The Jacob Ray Times

the 100th post

2011-08-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

for the past month, I've been searching for ways to make post #100 straight up awesome.

I could've painted the LU spirit rock during Middle School camp, but I didn't get spray paint. I could've done something awesome in DC at SLU, but I forgot. I could've done something awesome during Super Summer, but I was busy setting up and making sure everything was good for the event. I could've done something in an astronaut suit during Worship Arts camp, but I was wrapped up with packing.

so, here I am, at Liberty University. I can't really think of anything other than the fact that I'm a college freshman. yes, a college freshman. it still feels weird to say that once again, I'm a freshman.

so, I guess post #100 will be the summer recap post!

let's take it back to June...

June 18th, I graduated, had a party, did the whole shabang. the next day, I broke up with my (current ex) girlfriend (again). June wasn't looking too hot at that point. then, I decided to just go hang out up at the church and got to know none other than Ian Dunaway, one of the coolest youth interns ever (excluding my brotha Jake!). June turned into...

July

The first week was the Chi Alpha tour, which was the last time I posted anything. that week was definitely the calm before the storm of events. I had a good week just hanging out and doing nothing, but I looked at my calendar and realized that I had a few days before everything got busy. Middle School camp came, and I literally felt dead by the end of the week, because I had freshman orientation all day Friday (what made matters worse is that I didn't get to see the Braves' 10,000th win). I came home Saturday afternoon, and got to go to church the next morning and see everyone before I took off for another week of activities in...

DC at SLU201. I had another thing coming to me, because all week I was literally run into the ground. it was awesome being able to meet fellow Liberty Flames on my bus, and learning about the founding fathers and their faith, but I was so stinkin' tired by the time we left for home. and to make a hot bus even worse, I decided to pick a seat that wasn't in the path of the air conditioning. let's just say I had to change shirts more times than Jake has ever had to in one day... the last Wednesday in the month was Warped Tour, so of course I had to go! it was a great first Warped Tour, minus the fact that everything smelled like smoke, weed, or alcohol. July ended rather quietly, but I did get to know some people better the last week ;)

August

August: the home stretch of the field before college. the first week was filled with preparation for Super Summer, LSM's biggest youth outreach event. it was awesome being able to get a deeper glimpse of how much work goes into putting together such a big event. by this time, the reality of leaving such a prolific ministry was setting in, and on the last night I broke down in tears at the fact that I had been so blessed to be apart of such a great thing. Thursday and Friday of the week were devoted to rest and recuperation for the next week:

Worship Arts camp. I had been asked to play an astronaut, a pilot by the name of Buzz Wright, in the skits. I acted alongside Whipple, my high school small group leader, and Kevin Litton, the children's pastor. it was just straight up comical. all the kids thought we were crazy, but that's okay because it was funny. packing was tough, due to the fact that I had so many people to hang out with and so little time. somehow, I found the time to pack up my whole life in five tubs so I could move to Liberty. my time was budgeted to packing in the mornings after the worship rallies, going back for lunch and combined choir time, packing more in the afternoon, then hanging out at night. hanging out with friends kinda turned into hanging out with one person, but nonetheless I got to say all my "see you later's" (because it isn't goodbye) and see everyone I needed to see.

and here we are: college, week one. I'm next door to Jake Barnes, down the hall from the Ethridges, and have LOTS of friends here on (and off) campus to hang out with and have fun.

for future posts, if anyone has ANY ideas, I'd be open to them! just let me know, and I'll be sure to write about them!

-JR

summer thus far!

2011-07-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say this week has been the most spiritually challenging week of my life.

to start, the majority of my best and closest friends went to Atlanta for Chi Alpha tour, opening up the opportunity for me to pray for them. this has genuinely bettered my prayer life, because it feels like every spare minute I've had has been filled with lifting up the group and asking for their safety and courage to spread God's Word. I asked a few people this past week if there was anything specific I could pray about for them, and I'm so glad that I did. it's given me a chance to really help someone out by praying for a certain thing instead of having to go through a generic list of possible needs he or she might have. I know that it's going to be tough for the rest of summer because I won't have the opportunity to pray for something completely awesome like Chi Alpha, but I know that I need to keep up this practice of praying ceaselessly.

secondly, if you've been seeing my tweets or status updates, you've seen how my minivan has been messing up and having belt problems. well, last night on the way to Covell's house, it sang its last and the engine locked up. it was mainly operator error though, since I stupidly kept on driving instead of stopping immediately. but, to God be the glory, because our mechanic/close friend Walter had a 2000 Toyota Camry that he is selling to us that I can drive starting tomorrow!

thirdly, I've been reading in Exodus these past 10 days, seeing how Moses and Aaron have gone to Pharaoh and asked for freedom from slavery. this has been teaching me a few things. it's taught me that even though I may be lacking in one area (i.e., Moses lacking in public speaking), there's a brother out there that can help me (Aaron being a good speaker). it's also taught me that to those who are faithful, God will provide - Jehovah Jireh. He allowed the Hebrews to leave Egypt, gave them Mana, and led them the whole way (nevermind that the Hebrews were idiots).

next week, I'm going as a counselor to Middle School camp, and this will really be MY camp this year. the last time we as LSM went to a camp like this, I literally got NOTHING out of it. my prayer for the kids I'm leading, and for everyone there, is that they won't be like me as a 7th grader, that they'll truly learn from what the speakers are saying. I know that I can't go back and redo the first 4 years of my student ministry experience, but I hope that I can make at least one student's middle school years a better time through just hanging out with them and talking with them about just plain old stuff. the week after, I'll be going to D.C. for SLU 201. I've heard so many great things about 201; I'm SO stoked to be going. random fact about me: I LOVE history/trivia/geography/etc., and I've heard that this year is more of that, so I'll feel right at home! I can't wait to see what God's gonna teach me through these next two weeks.

-JR

and i find myself here on my knees again, caught up in grace like an avalanche

2011-07-03T12:16:00.000-07:00

as the summer gets underway, everyone starts taking trips and going to camps, among other things. yesterday, a group of students, Chi Alpha, from our church left for Atlanta (I used to be in Chi Alpha, but I just didn't have the time to prepare and go on tour). it's been so awesome watching from the outside as my peers, my best friends, have grown spiritually and grown as a collective group to their current state: unified and together.

yesterday, I was reading in Exodus 4, and I came across verses 11 and 12:
11 Then the Lord said to him, “Who has made man's mouth? Who makes him mute, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.”
after I read this, all I could think of was the Chi Alpha group, how they're going to different shelters and churches and sharing God's story through example and music. Moses wasn't the most gifted speaker; he calls himself "slow of speech and of tongue" in an earlier verse. but, God used Moses still. He told Moses to speak through his brother Aaron, leading the Hebrews out of Egypt and into the promised land. I know the majority of the students on tour personally, and I know that all of them aren't as eloquent as Aaron, or Ben, or John-Paul, or our Pastor. but, God has given those kids their own "Aaron", so to speak: He's given them the gift of music, to speak to the people through the songs, and maybe even the other students who are sharing their testimonies in between songs. at the last practice they had, I had the opportunity to hear my good friend Hailey's testimony, about how as a 14 year old she was faced with medical obstacles, and how God intervened and became evident to her. I heard one of my best friends Zac share (or practice sharing, since it was in a practice setting) the Gospel in such a powerful way that will allow those in attendance to relate to the students and allow God to step in and become evident to every single person, both performer and attendee.

in Fusion today, Jody was talking about how he responded to his son's needs, which therefore allowed Landon to be open with his dad, and allowed Jody to challenge his son and ask him to glorify God through his actions that week. it all started with Landon calling on his dad for help.

isn't that how our walk with Christ is supposed to look like? we call upon Jesus' name, we receive the help that only He can give, we open our lives to Him and for Him, and we become challenged to spread His name, His word, glorify Him through all we do. the Lord is infinitely worthy of all we have. He's jealous FOR us (not OF us) and our affections. He wants us to worship Him and Him alone, and He deserves that worship. without Him, nothing would be here, so He more than deserves our love, worship, praise, and everything.

please be praying for the students in Chi Alpha. pray for their strength, health, attitudes, and hearts, so that they may give God all that He deserves through this mission trip. pray for God to be their mouths and to teach them what they shall speak. pray for Jeff Askew, the leader of Chi Alpha, to have a clear head and heart to lead the students. pray for the adult leaders who are watching over the kids and leading them in small groups. pray for the Stephen Cole band and Stephen Dervan as they lead the students in worship and bible study at nights.

-JR

a glorious unveiling, a beautiful revelation

2011-06-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

it feels like all this summer (however short it's been) God's been going to work on my heart. it's only been around 2 full weeks and I've already been feeling burdened and stirred in my heart.

with the movement of Fusion from Wednesdays to Tuesdays, I've really been able to connect with the college ministry and grow through what they're doing, as well as continue to lead in the student ministry. the Fusion band has been doing a few new Hillsong United songs ("Go" and "Awakening") and I've just been hit hard by the lyrics. they talk about giving everything up and following God, and desiring for the flame in our lives to be completely set ablaze once again for His glory.

lately, I've been struggling with giving over everything to God and settling with where I am in my walk right now. at the beginning of the summer, I was completely wrestling with God because I had initially obeyed Him by breaking up with my girlfriend, then got scared and took back my decision, THEN was slapped in the face by conviction and guilt and broke up with her again. from this, I've received so much backlash from the opposing party, yet so much reinforcement from my closest friends and family. I've been so at peace with my actions, and the other side can't understand it, but I know that this peace is straight from God above.

I've had this pressure building in my chest, and it's because I feel like God's gonna use me in a huge way this summer. I'm going as a leader to Middle School camp alongside my bandmates, best friends, mentors, and other students, and middle school was the most challenging time in my walk because I had so much persecution from my classmates and so many trials that I had all but given up. I hope that I can use my experiences as a tool to reach the kids who are checked out of Christianity and are just "lukewarm" (if there is such a thing). it makes me feel pure excitement to have such an awesome opportunity to share my heart and gain experience for my ministry in the future. the thing I'm most worried about is that I'll just get so caught up in teaching the kids that I won't remember to open my eyes, heart, mind, and ears to the sessions at camp and learn from them.

with all that's happened in my life and our church this summer in the form of spiritual warfare, it's obvious that God's gonna be working in humongous ways these next few months and years. will you be willing to step up and be apart of what God has for you to do? will you feel the urgency and call that He has on your life and want to do something about it?

only YOU can do what God has for you. in Luke 19:40, Jesus says that "I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out." if you don't do what God asks you to do, then He'll find other ways of getting the glory. He's so worthy of it, that it's a mandatory action that we give Him all the glory, honor, and praise. He sent His only son, Jesus Christ, to be our High Priest and cleanse our stained lives to make us one with Him yet again. if Jesus hadn't come down and been crucified, we would be stuck where we are, condemned and doomed to hell. but, God loved us SO incredibly much that He was gracious enough to send Christ to be the propitiation (an atoning sacrifice) for our filthiness. without Him, we wouldn't be alive, both physically and spiritually. without Him, nothing would be here. God deserves our praise and obedience. if we don't obey, we're screwed; simply put.

1 God is our refuge and strength,
   a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
   though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
   though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Psalm 46

-JR

late-nights and a heavy mind

2011-06-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

I dunno if this is just in my life, but it's been hitting me hard lately.

a few years ago, I cracked my skull playing soccer, leaving me unable to play for an indefinite amount of time. that pastime, that part of my life that I enjoyed with such a passion, was unexpectedly taken from me, but God allowed me to use this closed door to practice and get into the LSM Student Band, in which I still play.

that line of Christian fame in Tree63's "Blessed Be Your Name" that says "You give and take away, You give and take away, my heart will choose to say, Lord blessed be Your name" has literally been punching me in the face for the past month or so. I've been reading in Genesis about how Joseph was sold into slavery, taking away his freedom, but also giving him more in the future, so of course that would be one of the basic motifs of Old Testament stories. but, God's been revealing so much more to me than just that. He put it on my heart to break up with my girlfriend, closing that door and relationship.

yeah Jacob, so what? that's just one instance

this past Saturday, a lady who is like my grandmother suffered a debilitating stroke, taking away the most precious thing that God ever gave her: the ability to speak, to share what God has done in her life, to encourage strangers and family alike, to crack jokes, to be her sweet self. how am I supposed to praise God through such a tragedy? it's nearly impossible. but, to the taking there is giving: I can give thanks because God opened the door for the VBS volunteers to praise His Name this whole week, through the good and bad.

when my dad died, the last words I ever spoke to him were something to the effect of, "I hate you." as I went to school that day, I had resolved that I would just say that I was sorry when he came to pick me up. that never happened, because I was called down to the office around lunchtime and found out that my dad had had a massive heart attack and died sometime between when I left for school and around 9:30am. "You give and take away, You give and take away, my heart will choose to say, Lord blessed be Your name". how in the world could I ever praise God for taking my dad?

if you look at my life today, then look at my life back in 6th grade, I'm hoping there would be a major difference. I can honestly say that if my dad hadn't have died, I wouldn't be the young man I am today. I wouldn't have chosen to follow God with my future and become a youth minister. I wouldn't be able to use this tragedy to give God all the glory.

our tomorrow isn't promised. our hopes, dreams, and plans aren't promised. our good looks aren't promised. our ability to play sports isn't promised. our talents, our livelihoods, our friends, our family, our happiness isn't promised. our health isn't promised. nothing is guaranteed to us, but we live like we have a full and prosperous life ahead of us.

Martin Luther once said, "There are two days in my calendar: This day and that Day." we must only worry about what we have to do today, and how we live our lives so that on Judgement Day God will say to us, "Well done, good and faithful servant." John Piper wrote an entire book called Don't Waste Your Life. yet we, yes we Christians, who know good and well that we don't know if we have the next second of our lives, live as if we have the next 50 years, 60 years, even next year, of our lives to do something.

don't put off what you can do today on tomorrow's workload.

-JR

music review: Emery - We Do What We Want

2011-06-24T12:57:00.001-07:00

when I was in middle school/early high school, I was big into the hardcore/screamo/post-hardcore music scene (at one point, I was the "screamer" for a band a couple of friends and I put together. it went nowhere). I've tapered off into more of a sampler of this type of music, but I still like it. recently, I discovered, with J-Holla's help, Emery's newest release, "We Do What We Want". it's MUCH heavier than their other albums, but nonetheless still a quality album.

for a bit of background, Emery (Tooth & Nail/Solid State Records) is a christian rock band from Seattle/South Carolina that could possibly be described as "post-hardcore", due to their various growls and screams throughout the tracks. they've had 5 full-length albums, with 2 EP's. (check them out for sure)

Toby Morrell says, about the album, “Lyrically I think this is our most personal, spiritual album. It talks about our faith and God, but it never gets too preachy, because it's basically talking about me and things I've gone through. I can't not tell the truth of who I am, and this time I explored that even further—just points in my life, or in the other guys' lives. Some lyrics are about challenging authority and God, and is God real, and what that even means.”

this is definitely a must listen-to album for all those heavier music fans, so regardless of your musical taste, check it out because it's a truly good record.

-JR

mind-dump

2011-06-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

this past few months have been filled with so much stuff, I've hardly had enough time to have one of these suckers. so, let's empty my brain and see what we find...

- I'm graduated. not like a cylinder, like a high school senior
- I've been so bored so far this summer, all I've done is go up to the church, hang out with interns, and leave
- I broke up with my girlfriend recently (and that's all to say about that, since I don't want to waste my energy with little details)
- I've gotten to be good friends with the youth intern, mister Ian Dunaway, and he's definitely an awesome dude
- I started P90X today, and my arms and legs are like straight jello
- I'm so ready to go to Liberty in the fall, I really can't wait
- I'm currently sitting in the interns' office, and I'm literally bored outta my mind. Ian, if you can see this post as soon as it posts, COME BACK. PLEASE.
- I'm almost at the end of my Youth Band "career", since I'll be moving up to college starting this summer
- God's been opening and closing doors in my life to new/old people, opportunities, and everything in between, and I'm excited for what He wants me to do with all these new options
- I've been getting into different music lately, especially Ratatat, Gungor, Emery, Taking Back Sunday, and Patrick Stump's solo act
- lately I've been reading through Genesis, and I've learned that we Christians should always be faithful, for God will provide for us, and that no matter what, we need to forgive our "brother", in all sense of the word
- I'm going to Middle School camp July 11th-15th as a counselor at Liberty University, then to SLU201 the following week in Washington, D.C.
- I've been looking for another job, since the recreation position I have here at church gives me little/no hours, and the job I have my eye on is looking all but taken by someone else

mind dump: complete
-JR

for those with questions

2011-06-12T18:44:00.000-07:00

alright, so if you're one of my 800 plus Facebook friends, you must have seen that I was single for the past few days, and that tonight (Sunday) my relationship status changed yet again.

well, I'm here to dispel all the mystery around these actions.

let us go back to Thursday...

I had begun thinking about college, and I simply panicked about the workload/distance/etc., and rashly decided that I should break up with Katie.

now to Friday...

Katie and I are talking (because we decided to still be friends), and I realized that I had done something stupid by breaking up with her. so, I tell her what I had thought and we mutually decided to get back together.

to Saturday...

nothing really happened with that whole area, except we talked all day.

to tonight...

we are officially back together, Facebook even says it.

and that's the story. it's as simple as I can explain it. all is well, as it should be.

-JR

first LU schedule!

2011-05-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

alright, so I officially have my Fall 2011 class schedule!

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
8:50 - 9:40
Contemporary Issues I

11:25 - 12:15
Composition and Rhetoric

2:55 - 3:45
Survey of American History I

4:05 - 5:20
Survey of Youth Ministries
(Mondays and Wednesdays only)

Tuesdays and Thursdays
9:15 - 10:30
Old Testament Survey

2:00 - 3:15
Intro to Missions

I'm not too sure of the rooms and such, but if any of you think you might be in class with me, let me know! I'd love to be in class with some friends!

- JR

we, we, we, we so excited!

2011-04-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited about college.

"why?" you may ask...

well, I'll tell you. originally, I had decided to stay home and go to Thomas Nelson. as of last night, that's changed.

it's changed because I've decided to go here:

yep, I'm going to go to my dream school: Liberty University!

ever since I was in middle school, even though I hadn't decided to be a youth pastor, I've wanted to go to LU. the campus was amazing, the student body was so encouraging, and the atmosphere was exactly what I wanted in a college. not only that, but all the LBC college kids that I knew that went there when I first visited were all mentors in my life.

not much has changed there, except the LBC college kids have changed from my mentors to my peers, and most importantly some of my best friends.

I'm really looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me, because this decision has put me at ease over so many other concerns I've had about college.

-JR

month of craziness + alliterative rounds = basketball time!

2011-03-14T13:06:00.000-07:00

well, it's time for that march madness they call... well, March Madness!

yesterday was Selection Sunday, today is National Bracket Day (which should be a federal holiday, allowing us to be off from work and school), and games start tomorrow. my bracket(s) is/are filled out, my picks have been made, and I'm ready for the tournament to start! this year, I've created a bracket for the LSM students/staff, and some others (so as to invite them to come to church!) so we can all participate in the fun of picking our teams.

here are my picks for the tournament. obviously, I'm probably not gonna win, but it's fun to pick my favorite team as the winner!

now, go and pick teams!!! email me/comment if you'd like to be in on the LSM Bracket with us

but,

1. you've gotta attend Liberty Baptist (preferably)

2. you've gotta do so before Wednesday (3/16/2011)

3. you've gotta have fun with it!

-JR

i tweet, therefore i am (a social networker)

2011-03-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

alright, so I haven't been as faithful to blog lately as I have been in the past, but oh well.

notice that large image up top? ^ well, if you have one, (two things)...

1. awesome!
2. follow me!

below my banner, you can find a mini-twitter-feed, so you should be a good blog-follower and become a good twitter-follower too by going to http://www.twitter.com/jacobrray

thanks!

-JR

a good old "About Me"

2010-12-01T11:39:00.000-08:00

it's been awhile since I've last posted, but I've been skimming through my old entries and I've realized one major thing:

I never did an introductory "About Me" post

to those of you who follow this blog pretty frequently (which pretty much means Jake Holland and, like, three other people maybe): Sorry!

so, here it is, the "About Me" post that never happened:

- my name is (obviously) Jacob Ray
- I love God
- I'm a well-versed musician
- I'm (currently) 17 years old
- I love my girlfriend, Katie Guye, very much
- I'm a big fan of Hillsong (and their numerous other bands that stem from them)
- I'm a social networking nerd
- Mac > PC
- I want to be a Worship Leading Youth Pastor when I "grow up"/finish school
- I love Batman, but Marvel Comics is my favorite by far
- I go to Liberty Baptist Church in Hampton, VA, and lead worship there as a lead guitarist on Wednesday nights in youth group
- I'm a very time-conscientious person, and I like being places/doing things in an orderly and timely fashion. however, hanging out j-holla has almost broken me of such habits. almost
- I like keeping up with what's going on in the world

as far as I know, that's pretty much it!
you stay classy

-JR

help please?

2010-11-05T11:59:00.000-07:00

recently, I've been sensing this tug on my heart (and my mind) towards music, specifically worship. in all honesty, I want to lead worship for a living, but I don't feel qualified to do so.

I can't read music. I don't have a great voice. I'm a mediocre rhythm guitarist, and can't sing at all when I'm on lead guitar. I don't like being the center of attention.

I guess what I need is help on what I need to do to become a worship leader, because I have no clue how I can do that.

So, to all you worship leaders (paid or unpaid) out there, help...?

-JR

little-known facts about me

2010-09-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

recently, I had a revelation: I'm afraid to open up to people. I realized this when I began ranting to my girlfriend about just stuff, and I really started to open up more to her.

so, to start on the road to getting rid of this fear, I'll start here. on this blog.

- I'm afraid of change. I've lived in the same place for 17 years straight. not just the same place, the same house, in the same room. and for 16 or so years before I was born, my mom and dad lived in this same house too. it about KILLED me when my dad died because almost everything changed. who was gonna pick me up from school? who was gonna keep on teaching me about life? everything sorta just crumbled around me since the biggest part of my life had changed completely.

- when I first meet a person, I'll typically be very vague and gradually open up. normally, this "opening up" doesn't happen until a looooong time down the road.

- I want to fit in with everyone. I want people to like me. I hate not being liked. however bad it may be, sometimes I'll do things or say things that I won't normally do or say just because I want someone to like me.

- whenever I've started dating someone, I've always attached myself to them early on in the relationship. why? because I'm scared. I'm scared that if I don't show early on that I really like them or care for them, then they'll leave. this goes hand-in-hand with losing my dad.

- I've always had problems getting close to people. it seems like when I get the closest to someone, they either leave and go onto something else, or they die. prime example: my dad.

- I like doing things the easy way. I don't like changing how to do something when the easiest way worked the best (perfect example of not liking change).

- I use to always have some sort of doubt about if God is truly there, and if He's really who we've been taught He is. where did this all start? with my dad dying.

- if given the choice, I'd choose being alone or with a couple people instead of being with/in a group. I've never liked big crowds, because when I'm in them, I just feel like a number, and not someone that's cared about.

- I've always had some sort of issue with showing affection, and having to all the time (or when possible). I don't know why though.

- I'm tired of the whole "denomination" thing with churches. my dream is to do away with that, because when it comes down to the nitty gritty and bare essentials, the people who are in the church aren't followers of a doctrine, they're a follower of Jesus Christ (hence the title "Christian").

- I don't like arguing. I would rather let someone else win an argument than get deeper into it.

well, that's all I've got now. stay tuned for more

-JR

back to school, back to school, to prove to dad that i'm not a fool...

2010-09-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

since no one sent me any ideas, I guess I'll have to come up with some stuff on my own.

senior year: two words that can mean so very much. it could mean "180 days til freedom", or "180 days to make an impact". either way, it's a journey, physically and mentally.

today, that journey began for me.

walking into my homeroom class, I was totally stoked (since Katie sits right next to me). when I got my schedule, I wasn't so stoked. here it is:

Green Days
1. Oceanography
2. German 4
3. Government
4. English

Gold Days
1. Public Speaking
2. Psychology
3. and 4. Free Periods

this is totally bogus. I do NOT want to take public speaking. I already know how to speak publicly, how to not say "ummm" more than maybe once, and so on and so forth.

the other problem: I'm supposed to get out at 1:30 BOTH DAYS. not 3:09 one day, and 11:30 the next.
(everything SHOULD [keyword: SHOULD] be straightened out by thursday)

my guidance counselor, who I specifically switched from for this reason, didn't specify anything about how any class would be scheduled. now, I go to the head of guidance, who knows EXACTLY what she's doing. I have high hopes for getting stuff straightened out, and if they don't, I will be extremely mad.

I shall give more update on Thursday...

-JR

help...?

2010-08-20T16:19:00.000-07:00

okay, so I'm sitting here in my room in front of one of the two speakers for my stereo (which is sort of giving me a headache... oh well), and I thought to myself: "I haven't blogged in a 'hot minute,' as some would say." then, I thought: "what the heck can I blog about? I've got nothing, not even enough for a random thought-catcher."

so...

I'm leaving it up to YOU, my readers!

what should I blog about next???

post your ideas in comment-form, email/message them to me, text me, etc.
if you have any ideas, LET ME KNOW. I'm open to (almost) anything!

remember, keep it clean/appropriate, and have fun formulating ideas!

-JR

SLU recap (and more!)

2010-07-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

I found a few spare minutes to write about this past week. I've been at SLU 101 in Orlando, Florida, with a group from church.

at SLU 101, there were 3 days of sessions, focused on teaching/instilling leadership principles and Christian worldview in the minds of students. I've never had such a great time learning about how to be a better leader, develop a worldview centered on Christian values, and meeting new people. in a nut shell, some of the most prominent speakers came to talk to us. these guys usually speak to the Fortune 500 executives, professional sports teams, and other higher-level companies. among the many ones we had, the 3 best speakers (in my opinion) were Chuck Allen, Dr. Bruce Ashford, and Ryan Bowman.

Chuck Allen conducted the session on leadership styles, assisted by the DISC profile. the DISC determined which style you embodied: either Dominant, Influence, Steady, or Correct. to be a dominant is to be assertive, to be an influence is to be eccentric, to be a steady is to be reserved/quiet, and to be a correct is to base off of fact. I was a Correct, and the traits matched me PERFECTLY. Dr. Bruce Ashford spoke on developing a Christian worldview, which was extremely in-depth and informative, as well as eye-opening and refreshing. in this session, Dr. Ashford discussed what Atheists, Pantheists, Deists, and other belief systems believed. finally, Ryan Bowman spoke on how to serve. there was none better for this task, seeing as he was in upper management at the fast-food chain with the best customer service: Chick-fil-a. during his session, I truly developed a better sense of service, and how I can serve in LSM.

since SLU 101 finished yesterday afternoon, we've opted to help with the sponsored mission project, as to employ our new-learned service skills. we're working at Give Kids The World.

Give Kids The World (GKTW) is not an ordinary place. it's all about helping kids become optimistic and have fun. these aren't just any kids though. the majority of the kids have terminal illnesses, and the kids who come here have been given doctors' orders to go, usually because there's not much time left for them.

as we were being given the initial tour, our tour guide Karen took us to the Chapel. she told us a story:

a few years back, a father was in the chapel, praying and reading his Bible. he decided to bring his son along so he could spend some good father-son time together before the boy died. the boy, as many children do, got antsy and decided to throw his blanket up to the ceiling and catch it. during one toss, the blanket got caught on the clouds (wooden 3-D borders on the ceiling). the two left the chapel, and went to their villa to get some sleep. as the father went to lay his son down for the night, he realized the boy's blanket was gone. he searched the whole villa with no result. he called maintenance, and received unwanted news: the blanket was gone for good. as the father broke the news to his son, his son replied, "It's okay daddy, God's just holding it for me until I get to heaven."

these kids have completely changed my perspective on service, and I love working with them.

-JR

b-u-s-y

2010-06-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

long time, no see there, followers. since Ben and Josh are WOW-ing it up right now in the student center, I'll hit up the posting.

for starters, I just got back from camp! the annual LSM Summer Camp occurred at Wake Forest University, bringing fun and fellowship. unfortunately, it also brought injury, burglary, and unnecessary horseplay. our dear friends Stephen Cole Band were the worship band, and Adam Robinson was our speaker. 'twas a greaaaaaaat week for sure!

secondly, I got a haircut.

yes, it IS a bit short, and my ears are visible, but it feels amaaaaaaazing and is super easy to take care of.

thirdly, the FIFA® World Cup has been going on, and is currently in the Quarterfinals. all I gotta say is, GO BRAZIL!

lastly, it's VBS week here at Liberty, and I'm playing bass with John-Paul on guitar, Daniel and Meredith on vocals, and none other than Matt Wiggins on drums. I'm also working in 3C with Mrs. Lisa Fox, Amanda, and Trevor.

what's next? SLU101, the passing of the 3-month mark for Katie and me, (possibly) getting a job, Worship Arts camp, and I dunno what else.

we'll see!

-JR

check it out!

2010-06-10T13:37:00.000-07:00

I know it's been aaaaaaaaages since I last posted, but this is something that's straight up awesome.

most recently, LSM has opened up the Student Center, located behind the already existing church. although it's been open for the past month or so, there has been little activity here (besides the Wednesday and Sunday crowd). namely, I'm speaking of the Thursday afterschool session. I would know, since right now I'm sitting behind the front desk beside Jake Holland (as he watches a WoW freakout video), and there are 5 other students in here.

why am I saying anything about this?

well, this WoW freakout video is hilaaaaarious. oh wait, that doesn't matter...

I say this little statistic because there NEEDS to be more people coming on Thursdays!!!

also, tomorrow night (Friday) is the Tropical-Tiki-Luau-A-Palooza-Fest! what's this, you may ask?

it's a little hang-out night with free smoothies, free tropical food (I think), volleyball, tropical music, and soooooo much more!

it starts at 7, and ends around 10. interested? bring LOTS of friends, and wear tropical-themed clothing (no coconut bras, unfortunately)

hope to see you followers/readers around the LSM Student Center sometime soon!

-JR

major props-giving time

2010-04-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take some time to talk about one of the most influential people in my life. he's not someone who everyone knows, or someone who tries to be cool. he's just a normal guy, living his life for Christ and playing music for His Glory.

his name is Micah Watson.

the first time I ever saw Micah was on the first night of the fall Wednesday night semester during my 6th grade year, when the band played "Dare You To Move" by Switchfoot to kick off the series entitled "Welcome To The Planet". however, that wasn't when I truly met him. I first officially met Micah on the day of tech-team sign-ups, which also was two weeks after my dad had died. he came up to me and said something like "hey, I'm Micah. we need some people to work in the booth in the back, it'd be cool to have you working back there." I still have no clue if Kyle, our youth pastor at the time, had told him that it was my dad that had died, but it really seemed like Micah showed a genuine interest in me as one of the youth he led in worship on a weekly basis. I had no clue that this guy who played guitar and had weird facial expressions while playing would one day become someone who I truly look up to.

6th grade ended, and 7th grade came and left, just like 8th grade did. but one Sunday morning during my 8th grade year sticks out to me, to this day. it was the day Micah stood on stage with Josh Hazel, and, after Josh said a few words, Micah told us that he would be changing positions within the church, and moving to become the worship leader of the soon-to-be-started Genesis service. I know that at the time I didn't really know what was going to happen, since Micah himself even said that it would be a few months until he would be moving to that position. but now, I know that, even though it was all a part of God's plan, it would be the beginnings of the last leg of being led in worship by Micah.

with Micah's shift, new youth ministers, Ben and John-Paul, came in. along with Micah, these two fall in the category of some of the most influential people in my life. John-Paul started leading worship in the Warehouse in Micah's stead. Micah began to lead worship in the gym. I began to start realizing, through these two guys, that worship wasn't just the old boring hymns of times past; it's also the modernization of those old songs to be a better feel for this generation, and the newer songs that allow us to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

my freshman year came and went, and, at camp, I began to feel God's calling on my life to become a Youth Minister. to start this journey to becoming one of God's vessels for His message, I began to delve deeper into having my life become a beacon for God. what better place to start than by listening to Micah's band, which bears his name, and truly listening to the lyrics intertwined within the stunningly orchestrated chord progressions and drum beats. sophomore year started, and Micah's position as my worship leader gave me a deeper connection to what God wants me to do. by this time, I had developed a close relationship with Micah, since I had begun to play bass in our Youth Band. this gave me a deeper connection with him, and allowed me to hear some great things that Micah had to teach about musicianship and staying close to God through it all.

during the middle of my sophomore year, the Sunday morning that I can remember ever so vividly, and the one that I didn't want to come, happened. from behind the microphone, while holding his Godin, Micah made one of the announcements that still saddens me to this day: he had been called to be the worship leader at a little church in Stafford, Virginia called Mount Ararat Baptist Church. I don't even remember the rest of that day, I was so torn up by this news. as I look back today, I praise God that He allowed Micah to be with us for the time he was, and allowing Steve Day, who has become a great mentor and friend, to begin leading worship, but nevertheless, I'm still sad that Micah leads no more at Liberty.

today, more than ever, I can cite Micah Watson as the man that God used to turn me on to worshipping through music. Micah's band, Micah Watson Band, currently comprised of Micah, Joseph Blount, and Jason Gardner, has been my favorite band since they released their self-titled debut with Adam Allison on lead guitar. between then and now, they've changed lead guitarist three times, from Adam to T-Fortune, to Steve Day, to their current guitarist (who I never knew his name). on Micah's last Sunday night service at Liberty, it was converted from a normal service into a concert that featured a message. Pastor Grant condensed his sermon from that morning from roughly 1hour, 30mins into 30mins. the service was solely dedicated to giving Micah a great farewell. the last song they played, which was entitled "A Song For You", is the song that I will never forget. it was the only song they played from the self-titled album, and it was the only song that brought tears to my eyes.

from Micah's musical start in No Apples For Adam, to Micah Watson Band, he's made a huge impact on many lives, including mine. to this day, I will choose either band to listen to over the likes of Hillsong United, David Crowder Band, Chris Tomlin, and other huge worship artists. God has His mighty hand over this man, and I can't thank Him enough for Micah Watson.

go to micahwatsonband.com to hear the music from the soon-to-be-released album, "Daughters & Sons", and from "Glorious Unveiling". you won't regret it

- JR

but you still came back for me, you were strong and you believed

2010-04-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

Mondays aren't my favorite, for many reasons.
1) it's the first day of the school week
2) my mom hogs the TV to watch stupid Dancing With The Stars
3) she usually wants to ask me a bajillion questions about my weekend, and I don't want to answer them

(this Monday is different though. this Monday, I got to talk to my girlfriend, and it made my night [kind of like it does every single night]. since April 4th, I know for a fact that I'm the happiest I've ever been. I feel like this is going to be a lasting relationship, and I hope and pray that it will be. but, that's beside the point)

usually, Mondays are days where we (Christians) tend to slack off because we're "too tired" or "we haven't had (insert name of favorite food/drink/snack/etc.) yet". I'll tell you right now, I've used this excuse, and sometimes on a daily basis. but, I'll tell you something else. that's the biggest cop-out of any excuse out there, regardless of the context it's used in.

a perfect example of this is something that happened to me today. my aunt came over to pick up something my mom had for her, and she's good friends with our neighbor Mitch (aka Blue from Fine Swiss Cheese). she and Blue got to talking about where they were playing tonight and whatnot. I told myself, "I should go out there and tell him that he should come watch the youth band play tomorrow night at LSM:pm" (since he's asked me a few times if I've wanted to jam and/or play for/with him, and I know he might like to see how I am at guitar and assess that for himself). but, I was already doing laundry, homework, and had begun to eat dinner. I let a slew of things get in the way of possibly planting a seed for God. at this point, I'm ashamed of myself due to this fact. however, I know that he's our neighbor for awhile, since he said he likes it here a lot.

knowing he'll be our neighbor for awhile shouldn't be my excuse for putting off what should be done. I know that he isn't a Christian (or at least a practicing one) by the way he talks when I see him. of course, he's always an extremely nice guy when I see and talk to him, but his colorful vocabulary is evidence enough for my speculation. I know that I need to tell him about God and share the Gospel with him at some point, and I know that I need to do it before he forms an opinion about me, since putting out the fact that I'm a Christian should be the first thing a person should know about me. but I know one thing: the common interest of music will allow me to connect with him.

even though I used the excuse of "I was too busy" to attempt to justify my laziness and total slack behavior, I now know that I shouldn't have. I shouldn't let the fact that he'll be here for awhile allow me to put off telling him about Jesus.

I may have used this reasoning earlier on, but listen/read/etc. closely: don't let a thing like busyness or "oh, he/she will be here for awhile, I'll wait" allow for you to not share Jesus with someone. for all we know, we could be gone tomorrow.

James 4:13-14 says it best.

"Come now, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit'— yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."

-JR

trusting in God financially

2010-04-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

if you've ever had any skepticism about tithing in the past, or doubts that God exists, I hope that this will dispel any of that.

on tuesday night, as I was leaving Cracker Barrel, this guy walks up to me and asks for some money, since his car was out of gas, he only had $1, and needed to buy a $14 gas-can to fill up his car so he could get back to Smithfield. I said to myself, "I can give a few bucks, why not?" as I was about to hand him the 3 dollar bills I planned on giving him, I saw that I had a 20. without any thought, I gave him all $23, because I know that God's blessed my mom with a secure job that allows us to have a bit extra to spare from the usual expenses of a mortgage, car payment, food, etc. after giving the money to him, I invited him to Liberty, then left.

at this point, you're probably thinking, "Jacob... $23 could've gotten you something nice. you shouldn't have given it all to him." keep reading on...

when we got home, my mom said she was going to my cousins' ball game and she'd be back before 9:30. I started my homework, sat on Facebook for awhile, and watched TV. around 9ish, my mom called me. she said (in essence) that my grandma's friend had forgotten to pay her the rest of what she owed for a basket (since my mom sells Longaberger baskets on the side). she owed my mom $23.

Luke 6:38 says, "give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you".

if we don't trust that God will see that we make it on whatever money we have left from giving, then we don't really have much trust at all. that's one of the biggest problems with Christians today; they don't tithe because they're scared that they won't have enough money when they need it. but, it IS true that we are left with less money. a speaker I've heard once said, in essence, "When Christians give 10% of their income to the local church, it doesn't mean that we'll have it given back to us, it just means we're 10% more broke." but, we still have to trust that God will help us meet our needs. the God that allowed the money from the last paycheck you received to be given is the God that deserves the first 10% of it.

now, I hope that what you take away from this isn't just "Jacob got his $23 back". I want you to take away that I trusted God with the last $23 I had in my wallet, and that He lovingly and graciously returned it to me.

you can't just rationalize or explain away how I got that money back. the only true and possible explanation is that it was a God thing.

- JR

maybe it's up with the stars, maybe it's under the sea. maybe it's not very far, maybe this is how it's supposed to be

2010-04-11T13:05:00.000-07:00

so what if it's been awhile since the last time I blogged? I can't help that I've been extremely overwhelmed by school, nor can I help the fact that I've been preparing for the mission trip last week.

speaking of that, some students from LSM went to Atlanta to do Backyard Bible Clubs/Vacation Bible Schools/whatever you want to call them in the International Village area in mainly-Hispanic apartment complexes. (you can view on-site photos here, or my free-time photos here)

even though we only did three days of these clubs, they were so much fun and brought so much excitement to the kids who were there. since it was their spring break, many kids were sitting at home, doing nothing. I know for sure that what we were doing was better for them than whatever other things could be happening. the first days, although very important, weren't as impacting as the last day, from my perspective.

the last day was centered on the presentation of the Gospel. during our first group, unfortunately, only about five kids came, and didn't really pay much attention. but, the second group had SO many more kids there. since I was the leader of the lesson for that group, I had the privilege of leading the kids in the sinners' prayer, and to my knowledge, every single one prayed with me. that being said, I have no clue how many actually meant it, but to know that a seed was planted in these kids gives me hope that later on in life, they'll understand what it means to be saved and have a personal relationship with Jesus, and truly accept Him as their Lord and Savior.

in other news, I'm no longer single. God has placed one of the most amazing girls in my life by the name of Katie Guye. even though I've known her since freshman year, I really started to get to know her the beginning of this year. but, I've liked her as more than a friend for quite some time now. I'm so very thankful to have her in my life as my girlfriend, and I can't thank God enough for how incredibly blessed I am just because of this fact.

I have videos from this past week, buuuuuuut I still need to upload and edit them. be on the look-out for some links to the finished videos in the days/weeks to come...

-JR

in between the ashes and the flames, there’s a song that burns brighter than radio waves

2010-03-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

I've been reading "The Call" by David Nasser and Brent Crowe

this book is amazing, due to the fact that in it, the authors describe certain aspects of "callings," like service, preaching, finances, leadership, etc. this book has impacted my life, with respect to the way I view what I need to do in my future ministry and how to make sure I'm keeping everything in check.

not only does the book touch on the callings, it includes interviews with some of the biggest names in the Christian world, like Matt Redman, Leeland Mooring, Louie Giglio, Francis Chan, and even more. for example, last night, I read about Francis Chan's interview and he got to his position as a pastor.

Chan's ministry basically began as him wanting his friends to be saved so they could be in heaven with him when they all die. as he moved on in his walk, he began to realize that it's more than just that; it's a lifestyle, and not an insurance policy. the interviewer gave him the prompt to speak about certain subjects, like marriage. Chan replied to "marriage" with a few major statements, but the quote he used stuck out to me. Chan quoted the great Charles Spurgeon, and said "we should love but we should love with the love which expects death." when I read this, the gears in my mind began to turn. we shouldn't just love people with agápē love that's taught by Jesus, but love them with that agápē love and know that we have to love people with that love as if they, or we, won't be here the next day, or the next hour, or even the next minute. that's how we're supposed to love. love like there's no tomorrow.

on the subject of love, God's love extends so much further than that of plain old agápē love. it's that love where He would, and could, make anything happen for our benefit. it's the love that we can only feel once we have that personal relationship with Him, once we've turned over our selfish desires and wants to Him and let Him take control of our lives. I think John Mark McMillan's "How He Loves" paints the most adequate picture of His love, because it gives the most accurate description of how He loves us. He's jealous for us (*not OF us, FOR us*). His love is so intense, it's as powerful as a hurricane.

love can't exist without a relationship, and love can't exist in that relationship unless that relationship is maintained. bottom line: don't get into a friendship/relationship with someone who you don't care about.

- JR

album review: The Hearts Of Lonely People (Isles & Glaciers)

2010-03-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile since I've blogged, but I come to you with something new: an album review! I know it's a rather unusual thing to see on a blog like mine, but this a rather good album, and it deserves the review.

Craig Owens, Vic and Mike Fuentes (Pierce The Veil), Jonny Craig (Emarosa), Matt Goddard (Chiodos), Brian Southall (The Receiving End Of Sirens, Boys Night Out), and Nick Martin come together to make up Isles & Glaciers, one of the music industry's newest super groups signed to Equal Vision Records, the same label as Chiodos/Craig Owens and Pierce The Veil.

their first EP, The Hearts Of Lonely People, is comprised of three previously released songs (Clush, Hills Like White Elephants, and Empty Sighs And Wine) and four new songs, with two being instrumental.

the tracks are as follows:
1. "Kings and Chandeliers"
2. "Hills Like White Elephants"
3. "Clush"
4. "Empty Sighs and Wine"

5. "Oceans for Backyards"
6. "Viola Lion"
7. "Cemetery Weather"

even though they're a secular band, they're still amazing artists and they have the talent that deserves a listening to.

please check them out, and see what I'm talking about. you won't be disappointed

-JR

there is a love that i know, a strength for the weak and the broken heart

2010-03-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile since my last post, I've been a tad bit busy.

but, I'm not here to talk to you about my life. I'm here to talk you about an organization that's close to my heart in more ways than one.

in 2006, Blake Mycoskie came up with a revolutionary idea: to sell shoes to everyday, financially-able people, and in turn match the shoe-purchase with another pair of shoes that are to be donated to kids in third world countries. out of this idea came TOMS© shoes.

(although my ex-girlfriend brought this company to my attention, I've detached myself from her [obviously], and now I publicize for this company without the fact of her being in my life. it makes everything better, and more personal)

$44 buys two pairs of shoes (one pair for you, and one pair for a child in a third-world country). although $44 may be a little bit pricey for some, if you can afford to pay the price (and still tithe [if you do tithe]), then I highly recommend this company to be the recipient of your $44. plus, these shoes feel like comfort that's especially designed for your foot, regardless of what kind of foot you have.

now, to give a bit of an update on my life:
I've been getting things in check with God and other aspects of my life, and it's lead me to finding the girl who I want to be with next. I feel like God's telling me that she's the one I'm supposed to be with at this point and time in my life. as far as anything deeper, I'm not sure. that's as much as I know right now.

check out the TOMS site, and consider getting a pair

-JR

your faith was strong, but you needed proof

2010-03-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

as if things couldn't be as crazy as they already are, they decide to take an even crazier thing. I won't be specific, because I don't want to call out certain events in motion, but everything that I've known as a constant has been thrown into the variable category. and if that isn't bad enough, I sort of wanted to be apart of the equation. (if any of that made sense)

all I know for certain right now is that nothing is for sure in my life. some people have left my life, and they're people I never would've thought I would lose. some people have come into my life, and they're honestly the last people I would've thought would become a part of it. I'm just glad that I still have the core group of people that I know wouldn't purposely leave my life, and that I can still confide in them about the everyday shpiel that happens.

I don't really have much else to say. my life's sort of a huge wreck right about now, whether anyone can tell or not. I think the only distraction from the chaos of everything that really works is just hanging out with friends. I'm no psychologist, or sociologist, or rocket scientist, but it's a proven method to getting one's mind off of everything that's getting someone down.

I've been trying to consume myself with music, because I know that that's my one true escape. I know with music I can express myself in a way that I've never been able to. but, unfortunately, I've been using the wrong music. I'm starting to delve into my Christian music collection, and it's been working.

earlier tonight, "How He Loves" came on my iPod as I was driving home and I took the time to listen to the lyrics, and just see what they're saying. I almost broke down crying. God loves us so much, and it's so incredible that He does, because we're straight up depraved and mundane. and the world we live in teaches that we're our own ruler, that we are our own deity? how can people think this when everything that we have is so intricately and beautifully made? I'm in awe of how much God loves us. it just straight up blows my mind.

also, Hillsong/Hillsong United writes some of the greatest modern worship songs. there are times where I just want to lift my hands and close my eyes just because I'm listening to one of their songs when I'm driving or just sitting at home. I can't help but want to model my musicianship after those guys and girls, because they've impacted millions across the earth.

I really just want this month to be over, because I know that once this month is over, I'll be going to Atlanta on the LSM mission trip. I don't want it to be just an escape from my everyday life, because I could go down the street for that or something. I want it to change me, both mentally and spiritually. I know I need to use the mission field I have here in Hampton, but there's just something different about going away on a domestic trip that makes it better, I can't really describe it.

I'm gonna close with this:
why do people get stuck in the ruts of life and settle with complacency? I'll tell you why: because they don't have the courage to achieve the dreams they have, and they want to take the easy way out of everything.

don't settle for being okay with life, because you won't like life after you're done being complacent with it, due to the fact that it'll be sucky when everything's said and done.

-JR

is there something inside me that i don't see? is there something wrong here with the way i love?

2010-03-13T16:21:00.000-08:00

I haven't been very faithful to my blog followers, unfortunately. I've been elsewhere in the real world, doing crazy things and being involved in church-related activities.

- to start off, I went to the Leadership Rocks conference at church, and made the decision to give God the stuff I haven't given Him yet, like my thoughts, my attitudes, my devotion, etc. this conference was life-changing. that's all I can really say, because anything else wouldn't be able to do it justice. Brent Crowe and David Nasser are two amazing guys who aren't ashamed of the Gospel, and what it has to say. also, Jacob "Crouton" Olds' (from Family Force 5) wife, Bethany, played fiddle for the worship band. I was definitely stoked, seeing as I've met them a few times AND use their stuff for TR2D.

- also, I've been really caught up in learning some new songs, like "Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley. it's an amazing song, definitely look it up.

- for some reason, I've been feeling this yearning for something more. I dunno what it's for though. in a way, I feel that it might be for a relationship. but, I also feel that it might be for starting something big for the cause of Christ. I'm really confused about it, and I feel kinda lost from the true meaning of it.

- I kinda feel like everyone I once was super close to is drifting away from me, because every time I try to talk to them it's either no reply or limited response, and it's not because they're busy.

- I sort of want to just get away from this place, and just live my life in a better area where I can feel better about being there. I don't feel like being in Hampton is helping me out in the long run, because I've had too much bad crap go on in my life in this place, and being here just doesn't feel right anymore.

- I need to find a group of friends where I can rely on them to not be jerks and that I know are on fire for God, because some of my friends are bad influences on my life and I don't need crap like that tearing me down.

- I haven't been able to truly find happiness in a looooong time, and I'm getting tired of "settling for second best." I dunno why I've been settling for something that isn't true happiness and joy, but I know I'm tired of it.

- it breaks my heart to see that some of the kids who everyone sees as the "righteous churchgoer who is a great Christian" are really kids who live a double-life, acting like this at church, and gossiping, complaining, and passing judgement outside the walls of the church. in some cases, these kids raise their hands when an emotional song is played and close their eyes because they "feel lead to do so." in all actuality, they're hypocrites, because they practice the very things that as Christians they're supposed to avoid. it makes me sick to know that these kids are in local Christian schools, doing all this and more there too. I know I may harp on this point, or something similar to it, but it's something important to me. why would anyone want to basically lie about how they're "good Christians who abide by the rules," yet do the exact thing they're supposed to detest?

- along with this point, I need to have a more merciful approach to these kind of people. I've been in many situations where I just want to tell it like it is, and not demonstrate God's love.

I guess you could say I'm in sort of a mixed up place in my life. I am, and I hate it. I just need some consistency in my life, and all across every part of my life.

-JR

these are my friends, this is who they have been for always

2010-03-09T16:11:00.000-08:00

as Wednesday night approaches, I'm trying to envision how well we'll do. two new songs we've only practiced on Sunday, and the fact that the sound and lights have sort of been on the fritz for the past few weeks, make for a hazy picture. but, everything always comes together in the end for us, and everything works out

so, today was pretty eventful, and it deserves a round in the random thought-catcher

so, let the mind-dump commence...

- I had to dress up for my College and Career Pathways class today. before second block started, I changed. honestly, I hate dressing up for school. I hate having to wear dress clothes from 8:20am until 3:09, but unfortunately I have to dress up once a week until the end of the year. God help me...
- in my C&CP class, the printer started acting up. of course, they asked me to take care of it. after about 10 minutes of staring at it and pressing buttons, I went to my last resort: hitting it. Conner decided to come over and turn it off and turn it back on. it worked
- the laptop skin that I had ordered a few weeks back came today. here it is:

- during jazz band, this kid wouldn't shut up about a commercial that he thought no one has ever seen before. in all actuality, everyone in the class has seen it. it's this commercial:

this kid kept on singing the ringtone in the commercial. it's the one at the end, called the "worst ringtone ever". I almost hit the kid, it was so annoying

- there's only 60-some-odd days left of school. they can't go by fast enough

- our Student Center opens soon. I can't wait! I'm super excited to be in there, and be able to have rather decent equipment to work with, soundwise. unfortunately, the college ministry might be getting the Warehouse, with it's rather bad sound system

- the Iron Man 2 trailer is epic, and I can't wait until May 7th to see it

well, I'm gonna call this mind-dump complete

- JR

the taller you are, the harder you fall

2010-03-07T18:20:00.000-08:00

right about now, I really just want to vent about how my ex pisses me off. but, I won't. it's un-Christ-like, and I fear that I would be a bit too brutally honest. but, I will say this: anyone who comes at me, pulling the "Jesus wouldn't do it, so you shouldn't either" excuse for something that I honestly have no control over or have advice guiding me in a direction to do so, should take those words and apply it to what you're trying to say, because you might just be making an idiot out of yourself

okay, done with that. I won't say anything more about that subject

I'm in need of another mind dump, because I've got toooooooo much on my mind

let the mind dump commence...

- the Oscars are on, and Steve Carell & Cameron Diaz are presenting the award for the best animated feature. winner = Up
- ewww now it's Miley Cyrus and Amanda Seyfried. Amanda I can deal with, Miley...notttt so much
- tomorrow's Monday, and I don't want to be at Bethel whatsoever. I feel like I need to get out of Hampton for a week or a year, either will work
- Jacob Dryden's friend Katie told both of us about an opportunity to play guitar all summer at a camp in Northern VA. I still haven't heard anyyyy word about it
- speaking of jobs, I really need one. I might try to get one at Aeropostale, because my good friend, and fellow tribe member!, Brittannie Hedrick works there and she told me I should apply there. well, you've sparked my interest, and I shall submit an application in the near future
- I'm tired of drama, and having to deal with people who don't understand that they need to get over themselves and grow up. names shall not appear
- this week's worship set has this epic song (All I Need Is You by Hillsong United) with an epic solo section. unfortunately, JPB doesn't want me to rip like a legend this week, but as we practiced it, it sorta turned into a jam session and I got my chance. the week I'm able to let loose, faces will be melted, and God will be glorified with it (hopefully)
- my near-father Chuck Schmuck is letting me borrow his compressor/sustain pedal, and not for guitar: for my M-Audio Axiom-25 MIDI controller that I use for recording in Garageband
- The Hurt Locker just won best screenplay. I never actually saw that
- it's going to be close-to 60˚ out this week. shorts maybe?

well, I'm done with a mind-dump. here's a picture that I'll leave you readers with

-JR

i feel the pressure building up inside my head, i feel the distance drowning me in my own sweat

2010-03-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

at a glance, Jeremiah 42 could mean absolutely nothing to a person. before I actually read it, it mean nothing important to me. before I read it, it was only the next chapter in my devotions. even after I finished reading it, it didn't mean much to me. but, a few moments after closing my bible last night, I was hit by a magnificent revelation, one that told me that Jeremiah 42 might decide my future

to give a quick run-through, Jeremiah 42 is about Jeremiah prophesying to a large group of people how they were to stay put in the land they currently were in, as apposed to going to Egypt, where they claimed it was better. if you've known me within the past three months, I've literally been torn between being a traveling evangelist and being a youth pastor. when I read this passage last night, a lightbulb instantly snapped on in my head. "could this be my answer?" was the very first thought into my head. to say the least, I'm still going to be praying about what I need to do, and that God will further reveal His plans for my life

anyways, on to my normal random thought catcher post. I haven't done one of these in awhile, and my mind is rather filled to the brim

let the mind-dump commence...

- I've had a feeling all day that I was supposed to do something tonight, but I never remembered what it was. if I was supposed to do something with you today, please forgive me!
- Four Year Strong's new album is EPIC, to say the least. I would say go and get it, but it hasn't been released. however, I have sources that allowed me to get it in advance
- I got NHL 2K10 tonight for Wii, and as I was playing it, I was wondering why it was so hard to beat the other team. after I lost miserably, I realized that the difficulty was on "Pro". I no longer wonder why the Pittsburgh Penguins creamed my team (Washington Capitols)
- today, during first block, Trent came into my class and said that in the auditorium, no sound was being pumped through the system. being the soundguy that I am, I went to go properly diagnose and treat the problem. the problem? Trent took off the adapter that allowed the cord that sound was being transmitted through to hook up to the soundboard. it took Trent 20 minutes to attempt to connect the cord to the board with failure. me? it took me around 8 minutes, with the time it took to walk to and from class added in there
- in first block once again, my friend Conner put a few Fight Club quotes in an essay he was writing. I high-fived him, then finished mine
- I just watched Jake's video about his "dance party" that went "WRONG". I laughed heartily, and made myself a promise not to go on chatroullette
- I really need to change the strings on my Telecoustic, because I have 5 acoustic strings on it, plus an electric string. it doesn't sound good at all
- also, I really need a sustain pedal for my M-Audio Axiom-25. oh, and some of these:

I think it's safe to say that the mind dump is complete

-JR

so come sweet fire of mercy, cover up my skin. warm me like the sun, won't you let me in?

2010-03-04T15:57:00.000-08:00

the WEIRDEST thing happened at church last night. when I walked into the warehouse to set up my gear and get things rolling with recording, John-Paul said that he couldn't get any sound to transmit from his laptop to the monitors. to begin with, everything was being sent down the line (the sound was registering on the soundboard), but nothing was coming out of the monitors. it turns out that the amps weren't on. then, when everything was on and supposedly working, nothing was being sent down the line, even though the music was playing. I figured out that the "mute" feature in System Preferences was engaged, and that was the problem.

then, after we had finished playing, I went to check on the recorded sound. Ben told me that the only thing that was showing up on the screen was a flat line, which normally indicates the presence of nothing. so, I pulled some past logic and went into System Preferences. the "mute" feature was also engaged.

however, in both instances, neither John-Paul nor I voluntarily muted the sound. in John-Paul's case, he actually has a reasonable explanation. with mine, there's none whatsoever. I had checked everything moments before we went onstage.

with that, I bring you today's post. I believe that the Devil was at work last night, and he didn't want the service being recorded and possibly transmitted throughout the band, or the ministry, or even the world. I know for a fact that he was mad about us having a service to begin with.

this just goes to show that Satan can work anywhere. there's even instances where God allowed Satan to tempt people (the whole book of Job). but, we can't just go on allowing these things to be normal occurrences. we might possibly be in a period of spiritual warfare as a ministry as a whole. it's more than likely, seeing as our Student Center will be open in less than two months. in fact, it's the only feasible thing I can put my finger on as the cause of this crazy mishap.

but, like John-Paul has been talking about in his sermons, impossible things can happen. I'm gonna be honest, stuff like what happened with John-Paul's and my laptop is darn near impossible. but, it's stuff like that that will hold us back from carrying out what God has planned in our lives. it's stuff like that that will allow for Satan to weasel his way in and mess up what God's allowed us to do for His glory.

we CAN'T let stuff like that happen and be looked over. if any spiritual warfare occurs in life, we can't just pass it off as something crazy, or some fluke of nature that's left "unexplained." if anything like that happens, go to battle with the armor of God ⁽¹³Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.¹⁴Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ¹⁶In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God) (Ephesians 6:13-17).

so what will you do when you're in spiritual warfare?

anyways, this weekend the Genesis band is putting in Avion personal monitor mixing systems (basically, they're taking out the big speakers that sit on the stage in the gym, and replacing them with things that they can adjust the volume of what they hear in personal headphones). here's a pic (dunno if this is the exact one):

Steve Day, their fearless, face-melting leader, told me that the band might need a bassist to stand in for Chuck Schmuck, due to his absence for a family-related circumstance. so, in summary, I'm going to be one of the first to play with/ adjust these beauties. I feel very honored to have this ability, and I truly thank these guys for allowing me to practice with them on Wednesday nights and join them for various get-togethers (even though I haven't actually been available to go to them).

by the way, support Steve's Graphic Design side-project by going here, checking out his and his partner's portfolios, and possibly even requesting designs for webpages and blogs. you won't be sorry, it's great work!

-JR

today's the day that we start this war, make up your mind and decide what you are fighting for

2010-03-03T11:04:00.000-08:00

another snow day??? what???

as I woke up around 7:30, I began to panic. I burst out of my room, frantically getting ready as I ran through the house. my mom began to laugh at me, saying "there's no school today." I slowly made my way back to my room, and went back to sleep

I dunno about you, but even though I'm loving this whole snow day idea, I'm tired of missing all this school. truth be told, I totally didn't wanna take my writing SOL today, because I'm not prepared to write an essay about whatever I'm told to. plus, my head is still all stopped up with mucus and sinus crap. but I'm still glad we had no school today

everyone's been talking about, "you're gonna be miserable having to be in school an extra week." well, regardless of the fact that I might have to see the inside of Bethel for an extra week or so, I know one thing: I don't have to see them now. these random breaks certainly do split up the monotony of being in four classes and having to sit in uncomfortable seats from 8:20am to 3:09pm. so if anyone has any complaints about this whole "missing school" thing, just think: would you rather be in school, or sitting at home?

I shall leave you with this picture

-JR

so mr. spaceman, what do you think of earth?

2010-03-01T18:51:00.000-08:00

there's always those things that send you back to old memories of times/situations you wish you could have back. however unmanly this may sound, The Bachelor does that for me. yeah, so what? for some reason, it reminds me of the good parts of old relationships that I want to bring back into my life, but with a different person (I have someone in mind that I think it'd be great to date, but it's a rather fresh idea to me, so I won't try and rush things. all I can say is that feeling this feeling actually feels righter than right)

while I'm on the subject of relationships, I think I'll talk about them. it's been exactly four months to the day since I've been in one, but if you know me well, I've been in my fair share to gather enough insight about them

insight #1
- relationships in general are confusing. you think it's great, but in fact it could be the exact opposite. one minute everything could be seeming like it'll be for life, but then there's that moment when you know you have it allllll wrong and it's over, just like that

insight #2
- guys, don't EVER say that you have girls figured out. you don't. you never will, and you never have figured them out. in all actuality, some girls don't even have girls figured out. I DO know one thing: when they say "it's fine," it's really not. but, when they say "it's okay," then it really is okay

insight #3
- never stop trying. never

insight #4
- the only relationship that anyone should ever be truly concerned about is his or her relationship with God. because once everything's in order there, everything else can be in order

unfortunately, that's all I've actually got. but, due to me being a guy, I don't actually know all that much about relationships

- JR

as sure as the floor 'neath my toes, and somehow not surprised that i was superimposed

2010-02-27T06:33:00.000-08:00

aaaaah ring dance, the only junior-exclusive dance a school (usually) has. times have definitely changed from "back in the day," according to some of the parents

back in the day, they didn't have "bumping" and "grinding". they didn't have rap, or DJ's. they didn't have lots of other things. but, they had live bands. they had multiple couples dances. they had all sorts of great things that have sorta died out in our culture

nonetheless, I had an amazing time. I can honestly say that I had the best, and the best looking, date in that whole ballroom. I wouldn't trade any of it for anything

well, I would trade out a trashed throat for a non-trashed throat, because this morning when I woke up, it felt like my throat was on fiiiiiiiire

if you know me, I either want to, or do, relate stuff back to life and Christianity. so here we go...

don't trade anything for what you have going on for you. it may be for a better life, or for something else. but don't throw away a good thing that you have going on for something that you don't know much about it. it's like with cars (stay with me here). people who drive new cars right off the line tend to gain knowledge about over the years that they drive it. then, if they trade it in and want a used car, they usually don't know anything about this used car

driving a new car from day one and life can be closely related. everyday you learn something new about life, and everyday you drive the new car you learn something new about it. don't try and trade up for the next best thing in life, because it may not be best for you

- JR

heal my heart and make it clean, open up my eyes to the things unseen

2010-02-24T19:23:00.000-08:00

first, the US narrowly beat Canada. next, Canada crushes Germany. now, Canada beats Russia? where is the whole "Russia's the best hockey team in the world" thing?

I dunno, but I'm still rooting for the US to win Gold

tonight during the band's pre-service prayer, Meredith mentioned something pertaining to the song "Potter's Wheel." she quoted Jeremiah 18 ( 2 “Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will let you hear my words.” 3 So I went down to the potter's house, and there he was working at his wheel. 4 And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter's hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do. 5 Then the word of the Lord came to me: 6 “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done? declares the Lord. Behold, like the clay in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel. 7 If at any time I declare concerning a nation or a kingdom, that I will pluck up and break down and destroy it, 8 and if that nation, concerning which I have spoken, turns from its evil, I will relent of the disaster that I intended to do to it. 9 And if at any time I declare concerning a nation or a kingdom that I will build and plant it, 10 and if it does evil in my sight, not listening to my voice, then I will relent of the good that I had intended to do to it.)

I began to think about the true meaning of this song. God can just be like, "oh you aren't pleasing me" and just break us and push us on the ground. and if we please Him, He'll do good for us. it's hard for me to comprehend, but it IS God, and we aren't supposed to know everything about God. that being said, I'm glad I can't comprehend it. it keeps me grounded

- JR

we live within a world that fails, with pain we can't control

2010-02-23T16:39:00.000-08:00

there's just something about people not being their real selves (acting fake) that just makes me so mad, I don't understand it. it might be that they're living the lie of making themselves out to be something they aren't, and forcing people to believe it. or, it might be that they aren't pursuing Christ with everything they have, and being what some call a "luke-warm" Christian. it might even be that they are one way around one group of people, and another way around a different group. or, possibly, they act like a Christian in private, but once they cross the threshold of their school doors/work doors/etc., it's like they're saying "Jesus who?"

I know I may be repeating myself on a few points, but it's something that's close to my heart, and something I want to stop across the area, across the state, across the nation, across the world. if anyone knew me between 6th and 9th grade, they would understand why. in those years, I would be a powerful, influential Christian on one side of the church door, but just another kid on the opposite side (you can guess which side of the door is which). 7th grade came along, and I did truly become a Christian, but unfortunately everything died out within a week. truth be told, I truly truly meant it, and I know that that day God really changed me. the fact of the matter is, I didn't feel that change. I didn't feel it until the summer after my freshman year of high school. by then, I had been caught up in the world of profanity, in the world of pornography, in the world of lying, in the world of cheating myself out of the fact that I couldn't go about any longer with this stupid lifestyle. and everything didn't end there. yeah, I did clean up my act along the lines of that stuff, but then some more crap crept into my life, and it truly held me back from being the best Christian and being the best creation that I possibly could.

if you're reading this, and you say, "that sounds like me. I do all that stuff." or you say, "that sounds nothing like me, Jacob. I never got into that stuff." or, you could say something completely different. I don't know what's going on in your mind right now. but, God does. in fact, He's the one providing you with all these thoughts. you know that last breath you took? God allowed you to do that. that last song you listened to? God allowed that artist to create it. that last text message you sent? yep, that was God's working too. you see, regardless of what you do in your life, God makes everything happen.

"how do I know this?" you may ask...

it's all found in the Bible, aka God's Word, aka God's 66-book love letter. it covers everything that you have going for you. love problems? it's in there. you want that new phone your best friend has? there's something in there about that, it's written on a stone tablet and everything. don't know about the future? it's in there too. what's going to happen in the end? if you flip to the last book, you'll get some answers, and you can look through the rest of it too. one important thing in this book, though, is answered by the question, "what happens when I die?" there's ultimately two answers. answer one: you go to Hell. yeah, a little harsh, but honestly, the truth can hurt. or answer two: you go to Heaven. the only way you can get the answer choice #2 is by accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, believing that He rose from the grave on the third day, and confessing your sins, and confessing that you can't do it alone. otherwise, you're stuck with answer choice #1.

what can you take from this post? well, I hope that you'll take many things from it. but, my main point is this: don't be a fake. be the person that you really are, and don't put on a facade of a life you want to live, but can't because it isn't yours.

don't waste your life living someone else's in place of yours. don't waste your life living without God

- JR

recapping CFAW

2010-02-22T18:29:00.000-08:00

it's only been one day, and I already miss being up at Liberty University. honestly, it was so much better than being in Hampton. but, I have barely a year and a half 'til I'm there, so it's no worries

anyways, yesterday at lunch at Texas Roadhouse, we (Jake, me, my mom, and my mom's friends) had a rather flirtacious waitress. I dunno if that's just her personality or not, but the fact is that she still seemed to be flirting with us two guys. it was rather comical, because my mom's friend would always say how us guys got all the attention from her instead of them being helped and getting refills. I think I counted that on 4 occurrences, my drink was refilled immediately. I think my mom's friend only got one refill. I still don't know how to call it....

but, regardless of the missing-the-campus and a "different" waitress, my weekend was amazing. going throughout the day-to-day flow of classes with Jake, going to convo, games, and student activities, and participating in the crazy shenanigans that are synonymous with being friends with him, in some aspects, I felt like a college kid. the only differences between an LU student and me are 1) the hair length, and 2) the facial hair. I'm working on both (growing facial hair, and [hopefully] easing back into short hair). buuuut, like I said earlier, I have a year and a half

maybe by then I'll develop better blogging skills...

with that, I'll leave you to view my photo-documentation of the weekend here

- JR

draw the line, all this time you were just drawing mine

2010-02-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

day one of CFAW = done

this is by far the best college experience I've ever had. rather laid-back, slow-paced day, good classes to sit in on, hanging out with crouterface (well, that was part of last year's experience too...), cool people, AND the fact that I didn't have that obvious CFAW-er look (blank look on face, not knowing where to go, nothing but a folder in hand, aimless wandering across campus, visible wristband). the only thing that gave away my CFAW-er status, according to Jake's friend Ben, was my long hair (which is a no-go for an LU student). he added that if not for that fact, he wouldn't have thought I was a CFAW-er. that's good...right?

during Convocation today, Johnnie Moore, Jr. spoke about missions, wrapping up the college's Missions Emphasis week. as he said these words, he also said, "but I'm not wrapping up missions." he gave some tips to the CFAW-ers, such as "high school guys, college girls don't think you're hot" and "high school girls, don't be fooled by a guy sitting on a blanket with a guitar 'worshipping to himself'. that's not worshipping, he's not a musician, he's not cute, and he's weird. RUN AWAY." also, 2(?) people (not sure if they were CFAW-ers or students) gave their lives to Christ. it was so amazing to see people actually professing their need in front of close to 15,000 people.

would you stand in front of your whole student body to say "hey, I'm a Christian"? would you stand in front of your youth group and say "hey, I'm a Christian"? would you stand in front of your family and say "hey, I'm a Christian"? would you stand in front of your friends and say "hey, I'm a Christian"? or would you be too scared/nervous/proud/etc. to do that?

don't be ashamed. the fact that you're a Christian should be the first thing someone knows about you, not a side-note, or one of the last things they find out (granted, there are special circumstances, like if you weren't a Christian when you met the person)


so I'll stand
with arms high and heart abandoned
in awe of the One who gave it all

so I'll stand
my soul Lord to You surrendered
all I am is Yours

- JR

teh snow, it flexez

2010-02-18T18:26:00.000-08:00

aaaahhhhh Thursday nights. such a glorious night. what's even better?

SITTING NEXT TO JAKE HOLLAND IN SNOWFLEX. THAT's what's even better

after the 3.5 hour drive up to Lynchburg, the CFAW weekend has commenced. staying with Jake is going to be the highlight of this weekend, most likely, besides the possibility of getting a "Beat Coastal" shirt, which is a thing of LU legend. buuuut, hopefully this weekend will further cement my aspirations to become a Liberty Flame in a year and a half. woah........I only have 1.5 years of high school left. DANG

but anyways, this weekend will contain maaaaaaaaaaany more posts (well, probably another 3 or 4)

I shall leave you with a picture of the Snowflex

- JR

random thought catcher - 2/16/10

2010-02-16T16:54:00.000-08:00

welcome to another random thought-catcher. I'm your host, Jacob.

okay, no this isn't a talk-show. this isn't a place where I go off about stupid things (although, my posts normally are centered around a certain topic). nor do I try to show partiality to anyone or thing. I'm just throwing my thoughts out there because, honestly, I have a brain-overload and I just need to clear my head of all the crap of the day

so, let the mind dump begin...

- someone told me today that people who blog are "either douches or people who say douchey things." well, news flash: that's not true, at least in my eyes. everyone's entitled to their own opinions, and the people who blog just so happen to put theirs out in the open
- the same someone, during an epic man-hug, hit me in the kidney. that's all that needs to be said
- wow, George Costanza just started making out with his secretary on Seinfeld. ewwww...
- being the only student who's authorized to touch the soundboard comes with its downfalls: every time there's something with the drama department that needs sound, guess who has to be there? me. but having the privilege to be the only kid who has permission to touch the soundboard is a huuuuuge honor, so I have no place to be a naysayer
- lately, the devil's been throwing "loneliness" into my life. due to this, I've felt alone, at least in the sense of a platonic relationship
- The Office has a way to make my day, hence the fact that I love it
- I just found out that Cox Communications® is making Cox Wireless. hmmm...
- this weekend is just what I need; it's Liberty University's CFAW (college for a weekend), and I'm gonna be there. I can kiss Hampton Roads goodbye for the weekend. like I said, just what I need
- God's brought some great friends back into my life this past week or so, but taken out some who I actually have been growing fond of. looks like that was a bad call on my part
- I need to change the way I do things in my life, because the way I prioritize my life isn't the way it needs to be layered out
- I've come to realize even more: Mac > PC

mind dump, completeeee

- JR

in this world of "news," i found nothing new

2010-02-14T10:41:00.000-08:00

what's the one day of the year that love is the most obvious?

yep, it's Valentine's Day, February 14th. I, honestly, think it's a waste a good day

why, you may ask?

- first of all, it's a pagan holiday. that should be reason enough for it to be a waste

but, if that didn't give you enough reason to think the same way as me...

- the next is that it's a sucky day to be single, just like in my place. I'll admit it: I miss being in a relationship (just not the one that I was last in). it sucks not being able to have a girlfriend to take out and just be together with them. fortunately, I have great friends, both guys and girls, that I can just chill with anywhere and anytime

- next, when you're buying stuff for that "special someone," that means money is going out of your pocket and into something that will either last for about 30 minutes (i.e., chocolate) or for a couple days (i.e., flowers). there are some exceptions, like with stuffed animals and cards, but for the most part, the former are given more times than none. don't get me wrong, I love chocolate, but once it's gone, it's gone. plus, I use money for better things, like music and other food items with nutritional value

- the word "love" has been thrown around too much, and Valentine's Day is a special day where you can say "I love you" and it be super special. listen up now, love ISN'T something to be very loose with. love, simply, is defined as "a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person" or "a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend." love is much bigger than a simple display of affection. to love someone is to want the best for them, regardless of what happens to you, and to try and do what's best for them, no matter what the outcome may be. now, you may say, but Jacob, you were dumped by a girl who thought it was best for them to not be with you. does that mean that you still love her? in all honesty, I loved her. but, the keyword is loved. I feel no connection to her at this point and time, and I have no desire to have any connection with her from November 1st, 2009 until my last day of life. God may have different plans, but I personally don't ever want to come into contact with her, simple as that. the only way someone can love is if they love God, because God is love. if someone says they love someone, and they don't know God, they don't truly love the person

- on Valentine's Day, life in general is thrown out of perspective, and there's a sort of "daze" that everyone who has a "valentine" is in. get real, any day that you have to spend with someone is special, and Valentine's Day is no excuse to get excited about it

if you aren't convinced with my argument, then oh well. have a swell day with your "valentine," and don't do anything that you can get into trouble with

- JR

the ocean breathes salty, won't you carry it in?

2010-02-13T17:08:00.000-08:00

Dear John + seeing it for the second time ≠ a good idea

today, I was asked to see Dear John. my friend, oblivious to the fact that I've seen it before, was "dying to see it because it looked so good." what was I thinking about that situation? you've gotta be kidding me. buuuut, you're pretty, and you're really cool, so I'll go with you.

2 hours later, I started to second-guess my decision

but, that's not what this post is about

I've come here to, regretfully, announce the termination of "The J-Ray Chronicles."

at least on a regular basis. maaaaybe there might be some special posts from d-now or on location sort-of things. you never know...

The J-Ray Chronicles was pretty much just me talking about everyday life, thrown in with some viewer questions. the viewers consisted of my (at the time) girlfriend (now ex), my ex-girlfriend, and probably about 3 other people. it's no Whoadays Of Our Lives, but it was prettyyy fun to vent and rant. buuut, that's what this blog is for nowadays :)

if you haven't noticed, my titles have been rather off-subject, and pretty out-of-the-blue. most of them have been song lyrics, and mainly I've just been too lazy to actually think of a title with relevance to my post. well, not to burst your bubble or anything, it's gonna be that way 'til I can think of a relevant title. yeah yeah, don't hate

i believe i'll leave you with this picture

- JR

i've got troubled thoughts, and the self-esteem to match

2010-02-12T13:51:00.000-08:00

woah...where am I??? is this...is this...a blog???

oh yeah...

I forgot, that's what I do: I blog

please forgive me for my absence, my time has been taken up by other ventures of chaos/excitement/school crap

so, I most recently discovered the 32 ounce Vitamin Water®. it's pretty much ah-mazing. that's I'm drinking right now

aaaaand I've most recently re-discovered Manchester Orchestra. such a good band, I like listening to them

so, this past week at church, the service was AMAZING. it wasn't like any other service; instead of worship then message, it was game, worship, message, worship, then prayer. God was there, there's no denying it

anyways, I've had a few days off from blogging (sorry!!!), but I'll try to be more consistent with it!

- JR

now this is a story all about how...

2010-02-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

earlier today, well, more like about 30 minutes ago, I was listening to K-Love, and I heard probably the most uplifting/ most out-of-the-blue message I've ever heard

they played "Gone" by Switchfoot, then began to talk about how Michael Vick is getting back into Christ. then, Scott, one of the co-anchors, said something extremely profound, from Rick Warren's "Purpose Driven Life"

Abraham was old, Jacob was insecure, Leah was unattrractive, Joseph was abused, Moses stuttered, Gideon was poor, Samson was codependent, Rahab was immoral, David had an affair and all kinds of family problems, Elijah was suicidal, Jeremiah was depressed, Jonah was reluctant, Naomi was a widow, John the Baptist was eccentric to say the least, Peter was impulsive and hot-tempered, Martha worried a lot, the Samaritan woman had several failed marriages, Zacchaecus was unpopular, Thomas had doubts, Paul had poor health, and Timothy was timid. That is quite a variety of misfits, but God used each of them in his service. He will use you, too, if you stop making excuses.

God can use you, and He will, you just gotta give Him your everything

anyways, on a lighter note, since I'm the only capable techie (besides my buddy Adam Jones) in the school, being backstage in the auditorium has become rather normal for me. and since it's talent show time, I might as well set a chair back there and take up residence. well, today, one of Ms. Scott's/ Mrs. Bourne's (whatever you wanna call her) "lackies," for lack of better wording, came up to me and wanted me to put on "Baby Got Back" so that she and the other lackie could dance to it. I jokingly said, "how about this? me, you, Kayra, and Trent, let's alll dance to it." about 3 minutes later, I'm on the stage, dancing like there was a crazy party going on.

after we finished, Ms. Scott said, "we've found our intermission performance." so yeah, I'm dancing. in the talent show. with three other people.

what have I gotten myself into?????????

I guess we'll find out during the talent show. God help us...

- JR

random thought catcher - 2/8/10

2010-02-08T14:45:00.000-08:00

ah, another Monday, which just so happens to be my least favorite day of the week...

time to put on these guys
guess who they are from the album covers

okay, this MUST give it away...

yep, 'tis Four Year Strong....yet again!

I probably should be doing my homework, but I can find time to do it later. it's been sort of awhile since I've wrote something here, due to my busy schedule this weekend

but, on the day after the Super Bowl, I come here to bring you my random thought catcher of the day!

let the mind dump begin...

- last night's commercials weren't as good as last year's

- I think Vitamin Water's my favorite water, even though it's not actually water

- I had a dream last night that I had some weird disease, but my mom woke me up before I could finish the dream

- I cried during Dear John. so what?

- school seemed rather easy today. hopefully this pattern will continue

- I eat Chickfila entirely too much

- I love Macbooks

- I love lamp. oh wait, I'm not Brick. nevermind...

- Paranormal State is all new tonight, and they're investigating the Jersey Devil

- I'm easily distracted. writing this should only take about 10 minutes. it's been 15 minutes so far...

- I have 7 months until my 17th birthday

- there are many perks to being the school's only trusted techie, like being the only one, but there are the downsides, like having to be at every single performance to run lights and/or sound

well, mind dump complete!

- JR

just because i'm losing, doesn't mean i'm lost

2010-02-06T14:43:00.000-08:00

snow + boredom + mind full of thoughts = this post!

albeit, this ISN'T another thought catcher post. this one actually has some logic to it

earlier, I was listening to one of Brand New's most, or more, popular songs, entitled "Jesus Christ." every time I hear this song, for some reason, I begin to think, "will I think along the lines of this song?"

the lyrics:

Jesus Christ, that's a pretty face
The kind you'd find on someone that could save
If they don't put me away
It’ll be a miracle

Do you believe you're missing out?
That everything good is happening somewhere else
But with nobody in your bed
The night is hard to get through

And I will die all alone
And when I arrive I won’t know anyone

Well, Jesus Christ, I’m alone again
So what did you do those three days you were dead?
Because this problem's gonna last
More than the weekend

Well, Jesus Christ I’m not scared to die
I’m a little bit scared of what comes after
Do I get the gold chariot
Do I float through the ceiling

Do I divide and fall apart
Cause my bright is too slight to hold back all my dark
This ship went down in sight of land
And at the gates does Thomas ask to see my hands?

I know you'll come in the night like a thief
But I’ve had some time alone to hone my lying technique
I know you think that I’m someone you can trust
But I’m scared I’ll get scared and I swear I’ll try to nail you back up
(everyone now)
So do you think that we could work out a psalm
So I’ll know it's you and that it's over so I won't even try
I know you'll come for the people like me
But we all got wood and nails,
And talk dirt at hating factories
But, we all got wood and nails
And talk dirt at hating factories
Yeah, we all got wood and nails
And we sleep inside of this machine

in a way, I feel like the song is sort of doubting God (correct me if I'm wrong, because I might just be), and also trying to figure out how everything is going to happen in life. like I said, I could be completely off, but that's just my interpretation

buuuut, that's all of that for now. onto something more lighthearted...

today, 25 years ago, this dude was born or something I think. he's apparently been my camp leader since 4th grade, and my d-now leader since 7th grade. I've heard he's pretty legit about everything he does, and he's supposedly the coolest person I've ever met. oh, and according to Ben Trueblood, somehow I have a man-crush on him. plus, someone said he's my brother...

oh yeah, and his name's like Jake Holland or something

OH YEAH! I know him

happy birthday big brothaaaa!

- JR

this, that, and the other

2010-02-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

'tis the weekend! although the school week was very short, the weekend was still welcomed regardless. so, since I'm sitting at home, watching Hard Rock Calling and doing nothing, this is what I do: blog

comfort? check

Vitamin Water? check

blasting TV volume? uh oh...*turns up volume* check

this man playing?

check!

okay, everything's perfect for blogging

I must say, Dave has his signature thing, just like how John Mayer has his weird mouth movements, and Micah Watson has his nostril-flaring and eyebrow-raising. but, for Dave Matthews, he dances very uniquely, with inward-pointed feet and hopping around like the greatest guitarist in the world.

not trying to burst your bubble, Dave, but I think John Mayer has the whole "greatest guitarist in the world" thing covered. (at least in modern day)

anyways, back to the post

today, I went to get my hardcopy license, and pretty much just walked in, sat down, listened to a judge talk, get my license, then walk out. prettttttttttty simple. and, the best part about this is that I got to just go home. didn't have to go back to school or anything

oh man, Springsteen's playing now. I think I might just fast-forward through this...

straight to commercial, dagnabbit...

oooo, Ben Harper & Relentless7's playing now. yessss

okay, anyways, after all that, I took a bit of a nap, and what did I wake up to? straight up flurries. now it's starting to stick. sorta bittersweet though, because I don't wanna stay inside all weekend and have a repeat of last weekend, but I love the snow.

regardless, I've had the subject of "grace" on my mind today. we wouldn't have a peaceful world without grace, and mercy of course, because God would've unleashed every single ounce of his power on us, and well, that would've turned out pretty darn bad. also, our parents wouldn't be loving without being gracious, and merciful. when it comes down to it, there can't be grace without mercy. because God was merciful, He showed His grace to His people, us. grace, in the Christian sense, is "unmerited favor from God". it can also be defined as "the outpouring of the love of God on humanity"

see, God loves us, regardless of whatever you think of God. He's loving, and He's a God of mercy, and a God of wrath

if God is a God of mercy and of wrath, why was He only wrathful in the Old Testament?

good question. because the Old Testament peoples weren't smart and decided to worship false idols/gods, and didn't heed God's warnings about how He was going to pour out His unrelented fury on them

but why wasn't God wrathful in the New Testament?

another good question. God had sent his son, Jesus, to take all the crap of the world, both from the OT and NT times, and let everyone be washed clean of their sins. plus, the NT peoples weren't total idiots like the OT peoples and actually worshipped God. unfortunately, some churches, like the ones at Laodicea, Philadelphia, Sardis, Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira, DID worship God, but weren't truly on fire for Him. they were kind of like the Christians I described a couple posts ago

praise God for His grace, His mercy, and even His wrath. because it's all from the one and only living God, who knows how to take care of you

- JR

simply, "="

2010-02-04T18:01:00.000-08:00

as I have Four Year Strong blasting into my ears, I say, "let's do this thing."

so, time to blog!

as I read my brother/fellow R2D-er Jake's past few posts about complaining, my mind flashes back to a few summers ago at camp in Snowshoe, West Virginia...

Ben was about to dismiss us to our group times before lunch, and these words still ring in my head (paraphrased):

"don't complain this week because something didn't go your way, or someone got mad at you, or you wanna go home, or anything at all happened. you're saying that you're not liking the way God did something, and going against God is a sin."

take a second to think about that...

if you're a Christian (not one like I talked about a few posts ago, but one who's legit about their faith), and you complain, what's the use? because I didn't like the way something happened, Jacob. so? it might just be safe to say that complaining does nothing, except maybe show that you whine. just sayin'...

complaining = going against God = not agreeing with His supreme and divine decision

He made you, sent His son to die on the cross for your sins, and has a place in eternal paradise for you. yeahhhh, good luck with the whole "complaining" thing...

- JR

schoool. it sucks

2010-02-03T19:28:00.000-08:00

after 6 days of laying around the house, the school system just so happens to be getting bored with letting us stay home and making us actually go to school tomorrow. it's sort of a bittersweet feeling; I want to hang out with my friends, but I don't want to do the actual school thing.

buuuut, I'm holding out for a 2-hour delay, since Newport News has a 2-hour delay. but, I don't think I'll know until tomorrow morning, unfortunately.

anyways, tonight's service was sort of a "blessing in disguise." in a way it was, at least. everything went super well, but mixed up during some parts. regardless, it worked.

oh, and Jason Gardner, Micah Watson Band's drummer, works at Papa John's now, since he just delivered my pizza. they will now receive my business a LOT

- JR

random thought catcher - 2/3/10

2010-02-03T07:38:00.000-08:00

in typical fashion, I'm feeling random this morning. plus, I had some epic, and not to mention RANDOM, dreams last night. let the mind dump beginnnnnn...

- I dreamt that I had invited Paramore to my birthday party, and they actually showed up. during the party, unfortunately, Hayley didn't hang out with me that much :( buuut I was hanging out with my best friends the whole time, so it kind of evened out
- I woke up from this dream, trying to recreate the dream the way I wanted it to go, but I failed
- I went back to sleep, and dreamt that I had successfully booked Mae for the Fall Kickoff, and that I had the honor of introducing them, and ultimately dancing on stage with them
- John Mayer is an amazing artist, regardless of what anyone thinks. anyone whose voice is the same live as it is recorded is talented, and add the fact that he's ripping on lead guitar. that's what I call an amazing artist
- on a look-a-like-finder website, I was told that I looked like Lindsay Lohan, Jane Fonda, and Justin Chatwin. weird...
- tonight's worship set is going to be amazing, I can feel it

if you aren't busy tonight, COME TO LIBERTY BAPTIST CHURCH AT 6:15pm FOR OUR YOUTH SERVICE!

- for some reason, Chickfila tasted extremely good this morning
- ice ≠ good for driving
- when I press the "option" key on my Mac, it makes sweet symbols pop up
- å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω
- see?
- I think it'd be cool to have a keytar. they have one in Musician's Friend, but it's close to $1000. oh well
- Hillsong United needs to come to Wave Church soon, because I really want to see them live
- there's a Chuck E. Cheese ball sitting in my room from when Tim, Chris, Jake, and I went there back in December of '08
- my new neighbor is the bassist for Fine Swiss Cheese. they're pretty good for a cover band
- I've been thinking about doing a medley of songs for an individual performance at the LSM talent show at camp. I have a few songs in mind, and it seems like it's gonna be awesome

mind dump complete

- JR

this ain't your typical locomotive

2010-02-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

you might be thinking, why did Jacob post the picture of Thomas the Train engine? aren't we a little old for trains?

you can never be too old for trains. but, that's not the point. the point is below, so continue reading!

right about now, this site is my main focus

yes, 'tis the school closings. so far, Newport News and York County Public Schools have off tomorrow, Wednesday the 3rd. so, I began thinking, and my thinking bought me a round trip ticket for the Logic Train

let's begin, shall we?

- okay, so Newport News has tomorrow off
- Hampton's streets, mainly residential, are worse than Newport News' streets
- aaaaand York County has tomorrow off
- unfortunately, their roads aren't as good as ours, conditions-wise

*train stops at the school closings website*

well, it doesn't say anything. conductor, take me to the HCS website!

*train continues to HCS website*

"Due to weather all schools are closed Feb. 3."

*train stops back at point of origin: Jacob's brain*

welllll, it's official: I'm off yet again.

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

just sayin', don't be surprised if another thought catcher appears tomorrow morning...

- JR

p.s. and I still haven't found my celeb look-a-like
anyone who wants to help: please do

random thought catcher - 2/2/10

2010-02-02T07:18:00.000-08:00

if you remember correctly, my earlier post yesterday included italics for random thoughts.

well, welcome to random thoughts, v2.0.

it's a fuuuuulll post dedicated to my random thoughts. kind of like Terrace 'TC' Crawford's "Manic Monday Minute," or like Jake Holland's sometimes random posts (but the majority of his are actually structured). so, here goes nothin':

- there's mall lunch today for LSM at 12:15. I'll be there, you should be there too
- I've been on a worship music kick lately. It's been pretty awesome, to say the least
- I haven't been to school in 5 days. I'm starting to forget my teachers' names, and my classroom locations...
- I just realized that the lead guitarist of Hillsong United speeds up the tempo during his solo on "From The Inside Out." weird
- I might just have enough shirts to last me for the next few weeks, if I don't wash shirts...yeah, like that's gonna happen
- I STILL haven't worn some of jake's old shirts that he gave to me
- I've been doing my daily devotion using Jeremiah, and so far, God isn't too happy with the nation of Israel, and Israel isn't too happy with Jeremiah
- my alarm clock is 6 minutes fast. woah...
- I have to get a filling this Thursday. crap...
- I get my hard-copy license on Friday, if the court system is open
- I've had cabin fever since Saturday. I can't wait to get out of this house
- my room has been so cold the past few nights, I've slept with my Snuggie™on, layered another blanket on top, and then my top layer (which is an unzipped sleeping bag. yeah, so what?)
- my street is finally starting to look like normal, but not really
- why does February, which is "Black History Month", have two holidays that celebrate white people?

time to put the random thought catcher down, I might be back later to blog about something with a real point

but who knows?

- JR

the post with no name

2010-02-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

yeah, yeah, yeah, it's the second post of the day. so what?

this isn't just any post. I need to vent, but I'm not going to. that's not something that exhibits a Christ-like attitude. yeah, I'm guilty of it, and you probably are too.

instead, I wanna talk to all the people who call themselves Christians, but have no evidence of Christ in their lives. I won't name any names, because this isn't directed towards a specific person or group of people. you know if you are or not, and that's that.

you need to check yourself before you wreck yourself.

simply, these people are "fake," for lack of better wording. their outward actions of living as a "Christian" don't match up the inward condition of their hearts. also, people who are like this could be called "unconverted evangelicals" (Bible Doctrine, p. 222).

John talks about such people in 1 John 2:4. he says, "Whoever says 'I know him' but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him". if someone associates themselves with Christians, acts like them, and puts on the facade of being one of them, but constantly lies, constantly uses profanity, participates in unwholesome activities, they're nothing but liars. however, keep in mind that this case is only applicable when the person in question hasn't accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and put his or her total trust in Him.

on the other hand, there are the Christians who are living in sin still. although they are forgiven of all their sins upon salvation, they haven't repented of their old ways, and there is no evident change. some say that that means that they aren't Christians at all, but I have no clue how to go about with that, so I'll leave the description at that. a perfect example of this is a man by the name of Michael Guglielmucci.

Michael Guglielmucci might be a familiar name to you, or he might not be. chances are, this is the first time you've ever heard of him. well, Guglielmucci was (keyword there) one of the worship leaders at Hillsong Church Australia. if you've ever heard the song "Healer" (look it up if you haven't. suuuuper powerful), Guglielmucci wrote this song. simply, it's about his "struggle with cancer." well, that turned out to be a total lie that he made up. truth be told, he had ALL the symptoms of the cancer, but it was all a lie (upon his confession, the song, unfortunately, was removed from the album). in fact, THAT lie was to cover up an addiction to pornography.

jacob, why the heck did you tell me a story about a dude with a weird looking last name?

well, it was to illustrate my point about Christians still wallowing in sin.

if someone is like that, he or she can't be an active part of the Body of Christ. they're as useless as dead leaves. Jesus says, "Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he [God the Father] takes away..." (John 15:2).

you know who you are. you go around, proclaiming Christ as your Savior, but you frequently lie, you frequently curse, every other word out of your mouth is gossip, you "get around," and your Saturday nights don't match up to your Sunday mornings. and in some cases, you're a Christian school student. if this describes you, you need to check yourself before you wreck yourself.

- JR

excuse me, i believe you have my stapler...

2010-02-01T11:20:00.000-08:00

after getting my car un-stuck from in front of my house (with the help of a neighbor), getting breakfast, reading a chapter for bible study, and practicing and perfecting "Daughters" and "Dare You To Move," I'm here!

oh, and by the way, please excuse my random thoughts (in italics). it's the classic case of the Mondays, minus the Chotchkie's visit with Mike Bolton, Samir, and that other guy who I can't seem to remember.

the roads were straight-up baaaaaad, and were basically an outdoor hockey rink. and, since cars don't have ice-skates for tires, I ended up swerving a little bit. all that, plus the fact the Virginia drivers have NO clue how to handle the snowy conditions, makes for a bad combination.

everything's still frozen, everything still has snow on it, the Bethel student parking lot is covered in a layer of ice, covered in snow, Big Bethel Road is covered in ice, and the plows aren't even done getting everything cleared off. and it's supposed to be a rainy mix tonight, so my guess is that school will be cancelled. but, Hampton City Schools is notorious for making students go to school, even in the worst of conditions. so, we'll find out tonight or tomorrow morning, I guess!

right as this moment, I'm totally wishing that I had some tasty snacks, whether sugary and unhealthy or not. eh, oh well. maybe a Food Lion/Farm Fresh run in the near future...

oh, and I found this guy sitting in the JC-Penney's parking lot:

my guess to what it is? just a regular old lump o' snow.

but, I stand corrected. as Jake put it, it's a covert operations base for the Russians.

the Cold War's over, Russia. take a hike, and take your Smirnoff back with you, for that matter.

I think I'm gonna go play this...

- JR

it's 'snow fun with out snow fun

2010-01-31T19:38:00.000-08:00

so, today turned out half good, half bad.

the good?

- hanging out with my best friend, who's basically my sister

- going sledding/ using a sled for a snowboard in Kiln Creek

- pushing a lady out of a deep rut and freeing her car from being stuck

the bad?

- getting completely ignored by two girls that I ditched my best friend for to hang out with

- the girls turned out to be jerks, just like always

anyways, that's my little venting for the day.

this is what I did today:

buuuuut, before I talk about that, I did this:

yes, I stepped in a hole.

you're probably thinking, haha smooth move, jacob. FAIL.

yeah, pretty much. I thought I was stepping onto a bridge at Yorktown, but I ended up stepping straight into this hole.

anywaysssss, back to the earlier photos

I decided to use Hattie's sled as a snowboard, since regular sledding was rather boring to me. I saw no challenge in it.

so, after about 20 trips down a slope, I looked off into the horizon, and saw an amazing sight: a large slope for my sweet tricks.

okay no, I didn't. I just looked a little left and saw that some guys had made a small makeshift slope out of snow, and wanted to go over it.

so, I was going over this slope, and all of a sudden, I make contact with the snow. the snow made contact with my skin. needless to say, I was done for the day.

hopefully, all you guys out there reading this had a great time in the snow these past few days!

- JR

snow - warm clothes + red shorts = ?

2010-01-30T17:30:00.000-08:00

if you live in the 757, or Virginia for that matter, you would know that we had a massive serving of snow last night/today

weeeellllll, while most people were out there playing in the lovely white stuff falling from the sky, I was inside (well, for a little bit)

what were you doing?, you may ask...

well,
- I bought the domain name to my blog (notice the new URL!) idea inspired by Jake Holland
- I looked at Jake's crazy pictures
- I watched Mythbusters

the time that I was outside...
- I took my own crazy pictures
- I got slightly chilled, seeing as I'm used to the cold

anyone can have harmless, great fun in the snow, and not even give thought to the fact that God gave it to us (both the fun and the snow). He gave us this day, He gave us the snow, He gave me those little red shorts I have on in my pictures, He gave us the cars that lie somewhere under the 6-7(?) inches of snow, He gave us everything. so, don't forget that

also, since I have this amazing Macbook Pro, and iPhoto, I tend to upload lots of photos. so, I have a question that requires your help:
what are some photo-editing softwares that are good for Mac?
I would appreciate multiple programs in an answer, but I'll take what I can get with this
(if multiple programs, PLEASE rank in order of your preference. it'd be much appreciated)

email answers to jacob.ray.93@gmail.com, or post them on my Facebook wall

well, I'm off for the night

- JR

...so when You look at me, You see Your reflection...

2010-01-28T19:48:00.000-08:00

I'm gonna start this by saying that I can't do it alone. when I write these blogs, and pour out my thoughts, it's God that's giving me the ability to do it. so don't give me credit for anything that you agree with, or me saying something that you liked, give it to God.

so, with that, I shall begin. I was listening to "Potter's Wheel" by Daniel Bashta earlier, and I just started dissecting the verses, bridge, and the chorus. after looking at it, I realized it was a prayer.

I'm not going to straight up paraphrase it stanza for stanza, but I will try and put it in prayer format.

Dear Lord, make me the person You want me to be. transform me into someone who radiates You in my life.

that's it, sort of in a nutshell.

is God number one in your life? when people see you, do they see God in you?

don't waste your life with things that aren't of God, because you could do so much more with your life if you're focused on God.

- JR

we are defined by the choices we make

2010-01-27T08:04:00.000-08:00

hello followers! I'd like to start off today's post by thanking you for reading my blog. it means so much to me that you're reading my random posts and seeing how crazy out there I am!

so, I'm sitting in my living room, thinking about some good movies, and Fight Club comes to my mind (it's not good because there's blood galore, and lots of violence, the acting is very genuine and downright enjoyable). and as I think about Fight Club, I remember the scene where Tyler goes to the convenient store and basically makes the man finish school to become a veterinarian, and how Tyler would make sure that he finished school, or else.

now, stay with me here...

as I think about this, I remember back to a few Sundays ago when a guy came to speak to our youth group about how the only way someone could get out of a certain gang from his home in El Salvador was to become a Christian. and, if the person who is a Christian isn't living out his or her life for God, the leader of the gang kills them.

you might be thinking: where the heck is Jacob trying to go with this???

well, I'm not really trying to go anywhere special with this. it just popped into my head and the two instances are sort of identical, with respect to the overall process and idea.

Similarities
- in Fight Club, Tyler simply said (paraphrased, of course), "If you don't become a veterinarian, we (meaning the fight club) will find you and kill you."
- in El Salvador, the leader of the gang basically says to the new Christian, "If you don't live every single day of your life for God, we will find you and kill you."

see the similarity?

for those who don't...
the similarity is that the person, whether it be Tyler or the gang leader, is motivating the subject, whether the ex-gang member or the asian from a convenient store, to become the best they can be. and, if the subject doesn't become the best he or she can be, they're toast.

"what can we take away from this?"

no, I won't keep tabs on you to make sure you're becoming the best veterinarian you can be at the local community college, or kill you if you don't, but all I'm trying to say is:

Don't be fake. Life your life for God, and let it be evident in your daily life

- JR

the worship album: the preliminary listing

2010-01-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

okay everyone, if you remember my "resolve, to have a good year" post, you would remember that my first resolution of the new year is to create a full worship album.

welllllllllllll, I come to you now to give you a progress update/ potential track-listing.

Progress
as of now, I have 2 completed songs, and 2 currently in the recording process

aaaaaaaand now, for what you all have been waiting for

Track Listing
disclaimer: this is just a first listing, this is subject to change

so far, 8 tracks have been confirmed on the album

they are as follows:
1. The Time Has Come (Hillsong United)
2. All Because Of Jesus (Fee)
3. Planned Out (original track)
4. Jesus Paid It All (Elvina Hall)
5. True Love (Phil Wickham)
6. How He Loves (John-Mark McMillan)
7. From The Inside Out (Hillsong United)
8. Unashamed (Starfield)

stay tuned for more updates!
- JR

welcome to the planet, welcome to existence

2010-01-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

hello everyone!

yes, it HAS been a rather long amount of time since I've updated. my apologies, I've had a few rough days lately, with many ups and downs that have been pure complications.

so, here I am again, back to posting!

I just got home from playing at Crossroads Community Church with Jacob Dryden for their youth gathering, led by Terrace "TC" Crawford. this man's heart is in the right place, and he's got the fiery passion for God that all churches need, regardless of how passionate they are. I love this man to death, his sermons are so powerful.

anyways, back to me playing at the church...

I love playing there because it just lets me truly worship without any boundaries
I'm not saying that at LSM:pm I have boundaries, there's just a more intimate atmosphere about it that isn't achieved at Liberty

as I was going about my day, I've just felt like I've been a rut musically. I go through the weekly motions of practicing songs that have been overplayed by the youth band, and then, come Wednesday night, everything's thrown together in a worshipful manner. don't get me wrong, I DO have many worshipful Wednesdays, but lately, I haven't felt that way about them.

so, following this, I've been listening to my mainly-Christian music library (1032 of 2711 songs, to be exact), and I've thrown together what could possibly be a truly worshipful set:

- to start off the night, I'd open up with The Time Has Come by Hillsong United. it talks about how we need to live for God in our everyday lives, a statement that needs to reign true in all Christians' lives
- next, I'd bring down the atmosphere and play Whatever You're Doing by Sanctus Real. it talks about how we as Christians need to give up our lives to God and let Him truly work in our lives and conform to His will
- third, I'd play How He Loves by John-Mark McMillan. this song just reinforces that God loves us, and His love is more amazing than any worldly love has to offer
- lastly, I'd play Always Forever by Phil Wickham. I absolutely LOVE this song. there's no better way to tell God that He's everything to us, and every time I hear this song, I end up on the verge of tears

if I ever get to play this set, I think it would have to be acoustic. acoustic sets always strip away all the extra stuff and let the set have the essence of each song be delivered in the way that it needs to be. I feel like there needs to be a more worshipful attitude in our youth ministry, because I definitely feel a lacking of that attitude

- JR

come close, and listen to the story

2010-01-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

hello again everyone!

today/tonight has just been one of the most amazing and awesome Sundays I've ever experienced.

the day started out with being my first band practice back from my break. the lesson this morning in sunday school was nothing less than exceptional.

then, around 6, the band met at John-Paul's house for discussion and hang-out. I've never felt more inspired, nor broken and sad, after something like this.

I'm inspired because...
- we had an amazing time tossing out ideas amongst the group
- the entire time, the band had so much fun just being together
- we have so much to look forward to, as a band and as a church

I'm broken and sad because...
- after the discussion time, as we were leaving, we talked about how messed up some groups of christians are, and how some are even in leadership positions
- some of these "christians" are no different than the worldly guy who spends his nights in his so-called lover's bed.

that brings me to this point:
worship is nothing without the heart behind it

worship really means "worth ship". we are to give God everything He's worth, and that's pretty much close to impossible.

I would also like to call out christians who participate in sexual activity.
(note: this is no one in particular. this is to all the christians who do these things)

in the bible, the authors specifically point out how we are to save ourselves sexually for our future husband (in guys' cases) or wife (in girls' cases).

1 Corinthians 7:2 says "But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband."

this verse is rather self-explanatory, and self-interpreting.

the Bible even says that it's in God's will that you stay away from sexual acts before marriage (1 Thessalonians 4:3 "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality").

more verses along the lines of sexual immorality:
- Hebrews 13:4 "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous."
- 1 Corinthians 6:8-10 "8 But you yourselves wrong and defraud — even your own brothers! 9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, 10 nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God."
- 1 Corinthians 6:18 "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body."

there are many many many more, but these verses I've hand-picked because they mean a lot to me.

- JR

we are His portion, and He is our prize

2010-01-07T18:25:00.000-08:00

hello once again!
this week has been so great, yet so bad in so many ways

Good
- Coffey Anderson, an independent artist, came in this Wednesday and performed at Liberty
- I've been able to drive to school, AND I've only had to put gas in my tank once since last Friday
- I've been downloading some inspiring and great music, i.e. John Mark McMillan, The Glorious Unseen, Misty Edwards, Modest Mouse, The Wedding, etc.
- I've had an urge to just pick up a guitar at every chance possible

Bad
- School started back
- It's been five years since my dad died
- School started back

the main reason I blog tonight is this:
after reflecting on "How He Loves," by The Glorious Unseen (written by John Mark McMillan), I feel like this song gets lost in translation, as far as the true meaning goes.

so, I'm here to dispel the mystery behind why this song was written, and what it really means.

this video explains it all. I can't say it any better.

- JR

playlist, part two

2010-01-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

hello!

yeah yeah yeah, i've re-done my playlist of '09. so what?

these songs actually made my 2009, music-wise
as to who made my year for real, i'll never tell ;)

1. Mess Of Me - Switchfoot
2. Hello Seattle - Owl City
3. Such Great Heights (The Postal Service) - Confide
4. In Shallow Seas We Sail - Emery
5. Do Better - Say Anything
6. Weightless - All Time Low
7. Keep The Party Alive - Family Force 5
8. Backfire - Mute Math
9. Cemetery - Say Anything
10. One Of Those Nights - The Cab
11. Kings And Queens - 30 Seconds To Mars
12. Dance Like You're from the Future - After Edmund
13. Let’s Go - Cartel
14. Skyway Avenue - We the Kings
15. Empty Sighs and Wine - Isles & Glaciers
16. Yellow Cat (Slash) Red Cat - Say Anything
17. It Must Really Suck To Be Four Year Strong Right Now - Four Year Strong
18. Suspension - Mae
19. Heartbreak Warfare - John Mayer
20. Sorry, Dudes. My Bad. - Say Anything
21. I Woke Up In a Car - Something Corporate
22. Boulevard of Broken Songs - Green Day/Oasis/Travis/Aerosmith

resolve, to have a good new year

2010-01-02T12:17:00.000-08:00

hello! and happy new years everyone!

i start off this year with a thought-out post, and a random thought thrown in there

random thought:
JUSTIN BIEBER YOU ARE 15, PRE-PUBESCENT, AND LOOK LIKE A LITTLE BOY. STOP SINGING ABOUT HOW YOU LOVE GIRLS. YOU HAVEN'T EVEN REACHED PUBERTY.

that's all the randomness :)

now, for the thought-out part.

i've made my resolutions, just like everyone else has. but, unlike most, i'll actually keep mine going past week two of January.

my resolutions are:
1. Complete a full Worship Album. i've been working on recording some worship music, and i'm working to actually complete a full 15 song album with both original and traditional worship tracks. (any ideas for worship music you'd like to hear on it, contact me)
2. Get in shape and Stay in shape. yeah, i'm wayyy outta shape. i need to get back into shape and stay that way

well, that's all for now. hit me up for ideas and whatnot with worship music!

-JR

exit-playlist of 2009/ enter-playlist of 2010

2009-12-31T13:20:00.000-08:00

happy new year's eve everyone!

yes, i posted two blogs earlier (more like 4am). but, those were pre-typed, so it's okay!

i come to you asking for your input/compilations

as the year ends, and the new one begins, i always make a playlist for the event.
this year, it just so happens to be mainly covers

my playlist is as follows:
1. Pokerface (Lady Gaga) - Of Mice and Men
2. Such Great Heights (The Postal Service) - Confide
3. Just Dance (Lady Gaga) - Disco Curtis
4. Spiderwebs (No Doubt) - Four Year Strong
5. Boulevard Of Broken Songs - Green Day/ Oasis/ Travis/ Aerosmith
6. SexyBack (Justin Timberlake) - Just Surrender
7. I Kissed A Girl (Katy Perry) - AttackAttack!
8. Absolutely [Story Of A Girl] (Nine Days) - Four Year Strong
9. Men In Black (Will Smith) - Forever The Sickest Kids
10. Whatcha Gonna Do With It - Family Force 5
11. I Wish (Skee-Lo) - The Secret Handshake
12. Fireflies (Owl City) - Ahmir
13. It Must Really Suck To Be Four Year Strong Right Now - Four Year Strong
14. My Hero (Foo Fighters) [Acoustic] - Paramore
15. Umbrella (Rihanna) - Scott Simmons

now, it's your turn!
- put together 15 (or however many) songs of your end of 2009/start of 2010 playlist
- post them on blogger and/or facebook on either this post or note

happy compiling!
- JR

Pennsylvania!: the segment about PA within “The Jacob Ray Times” (part two)

2009-12-31T01:57:00.001-08:00

(written 12/28/09)

Hello yet again everyone! We (me, Tim, Abby, and Jake) just got back from bowling with Tim’s friends, Andy and Kevin. We’re watching Hot Rod right now, and I’m currently super entertained, and it’s not even 15mins into the movie. Today, us guys woke up around 12ish, and immediately started playing Wii, with computer time mixed in there (after showering of course). Then, we went to Dairy Queen and Target, and came back and played more Wii. At around 7 (I think) we went bowling, and here we are now!

This morning, I pretty much woke up to Tim and Abby’s sister’s dachshund running into the room, jumping onto the bed, and peeing allll over Tim’s comforter. Then our day went as described above. It was…weird, to say the least.

Well, that’s all for now!

-JR

Pennsylvania!: the segment about PA within “The Jacob Ray Times” (part one)

2009-12-31T01:56:00.000-08:00

(written 12/27/09)

Hello everyone! ‘Tis I, j-ray yet again. I’m currently in Pennsylvania, visiting Timmy-B with Jake Holland. We surprised Tim by having me jump out of Jake’s car’s trunk, and Tim tackled me.

Jake, Tim, Abby, and I just got back from seeing Paranormal Activity. I don’t recommend this movie at ALL. Truth be told, I AM into paranormal happenings, but this, this was something far worse than the typical “there’s a ghost in my house” activity. This was farrrrrr more evil than that; demonic entities, poltergeist-like phenomena, residual haunting, this is the making of something that is just completely horrible.

The gist of this film is that a couple (mind you, unmarried) has strange occurrences with some form of “paranormal activity” (hence the name of the movie). The girlfriend (Katie) has been linked with past activity, stemming from the same entity following her around from place to place. The boyfriend (Micah), however, seems to find all this amusing, and he buys a massive camera to document everything that happens.

Throughout the movie, this entity (later to be identified as a full-on, intelligent demon) wreaks havoc on this couple through multiple mediums; shadows on the door, footsteps, EVPs (electronic voice phenomena), lights turning on and off, doors slamming shut, and a few other forms (I’ll talk about this soon). The couple goes wrong when they try to take matters into their own hands; Micah tries to use a Ouija board, yet doesn’t really have a chance when Katie yells at him to leave. The entity “communicates”, to say the least, using the board.

From then on out, the activity worsens. The entity makes contact through powder markings, with powder put down by Micah. Then, the entity drags Katie out of bed. The activity peaks and plateaus at Katie’s possession.

I highly do NOT recommend seeing this movie. It’s not worth any money that would be paid on it.

Anyways, more to come later!

-JR

(close to) year-end _____ in review!

2009-12-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

hello once again! i've come today to bring a favorited thing in this new technological age:

reviews

"reviews of what???" you may ask. well, i'm reviewing EVERYTHING. yes, everything. from movies to music, from tv to internet, even from life to sleep. yes, EVERYTHING.

for every category, there will be five chosen.
so, let's begin.

Movies
- Best of the year (in no particular order)
1. Avatar - best special effects, best plot, best whatever else there is. this movie ROCKED.
2. Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince - the latest installment in the Harry Potter saga. missing some key parts, but still amazing, nonetheless.
3. Land Of The Lost - it's Will Ferrell. that's all i have to say.
4. Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen - okay, i'll give this movie some props. it did have a great special effect department, BUUUUT horrible plot.
5. District 9 - definitely a great movie. kinda in the same genre of Avatar, but not as amazing.

Music
1. New Again by Taking Back Sunday - another great album by the punkish greats, sans Fred Mascherino, plus Matt Fazzi.
2. Ocean Eyes by Owl City - i don't care what anyone says, Owl City is really good, and one dude doing it all by himself deserves, and gets, my listening.
3. Keep The Party Alive EP by Family Force 5 - i love these guys. that's why the last 3 spots on this "best of..." list goes to them. the album's namesake, "Keep The Party Alive", was featured on a Skeleanimals at Target commercial, and then was released in the album. AMAZING.
4. The Family Force 5 Christmas Pageant by Family Force 5 - who doesn't love christmas music? the boys have done a great job with this album.
5. Dance Or Die With A Vengeance by Family Force 5 - this holds a special place in my heart for one reason: about a month or so before this album released, tim brentner and i won VIP passes to get onto the band's tour-bus. along with this, we heard the unreleased remixes (Fever, D-I-E 4 Y-O-U) and we heard the newest song: Ghostride The Whip. it was completely amazing, i loved the album, and the bus.

now, time for the smaller lists. i don't really know how long these will be, but they're my faves regardless.

TV
1. The Office - well, duh. rainn wilson + steve carell + a show about basically nothing = amazing.
2. Saturday Night Live - the 35th season was just as funny and great as the past 34 seasons.
3. Ghost Lab - i don't really know who all like this kinda stuff, but i love it. Discovery Channel has a good show, besides Mythbusters and Dirty Jobs.
4. Ghost Adventures - another great ghost show on Travel Channel.

Internet (sites, fads, etc.)
1. Facebook.com - one of the greatest social-networking sites ever created. goodbye, myspace, you've been replaced.
2. Twitter.com - twitter revolutionized the phrase, "what are you doing now?" and turned it into a lifestyle tool.
3. MyLifeIsAverage.com - it's the normal, not-so-ominous version of FML (F My Life). i literally spend about an hour everyday reading the MLIA stories. it's great.
4. Wikipedia - if it's on Wikipedia, it's for real. just like how the Phoebus High School page used to say that it was used as a prison.

Life
this might be a hard "best of..." category, so if i offend anyone, it's my opinion, and you don't have to feel the same way.
1. Best Day Of The Year (relationally) November 1st 2009 - i have my reasons why it was the best day. i didn't think so to begin with, but i've realized it was. plus, it was day #1 of No-Shave November.
2. Best Friends Jake Holland, Tim Brentner, LOTS OTHERS - these two guys are the guys i go to with everything, so they HAD to make the list. if i didn't add your name, sorry, but they mean a lot to me.
3. Best Day Of The Year (milestones) December 12th 2009 - heck yeah, this was one of the best days of the year. i can drive by myself, and it ROCKS.

Sleep
did you seriously think i would review this? it's always the same every night (usually)

welp, that's all for this edition. more blogging WILL come before the end of the year, so stay tuned

-JR

rip the lid off of it

2009-12-15T18:03:00.000-08:00

hello everyone!

i just got back from our band concert, and honestly, it was THE worst concert i've ever played in, and i've been in a few gigs in my day.

some of the musicians just didn't care, some of them were inexperienced, and some just don't like Lancaster.

but, i can't forget the musicians who care and have experience, props to you for the dedication and effort!

my main problem, though, is that a select few goofed off during the middle of the the jazz band set, and that ticked me off. i don't even know the kids, but i know that i was getting the jokester vibes during the middle of my rip in Away In A Manger

here's to spring concert being better!

(Mr. Lancaster, if you read this, can we at least add ONE improv song? it would be for our benefit)

- JR

christmas-time is hereeeeeeee

2009-12-14T17:54:00.000-08:00

as Christmas comes along yet again (with purely swift moves), it always goes by without the though:

what's Christmas really about???

- well, Christmas, when dissected, literally means "Christ's Mass". it's from the greek "Cristes" and the latin "missa"
- as most people think now, Christmas is all about gifts. well, i have a news flash for you: NO IT'S NOT.
- the TRUE meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the savior of the world
- Christmas is about this: spending time with family in remembrance of how Jesus came into the world to save the world from their sins, and as Christians, whether baptists, methodists, presbyterians, episcopalians, or whatever denomination you are, we must always remember that we can't just use Christmas as a day of getting presents; it's a day where we can go into the communities of our areas and share the joy of Christ.

if anyone went to Hollydazzle at City Center this year, they would've seen a man on a milk crate with a large megaphone. he was out there, sharing the true Christmas story out of Luke. as this holiday season comes around, use his example as an idea for your ministry: go out and just stand on a street corner and proclaim the Gospel. or, use the cold weather as a tool: go to a big shopping area and give out hot chocolate or cider, and have Gospel tracts there for the patrons to pick up as they go by. there's SO much that can be done to just plant the seed of God.

also, i want to dedicate this next part to the non-Christians:
this is probably a bunch of mumbojumbo that you have NO clue about. you might be sitting there thinking, "who's Jesus?", or possibly, "there's no God".
well, for the latter of the two, i really don't know how else to tell you about God, except that He took me out of a low place in my life and saved me from a lot of crap.
for the former of the two, Jesus is God's son. God sent Jesus to save the world from their sins, and God sent Him for you. a famous verse in the bible (John 3:16) says "For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten son, and whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life". put it on a personal level:
"For God so loved (your name here) that He sent His only begotten son..."
He sent His son, who He loved so much, for YOUR sins. but, the only way to be forgiven from your sins is to:
- admit that you are a sinner
- believe that Jesus is God's son
- confess your sins

if you want to learn more, or if you want to become a Christian, don't hesitate to message/call/contact me. it WILL be the best decision you will EVER make.

- JR

sick days

2009-12-10T10:42:00.000-08:00

hello everyone!
'tis i, J-Ray

today, i woke up sick, and i could barely talk, or get up, due to a massive headache, a nasty throat, and a messed up foot
plus, i was suuuuuper tired

so far in december, i've done nothing really. but, in 2 days, i'll be able to drive by myself, so i'll be doing more by then

i had this idea the other day to use a suitcase for a gear transport. i still have to find this suitcase...

well, that's all for now!

- JR

2009-12-05T06:16:00.000-08:00

good morning everyone
i know this a little early, but i had a bit of a rough night of sleep

i had one of the worst nightmares ever last night. it was almost a combination/collaboration of 2 nightmares that flowed together

(i'll state the nightmare, then point out the flaws)

in this nightmare, i was having a rather large party for some reason. all of my friends were there, even some people i don't even know/like. everything was spotless, the house, the garage, EVERYTHING. there was NOTHING at all in the garage, just boxes. then, somehow, another 4 days go by, and we're (my mom and i) driving down an unfamiliar road in what looks like an unfamiliar town. we pull up to a victorian-looking house, we get out, and start putting the boxes, which were in the old garage, into the house. it hit me (in the dream) that we were moving in. i looked around and i see signs that say something about "seattle": seattle realty, seattle living, etc. then, another 2 weeks go by, and we have friends over from back home and it's christmas, and it seems rather heartfelt and somewhat solemn. another 2 weeks go by, and my mom and i are driving in front of a seattle high school, and my mom says "look at your new school, that's where you're going." it flashes to the end of the school year, and i'm sitting at a school dance, alone and bitter. i go to text one of my friends, then i wake up.

okay, so there are some HUUUUGE flaws about this here.
- my mom's job is needed here, not seattle
- our garage can never be clean. ever.
- we could never really afford a victorian era house
- if i was to move, i would most likely request home-schooling, not public schooling
- i would never be alone at a school dance

i woke up from this with sweat dripping from my face, my heartbeat racing, and my hands shaking

- JR

2009-11-03T16:18:00.000-08:00

hello everyone!
sorry that it's been over 2 months since my last update, due to a multitude of circumstances that have made me want to just vent and lay into the culprits, but i'm better than that.

so, today we had Election Day off, and i went around with ben and john-paul to do some odd activities (can't say what until after next weekend). but, all i can say is that it will be amazinggggggg when they're revealed.

i really don't have much to talk about, but i just wanted to let every follower know that i was still living and breathing.

if anything happens interesting, i'll consider posting it.

in the mean-time, here's a couple videos for you to watch:
- Red House Furniture: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnOyMSEWNTs
- Old Gregg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydr8a3UHUy4 (the audio is the best part)
- Pachelbel Rant http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdxkVQy7QLM
- Real Zone http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GO63NuAGuks

one week left...

2009-09-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

hello everyone!

'tis the first day of September (ugh) and that just means a couple more days until school :'(

i'm basically writing today because 1) i have nothing to do while waiting for Em to wake up and 2) i have limited time to be able to do this until school starts

so, it's gotten easier since Sunday with the whole missing Emily thing because she has a set schedule now :) but it'll get even easier with school starting

well, food's here so i gotta jet

later!

golf and alcohol don't mix, that's why i don't drink and drive...

2009-08-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

wait...who are you people, and what are you doing here???

...oh waitttt, you guys are followers/readers of my blog! i had almost forgotten, it's been awhile since i've been on unfortunately =/

i return to inform you that i'm sorry, but i've been preoccupied these last few weeks with friends leaving and working out problems with music and whatnot. but i'm here to fill you in on the last few weeks.

since my last post on the 10th...
- i've lost a couple friends to the whole "college" fad, but they still keep in touch
- i've received about 20(?) shirts from Jake after a deepclean of his closet
- i've gotten a laptop from a rewards company for virtually free
- i've had a superiorly rough week this past week, with emily leaving and being alone for the majority of the week, save friday and saturday
- i celebrated (from afar of course) 7 wonderful months (not too big of an accomplishment, but it's the longest continuous relationship for me) with my beautiful and loving girlfriend emily

so far, the friends leaving has been okay, it doesn't feel so bad.
but, with emily leaving, it was extremely hard. this has honestly been probably THE longest we've gone without seeing each other. but i need to get used to this, because i know college is veryy demanding and time-consuming. it's been hard these past 3 or 4 days because i honestly have cried about 12 times, most of them being today.

i'm coping with it fairly easy today, but it'll get better as the days, weeks, and months go by.

well, i'll at least post before labor day, or try to...don't get your hopes up.

J-Ray OUT!

the good night is still everywhere

2009-08-10T19:04:00.000-07:00

so, i'm sitting at home (usual occurrence), and straight up outta the blue, my mom starts hating on my girlfriend and me.

that brings me here. to this computer. full of anger.

i had decided to download some Dustin Kensrue single stuff, and it's come in handy. it's a very calming genre of music, and helps alot. his covers are amazingly done.

but, that's beside the point.

have you ever had someone you were close to just criticize everything you've worked on over a period of time? ever had anyone tell you that you deserve better, when you know you have the best? ever had someone disapprove of the most important friend and person in your life?

well, i have. and over the past 6 months, it's happened numerous times.

and i'm sick and tired of it.

Super Summer '09

2009-07-31T20:43:00.000-07:00

hello everyone!
long time no blog for me!

this past week was a maaasive outreach event called Super Summer at Liberty, and so much went down that was fun and straight up adrenaline-fueled. 12 teams duked it out to see who would come out on top as winner of a $50 gift card to the mall (props to yellow for winning!).

Night #1: Water Games
- 2 games were played (supposed to be 3; will be explained): water into the bucket, and sliding tubes
these were the only 2 games played, due to a girl getting injured in the 2nd game

Night #2: Wienerthon
- this is a massive event where 15(?) hot-dog related games are played in a relay-style format

Night #3: Mud Volleyball
- like the name states, there was a mud volleyball tournament where the teams played each other in order to win, then play the staff team. baby blue beat pink to take on the undefeated staff team. they're still undefeated...

overall, it was a great event. i can't wait for next year!

the speaker, Jamie, gave 3 powerful messages around stories that involved john-paul or his son, and they all tied in to the message of accepting Jesus as your savior.

well, off to bed now, good night, Interwebs!

pre-concert reflection

2009-07-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

hello followers! after a long spell of inactiviy, I'm back to recap the first few weeks of summer vacation

in the past few weeks...
- I went to camp in West Virginia
- I played bass in Vacation Bible School
- I switched to lead guitar from bass
- I played Where's Waldo for the first time in ages
- and much more

in the next few days...
- I'll have seen All Time Low 4 times, and will be able to add Cartel, We The Kings, and Days Difference to my list of viewed bands
- I'll see Dalton and Lindsay-Beth become husband and wife
- and some more

in the next few weeks...
- I'll hopefully get a landscaping job with a good friend from church
- I'll be participating in Super Summer (hopefully on the Pink Team)
- and so much more

as for tonight, I'll be trekking to Richmond (veryyy soon) with Jake Holland and Zach Milot to see the 4 bands mentioned above at the National, then maybe going to get food, as is tradition with our group.

not only have I accomplished these worldly things, I've been trying to reconnect with God and keep that going strong throughout summer, and not allow it to falter through my junior year of high school.

well, that's all folks, Jake will be here any minute and I've gotta do the checklist of needed things!

stay classy, interwebs!

come out on top

2009-06-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

hello followers, 'tis another June night before camp.

if you read the title, it's a commonly used phrase in the sports world to indicate that a team has won a game from behind.

but, if you've read my posts in the past, the titles have nothing to do with my posts.

that will change with this post.

the phrase "come out on top" has been associated with multiple industries, one which was mentioned earlier. but, has anyone associated it with religion? it's doubtful.
as Christians, we're supposed to follow Christ and try our best to be Christ-like. but, we can't do that if we're in an instance of spiritual warfare and are losing. so, if we are to become Christ-like, I think we must "come out on top" in order to fully try our best to be like our savior.
how do we come out on top? that can be as simple, or as complex, as you want it to be. simply put, we must always rely on God. if you remember the FROG keychains, they embody this phrase (Fully Rely On God). in addition to relying on Him, we must converse with God. this means to read scripture and pray daily.
if we do all of this, we can "come out on top" in the spiritual warfare we may face and continue to strive for Christlikeness.

you stay classy, interwebs
- JR

mountain-top experience

2009-06-14T20:02:00.000-07:00

this upcoming week is our annual LSM summer camp @ Snowshoe Mountain.

the crazy part: 250 kids. that's about half of a typical Hampton City Schools graduating class

although it's gonna be amazing, that's entirely too many kids. but, complaining is for worriers, and worrying is a sin (it doubts that God is in full control).

last year, we were challenged to not complain, but to take in what God had given us for the week and see how we can be used for His glory instead of what we want to do. and there was a lot to complain about, so that was a hard challenge to fulfill. from being stung in the eye due to ignorance, to unruly activity during free time, much could be complained about and criticized

last year, the week ended strong with around 5 or 6 baptisms, and multiple changed lives. some I highly doubt have fully changed, but I won't extrapolate on that.

all I gotta say is: you best be prepared for the intensity of fevers, dancing, and God.

you stay classy, interwebs,
- JR

i know, i know. you're gonna be the best...DANCE OR DIE

2009-05-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

as I'm jamming to the new Family Force 5 album, Dance Or Die With A Vengeance, I began to think, "I haven't blogged in agessss."

Well, here I am.

since last blogging (or typing a blog up [the last blog was typed in San Diego]), I've done a few things:
1. I've met Family Force 5 AND hung out on their tour bus, and also listened to unreleased content, released today
2. I ordered a multi-effects pedalboard for my guitar, and love it to death
3. I've gotten a few CD's offa the internet...for free

there's only a few a more weeks left of school, and then Camp pretty much the day after

signing off for the night,
- JR

oldddd blog

2009-05-07T06:07:00.000-07:00

I totally just found this on my iPod
it's from Spring Break from our mission trip:

This past week, I've been in San Diego on a mission trip with the youth, helping out CrossChurch San Diego by inviting people to their Easter service and spreading the word of God. The first day was easy, just check-in and going to the senior pastor's house for food and set-up of a Slime machine. The second day brought on the start of canvasing the beach and local theatres. The third was a project that totaled 3,000+ houses between the 3 vehicles. The fourth day was a near-completion of the 8,000 or so houses, which was finished on the fifth day. The rest of the group, who didn't finish the canvasing, helped a young lady move from house to house. And today, the 9th, we had a free day of San Diego Zoo and Belmont Park roaming.
My life and view on people in general has drastically changed. I was impacted by all the people who could care less about Christianity and how they're ultimately going to Hell and dying in the lake of fire. But, I met some truly remarkable people, who've given me an ignition to my spiritual flame.
I met a couple on the beach who said that even though they went to church, they'd post a flyer in the man's office, then mentioned to me that they were so glad that youth were ecstatic and interested in living for God, and that they would be praying for us. I met a lady at our hotel, who, even though she was of a different denomination, was so proud of our group for standing up for God in every situation and being firm on our faith.
I've learned SO much, and i've learned that we aren't turned down when a refusal to an Easter invitation is given, but God himself is. My life has grown to a closer place with God, and I yearn for more opportunities to learn more about Him and share His word with the unsaved, and also the saved.
Well, that's all folks.
"You Stay Classy, San Diego."
- JR

fried, not baked

2009-04-17T07:42:00.000-07:00

so I'm sitting in GIS, and all of a sudden I hear this dude say "I wanted to joke on yo bald spot, mista C"

and then mr. C comes back with "if you woulda done that, I woulda joked on yo momma's bald spot"

oh man, kids

sleep > tech class

2009-04-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

So, I'm sitting in GIS (Geospatial Technology), and my friend Dylan just started telling a random story about a homeless guy (wanted to give the dude doughnuts and coffee, guy denied and said he had diabetes). On the other side, my friend Tyler is pwning a Sonic game.

As for me, well, this is what I'm doing: blogging

I haven't posted in awhile, so here's the latest post

Currently in my life...
- I found out Monday that I have Scoliosis (spine disorder) and they gave me some heavy sedatives. I'm super tired right now, and about to fall out and go to sleep
- I'm anxiously awaiting my SanDi mission trip, and I truly can't wait to leave VA and land in sunny SoCal
- I recently got some sweeeeet MacBeth shoes that are so comfortable, and they might just be the best shoes ever

Well, that's all for today. Farewell!

- JR

The J-Ray Chronicles

2009-02-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

the first 2 episodes of The J-Ray Chronicles
to see more, check them out on Facebook :)

Episode 1: Stuff Around My Room

Episode 2: Daily Run-Down

if you Blink, it'll be 182 time as intense

2009-02-08T18:46:00.000-08:00

this is TRULY something to blog about:

Tom DeLonge, Mark Hoppus, and Travis Barker are back in the studio, recording their 10th (yes, 10th!) studio album as they continue to hold their ground after 17 years of rockin'!

according to their Facebook page AND website: (two credible sources)

" Hi. We're blink-182. This past week there’ve been a lot of questions about the current status of the band, and we wanted you to hear it straight from us. To put it simply, We're back. We mean, really back. Picking up where we left off and then some. In the studio writing and recording a new album. Preparing to tour the world yet again. Friendships reformed. 17 years deep in our legacy.

Summer 2009.

Thanks and get ready..."

signing off for the night,
"Stay Classy, Interweb"

high school isn't cool

2009-02-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

g'day followers!
as i was sitting in jazz band, listening to the iPod, i began to think: "wow, school is so pointless!"

yes it is. for these 5 simple reasons (invented by me):
1. it's basically a daycare facility with advanced learning
2. it's like a jail, since the only windows are no where close to normal height
3. you can't really have any fun because of the rules, and if you have any fun, it ends up in getting in trouble or humiliation
4. the only "cool" classes are either filled to the brim with everyone, or they're filled with all guys (like my jazz band class and tech class"
anddddd
5. teachers end up being uptight about everything. especially newer teachers. they always wanna stick to the book and give you as much work as possible

have your own top 5 reasons? lemme know and i'll try and put 'em up on whichever site you comment on (facebook or blogger)

well, that's all for this post
arrivederci!

busy on the 31st? your answer better be no.

2009-01-29T18:06:00.001-08:00

to all who will be on the Peninsula side of the 757 area, LSM Band will be playing at NOW Night

but J-Ray, who's in the LSM Band? and what the blue blazes is NOW Night???

I'm glad you asked. The LSM Band (Liberty Student Ministry Band) is composed of 7 high-schoolers (Daniel Ethridge on lead vox, Meredith Mitchell and Jordan Ferguson on backing vox, Tim Brentner on lead guitar, John Wiggins on rhythm guitar, myself on bass, and TJ Stokes on drums).
NOW Night (Night Of Worship) is an event at Hampton Christian High.

so, I suggest you come to have your Saturday night matched up to your Sunday morning and praise God for all that He does.

that is all, farewell for the night followers!

-JR

t w e n t y f i v e t h i n g s

2009-01-28T18:21:00.000-08:00

Rules:
Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you

(tags on Facebook)

1. To begin, I love music. hands down

2. I'm always striving to be a better Christian everyday

3. I'm a text-a-holic

4. I'm obsessed with guitars, mainly Fenders

5. The other day, I adjusted my Fender Stratocaster's pick-ups and now it sounds like a John Mayer signature Strat

6. I want to become a Youth Pastor when I get outta high-school

7. I listen to every single type of music you can think of, from blues to rap to rock to pop

8. The first movie I ever saw was "The Thirteenth Warrior" with Antonio Banderas

9. I'm addicted to sweet-tea

10. I know how to successfully play 4 instruments (guitar, bass, drums, piano/keys)

11. I've seen at least 30 bands live

12. I have second-hand personal connections to SafetySuit (alt. rock band on a major label; my mom's hairdresser is the lead guitarist's aunt)

13. I'm a tech-geek

14. I like to watch hockey (go Caps!)

15. No alarm/song/contraption invented by man can wake me up, not even Underoath's "In Regards To Myself"

16. I've had my fair share of experience with girls in both friendships and relationships, and to this day I still can't understand women to save my life

17. I own about 80 CD's currently, and before I lost my large CD case, I had over 200 CD's

18. I have family that could've made it to Major League Baseball, but gave it up to be dumb

19. I love comedy, especially the likes of Jo Koy, Dane Cook, and Zach Galifianakis

20. I never study for tests or quizzes

(boy, this is hard getting 25 facts. only 5 more to go!)

21. I've acted for church and school on multiple occasions in plays and musicals

22. I could live off of Chick-Fil- A alone

23. When I play in a band, I'm never the stand-still bassist or guitarist; I'm always moving to the groove and ripping or wailing in the process

24. I've been told I have an "epic" voice; my Youth Pastor (jokingly) said it was like the voice of God was there, but of course JOKINGLY

25. And lastly, Batman is my favorite superhero; he pwns Superman and Spiderman like no other

a river runs through it, but what is "it"?

2009-01-27T14:46:00.001-08:00

so, it's been awhile since I've done an actual post, besides the video I posted earlier.

exams are over (thank God) and there was a "sNOw" day, much emphasis on the NO.
just thought I'd sit down and blog a few before I head out to Buffalo Wild Wings for Paige's get-together.

the first week of January (and majorly on the 4th) was kinda rough; it's now been 4yrs. since the padre's passing, but we get by on day-to-day basis, with a lil' help from the friends.

and I've also found out that girls, mainly ex's, like to share personal stuff with friends, then the friends lash out at me (some girl [or guy, I dunno] texted me last night while I was at Em's and harassed me).

I've also started getting deeper into John Mayer and the like, and focusing more on the licks and riffs than the lyrics and beats.

well that's all for now, farewell followers!

- JR

"the bullies smell you coming"

2009-01-27T09:47:00.000-08:00

emily told me about this and it made me laugh so hard
do the same, followers

One Week 'Til Freedom

2008-12-14T13:25:00.000-08:00

g'day followers, viewers, and posters!

it's one week until schools get out in the 757 (well, more like 5 days) for Christmas Break.
it's pretty much gonna feel like an ETERNITY.

so, to pass it by, I'm gonna post a challenge to all public schoolers/college students:
each day of the school week,
1. randomly find one completely random fact about christmas and remember it.
2. then write it in your locker, notebooks, or somewhere you can view it
3. sometime during the day (the morning, lunch time, class change), tell it to someone who you're walking beside or your friend that you see alot during the course of the day

by the end of the school week, not only will you have found 5 crazy facts about christmas, but you'll know some awesome things to do during the holidays

(for people going on trips/vacations/cruises/etc., do the same thing, but tell them to family or whoever you're traveling with)

that's all, Merry Chrisma-hanna-kwanz-ikah!

- JR

No-Shave November

2008-11-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

who said Novemeber was all about turkeys, politics, and servicemen?

well, not me.

cuz, besides those things, it's a little thing called "No-Shave November", and involves stashin' that ol' razor away in the closet/cabinet/shed/etc.

not to be confused with Mustache March, No-Shave November is an absence of shaving period, not just skippin over the upper-lip

here's to the mountain-man look by November 30th!

-JR

"ill"usionist Brock Gill

2008-10-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

tonight, Brock Gill, a widely-reknown illusionist, came to LBC tonight to do his thing.

his thing is AMAZING. i'm still amazed by it, him walking on glass, almost getting speared by a sword, and doing crazy card tricks (which i know the secret to)

two word: shiggity. shweet.

capture the....tag???

2008-10-23T13:33:00.000-07:00

Here are the rules:
Rule 1 - Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
Jake Holland http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=68113961&ref=nf and http://jakeholla.blogspot.com/

Rule 2 - Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself

1. I own 7 guitars (3 electric, 1 acoustic/electric, 2 acoustic, and one bass), a basic Keyboard, a 4-pad Drum Machine, 4 amplifiers, 2 microphones, 3 effects pedals, and I plan on buying an actual set of drums.

2. I had an idea to cover Emery's "Walls" using cardboard instruments at camp. After Jake Holland and Josh Crouterfield saw the instruments, they suggested that instead of covering Walls, we cover Luv Addict by FF5. Well, we practiced it with Jake on "singing", Me on "rhythm guitar", Josh on "lead guitar", Adam McNeal on "keytar", Robby Edmonds on "bass", and Zac Ethridge on "drums". After we practiced a few times, we had it down pat. All that was left was to come up with a name for our ensemble. Many names floated around, including the kooky "The Dancing Headbands Of Justice", contributed by Jake. Well, that contribution led to Josh's idea for "Reason 2 Dance". What began as a parody of a crazy song became a talent show-winning act. A year later, we still perform at camp and other events, sans Josh.

3. I've been, in some way, shape or form, almost killed by various processes, the latest being a near-exploding grill at my grandma's house.

4. This might be a shocker to some, I'm adopted. I was adopted upon birth by my mom and dad. Even though I look like my mom, who's Dutch- and Scotch-Irish, and my dad, who was Cherokee Indian, I'm from a whole different part of the world: I'm Greek and, supposedly, Italian (the Italian part hasn't been confirmed by anyone).

5. If you've grown up with me or have known me from 5th grade on, you know I've had MANY style changes, from normal kid, to depressed 6th grader induced by death, to skater kid, to spirtitually "lost" skater/scene kid, to saved Christian Rocker, to no particular style at all as of late.

6. I absolutely LOVE Legos and anything of the like. Since my former career choice was Engineer, I tinkered and built things from the Millenium Falcon to a Ferrari to all the Harry Potter sets. Unfortunately, all the room on my shelves has been occupied by the Harry Potter sets, the entertainment center has been home to the Ferrari, and I have NO clue where the Millenium Falcon is. Hopefully, I'll be able to find/get the new Batman set/sets released in lieu of the Lego Batman game, released late September.

7. Okay time for the "Favorites" fact:
- My favorite bands are Switchfoot, Relient K, Family Force 5, and Fall Out Boy
- My favorite movies are The Dark Knight, Hot Rod, and Cloverfield
- My favorite superhero is Batman
- My favorite soda is Mountain Dew
- My favorite books, aka Graphic Novels (regular books are so boring), are Watchmen, the Batman: Hush series, and Heroes vol. 1
- My favorite sports are soccer, ultimate frisbee, and lacrosse

Rule 3 - Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their posts

1. Gordonius Rex
2. Chris Menzel
3. Emily Baumgardner
4. Tim Brentner
5. Danielle Bennett
6. Adam Covell
7. Zach Milot

ahhhh halloweeeeeenn

2008-10-22T18:03:00.001-07:00

it's that time of year, and the smell is in the air....

the movie The Nightmare Before Christmas by Tim Burton puts it best: "this is halloween"

yesssss, halloween. so, that leads to this question: what should i be?

preschool fun day

2008-08-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

okay, word of advice, unless you have a knack for entertaining, caring for, or anything with kids, DON'T do anything that involves 3 straight hours of kids, kids, and more kids, like preschool fun day

and, 3yr olds who aren't potty trained definitely are not too fun to carry around, especially with wet trousers

but otherwise, it was pretty fun :)

-JR

inaugural post

2008-08-05T05:31:00.000-07:00

hello, hola, hallo, bonjour, ciao, etc., etc.
whatever language you speak, welcome to my blog, and thank you for reading

this is the first post; hopefully the posts will continue to flow

well, stay tuned for more

-JR