Christmas 2007 is over at the Smith household. Sue and I have experienced non-stop special times that began when we picked up Jamie, Kendall, Lauren and Alexandra from St. Louis International Airport Christmas morning. After getting them situated in two of our five bedrooms, Sue and I went back to the airport to get Rick, Cindy, and Hudson and delivered them to the third bedroom. Our bedrooms have stayed pretty much the way they were when our children lived here. Things were relatively quiet with only one small grandchild until Holly and Guy arrived with their two boys and a baby. Fourteen people were now in place to have beautiful chaos from Thursday until Sunday. Now the house is quiet and Sue and I have pledged to do nothing for a couple of days. To say that our house is a disaster area is putting it mildly, but what a special time each of us enjoyed.
It is very special to me to sit and watch the interaction between our children, their spouses, and the grandkids. There is always so much love that flows from each one. They truly love one another. The humor constantly puts you on the floor laughing. There is a serious touch of caring and the ever-present telling how much they love each other. That is pure joy for me.
Kendall was sick much of the time with a toothache. I know that is not fun, but he carried on very well under the constant pain. We took him to the dentist on Wednesday and he received antibiotics that eased the pain. One of the presents we always give the adults is a candy cane wrapped with a $100 bill. Jamie spent hers before we opened the many presents. Sue is incredible in buying, wrapping, and giving out presents. In spite of the work, she truly loves to give to our family.
We had turkey, ham, BBQ, and finally ham, beans and cornbread. One day, I made five trips to the Mid-town IGA. One of the employees said he had never seen me so much in all the years we have lived here. Paper plates, napkins, toilet paper, artificial sweetner, incredible numbers of coke, diet coke, caffeine free diet coke, mountain dew, dr. pepper, diet dr. pepper, caffeine free diet dr. pepper, pepsi, A&W Baptist Beer, donuts, and paper towels were but a few of the items purchased. Rick went with me several times and saw some people from the past.
Yesterday morning, Sue and I took Rick, Cindy and Hudson back to the airport for their trip back to Dallas. It is always sad when our children leave. This was no exception. This morning at 5 am, we took Jamie, Kendall, Lauren and Alex to the airport and found the largest crowd I have ever seen at the terminal. People we standing outside to get in. They barely made their flight. Later this morning, Holly, Guy, Jacob, Houston, Violet and Kona crammed themselves into a heavily packed van and left for Nashville. I believe Alexandra described Christmas with grandma and grandpa the best when she said:" Thank you grandpa, it was a blast."
Thank you Jesus for our family and your blessed birth.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
CHRISTMAS - 2007
Christmas is so much hard work. Sue goes 24 hours a day in preparation for the day when all of our children and grandchildren will be here. She ALWAYS does such a great job in decorating the house, shopping for all the presents, and preparing the meal. At dinner, we will remember that Jesus is truly the reason for the season and be grateful to our heavenly Father who made it all possible.
Christmas eve will be spent at Sue's parents' home. All of her family will be there and when our kids were still living in St. Charles, they were a large part of the evening. A highlight of Christmas past was when her father read the Christmas story from the King James version. He can no longer do that, so Sue's older brother will carry on the tradition.
Jamie and Rick's familes will be here Christmas evening while Holly and her troop will arrive the 26th or 27th. When they arrive, we will open presents. Rick has already sent presents by UPS.
As I look back over the years, I am grateful for the way God blended our family. No one was ever called stepfather, stepmother, stepbrother or stepsister. We truly blended and the girls wanted to call me dad and Rick wanted to call Sue mom from the very beginning. It seemed we immediately had a great family. Rick and I moved to St. Charles when he was four years old. It was just Rick and me for seven delightful years and then came Sue, Jamie and Holly and it was even better.
Sue and I have talked about buying a new house from time to time. Our children do NOT want us to do that. They love to come home. Their rooms are pretty much the same as when they lived here. Lauren and Alex, Jamie's two daughters have said to Sue and me: "Grandma and Grandpa, we just love to come to your house." Silently I ask myself why because they live in a much newer house. However, I love it.
After our children leave, Sue and I will go to Branson and have a short couple of days with our friends Ed and Janet Watkins.We always enjoy being with them. We will play dominos, discuss plans for the future, relax and thank God for His blessings on both families.
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas time and that 2008 is the very best year yet for you!!!!!!!
Christmas eve will be spent at Sue's parents' home. All of her family will be there and when our kids were still living in St. Charles, they were a large part of the evening. A highlight of Christmas past was when her father read the Christmas story from the King James version. He can no longer do that, so Sue's older brother will carry on the tradition.
Jamie and Rick's familes will be here Christmas evening while Holly and her troop will arrive the 26th or 27th. When they arrive, we will open presents. Rick has already sent presents by UPS.
As I look back over the years, I am grateful for the way God blended our family. No one was ever called stepfather, stepmother, stepbrother or stepsister. We truly blended and the girls wanted to call me dad and Rick wanted to call Sue mom from the very beginning. It seemed we immediately had a great family. Rick and I moved to St. Charles when he was four years old. It was just Rick and me for seven delightful years and then came Sue, Jamie and Holly and it was even better.
Sue and I have talked about buying a new house from time to time. Our children do NOT want us to do that. They love to come home. Their rooms are pretty much the same as when they lived here. Lauren and Alex, Jamie's two daughters have said to Sue and me: "Grandma and Grandpa, we just love to come to your house." Silently I ask myself why because they live in a much newer house. However, I love it.
After our children leave, Sue and I will go to Branson and have a short couple of days with our friends Ed and Janet Watkins.We always enjoy being with them. We will play dominos, discuss plans for the future, relax and thank God for His blessings on both families.
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas time and that 2008 is the very best year yet for you!!!!!!!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT NEW YORK
Sue wanted to go to NY to see the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and hear her song performed as part of the Tabernacle's Christmas program. She wanted me to tag along and so I did even as President Kennedy accompanied Jackie to Paris. It was a fun time for the two of us to have time together, attend the Christmas program, tour NY, learn the train schedules and walk, walk, walk.
The Brooklyn Tabernacle is, of course in Brooklyn. My earliest remembrances of Brooklyn had to do with the Dodgers before they sadly moved to Los Angles. The Tabernacle is located in the confines of a beautiful old theater. It is very ornate and its beauty is only exceeded by the friendliness of of the members. The auditorium has balcony boxes along the sides of the walls. When I was a kid in Springfield, those were my favorite seats at the Gilloiz Theater. Those boxes at the tabernacle were decorated with Christmas trees.
Here are some of my impressions of the Christmas program.
1. The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is BY FAR the best choir I have ever heard.
2. Taranda Greene sang Sue's song and it was incredible.
3. Taranda Greene sang "Oh, Holy Night" better than I have ever heard anyone sing it and I have heard some great ones.
4. Pastor Jim Cymbala is the real deal. Previously, I never liked having a pastor take over after a concert, the effect of which, for me, was to ruin the message of the concert. He was prepared and did a fantastic job in concluding the evening.
5. Carolyn Cymbala, Jim's wife, is a very talented and gracious lady who led the choir in such a dynamic way.
6. Tony and Taranda Greene are very special and kind people who can really sing our Lord's message.
7. I loved it when pastor Cymbala came out of his office and said: "Where is this great song writer?" When someone says something like that about Sue, it is an incredible blessing to me.
I liked Brooklyn even late at night.
If I lived in the NY area, I would not own a car.
It was fun walking around NY on Friday. We passed by so many beautiful decorations, people in a hurry, people from many different nations (does anyone live in NY?) heard so many different languages. Only English appeared to be missing. In Sue's blog, she went into detail about the various sites so i will not go that way. I loved the walking and my left bun was sore from all that exercise.
When we arrived home, we found nearly nine inches of snow in St. Charles. I like snow somewhere I am not; however, I must admit it was beautiful. The trip was great but there is no place like .....
The Brooklyn Tabernacle is, of course in Brooklyn. My earliest remembrances of Brooklyn had to do with the Dodgers before they sadly moved to Los Angles. The Tabernacle is located in the confines of a beautiful old theater. It is very ornate and its beauty is only exceeded by the friendliness of of the members. The auditorium has balcony boxes along the sides of the walls. When I was a kid in Springfield, those were my favorite seats at the Gilloiz Theater. Those boxes at the tabernacle were decorated with Christmas trees.
Here are some of my impressions of the Christmas program.
1. The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is BY FAR the best choir I have ever heard.
2. Taranda Greene sang Sue's song and it was incredible.
3. Taranda Greene sang "Oh, Holy Night" better than I have ever heard anyone sing it and I have heard some great ones.
4. Pastor Jim Cymbala is the real deal. Previously, I never liked having a pastor take over after a concert, the effect of which, for me, was to ruin the message of the concert. He was prepared and did a fantastic job in concluding the evening.
5. Carolyn Cymbala, Jim's wife, is a very talented and gracious lady who led the choir in such a dynamic way.
6. Tony and Taranda Greene are very special and kind people who can really sing our Lord's message.
7. I loved it when pastor Cymbala came out of his office and said: "Where is this great song writer?" When someone says something like that about Sue, it is an incredible blessing to me.
I liked Brooklyn even late at night.
If I lived in the NY area, I would not own a car.
It was fun walking around NY on Friday. We passed by so many beautiful decorations, people in a hurry, people from many different nations (does anyone live in NY?) heard so many different languages. Only English appeared to be missing. In Sue's blog, she went into detail about the various sites so i will not go that way. I loved the walking and my left bun was sore from all that exercise.
When we arrived home, we found nearly nine inches of snow in St. Charles. I like snow somewhere I am not; however, I must admit it was beautiful. The trip was great but there is no place like .....
Saturday, December 8, 2007
QUOTES AGAIN
It has been some time since I posted a number of quotes, so I thought just before Christmas might be a good time for this activity.
"Don't wish it was easier; wish you were better. Don't wish for less problems; wish for more skills. Don't wish for less challenges; wish for more wisdom."
Jim Rohn
"I am ready to meet my Maker - but whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter."
Winston Churchill
"I am absolutely convinced that with good leadership, freedom does not weaken discipline - it strengthens it. Free people have a powerful incentive not to screw up."
Captain D. Michael Abrashoff
former commander, USS Benfold
"Real communication happens when people feel safe."
Ken Blanchard
"The biggest battle going on every day is between your own ears."
Jack Canfield
"The true test of the effectiveness of the leader is this: Are your people better off when they leave than when they arrived."
James C. Hunter
"The first duty of any leader is to create more leaders."
A Wise General
"Leaders nurture a vision and at the right time declare it, so others can rally to the cause."
Bob Briner
"Leadership is a noble spiritual gift to be honored and highly esteemed."
Bob Briner
"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave."
Jesus
I have all kinds of leadership books in my shrinking library. At my age, I felt the necessity of giving a large number of books to my pastor. The books on leadership, however, remain as a special part of my life. I like sharing some of the thoughts with those of you who take time to read my blog.
Jesus is lord and so it will ever remain.
"Don't wish it was easier; wish you were better. Don't wish for less problems; wish for more skills. Don't wish for less challenges; wish for more wisdom."
Jim Rohn
"I am ready to meet my Maker - but whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter."
Winston Churchill
"I am absolutely convinced that with good leadership, freedom does not weaken discipline - it strengthens it. Free people have a powerful incentive not to screw up."
Captain D. Michael Abrashoff
former commander, USS Benfold
"Real communication happens when people feel safe."
Ken Blanchard
"The biggest battle going on every day is between your own ears."
Jack Canfield
"The true test of the effectiveness of the leader is this: Are your people better off when they leave than when they arrived."
James C. Hunter
"The first duty of any leader is to create more leaders."
A Wise General
"Leaders nurture a vision and at the right time declare it, so others can rally to the cause."
Bob Briner
"Leadership is a noble spiritual gift to be honored and highly esteemed."
Bob Briner
"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave."
Jesus
I have all kinds of leadership books in my shrinking library. At my age, I felt the necessity of giving a large number of books to my pastor. The books on leadership, however, remain as a special part of my life. I like sharing some of the thoughts with those of you who take time to read my blog.
Jesus is lord and so it will ever remain.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
CROSSING PATHS
I continue to be a person that God places special people in my life at just the right time. When I need a boost or a confirmation regarding a decision, a "God-Thing" always happens.
In high school, I didn't even know I needed direction from God. He, however, sent Howard Butt and Frank Boggs to Springfield for a youth revival sponsored by a college young peoples' group. A few of us from Greenwood went to a college assembly and heard Butt speak and Boggs sing. That experience planted a seed.
When I was an undergraduate, I was struggling with a decision about changing schools. A strong Christian believer was God's person to speak to me and help me take the right direction. He never knew he influenced me.
I was at Glorietta Baptist Assembly for student week when my parents called and said I had been drafted into the United States Army. That was a bit of a low for me, but after arriving at the Army base, I met a Chaplain who was just the right person to provide the proper direction for me and made it possible for me to attend Baylor University.
It was perhaps the lowest part of my life when I lacked direction and confidence. My secretary encouraged me by saying that I had so much going for me; however, she never knew or realized that her comments were so greatly needed and meant so much to me.
In the living room of my home in Springfield a good friend made a statement about divorce that spoke to me. He said that divorce is falling short of God's ideal. God's ideal is for one man and one woman to remain together, but like so many other areas of life where we fall short of God's ideal, divorce is also one of them. He didn't know he helped me.
Another friend pointed out to me a truth that continues to be a blessing. He said: "Influence is so much more important than power." That still strikes a chord in my life and helps me in leadership.
You have undoubtedly helped someone by something you said or a deed you accomplished, yet you are unaware of it. As believers in Christ, let us join together to share some of the things we have experienced or some wisdom Christ has given us with those with whom our paths cross. In the movie "Radio," Ed Harris said maybe he should not have done all those things for the boy they called "Radio." Debra Winger, his wife, said: "Helping someone is always a good thing!" Debra didn't know she was preaching a great sermon.
In high school, I didn't even know I needed direction from God. He, however, sent Howard Butt and Frank Boggs to Springfield for a youth revival sponsored by a college young peoples' group. A few of us from Greenwood went to a college assembly and heard Butt speak and Boggs sing. That experience planted a seed.
When I was an undergraduate, I was struggling with a decision about changing schools. A strong Christian believer was God's person to speak to me and help me take the right direction. He never knew he influenced me.
I was at Glorietta Baptist Assembly for student week when my parents called and said I had been drafted into the United States Army. That was a bit of a low for me, but after arriving at the Army base, I met a Chaplain who was just the right person to provide the proper direction for me and made it possible for me to attend Baylor University.
It was perhaps the lowest part of my life when I lacked direction and confidence. My secretary encouraged me by saying that I had so much going for me; however, she never knew or realized that her comments were so greatly needed and meant so much to me.
In the living room of my home in Springfield a good friend made a statement about divorce that spoke to me. He said that divorce is falling short of God's ideal. God's ideal is for one man and one woman to remain together, but like so many other areas of life where we fall short of God's ideal, divorce is also one of them. He didn't know he helped me.
Another friend pointed out to me a truth that continues to be a blessing. He said: "Influence is so much more important than power." That still strikes a chord in my life and helps me in leadership.
You have undoubtedly helped someone by something you said or a deed you accomplished, yet you are unaware of it. As believers in Christ, let us join together to share some of the things we have experienced or some wisdom Christ has given us with those with whom our paths cross. In the movie "Radio," Ed Harris said maybe he should not have done all those things for the boy they called "Radio." Debra Winger, his wife, said: "Helping someone is always a good thing!" Debra didn't know she was preaching a great sermon.
CROSSING PATHS
I continue to be a person that God places special people in my life at just the right time. When I need a boost or a confirmation regarding a decision, a "God-Thing" always happens.
In high school, I didn't even know I needed direction from God. He, however, sent Howard Butt and Frank Boggs to Springfield for a youth revival sponsored by a college young peoples' group. A few of us from Greenwood went to a college assembly and heard Butt speak and Boggs sing. That experience planted a seed.
When I was an undergraduate, I was struggling with a decision about changing schools. A strong Christian believer was God's person to speak to me and help me take the right direction. He never knew he influenced me.
I was at Glorietta Baptist Assembly for student week when my parents called and said I had been drafted into the United States Army. That was a bit of a low for me, but after arriving at the Army base, I met a Chaplain who was just the right person to provide the proper direction for me and made it possible for me to attend Baylor University.
It was perhaps the lowest part of my life when I lacked direction and confidence. My secretary encouraged me by saying that I had so much going for me; however, she never knew or realized that her comments were so greatly needed and meant so much to me.
In the living room of my home in Springfield a good friend made a statement about divorce that spoke to me. He said that divorce is falling short of God's ideal. God's ideal is for one man and one woman to remain together, but like so many other areas of life where we fall short of God's ideal, divorce is also one of them. He didn't know he helped me.
Another friend pointed out to me a truth that continues to be a blessing. He said: "Influence is so much more important than power." That still strikes a chord in my life and helps me in leadership.
You have undoubtedly helped someone by something you said or a deed you accomplished, yet you are unaware of it. As a believer in Christ, let us join together to share some of the things we have experienced or some wisdom Christ has given us with those with whom our paths cross. In the movie "Radio," Ed Harris said maybe he should not have done all those things for the boy they called "Radio." Debra Winger, his wife, said: "Helping someone is always a good thing!" Debra didn't know she was preaching a great sermon.
In high school, I didn't even know I needed direction from God. He, however, sent Howard Butt and Frank Boggs to Springfield for a youth revival sponsored by a college young peoples' group. A few of us from Greenwood went to a college assembly and heard Butt speak and Boggs sing. That experience planted a seed.
When I was an undergraduate, I was struggling with a decision about changing schools. A strong Christian believer was God's person to speak to me and help me take the right direction. He never knew he influenced me.
I was at Glorietta Baptist Assembly for student week when my parents called and said I had been drafted into the United States Army. That was a bit of a low for me, but after arriving at the Army base, I met a Chaplain who was just the right person to provide the proper direction for me and made it possible for me to attend Baylor University.
It was perhaps the lowest part of my life when I lacked direction and confidence. My secretary encouraged me by saying that I had so much going for me; however, she never knew or realized that her comments were so greatly needed and meant so much to me.
In the living room of my home in Springfield a good friend made a statement about divorce that spoke to me. He said that divorce is falling short of God's ideal. God's ideal is for one man and one woman to remain together, but like so many other areas of life where we fall short of God's ideal, divorce is also one of them. He didn't know he helped me.
Another friend pointed out to me a truth that continues to be a blessing. He said: "Influence is so much more important than power." That still strikes a chord in my life and helps me in leadership.
You have undoubtedly helped someone by something you said or a deed you accomplished, yet you are unaware of it. As a believer in Christ, let us join together to share some of the things we have experienced or some wisdom Christ has given us with those with whom our paths cross. In the movie "Radio," Ed Harris said maybe he should not have done all those things for the boy they called "Radio." Debra Winger, his wife, said: "Helping someone is always a good thing!" Debra didn't know she was preaching a great sermon.
CROSSING PATHS
I continue to be a person that God places special people in my life at just the right time. When I need a boost or a confirmation regarding a decision, a "God-Thing" always happens.
In high school, I didn't even know I needed direction from God. He, however, sent Howard Butt and Frank Boggs to Springfield for a youth revival sponsored by a college young peoples' group. A few of us from Greenwood went to a college assembly and heard Butt speak and Boggs sing. That experience planted a seed.
When I was an undergraduate, I was struggling with a decision about changing schools. A strong Christian believer was God's person to speak to me and help me take the right direction. He never knew he influenced me.
I was at Glorietta Baptist Assembly for student week when my parents called and said I had been drafted into the United States Army. That was a bit of a low for me, but after arriving at the Army base, I met a Chaplain who was just the right person to provide the proper direction for me and made it possible for me to attend Baylor University.
It was perhaps the lowest part of my life when I lacked direction and confidence. My secretary encouraged me by saying that I had so much going for me; however, she never knew or realized that her that her comments were so greatly needed and meant so much to me.
In the living room of my home in Springfield a good friend made a statement about divorce that spoke to me. He said that divorce is falling short of God's ideal. God's ideal is for one man and one woman to remain together, but like so many other areas of life where we fall short of God's ideal, divorce is also one of them. He didn't know he helped me.
Another friend pointed out to me a truth that continues to be a blessing. He said: "Influence is so much more important than power." That still strikes a chord in my life and helps me in leadership.
You have undoubtedly helped someone by something you said or a deed you accomplished, yet you are unaware of it. As a believer in Christ, let us join together to share some of the things we have experienced or some wisdom Christ has given us with those with whom our paths cross. In the movie "Radio," Ed Harris said maybe he should not have done all those things for the boy they called "Radio." Debra Winger, his wife, said: "Helping someone is always a good thing!" Debra didn't know she was preaching a great sermon.
In high school, I didn't even know I needed direction from God. He, however, sent Howard Butt and Frank Boggs to Springfield for a youth revival sponsored by a college young peoples' group. A few of us from Greenwood went to a college assembly and heard Butt speak and Boggs sing. That experience planted a seed.
When I was an undergraduate, I was struggling with a decision about changing schools. A strong Christian believer was God's person to speak to me and help me take the right direction. He never knew he influenced me.
I was at Glorietta Baptist Assembly for student week when my parents called and said I had been drafted into the United States Army. That was a bit of a low for me, but after arriving at the Army base, I met a Chaplain who was just the right person to provide the proper direction for me and made it possible for me to attend Baylor University.
It was perhaps the lowest part of my life when I lacked direction and confidence. My secretary encouraged me by saying that I had so much going for me; however, she never knew or realized that her that her comments were so greatly needed and meant so much to me.
In the living room of my home in Springfield a good friend made a statement about divorce that spoke to me. He said that divorce is falling short of God's ideal. God's ideal is for one man and one woman to remain together, but like so many other areas of life where we fall short of God's ideal, divorce is also one of them. He didn't know he helped me.
Another friend pointed out to me a truth that continues to be a blessing. He said: "Influence is so much more important than power." That still strikes a chord in my life and helps me in leadership.
You have undoubtedly helped someone by something you said or a deed you accomplished, yet you are unaware of it. As a believer in Christ, let us join together to share some of the things we have experienced or some wisdom Christ has given us with those with whom our paths cross. In the movie "Radio," Ed Harris said maybe he should not have done all those things for the boy they called "Radio." Debra Winger, his wife, said: "Helping someone is always a good thing!" Debra didn't know she was preaching a great sermon.
Friday, November 23, 2007
ARCHIE A. LYLE - A MIRACLE- PART TWO
Archie graduated from Baylor and enrolled in the seminary in Ft. Worth. While studying at the seminary, he was pastor of a church in a nearby town. At the beginning of that pastorate, the local newspaper ran a story about Archie and someone who read the story called him and told him of a man with the same name who lived in Jonesboro, AR. Archie wondered if this man could be his father and made the trip from Texas to Jonesboro to seek the answer. He found the man with the same name and asked him if he knew the lady who was his mother. Making a long story short, this man was his father. After meeting him, Archie never saw him again.
Doing well in his Texas pastorate, Archie had several churches talking to him about becoming their pastor. One such church was the church in Missouri where he found Jesus. While pastoring this church, they became the second leading church in baptisms in Missouri, so Archie was on his way. Lorene, his wife, was a strong teacher and a great supporter of missions. This was a good combination in the leading of the church.
After resigning his church, Archie was on his way to Peoria, IL with some other folks and was involved in a terrible accident. Archie, a passenger in the car in which he was riding, was the sole survivor. Three individuals were killed in that collision. I had just returned from Ridgecrest, NC after singing with One Accord. I drove to Springfield, IL where Archie was in critical condition in a hospital in the Illinois capital. His head was greatly swollen, with his hairline pulled back to the center of his head. Archie always had great hair. Slowly the swelling disappeared and Archie recovered. Because of the accident however, Archie's short-term memory was greatly affected. He can still remember the days at Baylor with no problem, but sometimes has trouble remembering where he is. A short while ago, he went to the grocery store and could not remember how to get home and ended up close to Kansas City. I gave him one of my cards to put in his wallet and told him to call me anytime he had a problem.
Archie continues to be a testimony for keeping on when circumstances scream to stop. His favorite sermon that he preaches is" Four Things God Doesn't Know:" 1. God doesn't know a sinner He doesn't Love; 2. God doesn't know a sin He doesn't hate; 3. God doesn't know a better plan of salvation; 4. God doesn't know a better time to be saved than right now. He can still preach that sermon and he still loves our Lord Jesus.
Doing well in his Texas pastorate, Archie had several churches talking to him about becoming their pastor. One such church was the church in Missouri where he found Jesus. While pastoring this church, they became the second leading church in baptisms in Missouri, so Archie was on his way. Lorene, his wife, was a strong teacher and a great supporter of missions. This was a good combination in the leading of the church.
After resigning his church, Archie was on his way to Peoria, IL with some other folks and was involved in a terrible accident. Archie, a passenger in the car in which he was riding, was the sole survivor. Three individuals were killed in that collision. I had just returned from Ridgecrest, NC after singing with One Accord. I drove to Springfield, IL where Archie was in critical condition in a hospital in the Illinois capital. His head was greatly swollen, with his hairline pulled back to the center of his head. Archie always had great hair. Slowly the swelling disappeared and Archie recovered. Because of the accident however, Archie's short-term memory was greatly affected. He can still remember the days at Baylor with no problem, but sometimes has trouble remembering where he is. A short while ago, he went to the grocery store and could not remember how to get home and ended up close to Kansas City. I gave him one of my cards to put in his wallet and told him to call me anytime he had a problem.
Archie continues to be a testimony for keeping on when circumstances scream to stop. His favorite sermon that he preaches is" Four Things God Doesn't Know:" 1. God doesn't know a sinner He doesn't Love; 2. God doesn't know a sin He doesn't hate; 3. God doesn't know a better plan of salvation; 4. God doesn't know a better time to be saved than right now. He can still preach that sermon and he still loves our Lord Jesus.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
ARCHIE A. LYLE - A MIRACLE
Archie A. Lyle is a long-time friend of mine. We met in a Greek class at Baylor. Archie has overcome unbelieveable diffictulties to even be living. He lived with his mother until he was 3. He never saw his dad. His mother left the home (if you could call it that) one time and put him in a tow-sack and nailed the sack to the wall with him in it. I know that is hard to believe, but never-the-less is true. At age 3, his mother gave him away and he was placed with foster parents. (Many years later, Archie had the privilege of leading his mother to the Lord when she was on her death bed).
While in high school, Archie joined the National Guard. He was 15 at the time. At age 16, he resigned from the National Guard, dropped out of high school and joined the Marines. Upon arrival at Paris Island, he was asked by the Marine barber where he was from. He said "St. Louis." The barber replied: "Well, you better start singing the St. Louis Blues because your hair is about to come off.
By the age of 17, Archie was on his way to Korea. He landed at Pusan and then made the trip by ship to Inchon which is on the Yellow Sea side of Korea and a few miles west of Seoul. Their unit made its way to the capital city and fought their way to Chosan, which is just a few miles south of the Chinese border in North Korea. Shortly after battling their way that far north, China came into the war and surrounded Archie's unit. The temperature was 38 degrees below freezing and they turned and started fighting in the opposite direction. Archie was shot in the cartridge belt and he yelled out: "Three clicks to the left and you got me." The clicks were on the sight of the gun. He stopped to eat in the cold and had rice. He started eating the rice and it kept moving around and he discovered it was magots. He fought his away across the 100 miles from Chosan to Hungnam where the United States Navy was there for the rescue. Out of 300 in his company, he was one of 12 that made it out of the trap.
Archie returned to the United States and married Lorene Willoughby. He went to a trade school and became a journeyman painter. In the early 1950's, Archie felt the call to preach. He had no education, but took the GED and passed. When the letter came, he had Lorene read it because he was afraid he failed. He passed and with his wife and now two daughters, went to Texas and enrolled in Tyler Jr. College. He then became the pastor of a Baptist church and learned to preach while on the job.
The story will continue next time.
While in high school, Archie joined the National Guard. He was 15 at the time. At age 16, he resigned from the National Guard, dropped out of high school and joined the Marines. Upon arrival at Paris Island, he was asked by the Marine barber where he was from. He said "St. Louis." The barber replied: "Well, you better start singing the St. Louis Blues because your hair is about to come off.
By the age of 17, Archie was on his way to Korea. He landed at Pusan and then made the trip by ship to Inchon which is on the Yellow Sea side of Korea and a few miles west of Seoul. Their unit made its way to the capital city and fought their way to Chosan, which is just a few miles south of the Chinese border in North Korea. Shortly after battling their way that far north, China came into the war and surrounded Archie's unit. The temperature was 38 degrees below freezing and they turned and started fighting in the opposite direction. Archie was shot in the cartridge belt and he yelled out: "Three clicks to the left and you got me." The clicks were on the sight of the gun. He stopped to eat in the cold and had rice. He started eating the rice and it kept moving around and he discovered it was magots. He fought his away across the 100 miles from Chosan to Hungnam where the United States Navy was there for the rescue. Out of 300 in his company, he was one of 12 that made it out of the trap.
Archie returned to the United States and married Lorene Willoughby. He went to a trade school and became a journeyman painter. In the early 1950's, Archie felt the call to preach. He had no education, but took the GED and passed. When the letter came, he had Lorene read it because he was afraid he failed. He passed and with his wife and now two daughters, went to Texas and enrolled in Tyler Jr. College. He then became the pastor of a Baptist church and learned to preach while on the job.
The story will continue next time.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
A VISIT TO SPRINGFIELD
Springfield, Missouri is my hometown. I still have a number of friends there as well as a few relatives. One thing is missing when I return to that city. I always had a place to stay when my parents were living. Now that they are deceased, I feel a bit like an orphan when I return. I always like to drive by the house that my parents owned for so many years. It is a large yellow brick house that one real estate person said was one of the ten best built homes in Springfield. After my parents died, the people who bought the house trashed it and it was sad to see what they did. Now, someone else owns the house and they have restored it pretty much to the place it was when my parents were living. When I lived in Springfield, I owned a three story English Colonial home. Inside, it was very special with a large living room and a fire place. There were so many special things about that house that I wished that I could have moved it to St. Charles and Sue would have had a blast putting her touch on the inside.
I had a meeting with Ken McClure and Dale Moore. Both of these gentlemen are employed by Missouri State University. I have known Dale for a short time, but I have known Ken for many years. He has had several important jobs for the state of Missouri. He was director of budget research for the Senate Appropiations Committee; He was a judge for the public service commission; He was the chief of staff for Governor Matt Blunt. It is always fun to be around Ken. One time in the 1970's we were singing at a church that had a dress code. For men, your hair could not touch your ears or your shirt color. He sent me a little drawing of a man with a crew cut and under the picture wrote "Jesus." The pew I was sitting in shook as I tried to control my laughter. Ken, Dale, and I are talking about forming a Southern Gospel Quartet and I have lined up the necessary personnel. I can't sing worth a lick anymore because of sinus, but I may be able to play the piano. Bill Ursury and Scott Landon from our church will join us and this has the potential of being a pretty good quartet.
While in Springfield, I met with Arthur Mallory, who is a special friend. Arthur is the former president of Missouri State University and the former Commissioner of Education for our state. He always has great insight into any area of education and I like to run ideas past him. He told me about a man who has taken the job as interim president of a university. Arthur told him that he will want to be the president and that has come about. He asked Arthur what he should do as a president. His reply was that he should walk around the campus and speak to the students, smile a lot, and pick up pieces of paper both inside and outside the buildings. If he would do those things, he would be a successful president. Arthur began the Parents as Teachers program that now is in many foreign countries as well as the U. S. A former president of the Missouri Baptist Convention, Arthur SERVED our denomination very well. He is one of my heroes.
Dave and Bitty Fay are long-time friends. Dave and I went to high school together and were best friends. I dated Bitty and we have always been good friends. They invite me to stay with them and that is always enjoyable. This time, Bitty got out some old pictures from dances we attended and Dave forwarded them to me. I sent them to Sue to see if she could pick me out and she did that with little trouble. Dave and Bitty will come to St. Louis this summer, stay with us and we will go see the Cardinals.
I am fortunate to have a few good friends who have been friends for such a long time. God is good all the time.
I had a meeting with Ken McClure and Dale Moore. Both of these gentlemen are employed by Missouri State University. I have known Dale for a short time, but I have known Ken for many years. He has had several important jobs for the state of Missouri. He was director of budget research for the Senate Appropiations Committee; He was a judge for the public service commission; He was the chief of staff for Governor Matt Blunt. It is always fun to be around Ken. One time in the 1970's we were singing at a church that had a dress code. For men, your hair could not touch your ears or your shirt color. He sent me a little drawing of a man with a crew cut and under the picture wrote "Jesus." The pew I was sitting in shook as I tried to control my laughter. Ken, Dale, and I are talking about forming a Southern Gospel Quartet and I have lined up the necessary personnel. I can't sing worth a lick anymore because of sinus, but I may be able to play the piano. Bill Ursury and Scott Landon from our church will join us and this has the potential of being a pretty good quartet.
While in Springfield, I met with Arthur Mallory, who is a special friend. Arthur is the former president of Missouri State University and the former Commissioner of Education for our state. He always has great insight into any area of education and I like to run ideas past him. He told me about a man who has taken the job as interim president of a university. Arthur told him that he will want to be the president and that has come about. He asked Arthur what he should do as a president. His reply was that he should walk around the campus and speak to the students, smile a lot, and pick up pieces of paper both inside and outside the buildings. If he would do those things, he would be a successful president. Arthur began the Parents as Teachers program that now is in many foreign countries as well as the U. S. A former president of the Missouri Baptist Convention, Arthur SERVED our denomination very well. He is one of my heroes.
Dave and Bitty Fay are long-time friends. Dave and I went to high school together and were best friends. I dated Bitty and we have always been good friends. They invite me to stay with them and that is always enjoyable. This time, Bitty got out some old pictures from dances we attended and Dave forwarded them to me. I sent them to Sue to see if she could pick me out and she did that with little trouble. Dave and Bitty will come to St. Louis this summer, stay with us and we will go see the Cardinals.
I am fortunate to have a few good friends who have been friends for such a long time. God is good all the time.
Friday, November 2, 2007
SPECIAL PEOPLE
In high school, I had the privilege of knowing George Kieffer. George was and is such a good natured person. We often teased him in a good natured way. Dan Rich and I often had fun at George's expense and we enjoyed his reaction to many of our attempts to tease him. Sometimes in class, Dan would sit on one side of George and I would sit on the other side. One of us would reach for one of George's leg in order to squeeze it just above the knee. When George would react to to that squeeze the other of us would squeeze the other leg and we always enjoyed George's loud reaction. Frequently, we would put a tack on the chair before he arrived for class knowing full-well that when George "got the point," he would yell out. We had such a good time when he did "get the point." Two days a week, we had choir first hour. George lived across the street from school and he was always late to choir. We found out later that he had three sisters and only one bathroom. We would see him running across campus and it always provided a laugh for the entire choir. The great thing about George was that he was so good natured and I realized that if there was anything wrong with our relationship, it had to be my fault. In our senior yearbook, he wrote the following: "You've been one of my best friends in spite of the calouses on my knees." At our last reunion, George, Dan and I enjoyed talking about those early days.
In college, I met another fellow who had the same makeup as George. His name is Wayne Nelson. I have never seen Wayne out of sorts about anything. He just operates on an even keel. One time, we were in Kansas City and on our way to William Jewell College to see our friend Gordon Kinsgley and play some tennis ball. On the express way, I pointed out that there was a highway patrol officer ahead of us. Wayne's response: "What's the speed temperature?" Whenever one of our friends or I would be mad about something, Wayne was always the same. I have played a lot of basketball and softball with Wayne and whether he won or lost, he was always the same. If he made an error or missed a shot in basketball, his respone was always "My aching back!!" Last summer, he and a few of our freinds met at our house and we played "Horse." He and I were the last two standing and we must have hit 10 shots in a row before he finally missed and I won the game. His response was "My aching back."
It is interesting that both George and Wayne became ministers of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus. Both continue to reflect the love of Christ in their devotion and disposition. They enjoy a good time as would Jesus. Not only would I like to be more like Jesus, I would like to be more like George and Wayne. They truly represent our Lord in a special way.
In college, I met another fellow who had the same makeup as George. His name is Wayne Nelson. I have never seen Wayne out of sorts about anything. He just operates on an even keel. One time, we were in Kansas City and on our way to William Jewell College to see our friend Gordon Kinsgley and play some tennis ball. On the express way, I pointed out that there was a highway patrol officer ahead of us. Wayne's response: "What's the speed temperature?" Whenever one of our friends or I would be mad about something, Wayne was always the same. I have played a lot of basketball and softball with Wayne and whether he won or lost, he was always the same. If he made an error or missed a shot in basketball, his respone was always "My aching back!!" Last summer, he and a few of our freinds met at our house and we played "Horse." He and I were the last two standing and we must have hit 10 shots in a row before he finally missed and I won the game. His response was "My aching back."
It is interesting that both George and Wayne became ministers of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus. Both continue to reflect the love of Christ in their devotion and disposition. They enjoy a good time as would Jesus. Not only would I like to be more like Jesus, I would like to be more like George and Wayne. They truly represent our Lord in a special way.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
WAJ - 2007 RELATIONSHIPS
Each year as the date for the Write About Jesus Workshop gets closer to the opening evening, Sue gets into her feelings of not having any idea as to writing a new song and becomes totally focused on making the workshop one that those attending will find inspiration not only to write better, but be a better Christian.
Developing a program for both experienced writers and those in the initial stages of writing for Jesus is not an easy task. Fortunately, we have a faculty who is good in both areas. As important as improving as a writer and learning the technical skills that are required, it appears to me (not a writer) that perhaps the best thing that comes out of WAJ is relationships. In the field of education, I have long insisted that emphasizing the four "R's" is vital. Reading, "Riting," "Rithemetic," and Relationships This should be part of the curriculum of every school and especially in Christian schools.
I felt something special at this year's WAJ. From the beginning in 2000, there has always been a good spirit; however, this year a special spirit was something that was unseen, but very real. There appeared to be a spirit of unity, helpfulness, a universal desire to learn, and warmth. Perhaps it was the influence of Jesus that was present in each of us. I know I want more of whatever it was. In the competition there was not a spirit of competition. It seemed like everyone was pulling for everyone to do well and if someone else won, that was ok with the other competitors. That has to be the influence of Jesus. Through the workshop and the discussion board, we are building a Christian family that is getting better, not only at writing, but at caring for others in the family. That is relationship building and I am grateful to all the registrants and clinicians for making this happen.
Developing a program for both experienced writers and those in the initial stages of writing for Jesus is not an easy task. Fortunately, we have a faculty who is good in both areas. As important as improving as a writer and learning the technical skills that are required, it appears to me (not a writer) that perhaps the best thing that comes out of WAJ is relationships. In the field of education, I have long insisted that emphasizing the four "R's" is vital. Reading, "Riting," "Rithemetic," and Relationships This should be part of the curriculum of every school and especially in Christian schools.
I felt something special at this year's WAJ. From the beginning in 2000, there has always been a good spirit; however, this year a special spirit was something that was unseen, but very real. There appeared to be a spirit of unity, helpfulness, a universal desire to learn, and warmth. Perhaps it was the influence of Jesus that was present in each of us. I know I want more of whatever it was. In the competition there was not a spirit of competition. It seemed like everyone was pulling for everyone to do well and if someone else won, that was ok with the other competitors. That has to be the influence of Jesus. Through the workshop and the discussion board, we are building a Christian family that is getting better, not only at writing, but at caring for others in the family. That is relationship building and I am grateful to all the registrants and clinicians for making this happen.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
The Ugliest Old Lady Who Had Great Influence
Aunt Jane Prestige grew up in Texas a long time ago during the reconstruction period of our nation's history. She married at an early age and had two children. Her husband died early in their marriage leaving her with the two children and a lot of work to do. She literally built their home. She split the rail, placed logs and lumber into place, painted, cooked, maintained the yard, took care of the animals. My friend Chaplain (Lt Col) John H. Brown said she had one and half teeth and they didn't meet. Because of what she did to keep her family going, everyone respected Aunt (as they say in Texas "Aint") Jane. It always seemed to take a long time to walk in front of her house. If you asked as question such as "Think it will rain Aunt Jane?" Her reply was straight to the point. "Your thinker is as good as mine, what do you think?"
Chaplain Brown said she preached the greatest sermon he ever heard and she preached it on her front porch. She said: "John, I've seen happy days and I've seen sorrowful days, but through it all, I can say blessed be the name of the Lord." My guess is that she didn't give that thought much attention, but it was incredibly moving to Chaplain Brown. Without her knowing it or having any idea that this was meaningful to someone, that message has been preached in Army chapels around the world. It has been preached on ships at sea and on the battlefields of Korea. It has been a message that has touched soldiers, sailors, marines, and civilians in the United States and Europe. I continue to share the story and some of those who hear me will continue the legacy.
You don't have to have a college education, be a commercial Christian songwriter, a professor, or a minister to have a message. Sometimes the great messages come from unexpected places. That makes listening very important.
Chaplain Brown said she preached the greatest sermon he ever heard and she preached it on her front porch. She said: "John, I've seen happy days and I've seen sorrowful days, but through it all, I can say blessed be the name of the Lord." My guess is that she didn't give that thought much attention, but it was incredibly moving to Chaplain Brown. Without her knowing it or having any idea that this was meaningful to someone, that message has been preached in Army chapels around the world. It has been preached on ships at sea and on the battlefields of Korea. It has been a message that has touched soldiers, sailors, marines, and civilians in the United States and Europe. I continue to share the story and some of those who hear me will continue the legacy.
You don't have to have a college education, be a commercial Christian songwriter, a professor, or a minister to have a message. Sometimes the great messages come from unexpected places. That makes listening very important.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
ANOTHER DIRECTOR OF INFLUENCE
Russell Newport is a friend of mine. I grew up in his choir at First Baptist Church in Springfield, MO. About a year before I joined the choir, he assumed the position of director. The choir at that time was both small and ineffective. Russell accepted the position as choir director temporarily for fourteen years. A basic policy he introduced was if you didn't come to choir practice, you didn't sing. When I missed practice or a Sunday service, I would go a long way out of my way to keep from seeing Russell. Harmon Chapman was a member of the choir and was also an artist for his high school newspaper. Each practice, Harmon would draw a cartoon and circulate it among members of the choir. We were practicing to present a concert of "The Elijah," by Felix Mendleson. One of the cartoons Harmon drew was of a little bearded man standing next to Russell with a caption of Russell speaking to the bearded man. It read: "I don't care if your name is Felix Mendelson, you haven't been to choir practice and you can't sing with us." Another cartoon pictured Russell with a machine gun in his hand saying: "Sing Altos! Sing!" I remember a practice when we were rehearsing an anthem and Russell stopped the choir and said: "It's Naaaked ladies, not Neked."
Russell has a Bachelor's degree from William Jewell and a Master's in business from Harvard. For several years he owned several dime stores in Southwest Missouri. My friend Bob Speake once said that if you wanted a full days work, all you had to do was follow Russell.
Russell was a great positive influence on so many young people at FBC. He gave voice lessons to members of his choir without remuneration. My friend Jerry McMahon became very interested in Christian music and singing because of Russell, a believer who generously gave of his time to so many different people and causes.
What I haven't told you is what a great singer he is. Russell always said that if you sang properly, you could be a good singer all your life. Now in his middle 80's, Russell is still a great tenor. I mean great tenor. He could have been a star with the Metropolitan Opera in New York if had chosen to accept their offer. He studied voice at the New England Conservatory and also in Los Angeles and San Francisco. He has been tenor soloist with symphony orchestras and oratorio societies around the world. He appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and as soloist on ABC and CBS religious presentations.
Most of all, Russell loves the Lord Jesus. Rather than embarking on the singing road in the secular world, he chose to serve Christ with his marvelous vocal instrument. No one, I mean No one can sing "The Holy City" like Russell. I will ever be greatful for his influence on me.
Russell has a Bachelor's degree from William Jewell and a Master's in business from Harvard. For several years he owned several dime stores in Southwest Missouri. My friend Bob Speake once said that if you wanted a full days work, all you had to do was follow Russell.
Russell was a great positive influence on so many young people at FBC. He gave voice lessons to members of his choir without remuneration. My friend Jerry McMahon became very interested in Christian music and singing because of Russell, a believer who generously gave of his time to so many different people and causes.
What I haven't told you is what a great singer he is. Russell always said that if you sang properly, you could be a good singer all your life. Now in his middle 80's, Russell is still a great tenor. I mean great tenor. He could have been a star with the Metropolitan Opera in New York if had chosen to accept their offer. He studied voice at the New England Conservatory and also in Los Angeles and San Francisco. He has been tenor soloist with symphony orchestras and oratorio societies around the world. He appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and as soloist on ABC and CBS religious presentations.
Most of all, Russell loves the Lord Jesus. Rather than embarking on the singing road in the secular world, he chose to serve Christ with his marvelous vocal instrument. No one, I mean No one can sing "The Holy City" like Russell. I will ever be greatful for his influence on me.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
A DIRECTOR OF INFLUENCE
On the long bus ride from Kansas City, MO to Ft. Leonard Wood, I had several hours to contemplate what would lie ahead for me in the United States Army. After receiving uniforms, equipment, an orientation, and a fancy haircut it was Sunday and so I thought it would be the right thing to go to chapel. I was surprised to find a chapel full of young men and a chaplain who preached a great sermon. I went back that night and became acquainted with Chaplain (Major) John H. Brown. His name was as common as mine.
Chaplain Brown was an officer of great influence. A chaplain really has no power, but he can have great influence. In the reception station at Ft. Wood, Chaplain Brown was greatly respected throughout the unit. The cadre loved him because he was often in the company areas not only meeting them, but also the recruits. Sgt. Martin was Catholic, but he loved Chaplain Brown and often made his Sunday announcement like this: "Protestant worship services begin in ten minutes. All men who want to go to church fall out to my right and I will pick my details from those left!" Of course, nearly everyone got in line to go to church.
Services at the chapel where Chaplain Brown preached were always filled to capacity not only because of announcements like those of Sgt. Martin, but because he preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was one of the best pulpiteers I have heard. We would often go on field trips and have services in the field for the men.
Chaplain Brown served our country in Korea. Some of the stories he shared with me were both inspirational and sobbering. One day he and his assistant were in a jeep pulling a trailer up a hill and they kept hearing what he called a "Chinese Burp Gun." Some Americans came running down the hill and told them to turn around because the Chinese were coming by the thousands. Chaplain Brown told his assistant to turn the jeep around and unhook the trailer and get out of there. His assistant said he could turn the jeep around but for him to get out and start running. With bullets hitting all around him, Chaplain Brown crossed a river and climbed a ledge to safety. Later he asked about his assistant and found him. Brown was told that it was a good thing that he left because there were bullet holes through the windshield in front of where he had been riding.
At Ft Wood, Chaplain Brown was moved from the reception station to the 5th Training Regiment because of the jealousy of the Post Chaplain. In that unit, the crowds became so large that they had to move their services from the chapel to one of the movie theaters. After that, a new post chaplain wanted him to move to the fort's housing area and try to build up Sunday School. I left Baylor that summer and helped him organize a new Sunday School. My job was to get it all on paper. His job was to get people to fill the various positions. In June there was a regular attendance of 150. The first Sunday of September was the first Sunday for the new Sunday School and there were over 800 in attendance. People followed him, not because of any power he had, but because of his great influence.
I would like to be that kind of person - a real director of influence.
Chaplain Brown was an officer of great influence. A chaplain really has no power, but he can have great influence. In the reception station at Ft. Wood, Chaplain Brown was greatly respected throughout the unit. The cadre loved him because he was often in the company areas not only meeting them, but also the recruits. Sgt. Martin was Catholic, but he loved Chaplain Brown and often made his Sunday announcement like this: "Protestant worship services begin in ten minutes. All men who want to go to church fall out to my right and I will pick my details from those left!" Of course, nearly everyone got in line to go to church.
Services at the chapel where Chaplain Brown preached were always filled to capacity not only because of announcements like those of Sgt. Martin, but because he preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was one of the best pulpiteers I have heard. We would often go on field trips and have services in the field for the men.
Chaplain Brown served our country in Korea. Some of the stories he shared with me were both inspirational and sobbering. One day he and his assistant were in a jeep pulling a trailer up a hill and they kept hearing what he called a "Chinese Burp Gun." Some Americans came running down the hill and told them to turn around because the Chinese were coming by the thousands. Chaplain Brown told his assistant to turn the jeep around and unhook the trailer and get out of there. His assistant said he could turn the jeep around but for him to get out and start running. With bullets hitting all around him, Chaplain Brown crossed a river and climbed a ledge to safety. Later he asked about his assistant and found him. Brown was told that it was a good thing that he left because there were bullet holes through the windshield in front of where he had been riding.
At Ft Wood, Chaplain Brown was moved from the reception station to the 5th Training Regiment because of the jealousy of the Post Chaplain. In that unit, the crowds became so large that they had to move their services from the chapel to one of the movie theaters. After that, a new post chaplain wanted him to move to the fort's housing area and try to build up Sunday School. I left Baylor that summer and helped him organize a new Sunday School. My job was to get it all on paper. His job was to get people to fill the various positions. In June there was a regular attendance of 150. The first Sunday of September was the first Sunday for the new Sunday School and there were over 800 in attendance. People followed him, not because of any power he had, but because of his great influence.
I would like to be that kind of person - a real director of influence.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
REUNION TIME
Friday, September 7 was the day for our high school reunion. The day began early for me as I had to chair a meeting of MOHELA that began at 8:00 am. I was dressed in slacks, shirt, tie, and sport jacket. At 10:00 am, I dismissed myself from the meeting and started the 210 mile drive to Springfield.
There was not a time for me to change my dress because our group was to leave Springfield at 2 pm for the bus ride to Branson. Everyone else was dressed appropiately for Branson. I was still in my board meeting attire. At Branson, suddenly the rain stopped and the sun came out and I was still in my more formal dress. It was very hot as we toured the Landing and then ate at the Candlestick Inn, which overlooks Branson. After the Soji Tabuchi (spelling) Show, we returned to Springfield and finally at 11 pm I was able to switch to pajamas.
We were able to tour the original Greenwood building on the campus of Missouri State University which now houses the School of Education. The building shows wear and tear after all these years, but we enjoyed reliving special days of an earlier life. There was a swimming pool in the building and it now houses the ceramic division of the art department. Ceramic materials are now in the pool structure which is plainly in view. We then toured the new Greenwood and had lunch in one of the Commons areas of Missouri State University.
In the evening, we dined at Riverside Inn in Ozark, MO and had a time of remembrance as well as a skit, and trying to remember the businesses on the Springfield square when we were in high school. I gave out a lot of door prizes, including an autographed baseball by Lou Brock for Jerry Fallin's grandson.
Sunday we met informally in an area of Fay Ollis's apartment. Wayne Niederhuth, our class president, gave a devotional and then I went to the piano and we sang some Christian choruses. Good time!!
For me, the most striking thing about those in attendance, was their Christian commitment. Our original class had 28 members. Six are now deceased and 17 attended the reunion. Mike is a trustee in his church; Paul is a trustee in his church;
Wayne is a pastor; Jerry is a leader in his church, FBC-Orlando, Fl: George is a pastor, David, Beverly, Barbara, Ann, Gigi, and Bill are active in their churches.
Today, I went to the Christian Businessmen's Prayer Breakfast. Cal Thomas was the speaker. God is really GOOD.
There was not a time for me to change my dress because our group was to leave Springfield at 2 pm for the bus ride to Branson. Everyone else was dressed appropiately for Branson. I was still in my board meeting attire. At Branson, suddenly the rain stopped and the sun came out and I was still in my more formal dress. It was very hot as we toured the Landing and then ate at the Candlestick Inn, which overlooks Branson. After the Soji Tabuchi (spelling) Show, we returned to Springfield and finally at 11 pm I was able to switch to pajamas.
We were able to tour the original Greenwood building on the campus of Missouri State University which now houses the School of Education. The building shows wear and tear after all these years, but we enjoyed reliving special days of an earlier life. There was a swimming pool in the building and it now houses the ceramic division of the art department. Ceramic materials are now in the pool structure which is plainly in view. We then toured the new Greenwood and had lunch in one of the Commons areas of Missouri State University.
In the evening, we dined at Riverside Inn in Ozark, MO and had a time of remembrance as well as a skit, and trying to remember the businesses on the Springfield square when we were in high school. I gave out a lot of door prizes, including an autographed baseball by Lou Brock for Jerry Fallin's grandson.
Sunday we met informally in an area of Fay Ollis's apartment. Wayne Niederhuth, our class president, gave a devotional and then I went to the piano and we sang some Christian choruses. Good time!!
For me, the most striking thing about those in attendance, was their Christian commitment. Our original class had 28 members. Six are now deceased and 17 attended the reunion. Mike is a trustee in his church; Paul is a trustee in his church;
Wayne is a pastor; Jerry is a leader in his church, FBC-Orlando, Fl: George is a pastor, David, Beverly, Barbara, Ann, Gigi, and Bill are active in their churches.
Today, I went to the Christian Businessmen's Prayer Breakfast. Cal Thomas was the speaker. God is really GOOD.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Greenwood High School - Springfield, MO
My mother enrolled me in Greenwood shortly after I was born. I began formal education in Greenwood's kindergarten along with 29 other children, a class of 15 boys and 15 girls. Greenwood was not a private school, but a school located on the campus of Missouri State University that served as a training school for prospective teachers. I was blessed to have excellent teachers along the way and spent 13 years in that school.
It is interesting to note that even with 30 young people in our class, each one graduated from high school and matriculated into college. Not everyone graduated from college, but most did. Still today, I enjoy relationships with several of those classmates.
This weekend, I will return to Springfield for a reunion with at least 17 members of my class. Of the original group, six have died which makes the turnout for the weekend remarkable. We plan to go by bus to Branson for dinner and the Shoji Tobuchi Show. The trip to and from Branson should be a good time catching up because we always take up where we left off. On Saturday, we will visit the building that housed Greenwood when we were students. It is now the education building of Missouri State. Memories will be voiced and so many good times remembered. Saturday evening, we will meet for dinner at Riverside Inn in Ozark, MO. My uncle Will Keltner took me there when I was about 3years old. During the evening, we will have some entertainment by a couple of classmates, a challenge of their recall about Springfield, and I am going to give each member of the class some kind of remembrance of the evening. I plan to give Jerry Fallin a baseball autographed by Lou Brock for his grandson. Sue helped produce a mini-yearbook of those who will attend the reunion. In that little book are answers to some questions and pictures of classmates, their families, a look at the old days and a view of previous reunions. Sue worked that into her altogether too busy schedule and if there is one person who has no appreciation of the book, they will have to deal with me.
Sunday morning, we will meet for brunch and a message from our class president, Wayne Niederhuth. Wayne is a pastor and has also served as a Navy Chaplain. We will sing a few choruses of praise before ending the reunion. It is so special that almost all members of the class are active in a church. My first remembrance of the hymn "Oh Come, All Ye Faithful" was not singing it in church, but in the processional to begin the elementary Christmas program at Greenwood.
Sharing these remembrances on the blog is for my benefit I guess. I hope it rings a bell of thanksgiving for all that God has given you. God truly is SO good.
It is interesting to note that even with 30 young people in our class, each one graduated from high school and matriculated into college. Not everyone graduated from college, but most did. Still today, I enjoy relationships with several of those classmates.
This weekend, I will return to Springfield for a reunion with at least 17 members of my class. Of the original group, six have died which makes the turnout for the weekend remarkable. We plan to go by bus to Branson for dinner and the Shoji Tobuchi Show. The trip to and from Branson should be a good time catching up because we always take up where we left off. On Saturday, we will visit the building that housed Greenwood when we were students. It is now the education building of Missouri State. Memories will be voiced and so many good times remembered. Saturday evening, we will meet for dinner at Riverside Inn in Ozark, MO. My uncle Will Keltner took me there when I was about 3years old. During the evening, we will have some entertainment by a couple of classmates, a challenge of their recall about Springfield, and I am going to give each member of the class some kind of remembrance of the evening. I plan to give Jerry Fallin a baseball autographed by Lou Brock for his grandson. Sue helped produce a mini-yearbook of those who will attend the reunion. In that little book are answers to some questions and pictures of classmates, their families, a look at the old days and a view of previous reunions. Sue worked that into her altogether too busy schedule and if there is one person who has no appreciation of the book, they will have to deal with me.
Sunday morning, we will meet for brunch and a message from our class president, Wayne Niederhuth. Wayne is a pastor and has also served as a Navy Chaplain. We will sing a few choruses of praise before ending the reunion. It is so special that almost all members of the class are active in a church. My first remembrance of the hymn "Oh Come, All Ye Faithful" was not singing it in church, but in the processional to begin the elementary Christmas program at Greenwood.
Sharing these remembrances on the blog is for my benefit I guess. I hope it rings a bell of thanksgiving for all that God has given you. God truly is SO good.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
FUN DAY WITH A GREAT LADY AND MAN
Yesterday (Aug 28) was such a fun day spent with Lou and Jackie Brock at their home and at MOHELA. For those who are not baseball fans, Lou played for the St. Louis Cardinals and had over 3000 hits and 938 stolen bases in his illustrious career. He still holds more World Series records than any other player in the history of major league baseball. Both Lou and Jackie are outstanding Christians and it is always special when Jackie prays. The Holy Spirit takes us to the throne of grace and touches the very heart of God. The Brocks have been instrumental in establishing worship services each year during the Hall of Fame induction day at the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.
In 2002, Lou was presented with the Horatio Alger Award for Distinguished Americans along with Judge Clarence Thomas of the United States Supreme Court, former Secretary of State Heny Kissinger, etc. Obviously, not every one receives this award and is inducted into this society.
Lou is extremely intelligent. It is always fun to have a Biblical discussion with him. He has great insight into spiritual matters. He said: "I had a lot of successes in baseball, but to me success is when you make the most of your natural abilities and combine that with a spiritual awareness in such a way that you are living according to the Word of God - then you have true success." Brock recalls that before each game he said a prayer during the national anthem. "I still say that prayer when I wake up," he says. "I thank the Lord for the breath of life and then I say, "Let your will be done today - not mine." That prayer gives me the courage and strength to do what needs to be done each day of my life."
As we walked through the work stations of MOHELA, people reached out to touch him, shake hands with him, get an autograph and/or picture. Employees of MOHELA thought of friends and parents who would have loved to have the opportunity just to be with him. They also loved Jackie's ring from the 2006 World Series.
In the book, "Only in America," Lou has written the following on the inside of the book:
"To: John and Sue
We love you!
Lou Brock and Rev. Jackie Brock
Now that is SPECIAL!
In 2002, Lou was presented with the Horatio Alger Award for Distinguished Americans along with Judge Clarence Thomas of the United States Supreme Court, former Secretary of State Heny Kissinger, etc. Obviously, not every one receives this award and is inducted into this society.
Lou is extremely intelligent. It is always fun to have a Biblical discussion with him. He has great insight into spiritual matters. He said: "I had a lot of successes in baseball, but to me success is when you make the most of your natural abilities and combine that with a spiritual awareness in such a way that you are living according to the Word of God - then you have true success." Brock recalls that before each game he said a prayer during the national anthem. "I still say that prayer when I wake up," he says. "I thank the Lord for the breath of life and then I say, "Let your will be done today - not mine." That prayer gives me the courage and strength to do what needs to be done each day of my life."
As we walked through the work stations of MOHELA, people reached out to touch him, shake hands with him, get an autograph and/or picture. Employees of MOHELA thought of friends and parents who would have loved to have the opportunity just to be with him. They also loved Jackie's ring from the 2006 World Series.
In the book, "Only in America," Lou has written the following on the inside of the book:
"To: John and Sue
We love you!
Lou Brock and Rev. Jackie Brock
Now that is SPECIAL!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
PLANNING TIME
It has been a little more than a week since I have blogged. During that time, I have been planning a reunion for my high school class. I started attending Greenwood in kindergarten and finished high school at that same institution. Greenwood is an interesting institution in that it remains the only school of its kind in Missouri. Located on the campus of Missouri State University in Springfield, Greenwood has been a training school for prospective teachers since its inception 100 years ago. We always had a number of student teachers. If prospective teachers could survive our class, we knew they would make good teachers. When I was there, we had 15 boys and 15 girls in each class. Athletically, we always had really good teams and defeated schools that were much larger. The Greenwood of 2007 is much different. Tuition is much, much, much higher and by law they cannot dictate the number of boys or girls in a class. Sadly, that meant the end of the football program that had been so successful. Those in my class, however, still have so many memories of good times shared and lessons learned. I believe the arrangements we have made for the reunion will be well-received by all of us.
For some time, I have been giving thought to how the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA) can help the students in the St. Louis School District to not only want to go to college, but help them financially to do so. Helping in high school is too late, so my focus is on kindergarten. The first kindergarten in the United States was in the St. Louis School District. Once a very proud and effective district, their performance of late on standardized testing has been deplorable. These negative results have caused the state of Missouri to take over the responsibilities of running the district from the elected Board of Education. On August 20, the MOHELA Board will have an opportunity to approve a program that will begin to move the St. Louis School District in a positive direction. MOHELA has hired my friend Ed Wtkins to help get corporations in St. Loouis to line up with MOHELA to finally achieve the goal of once again having a great school district in St. Louis. I will write more about this later if the MOHELA approves our plan.
I am too old to be having this much fun. Regardless, it is happening
For some time, I have been giving thought to how the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA) can help the students in the St. Louis School District to not only want to go to college, but help them financially to do so. Helping in high school is too late, so my focus is on kindergarten. The first kindergarten in the United States was in the St. Louis School District. Once a very proud and effective district, their performance of late on standardized testing has been deplorable. These negative results have caused the state of Missouri to take over the responsibilities of running the district from the elected Board of Education. On August 20, the MOHELA Board will have an opportunity to approve a program that will begin to move the St. Louis School District in a positive direction. MOHELA has hired my friend Ed Wtkins to help get corporations in St. Loouis to line up with MOHELA to finally achieve the goal of once again having a great school district in St. Louis. I will write more about this later if the MOHELA approves our plan.
I am too old to be having this much fun. Regardless, it is happening
Friday, July 27, 2007
A LOT OF STUFF
Holly and Guy Zabka, our younger daughter and son-in-law, are delightful and talented young people. What oftentimes ends in disaster became a classic marriage after the soon-to-be mother-in-law introduced them. Guy comes from an excellent Christian and talented family, his father having written the original theme song for the long running television NBC program called "The Tonight Show." Guy's brother, Billy, was the mean kid in the movie "The Karate Kid." Holly was chosen to be a member of the varisty St. Charles High Dance line when she was a freshman and a cheerleader in her junior and senior years. Enrolling in Missouri State University, Holly was a member of the university's dance squad known as the Sugar Bears. Following graduation from MSU, Holly became a cheerleader for the St. Louis Rams. She grew up singing with One Accord and ended up loving Christian music.
Holly and Guy just had a beautiful baby girl. When Granddad says beautiful, we know it has to be true. If you have one brain, you cannot help but see the hand of God in the birthing process. How precious that is and to think that Jesus came into the world through the process is almost unbelievable. Almost unbelievable!
The Zabka's two sons, Jacob 6, and Houston 3, were at first a bit standoffish with their little sister, but now have warmed to the addition to their family. Those boys make me laugh and be grateful for their lives. I told Jacob I was going to arrange for him to go to a baseball camp next summer sponsored by the St. Louis Cardinals. He told me he already knew how to play baseball.
Sue and I have a little car for the grandkids to drive on the basketball court in our backyard. Houston says it is his car and grandpa says it is his. We tease each other as each says "my car."
I came home on Saturday to face some challenges which I will share at another time. Sue and I are indeed grateful for Jesus, family, and friends.
It's getting close to WAJ!!! Watch for announcements on the web site.
Holly and Guy just had a beautiful baby girl. When Granddad says beautiful, we know it has to be true. If you have one brain, you cannot help but see the hand of God in the birthing process. How precious that is and to think that Jesus came into the world through the process is almost unbelievable. Almost unbelievable!
The Zabka's two sons, Jacob 6, and Houston 3, were at first a bit standoffish with their little sister, but now have warmed to the addition to their family. Those boys make me laugh and be grateful for their lives. I told Jacob I was going to arrange for him to go to a baseball camp next summer sponsored by the St. Louis Cardinals. He told me he already knew how to play baseball.
Sue and I have a little car for the grandkids to drive on the basketball court in our backyard. Houston says it is his car and grandpa says it is his. We tease each other as each says "my car."
I came home on Saturday to face some challenges which I will share at another time. Sue and I are indeed grateful for Jesus, family, and friends.
It's getting close to WAJ!!! Watch for announcements on the web site.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
PEOPLE OF INFLUENCE - PART TWO
Last week, I began a series of blogs on people of influence. In continuing this process, I have thought of several folks who have exhibited influence on my life. Today, I want to focus on my wife, Sue, who has grown into a person of influence.
As a public school teacher, a person has little power over her students, but can greatly influence them. Sue was a high school journalism teacher and at one time also taught English and drama. What a schedule - yearbook, newspaper, dramatic productions. Sue did her job and did it well. After taking some time off to work for One Accord, Sue went back to teaching. Finally, she had only journalism and English to teach. Producing the high school newspaper was also part of that job. Properly influencing students in journalism is an area of great need in our country and Sue did just that in underscoring the responsibility of making sure stories are accurate, truthful, and well-written. Editorially speaking, many radio, TV stations and newspapers should embrace Sue's teachings. During these years, many of her students went on to college and have shared with her how much the years in her classes have meant to them. On the wall in our office is a plaque from her students at Hazelwood West that reads:
Mrs. Sue Smith
The Great Advisor at Hazelwood West
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord.
"Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give
you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
With Love from the 1998-99 Gazette Staff
Josten's Yearbook Company representative, Jim Combs, said Sue was one of the two best journalism teachers in the greater St. Louis region.
She went off to Nashville as a relatively unknown "Want to Be" Christian writer with the desire to be the best she could be. She has influenced so many aspiring writers personally and through WAJ. Like her mentor, Dave Clark, she is just as happy when one of her friends finds success in the writing field as when she does. She loves sharing her experience and expertise, the result of which is a number of people who write about Jesus better than they ever have. WAJ is a story of influence in itself.
Sue is greatly loved by her parents. Can you believe how very proud they are of her accomplishments? It was their influence as Christian parents that made her the special person she is today.
As a mother, she is dearly loved by Jamie, Rick, and Holly. They love to say that Sue Smith is their mother. She is just as proud to say that they are her daughters and son. Sue's consistent godly life has influenced each of them to be more like her in the endeavors in which they find themselves. Each of our children always, always tells her how much they love her. Influence? You better believe it. Our son-in-law, Kendall Lucas, is minister of praise and worship at the Denton Bible Church in Denton, TX. He loves to tell folks about the music his mother-in-law writes.
Sue is a great wife. We are not together as often as many married couples, but that is alright because it has allowed her to follow her dream. She has, by example, lived the Christian life in front of me. Influence? You better believe it.
Growing up, my early heroes were Stan Musial in baseball and the Blackwood Brothers and Statesmen in Christian music. Today, Lou Brock is a hero, not only because of all he accomplished as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals, but because of his commitment as a Christian. All these folks were and are people of influence. Into that category has come Sue Smith. Influence? You better believe it.
As a public school teacher, a person has little power over her students, but can greatly influence them. Sue was a high school journalism teacher and at one time also taught English and drama. What a schedule - yearbook, newspaper, dramatic productions. Sue did her job and did it well. After taking some time off to work for One Accord, Sue went back to teaching. Finally, she had only journalism and English to teach. Producing the high school newspaper was also part of that job. Properly influencing students in journalism is an area of great need in our country and Sue did just that in underscoring the responsibility of making sure stories are accurate, truthful, and well-written. Editorially speaking, many radio, TV stations and newspapers should embrace Sue's teachings. During these years, many of her students went on to college and have shared with her how much the years in her classes have meant to them. On the wall in our office is a plaque from her students at Hazelwood West that reads:
Mrs. Sue Smith
The Great Advisor at Hazelwood West
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord.
"Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give
you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
With Love from the 1998-99 Gazette Staff
Josten's Yearbook Company representative, Jim Combs, said Sue was one of the two best journalism teachers in the greater St. Louis region.
She went off to Nashville as a relatively unknown "Want to Be" Christian writer with the desire to be the best she could be. She has influenced so many aspiring writers personally and through WAJ. Like her mentor, Dave Clark, she is just as happy when one of her friends finds success in the writing field as when she does. She loves sharing her experience and expertise, the result of which is a number of people who write about Jesus better than they ever have. WAJ is a story of influence in itself.
Sue is greatly loved by her parents. Can you believe how very proud they are of her accomplishments? It was their influence as Christian parents that made her the special person she is today.
As a mother, she is dearly loved by Jamie, Rick, and Holly. They love to say that Sue Smith is their mother. She is just as proud to say that they are her daughters and son. Sue's consistent godly life has influenced each of them to be more like her in the endeavors in which they find themselves. Each of our children always, always tells her how much they love her. Influence? You better believe it. Our son-in-law, Kendall Lucas, is minister of praise and worship at the Denton Bible Church in Denton, TX. He loves to tell folks about the music his mother-in-law writes.
Sue is a great wife. We are not together as often as many married couples, but that is alright because it has allowed her to follow her dream. She has, by example, lived the Christian life in front of me. Influence? You better believe it.
Growing up, my early heroes were Stan Musial in baseball and the Blackwood Brothers and Statesmen in Christian music. Today, Lou Brock is a hero, not only because of all he accomplished as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals, but because of his commitment as a Christian. All these folks were and are people of influence. Into that category has come Sue Smith. Influence? You better believe it.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
PEOPLE OF INFLUENCE - PART ONE
More and more I am interested in people of influence and so I am beginning a series of blogs about people who have had great influence on my life.
To begin, I have to start with my parents. My dad was born in the family home on a farm between Ozark and Springfield, MO. He only went to the 8th grade because he was needed on the farm. Later, he went to work for a company owned by his uncle in Springfield and sold butter to grocery stores in that city. When asked how he met his wife, his response always was at the zoo where she was in a cage. Later, my father became a wholesale milk salesman for Foremost Dairy. He chose a route that went to Branson long before Branson was a great place to vacation. I remember he would often break the roads on snowy mornings just so the people who lived in that area could have their milk. He serviced them in a creative way. There was a restaurant in Forsyth, MO called "Paul's Cafe." Paul was having difficulty in obtaining meat delivered from a Crane, MO meat company. My dad said he went to Crane every day and he would deliver the meat order to Paul. That is just one example of his caring. Taking care of people six days a week, getting up early every day to meet people's need. I don't think he ever saw me play football, basketball, tennis, or run track because of his work. He was a great role model for a son. Early on, I can't remember his saying that he loved me, but I knew he did. In his family, that just wasn't done. Later, he did say that not only to me, but to Sue, Jamie, Rick, and Holly. He went to Sunday School and church regularly, and helped in any way he could. He was a good and faithful husband and father.
My mother took care of me in the formative years not only because she wanted to, but because of my father' job. She enrolled me in Greenwood where I went to school for 13 years, beginning in kindergarten. She was strict. I still have the 15 inch ruler she often applied to my backside. She was always incredibly interested in me and my activities. In adulthood, I jokingly called her "Nosey Mary." She would sit me down and inquire what was going on in my life. She did the same to Rick before Sue and I were married. In the years when it was just Rick and me, she would always want to help if he were ill. As a believer, she helped introduce me to Jesus and took me to the pastor's study to confirm my decision. My mother and Mrs. Leona Jones often sang duets in sunday schoold departments. They would practice over the phone. My mother was an alto, so you can imagine how that sounded on our end of the phone. When I was home, she would have me play the piano when they practiced and also when they sang in front of folks. She was president of the Women" Missionary Union of FBC, Springfield, and loved researching stories of those who served as missionaries. She attend most of my programs in elementary school and a few of my athletic endeavors in high school. Later in life, she managed the Kentwood Arms Hotel, which was THE hotel in Springfield. My mother was a classy and attractive lady.
What was the influence of my father and mother? Let's take a look:
1. She told me about Jesus and influenced my decision to accept Him as Savior.
2. They were both role models of a godly life.
3. Without a doubt they revealed their love for me.
4. They were interested in my activities and later in life, came to One Accord concerts in cities a good distance from Springfield.
5. They loved Sue, Jamie, Rick, and Holly very much.
6. They helped me financially many times.
7. We are always lovingly received when visiting them.
8. They took care of Rick and me when we were ill.
9. They saw that I had a good education.
10. They saw to it that I learned how to play the piano.
They were married for 65 years, before my mother passed away in 1993. My dad died in 1998. Some kind of influence!
To begin, I have to start with my parents. My dad was born in the family home on a farm between Ozark and Springfield, MO. He only went to the 8th grade because he was needed on the farm. Later, he went to work for a company owned by his uncle in Springfield and sold butter to grocery stores in that city. When asked how he met his wife, his response always was at the zoo where she was in a cage. Later, my father became a wholesale milk salesman for Foremost Dairy. He chose a route that went to Branson long before Branson was a great place to vacation. I remember he would often break the roads on snowy mornings just so the people who lived in that area could have their milk. He serviced them in a creative way. There was a restaurant in Forsyth, MO called "Paul's Cafe." Paul was having difficulty in obtaining meat delivered from a Crane, MO meat company. My dad said he went to Crane every day and he would deliver the meat order to Paul. That is just one example of his caring. Taking care of people six days a week, getting up early every day to meet people's need. I don't think he ever saw me play football, basketball, tennis, or run track because of his work. He was a great role model for a son. Early on, I can't remember his saying that he loved me, but I knew he did. In his family, that just wasn't done. Later, he did say that not only to me, but to Sue, Jamie, Rick, and Holly. He went to Sunday School and church regularly, and helped in any way he could. He was a good and faithful husband and father.
My mother took care of me in the formative years not only because she wanted to, but because of my father' job. She enrolled me in Greenwood where I went to school for 13 years, beginning in kindergarten. She was strict. I still have the 15 inch ruler she often applied to my backside. She was always incredibly interested in me and my activities. In adulthood, I jokingly called her "Nosey Mary." She would sit me down and inquire what was going on in my life. She did the same to Rick before Sue and I were married. In the years when it was just Rick and me, she would always want to help if he were ill. As a believer, she helped introduce me to Jesus and took me to the pastor's study to confirm my decision. My mother and Mrs. Leona Jones often sang duets in sunday schoold departments. They would practice over the phone. My mother was an alto, so you can imagine how that sounded on our end of the phone. When I was home, she would have me play the piano when they practiced and also when they sang in front of folks. She was president of the Women" Missionary Union of FBC, Springfield, and loved researching stories of those who served as missionaries. She attend most of my programs in elementary school and a few of my athletic endeavors in high school. Later in life, she managed the Kentwood Arms Hotel, which was THE hotel in Springfield. My mother was a classy and attractive lady.
What was the influence of my father and mother? Let's take a look:
1. She told me about Jesus and influenced my decision to accept Him as Savior.
2. They were both role models of a godly life.
3. Without a doubt they revealed their love for me.
4. They were interested in my activities and later in life, came to One Accord concerts in cities a good distance from Springfield.
5. They loved Sue, Jamie, Rick, and Holly very much.
6. They helped me financially many times.
7. We are always lovingly received when visiting them.
8. They took care of Rick and me when we were ill.
9. They saw that I had a good education.
10. They saw to it that I learned how to play the piano.
They were married for 65 years, before my mother passed away in 1993. My dad died in 1998. Some kind of influence!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
REFLECTIONS OF THE WEEK
Thursday evening, I picked up Dr. Arthur Mallory at the Drury Hotel and took him to a restaurant where we met the Senior Management Staff of the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). We had a great time getting acquainted and sharing thoughts about MOHELA.
Friday morning, Arthur and I went to MOHELA Headquarters where we spent the next several hours listening to Arthur and thinking about where we were going. Arthur shared thoughts about what a good organization should look like. Here are some of his thoughts:
1. A good organization ought to smile a lot.
2. A good organization ought to get its books (Know what it is doing).
3. A good organization ought to know the landscape.
4. A good organization ought to change.
Early Saturday morning, Rocky, our dog, and I got into Sue's car to go to Dallas. Our son, Rick, had surgery on his sinus and had his tonsils removed. Cindy, our daughter-in-law, had asked Sue and me to come and help them during this time. Sue had flown to Dallas on Wednesday and had helped in taking care of our granddaughter, Hudson. She is a beautiful little girl who is a delight to be around. Saturday evening was family time as daughter Jamie and her family came from Denton, TX. It was a joy to be with them. Our granddaughters Lauren and Alexandra and I have developed a tradition. When we shake hands, I have a $20 bill and they like to shake hands almost as much as do I.
I spent two days driving Rick all over Dallas to take care of business that had been on hold because of his surgery. I love being with him. He and I moved to St. Charles in 1972 when he was four and we had seven years when it was just "Ricky and Dad." Those were special bonding years that continue to this day. Sue and I have three great children and following her divorce, the desire of her heart was to meet a guy with a son. She immediately became "Mom" to Rick and they have a wonderful relationship.
I saw a lady at QT in Springfield on the way to Dallas. She said: "God is good!" I replied: "All the time!"
Friday morning, Arthur and I went to MOHELA Headquarters where we spent the next several hours listening to Arthur and thinking about where we were going. Arthur shared thoughts about what a good organization should look like. Here are some of his thoughts:
1. A good organization ought to smile a lot.
2. A good organization ought to get its books (Know what it is doing).
3. A good organization ought to know the landscape.
4. A good organization ought to change.
Early Saturday morning, Rocky, our dog, and I got into Sue's car to go to Dallas. Our son, Rick, had surgery on his sinus and had his tonsils removed. Cindy, our daughter-in-law, had asked Sue and me to come and help them during this time. Sue had flown to Dallas on Wednesday and had helped in taking care of our granddaughter, Hudson. She is a beautiful little girl who is a delight to be around. Saturday evening was family time as daughter Jamie and her family came from Denton, TX. It was a joy to be with them. Our granddaughters Lauren and Alexandra and I have developed a tradition. When we shake hands, I have a $20 bill and they like to shake hands almost as much as do I.
I spent two days driving Rick all over Dallas to take care of business that had been on hold because of his surgery. I love being with him. He and I moved to St. Charles in 1972 when he was four and we had seven years when it was just "Ricky and Dad." Those were special bonding years that continue to this day. Sue and I have three great children and following her divorce, the desire of her heart was to meet a guy with a son. She immediately became "Mom" to Rick and they have a wonderful relationship.
I saw a lady at QT in Springfield on the way to Dallas. She said: "God is good!" I replied: "All the time!"
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Friends For a Long Time
It is interesting to visit with someone from years gone by. This week has been such a time. I have known Wayne Nelson for many years. He has been a pastor and then took the training to become a hospital chaplain. Wayne has always had a great disposition. In fact, I have felt that if there was anything wrong with our relationship, the problem had to be me. Wayne lives in Georgia and he and his wife, Mary came through St. Charles on their way to her high school reunion. Sue and I took them to dinner on Tueday evening and enjoyed a good time with them. Yesterday the time was spent on the golf course with another long-time friend, Dr. Tom Trimble. My relationship with Tom goes back in time and he and Wayne went to the same high school in Columbai, Mo. Tom is president of Christian Psychological and Family Services with offices in St. Louis and Nashville. He was the one who told me about Sue and that she was expecting me to call. Whenever we get together, we take up where we left off as though time and distance are non factors. That is so special.
Next week, Sue and I will take high school friends of mine to a Cardinals' game. Dave and Bitty (real name Martha) Fay are huge Cardinals' fans. This has become an annual event for them and us. I have a standing invitation to stay with them whenever I am in Springfield. We will be having a high school reunion in September and I have asked Dave to draw what the public squrare in Springfield looked like when we were in high school. As an exercise for the old folks at the reunion, I will have them locate the businesses on the square in the right place when we all lived in Springfield. That will be a lot of fun.
On Thursday, I have invited another long-time friend, Dr. Arthur Mallory to come to St. Louis and have a workshop for the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). Arthur has been president of Missouri State University and the commissioner of education for the state of Missouri. He is a very strong Christian, having been the past president of the Missouri Baptist Convention. I have asked Arthur to lead us in sharing "What a Great Organization Should Look Like." Arthur is always inspiring. This should be both informative and fun.
God has always been faithful in placing the right person in my life at the right time. This was never a conincidence. It is just the way God works. There was a time when something happened to me that should not have happened because it was against the law, but God supercedes American law for His purpose. The result of this was having a relationship with just the right person who opened the door for me to go to Baylor. What a powerful God!
Sue goes to Dallas on Wednesday to be with our son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter. Rick is facing surgery and they wanted us to help them. I will drive down on Friday evening and be there until Wednesday of the following week. I am driving to take Sue's car to her so she can drive to Nashville on Monday.
I have to announce two high school all-star baseball games on Saturday. As always, I need prayer.
Next week, Sue and I will take high school friends of mine to a Cardinals' game. Dave and Bitty (real name Martha) Fay are huge Cardinals' fans. This has become an annual event for them and us. I have a standing invitation to stay with them whenever I am in Springfield. We will be having a high school reunion in September and I have asked Dave to draw what the public squrare in Springfield looked like when we were in high school. As an exercise for the old folks at the reunion, I will have them locate the businesses on the square in the right place when we all lived in Springfield. That will be a lot of fun.
On Thursday, I have invited another long-time friend, Dr. Arthur Mallory to come to St. Louis and have a workshop for the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). Arthur has been president of Missouri State University and the commissioner of education for the state of Missouri. He is a very strong Christian, having been the past president of the Missouri Baptist Convention. I have asked Arthur to lead us in sharing "What a Great Organization Should Look Like." Arthur is always inspiring. This should be both informative and fun.
God has always been faithful in placing the right person in my life at the right time. This was never a conincidence. It is just the way God works. There was a time when something happened to me that should not have happened because it was against the law, but God supercedes American law for His purpose. The result of this was having a relationship with just the right person who opened the door for me to go to Baylor. What a powerful God!
Sue goes to Dallas on Wednesday to be with our son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter. Rick is facing surgery and they wanted us to help them. I will drive down on Friday evening and be there until Wednesday of the following week. I am driving to take Sue's car to her so she can drive to Nashville on Monday.
I have to announce two high school all-star baseball games on Saturday. As always, I need prayer.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
BOOKS AND THINGS
Through the years, I have spent a lot of money on books. While serving as pastor of the Lakeland Baptist Church located on the shores of the Lake of the Ozarks, I developed a pretty good library of Christian writings, and used them in preparation of sermons and counseling. In 1983 I gave most of those books to my pastor, Jay Piper. Jay was a great pastor and was so supportive on One Accord's singing ministry. We even had him sing with us one time when we hosted the Blackwood Brothers. Not long after I gave the books to Jay, be became terminally ill and died at the age of 41. We sang at his funeral.
As the years have gone by, I accumulated more Christian books. Commentaries, books authored by well-known writers as well as books not so well-known. I used those in preparing sermons while serving as interim-pastor of two churches in the St. Louis area. As Sue and I began "down-sizing," I looked at all the books and decided to call our pastor, Dr. David McAlpin, and see if he would like to look at the books and take anything he wanted. Yesterday, he came by and reviewed the authors and took three boxes of books with him. He took old books and new books and a set of commentaries. His son just graduated from Liberty University and David took some for his son. It was fun visiting and I enjoyed his reaction when seeing some of the older books written by men who have gone on to be with Jesus.
David McAlpin is a rare breed. I have been around preachers much of my life and he is one of the few who listen when you speak, and look you in the eye while listening. I told him he had the first characteristic of a serving leader. Sue and I are so fortunate to have David as our pastor.
I have a very important MOHELA board meeting Friday. The Missouri legislature has passed legislation and Governor Blunt has signed the bill that will allow MOHELA to give 315M dollars to the state for building repairs at state universities. Included in this bill are provisions that will allow MOHELA to do things that were previously not allowed. One of the things I want to do is pilot a program for parents of kindergartners that would encourage them to begin saving for college and MOHELA will help them by matching their savings.
At our Friday board meeting, I have asked Dr. Robert Spence, one of our board members who is also president of Evangel University, to share with us some of the things he believes MOHELA can do for private universities that use our services. Dr. Spence is a great Christian who has led EU in a marvelous way. I look forward to hearing from him.
I write this on the seing in our backyard. It is a very pleasant morning to be outside, especially with Service Master cleaning our carpets.
As the years have gone by, I accumulated more Christian books. Commentaries, books authored by well-known writers as well as books not so well-known. I used those in preparing sermons while serving as interim-pastor of two churches in the St. Louis area. As Sue and I began "down-sizing," I looked at all the books and decided to call our pastor, Dr. David McAlpin, and see if he would like to look at the books and take anything he wanted. Yesterday, he came by and reviewed the authors and took three boxes of books with him. He took old books and new books and a set of commentaries. His son just graduated from Liberty University and David took some for his son. It was fun visiting and I enjoyed his reaction when seeing some of the older books written by men who have gone on to be with Jesus.
David McAlpin is a rare breed. I have been around preachers much of my life and he is one of the few who listen when you speak, and look you in the eye while listening. I told him he had the first characteristic of a serving leader. Sue and I are so fortunate to have David as our pastor.
I have a very important MOHELA board meeting Friday. The Missouri legislature has passed legislation and Governor Blunt has signed the bill that will allow MOHELA to give 315M dollars to the state for building repairs at state universities. Included in this bill are provisions that will allow MOHELA to do things that were previously not allowed. One of the things I want to do is pilot a program for parents of kindergartners that would encourage them to begin saving for college and MOHELA will help them by matching their savings.
At our Friday board meeting, I have asked Dr. Robert Spence, one of our board members who is also president of Evangel University, to share with us some of the things he believes MOHELA can do for private universities that use our services. Dr. Spence is a great Christian who has led EU in a marvelous way. I look forward to hearing from him.
I write this on the seing in our backyard. It is a very pleasant morning to be outside, especially with Service Master cleaning our carpets.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Serving your family - They Deserve it!
Today was a very interesting day. I am sure Sue will go into more detail about it on her blog; however, it was special for me to see three people I have grown to love go back in time and visit some places that had been special to them.
We drove east of I-70 toward St. Louis to find the old Calvary Baptist Church. Sue's dad taught himself how to lead singing and lead a choir and became the music director at Calvary. The church had great preaching from a pastor who was incredibly talented. Not only was he a sensational pulpiteer, he was great on the organ and piano. Reverend Nelson Reagan was a great influence not only on Sue's dad, but caused her to want to learn to write. The music, under the direction of Sue's dad had to be great. This little church grew to number over 1000 in Sunday School and had to move their service to the Pauline Theater where the aroma of popping corn caused worshippers to sometimes stray in their concentration. Today, the building still stands as a church and is suprisingly well-kept. We took a picture of Sue in front of the church and also one of her mother and dad. We drove by the house where Sue's parents lived when she was born. Except for the church, the surrounding area has not been as well-kept as we might like. The memories of Sue and her parents were memories of great joy. That is a good thing.
We drove south on Goodfellow ave. to CoteBrilliant street only to find that the four family flat where they one called home was no longer an edifice. A vacant lot between two houses brought a little sadness. Not far from that address was a school where Sue went to kindergarten. Although it appears that the building could use a bit of "fixin' up," it is still in use and is a very attractive place of memories for Sue. We then headed west on Natural Bridge to Brown road and drove to another elementary school where Sue was a student. That school was close to her home, which at that time was on Bobb Street. We drove by the house where Sue lived until she went to Oklahoma Baptist University (a poor choice of colleges when Baylor was available). The house on Bobb is still an attractive frame house and Sue and her parents recalled many joyful events that happened while they resided there.
We drove back to St. Charles on I-70 and had lunch at Cracker Barrel. It was fun for me to listen and watch mother, father, and daughter look back at their very special hereitage. One of the most special things that they enjoyed and still enjoy, is that Jesus is Lord and He has directed their paths.
We drove east of I-70 toward St. Louis to find the old Calvary Baptist Church. Sue's dad taught himself how to lead singing and lead a choir and became the music director at Calvary. The church had great preaching from a pastor who was incredibly talented. Not only was he a sensational pulpiteer, he was great on the organ and piano. Reverend Nelson Reagan was a great influence not only on Sue's dad, but caused her to want to learn to write. The music, under the direction of Sue's dad had to be great. This little church grew to number over 1000 in Sunday School and had to move their service to the Pauline Theater where the aroma of popping corn caused worshippers to sometimes stray in their concentration. Today, the building still stands as a church and is suprisingly well-kept. We took a picture of Sue in front of the church and also one of her mother and dad. We drove by the house where Sue's parents lived when she was born. Except for the church, the surrounding area has not been as well-kept as we might like. The memories of Sue and her parents were memories of great joy. That is a good thing.
We drove south on Goodfellow ave. to CoteBrilliant street only to find that the four family flat where they one called home was no longer an edifice. A vacant lot between two houses brought a little sadness. Not far from that address was a school where Sue went to kindergarten. Although it appears that the building could use a bit of "fixin' up," it is still in use and is a very attractive place of memories for Sue. We then headed west on Natural Bridge to Brown road and drove to another elementary school where Sue was a student. That school was close to her home, which at that time was on Bobb Street. We drove by the house where Sue lived until she went to Oklahoma Baptist University (a poor choice of colleges when Baylor was available). The house on Bobb is still an attractive frame house and Sue and her parents recalled many joyful events that happened while they resided there.
We drove back to St. Charles on I-70 and had lunch at Cracker Barrel. It was fun for me to listen and watch mother, father, and daughter look back at their very special hereitage. One of the most special things that they enjoyed and still enjoy, is that Jesus is Lord and He has directed their paths.
Friday, May 18, 2007
A Week of Press Conferences
This had been a week of press conferences. Wednesday, MOHELA held two press conferenes, one at the Science Center in St. Louis and the other in the board room of the Metropolitan Community Colleges in Kansas City. Business, education, government, and labor leaders met to discuss national and state recommendations for addressing challenges in engineering, math and science. At these meetings MOHELA announced the details of new investments to help Missouri address these challenges. Following the meeting in St. Louis, we flew to Kansas City to announce the MOHELA initiative on the western side of the state. The press conferences were attended by a capacity crowd in both cities with television crews from three cities in Missouri as well as the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and the Kansas City Star.
Today, a press conference regarding volunteerism was held in the Holiday Inn in Wentzville, MO. Rick Warren was very interested in what is taking place in the Westplex area of Missouri. One important announcement was that the city of St. Louis is joining in our effort. Governor Matt Blunt has already pledged his support. I made a presentation regarding the characteristics of serving leaders. John Howard, the great American cycilist was present and he shared a bit about his outstanding career and his winning endeavors in three olympics.
God has been opening new doors for me this year and I am grateful for that. It is a good thing to have the opportunity to represent Jesus in the secular world. When I speak of serving leaders, where could I find a better one than the Son of God.
Have a great Memorial Weekend!
Today, a press conference regarding volunteerism was held in the Holiday Inn in Wentzville, MO. Rick Warren was very interested in what is taking place in the Westplex area of Missouri. One important announcement was that the city of St. Louis is joining in our effort. Governor Matt Blunt has already pledged his support. I made a presentation regarding the characteristics of serving leaders. John Howard, the great American cycilist was present and he shared a bit about his outstanding career and his winning endeavors in three olympics.
God has been opening new doors for me this year and I am grateful for that. It is a good thing to have the opportunity to represent Jesus in the secular world. When I speak of serving leaders, where could I find a better one than the Son of God.
Have a great Memorial Weekend!
Friday, May 4, 2007
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER & A TRIP TO MISSOURI' CAPITAL
Yesterday was the National Day of Prayer. President Harry Truman (a Missourian) began that program in 1952. My day began by attending the St. Charles Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. Patti York is our mayor and she is a very attractive lady who has led our city in a very special way. My friend Ed Watkins was the MC of the event and he asked me to bring a "Dove Award" to the breakfast so we could honor Sue for her achievements. That was fun to hold the award up so all could see. Todd Worrell was the featured speaker. He is a former great relief pitcher for the Cardinals and later for the LA Dodgers. Todd is presently the pitching coach for Westminster Christian Academy in St. Louis. That school is outstanding and they are fortunate to have some fine students who are the sons and daughters of professional athletes who have been excellent in their field. Todd stressed the importance of relationships, especially having a relationship with Jesus.
After the prayer breakfast, Ed and I drove to Jefferson City to meet with some of the elected leaders of Missouri. We talked to Rep Sally Faith who is a WAJonian. Also we visited with Lt. Governor Peter Kinder, Senator Chuck Gross and Rep. Tom Dempsey. Tom had just returned from Springfield where he had accompanied Governor Matt Blunt to the Prayer Breakfast there. Former Senator and Attorney General John Ashcroft was the speaker and according to Gov Blunt and Rep Dempsey, he was dynamite.
I had scheduled an appointment with Governor Blunt for Ed and me. I talked to him, his chief of staff, and deputy chief of staff about the direction the Missouri Higher Loan Authority would be taking following the passage of Governor Blunt's "Lewis and Clark Program" in the Missouri House. The Senate has already approved it. We will be funding $350M to help colleges and universities in Missouri with some of their building projects. I believe it is a good program and will not affect any student from obtaining a loan from MOHELA. Ed shared some things that resulted from Rick Warren's visit to St. Louis a few weeks ago that involves volunteerism in Missouri. Governor Blunt was a good listener and said he would help us. He is 37 years old and looks about 25. More importantly, he is a great Christian. PRAISE GOD FOR THAT. It is special to have such a man as the leader of our state.
Ed came away so excited about our visit and the promises Governor Blunt made. It was a good day.
I will be glad to have Sue home for a while. She is special.
After the prayer breakfast, Ed and I drove to Jefferson City to meet with some of the elected leaders of Missouri. We talked to Rep Sally Faith who is a WAJonian. Also we visited with Lt. Governor Peter Kinder, Senator Chuck Gross and Rep. Tom Dempsey. Tom had just returned from Springfield where he had accompanied Governor Matt Blunt to the Prayer Breakfast there. Former Senator and Attorney General John Ashcroft was the speaker and according to Gov Blunt and Rep Dempsey, he was dynamite.
I had scheduled an appointment with Governor Blunt for Ed and me. I talked to him, his chief of staff, and deputy chief of staff about the direction the Missouri Higher Loan Authority would be taking following the passage of Governor Blunt's "Lewis and Clark Program" in the Missouri House. The Senate has already approved it. We will be funding $350M to help colleges and universities in Missouri with some of their building projects. I believe it is a good program and will not affect any student from obtaining a loan from MOHELA. Ed shared some things that resulted from Rick Warren's visit to St. Louis a few weeks ago that involves volunteerism in Missouri. Governor Blunt was a good listener and said he would help us. He is 37 years old and looks about 25. More importantly, he is a great Christian. PRAISE GOD FOR THAT. It is special to have such a man as the leader of our state.
Ed came away so excited about our visit and the promises Governor Blunt made. It was a good day.
I will be glad to have Sue home for a while. She is special.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
SHE'S ALWAYS BEEN A WINNER
Sue Herweck Smith has always been a winner. God blessed her by sending her to Hal and LaVerne Herweck so she could have outstanding Christians as parents. Always a good student, Sue was highly successful in high school, Oklahoma Baptist College, finally graduating from Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis.
A long-time friend of mine called me and said he had word of an alleged "88." and she was expecting me to call. An "88" was code for Tom and me indicating a girl was a fox. I was not too hot on blind dates, but decided to call and ask her out. I planned to take her to a fine restaurant for dinner, if she was indeed an "88." We went to a restaurant in St. Charles that at that time was a special place. This was the beginning of a special relationship, not only for Sue and me, but also for her daughters, Jamie and Holly, and my son, Rick. We blended our families into one and agreed that no one would ever be called "step-anything." Sue was immediately mom for Rick and I was dad for Jamie and Holly. Rick, Jamie and Holly remain brother and sisters today, enjoying a close relationship with each other.
Prior to our marriage, Sue and the girls had joined One Accord and had become an integral part of the group. Sue not only sang with the group, she also sang some solos and played the bass guitar. Jamie and Holly joined Rick, singing as the "One Accord Kids." Sue had already begun writing and we were singing some of her songs. We still have people call us for the song that was her testimony, "I Came to Love You Early." Recognizing Sue's talent for writing was not difficult and as we began to get exposure as a singing group, individuals in Nashville saw what the members of One Accord knew.
Tonight, she won her second and third Dove Award for writing a Christian musical and a children's musical. With the success she has experienced, one might think she would believe she had arrived as a writer. NOT SO!!! Sue continues to study, pray, read her Bible, and grow as a writer. Not only is she a great writer, she is also a great wife and mother. What can we say about her accomplishments as a writer? CONGRATULATIONS Sue, you deserve a lot of credit. Jamie, Rick, Holly, and I love you and we thank Jesus for all He has done for us.
A long-time friend of mine called me and said he had word of an alleged "88." and she was expecting me to call. An "88" was code for Tom and me indicating a girl was a fox. I was not too hot on blind dates, but decided to call and ask her out. I planned to take her to a fine restaurant for dinner, if she was indeed an "88." We went to a restaurant in St. Charles that at that time was a special place. This was the beginning of a special relationship, not only for Sue and me, but also for her daughters, Jamie and Holly, and my son, Rick. We blended our families into one and agreed that no one would ever be called "step-anything." Sue was immediately mom for Rick and I was dad for Jamie and Holly. Rick, Jamie and Holly remain brother and sisters today, enjoying a close relationship with each other.
Prior to our marriage, Sue and the girls had joined One Accord and had become an integral part of the group. Sue not only sang with the group, she also sang some solos and played the bass guitar. Jamie and Holly joined Rick, singing as the "One Accord Kids." Sue had already begun writing and we were singing some of her songs. We still have people call us for the song that was her testimony, "I Came to Love You Early." Recognizing Sue's talent for writing was not difficult and as we began to get exposure as a singing group, individuals in Nashville saw what the members of One Accord knew.
Tonight, she won her second and third Dove Award for writing a Christian musical and a children's musical. With the success she has experienced, one might think she would believe she had arrived as a writer. NOT SO!!! Sue continues to study, pray, read her Bible, and grow as a writer. Not only is she a great writer, she is also a great wife and mother. What can we say about her accomplishments as a writer? CONGRATULATIONS Sue, you deserve a lot of credit. Jamie, Rick, Holly, and I love you and we thank Jesus for all He has done for us.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
MORE THOUGHTS ON EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP
There is a new leader at a place where I used to work. It is so sad to see the direction he is taking the organization. Morale among the employees is extremely low, and if he looked around to his back, he couldn't find anyone following. It is not because he is a bad person, he is simply using poor skills in leadership.
I am enjoying the book Sue gave me entitled "The Leadership Skills of Billy Graham." It is so interesting to see him at work in a way one would never see him in a crusade. Dr. Graham has been included in "Good Housekeeping's" most-admired list for decades. It appears that every person on that list is a positive person. When we think of Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, and my friend Dr. Arthur L. Mallory, we think of positive persons. It is interesting to discover that Dr. Graham's family nicknamed him "Puddleglum." Puddleglum is a character in C.S. Lewis's book series, the Chronicles of Narnia. Puddleglum is a brave but glum creature, always expecting the worst. Graham's family used this name for him with humor and affection.
Dr. Mallory told a group of Christians that he learned long ago that if he went into his job as president of a university or commissioner of education in a bad mood that some employee would have to go home with a bad headache or and upset stomach. Mallory, IKE, and JFK used engaging smiles to make people feel better and let them know that they were worthwhile employees and that went a long way in their success as leaders.
One of my teachers in high school wrote in my yearbook: "Keep that big smile, it's an invaluable asset." In leadership, it is an asset.
I am enjoying the book Sue gave me entitled "The Leadership Skills of Billy Graham." It is so interesting to see him at work in a way one would never see him in a crusade. Dr. Graham has been included in "Good Housekeeping's" most-admired list for decades. It appears that every person on that list is a positive person. When we think of Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, and my friend Dr. Arthur L. Mallory, we think of positive persons. It is interesting to discover that Dr. Graham's family nicknamed him "Puddleglum." Puddleglum is a character in C.S. Lewis's book series, the Chronicles of Narnia. Puddleglum is a brave but glum creature, always expecting the worst. Graham's family used this name for him with humor and affection.
Dr. Mallory told a group of Christians that he learned long ago that if he went into his job as president of a university or commissioner of education in a bad mood that some employee would have to go home with a bad headache or and upset stomach. Mallory, IKE, and JFK used engaging smiles to make people feel better and let them know that they were worthwhile employees and that went a long way in their success as leaders.
One of my teachers in high school wrote in my yearbook: "Keep that big smile, it's an invaluable asset." In leadership, it is an asset.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Real Leadership is Hard to Find
A number of years ago, a young man who took over the presidency of Missouri's second largest university at age 31, was confronted by his dad with this proposal: 'Why don't you take a cut in pay, mow your own lawn, and prepare your own meals and provide some leadership in education?" Dr. Arthur L. Mallory left Missouri State University and became the best commissioner of education Missouri has ever had. Following his tenure as commissioner, Arthur became president of the Missouri Baptist Convention where he again provided great leadership.
Dr. Mallory is a servant leader and a dedicated Christian. His entire family serves our Lord in various capacities and it was a privilege for me as Chairman of the Missouri Higher Education Authority (MOHELA) to give him a plaque indicating our appreciation for his leadership to Missouri students and families.
Sue recently gave me a book entitled "The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham." I have not completed reading this accounting of Dr. Graham's leadership, but what I have read suggests that he was not much of a speaker or leader until he gave himself totally to Christ. Could this be the key to great leadership? When you study leadership, very little credit is given to Jesus as a leader; however, even if you take the fact that He was the Son of God out of the equation, the fact remains that more that 2000 years after he lived, more that 75% of American adults claim belief in His deity and more that 2 billion folks worldwide claim that same belief.
Rick Warren is pastor of a church that has 70,000 believers. When you look at the ministries of Dr. Warren and Dr. Graham, you must conclude that these folks have some special abilities in the way of leadership. President Woodrow Wilson said: "Absolute identity with one's cause is the first and great condition of leadership." Jim Collins, who authored "Good to Great," said this: "We were surprised, shocked really to discover that real leadership requires a paradoxical blend of humility and 'ferocious resolve.'"
The world tries to keep the leadership of ministers, preachers, and popes in the church. Sadly, we as believers often do the same. But when you think about it, the greatest leaders in our world are believers. You and I might be one of those hard to find leaders if we would do what Billy Graham did a long time ago - give ourselves totally to God.
Dr. Mallory is a servant leader and a dedicated Christian. His entire family serves our Lord in various capacities and it was a privilege for me as Chairman of the Missouri Higher Education Authority (MOHELA) to give him a plaque indicating our appreciation for his leadership to Missouri students and families.
Sue recently gave me a book entitled "The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham." I have not completed reading this accounting of Dr. Graham's leadership, but what I have read suggests that he was not much of a speaker or leader until he gave himself totally to Christ. Could this be the key to great leadership? When you study leadership, very little credit is given to Jesus as a leader; however, even if you take the fact that He was the Son of God out of the equation, the fact remains that more that 2000 years after he lived, more that 75% of American adults claim belief in His deity and more that 2 billion folks worldwide claim that same belief.
Rick Warren is pastor of a church that has 70,000 believers. When you look at the ministries of Dr. Warren and Dr. Graham, you must conclude that these folks have some special abilities in the way of leadership. President Woodrow Wilson said: "Absolute identity with one's cause is the first and great condition of leadership." Jim Collins, who authored "Good to Great," said this: "We were surprised, shocked really to discover that real leadership requires a paradoxical blend of humility and 'ferocious resolve.'"
The world tries to keep the leadership of ministers, preachers, and popes in the church. Sadly, we as believers often do the same. But when you think about it, the greatest leaders in our world are believers. You and I might be one of those hard to find leaders if we would do what Billy Graham did a long time ago - give ourselves totally to God.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
TRANSFORMATION
When Sue comes home from Nashville, she usually heads straight to the bed to recover from a lack of sleep and a time of continuously being on the move. While in TN, she keeps a rather hectic schedule and when she arrives home, I endeavor to make home a quiet place with little responsibility for her.
This past week, Sue came home on Thursday evening and was totally wiped out. I told her she should go to bed without an exact time to get up. She could actually just become a part of the bed. No interruptions. This usually gets her revived for another trip to Music City.
Friday, however, was a different story. We got in my car and headed for Springfield, MO. Some of our friends invited us down for the Gaither Homecoming program that was to be held in the Hammonds Student Center, home of the Missouri State University basketball Bears. Holly used to cheer in this building when she was a Suger Bear (we have some nice pictures). Usually when you go to the Hammonds Center, you go for a basketball game. Concessions, ushers, usherettes, band, cheerleaders, NCAA banners hanging fomr the ceiling along with the jerseys of players whose numbers have been retired. The arena is an intimate setting for basketball. Tonight, however, there was no basketball in Hammonds. Ernie Haase provided tickets for Sue and me (a big thanks to Ernie) and we were about six rows from the stage on the floor. During the evening, we were blessed by the singing of Joy Gardner, Lynda Randall, Russ Taeff, Ben Speer, Jeff and Sheri Easter, Signature Sound and the Gaither Vocal Band. Jeff and Sheri sang a song that Simon Hawkins and Twila Labar wrote and we were excited about that for both of them. Then Jeff began to talk about a special song that became a number one song for them and was written by a lady by the name of Sue Smith who was present for the concert. That was really special and brought tears to my eyes.
As good as that was, it was not the highlight for me. When the homcoming friends sang "We Are Standing On Holy Ground," I was reminded that a basketball arena had been transformed into a holy place, not by flowers, special lighting, or anything like that, but the very presence of Jesus who made the difference. He can take an arena and make it a very special spiritual place. Miraculously, He can do the same thing with a life who will allow Him to do so. That is amazing!
This past week, Sue came home on Thursday evening and was totally wiped out. I told her she should go to bed without an exact time to get up. She could actually just become a part of the bed. No interruptions. This usually gets her revived for another trip to Music City.
Friday, however, was a different story. We got in my car and headed for Springfield, MO. Some of our friends invited us down for the Gaither Homecoming program that was to be held in the Hammonds Student Center, home of the Missouri State University basketball Bears. Holly used to cheer in this building when she was a Suger Bear (we have some nice pictures). Usually when you go to the Hammonds Center, you go for a basketball game. Concessions, ushers, usherettes, band, cheerleaders, NCAA banners hanging fomr the ceiling along with the jerseys of players whose numbers have been retired. The arena is an intimate setting for basketball. Tonight, however, there was no basketball in Hammonds. Ernie Haase provided tickets for Sue and me (a big thanks to Ernie) and we were about six rows from the stage on the floor. During the evening, we were blessed by the singing of Joy Gardner, Lynda Randall, Russ Taeff, Ben Speer, Jeff and Sheri Easter, Signature Sound and the Gaither Vocal Band. Jeff and Sheri sang a song that Simon Hawkins and Twila Labar wrote and we were excited about that for both of them. Then Jeff began to talk about a special song that became a number one song for them and was written by a lady by the name of Sue Smith who was present for the concert. That was really special and brought tears to my eyes.
As good as that was, it was not the highlight for me. When the homcoming friends sang "We Are Standing On Holy Ground," I was reminded that a basketball arena had been transformed into a holy place, not by flowers, special lighting, or anything like that, but the very presence of Jesus who made the difference. He can take an arena and make it a very special spiritual place. Miraculously, He can do the same thing with a life who will allow Him to do so. That is amazing!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
FEELINGS IN GROWING OLDER
As a young person, I observed people dying, both senior and young, but I really did not stop to consider what life would be like as I entered those latter years. When I was younger, I kept making plans for the future such as buying a home, getting a new car, possible career change, taking care of my children, crossing paths with the "right" people, how best to serve the Lord, dealing with parents who were getting close to the end, etc. Now as I enter the latter phases of life on this planet, making plans for what is left in life is taking a turn I never considered until recently. About two months ago, I broke off a piece of a tooth that anchored my bridge. That led me to consider how much money I wanted to invest in my mouth. Instead of thinking about buying new things, I am thinking my present car may be my last. I find myself thinking I have accomplished so little with the talent God has provided and that makes me sad. For the umpteenth time, I saw the ending of the movie, "For the Love of the Game." This is story about an older pitcher who played for the Detroit Tigers and was played by Kevin Costner. In the movie, Costner goes by the name of Billy Chapel and he is pitching a perfect game against the New York Yankees in the House that Ruth Built, Yankee Stadium (The great announcer Vince Skully said the Cathedral of Yankee Stadium became a Chapel during that game). In this game, Costner reflects on events in his life and finally realizes his need for his girlfriend (Kelly Preston) and his desire to spend the rest of his life with her. Previously, she had told him that he did not need her. The story ends with Costner telling her that after pitching the perfect game, this moment should have been the happiest time of his life, but because she was not there it was far less than that and he realized his need for her to be part of his life. The story ends with passionate kissing in the JFK airport.
This made me think again of how important Jesus is and how he has prepared the future for my latter days. God has been so good to me. Only He could have worked out my meeting Sue and blending our families so successfully. In our family, no one was ever called "step" anything. Jamie, Rick, and Holly were and are brother and sisters. Sue was mom and I was dad. Our children and grandchildren continue to be so precious. Holly will give us another granddaughter in July. Sue's writing career is more that we could have planned. I am involved professionally with folks I would never have thought possible. My friend Ed Watkins and I have some plans for educational institutions we believe will be of signiicant help in shaping education in public schools. Ken McClure, a long-time friend, continues to open doors for me. I just visited with Dr. Arthur Mallory who is one of my two heroes and that was special. Our WAJ workshop, under Sue's direction, is fourishing and assisting so many in their pursuit of serving God as a writer. Although I have some health concerns. the important things are good and I can still go on our patio and shoot baskets pretty well. I have no idea how my life will end, but as the song writer once penned, "I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future." His name is Jesus.
This made me think again of how important Jesus is and how he has prepared the future for my latter days. God has been so good to me. Only He could have worked out my meeting Sue and blending our families so successfully. In our family, no one was ever called "step" anything. Jamie, Rick, and Holly were and are brother and sisters. Sue was mom and I was dad. Our children and grandchildren continue to be so precious. Holly will give us another granddaughter in July. Sue's writing career is more that we could have planned. I am involved professionally with folks I would never have thought possible. My friend Ed Watkins and I have some plans for educational institutions we believe will be of signiicant help in shaping education in public schools. Ken McClure, a long-time friend, continues to open doors for me. I just visited with Dr. Arthur Mallory who is one of my two heroes and that was special. Our WAJ workshop, under Sue's direction, is fourishing and assisting so many in their pursuit of serving God as a writer. Although I have some health concerns. the important things are good and I can still go on our patio and shoot baskets pretty well. I have no idea how my life will end, but as the song writer once penned, "I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future." His name is Jesus.
Monday, March 12, 2007
A Day with Rick Warren and Governor Matt Blunt
Last Wednesday began at 5 am when I had to roll out of bed and go to St. Louis for the Greater St. Louis Prayer Breakfast. It is heralded as the largest prayer breakfast in the United States. My joy was to meet Rick Warren and greet Governor Matt Blunt of Missouri and introduce them to each other. Warren was just as advertised, kind, gentle, and very real. As usual, Governor Blunt, who is a very committed Christian, was his kind self.
The prayer breakfast was a very spiritual experience, with Old Testament and New Testament readings and a prayer that surely made its way to the Throne of Grace. Pastor Warren, in his address to the business leaders of St. Louis, emphasized the powerful role of the church in the 21st century and shared that the church is the only organization in the world that has the volunteer man (and woman) power to change the world.
Following the breakfast (by the way, the food was not that good), a press conference was held in a room at the America's Center which is attached to the Edward Jones Dome, the home of the St. Louis Rams. I had the privilege of introducing Pastor Warren and Governor Blunt to the press. There was lots of talk of volunteerism in the four county area adjacent to St. Louis. That area is called the Westplex and a study has been done regarding the number of volunteer hours given to the not-for-profit organizations in St. Charles, Warren, Franklin, and Linccoln Counties. Both Warren and Blunt are vitally interested in the volunteer effort.
Paastor Warren then made his way to meeting the college bound seniors who attend school in the public schools of St. Louis. In this meeting, he emphasized that each person had a purpose and each one had to find his purpose in life. In addition, he gave a copy of his book to each student in attendance (800). It was heard that a few teachers felt Warren's message was too religious and he was informed of this during the question and answer period. It was interesting that he closed in prayer, not only for the students, but also for the teachers. With the problems in urban public schools, the teachers' complaint was an example of the knats and alligators.
For me, the final session with Pastor Warren was at the Bogey Club where lunch was served and he proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus to the affluent leaders of St. Louis. At the conclusion of time at the Bogey Club, Warren gave the audience a chance to ask him any question they had. He was a man with a message and was genuine in his every endeavor.
P.S. Pastor Warren gave each person at the breakfast and the Bogey Club a copy of the "Purpose Driven Life."
The prayer breakfast was a very spiritual experience, with Old Testament and New Testament readings and a prayer that surely made its way to the Throne of Grace. Pastor Warren, in his address to the business leaders of St. Louis, emphasized the powerful role of the church in the 21st century and shared that the church is the only organization in the world that has the volunteer man (and woman) power to change the world.
Following the breakfast (by the way, the food was not that good), a press conference was held in a room at the America's Center which is attached to the Edward Jones Dome, the home of the St. Louis Rams. I had the privilege of introducing Pastor Warren and Governor Blunt to the press. There was lots of talk of volunteerism in the four county area adjacent to St. Louis. That area is called the Westplex and a study has been done regarding the number of volunteer hours given to the not-for-profit organizations in St. Charles, Warren, Franklin, and Linccoln Counties. Both Warren and Blunt are vitally interested in the volunteer effort.
Paastor Warren then made his way to meeting the college bound seniors who attend school in the public schools of St. Louis. In this meeting, he emphasized that each person had a purpose and each one had to find his purpose in life. In addition, he gave a copy of his book to each student in attendance (800). It was heard that a few teachers felt Warren's message was too religious and he was informed of this during the question and answer period. It was interesting that he closed in prayer, not only for the students, but also for the teachers. With the problems in urban public schools, the teachers' complaint was an example of the knats and alligators.
For me, the final session with Pastor Warren was at the Bogey Club where lunch was served and he proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus to the affluent leaders of St. Louis. At the conclusion of time at the Bogey Club, Warren gave the audience a chance to ask him any question they had. He was a man with a message and was genuine in his every endeavor.
P.S. Pastor Warren gave each person at the breakfast and the Bogey Club a copy of the "Purpose Driven Life."
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Will We Ever Learn to Listen?
Dr. David McAlpin is our pastor. He is a gifted communicator and a better person. Today he shared something about listening and that trigerred some thoughts of mine.
One of the great faults of the American citizenry is that we don't really listen to each other. Much of the time we are wanting to interrupt with our special "expertise" about whatever the subject might be. Failing to listen to what is being said and endeavoring to understand what the speaker is saying is a large part of the reason there are so many divorces in our country. In Congress, Republicans do not listen to Democrats and Democrats do not listen to Republicans. Each party is so intent on pushing its agenda that they act as though no good idea can come from the opposing party. If you are a Republican, certainly no good idea ever came from a Democrat, and if you are a Democrat, Republicans are clueless. Liberals do not listen to conservatives and conservatives do not listen to liberals. Is it any wonder that we are in such a mess in Iraq!
James 1:19 say this: "My dear brothers (and sisters), take note of this: Everyone should be quick to LISTEN." On our way home from church this morning, I said to Sue that the art of listening should be taught in our schools. I don't remember hearing anything about that until graduate school in the counseling curriculum. Upon returning home, I looked in Anita Woolfolk's "Educational Psychology" textbook that I used to teach a class of that name, and I found these thoughts on page 488 entitled "Reaching Every Student:"
"Mrs. Perez and her fourth-grade class are working on a unit on social skills in social studies. They are learning the skill of LISTENING to someone who is talking by doing the following:
1. Look at the person who is talking.
2. Remember to sit quietly.
3. Think about what is being said.
4. Say yes or nod your head.
5. Ask a question about the topic to find out more.
According to the text, that came from "Including Students with Special Needs: A Practical Guide for Classroom Teachers' by Marilyn Friend and William D. Bursick.
Those social skills should be taught to presidents, senators, representatives, governors, music writers, husbands, wives, boys, girls, dogs and cats. Every person in America needs to be taught these social skills and apply them in their activities.
In leadership, I teach that LISTENING is the first characteristic of a serving leader because of its importance. A nation's policies would be altered, friendships would be strengthened, marriages would find healing, writers would have more patience, and the United States would be a greater country if these "special education" truths were practiced.
Will you give real listening a try? It might be surprising what you will learn.
One of the great faults of the American citizenry is that we don't really listen to each other. Much of the time we are wanting to interrupt with our special "expertise" about whatever the subject might be. Failing to listen to what is being said and endeavoring to understand what the speaker is saying is a large part of the reason there are so many divorces in our country. In Congress, Republicans do not listen to Democrats and Democrats do not listen to Republicans. Each party is so intent on pushing its agenda that they act as though no good idea can come from the opposing party. If you are a Republican, certainly no good idea ever came from a Democrat, and if you are a Democrat, Republicans are clueless. Liberals do not listen to conservatives and conservatives do not listen to liberals. Is it any wonder that we are in such a mess in Iraq!
James 1:19 say this: "My dear brothers (and sisters), take note of this: Everyone should be quick to LISTEN." On our way home from church this morning, I said to Sue that the art of listening should be taught in our schools. I don't remember hearing anything about that until graduate school in the counseling curriculum. Upon returning home, I looked in Anita Woolfolk's "Educational Psychology" textbook that I used to teach a class of that name, and I found these thoughts on page 488 entitled "Reaching Every Student:"
"Mrs. Perez and her fourth-grade class are working on a unit on social skills in social studies. They are learning the skill of LISTENING to someone who is talking by doing the following:
1. Look at the person who is talking.
2. Remember to sit quietly.
3. Think about what is being said.
4. Say yes or nod your head.
5. Ask a question about the topic to find out more.
According to the text, that came from "Including Students with Special Needs: A Practical Guide for Classroom Teachers' by Marilyn Friend and William D. Bursick.
Those social skills should be taught to presidents, senators, representatives, governors, music writers, husbands, wives, boys, girls, dogs and cats. Every person in America needs to be taught these social skills and apply them in their activities.
In leadership, I teach that LISTENING is the first characteristic of a serving leader because of its importance. A nation's policies would be altered, friendships would be strengthened, marriages would find healing, writers would have more patience, and the United States would be a greater country if these "special education" truths were practiced.
Will you give real listening a try? It might be surprising what you will learn.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
CHANGES IN THE WAY WE DO THINGS
God bless the teachers in the United States. As I have watched the teaching profession evolve while being a part of that endeavor, and as president of a board of education, I am glad I do not have to put up with all the nonsense that spews out of mouths that reside in Washington and in state capitals. Boards of Education are responsible for many problems in education because it appears that some members are more interested in seeing their names in print and their image on television than making sure young people are given a good education. There was, of course, a time in education that the teacher knew more than the student, and parents were very supportive of the teacher. Sadly, that day is long gone and everyone knows more about teaching than the teacher. I have said for several years that the two greatest assets a school district has are its students and its teachers. We can have school without a board, superintendent and principal, but we cannot have school without a teacher and a student. In spite of this, many districts treat teachers in a negative way rather than assist them in making their task easier.
As I look at the church and see the great diversity in styles of worship, dress, music, and preaching styles, I wonder where we are going. The Muslim world appears to be more united in what they believe and have no toleration for disrespect to their god. Do you ever wonder if modern day Christianity has the intestinal fortitude to stand face to face with the fanatics of this terrorist threat? I marvel that many of our missionaries put their lives on the line on a daily basis. Am I willing to do that? Little by little, we see the opportunities we once had taken away in the name of political correctness. When I was in elementary school, we had a Christmas program in which all students wore white. My earliest remembrance of "Oh Come, All Ye Faithful" was not from singing it in church, but as the students marched into the gym for that program at school. In high school, at Christmas time, we used to roll the piano out into the hall, sit on the steps and sing Christmas Carols. At the time I thought nothing about one of my really good friends being subject to those special times for me since he was Jewish. He never said a word about it one way or the other. I was certainly insensitive to his needs and beliefs.
We do need boards of education, superintendents, and principals. They certainly have a lot on their plates; however, they need to do everything they can to make teaching more enjoyable and let the teachers know they are doing everything they can to be supportive. That would be a great change. We also need to be more caring in regard to the religious beliefs of friends who do not believe like we believe.
In the 21st century church, the way we worship doesn't have to be the way we used to do it. Mordern day music in the church is certainly drawing people; people do not dress up to go to chruch, it is casual. Many folks like that. Praise and worship is not new. The church has been doing that for centuries. It is just different from days gone by. What is important in church? The important aspect of worship is that "Jesus Christ is the same today, yesterday, and forever." We may change the way we worship, but God forbid that we ever attempt to change that eternal truth. May we never be afraid of change if it is necessary, but let us resolve that God's Word is eternal. As the song writer once penned: "He Never changes."
As I look at the church and see the great diversity in styles of worship, dress, music, and preaching styles, I wonder where we are going. The Muslim world appears to be more united in what they believe and have no toleration for disrespect to their god. Do you ever wonder if modern day Christianity has the intestinal fortitude to stand face to face with the fanatics of this terrorist threat? I marvel that many of our missionaries put their lives on the line on a daily basis. Am I willing to do that? Little by little, we see the opportunities we once had taken away in the name of political correctness. When I was in elementary school, we had a Christmas program in which all students wore white. My earliest remembrance of "Oh Come, All Ye Faithful" was not from singing it in church, but as the students marched into the gym for that program at school. In high school, at Christmas time, we used to roll the piano out into the hall, sit on the steps and sing Christmas Carols. At the time I thought nothing about one of my really good friends being subject to those special times for me since he was Jewish. He never said a word about it one way or the other. I was certainly insensitive to his needs and beliefs.
We do need boards of education, superintendents, and principals. They certainly have a lot on their plates; however, they need to do everything they can to make teaching more enjoyable and let the teachers know they are doing everything they can to be supportive. That would be a great change. We also need to be more caring in regard to the religious beliefs of friends who do not believe like we believe.
In the 21st century church, the way we worship doesn't have to be the way we used to do it. Mordern day music in the church is certainly drawing people; people do not dress up to go to chruch, it is casual. Many folks like that. Praise and worship is not new. The church has been doing that for centuries. It is just different from days gone by. What is important in church? The important aspect of worship is that "Jesus Christ is the same today, yesterday, and forever." We may change the way we worship, but God forbid that we ever attempt to change that eternal truth. May we never be afraid of change if it is necessary, but let us resolve that God's Word is eternal. As the song writer once penned: "He Never changes."
Friday, February 23, 2007
DREAMS OFTEN TAKE DIFFERENT ROADS
Throughout my life I have had personal dreams as well as dreams for the institutions with which I have had interest. As a teenager, I used to dream of singing and playing the piano with a gospel quartet. I loved the Sensational Statesmen and the world famous Blackwood Brothers. On the athletic side, I used to dream of playing baseball and basketball with some of the great players. Although I played high school football, I knew there was no possibility of even having a dream to play in college. At Baylor University, I was the voice of the Baylor Bears' baseball team. I knew I was the Harry Caray or Jack Buck of the Southwest Conference. In elementary school into high school and even into college, I dreamed of being the voice of the St. Louis Cardinals and broadcasting their games on the 50,000 watts of clear channel radio. WOW!
Life hasn't exactly turned out like I had dreamed, but it has taken turns that brought some of the early dreams into a different reality. Although never singing or playing the piano regularly for a major quartet, I have had the privilege of appearing with those groups on stage as a member of One Accord. I have never had the experience of playing baseball and basketball with the great players, but I have had the privilege of knowing Stan Musial, Lou Brock, Ozzie Smith, Ricky Horton, and Albert Pujols. I have not had the privilege of broadcasting the games of the Cardinals, but I have met the present announcers, Mike Shannon and John Rooney.
For serveral years, Sue and I talked about developing a workshop to assist people who had the dream to be a Christian song writer and help them develop. In reality, Write About Jesus has been more than that. Not only do registrants have the opportunity to learn a great deal about the craft, they get to interact with fellow registrants and the great Christian writers who make up the WAJ faculty. Many times registrants talk about the clinicians who "open their lives for others to see." Is WAJ what we dreamed? NO, it is much better. Isn't that just like God. You have dreams and He makes them better than you dreamed. I would not change the way things have turned out even though they are not what I envisioned.
Today, I have the opportunity to dream for the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). This organization has been and continues to be a blessing for many folks. As Chairman of the Board, I have the privilege of dreaming of a direction no one has yet dared to go. It will be interesting to see how God directs this. After all, He is the one who put me here.
Life hasn't exactly turned out like I had dreamed, but it has taken turns that brought some of the early dreams into a different reality. Although never singing or playing the piano regularly for a major quartet, I have had the privilege of appearing with those groups on stage as a member of One Accord. I have never had the experience of playing baseball and basketball with the great players, but I have had the privilege of knowing Stan Musial, Lou Brock, Ozzie Smith, Ricky Horton, and Albert Pujols. I have not had the privilege of broadcasting the games of the Cardinals, but I have met the present announcers, Mike Shannon and John Rooney.
For serveral years, Sue and I talked about developing a workshop to assist people who had the dream to be a Christian song writer and help them develop. In reality, Write About Jesus has been more than that. Not only do registrants have the opportunity to learn a great deal about the craft, they get to interact with fellow registrants and the great Christian writers who make up the WAJ faculty. Many times registrants talk about the clinicians who "open their lives for others to see." Is WAJ what we dreamed? NO, it is much better. Isn't that just like God. You have dreams and He makes them better than you dreamed. I would not change the way things have turned out even though they are not what I envisioned.
Today, I have the opportunity to dream for the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA). This organization has been and continues to be a blessing for many folks. As Chairman of the Board, I have the privilege of dreaming of a direction no one has yet dared to go. It will be interesting to see how God directs this. After all, He is the one who put me here.
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
The End of the Beginning
All my life I have anticipated the future and wondered what God had for me in the days ahead. Educationally, I have endured several institutions, most of which have contributed something to my life. When I was drafted into the United States Army, I was confused about what God wanted. Little did I realize that this would be a tremendous experience that would reshape my focus and direction. I have stated many times that graduating from college has opened more doors, but the time spent in service for our country did more for me personally.
The first Sunday, I went to chapel and Chaplain John H. Brown spoke to a chapel full of individuals who had just entered the army. A great message from a man of God was not anticipated, but was experienced. I did not realize that this was the beginning of a special friendship that would redirect my life. This man, Chaplain Brown, preached the Word of God to countless numbers of soldiers and brought inspiration to many who thought their lives were at a standstill. For me, it was the road to Baylor and the good things that awaited me there.
The years following have been interesting, rewarding, and more numerous than I can believe. A divorce moved me across the state of Missouri and the beginning of the One Accord ministry. Who would have guessed that this would become a ministry that would take me all across America and other countries. Who would have guessed that I would have a blind date with Sue that would lead to blending our families. Soon after our marriage, we sang to 2600 single adults at Ridgecrest, NC and in order to hopefully encourage many of those who were "single again," we shared our testimony. Not only did Sue and I share, each of our children told how much they wanted this marriage to happen.
I will always remember encouraging Sue to quit her teaching job and give her full attention to writing about Jesus (Sounds like a good name for a workshop). Observing how hard she has worked and the many great things she has accomplished continues to be incredibly inspirational.
Becoming the administrator of Living Word Christian School and having the opportunity to grow that institution was a challenge to move that little know school from near obscurity to a place of respect. We grew from 230 students to more than 700 in four years, built a new high school and began a second elementary school.
Now, although I feel God still has some good things there for me, I am beginning to think about the end of this life. Not very many years left for me. How do I prepare for passing from this life? How much money should I spend on my teeth? Is this the last car I will buy? What about the need to leave instructions regarding my funeral? What things can I say to my children and grandchildren that will help them? Make sure Sue knows about the various things I have taken care of that she takes for granted and may not know when and how to do them. Make sure I have more assets than liabilities. Will I get to see my grandchildren grow to adulthood? Will my health hold out?
I could go on with this kind of thinking; however, I have made certain of the most important thing. I have accepted Jesus Christ as my personal saviour and I know He will take care of the beginning that follows the end. Is that not great assurance! I know that "Jesus Paid it all and all to Him I Owe." That knowledge allows me to not understand the future, but believe it and accept it. The end of the beginning is not that bad.
The first Sunday, I went to chapel and Chaplain John H. Brown spoke to a chapel full of individuals who had just entered the army. A great message from a man of God was not anticipated, but was experienced. I did not realize that this was the beginning of a special friendship that would redirect my life. This man, Chaplain Brown, preached the Word of God to countless numbers of soldiers and brought inspiration to many who thought their lives were at a standstill. For me, it was the road to Baylor and the good things that awaited me there.
The years following have been interesting, rewarding, and more numerous than I can believe. A divorce moved me across the state of Missouri and the beginning of the One Accord ministry. Who would have guessed that this would become a ministry that would take me all across America and other countries. Who would have guessed that I would have a blind date with Sue that would lead to blending our families. Soon after our marriage, we sang to 2600 single adults at Ridgecrest, NC and in order to hopefully encourage many of those who were "single again," we shared our testimony. Not only did Sue and I share, each of our children told how much they wanted this marriage to happen.
I will always remember encouraging Sue to quit her teaching job and give her full attention to writing about Jesus (Sounds like a good name for a workshop). Observing how hard she has worked and the many great things she has accomplished continues to be incredibly inspirational.
Becoming the administrator of Living Word Christian School and having the opportunity to grow that institution was a challenge to move that little know school from near obscurity to a place of respect. We grew from 230 students to more than 700 in four years, built a new high school and began a second elementary school.
Now, although I feel God still has some good things there for me, I am beginning to think about the end of this life. Not very many years left for me. How do I prepare for passing from this life? How much money should I spend on my teeth? Is this the last car I will buy? What about the need to leave instructions regarding my funeral? What things can I say to my children and grandchildren that will help them? Make sure Sue knows about the various things I have taken care of that she takes for granted and may not know when and how to do them. Make sure I have more assets than liabilities. Will I get to see my grandchildren grow to adulthood? Will my health hold out?
I could go on with this kind of thinking; however, I have made certain of the most important thing. I have accepted Jesus Christ as my personal saviour and I know He will take care of the beginning that follows the end. Is that not great assurance! I know that "Jesus Paid it all and all to Him I Owe." That knowledge allows me to not understand the future, but believe it and accept it. The end of the beginning is not that bad.
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