Life Goes On

As we approach the 4th of July weekend most folks are looking forward to a day off, grilling at the beach or in the back yard, hanging with friends and family at the lake, and fireworks. In the midst of it all, the grey-heads will march in parades, hold special meetings at the flag pole, and generally, uphold the reason for the holiday...the celebration of our independence. I wonder just how much longer we will be able to hold on to the relevance of the day. It seems that with the revisionists changing much of our history, and schools doing away with the pledge of allegiance, and families giving little or no thought to why we're celebrating and not passing the legacy on to their kids, it won't be long until it becomes a meaningless day. Do you believe strongly enough in the history of our nation to take the time to read, study and pass along the history behind the holiday? Does it cross your mind that your children and grandchildren are growing up without a clue? I'm ...

Today my wife and I wind up a reunion trip. We've had the opportunity over the past few days to re-connect with people who were in our Youth Group almost forty years ago. This has reminded me that I am a rich man. I am rich because God has enabled me to build relationships with many people through the years. I know that there are people scattered across the globe who I count as friends, and on whom I could call in time of need. What more could anyone want? Now I look for opportunities to build new relationships; to meet and learn about new people and to seek to share my life with them. Relationships among believers will last forever. I think of those who have already preceded me in going to their reward, and I look forward to re-connecting with them one day in Glory. Thank You, Lord for friends. Thank You for being my friend that sticks closer than a brother.

I get a little amused when watching the news, that everyone seems so caught up in the "breaking news", or "this just in to our news desk" announcements. Even believers seem to be wondering what in the world is going on. The truth of the matter is that what we call "news" God has know about forever. In many instances He has even tried to get our attention BEFORE the "news" broke so that we would be ready. Even the Apostle Paul reminds us in several places in his writings that we should not be "caught unaware". What is going on is that God is trying to get the attention of His people and warn them that "we ain't seen nothing yet". It is only going to get worse until (or unless) we start paying attention to such admonitions as 2 Chronicles 7:14) The little word "if" is powerful. "If" we, the people of God, don't humble ourselves and pray and repent (turn from our wicked ways) and seek God's ...

Just 10 1/2 years ago my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. The trepidation that descended on our lives was palpable. Suddenly every day was overshadowed by both the treatments, the "what-if's" as we walked on, what for us, was a new path. At the last "Walk for the Cure" in our town, we celebrated with other survivors with a victory lap. Now it has started over again, this time with our oldest daughter, Kendra. The realization that Rae has beaten this disease for 10 1/2 years gives us hope. But, at the same time there is dread as Kendra embarks on her treatment. Each day is a gift; every tomorrow is truly in doubt. I've asked God to let me bear the cancer in my own body. After all, I've already lived a long, full life. Kendra has "miles to go" with her four children, ages 5-10. My understanding of true intercession is that the intercessor must be willing to bear the burden of the one for whom they are praying. I'm willing! So, ...