My First Christmas in Heaven 2016

In 1998 at the passing of my Grandfather Clarence Hobert Mills, a friend seeking to minister to me during his passing sent me the poem, "My First Christmas in Heaven". I had never read the poem before that day but it has become a part of my life every year since that day. This is my 18th year to share and I too join with you in the heart experience as my father James Ernest Mills, Sr., is spending his first Christmas in Heaven this year.. It is my prayer for each person that has lost a loved one or a friend in 2016 that this poem will bring the comfort I received when I read it for the very first time. I also pray that "My First Christmas in Heaven" will be an encouragement to your spirituality. I pray that by sharing my Christian Faith you will seek Him too and discover the gift of Jesus as the baby born in Bethlehem as God's personal gift to you. Because of my faith the burden of loss is eased through the discovery and experience of His love, mercy and grace. Heaven is a place of many unique characteristics. Streets of Gold, walls of Jasper and gates of Pearl. In Heaven there is no pain or suffering. Here on earth there are many unanswered questions but in Heaven our Christian Faith becomes sight in meeting the creator face to face. The Bible says that in Heaven we will be known as we are known. I can only imagine the reunions that occur when loved ones are reunited because of their faith and the belief of Heaven becomes a reality. Accept this poem this year, as a gift with a Heavenly view. A gift of encouragement for those whose loved ones passed years ago and a gift of encouragement for those who have experienced loss this year. I pray that God's love for you becomes real this Christmas and the gift of His son Jesus who died in our place becomes your hope and that the peace that passes all understanding will rein in your life. Until then 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.

My personal health update November 2016

For the past several years I have exercised the practice of writing "Thanks-Givings" in this column through the fall season. It has been a unique moment for me personally as I share the stories and impact of others into my life. Sometimes the "Thanks-Giving" comes as a total surprise to some individuals and organizations and for others the public expression of thanks further bonds a mutual friendship. Over the past couple of months I have received several emails, text and calls regarding this column with folks asking if everything was ok. If you have been one who wondered if I had stop writing my column please allow this column to help serve as a part of the explanation as to where I have been and allow my "Thanks-Giving" to begin. No the editor didn't get mad at me and eliminate the column nor did I get upset over something and decided to protest over a column title or headline. I believe many of you are somewhat aware and others learning for the first time with the publishing of this column, I have been battling some challenging health conditions. My medical issues began in October 2014 and have continued over the past two years. I thought once out of the hospital and nursing home in May of 2015 I would quickly push aside all bad health issues and would be up and going full steam ahead. This wishful thinking however has not been a part of the journey I've been traveling. September, October and November of 2015 were good months with recovery as the total focus. My arthritic condition, Crohn's Disease, the challenges of diabetic ulcers and even cardiovascular issues seemed to have all taken a vacation from my body during those three months. I even had visions that these medical issues were behind me and in time I might even hit the road for a vacation get-away. With visions of good health in my plans for 2016 January arrived with surprises resulting in what has been a long year, medically speaking. The toll of over a 100 hospitalizations, 10 surgeries (including additional amputations), 40 hyperbaric treatments, 9 skin transplant, 1 stem cell transplant/injection and too many e-rays, blood work and test to recall, I find myself in "Thanks-Giving" mode for just remaining alive and not having yet expired. To finish out 2016 I have remaining 20 hyperbaric treatments and one additional amputation set for the week of Thanksgiving. My prayer is that by the week of Christmas I will have completed all treatments and I can begin looking at 2017 with rest, relaxation, and recovery as my focus. Writing this column each week is a real blessing and I have missed being away due to health issues. I am grateful for each contact of concern and I appreciate your encouragement. With God's help and the blessing of health I looking forward to sharing next week and next week, and next week until then. Until then

Taking a break...getting away

Mark 6:31 reads, "And He (Jesus) said unto them. Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while; for three were many coming and going and they (the disciples) had no leisure so much as to eat". The context of this scripture is that Jesus has just instructed the disciples that they should go out two by two as they witness and he instructed them to take no thought for themselves because the Father would provide. To compound the setting for this scripture Herod had ordered John the Baptist to be beheaded and the apostles had gathered around Jesus and told him all they had done and heard, including the beheading of John. It was then that Jesus invited them to come and follow Him as it was now appropriate to rest and begin some quiet time as many issues were pressing from every side. In 33 years of ministry I am struggling to recall how many messages I've heard from the pulpit about taking a break, getting away and resting. It just isn't the sort of topic that we ministers preach about but there is no doubt scripture demonstrates the importance. Personally I guess we are afraid to talk about taking a time-out because we have a fear we will quit, give-up or never return to pick up the cause again. We don't give out or encourage the invitation that Jesus issued out of our own fears and misapplication. This invitation from Jesus to come and get away to a desert place to rest a while was to allow for their spirits to be recharged for the cause. The invitation was not to contemplate quitting, or to begin a pattern of depression, to allow for fear to overtake your spirit, or to give reason for total surrender of your gifts and talents. The direct opposite was the intent. Taking a vacation, going off to a place of rest for a weekend, taking a break from activities is perfectly within the Will of God. The design of such breaks and get-a-ways in scripture are to allow us to reinvigorate our confidence in God, His plan for our lives and our commitment to follow His Will. Jesus knew the importance of such moments in our lives. If only we here are earth would learn to follow His demonstration. Until then

9-11 facts from September 11, 2001

FACTS about 9-11. 15 years later in 2016. 19 militants associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda hijacked four airliners and carried out suicide attacks against targets in the United States. Two of the planes were flown into the towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third plane hit the Pentagon just outside Washington, D.C., and the fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania. Often referred to as 9/11, the attacks resulted in extensive death and destruction, triggering major U.S. initiatives to combat terrorism and defining the presidency of George W. Bush. Over 3,000 people were killed during the attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C., including more than 400 police officers and firefighters. On September 11, 2001, at 8:45 a.m. on a clear Tuesday morning, an American Airlines Boeing 767 loaded with 20,000 gallons of jet fuel crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The impact left a gaping, burning hole near the 80th floor of the 110-story skyscraper, instantly killing hundreds of people and trapping hundreds more in higher floors. As the evacuation of the tower and its twin got underway, television cameras broadcasted live images of what initially appeared to be a freak accident. Then, 18 minutes after the first plane hit, a second Boeing 767–United Airlines Flight 175–appeared out of the sky, turned sharply toward the World Trade Center and sliced into the south tower near the 60th floor. The collision caused a massive explosion that showered burning debris over surrounding buildings and the streets below. America was under attack. As millions watched the events unfolding in New York, American Airlines Flight 77 circled over downtown Washington, D.C., and slammed into the west side of the Pentagon military headquarters at 9:45 a.m. Jet fuel from the Boeing 757 caused a devastating inferno that led to the structural collapse of a portion of the giant concrete building. All told, 125 military personnel and civilians were killed in the Pentagon, along with all 64 people aboard the airliner. Less than 15 minutes after the terrorists struck the nerve center of the U.S. military, the horror in New York took a catastrophic turn for the worse when the south tower of the World Trade Center collapsed in a massive cloud of dust and smoke. The structural steel of the skyscraper, built to withstand winds in excess of 200 miles per hour and a large conventional fire, could not withstand the tremendous heat generated by the burning jet fuel. At 10:30 a.m., the other Trade Center tower collapsed. Close to 3,000 people died in the World Trade Center and its vicinity, including: a staggering 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 New York City police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers who were struggling to complete an evacuation of the buildings and save the office workers trapped on higher floors. Only six people in the World Trade Center towers at the time of their collapse survived. Almost 10,000 others were treated for injuries, many severe. Meanwhile, a fourth California-bound plane–United Flight 93–was hijacked about 40 minutes after leaving Newark International Airport in New Jersey. Because the plane had been delayed in taking off, passengers on board learned of events in New York and Washington via cell phone and Airfone calls to the ground. Knowing that the aircraft was not returning to an airport as the hijackers claimed, a group of passengers and flight attendants planned an insurrection. One of the passengers, Thomas Burnett Jr., told his wife over the phone that “I know we’re all going to die. There’s three of us who are going to do something about it. I love you, honey.” Another passenger–Todd Beamer–was heard saying “Are you guys ready? Let’s roll” over an open line. Sandy Bradshaw, a flight attendant, called her husband and explained that she had slipped into a galley and was filling pitchers with boiling water. Her last words to him were “Everyone’s running to first class. I’ve got to go. Bye.” The passengers fought the four hijackers and are suspected to have attacked the cockpit with a fire extinguisher. The plane then flipped over and sped toward the ground at upwards of 500 miles per hour, crashing in a rural field in western Pennsylvania at 10:10 a.m. All 45 people aboard were killed. Its intended target is not known, but theories include the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland or one of several nuclear power plants along the eastern seaboard. September 11, 2001, 2,996 people were killed in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in NYC, the Pentagon building in Virginia, and in a plane crash in Pennsylvania. The attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11 resulted in the largest loss of life by a foreign attack on American soil. On any given workday, up to 50,000 employees worked in the WTC twin towers 18 people were rescued alive from the rubble of the WTC after 9/11. Along with 1.4 million tons of debris removed, 19,435 body parts were recovered from the WTC after 9/11. The New York Times wrote an article about every single 9/11 victim. After 9/11, the Maasai tribe of Kenya gave 14 of their most important cattle to America as aid. Two F16 pilots went on a suicide mission to stop Flight 93 on 9/11. In the end, the flight's passengers took the plane down The man who ordered the grounding of all aircraft in the U.S. on 9/11 was on his first day on the job These facts were shared during the Sunday morning message on September 11, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church of Harlan by Rev. Tim H. Mills preached from Luke 15:1-10. The sermon was entitled "Fully Committed".

Time...what are you doing with yours?

Often the expression is shared "life is a gift". Life is truly a gift but all the elements that make up life can be difficult to describe, or at least I am finding difficulty in selecting the proper words. Life and her expression bring to my mind thoughts of birth first because who doesn't like a Happy Birthday moment? Even if we say it is just another day, actually we find our individual day unique with all the connections of parents, cakes, presents and candles. Life brings to mind the thoughts of growing up, learning, falling down and scraping a knee, loosing a tooth and riding a bike. The mile markers of life's journey in our lives is unique to each of us. The impact of events and people are what make a difference and become what is cherished and remembered. Of all the connecting dots of life the most precious aspect I believe must be time. Time is a valued commodity. How we spend its seconds, minutes and hours are important even if we find ourselves from time to time lost in her vast expanse and wondering as we wander. Even these times are important too. All moments that make us helping to define our character, attitude, belief system and values. Because time is broken down into time segments we can often get much accomplished in one of those spans but no matter how long or short our existence the most precious gift we can dispose of is our time and energy. The manner in which we live our lives, using our individual time is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. I don't believe for a single second that life is a burden to be lived in fear with an encumbered amount of weights that have us broken, weak and weary. Rather I believe life is a gift with time being our most valuable possession and the manner in which we dispense our seconds, minutes and hours does matter. It is my prayer that if you have not given thought to your time and its uniqueness that your journey of making a difference begins today. If you already have a plan with goals, dreams and a foundation from which to live life then in my prayer for you. I pray each of our journeys will continue until our time ends recording our individual history of time so others can easily see our values. Until then

Obituary - James Ernest Mills, Sr.

ARJAY — James Ernest Mills Sr., 78, a resident of Arjay, Kentucky, peacefully entered into eternal life on August 18, 2016 after a long battle with cancer. James was a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. James was born on November 20, 1937 on Stinking Creek at Mills, KY (Knox Co.) to Clarence Hobart and Stella Mills, who preceded him in death. James married his high school sweetheart, Bernadine Carnes at the First Baptist Church in Tazewell, Tennessee in 1956. This August 31st, James and Bernadine would have celebrated 60 years of marriage. They moved to Michigan, had three children and James worked 17 ½ years for General Motors in Warren before moving his family back to Kentucky in 1971 to become an owner in Mills Furniture and Appliance Store, Inc. He became sole owner of the business in 1981. Throughout his life, James worked as a member and officer in various organizations that strive to assist others in the community and across the state. James was a member of the First Baptist Church of Pineville. He was one of the founding members of the Bell County Volunteer Fire Department and served as an officer, firefighter or member for 37 years. He was Past President of the Bell County 4-H Adult Council. James served as Past President of the Pineville Kiwanis and was an honorary lifetime member of the club. He was also the Past President of the Bell County Shrine Club and an Ambassador of the Oleika Shrine Temple. He was a lifetime member of the Bell Lodge #691 and the Northern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite. Additionally, James was a past officer and member of Pineville Chapter #89 Order of the Eastern Star. He received many public honors and recognitions as well. James was an Honorary Kentucky Colonel; Colonel, Aide de Camp, Commissioner's Staff of the Kentucky State Police, Commonwealth of Kentucky; Honorary Judge Executive Knox County, KY; and an Honorary Citizen of Pineville. James is survived by his loving wife and steadfast companion, Bernadine Carnes Mills of Arjay, KY. He is also survived by his three children: Bridget (Gary) Baker of Middlesboro, KY; James Ernest (Deborah) Mills Jr. and Rev. Timothy Hobart Mills both of Arjay. Four special grandchildren: James Ernest Mills III of Arjay, KY, Brittany Elizabeth Baker of Middlesboro, KY, Megan Danielle Mills of Richmond, KY, and Morgan Alexandria Mills of Arjay, KY. He is also survived by two sisters: Bobbie Jean (Alton Ray) Hicks of Manchester, KY and Peggy Mills King (Bert) of Mt. Vernon, KY. A sister, Alice (John) Shelton preceded him in death. A sister-in-law, Imogene Mills of Arjay, KY also survives him. Also mourning his passing is a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Serving the family as pallbearers are his nephews: Douglas Critt Hicks, Bert Hanley King and Joey Shelton. Cousins serving as pallbearers are: Curt Messer, Glen Messer, LeRoy Hale, Ben Tye Smith, Donnie Mills, Lowell Mills, Jerry Lee Mills and Jerry Mills. Honorary pallbearers are: T.J. Carnes, Gobel Hale, Frank D. Bingham, Kenneth Messer, Otis Mills, Bell County Shriners and Bell County Volunteer firefighters. Visitation will be held at the First Baptist Church of Pineville, KY on Friday, August 26, 2016 from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 27, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour at 2:00 p.m. The service will be conducted by his son, Rev. Tim H. Mills, as his children will lead in the celebration of his life. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: The UT Medical Center Cancer Institute, 1926 Alcoa Highway Suite 310, Knoxville, TN 37920; Shriner's Hospital for Crippled Children c/o Bell County Shrine Club, P.O. Box 991, Middlesboro, KY 40965 or First Baptist Church, 405 West Kentucky Avenue, Pineville, KY 40977. Interment will be in the Binghamtown Cemetery at Dewitt, KY immediately following the funeral service. Masonic funeral rites will be conducted at the cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by the Hopper Funeral Home of Barbourville, KY

Becoming a Teacher

You know that summer is coming to a close when the local football team is having two-a- day practice sessions, teachers are talking about in-service days prior to school beginning and students are in full swing either preparing for school or talking about it in a dreadful way. Any day now we should see school bus drivers making practice runs and school zone signs should be flashing reminding drivers to lower their speed and drive extra cautious in those areas. School is one of those institutional experiences not to mention a requirement by law that provides the opportunity for our children and teenagers to grow, learn and experience the beginning of some of the many opportunities and challenges they will face throughout their lifetime. While some students look upon education in a negative view school is a real opportunity to change the mindset or at least expose students to truth, even if it is not embraced full by them. Teachers are uniquely placed in a position because of their chosen profession to impact the lives of not just students but parents and even siblings. Students need inspiration, motivation and encouragement. It could be said that this same prescription is what we all need, but even more so when the mind is developing and a students interest is teased and absorbing knowledge. My personal experience in motivating others has faced many challenges. Meeting a mind that has been allowed to remain dormant with no encouragement regarding opinion, or empowerment for self expression puts motivators in a position that could allow for an easy 'giving-up' on them attitude. This however doesn't excuse us from the responsibility of engaging and helping students and others from finding a new height, new experience or even a new opportunity. Standing before us in time is a moment to make a difference for another individual using our talents, interest and experiences. As this new school year begins I want to challenge not just teachers but parents of young children, we grandparents and even neighbors of children and teens to seize a moment to invest in someone else. Will we meet resistance, yes by some. Will others latch on and become absorbing machines of learning, yes if we are willing to give. There is no opportunity like today to become a teacher if not in the classroom, then by becoming a teachers outside the classroom. Until then

An even of history and the political conventions of the day

The highlights of the Republican National Convention were marked by what I believe can be defined in two word. Division and hostility. The highlights of the Democratic National Convention can easily be described in the same fashion in my opinion. In my lifetime I know Republicans that 'hate' other Republicans. While 'hate' is a strong word the truth is what it is. In my lifetime I've known Democrats that demonstrate the same behaviors and like their counterparts the Republicans they each consider their actions to be acceptable and all a part of their duty because of devotion to the party. When leaders see their personal responsibility as such they the end result is selfishness and failed leadership that impacts all level of organization and society. The hostilities witness at both of the leading political party conventions remind me of another time in history that was filled with deceit, backstabbing, plots and long laid plans designed to fill the self-serving interesting of the political leadership of the day. That historical event was devised to trick Jesus into not being 'politically correct' which would result in His arrest, beating and if the plan goes as schemed the people would publically turn against Him. If the long laid plans were to turn our perfectly as developed by the political leadership of that day then the people would also demand His crucifixion. If you are a student of history then you know that Jesus didn't fall to their attempts, He stood true to His purpose and plan as designed by His Father in Heaven. The back-up plan of the political leadership was implemented and the lies of those in power convinced the public and the religious leadership of the day to have him arrested on lies and push through His conviction and settle the issue of Jesus quickly and permanently. The hierarchy of the day misjudge the real impact of a single life lived to make a difference for others. The life of Jesus has changed the lives of millions and His teachings have impacted governments since His Star first rose giving guidance to those in search of the place where the Savior of the World was born in Bethlehem. My advice is to follow and elect Jesus in your personal life. My advice for the RNC and the DNC is to take a lesson and learn from history the only plans that last are the ones that honor Him. Until then

Eyes on the plow

Scripture in the Holy Bible talks about keeping our hands on the plow. The scriptural reference from the book of Luke speaks to the attitude a Christian is best served with regarding those moment in our lives we wish could be easily forgotten by others and even more especially ourselves. Sin and disobedience are two difficult conversation and the subject matters are even more difficult when the point of reference is we ourselves. We would not have much difficulty in talking about the sin and disobedience of others but when the subject is personalized it becomes difficult and challenging to address. When Dr. Luke in the Bible writes about keeping our hands on the plow the reference is about a Christians individual who understands their greatest need in life, which is forgiveness from their sins. The meaning continues that a Christian is best served by not looking back at their sins and the past mistakes, struggles and battles. The reason being by looking back we loose our ability to plow a straight row and future which is before us. The sins we commit can be issues that bring life long consequences by still immediate forgiveness. Directing our focus on the future is always wise. Knowing where it is we as individual have come from is also beneficial. Focusing on our past is a downfall and a personal failure and drag to "Pressing Forward" as the Apostle Paul suggested. Paul and Luke are both offering Holy Spirit guidance for living life, getting back up, and moving forward. Luke said 'Don't look back' and Paul said 'Forgetting that which is behind'. The struggle I personally continue to see in my life and in the lives of those I care about is their thinking that they are capable of living the Christian life on their own. If the guilt over our personal failures is added to the mix then the weight of such a moment because a burden that we might perceive to be one we cannot even cast on Him because of our weakness. If this is your thinking then know this. His love for us was before we call on Him. His decision to give us the gift of forgiveness is not based on any part of our actions. The price is one He paid and the gift is His to give, not us to earn. Until then

Tilting off our Axis

Not a day seems to pass that the world in which we live seems to be more and more 'off her rocker' with the tilt seeming to be one in which we cannot recover from preventing our fall. When I was in high school science class I learned all about the world, and her rotating axis, how the world spins and what seemed to be useless knowledge then but valuable information to me currently. The earth rotates once in 24 hours, as does the average news cycle and reports we hear day in and day out. If I were to mention 'Polaris' all the 4-wheeling fans will think immediately I have gotten confused in writing this newspaper column and intertwined thoughts of the earth and adventure fun and that 'Polaris' has nothing to do with earth conversation except for mud, water, climbing and dust. However as a point of education the 'Polaris' is the North Star or our guide and reference point in the sky. Life has a guiding star, guide and reference point too. Over 2,000 years ago the Star of Bethlehem was that guiding point and as was then and still today, wise men and women still seek Him. Him being the child of Bethlehem born as Savior of the world...His name being Jesus the Christ. It can be very easy to dismiss my thoughts and conversation ideas but the truth is that Jesus is real as is the 'Polaris', the North Star and truly the earth does rotate on her axis keeping the world spinning around and around. Truths can be sometimes difficult to talk about or understand but that doesn't change the fact that they are true. In a world of chaos, confusion and challenges the answer for each of these is Jesus Christ....the Star of Bethlehem. When the world spins terrible news and tragic events, the answer is Jesus. When it seems like we as a citizens of this nation are in a free fall the answer is Jesus. The best advice I can share is that the method that most prepares us for unwanted news or events is to be solid in our faith and relationship with the answer before world tilts off her axis. Until then

4th of July Cassarole

The 4th of July is a moment of fireworks, the lake, trip 4-wheeling in mountains, vacation week on the beach, block parties and food. One matter in which I take some level of self-pride within would be giving myself credit that I can fix a meal! I so enjoy cooking and I believe tied with that ranking would be enjoying people eating my cooking. The self-pleasure is satisfying knowing those eating are enjoying the experience too. This 4th of July I really had one thing I had to do and then I had my list of things I could do too. Checking off that which had to be done first required me to self-give a Humira shot. Then I figured I would fix myself a casserole that would require 35 minutes of cooking in the oven and then it would be a small party of me at the table enjoying the 4th Holiday. Sadly my plans did not work our as expected. After self-administering the Humira shot I found my eyes laying heavy and without any notice or announcement I would later discover in an awaken mode I had been asleep for the past 6 hours and that wonderfully prepared casserole scheduled for 35 minutes at 400 degrees had now experienced the adventure of 6 hours of baking which had filled my entire home with an odor that had me totally confused. My first though was that the smell and smoke was from fireworks the neighbor's had set-off, but not being the normal fireworks odor I continued to look for the source. In time I remember I had something cooking in the oven however it looked now like a high school science project or the worse possible home economics meal ever prepared. Fully baked beyond a total crisp and black the only recognizable color I just closed the oven door, opened the house windows and doors and ignited a candle in my attempt to put some kind of new swell in the air. Life can often be this way. We make our own plans, not rushing to get anything done, we are attempting to do as little as possible and simply enjoy the moment when all doesn't go as planned. Did I get upset...no not really. I had no other person to blame. Was I annoyed by the experience totally, but I found a bit of humor in the experience too. LIfe doesn't always go as we plan but that shouldn't stop us from making plans and looking forward to a good casserole one day, just not on this day. Until then.

Union College - Barbourville; First Baptist - Spartanburg;

Nestled in the pioneering adventures of Dr. Thomas Walker, the City of Barbourville-Knox County and Union College each summer is host to the First Baptist Church of Spartanburg and a youth ministry that meets in their city at a place called "The Hanger". What began in 1969 as a type of exploratory mission trip to the Appalachian Mountains to search out ministry opportunities has now become a part of their and our history all in its own rights and merits. During this time of the summer each year our area seems inundated with white vans, Vacation Bible Schools, basketball camps along with our areas local famous greasy spoons are filled during lunch and dinner time with teenagers and adults all wearing the same color t-shirts with the slogan "Legacy". Rev Seth Buckley is the Minister of Students leading this group of 200 plus volunteers who will reach over 5,000 children, teenagers and adults through their efforts to share the Good News, that Jesus Christ loves you and me. This Kentucky Mission Project, as it is known at First Spartanburg, conducts Vacation Bibles Schools in the morning and in the evenings. This allows for double the opportunity for students to demonstrate their love for Christ and His love for all they come into contact with throughout the week long trip. The students who have been in your churches, or who you have met or passed at a store or on the highway have worked hard to be a part of this experience. They go through an interview process, a time of studying and learning evangelism methods, learning songs and motions that will enhance the words and demonstrate the meaning of the song. This might sound easy in part, but it takes months of preparation, efforts and dedication. Every person I know who have ever attended either as a volunteer or as a participant here in Kentucky has walked away with a memory or an impression that will never be forgotten in their lifetime. Thanks First Baptist for coming to Kentucky and Thanks Union College for hosting our great friends from South Carolina. Until then

Planting Corn

At the end of each year during our thinking time around New Years Eve, many folks begin to think about resolutions. There are from time to time resolutions, or commitments we make, that require no action until spring time. This type of New Year resolution might be one that takes you back to your childhood. For example the commitment to plant a garden. Year after year some folks make no though about a garden because they already know they are going to raise their own vegetables, they have been planting in the same field, location or spot in their back yard for years. A matter of fact, if we didn't see the ground turned or folks tending to the 'usual' we would be asking the question and wondering if they were going to raise a garden this year. While this annual rite of family tradition is a given for some, others might have decided to go back to their childhood memories and do some planting and venture out into the world of gardening and farming. If you have never planted a garden or raised your own vegetables the task can be challenging. Just consider the options for planting corn. Frying up a mess of fresh corn sounds easy but getting corn to the dinner table is not that easy, unless of course you are just buying a dozen ears from your local grocery or road side stand. The challenge of getting fried corn, corn pudding, corn casserole, corn risotto, corn on the cob, corn salsa, corn salad, or even corn chowder to the table requires growers to first figure out what type of corn to plant. Your options include: Silver Queen; Peaces & Cream; Bubble Gum; Cotton Candy; Kandy Korn; Jubilee; just to mention a few. Lots of options and choices. All this thinking makes you want to just say yellow or white corn, because all the options can be overwhelming. Making a decision about faith can be challenging too. Challenging because there are many options for folks to select from. You don't have to place your trust and faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. You can live life anyway you want to, but without surveying the options which include Him, life will always require us to re-stuff the scarecrow or keep looking for a way to keep the crows from picking our harvest. Jesus Christ offers faith, hope and love. All of which can only be harvested if we accept His free give of life and allow Him to plant the seed in our life which grows eternal. Until then

Walnut Hill Baptist Church - 125 years

Looking back at our history can be challenging. In our current generation we like to remember those individuals, events and places we can remember and have connected with. Most often we reflect on the history we know and the history we like. After. all who passes down history that is not favorable? If you are smiling after reading the last comment then I am going to say we are on the same page. Our make-up, as a people, is a real mix. Here in the land of the Cumberland Gap our area has been influenced by the Scottish, German's, English and let's not forget the original residents of this area, the Shawnee Indians. The land surrounding the Cumberland Gap and the development of this region was aided by those traveling on foot, horseback and wagon, not to mention the cattle, pigs, and goats used for trading. The Southwestern corner of the Commonwealth of Virginia has been a neighbor and friend to Kentuckians and Tennesseans since long before either of these two became a member of the Union. The travels of these settlers who crossed the Cumberland Gap established homes, communities, churches and cities as they cut away the brush extending the Wilderness Road not only to Barbourville but beyond. The Walnut Hill Baptist Church, Ewing, Virginia is located along side the Wilderness Road east of the Cumberland Gap. The church is located in what must have been clearly an area filled with walnut trees. The congregation of Walnut Hill is nestled in between Martin's Stations and the Gap. Church meetings began in the year 1891 and have continued with the purpose of helping folks discover the love God has and plan God has for our lives. One of the joys of ministry is serving a congregation and being a part of their unique history as a church records their actions to tell the story of Jesus. Celebrating 125 years of church history congratulations are in order as the people gather this Sunday for worship. Remembering their past, reviewing their history and evaluating where they are today will be a great guide to the leadership of the Holy Spirit in their work and ministry for the next 125 years or at least until His return. Until then.

Easter....bunny?

Recently traveling in my automobile I noticed a slogan on a store marquee that read: "Sorry Bunny, Easter is for Jesus". Upon reading I immediately smiled. There was something speaking to my brain saying this is funny and this is correct too. It was funny because the slogan was cleaver and crafty. The most successful advertisement campaigns are those that cause us to think and this signs message accomplished that quickly. It is not only possible but highly probable that others might see the same sign and be wondering what It means. Easter is a familiar term often expressed in conversation around this time of the year but the meaning no doubt has a lost understanding for many, if not possible a majority or more of those we share society with. When my siblings and I were being born in the 1950's, 60's Easter was a big deal not only in our family but in society. When was the last time you experienced a clothing retailer advertising the sale of Easter clothing so you children would look 'picture perfect' for church on Easter Sunday morning? That's what I thought, you can't remember. The loss meaning of Easter in society is not the fault of a bunny or any rabbit. The loss is because the importance of honoring God or the practice of publicly demonstrating our faith with such practices has fallen from the priority list of Christians. Wearing new clothing or dressing up for church will not make you a Christian just as going to church does not make you a Christian. Dressing up could be a reminder that He deserves our best. After all, Easter represents that time of the year that Jesus Christ gave His best and His all for us on a Cross at Calvary. Forgiveness is a universal need. We can practice forgiving one another for hurts or misunderstandings, but only Jesus can forgive sin in the heart and this is the real meaning of Easter. Until then

Happy 'springtime' Happy Jesus time too!

In the phrase "springtime" I automatically hear great weather, flowers and baseball. It is amazing what we hear when we are really listening and even more so when we know what we want to hear. I confess my disposition for great weather is in an always status and I am man enough to say I love flowers, landscaping and even yard statues. As for baseball being a part of my "springtime" mindset allow me to write my baseball thoughts as ice cream and apple pie! Growing-up I remember flying a kite in March because this month is always windy. Spring weather includes a wide array of weather related possibilities including floods, tornados, and dreaded lightening bolts from the sky. Two direct opposite weather experiences all in the same month not to mention the possibility of hearing one thing and two different people have two entirely different thoughts from hearing the exact same words. Christianity is a word that can strike just as many different thoughts in an individual's mind too. My first thoughts are love and plan. I have no doubts or questions regarding God's love because I believe the scripture John 3:16. Plan comes to my mind because there are only two plans in life and each is clearly defined in John 10:10 in the Bible....another scripture that I totally believe and have based my life of faith upon. With the arrival of "springtime" and the windy every changing weather of March it is difficult to predict what exactly will be ones weather experience. With respect to weather there is no real variable to predict any particular weather to occur with regularity but with respect to faith there is plenty that can be predicted. The fact that Jesus is a friend that sticks by closer than a brother is well worth clinging to no matter the storms that will blow in and out of our lives. Happy "springtime" and happy Jesus time too! Until then

A Balm in Gilead

If I were to ask if you'd like to sign up for a hospital visit and stay I am figuring your answer will be "not interested". When it comes to hospital visits many will hear the call of care and concern when our friends and neighbor's are in for a procedure, surgery or recovery period, but even then, our plans are to make the visit short, encouraging and did I write short? Quick visits to family members and friends who are hospitalized might see rude but the healthy truth is that if you are in the hospital it is for a reason and I'm confident rest is vital to a heathy recovery. While no one wants to be admitted to a hospital for any reason, unless it's to give birth to a child, the fact remains we try to avoid such institutions as much as humanly possible. There are many things that you can count on while participating in your 'patient status'. 1) Expect to receive shots, required to swallow medications, and answer a lot of questions. 2) Expect to be in a bed where getting comfortable will be totally out of the question. 3) Expect to hear good news, bad news or answers that will require additional follow-ups. As a minister often the duties or services that have been necessary required up early in the morning, out late in the evening or night and lots of explaining with a encouraging hope that God has a plan. The task is not only daunting but exhausting physically and spiritually. There are many songs about Jesus as the Master Physician and scripture speaks of a Balm in Gilead. We sing of this Balm from the African American Spiritual, "There is a Balm in Gilead". The search for healing has been a journey traveled by many, even Edgar Allan Poe. In the last stanzas of his poem The Raven: "Prophet!" Said I, "thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil! Whether Tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore. Desolate yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted - On this home by Horror haunted - tell me - tell me - I implore - "Is there - is there balm in Gilead? - Tell me - tell me, I implore!" Quoth the Raven "Nevermore" Hospital visits, hospital stays, all this not forever more but rather just until our Savior and the sweet release of the 'Balm' that does last forever more. Until then

Is life a test or an opportunity?

There are many milestone identifiers used by those evaluating and observing our lives as to our character and substance from which our lives derive both purpose and meaning. Milestones are those clearly visible moments, events, statements or actions which define us as an individual. It could be said that life and the living of life is a challenge and that every step of the journey is a test. When the words: challenge; journey; or test; are written, these could trigger an array of different reactions and or individual responses. A challenge by my definition is something that causes everything within me to get ready. Whereas a journey, I would describe as a trip that could end up landing anywhere, it has no set location goal. Along the journeys of our lives we leave markers indicating we were once here. Each of these milestones can be highlighted differently. Sometimes the achievements in our lives are bright shiny signs that leave lots of information about how our journey brought us to this point while others dictators of our travels would be best described as clues leaving those observing the responsibility of putting the puzzle pieces together. There are individuals who live life as if it is like a basketball game which provides network tv timeouts, you can call your own team time-outs, others teams can call their own time-outs and you've even got an extended break at half-time to recover, re-think and even re-evaluate your 'life' game plan. If you are the type of person that likes to be in control then living your life through the trust of faith will never be easy. Letting go, (or more clearly written so there is no misunderstanding in my meaning of 'Letting go', means you have released your grip and you no longer are maintaining any control) and you are facing every challenge and life not as a test, but all the unexpected things in life as an opportunity for you to live another day of your faith in the view of others to evaluate and observe. Until then

All the dots coming together

There are many questioning today the power of the church. Actually the question might best be understood by asking what is the relevance of the church in today's society. After all the power of the church resides in the omnipotent power of God and the church is a unique tool for the assembling, equipping and sending mechanism for followers of Jesus to go and make a difference. Surrounding the local church today is the questioning by society as to its importance, value and even relevance in our daily lives. This question has encompassed the work of the church because so often the church seems to be out of step with society, and stuck in a cycle of tradition and ritual that just doesn't have any impact or relevance. This lack of influence by the church seems to be a given especially when one considers how fast the world moves today with all her modern technology, advances in communication and fast breaking news that can happen in any remote location yet known around the world in minutes. To accept the fore written as a valid truth is easy for many because the questions surrounding, encompassing and considerations of the churches value is being asked by many of our neighbor's, co-workers and friends. Our lack of answers or relevant examples of the important work of the church that does impact and change lives seems to be, in many congregations, non-existent. Nevertheless even without a response from us God's love and plan are in play, active and alive for every individual on planet earth. The power of the church today is best witnessed when Christians are actively involved in sharing the impact of God in their lives because of the personal relationship shared with the creator of the Universe. The church with the founder Jesus Christ is the one resource that provides meaning to life, value to existence and answers to questions. And when all else seems to be void the gifts of faith and hope rule as guides in our lives with the fact of His love, the greatest gift, providing the connecting point, bring all the dots together. Until then

My friend "Patti Mac" - Patti McDonald Adams

Life offers through the course of its journey the opportunity to meet people at all of the different stages and travels from our lives. Some of these opportunities to meet people will be growing relationships throughout our lives while others will be for a specific time period that will never be forgotten, always celebrated and remembered with fondness. There is another category of opportunities and people that is very difficult to explain. It is that friendship from life's journey that is filled with random re-connections that have this magical element of "picking up exactly where you last left off and your conversation and friendship continues on without ever missing a single moment". Patti McDonald Adams was a friend of impact in the lives of countless numbers and was a golden gem and treasurer to her family. If standing around having a conversation or simply over hearing a conversation between others if you heard the reference 'Patti Mac', your face would instantly be smiling from ear to ear and you were eager to interrupt and join the conversation because you held in common a friendship with one of the all time great's who was always smiling and whose personality was the life of your laughter. The journey we are each on in life has many twists and turns. Sometimes the roller coaster of life is a blast to be on and we have our arms and hands extended waving in the air without a care or fear. Sometimes the roller coast ride is shifting us side to side and the beat and the bangs are a welcomed stop at the rides end. The friendship Patti and I enjoyed became one of randomness because of relocations, work, and travels. Uniquely it seemed at each of my journeys Patti Mac would show up. When I moved to Nashville, Tn., one of my first conversations was, yes with Patti Mac. I had walked into the home of Shannon and Melissa Bunch with the phone being handed to me with the instructions "Tim Hobart" the phone is for you. On Sunday, January 24 when I walked into Patti's room she opened her eyes, began smiling and said "well hello Tim Hobart". That was the Patti I knew and she blessed my life through our friendship. To me she is best described as one of a kind, indeed! Until then

Leap Year 2016 and the day 29

Hello 2016! At the close of every year individuals make resolutions, setting in motion plans to achieve their goals. When I read or hear the word resolution I always think of being 'resolutely resolved'. To be resolved is firm in your commitment, steadfast and determine. To be resolved implies a debt paid in full, the balance released, a loosening of restraints and resolved also implies final. These descriptions help us to fully understand what we are saying and with what amount of force and belief we extend in our statements. Resolutions include decisions like loosing weight, exercising to maintain health, the discipline of sitting down to read a book, to begin writing and journaling your thoughts, stories and experiences. Resolutions could also include decisions to end a relationship, change our attitude or our quickness to dismiss the opinion of others without listening first. Reconnecting with family or friends would be a great resolution as would forgiving others for their actions which may have been intentional or maybe they still remain without a clue as to the impact of their actions on others, you more especially. Any or all of these sound like they would be positive resolutions and proper steps for the beginning of a new year any year. The fact that this year is a "Leap Year" many might not even be aware of at this point. Come February everyone is going to discover the how and why this year's February will have 29 days and not the normal 28 days. With 366 days to work with in 2016 what have you decided resolutely? This year the God Lord above has uniquely give us an extra day. Will you use it wisely? Will you decided to treat Feb 29th as just another day? Why not do something special and use the day to advance the cause of "Making the World a Better Place"? If you have procrastinated on making any New Year Resolutions seize this opportunity to 'resolutely resolve' to intentionally use God's extra day, February 29, 2016 as your day to make a difference in the life of another. If you want to be really creative why not use the 29th of everyday this year to make a difference in one life. You've still got time to plan....January 29th has not yet arrived. Until then.

Remembering Vic Morris from Cumberland High School, Harlan County, Ky.

In the eastern coal field of Kentucky "we mountain folk" are proud of our family name and from where we hail. Who we are and the character we cherish is often the direct reflection of the heritage, values and experiences we shared with our parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents. The name Vic Morris is one that is immediately known to the residents of Cumberland, Kentucky, Harlan County and even more so to sports fans in the Commonwealth. His notoriety is such because there isn't a single person who walked the halls of Cumberland Elementary School, Cumberland High School or played basketball or baseball that didn't realize, in time, that Vic Morris was indeed unique. As a student himself he was a stand-out baseball player who went on to play baseball as as an "Indian" at Cumberland College in Williamsburg. While at Cumberland he became the First All-American in Baseball History. His children, like their father, all were athletically inclined. Even his grandchildren have excelled in their athletic pursuits. After college Vic returned to Harlan County beginning and finishing his educational career impacting lives by simply living out his Christian Faith and by striving to make a difference. What made Vic Morris unique as an educator was that he could be and often was firm, tough, and a no-nonsense kind of teacher, but that was not the totality of Vic Morris. What made him unique and even extraordinary was alongside his firmness was a genuine care to see everyone succeed. He believed that young people could succeed and that the role adults played was to believe, support and encourage students to dream and dream big. As a student growing up I knew when someone really wanted the best for me and when their words were from their heart and life of experience. I first met Vic and his wife Lunelle 33 years ago while attending Cumberland College in Williamsburg. Because of Richie and our friendship I met Lewis, Amy and Daniel too. I am grinning ear to ear as I write that my life has never been the same either! Real friendships are few and building such a relationship takes time and commitment. Vic and Lunelle Morris were a special couple for many reasons. As husband and wife they complimented each other. If one of them was talking with you the other one would soon be there to say hello with a handshake, hug and a smile. Like many parents if you loved or liked their kids then they loved and liked you back. What you might not be expecting was the second part of that love and liking. It also meant that they would substitute for your parents, keeping you in line and watching out for your well being too. I can hear Vic now seeing me and greeting me with a big "Hobart". It was the sound of friendship that now is a precious memory. Until then