As usual I’ve got all kinds of things rolling around in my head so I’ll take a couple of minutes to share them with you.

1) It’s great to be back home after a week in North Dakota. It almost felt like spring when we got off the plane. Our time at Trinity Bible College in Ellendale was extremely rewarding. It is a privilege to share with developing leaders and maybe give them an insight or two that will help them along the way.  I spoke in two chapels and several classes.  The students were very kind and responsive. Spending time with our dear friends Keith and Marlys Elder was a special joy (he serves as the campus pastor and the Dean of Students). President Jack Strom and his team are doing a great job.

2) Dr. Joe Castleberry, the President of Northwest University, ministered to us this past weekend. His insights on the person and work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer were outstanding. There seems to be hunger in many at SLC for God to move in our lives in a deep and penetrating way. That hunger is not just for an emotional experience it is for something that is strong and life changing. I love Dr. Castleberry’s observation that the Holy Spirit fills us  “not to make us better than others but to make us a better version of ourselves”. I need to be a better me and it is comforting to know the Holy Spirit will do that work in my life.

3) Thanks for the cards and other expressions during this Pastor Appreciation month. All of us on staff at SLC feel your ongoing love and support. It is so great to be part of the “House of God” that is SLC.

4) A lesson from the UW/Arizona football game. The Huskies won it in the 4th quarter scoring 15 points in 18 seconds with a touchdown pass and an improbable interception and return for a touchdown. The truth to embrace is this: Never give up, a miracle may be just around the corner.

I want to live my best, believing God for his best.

Cal