STAY STILL

I am making progress in reading a couple of books today. I needed a day to stay in and stay still
so I could read. One book speaks of the future while the other speaks of the past. As I read I'm
finding humor on many of the pages of one book while I'm finding sadness saturating almost
every page of the other book. Both books speak about how we humans act and react in our daily
lives. Both books make one stop and think. Both books give hope for those who need it. Yet, if
I were to select one book over the other, I would read Leonard Sweet's, The Gospel According to Starbucks because it is so current. After reading the two, I may read the Comics in the news
paper just for the fun of it. I could use a jolt of laughter righ now. Come to think of it, most of the
comics are too serious today too. That's so sad when the world needs good news for a change.

COMFORT FOOD

One of my favorite treats is a package of Oreo Cookies. Give me Oreo Cookies and some coffee and leave me alone. I'm in Heaven! I love Oreo Cookies because they taste so good. I, like so
many others, like to lick the inside of them, one by one. I love Oreo Cookies as a comfort food.
And I sure could use lots and lots of comfort with these two broken ribs. I have a hiding place
where I stash them from everyone so that they are mine, mine, mine! But being the really nice
Father that I am, I often put the Oreo Cookies right where everyone can get as many of them as they want. It doesn't take long before, "now you see them, now you don't!" As I write this Blog
they are fastly fading from the front of me. The trouble is, my front isn't fading, it's enlarging it's territory. But isn't that biblical? Jabez wanted to enlarge his territory. So, I'm just enlarging my
territory on this Thursday morning as I eat one Oreo cookie after another. They are yum, yum good! And they are just what the Doctor ordered to help me heal faster. It just might take a long, long time because Oreo Cookies must be eaten until I'm healed. Oh what comfort that is .
Excuse me, I've got to freshen up my coffee and get back to my reading while MY OREO COOKIES are fresh. I just hate stale stuff, don't you!

A Hard Read

Today I am going to start re-reading a book I read several years ago. I had lost my copy awhile back so I bought a new copy a few months ago. I am just now picking it up to read, why have I waited so long? It's because I know much of what Man's Search for Meaning is all about. Viktor Frankl wrote about the horror in Nazi death camps. It isn't a book you would want to read over a meal and it is not a book you would want read quickly. It is a book that grabs you and won't let go. I guess that's why I've waited. There are so many other good books to read and that's what I've been doing. But now is the time to pick the book up once again and let it remind me of man's worse treatment of mankind. I know I find myself searching for meaning as I read page after page of this small book with a big message. I will look up to God as I look at each and every page as I read this book once again after many, many years when I was in seminary just outside of Chicago.

"Will You Marry Me?"

I was shocked last week when a woman asked if I would marry her. Why would a lovely young woman want me to marry her? For one thing, I'm already a married man. Why would she want an older man who limps when he walks to marry her? These are tough questions that demand only one answer, will I marry her or not? Well, after thinking things over, I told her that I would marry her. I asked her when she wants to get married. She told me that September would be fine. That's when I asked her the hardest question of all, "why me?" She then informed me that my daughter is one of her good friends. She then informed me that of all the other men she wanted to marry her, I was the one she wants to marry her. Being the very nice man that I am I told her, "It's a date!" So, in September I am going to marry Katie to Chris in Nashville. It will be my first marriage as a pastor in Nashville. I am still stunned that Katie wants me to marry her though. It will be an honor to perform their service.

THE RIGHT STUFF!

One of things that caught my attention turning through, Everyday Greatness by Stephen R. Covey were some simple statements by others. Not wanting to read an entire chapter, I turn to some them. Let me share two that I think say a great deal in only a few words.

"Be sure you put your foot in the right place, and then stand firm." Abraham Lincoln

"The time is always right to do the right thing." Martin Luther King, Jr.

Both of these remind me how important it is to take a right stand and then stick at it no matter what. While it may not always be easy, it is indeed the right thing to do, isn't it?

Whose Driving?

Whose Driving?
"Hey, buddy," said the taxicab passenger, tapping the driver on the shoulder. The driver screamed and lost control of the cab, nearly hitting a bus, jumping the curb and stopping just inches from a hug plate glass window. For a few moments, everything was silent. Then the driver said, "Man, you scared the living daylights out of me!" "I'm sorry," said the passenger/ "I didn't realize a tap on the shoulder would frighten you so much." "It's not your fault," the driver replied. "Today is my first day driving a cab. "I've been driving a hearse for the last 25 years."

This story is from, Everday Greatness by Stephen R. Covey.

SCRUBS

Isn't it amazing how much better one feels followng a shower or a bath? I had felt bad most of the morning until I took a shower. Now I feel much, much better. Those two broken ribs still
hurt but they are clean. All because I feel better following the shower doesn't mean I'll get in
a round of golf or something silly like that!
Eugene Peterson's, Psalms, shares these wonderful words in the 51st Chapter of how God's grace "Scrubs away my guilt, soak out my sins in your laundry." The Lord's Laundry is open
24/7 for washing away our spoiled sins. The Lord's love is the Lava soap that washes away all
our guilty sins. All we have to do is use it whenever we confess of sins. Then we are to forsake
those filty sins forever, like the Lord does. They are forgiven and forgotten. We can come clean
into the presence of our great God Almighty. Know wonder I feel better now that I stop to think
about it.

THE THREE WISE MEN

While I was wide awake early this morning, I realized that I know three of the men running to be the next Governor of Kentucky. I've known Steve Beshear since I was ten years old. Steve
lived across the street from our house in Dawson Springs. I've known Jody Richardson for a few
years. Being from Bowling Green, most everyone knows Jody. I met Steve Henry when I was
serving as Senior Pastor at First United Methodist Church in Campbellsville, Ky. I'm glad to say
that any one of the three would make a good Governor. While I say I know them, they may all
three deny knowing me though. Can you blame them? I still have time to decide which one will
get my vote, if any. That will keep the three wise men on their tip toes awaiting my vote.

"I Didn't Sleep At All Last Night"

"I Didn't Sleep At All Last Night" could of been my theme song from last night. I slept very, very little. The funny thing is that I had taken a sleeping pill to help me sleep. I was reading the Sun-day paper at 5:00 a. m. and had watched the news on tv. Making matters worse, it wasn't worth watching in the first place. I tried counting sheep, dogs and the ticks of the clock, that didn't help either. I have taken three or four short snoozes so far and now I'm about to watch two football games with high hopes of having my two teams win. When I fell a couple of years ago and broke two ribs on my lefft side, I told my Pastor following the Christmas Eve service, " That was the most painful sermon I've ever heard!" About an hour later I was at the Hospital having x-rays to confirm they were indeed broken. Since I didn't want to go through another painful sermon today, and since I was sleepy, I stayed home. I will still bug him about preaching though. If I find myself having trouble sleeping tonight, I'll turn on a tape of one of my own sermons and see if that helps. "Preaching Pills to Snooze Through." Maybe I could sell some?
Would you believe, they are free for the taking. Sleep on it and call me back in the morning.

"THE THIRD DAY"

Last Sunday a Pastor friend preached on the text from John's Gospel where it says, "On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee...." Then he alludes to it as getting "a glimpse of Easter." I love those two text being tied together. They say so muchto me. There is also an old saying that when you are hurt in an accident, it's the third day that hurts the worst. Can have an "Amen!" to that children? I join in the chorus of peopel who have "been there, done that." It happened a couple of years ago when I fell and broke two ribs on my left side. The third day was by far the worse day. Tonight as I type these words, brother's and sister's, I can testify to the fact that it's still true. Today is third day since I fell and broke two ribs on my right side. I have hurt off and on all day, mostly on! It's hard to sleep. It's hard to sit and watch tv. and, it's hard to even cough. That's the main pain!! Well, tomorrow is the fourth day and I look forward to less pain than today. I really do look forward to watching football all afternoon long without sharp stabs in my side. But until this pain in the side is history, I shall endure thanks to pain pills and knowing that "on the third day, Jesus overcame the greatest pain of all, death!

A GREAT DEAL

I'm John Coomer, and I am a coffee-holic. Every time I start reading from Leonard Sweet's, The Gospel According To Starbucks, I have to have a cup of coffee to drink with it. To be honest,
I have to have more than a cup, it's more like two or three cups. And, it's not even Starbucks in your cup. As Sweet says in his book, it's the experience of it all. So, all this got me to thinking.
What if every time I read The Bible, I were to have an experience from it that soothes my soul?
Or, what if I were to experience something that troubles my soul rather than soothes it? The
truth of the matter is that I need both the soothing and the stirring up. They go together so my
soul can be aware of what God's will is for my life. As the saying goes, "sometimes the truth hurts." "No pain, no gain." The Word is written to inspire us but it also instructs us, isn't it?
I am finding myself fascinated with the words of Sweet as I read more and more of this new book. I also am finding myself more and more fascinated as I read the words of Spirit, the Holy
Spirit. What I need to do next is to take these words and think about them a great deal because
they have a great deal to say to and about me. You too, by the way.

I'M A TWO TIMER

As I was walking through one of our bedrooms late yesterday afternoon I fell and broke two ribs on my right side. A couple of years ago I slipped on ice and broke two on my left side. It hurt both times and it still hurts tonight! The Bible says that God took one of Adam's ribs out but he let him sleep through it. I had to sleep on the lazy boy last night and may again tonight. I went to my Doctor and he told me I was blessed that I didn't do more damage than I did. Amen to that! It hurts to get up, it hurts to sneeze and, it hurts to move to the left or to the right. When I hit the bed, it hurt so much that I couldn't even breath. I was by myself in the room so I banged on the wall with a coke can until my wife was able to get to me. She has been such a blessing to me.She slept on the couch in the family room so that if I needed her, she would be right there. She has been at my side through it all. Isn't that why God took a rib from Adam? He knew Adam would need someone by his side. She has been ribbing me ever since but that is okay with me. Our two children have been right by my side as well, asking about how I'm doing and giving me sufficent sympathy. I just hope two times is enough. I like lots of attention, but not this way!

"WHAT'S IN YOUR WALLET?"

When I put my hand in my coat pocket today I felt a piece of paper. I wondered what it was as I pulled it out to take a look at it. It was a note I had written to myself reminding me to do two things. One word said, "Dad." I can gladly say that I called Dad yesterday and talked for quite awhile. The second word said, "Suit." I needed to pick up my suit at the Cleaners. Well, I'm glad to say that these two things have been done. It's the putting the two words together that is much more demanding, "Suit Dad." That's a big job. He always asks when we will be over to see him. Or, he wants something done for him, the sooner, the better too! When I put the two words together, I laughed. I laughed because I will never accomplish suiting Dad. Although I will keep trying, I know that it is the impossible dream. I also know that my own two children don't always suit their Dad either. But that's okay. I love them anyway. I hope my Dad can ditto what I just said when it comes to loving someone who has to write himself a note to do something or else he might forget to remember. I need a nap after all this stuff I've written about myself. So, "Good night and good luck." By the way, what's in your wallet?

Get the Picture?

My wife went to the drug store late yesterday afternoon to pick up some photographs that we had taken some time back. It was a hoot when we looked at them. But there was one that I'll treasure for a long, long time. It shows me standing by one of my favorite writers, Ken Gire. It amazes me that when I mention Gire's name, most people have never heard of him. Gire has written several books over the past years. He did four called, Intense Moments with the Savior, a look at the Lord's life. And my favorite, The North Face of God. I met and heard Ken Gire at The Cove in Ashville, North Carolina last year. Two of his books have his name written inside the cover. One says, "For John, Wishing you all God's best for the road ahead. Warmly, Ken Gire." The other says, "For John, I hope you enjoy this book and that with each chapter you fall a little more in love with the Savor. Warmly in Him, Ken Gire" He has helped me to do just that. That's why I admire him and his writing so very much. Gire has given me glimpses of God to my soul that help me along the road ahead. That's why I recommend his writings to anyone who wants some spiritual sparkplugs to ignite their souls too.

Coffee and Cartoons

They say that confession is good for the soul. So, here goes. Early this morning when changing channels on TV, I started watching cartoons. I laughed while watching and found it be better than watching all the bad news on the other stations. I may make this a morning habit being that it has put me in a better mood for the day. Along with my morning ritual of reading cartoons in the newspaper, coffee and cartoons on TV just might make me a funny fellow. Who knows! I still like to watch that small mouse and big putty cat best of all. Bugs Bunny is a lot like watching all the bad news on those other stations. Now that I've got that off my chest, I better get going. I've got too much to do than to watch TV all morning. I've gotta go back to bed. I got up at 5:55 and it's nap time. Maybe I can dream about being a cartoon character since some say I'm a real character. What bothers me is that I can't understand why anyone would even think such a thing!

DERBY DAY

I am amazed of how much attention our daughter's dog needs and gets. Derby was a Christmas gift from her parents. The thing is, I didn't realize how demanding Derby can be. He has to be fed, taken out and brought back in to do his unmentionable business, picked up after when he doesn't do what he should do where he should do it, if you know what I mean, played with and, be spoiled. It's hard work but somebody's got to do it, right? What also amazes me is how fast Derby has grown in the time he has been with us. This little puppy will be a big dog before we know it. As cute as he is as a puppy, he has to grow though. How can something so small become so big, so fast? You know what? I used to ask that about our two children when they were just little pups, not all that long ago. Derby day is every day for us. And we sure do enjoy it. What Derby enjoys is when Jennifer opens the garage door when she gets home from a day's work. As he wags his tail waiting for her to walk through the back door, it sure makes for a happy ending to Derby's day!

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE YOUR SAME NAME?

When I looked at a blog by Katie this morning, she said something about how many people in America have her same name. That sent me to search out how many people have my same name. There are 81 with the same name. There are 4,923,984 named John and, there are 4919 Coomers in America. I know one other John Coomer, my Father. I know too many other Coomers though. Just kidding. Isn't it interesting that John is the 2nd most popular name in America? So, what is the most popular name in America? That's for me to know and for you to find out! I had no idea that I would take the time to look my name up after reading Katie's Blog. As the song says, "It only takes a spark to get a fire going." By the way, there is only one person in America named John Carroll Coomer. I bet he is a great guy!! Cute too.

FYI: When I told my wife there is only one John Carroll Coomer, she said, "That's one too many." Ouch!!

FYI: I looked up the name of a friend.
First the bad news; There is no such name. Good news: He doesn't have to pay taxes!!

IS SPEEDY DELIVERY IS AT YOUR DOOR?

When our door bell rang a few minutes ago, I got up and went to the door. Before I could open it, through the window I saw the UPS driver driving on off. I looked down and saw a big box.
I knew what it was before picking it up. It was my medicine that I had ordered by phone a few
days ago. I took it in the kitchen and opened the box, put the medicine away and went back to what I had been doing. Then the thought came to me, "what else do I need delivered to my door today?" To be honest, I could use a package of patience. Mine is sorta running low. I could use a
container of courtesy. At times I fail to show kindness as I know I should. And then, I could use a big box of buttons. Often times I need to button my mouth before I say something I shouldn't say. I can't order these things but I can pray that the Good Lord might give them to me today though. You know what? I think he just rang the doorbell of my soul and handed them to me. Now all I have to do is put them to good use. What do you need delivered to your soul today? All you have to do is put in your order by prayer and who knows, Speedy Delivery just might show up sooner than you think! Hey! Don't knock it!

"Who Let the Dog's Out?"

It was raining hard this morning when both Huskies made a run for it. They were out the door and far down the street before I could even sneeze. They don't seem to mind that it is raining.
They don't seem to mind that it's turning cooler by the minute. They don't seem to mind that
it will be dark before much longer. Worse of all, they don't seem to mind that we feed them, water them, shelter them, love them and, yes, miss them when they are acting like this. Three
of us have gone out to call them home. I have tried food to get them in. All they do is stare at
me as if to say, "You sure are dumb standing out here in all this rain! I'm gonna tell on you! Where is your Momma?" It has happened before. It will happen again. They get out. Despite it all, we still love them. Isn't that the way God is with us too? Think about it.

CONVERSATIONS OVER COFFEE

One of my favorite things to do is to meet with a friend over coffee and chat. Fact is, I do this as
often as I can because I enjoy the conversation and the coffee. In The Gospel According To
Starbucks, Leonard Sweet asks this question, "If you could get together with just one person from history for coffee and conversation (other than Jesus) whom would it be? Why that person?" Give this question some thought this week and see just whom it might be. Don't rush into answering it, let your thoughts brew awhile first. Go ahead and have a conversation with Christ over coffee. Share with the Savor. Listen to the Lord. The Bible, a good book, a good friend, good coffee and food, all these can be hearing aids to hear from the Lord.
Coffee in your cup and Christ in your heart, sounds like a good plan to me.

A CALL TO ACTION

"In the beginning."
Today is a day of rememberance and a call to action. Dr. Martin luther King, Jr. Day isn't to be a
day off from work and that's that. It is a day to remind us that we all have privledges and re-
sponsibilties as citizens of this Country. Too often, too many of us take things for granted, don't
we? Maybe we are too spoiled. Maybe we forget to remember that there is a price paid for the
freedom we have. Even as you read this Blog, there are men and women far, far away fighting for freedom. It's a high price tag yet, there they are doing what they can. What are we doing to
preserve freedom?
Luke 4: 16 ff, are Jesus' words about freedom. He tells what He has come to do. He says, "The
Spirit of the Lord is upon me.......He has sent Me to let the oppressed go free..." What has the
Spirit of the Lord told you to do to help people be free from something or, from someone? Who
has helped set you free from something or someone? How did they do it? What are we doing to set others free from some sort of oppression? Maybe, just maybe, you and I need to be bolder
in our actions than we are. With God's help, we can put into practice actions that set people
free. Why wait? Do it now. That's what Jesus did. He was sent. Are you? If so, are you going?

SOME SWEET STUFF

I have been waiting like a little boy at a candy store for something I've been wanting ever since I heard it was soon to be available. Well, this morning while I was visting two of my best friends, Barnes & Noble, I saw it on the shelve. I didn't think it would even be available until next Tuesday. What am I talking about any anyway? The Gospel According to Starbucks by Leonard Sweet. I've read every book he has written and this is the 13th book of his that I have in my study. Sweet's style of writing is special. It's even better to hear him in person, which I did a few years ago. When I emailed him to thank him for sharing spiritual thoughts, and an email came to me that very night thanking me for thanking him.
I am about to have some coffee, sorry to say, not Starbucks, a sweet roll, no pun intended, and
begin reading this latest 210 pages book. I know that my soul with be nourished and challenged as I dig deep into it's pages. I will report back to you after I've read it. No doubt, it will be well
worth hearing about. Better yet, go out and buy you're own copy and see for yourself. It's
really Sweet stuff!

Quizmaster

When I'm watching tv at times I lean over an pick up a small electronic game by twin brother gave me for Christmas. It's called Quizmaster11. It ask me questions from several selections: Sport, Geography, General Knowlegde, Science, Arts and History. Some are easy and some are hard, very hard. I have found this tiny hand held game lures me to test my knowlegde, or the lack thereof. What amazes me thus far is that I know more than I thought I would. I have a hard time accepting the fact that I miss some easy questions yet get the tough stuff without a great deal of difficulity. I think I'm going to watch more of the History Channel and less of the shows that waste my time and my knowledge. The Quizmaster is a great game. I challenge you to go get one and see if you are as smart as you think you are. I double dog dare you to see who is the master!

A PUPPY- BAG FOR A PUPPY

When I met a friend for breakfast I showed him some pictures of my our daughter's dog. He is a
puppy named Derby. After we were through eating, I had some gravy still on my plate. Getting
up to leave, the waitress asked if I wanted a puppy bag for my Grandpuppy. I told her that he
would be at that stage far too fast as it is, why help him? Derby's diet is very restrictive so he won't eat too much and won't eat the wrong thing. All this got me to thinking that maybe my diet isn't restrictive enough. Maybe I should cut back and not eat as much as I often do. The fact is, I didn't eat as much as I usually do when I eat at that resturant. Maybe the little feller is rubbing off on me for the good.

UP AND AT IT!!!

I got out of bed at 5:00 this morning to takes two of our dogs out. I planned to go back to bed but didn't. As I was walking back into the kitchen I noticed that our son had a couple of
work shirts that needed to be ironed. So, I did that for him. Then I noticed that he had some
things still needing to be dried in the close dryer. So, I did that for him. Knowning I had to be
somewhere at 8:00, I shaved and showered. Being the nice husband that I am, I always put out
a small bowl for my wife, along with a cup and spoon. Well, this morning I placed the largest
bowl I could find out for her. She might not mention it to me or, she might hit me with it! I call
all this the Fun Bowl.
Have a great day. I'm going out and get the morning paper and see if my name is in the obits. If
it's not, I'll get ready to meet my friend for breakfast. If my name is there, I'll just close my eyes and go back to bed.

A BOOK REVIEW

In a few Blog's back, I mentioned that I was starting to read, Three Weeks with My Brother, by Nicholas Sparks and Micah Sparks. Well, last night I finished reading this 356 page book. To my
surprise, I found the book to be a quick read. Also to my surprise, I found myself thinking about
my own brothers quite often. These two brothers take a trip that last three weeks that bonds
them together like super glue. Along the way, one of the brothers shares stories of their child-
hood and adulthood. There is humor and there is a great deal of hurt. I think this is a book that
has helped me come closer to my own three brothers ( my oldest brother and sister died a few years ago) when I stop and think about what this book has to say. So, one of my resolutions for
the new year is to spend more time with them if they will let me. After all, the three of them are
getting older as the hours pass, especially my twin. This has been a not only a good book to review but a good review of my brothers.

A FRIENDLY REMINDER

Friday morning I'll be having breakfast with a friend of mine. I haven't seen Paul since last year. I doubt he has changed much since that time, nor have I. We're both still silly somebodies who
have lots of laughs and even get down to some serious stuff from time to time. I think that's why the two us like to be together. We're good for one another. He helps me and I hope, I help him. He sure needs it! As I have said so many times, friends are very important, so very, very important. Why is it that some people seem not to have many friends, or even worse, no friends at all? As the saying goes, "You have to be a friend to have a friend." What amazes me so much is that some people can't understand why some people's friends are who they are. They don't seem to have much in common, yet, they have become the best of friends. Daily, I thank the Lord for my friends. Even though I kid alot about having to rent them, I don't. I simply seek to be friendly with everyone I can, everywhere I go. Somehow, it works. For that, I'm grateful to the best Friend of all, Jesus Christ.

JUST THINKING TO MYSELF

My wife and I were in Nashville today to see someone and go shopping. While my wife was in a
shop, I stayed in the car to read. While waiting, I kept watching people going into and coming out of some small shops. Most were by themselves while a few were with other people. Most of the shoppers were women of course. No one stayed in any one shop too long except for my wife. She must of had a lot to do. The best thing about the day was being with her and go out for lunch. I had to have my youngest brother come over to our house to watch our daughter's do, Derby. He said they got along just fine. All in all, it has been a good day. In fact, it's been a long day since I was up by 5:30. While I need a nap, I think I will try to stay awake until I go to bed in a few more hours. Someone has to watch the thee dogs playing in the Family room to make sure they behave. Besides, it's fun going to the dogs! I might even roll over and beg if they treat me right. Well, you can forget that because I'm all bark! But that's okay. I know they love me just the way I am. Who wouldn't love someone like me? Hey! That wasn't very nice!

GOOD NEWS

One of my favorite books is Psalms by Eugene Peterson. Peterson translates the Psalms into contemporary language that makes these old Psalms sound so new. The 11th Psalm is a good example. The New Revised Standard Version starts out with these words: "In the Lord I take refuge; how can you say to me, "Flee like a bird to the mountains..." Peterson puts it this way: "I've already run for dear life straight into the arms of God. So why would I run away now....." I can almost see a Great God with His arms spread far apart welcoming me into His sheltering wings. Isn't that what Jesus seems to say in the Parable of the Prodigal Son? The Message by Peterson puts it that way: "When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him..." It's as if I've gone form black and white to color, Hi-Definition all of the sudden. Today's translations speak to today's people in a new and powerful way about a Powerful and Wonderful God who bids us run straight into His great big, open arms. Isn't that Good News!!

Prayer: Almighty God, thank You for Your Word that speaks not only about us but to us in such a way that we're transformed by it. The written Word of the Lord is all about the Lord of the Word. Speak Lord, your servant is listening. Amen.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM A WISE MAN

When I went to the Barber shop this morning I had no idea how wonderful it would be. A former president of Western Kentucky University, Dr. Dero Downing, was having his hair cut. Since I met him several years ago, we engaged in conversation while we were there. One of the barbers asked the two of us a moral question that was very tough to answer. Being the wise man that I am, I let the much wiser man speak first. In fact, I didn't say anything at all after hearing him. He simply said, "Tell him that his past is past, and now all he has is the present and the future, and get on with his life!" Wow! What wisdom. I agree 100% with this much older and much wiser man. And, it reminded me why he is considered to be one of the very best presidents WKU has ever had. He listened and then he spoke. And when Dero Downing speaks, everyone listens. I hope I run into him again soon so I can glean much more from this him. When I walked out the door I realized I not only look better, I'm much wiser. I just hope it shows.

A Funny Friend

When I turned on the printer to print out something Tuesday night, one of our dogs was passing by the printer. All of the sudden she jumped and ran out of the room as if her tail were on fire! It was so funny that I laughed long and loud. I think I may try it again some time soon and see if she still jumps. I wish I had it taped for America Home Videos so I could make some money to pay for all the dog food our three dogs eat each and every day. Now there's the real shocker! They say that dogs are man's best friends. Well, I think they are right. They may cost a lot but they are well worth it. They are friends forever. I don't know about you, but I for one can use all the friends I can get. Even if I have to rent them. (Just kidding, friend.)

THE NO SNOW SHOW, SNOW

When I went to get the afternoon newspaper it was snowing. But as fast as it came, it went. I couldn't get back in the house fast enough to tell my wife to look out the window and see the snow. It was as if, "Now you see it, now you don't!" I think she thought I wasn't telling the truth. But I always tell the truth even if I have to lie to do it! I hope that isn't it! Surely snow will show again before too much longer. I love to watch it snow. I love to play in the snow. I love to see the snow go. So, "Let it snow, let it snow..." I have a snow shovel and I can handle it. I just let the snow sit there and soon it melts away. No need to remove it because it takes of it's self. It may take awhile, but sooner or latter, the snow will go. And that's what I'm bout to do, go away and come some other day. Now that's a cool idea! Or, is it a lot of hot air? Don't answer that, please!!!!!!!!!

A GREAT GUIDE

"In the Beginning."
Monday I began reading, The Diary of a Country Priest. I've heard about and read about this tiny book for years, I just never read it, until now. While I may not agree with all he has to say, I think I'll be spiritually enriched by it. I have served small churches and large churches in my forty-two years of being a Pastor. I have an idea I will see similarities as I turn through the pages. What amazes me is how the troubles of today that show up in churches are the same troubles that where there years and years ago. But best of all, the blessings of today are the blessings of years and years ago. The important thing is that Jesus never changes, While all else and all others change, Christ is always faithful to His Church. I just wish that could be said of me and you.

Prayer: Lord of the past, present and future, help me to keep my eye's upon the One is the Pioneer and Perfector of our faith. When I wander off on some wrong road, bring me back and guide me in the right direction as I seek to serve and love You. As the One who never changes, change me when and where I need it. I pray this in Your Holy Name. Amen.

PREPARING TO PREACH

A year ago I preached several Sunday's at a small country church in another county. I am amazed that I will be preaching there again this year. I don't know what has happened and why it happened but I do know they need someone to show some compassion and concern for them.
I had planned to hear a dear friend preach Sunday here in Bowling Green but that will have to be put "on hold" for now. He and his wife have bought a house here in Bowling Green and soon will be moving in so I know we will see lots of one another.

It is a pleasure to preach and I even love preparing to do it. I think I already know what I want and feel I need to say Sunday. It is a new sermon that I started working with just this morning. I am anxious to hear it if I may say so myself. And, I just did. Prayer prepares the Preacher and the people as the two listen to the Word of the Lord. May both be ready when God speaks to our hearts with gifts of Grace and words of inspiration and instruction.

WHAT GOOD ARE GOOD INTENTIONS?

Last week I took three days off to be in my hometown, Lexington, Kentucky. It was as if I were on a neat retreat. I did very little. I read and relaxed. I even shopped till I dropped! On my way home I stopped to see my dad who will be 95 in April. All in all, it was a wonderful Christmas gift from my wife.

When I walked in the door I was in for a shock. Although only gone for three days, the puppy we gave our daughter for Christmas met me at the door looking taller and like he had put on weight. It was hard to believe that Derby had changed so quickly. Then I made a mistake by looking at the man in the mirror and realized how he had changed over the Christmas season. He had put on weight and looked like he had shrunk in his height. What a sight to behold!

Isn't it amazing how we change and how things change? Is it for the good or for the bad? Maybe we all need to reflect upon how we can do and be better in 2007. I know I sure intend to drop a few pounds and see if I can even stand up straighter. But what good are good intentions if we're not good at keeping them? Maybe we can help one another by something we say or something we do. A word of encouragement can do us all good. I have a good idea; let's change for the good this year. What do you say?

GOD KNOWS YOUR NAME

While we were taking Communion in church, I sat and watched person after person pass by as they were returning to their seats. Since I served as a Pastor at Broadway several years ago, I knew some of these people, but very few of them. As the hundreds of people passed by, the thought came to my mind, I may not know their names, but God does. He knows their names, ages, SS numbers, addresses, phone numbers, children, pets, etc. He even knows their sins. And, He knows your’s, too. Yet, with all He knows about you, God still loves each and every one of us. That is great to know as we journey on into yet another new year. Communion reminds us all that Jesus lived and died for all of us and all of our sins. What we need to know and remember is to call upon the Name of God's Son and confess our sins and He forgives and forgets every one of them, everyone! Worship was wonderful because we worship a Wonderful God.

GOD AND GERALD

"In the beginning...."
While watching the services for former President Gerald Ford Wednesday, I was impressed with what was said about him. I was impressed with the music, the Scriptures, the sermon, and the way God was given a great deal of attention. Often times, God is shoved to the top shelve and left alone until He is needed again some other time, for some other reasons. Not so, today. God seemed to show up in many ways, many times. That's what the Ford family wanted as thanks was given for Gerald Ford's long life and service. Indeed may it be said, "Well done, thy good and faithful servant." My prayer is that you and I seek to serve the Lord and others so that God be glorified as He shows up through what we say and what we do.

Prayer: Thanks for those who go about their daily lives serving You and others. Thanks for all that they do and say. May we serve You, Almighty God, not for our own glory, but for Your's. Now and always. Amen.

"HOLD ON"

I like what The University of Louisville coach told his football players preceeding the upcoming season. He told them, "Hold the rope." In other words, they all have to pull each other up. If someone is hurt, the others have to carry on. Tonight, this team plays in the Orange Bowl against Wake Forest. They have helped each other keep on keeping on. And look what it's gotten them!
I wonder who you and I know who needs us to hold them up? They may not ask for help. They
may not think they need help. But you and I can offer help with our words and/or our actions.
Isn't that what the Good Samaritian did? We need to go and do likewise, don't we? What's holding us back from holding others up? Maybe we need to offer ourselves as we carry on with this thing called life.

"HIS NAME WAS JOHN"

"In the beginning..."
As I begin a new year, I reflect upon forty-one years of being in the ministry. A Scripture that has a special place in my heart comes from John 1: 6 and following. "There was a man sent from God, whose name was John....." Ever since I was called into the ministry, I've sought to serve
my Savour faithfully. As St Paul says in Acts, "And now I commend you to God....". That is what I've wanted to do throughout the years since being sent. I've been sent several places to serve
several people, in several ways. From the beginning, I have looked to the Lord to lead me and
give me strength. He has been faithful in all ways, at all times. Now that 2007 has begun, may
I continue in some way to be faithful the One who has sent me in His name. "His Name was
John" was a popular song a few years ago. Yes, my name is John, but there is a Name I love
to hear.....Jesus.....and I want everyone, everywhere to hear His Name above all names.

Jesus, Your name is precious because we are precious to You. Thanks for loving us as we are
but not letting us stay that way. Change us for Your glory. Amen.

Puppy Love

"And they call it puppy love.." are some of the words from a song sung by Paul Anka many years ago. "Puppy Love" is what we're experiencing at our house since Christmas. Our daughter was given a puppy that she has named Derby. Derby is a cocker spaniel who has won our hearts as a cute and cuddly little fellow. We love to hold him. We love to play with him. We love to watch him. We even love taking him outside to go to the bathroom. Since we gave her Derby, we have to dog sit while our Daughter works. We don't mind doing it since we're the ones who "let the dog in." And in he is, in our hearts, that is. Our son's two dogs are getting use to having Derby following them all around the house. They try to ignore him when he is chewing on their paws, but after awhile, they jump up on the couch so they can sleep. At times we call Derby, Derby Pie. And, most the time when we call Derby, Derby trots on over to where we are. The woman who sold us Derby should have had a sign saying: "WARNING: DERBY IS CONTAGIOUS!" All of us have a real bad case of Puppy Love! I doubt we ever get over it.

AND THE BEAT GOES ON....

A strange thing happened when I woke up early this morning. While I still in bed, I felt my pulse beat. I was amazed at how it just keeps on keeping on. It didn't stop and rest during the night as had done. It didn't ask me for New Year's Day off. It simply keeps on keeping on. That's what I want to do as I begin yet another new year. I want to keep on keeping on at living as long as I can. I want to keep on keeping on at loving and being loved as long as I can. I want to keep on keeping on at thinking. My twin gave me a game that ask mental questions of me. I'm amazed at how many answers have been correct thus far as I play the game. Lastly, but most importantly, I want to love the Lord who has saved my soul. These are not new year resolutions, they are things that I must do if I am to live a full and faithful life as the beat goes on, and on, and on, and....