Guess Who Juus Had His First Birthday

Ryan was born last year on September 11th. He has just learned this week to walk. Now that he's mobile his mother spends most of her day chasing after him.

Walking by Faith and not Sight

The year 2008 is zipping by quickly. In just a few weeks it will be time for the State Fair of Texas. I had the opportunity to work that event last year and enjoy the opportunity to meet some really interesting people. One of the favorite small shows that occurred multiple times each day was the "Midway Barker." Crowds of people would stop and marvel at what appeared to be a half man on a pole.

People of all ages would stand staring wide eyed at the "Midway Barker" trying to figure out his secret. They would even walk right up to his stage and stare at him during the his performance and every time he would immediately draw them into the act.


On several occasions, I had the opportunity to speak with the "Midway Barker" after his show. He is about my height -- 6 feet 1 inches. Now, I learned his secret, not because he told me, let just say I conducted some after hour investigation.


Sometimes in life we experience those things that catch us totally off guard. When they occur it initially seems like the rug has been pulled out from under us. The more we stare at the situation trying to figure it out and reach some understanding of what and why the more confused and frustrated we become. Maybe you've encountered one of those situations. Before it happened everything in life was going great, but suddenly without warning you found yourself facing the greatest challenge in your life. Being a Christian does not exempt us from any of life's challenging circumstances. We've been called to live our daily lives by faith, but many of us struggle with doing just that. For us, living by sight, that is trusting in our own understanding is our first and most trusted choice. Isn't it odd that we hold dearly to the belief that salvation is by grace through faith but when it comes to living our daily lives we rather switch to living by sight. The same Bible that tells us about the wonderful truth of salvation by grace through faith also calls us to walk by faith, not by sight.

Looking Back

Have you ever been looking through boxes of old stuff and discovered a collection of pictures causing you to instantly think back to some memorable time in your life?

That recently happened to me. The discovery was a bunch of old 35 mm slides of a mission trip I made to the Philippines in 1982. It was an awesome experience where I personally saw the power of our Sovereign God work. The Lord took three American believers consisting of a preaching from Goodwill, Oklahoma (far right), a retired printer from Dallas (second from left), and a police officer from Dallas (me, third from right) to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a Church located inside the main federal prison outside of Manila. [The other three men in the photograph included the pastor of the church (far left), a guard assigned to the prison (third from left), and a prisoner who was my main translator (second from right).] For ten days we traveled from our hotel in downtown Manila riding public transportation to the prison. We would spend all day proclaiming the Gospel in the three sections of the prison, and then each evening we would conduct a revival meeting at the little church for the villages that were scattered throughout the countryside within the prison compound itself. The revival meetings would last for hours. There was no quick thirty minute sermon with three points and a poem along with a few songs. They sang for what seemed like an hours just worship God. It was amazing to see God working in the lives of people who had nothing in comparison. Through it all, we saw over three thousand souls saved. There was a mighty moving of the Holy Spirit in that place.

I long to see that happen today. I long to once again experience a fresh moving of God's Spirit in my life. I believe the biggest obstacles facing my life today includes things like a busy life (no time for God, no time to read His Word, no time to pray, a day planners full of good things, but no time for what is best), an unwillingness or lack of necessity to seek God or to acknowledge His sovereignty over my life, and an attitude of self-sufficiency.

Lord Jesus, fill me fresh with your Spirit and help me to walk in Your ways. Amen!!!

Happy 36th Birthday

Today is my son's birthday. Yesterday we had the opportunity to celebrate Stephen's birthday with the extended family in Granbury. As you can see from the photograph it was not a traditional birthday cake. My son's favorite dessert is Key Lime Pie (bottom of picture). I think the cup cakes were for the kids.

As a father, I am very proud of my son. He is a very special blessing from God. It is fun as a parent to see your children grow up into healthy adults. We have been blessed with two very special children who love the Lord and our raising their children in godly homes. Each of our children have two children each. Too often the focus is on the grandkids -- like many I've been guilty saying, "If I would have known that grandkids were this much fun, I would have had them first." Now, I know that's impossible. But, if you're a grandparent you fully understand what I mean.

My son is a very special young man. My constant prayer is that he will love the Lord Jesus wholeheartedly and lead his family to have hearts that seek God. I am proud to say -- he does.

Happy birthday, Son, I love you!!! -- dad

Bops, we got a problem!!!

A couple of days ago as I was carrying a hot meal in a box lid out to the car using both hands to carefully balance the contents so that nothing would spill when my granddaughter Aby, who was in the spare bedroom where the grandkid's toys are stored, exclaimed in a frustrated voice, "Bops, we got a problem!!!

I glanced at her as I continued walking towards the garage. She had both her hands on her hips with a facial expression of total distress. Her head was cocked to one side and her eyes had this pitiful look beckoning me to stop immediately and fix the problem. There was not safe place for me to set down the hot meal so I told her I'd be right back. I was already a little behind schedule to deliver the meal to a family in our church who just had a baby. After loading the meal safely in the car, I returned to investigate the pending problem. The picture (top left) is an attempt to recreate the crisis moment. The "problem" that created all the stress was that the batteries in a toy fire truck were dead. The fire truck is a very popular toys with my grandkids because it has flashing red lights, a siren, and it plays music. For a 3 year old, it was a real crisis moment from her perspective and she knew that she could count on her "BOPS" to fix it (and I did fix it, but the meal had to be delivered first).

Hopefully you can see the red lights on the fire truck shinning in the picture (above center) as Aby proudly holds it up. Problem solved.

Have you ever faced a crisis moment in your life?
Who did you call upon for help?

For Aby, her problem on Monday was bigger than life and totally beyond her ability to resolve so she called upon the closest person to her at the moment for help. She knew from past experience that she could call upon her "BOPS" for help, and that I would do everything in my power and ability to meet her every need. Now, I ought to mention that when I returned from delivering the meal, Aby's focus had shifted from the fire truck to eating dinner and the earlier crisis was no longer an issue. I did replace the batteries today (Saturday; six days after the original event).

Life is filled with crisis situations that are much bigger than dead batteries. As Christians we have never been promised that we will not experience the hardships of life. BUT, we have a great priest in our Lord Jesus Christ to whom we can call upon and know that He loves us and is always faithful. I am reminded of the passage from Hebrews 4 which describes His greatness. "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus Christ the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are -- yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:14-16).

There is so much about the Christian life that I don't understand, but I know this about God - He is faithful.

In His sovereignty He always accomplishes HIS purpose.

I don't know about you but one of my biggest pitfalls in this journey called life is self-reliance.

When a "crisis" moment occurs, what is the first thing you do?

Three most common practices come to mind: 1) turn to God immediately; 2) blame God for not preventing the crisis from occurring; and 3) shift into fix-it mode to tackle the problem in my strength.

I know the the first reaction ought to be my immediate response, but the latter is most true about me. I am learning that those moments in life that most often seem to be a "crisis" from my perspective are really opportunities for my awesome God to demonstrate His glory. He has never failed me and never will. He is worthy of my complete trust even when life's experiences don't make sense.

The Newest Arrival in the Rockway Family

On Thursday, July 31, 2008, Sierra Alana Maddoux made her entrance. She is the daughter of Steve and Rose Maddoux who are apart of the Rockway Church family. She weighed 7 pounds 12 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long. She is a cutty.

Special Lord's Day

Sunday, July 27, 2008, was a special day for my family because my oldest granddaughter Taylor was baptized by her father, my son Stephen. I am excited for Taylor and her journey with Christ. I was reminded Sunday of how blessed I am as a parent to have two godly adult children who love the Lord Jesus and have hearts that seek after Him. I am very proud of both of my adult children - Stephen and Misty. Like most parents, there were days during their teenage years when you found yourself wondering if they would ever "get it," and by the grace of God, I can proudly boast that they have become responsible adults. The truth is that they both are much more mature at their age than I ever was at their age. It is fun seeing my children as adults and now parents. God has blessed each of them with godly spouses and two precious children each. It is my prayer that my other three remaining grandkids will respond to God's call through the Gospel and surrender their lives to Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior - that was my prayer long before they were conceived and it is my continued prayer today.

My Friend Billy

Monday, July 14, 2008, was a day of celebration. Pictured above is my friend Billy and his wife Marian. While pastoring a small country Church near Mineral Wells, Texas, I had the privilege to serve with Billy who was the worship leader. Billy died on Thursday, July 10th, and went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Billy was a gentle giant who had an amazing gift to lead a worship service. I already miss my friend. We spend hours together in Starbucks drinking coffee while conducting staff meetings. Billy and Marian were an amazing team who faithfully served the Lord together for years. I have conducted numerous graveside services over the years but officiating Billy's was special. The temperature Monday morning was nearly ninety degrees by 11:00 a.m., but a slight breeze and the shade of a big oak tree next to Billy's grave helped to create a mild setting. During the graveside service several Mockingbirds were singing throughout the entire service, and their songs created a peaceful mood. If Billy would have been there I think he would have liked it. I thank God for the opportunity to have Billy for a friend, and one day I will see him again.

What's your favorite memory?

Do you have a favorite memory with a grandparent? I remember the summer of 1962. I was fifteen years old. I got to spend the whole summer at my grandmother's home in Gold Hill, Oregon. She lived out in the country in the middle of "no where." Across the road from her house was the Rogue River. I went fly fishing almost every day that summer. I had a blast wading in the mountain chiled waters of the Rogue River casting a fly line across the surface of the fast moving water with one of my uncle home made fly hooks. I've never had the opportunity to go fly fishing since that summer at grandma Bessie's house. I'm sixty-one now, but the memories of that summer seem like yesterday. The other day my grandson Zachary spend the night at Bops' house. His favorite activity right now is helping Bops make pancakes. You ought to watch him crack the egg one handed -- I usually hold my breath as he does it. I have to help with the measurements but he does the rest. He loves to whip up the pancake mix after adding the egg, milk and oil. I wish I knew what he was thinking as Nanny took the above picture. He was busy making breakfast and Nanny interrupted his pancake making to take pictures -- not just one picture but a bunch of pictures. I don't know if making pancakes will be one of those special memory of Zachary's when he grows up but I certaining hope so.

If you have a favorite memory with a grandparent, please share your memory by posting it on this blog --- if that grandparent is still alive today, take a moment to share your special memory with them.

Happy Independence Day

We, as Americans, are truly blessed to live in this country. I hope that as you and your families celebrate this holiday you will remember that the price of freedom has not been cheap. Many brave men and women have paid the ultimate sacrifice to insure the freedom we enjoy. As a Christian, I thank God for the opportunity to be an American. God has blessed my country, but I'm am fearful that as a Nation we have turned our backs on HIM far too often. The consequences of such an actions have been disastrous. When ancient Israel turned their backs on the LORD, HIS response was to bring judgment on HIS people for their disobedience. HIS solution for their sinful behavior was simple. The LORD said, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14). I believe the same solution is available to us today. The tragedy today is that far too many professing Christians are trying to live their lives with one foot in the Church and one foot in the "world." The end result is disasterous. What our Country needs most today is to have a personal encounter with the LORD JESUS CHRIST. When professing believers in Jesus Christ live their daily lives as if HIS presence does not matter, the watching skeptical world takes notice and comes to the wrong conclusion that believing in Jesus is no different than believing in one of the false "gods" created by man.

As a believer, Jesus called HIS followers to be HIS witnesses to the nations of the whole world. HE said of them, "you are the salt of the earth" and "you are the light of the world." HE instructed them to begin where they were located and expand outwards form there to the ends of the earth.

I wonder what kind of impact my life would have if the people around me could see Jesus working daily in me?
I wonder what kind of influence collectively all believers could have if our lives truly demonstrated the power and presence of Christ in every things we did or said?

Why are the earthly words of Jesus in our Bible in Red?

How did we get the earthly words of Jesus in red? Why red? Up until two weeks ago as I was preparing for a sermon related to the new sermon series at Church called "Words in Red," I did not know myself. I'm almost in 61 years old. I have a seminary degree in divinity and didn't know until I "googled" the phrase "Bible words in red." There were several hits. I chose one written by the International Society of Bible Collectors. For many Christian -- like myself -- who grew up with the words of Jesus being in red all your life I never questions it.

When the original books of the Bible were written the writers of the Bible did not have a red ink pen and a black in pen. The origin of the red letter edition dates back to 1899 to a German born immigrant whose family moved to New York City when he was two years old. His name was Louis Klopsch. At the age of twenty he was editing a merchant's trade newspaper. He would enhance the columns by interspersing Bible passages in the text. Later he would by a print shop, and became a successful publisher. According to the article, in 1890 he was the American editor of the British weekly, The Christian Herald. Klopsch would later buy the paper and before his death in 1910 the paper's circulation had increased from 30,000 to a quarter million.

On June 19, 1899, while Klopsch was writing an editorial, he was reading the twenty-second chapter of the Gospel of Luke. His eyes focused on the twentieth verse: "This cup which is poured out for you in the new covenant in My blood" (NASU). The symbolism of blood and the color red caused Klopsch to conceive the idea of printing the words of Jesus in red. Klopsch asked a Minister friend by the name of Dr. T. DeWitt Talmage if the words of Jesus could be printed in red. Dr. Talmage is quoted to have replied, "It could do no harm and it most certainly could do much good."

In 1900, Klopsch printed 60,000 initial copies of the "Red Letter Testaments" and they sold out. The popularity of the red letter editions of the Bible has increased ever since.

I hope and pray that you will join me in study the words of Jesus whether your Bible is a red letter edition or not.

Aby's Elmo is my Friend

Well, this well be a short post. I had rotator cuff surgery yesterday. My granddaughter has been praying for her "bops," and she brought me her Elmo -- on temporary loan -- to help my recovery. Notice, Elmo has a "bo-bo" too. My surgery went smoothly. I've included a picture of me with Aby's Elmo. Also, notice the highlighted area of my picture for the latest in medical technology -- my surgeon, Dr. Berman, who I highly recommend, marked my right hand just before surgery with a big "yes" to indicated the correct shoulder for yesterday's surgery. I've never had surgery before so I thought it was kind of cool.

"It's hard to think without your parents."

We had the privilege to keep two of our four grand kids over the weekend while our son and daughter-in-law had the opportunity to attend a retreat. It was a fun and eventful weekend. My grandson Zach (pictured above at his sister's soccer game during the weekend) made some cute statements during the weekend. Zach, who is 3 years old, has a funny personality. On Friday, a few hours after his parents had left, Zach was walking down the hallway from our spare bedroom with his head hung kind of low while sluggishly dragging his feet, and I overheard him saying, "It's hard to think without your parents." Needless to say, when I finally stopped laughing, I had to give him a big hug. Zach also said on several occasions during the weekend while shaking his head, "I'm stuck here forever" (for him being at bops and nanny's house for 4 days must have seemed like a life sentence in prison). Needless to say, when his parents returned Monday afternoon, his world was finally set in order.

We Must Never Forget

We must never forget the costly sacrifice of the freedom we enjoy in America.

Today is a day to remember and give thanks for the men and woman who have served and who are serving in our military. We live in the greatest nation on planet earth-- if you disagree, then please pack your bags and leave. We may not be perfect by any means, but there is no country on our globe like the United States of America. Anybody can complain, but what are you doing to make our country a better place (sitting on your rump whinning and pointing fingers doesn't count)?

Peru Mission Team

It is exciting to see what the Lord is doing in our fellowship at Rockway Church. Please pray for Jonathan and Kacie who will be going to Peru in June. The dates of their mission trip is June 8-20, 2008. They are traveling as members of a team with To Every Nation.

A Divine Miracle Named Asher

Asher is a little miracle from God. Asher is the son of my daughter-in-law's sister, Jaime, who had experienced over the past few years numerous miscarriages. When Jaime became pregnant with Asher, she went into labor after only a few months. The doctors were able to give her medication to suppress the labor. Jaime was hospitalized several times during her high risk pregnancy and was finally confined to bed rest for over half her pregnancy. Asher was born about 9 weeks ago about a month early but as you can see in the above picture he is a healthy little miracle. I took this picture tonight at my granddaughter Taylor's school program in which Asher and his mother also attended. By the way, Asher was the 8th son of Jacob. The Hebrew word for Asher means "happiness." This little boy is currently bringing a multitude of happiness to his parents, and his parents give thanks to God for His faithfulness.

ALL HEAVEN REJOICES

In the 15th chapter of the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells some parables to the religious leaders of his day because of they were grumbling about Him welcoming and allowing the "sinners" and tax collectors to gather around Him. In that chapter, Jesus tells three parables each about something that was lost: a lost sheep, a lost coin, and a lost son (also, referred to as the prodigal son). Each parables ends with a statement of how we should respond to the finding of the item lost. Remember, that a parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning or truth. Parables only communicate a single truth. Too often some people try to force everything in the parable to have some hidden or special meaning totally missing the real point of the story. Jesus was addressing the unbelieving hearts of the religious leaders who in their self-righteousness looked down on others responding to Jesus' message. The last parable concludes with the "prodigal son's" father declaring in verse 32, "But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found." The father declares to the oldest son that it was a moral neccessity to rejoice in the return of his prodigal brother. The first two parables conclude with similar expressions of rejoicing. For example, in the first parable a shepherd had one hundred sheep and one wanders away. The shepherd leaves the ninety-nine who are safe and searches for the one lost sheep, and when he finds it he joyfully puts it on his shoulder and goes home. The shepherd calls all his friends and neighbors together requesting them to rejoice with him about his lost sheep being found. Then Jesus says, "I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over the ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." How does heaven respond to the salvation of one sinner? ALL HEAVEN REJOICES. Tonight along with all of heaven, the Griffis family is rejoicing in the salvation of my granddaughter Taylor who this evening prayed to receive Christ as her Lord and Savior. She called to tell us this blessed news. Folks, I want all of you to rejoice with me and my family. Bops and Nanny have been praying for this day since before Taylor was born. I thank God for His faithfulness. He is like the shepherd in the parable Jesus told. God was faithful to call out and search for this little lost sheep. Praise God. May 7th, 2007, will always be her spiritual birthday. Hallelujah.

Taylor Griffis-- this little sheep was once lost, but now is found. We serve a Great Good Shepherd.

Wife's Choice = "COW-A-SOCK-EE"

After almost 42 years of marriage, it would be wrong not to share my wife's choice in the decision making process. Her votes is for a Cow-a-sock-ee. I somehow doubt that the City of Arlington would allow me to park this "vehicle" at my home.

Still Time to Vote

It has been fun reading all the various responses that my friends and family have been making concerning the purchase of a motorcycle. THERE IS STILL TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE OR SHARE YOUR WISDOM. The range of these responses is wider than the Grand Canyon. Some chose to simply respond by e-mail rather that post their comments. My friend James from Church did both. He made a very thoughtful and encouraging suggestion and he sent an e-mail with a link to the BMW website suggesting the following motorcycle as an addition to the list.

Cool bike!!!

Now some of you have been very concerned that I have lost my marbles or must be going through a mid-life crisis. For example, cousin Alena whose posted comment suggested that a motorcycle is better known in the medical community as a "donorcycle" suggested a much more classic approach. Her e-mail suggested a link to a catalog page for the following classic.

Alena's suggestion obviously would get great gas mileage but the commute to Dallas would take a very, very long time.

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The number one vote so far has been -- go Harley. In fact, my friend Ray Shannon who retired from Lake Arlington Baptist and is now pastoring a Church in Canada suggested that I regrow my hair long like in my undercover days. For most of you who know me now as the "bald one," let me assure you that there was a day when I actually had hair -- lots of it. Now, after you stop laughing look at the below picture taken from my undercover days in May 1985.

Yes, that is me.

Motorcycle Selection

I have appreciated the measure of enthusiasm that my friends and family have given. Some have chosen not to express their opinions on the blog but the range from envy to insanity. Above are pictures of two front runners so far: a Honda Goldwings and the every popular Harley. Please continue to register your vote. God Bless!!!

Help Me Choose A Motorcycle

I need your help. With the price of gasoline continuing to rise I am seriously considering the purchase of a motorcycle. I need your wisdom in this purchase. So far, I am considering the following brands:

• Harley
• Yamaha
• Suzuki
• Kawasaki
• Honda

My number one pick so far is a Harley, but I need your thoughts. If you would please vote by posting your opinions I would appreciate your insights. I would like to make a decision soon. Maybe, I will even give you a ride when I've made my purchase. ALSO, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU THINK BESTS FITS MY CHARMING PERSONALITY?

The LORD'S Light Show

What an amazing display of the LORD'S awesome power tonight as I drove to work. Several bolts of lightning struck uncomfortably close to the roadway as I traveled from Arlington to Dallas. The whole sky would be illuminated with the bright light from each bolt of electricity causing the blackest darkness to suddenly be like daylight. The LORD'S return will be like that according to Luke 17:24. Jesus said, "For the Son of Man in his day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other." Come, Lord Jesus!!!

WHY GOD?

Have you every asked that question either privately in your thoughts or out loud screaming into the heavens?. "WHY GOD?" If you love me, why this? If you're a good God, why have you allowed this? If you're a righteous and just God, why have you allow this injustice to fall on me? Too often we live life under the circumstances, and we protest saying things like -- "Poor me." "Life is not fair." "Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?" Our view of God is so shallow. God is sovereign. HE is still on HIS throne. God loves you!!! God loves me!!! No circumstance can change that fact. God's love for us has forever been declared at the Cross of Calvary. "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). That truth is not up for a debate or a vote. It is absolutely true. It is totally raw unconditional love.
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I want to invite you to watch some short videos (links below) of an amazing young man with an awesome attitude. His circumstances are challenging, but his faith and love for God is awesome. PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES TO WATCH THESE TWO VIDEOS, AND THEN IF YOU HAVE ANY COMMENTS, I WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO POST YOUR THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DxlJWJ_WfA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhl6T_rqbpg

B-1, Bald Eagle, Texas Ranger Baseball, Hot Dogs, Friends

Tuesday, April 8, 2008, was really a fun day. It was fun for several reasons. I had the privilege to spend the afternoon with three friends at the Ball Park in Arlington, Texas, watching the opening day game for the Texas Rangers Baseball Team. The game itself was a disappointment because the Rangers lost to the Baltimore Oriels, but there were several cool things. It was really cool to see the entire outfield covered with an American Flag while a Bald Eagle soared around the Ball Park during the singing of the National Anthem. Following the National Anthem, a B-1 bomber fly over the Ball Park at a very, very low altitude. As the B-1 flew passed the Ball Park the bomber's afterburners kicked in as the jet made a steep climb. It was awesome. Another, fun thing was of course was eating a hot dog at the Ball Park. But, if I had to choose the one highlight of the day, it would clearly be spending time with my three dear friends. I thank God for them.

Celebrating Easter

His is risen!!!

My granddaughter Aby, age 3, came to our home today for Easter lunch. When she arrived, she came into the kitchen all excited and said, "Jesus is alive! He is risen." That was a really cool moment. Easter is a special celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord's Resurrection was God the Father's declaration that the sacrifice that Christ made at the cross was accepted as the full payment for our (my) sin. Hallelujah, Amen!!!

Today in our Easter Celebration Service the presence of God's Spirit was very evident. It was a wonderful time of worship and celebration of what Christ did for us through His sacrifice, but He did not stay down. Death could not contain Him. On that first Easter morning His arose victorious over sin and death. I am reminded of the words Jesus declared to a grieving sister, Martha, when He said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die" (John 11:25,26a). Having declared this truth to Martha then Jesus asked an important question, "Do you believe this?" (John 11:26b)

My pastor is currently preaching a serious entitled "Hostage." He is addressing some of those things that kept Christians hostage causing us to miss out on the freedom and fullness we have in Christ. You can check our Church's website (http://www.rockwaychurch.com/) for a podcast on his sermons.

Sadly many Christians are held hostage by the fear of death. Death is one appointment you and I will not be late for. We will all physically die. The only exception would be if the Lord were to return during our live time and take us home to be with Him. Come Lord Jesus!!!

Easter is a reminder that death holds no victory over the believer. For a genuine believer in Jesus Christ physical death is not the end of life. Remember what Jesus said, "He who believes in me will live, even though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." For me, death is not to be feared. I could die tonight, but if I do, please don't grieve for me like people who have no hope. Death is just the threshold through which we enter into our eternal destiny. For me, that destiny was sealed on November 10, 1966, when as a young 19 year old Marine in Oceanside, California, I invited Jesus Christ into my life. For some that might seem to be a little arrogant. Please don't misunderstand me. I don't deserve Heaven, but by faith when I accepted Jesus Christ -- I simply took Jesus at His word. Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). In this life I'm just a pilgrim passing through to my home in Heaven. While I don't know when that day will come, I believe that it would be foolish to be held hostage by the fear of death. It will happen. The number of days that I will live is already decided just as the psalmist declared, "All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be" (Psalm 139:16b).

Again, I hope you had a great Easter. I would love to read your comments about your Easter experience.

If the Lord tarries in coming to night, I hope you allow the Lord to use you to be a blessing in the life of someone that crosses your path. If He chooses to come tonight, see you on the way up.

Come Lord Jesus!!!

As Our World Turns

As our world spins on its axis for most of us life simply goes on as usual. Have you every stopped to seriously think about how much we take for granted? Me, neither! Usually we just kind of do life the same way we did it yesterday. We have our routines. After all it works for us-- so why change things? So, without giving any thought to the fact that our lives are in a rut which I once heard described as a grave with the ends knocked out, we go about our busy routines unaware of things around us.
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What would happen if the earth suddenly stopped its rotation?
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Well, I'm no scientist (some of you out there in cyberspace can tell us what would happen-- please feel free to post your knowledge with a comment), but while I can't tell you exactly what would happen I do think it would definitely get our attention real quick.
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Have you ever had one of those "earth stopping" experiences?
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For example---

• The hated "C" word used by the doctor tells you that the biopsy revealed that you have cancer with only a few months to live.
• Your spouse just announced they want a divorce.
• Your teenage daughter just told you she's pregnant.
• On payday you find a "pink slip" in your pay envelope.
• Your boss announces the business is down sizing.
• Your receive notice from the bank that you're overdrawn.
• The car has a major mechanical problem leaving you stranded on the side of the road.
• You get a phone call from a family member regarding the death of a parent.
• Your teenage child is arrested for drug possession.
• Your depressed with no visible hope that anything will change.
• Etc.

The list of those "earth stopping" experiences is endless. Your specific one may not have been listed above, but when it happened your whole world came to a sudden halt. What once had been taken for granted for so long was now gone. In those kind of experiences life has its way of getting in your face in a hurry.

What "earth stopping" experience has happened to you?

When your "earth stopping" experience happened, what did you do?

What gave you strength to continue?

To whom did you turn?

How important was your faith?

What have you learned since then?

For me, my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ stands as the foundation. As a Christian, there are no guarantees of a life without "earth stopping" experiences, but Jesus did say, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (John 16:33). On another occasion, Jesus made it clear that He would never leave us or forsake us. We are never alone, and when one of those "earth stopping" experiences has occurred I've learned that He walks with us through the experience-- in fact, He has often had to carry me.

Bucket List

I never saw the movie, but I have a bucket list (i.e.-- a list of things I would love to do before I kick the bucket.) At the present time my list is pretty short. You probably will think I'm strange, but at the top of my list in the number one position would be spending six months on the International Space Station soaking in the amazing view high above the earth. That would be so awesome. The number two item on my bucket list would keep my feet firmly planted on planet earth. I would love to take six months or longer in the Holy Land. I would love to go to the land of the Bible and study God's Word in the places where the events originally occurred. I would love to sit along the shore of the Sea of Galilee reading the Gospels. It would be awesome to walk the country side from Jericho to Jerusalem, and to walk the streets of Jerusalem. There are so many places spoken about in the Scriptures too numerous to list them all. I would enjoy traveling the path of the Apostle Paul's missionary journeys, see Egypt, and walk the streets of Baghdad, ect. Obviously six months would be too short to see it all. Not just the tourist sites, but spend time meeting the people and learning about the cultures. What's on your list?

Cool Video

This is a powerful video about our AWESOME GOD and HIS bountiful grace. Please take a few minutes to watch the entire video presentation. Reflect on HIS unconditional love.

Bops and Nanny by Aby

Today my granddaughter Aby came for a visit bearing a special drawing she had made. She had drawn a picture of her "Bops and Nanny" using a purple crayon. Notice it is an autograhped original (she is 3 years old). I added the typed information to a scanned copy of the original which hangs proudly in my office. Aby has a really big imagination. In her drawing of me she decided that I needed some hair -- which departed this life many years ago. Sherry and I (Nanny and Bops) have been truly blessed with two wonderful children and their spouses and four precious grandchildren. I have often boasted, "If I would have known how much fun grandkids were, I would have had them first." [Please, no comments about how that is impossible.] If your a grandparent you know hat I mean. In my Bible readings yesterday, I came across this verse in Proverbs 17:6a, "Children's children are a crown to the aged." The Bible calls grandchildren a crown to the aged. I like that. Not the "aged" part, but the ideal of grandchildren being a "crown." They truly are a blessing. The Lord willing --- I hope to see them grow up and become responsible adults like their parents. My prayer today for them is that the Lord would give them a heart that seeks after HIM, and that they would serve HIM all the days of their lives.

P.U.S.H.

A friend who works as an administrator in a local school district was sharing with me about a situation that recently occured. Some unknown students had committed a serious offense that required his swift and immediate attention. During the course of the investigation things had kind of stalled when one of the Police Officers encouraged him to "PUSH." My friend did not know what to think at first. When my friend looked puzzled by the Officer's comment, the Officer explained by saying, "Pray Until Something Happens." My friend began to pray as he continued to investigate the matter and within a short period of time the situation was resolved. The students responsible were identified and the case closed. What a simple concept. I wonder how less complicated my life would be if daily I practiced P.U.S.H. The Bible tells us to "pray about everthing," but too often I have the mistaken notion that the issues or problems that I'm struggling with are too small for God to be bothered with. So I continue struggling with the issues until I've exhausted all options, and then I pray. Can you relate? How much wiser it would be to trust the LORD with everything. I am learning that the attitude of self-sufficency is sin. We have believed the Devils lie -- "That the LORD helps those who help themselves." Lord, help me to P.U.S.H. daily in my journey allowing You the freedom to freely work in my life.

The Glory of God

When I was a kid I remember spending hours just laying on the ground gazing into the night's sky looking at the stars. I have not done that in a long time. I was about 42 years old before I every saw the Milky Way. I was with a group of men returning from a work trip from the Matamoros Children's home (http://www.matamoroschildrenshome.org/). We had stopped in an unlite roadside rest stop and were eating some ice cold watermelons from south Texas when my frined Jim said, "There's the Milky Way." We were stopped out in the middle of no where on a moonless night. When I looked up, I was amazed at the wonderful sight of something I had only read about. There above me was the Milky Way in all its splendor. What an absolutely wonderful sight to see. It was one of those special moments in life for me. I don't know about you but when I look into the sky I'm reminded of how awesome our God is. Psalm 19 declares that the heavens declare the glory of God.
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When you look into the skies do you hear the testimony of all of creation about the glory of our God?

Jesus can turn your E.F.I.L. around!!!

Jesus can turn your E.F.I.L. around!!!

Have you every felt like your life was a total mess, and that getting it in order was an impossible task? I have. But, I've great news. Jesus can indeed turn your L.I.F.E. around and shape it for His glory. The Bible makes it clear that Jesus is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us. Only, there is one small problem. ME!!! (If you will permit me to be plainly honest-- YOU!!!) While I believe He is more than able to bring order in the midst of my chaotic life because of His omnipotence, I often find myself interferring with His process that is at work within me. The bottom line is simple---lack of trust. The reason most of our lives could best be described as living on a roller coaster with all its ups and downs, twists and turns is because we really don't trust Him with our lives. We trust Him to save us, but when it comes to our daily lives, we pull back. After all, He might mess us up. Absurd thought, but true none the less. We might not verbalize it out of fear of being blasphemous, but our actions and attitudes expose the truth. I am learning that I must trust HIM with every area of my life. He is trustworthy, and His plan for my life and your life is good.

For me to live is ________________?

Today has been a challenging and convicting day. We were blessed today to have a guest speaker at our church from the organization -- Gospel for Asia. As a Christian in America, I am becoming more aware of how shallow and spoiled I've been in regards to daily being a faithful disciple of Christ. I have made the commitment to read through the Bible this year at least once, to read other Christian books on missions, discipleship, and spiritual growth, and to be more intentional about sharing the Gospel with others, etc. I've also been watching sermon videos available on the internet from respected Bible teachers. It has been a both challenging and convicting journey as the Holy Spirit illuminates areas of my life that need to be surrendered to Christ. In the Home Team group we visited tonight, we were challenged to fill in the blank of the following question with an answer that best reflects what is true about our Christian life today. "FOR ME TO LIVE IS ______________ ? [The question is taken from a statement recording by the Apostle Paul in his epistle to the Church at Philippi (1:21).] I wish I could tell you that I had a really profound spiritual answer, but to honest I didn't. The Apostle Paul faced a different cultural climate in his day. For him to boldly live for Christ daily meant suffering and persecution ultimately which lead to his execution for preaching the Gospel of Christ. Today the major threat I believe is prosperity. I know the Church thrives under persecution, but I am concerned whether or not the Church will survive prosperity. Why are we not seeing the power of God moving in our midst like He is other parts of our world? I believe it is related to the fact that we don't have a daily, moment by moment dependence on Him. We are self-sufficient, and while we give lip service to our need of God for the most part we've got things under control. It's not until something pulls the rug out from under us that we sense a need for God. I want Christ to be the sum total of my life. Like the Apostle Paul continues to say in chapter three of the same epistle, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death." I'm convinced that for me to honestly answer the question with "For me to live is Christ," will require genuine repentance and revival in my heart.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

This year has gone by so quickly. In a few hours it will be 2008. As I look forward to the coming new year, I am reminded that the slate for 2008 is clean. This could be the year that Jesus Christ returns to fulfill His promise. As I was studying chapter 3 of the Apostle Peter's second epistle this week, I was convicted about how little emphasis I have given to this wonderful truth. Don't misunderstand. I believe in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, but just like many believers today it is not a subject that I have given a great deal of thought about in 2007. I am ashamed of my neglect. As I studied this passage it became obvious to me that the reality of the Second Coming of Christ and the events that occur in conjunction with it ought to serve as a catalysis for holy and godly living. The Apostle Peter drives that truth home with a probing question. In light of the truth of the Second Coming and the cataclysmic judgment of the ungodly then "What kind of people ought you to be?" The Apostle goes further to declare that "You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming." As those words sturred within my heart this week, I was reminded that if I want my life in 2008 to be charactered as being a "holy and godly" life-- and I do-- then I must be intentional about the way I live daily. Or to use the words of the Apostle Peter in verse 14, "So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with him" (NIV). There is more that I could say about that verse, but for now I will close this post with this reminder. God has made it possible for every believer to live a "holy and godly" life through His divine power. In fact, notice what 2 Peter 1:3,4 declares -- "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires" (NIV). The decision is mine. God has made it possible through what He has already done. I must chose to believe God's Word and by faith live in such a way whereby I am cooperating with God's divine power already at work within me.