Cowboys Advance!

Drew Brewster and the Cowboys advanced into the second round of the playoffs with a 12-8 victory over the Benton Tigers.

The Cowboys got on the scoreboard quickly after capitalizing on a long drive in the first half. Following another score, the Cowboys' defense hung tough against an aggressive Tigers' offense.

Drew Brewster had another great game at center. The Tigers rotated three players throughout the game at the nose tackle position, but none were able to get past Drew. For the game, Drew did not give up a single tackle.

In the second half, with the game on the line, Drew did a great job playing linebacker as the Cowboys stopped the Tigers' last drive to win the game.

The Cowboys will play in the second round of the playoffs this Saturday.

Bulldogs/Cowboys Sports Beat

This past weekend witnessed successful campaigns by both the Bulldogs soccer team and the Cowboys football team.

The action commenced with the Bulldogs soccer team tying an unbeaten opponent 0-0. The Bulldogs defense continued its "bend, but don't break" pattern of playing in shutting out their opponent. Late in the game, goalie Hannah Brewster came up with a big save to solidify the shut-out.

After the game, the Bulldogs stood at 2-0-4 for the season.

Following Bulldogs' soccer, the Cowboys finished their regular season with a 28-0 victory over the Knights. Drew Brewster anchored an offensive line that consistently got the better of the defenders lined up against them.

The Cowboys finished the regular season at 5-1. They play Monday night (tonight) at 6:00 p.m. against the Tigers in the first round of the playoffs.

Back to the Bulldogs ...

Sunday afternoon, the Bulldogs capped off the weekend with a 4-0 win. The Bulldogs dominated the contest from start to finish. Midfielder Breanna Black got the scoring going by scoring a goal from midfield. Madi Walter then scored to give the Bulldogs a 2-0 lead. Goalie Hannah Brewster got in on the scoring to make it 3-0. Then a corner kick by the Bulldogs was accidently knocked into their opponents' goal by the one of the opponents.


Following Sunday's game, the Bulldogs record stood at 3-0-4 for the season. The Bulldogs resume play this Saturday in what will be their final game of the season.

Deconstructing Heroes

Recently, I came across the following quote by Maurice Broaddus:

"We love heroes, but we hate the example they set so we have to prove that they are no better than us. We seem to constantly compare ourselves to one another, as if we are trying to find a kind of redemption by trying to find our self-worth through others. Not wanting to have to live up to too high an ideal, this leads to an obsession with proving that our heroes have feet of clay."

Deconstructing heroes is something I have seen much more of in my generation and the one that preceded mine. It seems there is a constant struggle between romanticizing the past and deconstructing it. Hence, some people still speak glowingly of John F. Kennedy or Elvis, while others seek to shatter such heroes by propogating rumors and seeking to destroy their credibility.

While living in the South, I have not seen this done to anyone as much as Martin Luther King, Jr. On many occasions I have heard white people say they did not "like" him. Most of them cite his moral lapses. Few of them acknowledge his legacy. They seem to prefer to emphasize his "sins" rather than his "victories."

Heroes are heroes because, like us, they struggle and fall; but unlike most of us, they find the strength and the grace to rise from the ashes and become something or someone greater.

Growing up, one of my favorite comic book heroes was The Flash. Of course, the one I read about it was the one who followed the original Flash. At the end of The Flash's comic book series, he was charged with murder. His reputation was ruined. Public opinion turned so quickly. And in the end he discovered who really loved him. His story resonates because we can identity with it. All of us have been burned. All of us have experienced betrayal. All of us have fallen.

Those among us who are heroes choose to walk the difficult road to recovery, redemption, and rebirth. The rest of us choose to batter and bruise heroes, because "we are not willing to live up to such an ideal."

I have heroes, and they are heroes because I know their weaknesses and their sins, yet watch them soar to greater heights. They are my heroes because they break free from their past.

There is only one perfect "hero." As for the rest -- I celebrate, not their imperfection, but their perseverance.

To quote an old Kansas song:
"Carry on my wayward son
There'll be peace when you are done.
Lay your weary head to rest.
Don't you cry no more."

Heroes are meant to be celebrated, not deconstructed.

Cowboys Report

Drew Brewster and the Cowboys continued their winning ways this past Saturday by posting a 15-14 win over the Tigers.

The Cowboys were able to get their running game going, due to good blocking up front. On the defensive side of the ball, the Cowboys sealed the victory with an interception late in the game.

Drew Brewster matched up against a bigger nose guard, but despite the size difference, Drew held his own, allowing his man only one tackle the entire game.

The Cowboys are back in action this Saturday.

Three (ties) in a Row

The Bulldogs continued their season by registering their third consecutive tie Thursday night, 2-2.

Still attempting to find their way offensively, the Bulldogs struggled in the first half, until Hannah Brewster scored the first goal of the game with about 10 minutes left in the half.

Leading 1-0, the Bulldog coaching staff decided to make some changes that proved to be costly, as the opponent rallied to score two goals.

However, Madi Walter scored for the Bulldogs late in the second half to even the score. Despite a furious offensive surge at the end of the game, the Bulldogs were unable to convert en route to their third consecutive tie.

Christian Nation?

During a recent discussion in our Bible study group the term "Christian nation" was used to refer to the United States. Immediately, a spirited dialogue ensued by those who believe such a designation and those who question the veracity of such a term.

When it comes to calling things "Christian" there is a risk involved. As Rob Bell writes, "Christian is a poor adjective."

In the Bible the word "Christian" is used as a noun. It described a follower of Christ. Today, though, we have "Christian" books, music, magazines, clothing lines, bottled water, and even breath mints.

What gives?

A lot of it seems to be marketing. Christians are looking for "Christian" products. Christians want to listen to "Christian" music. Families like "Christian" radio stations because they are ... well ... family friendly. After all, there is no "Bob & Tom Show" on Christian radio, and as far as the kids are concerned, listening to "family-friendly" radio is safer.

However, it seems that by using "Christian" as a marketing designation we have equated the word with other terms. Christian is code for "family friendly." I understand calling something "family friendly." As a parent, it does not take long to realize how much media is not "family friendly." But why the designation "Christian"? What makes a rock group a Christian group?

If a group plays pop, rock, metal, or even (shudder the thought) country, then that group is categorized by that particular genre of music. The lyrics do not determine the genre, the music does. So, Lifehouse is a rock group comprised of Christians. It is not a "Christian" group in terms of music.

To promote such designations is to espouse exclusivism and breed the unbiblical notion of the need for a "Christian" community removed from the world. Call it the "Christian-mall-mentality."

The bottom line question in all of this is who is a Christian? I know we do not like such questions, but this one really underlines this entire discussion. If we can exchange terms like "family friendly" and Christian, then why not equate terms like American and Christian? Or Southerner and Christian? Or white and Christian? Or middle-class and Christian?

Is "Christian" something you do on Sunday only? Is it okay the rest of the week to use vulgar language? Is it okay on other days to view porn on the internet? Is it okay to harbor malice or utter slander? Is it okay to treat your spouse with disrespect and apathy? Is it okay to break whatever laws you deem are not important? Is it okay to shop, shop, shop and then bristle at any notion of materialism? Is it okay to ignore your family because of your career?

The issue is not the presence of sin. The Bible makes it clear that when sin is acknowledged and repentance follows, then God forgives (1 John 1:9). Rather, the issue is the continued practice of sin, for that implies no acknowledgement (sometimes there is) and no inclination to repent (there is nothing wrong).

I have a theory that the word "Christian" has become so watered down that it carries no more responsibility or weight than most of the other terms of designation that we employ.

Who is a Christian?

That is a question that must precede any discussion of a "Christian nation".

Bulldogs/Cowboys Sports Beat

The Bulldogs soccer team returned to action this past Saturday and posted a disappointing 2-2 score against their opponent.

Despite playing in a U-12 league, the Bulldogs (all but three of them are only 10) have hung tough and played good soccer.

Saturday's tie puts the Bulldogs at a 2-0-2 mark. They are still undefeated, but have two ties. Sometimes, teams have bad days. Saturday was a bad day for the Bulldogs, but the girls are resilient and will bounce back against their next opponent. It's tough to keep a Bulldog down.

Scoring goals for the Bulldogs were Madi Walter and Rachel Shumate.

In other sports news ...

The Cowboys (Drew's team) will resume play this Saturday. They are currently 3-1 and in second place in their league. A strong regular season finish will put the Cowboys in a good spot for the playoffs.

Congrats Hannah!

Congratulations to my daughter Hannah who was one of ten students nominated for "Student of the Year" at her school.

I'm proud of you, Hannah. You work hard, you have a tender heart, and you are a friend to everyone. Guess what I'm trying to say is that I think you are a good person.

Keep trusting God. Continue to do the right thing. And (to quote Rich Mullins) let mercy lead.

Also, congratulations go out to two other Bulldogs players who were also nominated: Katie McKay and Mandy Sparkman. In addition to these girls, one former Bulldog was nominated: Ashley Faith.

Congratulations girls!

Bulldogs/Cowboys Sports Beat

Heading into a bye weekend, the Cowboys are now 3-1 on the season. A solid offense, complemented by an active defense has propelled the Cowboys to their successful start.

This past Saturday, the Cowboys met the Tigers in a match of unbeaten teams. Although giving a strong effort, the Cowboys fell to the Tigers who have cruised through their schedule unblemished. Drew Brewster, anchoring the offense line for the Cowboys, registered his best game so far. He had two pancakes, regularly drove his man back 5-6 yards, and even took out three players on one play.

In Monday night action, the Cowboys bounced back from their first loss by defeating a Haughton team. The offense produced the needed points and the defense was solid in the 12-6 victory. Drew had another good game, the highlight of which was Drew blocking his man from the middle of the field all the way out of bounds on one of the longest runs of the game.

The Cowboys are off this coming weekend, but the Bulldogs soccer team is back in action.

Help Needed

My family tends to value privacy. We do not often tell about things that are going on within our family. None of us craves the spotlight or relishes an undue amount of attention. Yet, I need to tell you something that is going on in my family.

Back in May, my Dad contacted me and told me that he had undergone a routine physical. One of the test results from the physical was a high PSA count. As a result, more tests were scheduled to determine why his PSA count was so high. None of the immediate tests were conclusive. Doctors expected cancer, but were unable to find any traces of cancerous spots. The doctors decided to take a "wait and see" approach. Basically, they closely monitored my Dad's PSA count with frequent tests. In the meantime, we prayed and tried not to worry too much, even though it was regularly in our minds.

In September, my Dad had another biopsy done. This past Thursday he received the results from his urologist. He has cancer on the right side of the prostate. My Dad has opted to have surgery to remove the prostate. The surgery will take place in six weeks. They have to wait due to the swelling caused by the recent biopsy.

Even though this surgery is extremely serious, my Dad has a great chance (90% or better) of making a complete recovery and being cancer-free.

Naturally, we are all concerned. Yesterday, I spoke with both my Mom and Dad, and they are concerned, but also optimistic. My Dad reminded me that everything is in God's hands (he is such a preacher).

What I am asking from you is prayer.

Pray for my Dad (his name is Andrew Brewster). Specifically, pray that the cancer will be destroyed, that the surgery will be successful, and that he will make a complete recovery. Pray for my Mom (her name is Lorna). Pray for my sister (her name is Andrea) and her two sons (William and Josh). Pray for me and Mendy, and our two children: Hannah and Drew. Pray for the congregation where my Dad preaches. They will have a tough time (he has preached there for 16 years) as he goes through this procedure and subsequent healing process.

Please bear with me on bad days. I have known that something was wrong since May, and this latest news is tough to deal with. However, I trust God and I trust my Dad. He has a strong faith in God, and I want to follow his example.

Thank you for praying.

How Far We've Come

Mornings at the Brewster house are spent getting ready for school and work, as well as catching some music videos and some clips from Mike & Mike in the Morning.

My family tends to latch on to songs at different times that seem to resonate with where we are as a family and where we are going. The newest song to our family repertoire is the latest release from Matchbox 20 entitled, How Far We've Come.

Rob Thomas and crew have taken the "end-of-the-world" formula that R.E.M. used (It's the End of the World As We Know It) and have created a catchy tune with a significant message.

Here are the lyrics:

I'm waking up at the start of the end of the world,
but its feeling just like every other morning before,
now i wonder what my life is going to mean if it's gone,
the cars are moving like a half a mile an hour if that
and I started staring at the passengers who're waving goodbye
can you tell me what was ever really special about me all this time?

[chorus:]
but i believe the world is burning to the ground
oh well i guess we're gonna find out
let's see how far we've come
let's see how far we've come
Well I, believe, it all, is coming to an end
oh well, i guess, we're gonna pretend,
let's see how far we've come
let's see how far we've come

i think it turned ten o'clock but i don't really know
then i can't remember caring for an hour or so
started crying and i couldn't stop myself
i started running but there's no where to run to
i sat down on the street and took a look at myself
said where you going man when you know the world is headed for hell
say your goodbyes if you've got someone you can say goodbye to

i believe the world is burning to the ground
oh well i guess we're gonna find out
let's see how far we've come
let's see how far we've come

Well I, believe, it all, is coming to an end
oh well, i guess, we're gonna pretend,
let's see how far we've come
let's see how far we've come

its gone gone baby its all gone
there is no one on the corner and there's no one at home
it was cool cool, it was just all cool
now it's over for me and it's over for you
well its gone gone baby its all gone
there is no one on the corner and there's no one at home
well it was cool cool, it was just all cool
now it's over for me and it's over for you

but i believe the world is burning to the ground
oh well i guess we're gonna find out
let's see how far we've come
let's see how far we've come
Well I, believe, it all, is coming to an end
oh well, i guess, we're gonna pretend,
let's see how far we've come
let's see how far we've come

Week Two

The Bulldogs girls' soccer team continued their winning ways this past Saturday with a 1-0 victory over another tough opponent.

Behind a stout defense, and a "never-say-die" attitude, the Bulldogs were able to outlast their opponent and take advantage of a key scoring opportunity late in the game. Kaleigh Newman scored the sole goal for the Bulldogs by aggressively following-up a shot deflected by the opponent's goalie.

Also continuing their winning streak were the Cowboys as they beat the Panthers 14-0. Drew Brewster had another solid game at center and recorded his first "pancake" block of the year by taking down a linebacker on the opposing team. He ended the game with several more "pancakes" as the Cowboys' offensive line controlled the Panthers' defensive line.

All in all, it was another good weekend of soccer and football.