The Last Day of the Year!
The Sun is up, and the day has begun. It's here, the last day of the year, 2005. What will we do with it? How will it count? Actually, it will count just like any other day. However, there is this certain feeling of finality about it. If there's anything you really wanted to get done this year but haven't, well then I guess you had better hurry. The clock is ticking away fast. Soon 2005 will only be another year of history.

As we reflect on the year, are you thinking about opportunities missed? Are you remembering the year with celebration or regret? I hope you are finding things to celebrate, but if you are troubled with regrets, I want you to receive hope this morning. God is about to give you a something wonderful. In fact He is giving us all another brand new beginning! If you're struggling with regrets this morning, then I want to encourage you to look forward instead of backward. Remembers Paul's words in Philippians 3:12-14,

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Focus on these words, "forgetting what is behind." That's really good advice for folks who are stuggling with regrets. It's also good for people who are focused on their past successes. God wants to take us from glory to glory. Even if this past year has been wonderful, I want you to know that the best is yeat to come for you, if you put your faith and trust in God. Together, let's "press on toward the goal to win the prize."

I close this morning, wishing you a joyous celebration tonight and a Happy New Year filled with the assurance that all God's promises to you are Yes and Amen!

Redeeming the Time
It was long trip back from Ohio. We rolled in home at about 2:00 a.m. After unloading our stuff, I uploaded Thursday's article before laying down for some needed rest. Morning came entirely too soon. Although it might have been tempting to just stay home, responsibilities call, and the work must be done. There is so much to do, and so little time to have it all finished before the end of the year.

Do you remember when a year seemed like such a long time? My how fast it goes these days? At the beginning you would think, "Wow, this year I'm going to accomplish so much!" It would seem like you certainly have enough time to do it all, but then all of the sudden here you are. It's the end of the year, and there is still so much to be done. Why do let things go so long?

Paul wrote the church at Epehesus in Ephesians 5:16:

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Too often we let things pile up and find ouselves in impossible situations. If only we had redeemed the time and made the most of the opportunities, but we didn't. As I look at this new year, I hope to take advantage of all the opportunities God is giving us to make a difference for His Kingdom. As I look at the world around us, I concur with Paul, "the days are evil." We have so very little time, and there is so much to do for Christ. Let's just do it! Have a blessed day!

Who can find a virtuous woman? Her price is far above rubies.
My Mother, Mary Hocker

Jacob’s Well Was There

This morning I am writing from my motel room in Eaton, Ohio. It is about 6:00 a.m. and the motel doesn’t have an internet connection, so I’ll post this article later today or in Friday morning before work. Later this morning we’ll be gathering at Dad’s church in Camden for fun and fellowship. Then this afternoon we will have our Hocker Family Christmas Celebration. All of my brothers made it in last night. Three of us and our families are staying here at the Econo Lodge.

Our family has grown so much. Now six of Mom and Dad’s grandchildren are married. If everyone made it there would be thirty eight of us. Since we are spread out from Ohio south to Georgia, east to Virginia, and all the way to Africa when you consider Ryan and Emily, there is a lot of travel involved when our family gets together. Between scheduling and traveling the likelihood of getting everyone coming it is less likely each year.

My thoughts this morning have brought me to the travels of Jesus. In the fourth chapter of John we find Him traveling through Samaria.

He had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. John 4:4-6 NLT

There is so much in this passage, but I want focus on one thought, “Jacob’s well was there.” Even though Jacob himself had been gone for generations, his presence was still felt. Jacob had lived his life in such a way that he left a legacy that continued to be felt long after his time had passed.

As I walked through the church in Camden last night, I had strong sense of Mother’s legacy. It wasn’t just the little memorial on the wall in the hallway either. I felt as though she could come walking around the corner just any moment, even though this January it will be three years. You see, like Jacob, my mother dug a well. She didn’t idle her time away while she was here. She invested herself and her energy in others, and in the life of her church.

Now when Mother was here, her presence could be felt. She really made things happen. She always took care of the when, the where, the what, and the how. You never had to worry about the details. Perhaps she worked too hard and worried too much, but that was Mother. The truth is that I really, really, REALLY, miss her this morning more than I could possibly communicate in space of this message, but I am glad for that feeling. I am glad that her life was meaningful enough to make such a profound difference. I am glad she dug such a deep well in our hearts, that her presence can still be felt. Even more, I am so thankful for the legacy of faith that she left in our family.

The most exciting thing about the well that Jacob dug was that it became a springboard for revival. When the Samaritan woman went back to town she went with more than just water from the old well. There she encountered the Living Water! After she offered to draw water for Jesus, He offered her something of much greater value!

Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.”

“But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? And besides, do you think you’re greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?”

Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.”

“Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.” John 4:10-15 NLT

Today, as we celebrate Christmas with Dad and my brothers and our families, we will be doing so because Mother dug a well. As Jacob’s well was a gathering point for the families of this Samaritan village, Mother’s well is a gathering point for our family and those whose life she touched through her ministry. It is a well of love and faithfulness that continues to refresh us as a family.

It is my hope today, that I may dig a well and leave a legacy that will be a blessing to my family. Have a blessed day!

Rev. Richard Hocker: My Grandpa

Christmas with Grandma and Grandpa Hocker

I remember all the magic and wonder of Christmas with Grandpa and Grandma Hocker. It was wonderful. We would always travel to Kentucky sometime during the holidays to celebrate with them. There would be Grandma's famous Applesauce Stack Cake and her cookies. I loved sleeping in the front room on the feather ticking. You could nearly disappear in that feather ticking because it was so soft. I would wake in the morning to the wonderful aromas of baking biscuits and frying bacon. Grandma could have gone into business with her biscuits and gravy. If she had then probably we would have never heard of Cracker Barrel. Instead, all up and down the interstate in the south you would see signs advertising, "Tilda's Diner - The best homemade cooking you ever tasted. Come on in and just eat as long as you see anything."

Anyway, while Grandma was busy in the kitchen, Grandpa Hocker busied himself entertaining the grandkids. Hey, we didn't need Santa, nor elves, nor Rudolph to have a great Christmas. Grandma Hocker was everything Mrs. Santa ever aspired to be, and the Jolliest elves of all could have taken lessons from Grandpa, including Santa himself. Grandpa enjoyed pulling this Jack and Jill routine on us.

He would do his trick with a little rhyme:

Two little birds sitting on a limb,
One named jack and one named Jim.
Fly away Jack! Flay away Jill!
Come back Jack Come back Jill.

Then he also enjoyed doing a rubber band trick, and a stunt called "magic writing." It was such great fun!

He had some of the neatest toys! There was this wooden toy that was simply three long pegs with various size wooden squares on them. There was a special way to organize the wooden squares on the pegs. It was a brain teaser.. Can't you tell by the twinkle in his eyes that he just loved to play, and he did. He played with his grandchildren, and we will never forget, how special he always made us feel, whether he was making Jack and Jill (little piece of white paper stuck to the finger nails of his index fingers) fly away, or making rubber bands leap form his first two fingers to his pinky and ring finger.

Now he could be serious, too, and he was serious about prayer. We would always be called to get on our knees for prayer in the living room before eating at his table in the kitchen. Wow, did he ever pray!

This Christmas in an effort to share a little of Grandpa Hocker with the rest of my family, I have put together birthday sets of coins. You see Grandpa was also a coin collector of sorts. He never spent much money on collecting, probably because he didn't have much money to spend on it. To "coin" a phrase, "He was just a country preacher." He only collected what he could find in circulation, mostly pennies and nickels, and a few dimes. Coins of larger denominations were too valuable back then to just leave them lying around.

Well, I have most of Grandpa's old coins and through the years have added a few. This year, with Dad's permission of course, I have used some of those coins to build their birthday sets. If they were born before Grandpa crossed "The Lonely River," then the pennies and nickels at least came from Grandpa's collection. I added the others to complete their sets, in loving memory of Christmas with the "Little Country Preacher," and his wife of a lifetime, Rev. Richard Hocker and his wife, Tilda - to us Grandpa and Grandma Hocker.

This morning I am thanking God for a heritage of faith. I don't know how far back your heritage of faith extends. Perhaps you may be the first person in your family to receive Christ as Lord and Savior and to begin this walk of faith,. If so, then I want to encourage you to begin a heritage of faith with your family. Joshua encouraged the children of Israel in Deuteronomy 6:4-7,

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Furthermore, Solomon's wrote these words of wisdom in Proverbs 17:6,

Children's children are a crown to the aged,
and parents are the pride of their children.

Real success in discipleship comes when your disciple disciples someone else. When our children are successful parents, then our heads are crowned with glory. When our spiritual children lead others to Christ, then we can rejoice that discipleship has made it's circle.

May you have a blessed day, from Granpa and I. Praise the Lord.

Power of the Spirit
Since I was off yesterday, I able to do some things for which I usually don't seem to have enough time. Monnie went down to the barn with me to tend the horses, and Odell came down in his pickup. As we were putting the horses into the barn, Invicto, a Pacifino, was acting a little unruly. He was either lagging and nearly making me pull him or trying to drag me a long. This behavior was entirely unacceptable, so while Monnie fed the others and Odell brought the tractor around to get hay, instead of putting Invicto into his stall, I lead him into the training pen, where we had a little heart to heart. Within just a few minutes he submitted and a much better behaved Pacifino went to his stall for some grain. Often, we're in such a hurry to finish the morning feeding, that stubborness like this just gets ignored. Good discipline takes time, but it is so very important.

After feeding Monnie wanted us to spend some time with her baby horse, Dixie. She put a halter on her, which for the first time really fit. Then Monnie lead her mother, Jane, from the stall while I lead Dixie and Odell gave her some encouragement from behind. Thus we managed to move bothe mother and baby into the training pen. Although it was much more time consuming than the earlier session with Invicto, eventually we were leading little Dixie with halter and lead roped around the pasture.

Somehow we even found time to put both Flame, our Stallion, and my horse, Beauty, into the training pen for some encouragement in submission and obedience. It was a good morning.

The next item on the day's agenda was to gather supplies and tools to build a dog shelter. I had enough metal roofing left from the house. I really thought it would be a short and simple job, and that I would have a little time left over to do another small plumbing project too. Well, everthing didn't work out exactly as I had planned. I certainly didn't plan on mashing my thumb with a hammer! Well, if all goes well and my thumb doesn't throb too much today, I'll finish this dog project today.

There is definitely a lesson here, if I can tie it all together. Both the horse and and the hammer represent power. Both can be dangerous. In fact, we have a warning sign posted on our barn, that reminds folks that according to state law, they ride at their own risk. Equestrian activities can cause bodily harm or even death. Of course, my little mishap with the hammer is an obvious reminder of the danger present if you fail to control it properly.

There are other powers and passions in our lives that need to be controlled if we are to live godly lives. Paul writes about this struggle in Ephesians 6:12,

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

We don't have to alow ourselves to be controlled by these powers. We learn here that we can prepare ourselves. The next verse says,

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

God has provided all we need. We don't have to be controlled by powers of darkness. He has given us the Holy Spirit to enable us to even control our own human spirit and it's passions.
As Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:16-18,

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

There are destructive powers in the world, but we can be allow the Holy Spirit to lead us, and bring everthing under submission to His awesome power. Have a blessed day.

Hubert, our Adult Bible Teacher at CFA
From a photo taken on our trip to Atlanta

Christmas Reflection
We had a wonderful Christmas Day! Of course, as usual I spent it with a little sleep deprivation. There is always something to keep us up late the night before Christmas. We opened gifts at home with our children before getting ready for church.

Since we were having Christmas Service at 11:00 a.m. and missing our regular Sunday School, Hubert did a Power Point Sunday School Lesson. His presentation was GREAT! Using some beautiful pictures that included scenes from Jerusalem, he focused on God's purpose, sharing Scripture from Genesis through Revelation. This morning, I want to take a moment to express our gratitude to him, not only for this lesson, but for work he does all year long, every year, to teach us. What we see and hear, on Sunday morning or Wednesday night, is just a fraction of the time and energy he invests in us each year.

After the Lesson we sang some Christmas hymns, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, and O Come All Ye Faithful. The people sang heartily which compensated greatly for what was lacking at the piano. ( I played the piano. Not only had I not played for some time, it had been even longer since I had played these Christmas hymns.) We had about thirty-five for our Christmas Day Service and what a blessing they were!

During the Christmas message I shared a Christmas story from Joe L. Wheeler's book, Christmas in My Heart: A Treasury of Timeless Christmas Stories. The story was entitled, And the Two Were Made One, by Dennis Eberhart. In the story, a grandfather is remembering a Christmas when he was only just out of high school and recounting it to his grandchildren to keep them out the way while grandmother is baking cookies. I hope you will read the story if you missed it on Sunday. The story teaches that if we care enough we can take something ugly and worthless and make it beautiful and valuable. We must be willing to do whaterever it takes. That's what God has done for us. We were spiritually ugly and worthless, but God loved us enough that he gave His son for us, as Paul records in Romans 8:32,

He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

He gave the greatest gift of all, the Savior, Christ the Lord. God gave whatever it took to save us. He doesn't give sparingly, but sacrificially. What's more is that He just keeps on giving! Along with Christ, He graciously gives us all that we need for life and godliness. Have a great day!

Christmas Eve

This morning I've written a short parody on that beloved old Christams poem, 'Twas the Night before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore. I don't know how Christmas Eve is for you and your family, but maybe this will give you a little insight into ours. We still have a lot to get done before tomorrow morning, especially since we're not only preparing for our celebration at home, but also for a celebration at church. It is such a busy time, but we don't want to get so busy with all the celebration that we forget why we are celebrating. It certainly should be all about worshipping Christ the Lord.

The Night before Christmas
A Parody

It's the night before Christmas, here at the Hocker's
Some folks might think we're "off our rockers."
There's still lots of stirring in our two-story house
to wrap the last presents quiet as a mouse.
Our children have showered and gone to bed.
They are ready for church like mama said.
We don't want to waken those who are asleep,
but, oh how these doors and stairs do creak.
Somehow before the morning light
the loaded tree will be quite a sight.
The stockings hung on the mantle to fill,
will be stuffed to give the kids a thrill.
But this Christmas Eve has some added bliss,
Tomorrow is Sunday on top of all this.
Besides all the regular things we do,
I'm hoping that tomorrow, we'll get to see you.
Along with all the presents and things,
we're preparing our hearts to worship the King.
This Christmas Sunday we'll make it clear
that it's not just about some holiday cheer.
We're celebrating the Saviour's birth,
A sacred Holy day when God came to earth.

There is an abundance of creative imagination and wonderful fantasy that surrounds our celebration of Christmas. Although we may enjoy the fantasy and the wonder of youthful imagination, we celebrate the reality and truth of the birth of Jesus Christ and worship Him, our Savior and Lord. In the words of Isaiah 9:6,

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

May Christ Jesus be the focus of all our Christmas celebrations. Merry Christmas!

The Gift of Work
Do you sometimes find it hard to go to sleep at night because you are so excited about getting up and going to work in the morning? Do you ever jump out of bed before the alarm goes off in the morning and say, "Oh boy, I get to go to work today!" Unfortunately, we are more likely to groan and grimace, with comments like, "Is it morning already?" or with resignation, "Well, I guess I've got to go to work again this morning." Since we almost never open the furniture store on Thursdays, yesterday felt a little strange. It was the last Thursday before Christmas, and we serve the people. One man was able to get a new cheval mirror for his wife yesterday. A lady who has known my wife and I since before we were married (and still calls me, "Danny") was able to buy herself a new flat screen LCD high definition TV. One family even bought an entire bedroom suite, that we will deliver to them this afternoon. That along with lots of paper work made for a full day. As an added bonus, Jeffrey went to work with me yesterday morning so his mother could finish up shopping.

This morning I want to try to look at work from a different perspective. Lot's of people are off from work for the holidays, and we are grateful for some time off for relaxation and refreshing. There are some who are off who wish they could be working. Since we also finance our own accounts, we soon learn when folks are out of work because of lay-offs. It is certainly difficult to be out of work during the Christmas season. Therefore, those of us who have work need to be thankful.

I am remembering Harold Ghearing, a man who attended the Welston Church of God in Welston, Ohio. Harold was retired and no longer had to get up and go to work in the mornings, but he enjoyed working so much. He started a large garden and raised tomatoes and vegetables, giving most of them away. After suffering a heart attack, he couldn't do as much, but he began "tinkering" at the church. Anything that was broke or just loose, he woud fix it or tighten it. Sometimes, there were just things that needed some regular maintenance. What a blessing he was.

If you think about it, whatever we give involves work. When we give gifts we are really giving our work. Whenever we give the gift of service or buy a gift with money we have earned, it all involves work. What we are giving is a little of ourself, a little of our time and energy, just a little of your life. We are giving the gift of work.

Solomon had this to say about how we should regard work, in Ecclesiastes 9:10,

Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

This morning while we are finishing our Christmas shopping, I want to express my gratitude for the gift of work. I am thankful to God for the strength and health to work, and I am thankful for our family business (pictured above) which has provided a place for me to work for more than 2o consequetive years! The privilege we have to work enables us to share that gift with others. I am thankful that it gives me the privilege to give at church and to provide for my family. We are so blessed! This is a gift that just keeps on giving. You've heard it said before, "Give a man a fish and you feed him a meal, but teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."

As I apply the word for this morning, I hope that my attitude reflects gratefulness for the gift of work. I also hope that having Jeffrey along was good for him and that he will learn to appreciate this precious gift. Maybe I can approach work with a little more enthusiasm and little more grattitude. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of work.

The Gift of Fellowship
Last night our mid-week service was a liitle down in attendance, but then it was the last Wednesday before Christmas. Some folks were out of town, and then we were short an entire half dozen souls simply because all of Alfred's and Alicia's kids were away from home. My wife and I know from expereince that it can get pretty quiet around the house in a hurry when you go from six to zero, but that's not always a bad thing.

For some time now Jeffrey has been after me to take the family to Steak and Shake after church on Wednesday. So, last night I decided honor his request. As an added bonus, Alfred and Alicia went with us, and we had some wonderful fellowship with them, even if was past mine and Alfred's bedtime before we finishied. One thing I'm sure of is that Crystal and Alicia could have kept their fellowship up right on past midnight! They were really on a roll. Seriously, it was great, and we all enjoyed the evening.

Getting together with family and friends is something we always enjoy not only during the holidays but all year long. It was also something the early church practiced. Luke records it this way in Acts 2:42,

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.

The word fellowship is from the greek, koinonia, which means to share in common. My wife and I have heritage of fellowship on both sides of our family. Her grandfather, Reno, loved to have people to his home on Sundays for food and fellowship. Odell and Selva have certainly kept that kind of fellowship alive. They most always have quite a following for Sunday lunch wherever they go. Some will say, "sure, they're just after the free lunch!" Somehow I believe it's more than that. You see, it's the same when we just eat beans and cornbread at the house. This gift of fellowship is such a blessing. Whether, I'm just being Dad and having my family out for dinner or over to the house, or having the blessing of folks like Alfred and Alicia along for fellowship after church, it's all about the precious gift of fellowship.

God created us for fellowship. First he created us for fellowship with Him. Secondly he created us for fellowship with one another. In fact, when we have fellowship together, we also have fellowship with Him because He is there with us. That what He said in Matthew 18:20,

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Even more, As Jesus was talking about our relationship with one another in Mathhew 25:40 , He said that the way we treat others is how we treat Him.

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

During this Christmas season I have already enjoyed some wonderful fellowship with family and friends, and our church family. I will have several more special gatherings before the Holiday season is over. The good news is that it doesn't end with the new year. Those of us who know the Christ of Christmas look forward to not only a new year, but also an eternity filled with the gift of fellowship. It's only just begun!

Remembering Angels

My mother had an awesome collection of angel figurines and angel pictures, and plaques. One of my favorites was an old print, pictured above, that I also remember seeing at my great grandmother's home in Kentucky. It is approaching three years now since Mom passsed away, and most of the time I do pretty good at handling the grief. I guess holidays are a little harder for all of us, when we are missing someone we love.

Well, last night I had the privilege of spending most of my evening after work with my wife. We had some serious shopping to do since Christmas is fast approching. Just before the shops began closing we stopped at a nice restaurant and ate supper together, just the two of us. Now, that was real treat! Then after supper we checked out the Cracker Barrel gift shop for a few other items on our list. That's when it happened. It caught me by surprise. I turned down a small aisle and found a beautiful ceramic angel. It was then that from somewhere deep inside there came a rush of feelings that I hadn't felt for some time now. My eyes misted over with tears. I was missing mother. I quickly walked on around the corner of the display thinking I would regain my composure only face numerous ceramic angels on the other side. There was no escaping the angels nor my rush of emotion. It's just that I still really miss my mother, and the angels reminded me of her.

At this time of year we are often remembering angels especially those that visited the shepherds in Luke 2:8-11

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."

It is ineteresting that the word, angel, means messenger. To the shepherds on that Judean hillside God sent His messengers. That awesome moment was full of emotion. In fact it says here that they were terrified. Still God's message to them was one of hope and joy. "Don't be afraid. I bring you good news."

This morning I am thankful for mother. Not only did she collect angels, but she also was a heavenly messenger herself. She loved God's word, and spent every morning reading the Bible. She loved to teach. I count myself blessed this morning as I am remembering angels.

It is my hope that if you are feeling overwhelmed with emotion this Christmas, or if you are struggling with grief, that you will hear the message of hope that Chritmas brings. May God fill you with hope and great joy and you hear the message of the angels, "Joy to the world, the Lord is come!"

My wife's Parents, Odell and Selva

The Gift of Gratitude

Have you been looking for that perfect gift? Have you found it yet, or is it an illusive thing, like a quest for the Holy Grail? Maybe you found some, "Well-I-guesss-this-will-be-alright" gifts. You're running out of time! Christmas is now just 5 days away! Want to make that gift really matter? Would you like to add some impact? You can do it! In fact you can even add impact to a really great gift. You can make it sizzle! Best of all, it's so simple. Just give the gift of gratitude! Add impact. Take time to write a special heartfelt note of thanks to give with your gift. Long after the gift is forgotten the note and your words will be treasured!

I know there are some people who just have the gift of giving. It is one of those special gifts of the Spirit, but it is also one that can be and should be cultivated. Through the years my wife's parents, pictured above, have demonstrated this gift. On our recent bus trip, her dad wanted to be sure everyone would be able to go shopping while we were in Atlanta, so he passed out 24 Christmas cards, each containing shopping money! However, what really made his gifts sizzle were the personal notes he wrote inside each card! Long after the money is spent, those words will still be treasured in our hearts. This must be why the Apostle Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica in 1 Thessaloinians 5:18,

In every thing give thanks: for this is
the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

This gift of gratitude just keeps on giving. In fact, it is this gift that opens the holiday season at Thanksgiving and continues as we express our thanks to all those generous and thougthtful people who have made our Christmas special.

I want to apply this lesson in my life, by expressing my thanks to God for His many blessings. Specifically I want to thank Him for Odell and Selva, and I want to thank them for giving so much. I want them know that it is my desire to cultivate that same spirit of giving which they have modeled through the years. I hope to add impact to giving by expressing gratefulness, to the many people who have blessed our lives. Even more I hope to multiply the gift of gratitude by also just encouraging you to just try it. Give thanks this Christmas. Give the gift of gratitude.

Advent: A Time of Preparation

Now there is less than a week until Christmas! The Christmas Rush has now become frantic. There is so much time and so little do. Wait a minute; turn that around. There is so LITTLE TIME and SO MUCH to do! Final preparations are underway for our special day of celebration! Much has already been accomplished, but there are special folks on your Chirstmas list that you just haven't found the right gift for yet! Still, there is the Christmas dinner to prepare, and making sure you have film for your camera or batteries charged and ready to go. Travel plans are being finalized for those who will be visiting family out of town. There is joyous anticipation! There are some gifts still to be wrapped, and there is the concern if a few of them will arrive in time or not. We actually are waiting on some to arrive that we ordered online!

There certainly were some serious preparations for the first Christmas too. God stirred up the whole world in preparation for Jesus to be born in Bethlehem. Luke 2:1-5 records it like this:

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

For Joseph and Mary, getting ready was quite an ordeal, too. One important consideration was that they had a long and difficult journey to make. They couldn't call a tour bus company like the one pictured above. Thursday morning this tour bus was waiting for us to travel to Atlanta. Our trip was a pleasant one, in first class comfort. The seventy mile trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem had no such convenience, none of the comforts of present day travel. Their trip was one of daily exposure to the elements, as they trudged through some very difficult terrain.

As we make our own journey through the difficulties of this world, we are likewise preparing for the coming of Jesus Christ. He is coming again, and we are living in an extended time of preparation. We are preparing our hearts and souls for His second advent! That's right. Jesus is coming again. This morning, as we make final preparation for Christmas, let's pause to prepare our hearts for His presence and keep our souls ready for the return of our soon-coming King! Have a blessed day!

The Gift of Availability

One of those basic human needs is the need to be needed, and last night I experienced one of those moments with my daughter pictured at the left. The car she was driving overheated, and she pulled into a BP station. While waiting on the engine to cool, she called Dad. Of course, I jumped in the Trooper and went to her rescue. Never mind that I am not a mechanic. In fact, my automotive expertise and record would be more suited for a hall of shame than for the hall of fame. Still, it's Dad to the rescue!

The wonderful thing is that I had the privilege of spending time with my daughter. Certainly there were all kinds of other things I could have been doing. Unfortunately, too often our children think of us as too busy for them, especially as they get older. I wonder where they think they are on our list of priorities. I'm sure they believe our job is pretty high on the list, and they often feel like it is more important to us than them. What about other things? Do we make them feel like they are second place to our hobbies, sports, or entertainment, the computer or the TV? How often do they hear those words, "Not now, honey, Daddy's busy," or "Could we do that later, I tied up right now." Do we make them feel like an inconvenience instead of a treasure?

Sure my evening didn't turn out like I had planned. It turned out better than I had planned. So, this morning I want to thank God for his goodness and mercy. What looked like just an overheated car problem turned out to be an opportunity to be available to my daughter. Aren't you glad that our Heavenly Father is available when we need him. He's never out of town, never too busy, never distracted by cyberspace, and never back logged on email. He is available to us 24/7. There is an old song, I used to sing entitled, "Whenever I need Jesus, He's there."

The Psalmist puts it this way in Psalm 46:1,

God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble. NLT

Whenever we are available to help, we model to our children what God, our Heavenly Father, is like. There is no substitute for being there! This Christmas in the midst of all the hustle to buy gifts and prepare for celebrations, let's remember to give the gift of availability.

Today, whatever your need is, I am convinced that God is both able and available to help you. In fact, maybe the need you have is there right now just because you and your Heavenly Father need to spend some time together. Have a blessed day!

It's all about Family!

Hubert and Janet wanted to do something special for Christmas this year. They put together a family trip that we are sure to remember for quite a long time. Thursday morning we all met at their house for breakfast. Then we boarded a chartered tour bus bound for Atlanta and the brand new Aquarium there. Traveling together in the big bus was one best parts of the trip. We sang and read and shared some wonderfule time together as a family.

Another interesting thing as that our bus driver, Tom, (pictured above) became part of our family yesterday, even if it was just for a short time. He learned a few thing about us, and we were privileged to learn some of his story. Tom's mother had died when he was just six years old and his grandmother raised him. If remember right, it was and uncle that became "the man in his life." This man was the father figure who tried to steer Tom in the right direction. As a child he attended church regularly. They went all day on Sundays and to Wednesday prayer meetings too! However, when Tom became a man, he quit attending regularly. He became very involved in making a living and providing for his family. Finally after retiring, he and his wife re-committed themselves to regular church attendane, but what is even more important is that Tom renewed his relationship with Christ. The heart attack, from which he recovered, added to a clear understanding that God has something special for him. He has communicated to his kids a regret that he did not keep them in church through the years. He quit smoking and drinking, even though he was never a drunk only a social drinker. He has a strong desire to see his church grow and has invested in its future. Also he has a passion to help the less fortunate. He has seen so very many homeless through his experience driving through the big cities.

Jeffrey was with me when Tom shared with us, and as we got off the bus at the end of the day, he stopped and hugged Tom. In the house last night, my eight-year-old son, Jeffrey said to me, "Daddy I hugged him because Tom is our brother in Christ." Wow, it happened, didn't it! We left Thursday morning with a hired bus-driver, but our brother, Tom, drove us home.

This year you will probably get together with family during the holidays. In fact that's how Christmas really began. These familiar words from Luke 2:4 remind us of the centrality of faimily:

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee
to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged
to the house and line of David.

The reason Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem was because of family. That's where his family was from! While many of us will similarly find ourselves traveling to see family during the Christmas season, others will find that they are part of a larger family than they ever could have imagined. Keep your eyes and hearts open. Who knows; you may find the joy of family too!

As Paul wrote to the people at Ephesus in Ephesians 2:19:

So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners.
You are citizens along with all of God's holy people.
You are members of God's family.

This Christmas let's celebrate belonging to His family. Have a blessed day.

The Most Important Decision of All

Last night we were at Trevitt Hall for our annual Christmas Banquet! When you plan such an event, there are so many decisions to be made! Thankfully, this year I didn't have to make many of them. In fact, I just made one really important decision and that was to trust Sharon and Janet to take care of it, and they did. We had a wonderful night! However, the most important decision of all wasn't made until after our benediction was prayed, during the fellowship afterward. Brittany told her parents that she wanted to be saved! They told Janet, and Janet brought Brittany to me. The most important decision of all was made last night when Brittany decided to receive Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. What a joy it was to pray with her! We knelt at a folding chair on the concret floor of Trevitt Hall, and right there, encountered the awesome presence of Jesus Christ. Could there be a more appropriate way to celebrate the Savior's birth? I think not. As I looked into Brittany's face after prayer, there were tears running down her cheeks. I asked, "Brittany, are you alright?" When she said, "yes," I asked, "then, why the tears?" She responded, "I'm just so happy!"

The truth is that Brittany has been coming to this decision for several days and weeks. she has witnessed her dad, Alfred, in his renewed relationship with Christ. In fact, Brittany is pictured below in the baptismal photo watching her dad's baptism. She is the last little girl on the right in front of the baptistry. When genuine faith is lived at home, it has an impact on the lives of others. It is the powerful example of real faith in Christ demonstrated daily that is the most effective gospel of all.

This makes two decisions for Chirst this week! The other one was Troy who received Christ his Lord, on Sunday at the baptismal service, which included his own baptism. That is, however, another story.

In Luke 15:7, Jesus closes the parable of the lost sheep with these words,

I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in
heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine
righteous persons who do not need to repent.

This week all of heaven has celebrated with us as Troy and Brittany have come to Christ. As we continue to celebrate the Christmas season, let's remember that this is why Jesus came. Again, the words of angel's message to Joseph in Matthewy 1:21 were:

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the
name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.

Then in Luke 2:11 the message of the angels to the shepherds was:

Today in the town of David a Savior has been
born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

How appropriate that in our celebration of the Savior's birth that a child should make the most important decision of all, saying, "I want to be saved." Hey, join the celebration, and have a very blessed day!

Joseph's Decision
Joseph and Mary had been engaged long enough for their friends and neighbors to now about it, but now this! He had just found out that Mary was pregnant! Now, I can imagine the things that could have gone through his mind.
"I really thought Mary was different. It just doesn't make sense! What is she, some kind of religious nut, claiming the child is from the Holy Ghost? Does she think I don't know how someone gets pregnant?"
Well, that's the way I imagine it. Joseph finally makes a decision. The marriage is off! He will just cancel it all, quietly to minimize the public disgrace and to insure that Mary won't be stoned. Just as Joseph gets it all figured out, he has an angelic visit in Matthew 1:20-21:

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

This word from God changed everything. It cleared Mary. Folks could believe whatever they wanted to believe. Joseph knew that she was a choice bride! He would Mary her and help her to raise the Saviour, Jesus!

Hey, as you look for direction in your life, be sure that after you have reasoned everything out, you don't forget to listen to God. Somehow and somewhere He is speaking to you if only you will listen. Have a blessed day!

Decisions Decisions
Have you ever come to a fork in the road where you wher forced to make a decision? Which way do you go? What is the basis of your decision? The photograph above reminds me of the old poem by Robert Frost.

Two roads diverged in a wood and I...
I took the one less traveled by,
and that has made all the difference.

If you come to a fork in the road, how do you decide which way to go? Would you choose the most popular direction? It is clear that the more traveled road would have been the more popular direction. The less traveled path might be more difficult to travel. Who really knows. It is however, certain that your decision will make all the difference. It may affect where you come out of the woods, when you come out, and possibly if you come out at all.

Some of the decisions we face may have tremedous consequences. In 2 Kings 18, the people of Judah were faced with a decision by the King of Assyria:

"Don't listen to Hezekiah! These are the terms the king of
Assyria is offering: Make peace with me--open the gates
and come out. Then I will allow each of you to continue eating
from your own garden and drinking from your own well.
Then I will arrange to take you to another land like this one--
a country with bountiful harvests of grain and wine,
bread and vineyards, olive trees and honey--
a land of plenty. Choose life instead of death!
"Don't listen to Hezekiah when he tries to mislead you
by saying, `The LORD will rescue us!' NLT

Their decision could mean life or death! The Assyrian King is telling them to just give in to his demands and he will let them live the good life. I imagine some might have thought, "How could that be bad?" All it will cost us is our freedom! Unfortunately, many decisions we face are just not all that simple. Choosing life instead of death sounds great, and could be wonderful except for the problem of no longer being able to live in freedom. The book of Proverbs warns about this kind of decetption in Proverbs 14:12:

There is a way that seems right to a man,
but in the end it leads to death. NIV

How do we make the right decision? Notice the King Hezekiah told the people not to respond to the Assyrian king's messenger, but he sought godly counsel from the prophet Isaiah, and did not answer the King of Assyria until he heard from the Lord. Today, if you are facing an important decision and need direction from God, don't make your decision hastily, but seek the Lord. He has some clear direction for your life, that will not only give you abundant life but real freedom too! Have a blessed day!

Baptismal Service!
Last Wednesday Alfred asked about being baptized. I responded that I wasn't sure we could fit it in until after the New year. Then, as you can see from the picture above I baptized Alfred yesterday along with Brandi and Troy at a special baptismal service at 3:00 p.m. The water was cold but our hearts were warmed by God's special presence as we celebrated their new life in Christ. Of special note is the privelege I had of leading Troy to Christ at the Baptismal service.

Your Expectation will not be cut off!

Wow, what a Sunday! Praise and Worship was really charged, and there was such a wonderful awareness of God's presence. The word for Sunday was from Isaiah 7:14, a prophecy about Jesus: "
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

This is of course a verse we often hear around Christmas, and simply stated tells us that the sign God gave was a miraculous pregancy, that result in the birth of a son named Immanuel.

The application of this word from Isaiah is one of hope. Just as God gave this special word then, He often gives you and I word of hope. As Mary was with child we can be filled with expectation in the hope of what God has promised and know that God is faithful. He will bring all his promises to pass. Perhaps you have received a special promise from God and it seems that you have waited so very long to realize it's fulfillment. I want you to be encouraged today, that God will surely fulfill everyword and every detail of His promises to you. Your expectation will not be cut off! Have a blessed day.

Sacrifice of Love

One of the themes that ran through the movie last night was that of personal sacrifice for others. Jesus spoke of this kind of character in John 15:12-13. He said,

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Peter, Susan, Emund, and Lucy had been sent to the professor's house to protect them from the war that threatened their lives back home. As parents our hearts were torn as we thoroughly understood the anguish of that moment of seperation. Already suffering seperation from their father, their mother had chosen what was best for the safety of her children, although it meant she too would be seperated from them for the duration of the war. It reminds of so many families today who will be seperated because of the war in Iraq. Bravely they press on making tremendous sacrifices.

The eldest, Peter, now feels the responsibility of protecting his brother and sisters. As his character develops he overcomes his own fear and rises heroically to the challenge. Even Edmund, who selfishness puts everone in danger at the beginnings, comes rushing to the rescue without regard for his own safety, as the story nears it climax.

Of course the most powerfuly illustration is Asland, offering himself without struggle to pay the penalty for Edmund's treachery. It is this moment that teaches us such profound truth.

Jesus Christ, who is called "the Lion of the tribe of Judah" in Revelation 5:5, laid down his life to pay for the sins of the entire world. Jesus said in John 10:17-18

The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.

This morning I give thanks to God for His great love revealed in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. There on the cross he paid the awful price for my sin. He died so that we might live. This morning, I want you to know that you don't have to continue living under the burden of past sin and failure. The price has been paid! You can be free! Have a blessed day!

(Image from www.canmag.com)

The Chronicles of Narnia

Tonight the whole family went to see the new Disney movie based on C.S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Wow! What a tremendous presentation of this classic story! State of the art graphics combine with an equally imaginative story to produce one of the best films I have seen in a long time. Not only does this wonderful adventure teach some vital lessons about character, it also provides a wonderful opportuity to teach some deep theological truth including substitutionary atonement.

Concerning character, we learn about loyalty both by Edmund's negative example and through positve examples of some other characters. We see courage exemplified as these young people rise to the tremendous challenges of their task and overcome their fears. We witness them as they replace fear with faith. Because they are unlikely heroes we are likewise encouraged to believe that we may also do great things for God if we only trust Him.

I can heartily recommend this film for you and your family. As you allow it to be a catalyst for teaching biblical truth to your children, it can be a sprinboard to witness to your friends and associates. Don't miss seeing this wonderful work. Hey, and while you're at it read the book. The film is great but don't miss any of the Narnia series.

(Image from www.canmag.com)

Driving Miss Daisy?

My son has exams this morning, and he dropped his wife off here on the way in. Since they are expecting my first granddaughter, Daisy, one of us will get to take Jessica to work this morning. Then, of course, Miss Daisy will be along for the ride.

As an added blessing this morning, Jessica brought pictures and video of Baby Daisy from her visit to the midwife yesterday. The pictures are 3-D! It is just overwhelming to see Daisy's sweet little face and her little turned up nose, but when she opened her little mouth I just went all to mush. Hey, I'm a grandfather! Well, I'm not the only one going crazy over the new baby. It's really an effort to write this morning since my wife and daughter-in-law are playing the video, and I keep turning around to see it.

Not only am I overwhelmed with the blessing but also with the responsibility God has given to us. Deuteronomy 4:9 says,
Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.

I am remembering Josh McDowell's words in a recent seminar I attended, as he called this generation, "the last Christian generation." If that is true, then the failure is mine. I so want to be faithful in passing on Christian truth and values to my children and to my children's children. I am proud of all my kids, but it is our children's children who crown our heads with glory.

This morning I am asking God that whenever I have opportunity to drive Miss Daisy, to help me to always take her safely in the right direction. Thank you , Lord for the blessed privilege of Driving Miss Daisy!

Don't Let Go!

Do you need a blessing? This morning I want us to learn something from the story of Jacob in Genesis chapter 32. Jacob was returning to his homeland where he was going to have to face his brother Esau. Well, this should have been something to look forward to just like we look forward to family gatherings during the holidays. Unfortunately, Jacob was dreading this moment, because he and his mother had plotted against Esau to get Esau's blessing. Earlier in the 27th chapter of Genesis we read how they deceived Isaac by dressing Jacob in Esau's clothes and putting goat skin on the back of his neck and hands because he was not a hairy man like his brother Esau. They succeeded, in their grand deception and Isaac gave the blessing Jacob that he had intended for Esau.

Later Esau returns, having prepared a special meal for his father, ready to receive his blessing. When he learns what has happened he bursts out in a loud and bitter cry, "Father, bless me, too!" Isaac responds, "Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing." (Genesis 27:35)

Then we read a little further to discover that Esau held a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him. He said to himself, "The days of mourning for my father are near; then I will kill my brother Jacob." (Genesis 27:41) As you can see, Jacob had good reason to be concerned about his reunion with his brother Esau.

One thing Jacob has learned through the years is where to turn when you face uncertainty. Jacob sends everyone on ahead and stays behind to seek God. He prays earnestly through the night. Genesis 32:24 describes this time of prayer, as a wreslting match, "So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak." What really gets my attention are Jacob's words, in verse 26, "I will not let you go unless you bless me."

Like Jacob we may face uncertain times. We may struggle with fear about relationships gone awry. We may even have been responsible for making the very mess that we are in the middle of right now. What is different about Jacob is the tenacious way he responds to his problem.

Jacob did three things. First he got away from all other distracions so he could focus all his attention on this time of prayer. We need to get away from the crowd to be alone with God. Secondly, he committed whatever time was necessary. He needed an answer, and like the old-timers used to say, "He prayed until he prayed through!" He tarried in prayer. We are so accustomed to fast food and drive through services that we often want our prayer life to be that way too. It's just easier if we can make spiritual things more convenient. Thirdly, Jacob was determined to have his blessing from God. "I will not let you go unless you bless me." Here I am, Lord, no matter how long it takes, whatever the cost, whatever changes must be made, even if it affects the rest of my life.

Perhaps you are thinking, "Well, Jacob was just desperate." Maybe your right. Perhaps we need a little desperation in our lives to bring us to a place of prevailing prayer. Have you been praying about something that's important enough or about which you are desperate enough to come to God with whatever commitment it takes? Are you ready to join Jacob in this kind of powerful prayer commitment, "I will not let you go unless you bless me." Don't let go! God has a blessing for you today!

Is God Fair? Part 2

Wow, who would believe that there could be such strong difference of opinion about such a little question? However, if we can hang in here I believe there is certainly some growing room for all of us. That is of course the goal of discipleship, that we grow up into mature believers strong in the faith. As we grow in Christ, we must do as Paul admonishes Timothy in 2 Tmothy 2:15:

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

Truth shouldn’t bring division in the body of Christ but should liberate us and give us freedom. This is what the Bible says this in John 8:32

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

Then in John 13:35 Jesus says,

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Therefore tonight I want to be sure that I respond in a way that promotes unity in our body. You see,

Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverbs 13:10

When this question was asked last Wednesday evening I responded quickly because I have thought through this issue before. I felt ready to give an answer that was based on experience. In response to the question, “Is God fair?” I said, “No, He is not fair. but He is just and holy and right.” To many, I’m sure that seemed like a contradiction, because of the difference in the way we were interpreting the word, fair.

I want to make it clear, that neither I nor any others in leadership here at Christian Fellowship believe that God is unjust, or faulty in any way. He is Absolute Perfection.

Therefore, many could not be comfortable saying that he is unfair, because that would attribute a negative quality to our perfectly holy God.

Since I have already given a personal perspective on my blog www.newconnection.blogspot.com , therefore I don’t intend here to try to make any further defense of that position. Unfortunately, believing I was entirely justified to do so, I dug in my heals without yielding and entered into debate. Now, I hope that you will allow me to answer again, from a perspective that has been broadened through reflection during this week.

I want to respond to this question again, “Is God fair?” heading the admonition of Paul to the church at Ephesus, In Ephesians 4:1-3:

¹As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. ²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ³Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

Instead of answering this soley from my perspective, I want to try to look at the question from two other perspectives. One of those is one quite worthy of respect because it belongs to many of my brothers and fellow laborers in the Lord, and the other which is probably most important of all is God’s perspective.

First, those who responded so quickly, “Yes, God is fair.” From this perspective, unfairness is negative and imperfect; therefore, it could not be associated with our perfect and holy God. Hey, if you put it that way, nobody could argue against that. He must therefore be fair, if fair is a positive quality.

Next there is God’s perspective. Let me predicate my puny effort to look at this question from His perspective by saying, that it is impossible for me to fully comprehend His perspective. However, I believe that everything God does is fair from His perspective, and if we could fully see every situation from that lofty height and understand His divine reasons for all that He does, then we would comprehend that He is entirely fair. As it is, we cannot comprehend, and therefore must only trust and believe that our God, Who is completely Just, Holy, Right, and Perfect in every way, also knows why what he does is also absolutely equal and fair. His divine knowledge is the equalizer that makes all things equal from His lofty height.

Human reason quickly responds, “No, God is not fair; everyone is not treated the same. Some have more advantages than others.” Divine Wisdom responds, “If only you knew.”

Hope in the Lord

This year I have seen so many images of hopeless people. The devastation that ravaged New Orleans and left so many homeless also left such vivid images in our minds. With so much hoplessness in the world there is such a tremendous need for hope. People across the nation reached out after Katrina sending emergency help and assistance. Still we have listened to the frustation flow from people who have materially lost so much that they have been emotionally devestated.

This morning's word is hope! We have heard much about lost confidence in government agencies and programs. We have heard much about about the failures of the same, and it only reminds us that in this world we will have disappointment. However there is good news!

The Psalmist recorded it in Psalm 37:9
For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. NIV

There is so much misguided confidence. To place your confidence in agencies, programs, or people, is a recipe for discouragement, so this morning I want to encourage you to wholeheartedly place your hope in God. Jeremiah records this promise in Jeremiah 29:11,

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. NIV

Not only does God have plans for you, but He has unlimited resources to bring those plans about. It is time that we began to trust Him. Hey, the future looks bright, because God, himself is planning it with you in mind. May He fill your heart with hope today as you embrace the fullness of His plans for you.

Reflection on our Men's Fellowship

A number of our men from Christian Fellowship met tonight at the church for supper and devotions. Both were served up superbly by our own Chuck Ferney. Chuck is pictured at the right with his wife Sharon. Chuck cooked up some rice and beans that were served with crackers and cheese. Then for desert we chowed down on on our choice of giant fudge rounds or brownies. We ate and laughed and then shared in a devotion that applied Chuck's expertise in hunting to our serving the Lord. He began with preparation for the hunt, sharing the importance of understanding our goals, and the tools we might need. Next we considered what a day in the field might be like, and talked about reflection afterward. Chuck drew us all into a time of sharing our thoughts about these ideas as we applied them to our walk with God. It was encouraging to hear him share how God was helping him to grow through applying these principles in his spiritual life. He is certainly an example of a man growing in Christ and discovering his divine purpose. Chuck demonstrated how we can be used of God to bless others if we only make ourselves available. Why not plan on joining us in our meetings in the New Year. My prayer is that God will open the door of opportunity even wider, as he continues to reveal all his great purpose for our lives. May God Belss you richly is our prayer.

"Cape Disappointment"

Near the mouth of the Columbia River in Washington State stands Cape Disappointment Lighthouse. The force of the river flowing into the Pacific Ocean creates one of the most dangerous bars in the world. From 1725 to 1961, 234 ships have been identified that were either sunk, stranded, or burned near the mouth of this river. It was Captain John Meares who named the area, "Cape Disappointment," when to no avail he sought shelter from the treacherous sea on July 6, 1788. (Picture and info from www.lighthousefriends.com)


Although most of us have never visited the place pictured here, all of us have experienced disapointment. In fact, Disappointmet is a given in life. The prophet Jeremiah certainly understood it. He writes in Jeremiah 2:36:

Why do you go about so much, changing your ways? You will be disappointed by Egypt as you were by Assyria. NIV

Disappointment certainly is not limited geographically. Unfortunately, some people handle their disappointments by looking for a new location. The problem is that they usually just relocate the problem, when they relocate themselves.

The message this morning is a simple one, and comes from Isaiah 49:23

Then you will know that I am the LORD; those who hope in me will not be disappointed. NIV

I believe that disappointment flows from misplaced hope. The clear word from Isaiah is that we will not be disappointed if we put our hope in the Lord. We are however so easily distracted by the cares of this world. Fear presses in on us. Our own failures and shortcomings overwhelm us. We are disappointed in others and in ourselves. Therein lies the problem. We need to redirect our focus. Hope in the Lord! You will never be disappointed in Him. The Psalmist put it like this in Psalm 22:4-5:

In you our fathers put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. They cried to to you and were saved; in you they trusted and were not disappointed. NIV

This morning I want to encourage you with the words of the the old hymn, "Take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there." Take time to lift your disappointments to the Lord in prayer, and when you finish praying, "leave them there, leave them there, take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there."

Finally there are three statements in Jeremiah 29:14 from the Message version that I believe are a powerful word from God today. First, "I'll make sure you won't be disappointed." Second, "I'll turn things around for you." Then lastly, "You can count on it." Put your hope in the Lord today. He will never disappoint you!

Thoroughly Tested Promises!

God's word is full of promises. In fact, there are so many that books have been written on the promises of the Bible. My wife's grandmother had a book entitled, "All the Promises of the Bible," and it was as thick as a Bible. You might say, "Well, the Bible is full of promises, so what?" A promise is only valuable if it is kept, and unfortunately, we have all experienced the disappointment of broken promises. However, that's what really excites me about God's word for us today in Psalm 119:140:

Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them. NIV

When you have a promise from a trusted source, it fills you with expectation and excitement. You look forward to the realization of that promise, because you know the promise giver has a perfect record! You might be somewhat excited about a promise from someone who kept their word most of the time, and who usually had the best of intentions. If they broke their promise they didn't really mean to break it. The Psalmist says that God's promises have been thoroughly tested! This is the good news, that our Promise Giver never fails! He never breaks His word. Listen to how Paul described these promises in 1 Corinthians 1:20:

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. NIV

This morning I want you to be full of hope in the promises God has given you. It's all right. You can take the risk and trust Him. His thoroughly tested promises will not fail you. In this world people will disappoint you, but Jesus never fails. Have a blessed day!

Sunday Recap

We had a great day Sunday! We returned to John's letter to the church at Philadelphia in Revelation 3:7-8:

To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write:
These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. NIV

I believe God is saying these things to us from this passage. Firstly, He has given us an open door. Secondly, no one can shut this door. Thirdly, we have a little strength. Fourthly, we have kept his word.

Here is the message in a single statement. Since God has given us both a door of opportunity and strength sufficient to walk through it, we need to have the tenacity to keep on demonstrating our faith in His word. We may have a wonderful opportunity in front of us, and we may have strength enough to walk through that open door. We may even have some history of faithfulness, but if we do not use whatever strength to press on through this open door, we could have a missed opportunity. Let us be tenacious about putting our faith into action. We have God's word, so let's do it.

Caught in a Loop!

There is a scene in the last Matrix film where Neo is stuck in cyberspace at this really weird train station. When the train comes it picks up everyone but him. So he decide to jump down on the tracks and just run to get out of there. He runs off the left side of the screen into the darkness only to appear again on the right side of the screen, right back at the same place he started. All his efforts are just getting him nowhere! I know it's crazy, but I have really felt that way before. In Atlanta, there are so many oneway streets, that on one of my trips see the Braves, I simply felt like I was going around in circles trying to get back to the interstate.

Last night and this morning, I've been trying to follow instructions on my Norton Antivirus Program to get rid of some "at risk" files. I have followed all the instructions, and you guessed it I have gotten nowhere fast! I did a google search to try and find a remedy for some of the problems, and wow! did I ever find a lot of help? I was overwhelmed with instructions, help, new programs to buy, and different ways to "fix" my probelm. Which one is right? If you choose the wrong one, it might be really expensive, and it might even make your poblems worse instead of better! What do you do?

Sometimes I'm afraid that we approach spiritual problems much the same way. We get guidance from too many sources, or what's worse we use a faulty guidance system. The word for today is again from the Psalmist, Psalm 119:37:

Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. NIV

There certainly are loads of worthless instruction out there. So, this morning I want to encourage you to get your directions from a trusted source. The one source that can always be trusted. Let God's Word guide you today. This is Truth that works!

And while your turning your eyes away from worthless things, "Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace." Have a blessed day.

Day by Day, Step by Step

Wow! What if you could know the future before it happened? There would be so many things you could avoid. You could avoid getting that traffic ticket. You certainly wouldn't have had that wreck. You probably would be tempted to win the Lottery, and you could justify it too. Why, look at all the good you could do! We know that God knows the future, and he could reveal it to us if He would. This is what God said in Isaiah 46:10

I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. NIV

Obviously, God has not chosen do reveal all these things to us. We have to live one day at a time, moment by moment, step by step, like the old gospel song, "One day at a time, Sweet Jesus."

I know that Psalm 119 is a really long Psalm, but it is full of some great things, and I want to return to it again this morning for a word from the Lord. In Psalms 119:105 the Psalmist records:

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

Much like the way I pick up a flashlight in the darkness to see where I'm going and to avoid stumbling, I can find light from God's Word to see me through the daily darkness of this world.
His Word guides me one step at a time.

You might ask, "Well, since God knew about this problem I was going to face, why didn't he tell me? Why did I have to suffer like that? Why did he let me have that accident? We certainly don't know how many times He has intervened to save us from the destructive plans of our prowling enemy. This morning I want to encourage you get daily light for your God connection. You don't have to stumble in the darkness. God has a plan for your life, and He is revealing it to us little by little, and step by step, as we walk in the light of His Word.

I am praying like this today:

Dear Lord, help me to continue to prioritize the place of your Word in my daily life. Please, God, help me not to allow the pressures of this season to crowd out my time with you, listening to you speak to me through your Word. Now, may your light shine sufficiently on my pathway today to keep me from falling. May it also brighten my way enough to give light to others who are also making the God connection. Amen

May the Lord bless your day.

Well I'm a little late getting started this morning. As you can tell from my previous post, I was up a little later last night, thinking about the Wednesday evening Bible Study Question. Also, I just returned from the barn (pictured above) where Monnie, Jeffrey, and I fed our horses. Some of them needed a little extra attention. Now a word for today.

Where are you going?
There is a story about this science nerd attending a big science convention. His flight had been delayed and by the time he disembarked from his plane and claime his luggage in this big international airport, he was running plenty late. He hailed a taxi (I believe it must have been in New York). The driver's name was definitley foreign and long enough to need most of the letters in our alphabet. As he jumped into the Taxi, he said, "I'm in a hurry; step on it, I need to get there as fast as we can!" The driver sped out of the airport just a quickly as he could navigating the traffic, and finally was hurring through the city, when our science-nerd friend, asked, "Where are we going?" To which the driver responded, "I don't know, sir, but I'm going as fast as I can!" Listen to the words of the Psalmist in Psalm 119:59-60

I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands. NIV

Unlike our poor taxi driver who was hurrying along going nowhere, the Psalmist is both hastening to obey God and has considered where he is going. In this fast-paced world, people are in such a hurry! What is it, now, just 24 days until Christmas? We call this time the "Christmas Rush." Does it seems like the Christmas Rush was preceded by the Thanksgiving Rush, only to be followed by the New Year's Rush? In our culture it seems like we begin the year in a rush only to end it the same way. This morning I want to encourage you to slow down a little and consider your ways. Where are you headed? Are you going nowhere fast? There's something we can do about it, and I'm going to do it right now. Maybe you would like to join me in this prayer:

Dear God, It is so easy for me to get caught up in the hurry, hurry, hurry, of these times. In fact sometimes the demands on my time would rob me of my time with you. So, here I am, Lord. For now, I'm ignoring the phone, and all the other demands and pressures of this day. I am crying out to You and asking you to guide my steps, as I endeavor to make your commands my top priority. Please, Lord, help me to keep my focus where it needs to be, and not delay my obedience to You. Amen.

I really like the way The Message version reads here:

When I took a long, careful look at your ways, I got my feet back on the trail you blazed. I was up at once, didn't drag my feet, was quick to follow your orders. Psalm 119:59-60

May your day be richly blessed as you Connect with God today.