My First Chrstmas in Heaven

I first published this poem in the Corbin Times Tribune in December 1998. Each year after the column is published I appreciate the cards, notes, and the emails you send. Your stories and comments of how this poem impacts yours memories and thoughts our loved ones is such an encouragement personally. A friend reached out to minister to me by sending me this poem after the passing of my grandfather, C. Hobert Mills, and for the past 12 years I have reflected not only about his first Christmas in Heaven, but that of family and friends who have passed this year. My prayer is that during this time of the year you will find a reason to smile through faith, hope and love, found in Jesus.

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

Thanksgiving - a deliberate action; Scott Thomas; Gary Minton; Jimmy Leach; Dennis Goodman;

My practice during the Season of Thanks is to write my personal expressions of thanks to individuals who have made a difference in my life, because they gave. I began this practice simply through an effort one year to share my appreciation through the action of honor and remembrance. Over the years I have been humbled by the responses from those I have mention, their families and even folks who never knew them but some how through this column they thought and remember others who had touched their lives. For all of those I want to say thanks. Your encouragement has made a difference in my life. Your actions were unexpected and today I must say thanks as I write this column of thanks, beginning with you.
The different periods of my life I have attempted to mark with no order or system in place. Simply remembering each year folks from childhood to adulthood is the only plan. Regrets I have a few. Helen Martin was an individual I would have loved to have seen before she passed. She was a lady of Catholic faith that gave me my first cross of memory. I always wanted to say thanks and compare my childhood reflections with an adult perspective but she died before that opportunity ever availed itself. My regret is not being able to say thanks for the memories she created that I’ve cherished all these years.
In college I had many different stages and periods from which to reflect. Judge Pleas Jones from Williamsburg, Ky., is one individual I am grateful for. Having been diagnosed with Sero-Negative Arthritis at 21 years of age was not in my plans, but Judge Jones was a friend in deed because he helped a person in need-me. A wheel chair is not the way one wants to get around, and thanks I owe to many. Jimmy Leach from Middlesboro, Ky was a willing hand to push a guy around. Scott Thomas in Florence and Gary Minton in Somerset, Ky make my Hall of Thanks too. There is no doubt that you can discover real friendships from the struggles and battles of life. Fighting to live may seem like an over aggregated given my current ability to walk and run today, but had you been there back then you could understand my commitment to thanks now.
Dennis Goodman served as a Youth Extension Specialist with the University of Kentucky and served thousands of youth through Kentucky 4-H. Dennis was an adult who believed that youths had ideas, opinions, and he valued their considerations just as important as his own. He believed in enabling youths to explore both their skills and talents. That desire to help young people success is a unique characteristic that embodied Dennis totally. He impacted students in all 120 counties of Kentucky. He was raised Episcopalian, lived as a Methodist and I joked at his funeral he expected a Baptist to get him all the way into Heaven. I am most grateful for his influence and I credit him as one of those adults who shaped my life into who I am and what I believe. If your child was a part of the Kentucky State 4-H Teen Council then Dennis Goodman is a name you too appreciate.
Thanksgiving is a most special time of the year and the author of thanks has provided each of us with this opportunity to highlight the lives of others by saying thanks to those that have molded us and given of themselves. Now it is time for us to give of ourselves to the benefit of others.

Until then

Thanksgiving - A Season to Appreciate

I have written for the past several years during this season what I have entitled my season of thanks. Thanksgiving has long been my favorite time of the year because of the changing of the colors outside, the cold wind that begins to blow and the ever green that highlights the trees that are bear of leaves. I enjoy pumpkins and seeds. I love the idea of thanks and the reflection of things given by others, like time, advice and friendship. The holiday season of Thanksgiving is short lived in the market place, surrounded by Halloween and Christmas, but I refuse to short change a season that allows me a change to honor individuals, show respect for times past, and say thanks to the influence of many in my life.
For those shorting changing Thanksgiving Season, it could be described as a “quick meal before the rush of Christmas and the arrival of the new year.” As a baby boomer I’m young enough and old enough to remember the way things once were compared to the present celebration of the season. Thanksgiving was always big around my family home. It was a time for sitting on the porch, rocking in an old green rocking chair at my grandparents, observing and participating in the killing of a hog that would be covered with salt and then placed in the smokehouse to season as just a few of the old memories I cherish today. I’m young enough to have witnessed the changing of the guard from then to now too. I never remember a Black Friday sale growing up. That was something for the big cities. In our small towns and communities stores were always closed during Thanksgiving as families were together. It was a time for going to the woods to a favorite tree stand looking for the perfect buck to pass. Of course when I was growing up, the great Cumberland Gap Parkway was know simply as 25e back then and the four lane was only from Corbin to Turkey Creek. You will not hear anyone saying thanks to Governor Julian Carroll for that effort, but one section at a time is progress for a region that is slow to change. Pineville had the Golden Bell and Martin’s for shopping, and Barbourville had the best men’s clothing store in southeastern Kentucky, Sowder’s Men’s Store. You could buy the best suit and a hat all right here at home.
Traveling to Corbin met going to the biggest showing center around. Belks, JC Penney’s, who could have asked for more back then? Don’t forget Corbin had the movie theater and a Pizza Hut too. Ok, for those reading who young and believe I just had a misprint I didn’t. I remember very well the day Pizza Hut arrived in Pineville and Barbourville. Of course, Pizza Hut in Middlesboro has been around forever but traveling to Middlesboro over Log Mountain before 25e was like going to Corbin. Just not something you did unless you just had to.
Change is an interesting event in our beloved mountains and thanks is a corner stone of our character as mountain people. Remember those who once walked among us giving and sharing of their time, talents and energies is a trademark of our people too. Today we have stores in all of our towns from Williamsburg to Middlesboro, with malls and strip malls dotting our landscapes and before Halloween was even here, Christmas items and markdowns were hitting the shelves eliminating Thanksgiving almost all together except for a Thanksgiving Meal Deal that allows for the choice of a turkey or a ham.
All I know is that the Season of Thanksgiving is far to important to be delegated to a single moment of our lives that includes a meal and a couple hours of family time. It maybe you will not see your family at all on Thanksgiving Day, but that doesn’t mean the reason for the season is missed in the least

Until then.

Larry D Hammonds - "we were blessed"

During this election season it seems most appropriate to ask what drives an individual to run for political office. A thought to consider of equal importance is what values do we cherish in those that we vote for and work to elect? Honesty should be at the top of our list as voters, but that trait seems not to be in the action of many elected officials. Straight answers are seldom heard today from the courthouse to the White House. Most politicians struggle to address issues that require compromise, working with others, and ethics that treat everyone with respect. Character should be a value we look for in those seeking public office but it can be a difficult find. The best way to discover character is to look at the local community where an individual lives and see what they have been involved with, the activities they have participated in, and the effort they have given to serving others. Family is another key to review. Observing the work ethic of their spouse and children is a good way to determine what values they were able to see in others, their ability to make decisions and what they have been able to instill by example and relationship.
I would like to write that it is easy to find individuals to serve the public, but it is not. It is hard to find individuals that are not a part of some political machine, and most importantly that wants to serve and understands sacrificing a part of their self to make a difference for the benefit of others is a part of leadership. Finding those types of servants is difficult. Those individuals are rare, but they do exist and Larry Hammonds, Jailer of Knox County, Kentucky was one we seek to find. Larry Hammonds was a policy maker, so yes he was a politician, but his political manners came from a heart that was based on a life filled with service, respectful thoughts and considerations of others, with a genuine handshake and smile.
His decision to seek public office was a good personal decision and the residences of Knox County were well served. Larry served all the people of Knox County with dignity and he treated those incarcerated and their family with every courtesy the comes from a lifetime of seeing value in people. Credit for that leadership goes to his parents who lived and taught Christian values and credit to Larry who through his personal relationship with Jesus Christ practice Christian virtues. As a volunteer fire fighter, sacrifice and responsibility are a part of the call to duty that requires a response to help, that he answered. His commitment as a church member was witnessed by his church in his election as a Deacon at Turkey Creek Baptist Church. His friendships from childhood to adulthood earned him respect and his election as a law enforcement official serving the Office of Jailer.
Mary, thanks for sharing your husband with all of us. Jennifer and Jamirae, your father gave his very best to you, and now you have the honor of continuing his tradition by sharing his influence with your families and continuing the rich history your parents have provided to each of you. My prayer is that during this season of election we will each elect to allow Jesus to touch our lives as He did your fathers.

Until then

The challenge of errors and mistakes

Of all the challenges we each face, the biggest challenge to overcome is correcting the errors or mistakes we’ve each made in life. If you happen to be the sort of person that has never made a mistake then this column will not have much meaning. I assume to you, it will be just an interesting opinion that was written for everyone else. Self realization can be a difficult challenge in and of itself. Admitting our short comings is not the type of thing we grow up having conversations about. You will not attend a conference or a workshop sponsored by your employer the helps individuals to talk about their mistakes. Thus the difficulty at hand is how we deal with our errors-or the wrong decisions we’ve made.
For the record, there are some organizations that talk about mistakes and issues individuals face but these are all confidential settings and those sponsoring organizations are groups like AA which is the biggest that comes to my mind. For those that have never made a mistake, it is easy to judge individuals who would attend such a group and consider those participating to be a sub-type that doesn’t comparing to you. The Bible has some great advice for those willing to step up to the challenge and over overcome their individual mistakes. I personally have always been challenged with the Bible recommendation to remember that any fault I see another person facing, that could just as easy be me. When you realize that the only difference between you and others is the answers we accepted or gave this is a start. I have shared with individuals many times in counseling conferences that I understand what drugs are and when I was asked if I wanted any I always said no. That decision doesn’t make me any better then those that said yes, but my answer provided me greater opportunity instead of limiting my options because of my decision. Remembering that the situation we witness others in could just as easily by yourself creates a sense of understanding and a taste of mercy that makes you want to share it with others.
The next step in correcting our errors and mistakes is to learn from those situations. The desire to experience mercy and understanding is something most folks don’t have any problem with requesting. We want judges in district and circuit courts to dismiss our tickets and to forgive or mistakes. We want teachers and professors allow us to turn our papers in late and not on time. We want our parents to help us, and if they punish us, we want them to change the discipline after we serves some of our “time out”. Forgiveness once, we can easily agree with as a good practice but what about request, 3, 4, and 5? If we are continuing to repeat these types of moments, it’s pretty clear that we are not learning from our mistakes how to correct them; we are only learning to keep asking for another chance.
Correcting the errors in choices we’ve made or decisions we elected are neither always easy nor fun. One thing is for certain. If we remember and learn as we go we are miles ahead in reaching the ultimate destination and Jesus is a great friend for the journey.

Until then

The Art of Conversation

The value of conversation could almost be considered a lost practice today in this age of emails, voice mail, text messages, and instant messages. Many things are changing around us. There was a time individuals had to pick up the mail everyday from the post office if you expected to receive your bills and more especially receive payroll checks or maybe benefits from the government. Well those days are almost gone as companies use direct deposit to pay employees; even the government uses debit and credit card systems for benefits. Those monthly bills that once grew into a stack on desk and tables in our homes have been replaced by green friendly billing. Who imagined that we would go to an inbox and not a mail box to receive monthly statements and invoices? Even more imagination would have been needed thinking that just 20 years ago we would be paying our bills on-line from internet banking systems much less just going to individual website and placing our personal and sensitive information out there in the air waves of the untamed internet?
Lots of changes have been occurring. I’m not saying that any of these mentioned and bad or not useful, I’m only saying “wow, things are really different from just a few years ago and the pace of new arrivals in methods and techniques are at flood stage.” There is one art that we must recapture and that is the art of conversation. When I think about the problems that are faced by some families and individuals it is easy to ask the question have you spoken with anyone about this? The shock is in the answer that most have not talked with anyone about possible answers or solutions and thus the art of conversation and the value of listening and observing others is slipping quickly from a practice that is fundamental to interpersonal development.
Having helped and worked with individuals facing the issue of drug abuse, listening is vital to hearing the truth, and for many individuals finding folks to just talk—yes, small talk is a difficult task. In our pace as movers and shakers it is sad to see folks not willing to spend any length of time in just hearing someone out, or listening to their position on a subject. I would encourage everyone to find someone to talk with, someone to express ideas to, and someone to share moments with that build and strengthen relationship, all because of time shared talking.
It could be that you are reading this column and thinking, I don’t know anyone to just sit and talk with. Could be you have discovered a silent period in your life where no one is engaging you in questions which makes for a guaranteed time of loneliness and quite. I would suggest there is a friend who listens well. I’ve discovered in Jesus Christ that someone. Not only does he listen well but He speaks back in profound ways that make a real impression and sometimes shake me to my inner core. The art of conversation is a treasure that needs to be recaptured in our lives and if you have no one to talk with please allow me to recommend my friend Jesus. You will discover strength and courage from sharing and listening, give it a try today.

Until then

Thinking before the fact

Of all the personal struggles any individual will ever face is the surprise announcement that you have been terminated from your employment. For those who have experienced this moment in life, even if you had written warning and verbal acknowledgements regarding performance or actions, that single moment is still a shock and immediate setback. The bigger self-attack is that unexpected office meeting where you had no fore warning or hint of the ambush you were walking into. There are many situations we will naturally bump into throughout life that we don’t need to have pop up events to keep us always hopping around life as a game of hopscotch.
While you are considering what you might do with the release of such news as “you’re fired” the first I advice is to practice this moment before it happens. I know this may sound a bit out of the norm but it is really good advice to be prepared. Rehearsing responses to various types of possible situations is a great way to hear what you’re thinking aloud and a great way to practice what you should say even when you’d like to just sound off and say what you are feeling at the moment. At the outset, that sounds like good advice too. It’s only when you stop and think about the later impact of just saying what you think when you realize that most of the time “running off at the mouth” is never good. I have a full list of people, places and comments that many wish they had never said, and wish they could take back from the ear memory of those that heard.
Best advice one could ear hear today might be from President Abraham Lincoln, when he said, “better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt”. I smile when I quote that to myself often, because I know of things I wish I would not have said, but did. Learning to listen and thinking (practicing) before you speak is a great beginning to handling situations that just pop up in life. Death is a greeting of life that hands surprises. If we thinking about the moment of death before it arrives we can be prepared, no matter the hour. Why not have discussions with a funeral director sharing your wishes so others can find you’re planning as the perfect answer for their unexpected announcement of your death? One thing that I can share is that if you begin with this type of conversation now, you will more than likely discover the answers you are looking for through mature listening, thinking and planning.
So you have a job loss tomorrow when you arrive at work. You are unprepared and have made no thought about tomorrow, what’s next? Why not let your answer be I’m not totally ready, but because I’ve thought about this before, I am able to lower the lingering affect by preparation.
I often hear folks say, I’m not sure what I need to do about a relationship with Jesus Christ. They plan to do something someday, but do nothing in the mean time except to say, I’m planning. Additional advice for being prepared for life begins with a personal conversation with Jesus. You don’t have to invite Him into your heart during the first conversation but if you listen and take the beginning step or an additional step now, you will be at least one step closer to the perfect final destination.

Until then

Questions are a difficult question to ask

Questions are a most difficult question to ask. Sorry I had to have just a little play on words. Asking someone to re-explain something they have just said and presented is intimidating for many folks. Questions that are asked in a probing way to discover information can certainly be a challenge for both the individual asking the question and the person providing the answer and explanation. As a child before one has developed the skill of speech adults, brothers and sisters asked little ones questions and we accept a head shake one-way or another as the provided answer. With personal growth and maturity, as adults, we look at others and expect them to be able deliver an answer with specific details that in essence brings our question to a conclusion.
In the Bible there are many examples about questions. Brothers James and John asked if they could sit on the right hand of the Father. That was a bold question! Other Bible questions include the question of who sinned in probing the wonderment of why one might not be perfect in everyway. Now that is a question folks still ask today when looking at others and wanting to place blame for one reason or another. There are many examples of questions not asked in the Bible that are presented in such a way that require us to develop a pattern for research in our wondering. Those types of questions also require a growing relationship with the source of help when seeking answers. If you are a student writing a thesis in high school or a undergraduate student writing a position paper you will need to develop a relationship with the library. That will need to be a growing relationship too. We lead first and second grade students into the library for the first times in their lives to begin their relationship by introducing them to that quiet place. Later we show them how to find resources and we explain the various categories and how things are shelved by topic, and author. We hope that these steps and assistance will create inside of every child a love for learning and the courage to go and seek out answers and experience things through reading, looking and listening.
I wish I could give myself credit for the next statement I’m about to share but I cannot. I wish I could write who or where I was when I first heard the statement but I can’t recall either. I’ve quoted this statement as advice to others for years. I’ve shared it with many as encouragement and today is marked as just one more opportunity. If we could spring forward in our lives 20 years we will discover that the we will be the same person then that we are today with four exceptions. Four things that will make a difference are: 1) The books we read; 2) The places we go; 3) The experiences we have;4) The people we meet; The great idea behind this thought is that at any age we can begin the process of becoming different from just these consideration. How about asking for a recommendation of a good book, or asking a question about a location to visit from a trusted source? How about asking a friend a question to share about an experience that has changed their life and how about asking someone to sit and talk even if you’ve never met them before?
There is a lot to discover if we would only be willing to step outside of our world and be willing to see what is outside of what we know currently. In a relationship with Jesus Christ I’ve discovered the opportunity to really be challenged is up to me.

Until then

Nasty Taste or Perfect Mix

The bitterness of life has a nasty taste. It can be further stated that the aftertaste can remain for a long time on the taste buds too. There are many things that offer up the unsavory things of life. Some of these ‘meal creations’ we create on our own. When my grandmother Stella Mills would whip up some of her biscuits or even better yet some homemade syrup all I can say is it was great! But that great taste came through years of perfecting the art of throwing flour, eggs, salt and other ingredient together and mixing them with her unique fist roll. I am extremely confident that grandmother’s cooking was not always so great. I can imagine as a little girl she watched her mother and my great-grandmother cooking as a child, observing the process. Gradually I suspect they began to hand over a few details until grandma could prepare a meal all by herself.
As a child I know my first love of the kitchen began to really grow when my mother would be mixing up a cake. I always made sure I had frequent stops in the kitchen when that was happening so I could hear my mother ask if I’d like to lick the spoon. Now we are talking right? If you are not smiling as you read this you must be allergic to cakes or never been asked to clean up the cake batter mix with your finger. I guess there must be something that separates all of us apart from the other and if that childhood experience is my stepping stone I’ll accept it gladly knowing I also have the extra pounds to show just how many of those special clean up jobs I’ve taken care of.
Focusing on the toughness of life is another experience that no doubt sets people apart. One fact for sure, we’ve all had some bitter tasting moments that we had rather not experienced. I could wager my left foot that all of us know of moments that just make you sick because of things that must be dealt with. Tasting the moments of life individually I personally would not recommend. It’s like tasting the individual ingredients that make up biscuits. Buttermilk alone could be good but I never could drink that all alone. I love a fried egg but raw I never could stomach. Salt is ok of course but that’s just one item out of several, which is much like life. When we are experiencing tough moments we should not try to swallow all of it at once. Chocking was never a favorite experience of mine either. Life sometimes is like trying a new food. Taste just a little and see what you think before you take a big ole bite. In cooking all the good cooks always taste their food as they prepare the meal. Adding just a little of this or pinch of that to create the perfect dish for enjoyment.
Today you could have experienced a perfect day in your books, but tomorrow heartache maybe just around the corner. The test for our skills tomorrow is to remember yesterday was a good day and this bad today we are having will be over in a few hours and we have a new opportunity with the next sunrise. Many individuals will let a single bad taste or experience keep them from ever trying something different or believing that a bunch of single “not so great tasting items” mixed together can come out right, but it can.
Romans 8:28 says that “God works all things out together to the good, for those that love Him and are called according to His purpose”. You may not always like every moment of every day but one bad day a week is nothing. One bad week a month is nothing and even one bad month a year is a small fraction of time when you look at the big picture. Don’t give up, keep pressing on and give a little time for everything to mix together and then you may find yourself going back to the kitchen waiting, watching and looking for the good stuff.

Until then

Lots of thoughts......

This past week I had a big moment, in my mind at least. I was listening to talk radio and the discussion was all about the November elections and who would control Congress. News forums are all talking about the Democrats losing control of the Senate and House of Representatives if the Tea Party candidates win and are seated as Republicans in the new Congress. The Republican Party issues are that those who just won their primaries discovered their biggest opponent to be the Old Republican Party and the Tea Party Moment appears to be the New Republican Party which includes lots of debate and unrest. In the radio commentary the statement was made by a Member of Congress that he believed in what he was doing and he wanted to represent all of the people of the United States.
Listening to that statement being said struck me as most interesting. My big mind moment was don’t we elect our individual Members of Congress to represent our specific districts? Maybe my Civic teacher in high school left that lesson out and we never had a discussion about that issue, but I remember well, we did. Congressman Harold Rogers could in a general way, say he represents all the Citizens of the United States of America, but his primary focus and his energy should be in representing the people of his District. Kentucky’s entire Congressional Delegation should all work together for Kentucky’s good as a whole, yes, that’s general, but that is an interested shared in common that is easily understood. I would agree that you don’t hear or see that taking place unless everyone’s in the same political party and affiliation. That would mean elected officials see the good in each other and see the value of others over a political party idea, position, or platform. That would be corporation if that occurred but because of political unrest and continued indifference even within the specific political parties nobody seems to want to help anyone except themselves and no one believes in appreciating any opinion that is different from theirs.
Now I am a Christian and I believe in Biblical principals. I feel quite strong about my beliefs and I am firmly committed to those positions. Yet, I realize I often fall short in my witness of Christianity and there are many questions that I’d love to have answers to right now, but that’s not so. I am a Maroon and White Bobcat. No disrespect to the Blue and White Bobcats of Bell County today, but I love a different color. In Bell County I had great friendships with students who went to Long Jack but I know others who hated people just because of one school over another; In Knox County I had a great experience teaching at Lynn Camp High School. My parents both graduated from Knox Central and the gym is named after my cousin Don Bingham. Opps, I forgot, Danny Green at Lynn Camp and he is an old high school and family friend, who am I to support? Maybe I should not write anything and just be quite? No doubt -- I could be upsetting someone for sure and some will think I’m picking sides!
Not sure when doing the right thing whenever and wherever was lost, but it’s clear it is missing in many situations, organizations and opportunities. In today’s world there is one connection I can suggest that still has a singular focus. The leadership is truly about putting others first and the plan works. For God so Loved the World He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes shall be saved. Now that’s different!

Until then

Final

There is one word that I believe most of us do not want to hear. Final is a word that could be positive without a doubt. In grade school the teacher would often say, “use that word in a sentence”, and I can. It is final, we have accomplished our goal. Now that’s positive but there is an aspect of the word final that is not so welcomed. There is a popular television show where the question is asked, “Is that your final answer”? Certainly if someone is asking us that question there is some weight that goes along with our answer because it sounds as if the next action means a change with no correction.
Final is a difficult word to embrace. In attempting to understand how we get to that final moment we should establish a couple points that we can agree on.: 1 – There are many steps to reaching a final decision; 2 – A clear understanding comes with a statement like, “we are in the final stages”. We can clearly hear the additional steps even in a final stage; 3 – The last moment often arrives and catches us off guard even while we know the presence of difficult things, or a day that approaching that is final.
Attempts to recapture moments that were so awesome once often are unsuccessful. For something to have been so positive and valuable we find ourselves only able to cherish it as a memory. We can give good faith and effort to be the same type of person that helped create that great moment but in honest truth, that moment has a final element in its character and we remain with only the pleasure of having been there to experience it. I’ve been in final moments of life many times with families, couples, employment and even friendships. Finding a new connection after a decision has been made is often challenging and the moment provides us with many questions about our decision that leave us wondering what we have done, or experienced.
In the Bible scripture says that we can be confident of one thing. If we believe that God started something, then we should just relax and trust Him because He will finish the task. That sure seems pretty final. Scripture also instructs us to press forward toward that goal, and that sure seems like a lot of work, but there is another scripture that also says that you and I can do anything through Him. Hum?, seems like a pretty final statement about outcome if I will only work, press and believe.
Today I am confident that many who are reading this column are facing some final decisions. Some are final decisions about financial matters, relationships, medical choice, and these decisions could include what we believe, or what we accept. No one wants second best, we all want the very best. Folks don’t wish people some success, and folks don’t pray that people will experience a little faith. We wish BIG and we pray BIG. We want a complete miracle before us, we want the wish to actually be bigger then we can dream so we can be totally overtaken when it arrives. We humans are funny in our way of thing and we are no doubt greedy in our expectations of all things, except final things.
The Bible says there is a day that the Savior of the world will return and He is returning for his Bride that will be ready. WOW, I’ve been in enough weddings to understanding last minute task, and rushes that create headaches and stress. For some reason I just don’t believe that’s the way He is expecting to find us, on his final return.

Until then

Happy Birthday to YOU~!

I hope you are ready for a readers quiz because this week I’ve got test time on my typing finger tips. The test question is: What song is the most sung song in America? Depending on which reading arena you find yourself in, you will have a different song for each of the segments. Rock n’ Roll maybe Elvis or Michael Jackson, for Easy Listening, James Taylor would be an artist with plenty to choose from. In the church arena I am thinking Amazing Grace will be the number one song selected there, but I believe the answer to the question of #1 song sung in America-----Happy Birthday!
There is not a single day that this song is not sung in multiple languages including signing and the words of the song are sent “as singing” in text messages, and emails thousands of times everyday. If I asked the church arena why Amazing Grace is so special you are going to hear all kinds of different answers, but what’s the deal with the Happy Birthday song? Some maybe thinking there is nothing special about it other then it’s the day you were born and we sing the song because it is the National Anthem of Birthdays. Now I’ve not conducted any special research into how the song even came about but besides a tune that sings well for even those that cannot sing we all smile when we do it. There is something about that song but what is it?
When we are at a local restaurant that sings and claps we always watch or look over, why? Is it to watch someone be embarrassed, well that could be but I doubt that is the real reason. A birthday is not about anybody else, except you, which makes it special. One could ask why at birthday parties we don’t tell the birthday celebrant their parents did a great job? Why?...because we don’t honor the person whose birthday we celebrate where there were born, not to whom they were born, or even who was there when they were born. We don’t even thank the doctor or hospitals were the miracle of birth occurred…hum…why not? It does seem appropriate but it is not our standard or practice to do that, our standard is ice cream, cake and the singing of America’s favorite song.
As a Christian I think that singing Happy Birthday is or could be a very spiritual moment actually. With explanation and emphasis a birthday celebration could be some kind of way to honor the hand-i-work of God. Consider first that we should mention your earthly parents because the Bible says that Children are a “Blessing of the Lord”, doesn’t say anything about born inside or outside of marriage, just a “Blessing” directly from the Lord, now that is something! Consider the fact that each person that celebrates a birthday was created in the image of God. Now that could be scary for some based upon looks, but nevertheless, being created in the image of the one that created all things, that is something! Consider that each birthday celebration is honoring an individual that has also been uniquely gifted with talents given by God. Consider that the person celebrating a birthday was so loved by God that He died for them long before they even arrived just because He loved them!
There is a lot to consider when singing a simple song like Happy Birthday. Personally I am not sure what your selection is about the #1 song sung in America, but I certainly do hope that the next time you sing Happy Birthday, you will at least remember this column and the thoughts to consider about how special it really is to have a birthday!

Until then

Just a lttle Jesus is a great start

In good law enforcement fashion, stating the facts as they are and evaluating the scene and evidence gathered are always good things when attempting to come to a conclusion or a position. Discovery is a nice legal word that an attorney may use when preparing a case and he wants to talk about a time period that is important in reviewing information. Our lives as humans could certainly use some old fashion law enforcement techniques from time to time. Building a strong foundation of character is not easy. I enjoy the television insurance commercial where you walking into that special room, just name your coverage and it happens, all you’ve got to do is say yes! Wouldn’t that be great if in building our own lives with character we could do something like that? No one would mind if the world watched either.
I doubt seriously if most folks think about law enforcement and the image of lights and the sound of sirens blaring doesn’t come to thought. I’m not sure why, but flashing lights is fun, unless they are in your rear view mirror. In thinking about our individual lives sometimes we need an emergency situation to cause our attention to focus or to bring us to a slower speed or even a stop on the road of life. When I think about such moments in my life the first thought is that flashing lights is not always a bad thing. It could be flashing lights on a sign that are there to simply provide warning of a possible condition or even danger that exists. It is the sound of that yelp or wale that really catches our attention, but if the siren passes us by we naturally express a sigh of relief thinking of guilty and then relief that it’s not us being pulled over, then your mind flashes wondering what’s happened, is there an accident ahead, what’s the emergency.
Facts can be difficult because of required explanation. Gathering evidence can be time consuming and exhausting. Not exactly the things we want to hear but certainly conditions that are true. If we embrace them as parts of the process the system may not take as long to deliver an answer as the wait seems or appears. I believe it is in the discovery that you and I learn to shine or we just continue to polish away. Wouldn’t it be easy if we could reach the perfection of life we desired and that became the facts that remained forever? It would be great to have one big battle knowing that at the end all things were final, but life and our character isn’t that easy. Yes, life is a battle, we have challenges that may cause you to shout Hallelujah or it’s possible that you might just feel like cussing up a storm! Again, I wish I could write a couple simple steps to many things in life with us building our personal foundations of character being easily solved by those steps, but that’s not that case.
Many will never travel a journey to see what can be discovered through a journey of faith because they think all the facts have already been gathered. Sometimes we are quick judges and have settled all things in our mind, thus another possibilities or opportunities are closed by the negative trait or condition of narrow minded behavior. Isn’t it amazing how we could claim to be so open yet so shut off to thoughts? We love flashing lights of color like a disco but we want to be in control of the switch that turns them on and off.
Life is never easy. Mistakes in the average life will be many and the one trait that will set the difference and the distance between all these written discussion will be our response to the final facts. Can we be startled and over react to things, yes, and it’s just as easy to ignore or act like you don’t really hear or see things too. The key to life is exposure and I would recommend a little bit of Jesus to get you started.
Until then

Hymn #150 please

Watching and scanning through my local cable providers available channels I am amazed by all the game shows that are currently running. “Back in the day”, game shows were always seen during the daytime, except of course for Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. I am amazed at all the different types of game shows and I confess the host of evening shows to watch is quite entertaining and I find myself upset when the Master of Ceremonies, or whatever title it is they hold to, announces we will see what happens “when we return”. Ok laughter is a good part of entertainment and suspense works too. Thinking about all these shows has my mind thinking about all the things I remember that have made a difference.
In 1981 I became a big fan of the television series Hill Street Blues. Thursday nights at 10:00pm you could set your clock on me being in front of the television watching the greatest police series ever produced. Just imagine watching a series today that doesn’t have a city you can identify? The greatness of Hill Street Blues was that watching the show you thought you knew the city and you were sure you understood the characters portrayed and that’s why folks loved the series including me. If someone wants to make my Christmas I would love the DVD series, lol!
The memories of shows and people are all the things that provide richness to our character. It takes time to officially grasp and understand the impact of television shows we watched as children and teens but given the opportunity of time all things will show themselves. Religious program was not always a part of weekly television and just as I can recall my Thursday evening show of preference, there is no doubt that Sunday mornings the Mull Singing Convention with Lady Mull and her man were a must for viewing and anyone witness them through black and white television, has equally a memory of their sponsor Cas Walker.
With the flashing of my memory bank regarding television shows, I had just such a moment in church that activated itself because of a positive and real impact upon my life while growing up. When I was a child attending my junior days at the First Baptist Church Pineville the location for Christian education occurred on the third floor of their educational building. The memory flash was the little blue Junior Hymnal that we used to sing hymns during our open assembly before dividing up into various age group classes. The hymn was # 150 and the song was My Jesus I Love Thee. When the Music Minister announced that he wanted us to sing a love song I wasn’t sure what song it would be, but as the words appeared on the projector screens in our sanctuary I thought immediately, this is a great love song and I know the page number even if we don’t use hymnals anymore.
There are many changes in life and there are many moments that create thoughts for each of to reflect upon. I will be praying that this week you will have a moment like I’ve experienced that will create a heart overflowing experience filled with love too.

Until then

History--ours to write today

In the mountains of Kentucky we love history. We love the heritage of the land in which we call home. The communities that were once filled with homes and families we respect as places were our forefathers lived, and raised their families. We look upon our community churches as strong holds of faith that represent the sincere efforts of our families search for inner meaning and even our personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Kentucky State history is about our independence as a Commonwealth and about our continued work to be neutral and get along in harmony. Let us not forget our State Motto, “United We Stand, Divided We Fall”. The work of our pioneer families, the vision of those early settlers who established mills for grain and stores for trading all serve as the foundation for out towns and even our way of life. The rich history of our families we share in the stories we tell as the pride factors of the distance we’ve traveled and the destination we seek in our future sight.
There are many elements and factors that are involved in our make character and development but three that must not be over looked. No matter the successes we have experienced or the achievements we post as evidence of our advancement we each remain created in the image of All-might God. With positive strokes in life’s steps it is easier to admit this Biblical statement as fact, but when the character witness by others is not so bright in light, nor positive with respect to influence and impact, it is then very easy to not recall the Creator in whose image we represent. No doubt finding the light in darkness can be a struggle and the journey of that search a stumbling experience over all kinds of things that in given light would be easy to walk around. Watching people who do good toward others and witness folks who serve and give it is easy to see the beauty of God, but watch those who take, use and never offer the slightest thanks or appreciation, we categorize those very quickly and have no problem distancing ourselves from their association or even acknowledgement of “once a friend”.
The rich history of who we are should be stamped throughout with the words and actions of faith. The history of who you are is now your responsibility as a family members walking where your family once stood and moved. Even if you moved into this area once as a stranger, welcome now as a new pioneer sharing your traditions that can enrich our own history with new values and appreciation because of where you’ve come from and the stories of your family and the road they have traveled.
Along this journey we have the opportunity to cling to outside sources of strength called faith and hope. These two traits will add much to the history of our traditions and the value of our lives to others we may never even meet. The one resource we have that provides us with a complete new chance for experiences, foundation reinforcement, and courage for new steps is a thing called love. Love can certainly be independence and branch out extending in all directions in addition to being neutral, listening, caring, and waiting for you to move first because it is the proper step.
A history has been written already by those before us, but a history remains to be written by those of us who remain.

Until then

A real Minister of Music. speaks honesty and truth

The challenges of church is truly an across the board experience for staff and members. Honesty in church is often seldom heard as most are afraid to make a truth statement because of the way it will be viewed by those observing. In church last week I heard a great statement of truth that touched my heart in a very refreshing way. The Minister of Music has been asking for, recruiting, and seeking out new members for the choir. This week he announced how happy he was for those who had recently joined the choir and he expressed his public thanks. Any one who has ever been a church choir member knows that it is special when others join that particular ministry. It’s encouraging for those who have been singing their hearts away from the choir’s position because you feel the value of your ministry and service is seen by others and the importance of your work is valued and others want to help. Not a bad feeling for any church member involved in any church ministry.
The statement made by our Minister of Music was that he was “so excited about the new members who had recently joined, and he decided to pull out some old music only to realize that the new members didn’t have clue and those plans would need to be scrapped for the moment”. Now, I’m smiling deep inside as I write because those types of comments are just not typically shared on a Sunday morning in worship. It was very refreshing however.
It’s refreshing because of the honesty involved that included the great news of exciting involving others who are stepping up and the honesty of the situation that with growth new challenges develop, even for staff members who lead. So often in church, when we talk about growth and change, we think about it from only a church members position and we hardly ever consider the changes involved for the staff that are leading the effort.
Have you ever consider the challenges facing a new staff member that has just joined your churches leadership team? The adjustments from moving ones family is more then enough challenge for the average family, add on to that, the new friends their children must begin to develop and having to establish who you are again, what you believe, and let’s just add on to the list of challenges saying goodbye to all your favorite things and attempting to build new traditions is no easy journey.
Sure we can be friendly, we can offer assistance and we can even provide answers, and take them to our favorite spots, but still the real test is one that only time can provide. Seldom do we consider the change that we as church members can levy against our current leadership when we offer our suggestions without anytime for consideration or input from their point of view. Even when our church leadership has been around for sometime it is easy to forget that they too may need time and planning.
The honesty and straightforwardness of the testimony of my churches Minister of Music has me in the biggest smile. In Southern Baptist life, most folks don’t really look at the Minister of Music as a real Minister. They will describe them as the “music leader” or even as the “song leader” but rarely as a Minister like the Pastor. Personally having filled both roles I know this from first hand experience, but I also know as a Pastor when the entire staff is seen as the Representatives of Jesus, His servant, and His leadership, a church can really rock. I’m glad I heard the encouragement of the day, from the spoken word of God’s Music Man!.

Until then

Growing Faith....with a horse

Struggling issues of religious faith can often be either a motivating factor in an individual’s life or that same issue could be the final step in a journey looking for answers. Faith, the Bible says is to believe without seeing. Faith in others is most often demonstrated after it is observed through patterns of actions and words matching up. It could be that you are reading this and in some fashion of honesty admit to yourself that you have not only held others to these two different positions of faith, but maybe you can even admit you have practiced both for all the world to see too. If the latter is you, then you have an inner struggle of faith that maybe we can work on that will not be an end to all, but rather a step in your continuing journey of faith.
Those who read this column regularly know I write and share from not just my heart but from my own experiences. It is never an easy thing to open up your personal life for review and critique by others but I have discovered that great Biblical truth that “truth will set you free”. For those that are at the current status of about to give up on religious faith, the easiest thing to write is “hold on” but maintaining a handle on things can be a stress upon our fingers, hands and wrist. I’ve never been much of one for arm wrestling. I’ve had folks tell me it’s all about leverage and position, in addition to the mindset not to allow your wrist to bend. Exerting muscle strength with focus and determination is no easy task. Risking the chance you may end up with a broken arm that will just snap under the pressure is not the way I want to spend the next 8 weeks either, so I’m tempted to never even enter the contest.
Experience can be a great tool for evaluating situations and conditions. My youngest niece, Morgan Alexandra Mills, wanted a horse to ride. The purchase was made and with a tender gentle horse what could go wrong, after all Lady had perfect traits rights? The evening was perfect for a horse ride and with my encouragement and assurance; my niece went for her first bareback ride. The only condition I had not prepared for was a barking down up from the creek that would spook Lady and with a jump not seen before, off my niece went, and old Uncle Tim could not keep her from falling which resulted in a broken arm right off the bat! Not the vision I had reviewed in my mind for the perfect memory that would last a life time. Rather I had to carry her with a visible broken arm that was first spotted by my father. Truth is, facing my brother and sister-in-law was much easier then my own dad. It was not the moment I had planned. A visit to the emergency room, a cast, not to mention the expense my “trust Uncle Tim” created.
This could have been the set back of all time for riding horses or loving animals on the part of my niece, but she didn’t let that happen. Now she’s never went riding with me again, but she did blame me either, which was nice. Rather she blamed it on a barking dog and she gave no negative credit to Lady either. For me, it was an experience I don’t want to repeat with those results. It is now a part of the journey we have shared together in life and we grew through. The best advice for religious faith is, “Don’t let one kick knock you out forever, and don’t let one victory set you up for the next fall”.

Until then

God Still Moves

In today’s high tech world, we’ve got gadgets for just about everything. If we don’t have a gadget then I’m sure we have an application that we can download onto our portable cellular devices that will allow us greater mobility and control of our lives right?
We’ve got widgets too….how could I almost forget about the resource that helps us put the other resources we like to use most at our finger tips for greater convenience. You can call yourself really high tech when you have yourself a special device or tool that enhances your already special stuff to the next level!
When email first was introduced, who would have imagined it could have been enhanced with so many special features that we just could not live without. Consider life without an “office assistant”, and all the special things we can do like planning ahead to provide you with an announcement we are unable to respond or I enjoy the ability to recall an email I’ve sent out. Sometimes I do that to my friends just so they will ask what I sent or what I needed. Life is so filled with things it’s hard to imagine the simply lives once lived just a few short years ago.
I was looking at the church hymn the other day, God Moves in Mysterious Ways. Reading the words reminded me of the beauty and power of God in a way that was refreshing in this modern time of sophistication and electronic equipment for staying in touch.

God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform
He plants His footsteps in the sea, and rides upon the storm
You fearful saints, fresh courage take; The clouds you so much dread;
Are big with mercy, and shall break in, blessings on your head.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, but trust Him for His grace,
Behind a frowning providence, He hides a smiling face.
Blind unbelief is sure to err, and scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter, and He will make it plain.

Words of comfort that provide a real inner peace are so often hard to find. If your cellular phone doesn’t work, you must call an 800 number where you will be pressing buttons for a while, and if you don’t have your serial, model and warranty number handy with fax capabilities, then you might not even get to speak to a live operator for assistance.
In our fast pace world today there is a sure fact that is good to have as an anchor for a weary spirit. God moves in mysterious ways and if you and I will be still long enough to know Him, I am confident we will see clearly in time.


Until then

Mae Bingham - remembered for her faith and love

I find myself as I grow older reflecting upon my own life through the eyes of impact of others who have influenced me. Writing about people and their lives because of faith has become a task I enjoy and the comments of readers are certainly encouragement for my efforts in the goal of making our world a better place because of our faith in Jesus Christ.
Writing the name William Boyd Bingham, Jr., and mentioning a church known as simply Binghamtown, creates immediate name recognition and identity with a mountain pastor who served for 54 years proclaiming the truth of God’s Word. His faithful companion of life was his wife Mae, who never left his side, drove him thousands of miles and supported her husband in his calling to serve people in the name of Jesus. Family has always been extremely important to me, and Uncle “W” and Aunt Mae made a difference as a team and individually. In honor and memory of her passing on Friday, June 25, 2010, I want to share in celebrating her life of impact through this column.
As a child I remember being at Uncle “W” and Aunt Mae’s home riding ponies. Not sure why they had a pony, but I remember loving the opportunity to ride it. Actually I have a picture of my sister Bridget, my brother Jim, Jr., and I all on that pony riding around the church parsonage in Middlesboro. The fun memories of a child are never lost with age, and the love expressed by adults to children are also never forgotten. Aunt Mae will be remembered by many as the devoted wife of Preacher Bingham, but she was much more behind the scenes to so many, sacrificing for others, and exercising her Christian faith too.
Aunt Mae filled the shoes for children who had no parents treating them just as her own children, if not even better. My Aunt, Imogene (Jean) Mills, stayed with Uncle “W” and Aunt Mae when they lived on Walnut Street in Pineville. Uncle “W” ran a grocery store where today stands the Bell Whitley Building before he became Pastor at Binghamtown. She lived with them in Middlesboro while attending Business School. Aunt Mae’s children at the time were Conley, Bonita, and Gary but one more was not a problem. Aunt Jean told me, “Timmy, Uncle “W” only made $225 a month and Aunt Mae would take me to school and pick me up everyday.” My mother’s memories include visiting the grocery store and presenting her glass of cracked walnuts and Uncle “W” always giving her a $1.00 upon every visit. “That was a lot of money back then”, my mother shared. During a revival at Young Grove on Road Fork in Stinking Creek, Uncle “W” was preaching and my mother started crying. Aunt Mae moved next to her and said, “Bernadine what’s wrong?” Mother said she realized she wasn’t a Christian and she would never see her mother and she wanted to become a Christian. It was Aunt Mae that went to the altar and prayed with my mother as she became a believer through faith at 15 years of age. My grandmother was only 19 years old when she died, my mother was just weeks old and Aunt Jean was 3 years of age. My heart is full of joy and thanks because my Aunt Mae lived a life of faith and she wasn’t afraid to be a supporter or to step out and lead.
Personally, Aunt Mae always encouraging me and her impact will never be forgotten. In eternity one day I will see her sweet smile and feel her soft touch again.

Until then

Imagination....from childhood to adulthood

Growing up as a child who reading this had any trouble imagining? Why any good 6 year old can imagine flying an airplane and most children at 8 years of age can prepare a meal and set the table using nothing but their imagination. It is easy to dream about driving a truck or even setting up an office where you are writing out business cards, or as my nieces often did, they would give you a meal check for the dinner you didn’t really eat. Using proper imagination you could make noises and pretend to eat with imagination. Makes you want to go back to that age again doesn’t it? Having fun, and nothing was real except spending time playing enjoying life in first class style as a child…using your imagination.
I was reflecting about church and worship. As a child we hear the story of Jesus and we latch on, believing His love and accepting His word as truth. As adults today it appears there is a real need to return to the use of imagination as we sing songs of His love and songs of our commitment to the cause. It appears our ability to visualize how our faith is to be put into practice has been lost with our advancement in age and years of faith. You would think just he opposite would be true. Because we believe and have experiences with Him as Savior and Lord, our faith is strong, our imagination of his purpose and plan for our lives grows and we move forward with action and words.
How about the song, “He Touched Me.” What is your imagination with this song? For me, first I recall the moments and situations in my life that he has actually touched me, and as I face all of the unfolding events and situations of life my imagination kicks in and I cannot imagine a single event He can’t help me with. Think about the song, “Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus.” When was the last time you used your imagination regarding this action? I confess it will be difficult as an adult to use your imagination of standing up against something if you’ve never had that experience. Children imagine fighting the world with stick they imagine as the most powerful weapon the world’s ever known. Children stand up fighting an enemy using their imagination because when knocked down they get back up and continue the fight even though it appeared they were just hit by the bullets of the enemy. WOW, don’t you want to be a child again? Sure we do, but it’s not necessary, we are adults and our imagination should be just fine with the successes we can experience because we walk in faith, talk in faith, and are willing to stand up for Him.
Not sure if there was ever any luster in serving Christ, but I can clearly remember some older folks of faith that didn’t seem to have any problem imagining that Jesus Christ really wants to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we could ever ask or even think. Why not use our imagination to believe that He does work all things out, if we would only love Him and serve Him in His purpose. Maybe it is not possible for you and I to see ourselves as salt and light to those around us even if we used our imagination. Why have we stopped believing and why have we stopped acting? I’m thinking we’ve not only lost our imagination but we’ve lost the faith we demonstrated as a child. It’s time to rediscover our inner faith as a child for these adult days.

Until then

What is your list of dreads?......

I know a lot of individuals who enjoy working cross word puzzles. Personally I have worked a few puzzles but cross word puzzles are not one of the types of puzzles I’ve enjoyed over the years. It could be that since spelling is not a strong suit of mine, I have a built in button that just rejects the idea? It’s always recommended when listing a negative share a positive too, so I will say a strong suit I have is the usage of words. Expressing myself through adjectives and adverbs and relating the meaning of words to others and using words to motivate and challenge is rewarding.
Over the years I have written this column I have shared several list on many topics and themes, but one list I have never created is a list of things we dread. For those of you that love cross word puzzles maybe this list will help you one day when you are stuck on a word. My list includes both personal dreads and those that I’ve heard from others from conversations and through experiences. Here’s a short list of five for discussion: #1-Receiving a traffic citation; Now I can name a 1,000 people that enjoyed not receiving a citation, but it is unusual for someone to be genuinely thankful for a citation; I know of individuals cited for driving under the influence or cited for drugs and even a few written for speeding that credit that moment for helping them to change their behavior but normally folks are not thankful for such experiences. #2-Death of a loved one; I wish I could write that with preparation this type of occurrence has it stinger removed but physically the hurt is real and over coming this loss takes time. The stinger can be spiritually removed because of the practice of Christian faith but even when our loved ones have suffered and we desire them to no longer be in pain, even then it is still difficult; #3-Failure at a task or goal; Most of us dread that idea, especially if you are goal driven and you enjoy succeeding. This dread requires us to rethink and regroup over coming the obstacle through persistence and commitment; #4-Rejection; This dread doesn’t have to be about personal relationships, but often we think of rejection in that form more then others. Rejection could be notification that you have not been selected for admission as a student in higher education, or a denial letter of a grant or idea can also be a set back. #5 Performance of the responsibilities that are not pleasant or enjoyable. I have a friend that is a pitching coach in professional baseball who loves his job. The one aspect he doesn’t enjoy is that dreaded conversation of having to release a player from the organization. Sometimes the things we dread have been in the works for weeks and a specific time frame must pass before the announcement is released and that’s not enjoyed no matter the explanation even when correct.
There are other dreads that can be listed and each of us have personal specific dreads that others may not relate to, but nevertheless, they are real, they exist and we can identify them. One of the keys to success involves creating list. List of issues we have struggles with. List of situations we want to seek to avoid. And list of characteristics we find complimentary and encouraging that we are drawn toward.
The biggest dread I did have in my life was answering for me and my actions to Jesus Christ as the creator. When someone loves what they do, they put their all into it. Certainly Jesus Christ loves us and He put His all into even His death, for me and you. I may have some dreads here on earth, but on the spiritual side of life, I’ve eliminated the biggest dread and you can too!

Until then

The Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival

It has been said that when things “go off without a bang”, that’s a good thing. Well I must say that’s not true especially when it comes to the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival. The bang was exactly what was missing! It has also been said that you never know what you had until it’s gone and that statement can be true too. I am someone who has written a lot about people that I am thankful for and I’ve written a lot about individuals and organizations that have made a real difference in my life and others.
On Saturday morning of the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival I was listening for one particular sound at 10:00 am. It was the sound of the firing of the cannon to proclaim the historic start of the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival. Certainly the parade got “off without a bang”, but it was missed. I have thanked the members of the Pineville Lions Club for their efforts in years past but now I must make my personal appreciation public and in prayer that next year that tradition will return. With Brother Earl Hurst and Richard Peace having been the main leaders of this experience for all those attending the parade for more years then I can recall their absence was felt. Appreciation for volunteers more often then not goes without public recognition but that shouldn’t be the average course of response. Acknowledging the work of the Pineville Lions Club and their efforts in cooperation with the Lions Club International should cause all of us to see them at work and to hear their work too. One aspect of the work of the Lions Club through their members is their efforts in making a difference in the local community. Small clubs can have big impacts and their consistent work throughout the years has accomplished that here in Bell County and Pineville.
The Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival as an organization has many volunteers too. Volunteers who served in organizing and directing the parade, volunteers who handed out programs, greeted guest, or worked in an office putting together packets or making sure chairs were out for concerts and events. Volunteers who put up banners, made phone calls, or worked to secure housing for the escorts and queen participants. All these plus hundreds more that we may never see their name in print yet, volunteer to do a task or complete an assignment for the enjoyment of others. To all of you who volunteer let me be one that says thanks and allow this thanks and that of others to be an echoing applause you remember.
The firing of one single cannon may seem like a minor event, but that one element added with other single events make for a great program we love called the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival.
In review of history it is easy to see the success of Biblical wisdom. One lays a foundation so another person can build upon that foundation. Understanding the missing bang of the Pineville Lions Club cannon also provides for a good understanding of a Biblical view of His return as Savior and Lord. The scripture says in the twinkling of an eye—change. In a single moment He will return to claim His bride. The best position to be in would be one that sees the change before it’s called to our attention after the fact.

Until then

Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival - Knox County

The representation of Knox County in the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival served as shining stars of beauty and grace in the Princess Coronation held on Friday night of the festival each year. Bethany Bargo represented Knox Central High School and Danielle Brooke Green represented Lynn Camp High School.
Participation in the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival Princess Event is about beauty, style and personality, but for us a community it is really about corporation with our neighbors and celebrating who we are as a people and individual communities. Our neighbors in every direction from Barbourville are important to us as a city and county. Our relationship and inner action together as a whole speaks volumes about our willingness to see others be successful in their individual efforts.
The Daniel Boone Festival is a highlight of Knox County, as the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival shines a spot light on the City of Pineville. These two festivals are different in nature but similar in effort and design. The Daniel Boone Festival shows our history and expresses the heritage we as a people hold. The Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival has history as the oldest festival in Kentucky only second to the Kentucky Derby. People come and participate from all over the counties showing off their goods through tents and venues and of course what would any festival be without food and lots of it.
Being a representative of their individual schools, as Bethany and Danielle both did was just one of their duties. Their biggest task at hand was representing Knox County , each community and all of us as a people. It almost sounds like the job of an elected official, but the real work of any county is always accomplished by those who live, work, go to school and serve the interest of other before their self. One interesting fact I would love to learn from all those that participate each year in our festivals is the number of community hours they have volunteered or given to the benefit of others. I would suspect we would be surprised by the number of hours our young people are giving to others. Some of their efforts through church, others through high school clubs and yet others through their involvement with athletics or other extra hour activities like 4-H or First Priority.
Giving to the benefit of others is not always the first trait one sees in someone else. Certainly it is not a characteristic that jumps out of you as a child, but there are signs that if noticed early on and encouraged, will make a lasting impression as they develop in their teen and early adult years.
Our representatives to the K.M.L.F. are good examples of those types of characteristics and traits. You and I as adults are well suited to attempt to catch up in our efforts if we are behind in making a difference by giving our effort and energies. The best example I know of such service would be that see in the action and words of Jesus Christ. He wasn’t noticed in those developing years but given the right time, after solid training when His moment arrived He was able to step up to the plate, or cross, and follow through.
My encouragement having watched these ladies step out of their shells during the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival is for me to continue my journey of being a light that others will see shining for His glory. After all the scripture says for us to let our light shine so others will see your good works and glorify the Father.

Until then

The search for Peace

With all the different events taking place in our world currently there is a search for inner peace in all of our lives. Not sure what brings you to the spot where you are able to relax instead of “running around like a chicken with you head cut off”. For those who are wondering, yes, chickens can and do run when their heads have been cut off. The expression comes from mountain life when someone has just “rung” a chicken’s neck or cut it off in preparation for stewing or frying up the hen. Having witnessed this activity there is no sense in a chickens running or flopping around, it just goes until is yields itself over to the greater cause of being eaten.
Life can put us as human in that type of crazy spin too. Pressure from our jobs at work, or a stressed personal relationship can bring on lots of stuff that can easily get out of control in our lives. Searching for peace when those moments seem to have control is not easy. We never want to surrender our commitment to press through such moments but the weight of the issues sometimes can sure bend us into shapes we thought our emotions and bodies could not bend to or experience.
The Bible talks about peace and while for some it is hard to place your finger on peace when you are just learning the ropes of your new personal relationship with Jesus Christ but for those of us who have years of walking and talking with Jesus we should be a more stable pillar during the storms of life. One of the great moments of personal growth for me is recognizing in the midst of my storm that He is there. It is difficult to explain the feeling when things are going wild yet you are calm and are able to see beyond the present moment to the future in trust through faith. I know a pastor today who was forced out of his place of service and after a year and a half of waiting he found the next door of opportunity. He said, “it was so peaceful talking with the leadership of the church, I knew this was the right place for us to move to”. Who likes being fired, no one I know, but peace can still be found. The loss of a loved one unexpectedly can shake us to the core. I recent discussion with a friend whose husband had just died, leaving her to raise 4 daughters is a daunting task, but yet, she is finding peace even in the challenges she is facing. Not the types of issues we want to talk about, but perfect issues for us to individually find peace through if we walk with Him in faith.
I seldom give direct personal advice in this column, rather I write most often about options and positions of faith but in this column I want to share some specific locations for peace you too can find. Music has always been a source, from the harps of the Bible to the piano and guitar of our day, there can be a refuge and strength if we will let the melodies fill our heart. Poetry is always encouraging even when we probe for an answer that causes us to read it over and over again. The memorization of scripture, a verse that was shared by a friend with their explanation of peace in its meaning can be a ray of sunshine in a dark day.
The option for peace is available but the discovery is not at the lucky find at the end of a rainbow. Peace comes because of a commitment to a relationship built on trust and respect. Peace comes because of our exercise of discipline and action to help others before ourselves. Peace comes through listening and waiting, not rushing and knocking things down or over to find your answer. Often times we don’t have peace because we demand to remain in charge.

Until then

The real election...time to vote

The primary election has concluded, and the votes have all been counted. For the news outlets and for the reporters who cover political events it appears to be easy to say who has won and who has lost. For the determining factor of such news reporting the individual with the largest number of votes is declared the winner, and with assumption, it will be professed as good news.
Even after the general election votes have been counted in November I believe announcing the winners by total number of votes cast may not provide us with the real answer. Could be we constituents are the loser either way if those elected do not serve the people. In the Bible there was a desire for a great election with the answer coming down to one vote. The mother of James and John ask of Jesus is her sons could sit on His right and left. Now that’s an election of popularity and convenience. Self serving to the highest levels, but rejected and refused by Jesus. His answer was so not politically correct. Today’s politicians would have explained the need for a committee to be appointed and for a vote of approval by the board before confirmation, but that wasn’t the answer Jesus gave. His answer was simple, this is not a decision that is mine to make, but one reserved for the Father in Heaven. No, Jesus didn’t put the blame on someone else, Jesus did not refuse to be involved and Jesus did not act like he did not understand the question with a later rebuttal and press conference to explain what He really intended to say. Rather, He placed the decision where it rested, with the Father. He did give a suggestion later to provide an answer for the Father. He suggested that if you wanted to be first, become the greatest servant of all. Wow, talk about not be politically correct again, that was not the answer folks were expecting to hear.
The Bible speaks plenty about leadership, elected officials and those who hold appointed and elected offices. The key to success is service and the key to making proper decisions is about following Biblical wisdom and Holy Spirit discernment. Helping others is a Biblical principal, just as Jesus came from His Father’s throne to help us. We found ourselves in a mess of sin without direction and hope and He stepped into His to provide the way, truth and life. Today we are in need of leadership that is connected with a resource that provides hope, answers and direction. Our County, State and Nation deserve leadership that is servant orientated. Will you be hurt serving others, yes. Will you experience frustration and disappointment in attempting to give your very best for the benefit of others before yourself, yes, but that does not provide excuses or reasoning that allows us to assume another course of action.
We all become winners when those elected to serve and those being served are appreciative and respectful for the dedication given and the practice demonstrated to the betterment of all. Someone must speak for those who cannot, and someone must help those without sight cross the intersections of life. The best election to participate in is the election of the body of Christ. I choose to follow Him.


Until then

So what's your thoughts....about God?

There are many things to wonder about from life and with good assumption I am guessing the thought of if there is a God is as good a question as should be pondered.
When you consider all the things people wonder about why not explore the idea of God and just who He is, if He’s real. The realization of Jesus Christ as God is a discovery that has been on going in my life since I ask Him into my heart. I have heard some say what is the gain or loss without a relationship with Jesus. For those who believe in faith that is a simple answer. You have everything to gain and everything will be loss without Him. I’ve also heard some say what if in the end of our existence we discover that Jesus wasn’t real, and that faith was nothing, what then?
For me, at the end of life is Jesus isn’t real, I will be surprised, and if possible I will write a column from that point in life sharing what I have discovered. I doubt realistically if that will happen, but as a good friend to many I would want to give a “heads up” if such were true. On the discovery and wonder of God I have had several pivotal moments in my life that confirm my thoughts and have given my faith additional legs to run on.
When I asked Jesus into my heart I did experience a change. I felt something inside of my being that had not been there before and it was a completing me feeling too. As Jesus and I have become friends I have learned more about Him that supports my belief and cleared up any doubt about if there is a God. Witnessing life and death has opened my mind in understanding the delicate creation we are as humans. We are different because of our soul. That being inside of us that challenges and instructs removes my doubt about His existence. Another turning point for me personally is the answers I have received regarding questions that I have raised. If I could have figured it out myself I would have no doubt, but there are some situations that you must go to the source for help with. An owner manual we all receive with small appliance’s we purchase and with every cellular phone today you must give the owners cd a look to explain all the options, benefits and features. Turning to Jesus has proven to be the owners manual in my life and time over and over again He has directed me to the proper steps that fixed my issue and explain the application.
Some folks don’t like to give God a name. They prefer to speak in general terms, so as not to offend anyone with a different point of view. Personally, I respect different points of view and I know many that do not believe that Jesus Christ is the Lord of lords or if it helps, the God of gods. I have friends of other faiths, and I’m not talking about different styles of Christianity, but rather different gods they worship and believe. In a small world view protestant believer like to debate their particulars about styles of worship, clothing, words and actions. In a big world view I think things are very clear and I for one am grateful. The Bible says, “for God so loved the WORLD that He gave His only begotten son”….and according to world records that demonstration of love for each of us can only be found in one man…his name was Jesus.

Until then

The Word and thought of Mother for discussion

The focus and attention to words creates great conversations. With the celebration of Mother’s Day this past weekend Mother is a great word for discussion. For most of us honoring our Mother’s takes very little thought. Our actions are moved by the care we received and the nurturing we experienced. Loving Mother, especially on her national day of recognition is something we wouldn’t dare miss. I am mindful of the fact that not everyone has enjoyed the relationship of a mother that cares, is sincere and takes her responsibility seriously.
I believe it is very important to acknowledge the loss some reading my column experienced as a child growing up. It is unfortunate for those whose Mother passed prior to their ability to really remember them and it is equally unfortunate for those children whose Mother was absent by choice and who left Motherhood to another for their child. One of the great aspects of focus and attention is that we can learn that while some facts are sad and true, these matters alone are not the ultimate determining factor for happiness and appreciation. The word Mother can be used as a noun, verb or adjective. As an adjective I could say, I love Detroit as my Mother homeland, or I could say my good friend Sarah dreams of being a Mother, using it as a verb. One fact for certain, the verb usages of the word create a special warm feeling in ones heart when we experience the best of Mother. Even with limited experience the opportunity to be cherished, tended to, spoiled, and fussed over is a good feeling that leaves lasting impressions always loved.
April 4, 1977 Southeastern Kentucky experienced a raging flood from Mother Earth and 33 years later, on May 4, 2010, Nashville, Tennessee awakens to flood waters she never dreamed possible either. Imagine the same Cumberland River flowing from Pineville to Nashville jumpers her banks to announce there is no control when Mother Earth decides to unleash her force.
A single event of life or the combination of events often hand to each of us both challenges to accept and obstacles to over come. There are many steps in overcoming these new moments in all our lives. It could be a simple reflection of great memories or moments in which multiple situations require the assistance of others who must step up to answer the call and provide assistance as a good Mother.
The great answer for every conversation that deserves our focus and attention would be the inclusion of Jesus Christ. He was a ever present force in 1977 and He remains the same in 2010. There are many things in life that require adjustments. Changes in jobs, relationships with friends, varying responsibilities or duties with family are just a few that require change. Yet, the every present constant force of peace that fills an inner spirit only comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. When the waters of life roll out of her streams and the mud of the creek seems to remain we need to be reminded that the forgiveness found in Jesus Christ creates in us a new birth that establishes us as children of God—joint heirs through His love.


Until then

Legal..what a word for discussion

The great debate is on….”who is legal?” Of all the words we can use there are a handful of words that can create great debates and legal is one of those. Given the current political climate usage of the word today yields to one conversation. It describes those that have entered our country illegally. Not sure what your held political position is regarding this subject matter, but I believe there are very clear Christian positions.
I strongly believe in the melting pot image I was taught regarding America. We are a Country that should have welcoming boarders and under our law we do permit certain percentages and numbers from all across the world to the America through legal request, work permits, visa’s, and yes, even the opportunity to Pledge Allegiance to The United States of America.
Three years ago I met a family that had sought legal entry into America and this past fall became legal citizens of the United States. Their pride in taking the pledge is a badge of honor for them and for their families. El Salvador is a place on the globe ridden with war, strife and civil unrest. To sit and listen to their stories of watching family members being killed through illegal coups and of their dream and journey to America will create a grateful heart for the unique privilege I was born into as a Citizen of the U.S.
In grade school and high school I was taught rules and regulations. I was taught to believe that these were guidelines that kept things on a even opportunity field, yet hard work and commitment would always outshine those that just stood and waited for the “lucky spot” of life. As a Christian I cannot find any where the Bible supports luck, or that attitude that so many seem to believe and hope in today. In life, I have met many people in many different living styles and conditions. Only in America have I really discovered that to have more means you are a better person in comparison to many. Go to Brazil and you will not discover race an issue in that country. Go to Haiti and you will discover happy people even in the midst of their disaster. Visit our own country, go to Louisiana and you will find folks still without a house, yet something keeps them going and smiling through it all.
As a Citizen of the United States I believe in working for a living and I also believe in providing for those that are unable to help themselves. As a Christian I believe the principal of the Bible, no work, no food too. We all know individuals who are milking the welfare system and I have built into my life a certain percentage for that, knowing that sometimes you must give to those that don’t need in order to reach those that do. Does this mean I support wasteful abuse, obviously not, but life is about the gray. From the earliest memories of my life I had chores. Things to do that supported my family. I grow up doing things like going to grocery store for my family, or picking up an item that was needed. It is very common today to hear child who do nothing for their parents when they provide answers like, “I don’t want to, you do it”. As a Christian I was taught to honor my parents and to respect others around me, which included doing what I may not want to do simply because I was asked, or it was the proper thing to do.
My love for America is unwavering. My love for my Savior is stronger then unwavering. It is battle proven and has survived the storms of life.

Until then

LIke Him or who?

Considering what to write about in preparation for this column is often times challenging. Writing this column is a personal opinion piece. It doesn’t represent the newspaper or the editor, yet I strive to always write something that the editor will find appropriate, timely, and of interest to the subscribers. I have addressed local topics that are a “hot button” for some and I’ve had readers who disagreed and took issue with a position I shared. There are so many things to write about that need a voice or a shout from the back of the room. Sometimes in life we simply want to get along, make no waves, and just mind our own business. Yet if you live long enough you realize that to remain quite all the time is a path of least resistance that may make those around you happy, but it will not create change that is so necessary for advancement.
Had Jesus never turned the tables over in that great Bible event, I wonder what our opinion would be about those money changers that cheat others through deception? Had Jesus not written in the sand would we think that our demand for justice is always right? Had Jesus not taken time to stop the pushing crowd to ask who is was that had touched Him, would we believe a simple touch has no importance? Or finally what would we think today had Jesus taken no time on the cross to tell his co-convicted that he would be in paradise today?
I am of the opinion that these single moments make a difference today. It could be that some reading will not know any of these situations I’ve recalled while others will know exactly the characters involved in each story. In either case it doesn’t make you a good or bad person, and your knowledge and ability to remember doesn’t elevate you to a higher position of respect from the community. I have been asked questions before by others who like to show off their knowledge by saying things like, “that’s what the Bible says doesn’t it preacher”. Personally I am always slow to answer such statements because most folks don’t quote scripture very well at all. We are good however at twisting words to satisfy our conscience and position.
Cheater is fighting words. If you don’t believe me, just tell someone you are dealing with next time you believe they cheated you and see how mad, angry and fight ready folks get. Doing wrong to others isn’t acceptable in my world, but then again not everyone plays by the same rules. Selfishness is always easily seen in others yet for us to just remain silent and allow time to prove integrity isn’t in our standard way of thinking.
The power of believing is vital to the pursuit of hope, but to finding individuals who encourage others to reach out for that which they believe is hard to find in the open.
There are many things that should not be ignored by those of us that identify ourselves as Christians. Simply being a friend to others doesn’t cost a lot, but if you believe what others say behind your back is valuable then I doubt you will ever been seen where you need to be when friends are in need.
When I think about Jesus talking to those that hung on their cross with Him at His crucifixion I am reminded that I have a long way to go to be like Him.

Until then

Barnyard Learning

What do you call someone who attends events but seldom is observed taking a role that others clearly see? How would you describe someone who is fluent in the language of the culture and through words, phrases, and actions appear to be engaged and knowledgeable? Thinking about clothing and accessories do you think it is safe to say you would have a good idea of where someone has been or what they are involved in based upon how they look? Honesty is one of those self evaluating traits others will see in us especially when we exhibit good judgment and understanding about others and the position and condition they might be experiencing. Caution, just because the truth maybe known doesn’t always mean we should express it publically. Yet, working through the areas of black, white and gray will demonstrate respect we have for others and confidence they will build in us.
I know individuals who sit on porches to observe to see who is driving up or down the road on Sunday and based upon the clothing folks are wearing we attempt to confirm our suspicions as to whether or not someone is headed to church. If you see someone with a Bible in their hands we think they must have been to church, or they must be a preacher. After all, we know only preachers and evangelist carry Bibles, right?
Listening to someone that quotes a Bible verse or tells a Bible story is all the evidence necessary to confirm if someone is a Christian, right? Honesty is always tough, but I’m confident most of us would agree that we can spot a Christian by the clothes they wear and their actions and mannerism right?
Many individuals would say I don’t judge people that way, but if we were to be honest with ourselves, we must say yes, we know folks that do. The expressions “going to the chicken house doesn’t make you a chicken and going to church doesn’t make you a Christian”. A true expression, so a good question to ask is what does make you a Christian. Certainly if you look like a chicken, lay on your eggs and eat scratch feed, you are no doubt a chicken. I guess we could say the real test is to “ring your neck” remove the feathers, clean you up and after cutting you into pieces and frying you that would prove if you were a chicken or not for sure.
When it comes to Christianity there are many different signs one should look for, but the real evidence of your heritage is when your actions and words match up. I remember as a child running around after the chickens in my grandfather Hobert’s barnyard. I would chase after the chickens up to the hog pin, into the barn where the cattle were, and even on the front porch where my grandmother Stella and I would sit in her green chairs. One fact for certain, even though the chickens had been chased into a lot of different places there remained chickens.
As a Christian we should be reminded in watching others that the place folks become a Christian is in the heart. It would be nice if everyone that confessed the name of Jesus allowed their heart to speak in actions and words, but it’s not always the case. I remember watching my grandparents chickens walk among the cows and even the bulls in the field and stalls, seemly unafraid of a kick or being stepped upon.
Today, the world could use some folks who can be distinguished for who and what they are, no matter where they are. Life is a big farm with lots of different characters doing their thing, as they should but with a clear self awareness of who they are in the picture of things. A cow is a cow, a chicken is a chicken and a Christians should be a Christian.

Until then