September 12, 13, 14, etc.

As horrible and terrible as the events of September 11, 2001. There are other tragedies that seem to go unnoticed. On September 11, 2001 over 3,000 innocent Americans were killed. But on September 12, 2001 over 3,000 more innocent Americans were killed, and again on the Sept. 13 and again on every day since then.

WHAT! Where are the news reporters, where is the public outrage? Who were these people? Where did this happen?

The answer is, there is no outcry, the press doesn't care. These people were unborn children killed before they had a chance to live. But we don't call it first degree murder, we call it Abortion, really we don't even call it that. We call it "choice".

It's not a political topic, or even a social topic. It's a crime. Does life begin at birth or conception? DUH! Ask a pregnant mother if the child in her womb that is kicking the daylights out of her is alive! It's a woman's right to choose what happens to her body. YOU'RE RIGHT! But the choice happens when she chooses to have unprotected sex! Not after the fact! What about rape and incest you ask? In 2000 less than 1% of abortions claimed rape or incest as the reason to abort the pregnancy.

In a study conducted in 1998 the choices abortion was chosen included 25.5% want to postpone childbearing, 21.3% cannot afford a baby, 14.1% has relationship problem or partner does not want pregnancy, 12.2% too young; parent(s) or other(s) object to pregnancy, 10.8% having a child will disrupt education or job, 7.9% want no (more) children, 3.3% risk to fetal health, 2.8% risk to maternal health, 2.1% other.

I am so pleased that the Pro-Life platform has seemingly gained some ground in the current political arena. It is out of control and I'm afraid God's patience with this abomination is thinning. Americans...Be responsible! All of us...MEN AND WOMEN!

Oh by the way, since when is the opposite of Pro-Life - Pro-Choice? By all other standards the opposite of Pro-life is Pro-death. Think about it! Please...think about it!!!

Remembering

I was just a kid when Kennedy was shot. I remember my mother waking me up to see Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon. I remember when Reagan was shot, when Elvis died, and when John Lennon was shot. I also remember when John Denver's plane when down. But no memory is emblazoned so clearly in my mind as September 11, 2001.

I was on my way to the church office and needed to stop for a haircut (no comments from the peanut gallery!). I was listening to the radio when the first plane hit and assumed, I guess like most of America, that this was a very tragic accident. Then while sitting in the barber's chair another patron came in and announced the second plane had hit. I knew then that this was no accident, but who...and why? Then the plane hit the Pentagon, then another crashed into a field in Pennsylvania!?!

I went to the office and we hooked up a television to watch the coverage. I remember the whole office paralyzed, sitting watching helplessly, hopelessly as the towers fell. The first attack on America soil in...oh my...the devastation, the loss of life, the fear.

I will never forget that day. I will never forget the billows of smoke, the video of people leaping to their deaths from the towers, the towers themselves crumbling into piles of rubble, not knowing how many innocent victims were still in the buildings. Then the stories of heroism. The policemen and firemen who saved lives, many at the loss of their own.

I can remember the anger, the need for revenge...retribution. I'm still angry. I still want those who planned and carried out this cowardly terrorist attack on innocent people including women and children brought to justice...Old Testament justice.

No, I am not a lover of war. But I also know that war is sometimes necessary. Yes, it is expensive, not only financially but more importantly in the lives of the soldiers who are called to fight the wars.

I support our President, I support the soldiers who have gone, who are there, and who are going. Not only to Afghanistan, but to Iraq as well. I believe there were weapons of mass destruction there, but the American press gave Saddam Hussein plenty of time to move them. Even the Democrats who are discrediting our President for the invasion of Iraq knew they were there (at least they did while Clinton was president).

But I don't want to go off on a political tangent. I want Bin Laden and everyone else who had a part in 9-11. I remember. As such, I will continue to remember and will remember why our men and women are fighting this war and I will support them. I will never forget and hope you won't either.

A wise man once said, "those who choose to forget history are destined to repeat it."

May it never be so and may God bless America and protect her forces and her allies as they fight the hidden enemies of freedom and right.

Until we meet again...

Freshness

Being a southern boy I love iced tea, but I like it fresh (and sweet). Being a southern boy that is a bit too large I've sacrificed and made the switch to artificial sweetener. BUT, I can't find a substitute for fresh. Have you tried tea concentrate, YUCK! Tea is made to be enjoyed within the day it is made!

Do you like stale chips? Neither corn chips nor potato chips are good after they've become stale. Bread and other baked goods are yummy when they are fresh, but not so yummy after they've become stale.

Am I just hungry or do I have a point? Well, it's Monday morning and I love new beginnings. Are you going to have a good week? "Well it depends", you say. You're right, it does. It depends on how we choose to react to what the days bring. If we see our challenges as opportunities and if we choose to trust God to handle the big things and not fret then possibilities for joy become a lot greater.

I'm in the mood for a fresh week, a brand new day, a real opportunity to enjoy some awesome things. How 'bout you? Then decide!!!

Check the 'tude dude

Do you have days where you just really don’t seem to be having a good time? I do, I’m afraid that I might even be prone to depression from time to time. The pressures of life, the busyness of work, the expenses of raising a family (especially when one of them is in college!), and then the added “yuck” of recovering from a broken leg—all can converge to just suck the life or at least the joy out of life…if we let it.

One morning this week I was “enjoying” attending my own little pity party and dog-gone-it if the Lord didn’t send me a little sump’n-sump’n to yank me back where I needed to be. I almost always listen to K-Love Christian radio. (I believe the human brain is like a computer, you only get out what you put in. GIGO-garbage in, garbage out) Anyway, a song came on that I have heard a million times and always liked but this time it hit me like a ton of bricks. Philips, Craig and Dean’s “I am a friend of God” started in, “Who am I that you are thinking of me, that You listen when I call.” Continuing to remind me that the God of the universe loves me, want’s to hear from me, and calls me His friend. That knowledge will ruin a perfectly good pity party. No the problems don’t go away, but a least you know that God is there with you, loving you, caring about the trash you’re dealing with, and really wanting to help.

My question is, how can I feel so relieved and loved, and then a day or sometimes even a few hours later, be back in the doldrums or under the grip of depression? Think about it, the devil is a roaring lion, roaming around, looking to devour or destroy us. What’s better for him than no Christian at all?--a sour, bitter Christian misrepresenting the Christ who saved them. Heaven forbid that I should send a message or represent that Christ hasn’t fulfilled all my needs and blessed me exceeding abundantly more than I deserve.

There it is…whenever you are feeling low, count your blessings nice and slow!

Go on poetry man!

I’m feeling better already…how ‘bout you?

Birthdays, blessings and brethren

So yeah, today is my birthday. 47 years I've inhabited this orb. God has been good to me. I hate to admit it but sometimes I have to be reminded of that important fact.

I felt a little aged this morning as the first things I reached for upon achieving consciousness were my glasses and my crutches, but then I got a call from my mother who I am very blessed to still have with me and who, along with my father, is in very good health. Thank you Lord!

***

I get to preach the message at church this evening, but I know the mission report from the Teen Mission Trip will go long and I won't have that much time, but hey I get to preach and everyone loves a short sermon!

***

Have you been watching the Olympics? I think there is a new malady affecting many of us. We stay up late cheering for Michael Phelps and the rest of the Americans and by the time the competitions are over it's very late, but we are all keyed up from the thrill and we don't sleep well or very long and morning comes way too early! Now I know why the Olympics only happen every 4 years!

But isn't it amazing to look at the different people, the nationalities, the ethnicities? People from different countries look different (for the most part). One of the questions I will ask tonight in my sermon is "What does a Christian look like?"

As one blessed to have been able to travel to some interesting places, I have seen Mexican and Mayan Christians singing about Jesus at the top of their lungs. I have seen Romanian believers love one another with a love that could only come from Christ. I have wonderful friends who share some wonderful Christian friendships with African, Russian, Chinese, Mongolian and many other "types" of believers. But aren't we are all united in Christ?

Along that line, what does real worship sound like? What is appropriate dress for church? Isn't it true that most of what happens on Sunday morning is cultural? I'm not saying that's wrong or bad, but just that we need to be aware and not allow ourselves to become judgmental.

God is God alone, but His children are different and special and He loves each one of them just like and just as much as He loves you and me. So how do you suppose He wants us to treat our brothers and sisters? Even if they are different!

Thank you Father for being a big God, not only global and able to love everyone in a way they can understand and find comfort in, but exceeding abundantly more than we ask or think. If you can love us in spite of our obvious flaws and downfalls, how can we not love one another. Love through me Father when I don't have the capacity in myself. Let me be a vessel through which Your love can flow.

Until next time...

Two Weekends--Two Weddings

Over the last couple of weekends I have had the opportunity to officiate at two weddings.

One a lovely outdoor ceremony at the Old Mill for Hoot Marlar and Dana Gaines. They publish the ThunderRoads Magazine for which I write a monthly PGR related article. Although it was hot, the setting was beautiful and these two young folks made a beautiful couple. I hope for them a long happy life together.

This weekend (today as a matter of fact) I had a special blessing to officiate at a wedding between an 82 year old man and an 80 year old woman. They were high school sweethearts who had been engaged over 60 years ago then WWII broke out and Bill joined the Navy. The plan was for him to serve his 4 years then come back home and get married. Things didn't work out exactly the way they planned it and Bill re-upped and stayed in the Navy over 20 years. They both married others and remained faithful to their spouses for 50 and 54 years respectively.

After Bill's wife passed away, he decided he would look up Mrs. Alice and see how she was doing. She didn't recognize him at first but it didn't take long for the old fire to rekindle.

It was such a precious ceremony. After they repeated their vows and I said a prayer they wanted "their song" played. So at just the right time Buck Owen's started in with "Together Again", there wasn't a dry eye in the house.

Love is such a wonderful thing. God knew just what He was doing when he instituted marriage. Everyone loves a wedding, but unfortunately most marriages don't make it. Why is that? Do we forget what we promised? Do we get bored? Did we just not know what we were getting into?

Maybe all of the above is true, but I rather think the biggest problem in marriage is simply selfishness. We forget that there is someone else we should be considering and we have forgotten that it is more blessed to give than receive.

I think we married folks need to rekindle the sweetness and kindness of our early married lives and not let things get stale. Husbands...love your wives. Thanks in the book!

Have a great day...now go hug someone!

From the Bogg

The old expression, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is false! This old dog is learning a great deal about a great many things (mainly myself) over these past couple of weeks.

I guess one of the more painful lessons I am learning is that when something needs to be rested, rest it! Otherwise something else on the chain will become highly affected.

Let me explain, from previous posts you know that I have broken my ankle and am sporting a lovely green fiberglass cast. Luckily (not really) my orthopedist said I could put a little weight on my foot. (Which of course I assumed to mean that I could walk around as normal as possible.) This is not what he meant! For nearly two weeks I’ve been involved in practically everything I involved myself in before the broken bone, except mowing the lawn and other obvious no-no’s. Big mistake, I have now tweaked my knee to the point that it has become sore to the touch and very painful to move. I have been treating it with ice and ointments but I knew the best thing to do was to stay off of it.

So I stayed with my plan to go to Kidz Kamp at Bogg Springs (a lovely spot just below Mena in a secluded valley that will be home to some 800 campers, staffers, and adults in just a few hours.) I came out Saturday morning with the teens from our church for staffer training weekend. My plan is to stay away from most of the activity and “hide” in the “motel” a 4-room building with a couch, a double bed, a dresser, a refrigerator, a sink, shower, and toilet. Luxury accommodations, no…adequate, yes.

It’s Sunday afternoon and I’m already nearly bored to tears. I’ve read a book, driven up to the office to find the wi-fi signal to check email and all that after an excellent service this morning in the tabernacle. Will I make it through the week? I’m sure I will, it will just take some getting used to and some self-discipline…two lovely prospects neither of which are much fun.

But rest is important; we were not made to be consistently on the go. God rested on the 7th day to give us an example, not because He needed the rest. We must eat, sleep, work, and when things break or we get sick…we must allow time to heal. It’s really that simple. While my body is healing though, I plan to study, read and pray. You don’t need two good legs for that and I’m way behind on all counts.

Ya’ll be careful out there!

An exercise in patience...

As I sit here this morning...feeling rather helpless...I am forced to come face to face with the spiritual lessons my present situation brings affords.

Let me start at the beginning...

On Thursday night the PGR was providing a flag line for the visitation of a young soldier who had been killed in a traffic accident. When I arrived at the funeral home I noticed the 3 flags on the funeral home's sign were not at half-staff. I thought it would be a respectful gesture if they were, so I looked around those who had assembled for the youngest of the bunch and found it was me. No problem, I located a ladder and crawled up on the sign to begin bringing the flags to half-staff. It was quite a reach from the top of the sign and others saw that this might be a time-consuming activity so two other men came up to assist. After I got done with my flag I looked around and one of the men had already jumped down from the sign and another was still using the ladder. Being a little on the impatient side I looked at the height at which I found myself and remembered many other heights from which I had successfully leapt in my younger days. This should be no different, plus I was in a hurry. So off the sign I leaped. And down my feet went into the soft soil of the front yard of the funeral home. Several within hearing distance said that heard a snap, all I heard was the air quickly evacuating my lungs as the landing was somewhat abrupt.

Being a proud man I did not allow anyone to see the pain I was feeling and honestly I wasn't sure just what I was feeling myself, so I walked (or hobbled) around on it for a couple of hours to see if it would improve. Not so, I asked a friend to take me to the emergency room and, sure enough, x-rays proved a broken ankle. So for the past 4 days I have been familiarizing myself with a primitive form of locomotion called crutches. What an ineffective means of movement! Not user friendly at all!

I've managed to do okay with showering with my leg in a trash bag and wearing split jeans to church, but this morning was to be the first attempt at driving. My plan was to drive myself to the orthopedist and then, if necessary, call a friend for a ride home or to the office. But the old truck didn't share my plans. The heat I suppose was too much for the battery and I didn't even get a click this morning. Thanks to Jaycob for being available to be my chauffeur. The good news is that there is no need for surgery...just 6 weeks in a cast followed by a few weeks in a walking boot.

In the meantime, Lord help me to remember patience, wisdom and that the best way to speed up is to slow down. Help me to remember that the devil is a roaring lion seeking to devour us at every turn and will throw all manner of obstacle in our path. Help me to be ready and be wary, for there are ways to combat the fiery darts of the evil one. Help me be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

Toast...dark

Have you ever given out completely? Physically, spiritually, emotionally? It can be a bad thing, but it can often be a good thing too.

Over the past 18 years of ministry I couldn't tell you how many trips I have made with teenagers and/or with a missions emphasis. It is a very effort-filled activity yet one that I immensely enjoy every time. Now it's not all pleasant but "all things work together" to make wonderful memories and hopefully do some kingdom building.

Last week (July 6-12) I accompanied over 40 mainly teens to Lakewood, Ohio to assist a new church plant pastored by 2 young couples from Holland Chapel in Benton and a young couple from our church here in North Little Rock.

It was a week full of activity: flyer distribution advertising the 2 Kids Fest events we helped host, working within a faith-based ministry assisting men and women in transition called "City Reach" (I am very impressed with this organization), working with a local animal shelter, taking gift bags to various community leaders who have been helpful to this young church, actually doing the two Kids Fest events (inflatable games, sno-cones, balloon animals, face-painting, etc.), moving our missionaries from one house into another, taking in a Cleveland Indians baseball game, and spending all day at an amusement park.

We chartered a bus, which is a wonderful way to travel, but we left Sunday morning at 9 am and didn't arrive 'til 3:30 am the next morning. After a full week of activity we opted to leave early Saturday morning (4 am) so we could get home at a reasonable hour Saturday night. But those bus rides were brutal. Kids are energetic...me, not so much. The seats are comfortable...for the first 12 hours maybe. And my claustrophobia kicked in to high gear a few times. Sunday was another full day and then trying to catch up in the office after being gone a week is just more weight to carry.

But who said hard work was a bad thing! I'd rather wear out as rust out! Praise God for the opportunity to be used in His kingdom work. What a privilege to be chosen to be a minister of His on this earth.

Father, as tired as I am, thank you. Fill me again with another measure of energy and vitality so that I can put it all back into your hands. Remind me that it's not about me, that our work here is not in vain, that every work for you will be blessed, and that one day...when we get to heaven...we will have our rest in an beautiful city where there is no fatigue, no impatience, and no problems! Until then, You are all I need!

(Spiritual) Freedom Remembered

(This is part 3)

One People Under the Cross
Americans have their symbols, so do Christians. For the Christian the cross and the empty tomb are the most meaningful.
It was on the cross that Jesus suffered and died to purchase our forgiveness and it was there that He paid our penalty for sin.

John 8:36 (NKJV) Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

It is the empty tomb that proves that we serve a risen, living Savior. Triumphant over death, hell and the grave and that everything He said about Himself and about us is true. It is in the resurrection that we have hope.
I Corinthians 15:14-20, …if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty. Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up--if in fact the dead do not rise. For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable. But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

Let me share with you the truth …the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the freedom we can enjoy in Him.

First, the sinner is a slave to sin. John 8:34 (NKJV) Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.

Next, the slave is doomed. Romans 6:23a (NKJV) For the wages of sin is death…

BUT, God loves freedom and has made a way for the sinner to be free.
Romans 5:12, 18 (NKJV) Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned—
18Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life.

Romans 6:23b (NKJV) but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The confusion of simplicity.
It's too good to be true!
It's too easy!
What else do I have to do to get it?

God loves you and wants you to be free … for eternity!

He paid the price, He did the work, all you must do is trust Him, repent, and give Him the key to your life

Freedom Remembered (in our Nation's Capitol)

(This is part 2)
National monuments give testimony of a Godly heritage
I think every American citizen should make the trip to our nation’s capitol. Washington D.C. is full of monuments, whose placement was no accident, to remind future generations of Americans of the high price paid for freedom.
Visit the nation's capitol and read the inscriptions on the memorials. Respect for and dependence upon the Word of God is evident in our past American leaders, those for whom we hold high in respect, those who laid the American foundation. Why does America now separate these words from the men who were driven by them? Tragically, it is evidence that our American leaders today do not share the same source of inspiration.
An inscription on a wall of the Jefferson Memorial states, "God who gave us life gave us liberty. Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of people that these liberties are a gift from God?” It’s as if he was looking down the tunnel of time.
The Washington Monument stands as a lofty and inspiring tribute to our first president, George Washington. It is the anchor on the west end of the National Mall. Few people know that engraved on the aluminum cap of the monument, towering 555 feet above the ground are the words, "Laus Deo", which is translated "Praise be to God." Stored within the cap is a Bible provided by the International Bible Society. Inside the monument itself several tributes line the staircase, most inscribed with Bible verses: "Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for such is the Kingdom of God (Luke 18:16)," "Search the Scriptures (John 5:39; Acts 17:11)," and "Holiness unto the Lord (Exodus 28:36); 39:30; Zechariah 14:20)."
I could spend the rest of the day sharing examples of God’s word on our monuments and memorials.

Government buildings give testimony of a Godly heritage
There is an inscription at The Daughters of the American Revolution building. It says, "Let us raise a standard to which the wise and honest can repair the event. The event is in the hands of God." There is also Proverbs 22:28 quoted for everyone to see. Maybe it is a message for the ACLU: "Remove not the ancient landmark which thy fathers have set."
In the U.S. Capitol Building when you walk into the Rotunda, four paintings hang on the wall. You have two prayer meetings, a Bible study and a baptism.
In the main reading room of the Library of Congress, there is a bronze statue of Moses holding The Ten Commandments. On the ceiling, a painting called "Judea" shows a young Israeli woman raising her hands in prayer to God. And there are also quotes on the wall like this: "The heavens declare the glory of God." And down the hallway in the main lobby, two Bibles are on display.
In the National Archives there is a bronze medallion on the floor and right at the top the Ten Commandments,
At the U.S. Supreme Court, The Ten Commandments are located in several different places, including right above the judge's courtroom bench. Yet even with all these references to God in our federal buildings, there are some judges out there who say God and government just do not go together.
Our Founding Fathers wanted future generations to acknowledge the hand of God in the founding of our nation. The Capitol Building itself is proof of this. Again, in the Rotunda, the center of the Capitol, there is a dramatic oil painting that impresses upon visitors the direct intervention of God from the earliest days of our history. The painting portrays Columbus landing in the Western World in 1492. His eyes are set toward heaven in thanks and praise as others around him kneel in gratitude.This painting depicts the gratitude Columbus felt in the fulfillment of what he believed was his God-given calling. "It was the Lord who put into my mind (I could feel His hand upon me) the fact that it would be possible to sail from here to the Indies."
Those who commissioned this painting knew what we have known all along, that God in His grace and wisdom guided those who first came to these shores.
When the Capitol Building was built, its designers were well aware of the dependence of the members of Congress upon God and prayer. The 83rd Congress designated a small room in the Capitol, near the rotunda, that is always open for the private prayer and meditation of members of Congress. This room is open whenever Congress is in session, and stands as a witness to the need for prayer by our nation's leaders.
The focal point of the room is an intricate stained glass window that depicts George Washington kneeling in prayer. Included are words from Psalm 16: "Preserve me, O God, for in Thee do I put my trust.

"Our currency gives testimony
Even the design of our currency acknowledges God's hand and providence in the founding of our nation. Toward that end, the Founding Fathers insisted that meaningful symbolism be incorporated into the design of the Great Seal of the United States that appears on the back of the one dollar bill. It features a great pyramid that symbolizes our republic and its qualities of strength and democracy. Across the top are the Latin words Annuit Coeptis expressing our confidence in God and in His gracious leading in the founding of our nation. Literally translated it means: Providence [God] has favored our undertaking. The pyramid is unfinished to remind each of us that our country is a work in progress, and the contribution made by each one can be significant. Over all, is the prevailing eye of God Himself, watching over the development of our nation, from its earliest moments to even now. Some have misinterpreted the symbolism of this seal, the reality is that it was designed to honor God and show our nation's trust in Him.
Most notable perhaps are the words, "In God We Trust” printed engraved into each piece of currency or coin. On an editorial note, may I express my discontent at this very important words now being moved onto the edge of the new dollar coin. I’m afraid it won’t be long before it is completely removed.Why can’t (or won’t) they see?
Ours is not a new struggle. As long as there have been men, there have been those who wanted to rule themselves. What they don’t understand that acknowledging God doesn’t bind a man but rather frees a man!
There are those who espouse separation of church and state. Brethren, our forefathers came to this country to escape the bonds of forced religion, not to have religion removed away from them. They simply wanted the freedom to choose to worship in the manner they considered most correct…voluntarily. The way God intended. The legislation regarding the separation of church and state is there to protect Americans from the formation of a national religion, not to remove religion from America!
Too many people say, “I think” or “I believe” or they begin to put words and intents into the Lord’s mouth. It’s not about what we think or feel, it’s about “THUS SAYETH THE LORD!”
There is such thing as absolute truth. Jesus said, “I am the way, the TRUTH, and the light…no man comes to the Father except through me”… John 8:32, You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free.

What must we do?
Know truth, seek truth, study truth…don’t buy the lie!
II Timothy 3:1-5, BUT know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!
We must love God, obey His commandments and turn away from the things of the world, especially those things which appear to have a form of godliness, yet are based on the ideas of man. We must remember the principles our nation was founded upon, the principles that so many gave their lives for, and we need to be ready to defend them at all costs!
Freedom isn’t free and it isn’t guaranteed!
Psalms 33:12a (NKJV) Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD,
May I admit to you dear friends, I am afraid. I am afraid because I have no confidence in those who are in control of our nation. Yes, I pray for them, but I see no godliness in them. Politics literally turns my stomach, but what we cannot and must not do is give up and let them have this country. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord ... what happens to the nation who turns her back on the Lord?

Freedom Remembered

The following is part one of a sermon I preached last Sunday. Parts two and three will follow.

What images come to your mind when I mention the word freedom? Eagles, flags, the statue of liberty, the rockets’ red glare, Mel Gibson in a kilt with blue and white makeup on his face?
All these are real symbols…true and good, but I’m afraid perhaps we have seen and enjoyed freedom’s benefits and have begun to take them for granted.
Do we remember the high price paid for freedom? The cost to maintain that freedom, or the responsibilities we have that come with freedom?
I hope to take a look at our Christian heritage, both as Americans and as Christians; and learn, or maybe remember, some things that would help us become a more grateful people, a more Godly people, and a more successful, blessed people.

One Nation Under God
We celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 … but the journey to freedom began long before that day.

A history of sacrifice
It was the colony of Virginia that took the first steps toward independence by voting to select a committee to represent the colonies. This First Continental Congress met in September of 1774. They drew up a list of grievances against the King of England which would become the first draft of a document that would formally separate the colonies away from England. Soon thereafter, George Washington would assume command of the Continental Army and began fighting the British in Massachusetts. For the next eight years, American colonists fought fervently in the Revolutionary War.
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress presented & debated a second draft of the list of grievances. John Hancock, the president of that Congress, was the first to sign. The document, called the Declaration of Independence, was deemed treasonous against the crown and the 56 men who signed it were in danger of execution.
Independence Day is celebrated on July 4 because that is the day the Continental Congress adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence. From July 8, 1776, until the next month, the document was read publicly and people celebrated whenever they heard it. The next year, in Philadelphia, bells rang and ships fired guns, candles and firecrackers were lighted. But the War of Independence dragged on until 1783, and in that year, Independence Day was made an official holiday.

What was the price of that freedom?
A price paid in blood
May we never forget that during the Revolutionary War, over 22,500 American soldiers were killed in battle. Another 63,000 died from disease as a result of their service, and 6,000 civilians were killed. No friends, freedom isn’t free.
The War of 1812 is one of the forgotten wars of the United States. The war lasted for over two years, and while it ended much like it started; in stalemate; it was in fact a war that once and for all confirmed American Independence. But it cost another 2,260 American soldiers their life.
Among America’s darkest days were those of the Civil War. Americans fighting Americans until nearly half a million lost their lives.
But the price continued to climb, during WWI over 117,000 American soldiers made the supreme sacrifice for freedom.
WWII – over 450,000
Korea – over 54,000
Vietnam – over 58,000
Persian Gulf – 150
War on Terror – over 4,000 so far

Our military has paid a tremendously high price for freedom and we must never forget, never take for granted, and never cease to hold in the highest esteem those who volunteer to protect us.
Among others who have purchased or preserved our freedom include at least 19,200 policemen killed in the line of duty. Approximately 100 firefighters are killed every year in the line of duty and at least 76 EMS workers since 1992 have been killed in the line of duty.
Every one of these numbers represents someone’s son or daughter, husband or wife, father or mother, grandson or granddaughter.
We must never forget that the price of freedom is not cheap.
These men and women are heroes, but they did not pay the price alone. They had a supreme commander who called them to their station and gave them the ability to carry out their duties. That is why real Americans proudly say, "One Nation Under God." May it always be so.

Two Sides to Every Coin

I've not posted anything in a few days...Vacation Bible School, upcoming Summer activities, getting ready for this vacation; it's been a very busy few weeks. But we've been in the Florida panhandle enjoying the beach for the past few days and will be here until Thursday morning.

I have really needed a little time away to just relax my mind and spirit. I have so enjoyed the beach, the surf, the waves, the sand, the sun, the beauty of it all. How very tranquil, beautiful, soothing.

Then yesterday I got word that the worst thing in the world that could happen to any parent has happened to two very dear friends. Joyce & John Vance's only child drowned while scuba diving with her husband in Cancun. She leaves behind her mom and dad, her grandmother, her husband, and two small children. Wow, what could be more tragic? My heart breaks for their loss.

Yes, she is in a better place. Yes, she is with Jesus...and all that is awesome. But parents aren't supposed to bury their children! Small children need their mommy!

How am I supposed to enjoy a vacation when I know my dear friends are reeling from this blow!

But I am reminded of the temporality of life for all of us and I'm reminded that God the Father saw His Son murdered for the sins of the world.

So as we grieve with John and Joyce, let us not grieve as those who have no hope. Let us hold them up and remind them of God's love. God's love is the greatest gift we can receive. Do you have it?

Two things we can do to make this world better

As you probably know, I ride with the Patriot Guard. We had a funeral escort yesterday from Jacksonville to Mayflower. As a result and once again, I have become very concerned with the state of oblivion some drivers, or maybe people in general, find themselves.

Example 1: People so busy talking on their cellphone they don't know in what lane they are traveling, how fast (or slow) they are going, and certainly have no idea what is going on in the world outside their car. HANG UP AND DRIVE!

Example 2: When you see a long line of motorcycles in front of a hearse...THAT'S A FUNERAL PEOPLE! This also applies to a long line of cars with their lights and/or flashers on!

Here is what you do.

1.) If you are meeting them on a two lane highway or city street pull over to the right and wait (and turn the radio down!)
2.) If they are on the interstate and you are trying to get on, either (a.) if possible and not dangerous...speed up and get in front or (b.) wait until they have passed and fall in behind, if you need to pass--no problem--pass in the lanes to the processions left.

Here is what you don't do

1.) Think you are so much more important than those in the procession and break into the procession to (a.) get on the interstate or (b.) get off the interstate. Just wait a minute, show some respect for goodness sake!

WHY?
1. Basis human kindness
2. Respect for fellow human beings
3. Safety for yourself and those on the road with you.
4. And also safety for yourself because one of these days you're gonna tick the wrong person off and they may seek to do you harm!

I apologize (a little) for this rant, but please receive it in its intended context...loving correction and/or education.

We need to open our eyes and see that there are other people inhabiting this orb with us. We need to see outside ourselves and see people like God sees them. Love unconditionally, care about them, share with them what you have...especially if it is spiritual peace!

Love ya'll!

ME FIRST!!!

One of my favorite sayings, usually while attending the State Fair or Riverfest, is.."It takes all kinds to make a world". Certainly there are differences in people, but for this entry I will stay far away from the exterior. I'm more interested in behavior. I have come to the conclusion that rudeness is about the most annoying thing anyone could express. Pushing ahead of you in line whether it be in traffic or in line, refusing to yield the right of way (even when there is a particular road sign instructing them to do so), and then just basic rudeness in interacting with people.

I have never worked in the food service industry but I know several people who do or have and most of them say that church groups are among the worst customers. What a shame! But they/we come in and rearrange the furniture, disrupt the peace, tip lightly or not at all, and expect perfection and superhuman service. I have long held the opinion that you can tell a lot about a person by the way they treat their waiter.

The Bible tells us in Romans chapter 12..."not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think"...vs. 3. In verse 10 we find the instruction, "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;"

"Giving preference to one another", wow, does that go against what comes naturally to us?

Whatever happened to the Golden Rule? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I try to practice that, but to be honest. It seems to be a one way street most of the time. However, if the truth be told, I could probably improve my attitude and think more highly of others too. As a matter of fact, that's a good project...care to join me?

Who do you blame?

I was relating the following story to a buddy and he (through his laughter-induced tears) said I had to post it on my blog. So here goes...

For reference sake, I have an old 1990 Chevrolet pickup that I love. It has 204,000 miles on it, the air seldom works, the driver's window hangs, the paint is flaking off, and it uses nearly as much oil as it does gas. But I love it. It is special to me. It was built the same year I entered the full-time ministry. I keep thinking Chuck Foose or X-ibit will show up and give it a starring role in "Overhaulin'" or "Pimp My Ride" but nothing yet...

Anyway, did I mention I use a lot of oil? I don't change the oil regularly as I add a fresh quart to the top every few days, but I thought it might be prudent to change the filter as it had been awhile.

I went to a local auto parts store and bought the oil and filter and planned to do the deed before it got too dark. Something happened to change my schedule (I have a wife and two daughters you see), well it got dark. No problem, I have a trouble light. I located it and pulled it out to the street where I parked, the bulb even worked! I got my drain pan, my crescent wrench and went looking for my filter wrench... 30 minutes later...sweating and exasperated...I find it. Now to begin.

I crawl under the truck from the front, locate the drain plug and remove it, so far so good. All I found was the strap-type filter wrench I use on my bike (a two-handed job) so I crawl out and enter from behind the front wheel for better access. That wasn't even too bad (righty tighty--lefty loosy). However, in shuffling around I hit my trouble light which either shorted out the switch or the bulb..whatever, all I know is instant darkness.

I crawl out and go find a flashlight to finish the job. I get everything reinstalled and push everything (including the drain pan) out from under the truck to the curb where I can pick it up and put it away neatly.

Crawling back out (armed only with a flashlight) I go around to the front of the truck to begin pouring in the new oil. Concentrating on what's under the hood, not whats on, or at, the curb (and did I mention that it's beginning to sprinkle?).

At any rate, I stepped on the rim of the drain pan and managed to send warm, nasty oil all up onto the right leg of my jeans (the ones with the large rip in that very knee). So now I have this oil running down the outside of my pants leg, inside my pants leg, and into my right shoe and, in addition, all over the street in front of the truck. Now I have a mess. I sloshed around, probably killing my grass, and finished adding the oil to my truck.

Remember how long it took to find the filter wrench, well at least in the search I did find that I had half a bag a kitty litter left over from a previous spill, so I found that and distributed it onto the street portion of the spill. I put away all my tools, wiped down the side of the truck, wiped off the bottom of my shoe and shut the garage door. I took off the shoes and pants I was wearing and put them in a trash bag with the empty oil cans, wiped down my leg and headed to the shower. Imagine my wife's expression as I come walking into the house from outside wearing only my bvds!

Why did this happen? Was God spanking me for being a bad boy? Was the devil trying to steal my joy? I contend that when God chastens His children, they know why. As for the other explanation, I don't know ... its possible, but I also know that bad things just happen on this sin-cursed earth on which we live. Why else would babies get sick, would good people have traffic accidents, and why else would good young men be killed in war.

I don't know about you, but I'm about ready for the Lord to come back and take us away from all this...plus, I'll bet we won't have to change the oil in anything in heaven!

Have a great day!!!

Adjustment

I must admit that as I rise this morning, I'm not doing so well, but I know I can get there. I thought maybe I would bring you along on my little therapeutic journey to feeling better.

You see, yesterday was Memorial Day and as I stood with my Patriot Guard family at the Veterans Cemetery, midst the sea of white crosses, little flags and plastic flowers it began to soak in again just how much pain and loss has been experienced in this experiment known as America.

In addition, there was another funeral we were asked to attend yesterday for a man who had been an MP in WWII. Ends up I knew this man, I had worked with him on many funerals as he had been a funeral director as well. I had already too many plans to be able to attend in person, but he and his family were not far from my mind.

Today at 1:00 we will be standing for yet another man who served his country well. A medic in Vietnam, imagine all the carnage and fear he experienced, yet he came home and managed to live a full life and raise a family.

If that's not enough, Friday morning a brave little lady only a year older than myself finally won her bitterly contested battle with cancer, today she stands victorious on the streets of God holding hands with Jesus. But for those left behind whose life was in taking care of their wife, mother, sister, daughter, etc. there is a gaping wound. Her service will be tomorrow morning. Then I was notified yesterday, that a dear sweet lady who had been afflicted with Alzheimer's for a very long time had gone on home. Her service will be later in the week.

Yes, in the ministry we are exposed to more than our share of funerals, but honestly sometimes it can be a struggle. On those days, I find that I have allowed myself to become too much a part of this present age and I remind myself of a very important quote.

C.S. Lewis said...

I must keep alive in myself the desire for my true country,
which I shall not find 'til after death;
I must never let it get snowed under or turned aside;
I must make it the main object of life
to press on to that other country
and to help others to do the same

Those words bring me back to the realization that it's not about what happens here. We are here now and of this we are fully involved, but there is more...much more. As I grow older I am amazed at how quickly time passes, maybe that's why the words to the last verse of Amazing Grace has recently become so important to me.

When we've been there 10,000 years, bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days, to sing God's praise than when we first begun.

In heaven (our true home) there will be not waste, no spoil, no loss. Time will not exist so we will always have plenty, we will never lose anyone, nor will there be any sorrow. Are you looking forward to our true country? Are you a citizen of that fine land? That fact alone is what keeps me keeping on. Praise God!

Memorial Day 2008

Today is Memorial Day, the culmination of the long Memorial Day weekend. A time of family, friends, food, fun and the like. For me it (the weekend) has meant two days of garage sale, three visits to Riverfest, a great Sunday at church, and now I am preparing for lunch with friends and to attend the special Memorial Day Observance at the State Veteran's Cemetery in Sherwood.

While there is nothing wrong with having fun with the family and friends on Memorial Day, watching the NBA playoffs, soaking in the lake, or whatever activity scratches your particular itch this weekend. I do ask that you set aside some time to remember and appreciate those who paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.

As I ponder the state of the American nation I am certainly concerned, the Presidential election holds no promise of anything good and the moral and financial decline coupled with the promise of higher gas and food prices has me on the verge of depression; however, this is still one nation under God, this is America: The land of the free and the home of the brave, this is still the greatest nation in the world and I am proud to be called an American.

I fondly remember those whom I never met, young men and women who answered the call to fight for America. Those who fought in wars from the Revolutionary War to the present day War on Terror. My heart grieves for their sacrifice and I hurt for the families they left behind. But my heart swells with pride at the courage and steadfastness they showed in doing what they were called to do. It is because of them that we enjoy the freedoms we have today. So think about those hillsides and valleys adorned with white crosses today...and everyday.

I think it is also important that we remember a particular hillside adorned with a cross. That hillside is just outside Jerusalem and it is called Golgotha, the place of the skull. On that hillside over 2000 years ago a man named Jesus gave up His life for our freedom as well. But rather than political or national freedom, Jesus provides freedom from sin and the penalty we all owe for it. This Memorial Day I hope you find yourself within the family of God, if not, you need to visit that hillside in your heart and accept the freedom that only Christ offers.

Spring Cleaning

For those of you who may not have figured this out yet, let me save you lots of time and effort. "MEN AND WOMEN ARE DIFFERENT!" There, the secret is out!

For instance, to a man an attic is a space where things go and are never thought of again until it is (a.) Christmas or (b.)time to move. Whereupon we either (a.) reach in just far enough to grab the lights from last year to hang on the house or (b.) haul it all out to the curb for the trash man.

On the other hand, a woman has a need to know just what is up there and why. For some time now the contents of our attic have been sending mental messages to my wife. She has been telling me that we needed to "clean out the attic" for a few weeks but the Lord has smiled and kept us too busy for such. That was, until Saturday.

I rose early and rode out to have breakfast with some good friends then came home to start on "attic day". I will not be telling you about the fall I took off the patio thereby scraping the hide off my right elbow and left knee, you might think I am clumsy, so never mind.

Long story short, the attic is now empty, even swept out. Now at one point my garage looked like the aftermath from Katrina, but we began the long, arduous process of deciding what went to the curb (May I hereby place on record my public apology to the Jacksonville Department of Sanitation...you're gonna need a bigger truck!) What needed to be washed in preparation for the garage sale (yeah, where did that come from and when did I agree to that?) and what needed to be retained for later. (for use in my children's future homes, I'm told).

Thank goodness some dear friends called my wife late in the afternoon and invited us to the Travelers game or we might have been out there until midnight.

But all in all, it was a good thing. There was a lot of accumulated trash and worthlessness that needed to be removed. Which gives me a good springboard to explore the spiritual side of things.

It is good to do a little spring cleaning spiritually from time to time too. Things can accumulate in our attics, basements, closets, and other areas of our minds and lives that just dampens our joy and interferes with the kind of relationship God wants to have with us...his children.

I love the promise of I John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." No conditions, no judgment, just confess it (which is a simple agreement with God that it is/was wrong and that you're sorry for it) and ask Him to forgive it (and His forgiveness is perfect. He removes it as far as the east is from the west) and again with a "clean slate".

Praise God for His holy forgetfulness and complete forgiveness. One catch, this spring cleaning is reserved for those who have become part of the family of God through salvation in His Son Jesus Christ.

Do you need a little tidying up? It might not be pleasant during the process, but after the dust clears, it is so much better. Hey, I'm even proud of my attic now!

Have a great day, that's what HE wants for you!

Available for Distraction

I heard a quote the other day that has really occupied my mind, "If the mountain was smooth...you couldn't climb it." Wow, how much truth is contained there? Life is a mountain, it seems, and the rocks and crags and valleys and outcroppings that seem to hamper our progress are really handholds and resting places that compliment our ascent.

Whether your life is a mountain or not, it is certainly a journey. But we seldom follow the path that we originally established for ourselves...don't we? God say through the prophet Isaiah in chapter 55:8-9 (NKJV) 8“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. 9“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts."

I have had a couple in interesting things happen to me over the last couple of days. I took a ride with some friends up to Drasco, and at a meeting place I was asked if I did "bike blessings". Well, I never have, but I can sure pray for you, for safety, for mechanical soundness, so I said "sure!".
What a wonderful opportunity to pray with friends over a blessing from God and invite Him to ride along with them and acknowledge His protection and providence in their lives. Another "holy moment" if you will. Also being introduced as a chaplain I have had several requests to pray for a situation or a family member or a friend or a need, whatever. And although it began as a means of just not letting my forgetfulness keep me from keeping a promise, I just ask if we can pray about it right then and there. Again, what a blessing.

I may not have seen that coming or even planned for it, but what a blessing! I am reminded of ole' Moses and his "burning bush" experience. Exodus 3:3-4 (NKJV) 3Then Moses said, “I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.” 4So when the Lord saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”

Do you see what I see there? It wasn't until Moses actually turned aside to look at this strange thing that God called to him. What if Moses just kept walking? What if he hadn't turned aside? Would we have the Old Testament? Would the children of Israel still be captive in Egypt? Who knows?

Father, help me to no be so distracted from my chosen path that I neglect to see the "burning bushes" and other opportunities You place to try to get my attention. Help me to seek those "holy moments" and ways I can be involved in things far bigger than myself. And Father, thanks for picking me out for this special work. You are a great God!