An NFL Class Act Retires

One of the classiest men in football announced his retirement yesterday at a press conference. Tony Dungy, 53, the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts for the past 7 years, is calling it quits. After taking his teams to the playoffs in 10 consecutive season, Dungy's Colts lost in the first round two weekends ago.

I took interest in this story yesterday afternoon as I was listening to sports radio guys predict that Dungy would return A) because he didn't want to end his career with a disappointing playoff loss, and B) because he has a legendary quarterback with many good years left and Super Bowl opportunities in Peyton Manning. I think what they probably did not factor into the equation is that Tony Dungy's priorities are God, family, and football - in that order. Whereas other men might have stuck around longer for records, trophies, and riches, Tony Dungy realizes that true riches are stored up in heaven.

Dungy plans to spend more time with his family and do some volunteer work. He has been involved with prison ministries for years, and says he has a heart to reach out to young men in his community. "Where my heart is, is really with our young men right now," Dungy said. "We have so many guys that didn't grow up like me, didn't have their dad there and that's something I'm very, very interested in."

Congratulations to Tony Dungy on your retirement and blessings as you move forward!

Some of the comments and information for this post was taken off espn.com's website. You can read their full story here.

I challenge you to read the entire Bible in 2009 - It's doable!

If you are reading this and have never read the Bible, or have not read most of it, I challenge you an encourage you this year to read the whole thing. It seems like a daunting task, but it's really not that tough. In about three and a half chapters a day, you can have read through the entire Bible by Jan. 1 2010. Keep in mind, Bible chapters are only about 1-3 pages long, so we're talking anywhere from 15 minutes to 45 minutes a day (45 min is even a bit of a stretch, but I myself am a slow reader). There are many good reading plans out there to help you, or you can make up your own plan. Here's a link to help you get started:
http://www.backtothebible.org/index.php/Bible-Reading-Guides.html

I set my mind to read the Bible through in the fall semester of 2003, and it absolutely changed my life; I encountered the Living God! And you can too, for "all who seek, find."

A few more reasons you should take up the challenge to read the Bible in 2009:

The Bible is the best selling book of all time, and the most printed book of all time.

"The word of God is living and active..."

"Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."

If you don't have a Bible, there are many available online, at libraries, at churches, or just ask and I'll send you one.

I am passionate about both believers and non-believers reading the word of God - Taste and see! You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free!

Blessings to you in 2009 my friend.