It’s hard to believe one week ago most of us were just getting back into the swing of things after Thanksgiving. It’s pretty amazing to think of everything that’s happened in those seven short days: three Christmas services and parties, an amazing Leadership Community and baptisms just to cap it all off. I loved every bit of it.

I’m still trying to get my mind around all the thoughts this weekend’s Leadership Community has stirred up inside me.

But what I know tonight is that pictures like the one above are what we’re all about. Baptisms are such a significant time in the life of The Gathering – they remind us all that everything we do is aimed at advancing the power of the Gospel, a Gospel that still changes lives today.

After three straight nights of Christmas services, I’m definitely in the holiday spirit. There’s still part of me that feels like we’re rushing the season. Then I looked at the calendar and realized Christmas is only three weeks away. Don’t know why that took me so off guard. But it did. Can you believe it? Three weeks!

I know there’s a lot of miles to cover between now and then. Papers, finals and the like. But the light at the end of the tunnel is definitely getting closer. Hang in there. And keep knowing that God is for you, moving through these weeks with you and refining you every step of the way.

CNN is presenting a two hour special tomorrow night called “Scream Bloody Murder.” Among other things, it will be talking about the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. Can’t say that I know anything more about it than what’s on CNN’s site – click here for the story – but it might well be worth your time. It’s at least worth a little Tivo action (which is definitely my plan since I’ll be at UMD). Just wanted you to have the chance to check it out.

I love the graphic for our Christmas series. Can’t wait to see it on screens all over DC this week. Wanted to post it here in case you were looking for something to post to your Facebook, MySpace or blog.

There’s one phrase that’s tormented me my entire Christian life.

Quiet Time.

Not gonna lie, I hate it!! It feels like something parents force small children to do. You know, when you were four and too old for a “nap” so you just had to have some “quiet time.” I didn’t like it very much back then and my feelings haven’t changed much now. Yet, for years I’ve had to stand in front groups of college kids and tell them they need “quiet times.” I feel like hybrid of Mr. Rogers and a sleep therapist. All because I couldn’t think of a better way to describe finding time to pray and read your Bible.

Well, the creative logjam has been broken! No more will you hear “quiet time” out of me. From now on it’s “Time With God.” I like that a whole lot better. It can be loud or quiet as the mood dictates. And, yes, I would still suggest praying during your time with God – would seem rude not to talk with Him. Reading the Bible’s always going to be key. The components haven’t shifted. Just the name.

Daily time with God is essential. Go read John 15! But you don’t have to call it a quiet time. You aren’t a poorly behaved toddler who needs to go work out your attitude. You’re a full fledged adult now. But one with the amazing privilege of spending time every single day with the Creator of the entire universe.

So, go spend time with God.

I can’t believe it’s already December 1st. Hard to believe Christmas is only 24 days away! Even harder to believe I’m headed down to AU tonight for the first Christmas party of the season. Wow. Doesn’t seem possible.

Given the sudden onslaught of Christmas (which is a good thing, I know), I have a simple question for all of us today. What’s your favorite Christmas movie of all time?