50,000

I think most people who start a blog think to themselves at some point, “No one is EVER going to read this.”  Whether the person is happy or depressed by this thought depends on the individual.  I can honestly say I never thought anyone would read any of my stuff once, never mind make my blog a frequent stop for their cyber-wanderings.

I most certainly did not think there would be over 50,000 occasions where someone would stop by to see what I thought about something.

And apparently, as of today, that is exactly the case.

Overwhelming.

In honor of this unexpected milestone, I’ve gone back through the archives and picked out a handful of posts that meant a lot to me, and just might have meant something to some of you beloved readers.  It is staggering to think of the major life lessons and changes that have taken place since I started this thing, and some of these posts captured the heart of those lessons and changes.

So here they are, in chronological order (oldest to most recent):

Sir Elton on Religion – When I first started blogging, I found my material and motivation by browsing current events, and trying to read about them through the lens of the Gospel.  When I found Elton John unintentionally speaking eternal truths, I had to share my thoughts.

My First Published Article – My former co-worker, Holly Coneway, was the one who encouraged me to submit one of my first blogs to Relevant Magazine to see if they would publish it on their website.  I was beyond giddy when it actually happened.

Four Glimpses of Glory – My wife is my best friend, my dearest treasure, my most precious gift, and the clearest picture of Jesus I will ever see this side of eternity.  In the days leading up to and following our wedding, I saw God more vividly than ever before.

Michael Vick, Jesus, My Cynicism &  Me – When everything surrounding Michael Vick’s fall from stardom took place, I didn’t give any of it much of a second thought…until he appeared on television speaking of a new-found faith in Jesus.  My instantly skeptical thoughts were followed by some deep realization about myself, so I wrote this letter to Mike, letting him know my prayers and support were behind him.  Although there is a 0% chance he ever read it, it still brings me joy to see his chance for redemption unfolding now, years later.

Our Story, His Story, THE Story – I have preached so much in the last few years that it is easy to forget how much of a rookie I still am.  The first person to give me a pulpit in a big Sunday service was Andy Nixon – he let me kick off a Loft series on Blue Like Jazz.  I was a nervous wreck, but it is one of my fondest memories in ministry now.

Shaun Alexander & The Clarification of Success – Few men have had the impact on my life that Shaun has had for the last 5 years.  As much as I learned watching him handle the spotlight during his MVP/Superbowl season in 2005, I’ve never been more proud of him than on the day he was officially cut by the Seahawks.

Meet Baby McCormack – Before we knew Boston was a “he,” we would show off this picture of our unborn child.  What a blur, but what a sweet ride it has been so far.

Hakeem Olajuwon, My Dad, & My Understanding of Grace – Roger McCormack is the best man I know.  Period.  The way he has modeled and embodied the love and grace of Jesus to me has had more impact on my life than anything else.  I realize that is a grand statement.  I assure you, it is completely true.

Shadows of the Gospel - As I was doing my second “blog per day” journey through lent, Matt Chandler introduced me to the concept of searching for “shadows of the Gospel” all day, everyday.  Ever since I see the sacrificial love of Christ everywhere I look…and I pray that is always the case.

When We Forsake the Lives of Others, We Actually Forsake Our Own – I was at the Q Conference in Austin the first time I saw this video.  For some reason, this was what enabled me to truly connect the dots between believing the Gospel, and dedicating my entire life to the care of those less fortunate than myself.  I am still grabbing hold of this, but I still know I will never be the same.

HE is Enough (Break-Thru 2009) – No concept has dominated my preaching or my walk with Jesus more than my growing appreciation for Jesus as the “He” of Genesis 3:15…the promised messiah who would crush the head of the serpent, and restore all that was broken in the fall.  Break-Thru, one of my first really “big” speaking opportunities, was one of my favorite chances to unpack the glory of the “He.”

The Realized Love of a Father – Becoming a daddy changed everything.  Quite simply, I did not know love to the depth I know it now.  In realizing a new level of my own ability to love as a father, I get to experience a new level of love from my Father.

Thanks to all of you for joining me at the intersection of my ridiculously blessed life, and my love for writing.

Here’s to more experiences, more lessons, more opportunities, and more glimpses of glory.