I don’t think there are many things better in life than experiencing the joy and laughter of a child. Last night, since we were iced in, we invited Krystal, Justin, and Brynley over for dinner. They live less than a mile away and wanted to get out of the house for a little while. When they arrived we were waiting on dinner to finish cooking and Tami was busy with some project, so I asked Brynley if she wanted to play. With a big smile and excitement in her voice she said, “Yes!” So I asked if she wanted me to bring some toys into our family room or if she wanted to go to her play room. The play room! She took me by the hand and led me back to the room where we keep her toys. She opened the door and we walked in, ready for some Papa and Brynley time.
The first thing we did was sit at her drawing table and write. I spelled my name and Brynley’s name then had her try doing the same thing. I had a wet paper towel to clean the white board, and she was prompt to point out spots I missed. The fun we had drawing and writing was priceless. After that we had to go play with her barn animals. Brynley has a little barn with stalls for the animals, and when you open their gate the barn makes the noise of that animal. So we made sure that every animal was in the right stall. The ‘neigh,’ that’s a horse to us and is Brynley’s favorite animal, the pig, the sheep, the cow, and the chicken. We laughed at the animal sounds coming out of the barn and moved the animals around like we were really out on the farm.
From there it was on to her doll house. I’m so glad I know how to spell it because apparently I don’t know how to pronounce it! Lol. Last weekend at the Couple’s Breakaway I read a question with the word doll in it and only Jennifer Brasnick understood what I was saying. My sister wasn’t in the room when this was going on, so when she came in they asked her to say the word, and she said it identical to me. Anyway, back to my play date. We played with Brynley’s doll house that had a daddy doll, a mommy doll, a Brynley doll, and a Haven doll. Haven is Brynley’s little sister who is going to be born next week!
Those few moments of quality time with Brynley are so special because she normally wants her mommy or Mimi. But it was just us two having some alone time, and even though she will forget about our play date in a few days these times will always hold a special place in my heart. Just as that time with Brynley was so special, I know that Jesus is just waiting for special alone time with me. He wants to teach me how to follow His Word, how to enjoy His wonderful creation, and how to just be filled with joy because all I want is to be with Him for a special time.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Why Such a Hurry?
Last week we celebrated Valentine’s Day and I set up a nice romantic meal for Tami and myself. We don’t go out to nice places often, so I wanted to make it special and made reservations at a favorite place where we hadn’t been for a few years. I really like the anticipation of the evening where Tami gets all dressed up and I do the best with what God has given me.
One of the fun aspects of our dates is that Tami always tries to figure out where we are going to be eating. In my sermon on Sunday I told how she will just start asking questions about where we are going and won’t stop. She knows how to read my face and knows when she chooses the right restaurant just off my expression, so this year I was determined not to let her know where we were going to eat. I simply refused to look at her while she would interrogate me about our plans. She kept saying “Look at me!” but I held my own and didn’t buckle. Finally the night of our date arrived, and I totally fooled her and took her to an unexpected place and proudly surprised her.
This leads to the point of the story. If I’m going out to a nice restaurant with my wife looking all fancy and dolled up, I don’t want to be done with dinner in 30 minutes. Normally Tami and I will sit and talk, and we tell the waiter or waitress that we will let them know when we are ready to order. We settled in and got our drinks, and we were both really hungry so we decided to order our appetizer. We’ve learned from past experience that we shouldn’t give our whole order because it will be out way too fast. Our waiter pushed to get our whole order and assured us time and time again that he would not put in the next course until we were finished with the course we were eating. Yes, I buckled and gave our whole order. Sure enough, it backfired. As soon as we ate the last of our appetizer our salads were at the table. We were halfway through our salad and a gentleman brought out our entrée and was setting it down when I explained that it’d be nice to finish my salad before my entrée was sitting on the table. He apologized and took our food back to the warmer. I’m sure they didn’t cook a new, fresh order for us.
In our lives there are areas where we have to take control. I have to take control if I’m going to have a vibrant relationship with Christ. I have to take control if my family is going to follow the path that God has for us. I have to take control if I’m going to be effective as an employee at my job. The world will try to tell me what to do and how to do it, but I need to be obedient to the voice of the Lord and His Word that teaches me how to live. When the world says “act this way,” I must make sure it lines up with God’s plan, and if it doesn’t then I send it back. You have the power to take control in your spiritual journey with Christ; will you?
One of the fun aspects of our dates is that Tami always tries to figure out where we are going to be eating. In my sermon on Sunday I told how she will just start asking questions about where we are going and won’t stop. She knows how to read my face and knows when she chooses the right restaurant just off my expression, so this year I was determined not to let her know where we were going to eat. I simply refused to look at her while she would interrogate me about our plans. She kept saying “Look at me!” but I held my own and didn’t buckle. Finally the night of our date arrived, and I totally fooled her and took her to an unexpected place and proudly surprised her.
This leads to the point of the story. If I’m going out to a nice restaurant with my wife looking all fancy and dolled up, I don’t want to be done with dinner in 30 minutes. Normally Tami and I will sit and talk, and we tell the waiter or waitress that we will let them know when we are ready to order. We settled in and got our drinks, and we were both really hungry so we decided to order our appetizer. We’ve learned from past experience that we shouldn’t give our whole order because it will be out way too fast. Our waiter pushed to get our whole order and assured us time and time again that he would not put in the next course until we were finished with the course we were eating. Yes, I buckled and gave our whole order. Sure enough, it backfired. As soon as we ate the last of our appetizer our salads were at the table. We were halfway through our salad and a gentleman brought out our entrée and was setting it down when I explained that it’d be nice to finish my salad before my entrée was sitting on the table. He apologized and took our food back to the warmer. I’m sure they didn’t cook a new, fresh order for us.
In our lives there are areas where we have to take control. I have to take control if I’m going to have a vibrant relationship with Christ. I have to take control if my family is going to follow the path that God has for us. I have to take control if I’m going to be effective as an employee at my job. The world will try to tell me what to do and how to do it, but I need to be obedient to the voice of the Lord and His Word that teaches me how to live. When the world says “act this way,” I must make sure it lines up with God’s plan, and if it doesn’t then I send it back. You have the power to take control in your spiritual journey with Christ; will you?
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you it took our waiter 45 minutes to cash us out so we were there for almost two hours. What a date!
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Have to Love Hanging Stuff
Late yesterday afternoon I arrived home ready for a nice dinner and some time to relax from a busy day that included working out just before I came home. When I went to freshen up, Tami followed me, looking excited about something. When I asked why, she informed me that she was eager for me to hang the new decorations she had purchased that day.
I knew that dinner had to be prepared, dishes done, and pans hand washed. I told her that there was a lot to do and that it’d be better if I waited until Friday when I was off work. Tami told me that she wanted it done right after my shower, so I knew that I would be hanging things in a short time.
It’s not that I mind hanging things, but I prefer to do it at a time of my choosing, when I’m alone so I can take breaks or relax if I get frustrated because things are not going right, and when I’m not coming off a busy day. So, needless to say, my excitement level was far different than Tami’s. When I entered our family room I saw that I was not just hanging one shelf but two, almost side-by-side. Each would have to be hung level with the shelf next to it, but they were a funky shape so that made it more difficult. Also, the notches where the screw heads would hold up the shelves would have to be calculated into the measurements.
All said and done, the project was accomplished and it all looks nice. The hanging process brought stress and caused me to not be the most patient of men. I don’t think I said or did anything that I’d be ashamed of, but why do I allow such a simple thing to frustrate me? I know Tami, and I know she is enjoying her home, so you’d think that I’d just relax and do the project. Unfortunately I get the same way in my spiritual life. I’m a person who likes routine and I know my routine. When God starts messing with my routine, it creates stress in my life that I don’t want; however, I need to remember that God isn’t there for my comfort but to teach me how to be a better man. That means stretching me by tossing in a project or activity that I may wish to avoid but will learn through: learning patience, trusting Him, and doing whatever I’m asked, when I’m asked—not to make my life easier, but to make me stronger!
I knew that dinner had to be prepared, dishes done, and pans hand washed. I told her that there was a lot to do and that it’d be better if I waited until Friday when I was off work. Tami told me that she wanted it done right after my shower, so I knew that I would be hanging things in a short time.
It’s not that I mind hanging things, but I prefer to do it at a time of my choosing, when I’m alone so I can take breaks or relax if I get frustrated because things are not going right, and when I’m not coming off a busy day. So, needless to say, my excitement level was far different than Tami’s. When I entered our family room I saw that I was not just hanging one shelf but two, almost side-by-side. Each would have to be hung level with the shelf next to it, but they were a funky shape so that made it more difficult. Also, the notches where the screw heads would hold up the shelves would have to be calculated into the measurements.
All said and done, the project was accomplished and it all looks nice. The hanging process brought stress and caused me to not be the most patient of men. I don’t think I said or did anything that I’d be ashamed of, but why do I allow such a simple thing to frustrate me? I know Tami, and I know she is enjoying her home, so you’d think that I’d just relax and do the project. Unfortunately I get the same way in my spiritual life. I’m a person who likes routine and I know my routine. When God starts messing with my routine, it creates stress in my life that I don’t want; however, I need to remember that God isn’t there for my comfort but to teach me how to be a better man. That means stretching me by tossing in a project or activity that I may wish to avoid but will learn through: learning patience, trusting Him, and doing whatever I’m asked, when I’m asked—not to make my life easier, but to make me stronger!
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Not Into Back Pain
Last weekend, Tami decided to search for something in our attic even though I assured her it wasn’t there. I knew that she would never be able to get up in our garage attic, so I went up for her. Such a loving husband! Lol
While searching in the attic I figured it was a good time to start throwing away stuff that we have not used in years: old VHS tapes, broken suitcases, damaged Christmas decorations, and some other things. As I was tossing them down into the garage I confirmed what I knew from the beginning—that the item Tami had me searching for was not in any of our attics. As I was getting ready to climb down, I thought of one other item I should get out. It was a luggage carrier that mounted to the top of our car, and it had been in the attic for 10 years. We no longer have the car and with an SUV we have no use for it. I began pulling and trying to work it through the rafters. Then it happened, something I’d never done before and hope to never do again: I pulled a muscle in my lower back, and it stopped me from doing anything else.
I’ve heard from people who’ve done this but never imagined that I would someday experience it myself. I guess I’ve entered a new phase of my life. Somebody needs to tell Tami so she’s easier on me. I climbed down the ladder, put the carrier away, went into the house, and sat in my chair. The more time passed, the stiffer my back grew, and I was soon walking around like an old man. I took pills, sat with a heating pad on my back, and even slept a few hours on the couch to get comfortable. It’s been four days, and every day it’s getting a little better, and I’ve learned that I will not do something like that again.
Going through that experience got me thinking about my spiritual life. Am I aware when I do something that brings harm to my relationship with Christ? Do I know what conviction is and understand that it’s there to help me stay healthy? When I do harm to my spiritual walk, do I take the proper steps to get back to the place I need to be with the Lord—like on my knees at an altar or in the Word? I may need to talk to a pastor or somebody I highly respect spiritually. My physical body will recover because I’m being careful and nursing it back to good health, but I need to make sure that I’m taking care of my spiritual wellness in the same way.
While searching in the attic I figured it was a good time to start throwing away stuff that we have not used in years: old VHS tapes, broken suitcases, damaged Christmas decorations, and some other things. As I was tossing them down into the garage I confirmed what I knew from the beginning—that the item Tami had me searching for was not in any of our attics. As I was getting ready to climb down, I thought of one other item I should get out. It was a luggage carrier that mounted to the top of our car, and it had been in the attic for 10 years. We no longer have the car and with an SUV we have no use for it. I began pulling and trying to work it through the rafters. Then it happened, something I’d never done before and hope to never do again: I pulled a muscle in my lower back, and it stopped me from doing anything else.
I’ve heard from people who’ve done this but never imagined that I would someday experience it myself. I guess I’ve entered a new phase of my life. Somebody needs to tell Tami so she’s easier on me. I climbed down the ladder, put the carrier away, went into the house, and sat in my chair. The more time passed, the stiffer my back grew, and I was soon walking around like an old man. I took pills, sat with a heating pad on my back, and even slept a few hours on the couch to get comfortable. It’s been four days, and every day it’s getting a little better, and I’ve learned that I will not do something like that again.
Going through that experience got me thinking about my spiritual life. Am I aware when I do something that brings harm to my relationship with Christ? Do I know what conviction is and understand that it’s there to help me stay healthy? When I do harm to my spiritual walk, do I take the proper steps to get back to the place I need to be with the Lord—like on my knees at an altar or in the Word? I may need to talk to a pastor or somebody I highly respect spiritually. My physical body will recover because I’m being careful and nursing it back to good health, but I need to make sure that I’m taking care of my spiritual wellness in the same way.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
The Joy of Volunteering
Both of my parents were active in ministry from the time I was born up until last year. They’ve done everything that can be done in a church and never questioned their involvement even though both had very active, busy lives. My dad served for several years as a deacon in the church. He ushered, served as a prayer partner, and taught Sunday school. Some of my most special memories of going to church as a boy involve sitting in my dad’s Sunday school class. He not only taught us the Bible, but he also made it exciting. Since my dad was a sports enthusiast, he always found a way to incorporate sports into our learning. There was Bible Baseball, probably my favorite, where you could earn a single, double, triple, or even a home run. Each question was more difficult the farther you wanted to get on the bases. That was my version of junior Bible quiz!
My mom was a Sunday school teacher, painted, cleaned, directed our nursery school (which had 200 students), coordinated church dinners, called people who needed special prayer, and probably did other things I can’t even remember. Despite raising five children and keeping up with all of our school and other non-church activities, my mom didn’t know what it was to say no if called to do something for the church.
As you can see, the church has always played an important part in my life. By the time I was able to drive, I was at the church whenever I had free time to volunteer for work projects that needed to be done. My senior year of high school, I was the children’s church pastor over a group of 100 boys and girls while the church’s children’s pastor led the older children in another room. I loved it and couldn’t wait to see those kids every Sunday. I’m saying all of this to hopefully encourage those of you not involved in a ministry to get involved. Find the joy of serving the church in a way that pours into your life!
My mom was a Sunday school teacher, painted, cleaned, directed our nursery school (which had 200 students), coordinated church dinners, called people who needed special prayer, and probably did other things I can’t even remember. Despite raising five children and keeping up with all of our school and other non-church activities, my mom didn’t know what it was to say no if called to do something for the church.
As you can see, the church has always played an important part in my life. By the time I was able to drive, I was at the church whenever I had free time to volunteer for work projects that needed to be done. My senior year of high school, I was the children’s church pastor over a group of 100 boys and girls while the church’s children’s pastor led the older children in another room. I loved it and couldn’t wait to see those kids every Sunday. I’m saying all of this to hopefully encourage those of you not involved in a ministry to get involved. Find the joy of serving the church in a way that pours into your life!
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Remembering The Past
This week I was reminded how quickly we can begin to forget things that happen in our past. There were a couple of instances when Tami and I had discussions and even serious debate over our conflicting memories.
Last Sunday, I shared a story from my childhood that I hadn’t thought about in years. It involved my older brother Steve and myself, and I don’t even know if he’d remember it because it wasn’t some life-changing event, but out of it came a memory that tied in perfectly with my message. On the way home that day Tami asked me why she had never heard that story before even though we’ve been together for over 35 years. I explained that the story had never crossed my mind until writing that sermon and being reminded, I believe by the Holy Spirit, of an event that could minister to somebody Sunday morning. If you want to know the story you’ll have to go to our church website and listen to the podcast.
Last Sunday, I shared a story from my childhood that I hadn’t thought about in years. It involved my older brother Steve and myself, and I don’t even know if he’d remember it because it wasn’t some life-changing event, but out of it came a memory that tied in perfectly with my message. On the way home that day Tami asked me why she had never heard that story before even though we’ve been together for over 35 years. I explained that the story had never crossed my mind until writing that sermon and being reminded, I believe by the Holy Spirit, of an event that could minister to somebody Sunday morning. If you want to know the story you’ll have to go to our church website and listen to the podcast.
Then, on Sunday evening, we were sitting in our home having a discussion about our dating years when another story came up. We had totally different stories about the same event and even called Tami’s mom to verify who was correct. Well, sorry to say, but my wonderful mother-in-law has a memory as good as her daughters: not good at all. I was telling them the story with specific facts and descriptions of the event and they still refused to believe me. We even asked some of our friends and I explained the whole event to them, and they assumed I was telling the truth because my story was so detailed. So, babe, I was right!
All of that to say this: our minds are amazing things. While we are going through events in life we can experience complete joy or peace, sorrow, pain, or whatever other feeling you can imagine, but as time goes on that event will begin to fade from memory. That is why we need to face each day as a new day and know that God has a plan for us each day we are here. Whatever you are going through today will change and even fade away at some point, but your faith in God should be that one constant that never changes. God will always love you, be there for you, and guide you through your life. As the years go by there will probably be more things that you forget about God’s faithfulness, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is you never forget that He is there for you!
All of that to say this: our minds are amazing things. While we are going through events in life we can experience complete joy or peace, sorrow, pain, or whatever other feeling you can imagine, but as time goes on that event will begin to fade from memory. That is why we need to face each day as a new day and know that God has a plan for us each day we are here. Whatever you are going through today will change and even fade away at some point, but your faith in God should be that one constant that never changes. God will always love you, be there for you, and guide you through your life. As the years go by there will probably be more things that you forget about God’s faithfulness, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is you never forget that He is there for you!
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
No Short Cuts To Spiritual Growth
Today I was reminded how important the past is to each of us. We live in a day and time when everything is done in a new and better way, and I won’t lie—I like it that way. To be able to heat up food in a matter of moments compared to several minutes, to be able to set up a Christmas tree in four sections with lights and decorations already attached compared to the old-fashioned way of picking out a tree, cutting it to fit a stand, and then decorating it. Or even making biscuits…dinner tonight reminded me that the old-fashioned way took several minutes, but tonight I just have to pop open a container and eight biscuits are ready to go into the oven.
As much as I enjoy the easy, convenient way of life that I have today, I have to remind myself that today’s method of making life easier can never apply to my spiritual life. Even though salvation is instantaneous, my spiritual development can only happen with a slow, steady understanding of what I must do to create the optimal situation for growth. What things do you need to integrate into your life to create the perfect scenario to grow spiritually? Don’t let yourself be deceived into thinking that you can’t grow because every one of us can!
As much as I enjoy the easy, convenient way of life that I have today, I have to remind myself that today’s method of making life easier can never apply to my spiritual life. Even though salvation is instantaneous, my spiritual development can only happen with a slow, steady understanding of what I must do to create the optimal situation for growth. What things do you need to integrate into your life to create the perfect scenario to grow spiritually? Don’t let yourself be deceived into thinking that you can’t grow because every one of us can!
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