See You Later

December 30

“Everything will be fine you’ll see,” his mother said lovingly.
“But suppose the world does end,” the boy insisted, “I won’t ever 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)

(That's a deal friend. Travelling, see you early next year.)

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 go to the chapel for a candle light service. Leaving 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)

Christmas Eve Services

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.
By the 7:30 her voice is a little louder.
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)

Ice Breaker

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; “Tony Randall said he saved my life.”
Actually it was Barbara Bush who greeted me. 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," We agree, to find peace it starts with us.

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 19

The front page of The Hartford Courant has a picture of 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)

"Its 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 go wrong. He had misplaced 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 by an angel 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)

Why we have Hope

December 17

She 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)

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 heard 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 serve?

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

A Memorable Lesson

December 15

It is my big chance to do the midday café show, on campus radio. I am the disc
jockey and my own engineer. The hour goes well 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 my 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)

Christmas Presents

December 13

Every year this woman has raised funds and donated gifts to needy families. But this season she was feeling depressed over not selling her house and had no energy for anything.One weekend her house sold and on Monday her boss informed her that all the sales associates decided not to exchange Christmas presents but buy toys instead and donate them to ‘her project.’

She said, “It was God saying, Ok the 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)

Plan G

December 12

Our senior pastoer is being called out of the church but he doesn't know where he is going yet. He has resigned in obedient faith. When he and his wife told their children their oldest boy said, "But Dad there are no jobs out there."

Tonight that pastor peached on Plan G. (God's plan) We may begoing through plan a, then plan b etc...but its Plan G that matters. The Virgin Mary's plans changed in an instant when the angel Gabriel announced she would give birth to the Christ Child. Mary was troubled but responded:

"For no word from God will ever fail. I am the Lord's servant." (Luke 1:37-38)

Christmas Carols

December 11

There we were, about 20 strong including about eight young children, singing carols in the dining room of an assited 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."
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)

A Little Gift

December 10

As advisers to a handicapped facility we would sometimes learn of needs of the
individual residents. One lady wanted a special attachment for her apartment, which was not covered by financial assistance.I gave the director a small check to buy 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)

Freedom

December 9

“You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)
December ninth is Joy’s freedom day. On this day a spiritual sister helped her through The Steps To Freedom in Christ outlined by Neil T Anderson, author of The Bondage Breaker. “Now I know the truth, God loves me, I am His child,” she says. “God used this to open my eyes and ears to His truth.” In a symbolic ceremony Joy gave up those things keeping her in bondage from knowing the freedom that God offers all of us.

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”(James 4:7)

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.” 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)

Making Plans, Taking Steps

Week of December 5

I began preaching when I was twenty years old in a little church in Neapolis, Ohio. I was married that same year. Marilyn and I thought we would stay in that town all of our lives.

It was our hometown, our children were born there and our parents lived nearby. I said, “ I will never live in the city.” Be careful with the “never’s.”

In 1964 the Elders from North Highlands Church of Christ on Archer Avenue in Fort Wayne were determined that we were to come to this church. We prayed over it and felt God’s call, so we moved to Fort Wayne.

The Church flourished and grew and helped spawned Christ Church in Georgetown. We soon had outgrown our building so we made plans to build a million dollar building in the suburbs of Fort Wayne: North Highlands Community.

We went to a bank that promised financing, we had plans drawn and we held a groundbreaking ceremony with the mayor there. There was even a picture in the newspaper and a contractor on the site. That year, 1973, was a severe downturn of the economy. When we went to the bank to obtain our loan for 800 thousand dollars we were told the money is no longer available. What do you do?

We had made plans and promises. What was God thinking? What did God want us to do?

I said, “We are going to prayer.” I had heard about early morning praying in Korea. I said, “we're going to go to prayer at 5:30 in the morning. and we're going to pray until we get an answer.”

That went on for six weeks. You know how early 5:30 in the morning is when you start praying at that hour for six weeks, seven mornings a week? I'm a morning person but I was never consistently up that many mornings, going to bed later every night.

One morning following prayer, I was with a group of pastors who heard the mayor of our city, Ivan Lebamoff , speak and challenge each of us to look at the downtown area of Fort Wayne, where everyone was leaving at that time in 1973. The mayor urged us to look at the downtown as a place of potential, of opportunity. God laid it on my heart to remember the empty church building at the corner of Broadway and Wayne, which had been the old Wayne Street Methodist Church.

That morning I went to that building, opened the door, went in, and I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There before me was the floor plan that we were going to build and still intact since1871. It was constructed of sturdy oak, had stained glass, a pipe

organ, a wood floor gymnasium, and a commercial kitchen. Altogether it was 48,00 square feet of usable building. For two hours I walked around in there with unbelief, arguing with God, saying, this can't be, how can we do this? I went home and I couldn't talk. Marilyn thought I had been in an some sort of accident.

That night as Marilyn and I walked I said, “Honey, I've dreamed a dream or seen a vision.”

After I shared with her my amazing discovery she said, “Bob I told you two weeks ago we should buy that building when we went past it.”

I hadn’t heard her but God did and the Broadway Christian Church was born.

About eighty families, approximately 300 people came with us from the suburbs to the city. The people who came interestingly enough were mostly the ones who came to Christ during my nine years at North Highlands. Our first service at Broadway Christian was held on January 6, 1974.

I began preaching on discipleship and what it means to seriously follow Jesus. I preached two and a half years on that theme. I preached for seven consecutive Sundays on repentance. I had never done that before in my life.

On one of those Sunday mornings our Church School superintendent came with his wife at his side weeping and he confessed he was a closet alcoholic. His Sunday School class with an elder leading them surrounded that man and vowed to stay with him until he was sober. That morning was a high water mark spiritually for the people knew then it was a safe place to confess sins.

I am retired from Broadway Christian now but we still live in Fort Wayne most of the year. I look back over 28 years at not only the growth in numbers (2,000 people and five services in two locations) but the organizations and churches that grew out of that one as we tried to be good disciples to our neighborhood and beyond.

It is obvious now what happened back in 1973 when the bank failed to give us a promised loan. God saved us from ourselves.

“A man’s heart devises his way; but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

Pastor Bob Yawberg
Fort Wayne, Indiana

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.
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, 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)

Grace and Mercy 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 interstate 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)

Every Day is a Gift

December 1

Another day to hear the birds sing,
A chance to see a colorful 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,
More time to laugh, linger and love,
Time to embrace the moment
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)

A Yellow Dot

November 30

While visiting a small Lutheran church in 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? How about putting one on your cell phone or I-Pod.

“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 Cuba is Cuber.
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)

The Hand

November 26

There it is! The shadow of a hand is on my bedroom floor. I scream as only an eight-yar-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. When she turned out the light again and the moon glowed on the floor the hand was gone.

I am thankful for a mother who showed her boy compassion.

“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14)

Thanksgiving

November 25

We pack up the kids, the hot dishes and slide off 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)

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)

Be a 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 drops the money off at the church office. The next day while rummaging through a desk. Joy found $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 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 Point

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 and Goliath

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 Italian Ice vendor is invited to the festival. The giant is not slain, just cut down to size. 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)

Pray without Ceasing

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, hours later.

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

Praise God for Life and 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)

Fear of Bridges

November 16

Time to face my fear of big bridges and trust God. The Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay looms in the distance.
I start up the main span “The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.” I’m shaking. “yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me.” My hands steady on the wheel, “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” I reach the highest point, “You prepare a table in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil.” The sky brightens. “My cup runs over.” God is faithful.Now I drive over big bridges like everybody else.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” (From Psalm 23)

Anniversary

Novermber 15

Its our Anniversary and we share cards at breakfast. The phone rings and Mr. A says he and his wifhave had an argument and she left the house. Before I hang up there is a knowck at the door. It is Mrs. A for Joy. That night we have the couple over for dinner. Hearing the complaints of that couple and the pain they are going through reminds us how blessed we are to have God at the center of our marriage.

That realization is a priceless anniversary present.

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

Do Not Be Afraid

Week of November 14

Several years ago I was going through a tough time and feeling a great deal of anxiety. Something happened that has been a source of comfort and courage ever since.

I need to say, right up front, that I have never practiced, nor do I agree with, what has sometimes been called “Bible roulette.” This is the technique
of seeking guidance from God by letting the Bible fall open at random, putting your finger on the page, and trying to interpret as a directive from
God the verse thus identified. On the other hand, in my personal devotions I will often select a passage to read as I feel led, or because I feel a need.

I must also say that the Bible I usually use for my devotional reading was, at the time I am referring to, still fairly new. It was not dog-eared from
use, nor did it naturally fall open to any particular passages.

The event is recorded in my journal. But it need not be, for it stands out in my mind with crystal clarity.

I was alone and feeling agitated. There seemed no end to my anxiety. I cried out, “O God, I am so tired of being afraid!” It wasn’t a formal prayer. It was a cry from the heart.

At that moment I felt an urge, an invitation, a desire to turn to Scripture. As I reached for my Bible, I felt a definite inclination to turn to the Old Testament. But nothing more specific had yet come to mind. I opened the Bible somewhere around the middle. The very first words my eyes fell upon were these: “...do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God...”

I was awestruck. I tried to reproduce the event, but it was soon obvious that my Bible was not automatically opening to Isaiah 41:10.

The skeptic may call it coincidence. But I am convinced that God was in that event, speaking precisely to my anguish through those words of Scripture. Thanks be to God.

Persh Parker
Billings, Montana

Copyright Thanks Be, First Church of Christ, Wethersfield, Connecticut.
Repreinted with permission.

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 ninety per cent. What a great deal.
Have I kept my part of the bargain? Have I thanked my Partner for my 90%?

“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 and wandered 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 over the fireplace.

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

Veterans Day

November 11
On this veterans day I am remembering Malcolm "Peppy" Daniels. In 1948 we were counsellors at a boy scout camp, he a disable vet from World War II was the chef and I,age 15, an apprentice on the waterfront.

He had been shot in the leg six times by a German Machine gunner."I thank God that guy was a trained gunner," he said, "or I wouldn't be here today." I didn't fully understand what he meant until several years later when I was in the army and received heavy weapons training. You are taught to fire in bursts of six rounds to maintain accuracy.

Thanks to all the veterans who put their lives on the line during war so we could enjoy our freedom today.

"Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for his friends."
(John 15:13)

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,” which I hand him.
“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 to God

November 9

The preacher list different pathways people take to feel close to God:
1. Relational…with other people
2. Contemplative- solitude ( My wife'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
What is yours? When do you feel close to God.
An appropriate scripture 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 our eighteen years there. It wasn’t until long after we moved that I thanked God for the bounty from those trees.

“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)

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.” "The meaning of life is to 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 ask 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)

Feeling Helpless

November 4

Joy feels upset with her dad until she talks with her daughter who works in the mental health field. “He’s not angry with you or the nurse. 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.”
We find an affordable rest home and Joy’s dad receives a warm welcome. Now he has a comfortable place to live

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

Give 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.

Over 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.”

He stares at me. I've crossed a line in our relationship. After some silence 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, “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 day was intended for me. I needed to make the right choices in my life. I was 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 nearly 20 years ago.

“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)

Memory and a Message

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.
Memory is a wonderful gift and I shouldn't take it lightly. Thank God for it.
Moses warned us of the consequences of forgetting.

“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 Day

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 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” and “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, then we see. 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. “We are in God’s hands now,” I whisper. The noise of the wind is loud. I thought gliding would be quiet. Joy gets her wish for a bird’s view of the 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)

PS This year for her birthday took her to the Holy Land Experience..the one in Orlando,Fl.Worth seeing if you haven't been. The reenactments are poignant.

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

"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 five siblings in a housing project. At 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,” he 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.

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

Rock Climbing

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? Ever wonder?
I read,” God is within you.” That's it. I imagine.I’m like 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 at 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)

Woodstock 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. 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)

God uses a 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 uses a Calling Card

October 16

When we were moving to Sarasota a pastor in Hartford wrote the name of a Christian couple to contact. We didn’t.
In Florida, over lunch 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)

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."

Voice Mail Answered

October 12

Our surrogate son car salesman on voice mail says he slams the phone with such force 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." He 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 and inscribed on its stone face
“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. The markers record the passage of human time while the trees indicate the change of the seasons,and the sunset another revolution of our planet.

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

Answering a Call

She is terminal. I'm prompted to talk with her now in her hospital room.
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, “Think of fear as respect.” (Where did that come from?) She recites the suggested prayer asking Jesus to be her Lord and Savior.

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

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

Balloons

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 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 Last Seinfeld Episode

October 8

Although we had stopped watching, the hype lured us to watch the last of Seinfeld.
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 the last episode of my life be like? 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)

Who is an Empty Nester

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 and the powder fairy, no explanations offered. There are Karl, the controller and Mary Ann, the manipulator. We sent them off to live unhappily together. However, it is our focus to keep God in the center of our marriage that fills our house with love.

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

Tree Fort

October 6

An 8' x 8' tree fort with screened windows on three sides, a full size door and space to sleep four boys comfortably, sits quietly now. No adults or girls allowed except by special invitation. It was a place to whisper secrets and make plans. The former occupants of that tree fort are all grown now with homes of their own. Whatever was said there is at best a faint memory but the secrets are no longer.

" 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.”
* * * *
“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.and the program starts at 1 p.m. It is moving to see so many men from churches 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 are also here to pray for each other and our nation.

" 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)

Trusting God

Week of October 3

It had been 16 years since I visited any gynecologist. I had no problems up until last year. I had been having irregular bleeding and heavy periods. I had several tests.... and they found that I had fibroids and a cyst on my ovary. My doctor suggested in November a full hysterectomy.

This would be my 5th surgery where they would be cutting my abdomen so I would have to sign a paper that I understand that there is more risk involved. I asked about keeping my ovaries so that I wouldn’t go into full menopause. My doctor said given my age and the cyst (that may require surgery to be removed in the future) she recommended taking everything.The surgery was scheduled for January 30.

I struggled with this until the day before the scheduled surgery. I had asked the Lord over and over again if I am doing the right thing. To be honest with you I was afraid. It was a pride issue also. I didn’t want anyone to know, because it could look as though I was weak or defeated. I chose not to tell anyone except my family.

I had these thoughts that were not of God that were telling me that things would not go right and I would die on the operating table. I was upset and I was up late at night worrying. I picked up the Bible looking for an answer. I went to several church services seeking solace but the negative thoughts just continued worse than ever. It was like the more positive I received the more negative I became. This whole thing was overwhelming. Pastor always says that the battle is in the mind. Let me tell you what was going on in my head was a war.

I had decided that I would go to women's group and afterwards I would call the doctor to tell her I decided to delay the surgery. But when I went to women's group Sandy who has always been such a comfort to me and my family, praying for us etc., came up to me and told me she was happy to see me there and asked me if I would be now able to come on Tuesdays. I told her what was going on and she began to talk and I knew the Lord was speaking to me through her because a peace and comfort came on me. The mental attacks immediately stopped. Sharon prayed for me and I was relaxed and knew what I had to do and it was right. I would have the operation.

Everything went extremely well in surgery and I was up walking in 8 hours, I went home two days later. When I was in the hospital I had such comfort knowing that Jesus was there with me. The nursing staff commented on how fast I was up and walking and I knew that it was the Lord giving me the ability to get around so quickly.

When I returned a week later to have the staples removed my doctor shared what she didn’t want to tell me on the telephone. She said they tested everything that was taken out and found that I had cancerous cells in the body of my uterus. This is an extremely fast growing cancer. Every time the uterus sheds, the cancer grows and starts spreading into the blood. The recommended procedure for this is a full hysterectomy. What they found was that the cancerous cells were still intact and were concentrated in one area of the uterus.

My doctor told me that I was a lucky woman that someone was watching over me. I said I know God is. She said you are cured. She kept saying that over and over. We cried and held one another.

My doctor had no idea that the cancer cells were there. I asked her why it wasn't seen on all the tests. She said that where it was located no test would have detected it. I cried even more. If I had not had this operation I would be looking at 5-6 months, that’s all.

If my doctor had not taken my ovaries she would have had to go back in and get them. When cancer is present the best operation is actually cutting your abdomen (what I had) because when they do the other surgery there is a risk of dropping cells.

What an awesome God we have. Not only did He heal me of something that would have killed me but also He didn't even let me know that I had it and my family never had to go through that worry and anguish. I do not have to know everything. I just have to trust Him. No glory can be given to any test or doctor but only to God because He knew and no one else did. I am so grateful words can’t describe.

Jackie Harmon
Richmond ,Virginia

The Ultimate Question

October 3

There is a powerful conversation between Martha and Jesus that puts it all right on the line. Martha says, "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 says, "Your brother will rise again."
Martha states: "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 inches of the cup. There is applause. Joy turns and curtsies.Joy taps in for a birdie- more applause. She bows and on the next tee says, "That's it, It’ll never get better than this; I retire." 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)

An 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 Sarasota.Prayers answered. 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 we recovered it. Our ball! I still only knew three plays.
The first team trotted back onto 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)

Miracle Births

September 28

“It is a miracle that they all survived. It is a miracle any of us survive, “ my daughter said. One of her cousins had triplets born six weeks prematurely. They weighed less than seven pounds together. My daughter had weighed more than seven pounds when she was born. I remember peering through the nursery window while a nurse held her to the glass. My first thought was thank God she is all there. I was looking at a miracle. I knew it. Babies are a gift.

“You are of God. little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

Important Lesson

September 27

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 this lesson.

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

Hospital Visit

September 26

Before we enter the hospital Joy goes to an art shop. 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)

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 advise; “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)

A Guest at Church

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 awkwardly, “Is there anything you liked?” Her neighbor smiles, “Oh! I saw God’s love before the service even 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)

Read 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 was awakened at three 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 more than 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 Moment

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 quiet 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)

A 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 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. I know who sent him.

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

Jeans and Jacket People

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 Jeans people, the jacket 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

A week after the horrific events of September 11 when America was attacked by terrorists our country was 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 or voice 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)

The Sick and Prayer

September 16

At seven my wife Joy 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. After 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)

Conversation with a Porpoise

September 15

I never met a porpoise I didn’t like.

My first personal meeting with a porpoise outside of an aquarium was in waters off Panama. I was out on the bowsprit of a fishing boat and one swam along side and rolled inside our bow wake, looked at me and squealed. I leaned over and said hello. The porpoise squealed a greeting at me. This went on for several minutes. It was a friendly encounter I still cherish. I wonder what the porpoise was thinking?

"So God created great creatures of the sea and every living and moving thing. And God saw that it was good.” (Genesis 1:21)

Parking Ticket

September 14

This morning I drive downtown for a 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.
Less than an hour later there is a ticket on my window. 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 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)

Special Moments

September 12

We are looking for kindling. My son, 4 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 dark space.
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? 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 list 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.

The young pastor was convicted and 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 then 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 a bunch of 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.)

Hurricaine Mystery

September 6

He had come to help my dad repair the front porch but now Papa felt he had to go home. Dad reluctantly drove ‘Papa’ to the bus station in Proivdence.
The next day the deadly hurricane of 1938 hit the Rhode Island coast. All the phone lines were down so dad drove to Tiverton only 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 urged 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. She doesn’t respond to treatment and is listed as critical.
I call a niece in Spokane for prayer. I pray and prepare to fly from Florida to Connecticut.

The next day my son reports Jessica is doing so well the doctors are talking about letting her go home. My niece calls 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 be back 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 sof.t. 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)

Tommy at the Church Fair

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)

First Church in Wethersfield

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, has died in a house fire. He was 18. 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 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 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 received 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)

A Sign of Fall

August 29

"What do you mean, the change in green. Isn't green, ah--green?" I protest.
Joy 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. I 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."Call the fire department! Let's go!
"Where are Pat and Steve?" "At the fire!"
We run up the hill behind the cottage. "It is steep--and long." "I smell it." "I see it.” Finally the top! There are two blackened faces, one boy 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.The boys are safe. All is well again.

"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 Small Park in West Hartford

August 27

I sit 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 and I look it up. 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)

Epitaph

August 26

What would you want written on your tombstone? Gino says; "my 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 the exit 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, 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)

The Other Side of War

August 24

My tent mate at Boy Scout camp was "Peppy" our chef. who was a World War II vet. He told me this story. "We were fighting in France and were told to prepare positions for the night in this hedge row we had just taken."

" We 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 canteen 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)

A Special Rememberance

August 23

She excitedly tells me that at the last minute at the women's retreat she was asked to serve communion. She knew that she wasn’t ready, but God was. "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)

Dealing with Stress

August 22

We are moving and boxes are all over the living room. I stressing that two things I need 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 Mal peace about it.”
I feel my stress subside. I thank her for her love. As I rise from my knees 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 received a call that a couple we knew was 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 was 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.

A group of first graders were asked if they could change one thing about their Mom what is would be. 60% said..."stop yelling at me."
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)

God Gives More

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 and I see 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? But 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.I was his teacher that summer. 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 instructor 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 class my name meant “bald-headed monkey.” Laughter “Your teacher is mistaken, you tell her your name means bald-headed eagle,” Mom 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 club when the ground gives way and swallows my putter. 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 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. 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)

Responding to a Rebellious Son

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 little hair, wore a suit and drank scotch. We were both lost. “I’m leaving school, I can always get a GED.” I pray for the right words and say, ”An interviewer is going to see GED on your resume and a red flag will go up. You will have to explain these years.” He quits. A year later he says, “I am going 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)

Handling 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

We have completed the 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 soldier.
He sends us 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 and 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.

"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. His 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.I was humiliated. We never dated again and I still have the scar.

“Pride goes before a 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 Opportunity

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)

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."

Two men telling almost the same story to our group.

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

Proverbs 32 Husband

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. He who loves his wife loves himself.” (Ephesians 5:25,28)

Specialist Jphnson

August 4

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?"
Isn't God like that, making us humble ourselves first, then comes His blessings"
Spc. Johnson was a blessing at OCS.

“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, 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)

In My Cave

July 21

What do you do when your wife tells you she feels disconnected from you. I go into my cave to process and 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. How God has softened my heart and removed my hurt. It takes my breath away. Wow!

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

Sharing the Gifts

July 20

“God has gifted us all,” the pastor told three recipients, “use these gifts and come back next week and tell us what you did.”
At the next service a man came forward with a cookie jar holding $660. He passed the jar at a golf course. A woman donated her money to a Christian relief effort and a
man said he gave the money to a woman whose husband had lost his job. The pastor read a note from the woman. My husband has a job and the gift restored my faith.”
Have I been multiplying God’s gifts. When I do, I know what I will hear:

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

What is really Important

July 19

I have a habit of losing hats, umbrellas and pens. I use to go spastic especially when I misplaced my Cross pen. Now I am learning to put these material things in perspective. It’s all small stuff. It doesn't really matter if it is a pen, or hat or a watch, a car or even a house. The material things of life are not that important.

I have seen people on the news standing in front of a pile of debris after a tornado giving thanks to God they and loved ones are alive.

“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Col 3:2)

Perfect Growth

July 18

The Panama Canal Zone has ideal weather for plant growth. Where I was stationed
the Army would cut the wild grass and plants along the railroad tracks about every six weeks. The day it was cut I could see the rails as I drove beside the tracks. Just before the next cutting, the plants were as high as the train. It is true!
When the right ingredients are present growth can be remarkable.

“But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundred-fold, some sixty, some thirty." (Matthew 13:23)

Batchatraphobia

July 17

My wife has a fear of frogs. It is called Batchatraphobia. So what does her loving husband do? He buys a cottage on a cove where there are lots of bullfrogs. I net the amphibians and transfer them across the lake.

Joy read that scientist say that many deformed frogs found around the globe may be an early warning of a deteriorating environment. I can assure the world that the bullfrogs on Cedar Lake in Sturbridge, Ma. are healthy. Joy now tolerates frogs and is dealing with her phobia in a proper way.

"Give all your worries to God for He cares what happens to you." (1 Peter 5:7)

Shell Fishing

July 16

I am preoccupied with fishing when a crack of thunder startles me. I prepare to leave, but my motor won’t start. The sky is black. Here is a college kid in an open boat, no radio, no flares, not even a horn.
A boat approaches. It is a commercial fisherman. All he says is, "need a tow?"
He throws me a rope tied to his boat.
Soaked and shivering with lightening all about is frightening. There is nothing I can do but leave it in God’s hands.

“After rebuking the wind and waves Jesus said to them, ‘Why are you so fearful?
How is it you have no faith?” (Mark 4:40)

Lady in the Rain

July 15

We are at a stop sign and I clearly see a lady standing in the rain. Gads! She doesn’t even have an umbrella. I am convicted driving down the highway. I could have invited that lady into our car for a few minutes or at least loaned her an umbrella. I feel shame, ask for forgiveness and tell myself I will be more responsive to the needs of others.

“Lord when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and did not minister to You? Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.” (Matthew 25:44-45)

Sixes and Sevens

July 14

My grandmother called it, "sixes and sevens," I’m confused, not focused. In the mail is a flyer, quoting Thomas Merton.
"My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. I will trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone." What timing. Thanks you Lord.

"Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)