What Are You Looking for in a Friendship?

Looking through my journals from camp, actually packing them away for disposal, and came across another great question from "Dean Fig's Court"

"If you could only choose one attribute in a friend, what would it be?" GREAT QUESTION! My answer was that while there are many important aspects of friendship, trust, honesty, love, perseverance, and the list could go on and on for days, I think the one attribute that a great friend must possess is loyalty. It is my contention that if loyalty exists all those other attributes are present. I am not talking about a "yes person" but someone who will be honest with you in tough decisions. A loyal person is there when everyone else is fleeing. A loyal person will love no matter what. A loyal person is someone you can trust in all situations.


I think 5 years later I still like that answer. As I grow older I understand that many "friends" aren't really loyal, they are like bandwagon jumpers in sports. When things are going well, they cheer and back the team. But one bad stretch in the season and they are ready to give their team gear to Goodwill and find a new team, forgetting all about their former fandom.

Likewise, God calls us to be loyal. To stay the course in good times and bad. To by loyal to His calling, His following, His guidance, His Word, His Son. Loyalty, a much needed attribute in this day and age.

Forgotten but Not Alone

A man was on his way home with a new car, which was absorbing all his attention, when it struck him that he had forgotten something.

Twice he stopped, counted his parcels, searched his pockets, but finally decided he had everything with him. Yet the feeling persisted.

When he reached home his daughter ran out, stopped short, and cried:

"Daddy, where's Mommy?"

What do you think is the most powerful, yet fragile part of you? I am sure there are many answers to that question. But what I am looking for is your memory. When it is good you get to celebrate that anniversary of a couple who is special in your life. You get to spend that awesome time at the bonfire. You get to have lunch with a person you helped through a tough time but don’t get to see that often. When it’s bad, you miss out on the recital. A meeting is held without you. And worst of all, you forget an item on the wife’s grocery list.

It’s hurts to be forgotten. We have all experienced it at one time or another. We know the pain of expecting someone to remember — to show up, call, text, email, ask, make time — and coming up empty and alone. If they really cared, they would’ve remembered, right?

When I find myself is certain situations, my practice is to try to find someone in the Bible who can relate. For those who feel forgotten, I don’t think you need to look any further than Joseph, the favorite son of Jacob and eventual ruler of Egypt. Joseph was forgotten when he probably needed remembered the most. He was sold into slavery by his brothers, jailed for something he didn’t do because of Potipher’s wife. During this time Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker are arrested and jailed. Both were suspected of crimes against Pharaoh himself and are facing almost certain death. They know no one crosses the most powerful person in Egypt and lives to tell about it. (By the way, you can read all about this in Genesis 40).

The two men had nightmares one night. One was given great news, the other bad news. Joseph told the cupbearer he would once again be Pharaoh’s cupbearer, in fact this would take place in just 3 days. In exchange for this amazing news, he makes one request: Please remember me before Pharaoh. One sentence from you might finally free me. He then turns to the baker and tells him in the same 3 days, he would die.

Can you guess what happened? Exactly what Joseph had predicted.

But there is one verse in this story that is one of the saddest verses, I think, in scripture. “Yet the cupbearer did not remember Joseph, but forgot him” (40:23). He wasn’t scared of what Pharaoh might do or say if he mentioned Joseph’s name, he flat out forgot him!

“But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison” (39:21). If God was so concerned about making Joseph popular in the prison, we know he didn’t check out now.

This becomes clear in the next chapter when Pharaoh has a dream. He asks all the wise men in Egypt, and none of them can interpret. Finally, the cupbearer remembers Joseph and tells Pharaoh what happened.

Pharaoh calls Joseph, God speaks to Joseph, he rightly interprets Pharaoh’s dream, and he saves Egypt from famine and ruin. So Pharaoh puts Joseph in charge of all of Egypt, second in command.

So what do we learn from this? When you feel forgotten, abandoned, beat down, alone, know that God has never forgotten you.

You will experience all kinds of hard things in this life. You might be forgotten or betrayed by the people you love most, but understand this, absolutely nothing that can happen to you on this earth can deny what God has said about you once and for all because of Jesus’s life, death on the cross, and resurrection from the dead. God never forgets you. God created you, he paid for your sins and you are HIS! Man will forget. Man will disappoint. Man will abandon you when things get tough. Man will slander and gossip. Man will be human. But God will never forget disappoint, abandon or slander. God will be divine giving His divine forgiveness, mercy, grace and love. Be comforted by these promises.

5 Lessons I Hope My Children Learned from Me

I started a couple of weeks ago sharing from a journal I found from “Dean Fig’s Court,” a time at church camp in which we let our campers ask any questions. This week, I share from K.M. who asked, “Other than ‘church stuff’ (like God and church and stuff) what are the 5 best pieces of advice you’ve given you kids and would you give them to us?”

Of course my answer began as with “The God and STUFF is the by far the most important!” But this is what I wrote down that night that I told them and I thought I might share with you tonight before I go to bed.

1, Be sure to tell those you love that you love them. I do that daily if possible. I don’t want to leave this world with someone pondering if I loved them or not. There is no more important emotion than love, let others know.

2. Respect everyone. Regardless of how others treat you, respect them. Respect their choices, respect their decisions, respect their beliefs. This doesn’t mean you have to agree with them or condone their actions, but it is their right to live their life the way they so choose.

3 In all things, show grace, mercy and forgiveness. This is possibly the most difficult part of life, but also one of the most necessary. It matters not how someone treats you. It matters not what they say about you or what they do to you, take the high road in all situations with love, grace, forgiveness and mercy given to you by your Lord. We don’t deserve it from Him and many times others don’t deserve it from us, but God gives it anyway and so should we.

4. Be you in all situations. Don’t change who you are for a boy or girl. Don’t let anyone or any situation define who you are. You are a child of the King and what He thinks is all that matters. Don’t change your dress, your desires or your dreams because of anyone else. Be you.

5. No matter what you do in life, there are choices. And with those choices can come rewards or consequences. Don’t let anybody steal your thunder, but don’t let anybody take the blame either. Own up to your mistakes, learn from them and move on with life. Never hang your head, even in defeat. Don’t brag when you win. Do your best and win or lose, give God glory and don’t give a rip about what others say about it.

I hope my kids have learned these lessons. These may not be on your top 5 list (other than all that God stuff) but I think they are the best advice I could give my kids both blood born and otherwise. God bless each of you this Lord’s day.

Church Killers: Tradition and ByLaws

Admittedly this post is more for my friends who are minsters or in church leadership, but it is also important for any member of a congregation.

Over the years I have spent time talking to those in church leadership and invariably the conversion has turned to factors that harm the church.  There are several, many to mention really, but 2 topics usually come up!  Tradition and ByLaws.  You read that correctly.

How many of you have heard the phrase "We've never done it that way before!"?  A word of advice.  When you hear those words.....RUN!!!  Because you are about to embark on a conversation that will not only lack rationale, but any Biblical content whatsoever, unless you want to count Great Grandpa 3:12 as scripture.  Traditions slowly become Holy and can't be touched.  Whether it be when communion comes in the service, songs that must be sung and those that can't be, preaching attire, the KJV, coffee in the sanctuary, whether the toiler paper hangs over or under, and the list goes on and on!  When tradition takes over, common sense and scripture often go out the door.

I think the best question we can ask ourselves, whether in ministry, leadership or sitting in the pews, is why do we do this?  Many of the things we do in church has a very Biblical reason, but some things are simply a tradition.  I am not saying tradition has no room in our churches.  Some of them are awesome!  But to do something just because "we've always done it that way" is, quite frankly, a very silly reason to do anything.

Another rather tickling situation in our churches are the By Laws.  Did you even know your church has them?  Odds are they do because of the civil responsibilities of being incorporated and non profit status.  Many of them are locked away in a box under the basement steps guarded by a rat or a snake to keep anyone from reading them.  Ask for a copy and be prepared to be stared at like you have 3 heads or you just asked for the Presidential Secret Book.

The By Laws are quoted, referred to, alluded to by leadership on occasion.  But it usually depends on who you ask as to what the By Laws say.  You have a better chance getting struck by lightning than getting a straight answer on a By Law question.  Much like tradition, I urge you to get a copy of the By Laws, don't take someone's word about what they say.  Read them and asked the same question you asked about traditions.  Why is this in here?  Why can't we have certain groups sing here?  Why can't a group have a yard sale in the parking lot?  Why are the elders elected for lifetime?  Why aren't there any women on the pulpit committee?  They have to listen to sermons too.

I have actually heard an elder say, "We don't follow the By Laws anyway."  Why?  Why have them if you don't follow them?  But they do come in handy when leadership needs a reason to say "You can't do that."  But when the By Laws say something the leadership doesn't want to do, those pesky things are just in the way.

Be aware my friends.  Traditions and By Laws can kill ya if you aren't careful!!

Sawdust and Logs

It is very rare that I get mad or upset (and I am not right now). But I have been thinking a lot lately about how people love to talk and gossip and degrade. In normal situations it is because by making others look bad, they can elevate themselves or take attention away from their own downfalls.

I have to think Jesus had something similar in His mind when He said in Matthew 7, "For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? "Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye?"

Does this anger me when I have been the brunt of a whole lot of talk lately?  Not really.  I am not perfect by any stretch.  I have many faults.  Some things I have heard are being said are utterly outrageous, but people gonna spread juicy gossip.  The great theologians REO Speedwagon knew this when they sang, "But I know the neighborhood, and talk is cheap when the story is good and the tales grow taller on down the line."

I recently read a great quote and I wish I know who wrote to give him/her credit, "Counting other people's sins does not make you a saint.  It's easy to judge.  However judging others will not make us better people and will not make our own sins go away."  TRUTH!

I don't get mad very often.  I do get hurt and disappointed.  I have to come to the realization to expect to be disrespected by many who I used to respect the most.  That is human nature.  Some people take pleasure in gossip that is hurtful of others.  I am not sure why.  I really don't understand.  Especially those who call themselves a "christian."  

Ephesians 4:29 -- Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

James 4:11 --Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.

James 1;26 -- Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

And Jesus said in Matthew 12:36-37 "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak,  for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

We have downplayed the sin of gossip as our duty to "share in Christian love" with others what we "know" about others.  We have lumped it in with "little white lies" and other "small" sins that don't really matter anymore.  But sin is still sin and God still hates sin.  I am not saying yours are worse than mine, but I am saying I am a sinner and so are you. But God's grace is amazing and the blood of Christ which covers my sins can covers yours too.  And the forgiveness He gives me, I extend to all who wrong me. Be careful about the sawdust and the logs.

What God Sees

“The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (I Sam 16:7b) What does God see when He looks at a person? The HEART! Not the blood pumping muscle inside, but our motives, our compassion, our desires. What is in our heart is what He can use.

God amazes me with how he can use crummy situations and broken people for His glory. I think back to a man named Moses. Heard of him? Did you know he killed an Egyptian? Yet God used him to deliver His people from Egypt. Moses made a huge mistake, but God saw leadership and love in his heart. How about David? He commits adultery, which led to a child, which led to lies and ultimately murder. Did God discard him? Nope, he is called a “man after God’s own heart” in scripture. Peter, how about that Peter! Makes a statement Christ said He would build the church on, cuts off another man’s ear, swears eternal allegiance to Christ, denies Him hours later. Surely his heart was black and unusable by God, right? Not quite, just a few weeks after denying his Lord, Peter delivered one of the most powerful sermons in history. Saul? Well, you know his story and what he did to Christians. If not, read Acts and find out. Then you will also find out that Saul (later Paul) was the greatest evangelist in the history of Christianity.

Man would look at these men with murder, adultery, lies, assault with a deadly weapon, treason, persecutor of Christians and think they are burning in hell. God saw leaders, evangelists, hearts of love for God and people. God took some pretty tough situations and pretty bad decisions from men who were broken, cracked vessels and used them in a mighty way. But God can mend the broken vessel, with love, forgiveness, grace, mercy and compassion if the heart is there to serve.






I am firmly convinced God is not nearly concerned about where we've been as He is about where we are going. Man will rarely let you live down your past mistakes, Satan wants you to live in your past, but God says don't worry about the past forgiven sins. He has a plan for your future!!! Don’t let men define you by their cowardly actions and hurtful words. God defines you by what men cannot see, your heart.

When God Says, "No"

I am sure most of you who are reading this are people of prayer.  Prayer is our communication with God, a time I treasure and hope you do as well.  God answers all of our prayers, just sometimes not the way we want to.  When He says, "Yes" that is great!  "Thank YOU God!  You are awesome!!!"  We generally have no problem at all when God gives us our request.

But sometimes God says, "Wait."  We aren't as excited about that answer are we?  Perhaps God knows you aren't ready for what you are asking, or perhaps you need to be stretched a little more so what you are enduring is necessary for Christian growth and maturity. "Wait" is something we just don't like to do.  We get bent out of shape if we have to sit more than a couple of minutes in the drive thru.  But God has a reason for us to be patient we just need to accept that.

And to be quite honest, sometimes God says, "No!"  There are those who want what they want and God says, "NO, that is not what is best!"  But we don't like, "No" at all!!  And so we are sometimes like little children, we want to hold our breath, throw a temper tantrum, kick and scream and hope our actions will change God's mind.  But there is a reason God said no.  And as Christians we need to be willing to accept God's will.

In the Garden Jesus asked that the cup pass.  He asked that He not have to go through what was facing Him in the next few hours.  What did God say?  "No Son, this is my will for You."  If God can tell Jesus, "No" then He certainly can tell me "No" can't he?

Yet, when we don't get our way with one tactic, we try another one.  And if that doesn't work, we will try something else.  And we might even eventually get our way.  But does that mean it was now God's will?  I don't think so.  I believe sometimes we try to get our way so hard that God allows "our way" to happen,  Perhaps just to show us that He was right to say "No" so many times.  Perhaps to show us that when we try so hard to get our way, we need a lesson to learn.  It's been my experience that when God says "No" it's best to accept it and lean on Him even stronger.

Is it easy to know what God's will is?  I believe it is.  God can be very clear if only we slow down, get quiet and listen.  Sometimes He yells His answer very loud!  Sometimes He is more subtle.  But He always answers.  If you are one who thanks God for "yes's" I challenge you to also thank Him for the "no's" and the "wait's."  His will is what is best in all situations, regardless of our wants.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."  Proverbs 3:5-6

13 Ways Tremors from Parkinson’s Disease Come in Handy

From the "laugh about it or you'll cry" file.  Things have been a little difficult lately.  I had to start a new Parkinson's med this week and the month of May hasn't been the best anyway in many areas of my life.  Sometimes in adversity you find out who truly loves you and has your back.  When lies and rumors are spread by those "friends" you thought you had, you are hurt, but at least you know who to trust.  But God gave me a sense of humor for a reason, one of which is to laugh when I want to cry sometimes.  I found some of these, added others, rewrote others and laughed so hard, so here are 12 Ways PD tremors come in handy.  Enjoy!

1. Rocking your fussy grandchild to sleep. Give Mom and Dad a break. Five minutes with us, and the little booger is out.

2. Freaking out a burglar. Who needs ADT? Put up a yard sign that says “The Owner of This House Has a Shotgun. And Parkinson’s. Good Luck.” Sleep well.

3. Fertilizing the yard. We can sprinkle for acres without tiring. Give us the fertilizer bag, and we’ll see you at lunch.

4. Blow-drying hair. Hairdressers say blow-dryers cause less damage if you move them quickly from side to side, as opposed to holding them steady. ‘Nuf said.

5. Cooking and baking. We can whisk eggs. All. Day. Long. And you need sprinkles on those cookies? Just hand over the jar and walk away. We got this.

6. Feed your fish. Need a little shake of food twice a day? One good tremor twitch and the Goldie twins have got exactly the right amount of dinner.

7. Pet the cat. We can do this for hours without tiring. Seriously, our arms are moving anyway. You may as well stick a cat under there.

8. Tossing tinsel on the Christmas tree. Everybody loves those little silver strands, but nobody likes having to place them onto the tree. Hand those individual strands to your closest Parkinson’s relative. We’ll tremor-toss them all night long, until that tree glows in the dark. Merry Christmas.

9. Channel surfing. But I got to warn you. We’re fast. You may need to be an Evelyn Wood speed reading graduate to keep up, but give us a remote and we’ll show you how it’s done.

10. Italian Food Improvement.  Parmesan cheese makes everything Italian taste better.  Hand over the dispenser and say "when"

11. Camp fires. And I’m not talking about the EZ, light-in-a-pit things with presto logs. I’m talking “Survivor” fires, with no matches.  The ones where somebody has to rub two sticks together, really, really fast, until combustion. Hand over the sticks. We’ll call you when dinner’s ready.

12. Make popcorn. None of that wimpy microwave crap either. The good stuff,  that requires tedious moments of pan shaking on the stovetop. Oh, you want a bowl for a late-night movie? No problem. Just prop us up next to the stove and put those sleep tremors to work. Yeah, we’re that good.

13. Craft projects. See “Cooking and baking.” Only with glitter.

A Message of Easter

As I sit here this afternoon thinking about Easter, I can't get a couple traits of human nature off my mind.  We are, by nature, selfish, grudge holding beings.  We make many decisions based solely on what it means for us, without even considering others.  We sometimes forgive, but we rarely forget.  Is that what Christ asked of us?  Does that sound like a message of Easter to you?

In the events surrounding what we call the Easter Story is a selfless, forgiving Savior.  A man who took a beating at the hands of men whom later he forgave.  A man who could have, at any point, called it quits and left us in danger of an eternity of hell.  A man who bent His will to the will of the Father because of his love for me.

In Easter, I see the unconditional love and forgiveness that Christ also asks of us.  Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind and Love your neighbor as yourself (Matt 22:37-38).  And Christ also said, "If you forgive those who sin against you, then my Father will forgive you.  But if you refuse to forgive others, my Father will not forgive your sins." (Matt 6:14-15)

As we approach Resurrection Sunday, I challenge all who read this to love and forgive.  If you are reading this, please know I love you and if you have done anything against me, I do forgive you.  I ask that if I have wronged you in some way, that you find room for forgiveness as well.

Christ the Lord is RISEN.  We serve a LIVING Savior!  God bless you!  Have an amazing Easter!

Basketball Season Is Over---Mixed Feelings

My 17th basketball season as a sportscaster has come to an end.  I am not sure how to feel about this.  Usually I am very happy that the season is over.  I get to be home more with my wife and family.  She is such an understanding lady living as a basketball widow all winter.  I don't have to get out in freezing weather and drive to "wherever" for games.  I will probably not get texts, tweets, emails, smoke signals or carrier pigeons from people who are upset because I did this game or that one or picked this team or that one.  I will get more rest, which I need these days.  That's all good!  But I also won't get the opportunity to see some great people that have been a part of my life for the past several months.  Coaches, players, fans, cheerleaders, broadcasters, etc.

Lately I have thought a great deal about what I do and why I do it.  I am truly blessed to be able to work with some wonderful people and promote some great student athletes.  That is who I do what I do for.  I was also recently shown the realization that we are not guaranteed our next game.  Wednesday night at this year's Sweet 16 I sat and talked to my friend Ira Combs for over an hour.  When he left, he said, "I'll see ya Friday Timbo, I am going to Louisville tomorrow."  I didn't see Ira Friday, he died in the Yum Center Thursday morning.  I have no idea if God will give me another season or not.  So I want to thank everyone who made this past season an awesome one.  Late in the year I decided to grab as many pictures as I could of people I cover.  I called them "memory makers" and I am thankful for those of you who obliged.  Here are some collages of those pics.

 And here are some more!

And yet some more!!

As you can see, I have had a blast this season!!  I got to work with my son all year.  We were able once again able to work district and region championships together.  We worked both Boys and Girls Sweet 16 together.  I love that aspect of my job as well.  When I left the State Tourney today, a lot of people said, "See ya next year Tim!"  To which I replied, "Lord willing."  But I hugged them, took some pictures, made sure they knew I appreciate them, just in case.  We never know.

The season is over.  Part of me is so relieved cause it hasn't been an easy season for me.  Part of me is so sad, because I know some of the people in the photos above, I may never see again.  Thanks for those reading this.  You have some type of interest in what I have to say, so THANK YOU no matter if you were a player, coach, fan, listener, whatever, I do so much appreciate you all!  God bless!

If You See Me Cry....

I wouldn't even try to guess how many ball games I have been privileged to broadcast on the air.  After 16 years and a few pounds lost or gained and a few thousand miles on the road, it's pretty much been a blur. One game I will never forget occurred on March 6, 2006.  It wasn't a particularly super important type game.  But it was a great ball game.  Coach Rick Mays and his Elliott Co Lions knocked off the mighty Ashland Tomcats 61-59 in what I could only describe as a good ol' good one. Jonathan Ferguson had an awesome game en route to winning the MVP of the Tournament despite losing in the finals to Russell that year.

I called the game, ran to my car and began the drive home to see my son Titus.  I wasn't sure I would get to see him alive.  His 32 day old body was weakening from a heart disease he was born with.  As I approached Olive Hill, my son Tucker called to see when I would be home.  I told him about 20 minutes.  I heard him say, "Daddy will be here in 20 minutes Titus!"  As I walked in the house, my lovely bride was rocking our son as she had for the past 31 days.  I walked over to the chair, she handed Titus to me.  He opened up 1 eye as if to make sure Daddy was home, then he took a deep breath and died in my arms.  I said at time it was a beautiful ending to our journey with Titus.  We were all surrounding him with love and comfort as he went home to be with his Creator.

My next assignment at Ellis T Johnson Arena is Friday, March 6th.  It is very difficult for me to walk into that gym on that day.  Memories of that night come flooding back. When I get there, I really don't want to leave.  But for me, the best way to handle difficult situations has always been to work.  It takes my mind off things.  If we play Friday night, when the East Lady Raiders and Ashland Kittens tip it up, my world goes to basketball for the next hour and a half.

So, if you see me cry this weekend, whether it be in the gym on Friday, Saturday or even Sunday.  Or if you see me crying in Ralph's or Pizza Hut.  Just know the tears are selfish, but it's ok to give me a hug or a pat on the back.  It is even OK to ignore me if you wish.  Just know I  am missing my son.  I wouldn't bring him back even if I could, but I sure do wish he could be at the gym with me.  He would be 9 years old, strutting around press row loving the fact that his dad and brother were on the radio and he was sitting next to them with a headset on listening.

So if you see me crying, just know my heart is with my son this weekend.  If I seem down or distant, please don't take it personal.  For a little while I am, in my mind, visiting my son, knowing I have to leave him for a little while.  But the good news is, I will get to see him forever some day!!

God bless you all.

Tim

No Regrets

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 

I preached a funeral not too long ago.  We went to the cemetery which was older but nicely kept. I cannot recall what was inscribed on most of the tombstones but I do remember one inscription:

Mary Fisher
1845 – 1873
Deeply Regretted

I don’t know who Mary Fisher was. For me her entire life is contained in the dash between those two numbers: Regretted.  I have no clue how she died.  I only knew in that moment that I did not want that epitaph on my grave. I did not want my name and then the words “deeply regretted” tagged onto the end. 

Imagine having your entire life summed up by the words: “deeply regretted”?
Not intensely loved. Not dearly beloved or greatly missed. Not enthusiastically lived. Not loved by many or even No Regrets.  But deeply regretted.

I walked away from that funeral asking the same question over and over.  How to live and not regret?  So much in our lives steals and destroys.  So much can make us live with regret.  But Jesus didn't come for us to live with regrets.  Jesus came that we might have life: life to the full. 

Allowing ourselves to dwell on regrets steals from the life Jesus came to give us.
If we do want to live fully, without regrets, we have to believe that Jesus has come to give us new life. We have to look at the mistakes we've made, accept the consequences and find a way to bring life back into them. 

Maybe this means apologizing, or telling someone you love them or trying something you fear. Perhaps living without regret means sacrificing something you love or finding a way to shake a habit or radically changing your life or forgiving someone who hurt you. 

Perhaps the best way to live without regret is not doing something we might regret.  I don't know if there is something you regret.  But if there is, God can fix it.  Don't allow regret to steal the life He has given you.

One area in life we might regret is letting others slip out of our life.  Chicago, a great band from my high school days, sang "You don't know what you've got until it's gone, and I found out a little too late."  It's easy sometimes to grow apart and it gets easier. 

Live your life to the full!  Don't let regret control you.  If you regret something said or done, ask for forgiveness.  If you regret how you treated someone, mend the relationship.  I know you are young, not thinking about your tombstone, but don't let your marker say, "Deeply Regretted" 

Late Night Ramblings

I want to preface my remarks to you today by saying that this is not a "subtweet" nor is anything I am about to say personal toward any reader.  I actually don't even know where this is going to be quite honest.  As I begin it's 2am, nothing unusual for me.  Insomnia and I are great friends.  I am now the captain of Team No Sleep, thus the title Late Night Ramblings.  I am not even sure I could call this a devotion, not sure what I can call it, but rambling is something I am pretty good at.

There are just some things I want the younger readers who I text daily with a devo to understand.

Paul told the readers of his letter to Colossae that they should speak graciously, for their goal was to bring out the best in others.  Sometimes it's not what you say, it's how you say it.  And sometimes it's impossible to know how you say something if the only way you speak is through texts.  Many fights have been started over someone reading emotion into texts.  The tone of your voice can make a huge difference in what you are saying is interpreted.  I really can't give you a great example because you are reading and not listening.  LOL  Be gentle in speech.

Understand also that just because someone sees something differently than you that you are not right and they are not wrong.  People don't have to agree on everything.  People don't have to be the same.  But just because someone is different doesn't mean they are wrong or stupid or silly.  You may not cry at a movie, but if your friend does, then what's the big deal?  You may not like mushrooms on your pizza, but if your friend does, who cares?  These are pithy examples I know, but you can take that to any level you'd like.  Life is way too short to get mad over something trivial or to give up on someone just because you don't see eye to eye on everything. Paul even told the Philippians to value others above ourselves.  Give in sometimes.  Compromise is the key to many relationships.

That brings me to what I really wanted to share.  Take responsibility for your actions.  The one problem I really see in your generation (in general, not you) is blame throwing.  "It's not my fault!"  Sometimes it might not be your fault, but many times fault doesn't matter!  Once something has happened it can't be taken back.  Blaming someone is like shutting the barn door after the horse has gotten out!  It does no good.  If you mess up, suck it up and take the blame, apologize and move on.

With that being said, I am sorry to those of you who I have been short with lately or whiny, or needy or sensitive or even angry.  While I can use many factors as an excuse, I won't.  It's me.  I know when I am feeling that way and I should just shut down at that point.  There are things going on with me right now that simply sometimes make me not me.  This being a public blog I would rather not go into them at this point.  If you were invited to read this and want to ask me questions feel free.  I will answer them as honestly as I can. But I do apologize to each of you.  I especially apologize to my best friend who has taken the brunt of much of my problems but doesn't deserve to.  We talk daily and I don't know what I would do without her.  Yes, her.  I feel I have damaged our friendship and for that I am truly sorry.  I can't undo it, just ask for forgiveness which I ask from each of you.

I also need to apologize to a dear friend who asked me to be a part of her special day today, but I can't participate and I feel so bad about it.  I so wish I could share in your celebration.  Please send me a pic?  God bless you and I am proud of you!

Well it's almost 3am.  I have thought and rambled long enough.  Thank you all who made it to the end.  If you did, you are a true friend.  I am very fortunate to have so many young people who care.  Some people don't show they care very well, but just because they don't show it doesn't mean they don't.  Some people just show it in different ways.  I end with 3 words I feel are so important that we should hear (or read) them everyday from someone who cares.  3 words that some have problems with because our society has perverted the meaning of the last word.  But for those of you who know me, know I mean them and you know the way in which I mean them.  May God bless you with an amazing day.  I LOVE YOU!!!

Looking For God?

I did not have a very good day yesterday to be quite honest.  I had some health problems, I fell face first into a snow bank that was about 3 feet deep, I just didn't have a very good day.  But, early this morning I received a rather long text from a dear friend who was one of the very first person to be on my devo list.  Hannah Baldwin is a very special young lady to me.  We have shared many prayers with and for each other.  I love her very much.  Her text lifted my spirits and I wanted it to possibly help you this morning as well.  With her permission I am using her text and testimony as the bulk of today's devo.  Here is what she sent me this morning.

I just wanted to share my testimony with you today. It may not sound like much but it meant everything to me this morning. when you don't feel God trust me He's  there. It's 6:03 in the morning and I've never felt more of him than I do now. He's shown me more of him than I've ever seen. This morning I woke up and the devil was creeping at my day because I felt sick and I was tired. But I wasn't going to let him steal my day. So I was on my way to work and I was passing commercial bank and on the sign I don't know if I imagined it or what but I know God put it there, it said Be still and pray. And I got to work and when I came in at work it was a disaster and I was so aggravated  and I look over on the desk and I see a bracelet and it says 'walk in him' Colossians 2:6 then I go to do the laundry because all the towels are dirty which ticks me off a little bit and the quarter isn't there. You have to have a  quarter to do the laundry. Everyone will be mad if there isn't any clean towels. I search up and down for a quarter. I comeback out to the desk and in the floor under the desk in the corner where no one ever is lays a quarter. Someone tell me God isn't real and God isn't powerful because I WILL PROVE YOU WRONG

What an awesome thought.  Sometimes we want God to show us His power and His presence in some mighty show that is unmistakable.  But more often than not, God shows Himself to us in the little things, like He did for Hannah this morning.  

In Exodus 33, God is chatting with Moses and God made this promise in verse 14, "My presence will go with you and I will give you rest."  That promise was made to Moses, but it is still a promise we have today.  God promised to never leave our side and His presence will be with us always.  If we look for Him, He will give us rest.  What a great thought.  

I want to thank Hannah for her uplifting text this morning and for letting me share it with you.  If you ever have an idea for a devo, or an experience you would like shared let me know.  I would love to hear some of your testimonies whether you want them pubic or not.  I love seeing how God is working in the lives of the people I love.

Have an awesome day!  God bless you all!  I love you!!

Rumors of My Demise

Some of you know, some don't. but yesterday I was in a small car wreck.  Nothing major, a truck got out of control and was coming toward me I ran into a ditch.  I am fine, no worries.  But life in a small town is marvelous.  10 minutes later, I was killed in that car wreck!  LOL  It's funny now, but to a group of people on this list it wasn't funny at all.  They scrambled to find out what happened.  In the process of the wreck, I got out of my truck and my phone fell into a foot of snow.  I finally found it and it was off.  I figured it was gone.

I went on to the station.  My phone was off, I was working.  Long story short, when I turned on my phone I had a ton of texts asking me if I was ok, please text me back, etc.  One text explained what had happened and I texted everyone back as soon as possible.

I was talking with some of these players last night and one statement stood out.  "I thought this morning was my last chance to talk to you and I didn't reply"

James 4:14 tells asks a great question:  "You don't even know what will happen tomorrow.  What is your life?  You are a mist that lasts for a little while and then vanishes."

We really don't know when our life is going to end.  I don't say this to scare you, Yesterday I "died" for about an hour.  People felt terrible.  People were upset, sad, worried, concerned.  Why?  I am not totally sure.  One young lady said, "Actually, I knew I would have to be happy for you.  You would be up there partying with God, but you know me.  I'd be selfish.  I need you for advice."  I was happy that some people felt they would miss me, but I also felt weird that others were worried because they thought I was gone.  But I am ready to die. I don't have a death wish but I'm not afraid of death.

The lesson?  Don't take life for granted.  Don't take people for granted.  Let people know how you feel just in case tomorrow never comes.  Also, be ready.  Be ready for heaven. If you ever have any question about your salvation I am always here for you.

If I had died yesterday, I hope you know that I love you!  Have an amazing day!

Some Past Devo's In Case You Missed Them

Genesis

Gen 1:27 “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” The creator of an object defines that object, Don't let the opinion of others define you. You are created in God's image, that makes you special in His eyes. He loves you unconditionally as His child and creation. Have an amazing day in the Lord!

Psalms

In Psalm 9:1 David writes, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” This was written shortly after the death of David’s newborn son. Yet David found it right and proper to give God thanks and to tell others of His greatness! I know you are going through a difficult time, but God is in control and He has a plan. Today, God will give you 86,000 seconds as His gift to you. I challenge you to take 2 of those seconds and say, "Thank You, Lord" Have an amazing day!

Ever been afraid? David was being pursued by a large army of Philistines, and he was afraid! He wrote about his feelings in Psalm 56 in a prayer to God. What did he do when he was afraid? Verse 3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” In verse 11 he asks a great question, “What can man do to me?” The answer is nothing! Trust in God when you face fear. Have a fantastic day! I love you!

One of my favorite verses in scripture is Psalm 73:26 “My body and my mind may become weak, but God is my strength. He is mine forever.” This verse is great you athletes. In a game you get tired both physically and mentally, God will give you strength. The same goes for life. This verse has become more special to me since my diagnosis of Parkinson’s. My body is weak, but God is my strength, He lets me get out of bed each day. God will be with you, He is yours forever. Have an amazing day!


Psalm 119:9 “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.“ I pray daily that you stay pure, that you do not get caught up in the traps of life. But my prayers are not enough. You must do your part and the Psalmist says this is accomplished by living according to the Word of God. Is there dust on your Bible? I encourage you to get in the Word, read your Bible daily. The only way to live according to the Word is to know the Word. God bless you today!

Psalm 121:1" I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." What an awesome ttruth that the One who made the world is our source of help! So many times we want to fix the junk in our life on our own, but we have the One who made us as our source of help. If you want your phone fixed, who is best to fix it, you or the company who made the phone? Trust God! Have a blessed day!


Ps 122:1 “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord.’” Today is Sunday, I hope you go to church and worship. But do you HAVE to go to church today or do you GET to go to church today. Your attitude will determine your experience in worship. Enter worship today with a glad heart!! God bless!

Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way.” God made you an amazing and wonderful person. You are HIS creation and He loves you. Don’t let anybody tell you that you aren’t special. Don’t let anyone else define you or label you. You are a child of the King! Have a blessed day!

Proverbs
While at the doc’s office the other day, the nurse said, “I know you are in pain, why are you smiling?” I said, “Do you feel better because I am smiling?” To which she replied, “Yes, I do!” Let’s face it, a smiling face makes us feel better. Solomon knew this when he wrote in Proverbs 15:30 “A cheerful look brings joy to the heart” If you only smile when taking a selfie then you aren’t bringing joy to anyone’s heart. Smile today! Make someone feel good! I am hurting right now, but I am still smiling! God bless you today!


Proverbs 16:9 “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” There are so many things we may want to do in life. We can plan but without God our plans are worthless. Whatever you want to do, include God. Have a great day!

Prov 17:17 “A friend loves at all times…” Friends are great! A true friend knows your flaws, but loves you anyway. Think of this today, to have a true friend, you have to be a true friend. I consider you my friend and I am not ashamed to say that I love you friend. Share the love today with your friends! God bless your day!

Isaiah

In Isaiah's prophecy concerning Messiah, he calls Jesus "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Peace. Isn't that what we all want? Jesus is the Prince of Peace. This Christmas, with all the hustle and bustle, stop for a moment and realize your source of peace....Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas, God Bless you and I love you!


Lamentations

I have heard it many times. “I have made way too many mistakes for God to love me.” That simply isn’t true. In a little book in the OT we read , “ The faithful love of the Lord never ends. His mercies never cease.” (Lamentations 3:22 ) In other words, God’s love and mercy is bigger than all your mistakes combined. Today just know God loves you, mistakes and all. He only asks that you love Him back. Have a wonderful day!!

Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” For many this week or perhaps next, an activity known as “Sr Night” will take place. Some will cry, some won’t, some will feel sadness, some relief. What we all must understand is that life is full of stepping stones. Rather than seeing an activity as the “end” of something, see it as the next step to another. If we step with God, we need not fear any activity. God bless your Friday!!

Matthew

Matthew 5:16 "....let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." No matter what you do, whether a student, an athlete, a pizza maker, burger flipper or a preacher, be an example of how a Christian should live their lives. Not so people will say how good you are, but will give the honor to God because you are His child. Have a blessed day!!

Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." One of the most difficult things for humans to do is forgive. But look at what Jesus said could be the price of not forgiving others....God will not forgive you. That's a hefty price to pay to hold a grudge. When others wrong you, shake it off! Players gonna play, haters gonna hate, shake it off and forgive. Have a blessed Lord's Day!

Today is the last Sunday of 2014. This year has been full of ups and downs for me and I'm sure for you as well. Sometimes during those down times we tend to run from God when in fact it is during those times we need to run to God. Jesus said in Matt 11:28 " Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.". In those times of need run to Jesus and rest in His love. God bless

John

Jesus said in John 13:35 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” We often use “love” in many different ways. We love our significant other, we love our parents and we love pizza. All in many different ways of course. Jesus says we are to “love” one another. This love is a totally different love. It’s the love of God. So when I tell you I love you, I do! I love you with the Christian love that identifies us as brothers and sisters in Christ. Love one another! Don’t be afraid to say it! Have an awesome day! Always remember and don’t ever forget…I love you!

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Jesus knew we'd have trouble at times in this world. But how awesome is it that we can find peace in Him because He has overcome the world. Have an amazing day! Love ya!!


Romans

Romans 12: 15 “Share the happiness of those who are happy, the sorrow of those who are sad.16 …Don’t become snobbish but take a real interest in ordinary people.” We are to be people of compassion. Sharing each others joys and burdens. It might cost you time and social status, but never be ashamed to be a friend or of a friend. Compassion is more than , “I’m sorry.” Compassion says, “What can I do for you? How can I help?” It’s taking a call at 3am or going to someone’s house just because they need you. Be a compassionate friend. God bless!


Philippians

Phil 3:13b-14 "....Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Forgetting what is behind. That is so hard sometimes. But I'm convinced that God isn't so concerned about where you've been as He is about where you are going. Don't let Satan allow your past to define you. Don't drive through life focusing on the rear view mirror. You will wreck. God bless and have a wonderful day!!

Philippians 4: 6 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Don’t worry? But what about that pimple on my nose? Don’t worry? I don’t have a prom date! Don’t worry? That’s what Paul said, don’t worry Pray! Tell God what you need, He may not always say yes, but don’t worry because He knows what is best for you! And don’t forget to thank Him for all He’s done! Have a wonderful day!!

Most of us know Phil 4:13 by heart, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." But do we really know why Paul wrote those words? To understand we must look at the previous verses. In vs 11 Paul says, "i have learned the secret to being content." He then goes on to say he has been full and hungry, he has had everything and nothing, but the secret is contentment with what you have because Christ can get you through everything. As Christmas approaches, be content, don't be concerned with what you didn't get, be happy and feel blessed with what you do. God bless, love you!

I'm convinced that God isn't so concerned about where you've been as He is about where you are going, Don't let Satan bring up your past. As a Christian God has forgiven your past and is looking forward to how you can praise Him today and in he future. Paul wrote "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Phil 3:13-14

Phil 4:4 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" It's easy to rejoice when life is good isn't it? But we aren't told to only rejoice in the good times. We are told to rejoice ALWAYS. Even when things aren't going our way, we are to rejoice in the Lord. This morning it took me 15 minutes just to get out of bed because of Parkinson's. But I did get out of bed and for that I rejoice. Have a wonderful day! God bless you!

I Timothy

In 1 Tim 4:12 Paul tells his protege to not let anyone look down on him just because he is young. I feel young people have an incredible potential for God. I believe in you but you must also believe in yourself. Paul goes on to say that young people need to be examples for others in everything. Especially in your speech and in purity. Show others how awesome I know you are. God bless! Love ya!

James

James 1:22 “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” Listening to your coach, teacher, parents, etc is awesome, but listening is not enough. Your coach may tell you what to do in a certain situation, but if you don’t do what was said, you will let your team down. Knowing what the Bible says is not enough either, you must follow what it tells you do or you let God down. Don’t just read it, live it. Have a blessed day

James 4: 17 "Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." Most people want to avoid this verse. But it is so important. Don't think you can do nothing and that's alright. Doing nothing can often be worse than doing something. If you know what's right but decide to ignore it, you've disappointed someone and God. Have a wonderful day!!

I John

I John 4: 7 “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.” Today is Valentine’s Day. A day we use to celebrate love. The day will be celebrated by some, hated by others, depending on your relationship status. Regardless, my challenge today is to think about God’s love for us. I John 4:9 tells us how God showed His love for us, the sacrifice of Jesus. Because of this we can have eternal life. Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you!


I John 4:9 "God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him." Wow! God loves you so much He sent Jesus to die for you! That means you are extremely special to God! You are His child! Don't let anyone else make you feel like you are nothing. You are a child of the King! God bless! Love ya!!!

Friendship is Not for the Weak

Proverbs 20:6Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable?

Do you have a lot of friends? Some people claim to have hundreds of friends, some even thousands. I just looked on my Facebook page (yes, I still have Facebook) and it says I have 2,325 friends. I am here to tell you that I don't have that many friends. I might know that many people, but many are acquaintances, not true friends.

If you are receiving this devotion today however, I consider you a friend. A loyal friend in fact and I thank God for you daily. Many of you are young, much younger than I, but who says old people can't be friends with young people and vice versa? I learn a great deal from you all. In recent weeks I have learned what "swag" is, I have been introduced to Snap Chat (preacherfig if you want to add me), I have learned I have a "strong selfie game," but more importantly I have a revived hope in your generation. You all have given me a great deal of confidence that our world is not as bad as some want to think. Thank you for being my friend.

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A friend is a treasure. True friends can tell each other things no other can. Solomon says in Proverbs 12:26 "The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray." Be a godly friend. Your true friends deserve that.

Here is my challenge for the day. There is no school so you have plenty of time. I want you to text, snap, email, DM, IM, however you wish and tell some of your closest friends you are thankful for them and why. Don't take friendship for granted. The best way to keep a friend is to be a friend who shows appreciation. I have learned over the past few months how important friends are. Most of you I have really only gotten to know or really gotten closer to since August. On August 8th I made a decision to help as many young people as possible and to be their friend. I know to some it is weird to have an old codger like me want to be friends with young folk like you. But God has given me the ability to relate to you in a way some adults just can't. I have had friends in their teens since I was a teen. Being a camp dean I have hundreds of friends your age. I don't see it as weird, I see it as a blessing. As a matter of fact, my best friend in the whole world is your age. Weird? Not to us. It's a blessing from God.

Remember the challenge for the day! Tell your friends you care and why. I will be doing that later today myself. Expect a text.

I love you all dear friends, God bless and have a great day off from school and be careful in the snow.

Social Media and the High School Athlete

Unless you have had your head under a rock for the past few years,  you have a Twitter account,  Instagram, maybe even holding on to a Facebook account to keep up with a grandma.  You know everything there is to know about social media, right?  Well, maybe not. 

In a recent study conducted by the National Association of College Admission Counseling it was revealed that “Social media outlets have influenced the way that the current generation of graduating high school students communicates, gathers knowledge and makes decisions. Therefore, social media has also influenced the way that admission offices recruit and potentially select students.”  (National Associaton for Colege Admission Counselors, 2009) Catch those last 3 words, potentially select students.  No laws currently prohibit private universities from using applicants’ verified social media profiles as criteria for admission.  And no laws prohibit any institution from using search engines to find you on the net.

“Students’ social media and digital footprint can sometimes play a role in the admissions process,” says Christine Brown, the executive director of K-12 and college prep programs at Kaplan Test Prep. “It’s something that is becoming more ubiquitous and less looked down upon.”  (Singer, 2013)  In other words, be careful what you tweet if you want to go to college. 

This is especially true if you want to be a college athlete.    Many college coaches in America now ask for your twitter information when the recruiting process begins.  You may think they want to follow you so that they can let you know of certain events coming up.  What they are doing is checking up on you.  So you think you can just erase any embarrassing tweets?  Wrong.  There are many services out there than can track every tweet you’ve ever sent.  Just because you delete it, doesn’t mean it goes away.

Let’s get straight to the point.  YOU chose to be a student athlete at your school.  With that choice comes a responsibility:  to represent your school in a positive way.  The name across the front of your jersey is not just the name of the team, it is every student, teacher , janitor, administrator, etc at that school.  Don’t disgrace them by having twitter fights or using inappropriate language on social media sites.  Don’t post pics that might lead to hurt feelings or that you know will draw negative attention to you or your team.  Sometimes what you may consider a joke isn’t funny to anyone but you.

How embarrassing would it be if the school you wanted to attend told you that your academics are great, your skills are awesome, but you aren’t the type of person they want on their team or on their campus  because of your Twitter profile?

 Here are some guidelines I suggest for you:

1.  Think before you post.  Is this something I would want my grandmother or preacher to see? 

2.  Never post in anger.  You WILL REGRET a post made in anger at some point in your life.

3.   Remember everything you post is public information.   Whatever you put out there is beyond your control once it is sent. 

4.  What you post will affect your future, whether in the academic or career world.  Employers are using your posts to determine if you are the type person they want working for them as well.

5.  You are establishing your identity though social media.  How you talk, how you are dressed in pictures, what you send in SnapChats, all of these areas, fairly or unfairly, define who you are to many people who don’t truly know you, but think they do by how you represent yourself in social media.

From a purely spiritual stand point, I have been disappointed many times by what I have seen from youth group members at the church where I minister, FCA members, campers from the church camp where I Dean and just young people I thought I knew, but their social media profile was much different than how they represented themselves to me.  If you call yourself a Christian, you are representing  your church and your Lord.  Even on social media.

References:

National Associaton for Colege Admission Counselors. (2009). Social Media: Considerations and Implications in College Admission. Research to Practice .

Singer, N. (2013, November 9). They Loved Your G.P.A. Then They Saw Your Tweets. New York Times .

Compassion

I am concerned that we have lost our compassion.  Too many times we are too concerned about ourselves and less concerned about others.  Yet Paul said in Romans 12: ^15 “Share the happiness of those who are happy, the sorrow of those who are sad.¹⁶ …Don’t become snobbish but take a real interest in ordinary people.”  

We are to be people of compassion.  Sharing each others joys is easy, sometimes.  Sometimes when something good happens to others however, we get jealous.  Sharing burdens can be more difficult..  That might cost you time and maybe even some social status.Paul says to not be ashamed of being a friend with anyone.  If you have a friend who others may not approve of, don't be ashamed if that person is a true friend. Never be ashamed to be a friend or of a friend.  

Compassion is more than , “I’m sorry.” Compassion says, “What can I do for you?  How can I help?” It’s taking a call at 3am or going to someone’s house just because they need you. Compassion is not selfish.  Compassion says, "I am here no matter the circumstances, no matter how long it takes, no matter what it is you need me to do."  Compassion is more than telling someone you will pray for them, it's praying with them,  Whether in person or by phone. Don't dismiss a problem no matter how small you think it is.  There might be more to the story.  Go the extra mile.  If you text me and tell me you are in need of anything, I promise you I will do whatever you need if it is as all possible.

 Be a compassionate friend.  I challenge you today to tell a friend that they are special to you and that if they need you, no matter what, you are there.  We all have fiends that others are wondering, "Why are you their friend?"  Tweet that friend, not direct message, tweet them and tell them you are glad you are friends.  Let others see you are not ashamed to be friends with someone different than you.  I realize this might be difficult, but think what that might do for someone else.  I guarantee it will bring a smile to their face and joy to their heart.  That would be worth any ridicule you might encounter.

God bless you today!  

A Change in Perspective

Deuteronomy 4:9 “But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live!"

Life changed for me forever on August 8, 2014.  That day I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. (PD)   I was 47, PD is for old people, or so I thought.  After the initial shock wore off, I decided that this disease was not going to define me.  I decided that God had a purpose behind this whole situation and I was going to find a way to honor Him through the whole situation.

One of the main changes I made in my life was a change in perspective.  Life, to me, WAS a series of events.  Days that led into weeks, that led into months, etc.  Now, life, to me, IS a vehicle for memories.  A laugh from my grandson Mason.  Broadcasting ball games with my son Tucker.  A dinner date with my daughter Tori.  Dinner and a show with my wife Tina.  A text from wonderful people who care about me.  A church service with a wonderful church family.  A snowy morning on Radio Hill.  Talking with student athletes before and after a game.  Interacting with wonderful coaches and players.  Visiting schools to see kids from church.  All of these events make up life and add to memories.

We all take pictures of important events.  Newborn babies, graduation, prom, homecoming, Senior Night, birthday parties, weddings, etc.  Why?  To remember.  They add to our memories.  But life is an important event.  The people we come in contact with daily are important too.  Someone knew this because they invented a vehicle for us to share those memories.  It's called Instagram.  Think about it, IG is a way for us to share our memories with others.  Daily memories.  A history of our lives in pictures.

Since my diagnosis I have been taking pictures like crazy.  One person dear to me told my I had a strong "selfie game" and she was right!  Why?  Memories.  I don't want to forget those closest to me.  So I take pictures with them for that purpose.  So if you are out and about and I ask you for a "selfie" please know why.  Sometimes I am reluctant to ask because I am not sure of your feelings about taking  a pic with an old codger!  I realize it could be embarrassing.  So if you see me out and about, ask me for a pic.  I will never say no to that request.  I want to preserve as many memories as possible.  

My change in perspective has given me a wonderful new outlook on life.  I challenge you to not see life as a day at school, a week of testing, but as a life of memories.  God bless and have a wonderful day!!