What if the World Ends Tonight

December 30

“Everything will be fine you’ll see,” his mother said lovingly before leaving.

“But suppose the world does end,” her six year old insisted, “I won’t see you again.”

She assured him, “I’ll see you in Heaven. You will go up from here and your Dad and I from the Civic Center.”

“How will I find you in Heaven? It will be more crowded than the Civic Center.”

She hugged him. “Remember Heaven has pearly gates? Wait for me there. Ok?”

“That’s a deal Mom.”

“Mizpah, because he said, ‘May the Lord watch between me and you when we are absent one from another.” (Genesis 31:49)

Go Figure

December 29

Before they left the funeral home the sisters prayed for a sign that their deceased dad was all right. A few days later Diane was listening to Public Radio while driving her car. Faith Middleton, was interviewing an author who responded to a question by saying, “It all began when I was shipwrecked off the coast of Africa.”
That’s how her dad started every bedtime story when they were girls. She called her sister who had heard the same program. They took this as a sign their dad was ok.

“Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!
For His mercy endures forever.”
(Psalm 136.3)

Cheerful Giving

December 28

The minister said there were ten apples in the basket and took one out to illustrate tithing. "This one is for God," the minister said holding up the apple. A little girl said, "Poor God, only gets one apple."

The minister ate the apple while telling of the widow's gift of two Mitre coins. Placing the core in the offering plate she asked, "When we give are we giving just what is left over?"

That is a sobering question. Am I willingly and joyfully sharing my bounty or am I just giving leftovers? How about you?

"So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver."
(2 Corinthians 9:7)

New York Cab Driver

December 27

I was catching all the lights green. I zipped across Broadway in the Big Apple to the other side to continue my journey through the city when suddenly traffic was coming directly at me.

I was heading right for a cab. Breaks squealed and I swerved to the right and he did the same. Both cars came to a screeching halt side by side. Slumped over his wheel the cabby whispered, "One way buddy." It seemed all of New York was staring at me. Clearly I was at fault. I obviously didn’t know the city to be driving the way I did.

"It is not good for a soul to be without knowledge, and he sins who hastens with his feet." (Proverbs 19:2)

The Day After

December 26

The Christmas wrappings are trash, the stockings are empty and soon it will be time to store the decorations for another year. I admit to a day after Christmas let down. Why can’t we smile some more and wish each other happiness as we did yesterday. I want to linger a little longer to the notion of peace on earth. I want to hold onto Christmas everyday and not go back to ‘normal.’

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14)

Christmas Away from Home

December 25

It is my first Christmas away from home courtesy of the U.S. Army. I’m stationed in the Panama Canal Zone. My view of Christmas is snow, sleighs and evergreens.
Here there are palm trees, plastic wreaths and cardboard snowmen. I’m just not in the Christmas spirit.I'm having a pity party for mysrlf.

I go to the chapel for a candle light service. As I leave,it dawns on me that the first Christmas was in a desert. I get the message loud and clear.

“Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the City of David Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
(Luke 2:11)

Speak Up

December 24

It is Christmas Eve and we are to give the “moment of sharing” tonight at First Church of Christ in Wethersfield, Ct. Joy has a bad case of laryngitis. We pray hard.
At the 5:30 service she is barely audible. The Senior Minister urges Joy to speak louder. By the 7:30 her voice is a little louder. We pray more.At the 9:30 service her voice is stronger.

At midnight she sounds like herself. I share with that congregation how the Lord has been answering our prayers. There is applause for God. Driving home Joy turns to say something and her voice is gone. It doesn’t return to normal for two days.

"With men this is impossible but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

The Wise Men

December 23

The story is familiar. Magi come from the East, following a bright star. "On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary and they bowed down and worshiped him." (Matthew 2:11)

HOUSE! What happened to the stable?
The wise men traveled better than a year to find the new king, which explains when they didn’t return to Jerusalem paranoid King Herod orders all children two years and younger slain. Wise men obey God and act on faith. We all should too.

"And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod they returned to their country by another route." (Matthew 2:12)

Icebreaker

December 22

Many of us hadn’t met before so the hostess played a game to break the ice. Each of us was to say three things about ourselves, one of which was a lie. I said:
“I spent a day with poet Robert Frost; President George Bush Sr. greeted me at the White House; “Tony Randall would tell you he saved my life.”

The statements about Robert Frost and Tony Randall are true. Actually it was Barbara Bush who greeted me in the White House, not the President. The game is an exercise in how to deceive by twisting the truth. The master deceiver, Satan, does this all the time.

“Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.” (Matthew 24:5)

Advent Can get Personal

December 21

It is Advent but our nation is at war. The Priest’s heart is heavy with the killing and by the atrocities men do to other men.
He says he turned on the TV and a woman is asked what she would like most this Christmas. She sings, "Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me."
The Priest says, "I wept. I knew what I had to do and it has to begin with me."

Jesus lived the words of that song, "Let there be peace and let it begin with me."

"I did not come to judge the world but to save it." (John 12:47)

The Best Place to be

December 20

The front page of The Hartford Courant has a picture of two toll stations on a bridge. Both have green lights but one is empty while the other has a line of cars. The caption explains the commuters are going out of their way to show their appreciation to a friendly toll taker on his last day at work. That picture shows me I can be God's aroma of love to everyone, no matter what I'm doing or where. Isn’t that the best place to be, in His will?

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)

"It's a Wonderful Life"

December 18

The video I bought was Frank Capra's classic, "It's a Wonderful Life." I didn’t know the story but I like Jimmy Stewart.

The main character George Bailey is a good man but blames himself when things start going wrong. Money to save his bank is lost and Bailey misplaces his faith.
The message is an important reminder that when our heart is right and we help others God will bail us out just as George Bailey was delivered in the film. It is a wonderful life when we see God in it.

“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich and He adds no sorrow to it.”
(Proverbs 10:22)

It is all Attitude

December 17

Jenny was in her 80's and walked a mile everyday to the church office arriving with a smile and a kind word for everybody.

Then there was Leo, “Mr. Fix It,” drawing after his car rolled backwards demolishing a metal shed he had just erected. What are you doing Leo? “I'm designing a new shed and this time I'm making it out of wood, so if this ever happens again, at least I'll have some kindling left."

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

Christmas Shopping

December 16

While shopping Joy saw a young mother struggling with two little girls. She was speaking sharply to them.
Joy said to those girls “aren't you fortunate to have such a nice Mom who brings you shopping with her.” Walking down the aisle she hears the woman address her girls in a pleasant tone of voice.
“That was God using me to reach that young mother." Joy mused, "God wants to use us to give words of encouragement."
I can do that I thought. Who can I encourage? How about you.

"Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.”
(Matthew 20:26)

My Radio Debut

December 15

It is my big chance to do the midday café show, on college radio. I am the disc
jockey and my own engineer. The hour goes well, I think, and I fantasize some pretty coed making her way over to Davis Hall to get a glimpse of the man behind the voice. I end on time and reach for the main power switch. HORRORS. It is already off. My voice has never left the studio. If I am not connected to the power source all I do is for naught.

"I am the vine. You are the branches, he who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." (John 15:5)

Listen to God Speak

December 14

God speaks to us in many ways, most notably through His Word. Many times I have picked up my Bible and there is the very passage I need for that moment.
Charlie, a friend, while laying in traction thought, “Ok God you have my attention.”
God wants to interact with us. Listen and notice God’s way in your life and embrace the Almighty’s love.

“See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from Heaven.” (Hebrews 12:25)

A Christmas Present

December 13

Every year a realtor raised funds and donated toys to needy families. But she was feeling depressed this year over not selling her house and had no energy for anything, never mind raise funds for toys.
One weekend her house finally sold and on Monday her boss informed her that all the sales associates decided not to exchange Christmas presents but to buy toys instead and donate them to ‘her project.’

“It was God saying, Ok your house is sold here are the toys, now go distribute them. Isn’t our God awesome?”

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, For He is good, For His mercy endures forever.”
(Psalm 136:1)

A Boy's Letter

December 12

The Christmas carol on the radio ends. There is a moment if silence. A boy's voice breaks the quiet. "Our class project was to write a letter to an unknown soldier serving in Irag. I thought that's cool, my dad is in Irag. So I wrote the uknown soldier just like I'd write my dad."

'Dear Soldier- You are missed. Come home soon. Love Andy. '

The teacher collected our letters and took care of mailing them. None of us expected
to hear anything more. Several weeks later a letter from Irag arrived at my school. It was for me. My letter had reached my very own dad.

" with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Christmas Carols

December 11

There we were, about 20 strong including about eight young children, singing carols in the dining room of an asisted living facility. Several residents and their visitors sang along with us from their tables. Then we went singing to those who had their meals at their bedside. We left wishing all a Merry Christmas. Joy exclaimed, "This is the best thing I've done this Christmas." She was right.
It is wonderful all the little things God does through us.

"I was sick and you visited me. Assuredly I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me." (Matthew 25:36-40)

Making a Gift Guietly

December 10

As advisers to a handicapped facility we would sometimes learn of needs of the
Individuals. One lady wanted a special attachment for her apartment, which was not covered by financial assistance. I gave the director a small check for the item.
Months later during an open house Joy went on a guided tour. Driving home she says, “I’m glad I came, otherwise I would never have known about your gift. The resident saw my name tag and told me how appreciative she is.”

“and your Farther who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”
(Matthew 6:4)

Christmas Cards

December 8

I look at Christmas cards differently than I did some years ago. I used to send the religious cards to the minister and a few church friends, the Currier and Ives scenes to most people on my card list and the humorous cards to family and close friends. Now I send cards appropriate to the “ reason for the season,” to everyone.

I don’t write Xmas anymore, to me that is crossing Christ out of Christmas.
One Christmas card I receive stands out. Its message is a timely reminder.

“From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another.”
(John 1:16)

The Arizona

December 7

In the motor launch to the sunken battleship Arizona I notice there are as many Japanese tourists as Americans. Pearl Harbor is as much a part of Japanese history as it is of ours. I am surprised by this but not angry. I'm proud that this nation has followed the policy of reconciliation it has with its former World War II enemies. It really is the only way to lasting peace. Jesus must be pleased too.

"I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matthew 5:44)

Picking out a Christmas Tree

December 6

Every year when I lived in Connecticut we’d head out to Bob Merriman’s Tree Farm in Burlington to pick out a live tree. The kids and dog loved roaming the woods searching for the perfect tree, especially in the snow.
My children and now grandchildren are like those trees. We get them as seedlings with a short time in which to shape them and give them roots. I’ve shared the excitement of searching for a Christmas tree with them. I must share with them the joy of knowing the maker of that tree.

“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14)

Christmas at Home

December 5

My first Christmas was 1933. I was a depression baby and grew up in a working neighborhood. Like “The Waltons,” we didn’t have much but we had each other.
Christmas was a special time. We had a cut tree, electric candles in the windows,and a fresh wreath on the door. Unlike the Waltons, Bible reading was not central in my family. However, my parents modeled moral values and I know the Lord blessed us. God loves a loving family.

“ And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children.
And the hearts of the children to their fathers…” (Malachi 4:6)

History Lesson

December 4

In Westminster Abbey there are statues to British figures dating to the 17th century. In the crypt are graves that predate the Mayflower. Outside of London I tour the ruins of an old Roman garrison. Yet we are told in the history of our planet the last five minutes has been mankind.

“Indeed, You have made my day as handbreadths. My age is nothing before you; certainly every man at his best state is but vapor. Surely every man at his best walks about like a shadow; surely they busy themselves in vain; He heaps up riches and does not know who will gather them.” (Psalm 39:5-6

Selling a House in a Buyers Market

December 3

It is a buyer’s market with the average house sale is taking six months. We are moving in a month and need to sell fast.
I am pounding a for sale sign into the ground when a car stops in front of our house. The young lady driver says she has been looking for a house on this street. A week later she buys our house. Realtors call and can’t believe we sold the house so quickly. They didn’t know that we had asked God to be our real estate agent.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God.” (Philippians 3:6)

Grace in Time of Need.

December 2

My van is zipping along when I hear “whap.” The battery gauge drops to zero. I exit and head for the nearest gas station.

“Here’s your trouble," the owner says pulling out a shredded belt. While waiting for a tow truck I realize how blessed I am. Yesterday I was driving this van on a dark road with miles between exits.

Praise the Lord for his continue mercies.

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace in time of need.”
(Hebrews 4:16)

Another Day

December 1

Another day to hear the birds sing,
A chance to see another rainbow,
An opportunity to learn something new,
More time to forgive and to forget,
Another day to appreciate all that grows,
Lord thank you for another day to serve,
Another chance to make a difference,
Time to embrace the moment,
One more day to seek God,
Everyday is a precious gift.

“Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”
(2 Peter 3:13)

Yellow Dot

November 30

While visiting a small Lutheran church in Sturbridge Massachusetts I found a sheaf of yellow dots with sticky backs in the guest register in the pew. A note said to put one of these dots on the face of your watch to remind you to take time to pray. Good idea I thought. I’m always looking at my watch.

Every time I look at my watch now I see that yellow dot and pray. I need more yellow dots in my life How about you?

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
{1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Bill's Example

November 29

Bill was a family man, a partner in a large law firm and head of the community foundation board. I was on the staff. For years Bill had been quietly fighting cancer. He was back in the hospital this time he had his nose removed.“I’ll have a dressing over the hole,” he said, “but I’m still going to the conference.” On the plane he was as upbeat as ever. Suddenly he sneezed. I blurted, “I didn’t know you could sneeze without a nose.” He smiled

“Sure, and I have a built in handkerchief.”

“The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; he who keeps his way preserves his soul.” (Proverbs 16:17)

Rhode Island Accent

November 28

Native Rhode Islanders have an accent and their own language. I know for I am one.
A cabinet is not made of wood but it is a milk shake with ice cream in it. Some Rhode Islanders have a tendency to pronounce an r that is not there and to leave one off when it is present. To wit; beer becomes bea and Tampa is Tamper..
There really is only one voice we need to hear and heed.

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give them eternal life and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” (John 10:27-28)

Thanksgiving

November 27

We pack up the kids, the hot dishes and slide off on icy roads to the church parish house. There are about fifty adults and children at this neighborhood thanksgiving. We stand hand in hand giving thanks for all God’s bounty. We break bread and share the Lord’s Supper before eating our own.
We arrived as strangers but we leave filled with fellowship with others who are grateful for God’s blessings. This is a Thanksgiving I shall long remember.

Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. (Psalm 95:2)

Moving Time

November 26

It had been a beautiful weekend to visit our nation’s capital. We visit the White House with a group but President Johnson remains upstairs. On Sunday we attend the National Cathedral where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. is guest preacher.

That evening, driving to Connecticut, we hear President Johnson say he will concentrate on seeking peace and will not seek reelection. It is a dark time for America. It would get worse. The following Thursday Dr. King is assassinated in Memphis

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God.”
(Matthew 5:9)

The Hand

November 25

There it is! The shadow of a hand is on my bedroom floor. I scream as only a seven year old can. My mother flicks on the light. I insist the hand was there. My mother turns out the light and sits on my bed. Soon the moonlight reappears on the floor. “Look,” I yell, “There is THE HAND.”I hear her gasp. My mother saw it too. In the light I can see a frown then a smile. She removes a cutout of Pinocchio waving from the wall. I am thankful for a mother who showed her boy compassion.

“Then cradling a child in His arms, Jesus said,'Whoever embraces one of these children as I do embraces me and God who sent me." (Mark 9:36-37.)

Angels

November 24

An angel is “a messenger of God.” This is the first definition listed in the dictionary.
I stop in a coffee shop in a small city. The young woman behind the counter looks sad. I ask if she is OK. She tells me she has just come from the hospital where her mother is facing a sensitive operation in the morning. I say I will pray for her and her mom.

A week later as I enter that shop I hear her say to another customer, “Here comes my guardian angel.” I’m not but God did use me to bring her hope.

“I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” (Matthew 25:40)

Cheerful Giver

November 23

“She is desperate,” the secretary said, “I thought you might be willing to help. She can rent a car and get to the hospital and back for fifty dollars.” Joy gladly drops the money off at the church office.

The next day while rummaging through her desk. Joy finds $65 she had put away for something she has forgotten about. (Hmmm) She learns the lady received a ride to the hospital but spent $23 on gas and tolls. She returned the $27 to the church office.

“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
(2 Corinthians 9:7)

Learning from the Geese

November 22

Canadian geese fly in a V formation, which actually helps the individual bird fly higher and longer than if it flew alone. Several geese honk encouragement to the leader up front and when the point bird tires, another takes its place. If one bird is wounded or sick and leaves the formation, two will go with it for protection. The two will stay with the injured bird until it recovers or dies. The remaining two will then return to another flock.
We can learn a lot from those traits of the Canadian geese.

“In the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge.” (Psalms 57:1)

Turning Points

November 21

Turning Points! These are the defining moments in our lives. My wife Joy’s turning point came at a Billy Graham crusade in Hartford Ct. “I responded to the call that night,” she says, “but I didn’t come to the Lord until I decided to follow Him wherever He wants me to go.” The real turning point is when a life is turned from the world to God, from me to Thee.

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”
(Galatians 2:20)

Where Does the Sun Go?

November 20

A small voice from the back seat asks, “Where does the sun go? I reply, “I’ll show you when we get home,” I bring a flashlight (sun) and grab an orange (earth) and there in the dining room I explain the cosmos to a four-year-old.
A week later driving home as the sun sets I hear, “There goes the sun behind the orange.” I should have told her where the sun comes from not where it goes.

“Then God said, “Let there be light;” and there was light. And God saw the light that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. (Genesis 1:3-4)

Modern Day David vsGoliath

November 19

This time the battlefield is downtown Montpelier, Vt. Goliath is a major ice cream maker and David is an Italian Ice vendor whose slingshot is a one page flyer protesting being barred from a festival sponsored by the giant. The flyer works. The vendor is invited to the festival. The giant is not slain, just cut down to size. I know God is smiling. I’ll bet an ice cream or a dish of Italian ice on that.

“All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves, for the battle is the Lord’s.
(l Samuel 17:47 NIV)

Keep Praying

November 18

A friend in our church is going in for an operation for breast cancer. I pray briefly right then for the Lord’s mercy and hand in that surgery.
Later that day I learn that her operation went well and the surgeon thought it was a success. I quietly say,” Thank you Lord for a prayer answered.” I’m blown away when I hear that her whole office stopped what they were doing and prayed when she went into surgery and didn’t stop praying until she came out.

“Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:28)

Praising God for Death

November 17

When I read that line in a newsletter I thought, “right on.” I hadn’t thought about praising God for death before but I should.

Art, who authored the newsletter, wrote “I walked into ‘Granma’s’ room to see if she wanted anything when I realized that she is not there. She is alive in Heaven with Jesus.”

My daughter called me six months after her grandfather died and said, “I just realized Pop Pops is not here, I can’t call him anymore.” That realization can be a lonely moment or it can be a freeing one. For believers, death is not final.

“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

Anniversary

November 15

It is our tenth wedding anniversary and we exchange hugs and a card at breakfast.
During breakfast Mr. A.calls he and his wife are arguing, counselors and ministers are away. Mrs. A arrives wanting to talk with Joy. That night we have the couple over for dinner. We listen, first to one and then the other and urge more professional help. We pray together. Hearing their complaints reminds us how blessed we are in our own relationship and keeping God in the center. The fresh realization of the love we share is a priceless anniversary present.

“Of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.” (John 1:16)

Love Light

November 14

She said she felt sick and could I come right home. I just had a thought to call.
I found her in bed with a temperature.

Seeing her eyes, I was struck by how real love can be. I remembered a preacher saying, “Our love is like a light, which instantly dispels the darkness. Sometimes the light is shut out when a door is closed but that isn’t the light’s fault. The moment the door is reopened the light is there.”

God’s love is like that, I thought. On this night our bedroom was filled with His love light. We left the door wide open.

“Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:8)

Cantaloupe

November 13

Cantaloupe is my favorite. I marvel at the master gardener who conceived this delicious and wholesome food. We plant the seed, maybe weed a little and then harvest the crop. Our partner provides the earth, the seed, the sun, the water and all that is needed for growth. He asks for the first ten per cent of the yield and we get to keep the ninety per cent. What a great deal.

Have I kept my part of the bargain? Have I thanked my Partner for my 90%? Have I given my 10%?

“We made ordinances to bring the first fruits of our ground and the first fruits of all trees, year by year, to the house of the Lord.” (Nehemiah10: 35)

Asking God for a Sign

November 12

We first met her at a divorce recovery small group Joy and I facilitated. She said at her lowest point a friend invited her to a birthday party for a six-year-old boy. While there she felt so lonely she retreated from the party into the living room and stood before a stone fireplace with her head bowed and prayed.
“I asked for a sign of help from God. I lifted my head and through my tears I saw a framed copy of “Footprints” hanging above the fireplace mantly.

“Call on Me in your day of trouble and I will deliver you and you will give me the glory.” (Psalm 50:15

Rainbows

November 11

My daughter, age eight, ran toward the brilliant rainbow descending into some trees. She is back quickly. “Did you find a pot of gold?” She shrugs, "Nope, just another campsite."

Twenty years later visiting Hawaii together she borrows my camera and walks off. When she returns to the beach I point out a rainbow. “That’s why I borrowed your camera, I wanted to surprise you when you get home." She was my rainbow that day, for rainbows are signs of a special bond.

“I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.” (Genesis 9:13)

Coming Up Short

November 10

“I need a little change for food, “he asks?

“I don’t have any change but I have a dollar.” I hand him a dollar.
“Thanks,” he says, “a hotdog costs $1.49. Do you have fifty cents?”

I bristle. “That’s it, I told you I didn’t have any change,” I say, knowing I have another dollar in my pocket.
He hurries off. I have given to the poor but reluctantly. “God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) I return to my Bible lying on the park bench and read:

“Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)

Pathways

November 9

The preacher list different pathways people take to feel close to God:
1. Relational…with other people
2. Contemplative- solitude ( Joy’s path)
3. Serving- feel closest when serving
4. Creation- feel God through nature
5. Intellectual-reading/study (mine)
6. Activist-the action people, leaders,
7. Worship- feel closest when worshiping
An appropriate verse for my pathway is:

“Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)

Fruit Trees

November 8

When I was growing up Rhode Island there was a small pear tree and a large apple tree in our yard. All we had to do was pick and enjoy the fruit at the end of the summer and rake the leaves at the end of the fall. God did all the rest.

Our family, friends and neighbors enjoyed plenty of tasty fruit throughout my eighteen years there. It wasn’t until long after we moved that I thanked God for the bounty from those trees. Listen to what Jesus tells the aposles and he isn't talking about apples and pears.

“Others fell on good ground and yielded a crop of a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears let him hear.” (Matthew 13:8-9)

Feeling Hepless

November 7

Joy feels upset with her dad and the way he is acting out in the rehab unit until she talks with his granddaughter who works in the mental health field. “He’s not angry with you or the nurses. He is angry with the helplessness of his situation.” We pray for peace and comfort for him.

A few days later her dad says, “You know I can’t go back to my apartment. I can’t live alone anymore.”

She finds an affordable rest home and Joy’s dad receives a warm welcome. Now he has a comfortable place to live and a new attitude.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”
(Matthew 9:28)

What is the Meaning of Life?

November 6

What is the meaning of life? Isn’t this the question of man down through the ages?
A local camera crew went to the man in the street to find out. Some quotes: “The meaning of life is to have fun and love others.” “Avoid Death!” “Sex” “Darn if I know.” “Take care of Mother Earth.”
Jesus answered the question this way:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind. This is the first commandment. The second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew (22:37-40)

Names and Addresses

November 5

Joy and I join others at the front of the church. The visiting preacher and the regular senior minister hand out 3x5 cards and pencils and asks each of us to print our name and address.

We all pray together. The ministers vow to pray for each of us by name everyday for a month. They ask us to pray for them daily. We say we will. The cards are placed on a table at the foot of a small wooden cross.

God doesn’t need our names and addresses God knows where to find us. The cross is there so we can find God.

"Come take up the cross, and follow Me." (Mark 10:21)

Election

November 4

The election for U.S. President in 2000 was so close we didn’t know who won for 35 days. In Florida the difference was less than one vote per precinct. Who says a vote doesn’t count.

A wise minister told me; “Think of your salvation as an election. There are three eligible voters. God has one vote and will always vote yes for your salvation. The Devil has one vote and will always vote no. You have the deciding vote.” Have you voted?

“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.”
(Matthew 10:32)

Giving it Away

November 3

He has been stuck since his last operation. He is on disability, is ending rehab and is totally depressed. I pray for guidance. At lunch he says, “I’m challenged physically but I’m ok mentally and spiritually.”

“You are not OK!” I retort. “ You are caught up in your pain and fears and it is consuming you.” (What made me say this?)

He stares at me. A uncomfortable silence, then he says: “What you are saying is that I have the grace but I’m keeping it to myself. I need to give it away.” I nod. We stand and hug..

“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be witnesses to Me.” (Acts 1:8)

Perfect Gentleman

November 2

"He is a perfect gentleman,” Joy says. “He is gentle, patient and kind. When I make a mistake he doesn’t throw it in my face. He lets me be me. That is a real gentleman.”
“How can anyone who demands things be done his way be a perfect gentleman,” I ask?

“You don’t understand me but he does.”

I’m feeling totally inadequate now. “I try to be a gentleman,” I suggest.

“You are,” she says softly, “But you are not a perfect gentleman-- “only God is the perfect gentleman.”

“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.” (2 Samuel 22:31)

Choices

November 1

A lady calls seeking a title for the church bulletin. I blurt out “Choices.” So that is the topic for my talk on Layman’s Sunday. Later I realize that the message I delivered that Sunday was intended for me.

I need to make the right choices in my life. I am a pretend Christian, going to church and saying the right things but not walking the walk. I needed to choose God as the priority in my life. I began by heeding the scripture read at that layman’s service.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and it will be open to you.” (Matthew 7:7)

Halloween

October 31

“Trick or treat?” Years ago we didn’t ask we just did tricks. Now children don masks and costumes and demand treats from grownups, like an entitlement.

The fact that All Saints Day follows Halloween is an appropriate reminder to put away the craziness for another year. Otherwise life could become a series of Halloweens with people wearing masks all the time. I know God wants me to take off my mask and get real with Him. No tricks or treats Lord, just living everyday humbly obeying You.

“By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life.” (Proverbs 22:4)

A Day of Rest

October 30

I don’t have trouble with the day of rest part but I struggle with keeping the day holy. How much of what I do is holy? Jesus was criticized for working on the Sabbath when he performed miracles. His response was, “can’t you do good on the Sabbath?” Doing good! That helps, I guess if it is good in God’s eye then it might be considered holy.

If I can live as God commanded, loving Him and loving my neighbors as myself that would be good. In fact, loving my neighbors as myself would be a miracle and miracles are holy.

God tells us to, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” (Exodus 20:8)

Bob Harron

October 29

He had a knack of seeing the best in people and encouraging them. Bob Harrron. was the first sports publicist at Columbia University. At Bob’s urging a Columbia baseball game became the first telecast of a team sport. (April 17, 1939) A reviewer wrote “baseball will never go on television.” Imagine that tongiht as you watch the Word Series. Thanks for you vision Bob.

When Bob retired he came to Trinity College and became my mentor.

God knows Bob I am still trying to be everything you thought I was.

“Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” (Romans 14:19)

Memory

October 28

I am struck this day by what a priceless gift memory is. Without memory there would be no knowledge. There would be no Bible. I wouldn't know my own name, or yours.
Memory is a wonderful gift and I shouldn't take it lightly. Thank God for it.
Without memory we would forget God. Moses warned us of this long ago.

“You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day. If you by any means forget the Lord your God, and follow other Gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you this day that you shall surely perish.” (Deuteronomy 8:18-19)

Redemption

October 27

This is redemption day (2004) for the Red Sox who win their first World Series since 1918. Destiny? They were down three games and came back to beat the Yankees in the ALCS, then swept St. Louis in the World Series.
Was it because Curt Schilling, wore a cross around his neck pitching or that David Ortiz pointed skyward crossing home plate after each homer. Was it those signs in the stands, “Reverse the Curse,” “We Believe” or “Have Faith.” Hmmm.

“ I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed you can say to this mountain, move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)

Birthday Present

October 26

This is Joy’s birthday. Friends drive us to a surprise gift. The car slows by a field, then we see it. Gads! It is a glider.

The pilot is dressed in jeans and a plaid shirt. “Nothing to worry about,” he smiles, “the leaves are in full color.” We squeeze into one rear seat and the pilot closes the canopy. The tow plane pulls us aloft and lets us go. “We are in God’s hands now,” I whisper. I thought gliding would be quiet. Joy gets her wish for a bird’s view of the Connecticut countryside. We thoroughly enjoy ourselves.

I’m just thankful the surprise wasn’t hang gliding.

“Give all your worries to God for He cares what happens to you.” (2Peter 5:7 NLT)

Mario and the Boys

October 25

Mario learned to play soccer as a boy in Italy. He coached my sons in beginning soccer, stressing the fundamentals and teamwork. During a game there was a break away. My Robbie (10) was back, his brother Steve (9) was goalie. They met the threat, legs went every which way and Rob kicked the ball right past Steve into his own goal.Groans on the sideline.

The booming voice of Mario rang across the field, "It's OK Robbie, even Pele' scored against himself.” He was kind and gentle to my young boys.

"Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God." (Mark 10:14)

Dave from the Project

October 24

His mom raised him, and his five siblings in a housing project. At age 13 Big Brothers matched him with Bob,19. who encouraged Dave to finish school and go to college. After college Bob offered Dave a job at the TV station where he worked.

Today, on his own, Dave is literally helping people around the world become successful in business. One of those people is Bob. Accepting an award Dave thanked God, his Mom, and Bob. "To succeed, work hard and pray,” Dave says.

"The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it."
(Proverbs 10:22)

Deceiving Myself

October 23

Our facilitator, Ron says, deception is looking outward at what the world says instead of looking inward at ourselves and what God says.” We list how we have
deceived ourselves. I write: Judging my success by the world’s standard-praise from men. Thinking that if I work hard all will be right and if I do good I am good.

“The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, who can know it? I the Lord, search the heart. I test the mind, even give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.” (Jeremiah 17:9-10)

Help From Strangers

October 22

Everything seems fine until I distinctly smell gasoline. I pull off the road, open the hood and find gas seeping out of the fuel line. It is a miracle that the engine hasn’t caught fire. Now what do I do?

A car pulls in behind me. The driver sees the leak and proceeds to tape the split hose. What a Godsend he is. Come to think of it, I have had a lifetime of Good Samaritans who have come by and bailed me out of trouble. on the roadways and byways of life. Many of them were strangers but as the parable says, they were my real neighbors. We should help one another.

"Then Jesus said to him, 'Go and do likewise." (Luke 10: 36-37)

Rock Climbing Lesson

October 21

The rock face is straight up. My arms ache as I stretch for the next finger crack. It is out of reach. I stretch and my feet slide out and I fall. Barry Barth, my bailer, is doing his job. He holds the lifeline and I bang against the rock and dangle there. No damage to the bones just to my pride.

God is like that bailer. I can't see Him but I know He is there. He keeps me from falling too far, but allows me to climb my own obstacles. He picks me up when I fall and He renews my strength when I stumble. God can be your bailer too.

“The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.”(Psalm 27:1)

How Does God Keep Track?

October 20

How can God keep track of everything?
I read,”God is within you.” That's it. Its like I’m a personal computer tied into a master computer. If I'm not plugged in I'm powerless. My screen is dark. Getting plugged in is an act of faith. Once logged on I can get an infinite amount of wisdom from the Master but that doesn't make me a mainframe. I’m still only a personal computer.

Jesus put it this way: "The Kingdom of God does not come visibly, nor will people say ‘here it is' or ‘there it is' because the Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:20-21)

Waiting for God's Direction

October 19

I have a friend who has been out of work for more than a year. He lives a least a mile from me on another street but there in my mailbox is a letter for him. God works in strange and wonderful ways. When I hand him the letter I ask how he is doing. He replies, "I am waiting on God to give me direction.”

"Did you ever think maybe God is waiting on you to get ready for His direction?” “I’m ready,” he says.

“How's your heart? Don't answer me, that's between you and God. I was just prompted to ask."

"As in water face reflects face, so a man's heart reveals the man." (Proverbs 27:19)

Woostock Open

October 18

We call it the Woodstock Open, named for the cartoon character. If your golf ball strikes a tree you get a plastic woody. You can pass it on when another golfer hits a tree. There is a snake for a three putt, a camel for a sand trap, a fish for water etc.
I play the Woodstock Open once a year at a municipal course. The cashier asks if I'm a resident. I lie. I’m an ex-resident. I save $7. I play awful, costing me $10 in animals and I lose my self respect. Ok God, no more cheating.

"Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel." Proverbs (20:17)

Can God Use the TV?

October 17

She said she was having trouble making her apartment cat proof. Her felines were scratching up the new furniture.
“I threw my hands up in the air and said, Lord I need help here to cat proof my apartment." When she returned to the living room she inadvertently stepped on the TV remote lying on the floor. The TV changed channels and her jaw dropped when she heard a woman talking about making your house cat proof.
.
“The voice of the Lord is powerful;
The voice of the Lord is full of majesty." (Psalm 29: 4)

God Sends Us a Map

October 16

When we were moving to Sarasota a pastor in Hartford wrote the name of a Christian couple to contact when we arrived. We didn’t.
In Florida, an attorney says, "My wife and I are helping some folks start a church." He hands me a calling card for the church with a map on the back. On Sunday ,after the service we meet the very couple that our former pastor had mention. We know this is the church where God wants us to be. When a note didn’t work He provided a calling card with a map.

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps."
(Proverbs 16:9)

Secret to a Successful Marriage

October 15

Joy stands in the doorway to our little office and leaning on the doorframe she says, "I feel overwhelmed." I rise and take her by the hand saying, "You know where we go when we feel overwhelmed?" We walk to the adjacent bedroom and kneel by the bed and pray.Often it has been Joy leading me to prayer.

Keeping God at the center of our marriage and keeping Him our focus and making each other a priority has made for a lasting and loving relationship.

“Let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” (Ephesians 5:33)

"I need Help Here"

October 14

"Do we have a plan for this faucet?" Joy asks passing the bathroom sink.
I can't get the handle off to see what is wrong. I pray silently, "I need help here."
I open the valve under the sink for hot water to wash my hands. When I'm through, without thinking, I turn the regular faucet to shut the water off. It Works! I stand there staring at the faucet. I Slowly turn the handle and the water comes out and then I turn it off again. It is working! How did it get fixed? It certainly isn’t anything I did except pray.

"With men this is impossible but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

More Prayers Answered

October 13

I can't find my checkbook. Had it earlier in the day. I'm getting really stressed and Joy suggests wisely that we pray about it. Moments later I return to my office and a voice in my head says attaché' case. I open it and there is the checkbook.

Joy is having nightmares and asks me to pray with her. We both ask God for help with this. The nightmares stop.

Today she says God spoke to her through Proverbs 1:33; "Whoever listens to me will dwell safely and will be secure without fear or evil." (or nightmares)

Voice Mail

October 12

Our surrogate son car salesman on voice mail saying he slammed the phone with such force at work that it breaks. His manager fires him.
While I pray for guidance on how to respond. I play the next message. It’s the same voice but only this time his tone is normal. God answers my prayer for guidance by sending me chapter and verse in the voice of the person seeking help.

"I found what I was looking for in the One Minute Pocket Bible for Business Professionals." Our friend reads:

" Oh my God I trust in you,
Let me not be ashamed; Let not my enemies triumph over me." (Psalm 25:2)

Johnson's Bench

October 11

We call it Johnson’s Bench. It sits in a cemetery in Bloomfield Ct. On its stone face is this inscription:
“Sit ye here at sunset and dusk
Far from the maddening crowd
With this peaceful tranquility
Commune with God.”

Joy and I do that. In the fall the valley below becomes a sea of colors and then shadows as the sun sets behind a ridge. Thank you Mr. Johnson for providing this bench. Thank you Lord for this moment in time.

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”
(Matthew 24:35)

Answering a Call

October 10

She has terminal cancer. Something says talk with her now.
My sister listens intently but bristles when I read, “the righteous fear God.”

“I always had a problem with needing to fear God,” she protests. I say quickly, “Think of fear as respect.” (Where did that come from?) "Oh I can accept that," she says. We continue.

She recites the suggested prayer asking Jesus to be her Lord and Savior.

Over dinner that evening my nephew tells me that ten years earlier he prayed by her bedside, “Lord don’t take her until she is yours.”
(The Lord honored his prayer and took his mother six weeks later.)

“In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:6)

Ballons

October 9

I saw a new community church in Florida use balloons to create a cheerful approach.
There were directional signs with balloons bobbing in the gentle breeze. More balloons lead up to the doors. Every kid loves to see a balloon including the kid in each of us. By the time people get to the front door they are in a mood to celebrate with those inside singing praises to the Lord.
What a way to begin a worship service.

"Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples!
Shout to God with the voice of triumph!
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our King, sing praises!" (Psalm 47: 1,6)

The Final Seinfeld Episode

October 8

Although we had stopped watching, the hype lured us to view the last Seinfeld show.
The episode was surprisingly serious. Jerry and his friends are tried and convicted for their antics and not being sensitive to the needs of others. The characters, put in jail, don't get it.

What will be the last episode of my life. I know I will be found guilty of being judgmental and insensitive to others. But my judge will be fair and forgiving. I’ll bet my life on that.

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1John 1:9)

Crowded Empty Nesters

October 7

To the world, Joy and I are empty nesters, yet there is a crowd under our roof.There's Molly, which is my endearing name for Joy. Molly is also the name of her cloth rabbit that she claims jumped off a store shelf one day right into her arms. She has a witness.

There are Punkie, Mouse, Slob, Ernie and the powder fairy, no explanations offered. There are Karl, the controller and Mary Ann, the manipulator. We sent them away to live unhappily everafter.

However, our focus is to keep God in the center of our marriage that fills our house with the right kind of love.

"Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate." (Matthew 19:6)

Tree Fort Secrets

October 6

It was 8' x 8' with screened windows on three sides and a full size door. The fort could sleep four boys comfortably. No adults or girls allowed except by special invitation. It was a place to trade secrets and make plans. The former occupants of that tree fort are all grown now with homes of their own. The tree fort is gone too, only the two elms remain. Whatever was said there is at best a faint memory but it is not a secret.

"For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." (Luke 8:17)

Quotes from My Journal

October 5
Received by E-Mail:

"When the request isn’t right, God says no
When the time isn’t right, God says Slow
When we aren’t right, God says Grow
When everything is right. God says Go.” Unknown
* * * *
“God speaks in the language you know best-often not through your ears but through your circumstances.” Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore most gladly I will rather
boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Cor 12:9)

Stand-in-the-Gap

October 4

A million men gather on the Mall in Washington D.C. on this day (1997) to humble themselves before their God.
We find a place to sit 500 yards from the main stage. It is 6:30 a.m.. The event starts at 1 p.m. It is a moving to see so many men from all over this nation arriving to Stand in the Gap. One speaker says, "Most assemblies on this mall demand rights. We are here to confess our wrongs." We need to go back.

" If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land."
(2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT)

The Ultimate Question

October 3

It is the most important conversation recorded in the Bible. Give a listen.

Martha: "Lord if you had been here my brother (Lazarus) would not have died. But even now I know whatever You ask of God, God will give you."

Jesus: "Your brother will rise again."

Martha: "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection in the last day.”

Jesus- "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me though he may die, he shall live.”

Then Jesus asks the question we all eventually have to answer.

“Do you believe this?” (John 11:21-26)

Joy's Golf Shot

October 2

The first hole at the Blue Rock Executive Golf Course on Cape Cod is 90 yards. You can see the green from the waiting area. It is crowded and Joy prays, "Lord just let me hit the ball." It is quiet. Whack!
The ball bounces in front of the green and rolls up to within a few feet of the cup. There is applause. Joy turns and curtsies.
Joy taps in for a birdie- more applause. She bows and says, "That's it, It’ll never get better than this; I retire from golf." And she did.

"I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." (Mark 11:24)

Old Car

October 1

The car won’t start. Ugh! We are going to Florida even if we have to jump-start this car all the way from Massachusetts. We stay with family in New Jersey. We ride to church in their van. During adult Sunday school I hear, "we need to pray for my brother-in-law's old car, that it will start and make it to Sarasota. The car starts the next three days and we arrive safely in Florida. Thank God for the privilege of prayer and a God who listens and acts.

The next day the car barely starts. I drive it directly to a repair shop.

"This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.”(1John 5:14)

Football Game

September 30

Seeing the cores under the bench our coach was determined to teach us that apples and football did not mix. He put us scrubs in the game. I was the quarterback who never played. I called the three plays I could remember. No gain. Ugh! Fourth down. I kicked a low line drive that hit one of their players and rolled crazily downfield. It was a live ball and we recovered it. Our ball! I still only knew three plays. I'm saved embarrassment. The first team trots back on the field.
We were having too much fun.

“Do not answer a fool to his folly, less you be like him.” (Proverbs 26:4)

Be Ready

September 29

We embraced in the kitchen and I remember thinking how muscular he had become. He was no longer a boy but at eighteen he had become a strong young man. I stood in the doorway and waved as he drove off. He tooted the horn. I lingered in the open doorway until the car was out of sight.

I can’t explain it, but I knew I would always remember this moment. I had no inkling it would be the last time I would see him. His spirit was called from this earth four days later.

“Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Luke 12:40)

Rainbows

September 28

My daughter, age eight, runs toward the brilliant rainbow descending into some trees. She is back quickly. “Did you find a pot of gold?” She shrugs, "Nope, just another campsite."

Twenty years later, visiting Hawaii together, she borrows my camera and walks off. When she returns to the beach I point out a rainbow. “That’s why I borrowed your camera, I wanted to surprise you when you get home."

She was my rainbow that day, for rainbows are signs of a special bond.

“I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.” (Genesis 9:13)

Hospital Visit

September 27

Before we enter the hospital Joy goes to an art shop and buy supplies.In her mother's hospital room family sit around the bed talking about medications and pain. Joy parts the curtains, tapes color paper to the walls and ties ribbons on the green plants. Within minutes that sterile room is warmed by sunlight and color and even the bedside conversation brightens.

God loves on us with light. You can’t see the beautiful colors in the dark.

"Then God said, 'let there be light'; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness." (Genesis 1:3-4)

Being Safe, Not Sorry

September 26

A young electrician gingerly touched the metal box with a screwdriver. I asked him why he did that since he had shut off the power. “I always check twice,” he said. "I was working on a big unit with my boss and he went to grab the cover and I said, ‘don’t you want to test it first?”
He turned to me and said, “Are you telling me how to do my job?"

He grabbed the cover with both hands and was electrocuted on the spot.”

We all need to learn that lesson.

“He who hates correction will die.”(Proverbs 15:10)

Two Words

September 25

She told Joy things weren't going well at work, her husband seemed distant, she was short with the kids etc. The two talked in the kitchen while I sat in the living room. When we were leaving I prayed, " Lord give me the words to say." He did.
I whispered two words in her ear.

Days later Joy reports her friend,” is full of life again and back loving her family.” She said she took your two words of advice; “Tell God!"

“Now a word was secretly brought to me, and my ear received a whisper of it.”
(Job 4:12)

Profound Moments

September 24

"I just had a thought,” Joy says,” God is saying to me 'hurry up and grow so I can teach you more. There is so much God wants me to know but I need to be ready.
* *
On the eve of leaving for Washington D. C. to gather with other men to Stand in the Gap,I open my Bible and read:

"May the God of endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 15: 5-6)

Invite Your Neighbor

September 23

My friend is excited, her neighbor finally attends our church service.

“I ‘m glancing sideways during the service to see how she is reacting. Her face seems non expressive.. During the message she stares at her feet and I’m confused.” The service ends and my friend asked her neighbor, “Is there anything you liked?” Her neighbor smiles, “Oh! I saw God’s love before the service started when your pastor walked in and kissed that boy in the wheelchair by the door.”

“Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.” (Matthew 18:5)

Reading the Bible in a Year

September 22

Cliff our men’s Bible teacher passed out an 81/2 x 11 sheet of paper divided into 367 little rectangles with four biblical references hand written in each box.
He said He was awakened at 3 A.M. and visualized finishing the Bible in a year by reading two chapters from the old testament, a psalm, a proverb and one chapter from the new testament everyday. The class ended for me a few weeks later when I moved to Florida. I have used Cliff’s outline daily for the past fifteen years.

"Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.”
(Proverbs 30: 5)

Live the Moments

September 21

Paraphrasing Thomas Merton, Joy says, "Live in the moment and see all that God has provided...it’s awesome." She asks how my day has been. I pause. Typically, another day has gone by and I have missed those precious moments. Keeping a daily journal helps as does reading the Bible, taking a hike or listening to a child. Joy listens to chants or other music she enjoys as part of her special moments. I think I'll go for a walk and notice what's around me.

“This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
(Psalm 118:24)

Flat Tire

September 20

I hear a familiar thump, thump coming from the car so I pull off to the side of the country road into an vacant lot. Yep! A flat. A young man, Ryan, offers me assistance. He is there to meet his boss, a carpenter.

" My boss was a carpenter once," I say adding, "I'm talking about Jesus.”
Ryan looks up at me, then continues what he is doing in silence. The next moment his boss drives up and I tell him what a Godsend Ryan is and I know who sent him.

"The Father knows the things you have need of before you ask him."
(Matthew 6:8)

Jean or Suits

September 19
Our pastor says the essential ingredient for an authentic Biblical community is "the presence of the Holy Spirit. Then people live in oneness and love. All else is artificial barriers...like different races, like dungaree people, the suit people, the ear ring people, its all artificial."
“Here there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, slave nor free, but Christ is all, and in all. Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you, so you must also do." (Colossians 3:11-12)

Share the Hope

September 18

It has been a week since the horrific events of September 11 when America was attacked by terrorists. The country is still trying to pick its sanity out of the ashes.
Our small group shares feelings ranging from depression and fear to outrage.
“What can we be doing as individual Christians?” someone asks. We are quiet.
A woman responds, “We can share why we have hope. I’m calling my neighbors.”

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.”
(1 Peter 3: 14-15)

Is that You God?

September 17

How do I know when a thought or message is from God? When it is not?
How can I be sure? When I ask the Lord for direction how do I know the response is from God and not the great deceiver? These questions remained until I was shown a simple way to test if the Spirit bringing the thought is of God. I have found that this test works quite well.

“By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not from God. (1 John 4:2-3)

Healing Power

September 16

At seven she awakes, walks to the bathroom and a minute later I hear a crash and a loud thud. I literally have to push her body along the floor with the door to get in to help her. She is shaking. Later the doctor says it looks like flu. I pray for healing. She props herself up in bed for a cherry pop and God provides a phone call from our youngest daughter to cheer her.
More prayer, several bottles of ginger ale and many pops, God heals Joy. I didn't even get a mild version of what she had. Praise the Healer!

"The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up."(James 5:15)

Parking Ticket

September 14

This morning I drive downtown for a breakfast meeting. There are two parking spaces on the street near the hotel. I take the one nearest the corner so I can get out quickly.

When I return less than an hour later there is a ticket on my windshield. I parked in a no parking area and the quarters I had put in the meter were for the parking space in front of me.

A friend says, " Don’t fuss over it, or it will you cost more than the amount on the ticket." That wise tip is 2,000 years old.

"Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:21)

French Class

September 13

I had completed all my credits at the university except four years proficiency in one foreign language. I had two in French years ago. I attended summer school and told the visiting professor my situation. He advised a tutor, one of his graduates.

The last week the tutor had me translate the same four pages until I got it right.
The dreaded day arrived. I opened the final exam and stared in disbelief. The passages to be translated were the same two documents I had worked on all week. It was a gift. A blessing from God.

“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.”
(Proverbs 10:22)

Special Moments

September 12

We are looking for kindling. My son,age4,runs back and hugs my leg. Looking up with a big smile he says, "Dad isn't this fun picking up sticks, just you and me?"
My teen daughter beckons, "Dad you have to see this." I join her astronomy class at the top of Talcott Mountain. A chill runs up my back as I look into the scope and clearly see Saturn and its rings glowing like a toy top in space. These memorable moments I consider encounters with God.

Any parent holding a baby for the first time must feel an encounter with our Creator. How about you?

“Come behold the works of the Lord."(Psalm 46:8)

Attack on America

September 11

This is the day there was a deliberate attack on America. We are shocked.
That evening I join others in church. The first prayer isn’t for the victims or their families (although that would come later) it is for repentance. Is this a wake up call for America to stop worshipping idols? (Like money and power) What about all the people killed? Then I read what Jesus said in Luke.

“Those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem. I tell you, no: but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:4-5)

First Love

September 10

The visiting pastor thought, "I can give a better sermon than this." He listened as the older man listed indicators of a cold heart.
1. No delight to be in God's presence,
2. No desire to be with other believers,
3. Decrease longing for God's word,
4. Less desire to give or serve God
5. Reluctant to tell others about God.

Then the young pastor realized those indicators described him. He shared this talk with his own flock asking us to recommit. We did.

"You have forgotten your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first." (Revelations 2:1-5)

Church Camp

September 9

The real purpose of church camp was to teach young boys about Jesus. I recall one moment. The teacher used a beaker full of a red liquid to represent our sinful self. “This is what happens when we ask Jesus into our lives to forgive our sins,” he said as he poured something into that beaker. The red disappeared instantly. That was cool to an eleven-year old, yet it would be forty years before I fully understood and accepted what that teacher was illustrating to boys that morning.

“Truly I say to you, except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)

Soft and Hard Putty

September 8

The preacher came down the aisle holding two cans of putty, one contained putty which, had hardened after exposure to the air and the other was a new can that contained soft pliable putty.

"When our hearts are open we are pliable and God can mold us like clay but when our hearts are neglected they become hard.” I need to give up what I think I am and let God mold me into what He intends me to be.

Jeremiah said only with God's help can we be softened. Jeremiah said God told him, “When you search for Me you will find Me; if you seek Me with all your heart!”
(Jeremiah 29:13.)

A very Special Day

September 7

This is a very special day for Joy and me. Pastor Pat baptizes us in our lake. We both emerge from the water shivering but it is not from the coolness of the water. We praise the Lord while we huddle together at the water’s edge draped in towels. We are all trembling with excitement and for good reason.

"He who believes and is baptized will be saved." (Mark 16:16)
"Indeed I baptize you with water unto repentance but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 3:11)

Family Mystery

September 6

My grandfather had come to help my dad repair the front porch but after one day Papa "just knew" he had to go home. Dad drove ‘Papa’ to the bus station.
The next day the deadly hurricane of 1938 hit the R.I. cost. All the phone lines were down so dad drove to Tiverton to find the bridge to Portsmouth was gone. He rented a boat. On Papa’s road all the houses were crushed or gone, except one. Papa had boarded up the windows and all were safe.
What had urge for my grandfather to return home? He didn’t try to explain it.

“Whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure without fear of evil.”
(Proverbs 1:33)

Power of Prayer

September 5

Never underestimate the power of prayer.
A granddaughter in Connecticut, who has had diabetes since she was two, is rushed to the hospital. The teenager doesn’t respond to treatment and is listed as critical.
I call a niece in Spokane Washington for prayer. I pray and prepare to fly from Florida to Hartford. The next day my son calls. Jessica is doing so well the doctors are talking about letting her go home.

My niece calls from Spokane and before I can tell her the good news she says, “I have been praying most of the night for Jessica to be healed and to go home by the weekend.”

"If you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14)

Dealing with Anger

September 4

We are in the house, voices raised. Joy yells, "pray." We both kneel. I reach out to hold her. She pulls back and snaps, "don't touch me, I don't even like you now." She demands, “Jesus we can't handle this, we need You now!" Her arms come around me. The anger subsides and our voices are now soft. We forgive each other. God answers knee-mail.

"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another; even as Christ forgave you, so you must do. (Colossians 4:13)

A child's Example

September 3

It’s time to leave the church fair. My three-year-old grandson wants to sit in the driver's seat of the fire truck-again.I carry him screaming and kicking to his stroller.
Joy leans over him and says, "Tommy calm down.” He stiffens and shudders a couple of times, wiped the tears from his eyes and softly repeats, "Tommy calm down." He takes Joy's hand and they walk to our van.

Later Joy says "I have never seen a child get in touch with himself like that, the Spirit was with him

“I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." (Luke 18:17)

Encouraging Words

September 2

Joy and I met and later were married in the First Church of Christ in Wethersfield, Ct.. Since then many of life’s happiest and saddest moments have been connected with this 360-year old church,
For many years every Sunday service began with the minister quoting Isaiah.

“Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.”
(Isaiah 40:31)

Every Parents Nightmare

September 1

This is the day I receive the call every parent fears. It is my former wife and she is hysterical. Our youngest child, Steven, age 18 has died in a house fire. The world stops. I’m numb. Tears flow freely.
For many nights after the funeral, I tried to respond to the cards and notes. One night I threw down my pen dropped to my knees and cried out to God. That was the night my Shepherd took this broken lamb in His arms, coddled me and whispered in my ear, “Here I am.” You can count on Him.

"You shall call and the Lord will answer; You shall cry and He will say Here I am." (Isaiah 58:9)

"Will Work for Food"

August 31

Ever see a person with a cardboard sign that reads, "will work for food?"
I ask, “Does your sign mean what it says, will you work for food?” He says yes. I drive him to my house and he mows my lawn. He is desperate for money to pay the rent and to buy food for his wife and child. He has some leads for work but nothing has come through.I pay him in cash, not food, and drive him to his neighborhood. We are both blessed this day.

"He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he." (Proverbs 14:21)

Free Lunch

August 30

The preacher held up a paper bag asking, “There is a gift in here who wants it?” John, who has cerebral palsy, is the first to respond. In the bag is a gift certificate to a restaurant. The preacher makes the point that salvation is like this gift; you have to receive it.

The next day John is eating his free lunch with such joy that a couple tell the waitress they want to pay for his meal. Later another couple does the same. Who said there is no free lunch? John had three.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves; it is a gift of God not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Early Sign of Fall

August 29

"What do you mean, the change in green. Isn't green, ah--green?" I protest.
My wife explains that as the chlorophyll production slows the greens become muted, a sure sign fall is coming. I hadn't noticed the "change of greens " before but then I’m the last to notice a pregnancy, or that the living room carpet has changed. But I do notice the change of green now.

Change is all part of God's plan. We should embrace it and live each moment fully.

"To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.”
(Ecclesiastes 3: 1)

Fire

August 28

FIRE!. The word yells at you. It demands action.

Our nine year old son announced there is a fire in the woods. "Call the fire department." "Where are Pat and Steve?" "At the fire!" "Let's go!"
We run up the hill behind the cottage. It is steep--and long. "I smell it." "I see it.” Finally at the top we spot two boys with blackened faces, one holds a charged shirt. A circle of flames 10 feet in diameter is growing. Thank God there isn't a breeze. Finally firemen, who panted up the same hill with back pumps, douse the flames.

"But I have trusted in your mercy;
My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.
I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.” (Psalm 13:5-6)

A good lesson

August 27

I sit in a park and read my Bible. A woman with two girls in the play area says, “Tell me in what book do you find the Tower of Babel? Oh I can look it up later.” I leave surprised by her question. I find it in Genesis. Men decide to build a tower to become famous. In case I don’t get it, the commentary says, "We should glorify God, not build towers (riches) to get our self worth, which become more important than God." (NIV)

“Its name is called Babel, because there the Lord confused the language of all the earth; and from there the Lord scattered them abroad over the face of all the earth." (Genesis 11:9)

Epitath

August 26

What would you want written on your tombstone? Gino says; "his passing this way made a difference." I remember this because less than a year later, Gino died of a heart attack. From the overflow eclectic crowd at his funeral and from the things that were said I knew that his “passing this way had made a difference” in a lot of people's lives including mine.
I know now it doesn't matter what is on my tombstone. Men will write that. What counts is what God says. I pray it will be something like:

"Well done good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21)

Hot August Day

August 25

"I had no idea why I bought four bottles of water," Joy tells me, "one bottle would have been enough for the trip home. Something just told me to buy four."
The bottles sit in a bag while she drives down the Mass. Pike to exit 9 for Sturbridge. "As I approach the toll station, I notice a family of four sitting by the side of the road with a dog. They are beat. I stop and share my water. All are thirsty, especially the dog.

“Whoever shall give a drink to one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no way lose his reward.”(Matt 10:42)

Peppy's War Story

August 24

My tent mate that summer at camp was "Peppy" our chef. who was a World War II vet. He told a story that would make Ernie Pyle smile. "We were fighting in France and were told to prepare positions for the night in a hedge row we had just occupied.

I smelled coffee so a buddy and I followed our noses. We came upon three Germans sitting next to a pot of coffee and a machine gun. We stared at each other. One German poured a little coffee in each of our cups. We backed slowly then ran to our unit. We returned in force but they were gone.”

"I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matthew 5:44)

Agape' Communion

August 23

She excitedly tells me that at the last minute she was asked to serve communion at the women's retreat. She knew that she wasn’t ready, but God was. “ We had an agape' communion. We were all in tears.Susie served the bread and I offered the wine. We were remembering Jesus and what he did at the Last Supper.”

“He took the bread, gave thanks, and broke it and gave it to them saying ‘This is my body which is given for you: do this in remembrance of me. Likewise after supper he took the cup saying, ‘This cup is the new testament in my blood. Which is shed for you.” (Luke 22: 19,20)

Handling Stress

August 22

We are moving and boxes are all over the living room. I fear two things I seek are in one of the taped boxes. “Let’s stop and pray right now,” Joy says.. “Lord we seek your help here. We need to find the work folder and the gift certificate or give him peace about it.”
I feel my stress subside. I thank her for her love. Still on my knees my I spot an open box under the divan. Inside is my business folder and the gift certificate.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

Yelling

August 21

We receive a call that a couple we know is having a violent argument in front of their children. By the time Joy and I arrive the husband has left the house and the wife is still shaking from anger and fear. The confrontation started when one of the parents yelled uncontrollably at a child who refused to finish her breakfast. The other parent jumped to the defense of the daughter and a yelling match ensued.

How different things can be when we follow the wisdom of the Proverbs.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)

You Can't Outgive God

August 20

Yesterday I finally broke down and bought a new printer for my computer to print these pages in draft. It cost $183 with tax.
For the next four hours I’m printing draft text or notes for this project. I finish and get online to check the stock market. A stock I purchased the day before is up two points. I sell it. My profit on 100 shares is exactly $183. Is this Divine payback for finally being obedient and buying that printer? I think so! Now I owe God 10%.

We can't out-give God. Try it.

"Give generously for your gifts will return to you later." (Ecclesiastes 11:1)

Persistence

August 19

Dickey needed to pass lifesaving to be an Eagle Scout. He was handicapped with slow speech and weak legs. All the carries required strong kicking power. On his last day I said to Dickey, "I don't care how you do it. Bring Jim (my assistant) back,” He wrapped his legs around Jim and while on his back flapped his powerful arms. Jim's head and shoulders were out of water. It was smooth and quick. He met the test. God rewards honest persistence. Dickey was the real teacher that summer.

"Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." (Galatians 6:9

Unconditional Love

August 18

My teacher told the third grade class my name meant “bald-headed monkey.” Laughter I ran home in a rage. I confronted my mom. “Your teacher is mistaken, you tell her your name means bald-headed eagle,” she said.
My teacher apologized and told the class.

A loving mother and a compassionate teacher had restored a boy’s self-esteem.
I didn’t fully appreciate my mom’s love for me until she was gone. I bet the Apostles felt the same way about Jesus.

God loves us so unconditionally that, “He gave His only begotten son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

100 Holes of Golf in a Day

August 17

It is a perfect day to play 100 holes of golf to raise funds for Christian charities. The object is to keep moving and finish. Each of us has raised pledges by the hole. I’m leaning on my putter when the ground gives way and swallows my club. I finish with a borrowed one. The golf pro suspects my old putter fell down the shaft of an old well.

At the awards breakfast there is a drawing and I win a new handcrafted putter. Now whenever I'm asked about my unusual looking putter, I say, "God gave me this putter. You see I was playing 100 holes of golf one day…"

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…" (James 1:16)

Reeling in Walter

August 16

Walter, Joy’s dad, and I are returning from lunch to the Soldier’s Home in Holyoke, Ma. We enter the chapel together. I read from "Would you like to Know God Personally?" There is a suggested prayer to receive Christ through faith. I ask if this is his desire? He nods and he repeats the prayer.

I call Joy who is still in Florida. I tell her and hear a gasp. “I can't believe this. God is wonderful. The last two days I have been picturing my dad standing before Jesus, head bowed, fidgeting and holding his fishing pole.” Praise God.

“Rejoice with me; I have found my sheep which was lost.” (Luke 15:6)

A Memorable Conversation

August 15

I love my son. For a time we tested each other. He was a "dead head" and I was a dull head. He had long hair, wore genes and smoked stuff. I had receding hair, wore a suit and drank scotch. We were both lost.
“I’m leaving school, I can always get a GED,” he says. I pray for the right words. ”An interviewer is going to see GED on your resume and a red flag will go up. You will have to explain these years,” I tell him. He quits school anyway.

A year later he says, “I am going back to school to get a regular diploma, a GED will be a red flag on my resume.” I quietly thank the Lord.

"Now go, I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." (Exodus 4:12)

How Do You Handle criticism?

August 14

Some people turn criticism into fuel to propel them forward. For me criticism is a brake, which slows me down.

I had a boss once who not only listened to me criticize a decision he had made but thanked me for it. I need to take a rebuke like that, learn from it and move on.
How do you handle criticism? Does it slow you or grow you?

"Rebuke a wise man and he will love you.
Give instruction to a wise man and he will be still wiser;
Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning." (Proverbs 8:31)

Quest for Manhood

August 13

Many men of our church have completed a 26- week study seeking authentic manhood designed by Robert Lewis. We have unpacked our past, looked at the present and submitted a plan for change. Now is the commencement. With wives and girl friends present sixty six of us are called by name and knighted by our pastor who rests a replica gallic sword on each shoulder.
He sends each man off on the rest of life's journey quoting what David said from his death bed to his son Solomon.

"Now go and be a man, keep the charge of your Lord to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes.”(1 Kings 2:2)

Plastic Snakes

August 12

Joy came home with a plastic snake.
Patti handed these out at our meeting telling us, 'I was murmuring and complaining to the Lord today so I bought these snakes to remind me that I shouldn't be doing that.' One-by-one the members present admitted murmuring today sp we all received a plastic snake."

"And the people murmured against God and Moses: 'why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and our souls loathe this worthless bread.' So the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people; and they bit the people and many of the people of Israel died." (Numbers 21:5-6)

Guide Dog Training

August 11

West Hartford business center is a small version of a big downtown where
Fidelco trainers walk their guide dogs.

I am behind a trainer and his dog as they arrive at an intersection. A car arrives at the stop sign.. It is a standoff. I watch. Nobody moves. Finally the trainer gives in and waves the driver on. The motorist's mouth is moving as he drives by. I can only guess what words he uses to express his feelings. I shouldn't judge the driver who obviously is making a misjudgment of his own.

"Judge not that you be judged." (Matthew 7:1)

Scar on My Arm

August 10

It was a first date. I knew she was impressed as we unloaded the picnic basket and spread things out. The concert started and I got out the bottle of wine and real wine glasses. I even brought a corkscrew. I was feeling proud of myself.
I knelt and held the bottle with one hand and the corkscrew with the other. As I was cutting through the paper that covers the cork I slipped and the jagged corkscrew sliced up my arm. I bled profusely. We never dated again and I still have the scar which reminds me of that moment.

“Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)

High School Reunion

August 9

Signs pointed the way. I stood in the doorway, staring at old people. I wonder when we leave this world if there will be a reunion of souls that were in the same earthly class? Will the Heavenly reunion be just peers or will it include parents, mentors, teachers, bosses, children, and of course high school classmates?

Will I be bored? Will I be shocked? Will I be invited? I'll be happy just to be there.

"So the last will be first, and the first will be last. For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 20:16)

Missed Oppoetunity

August 8

The man says, "You certainly model your faith and you don't shove it down somebody's throat. How did you get to where you are?"

Its an invitation and I blow it. I had let me get in the way. I had tried to tell him how I got to where I was rather that tell him how the Lord brought me to where I am today. I should have quoted Paul.

"I have been crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."(Galatians 2:20)

A Bright Light

August 7

Ron held the hand of his younger brother while in a coma in a hospital. "All I could do was groom him. and ask God where my brother was. There was a flash of light, so bright I dropped his hand. Then I knew he was with God and a peace came over me."
Don, struggling with tears, said he was beset by pain imagining what his little brother must have gone through just before the impact of the head on crash that killed him. “A bright light, temporarily blinded me and I heard in my head, ‘Don't worry I took him before the impact."

”You shall cry, and He will say, Here I am.” (Isaiah 58:9)

Proverbs 31 & 32

August 6

To me Joy is a Proverbs 31 wife .She makes me her priority in all that she does.
She is a woman that fears the Lord and I praise her for all she does.

There should be directions for a Proverbs 32 husband. Come to think of it there are. Paul articulates them in his letter to the Ephesians.

“Husbands, love your wives even as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for it. So husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies .H e who loves his wife loves himself.” (Ephesians 5:25,28)

A Precious Gift

August 5

Joy exclaims, "Oh! I had the most wonderful feeling when I was in the mall today; you know how you feel when you first love, like the butterflies you get. I had them again today for you and I said to myself; I get to go home to him today."

Wow what a loving thing to feel and share. Truly a loving wife is a gift from God. I am blessed.

"Houses and riches are an inheritance from fathers,
But a prudent wife is from the Lord." (Proverbs 19:14)

Family Reunion

August 4

It is August and that means family reunion at Briggs Beach in Little Compton R.I.

There is something special about a family reunion and seeing each other and the children who grow so quickly into little people. Once a year our various busy lives intersect for a day. We share and care, not because we know each other well but because we are family. God wants us all to love each other, simply because we are all family, His family.

"A new commandment I give to you, love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. (John 13:43)

Barred from Prison

August 3

Our prison services were suppose to start in February. I had April. I asked people to pray for me and they did. We never got into the Prison. The clearances hadn’t come through. We prayed for the men through the barbed wire fence.I was reassigned to December. A call in late November cancelled our group.
God didn't want me in that prison. Why? Wasn't I properly prepared? Wasn't my heart right? A year later I heard God’s reply, "You never asked Me." It wasn’t His will that I go, it was mine.

“For without Me you can do nothing.” (John 51:5)

Deserted Island

August 2

We paddle a skiff to a small beach and walk up the trail to the huts. Clothes hang on racks, two smoldering fires and chickens mill about but not a soul in sight. It is eerie. Now I have an inkling how missionaries must feel going to a remote area to share the Gospel. Their faith must be bigger than their fears. Is mine?

“Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and know I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”(Matthew 28:19-20)

Baseball Lesson

August 1

The coach is chiding his third baseman.
A grounded heads for third and the baseman, thoroughly rattled, misplays the ball. As the inning ends the player storms off the field and slams his glove down.
The catcher tells him “cheer up, the coach only rides those he thinks have potential. It is his way of trying to bring the best out of you.” The third baseman lifts his head.
God is like that coach. He is trying to bring out our best. He knows what is inside. He put it there.

“For whom the Lord loves He corrects; even as a father the son in whom he delights.” (Proverbs 3:11)

Where Was It?

July 31
I ask in the van if she has her cell phone. She returns to the house to look for it.
She is back in less than half a minute with the phone in her hand and a quizzical look.

“ Where was it,” I ask, relieved?

“I don’t know,” she says softly.

“What do you mean you don’t know?”

“I went into the kitchen and I didn’t see it, I prayed and then I’m holding the phone. It was like someone handed it to me.”

“Let your request be made known to God and the peace of God which surpasses
all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 4:6-7)

I G Ispection

July 30

Try keeping anything metal from rusting in Panama. It is impossible. The Inspector General team arrived headed by a Captain I had served with a year earlier. I told him my personal evaluation was riding on the weapons inspection.

The captain took over inspecting the weapons himself. Later he made an oral report to the brass. When he got to the weapons section he turned to my company commander and said; "Captain, I congratulate you and your men for having the best looking weapons in the battalion."

“… with God all things are possible." (Mark 10:27)

Lost Swimmer

July 29

I‘m 17 and the waterfront director at a Boy Scout camp. The volunteer lifeguards had left the water for lunch. My assistant reports there is still a nametag on the board.I dispatch him to the mess hall while I start a lost swimmer drill.

On my fourth dive I see the body several feet below me. I gasp, lose my air and re- surface. My heart is pounding. I take a deep breadth and dive straight down, arms extended. As I near the bottom the body is a towel draped over some rocks. When I surface my assistant is walking on the dock and tells me our missing person is at the dinning hall. My reaction is how heaven feels about a new believer.

"Rejoice with me for I have found my sheep which was lost." (Luke 15:6)

Seek Counsel

July 28

A small plane plunges into the dark ocean off Martha's Vineyard claiming the lives of the pilot, John F. Kennedy, Jr., his wife, Carolyn and her sister, Lauren Bessette.
JFK Jr. left for the island that night despite predictions of poor visibility. A reporter who is also a pilot concludes JFK Jr. fell victim the young pilot's disease he called, "gotta-get-there-itis."

I ask God, what am I supposed to learn from all this? The reply comes quickly.

"Without counsel plans go awry, but in the multitude of counselors they are established."(Proverbs 22:1)

Tommy on the Beach

July 27

“Grampy, want to go for a walk on the beach?” What I don’t realize is what a four-year-old means by a walk on the beach. To him it means racing down the beach looking back, smiling and off again. This goes on for several minutes. Finally he stops and starts running back towards me, arms extended. I throw my arms up and run towards him. As he draws near I crouch and he leaps into my waiting arms, squealing with delight. What joy.

“ These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” (John 15: 11)

Angels in a Life

July 26

My thanks to these special angels:
An orthopedic nurse who encouraged me for ten years so I wouldn’t be crippled;

The priest who stopped and taped a leaky fuel line in my car on a hot summer day;

The unknown angel who awakened me just as I was drifting off the road;

Thank you Lord for sending these helpers and others in my time of need.

Who have the angels been in your life?

“He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways."
(Psalm 91:11)

How Was Your Day?

July 25

Ok. The standard answer. I looked at my day again.

The car accident that almost happened, the call from a friend inviting me to something good, a hug and smile from my wife and a surprise call from a daughter.
There is food to eat, no aches or pains, and nothing dangerous to face. There is a meeting with a friend, a Bible to read, wild ducks to feed, a computer to use, music to hear, a comfortable bed and prayers to say. It’s not just an Ok day. It is a day blessed by GOD.

"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."
(John 10:10)

Specialist Johnson

July 24

Specialist Johnson worked in personnel when I was at the Officers Candidate School at Ft. Benning. I was from his hometown so he befriended me. On graduation day I wanted my first salute to come from Specialist Johnson so I could give him the traditional dollar. He saw me and waved. I said sternly, "Specialist is that the way you greet an officer?"

The look on his face was not friendly. He saluted, I returned it and handed him the dollar. Then he was all smiles.
Isn't God like that, making us humble ourselves first, then comes His blessings"

“There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24)

Under a Tree

July 23

Joy shares that, “When I am with God, I see myself in a pasture sitting under a tree with my pillow and baby blanket. When I am separated from God, I am somewhere on a hillside and I can’t get to the pasture.”
When she is agitated she focuses on herself and “Satan does a number of me.”

But when she lifts her troubles or concerns up in prayer “that is the moment that frees me. I’m off the hill and back under the shade tree again.”

“You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)

Roth's Example

July 22

Roth, who is in his seventies and has Parkinson’s disease told this story to our group. He is at the pool and a young girl swims to the ladder where he is standing.
" I thought because I am older and in my condition she should let me come down first. But she grabs the ladder,and lifts herself out of the water and swings by me into a wheel chair. It is then I see she has no legs. And I am thinking I’m handicapped.”

We all needed to hear Roth’s message.

"Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment."
(John 7:24)

Getting Out of a Cave

July 21

What do you do when your wife tells you she feels disconnected from you. I go into my cave to process,sulk and pray.
On this day I return home to a sweet embrace. Entering my office I see a love note from Joy on my swivel chair. It is a pencil drawing of a cave with two eyes peering out (me) and outside is a dancing piglet(her) trying to coax me out. I can honestly tell her that I am now out of my cave. How God has softened my heart and removed my hurt takes my breath away. Wow!

“O Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: for his mercy endures forever.” (Ps 136-1)