in the trench

Picture Speaks Truth

2010-12-25T23:32:00.002-05:00

So change is good right? Making a change is good, it just takes a while to feel good about the change. Why is it hard to get a feel for everything you've got to do to make everyone around you comfortable? Well really no answer I suppose. But hey this year will be good for us all. Making some good strides this year for everything around me. I am so mixed with emotion but know that my back is up against the wall to make things great. Tell ya what let's pray for each other this year, whoever you are.
LZ

Family Life Minister

2010-11-18T21:08:00.001-05:00

Anyone curious? Let me here your thoughts of what that title means to you? Comment away...

Transition

2010-11-18T20:57:00.004-05:00

Transition is such a loaded word isn't it?
I like to think that making significant changes in your life are good for you, but I have found that they have only been stressful. Over the past year my family and I have been dealt some awful hands. I tell ya the church is not supposed to act the way it has. People can be awful, honestly non-Christians may even be nicer. When you think there are people behind you and support you they are not there at all.

Pretty crappy and low.

As I look back over the past few months of our transition let me tell you I wish I could have brought some folks with me. They were and still are important people to my daily functions of life. My wife would concur for sure. I have made some great strides in ministry over the last 10 years, significantly the last 5. When we announced our resignation I never would have guessed that there was a secret celebration, but there was, WOW. Remember I don't wish bad things on people, but good thing God is merciful.

I am going to make the best of this transition...I hope to see you more here

Oh the camp experience

2010-06-22T15:01:00.004-05:00

Yeah so do you remember those days of childhood church camp?

Do you remember those simple days of church camp?

I do!

This week at camp was great for me cause it took me back, it took me back simple. That may not sound familiar or make sense but to me it makes alot of sense. You know this day an age all of us deal so much with media and electronics - to the point that we are so addicted and don't even recognize that. That's sad. This camp was simple it
didn't have hi-tech climbing walls, lights, sound, A/C or blobs it had a few cabins, chapel, and wide open fields. It took me back. It was nice to be cleansed for the week but right now in your life what does this all look like or sound like?

Some of us need to simplify our lives or else, right?

Simple doesn't mean anything bad or cheap, it just means no distractions. So there it is plain as day. What is your distraction? How can you make life simple again?

Oh the Heart...

2010-04-19T15:00:00.002-05:00

So we have started a small group at our home oh late fall last year and have been going strong since. We decided that we would do a "womens" study and then do a "man" study. Well we did the Staci Eldredge study Captivating. It was good. It was good to get a little deeper into the heart of my wife.

No its our turn, does that sound bad? Oh well...

We start tonight Wild At Heart by John Eldredge. I have read this book (yes, I read) a few years back and I tell ya it really added some thought provoking moments in my growth. I am at a huge crossroads in my life right now and I think God has put this study in my life for a purpose, I am ready to listen.

I went to a funeral today of a 36 year old man that grew up in this area and evidently made a huge impact on lots of people. One of the things that I found interesting during this time (remember this was a funeral) was the love that filled this room from stories of a childlike man - a guy that likes to have fun. I learned something from this man today - be a child of God for my wife and children. Show them that its okay to enjoy life. Even when its not going the way you think it should.

So I am in search of my child likeness that I once carried with me daily. In life I had people laughing with dumb comments or just entering the room. So during this study I hope God reveals me again.

Anyone wanna journey with me?

The Wait IS On

2010-03-13T13:43:00.000-05:00

I am the worst person when it comes to waiting. I am without a shadow
of a doubt the most impatient person I know. How about you?

I put a lot of stock in a persons words, is that a good thing? I also
take things at face value when I read them especially when there is a
time limit. I am impatient as I am writing this. Weird stuff.

So what's the moral...

Prayer duh!

Another one bites the dust...

2010-02-24T11:59:00.002-05:00

So many good people come and go in your life don't they? Can you think of anyone? I know I can!

I consider everyone that I come in contact with typically important. There are some that definitely mean more to me of course. I tell you though when life gets tough and they leave it doesn't get any easier. My friend Nick is one that I can't remove from my mind. He had a great impact on my life and when he died I do feel a piece of me did too, weird isn't it. You put so much stock in people that you don't realize how much effect they have you at the time until there gone.

So here we go again right? Right!

Where I am in my life right now doesn't entitle me to tell alot but I will say that I am surrounded with some great people. Because of life's circumstances those folks are dropping like flies and leaving. Each conversation I just wait for the dreaded we are leaving comment.

God is bigger than any of my worries, troubles, fears, sadness's...but I am struggling to convince myself of that right now.

Badge of honor!

2010-01-26T15:16:00.002-05:00

This week has been a great week and really I haven't been happier with my sports. Many of you already know that I am an avid Kentucky fan. Well this week they reached a great place of number 1 ranking. What does that mean? Nothing really, as a fan it means alot but for those guys that play everyday it means alot. Coach Calipari said, "being #1 is not a burden but a badge of honor." Pretty solid as you think about it.

So what's your burdens that keep you from being proud to show your badge of honor? Today consider showing your badge of honor today!

What Now?

2009-12-08T16:45:00.003-05:00

This is my thinking pose - anyway enough of that silliness. Now what? Everything around you seems to be good for a while and in a moment it all crumbles or crashes. My goodness it seems that my life has been that way, which is why I try to hold onto all of those good moments. One of those good moments happened just this past week. My family and I traveled to Orlando to visit Disney - you know home of imagination. I tell ya it was that for me. My favorite point of the entire trip was just the bonding time the connection with my boys. Don't get me wrong the connection with my wife is there, it just took this trip to see how special she is in my life and how special those 2 little boys are too. The whole imagination week was great and yes great memories were burned deep into my memory.

BUT...

Coming home is when it all seems to unravel greatly. You see I am a minister at a church and for me this isn't a job its a mission God laid in front of me to accomplish. I tell you this its a difficult mission. I do see how easy it is for buddies of mine to throw in the towel when it gets tough or when you seem that know one believes in you any longer. That's where I'm at right now - a boulder has fallen on top of me and I want to run, but there's the competitive side of me that says to let them win. Honestly don't think anyone is out for me but when your clumped together it seems there's no other choice. Its hard to tell people to stick it out when you see that the end has come and gone. I tell ya people shock me. They really don't have the sense to consider the families they are affecting. This is mine they say - I say that's totally wrong. I know all of this seems harsh but remember this is what blogs are for right.

So in the midst of all of this crumbling I had a chance to spend part of the day with Mitch. I am happy for him maybe even a bit envious but who wouldn't be when all around you, you've got support coming out the ears. Honestly I am happy for him and his new church. This is where there is hope for all of us right. One day God will take reign back over this church and HIS intentions will be accomplished with whoever is left - right? My attempt right now is to encourage. Encourage everyone that it will be better and it will be okay even if it all looks bleak. Let this be the start of some encouragement around here.

Philippians 1:3-10
3I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

7It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me. 8God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

9And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

Isn't it great to get encouragement from the place we have faded from THE BOOK. So now we should try it.

So what now?

Any thoughts welcome -

The Word Is Out

2009-11-24T16:09:00.002-05:00

Please don't say anything to anybody with what I'm about to tell you!

?okay

Have you ever started a conversation with those words or for that matter heard someone start a conversation this way? I am sure we all have. For many of us we heard these words and after wards they just ate at you and you felt like you just had to tell someone who would listen. Anyone?

Isn't it sad when we say those words in complete confidentiality and really truly mean it and soon find out that so and so heard from so and so. So the reason I ask all this and say all this is just this - why can't we keep our mouths shut when we need too. I don't know about you but when many people get in the conversation that weren't included things get ugly.

God sure is looking down on this world with a bit of a sad look 'cause of the hurt and damage that we do when we don't obey the requests of our friends.

Give It A Try

2009-11-19T15:25:00.002-05:00

Caedmon's Call wrote a song or covered a song a time ago called "Stirring" it has been a song that has been in my mind since college. I preached at Fortville Christian Church and decided to end my sermon with this song. I hope you enjoy. Comments are great if you would like.

Talk Isn't Cheap!

2009-10-28T19:11:00.003-05:00

How about this for a starter:
Sticks and stones may break my bones,
But words will never hurt me.

or this one:
I'm rubber your glue,
Whatever you say bounces off of me and,
Sticks to you.

Aren't those sayings just crazy? I wish those were really true in the sense the you can really make that happen. There are times when we say things without realizing the deep destruction that its doing. There are times when you say things that make you feel better but you instantly sense the hurt. Anybody ever been there?

God says don't let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but it just slips out. We need to start learning to control our tongues, actions, and hearts - of course we need to quit letting others control us as well. Shame on us.

So the fix is, use your time with God to fix your downfalls, but use those times to build you up. Not to be better than anyone of course but just to make God's kingdom look and smell as sweet as honey.

So words cost ALOT don't they?

Running Low

2009-10-08T15:28:00.002-05:00

So yeah the other day I was driving along and sputter, putt, nothing. Come on you all know the feeling when you feel helpless and frustrated. As I was driving up to the stop sign my car began to have some physical signs that something was just not right. I was right - my car died. Let me clarify something because I am known to drive vehicles to the brink of emptiness, this isn't my fault. Honest. My gas doesn't work any ways so I have to keep an eye on the mileage. The mileage wasn't anywhere close to the empty point but it happened. The dreaded, daggum car died at the stop sign. I got out to see what I can really do on an empty tank of gas on an incline. I had the bright idea to push it myself - wrong idea 'cause it just rolled backwards. So I waited for some nice knight in shining armor or whatever to come and save me. Of course you have the gawkers and those who you think are capable of stopping and don't, you know those people 'cause YOU are those people. There were to spritely gents in a white pick up truck that could've helped me but were mad at me for taking up space. As I thought they were going to roll down their window and ask if I needed any help they drove off looking. As I stared in complete frustration, I just needed to move my car. So longer story short, some folks helped me push my car and I got gas and all is well.

Now what happens to you when you begin to sputter and putt and run out of gas?

What are your reactions to life? Do you jump to conclusions? Do you blow up easily? Do you just want to be left alone? If that's you well all thats okay but remember our reactions to our wives, children, and random innocent door knockers can really change the flow of an even worse day to worser. Well have to know by now its all going to be okay because we just need to put a little more fuel into life to get us a litter further. I am under the belief that God is coming back and I hope you are and I sure want to get my life in order today to prepare for my God's arrival.

How are you preparing?

Are you still empty?

Go fill up now...

LZ

Weight Loss & Disney!

2009-09-29T15:13:00.005-05:00

So I suck at this diet thing - okay really my will power is lacking a bit. However the other night watching Biggest Loser and having a son ask the most innocent question struck me hard. He asked, "Dad how heavy are you?" I cried. If you read this or feel the need to push me along I need it badly. There is a lot of stress, pressure, sadness in and around my life that I just can't buck. Which then causes that unwanted (or wanted) eating.

I guess one of my goals personally is for my wife to look at me and really truly notice the change and she has, but to see a huge physical change is important to me.

Disney is like 38 days away and I have lost only 7lbs. I have a ways to go to reach 300(41lbs).

Here we go again (round 2) ding!

Lead on!

2009-07-22T10:01:00.000-05:00

On the road again

2009-07-20T10:26:00.002-05:00

Our youth group is traveling today to Carbondale, Illinois to the campus of Southern Illinois University for a week of MOVE. For many of you MOVE is better known as CIY. MOVE is an amazing week of learning, worshiping, and fellowshiping. So far as we are sitting on the bus Its great to hear the buzz of excitement about what they are going to experience. I tell you what though that there are about 12 students who have not experienced MOVE and I am excited to see them glean and soak everything in. I will tell you that from day one to day five is amazing to observe and sit back and smile at Gods amazing way. So with all that being said we are in the road again to journey into the presence of God. Join us on the trek!

In The Storm

2009-07-15T10:11:00.003-05:00

See if you remember this song and if you haven't heard it well check it out: In the storm, In the storm, In the storm - I am safe in the hands of the Lord.

Its amazing how those words truly ring loudly right now in my life. What a nice reminder. So many times we cry and complain like the song so nicely puts it - In the storm, In the storm, In the storm. While in the storms of life we cry, complain, and bicker but the end of the song is such a peaceful reminder that I/You/We are safe in the hands of the Lord.

I am thankful that one day when all is said and done that I will be safe in the hands of the Lord. So the question or thought today is this, will you be safe in the hands of the Lord or are you so lost in the storms of life right now?

Let this be the challenge to you today that no matter if your drowning or high ontop of the roof of safety you will one day be freed from the storms but you have to continue to fight for the glory.

Let freedom ring

2009-07-05T21:03:00.001-05:00

What do you see?

2009-07-02T09:53:00.003-05:00

So what do you see?

I think your instant response would be a person puddle jumping, right? Look again.

What do you see?

Don't you see the reflection? What do people see when they see you, who do you reflect? The truth is many of us don't reflect Christ. We reflect the world for all to see. You tell the world, you tell the Church you are different but know one can see that. Doesn't Christ call us to take the cross and follow HIM? Instead we say, "I believe!" But you can't see it. I heard it said once that we wear Christ great for 1-2 hours on Sunday but for 166 hours a week we reflect the world. Now to be fair we may not reflect evil things, but do people know your belief in God?

What do you reflect?

What does your Church reflect?

Ephesians 4:1-6
1As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

This is what we are to reflect. Its time to stop pointing faults at other people ('cause that's what Satan wants) and realize to fix a problem we have to shoot past our own. So from reading the Ephesians passage who/what do you reflect? There is a dying world out there and God has sent us to bear our relationship with Him to everyone. Not everyone is going to accept it. Not even our very own Church people are going to want to do it.

BUT SOMEONE HAS TO DO IT. Do you catch the emphasis there? If you feel the tug then your the one, if you don't sit back for awhile and we will get to you.

Who are you reflecting?

What do people see?

What burns you?

2009-06-29T15:00:00.003-05:00

I was messing around with my wife's new camera and shot this really interesting picture, I hope you like it.

So the question what burns you can have many answers right? Let's go from the standpoint of your walk with God. For many of us the people in the church burn us with discouraging words, disheartening looks, and of course lack of acknowledgment. How about leadership (i.e. staff, elders, deacons) in the church; they can burn us from moral failure, lacking spiritual zeal, no depth, not visiting, not singing your favorite song, change, acknowledgment, asking for commitment, etc.

You see all of the list above are things that burn us away from spiritual depth with Christ, but the true question is what burns you for Christ?

Many of you have had those sad experiences happen to you in your lifetime that have caused you to walk away or stray. Remember faith isn't measured merely on men, its between us and God. Think back to that day when you accepted Christ for the first time at church camp or church; what was that burning sensation like. You were unstoppable. On fire. But life happens and we get our fires put out. Think today for a moment in your Church or our Church who has put your fire out? Its time for you to step up and BLAZE a trail for the glory of God, its not time to sit back any longer. (que Braveheart theme music)

Hey Church people did you hear me...FIGHT

Oh the daily grind

2009-06-04T13:53:00.002-05:00

Well it has been a few days since I traveled 12,000 miles across the world and I can say that I am about to be back on track. Over the last several days I have been in a bit of a daze which is expected. It has taken a little bit longer to get a move on with life, ministry, and myself...I suppose I just need to suck it up. Since I have been back I have hit the ground running full steam ahead. Still I am in a fog. Expected. Over the past several weeks things have really changed in my mind, things that I can't share right now. But coming home to conversations and catch up has been sad. I would just ask that you throw a prayer or two up for my family and its surroundings. This sadness has definitely caused it to be more difficult to move forward. Unexpected. Can't really suck it up. Please pray as the summer leaps upon my family and I, that I stay in control of that schedule.

Until another day...LZ

Now what?

2009-05-31T05:06:00.000-05:00

Well as you can see from the picture we are well on our way home. It
is going to take eleven hours to get home. My family is probably
still asleep and don't know how excited I am to see them. I was tell
people yesterday that I was ready for a kiss.

This trip has been amazing and I know there will be tons of questions
and curiosities too. I am sure this trip will effect me some how but
hopefully my outlook will be different forever. The scriptures are
seen differently now. The challenges from Mark Moore and Mark Scott
were amazing and much of there words will stick for a long time.
Thanks to them for this experience and thank God for their spirit.

To all the folks I traveled with it's been fun and until the next
time. I hope you have enjoyed this blog and enjoyed the perspective
from my eyes.

But I have some hugs and kisses to attend to...LA

Sober Ending

2009-05-30T10:13:00.000-05:00

Today we awoke and drove to the of Vatican or as we have heard it as
Vatican City. Many of you have heard of the Vatican more as the place
of the Pope. We went through the Vatican museum and saw art pieces
from Michelangelo and the other guy that is slipping my mind. They
were pretty neat but honestly sewing art isn't my favorite even this
was historical it was cool.

We next went into the Sistene Chapel which hoses wonderful art pieces
on the ceiling of old testament significance. We then made our way in
St. Peterl's Basilica and saw the seat of the pope as this is his
personal worship place seating capacity 60,000 standing. This was a
beautiful church with many ornate statues to dead popes bodies, quite
interesting.

The next part of the day was definitely a culmination of our entire
trip. We headed to the site of Paul's beheading. At this site was a
small section of the original road where Paul walked as we walking on
this road to enter the church it was very emotional. In the church
there are 3 natural springs which is a sign of where Paul's head had
touched ever since then there were these springs. From here we headed
to St. Paul's basilica and saw the burial place of this amazing martyr.

The sobering moment pictured is of the Catacombs. The catacombs were
a place for Christians to bury there families 'cause most of these
believers didn't have money to formally bury. As we walked through we
can sense the presence of God amongst the tombs. One thing you must
know is that Christians didn't fear death like most of the Romans
because they knew something was better coming.

That is surely true today and we must never forget that something
better is to come. Don't quit fighting the good fight of faith.

Apostle Paul's Roman Imprisonment

2009-05-30T09:47:00.001-05:00

I must say that last I talked to my wife and boys and what a breathe
of fresh air. They are wonderful and I owe Becca big time. One thing
is for sure I have grown closer to my family as I have been gone.

Today started out amazing as a picture in my head came alive. Many of
you have seen Gladiator the movie, well we started our day in the
presence of gladiators. The Rome coliseum sat 70,000 people in it's
hay day and games went on for over 100 years. The games were pretty
much a sly move of the emperors of the time to gain them more power.
Apparently during the games it was free entry, free food, and beer.
This was a sure way to swoon the people.

From here we moved over to the parthenon and watch an actual
excavation take place. But as we moved through this royal place we
came to a solemn place on this trip that has hit me in the face from
being on this trip. We came to the place whee Paul and Silas were
locked in prison before Paul was beheaded. Before we entered we read
Philemon and realized that during our ministry we are going to hurt
people and burn bridges. I guess that may be why I am here and because
of the situation in Texas the Fankhausers and myself were asked to
enter the prison first. This was an emotional moment to be in the
actuall place where a man on fire awaited what was next on his
ministry journey. The picture shown is from the dark dungeon prison.

We had lunch in Pantheon square and went to little pizzaria shops and
ate a bruschetta and tomato sandwich. But the dessert was a Gelato
not ice cream as we were corrected by our Italian guide who is
amazing. It was good real good.

Until tomorrow...LA

Pay unto Caesar his due.

2009-05-28T15:14:00.000-05:00

We had a scenic view drive today along the coast of the Ionean Sea.
It was very beautiful. Our visit today took us to the city of
Corinth. This city was a place of worship but not what you think.
Corinth was under the watchful eye of the Temple of Aphrodite the sex
God. This town was was very involved in sexual activities, we won't
go into great detail.

Corinth did do some things right when Paul arrived they accepted
people where they are in their lives. The churches today sure could
take some things away from Corinth. We(our Churches) are so stuck in
our traditions that we forget about Jesus' resurrection. We focus on
music, order of worship, decorations an miss the hurting people any
amend out there. In order for us to be like Corinth we need to re-
evaluate our motives.

Check our more if the situation in I & II Corinthians.

We have just a few days left beofre I embrace my family. I am sorry
for the delay in the blogs please understand that paying for Internet
at the Hotels gets expensive. I want so bad to hear your voices or
even just chat. Hopefully tonight.

Congradulations graduates on your big achievement.

We visit the Colosieum tomorrow, I am pretty excited 'cause of the
warriors that fought there. Hopefully good pictures to come...LA

Night scene

2009-05-27T10:17:00.000-05:00

This is a view from Mars Hill at night.

Runners take your mark...

2009-05-27T10:16:00.000-05:00

Well if you understand that statement you know that we have arrived in
Athens. Athens is home to Socrates, Plato, Xeno, etc. This a place
of great intelligence, but most confused spiritually. Today we walked
alot but we saw the Parthenon, Athens government central. There were
so many people and you can see the frustration on workers at the
locations. There is so much history on this piece of property. Last
night we walked a few blocks from our hotel and overheard a opera
going on. It was a nice sound ringing out. We even saw centurions
and others in costumes which kind of makes you dream a bit.

We went over to Mars Hill the place where Apostle Paul preached to
these very intelligent, stoic, and misguided people. Have you ever
tried to tell someone about God to a person who is smart, stubborn, or
unsure? It's hard to explain Jesus' resurrection to those people.
Paul on Mars Hill knew this but coming to his pinnicle in his travels
knew it was important to speak truth.

Honestly this is our job still today to tell about Jesus' resurrection
even if we/I are/am afraid.

We read I Corinthians.

After our start this morning we had a day to explore Athens on our
own. So I shopped for...wouldn't you like to know.

Well I am unable to use Internet because it coat quite a bit so I am
waiting until Rome. Sorry for the delay but my money is running short
with the Euro sucking our American dollar (1,45e for ever $1.00 US).
I believe that tomorrow is an exciting day in Rome as Manchester
United play Barcelona, I think we will miss the craziness. This is a
big deal. Pretty exciting huh Thomas Sears.

I am ready to hug my family I hope today has been a great day and am
looking forward to hear how your interview went Becca. I am proud of
you. I love you Becca, Dean, and Maddox. Just few more days.

And we have arrived!

2009-05-26T14:36:00.000-05:00

Well tonight we are sitting on Mars Hill in Athens, Greece. What a
site. Today we went to Delphi a city fortified by the hills below and
steep mountains above. We saw some amazing 3D original statues. This
was also a place where some of the first Olympic games took place.
This location was the site for the Temple of Apollos. The remains we
a as were awesome and well preserved.

Day of surpises!

2009-05-25T12:42:00.000-05:00

First off let me tell you that after being in bed for a bit we felt an
earthquake. Nothing to be alarmed about just for a split second and
gone. I guess you can say surprise #1.

We headed out of the city of Thesaloniki and on our way to I don't
know except on to Berea or Virgena. On our way we stopped for
surprise #2 this will only interest you if you are history buff. We
stopped at the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Very cool start
except it is hot. We beautiful mosaic floors and huge plots where
homes were and these were big 'cause of the city where royalty lived.
The town was called Perma.
We stopped at the site where Paul preached in the city if Berea again
beautiful mosaics.

Surprise #3 took place after lunch and worth the wait. The site we
saw was not on our itenerary at. So we made our way into the gates,
let me set this up this way. After we left this morning our guide
pointed of the huge mounds which were tombs. These specific tombs
were in regards to the land owners this was an honor. First off this
site was great 'cause we went into one of these mounds again
clueless. Okay enough suspense. We went to the tomb of Emperor...

Phillip II and his wife and son. Do you know who Phillip was? He was
Alexander the great's father. This tomb was found ingredt condition
now we didn't walk in the tomb but this museum had much of the
remnants that were in the tombs. Keep in mind this was royalty. We
saw huge gold boxes gold crowns. Unfortunately we could not take
pictures they were all over us on that one. But the artifacts we saw
were great.

Surprise #4 comes later.

Let me tell you a bit about what we do while we drove some of you
might think we just sit back and sleep, we don't. During all of our
long portions of the treks we have lectures and I am learning alot
from the wisdom of Mark Moore and Mark Scott. The words that thy
share I am like everyone else eating it up. And of course our guide
talks too. Then we sleep some. Today was difficult to sleep only
because we climbed high in the mountains switching back and forth.
This was the first time I ever felt car sick. I got over that
quickly, but aparently I wasn't the only one.

Surprise #4 came after we came down the mountain. We hit the town of
Meteroa again an unplanned visit. We stopped at a place where the
monks and the nuns live even to this day. We stopped at the nunnery
of St. Barbera. This was a place where where the mountains shot up
from the ground to the sky and the monks originally built monastariea
on top of these mountain fingers. Wow wow wow. The view was
awesome. We stopped at an active nunnery to look at the chapel.
Picture above.

After we left there we went to an Icon factory a place where they
reproduce icons from inside the Greek Orthodox Church. It was okay my
thought a tourist trap.

We are now at our hotel and making our way to...stay tuned to tomorrow.

I was disappointed last night that we didn't have access to a server
but tonight we do. So catch up on two days worth.

Becca I love you an pray that you interview and day tomorrow goes
good. I miss you all and can't wait to kiss your faces.

Tune in tomorrow...LA

Walked literally on biblical history.

2009-05-24T12:48:00.000-05:00

As the night ended last night we walked in the Agean Sea but some swam
and some avoided sea urchants. Probably a good idea, peeing in
someone didn't sound fun.
The hotel we stayed in last night was top of the list from the view,
shower, and food. Keeping in mind today was the Sabbath day we headed
to a place that for me topped everything so far and we haven't evev
made it to Rome yet. Today we saw the prison where Paul and Silas
were. Read Acts 16 for a reference point. We saw the Roman bema or
magistrates office where Paul and Silas were beaten, I got a little
choked up. Have you figures out yet that we were in Philippi. The
stories the scriptures are so alive it's amazing. We then drove over
to see the place where the demon possessed woman Lydia was baptized.
Here we sat and worshipped, broke bread, and learned from God's word.
From here we ate lunch on the warf in Kavala fresh was amazing I had
red mullet that's right mullet. I saw others eat huge sardines,
octopus, chicken and hamburgers.
Well we are now in our hotel after visiting Thessoloniki. We saw from
a distance the location of Jason's house (acts 17). We did visit a
Greek orthodox church tonight and sat through some of the service very
interesting. This active basilica actually brought to life the
crumbled churches we have seen especially in Philippi. The city of
Thesaloniki is huge there are buildings and people everywhere. The
ancient city is still here but everything we see is built on top of
the city this is why our sightseeing is limited. Our chunk of the day
was in Philippi today and tomorrow we head to Berea.

Well Becca at this moment you have just gotten home from church and I
am sure you are enjoying then peace. It was wonderful to talk to you
last night. I sense my heart becoming sad but when I heard your voice
I instantly felt your presence. I love you oh so much and pray for
our hearts to grow only stronger. To my boys I love you very much and
to maddox I love you and don't worry daddy will be home soon. Dean
you are an amazing boy and I am loving coaching baseball but just
enjoying who you are, i love you my boy.

Oh let me end with this to get your curiosity, there is a surprise for
us in the morning, Mark was pretty excited so it must be good so stay
tuned.

From Troy to Greece. Bye Turkey.

2009-05-23T10:03:00.001-05:00

We started our day out with a beautiful view of the Agean Sea and
breakfast on the open aired deck. We ventured to the site of Troy and
well it was beautiful but not much to really look at. Our guide told
a great reprise of the Odyssey and that honestly brought the site alive.
We caught the 10am ferry and crossed the Straight. It was awesome to
see all the squid and jellyfish. We left and headed to a local
grocery store to say goodbye to Tansu but to say hello to the next leg
of the trip. But first we had to stop and eat a whopper and fries.
We headed to the border and crossed into Greece without any problems
always a good thing. Now we are at Hotel Lucu overlooking once again
the Agean Sea. This is the nicest of places this far the crystal
clear water is amazing. We wlare only 15 yards away from the beach.
We are to end our night with dinner and then a walk to see the sight
of Pauls shipwreck. This has honestly been a pretty last day. We
read Acts 16 and Philippians.

To my wife enjoy your peaceful house and sleep in and of course
relax. I hope camping was great and stress-free. I love you tons and
cannot wait to get to our hotel each night just to see what you ate up
too. Dean & Maddox I love you tons be good for mommy maybe I will
bring you home something special.

Till tomorrow...LA

A day of fresh stuff.

2009-05-22T13:20:00.002-05:00

Today was a day of driving but we had a few surprises along the way. We'll come to that in a bit. Last night I did laundry in the hotel sink and becca I must admit mixed lights and darks not shocked are you. Laundry washing was good thanks to he Haiti trip except nothing was dry so we will try again tonight. We set out early this morning for our first visit at thyatira (pronounced Tea-A-Teara) not much to see but the neat thing was that this was the only church of the seven that was in the plains all the other churches were in the mountains. Read revelation 2:18-29. We left from Thyatira and began our treck up the mountains to Pergamum (which by the way means what Elizabeth King in German=parchment=paper).
On the way to Pergamum we pulled off to the side of the road at a vendor and bought fresh of the tree cherries, oh yeah sooo good. We were asked to read Acts 19 & 20 on the way. A true description of what we are seeing in all the cities is found in Revelation 2&3, specifically for Pergamum 2:12-17. We climbed the mountains and one of the things I find interesting is how advanced everything has been especially with aquaduct systems, pretty clever. We parked and headed into the site and stopped first at Zeus' temple check out what verse v.13 says in ch. 2 what a clear description. The temple was in the shape of a horseshoe mainly signifying a seat or throne. We enters the theater next and what a view, this is the steepest theater with some awesome features in it. One was the fact they reused the rock face as seats and this was the first site to have a portable stage. Let me explain. When they needed the wooden stage they pulled it in and when it was not in use moved it to use as a sitting place to view the country-side. Cool huh? Because of this place being on a hill side and relying so much on the original rock they had to build retianing walls and with came support arches below it was amazingly beautiful.
Hopped back on the bus for our 2nd surprise of the day lunch at a rug factory. Denise you'll like pictures. We entered into the factory and watched a man sturring a pit of what looked like white mothballs any guesses to what it was; it was silk worn cacoons. In a hot pot he would loosen the silk pulling it all together and then winding it up, we got video. We saw there silk worm farm and we saw fresh drying dyed wool. We entered into another secret room like a mueseum or more or less a sales shop of carpets of all sizes. Here is where I thought of you Denise. We went into a room and sat around and watch an Amway sales picth on buy these carpets we were proba my shown hundreds of different shapes, sizes, and textures of carpets. All in the while enjoying Turkish pizza yes you read it right pizza on freshly made pits bread, best pizza ever sorry Papa John, all this plus drink for $3.00 or 5 Turkish Lira. After enjoying pizza we were then hounded to buy, some did sorry I didn't the cheapest pieces were $40 and those were purses. Now the most expensive piece was $3,200 all of silk.
We were expecting to make it Troy today bit arrived at our hotel at 9:30 and ate dinner in an open air Resturaunt overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Meal was awesome I had fresh salad, fried cheese roll, meat plate(lamb, meatballs, steak, and rice finished off with baklava). In the morning we head to Troy and take a ferry ride to Greece how exciting.

Some have asked so I will answer by feet are doing great enough starting stopping going on. Becca enjoy your boyless weekend and remember to do things you like. Don't watch slumdog millionaire I want to watch it with you, it is an awesome movie. I Love You.

Till tomorrow in Greece...LA

"Great us Artemis if the Ephesians!"

2009-05-21T11:36:00.002-05:00

Started our day out on top of the Heiropolis and visited the famous
hot baths.

We then drove 3 hours to Ephesus. Absolutely amazing!

Jet lag is catching up with me. Oh well I didn't come this to be tired. So we stopped at St. John's church and saw chunks of pieces of the church. We saw the synagogue man it was big. I got to see Apostle John's grave wow. Got to step down into the baptismal at the church it is a site. We drove from there to the 2nd site of Ephesus. To remind you pictures are on facebook. We actually got to see a city at it's natural site. Seeing the market place, fountains marble work, the library, the large 24,000 seat theater. Words can't describe what I saw but it was emotionally breathtaking. Today we read and would encourage you to do the same colossians and Ephesians. After we left there mind you this isn't just a stroll we were here for over 3 hours taking it all in and we didn't even notice. Oh yeah we went Jesus' mothers house you know Mary. We went into her house except it is now church and an actual service was taking place two nuns and a priest (be a good time for a joke) reading or quoting Latin scripture.

Let me tell you our hotel overlooks the Agean sea oh yeah balcony hangout time tonight. Except we have a change of plans for tomorrow we are going to the city of Troy remember Homers book. This is pretty exciting.

It's now 10pm and I'm tired and hoping the family is doing okay. God give rebecca peace and a breath of patience tonight or should I say in this moment. Well to all who read. My hope is that am bringing Paul and the cities to life for you.

Until tomorrow LZ

Lunch in Philadelphia

2009-05-20T11:12:00.002-05:00

Let set some things up for you here, we started our day Izmir or Smyrna. We walked a few blocks to the church but were unable to enter because it is still active. Active meaning worship still happens there and also nuns reside there. For reference for the church of Smyrna check out revelation 2:8-11. This really the only positive comments of the seven churches. This was also the area of Polycarps death as a martyr. Awesome history this far. I mentioned sardis which was the next location we hit, we left and ate lunch in Philadelphia good stuff fresh out of the oven warm pita bread can you taste it. We ate and left to visit the site of the church, nothing left of the church except basement. What was truly amazing was the walls they were huge gated pillars which if you remember the city were the location of trade, market, courts, beggars, etc. Read revelation 3:7-13. We had a 2 hour bus ride next to laodica. This truly amazng, it only has been uncovered for a few years, this is a live excavation. Laodiceais between two important points Colosea (cold water flowed from here because hi mountain location) and heiropolis (hot water flowed from this location, such is famous for hot water baths, the only other location like this is yellow stone) and this is where we are staying in Pamukkle. Read revelation 3:14-23, this now brings things alive especially in this scripture where it talks of lukewarm water.

Then we shopped buying more for the family handmade clothing and useable. We now are able to rest early as we start our day early in the morning. To my boys I love you and hope that I can impact you spiritually forever only instilling in you the importance of living out your faith. To my wife I am sorry for any of the times I have crushed your spirit. You are just as beautiful to me today as the first day I met you.

Until tomorrow. LA

Mosaic tile floor in synagogue

2009-05-20T11:11:00.002-05:00

Some facts here were that the gymnasium was a place of education and of course athletics. Again the synagogue was a mochary to this sight because of the paganistic things of this time. You can see the beauty here.

Jewish synagogue in Sardis

2009-05-20T11:10:00.000-05:00

Pool at gymnasium

2009-05-20T11:09:00.001-05:00

More gymnasium

2009-05-20T11:08:00.001-05:00

Gymnasium in Sardis

2009-05-20T11:07:00.001-05:00

What's left of the temple to the Prophetess Artimas

2009-05-20T11:06:00.002-05:00

This was a Tempe built to honor of Artimas in Sardis. This temple was never completed, this is proven the fact that the pillars don't have the complete fluting down the column only a few were started and partially left standing. What I found most interesting was the fact that there was a church built on the same sight as a "mochary" to Artimas. This church was an Orthodox church. However pagan this sight may have been this was our first sight church ruins. Completely beautiful. To put scripture with this read Revelation 3:1-6.

Fresh honey

2009-05-20T00:02:00.001-05:00

We figured out why Pooh was so happy, this is so good.

I figures out the picture situation

2009-05-19T16:39:00.003-05:00

More are on facebook. This is for Matthew, isn't the iPhone just great. Enjoy.

I figuer

2009-05-19T16:39:00.001-05:00

Blue Mosque

2009-05-19T16:38:00.001-05:00

Egyptian gift as part of the Hippodrome

2009-05-19T16:37:00.001-05:00

Spice Market

2009-05-19T16:36:00.000-05:00

God is good even when your not paying attention.

2009-05-19T15:39:00.003-05:00

Started the morning off with a great breakfast except for the bright neon juices like the kiwi juice was green like grass. Our selection for breakfast consisted of of course cheese, olives, and tomatoes. But we had a variety of pastries, sausage, eggs, yogurt, and cereal. I tell you though the cappucino's are amazing. Enough of that talk.

For pictures please check out my facebook.

Today we started out at the world famous spice market. This was the place to buy eztravagant teas and spices like saphran. The teas smelled awesome. There were meats, cheeses, baklava, Turkish delights, and lots of pottery and fabrics. We unloaded the bus in the middle of the hippodrome (the civic center of Roman Constantinople). Chariots raced around this U-shaped stadium on wicker baskets with wheels of course with 2-8 or more horses pulling at high speeds. On this walk we entered a famous mosque called the blue mosque. This of course was my first time to enter a "live" mosque. We had to take our shoes off in respects to the people not their God. It was quite beautiful. We observed their prayer time. We saw a few boys dressed in elaborate dress in preparation for their entry into manhood as they awaited their circumcision. Ouch! We left the blue mosque and headed across the street to enter the haggia sophia (divine wisdom). So stunning after being rebuilt because of the earthquakes in the ninth and tenth centuries became a model for Christian churches in Greece and Italy. After lunch of chicken, rice, and meatballs we left to head for the church of Chora. This church was built in the fourth century with awesome tile art and fresca paintings which were covered over in time but was ordered to be unmasked in the eleventh century. The pictures were nothing I have ever seen and can't be described, but the description is lots if gold tiles and amazing precision of placement which took six months for a piece that was six feet tall and three feet wide. Again pictures to come later view on facebook now though.

We have now flown 45minutes north to Izmir(Smyrna) where we are staying the night and at 7:30 am tomorrow will start heading to the seven churches of revelation.

Oh I mentioned good God is, here is what he revealed to me this morning. Paul is reminding (this is May 19th of our journey) Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:11-14, "There will be times when you will have to say no; you will want to say yes, and everybody around you wants you to say yes. There will be times when it will be embarassing to admit you are a Christian, but remember Jesus. He set the good example; he was 'the faithful witness' (Revelation 1:5) to the truth."

What are your thoughts here how does this speak to you? Comment and let me know. This spoke volumes to me today and quite fitting for this to be from Paul to a Timothy (someone called to do service for Him).

Goodnight for now, I was happy to talk to Becca and Dean, Maddox was sleeping probably safer that way. Oh how much I love my family.

LZ

Istanbul, Turkey

2009-05-18T13:28:00.002-05:00

Well where to start, some of you probably just said the begining. Ok! The beginning, we loaded our Alitalia flight in Chicago at 3pm Chicago time. I decided that I would take some Tylenol PM to help me sleep hard. In flight we flew up and over into Canada to head to Rome. The flight wasn't totally full which made for a more comfortable flight. Remember I took that Tylonol PM well they are magical. I slept hard until about 7 and it was time for dinner which was pretty good: fruit, meat tray, cheese, pasta, beef and veggies. Once that was done I don't remember much after that, it sleepy time again. We landed in Rome 7:42 (11:42 Indiana). We waited about an hour for hour next flight to Istanbul. This flight was great I was like my boys in the car out like a light before we left the parking lot and pretty well slept until the plain hit the ground.
We went through passport control and collected our bags with no issues which is good with a group of 37. We now meet Tansu (taun-sew) who right off the bat is a ball of energy, which makes for a great trip with someone who is excited about what they are showing. We had a change of schedule originally we were to start out with seeing the Blue Mosque, instead today we went to the Sultons Palace. Tomorrow is a national holiday celebrating children. So we travel straight from the airport to the palace. Some exciting things we saw was the original prtective walls to emperor Constantines palace, they were pretty pretty solid still. Of course as we to the left we see that soft but the view the other way was awesome too. We saw ships waiting there turn to pass from the Aegean Sea to the Black Sea. Seeing the fresh fish market was awesome to. The Sultons palace was a sight to from seeing things that I couldn't take pictures of like his clothing, swords, jewlry, and most of you womens favorite thing an 86 karat diamond, yeah wow. One of the interesting things we saw from a distance was the Prophet Muhammad's clothing stored in a gold case as well as the original Koran stored of course behind many layers of glass and gaurds. Traveling further along in a room off to the side there are men 24hours a day reading aloud the Koran, or singing. I do have pictures (yes I shot pictures) but will have figure out how to upload them later.

We arrived at the Kent hotel which is awesome (becca thanks for the washclothes) and unloaded our stuff and checked in and went straight up for dinner. Dinner consists of two salads and a fried cheese(yummy), rice and chicken with mashes potatoes on top. Dessert was baked rice pudding. Also, there was a trinket at the table look up "evil eye". After dinner took a short walk to get bottled water. Now it's time for bed early morning and full day ahead starting at 7am. Oh how I love mornings.

Hi dean and maddox I hope you are being good for mommy. I am looking for some fun toys to bring home I saw one a really cool one today. Hopefully I will see them again. I love you Becca and will hopefully chat at you soon.

Till the next update LZ

Kent Hotel Istanbul, Turkey

2009-05-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

Three things to learn from Mark Scott

2009-05-17T14:18:00.001-05:00

Three things to get out of this trip are:

Think of this trip as a pilgrimage not a tourist trip. 2 Corinthians
2:5

Be a disciple (learner, pupil, etc.). Ephesians 4:20

To be a witness, remember to represent his name.
1 Corinthians 11:1

Fitting Start

2009-05-17T07:35:00.000-05:00

As a citizen of Indiana I guess the appropriate saying is definitely
"start your engines". As I start this adventure many emotions are
inside of me worry, fear, sadness, excitement, and most definitely
anticipation.
Well to all of you who follow this adventure I hope you enjoy. I hope
that everyday I can fill you in on my thoughts and what I saw that day.
To my wife: I Love You and can't thank you enough for this chance.
To my boys: daddy loves you very much and hopes one day your dreams
will come true like mine are. The three of are definitely apart of my
fairy tale. Becca thanks for being my princess.
Well for now I say see ya.
LZ

Elzy Family Addition

2009-05-14T13:52:00.003-05:00

I will have to stop you right there in your steps, last night our 47 chicks started to hatch. It was pretty exciting all except for the peeping. They are cute and the boys are enjoying them hatching. God is so cool.

Rebeca hopes they are gone before I leave of course.

Family Day

2009-05-14T13:49:00.001-05:00

Today has been a great day as you can see by the picture. Today we
had family day as we went to the Childrens Museum and now we are
headed to get haircuts for both shaggy boys and the the boys will get
to play on the four wheeler they got Tuesday (thanks Linda).

Last night was definitely a biitersweet night with our graduation
banquet, we said farewell to 7 students. For me this group has been
one of the solid foundations and I am sad to see them go. However, in
that same breathe am looking forward to seeing differnt students begin
to step up and we are excited fir the new 7th graders to come in.

Well I am anxiously beginning to not be able to sleep as I have 2 full
days left until the "Trip". Pretty low key couple of days to come.

Pray for peaceful sleep over the next few days and keep Becca and the
boys top of that prayer list. It is starting to hit me that I am
leaving and so that emotion is starting to stir. I will miss my
family fifteen days is definitely along time away from my family.

11 Days to Turkey, Greece, and Italy

2009-05-07T20:31:00.003-05:00

I started packing today. I will have to say that packing for 15 days is quite difficult, but doable. I started checking more and more off my lists today and even began to straighten the ole office. I am looking forward to learning tons of new things maybe things that I have already learned but putting a picture with those lessons. I guess there are a few things to pick up between now and then packing little is really hard. My schedule between tomorrow and the 17th: Birthday party tomorrow, T-Ball game Saturday, church (celebrate Mother's Day) all day Sunday, Monday staff meeting and finish or tidy up video for Graduation banquet, Tuesday FREE (for now), Wednesday Youth Minister's meeting then Graduation banquet, Thursday spend day with family at the Zoo (that's the plan) then meeting that night, Saturday T-Ball game, and then we fly Sunday.

Wow right! Currently fighting a cold sore you can guess why, so much to do. Prayer is for God to make it through each day diligently but honorably. Keep us all well.

LZ

May 31st (Day 15): Rome/Chicago/Indianapolis

2009-05-07T07:00:00.009-05:00

Transfer to Rome International Airport for your return flight to Chicago, arriving in the afternoon local time. Then on to Indianapolis to anticipate seeing my family.

LZ

May 30th (Day 14): Rome

2009-05-07T07:00:00.008-05:00

After breakfast, in the morning tour some of the city's past splendor and pass by legendary monuments, palaces, ruins, squares and fountains. You will also visit the Catacombs of Santa Domitilla where the early Christians held their forbidden services and buried their dead. Drive to visit The Basilica of St. Paul. Outside the Walls which was founded by the Roman Emperor Constantine I over what was believed to be the burial place of St. Paul, where it was said that, after the Apostle's execution, his grave. This first edifice a memorial, called a cella memoriae, over his grave. This first edifice was expanded under Valentinian I. Continue to visit the Church of St. Paul of the Three Fountains, located just outside Rome. It is said to be built on the spot where St. Paul was beheaded by order of Nero. There are two other churches also located on the grounds.

LZ

May 29th (Day 13): Rome, The Eternal City

2009-05-07T06:59:00.008-05:00

This morning enjoy a city tour of Rome. Visit the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and Michaelangelo's frescoes, St. Peter's Basilica. Visit the Colosseum, the Forum and the Mamertine Prison.

LZ

May 28th (Day 12): Athens/Corinth/Rome

2009-05-07T06:59:00.007-05:00

Depart this morning for a sightseeing tour of ancient Corinth, seeing the Archaeological Museum, the Bema, and the Market Place and Temples. Corinth was home to St. Paul for 18 months. From the Bema at Corinth, Paul spoke to the Corinthians about Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. On the way to Corinth, we will stop for a few minutes at the Corinth Canal, which separates Peloponnese from the Greek Mainland and connects the two Seas (Ionian and Aegean).

LZ

May 27th (Day 11): Athens

2009-05-07T06:58:00.002-05:00

Morning city sightseeing of Athens which will include a visit to the world renowned Acropolis, with the ruins of the Parthenon, Erectheum and Propylea. Thereafter we will ascend Mars Hill, where Paul preached. Also, visit the Agora (ancient market place, and former center of Anthenian public life), the House of Parliament, the Tomb of the Unkown Soldier and the Palace, now called the Presidential Palace.

LZ

May 26th (Day 10): Kalambaka/Delphi/Athens

2009-05-07T06:57:00.005-05:00

This morning drive to visit Delphi the most important sanctuary, was the absolute guiding power to the Greeks. Visit The Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians the Theatre of the sanctuary and much more. Drive to Athens with a stop at Levadia.

LZ

May 25th (Day 9): Thessaloniki/Veria/Meteora

2009-05-07T06:56:00.007-05:00

Enjoy this morning tour of Thessaloniki where Paul preached during the winter of 49-50 AD and wrote two epistles to the ancient Thessalonians. See the ramparts of the city, the triumphal Arch of Galerius straddling the Via Egnatia, once a strategic artery of the Roman Empire. Depart for Meteora Monasteries stopping on the way at Veria. In ancient times this town was known as Berea or Beroea. Paul and Silas preached here and there is a monument dedicated to Paul.

LZ

May 24th (Day 8): Kavala/Philippi/Thessaloniki

2009-05-07T06:56:00.006-05:00

Tour Philippi, where Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe, sowing the seeds of Christianity. Here Paul baptized "a certain woman named Lydia" the first Christian convert in Europe. The Roman Forum, completely excavated, is from after Paul's time. Among the ruins, located on the rocky ledge above the town's main road, is the "prison" where Paul and Silas were thrown. In the rocks you will find inscriptions and carved reliefs of deities. It was in Philippi that Octavian and Anthony defeated Brutus and Cassius, last defenders of the Roman Republic in 42 BC. Continue to Thessaloniki, the former capital of Macedonia. Paul preached there during the winters of 49-50 AD and wrote the two epistles to the ancient Thessalonians. See the ramparts of the city, the Triumphal Arch of Galerius straddling the Via Egnatia, once a strategic artery of the Roman Empire.

LZ

May 23rd (Day 7): canakkale/Kavala, Greece

2009-05-07T06:51:00.003-05:00

Cross Dardanels strait from Asia to Europe, drive thru the Gallipoli War 1915 battlefields over Gelibolu and Kesan. Reach Greek Border at noon and cross to Greece. Continue into the modern port city of Kavala, ancient Neapolis, where Paul accompanied by Silas, Luke and Timothy, first set foot in Eurpoe. Aside from the great panoramas of Kavala, the city has a Byzantine castle, aqueduct, and visit the museum containing finds from ancient Amphipolis and Philippi.

LZ

May 22nd (Day 6): Kusadasi/Thyatira/Pergamum/Canakkale

2009-05-07T06:46:00.003-05:00

Depart in the morning north and visit Thyatira (Kaiser), which was famous for purple dyes, and Jezebel. View the ancient Temple. Continue to Pergamum, here was another one of the Seven churches. Visit Acropol, see the Altar of Zeus, Citadel, Trajan temple, amphitheater. Later Aesculapium which was the earliest healing Center. In the afternoon continue north, pass by in a distance Assos where Paul met Barnabas and walked to Alexander Troas where they sailed to Philippi.

LZ

May 21st (Day 5): Pamukkale/Heirapolis/Ephesus/Kusadasi

2009-05-07T06:42:00.003-05:00

In the morning visit ancient Hierapolis, the ancient thermal center. See the ruins and the calcium deposits, natural lake-warm pools. Continue to Ephesus. First visit the Church of St. John, it is the best preserved and the leading of the Seven Churches where St. John was buried. Walk thru the ancient city of Ephesus once a port town gateway. See the spectacular ruins and the Grand Theater where St. Paul preached. Visit the House of Mary where she spent her last days. Allow time for shopping.

LZ

May 20th (Day 4): Izmir/Sardes/Philadelphia/Laoddicea/Colosea/Pamukkale

2009-05-07T06:37:00.002-05:00

In the morning drive thru Izmir, site of Polycarp's death and the church. Start for a day of exploration of the Seven churches. Drive eastward to Sardes visit the Temple of Artemis (Diana), the Byzantine church, restored Synagogue and Gymnasium. Continue our drive to Alasehir (Philadelphia) visit the remains of the church. In the afternoon continue to Colossea, where one of the Seven Churches existed. Then visit Laodicea from 3rd Century. View the Church and the theater.

LZ

May 18th (Day 2): Istanbul, Turkey

2009-05-07T06:35:00.002-05:00

Upon arrival in Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, our guide will meet us and transfer us to our hotel. In the afternoon discover the city and visit Church of Chora and Spice Market.

LZ

May 19th (Day 3): Istanbul/Izmir

2009-05-07T06:29:00.005-05:00

Full day tour of Istanbul. In the morning drive to the old town and visit Hipodrome and the famous Blue Mosque, visit Topkapi Palace Museum, see the Sultan's Treasury and Porcelain collections. In the afternoon visit St. Sophia Church and The Grand Bazaar. Transfer to the airport in time to connect with our flight at the end of the day to Izmir (ancient Smyrna).

LZ

May 17th (Day 1): Indianapolis/Chicago/Rome/Turkey

2009-05-07T06:27:00.003-05:00

Boarding our overnight flight, we are off on the adventure of a lifetime to Istabul, Turkey.

LZ

Will apologize now!

2009-05-04T21:08:00.003-05:00

I can't apologize for how my grammar will be. This is for those of you who are teachers, Claire, and of course Matt.

LZ

12 days

2009-05-04T21:04:00.003-05:00

I guess at this point I am getting quite anxious. Really unsure of what to Expect, but really do know God has some big things in store for, I just feel it. I am excited to meet new people from all over the US and learn about there personal journey's to get to where they are now. I keep wondering what this blog thing will bring to anyone out there, but know that my prayer is for it to be encouraging. I want my fears, my excitements, the ah ha moments, and best of all the God moments. So as you begin to journey with me pray maybe for the first time or the 100th time. Pray that God will open thine eyes(King James) with bringing the word of God alive. Secondly, pray that my family (Becca, Dean, Maddox)will be safe, protected, and guarded from the world around them. They are my world and thank Becca for allowing me to take this opportunity to experience this journey. So join me as we travel alongside Jesus.

LZ

The Trip of a Lifetime

2009-04-29T14:48:00.001-05:00

Well now that you are here let me tell you what is happening. On May 17-31, 2009 I am traveling to Turkey, Italy, and Greece to experience the footsteps of the Apostle Paul. My goal is for you to experience the trip with me. So follow along and hopefully we together will learn something.

LZ