A New Season

Well, it is almost the end of March and everyone is ready for a new season. 
Weather is one of the big topics of conversation but it seems to be because of its lack of consistency.  We had a "tease" of warmer temperatures and people were already looking to do yard work, garden work, and outside improvements.  For us, we began looking ahead and planning for our summer vacation, which we still haven't decided on. 

Just when it was getting warmer, we hit a cold snap that brought a bit of snow, sleet and below normal temperatures.  The shorts and T-shirts went back into the draw and the coats, gloves and long-sleeved shirts came back out. The season didn't change when we really wanted it to.  It's the end of March and the average temperature, according to weather.com, should be 69 degrees not 38.

We also go through seasons in our life.  Many times those seasons don't work on our timetable.  One thing that I am learning about seasons in life is that they come and go.  Some seasons come too quickly and some don't leave soon enough.  The thing to remember about seasons is that they will come and go.  If you are in a tough season in your life right now, don't worry.  It will soon pass.  It may not be as quickly as you would like, but it will pass.

The Wheat family is entering a new season.  Ashlyn is in the last part of her Junior year in high school.  For the record, I'm not old enough for my daughter to be preparing for her senior year.  She has been getting more mail than anyone else in our house because of all the college correspondence.  That's a wake up call for any parent.  Mitchell is finishing up his year in the second grade.  Once again, it seems that time and seasons are going by way too fast.  Krystal is still in grad school and will be finished in December.  She has worked very hard and will complete her masters degree in counseling in an incredible time frame.  I will be finished with my degree in Church Ministries from Southwestern Assemblies of God University in just a few weeks.  I'll graduate on Friday, May 3.  Believe me when I say that I'm ready for that season to pass.  It has been a great experience and it has been an incredible experience.  

Seasons come and go.  You may be ready for a new season in your life.  Just remember, seasons have to run their course.  Seasons in life come and go just like the seasons in a year.  Sometimes the season, just like the weather, is above average or below average.  Always keep in mind, it is a season.

I'll leave us with the thought of the wisest man who ever lived.  His name was Solomon and he wrote the following:

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT)  For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. 2  A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. 3  A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. 4  A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. 5  A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. 6  A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. 7  A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. 8  A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace.

PROUD DAD!!!!

I know that people may get tired of hearing about other people's kids, but just indulge me if you will.  I was sitting at my computer doing some work tonight and in the background was the sound of a little seven year old playing his drums.  Now before you cringe, I must let you know they were his Christmas gift this year from us.  Listening to him play isn't bad.  It's jut loud.  He is actually keeping a good beat considering he has never taken a lesson and basically has learned from watching the drummers at church and also drummers on Youtube.  (Sidenote ~ it's amazing what you can learn how to do on Youtube.)  I almost told him to stop and find something else to do but then again, I am actually enjoying listening to him practice.  You see, I am a drummer and I remember all the times when I just sit and played and tried to improve.  Mitchell is already better than I was at seven.

Mitchell isn't the only one in our family who is talented when it comes to music.  Ashlyn plays the guitar and is good for a 16 year old.  She has practiced hard and really loves playing.  The guitar was just the beginning for her.  My dad gave her a box with different harmonicas in it that you can play for different keys.  She began trying them out and the next thing I know she is playing it during a worship song in church.  She already plays the guitar for worship and she was playing the harmonica as well that day.  Ashlyn loves Bluegrass.  Krystal, my wife, still hasn't figured that one out.  Not too long ago Ashlyn announced that she wanted to buy a banjo.  Within a couple of weeks she had found a potential banjo that she may purchase.  Once again, she just picked it up and plucked around on it.  As far as I knew she hadn't really had much time to pluck around on it.  Then me and Krystal entered the sanctuary a couple of weeks ago and the praise team had just began to play.  When I walked in the back door, someone in the back asked us, "Hey, when did Ashlyn start playing the banjo?"  I looked up and there she was on the platform playing the banjo.  It sounded great and that was when I realized she may be one of those people that can pick up an instrument and just like that begin playing it.  Oh, I didn't mention the ukulele that her grandparents got her for Christmas.  She is plucking on it now but I'm sure it won't be long until we hear a sweet melody coming from her room as she learns another instrument.

Yes, I am one proud dad but I am also thankful that both of our children love to play and use the gifts God has given to them for His glory.  Keep it up kids!!!   

Time With God

Time With God

A few months ago a man in our church came and shared that the Lord had placed on his heart to ask other men to come join him for a time of prayer.  He decided on Tuesday mornings at 6am.  This was a day that worked for him and others but it also would be a time that wouldn't be convenient as one would have to get up earlier than usual to come to pray.  There are days when several will come to the men's prayer time and there are times when there are a few.  There's no condemnation meant by that statement to those who don't make it.  It just simply happens that way sometimes.  There are also times when it seems the time flies by and it's hard to believe it has been an hour of prayer.  There are other Tuesday mornings when time seems to crawl.  I believe it comes down to understanding that prayer really is work.  You have to be intentional and work at prayer.

A few weeks ago during this time of prayer, God began to speak to me.  This thought came to my heart..... "God will only become as real to me as much as I let Him become real to me."  Think about that statement for a moment.  God will never force Himself on us.  He will only come as close to us as we will allow Him.  My prayer and desire is that I allow Him to be real in my life always.

By the way....since having this time of prayer with the men of the church we have seen God's Spirit move in a great way.  There have been people's lives changed.  I understand that it's not just because of the men's prayer on Tuesday mornings, but I do believe it is making a difference.

Times for No Time

Myrtle Beach, SC

Well, we are on our annual family vacation.  In fact, we only have a few more days left before we head back home to reality.  We love our family vacations and try to enjoy every moment.  A few years ago, I made a decision to take both of my weeks of vacation back to back.  We have really enjoyed the two week span.  For me, it takes almost the first whole week to unwind.  I guess that is good for me and the family as a whole.  This year we started our vacation by spending a few days in Nashville, TN.  It was a lot of fun and we enjoyed our sightseeing there.  Next we drove to Myrtle Beach, SC.  We had been there a few years ago and really enjoyed the area.  We usually like spending time in the mountains and that will always be our favorite, but we also have enjoyed spending time on the beach.  It is so relaxing in the late afternoon listening to the waves crash on the shore and watching the kids play in the water and sand.  We are ending our vacation time by stopping in Sevierville, TN.  It is the area close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and is in the Smoky Mountains.  It has been a lot of fun.

Sunset at Myrtle Beach, SC

I remember the morning when we were leaving the house.  I went into our bedroom to look one more time to make sure I hadn't left anything behind.  Then I saw it.  It was sitting on my dresser and I stopped and pondered if I would take it or not.  I actually looked at it and reasoned if I should take it or even if I would actually need it.  Sure I would need it.  I have it with me everyday.  I use it more than I ever can count during the day.  It is probably one of my most helpful items in my life.   But what would I do without it?  Can I actually leave it behind?  As I looked at it, I made the decision not to take it.  What was it?  It was my watch.  I can't remember when or if I have ever gone two weeks without wearing this item on my wrist to make sure I was "on time" or to see "what time it was".  But I had made my decision.  On vacation, I was going to make it my ambition and go live in a "Time for No Time".  Oh, there were moments when we needed to know what time to be at a show or when something was going to begin but for the most part, time hasn't been an issue.  When someone would ask, "What time is it?".  My response in my mind would be, "Who cares?"  We really haven't had any schedules and really haven't had the need for a watch.  It really has felt pretty good.

Ice Cream Snack

I know that in a few days, I will go to my dresser and put the watch back on my wrist.  In that moment, I will begin looking at it each day numerous times to make sure I am on time and I am where I need to be when I need to be there.  But for now and the next few days of vacation, I am going to live in a "Time For No Time."  Loving my family and loving our time together on our 2012 Family Vacation.

The Everlasting God

A couple of weeks ago during a quite prayer time, these thoughts began to come to my mind.  "We serve and everlasting God."  I began to write down a few thoughts about this.  

The Everlasting God....

• Has no beginning but began time.
• Has no ending but will end time.
• He is not created but has created everything.
• He is not in need of miracles but He is the miracle worker.
• He is not in need of anything but gives us everything we need.
• The heavens are His throne and the earth is His footstool but He has made it so we can sit with Him in heavenly places.
• The heavens cannot contain Him but He desires to come to earth and commune with His children.
• He is not in need of love but desires that we love Him.
• He knows my beginning and end but is still concerned with my life every minute that I live.

Wow, we serve and everlasting God but He is so personal to us.  He is not a God just out there somewhere, but He is a God who loves us and cares for us every minute that we live.  When you stop to think about how great our God is and how much He loves us, it really makes you want to love and serve Him daily.

Remember....We serve and Everlasting God.

Unreached People

I am sitting in a guest room in Calcutta, India.  Our church has a team of people who have come to do missions work with Calcutta Mercy Ministries in India.  Once again, this trip like the others has opened my eyes to people who don't have a personal relationship with Jesus. 

Ashlyn praying for a lady in India 

 

When we first arrived in Calcutta, we set out to a city named Ranchi.  It was an 8 hour train ride.  We met one of the pastors and also with the Assistant General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in that region.  These men have a heart to reach "Unreached People Groups".  Unreached People Groups are groups of people that have never heard of the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Children Praying in India

Pastor John, who is the Assistant General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, shared with that many of these people still live in the jungles of India.  I know it is hard for some of us to believe that there are still people who have never heard the name of Jesus.  It is true and we must do something.  Pastor John shared there were 32,000 villages with only 250 churches.  They estitmate that each village has approximately 10,000 people.  Wow!  3.2 million people with only 250 churches.  This lets me know that we need to be very intentional about church planting and reaching these people with the good news that Jesus loves them.  There are people are being reached but there are so many who have not heard.  There are schools that the children attend and are taught how to pray and to live for Jesus.  There are still so many who have not heard.

The Unreached...Africa

There seems to be a theme of what God is telling me.  The first of this year, I was privileged to a place in Africa to visit an area where people have never heard the name of Jesus.  I will not mention the particular name of this place because of the sensitivity of the area.  Men and women are putting their lives on the line to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the people of that area.  Once again, the Lord is speaking to me about being more intentional about taking the gospel to the "Unreached People Groups". 

I believe that each one of us can be a part of reaching those who have never heard about Jesus.  Stop and ask yourself, "What can I do?"  First of all we need to pray.  We need to pray that God will protect our missionaries but also pray that God would send laborers into these places to tell people about Jesus.  We also need to pray and ask God what we can do financially.  It is true.  Money is needed to start churches and to equip people to do the work of the ministry. 

So, here I sit here in Calcutta once again being challenged by God's Holy Spirit.  I would also like to challenge each person who is reading this to pray and ask God to speak to your heart.  Ask Him what you can do? 

We must reach the unreached because...."EVERY SOUL MATTERS".

You've Got Mail!

You’ve Got Mail

“You’ve Got Mail” is a famous line from the old movie “Sleepless In Seattle”.  The line actually comes from the voice from AOL that alerts a person that they have a new email message. 

This phrase came out of my mouth a few weeks ago when I told Mitchell and Ashlyn they had received a letter in the mail in our mailbox which is also known as “snail-mail”.  The reason why the letters and mail you get in your mailbox is called “snail-mail” is because it’s not as quick as an email.  But I would like to add that it might not be as personable either. 

Now before I am labeled as one who is against progress and technology, you need to know that I text, email, instant message, Skype, and use other means to communicate.  I am not against things that help with productivity.  They just don’t seem as personal (except for Skype) as a hand written letter or postcard.

I remember the thought I had when I said, “You’ve got Mail” to Mitchell not too long ago.  He came running into the kitchen to see who had sent him a letter.  Ashlyn does the same thing when told she has gotten mail.  The thought was, “We all have mail”.  We all have a letter sent to us from God.  It is His Word.  It is written with careful love and instruction so we can have the best life.  Just as that thought came to my mind, I had another question.  “Why don’t we get as excited about God’s mail (the Bible) as our children do about getting a letter in the mailbox? 

God’s Word has been written to us as a “letter of love”.  It guides us and instructs us how to run our business, families, marriages and so much more.  It’s more than just a set of rules and regulations. 

The Psalmist said, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  In other words, God’s Word is there to help me make decisions on a daily basis.

I hope that we can become more excited about God’s mail to us.  Many people spend a lot of time today checking people’s status on Facebook & Twitter, but I sometimes wonder if we spend just as much time in the greatest book we have available.  Remember, I’m not against technology.  I have a Facebook account and also a Twitter account.  I just want to make sure that I spend more time reading God’s love letter to me.

“You’ve Got Mail”…take time to read it and you’ll be amazed at how it will help guide your life. 

New Year Thoughts....

A New Year Is Here....

I can't believe that I am writing the year "2012" on my checks and other documents.  Does anyone remember the "Y2K" scare?  It seems like it was just yesterday. 

This New Year brings several things to my mind:

1.  EXCITEMT - Excited for the new opportunities that are ahead.  I am continuing to take classes this spring at SAGU (Southwestern Assemblies of God University).  In fact, this is something that I had started several years ago but paused the process.  I took a couple of classes at NWACC this past fall and enjoyed most of it.  I am also excited because Krystal is starting her Graduate work at Harding University as well.  I am very proud of her.

2.  ANXIOUS - I know the Bible tells us not to be "anxious" about anything, but this anxious feeling isn't worrying but probably more of an anticipation of the unknown.  At least that sounds better.  Because of the two parents going to school, Ashlyn's basketball schedule and Mitchell's schedule, our schedules will need to be somewhat guarded.  This is not an easy task when your "work" involves being around and loving people. 

3.  REFLECTION - I am reflecting on how life is precious and we are not promised tomorrow.  This is something that I never want to forget.  We are not promised tomorrow.  The Bible clearly reminds us that our life is a "vapor".  While it is here, we must make the most of every opportunity and tell those close to us that we love them each and every day.

4.  DESIRE - I have a desire to grow.  I desire to grow in my Christian walk with Jesus.  I also want to grow as a husband and father.  Leadership growth isn't an option either as I desire to lead and pastor the great people God has entrusted me with.  Growth doesn't automatically happen.  Three things I have learned about growth.  First, growth is a process and takes times.  Second, when you stop learning is when you stop growing.  Third, growing takes work.

I don't know if I would categorize these thoughts as resolutions, but just some things that come to mind as this New Year begins.  New opportunities that will bring excitement, reflection and accomplishments. 

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.