Christ Magnified in My Body

We have been studying the book of Philippians on Wednesday evenings for the past couple of months. We are looking at it one chapter at a time and answering the following 5 questions:
1. What do I like/dislike about this chapter?
2. What do I not understand about this chapter?
3. What do I see about the nature of God in this chapter?
4. What lessons do I want to take from this chapter?
5. How is my life going to change because of this chapter?

Last night we reviewed the entire chapter and I was reminded about my conviction when we studied chapter 1. In verses 19 and following Paul states,

"For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain..."

Firstly, we need the prayers of others and it is imperative that we are praying for others. For our prayers to be most effective, we need to be in close relationship with God and with each other. You don't need me to pray that God will "help you" or "be with you." He already will and is. You need me to be praying specifically for your needs; for your faith to be strong; for you to be aware of the spiritual blessings awaiting you when your trial is over; for you to be open to how you can bless my life and others' when you have overcome.

Secondly, the supply that comes from the Spirit is more than adequate. Jesus didn't say in John 15 and 16 that he was sending a Helper incapable of fulfilling His purpose of guidance. Paul says later in Philippians 4:19 that God will supply all of our need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Thirdly, Paul's expectation and hope (expectant desire) was to proclaim Jesus as His Christ and that is the reason the prayers of his friends and the Spirit's supply would be effective in delivering him from prison (he was converting his captors in the palace guard.) His hope resulted in him boldly proclaiming Jesus in word but as he says in verse 20, that he also lived Jesus.

When people heard and watched Paul, they saw Jesus. Paul allowed Jesus to be magnified in his life and if need be in his death. Living, for Paul, was Christ. His purpose and reason for being was to testify to the gospel of God's grace (Acts 20:24.) Christ in Paul's life was evident. There was no question who Paul followed and patterned his life after.

When people see me, I wonder sometimes who they see, or better yet, Who they don't see. When I am faced with a situation when I am called to stand up for my belief, I fail to boldly stand up and confess my belief. The ways I react to various situations that make my life inconvenient are telling of the level of my faith. Sometimes, instead of magnifying Christ in my body, I suppress Him. I need the prayers of my brothers and sisters, I need to be praying for my brothers and sisters. Both invite the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ and as I am earnestly expecting and hoping for God to dwell in me, Jesus will be magnified. When I try to magnify myself, I may fool some people. I may even fool myself for a short time, but when my goal is to show Jesus to the world by my lifestyle and life, living is Christ. It is this kind of living that makes dying gain. Any other kind of selfish living offers no gain when death visits.

When I make my goal to magnify Christ in my body, I begin to see things like He sees them. My view of people changes. Instead of the physical person, I see a soul. If I don't know them, I would engage conversation to determine the state of that soul. If I do know them, and know they do not have a relationship with God through Jesus, I would invite them to study. When I magnify Christ in my body, the way I lead my family will change. My goals for life will change. My perspective of money will change. My relationships will change.

I could ramble on further, but I have to work on our zero-based budget for Saturday. Right now it is a "below-zero-based" budget. Jack, our minister has said often. "Studying the Bible is not primarily about me studying the Bible, but about me allowing the Bible to study me." When I let the Bible study my life, I am more able to see where I need to change instead of me trying to change the Bible to fit with how I believe or how I am living.

I am thankful Paul wrote the letter to the church in Philippi. We get to study Colossians next. It just keeps getting better!

Financial Peace #2

Well, we have had one class of Financial Peace University and we have already learned some new words; "It's not in the budget." We already knew those words because we had no budget for them to be in. At least not a written budget where every penny coming in for the month was given a name and told where to go before the month began. We are hoping to indocrinate the kids in this new mindset and I think it is catching on already. The other day I needed to buy a USA Today (Prepaid Legal Services was featured on the front page of the Money section; I will be happy to share it with you if you want, just let me know (John)) and when I got back in the van, Anna Clair said loudly, "Hey, that's not in the budget!"

We ate at a new restaurant in Ashville tonight. It's not too often a new restaurant becomes available in Ashville. Except for the one restaurant that keeps changing names or when one of the pizza shops puts up a new sign, (Stewey's Pizza, then Mike's Pizza). They can sure come up with some fancy names for pizza joints can't they? Anyway, the new place tonight we enjoyed was called "Ehlo's". Now you pronounce that just like you would say it if you put the letter 'L' and the letter 'O' together. The food was tasty and the atmosphere was pleasant. The place was decorated in a familiar Mary Engelbreit pattern of bright colors and lots of cherries. I came to find out that "Ehlo's" was in fact the letter 'L' and the letter 'O' put together and it stands for leftovers. That Dave Ramsey and his Financial Peace University!!

I think we will be amazed at how much frivilous spending we do every month when we sit down and tell the money where to go. We will implement the envelope system next week and will be forced to spend only the money designated for certain things. There will be a blow envelope but I have a feeling that at the beginning we won't be blowing anything. I will keep you posted on how we are doing. Dave walks us through the Baby Steps (there are 7 of them.) We have just about got the first one done and then will begin on the debt snowball. If anyone is interested in a fine, black, 2002 Honda Accord with a sunroof, let me know.

I am thankful that God has brought this into our lives and I know that He will bless our efforts.

Financial Peace

I remember while living in Tennessee listening to WWTN radio and hearing Dave Ramsey's "The Money Game". It is an entertaining financial advice radio show where people call in asking questions regarding the mess their finances are in and Dave offers suggestions for how they might best deal with the situation. He is entertaining and right on the money (no pun intended) most of the time. He explains otherwise boring information in easy-to-understand terms. Dave offers what he calls "Financial Peace University" where he teaches either in a seminar format or on video over a longer period of time, the principles needed to eliminate debt and to save money. He admits that most of his information has been around for many years and is quite simple, but he delivers it in a new way. Most of the people who graduate from FPU eliminate, on average, about $5,300 in debt and save about $2,700 in just 91 days. He teaches budgeting and uses the envelope system which forces you to stick to a budget and use cash for purchases.

Jack, our minister at Circleville, is a certified trainer and we are going through the classes now. Our first class was on Saturday. It is exciting to dream of being debt free and scary at the same time because it will require a change in our behavior and lifestyle. Dave says that you have to get a little crazy and maybe sell some things, which may make the kids think they will be sold next. He also teaches how to teach children about money and how to handle it so that they will learn to handle it and not be handled by money.

I am thankful that God's word has much to say about money and our stewardship of it. I pray that many will benefit from the information in the class and that Jodi and I will grow because of it.

Another Reunion

Well, time has again flown by and left my blogspot a little stale. It seems that I have good intentions but the clock has other ideas. Is it a commitment problem? I don't think so. I am just so busy and don't have the schedule of a "preacher".

This week in Bible class on Wednesday, we were studying from Philippians chapter 1. I was reminded of an episode from 11 years ago that gave me a new perspective of verse 21-25. For me to live is Christ and die is gain (vs 21). Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith... (vs24-25).

If I am alive and haven't passed from this life, my life is Christ. Colossians 1:27 says, "To them God willed to make known the what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." Colossians 3:3-4 says, "For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory."

My mission and purpose is to display the character of Jesus in my life so that others may come to know Him through me. As we stated in class on Wednesday, it would be greater to depart and be with God. Paul knew though that his continuing to live was more needful for those he would teach. You never know who will need you in this life. We should always be preparing ourselves to enrich others' lives and be looking for opportunities to share Christ with them. If I am still alive, it is more needful for someone else that I am here. I must not neglect my service as a child of God.

I recall a 95 year old Christian lady in the nursing home. She very much wanted to depart and see her husband and be with the Lord. She would ask me nearly daily, "Why am I still here?" I would answer her that the other residents needed her. It was her custom to walk around the home, barely able to use a walker, and tell everyone she met, "Jesus loves you and I love you. I hope you are having a great day!" I told her that is why she was there. She would shake her head yes and longlingly look out the window.

Paul states in 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy." What a wonderful picture! When Jesus comes again and we all come into His glorious presence, we will see those whose lives we enriched, and those who enriched our lives with spiritual blessing. It is indeed a sobering thought.

I am thankful for those who have enriched my faith. Maybe some of them longed to depart and be with Jesus, but felt the need to remain and tend to mine and others' faith first. May I do the same.

The Right Equipment

I have been where he was. I sensed his discomfort. The uneasy laugh, indicating his frustration and his embarrassment, unsure which was greater. He was alone and none of the rest of us had the nerve to assist him. There really wasn't anything we could do. The aisle was pretty much empty though to him, everyone in WalMart was staring at him. Yes, he had the dreaded task of finding the right equipment. Sent on the errand for, more than likely, only one thing. That explained the few "odds and ends" that were spread in his cart. (He had to have something to hide the equipment.) I wanted to at least walk by him, a silent pat on the back, a nod of the head to let him know I was there with him but that was all I could offer. The first pass we made I heard him declare in desperation to the cell phone against his ear, and I quote, "There is one that says it has wings!?" I ushered Jodi out of the aisle as quickly as I could just to give him the needed privacy. She was giggling. I don't know if she was giggling more at him or thinking of me when I was performing the deed not so long ago. About 10 minutes later, we passed the aisle again and he was still standing there, defeated, shaking head hung low, holding two soft-sided boxes in either hand. Jodi informed me that she had seen him in the interim and said that he had hung up the phone once, for now the phone was up again, the poor soul trying to get the information that would allow him to walk proudly out of that aisle, task completed. Whether he ever made it home successfully last night, I do not know. He could have purchased about 5 different kinds just to be safe and made it home without the right one. Which leads me to a question. Why don't the women just shop for these things by themselves? Is there a secret camera in those aisles recording for the next reality TV show? I admire those men who leap out there in that realm where they know for certain, if they do succeed, they have embarrassed themselves beyond repair. Yet, we continue to go there and put ourselves through it because we love our women. I just hope that guy's wife said "thank you" when he got home. I hope he used it to build his relationship with his wife and he allowed his frustration to subside before he got home. His day was no better if he didn't return with the right attitude or the right equipment. I applaud us all!

I have waited 5 plus years for what happened yesterday evening. Jodi had a jewelry show (not what I am talking about), Anna Clair stayed at the show and played with her cousin, so Levi and I had the evening to do whatever we wanted. And what we wanted was to play our first round of golf together, just the two of us. At least that is what I wanted to do and when I asked Levi if he wanted to he responded with a resounding "YES!!!!" So with my golf bag on my shoulder and Levi carrying his only club, a 7 iron, like a gun (he is still only 5) we headed for Upper Lansdowne Golf Club just east of Ashville.

We began on hole number 1 and quickly found that a Thursday evening with 75 degree temperatures brings out all kinds of folks wishing they were golfers. The wait on some holes was excruciating as we had maybe just enough time to complete 18 holes without needing night vision goggles to see the balls coming up the 18th fairway. Now don't get me wrong, I am glad that anyone enjoys the game of golf but if you are going to play in the evening time at least be in a little hurry; at least be ready when your partner hits the ball, you already have your club chosen and you are on the tee box ready to tee off. I am also happy for the females to play golf, but please don't take 1 minute to address a ball that you then dribble off the tee 30 yards to the right. And please don't re-tee another ball that you have to go back to the cart to get and proceed to dribble 30 yards to the left so that now you have to take extra time to retrieve because at least the first one you hit isn't stuck under a tree. And please don't wear black running shorts trimmed in white and a tee-shirt to the golf course. If you do and I am behind you, I may just hit a ball past you onto the green on the 3rd hole. I did. It was a short par 4 (265 yards) and instead of waiting 27 minutes for them to clear the green I went ahead and teed off with my 3 wood, taking a lazy swing just trying to lay up short of the green. I forgot to take into account the tail wind and as soon as I struck the ball I thought to myself, "Uh-oh. I think that might hit them." It missed by about 15 feet. It is a good thing they weren't my uncle or I would have been dodging the ball coming back at me.

After that, I decided that I was going to enjoy this special time with Levi. We talked about him getting his own clubs. He wants one of the fat ones (driver) and the putt (putter). Levi also had started imitating my comments about how long the twosome in front of us were taking to play. So we just enjoyed the company and the scenery and I enjoyed quality and quantity time with a very special boy. I let him tee off on most of the holes and he just started walking up the fairway saying, "I'll just meet you up there." I looked back to watch him and he was hitting the ball fairly well. He would make it up to the green and he would drop the ball in the fringe and then hit it toward the flag. He would then come and get my putter and then put it toward the hole. After about 6 putts he would announce, "Another birdie! I am beating you Daddy!" He even informed me that he made an eagle.

The back nine went much more smoothly as most of the patrons were only playing 9 holes. When we made it to the 18th green and putted out, I told him that at the end of a good round of golf, we needed to shake hands like they do on TV and say, "nice round." So when he finished putting out, we shook hands and exchanged words and then I gave him a kiss. What a special time. Hopefully we have many more such occasions to enjoy a relaxing round of golf. The way we were both playing last night, he will probably legitimately beat me when he is about 10 or 12 years old.

I am thankful that we had the evening and were able to spend that time together. If we never play another round of golf together, I was blessed enough. Whatever it is you and your sons or daughters like to do together, just the two of you, I say do it and build memories and seal the bond you have. Life is too short to take them for granted or to miss the opportunities. Create your legacy today based on a spiritual foundation and pass it on so that when your children step up on it and develop their own, they will find themselves on a solid foundation. God knew what He was doing when He gave us children. Honor His gift by how you handle them.

DCI

Wow! What a fantastic show last night at Crew Stadium as we watched the DCI "Artistry in Motion" spectacular. The seats were great, 40 yard line 20 rows up; perfect spot to see the intricate marching maneuvers, hear the blast from the horns, and to feel the beat of the drums. One of my fondest memories of high school is marching band. We, of course, never reached the level of the drum corps but we did have a great time performing our routines and exciting a Friday evening home crowd. Everyone had a great time; even the children were obedient to the lady in front of us and to my knowledge left her seat unmolested the whole show. It is a good thing one of them didn't accidently rub her seat or Sally may have been spending the evening in the Franklin Co. jail on charges of misdemeanor assault.

As I reflect on the show last night and endeavor to draw a spiritual application, I can only think of the amazing harmony and the rightness that occurs when a group of people from different walks of life, with differing talents, each do their task to the best of their ability with the end goal to give their all for the common goal of perfection. They don't always reach their potential, but they try.

I am beginning to see the church this way. I think that is what God intended. Every member has certain talents that will help complete the body when these talents are utilized effectively and with the whole heart engaged. We fail to often when many in the body fail to put forth their required amount of effort, however little or great that effort be. John wrote about a month ago or so about the desire to glorify God in all we do and I think that will help us to see others differently and may even allow us access to them to help them desire to serve God more and will help them serve Him better. It is a way we can help to change the hearts of Christians. Talking about how little some do amongst ourselves will never change them.

How God must shudder when there is dissonance among the church because many choose to not fulfill their purpose and do their work. How He must wonder when those who do work to fulfill their purpose speak lowly of those who won't. I know I have trouble with this but I resolve to work on it so that the praise we offer to God as Christians will sound so much better than the music we heard last night.

I am trying to get back in the swing of things this week and I hope to share some of the highlights of church camp from last week and the reunion from the first of June. It never ceases to amaze me just how quickly time passes. Jodi said Wednesday that summer passes more quickly that the cold months. Even the colder months are flying by for me.

I am thankful that God gave us the church and that He put in place the plan to reconcile all men to Him. I am thankful for the cross and the forgiveness, hope, and promise I have because of it. May you have a great day.

Aaaaahhhh! That was a nice nap. Unfortunately for those of you who just can't wait to read what I have to say, (I know you are out there) you will have to wait at least another week. It seems the month of June has need of about 60 days this year to accomodate my schedule. I promise that when I return from a week of camp (provided I don't get strung up the flagpole with my underwear still in place) I will update.

My parents were visiting mid-week at the end of May and on Saturday we went to Williamstown for a reunion at Riverside church of Christ. We went right into getting things ready for VBS and then we have been preparing for our week at Fort Hill this week. Work has been busy and time has slipped away. I promise an entertaining report from all of these when I get back.

Levi is at Grandmom and Papaw's this week and he is excited. He is going fishing with Papaw "everyday" if he has anything to do with it. Roger told us when we dropped him off that Levi thinks he (Roger) is on vacation too. Levi has expectation of going for doughnuts every morning and fishing. He is excited about getting to see J play baseball on Tuesday. I sure am going to miss him this week. We will have no cell phone coverage in the sticks of Hillsboro, Ohio. We look forward to a good week sharing the wonder of Jesus with young people. Pray for our success, our safety, and our mission to demonstrate God's love to them.

Thank You For Your Service!

To all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and have given the last full measure:

We owe a debt of gratitude beyond measure for your service to this country; to your belief in the ideal that all men are created equal and that freedom must ring throughout the world. Our lives today are a testament to your sacrifice. Your bravery, dedication, and diligence secured for us a greater America. You forsook comfort, security, and family to defend and blaze a trail of freedom. You were called by an era to become more than you thought you could be. Many of you viewed British fleets. Some of you saw the barrels of German tanks. Others have faced hidden guerillas and terrorists. You have all looked into the eyes of evil and not blinked. You stood in formation, jumped in fox holes, forded jungles, and walked streets, creating a climate of cooperation for the common good to sustain our freedom.

Your selflessness may have cost you your life, but it endures today, a beacon continuously lighting the way to hope; hope for peace, hope for harmony, hope for something better. Hope! All Americans and freedom-loving people around the globe keep your memory alive. The spark ignited 231 years ago lives today. You instill pride. You inspire honor. You encourage valor. May we never forget or ignore you, allowing the flame to extinguish. May we all recognize our own required sacrifice to carry on what began and has continued in you. We all should serve such.

Thank you for your service!

Levi's Antics-The Spiritual Application

I still have the ability to jump over a fence without killing myself and climb a tree without slipping and breaking my leg. I thought that was self explanatory. Sorry for the two slow ones who read the last post.

The spiritual application is obvious. God, our Father, is always there to pick us up and love us. Even when the predicament in which we find ourselves may be of our own making. When we make dumb mistakes and choices, God will be there when we cry for Him. He doesn't blame or tell us how dumb we are. He does want us to learn from those mistakes and is always willing to hold us and tend to our needs. I am struck by the fact that in both of the incidences described, Levi cried and called for his father. I am more struck by the fact that I would immediately forget all I was doing to run to him to comfort and ensure he was physically ok.

More than that, I am concerned that his and Anna Clair's spiritual conditions are what they need to be. My aim is to teach and model for them the proper character. I fail at times but my prayer is that they are learning more from what I do right than what I fail to do.

Levi's Antics

We have been busy with ball and work and Relay for Life and a host of other things. I just have time for two quick stories of antics Levi has provided this week.

First, we took the kids to Relay for Life Friday evening and was to be there until noon Saturday. We left at 7:00 AM as our team made up about half of the entire relay at that point. Of the 15 or so teams that began the evening on Friday, most left. Maybe it was the 37 degree temperature. The kids made it until about 2:30 AM but went in the tent and snuggled inside warm sleeping bags. We adults froze to death in our "comfortable" lawn chairs. Anyway, Levi was passing ball with a college student from church and threw the ball over the 8 foot fence. The only way to get it was to walk around the fence. While Danny walked around, Levi decided he could scale the fence and beat him to the ball. I was about 25 feet away talking when I looked up and saw Levi laying on the other side of the fence and then I heard him crying hysterically. I proceeded to take my camera from my neck and lay it down, sprint to the fence and hurdle over it. I don't know if I even touched it. My concern was that this was an old fence with the barbs at the top. After crying for 15 minutes and finding no sign of injury except a scrape on his chin, I asked him what he was thinking. He didn't realize that the ground was so far away from the top of the fence. Those watching were very impressed with how quickly I made it over the fence. I still got it.

Yesterday I was changing clothes to go to AC's ball game when I hear the neighbor girl holler for me. She said, "Come and get your son." Then I heard the hysterical crying again. I went across the street and found Levi about 15 feet up in a tree barefooted and stuck. He was frantic. I quickly scaled the tree and grabbed him before he let go and fell. When we were walking back home I asked him why he climbed the tree. He said the other kids told him to. What!? The kids were impressed with how quickly I climbed the tree seemingly without effort. What they don't know won't hurt them.

Levi is starting out early this summer in being a boy. I look forward to many such antics. Hopefully neither of us end up in the ER.

Disposable World

I didn't realize that I hadn't published in more than two weeks until I read John's only somewhat humorous comment about my blog rivaling Gettysburg itself in age.

I was talking to a lady at work today who is spending her second visit to Scioto in the past year. She has been demonstrating some cognitive deficits and I was asked to see her to help her get back on track. As we visited today, I was attempting to orient her to where she is and the date, etc. As I talked about the date today, I noticed her eyes reddening and watering. When I inquired as to what was bothering her, she stated that she was aware of the date and that tomorrow will be the 3rd anniversary of her husband's death. They were married 62 years. Our discussion followed many paths but we settled on the fact that we live in a 'disposable world'. Those are her words and I tend to agree with her. She mentioned that growing up in the 30's and 40's that they just didn't waste anything and that nothing was disposable. She wasn't speaking of the physical things you buy at the store. She spoke of the moral value system under which the world operated. She stated that divorce was a dirty word. I told her I know people my age who are already on their third marriage. I know people who don't value any relationship and feel they are an island. Ashamedly, I am, at times, not much different. We continued our conversation and decided that without faith in God and without being ready when Jesus comes again, a person has no hope.

Because of the cross of Jesus and what that means, life for a Christian is full of hope and promise, even in the midst of a crooked and depraved generation. How important is it that Christian parents teach and model the proper behavior? We must carry greater influence on our children than the world, lest they learn that things and people are disposable.

Levi & Gettysburg

For some reason over the past year, Levi has been fascinated by the movie "Gettysburg". I will come home from work and he will greet me with, "Daddy, I watched the Gettysburg movie without you today. Two times." On Tuesday and Thursday, Levi doesn't have school so he is home alone with Jodi. He will wake up and want to watch the movie. He will set up his "Gettysburg" army men and any other little action figure he can find and creat a battlefield in the living room. He plays army for the duration of the movie. It is amazing the details he remembers. He wants to take a trip to Gettysburg to see the cannon. I think I will take him this summer.

I came home one day and he had his cowboy hat on his head and his gun holster around his waist. I said, "Hey cowboy!" He stopped, looked at me and stated, "Daddy, I'm not a cowboy, I'm General Buford." General John Buford was the Federal cavalry officer who held off the Confederate army on the first day of the battle.

He said the other day that he watched the movie while I was working but only got to the part when they were in the trees. I wasn't sure which part he meant so he explained a little more plainly, "I got to the part where Colonel Chamberlain was running down the hill." The 20th Maine Regiment held Little Round Top on Day 2 of the battle.

I picked him up from baseball practice last week and was taking him to Anna Clair's school music program. Jodi had gone earlier and taken Anna Clair. On the way to the school I asked Levi if Jodi had fed them supper. He, without missing a beat, said, "Momma's trying to break me and Anna Clair by not feeding us. (Pause) We ain't broke yet." You may remember when the other Maine regiment was being brought to the 20th Maine, they were mutineers and the spokesman told Colonel Chamberlain that very line, "They are trying to break us by not feeding us..."

I am excited that Levi is expressing such an interest in something historical. I hope he continues this journey and lives his life looking back to history to help him live each day the best that he can. A thought, maybe I will try to get him interested in the history of golf. Then he and I can take a trip to St. Andrew's. Mmmm.

I am thankful that Levi has chosen things that he and I can do together. As close as we are now, sharing time doing things together (baseball, basketball, history, etc.) will solidify that relationship and allow it to flourish. As great as these things are and will be, I also enjoy the times spent in spiritual conversations with him now and I look forward to seeing his faith grow. The blessing is that for the Christian, all things are seen through spiritual eyes.

Faith Exhibited

As you may know, we have a couple of people at Circleville who are battling health issues today. I would like you to pray for these people and their families. Hank Rife is at Lancaster hospital fighting cancer and related ailments from the chemotherapy. His family is struggling with his illness. He went to the doctor about 3 months ago with a back ache and has since been diagnosed with cancer. Hank told me a few days ago that all he can do is trust in God. Also, Art Taylor is in Riverside hospital scheduled for surgery on his stomach 4/24. They may have to remove about 2/3 of his stomach. He has struggled for about one and a half years being unable to digest food and throwing up. He also has a great spiritual perspective.

There are times that I just take things for granted. It is a joy for me to visit with people like Hank and Art because they are good examples for me. They have allowed the blessings of God throughout their lives to train them to rely on these blessings when the trials come. I am reminded of Paul's words in Philippians 4:4-7

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Aren't you thankful for the peace of God? Aren't you glad it is there to guard your heart and mind? Isn't spiritual rejoicing much better than worldly anxiety?

Baseball

With the start of the baseball season a couple of weeks ago and our maiden voyage into youth baseball this spring, I recalled this essay I penned 2 years ago this summer. My perspective has changed only a little now that Anna Clair and Levi are playing but it is still about the fun. I know that it looks like Marty and Joe will both be gone soon; how things change. I hope you enjoy the post.

The Game on the Sandlot

I used to hear the old men talk about their days on the sandlot. They spoke of the anticipation of endless summer days playing baseball. They didn’t need 18 guys to play; they could field 2 teams with only 4. They styled their game from the one their heroes played: Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Joe Dimaggio, Robin Roberts, Hank Aaron. There is something about baseball that gets inside of the young boy who will let it. It takes root and creates a special place deep inside. This is true of any era; for me it was Johnny Bench, Pete Rose, and the rest of the Big Red Machine. The result is a lifelong fascination and now I, as one of the “old men” find myself recalling my own days on the sandlot.
In a day when many young boys would rather watch TV or sit in front of computer animated games, it was refreshing to hear the ping of the aluminum bat from the yard behind our house. I, as the “old man” sat on the patio with my eyes closed just listening to the sounds, losing myself in nostalgia. It was as if Mikey, Tommy, Eddie, John, Scott, Kenny, and me had made a triumphant return to childhood.
It was a beautiful day for baseball. A deep azure sky spotted with a few wispy clouds was overhead. The sounds of the airplane engine’s roar and the distant train whistle did not interfere. A slight breeze offered a welcome relief from the afternoon sunshine. A certain familiarity was present: “He was out of the baseline!” “No I wasn’t!” “Stay on base, he’s holding the ball!” “I should have dove and got him out.” “What’s the count blue?” “Ghost runner on third.”
I am brought back to the year 2005 by the ring tone on one of the boys’ cell phones. The game was halted. In my day someone’s sister showed up with a message from Mom that it was time to eat dinner; now they just call on the cell phone. I don’t want to complain too much because, hey, they are still playing the game of baseball on the sandlot. It’s a far cry from the business-driven Big Leagues. For these young boys it’s still a game. I don’t watch as many games or listen to Marty and Steve call the Reds game as often (Joe has since retired), but I must say the seed planted 30 years ago is still inside and I plan on planting it in my 3-year old son. I purchased him his first real baseball glove this week, a black leather one just like mine. “I love my new mitten Daddy.” He doesn’t always catch the ball and it doesn’t always go exactly where he throws it. He doesn’t always hit it either; but he is learning it’s more about the fun to be had with 2 people in the backyard with a baseball. I think I’ll go over to the sandlot behind the house and water those seeds. I’ll tell them to keep playing the game and to never forget it’s more about the fun. I’ll tell them that 30 years from now, all they will be able to remember is the fun.

Easter a Day Late

The Easter story is one of life; the life of Jesus the Christ, the Savior of the world. Following His crucifixion and death, He was placed in a tomb. As He foretold, He rose from the grave, His life returning to Him. We read in Scripture of His appearance to many disciples and ultimately of His ascension back to the Father. There is no doubt, He was alive again. He was breathing. He was hungry and ate. He grew tired and slept. He was full of life. He is full of life.

The Easter story is one of life; the promise of abundant life on earth for every person who accepts the gift of life ushered by the life of Jesus; and of the eternal life in heaven reserved for the faithful. The Christian life is impossible without Jesus sacrificing His life. The blessing of the Christian life is that Christ lives in us and we share in His life, His death, and His resurrection.

"I am crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Gal. 2:20

"...that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness which comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection of the dead." Phil. 3:8-10

"Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
Rom. 6:4

The story of Easter is of Jesus' resurrection from a physical death. However, without His birth, message, cross, death, and burial, His resurrection has no power. Without His birth, message, cross, death, and burial, my hope in resurrection holds no promise.

As a Christian, I remember the death of Jesus upon the cross of Calvary daily. I commemorate and celebrate His death every Sunday when I eat the bread and drink the cup. But because He lives, I live each day with the hope of my own resurrection to eternal life. To me, that is the story of Easter.

BASEBALL

Well, it's baseball time again and for now the Reds are in first place. Let's hope it lasts! They had a decent spring but they are the Reds. Life as we have known it will soon be over as both kids are going to play ball this spring. AC is playing softball and Levi is on a t-ball team. Hopefully we won't need to set up a tent at the ballfield. At least they are playing in the fields that border our neighborhood and are within walking distance.

Levi's team mother called last week and told him he is going to be wearing number 5. I told him that when I first started playing baseball I wore number 5 too. He asked me why and I told him that was Johnny Bench's number and he was my favorite player. Levi then asked if Johnny let me borrow his uniform.

I am looking forward to seeing them play but I refuse to allow any coach or parent rob the kids of the joy of playing the game. They are only 5-7 years old and shouldn't be expected to grasp the inner workings and strategies of the game. We have also made it clear that our priorities for baseball and softball fall somewhat down the list from God and family. We will not, I repeat, will not be missing Bible class or worship for a ballgame.

As I look back on my baseball career (short-lived and glamorous as it was) I recall having fun. The wins were great (Little League district champions, high school state runner-ups). I also recall the sting of defeat (I made the last out of my last high school game by swinging at a pitch that bounced 10 inches in front of the plate). When I look back, I think of the fun. I want my kids to play for the fun of it. The percentages are not in their favor to ever play baseball for a living. Their calling is higher, to be a servant of God. Not that they couldn't be a servant of God who also played baseball, but my goal is to create in them the desire of serving God by serving others.

I am thankful for my memories of baseball and for those who showed me how much fun it can be. I want to show others that same fun.

"That Sounds Kind of Hollow to Me"

Well I have found myself quite busy again and have allowed 11 days to pass between posts. I know everyone has been anticipating this one. I have nothing to say really, I just didn't want my father-in-law to comment again on the freshness of my blog, or the lack thereof.

I had to work on Saturday last week and it looks like a partial day is in store for me this Saturday. Last week I worked with a group of people ages 77-92. The 77 year-old claimed she was 60. Today another 70+ year-old claimed she was 32. The only way she could reconcile the discrepancy between her 32 years and her son's 50 years was to conclude that "there must be something wrong with him." As you can see, the group I was working with last Saturday lacked appropriate cognitive skills. Most couldn't hear so I was required to scream everything at least twice. I had 30 minutes of therapy planned but saying everything twice, I was able to charge 60 minutes. I was instructing on some strategy to improve their memory and in making the point I kind of knocked on my head and made that popping sound with my lips. Without missing a beat the most auditorily challenged 92 year-old stated, "That sounds kind of hollow to me." At which the other 3 members of the group laughed hysterically. I failed to see the humor. How in the world can I be talking loudly, in a pitch below my normal frequency, enunciating deliberately twice and they not hear me, but I make one popping sound and she says that and they all have perfect hearing all of a sudden? I don't get it.

I am learning something about what elderly people are concerned about though. It is not usually what day it is, "Who cares what day it is?" is a question I get often. Many times they are asking where their family is or when they are going to be there. They are concerned about how they are going to pay for this lunch that is way too much food for them to eat. They are concerned about their spouse who is now living alone because they are in the nursing facility. They are battling for their independence as they feel it slipping from their grasp. Many realize they may never return to their home of 50 years. Many suffer depression and anxiety stemming from such losses. Many experience an anger they never knew they were capable of feeling. Most, at some point, come to accept this fate, but there is always something in the air that they just don't want to be there.

I could go on, but I wish most people could get a glimpse of the residents of a nursing facility. I try to see them as people with souls and feelings; real feelings that shouldn't be ignored. Sure it is easy sometimes in our busyness to put off the guy who lays on the call light all day long, or to pacify the lady who has a small bladder, but if it was us or our family member, we would have a different perspective. Most people have plenty of visitors, but there a lonely few who I take extra time with most days. I would encourage Christians to take their kids to the nursing facility and just stop and talk to whoever they see. Kids have a way of brightening an elder's day. They just light up and many smile where they haven't had reason to smile for a time. I promise that you will be blessed as well. It is a great way to serve. The elderly population have insights and perspectives of life from which we younger people can learn and grow. There is much to appreciate from those seasoned by life.

I am thankful that I work in a place that offers me education in living everyday. I pray I am wise enough to ask, listen, and heed.

Grand in My Dreams

I wrote this a couple of years ago and was reminded of it this week.

A dream will not usually wake me up. Though occasionally I not only recall vivid details, I carry the feeling with me for a period of days. This was no nightmare. Quite the opposite actually. I, in my dream, experienced a meaningful sense of euphoric nostalgia.

For reasons unknown, seemingly unprovoked, I dreamed of my days at Wayne, West Virginia. As happens in dreams though, it was like I was outside looking in, yet fully participating and recognized. It began with a throng of people, mostly unfamiliar faces outside under cool, gray skies. Not rain or storms, just overcast. The weather didn't dampen the intensity of my emotion. I had a sense of a return to the past, ushered by present feelings. I was returning to a place I loved, probably the most-loved place from my past.

Entering a building, I find myself in a dimly lit large room, resemblence to a gym, though more grand than the reality. In the distance I hear the faint call of the faceless crowd and am drawn to it by a warmth indescribable. As I make the journey across the room toward the warmth, I hear familiar voices, recall certain events from my past that are filled with meaning. Drawing closer to the warmth and ever-broadening brightness, the sound of laughter and joy eminate. Walking into the awaiting portal, I am transformed into a 15 year-old boy again. The cool dampness of the outdoors is overwhelmed by the joy of nostalgia, for I am back in the present. No longer am I a participant; I am a mere observer. I find myself in that realm of conflict as I desire to bask in the grandness of my dreams while consciousness tugs ever so gently, yet persistently. I awake with tears in my eyes, dripping to my cheek; unsure if they are tears of joy from the experience or tears of sorrow that the connection has been broken.

Why this dream, so vivid, on this night, I don't know. It is sometime in May and I believe we decided to move from Wayne about this time. Laying in bed wondering about a meaning for the dream and some sense of understanding, I had to get up. I wanted to go back to sleep and resume the thought again but was unable. I thought of my wife, looked at her sleeping, then for some reason, I went straight to the bedsides of my two children. Seeing their sleeping innocence, I couldn't take my eyes from them. The longer I saw them, the clearer my understanding. the clearer my task and duty. The meaning of the dream had nothing to do with any certain place, no particular people, no specific period of time. It did have something to do with me; who I was and who I have become, what I will be. I guess leaving Wayne was my defining moment, a test perhaps. God wanted to know if my trust in Him was trust. Wayne, I believe, was the testing ground of my faith. Everything I had learned up to that point was training, instruction from Godly parents. God knew I was getting comfortable with who I was and where my focus was. I needed to demonstrate my faith and dependence on Him. My, how we are blessed when we allow God reign in our hearts and depend upon His guidance.

My mind instantly turned to how God was leadingme to His purpose. My patience and reliance on Him lead me to Jodi. I opened my eyes again and Anna Clair, sprawled across the bed, lay peacefully asleep. I walked back to Levi's bed and found him, face covered with blanket, also peacefully asleep. Again, my task and duty are evident. My task and God-directed duty is to prepare these two precious souls for lives of service to God. I must instill in them lessons for eternity. They must see in me, Jesus Christ, in all things, at all times. They must see in me a life of dependence upon God for everything. I am humbled by this privilege! Because I don't know when their life lessons will be called into action, I must be vigilant and strong. Never wavering, never compromising, never ceasing. Always leading, always encouraging, always praying. I must give them my faith as a seed. Then I must water and nourish it, tend it. I must feed it with the truth so that when it is tested, it becomes their faith. Oh how sad indeed to lose Anna Clair or Levi, or both of them to the world. My heart could not bear it! Now, more that ever before, with vision clear, I press on to my task and duty. May I have no regrets.

I return to slumber with a renewed vigor to lead my family so that someday my children will recall a certain place, a particular group of people, or a specific period of time and realize that the feelings are who they are; that God has lead them to that place and will always lead them when they depend on Him. I am blessed beyond measure!

"My Kids Are Going to Eat Vegetables!"

As I entered the kitchen yesterday evening from work, Jodi was preparing dinner. I looked at the menu items of pork chops (yes she still fixes them for me), macaroni and cheese, soup beans, and a mixture of vegetables. She then proceeded to tell me of her decision that the kids needed to eat more vegetables and that this mixture was going to be the genesis of it. I looked into the pan and saw corn, carrots, broccoli, those little ears of corn the size of half my pinky finger. This combination was smothered with a cheese sauce. Before I could utter a sound, I heard her say to me in her best motherly tone, "And you are going to eat yours and be a good example to them!!" I thought better of my comment, turned and went to the living room and watched "The Little Mermaid." Me and the kids sat there together, hugging each other, a common goal ahead of us: eat the vegetable blend and like it.

We anticipated the call, "Come on you guys, it's time to eat." It finally came and we slowly walked to the table, unsure of our fate. Anna Clair was the first to see her plate and she quickly blurted out, "Oooooooh! I am not eating this nasty stuff!!" Jodi informed her that her assessment of the situation was not needed to influence her little brother. In reality, Levi didn't need her influence because one look and his sentiment was quite the same.

I dutifully forked the mix into my mouth quickly chasing it with a large swig of tea. Jodi informed the kids that we would play a game to help them eat their share of the vegetables. She appealed to one thing they couldn't refuse: money (so she thought!) They would get a dime for every bite they took. Anna Clair, though saving for a pair of Heelys, pretty much dismissed the possibility that a single morsel of the mix would pass her lips. She excused herself to the bathroom and while she was gone, Jodi put a bite of it on Levi's fork. He was slow to be convinced this was going to be good and eventually, he put it in his mouth. Wails and tears followed and nearly a regurgitation that would have undoubtedly set off an unfortunate chain reaction. He did end up swallowing it and washed it down with his milk. When Anna Clair returned, Levi was ready to report that he nearly threw up twice.

Jodi stated that the two of them were beyond understanding and asked me how the vegetables were. Uh-oh! In that brief moment I had a decision to make. I think I made the right one. I said, "Yes, they are great!" as convincingly as I could, held my breath and swallowed real hard.

My thought was that of all the vegetables we could have tried, a mixture such as I have described was probably not the best. Given Anna Clair's avoidance in the bathroom, Levi's 10-cent bite and my effort, Jodi was the only one who really enjoyed the vegetables. Next time I am thinking green bean (perhaps in a casserole) or potatoes, and I will enjoy them as well.

I am thankful that I was able to eat the mound of mixed vegetables and keep it down so I could be a good example to my kids. I hope everytime I have to give them an example it's a little easier. I am also thankful for Jodi being the best mother in the world to her three kids.

"I Sound Just Like Them, Don't I?"

While driving in the car today, Anna Clair asked me to put one of her CDs in the player. It is one of those "girly" CDs (Hillary Duff or someone like her) All I know is that it has been cleared by Momma. Anyway she started singing away full-voiced on one of the songs and after the first couple of lines she said, "I sound just like them, don't I?" I replied, "Yes you sure do!" And then I thought to myself, "The same way I sound like when I sing along with Johnny Cash. 'I fell into a burning ring of fire...'" Oh the curse of a baritone voice. It's kind of like being barely 5'10".

I started thinking about that as we finished the drive home. Wouldn't it be great if all Christians could say, "Hey, I had compassion on that person just like Jesus did." Or, "My faith is as strong as Paul's." What if we all made the strongest effort to serve like we should? What if we all strove to imitate Jesus in everything? What effect would that have on our lives, our family, our church, our community, our world? Paul said that very thing in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Imitate me just as I imitate Christ."

Let's endeavor to attain the character traits needed to make an impact on our world. Let's help each other develop them as well.

What Will They Say?

The series "Centennial" began by laying the groundwork in 1795 of the first white men to brave approaching the Indians. As westward expansion continued throughout the 19th century the area called Centennial was established in Colorado. With each succeeding generation, the stories and the history were told. Names like Pasquinel, McKeag, and Zendt were mentioned. Their personalities, beliefs, and histories were told repeatedly to demonstrate how the past influences the present and future. That influence may be positive or negative depending on how one lived.

It is vital that we live today in such a manner that the legacy we create and leave to posterity is positive. What we do today will have the power to impact our descendents. What will people say of you after you have left this earthlife?

I am reminded of a song Acappella sang quite a few years ago. It is titled, "What Will They Say?" I don't have the cassette tape sleeve (the what!?) with the words on it but part of it follows that question with the following:

Will they say Jesus was your holy example and that you followed Him best that you could?
Will they say that your life made a difference to the people who knew you best?

How easy it is for us to just live in our hurry up life, taking little notice of the power of our influence. We say and do things at times that contradict what we profess. Other times we ignore that power of influence and fail to live up to the standard of Jesus. I am reminded of King Jehoram of Israel in 2 Chronicles 21. It is said of him that he, "to no one's sorrow, departed."

We have the responsibility as Christian parents to live well and give the gift of eternity to our children.

What will they say when your days are over? A sobering question indeed.

Where Have You Been?

It has been a little more 2 weeks since I last posted a blog. My wife got an email from her brother today requesting that she inform me it was time to update. I have drafted a blog or two in the last 2 weeks but did not publish them. Since the last post regarding the fact that John and Sally get the privilege of hosting my kids next, Jodi and I have spent nearly every evening watching the acclaimed TV Miniseries from 1978 "Centennial". That is nearly 20 hours of viewing time (minus the fast-forwarding through the opening credits.)

I remember "Centennial" being on TV when I was a child. I can't say that I saw every episode all the way through but have seen it at least once as an adult. They could never show it on TV today and hope to get a consistent audience for the 12 episodes. Our pace of life today is in stark contrast to the year 1795. I always had a slight fascination with history when I was younger but never embraced it. Perhaps my educators lacked the ability to "bring it to life" for me. Maybe I couldn't understand how the past has always influenced the present. It could be that I thought it was a subject you could never master because history is always being created and the text book would continue to grow.

Today I am different. If I had schooling to do again, I would highly consider history. "Centennial" traces the development of a fictional Colorado city from the year 1795 to the present day (1978). The main theme I believe is that the land and the water have always supplied and benefitted mankind. The series depicts the characters who may have lived in the west in the late 18th, 19th and 20th centuries and weaves their lives and times together. The earliest were the fur traders and then those longing for the adventure and promise of their own land out west. We are introduced to their struggles, their rewards, their strengths, even their faults. It is difficult for me to grasp a nearly 200-year time period when I haven't even experienced one-fifth of that amount of time.

In Centennial (the town) we see how those who cherished the land and its natural resources respected and honored the land and passed the legacy from generation to generation. We see their convictions and the battles they faced from those who didn't share their vision. There are many lines in the movie that are full of meaning. Many observations can be made and applied. I recall one sentiment that the founder of the town, Levi Zendt stated. Just before his death, he stated that one can't choose the time in which he lives. To paraphrase the rest, he just has to choose to make his time the best it can be.

We all have our own history. People we have never met, perhaps never even heard of, influence us today. Some of the history is a shared history. America's founding is such a shared history. George Washington, Ben Franklin, John Adams, and others like them didn't choose to live in 18th century America. They chose their path through that time. We must choose our path through our own time. We think it was easier living in the past. If you study our history, you'll discover that is not the case.

My history includes people from my line, my ancestors. My grandmother gave me a family tree starting with my mom and I have the names of 10 generations in four branches. Though not directly, everyone of them has had influence on me. One day I look forward to climbing in that tree and seeing what I can see.

This is longer than I planned and I have many thoughts stirred from the series "Centennial". I hope to share them in the future. I hope you like history.

I am thankful for my ancestors who taught their children to love and honor God with their lives who then taught their children who taught their children...

Three and a Half Days

For the past 3 1/2 days we have had two additional kids. J and Shaylyn were with us while John and Sally were in Gatlinburg. The 4 kids played well together and were very well-behaved for the most part. It was so cold Sat and Sun that they were not able to go outside to play. The indoor activities lost interest at times and the tiredness (late nights) was catching up but they all acted like they had some sense.

A funny exchange took place with both J and Shaylyn. Sat afternoon, Levi, J, and I went to Columbus to make a few stops. I keep my lifesaver mints in the car and Levi only likes the green ones. They are wintergreen which everyone calls "Pepto Bismol" flavored. J and Levi wanted one and I passed them back. I said they were "Pepto Bismol" and J replied, "Pepto Gizmo" and then said "It's a lifesaver!" I think they may want to adopt this as their new ad campaign. I know from experience that it is a lifesaver. And it is very tasty!

Shaylyn and I were talking (she was giving me more time this visit than at any other visits put together, she even came up and hugged me out of the blue) about something and I said that I was smarter than her daddy. She disagreed but I convinced her that we were both pretty smart. She said, "You both are the same height" (when it comes to intelligence) because we all know that I am barely 5'10".

We enjoyed the time spent together this weekend and look forward to the next occasion. It is great to see cousins who enjoy spending time together. May they grow up together and enjoy their friendships.

I am thankful for family and the relationships God blesses us with. I guess how enjoyable these relationships are for us depends a lot on how much time we spend nurturing them. Too many people fail to reap the blessings by choosing conflict and hostility instead of compromise and forgiveness.

Two Daily Observations

There are two things that when I see or hear I just shake my head. I don't even try to figure out why they bug me. They don't bug me to the point of me losing sleep or anything, they just bug me. They might seem a bit trite but I wish I didn't have to see or hear them.

Firstly, do people not really know which side of the 'N' goes first? I see these backward 'N's all over the place. Mostly I think some wiseguy put it up that way to bug those of us who notice, or people just arent' paying attention when they put those letters up, but then there is the restaurant I pass going to work that had a sign made that way. I have not yet stopped at one of these places or called to see if I am the only one who noticed. Like I said it doesn't bother me for very long, but I have to wonder if the business owner really wants the 'N' backwards on his sign.

Secondly, is it just me or is everyone on TV and the radio saying the date in an obnoxious way? I was not born in the year one thousand nine hundred sixty and nine, Columbus didn't sail the ocean blue in one thousand four hundred ninety and tw0, but this is the year two thousand and seven and the Buckeyes had an unbelievable two thousand and six regular season. I don't know if this bothers anyone else but I was always taught that you only say and when you are using decimals and it refers to what comes after the decimal i.e., I have $4.25 (four dollars and twenty-five cents.)

These are just two observations that I have had lately. Are there any other things that bug anyone else, nuisances of daily life? I am not looking for things that would cause you to seek professional counseling, just goofy things we see everyday. Do I need counseling about these two observations? I know I might need it for some other things but what about these?

I am thankful I know how to make a capital 'N' the right way and that I don't say and when I say the year.

Levi's Homeschool Day

Jodi was in Dallas, Texas from Sunday to Wednesday this week. My plan on Wed was to get Anna Clair on the bus, get Levi to preschool and then spend the 2 hours in the library getting caught up on some paperwork. Well, the 1/2 inch of snow delayed school for 2 hours so Levi was out for the day. Plan B: do whatever Levi wanted or watch my blood pressure soar when trying to get paperwork done at the kitchen table while dodging a plethora of Star Wars ships or army tanks.

I say Levi's homeschool day because as I reflect on a wonderful day spent with my son, I recall some educational moments. We have a game table in the basement (5 games in all) but Levi is fond of the pool table. You can learn about geometry in pool (angles, shapes, etc.) With the table warped already those lessons were difficult for a 5-year old to understand. We reviewed counting with a little 9-ball tournament. We learned patterns (stripes/solids). Levi likes the solids even when he breaks and holes 2 stripes. In pool we also studied 'english'. That seems to be a hard lesson for him to learn but we will keep trying.

Later in the morning we had math class. I was going up stairs to get ready and was sidetracked by a phone call. Before getting in the shower, I went back downstairs and caught Levi almost with his hand in the cookie jar. He was chewing on something resembling a cud. I asked him what he was eating and he kind of smiled (black teeth) and said "An oreo." After swallowing 2 more times to clear his oral cavity he added proudly, "I had two of them." The admonition he received was, "No more!" The math lesson comes in when I came back downstairs and placed Levi on my lap and smelled peanut butter. I asked him if he had eaten a Reese cup. He said yes. An hour later I went to throw something away and noticed a sea of orange wrappers in the trash. A word problem: "Levi, how many Reese cups did you have?" Typical child answer: "Count the wrappers." Follow up question: "Levi, you ate 4 Reese cups and 2 oreos?" Answer demonstrating proficiency in math: "Yes, that's 6 isn't it."

Result: dismiss class for the rest of the day and play Uno.

It was fantastic to get to spend the day with Levi alone, something not usually done. Special times like those don't happen as frequently as I would like them to. When they do happen, with Anna Clair or Levi, they are treasured. Too often we get so busy with things that are just urgent and we neglect the important things.

All three of us are thankful that Jodi returned home safe and sound Wednesday evening. While she was away, it felt as if part of us was also away, I guess it was. There was an incompleteness about our life. We feel truly blessed to have the Momma we have and wouldn't trade her for anything. My goal is to demonstrate for Anna Clair and Levi and teach them to cherish Jodi and be grateful she cares enough about them to make them mind. I think they are starting to get a glimpse of how wonderful she is. May we never have to make it without her.

I am thankful for days of play with my kids, special times alone with each of them to share fun. I am thankful for my family and the blessings they bring me every day.

The Oatmeal Bowl

I have been eating more oatmeal since my cholesterol came back high a few months ago. I usually eat 2 packs at a time and instead of measuring 2/3 cup of milk twice, I measured it once and drew a line on the plastic bowl. One recent morning, Anna Clair asked me what the line was for on the bowl. I explained to her that it was the correct measurement for the milk for two packs of oatmeal. Drawing the line on the bowl was so that I could remember how much milk to add; I wouldn't need to guess. She seemed to understand somewhat.

I began to wonder about a spiritual application from something so ordinary to me. I am reminded of the instruction Moses offers in Deuteronomy 6. He begins by giving the command to fear God and obey His instructions. In verse 5 Moses reminds them to love God completely. Is there any other way? Can we love God partially? Moses continues the admonition to make the statutes and commands of God their life. Daily observance of who God is and visual reminders of His great love before our children provide needed guidance. Moses then warns of the consequences of forgetting God. Observing God's goodness, greatness, kindness, mercy, grace, etc. is right and good in His sight according to Moses.

In verse 20 Moses gives the reason we should recognize God as such and the importance of nurturing our children in His ways. When the children ask why, what, how, we should tell them of our own deliverance at His hand. Our response to His character in our own life causes our recognition and obedience. Verse 25 says that this kind of living will be righteousness for us.

Too many times today I hear of people or talk to people who are questioning the lessons and doctrine they learned as a child. Good people rooted in the truth of the Bible are now doubting the truth. Culture is a powerful tool Satan uses to deceive us. I do believe that questioning what we believe and have been taught is good. I would advocate though that when one questions, sincerely seeks what the Bible says (not culture), and honestly asks for God's wisdom, the Bible will confirm what they believe. Proverbs 22:28 says it well, "Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set."

If Christians today would seek God, His way, and pattern their life after Jesus...what a thought! Where would that thinking and action take us? I pray for the guidance needed to teach my children of the ancient landmarks set down. I pray for the wisdom and insight to tell them the why, what, and how. I pray for their faith to develop into a trusting faith and one that seeks what pleases God and not themselves.

I am thankful for grandparents and family who provide a constant example to me and to my kids. May we, together, weather the storms.

Cal & Tony

It was refreshing to hear that both Ripkin and Gwynn are entering the HOF with nearly 100% of the votes. I believe they both would be unanimous if not for the stupidity of a couple of voters who refuse to vote for anyone who played in the "Steroid Era". I think these two players are the end of a breed. They embody the purity of the game of baseball as it was in my childhood memories. When I reflect on the game of baseball and how I saw it as a child, I don't see any of the business aspects. I see a game. I don't see punks and thugs who seem to care only about how much money they can get a team to pay them (whether or not they are worth it). I don't see money-grubbing owners soaking the fans. I see a game. What a fantastic game it was and in some ways, I guess, still is.

I don't know for sure but I think both Ripkin and Gwynn entered the league in the same year, somewhere around 1979. I have baseball cards of both, one is Ripkin's future stars card and the other is Gwynn's rookie or second year. Both of these players are remembered and placed in the HOF primarily for their "on-the-field" production. Ripkin, the Iron Man, demolishing a record for consecutive games played. I heard a stat the other day that he played 501 straight games after breaking the record, which has not even come close to being touched. Gwynn was a perenniel candidate for the NL batting title, posting a .300+ career average. He hit .350 for a few years straight.

As great as their numbers are and for the most part, those criteria gain you the bronze bust in Cooperstown, I don't recall the numbers. I remember that without a doubt, Cal would be wearing Oriole orange and Tony would be wearing the Padre brown. If there were two teams you wouldn't want to play for it may have been those two in the 80's if only for the uniforms they were forced to wear. (The White Sox and their capri pants may have been the worst!) I am sure with their talent, either would have had ample opportunity to demand a trade to a better team and hopefully win. I know both organizations had some decent seasons, but they were never a surety in October. As I say, they are a breed the likes of which we will never see again. I respect them for their love of the game when the game was moving away from fun. They stayed with their teams and to my recollection, neither was ever rumored to be traded. I don't recall ever hearing of any "off-the-field" exploits. They were gentlemen and earned the respect of the veterans and adoration of the rookies.

I can't think of any others who can boast such dedication to their craft of baseball. Today, all of the "superstars" are clamoring for an interview with Steinbrenner. I have no doubt that players like Jeter would be seeking NY if they played elsewhere. One of my favorite Reds, Larkin, comes to mind, but he will probably not see the inside of the HOF, his production may not be enough. We, the fans, need more ambassodors like Ripkin & Gwynn, guys who put in honest days' work, and did it with class for 20 plus years without seeking selfish gain.

I am disappointed that my son and nephews and others their ages today didn't have the privilege of watching Cal Ripkin, Jr. and Tony Gwynn work their way to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. Honors well deserved, indeed. I look forward to the day when I can take Levi to Cooperstown and share my memories of the "players of my day" and let him know that the game of baseball wasn't always like it is now.

I am thankful that there are honest people in the world. May I also strive for such honesty in my family, recreation, and occupation.

Buckeye Adjectives

I am starting a list of adjectives that describe the National Championship game performance by the Buckeyes. Please feel free to add to it. I really wanted to root for OSU this year. There were times I actually enjoyed watching them play. They could have possibly won a new fan last night. I watched half of the game; I stayed up until midnight but only saw one of the two teams playing. I am a fan of Tressel and I am sure that the Bucks will have other opportunities and hopefully they learned something from last night's experience. I think the university should take their share of the millions and pay the fans back the money they spent getting to Glendale to cheer for the team. If they don't pay the fans they should let the BCS keep it for not showing up to play the game. Here goes my list:

disgusting
revolting
nauseating
repulsive
ridiculous
uninspired
insipid
unbelievable
arrogant
overconfident
regrettable
laughable
pathetic
pitiful
unimpressive
unprepared
indefensible (kind of like the Gator offense)
absent (kind of like the Buckeye offense)
frustrating
ludicrous
preposterous
absurd
incredible

I'm thankful that the outcome of football games have no eternal consequences for my life. I hope you don't get too high or low based upon a sporting event.

Casualty List

I overheard a CNN Headline News report last week that stated that the death count of US soldiers in Iraq has now surpassed the number of US citizens killed on 9-11. As I heard the stat, I was stunned that the comparison was made. What does it really matter how many have given the ultimate sacrifice compared to the number of 9-11 victims. The tag line seemed to me to indicate that CNN thinks that is enough and that we should pull everyone home. "We have lost too many. It's time to come home!"

I don't pretend to be a political pundit, nor am I up to date on all of the ins and outs of our presence in Iraq. I do know that if we as a nation do not have a cause that unites us to face an enemy that is more real than some want to admit, our resolve to see it through will not prevail. What would those who don't understand our need to face the current enemy have done during the 1940's? I asked an army veteran today if war was ever justified. He said, "yes." I don't think any American military has ever sought a fight. But I am thankful that we have had leaders who are strong enough to finish a fight that needed to be fought. Every military personel member who has lost their life creates a sad situation. It touches my heart to hear such reports. May our resolve and conviction for the cause see us through in the new year.

Our Christian life is also a fight. Our enemy is vigilant. Our resolve must be strong to overcome. Our cause is one of hope and promise. The cross of Jesus offers us an eternity surrounding heaven's throne and God's glory. We are not fighting the battles alone. God created the church to give us the help we need. We choose our mates to help us daily face the foe. We seek to foster family relationships that will move us closer to heaven. Relationships are forged to reach deeper into our hearts that will provide strength, comfort, and rejoicing when each are needed.

May our cause be vivid in our hearts and minds daily. May our focus be on the cross of Jesus.

I am thankful for those who are around me who remind me that the cross of Jesus is a worthy cause.