Tag Archives: Jesus

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The Walking Dead

Several members of my family are fans of the television show, The Walking Dead.  Apparently we aren’t the only ones- with over 14.2 million people who view the apocalyptic series each week.

While the show involves zombies- viewers will tell you the plot centers around the “living”…human beings trying to survive and reestablish order.  The zombies are a dangerous backdrop. They have no independent thought…the zombies simply “exist.”

I sometimes feel like a zombie in terms of my faith.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.  The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.  2 Corinthians 5:17

I know what I need to do.  I need to be active in my faith…reading, meditating and studying God’s word.  I need to share the good news of Jesus with others.

But I often fall short.  I allow life’s events to distract me.  My days can become driven by work, family concerns and general busyness.  Before I know it- my Bible study and prayer time suffer.

I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot.  Would that you were either cold or hot!  So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.  Revelation 3:15-16

This verse always hurts my heart.  Jesus doesn’t want me to be lukewarm in my daily walk.  He demands action…heat…passion.

Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.  2 Timothy 1:13

My prayer this week is to keep my focus – and minimize distractions that keep me from living a full life in Jesus Christ.

Because a zombie-like walk through life leads to a dangerous path.

Please let me know how I may pray for you.  God bless.

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Fear

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“One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.” Henry Ford

My youngest son, Britton, faced his own fears this past month. It’s his first year of “big boy” football…full pads. 

His fifth grade group didn’t have enough players to make a team- so he was asked by his coach to join the seventh and eighth grade team. 

He worried about his ability to play with boys much bigger, stronger and faster…more experienced. But with the encouragement of his coach- he decided to try. 

It’s been four weeks and he’s loving it. His coach has eased him into the action and Britton is getting better with every practice. His confidence level has increased with every practice.

I can learn a lot from my 11 year old. 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us... Hebrews 12:1
We are called to cast aside all the obstacles that are keeping us from living lives of hope and honor. 

We need to run unincumbered toward Jesus. 

So, what’s holding you back?

Whatever it is…pride, envy, greed, addiction or fear…we need to pray for the strength-the endurance- to give it over to God. 

Please pray for me to face my own fears- fears that distract me from a closer walk with Jesus. 

And let me know how I may pray for you. 

God bless. 

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Inconsistency

arrowwood 2016It’s still hot as blazes outside, but football is in the air.  The boys are practicing with their team.  Our daughter is working with the pep club on Friday nights to foster school spirit at the high school games.

It’s our favorite time of the year.

I recently caught an NFL preview on ESPN.  One of the commentators was discussing Cam Newton, the uber-talented quarterback of the Carolina Panthers.  Cam can beat you with his arm.  He can beat you with his legs.  He can beat you with his mind.  He’s a prototype quarterback.

Almost.

They went on to say that the only thing that’s disappointing about Newton is his inconsistency.  You never know which Cam will show up…good Cam (who is very good) or bad Cam (which makes big mistakes).

Those comments hit me in the heart.

What about my own consistency?

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.  I Corinthians 15:58

What would Jesus say about my everyday effort?  Do I work hard to further develop spiritual gifts?

I’m afraid that the commentator could say the same about me.  I need to be more consistent in my own daily walk with Christ.

What should my goal be?

And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”  Luke 10:27

Like Newton, I need to hit the field with purpose.  Reading the Bible.  Meditating on the words.  Praying for guidance.  Putting it to practice.

Please pray for me to be more consistent with my faith…and let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless.

 

 

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21 years and still learning

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Hollianne and I are celebrating 21 years of marriage today. 

Things were much simpler back in that summer of 1995.  We had a one bedroom apartment, a used green Ford Mustang and a 19 inch television.  I was working my first job out of grad school at a private college in Marietta, Ohio.  Hollianne was student teaching at Washington Elementary school.  We could both walk to work.

I also remember us having lots of free time.  While we were both busy at work, the evenings were ours.  We would walk downtown for dinner and sit by the river for hours on end.  We drove through the Amish countryside on weekends in search of antiques we couldn’t afford.  And on weekends that Fall- we made the six hour drive from Marietta to Knoxville to cheer on our beloved Volunteers.

We had time.  We spent it with each other.  It was an early investment in our marriage.

Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.  Genesis 2:24

Life’s much more complicated now.  We’d added three active children.  Our jobs take us away from each other during the week, and the sports schedules of the kids cause us to split up each weekend.

We wouldn’t have it any other way…our family’s activities make for great memories.

He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.  Proverbs 18:22

While life events can complicate our marriages, it can also mature these relationships. If we’re lucky, we’ll notice when our relationships need adjustment or renewed focus. 

I love Hollianne even more today than I did way back in 1995. I’ve witnessed her give birth and raise our three children. I’ve watched her take care of parents and relatives during time of distress and need. I’ve seen her care for friends when crisis rocked their lives. 

And I’ve experienced her incredible grace over and over again. 

She’s my partner. My soulmate. My example. And my friend. 

Pray for me to be the husband that Hollianne needs. She deserves it. 

And let me know how to pray for you. 

God bless you. 

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When you don’t know what to do…

Our 11 year old son, Britton, came to me with a question tonight.

While the decision wasn’t too difficult to talk though, I could tell that the question had bothered him for quite some time.

But we discussed it for a couple of minutes, talked about his options- and he made a decision on how to move ahead.  B walked away happy and content.  I, too, was happy…happy that he came to me for advice- and happier that I helped ease his mind.

Who do you go to?

We all have similar situations, don’t we?  We are faced with difficult circumstances.  We are presented with tough questions and choices.  We struggle with potential consequences.

If you’re lucky, you’ve got people to ask for guidance.  Maybe it’s a relative or close family friend.  Perhaps it’s a teacher or mentor from your profession.

I have these people in my life, yet pride often won’t let me admit that I just don’t have the answer.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.  James 1:5

I often wrestle with choices.  I struggle with trying to do the “right” thing that’s best for everyone involved.  And when I do this- I often forget that I have a loving, all-knowing God that wants to help.

Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.  2 Timothy 2:7

Understanding.  In everything.

My prayer this week is to seek God’s advice more frequently.  I want to present my mouth to God’s ear when I struggle with obstacles and challenges.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  Proverbs 3:5

And let me know how to pray for you.

God bless.

 

 

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Future

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I often find myself thinking in “fast-forward.”  That scares me.

With three young children and busy jobs, Hollianne and I are constantly trying to make decisions on the fly. Decisions that impact the future for our kids, household and careers.

We wonder if our choices are the right ones.

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5

This verse from the book of Jeremiah gives me comfort, however.

While I tend to worry about decisions- I need to remember that God already has a plan.

He has a plan for me. He has a plan for Hollianne. He has a plan for each of you. All of us are “consecrated” – or set apart for service.

Instead of worry, I need to pray for wisdom and guidance- and trust in the Lord for support along the way.

My prayer for today is to have the faith and assurance to let go of the worry focused on the future…and to trust in the Lord.

What causes you to worry about the future?  Whatever it is, give it to God.

Let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless you.

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Award winners

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Last night I attended the awards dinner for the Tennessee Press Association.  The majority of Tennessee’s leaders from the news industry were present…from Memphis to Mountain City.

We celebrated excellence in media across Tennessee.  I presented awards for captivating photos, insightful editorials and quality writing.  It was a fun night.

What impressed me the most were the photos, articles and pieces that DIDN’T win.  It’s obvious that we have some talented media professionals in state- and unfortunately only the best of the best could be recognized as a “winner.”

Everyone enjoys being recognized for their work.  A life with Jesus gives us that opportunity.

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.  Colossians 3:23-24

You might teach, you might build, you might work in a service industry…but whatever our vocation- we are commanded to do our best.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.  Hebrews 11:6

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.  Galatians 6:9

The world may never recognize our service, but Jesus grants us an “inheritance as your reward.”  And that, my friends, is the ultimate prize.

Thank God.

Please pray for me to do my best for my workplace and my family everyday.  And let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tough love


It’s been a mixed bag of experiences for our family this week.  

On one hand- we’ve been on vacation. It’s been a great trip for us, as my recent work schedule and the kids’ activities have propelled our family in opposite directions.  We’ve had an incredible opportunity to spend lots of time together- making new memories and laughing about old ones. 

Conversely- our trip has come during a time of great sadness across our country. This week’s headlines have been filled with violence and sorrow. Innocent lives have been lost and nerves are frayed. 

It’s hard for me to understand. I can’t imagine how hard it is for my children to process.

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭4:11‬ ‭

I guess the best response as parents is to continue to teach love. 

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John‬ ‭15:12‬ ‭

Love is the greatest command. Along with this command comes honor and respect for others. 

“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”‭‭ Romans‬ ‭12:10‬ ‭

“Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another,…” ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4:9‬ ‭

So who is our brother?  It’s our neighbor. It’s the person living in a different neighborhood across town. It’s the teller in the supermarket line. It’s the person that doesn’t dress like us or talk like we do. It’s the people in our lives that have hurt us and caused us pain. 

Our neighbors are everywhere. 

Everyone has value. Every person has worth. And just as Jesus loves us, we are called to love others. 

It’s hard sometimes, but it’s our responsibility. And it’s our responsibility to teach love and honor to our children. 

“And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭3:23‬ ‭‬‬

Let’s look for ways this week to get to know our neighbors…and engage with different people in new and meaningful ways. 

I need prayers for guidance on how to help my children process these tough events. Please let me know how I may pray for you. 

God bless. 

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When you don’t have a prayer

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I’ve been struggling with my prayer life.

I think it’s fatigue.  Maybe it’s my schedule at work.  Perhaps it’s life events surrounding my friends and family that have brought me down.

Regardless, prayer hasn’t come easy lately.

I was reading C.S. Lewis this morning.  There’s a section from Mere Christianity that reads:

“An ordinary simple Christian kneels down to say his prayers.  He is trying to get into touch with God.  But if he is a Christian he knows that what is prompting him to pray is also God:  God, so to speak, inside him.  But he also knows that all his real knowledge of God comes through Christ, the Man who was God- that Christ is standing beside him, helping him to pray, praying for him.”

I’ve made prayer too hard.

I’ve been thinking that I have to be perfect in prayer.  I’ve pressed to think that God needs my heart and mind clear.

But the truth is- God already knows what I need.  He already knows my confusion and pain.

Like Lewis writes, it’s God that’s prompting me to hit my knees and pray.  He wants me humble and repentant.  He wants my effort- even if I don’t know exactly what to say.

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.  Romans 8:26

Let’s don’t wait until we’re “ready.”  God is there to receive our prayers…we just need to engage.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  Philippians 4:6

Please pray for my prayer life.  And let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless.

 

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Homeless outside Starbucks

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I’d seen him eating breakfast at Starbucks several times over the past couple of months.

I stop in for coffee each Saturday morning.  He is always sitting in the same corner nursing a cup of coffee and a muffin.

We spoke last Saturday morning- both acknowledging that we had noticed one another with each visit.

His name is John.

He’s my father’s age.  John has a big smile, a hearty laugh and an engaging disposition.

And he’s homeless.

We talked at length last Saturday.  He confessed that he’s been living in his car since 2011.

A series of life events have led him to this situation.  He makes enough money through his social security checks to pay for a membership to the YMCA (for showering) and to keep a Post Office box for mail.  He budgets the remainder of his income to pay for gas, toiletries, washing clothes and meager meals.

His splurge each week is a hot cup of coffee and breakfast muffin at Starbucks.

John has simply fallen through the cracks.  He’s not completely on the street, but he’s awfully close.  He’d love to have a regular job, but his age and health have made employment difficult to find.

Despite all of this, John has a positive outlook.

And my God will supply every need of your according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:19

He has a vibrant faith.  He has hope for a home in Heaven.  He is optimistic for his future.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  Proverbs 3:5

Pray for John to stay strong and to be safe.  Pray for those trying to help him get back on his feet.

And let me know how I may pray for you.  God bless.

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