Friday was a special day for me. I attended the memorial service for Byron Nelson that afternoon. I almost decided not to go after the media kept talking about how there would not be room for everyone, and you better arrive by 11 AM to get a seat for the 1:30 PM service. I got there at 12:30 and had no problem finding a parking place and a good seat in the auditorium.
The memorial service was beautiful -- befitting a man who was also beautiful. As I watched the many professional golfers who were there because of their respect for Mr. Nelson, I found myself praying for them. I realized that service might be the only opportunity some of them have to hear the gospel. And they certainly did. Who knows what seeds might have been planted in their hearts.
I love the way Rick Atchley summed Byron's life up. He said, "You can debate about which man is the greatest golfer, but there is no debate about which golfer is the greatest man."
Then after the service, I drove to Crockett to see Beverly's dad. He is in the hospital. I got there about 6:30. I took Beverly's mom to supper, then sent her home and I stayed with Mr. Jones that night. He is such a great man. He has been like a dad to me, and I was reminded of that as we visited and sat together that night.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Thursday Tidbits
I love our mens' class on Wednesday night. It's great to hear men -- young and old(er) share their struggles, dreams and convictions. The sincerity of these guys is so obvious. It really does make for a lift each week.
__________________________
I plan to attempt to attend Byron Nelson's funeral tomorrow. I won't be surprised if I get there and can't get in. The auditorium holds 2200, and the remote feed to the gym holds another 1900. I wonder where everyone will park?
For an excellent article about Byron, go to pga.com and read what Grant Boone (a member of the Church of Christ) wrote. It will give you goosebumps.
__________________________
Every Thursday morning, I go to Governor's Ridge, a retirement center here in Decatur. I get to spend 45 minutes or so with some of the sweetest people ever. All ladies, except for Bill Dwyer. What an incredible man! He was a highly decorated soldier in WW2, and is such a kind man. It is a real treat to go out there.
__________________________
Our daughter-in-law, Kayci, is doing well. Said the baby is the size of a raisin. By next week will be the size of a strawberry. Josh is already claiming that the baby looks like him.
When Kayci was talking to our granddaughter, Malaya (my daughter's 6 year old), she asked what Malaya wanted. Malaya said, “I hope it's a girl. I'm tired of these stinkin’ boys!”
__________________________
So, T. O. won't be a distraction for the Cowboys? Sure.
__________________________
I plan to attempt to attend Byron Nelson's funeral tomorrow. I won't be surprised if I get there and can't get in. The auditorium holds 2200, and the remote feed to the gym holds another 1900. I wonder where everyone will park?
For an excellent article about Byron, go to pga.com and read what Grant Boone (a member of the Church of Christ) wrote. It will give you goosebumps.
__________________________
Every Thursday morning, I go to Governor's Ridge, a retirement center here in Decatur. I get to spend 45 minutes or so with some of the sweetest people ever. All ladies, except for Bill Dwyer. What an incredible man! He was a highly decorated soldier in WW2, and is such a kind man. It is a real treat to go out there.
__________________________
Our daughter-in-law, Kayci, is doing well. Said the baby is the size of a raisin. By next week will be the size of a strawberry. Josh is already claiming that the baby looks like him.
When Kayci was talking to our granddaughter, Malaya (my daughter's 6 year old), she asked what Malaya wanted. Malaya said, “I hope it's a girl. I'm tired of these stinkin’ boys!”
__________________________
So, T. O. won't be a distraction for the Cowboys? Sure.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Ode to Byron Nelson
The world lost one of its really special people yesterday with the passing of Byron Nelson. I wrote a little bit about him back in May before his Dallas tournament, but want to reflect on his legacy again.
There are a handful of sports records that may never be broken. One could make a good argument for Nolan Ryan's 7 no-hitters, and maybe his career strikeouts. My guess is Joe Dimaggio's 56-game hitting streak is pretty safe. Wilt Chamberlain's 100 points in one game used to seem untouchable -- until Kobe ("Never Seen a Shot I Want Take") Bryant came along. But still, he is 30 points away in his best game. Maybe Jerry Rice's career touchdowns?
One record that I can't see ever being broken is Byron's 11 straight PGA wins in 1945. Tiger got to 5 this year, and that was unbelievable! But he wasn't even half way. Interesting, Byron lost in the 12th tournament, and then went on another streak. He went on to win 18 tournaments that year!
But his greatest achievement is the way in which his life was lived. Everyone who knew him knew what his #1 priority in life was -- to go to heaven. He was a man who lived a life of faith without being obnoxious about it. I have never heard or read one negative word about him. He has been adored be men from Arnold Palmer to Ben Crenshaw to Tiger Woods.
In Churches of Christ, we have had some wonderful celebrities to represent us: Sonny James, Loretta Lynn, Sen. John Cornyn, Randy Travis, Gene Stallings, David Robinson. But Byron Nelson has truly been a great ambassador. And more importantly, he has been an ambassador for Christ.
May the Lord raise up more like Byron Nelson. And I congratulate him for obtaining his goal. He's now at home with the Lord.
There are a handful of sports records that may never be broken. One could make a good argument for Nolan Ryan's 7 no-hitters, and maybe his career strikeouts. My guess is Joe Dimaggio's 56-game hitting streak is pretty safe. Wilt Chamberlain's 100 points in one game used to seem untouchable -- until Kobe ("Never Seen a Shot I Want Take") Bryant came along. But still, he is 30 points away in his best game. Maybe Jerry Rice's career touchdowns?
One record that I can't see ever being broken is Byron's 11 straight PGA wins in 1945. Tiger got to 5 this year, and that was unbelievable! But he wasn't even half way. Interesting, Byron lost in the 12th tournament, and then went on another streak. He went on to win 18 tournaments that year!
But his greatest achievement is the way in which his life was lived. Everyone who knew him knew what his #1 priority in life was -- to go to heaven. He was a man who lived a life of faith without being obnoxious about it. I have never heard or read one negative word about him. He has been adored be men from Arnold Palmer to Ben Crenshaw to Tiger Woods.
In Churches of Christ, we have had some wonderful celebrities to represent us: Sonny James, Loretta Lynn, Sen. John Cornyn, Randy Travis, Gene Stallings, David Robinson. But Byron Nelson has truly been a great ambassador. And more importantly, he has been an ambassador for Christ.
May the Lord raise up more like Byron Nelson. And I congratulate him for obtaining his goal. He's now at home with the Lord.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Heading to East Texas
Beverly's dad is back in the hospital as of yesterday. So, I will be going down to Crockett today to check on him.
Also I will be trading Beverly's Honda Odyssey in for a Honda Civic. We have decided to downsize our cars and direct the savings to our retirement fund. The Odyssey is Beverly's favorite car she has ever had. So she is a little sad this morning. But I think she will look so stylin' in her Civic.
Here's the interesting part: I had wanted to get a Honda Fit. But my salesman friend from Lufkin, Texas said there is not one in the 5-state area. He has another Civic on the lot. It's a LE, which is the middle package. But it's the same color as the one I am getting for Beverly, which is an XE. So, we might be driving the same model and color car. What do you think? Is that too weird, or is it kind of romantic?
I am now on the Board of Directors for W.A.R.M. (Wise Area Relief Mission). It is a great service to our community. I spent several hours yesterday learning more about it, and am so impressed. So I will probably be telling you more about WARM over the coming months and years.
Please offer up a prayer today for Beverly's dad.
Also I will be trading Beverly's Honda Odyssey in for a Honda Civic. We have decided to downsize our cars and direct the savings to our retirement fund. The Odyssey is Beverly's favorite car she has ever had. So she is a little sad this morning. But I think she will look so stylin' in her Civic.
Here's the interesting part: I had wanted to get a Honda Fit. But my salesman friend from Lufkin, Texas said there is not one in the 5-state area. He has another Civic on the lot. It's a LE, which is the middle package. But it's the same color as the one I am getting for Beverly, which is an XE. So, we might be driving the same model and color car. What do you think? Is that too weird, or is it kind of romantic?
I am now on the Board of Directors for W.A.R.M. (Wise Area Relief Mission). It is a great service to our community. I spent several hours yesterday learning more about it, and am so impressed. So I will probably be telling you more about WARM over the coming months and years.
Please offer up a prayer today for Beverly's dad.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Monday Musings
OK, I feel like I owe everyone an apology. Last week, I wrote about "24". At one point I even said that, while violent, there wasn't sex, etc. Well, remember: Beverly and I had started on season number four. And that was true of that particular season. So, this weekend -- we began season 1. Oops. It is full of homosexuality -- both men and women, as well as other pretty blatant sexual scenes. Sorry if I misled anybody.
____________________
While speaking of apologies, I think the American Ryder Cup team owes us an apology (jk). The Europeans gave them an old-fashioned whuppin'. I must give them credit, however. They played incredibly well. And I was also impressed with how gracious they were in their victory. I even found myself rooting for Darren Clarke and Colin Montgomery. The only guy who sours me toward the Europeans is Sergio Garcia. Someone needs to wipe that smirky attitude off his face. But there is only one way to do it -- and that's to beat him.
____________________
New week. Cool weather. Let's make the most of each day. And let's make sure to be God's instrument -- the hands and feet of Jesus.
____________________
While speaking of apologies, I think the American Ryder Cup team owes us an apology (jk). The Europeans gave them an old-fashioned whuppin'. I must give them credit, however. They played incredibly well. And I was also impressed with how gracious they were in their victory. I even found myself rooting for Darren Clarke and Colin Montgomery. The only guy who sours me toward the Europeans is Sergio Garcia. Someone needs to wipe that smirky attitude off his face. But there is only one way to do it -- and that's to beat him.
____________________
New week. Cool weather. Let's make the most of each day. And let's make sure to be God's instrument -- the hands and feet of Jesus.
Friday, September 22, 2006
What's On Your TV?
A couple of weeks ago when Beverly was out of town for the weekend on the Decatur Church's ladies retreat, I went to Blockbuster and rented a DVD of the 4th season of "24". I thought I was getting the 1st season. Anyway, I had read somewhere how good a show it was, so I decided to give it a shot. Well, I got hooked. Then Beverly came home, and I said, "You've got to watch this." Then she got hooked. When she finished the 1st DVD, she said, "Go get the other one!" I said, "We'll be up 'til 2 AM watching it." So, we waited.
Last night, we finished season 4. Now we want to go back and see the other seasons. However, Beverly said, "Let's wait a while. I've got to get some rest!" In case you weren't aware, she is pretty hyper. And shows like that make her even more so.
It's funny. We have DISH, and yet we seldom watch TV. There are few series we watch each week. We like Monk and Psych (USA), but they have real short seasons that begin in September, January and May. So, there is a lot of in between seasons with them. And we kind of watch American Idol, while we multitask. I usually do some reading while it's on. My favorite episodes are the early-in-the-season shows where they show the really bad singers.
It seems that we don't get onto a series until it's on reruns on TNT or USA. For instance, one night when she was working late, I decided to try "Without a Trace" (on TNT reruns). Wow! It was good, too.
I hear a lot about certain shows, but I've never seen them. We have a group from church who get together each week to watch "Lost." But I haven't got a clue about that show.
So, what's worth watching on the tube these days?
______________________________
The Ryder Cup began this morning. The Europeans are trying to give the US more incentive to win. Maybe you heard about the Irish tabloids publishing indecent pictures of Tiger Woods' wife (computer generated). He is furious -- threatening to sue. Then there is Sergio Garcia mouthing about how he is not intimidated by Tiger. Interesting. Every time he is paired with Tiger, he goes into meltdown.
The tradition since the inception of the Ryder Cup is that each team takes a group picture before the matches begin -- holding the cup. Yesterday, the Europeans did not provide the cup for the Americans to hold in their group picture. A little gamesmanship. I just hope our guys respond. They've been pretty embarrassed the last few times.
Last night, we finished season 4. Now we want to go back and see the other seasons. However, Beverly said, "Let's wait a while. I've got to get some rest!" In case you weren't aware, she is pretty hyper. And shows like that make her even more so.
It's funny. We have DISH, and yet we seldom watch TV. There are few series we watch each week. We like Monk and Psych (USA), but they have real short seasons that begin in September, January and May. So, there is a lot of in between seasons with them. And we kind of watch American Idol, while we multitask. I usually do some reading while it's on. My favorite episodes are the early-in-the-season shows where they show the really bad singers.
It seems that we don't get onto a series until it's on reruns on TNT or USA. For instance, one night when she was working late, I decided to try "Without a Trace" (on TNT reruns). Wow! It was good, too.
I hear a lot about certain shows, but I've never seen them. We have a group from church who get together each week to watch "Lost." But I haven't got a clue about that show.
So, what's worth watching on the tube these days?
______________________________
The Ryder Cup began this morning. The Europeans are trying to give the US more incentive to win. Maybe you heard about the Irish tabloids publishing indecent pictures of Tiger Woods' wife (computer generated). He is furious -- threatening to sue. Then there is Sergio Garcia mouthing about how he is not intimidated by Tiger. Interesting. Every time he is paired with Tiger, he goes into meltdown.
The tradition since the inception of the Ryder Cup is that each team takes a group picture before the matches begin -- holding the cup. Yesterday, the Europeans did not provide the cup for the Americans to hold in their group picture. A little gamesmanship. I just hope our guys respond. They've been pretty embarrassed the last few times.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Does God Want You To Be Rich?
I found this on Mike Cope's blog. It is fairly lengthy, but I would encourage you to take a moment to read it. Blessings to you today.
____________________
I hope you got a chance to read the excellent, balanced cover story in Time Magazine entitled “Does God Want You to Be Rich?” The cover description says: “Yes, say some megachurches. Others call it heresy. The debate over the new gospel of wealth.”
Seriously — how did the Evangelical church get here?
The basic movement of the gospel is clear (Phil. 2:5ff): self-denial and self-sacrifice rather than self-fulfillment. We follow one who had no place to lay his head, who warned us that life does not consist in the abundance of things, who told a wealthy man to sell all and give to the poor, who insisted that we cannot have two masters (God and $$). Followers of Christ in other cultures have often lost all as a result of their faithfulness to him.
But walk into Christian bookstores and there is a different gospel. The gospel of Joel Osteen.
And does it sell! Your Best Life Now has sold over 4 million copies. It finds a welcome audience in the consumerism of America.
The authors of the article write:
“What remains is a materialism framed in a kind of Tony Robbins positivism. No one exemplifies this better than Osteen, who ran his father’s television-production department until John died in 1999. ‘Joel has learned from his dad, but he has toned it back and tapped into basic, everday folks’ ways of talking,’ says Ben Phillips, a theology professor at the Soutwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. That language is reflected in Your Best Life Now, an extraordinarily accessible exhortation to this-world empowerment through God. ‘To live your best life now,’ it opens, to see ‘your business taking off. See your marriage restored. See your family prospering. See your dreams come to pass . . .’ you must ’start looking through the eyes of faith.’ Jesus is front and center but not his Crucifixion, Resurrection or Atonement.”
Does that tell us something?
The book is full of “illustrations of how the Prosperity doctrine has produced personal gain, most memorably, perhaps, for the Osteen family: how Victoria’s ’speaking words of faith and victory’ eventually brought the couple their dream house; how Joel discerned God’s favor in being bumped from economy to business class.”
Insightfully, the authors go on to talk about the basic for criticism of this Prosperity Lite movement: “Most unnerving for Osteen’s critics is the suspicion that they are fighting not just one idiosyncratic misreading of the gospel but something more daunting: the latest lurch in Protestantism’s ongoing descent into full-blown American materialism.”
Rick Warren, who by his words and life is becoming an incredible leader in the worldwide church, said: “This idea that God wants everybody to be wealthy? Baloney. It’s creating a false idol. You don’t measure your self-worthy by your net worth.”
Ron Sider, author of Rich Christians in a Hungry World: “They have neglected the texts about the danger of riches. Prosperity Gospel Lite is one of the most powerful forms of neglect of the poor.”
And Ben Witherington, an incredible Evangelical New Testament scholar at Asbury Seminary: “We need to renounce the false gospel of wealth and health — it is a disease of our American culture: it is not a solution or answer to life’s problems.”
The “internet monk” (Michael Spencer) has written:
“He’s being sold to us by people who want to make money off his success, and they are counting on us to be sheep, ‘baaing’ quietly, but going along to the slaughter. Any analysis of Joel Osteen’s theology is going to have a hard time saying he is proclaiming the Christian message. The most popular preacher in Christianity is proclaiming a theology that is neither Christian, nor Jewish, nor Muslim, but is pragmatically pagan. Pagan in the sense of finding ways to gain the favor of god so he will do good things for you. Manipulating the deity to give you blessings. This is the ultimate example of Luther’s ‘theology of glory’ chosen over the ‘theology of the cross.’ I would rather a non-Christian hear John Shelby Spong a hundred times than hear this. Spong denies it all- outright. Osteen is presented as a Christian, but his message isn’t going to bring you to Christ, the Kingdom or heaven. It’s spiritual cyanide disguised as candy. If there is a hell, Osteen’s message won’t stop you or the people you love from going there, because the savior in his messages is YOU and the salvation he offers is a NEW ATTITUDE, and some resulting real estate. The question becomes, will evangelicals do anything? Will they say anything? Will they register their objections to Osteen’s reshaping of the Reformation gospel into a positive thinking message that makes Robert Schuller look like John Calvin in comparison?”
Yesterday I listened to Dan McVey talk about the advancement of Islam in North America. It is the fastest-growing religion in North America. (On a global scale, protestant Christianity is by far the fastest growing religion, however. It outpaces Islam in growth by 3-1, I believe Dan said.) In this culture of ease and consumerism, Islam offers a faith of discipline and serious devotion. Of course, Christianity does too (along with a framework of grace and a God who has come near in Christ) — just not in the versions that have become so popular in “Christian” bookstores.
____________________
I hope you got a chance to read the excellent, balanced cover story in Time Magazine entitled “Does God Want You to Be Rich?” The cover description says: “Yes, say some megachurches. Others call it heresy. The debate over the new gospel of wealth.”
Seriously — how did the Evangelical church get here?
The basic movement of the gospel is clear (Phil. 2:5ff): self-denial and self-sacrifice rather than self-fulfillment. We follow one who had no place to lay his head, who warned us that life does not consist in the abundance of things, who told a wealthy man to sell all and give to the poor, who insisted that we cannot have two masters (God and $$). Followers of Christ in other cultures have often lost all as a result of their faithfulness to him.
But walk into Christian bookstores and there is a different gospel. The gospel of Joel Osteen.
And does it sell! Your Best Life Now has sold over 4 million copies. It finds a welcome audience in the consumerism of America.
The authors of the article write:
“What remains is a materialism framed in a kind of Tony Robbins positivism. No one exemplifies this better than Osteen, who ran his father’s television-production department until John died in 1999. ‘Joel has learned from his dad, but he has toned it back and tapped into basic, everday folks’ ways of talking,’ says Ben Phillips, a theology professor at the Soutwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. That language is reflected in Your Best Life Now, an extraordinarily accessible exhortation to this-world empowerment through God. ‘To live your best life now,’ it opens, to see ‘your business taking off. See your marriage restored. See your family prospering. See your dreams come to pass . . .’ you must ’start looking through the eyes of faith.’ Jesus is front and center but not his Crucifixion, Resurrection or Atonement.”
Does that tell us something?
The book is full of “illustrations of how the Prosperity doctrine has produced personal gain, most memorably, perhaps, for the Osteen family: how Victoria’s ’speaking words of faith and victory’ eventually brought the couple their dream house; how Joel discerned God’s favor in being bumped from economy to business class.”
Insightfully, the authors go on to talk about the basic for criticism of this Prosperity Lite movement: “Most unnerving for Osteen’s critics is the suspicion that they are fighting not just one idiosyncratic misreading of the gospel but something more daunting: the latest lurch in Protestantism’s ongoing descent into full-blown American materialism.”
Rick Warren, who by his words and life is becoming an incredible leader in the worldwide church, said: “This idea that God wants everybody to be wealthy? Baloney. It’s creating a false idol. You don’t measure your self-worthy by your net worth.”
Ron Sider, author of Rich Christians in a Hungry World: “They have neglected the texts about the danger of riches. Prosperity Gospel Lite is one of the most powerful forms of neglect of the poor.”
And Ben Witherington, an incredible Evangelical New Testament scholar at Asbury Seminary: “We need to renounce the false gospel of wealth and health — it is a disease of our American culture: it is not a solution or answer to life’s problems.”
The “internet monk” (Michael Spencer) has written:
“He’s being sold to us by people who want to make money off his success, and they are counting on us to be sheep, ‘baaing’ quietly, but going along to the slaughter. Any analysis of Joel Osteen’s theology is going to have a hard time saying he is proclaiming the Christian message. The most popular preacher in Christianity is proclaiming a theology that is neither Christian, nor Jewish, nor Muslim, but is pragmatically pagan. Pagan in the sense of finding ways to gain the favor of god so he will do good things for you. Manipulating the deity to give you blessings. This is the ultimate example of Luther’s ‘theology of glory’ chosen over the ‘theology of the cross.’ I would rather a non-Christian hear John Shelby Spong a hundred times than hear this. Spong denies it all- outright. Osteen is presented as a Christian, but his message isn’t going to bring you to Christ, the Kingdom or heaven. It’s spiritual cyanide disguised as candy. If there is a hell, Osteen’s message won’t stop you or the people you love from going there, because the savior in his messages is YOU and the salvation he offers is a NEW ATTITUDE, and some resulting real estate. The question becomes, will evangelicals do anything? Will they say anything? Will they register their objections to Osteen’s reshaping of the Reformation gospel into a positive thinking message that makes Robert Schuller look like John Calvin in comparison?”
Yesterday I listened to Dan McVey talk about the advancement of Islam in North America. It is the fastest-growing religion in North America. (On a global scale, protestant Christianity is by far the fastest growing religion, however. It outpaces Islam in growth by 3-1, I believe Dan said.) In this culture of ease and consumerism, Islam offers a faith of discipline and serious devotion. Of course, Christianity does too (along with a framework of grace and a God who has come near in Christ) — just not in the versions that have become so popular in “Christian” bookstores.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Back From ACU
Just returned yesterday from the ACU lectures. We intended to stay for more of them, but got a call Monday night that Beverly's dad would have a procedure on Tuesday that was very serious. So, we left early Tuesday to try to get her back to Tyler. But about halfway home, we got a call that all had gone well. So, Beverly dropped me off in Decatur and she headed on to Tyler. Hopefully, she will come home today, and her dad will go home tomorrow. Thanks to all for your prayers.
It was nice having the lectures in September. I always love going back to Abilene and seeing some of my favorite people in the world.
____________________________
I have a calendar called, "Amazing But True Golf Facts." Yesterday's was cool. It reads, "If you're looking for a good guy to root for on the PGA Tour, you couldn't do much better than Kenny Perry, who still lives in his hometown of Franklin, Kentucky. For years, he's taken every September off to coach the boys' and girls' golf teams at Simpson High School. His ball mark is a coin with an angel on it, and he never travels anywhere without his Bible."
This calendar is a secular one, so I found the comments interesting. Kenny Perry is a deacon in the Franklin Church of Christ. He donates 5% of his earnings to the David Lipscomb University golf team. Over the last few years, that would be in the neighborhood of $250,000-300,000 a year.
He was in the top ten in the world last year. Unfortunately, an off-season knee operation has reallly slowed him down this year.
_____________________________
Speaking of golf: Set your VCRs or TIVOs this week. RYDER CUP, baby! Friday through Sunday. I think I feel a three-day bug about to hit Friday morning.
It was nice having the lectures in September. I always love going back to Abilene and seeing some of my favorite people in the world.
____________________________
I have a calendar called, "Amazing But True Golf Facts." Yesterday's was cool. It reads, "If you're looking for a good guy to root for on the PGA Tour, you couldn't do much better than Kenny Perry, who still lives in his hometown of Franklin, Kentucky. For years, he's taken every September off to coach the boys' and girls' golf teams at Simpson High School. His ball mark is a coin with an angel on it, and he never travels anywhere without his Bible."
This calendar is a secular one, so I found the comments interesting. Kenny Perry is a deacon in the Franklin Church of Christ. He donates 5% of his earnings to the David Lipscomb University golf team. Over the last few years, that would be in the neighborhood of $250,000-300,000 a year.
He was in the top ten in the world last year. Unfortunately, an off-season knee operation has reallly slowed him down this year.
_____________________________
Speaking of golf: Set your VCRs or TIVOs this week. RYDER CUP, baby! Friday through Sunday. I think I feel a three-day bug about to hit Friday morning.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Saturday Night Update
I appreciate so much the many calls and prayers on behalf of my father-in-law. As of Saturday night, he is doing better -- stable and improving. Please continue to keep Billie Jones in your prayers. Thank you so much!
Beverly plans to leave Tyler in the morning (Sunday) and be back in Decatur in time for Bible Class. Tomorrow afternoon, we will leave for Abilene. ACU has moved their lectures from February to September, and I will be teaching a class on Tuesday at 2 PM. I will be sharing my journey as an ACOA. I will also be presenting this information at church tomorrow morning. Please pray for me and for the hearts of those who are struggling with similar issues. I would love for the Lord to use this beyond just these two presentations.
Beverly and I plan on returning home Tuesday afternoon. I will blog again on Wednesday morning.
___________________
On a lighter note, I don't think any college team I wanted to win did on Saturday. Well, Texas did. But big deal. They were playing Rice.
Beverly plans to leave Tyler in the morning (Sunday) and be back in Decatur in time for Bible Class. Tomorrow afternoon, we will leave for Abilene. ACU has moved their lectures from February to September, and I will be teaching a class on Tuesday at 2 PM. I will be sharing my journey as an ACOA. I will also be presenting this information at church tomorrow morning. Please pray for me and for the hearts of those who are struggling with similar issues. I would love for the Lord to use this beyond just these two presentations.
Beverly and I plan on returning home Tuesday afternoon. I will blog again on Wednesday morning.
___________________
On a lighter note, I don't think any college team I wanted to win did on Saturday. Well, Texas did. But big deal. They were playing Rice.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Pray For Beverly's Dad
We received a call at about 7 this morning that Beverly's dad was being taken to the hospital. It seems that his blood pressure has dropped extremely low. He is in ICU. They called Beverly and told her she needs to come on down there.
Please be praying for Billie Jones today. He has been a tremendous influence in my life. He is perhaps the most honest man I have ever known. He is so ready to go to be with the Lord, and we selfishly want to hold on to him. Just pray that the Lord will do what is best. Thank you.
Please be praying for Billie Jones today. He has been a tremendous influence in my life. He is perhaps the most honest man I have ever known. He is so ready to go to be with the Lord, and we selfishly want to hold on to him. Just pray that the Lord will do what is best. Thank you.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
State Fair Time
Thanks to those who prayed for me last night. I feel like things went well. It's always encouraging to me to share my story and see how many people are relating to it.
Someone last night asked me if I was scared to share such personal information about myself. But, you know, every time I have shared it, the people have been incredible. Sure, there may be someone who goes away thinking, "A preacher who is admitting to depression? Sounds crazy." (no pun intended). But you know -- it just doesn't matter to me any more. I want so much to help people, and God has given me this special avenue. So, I'm not real concerned about my reputation. If my story can help one person to break the shackles of depression, it has all been worth it.
Continue to keep me in your prayers.
_______________________________
I didn't know until this morning that Ann Richards had died. Agree with her politics or not, she was an interesting woman. Certainly had a lot of spunk.
_______________________________
The state fair opens soon. This has become an annual event for Beverly and Malaya and me. (We let David and Jenny come along, too.) I usually try whatever fried concoction is the "in" thing for that year. Last year's fried peanut butter and banana sandwich wasn't bad. Beverly has to have a corn dog and Malaya has to have cotton candy. Of course, a funnel cake and potato curl is a must to share as well.
Any favorites out there?
Someone last night asked me if I was scared to share such personal information about myself. But, you know, every time I have shared it, the people have been incredible. Sure, there may be someone who goes away thinking, "A preacher who is admitting to depression? Sounds crazy." (no pun intended). But you know -- it just doesn't matter to me any more. I want so much to help people, and God has given me this special avenue. So, I'm not real concerned about my reputation. If my story can help one person to break the shackles of depression, it has all been worth it.
Continue to keep me in your prayers.
_______________________________
I didn't know until this morning that Ann Richards had died. Agree with her politics or not, she was an interesting woman. Certainly had a lot of spunk.
_______________________________
The state fair opens soon. This has become an annual event for Beverly and Malaya and me. (We let David and Jenny come along, too.) I usually try whatever fried concoction is the "in" thing for that year. Last year's fried peanut butter and banana sandwich wasn't bad. Beverly has to have a corn dog and Malaya has to have cotton candy. Of course, a funnel cake and potato curl is a must to share as well.
Any favorites out there?
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Please Pray for Me Tonight
For a couple of weeks, I have really been obsessed with getting my thoughts together for what I will be sharing at ACU Lectureship next Tuesday. Well, I finally got finished yesterday. I have been asked to share this same information tonight at the Saturn Road Church of Christ. I will be sharing about what it is like to be an ACOA (Adult Child of an Alcoholic). It is amazing how every time I talk on this subject, there will be a number of people who share similar struggles. I want to provide tools for people to be able to overcome.
Please pray that the Lord will use my words beyond simply tonight or ACU.
___________________________
I hope you don't get tired of reading quotes from things I have read. It's just that some days, they hit me so powerfully that I feel compelled to share them. Here is more from Yancey:
He quotes Eugene O'Neill: "Man is born broken. He lives by mending. The grace of God is glue."
Later, he observes: Strangely, God is closer to sinners than to "saints." (By saints I mean those people renowned for their piety -- true saints never lose sight of their sinfulness.) As one lecturer in spirituality explains it, "God in heaven holds each person by a string. When you sin, you cut the string. THen God ties it up agains, making a knot -- and thereby bringing you a little closer to him. Again and again your sins cut the string -- and with each further knot God keeps drawing you closer and closer."
Please pray that the Lord will use my words beyond simply tonight or ACU.
___________________________
I hope you don't get tired of reading quotes from things I have read. It's just that some days, they hit me so powerfully that I feel compelled to share them. Here is more from Yancey:
He quotes Eugene O'Neill: "Man is born broken. He lives by mending. The grace of God is glue."
Later, he observes: Strangely, God is closer to sinners than to "saints." (By saints I mean those people renowned for their piety -- true saints never lose sight of their sinfulness.) As one lecturer in spirituality explains it, "God in heaven holds each person by a string. When you sin, you cut the string. THen God ties it up agains, making a knot -- and thereby bringing you a little closer to him. Again and again your sins cut the string -- and with each further knot God keeps drawing you closer and closer."
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Five Years Ago Today
Today is my oldest son, Josh's, birthday. Hard to believe he is 26. I am so proud of him. The degree he recently earned was quite an achievement. I feel like a dummy when we talk theology -- like a 1st grader talking with an expert. But not because of anything he does to make me feel that way. He is so humble -- about most things. Just kidding. He is a spiritually humble and compassionate man. Every Sunday morning, I can count on a phone call from him at about 8:30 to tell me that he is praying for his dad.
His 21st birthday was extra-special. It was the day after 9-11. Beverly and I were living in Forney at that time, and he and his girlfriend had come for a visit. Why they were there on September 12 (a Wednesday) when school was going on, I don't know. I'm sure that he never cut a class. But anyway, he and Kayci left for a while -- supposedly to go to a concert, if I remember right. A little while later, they came back to the house. Kayci had a ring! They were engaged! And we were so happy. So, last night when we were talking, Josh said, "Tomorrow is a special day for you and mom and me. For 26 years, I have brought joy into your life." I said, "Yes, most of the time. But especially 5 years ago -- when you brought Kayci Joy into our lives."
Happy Birthday, Buddy. You have given me so many good memories that I could never even begin to recount them here. I am really anticipating next May. That baby will be one lucky child.
His 21st birthday was extra-special. It was the day after 9-11. Beverly and I were living in Forney at that time, and he and his girlfriend had come for a visit. Why they were there on September 12 (a Wednesday) when school was going on, I don't know. I'm sure that he never cut a class. But anyway, he and Kayci left for a while -- supposedly to go to a concert, if I remember right. A little while later, they came back to the house. Kayci had a ring! They were engaged! And we were so happy. So, last night when we were talking, Josh said, "Tomorrow is a special day for you and mom and me. For 26 years, I have brought joy into your life." I said, "Yes, most of the time. But especially 5 years ago -- when you brought Kayci Joy into our lives."
Happy Birthday, Buddy. You have given me so many good memories that I could never even begin to recount them here. I am really anticipating next May. That baby will be one lucky child.
Monday, September 11, 2006
9-11 Revisited
There are moments in time that are indelibly printed on my mind. I can remember where I was, and details about my surroundings. It's almost like I can project myself back into those moments.
I can still vividly remember where I was on November 22, 1963. I was in my 2nd grade classroom when the teacher announced that President Kennedy had been shot in Dallas. School was dismissed, but we didn't go home to play. There was a somberness that fell over all of us -- even us 7 year olds.
I can remember when Martin Luther King was shot. I remember vividly the picture of his associates on the balcony of his hotel room, surrounding his fallen body -- and pointing to where the shots had come from.
I remember hearing of Bobby Kennedy's assassination. It was late in the evening, since we lived in Lexington, Kentucky at that time. As a 6th-grader, I could not comprehend why all these good men were being killed.
I remember where I was when both of the shuttle disasters took place. And I remember being in Junior High as we sat on pins and needles hoping that Apollo 13 would make it home safely.
Five years ago today, I remember so clearly where I was. A group of us from the Mesquite Church of Christ went once a year for a two-day golf outing where we played a Ryder Cup format. This particular year we were playing at a course close to Tyler, so we didn't stay overnight. We had played on Monday -- and had a great time. On Tuesday morning at about 7:45, I stood in our driveway waiting for a couple of the guys for our ride to Tyler. There was a little bit of a fall feel in the air.
When my friends drove up, I opened the door to get in. They had the radio on. Frank (the driver) said, "An airplane has just hit one of the World Trade Center towers. We had no idea at that time what the implications were. We had all seen pictures of the plane that hit the Empire State Building way back (in the 30s or 40s), and we just assumed that must have been what happened.
By the time we got to Tyler and walked in the clubhouse, I will never forget the look on the faces of everyone who was there. There was a feeling of numbness and disbelief. We looked up at the TV, and saw the towers smoking. Not long after arriving, the 1st tower collapsed.
I stayed glued to the TV for hours. I kept wondering what could cause human beings to hate so much. I struggled with the injustice of it all. I wondered what our response as a nation would be. And I prayed.
I continue to pray to this day that Islam -- that false system of faith that is anything but peaceful -- will collapse (look at any place in the world historically that they occupy and tell me where "peace" defines them). I pray that it will collapse just as those twin towers did (figuratively). I don't pray for it to collapse under violence -- but that it will simply implode because it is built on a false, sick foundation.
And I pray that we will never forget that day 5 years ago. God forbid that it ever happen again.
I can still vividly remember where I was on November 22, 1963. I was in my 2nd grade classroom when the teacher announced that President Kennedy had been shot in Dallas. School was dismissed, but we didn't go home to play. There was a somberness that fell over all of us -- even us 7 year olds.
I can remember when Martin Luther King was shot. I remember vividly the picture of his associates on the balcony of his hotel room, surrounding his fallen body -- and pointing to where the shots had come from.
I remember hearing of Bobby Kennedy's assassination. It was late in the evening, since we lived in Lexington, Kentucky at that time. As a 6th-grader, I could not comprehend why all these good men were being killed.
I remember where I was when both of the shuttle disasters took place. And I remember being in Junior High as we sat on pins and needles hoping that Apollo 13 would make it home safely.
Five years ago today, I remember so clearly where I was. A group of us from the Mesquite Church of Christ went once a year for a two-day golf outing where we played a Ryder Cup format. This particular year we were playing at a course close to Tyler, so we didn't stay overnight. We had played on Monday -- and had a great time. On Tuesday morning at about 7:45, I stood in our driveway waiting for a couple of the guys for our ride to Tyler. There was a little bit of a fall feel in the air.
When my friends drove up, I opened the door to get in. They had the radio on. Frank (the driver) said, "An airplane has just hit one of the World Trade Center towers. We had no idea at that time what the implications were. We had all seen pictures of the plane that hit the Empire State Building way back (in the 30s or 40s), and we just assumed that must have been what happened.
By the time we got to Tyler and walked in the clubhouse, I will never forget the look on the faces of everyone who was there. There was a feeling of numbness and disbelief. We looked up at the TV, and saw the towers smoking. Not long after arriving, the 1st tower collapsed.
I stayed glued to the TV for hours. I kept wondering what could cause human beings to hate so much. I struggled with the injustice of it all. I wondered what our response as a nation would be. And I prayed.
I continue to pray to this day that Islam -- that false system of faith that is anything but peaceful -- will collapse (look at any place in the world historically that they occupy and tell me where "peace" defines them). I pray that it will collapse just as those twin towers did (figuratively). I don't pray for it to collapse under violence -- but that it will simply implode because it is built on a false, sick foundation.
And I pray that we will never forget that day 5 years ago. God forbid that it ever happen again.
Friday, September 08, 2006
5 Years Already?
Last night I watched "Flight 93." I don't know about you, but the events of 9-11 are still too fresh for me. Hard to believe that the 5th anniversary is coming up on Monday. Oh, how I hope that we never forget that day. And I pray for wisdom for our leaders to do what would most be within the will of God to assure that we never experience anything like that again.
As I watched, my fleshly reaction was that we need to round up anyone remotely associated with terrorism and shot them. Then I got to thinking that they are doing what they do from similar emotions. They want to extract revenge for wrongs (real or perceived) done to them. That hardly excuses their cowardly and unconscionable methods in any way. But eye-for-eye is probably not the best way of ending this war of cultures.
And then it hit me, as I sat with Philip Yancey's What's So Amazing About Grace? on my lap: Those terrorists are as deserving of God's grace as I was / am. All humanity is in the same condition -- lost and in need of the cleansing blood of Jesus.
As I watched, my fleshly reaction was that we need to round up anyone remotely associated with terrorism and shot them. Then I got to thinking that they are doing what they do from similar emotions. They want to extract revenge for wrongs (real or perceived) done to them. That hardly excuses their cowardly and unconscionable methods in any way. But eye-for-eye is probably not the best way of ending this war of cultures.
And then it hit me, as I sat with Philip Yancey's What's So Amazing About Grace? on my lap: Those terrorists are as deserving of God's grace as I was / am. All humanity is in the same condition -- lost and in need of the cleansing blood of Jesus.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Reflections from Wednesday
Beverly and I received exciting news yesterday. And since she has been shouting it from the rooftops (even wrote a blog -- her 3rd this week!), probably all of you know by now. But I still want to say it. Our third grandbaby is on the way! That's right! My favorite oldest son and my favorite oldest daughter-in-law are going to have a baby! Due date: May 5th. My thought right now is this: Bless Kayci's heart. She will be raising two kids (just kidding, favorite oldest son).
Our 1st men's class went really well last night. We are using Being God's Man in the Face of Temptation as a guide for our studies. The book identifies 8 temptations that men face, and shows how James addresses these 8 issues. The men last night really interacted well, and I was glad to see a number of grayer heads in there. I look forward to them sharing from their life experiences so that maybe others can learn from their successes and avoid their mistakes.
Speaking of grayer heads, Ray Foster told me something funny the other day. He said there are three stages in life: young, middle-aged and "You're looking good."
On a similar thought: On Thursday mornings, I go out to Governor's Ridge (an assisted care facility here in Decatur) and lead a Bible study. At about 9:45, I will tell Joy, our secretary, " I'm going to the nursing home." Jacob (the youth minister that I bragged about yesterday) will say, "I'll come visit you" -- or some other smart-aleck response. I'm gonna have to slap that boy.
Our 1st men's class went really well last night. We are using Being God's Man in the Face of Temptation as a guide for our studies. The book identifies 8 temptations that men face, and shows how James addresses these 8 issues. The men last night really interacted well, and I was glad to see a number of grayer heads in there. I look forward to them sharing from their life experiences so that maybe others can learn from their successes and avoid their mistakes.
Speaking of grayer heads, Ray Foster told me something funny the other day. He said there are three stages in life: young, middle-aged and "You're looking good."
On a similar thought: On Thursday mornings, I go out to Governor's Ridge (an assisted care facility here in Decatur) and lead a Bible study. At about 9:45, I will tell Joy, our secretary, " I'm going to the nursing home." Jacob (the youth minister that I bragged about yesterday) will say, "I'll come visit you" -- or some other smart-aleck response. I'm gonna have to slap that boy.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Special People
I've just come from the hospital. Jerry Nicholas is having a series of stress tests today. Jerry has become one of my heroes. He is battling cancer, and has been dealing with the difficulty of chemo treatments for about a year. Sunday right after worship, it appears as if he might have had a heart attack. I have visited him several times since Sunday, and never heard a word of complaining. He and his wife, Anna, have dealt with blow after blow in the year and a half I have known them. Any one of the blows would have devastated many. But they just keep on going -- and enjoying life as it unfolds for them.
Back in May, while in the midst of chemo, etc. -- Jerry (who also has a prosthetic leg) played in our church golf tournament. He came within about an inch of a hole in one, thus obviously winning our closest-to-the-hole prize.
Pray for Jerry and Anna.
Last night, Beverly and I went to Jacob and Heather Baker's for supper. We had a wonderful meal with them. It is an incredible blessing to work with such a couple in ministy. When we left last night, Beverly said, "They are such an easy couple." And they are. I am thankful to be able to come to the office each day and share time with Jacob. Yesterday afternoon he and I went out and played golf. It was a wonderful day. The temperature was just right. The golf course was beautiful. And the company was ideal.
I count my blessings today to have such people as the Nicholases and Bakers in my life.
Back in May, while in the midst of chemo, etc. -- Jerry (who also has a prosthetic leg) played in our church golf tournament. He came within about an inch of a hole in one, thus obviously winning our closest-to-the-hole prize.
Pray for Jerry and Anna.
Last night, Beverly and I went to Jacob and Heather Baker's for supper. We had a wonderful meal with them. It is an incredible blessing to work with such a couple in ministy. When we left last night, Beverly said, "They are such an easy couple." And they are. I am thankful to be able to come to the office each day and share time with Jacob. Yesterday afternoon he and I went out and played golf. It was a wonderful day. The temperature was just right. The golf course was beautiful. And the company was ideal.
I count my blessings today to have such people as the Nicholases and Bakers in my life.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Just Stuff
Another week on the PGA tour, and another TIger win. I read that this year he is averaging $2,500 per shot! What a tough way to make a living. That sounds funny. The guy makes about $80 million a year!
Early prognosticators said this would be a violent hurricane season. So far, it has been a whimper -- thank the Lord. I realize we still have a while left in hurricane season. But let's hope the trend continues.
Yesterday was so nice here! It rained all day. Not heavy (we only got about an inch at my house). But is was steady from morning until evening. And the temperatures for the last few days have been incredible!
I was saddened to hear about Steve Irwin's death. I started watching "the crocodile hunter" when Jonathan was still home. At first I thought, "This guy is a nut!" But he really was a contagious personality. Jonathan was stung by a stingray on his foot when he and Jennifer were on their honeymoon. He got so sick that Jennifer thought she might be a widow after only a few days of marriage. But Irwin's sting was to his heart. So sad.
Question of the day: Will the Longhorns beat the Buckeyes on Saturday?
Early prognosticators said this would be a violent hurricane season. So far, it has been a whimper -- thank the Lord. I realize we still have a while left in hurricane season. But let's hope the trend continues.
Yesterday was so nice here! It rained all day. Not heavy (we only got about an inch at my house). But is was steady from morning until evening. And the temperatures for the last few days have been incredible!
I was saddened to hear about Steve Irwin's death. I started watching "the crocodile hunter" when Jonathan was still home. At first I thought, "This guy is a nut!" But he really was a contagious personality. Jonathan was stung by a stingray on his foot when he and Jennifer were on their honeymoon. He got so sick that Jennifer thought she might be a widow after only a few days of marriage. But Irwin's sting was to his heart. So sad.
Question of the day: Will the Longhorns beat the Buckeyes on Saturday?
Friday, September 01, 2006
I Pledge Allegiance to What Kingdom?
As I have become obsessed with the idea that we Christians are a counterculture, I have become more aware of how much of the current Christian lingo is tied to politics. Some people today think one cannot be a Christian unless they are aligned with a particular American political party. Yet, I know people in both major political parties who walk with Jesus.
So, Yancey grabbed my attention with both hands yesterday. I assume you know how morally vile the Roman Empire of the 1st century was. Listen to Yancey:
"The apostle Paul had much to say about the immorality of individual church members but little to say about the immorality of pagan Rome. He rarely railed against the abuses in Rome -- slavery, idolatry, violent games, political oppression, greed -- even though such abuses surely offended Christians of that day as much as our deteriorating society offends Christians today."
He then mentions how Romans would give birth to full-term babies, and -- if undesired -- would leave them to die. He tells about the common practice of older men keeping young boys as sex slaves. Then he adds, "Jesus and Paul doubtless knew of these deplorable practices . . . Both concentrated not on the pagan kingdom around them but on the alternative kingdom of God."
"For this reason, I wonder about the enormous energy being devoted these days to restoring morality in the United States. Are we concentrating more on the kingdom of this world than on the kingdom that is not of this world? The public image of the evangelical church today is practically defined by an emphasis on two issues that Jesus did not even mention. How will we feel if historians of the future look back on the evangelical church of the 1990s and declare, "They fought bravely on the moral fronts of abortion and homosexual rights," while at the same time reporting that we did little to fulfill the Great Commission, and we did little to spread the aroma of grace in the world?"
So, Yancey grabbed my attention with both hands yesterday. I assume you know how morally vile the Roman Empire of the 1st century was. Listen to Yancey:
"The apostle Paul had much to say about the immorality of individual church members but little to say about the immorality of pagan Rome. He rarely railed against the abuses in Rome -- slavery, idolatry, violent games, political oppression, greed -- even though such abuses surely offended Christians of that day as much as our deteriorating society offends Christians today."
He then mentions how Romans would give birth to full-term babies, and -- if undesired -- would leave them to die. He tells about the common practice of older men keeping young boys as sex slaves. Then he adds, "Jesus and Paul doubtless knew of these deplorable practices . . . Both concentrated not on the pagan kingdom around them but on the alternative kingdom of God."
"For this reason, I wonder about the enormous energy being devoted these days to restoring morality in the United States. Are we concentrating more on the kingdom of this world than on the kingdom that is not of this world? The public image of the evangelical church today is practically defined by an emphasis on two issues that Jesus did not even mention. How will we feel if historians of the future look back on the evangelical church of the 1990s and declare, "They fought bravely on the moral fronts of abortion and homosexual rights," while at the same time reporting that we did little to fulfill the Great Commission, and we did little to spread the aroma of grace in the world?"
Thursday, August 31, 2006
The Power of Pornography
It was so good to have Ron Carlson here to speak in Decatur last night. He is one of the most sincere Christians I have ever known. He is such a lover of people. I wish I had his energy, too.
After church, we went to Brahm's for ice cream. Ron told me that he is going to spend 5 weeks speaking about the epidemic of sexual sin. We got to talking about how many preachers we know who have been taken down by this weapon of Satan's. Ron has also been doing a lot of research on internet pornography. He said research shows that 60% of Christian men visit a porn site every day! He also told me that the NFL, in their recent renegotiations, had to drop their asking price because viewership is down. Why? Because men in the target audience (age 15-34) are on porn sites rather than watching the games.
Why would we choose to do that which will destroy relationships and rot our souls? Because Satan knows how to wrap up poison to make it look good.
Next Wednesday night, we will begin our men's class again here at church. I think I know what our topic will be.
After church, we went to Brahm's for ice cream. Ron told me that he is going to spend 5 weeks speaking about the epidemic of sexual sin. We got to talking about how many preachers we know who have been taken down by this weapon of Satan's. Ron has also been doing a lot of research on internet pornography. He said research shows that 60% of Christian men visit a porn site every day! He also told me that the NFL, in their recent renegotiations, had to drop their asking price because viewership is down. Why? Because men in the target audience (age 15-34) are on porn sites rather than watching the games.
Why would we choose to do that which will destroy relationships and rot our souls? Because Satan knows how to wrap up poison to make it look good.
Next Wednesday night, we will begin our men's class again here at church. I think I know what our topic will be.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Fall is Just Around the Corner
The cooler weather over the last couple of days and nights has been invigorating. I left the house this morning right at daybreak, and it felt so good!
We are entering my favorite season of the year. I love the Fall (not the Adam and Eve one, but the season). After a long Texas summer, it is refreshing. I love the changing of the leaves. I love the cool nights. High school football. College game day. I used to live for hunting season. Even now, I have such vivid memories of sitting in the woods on a crisp autumn morning.
I imagine most people are "Spring" people. I like Spring, but it is too much of a reminder of the long summer to come.
How about you? Submit your vote. Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter? I guess I don't need to put winter. We don't have one in Texas.
We are entering my favorite season of the year. I love the Fall (not the Adam and Eve one, but the season). After a long Texas summer, it is refreshing. I love the changing of the leaves. I love the cool nights. High school football. College game day. I used to live for hunting season. Even now, I have such vivid memories of sitting in the woods on a crisp autumn morning.
I imagine most people are "Spring" people. I like Spring, but it is too much of a reminder of the long summer to come.
How about you? Submit your vote. Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter? I guess I don't need to put winter. We don't have one in Texas.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
I Want To Be Like Jesus!
I was reading Philip Yancey yesterday and came across this. I hope it means as much to you as it did to me.
A phrase used by both Peter and Paul has become one of my favorite images from the New Testament. We are to administer, or "dispense," God's grace, say the two apostles. The image brings to mind one of the old-fashioned "atomizers" women used before the perfection of spray technology. Squeeze a rubber bulb, and droplets of perfume come shooting out of the fine holes at the other end. A few drops suffice for a whole body; a few pumps change the atmosphere in a room. That is how grace shouuld work, I think. It does not convert the entire world or an entire society, but it does enrich the atmosphere.
Now I worry that the prevailing image of Christians has changed from that of a perfume atomizer to a different spray apparatus: the kind used by insect exterminators. There's a roach! Pump, spray, pump, spray. There's a spot of evil! Pump, spray, pump, spray. Some Christians I know have taken on the task of "moral exterminator" for the evil-infested society around them.
I share a deep concern for our society. I am struck, though, by the alternative power of mercy as demonstrated by Jesus, who came for the sick and not the well, for the sinners and not the righteous. Jesus never countenanced evil, but he did stand ready to forgive it. Somehow, he gained the reputation as a lover of sinners, a reputation that his followers are in danger of losing today. As Dorothy Day put it, "I really only love God as much as I love the person I love the least."
A phrase used by both Peter and Paul has become one of my favorite images from the New Testament. We are to administer, or "dispense," God's grace, say the two apostles. The image brings to mind one of the old-fashioned "atomizers" women used before the perfection of spray technology. Squeeze a rubber bulb, and droplets of perfume come shooting out of the fine holes at the other end. A few drops suffice for a whole body; a few pumps change the atmosphere in a room. That is how grace shouuld work, I think. It does not convert the entire world or an entire society, but it does enrich the atmosphere.
Now I worry that the prevailing image of Christians has changed from that of a perfume atomizer to a different spray apparatus: the kind used by insect exterminators. There's a roach! Pump, spray, pump, spray. There's a spot of evil! Pump, spray, pump, spray. Some Christians I know have taken on the task of "moral exterminator" for the evil-infested society around them.
I share a deep concern for our society. I am struck, though, by the alternative power of mercy as demonstrated by Jesus, who came for the sick and not the well, for the sinners and not the righteous. Jesus never countenanced evil, but he did stand ready to forgive it. Somehow, he gained the reputation as a lover of sinners, a reputation that his followers are in danger of losing today. As Dorothy Day put it, "I really only love God as much as I love the person I love the least."
Monday, August 28, 2006
Monday Morning Ramblings
Just a quick Monday morning blog. Ho-hum, Tiger won again -- with his "C" game.
Last night was great! My sweetie got home. Beverly had left Wednesday night to go be with her mom as she had surgery on Thursday morning. Then she stayed for a few days to assist her mom and dad. I do OK when she is away -- for about 6 hours. So I was really glad to see her safely home last night.
And it's raining! Thank you, Lord. Over the last few weeks, we have been getting about a half in to an inch a week. It has been so good for our lawns! And it is so refreshing. But Lord, our reservoirs need a tropical depression to camp out here for a couple of days.
____________________________
A couple of months back, the Cowboys signed T.O. I said at the time that it was the last straw for me. People said that I ought to give T.O a chance. They said that he had changed. Well, it's looking like he is well on the way to destroying a third team. And it's a shame, because it looks like the Cowboys could be competitive. What a waste.
Last night was great! My sweetie got home. Beverly had left Wednesday night to go be with her mom as she had surgery on Thursday morning. Then she stayed for a few days to assist her mom and dad. I do OK when she is away -- for about 6 hours. So I was really glad to see her safely home last night.
And it's raining! Thank you, Lord. Over the last few weeks, we have been getting about a half in to an inch a week. It has been so good for our lawns! And it is so refreshing. But Lord, our reservoirs need a tropical depression to camp out here for a couple of days.
____________________________
A couple of months back, the Cowboys signed T.O. I said at the time that it was the last straw for me. People said that I ought to give T.O a chance. They said that he had changed. Well, it's looking like he is well on the way to destroying a third team. And it's a shame, because it looks like the Cowboys could be competitive. What a waste.
Friday, August 25, 2006
A Mixed Bag
Beverly's mom's surgery went well yesterday. Beverly will stay down there for a few days. I sure miss her when we are apart.
___________________________
Well, the oil companies are pulling another one. This is one area I admit to being especially cynical about, but having worked for one years ago I know how they play their game. Last report was that our inventories were up. So, the prices have been coming down for the last couple of weeks. Well, this morning they are headed back up. Why? Because of concerns over a hurricane. Huh? Could it be that they are simply playing on the pubiic's memories from Katrina -- which was forming this time last year? The current storm that is now in the Atlantic, Debby, is expected to take a hairpin turn and never approach the US.
___________________________
Lately, I have been thinking a lot about the growth of Islam in our world. Islam means "submission." Publicly, they claim to be peace-loving. However, as I look at the world globe -- anywhere they inhabit is anything but peaceful. The Koran calls for imposing "submission to Allah" upon the world. If it is only the radical, fundamentalists who are violent and who foster terrorism, why hasn't any moderate voice come out to speak against them?
What do you think? Are Moslems, in general, peace-loving and tolerant people. Or could it be that they are presenting one face to us to try to keep us complacent while building toward something sinister (ala Nazi Germany).
___________________________
Well, the oil companies are pulling another one. This is one area I admit to being especially cynical about, but having worked for one years ago I know how they play their game. Last report was that our inventories were up. So, the prices have been coming down for the last couple of weeks. Well, this morning they are headed back up. Why? Because of concerns over a hurricane. Huh? Could it be that they are simply playing on the pubiic's memories from Katrina -- which was forming this time last year? The current storm that is now in the Atlantic, Debby, is expected to take a hairpin turn and never approach the US.
___________________________
Lately, I have been thinking a lot about the growth of Islam in our world. Islam means "submission." Publicly, they claim to be peace-loving. However, as I look at the world globe -- anywhere they inhabit is anything but peaceful. The Koran calls for imposing "submission to Allah" upon the world. If it is only the radical, fundamentalists who are violent and who foster terrorism, why hasn't any moderate voice come out to speak against them?
What do you think? Are Moslems, in general, peace-loving and tolerant people. Or could it be that they are presenting one face to us to try to keep us complacent while building toward something sinister (ala Nazi Germany).
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Who Compares to Tiger?
While Beverly and I were gone on our trip, Tiger Woods won his 12th major. He is 3 years ahead of Jack Nickaus' record major pace of 18. He totally dominates the game of golf today. In the world golf rankings (a weird formula), he has lapped the field. His ranking is 19+. Phil Michelson is second at 9+. Tiger is further ahead of number two than number two is ahead of the very last place. He is a stud.
I know that there are those who would argue that golfers are not athletes. When I look at Tim Herron or John Daly (even Phil looks like he is spending more time with the ice cream than on the practice range), I am tempted to agree. But you would be hard-pressed to say that Tiger Woods is not an athlete. As one writer in this morning's Dallas Morning News said, I find it hard to believe Tiger would not have excelled at any sport he set his mind to.
So, here is your challenge: Who even comes close to dominating his / her sport (game) like Tiger Woods. (And those who use body-enhancing drugs don't count).
___________________________________
On another note: Beverly's mom is having knee surgery this morning. Please keep her and the family in your prayers.
I know that there are those who would argue that golfers are not athletes. When I look at Tim Herron or John Daly (even Phil looks like he is spending more time with the ice cream than on the practice range), I am tempted to agree. But you would be hard-pressed to say that Tiger Woods is not an athlete. As one writer in this morning's Dallas Morning News said, I find it hard to believe Tiger would not have excelled at any sport he set his mind to.
So, here is your challenge: Who even comes close to dominating his / her sport (game) like Tiger Woods. (And those who use body-enhancing drugs don't count).
___________________________________
On another note: Beverly's mom is having knee surgery this morning. Please keep her and the family in your prayers.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
The Journey
Enjoy this quote from Tozer, and may your journey today be blessed.
O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.
--Jeremiah 10:23
The prophet here turns to a figure of speech, one which appears in the Scriptures so frequently that it is not easy to remember that it is but a figure. Man is seen as a traveler making his difficult way from a past he can but imperfectly recollect into a future about which he knows nothing. And he cannot stay, but must each morning strike his moving tent and journey on toward--and there is the heavy problem--toward what?
It is a simple axiom of the traveler that if he would arrive at the desired destination he must take the right road. How far a man may have traveled is not important; what matters is whether or not he is going the right way, whether the path he is following will bring him out at the right place at last. Sometimes there will be an end to the road, and maybe sooner than he knows; but when he has gone the last step of the way will he find himself in a tomorrow of light and peace, or will the day toward which he journeys be "a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness"?
The Set of the Sail, pp. 105-106
O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.
--Jeremiah 10:23
The prophet here turns to a figure of speech, one which appears in the Scriptures so frequently that it is not easy to remember that it is but a figure. Man is seen as a traveler making his difficult way from a past he can but imperfectly recollect into a future about which he knows nothing. And he cannot stay, but must each morning strike his moving tent and journey on toward--and there is the heavy problem--toward what?
It is a simple axiom of the traveler that if he would arrive at the desired destination he must take the right road. How far a man may have traveled is not important; what matters is whether or not he is going the right way, whether the path he is following will bring him out at the right place at last. Sometimes there will be an end to the road, and maybe sooner than he knows; but when he has gone the last step of the way will he find himself in a tomorrow of light and peace, or will the day toward which he journeys be "a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness"?
The Set of the Sail, pp. 105-106
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
What Ever Happened to Common Sense and Manners?
Yesterday I shared about our wonderful trip to the Northeast. Today, I want to make some cynical observations (with my tongue half planted in my cheek).
I know we are not to judge other people's motives. Still, I sometimes struggle with that. Such as, on an airplane -- right before taxiing or right after landing, what's with those few people who want to talk on their cell phones so loudly that no one around them can think? I truly believe I have a sign on my back that only such people can see. It says: "Please speak loudly on your cell phone when in my presence." Whether it is an airplane seat or a movie theater -- I will inevitably be seated right next to or in front of this person. Maybe I'm just not "with the times" -- but it seems to be such boorish behavior.
And what's with no manners these days? I'm on an elevator or on the subway. I go to get off. But before I can get off -- a pack of four or five people want to get on. Uh, is it just me, or doesn't it just make common sense that those getting on should first allow people to get off? "Let's all pack into this elevator and see how difficult we can make it for you to then weave your way out."
One last one. We live in America! In America, you travel on the right. Why, whether walking on a sidewalk or down an aisle or some other confined space, do people walk down the left -- and expect others to just stop in thier steps to avoid a collision?
Just some observations. I'm thinking about preaching on this, once I can come up with a Scripture that will support me.
I know we are not to judge other people's motives. Still, I sometimes struggle with that. Such as, on an airplane -- right before taxiing or right after landing, what's with those few people who want to talk on their cell phones so loudly that no one around them can think? I truly believe I have a sign on my back that only such people can see. It says: "Please speak loudly on your cell phone when in my presence." Whether it is an airplane seat or a movie theater -- I will inevitably be seated right next to or in front of this person. Maybe I'm just not "with the times" -- but it seems to be such boorish behavior.
And what's with no manners these days? I'm on an elevator or on the subway. I go to get off. But before I can get off -- a pack of four or five people want to get on. Uh, is it just me, or doesn't it just make common sense that those getting on should first allow people to get off? "Let's all pack into this elevator and see how difficult we can make it for you to then weave your way out."
One last one. We live in America! In America, you travel on the right. Why, whether walking on a sidewalk or down an aisle or some other confined space, do people walk down the left -- and expect others to just stop in thier steps to avoid a collision?
Just some observations. I'm thinking about preaching on this, once I can come up with a Scripture that will support me.
Monday, August 21, 2006
What a Trip!
We are back. What a great 30th anniverary trip! We left cool weather and arrived home at about 11 PM last night. It was much hotter at that hour than we experienced on our trip.
We were in Boston on Monday and Tuesday. We spent a whole day on the Freedom Trail. It was very interesting reliving the history of the Revolution and seeing cemeteries with markers from the 1600s. Especially interesting was North Church -- where the lanterns were placed in the window for Paul Revere. Inside the church, the pews are petitioned so that each family sat by themselves in little cubicles. The more they paid for their seats, the CLOSER to the front. Interesting.
On Wednesday, we went on a whale-watch. A boat took us about 20 miles out into the Atlantic where we saw about 20 humpback whales. It was really cool! That night we stayed in a bed-and-breakfast in Marblehead, Mass. We slept in the same bed as Keith Richards had slept in! And we didn't even get high!
Thursday, we toured the Crane Estate in Ipswitch. It was unbelievable! A summer home used only a couple of weeks a year back in the early 19th century -- but it is incredible! Mrs. Crane didn't like the first mansion they built, so Mr. Crane had it leveled and built this beautiful home. The grounds were absolutely beautiful.
That night we stayed in Kennebunk at a quant b-and-b. It was built in the late 1600s, and had been a hiding place for the underground railroad. We slept with the windows open that night -- no AC necessary.
Friday we drove up the coast of Maine and viewed the gorgeous coastline (a couple of beautiful lighthouses). Then we cut over into New Hampshire and drove through the White Mountains. Wow! Mountain streams. Beautiful trees. It was great. Then,we drove down into the Lakes Region. We drove around the lake where "On Golden Pond" was filmed. We stopped and got an ice cream cone and sat in the twilight looking over the lake.
Saturday we went back to Boston and took in a few more sights and did a little shopping. We drove around Harvard University. ACU has it beat!
Then, Sunday we drove around Fenway Park. Wow! It is a city within a city. And we toured the JFK Presidential Library. Another opportunity to relive some history that we actually did experience (though very young, I might add). The library sits on the Bay looking out into the Atlantic and overlooking the city of Boston. Definitely a Kodak moment.
It's good to be home. But it was a delightful way to spend a 30th anniversary.
Oh, yeah, the seafood was delicious. I had never eaten clam chowder. I think I had it every day on the trip. Delicious!
We were in Boston on Monday and Tuesday. We spent a whole day on the Freedom Trail. It was very interesting reliving the history of the Revolution and seeing cemeteries with markers from the 1600s. Especially interesting was North Church -- where the lanterns were placed in the window for Paul Revere. Inside the church, the pews are petitioned so that each family sat by themselves in little cubicles. The more they paid for their seats, the CLOSER to the front. Interesting.
On Wednesday, we went on a whale-watch. A boat took us about 20 miles out into the Atlantic where we saw about 20 humpback whales. It was really cool! That night we stayed in a bed-and-breakfast in Marblehead, Mass. We slept in the same bed as Keith Richards had slept in! And we didn't even get high!
Thursday, we toured the Crane Estate in Ipswitch. It was unbelievable! A summer home used only a couple of weeks a year back in the early 19th century -- but it is incredible! Mrs. Crane didn't like the first mansion they built, so Mr. Crane had it leveled and built this beautiful home. The grounds were absolutely beautiful.
That night we stayed in Kennebunk at a quant b-and-b. It was built in the late 1600s, and had been a hiding place for the underground railroad. We slept with the windows open that night -- no AC necessary.
Friday we drove up the coast of Maine and viewed the gorgeous coastline (a couple of beautiful lighthouses). Then we cut over into New Hampshire and drove through the White Mountains. Wow! Mountain streams. Beautiful trees. It was great. Then,we drove down into the Lakes Region. We drove around the lake where "On Golden Pond" was filmed. We stopped and got an ice cream cone and sat in the twilight looking over the lake.
Saturday we went back to Boston and took in a few more sights and did a little shopping. We drove around Harvard University. ACU has it beat!
Then, Sunday we drove around Fenway Park. Wow! It is a city within a city. And we toured the JFK Presidential Library. Another opportunity to relive some history that we actually did experience (though very young, I might add). The library sits on the Bay looking out into the Atlantic and overlooking the city of Boston. Definitely a Kodak moment.
It's good to be home. But it was a delightful way to spend a 30th anniversary.
Oh, yeah, the seafood was delicious. I had never eaten clam chowder. I think I had it every day on the trip. Delicious!
Friday, August 11, 2006
Prayer Walk
Moments ago, Beverly and I completed our church's prayer walk. It was absolutely incredible! The goal is to have someone in our church praying for our young people (school age) for the next 24 hours. The room is set up in 10 stages, and at each stage we prayed for different children by name. We prayed for specifics -- for them to be light, for them to overcome temptation, for them to share Jesus, etc. It was a quick 30 minutes, and one of the coolest prayer times I have been a part of. Thank you to Jacob and Heather Baker and Tonya Hamilton for coming up with this great idea and for setting up the room in such an inviting way. If you read this blog today and have not signed up, call Jacob at the office. You won't be sorry.
On Monday morning, Beverly and I will be flying to Boston to spend a week together celebrating our 30th anniversary. We will spend a couple of days in Boston, and then drive up the coast into Maine. From there we will drive over into New Hampshire, and then return to Boston. I am really looking forward to the cooler weather! Highs in Boston this week have been in the upper 70s and low 80s. I will try to blog some while we are gone. Please do pray for our safety.
On Monday morning, Beverly and I will be flying to Boston to spend a week together celebrating our 30th anniversary. We will spend a couple of days in Boston, and then drive up the coast into Maine. From there we will drive over into New Hampshire, and then return to Boston. I am really looking forward to the cooler weather! Highs in Boston this week have been in the upper 70s and low 80s. I will try to blog some while we are gone. Please do pray for our safety.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Yes, I Have Been to Paris
Beverly and I made it home late last night from Paris (just saying that makes me feel like a jet-setter). The church there was very interesting. It dates back to around the Civil War. On one wall they have pictures of all of their preachers. It was like taking a tour through the American Restoration Movement. F. D. Srygley, J. W. McGarvey, Foy Wallace, Sr -- and several others I cannot remember at the moment.
We had a nice evening there. The preacher, Patrick Cannon, seems like a fine, young man. He and his wife were very helpful. It was also good to see Roy and Anna Bolton. Roy was one of the elders who hired me when I went to the Mesquite church in 1993. After services last night, we went to Brahm's with them and did a little reminiscing. He and I laughed as we recalled after I had been at Mesquite for a while. That church was a good, stable church -- but it had a handful of people who were malcontents. To some extent, it was driven by at least one elder. In fact, two elders (including the one just mentioned) resigned within the first two weeks I was there -- throwing things into an uproar.
So, after I had been there a while, I remember asking Roy, "Roy, during the interview process, I asked you elders if there was any tension in the eldership and you told me 'no.' Why?" Give him credit for his frankness. He said, "If we had told you that, you wouldn't have come."
We had a nice evening there. The preacher, Patrick Cannon, seems like a fine, young man. He and his wife were very helpful. It was also good to see Roy and Anna Bolton. Roy was one of the elders who hired me when I went to the Mesquite church in 1993. After services last night, we went to Brahm's with them and did a little reminiscing. He and I laughed as we recalled after I had been at Mesquite for a while. That church was a good, stable church -- but it had a handful of people who were malcontents. To some extent, it was driven by at least one elder. In fact, two elders (including the one just mentioned) resigned within the first two weeks I was there -- throwing things into an uproar.
So, after I had been there a while, I remember asking Roy, "Roy, during the interview process, I asked you elders if there was any tension in the eldership and you told me 'no.' Why?" Give him credit for his frankness. He said, "If we had told you that, you wouldn't have come."
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Forgiveness
Today, it's off to East Texas where I will be speaking at the Lamar Avenue Church of Christ this evening. Still waiting for that call to Del Rio (see yesterday's blog).
On the way home from our Texas tour over the weekend, the air conditioner in my car went out. Yesterday was a slap of reality as I got bids on repairing it. The best bid? $1,200! So, if you see me over the next few weeks and I smell like I've been outside working, you will know why. Even the 5 minute drive home from the office works up a pretty good sweat.
I'm re-reading Philip Yancey's book, What's So Amazing About Grace. Yancey scares me because he thinks so much like I do at times. It's like he expresses what is in my head and heart. Listen to what he says about forgiving:
"By forgiving another, I am trusting that God is a better justice-maker than I am. By forgiving, I release my own right to get even and leave all issues of fairness for God to work out . . . Such a decision involves risk, of course: the risk that God may not deal with the person as I would want . . .I never find forgiveness easy, and rarely do I find it completelly satisfying. Nagging injustices remain, and the wounds still cause pain. I have to approach God again and again, yielding to him the residue of what I thought I had committed to him long ago." (p. 93)
It truly is a daily battle -- waiting for wounds to become scars.
On the way home from our Texas tour over the weekend, the air conditioner in my car went out. Yesterday was a slap of reality as I got bids on repairing it. The best bid? $1,200! So, if you see me over the next few weeks and I smell like I've been outside working, you will know why. Even the 5 minute drive home from the office works up a pretty good sweat.
I'm re-reading Philip Yancey's book, What's So Amazing About Grace. Yancey scares me because he thinks so much like I do at times. It's like he expresses what is in my head and heart. Listen to what he says about forgiving:
"By forgiving another, I am trusting that God is a better justice-maker than I am. By forgiving, I release my own right to get even and leave all issues of fairness for God to work out . . . Such a decision involves risk, of course: the risk that God may not deal with the person as I would want . . .I never find forgiveness easy, and rarely do I find it completelly satisfying. Nagging injustices remain, and the wounds still cause pain. I have to approach God again and again, yielding to him the residue of what I thought I had committed to him long ago." (p. 93)
It truly is a daily battle -- waiting for wounds to become scars.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Texas: It's a Bigggg State!
Beverly and I had a very interesting weekend. Friday morning, we headed out for Lovington, New Mexico -- where we were to do a retreat. We got about 5-1/2 hours away (nearly to Lamesa) when our gas light came on. So, we pulled over in a little town which had no gas stations. A kind lady who ran a little grocery store helped us get enough gas to get us to the next town.
Since this unexpected delay set us back on our arrival time, I decided to call my friend who ministers at the church in Lovington to tell him we were running late. He said, "Brother, you're not late. You're two weeks early." Yes, Rick Ross (mind like a steel-trap) had messed up the date.
So, Beverly and I turned around and pulled over on the side of the road. What do we do now? I got ahold of one of my elders by cellphone (Mike McDowell) and told him what had happened. After he quit laughing (actually, he was still snickering), I told him that I get two weekends a year for meetings and was only using one this year. And, since those covering for me had already made preparations, would it be OK for Beverly and me to go visit our kids in Houston. Mike was so gracious (although still laughing), and said of course.
We drove 5-1/2 hours back to Decatur. Then we got up Saturday morning and went to Houston. Got to spend time with our grandson. Got to spend one night with Josh and Kayci and went to church with them Sunday morning and heard him preach an excellent sermon on "The Table." Sunday evening, we went back to Jonathan and Jennifer's and spent the night. We were able to hear him lead worship (he is so good!) on Sunday night.
So, we went to West Texas. And we went to the Gulf Coast. Tomorrow night we head for Northeast Texas (Paris) -- where I will preach on their Wednesday night program. I guess all I need is a call to go to Del Rio, and we have covered the state.
Since this unexpected delay set us back on our arrival time, I decided to call my friend who ministers at the church in Lovington to tell him we were running late. He said, "Brother, you're not late. You're two weeks early." Yes, Rick Ross (mind like a steel-trap) had messed up the date.
So, Beverly and I turned around and pulled over on the side of the road. What do we do now? I got ahold of one of my elders by cellphone (Mike McDowell) and told him what had happened. After he quit laughing (actually, he was still snickering), I told him that I get two weekends a year for meetings and was only using one this year. And, since those covering for me had already made preparations, would it be OK for Beverly and me to go visit our kids in Houston. Mike was so gracious (although still laughing), and said of course.
We drove 5-1/2 hours back to Decatur. Then we got up Saturday morning and went to Houston. Got to spend time with our grandson. Got to spend one night with Josh and Kayci and went to church with them Sunday morning and heard him preach an excellent sermon on "The Table." Sunday evening, we went back to Jonathan and Jennifer's and spent the night. We were able to hear him lead worship (he is so good!) on Sunday night.
So, we went to West Texas. And we went to the Gulf Coast. Tomorrow night we head for Northeast Texas (Paris) -- where I will preach on their Wednesday night program. I guess all I need is a call to go to Del Rio, and we have covered the state.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
A Special Day
On August 3, 1978 the people of Albany, Texas (north of Abilene) were overwhelmed with 20 inches of rain. The Great Albany Flood. That same day, Beverly and I were overwhelmed with the birth of our oldest child. During Beverly's pregnancy (which she loved. I know you will find it surprising that she found joy in that), people would ask if we wanted a boy or a girl. I wished for a girl. And the Lord granted my wish.
It was still in the days where the father was not allowed back with the mother during delivery. So, when I finally got to hold that beautiful bundle, it was just unbelievable. She brought so much joy into our lives.
She was born with a voice like an angel. Her cry was soft -- almost considerate. But from the time she began to talk, she could sing on pitch. To this day, her voice gives me goosebumps.
So many wonderful memories. I loved rocking her to bed every night, and reading her bedtime stories. Butterfly kisses. Working puzzles. Icees. Going for walks. PIcking the "Ok-ok" (that's okra for you grown-ups) out of my garden.
Whenever we traveled, she would shout, "I see choo-choo train." And she would continue saying it until we said, "Yes, Jenny. It's a choo-choo train."
When she was in kindergarden, she came home from school with an assignment: Write a letter to Santa Claus. So, she and I sat down to write. I asked, "What would you like to say?" No response. I said, "How about let's begin with 'Dear Santa.' What do you want to say next?" She thought for a moment and said, "Rabbit Santa."
I am so glad that Jenny is our first child. If we had had one of the boys first, we might have been tempted to stop there (Just kidding, guys). My only regret is that I was so new at the parenting thing, I made a lot of mistakes with her. If I could do it over again, she would never doubt that she is the pride of her father's heart.
I am so very pleased with the woman my daughter has become. She is an outstanding mother, wonderful volunteer, and a woman of strong faith and conviction. She made an excellent choice in a mate. David is a father-in-law's dream. And I am so very grateful for the way in which she shares precious Malaya with Grammy and Grampy.
Happy 28th birthday, my sweet girl. Hard to believe. That makes me nearly 40! You have made your daddy a proud man. See you tonight at Joe T. Garcia's.
It was still in the days where the father was not allowed back with the mother during delivery. So, when I finally got to hold that beautiful bundle, it was just unbelievable. She brought so much joy into our lives.
She was born with a voice like an angel. Her cry was soft -- almost considerate. But from the time she began to talk, she could sing on pitch. To this day, her voice gives me goosebumps.
So many wonderful memories. I loved rocking her to bed every night, and reading her bedtime stories. Butterfly kisses. Working puzzles. Icees. Going for walks. PIcking the "Ok-ok" (that's okra for you grown-ups) out of my garden.
Whenever we traveled, she would shout, "I see choo-choo train." And she would continue saying it until we said, "Yes, Jenny. It's a choo-choo train."
When she was in kindergarden, she came home from school with an assignment: Write a letter to Santa Claus. So, she and I sat down to write. I asked, "What would you like to say?" No response. I said, "How about let's begin with 'Dear Santa.' What do you want to say next?" She thought for a moment and said, "Rabbit Santa."
I am so glad that Jenny is our first child. If we had had one of the boys first, we might have been tempted to stop there (Just kidding, guys). My only regret is that I was so new at the parenting thing, I made a lot of mistakes with her. If I could do it over again, she would never doubt that she is the pride of her father's heart.
I am so very pleased with the woman my daughter has become. She is an outstanding mother, wonderful volunteer, and a woman of strong faith and conviction. She made an excellent choice in a mate. David is a father-in-law's dream. And I am so very grateful for the way in which she shares precious Malaya with Grammy and Grampy.
Happy 28th birthday, my sweet girl. Hard to believe. That makes me nearly 40! You have made your daddy a proud man. See you tonight at Joe T. Garcia's.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Trip to Lovington, New Mexico
Friday Beverly and I will be heading to Lovington, New Mexico for a weekend with the church there. She will lead a ladies' day on Saturday. On Friday night, two sessions Saturday night and four sessions Sunday, I will be teaching from the Sermon on the Mount.
This is the third straight year we have made this trip. It is so special. The church is warm and friendly. And we get to spend time with our dear friends, Larry and Aleta Tittle. Larry serves as a minister there.
We will be returning on Monday, arriving in the evening. So I will be missing from the blogger world for a few days.
I'm writing this today to ask you to be praying for us this weekend, that the Lord will use us to bring words of blessing. Also, I'm writing it today because tomorrow will be dedicated to a very special person in my life.
This is the third straight year we have made this trip. It is so special. The church is warm and friendly. And we get to spend time with our dear friends, Larry and Aleta Tittle. Larry serves as a minister there.
We will be returning on Monday, arriving in the evening. So I will be missing from the blogger world for a few days.
I'm writing this today to ask you to be praying for us this weekend, that the Lord will use us to bring words of blessing. Also, I'm writing it today because tomorrow will be dedicated to a very special person in my life.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Softball and Mel Gibson
Well, the softball season is about over. We began our post-season tournament last night. We played Grace Baptist. I think they need to reconsider their name. Last week, they beat us 35-0. Last night we had similar results: 36-6.
Obviously, we are not very good. We won less than half our games during the season. But "Grace" Baptist? They surely didn't show us any. I'm really just kidding. After the game, one of the guys apologized for running up the score. He said that the tournament winner could come down to runs scored. I told him not to worry about it. I said that they way we played, they would have had to sit down on the bases to keep from running up the score.
We play again tonight. Chances are this will be our last game.
_____________________________________
I really like Mel Gibson. I have heard some discussion about his being stopped for drunk driving last week. But I don't know for sure what the hoopla is about what he said in his drunkenness. I need to find an article where that is detailed. It is certainly serving as fodder for the talk shows. Even on GMA this morning they were talking about alcohol's affect on our inhibitions.
Obviously, we are not very good. We won less than half our games during the season. But "Grace" Baptist? They surely didn't show us any. I'm really just kidding. After the game, one of the guys apologized for running up the score. He said that the tournament winner could come down to runs scored. I told him not to worry about it. I said that they way we played, they would have had to sit down on the bases to keep from running up the score.
We play again tonight. Chances are this will be our last game.
_____________________________________
I really like Mel Gibson. I have heard some discussion about his being stopped for drunk driving last week. But I don't know for sure what the hoopla is about what he said in his drunkenness. I need to find an article where that is detailed. It is certainly serving as fodder for the talk shows. Even on GMA this morning they were talking about alcohol's affect on our inhibitions.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Gems from Bible Study
Last night I led a Bible study from James 5, where he 1. gets pretty direct with those who are rich (us) and 2. encourages his readers to live in the awareness that Jesus is coming. So this morning let me share a couple of quotes.
In relation to wealth, Andrew Carnegie, one of the great industrialists of the 19th century, once said: "I was born in poverty and would not exchange its sacred memories with the richest millionaire's son who ever breathed . . . Some men think that poverty is a dreadful burden and that wealth leads to happiness. What do they know about it? They know only one side. They imagine the other. I have lived both, and I know there is very little in wealth that can add to human happiness beyond the small comforts of life. Millionaires who laugh are rare."
And on the subject of Jesus' return, C. S. Lewis wrote: "If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this."
Have a great weekend!
In relation to wealth, Andrew Carnegie, one of the great industrialists of the 19th century, once said: "I was born in poverty and would not exchange its sacred memories with the richest millionaire's son who ever breathed . . . Some men think that poverty is a dreadful burden and that wealth leads to happiness. What do they know about it? They know only one side. They imagine the other. I have lived both, and I know there is very little in wealth that can add to human happiness beyond the small comforts of life. Millionaires who laugh are rare."
And on the subject of Jesus' return, C. S. Lewis wrote: "If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this."
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Justice? Or Mercy?
Justice and mercy. We humans rarely balance the two out well. I confess it is a concept I often find myself struggling with -- from world events to the local church to close relationships.
So this Andrea Yates case brings the whole issue up again. This woman murdered five of her own children! Yet in her retrial, she has been found not guilty by reason of insanity. I agree! A person would have to be insane to kill her 5 children. But where is the accountability? Where is the justice for those 5 innocent lives that were snuffed out by a person whom they should have been able to trust? I don't know what the answer is. If she is indeed insane, I hope for her sake and others' that she remains in the state mental hospital for a long time.
In Romans 3, Paul talks about how God presented Jesus as a sacrifice of atonement. He then says in vv. 25-26: He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished -- he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justified those who have faith in Jesus.
Through this, we see that God is both Just and the Justifier. So, I rest in that thought. I know that I want mercy. Therefore, I believe it best for me to err on the side of mercy in my dealings with others.
On a lighter note (pardon the blond joke, but sometimes truth is greater than fiction): Runway model Tatyana Simanava, 21, was hospitalized in May after she turned the wrong way upon emerging from the rest room of the luxury motor home she was riding in through Brooklyn, N.Y., and fell out the back door into traffic, suffering a broken arm and wrist. Newspaper stories described her as a blonde.
So this Andrea Yates case brings the whole issue up again. This woman murdered five of her own children! Yet in her retrial, she has been found not guilty by reason of insanity. I agree! A person would have to be insane to kill her 5 children. But where is the accountability? Where is the justice for those 5 innocent lives that were snuffed out by a person whom they should have been able to trust? I don't know what the answer is. If she is indeed insane, I hope for her sake and others' that she remains in the state mental hospital for a long time.
In Romans 3, Paul talks about how God presented Jesus as a sacrifice of atonement. He then says in vv. 25-26: He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished -- he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justified those who have faith in Jesus.
Through this, we see that God is both Just and the Justifier. So, I rest in that thought. I know that I want mercy. Therefore, I believe it best for me to err on the side of mercy in my dealings with others.
On a lighter note (pardon the blond joke, but sometimes truth is greater than fiction): Runway model Tatyana Simanava, 21, was hospitalized in May after she turned the wrong way upon emerging from the rest room of the luxury motor home she was riding in through Brooklyn, N.Y., and fell out the back door into traffic, suffering a broken arm and wrist. Newspaper stories described her as a blonde.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Prayer Request
Each Wednesday morning I meet with a few guys to share and pray. This morning, we were talking for a while about Lasik surgery, and it occurred to me that it has been nearly 6 years to the day since I had Lasik. For me, it has been an incredible experience -- as it corrected not only my near-sightedness, but also my astigmatism.
However, I find my prayers and thoughts constantly going right now to a good brother who had an eye procedure done a couple of weeks ago, and is really struggling with the results at this time. His name is Kyle Reeves. He is a dentist (a very good one, I might add). And so his recovery is doubly difficult because he is unable to work right now. Kyle and his wife, Shelly, are an incredible couple. They are extremely mission-minded, servant-minded and generous. They are truly in love with Jesus.
So, please lift Kyle up in your prayers today. He usually reads my blog (I'm not sure if he is now, because of his eyes). I would like to encourage you to reply to this blog with a note of encouragement for him and Shelly today. Thanks.
However, I find my prayers and thoughts constantly going right now to a good brother who had an eye procedure done a couple of weeks ago, and is really struggling with the results at this time. His name is Kyle Reeves. He is a dentist (a very good one, I might add). And so his recovery is doubly difficult because he is unable to work right now. Kyle and his wife, Shelly, are an incredible couple. They are extremely mission-minded, servant-minded and generous. They are truly in love with Jesus.
So, please lift Kyle up in your prayers today. He usually reads my blog (I'm not sure if he is now, because of his eyes). I would like to encourage you to reply to this blog with a note of encouragement for him and Shelly today. Thanks.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Congrats to Tiger
Over the weekend, I enjoyed watching the British Open. If Tiger stays with his new strategy of hitting irons off the tee and staying in the fairway, he might be unstoppable. And what an incredible show of pent-up emotions after he finished!
I promise not to make this blog simply an A. W. Tozer quote of the day. But right now, his words are hitting us (me) right between the eyes. Listen to this:
But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. --Galatians 6:14
The old cross slew men; the new cross entertains them. The old cross condemned; the new cross amuses. The old cross destroyed confidence in the flesh; the new cross encourages it. The old cross brought tears and blood; the new cross brings laughter. The flesh, smiling and confident, preaches and sings about the cross; before that cross it bows and toward that cross it points with carefully staged histrionics--but upon that cross it will not die, and the reproach of that cross it stubbornly refuses to bear.
I well know how many smooth arguments can be marshalled in support of the new cross. Does not the new cross win converts and make many followers and so carry the advantage of numerical success? Should we not adjust ourselves to the changing times? Have we not heard the slogan, "New days, new ways"? And who but someone very old and very conservative would insist upon death as the appointed way to life? And who today is interested in a gloomy mysticism that would sentence
its flesh to a cross and recommend self-effacing humility as a virtue actually to be practiced by modern Christians? These are the arguments, along with many more flippant still, which are brought forward to give an appearance of wisdom to the hollow and meaningless cross of popular Christianity. The Pursuit of Man, 53,54.
I promise not to make this blog simply an A. W. Tozer quote of the day. But right now, his words are hitting us (me) right between the eyes. Listen to this:
But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. --Galatians 6:14
The old cross slew men; the new cross entertains them. The old cross condemned; the new cross amuses. The old cross destroyed confidence in the flesh; the new cross encourages it. The old cross brought tears and blood; the new cross brings laughter. The flesh, smiling and confident, preaches and sings about the cross; before that cross it bows and toward that cross it points with carefully staged histrionics--but upon that cross it will not die, and the reproach of that cross it stubbornly refuses to bear.
I well know how many smooth arguments can be marshalled in support of the new cross. Does not the new cross win converts and make many followers and so carry the advantage of numerical success? Should we not adjust ourselves to the changing times? Have we not heard the slogan, "New days, new ways"? And who but someone very old and very conservative would insist upon death as the appointed way to life? And who today is interested in a gloomy mysticism that would sentence
its flesh to a cross and recommend self-effacing humility as a virtue actually to be practiced by modern Christians? These are the arguments, along with many more flippant still, which are brought forward to give an appearance of wisdom to the hollow and meaningless cross of popular Christianity. The Pursuit of Man, 53,54.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Another Tozer Quote
This is an exciting weekend. British Open in the morning. Tomorrow night, Beverly and I are going with Jenny and Malaya and some of our friends to see my favorite artist, Stephen Curtis Chapman. I'll be up late Saturday night. So, hopefully I won't fall asleep in the sermon.
In past weeks, I have shared thoughts from A. W. Tozer. Here is another:
We do have many professing Christians in our day who are not joyful, but they spend time trying to work it up. Now, brethren, I say that when we give God His place in the church, when we recognize Christ as Lord high and lifted up, when we give the Holy Spirit His place, there will be joy that doesn't have to be worked up. It will be a joy that springs like a fountain. Jesus said that it should be a fountain, an artesian well, that springs up from within. That's one characteristic of a Spirit-filled congregation. They will be a joyful people, and it will be easy to distinguish them from the children of the world.
I wonder what the Apostle Paul would say if he came down right now and looked us over in our congregations. What if he walked up and down the aisles of our churches, then went to a theater and looked them over, then on to a hockey game, on to the crowds at the shopping center and into the crowded streets? Then when he came back and looked us over again, I wonder if he would see very much difference?
Have a great weekend!
In past weeks, I have shared thoughts from A. W. Tozer. Here is another:
We do have many professing Christians in our day who are not joyful, but they spend time trying to work it up. Now, brethren, I say that when we give God His place in the church, when we recognize Christ as Lord high and lifted up, when we give the Holy Spirit His place, there will be joy that doesn't have to be worked up. It will be a joy that springs like a fountain. Jesus said that it should be a fountain, an artesian well, that springs up from within. That's one characteristic of a Spirit-filled congregation. They will be a joyful people, and it will be easy to distinguish them from the children of the world.
I wonder what the Apostle Paul would say if he came down right now and looked us over in our congregations. What if he walked up and down the aisles of our churches, then went to a theater and looked them over, then on to a hockey game, on to the crowds at the shopping center and into the crowded streets? Then when he came back and looked us over again, I wonder if he would see very much difference?
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Life in the Fast Lane
It was so nice being back in Crockett. Seeing old friends and preaching last night for them was a special treat. Beverly and her parents and I met Jed for lunch yesterday. His parents tagged along as well. We ate and then visited for about an hour and a half -- just taking turns holding the little booger. He is so cute!
Last night after church, we got on the road -- arriving home about 12:30. Beverly called her mom on the way home, and it was raining in Crockett. So, I just missed seeing my first rain in a couple of months.
Are we spoiled or what? As I got to the office this morning, I went on line. We have DSL, and it is running slower than the old dial up. I'm sitting in front of my monitor tapping my foot. "Come on! You're wasting my precious time!"
I can remember when dial up internet was incredible. And that was only a few years ago!
I have to keep telling myself to slow down and enjoy the ride.
Last night after church, we got on the road -- arriving home about 12:30. Beverly called her mom on the way home, and it was raining in Crockett. So, I just missed seeing my first rain in a couple of months.
Are we spoiled or what? As I got to the office this morning, I went on line. We have DSL, and it is running slower than the old dial up. I'm sitting in front of my monitor tapping my foot. "Come on! You're wasting my precious time!"
I can remember when dial up internet was incredible. And that was only a few years ago!
I have to keep telling myself to slow down and enjoy the ride.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Returning to Crockett
Today after work, I am picking up Beverly in Grapevine and we are going to go spend the night in Crockett with Beverly's parents. Tomorrow night I will be speaking there.
Crockett was my first full-time work. Even though we were only there 5 years, in many ways it still seems like home. We made life-long friends there. It was the perfect place for an inexperienced preacher to cut his teeth. They were so supportive, and must have endured some real yawners.
I think we sense many of the positives in Decatur that we did in Crockett. We like the smaller town, and the genuineness of the people.
Hopefully, our ministry career can be bookended with the Crockett experience and the Decatur experience. That would be cool. I only hope that there aren't as many yawners left in my repertoire.
Crockett was my first full-time work. Even though we were only there 5 years, in many ways it still seems like home. We made life-long friends there. It was the perfect place for an inexperienced preacher to cut his teeth. They were so supportive, and must have endured some real yawners.
I think we sense many of the positives in Decatur that we did in Crockett. We like the smaller town, and the genuineness of the people.
Hopefully, our ministry career can be bookended with the Crockett experience and the Decatur experience. That would be cool. I only hope that there aren't as many yawners left in my repertoire.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Pray for Relief!
Wow! It's hot! Today it is supposed to be 104. No rain in sight. I'm about to go mow while it's still cool (meaning under 95).
How about let's join in praying for rain. Those of you who read my blog in the Houston area or other areas that have gotten an abundance of rain, you can still join us in praying -- just be sure to state your specified target. We are desperately in need of rain here in Decatur (and the whole DFW Metroplex).
Tonight at 8 (the temperature ought to be down to about 100 by then), we have a softball game. Our team (the Decatur Church of Christ JV) is playing the Deatur Church of Christ Varsity. It could turn real ugly.
Lord, please bring us an abundance of rain. Eight o'clock tonight would be nice.
How about let's join in praying for rain. Those of you who read my blog in the Houston area or other areas that have gotten an abundance of rain, you can still join us in praying -- just be sure to state your specified target. We are desperately in need of rain here in Decatur (and the whole DFW Metroplex).
Tonight at 8 (the temperature ought to be down to about 100 by then), we have a softball game. Our team (the Decatur Church of Christ JV) is playing the Deatur Church of Christ Varsity. It could turn real ugly.
Lord, please bring us an abundance of rain. Eight o'clock tonight would be nice.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Friday Morning Scattershooting
OK, enough of the Michelle Wie hype! I realize that she is an incredlble 16 year old golfer. But she has yet to even win an LPGA event. Yet, for several months, the John Deere Classic has been hyping her attempt to make the cut in this week's PGA event. It is one of the weakest fields of the year on the PGA tour -- being the week before the British Open. Result yesterday: Only two men in the field scored higher than Wie. She has had similar results in past PGA events. So, stop with trying to make this a story! PLEASE!
______________________________
I didn't know until this morning that the Dallas Mavericks 1st round draft choice, Maurice Ager from Michigan State (drafted 28th over all) is a faithful Christian and member of the Church of Christ.
______________________________
Wow! I can't recall if the world has ever been in such a volatile state in my life! Iraq. Afghanistan. Iran. North Korea. Israel / Lebanon. In the words of Rodney King, "Can't we all just get along?" Big oil is licking it's greedy lips -- with crude topping $78 a barrel. The worse the conditions in the world, the better their bottom line. What a sick way to make a profit.
Of course, Pat Robertson and his ilk are also enjoying this, as they try to predict how all of this is the playing out of Biblical prophecy. I imagine donations go up as people attempt to "get right with God" before Armegeddon.
Sorry. I'm probably sounding a little cynical this morning.
______________________________
I didn't know until this morning that the Dallas Mavericks 1st round draft choice, Maurice Ager from Michigan State (drafted 28th over all) is a faithful Christian and member of the Church of Christ.
______________________________
Wow! I can't recall if the world has ever been in such a volatile state in my life! Iraq. Afghanistan. Iran. North Korea. Israel / Lebanon. In the words of Rodney King, "Can't we all just get along?" Big oil is licking it's greedy lips -- with crude topping $78 a barrel. The worse the conditions in the world, the better their bottom line. What a sick way to make a profit.
Of course, Pat Robertson and his ilk are also enjoying this, as they try to predict how all of this is the playing out of Biblical prophecy. I imagine donations go up as people attempt to "get right with God" before Armegeddon.
Sorry. I'm probably sounding a little cynical this morning.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Eyes for the Poor
I stayed up way past my bedtime last night. My son Josh and his wife Kayci were in town. Josh spoke at our church last night, and did an incredible job.
Josh has such a passion for the poor. So, we stayed up late -- sitting on the patio talking about the plight of the poor, and the failure of the government, the church, etc. to adequately address this issue. We've all heard people say, "God helps those who help themselves." That's not in Scripture. In fact, when it comes to spiritual matters -- that statement is even unbiblical. But Paul does say, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat" (2 Thess. 5: 8). And he said that anyone who does not provide for for his family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever (1 Tim. 5: 8).
So, yes, those verses address those who refuse to work. But people are poor for any number of reasons. And there is no way to morally place them all in the same box. I was especially convicted last night as Josh said that, for the most part -- we never even see the poor. They live "over there." Rarely do we even encounter them.
I want to challenge us today to have the eyes of Jesus. And let His words from Matthew 25 penetrate our hearts and work on our consciences today:
"Then the righteous will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, our thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'"
Josh has such a passion for the poor. So, we stayed up late -- sitting on the patio talking about the plight of the poor, and the failure of the government, the church, etc. to adequately address this issue. We've all heard people say, "God helps those who help themselves." That's not in Scripture. In fact, when it comes to spiritual matters -- that statement is even unbiblical. But Paul does say, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat" (2 Thess. 5: 8). And he said that anyone who does not provide for for his family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever (1 Tim. 5: 8).
So, yes, those verses address those who refuse to work. But people are poor for any number of reasons. And there is no way to morally place them all in the same box. I was especially convicted last night as Josh said that, for the most part -- we never even see the poor. They live "over there." Rarely do we even encounter them.
I want to challenge us today to have the eyes of Jesus. And let His words from Matthew 25 penetrate our hearts and work on our consciences today:
"Then the righteous will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, our thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'"
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
More from Tozer
Here's another thought from A. W. Tozer:
Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.
--1 Timothy 6:17
We in the churches seem unable to rise above the fiscal philosophy which rules the business world; so we introduce into our church finances the psychology of the great secular institutions so familiar to us all and judge a church by its financial report much as we judge a bank or a department store.
A look into history will quickly convince any interested person that the true church has almost always suffered more from prosperity than from poverty. Her times of greatest spiritual power have usually coincided with her periods of indigence and rejection; with wealth came weakness and backsliding. If this cannot be explained, neither apparently can it be escaped. . . .
The point I am trying to make here is that while money has a proper place in the total life of the church militant, the tendency is to attach to it an importance that is far greater than is biblically sound or morally right. The average church has so established itself organizationally and financially that God is simply not necessary to it. So entrenched is its authority and so stable are the religious habits of its members that God could withdraw Himself completely from it and it could run on for years on its own momentum. The Warfare of the Spirit, 9-11.
That last part reminds me of a quote I once heard (it may have been Tozer). It went something to the effect of "Remove the Holy Spirit from the early church and everything would have stopped. Remove the Holy Spirit from the church today, and we would go on with business as usual."
Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.
--1 Timothy 6:17
We in the churches seem unable to rise above the fiscal philosophy which rules the business world; so we introduce into our church finances the psychology of the great secular institutions so familiar to us all and judge a church by its financial report much as we judge a bank or a department store.
A look into history will quickly convince any interested person that the true church has almost always suffered more from prosperity than from poverty. Her times of greatest spiritual power have usually coincided with her periods of indigence and rejection; with wealth came weakness and backsliding. If this cannot be explained, neither apparently can it be escaped. . . .
The point I am trying to make here is that while money has a proper place in the total life of the church militant, the tendency is to attach to it an importance that is far greater than is biblically sound or morally right. The average church has so established itself organizationally and financially that God is simply not necessary to it. So entrenched is its authority and so stable are the religious habits of its members that God could withdraw Himself completely from it and it could run on for years on its own momentum. The Warfare of the Spirit, 9-11.
That last part reminds me of a quote I once heard (it may have been Tozer). It went something to the effect of "Remove the Holy Spirit from the early church and everything would have stopped. Remove the Holy Spirit from the church today, and we would go on with business as usual."
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Comic Criminals
I love reading about silly things criminals do. Here are a couple I came across this morning:
1. Richard and Stephanie North were arrested in April and charged with taking a big-screen TV from an appliance store in Middletown, N.Y. Police had stopped their car on suspicion because a rear door was propped open to accommodate the huge TV set sticking out of the back seat.
2. Richard Costello, 29, was arrested in Clearwater, Fla., in May and charged with stealing motorcycle parts after police recovered photos of the parts, which they suspect were snapped by Costello. At the bottom of each photo, the photographer's bare toes are visible and display the tattoos "white" and "trash," matching Costello's own tattooed toes.
I guess I like reading / hearing about such things because it makes me feel smarter. But this morning, I was reminded that God and the hosts of heaven probably grin when they watch me bumble through life, too.
1. Richard and Stephanie North were arrested in April and charged with taking a big-screen TV from an appliance store in Middletown, N.Y. Police had stopped their car on suspicion because a rear door was propped open to accommodate the huge TV set sticking out of the back seat.
2. Richard Costello, 29, was arrested in Clearwater, Fla., in May and charged with stealing motorcycle parts after police recovered photos of the parts, which they suspect were snapped by Costello. At the bottom of each photo, the photographer's bare toes are visible and display the tattoos "white" and "trash," matching Costello's own tattooed toes.
I guess I like reading / hearing about such things because it makes me feel smarter. But this morning, I was reminded that God and the hosts of heaven probably grin when they watch me bumble through life, too.
Monday, July 10, 2006
The World Cup
Yesterday, I watched bits and pieces of the World Cup. I am amazed at the popularity of soccer (futbol) worldwide. No doubt, it is the world's most popular sport. But it would take some getting used to before I could be a fan.
Now rugby is another matter. Two years ago, when I was in Australia -- they were in the middle of the rugby playoffs. It is a great game, somewhat like football without the 40 second break in between plays. Much faster moving than our football.
Anyway, so I'm watching the game yesterday: Italy vs. France. I'm surprised France didn't just surrender (just joking). After regulation, the score was tied. So, they played one overtime period -- and it was still tied. So the World Cup comes down to this: Who can make the most penalty kicks in 5 tries? Huh?
These guys have been playing in the World Cup tournament for what seems like a couple of months -- with up to a billion people watching. And the champions are going to be determined by who can make the most penalty kicks in 5 tries?
Can you imagine the Super Bowl coming down to this: Game tied after regulation. They play one overtime period -- still tied. So, the game will be decided by which field goal kicker can make the most extra points in 5 tries.
Or the NBA championship being decided by who can make the most free throws in 5 tries.
Needless to say, I was not impressed. But I realize that my American point of view is not one that is shared by the rest of the world. So, congratulations to Italy!
Now rugby is another matter. Two years ago, when I was in Australia -- they were in the middle of the rugby playoffs. It is a great game, somewhat like football without the 40 second break in between plays. Much faster moving than our football.
Anyway, so I'm watching the game yesterday: Italy vs. France. I'm surprised France didn't just surrender (just joking). After regulation, the score was tied. So, they played one overtime period -- and it was still tied. So the World Cup comes down to this: Who can make the most penalty kicks in 5 tries? Huh?
These guys have been playing in the World Cup tournament for what seems like a couple of months -- with up to a billion people watching. And the champions are going to be determined by who can make the most penalty kicks in 5 tries?
Can you imagine the Super Bowl coming down to this: Game tied after regulation. They play one overtime period -- still tied. So, the game will be decided by which field goal kicker can make the most extra points in 5 tries.
Or the NBA championship being decided by who can make the most free throws in 5 tries.
Needless to say, I was not impressed. But I realize that my American point of view is not one that is shared by the rest of the world. So, congratulations to Italy!
Friday, July 07, 2006
What if . . .?
An interesting question was posed last night at our covenant group / Bible study. Suppose you lived in the time when Jesus was in the flesh. How do you think you would have received Him?
I had to admit that I am glad I live now -- post-resurrection. As cynical as I tend to be when people make claims for themselves or about others, I fear that I would have missed Him. I don't think I would have sided with the Pharisees. I probably would have simply been one in the crowd who saw (or heard), weighed it against my own experiences -- and returned home to my routine.
It's a scary thought.
I had to admit that I am glad I live now -- post-resurrection. As cynical as I tend to be when people make claims for themselves or about others, I fear that I would have missed Him. I don't think I would have sided with the Pharisees. I probably would have simply been one in the crowd who saw (or heard), weighed it against my own experiences -- and returned home to my routine.
It's a scary thought.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Missed Rain, Jedidiah, and Ken Lay
I did not realize when Beverly and I moved to Decatur that we were moving to the largest dome in the world. Since Monday, it has rained all around us. Over the last several days, the DFW metroplex has received multiple inches of rain. Within 4 miles of my house, a friend got two inches on Tuesday. But we are dry.
Beverly and I had a nice treat yesterday. Jedidiah came to see us! (Oh, yeah. Their parents, Jonathan and Jennifer, came too). They spent the night with us last night, and are on their way to Odessa today -- then to Abilene for the weekend and next week. Jonathan is leading singing for Kadesh camp there.
I told Beverly that I would not rub it in, but it is quite a coincidence. Our 1st grandbaby, Malaya, smiled first at her grampy. And last night? Jed smiled at me (1st again). But I won't rub it in.
Ken Lay passed away yesterday. I could not believe the newspaper headlines this morning. It was about how Lay got out of paying restitution for his crime! For goodness sakes! The man is dead! I realize his crime was a grievous one -- leaving many people hurt. But where has our common decency gone?
Beverly and I had a nice treat yesterday. Jedidiah came to see us! (Oh, yeah. Their parents, Jonathan and Jennifer, came too). They spent the night with us last night, and are on their way to Odessa today -- then to Abilene for the weekend and next week. Jonathan is leading singing for Kadesh camp there.
I told Beverly that I would not rub it in, but it is quite a coincidence. Our 1st grandbaby, Malaya, smiled first at her grampy. And last night? Jed smiled at me (1st again). But I won't rub it in.
Ken Lay passed away yesterday. I could not believe the newspaper headlines this morning. It was about how Lay got out of paying restitution for his crime! For goodness sakes! The man is dead! I realize his crime was a grievous one -- leaving many people hurt. But where has our common decency gone?
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Founding Fathers
I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July. I did. Beverly and I (mainly Beverly) got some projects accomplished at the house. More pictures hung. But the best thing: MY CAR IS NOW IN THE GARAGE! This is one of the best signs that we are officially moved in to a house. There isn't a day goes by that Beverly and I don't thank the Lord that we are in Decatur.
Every 4th of July I am again reminded of what an incredible group of men the Lord brought together 230 years ago to birth this nation. I wonder what our founding fathers would think about us today. Would they be proud of their "kids"? Or would they be ashamed?
I sometimes think those same thoughts about Jesus, Peter, Paul, etc. Would they be proud of where the church is today? What would they commend? What would make them sad?
I think I know at least some of the answers to both.
Every 4th of July I am again reminded of what an incredible group of men the Lord brought together 230 years ago to birth this nation. I wonder what our founding fathers would think about us today. Would they be proud of their "kids"? Or would they be ashamed?
I sometimes think those same thoughts about Jesus, Peter, Paul, etc. Would they be proud of where the church is today? What would they commend? What would make them sad?
I think I know at least some of the answers to both.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Kierkegaard Quote
Praise God! Our group made it home safely this morning.
My son Josh sent me a Soren Kierkegaard quote yesterday that I have not been able to get off my mind. My prayer is that you won't either. Here it is:
The matter is quite simple. The Bible is very easy to understand. But we Christians are a bunch of scheming swindlers. We pretend to be unable to understand it because we know very well that the minute we understand, we are obliged to act accordingly. Take any words in the NT and forget everything except pledging yourself to act accordingly. You will say, if I do that my whole life will be ruined. How would I ever get on in the world? Herein lies the real place of Christian scholarship. Christian scholarship is the Church's prodigious invention to defend itself against the Bible, to ensure that we can continue to be good Christians without the Bible coming too close. Oh, priceless scholarship, what would we do without you? Dreadful it is to fall into the hands of the living God. Yes, it is even dreadful to be alone with the NT.
Sounds pretty extreme, doesn't it? But it haunts me. It haunts me because I am a part of that scholarship. And it haunts me because I am thinking about how often I have heard someone say -- or have myself said -- "This is what Jesus really meant." "Paul said this; but he meant . . ." "Jesus said, 'You can't serve God and money.' What He meant was ..."
I agree with Kierkegaard. It is dreadful to be alone with the NT. In the same way that it is dreadful to undergo a major surgery that can improve the quality of one's life -- if not save it.
My son Josh sent me a Soren Kierkegaard quote yesterday that I have not been able to get off my mind. My prayer is that you won't either. Here it is:
The matter is quite simple. The Bible is very easy to understand. But we Christians are a bunch of scheming swindlers. We pretend to be unable to understand it because we know very well that the minute we understand, we are obliged to act accordingly. Take any words in the NT and forget everything except pledging yourself to act accordingly. You will say, if I do that my whole life will be ruined. How would I ever get on in the world? Herein lies the real place of Christian scholarship. Christian scholarship is the Church's prodigious invention to defend itself against the Bible, to ensure that we can continue to be good Christians without the Bible coming too close. Oh, priceless scholarship, what would we do without you? Dreadful it is to fall into the hands of the living God. Yes, it is even dreadful to be alone with the NT.
Sounds pretty extreme, doesn't it? But it haunts me. It haunts me because I am a part of that scholarship. And it haunts me because I am thinking about how often I have heard someone say -- or have myself said -- "This is what Jesus really meant." "Paul said this; but he meant . . ." "Jesus said, 'You can't serve God and money.' What He meant was ..."
I agree with Kierkegaard. It is dreadful to be alone with the NT. In the same way that it is dreadful to undergo a major surgery that can improve the quality of one's life -- if not save it.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Pray for Our Brazil Team
We received word this morning that our mission team to Brazil has hit another snag. They were in the air last night about an hour out, and a problem developed with the plane. So they returned to Brazil, and will not leave until 9:30 tonight -- hopefully arriving here at about 6:30 Friday morning.
I really feel for our group. After a few days away from my sweetie, I can't wait to be reunited. And then, to have two delays -- it must be very discouraging. Let's pray that they will have peace in their hearts from the comfort of the Father.
Russ Hamilton called me this morning and has requested that anyone who can -- come to the building tonight at 7 PM for a prayer vigil. They want to pray for the team -- that they will be able to leave tonight and arrive home safely. I have a Bible study in Southlake tonight, so will miss out. But thanks, Russ, for coordinating that!
I really feel for our group. After a few days away from my sweetie, I can't wait to be reunited. And then, to have two delays -- it must be very discouraging. Let's pray that they will have peace in their hearts from the comfort of the Father.
Russ Hamilton called me this morning and has requested that anyone who can -- come to the building tonight at 7 PM for a prayer vigil. They want to pray for the team -- that they will be able to leave tonight and arrive home safely. I have a Bible study in Southlake tonight, so will miss out. But thanks, Russ, for coordinating that!
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Are We Really That Busy?
Today I came across some thoughts from A. W. Tozer. I love his stuff! He really makes me think fresh.
Worship: Omit the Third Verse
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul! While I live I will
praise the Lord; I will sing praises to my God while I have my
being.
--Psalm 146:1-2
I suppose it is not of vast importance that the third stanza is
so often omitted in the singing of a hymn, but just for the
record let it be said that the worshipers are deprived of the
blessing of the hymn by that omission if, as is often true, the
hymn develops a great Christian truth in sermonic outline. To
omit a stanza is to lose one link in a golden chain and greatly
to reduce the value of the whole hymn.
The significant thing, however, is not what the omission
actually does, but what it suggests, viz., a nervous impatience
and a desire to get the service over with. We are, for instance,
singing "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross." We long to forget
the big noisy world and let our hearts go out in reverent
worship of that Prince of Glory who died for us, but our sad
sweet longing is killed in the bud by the brisk, unemotional
voice of the director ordering us to "omit the third verse." We
wonder vaguely whether the brother is hungry or has to catch an
early train or just why he is so anxious to get through with the
hymn. Since all standard hymns have been edited to delete
inferior stanzas and since any stanza of the average hymn can be
sung in less than one minute...and since many of our best hymns
have already been shortened as much as good taste will allow, we
are forced to conclude that the habit of omitting the third
stanza reveals religious boredom, pure and simple, and it would
do our souls good if we would admit it. The Price of Neglect,
123-124.
God, forgive us for our desire to "get the service over with." What are we thinking?!
Worship: Omit the Third Verse
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul! While I live I will
praise the Lord; I will sing praises to my God while I have my
being.
--Psalm 146:1-2
I suppose it is not of vast importance that the third stanza is
so often omitted in the singing of a hymn, but just for the
record let it be said that the worshipers are deprived of the
blessing of the hymn by that omission if, as is often true, the
hymn develops a great Christian truth in sermonic outline. To
omit a stanza is to lose one link in a golden chain and greatly
to reduce the value of the whole hymn.
The significant thing, however, is not what the omission
actually does, but what it suggests, viz., a nervous impatience
and a desire to get the service over with. We are, for instance,
singing "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross." We long to forget
the big noisy world and let our hearts go out in reverent
worship of that Prince of Glory who died for us, but our sad
sweet longing is killed in the bud by the brisk, unemotional
voice of the director ordering us to "omit the third verse." We
wonder vaguely whether the brother is hungry or has to catch an
early train or just why he is so anxious to get through with the
hymn. Since all standard hymns have been edited to delete
inferior stanzas and since any stanza of the average hymn can be
sung in less than one minute...and since many of our best hymns
have already been shortened as much as good taste will allow, we
are forced to conclude that the habit of omitting the third
stanza reveals religious boredom, pure and simple, and it would
do our souls good if we would admit it. The Price of Neglect,
123-124.
God, forgive us for our desire to "get the service over with." What are we thinking?!
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Blessings, Charlie
Tomorrow will be Charlie Gibson's last day on Good Morning America. I have enjoyed him so much through the years. He is a rare breed among public figures today. Never a scandal attached to his name. He has always been very open about his faith and his love for his family. He's just a real decent man. Witty. Funny. Mischievous. Compassionate.
Charlie is moving to the anchor desk for ABC news. I seldom watch the evening news, but I wish him well. I can't imagine who ABC can get to fill his shoes on GMA.
By the way, this is not intended to be a GMA vs. Today Show blog. I must admit: I began watching GMA years ago, and never even checked in with Today. I just wanted to give some props to Charlie. He's the man!
Charlie is moving to the anchor desk for ABC news. I seldom watch the evening news, but I wish him well. I can't imagine who ABC can get to fill his shoes on GMA.
By the way, this is not intended to be a GMA vs. Today Show blog. I must admit: I began watching GMA years ago, and never even checked in with Today. I just wanted to give some props to Charlie. He's the man!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
My Youngest Turns 23!
After work today, Beverly and I are heading back to Houston to see our grandson (oh, yeah -- also his mom and dad). Can't wait!
Speaking of his dad, Sunday is his birthday. My youngest turns 23. And since I won't be blogging tomorrow, I want to send out his birthday blog.
Twenty-three years ago today, Beverly was in the hospital. She had gone into labor, but we were told by her on-call OB-Gyn that the baby was far too small for delivery. In fact, he had said that if the baby was born now, it would have to be immediately life-flighted to Houston. So, Beverly had been put in the hospital to stop her labor. She and I were scared -- thinking something might be wrong.
Well, on June 25th, the baby came. 7 lbs, 8 ozs. A beautiful baby boy. I was able to be more involved in his birth than with our 1st two, and the attending nurse placed him in my arms only seconds after he was delivered. It was really special.
When Jonathan turned 3, Beverly returned to school to finish her Elementary Education degree. I was working shiftwork at the time, so it was just Jonathan and me quite often. We had some good times together -- going to the beach, watching reruns of High Chaparral.
And now he's grown. Married to a wonderful woman. And -- a daddy! He will be a wonderful daddy. Jed has a head-start with the parents God has blessed him with.
I am so proud of the man Jonathan has become. He has a sense of humor that keeps me in stitches. And to watch him lead a congregation in worship to our Lord gives me goosebumps -- as well as a lump in my throat.
Our other two kids tell me that Jonathan can get away with more than they can. Maybe that comes with being the youngest. It is interesting: When they come to visit, he walks in the door -- and the TV remote becomes his property for the duration of their visit. Sports Center, Around the Horn and PTI. But to tell you the truth, I enjoy watching them with him.
So, happy birthday, son! Your daddy is so proud of you. What a blessing you continue to be in your mother's and my life.
Speaking of his dad, Sunday is his birthday. My youngest turns 23. And since I won't be blogging tomorrow, I want to send out his birthday blog.
Twenty-three years ago today, Beverly was in the hospital. She had gone into labor, but we were told by her on-call OB-Gyn that the baby was far too small for delivery. In fact, he had said that if the baby was born now, it would have to be immediately life-flighted to Houston. So, Beverly had been put in the hospital to stop her labor. She and I were scared -- thinking something might be wrong.
Well, on June 25th, the baby came. 7 lbs, 8 ozs. A beautiful baby boy. I was able to be more involved in his birth than with our 1st two, and the attending nurse placed him in my arms only seconds after he was delivered. It was really special.
When Jonathan turned 3, Beverly returned to school to finish her Elementary Education degree. I was working shiftwork at the time, so it was just Jonathan and me quite often. We had some good times together -- going to the beach, watching reruns of High Chaparral.
And now he's grown. Married to a wonderful woman. And -- a daddy! He will be a wonderful daddy. Jed has a head-start with the parents God has blessed him with.
I am so proud of the man Jonathan has become. He has a sense of humor that keeps me in stitches. And to watch him lead a congregation in worship to our Lord gives me goosebumps -- as well as a lump in my throat.
Our other two kids tell me that Jonathan can get away with more than they can. Maybe that comes with being the youngest. It is interesting: When they come to visit, he walks in the door -- and the TV remote becomes his property for the duration of their visit. Sports Center, Around the Horn and PTI. But to tell you the truth, I enjoy watching them with him.
So, happy birthday, son! Your daddy is so proud of you. What a blessing you continue to be in your mother's and my life.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Closure on the Mavs
I usually don't use two blogs a week to talk sports, but today I return to the Mavs. They had a great year! Hey, beating San Antonio in a game 7 in San Antonio made a great year!
I am a Mavs fan. Not fanatical. I used to be pretty fanatical about sports. But my interest doesn't run that deep any more. But I am a Mavs fan. I say that because I will probably catch some flack from the Mavs fanatics out there. I think this team was spent by the time they got to the finals. I wish they could have gone out with a fight rather than with a whimper.
And listen: No whining about the officiating. If we take care of business in game 3 -- the series is over. If our "superstars" sink a couple of freethrows in game 5 -- Mavs win.
Now, here is where someone may really get mad at me. I can see more clearly now why Dirk has not caught the attention of the national media. How I wish in these finals that we had a superstar who said, "Get on my back, boys. We're gonna win an NBA championship." Instead, that superstar was Dwayne Wade. He was incredible! Dirk? Hopefully he learned from this, and will be a different player next time he finds himself in a similar role. If he would have been as aggressive against the Heat as he was against an exercise bike on his way out of the arena, perhaps we might have faired better.
How about Avery Johnson? What a class act! I love this guy. He deserves more credit than perhaps anybody. Don't even begin to blame him or question him for this team's embarrassing collapse. They shot poorly from the field and the freethrow line. They were timid -- even with him yelling at them to take it to the hoop. I love Avery!
And Cuban? Give him props for having a championship mentality. He has brought a winning attitude to Dallas, and helped build a solid team that should have won. But someone has to convince the guy to shut up! His constant whining about the officiating has to hurt his team. It is human nature that those officials who are constantly being criticized by him are not going to be as favorable towards his team.
Well, that's my observations this morning. Congratulations to the Heat -- particularly Dwayne Wade. Without him, they probably don't even make it out of the 1st round. And congratulations, Mavs, on a good year. Maybe next year.
I am a Mavs fan. Not fanatical. I used to be pretty fanatical about sports. But my interest doesn't run that deep any more. But I am a Mavs fan. I say that because I will probably catch some flack from the Mavs fanatics out there. I think this team was spent by the time they got to the finals. I wish they could have gone out with a fight rather than with a whimper.
And listen: No whining about the officiating. If we take care of business in game 3 -- the series is over. If our "superstars" sink a couple of freethrows in game 5 -- Mavs win.
Now, here is where someone may really get mad at me. I can see more clearly now why Dirk has not caught the attention of the national media. How I wish in these finals that we had a superstar who said, "Get on my back, boys. We're gonna win an NBA championship." Instead, that superstar was Dwayne Wade. He was incredible! Dirk? Hopefully he learned from this, and will be a different player next time he finds himself in a similar role. If he would have been as aggressive against the Heat as he was against an exercise bike on his way out of the arena, perhaps we might have faired better.
How about Avery Johnson? What a class act! I love this guy. He deserves more credit than perhaps anybody. Don't even begin to blame him or question him for this team's embarrassing collapse. They shot poorly from the field and the freethrow line. They were timid -- even with him yelling at them to take it to the hoop. I love Avery!
And Cuban? Give him props for having a championship mentality. He has brought a winning attitude to Dallas, and helped build a solid team that should have won. But someone has to convince the guy to shut up! His constant whining about the officiating has to hurt his team. It is human nature that those officials who are constantly being criticized by him are not going to be as favorable towards his team.
Well, that's my observations this morning. Congratulations to the Heat -- particularly Dwayne Wade. Without him, they probably don't even make it out of the 1st round. And congratulations, Mavs, on a good year. Maybe next year.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
It Could Have Been Worse
Yesterday Beverly went to Sonic in Grapevine. That comes as no surprise to those of you who know her. I think she is on a 1st-name basis with every Sonic in Texas.
Well, anyway, when she went to leave -- her car wouldn't start. So, she called me and told me what had happened. She then called a friend who works close by and got a ride back to her office. I went soon after to check her car. Immediately I'm thinking new starter. I'll have to get the car towed. Mechanics. Labor. $$$$$$.
But then I thought, "Wait a minute! It could be as simple as a dead battery." So, that's what I decided to check 1st. I drove around the corner to NAPA and got a new battery -- and all is well.
I wonder how many of you tend to think like me: Worst-case scenarios. I am really working on that. And I'm finding that circumstances are seldom as bad as I can conjure them up to be. And I'm also learning to be more aware of the presence of God in it all. After all, He is El Roi -- "the God Who Sees." That's the name we will study this week.
Well, anyway, when she went to leave -- her car wouldn't start. So, she called me and told me what had happened. She then called a friend who works close by and got a ride back to her office. I went soon after to check her car. Immediately I'm thinking new starter. I'll have to get the car towed. Mechanics. Labor. $$$$$$.
But then I thought, "Wait a minute! It could be as simple as a dead battery." So, that's what I decided to check 1st. I drove around the corner to NAPA and got a new battery -- and all is well.
I wonder how many of you tend to think like me: Worst-case scenarios. I am really working on that. And I'm finding that circumstances are seldom as bad as I can conjure them up to be. And I'm also learning to be more aware of the presence of God in it all. After all, He is El Roi -- "the God Who Sees." That's the name we will study this week.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Notes from the Weekend
Yesterday was a wonderful Father's Day. I have to pinch myself to make sure that this is real. I am so, so blessed.
And I am so proud of our church! Last week as I witnessed so much work being put into reaching our community through Vacation Bible School. And this morning, I am seeing 30 of our members off to Brazil, where they will be involved in mission work there for 10 days. What an incredible undertaking for a church our size. It is exciting to be involved in God's kingdom activity.
On another note: It was a sorry weekend for sports! The US Open was the worst I have ever seen. I don't think anyone won the thing. Goeff Oglivy simply won it by default. Colen Montgomery has a chance to win his 1st major: Double bogey on 18. Phil Mickelson comes to 18 with a one shot lead: Double bogeys 18. It was pathetic.
And the Mavs! I'm hearing a lot of crying about the officiating, and it does seem to be slanted. BUT- the Mavs appear to be choking big-time. Dirk, where are you? You are supposed to be a superstar. A go-to guy. And you have disappeared from the radar!
Oh, well. Maybe their fortunes will change when they come home to Dallas.
And I am so proud of our church! Last week as I witnessed so much work being put into reaching our community through Vacation Bible School. And this morning, I am seeing 30 of our members off to Brazil, where they will be involved in mission work there for 10 days. What an incredible undertaking for a church our size. It is exciting to be involved in God's kingdom activity.
On another note: It was a sorry weekend for sports! The US Open was the worst I have ever seen. I don't think anyone won the thing. Goeff Oglivy simply won it by default. Colen Montgomery has a chance to win his 1st major: Double bogey on 18. Phil Mickelson comes to 18 with a one shot lead: Double bogeys 18. It was pathetic.
And the Mavs! I'm hearing a lot of crying about the officiating, and it does seem to be slanted. BUT- the Mavs appear to be choking big-time. Dirk, where are you? You are supposed to be a superstar. A go-to guy. And you have disappeared from the radar!
Oh, well. Maybe their fortunes will change when they come home to Dallas.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Father's Day
My father passed away 10 years ago in May. He was only 66. He had suffered a minor heart attack a few days earlier. The doctor was going to release him, but he 1st had to pass a stress test. While on the treadmill, my dad suffered a massive heart attack and died.
There were contributing factors to him being in such bad physical condition. For one, my dad was a smoker. But also, my dad was a recovering alchoholic who had abused his body for 40+ years.
As a child, I had good memories of my dad, because it seems that every weekend we were either going fishing or golfing together. But at about the age of 12 it began to sink in to me that he wanted to be with me so that he could get away from my mom and drink. So at that point, I became embittered toward my dad -- feeling like he was using me for his selfish pursuits.
When he reached his 50s, my dad's addiction began to affect his work. He worked for IBM for 42 years, and had moved up the ladder of middle management. But then, he received a couple of demotions. Finally, IBM gave him an untimatum: Get treatment for your addiction or be terminated.
So, at the age of 59 my dad went into treatment, and turned his life around. He retired a couple of years later. He went to AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) nearly every day. It became his passion -- serving others. He went into the jails and helped struggling alcoholics and drug addicts. In fact, he brought several of them to the Lord. His life began to reflect a beautiful peace as he surrendered it more and more to the Lord.
I will always treasure the letter my dad wrote me during this period of his life. He apologized for the way he had used me. He expressed sorrow for not having been a better dad. He told me how proud he was of me.
Today, I am an ACOA (Adult Child of an Alcoholic), which I have discovered through research brings with it a lot of baggage. But I don't resent my dad. In fact, I am so proud of the way he left. His whole life was tormented by some demon -- and I may never fully understand what it was. But he went out well -- and I am realizing more each day just how important that is.
I miss you, Dad. And I'm proud of you.
There were contributing factors to him being in such bad physical condition. For one, my dad was a smoker. But also, my dad was a recovering alchoholic who had abused his body for 40+ years.
As a child, I had good memories of my dad, because it seems that every weekend we were either going fishing or golfing together. But at about the age of 12 it began to sink in to me that he wanted to be with me so that he could get away from my mom and drink. So at that point, I became embittered toward my dad -- feeling like he was using me for his selfish pursuits.
When he reached his 50s, my dad's addiction began to affect his work. He worked for IBM for 42 years, and had moved up the ladder of middle management. But then, he received a couple of demotions. Finally, IBM gave him an untimatum: Get treatment for your addiction or be terminated.
So, at the age of 59 my dad went into treatment, and turned his life around. He retired a couple of years later. He went to AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) nearly every day. It became his passion -- serving others. He went into the jails and helped struggling alcoholics and drug addicts. In fact, he brought several of them to the Lord. His life began to reflect a beautiful peace as he surrendered it more and more to the Lord.
I will always treasure the letter my dad wrote me during this period of his life. He apologized for the way he had used me. He expressed sorrow for not having been a better dad. He told me how proud he was of me.
Today, I am an ACOA (Adult Child of an Alcoholic), which I have discovered through research brings with it a lot of baggage. But I don't resent my dad. In fact, I am so proud of the way he left. His whole life was tormented by some demon -- and I may never fully understand what it was. But he went out well -- and I am realizing more each day just how important that is.
I miss you, Dad. And I'm proud of you.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Sports Thursday
It's sports Thursday. Today, the US Open begins. What a story it would be if TIger Woods wins. Can you imagine the emotion on Sunday -- Father's Day? I don't know if I have ever seen a public figure who had such a healthy respect and love for his father, who passed away about 6 weeks ago.
I sure hope the Mavs can win tonight! I don't think I can watch it! Basketball is too hard on me. I am taping the US Open, so I think I will watch it and just check in on the Mavs occasionally.
I am jealous. Beverly is getting to see Jed (My 9-day old grandson) today. She is going to make a quick trip to Houston late this afternoon with my daughter -- who is running an errand, and then coming back tomorrow. I want to hold him so badly!
Tomorrow I will write something about Father's Day. Last month marked 10 years that my dad has been gone. Wow! TIme flies.
I sure hope the Mavs can win tonight! I don't think I can watch it! Basketball is too hard on me. I am taping the US Open, so I think I will watch it and just check in on the Mavs occasionally.
I am jealous. Beverly is getting to see Jed (My 9-day old grandson) today. She is going to make a quick trip to Houston late this afternoon with my daughter -- who is running an errand, and then coming back tomorrow. I want to hold him so badly!
Tomorrow I will write something about Father's Day. Last month marked 10 years that my dad has been gone. Wow! TIme flies.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Memory Verses
Boy, did the Mavs let one get away last night or what? They had the Heat on the ropes! I hope that game doesn't come back to haunt them.
______________________________
Being at VBS this week has brought back memories from childhood: Memory verses. As I was shaving this morning, I was thinking about memory verses I learned in Sunday School.
Baptism verses: Matthew 28: 19-20, Mark 16: 15-16, Acts 2: 38, Galatians 3: 26-27.
Why we do what we do verses: Acts 20: 7, Ephesians 5: 19, 1 Corinthians 16: 1-2.
Verses about the importance of the Word: 2 Timothy 3: 16-17, 1 Peter 3: 15, Hebrews 5: 12.
THE verse about being at church "every time the doors are open." Hebrews 10: 25.
Evangelism verses: John 3: 16, Matthew 28: 19-20.
I'm not meaning to be critical. I am very grateful for the many people who touched my life in Bible Classes. But most of the verses we memorized had little if anything to do with the formation of a personal faith in Jesus.
I think the verse that has meant the most to me through the years is Psalm 1. A Bible class teacher I had in 5th grade (I think) challenged us to memorize that whole psalm. "Blessed is the man who walketh not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on that law he meditates both day and night..."
So, what is your favorite memory verse?
______________________________
Being at VBS this week has brought back memories from childhood: Memory verses. As I was shaving this morning, I was thinking about memory verses I learned in Sunday School.
Baptism verses: Matthew 28: 19-20, Mark 16: 15-16, Acts 2: 38, Galatians 3: 26-27.
Why we do what we do verses: Acts 20: 7, Ephesians 5: 19, 1 Corinthians 16: 1-2.
Verses about the importance of the Word: 2 Timothy 3: 16-17, 1 Peter 3: 15, Hebrews 5: 12.
THE verse about being at church "every time the doors are open." Hebrews 10: 25.
Evangelism verses: John 3: 16, Matthew 28: 19-20.
I'm not meaning to be critical. I am very grateful for the many people who touched my life in Bible Classes. But most of the verses we memorized had little if anything to do with the formation of a personal faith in Jesus.
I think the verse that has meant the most to me through the years is Psalm 1. A Bible class teacher I had in 5th grade (I think) challenged us to memorize that whole psalm. "Blessed is the man who walketh not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on that law he meditates both day and night..."
So, what is your favorite memory verse?
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
VBS
It must be in the Bible somewhere. But I haven't found it yet. Something to the effect of "Let every church set aside one week each summer for the kids. Let the adults, many of whom normally assume leadership roles in the church, spend this week dressing in goofy outfits. Sing songs with lots of clapping and physical activity. But let this activity be for one week -- and one week only."
Oh, traditions. Some of them need to be jettisoned. But many of them serve us well. I can't imagine what summer would be like in a church without VBS. We began ours last night. VBS is a week unlike any other on our church's calendar. It's a week where we tolerate things that would not be tolerated by many at any other time. It is a time of fun. It's a time where "old stuffies" let their hair down.
But best of all, it's a time for focusing kids on Jesus. My granddaughter went to VBS last night, and then spent the night with us. After we got home, she was talking to her uncle Josh on the phone and was telling him, "You know about the miracle: A little boy had a lunch, and Jesus took it and fed all the people."
In all my life, I've never been a part of a church that didn't have a VBS. And I hope that it's a tradition that will last through my lifetime.
Oh, traditions. Some of them need to be jettisoned. But many of them serve us well. I can't imagine what summer would be like in a church without VBS. We began ours last night. VBS is a week unlike any other on our church's calendar. It's a week where we tolerate things that would not be tolerated by many at any other time. It is a time of fun. It's a time where "old stuffies" let their hair down.
But best of all, it's a time for focusing kids on Jesus. My granddaughter went to VBS last night, and then spent the night with us. After we got home, she was talking to her uncle Josh on the phone and was telling him, "You know about the miracle: A little boy had a lunch, and Jesus took it and fed all the people."
In all my life, I've never been a part of a church that didn't have a VBS. And I hope that it's a tradition that will last through my lifetime.
Monday, June 12, 2006
The Wonder of Life
I love the way life brings us gentle reminders. Last Tuesday morning, I held my grandson only minutes after he was born. I began to think about how he had gone from an environment of amniotic fluid to taking his 1st breath. I thought about how God had been shaping and forming him for 9 months. Heart beating. Fingers wiggling. Brain functioning. Eyes taking in all the sights.
And then it hit me: The majority of Americans actually believe this happened by evolution! And they ridicule us for our "faith."
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139: 14
And then it hit me: The majority of Americans actually believe this happened by evolution! And they ridicule us for our "faith."
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139: 14
Friday, June 09, 2006
I'm A Granddad Again!
Sorry I haven't been back to blogger land for a few days. I did try to write a blog day before yesterday, but the blogger site was down.
It seems that I have been taken captive this week by a cute little booger named Jedidiah David. Yes, my grandson entered the scene on Tuesday morning at 1:24. We got his mom to the hospital at 1:18. That's right -- no typo. He was born 6 minutes after she arrived!
He has now been home for two nights, and is doing great! He is sooo cute! Mom and Dad are fitting into their new roles so well. While here, we (Beverly and me) also got to visit with our oldest son and his wife. They have just moved to South Houston, where he begins his ministry this week with the South Central Church of Christ.
We'll be heading back to Decatur soon. I'm just warning you: Beverly has pictures. She has two cameras and a camcorder. So, beware!
It seems that I have been taken captive this week by a cute little booger named Jedidiah David. Yes, my grandson entered the scene on Tuesday morning at 1:24. We got his mom to the hospital at 1:18. That's right -- no typo. He was born 6 minutes after she arrived!
He has now been home for two nights, and is doing great! He is sooo cute! Mom and Dad are fitting into their new roles so well. While here, we (Beverly and me) also got to visit with our oldest son and his wife. They have just moved to South Houston, where he begins his ministry this week with the South Central Church of Christ.
We'll be heading back to Decatur soon. I'm just warning you: Beverly has pictures. She has two cameras and a camcorder. So, beware!
Friday, June 02, 2006
Life is Like a Book
I'm reading Donald Miller's book, Through Painted Deserts. In the introduction he says this: "every person . . . has to change like seasons; they have to or they die. The seasons remind me that I must keep changing, and I want to change because it is God's way."
He then compares our lives to a book. He says, "soon you will be in that part of the book where you are holding the bulk of the pages in your left hand, and only a thin wisp of the story in your right. You will konw by the page count, not by the narrative, that the Author is wrapping things up."
Things like that catch my attention more at this point in my life. I recognize that I probably have more pages read than I do left to read. But at this point in my life, instead of that getting me down -- I feel invigorated to make sure that I am where the Author wants me to be whenever it comes to to "wrap things up." Life is such a blessed challenge.
He then compares our lives to a book. He says, "soon you will be in that part of the book where you are holding the bulk of the pages in your left hand, and only a thin wisp of the story in your right. You will konw by the page count, not by the narrative, that the Author is wrapping things up."
Things like that catch my attention more at this point in my life. I recognize that I probably have more pages read than I do left to read. But at this point in my life, instead of that getting me down -- I feel invigorated to make sure that I am where the Author wants me to be whenever it comes to to "wrap things up." Life is such a blessed challenge.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Visions and Dreams
OK, I know. I know what Jesus would say to me (at least one of the things). "Oh, you of little faith."
For about a month in our mens' class on Wednesday night, we have been talking about capturing a vision for God's Kingdom work in Decatur. Last night was to be the culmination of it all. I had told the men that I was basically going to facilitate a brain-storming session, and if no one came with any ideas then I would be left just standing there. I really feared that this might actually play out that way.
But these guys came ready! There has obviously been a lot of time spent in thought and prayer. So, I again posed the question: "If money was no object, what could we do for the Kingdom here in Decatur?" And the ideas began to roll. A private school. Half-way houses and counseling for people with addictive behaviors. Food and shelter for the poor. A place for families to stay who have someone in the hospital. A Hispanic ministry. Classes offering English as a second language. Life skills for a well-rounded life -- physically, mentailly and spiritually. A senior bus to pick up the elderly for church and then take them out to eat, as well as on outings. A GED program offered by our church. Support groups meeting in our building.
I am probably leaving something out, but am going simply by memory. Now my prayer is that the Lord will lay a passion for these possibilities on individual hearts to see them carried out. Too often we have thrown ideas like these in the elders' laps, and then a year later said, "See, they don't really want to do anything." That's so unfair. I much prefer someone with a passion for a work being the person to pursue it -- with the elders' blessing and empowerment.
Speaking of which: Today Beverly and I begin a new chapter in a dream of hers. We (Jacob Baker is going to help me) are going to her Dallas office to get her furniture. We will swap it out in Grapevine, and bring her Grapevine furniture to her new office in Decatur. Until August, she will be in Grapevine on Monday and Tuesday and in Decatur on Wednesday and Thursday. We are so excited!
For about a month in our mens' class on Wednesday night, we have been talking about capturing a vision for God's Kingdom work in Decatur. Last night was to be the culmination of it all. I had told the men that I was basically going to facilitate a brain-storming session, and if no one came with any ideas then I would be left just standing there. I really feared that this might actually play out that way.
But these guys came ready! There has obviously been a lot of time spent in thought and prayer. So, I again posed the question: "If money was no object, what could we do for the Kingdom here in Decatur?" And the ideas began to roll. A private school. Half-way houses and counseling for people with addictive behaviors. Food and shelter for the poor. A place for families to stay who have someone in the hospital. A Hispanic ministry. Classes offering English as a second language. Life skills for a well-rounded life -- physically, mentailly and spiritually. A senior bus to pick up the elderly for church and then take them out to eat, as well as on outings. A GED program offered by our church. Support groups meeting in our building.
I am probably leaving something out, but am going simply by memory. Now my prayer is that the Lord will lay a passion for these possibilities on individual hearts to see them carried out. Too often we have thrown ideas like these in the elders' laps, and then a year later said, "See, they don't really want to do anything." That's so unfair. I much prefer someone with a passion for a work being the person to pursue it -- with the elders' blessing and empowerment.
Speaking of which: Today Beverly and I begin a new chapter in a dream of hers. We (Jacob Baker is going to help me) are going to her Dallas office to get her furniture. We will swap it out in Grapevine, and bring her Grapevine furniture to her new office in Decatur. Until August, she will be in Grapevine on Monday and Tuesday and in Decatur on Wednesday and Thursday. We are so excited!
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