What
Is It To a Vet?
She approached the old Vet
to thank him.
Saturday, November 11, 2023
What's It To a Vet
Monday, July 4, 2022
Independence
Today is the 4th of July……Independence Day in the U.S. Now that Social Media seems to have taken reign, I find it ironic that we Americans still say we are “independent”. Lol. That’s another story for another day I guess. But, we need to step back in time and take a real serious look at what got us this country of United States. King George of England wrote a letter from which I offer the following quote:
“The situation of the Kingdom is novel, the policy that is to govern it must be novel likewise, or neither adapted to the real evils of the present moment, or the dreaded ones of the future.
For a Century past the Colonial Scheme has been the system that has guided the Administration of the British Government. It was thoroughly known that from every Country there always exists an active emigration of unsettled, discontented, or unfortunate People, who failing in their endeavours to live at home, hope to succeed better where there is more employment suitable to their poverty. The establishment of Colonies in America might probably increase the number of this class, but did not create it; in times anterior to that great speculation, Poland contained near 10,000 Scotch Pedlars; within the last thirty years not above 100, occasioned by America offering a more advantageous asylum for them.”
The letter goes on a good bit about the fortunes of Great Britain. Our history is not without its doubts nor is it without its sins of selfishness, pride, arrogance, and continued revolutions. But, one thing our history is, is authenticity, sacrifice, unity, and a whole lot of faith. What our forefathers overcame is not without these things. Happy 4th of July, America. The beautiful.
Friday, April 23, 2021
Bad Marshmallows
During my fight with chemo and lung surgery, I came to refer to cancer tumors as “bad marshmallows”. It was a term I borrowed from another cancer patient and I use it in place of the word “tumor”.
All too often, people hear the word cancer and immediately associate it with death. Our society is built like that I guess. The same thing occurred with the word “covid”. I now coin the term “bad breath” to be used in place of covid. Like cancer, especially now, covid does not mean instant death. Indeed, it simply means one has the virus infection that comes from it......bad breathing.
It took almost a full year of being cautious for my wife and I to get our vaccinations. We got the Moderna shots. Throughout the entire pandemic pandemonium, we seemed to be just sitting there awaiting our time to contract the dreadful covid death sentence. By the grace of the Good Lord, however, we never came down with it. Oh yeah, we had family members get it, but none died. A close friend did die from it though. And then numbers spiked in spite of vaccines and people panicked all over again....and we sat and continued to await our turn.
Well, the thought occurred to me that it’s not death until death occurs. Until then, it’s bad breath. My wife got out and began volunteering to give the shots at a local, large vaccination center. She is a retired Clinical Nurse Specialist. She faced it head on like so many other responders. I asked her one evening, “Hon, what’s the best remedy for bad breath?” She answered, “Brush your teeth, use mouthwash. If that doesn’t work, you may have tonsil stones.” Don’t wait on your turn for bad breath. Get the shots.
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Angels
"You folks is angels. You is just angels is all I can say." Large crocodile tears fell from the corners of her sad black eyes as she told me this blessed thing in the cold morning air.
I Serve Ministries delivers 25 thousand pounds of free food once a month to the Commerce Georgia area. Occasionally me and some of my fellow church members volunteer to help with boxing and distributing it to several hundred people. Rain or shine they begin lining up around four AM to await their turn to receive, each according to his or her family need. They are hungrier than they should be. This day was no exception except it was bone chilling cold outside. It had to have been in the mid twenties when they started lining up.
On that day, I was a cart pusher. Cart pushers take the food in a grocery cart to the recipients cars. If we get the nod, we pray with them, encourage them, or, just generally show them the love of Jesus. What did he say? Something like, "whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me......." I never thought of myself as an angel though. I told that elderly black lady when she began to cry, that she was an angel also. Because she showed me the love of Christ. He makes it happen that way!
I Serve Ministries delivers 25 thousand pounds of free food once a month to the Commerce Georgia area. Occasionally me and some of my fellow church members volunteer to help with boxing and distributing it to several hundred people. Rain or shine they begin lining up around four AM to await their turn to receive, each according to his or her family need. They are hungrier than they should be. This day was no exception except it was bone chilling cold outside. It had to have been in the mid twenties when they started lining up.
On that day, I was a cart pusher. Cart pushers take the food in a grocery cart to the recipients cars. If we get the nod, we pray with them, encourage them, or, just generally show them the love of Jesus. What did he say? Something like, "whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me......." I never thought of myself as an angel though. I told that elderly black lady when she began to cry, that she was an angel also. Because she showed me the love of Christ. He makes it happen that way!
Friday, August 2, 2013
The Waffle House Whisper
Something beautiful happened in Waffle House this morning when I stopped there to have some breakfast.
The customer finished his meal and approached the cashier to pay up. His conversation with Ashley, the young waitress was as follows:
Having read her name tag, he said, "Ashley, I am about to do something I have never done in my life before and am wondering if you will help me out." She replied, "Sure, what can I do?" The man whispered to her so nobody could hear. He said, "I'd like you to quietly collect everyone's check and bring it here to the register. I am going to pay for their breakfasts." Although she gave him a very surprised and strange look, she did not say a word. She did as the customer asked. The customer pulled out his credit card and paid the bill along with his own for seven tables. I think the total amount was around 61.00. As he left, I noticed all the workers in the restaurant were smiling. He said, "Have a great day, yall. And, be sure to say your prayers." I can't remember which one responded but one of the waitresses said, "I always do!"
Having been a part of this experience overwhelmed me. I had tears in my eyes as I got into my truck to leave. Last evening at our weekly small group meeting we discussed those times in our lives when God whispers to us in that small, quiet voice that only He can use. We discussed how it is up to us to discern whether it is God whispering to us or whether we were going crazy or whether we just make these promptings up in our minds. Bill Hybels, the author of our study, provides us five ways to filter what we may think are whispers from God. Basically, it's to ask some very simple questions. 1. Pray, "Is this really from you, God?" 2. Can it be scripturally verified? 3. What would the wise people I know of think about my response to the whisper? 4. Would responding to the whisper be out of character for me? 5. Would the people in my life that I trust the most sign off on my actions?
Something told me as I drove off that I had been part of one of those small, quiet whispers this morning. I ran the experience through the filters I learned about last night and the customer's response to the whisper he had received passed them all in my heart. I remembered the story of Solomon and how God had whispered to him in the night. When I got home, I re-read the poem Bill Hybels has used all his life. It was given to him by his teacher when he was a child:
The customer finished his meal and approached the cashier to pay up. His conversation with Ashley, the young waitress was as follows:
Having read her name tag, he said, "Ashley, I am about to do something I have never done in my life before and am wondering if you will help me out." She replied, "Sure, what can I do?" The man whispered to her so nobody could hear. He said, "I'd like you to quietly collect everyone's check and bring it here to the register. I am going to pay for their breakfasts." Although she gave him a very surprised and strange look, she did not say a word. She did as the customer asked. The customer pulled out his credit card and paid the bill along with his own for seven tables. I think the total amount was around 61.00. As he left, I noticed all the workers in the restaurant were smiling. He said, "Have a great day, yall. And, be sure to say your prayers." I can't remember which one responded but one of the waitresses said, "I always do!"
Having been a part of this experience overwhelmed me. I had tears in my eyes as I got into my truck to leave. Last evening at our weekly small group meeting we discussed those times in our lives when God whispers to us in that small, quiet voice that only He can use. We discussed how it is up to us to discern whether it is God whispering to us or whether we were going crazy or whether we just make these promptings up in our minds. Bill Hybels, the author of our study, provides us five ways to filter what we may think are whispers from God. Basically, it's to ask some very simple questions. 1. Pray, "Is this really from you, God?" 2. Can it be scripturally verified? 3. What would the wise people I know of think about my response to the whisper? 4. Would responding to the whisper be out of character for me? 5. Would the people in my life that I trust the most sign off on my actions?
Something told me as I drove off that I had been part of one of those small, quiet whispers this morning. I ran the experience through the filters I learned about last night and the customer's response to the whisper he had received passed them all in my heart. I remembered the story of Solomon and how God had whispered to him in the night. When I got home, I re-read the poem Bill Hybels has used all his life. It was given to him by his teacher when he was a child:
Oh! give me Samuel's ear,
An open ear, O Lord,
Alive and quick to hear
Each whisper of Thy Word;
Like him to answer to Thy call
And to obey Thee first of all.
Blessings to you all. <><
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Dog Park or Kingdom of Heaven On Earth Around Us
The author of "The Divine Conspiracy", Dallas Willard, calls it the "Kingdom of Heaven On Earth Around Us".
I take Josie to The Rabbit Hill Dog Park. It's a wonderful experience each time I go with her. Those of you who have been to a dark park will understand what I'm talking about. A magical thing occurs the minute we enter the gated area for dogs. She takes on an air of total, complete freedom and I can see a burden immediately lifted from her shoulders. You see, at dog parks, it is "neutral" ground for dogs. They all know it. They don't have to be burdened withe "alpha/subordinate" thing normally instinctive with dogs. All of them, and I do mean ALL of them display this extraordinary transformation when they enter the dog park kingdom. There are always a mixture of dog breeds, some big and some small; some fuzzy and some short-haired; some log legged, and some short legged; some old, some young; it's a total mish-mash of diversity and ALL are equal. Their joy is un-surpassed as they frolic and do things at the park you'd never see them do anywhere else! The most significant of all being that they don't fight, they don't growl and they don't covet.....they share and play with the same toys and they all get along amazingly!
I guess the most amazing thing of all is that all the people I meet who have brought these dogs to the "kingdom" display the same trait! At Rabbit Hill Dog Park, I have never met a stranger. We all share common ground and we share our love of the dogs and we share smiles and stories about them telling stories of joy and pride. Occasionally, our stories flow into our own personal lives...you know, things that are bothering us and things we need and things about God and our need for Him.
Rabbit Hill is an escape from the "world" and a time for walking in The Kingdom of God on Earth Around Us. It is a prime example of the Kingdom that Jesus tells us about. There is no boredom, no tears, no pain, no worldly bothers there. I feel it the minute I enter the gated area. I notice it the minute I release Josie from her leash. Matthew 13, verse 44 tells us Jesus said, "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and his again. And from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." Go and read Revelation 21, verses 3 and 4! Then, after you read it, visit your nearest dog park and witness the Kingdom! Blessings to you all.
I take Josie to The Rabbit Hill Dog Park. It's a wonderful experience each time I go with her. Those of you who have been to a dark park will understand what I'm talking about. A magical thing occurs the minute we enter the gated area for dogs. She takes on an air of total, complete freedom and I can see a burden immediately lifted from her shoulders. You see, at dog parks, it is "neutral" ground for dogs. They all know it. They don't have to be burdened withe "alpha/subordinate" thing normally instinctive with dogs. All of them, and I do mean ALL of them display this extraordinary transformation when they enter the dog park kingdom. There are always a mixture of dog breeds, some big and some small; some fuzzy and some short-haired; some log legged, and some short legged; some old, some young; it's a total mish-mash of diversity and ALL are equal. Their joy is un-surpassed as they frolic and do things at the park you'd never see them do anywhere else! The most significant of all being that they don't fight, they don't growl and they don't covet.....they share and play with the same toys and they all get along amazingly!
I guess the most amazing thing of all is that all the people I meet who have brought these dogs to the "kingdom" display the same trait! At Rabbit Hill Dog Park, I have never met a stranger. We all share common ground and we share our love of the dogs and we share smiles and stories about them telling stories of joy and pride. Occasionally, our stories flow into our own personal lives...you know, things that are bothering us and things we need and things about God and our need for Him.
Rabbit Hill is an escape from the "world" and a time for walking in The Kingdom of God on Earth Around Us. It is a prime example of the Kingdom that Jesus tells us about. There is no boredom, no tears, no pain, no worldly bothers there. I feel it the minute I enter the gated area. I notice it the minute I release Josie from her leash. Matthew 13, verse 44 tells us Jesus said, "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and his again. And from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." Go and read Revelation 21, verses 3 and 4! Then, after you read it, visit your nearest dog park and witness the Kingdom! Blessings to you all.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Bullwinkle
My wife and I have a frequent visitor to our yard. Bullwinkle is a yearling buck that insists on browsing on my daylillies. Although I am reluctant to call him a "pest", it is rather nerve racking whenever he shows up because our dog, Josie, goes nuts whenever he wanders into the yard. She can't tolerate any intruders. She refuses to allow any other animals into her "space" because she owns it and covets it to the point where she loses it in barking and huffing and puffing when Bullwinkle visits.
The Bible tells us that Jesus was at times overwhelmed with crowds gathering into His space. Ironically, He usually welcomed this. His disciples often tried to protect Him from people crowding in on Him. One story tells us about a crowd one day and a woman, so desperate to touch the hem of His robe just to be healed. (Please read Mark 5:24-35)
We as Christians so often are reluctant to allow people into our "space". The only problem is that if we don't, we can't, like Jesus, heal anyone or comfort them. How much do you covet your space? Do you pick and choose who "gets in"?
Josie is the most beautiful little dog I have ever owned and she is so sweet. But, like the rest of us, she has a space problem! Let others in.....let them touch the hem of your garment and be healed today.
"Bullwinkle"
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Danny and Perseverance
A dentist, two Methodist Pastors, an ex-prisoner, a retired businessman and another businessman entered Lincoln County jail yesterday to speak, sing, pray and show Gospel comfort.
Danny, the ex-prisoner, matched all the male inmates we encountered. He had visible scars, including lewd tattoos everywhere on his neck and arms. He was partially blind from a meth lab that blew up in his face several years back, and walked slightly skewed from three near-fatal automobile wrecks. And, oh, by the way, he prayed as fervently as anyone I have ever heard. Danny led us in prayer before we left the parking lot to go in, he prayed in front of every group we saw, and he prayed in the parking lot before we left....for county sheriff deputies getting ready to get off work. The dentist, Gregg, had told us that Danny could give his testimony in thirty minutes....and Perry, the other businessman piped in with, "He could spend longer though if you let him." (He had heard the long version!) I had heard the short version over lunch. Danny hardly had time to eat for all the speaking he did telling us of a most tragic life style in and out of jail, in and out of prescription and home-made drug addiction, in and out of hospitals from car wrecks, in and out of marriage, in and out of and now back into spiritual renewal He seemed to live to tell of his salvation, about how Jesus had saved him, and about how now that he could not work a normal job, he could spend all his time "witnessin' ".
Some of the prisoners, including females we visited, Danny knew by name. He has been going to the jail for several years now doing this and it was clear he knew what he was doing.
The Pastor there read from James and gave a brief sermon to the inmates. He read and spoke from the book of James. "Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." (James 1:12) He spoke of how even we who are outside the prison are under trial and how all people must learn perseverance. The inmate's faces all reflected broken spirit, fear, uncertainty, determination, surrender, anger, vengeance....you name it. Some cared that we were there, some were curious as to why we would be there, some didn't care....all wanted to be in another place. Some didn't understand the word perseverance.
By the time we left, I felt comfortable and strangely contented. We had Danny with us.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Remember the Sabbath?
Sometimes, conversations about other people, loved ones to be exact, can bring out inspirations from the Lord that simply would otherwise not be mentioned. I was talking the other day about how some of us work so much that we don't seem to ever take a day off or take time to smell the roses. It brought a new thought into my head which seemed to ask the question, "Why did God COMMAND us to remember the sabbath?"
The NASB version shows it like this:
8 “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath of the Lord your God; in it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter, your male or your female servant or your cattle or your sojourner who stays with you. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and made it holy.
One of God's most blessed commandments, we break all the time with no thought that we are breaking it. Even on "our day off" we stay on call, or we work part time to earn a few extra bucks, or we work to satisfy what we think is a loyal and noble cause. Why do we break this important commandment from God? We would never, ever, think of breaking others of the ten commandments such as "Do Not Steal", or "Do Not Murder". What makes this one such that we can ignore it?
God gave this commandment I think to protect us. I know several people that died from work-related stress. I know of people that ended up divorced and lonely because they refused to take a day off with their families. Did you hear that? WITH THEIR FAMILIES! Not only that, but God meant also for us to be able to worship him freely, with no distractions; worship Him only.....not the dollar or the pride we sometimes get from being a martyr.
Check out verse 11 again. ".....therfore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and made it holy." If the Lord blessed the seventh day and made it holy, why would we not want to relish it? No matter what day of the week you choose, remember the Sabbath. It is holy. It is for your good and for God's good!
The NASB version shows it like this:
8 “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath of the Lord your God; in it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter, your male or your female servant or your cattle or your sojourner who stays with you. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and made it holy.
One of God's most blessed commandments, we break all the time with no thought that we are breaking it. Even on "our day off" we stay on call, or we work part time to earn a few extra bucks, or we work to satisfy what we think is a loyal and noble cause. Why do we break this important commandment from God? We would never, ever, think of breaking others of the ten commandments such as "Do Not Steal", or "Do Not Murder". What makes this one such that we can ignore it?
God gave this commandment I think to protect us. I know several people that died from work-related stress. I know of people that ended up divorced and lonely because they refused to take a day off with their families. Did you hear that? WITH THEIR FAMILIES! Not only that, but God meant also for us to be able to worship him freely, with no distractions; worship Him only.....not the dollar or the pride we sometimes get from being a martyr.
Check out verse 11 again. ".....therfore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and made it holy." If the Lord blessed the seventh day and made it holy, why would we not want to relish it? No matter what day of the week you choose, remember the Sabbath. It is holy. It is for your good and for God's good!
Monday, November 26, 2012
What's In a Biscuit?
Papa Jack's County Kitchen gave us a pretty good deal on sausage biscuits. For a planned community outreach, we purchased 150 sausage biscuits from Papa Jack's and set up two stations at stop signs in front of the church. On Monday, November 26th (the Monday after Thanksgiving holidays), we gave out the breakfast biscuits to folks as they were headed out to work in the morning. We started at 7:00 AM and were done giving them away at 8:00 AM. No charge, just love........
It didn't seem like that big of an outreach to begin with, however. We know we need to get out into the community more and be good Christians but something always seems to keep us pinned up within the confines of the church. So, instead of going door to door, we stopped folks from neighborhoods around the church as they were heading out to work after having a four day holiday. We gave them a free breakfast biscuit with our church web address and "Have a blessed day!" sticker on the wrappers.
Peoples' reactions to our good will offering were great! One guy came back by after running some errands and forced us to take a monetary donation for the church. Another person came back, parked in the church parking lot, crossed the street and chatted with the pastor about what we were doing. We saw many grins and smiles and received genuine thank-you's for what we were doing. We got looks of amazement for our braving the cold weather. We were ignored by some who were in too much of a hurry to roll down their window. And when the biscuits ran low, we got a little sad to see it all end. It was that good....it was the kind of feeling one gets when the bitter-sweet end to a mission trip comes. Often, you find yourself feeling more blessed than the ones you were sent to help and yet, without fail, you feel you blessed them. God made it that way. It was Jesus' plan.
He said, "Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, body and soul and love each other." It's what's in a biscuit.
It didn't seem like that big of an outreach to begin with, however. We know we need to get out into the community more and be good Christians but something always seems to keep us pinned up within the confines of the church. So, instead of going door to door, we stopped folks from neighborhoods around the church as they were heading out to work after having a four day holiday. We gave them a free breakfast biscuit with our church web address and "Have a blessed day!" sticker on the wrappers.
Peoples' reactions to our good will offering were great! One guy came back by after running some errands and forced us to take a monetary donation for the church. Another person came back, parked in the church parking lot, crossed the street and chatted with the pastor about what we were doing. We saw many grins and smiles and received genuine thank-you's for what we were doing. We got looks of amazement for our braving the cold weather. We were ignored by some who were in too much of a hurry to roll down their window. And when the biscuits ran low, we got a little sad to see it all end. It was that good....it was the kind of feeling one gets when the bitter-sweet end to a mission trip comes. Often, you find yourself feeling more blessed than the ones you were sent to help and yet, without fail, you feel you blessed them. God made it that way. It was Jesus' plan.
He said, "Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, body and soul and love each other." It's what's in a biscuit.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Was Paul a Brown-Noser?
Several years during my career, I found myself in the position of being thought of as the boss' "favorite". In fact, those years saw me winning top awards for performance, not only in extravagant trips but in pay bonuses as well.
I used to examine myself quite seriously and ask whether or not I was "kissing up" to my boss and I grew extremely depressed whenever I would overhear co-worker comments that alluded to it. The fact was I was only trying to do a good job and earn a good day's pay. I found myself, upon occasion, actually avoiding my boss to make sure that nobody thought of me as a brown-noser. Some days, I even let my efforts grow lax because of the dilema I faced. It wasn't easy for me.
I have come to the conclusion that what I misunderstood many times was the position that a boss holds. If you are the boss, who will you choose to do special projects? One whom you can trust and whom you know will succeed and complete the project on time? Or, will it be one whom you know will whine, complain and mess things up?
Certain things these days have made me think of God and the choices of people He made to do certain great things. It wasn't because those people were great or because they had any "super powers". God chose his people very carefully knowing that He could trust them and that they would hold true to His purposes. From Job to Moses, from Peter to Abraham, from Noah to Joseph, we see individuals who were unwavering in their faith and loyalty even in their faults. Was the Apostle Paul a brown-noser?
Before we go "blaming" a person for being the boss' favorite, before we go blaming the boss for "playing favorites", I think we should take a very long, hard look at ourselves. What are our motives and what are our intentions? How loyal are we to our company and how much do we want to see it succeed? Does our boss see this or know it? How much do we know about our boss and how worthy is our boss of our efforts? Is our co-worker and boss, whom we are criticising, actually selfish people only looking out for themselves or are they truly just trying to help the company succeed?
Pray about it. The answers will come.
I used to examine myself quite seriously and ask whether or not I was "kissing up" to my boss and I grew extremely depressed whenever I would overhear co-worker comments that alluded to it. The fact was I was only trying to do a good job and earn a good day's pay. I found myself, upon occasion, actually avoiding my boss to make sure that nobody thought of me as a brown-noser. Some days, I even let my efforts grow lax because of the dilema I faced. It wasn't easy for me.
I have come to the conclusion that what I misunderstood many times was the position that a boss holds. If you are the boss, who will you choose to do special projects? One whom you can trust and whom you know will succeed and complete the project on time? Or, will it be one whom you know will whine, complain and mess things up?
Certain things these days have made me think of God and the choices of people He made to do certain great things. It wasn't because those people were great or because they had any "super powers". God chose his people very carefully knowing that He could trust them and that they would hold true to His purposes. From Job to Moses, from Peter to Abraham, from Noah to Joseph, we see individuals who were unwavering in their faith and loyalty even in their faults. Was the Apostle Paul a brown-noser?
Before we go "blaming" a person for being the boss' favorite, before we go blaming the boss for "playing favorites", I think we should take a very long, hard look at ourselves. What are our motives and what are our intentions? How loyal are we to our company and how much do we want to see it succeed? Does our boss see this or know it? How much do we know about our boss and how worthy is our boss of our efforts? Is our co-worker and boss, whom we are criticising, actually selfish people only looking out for themselves or are they truly just trying to help the company succeed?
Pray about it. The answers will come.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
For the Birds
My pastor is a bird freak! He is constantly talking about his love of birds and posting beautiful photos of his latest conquests. He goes to great lengths to find places where he can get photographic opportunities on any bird he can see.
His motives for this obsession are pure and intricate. He says that birds show us a usually ignored part of God's creation, one that is taken for granted. He feels like birds are a way to stop and enjoy a readily available gift from our Father. Following is a quote from his blog:
"Birds are a beautiful part of life. Their songs inspire us—their appearence entertains us. But really there is a whole world going on around us that we fail to stop and notice in this hustle-bustle life we live. Through pictures, I like to encourage others to notice that world and to gain from it."
I had begun feeding birds before meeting my pastor and even purchased Peterson's Field Guide to help me identify them. Now, I enjoy discovering every new bird that shows up and look forward to sharing my discoveries.
You know, winter proves to me that God takes care of His creatures. Even when my feeders go empty a couple days, all the birds show back up when I fill them again. I know they can survive without me but I like to help. Blessings to you all. <><
(Enjoy my pastor's blog at http://devoblog.posterous.com/pages/bird-photography )
His motives for this obsession are pure and intricate. He says that birds show us a usually ignored part of God's creation, one that is taken for granted. He feels like birds are a way to stop and enjoy a readily available gift from our Father. Following is a quote from his blog:
"Birds are a beautiful part of life. Their songs inspire us—their appearence entertains us. But really there is a whole world going on around us that we fail to stop and notice in this hustle-bustle life we live. Through pictures, I like to encourage others to notice that world and to gain from it."
I had begun feeding birds before meeting my pastor and even purchased Peterson's Field Guide to help me identify them. Now, I enjoy discovering every new bird that shows up and look forward to sharing my discoveries.
You know, winter proves to me that God takes care of His creatures. Even when my feeders go empty a couple days, all the birds show back up when I fill them again. I know they can survive without me but I like to help. Blessings to you all. <><
(Enjoy my pastor's blog at http://devoblog.posterous.com/pages/bird-photography )
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Seeing is Believing
Mary is losing her eyesight. She is up in age now and slowly but surely, her sight is fading. The other day, while visiting, when I asked her if she wanted me and my Pastor to pray with her, she said yes. She wanted us to ask God to allow her to keep just a very small part of her sight. She said she didn't need a whole lot, just a little bit....just enough to be able to see how to get around in her little trailer. And suddenly, there it was again.....Grace. It keeps popping up, doesn't it?
I think in reality, Mary may also be afraid. She lives alone and doesn't have a 24/7 caregiver. Her daughter and son-in-law are busy working and only can attend to her in the evenings with spare time.
We were heart stricken deeply by Mary's humbleness. I mean, if I'm gonna ask God for something, would I not ask for 20-20 vision? It made me realize once again how selfish I can be in my petitions to our Father.
That night when I prayed my daily visit with the Lord, I prayed to God to allow Mary to continue seeing for the rest of her days. I prayed for Him to comfort her and always let her know He is by her side. Before too much longer, Mary will see like a hawk.
I think in reality, Mary may also be afraid. She lives alone and doesn't have a 24/7 caregiver. Her daughter and son-in-law are busy working and only can attend to her in the evenings with spare time.
We were heart stricken deeply by Mary's humbleness. I mean, if I'm gonna ask God for something, would I not ask for 20-20 vision? It made me realize once again how selfish I can be in my petitions to our Father.
That night when I prayed my daily visit with the Lord, I prayed to God to allow Mary to continue seeing for the rest of her days. I prayed for Him to comfort her and always let her know He is by her side. Before too much longer, Mary will see like a hawk.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
The Value of Home Grown
I literally hate to buy tomatoes at the grocery store. At best, I prefer to buy them at those little produce stands you see by the side of the road. Better yet, I love to grow them. There is something so very satisfying about going out to the back yard, picking one, washing it and cutting it up for evening supper's salad. Grocery store tomatoes are not tasty or juicy and somehow they just don't seem to "be from around here". I always look forward to April 15th. Usually, it is a safe date to set out your plants.
Perhaps it's the loving care you give them as they grow such as the battles you fight with the cut worms, the worry you have when you leave home and remember you forgot to water them before you left and all the hastle of tieing the stalks to the stakes to make sure they can't blow over from the weight of all that lucious fruit. And, believe it or not, I really do enjoy giving them to neighbors. (I can never eat all that I grow and it breaks my heart to see one go to waste. And, my wife doesn't can stuff.)
The good book teaches us that we don't need to pray for the Lord to make the job easier for us. We are to pray that we are strengthened for the job at hand. It's true. Test it! Grow a tomatoe bush this summer.
Perhaps it's the loving care you give them as they grow such as the battles you fight with the cut worms, the worry you have when you leave home and remember you forgot to water them before you left and all the hastle of tieing the stalks to the stakes to make sure they can't blow over from the weight of all that lucious fruit. And, believe it or not, I really do enjoy giving them to neighbors. (I can never eat all that I grow and it breaks my heart to see one go to waste. And, my wife doesn't can stuff.)
The good book teaches us that we don't need to pray for the Lord to make the job easier for us. We are to pray that we are strengthened for the job at hand. It's true. Test it! Grow a tomatoe bush this summer.
Friday, May 20, 2011
When He Comes
The jokes and hoopla continue as we enter the eve of the latest prediction of Christ's return to us. The story is that He will come to rapture all believers on May 21st (tomorrow). I read headlines this morning that there will be parties going on to celebrate the fact that the guy predicting this was wrong. (To be held on Sunday of course.)
Jesus said, "Only our Father in Heaven knows the day and hour." I take Him at His word for this as I contemplate what His coming really means. Prophets of the Bible related their experiences and visions in the only way they knew how at the time. In the end, it simply means we have hope that extends into time without restrictions.
Why would anyone have a party to celebrate the fact that Christ did not return yesterday? I can only ascertain that they either don't know the way, or that they simply don't want Him to return. Either way it is a sad statement that will be made and it will be a black eye once again given to Christianity. Regardless of whether or not anyone predicts the date and time, in the end does that really matter? There will still be skeptics, there will still be believers, and, when it does occur, those of us who are righteous will join in singing and rejoicing praises to our Lord and Saviour. Those of us who are not righteous will bow down and confess Him as Lord of all.
Jesus said, "Only our Father in Heaven knows the day and hour." I take Him at His word for this as I contemplate what His coming really means. Prophets of the Bible related their experiences and visions in the only way they knew how at the time. In the end, it simply means we have hope that extends into time without restrictions.
Why would anyone have a party to celebrate the fact that Christ did not return yesterday? I can only ascertain that they either don't know the way, or that they simply don't want Him to return. Either way it is a sad statement that will be made and it will be a black eye once again given to Christianity. Regardless of whether or not anyone predicts the date and time, in the end does that really matter? There will still be skeptics, there will still be believers, and, when it does occur, those of us who are righteous will join in singing and rejoicing praises to our Lord and Saviour. Those of us who are not righteous will bow down and confess Him as Lord of all.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Pony Express
Today is Thursday and we haven't had a mail delivery since last Saturday. The snow event here shut down mail carriers due to ice and snow on the roads.
Today, we were able to get out of the neighborhood and go to the grocery store. It seems like spring with the sun out and the ice melting finally. On the way, my wife brought up that perhaps the mail would be delivered today having spied a mail truck. We laughed and joked about where the old saying went... "neither rain, nor sleet nor snow..." (you know the one).
I guess with all the i-phones and computers, the U.S. Mail is taking a new look. Nothing real good ever comes in the U.S. Mail any more unless it is something you bought on-line. Even bills get delivered on line anymore and the people you owe frown when they have to send your bill by "snail mail", not to mention that the competition from UPS and Fedex seem to be more prominent. I saw in the headlines this morning that the U.S. Treasury is now going to offer debit cards instead of refund checks to those fortunate enough to get something back this year. I wonder how they will send them out?
The best time to get mail continues to be Chrismas. Christmas cards are much better if delivered in the U.S. Mail. They are more personal and bring you closer to your friends and relatives. I can't remember the last time I received a hand-written letter from anyone....i'd still like that. I miss good mail. I keep a supply of stamps although I can't remember the last one I used except for mailing out some Christmas cards this year.
I guess the old saying has fallen by the wayside. Very few things make it vital that the mail be on time in today's world of data bits and megabytes. Still, if you really want to show someone you love them, sit down at the table with a pen and paper and write them a letter. (If you can't remember cursive writing, print.)
Today, we were able to get out of the neighborhood and go to the grocery store. It seems like spring with the sun out and the ice melting finally. On the way, my wife brought up that perhaps the mail would be delivered today having spied a mail truck. We laughed and joked about where the old saying went... "neither rain, nor sleet nor snow..." (you know the one).
I guess with all the i-phones and computers, the U.S. Mail is taking a new look. Nothing real good ever comes in the U.S. Mail any more unless it is something you bought on-line. Even bills get delivered on line anymore and the people you owe frown when they have to send your bill by "snail mail", not to mention that the competition from UPS and Fedex seem to be more prominent. I saw in the headlines this morning that the U.S. Treasury is now going to offer debit cards instead of refund checks to those fortunate enough to get something back this year. I wonder how they will send them out?
The best time to get mail continues to be Chrismas. Christmas cards are much better if delivered in the U.S. Mail. They are more personal and bring you closer to your friends and relatives. I can't remember the last time I received a hand-written letter from anyone....i'd still like that. I miss good mail. I keep a supply of stamps although I can't remember the last one I used except for mailing out some Christmas cards this year.
I guess the old saying has fallen by the wayside. Very few things make it vital that the mail be on time in today's world of data bits and megabytes. Still, if you really want to show someone you love them, sit down at the table with a pen and paper and write them a letter. (If you can't remember cursive writing, print.)
Saturday, December 25, 2010
What's In a Name?
The book of Isaiah, Chapter 7, verse 14 shows us a prophesy that rang true 'til this day and will always be. Matthew confirmed it in the Gospel, Chapter 1, verse 23. We don't just celebrate His birthday...we celebrate the fact that He is with us!
Wonderful, Counselor, the Alpha and Omega, King of kings, Yaweh, Son of God, Son of man, Rabbi, Healer, The Great I AM, Our Father, Creator of Heaven and of Earth, Most High, Redeemer, Savior, Jehovah, Comforter, The Way, The Truth, The Light, and most of all Emmanuel....God with us.
Sing praises to the Lord this day and unto Him be thankful. For, by His Hands, we are fed, we are blessed, we are saved, we are set free from the slavery of sin, and we live eternally. Celebrate and be joyful.
Wonderful, Counselor, the Alpha and Omega, King of kings, Yaweh, Son of God, Son of man, Rabbi, Healer, The Great I AM, Our Father, Creator of Heaven and of Earth, Most High, Redeemer, Savior, Jehovah, Comforter, The Way, The Truth, The Light, and most of all Emmanuel....God with us.
Sing praises to the Lord this day and unto Him be thankful. For, by His Hands, we are fed, we are blessed, we are saved, we are set free from the slavery of sin, and we live eternally. Celebrate and be joyful.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Behind the Scenes, One Week
The phone rang just as he sat down to enjoy one of his favorite meals. It was one of the husbands at church. His wife had just been admitted to the hospital after having been rushed to the hospital emergency room. As was the usual procedure, he finished the conversation and stepped back into the dining area and told his wife he had to miss supper again and head on over to the hospital. It was a long drive and he'd probably not get back home til late. He'd grab a burger on the road.
If she knew, she would not have complained to some other ladies at church that he had not visited her today after she had that elective surgery to have that aggravating wart on her finger removed.
He got home after midnight, tired and worn out not just from driving but from praying with the husband over his wife and consoling bunches of family members. He grabbed a quick glass of milk, brushed his teeth and got down to say his nightly prayers. He dreaded it but tomorrow would be a busy day. It was Wednesday and he had not even started on his weekly sermon.
The course of study was grueling but he was forced to take it in order keep up with what he needed to do to maintain his ministry position. A book to finish reading and a paper to write before Saturday loomed on his horizon. He would finish on time though.....it's just the way it was unfolding.
If they knew, they would not complain about his spending "too much time" at home.
He had just finished reading the last chapter of the assigned reading and was about to start on his paper when the phone rang again. The secretary at church was calling about a man that had showed up at church. Destitute, dirty, hungry and desparate, the man was begging for help. He switched off his computer and got dressed and headed to the church. The man was waiting there and after the usual questioning and consolations, left with fifty dollars he had not had when he arrived. It was from the pastor's pocket. He got to bed after midnight...again.
If they knew, they wouldn't squabble so much about his salary come budget time each year. If they knew, they would not complain behind his back about sermons involving tithing.
Sunday arrived and God as usual had placed wonderful, soothing words into his mouth. As the people were filing out, many of them complimented his words and told him how inspiring they had been. All smiles, all filled with joy. They were looking forward to next Sunday.
If they only knew...............
If she knew, she would not have complained to some other ladies at church that he had not visited her today after she had that elective surgery to have that aggravating wart on her finger removed.
He got home after midnight, tired and worn out not just from driving but from praying with the husband over his wife and consoling bunches of family members. He grabbed a quick glass of milk, brushed his teeth and got down to say his nightly prayers. He dreaded it but tomorrow would be a busy day. It was Wednesday and he had not even started on his weekly sermon.
The course of study was grueling but he was forced to take it in order keep up with what he needed to do to maintain his ministry position. A book to finish reading and a paper to write before Saturday loomed on his horizon. He would finish on time though.....it's just the way it was unfolding.
If they knew, they would not complain about his spending "too much time" at home.
He had just finished reading the last chapter of the assigned reading and was about to start on his paper when the phone rang again. The secretary at church was calling about a man that had showed up at church. Destitute, dirty, hungry and desparate, the man was begging for help. He switched off his computer and got dressed and headed to the church. The man was waiting there and after the usual questioning and consolations, left with fifty dollars he had not had when he arrived. It was from the pastor's pocket. He got to bed after midnight...again.
If they knew, they wouldn't squabble so much about his salary come budget time each year. If they knew, they would not complain behind his back about sermons involving tithing.
Sunday arrived and God as usual had placed wonderful, soothing words into his mouth. As the people were filing out, many of them complimented his words and told him how inspiring they had been. All smiles, all filled with joy. They were looking forward to next Sunday.
If they only knew...............
Monday, November 8, 2010
Dad Hopes
My youngest son has a friend in prison right now. He and his wife are going to visit this friend this Thursday. We were discussing it last night and I told him how proud I was of them deciding to go there and visit. It is, after all, one of the things Jesus told us to do.
Our conversation led to a discussion about where or how did his friend's parents go wrong. I mentioned, that parenting doesn't have a handbook and lots of times, it is not to be blamed on the parents. Sometimes, when a person leaves home, the world just grabs hold of them and won't let go. Sometimes, it's hanging out with the wrong crowd and sometimes it's heartbreaks or fear that leads one further into trouble. My son feels like his friend's parents babied the guy too much. He talked about how the mother even used to call in sick for his buddy so he wouldn't have to go to school or go to work. He mentioned his friend did not have much of a relationship with his dad...it seems that his dad was always working....even though he is a very good man; you know...Christian and all that jazz.
This of course led us to talking about "tough love". You've heard of it before. It's when a parent allows the child to experience the results or consequences of a mistake and enforces that child to take responsibility for their actions. That leads to learning, that leads to character building.
My son wanted to know how a father should learn to administer tough love. Again, no handbook. I told him he has to be very careful to make sure that the situation calls for it. If it's given under the wrong circumstances, it could hurt more than help. God is a lot like that. It's where that old saying probably comes from, you know. It's the one where we say "God will not make me endure more than what He knows I can take." Some of us need to have more tough love than others. I know...I am one.
Pray for my son as his son turns one year old this month. And pray for parents that don't know the consequences of holding back tough love.
Our conversation led to a discussion about where or how did his friend's parents go wrong. I mentioned, that parenting doesn't have a handbook and lots of times, it is not to be blamed on the parents. Sometimes, when a person leaves home, the world just grabs hold of them and won't let go. Sometimes, it's hanging out with the wrong crowd and sometimes it's heartbreaks or fear that leads one further into trouble. My son feels like his friend's parents babied the guy too much. He talked about how the mother even used to call in sick for his buddy so he wouldn't have to go to school or go to work. He mentioned his friend did not have much of a relationship with his dad...it seems that his dad was always working....even though he is a very good man; you know...Christian and all that jazz.
This of course led us to talking about "tough love". You've heard of it before. It's when a parent allows the child to experience the results or consequences of a mistake and enforces that child to take responsibility for their actions. That leads to learning, that leads to character building.
My son wanted to know how a father should learn to administer tough love. Again, no handbook. I told him he has to be very careful to make sure that the situation calls for it. If it's given under the wrong circumstances, it could hurt more than help. God is a lot like that. It's where that old saying probably comes from, you know. It's the one where we say "God will not make me endure more than what He knows I can take." Some of us need to have more tough love than others. I know...I am one.
Pray for my son as his son turns one year old this month. And pray for parents that don't know the consequences of holding back tough love.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Room 6101
It is the last room at the end of a very long corridor on the last floor of one of the two hospital towers at Athens Regional Medical Center. It took forever for me to get there from the parking garage and I was greeted by a list of instructions for entering. "ALL VISITORS ARE REQUIRED TO PUT ON GOWN AND GLOVES BEFORE ENTERING. REMOVE GOWN AND GLOVES PRIOR TO EXITING ROOM." The gowns were this bright yellow paper-like substance and the gloves were the typical latex type, blue in color. I wondered what Robert would think of such a thing as I went ahead and "suited up".
My heart broke in two as I quietly walked in. He was laying there asleep and his little ball cap was on his chest. It's probably as old as he is, all dirty and crumpled. He always had it on when I went to his little trailer to deliver his lunch. I had never seen him without it on and his little bald head was shining. He looked cleaner than I remember. The room was dark and quiet and the only sounds were of his labored breathing and an occasional swish sound coming from the IV maching pumping some sort of life fluid into him. He wasn't hooked up to a heart monitor. He did have an oxygen tube on though, much like the one he used at home. I noticed next that his arms (wrists) were restrained, probably more for his safety than that of others.
Robert would have said that his room was ok. He's used to being alone and shut in, out of the way, ya know.
When my tears began, I prayed a now common prayer over him as I thought what to say.
I remember some times when I would leave Mr. McClures' place, I prayed to the Lord to not let it be too long before he gathered Robert into His arms and hugged him. In fact, I prayed it the last time I left his trailer, October 18th. I prayed it once more hoping in faith it was being answered as I spoke.
I will miss him.
My heart broke in two as I quietly walked in. He was laying there asleep and his little ball cap was on his chest. It's probably as old as he is, all dirty and crumpled. He always had it on when I went to his little trailer to deliver his lunch. I had never seen him without it on and his little bald head was shining. He looked cleaner than I remember. The room was dark and quiet and the only sounds were of his labored breathing and an occasional swish sound coming from the IV maching pumping some sort of life fluid into him. He wasn't hooked up to a heart monitor. He did have an oxygen tube on though, much like the one he used at home. I noticed next that his arms (wrists) were restrained, probably more for his safety than that of others.
Robert would have said that his room was ok. He's used to being alone and shut in, out of the way, ya know.
When my tears began, I prayed a now common prayer over him as I thought what to say.
I remember some times when I would leave Mr. McClures' place, I prayed to the Lord to not let it be too long before he gathered Robert into His arms and hugged him. In fact, I prayed it the last time I left his trailer, October 18th. I prayed it once more hoping in faith it was being answered as I spoke.
I will miss him.
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