Christmas Traditions

Webster defines TRADITION as an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior.

As Christmas approaches again, we find ourselves doing our "inherited, established, customary pattern of thought, action or behavior".  It's fun to hear the different traditions that families have for Christmas.  I remember one of our traditions growing up in the Wheat home in Lonoke, AR.  Every night on Christmas Eve mom and dad would always let us open one gift.  It was always a new pair of pajamas.  I thought it was funny that we always got the same type of gift every Christmas Eve, but as I got older it made sense.  Mom wanted us to look good and also to be dressed in something besides gym shorts for the photos that would be taken on Christmas morning.  

Now, our family has an established or customary pattern, action and behavior we do every year (no, it's not new pajamas).  Before we open the gifts, we read the Christmas Story.  After the story has been read, we pray as a family.  Another "customary pattern and action" is done while opening our gifts.  We go around and let each person open their gifts one at a time so we all can enjoy their response.  Actually, Krystal and me watch the kids take turns and then we open our gifts.  

 

There are some other "actions and behaviors" that we have also begun such as assembling a Gingerbread House, buying for another family who needs help during Christmas, sponsoring a Christmas Basket at our church, going to see Christmas lights and several more.  

Putting up Christmas lights on our house and in the yard is another "established, customary pattern, action and behavior".  It was several years ago that we started putting lights up.  It started by putting clear lights on the house.  Today we have colored lights on the house, inflatables that include Frosty the Snowman, a Christmas Bear and Snoopy.  The decorations also include lighted trees, a horse and pony drinking from water, twinkling snowflakes in the trees, animated deer and the sidewalk lined with candy-canes and lights.  It has grown each year.  It's become a time when we work together and enjoy the light show during the Christmas season.  

2011 Light Show

I hope that one day when Ashlyn and Mitchell are older and posting their blogs (if blogs are still around), they will be able to write and share about our traditions and also some of their own.  

Traditions ~ an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior.  I guess another definition would be "great memories". 

How Is Your "EGO"?

I was given a book today and began reading it while I was waiting on my appointment.  I really enjoy books on leadership and I really enjoy books on "spiritual leadership".  The book I was given is The Servant Leader by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges.  I haven't read it all but what I have been able to ready is worth passing on.  


One chapter deals with the difference in being a "servant leader" and a "self-serving leader".  In this short chapter it begins to speak of EGO.  We all have an ego but as I read how this book defines "Ego", it made me stop and think.  I'd like to pass this on to you. 


There are two acrostics of the word "EGO" this book uses:
              1.  Exalting God Only
              2.  Edging God Out


In this book, The Servant Leader, Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges shares how we Edge God Out.  Read it and see if your EGO needs adjusting.

How Do We Edge God Out?

When We Put Something Else In His Place as the Object of Worship ~
When you're making a leadership decision, what do you put in God's place as the object of your worship?  Power, recognition, appreciation, money - whatever it is, it's not worth it.

Philippians 3:3 (NLT) For we who worship God in the Spirit...put no confidence in human effort.  Instead we boast about what Christ Jesus has done for us.


When We Rely On Other Sources For Our Security and Sufficiency ~ 
When we put our trust in something else other than the unconditional love of God, other than in His care for us, when we put our security in other things - it can be our intellect, our position, our business contacts, anything - we're counting on the temporal instead of the eternal. 

Proverbs 3:5-6  Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

When We Put Others in His Place as Our Major Audience for Self-Worth ~ 
In Robert S. McGee's The Search for Significance, we learn that if the devil had a formula for self-worth that he would want you to buy into, it would be; Your self-worth is equal to your performance plus the opinion of others.  If you're constantly looking to make yourself feel good or worthwhile based on your performance or the opinions of others, you're constantly going to be chasing an elusive, frustrating fantasy. 

Psalm 118:8  It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.


When We Lose Intimacy with his Unconditional Love, We Fear Intimacy with Others ~ 
One of the greatest EGO factors that self-serving leaders driven by pride and fear have is the fear of intimacy with others.  Like the Wizard of Oz, they create scary false fronts and barriers between themselves and their people rather than admit that they don't know all the answers, that they may need help.  They fear if they are vulnerable with people, their leadership might be questioned.  The loneliness and isolation that result from fear of intimacy leaves the leader separated from the realities of what is going on and from the good ideas that others may have to offer.


So, how's your "EGO"?  I haven't finished the book but so far, it has been a reminder that as a "servant-leader", your EGO should be "Exalting God Only" and not "Edging God Out".


Thanks Bill for the great book!

Time To Act

It's been a while since my last blog.  In fact, I have been thinking, "What am I going to say?"  I thought about many things that I could blog about but today there was a brief thought that came to mind ~ "Actions Speak Louder Than Words".  We all have heard it and probably have even said it.  But do we really believe it? 

Here's my quick thought on the subject:

Our actions really do speak louder than we realize.  Jesus made it very clear, John 14:21 (TLB) The one who obeys me is the one who loves me..."  Stop and think about your actions.  Do they really speak of the love you have for Jesus?  Just a thought to ponder. 

May we, who say we love Jesus, obey His commands.  Jesus said there are really two commands that sum up the law ~ Love God and Love People.  Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV) 37 Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

Many people say "I love Jesus", but do their actions speak it?  So, are your actions really speaking louder than your words?

Publish Post

Healthy Heart ~ Healthy You

Last year Krystal shared with me that she had set a goal.  She was going to run a 5k.  I love my wife but this surprised me because she will tell you herself that shopping is something that she enjoys more than sweating.  As she began to train and run, I couldn't sit back and do nothing.  So, I decided I would get in shape to run a 5k as well.  After training, she did it.  On Labor Day of 2010, Krystal ran her first 5k in Rogers.  It was "Run For A Child".  I was out of town but we continued to run and train.  I ran my first 5k in Siloam Springs last October in the "Titus Task" 5k.  We both ran and finished the race.

Running is like other exercises in that you need the right equipment.  We bought running clothes, running shoes, and even water bottles that fit into your hand as you are running.  We downloaded apps to our phones and iPods to help us as well.  We had all the right equipment to help us exercise and do better at running.  We were set to keep the exercise going but after running in the Titus Task,  winter hit and the calendar became busier and we stopped.

One evening last week I went for a jog in our neighborhood.  As I was jogging, the thought kept coming to my head, "Why did you stop?  Exercise is good for you."  I began to come up with all the excuses and reasons.  Then my mind went to the following verse of scripture.


1 Timothy 4:8 (NKJV) For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.

I began to compare how I had all the tools and equipment to help me to be a better runner and to help me be more physically fit but I had stopped using them.  I allowed my calendar and the "rough weather" to keep me from doing what would help me keep in shape.  I started to apply this to our spiritual lives.  We have so many tools, resources, books, classes, retreats, conferences, and so much more to help us stay in "spiritual shape" and to continue to become healthier in our spiritual lives.  Unfortunately,  we allow our calendars and "rough weather" to keep us from continuing our "spiritual exercise" so we can become strong and healthy.
  
Now, I'm still not in the habit of running again, but I do need to get back into the habit of physical exercise that will help my body be in good health.  I have begun to watch what I eat and have actually dropped several pounds.  We need to also watch what we feed our spirit as well.

We all know that when we physically eat right and physically exercise we feel better and we live healthier lives.  I'm not suggesting such a strict diet that you can't enjoy life.  I believe that we all need some chocolate in our diet. ha!  What would happen if we also spiritually ate right and spiritually exercised?  I believe we would be healthier and grow stronger in our walk with the Lord.

What's keeping us from doing it?  Discipline is the answer.  It's not easy, but it is necessary.  Just like the physical exercise will help you have a physical healthy heart, spiritual exercise  will help you have a healthy spiritual heart.

Change of Seasons

This morning felt like Fall.  As I stepped out on the patio and finished off my bowl of Cherios, the cool crisp air felt very refreshing.  Just a few weeks ago if I had stepped out on the back patio, my milk would have spoiled in a few moments because it was so hot & humid.  But that is why we have seasons.  Just a couple of months ago we had rains & floods.  This past month we have seen record breaking heat and drought.  Oh and how could anyone forget this past winter of record breaking lows and snow drifts that our dogs got lost in.  But then again....Change of Seasons.

There is a saying in this part of the country that goes like this: "If you don't like the weather, hang out for a little bit because it will change."  That is very true in our weather patterns but it is also true in life.  We all go through different "seasons in life".  We have "growing seasons", "holding pattern seasons", "learning seasons" and so many others.  There are seasons of life that we go through that we may not particularly really like.  (Just like the weather, some like the warm and others do not).  But then again, hold steady because there will be a "Change of Season". 

I have learned that things really do "come to pass".  That statement just means that there are things that I will go THROUGH and they are not my final destination.  We all go through "Change of Seasons".  Just remember that when you go through a season you don't like, just hang out for a little while and it will change.   Our life is a constant "Change of Seasons".

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT) For everything there is a season a time for every activity under heaven.

A DECADE OF LIFE

When you think of the word "decade" what comes to your mind?  Children and even teenagers don't think in terms of decades.  They think in terms of "minutes".  In fact, 30 minutes seems like a "decade" to our 6 year old son Mitchell.  Ashlyn, our 15 year old daughter, probably thinks that a couple of days feel like a "decade".


Webster defines "Decade" as a period of 10 years.  We know that, but do we realize just how fast "a period of 10 years" go by?  Probably not until it has already gone by.  That's how it has been for me and Krystal these past 10 years of being the pastors at First Assembly of God in Siloam Springs, AR.


I remember the day we both stood in the kitchen of our home in Norman, OK and made the decision to take this new assignment from God.  At the time, we really didn't know if it was from God or not. You know what I mean ~ you know it is but there are still some apprehensions of starting over.  When you move your family to a new community, new school, new friends, etc, it can be a little overwhelming to say the least.

On the third Sunday of July, 2001, was our first Sunday at First Assembly of God.  The people in the church were very friendly and were very welcoming to our family.  The church itself had just been through a very difficult time and there was turmoil "in the camp".  The first few years weren't very easy but I don't want to look at the past except to say God was very good to us and the church came through a very difficult time.  One of the biggest lessons I learned in those first few years is that when you just love people, their hurts will mend and they will love you back.  I didn't have a lot of answers, but I did know that if we could love ourselves and others, we would be on the road to recovery.  We began to focus on others and what we could do together to make a difference.  


On July 24, 2011, we celebrated our 10 year Anniversary as pastors of this great church that has great people working together to advance the Kingdom of God.  The church honored us that Sunday evening with a surprise banquet in our CLC gym.  Everyone knew what was taking place but us.  They did an excellent job of keeping it a secret.  Everyone laughed and said it was a miracle that a church of over 400 people could keep a secret.  It was a night of "Toast & Roast" as our families and other people in the church shared stories.  There were times we laughed and then times we teared up from the stories that we heard.  

As the night came to an end, they ended it by giving us a trip to New York City.  Mitchell has this obsession with the Statue of Liberty and we had mentioned that we would have to make a trip to NYC so he could see it.  Ashlyn also would love to go and we as the parents would "have" to go as well.  The church board put together a plan to send our family to NYC for four days.  We were blown away!!!!  The trip has been booked and in a few weeks, we'll be on our way to The Big Apple.  


The surprise banquet, the trip to New York, and the kind words were enough to make us feel loved and appreciated but something else happened that night.  As each of us were saying our "thank yous" in front of everyone, the words of my daughter made me happier than anything else.  Ashlyn began to share her thanks of the outpouring of love that she had felt that night but also the outpouring of love she had felt over the past 10 years.  I could tell, by the shaking of her voice and the holding back of tears, that this church family had made a positive impact on her life.  She thanked them for pouring into her life and having a positive influence in her life.  To hear her share these things made this dad proud of the church.  One of my goals is to make sure I never hear our children make the following statement: "I wished my parents weren't in ministry" or "I wished my dad wasn't a preacher."  There are too many children & teenagers that feel this way because of the bad experiences they have been through.  I am so thankful that our kids have had a positive experience with the church.  I am also proud of our church for allowing our kids to be "kids".  For that, I will be forever grateful.

"A Period of 10 Years" goes by quickly.  We love our church family and I'm not saying that because they gave us an awesome trip.  We loved our church for who they allow us to be.  I don't know if I have ever felt so appreciated and loved as I did on Sunday, July 24, 2011.  It is an honor to pastor the great people of First Assembly of God in Siloam Springs.  There has been so much accomplished these past 10 years and I look forward to see what God has for us in the future!

Coming to a Close

View from our deck yesterday morning!  Wow!

For the past three years our family has done something that we have come to really enjoy....2 week vacations.  Three years ago I told Krystal that I'd like to take two weeks of vacation in a row.  She didn't believe me.  Being in ministry and being pastors has so many blessings and rewards.  It also has its challenges as well.  Time away is important for us all.  If you don't believe this, then you may need to go back and read about Jesus.  There were times that He got away from the crowd for times of refreshing.  I don't know about you, but I think that if Jesus needed time away then we all probably need time away. 

We have always taken our vacation time but usually just one week at a time.  As I said, three years ago I decided to take two weeks in a row.  Krystal didn't really believe that I would allow myself two weeks away from church work to enjoy a little time of relaxing.  I did and we have enjoyed it very much.  It seems like it takes me several days to really begin to relax and take it easy.  That gives me at least another week to relax and really "wind down". 

This year we have spent two weeks in Colorado and it is coming to a close.  Tomorrow we'll begin our journey back toward Siloam Springs.  We'll not get home tomorrow, but will begin the journey.  This has been a great trip and we love making family memories.  Our trip back will include stopping at the American Quarter Horse Association museum in Amarillo.  It's a great place to visit. 

Bar D Ranch & Chuck Wagon Dinner

Ashlyn & Mitchell at the Bar D Ranch

Yesterday we spent the day in Historic Downtown Durango.  We ate a picnic lunch by the Animas River and it was very pleasant.  We enjoyed going through the different stores and taking in all the activity in downtown Durango.  Last night we went to the Bar D Chuck Wagon which is also located in Durango.  It was a great time.  They have a "village" that you can take time to look at leather shops, blacksmith shops and other stores.  The meal was great and the singing and talent were great as well. 

Today we were able to tour the Parelli Horsemanship Headquarters here in Pagosa Springs.  After touring the headquarters, me and Ashlyn were able to go and take a tour of the Parelli Horsemanship Campus and Ranch.  Even if you aren't "into horses", it is still quite impressive.  You can visit their website at www.parelli.com. 

We'll be heading home soon, but we'll still have a few days of relaxing before being back with our church family this coming Sunday.  It will mark our 10 year anniversary of being pastors at First Assembly of God in Siloam Springs.  What a great honor and privilege it is to be part of what God is doing in these last days.  I'm relaxed, refreshed and ready to get back to pastoring the great people of First AG in Siloam. 

Another Week of Family Fun

Whitewater Rafting Colorado River

We are still enjoying our time in Colorado.  Before we left Steamboat Springs this past Friday, we were able to take in some whitewater rafting and hiking.  It was a blast! 

We had been rafting before, but this whitewater trip was probably the best so far.  Colorado River Guides was the outfitter we used and they were great.  I would highly recommend them if you are in the area and looking for a great time.  We went on the Colorado River and the guide said it hadn't moved that fast and hadn't been that high in 25 years.  We did the whole day trip which included a lunch provided by the outfitter.  The scenery was as breathtaking as the cold Colorado River.  We were joined by three other people in our raft, besides the guide.  They were from Louisiana and we enjoyed getting to know them a bit.  I liked hearing the gentleman talk because he had that wonderful Cajun accent.  They enjoyed talking to Ashlyn and listening to Mitchell.  We love rafting and this trip was not disappointing at all. 

On Thursday we decided to take in some hiking around some trails in Steamboat.  We headed up the Gondola to take a hike around the top of the mountain that is covered with snow in the winter time for the skiers.  The view overlooked Steamboat Springs and you could see for miles.  The panoramic view was again breathtaking.

Gondola in Steamboat

After 5 Mile Hike to Fish Creek Falls

Fish Creek Falls was our next stop for hiking.   After taking in a picnic lunch, we began our hike to see the water falls.  Because of the abundance of rain and the melting snow, the water fall was at full blast and the river was rolling pretty good.  We were told to be sure to continue the hike after the first waterfall and so off we went.  The trail is called "Long Lake Trail".  It was a 5 mile round trip hike that took us up 2,400 ft.  Most of the trail wasn't too difficult, but there were several "stop and breathe" breaks.  There were some spots on the trail that made you hug the wall of the mountain.  After a 2 1/2 hike, we came to the most breathtaking waterfalls that I've ever seen.  The hike was very much worth it.  Both Ashlyn & Mitchell were troopers and enjoyed the climb.  Krystal was a trooper as well.  It was one of the highlights of the trip so far.

Fish Creek Falls

We arrived in Pagosa Springs on Friday afternoon.  We are planning on taking it easy and continue to enjoy God's creation.  Wow, is all I can say as I look at the majestic mountains. 

Fun Day

We have had a great day here in Steamboat Springs, CO.  It started early this morning with me and Ashlyn going on a cattle drive at Saddleback Ranch.  It was a great time.  We love riding horses and normally just go on trail rides, ride in parades and also in the grand entry of rodeos.  We haven't really
"worked cattle" before. Today, we actually just moved some cattle from one end of the ranch to the other.  Ashlyn's horse was named Dancer and my horse's name was Dottie.  We rode for about 4 hours as we looked for strays and made sure the cows were going where they were supposed to go.  John was our Wrangler (trail boss) and Kenny was his helping hand.  Kenny just moved up from Wichita Falls.  He has competed in rodeos and worked ranches most of his life.  John was from Virginia and both were super nice.  Saddleback Ranch is an 8,000 acre ranch and is absolutely beautiful.  The ride took us up and over mountains and along rivers.  We rode with 7 other riders and the two ranch hands that told us where to go and what to do.  They made our cattle drive enjoyable.  If you are in Steamboat Springs, CO and want to go on a cattle drive, horseback ride or even a wagon ride with dinner, you would love Saddleback Ranch.  Their website is www.saddlebackranch.net.

Krystal and Mitchell went to a local presentation called "String Festival".  Mitchell said he had a good time but is happy staying at the room for swimming.  It doesn't take much to make him happy.  Afterwards, we all went out and played miniature golf.  We always enjoy a little family competition. ha!

 It has been raining while we are here.  The locals have told us that they have never seen so much rain.  It hasn't stopped us from having fun and especially enjoying the 65-70 degree weather.  Tomorrow we are hitting the rapids and doing some whitewater rafting on the Colorado River.

Awwww...Vacation

It's here!  Our family vacation.  It's not that I don't absolutely love what I do (pastoring the greatest church I know) but we all need a get-away. 

This year we are heading back to Colorado.  I love the mountains! There's just something about the Rocky Mountains that you can't find anywhere else.  We arrived in Steamboat Springs, CO just yesterday afternoon.  It is gorgeous.  We spent the day recovering from the 14 hour drive.  We slept in and then went downtown and walked around and took in the local scenery. 

Vacations are fun for us.  It's a time when we truly get away.  Krystal and I make a promise to each other while we are leaving Siloam Springs.  We promise each other to not bring up church business.  I think this is for me more than her.  Everybody needs a get-away.  We love it for several reasons.  First, we do need a "down time" for refreshing.  Second, we love making memories with our kids.  In fact, we have already reminisced about other vacations we have taken.

We really don't have a set schedule.  There are a few things we said we are wanting to accomplish, but mostly it will be a time to relax and make great memories with the family.  I'll keep you updated and let you know how it is going.  Check back and read about our adventure in the Rockies!  We'll be leaving Steamboat on Friday and making our way south to Pagosa Springs, CO.  Stay tuned!

Just a Vapor

I saw something yesterday that I don't think I have ever seen before.  It was hot, especially after mowing and weed-eating the lawn.  A quick dip in our pool seemed like the logical thing to do and it was too tempting to pass up.  After I had balanced myself in the "floaty thing", I began to relax and just gaze up into the sky.  As I did, there were a few vapor clouds that were passing by overhead.  Just like a kid, I began to make shapes out of them and let my imagination be stretched a little.  As the vapor cloud was moved by the wind, I made out the shape of a dolphin, spider and then it became a star-burst.  As I continued to enjoy thinking like a child, it happened.  I began to notice that the vapor cloud started to disappear.  One after another, each vapor cloud began to vaporize.  It wasn't instant but it took probably close to a minute.  It seemed to be gradual but each cloud disappeared into thin air.  It was intriguing because I had never seen a cloud just vanish before my eyes.  It happens all the time, but I had never really been still long enough to recognize it. 

My mind began to think about what I just saw.  I thought of what James tells us about our lives.
James 4:14 (NKJV) whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.

As I thought of the clouds disappearing so quickly, I really began to think about how quickly our lives go by as well.  It made be think of the study by Max Lucado we are doing in our men's group on Wednesday nights ~ "Out Live Your Life".  It reminds us that we only have one life to live and challenges us to make our life count by living out what the Bible instructs us to do. 

 Many times, I believe, that we forget that our lives, just like the vapor clouds, will slowly go away.  When all is said and done, how have we lived our lives?  Have we made a difference?  Have we encouraged and helped others?  Have we lived a life pleasing to the Lord?  Will we hear those wonderful words, "Well done, good and faithful servant"?  Remember, our lives here on earth are just a vapor.  Live your life to the fullest and make a difference.

The End of the World

Facebook, news media, headlines are all talking about "Judgement Day".  Today is supposed to be the day that the rapture is to take place according to Harold Camping and his followers.  Many laugh and then some believe it will take place today.  What do you think?

The subject came up last night at a wedding rehearsal dinner I was attending.  The question was asked to me (since I was the "preacher" I guess), "What do you think?"  My response was, "the Bible states no man knows the day or hour..."  If asked if I think the end of the world is taking place today, my response would have to be "I don't know."  Personally I don't think that God would send His son Jesus back to earth just to make a man's prediction come true.  But I really do believe that Jesus could come back at any moment.

Many thoughts race through my head about this prediction. Here are just a couple.

First, many people just dismiss it and say the people who believe this are crazy.  I do believe it may damage the validity of people who really are prophets, teachers, preachers, evangelists, apostles, etc because we some how get "lumped" in the same group as this man who is predicting the end of the world.

Secondly, what would take place if we really did believe that Jesus was coming back today?  What would you be doing?  Would you live differently if you did know the date?  I doubt it.  I really believe that we would still be living the way we live and at the "deadline" we would repent and have a change of heart.  Maybe that is why Jesus said that no one will know when it will take place.  It may be that our Heavenly Father really does want us to live everyday as if it were our last.  I know I would probably re-prioritize a few things.  Wouldn't you?

So, my conclusion is simple.  Today could or could not be the day of the rapture.  The point is we DON'T KNOW the hour or day so we should be living everyday as if it could happen at any moment. 

"I KNOW!"

I'm sure that most everyone and every family have their "morning routines".  We definitely do at our house.  Each person has a time when they wake up and begin their routine for the day.  Our routine will vary somewhat depending upon our schedules and meetings, but usually I take Mitchell to school because Ashlyn and Krystal are both going to the high school. 


Me and Mitchell have a "routine" when we are driving up to Northside Elementary.  Our conversation goes something like this as we approach the drop-off line: 
Me:  "Unbuckle and get your backpack ready."
Mitchell:  "Okay"
Me (as we approach):  "Mitchell you are going to have a great day because you are blessed and highly favored of the Lord."
Mitchell:  "I know and you are too."
Me (as he is getting out):  "Have a great day and I love you." 
Mitchell:  "okay" or "love you too" ~ sometimes he is so ready to get out, he doesn't say anything.

This morning was just like all the rest but this time Mitchell said something when he was getting out of the truck at the drop off line that took me back...at first.
 Me:  "Have a great day and I love ya lil' man."
 Mitchell:  "I Know." (nonchalantly)

The following thoughts rushed through my mind quickly,  "What?  Not a 'I love you too'?  Do you not love me?  Hey, you can't get out of this truck until you tell me you love me back."  Were my feelings hurt?  Well maybe for a nano second.  Then my heart became filled with gratitude and joy.  "He KNOWS that I love him."  Wow!  He doesn't wonder about it.  He doesn't question if I do.  He just simply knows. 

Isn't the same with our heavenly Father?  We don't have to wonder about it.  We don't have to doubt it or question if He does.  We can just simply KNOW that He loves us. 

John 3:16 says it all, "For God so LOVED the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life."

I'm glad that Ashlyn & Mitchell both KNOW that I love them.  They don't doubt it or question if I do.  They just know.

Just know that God really does love His children.

Good Friday!

On this day, we remember what our Lord and savior Jesus Christ went through so that we may have a REDEEMER.  The story is very familiar ~ even to those who don't claim to be believers in Jesus Christ.  But sometimes things become too familiar.  May we take time today to remember what Jesus went through on this day we call "Good Friday".

Today is "Good Friday" and we recall the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and all that he went through so that we may believe in Him and have eternal life with Him.  So on this day ~ take a moment to remember.

Today is Good Friday ~ but Sunday is on its way!

Another Milestone

Well, we have reached another milestone at the Wheat household.  I know that many of my blogs deal with how fast time goes by, but once again it has flown by.  Just this past Thursday we acquired another licensed driver in our family.  Well, if you consider a "learner's permit" a license, then we have arrived.  Ashlyn passed her written drivers' test and now she can legally drive with anyone who is 21 and has a valid driver's license.  I am proud of her for her accomplishment.  In fact, as she got up from the table from taking her test, I knew she had passed as she gave me her "special grin" and gave a "fist pump".  It was a great moment.

As we walked out of the testing center, which is in Gentry, she went towards the passenger side and then said, "Hey dad, can I drive back to school?"  Without hesitation, dad said, "Sure!"  She didn't know that I was already planning on allowing her this great privilege.  Once again, memories began to flash in my mind.  She is growing up and there is nothing I can do.  She jumped in the driver's seat and brought us back to Siloam.

Isn't that just like our Heavenly Father.  We reach milestones in our lives and He is there to teach, train and celebrate with us when we accomplish the task.  He isn't there to keep us from moving forward and "growing up".  He is there to cheer us and to encourage us.  You see, this was Ashly's second time to take the test.  We had gone the week before and she missed passing by only one question.  She was heartbroken and disappointed.  Me and Krystal just encouraged her and told her that she just needed to study a little harder and she would pass.

How many times have I not passed the test the first time and had to "re-take it."  There have been many tests in life that I have had to take more than twice.  But each time our Heavenly Father is there, not condemning or scolding, but encouraging and teaching us.  I am so thankful that I have a Heavenly Father that loves me and helps me to pass the tests that I face in this life.  When I pass, He is the first one there to celebrate as I give "fist pump" of celebration.

By the way, Ashly is a very good driver and did great driving us back to Siloam.  In fact, she drove Krystal and herself to school this morning.  Another milestone has been reached.  Wow!

20 Years

It was 20 years ago on March 1st that I said those two words to Krystal and I haven't regretted them:  "I do".  It doesn't seem possible that we have been happily married for 20 years.  They really have been happy, too.  Looking back it seems as if time has just flown by.  As we reflected over the twenty years, there are some great memories and stories to tell.  It may seem a little crazy and "unusual" but we really never have had a fight.  There have been some disagreements and apologies have had to be made from time to time, but never has the thought of separation or divorce ever entered into our minds or came out of our mouths.  I'm not saying this in a prideful way, but in a thankful way.  God has really been good to us as a couple.  Krystal has been God's blessing and gift to me.  I also think that she believes that I am a blessing and gift from God to her.  That is probably why our marriage has been so good.  When someone you love gives you a precious gift, you take care of that gift.  Our relationship is my gift from God and I want to do all I can to nurture & protect this precious gift.  I'm not perfect and I'm not always good at nurturing, but we both do what is needed to keep our relationship a priority.

"Big Cedar Lodge"

This year we were able to do something really special for our 20th.  Just a couple of weeks ago, we went our to eat at PF Chang's.  It was a great night of dinning and spending the evening together.  Then this past week, while Krystal was on spring break, I had booked two nights at the Big Cedar Lodge which is located just outside of Branson, MO.  Neither one of us had been to Big Cedar and we were not disappointed.  I rented a log cabin for two nights and we didn't really have a schedule.  When you live by a schedule, not having one is a great gift you can give.  We did have dinner at the Worman House at Big Cedar and spent a day in Branson just passing the time away together.  We did go see the show "SIX" and really enjoyed it.  We would highly recommend it.  We spent time talking and taking a walk around Big Cedar Resort.  It was quiet and very relaxing.  It was a great time for us both to wind down and just be with each other.


Marriage isn't always easy because it has been ordained by God.  Anything that has been ordained by God, Satan wants to destroy it.  This precious gift that me and Krystal have isn't an exception.  Our prayer is that God receives the glory in everything we do in our lives ~ especially our marriage & family.


Krystal, thank you for 20 great years.  I'm glad I fell in love with my best friend.  I am looking forward to many years to come.  By the way, we need to begin planning for our big 25th Anniversary.  It will be here before we know it!

The Dinner Table

The Dinner Table; If you are like a lot of families, the dinner table is something that becomes a "catch all".   As we pass through or get home from a busy day we lay items such as the mail, a backpack or other items on it while we are on our way to another destination in the house.  Sometimes it is used for a craft or coloring table for the kids to create their latest piece of artwork.  But the real use of the table is to sit down, eat and fellowship.

The Wheat family is just like many families today in that we have a busy schedule.  "Between Sundays" isn't just a name for this blog but it is our life.  When school, church and other activities begin to fill the calendar it is sometimes hard to use the dinner table for what it was designed.  We try to make an effort to sit down at the dinner table but it doesn't always work.  But this week we have been able to sit together, eat, talk and laugh as we have sat down at the Wheat's dinner table.  Ashlyn & Mitchell tell us about their day.  The conversation is usually about the exciting things that happened in school or other events that are coming up.  Ashlyn's topic is usually homework and sports.  Mitchell's topic is usually about a trip to the library or what took place at Sunshine Montessori.  It's usually nothing too deep but a time spent together around the dinner table. 

I wonder what would happen if we, in our busy schedules, would take time to sit around God's "dinner table"?  As a father, I enjoy sitting and listening to my kids share about their day.  Sometimes they ask questions but for the most part they are just talking and not asking for anything.  It's a time for reflection, direction and also connection.  We all get busy, but for some reason I think God would love for us to just take some time to come and sit at His "Dinner Table".  The great thing about God's "Dinner Table" is that it can be anywhere you want it to be.

I know personally that our busy times get in the way but I also know how precious those times around the dinner table can be.  Our schedules don't always allow us to sit at the dinner table, but when we do make time it is a precious moment.  All of us have busy schedules but what would happen if we did take time to sit at our family dinner table more often?  What would happen to us spiritually if we took time to sit at our heavenly Father's dinner table more often?

No Bed of Roses

 

We have all heard the term "no bed of roses" and most of us understand what that means.  Basically when we say "no bed of roses", we are saying that it won't be easy.  The rose is considered one of the most beautiful flowers but along with the beauty comes the stem.  As pretty as the rose is, it has a stem that has many prickly stickers that can draw blood from someone who isn't careful.

This morning I was reading in Exodus when God had given a promise to Moses and the Hebrews when they were in Egypt.  They were slaves in Egypt but God had a plan.  Here is God's plan:  

Exodus 3:7 Then the LORD told him, "I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their cries of distress because of their harsh slave drivers. Yes, I am aware of their suffering.8 So I have come down to rescue them from the power of the Egyptians and lead them out of Egypt into their own fertile and spacious land. It is a land flowing with milk and honey—the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live.

What a great plan ~ God was telling Moses that he had seen the situation and had a plan to "lead them out of Egypt into their own fertile and spacious land.  It is flowing with milk and honey..."  This is a great plan.  The Hebrews were getting out of slavery and they were going to have their very own land that was fertile for crops to grow and spacious enough so it wouldn't be crowded.  This is AWESOME!  But now look at the rest of the sentence and what God also was saying...."the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live."  Wait a minute!  Did I read this correctly?  Aren't these "ites" enemies?  It's interesting to me that God was delivering the Hebrews and giving them a wonderful promise of a land that was flowing with milk and honey, but it was already occupied by others.  Don't worry.  God knew what He was doing.  As you continue to read, God uses Joshua to go and conquer these "ites" that God is talking about.

As I read this, I began to think of all the promises that God gives to us.  We like the promises, but we don't like the enemy that we have to overcome in order to "occupy our promised land".  Just like we like the rose but we don't like the thorns that come with the rose.  God gives us promises, but He also wants us to step out and fight in His might and strength to make the promise a reality.  

What about you?  I hear people say, "God promised...." but they haven't done anything to take a step toward that promise.  God's promises are wonderful and they are great but some promises aren't "a bed of roses."  I love the rose, but I have to overcome the thorns to enjoy it.  I love God's promises but many times I have to overcome obstacles (with His help) to enjoy them.

Jesus never promised us a "happy life" but He did promise that we could have "life and life to the full".  This doesn't mean we won't have to deal with the "thorns" that come along with the "rose of life". 

Social Networks ~ Good or Bad?

A few years ago the term "social network" wasn't in our vocabulary.  Today, many people use the internet and "social networks" such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and many others to "stay connected".  I don't believe there is anything wrong with having some type of social networking, but I do believe it is like anything else.  You have to be careful in how you use it.  One of two things will take place ~ You will control it or it will control you.

For example:  I just read an article in Leadership Journal that shared about a pastor who has banned Facebook among his church staff.  They could delete their account or they could resign.  He has also called on married people in his 1,100 member congregation to delete their Facebook accounts as well.  The pastor said that 20 couples from his church have had marital problems in the last six months afer a spouse reconnected with an "old flame" on Facebook.  "What happens is someone from yesterday surfaces, it leads to conversations, and there have been physical meet-ups.  The temptation is just too great."   The article continues and says that according to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, 81% of its members have either used or been faced with evidence from social networking sites in divorce cases in the last five years, including Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace.

Wow!  It's also important that we are careful not to use social networks to "blast" people or gossip or use it in any negative way.  My father-in-law says that it's just a place and another way for people to gossip.  We laughed, but there is some truth in his statement.  It's interesting that people will share things over their social network with their "friends" that they normally wouldn't share with anyone else.  The problem comes when their "friends" have "friends" and their "friends" have "friends".  Your "opinion" or what you are doing, feeling or sharing becomes a headline.  Be careful what you put on your "status" or what you "tweet". 

There are also studies that show that companies lose billions, yes BILLIONS, of dollars in productivity because of social networks.  Are we being good stewards of our employer when we spend time checking the status of friends on Facebook?  Probably not.  If you work for a company and you just have to update your status or check your friend's status, you may want to do it on your break or lunch hour.  What a great example this would be to others.

Don't get me wrong.  I AM NOT against social networking.  I do believe that we need to be careful in the way we use it.  I believe it is a great way to communicate but we must guard against being tempted in misusing it.  I would like to challenge every person that reads this and has some type of social network to use it in a positive way.  You can use positive quotes and even put daily scriptures to encourage others.  

So, is social networking good or bad?  It all depends on how you use it and control it.  Do you control it or does it control you? 

Two Dogs ~ Two Attitudes

We have two dogs in our home.  Both are Yorkies and both have two totally different personalities and attitudes.  Molly is our oldest.  She is actually a birthday gift for Ashlyn.  She is a little older and is very mild and "rolls with the punches".  She is pretty much set in her ways and just goes about her business.  She will sit by you and be relaxed as long as you have to pet her.    She is a little hyper when guests come over but settles down pretty quickly. 

Max is our other Yorkie.  He is younger (just turned 1) and has a totally different personality and attitude.  He is hyper except when he is sleeping.  He is full of energy but has a mind of his own.  He is as cute as Molly, but doesn't like to be bothered when he has found a comfortable place to rest.  It's not the fact that he doesn't like to be bothered, but it's how he shows it.  He will give a little "growl"; not a "I'm going to bite you" growl.  It's more of a "leave me alone" growl.  It's pretty funny. 

In fact, Max is sitting by me as I write and I disturbed him when I moved him over a little.  He just looked at me and gave me that little growl of "leave me a lone."  Molly is laying in the middle of the floor and would never think of growling at me if I went over to move her.  It's just funny how even dogs have different personalities and attitudes.

People have different attitudes and personalities and it is wise to treat them accordingly.  There is a book called "Personality Plus" by Florence Littauer that helped me and Krystal learn that people have different personalities and why they act or do what they do.  It was a great help.  I would highly recommend it.


We love our dogs.  They are always happy to see us when we get home and love us back.  But we also understand that each one has its own personality and attitudes.  What type of attitude/personality do you have?  Do you try to "roll with the punches" or do you "growl" to let others know they are bothering you? 

Power of Purpose

I get a daily devotional from John Maxwell called "Leadership Promises for Everyday".  This one was sent to me on January 9.  I believe that it is more than a leadership Promise/Principle, but a Life Principle.  Read this devotional and ponder on the bullet points of how a "Purpose" will affect you.


The Power of Purpose 
But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Philippians 1:12-14

Paul might have been forgiven had he chosen to take a little sabbatical as he sat in prison, awaiting his trial. Yet he used even this opportunity to advance the gospel. Paul was a leader who never drifted from his mission. He determined to leave his mark wherever he went.

How did Paul's sense of purpose keep him in the battle as he sat in prison? What did he learn behind bars? Consider the following:

• A purpose will motivate you.
• A purpose will keep your priorities straight.
• A purpose will develop your potential.
• A purpose will give you power to live in the present.
• A purpose will help you evaluate your progress.

(used from John Maxwell's daily devotional ~ "Leadership Promises for Everyday")


We all have a purpose but we must identify that purpose and live our life to fulfill it.  I want to encourage you to spend some time at the beginning of this year and evaluate how you are fulfilling your purpose in life.  Many people do this at the beginning of each year and it really does help us to stay focused.  
If you would like to subscribe to the "Leadership Promises for Everyday" daily devotional, Click Here

It is a great devotional that will inspire you and also challenge you.  Be blessed and be a blessing!