Impossible to Possible!

He replied, “What is impossible for people is possible with God.” (Luke 18:27 NLT)

Háve you ever felt like you were a Hollywood star on mission impossible? 

Life can become so complicated, busy, and stressful. Getting out of bed in the morning might take every ounce of energy you have. Confrontations with family, coworkers, and community members might fill your day. Trials from illness, finances, and loss can bring life to a standstill. I know of only one solution.........Jesus. 

I am 54 years old and have gone through many of the trials I listed above. I am here today because of the power of Jesus. This morning I saw a small toddler, completely covered with rock, dirt and debris,in Nepal, get rescued after several days of being buried alive. This rescue is not possible by chance. This is only possible through Jesus. Examples like the Nepal rescue is great but that is a special instance, Right? No, my own life is filled with great miracles healing the unhealable, leading out of financial disaster, and miraculous blessings and amazing answers to prayer. I'm not just hearing about the power. I personally have seen it, felt it, and witnessed it.

I am an example that nothing is impossible with the power of my wonderful Jesus. Praise God he loves me so much. He watches over me, hears my prayers, and is with me through all times of my life. It's not by chance. It only happens when you ask him to do it. Confess your a sinner, acknowledge the power of Jesus, and ask him to take control of your life. Do it now and witness the impossible become possible.

Right now!

Then he said to his disciples, “The time is coming when you will long to see the day when the Son of Man returns, but you won’t see it. (Luke 17:22 NLT)

Today is that day! I just ache for the people of Baltimore, Ferguson, and other areas that have been destroyed by senseless protests. Yes, I truly believe they are senseless. If we are protesting the handling of a police matter, why destroy your community. Can those acts ever be justified? If your upset about jobs, does it ever make sense to destroy and loot your neighborhood businesses? Can you ever justify burning cars and transportation? 

We need Jesus! We need Jesus in the streets of Baltimore. We need Jesus in the halls of every Police Department in this nation. We need Jesus in the Supreme courts and all the the courts across this land? We need Jesus in the homes of our cities. We need Jesus in our schools and universities. But, we seem to be heading the other direction. Jesus is being thrown out of all that we do. We are being forced to remove him from our thoughts and actions. We are being persecuted for our beliefs. 

Then he said to his disciples, “The time is coming when you will long to see the day when the Son of Man returns, but you won’t see it. (Luke 17:22 NLT)

Come Lord Jesus!

The great divide!

So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian. (Daniel 6:28 NLT)

It is not evil to be prosperous. God allows it and many times it is a reward in his sight. Yet, we play it up as being very evil. The political divide in our country has the lower economic class on one side and the higher economic class on the other. Politicians from all areas do nothing to diminish this chasm. We need to draw people together, not drive us apart. 

The riots of Baltnore are a perfect example. These people are protesting by destroying their city. This morning I heard the riots blamed on poverty, no jobs, lack of services for the minorities in Baltimore. We as Christians need to do more help those that are suffering. We need to take our money and our time to serve the needy. All our money and "things" are gifts from God, not just meant for our pleasure. Instead of chastising those that have more stuff, we need to spend time bringing them to Jesus. Jesus is the only one that can bring us together. But in the end, destroying your community is not the way to get support. Sure you bring attention to your plight, but how and why would anyone put themselves in danger to help someone who destroys there own neighborhood. It just doesn't make sense. 

Dear Lord, help me to understand the plight of the minority rioters. Help me to find ways to serve the poor, jobless, the homeless, and those society has forgotten. Help all of us that have resources use them for your kingdom and not our personal pride.Amen!

The end is near!

Jesus replied, “Go tell that fox that I will keep on casting out demons and healing people today and tomorrow; and the third day I will accomplish my purpose. (Luke 13:32 NLT)

Our world is in trouble. It has been crumbling for years and it is not getting better any time soon. Riots, deaths, killing, hate, and strong anti-Christian attacks are on the news every day. Baltimore, Ferguson, Detroit, California, we are not managing problems, resources, and people. As Christians, things can look hopeless. It would be easy to give up and crawl back into a hole. We are being persecuted more and more, not just in far away countries, but right here in our own "Christian" nation. The end times are upon us.

Now is not, I repeat, NOT, the time to back down. Now is the time to ramp up our efforts to bring people to Jesus. We are need more than ever and though we are threatened and are rejected, we need to stand our ground. Jesus did not give in, even under the threat of death, he refused to give up the battle. We need to follow Jesus. We need to love people to Jesus. We need to GO, into all the world! The end times are near. The urgency is now!

Dear Lord Jesus, we need you now more than ever. I NEED YOU NOW MORE THAN EVER. help us not to lose our hope. Help us to know our hope is in you. The victory is won and you Lord are the winner. Help us to stay the course. Help us to keep bringing your word to the lost and to stand up even during certain persecution. We love you Lord and our hearts cry out to you for your mercy and grace! Amen!

Shh, someone's listening!

Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear! (Luke 12:3 NLT)

Be careful what you say! It has been many years since I've had young kids in my house on a daily basis. I remember always having to be careful what you said. Even today, I have to be cautious when talking in front of my grand kids. I love some of the stories I hear from my daughters about things there kids repeat. When you speak, they ARE listening.   

God is also listening. Even when we are quietly in our private homes, God knows what I'm saying. He knows if I'm saying things that at positive and uplifting or gossip and cutting. It really shouldn't matter where I'm at, the standard does not change with location. I should not change how I speak in the "dark" vs how I speak in the "light".

Dea Lord, may my words be your words. May I speak your truth in both the light and the dark. May I always be speak the truth, speak of your love, and speak your grace throughout my entire day. Thank you Lord for your love and mercy. I love you and am blessed by you! Amen!

My Inner "Martha"!

But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42 NLT)

I have mentioned how much I love planning and I think I'm overly organized.  This is a great quality, most of the time. It's is very helpful when planning big events. It's helpful when being prepared for work. But, it also has it's down sides. I am guessing that Martha and I were just a like. She was fretting about all the details and making. Sure her plans were just perfect. The planning and preparation actually got in the way of the event. Yes, I know all about that. 

My CMA family and I are in the last week of preparations for our annual fundraiser. I'm starting to feel my "Martha" coming out. I just need to remember God is in charge and I can't let the planning and the stress of my perfectionism get in the way of our purpose. We just want to share the love of Jesus with the bikers in the Fort Wayne area. That doesn't take a lot of planning. It takes the Holy Spirit moving in us!

Dear Lord, I pray your blessings on our CMA event next Saturday. Please help me continue to focus on the details of serving others and not the details of this event. Our purpose is clear, you have ordained it. We need to love others so they will come to know you. It's not for our glory, it's not for our purposes. It's for your glory and your purposes. Amen!

Who am i?

One day Jesus left the crowds to pray alone. Only his disciples were with him, and he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” (Luke 9:18 NLT)

Who are you? Who do people say that you are? This question is no different today than it was for Jesus. It is important to know how people view you and your ministry. This "legacy" may greatly affect your witness. Everything you do should be calculated how it affects the kingdom of God. Are you viewed as a follower of Christ? Is it easy to see where your heart is? Are you really a closet Christian?

I'm not sure exactly why Jesus asked this question, but we can ask the question of ourselves. With deep introspect we can look at our lives and work at trying to make our lives a great witness for Jesus. We don't have to be perfect. We need to be open and honest about our weaknesses and the sins in our life. But, we have to show that the power of Jesus allows us to overcome those faults and love others. Through our service, our compassion, admitting our mistakes, and our genuine love others, what people think about us  will not be an issue.

Dea Lord, as I go through my daily routine, as I travel to motorcycle events, as I travel for vacation, as I deal with my family, help me to be a genuine christian. Help me Lord represent you to everyone I see. Help me to love others just like you have loved me. I need to sacrifice and serve others with your heart, soul, and spirit. Thank you Lord for helping me to grow in my witness for you. I love you and praise you for this wonderful life. Amen!

Guilty

How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults. Keep your servant from deliberate sins! Don’t let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin. (Psalms 19:12-13 NLT)

I'm guilty. Two days ago at school I had a confrontation with a student that I did not handle well. I apologized afterward, but I still feel guilty for not handling this better. I just can't get over it. I've prayed about it and will continue to communicate with my Heavenly Father. I did not sleep well last night because when I woke up, I couldn't get it off my mind.

Sin is always lurking in my heart. I have faults, many faults and it's not easy keeping them in check. 

Lord, Cleanse me from my hidden faults. Keep your servant from deliberate sins. Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin. Amen!

The Storms of life.

The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”........ (Luke 8:24-25 NLT)

Yesterday wasn't one of my best days. I'm tired, cranky, busy, and stressed. It's times like these I need the Lord more than ever. It's during these "stormy" times, when I am no different than the disciples in the boat. It's times like this I can here Jesus asking "Where is your faith?" I know God is in charge. The storms will pass and all will be calm. I need to let my faith take over and rest easy. I am dissappointed when I let the busyness, stress, and life's challenges get to me. 

Dear Lord, I need you right now. Help me reflect your love even in these challenging times. I love you through it all. Help me get beyond the daily grind and look to you for your guidance. Please keep me safe through the storms and bring the calmness I need. I ask these things, not deserving anything, but through your amazing grace. Amen!

Unworthy

When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, “Oh, Lord, please leave me—I’m too much of a sinner to be around you.” (Luke 5:8 NLT)

As a class project last week, my students had to sell themselves to be placed on a team for a group project. You would think it would be easy for students to brag on themselves. But, it's not. Many people, certainly students, don't feel themselves worthy. On the other side of the coin, some people really have an inflated version of themselves. There are times we need to brag about ourselves. Most of the time I feel just like Peter. I know how unworthy I am. Christ sacrifice on the cross changed all that for me. He died for me and made me new. He gave his life so I can brag that sin no longer controls me. 

I'm not going to run around proclaiming how great I am, although with the cleansing power of his blood, gives me the right. Instead I will boast of Christ and all he has done for me. Yes, I am unworthy but he gives me worth beyond all I could do on my own. It's not bragging on me, it's bragging on him! I praise God for taking this sinner and giving me worth. Because of his sacrifice, all I want to do is serve him. Thank you Lord! I love you and praise your holy name!

Slowing down!

When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came. (Luke 4:13 NLT)

There are days when I feel satan is pursuing me. It always happens at my weakest, busiest time. Satan lies in wait for perfect opportunities to enter our lives. Usually my weakest point is when I am really busy. As my life "speeds up" I become more vulnerable to the evils of this world. A packed schedule, leaves little time for God. It leaves little time for studying his word and it leaves no time to talk with my savior. We all need to slow down.

This past weekend, I got a small chance to slow down, camping does that for you. I had a wondeful weekend at a Christian Motorcyclist Association event. We camped with a couple of our newer members, we also had a great dinner with a couple of our other CMA friends. We got to sit around a campfire and just talk and laugh. The next morning Stephanie and I had a lazy time getting up and tearing down camp. Life slowed down! 

I praise you Lord. I praise you for all your love and protection from the evil one. Thank you Lord for the time when life slows down and I get to enjoy your presence. I praise you for the blessings and opportunities in life that I really don't deserve, but you give them through your wondeful Grace. Help me to make time and space for worshipping you, studying your word, and loitering to your voice. I love you! Amen!

By chance!

Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. (Luke 2:34 NLT)

I am constantly amazed with the variety of people God brings into my life. I don't believe in "chance". When I turned my life to Christ,  from that point on, my life had purpose. The randomness of life no longer exists. The Bible backs me up in story after story where people are united together in Christ. Tonight I was reading in Daniel about how he, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, were  brought together by the hand of God. It might just look like chance, but it happened by the power of God.

This weekend I got to spend time with one of our chapters newest CMA members. What a wonderful blessing to get to know them and learn of their life. We left today to come home,but made a stop to celebrate my newest Grandsons birthday. It's not by chance my daughter's family is adopting Jordan. It's by the mighty hand of God. It is not by chance that I am with CMA. It's by his power and it is in his plan for my life. 

Never underestimate the plan of our father in heaven. Never doubt the events of your days are all part of God's plan for our lives. Nothing is by chance when you follow the creator of the universe and turn your plans to him. Trust in him. He has wonderful things in store for you. Praise God he loves us that much!

Just another day in the life of a blessed man.

But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. (Romans 3:21-22 NLT)

What a great day yesterday! We celebrated our newest Grandsons birthday. It was a blessing. I'm proud of my daughter McKenzie and Jeff for all their dedication to giving Jordan a great home. I have seen them persevere through all of this to follow God's calling to adopt. There will be many more challenges. But, because they rely on God, they will be blessed throughout this entire process.

I'm not sure even they knew what it was going to take to make this happen. The transition has not always been easy. But,Jordan truly loves McKenzie, Jeff, and the rest of the family. God has brought them together. We are having an official party on Sunday to celebrate this FIRST BIRTHDAY. More fun. 

On a sad note my granddaughter Ayla's hamster died yesterday. She was so sad, made a burial headstone and is dealing with the grief. I know it sounds silly, but she loved that hamster and devoted herself to taking care of it and playing with it. Most kids want the pet, then mom and dad take care of it. But not with Ayla. Death is a part of life, but it's never easy to see a grieving child. I am so proud of all my daughters and their families. My joy runneth over when I see the wonderful lives they lead. Praise God for them and the blessings of seeing them grow up.

Daily life is a blessing of God. From the big birthdays to little set backs to major trials and pain. My loving heavenly father is always their. I completely put my trust in him through it all.

Dear Lord, I praise you for life itself. I am humbled by the blessings in my life. I praise you for loving me even when I was lost. You have covered my sin with your Son's blood. Words can not describe my joy of the life you have given me. Amen!

On the same page?

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. (James 1:2-3 NLT)

I love my Christian friends, my wife, and my family. All of these special people keep me grounded in the truth of Jesus. They make sure I am on the same page of the Bible they are. With all of the distractions of this world it is easy for your faith to wander. Even within our own faith, the teachings of Jesus are twisted and deformed. You can find yourself following a false faith. That is why you NEED great Christians in your life, people you trust, people that study Gods word and devote themselves to seeking the truth. They too may not always be write. But I truly believe God uses us together to discover the real truth of our faith. Do you have those types of people in your life? 

I have been so lucky through my life to have a family that seeks God. We're not perfect but we are constantly looking for the guidance of our heavenly father. I also have had great friends in the faith. Jim Rousseau, Ron Mabry, from my past and David Kirvan and Phil Brown right now. God has sent them into my life to keep me humble and my faith growing. I can't say enough about them. God has also given me a best friend that I have shared over 36 years of marriage. She is everything to me and is my sounding board, my counselor, and many times the only voice that can penetrate this thick skull of mine. My daughters and grandkids also have a great way of keeping me focused on the important things in life. Family, Friends in the Faith, and even those contrary to your beliefs help clarify Gods plan for my life. 

Praise God for his mercy and grace. Praise God for the gift of the holy spirit sent to be with us every day. Praise God  for the gifts of other faithful followers that come along side us on our journey. I am amazingly blessed. AMEN!

WE WALK A FINE LINE!

Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety. (Proverbs 29:25 NLT)

Are you worried about what others think of you? Will you hold back your opinion so people will like you? 

I've mentioned this before. The older I get the less I care about what someone thinks about me. Life is making me more bold, more forward. And much less worried about my "popularity".  I don't really feel as inhibited in speaking out. Yet, there is a time and place for everything. Also, my boldness is not free reign to rip others. I need to always speak the truth but sometimes it is better NOT to speak than speak at all.

It might be working with kids or raising my own kids that has changed me. But, I pick my battles a lot more careful than I used to. I am more interested in keeping doors open with others than driving home my thoughts and opinions. It's not that I care if they like me or not, but I want to maintain relationships, even with difficult people or the spiritually lost, so I can share Christ love.   

Their are so many people that need Jesus. I can't share with them if I isolate myself from them. I have stronger beliefs now than I ever have in my life. I believe this world is quickly falling away from God and we are moving toward end times. We need to share the truth IN LOVE, and LOVE people with all sincerity. THey need to know where we stand, but we can't beat them over the head with it. WE WALK A FINE LINE!

Dear Lord, I know I am not always right. Their are times when I should be bold and sit quietly. Their are times when I should be quiet when I am too bold. I need your guidance. Please make clear to me Lord the path you want me to take. Give me the words to say and actions to take. I Love you and want nothing more than to bring others to know you. Thank You Lord for your wonderful grace and mercy. Thank you for the peace in my life, even in this crazy mixed up world! Amen!

Keeping it positive!

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. (Philippians 4:8 NLT)

There are so many things in this world that can drag us down. Social media, the local or national news, negative colleagues, family,jobs, politics, or numerous other activities. But Paul told us to not dwell on those things. We are to fix our thoughts on the positive side of life. I know from experience that focusing on the negative thoughts of this world makes life miserable. Sometimes it takes every ounce of energy to concentrate on the blessings of life. But we must.

I envy those that seem to rise above all calamity to celebrate life's joy. I envy those that can keep their focus on Jesus even through trial and tribulation. I praise God he has sent the holy spirit to encourage us when we are down. I praise God that there is no hopelessness through him. We always have hope! 

Dear Lord, Thank You for your love, grace, and mercy. I know I need to rely on you when the weight of the world is on my shoulders. Forgive me for not keeping my eyes on you. When I do that I am always blessed. Please Lord watch over me, guide me through the rough times of life and help me see the joy in all things! Amen!

Dominos

But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” (Romans 10:14-15 NLT)

This was a great weekend, but very busy. My CMA, Christian Motorcyclist Association, family was busy sharing Gods message. I was asked, several months ago, how effective is our ministry. I was sort of taken back by the question. It hurt that I could not instantly quantify this ministry. CMA is growing. We are adding chapters and members every year. Our own chapter is growing. So if you want to use that, yes we are effective. But, I want to look at the bottom line. The number of souls saved is the real key. That is the biggest measurement of success. In the last 27 years CMA has recorded over 19 million souls dedicated to Christ. That's effective. But, it all starts with God sending us. Like the scripture says. We are sent, we go, we share, lives are saved. This weekend we planted seeds to be harvested in due time. We will continue to sow and let our Lord reap the harvest.

Praise God for the men and women who share the message of Jesus. Praise God for my CMA brothers and sisters. We are dominoes that have been set in motion by our loving Heavenly Father. Each one before us pushes us forward to serve the kingdom. The chain is unbroken, the service for the Lord endures.

The ride season begins and so does our ministry!

That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10 NLT)

Yesterday started the "official" ride season with the Blessing of the Bikes in Arcola, Indiana. Well over a thousand bikers descended on this tiny little town and ask the Father of the Catholic Church to bless their bikes for the ride season. It's our first Big Event as the Christian Motocyclist Association, Son Rise Riders. It's not that we want our bikes blessed, but we want to be with area bikers and renew old friendships. Our goal is to bring every biker to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. We do that by just being there for them when they need us. We go to MANY secular events just so we can develop relationships and share Jesus. Many times we are bringing light into a dark event, but God protects us and he uses us. We pray with them, we share with them, and we become members of their bike families.

 When you are wearing Jesus on your vest in a sea of biker gangs, it could be very intimidating. But, worldwide the patch of CMA is recognized and respected for its values and its mission, even with the hardest of the hardcore gangs. God has always been there to protect us and I praise him for this ministry. Today we head to a local church to share our ministry. Praise God for his support and his presence in all we do! Going out to serve Jesus. That's my calling and that is YOUR calling. We are all asked to share Jesus with those that don't follow him. We do it out of love and desire to share the love Jesus has shown us! 

Dear Lord, thank you for your love and this wonderful ministry you have given us. Use us this ride season to help those that don't know you, to come to a saving relationship with you. We ask your spirit  fill us with boldness as we share and serve others. May we always represent your love to those we meet! Thank you Lord! let's ride! Amen!

Perfectionism

They were completely amazed and said again and again, “Everything he does is wonderful. He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who cannot speak.” (Mark 7:37 NLT)

 "Hi, my name is Steve and I'm a perfectionist!"

Yep, I could go to a "PA" meeting and take my first step to get better. I have an analytical mind and I just can't see any reason why I need to make mistakes. However, I do. I'm. I'm not a perfect person, I'm a perfectionist. There is a huge difference. I know I'm not perfect and it really bothers me. I hate making mistakes, I am critical of myself and others when they do. That is not good. I know I'm a sinner. I know I can not go through life without messing up, but it bothers me terribly. 

Jesus is the example of Perfectionism. I strive to be like Jesus. But, I need to remind myself constantly, that is not going to happen. It's god to strive for that, be tough on yourself, and set a high standard. We need to always remember we will not achieve what we wish. We also need to remember our striving doesn't make us better than anyone else. I am a sinner just like everyone is. It's not about me, my flaws, my striving for perfection. It's about the perfect love of Jesus. It's about knowing we are sinners, asking for forgiveness, and turning our lives to him. That is as perfect as it gets!

Dear Lord, today is the start of the official motorcycle season. We go to the Arcola bike blessing out of service for you. We know there will be people there that do not know you. Help us build relationships with them and share your perfect love. Guide us and protect us in our travels and in our ministry! Amen!

Powerful storm

Jesus told the crowd not to tell anyone, but the more he told them not to, the more they spread the news. They were completely amazed and said again and again, “Everything he does is wonderful. He even makes the deaf to hear and gives speech to those who cannot speak.” (Mark 7:36-37 NLT)

It was pretty stormy out last night across the Midwest. We saw tornados in Illinois and we were under weather warnings most of the evening. I watched a video of the tornado in Fairdale, Illinois. It was strangely beautiful but deadly powerful. The person videoing the sight was completely amazed. 

I am constantly amazed by the power of Jesus Christ. It's like watching a powerful storm. To be there as he healed this man would bring you to your knees. I really shouldn't be shocked because I see the day to day power of Jesus in my life. A day doesn't go by at school where I don't look back in amazement. Many times I am amazed how he is using a sinner like me to work with teens. I know who I am. I'm not that great, but with Jesus inside, he is using me. I see it. I feel it. It doesn't make me powerful, awesome, or supernatural. It humbles me to be the tool of the creator of the universe. It humbles me that he sees value in me.  

Lord Jesus I pray for your continued guiding hand in my life. I ask you to watch over my words, thoughts, and actions that they would be pleasing to you. Watch over my family and my only real request is that you reveal yourself to them and that they draw closer to you. Praise God for his love! Amen!

Iron sharpens iron

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. (Proverbs 27:17 NLT)

I've always heard this verse used to talk about men and their friendships. I have had men in my life that do challenge me and sharpen me through holding me accountable, but I have other friends that also sharpen me. The best friend I've ever had is my wife. She knows me. She complements me and is truly a part of me. She is honest with me and is not intimidated by me. She loves me so much that she speaks up when my plans don't seem right. She is not about to let me mess up. She is always there to pick me up or knock me down when I need it.

So, when I read these verses I think of Stephanie. She is what sharpens me! She makes me better. I praise God for this lifetime friendship and wonderful love. I am saddened by people that do not have someone they can call best friend. I am saddened that many freindships don't go more than a status on facebook. 

We need people in our lives that "sharpen" us. That sharpening is for a lifetime.mits not just a one time experience. Lord I thank you for sending Stephanie into my life. I thank you for sending those in my life that sharpen me and make me better, a better servant for you. I praise you for your love. I praise you for my life and the joy of serving you. Amen!

No matter the mess I make, God can fix it!

But when Jesus heard about it he said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” So although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, he stayed where he was for the next two days. Finally, he said to his disciples, “Let’s go back to Judea.” (John 11:4-7 NLT)

God is still in charge. I made a mess of things. I offended a dear friend and I don't know how to fix it. I pray that God does. How typical of my life. When ever I try to do something on my own, I can really mess things up. When I do not take "everything" to God in prayer, I  can really make some poor decisions. Many of those poor choices are out of impatience on my part. I want answers now. I want solutions to be immediate. I want conflict to be healed before it happens. So, when I get tired of waiting on God and go on my own, disaster is soon to follow.

Teach me patience Lord. Help me to see your plan and wait on you for it to unfold. I love you Lord and my over zealousness can really get things messed up. It interferes with my witness and can destroy relationships. Please heal the relationships I mess up. I beg your forgiveness for my lack of discipline and patience. I deserve nothing and you gave everything despite my sins. Thank you Lord for all your love and grace,Amen!

Pastor Ted - Thank You!

Today is a sad and glorious day. My Pastor, Ted Blosser will be laid to rest. Yes, he has gone to be with Jesus. Too early, for us, but as designed by God.

My life has been filled with wonderful Pastors. I can remember nearly every single name. My first was Robert Hunt at First Methodist Church just outside of Indianapolis. Well, really my first Pastor I remember is my own grandfather, Lawrence Lewis. But Rev. Hunt was the first I remember besides my grandfather. We moved to Muncie and I remember Jack Flockhart. It is while in Muncie, I first gave my heart to Jesus. Then we moved to Fort Wayne and had a series of great pastors at a growing Good Shepherd UMC. It was this church that launched my own fathers ministry and it was this church where I learned how to be a follower of Christ. It started with Bob Sievers and then to Joe Penrod, but the next Pastor changed my entire life, Ted Blosser. This young "John Denver" type pastor was so genuine and besides his clear love of Jesus, he shared his love of music, guitar playing, and outdoors, with me and the youth of that church. We traveled on backpack trips to Canada, and Colorado, we had wonderful church camp and senior High Instute experiences. We performed musicals and led worship. My favorite was our trip to Estes Park, Colorado, where all of us youth were confident that we had "hooked up" our youth pastor with his loving future wife Lynn. Those two were a match designed by God. Together they took this scrawny geek of a guy and gave him confidence and strength in myself through my Lord Jesus Christ. They taught me leadership, they taught me to love music, and they taught me to use all my passions for God. I would not be the Chrisitian  I am today without that wonderful couple.

Ted not only raised me as a spiritual teen, he guided Stephanie and I through our relationship. I was only 17 when I knew I wanted to marry Stephanie. Ted counseled us for months before our wedding and for years after. He became our spiritual mentor. He baptized my daughters, along with my father, and married Stephanie and I. He also married my oldest daughter to her husband. He truly has been a key spiritual leader for my entire family. 

As always happens in the life of a Methodist pastor, they get moved from place to place. As my family has grown into kids and grandkids, we only saw each other occasionally over the last several years. But his impact is still felt even 40 years after our initial meeting. I can't help but think of the song "Grandmas in the cellar" . I know it's not exactly a stalwart in the Methodist hymnal, but it brings a smile to my face as I see Ted singing it and playing it on the guitar. Those were grand times and treasured memories. We laughed, cried, shared, learned and treasured the relationship with this wonderful man of God.

My daughters were close with Danny, Teds son, and they too grew up in the church together. I was fortunate to spend time with Teds mom and dad and get to know his sister. He is blessed with a great family. 

Thank you Ted for letting God use you. The power of the Holy Spirit directed my life through your words, actions, and leadership. I pray that Lynn and the entire Blosser family will feel the great love of Jesus through this entire day and the weeks and years to come. Thank you for being a part of my life and the lives of my family.  Praise God for Pastor Ted!

A great two weeks!

And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT)

What a wondeful two weeks.stephanie and I just returned from two glorious weeks with our grandkids. It was a whirlwind from Florida's beaches to camping in Missouri it was a great time. I am a blessed man and praise God for watching over us, protecting us in nearly 4000 miles of road time and countless hours away from home. The memories are well worth the time spent on the road.

Now it's back to school and the rush to finish the end of the school year. We have 36 days of school left and it will definitely be a busy time at school. With CMA Sonrise Riders and with family time. 

Dear Lord, please watch over me and my family as we wind up the school year and head into summer. I don't deserve your wonderful love but you give it freely every day. I praise you for your love. I praise you for the joy you put in my heart. Thank You Lord! Amen!