Vote

Vote for Evan

After two days of fan balloting in the Monster 2008 All-Star Game Final Vote on MLB.com, Longoria continues to lead for the final spot on the American League All-Star team, maintaining a slight lead over Jermaine Dye of the White Sox, with Jason Giambi of the Yankees, Brian Roberts of the Orioles and Jose Guillen of the Royals close behind.

Vote Now!



It's been a magical year for the Rays, let's keep it going and vote in Evan Longoria to the American League All-Star Team!

Carlos

Get to Know...

Brooke Fraser

She may not be a household name in America (at least not yet), but New Zealander Brooke Fraser has thus far racked up four No. 1 radio hits and CD sales in excess of seven million. It’s a staggering resumé, indeed, for the faith-based relative newcomer (who can sometimes be heard leading worship with Hillsong United), especially considering those achievements were exclusively in mainstream settings. Even though her sophomore CD, Albertine (Wood & Bone), just released in the States May 27, the troubadour had no trouble selling out Chicago’s Lakeshore Theatre on the heels of recent appearances from actor extraordinaire Robin Williams and Savage Garden singer Darren Hayes.

Given her charming onstage banter, angelic vocals and even more alluring blend of introspective and spiritually tinged songwriting, it’s easy to see why she holds venue rank with the aforementioned. And by the end of an entrancing 70-minute set, Fraser no doubt left a major impression on listeners as a stunning singer, engaging acoustic guitarist, proficient pianist and even a casual percussionist (on an impromptu rendition of “Happy Birthday” to a band member). Outside of that celebratory comedy, early selections in her set included the gorgeous “Lifeline” (off her 2004 debut What To Do With Daylight) and the easygoing, yet eloquent new cut “Love, Where Is Your Fire?”

Switching from acoustic guitar to piano, Fraser addressed “Faithful,” drawing parallels to Sarah McLachlan, Nichole Nordeman or Chantal Kreviazuk wrapped around incredibly insightful lyrics that could be linked to an earthly or heavenly relationship, depending on one’s perspective. Even in the mainstream setting, the tunesmith wasn’t afraid to boldly pepper in her beliefs, such as on the jazzy “Hosea’s Wife” (inspired by the Old Testament tale of adultery and redemption) and the breathtaking acoustic ballad “Albertine” (dedicated to a Rwandan orphan, while encouraging listeners to reach out with the line “faith without deeds is dead”). Still, Fraser had no trouble relating to an audience of all associations, which, coupled with her abundant talents, are sure to find her accolades increasing with every sophisticated tour stop along the way.

Here is her video to the new song on Spirit FM "Shadowfeet"


For more info on Brooke check out: http://www.brookefraser.com/

Carlos

Hey Sweaty Gym Guy

Rule #1 When Going to The Gym. Bring a towel!!! I'm talking to you "Mr. Sweaty No Towel Guy"

Let's get something straight here. At the gym you are going to sweat. Most of us dudes will sweat through a shirt. Meaning you will leave residue or sweat stains or pools of sweat at machines during your time at the gym. Grab the towel on the way out the door and wipe up after your done using whatever machine suits your fancy.

Today I was working out at the gym and I was having one of those really good workouts. You know the ones where you are really feeling a burn, your muscles are really working and your really into it. That was today for me. Well I was finishing up on the 3rd of 4 machines that I use for my upper body, I was walking towards the next machine and that's when it happened.

Who do I see getting up from my next machine, the one guy at the gym I always try to avoid at all costs. Not only is it "Mr. Sweaty No Towel Guy", but he must have been having a really good work just like I was because he could have filled a bucket if he were to ring at that shirt he was wearing.

Immediately a sense of dread washed over me. I felt like my routine was over, I thought about skipping that machine, maybe even the rest of my workout, but I walked over just to check out the damage. Gross, does not begin to explain the scene that lay before my eyes. I can handle a streak or two or ten. I can handle drips even in the dozens. This was more. This was a waste land of pools of sweat and streaks. Gross my friends, is an understatement. As I stood there, staring at the nightmare that was, God must have been smiling at me saying, "My boy, I've got your back". Just as I was about to walk away a staff member cleaning off machines just happened to be near by. I waved him over, he should have roped off the machine with crime scene tape and had the thing declared a bio-hazard but he just said, "no problemo" as if he's seen this before. Sprayed it with what I hoped was some kind of nuclear form of clorox and wiped it off. Satisfied, I finished my workout and went home.

Please, please, please people....if your a sweaty person and your going to work out. Do us all the courtesy and bring a towel and wipe of the machines! No one likes to use a machine with your residue left on it.

Peace and Love!

Carlos

Winking

Good or Evil?

I know, weird question to ask when talking about the wink, right? Well...maybe not. At least not according to my wife. Here's the thing. My wife can't stand the wink, especially when I do it. She feels it's sly or sneaky or misleading or whatever she feels, but I know she doesn't like it. So much so, she sent me a list of biblical verses talking about how it is never referred to in a positive light. Check these out:

Proverbs 6:12-13 (KJV) Neither let them wink with the eye that hate roe without a cause. A naughty person, a wicked man walketh with a froward mouth. He winketh with his eyes.

Proverbs 10:10 (KJV) He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow.

Job 15:12-13 (KJV) Why doth thine heart carry thee away? and what do thy eyes wink at, that thou thurnest thy spirit against God.

According to her, these are the reasons why we shouldn't wink at each other.

I don't get it. Yes maybe back then or in certain cultures, but when I wink at people, it's usually in a joking manner. Never to be flirtatious or mean or harmful. Then again, that is some fruit for thought. Enjoy.

Carlos

God and Golf

My Weekend Round

It's funny how life is some times. I'm not a very good golfer and over this weekend I was having a VERY GOOD ROUND. Everything I wanted to do was working, I was putting well, chipping well, I was on course for my best round ever. Sure enough the sky got dark, the heavens ripped open and out come a down pour. Game Over.

Now, I've got that golf bug. The I've got to get back out there a.s.a.p. bug. It's funny how easy it is to get back out and do something when life treats you well. You want to experience the same success as you did before so you try to go back out there again and again.

Failure, is a different thing. When I've failed or had a bad day on the golf course I almost dread the feeling of getting back out there and trying again. If I do and things don't start off well, I almost expect it to continue that way or God forbid get worse. What I realized this morning was that even in times of failure God's plan is still at work in my life. Sometimes it's through our failures that we learn our biggest lesson and life plans that God has for us.

If you look at some Bible characters you see that most of those who made history were men who failed at some point, and some of them drastically, but who refused to continue lying in the dust. Their very failure and repentance secured for them a more ample conception of the grace of God. They learned to know Him as the God of the second chance to His children who had failed Him—and third chance, too.

When you fall, or fail. GET UP! Fall again, GET UP! AGAIN! Keep getting up and don't let failure stop you from trying. Know that God is behind you and with Him you can do anything. GET UP!

Remember:

"The Lord sustains all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down” Psalm 145:14.

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord; and He delights in his way. When he falls, he shall not be hurled headlong; because the Lord is the One who holds his hand” Psalm 37:23-24

“For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again, but the wicked stumble in time of calamity” Proverbs 24:16

SO IF YOU FALL, GET UP!

Carlos

How Dirty Are We?

Amazingly Dirty

By no means am I "Go Green Guy" or even "Tree Hugger Guy" but I do believe in protecting our natural resources and our environment. We only have this one planet you know. This video I came across really puts into total perspective just how dirty we are. It's called "Reverse Graffiti" and I have never seen anything quite like it.



It really puts the whole GO GREEN thing into perspective. Our world or at least this part of San Fransisco is really really dirty and we should all do our part in trying to clean it up.

Carlos

Cry Out to God

A Good long run...

I like to run. By no means am I a distance or marathoner but I enjoy to get out there and bust out a few miles. Today I busted out 10. One the beach. In a long sleeve shirt.

Every now and again I'll get in a mood where I feel like I need to have it out with God a little bit. Not like Ephraim fighting an angel in the bible (Hosea 12) or even Lt. Dan yelling at God in Forest Gump. More like a heart to heart, where I lay out all of life's hurts and pitfalls in my life and beg (sometimes yell) for some answers.

Today was such a day...

I woke up in a funk this morning (if you could tell on the air I apologize) and when I got home I just felt like I needed to let out some of this pent up frustration and a good long run was what I thought I needed. About 4 miles into the run I realized that I was praying over my iPod music and I felt like I had some stuff I needed to get out. Thankfully I was out at Honeymoon Islands northern most point with nobody in sight and a huge gulf to yell at. So I prayed, LOUD, and let out everything I felt I needed to let out so God would hear me. It's not like he didn't already know, He's God, He knows everything, but letting it out of me felt good.

Nothing miraculous happened, the sea didn't part, an angel didn't appear, a bird did almost poop on me which for a moment I felt may have been God answering me. But just then, as I sat for a moment, in silence, and closed my eyes and listened to the waves crash, it was as if a boulder was taken off my shoulders. I felt a peace and love wash over me and it literally felt like just then a weight was taken off of me and thrown into the water. It immediately reminded me of Psalm 46 : 1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble".

I couldn't keep walking around holding onto this burden, only God could carry my load. God is our refuge and strength, why do we try to do everything on our own? A very present help in trouble, why do we not ask for it? God is there ready and waiting for you, just as he was for me today. I thank God for my run today, because the rest of my run felt like I was running on new legs and a lighter load. God is awesome. Just trust in Him and he'll show you the way.

Carlos

Get to know...

Francesca Battistelli

New Song: "I'm Letting Go"

New Fervent Records artist Francesca Battistelli is no stranger to the stage. Raised by parents immersed in the arts and Broadway, she developed a love of music, theatre, and performance at a young age. But instead of using these talents for applause and accolades, Francesca prefers to point people to something beyond herself--towards hope in Christ. Her soulful piano-pop sound resembles a blend of her music interests--jazz, rock, gospel and R&B woven beautifully together with themes of trust and risk-taking. In a noisy world filled with sounds and images, we cry out for an authentic voice--one who is not afraid to speak truth and purpose to a generation. In singer/songwriter Francesca Battistelli, we have found that voice. Her debut project releases on Fervent Records July 22, 2008.

Check her out on stage:



For more info on Francesca check out: http://www.myspace.com/francescabattistelli

Carlos

Baby Belly

BTP

Ladies, what is it about the baby belly? It seems like every time I see a pregnant woman, I see someone gravitate towards her belly and put their hands on it. Yesterday at Publix I witnessed just such an event. A woman in the produce section was looking for fruit and was looking very pregnant. Another woman took notice and immediately had to ask about the baby and put her hands on her belly. It's so funny to me how ladies just love the baby belly. (More so when it's not theirs, a good friend of my wife can attest to that) It's amazing, it never fails and it's real. It's like the sun rise, you just know that it's gonna happen. Why though?

We talked about the Belly Touching Phenomenon (or BTP for short) this morning and had some wide ranging ideas. Some thought it was due to people wanting to be a part of God's handiwork in the miracle of birth. I can see that. The miracle of birth is so beautiful. Messy, yes, painful, can be, but in the end when the baby is born, everything else just seems to fade away in the beauty of new life.

Others thought it just curiosity, not all of us will experience birth and some just haven't been blessed in that area yet. Curiosity must abound.

Some thought it was a girl thing, being a guy I totally agree there. The idea of a baby inside a human body growing, surviving, living off the "host" reminds me of the movie Alien. It just creeps me out the idea of something moving inside of me. Is it beautiful, yes, it is creepy, oh yeah.

Everyone could agree that just as sure as the sun will rise, a pregnant belly will be touch by someone you may or in some cases may NOT know. Either way, the gift of child birth is a gift from God and it truly is a beautiful thing.

Carlos

Top 3

Vacation

Many of us will be taking some form of family vacation over the summer. For some the beach or Universal Studios for others visiting family away or maybe another country. This morning we covered in a game of Family Feud the Top 3 Most Commonly Forgotten Items When Going on Vacation.

1. Toothpaste / Toothbrush
2. Cell Phone Charger
3. Underwear / Sleep Wear

I can vouch for #3. My wife and I honeymooned in New York City three years ago. I made sure I packed clothes for walking around town, for a nice dinner out, for sleeping and for every situation I could think of. What I forget was what I would wear under all those clothes. Needless to say, we made a quick trip to the store upon arrival in Manhattan.

ALSO!

Thanks to Chef Josue from the Rep Chef's he came by and hooked us up with some great Tampa Cubans!

Check out our Morning Show page for more info on how you can make them for your family!

Enjoy your weekend and we'll see you Monday!

Carlos

Pride vs Prejudice

My point of view...

Today on the show we spent a good portion talking about the uproar in regards to the possible placing of a very large Confederate flag near the junction of I-4 and I-75.

From my point of view, when I see the confederate flag I don't see southern pride or a positive southern history. I see a flag that represented those who were pro slavery. When I think of slavery, I think of all the grave injustices and cruelty done to African Americans. Whether or not my thought process on the flag is historically accurate, it is what pops into my head when I see that flag.

Now, I know that the Civil War was fought for much more than slavery. I know that some of those born and raised in the South, take a great deal of pride in that flag and those who died for it. As Americans we should have a great deal of pride. We should take pride in our heritage, in our country and in ourselves. Pride is OK. But my history classes in high school and college painted a very dark image of the flag in my head and when I see it, I don't see pride, I see prejudice.

My final thought is this. God calls us to love thy neighbor. A recurring theme on this mornings show. If my neighbor is hurt by my flying a flag that in their eyes represents hate, then I personally wouldn't fly it. The South didn't win the war. That flag is only recognized as a part of history. That is where I would leave it. In the history books. The Civil War was such a dark time for our nation anyway. It put families against each other, governments against each other and many lives where hurt on both sides. As one nation under God we should focus on being Christ to each other and lean on His love to guide us all.

Carlos