Are You God's Foot Soldier?

 In a recent sermon, I preached on the subject of what I call, the Jericho Principles. According to scripture, Joshua, at the battle of Jericho, had a plan. That plan was given by God. God expected the plan to be carried out to the letter and it was the 'foot soldiers' that would accomplish it's implementation. With that being done successfully, God would deliver the victory! We need to realize that all Christians are God's foot soldiers. He has given us a plan and objective for our lives and for the the effective propagation of the Gospel message. It is essential that His plan for creation and it's salvation be carried out and, with that done, God will deliver the Victory. Do you see yourself as God's 'foot soldier'? I pray that you do.

GRACE

If in me a light does shine,
Tis' because the Lord is mine.
Saved and sanctified within,

Serve humbly, now for Him.

I cannot claim His bloodstained robe,
except by grace on me bestowed.
My life falls short of all I owe,
I've surely missed the mark.

Sin takes it's toll for I have seen,
in me dark shadows stand between,
my God, my Lord and all that's clean,
Save grace that's made me whole.

Tis' grace that comes to those who seek,
the freedom of new life 's mystique.
The knowledge of the truth, the One,
Discovered through the Son.

Amazing grace, so undeserved,
Yet Jesus life and death reserved.
For us new life He has secured,
With Him we'll dwell through time!

And now for you, the Lord awaits,
your sin and sins He will replace,
With grace that others have embraced,
Now yours forevermore.

The everlasting crown now yours,
protects, preserves, makes heaven yours.
Ensures your presence on the shores,
With Jesus their to dwell.

Gary Laws

A New and Welomed Challenge

The Church experience is many things to many people. For Pastors it is, of course, unique. For the better part of the last 32 years, Church has not only been an experience, it has been a ecclesiastical responsibility. Through the week it involved sermon study and research along with much prayerful consideration. When other tasks would impose themselves there was the occasional 'Saturday Night Special'! Then there was planning the service, choosing the music and other elements of the the worship service.

When Sunday morning would arrive it meant picking people up who did not have transportation, greeting the faithful, always with an upbeat demeanor even when the spirit was down and the body was tired. Always feeling the need to 'perform' so as to make certain all were happy and had a meaningful time.

Since entering retirement and bidding farewell to those daily and weekly responsibilities, Church has taken on a new form and meaning. A new challe

nge, if you will. Now I am learning to be content sitting in the congregation, listening to the sermons of others and often critiquing them as the words are offered.

Mostly, it is now an experience within which I must learn, once again, how to worship! Now, you may think this sounds strange coming from a former cleric, yet it is a very real challenge.

Now I must prepare for the Sunday Worship experience in a much different way. I am free to concentrate the whole of my time on preparing MY heart and MY mind for this new role.

How nice it is to blend in. No more superiors to please. No more performance standards to meet, except as it regards the performance of my heart and mind. Only occasional sermons to prepare, as I have opportunity.

Now I have the time to concentrate the whole of my being on heart readiness and spirit submission to the One who has provided, and continues to provide, the needs of my soul! GDL

A God We Can Have a Beer With???

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At this stage of life, I have no interest in a 'touchy, feely' worship experience. I do have an interest in learning that which will draw me further into the presence of God. I am suspicious of those who rock back and forth, waving their hands in the air while projecting what appears to be a very emotional, if not painful, expression on their face.
It all seems very superficial to me. Almost as if it is a 'learned behavior' not unlike speaking in tongues!

Now, please don't misunderstand. I realize that everyone has there own way to approach our most holy God and I am not suggesting that these good folks are not being genuine....but I must confess that I do wonder!

Contemporary Worship seems to have evolved into a very casual, buddy, buddy sort of view toward Jesus, the Christ. The words of today's music seem to have more to do with an eros love experience than an agape love. Read the words and think about it. The music that we hear today is not unlike the great love songs of the 50's being sung to ones lover....that is 'eros' in nature. Agape love is quite different isn't it.

Now, I am not painting with a broad stroke here and I am not condemning what is meaningful to others. I simply mean to say that God is who He is. Creator of the universe, the all powerful, all knowing, omni present Jehovah and I am interested only in approaching His throne with the utmost humility, respect, admiration and adoration. I want to know Him and be known by Him. For me, this is a very serious pursuit that ought not to be given to superficiality or trivial notions of a God 'that we can all go out and have a beer with'!

He is the greatest of the great, the King of all Kingdoms, the most powerful and most loving force in the universe. When I think of approaching His awesomeness I cannot conceive of doing it in any other way... than in silence!

All hail the power of Jesus’ Name! Let angels prostrate fall;

Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all.
Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all.

Let highborn seraphs tune the lyre, and as they tune it, fall
Before His face Who tunes their choir, and crown Him Lord of all.
Before His face Who tunes their choir, and crown Him Lord of all.

Crown Him, ye morning stars of light, who fixed this floating ball;
Now hail the strength of Israel’s might, and crown Him Lord of all.
Now hail the strength of Israel’s might, and crown Him Lord of all.

Crown Him, ye martyrs of your God, who from His altar call;
Extol the Stem of Jesse’s Rod, and crown Him Lord of all.
Extol the Stem of Jesse’s Rod, and crown Him Lord of all.

Ye seed of Israel’s chosen race, ye ransomed from the fall,

Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all.
Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all.

Hail Him, ye heirs of David’s line, whom David Lord did call,
The God incarnate, Man divine, and crown Him Lord of all,
The God incarnate, Man divine, and crown Him Lord of all.

Sinners, whose love can ne’er forget the wormwood and the gall,
Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all.
Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all.

Let every tribe and every tongue before Him prostrate fall
And shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all.
And shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all.

 Ed­ward Per­ro­net

On the Wrong Track?

Throughout life's journey, we occasionally run into people who think of themselves as having arrived at a higher 'station' in life than those of us who live out simple, but meaningful, lives. They think they have been travelling on a more desirable and successful track than the rest of us. You know who they are. The ones who surround themselves with all the 'stuff' of life. When I have such an encounter, I chuckle as I realize... many of them have no idea they have been on the wrong track and got off at the wrong station!

Simple Servants!

I have come to learn that the most effective servants of God are those without academic degrees or great gifts of oratory. They are those simple servants who have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit, anointed of God and motivated solely by a love for the souls of mankind. Most often they are not in the pulpit, not on the TV, radio or internet. They are living and serving among those most in need of God's love and redemption, never calling attention to themselves but always pointing to the Christ who can save us. GDL

Today's Church

I am becoming of the opinion that much of the organized church has become irrelevant as it pursues superficial 'feel good' doctrines and practices. Real substance is lacking as is the courage to stick to sound biblical teaching. Today's church seems more responsive to the views of society than the spiritual needs of people.

Marriage

What does the Bible say about marriage being exclusively between a man and a woman?

Genesis 2:22-24
Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman, ' for she was taken out of man." For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be uni

ted to his wife, and they will become one flesh."

Matthew 19:4-6
"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh' ? So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

Mark 10:6-9
"But at the beginning of creation God 'made them male and female.' 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

Being a True Valentine!

Well, Valentines Day has past and you have provided your spouse or sweetheart a gift, dinner and a smile. How nice! Consider how wholly inadequate these things actually are in the context of a life long partnership. The true Valentine is given every day of the year. It recognizes who your loved one is and it helps them become all that they can be. The true Valentine is filled with love and appreciation twelve months a year. Value the one God has given you, even more than yourself, as you may not always have them near.

So, You are On the Fast Track?

Those who see themselves as on the 'fast track' to success are rarely content as there is always the next plateau not yet achieved. Learn to be content right where you are, as God may leave you there until you get your priorities in order! (GLaws)

Stop, Look and Listen!

So, you have been spending your life pleasing others! Your congregants, your not-so-superior superiors, your family and your friends...seeking approval and validation. What a shallow and superficial life you have been leading! Have you not discovered that being what others want you to be is not 'being' at all?

To be free from these motivations brings real life to those who have the courage to brea

k free from such narcissistic behaviors. Resolve, today, to sit quietly in the presence of God and pray through to the discovery of who you really are and who you should really be pleasing. It will slow you down and lift you up. It will free your imagination and help you see what is of real importance in life. It will empower you to do what God really wants you to do, notwithstanding the presence of others whom you thought were so important! 

Whatever track you are 'barreling' down, it may be wise to Stop, Look, and Listen! Cease the meaningless forced smiles, the gratuitous pats on the back (learned behaviors), the never ending pursuit of attention and Look for the 'Peace in Service' that can be yours. Mostly, Listen to God's Holy Spirit who will make you the genuine article! Believe me, others will take notice when you have accomplished this and they will see you in a new, more favorable light. (GLaws)

A Personal Inventory

I think we must stop and take something of a personal inventory on what our lives really look like, what we are doing with them and where we are really going. Many people live life as if there is no tomorrow. Of course there may not be! They are true 'reactionaries', reacting to the circumstances of the day rather than creating those circumstances.

I think this underscores the importance of getti

ng serious about life! We must get a hold of ourselves, get a plan, work that plan out over the long term, and realize that simply reacting to what is thrown your way is not good enough.

Do you know what God wants you to do? If so, then stop dillydallying and do it! All other intentions are a waste of precious time!

Ten Things I Want to Accomplish Today

Ten things I want to do with the rest of my life!

1. Wake up, each day, with a smile and something to look forward to.
2. Retire, each night, with a grateful heart.
3. Make someone else feel better about themselves.
4. Accomplish something that will improve the quality of our lives.
5. Discover new ways to communicate my faith.
6. Spend time in the presence of my Creator.
7. Contrib

ute to the welfare and security of another.
8. Spend significant time with family and friends.
9. Learn something new each day.
10. Get as close to God as I possibly can.

Blessings! GDL

They Shall See Me!

Well we have now prepared for this day. Putting on our finest clothes, cleaned pressed and ready to impress. The woman, hair done, every strand in place. Make up just perfect. Extra hairspray and eyebrow liner, just in case.

Men groomed and ready to parade. Many folks to see and be seen by. Been so busy, am at a loss to why. O, yes, now it comes to me, time for church, not English Tea!

How excit

ed we are, for the time has finally come; we'll be noticed, admired, even sought out. Strategically placed Bible in hand, with its not so worn pages and somehow I know that my spirit engages all those elements that will make me feel good. Now that all have seen me, my aura outstanding, I know I've succeeded at personal branding.

Then at home, upon my return, I shall reflect on how good it was for those who had the chance to see me once again!

" O, God, forgive me for my vanity and superficiality. Help me to understand the true nature of worship's grandeur. Help me also to see the wretch that I really am. Bless me today in spite of myself and help me to remember that it was you who gloriously rode into the Holy City and that it was not me the crowds were cheering!" GDL

An Unholy Emphasis

I believe that the over 50 generation has been cast aside and relegated to the trash heap as it regards the ministry of many churches today. There is an unholy emphasis being placed upon the 'cult of youth', while youthful, arrogant and self serving church leaders seek to build entertainment palaces and other monuments to their leadership. Church platforms are filled with 'performers' while the Mercy Seat has become a mere decoration in our sanctuary, if it is there at all!

The church must seek to serve all who enter through it's doors. Somehow it must regain a spirit of humility in it's service, and turn the focus back on Jesus, the Christ!

Make Someone Happy!

One of the great joys in my wife's life is being paid attention to. She lives life at a very basic level since her strokes, but O how she enjoys it when people engage her and acknowledge her presence in a way that makes her feel happy! She smiles and laughs, much like a youngster does, and you can sense that her spirits have been lifted.

Actually, I think that is true of most people isn't it? Make someone happy today and pay attention to them. You will make them happy, and when you hear them laugh, you will also be filled with great joy! GDL

How Much Time Do We Give to Prayer?

Do you know someone who is ill and experiencing great physical and/or emotional difficulty? I am distressed over the numbers of friends I have who are having such a rough way to go. I always take a moment most days to pray for them but I am wondering if this is enough. 

Perhaps I (we) need to be setting aside a significant block of time to pray for our friends and relatives....something more than

 a brief prayer of petition. Maybe an hour, maybe more. I know, it seems like a long time to block everything else in life out and focus on one thing for such an extended period of time.

But is this too long, really? I don't think so. Our family and friends need to be lifted up and lifted up regularly with a real commitment to extended prayer.

God is waiting to hear from us!

A Standard of Behavior!

If being a Christian only required asking for forgiveness to get to heaven, everyone would want to be a Christian. The problem people have with Christianity is that it, also, requires adherence to a standard of behavior which, in turn, requires a turning away from the desires of this world and the flesh!

Just Be There!

Just be there! I remember some years ago, my secretary, Glenda, took a personal interest in a man who, year round, slept in his car across from the Corps on a vacant lot. When the police towed his unregistered car away, he slept under a tree by night and sat on the curb outside my office by day. He did not ask for anything from us, only occasionally eating in our soup kitchen. One day Glenda took 

charge, talked frequently with him and finally convinced him to let her help by getting him an apartment to live in. After much back and forth the man finally agreed and, thanks to Glenda, moved in to his own small apartment. It was there that he would spend the last few months of his life. Off the streets, in relative comfort knowing that someone cared about him. There is much more to the story but let it suffice to say that the work, love and concern of this one Salvation Army lady brought a good deal of peace and comfort to a gentleman in his last days.

As you consider what you might do to help another, just be there...identify and then meet the need. God will bless you for it!

Looking for a Church?

So, you are young, have a family and are looking for a church. You want one with youth groups, men's club, ladies circle, exciting sermons and meaningful music. In other words, you are looking for a 'turn key' church.

But what of those churches which are small and not quite ready for prime time! Imagine how exciting it could be to be a part of 'building a church'! Your presence, and that of your 

family, will excite a small congregation and may well rejuvenate the saints. Your family will attract other families and adults. The church will be in a better position to grow. New life will present itself! All of this because you made a decision to worship where God can put you and your family to best use for the Kingdom.

There are many fine 'turn key' churches and there are many small churches that will benefit from your families decision to be part of the great work of building the church.

So, where does God really want you to worship and serve? Pray, asking God to place you, and your family, just where He wants you. Blessings!

"Just where he needs me, my Lord has placed me,
Just where he needs me, there would I be!
And since he found me, by love he's bound me
To serve him joyfully."

A Long, Difficult Journey!

We have all heard the saying, "God never closes one door without opening another". Of course, that can be true for many, however I am not sure this is an absolute. One thing to consider is that, often, doors close as a result of our own poor judgement and/or actions and it is not always God that is closing the door! Is it scriptural to expect God to always come to our rescue? I believe that when w

e experience hard times, we expect God to do all the work.

Additionally, consider that, sometimes, all doors HAVE been shut! I think that God allows this because 1) in such circumstances we become even more dependent on Him, and that, 2) God expects us to be active in whatever recovery we need and 3) the deeper the struggle the greater we appreciate what He provides.

Arriving at ones destination is often more gratifying and meaningful after a long, difficult trip... as opposed to a drive around the block! GDL

A New Beginning!

Every morning I wake up I say, 'thank you Lord for giving me another day'. Regardless of our circumstances, we can use the day to be productive in some way, help someone who needs us, pay special attention to our children, call someone and give them encouragement, get something on our 'to do list' done or maybe several things. The more we put of ourselves into the day, the better we feel when it c

omes to a close. We all would like to be a little richer, a little more organized, a little more engaged with life, however, we live best when we take what we do have and then do something with it... every day. Five years ago, the Lord gave me a new lease on life, Dr.'s who kept me alive and brought me back to some measure of health. Because of this, every day is a wonderful day for this poor man who has little of life's material things but much of God's blessing. Every day is a special day and a special opportunity. Sit down and plan how to make the best of it....then work your plan. This will always elevate your good feelings about yourself, about others, and about the gift of this new day!

Happy Fathers Day!

"Happy Fathers Day Dad!! If you look at all your children, we are all different and unique in our own ways. One thing we all have in common is our big hearts, and our need and want to make a better life for others. We all care so much for each other, our families, and even for complete strangers. You have done a great job raising us, and now we pass along this to our children, there is no greater gift for a father than to know that his children love and respect him, and desire to do the same for our own children! Thank You for all the sacrifices you have made, and thank you for raising us in a Godly home. Without my faith I shudder to think where I would be! I LOVE YOU!"

Going Home?

I remember Dwight Garrington speaking to us Cadets in 1978. He said, "Now that you are here, you can never go home." I never quite knew what he meant. Now that I am retired, and have returned to my childhood home in New York, I think I understand a bit more of what he was saying. Most of those once known are no longer here, so home has less to do with geography than it does experience. You see, 'Home' is a collection of experiences, life long experiences. As often as we bring them to memory, we are home! GDL

Simplicity!

I live a simple life brought about by a simple mind that understands faith in simple terms, faith in a simple Gospel that simply saves. I accept simple truths that are simply stated and I believe the world would be much better if it would return to simple times and simple practices. Jesus simply saves! The Bible is simply true! God loves me..... simply. I love Him!

For those who must live a more complicated existence...you are simply welcome to the paths you choose and decisions you make. But as for me and my house......! It is all so simple! GDL

A New Take on an Old Thought!

"While thousands upon thousands of God's creation are being aborted in the name of 'civil rights' and for no other reason than personal convenience, I'll fight; while institutions created by God HIMSELF are being ridiculed and perverted to satisfy the prurient inclinations of humankind, I'll fight; while world leaders continue to rob the poor of their dignity and self respect, I'll fight; and while the institutions of humankind continue to deny true freedom to all the people of the world, I'll fight; I'll fight.....I'll fight to the very end!"

Can't claim the 'intellectual rights' to the above but most of my FB friends will know where the inspiration came from.

The Passing of an Icon!

Skeptics will tell you that the fictional world of 'Sheriff Andy Taylor' had no basis in reality and that it was nothing more than a Utopian story line presented for entertainment purposes only. They will tell you that the 'Mayberry' experience was designed to mislead people into thinking people once lived in such a fashion. They are the same ones who have claimed for years that no one ever lived 

in 'the Beav's' world and actors like Robert Young and Andy Griffith were 'perpetuating a fraud' upon those who followed so closely events in their world.

Of course, the skeptics are wrong! There are thousands of Mayberry's alive and well today, millions of Goobers, Aunt Bee's, and Opies...all living in a very real world. Sad that the skeptics cannot understand this. Even sadder that they have never experienced what many of us have.

I grew up in a 'Father Knows Best' family, June Cleaver was my 'mother' and Wally and the Beav, my best friends. How grateful I am for the experience....the experience I wish for all people today.

As for the liberal, metroplex oriented critics....your substance is not any greater than a TV reality show which, sadly, must be the the sum total of the world you live in.

Farewell, Andy, our friend. We'll continue to watch you in reruns and experience the 'reality' of the world you mirrored on the tube!!

Remembering the Saints!

I remember when I first accepted the Lord, many years ago. I was twelve years old. I found myself taking my Bible to school with me and often telling my classmates how much it meant to me being a Christian. One day a young student approached me in the school hallway and told me that he was taking a survey in the school as to how many different denominations were represented in the student body. (Y

ou could do that in those days) I told him The Salvation Army was my church. He was much shorter than I and, looking up at me, he had a confused expression on his face. Scratching his head, he said, "Gary, I asked you what church you went to, not where you bought your clothes"! How I have enjoyed telling that story ever since!

Well, I was, indeed, raised in a God fearing family whose church was, and is, The Salvation Army. Methodist in theology, The Army taught the basics of the faith and encouraged me to live rightly before God and the world. While I have not always succeeded at that, I still "press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14)

I am thankful to those saints in the Army who have had such a great influence on my life and living.

Disagreement Does Not Constitute Hate!

It is encouraging to see tens of thousands of Christians willing to stick up for the Biblical definition of marriage. It is equally discouraging to see how many church leaders do not wish to wade into these divisive waters. I have many friends who disagree with me on this issue and that is fine, I still count them among my friends. One very important point must be made, disagreement does not const

itute hate so long as it remains in the realm of legitimate debate.

There is no hatred in in affirming the Biblical view of marriage! It is standing up and saying that one accepts the Biblical view. Christians are not boycotting supporters of Gay marriage, it is supporters of Gay marriage that are boycotting Christians. I have not heard one single hateful word spoken on the Chick fil A issue from those supporting Chick fil A, although many are passionate about it.. They simply believe in the biblical view of marriage. There is no hate in that, my friend. I don't fall for that old canard that disagreement equals hate!

Is Tolerance a Virtue?

When Jesus gave His life on the cross He did it to provide forgiveness of our sin. I do not believe He shed His blood to condone our sin! Yet, even in the church, there are those who are all to willing to turn a blind eye to sinful behavior. They do it thinking that they are taking the intellectual high ground. Somehow, in their mind, they believe tolerance is the greatest virtue. One thought occurs to me....If Jesus preached tolerance of sinful behavior, there would have been no need for Him to have given His life. My opinion of course! :)

Is Silence Really Golden?

"If you are a part of the 'silent majority' then don't talk to me about your faith as faith requires action and action requires taking a stand on biblical issues which are clear and without credible dispute!"

2 Timothy 4 (New International Version)

4" In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this

 charge: 2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; Correct, Rebuke and Encourage (capitalization is mine) — with great patience and careful instruction. 3 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry"

Is That All There Is?

Many people do not believe in the hereafter. Their understanding of things does not allow for the notion that there is a God who has provided for His people in an eternal way. For them, life is to be lived, enjoyed and, at times, tolerated. They maintain that when we die…that’s all there is! We just simply cease to exist! “There is no hope beyond this world”, they would have

 you believe. I would suggest that this thinking could not be further from the truth!

Jesus said, “In my father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2
In 2nd Corinthians 5:1 we read, “Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.”

The Bible is replete with evidentiary references to heaven as a real place to which all of God’s people go when passing through the portals of death. Death cannot hold us any more than it could hold Jesus!

As Jesus rose from the dead on the third day following His crucifixion, we too will be resurrected unto new life…life eternal.

The Bible tells us that, in heaven, there will be no more tears, no more suffering, and no more pain. No longer will our physical forms be constrained by space and time. We will be given a new body and we will live forever in the presence of our creator. As for those who do not believe, we will try to reach them and share with them this good news!

“Is that all there is?” I think not!

Who Do You Represent?

If one takes on the identity of any given organization or group but espouses a philosophy counter to that of the organization, it's time for them to look for another movement that more closely represents their views. Only my view, of course!

So, You Are Ready for Retirement?

So, you are getting ready to retire! What great days ahead. The primary challenge of retirement is, I think, "What will I do?" Every 'soon to be retired' asks themselves this all important question. Many think that they will while away the days hanging out with their children. Others see themselves hanging out at the beach. Still others see retirement as a time when they will be spending endless h

ours with old friends, perhaps many of which they have lost track with over the years. Everyone has their own vision of what those retirement days will look like.

Then, reality sets in! It always does. You move in to the new house or perhaps fix up the one you have been in for years. You begin to plan and mull over the many opportunities that will be yours. You call the kids and they are always glad to hear from you. You get together often with them those first few months (or years) then you make an unexpected discovery. Your children are all grown up! They have children of their own. They have a life of their own and activities and involvements that demand most of their time. Gradually, as time goes on, your visits are less frequent as are their visits to you. Your not to sure what to make of it all. Come to think of it, how much time did we spend with our parents during our childbearing/raising years?

Then there is hanging out at the beach. That sounds like fun. After all, who could get tired of going to the beach every day? Sun shining, waves crashing upon the sand. A soft wind blows through your hair and surely, you think, this must be paradise! Then, once again, reality sets in. You can spend only so many days at the beach before you start looking for other things to do. Besides, you were getting to much sun anyway.

Then there are old friends. The ones you have been closest to over the years. Surely there must be many that you can spend all your waking hours with!

I think it closer to the truth to realize that none of the above, by themselves, will you find to be satisfying. You begin to capture a new vision. One that is more realistic. It is only when you can position yourself to include ALL of the above that retirement begins to work for you.

Spending some time with the children, some time with old friends and some time at the beach, in the mountains, or on road trips, ect. all come together to make your retirement years meaningful. You will learn to include them all. In other words, you begin to build a life for yourself that includes all of your interests. You begin to see that you cannot depend upon anyone, other than yourself, to put it all together.

'My New Montana Home'

Forty Nine years ago this month, at the age of seventeen, I entered military service. The days that followed would represent the first time I was away from the safety and security of home and family. The level of anxiety I experienced, when being 'greeted' by our Training Instructors, was indescribable. Not at all as described by the recruiters back home. After completing Basic Military Training in Texas, I received my first orders. I would report to the 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana. It was also home to the 29th Fighter Interceptor Squadron.

As mentioned, I was very young and immature. While Uncle Sam declared me to be a 'man', I was still very much a young boy who had yet to learn what life was all about. As I went about my military responsibilities, the fear I experienced, from being separated from all things familiar, lingered on. 

During my service at Malmstrom, I met a local family who must have sensed this young man's uneasiness. They were very kind and they took a personal interest in me. One day they asked if I would like to move in with them. I welcomed the invitation and soon they became my 'new' family far away from home. 

The winters in Montana were very cold and the frequent snowfalls would challenge even the best of transplanted New Yorkers. I remember rising very early in the morning each day and hitchhiking to the Base. Yet, the warmth I felt while living in my new 'home' was worth every bit of the extra energy it took to reside off of the Base. I have often thought of this great family over the years and have always been grateful for the attention they paid to this young Airman.

Well, what's my point? It is this; All around us are people who are seemingly lost in life who are facing great anxiety, even distress. They are waiting for someone to take an interest in them, make them feel welcome! They are yearning for someone to treat them with kindness, love and understanding. They may be young and experiencing life for the first time or perhaps older and lacking direction. Whoever they are, they are presenting you with an opportunity to be a 'Friend of the Friendless'. 

Is there someone in your sphere of influence that will benefit from your concern? If so, ask God just what He wants you to do. You may just be changing a life in the process.

I will never forget Ernestine and Jim, the two Montanans who helped to shape my life. Their memory encourages me to do the same for others.

LAWS FAMILY UPDATE

The following is a brief update on the Laws family:

Susan: Susan is doing well. Most of you know that she has had two heart attacks and three strokes in recent years which have left her challenged and unable to care for herself. In addition to these concerns Sue has also had a host of other ailments which have effected her quality of life. We recently got her a wheelchair so I am hoping to get her out more often. We are waiting for a decision on her Social Security Disability application. For three years they have said she did not qualify but now we are led to believe she may. We are praying it goes through. Sue is still the sweet person she has always been but still struggles with communicating at length.

Gary: Not much to say here. My full time work is caring for Sue (Sue says it's pay back time lol). I am in good spirits and we are both enjoying the time retirement allows us both. Doctor says my heart is in good shape. I had quintuple by pass a few years ago. Still not 100% but I can't complain.

Cheryl: Our daughter, Cheryl, is the Volunteer Coordinator for The Salvation Army Greater Syracuse Area Services and loves her job. Her children are doing well; 1 in college and three still at home.

Charles has finished his seventeenth year in the US Air Force. He is stationed in Oklahoma (after 15 years in Arizona) and will retire in three yaers. He is married to a wonderful girl, Maggie, and they have three sons. They are very active in their local church.

Cynthia lives with her husband and five children here in Syracuse. She is a full time mom and home schooler. Also very active in her church and is quite a fine Christian lady.

Catherine lives with her husband and five children in Georgia where he serves as Senior Pastor at a large Baptist church. They have a lovely new home this year and are enjoying both the fruits and responsibilities of ministry. Catherine has evolved into a great pastors wife and often takes missionary trip overseas with her husband.

Donna is a wonderful mom and living with her five children here in the area. She works very hard to support her brood and is doing well.

Well, no dogs or cates to report on so I will close this by saying hello to all of our friends. It is a great life and we are enjoying every minute.

What is the Proper Length of Time for Prayer?

Do you know someone who is ill and experiencing great physical and/or emotional difficulty? I am distressed over the numbers of friends I have who are having such a rough way to go. I always take a moment most days to pray for them but I am wondering if this is enough. 

Perhaps I (we) need to be setting aside a significant block of time to pray for our friends and relatives....something more than a brief prayer of petition. Maybe an hour, maybe more. I know, it seems like a long time to block everything else in life out and focus on one thing for such an extended period of time.

But is this too long, really? I don't think so. Our family and friends need to be lifted up and lifted up regularly with a real commitment to extended prayer.

You Must Forsake the Wrong!

If being a Christian only required asking for forgiveness to get to heaven, everyone would want to be a Christian. The problem people have with Christianity is that it, also, requires adherence to a standard of behavior which, in turn, requires a turning away from the desires of this world and the flesh!

No Small Things Here!

When it was time to rise from bed this morning, I put Sues (my disabled wife) clothes out on the bed in preparation for getting her dressed. I went to the kitchen for a moment and, when I returned, I found that she had actually picked her shirt up and put it on all by herself! First time in over two years. A small thing for most, but cause for rejoicing in this house. She was so proud of herself! PTL!

Just Be There!

Just be there! I remember some years ago, my secretary, Glenda, took a personal interest in a man who, year round, slept in his car across from the Corps on a vacant lot. When the police towed his unregistered car away, he slept under a tree by night and sat on the curb outside my office by day. He did not ask for anything from us, only occasionally eating in our soup kitchen. One day Glenda took charge, talked frequently with him and finally convinced him to let her help by getting him an apartment to live in. After much back and forth the man finally agreed and, thanks to Glenda, moved in to his own small apartment. It was there that he would spend the last few months of his life. Off the streets, in relative comfort knowing that someone cared about him. There is much more to the story but let it suffice to say that the work, love and concern of this one Salvation Army lady brought a good deal of peace and comfort to a gentleman in his last days.

As you consider what you might do to help another, just be there...identify and then meet the need. God will bless you for it!

Why Do You Serve Christ?

General Colin Powell said today, " I did not come into the Army to become a General, I came in to the Army to be a good soldier"! WOW! Boy could some learn from him!

Looking for a New Church?

So, you are young, have a family and are looking for a church. You want one with youth groups, men's club, ladies circle, exciting sermons and meaningful music. In other words, you are looking for a 'turn key' church.

But what of those churches which are small and not quite ready for prime time! Imagine how exciting it could be to be a part of 'building a church'! Your presence, and that of your family, will excite a small congregation and may well rejuvenate the saints. Your family will attract other families and adults. The church will be in a better position to grow. New life will present itself! All of this because you made a decision to worship where God can put you and your family to best use for the Kingdom.

There are many fine 'turn key' churches and there are many small churches that will benefit from your families decision to be part of the great work of building the church.

So, where does God really want you to worship and serve? Pray, asking God to place you, and your family, just where He wants you. Blessings!

"Just where he needs me, my Lord has placed me,
Just where he needs me, there would I be!
And since he found me, by love he's bound me
To serve him joyfully."

Whatever Happened to Sin?

The Bible says that "the wages of sin is death' ", yet there is an an alarming number of preachers who refuse to preach about sin and hell! In order to be forgiven of sin one must acknowledge they are a sinner and have violated God's law. However, how can they learn this if they are not confronted with the reality of sin?

When a Door Closes, Who Closes It?

We have all heard the saying, "God never closes one door without opening another". Of course, that can be true for many, however I am not sure this is an absolute. One thing to consider is that, often, doors close as a result of our own poor judgement and/or actions and it is not always God that is closing the door! Is it scriptural to expect God to always come to our rescue? I believe that when we experience hard times, we expect God to do all the work.

Additionally, consider that, sometimes, all doors HAVE been shut! I think that God allows this because 1) in such circumstances we become even more dependent on Him, and that, 2) God expects us to be active in whatever recovery we need and 3) the deeper the struggle the greater we appreciate what He provides.

Arriving at ones destination is often more gratifying and meaningful after a long, difficult trip... as opposed to a drive around the block! GDL

A New Day

Every morning I wake up I say, 'thank you Lord for giving me another day'. Regardless of our circumstances, we can use the day to be productive in some way, help someone who needs us, pay special attention to our children, call someone and give them encouragement, get something on our 'to do list' done or maybe several things. The more we put of ourselves into the day, the better we feel when it comes to a close. We all would like to be a little richer, a little more organized, a little more engaged with life, however, we live best when we take what we do have and then do something with it... every day. Five years ago, the Lord gave me a new lease on life, Dr.'s who kept me alive and brought me back to some measure of health. Because of this, every day is a wonderful day for this poor man who has little of life's material things but much of God's blessing. Every day is a special day and a special opportunity. Sit down and plan how to make the best of it....then work your plan. This will always elevate your good feelings about yourself, about others, and about the gift of this new day!

What Makes Church, Church?

Getting the Victory Over Burnout

You Need Not Worry!

Dealing With Difficult People

I Have Arrived!

Well we have now prepared for this day. Putting on our finest clothes, cleaned pressed and ready to impress. The woman, hair done, every strand in place. Make up just perfect. Extra hairspray and eyebrow liner, just in case.

Men groomed and ready to parade. Many folks to see and be seen by. Been so busy, am at a loss to why. O, yes, now it comes to me, time for church, not English Tea!

How excited we are, for the time has finally come; we'll be noticed, admired, even sought out. Strategically placed Bible in hand, with its not so worn pages and somehow I know that my spirit engages all those elements that will make me feel good. Now that all have seen me, my aura outstanding, I know I've succeeded at personal branding.

Then at home, upon my return, I shall reflect on how good it was for those who had the chance to see me once again!

" O, God, forgive me for my vanity and superficiality. Help me to understand the true nature of worship's grandeur. Help me also to see the wretch that I really am. Bless me today in spite of myself and help me to remember that it was you who gloriously rode into the Holy City and that it was not me the crowds were cheering!" GDL

What Makes Christians Different?

The Six Characteristics of the Christian Life

Giving Up the Cookies

The Power of the Resurrection

Haunts of Sin and Shame?

I thought of this old hymn tonight as I was contemplating the effectiveness of our ministry in the world. It has become so easy to share the Gospel story in places of comfort, hasn't it. From pulpit to pew , such sharing has become routine and its almost second nature to each of us in ministry.

The four walls of the church have provided for us a safe haven within which we can be as bold and bombastic or as quiet and demure as we wish.

But what about the streets and the public places? Are we anywhere to be found in those less secure, even risky places? In part the answer is yes! We are there giving a cup of cold water, a meal, shelter and a smile! My question, however, is...are we there with Scripture, Song and Sermon in hand?

Perhaps we are making a difference by meeting many of the social requirements of the marginalized, but what of the requirements of the soul?

I think that, ultimately, we will be judged by how many of the those bound by evil, those who feel they no hope of spiritual liberty, we take to heaven with us.

When approaching eternity I doubt that we will be required to submit our statistical spreadsheet for admission; unless it be the seekers register! GDL

1.
We are witnesses for Jesus
In the haunts of sin and shame,
In the underworld of sorrow
Where men seldom hear his name;
For to bind the brokenhearted
And their liberty proclaim,
We are witnesses for Jesus
In the haunts of sin and shame.

Chorus
Tell the world, O tell the world!
Make salvation’s story heard
In the highways, in the byways,
And in lands beyond the sea,
Do some witnessing for Jesus
Wheresoever you may be.

2.
We are witnesses for Jesus
In the lands beyond the sea,
Where the millions bound by evil
Have no hope of liberty;
As we tell the gospel tidings,
Lo! the captives are set free;
We are witnesses for Jesus
In the lands beyond the sea.

3.
We are witnesses for Jesus
In the home and in the mart,
Where the cares of life and fashion
Crowd the Saviour from the heart;
When we urge his claims with wisdom
Many choose the better part;
We are witnesses for Jesus
In the home and in the mart.

Four Steps to Victory in the Face of Temptation

TEMPTATION

“A silly idea is current that good people do not know what temptation means. This is an obvious lie. Only those who try to resist temptation know how strong it is... A man who gives in to temptation after five minutes simply does not know what it would have been like an hour later. That is why bad people, in one sense, know very little about badness. They have lived a sheltered life by always giving in.” 
― C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity: Compromising the Case for Christianity, Christian Behaviour, and Beyond Personality

Bringing Hope to the Doorsteps of Hell

Don't Get Squirrely on Us!

And Again I Say Rejoice

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The Power of the Cross

How You Can Make a Difference

When the Rain Comes

Dealing with Success and Failure