What is The Event?

LOST is gone, and I don't expect to ever see television like it again -- it was a perfect storm of acting, writing, directing talent.  Nothing can replace it.  But that doesn't mean I throw away the TV.  Here is a new show that I'm gonna give a shot:

Here's hoping that: 1) it's good, and 2) if it is, that it won't be cancelled right in the middle of the mystery, like FlashForward.  We'll see, starting tomorrow night.

Happy birthday, Mom...2010

September 16.  On this date many years ago, Mary Cheek gave birth to one of the most amazing women who ever lived --  my mother, Margaret Cheek Manis.  So on this date I remember her and give thanks to God for her life and the continuing influence she has had over me, my dad, my sisters, her grandchildren, and so many others.

It's hard to express how much she meant to me over the course of her life, and how the lessons she taught me have molded me.  She ran her tail off when I was growing up to make sure my sisters and I were always where we were supposed to be.  And as I grew into adulthood, she was someone I could always talk to.  The most important lesson she taught me was how to deal with the deepest pain of life, as I saw her faith remain strong after her child went to be with the Lord at the young age of 35.  They are together now, and that makes me glad.

Since it is so hard to express, I want to pay tribute to her by sharing the audio of a magnificent tribute to her from my cousin Chip.  Chip loved his "Aunt Margie" so much and it was fitting for him to describe her life as we celebrated it days after her passing.  He did an amazing job of summing up what her life was about.  If you have 10 minutes, you can listen to it below.  If not, come back later when you do.  If you knew her or know any of us, her family, it'll be worth it.  Here it is...

Happy birthday, Mom!  I miss you but I'll see you soon.

Going back...

One of the most amazing things about my time in Africa was the way I saw it affect the lives of so many new friends, as well as my niece Brooke.  As I gathered with many of them less than two weeks ago, I learned that at least four of them are returning this December.  Others are feeling God tugging for them to make major changes in their life path.  My own life has been forever changed as the plight of the fatherless is at the forefront of my mind and heart as never before.  Whenever you put yourself in God's will, expect him to move!

All around me I see God's heart for the dark continent.  I ran into a friend in Panama City whose church was about to embark on a trip to build wells in Tanzania.  They just returned.  I have mentioned in a previous blog post that another friend went to Malawi as part of preparation for his church to find mission focus there.  He has now posted an incredible video of his time there -- please go to his blog for his comments about it, but you can watch it here:

Malawi Highlights from Rob Webster on Vimeo.


Yes, God is moving in Africa and I want to continue to be a part of it.  I am considering whether he is calling me back next summer on a specific trip with Visiting Orphans where I would be able to go to Ethiopia with some of my 2010 team.  Please pray for me as I make that decision.

One more thing: My friend Elissa is "going back" -- she is one of the people I mentioned who is returning in December.  I am amazed at her passion and trust in the Lord to lead her as she follows him.  So here is link to her latest blog post, "December is coming fast!"  She is looking for men and women of God who take James 1:27 seriously and want to partner with her in some way.  Would you do me a favor and prayerfully read her post?  I believe that God will richly bless you for anything you are led to do, including praying for her.

Thanks!  Now back to our regularly scheduled programming... :)

College Football Week 2 - Top 5 Observations

5.  Georgia is not the same team without A.J. Green.  Yes, South Carolina looked impressive and they may be the formidable opponent for top-ranked Alabama (yeah, I just like saying that.)  Lattimore is an amazing runner.  But I have a feeling that a Bulldog offense with Green would have scored more than 17.

4.  Maybe James Madison should be ranked #3 instead of Boise State.  They both beat Virginia Tech, and they both play schedules not worthy of a Division I-A contender.  And Boise -- if you want to be taken seriously, get a real football field.

3.  Looks like Lame Kiffin may already be destroying the once-mighty USC Trojans.  There's no way the sanctions are affecting them yet; they still have lots of talent.  A 17-14 win over Virginia at home does not inspire confidence.  Especially since two years ago they beat the Cavaliers 52-7 in Virginia.

2.  Very impressive performance by Denard Robinson.  He is easily the most impressive QB I've seen this season.  He has performed at a high level for two weeks, and his 502 (!!) all-purpose yards were amazing.  He almost single-handedly handed the loss the Notre Dame.  He is the real deal, and would currently be my choice for Heisman.

1.  Trent Richardson is a beast.  A freak of nature.  It's scary to think of what Alabama's running game can be with both him and Mark Ingram.  Bama's defense is showing alot of talent and potential, but we'll see where they really are when they face more potent offenses than Penn State.  A very solid win by the Tide though.

All in all, a great weekend of football.  I love this game!