Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Top Ten Subjects

It's about time for another top ten, right?

How about my top ten school subjects. We'll leave out college courses for now.


1. Consumer Math.
This should be a required course. So many people don't know how to handle money or do simple arithmetic. Even with calculators, people are at the mercy of banks. Learn to do your own taxes!

2. Geometry. It's not about theorems and finding the surface area of a bowling ball. It's about learning logic. And boy, everyone needs that!


3. Comparative World Views. Why is the Bible different than Islam? What does secular humanism really mean? This is a practical, enjoyable class.

4. World History. Sadly, the achievement tests that our kids take seem to think that world history = American history. I love American history (see below), but it's more fascinating to see the whole world in scope.


5. Algebra. Yes, there's a lot of math here. But I just enjoy watching equations come together in an orderly fashion, and that begins in this class.

6. Any math class that includes statistics. I love stats, and while few high school classes zone in on them specifically, it's great when they devote a chapter or two to them.


7. Old Testament Survey.
Let's explore the history of the Bible. There are great stories there, but it's also good to look at WHY we read about those stories.

8. Grammar and Composition. I'm no great writer, but it's important that everyone run, RUN from this internet jibber jabber that is turning people into illiterate fools.

9. US History. Man, it's amazing what we've managed to cram in 233 years of history (yes, yes, there are 300 years before that, I know). While not as neat as looking at the whole world, it's still great to learn about.


10. Speech and Debate.
Like to argue? The rules and regulations keep this class fascinating.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Big News

Hello again from Korea!

We've been in Korea for nine years, and quite a bit has happened in that time frame. Five of our six girls were born here, I became pastor of Uijongbu Baptist Church, and my wife and I celebrated our tenth wedding anniversary.

God has been good to us during our time here. From Clara's time at the hospital this year, to the triumphs and tragedies at school at church, we have constantly seen the faithfulness of God.

At this point in time, we have, through prayerful consideration, decided to leave Uijongbu Baptist Church, and Korea. This hasn't been an easy decision for us, and was one that was made after much prayer and discussion.

It's not because we are having problems here - on the contrary, things have gone really well. We love Korea and the folk who live here, and have really enjoyed the past nine years. There have been "down" moments, but the wonderful moments outweight them greatly.

I feel that God has called me to work with children and teens at a local church, and that's not really possible in my current situation. We also are looking for a bit of a "furlough", having been here for many years.

So where are we going? Who knows!! We are praying about this - but we do know that we are willing to go anywhere. We will be staying in Korea until June/July 2010 - so we will spend the next months looking and praying about where God wants us next.

And you can help!

1.) PRAY for us. Pray that God shows us exactly what He wants us to do.

2.) If you know a local Bible-believing church that needs help, let us know! I'm willing to go anywhere, really!

3.) Our moving expenses for this are going to be quite large, I'm sure. We need to raise probably $15,000 when you factor in airplane tickets, shipping, and setup expenses. We're pinching pennies here, but if you'd like to get involved - let us know! Ask God if he would have you get involved in this. The easiest way to support us would be via Paypal at tomvasel@gmail.com, but there are other ways - if you're interested, just let me know!

4.) Pray for us. I know I mentioned that in # 1, but it's vital. Pray that God shows us where to go, that we find a good ministry to be part of, and that our financial needs are met.

Thank you to everyone who supported us via prayers and love while here in Korea, but for now - I'm still here in Korea, working at school and church - and don't plan to leave yet! But we do need to start making preparations now! I'll keep you informed over the coming months.

Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.