Here we are at the beginning of a mudslinging year. Republicans are ripping each other. Democrats are biting each others backs. In a few months when the primaries are over, they will be kissing and making up. Second and Third place finishers will be eager to know if they will be the Vice Presidential candidate.

I read online this morning that this is the first US presidential election since 1928 in which neither the president nor the vice-president is standing in the primaries, seeking re-election. Bush faces term limits and Chenney is not interested.

I am going over the candidates and trying to see who I thing would represent me the most. Who do I think would run our Country the best possible way? To be serious about picking the best President, I must go beyond the beauty contest of television commercials and debates. I must start with what I believe, and what I stand for.

I have had to decide what I believe is right for border security, the War in Iraq, terrorism, health care, moral issues, ethical issues, etc. Then, I have to try and find a candidate that reflects those beliefs. Who is the closest to what I believe.

Unfortunately, I think most Americans decide on a candidate, by “gut feeling”. Which one looks, acts, dresses, presents themselves, the most professional, clean cut, polished, whitest smile, perfect hair. We don’t even know what we believe, we don’t research and give it that much thought.

Just wanted to get you thinking about it early. The Texas primaries are March 4th.

=pastor

It is so interesting how nothing really changes tonight. The clock strikes midnight and a new year is born. We chunk the old calendar and hang up the new one (after we have transposed the important dates).

Mentally, this gives us a fresh start. This is healthy and good. I have no problems with it. I use the new calendar to refresh my goals, analyze how things went last year, read over my journals, plan out schemes for new dreams.

I commit to praying, fasting, and reading the Bible in 2008. I want everything to be laid on that foundation. I know that if my relationship with Jesus Christ is intimate, it will make me a better husband, father, teacher, lover, friend.

I am excited about your quest for intimacy with God also.  How will this effect the peripheries of your life? Intimacy with God can do nothing but improve and empower you.

=pastor