I'm sorry...not that I did it, but that I got caught.

So it's come to light that Reggie Bush received hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of gifts while playing for the Univeristy of Southern California. I suppose this sort of thing happens pretty often even though it's strictly prohibited. What gets me is NOT the fact that it is going on. I'm sure plenty of amateur athletes receive gifts and bribes under the table. What gets me is the way that Pete Carroll (the coach) and RB respond.

"I'm absolutely shocked and disappointed in the findings of the NCAA. I never thought it would come to this." Pete Carroll

"I have a great love for the University of Southern California, and I very much regret the turn that this matter has taken, not only for USC, but for the fans and players." Reggie Bush

I wonder what Pete's disappointed about. I'm thinking he's disappointed that this all came out. What turn did this matter take that Bush regrets? The fact that he got caught?

This got ME thinking about what WE think when we choose to do something we know is wrong. How do we justify it in our mind? Do we make excuses? Do we think about getting caught? Do we think about the cost? Does anyone plan on getting caught? Does anyone ever really "get away" with anything?

Is this what He intended?

I've been thinking hard lately about how biblical my life is.

What if you asked "church goers" if they live a biblical life. Ask em..."Does your life match up with what the bible says?" I think that the vast majority would say yes. I'm thinking they should say no. Me included.

The question that's been bouncing around in my mind is "Where am I missing it?" What part of my life would make Jesus sick to his stomach? What part of scripture am I ignoring? What non biblical behavior am I justifying? Is this what He intended when he chose me before the foundation of the world?? holy? blameless?

Am I living the safest life I could possibly live?
Am I seeking this middle road?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7MdYV8gRws&feature=related

Am I alone in this? Can anyone relate to what I'm feeling?

Friends, please be bold and show me where I'm missing it.

What do I have to do?

I've been thinking and talking with some close friends about salvation and how it goes down. I've been reading through the book of Luke with the boys at bedtime and what Jesus says to people about how to get right with God. For instance...

In Luke 5:20, these guys bring their friend to be healed (he was lame) and Jesus heals him AND forgives his sins.

Luke 8:47 says that this "sinner" woman kisses and washes his feet with her hair. Jesus says her sins are forgiven.

3 words...Rich Young Ruler

If this rich young ruler came to you and said, "What must I do to be saved?" What would you tell this guy? Pray a prayer? What does Jesus say???? Give away all your STUFF!! What? That's not the Romans Road.

What about Zacchaeus? Dude gave half of what he had to the poor and paid back all the people he cheated 4 times! What did Jesus say? Salvation has come to this house!!

Check out Luke 10:25-28 Jesus says to inherit eternal life is to love God with all and love your neighbor like you love yourself.

A lot of times we present salvation as a simple agreement with God.

What else did Jesus say?