Where two or more...

So, hopefully I'll tell you about my friends and some of my doings in this post. But first, I want to write about how God connected our paths.

The story goes, I showed up in the Sacramento a few months ago looking for a job. After a week (8 days) of soul/job searching I showed up at Peet's Coffee & Tea in Davis and got hired on the spot. That same day, I moved into a place in Davis as well. No breaking news there. Now the story gets interesting. So, from Texas my good friend Leah Thompson, who definitely has the gift of outgoingness and knows everyone, writes and tells me that she happens (by God I believe) to have a friend who lives in Davis named Sergio. Sergio invited me to the 20's group that he helps lead through FBC Davis on Wednesday nights. At the meeting, I enjoyed the fellowship, but determined that it would be my last time going because it just wasn't my style. But, before I could get out the door, I was tackled by the person in charge of the weekly email list. After a sugar-coated attempt to dart out the door and run for my life, I reluctantly gave them my email. So, a day later I got my first email from the "Roaring 20's Roledex" explaining that they found someone from The Mission, my church, who used to go to their group. Through that contact I found that there was a very small group of believers living in Davis attending The Mission. I started carpooling with them and found that they met Wednesday nights to pray and just be together. Within that, I found friendship and like-hearted people. And within that found accountability with one of the guys. Woohoo!

So, here's a little info about my friends:

Brent

Is working on his Ph.D planning to move soon in connection with that end. He's really laid back, plays guitar (which I have yet to hear), and overall is showing himself a great friend. Also, like myself, he's single and looking... for da ladies ;-)


David & Alex

Married and in their 2nd year. They're in leadership with the Mission, though I'm not sure all that they do. David works for a grounds & facilities department, I think. Does mostly statistics and worksheet type stuff. Alex works for a place that takes care of mentally/physically handicapped people. A therapist I believe. Their job situations are quite vague to me at this point, actually. But they love Jesus and people well. And they are really gifted in hospitality.


Justin & Ivonna
(no picture)
This couple is from Croatia. They are really neat and just had their first baby a couple of days ago. A few weeks ago they had us all over for crepes.


Ok, those are most of my friends. Now here are some pictures from a trip that we guys went on to San Diego. We attended The Call which was a prayer event for the nation right before the elections.


















































Well, that's that for now. Hopefully more to come soon.

Happy Day...

Two months in California and counting...

So, since the last post I've had some pretty neat experiences. One of which was my trip to Disney Land. The way this trip came to pass was amazing as much as the park itself. On my move from Texas, I stayed with James Love in Pasadena. That was fun... except I got a ticket taking a left turn onto a street that is restricted during certain hours of the day. So, my time to visit the courthouse was set for the early part of October. Initially I was pretty bummed out about it, but it turned out to be a blessing, though it's not quite over yet.

Now, James has an artist friend named Mike who does animation for Disney. So, we got into the park for free. This was an exciting day to go as well for two reasons. Number one, it was the same day as Miley Cyrus'(Hannah Montana, Billy Ray Cyrus' daughter) 16th birthday celebration at Disney. Very exciting. We didn't stay for the party :-|(it was invitation only... I guess we slipped her mind). Also, in continuation of my California cultural education, it was Gay Day at the park.

Anyways, this was definitely the most enjoyable theme park experience I've ever had. The rides are really creative and some have their own theme music that plays during the ride. More than anything, though, it was just refreshing to be able to relax in the company of friends--definitely not the norm these days.

So, other than that, been working at Peet's Coffee. For a while I was looking for a second part-time job, but I think the word from God for this season is to dwell in the land and feed on his faithfulness (Psalm 37). So, that's more what I'm focusing on right now--just doing a great job and picking up hours wherever I can. And I'm watching Him make the money work out all the time. It's actually quite ridiculously amazing the way he does it.

He's really, really good at what He does.

Life... à la mode!

So, maybe after a two-week break there's enough life that's happened to make up a short post.

Ok, well, I started the foundations course a week late at The Mission because of work schedule. It's pretty cool, though. Actually, it's a lot more work than I was anticipating. They assign homework. I kinda miss homework... something about it makes you feel smarter--even when you're just staring at the wall at Peet's thinking about something totally unrelated to Foundations homework-- *clears throat* -- but, I've... never... done that. This course is really going to be good for me, though. It's a requirement for any church involvement other than the regular meetings, i.e. mission trips, corporate outreach, etc. And the leaders really have a heart to bring people into the experience of God that is in the information. So, they make us put it into practice in class. Pretty neat idea.

As I've mentioned before, it's been slow getting to know people here. Well, on Sunday I was really excited to go to my first small group meeting. So, I hung out after church in Vacaville till 4pm when the meeting was to start. For the last 45min of my wait I was actually in front of the house resting in my car thinking "I really hope they don't look out their windows and see me." So, the time came around... I was a bit curious. No other cars driving up. "Hmmmmm...", I thought. Knocked on the door. No response. Yeah, so it turns out they're on a mission trip this week and I guess I missed the memo in typical Thomas style.

But all was not lost. I know God's got good planning, but this week was amazing. So, a little back story. Money's been tight but enough amazingly for everything I need... I mean, if I could write out the balance sheet of the last month and a half it would look like this: Thomas-???? God-:-) How does he do it? Like when rent's due, loan payment's due, my battery on my car dies, and my first and only paycheck is two weeks late (literally living on tips which varies from $20-30 a week!). But... here I sit. I haven't missed a meal. Probably actually gained some weight from eating beans, rice and potatoes. I now make a mean stew, by the way. Anyways, I finally got paid and it is EXACTLY the amount to cover rent, loan payment, replacement battery ($91 Ouch!), and tithe. Not only that, but the financial timing has been perfect as well. If the check was any later I would have been sunk.

Wow, what a long back story... So, God's timing and suprises are great! So, with the last two paragraphs coloring for you my situation in general (few friends, not many tasty enhancements to my diet), you'll now know the importance of Wednesday. I was actually invited by my church carpool to a prayer meeting they have on Wednesday nights. So, I show up 10 minutes late... On my way I'm picturing a very solemn meeting with people crying out to God in fervent intercession. And where you sneak in and get a look from the leader like "this is very serious, please be seated." And, of course, you're kicking yourself for being late because if there were refreshments you missed them; and to eat them during or afterwards, well, that would just be cheating, right? Borderline gluttonesque (you sinner;-)). So, long story short... I walked in and they were just chatting. Then they forced me to have iced cream with the chocolate shell stuff on top... a real sacrifice, which I thoroughly enjoyed... wow (now Kelli is jealous). And if that wasn't good enough... when we started they asked me to lead worship for them! I mean, God. He's like specifically setting me up. Also, they seem to be really great guys that are searching for the kingdom and what it means and how to live it at work and in life--the very questions I've been pondering.

I think these are going to be some good friends over time.

Next time, maybe I'll tell you about Eliju (Ee-lie-who), who is probably the most interesting spiritualist person I've met yet in California. Or possibly about the bisexual-liberal-buddist I work with... Oh, the possibilities. But you'll just have to wait!

:-D

One year...

Well, the plan is... still figuring that one out. After a couple of weeks of praying every prayer I know and trying to sell my car, the best offer I got was $2,200. So, I'm not selling my car and I'm not doing the worship training school this year.

You know, I'm actually really relieved that God is leading me in this direction. To be honest, I've been struggling with lonliness and boredom; but add to that the uneasiness of not being sure where to concentrate my attention and energy. I've really needed to be able to point myself in a direction and say I'm going this way. Lately it's been more like pointing myself in several possible directions and feeling stuck. So, here I am. I'm going to work for a year and save to be able to do the school next year or possibly to do something completely different. A year can change a lot of things, huh? I know that for sure first hand. That doesn't mean I'm home free by any means. God is really going to have to provide me with several things. And this is what I'm praying for right now as well:


1. Godly friendship. This is moving really sloooow. But I'm about to do an 8-week foundations course with the church to get to know people.

2. Discipleship. I'm not taking this instance with the training school to sit back, but I'm taking it as leading from Jesus that I'm to pursue growth other ways. I need accountability and to experience the joy of a godly mentor relationship. If you know me well, you know I'm a verbal processor. I need a pair of ears to help me think!

3. Job. I'm going to need a second part-time job or a full-time job.


In the last two weeks everything's been screaming at me that I've made the wrong decision and that it's all falling apart. I just want to say for the record that God is faithful even when things don't go my way. I will see the goodness of the Lord in my situation. So, according to his plan and leading, I'm committing to stay here a year and seek what God has for me. He can mess my plans up if desired, but I'm not leaving for fear of failure or lack, if you know what I mean.

So, that's where I'm at. I'm so thankful for my friendships from home and abroad. I know I would not be walking in very much confidence and encouragement right now without the history of walking with such wonderful faith-filled friends.

I'm blessed!

Picture time

So, in keeping up with Kristine--as if I really could--
I've got a picture now on my blog.






Thanks... you can all go home now.

Keeper

"Sheeringly rockus," says the New York Times...

"A summer hit!" writes Ebert and his friend...

In the small town of Davis, CA lived a simple man with a somewhat unusual sense of humor--but humor was exactly what this town needed most. In this summer blockbuster of the season, you'll be blown away by the stunning visual effects as the thrilling life of Thomas Wright, played by Oscar Award-winning Leonardo DiCaprio, pans out before your very eyes in awesome 3-D! Be amazed all over again as you see it again for the first time... the first time! Fun for the whole family awaits you as Thomas breaks into the unsuspecting lives or his fellow Peet's Coffee employees with unrelenting humor and punning for your viewing enjoyment.

Blog III
...coming Sep. '08

*Ahem*... Ok, so I needed to have some fun.

So, in all reality, I've been enjoying California and taking it all in-- the way God's been providing for me and directing my steps. Also, you may remember me mentioning that I was planning on applying at iWar, the worship training school at The Mission. Well, I applied a little late (was waiting on the application fee money) and I got accepted! It's really funny how God works. One thing I've consistently felt from Him was that He's moving at the speed I am... like I'm setting the pace. So, I really was in a place a week ago where I didn't know if I wanted to apply to the school or not. The money was the reason for my debate because it costs $2,500 to attend the school for the year and I haven't gotten a paycheck yet since I've been in California. But, you know, God is amazing... He just kept reminding me and holding out various promises to me last week. Then on Sunday there was a presentation, of all things, at church about the training schools where several people got up and told their testimonies about how God's led them from all over the U.S. to attend this school and provided miraculously the money needed. A couple of the stories were a lot like mine. I just sat there, my heart burning with hunger and my mind wondering if I'd missed something God had for me here. Afterwards, I went down front to talk with one of the leaders of the school and asked if there was any chance I could still apply. He asked me to tell my story and afterward he encouraged me to go ahead and put it in God's hands by applying. So, I did that yesterday and got to spend a good amount of time talking with one of the leaders and he was so encouraging. Funny, too, he was SO a James Love personality and read me right away in some of the things he was feeling from the Lord as we spoke. Only James can fully feel the importance of that last sentence. Anyways, really encouraging.

New paragraph... whew... So, I went home and prayed and something unusual for me began to happen. I think I can best describe my state as "giddy" before the Lord. I just had peace and emotion (strange for me) and I felt such joy. It's like all the challenges that are ahead of me became like a child's game and it didn't matter whether I won or lost. I still feel that way today, interestingly enough. That being the case, I really believe I need this from the Lord. If He provides the money for the school I'm going to have to quit my new job and move from my new place of living to Vacaville to be close to town. So, unless God is my keeper, this is the craziest decision of my life. In fact, today I listed my car on Craigslist. Funny, I was talking before the move about wanting to sell my car and rely on public transportation and my bike(which I got fixed and is really fun to ride!).

Anyways, I've settled in my heart to work and save for next year if the money isn't here in time. I need it within about 10 days if I'm to do the school this year. Hey, we'll see, right? God's not worried... and no money is an obstacle to His plans.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


   Keeper

My tread-worn path etches long and deep
  Given no reason to be here
  'cept that you've called and I'm yours to keep
Into provision one safety liner's sink
  Have no reason to fear
  Awaken my heart with strong lover's wink
One back burner broken, time's leftovers lost
  Into forward motion you steer
  The call to jump ship at whatever the cost




Thanks for reading...

Faithful...

Well, it's about time to fill in some of the juicy details of my California life situation.

First off, I'm enjoying my job at Peet's Coffee. More details about that later. Over the weekend I was really praying that God would work out my money situation. I started work at Peet's and about the same time drained my bank account to $1.70. So, on top of being low on funds, the car needed gas, I needed $4 for a bike tube to bike to work, and I was running low on the groceries. Well, let me back track for a second to say God is so faithful of a provider. When I moved into my house here in Davis I slept on the floor for a couple nights because, obviously, I can't fit a bed in my car, so I didn't have one. Well, after a couple of days, my housemates, Wayne and Sarah, were given a king-sized bed by one of their parents. They went and picked it up and said, "Hey, you want the bed we were sleeping on?" So, I got a queen bed (an upgrade from my twin I had in Belton) straight from the hand of the Lord. Also, I was running low on clean clothes with no money to go to a laundry mat. So, about the same day that I was thinking about hand washing my clothes in the kitchen sink, they tell me that they're being given a washer and dryer. It came two days later. Oh yeah, and I was in a goodwill the previous Sunday looking to buy some shirts for work as I was starting that week; but the shirts were $4 and the pants $8. Not exactly thrift shop prices as I was expecting. All I had was a tin of coins. Well, I was asking for directions to another thrift store when this lady walks up and offers to buy me a couple of shirts and a pair of pants. Praise God! Provision.

Ok, new paragraph... sorry, long one there. So, anyways. $1.70. Well, I made some of the most awesome beans and rice I've made so far. And, my housemates out of the blue said I was welcome to any of their food which I'm doing my best to not take advantage of as much as possible, but it's nice for the basics which I can replace easily. So, then yesterday I got handed last week's tips-- my first earned money since I've been in California. Yah! I got my bike tube, enough groceries to get me through to next week, a little gas... and I got an email from someone who goes to The Mission (my church) and lives in Davis. They want to carpool regularly.

Anyways, I could go on and on... God's faithfulness is just overwhelming my heart. Better save the rest of the details for another post.

THANK YOU for praying and standing with me.

Poetry Break

Caged

Cruelty of greatest kind
  Gives working wings, but not to fly
A songbird's voice once rising higher
  Falls silent by hopeless desire
Safely caged and managed then
  Not pleasing God, nor helping men
Leaves passion and the heart divorced
  The captor's rule always enforced
But, one day love blows strong and free
  As safety bows to turning key
Revealing now for eye to see
  From lonely meadow and high tree
Timely change unearths the lie
  T'was not a cage held me; but I

by Ashtom Ghirwt

Snap, Crackle, Pop!

Sometimes I feel like my life's an episode of StarTrek when I write a blog entry. You know, how the episodes start,

"Captain's log. Stardate 159 dash 682. We entered the orion nebula...etc."

Anyways... I'm not entering any nebulas today, so don't worry. But I did start work at Peet's Coffee today. You know, I think it's kinda weird, but the Lord could be showing me something with this job. Starbucks and Peet's are almost opposite in their approach to the coffee house scene--Peet's being way more laid back almost across the board. I did find, however, that Starbucks training is better organized and mushy-feeling. Peet's trains by fire. Today was like being a piece of meat thrown onto a hot skillet in a microwave kitchen... ok, maybe I'm being overly dramatic, but it was seriously sensory overload. It's going to be extremely good...err, once I stop sizzling.

I'm also in the process of applying to the iWar (Institute for Worship Art Resources) school at my church in Vacaville. I'm really hungry to grow both in my giftings and in my experience with God. I believe God's made me a worshipper of Him in spirit and in truth and I want to run with that as far and as long as He provides for me. Anyways, you can check out the school at http://iwarschool.com/.

God is an amazing provider. It's like I can't outgive or outlive His provision. I just wonder how far I can run with this reality.... so far, so good, eh?

Very good.

Coffee Loves Company

Here we go again..........

I'm so thankful for Jesus. Without him my life would go in circles around an endless mountain. But with him, even if life looks like circles they have purpose and a meaning beyond my control.

So, the last few days were really hard. In the last week, I applied at about 10 different places in 3 towns. It's emotionally exhausting to put yourself out there over and over again and not see interest. So, I'll have to be honest, I was fighting internally whether God was going to bless this move or not. This was a real fight for my spirit to arise and really keep going and trust that I am walking with God.

Yesterday was day three of tough discouragement; but, thanks to grace, I kept going and applied at a grocery store and then Peet's Coffee. And I got hired at Peet's! There's no way for me to express how thankful I am for this job. I think every other job I've had has just happened--haven't needed to fight for it. But this one I've worked hard to find.

I think it's going to be much different from here on out.

A new home...

Tomorrow I'll be moving into the house that I'll be living at for who knows how long. It's a really neat place, though. It's in Davis, CA - centrally located between Vacaville and Sacramento.

My room is on the top floor of an A-frame house and is one of the largest rooms. It even has a small balcony! Downstairs it has a small cottage type feel and is perfect for me and my two (three eventually) housemates. The house is located on a small farm that boards and trains horses.

So, God continues to lead. I found this place in like one day and it's perfect for my financial needs.