Blest In Him!
When I posted on Monday, I had no idea that I wouldn’t be back here until today. The last few days have been a little crazy – blest – but a little crazy just the same. It’s comforting – even though the word comforting can’t truly express it – to know that God is ever present, and working on our behalf. OK – that sounds a little stiff, it’s true… but it sounds stiff. I would rather say that God knows me, and knows what’s going on in my life because He’s involved in it -- and that I know all is well because where the presence of the Lord is – there you have incredible hope, peace, power, and life. God and I have a good thing going – I know… it’s all because of Him – but I’m good with that.
As I said, the last few days have been a little busy. I want to say more about it later – but for now I have a few prayer requests I would appreciate you remembering when you spend time with Him – thank you…
1. I want to express my appreciation to God for making this a week full of wonderful blessings. Days are so much better because he is a part of them.
2. My mom is in Grant Medical Center in Columbus – her blood pressure was 80 over 58 yesterday, about mid-night it improved to 102 over 48. I was able to stay with her a while -- then returned home around 3:20 this morning. Thanks Deny for going along, and helping encourage her, and for all of you who have been praying already – thanks.
3. My good friend and bro in Christ, Deny Lemaster and his wife Leigh and family have been visiting his parents in Waverly for Christmas. Their plans are to return home to Missouri in the next few days – pray for their trip and the church that he is blessed to minister to there.
4. Innermission Campus Ministry – Sunshine’s ministry to Shawnee State University will be starting back up on Tuesday the 3rd. Pray for God’s leading and blessing on the students this quarter. Pray for me also, and all who help with this ministry.
5. My daughter has been sick for a few days (coughing, congestion) she’s a sweetheart, but she’s also a pretty sick little girl -- please pray that God will help her be well soon -- or as she would say "Dear God, thank you for my class, thank you for my snack, please make my cough go away...
I want you to know that I appreciate your prayers, and you’re always welcome to leave prayer requests in the comments and I’ll pray for you as well. As I’ve said before – my life and family have been so blest – we just have a few things going on right now and want to keep them before the Lord. Thanks for reading – and especially for praying.
By the way…There are so many good things that have happened in the last few days as well – God has definitely been at work in a wonderful way… as always! ...more on that later.
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Monday, December 26, 2005
Tooting God’s Horn…
When we received word on Friday morning that Alex Cram was worse -- collapsed lung -- we decided that we needed to go to the hospital and visit him. While we were getting ready, Kristin said, “I wish we had a gift we could wrap and take to him.” Then she remembered… while Christmas shopping she purchased a “just-in-case” gift. You know what I mean… someone is left out at Christmas and you wish you had something tucked away to give them. Well, my wife is really good at thinking ahead, and good at thinking of others as well, so she had a “just-in-case” gift. (Now don’t confuse this with re-gifting -- the ancient art of taking a gift given to you and storing it until the opportune time, then giving it to another for their special occasion. This is altogether different. The “just-in case” gift is a considerate gift from the heart, to whom ever it may end up with)
The gift my wife purchased was an M&M’s candy dispenser, with a large bag of plain M&M’s included. (I know, everyone who didn’t receive a gift from us for Christmas is now disappointed) As Kristin was wrapping the gift, I called Aaron and Kim (Alex’s Uncle and Aunt) to ask if he was allergic to anything in M&M’s as he has several allergies. Kim told me that he was allergic to peanut M&M’s, but that Kendra (Alex’s mom) had called and said he was asking for plain M&M’s, and asked her to bring a bag when she came to visit. (Now, whose idea was it really to buy a “just-in-case” gift? I’m really glad my wife is sensitive to God nudging her)
Anyway, this is where it gets good…
Kristin, Kendall and I walked into Alex’s room at SOMC, and Kendall is carrying Alex’s gift. He looked up, and was so excited… the I.V. in his hand could hardly hold him back. He is very sick, but was so excited to be playing with his cousins and to be visited by a friend (Kendall). A lot of things come to mind when I think of a 4 year old being in the hospital Christmas Eve -- or anytime for that matter -- crying, whining, pouting, sleeping, or just being upset in general. And that’s not even mentioning the parent’s heartbreak.
Not Alex… When opening the gift -- as soon as he could tell what it was he said in an excited voice “I love this!” Then he proceeded to share M&M’s, and the toys he had with the children that were there with him.
As we were leaving, we all paused for a few minutes to pray for God to heal and bless little Alex and his family. When the prayer was finished Alex said “I want to pray,” and he then thanked God for pretty much everything. He thanked Him for his mom and dad, the adults and children that were there, and he named names. Then he said…”thanks God for my Batman Mogile, (pronounced like mobile, but with a “g”) and for Santa Clause.”
When he was finished one of the adults pointed out that we – the adults that prayed -- asked God for things in prayer (heal Alex, bless the family) while Alex only thanked God. I was reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:7-8
"And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
Wouldn’t it be great to have the heart of a child, happy in most any circumstance – glad to share what you’ve been blessed with – with those around you, treating those around you with love, and just simply saying “thank you God for…” because you know He already knows what you need before you ask.
Sometimes God teaches Big lessons through little children with Big hearts.
Thanks…
When we received word on Friday morning that Alex Cram was worse -- collapsed lung -- we decided that we needed to go to the hospital and visit him. While we were getting ready, Kristin said, “I wish we had a gift we could wrap and take to him.” Then she remembered… while Christmas shopping she purchased a “just-in-case” gift. You know what I mean… someone is left out at Christmas and you wish you had something tucked away to give them. Well, my wife is really good at thinking ahead, and good at thinking of others as well, so she had a “just-in-case” gift. (Now don’t confuse this with re-gifting -- the ancient art of taking a gift given to you and storing it until the opportune time, then giving it to another for their special occasion. This is altogether different. The “just-in case” gift is a considerate gift from the heart, to whom ever it may end up with)
The gift my wife purchased was an M&M’s candy dispenser, with a large bag of plain M&M’s included. (I know, everyone who didn’t receive a gift from us for Christmas is now disappointed) As Kristin was wrapping the gift, I called Aaron and Kim (Alex’s Uncle and Aunt) to ask if he was allergic to anything in M&M’s as he has several allergies. Kim told me that he was allergic to peanut M&M’s, but that Kendra (Alex’s mom) had called and said he was asking for plain M&M’s, and asked her to bring a bag when she came to visit. (Now, whose idea was it really to buy a “just-in-case” gift? I’m really glad my wife is sensitive to God nudging her)
Anyway, this is where it gets good…
Kristin, Kendall and I walked into Alex’s room at SOMC, and Kendall is carrying Alex’s gift. He looked up, and was so excited… the I.V. in his hand could hardly hold him back. He is very sick, but was so excited to be playing with his cousins and to be visited by a friend (Kendall). A lot of things come to mind when I think of a 4 year old being in the hospital Christmas Eve -- or anytime for that matter -- crying, whining, pouting, sleeping, or just being upset in general. And that’s not even mentioning the parent’s heartbreak.
Not Alex… When opening the gift -- as soon as he could tell what it was he said in an excited voice “I love this!” Then he proceeded to share M&M’s, and the toys he had with the children that were there with him.
As we were leaving, we all paused for a few minutes to pray for God to heal and bless little Alex and his family. When the prayer was finished Alex said “I want to pray,” and he then thanked God for pretty much everything. He thanked Him for his mom and dad, the adults and children that were there, and he named names. Then he said…”thanks God for my Batman Mogile, (pronounced like mobile, but with a “g”) and for Santa Clause.”
When he was finished one of the adults pointed out that we – the adults that prayed -- asked God for things in prayer (heal Alex, bless the family) while Alex only thanked God. I was reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:7-8
"And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
Wouldn’t it be great to have the heart of a child, happy in most any circumstance – glad to share what you’ve been blessed with – with those around you, treating those around you with love, and just simply saying “thank you God for…” because you know He already knows what you need before you ask.
Sometimes God teaches Big lessons through little children with Big hearts.
Thanks…
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Isaiah 9:1-7
Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan—
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Merry Christmas...
Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan—
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Merry Christmas...
Friday, December 23, 2005
Christmas Sale – Revisited…
Almost everywhere you turn this time of year, you see signs promoting great savings… 40% off sweaters -- 50% off belts -- 60% off socks – the savings are tremendous.
You don’t have to be a veteran shopper to understand that even though some stores have a 60% off sale – you’re still unable to pay the price for the item that is marked for sale.
In Matthew 5:3 Jesus says…“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
This passage is very clear about my standing before God – a poor, bankrupt beggar – with not so much as two spiritual pennies to rub together. But it gets worse for me…the object of my desire is priceless -- not costly, or expensive, but priceless!
So here I am -- suddenly with greater knowledge of just how poor I really am -- because I now know that even if I had all the money in the world, I couldn’t afford the price of forgiveness, or righteousness before God.
So as I’m standing there at the checkout counter embarrassed and broken, trying to figure out just what I can and can’t afford, Jesus walks up and says – he’s with me – just put his with mine and I’ll pay for all of it together.
How do you pay for something that’s freely given??? You can’t! That’s just it -- and to think -- it all began in Bethlehem, with a baby in a manger…
O Holy Night!
Almost everywhere you turn this time of year, you see signs promoting great savings… 40% off sweaters -- 50% off belts -- 60% off socks – the savings are tremendous.
You don’t have to be a veteran shopper to understand that even though some stores have a 60% off sale – you’re still unable to pay the price for the item that is marked for sale.
In Matthew 5:3 Jesus says…“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
This passage is very clear about my standing before God – a poor, bankrupt beggar – with not so much as two spiritual pennies to rub together. But it gets worse for me…the object of my desire is priceless -- not costly, or expensive, but priceless!
So here I am -- suddenly with greater knowledge of just how poor I really am -- because I now know that even if I had all the money in the world, I couldn’t afford the price of forgiveness, or righteousness before God.
So as I’m standing there at the checkout counter embarrassed and broken, trying to figure out just what I can and can’t afford, Jesus walks up and says – he’s with me – just put his with mine and I’ll pay for all of it together.
How do you pay for something that’s freely given??? You can’t! That’s just it -- and to think -- it all began in Bethlehem, with a baby in a manger…
O Holy Night!
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Christmas Sale – Save up to 60%...
Almost everywhere you turn this time of year, you see signs promoting great savings… 40% off sweaters -- 50% off belts -- 60% off socks – the savings are tremendous.
You don’t have to be a shopping fanatic to appreciate paying a sale price for something you thought you were going to have to pay full price for. And then there are those who won’t even make a purchase unless it’s on sale -- We just like getting a good deal. It makes us feel like we’re good shoppers, or that we out smarted the merchants.
The thing that’s been running through my mind lately is this…
God didn’t find a great Christmas sale that night in Bethlehem. Jesus coming in the form of a baby -- was just that -- Jesus “coming” here, which means he left there… God gave the most precious thing he had -- his son. Why? So we could be back in right relationship with him.
Jesus didn’t find great Christmas sales that night in Bethlehem either. In Order for Jesus to come to us as a precious baby he had to leave the presence of his father, that’s priceless. But Bethlehem was only the beginning of a journey that would eventually cost him the greatest price -- his life. Sin is not over priced (for the wages of sin is death, Romans 6:23). Sin has always been very costly --and cannot be discounted -- and it cost Jesus everything. First his place at home with the Father -- then it cost him his very life.
Even though Satan offered Jesus a short-cut -- a sale price -- I’m thankful that Jesus isn’t a bargain shopper. If he wasn’t willing to pay full price -- Bethlehem and the Cross -- I’d still be standing at the check-out counter embarrassed and broken because I have no means to pay for the baggage I’m carrying.
Almost everywhere you turn this time of year, you see signs promoting great savings… 40% off sweaters -- 50% off belts -- 60% off socks – the savings are tremendous.
You don’t have to be a shopping fanatic to appreciate paying a sale price for something you thought you were going to have to pay full price for. And then there are those who won’t even make a purchase unless it’s on sale -- We just like getting a good deal. It makes us feel like we’re good shoppers, or that we out smarted the merchants.
The thing that’s been running through my mind lately is this…
God didn’t find a great Christmas sale that night in Bethlehem. Jesus coming in the form of a baby -- was just that -- Jesus “coming” here, which means he left there… God gave the most precious thing he had -- his son. Why? So we could be back in right relationship with him.
Jesus didn’t find great Christmas sales that night in Bethlehem either. In Order for Jesus to come to us as a precious baby he had to leave the presence of his father, that’s priceless. But Bethlehem was only the beginning of a journey that would eventually cost him the greatest price -- his life. Sin is not over priced (for the wages of sin is death, Romans 6:23). Sin has always been very costly --and cannot be discounted -- and it cost Jesus everything. First his place at home with the Father -- then it cost him his very life.
Even though Satan offered Jesus a short-cut -- a sale price -- I’m thankful that Jesus isn’t a bargain shopper. If he wasn’t willing to pay full price -- Bethlehem and the Cross -- I’d still be standing at the check-out counter embarrassed and broken because I have no means to pay for the baggage I’m carrying.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Acappella --
And growing to love the word…
How did it happen for you?
How did what happen? You ask.
How did you grow to love the Lord?
What drew you to him?
How did it happen for me? You ask.
I’d be happy to tell you!
First let me start by saying – I’m not as close to God as I need to be, nor do I love him as I should. But, I’m still growing, and he’s still drawing me closer and closer to him… thankfully.
There are a lot of things that played a part in my growing to love the word of God -- and his son as well. I was blessed to have godly parents, and my dad was the preacher for a small Church of Christ in southern Ohio. I say “was” because he passed away, in 2001. I was blessed to do his funeral on my birthday. He was an incredible man, a spiritual man -- who loved the God of the word -- and my mom is just as amazing.
It was common –- when I was growing up -- to wake up in the middle of the night and find my dad in the family room, or at the dining room table reading the word. I know that was very important in my developing a love for the word of God.
There are many other people and situations that have impacted my love for God and his word, but there is one group of people I would like to point out specifically…
The music group Acappella has played a major role in helping me develop a love for the word of God, and because of that -- love for God.
It has been such a blessing to grow up listening to scripture put to music. Don’t get me wrong, I love Contemporary Christian Music – just look at my profile and you can see that. But Keith Lancaster and Acappella have been such a blessing to me by putting scripture to song, and putting the word on my heart. Several of the scripture I have in my memory, I have because they sung it to me over and over through my car stereo.
One more thing, www.hosanna.org has a program called “Faith Comes By Hearing.” Several years ago I ordered their dramatized version of the Bible, it has a lifetime warranty against pretty much anything -- they really want to make sure you have the word with you. They even replaced the set I had worn out; they challenge you to do that…Cool huh.
So there you have it -- my growing to love the word story! Or at least most of it.
Thank you to everyone (dad, mom, my wife, daughter, friends, Acappella, Hosanna, preachers, teachers, children) who have played a role in my life by teaching me to love the word of God, and because of that, you helped me grow to love God himself.
And to you Father... thank you for showing yourself to me through your Son, your children, creation, and your Spirit. I know my very ability to love you -- comes from you... THANKS...
What's your story???
Faith comes by hearing…
And growing to love the word…
How did it happen for you?
How did what happen? You ask.
How did you grow to love the Lord?
What drew you to him?
How did it happen for me? You ask.
I’d be happy to tell you!
First let me start by saying – I’m not as close to God as I need to be, nor do I love him as I should. But, I’m still growing, and he’s still drawing me closer and closer to him… thankfully.
There are a lot of things that played a part in my growing to love the word of God -- and his son as well. I was blessed to have godly parents, and my dad was the preacher for a small Church of Christ in southern Ohio. I say “was” because he passed away, in 2001. I was blessed to do his funeral on my birthday. He was an incredible man, a spiritual man -- who loved the God of the word -- and my mom is just as amazing.
It was common –- when I was growing up -- to wake up in the middle of the night and find my dad in the family room, or at the dining room table reading the word. I know that was very important in my developing a love for the word of God.
There are many other people and situations that have impacted my love for God and his word, but there is one group of people I would like to point out specifically…
The music group Acappella has played a major role in helping me develop a love for the word of God, and because of that -- love for God.
It has been such a blessing to grow up listening to scripture put to music. Don’t get me wrong, I love Contemporary Christian Music – just look at my profile and you can see that. But Keith Lancaster and Acappella have been such a blessing to me by putting scripture to song, and putting the word on my heart. Several of the scripture I have in my memory, I have because they sung it to me over and over through my car stereo.
One more thing, www.hosanna.org has a program called “Faith Comes By Hearing.” Several years ago I ordered their dramatized version of the Bible, it has a lifetime warranty against pretty much anything -- they really want to make sure you have the word with you. They even replaced the set I had worn out; they challenge you to do that…Cool huh.
So there you have it -- my growing to love the word story! Or at least most of it.
Thank you to everyone (dad, mom, my wife, daughter, friends, Acappella, Hosanna, preachers, teachers, children) who have played a role in my life by teaching me to love the word of God, and because of that, you helped me grow to love God himself.
And to you Father... thank you for showing yourself to me through your Son, your children, creation, and your Spirit. I know my very ability to love you -- comes from you... THANKS...
What's your story???
Faith comes by hearing…
Thursday, December 15, 2005
The Rest of the Story…
OK, so there’s more to yesterday’s blog post than I told you.
I may have been holding out on you a little, but I’m coming clean now…
We all know that God’s timing is amazing, and his sense of humor…well… is out of this world. (ok that’s weak, but it will work for now) But for him to do this is bordering on ornery…
If you haven’t read yesterday’s post, “Nice Chair,” you may want to do that before reading this, (but I’m sure that if you can operate a computer, your mind functions pretty well, and you have already done that.)
…Before knocking on Vic and Arlene’s door I put my cell phone on vibrate (it’s the considerate thing to do before any visit) and then put it in my left front pocket, like always.
So I’m sitting in Vic’s chair -- Vic is on the Sofa -- and Arlene is sitting in her “new” chair. It’s important, if you are going to understand our conversation, to note that this is a farm family.
Vic, Arlene, and I talked about family and how blessed our families are. We shared with each other about how much we love Sunshine, and how we enjoy being part of such a wonderful church family.
Then our conversation changed, and we started talking about snakes… not people that are considered snakes that
would be gossip…
We started talking about the real snakes, and how many they’ve seen on the farm, and they’ve seen a lot.
Arlene said “I always see snakes between the house and the garage, and I get a little concerned that one day I’m going to find one in the house.” Ok, I don’t care if you’re “weak” or a “manly–man” that just makes your skin crawl a little, not much, but a little. It’s not like they live in a snake infested shack, they have a beautiful farm house. but now the thought is planted, “snakes”! (What’s that rubbing against your foot while you’re reading this? Just kidding.)
Our conversation about snakes went on for about ten or fifteen minutes -- and they are sharing some pretty creepy stories. Then Arlene begins to tell a story about a snake that she saw in the barn that had gotten down in the big tracks that the barn doors open and close on. She said “it looked like it had just eaten something because it had a big bulge in its stomach.” Then she went on to say that “it was really big and all curled around the tracks of the door.” Right then my phone began to vibrate in my pocket! I jumped, grabbed my leg, and for a split-second I thought a snake was in my pocket. We got a pretty good laugh out of that, and then we changed the subject, thankfully.
My God has incredible timing, and a great sense of humor! I hope you know him like that as well. I openly admit that he is so much more to me that humorous; He is Life, and the only reason worth living! But he is pretty funny from time to time as well.
So, do you want to know who the phone call was from that scared me half-to-death? Get over it…
OK, so there’s more to yesterday’s blog post than I told you.
I may have been holding out on you a little, but I’m coming clean now…
We all know that God’s timing is amazing, and his sense of humor…well… is out of this world. (ok that’s weak, but it will work for now) But for him to do this is bordering on ornery…
If you haven’t read yesterday’s post, “Nice Chair,” you may want to do that before reading this, (but I’m sure that if you can operate a computer, your mind functions pretty well, and you have already done that.)
…Before knocking on Vic and Arlene’s door I put my cell phone on vibrate (it’s the considerate thing to do before any visit) and then put it in my left front pocket, like always.
So I’m sitting in Vic’s chair -- Vic is on the Sofa -- and Arlene is sitting in her “new” chair. It’s important, if you are going to understand our conversation, to note that this is a farm family.
Vic, Arlene, and I talked about family and how blessed our families are. We shared with each other about how much we love Sunshine, and how we enjoy being part of such a wonderful church family.
Then our conversation changed, and we started talking about snakes… not people that are considered snakes that
would be gossip…
We started talking about the real snakes, and how many they’ve seen on the farm, and they’ve seen a lot.
Arlene said “I always see snakes between the house and the garage, and I get a little concerned that one day I’m going to find one in the house.” Ok, I don’t care if you’re “weak” or a “manly–man” that just makes your skin crawl a little, not much, but a little. It’s not like they live in a snake infested shack, they have a beautiful farm house. but now the thought is planted, “snakes”! (What’s that rubbing against your foot while you’re reading this? Just kidding.)
Our conversation about snakes went on for about ten or fifteen minutes -- and they are sharing some pretty creepy stories. Then Arlene begins to tell a story about a snake that she saw in the barn that had gotten down in the big tracks that the barn doors open and close on. She said “it looked like it had just eaten something because it had a big bulge in its stomach.” Then she went on to say that “it was really big and all curled around the tracks of the door.” Right then my phone began to vibrate in my pocket! I jumped, grabbed my leg, and for a split-second I thought a snake was in my pocket. We got a pretty good laugh out of that, and then we changed the subject, thankfully.
My God has incredible timing, and a great sense of humor! I hope you know him like that as well. I openly admit that he is so much more to me that humorous; He is Life, and the only reason worth living! But he is pretty funny from time to time as well.
So, do you want to know who the phone call was from that scared me half-to-death? Get over it…
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Nice Chair...
I love my job! I know I’m clearly unworthy to have it, but I’m so thankful to God for it. There are so many blessings he showers on me everyday from the family of God, as he blesses me with the opportunity to serve, in various ways, his family as a minister.
For instance…
While shaking hands with me at the back of the building, Vic Knore said, “Stop and see me sometime.” So I did! Most of you know Vic and Arlene Knore. For those of you who may not; they’re a wonderful couple and members at Sunshine. They are in their early to mid-eighties, and full of life and love for God and his family. Vic and Arlene are the kind of folks (I like that word.) you love to spend time with. You just feel better about yourself for having been with them.
Anyway, when I arrived at their house I was greeted just like the other times I’ve visited them, as though I was their favorite person in the world. After he invited me in, Vic grabbed my arm and lead me straight to his new leather recliner, (Arlene has one too.) The recliners were their gifts to each other for their Fifty-first wedding anniversary, incredible isn’t it??!! The chair was really nice - and comfortable too. (Vic made me sit there the entire visit.)
But the great thing about this visit was the company not the furniture. We spent about an hour together that morning, and they shared wonderful stories with me about their life together. They also shared how proud they are of their two sons, Dennis and Donald. When the visit was over and I was walking to the door, Vic and Arlene made it sound as if they were the ones who received the blessing, and as if it were important to them that I had stopped by. As I was leaving Arlene said, “thanks for listening to all of our stories, sorry for having so many.” I expressed my appreciation to her and Vic for sharing, and that I was blessed for having been there. Then I thanked God for an incredible visit, and also for the people in my life that make me a better person because they open their homes for me to visit them from time to time.
BTW- If I were to leave you with a scripture that best captured Vic and Arlene’s attitude and heart it would have to be …
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3
A great goal for Sunshine, and a fresh glimpse of Heaven…
I love my job! I know I’m clearly unworthy to have it, but I’m so thankful to God for it. There are so many blessings he showers on me everyday from the family of God, as he blesses me with the opportunity to serve, in various ways, his family as a minister.
For instance…
While shaking hands with me at the back of the building, Vic Knore said, “Stop and see me sometime.” So I did! Most of you know Vic and Arlene Knore. For those of you who may not; they’re a wonderful couple and members at Sunshine. They are in their early to mid-eighties, and full of life and love for God and his family. Vic and Arlene are the kind of folks (I like that word.) you love to spend time with. You just feel better about yourself for having been with them.
Anyway, when I arrived at their house I was greeted just like the other times I’ve visited them, as though I was their favorite person in the world. After he invited me in, Vic grabbed my arm and lead me straight to his new leather recliner, (Arlene has one too.) The recliners were their gifts to each other for their Fifty-first wedding anniversary, incredible isn’t it??!! The chair was really nice - and comfortable too. (Vic made me sit there the entire visit.)
But the great thing about this visit was the company not the furniture. We spent about an hour together that morning, and they shared wonderful stories with me about their life together. They also shared how proud they are of their two sons, Dennis and Donald. When the visit was over and I was walking to the door, Vic and Arlene made it sound as if they were the ones who received the blessing, and as if it were important to them that I had stopped by. As I was leaving Arlene said, “thanks for listening to all of our stories, sorry for having so many.” I expressed my appreciation to her and Vic for sharing, and that I was blessed for having been there. Then I thanked God for an incredible visit, and also for the people in my life that make me a better person because they open their homes for me to visit them from time to time.
BTW- If I were to leave you with a scripture that best captured Vic and Arlene’s attitude and heart it would have to be …
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3
A great goal for Sunshine, and a fresh glimpse of Heaven…
Friday, December 09, 2005
Donna K, more than just a waitress...
As soon as I walked in the door I knew I was being pulled into their conversation, like it or not...
Twenty minutes earlier I ordered cheese sticks from Pizza Hut on the Trail in Portsmouth, and now I was there to pick them up. The door had not even closed behind me and I noticed two women in a discussion at the counter. The tone of the conversation wasn't one of anger - more like disbelief, and misunderstanding. As I walked in Donna K. (clearly the best waitress Scioto County has ever known) greeted me with a "hi sweety", her usual greeting. She didnt greet me in this way because I'm such a great guy in her eyes, but because she's such a nice lady. She greets most everyone she waits on in a warm way. (she also brings me Mt. Dew before I even sit down - if I'm dining in. I told you she was a great waitress!)
Anyway... I said " hi Donna how are you today?" "Fine," she responds, and then goes right into ...
"I know you will think this is a great lesson opportunity, tell her it is."
She motions to the lady she had been talking to, and then began her story.
"My daughter (12 yrs. old) and I were working on the Christmas needs list (Donna is involved with Big Brothers, Big Sisters) for the kids who are in need, when she ran across the wish of a little girl who only asked for a hat - that's it! A hat. 'My daughter then asked, Mom, is this for real?' I said yes it is honey... she then went into the bathroom and cried, came back out and again asked, 'Mom, is this really for real?' I said yes honey it is, there are lots of children less fortunate than you. She then went back into the bathroom and cried again. Then she came out and said; 'instead of buying me anything for Christmas, I want us to spend that money on gifts for the children on the Big Brothers, Big Sisters list.'"
Then Donna looked me right in the eyes and said, "that's exactly what I'm going to do."
That's when the other lady, the lady she was in the discussion with when I walked in, spoke up... "But you're not getting your daughter anything for Christmas, she's not getting anything?!" She asked/stated this in disbelief. To which Donna said "that's right, tell her," she said to me, "that this is a great opportunity to teach something important to my daughter."
My turn...
Isn't it great to know that Jesus didn't expect the disciples to always know exactly what to say, so he informed them that the Spirit would give them the words. I know it's not the same situation, but I know the Spirit still leads his people today, and I need all the help he gives.
So I said... (with a convicted heart because of this wonderful story)
"The best times I've had at Christmas were the times when we couldn't, or chose not to have any or few gifts. Instead we focused on God and one another. Others have told me of the blessing thier family recieved when they chose not to buy gifts for each other, but instead bought for the less fortunate. Because the recieving doesn't get in the way, you can better understand giving, and of course that's what Christmas is, us celebrating God giving a gift, his son for us"
Then I looked at Donna and said, "The greatest thing about giving is that it's such a great part of Gods nature, and when we give we are participating in his incredible nature, now that's huge."
At that both ladies look at me and smiled, not that smile that says I wish he'd go away, But it was a moment - a God moving our lives closer to him moment. You've had those before.
Then Donna looked at me and said, "I'm really not getting her anything. They keep telling me I should get her at least one gift, but I don't think she would learn what she is supposed to learn from this."
At that point I was reminded of the words of David in 2 Samuel 18, when Araunah tries to give him everything needed for the sacrifice, David simply says "no I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing. "
I said, "it's not a sacrifice if it doesn't cost you anything."She smiled and said, "that's right, this is going to be great!"
As soon as I walked in the door I knew I was being pulled into their conversation, like it or not...
Twenty minutes earlier I ordered cheese sticks from Pizza Hut on the Trail in Portsmouth, and now I was there to pick them up. The door had not even closed behind me and I noticed two women in a discussion at the counter. The tone of the conversation wasn't one of anger - more like disbelief, and misunderstanding. As I walked in Donna K. (clearly the best waitress Scioto County has ever known) greeted me with a "hi sweety", her usual greeting. She didnt greet me in this way because I'm such a great guy in her eyes, but because she's such a nice lady. She greets most everyone she waits on in a warm way. (she also brings me Mt. Dew before I even sit down - if I'm dining in. I told you she was a great waitress!)
Anyway... I said " hi Donna how are you today?" "Fine," she responds, and then goes right into ...
"I know you will think this is a great lesson opportunity, tell her it is."
She motions to the lady she had been talking to, and then began her story.
"My daughter (12 yrs. old) and I were working on the Christmas needs list (Donna is involved with Big Brothers, Big Sisters) for the kids who are in need, when she ran across the wish of a little girl who only asked for a hat - that's it! A hat. 'My daughter then asked, Mom, is this for real?' I said yes it is honey... she then went into the bathroom and cried, came back out and again asked, 'Mom, is this really for real?' I said yes honey it is, there are lots of children less fortunate than you. She then went back into the bathroom and cried again. Then she came out and said; 'instead of buying me anything for Christmas, I want us to spend that money on gifts for the children on the Big Brothers, Big Sisters list.'"
Then Donna looked me right in the eyes and said, "that's exactly what I'm going to do."
That's when the other lady, the lady she was in the discussion with when I walked in, spoke up... "But you're not getting your daughter anything for Christmas, she's not getting anything?!" She asked/stated this in disbelief. To which Donna said "that's right, tell her," she said to me, "that this is a great opportunity to teach something important to my daughter."
My turn...
Isn't it great to know that Jesus didn't expect the disciples to always know exactly what to say, so he informed them that the Spirit would give them the words. I know it's not the same situation, but I know the Spirit still leads his people today, and I need all the help he gives.
So I said... (with a convicted heart because of this wonderful story)
"The best times I've had at Christmas were the times when we couldn't, or chose not to have any or few gifts. Instead we focused on God and one another. Others have told me of the blessing thier family recieved when they chose not to buy gifts for each other, but instead bought for the less fortunate. Because the recieving doesn't get in the way, you can better understand giving, and of course that's what Christmas is, us celebrating God giving a gift, his son for us"
Then I looked at Donna and said, "The greatest thing about giving is that it's such a great part of Gods nature, and when we give we are participating in his incredible nature, now that's huge."
At that both ladies look at me and smiled, not that smile that says I wish he'd go away, But it was a moment - a God moving our lives closer to him moment. You've had those before.
Then Donna looked at me and said, "I'm really not getting her anything. They keep telling me I should get her at least one gift, but I don't think she would learn what she is supposed to learn from this."
At that point I was reminded of the words of David in 2 Samuel 18, when Araunah tries to give him everything needed for the sacrifice, David simply says "no I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing. "
I said, "it's not a sacrifice if it doesn't cost you anything."She smiled and said, "that's right, this is going to be great!"
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Kendall, Flu shots, and a glimpse of God...
Here’s a heartbreaker for you…
So, my daughter has been a little under the weather, she’s 3 ½ years old. My wife makes an appointment with Dr. Hudson to see exactly what’s going on with her. Turns out that it’s an ear infection. A little medication and she’ll be back to normal. All is well, so far…
But here is where the excitement begins…
Before I left for Campus Ministry (Innermission) that morning, my wife and I decided that it would probably be a wise idea to get her a Flu shot while the doctor is examining her. (We all know how much children love shots, right?!) Well her appointment is at 10:30 so I decide to go to the Doctors office to meet them and help out with this process. The appointment went well; she laughed with, and at the doctor, and was in a great mood, for the most part. But then the moment of truth; we had been preparing her for the shot by talking and laughing about it, and she was laughing too. But then the nurse walked in with the syringe…
Immediately she crossed her arms and put her little hands over each arm at the place where shots are normally given. (This was really cute) But then the nurse begin rubbing her thigh with the alcohol prep pad, so she moved her little hand from covering her arms to her thigh while repeating “no shot”, “no shot”, “no shot”. Well, I can’t just watch my little girl get a shot without holding her and telling her it will be ok soon, but there is one more thing that I’ve always had to do with her that breaks my heart. I have to hold her little arms while it happens so she doesn’t get up or just interfere with the process.
So here is where we are at this point…
I’m leaning across her at her little belly area while holding both of her arms down. It is crushing to look into the eyes of your daughter while this is going on, because you know that she is thinking - daddy help me, save me from this. But you’re the one holding her down. Does she know that this is really good for her? Does she know that daddy would take any pain from her except for the kind of pain that can potentially save her life? I love and adore my little girl, and trust her to know it, and she does.
God trusts us to know He loves us so much more than I could ever love my daughter. I can’t even grasp that thought, but I think it’s really cool. And to think of the times that His heart has broken while he has had to lay across me and hold my hands while I look at him and say God/daddy help me, save me from this. I’m sure that even though he knows its best, the thought of my pain and disappointment has to break his heart.
I can’t imagine all the things God has saved me from in my life. I know that at times my heart was broken at the events that were taking place, and in prayer I asked God to save me or deliver me from them. I know at times he did exactly what I asked him for, and at others he held me and trusted me to know that he would, and has taken all my pain away, except for the pain that would lead me closer to him.
By the way, she cried so hard during and for just a few minutes after the shot. My wife and I took turns holding her and calming her down. I carried her to the car, put her in her car seat, kissed her and my wife and said see you this evening. And started for my truck…
As my wife was driving away she stopped, lowered her window and said with a big smile, she (our daughter) just said “mommy it was really nice of daddy to come and help me get my shot wasn’t it? " What a moment, for once I had a small glimpse of how God must feel when our hearts express gratitude to him, even when going through a painful time.
Nothing will come my way that hasn’t passed through his hand first. His hand and heart can be trusted totally.
Here’s a heartbreaker for you…
So, my daughter has been a little under the weather, she’s 3 ½ years old. My wife makes an appointment with Dr. Hudson to see exactly what’s going on with her. Turns out that it’s an ear infection. A little medication and she’ll be back to normal. All is well, so far…
But here is where the excitement begins…
Before I left for Campus Ministry (Innermission) that morning, my wife and I decided that it would probably be a wise idea to get her a Flu shot while the doctor is examining her. (We all know how much children love shots, right?!) Well her appointment is at 10:30 so I decide to go to the Doctors office to meet them and help out with this process. The appointment went well; she laughed with, and at the doctor, and was in a great mood, for the most part. But then the moment of truth; we had been preparing her for the shot by talking and laughing about it, and she was laughing too. But then the nurse walked in with the syringe…
Immediately she crossed her arms and put her little hands over each arm at the place where shots are normally given. (This was really cute) But then the nurse begin rubbing her thigh with the alcohol prep pad, so she moved her little hand from covering her arms to her thigh while repeating “no shot”, “no shot”, “no shot”. Well, I can’t just watch my little girl get a shot without holding her and telling her it will be ok soon, but there is one more thing that I’ve always had to do with her that breaks my heart. I have to hold her little arms while it happens so she doesn’t get up or just interfere with the process.
So here is where we are at this point…
I’m leaning across her at her little belly area while holding both of her arms down. It is crushing to look into the eyes of your daughter while this is going on, because you know that she is thinking - daddy help me, save me from this. But you’re the one holding her down. Does she know that this is really good for her? Does she know that daddy would take any pain from her except for the kind of pain that can potentially save her life? I love and adore my little girl, and trust her to know it, and she does.
God trusts us to know He loves us so much more than I could ever love my daughter. I can’t even grasp that thought, but I think it’s really cool. And to think of the times that His heart has broken while he has had to lay across me and hold my hands while I look at him and say God/daddy help me, save me from this. I’m sure that even though he knows its best, the thought of my pain and disappointment has to break his heart.
I can’t imagine all the things God has saved me from in my life. I know that at times my heart was broken at the events that were taking place, and in prayer I asked God to save me or deliver me from them. I know at times he did exactly what I asked him for, and at others he held me and trusted me to know that he would, and has taken all my pain away, except for the pain that would lead me closer to him.
By the way, she cried so hard during and for just a few minutes after the shot. My wife and I took turns holding her and calming her down. I carried her to the car, put her in her car seat, kissed her and my wife and said see you this evening. And started for my truck…
As my wife was driving away she stopped, lowered her window and said with a big smile, she (our daughter) just said “mommy it was really nice of daddy to come and help me get my shot wasn’t it? " What a moment, for once I had a small glimpse of how God must feel when our hearts express gratitude to him, even when going through a painful time.
Nothing will come my way that hasn’t passed through his hand first. His hand and heart can be trusted totally.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
I just want to say up front, that because I have a blog doesn't mean I think I have all that much to say. Nor do I think that the things I have to share are earth moving or profound. But I do know one thing, God has blessed my life in ways I never could have imagined or deserved. With that being said, I would like to use this space to share thoughts, insights, meditations, or whatever is on my heart, especially if it comes from Him. After all, that's the only thing worth sharing anyway.
So, I guess what I'm trying to say is... you never know what you'll find here. Maybe a scripture for the day, or just me thinking out loud. If you can use it, thank God. If not, that's cool, leave a comment saying hi, or just keep blogging and be blessed.
So, I guess what I'm trying to say is... you never know what you'll find here. Maybe a scripture for the day, or just me thinking out loud. If you can use it, thank God. If not, that's cool, leave a comment saying hi, or just keep blogging and be blessed.
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