Are you surprised?

-Abraham Joshua Heschel

but my latest addiction is distracting me.

Maybe I'll get to it later.

Ali to her surprise said, “Superman don’t need no seatbelt.”

The stewardess, startled, tried again saying, “Mr. Ali, it’s our policy to ask all passengers to fasten their seatbelts for their safety.”

Ali replied again, “I’m Superman and Superman don’t need no seatbelt.”

Unsure of what to do with her famous passenger, the stewardess reported back to her coworker onboard.  When hearing what happened, the second stewardess said that she would take care of it.  She walked over and repeated the policy and asked Muhammad Ali to fasten his seatbelt.

Ali once again repeated his phrase, “I’m Superman and Superman don’t need no seatbelt.”

To this, the stewardess replied, “Superman don’t need no airplane either!”

It’s easy to laugh at Ali’s ego and think of how foolish a comment like this sounds.  Yet, I know that I have played the role of Ali countless times in my life, thinking I’m Superman.

Perhaps I should read the following more often,

“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14

-Bob Goff from Love Does

John Upton serves as the Executive Director for the Virginia Baptist Mission Board and is the current President of the Baptist World Alliance.

By the way, we enjoyed missionaries from Brazil last summer!  They have some great things going on.

I used to think the baby was funny, but some days it hits too close to home!

But who couldn't love a face like this...

What a terrible job to have!

I love the story Travis Collins tells, in his book Tough Calls, about a touchdown he called during his first year officiating.  The offensive team was around the 9-yard line and driving.  Everyone was on high alert.  The ball was handed off to a strapping fullback, and Travis saw him carry the ball across the line, with two or three defenders in tow.  Standing astride the line Travis raised his arms and signaled touchdown, blowing his whistle as loud as he could.

So what was the problem?  The players turned and looked at him with a puzzled look and he realized the problem.   His heart sank.  Something was wrong.  He looked down and realized that he was standing on the 5-yard line.

Have you ever made a mistake like that? 

Travis goes on in his book to speak about the only thing worse than making mistakes.  It’s being paralyzed by the fear of making mistakes.  Too many people live their lives trying to avoid making tough calls and end up losing out on great opportunities. 

So as you watch the NBA playoffs (or your next sporting events) take it easy on the refs.  At least they are taking action and pursing something they love.    

We thought it was funny and yes, we know the power of a Mom on a Mission!