PLEA

BE FAITHFUL

2012-02-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

In my personal devotions I read Tuesday morning of King Saul's death. It is a tragic ending to a tragic story. King Saul looked like a king. Everything about him made people at first glance take to him and want to follow him. King Saul could have had concluded his reign right, but he didn't.

After being wounded in battle, he plead for his armor bearer to kill him. The armor bearer was afraid and wouldn't kill King Saul so King Saul fell on his sword and died.

I Chronicles 10 reads, "Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord....11. and did not inquire of the Lord...."

Faithfulness counts. Faith workout works is dead. Another way to put it is that faith without faithfulness is dead. When we are unfaithful, the final outcome is death. That is what happened to Saul.

Why is it so hard to be faithful? Discouragement, pride, short-sidedness, and lack of purpose are all at the root of unfaithfulness. Saul was unfaithful for all the above reasons and more. It cost his kingdom and his life.

I want to be found faithful when our Lord comes or whenever I stand before Him.

Faithfulness counts in God's Kingdom.

NEWT WENT TO CHURCH

2012-01-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

Sunday night, last night, Wanda and I attended the annual pastor's school here at First Baptist Church. They always have great speakers and fabulous music. It is a little taste of heaven. I love the musical presentations they do.

The speaker was Joel Rosenburg, author and prophecy speaker. It was very interesting as Joel spoke from Daniel 5 and made implications of America and impending judgement. He also spoke of the strong possibility of was between Israel and Iran in 2012. I would tend to agree with him.

As the program progressed, they introduced House Speaker Newt Ginrich. They didn't let him address the crowd, but he did get a standing ovation. Newt also got to hear the Gospel. The pastor of First Baptist didn't give an endorsement of any kind, but you could didn't get the feel of pro-Newt in the crowd.

I couldn't help but wonder what this service might mean to Newt and America if per chance he was to win the Presidency? I don't know that he will be elected, but who knows?

The bottom line is that we had better pray daily for America. I believe our Country's soul and future is weighing in the balance. Our victory is not merely in conservations winning elections, but rather us humbling ourselves before God.

Tuesday I will vote, but everyday I am praying for America. That is our only hope.

TOO MUCH POLITICAL

2012-01-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

Ring!

Hello.

This is Mitt Romney, or Newt. None of the others have called yet.

So who shall I vote for? One man flip-flops over the abortion and pro-life/pro-choice issue. One man has had multiple affairs. One man doesn't seem to have a very good chance to win. One man has dropped out of the race. So who do you vote for in the Florida Republican Primary?

I weary of all the phone calls and negative ads and ugly debates. Why do they have to make is so personal rather than focusing on the needs and future of our Country?

The sad news is that we're only getting started. The Republican Primary will end and then we'll head to the National Elections. Want that be fun?

So what is my choice?

I chose to pray for America. I chose to vote my conscience after prayerful and forthright thought. America is in God's hands. He knows the future. I need not worry. I'm just tired of all of the fussing and politics.

THE CHOICE OF LOVE

2012-01-25T07:00:00.006-05:00

Love doesn't always come easy. Sometimes it has a price. It can require great sacrifice, endurance, forbearance, and patience. Deep love moves beyond moods, feelings, or sheer attractions.

It is a choice to have a forgiving love.

It is a choice to have a sacrificial love.

It is a choice to have an overlooking love.

It is a choice to have an extra-mile love.

It is a choice to have a until death we part love.

I have found that God's love in us is that extra push, motivation, and grace to live beyond the moment and mere feelings. God's love doesn't fail, waver, or fall short. It chooses to stand and remain faithful.

Wanda and I are reading an new book entitled "The Sexperiment". Now isn't that an interesting title. In it the authors, Ed and Lisa Young, write about oneness. They share that when you are one in marriage that any harm to the other becomes harm to you. Oneness means that as we are joined in heart, faith, spirit, and body that you cannot separate what effects one from the other.

To hurt your mate means you are hurting yourself because you are one. You cannot separate the impact of the other from yourself. It becomes impossible. So it only seems reasonable to make sure that the choices that one makes are good choices. Those chooses bless or hurt your own being.

In marriage when we are one, the equation is like this:

1 + 1 = 1

This is the marriage equation. So I have made the choice to love. It is a decision that binds me to how I will act and react. It is a premeditated choice of of love. It blesses me for we are one.

COOKBOOKS

2012-01-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

Wanda cooked an incredible lunch for Sunday dinner. Mashed potatoes, green beans, sweet corn, and a pork loin made for a delicious feast. It was scrumptious. Her mom and Carolyn, one of her sisters, came over from Tallahassee to spend a day or so. She also had a jello, strawberry, whipped cream dessert. My goodness was that ever good.

After the feast, we sat around the table talking. Someone brought up the cookbook the ladies group from Bartow First Assembly put together when I was the pastor there. Wanda got the book out, and I scanned through the recipes. Now there are some fantastic dishes there. Church folks know how to cook.

While scanning the book, I found my one and only entry into a cookbook. Now you know that I don't cook, so what could I put in there?

It is my famous Raisin Bran cereal recipe. You can't miss with this one. Simple is the key word. Maybe funny is the word too! But it really is in the book.

OOPS!

2012-01-20T09:20:00.001-05:00

That never to be forgotten Christmas gift surely will never be forgotten. It leaks!

EATING BETTER

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Food is fuel. It helps run my body and your body too. I have a theory about food and fat. It goes like this: food is like gasoline for our cars in that food is our fuel. With our bodies, the more we expend energy and physical exertion, the more the fuel is burned up. The more we put fuel in without using it, the more and the faster it turns to fat.

Fuel + No Exercise = Fat

Ha!

Here is the better formula:

Fuel + Exercise = Fit

So what kind of fuel should we use? And, how much exercise should we do? I am working on that formula and Wanda is helping me with the food part. We are leaving off fried foods and heavy starches and sugars. That means no sweets and desserts. Now that is a change from the Holidays. Our diet is balanced and we're actually eating more. We're eating 3 meals a day with 3 small snacks a day too.

I recently had a test to determine my body fat. I am 8 points too high. It was 28% and should be around 19-20% for my age and height. The same test noted that my body is is 72 years old. That isn't so hot for a 62 year old man. I've got to change that, and I am.

I've lost about 4 pounds. I am running 5 days a week training for another 15K Gate River Run in March. I did a four mile run last Friday.

Actually, on Thursday I attempted a 3 mile run and just couldn't do it. I quit after about 2.5 miles. My tank was empty. It was discouraging. Later, I realized I just didn't have the energy needed for the run because I had not eaten in several hours.

On Friday just one day later, I ate properly at the right time and breezed through a four mile run. The day before I couldn't make it 3 miles. Amazing! Eating right pays!

Spiritually, we need to make sure we are feeding our lives. Too many are drained, zapped, and wasted because they failed to eat properly spiritually. Jesus said that we cannot live by bread alone. We need spiritual food.

So I am eating properly, with right portions, and regularly. It makes the day go better. Likewise, I am taking care of my spiritual man. That makes everything go better.

REMEMBERING MARTIN LUTHER KING

2012-01-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

I grew up in Montgomery, Al, as a boy when Martin Luther King lived there. He obviously was much older than me as he was a pastor. I was just a kid. I remember him leading marches and the beginnings of the Civil Rights Movement.

This Sunday at church one of our families mentioned that they would be a part of the Martin Luther King Parade today here in Jacksonville. There was a sense of pride, thankfulness, and excitement in their hearts. I was thrilled for them.

There once was a sad day in America when African Americans were pushed to the back and treated unfairly. Even worse there was a day of slavery. Thankfully those days are long gone. Segregation as I knew it as a boy has ended. Thank God. Regretfully, there are many predjudices that still exist race toward race and some even interracially. How sad.

Marting Luther King wasn't perfect, but he did push for a nonviolent approach toward ending racial inequality. I salute him for that and many other good things he did.

Today, may God help us to treat others as we would want to be treated. I believe our Lord taught us to do that.

PREPARING

2012-01-13T07:00:00.002-05:00

It seems like I spend a ton of time getting ready to go. In and out of the driveway day after day, I go. That is preceded by dressing up. Teeth brushed, shaved, bathed, hair combed, properly dressed, gathering all the stuff needed for the day, and here I go again, and again, and again, and again.

Isn't that life?

Sometimes I have to get dressed several times in one day, depending on what's happening. If I run or jog or have and evening church event or work in the yard, then I go through the process over and over.

When we get our new, glorified bodies, it would be nice if they automatically cleaned themselves and you could just think what you needed to have on to wear, and poof! It just all took place.

That would help this getting ready over and over again.

I feel all this frustration and I'm a man. It doesn't take me but a few minutes to prepare for the day. I don't wear makeup, or have to fix-up my hair, or coordinate much. However, it still gets tiresome.

But getting dressed isn't the only preparations happening in my day. I prepare for teaching, preaching, and ministering over and over. I love that part. The longer I have prepared the more I have learned how to prepare. Reading, studying, meditating, praying, making notes and outlines, and so forth are all a part of preparing.

Then there is preparations for all kinds of other life projects. Like yard work. Or general oversight of things here at the church, or trips, or events, weddings, funerals, and counseling.

Sometimes, preparations seem to never end, but without proper preparation the process of doing is slowed or becomes futile. Preparation is vital to life success.

What about preparing for heaven? Or eternity? What about preparing loved ones for the next life. Jesus said not everyone is going to make heaven. That is not my words, those are our Lord's Words.

So I think I'll spend a little more time getting ready for eternity. That is the only preparation that matters. What do you think?

READING THROUGH THE BIBLE

2012-01-11T07:00:00.003-05:00

I have a greater hunger for God's Word. I have read it, memorized it, taught it, preached it, meditated on it, and quoted it all my life. In my family growing up we always included God's Word every morning before beginning the day. Mom or dad read the Scriptures to us. I learned the importance of God's Word daily through them.

Now I have made an even greater commitment to reading the Word. I don't know how many times I have read the Bible through. I have read and re-read it over and over. I have memorized many chapters and once memorized a whole book.

Why read the Bible?

It is alive. It is truth. It guides, corrects, instructs, inspires, comforts, and points the way to God. It feeds my soul and purifies my being. It helps me to keep from sinning. It convicts me of my sin and points me in the right way. It blesses my life. It is the best.

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. The Bible is The Word of God.

This year I am committing to reading the Bible through four times and the New Testament through four more times. So I will have read the New Testament through a total of eight times when the year ends.

How do you read the Bible through four times or once every ninety days? You do it by reading approxiamately fifteen chapters daily. To read the New Testament through in ninety days, you must read three chapters daily. That makes for reading 18 chapters or so each day. How long does that take? For me, it takes about forty minutes or so. That does not include studying or meditating, but merely reading through the text.

I have already read Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus and I am into Numbers. I have read through Matthew also. The more I read, them more I want to read. It is exhilarating!

I use YouVersion and one of their reading plans. It is a website that allows you to make an account and choose a reading plan. It checked it off as I read. It makes it easy to keep track.

Reading is a hobby for me anyhow. This year, I have already read Tim Tebow's new book that Wanda gave me for Christmas. Julie gave me a copy of his book too. I am reading Joel Osteen's new book, and also just completed reading Bart Starr's latest book. He is the legendary quarterback for Alabama and the Green Bay Packers.

Why read so much? There is so much to learn, experience, and enjoy.

Read the Bible first. It will feed you soul.

I LIKE THIS!

2012-01-09T09:57:00.006-05:00

A life-long minister friend, David Arnold, recently shared this story. It is faith-building. Hope it blesses you.

David wrote:

Dallas Seminary was founded in 1924, and shortly afterwards, due to financial lack, it almost folded. It was nearing bankruptcy. The creditors were prepared to foreclose at 12:00 noon on a particular day.

That morning, the founders of the school gathered in the president’s office to pray for God’s provision. During the prayer meeting, Harry Ironside prayed boldly, “Lord, we know that the cattle on a thousand hills are Thine. Please sell some of them and send us the money.” See Psalm 50:10.

About that same time, a tall Texan, with his large boots and hat, walked into the business office. “Howdy!” he expressed to the secretary. “I just sold two carloads of cattle over in Fort Worth. I’ve been trying to make a business deal go through, but it just won’t work. I feel God wants me to give this money to the seminary. I don’t know if you need it or not, but here’s the check,” handing it to her.

The secretary took the check, and, aware of the critical hour, went to the door of the prayer meeting and softly tapped. Dr. Lewis Sperry Chafer, the founder and president of the school, answered the door, and took the check from her. When he looked at the amount, it was for the exact amount of the debt. Then he recognized the name on the check as that of a cattleman. Turning to Dr. Ironside, he said, “Harry, God sold the cattle!”

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).

***

So what is your need?

Turn it over to the Lord. He has enough cattle to sell for all of us.

LISTENING TO HIS VOICE

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

Does God speak to people today? How does He speak? How do you know if it is the Lord speaking, or your own inner thinking, or maybe even the devil talking to you? Does the devil talk to us?

Jesus said that His sheep know His voice. So according to our Lord, He speaks and if we are one of His sheep then we know His voice.

For me, there are times that I clearly know that He is speaking to me, but there are are some other times that I wonder. I have uncertainty about what I am to do or what He wants me to do.

How do we know His voice? How does He speak?

The most obvious way He speaks is through His written Word. That is His will, His thoughts, His voice. But what about specific issues that His Word doesn't address in my life? Like, who should I marry? Or where should I work, or live, or changes to I might need to make? How do we know His will in these matters? How does He speak to us about these choices?

Here are a few thoughts that have worked for me:

1. What does godly counsel say about it.

2. Is the door open for this?

3. What is the Holy Spirit saying to me?

4. Do I have a peace about it?

Prayer includes listening to God. It includes waiting with quiet meditation. It is willing to be still. It gives God a fair shot at getting through all the clutter of life.

Here is a good verse:

Psalm 46:

¹⁰ Be still, and know that I am God;.....

If we will just be still, wait, and listen, then He will speak and we will know His voice and all will be well.

GETTIN IN SHAPE

2012-01-04T07:00:00.001-05:00

Sunday I told my congregation that we need to be diligent to take care of our bodies, after all, we only get one body here on earth. In heaven we will have a glorified body, but here on earth we live in the body we were given at birth. What we do with it is up to us. God's Word says that our bodies are His temple. I need to pay attention to what kind of shape I keep His house.

Through the years I have tried to keep in some form of reasonably good shape. It is hard as a pastor. Banana pudding, fried chicken, mother's delicious pound cake, and all those church fellowship dinners make it hard to do.

Tennis, jogging, walking, sit-ups, pushups, yard work, basketball, a little swimming, and biking have all been part of my routine. I have actually jumped rope some too. Some of these forms of exercise are better than others. Mom and Dad don't like my jogging. Wanda loves to walk. Now I am hitting it again as a New Year begins.

My goal is to lose 15 pounds or so. I am training for the 15K Gate River Run in March. Losing two pounds a week isn't too much too ask.

I won't to enjoy life, work, and all that God has for me. Keeping in good shape will make that happen. So it is back to work. I feel better already!

MEMORIZING THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE

2012-01-02T09:34:00.002-05:00

When I was a boy I learned to quote the Books of the Bible in order by singing them. We often sang them in children's church. Then we would have Bible sword drills to see who could find a passage the quickest. Singing the Books of the Bible and sword drills were a fun and motivating way to learn about the Bible.

How many Books are in the Old Testament?

How many Books are in the New Testament?

How many Books are in the Bible?

What are the Gospels? Poetic Books? Prophetic? Epistles? Pentateuch?

How did we get the Bible in the first place? Why is it such an important book? Is it important? How often should we read it?

There are many other questions and thoughts about this most amazing book. As I have begun this New Year, I have started a Bible reading program that will take me through the Bible four times this year. That will take some time and effort, but this Book is alive. It is powerful. It is wisdom. It speaks to us today.

While Nic and Alex were here with their mother during Christmas, I challenged the boys to learn the Books of the Bible. We went online and found UTube videos of children singing the Books. They loved it. I told them that there was $10 for each of them when they could say or sing the Books in order. They are both diligently learning them. We also read the Roman road together.

What is the Roman Road?

Read Romans 3:23, 6:23, 10:9,10.

These Scriptures tells us our need of salvation and how to be saved. Along with John 3:16, they are some of the most important Scriptures in the Bible.

Can you sing the Books of the Bible? Do you know the Books of the Bible. It is a Holy Book. It is the Holy Word of God. Read it. Memorize it. It is Life!

NEW YEARS PLANS

2011-12-30T09:38:00.003-05:00

The New Year is just a day away. I can't believe 2011 is spent. Time just flies when you're having fun. We had a full and enjoyable year. So many good things happened in our church. Sadly, we lost some wonderful church members who are in heaven now. The good news is that they are in heaven. There is another alternative, you know.

Wanda and I traveled a good bit this year. We made a motorcycle trip to the mountains and traveled to Arizona. Of course, there were many trips to see family.

Now what is in store for 2012?

Sunday I am preaching a sermon entitled, "Five Things To Do So That You Can Enjoy All God Has for You in 2012."

What are they?

1. Connect with God.

2. Throw Out the Trash.

3. Read Something Good.

4. Take Care of Your Temple.

5. Do What You Know To Do.

Of course I will elaborate some, but that is it. We all need to pay attention to each of these points. I believe they are the secret to having a great New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone!

SHOW GRACE

2011-12-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

Grace is unmerited favor. It is kindness shown for the undeserving. It is the manifestation of God's love. It is clemency. It covers failures and shortcomings. It forgives, forgets, and forbears.

All of us need it. We all fall short. No one is perfecK.

Grace should not be taken for-granted or abused. Grace received should be with thanksgiving and gratitude.

Once I had to go before a judge due to not having a properly registered car tag. I had registered the car, but unknowing to me the metal tag wasn't current. A officer stopped me and gave me a citation. As I stood before the judge I could show that the car sticker was current, but I didn't know what happened with the tag. It could have cost several hundred dollars.

But, the judge was gracious. The state prosecutor wanted a harsher sentence, but the judge accepted my answer and let me go.

Whew!

Was I ever grateful. I deserved a fine, but grace was given.

I was thankful beyond my few words here. What is the point? All of us need grace at one time or another. It behooves us to show grace.

Grace is good.

A GIFT TO REMEMBER

2011-12-26T19:24:00.003-05:00

I told Wanda that I had bought her a gift for Christmas this year that she would never forget. That perked her curiosity. We both bought each other five gifts for Christmas. It wasn't planned, but that is what happened.

So on Christmas Eve she opened three gifts and I opened three gifts. We saved two each to open on Christmas morning. I picked the ones she was to open and she picked the ones I was to open.

You guessed it. The gift that she will never forget was saved to open until Christmas morning. She got more curious.

Now all the giving and receiving is over, except for Julie and the boys. There is one Christmas celebration to share. They are excited.

But probably not any more curious than Wanda was about her gift to remember. I kept telling her that she would never forget this one. So Sunday morning came and two more gifts were opened by each of us.

One of her gifts was gold earrings. She loved them, but they were not to the gift to remember. That was yet to come. What do you think?

A ring?

Perfume?

A car?

A purse?

Diamonds?

No, this was to be a gift never to be forgotten. We've gotten into camping some, and when you camp in a tent there is one convenience that they don't add in any tent I have ever seen. Wanda has had to slip out into the night and into the bushes because of this forgotten convenience. So have you guessed the gift to remember yet? I gave her a camping, portable potty! She laughed and loved it. Now that is a gift to remember on a cold, dark night in a tent!

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

My post is brief. I'm busy.

What do pastors do?

Shepherd the flock. Pray. Preach the Word. Reach the lost. Disciple converts. Equip saints. Administrate. Vision cast. Plan. Organize. Implement. Help the fallen. Marry. Bury. Dedicate. Fellowship. Eat. Visit. Counsel......

Start all over and do it again, and again, and again, and again.

There is never a boring moment. Some moments are challenging, but never boring.

I love being a pastor. I serve a wonderful church. They are the best.

A SPECIAL GIFT FOR WANDA

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

I will admit it that shopping isn't my most favorite thing. I do love to buy gifts, that is if I know what the person would like. Wanda has been asking me what I want for Christmas. I've asked her too. We both want to see each other blessed, and our children and families blessed, and our church blessed. So how do we do it?

Wanda has asked over and over what I would like beyond seeing others blessed. I have had a difficult time coming up with much. See bought me and Ipad2 for my birthday, and I have bought the needed apps to make it do what I want.

She has told me a couple of things she would like and has been nice enough to pick them out. That makes my job much easier. I will pick something out also for her. She is such a wonderful, beautiful wife. I love her. I want to see a smile when she opens my gift. I still have some shopping and gift buying to do.

A couple years back we didn't have gifts under our tree for each other due to other things we were doing and enjoying that we counted as Christmas. It wasn't quite the same. There wasn't a package to shake or tear into. We missed the fun and joy of opening gifts. We won't do that again.

I can't wait to see the grands open their gifts. I see smiles already. That are so cute and loving.

But the most special gift of Christmas is Christ. All the busyiness must never cloud or distract from the meaning of it all. Our Lord gave us the gift of life by His coming into this world. We have peace and joy because He so loved us.

Gift exchanging is fun, but the first gift of Christmas was the highest.

SMILE POWER

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Smiles change lives, the mood of a room, the despair of a fallen heart. What is a smile worth? First it is a very inexpensive gift, but it has priceless value. I have had people make faces at me, wrinkle their noses, and turn their heads. Nothing good comes from that, but a smile is a different thing. Smiles perk the attitude and atmosphere.

As kids we sang, "Smile awhile and give your face a rest, raise your hand to the one you love the best. Then shake hands with those near by...." My mind cannot come up with the rest of the words, but I know the value of a cheerful, warm, look.

I've read that people who smile more make more. I know that their smile shows a intentional effort to have a positive view and a positive perspective. Smiles are outer reflections of a cheerful, thankful heart.

I read a story about a man who thought all was lost. He didn't have hope. He didn't think he had a reason to smile so he didn't. He went to a counselor and told his plight. The wise counselor asked the man to take a sheet of paper and write "assets" at the top of the sheet on one side and "liabilities" on the other side.

The man said he didn't have any assets and couldn't see the reason of making such a list.

So the counselor asked the discouraged man to put deceased wife on the liability side.

"My wife isn't deceased," the man responded.

The counselor said, "Then put that on the asset side. Now, put house burned down on the liability side."

"My house hasn't burned down," the frowning man said.

"Then put your house on the asset side, and put fired from job on the liability side," the counselor continued.

"I haven't been fired either. I have a job," the man shot back.

"Then put that on the asset side," the counselor directed.

The assets were beginning to far exceed his liabilites. The point is that too often we have a very poor perspective of how things really are. So I guess we need to count our blessings for God has been so good to all of us.

Now, smile!

I'VE GOT SNIFFLES

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Ugh!

I don't feel so hot. I have caught the sniffles or whatever is gong around. One moment I have chills and then the next I am hot. Don't think I have had a fever. And boy can I sneeze. Just ask Wanda. I think I have sneezed to loud that she has nearly fainted.

My cure is lots of liquids, rest, soup, and cold medicines. More than that I have prayed and asked the Lord to touch my body.

Someone asked me recently if God heals. My answer is yes, I believe God heals today. Is everyone healed? The obvious answer is no. I don't have all the answers on divine healing, but I know that if we pray then God hears. I would rather believe in a prayer answering God who doesn't limit how He answers or what prayers He answers. If He answers any prayers, and He does, then I believe He can answer all prayers.

So I am expecting to get better soon. He cares about colds too!

TEBOWISM'S

2011-12-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

What is a Tebowism?

It comes from the current phenomena of Tim Tebow and his football prowess and faith. Tim Tebow became the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos this season after their team had a very poor start. They ware 1-4 before Tebow, and now the Broncos are 8-5 after Tebow. He has lead them to 7 wins and many of them in overtime. He has become a national phenomena because of his faith and grit on the football field.

Now a Tebowism is a term being used to explain the unexplainable turn of events that lead to success. It often includes miracle-like events. Tebowisms occur when people don't quit in spite of insurmountable odds.

Tim Tebow often kneels on the football field in prayerful thanks after a miraculous win. He gives glory to His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He is not ashamed of his faith nor His Lord.

Tim is clean-cut, apple pie, and a generally good guy. He is also a leader, a determined football player, and strong-willed in his convictions. He doesn't compromise.

Those are head turning qualities. His sincerely, purity, and bold faith are unflappable. He is real.

Real faith is good.

He has beat all oddsmakers who said he couldn't play quarterback in the NFL. I am sincerely praying that God will help Tim to be one of the ones He uses to speak faith back into a faithless Nation.

***

Lord, please make Tim bold, courageous, and even more passionate. Help him bring glory to your name in winning or losing. Use Tim to speak faith to a faithless generation. Protect him and keep him.

In Jesus Name, Amen!

VISION LIKE A SNAIL

2011-12-12T09:52:00.004-05:00

The snail was climbing up the tree when a worm peeked out a woodpecker hole and asked where the snail was going?

The snail replied, "I am climbing the tree to get some apples."

The worms smirked, "There are no apples in the tree."

"There will be when I get up there," the snail responded.

Sometimes slow, determined perseverance is the only way to achieve the desired goal. It would be nice if everything moved at the pace we want, but that just isn't life. Most of the great victories of life come from hard work and lots of sweat.

Here is the point. Keep climbing up the tree like the snail. You'll get there at the right time, and the apples will taste even better than you can imagine.

GRANDS ARE GREAT!

2011-12-09T10:38:00.002-05:00

Wanda and I are on the run. We left Jacksonville on Thursday afternoon headed to Tampa. We left Tampa that evening driving back up to Leesburg. Friday morning we’re headed to Orlando, and then later Friday afternoon we return back to Jacksonville.

Why make such a trip?

The answer is simple.

Grandchildren!

One grandson had a track meet. One grandson had a music concert. One grandson had a football game. Proud grandparents want to see it all.

We can’t do everything or go to everything they do, but it is a joy to share in their lives and watch them grow up. It is happening so quickly. They are good grands. We are proud of them all.

We also celebrated Julie’s birthday which is next Tuesday. We made every moment count. Julie is such a beautiful young woman. We are so proud and thankful to the Lord for her.

Between going to Tampa and Orlando we stopped overnight and saw mom and dad. Our visits were too quick, but very enjoyable. We love our family.

COMMUNICATION SPEED

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

I am amazed at how fast news travels. The speed and amount of communication in today's world is totally incredible. What must the world been like before telegraphs, trans-Atlantic cable, phones, or television.

And now we are in the age of hyper-communication with twitter, texting, social networks, Internet news, and YouTube. I can talk with folks and see them on my phone. I get pictures of grandchildren's events at long distances away. Wow!

But no modern communication comes close to the manner which God communicates. He needs no server, wires, cables, buttons, or tech savvy to share or connect to me. He is there. He is everywhere with no limits, boundaries, or barriers. He is God.

I am amazed that He would talk or spend time with me. I thank you Lord for reaching out to me, for loving me, for caring for me. I am amazed that you would patiently wait for me to talk to you. Please forgive me when I fail to take time with you. Thank you for caring for me and listening to me.

And all that with no connection costs.

WHAT ARE YOU SAYING?

2011-12-05T07:00:00.006-05:00

What we say moves us toward what we'll eventually have. Positive words help us enjoy positive results. Spoken words have value and consequence.

I recently read these words from a devotional book. Maybe they will encourage you as they did me.

"Instead of saying, ‘We’ve never done it before,’ say, ‘We have the opportunity to be first.’

Instead of saying, ‘We don’t have the resources,’ say, ‘Necessity fuels invention.’

Instead of saying, ‘There’s not enough time,’ say, ‘We’ll change how we work.’

Instead of saying, ‘We’ve already tried that,’ say, ‘We learned from experience.’

Instead of saying, ‘We don’t have the expertise,’ say, ‘Let’s network with those who do.’

Instead of saying, ‘Our vendors and customers won’t go for it,’ say, ‘Let’s show them the opportunities.’

Instead of saying, ‘We don’t have enough money,’ say, ‘Maybe there’s something we can cut.’

Instead of saying, ‘We’re understaffed,’ say, ‘We’re a lean, hungry team.’

Instead of saying, ‘It’ll never get any better,’ say, ‘We’ll try one more time.’

Instead of saying, ‘Let somebody else deal with it,’ say, ‘I’m ready to learn something new.’

Instead of saying, ‘It’s not my job,’ say, ‘I’ll be glad to take the responsibility.’

Instead of saying, ‘I can’t,’ say, ‘By God’s grace I can!’”

(From Daily Devotionals: A Word for you Today: Word For You Today -- Online Devotionals)

So, what are you saying?

***

By the way, Alabama will play LSU for the National College Football Championship!

Roll Tide!

DECORATING TIME AGAIN

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas lights, and Christmas trees, and lots of Christmas packages. It is that time of year again. I have already climbed into the attic to pull down decorations for Wanda, and now it is time to head to the attic again to get the outdoor lights and decorations and put them up.

This has been my tradition for years and years going back to when I first owned a home in Bartow, Fl. Each year I have changed or added or left off or replaced stuff, but I like the look outdoors with Christmas lights glowing.

Our neighborhood does a good job displaying the Christmas spirit. On Christmas eve we line our streets with candles burning. People come from all over Southside to see the beauty.

I know that lots of people struggle with hurt and loss during this time especially if they have recently lost a dear one. I certainly understand that, but I also know that the Lord can shine His Light and love into our hearts to help comfort and soothe the broken heart.

His joy and peace cannot be taken away. His love brightens the way. He is, after all, The Light of the world.

So, I'll get the lights down again. I want lights, lights, and more lights to shine in a dark world.

MORE JAG CHANGES

2011-11-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

In my last post I wrote about missed opportunities and referenced the missed opportunity of the Jacksonville Jaguar team in not drafting Tim Tebow. I noted that the team he is quarterback for is winning, and our Jag team is losing. I think not drafting Tim Tebow was a terrible mistake.

Today the Jacksonville Jaguars fired the head coach, Jack Del Rio. He is considered the goat for our losing team, but I think the root problem is deeper than just with the coach.

Now the team is being sold too. They say the team will stay in Jacksonville, but time will tell on that one. For now change is in the wind.

The coach will still be paid several million dollars so only is pride is really hurt. Millions of dollars will heal his wound and make him good as new.

What will the future hold for the Jags?

A new head coach.

More promises and hope.

More uncertainty for now.

Sooner or later, players have to make plays regardless of who the coach is. Sooner or later, the game is won or lost on the field.

For now the is change in the air. We will see where it takes us.

MISSED OPPORTUNTIES

2011-11-28T07:00:00.004-05:00

The Jacksonville Jaguars lost yesterday. The Denver Broncos won. Why?

Could it be that Tim Tebow is the quarterback in Denver and not the quarterback in Jacksonville?

Our quarterback is a rookie and not playing very good. Hopefully he will do better and soon, but now we are losing. We could have had Tim Tebow in Jacksonville, but we passed him in the draft. Our team lost a great opportunity.

Sad, very sad.

I don't think that drafting Tim Tebow would have be a cure all for our team, but he is doing good. The Jags are not so hot right now. We are lacking leadership and determination. Tim has both of those in high quantity.

I wonder how many opportunities I have lost? I suspect more than I would like to know. I can think of a few. All of us have made poor choices and missed more good opportunities than we know. Maybe today we can all do better.

Look around. Make God-centered choices. Honor Him. Do good for others. Don't think of self so much. Give sacrificially. Live in the light of eternity. That will lead to less missed opportunities.

TURKY, TURKEY, TURKEY!

2011-11-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Well now, I have eaten enough turkey for the week. Can't someone pass another turkey sandwitch? How about another helping of turkey dressing?

YUM!

Pecan pie, pound cake, pumkin pie, all in my belly.

Now it is time to jog, walk, run, do sittups and pushupss, and leg lifts.

The best part is being with family. This year we are in Tallahassee with Wanda's family. They are a great bunch. It has been super!

Maybe one day Wanda and I can get all of our kids and grands together for a Thanksgiving celebration. That would be fun.

Now, Roll Tide!

Beat Auburn.

And then, go for the National Championship!

FAITHFULNESS

2011-11-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

Love is very weak or even none existent when faithfulness is absent. How can one say that they love when there is no dependability, consistency, or commitment? Can one say that they love their children when they have no care or provision to feed or clothe them? Can one say to their spouse that they love them when they really are sneaking around and having an affair?

How can we say we love God when there is little or no evidence of following His Word or making time for Him?

People do what they love. If we love sports, then sports will occupy our time. Shopping? Then off we go to the malls. Or fishing? Get the boat ready, here I come. Or golfing, or motorcycling, or cooking, or traveling, or reading, or hunting, or any thousand other love?

Here is the deal. Love, I mean true love leads to faithfulness. It leads to consistent, passionate involvement. Love for God turns into faithful acts of discipleship.

The Word say, "If you love me....? then you will keep my commandments."

It is just that simple. We all do what we want to do.

Loving God turns into real action steps of faithful, following the One we love.

GIVING THANKS

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

This week is Thanksgiving week. We'll be gathering with family and sharing Thanksgiving with Wanda's family in Tallahassee. I have already enjoyed one Thanksgiving meal with the seniors of our church. There is more turkey in my future.

In my Thanksgiving sermon on Sunday, I shared the comic cartoon of Snoopy having dog food set before him for Thanksgiving dinner. He complained why do I only get dog food. Then he paused and said, "Well it could be worse. I could be a turkey."

Ha!

We can all find something to be thankful for. No matter how tough things may be, God is good. We can still be thankful.

If for nothing else, be thankful you are not a turkey.

So don't act like one.

TELL THE TRUTH

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

The story is told about a father who went to his sons and asked which one of the had thrown the outhouse in the river.

None of them would own up to it. So the father decided to make this a teaching moment. He reminded them of George Washington's father who asked his son, George, if he had cut the cherry tree down. George said that he could not tell a lie and said that he had cut the tree down. His father forgive him because he told the truth.

Finally one of the boys fessed up, "I did it. I can't tell a lie either. I am sorry."

The father quickly grabbed the boy up and took him to the woodshed and gave it to him.

After his whipping, the son asked, "Why did you whip me. George's father forgave him."

The father said, "I understand, but George's father wasn't in the cherry tree when he cut it down."

Ha!

What is the point?

Truth is the best policy. Doing what it right always pays even if you have to take the punishment. So many today are taking shortcuts to a bad end. Truth eventually surfaces. No one is getting by with anything.

The worse thing that can happen with sin is for it to stay covered and not be found out until it is dwelt with when one stands before God. Then it will be too late.

MY PLEA

2011-11-16T09:35:00.006-05:00

When I began this blog, I had numerous thoughts about the direction I should take. My initial blog writing began due to my first wife's illness and death which eventually led to my own blog. Plea became the vehicle to express my thoughts.

Why the title Plea?

I feel a desire to write to appeal, inspire, and encourage readers by sharing my thoughts, dreams, and feeling through personal experiences and observations. I am a preacher, and preachers preach. They proclaim. They exhort. They encourage, convict, and inspire.

Lamentations 3 reads:

⁵⁵ I called on your name, LORD,
from the depths of the pit.
⁵⁶ You heard my plea: “Do not close your ears
to my cry for relief.”
⁵⁷ You came near when I called you,
and you said, “Do not fear.”

The Lord hears our pleas. He does not close His ears. He soothes and calms our fears. We do not have to be afraid.

My plea is for the higher good, to encourage a better future, destiny, and end.

God will hear that plea. I pray others do too.

HOT! HOT! HOT!

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

I am in New Iberia, LA, with Wanda and her family. One of her favorite uncles died, and the family asked if I would help with the funeral. It has been a quick trip, and we are headed home today.

We did have a few moments to tour the factory on Avery Island where they make Tabasco Pepper Sauce. When we drove into their parking lot you could smell the hot sauce and it slightly burned your eyes. It takes over 3 years for them to make the sauce as they age it 3 years before they mixed it and bottle it.

Their plant bottles over 700,000 bottles a day and ship around the whole. This process has been going on for almost 150 years back into the 1800's.

I love food. I mean I love any kind of food. But I don't enjoy hot stuff. I can take just a tiny bit of spicy stuff, but not much. They gave each of us four small bottles of the hot sauce. Don't know if I'll try any. No, I know I want try any.

Thy make ice cream with it too. Cool but hot, hot, hot.

Interesting. I tried less than half of a spoon full. That was enough for me. I can still taste it.

Hot! Hot! Hot!

WHAT IS IMPORTANT?

2011-11-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

My last post was about Penn State University and Head Football Joe Paterno and the scandal they are dealing with concerning an assistant football coach abusing little boys. It is a very sad story. For years there was a coverup at worse or negligence at least to deal with the assistant coach. Now it is all coming to light and heads are rolling. Only God knows how many innocents were abused.

The President, Head Football Coach, Athletic Director, and a Vice-President have all been fired. Their failure to properly report and protect little boys have brought them all down.

Why did they fail to report the abuses? How could this happen?

Those and other questions are still to be answered, but one thing is certain, priority is being brought into focus. The Board of Trustees are having to deal with one of the worst scandals imaginable. It is so very sad.

Some are wanting the Head Coach to continue. Lots of attention is being placed on JoePa as they call him. They worry about his legacy.

So what!

Here is the issue. Football is not king. No one is above the law. Little ones should be protected. It doesn't matter if they ever play another football game or not there. What matters is that there is a return to sanity and a real world.

How can you really feel so sorry for a few coaches when little boys have been abused and violated. That is where the attention and sorrow should be.

May God have mercy on those little ones. That is what is important.

WHAT ABOUT JOE PATERNO?

2011-11-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Who is Joe Paterno?

He is the long time head football coach for Penn State University. He is the all-time winningness football coach ever. He has over 400 wins beating all other head football coaches. He is 84 years old and has been known to be respected and well thought of as a "good guy".

Now he is under fire because he fell to report an assistant football coach who was reported to him of abusing little boys. This happened years ago and no one did anything to find or help the little boys or other little boys.

Now Penn State Athletic Director and other administrative heads are rightfully under fire for not reporting this to the police. Coach Paterno is being called into question over this also. Legal and moral obligations were not properly met or exercised. How so very, very sad for all these little boys.

What is the point here?

The point is that we do have moral responsibilities. We cannot turn our backs on innocents. There are acceptable and non-acceptable laws of behavior. Mankind does have a moral obligation.

I don't know the truth or details of all this. Coach Joe Paterno may not have done anything wrong, but it strongly appears that a cover-up was in the works. It appears their sacred program was held in higher esteem than the care of innocent little boys. It appears something was terribly, morally wrong at Penn State. As of this writing, Coach Paterno has been unwilling to talk to reporters or anyone about his actions. He has had hundreds and hundreds of press conferences about football, but now he cannot meet and answer what happened to innocent little boys.

No one gets by with anything. They may or may not be found out in this life, but God sees all and knows all. He has a total observation of every detail and misdeed. Before Him, we will all give account.

MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

2011-11-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Well by now you know it, at least if you know anything about college football. Alabama lost to LSU 9-6 on Saturday night. It was billed at the game of the decade, or even the game of the century. LSU was ranked no. 1 and Alabama was no. 2 of all Division 1 colleges. It was a defensive battle from start to finish. I don't remember a football score in recent years of being tied 6-6 at the end of regulation playing time. LSU won in overtime with a field goal 9-6.

Sad!

More than sad!

You should have seen the looks of all those Alabama fans. Tears were welling up in all their eyes.

Yet we should have, could have won the game. We missed four field goals. We had a pass take-a-way interception on the one yard line that surely would have produced a winning score.

There were too many missed opportunities. Sad. More than sad.

Yet, I wonder how many missed opportunities we all have that have greater consequence than a football game.

A missed opportunity to say a kind word.

A missed opportunity to make a life moment special.

A missed opportunity to make special times like birthdays, anniversaries, or other such events really big.

Alabama lost a shot to win a National Championship which can never be realized. The opportunity is gone. Forever. They had chances, but they let their opportunities slip through their fingers.

Here is the point. Don't waste or miss your opportunities today. Make it a point to make a phone call. Send a card. Go see a friend. Give a nice gift. Forgive. Forget. Go do it. Do it now. Otherwise you may forever miss your opportunity for blessing and goodness.

TECH ADDICTION?

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

I recently read an article that dwelt with tech addiction to smart phone, iPads, iPods, and computers. It listed many marks of possible addiction and I think I had one or two of them. I thought the only thing I was addicted to was coffee and Wanda and not in that order.

How do you know if you're addicted?

1. Waking up in the night to check computers, iPhones, or iPads.

2. Paying more attention to tech stuff than people in the room with you.

3. Thinking that an event hasn't happened until it is posted on the Internet.

4. Feeling that your missing something unless you're online.

5. Always grabbing for your phone when hearing a ring in a crowded room.

So, should I turn the iPhone and iPad off?

For me it is a work tool, but admittedly it has to be kept in proper place. People are more important than an email from a national campaign group or other spam. Tech stuff has not life or love or care. It is just mind occupying, time consuming geek tools. Am I a geek? Don't think so.

So the issue is balance and keeping life in order. It is doing work in a smart fashion, but not losing people in the background. I don't foresee getting rid of my tech stuff, but I do see reigning it is some.

Wanda will be glad to read this, and she will be gladder if I follow through. Have I moved from couch potato to computer potato?

Oh, one other thought.

Roll Tide! Beat LSU!

ONE ANOTHER

2011-11-02T07:00:00.001-04:00

Encouragement is a difference maker. A good work spoken can lift the spirit, release new hope, strengthen, and propel to a better future. Everyone needs encouragement. Kinds words shared at critical times can foil failure and compel the discouraged to become more than a conquerer.

How can we encourage? I am glad you asked. Here are a few ways.

1. Say thanks to someone doing a new or hard task.

2. Say thank you for jobs well done.

3. Smile.

4. Smooth over a failure of a friend or stranger.

5. Offer a cup of cool water to the heavy laden.

6. Be a peace maker.

7. Speak truth in love. Make that lots of love.

Paul wrote that we should encourage one another. He shared:

Serve one another-Gal. 5:13

Bear with one another-Eph 4:2

Forgive one another: Eph 4:32

Submit to one another: Eph 5:21

Comfort one another: I Thess 4:18

Edify one another: I Thess 5:11

We are further told to greet one another, be hospitable to one another, to consider one another, and to encourage one another. Over and over we are told to love one another.

The truth is we need one another. No one does well on an island alone. Everyone is important in God's KIngdom.

TRUNK OR TREAT

2011-10-31T07:00:00.002-04:00

Sunday night we had our first Trunk or Treat at church which takes the place of our annual Harvest Festival. It was a great night of candy, candy, candy!

What is Trunk or Treat?

Glad you asked.

It is a fun night of games, bouncy house, music, painted faces, hot dogs, and candy, candy, candy. Trunks of cars, vans, and motorcycles were decorated and kids got to Trick or Treat in trunks. I was amazed at the creativity and unusual presentation.

Everyone had a super time. I guess the kiddies will need stomach medication for all the candy, and moms and dads needed nerve medication from all the hyper kids.

See those three little kiddies? Those are triplets and their big sister. They are the only triplets I have ever had in a church where I was pastor. They are cut-ties!

Wanda and I decorated "Big Red". She wanted to make it a lady bug, but that was too female sounding for "Big Red". We need a little more masculinity happening. "Big Red" would not have wanted to be dressed in lady bug garb.

Trunk or Treat is a unique way to present an alternative to Halloween. I love it! Fun!

Can somebody say, "Candy, candy, candy!"

WELCOME HOME!

2011-10-28T07:49:00.007-04:00

Here are pictures from the landing of the Ocala Veteran’s Honor Flight to Washington D. C. Dad was one of over 100 veterans who made the day long flight to Washington and back to see the World War II Memorial. The landing ceremony was quite impressive as hundreds turned out to salute the veterans. I was proud of dad and all of the vets. It was a touching time to see men and women who served our Nation with such honor.

Salute Again!

I left late Thursday afternoon and rode "Big Red" to the Ocala Fl Airport and waited with all the other thankful families and friends and Americans for the Honor Flight. They landed to great celebration and fanfare. It made you proud to be an American.

They call World War II veterans "the greatest generation". I think there is something to that. We have so much to learn from this group, but not much time to capture their spirit and heart.

So, thanks again Dad, and welcome home!

THREE CHEERS FOR DAD!

2011-10-26T07:00:00.002-04:00

My father, Oscar Milton Dykes, served in the Navy in WWII. He served at the end of the war in Pensacola, Fl. Through the years I have heard his stories of Navy service and have been thankful and proud of him. He gave his time and service in an admirable manner.

Now he is planning a trip to Washington D.C., to visit the WWII Memorial. On Thursday, dad will be going with some 100+ other WWII veterans provided for them free as a honor for their service by the Ocala Veterans Honor Flight. They pay all the expenses for the veterans and give them a great day.

Salute!

I admire and appreciate Dad and all of our veterans for the sacrifices they made. We enjoy freedom because they gave. We all owe them a deep heart felt thanks for their efforts.

Some gave their lives and died on foreign soil. Some received war injuries. To all we say again, "Thank You" for a job well done.

I wish I could go with dad on this trip. It isn't possible, but I do want him and all of our servicemen and serviceladies to know that I am grateful to live in the greatest nation in the world. They helped make it the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Thanks, Dad. I love you and am very proud of you.

PASTORAL HOSPITAL VISITS

2011-10-24T07:01:00.002-04:00

Good pastors truly shepherd and care for the flocks. Pastors can't be everywhere doing everything for everyone, but good pastors watch over the sheep. Someone said that good pastors smell like sheep. I think there is some truth to that.

This morning I am making a couple of hospital calls. One member is having a heart cath with stints. Another member is old and losing health. Both members need prayer.

How does a pastor make a successful hospital visit?

1. Show up.

2. Show care.

2. Pray

3. Assist with needs.

4. Leave

Praying and leaving quickly generally make the visit go better especially when someone is very ill. Sick people need prayer and rest. They don't need to entertain the preacher or anyone else for that matter.

Jesus cared for the flock. He sought out the lost sheep. He gave His life for us. Can we do any less?

Oh, pastors don't know someone is sick and in the hospital if they aren't told. Catch the drift?

MORE ABOUT IPAD 2

2011-10-21T07:00:00.002-04:00

So, can you tell I am enjoying my new Ipad2?

It is amazing. I carry less books around. Don't need paper to write on anymore. Read the newspaper and can read magazines on it. It is a reminder. My banker. Weather report system. It is my camera, video, and photo system. It has all of my music.

it is my dictionary, thesaurus, map, and reference books holder.

I carry all my Bibles and sermon notes in it.

I used it to preach my last funeral sermon and Wed. night message.

I even read my blog on it.

All of its info is stored in my computer and Iphone too.

Just Amazing!

Wish I had gotten one before now.

No, I still haven't played any games with it yet.

THE TAIL OF THE DRAGON

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I rode "The Tail of the Dragon" in Deals Gap, NC. We rode it in the rain. That is 11 miles with 318 curves. Now before you say we are crazy, let me tell you that I had a certified trainer coaching us through the drive.

People ride from all over America to ride Dragon's Tail. Personally I don't think it is the toughest ride in the Smokies, but it is extremely challenging.

What is the point of riding Dragon's Tail?

For a biker, it is the challenge.

It is fun.

It is beautiful.

It gives bragging rites.

It is an amazing ride.

They have a "Tree of Shame" at the bottom where motorcycle parts are hung from fallen motorcycles. We didn't do it with thrill expectations riding at fast speeds. It was more a fun ride just enjoying the curves. I will admit the first part in hard rain wasn't the best, but we rode through that in a moment and then the ride was pleasant.

Riding in the Smokies is so different than in Florida. Here it is straight and boring. I love Florida, but I love riding in the Smokies more.

Isn't Wanda a trooper. She said she actually enjoyed riding Dragon's Tail. Now that is some wife

THREE CHEERS FOR EDNA

2011-10-17T07:00:00.003-04:00

Faithful church members are jewels in my book. I am talking about those who are there when the doors are open. I mean those who remain faithful to their church for years and do not leave. These kind love their pastors and don't shun any. They carry the load of church work. They are givers and not takers. Faithful church members are not fair weather folks. They don't merely ride on the band wagon. They love the Lord, their church, and the lost. They stick through thick and thin.

Here is on of those church members.

I am talking about Edna Smart in Elba, Alabama.

Wanda and I preached there at First Assembly a couple of weeks back. Edna was there when I was pastor in 1975. There are other wonderful church members that I could write about in that church.

Edna Smart has taught Sunday School for 50+ years and was chosen as the Sunday School Teacher of the Year in Alabama for the Assemblies of God. That is special. She is a shining light and a model to follow. She is not perfect. No one is perfect, but she has been faithful and loved the Lord, her church, and the lost.

There have been many times she could have quit or gone somewhere else to church. She could have quit attending period, but she didn't.

Thank God for God for faithful church members. Edna Smart has a great reward in heaven. I am sure.

MAKE FRIENDS

2011-10-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

Friendship keeps life from being lonely and boring. Friends stick with you, at least true friends do, through thick and thin. They don't run away when you aren't your best. They don't care if you're riding high or sinking low. They accept you regardless. That is a true friend.

Friendship is the result of being friendly. It happens when no records are kept.

I have been fortunate to enjoy having many friends and some for years. I wouldn't attempt to name them because I would surely leave someone off the list. Not good!

What do good friendships require?

Time. Trust. Truth. Tact.

Friendships that are genuine can be picked up even after long lapes of involvement. They don't fade or wash out.

What make for friendship?

A smile. A kind word. A few compliments. A thoughtful deed.

What makes for friendship?

Reaching out again. Being hard to be offended. Accepting the good, the bad, the ugly.

Jesus is my friend.

Wanda is my friend.

My family are all friends.

The list goes from there. I hope I can be a good friend. So many have been kind to me.

SAFE DRIVING

2011-10-12T07:00:00.002-04:00

Riding a motorcycle in the rain is challenging. No, sometimes it can be nerve racking. I ride for pleasure not for thrill, but sometimes you get caught in the rain. So what do you do? Slow down. Use caution. Pay attention to potential slick spots. No quick stops, turns, or sudden changes. Ride through curves at a constant speed. Give lots of room for cars, trucks, or any other vehicle. Pay attention. Or, just park it.

Safe riding isn't automatic. It requires focus.

Safe journeying in life also demands more attention. My heart breaks when I see personal life crashes. I have ministered to so many fallen individuals. It hurts when you see people hurt.

I have ridden "Big Red" in the rain some this week. God has kept me safe. I thank Him.

Now, may God help me to complete my life journey safely too.

That is all that matters.

Maybe I need to slow down. That is a key in safe riding. Maybe I should wait more on the Lord. He will guide if I will listen.

Wait on the Lord.

JUST JUICY FRUIT

2011-10-10T08:54:00.002-04:00

Love and faithfulness are fruits of the Spirit. Gal. 5:22 tells us that.

Solomon wrote that love and faithfulness should never depart from us. They bring favor with men and God.

Sunday I preached a message entitled "Juicy Fruit". We all need them. They bless and add joy. At the end of my message I gave everyone a pack of Juicy Fruit chewing gum. Now chew on this message. Let the sweetness of love and faithfulness bless you.

Just Juicy Fruit.

Blessings!

USING MY IPAD2

2011-10-07T07:00:00.001-04:00

I am having fun with my new IPad2. In fact, I am typing this post on my IPad. I have a wireless keypad that lets me do it rather easy. Man, am I cool or what?

In the early '80's I bought one of the first Apple computers. It had a floppy disk, but it was cool for the day. Not many folks had one back then. It basically was a word processor. It couldn't do much more.

Now with a MacBook, IPhone, IPad2, I am cooking with gas, as my father would say. What am I doing with it?

Research, reading, writing, journaling, bill paying, calendaring, and the list goes on.

I love reading with it. I don't have to carry a handful of books around everywhere. It is something!

It is interesting to learning how to use it. I check an IPad2 book for Dummies out of the library. That's me. I am a dummy, but I am learning.

What does John Maxwell say about leaders?

Leaders must be learners. So, I am a dummy, but everyday I am learning a little more.

I wonder what will be coming down the road? When I was in college, it was an old typewriter. Now, I am cool. I'm hip. Like man, I am with it.

Just a dummy having fun!

NEW TOYS?

2011-10-05T07:00:00.001-04:00

It isn't Christmas is it? I guess that is still three months away, but I feel like it is Christmas. Wanda bought me an Ipad for my birthday. Can you believe it. She said that I had bought her lots of nice jewelry and she wanted to do something nice for me.

She is quite a lady and is an incredible blessing to me.

So I am learning the new toy, err, I mean work tool. Actually I don't have any games on it or any of my computers. I think I should add some. Maybe it would keep me from being so dull. I could turn into a really hip guy.

Maybe this Ipad will help with that. My secretary came into my office and saw me working on my Ipad. She accused me of playing with my toy. Well, it is fun, but I wasn't playing I was working.

What will my Ipad do?

Too much for me to write here. It has a camera, Ipod, calender, contact list, GPS, internet and email, photos, movies, library, and the list goes on and on.

There are many changes in this world that I haven't enjoyed and personally just don't like. Computer technology is huge to me.

Thanks Wanda. You are a blessing to me. Love you!

GOOD CHURCH FOLKS

2011-10-03T09:15:00.003-04:00

I love church folks. "Folks" is a Southern term for people. I love people, but I really love church folks. They are the salt of the earth. They are light in a dark world. They are healers and helpers. They pick people up when they are down.

Church folks are not perfect, but they have God's love in their hearts. That love is what makes church folks incredibly special.

I see that love in action over and over. I have felt that love and have been blessed by it. Yes, church folks are difference makers. They help smooth over the rough spots in life, and give second, third, and infinitum chances.

Now maybe you have been hurt by a church "folk." That can happen too. I have been hurt by a few, but the greatest majority by far can be counted on the help you when your down.

After being in The Church all these years, I have decided I will stay in the Ship of Zion until I get to the others side. Jesus loved The Church. He died for it. The Church is close to the heart of God, and He wants us to treat it with love and proper care. My commitment is to love and care for The Church as a good shepherd.

An by the way, Church folks are good cooks. They make great banana puddings.

Don't get down on church folks. Let God's love fill your heart again for them if there is a hurt spot or disappointment.

I love good church folks. Hope you do too!

Be Blessed!

HOMECOMING!

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I are headed to Elba, Al, to preach their annual homecoming service. I was their pastor in the mid-'70's. That was a special time in my life. My second child, Jennifer, was born while we were there, and I led the Elba First congregation into a church relocation and building program. I have many fond memories there.

Coffee County is famous for peanuts. I love peanut butter, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and peanut butter pie. Delicious! Oh man, hope somebody makes a peanut butter pie for Sunday lunch. I know they will have banana pudding. Yum!

Seeing old friends and wonderful church people will be most special. They loved us and cared for us. I can't understand why they let a 26 year old kid be their pastor. Can you believe it?

While I was their pastor, God spoke into my heart that He would use me in writing. I developed a love and vision for sharing my thoughts on the printed page. Amazingly, beyond what I could imagine, God turned those dreams into reality. Vision and dreams propel us to a better end, if they are from the Lord.

I am looking forward to a great time in Elba.

ANOTHER BIRTHDAY COMING

2011-09-28T07:00:00.001-04:00

This Thursday, Sept. 29, I can officially file for Social Security. That doesn't seem possible. How did I get that old so quick? I won't be filing because I love what I do as a pastor and I am not ready to retire. I am re-fired and ready to preach the Word. I love what I do so filing for Social Security is not in the plan.

But I am getting older.

You may have heard another rumor. It is true.

Norma is as old as I am.

That's right. My little sister is my age.

I rib her a lot about that each year from the first part of August until the end of September. She just can't bear the fact that we're the same age for a month and a half, or at least the same numerical age. Teasing her is fun. Of course, she give it back to me when my birthday rolls around.

Birthdays are coming around faster every year for me. Whew! Here comes another one.

CHURCH TRANSITIONS

2011-09-26T07:00:00.003-04:00

Change can be hard when it comes to losing precious people you work with. Sunday I sadly had to announce the upcoming loss and transition of our wonderful music director, Carlos Santiago. He grew up in our church and graduated from Southeastern University in Lakeland, Fl, my alma mater.

Carlos came back home from college to work in our church and help his pastor. I will always be grateful for his faithful, gifted ministry. He is an extremely talented soloist. My can that young man sing! Close your eyes and open your ears and you can not tell if Carlos or Steve Green is singing. What a voice!

Now, it is time for Carlos to go and find his own way in another setting. We don't want to see him go, but I guess it is time. It is so sad for us, but at the same time there is a sense of pride, no, not pride but of thankfulness, for Carlos. He is one of us. He is from our DNA. He is a spiritual son.

Carlos will be with us a few weeks, and then change will come. God has new things for Carlos, and there are new things for our fellowship. I pray God's highest blessings on Carlos and our precious church family.

God does all things well. Our tomorrows are promised to be exciting, rewarding, and fruitful.

GOD CREATED FLOWERS

2011-09-23T07:00:00.003-04:00

Bright, alive colors get my attention. I love reds and yellows and oranges, and greens and blues and all of the rainbow's hew. Colors capture my eyes view. They stimulate and inspire. They decorate and make for better connection.

Nature's colors really get my attention. I love the colors of Spring and Fall. The deep greens of Summer catch my attention too. Even the grays of Winter make for an interesting change, though not as glorious.

I suppose that is why I love flowers in our back yard. When I read the Word and pray and meditate, the beauty of God's glory shines. They proclaim His radiant life. The flowers show His handiwork. He is alive. He is real. He is active in my world.

That is why I love what Wanda does in making our backyard glow. Her mother is here now and they have added new flowers and plants and colors. The reds and yellows, and oranges and whites beam. They inspire and motivate.

I love it.

God created flowers, but loving hands place them in prominent places.

ARE YOU THANKFUL?

2011-09-21T07:00:00.002-04:00

I know it is not Thanksgiving yet, but thanksgiving is not merely an annual event. It should be a moment by moment expression of our hearts. Thankfulness is the nutriment of positive living. It is soul food for the faithful.

In our staff meeting at church this week I took time for each staff member to go around the room and express in one sentence what they were thankful for in the lives of their fellow workers. When the time ended, there were smiles and a few tears of gratitude around the room. It was a faith building, love bonding moment. We all grew.

Some said to me, pastor I am thankful for you because:

1. you are steadfast.

2. you are my spiritual mentor.

3. you are here for us.

4. you are a good letter writer.

There were other comments, but I will tell you I felt better after that staff meeting. They all felt better too.

Don't wait to express to others why you are thankful to the Lord for them. Why not build them up today. Think on the positive values of others. Let God focus on their weaknesses. You help build up their strengths.

ENCOURAGING WORDS

2011-09-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Good words spoken in due season have power to change lives. Encouraging words are like rain on dry plants. They water the soul and give life to the dry heart. The give courage to the weary traveler.

Once when I was a young teenager, I missed the last question of a Bible state quiz championship playoff game that cost our team. We lost because my mind went blank. It was in front of hundreds of people. I was deflated and defeated.

After the quiz was over, I went to my seat in the audience. I was embarrassed and wanted to hide.

But an old minister, leaned over to me and spoke encouraging words and helped my wounded feelings and spirit.

I have never forgotten that moment of encouragement. It helped me try again. I got over my defeat and discouragement.

That is the power of an encouraging word.

EARLY RISER?

2011-09-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Getting up before the crack of dawn has never been my forte. I don't get up at the crack of noon either, but times are changing. Is it my age? Or body chemistry? Or a late change of life? Whatever the reason, I find myself late in late wanting to go to bed earlier and rise earlier.

For preachers, so much of our life ministry is in the evenings, and because of that, we need to be our best in the evening. That makes sense doesn't it. Also, does it really matter if work and life is done early or late?

Jesus rose early to pray. Of course He is the perfect model to follow, but He also prayed at night. Sometimes He prayed all night. I wonder if our Lord ever took an afternoon power nap?

Nevertheless, I am rising earlier and spending more time with the Lord and preparing for the events of the day. Yes, I am struggling some in the evening, but that's life.

Meeting the Lord early does make the day go better. Just a few moments with Him changes everything.

STEPS TO A GREAT DAY!

2011-09-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

Life should be lived intentionally, with purpose, with a sense of direction. Aimless living leads to aimless lives. If you don't know what your shooting for, then you are sure to miss it every time. That is not a good way to get anywhere fast.

Here are five points on how to have a great day:

1. Invite God to walk with you.

2. Begin with a thankfulness and choose to be positive.

3. Eat the frog first. Do the worst task or thing you must do first, everything after that is downhill.

4. Be flexible. Interruptions are bound to happen. Just know adjustments are certain.

5. Good choices lead to good days.

6. At the end of the day, give the good, the bad, the ugly to God. God will take it all and work it together for good, if we love Him and are doing His will.

I once read a quote that goes, "There is nothing that can happen today, that with God's help, I can't handle."

Good days and bad days are bound to occur. I choose to be proactive and believe for a great day!

ARE YOU LISTENING?

2011-09-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

How can God hear all of us at the same time? He must have really good hearing. The greater question is why would he care to listen? It is amazing!

Wanda has to pull me back into focus too often because of my getting distracted. There are so many things that vie for my attention and admittedly I struggle. That's not good.

Why don't we listen better to one another or more importantly to God? Again, we get distracted. We fail to realize the importance. We think what we are doing is more important than God or others. Not good again.

This past week I have made it a point to shut down distractions. Turn the TV off. I have made it a point to listen to God. Oh, I am making it a point to listen to Wanda too.

Listening to God and Wanda and those dear are all vitally important. I must give full attention. Good things happen when I do.

REMEMBERING 9/11

2011-09-09T07:00:00.001-04:00

I remember 9/11/01 as if it were yesterday. We will all remember where we were and what we were doing on 9/11 for the rest of our lives. I was at home and turned the TV on just as the first attack had occurred and was being reported. I never turn the TV on in the mornings, but I did that day. I thought I was watching a promo for a movie. It was surreal. It took a few moments to realize this was real, not a movie.

It is an unforgettable date. It is like Dec 7, Pearl Harbor Day or Nov 22, the day President Kennedy was shot. Those dates are indelible.

Once I ate dinner on the 109th floor of the World Trade Center. It was expensive and very high up in the air. I have flown on airplanes that didn’t get that high. I remember thinking that if terrorists were ever to knock down on of those buildings that it would be a world changing event, and it truly was.

But what do these unusual dates mean to us? What should our responses be? What should good Americans or good Christians do?

We can remember. Pay respects. Show honor. Give thanks. Reflect. Move to right action.

But our greatest need and greatest response or action should be prayer. America needs prayer. We are in a battle for our survival. It is a war against terrorist and a war against spiritual attacks against the very fabric of society. Neither war will be won without prayer.

This weekend, join with me in renewing efforts in prayer for our Nation. Let’s humble ourselves and pray. Let’s turn from sinful ways. God will hear and answer.

HELPING HANDS

2011-09-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

There is a difference between a handout and a helping hand. Handouts don't mean much and that don't change much. They often are appreciated, and they are quickly forgotten.

Helping hands pull desperate people out of impossible situations. They reach out with love and compassion because of previous mercy shown them. They see need and do something good. They cannot ignore. Refuse to forget and resist self-pity.

I have been a recipient of helping hands. I know that I would not be here unless they had been extended. They reached out sharing God's love, picked me up, comforted my soul, and gently pointed me in the right way.

Many hands make for light work. Now that is a true statement. Here is another one. Free is better than cheap, but that has nothing to do with this article.

There are many who are hurting and need a helping hand, or maybe an encouraging word, or another chance, or an extra bonus, or just a helping hand.

Offer a kind word to someone unsuspecting. It could make the total difference in their destiny.

PRAYER RETREAT

2011-09-05T07:00:00.001-04:00

I am spending this week in a prayer retreat. Wanda and I have focused on prayer and waiting on God. Prayer is vital in our spiritual walk. Not everything is shut down, but there isn't much happening this week but prayer.

Now tell me, what could be more important than talking to God?

Just think of it, God is willing to spend time with me?

Amazing!

Beyond incredible!

Too much to comprehend.

He cares to talk to me.

Try calling the Queen of England and see how long you can get her on the phone, but God is waiting to talk to me.

I need time alone with God.

ANOTHER MEETING

2011-09-02T07:00:00.001-04:00

It seems I spend most of my life in meetings of some kind. I love church meetings because I love to go to church. It is all those other meetings that get me.

Sometimes it is denominational preacher meetings that get tiring. Sometimes it is necessary staff or church ministry meetings that are trying. Sometimes is is counseling meetings, or even more impacting, meetings with families over the loss of a loved one.

Meetings! Meetings! Meetings!

Now don't get me wrong. I love my calling. It is filled with so many varied and wonderful opportunities. It is just getting ready over and over again for another meeting. It is the boring ones that really get me.

I once heard a preacher say that he wasn't too interested in going in the rapture. He heard that "there was going to be a meeting in the air" and he had been to enough meetings.

Now that is one meeting that I don't plan on missing. I am ready for that meeting. It will be the best!

ANOTHER QUICK TRIP

2011-08-31T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I headed South on Sunday afternoon for Steve Lambert"s Memorial Service. It was another quick trip that was shrouded with grief and pain. Losing a life-long dear friend and watching his precious wife, children, family, and loved ones mourn is hard and impacting.

Steve was too young to die. His parents wept unashamedly over their son's passing. Parents are not supposed to outlive their children. That is not the natural way.

His memorial service was a celebration of life. It did have lots of tears, and rightfully so, but it also had humor, laughter, and praise to God.

Steve lived with priority, passion, and purpose. He lived his life with a view of eternity in mind. His life choices reflected a believe system that honored God. His passions were lived in agreement with eternal purpose.

We had many commonalities, but one of the most important was and is our common commitment to our football team, The University of Alabama Football Team. That's what I'm talking about.

It was humorous to me that one of Steve's dear church members in quiet serious tones led us to repeat one of Steve's most important statements.

He said, "Roll Tide!"

Farewell dear friend. I will see you in heaven!

And one more thing:

ROLL TIDE ROLL!

STEVE IS IN HEAVEN!

2011-08-29T07:00:00.002-04:00

Steve Lambert has been my friend since I was a little boy in Montgomery, Alabama. We were in the same Sunday School , attended the same college, did a summer ministerial internship together, and served in the same denomination all of our ministry careers. That is a long time as friends.

Once he came home with me after church when we were little boys, we got into a BB gun fight with a neighbor boy. Oops!

Once when we were college buddies, we arrived late into the night at his parent's house. His mother called out into the night as we quietly walked down the hall to his bedroom, "Is that you, Steve?"

Steve responded, "No, it is the devil."

Once when I was discouraged and felt alone, he came and sat be me in a preacher's meeting. It lifted me.

We traveled in the college choir together. We preached for each other. We shared minister stories. He was a good friend. He will be missed.

He died from the same type brain tumor that Kristy died from, a GBM. But he is well now, and we will see him again.

Thanks, Steve, for being such a great friend to me. I am grateful.

Pray for his precious wife Ruth and their family. They all need God's grace and comfort.

FOOTBALL IS BACK!

2011-08-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

I love football. Does it show?

Last night I went to my first high school game of the year. I try to attend one or two games each season.

But football is changing. Injuries to players that are life threatening are making for rule changes. Head injuries and spine injuries and knee and joint injuries can last a life time.

A couple of years back I was at a high school game and watched as a player's leg was broken and turned totally backwards. It was awful.

So why do I enjoy these games? Well, it is a game. I like the competition. I like the hitting. I am a man, and this is a man's game.

So let the games begin.

And, Roll Tide!

JOLTED

2011-08-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

The phone rang in our office Tuesday morning as our staff was weekly in our meeting. My secretary went out of our meeting and answered as we continued, but I could hear what was clearly not good news. Someone had died. In a moment she returned and shared that a lady who had just started attending had passed in the night.

I had heard my secretary as she took the call answer over the phone, "But she was just here Sunday."

The lady had come to the altar for prayer and Wanda and I had prayed with her. She made a profession of faith and had just asked Jesus into her heart.

We sat there somewhat jolted and very saddened.

But that is part of church life. It is carrying for the needs, hurts, and losses of others. Certainly there are many wonderful times of joy and celebration, but there is loss too.

We were jolted. When the staff meeting ended I went to see the family and offered our condolences and prayer. May God give them all comfort and peace.

A RESTFUL WEEKEND

2011-08-22T07:00:00.001-04:00

Being home has some advantages. You get to sleep in your own bed. If your cook is a good one, then there is nothing like home cooking. And of course it is cheaper to stay at home.

I love to travel, and we have had some great time away recently, but this weekend was a nice time to enjoy being home. We rested, read, watched some TV, and just had a great time.

It was good being back at church. I hadn't preached on a Sunday for over two weeks. Now that is a rarity. I love preaching God's Word, and I have a wonderful congregation who love to listen. I am blessed.

Summer is ending. The kids are headed back to school. Now routines will be more normal.

Oh, did I mention that I enjoyed a nice Sunday afternoon nap? Wanda loves her Sunday naps. That helped top off a restful weekend at home.

A WORD ABOUT PRAYER

2011-08-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

It is true. Prayer changes things. It changes circumstances. It changes people. It can even change destinies.

Why pray?

I ran across this acrostic about why pray.

P--Power

R--Relationship

A--Answer

Y--You

Power to live.

Relationship with our Father.

Answer to life's needs.

You are the greatest benefactor.

Those are four really good reasons to pray.

Prayer is connection, confession, cleansing, communication, calling, and communion.

Prayer is the greatest privilege of mankind.

Let us pray.

VACATION IS OVER!

2011-08-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

Everyone needs rest and relaxation. Jesus took time off so it must be ok. Wanda and I throughly enjoyed our time away and break. We were busy the first week at General Council, but the second week was restful and relaxing. A couple of days were hectic, but overall that last week was just what I needed.

Now it is back to work.

I love what God has called me to do. My first day back was filled with checking on members who have need. Some are very sick. Some have had recent surgeries. Some have lost loved ones. My heart goes out to all of them.

Now, I am busy with planning and preparing.

Prayer is a priority. Oh, I did pray lots on my vacation, but now I am back into the saddle of ministry. It is a different gear.

There are so many opportunities and needs. I am excited about being home and involved with our church family.

God is good.

HOME AGAIN

2011-08-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I made it back home again. Actually we arrived home around midnight Thursday night, but we took off again Saturday afternoon to see mom and dad and be with them in church Sunday morning. I have not done that in years. We enjoyed being at Leesburg First Assembly and hearing Rick, Tricia's husband, preach. I sat with mom and dad and just enjoyed being in church.

As I was looking through some of the pictures from our vacation, these stood out. They were taken at the Grand Canyon at sunset. The canyon was spectacular as the sun went down. The colors was striking.

But the sunset isn't what caught my eye.

It was the American Flag flying at half-mast. Servicemen had died, and our Country mourned. I was enjoying a fantastic vacation in most beautiful part of our Nation because others were making the ultimate sacrifice.

Our flag made me take pause. It made me think again. Freedom is never free. Freedom always cost.

May God comfort the families of our fallen soldiers.

May God keep us free.

HAPPY TRAILS TO ARIZONA

2011-08-12T07:00:00.009-04:00

Our trip to Arizona ended with an overnight stay in Prescott and a ride on the Verde Canyon Railway in Clarksdale. We have had a fantastic time relaxing as well as enjoying day trips to see sights and sounds.

Wanda is a great traveling companion. She is game for most stuff and wants me to have a good time. Of course, that is give and take for both of us.

Prescott is the home of the very first rodeo and is a couple of hours north of Phoenix or a couple of hours south of the Grand Canyon. It is a small town with a town square and courthouse and saloons that surround it. They had an outdoor concert the night we were there that we enjoyed while eating pizza and then getting some ice cream. Sitting in the open air at a small town square while listening to a jazz band is about as American as it gets. We had a very relaxing evening soaking up the sounds and just taking it easy. What Fun!

Then on Wednesday morning we drove from Prescott over to Clarksdale which is about 40 miles. It is a fantastic ride up through Jerome which sits high above Clarksdale. Wow! The views there were incredible.

We boarded the Verde Canyon Train at 1 PM and headed up the canyon for a 4 hours ride. First class is the way to go as they serve snacks and deserts and cheese.

We met other ministers on our train who were vacationing like us. That added to our ride. Meeting new friends makes life more rewarding. Christians are wonderful people, and ministers are nice too!

The views of the Verde River and canyon captured our attention going and coming. Riding the train brought visions of what it must have been like to ride years ago. It was a nice way to end our time in Arizona.

A FRIEND ON THE TRAIL

2011-08-10T07:00:00.014-04:00

Tuesday morning Wanda and I got up extra early to watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon. It was SPECTACULAR! We were up at 5 AM and out on the south rim by 5:20. Around 5:48 or so, the sun was out in all of its glory, and it is really glorious shining over the colors of the Grand Canyon.

Then, after a quick breakfast, we headed down the canyon. Wanda went about .4 m with me, and then I hiked another mile + down the canyon. It takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours on this particular hike. To go all the way to the bottom takes about 6 hours one way.

Wanda was a trooper and headed down the trail with me. It was cool, thankfully, as we left around 7 AM. We had plenty of water and trail mix for salt so we could stay properly hydrated.

The scenes were just fantastic. It is one thing to look down at the canyon, but it is another to walk right down into the middle of it. The colors and size of the canyon stand out even more.

I wasn't sure how I would fare hiking down and back up, but I made it round trip in 2 hours and 15 minutes. Not bad for an old guy. I passed a lot of young bucks huffing and puffing. Maybe all my running paid of some.

They have mule trips which I would have loved to have taken. They go all the way to the bottom of the canyon and stay over night. Wanda wasn't so sure about staying over night, but maybe next time. After hiking for an hour or so, those mules looked like Cadillacs.

I met several nice folks along the way. Everyone needs someone to snap a group picture, and we did too. I also met a number of chipmunks. They are spunky little creatures, and quite selfish. They fight one another and the strongest wins. They beg, and you aren't suppose to feed them, but I snuck them a few peanuts.

It is so amazing all of God's creation. I am awed over and over again. The Grand Canyon made me realize even more how very big our God is.

ENJOYING SEDONA

2011-08-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I have throughly enjoyed the sights and beauty of Sedona, Az. The colors are brilliant. The reds are stunning. Pictures can't really do justice. At least my cheap little camera doesn't do justice.

We have watched sunsets and walked trails. Happy trials to us!

We have driven shorts little trips all around the area looking at the glory of God's creation. Can you really believe that some folks think that all this just happened. Not a chance.

There is just too much to see and too little time. We wanted to rent a Goldwing, but the temperature has been just too hot, especially down in Phoenix where we would have had to rent. The temps there were 113. It is cooler here in Sedona, thankfully.

Tomorrow we head to the Grand Canyon. We actually have a one night reservation at the El Tavar Lodge in the Grand Canyon. Can't wait to see the beauty and colors there.

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES?

2011-08-05T07:00:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful wife!

I love you, Wanda.

****

Months ago I booked our hotel here in Phoenix, Az, to stay at while attending our denominations biannual meeting. We're at the Hilton Suites Hotel. It is nice, and we're having a great visit.

On Wednesday morning I went down to do a run in their workout center. After working out, I headed back to our room, and saw a lady who I thought was one of my cousins. She was at a distance, and I couldn't call to her. She got on the elevator and headed upstairs.

I went on to my room, but in a few minutes was back downstairs on my way to the day's events. As I waited for the hotel shuttle, I asked the front desk if Beth Jasso was a guest. The lady said she was, but that Beth had just checked out.

I live in Florida. She lives in New Mexico.

I was attending a meeting in Phoenix.

She was doing business in Phoenix for the company she works for.

We both chose the same hotel.

I saw her, but missed getting to talk to her.

Small world.

What are the chances?

HOT IN ARIZONA

2011-08-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Florida heat can't compare to Arizona heat. When we walked out of the airport terminal Monday night to catch a ride to our hotel, the heat hit us in the face. Whew! It was hot. They say it is a dry heat. I thought it wouldn't be so bad. Man, was I ever wrong.

How hot is it?

I saw a dog chasing a cat, and they were both walking.

It was so hot that hell will never be an option for me. Well, hell never was an option.

It was so hot that Florida seems like the North Pole.

It is supposed to be 112 tomorrow. Have I made it to hell by mistake. No, just kidding.

We are having a great trip. Air-conditioning makes it work. Don't plan on spending much time outside.

HEADED TO PHOENIX

2011-08-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I leave today for 10 days in Arizona. First we go to the biannual General Council Meeting of the Assemblies of God. This will be the 20th General Council Meeting I have attended. It is full of business, church services, lunches, dinners, and fellowship. Wanda and I will be attending a leadership conference the first day and then many others meetings following.

Then we take a few days and head to Northern Arizona and the Grand Canyon. We plan on taking a train ride and doing some minor hiking.

I had planned on renting a Goldwing for our touring, but 100 + degree heat makes that very impractical. Wanda doesn't enjoy riding in the heat, and that is not my best idea of riding either.

It should be a super trip. I especially enjoy seeing fellow ministers from across America.

So it off to the scenic West. I am looking forward to seeing all the colors of the desert. Will post pictures so keep watching and reading.

TOP PRIORITY

2011-07-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

First things should be kept first. Our highest priorities shouldn't change often. So what is top priority to me?

Here is the list:

1. God and doing His will.

2. Wanda.

3. Our children and grands and family.

4. His call on my life for ministry.

5. Friends.

I enjoy many types of activities especially riding "Big Red" and sports. Traveling, reading, good movies, and good food are all high on my list too.

But every morning I begin with a few moments with the Lord and then He goes with me throughout my day.

Those are my priorities. I don't see them changing.

TAPS

2011-07-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Tuesday I did a grave side service at the National Cemetery for one of our church members, who was a veteran. That is always a solemn service with honors and respect. I am always emotionally charged at these funeral services.

After saying a few words and then praying, they play taps. People silently weep. Strong men are misty eyed. Little children quietly ask their moms what is happening. It is a moment of awe.

They only allow 30 minutes at the National Cemetery for services including driving in and parking, unloading, a brief service with honors, and then leaving. It is quick. Soo many veterans are passing that they have to bury them at a fast pace.

As I drove in and left, you could see white markers lined up perfectly straight in every direction. The grave markers are distinctively laid out in perfect lines from all angles with dignity and awe.

Thank God for veterans who have served our Country. Thank God for the freedoms they have won and guarded for us. I salute those who have lived and died for our liberty.

SAD DAYS FOR AMERICA

2011-07-25T07:00:00.002-04:00

I like to be upbeat, but sometimes that isn't easy.

I love America. We live in a great Nation. Yet, sad days are before us.

How did we get to a point where America's leaders would celebrate immorality and sin? How did we come to a place where good would be called evil and evil would be called good? When and how did we lose our moral compass?

My stomach churns when I read of national leaders and governors and legislatures working to approve and force same sex marriage. Those who dare speak truth are made as bigots and intolerants. The present leaders and media bias does not allow a honest discussion of morality.

Yet, for more hundreds of years our forefathers values worked. What has changed? Why change now? A marriage has always been defined as a union between a man and a women. Why should that change now? Who all of a sudden has come up with a higher wisdom than generations of our forefathers before us?

Let me say that homosexuals should not be hated or scorned, but neither should their behavior be accepted or normalized.

Here is the deal.

Society has a moral duty to set moral standards, and we do. The questions is whose standards do we chose to follow? Someone's standards and values will prevail.

Why not chose standards that have worked from the beginning of mankind? Why not chose standards given by God's Word?

Say what you will, but children need a mother and a father. They do not need men loving on men and women loving on women as a model to confuse them or point them in a wrong direction. We do not allow many forms of behavior because again society has a duty and responsibility to set acceptable behavior. One cannot do just anything one choses to do publicly, and rightfully so.

So, may God send a revival of righteousness in our Land. May God give us a holy shaking to awaken our Nation. It is time. Sad days of sin are here, but truth sets us free. May God give our land a moral cleansing and healing. May God give us bold, righteous leaders who are not afraid to stand for righteousness and truth.

May God send a revival to our churches, and homes, and families.

Or more sad days will come.

A HARD DAY

2011-07-21T10:18:00.003-04:00

Normally I post on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, but today is different.

***

July 21 will always be a hard day for me. This morning the phone rang around 6 AM. I was already awake, but knew such an early call probably wasn't good news. It wasn't.

The person on the end of the line said, "He's gone. He is in heaven."

Her precious spouse had just passed. That's hard.

I hung the phone up and said to Wanda, "I will never forget the day he died."

Today three years ago the first love of my life went to heaven. Anniversaries of the deaths of those close are always hard. There is no way around it.

Yet, when I got to my office this morning, there was a precious note from Wanda, my precious second love. She wrote an email of comfort, grace, and encouragement. Wow! What a gift from God. The hurt lessoned. The pain was soothed.

How can we honor Kristy?

By finishing our races to win Christ strong. By not looking back. By going forward. By being our best for Jesus. That is how Kristy did it.

She is well in heaven. Today, I press again for the prize of my high calling in Christ Jesus. Kristy won. By His grace, I will win too!

LOVE AND RESPECT

2011-07-20T07:00:00.002-04:00

Life goes better where there is love and respect. Marriage goes better too when love and respect are mutually given. Both virtues are found in the grace of God. When Jesus is alive in our hearts these elements flow freely.

Men need the respect and women need the love. Of course both can use a healthy dose of both. Now what does that mean? Well, when you love then you will show respect, and when you respect then you will show love. So both men and women need both love and respect. It is just than men's egos need more respect and women's emotions need more love.

Both love and respect flow from the heart of God. His love affects our speech, actions, life styles, and destiny.

Here is the deal. If you show respect to your man then you are more likely to receive tenderness and love, and if you show tenderness and love to your lady then you are more likely to receive the respect.

It is a law. The law is called sowing and reaping. It is God's law. It is a law of life.

So don't worry about what you are receiving. Just give attention to what you are giving. The rest will just work out.

CHALLENGES

2011-07-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

Life is full of challenges. Some are expected while others are not. It is true for all us.

I had planned on posting today sharing about Wanda and my love story, but I am still working on it. It will be a while before I do that.

Pastors face all kinds of challenges in assisting their parishioners. Those challenges come in many forms. Some are heart rending and hurt.

Sunday there were several challenges which I faced. It hurts when you see dear sweet people get bad news, or struggle with children, or face financial distress. Yet, over and over I have felt the loving hand of our Lord reach down and help. He is faithful.

It is the Lord who sees us through the trials of life. It is the Lord who makes a way. When we call out to God, He hears and He answers. He makes a way.

WRITING MY (OUR) STORY

2011-07-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Wanda and I have a wonderful story of love and grace. We both experienced happiness and love in our first marriages, and now God has brought us together to complete our life's journeys. I have long felt that I should write my story and our story in book form, but parts of my story were still to painful for me to bear. Wanda has encouraged me to begin with writing our story first and then go back to the story of our first mates, and specifically Kristy and me.

I had thought I would write before now, and I tried several times. It was too painful. I couldn't do it. I really don't know how I wrote all those blogs on Kristy's blog telling her story and how story day by day as it unfolded. Somehow I did, but I don't know how.

Now I am feeling compelled to move ahead in writing our story. I have begun and will post some of it on this blog. I feel Wanda and I both have unique stories of love and second love that could encourage and inspire others. We have been told this over and over.

So, look for new posts soon that will share our stories of loss, pain, shock, grief, and new joy, hope, love, life, fulfillment, future, and destiny.

It isn't an easy story, but it is a blessed story. It is a story of God's recovery and blessing. It is our story.

DUMB STUFF

2011-07-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

Have you every done anything dumb? I mean really dumb?

I saw a portion of a TV program recently that offered reports on dumb things kids are doing today that are extreme and extremely dangerous. They showed young people attempting to jumb over moving cars, or jump off of high bridges, or racing motorcycles on just one wheel, or fighting and taking extreme punches. All of it was dumb.

Why? What is the point?

Are young people so bored today that they don't have anything better to do?

I will admit when I was a boy we had BB gun fights. One time I slid off my top bunk in my bedroom on my head to see of I could do it. Now that was really dumb.

The dumbest thing in the world to me is to play chicken with eternity. Why would anyone risk their soul to an eternity in hell? I don't fathom. Yet, Jesus has provided the way of escape. He has paid our debt of sin. He offers salvation freely to those who will believe and follow Him.

Any other way seems dumb to me. It seems even dumber than dumb stuff kids do today.

A SCARY MOMENT

2011-07-11T07:00:00.005-04:00

Scary moments are not good. Church was over yesterday, and I was greeting folks as they left out the front door. A worried mother exclaimed, "My son is gone!"

She was new so I didn't know her or her son. He was four.

"He was with his grandmother, and now he is gone," she said.

"When did you last see him," I asked.

"Just a moment ago, and now he is gone," she responded.

We quickly had people looking everywhere. Our sanctuary is large and we have classrooms that surround it. There are lots of places a little one could be. We frantically looked. He wasn't to be found. We looked with even more concern. The police were called.

We have security that watch inside and outside our facilities, but this little one had gotten away from his family and couldn't be found.

More concern.

Some prayed.

Others looked again.

The mom ran back out to the car where she had already checked for him, and............

there he was. Hiding....

He had gotten some candy from a family member's purse and wanted to eat it before he was caught. He ran out to the car and hid.

Oh my! Were we relieved. The boy was frightened. The mom was thankful, shaken, and upset.

But then I thought about what the Lord taught about being lost.

A lost coin.

A lost sheep.

A lost son.

A lost soul.

I will search with greater passion so that none will be lost.

DID SHE DO IT?

2011-07-08T07:00:00.001-04:00

Most of America has been on edge this week with the conclusion of the Casey Anthony trial in Orlando, FL, and the not guilty verdict. Did she do it? The jurors didn't feel there was proof enough to convict so she goes free. Was justice served? Why wasn't she found guilty?

Reportedly the jurors did not think she was innocent, but they did not have enough evidence to convict. In that sense, justice was served. But little Caylee is still dead, and the killer has not been brought to justice.

To some, it seems that Casey Anthony just got off, but did she? Will she get by her with horrible lies and wickedness?

No, she hasn't gotten by anything. There is a higher court of opinion that will rule in this matter. And that court does not have a problem with hidden evidence or lies. This court has an all seeing and all knowing Judge. There will no need to swear to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth in this court. This court has all the evidence and facts. No one can refute what this court knows.

It is the last and Great Judgement before God. Every deed and act will be judged. No one will get by with murder or crime there.

Oh, there is one exception. It is the grace exception.

Grace and mercy will be given to those who accept the payment for their crimes paid by Christ on The Cross. Just think of it. Just think of it. No matter what crimes or sins anyone has ever committed, they will be found NOT GUILTY if they have accepted the Grace of Calvary.

Praise God!

My sins are gone!

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

2011-07-06T07:00:00.001-04:00

Learning is a lifetime challenge. The moment a person quits learning or loses the desire to learn, they are dead. Leaders must be learners. Knowledge is power. Wisdom is the power to aptly or rightly apply knowledge. God is the source of both.

Young and old must be fact gathers. Facts help keep the wheels of life rolling the right way. They make the road of life smoother and easier to tolerate.

I cannot tell you the number of times I have wanted to kick myself after I learned an easier, more productive way of doing a task.

God has given us brains. He wrapped a skull around those brains, and I believe God expects us to use those brains. Go figure.

I read an article in the news this week about a motorcyclist who was riding his bike in New York State as part of a protest against a state law requiring motorcyclist to wear helmets. He didn't like the law and was riding in protest without a helmet. Here is the problem. He wrecked his bike and fell on his head and the blow killed him.

Go figure?

His poor application of knowledge in a very unwise way cost his life.

Sad!

Yet, in even more eternally impacting life choices, people make decisions that determine their eternal destiny. Their unwillingness to receive the knowledge of God into their lives leads to a life-time and eternity of sorrow and loss.

The knowledge of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom.

Knowledge is power.

The knowledge of the Lord makes one eternally wise.

SIX LITTLE BIRDIES

2011-07-04T07:00:00.004-04:00

Recently we had six of our seven grandchildren here in our home for several days. Now that will keep a Nana busy! Yes, she was!

They are loads of fun, and busy, busy, busy.

I took all six of them to the Hands On Museum, and of course we took them to the beach. No, there were no trips to the zoo, zoo, zoo this time. Maybe another day.

Wanda decided that she wanted to buy bird houses and let the grands all paint one. I saw paint everywhere, but she prevailed anyhow. They loved it. Each one's little personality came across in their paintings. There was a little paint on the floor and one wall, but nothing was hurt. And, they all had a ball.

Now we have six little bird houses in our back yard, and there will be one more bird house to be painted a little this summer.

When we look out the back window, there all the little birdies' houses. I don't know if they'll ever house birdies, but they will remind us of them and a painting adventure with Nana.

Isn't Wanda special. I love her.

Six little birdies: Alex, Nic, Cole, Paige, Claudia, and Lorenzo. One little birdie hasn't flown in yet, but he will. Alex Clark will make it seven. Then there will be seven little bird houses for seven little birdies. Now they are special!

Cole and Paige are back up for a short visit with their mom and dad. They are the first to see the little bird houses in the back yard.

LIVE FOR TODAY

2011-07-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

I went to a funeral of a minister friend this past week. He died unexpectedly from a massive heart attack. Needless to say his family was stunned. His children are grown, but they are all in shock.

No one knew it was coming. The day of his death there wasn't a clue. It just happened, and all their worlds changed. It will never be the same ever again for any of them.

I understand in part. Wanda and I deal with the loss of both of our first spouses. Jim died similarly has my minister friend, without warning. Kristy died after 9 months of illness. We got to say our good-byes, but it came with a price.

What is the point?

Live for today. Live with no regrets. Live to bless.

You do not know what the day will bring.

SUMMER RAINS

2011-06-29T10:54:00.003-04:00

I love summer rains. They make things grow. They clean the air. Green grass gets greener. Flowers brighten. Dust washes away. Yards glow. Forests sparkle.

Spiritual rains do similar works. They water the soul. They refresh and cleanse. They renew for growth. They clean the heart.

Dry times come, but the rains come again.

God has promised rain. He promised the rain of the Holy Spirit.

The promise is to all who are hungry and thirsting. The promise is for the dry soul.

So open your soul. Look to the rain. Let it rain. Let it rain. Let it rain.

Right now. Let it rain.

FEEDING THE FLOCK

2011-06-27T09:46:00.003-04:00

God has called me to preach and offer spiritual care as a pastor. I love it, and I am thankful for His call on my life. My job has many and varied dynamics and responsibilities. Today I will spend time praying, studying, managing, ministering, etc. It is daily.

One aspect that is incredibly fulfilling is preaching His Word and feeding the flock. Now, it should be noted that people don't do well physically if they only eat one or two times a week, and neither do people do well spiritually if they only eat once or twice a week at church. We need spiritual food daily so people do have a personal responsibility to feed themselves.

Yet, pastors are to preach The Word and feed the flock.

How do you do it?

I try to hear from God, study His Word, feed my soul, and prayerfully prepare and preach The Word. I have actually had one person say that a sermon I had preached years ago that the sermon was the best they had ever heard, and I have had another person say that the same sermon was the worse sermon they had ever heard.

Go figure? I guess the answer is found in need and maybe in heart. We we need specific words from a message then it has personal and maybe profound meaning. It we don't have a heart with good soil ready to receive then the Word may never take root.

Yesterday I preached from James 5 and my topic was "The Power of Patience." I told the people that good things happen to people who wait and endure. I pray it was a blessing. Several told me that they needed to hear that message. Thankfully, no one told me it was the worse sermon they had ever heard.

Today I am preparing other sermons for the week to preach. May God help me to be a faithful pastor and feed the flock well.

A VISIT TO FRIENDSHIP FOUNTAIN

2011-06-24T07:00:00.003-04:00

Jacksonville has some "cool" things to do and "cool" places to go. I have always enjoyed the St. Johns River walk downtown. Eating at The Landing is a nice thing to do too. There is something relaxing about water and eating a meal on the river.

Now there is an added attraction since the city has restored Friendship Fountain.

The fountain and park were designed by Jacksonville architect Taylor Hardwick in 1963 and opened in 1965. The fountain's three pumps could push 17,000 gallons of water per minute up to ten stories in height. Friendship Fountain remained one of Jacksonville's signature attractions through the 20th century, but severe corrosion and deterioration to the equipment resulted in periodic closures in the 2000s. The city just completed a $3.2 million renovation to the fountain and the surrounding park.

Wednesday night after church, Wanda and I took the grands and Julie and Jennifer done to see the newly restored fountain. It is fantastic and worth the time to go.

It has spectacular lights and music and many different variations of water spray. It is soothing and captivating. We all enjoyed as you can see.

And it is free!

Did you know that free is better than cheap?

Now, I am not cheap, but free entertainment gets my attention.

And the grands are the grandest entertainment.

Watch the video below and enjoy!

A HOUSE FULL

2011-06-22T07:00:00.008-04:00

We have six of our seven grandchildren here in our house for the week. All are 11 years old or younger. Now that is a busy house with busy kiddies.

Wanda is one loving Nana. They all love her dearly as she tries to keep the ship upright and right. How many times has she gone to the grocery store? How many towels and clothes have been washed? How many dishwasher loads have been unloaded? The list goes on.

This is an unusual opportunity for us. One grandson is not here. I wish all could have been together. I guess that is a hard thing to do.

They are good kiddies with good hearts. They soak everything in and push to do more and more. Life is full.

I took all six by myself to the hands-on museum Monday afternoon. The car was full. They had a ball, and I had the best of time watching our grands enjoy themselves. It gave Nana a break as well as Julie and Jennifer.

Summer is the time for grands. They are just that. GRAND!

A HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

2011-06-20T07:00:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I enjoyed a wonderful Father's Day.

The girls, Julie and Jennifer, are here along with their kiddies. They were all in church with me. That is special.

Wanda cooked a delicious lunch with a fabulous chocolate pie. Wow! Fantastic!

The only thing that could have made it better would have bee to see my own father too. I did wish him a Happy Father's Day by phone. I am so blessed to have wonderful parents who have incredible faith and love.

I preached a message for Father's and pray my words will help dad's to lead their families in the knowledge of the Lord. At the end of the day, that is all that matters.

Someone said the children love their moms but they follow their dads. I think there is some truth there. I pray my children will see Jesus in me and want to serve Him with all their hearts.

FAMILY TIME

2011-06-17T07:00:00.001-04:00

Jennifer is home with her kiddies, Claudia and Lorenzo, and we are having a ball with them and Julie and her boys, Alex and Nic. We headed to the Smokies the beginning of this week and have enjoyed being with family. We are having a ball!

We have gone white water rafting, horse-back riding, mountain trail riding, swimming at the lake, hiking, playing in the streams, and eating, eating, eating! I didn't do all of this, but I have eaten at every appointed meal-time.

The most special time has been the spiritual time. We have sung worship songs, read the Bible, prayed together, and generally had church. It has been fantastic. I have especially been thrilled to watch my daughters and grands worship God and read the Bible and pray together.

We have seen God answer so many prayers in our family. God is a prayer answering God.

Thursday we hiked in the Joyce Kilmer Forrest. Alex, my grandson, lost his newly-made sling shot somewhere on the trail. He asked if I would backtrack with him to find it. We looked and looked. Finally he found it.

He told me, " Papa, I prayed that the Lord would help me find it. I turned my headed and there is was."

God is a prayer answering God. It thrilled me that Alex would pray over this need, and that it gave God credit for helping him find his sling-shot.

Thank God for a prayer believing, prayer practicing family.

Prayer works.

God makes family time fantastic!

THE GLORY OF GOD

2011-06-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

I see His glory.

It is all around. Look around. Look up. Praise Him. He is alive. Listen to His glory. Do you hear a little bird? Do you see the sun's rays? Does the moon glimmer in your night?

His glory speaks in all of His creation.

His glory is manifest.

Just listen. Just look.

He is real.