Links to Your World--Tuesday April 3

A new survey has found that three million people who have stopped going to church or who have never been in their lives would consider attending if they were given the right invitation.

Ever thought about getting your mortgage off your back? Find out why here and find out how here.

Here is a detailed summary of Joni Earekson Tada's new book, How to Be a Christian in a Brave New World . If you've been confused about recent debates on stem cell research and cloning, Tada's book will help.

Research shows how important a dad is for the development of a child's vocabulary--and no, I'm not talking about his "golf words"!

In A Boomer Tsunami? The Southern Baptist Texan says that as Boomers age, churches will face unique challenges and opportunities. I'm so thankful for our new "Second Half Ministries," under the direction of Sheila Evaslage and her team! Learn more about Second Half Ministries and their upcoming mission project in Gene's article here.

The organization, “Texas Baptist Men,” celebrates 40 years. They are best known for disaster relief and construction of church facilities.

Check out Newsweek's dialogue between Purpose-Driven Life author Rick Warren and ardent atheist Sam Harris.

Did you read about the church that has replaced “Amen” with “Boo-yah” as their response to the pastor's points? If you like that April Fools joke, check out EHarmony for Kids.

“Switchfoot is one of the few acts today that remains secular-friendly while being grounded firmly in the faith.” Read more from Christianity Today here.

Paul Drake, a member of our church’s college group, is part of a band called Deep Sea Diving, a “tougher than metal” band as one fan described them. Check them out on MySpace.

Very cool. Find out what it would be like to swim past a Blue Whale at this website. (HT: Seed’s Daily Zeitgeist)

Have you read the previous posts this week? They include the "Song of the Week" ("Abraham" by Sufjan Stevens), my reaction to "Children of Men," some important comments about fulfilling our church's vision, and a funny video about the fears of church visitors. To keep up with the journal, sign up for e-mail updates or assign the feed to your news reader or Google Personalized Home Page.