This past Tuesday I made my way to IHop, where they were giving away free pancakes.  I did my best in knocking down 4 large chocolate chip pancakes.  I think I could have done more but I got “sweeted” out!  So there you have it.

Dallas Willard is one of my favorite authors.  His thought process and outlook on life always challenges me in my own walk and relationship with the Lord.  I was reading something today and came across a quote of his that is very stirring.  Let me know your thoughts…

“The greatest enemy of intimacy with God is service for God.”

Today is officially “Pancake Tuesday” or better known as Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday.  Today marks the last day before the Christian season of prayer and fasting called Lent. Lent marks the 40 day long season of prayer and fasting before Easter.  The 40 days most commonly represents the 40 days Jesus wandered the desert.

The purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer through prayer, fasting, self-denial in commemoration of Jesus’ death and resurrection, celebrated on Easter.

In the years past, I have never paid much attention to Lent. This year I am going to do things a little different.  First, I am going to go out and eat as many pancakes as I can eat today (I will make sure to blog about the number of pancakes I eat!).  Secondly, I am going to take every Friday of Lent to fast for 24 hours in preparation for Easter and the start of Harvest.  [The plan being to fast from supper Thursday night to supper Friday night.]  Thirdly, I am going to abstain from sweets for the entire 40 days of Lent.  The third probably being the most difficult for me to fight against!

As the season of Lent is upon us I would love to have company and accountability in this endeavor.  Would you consider fasting along with me as we prepare for the start of Harvest.  In doing so…please take the time to lift the church, our team, and the community up in your prayers.  Furthermore, I would love to hear your stories.  Let me know what the season holds for you, where you desire growth, and how the journey is endured.

Well, another major step has been taken and that is we are now officially incorporated.  Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and goodness during the entire process!

Brian and Tirsa Baker are much more than die hard Phoenix Suns fans.  They have a tender heart to help children experience and understand the love of God.  Brian has faithfully served in the Children’s ministry at Red Mountain Community Church over the past five years, the later two years as the Director of Children’s ministry.

Both Brian and Tirsa are graduates of Grand Canyon University.  Brian is currently working on his Masters at Phoenix Seminary while Tirsa enjoys working as a pediatric physical therapist here in Mesa.  In their free time you can find them watching sports, visiting local bookstores, or feeding the ducks at the park with their son, Keith.