The Story of Casa Bonita- from South Park to Casa Bonita Mi Amor!

If you live in Denver, Casa Bonita is an institution! Known for cliff divers, a gorilla, sopapillas and inedible food, it was a must-see tourist attraction. Once it was put on South Park, it became world famous. In 2021, South Park's creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker purchased the fading gem of Denver kitsch and made it famous again. Rumor has it the food is now good but reservations impossible to get. The new Casa Bonita Mi Amor! tells the tale of the transformation. Trust me, it will be worth watching!

Epcot's Communicore- Explore, Discover, and Relax

If you've read this blog for any measure of time, you are well aware of my love for the original EPCOT Center. The park was a masterpiece of design as much as Epic Universe will be for this generation of theme park fans. At the center of Future World is the iconic Spaceship Earth. On the sides of this massive structure was Communicore, duo crescents that offered an enticing display of interactive hands on attractions that complemented the main pavilions. This little piece of concept reveals inviting, wide open spaces. It was a great place to relax and explore until you were ready to go on the park's original, great attractions such as Journey into Imagination, World of Motion, and Universe of Energy. A park of optimism, fun, and ambition. Boy, I miss those days!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

God is Still Good

After going to a memorial service today for the 20 year old son of our friends, hearing of the death of one of our other friends' grandsons yesterday at just one year old, and going to the services for a 90 plus year old woman who passed after a long illness, it's been a hard two weeks. But this I will say- God is still good. Yes, He is good.  Still. Regardless of circumstances. My Bible tells me that, and it is true. And we've all been through seasons of deep loss and searing pain. And yet He is good. Jesus always remains loving and caring- even if we do now understand what God allows. Always.

Sean "Diddy" Combs Deserves to Die

It's just staggering. Drugging and raping victims, throwing "freak off" sex parties, grooming famous young men and those who want to be for sexual favors, trafficking, and possibly even murder. These are the kinds of crimes linked to musician Sean "Diddy" Combs. The list of celebrities who will be exposed for participating in these sex parties will shock the nation. So will Diddy's victims of grooming. Yet, justice should be served.

Unfortunately, Diddy is just among a very long list of Hollywood and business types that have been exposed for their offenses. Harvey Weinstein, actor Kevin Spacey, film producer Bryan Singer, beloved singer Michael Jackson, financier Jeffrey Epstein, and many others, have all had to face the music one way or another. 

When exposed for the bad decisions we make- in this case repeatedly- we get desperate. When crimes are punished, it would be natural to consider a quick death by suicide. Certainly, all their victims have probably considered it as well, making healing hard if nor next to impossible. Or forgiveness, for that matter.

Rape ruins people, destroying lives, and impacting families for generations. (Yes, mine too.) The percentage of women experiencing sexual assault or rape is surprisingly high- and the numbers of male victims are increasing as well. Evil, yes, but it's also the human condition. It's not excusable. God certainly doesn't excuse it as it breaks His heart to see a people He created so engulfed with selfishness and utter depravity. He will judge our sin, and we all have fallen short in various ways. 

It's easy to point fingers. 

Because God's laws are designed to protect our lives and lead us on a path full of goodness and mercy, we suffer when we walk a different direction. Pain is the end result when we walk our own way. If you're like me, it's a lesson we learn over and over again. 

Honestly, in the eyes of a loving and holy and pure God, we deserve nothing less than death and punishment. Yet- and I so thank God for this- because He loves us so, He sent Jesus to earth to die for the sins of all men and pay the price in full that a holy God requires. We can choose to believe in Jesus' own words - "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me" and find the wholeness, healing, new constantly look for. If we believe that he died and rose again, it is ours. It's a very gracious offer. One paid for at a very high price. Or we can continue on in our search for fulfillment and pleasure and power in disobedience to God.

Yes, Sean "Diddy" Combs deserves to die. So do we. Thank God, we can all have a fresh beginning and full forgiveness by turning our our lives to Jesus and walking another direction. What will Harvey do now? Hard to say. But I have to focus on my own choices. So do you.

A Kind and Considerate Man

He's definitely not the biggest Disney theme park fan in the family, but I'll forgive him for that! My eldest son is kind, funny as can be, and surprisingly sentimental. Here he is wearing a Kodak sweatshirt to honor his grandparents who have now both passed on to be with the Lord. (And of course, his lovely wife is in this photo too.) If you know my son, you know how blessed you are to have him in your life. 

Disney's Real Plan for an Australian Magic Kingdom and More

Why is Australia not in EPCOT Center's World Showcase? The real answer may surprise you, as it once was on the map and in the model! Would you believe a Disney entertainment complex in Sydney could be the real reason it was never added? Well, read on! As you can tell, from looking at he model above, the Sydney Opera House would have made a great waterside landmark. But it never came to be, nor did that contemporary looking building that was a version of the American Adventure. Or even the new proposed structure for Imagineer Zach Riddley's Epcot redo. Cancelled as well. (If you look closer, by the way, there's a few other pavilions in the model, including one that eventually was built but in an entirely different location.)

Nice Opera House!

Brazil was coming- and you can see the original model here. Another cancellation for the "improved" Epcot of 2022/3/4.  EPCOT Center was my favorite Disney Florida park. But I'm getting less enamored by it as the suits continue to turn it into another version of the Magic Kingdom.  

Now, what about Disney's abandoned plans for a themed entertainment complex down under? They were very real!

Plans for Disneyland Australia resurface in a new documentary that makes quite a compelling case for the idea that the Walt Disney Company really was looking at locations down under. Was it a new Magic Kingdom, something along the lines of Disney Springs, or a combination of both? Let's look at some art, a video, and a copy of a proposal.

This piece of concept art shows a Magic Kingdom on the bay next to a Pleasure Island type area. It's been around for awhile. First shown here, on the Disney and More site I believe. 

Here's the video showing Disney was in fact looking for something in Sydney Harbor. (I found this on the WDWMagic discussion boards.) It's 15 fascinating minutes! I'm convinced the proposal was real.

The fun concludes with a shot of the proposal. Look at what was planned. Hmm... Sounds as if it was legit.

It's not the first time the Company planned to take advantage of America's fascination with Australia. May not be the last either. But with this current leadership team, your guess is as good as mine! 

(Art and model copyright The Walt Disney Company. Video from ReviewTyme.)

Disneyland's Other Space Mountain Attraction Poster

A fitting way to end this week- a Space Mountain attraction poster for D23 highlighting the iconic experience at Disneyland. The classic Tomorrowland attractions is a rite of passage of millions of California kids. Certainly not the tallest or fastest or even best, but this Disney coaster provides a wonderful flight through outer space. I only wish the one in Florida's Magic Kingdom was as smooth! But then, we in California have the Matterhorn Bobsleds, and it is far rougher than that!

Search the site for "attraction posters" and you'll find one of the largest collection of them on the internet.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

A New Beginning

Today marks a new beginning for us. The next season of life. It's at once a huge blessing and also something of a loss as we leave our old life behind. A truly wonderful life filled with weddings, neighborhood patio parties, birthday celebrations, Bible studies, and sledding days. Each bringing thankfulness to our minds and hearts, lifting our spirits.

It's an odd mix of joy, anticipation, and a bit of melancholy and even sadness for me. This was my home for 35 years. The longest I've lived anywhere in a young life of 21 locations in my first 18 years. Stability was found here in an earthly sense. And for our children who grew up there. We thank God for allowing us to stay in one place all these years. 

What lies ahead? Who knows? But we do know God is faithful, and in that, we are grateful.

 

The Latest Addition to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

Oh those clever Disney Imagineers! The latest addition to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is sure to get a steady supply of guests taking advantage of the newest attraction. With the blessing of size, the one at Disney's Hollywood Studios will get the bigger expansion instead of the space cramped Disneyland. With twice the capacity, lines should move more quickly. It's a brilliant addition! Rise of the Resistance was just the beginning!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Fear or Celebration?

If you are like most of the U.S.A. today, you are thinking about the Presidential Election. Pro-Harris or Pro-Trump? There's no worry or no time for celebration. The Bible's book of Daniel says in Chapter 2:21-  “He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding…” We have nothing to fear and only reason to celebrate because Our God is in control!

Top 10 Quincy Jones- The Musical Genius' Top Ten, My Favorite Cuts

The legendary musician and producer Quincy Jones is gone. I'd been compiling a Top Ten list of my favorite pop /rock /jazz records he'd produced, knowing this day was coming. It did yesterday. The musical world will not be the same. Everyone is in mourning. There's not much written about any faith or spiritual involvement, but I pray Quincy knew Jesus.

I'll eventually detail each one more and more, but for now, here are my favorite cuts from various artists during different stages of his career:

One Hundred Ways- James Ingram. This ultra romantic tune is one of our favorites! I remember hearing it on our honeymoon at the beautiful restaurant The Sun And in the Bahamas. We were celebrating our one week anniversary. The was 42 years ago. The restaurant is now long gone, but the record (and the marriage) live on. God is good!

Don't Stop Til You Get Enough- Michael Jackson. My favorite MJ song from my favorite Michael album, Off the Wall. Years later, I'd come to know that the title song and Rock With You were offered to Karen Carpenter. The Rod Temperton penned tunes became mega hits for the former Jackson5 lead singer. The first of many, many more to come... including hits he did for Disneyland's iconic Captain Eo attraction. We are Here to Change the World- and he did.

Mystery of Love- Donna Summer.  An incredibly compelling cut, perhaps one of the most unexpected on the whole album. The Donna Summer album is a great one and its story is fascinating. (I've detailed it in a deep dive article here.) This almost duet with James Ingram is pure pop perfection from start to finish, and I find it on perpetual repeat every time I play it. Oh, the mystery of love indeed!

Do Nothin' Til You Hear From Me- Phil Collins. Who knew Phil has this in him? The jazzy standard takes on a whole new feel for Mr. Collins, who rocks it like he was born to sing in this era. I so wish Phil had done an entire collection of songs like this with Quincy. Do not miss this one! It's a joy from start to finish.

Thriller- Michael Jackson. Epic release. Seemingly millions upon millions of writers have composed scores of print on this one. We all know how great the album is and why. Let's leave it at that.

The Woman in Me- Donna Summer. A song so good that the Wilson sisters of Heart had to do their own rock cover years later. Richard Carpenter's songwriting partner John Bettis crafted lyrics so strong that you'd swear they were written by a woman. But of course he could do that- he'd been penning lyrics for Karen Carpenter for years, making it sound as if she'd written them herself- songs seeming quite autobiographical. Donna's hit is vulnerable, intimate, and disarming. This one is also from the Quincy produced Donna Summer album.

Give Me the Night- George Benson. Next two cuts on the list are from Q's work with my "favorite vocalist who also can rock the guitar". The one and only George Benson. The who album is Nate night radio at its best. More Rod Temperton penned hits produced elegantly and combined with George's unique take created a career propelling smash. 

Turn Out the Lamplight- George Benson. One of the sultriest records George has ever made. This is Teddy Pendergrass territory- and George shows he pulls it off quite well. Another Rod Tempterton tune.

Just Once- James Ingram. Perhaps the solo record that made James a household name. This record has it all: great vocals, a memorable lyric line and music that transcends genres. A brilliant recording.

Is It Love That We're Missing- Gloria Estefan. You can place Gloria in about any setting and she would shine. This one song is no exception, only making me wish that Mr. Jones would have produced an entire album by the beloved Cuban superstar.

A Better Epic Universe

On the eve of the U.S. Presidential election, what could be more fitting than taking our minds off two awful choices and instead indulging at a look at the newest theme park coming our way? Epic Universe will delight fans and frustrate Disney executives. 

With blockbuster attractions like Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, this park will offer world class thrills and fun right from the beginning. Unlike the misfiring of the Epcot transformation, the park is a winner! Beautifully designed and ambitious, the theme park industry will be talking about its success for years to come. Fans will line the gates. 

Disney loses yet another day to Universal and for good reason...

(Art copyright Universal Creative.)

Retro Music Day

Time to start a new month. Given this time holds the U.S. Presidential election and Thanksgiving- both serious in nature to say the least- I thought it might be fun to begin with a little retro inspired late 1970s / early 1980s music.

Michael Jackson may have ruled the airwaves with Thriller and Off The Wall, but he and his brothers could also bring the beat. Destiny includes the toe tapping smash Shake Your Body Down to the Ground. It's a catchy tune that is now once again stuck in my mind.

The Bee Gee's baby brother Andy Gibb rocked with my favorite tune of the year: I Just Want to Be Your Everything. Upon first listen, I was hooked. His duet years later with the beautiful Olivia Newton-John on I Can't Help It remains a favorite, perfect for late night listening.

Who doesn't love September by Earth, Wind & Fire? Its lasting power is evident by the inclusion of the song on Walt Disney World's epic coaster Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Epcot never sounded so cool!

So, here's just a start to a rocking November!

A New Look at The Haunted Mansion

Often times, doing a deep dive into my Disney files will yield buried treasure. Such is the case today with this piece of rare concept art filed years ago, here depicting the Haunted Mansion as it would have appeared at the end of Main Street U.S.A. Yes, you heard that correct try- Main Street U.S.A.

It was the early 1960's and the great early Imagineer Ken Anderson crafted this piece at the request of Walt Disney himself. It's quite a piece of art!

There's a detail not so easily seen in this size, but if you click on it for the largest version, you'll find two young boys eyeing the decrepit old house with a strange mix of fear and intrigue. Just the right mix of emotions, I'd say. And I've seen those faces on kids today, decades later.

As with so few iconic Disney attractions, the Haunted Mansion is/was a perfect candidate to be placed in different locations in each castle park. And thankfully, it was! Of course, in Disneyland, its home is New Orleans Square and in the Magic Kingdom in Florida, it's found in Liberty Square. Disneyland Paris places the much darker Phantom Manor in Frontierland, but in Tokyo, the mansion is found in- surprise- Fantasyland. We should also add Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland, although it truly is a unique attraction. all its own. Should another Magic Kingdom ever be built with a Main Street U.S.A., I'd vote for the suits to resurrect this original idea and bring the project full circle.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

The Love of My Life

 

After so many years together, you'd think I'd take it for granted that I'm married to one of the world's great women. After all, she's smart, beautiful, kind, and full of God's love toward me and others. So, here's to you. Make God keep blessing you year after year. Much love- always.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Release the Superheroes!

Any fans of super hero movies? I know the Marvel Universe stories have been. a mixed bag, but there's hope for a new round of heroes to take on those always present bad guys. Then, there's a real life super man, Christopher Reeves, who turned tragedy into inspiration.

As for me, when it comes to comic book fantasy, I’m a big Captain America fan! He was a hero before he was a superhero! His heart’s desire: do the right thing and serve people by serving a cause bigger than himself! Who is a fan of Star Wars? Star Trek? Indiana Jones? Sherlock Holmes? Maybe you have a hero in the sports world or business world?”  Any American Ninja Warrior fans?

Why do we love these heroes?  They are always overcoming an obstacle of some sort! We love the Marvel universe, DC Comics, Star Wars and Star Trek movies, and athletic competitions because they are exciting and fun- and the good guy eventually wins!

We live vicariously through characters/people that make a difference and move in power. Powerful stories capture our attention. We get a rush watching the good guy win! It’s only a temporary fix, because life goes back to normal. But we can get addicted to this! There lies the danger!

"On the tombstone of America, the inscription will read: they entertained themselves to death." - Leonard Ravenhill    

Let that sink in. This quote above, by the renowned English pastor, applies not only to America as a nation but us as individuals. Christians are susceptible, but according to the Bible, those who don’t know Jesus are imprisoned!

The risk is we can get our adrenalin fix this way- and ignore the truth: 

In real life, we are in a battle for our souls! One with eternal consequences. And Jesus is returning soon! (War in the Middle East, Microchipping humans? Natural disaster after natural disaster? The earth growns. Not a good thing- and right out of Revelation 13 and 14 and 20.)

With its marvelous fantasies, the world tries to copy what God has already designed. But why accept the counterfeit? The best imitations of God’s reality fall short when compared to the real thing! You’d be right if you expect me to say this:      

Jesus is the ultimate superhero! Only he could accomplish what he did! Conquering death (the last enemy) and paying the price for our sin.

But did you know we are also called to be superheroes???? We have an enemy to fight and captives to free!

Ephesians 2:1-10:    "As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 all of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 but because of his great love for us, god, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 and god raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.8 for it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of god— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 for we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

God has designed us to be drawn to something greater than ourselves (eternity in mind). God has designed us for adventure because he has designed us for his work. We live in a world that promises freedom but delivers bondage- Isn’t that the great lie?

Setting the captives free is true superhero work!

People are held captives of the enemy. They are not the enemy! See 2 Timothy 2:25-26. Here, Paul is writing this towards the end of his life to Pastor Timothy in Ephesus (Modern Turkey).  About 67AD – just before he was beheaded for his faith in Jesus. Important words here from someone at the end of their life!

"25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that god will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.”

What’s our lesson here? Whether they are false teachers or non-believers, we must learn to see people as God does! 

Mistakenly, we can view them as the enemy instead of captives of the enemy!A very big difference! We shouldn’t treat captives like enemies! When we do this- the enemy wins- and people Jesus loved and died for are on the road to an eternity without him! 

Are we ready to risk reaching out, building relationships and loving them so we earn the right to speak the truth into their lives? We need love, discernment and wisdom.

Where would you be if someone in the church treated you as the enemy?

Even as believers- we can be in bondage to the ways of the world! Isn't it funny how we can play around with sin, justify it, get as close as we can to it- and before we know it, it has power over us. But we can also be caught thinking like the world. It's very subtle.
  
Colossians 2:8:    
“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.”

Note: Christians are at risk too- Paul is speaking to the church here!

Fear- that’s not of God!  Racism- that’s not of God either!  Hatred- do I even need to go there? The devil and his demons are at work here too. Not just in 3rd world countries! Anywhere sin is prevalent, the enemy is given an opportunity and moves in power. 

Humanism?  Materialism?  Nationalism? Idolatry? Are these of the kingdom of God? These are demonic strongholds in our world and in the church! Let me ask you- Isn’t the enemy just as successful when he is subtle as when he is obvious?!!!!

The main obstacle for us who are Jesus followers is accepting our mission! 

What is our mission?
I think we can all agree: According to the Apostle Paul, we've been given The ministry of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:14-19)   

"14 for Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 and he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. 16 so from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here! 18 all this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.”

We are compelled by Christ’s love to share the message everywhere we go.

The biggest obstacle is from within us:   Choosing who we will serve
• What do I want? What I’ve been told / trained / wanted to do?
• What will my family think? What will my friends think?

In our culture, we’ve made a big mistake:
We’ve made our hobbies extreme and our faith sedate!

The believer’s mission issue has always stayed the same: Love your neighbor, proclaim the gospel and go out into the world! Go where he leads you!  Now as then, submission and obedience to the Lord is the issue. Will I fail?  Is it safe?  Since when are these issues that stop us?  

Dietrich Bonheoffer, the famous- German pastor: “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” He lived his words. He was tried and hung during World War 2 by the Nazis! 

Romans 12:1-2       
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of god’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to god—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."  

In context of the previous chapters, Romans 12 is not about sexual purity- although that is crucial- it’s about sacrificial living for the sake of the kingdom. It’s followed by discussion on spiritual gifts and then persecution and overcoming evil with good.   Do we think like the world by living by our cultural traditions and common sense? Instead let’s live by the commandments given in the word and the leading of his Holy Spirit! Let’s not just read about our Christian heroes, let’s imitate them!

Sure, we can all fall flat on our faces! Every superhero has a weakness or area where they are susceptible:

SUPERMAN –  KRYPTONITE
IRONMAN-    HIS EGO AND HUMAN AMBITION
HULK-   HIS UNCONTROLLABLE ANGER
CAPTAIN AMERICA- HIS PATRIOTISM? (ETHNOCENTRICITY?)
BATMAN –   DEFINED BY HIS PAST
DAREDEVIL –   BLIND
GREEN LANTERN – THE COLOR YELLOW (OR IS IT JUST A BAD MOVIE?)  ;)

What’s your Kryptonite? Focus on God and not your weakness! 

"The first thing a pastor or any leader needs to do is to start living a life that terrifies him."
              Erwin McManus, pastor and author

But I would change it to: "The first ANY BELIEVER needs to do is to start living a life that terrifies him."

Be encouraged- Jesus promises abundant life in the midst of this!
Like any superhero, once you choose to accept the mission, the challenges come! Afraid of the challenge? That’s ok- you should be! - but don’t let it stop you- you go out equipped!

Here’s some encouragement- We go out in his power!
Jesus is the only superhero who gives his power to those who follow him.

God gives us his great power for his purposes. It is written in Ephesians 1:15- 22 15:  

"For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the lord Jesus and your love for all god’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the god of our lord Jesus Christ, the glorious father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come." 

What is power given for if it’s not to be used? Paul says as we wait for Jesus to return, we are not lacking in any gift. Without God’s power and his gifts, we will be limited in our effectiveness because we will be dependent on our own human strength and strategy.

The Creator of the Universe has given us his power and his gifts to do his work. An eternally focused and real work that should overshadow the marvelous and creative but imaginary worlds designed by Hollywood. Love is faith in action - We go out in power and in love!

We serve a good God and a loving Father who sends us out ready for the battle!

We’ve got the armor of God as our defense against the work of the enemy- And we’ve got the gifts of the Holy Spirit to advance the kingdom of God, to draw others to Jesus and a life that makes an eternal difference!  

How do we activate God’s power?  It’s not a special magic formula! Look at the Book of Acts 4:8-13:   
(Here, Peter and John stand before the authorities.)

"8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “rulers and elders of the people! 9 if we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: it is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom god raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11 Jesus is “‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ 12 salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” 13 when they saw the courage of peter and john and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus."

Jesus is the source of our power!!
• It’s impossible to remain the same person when you draw near to Jesus!
• The Holy Spirit doesn’t bypass our brains- but we must discipline ourselves to apply what we read. 
• The religious leaders of Jesus’ day knew the scripture but had no relationship with the author!
As we read and study the Word, do we interact with Jesus, asking him what he wants us to learn and how it applies to our life? 
We have a living relationship with the Eternal God!
• His “ministry of presence”, being with us, changes us- your ministry of presence with others changes them. 
Do you ever wonder why Jesus called the twelve first- and then later, the schooled intellectual Paul?    Maybe he wanted to make a statement that god uses all people- beginning with us ordinary folks….  
God chose the foolish things of the world...  (I Corinthians 1:27)

It’s our love for him and our thankfulness for all He’s done that motivates us! We acknowledge the truth we’ve found by joining Him in his work!

Lastly- God goes out before us! This is the best news of all!
Not only does God give us work to do and empowers us to do it,
He also goes before us preparing the way. 

Here are Jesus’ words before He ascends to Heaven days later, in John 16:7-11:

"7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8 when he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 about sin, because people do not believe in me; 10 about righteousness, because I am going to the father, where you can see me no longer; 11 and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned."

1-  He will convict the world of sin  2-  He will convict it of righteousness  3-  Judgment is coming
   
All this is setting the stage in people’s hearts to prepare them to receive the message of the Gospel! The Good News that Jesus died for the sins of the World, offering freedom and eternal life in Heaven for all who would choose to believe in Him.

You are called to be a superhero! The mission is real. 
As Christians, we’re called to set the captives free. We’re sent out in the power of the word and the power of the Holy Spirit!
If you’re led by God, you will never regret stepping out and taking risks as he leads. 

Who will you serve?

His Holy Spirit lives in you (empowering you) and should be controlling how you live.
We must:  
1- Accept our place in life
2- Adjust to our unique design 
3- Understand our mission

Can you hear him speaking and drawing you to his purposes? Are you listening for his voice?  Is it time to release your inner superhero? There’s no age limit! Don’t get your adrenaline fix on the imaginary! 

Be led by the spirit. Don't be a slave to fear. Be willing to share in his sufferings (his will for your life instead of yours). (Romans 8:12-18)

Are you tired? If you have been serving God, if you have been reaching out, if you consider yourself “on mission”, know this: God is pleased. Keep going! The race isn’t over yet!

Or want to step out? Feeling God’s call to you?
Wanting more than what you’ve known?  Know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (I Corinthians 15:58)

Maybe you’ve never come to the place of allowing Jesus to take control of your life and wash away your sin? He’s been calling you and it’s time to respond.

“He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (1 John 5:12) He not only shares his power with us, he shares his victory over death with us- it’s a gift!

Are you ready to release your inner Superhero?
(Art copyright Marvel, Star Wars, etc.)

An EPIC Announcement

The game of chess changes for the Walt Disney World Resort on May 22, 2024. Today, Universal Orlando announced the grand opening sate of May 22 for the incredible looking Epic Universe! In this corner, we have the suits at Disney who are slow to build but have a rabid fan base. In the other corner, we have relative upstart Universal who has access to one of the most beloved franchises ever: Harry Potter. With two parks gaining a massive following and the Boy Who Lived soon to be present in three separate parks, Disney continues to lose days guests to their competition. Will Encanto and Indiana Jones sway the flow? Will a Cars themed Frontierland tip the scales? We will see. Let the real battle begin!

(Art copyright Universal Creative.)

Happy Birthday Richard Carpenter

Happy Birthday to the man behind the songs you love by singer and sister Karen Carpenter. Arranger, producer, singer, and songwriter, the very gifted Richard Carpenter is the guy that wrote some of the duo's famous hits. Yesterday Once More, Top of the World, I Need to Be in Love, and Only Yesterday are among the favorites of Carpenters fans all over the world. He's still working! 

Richard's latest project is a brand new compilation of their holiday hits called Christmas Once More. Just imagine using today's technology and removing all the background noise and such, bringing a fresh sheen to classic hits like Merry Christmas Darling, and you get the idea. Anyway, Happy Birthday, Richard! And thank you for the music.

Goodbye, Figment, Goodbye

My beloved mascot of EPCOT Center and Journey into Imagination. What is there to say about Figment that hasn't been said? Imagineer Tony Baxter created him with a dash of childish delight, and I just couldn't get enough of the attraction and theme song! Of course, it became obvious I just had to buy a stuffed version of this little dragon. Be it a Kodak project made it all the better! It's been over 40 years he's been at my home. My kids played with him, but over time, he was delegated to a dark corner of the closet. 

Quite an appropriate picture of how Disney CEOs Michael Eisner, Robert Iger, Bob Chapek, and Robert Iger again have treated him. They have largely ignored him, just pimping him out when they need a merchandise sale boost and want to convince unsuspecting park goers that they really do have the beloved Old Epcot in mind. 

As for me, as we pack up our life and move to a new home, it's time to admit that little purple dragon needs to move in to the afterlife. Tired eyes, broken horns, a sacking neck that doesn't sit straight, dirtied body, and a tear or two means it's time to say goodbye. So, goodbye, Figment, goodbye. One day, maybe a new generation of Disney CEOs- ones who can really dream with childlike wonder- will bring you an attraction worthy of your name...

Disneyland's First Coaster- The Matterhorn Bobsleds I Never Knew

When Imagineer Herb Ryman created a piece of concept art, it was instantly identifiable. Obviously, most of his work was for Disneyland and EPCOT Center. I've seen a lot, but I have never seen this one. It is gorgeous! Filled with vibrant blues and rich greens, his work here is among his most beautiful pieces. This captures all the raw energy and excitement of the world's first tubular steel roller coaster. It could only happen at Disneyland. 

Was the attraction's home in Fantasyland or Tomorrowland? It started out in the guidebooks as being listed in the land of the future, but it moved to the happiest land of all in the early 1970's. 

Walt Disney was ahead of his time, even back in 1959 when this beloved ride first opened to the public, he knew it would be a huge hit with guests. And it was! A mere 65 years later, the Matterhorn Bobsleds satisfies riders with a longing to hit its icy slopes, bringing laughter, smiles, and ...very sore necks and backs. I totally skipped it during my last few visits to the park.

I say tear it down.

And then rebuild it in the exact same location with modern technology and the same track route. It's a classic that we love, but we shouldn't be in pain in after we take a ride. Show it the love it deserves. Show the guests some respect. Do it now, and watch the lines increase once again. Please.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

The Most Beautiful Restaurant in Italy

When it comes to dining in Italy, the choices are astounding with the scale and scope of meals available. Sometimes, making a decision boils down to the old real estate adage: Location, location, location. Just where would you expect to find the most beautiful restaurant in Italy? Classic Rome? Along the canals of Venice? In the hillsides of Tuscany or the fashionable streets of Milan? No, the most beautiful and world famous restaurant in a country of top choices is to be found in Sorrento. Ristorante ‘o Parrucchiano la Favorita has to be seen to be truly understood.

An unassuming facade gives no hint of the luxuries and variety of dining rooms within. It's almost as if the owners did not want you to discover the place. Beginning in 1868, yes 1868, this place has been a feast for the eyes and the taste buds due to the vision of Antonino Ercolano, a seminarian with a passion for food- and an eye for beautiful settings in which to relax and enjoy it.

We stumbled upon this amazing spot almost by accident. By this point in our trip, we were preparing ourselves to fly to Paris. We had one full day left before departing in the morning, so we wrapped up our touring by wandering the stunning avenues of the town. (Our trip report begins here. Rome is all you are led to believe it is by the travel writers! It is now one of my favorite travel locations.)

Sticking our heads inside and walking into the first two dining rooms, we knew we had to return the next day for our last dinner in the country. Reservations in hand, we awaited what we knew would be a very memorable evening. And was it ever!

Two official photos- the one at the top of the article and this one directly above.

Walking past room after room, each with its own unique personality, we ascended multiple levels until we reached the Lemon Garden. Have you ever dined inside a greenhouse? It's a wonderful experience! The lush greenery that only God could create mixes with the elegance of glass and metal to create something fresh and charming. 

Below are a few more shots of the different dining rooms:

Now, you would expect it would be very, very expensive to dine here- and you'd be wrong.  Ristorante ‘o Parrucchiano la Favorita was actually quite reasonable, only about $5-10 more per person than some of our other meals. Surprising, right?

Now, would the food match the show stopping surroundings? Most definitely. (You can see their menu here.) 

OK- just one more official photo.

The birthplace of Cannelloni. Yes, this is where it all began. For me, I had my share of pasta and was in the mood for something entirely different. I chose the grilled tenderloin with its very flavorful pink pepper sauce. The roasted potatoes that came with it were mouth watering. Just delicious. But in all honesty, the standout dish was the simple tomato and mozzarella cheese salad. Sometimes, the most common dishes are taken to the next level, and this was the case. The vine tomatoes were grown in their own greenhouse, and they are famous in the region for their robust flavor. With the perfect glass of wine, this starter dish was light and refreshing. 

In a restaurant that seated- I think I remember our waiter saying 800 - it was a well loved location for wedding receptions and corporate parties. Yet, in spite of its size, the place felt warm and intimate. The service was also warm and friendly in true Italian style. When you toss in two of your best friends, my wife and I had one more perfect evening. God's hand of blessing felt evident that night. I can't explain it, but if you have that personal relationship with him through Jesus, you know exactly what I'm talking about. 

No, this wasn't a Dine or Ditch review like the other ones I've written for Disney locations, but I can say with all certainty and no reservation at all- Eat at this place if you ever get the chance!

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)