Tribute

Our blog needs an update of some sort I realized and since I'm not very good at the "day in the life" or cute picture updates, I'm going to do a tribute. Earlier this week I happened to be driving in my car at 8 o'clock and so I turned on Adventures in Odyssey and had a listen. This morning while cleaning I put on some old favorites (songs that is) from Five Iron Frenzy. This got me thinking about these two staples of my growing up years and I realized that both of these unassuming media constructs have had lasting affects on my world view. Other than my parents, I can't think of any other person, group or event that has shaped my view of the world, of God and my values more than Odyssey and Five Iron. So...

here's to you Odyssey...

I listened to your stories every night for as long as I can remember until I was 18 years old. You taught me that if something seems to good to be true then examine it critically, because there's a good chance it is. You taught me to try being friends with everyone, whether they seem odd or are annoying; you also taught me to look past those exterior qualities and look for who the person really is. Finally, you taught me that old things are full of stories and those stories are full of wisdom. Cheers to you Odyssey!

here's to you 5Fe...

Your music was my first choice during high school. Though you may be known for songs like "Kingdom of the Dinosaurs," "Combat Chuck" and the pants songs, I remember sobbing to "On Distant Shores" as I felt a sample of how deep and unconditional God's love is for me. You inspired me toward reaching a lost world in "Where Zero meets 15." You showed me how God delights in even our most feable or misguided attempts to show love in "Dandelions." You taught me about the difference between Christ's love and man-made religion with songs like the "Old West" and "Beautiful America." You taught me about justice with songs like "The Day We Killed." You taught me that God always seeks me out whether I'm running away, standing still or coming to Him through "Everywhere I Go" and "On Distant Shores." You showed me how big God's mercy and grace are and how reckless with "Every New Day." And finally, you showed me that a deep connection with God through worship can occur simultaneously with laughter.

I hope you enjoyed my nostalgic look back. Check out some Adventures in Odyssey or some five iron if you're not busy.

Evan