Pastor David Maier - Forward in Hope

Ugly Ducklings (Don't Judge by Appearance)

We shouldn't judge by appearance.  We know that.  But in reality we often do.  Consequently, I believe, we often miss out on the beauty of seeing the ugly duckling now turned graceful swan.

As God's children we picture old faithful Samuel coming to anoint a new king in secret (for fear of Saul's reprisal) at Jesse's home in Bethlehem.  Samuel will eventually anoint David, but only after he has viewed the rest of Jesse's stable of sons, seen them rejected by God for that royal office, and learned God's particular method:  But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

God does not judge by external appearance.  Neither should we.

Carmel Marvel & Friends - Marvelous

This morning I've had the opportunity to meeting with a friend, a student home from college -- in this case The Rochester Institute of Technology.   I've met regularly at at coffee shop in Lansing -- Beaners --  with his father, to discuss the web, its use, and in particular blogging.

What I've Learned (NOT in order of importance)

A tall, skinny, Carmel Marvel (the name of the coffee drink) is just about a perfect drink.

Coffee shops provide an incredible and comfortable atmosphere to discuss just about everything and anything ... with just about anybody ... in a relaxed and very real way.

Taking time for friendship and new friends is crucial to life, and I believe, especially to the life of a child of God.

If a blog is a way of allowing people to know ... me, what's important to me, what's on my mind, more about Jesus, how Jesus influences my wolrd and life on a daily basis ... then I need to do this.

I can't be worried about msitakes in writing but recognize that this is meant to be an extension of who I am ... and I am not perfect.

Finally, I wonder if Jesus would have enjoyed and ordered a Latte ... or if He would just gone for strong and black.  I don't know ... but I'm glad He was present this morning and a part of our conversation.