We have been able to spend some time back in Minnesota this summer. Being surrounded by lakes has been like going back to being a kid.
Back to our roots
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The Law of Nature
First, that human beings, all over the earth, have this curious idea that they ought to behave in a certain way, and cannot really get rid of it. Secondly, that they do not in fact behave in that way. They know the Law of Nature; they break it. These two facts are the foundation of all clear thinking about ourselves and the universe we live in.
Lewis, C. S.. Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis Signature Classics) (p. 8). HarperCollins. Kindle Edition.
Fun on the lakes
Visiting family and friends throughout Minnesota and Iowa has allowed us to step back into some of our favorite places. Here are some photos.
Adoption Fundraiser on Etsy
Crystal has been hard at work creating new jewelry to raise awareness and funds for our international adoption. You can take a look at what she has made over at the new Etsy store here. Additional items will be added in the next two weeks.
Picos pictures
More photos from this incredible area of Spain, about 4 hours from our home.
Right and Wrong
But the most remarkable thing is this. Whenever you find a man who says he does not believe in a real Right and Wrong, you will find the same man going back on this a moment later. He may break his promise to you, but if you try breaking one to him he will be complaining ‘It’s not fair’ before you can say Jack Robinson.
Lewis, C. S.. Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis Signature Classics) (p. 6). HarperCollins. Kindle Edition.
Running through the mountains
Here are some photos from a race in the Aquiliano Mountains behind our house. You can click here to read the race report.
Walking with God through Pain and Suffering
Book: Keller, Timothy. Walking with God through Pain and Suffering. Penguin Books, 2013.
Point: Christianity has the unique answer to meaningful suffering because Christianity is about Christ, the suffering yet conquering King.
Path: This book is divided into three parts, Worldview, Theological, and Practical. All are well articulated and helpful.
Sources: Keller’s standard bibliography ranging from contemporary theologians and philosophers to ancient sources.
Agreement: This is the first book I would hand to someone dealing with, or walking alongside someone in the midst of suffering.
Personal App: Suffering is an incredible opportunity to see my inadequacy and God’s sufficiency.
“God allows evil just enough space so it will defeat itself.” (Keller)
Riaño
During a short trip to the Picos de Europa, I found a village I want to spend more time in. It sits alongside a reservoir which has now covered several villages. The mountains rise up from the turquoise water, inviting us to explore.
Caín
A couple months ago we visited a village called Caín in the Picos de Europa. An incredible place to visit, and the hike along the gorge was absolutely breathtaking…especially when there are no guardrails and you have a 5 year old.
