Tag Archives: God

God's love, Jesus, love, relationships

Finding Purpose Behind Bars

You can learn a lot if you are open to listening.

We visited the Louisiana State Penitentiary yesterday at Angola. Angola is the largest maximum-security prison in the United States, with over 5,000 inmates. The overwhelming majority of the inmates are serving life sentences, with a large number of its population on death row.

It was a sobering tour.

Angola is also known for its innovative programs for the incarcerated. One of them is called P.A.W.S. (Prisoners Assisting Warriors Service), which uses the inmates to train service dogs for military veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. These volunteers work with canines for 14-18 months to learn basic commands, provide mobility assistance and detect stress triggers in their eventual veteran owners.

The two men who presented to our group were serving life sentences. One had been convicted of a crime at age 17. They were polished, poised and passionate about their work. In addition to their work with this non-profit, they had both obtained degrees in Divinity and expressed their desire to continue to give back.

They had joy in their hearts and purpose for their lives.

O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption. Psalm 130:7

I often pray that the Lord will bring someone in my path that needs forgiveness, mercy and love. But yesterday- the Lord brought me into the presence of two men who could provide an example of brokenness, forgiveness and redemption.

These men had experienced the worst that this world has to offer. But despite their mistakes and crime, they have joyfully committed to spend the remainder of their days improving the lives of others. They have a clean conscience and an excitement of what comes eternally with a life in Jesus.

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14

My prayer this week is to be less bound to my thoughts about “where I am” and instead focus on “what I can be.” Despite any current distractions, obstacles and challenges… I can do more. Serve more. Love more. I just need to get out of my own way.

And please let me know how to pray for you.

If you are so moved, you can contribute to this important ministry at the following address:

P.A.W.S. Program, Louisiana State Penitentiary, 17544 Tunica Trace, Angola, LA 70712

Jesus loves you and so do I.

Standard
God's love, Jesus, relationships, Uncategorized

Living in the Present

I’m at a large, state-wide conference this week. At a dinner last night, we honored 5 individuals who have made a significant impact on our organization and the agricultural industry. It was awesome to hear their accomplishments and see their life’s impact.

As I was walking back to my room, I overheard two conference attendees talking about the awards. One asked the other: “How do you want to be remembered?”

The other responded: “I’m not so concerned with how I’ll be remembered. I’m more concerned with the example I’m showing while living.”

Wow!

We often talk about legacy… what we’ll leave behind and how we’ll be remembered.

But we need to remember that the best way to leave a lasting legacy is to focus on the now!


In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:6

My prayer today will be to seize each and every moment to love, praise and serve. And to do it without limits.

Please let me know how to pray for you. God bless!

Standard
Uncategorized

Lessons about living from the dying

My dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer on April 6 of this year. He died just 10 days later. In between those two events was a series of lessons I learned from my father that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

As we drove home from the hospital to begin hospice care at his cabin, dad told me that there were some people he wanted to call. Many of the names I knew, but others I didn’t. It was clear that he wanted to spend his last few days reconnecting with others.

And then he got on the phone. He called former students and fellow coaches. He called neighbors. Dad called people he hadn’t seen in fifty years.

His phone calls consisted of four key types of conversations.

-He told people he loved them.

-He granted forgiveness.

-He asked for forgiveness.

-He told them “thank you.”

Four simple messages he repeated over and over for 10 straight days. These messages brought tears, laughter, relief and goodwill. It brought people together.

My dad left this earth with a full heart and a clear conscience. And what a gift he left to those he encountered over his last 10 days.

I’ve thought about what I witnessed over the past couple of months. It’s shown me the importance of loving, forgiving, repentance and gratitude. And it’s something that we need to do often and intentionally.

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

What if every day we pledged to try and love the person right in front of us? What if we showed grace, patience and love to all that we met?

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

My prayer this week is for awareness. I want to express more love. I want to grant more grace. I want the humility to ask for forgiveness more often. And I should seek more opportunities to express gratitude. My dad did a lot of this over 10 days, and I want to use that example to maximize the relationships in my life.

And please let me know how to pray for you. God bless!

Standard
relationships

Attitude is everything

I was traveling early this morning on my way to a conference. As I prepared to land in Atlanta for my connecting flight, I realized that I had just enough time to grab a quick breakfast sandwich and coffee.

Everyone else had the same idea.

The line for the only open coffee shop was long and the customers were cranky and irritated. To top it all off, there were only two available employees working that shift. They were also out of about half of their menu due to supply chain issues.

But I noticed something as I waited in line. The woman who was working the cash register remained extremely positive. She greeted each customer with a smile and a heart-felt “good morning.” She repeated what items were available and apologized for the inconvenience and long wait. It was refreshing. No matter the temperament of the current customer- she stayed calm and pleasant.

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

I was incredibly impressed with this cashier. Despite the circumstances and environment, she was encouraging and kind. It was an example that several customers commented on when they approached her at the register.

It’s an example of how my attitude can be an example…either for good or bad. If we have the love of Jesus in our heart, we need to SHOW it. Let’s commit to being that person who is full of hope and love.

We’ll never know what impact it’ll have on someone else.

My prayer this week is to be more intentional about being positive. And please let me know how I can pray for you.

God bless you.

Standard
Uncategorized

Keep Punching

We can learn a lot from adversity.

Jimmy Braddock was born into a poor family of Irish immigrants in 1905. His parents were hard-working and did all they could to support their seven children in the tough neighborhood of Hells Kitchen in New York City.

Jimmy dreamed of going to Notre Dame and playing for legendary coach Knute Rockne. But college wasn’t financially attainable and Jimmy went to work. He discovered that he had a gift for boxing, and after a series of successful amateur fights he turned pro at the age of 21.

He was known for his toughness and had a tremendously strong right hand. After three years, Jimmy had compiled an impressive 44-2-2 record. He was eventually given a fight against the heavyweight champion, Tommy Loughran in 1929. His successful career took a bad turn that night, as he not only lost his shot at the title, but he also damaged his prized right hand.

He went on to fight 33 more times after breaking his hand, but never returned to his prior glory- going 11-20-2 in that span.

Jimmy eventually found himself a forgotten, broken boxer. To make matters worse, the events surrounding the Great Depression created an unstable time for Jimmy and his family. He was unable to box. He was unable to find steady work. He had lost everything.

But something happened over the next several years. He had to walk many miles a day to the New York City docks to look for daily work. The manual labor he participated in each day not only strengthened and healed his right hand, but it made Jimmy’s left hand even stronger than his right. Jimmy’s health had improved, as had his resolve to better provide for his family.

He got the chance to fight professionally again- and he jumped at it. Jimmy was first regarded as simply a journeyman fighter…and easy victory for other young boxers. But Jimmy won his early fights. And eventually garnered enough attention that he was given another shot at the title in 1935. Fighting a much younger and much stronger champion, Jimmy overcame all odds and defeated Max Baer to become the heavyweight champion of the world!

What can we learn from Braddock’s story?

Life is all about valleys and peaks: Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

Think about the obstacles that Braddock overcame. He was born poor, rose to become a successful fighter, lost everything and then fought back to reclaim his career and life. But he learned from each and every lesson in life. We can too. Our trials teach us steadfastness and perseverance so that we may become complete. What are you learning during periods of adversity?

When you don’t know what to do, do what’s right in front of you: Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. Proverbs 16:3

When uncertainty and doubt hit Braddock’s life, he did what came naturally. He knew he had to take care of his family, so he went to work. He did what was right in front of him…a singular focus on survival. We can have similar focus in our lives too. If we turn our eyes to Jesus and make Him our first priority, all our other plans will become clear. What can we do? Read the Bible. Study and reflect on the lessons. Worship and serve others. Pray diligently.

Learn and practice gratitude: Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38

Braddock never forgot all the help he was given while he was a child and again as an adult when he lost everything. He repaid all the government assistance he and his family were given during the Great Depression. He joined the Army in WWII and trained soldiers in hand to hand combat. He later opened a construction business and provided many with an opportunity to make a good living. Braddock was grateful for what he had received. We should be too. Let’s have that giving spirit that comes from a relationship with Jesus. Let’s be thankful and give without hesitation to others.

My prayer this week is to look at obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow. Please let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless. And keep punching.

Standard
Uncategorized

Love Your Neighbor

I was driving to work earlier this week and witnessed a man cross his yard and pick up a poorly-thrown newspaper from his elderly neighbor’s yard…and go place it on her porch.

A simple, meaningful gesture.

A recent survey suggested that 55% of Americans are feeling more stressed than they were just a few months ago.

There are disagreements about the coronavirus and reopening our country. We are having tough conversations about race and justice. People are experiencing financial strain and social isolation.

There’s a lot to process. And it’s hard to know what to do.

A mentor once told me that when the world is chaotic and unclear, the best thing we can do is focus on what’s immediately in front of us…and act.

And what’s directly in front of me everyday? People.

My neighbors.

Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. Romans 13:9

During times of great societal stress and strain, we can all do something to help our neighbors.  It’s truly simple…get out of “self” and into a “serve” mentality. Service doesn’t have to be a significant, public event. It can be as easy as paying someone’s electric bill. Or calling to check on the sick or homebound.

Or standing up for someone who desperately needs it. Your family. Co-workers. The child next door. 

If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. Romans 15:2

Love your neighbor as yourself. And where are our neighbors? They are right in front of us.

My prayer this week is to have the awareness to recognize ways to serve my neighbors…and the courage to act.

And please let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless you!

 

Standard
Uncategorized

Life as a Rodeo

I’ve read where life is 10% about what happens to you…and 90% about how you respond. I think that’s right.

And in many areas, you see that determination illustrated well in the sport of rodeo. You never know what horse or bull you’ll draw, but success depends on how you react and respond.

That’s magnified this week in Martin, Tennessee…where the university hosts an annual collegiate rodeo. This event draws thousands of participants to our community to watch athletes compete at the highest level. The students show grit, bravery and determination…the product of years of training and practice.

But this year is different. COVID-19 has cancelled this event.

It’s cancelled events all over the world. Sports. Concerts. Church services. 

It’s hurt business. And people. We feel powerless and afraid. 

We’ve drawn an enemy that we don’t quite know how to fight.

Adversity can create opportunity, however.

I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philipians 4: 12-13

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

I don’t know what lessons we will learn from this experience, but we will be stronger. It may be six months or six years from now…but every obstacle provides an opportunity to respond.  And we must react from a position of faith.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

My prayer this week will be just as it was last week: development of a vaccine for the coronavirus and healing and recovery for all the people, businesses and organizations struggling in its wake.  And I pray that our response to adversity will be from a position of faith and resolve.

Please let me know how I may specifically pray for you.

God bless. 

 

 

Standard
Uncategorized

Wounded

I’ve been acutely focused on wounds these past few months.

My dad has struggled with diabetes for many years, but recently it’s gotten progressively worse. Recent surgeries have caused both physical pain and emotional hardship.

There are lots of unknowns related to his future. And the uncertainly can take you to dark places.

The New York Times recently reported that from 2016 to 2017, the proportion of adults who described themselves as more anxious than the previous year was 36 percent. In 2017, more than 17 million American adults had at least one major depressive episode, as did three million adolescents ages 12 to 17. Forty million adults now suffer from an anxiety disorder — nearly 20 percent of the adult population. 

These are the known cases of depression. The actual numbers must be astronomical.

Wounds have always existed. There are many examples in the Bible:

  • The woman caught in adultery (John 8: 1-11)
  • Struggles with family, like the prodigal son (Luke 15: 11-18)
  • Persecution because of following Jesus (2 Corinthians 11: 23-28)

 

We hurt in many ways. Wounds of regret of past sins. Wounds of illness and sickness. Wounds of broken relationships (perhaps the toughest of all…)

Fortunately, we have a Savior that has borne wounds for us.

For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.  2 Peter 2: 21-24

By His wounds we have been healed.

How do we begin to heal? I suggest three ways:

  1. Learn from the past. An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. Proverbs 18:15. We must learn from our mistakes and acknowledge our forgiveness. (“I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins. Isaiah 43:45). We must also seek forgiveness from others when necessary.
  1. Focus on the present. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2
  1. Realize the potential of the future. Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment but has passed from death to life. John 5:24. Finally, remember that suffering always precedes glory, as the Savior said of his own wounding (Luke 24:26).

 

I don’t know what you are struggling with today, but I do know that there is relief. My prayer focus this week will be for the millions of unknown issues across our world that are creating wounds.

And if I can pray for you specifically and confidentially, please let me know.

God bless you.

 

Standard
Uncategorized

Pause

We’ve entered the busiest time of the year.

End of year deadlines at work. Holiday travel. Last-minute shopping. Receptions, events and special holiday programs.

It’s also a stressful time. A recent study suggests that 62% of people report elevated stress levels during the holidays. The main culprits? Family and financial pressures.

And during this time, we can also squeeze out time with Jesus. Yep. I’m guilty too.

I suggest that we all need a pause.

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Take your cares to Jesus…and He will give you relief and rest.

Pause for five minutes today. Intentionally take time to pray. Focus completely on your blessings and needs. Offer up your hopes, desires and fears. Jesus craves this time with us.

And He will provide relief.

My prayer this week is to pause each day and spend more time with our Lord and Savior.

And please let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless.

Standard
Uncategorized

Skipping Thanksgiving

We’re skipping Thanksgiving this year.

The stores in my hometown are already filled with Christmas decorations. Holiday wreaths adorn neighborhoods mailboxes and doors. Social media is filled with photos of friends displaying their Christmas trees. Holiday music is on the radio.

I’m not sure why. Thanksgiving is an important season of reflection and gratitude. A time to pause with family and friends. A time to count our blessings.

But we’re barreling right past it toward Christmas. A missed opportunity to celebrate all that we are thankful for in our lives.

It’s not surprising, actually.

How often do I stop during the day to reflect on the blessings in my life?

Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 106:1

God has richly blessed me with a great family, incredible friends, my health and a job that I love. I’m so blessed.

Yet I don’t pause and say “thanks” nearly enough.

I skip thanksgiving every day, if I’m not careful.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17

My prayer this week is to pause more often…to stop and thank God for the blessings in my life. My family. My health. My friends.

And especially, Jesus Christ.

I don’t want to skip thanksgiving ever again.

And please let me know how to pray for you.

God bless you.

Standard