Christmas....really....what option

The traditions of the Holiday can almost put your life into a frenzy. It’s Christmas Cards that must be mailed out, using last years addresses from cards you received….only to remember that you never ever wrote down any of those addresses from last year, so that’s out. Maybe it’s a gathering of friends that you just haven’t seen in a while, so why not have them over to the house, what a great idea, right? Only to realize that once you finally got around to inviting folks two days before you wanted to have your social gathering that everyone was already committed to other things…that’s a bummer. How about attending a Christmas Play or a Parade…that will work, but not writing down the starting time will make for horrible seating inside, not to mention bad parking outside, and if it were to be raining, just double the negative experience that you wanted to be so positive?
I am pretty sure that I have mentioned some truths that folks can relate to reflecting back over Christmas 2009. I know I did a few things different this year to keep me out of the frenzy of the moment. For instance, I went to a shopping mall just to see if I could keep count of all the people that got mad because I was just walking inside the mall and not running over folks like they were. I will share that I also found it interesting to see how many people wouldn’t hold the door for someone with arms full of packages, or to just be nice and simply hold the door as a kind gesture. What I witnessed was when someone would hold the door folks would just keep walking in and out and no one would say thanks to the guy holding the door or replace themselves with their kind gesture allowing him to walk through the door he was opening in a good spirit. It was always interesting when that guy finally just quit holding the door that someone in his family would always gesture with a like “why did you do that, you should have known no one would be nice“, sorry I can‘t help but smile and laugh just a little. I don’t know what makes up Holiday Fun, but it seems like a lot of folks just don’t have any fun during this time of the year. Seemed to me most folks were mad that they had to buy a gift or upset that they didn’t know what to buy. Given those circumstances I’m not sure if I would be buying any gift, but then again, I’m not like most folks.
Holiday’s should be enjoyed. Sure it’s nice to have a schedule and a plan, but to be all bothered and worked up into a frenzy is not my plan. For instance, the family Christmas meal didn’t happen on the time mother wanted it to happen and I simply said, hey, if people don’t want to wait and can’t understand why it’s late, sorry about their luck. Of course I figured no one in the family was leaving to go eat some place else and if they did, that would leave more for me, and I would think that would be a good thing! Ok, I’m really smiling now, but I believe you should have enough thoughts to pull together the real picture we should have for our lives. From time to time rushing to accomplish a task is fine, but if that rush is created just because we kept putting things off and off, no, it’s not so good. Having to think about what people would enjoy or could use in life should be a great thing. Thinking about folks you care about shouldn’t be a negative chore.
I guess this is what happens when you forget about the real meaning of Christmas and the Holiday’s….Lord help me to always stay focused.

Until then

"First Christmas in Heaven"

I first published this poem December 1998 after the passing of my grandfather, C. Hobert Mills. For the past 11 years I have continued to resubmit this column each year not just because it is precious to me, but over the years I have received hundreds of emails and notes sharing how it has also touched others lives too. This year I am looking at pictures of loved ones and friends that remind me of great moments shared in life while here. My pictures are covering ages from 98 to 17. Having Christian Faith is a blessing that provides me with peace and comfort at this time of the year and I pray that you will find that same joy even with the loss of your loved one.

My First Christmas in Heaven

I see the countless Christmas Trees around the world below
With tiny lights, like Heaven’s stars, reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear
For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear
But the sounds of music can’t compare with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring,
For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart
But I am not so far away, we really aren’t apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones, you know I hold you dear
And be glad I’m spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above.
I sent you each a memory of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold.
It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do.
For I can’t count the blessing or love He has for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

Until then

Santa Clause....hum?

The song says, Santa Clause is Coming to Town, and the encouraging words instruct us that Santa is checking his list to see who is naughty and nice. Some thoughts that need exploration are items like, when does the list or recording keeping begin? Could it be that Santa starts his list on Christmas Day, especially since he comes on Christmas Eve? Or maybe he doesn’t start until the first day of Summer. This would give him time to regroup things at the North Pole pulling together all the players necessary to make such a one day sleigh ride possible.
Considering that most children don’t begin writing letters to Santa until the day after Thanksgiving, there is a lot of work to accomplish in a short time for the man in red and his helpers. Not sure when Santa starts keeping his list or how he organizes but the song states without a doubt that he is putting all of us into one of two list…bad or good.
One item that needs some investigating from the song is how you can move from the naughty and not receiving gifts to the nice and Santa is packing up something just for you.
When one is young you might thing for days about what you are going to put out on the table for Santa to eat during his visit to your house, and I believe most are not even concerned about the presence or absence of a chimney. I’m not sure if most children are thinking by leaving some goodies for Santa to eat that it’s the last ditch effort to win Santa over so he will leave more gifts or not, but that’s a question and thought worth wondering about for conversation sake.
Seems like everybody at this time of the year is trying to be nice so we can receive maybe our own wish list on Christmas Eve. If one doesn’t take a good inventory of themselves at this time of the year it is easy to see by just asking questions how we can begin traveling down a road that is not at all about the real meaning of Christmas.
The real news of Christmas is that whether naughty or nice, there is an answer that provides hope and the free gift of a lifetime. Gifts at this time of the year fall into the “I just want” and that means it could be something you want to play with or just have, or the other category “I should could use”, and it could be items you use all the time that are not only practical but useful and needed, not to mention your brand choice too.
Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem and he would die at the place of the Skull called Calvary. His gift to the world is one that for some it is easily seen and the need is felt inside our hearts, just knowing that something is missing in our lives. Accepting His free gift is an amazing experience. While you receive everything Jesus offers when you ask Him to come into your heart immediately, it does take time to get to know Him, learn His character and see His patterns and how He works in our lives.
Not sure about Santa and his list and nor when he begins, but one thing I know for sure. When ever you ask Jesus to come into your life, He begins to work immediately, He is just waiting on you to accept His gift for you…so why not this Christmas?

Until then

Regina Roaden Tye

In ministry, one fills their life with dreams and hopes of all the things you believe God has called you to do. Following God’s Call on your life has a lot to do with programs, events, and always having something to preach on a short seconds notice. I believe most in His service also want to impact people, but the one conversation no one ever shared with me at the beginning of my ministry, was how much I would personally be impacted by the people I would serve.
Churches provide many opportunities for personal growth through meeting people, walking with them through various circumstances and standing beside them during times of questions that seemingly produces no answers. Those opportunities also include celebrations through weddings, birthday days, graduations, anniversaries and moments of professional accomplishments too.
Serving the Greenland Baptist Church in Corbin has provided me a rich history of all the things that make for great memories. Regina Roaden Tye was an impact not only on me and my ministry but her life has impacted thousands. As a wife, her devotion to her husband Tim, and through his service as a United States Marine, Regina touched the lives of countless wives as a devoted Christian wife who offered faith and hope to those she encountered. As a mother she had devoted her energy, talents, and experiences of life as sweet counsel to her two blessings of life, Abby and Zach.
For Christians, faith in Jesus Christ offers eternal life which provides the foundation for celebrating a life that never ends. Wednesday December 2, 2009 is a date that now reflects her perfecting as a child of God. The Bible says that we become joint heirs with Jesus through Faith. The celebration of Regina’s life begins with the amazing gift of forgiveness of sin. The celebration of Regina’s life begins with a hope that teaches us to press on toward the prize. The celebration of Regina’s life begins with confidence that He who began a good work in us will complete it.
To me, Psalm 103 says, I will bless the Lord with all my soul not forgetting His benefits. My personal reflection of benefit from Regina’s life is the benefit of a friend who was an encourager. A friend who believed doing the right thing was the only choice. A friend who in nodding her head in affirmation said keep going, and a friend whose smile assured you God had just used you. To Regina, Psalm 103 is the realization of her faith. A Savior who heals all her diseases. A Savior who makes her young again mounting up new wings to soar with the eagles.
Battling cancer is not the plan any would choose for anyone. If a magic wand could be waved we would all be in line moving our arms back and forth. Truth is that cancer is a part of our lives. Some receive their healing here and for that we rejoice. For others various stages of remission occurs of which we are thankful. When faced with surmountable odds I have witnessed many rest in a peace and assurance that comes only from a personal relationship and faith with Jesus. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116: 15; And in faith years Regina your family and friends now sing, I will meet you in the morning.

Until then

Christmas Faith in Difficult Times

The news reports are all in. “Black Friday” sales were up from last year, so that was good news for the economy. The second half of the report shared that while spending was up, the individual spending limits were down. For individual responsibility I am going to say that too is good news. It’s not everyday that from media reports we are able to hear and see good and bad news and in the end both reports are good.
Finding a spirit of gratitude provides two sides for reflection as well. In a moment of illness or a situation that provides with more questions then answers it is easy in providing care to others to find your own reasons to be thankful and appreciative, yet finding yourself unable to change a circumstance through your many good intentions or efforts can be frustrating and challenging. There are things that we each know about ourselves and I know that my spirit is one that finds great satisfaction in helping others. In 1984, I began a personal battle with a crippling form of arthritis. When you find yourself addressing such issues as a young person is not the dream we think of growing up. When challenging times knock on our personal door in life, many emotions will fill your life. Not immediately able to gleam great wisdom at the arrival of such, there is one thing I know as a Christian. The passing of time will prove the reservoir of spiritual life. While emotions are a part of life, emotions cannot be the guiding source of our decisions. The Bible talks about Faith is the substance of things not seen, and that blessed are those that believe who have not seen. Personally I had to come to my own understanding with my Savior, Jesus Christ. I had to come to terms with His plans for my life and not my own. I had to face never before asked questions about what I believe, not what others have told me, nor what I had heard. Learning to drop my bucket into my own well and drawing from that source is the place I found that “peace that passes all understanding”.
When the challenges of life hand us the unexpected it is natural to feel completely caught off guard, but we should not feel abandoned. Pausing to stop and slow could be the exact action that will allow you time to reflect, regain your composure and draw from your spiritual reservoir of strength. This source will be overflowing once we connect and convince ourselves we have the strength to pull the bucket up from our well. The hopelessness that seems overwhelming has a remedy. The solution is the practice of faith and thanksgiving. You will discover the need to walk to your well often. Could be your walk will be a crawl. Or even still, you may feel that you are being pulled or dragged along the wayside by a friend who is repeatedly saying, they care.
Once scripture for these good and bad news days that will allow us to be positive no matter the report is Hebrews 13:8; Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forevermore. Keeping a shining smile on the outside of your heart will help you to express the confidence of the inside. Trusting the scripture that says, “He does all things well in His time.”

Until then

Thanksgiving Day!

Thanksgiving Day! The weekend of this celebration is here. It is hard to define what a normal Thanksgiving Day experience will be, or is. For many, it will include a meal that is prepared for those of the family that have joined. Just as difficult as it is to describe the normal Thanksgiving, it is just as difficult to describe those of the family.
For individuals who have lost their remaining loved one a singular season can only be filled with the memories of what you have spent building a life of experiences, places, things, and people. This does bring comfort during a time of loneliness, but yet still not filling the empty inside experience. Some on this Thanksgiving will be thinking of those that cannot be home, yet wish they were. Possibly children who are away in service to our Country how are missed by their parents, or even children missing the absence of a parent who has responded to defend freedom. Individuals are everywhere on this day. Some are in the hospital recovery from surgery, some are driving on highways because of deliveries that must make a docks call on Saturday.
Family is defined by most in America as a husband, wife and children. While this is a good definition, any couple that has planned, worked and prayed for children who has never had the experience of what The Bible says is a “Blessing of the Lord”, in my book this too is a family. Two individuals do make a family, but this is not as widely held or appreciated. For unmarried folks, some who have left their growing up community to move as a result of employment can find themselves without the comforts of their own family, and they create a new family setting, that includes a friend or two, maybe a co-worker and this is a new family to those on this day.
One goal that can be accomplished no matter the status of family, or the location of your disposition. We can find it a most appropriate time and place to say thanks. Thanks begins with remember what has entered our lives and touched our heart strings with meaning and purpose. With no employment, no insurance, and difficult times, one can still find great thanks to express. With loss of friends or acquaintances whose paths we’ve crossed, even still, there are many thanks to be expressed.
The task may involve writing things down, making a list for review, or looking at pictures or videos to remind and refresh our mind of memories. Family and friends, school mates and people who were there in days past that we had totally forgotten about, until the gentle reminder of a time well cherished.
Helen S. Rice said that she didn’t believe in “Happen Stance”, that being just the luck of the moment or a great draw. Rather, she believed that God could take any experience, any situation, and any condition and work it to a benefit if we would love Him and seek His face. When it comes to seconding a motion or agreeing with a position, I will raise my hand in support that God has a plan. Sometimes we don’t know it, sometimes in the midst of it we cannot understand how, but in ourselves we must find the faith to press on, keep believing and holding firmly to His hand.

Until then

Rev William Bingham, Jr; Dr. Charles F. Jones; Dr. Leon Simpson; Dr. Harold Wortman; Dr. Sammuel Patterson; THANKS!

This annual Season of Thanksgiving that allows each of us to participate in showing our appreciation and thanks to others for what they have done and meant to us is always exciting. For me this is an official type of way that I can acknowledge the contribution my life has received because of their friendship, influence and investment.
As one ages our understanding of what is important or valuable changes, especially from, let’s say our teenage years. One great factor that arrives with age for most adults is the realization of how little we really did know growing up, yet all along thinking we knew the answer and exactly what to do.
One truth in my life that I am not allowing for guess work this Thanksgiving Season is my love for Jesus Christ. I could assume that everyone figures that without question since this column is about Jesus Christ, His scripture, and their impact on our lives and the application of His truths to our lives in the way we serve others.
Naming my mentors in Christianity are simple: Rev. William Boyd Bingham, Jr, my uncle; Dr. Charles F. Jones my pastor for 32 years; Dr. Samuel B. Patterson, Jr; Bishop AME Zion, Morristown, TN; Dr. Leon Simpson, President Clear Creek Baptist Bible College; Dr. Harold Wortman, Chairman Music Department, Cumberland College-Williamsburg, KY; There men were the base of my accountability, instruction, and confidants. From them I learned the foundation of faith I have in Jesus Christ, service to others, vision and sacrifice. From this group of men I learned to lean in the safe arms of Jesus Christ, learning from them to prepare for rough seasons, difficult times, and challenging decisions. Each of these mentors wanted me to have nothing but easy winds to navigate the seas of life, but they knew that harvesting was a tough row to hoe and if you were any value to God the devil would use his free reign to discourage you with all his strength, seeking like a roaring lion that he may devour you.
Today I continue to hold deep appreciation and respect for the men that made a difference in me for His cause, but I hold my deepest appreciation for Jesus Christ who has always held me. This past Sunday in church one of our hymns and songs of thanks said, “He knows my name, He hears me when I call”. That confidence is one that fills dark nights, rainy seasons, and difficult times. I can hear my Uncle “W” saying to me, stay positive, look for the good. I can hear my pastor explaining that we have all sinned but that God picks us up when we cannot for the weight of life. “Ben” as I called Dr. Patterson would give me a quote like, “If there prayers go up, the blessings will come down”, or he would say I think it’s time to sing, and break out into, “Call Him Up”. Dr. Leon Simpson I can hear telling me how the difficulties of life are tools we must learn to use to help others, and I can hear him say, where there is no vision, the people are dead, the perishing is just the last phase of deaths course. “Doc”, my trusted instructor of 17 years, taught me the importance of singing with passion, understanding the words that are melody to the ear, and making them the music of my heart.
My beginning Thanks this Season begins with Jesus Christ. It is He who provided me with caring mentors who saw me at my worse and easily saw the hand of God not finished. It is Jesus who gave me men to teach me His word, and to hide it in my heart. It is Christ Jesus who gave me a well of resources for different times and situations and who never allowed the well to run dry.

Until then

Jesus is ready, are you?

If you talk with people in conversation it doesn’t take very long to figure out the type of causes they support or believe in. Most individuals have a cause, and that includes the most selfish cause of, “I don’t worry about anybody else, I just worry about me”. I write with a bit of a smile because some of the time individuals who make that statement actually believe they are doing a good thing and are making the proper choice. They totally miss the reasoning behind believing in issues and having a belief system. I know folks who are 100% committed to the March of Dimes; some who are always pumped about Relay for Life and that experience; and still others who are sports fans and their cause is seeing their team win and they are all about wearing team colors, you know those folks when you see them.
Causes are valuable and they even provide purpose and even meaning to our lives. As a Christian, it is easy to say my cause is the cause of Christ, but for those watching and observing, a question that must be answered is what is His cause? When you look at the life of Jesus there is no debate about his interest and cause. He came to seek and to save that which is lost, and for those of us following in His footsteps, that must be the focus of our attention and interest too. The problem facing many Christians today is that our lives seem to be empty of plans and purposes to make a difference in the lives of others as Jesus seemed to do with folks he encountered in His journeys.
Johnny Hunt, President of the Southern Baptist Convention said wouldn’t it be great to announce at the 2010 Convention the number of individuals who came to know Jesus Christ personally because of evangelistic efforts conducted during that convention. Imagine what would happen if all the pastors and deacons who attend the convention alone set out to intentionally share the good news of Jesus Christ with someone they meet during that time. I am specifically calling your attention to pastors and deacons because most Baptist love to blame everything on them anyways, but my imagination includes every believer, every Christian. The most difficult question for most Christians to answer today is: “Who is the last person you shared the good news with?” You will hear answers like, well, I may not have shared the gospel directly, but they know I care about them, or something like, I do a lot around the church and that is my focus. Please don’t misunderstand the important of supportive roles, I applaud those that work to make things happen behind the scenes but all of us as Christians still have a responsibility to tell others about Jesus, no matter how many church roles will assume or how busy we make ourselves to be.
Individually sharing your story and experience with Jesus is the key to others believing what you say you believe about Him. People are struggling to see answers and to have hope, and we have the answer, Jesus.
If you are shaking your head with I just don’t know type of shakes, then let me suggestion you look inside your church and see who it is you yourself have in your field of vision, and why not ask them to sit down and allow you 5 minutes to share what Jesus means to you. I believe we can change the world, one person at a time, and I know that Jesus is ready to help us with all that is necessary, or at least He was fully available to me.

Until then

Harlan County, Pineville Community Hospital....along the way

The Southern Baptist Convention meets annually with messengers that represent the Churches of the Convention. The interim between sessions is managed by the SBC Executive Committee. The President of this Committee is Morris H Chapman while the President of the Convention is Johnny Hunt from First Baptist Woodstock, Georgia.
Morris Chapman has provided great leadership for Southern Baptist. In the September 2009 Executive Committee Meeting, he asked the members of that group which consist of pastor’s, deacon’s, and church members “when was the last time you sought to engage a lost person in a conversation about the Gospel in an intentional effort to win that soul to faith in Jesus”? His words are what I would call, ‘real preaching’ because he is walking over our toes with that question. Christians today are all caught up in the fact that our churches are in most every community in the United States and our building are normally white, or bricked, and most even have a sign out front which clearly shows when we gather to worship and what time that takes place….isn’t that enough?
Johnny Hunt is a man who speaks with great passion and he loves people. Johnny preaches from his heart and his heart directs his actions towards others. Johnny is a soul winner, believes in changes, and new beginnings through grace and mercy discovered in Jesus Christ. Often times we think of these types of leaders as big time folks who don’t understand where we are here in the mountains, or the lives we live, but we are wrong to assume such. We are wrong to think we are all alone and no one understands. Certainly Jesus understands if we would give Him the chance in our lives to prove it, and even the President of the Southern Baptist Convention understands us here in Southeastern Kentucky. His father lived in Harlan, Ky and is buried in a small mountain cemetery just off U.S. 119. He father received his medical care from the staff and employees of the Pineville Community Hospital during his last months of his life. Johnny traveled the mountains here visiting his father often during that time, who would have thought right?
The fact is that Jesus Christ loves all of us. He loves folks who attend church but He is not stuck in the church. He, the Savior, is out roaming the highways, looking under hedges and into the trees of life seeking those that are looking for an answer. He is traveling along 25e from Goldbug in Williamsburg up to Bee Creek Road in Corbin. He is up in the hollow in Rockhold and Woodbine, to Swan Pond and Old Flat Lick. He is traveling through Red Bird, Left Fork, and yes, Frakes too. He is out seeking and searching because He has a plan to bring peace to individual lives through any and all circumstances.
What would Knox, Whitley, Bell and Laurel Counties be like if each of those white or brick church buildings became lighthouses of direction and headquarters for solutions and answers? What would happen if we stopped waiting at the church house doors on the steps to greet people and individual Christians were out helping to carry folks to the church where others were ready to help in providing care to the wounded as they made their way with our help to the healing house? There are lots of ‘what if’s’, but that is not what He is looking for. He is calling those that call Him by name to stand up and be counted not just in the number, but in the active army of the Lord.

Until then

Pumpkin Seeds

In the course of writing this column over the years there are many different things I have shared about myself. I have shared my favorite snack is a pretzel. Actually I am thinking specifically of a good ole Hot Sam’s. I can remember well saving pennies, because you could buy a hot pretzel for a nickel when I was a kid. I love R.C. Cola, Squirt, and Wink as my favorite drinks. My Aunt, Bobbie Jean Hicks and her Coca Cola Cake is still number two as my favorite cake, this of course only because my Grandmother Stella’s skillet cake remains at the top spot in that category.
The Fall Season is my favorite time of the year. I love watching the leaves turning into the colors of fall and to me there is nothing like feeling a breeze of a cold air with the warmth of the hot sun shining down in the fall. When it comes to the category of fruit, my choice is easy as my favorite, I love pumpkin! The late President of Oneida Baptist Institute, Dr. Barkely Moore, was famous for saying that at O.B.I. they grew potatoes, and he loved potatoes. He would then break out into that great preaching voice he had and in southern preaching fashion deliver their usages such as; Fried; Baked; Scalloped; Hashed; Boiled & Mashed; until you got the message that at Oneida there were being good stewards of what God had provided for them.
For me, I love pumpkin, everything from pumpkin soup and pancakes, to pumpkin sloppy Joes and by all means let’s have some seeds. You always risk the chances of hurting feelings when you say things, but my favorite gift of Christmas 2009 was a hand complied book of Pumpkin Recipes that my sister Bridget Baker put together for me. I’ve been waiting all year for my favorite fruit to arrive, as I love stewing pumpkins too. Canned pumpkin produced in some manufacturing plant is not my idea of pumpkin anyway, if you’ve never stewed a pumpkin and made your own pumpkin you’ve just missed a blessing. Especially if you let your children, grandchildren or nieces and nephews help. That is what you call memories of a lifetime they will never forget.
One of the reasons most folks don’t mess with pumpkins and they select the option of professionally produced canned pumpkin is the work that is involved in doing it the old fashion way. On top of that fact, the truth is the deal is messy too, but that’s the fun for me. The recipe I am using for my seeds this week is a Toasted Pumpkin Seed with Sugar and Spice. The task involves cleaning the inside of the pumpkin which means sticky, wet, and slimy. Washing the seeds multiple times, and then comes drying time, which this will fill at least a day and a half of time and I haven’t gotten started with the 45 minutes of baking and frying time this recipe calls for. Don’t forget, you will need to bring together all the ingredients necessary too. Sure it’s a lot of time consuming work, but the answer is umm, umm, good.
Having to work through a mess is not what most folks would call fun or enjoyable, but the memories you will build with those little ones and even yourself will be priceless and last a lifetime, I know from experience. Often times our individual lives become a mess, and honestly, it seems easier to through up your hands and quit, because the mess is messy and seems like way to much work. The almost unbelievable news is that Jesus Christ has already worked out the recipe for our lives. He has a plan, which is abundant, he has all the necessary ingredients and directions required for success already written out for us. We are required to pick up our “pumpkins” if you will, and bring them to Him if we want all the good that comes from such brought out.

Until then

Conversation with Russell Zik, about the church and our role.

The world in which we live currently seems to be filled with questions and doubts about almost everything. The uncertainly of situations, events and even people have created a state of uneasy and a state of no trust in about all things.
If you are a conversationalist, you know immediately what I am talking about as even the debate about ideas is not longer a plausible discussion. This is true because we hear, almost everyone, protecting their position, their interest, and they seem to also be closed minded to any direction other than their own. With all these questions, doubts, and wonders about how “the mess” the world seems to have invented will ever straighten out has many throwing their hands up in the air, but I am not one of those.
The skill of disagreeing yet maintaining a true and respectful appreciation of others is a characteristic that individuals have discarded and no longer being sought after or developed in our mindset or skills. As a Christian, one of the foundations of our belief system is respect for people and their decisions. Thus I would propose that the leadership of our churches repositions themselves as the Ambassadors of the Creator of the Universe, Jesus Christ, and that we begin to re-establish the church as the library of resources for seeking, searching and just exploration. The most difficult trait to develop as a Christian is that of allowing people to say yes and no. The Bible is filled with the example of Jesus alone in allowing people to seek, search and explore, and yet still respecting them in their decision to walk away. The key for the Church is that while respect people’s decisions, we continue to demonstrate the love of Jesus for them even through rejection.
In a recent conversation with Russell Zik, who is a student at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, we explored the opinion when folks say, “everything works out”. Now the Bible certainly teaches that there is a purpose for everything, but the scriptures do not teach that everything works out. There is a condition to such and most individuals do not quote the scripture just a paraphrase of their desire for how things should be. Roman’s 8:28 clearly states things only work out for those called according to His purpose. This is a great place to being ones search for answers and seeking of solutions. The church is also the perfect place to facilitate this exploration just as Columbus set sail out on the ocean blue.
Our conversation also included a discussion of the often quoted conditioned response to “how are you”. Folks everywhere mostly say just fine, even when the world maybe in pieces around them. I shared that people give this type of response because they don’t believe our question or inquiry is sincere or genuine. Unfortunately many people just consider that to mean a method to use to find out gossip, or to be “put our nose” where it don’t belong. As Christians and church leaders, we could change that. We could demonstrate the real love and concern that Christ has for people, and that could lead to an eternal difference.
The scriptures talk of the church as the salt and light of the world. By the way, when I say church, I am talking about the body of Christ, we the people. The buildings that the body has erected are instruments that we should use to tell His story but to often they are just on display through out the week as landmarks for folks needed earthly driving directions. What a difference could be made if those who profess the name of Jesus, believed He was who He said He was…

Until then

Cupcake Message

Not sure about your position on cupcakes and how they relate to the current spiritual condition of some individuals but I can clearly see the rising in the oven as they bake. A friend of mine and his family recently stopped in for a visit. Being someone who likes to entertain, this was a perfect opportunity to throw out the red carpet and make a great memory of road trips for his wife, kids and family.
Upon their arrival I thought why not fix corn dogs and grilled cheese for the evening snacks, and for breakfast the next morning I could fill the table with gravy, biscuits, fried potatoes and all the necessaries. Good idea so far, right?....until I realized he and his wife were the loving parents of a picky eating child. After a very short, “let me get the facts straight”, it was understood that cupcakes would do, and she was fully prepared for my lack of understanding and with regards to her personal disposition.
It was at that moment my mind went racing in two fast track road trips. First, I thought of my grandparents, the rules were simple, if you didn’t like what was on the table that was fine with them, you just didn’t eat. I will give them credit for me eating everything, and I guess I can just blame them too for any weight issues I might have. After all they didn’t cater to my special needs which should be a violation of something right? The second fast track was on Acts 4:12 which states, “There is no other name given among men, whereby we must be saved,” and thus cupcakes began to speak to my heart about the stubbornness of many when it comes to Jesus Christ.
Now certainly eating cupcakes will not send you to Heaven or Hell, but this is a perfect example of caution so we do not become caught up in our world, blinding us from His truth and blessing. Certainly as a child there were things I too didn’t like to eat. That memory is amazing today because I will eat most everything I refused to eat back then. I love liver & onions, green beans and even salads. Who would have imagined right? It is one of those important lessons one can gleam from life if we allow ourselves to try new things. In this situation, the cupcakes were brought along for the trip, knowing that on the road ahead there maybe things one doesn’t like. It’s a good thing when you can have another option, as a cupcake, but there are some issues where there are no other options. Salvation is one of those issues that some folks just bake up and swell over.
Acts 4:12 clearly states that Jesus Christ is the only way, but I ‘m certain there are other roads many will try. No one likes that medical conversation in which there is only one way or one direction you can go to find answers. We all want options, but in some situations, that’s not possible. Salvation is one of those positions in the Christian Faith that there is no other direction according to The Bible.
It is possible that today in many things you maybe able to say, no, I will just eat a cupcake, but there are some matters that require a real decision and direction. From some issues there are no deviations. For Christians, Jesus Christ is the only answer and if you want to eat the full meal you will need to pull up a chair to the table.

Until then

90 Days Remain in 2009!

It is hard to believe but October is here, fall is official, and our opportunity of choices continues daily as we are granted another day here on planet earth. My personal scripture focus for 2009 has been I Corinthians 4:8-9. “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; Perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not abandoned; Struck down, but not destroyed.”
Consideration of these closing days in 2009 continue to create questions of which I am seeking answers still, while yet I have discovered some answers to issues and questions that I have been baffled by as well. In these closing 90 days of the year I believe more then enough time remains for full discovery and understanding if you and I are up for the task.
A part of the discouragement that I believe fills many plates is our reaction to news that we hear from the political side of life. It appears the United States is now all upset that the Country of Brazil won their search and goal to host the 2016 Olympics. The City of Chicago wanted this opportunity, but the Olympic International Selection Committee eliminated our city in the first round. It has been called a “devastating blow” the City of Chicago and even the Presidency of Barack Hussain Obama. I personally am not sure how the selection of the 2016 Olympics Site trumps or scares our President but apparently to some observers and commentators it does. I’ve been to Brazil and Rio de Janeiro and I am happy there were selected, after all the Country of Brazil has never hosted the Olympics before, so I’m thinking this is a good thing. My concern is why this announcement is so upsetting. I would think the fact that no one has stepped forward with information about the beating of a 16 year old teenager in Chicago should be the real focus of our attention. If Chicago seems to far away for our concern, how about our attention being focused on finding the responsible individuals for the death of a U.S. Census worker who was hanged to death in Clay County as a more important matter?
If you want one more downside to items that bring about possible discouragements for life here in Southeastern Kentucky, how about the issue of family incomes regarding the Health Care Debate? When I hear members of the Congress and our U.S. Senators talk about income levels for families making less then $250,000.00 per year, even I can get distracted. The Congressional understanding of Middle American is way off base. Why doesn’t our Kentucky Congressman’s and U.S. Senator’s talk about families that make less then $30,000.00 per year and demonstrate their decision based on those family income levels for a real spread sheet on their decision and it’s impact on us, the average proud resident of Southeastern Kentucky.
All these issues will make us hard pressed for answers and they are perplexing, but with or without health care I am not crushed. I do have a health insurance policy that provides for a complete new body in that the City of Heaven. As for abandoned and struck down by the decisions of others, I should not be destroyed, because I have as a Heavenly home a City not make by human hands, but rather by the Master’s Touch.
There is hope still, don’t grow weary of doing good, for in due season you and I will reap, if we faint not.

Until then

September 11, 2001 - An old answer for a new problem

Remembering the experience of September 11, 2001 and determining our response and reaction continues to change and grow daily. One of the issues I believe America is struggling with is exactly how we see ourselves. Now there has always been a difference between rural and urban living but some of the lines there were once marks of distinctions that identified where someone lived or where they were from no longer exist..
Life in Southeastern Kentucky has herself made many changes over just the past 20 years, although it might be difficult for some to see the changes. Changes like who lives here and who is our neighbor has changed. I remember driving my grandfather up the roads of Stinking Creek and he could tell you who lived in every home, and something about them and their family. Today, folks do a lot of moving and ”homesteads” in the mountains that everyone once could identify have changed and single family dwellings are one example of change that occurred.
20 years ago our communities were also individually known, but not today. Fourmile is Pineville; Meldrum is Middlesboro; Goldbug is Williamsburg; In Corbin, the urban cluster is confusing because city services are provided in areas not officially Corbin, Ky; Popular Grove is even considered Barbourville; One could blame the postal service and say the closing of Offices that were once staples of our communities is the reason for this merger but nevertheless, it is what it is, things have changed. We’ve gladly taken on a new identity if it provided benefits and services, while honestly loosing just a bit of ourselves along the way. I am not suggesting that this is a bad thing, but merely pointing out that identifying ourselves can be a problem especially as the America of just a few years ago prior to the attacks of 9-11.
English is our native language and here in the mountains we haven’t had any issues understanding one another as we’ve talked. We have long considered the issue of foreign languages to be something that big city’s must content with. However, there is not a schools system in Southeastern Kentucky, a Law Enforcement Agency or a provider of health services that has not needed assistance with interpretation because our mountains neighbors are changing.
One factor that if consistent, I am confident could assist in this transition, would be a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Respecting people, all people is not a new liberal position that has been announced by the Democratic Party. The greatest liberator of all time, Jesus Christ set all people free long before our current system of government was established. Honesty and integrity were not created by the Republican Party those characteristic were created by Jesus Christ, who also established mercy and grace.
If individuals were to institute the teachings of the Bible into their daily lives we would not have to worry about corporate greed and abuse, because individuals living the right way would win out in every decision.
Could be I am just dreaming about a time past, but I don’t accept that position. Jesus never wanted us to live in the past, but rather to press forward. We all have choices and while we may have an identity crisis taking place today, the answer is still in front of us if we would chose to accept

Until then

September 11, 2001 - Hope & Peace hand in hand

The United States is always in fast mode to show quick remembrance and then run to the next event or moment. Last week I wrote about how the three current living generations have been impacted by events and moments with a special emphasis for 9-11-01.
The date, September the 11th is a date that has many memories prior to the terrorist attack that occurred in New York City, at the Pentagon in Washington and the memorial of an open field in Pennsylvania that was Flight 93. Certainly the terrorist attack on that date in 2001 has overshadowed all other world events. I know of individuals who were born on September 11th, I officiated at the wedding of Mr. Mrs. Lance Kidd on that date in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Golden Rule Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star in London, Ky., was founded on that date in the year 1909.
In the fast mode of living that seems to be the custom here in the U.S. we feel good to remember things on specific dates but I believe the real lesson for learning is that we are impacted daily because of the experienced living we have witnessed and participated throughout our life. President Abraham Lincoln in The Gettysburg Address delivered on November 19, 1863, provided then and now a position that we should each hold to and strive in emulation. President Lincoln on that day said, “It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, but the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth”.
The sacrifice of lives for freedom and principals is nothing new to the experience of life. The call to duty has at times been one clearly seen on the approaching horizon while during other time frames we have been caught off-guard totally for that moment. On September 11, 2001 there was both an approaching danger seen by the government and a moment that caught us as individual citizens mostly unaware.
With confusion and still unanswered questions since 2001, our Nation and the world continues to deal with the affects of the decisions made that day, but we have not stopped moving neither forward as a Nation nor as individuals. Obstacles and set backs are a part of life that must be dealt with through attitude, redirection, and constant dreams of the future.
The greatest gift of hope and peace I have discovered was found in Jesus Christ. Hope is all about the things you have not yet placed your hands on, nor the things you have yet to see with your eyes. Some folks will never believe until they see, but the blessings come in seeing with your heart and not your eyes. Peace goes hand-n-hand with hope and again the source I have found for that answer is in Jesus Christ.
September 11, 2001 is one date in our Nations History, and while today may not be marked by world-wide historical documentation, but the positive difference you decided to make in just one life may very well be all the difference in the world thus changing the course of history.

Until then

September 11, 2001 - "One source for Peace"

The United States stands in memory and memorial regarding September 11, 2001. (9-11). Individuals who are baby boomers and who have the full experience of that generation group, having moments to recall of significance are many. Certainly some individuals might not have an emphasis on events, and if that is the case, I suspect that is do to a lack of involvement in following news or staying current on civic events daily.
Our world today stands among the many winds that blow and our world takes hits daily across the globe. The only fear I have today is not one that regards life after death, as that I settled back in 1972. We’ve all heard of that that consider themselves to be an island off in their own world and that is my fear. Growing up as a teenager and young adult, I have had my moments where I considered that my actions and decisions had to deal with only myself, and that my work had to do with only me. Not sure how I could have developed such a childish point of view, but nevertheless, it happened on different occasions and I guess I should be thankful that my parents overlooked my self position and viewed me as I was, a long way off from growing up.
The decisions we make daily have an impact. Yes, some of the decisions are simple and have no profound impact on our surroundings, but other decisions and actions that we engage in have a wide range of impacts and this should be safe guarded. Consider others is not the easiest thing to do from a stubborn heart position, but when individual have character and integrity proper motives always shine through in their actions as we observe.
9-11 is a moment that causes America and the world to stop and pause, including reflection regarding the actions of others. The history books should reflect that this day had both of the affects of individual actions and decisions. Positive and Negative both flow for the decisions of others and how we reflect and evaluate determines the memory we pass on to the next generation. My youngest niece is not old enough to remember the events of that day, but she will be living out the experience and direct outcome from that day for her remaining life. The words that cover the period of time have now changed our conversations forever. Some individuals who never consider the world outside our boarders now take a moment to hear what is happen in the remaining world throughout their day. It is important, many have learned, to know sometimes what is happening a”cross the street and down the road”.
Protecting our freedoms is not just our government’s task or responsibility, but rather, it is our individual responsibilities to protect and care for ourselves and even those of others. Considering what is the best step to peace and harmony would begin with an inward look into our hearts. As a Christian I don’t always agree with every other Christian in the world but one thing I know for certain. If every professing Christian in the world took time to love our neighbors as our selves and if we also gave like time to pray for our enemies, I do believe we would have many more positive moments to remember in life than negative heart breaking situations.
There is a peace that passes all understanding, and it come from only one source, Him-Jesus.

Until then

What opinion will you practice?

The sharing of an opinion has the opportunity to provide a positive learning experience. I have never kept a daily log to tabulate the number of opinions I have heard throughout the course of a single day, but I believe it would be a fun project to just keep a record to see all the things you think of in a 24 hour setting.
I have heard preachers, pastor’s and teachers often say, in reference to being a Christian, that it is easy. Not sure what they base their opinion on, but my personal experience is not one that I can say has been easy, as there are many difficult things about being a Christian, and following Him is just one of those difficult experiences. I have said many times that “loving your enemies” is not a very fun thing to do, and certainly “praying for them” is not something that you just wake up in the morning all excited about. I believe practicing that example of Christianity is difficult. As a Christian we can be successful in loving our enemies and praying for them, but it requires serious work and a commitment to follow Him.
Jesus was a friend to sinners. Sounds easy to say, but difficult to practice. The Apostle Paul said that he was chief of sinners and that is a very different opinion to hear as many folks believe Christians are “perfect in someway” or that they “never do wrong”.
I have always identified myself as a sinner, not that is it something I am proud of or boastful of, but it certainly is something that I am always mindful of, and that has always served me well in working with others, being mindful that even when we miss our marks, or His mark for our lives, He still loves us and His plan is still at work in our lives.
That is a very difficult opinion to believe in because most people enjoy watching others suffer and have difficult experiences that seem to bring them down, or as some say, “shows them” type of attitude. I Cor 13: has something to say about that, and if we the human race, we don’t get excited about their wrong doing and or their punishment. Rather we strive to find a way to walk beside people, a look for opportunity to be a real friend, and most importantly we don’t step back when the hour has arrived. When I look at Jesus and His example, I see His opinion everywhere. In Luke Chapter 14: we see plenty of His opinion and extended friendship. He healed the man with Dropsy and how about His association with the ten lepers; Jesus loved rich young rulers and blind beggars. Of course headline news would have reported that Jesus gave Zacchaeus a second chance too. All opinions that if practiced, are not easy as a Christian.
For whatever reason, we like for people to like us, we want to be appreciated, and respected, so sometimes, we don’t get involved or we will not associate with individuals
because of their bad reputation, but that wasn’t the opinion of Jesus.

Until then

Debbie Cook - An Example to follow....

In a recent article I wrote about making a difference. Using what we have, where we are. I have discovered that sometimes when I am speaking to various groups some folks seem to understanding immediately what I am talking about and they can clearly see how they can do it from their individual view points. Many times those same individuals will come out and throw out an idea about what they can do today, and I assume some of those same many will make it happen. At other times when speaking, attempting to motivate you can see the look on their faces, or what their expressions, and determine you might be fighting a battle there is not way to win, because they are not committed to that type of purpose or calling.
The announcement by Debbie Cook to step down from the Corbin Board of Education, of which she served as Chairman for 12 years, is one individual we can look to and say, here is an example of someone that has made a difference. Of course her work on the Board of Education might have seemed like a career in and of itself, but the witness I see is even greater then this one mile post in her life.
Debbie Cook is someone that has always been first and foremost a mother. Her and Chandler have always held to family first and their children’s growth and leadership has been seen throughout their academic years and even now their adulthood. Raising a family to be hard workers and to be individuals that others respect because of their individual actions is no easy feat. I am sure Debbie is smiling about now thinking I am fooled, knowing her kids are kids and each of us have had moments of not such great shining light syndrome, but nevertheless, as a mother, she is an example of pressing forward, loving your children and also launching them to their own foundation to stand.
Her service to the Commonwealth of Kentucky is documented with awards, certificates and recognitions for outstanding service, and I cannot help but keep in mind that she juggled a career with State Government, a career as a mother & wife, a career as a member of the CBOE and her love for Jesus Christ is now seen in this next move as the Director of Children’s Ministries at Central Baptist Church, Corbin.
The great opportunity in life that we each have is the chance to make friends and to even observe our friends in action. Debbie Cook is someone that I am thankful for as my personal life has been enhanced because of our friendship and experiences over the years, many of which include worship services and ministry events through church. Today I cannot help but think what a blessing the little ones at Central Baptist are about to receive as they get the 100% dedication of Debbie Cook’ life and passion for children.
When you consider the importance of planting where we are planted, I cannot help but think how blessed Corbin has been in the move that she and Chandler made in their decision to move to Corbin and make this home for themselves and their children. We are all the better for their decision. So often we hear people say, what I do only affects me, but clearly we all can see, the decisions we make clearly touch many lives from every direction.
God is good, all the time, and He blessing us in many ways.

Until then

It's a good feeling to know folks care...

Knowing you are cared for is not exactly the easiest thing to buy into totally. Life extends some very hard knocks to individuals and even families. It would be nice to say that all one needs to do each morning is rise and shine and off we go on the yellow brick road, but that’s not true. Yes, we should rise and shine and that is a positive attitude that makes a difference, but even the yellow brick road may contact some patch work that we must be aware of as we travel.
For those who have experienced the pot holes and detours off the yellow brick road will know doubt find it difficult to be cheerleaders all the time. If we are giving applause for truthfulness, then let’s be honest and admit that life is not a pot hole free travel. When I look back at life I am at a spot where I am thankful for those rough moments in life that has caused me to reconsider, rethink and reevaluate where I am and where I am heading.
It is amazing how feeling like others care about you has such a connection to our own self worth and confidence. Honesty mandates that we understand not everyone who says that they care, actually does, but nevertheless knowing that some folks care does provide a foundation that we can use as a solid footing for a road filled with holes and detours. We expect that family cares, but some could share this is not true at all. Sad that our families are not concerned nor care, but it is what it is. I wish I could write that our friends will always be true but that will not be 100% accurate either.
What I can say is that when I am down I consider the value and worth that Jesus Christ sees in me and that often lifts me up. Sometimes I have been tired and just not able to press on with a happy smile in spite of the happy disposition I want to display. Especially in that situation, I am grateful for the love that He has already shown me. What an encouragement to rely on Him for that smile when my facial cheeks don’t want to life showing a happy face.
You can achieve that disposition by remembering that you were first created in His image. What a unique spot to consider. The creator of the Universe made me in His image. I have all the talents and skills necessary, but I might need to get them out and polish them up after I dust them off. Often times we have what we need in life, but he are just not familiar with how it works or maybe even how to turn it on?
Another fact worth considering is that He doesn’t place more on us then we can bear. Certainly I have thought I was crushed on several occasions only to remind myself that it’s not true. I maybe crushed, but not in despair. Knowing I have a direction and answer in whom to turn to is very encouraging.
Jesus Christ really does love us and He does have an abundant plan for our lives. One of my personal self caring traits is to be reminded that His plan is best for me and even though I may have many questions about how things work out in the end. Learning how to lean on Jesus is definitely an answer. That answer works when we are wondering if anyone really cares. When all is said and done, know this one fact for certain. Jesus cares, always has, always will.

Until then

Reflecting upon our lives and actions

If you think back over the past 17 years of your life, what are you thinking as highlights? Now if you don’t like the number 17, may I suggest you consider any number you’d like, but think about the past and it’s influence on your life. Decisions are a difficult position to reach. Some will say just make a choice, and go with it, others will suggest do nothing if you are unsure, while still some might recommend do just a little and see if you like it.
High School days seem so important during that time, but how many high school friends do you still communicate with? I have only a few that I communicate with, but many I liked and many I would like to hang out with again, but that planning hasn’t started yet. When I think of things from high school, I think of the day we honored our retiring principal, James A Pursifull. That was a good thing then and even today, I am glad that happened.
College friends, I have about the same number of folks I communicate with regularly, and some because of our careers and professions we remain in contact still.
Graduate School produced about the same numbers, but the acquaintances and network of friends is larger and it seems more appropriate to just speak to those friends when you get the chance. It’s those high school friends and even grade school friends that you seem to miss the most. It could be this way because we don’t know where many of them are, we’ve lost touch as the years have passed. At least this is true for those that moved away, spent time in the service or found themselves setting up shop in another location, just not at home.
Of all the relationship we have enjoyed, have memories of, and remain with today, one factor I believe is true for all of these depend on the genuineness of what we shared when we had the time. Mark D. Sharp was one of my best friends in high school and his death in the summer of 1983, along with his cousin Thomas Southerland and Frank Hood, had an impact on my life I still reflect upon. I am thankful today that I was real then and honest in friendship. Moments like those speak to all of us if we listen and respond after letting our reactions pass.
Every generation has these situations. For me, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ has made a difference that has totally affected my responses. Jesus lived a short life, but made a profound impact because of His actions toward others. The difference he made because He forgave. The difference He made because of His approach to decisions regarding people. The stories He shared and the difference He made simply because He walked down the road with folks.
We have a lot of decisions to make and we have already started the course and the way history will reflect upon our actions. I pray as we each consider the different framing of the years of our lives, time will tell we did it right.

Until then

Here's a conversation to begin....

Not sure what you enjoyed about high school, but when it came to classroom discussions, I loved History and Civics Class. These two subjects provided for great conversations regarding current events and lively discussions.
English was a favorite subject of mine. I loved all the plays and to be taught their value has greatly increased my understanding of life, people and situations. Imagine, I learned that in school? Laughing with a smile is always good.
The discussion of current events in History Class one is able to find evidence for what we believe, even if we don’t want to admit the chances are our interpretation will not be the national average opinion. Civic Class and the discussion of government, her role in our lives and our responsibility to be active and participate will bring out the worse in some people even today.
Currently our Country has a lot of questions racing through minds of folks that think and wonder. Some will give up and not even address some issues because they don’t believe any thing will come of it, while others will hold to their position and fight to the very end wanting concessions of victory. I’ve been writing about the church and issues, so I need to add some current events so folks won’t believe I am old fashion in my thinking and stuck in some decade past.
Michael Jackson has died, and his death is due to drugs. Some want to put the blame on doctors but the best words I heard about this came from one individual in the Jackson Camp. Michael is responsible for his own death, no need to blame any one else, they said. I agree, but is personal responsibility something we really believe in? My heart has long grieved for individuals misusing drugs and who are addicted, but help begins within. Yes, outstretched arms for those steps are ours to extend, but it takes two to walk side by side.
Listening to the Confirmation Hearing of Sonia Sotomayor makes me wonder why some Districts elect the Senators that they do. Justice should be blind but it’s not. Every individual I know relates life to their experiences. It’s the learning from our experiences to help others that makes the lessons of life teachable from any position. I expect our Supreme Court Justice will use their backgrounds for rulings. We however hope that they will be opened minded to learn and view things from all points of view.
There is so much to discuss and so much to debate that I could write for days. But what is the answer to the real question of life when asked, what is really important. Michael is dead and based upon what he did with Jesus Christ, there in is the answer. We may have the first Hispanic Women to serve on the US Supreme Court shortly, but law with out mercy and grace is barbaric.
Not sure what all the answers are, and I am glad to have an opinion to share but there is always a bottom line. In all our Country’s events, we are moving toward a coming day when the sky’s shall unfold, trumpets will sound, and even the dead will rise. The only problem with that moment and those events will be that it will be to late to make a decision. I would respectfully suggest you start begin your decision of conversation now. You don’t want to be late!

Until then

The church is busy, so what will you do?

The creation of the personal computer has really changed our lives. Computers were first created for the government and then big businesses needed computers, or given time, value was seen for that application, and finally they worked their way down to us, the individual user. Do you know of any business today that doesn’t use computer technically?
There have been many side expansions because of computers. Excel spread sheets now replaces the once books that contained all the figures and notes one would keep in operating a business. I have a smile on my face thinking about my Great-Grandfather Nasby Mills. He would write down his notes and I.O.U.’s on card board boxes (By the way, I.O.U. stands for, “I owe you” for those who are to young to understand such outdated information)
I recently receive two emails that the electronic world calls “spam” that offered great deals. The first email said that I could have all I needed in life for the cost of a pizza a month. I had to read that email so I could discover my secret to success. The deal was simple. Purchase an insurance policy at the cost of a pizza a month and I would be set! Sounded good, but I’ve been wondering how that money will benefit me when I am not able to collect and deposit that money? Not wanting to be totally selfish, but I love pizza, and when I weigh in the balance those options, well, I guess you can figure which I am selecting correct?
The second email came with a great heading: “Millionaire shares $100,000.00 Secret”. Had my attention immediately! The only problem was the millionaire was selling his secret and since my cash flow is at the $10.00 mark, I am 99,990 thousand away from that secret. Knowing people, I assume the millionaire author of the email has made hundreds of thousands in letting out his “secret”.
It is amazing what we like to believe in. Now I like believing, I like exercising confidence, but something must be said for the obvious, no way to be true. Mountain folks understand firmly, “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is”.
One could answer 100’s of emails a month like the two I received and described and see nothing for their effort. Flip the coin and exercise that same effort in Faith in Jesus Christ and see what happens. No, a $100,000.00 will not fall from the sky, nor will Pizza’s just start being delivered at your door once a month. Faith in Jesus Christ will provide you with the things I have discovered money cannot buy. Things like confidence that no matter how difficult the challenge I am never alone. Faith yields answers for questions that I have long sought and peace to press on when no answer arrives.
One truth that you can trust is that Jesus has paid it all for me and for you. It is hard for some individuals to believe in Jesus because they have never met Him personally. Another truth I can guarantee you is that if you reach out to Him, you will discover Him reaching back to you.

Until then

The Church has options....

Having written in last weeks column that it appears the church has a plate full of issues to address, discuss and consider, the next step in a positive course of action is to evaluate the plate full.
I have been to many a buffet line in my day and I have always often been amazed by those that join in the food service line. The most shocking witness my eyes have observance was a women who was making repeated trips to the breakfast food bar, removing bacon, and putting the bacon in a zip lock container she was obviously taking home. Other amazing sights at the buffet bar have to do with the amount of food individuals put on their plates. The one thing it appears some miss is the stacked plates that are just sitting there waiting to be filled; but rather, we will pile food on top of piles of food to build a mountain of food on a single plate. Why not go through the line with two plates? Maybe it is to show off ones food pile engineering skills? I assume the reason for one big plate is to get all you want in one trip so you don’t have to move again until you leave.
Whatever the reasoning behind our buffet standards of selections and food assembly on our plates, we all know from experience when we have a plate full. Another observation would be that often times we never work our way to the bottom of the plate, we just skim off the top the food that looks good after sitting at our table. Now to be fair, it could be that a plate full is a chicken leg, a spoon of corn, mashed potatoes and a biscuit or roll. But that’s normally not the case. We generally ask, “Is that all you are getting”?
We seem to like over load in stead of thinking out a plan or considering options. Over load seems to be the standard of the day and an acceptable answer when heard. We respond normally with “I understand” or “I know what you mean”. It maybe true that we do understand as we too feel overwhelmed, overworked, and yes, under paid of course.
The Church today is in an interesting position. On one hand, the church is unique and is a perfect place to serve as a re-fueling station for weary travelers on life’s road. I always had a goal as a servant to be a leader offering encouragement, support and a challenge. The goal in preaching was to provide solutions and different ways for the considerations we each must make. On the other hand, the church is not unique, her burdens are heavy and some individuals are broken down because of the loads they have carried for whatever reasons.
The great challenge is not balance, the great challenge is focus. From the buffet line of life we often try to balance and juggle, and often it’s too much. I am in full favor of helping and volunteering. I believe strongly in being involved and active. I like questions and seeking solutions. The uniqueness of the church still stands. We offer a Savior, Jesus Christ as Lord. The ordinariness of church is also true if we don’t focus. Our focus should be on telling Good News in bad times. Loving people, after all scripture says faith and hope were 2nd and 3rd to Love according to I Corinthians 13:
The Church is filled with fellow travelers who, maybe not exactly like you in your travels, but exactly like you in your needs. The focus must be in making a re-connection with Jesus and doing what He would do.

Until then

4th of July - American!

A Celebration of our American Freedom’s has arrived for an official celebration of our Nation’s birth this weekend. If you had to list your top 10 reason why you love the United States of America what would you put on your list?
Maybe you would take a funny approach and list things like: I can spit sunflower seeds on the ground and not go to jail; You can smoke a cigar—opps, sorry that one is limited, ha, ha, Maybe your list would be serious and show your political colors: You believe in abortion and believe the right to choose is the answer; You believe that every legislative house in America should open in prayer and in the name of Jesus; Maybe you would just include things like; You love the Dallas Cowboys and believe the Cincinnati Reds and the Cowboys are America’s Teams; How about a list of comparisons of America with other country’s to feel a sense of appreciation for the Red, White and Blue?
American is a diverse country filled with double standards and great debates about life, liberty and the pursuit of both!
I was recently at a community festival and there was a booth promoting separation of church and state and just two booths down was a local church promoting their faith and handing out information. Interesting that on the same row one could see such a difference in opinions. I guess the organizers of that part of the festival didn’t think about what the individual booths were representing and if they did and still placed them next to each other I assume the hope was for a fight between opposing views. Maybe the best way to describe that would be only in America.
Only in American we are permitted to do a lot of things. We can disagree and agree; We can vote against something and march around with banners if we like. Only in America can you say bad things about people and find a way to call it freedom of speech. Only in America can you say you don’t believe in Jesus, God, or any religion and still have all the same rights that everyone else enjoys. Only in America can you be sentence to death and it take 30 years to see the sentence carried out, if ever. You see in other countries when you are found guilty and sentenced to death, they do it immediately.
There are a lot of reason to get mad, be upset, and be hateful over policies here in America, but there are more reason I believe to celebrate and love this land moreover.
Having traveled in other parts of the world I easily love America. However, I didn’t have to leave America to love it. I learned to love America in Arjay, Kentucky. Simple life or complex life I can easily see reasons why I proudly say the Pledge of Allegiance, sing the National Anthem and place my hand over my heart in honor of my Nation in pledge of my services.
As you celebrate the 4th of July think about why you really love America and then I would strongly recommend you do something to make it a better place. Myself, I will pray for my Nation. I will seek to do good when and where I can, and even at my own cost. I will honor the service of those men and women who have fought to make the freedoms I enjoy real and I will always love this land.

Until then

Erik Wesley Thomas - Fathers Remembered

Father’s Day is that day you want to do something really special but you are not quite sure what to buy or give to your Father that would let him know how much you care. My Father, James E. Mills, Sr., has so many bottles of Old Spice that we see them stacking up, unopened because of jus that one continuous gift. Of course, my Father always says he loves each bottle and or Old Spice product he is given. After watching him through the years, I know he’s telling the truth about that.
My Dad’s Father, C. Hobert Mills, loved two things I know for sure. He loved a pocket knife and believed you could never own to many. My Grandfather also loved an ice cream Pepsi float. I know you are thinking I wrote Pepsi and made a mistake but I did not. He preferred Pepsi over Coke Cola any day. It is amazing the things you recall when you reflect and remember the Father’s of your life. I so wish my Grandfather was still here. I think of his advice often and I use his phrases today just as if he were still here with us. I cannot help but also write my Grandfather loved Puff Wheat too.
My Grandfather’s Dad, N. B. Mills, brings to mind great memories of his favorite things. No doubt about his love for fried chicken, and I can’t blame him for one second over that choice. A matter of fact I’m thankful for that heritage of love for fried chicken he helped to pass down. Another thing he enjoyed was peace and quite. Not sure how we can bottle that up and sell it, but he sure loved not hearing doors slam and people coming and going. It could be that Great-Grandpa really didn’t enjoy silence maybe it was that he just enjoyed those around that didn’t act-up or filled themselves with foolishness? Either way, Great Grandpa taught me a lot about people, life and contentment. His life was by no means filled with the “things” I have sought to possess, but his life was filled with keeping what ya got, working hard for what you get and minding your own business. Traits that are need today if only some would take a lesson.
My mother’s Grandfather, George Martin Carnes, Sr., also left upon my life impressions I remember. Not sure if it is good writing to say I was both scared to death and loved him at that same time, but I did. He could have that look that would mess with you, but once you broke through the rough exterior I always saw in him someone that represented a time long past, yet a remaining survivor of hard days and experiences life often hands out.
On Father’s Day 2009 I received an unexpected call from Erik Wesley Thomas. Erik is in Basic Training in the United State Army and with Sunday as the only day of the week for him to have access to his phone, he made sure his father and I heard from him. Erik calls me “uncle” and I’m proud to wear that title. His father and I were college roommates. Training down in Fort Sill, Oklahoma seems to have brought about a new sense of appreciate for those that have taken time to invest in his life. I know it meant the world to me that he called to just say “Happy Father’s Day”.
Not sure what you did or how you celebrated, but at least all of us had a day to say thanks to those that have served the role of Father in our lives. Myself, I am thankful and touched by those in my life and the Father I have also been able to be for them

Until then

Church Plate Full--what's next?

Every generation faces difficult issues, challenging topics and uncertainty. There is a cycle in life that hands each of us a plate full of items that we must address. When people answer the questions of the day they are called progressives. When people look back into history for answers we call them conservatives. There is really not a very good term in today’s setting of issues that defines an individual or an organization that is using both history and dreams together to create answers for our over loaded plates. My love for history is well documents through this column. My belief that the future is ours if we want it, is also well supported. I have addressed many themes of life. The course of years has provided me with a unique opportunity to share my approach to life.
Being knocked down is not any fun. Having dreams and goals to only have those removed from your involvement hurts as well. To suffer from a lack of support from those that you believe should support your ideas, and actually do, is a set back too. For some individuals who once had resources in plenty the loss of those contacts and influence leaves one asking how or why? Involved in the cycle of life is a pattern that we see creates new faces and involvement from others, if we are open to a new day. Many organizations and individuals can not even imagine not being the center or in the “lime light” of happenings. Some simply believe that without their role and involvement the project will end and everything will “fall to pieces” as Patsy Cline once sang.
The truth is that things roll on with or without us. It maybe a suffering blow to our self esteem if we are no longer leading or our opinion is no longer sought after, but that’s just life. As sure as life has a cycle, there will be a new opportunity for you to step up and become involved with a vital roll, if you allow time to tick some.
Politics is a good example. There is always a recycling of ideas and people, as there is nothing new under the sun, just new people at the forefront. Church is a good example of life and the cycles she offers on her plate too. Church is made up of come and go leaders. I have always said that’s why buildings have a front door for coming and a back door for leaving. Sure the dream is to go somewhere and stay forever, but that’s not realistic. Rural settings provide a good picture for things staying put. Just ask any neighbor that moved in and say, “tell me how hard has it been for you to get involved?” I am sure that with their explanation that the past 10 years have been good ones, it has been difficult. Sure, I’m smiling and you should be too, we all know it’s true.
I could write for days about why I think this happens, but I’d rather write that I believe real growth and the best growth comes from being exposed to new ideas and leadership. I know churches that declined after leadership left, and others where it exploded. The best practice for success is to involve lots of folks instead of having a 10 year waiting period to prove you are going to stay around. The church likes litmus test before we release power to individuals. The said part is that I can’t find that in scripture, but then again, lots of churches don’t follow scripture. Our plates are full, what topic will we address next?

Until then

Difficult Experiences and one way to move forward.

If we were to ask individuals what the most difficult time in their life has been, I am certain our ears would hear many different stories. For some listening individuals I am certain their listening ears are not ready to hear the words of their heartache shared. Honest folks would admit, at least to themselves, what the real difficulties and challenges of life are that they face. Often I have given the advice that if you must lie to someone, lie to everyone else, except yourself. The bottom line is that you need to be able to trust yourself, your judgments, and your opinions. I don’t believe you should ever lie, and I am not suggesting that you do, but philosophically speaking, you need to be able to trust yourself. If you lie to yourself, and believe your own lies you are in a world of trouble and heartache to follow.
Difficult moments in life for some individuals are the disappointments from sharing a personal experience or loss only to experience disbelief, are feeling that your experience shared was not respected. Many individuals do not know how to disagree and still be respectful of others and their positions. “Birds of a feather flock together” is a dangerous pattern to fly in. Sure it may ruffle your feathers to hear something you disagree with or something you think is silly or insignificant, but to the person sharing their life, the impact was totally life changing. Facing issues, coming to terms with experiences, and in some situations, learning to forgive yourself is key to having the strength to move forward in all difficult times.
The loss of a loved one is a hurdle that some might never overcome. An accident that leaves someone injured for life is difficult. Being bullied as a youngster has a profound impact on individuals that some are able to brush off as nothing, while others will carry that memory for their lifetime.
Goals are set in our lives so we have direction and purpose to keep moving. Goals in some situations are permanent positions established in life, while others may simply be milepost along life’s highway. One goal I set in my life a long time ago was to treat others I want to be treated. Certainly it is a pattern I have tried to practice, and with some success it has been returned to me. For the most part, I am at peace with my goal, even if I don’t experience the end result I think is appropriate. The heartache with this life experience is that many of those that would never treat you back with respect are sure to demand it out of you for themselves. I’ve learned to smile today when that happens just realizing that I am at least seeing one area that deserves a little work on their part.
A goal in my life has been to always help people. If you understand this article I assume you realize there must have been a time in my life I needed help and could not find it handy or anywhere in sight. In the long rong, it is this experience that helps make us. All of the experiences in our lives have molded us, shaped us, and with our response to that experience, prayerfully it has made us a stronger and better person that is able to make a difference in the lives of others through our experience.
Life may not be all you wanted it to be in the past, but certainly the future can be ours to enjoy, if we stand up, and begin to take steps forward. New goals and new experiences can replace failures and hard times if we look to new beginnings. I have found my new beginning that is renewed each day, it is in Jesus Christ.

Until then

Joshua A Brock - Purple Heart Recipient

With each passing Memorial Day Holiday I am reminded of the great heritage passed to each of us as citizens of the United States. Memorial Day and Veterans Day are two unique holidays that we can honor the veterans that have provided democracy’s forward rights because of their service and sacrifice.
Moments like such give us an opportunity to salute those men and women with our grateful tributes. In my family, I have memories of family members that shared their lives with me through their experiences. My Great Uncle, Oscar Mills, served and suffered because of his war injuries. He wasn’t a complaining person at all, but the rare moments that he did talk you could always see a thousand more words not spoken in his facial expressions and gestures when talking.
May 2006, is a month and year personal experience that I now also reflect. That was when I arrived for the first time in my life at Walter Reed Hospital. Walter Reed and Bethesda are the two hospitals here in the U.S. that is the medical facilities that our wounded soldiers now arrive at from their overseas service, once wounded. Joshua A Brock who served two tours of duty with the U.S. Army as a member of the Kentucky National Guard was flown from German to Walter Reed after sustaining injuries from an I.E.D., while manning guard on a building for the an office of the Iraq Police in his second tour. His first duty call was made while he was a student at Union College in Barbourville, where he was also a member of the Union College Men’s Basketball Program. Joshua was a stand out during his high school days at Bell County High School in Pineville, Ky.
During Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF), he was a member then of the Kentucky National Guards Unit in London, Ky. Those soldiers were the first from the 149th in Southeastern Kentucky to step forward in defense of our nations military actions in what was then the “new war on terrorism”. Today, there is no more “new war”. We are now and forever hence, will be involved in a war on terrorism. After returning home Joshua joined the Middlesboro Unit of the 149th and as time passed ordered were received that placed them on buses and airplanes that would land them in Iraq on the frontlines. Because of his previous deployment, Joshua was not required to suit up and bear arms again, but he did. To excuse him self from that service was not a part of his character then, nor is it today. In our discussion of options a line I will never forget is with benefits there is always responsibility, and Joshua A Brock did not wavier on his duty.
His 10 day leave he received near the end of his 2nd tour of duty, and it was just a couple weeks upon returning to the war theater he was wounded with the I.E.D. that exploded while in guard position on an Iraq roof top. When you are notified by official communications from the Defense Department, there is relief to learn is a medical team and not the Office of the Chaplain.
A Purple Heart for your service and recognition of your sacrifice is always appreciated and respected. Personally, my gratefulness is having an American Hero still alive and among me and us. While today the specific holiday has passed, everyday is a perfect opportunity for us to salute those who have served and to pray for those who are serving. The Bible says to give honor and respect to whom it is due, and this “pops” is doing such now with a grateful heart.

Until then

Evan Miller - Appreciative Priorities

Who is it we really appreciate? A great question to ask, and no, this column is not a missed article from February. Thinking about the people that we appreciate and the folks that we are grateful to is not really hard to figure out. Most of the folks I know, including myself, appreciate the folks that do things for you.
For the past three weeks my computer has been in a self destruct mode. It all began with the first diagnosis. It appeared that my computer was over heating and it also appeared I was the reason for this. It seems that because I never turn my computer off, and because it appeared that it was not sit upon something that would properly allow air to be drawn from underneath the computer to cool the system, this was the issue. Seemed like an easy fix. The cost was estimated to be $10.19 for the part alone and that seemed reasonable enough. The repair order was made but it would only be a day or two before it appeared that replacement of that part was not going to be the fix-it-all I had prayed for.
Now I am not complaining, but you know how it goes. The day was soon two days, then it was a week, and well, you get the picture. The one thing that was certain, my computer man was on addressing the problem. Areas of expertise are what an individual goes to school for. Areas of expertise are why we are able to demand fees and charges for our services. Areas of expertise also become the reason why such studied and skill workers are able to tell unlearned computer folks like myself that I will need to be patient and wait. Me, waiting, well this is not my specialty, but nevertheless, I find my self developing that talent as time passes because of the assistance of others. Having written this for the official record, I confess, my computer expert Evan Miller, has made me a totally happy satisfied restored computer user. Thus he has my total appreciation.
What has created this column is the fact that I am most thankful for Evan and his work to get my computer back up and running. Sure, he resorted my computer files, recaptured my contacts, emails, pictures, and all my word documents. Yes, without his assistance I would have lost paperwork and communications that I deem important and some irreplaceable. I really appreciate his efforts, skills and time he devoted to my cause.
As I think about my appreciation for him as my ‘computer guy”, I am taken back as I think about the folks we appreciate. Considering the fact that we appreciate folks that do simple things and skilled work on our behalf, Why would we not be as grateful to a man who would become our Savior, removed all our sins, restore us to a solid standing, give us re-birth to a new inheritance, and held all we had done against us no more? It is a valid question that desires an answer with due respect to my appreciation for my computer expert. Jesus, the Master Expert of forgiveness of sin. Jesus, the Expert in new beginnings, Jesus, a friend that sticks by closer than a brother. Why we would not be appreciative even more so to Jesus than a friend from down the street.
Not sure if you appreciate Jesus or not. I have been convicted that if I am not careful, it may very well my appreciative list is not in proper order. Personally, I am thinking this is a perfect day to get things squared away, whether my computer is working or not.

Until then

Jerry Wayne Garland, Sr. "Unexpected Events of Life"

Unexpected events in life provide smiles, memories and heartache. The announcement of a pregnancy brings a smile as a new journey and experience begins. Memories of a time and place create laughter that fills the air as you think about a time that will no doubt ever be duplicated again. Heartache is also involved in the events of life. Heartache could begin with the loss of a game involving sports to the full spectrum of life’s events, including the loss of life.
The name, Jerry Wayne Garland, Sr., provides all three of the life providing experiences I have written. Certainly the people of Knox County, where his family originates and their family roots are solid with a strong background may feel the direct impact of his death, but throughout Southeastern Kentucky his interest and investments have also been impacted because of his vision, leadership and willingness to volunteer and be a part of things all over, and not just his direct community.
Name a city or county in Southeastern Kentucky and it will take just a second to name a business, special project, an organization or individuals that his involvement mattered. One of the strengths of his name, Jerry Wayne Garland, Sr., is not the focus of his individual interest, as there were many. His strength being reflected with these expected events is his interest is others. He enjoyed watching others become successful in pursuit of their goals. He enjoyed being a part of the achievement of others without any public acknowledgment or credit. Something that is very rare, but something that many, I included, experienced and now reflect. From the use of equipment; helping to level apiece of land; cleaning out a ditch; pulling a car down the road; or providing a listening ear to a neighbor or passing stranger; Jerry Wayne Garland, Sr., was a person that made a difference in the lives of many. Not mentioned until now are the employees through his various business ventures. Their lives through employment and benefits have certainly been impacted positively too.
Smiles, memories and heartache. If it were possible to eliminate the negative events from our lives I am certain many of us would have signed up yesterday. Life is a journey here on earth that has many unexpected events that fill each day, week, month and year. Some are welcomed events even though unexpected while others one would plan for a permanent delay if possible.
If your life was touched by Jerry then you understand fully where my words are coming from as I describe a friend that we found in him. The disciples in a moment of walking down the mountain were pressing Jesus to keep moving forward within the crowd. Jesus however didn’t listen to them and stopped to touch people on the way in His journey. It was good to have someone like Jerry pass my way and I’m glad he stopped in my life.

Until then

Druther's Resturant - A piece of History

If you have the hobby of collecting I am just curious why you save or collect what you do? I have several things that I like to collect. I am a big Royal Crown fan, and even a bigger Squirt Soda fan, so anything along those lines, I get excited about. I also love cowboy boots. I won’t write just how many I have, but, let’s just say I have several pairs I have collected over the years. This collect by the way is a “let’s wear’em” collection. So if you see me in Red Snake Skins you can just know that I am enjoying myself.
When one collects things I often think of old things, or things that use to be. Growing up in Southeastern Kentucky one of the famous locations we older folks made frequent stops to would have been Druther’s. Remember that fast food restaurant? Williamsburg had one, Corbin had one, Barbourville had one, Pineville had one, and even Middlesboro had one. I loved the potato wedges especially. You could always get a great ham and cheese too, or at least that would have been another favorite of mine when it came ordering time.
Recently I was traveling in Taylor County, Kentucky. What I discovered in the City of Campbellsville caused me to make a complete u-turn. It had been at least since 1983 that I had seen a Druther’s, but low and behold, there was a Druther’s sitting just as I remembered from back in the day. Outside on the marquee was the special, “two cheeseburgers for a $1.00”. With such hard economic times I was tempted to order me up a dozen at that pricing! Of course you can rest assured I asked if they had wedges, and they did, so that was ordered too. Once I got through ordering my “memory special”, I said, I didn’t know that Druther’s was still in existence. The employee informed me that I was eating at the last one in the United States. At that moment I felt like King of the World. I thought about trying to collect the big Druther’s Sign, but couldn’t fit that in my car…ha, ha.
Collecting is a lot of fun but being reminded is also just as much fun. One of the things I am often reminded of is the grace and mercy that Jesus Christ provides to his children. I am reminded when I think about problems I am facing that He is always there. When I think about decisions that I have to make, I am reminded that He is a friend that provides clear directions and wisdom, if we ask.
Life has many great moments that we can enjoy. Memories that are created from looking at all kinds of different things. Memories from favorite restaurants, to moments with friends all are good ways for us to be reminded that Jesus Christ cares about us, and even if we were to think that somehow he has forgotten us, or moved on with us, we need to re-think again. I thought that Druther’s was long gone, but I only had to be in the right city to learn that I was wrong.
When you experience a moment when you are wondering where He is, or what He is doing, I might recommend you stop your travels, do a turn around where you are and look back to see He is still right there. We certainly have a friend that sticks by closer then a brother, and that’s a good thing to collect.

Until then