Jim's Local Break

Day 3,4, and 5

2011-08-05T22:52:00.000-07:00

Day 3 - Wednesday the surf was a little bigger in the 2-3 foot range. Most wind swell. Surfed with Greg and Ian at Abb for a dawn patrol .Water temp dropped.

Day 4 - Thursday A little more surf, but super shifty and Holy Cow the water was freezing, 60 degree the first week of August. My back was stiff and I paddled in circles. I was out of sink the whole session. Surfed with Lori, Greg and Ian.

Day 5 - Friday Surf continued to come up with a long period swell from hurricane Eugene. Mostly wind swell in the 2-3 zone with a bomb set in the 3-6 range every 20 minutes. Surfed from 3:45-4:30 and only caught two set waves but was stoked. The water temp popped back up to mid 60's. Still some real cold spots. Surfed with bird and Chris.

Prayer Update - Frustrated today when Michelle canceled her appointment with therapist. This is a real battle. I need more folks to pray with me for Michelle's courage and will to go through the healing process.

Day 2

2011-08-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

This evening Ross Brodie and I took Isaac out to surf the cliffs for the first time. The waves were pretty junking, 1 to 3 close period wind swell. I caught only two waves. We did however witness a beautiful sunset. Isaac spent most of the time sitting out side in the channel. When we went to paddle in, he got cleaned up pretty good. His board was tomb stoning and I had to grab him off the bottom of the reef. All told he was only down 5 seconds, but he was not happy. It was almost a perfect first surf. Minutes before he declared that he wanted to go surfing with me every day of his life. Post wipe out, he told me, "Dad, Im just not ready yet."

Prayer - today I had a good prayer time. I was able to pray with Michelle this afternoon. She had been having tummy issues all day, running to the bathroom. I prayed over her. She is now much more hydrated!

Monday, August 1

2011-08-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

Today, I am starting what I hope to be 31 days of surfing and prayer. I have never been one to just go out and exercise, I need a goal. The goal started out to surf everyday in the month of August. I long for the feeling of being back in shape. Then last night before I went to bed, I thought, what would my intimacy with Jesus be like if i committed to pray for at least an hour a day too?

Today's surf report - I surfed Abb from 1:40-3:00. There was a mix of small NW wind swell and long period SW swell. Waves were in the 2-3 foot range. There were long lulls but i managed to catch a few fun waves. It was sunny and the water temp was around 65 degrees. I am glad I wore the spring suit. One other guy out.

Prayer Report - I am praying for Craig and Lara Kimmel, good friends from DeLand Florida who have separated and soon to file for a divorce. Second, a job in OB for Mark Maliepaard.

Happy Anniversary

2009-09-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

Every Week a New Adventure

2009-08-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

The last month has unstable at best. First, Michelle's physical and emotional health has been rough. We have had times, when we did not think we could bare it anymore. It is at those moments when the LORD has come and shown His graciousness. I forget how powerful the cross and resurrection truly are.

It is so easy to build walls in a relationship. We are relearning what it means to stand together. I am convinced the enemy of our soul wants us divided. When there has a been a lack of intimacy, it is also the time when we have felt the most powerless.

The church planting is so fragile too. In the past few weeks, out jam up worship team has gone through major transitions. I've literally shown up on Sunday not knowing who was going lead worship and do our Sunday set. My heart wanted to run to anxiety and stress out, but i have had to preach the gospel to myself that this is His church. In the end all the signs get set out and worship ends up so good. I am so thankful that the Lord has protected me from myself.

Even though there has been real crisis in many of your member's live, I have been able to see and be a part of significant transformation. Growth always comes with giving up our rights and trusting.

Still Living The Dream!
Jim

Harbor Testimony - Part 2

2009-08-20T19:35:00.001-07:00

Testimony of Chad Gray

I hung out on the periphery of Harbor Downtown for a couple years. I had grown up in the church, but when I first came to Harbor I was very cynical about Christianity, Christians and any place where Christians tended to congregate—like church or youth camps or my parents’ house or the Republican Party. For me, Christianity made for a head case of alternating guilt and self-righteousness. It was a confusing mess which I had tried to ditch several times. I could not seem to shake it, and so I was fairly miserable. I checked out Harbor on the recommendation of a friend who knew me well. The place immediately felt different from other gatherings of Christians I had experienced. My first observation was that Pastor Dick pretty much preached the same sermon every week, no matter where he was in the Bible. Pentateuch, Prophecies, Psalms, Gospels, Epistles—each week he somehow ended up at the Cross talking about a love story. It took me a while to grasp the concepts beneath the terminology—grace, righteousness, imputation, propitiation, justification, adoption—but I understood the feel right away. Here was a group of people that was honest about its sin and struggles, but full of joy. The people had a strange mix of humility and confidence that I found very attractive.

I slowly got more involved. I got around to becoming a flaky member of the set-up team. Then I joined a community group and made a few friends. I was in a Harbor class taught by Dick called "Gospel and the Heart" when I first really "got" the Gospel and started to grasp how very good the news is. It felt like a rescue to me, to be gripped by this love story and pulled to safety. Having grown up in the church, I was actually angry that I had never heard this stuff before. When I think about it now, I suspect I had heard the full gospel growing up, but for whatever reason it had never clicked until that class.

So the gospel became sweet to me, but I was still very stand-offish about the church. I guess I knew intellectually that church is important, the way I know vegetables are important. But eating vegetables has never been my favorite part of the meal. If I could get the nutrients some other way I would probably avoid them. I certainly liked Harbor better than other churches I had attended, but I was still pretty freaked out about actually sharing my life with all these strangers.

When Dick came to our community group and asked us to be the launch team for a new Harbor church plant in my neighborhood, I was up for it. After all, I had lots of opinions about how a church should not look and feel. And if I had to be part of a church (like I had to eat vegetables), here was my chance to make it a comfy place full of folks just like me!

So we began meeting together to plan and dream and pray about this new community. We talked about all the different aspects of a functioning church—preaching, music, set-up, childcare, event planning, refreshments, small groups, hospitality, care and mercy. There was a moment during this process when it suddenly hit me that if any of this necessary stuff was actually going to happen, it was someone in that room who was going to do it. That was the first time I grasped the wisdom of team leadership.

We spent a lot of time praying—praying the Lord's Prayer, praying for friends and family, praying for each other and for this church that was being born. It was during that intense time that I felt something shift in my heart's attitude toward the other folks on the launch team. I actually began to care, to really care, about them. We were mixing our lives together in prayer, accountability, encouragement, helping, dreaming, reminding—we were working toward a common purpose—we were discovering together the connection between the tasks that needed doing and this inspiring vision to see the Gospel transform people's lives. We were joined in anticipation to see how God would move. We shared a sense of being part of God's big cosmic plan. We were caught up in how He was shaping eternity. It was a trip. I found myself beginning to love this community, this church.

I think it caught us all by surprise when we finally launched and found out that we were the leadership team of this new church. Somehow I hadn't seen that one coming—that I would end up in charge of something, that God would now be working through my weakness to lead and build His church. I still wrestle with it. I feel like I should be a better man, have my crap more together, be more Jesus-ish. I take comfort in remembering that Christ is the one building His church, not me. He is amazing at drawing straight lines with crooked sticks.

For me, helping to plant Harbor Uptown was a life-changing experience. I learned that the community of believers is the body of Christ, not the individual. Jesus gifted each of us with different aspects of His perfect strength so that only when we come together can we most accurately reflect who He is. I learned that a community of believers is an amazing source of comfort in times of trouble. I learned that one of the best pieces of evidence for the truth of the Gospel is the time when a bunch of broken, selfish, and very different believers are surprised to find that they love each other. I learned that vegetables, lots of different vegetables, are very good -- frustrating, yes; challenging, yes; uncomfortable, yes, yes -- but very good.

In short, I learned to love the church. I highly recommend the lesson.

The Miracle of Harbor - Part 1

2009-08-18T20:20:00.000-07:00

Testimony of Bill and Dana McCurine

Harbor has profoundly affected our lives. Although there are many ways to explain this impact, we will focus on five primary areas. First, we have both been Christians since approximately 1981. Harbor has given us a profoundly deeper understanding and appreciation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul says he is not ashamed of the Gospel for it is the power of God to save. However, we had thought that once we were saved the Gospel was only important to share with others. We did not appreciate, or understand, the Gospel is responsible for our sanctification as well as for our salvation. We did not appreciate before that we not only had to repent for our sins; we also had to repent of our self-perceived righteousness. Through a deeper understanding of the Gospel we have come to learn we are worse sinners than we had ever imagined, but also that in Christ we are more loved than we had ever imagined possible.

Second, Harbor's approach to the Gospel has resulted in identifying with much greater clarity the idols that exist in our lives. We continue to trust God to identify and destroy those idols.

Third, we were married in August 1971. We know and love each other deeply, but Harbor's approach to the Gospel has radically deepened and enriched our marriage beyond anything we had earlier thought possible.

Fourth, we did not understand how the Gospel figured into developing an enriching community, whether that community is viewed as one’s family, city or church. We now understand that one cannot successfully be a Christian and also a Lone Ranger; God requires us to be intimately involved with our communities on a variety of levels. This learning is exciting, even though it has the tendency to topple our apple carts. But now we would not have it any other way.

Finally, the Gospel has produced more peace and deeper joy. The Christian life is hard, but life without Christ is much harder. The Christian life has many struggles, but God has a way of turning those struggles into stepping stones to a deeper relationship with Him and with others. We worry less and trust God more. We are finding deeper satisfaction in simple things (e.g., dinner with friends, a movie, music). We are not anxious to die but death has lost its sting. We know Christ has done the work for us and has embraced us with a deeper love than we had ever known. He represents in His very being both a present and a future richer than anything we had imagined before.

Weddings, Visitors, Memorial Day

2009-05-24T16:04:00.000-07:00

Enjoying May days!! It has been a busy month of homework, meetings, and weddings. Our babysitter Desire' got married today and Faith and Isaac were the flower girl and ring bearer. Jim officiated the ceremony that took place in Paradise Island in San Luis Rey. It is a gorgeous place up in the north county about an hour from home.

My parents and Aunt Katie are traveling across country as we speak! I am so exited to have them here. The summer is going to be FULL of wonderful visitors!

My back injury continues to get worse and now my adrenals are in crisis. I will be going to LA to see my specialist on Wed. Please pray for Jim also as his back is giving him a lot a pain. We are just falling apart!!! However, God remains to be so good to us.

Hoping all of you have a wonderful Memorial Day. Thank you to all the men and women who have given their lives that we may have FREEDOM! We honor all of our men and women in uniform today as they continue to fight to maintain our freedom!

Prayer Needed by M. Huster

2009-04-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

I know that it is not polite to brag or be proud but I am foregoing this social faux-pa. I need your prayers. Faith's birthday is April 12th and she has decided what kind of day and party she wants. Last year Faith had a big party with all her school friends at the beach. This year's request blew me away.

Faith came to me with her birthday idea written down on a piece of paper. The paper read,

"My Birthday Adventure with My Mom." (on Saturday since Easter is on my birthday)

1. Out to Breakfast

2. Pedicures

3. Shopping for new shoes

4. Picnic in the Park

5. Shopping for an Easter dress for my mom

6. Go see the new Hannah Montana Movie

7. Go out to dinner.

WOW!!! I couldn't believe it. It just goes to show that my illness has affected my children but yet they still want their "Mommy" and I just cried when I read this. I know that this will probably be the last time my daughter wants to spend her birthday with just me. She is growing up and I know how things change. My prayer is that our relationship will continue to be special no matter how old she is!

OK, NOW FOR THE PRAYER AMO!!!!

My spine specialist reported that I have really injured my hip and left hip joint, my lower back and my neck. I am in so much pain all the time but I need prayer that I can make my little girl's birthday wish come true.

I told her that I may not be able and she said, "That's OK Mom, we can paint our own nails, have a picnic on the front grass, go shopping in your closet for the perfect dress, and rent a movie and eat popcorn." What a peach and what a treasure.

SO PLEASE PRAY!!!! Thank you!

Spring time in the desert!

2009-03-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

Spring Time in the Desert...

Yesterday, Jim and the kids with Uncle Greg went to Anza Desert State Park to see the the wildflowers that only bloom once a year! Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Updates!!!

2009-03-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

Sorry it has been so long since I have written. So much has transpired in the last few months. God has been moving in mighty ways and we are so excited and humbled how He continues to provide and draw people unto Him! Here a few updates.

Jim's Ordination!!!!
We had a wonderful service of celebration for the official ordination of James Richard Huster! Jim's Dad, Richard Huster and his mother, Nancy Lees traveled across the country to make this time even more special. Nancy and I were busy with getting a reception ready and Greg, Courtney, and Richard all did their part to pitch in. Courtney's parents (Ned and Kathy) were here from Tuscon for the celebration and made a tremendous contribution to our family through all their help and loving on our kids! THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!!! Matt D. helps operate a limo business and brought all of our homeless friends to the service in style...I LOVE OB!!!! The service was filled with tears, laughter, hoots, and cheers! It was truly a celebration of what the Lord has done and called our family to do.

The Soul Sisters of Alabama...
Last year around this time, some precious ladies came from Alabama and prayed for me and the Lord delivered me from sickness and oppression. Following such a great time we have also encountered some tough situations. We are so excited to say that the Lord continues to heal and deliver many areas of our lives. The ladies were here this week and many people from our church received healing and encouragement from them once again!

Katrina's Visit...
Our family was blessed two weeks ago to have my best friend come out and be with us. I have suffered for two months with strep throat and I had no idea how I could pull everything together for Jim's orordination. Nana to the rescue!!!! We didn't tell Isaac or Faith and Katrina woke them up for school, they were speechless!!!!!!! We went up to Julian which is about an hour away and enjoyed playing in about 2 feet of snow!!!!! It was freezing and we were glad for the fun but thankful that the beach was only a short distance away...we are so blessed to have the mountains and the sea!

Benjamin and Caroline...
We got a frantic call from Ben rushing to Caroline. She is OK but please pray for the healing of her mind and body. She collapsed and has been hospitalized for dehydration and anemia. This is all the news we have received so far. Sometimes no news is good news when it is coming from Africa.

My Dad (Allen Connor)
Finally!!! My dad now has a new pacemaker after many episodes of blacking out totally and feeling so poorly for many months. I am happy to report that he is doing great and "ticking" right along!

Busy Spring...
We are looking forward to a busy spring with lots of visitors and traveling for Jim. He is returning to SC March 20th for the Missions Conference at Covenant Presbyterian. My Aunt Barbara and Uncle Marlin will be visiting in April which we are so excited about! Benjamin will be coming from Rwanda to spend a week with us in May. Jim, Faith, and Isaac are going to be in a wedding of our babysitter, Desire Miksad. We are so thrilled to take part in this wonderful occasion.

Isaac, Faith, and Courtney...
Isaac received 4 stitches yesterday...this is his second time with a flesh wound to the head! He is doing great and back to his old self of climbing and having absolutely no fear! Faith and Isaac have started soccer with the YMCA and dad coaching and mom cheering them on! Courtney moved out a few weeks ago which was hard for all. She had been here almost a year. She is still very present in our lives and continues to be a huge help to me!

Harbor OB...
Harbor continues to grow and our small flock is growing more and more in the grace and love of Jesus Christ. We are truly a body that is bonding and sharing our brokenness and triumphs. It is such a special community that God is cultivating. Please keep us in your prayers for the Lord's protection, guidance, discernment and wisdom. We are at His mercy and feel so humbled to be in this place. Grace and peace to all of you our sweet family and friends. You are so incredibly loved by us!!!

Chinese New Year and God's Faithfulness in the heart of Faith

2009-01-22T16:00:00.000-08:00

Education...well, that is a topic that we all have opinions and convictions about. When we decided to move to California we were a little nervous about putting our children in public school. You hear so many negative things on the news about "California." However, Jim and I were very convinced that the Lord wanted our children to be in public school. We felt the strong conviction of how are our kids going to be able to live out their faith in the real world if they have never been there? This was hard because we don't want "the world" to "corrupt" our kids. So we had to trust that God knew what He was doing in spite of our reservations.

Today the Lord showed His unfailing faithfulness to me while doing homework with Faith. Her class has been studying the Chinese New Year for the month of January. When I got her homework, it told of their beliefs, gods, and superstitions. I thought, "Oh no...this is the influence that I was so worried about!" As many of you know, we have encountered a lot of spiritual attacks since we have been here. We have seen people truly demonized and it has definitely put a new category in our faith box. We have seen the power and influence of Chinese ritual and worship of their gods manifested in unbelievers and believers and the horrible struggles that they have faced. Now some of you may be thinking we have gone all wacky and such but until you see the enemy for yourself, you cannot comprehend his influence. So, back to the homework. As Faith and I studied about the do's and don'ts of Chinese New Year we began to talk about our faith and what we believed. One thing the Chinese believe is that if you behave properly, then their ancestors and mythical gods will grant them fortune and good luck in the coming year. Faith's first reaction was, "Mommy how sad is it that they think they can "earn" good things by just being good." "I am glad that I know Jesus and I didn't do anything to deserve good things, He just gives them to me because He loves me." Out of the mouths of babes!!!! I was completely blown away at her observation! The other things they do to earn good fortune and good luck seemed to be so silly to her. She felt sad for the Chinese people. It was obvious that she has been processing all of this for a month. She shared that one lady came in to talk about Chinese New Year since she herself was Chinese and grew up in China. Faith said she listened and thought it was all interesting. But before the speaker left, Faith approached her and asked her if she believed in God. The guest responded that she was not sure and Faith told her that she did and that He loves her very much! Wow! My daughter was witnessing right there in her classroom!!!

I cannot tell you how my heart sang out to the Lord in thankfulness and praise. Sometimes all parents wonder if our kids ever "get it" and that it just goes in one ear and out the other. Today the Lord showed me that His hand and favor is on our sweet little Faith and that she is His. I know that as she grows older more and more things will conflict with her faith. We have to continually trust that our Sovereign God will walk with her through all of them.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2008-12-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

We trust that you and your family have had a joyous Christmas Season! This year has been one of the most amazing times of my life! We give the Lord Jesus all the honor and glory He so richly deserves.

We continue to enjoy this week of Holiday fun. Last week, "Uncle"Greg was off and we had a blast with him. Not having any other family out here makes his presence in our lives so wonderful. We are thankful for his heart for us and the church. The kids and Greg spent some time off from school at the Zoo, shopping, movies, trains, the OB Christmas parade, etc... On Christmas evening we had around 14 people here to share a meal with us. Many folks who didn't have family, others were military,singles and neighbors. It was a great time. I used all my Christmas dishes and Jim gladly cleaned up!

Thanks to generous grandparents and my Aunt Barbara and Uncle Marlin, my kids had a great Christmas from Santa. We now own a Wii...which is the coolest game ever!! Finally, someone came up with a way to "play" video games that actually require you to move around!!! We adults are a little sore from the bowling, tennis, and golf. It has been really fun for all of us. Santa brought me a new pale pink beach cruiser bike which I am anxious to hit the beaches with! We had a lot of rain and it has kept us inside but the sunny skies are back and we are ready to get out again. Katie our golden pup is also ready to be back at the park!

We had our first Christmas Eve service at the school. We knew many of our church family would be out of town but to our surprise, we had a packed house! I was able to sing and did a children's corner in the service. Jim's stepmom, Pen, gave us a book @ Thanksgiving called, "Father and Son", so good! It is about Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus and his "thoughts" on how could he ever raise the King of all time? We also had the amazing privilegde to hear the testimony of a member of our church who has been homeless for a long time but is now sober and now has a place to live but continues to minister to the homeless. We all wept with joy as we heard of God's amazing faithfulness and goodness. These stories are becoming more and more frequent in our congregation. Go GOD!!

Jim and the kids enjoyed an afternoon and evening at Sea World thanks to Courtney and her employee passes! She spent a week back in AZ. We missed her and we are glad she is home. Please continue to lift her up in prayer. The Lord remains good by faithfully providing more and more healing in her life. She plans to leave the Huster nest in February. It will be an adjustment to all of us! Isaac does not do well with change, especially when it involves Courtney!

Happy New Year to you and yours!

Fifteen Year Anniversary

2008-12-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

Jim and I have been married for 15 years! Wow! Time goes by so fast. We could have never imagined what life would hold for us when we were just 21 year old kids. Life has not been easy but God has always been good!

Here are a few reason why I love Jimmy...

* his never failing love
* his never failing grace for me
* the best friend I have ever had
* when Jim befriends you, he is your friend forever
* he loves his children
* he sacrifices so much for our family
* his heart for Jesus is amazing
* he loves the unlovable
* he sees conflicts as an opportunity to grow
* he doesn't have a lot of money to give but he gives something more valuable...his time!
* he is a visionary
* he inspires people to do great things
* he has a true heart for the fatherless
* he is a PTA dad!
* he has led this family to live life as normally as possible throughout my illness
* he cooks
* he has given my children their baths since they were toddlers so he could spend time with them
* he puts family above ministry, school, surfing, etc...
* Jesus is Lord of His life
* he admits when he makes mistakes
* he asks his children for forgiveness if he disciplines them out of frustration and not out of love
* he knows how to apologize
* he is willing to go the extra mile for you
* our children think is "superman", their real hero!
* his possessions are not his own, if you want to borrow it or use it, he joyfully offers it to you
* he is so goofy
* he gets so crazy at sporting events
* he has fun with his kids
* he teaches them everything he knows...Jesus, surfing, swimming, riding a bike, soccer, serving others, how to be a good friend, how to share Christ...
* he is a good son and son-in-law
* he loves his parents
* he loves all of his siblings
* he doesn't gossip
* he is an eternal optimist
* he is not afraid to cry
* he knows how to make you feel important and special
* he sees no situation as impossible, just an opportunity to see how God will "show" up!
* he admits when he fails or falls short
* he has shared in all my pain and joy
* we make beautiful children together
* he never gives up on people even when they have given up on themselves
* he loves Kahli as his very own and lovingly takes the responsibility to be the father she never had
* he loves Caroline as his very own and shares in her pain even though he has never personally met her and she lives in hiding in Africa
* he opens the doors of our home to anyone who wants or needs to come in
Last but not least....
HE CHOSE ME TO BE HIS WIFE!!! I AM SO BLESSED.... I LOVE YOU JIM!

*

East Coast Trip

2008-12-06T21:25:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful time going back East over the Thanksgiving Holiday. Our 13 day "tour" consisted of visiting family and friends in Deland, Fl, Jacksonville, FL, Hickory, NC, Lincolnton, NC, Statesville, NC, Six Mile SC, Easley,SC, and Walterboro, SC. Wow! We shared at Lincolnton First Wesleyan Church and at our home church, Covenant Presbyterian in Easley, SC. The amazing thing about all of this is that I was feeling good and able to be back in the game. Our immediate family has not been able to participate in many activities that include mommy so this was a great time for the 4 of us. It was so great to see family and friends.

Once Again!

2008-11-09T22:55:00.000-08:00

Wow! The past two weeks have really been a roller coaster ride for me. A friend from Alabama called me out of the blue because she felt the Lord wanted her to pray for me. As many of you know I have been suffering with chronic diarrhea and back pain for months. I have been hospitalized 3 times and they were able to find nothing. From the beginning of all of this, Jim and I both felt like my illness was a spiritual attack.

Pam began to pray and I literally experienced an amazing touch from the Lord. I knew it was not my destiny to be confined to a bed for the rest of my life. Just like back in March, the Lord delivered me from sickness, depression, and despair. When I injured my back and the gastro problems began, it made me worship and praise the Lord even more. I want to thank everyone who has prayed for me. It was your prayers that God heard. I am so thankful that He had compassion on me so I can be a mother, wife, and a better friend.

OK, now for my warning for those of you who will see me in a few weeks. The medications they put me on for my back made me gain 30 lbs in 2 months. This has been very hard for me but I have had to put things into perspective. I would much rather be overweight than stranded in my bed any day!!! Sorry for being so vain. I should not let it bother me and give thanks for what the Lord has done!

Prayer Requests:
1. I have been without my Growth Hormone for 3 weeks which is very unhealthy for me since I am very deficient. It also controls my body composition and overall well being. Please pray that it will come soon and my insurance will cover it. A physical therapist has been coming to the house to do reconditioning exercises. My muscles have atrified and I have lost bone density. All of this is being in the bed for so long and I desperately need the Growth Hormone to help build my muscle and make my bones healthy again.

2. Please remember our dear friend in Rwanda (Benjamin). The Congo and Rwanda are in turmoil because of the genocide killers who have been hanging out right across the border. 2 thousand people are dying everyday because of these evil men. Also, 40 thousand Congolese die every month. As Ben said, only God can save us.

3. Our church- We are so thrilled and the Lord is blessing Harbor OB! We are running around 65 on Sunday Morning and we have a new children director which has been a huge blessing. The Lord continues to bring us the hurting, homeless and those who need Jesus.
Go God!

4. Please also remember our trip back east. We leave Nov. 19th and return Dec. 2.

5. Please pray for God to call other believers to intercede for me specifically. We are living in a very "spiritual" place and the enemy is very upset. I need prayer coverage as well for Jim, Faith and Isaac

Finally, Isaac turned 5 Oct.30th. Grandpa Huster's was the 29th
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOYS!!!

Turning the Corner

2008-10-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Good news - I believe Michelle has turned the corner. I called her yesterday afternoon on her cell and she answered and she was at a pet store with the kids. Michelle and Courtney picked the kids up and headed out on an adventure to the grocery store and pet store. This was the first time since late July( 4 monthes), Michelle had out and about. We know that this is the result of the many prayers that have gone up before the Lord. The Lord is so good and faithful. We have seen some dramatic answers to prayers this week.

More pictures and stories to come!

A New Huster

2008-10-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

We are proud to introduce you to Katie Huster. She was born July 12 and is now twelve weeks old. For a few weeks now, the kids and I have been visiting different litters of Golden Retrievers around the San Diego area. We found a beautiful little puppy who is so smart.

In just one day she is walking in correct position with a leash and is well on her way to being potty trained. Faith and Isaac are on cloud nine and wonderful care takers.

Not So Fast

2008-10-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

Well... I wish I could bring better news, but things blew up on the floor of Presbytery. There is great animosity with a few toward Harbor and what we are doing in San Diego. It is a minority but very virulent few. My sermon and exam on the floor went well, it was other issues concerning exceptions to the confession that caused a blow up for me and two other candidates. The other two candidates caught it big time.What ended up happening over a two hour period is that the examination for all purposes ceased and people began fighting for their doctrinal positions. The forum just happen to be our examination? This had been brewing for quiet some time and it finally blew up.

In the end, the Candidates Committee and process will be over-hauled and I will be able to go through examination again in January.The official response to me was they wanted me to become sharper? I met with the moderator yesterday and he apologized to me. He told me that I just walked into a loaded time bomb. My written exam, sermon, and all other paper work, were officially approved. All I will need to do is go through the floor of Presbytery again. Glory!

It was a tough experience. On a funny note: the sermon I preached at Presbytery was "Grace In Unexpected Places", with two main points 1) Grace in Pain 2) Grace in Rejection. It was approved and warmly received, I did not realize at the time it was written for my benefit.

Michelle's health has not changed much in the past month or so. Still having lots of digestive issues leading her to be extremely weak. Monday, we went to her internist and were encouraged. He is going in a different direction now that everything in her digestive track seems to be normal. We should have results in a day or so from their latest labs. His logic seems to make sense, pray that they find something.

Thanks for your prayers!

HE PASSED!!

2008-09-24T22:13:00.000-07:00

We are giving thanks and praise tonight because Jim passed his oral ordination test! After almost 3 hours of questions he is so close to being ordained. On Saturday he will go before Presbytery to preach a sermon and then the floor will be opened for 10 minutes of questions. Thank you for your prayers!!! Please continue to lift him up.

Tough Day For Michelle

2008-09-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

Michelle had her colonoscopy and endoscopy today. Add this day to the list of medical procedures gone bad. We infadicaly told her doctor that Michelle has a high tolerance to pain meds and sedation and that she needed extra. Well, to get to the point, Michelle was completely awake during both procedures. They had to restrain her during the endoscopy so she would not pull out the hose. It was horribly traumatic. To make thing worse, they did not find anything abnormal that is causing the chronic diarrhea. Thank you for your many prayers.

Mile One

2008-09-15T19:54:00.000-07:00

We have made it to mile marker one. I must confess, I should be enjoying this first mile more, but my impending ordination exam has cast some scattered clouds over this season. I go before the committee next Wednesday (24th) in the afternoon. I am actually on a study break from the "Doctrine of the Church" to type this blog.

Well, how was the second service? Church planting math says you should divide the first week attendance by two, then you will have your starting congregation. Week one you get lots of well wishers who are already committed to other local churches but wanted to encourage us. We had around 85 week one, so with the above formula, we should be in the mid- 40's? Well, we had around 65! It must be the dynamic preaching, right!?

Funny Story: After the service, one of my good friends Mikey, came up to me to ask a question, "what is repentance?" Fare question right? Well, my sermon Sunday was on the Parable of the fig tree, on repentance from Luke 13. My three points of the sermon were 1) The Need for Repentance 2) What is Repentance and 3) What does Repentance Look Like Lived out? I just spent thirty minutes breaking down repentance with analogies, illustrations, and scriptural support and then he asks "what is repentance?" All this to say it must be something else than my preaching bringing people to Harbor Church. Actually, I know what that something else is. God's sweet Spirit has defiantly been visiting with us.

Michelle is still in the middle of the storm. I would not say she is any worse, but not much better either. She will have a colonoscopy on Wednesday morning. The preparation regiment for it is not going to be pretty. Please pray for her as she has to take the prep milk shake. uggg... My sister Cameron is holding her own and doing much better than she was a month ago. A couple weeks ago she was able to record her senior recital for her Masters in Harp Performance. They reviewed and accepted it and mailed her diploma last week! She is about half way through a 30 week cycle of chemo and radiation.

Well back to the confession... Blessings!!!

We Have Lift Off

2008-09-07T22:46:00.001-07:00

What a day! What an adrenalin rush! What a good God! Our grand opening mailer went out on Tuesday to over 20,000 homes in the Ocean Beach community. All week I received calls from folks who received the mailer inquiring more information about our new congregation. Due to the calls I received, I was optimistic that we would have quit a few first time visitors. I was blown away by how many actually came. I would estimate that we had about 50 folks who came just because they received our mailer. All told we had around 85 for our first public worship. Everyone seemed to interact well and enjoy the worship and fellowship. The praise team knocked a home run. Their spirits ushered our new congregation right into a powerful time of worship. I had a strong sense of the Holy Spirit helping while I preached. There is nothing more fun than preaching the Word of God when you have been filled in an unusual way with His spirit. Courtney Hall, our good friend who has been living with us on and off since April, shared her testimony. It was soooo good. You can download my sermon and Courtney’s testimony online at http://www.harborob.org/.

Michelle was not able to make it to our service this morning. She had been up most of the night with multiple trips to the bathroom. By morning she was completely wiped out. She tried to shower and get ready but she was so weak. I am so thankful for Lois Swagerty, another Harbor pastor’s wife, who came and laid in bed with Michelle during our service. They cried and laughed together. Michelle needed some well timed encouragement. The Lord was so gracious to send Lois today.

Tomorrow starts a two week cram season for my ordination exam. Thankful, I was able to put off the exam a few weeks. Looks like I will go before the committee on the 24th or 25th. But for today, I will celebrate and this amazing new chapter of Harbor OB.

It's Coming Together

2008-09-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

We are two days away from our fist public worship service! We had a preview service last Sunday morning, to do a test run of setting up and breaking down the OB Elementary auditorium. For the most part it was smooth. Of course there are a few minor things that go wrong like the projector screen not being left down for us or not being able to turn on hall lights. But overall, it was a great service and Lord meet with us all. The worship team has come together and did an excellent job in leading worship. The children’s team was zipping around and the children loved our new children’s church.

This week our “Grand Opening” mailer went out and I have received a dozen or so calls, most of them positive and encouraging. Of course living in a place like OB, you are also going to get some creative and highly descriptive calls to remind you why God has called us to OB. I’ve clapped my hands and rubbed them together numerous times today. I get so exciting thinking about our opportunity. I’ll give a complete run down Sunday evening.

Michelle is doing a little bit better. She is no longer having to go to the bathroom 20 plus times a day, but has slimmed her visits down to 3 or 4 times. This does allow her to retain some fluids and food. Earlier in the week she picked up a UTI infection and started breaking out in boils. I told her that she is starting to look like Job? In the midst of feeling rotten, Michelle’s spirits have been joyful. She has been singing and worshiping more in the past few weeks than I can ever remember. Having her good friend Katrina from back in SC visit this week has been such a blessing for our entire family. It is hard but there is a joy that only comes from being close to God in the midst of suffering. We are actually incredible blessed!

Faith and Isaac are both back in school and loving it. Well, Isaac loves his new class and friends but misses his sister and wants to go to her class. Thanks to grandma Lees, they have been dressed in the best of back to school fashion. I have some good looking kids.

Surf Camp

2008-08-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

Will you pray and fast with me? Scripture tells us that these two spiritual disciplines should be practiced when seeking divine guidance, intervention, protection, and to break through spiritual strong holds. I am looking for prayer partners who will pray and fast for the spiritual strong holds here in Ocean Beach and for our impending launch. Isaiah 58, which I call the OB chapter, challenges me, "Is it not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?" Isaiah 58:6

Our goal is not to manipulate God (See Acts 23:12,14) or to impress people but to be drawn deeper into the presence of our Abba Father. Fasting reveals the things that control us and actively demonstrates repentance, grief, humility, and wholeheartedness. These attributes are rare attributes for me. Please join me in the season of seeing God's kingdom advancing and captives being set free.

Update on Michelle – Michelle came home Saturday evening and is still feeling cruddy. Today she is a little stronger, so I do believe there is some progress being made. Tonight (Tuesday), I am going to have a dedicated time of worship and prayer over Michelle. I would like to invite all who are able to join me. I am going to start around 9 pm, after I get my kids to bed. Call if you need directions
(619) 221-0034.

Well, we are just a few days away from our first Sunday morning worship. I was so encouraged today meeting with OB Elem. Principle Margaret Johnson. I could not have dreamed for a better partnership. She is rolling out the red carpet for us.

Twists and Turns

2008-08-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let our good friends and ministry partners know about Michelle's health. Michelle started having a IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) fare up about five weeks ago. Some of you may remember that Michelle suffered for almost at year with these kinds of symptoms back in 2002-3. Over the past five weeks her tummy issues have progressively deteriorated. She went to her internist three weeks ago and he ran a few test and referred her to a GI specialist. Unfortunately the fist available appointment was not until the 28th of August. Mean while, Michelle got weaker and weaker. On Tuesday of this week, Michelle blacked out and I took her to the ER. She was severely dehydrated and they gave her IV fluids and where able to get her GI appointment moved up to this afternoon.

We went this afternoon and her GI and he decided to admit Michelle into Green Hospital. He felt that she has suffered enough and they need to get to the bottom of things immediately (GLORY). The thought is that when Michelle was healed back in March from her pituitary disease, she stopped taking corteff (a steroid). It was most likely this steroid which she has been taking for her pituitary disease, was also suppressing her IBS.

It has been frustration for Michelle to be sideline with so much happening with the church plant. In the midst of Michelle's health struggles, things with the plant are taking off. We are less than three weeks away from our "grand opening" service. Our leadership team has taken shape and we will have a "launch 101" meeting this Saturday. I will post pictures of a water safety and surf clinic we did for neighborhood kids last Saturday in the next day. Please continue to pray for Michelle health and God's grace for our Church plant. Oh, by the way I and to sit for my Ordination exam in the next two weeks. Gulp!

Living the dream

2008-08-06T15:38:00.000-07:00

Thirty three days and counting until our official grand opening worship service! Things are really starting to come together. Please add me to your daily pray list over the next few weeks. As things are ramping up with he OB church plant, simultaneously I am working on ordination in the PCA, Michelle's back and stomach have been flaring up, and I will be flying back to Florida for a quick two day trip (Aug. 12-14) to visit my sister. Pray that I would be so immediately aware of the Holy Spirits presence and work in my life.

The last few launch team/worship services have been amazing. The diversity of our congregation along with our passion to worship has been prefect. I could not have dreamed of a better group of people in OB to worship the Lord with.

When we began meeting at OB Elementary back in June, we had 15-20 homeless folks join us for a "family meal." Most of them bailed before the meal. This created tension for some in our launch team. "How could they eat and then leave without coming to our service?" We had to wrestle with what grace looks like in a ministry context like OB? Our hearts changed and we could love unconditionally. Then on the first Saturday in July, it started to happen. Our homeless friends started joining us for worship. One man wept through the entire service and stayed for prayer after the service. The Lord invaded this mans heart and he asked for two of our men to drive him to the police station. He had an outstanding warrant for parole violation and he was tired of running. We have also had a couple guys earn their 30 day AA coin of sobriety!

Prayer Requests
1. Pray for us to find just the right children's director.
2. Michelle's back and stomach have had a flare up in the past few days.
3. My studying for ordination

Kat and Kahli leave Cali

2008-07-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Since June 25th Kahli has been with us. It has been a marvelous time and her mom Katrina aka Nana, joined us on July 11th. These are just a few things Kahli did while here in sunny southern California!
1. Took at least 30 dance classes
2. Horton Plaza...an amazing mall
3. The Island of Coronado
4. The San Diego Zoo
5. Sea World from 2:30-9pm with only Faith, Isaac and Kahli pushing a stroller
6. 6 church services
7. Fed the homeless
8. Went to LA
9. Saw Hollywood, the Kodak Theater, Mann's Chinese Theater, the Walk of Fame
10. Went to the beach 5-7 times
11. Watched fireworks on the July 4th and had a marshmallow fight after
12. Went to see the movie Wall - E
13. Ate at least, well I really have no idea, but a she ate a ton of corn quesadillas.
14.Went to Beverly Hills
15.Ate at a Wendy's restaurant on Sunset Blvd.

16.Experienced LA traffic...going nowhere fast!
17.Saw the Red Carpet for Mariah Carie
18.Actually drove in California
19.Toured a Coast Guard ship. A friend of ours is the Captain of the ship and he and his crew were heading for Alaska but stopped over in San Diego.
20.Had her eyebrows waxed
21.Had a pedicure
22.Rode in a convertible
23.Rode rides at Mission Beach
24.Surfed
25.Went boogie boarding
26.Hung out with Uncle Greg
27.Did 30 loads of laundry
28.Emptied the dishwasher 20 times
29.Saw a diabetes specialist

30.Had lots of laughs with her Mimi

31.Went to Old Town San Diego and had dinner with our friend Annie
32.Met a ton of people
33.Watched and recorded,"So You Think You Can Dance" every Wed. and Thurs. night and then we all watched them over again to "critique."
34.Received hundreds of hugs and kisses from Faith and Isaac

35.Lots, and lots of tears at the airport as we all said our goodbyes.

We love you Kahli and Nana and thanks for your awesome visit!!!!!

Harbor Church OB Worship

2008-07-21T23:53:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful time of Praise and Worship this past week. We are quickly out growing our room but it actually makes our times together so special with the Lord. God continues to bring the hurting to this place. We are seeing many reaching and searching for the truth. They have told us they feel led here even though they have no understanding of God or Jesus.

We thank our Heavenly Father for His faithfulness to bring His lost sheep home.

Pray that we will continue to be obedient to the Holy Spirit's leading. Many of our new friends are homeless and have many wounds and scars. We count it a privilege to feed them and mostly love them and share how crazy God is about them.

Congratulations to Andrew and Rebekah! Our church body was so blessed to observe Andrew asking for Rebeka's hand in marriage!!!

We are also thankful for how God is working in others lives to bring them to freedom from addictions. This is a hard road but they are hanging on so tightly to their Saviour.

Work Day At OB Elementary

2008-07-21T22:14:00.000-07:00

Back on Saturday, July 12, our launch team gathered to show love in a practical way to the community of OB by painting and cleaning around OB Elementary. Our family has loved this school all school year. It was so encouraging to see twenty five folks share in our love. It was amazing what you can get done in one day!

Let's Get Started

She's Here!!!!

2008-07-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

My best friend Katrina Hubbard who lives in SC finally made it on Friday night!!! We have not seen each other in six months. Her daughter Kahli has been with us since June and we've had a blast! Faith and Isaac have been literally counting down the days for her arrival on a specially made calendar. My kids call her "Nana". Isaac thought she and Kahli were here to stay forever, so he was a little upset when we told him for only 2 weeks.

Katrina and I are going on a girls only outing on Tuesday. We are renting a convertible and heading up the coast. It will be 24 hours (a little more actually) of kid free fun and six months of catching up conversation. We are suppose to spend the night in Santa Barbara but the wild fires may prevent us from going that far.

My back has not gotten much better. The physical therapy has only aggravated my nerves but I am still pushing through it. They have me on nerve medication and I can hardly fit into any of my clothes which is so sad since I have a lot of weight to lose anyway. At least I feel good. Still no sign of pituitary problems. I go to LA next week. I am really interested to hear what my doc says.

Please be in prayer for Kahli. She is seeing a diabetes specialist on Monday. My friend and pastor's wife Karen Klein is an Endocrinologist and has set Kahli up with an appointment. Karen and Bob are church planters for Harbor La Jolla and Mira Mesa. She has been such a blessing and help to me during my illness. Kahli is a very brittle diabetic and having some new eyes to look at her case will hopefully be beneficial.

Fireworks, Marshmallows, Oh My!

2008-07-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a blast! Our church had a BBQ at our community pool then we were heading out to see some fireworks. About 500 people paddled out by the OB pier to view the fireworks and then the rest of the beach and streets were filled with thousands of people. Jim viewed the fireworks from his surf board of course but we found out at the BBQ that people were actually selling their parking spots for $40-$100. So, Kahli and the kids and me set off in the van to view fireworks from wherever we could. I was just curious about the whole selling of parking spots so we drove downtown OB. They were right! People walked all the way from our house! But, in a moment of divine intervention, an elderly couple got in their car and left only a few blocks from the beach. We quickly took their space!!!! WE were so excited and couldn't believe it!

So we grabbed our chairs and headed for the beach with the masses. Almost every spot on the sand was taken but we squeezed in. We watched all the surfers making their way to the ocean in a long line.

The fireworks were great! They lasted about 35 minutes and the finale was incredible. Now for the really freaky, cool part! OB has a Marshmallow fight after the fireworks. We had heard about it but you really had to be there to believe it. I guess Southern Californians know they are never going to see snowfall and just decided to use the closest thing that represented snow.

The people started chanting, "Marshmallow Fight" right after the fireworks. There were marshmallows going every direction! Faith and Isaac didn't bring any but it didn't matter. Marshmallows were landing at their feet. It was more like an Easter Egg hunt for the kids. Isaac was doing the army crawl to avoid being hit but grabbing up all the marshmallows for his arsenal. We found marshmallows of every size. I even had a whole bag thrown at me! Kahli couldn't resist, she jumped right into the fight and I sat in my chair collecting the ones that came my way to hand off to the kids. We stayed until most of the crowd cleared out and then headed for our car.

It was a great way to celebrate our nation's independence. I'm pretty sure our founding fathers never dreamed marshmallows would be used to observe July 4th. I guess it is better having Marshmallows "bursting in air" than bombs any day, at least on American soil.

Happy Independence Day! by M. Huster

2008-07-03T21:18:00.000-07:00

You can definitely tell that summer is here because of all of the extra people in San Diego...i.e. tourists. Last weekend OB had it's annual chili cook-off and street fair. Thousands showed up and took over our little community. We couldn't meet at our school because of the festival so we had our meeting at the park across the street from our house. We had the OB pause...planes flying over head but it was a good time.

Tomorrow, we are having a July 4th party at our pool and then heading for the beach to see the fireworks.

Kahli has been such a treasure and we have had a blast with her. Today, she and I got out and did a little girl time. She has been taking dance classes and lovin' it! The kids adore her and Katrina is counting down the days until she arrives!

A few prayer requests and praise...
1. Jim's dad had ear surgery this week and all went well.
2. Please continue to pray for Cameron ( Jim's sis with Leukemia).
3. Courtney...she is in AZ getting help with her anxiety and OCD. She will be back in August.
4. My side of the family which has lost a brother and a brother- in- law.

Have a great Holiday!

Back from Mexico, Kahli is in Cali

2008-06-30T03:04:00.000-07:00

We had a nice time in Mexico for our vacation. We were on the Baja peninsula in a beautiful community called Los Gaviotis. The surf was great for Jim and me and the kiddies enjoyed the ocean front pool. Uncle Greg joined us for a few days along with some of Jim's surfing buddies. It was never boring. We are all tan and ready for summer.

Just as we arrived back on Wednesday, Kahli came in from SC. Wow! We have missed that girl so much! She will be with us for a month and Katrina will arrive in less than two weeks. It is so good having Kahli here. She is such a gift from the Lord and has so much energy and love for everyone. She starts some dancing classes tomorrow and she is very excited about it. We checked out her studio this week and the folks were so nice. The kids are so stoked to have her here. Her mom is not fairing so well without her so say a prayer for Katrina.

Family by M. Huster

2008-06-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

I have always been a family kinda of girl. I have been so blessed with a wonderful family from my dad and mom's side. It doesn't take long to know how blessed you are until you talk with others and the pain that their families have inflicted.

So what can I say about my extended family....They are all precious to me. My dad is one of seven my mom one of three girls. All of my aunts have mothered and nurtured me throughout my life. My uncles have been like Grandpas, always making me feel so special and like my life was so important. I have an endless number of cousins and they have been my closest friends through life.

Moving out here to San Diego to plant a church has had its sacrifices. For me, my extended family. Thankfully, we have phone calls and emails but when tragedy strikes, I am just too far away.

My Aunt Katie and Uncle Marshall (my dad's sister and her husband) have produced so much laughter in my life. They are super friendly and funny. You can hear my Aunt Katie laughing for miles! She has the greatest laugh! Uncle Marshall has all the funny stories and keeps you on the edge of your seat for the punch line or the dramatic ending!

Unfortunately, he passed away on Sunday. As many of you know, I just lost my other Uncle Ken a few months ago. This has hit me pretty hard. Not being able to be there and hug on my Aunt Katie, not being able to hold onto and "take care" of my Aunt Sue who just lost my Uncle Ken. I know this will be painful for her. You see, all that nurturing rubbed off on me. That is what I do. That is what all of my family does.

My mom was not a Connor by birth but she was one of the best. She came from a family of nurturing sisters, who now, since she is gone, watch over me. All that love... where does it come from? Jesus. My family has a legacy of loving and being crazy about Jesus. That is why we love so intensely for each other. That is why when we lose one, we are all there to help hold each other together.

You don't have to be born into the Connor family. Many have married their way in but most have been "adopted." When you come to a family gathering as new to the family...you find out pretty quickly that you belong there. Conversations are filled with stories, we even get my dad to play the piano so we can all sing. In our family, gossip has no place, no one is plotting against the other or being manipulative. We just love each other warts and all.

We have been blessed by God to have a family like this. In fact, the family of God looks like this and even better. I now have new brothers and sisters in Christ here in San Diego who help me hold things together when tragedy strikes or rejoices with me when good news is heard.

So if you don't possess a treasure like my earthly family, take heart because the family of God is so awesome and we will never be separated for long.

Uncle Marshall and Uncle Ken were on opposite sides of the political spectrum. I guess you could say this was probably one of the "hot" topics in our family. They agreed to disagree and loved each other just the same. So I guess maybe they are together in heaven debating the November election, or maybe...they already know who won and really don't care. Who would when you are with Lord? One thing is for sure, they both "voted" and gave their lives to be sons of the living God and they made out big time!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Jim and I would like to take this opportunity to wish our dads a very Happy Father's Day! You guys have been such an incredible force in our lives and we love you very much. Faith and Isaac love their Papa Allen and Grandpa Huster. Have an awesome day!!!!HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO YOU TOO JIM! LOVE, FAITH, ISAAC, AND KAHLI!!!!!!!

Lots of Updates

2008-06-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have wanted to update and send out a ton of blogs but because of my back I haven't really felt like it. Thankfully, I am making progress and my physical therapy has been very beneficial. The pictures below are little snapshots of what has been happening with the Husters!

This is/was our wonderful babysitter, Danielle, who we are going to miss like crazy! She just graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University as a Ministry Major and is now working in a church in Colorado. Her twin Desire' will be taking over in the fall. We love them both and wish God's best for each of them!
We were very blessed and excited to be able to visit with Hope who is a member of Covenant Presbyterian in Easley, SC. She was here on business and it was so good to see a face from back east!

Girls Day Out!! Faith and I had a great time at the Nail and Beauty Salon. She wanted to go for a shorter look. I think it makes her look older :( which I am not ready for. We had a blast doing the girlie thing!

TOES and FINGERS

Faith had flowers put on her big toes and thumbs....

Of course Isaac didn't get his hair and nails done but he never misses a photo opportunity!

This is our dear friend, Annie Lam. She is such an angel and a beautiful person God has placed in our lives. She is a member of Harbor Mid-City and works with their Prayer and Healing Ministry. She has been a huge help to us since my back went out. We love you Annie!!!

What Will Chapter 2 Look Like?

2008-06-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was the last meeting our launch team had at Mike Reed's home. Mike had a great home for our team to gather. We are now off this weekend to OB Elementary, down in the heart of Ocean Beach. If I could have written a script a year ago about our first four months as a launch team, I could have never dreamed it to be so good.

During the past four months, we have heard some amazing life stories about what God has been doing with members of our team. We were able to celebrate with Michelle being healed on March 15. The Easter sunset service was so cool. I hit the crescendo of the gospel message just as the sun was setting. Talk about cool pyrotechnics. I loved watching our team praying with folks after the message. Looks like we will be having lots more services down at the beach.

Praises:

1. Our worship team is starting to take shape and I think we nailed the demographic for OB for worship style.

2. Courtney, the young lady who has been living with us, is being set free from some heavy oppression. I have the seen Jesus work more miracles in her life in the past six weeks than anytime in my life.

3. Great Surf Trip to Baja over Memorial weekend. We had two amazing teaching and prayer session. Oh, the waves were crazy good too!

Prayer Ammo:

1. Michelle's back is still hurting. She had a epidural Thursday, but the pain has actually increased instead of decreasing. The intense pain is a struggle.

2. Good friend Cynthia, who has suffered with chronic illness for years. We are praying for healing.

3. Tommy and Carlos, who are struggling with addictions. They are believers but need lots of "barrowed hope."

Go Girl!!

2008-05-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Jim's sister Cameron Huster who has been battling with Leukemia was able to go back to NYC and graduate with her Masters from Mannes. We are so proud of her.

She has had a very difficult time with her treatment but has had so much grace in her suffering.
Her mom, Pen, also has been so faithful and right by her side. Jim's dad even drove from NYC back to their home in Florida so Cameron could have her harp back in Deland.
She has a busy summer already and will begin her doctoral degree in the fall. Thank you to all who have faithfully prayed for Cameron. We love you Cameron and we thank God for your precious spirit and your life!!!

You can keep up with Cameron's progress at this link...
http://www.caringingbridge.org/visit/cameronhuster

My Circumstances Don't Dictate My Joy in the Lord! M. Huster

2008-05-24T18:17:00.000-07:00

OK, so we all know that the Lord Jesus healed me on March 15,2008. What an awesome time it has been being delivered from my pituitary disease and depression. However, on April 28,2008, I injured my back. I have been in a great deal of pain and unable to do what I need to do for my family AGAIN! I asked the Lord, WHY NOW? Did He deliver me just to have me go back to an affliction again.
After spending many times in His Word and in prayer, the Lord has been so good and sweet. He has kept my spirit strong and I have been able to minister to folks in a new way, even while I am limited physically. I praise God for my healing and I still praise Him even in this trial. Jesus truly is enough! I am confident that He will not let my hope,joy, and faith be robbed from me. I praise Him whether in want or in plenty, sick or healthy. His comfort and sweet communion has truly transformed my heart. I have tasted the incredible love of my Saviour and have received His compassion. Every time I have called on His Name when in distress, He shows up. Maybe not early or late, but always right on time and in a way I could have never dreamed! I love my Jesus and I just wanted to thank and praise Him publicly! He is good all the time!

OB Plant

2008-05-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

Our launch team has been meeting since the first week in February in a home. We are making the transition now from a launch team into more of an Acts 2 home church. Starting in June, we will start meeting at OB Elementary. There are several folks who have been promising to be a part of out launch team but have been waiting until we started meeting at the school. Maybe in their mind, it is a more familiar and a safer environment?

We are going to try something new for the summer. Instead of meeting on Sundays, we are going to try Saturday evenings. The Saturday evening time seems to fit the context of the OB situation. As things ramp up there are some specific prayer requests I would like you to pray with us about:
1. The Lord would provide a worship leader that has a heart to Shepherd folks.
2. A Children's director
3. Finance as we begin to purchase equipment to worship

Update

2008-05-12T15:16:00.001-07:00

I finally got my MRI results back and I have 2 discs that are giving me the trouble. I am waiting for an appointment with an orthopaedic doctor so I can get started on some physical therapy. I still have a great deal of pain when I sit or stand. I did go to the retreat this weekend but stayed in bed most of the time. It was good to be out even if most of my time was in my room. The kids were so glad that Mommy could go.

We are having to say good-bye to a precious person in our lives. Our babysitter Danielle, is graduating from Point Loma Nazarene University and moving on to Grand Junction CO so we are very sad but excited for her. Danielle is an identical twin and the cool thing is that her sister Desire' is picking up right where she left off. Hopefully, I will have some pictures next week when we go to Danielle's graduation party. Danielle has been such a blessing in our lives. We know that God is going to use her in mighty ways. We love you Danielle, and welcome Desire'!!!

Crazy

2008-05-09T00:17:00.000-07:00

Every day I tell myself to whip out a blog and well, it has been to long. Please forgive me. Couple updates: Michelle's back went out a week ago and she has been flat on her back. The first few days were tough for me seeing her back in bed, but I had to give the yoke of Michelle's health back to the Lord. Even though she has been laid up, Michelle's emotional and spiritual health has been really good. We have had folks over for prayer and we just gather around the bed. I wish you could see it. Michelle laying flat on her back in bed, her arms lifted up in the air singing and worshipping God. It is so cool.

Courtney, they young lady who has been living with us for the past month is doing so well. She has stepped up and carried our family while Michelle has been in bed. She is a cooking, cleaning, laundry washing machine. What a huge blessing.

A good friend, Robert, and I got lead a young man to the Lord today down at the Cliffs. His name is Richard. Please pray for him that we can connect with him. Also, pray for our Harbor wide retreat this weekend. I would love to have Michelle's back pain lift so she could participate.

Go, Go Go.....CRASH!

2008-05-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been a hectic busy month. With my health doing so well, I just can't seem to slow down. However, my body that has not been used in 6 years has finally revolted against the Theme Parks, Hiking, Gardening, cleaning, etc... I was putting Isaac in his car seat on Monday when I picked the kids up from school and a horrible thing happened. When I twisted, my back went out! I ended up in the ER with a slipped disc. The pain has been horrible but they have tried to make me as comfortable as possible. I have an MRI on Monday evening. So, I am back in the bed but this will pass soon and I will be back in the game in no time!

We enjoyed having Jim's mom here for two weeks. She is awesome! And I hope we didn't wear her out too much. My cousin Mary and her husband Ralph came in last Thursday for a long weekend. It was so good to have them here. Their oldest son David and his girlfriend Sarah live just over the river in Pacific Beach. It was great to have family here.

We have another member of our family, Courtney, she is almost 33 and has been working for Sea World for 9 years. She trains dolphins and killer whales. My kids think she is greater than Santa Claus. She has moved out of her apartment and will live with us as long as she wants. We will go through withdrawals when she leaves us.

The ministry is going great and God is moving in our lives and in the lives of our new friends and neighbors.

Have a great weekend and God Bless!
Michelle

Howdee Hoo

2008-04-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

It has been way to long and I apologize. Having a healthy wife is great but she can also wear you out. I have newsletter I have been working on for a few days and hope to get it out this weekend. It will have a more in depth ministry update. Wanted to bring up to speed on Caroline. She went to the US Consulate and was turned down for her student visa because it is so late in the school year. We are pursuing visitors visa now. Please keep praying.

Last Saturday, Faith had her 7th birthday on the beach. The weather was perfect and the day was a huge hit. Many of her friends from school attended the party. Michelle did a great job planning and executing this party. Funny note: after several games, cake, and opening presents, all the children ran with speed to the water, only to discover the water temp to be 58 degrees. It was a quick retreat. The top game of the day was chasing waves as they pulled out the running from the next wall of white water as the next wave approached.

Back during the Christmas break ,I began one of the coolest projects of my life. A good friend who is a Navel meteorologist helped me shape my first surf board. Chuck lived for years in Hawaii and learned the craft of shaping from some of the top shapers on the North Shore. We worked on it a couple hours a week for two months. I must confess that Chuck did most of the work, he just let me get my hands on the foam and get a feel for the technique. The board turned out awesome, it even has the Harbor OB logo on it. I shaped it specifically for the waves at Sunset Cliffs. It is a super fast board and holds a solid line deep in the pocket of the wave and should be a barrel riding machine. (see side column pix)

Uncle Ken by M. Huster

2008-04-04T16:24:00.000-07:00

This week my Uncle Ken went home to be with the Lord. This has been a very hard time not being able to say my final good-byes being here in California and my family back east. My dad is one of seven children and my Uncle Ken and Uncle Bill have been the only ones who have moved on from this life. My dad is the baby of the family so I didn't know my grandparents. Thankfully, God meets even our emotional needs. He gave me 6 wonderful Aunts and Uncles including their precious spouses to be my "Grandparents." Another Grandfather has gone home.

Here is a list of some ways he impacted my life....

He always made me feel pretty and told me I was his favorite niece. (really he told all his nieces that.)

He always listened to me talk, even when I was really young when most adults want you to be quiet.

He faithfully came to visit us often even if he only stayed 10 minutes. (He stayed longer as he got older.) Inside family joke!

He loved beautiful cars and taught me to appreciate and love them too.

He taught me how to drive a five speed when I was twelve years old while vacationing in the mountains!

The day of my mom's funeral, he let me drive one of his prized cars...a candy apple red restored Cutlass.

He always had funny stories to tell.

He loved to work crossword puzzles.

I spent every summer at his and Aunt Sue's summer mountain house.

I loved the smell of his pipe.

He loved to take walks.

He taught me how to "properly" wash a car.

He taught me never to buy a car that was an odd color and also never to buy a car where the door handles and side mirrors don't match the color of the car.

He was a military man and taught me what true patriotism is.

He loved his country.

We always enjoyed going "out to eat" as an extended family...the Connor's plan their vacations around the best restaurants!

He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone.

This list could go on forever. My Uncle Ken was my friend and more like a grandfather than an uncle. He loved me and always made me feel so special. He gave the best hugs and always made time for me. He will be greatly missed.

I love you Uncle Ken. What a glorious time you must be having with our Lord, my mom, your parents, your brother, and your 2 sons. We will join you soon for this life is short. As Aunt Sue said, you are probably kicking the tires and checking things out. Maybe the Lord will put you in charge of the Royal Chariots!

Your loving niece,
Michelle

Living The Dream

2008-04-04T09:12:00.000-07:00

So, this is how everyone else lives? It has been so good having a healthy wife and learning how to live with a new family dynamic. The whole way I build my schedule has changed. At 2:10 each day, I would normally be picking of Faith and Isaac, but not anymore. Little things like Michelle picking the kids up has been huge. What is really cool is seeing Michelle love and minister to folks. The Lord has open doors for us to walk with folks who are going through tough situations. We have even been able to be a part of some huge spiritual break-throughs, which is so cool.

We have precious girl staying with us for a few weeks. Courtney is walking the healing road from past abuse. Please pray the Lord would continue to fill her with the true of His love for her and that the lies which have had such power of her life be dispersed. It is so encouraging to see a live transformed right before your eyes.

On sad note: Michelle's uncle Ken (Connor) passed away yesterday. Michelle was very close to her uncle Ken loved him dearly. She has found great comfort in knowing that his faith rested solely on the complete work of Christ. Ken loved working on old cars, which leads to Michelle's aunt Sue's comments, "He's up kicking tires in heaven now."

Praise: We have were offically approved to rent Ocean Beach Elementary for our worship. This week, our launch team will begin to transition in an Act 2 home church model. Church planting is so humbling but sooo good.

Still doing great! M. Huster

2008-03-24T15:48:00.000-07:00

Every morning Jim pokes me to see if I am still breathing and when he realizes I am, he then whispers, "Are you feeling OK?" Yes, I am feeling great and still cannot believe the radical change in my life. I feel like I am living a dream and soon I am going to wake up. But the reality is that this is not a dream and God in His glorious power and mercy has made me well. I want to thank ALL of you who have faithfully prayed over the years for me. God heard your prayers and had compassion on me. I am going to have blood work done this week and I am interested to see the results. My doctor called wanting to get me started in the Pituitary study at UCLA and I hope that my results show that I am not the patient for the job.

My folks, Allen and Shirley Connor have celebrated with us since last Monday and they will be going home on Wednesday. Greg Langley also had the week off so we have been tourists for Spring Break. I feel like I have been at camp. We visited The Wild Animal Park (part of the San Diego Zoo), Sea World, one of our friends is a whale trainer and we actually got to meet and go behind the scenes to see "Shamu", and then on Saturday we went to the Flower Fields. On top of all that, we had wonderful services this weekend starting with Good Friday, Sunday Morning, and a Sunset service on the beach. What an awesome time I've had.

I do have a very special request. Jim's sister Cameron was diagnosed with Leukemia not long ago and is now undergoing chemotherapy. This is not pleasant at all and at times can be very tough. Cameron has such a sweet spirit and also a fighting one! Please join us in praying for her treatment, comfort, and healing.

Resurrection Power...M. Huster

2008-03-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

Then Jesus told them plainly,"Lazarus has died and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But now let us go to him." John 11:14....We all know the end to this story. Lazarus was dead but Jesus came and resurrected him from the grave.

Saturday afternoon the Lord Jesus also brought me back from the "grave". I am talking about the grave of depression, despair, hopelessness, sickness, and fear. Since 1999 my health has been in a downhill spiral leading to surgeries, loss of all pituitary hormones and infection. God has been with me through this whole time. You can truly never understand the effects of chronic illness in others until you have experienced it yourself. My heart has been broken for the sick and a new kind of compassion and empathy has taken a new place in my soul. Since 2001, my illness has been at its peak and I have faced many valleys and some hills.

When God called us to San Diego last year, I thought it was the craziest thing in the world. How could He ask me to leave the very people I loved and the support that surrounded our family. All I know is that He did and I obeyed even though it totally went against my logical thinking. After we arrived in July of last summer, I did have peace in my heart that we did the right thing, this was now home to me. I was excited and expectant to see what the Lord was going to do. However, as Jim connected with people and amazing things began to happen in the ministry, my health began to fail even more. It was as if the more God blessed and made Himself known by working through Jim, the sicker and sicker I became. This led to isolation from even the few people I knew to the point to where I was closed up in my room and unable to even be surrounded by my children and husband.

I had gotten the flu before Thanksgiving and since then I have battled with infection after infection. I really thought I was going to lose my mind! In late January, I came across a Pituitary Specialist in LA that was helping some of the most difficult pituitary cases. I contacted him and got an appointment immediately. After 3 days in LA and test after test, the conclusions came back worse than ever. I had lost more function of my pituitary, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that attacks the stomach, I had become insulin resistant and had deficiencies of so many other things. I was somewhat relieved to know that what my body was going through was real and that it just wasn't in my head. Dr. Friedman immediately changed my whole hormone replacement regimen and added even more drugs and supplements to my already long list. I began treatment but got another infection from the kids. He said I would have to literally quarantine myself from them if my immune system was ever going to recover. This was so painful and led to even more isolation and despair. For the first time since the beginning of my sickness, I had seemed to of lost all hope and faith. I knew God loved me and cared for me but I just couldn't feel His presence in my life anymore. It seemed that darkness was all around me.

So, when my friend who is also a Harbor Pastor's Wife called me and told me that some sweet ladies from Alabama were in town and wanted to come and pray over me, I kinda shrugged it off. Many people have prayed over me and FOR me countless times and God had chosen not to heal me. Little did I know that the time had come and He was ready to reveal His Glory.

Saturday afternoon they entered our home and we sat and talked for a while. After hearing my story they felt it was time to pray. I can't explain in words what happened to me that day but the supernatural power of God began to pour down from heaven. The depression, darkness, fear, isolation, hopelessness and despair began to be driven from my soul and the Holy Spirit replaced it with such a peace and joy that blew me away. Jesus had come and set me free!!! I began to laugh so hard and sing praises to Him, singing, "Hallelujah, He has found me whom my soul so long has craved, Jesus satisfies my longings, through His blood I now am SAVED!" The darkness was gone and I was made new. The enemy of my soul had been driven out and his oppression and lies were gone! I now know that the darkness and sickness was an attack on me from Satan himself.

I truly believe the Lord has healed me. We went out to dinner Saturday night as a family to celebrate God's healing on my life. You have to know that I have not been out of the bed for months more less going out to dinner! On the ride home, Faith proclaimed to us that "Jesus has healed Mommy." I have had so much energy and it is like I was never sick! Last week I was so desperate that I called my folks and begged them to come out here this week to help the family. They quickly came with wanting to care for us. They arrived last night and I picked them up from the airport. I had just come from going on a date with my husband and then going to a Bible study. Their coming to help us in our time of need has turned into a time of celebration and vacation for them and me!

I want to praise the Lord Jesus, the King of my soul and ruler of all creation. He did not leave me nor abandon me in my time of trouble but rather He came and showed His great love and compassion through His incredible mercy and power. I am completely humbled to have received such a blessing that I do not deserve. Rather, I deserve death, but He has given me life. I don't know if my pituitary is completely healed. Only the test results will show that. What I do know to be true is that the Great Physician has healed my spirit and whatever life may bring, I can face it and know that God is with me.

As Jim introduces me to our friends and family he says, "I would like for you all to meet my wife, "Lazarus." So many of you may ask just like I am, why did God do this? "Jesus answered, This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." John 11:4 This touch of God is not about me but all about God's glory. I love my Jesus so much! My prayer for you is that you be encouraged and empowered to know that God still performs miracles, that He still sets the captive free and His power and majesty is REAL! Praise be to the KING OF GLORY!

WOW

2008-03-16T22:16:00.000-07:00

Where do I start? First, we have not heard any news from Ben or Caroline in over a week. We have been waiting for an appointment with the US Consulate in Uganda. As many of you know several Central African countries, who have been stable for years have erupted. The result is that millions of refugees have poured into Uganda in the past few weeks, many of them seeking political asylum. The US embassy has been flooded. So, we are on stand by again.

Well.... here is some of the best news I have ever had the privilege of sharing. Saturday evening, we had three Godly women visit our home to pray for us. The darkness and oppression associated with Michelle's illness and depression had become overwhelming. These women prayed scripture over Michelle and she was delivered from this darkness. Her body was freed! We are still trying to figure out what all of this means, but 24 hours later, we believe and testify to the fact that she has been healed by Jesus! Much more to come in days ahead. Celebrate and praise the name of Jesus with us.

Email From Ben

2008-03-03T12:33:00.000-08:00

Hi Jim,

Thank God Michelle is doing better as you remember we got things a little late and nothing would take place other than acknowledging that all docs were in place. I have managed to get her a student pass that would have authorizd her to be in school in Uganda. This is very important considering the fact that she is Rwandese. We are going to make an appointment tomorrow morning and hopefully she does the interview on Wednesday. God has already done this praise

God Blessings,
Ben

Saturday night and still no word?

2008-03-01T19:47:00.000-08:00

Ben has been so good at keeping in touch with us this past week, but we have not heard anything since Thursday afternoon. Please pray for Ben's health. Something must be going on for us not to hear anything.

Michelle arrived from LA last evening wiped but in good spirits. Today has been good day to recover and rest up. She will get a report in two weeks from all her tests. Have a great Sabbath!

Still No Word

2008-02-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

It is Friday morning, just after 10:30 and I still have not heard from Ben. He was to meet with the US Consulate today. Please pray for Ben's health. He sounds worn down and sick from many sleepless nights.

Michelle should be home this evening from LA. She has an MRI at noon.

Prayer and Praise

2008-02-29T10:29:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

I wanted to share some big answers to prayer. First, it looks like we may have a good chance getting Carolina soon. Ben has found an advocate who works in the US Embassy’s office. Plus, two pieces of paper work that came through today that are crucial to here coming. Ben and Caroline hope to have a meeting tomorrow (Friday) at the embassy. Please pray! We have been close several times before only to have the enemy snatch her.

Second, Michelle and a good friend traveled to LA yesterday to meet with one of the top research pituitary doctors. They met from 7 pm until midnight. Michelle will be running test until Friday afternoon. Her doctor called her the “perfect patient” and invited her to join his research at UCLA. This means all her expensive tests will be paid for, plus they are going to pay a little stipend along with travel and hotel expenses. I knew there had to be some way to make money out of our adventure? The real good news is that he believes there is real hope for major improvement in Michelle’s health. He has already dramatically changed Michelle’s treatment plan. It was good to hear hope in Michelle’s voice today.

Oh, by the way, the OB plant is jamming along. We have had two launch team meetings and both went great. Dick Kaufmann said I set two Harbor records. First, I had the largest number of attendees to our initial launch team meeting and second, the largest decline from week one to two, so much for records? We did have several families out last week but we also had several new folks too. What is really cool is the diversity the group and how our Heavenly Father is knitting us together.

Now, I just want to show off. It’s been in the 70’s and beautiful all week. I’m so thankful the Lord called me to San Diego !

Did It Really Take?

2008-02-17T20:59:00.000-08:00

For a few months, Faith and Isaac have not been interested in praying. In the mornings, we do our Bible time over breakfast then pray for the day. At bed time we do individual Bible time and prayers. They come up with excuses like, "I'm too tired to pray, you pray daddy." I don't want to force them into loving God, so I have been praying for wisdom.

This past week one evening, I put Faith and Isaac on each side of me on the couch told them I wanted to tell them the greatest story ever told. I took out a pen and paper and started drawing pictures of creation. My rendering of Adam and Eve was something to behold. Our time was pretty special. Faith tracked with me and had good questions. She even wanted to draw Jesus coming out of the tomb. Isaac was doing cartwheels and wanting to play with his trains. At then end, I asked Faith if she should tell me the story using the pictures we drew? She got it! Faith asked me if she could pray to receive God's free gift of eternal life? We prayed a sweet little heart felt prayer.

Faith is six years old. Would there be any real change? Overall, she was already a pretty amazing little girl. I just put Faith to bed a few minutes ago. She prayed one of the most beautiful prayers I have ever heard. I asked her why she like praying more? She said, "I love praying to God, now that He's in my heart. It is like getting a big hug from God!"

What is the real "stink" about skunks? M Huster

2008-02-12T20:00:00.000-08:00

OK, it has been a really long time since I have posted anything on this blog. Unfortunately, my health has been terrible because I seem to catch every new bug out there that my kids bring home from their germ infested schools!

However, this post is not about that. We have noticed something very strange around here lately and it seems that no one is really talking about it. Most every night, we start to smell that aroma that is not pleasing to the nose. It is that distinct smell of a skunk. At first we thought it was the San Diego river that is just a few blocks away but our security guard finally solved this puzzle for us. He came running over one night trying to avoid being sprayed by a skunk. Just the other evening this also happened to Jim.

So, my question is, why do we never see skunks as "road kill" on our streets? Back east you couldn't drive down a street without coming across a skunk in the road. I mean the east coast skunk has so much more wide open spaces and places to hide. There is more land than road...But here in the city we are all crammed up against each other in our houses, busy streets, big city, buses, trains, cars, you name it, it is really congested here. So why don't we see dead skunks in the road?

I guess our Darwin theorists would say that the west coast skunk has evolved and made adaptations to its' environment. Maybe it has a new sensory system that has evolved to let it know when oncoming traffic is approaching. Could it be that this system has improved the skunks eye site to see and understand the colors of traffic signals? These skunks are not afraid of man. No timidity here. They actual approach humans. Maybe they have developed a sense of humor too, like, "Let's see how fast this guy can run." and laugh about it over a couple of drinks at the bar down the street. Could it be they have a neighborhood watch program? Since everything in California is so regulated to the point where we have to pay to park in our driveway, the skunks may have also bought into this regulation system as well. The west coast skunk has become an environmental conservationist. They keep our roads free and clear of debris. However,work still needs to be done about our air quality.

As for the east coast skunk, well, it is still just a shy, small brained animal with a bushy tail that can't seem to stay out of traffic even when the odds are all in his favor.

Will the True Church Planter Step Forward

2008-01-28T23:10:00.000-08:00

Man, what an amazing few days. I preached a sermon and was examined on the floor of Presbytery Saturday, and I PASSED! What an amazing feeling of relief. But it gets better. I have known for little over a month, that this past weekend was going to be Harbor Ocean Beach's first gathering events. I planned two dessert vision parties. One for Saturday evening and one for Sunday afternoon. Things were lining up well until two weeks ago when I was given the dates for my exams. Same week, no problem, right? After a study session a week ago with Doug Swagerty (Senior Pastor of the Harbor network of congregations), it became clear I had a long way to go to get ready. So for about a week, my life was all about studying. Note to any aspiring church planters: don't plan your first launch events the week of licensure exams.

Saturday evening came and I pulled up to the Brewster's home (hosts) with Faith and Isaac, and Michelle and Greg right behind, thinking I wonder if anyone else is going to come tonight? Two couples I had poured a little time into called at the last moment to apologize for not coming. Amazingly, I had peace about our pending party of seven. But by 7:30 the Brewster's living room was maxed out and we were scrounging around the house and garage looking for chairs! I was so blown away. Most of the folks who came, I had little-to-no contact with before the meeting. I had not gathered anyone. What a great reminder - that Jesus is the real church planter here in OB!

The same scenario played out for Sunday's vision party. I hoped ten people would come. I invited more young singles to Sunday's dessert party. I had not seen any of them in well over a week. It's a weekend and there are so many options living in OB. So maybe if eight showed up I would be excited. Well, we packed out another living room again. The two parties were awesome. I was so encouraged by these folks' passion for a new congregation in OB.

Thank you for your prayers. The real Church Planter showed up big time!

One Small Step for Jim, One Giant Leap for Ordination

2008-01-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

With great excitement and relief I am glad to share that I passed the written and oral examination for licensure in the South Coast Presbytery here in southern California. It was actually an encouraging process. The canidates' committe was warm and friendly. I had heard horror stories of committees eating up and spitting out canidates, but I am convinced they were all for me. The questions they asked were thoughtful and approriate. The next step is to preach my sermon on Romans 5, "Rejoicing in Suffering" and to have a brief examination on the floor of Presbytery this Saturday. It is by no means a lay up, but the committe is not going to put you on the floor unless you are prepared.

I am so thanful, that in God's providence, my inlaws were visiting for eight days. They filled in the gaps with the kids while I disappeared for hours into my study cave. GLORY!

Please pray for our first two vision parties here in OB this weekend. Our first one is Saturday evening and our second is Sunday afternoon. I am so ready to start focusing my attention on planting this congregation.

Thank you again for all your prayers for my studies and examination. It could not have gone any better.

Glory

2008-01-14T11:45:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite books I read to Faith and Isaac is Curious George. Right after George (a monkey) is captured, he is taken by the man with the big yellow hat on a big ship. George is left to himself to explore the ship but told "not to get into trouble". "Once on the deck, things quickly begin to to happen and before you know it, first this, then this and before George could blink, he was submerged underwater." The good news is I don't feel washed overboard, yet. Things are starting to ramp up quickly. First, the date for my oral examination for my license in the the South Coast Presbytery is next Tuesday at 9:00 am. Please pray that my studying would honor him.

Next, I am super stoked (surfer lingo of excited) to share that I was able to lead young man named Mike to the Lord on Friday. It was so amazing to see how the Holy Spirit had prepared his heart! He was so pregnant for the gospel and about exploded when he received it. Also, I am getting things lined up for our first offical gatherings for the OB church plant. We will have two dessert vision parties in the next two weeks. I can't hardly wait!

God answers prayer!!!

2008-01-04T22:15:00.000-08:00

We are so excited to say that our dear friend Ben made it to the USA and the things that he had to attend to went in his favor!!!! We will pick him up from the airport in the morning! Thank you for all your prayers.

Prayer needed for African brother

2008-01-03T23:19:00.000-08:00

Hopefully, my dear brother and friend Benjamin is on his way to the United States. He is a native of Rwanda and became very close to our family when he attended the same seminary as Jim. He is going to be visiting with us in a few days then back to Rwanda. God has spared his life countless times and I know He has great plans for him. We long to see his precious face and be surrounded by his Christ loving spirit. Nothing in Africa is easy...so I pray that your plane is in the air!
We must give thanks in all things."
-Benjamin M.
Genocide Survivor Rwanda, 1994

Director of Reach Rwanda- "Bringing Reconciliation and Forgiveness through the Power of the Gospel"

Faith and Isaac with Ben for the last time in August of 2006.

Break Through

2008-01-02T12:25:00.001-08:00

For quite awhile Faith has been afraid to get on here bicycle. This may be surprising if you knew how much Faith loved to ride her bicycle around our neighborhood in Easley. During the summer, I encouraged her to venture in the brave new world of training wheel free bike riding. At first she was a bit nervous but gave it a good shot. To my surprise Faith kept making excuses why she did not feel it was “time” to try again. She did not have a bad experience the first time but now she wanted no part of her bike. Once we got to San Diego, I told her that she would have to practice five minutes a day. I gave a rousing speech on overcoming fears. To my dismay each of our practice times ended in tears. After a few days, I could not get Faith within three feet of her bike. I could not figure out what went wrong? My child was now permanently scared and hated her bike. Through the fall and winter Faith’s tricked out Barbee bike collected dust and just got in the way of our over crowded garage. It served as a constant reminder of Faith’s fear crippling her from the joy of riding a bike. Several of her classmates and their younger siblings ride their bikes to school. In a sarcastic tone, I would point them out to Faith. She would just hang her head and turn away in shame. How did this turn so bad? This may sound insignificant, but it broke my heart to see my little girl so defeated and the kicker was that I was responsible for most of the wounds. After praying, I went to her and asked forgiveness. I told her that she did not have to ever ride her bike and that it was OK.

Well after a few months, Faith climbed on her bike minus the training wheels yesterday. I lowered her seat so she could use it as a sit down scooter. After a few minutes she was riding down the driveway with her feet up. I told her that I thought she could probably peddle? In a blink of an eye, she put her feet on her peddles took off like a rocket. I cheered and shouted and our other neighbors who had seen the carnage of our summer practice sessions, joined in. It was such a cool moment. Faith beamed with pride. On January 1, 2008, Faith may have learned to ride her bike, but I learned even a more important lesson. The lesson of applying the Gospel of repentance and unconditional love to my children.

Christmas Surprises! by M. Huster

2007-12-29T12:01:00.000-08:00

We hope you all had a great Christmas! As many of you know, I have been very sick for about 6 weeks and to tell you the truth, this is getting really old. However, God continues to be faithful in loving me at my worst times. I haven't been able to do hardly anything, including Christmas cards but I finally got them all done last night. I was feeling especially rotten when I cried out to the Lord, "Help me! Is this going to last forever?"(my sickness) I even confessed my sins before Him and continued to pray. The Holy Spirit came soon with an answer, " Just keep writing." I thought that was a strange answer knowing I had over 100 cards to do. But after a few cards, something wonderful happened. This year we didn't put in pictures with our names typed at the bottom. I never got around to that. So I hand wrote a note in each card. All the sudden emotion came over me as I sat and looked at the stacks of cards I had completed. All those cards represented people in my life that are so special. Wow! I am truly blessed by others love, encouragement, and hope! Even in my worst times, God reminds me of the blessing of knowing Him and how He provides for all my needs. I thought those cards would be a burden, but they were the greatest gift!

Another great surprise our family got this Christmas was our dear friends Kahli and Katrina Hubbard showing up and surprising us on Christmas night!!! The kids went wild and they have been such a blessing this week! Faith and Isaac had been asking Santa to bring Kahli and Katrina here for Christmas. We encouraged them rather to pray and ask God for a miracle. Boy, were they surprised when they went into the garage Christmas evening to find one more or may I say two more presents! I really didn't know how Christmas was going to turn out but it has been such a joy being with friends near and far. My precious husband arranged their visit and it was actually my gift this year. He knew I needed my dear friend to help me. I am truly blessed.

I also want to praise the Lord for my new medication, Adult Growth Hormone. I have started replacing it but can't tell a lot of difference just yet. It will take a few weeks. It is very expensive but the Lilly drug company has paid for all my meds! What a blessing!

Our dear friend Benjamin from Rwanda arrives in San Diego January 5th. Please pray for safe travel and for everything to go smoothly in Washington DC.

Today is Richard and Penny Huster's Anniversary! (Jim's dad and step-mom) Happy Anniversary!

Thank you sweet friends for all your love and prayers this year. May 2008 be the year where God uses us all to bring others to Him!

Happy Anniversary

2007-12-18T23:05:00.000-08:00

Today is our 14th Anniversary! We can't believe it has been that long. We are so thankful that the Lord Jesus put us together and we made our covenant before Him and witnesses on December 18,1993 in Hickory, NC.

This is a photo of our first "formal" date back in college at Lenoir Rhyne (Christmas Social). Oh how we have changed!!!

Count "MY" Blessings Part 2 M. Huster

2007-12-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Well yesterday I wrote about my blessings and struggles. Tonight I have an update about my struggles turned to blessings.

1. I got a call today that my Growth Hormone prescription HAS BEEN APPROVED!!!!!
2. GH usually costs $1000 a month and mine is free with no copay!
3. God controls everything...even HMO's.
4. There are 30+ people in my house and they ate all my food. (I mean they enjoyed my cooking.)
5. I am snuggling with Isaac...he goes to the doctor tomorrow.
6. Even though I felt so bad, I was able to cook and decorate for our party tonight.
7. I am thankful for my nice big bed that I am getting ready to crash into in after this blog!

GO GOD

Count "My" Blessings. M Huster

2007-12-16T20:06:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the song, "Count Your Blessings"....name them one by one.... I suppose I should start with my blessings but this week has had its challenges. Let me list a few.

1. I was denied by my health provider Growth Hormone that I desperately need.

2. My double ear infection returned with an upper respiratory infection, so back to the doc and more antibiotics and rest, rest, rest.

3. Isaac came down with a fever and now is complaining of an ear ache.

4. My dishwasher is broken with it full of dirty dishes and I can't get my landlord on the phone. We are having our Monday Night Bible study over for a party tomorrow night. (without a dishwasher) 30+ folks

5. Our babysitter went home on Christmas break.

Now for the blessings

1. My Father is the Creator of the world.
2. I have the most wonderful husband.
3. Isaac and I have been bed buddies and snuggled the past 2 days.
4. Faith has read books to me and we have worked on homework in my bed with all the fluffy pillows around us.
5. My cleaning lady is coming tomorrow.
6. Jim did six loads of laundry and I folded.
7. I have a great "sister" in Katrina (Nana) and a precious "daughter" in Kahli.
8. My neighbors don't think I am strange sitting outside in my pj's soaking up my vitamin D.
9. I am blessed with a wonderful dad (Allen), step mom (Shirley), Mother in law (Nancy), Father in law (Richard) Mother in law (Pen) and all my brother and sisters in laws and step brothers and sisters, my brother Phillip and all my nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents.
10. Faith never ceases to amaze me with her love and creativity.
11. Harbor Church has much grace for me and I think they don't regret hiring us with all my issues.
12. The Harbor wives are my sisters and I can share my trials and triumphs with them.
13. Lois Swagerty is as twisted as I am, and you too Liz.
14. I live in the most beautiful place in the world.
15. My sweet Caroline is waiting to come home and working hard on her English.
16. Benjamin is safe and healthy and will be visiting in January.
17. God knows me and loves me anyway.
18. My extended family of the Connor's make me laugh so hard and have passed down a legacy of family and Christ.
19. My Grandfather Connor planted over 40 churches in his lifetime.
20. My mother was the most Godly woman I ever knew. She taught me so much.
She has a homecoming birthday on December 22.
21. My mother's family the Mills are so precious to me. Her sisters take good care of "little Michelle."
22. My cousin David lives 2 miles away!
23. I live in an age of medical technology that has allowed me to live.
24. My house is decorated for Christmas!
25. Our home church Covenant has been so good to us.
26. I got up this morning and got dressed.
27. Jim preached in an inner city section of San Diego today.
28. I am a part of an incredible family of God.
29. My kids think I can fix anything.
30. Our partners in ministry. We could not be here without you!
31. For our friends and family.
32. Uncle Greg lives only 15 minutes away!
33. Both of our cars are paid for.
34. I can't make God love me anymore or any less than He already does.
35. I don't control anything. Thank goodness!
36. I did all my Christmas shopping online.
37. Half of my Christmas cards are addressed.

I think you get the message....I could go on and on.

God is good all the time!

From the wise words of King Solomon, "The End is better than the Beginning."

December Already? by M. Huster

2007-12-09T22:58:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe it is already December. We have been here for almost 6 months and up until now it has felt like summer. The temperature is dropping and we have actually had rain! We have no heat, don't feel sorry for us, nobody on the coast does. But we have been using our fireplace and it has been so cozy. The kids are really excited about Christmas. They have seen parades and the lights around the city are incredible. You can go skating downtown, or sledding at Petco park where the Padres play. Everyone is out shopping and going to parties, concerts, special services, etc...

As for me, I have been watching my family come and go as I have been at home a lot! I had the flu before Thanksgiving then after flying home, I go a double ear infection, a sinus infection, and bronchitis. Wow! I am on the mend now but with low energy levels. Going to church tonight was so good. Even though I was tired and weary, my heart was filled with joy worshiping the Lord with my fellow believers. The time I have spent lying in bed has not been in vain. I pray for many of you and the Lord brings folks to my mind to intercede on their behalf. I don't know why my health continues to be a struggle but I know I could not make it without my Heavenly Father and a wonderful husband.

I want to share a huge note of praise. Many of you know that I have a rare pituitary disease which has changed my life completely for the past 6 years. Karen Kline is the wife of Bob Kline and they are church planters with Harbor. Karen is a pediatric endocrinologist. She called me about a month ago in tears knowing about all my struggles. She asked is she could come over and go through my medical records. She had been talking with her colleagues about my condition and they all felt that another function of the pituitary was in decline or full failure. She just wanted to see if my records proved their hypothesis. So, she came over and Karen, myself, and Jim sat in the living room discussing my struggles since 1999. Karen picked up quickly that my Growth Hormone was low and had been declining every time they had taken blood work. She asked if she could call my new doctor and have the test done again. If it showed a rapid decline again, then she said she felt that was the missing piece of my pituitary problems.

The test was done and sure enough the numbers had dropped dramatically!! I am now waiting for my insurance to approve getting GH injections which cost around $1000 a month. I was just blown away that Karen cared enough about me, a person she really didn't know, and took the time to help me. She has such a huge heart and has become a great friend.

I will keep you posted on how things turn out. But in the meantime, I am so thankful that I am a part of the family of God. My sweet sisters here and back east continue to lift me up and the Lord Jesus uses you all in so many ways. I give thanks and praise to the Lord for He is good no matter what my circumstances may be. I serve a great and glorious God! Thank you Jesus for sending your Son to us to give us new life!!

Merry Christmas Friends!
Michelle

Big Wednesday

2007-12-05T15:33:00.000-08:00

Today, the largest the swell of the year started filling in. It was a solid 10' to 15', which translates in some huge bombs. I did not venture out this time. Too much water moving around and I am not in the swimming/paddle shape that I need to be with a family depending on me. Tomorrow will be a few feet smaller so I plan to be charging. Enjoy a few photos:

Has it Been A Year?

2007-12-04T23:30:00.000-08:00

One year ago, Michelle and I traveled out to San Diego to spend a few days with the folks at Harbor Presbyterian Church. We knew the amazing vision and impact Harbor was having in San Diego, but came seeking God's clarification of his call. It was at there bi-annual staff retreat at Polamar Mountain that we became convinced of our call to church planting with these men in San Diego. These men are a band of brothers, who in messy ways have lives marked by grace.

This week marks our anniversary of sorts. I just got back today from Polamar Mt. It is pretty crazy to think about all of the things that have happened to get to this point. Being a part of the Harbor staff for the past six months has been one of the greatest blessing of my life. Stepping out in this new faith journey has had some tough moments for sure but it has been so good. I am most thankful to the people who have sacrificially partnered with us to enable us to fulfill our calling. The OB Wave should be hitting the net by the end of the week.

Tim Tebow for Heisman!

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T17:37:00.000-08:00

Well it's Thanksgiving evening and I am stuffed. I had to unbutton my jeans because they were too tight around my waist. Always a good sign of a nice Thanksgiving. We have all been visiting back east for the past eight days. We were able to visit with lots of family and friends in North and South Carolina. A highlight was surprising Michelle's Aunt Suzy at the school where she teaches. We arrived about thirty minutes before school dismissed and checked in at the office. The office secretary wanted to lead us herself to Suzy's class to see her reaction. She knocked on the door and peaked her head in and said, "Suzanne, you have a visitor." With that, Isaac impatiently busted in and we heard Suzy shriek, "Isaac!". We quickly followed witnessing Aunt Suzy's priceless reaction. She ran to the door and we were able to hold her as she melted and cried in our arms.

You see Aunt Suzy was the only family we had close to us while we lived in Easley, South Carolina. She walked with us through many ups (birthdays, Thanksgivings, Christmases) and lots of downs (Michelle's health problems). So to say it was painful to leave Aunt Suzy to move to San Diego would be an understatement. And because of scheduling we had not be able to visit with her for the three days we were in Easley. She thought we had left town without seeing her. It was so much fun to surprise her! WE LOVE YOU AUNT SUZY!!!!

Abba, "Daddy"

2007-11-16T01:04:00.000-08:00

Right now I am up at 1am with my heart rate going 130bpm and I just can't sleep. Maybe because I get to go home to NC in the morning. Whatever the reason, I wanted to share a special moment I had with Caroline on the phone the other day.

As many of you know, Caroline is from Rwanda and Benjamin's sister. They are both survivors of the 1994 Rwanda Genocide. Anyway, we have been trying to get Caroline here to us for almost a year and a half. She suffered a horrible fate in June of 2006 that I could never begin to explain in a blog.

So I finally got word of how I could contact her personally by phone and check on her. We have been writing letters and missionaries have tried to make contact but communication has been very difficult. It was such a joy to hear her sweet voice on the other end of the line. I was so excited and had so much to say but controlled myself. The horrible event that took place last June has left physical, spiritual, and psychological scars. When I would speak with Ben, he said she had no joy in her life anymore. What a blessing it was to hear "joy" in her voice as we connected over a telephone wire!!

She asked how I was doing and all about San Diego. I told her we lived near the ocean and about how big and beautiful it is. She was so excited and told me she was taking tests to see how she would place in our system. She just started learning English a year ago but you would never know it. She spoke so clearly. She asked how Faith and Isaac were doing and to tell them how much she loved and missed them. Then the most incredible thing happened. Something we or Ben could have never imagined. She didn't ask how Jim was doing but instead she said, "How is Daddy?" You see this is quite a miracle from God because it was men who did such horrible things to her and we never knew if she would ever trust a man again. For her to call Jim "Daddy" made my heart leap and tears flowed. Nothing has been more difficult for Jim and me than to know how she is in so much pain and we just can't get to her and make it better. She is like our daughter and we love her so much.

For a brief moment, God let me feel what it must be like when we come to Him and say "Abba" Father, or "Daddy" for He is our Daddy who loves us so much. My prayer for Caroline is that she will allow herself to crawl upon her Heavenly Daddy's lap and let Him hold her, love her, and heal her wounds.

5 Days til Take Off! M. Huster

2007-11-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

In five days our family will board a plane and fly across this beautiful country to NC. I must admit that I am so thankful we are not in my minivan following a huge Penske truck! We have been marking off the days on our calendar. This has been Faith's #1 priority. We will go and stay with my folks in Hickory and then spend the weekend in Easley/Anderson. Jim is going to preach at Covenant and it will be so good to see all of our friends and family. We will return to Hickory to celebrate Thanksgiving.

However, one problem exists right now. Faith has an ear infection and then had an allergic reaction to the medication. Isaac started running a fever last night and Jim just left to take them back to the doctor. I have been feeling pretty well but today I began to feel achy and cold. For those of you who know me well, I am never COLD! I took my temp and it was 101.

So this morning I bought travelers insurance just in case we are all too sick to travel. This would be devastating to us but one thing we've learned is that things can change at any moment. We ask for your prayers for healing and safe travel. We have some friends coming in on Monday who are Church Planters in Las Vegas. I hope we don't pass on the crud.

October Birthdays

2007-11-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

How do you get all six of your grown children together?

Well for Richard Huster (Jim's Dad) it was turning 70 on October 29. Last weekend everyone flew or drove in to surprise their dad and to celebrate his life. Penny (Jim's step mom) did an absolute great job pulling all of this together.

From left to right; Ken (Charlotte, NC),
Tasha (Nashville, TN), Richard (Deland, FL), Jim (San Diego, CA), Sandra (Jacksonville, FL), Katherine (Cary, NC), in front Cameron (New York City, NY) *Penny is in the center of the lower picture behind Grandmother Heinig.****

Richard was very surprised and they had a great time catching up and also sharing old stories and pictures.

Richard and Pen did a great job helping their children bond and experience many adventures growing up. They went on family vacations every year, not usually using airlines for transportation but piling everyone in a large van and hitting the road! They also gave their kids the opportunities of great education and supported others in whatever career avenues they chose. Richard has been a generous father and he and Pen never miss a birthday, anniversary, or significant events in their children's and grand children's lives.

The Husters are known for throwing great parties, weddings, family gatherings but this one was very special because just the kids and Richard and Penny were together. Also attending were Ken's children Kyle and Ada and Grandmother Heinig.

So how do you get all of your grown children together at one time who are spread out all over the country? Have a birthday party for their dad who they love so much!

Isaac is 4!!!!!!

Our little man turned 4 on October 30th He wants everyone to know that it is one day after his Grandpa Huster's birthday.

We had a great time. Thomas again was the theme but he enjoyed the decorations and most of all the party guests. Katrina Hubbard and her daughter Kahli couldn't miss his birthday. They stayed from Thursday until Wed. the 31st. Uncle Greg was also here and played for hours with all the new toys, books, etc... Faith did a great job organizing all the presents and making sure everything was done properly.

We had a great time! Isaac continues to brighten our lives. We are so thankful for both of our children.

Happy Birthday
Grandpa and Isaac!

Fire Update

2007-10-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

Things have continued to get even worse for the San Diego community. This is becoming a Katrina type of disaster in scope and magnitude. As of 4:00 pm Tuesday, over 550,000 thousand people have been displaced. My step father's family all live in the San Diego area. Their story is typical of many of our residents. First, Great Grandma Lees got a call to evacuate her home in Rancho Bernardo on Sunday evening. She fled to my uncle's house who live in Poway. Early Monday morning they had to evacuate Poway. Now two families where on the move to a second uncle's home in Encinitas. Then yesterday afternoon they had to evacuate Encinitas. Thankfully, the Santa Ana winds that have fueled these fires are forecast to die down tomorrow afternoon.

The San Diego community has rallied around the needs of so many displaced people. Almost everyone who has not been evacuated has someone displaced staying with them. Most churches have organized the home placements because the shelters are full and there are no hotels for hundreds of miles. A group of folks from my Monday night Bible study went down to the local Red Cross this morning and went through the volunteer training. They were each deployed to these maxed out shelters. All of the National News broadcasts were here this morning and evening. The constant smoke in air reminds you of how heavy the situation is.

San Diego Fires

2007-10-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

We are asking for your prayers for our city and county. Yesterday fires began to burn when the Santa Anna winds blew in from the desert and the humidity levels dropped into the single digits. As of now, over 300,000 San Diegans have been evacuated and many have lost their homes. Fortunately, we are safe because we live at the beach and the winds from the ocean protect us. Many friends have been evacuated. Our Mayor claims this is the worst fire by far that has ever hit San Diego. Please join us in prayer for those around us who have lost everything. Also, pray as we minister to the thousands who are in need who have sought refuge at the Quail Com Stadium and other shelters.

Drew's Word

2007-10-19T22:18:00.000-07:00

"I've only known Jim for about two months but it feels much longer. He is one of those people you meet, hang out with a few times and feel like you've known all along. He's the good neighbor everyone wishes they had. The type of person you want your other friends to meet. Certainly the type of guy that people feel comfortable around and aren't afraid to be themselves with.

God put Jim in my life one day while surfing in Ocean Beach. I had
just moved to San Diego a week before and was already feeling pretty
isolated. With a limited network of friends in the San Diego area, I
knew I would have to trust in God to find a new church. Community is
really important to me, and I knew being disconnected from the support
that comes through fellowship with other believers would be dangerous
in a place like Ocean Beach.

After bumping into Jim out in the water and having a brief friendly conversation in between waves,
he invited me to church. Since then, I have not only found a wonderful body of believers to worship
with, I have also found purpose for being here. I know in my heart that God has big plans for Harbor.
Even in the short time since Jim has arrived, I can so tangibly see how God using him, not only in
my life, but in the lives of those in and outside our church. He's a pastor's pastor, one whose presence
is felt far beyond the pulpit."

Thanks Drew for encouraging words.  The Gospel is changing lives in San Diego!

Cool Injuries by Michelle Huster

2007-10-06T13:12:00.001-07:00

Every Monday night Jim and I lead a Bible study in Mission Hills with some really cool singles. We are the only married couple and these guys and gals lead some really interesting lives. They have such a heart for Jesus and it inspires me in my walk with Him.

Jim has an "ice breaker" every week to get to know everyone's name. He goes around the room and has them introduce themselves and state their favorite food, sport, etc... This past week the item was your worst injury.

Now on a side note, many of you may be thinking that is a little sick but let me give you some background about Jim's family. I love to get together will all the Husters (His dad Richard and step-mom Pen and all six siblings). They tell stories about the past which are quite hilarious about trips taken etc... One thing I found out early on when I married into the Huster family is that they have high pain thresholds and really don't think your that "bad off" unless there are bones protruding and gushing blood. The Huster motto is, "Just rub some dirt on it." One time Tasha dove into the pool and hit a float and hurt her neck. She complained for a few days and finally her dad took her to have an x-ray. (He's an orthopaedic surgeon) It was broken!

Not only does the current generation of Husters exhibit this amazing tolerance for pain, this kind of toughness goes back a generation as Grandmother Huster had a pretty bad injury with her hip and didn't care to ride in an ambulance but preferred to ride in a car and just be seen in Richard's office. She went home that day and did great! At least Richard and Pen saved on doctor fees because Richard was able to treat most injuries and Pen is also an RN.

Don't get me wrong, they took wonderful care of their children and parents! The stories are so funny to hear about and each sibling and even the parents have their full share of injuries to tell from skiing accidents, skateboarding, bee stings on the lips and hornets from the garage, getting hit with a golf club by grandchildren, broken arms, broken legs while having to raft down the Colorado River, fingers, toes, ankles, hips, necks, road rash, etc... Really the family is quite athletic and so the more you play, the more chances of accidents can occur. Ken is known in the family as the most daring! I was the safe and cautious one so these tales really intrigue me. Faith has inherited my cautiousness while Isaac has no fear and had staples in his scalp by age1.

So this leads me back to Bible study. As we went around the room people told of skateboard injuries, shark attacks, broken backs, cracked skulls, you name it, and someone had experienced it. Then it was my turn to share. I knew just the injury that had been the worst for me. As everyone got quiet and listened to my injury, I said proudly, "A broken tail bone during child birth." The group went wild!!! None of them had ever experienced child birth but knew it was painful and many had shared breaking a tail bone and how horrible it was. All the tough guys soon claimed me as the "Champion!" I felt quite good about my accomplishment. It is hard to impress surfers, rock climbers, sky divers, etc... I know the Huster family would be proud that one of their own won out on the worst injury and became the coolest of the group if only for a moment!

Who does your hair? M- Huster

2007-10-02T21:59:00.001-07:00

Wow! I just had my first multicultural experience. I don't know if it was because it involved a sweet Chinese gal or maybe it was just a California thing. Anyway, I went to get my hair cut yesterday because it had gotten so long and hot. I didn't have time to go closer to downtown because I had to pick up the kids from school in less than an hour. I drove by our local supermarket and in the complex there was a salon. Only one other person besides the stylist was there so I thought she could probably work me in pretty quick. Boy was it quick!

As I go up to the counter she asked, "What can do for you?" I no speak much English, shampoo? cut? style?" I said yes and we headed back for the sinks. The no speak English part should have clued me in but I decided to take the plunge. And plunge I went...she washed and conditioned my hair in less than 2 minutes. She flipped up my chair and whirled me around into the styling chair. She then asked, " Ever had razor cut?" I replied, "Yes, especially in the shower when I shave my legs." The next thing I know she whips out this handy dandy razor and begins to slash away at my hair. She kept saying, "Your hair too thick, it need be shorter and thinner, only take a minute." She was right! Hair was flying. I felt like Edward Scissor Hands was at work! Surprisingly when the "hair" settled, it looked really cute but way too short! As I took a deep breath and went to pay, she startled me by saying, "Come with me!" She led me to the back room and told me to lay down on the table. Then she started putting hot wax on my eyebrows! She said, "Eyebrows need waxing, to bushy, I make them sleek and clean." I never noticed that my eyebrows were bushy and now with that hot wax in her hand, I wasn't going to argue. She ripped off the tape which made me jump. She laughed, "Oh, that hurt?" I didn't have time to reply because her phone rang. Now all I could think about was that she was going to have to do the other side! She came back and did it again plus she broke out the tweezers and plucked a few strays that escaped the first attack. Finally she sat me up and gave me a mirror. She asked, "Do you like? All better now, makes eyes look brighter." Yeah brighter, my eyebrows were lit up like a firecracker with red marks.

At last it was all over and she said, "That be $20." I thought, Wow! I got all that and drama too for 20 bucks! I paid a lot more in SC for just a shampoo and cut. In all honesty, I do like my hair and eyebrows. The moral to this story is...when your in Southern California, ask your neighbor "Who does your hair?" and make sure you speak their language.

I never did get the gal's name but by the time she was finished with me, the salon was full of eager customers. I plan on going back, at this rate I will really save some cash because she cuts my hair so short I won't need to go nearly as much as in the past!

The Truth

2007-10-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

It is so easy to to get caught up in performance mode. Last Friday, I posted a blog as a proud father about Faith being "Student of The Week" at OB Elementary. That evening I laid in bed and became extremely convicted about the values I was teaching Faith. See, after I posted Friday's blog, I made sure that Faith saw it. I made a big deal about her award, no harm done? This was one of the first true achievements Faith had been awarded and I made a huge deal (positive reinforcement, right)? Any other parent would do the same? Problem though:What happens when she is not first or the best, how will she react? Reality is I want her self worth to be built on the unconditional love of her heavenly father not on performance. See Faith needs the Gospel in her achievement as much as anyone. Here is a stark truth about Faith - Last week my mother was visiting from Florida and Michelle caught Faith telling grandma Lees to "Get out of my room!" This was followed by a poster she made for her door proclaiming "NO Grandmas!"(you can imagine her tone of voice). That is my "student of the week" pretty stinking and selfish.

When I got home, I took Faith to her bedroom and sat on her bed and had a "talk". I talked with Faith on a heart level and wanted her to know that I was very disappointed and was going to take privileges. I finished our time together by telling her how much I loved her. I told her that my love is not based on whether she was first or last but on the fact that she was my little girl. Nothing could ever change the fact that she was my little girl and I would always love her.

When you are loved unconditionally, it frees you up not to be driven to be first but let others shine. Hopefully, this was a teachable moment for Faith, I know it was for me. Next, time I will make a big deal and blog about a character issue, like serving a classmate if it happens (I hope so).

P.S. Faith loves her Grandma Lees so much and felt very badly for what she had done. Thankfully, Grandma Lees loves her unconditionally too!

Student of The Week

2007-09-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a wonderful honor Faith received today at Ocean Beach Elementary - Student of the Week! Of course, we are very proud parents. Faith told me last week passionately, she loved school and wished she could go everyday.

Michelle has had a much better week and was downtown today with all the other harbor wives. My mother has been in town this past week helping hold down the fort. She picked up a bad sinus infection and has felt pretty bad for the past two days. Please pray for her as she flies home tomorrow.

I was able to surf a few times this week. Tuesday, I paddled out at break called The Cliffs, it was magical. The beauty of San Diego is such a gift!

We are now blowing up balloons and making posters to welcome Greg Langley who flies in tonight. Please be praying for Greg during this transition. He has two days to catch his breath then begins his new job. I think he works five out of the first seven days.

Earthquake...by M Huster

2007-09-25T21:57:00.001-07:00

Something we all know about California is that they have earthquakes. Ever since we moved here, I knew that this experience would take place. My first earthquake was not without a little drama.

September 10th was my best friend's birthday (Katrina) and she came out for a long weekend from South Carolina. Unfortunately, my health was not good at all and she had to help me just like old times. I was having really high blood pressure and a sustained high heart rate. This made me a little edgy and very uncomfortable. About 6am I woke up on Sunday and remembered that the planes were going to be taking off at 6:30 am; we live near the airport. I went into Katrina's room to close the window so the planes would not wake her. I was about to go into Faith's room to do the same when I got this really strange feeling. Things were just a little "too" quiet and the air seemed really thick. I then got nauseated and felt like something bad was getting ready to happen. Jim startled me and told me to get back in bed. About 30 seconds later, our bed began to shake! I sat up and said, "Did you feel it? Was that really an earthquake?" Jim agreed and the next morning we found out it was a 3.4. After the earthquake, I slept like a baby. Later that day, our friend Lois came over and I told her about my experience. She said I was better than a dog at predicting earthquakes!! Kinda spooky but if I could make some money predicting...well that would be cool. I don't think they are going to sign me on just yet at USCSD. Katrina slept through it and was really bummed that she missed out. She asked me what it was like. I told her, "Do you remember how it felt when your water broke before you went into labor?" That was what it was like. You know it is going to happen, it just takes you by surprise when it does!

PS: Thank you for all the prayers. My health is improving!

OB Prayer Walk

2007-09-18T23:08:00.000-07:00

“If you are generous with the hungry and start giving yourselves to the down-and-out,
your lives will begin to glow in the darkness, your shadowed lives will be bathed in sunlight. I will always show you where to go. I'll give you a full life in the emptiest of places— firm muscles, strong bones. You'll be like a well-watered garden, a gurgling spring that never runs dry.” Isaiah 58:9-11

On Thursday evening, a group of Ocean Beach and Point Loma locals who are actively involved in other Harbor congregations, met for a prayer walk down Newport Ave (OB’s main drag). It was so much fun to begin to a pray for our community. We prayed through the verse above from the prophet Isaiah. There are some great promises to hold on to.

As most of you know, Michelle’s health has been sketchy for a few weeks now. Her heart rate and blood pressure have been super high. Her doctor has her on some medication to lower her BP and heart rate and that has helped. She is a little frustrated that they are only treating the symptoms and not really getting to the root of the problem. However, her doctor does communicate well and is easy to get in touch when needed. It is hard to transition to a new Endocrinologist when they really don’t know your history. She is very grateful for all the support she has received from the other Harbor wives. They have given their time, support, and prayers. Her spirit remains strong and she just “rolls” with whatever comes. God has truly sustained her.

School Daze...by Michelle Huster

2007-09-07T21:33:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again! School has begun and so life starts a more structured routine for school age children and their parents. I just love the rows and rows of crayons, paper, notebooks, glue, and every other school supply you can think of at your local Target or Office supply store.

Last week, Faith and I had a "girls day out" of back to school shopping. Our main goal was a new backpack and a few pencils and paper. We went to three different stores and found everything we needed. Something else I found that afternoon was not school supplies but a hard look at myself and my heart. As we went to a new store, I could not help but notice all the street people hanging out in front begging for money or food. Some would be standing but mostly sitting with all their worldly possessions in a small grocery bag. By the time we had reached our third store, it seemed as if they were EVERYWHERE!!! I began to hold Faith's hand a little tighter and walk a little faster. Then fear set in and I became angry that these people were interrupting my day with my daughter. The Holy Spirit quickly convicted me of my arrogant, superior attitude and I became ashamed of my fear and the truth He had revealed about myself. I asked the Lord right there and then to forgive my attitude and to give me courage. Just then, a long bearded man approached us wanting "spare change." I told him no. When Faith and I entered the store, I pulled her aside and we talked about what had just happened. I shared with her that there are people in this world and right here in our neighborhood that don't have a place to call home. Most of the time it is not their fault and even if it is, God commands us to love all of our neighbors and our enemies, those with homes or not. I told her that I didn't give him money because that is not always the right answer. We talked about what we could do and decided to buy a bottle of water and Snickers bar. As we left the store, he had already moved on to another store front. We looked up and down the sidewalks hoping to find him. We promised to give the water and candy to anyone else that day who looked like they needed it.
Some of you may be thinking, what a great teaching moment but the truth is I was the one learning a new lesson. I have been praying for God to open my eyes to the down and out of our community. On that day He showed me!!! I had not noticed them before. It was no coincidence that the previous night I had been at a Bible Study entitled, "Sharing God's Heart for the Poor." This past week, I have started to discover God's heart for the poor through His Word. In Psalm 68:5, God is described as "A Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His Holy dwelling." It is only by His mercy that I am not standing out in front of a store holding a grocery bag of all my worldly possessions. As God's daughter, He has clearly laid out His desire and will for me to care for the poor. Not just by writing a check but really getting to know who they are and loving them! My prayer now is that He will show me specific ways to reach out to those in need without fear and with compassion that only Christ could give.

He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker but whoever is kind to the needy honors God. --- PROVERBS 14:31

I Leak the Gospel

2007-08-31T10:17:00.000-07:00

This morning, I was eating breakfast and was amazed watching Faith and Isaac. The way their little hands move (well, they aren’t so little anymore) and they slurp up cereal is pretty incredible. I still love watching them sleep.

After breakfast we headed to the couch for devotion time. Their sweet little spirits encouraged me. They have heart felt simple prayers. I have been so blessed to spend lots of time with my children this summer. I am extremely bias, but my kids are absolutely amazing.

Last week Michelle’s adrenal glands went into what doctors call “fatigue”. This basically meant that she was unable to get out of bed for four days in a row. Day one (last Thursday) was OK, I had to re-arrange a few things to stay home with the kidos but hey, I have great kids, no big deal. Then Friday came and Michelle was out of commission and Saturday too. By Saturday night I was just plain frustrated. Not that Michelle could do anything about being sick but just the situation. You would think after six years of practice with a sick wife, my attitude would be better, especially after such a long run of good health. Sunday morning worship was great and was refreshing to weary bones, but by Sunday afternoon my frustration began to play out as anger toward my children and Michelle. I finally caught myself and tried to figure out where all this anger was coming from? As I prayed, the Lord slowly began to show my idol. See Jesus was not enough in my life, I needed Jesus plus health (healthy family). I had not planned on going to church Sunday evening but I decided I need to hear the Gospel again. I went to Harbor Uptown and the Gospel was so sweetly proclaimed. When I came home I had to ask forgiveness to Michelle, Faith and Isaac. Man, the whole climate in our home changed. Grace and repentance are great medicine of idol makers. GLORY!

Faith starts first grade at Ocean Beach Elementary on Tuesday. Yesterday, we all went down and walked the halls and met two of the three first grade teachers. They were both great. Faith is excited and ready to get back to school OB Elementary is a beautiful 90 year old school. I have been doing prayer walks around OB and keep being drawn back to OB Elementary. It is in the center of town, on the corner of where the two main roads in OB cross. I would love to have Harbor Ocean Beach Church meet there. I have no idea if that is even an option. Please pray that the Lord would open that door for us.

The little things aren't so little

2007-08-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I began leading a small group of young singles this week. This is a group that has been meeting for years in various locations with several different leaders. Stephen Phalen who is now planting a new Harbor congregation in the City Heights community had been the most recent leader. He called me back in June and asked me if I would be willing to take over teaching this group. Most of the folks in this group live in Ocean Beach or Pacific Beach (just north of OB). Needless to say, I jumped all over this opportunity to connect with so many folks who live in this community.

So, Monday evening we had around twenty singles for our first time together. It was so amazing on many levels. First, this group has so many sharp young professionals that have a clear passion for Christ. They come from different theological backgrounds but their diversity makes for great exploration. Second, and what may seem little was huge for us, was the opportunity for Michelle and I to lead the group together. It has been over six years since my life and ministry partner and I have been able to minister officially side by side. Half way through our lesson while Michelle was sharing I became overwhelmed and quite emotional. I was flooded with all the memories of all the sick days Michelle suffered. It was so good to have her there sharing. In many ways she is more gifted than me and is a great ministry partner. Most of the singles did not give it a second thought about having this couple teaching their lesson on Monday night, but I am was so thankful for God’s graciousness and mercy to allow us this privilege of teaching together. It was a huge deal for us. Finally, it was so fun to see these singles wrestle with God’s word. We are beginning a series on Sonship for Singles. One young man named Andrew called me this morning to tell me that he has not been impacted by a bible study like this in a long time.

Final thought: Michelle’s health is great. I have not seen her this strong since she first got sick. She was a wild woman yesterday painting our dinning and living room. I thought for sure she would pay for it today, but as I type she is out grocery shopping. We live day by day but this is a very good trend. (Photo is the a typical scene of the surf line up from the OB pier).

Prayer and Fasting

2007-08-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

When should we pray and fast? Scripture tells us that these two spiritual disciplines should be practiced when seeking divine guidance, intervention, protection, and to break through spiritual strong holds. I am looking for prayer partners who will begin praying and fasting for the spiritual strong holds here in Ocean Beach. I found a great verse from Isaiah yesterday that has helped rekindled a passion for prayer and fasting, "Is it not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?" Isaiah 58:6

Our goal is not to manipulate God (See Acts 23:12,14) or to impress people but to be drawn deeper into the presence of our Abba Father. Fasting reveals the things that control us and actively demonstrates repentance, grief, humility, and wholeheartedness. These attributes are rare attributes for me. Please join me in the season of seeing God's kingdom advancing and captives being set free.

Update
First, Greg Langley also known to my kids as Uncle Greg, arrived on Saturday. Greg is selling his partnership in his pediatric practice and is moving out in six weeks to join our church planting team. He has been out getting all the details nailed down with his new position with San Diego's Children's Hospital . We are so excited to have Greg out here with us. Also, last week I was able to spend some time with a neighbor (Denesh), and discovered that he and his wife have been praying for our neighborhood. Denesh has been such an encouragement since our initial conversation. He invited me to a Bible study that meets on Thursday mornings. What an amazing group of men. What is so cool now is I see most of these men through out the week out surfing. I have been getting up around 5:30 and surfing for and hour or so. When I paddle out now, all these men greet me, I feel like Norm from Cheers.

Finally, Michelle still is plugging along, pushing herself. She has not felt very well for the past few days and needs to slow down.

Prayer Wall:
* Pray for Dustin, young single guy who is originally form Atlanta I've met surfing. He is a believer but has gone through a tough season recently. He quit smoking two weeks ago. Partner with me in prayer for strong holds to be broken and FREEDOM!
*For grace awaking for my neighbors Steve, Kelly, and Mugs

Small Town Feel

2007-08-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

Ocean Beach sits just minutes from downtown San Diego but has a small town feel. OB is a community of mom and pop businesses and unique locals. The bohemian locals have intentionally kept national chains from moving in. Businesses like Starbucks have tried for years but unfortunately they have set up shop. Protests continue. Michelle declared today, "I love OB." She spent forever in the local hardware store just looking around and admiring the old building that has been there for years. Also in OB, you can go by a business and they may have a sign on the door that says, "Open at 10am but might not be in until 12pm. If the surf is good, see ya tomorrow." It is the laid back feeling from everyone at the local auto shop to the post office.

Couple cool things to share. First, Faith was "Choiced into" Ocean Beach Elementary last week. The school she was zoned for was one that none of our neighbor's children attend. San Diego School District allows families to choose any school, as long as they can provide transportation and there is room. Faith was able to get one of four spots, so she is in. We were so excited. Next, we have the opportunity to have some folks over this week for dinner. Please pray for our time with this young couple.

Finally, we have a new babysitter. She is an RA @ Point Loma Nazarene University. I spelled out in the job description that she would be "adopted" into the Huster family. Faith and Isaac are excited and I have been very impressed with her maturity.

I passed my driver's license test!!! Now I have to go through all the hoops of getting my truck registered. If you have ever lived in CA, you know all the red tape this beautiful state requires! Michelle is next to go through the hurdles.

Lunch with Dick Kaufmann

2007-08-01T22:52:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I got a call around 10 am from Dick Kaufmann asking if I had lunch open. There where a few things going on but nothing I could not rearrange. We met at 12:30 at Dakota's. There was the brief normal pleasantries and within a few minutes "it" started again. I say again, because back in March, I had my first lunch with Dick. "It" being deep, spirit filled conversations that can impact a persons direction in life. It is not forces on contrived, "It" just flowed out of him so naturally. I love the way Dick looks at life.

The conversation began with where to begin my ministry. He shared stories of hospitality toward neighbors. Not hospitality to manipulate neighbors into Christian fellowship, but hospitality for ends in itself. He unpacked the idea of "open houses" he and his wife Liz have practiced for years. Interesting side note is how his children, who are now grown and have children, are missionaries in their neighborhoods. It was something they caught early on in life. There was so much more, I wish I recorded our lunch.

This is just one of the many reasons why I am so thankful and blessed to be on staff at Harbor. The men and women I work with just ooze the gospel in all that they do.

Finally Online

2007-07-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

It only took 12 days but we are now connected and wacky, world, web surfers! Man so much has been going on, where to start. First off, everyone is healthy. Katrina left a week ago and still is coughing, so we are almost all recovered from what we call the Texas crud. Shamrock TX was where we all woke up with runny noses and sore throats.

This week between unpacking boxes, assembling stuff and wrestling with Cox cable (internet provider), we played the role of tourist. Tuesday the family and the grandparents went to the San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Zoo is hard to describe. Think of a huge Disney World without rides but animials. We were told that you cannot do the entire zoo in one day and they were right. All told, we saw about 1/3 of the zoo. On Friday, Michelle's folks, the kids, and I went just three miles south to Point Loma National Park. It was a beautiful day to visit the point (well everyday is beautiful). Point Loma is basically a mountian ridge that goes out into the Pacific Ocean and creates a peninsual. San Diego has so much to do and the weather is sooo nice. We are in somewhat of of a heat wave, it was 77 today (normal is 74).

While we were at the Point, Michelle was downtown having lunch with all the Harbor Pastor's wives. She was so encouraged and really felt connected. Because Nanny got so sick, Michelle's folks had to cancel their plans for more travel and stayed an extra week. They flew out Saturday morning to spend a few days in Colorado. It was a hard, tearful goodbye, they were such a blessing to us.

Faith and Isaac have made so many friends here in the community. The pool has turned out to be a great place to get to know people and our kids are getting so tan and blonde! The kids play in the streets ( we live in an a private neighborhood), the adults join in and it seems to be such a great place for families. God put us right where we need to be.

Today, I preached at Xcross Roads Church in National City, it was so cool. The Lord helped me. There is nothing better that sharing God's Word and you sense He is using you in a special way. I'll be keeping my blog more current now that we have the internet.

We Are Slowly Getting Settled

2007-07-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

After a week of living in Ocean Beach, things are starting to feel like home. We can now pull Michelle's van into the garage, so the boxes are slowly disappearing. Michelle and my mother discovered a second hand furniture store, which has saved us hundreds of dollars. So, we have a dinning room table and furniture to sit on in our living room. Mix in a few pictures and Michelle has turned our new home into a nice warm place.

We we very sad to see my mother, and Katrina and Kahli leave on Saturday. Thankfully, Michelle's folks are going to spend this week with us before heading back to North Carolina. They had planned to travel north and do some sight seeing, but because of Shirley's health they decided to stay and rest. Shirley is doing better, just weak.

I am officially making my new office Point Loma Nazarene College Library (where I am typing this blog). It is only two miles from our home. It sits right on the the cliffs of Point Loma and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. I'll post a few pictures once we get out home Internet service set up. Hopefully, it will be Tuesday or Wednesday?

Michelle and I are slowly getting over our colds. We try to ouy cough each other at night, but the battles are slowly subsiding. And I have had two quick chances to surf. They were SWEET!

Our newest newsletter will be out in a day, so be on the lookout.

The Promise Land

2007-07-16T11:56:00.000-07:00

We made to Ocean Beach on Saturday around 1:00pm. Six or seven folks from Harbor welcomed us and had our truck unloaded in less than two hours. We were able to get the beds up and had a great night sleep, kind of. We are less than two miles from San Diego International Airport and in the direct path for takeoffs. Sunday morning we were awaken at 6:30 as five planes in a row took off. What a great alarm clock. Even though is was past midnight when we all made it to bed, Isaac and Faith were up with the first airplanes of the day.

Michelle is still snotty and coughing, but hanging in there. I have to keep telling her to "back away from the boxes". Shirley still is feeling bad, another trip to the doctor may be coming soon. I still have the crud in full force. Haven't even felt like going surfing, so you know I feel bad. May get my first surf tomorrow evening.

San Diego is beautiful. We have great neighbors with lots of children Faith and Isaac age. The community pool has been a great place to meet folks. Most of the people who live in our neighborhood are home owners and everyone knows everyone. So, we have been the newest attraction in town. I'll have more details and pictures on Friday when we get our Internet service at home. Right now I'm at a local library.

175 Miles To Go

2007-07-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today was our desert day. I am amazed how many people live in Phoenix and Yuma Arizona. They have to be some of the hottest places in the world to live. You drive for hundreds of miles in the barren wasteland, then you come to a Wal-mart, Lowe's, with homes all over the place. Can you imagine the conversation a few developers had a few years back. Probably went something like: I think I can get a ton of land of almost nothing. I think we can develop it and promote the hound out of it and it will sell. But it is in the desert, do you think people will really move into the desert?

Well, 50 % of the people who live in Phoenix today did not live there five years ago. They were geniuses! If you want to know what the desert feels like, turn your oven on three fifty and stick your head in.

Tomorrow we should roll into Ocean Beach around noon. Most likely we will not have access to the internet until Monday or Tuesday. So, if there is no blog tomorrow you will know why.

Michelle's health was OK today, still coughing. Shirley turned the corner on her cold and I still feel like crud. Everyone else is doing great. Faith, Isaac, Kahli, and Katrina swam outside for over an hour this evening. No need for a towel, you can be dry in just a few minutes.

Interesting Fact: Katrina went to clean off the windshields of the van today while stopping for gas. The water evaporated before she could squeagy it off.

Also, i will continue to blog our comings and goings as we enter the new world of Church Planting. Thanks for your prayers.

Bonus Blog - The Jorney

2007-07-12T20:49:00.000-07:00

As we have travel across America we have run into several of the same families. It has been fun to hear their stories.

Couple things that give cross country travelers away:
First: When they stop, everyone in the vehicle makes a B-line to the nearest bathroom.
Second: Every time a car door is opened, a Happy Meal toy falls out.
Thirdly: By the third day everyone is wearing ratty old shorts, T-shirts, and flip flops (comfort over fashion).

As our trip comes to and end, we would like to get an idea of who has been reading our daily blog. Please post a quick comment and let us know who is out there.

Off to Yuma Arizona tomorrow. High 117 Low 93

The Grand Canyon

2007-07-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

Can your guess where we were today by our picture? Today was funny. We left at 9:00 from Williams on the Grand Canyon Railroad. The whole way we pumped up how big the Grand Canyon was going to be to Faith and Isaac. Once we walked up to the edge, they both were like, "What else do we do? "

The weather was perfect. A cold front came through the day before and cleared out all the haze. Cold front sounds more dramatic than reality. Instead of 100 + it was 90. In the shade it was not bad at all.

Michelle did not go with us today. She stayed back to rest. Her sinus infection is a little better. Mine is now in full blown mode. I feel like Charlie Brown head and have started coughing fits. Haven't had a cold like this one in a few years. I felt crummy but still enjoyed the day with the family. Shirley and Allen moved slow today walking around at 8,000 feet but could not find enough adjectives to describe what they saw. Katrina found a man today. Not sure if it will last since his occupation is a train robber (I'll post that photo in a bonus blog). Kahli is well and does a great job entertaining Faith and Isaac with her Ipod.

We travel to Yuma AZ in the morning. Pray for good health and safety.

I Need the Gospel

2007-07-11T19:57:00.000-07:00

Today was a hard but good day. I woke up this morning with my nose stopped up and my tongue stuck to the roof of my mouth. I'll blame it on the cold but i was grumpy this morning. Told Michelle that I needed to ride alone to start off this morning. I listened to a sermon on a MP3 player and soaked up the Gospel from 2 Cor. Today was our most diverse. We had rugged canyons, high plains, and mountains. Katrina ran over a retread tire and it wrapped around the bottom of our van. At one point the tire stretched out to about eight feet. Looked like a long tail. Allen called me on my cell to tell me that Katrina and Michelle (Thelma and Louise) were dragging a dead animal.

Shirley completely lost her voice and had a sore throat all day. Once we got into Williams she went to an urgent care center. Katrina is now driving back to Flagstaff to get medicine at Walgreens. Michelle sounds pretty froggy too. That makes 5 out of 8 healthy people in our crew.

Good news, tomorrow is our day off at the Grand Canyon. We are taking the Grand Canyon Railroad which leaves just a few hundred yards from our hotel. Isaac is so excited, he may not sleep tonight. Faith is afraid that she may fall in!

Kahli is two for two: Cracker Barrel for lunch and Mexican for Dinner:)

The picture is of Allen, Michelle, and Shirley in the high plains of New Mexico.

New Mexico

2007-07-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Day 4 (Shamrock TX to Albuquerque NM)

The day began with a bike ride on the wide open plains heading down Route 66. I was into my third mile when the sun finally broke through, amazing! I dreamed about riding in the wide open in my mind for weeks. It exceeded any expectation. Felt like I was Forest Gump. Great way to start the day before 350 miles in a bumpy truck ride.

Isaac was my side kick this afternoon. He got in the truck talking and he did not come up for air for two hours. We made up silly stories and laughed a lot.

Isaac came down with a runny nose on Sunday, me on Monday, Michelle and Shirley today. Michelle and Shirley were feeling bad and both stayed in while we ate some Mexican food. It was much spicier than anything back in the south. Kahli was thrilled to finally have "real" food!

Interesting to ride in a thunderstorm with pouring rain and the road staying mostly dry. The rain evaporated as soon as it landed. Also saw the temperature go from the upper 90's to the upper 60's in just a few minutes. Michelle and Katrina took endless photos. Papa Allen said, "The mountains looked green from far away but when you got to them they were just rocks with stumble." Nanny (Shirley) although congested still had enough spunk and energy for us all. Faith was all smiles and so thankful that the pool at this hotel was working!

Off to Williams Arizona

Things are BIGGER and Hotter in Texas

2007-07-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

First off, I want to apologize for not blogging yesterday. We did not run off the road, all is well. We traveled almost 500 miles yesterday and were worn out when we got to Fort Smith Ark. After a quick dinner and dip in the pool we all turned into pumpkins.

Today we traveled 379 miles mostly in Oklahoma and are spending the night in Shamrock TX. Oklahoma is not a flat state. I was surprised to see how many rolling hills there were. They were beautiful and I got to see a lot of them as I crawled up them at 45 miles an hour.

Just got back from DQ for dinner and it is 96 degrees at 8:15pm. Michelle stayed back at the room to rest. She had a good day but was worn out and needed some down time. Isaac had tummy problems yesterday and is back to his spunky self today. He road shotgun for a good part of the day. He loves trying to get other truckers to honk their horns. Allen and Shirley (Michelle's Folks) are like children at Disney World. They are enjoying the diverse scenery we get to see each day. Katrina and Kahli are doing well too. Kahli has some difficulty with food issues (she has diabetes and Celiac disease), the restaurants we have chosen have been out of things that she could eat. Cracker Barrel is her favorite and everyone else too! She has kept a great spirit through it all. Katrina has been the main driver of the family mobile and Michelle her co-captain. Kahli is a great "flight" attendant. Papa Allen has enjoyed the great view from the moving truck and Nannie has been jammin' in the F150 to America's greatest country music!

Tomorrow we will travel about 130 miles in Texas then into New Mexico totaling 372 miles for the day.

Picture is of Oklohoma:

Nashville

2007-07-08T05:50:00.000-07:00

We made it to Nashville around 5:00 pm yesterday. There were no no major issues, just tired from being up into the early hours the night before. We stayed at my sister Tasha's home. She has two small children that has great toys. Isaac and Faith have been loving life. Most of their toys have been packed up for the past month and half. Today (Sunday) is going to be our longest day of travel. After today we will be 1/3 of the way there!

Michelle's health is a 5.5 (1-10 scale) this morning. This is promising because mornings are by far her most difficult time. She started some new medicine yesterday and it is already making a difference. Thanks for your prayers!

A Good Life Live

2007-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I got a message from my father early this morning that his mother, my grandmother passed away. Vita Huster died at the age of 99. I am not sure when the funeral will be, but most likely it will be sometime during our move to San Diego. This blog is in some way a part of my healing as a walk in the pain of losing someone so special.

My grandfather and grandmother Huster played a significant roll in my life. They only lived two miles from where I grew up. Living with my single mother and two sisters, I spent many days after school and summer days with them. The memory I will hang on most to is my grandmother reading her Bible and "Daily Bread" to me and my grandfather at breakfast. She modeled the great habit any person anyone could ever develop. I love you grandmother, give granddad a big hug for me!

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Packing Day - Michelle's health is 4.5 on a 10 point scale. Up a notch today.

We Will Not Be Homeless

2007-07-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

This blog will be updated daily while we are on our trip across America. The trip officially begins Saturday morning around 8:30 am.

Here is a picture of our town home we will be leasing in Ocean Beach. It is a 3 bedroom 2. bath. Michelle and Katrina did a great job. It is in the heart of OB, just a mile from the beach. There are around 200 units in this self contained neighborhood, most of young families.

Today has been an unusually hard day so far. I awoke to the news that the 15 year old boy Austin, from Lexington SC, body was found yesterday. Austin drowned Sunday while on a mission trip with his youth group in Mexico. I found myself significantly affected my the news. This was one of my nightmares I had as a youth pastor. My heart grieves for the family and their church.

"Blessed are those who morn for they will be comforted"

Enjoy your family today and of course - FIREWORKS!