31 days of prayers.... for our children

It occurred to me this morning on the way to work that I have kept a great promise in praying for our children this month. Also to always include a prayer in my daily prayers for my family, my church and my rock group children ~ Especially our teenagers! - One of the things that God has opened my eyes this year has been my kids at school. Kyles classmates. What a year it has been ... there is nothing better to raise a mood - to raise expectations- to bring a smile to a face than spending time with these kids.... unconditional love in the simplest of forms. Each of these children are special and bring something different to everything - in the way they see things, examine things, share things - feel things. They are such a great group of kids and even though school only has a few more weeks left - I will be spending as much time there as I can until the end of the year. Who knows what next year will be like... my sons teacher may not be as open to a dad to come and share his time with this new class.... the kids will be older and they may be a little more grown up then ... who knows - but I have sure enjoyed my year with my kids.
We have a few more lunches left - a field day - a pool party for the boys that my wife Carol has arranged, planned and made happen. It will be weird seeing my kids in the halls next year in all different classes and at different times - not all together. I pray there will always be that smile on their face when they see me- even if they are in different classes and its only a moment to say hey Mr. B!!
God opened these doors for me - a door I never knew was there. A door to my heart for children no matter what they are going through in life. I will forever remember 3rd grade.

31 days of prayer this month - at a time when summer is almost here and the kids are out of school. A few months before I get to see them again. Some will move to another city - another school. All of them moving onto another teacher and another class. 31 days of prayer for my small group children - who I have the honor to love and to see each week - to influence and share Jesus with them and their parents as we do this life ~together~!
God is pretty awesome with this incredible plan. Glad I had the courage to walk through the door that I didn't even know was there until now... but God knew all along was there for me, if I would just have the courage to do it.
What door is awaiting you - do you have the courage to step forward in something that God has right in front of you? Take the risk - take the chance loved ones. God has things worked out and His plan is in motion if only you would trust in Him.
Love you all,
Randy~

Children - May 31

31 days of prayer for our children~

Reliance on God

May our children grow to trust You Lord with all of their heat and not lean on their own understanding
(Proverbs 3:5)

Children May 30

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Trust

Help our children Lord understand that it is better to take refuge in you than to trust in other people
(Psalm 118:8)

Tough getting out of the gate...

Wow its been harder than normal to get back into gear today after a few days off. Is it Monday or Tuesday? Maybe I am too sore from moving rocks and a night of sleep that I awoke lots of times thinking about what I had to do today. Did I get to all of them - LOL. I have to admit that I did not have my bible while we were away the last 4 days - nor did I blog much - just kind of unplugged from things for a bit. Its good to do that from time to time but I work best when I am focused and in gear. Its hard for me to unwind since I am on the move all the time. I look forward to seeing some church family this week at the ball fields as Kyle has 2 games this week. I look forward to Sunday and getting back to serving and hearing a great message from Pastor Jimmy. I look forward to seeing my Rock Group family and planning ahead this summer for some baseball tickets, movie night and maybe even a pool cookout party. :)
As I look at the months schedule and who is serving this month - it has hit me like a ton or rocks that we just don't have enough folks serving and stepping up to the plate. Things fall on the shoulders of very few people - they are always there ready to serve and come in to get dirty. Thank goodness for those few folks.
I remember telling Carol to relax - pray for folks to come and serve - when she took over the children's ministry. I need to hear that advice today. I have never been great at long term plans - they eat me for lunch because I am on fire to get the job done - blast it and be done with it kind of guy. Just ask Carol with any great idea's she has had - That's how we have a pool and a cabin...... her idea's not mine!
Anyways - I know that the Lord will send us some folks to serve in the ministry area's we need at church. We just have to continue to lead and lead by example - show the value of serving and not just spending our time and wheels. There is great value in serving at your church - friendships are formed there - people pray for you there and you gain a sense of value to your church family. Ownership - Commitment. Valuable things to learn today.

2 Thessalonians 3
11We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. 13And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right.

Thanks for letting me vent a little today... Idle time and sitting still? Tough on me..... time to get back in the saddle so God can take us places and the chance to show others His awesome favor.

Randy~

Children May 29

31 days of prayer for our children~

Servant's Heart

May our children not lack diligence and be fervent in spirit as they serve you Lord.
(Romans 12:11)

Monday evening dump....

I am tired from the 3 days off - honest. I think we all are after running for 3 days and doing things we normally don't do and taking us all out of our routine. Moving rocks, building a flower garden, fishing, swimming and getting the boat ready - taking the dogs for 2 walks a day - whew - tough being out in the woods. Carol told me today that she is glad we have a small cabin - no way were we going to camp in the woods with a tent, sleeping bags, no A/C, or direct-tv - or a hair dryer.!! Hey who needs that anyways ways??.... now TV - that's another story.
It's always great to get away - to unwind and change the routine- We all slept till 8:30 almost every morning - thats a miracle! We look forward to more time up at the cabin during the summer. More time to rest, to plan and dream.
I can't wait till Sunday and getting back to church - serving setup and will probably do a double with breakdown. It cool - I am ok with doing my part in making a difference in showing someone - Jesus. Its life changing stuff. I look forward to hearing more of Jimmy's plans this week and getting up to speed with them.
God is on the move..... hang on!
Randy~

Children May 28

31 days of prayer for our children~

Steadfastness

May our children Lord be steadfast, immoveable and always excelling in Your work. Their labor will not be in vain
(1Corinthians 15:58)

Children May 27

31 days of prayer for our children~

Obedience to God

Remind our children Lord to obey You rather than men
(Acts 5:29)

Children May 26

31 days of prayer for our children~

Mercy

Help us Lord to teach our children that Your mercy is from generation to generation for those who fear You
(Luke 1:50)

Friday night update...

I just wanted to say thanks to all the happy birthday wishes yesterday. From my party yesterday morning at work - to the lunch with my kids - to the guitar practice with Brandon and getting a chance to sit on the couch and talk frankly with Jimmy and Rich - to supper at Mexicasa with Carol and Kyle, my sister Patty - my brother Danny and my dad. AWESOME day I must say. thanks to all of you - 41 now - whew LOL

I don't think I ever heard my dad laugh so much as I did yesterday. He and my brother Danny are making up for lost time over the years and I am glad for them! My sister (cousin) Patty is happy. Vance if you are reading this - hey keep up the good work bud! I am smiling when my sis is smiling! I haven't met you yet but I do know you already. My brother Craig is doing well I am happy to report - his job is going great and his family is well. He has started his summer catfish fishing again - nothing like pulling in a 30 pounder!

Well we are at the cabin for a few days. Have a garden to plant tomorrow so just a little work. :) We have a tree down - which I will cut up later this year - some fishing and swimming planned. Tonight is a clear sky - so I will be chatting with mom for a bit like I always do up here with the thousands of stars to see.

Well - happy birthday to my grandma today! Grandma Hazel is 81 ~ Still talking about riding that Harley :)

Love you all,
Randy

Children May25

31 days of prayer for our children~

Self - Control

Do not allow our children Lord to be tempted beyond what they can bear, but provide a way of escape for them
(1Corinthians 10:13)

Thanks dad!

Let me begin today with sharing with everyone - how awesome the church service was in the park! Got there a little early - the band had everything under control and were setting up almost everything so there was not much for the setup crew to do - until the grill showed up! They backed it in - YES You heard right - they backed the grill in and fired it up. Cooking surface probably 6x8 feet! Little did I know that I was appointed the COOK. So to work I went.... trying to remember the old college days and all those early morning summer hours while in school - those late evening work nights when Carol would wait for me to get off work at 9 so we could hang out a little. See my dad taught me how to work the grill. If anyone has never worked a grill - Short order cook - that is some hard work. My dad has done this type of work his entire life and let me tell ya - its tough stuff. Sure it's only cooking on the grill - but when you are cooking like that and things flying all over the place, no rest for the weary - no break from the action and we are talking about people's food here - we know how we are about our food!
I think we cooked 150 Hamburgers and 200 hotdogs.... I may be off on the numbers being that the numbers are too LOW - but with the help of my buddies - Mike, Mike and Dan - we got 'er done.
WOW - awesome time with friends we invited coming - good music and a short message - in the park. It was great - Pastor Jimmy even saying how cool this was and we need to do this more often cool.
Dad - I learned all that from you. Thanks...... I haven't cooked like that in years and I am sure without your training and guidance and setting a good example - I would not have been able to do it. It was great seeing everyone happy with their food - being at church - and just loving each other because we are all part of Gods family.

Psalm 37:4
4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.

I couldn't agree more because God sure has my family and I on a great path right now. Riding the wave .......
Today is my birthday today - 41 years old. Going to have lunch with Kyle and my kids today. Nothing refreshes the soul like children. God must feel the same way.
Loving life ~

Peace out,
Randy

PS: Thanks again pops!

Children May 24

31 days of prayer for our children~

God's Grace

Thank You for Your grace Lord, so that our children may have everything they need and may excel in good works for You.
(2Corinthians 9:8)

When your whole world changes...

This has been a busy week thus far - with a few days off hanging over my head! I look forward to spending a few days at the cabin this coming weekend - a little down time - a little family time - a little work time and a little FUN time.
Our church services for this Sunday have been moved to tonight. Frank Liske Park - with hamburgers and hotdogs - a little music and a little preaching by Pastor Jimmy. I am really pumped about it because I have some folks who I have been inviting to church for months - who will be there! I pray that God moves the park!!!
I remember those days of just out of feeling better about myself or some "internal" obligations to go to church. Those days are long gone.
I understand now - the importance of it all. I have given my heart to Jesus - not just what I want to give Him - or allow Him to have. He has it all and honestly - Thats when my whole world changed.

John13: 31-36
31When he was gone, Jesus said, "Now is the Son of Man glorified and God is glorified in him. 32If God is glorified in him,[b] God will glorify the Son in himself, and will glorify him at once.
33"My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come.
34"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
36Simon Peter asked him, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus replied, "Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later."

Carol, Kyle and I are enjoying a good ride here with inviting folks to church. Having them come on their own now and kids are in Sunday school - they are enjoying the message. It wont be long before they are serving and really buying into the "life change" that takes place. I am really excited about what God is doing in our lives - our church - our small group and the support it has right now.
I hope to post on how tonight goes...... I can't wait. God is taking me to a new place...... taking others with me. I am enjoying the walk!

Children May 23

31 days of prayer for our children~

Righteousness

Help us Lord to model for our children that You are righteous and You love righteous deeds.
(Psalm 11:7)

When in doubt - PRAY

One of the things I have been doing the last year and a half is keeping a journal. A time where I spend with God in prayer writing down my heart - I have lost track of it this month for some reason and I am unclear if God is moving me away from it or if I am ready for something new. It has been on my mind for a few weeks now if I should continue to write in it - maybe it will be neat down the road to read it when I am gone or to pass it along to my son or wife. I am unclear right now if this is something I should continue to do. God has me motivated and doing so many things that are good for His kingdom. I have to make the time now and sometimes its really hard to find those 20 minutes a day to type down what is really on my heart. I have been sharing this journal with some family members who are really close to me. People I could tell anything in the world to and not feel one bit of shame or embarrassment. It does let them know I am praying for them and praying for things in their lives that is important - maybe to bond us together and keep us in focus of God and what blessings we have in our lives. As I think back over the last few years doing this Jabez journal - it has been a great blessing in building those relationships - in building trust between us and really putting myself out there with how I am feeling and admitting also that I don't have it all together - that I am also scared with things... especially when God is asking me to do things I have never done and taking risks. God has proven to me over and over again that he is faithful. To continue to pray about the things that are dragging me down - you down and to give my thanks more importantly. To keep my family safe and to help us all grow in His understanding. There are setbacks - we are human and we make mistakes. Sometimes its hard to wait on God and listen - just for the right moment when the doors open and we can close that hurtful chapter behind us and to walk into greener pastures. The things is, God is with us during those times - the good times and the bad times. He endures with us and if we keep our eyes on Jesus - He will bring us through those seasons in life - He will bring people into our lives to help us - even if its for only a short season - there is much to learn during these periods and from these folks. Waiting is probably the hardest thing to do and if we don't wait we open ourselves to hurtful decisions. Waiting on marriage - waiting for that promotion or that new job - waiting to move - waiting on God to deliver us from the pain we are in right now with the loss of someone we love - a great friend having to move because of a job and you have been really close all this time and your feeling that people just leave when you get close. I am here to tell you loved ones, to trust in Jesus - to pray for those things and for Him to show you the way. God will bless you and the things you are struggling with if you put your trust in Him. What are you doing today that would bring a blessing to someone? Are you dragging someone down or raising someone up? What is God asking YOU to do today that you are not doing? Are you taking a risk for God and inviting someone to church - to speak the truth and standing up for what is right? Is something holding you back from where God could take you - like an addiction or a past pain in life that keeps you where you are?

Are you practicing the practical love of Jesus? Those who don't know Jesus - the only part of Jesus that they may know is what your actions and words are. Set a good example for Jesus...

There’s an old adage that says, “God’s answer to your prayer is seldom early, but it is never late!” God will give you the grace you need when you’re in His timing. So if you will keep a right attitude and not allow bitterness or resentment to take hold, then at the right time, in due season, God will answer your prayers. The answer may be “No,” or something different than you think, but it will be for your best. Habakkuk 2 tells you that God has an appointed time to answer your prayers so that you receive just what you need at just the right time. You probably have plans and dreams that God has put in your heart; wait for His timing to bring these dreams about. Your situation will improve, but on God’s timetable, not yours!

Habakkuk 2

For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.” (Habakkuk 2:3)

Lord I pray today for those who are hurried - to hear from God in some way ~ I believe Lord You are at work in our lives bringing about what You know is best for us. Our desire today is to be patient as we faithfully await Your answers.

Children May 22

31 days of prayer for our children~

Contentment

I pray that our children may accept and live knowing that godliness with contentment is great gain.
(1 Timothy 6:6)

Directions from Proverbs...

I come to you writing this today with many good things on my heart. We had such an awesome church service yesterday. We had our evening with the children's ministry out at the local park fishing and having a picnic. We have our Sunday services next week move to this coming Wednesday evening at the Amphitheatre at the local park with hamburgers and hot dogs! This is going to be an exciting week coming up.

God is taking us places..... Hope He is moving in your life as well. If He is not - ask yourself why - what is it that He is not moving in your life...

Proverbs 2:6-15
God gives out Wisdom free, is plainspoken in Knowledge and Understanding.He's a rich mine of Common Sense for those who live well, a personal bodyguard to the candid and sincere.He keeps his eye on all who live honestly, and pays special attention to his loyally committed ones. 9-15 So now you can pick out what's true and fair, find all the good trails!Lady Wisdom will be your close friend, and Brother Knowledge your pleasant companion.Good Sense will scout ahead for danger, Insight will keep an eye out for you.They'll keep you from making wrong turns, or following the bad directionsOf those who are lost themselves and can't tell a trail from a tumbleweed,These losers who make a game of evil and throw parties to celebrate perversity,Traveling paths that go nowhere, wandering in a maze of detours and dead ends.

Just some encouragement for those who are weary:

"Get up," and "don't be afraid."
"We need to look beyond ourselves."
"We've been commanded to take this Message to the world."
"Every week is someone's first week in this church."
"America is seeking God like crazy, but they're not coming to Church to find him."
"We need to focus on what matters."
"Time with God is the most important thing you do. Period."

"It insults God when we dream small dreams."

Keep your eyes on Jesus - He will keep you afloat and on top of the sinking waters. We can do all things through Christ Jesus. Why are your plans not working today? Maybe you have forgotten to ask God to get involved and to show you the way. His plans are far better than yours. Today is a great day!
Randy~

Children May 21

31 days of prayer for our children~

Salvation

May our children Lord grow to understand that You saved us according to Your mercy
(Titus 3:5)

Children May 20

31 days of prayer for our children~

Responsibility

Help us Lord to teach our children that in this world, each of us are responsible for our own choices
(Galations 6:5)

Children May 19

31 days of prayer for our children~

Faithfulness

Help our children Lord remember that those who plan good find loyalty and faithfulness
(Proverbs 14:22)

Its all about Him

I recently was up in Ararat Virginia a few weeks back working at my uncle and grandmothers green house and visiting/working with almost all my aunts and I took this picture on the way down the mountain. I just love church signs - they either draw us into the church or they push us away. I think about my church, where we don't have a home yet and think about that sign that will be out front. Who will update it - who will decide what goes on it? Will it push people away or draw them in. If the sign is for church people, well, they are either going to our church or somewhere else... so what is the point. We are all on the same team and not to steal other members from other churches right? So the signs main goal is to draw the unchurched into church - to make some sense out of something in their lives - all wrapped into one sentence or catchy phrase.
So - this sign - "Its not about us; its all about Him" - wow - that really makes sense to me. But does it make sense to someone who does not go to church? They know nothing of God - all they know is themselves and that is who they have been trying to please and make happy all their lives. So the sign really does not make no sense to the unchurched. It does give us a reminder at times for those folks who follow Jesus or those who have fallen away from Jesus. If we really focus on those words - "Its not about us" - yes it is not all about us. The first line in the book written by Rick Warren - The purpose driven life - it says - its not about us. We are to live our lives for others. We are to reach out and help those in need and those who are hurting. Its about giving a blessing to someone and not always taking one. Your needs before our own.
"Its all about Him" - yes indeed - its all about Jesus. Its why we are here... We are why He came. If we follow the guidelines He taught us and passed down to us through His word and by His actions - we will live a blessed life because we would understand the importance of living for others - to give to others instead of taking -we would have lived our lives with purpose and meaning. We would raise our children with values and morals with standards far greater than society gives us today. Friends if you are at a crossroads in your life or hanging on big decisions that would change your life - your family and children's lives - Ask yourself that simple question. Are you making these decisions for You - or for God. If you choose you - then this plan will surely fail and chalk it up as another bad decision in life with consequences down the road. BUT - if you are choosing do make these decisions for God and with His purpose and in His timing.... it might just prove to be the best decision in your life. It may change your life and the direction of your family. These big decisions - have you spoken to God about them - has He answered you and have you waited to hear from Him? His timing - not your own. Many folks don't have patience and live in the moment -emotions are the worst decision makers. Emotions and feeling change - up and down - good one minute/bad the next. They make horrible decisions when in the moment. Pray about things loved ones - let God guide those big moves - decision that can change the direction in your family - it just might be the best decision you have ever made. God wants to be part of those big things in your life. Make Him an equal part of it.

Acts 1:8
8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Don't ever give up on what God has placed on your heart - if your looking for direction and an answer - continue to pray about it - God will show you the way. Its all about Him and decisions are in His timing. Not ours........

love you all,
Randy~

Children May 18

31 days of prayer for our children~

Confidence

May You be our children's confidence Lord, and keep their feet from a snare.
(Proverbs 3:26)

SIngle Parent this week........

This post is for all you single mom and dads out there. This has been a great week - doing the daddy role for Kyle and taking care of the house - dogs - working - baseball practice and game tonight. BUT for how long can this keep up? I feel for you single parents out there. I still don't know how ya'll get it all done. No wonder most of ya look frazzled. I am glad its Friday tomorrow - the end of a long week - I think I will be taking a break from cereal for awhile. Hey I love cereal but enough already. Thank goodness we have friends here in Harrisburg to help out with things. My friends and neighbors - our church family - hey its been great. It was really awesome last night and we got practice cancelled early - and Kyle and I were walking over to the club house and I saw Lexi - then Julie - Grant the Peter - then Brian - Jimmy - Karen - hey THIS is COOL and I didn't feel alone. This is what church family does for ya - they are there for you when the chips are down and there is no place to turn or no place to find refuge. THANKS GANG!
I would say that unless your marriage is totally done for - there is no going back - make it work because this is hard stuff being a single parent. Makes me realize how much a team is needed to make a family run and a home run. Make God a part of your family - your marriage - make Him and equal part. Then go from there......
This has been an eye opening week for sure~

Love you all,
Randy

Children May 17

31 days of prayer for our children~

Courage

May our childen Lord be courageous. It is You who hoes with them. You will not leave them.
(Deuteronomy 31:6)

May 23rd church services @ R2C2

Ok gang, here is the deal ~ this is an official invite here. The church that Carol, Kyle and I are members at - www.rockyriverchurch.com - we are skipping our Sunday services on Memorial Day weekend. Also with the holiday and RACE traffic - its hard to get anywhere here in Harrisburg with the Coke-Cola 600 taking place. SO with that said, R2C2 has rented out the theater at Frank Liske Park - we also have all the shelters in that area rented. We are cooking hamburgers and hot dogs from 6:00-6:45 - FREE - then some great music lead by Brandon and the band and then a short message from Pastor Jimmy - then we are cutting watermelons.

Sound like a great deal - free food - outdoors - awesome band and a message to go along with it? Hey this is an official invite - so please let us know who and how many will be going with us. DEAL? Hey my birthday is the following day too - early present for me if you join us! :)

Randy~

Children May 16

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Integrity

Help us Lord, to teach our children that the one who lives with integrity lives securely
(Proverbs 10:9)

Birthday Wishes....

Many folks who know me - know today is my moms birthday. 1945-2006 - 62 she would have been today. I think about the birthday singing taking place right now in heaven. Mom it must sound pretty awesome and I know you are enjoying that worship time - I bet Elvis himself is standing with ya. You always loved hearing Elvis sing and God blessed him with a voice ahead of his time. Enjoy your day mom - we are all OK here. My promise is still valid and am trying my best to uphold those promises - even though they are hard and seem impossible at times. Thank you for passing on many great things to me - including your love and passion for good things. For making others a priority and to always press through when times are hard. Thank you for your smile, your brown eyes and giving heart. You were always happiest when everyone was around even though it was tough being around everyone - because there was so much wrapped up in those relationships and only of few of them were really real in the first place. You showed me how to put up with people - to accept them as they are and for doing things I have to do regardless if I want to or not. Mom you were pretty amazing - thank you for making my lunches, for laughing so hard we would pee our pants, for swimming with us in the summer, for caring and worrying all the years in Judo and praying we would not get hurt. Thank you for loving dad and sticking with the marriage even though at times it was pretty hard - thank you for leaving a family that sticks together even though right now it is hard to stick anything together without you. Thank you for the green thumb and the peace at night when I look up at the stars and wonder what you must be seeing. Thank you for waking me in the middle of the night, calling my name, from time to time. Thank you for checking in on us from time to time and when I hug Kyle at night - I tell him that his grandma loves him. If you were here mom, dad would come around more and take part in our lives and come and see Kyle's baseball games. He wouldn't let almost a year pass before getting in the car and driving down to see us and to see his grandson. He would be reaching out to others because you were the driving force in everything he did. I pray for him everyday - to come to peace with himself and find direction in life and even more important a purpose - a purpose in JESUS. Mom - I am doing my best with trying to pull him from his inward shell he is in. I think at times he is making progress but other times I question that progress. I know your body is on the side of that mountain but you are flying in the heavens Mom, dancing and singing like you always did on Sunday mornings. I hold my promises deep in my heart mom - I will always carry those responsibilities on my shoulders until the day I die. They are important because it is what holds everything together. It is worth fighting for and praying for. LOVE is the most important thing - something YOU MOM - had an abundance of. Something this family right now is in need of - God will get this families attention again because we have not learned from our past mistakes. Lord - please lead our family - come to us now and give each of us a purpose, a mission to serve each other and to help each other with our burdens and struggles. Life is not meant to go at it alone - we are in this together. It is the easier path to choose if we just put down our own agenda - our own selfishness and serve each other. Mom - thank you for everything -my grass stained paints and dirty socks, my bicycles when I was young and for taking us to the drive in to see Jaws. Remember that GIANT bag of popcorn dad got from Harry when he worked there? It took him months to eat all that popcorn. Those are good things to remember - things to reflect on and to hold dear. I remember you writing your name in the snow in Wyoming when we were out there - and Craig climbing on the railing next to the Grand Canyon. Bowling with you, dad, Mary and Tony -ya'll never made me feel like a 5th wheel.
I miss ya mom - but I know where you are and as I wipe my tears this morning- they are happy tears. Tears knowing that you took responsibility for your eternity and accepted Jesus sitting in front of Pastor Jimmy. He holds your salvation tissue so dear to his heart knowing that your story mom, will bring others to Jesus. You leave many things that are good and lasting. You leave many good things to remember and honor - I pray you look down from time to time on me Carol and Kyle. Cheer us on down here and help us keep our eyes on what is important - things that need to be addressed and taken care of. Help us keep our eyes on Jesus.... and bring peace, direction and forgiveness to our family through our Savior in Christ Jesus. Lord I don't see ANY progress being made these last few months - things seem to be worse now than before but I have to trust those seeds are planted and growing through Your hands and Your living water.
Forgive me where I am falling short Lord. "I PROMISE" is written everywhere I see and in the eyes of everyone in our family.
Happy birthday momma - I will be dropping roses off from Carol to the Sr. Citizens home this evening in your honor mom. Carol wanted to me send a little smile to someone today who needs it. Tears on my face this morning - but smiling at the same time. My heart is in the right place at least even though times like this really hurts.
I remember not long ago reading Psalm 100 with you~ smiling when I was done and you saying, "Praise God". I couldn't agree more.....
Love and miss you,
Forever your son - Randy

Psalm 100
A psalm. For giving thanks. 1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his [a] ; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Children May 15

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Purity

Create in our children Lord a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit within them
(Psalm 51:10)

Carol - Off to Phili

Hey just letting everyone know who doesn't know - The Boys are on their own!
Yup - Carol is headed out to Phili this evening for the week. Pray for safe travels - seeing old friends and for a great week in the City of Brotherly love. Pray for a great return trip this Friday - the boys will be holding down the fort. Cereal - sugar and all things we don't get to do under momma's watch will be happening. Yea right who am I kidding - we will be doing homework, lunches, laundry, working, walking the dogs, watering the garden, helping Friday at Kyle's school during lunch, baseball practice, baseball game on Thursday - whew - exhausted already....... is it Friday yet?
Not to worry..... just check in from time to time ok? If you call and we don't answer - hey we might be out catching frogs, jumping in the creek, riding Kyles motor cycle, or doing his 3rd grade math homework that takes 2 professors - mom and dad and a PH.D. student in Computer Science to figure out.......

Boys out~ Kyle and Daddy.......

Families........

I hope everyone had a great mothers day yesterday. Carol told me last night she had one of her best mother's days ever. That says allot..... especially when as a family - we did nothing that special. Some close friends came over after church - kids went swimming - cooked on the grill and just enjoyed each others company with 2 great families. I thought a few times leading up to this day that mom would give me a sign or wake me up in the middle of the night like she has done before - but there was a peace knowing she is OK and is happy on her mother's day spending it in heaven. I couldn't help but to feel extra for the folks I know who have lost their moms recently - maybe this is the first mother's day with out her - or maybe yesterday was a day that your mom is sick and this just might be the last mother's day with her. Regardless - many folks stayed away from others - stayed away from their families - not even simple phone calls or a card in the mail. I cannot begin to explain to you how much this hurts me.
Yesterday during church, Pastor Jimmy spoke towards the end about Kyle. How Pastor Jimmy was at our kids school eating lunch and he exchanged words with Kyle over lunch and when he was walking away - Kyle said to him - Hey Jimmy - I will see you Sunday and I look forward to 2 good services. I wish I was a fly on the wall then because I bet Jimmy had to check his hearing and the look on his face must have been priceless. Yes Carol and I are working hard to give him the best chances in life - to teach him the value of family and to teach him the value of church and our church families who are engaged in taking part of in our lives. A big important part I might add. But a few times yesterday - people said to us that we are the perfect marriage - we are a great family etc. Hey I am first to admit here folks - my family is just as dysfunctional as yours!!!
A few years ago before my mom got sick - things were not like the way they are now. HONEST. The lives you all see now is nothing what you would have seen just a few years ago. What changed was my mom passing away. There are 2 or 3 great moments in life that turn us and shape us more than at any other event or season that we live. Carol and I changed when my mom passed away - and Jesus entering it. We got to see the leader of our family pass on - with a tremendous battle - with grace and dignity - without complaining at all - and a smile on her face for Jesus as we sang and prayed with her. Life turned from that moment on because the year before, God was preparing me for this season - this big event that changed the direction of my life and Carol's life. We understand things differently now and see things differently now. I am that emotional cool dude that I said I never would be. I am that guy that has to hold back tears when all my life I remember dad telling us not to cry and be a man - suck it up. All things are different - and I care about people! You would never have convinced me a few years ago that Carol, Kyle and I would be leading a small group - with lots of people and children in our home every week! I was WAY too nervous for that and all my years, my thinking was the people were just out to get something or you would be hurt in the end so my guard was always up~ really never letting anyone get too close. That is just not the case anymore - Carol and I do have a great marriage - we work hard at it and we invest in it. We invest in each other and in our family - in our friends and in our church. We are motivated and honored to serve Jesus in the capacity that we are because it is a privilege to do so! There are many great rewards and many great things God is showing us - once we learned to trust Him. He is not even close to being done with us yet and we look forward to the future. We serve together as a family - we love together as a family and we love our friends together as a family. Sure there are struggles, tough decisions and disagreements - but we make it work because God is part of this family. He has equal share in what we do.
I just felt this on my heart today and I wanted to share with ya'll. Families are worth fighting for - they are worth struggling for and they are worth everything. Jimmy had great things to say about families yesterday. Even if we don't like everything about them and all the people in them - we show our kids that it's worth it and it matters.
My grandmothers got together with their families yesterday - on one side of the family we have issues that are beyond any reason. Why? I don't know - selfishness maybe - excuses being they can't deal with it. The other side they put their differences away and get together and mostly enjoyed yesterday. I wonder how many days like that there will be.... meaning once my grandmothers are gone - where is the glue? Who will step up and be the person to hold all this together? Will the families just seperate and head out to sea alone? ...
I look at my family right now with my mom gone - Yea yesterday was hard but it was OK because I know where mom is and one day I will be there also. But for those in our families who don't know Jesus - yesterday was probably especially hard. Maybe God needs to take hold of your family today. Maybe He needs to breath fresh air into the relationships that bind us by FAMILY. Maybe you're just tired of the same ol' story and hangups - maybe there is an unforgiven past that holds you back from reaching out to others - or even saying "I'm Sorry" - whatever it is - Jesus can help you from those situations. There are many dear friends around me today that are hurting - hurting because of a spouse leaving, or a marriage that is not working well right now, maybe a job loss or an addiction - maybe you have asked your spouse to leave and you're left with the baggage and the hurts - maybe you don't like being around your family because of all the past problems - I pray for you today! Because I hurt with you as well. God can do miracles - He can help with your hurts and hangups - just ask Him to get involved and see for yourself the changes that Carol and I experienced just a few years ago. It just might put you on a new direction and with a new purpose. Living for God changes everything. Our focus is taken off ourselves and placed onto others. Do for others before yourself....and watch the Holy Spirit take over you in a new and exciting way.

Randy~

Philippians 4:8
Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

Children May 14

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Seeking the Lord

May our children understand that You are good to those who wait for and seek You Lord
(Lamentations 3:15)

Children - May 13

31 Days of prayer for our children~

God's Protection

I praise You for You are faithful, You will strengthen and guard our children from evil
(2 Thessalonians 3:3)

Children May 12

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Peace

Thank You, Lord, that You are able to keep our children in perfect peace as their minds trust in You.
(Isaiah 26:3)

Moms are awesome....

I know its not yet Mothers day but I wanted to share something here today with everyone as this has been on my mind for a few days now. I may not get the time to post this coming Sunday because even though my mom is not here and Carol's mom is not here - there are mothers in my life and that day - is their day!
Mothers - What you do every day matters! It matters to your families that you lead them and show them what being a mother is all about. They will learn everything from you. Are you a compassionate person? Do you show everyone grace and love? Are you kind and loving to those around you? Do you live with passion? Are you gentle and listen to every detail?
Our children learn everything from you!
My son Kyle got up from the table we were eating at last night at our favorite place to eat to open the door for a woman pushing her husband in his wheelchair so that they could get in easier. He has compassion and such a big heart - he has learned that from his momma. He has her sense of humor and finds something funny in everything that he does. He is always smiling and always touching the lives of the people around him.
Our children learn the value of family - of eating supper together - of loving each other even during times that are hard. You are always teaching and showing your family that a mother's love is like no other.
I remember my moms smile and her soft brown eyes. I remember her belly laugh when my brother did something funny. I cherish the time my mom and my little brother were at the hospital when my dad had his heart attack - we slept on the floors - ate the hospital food - never once complained about anything - I remember hiding out in the little soda machine room on the floor laughing like there was nothing on earth that was funnier. I remember my mom being able to float on her back in the pool and listening to Elvis over and over again. I remember the love my mom had for Jesus and for going to church - but rebellion kept her from living out that dream and those wishes until God used her to bring me to Him. God used her so that I would come to Jesus - and I am the one that took part in bringing her to Jesus. Irony there but part of the perfect plan Jesus had all worked out in detail long ago. It is why I pray and hurt so much for my family, friends and the people close to me. God has changed my life and has shown me so much through my mom and the experience of her passing, knowing she is in heaven today and knowing I will again - get to see those eyes, hear that laugh and again - get a mothers hug that no child should be without. I look at my son - and see the things of my wife in him - I see my mom in him.
My mom kept many things from my brother and I - keeping us at a safe distance from the trials in life. There are many things I know now - that I would have never known if mom did not have to leave. My dad is left a broken man now and my heart hurts for him so much as he searches for things of this world. For truth, justice and fairness - direction and purpose. Those are things that only Jesus can provide and I pray everyday that he finds Him somehow in the pit that he is in. Many of us are still hurting from the loss of my mom and Carol's mom because they were the center of our families. They meant so much to so many people. We are all hurting but some of us, think that people don't understand. That they are the only ones hurting today. I pray for those feelings and hurts to change because we are all hurting. I lost my mom - Carol lost her mom - Kyle lost his grandma - My aunt Sharon lost her sister and best friend... Life is for the living and God can move people through the storms in life but it requires faith - it requires trust.
Mothers do the things they do out of love - and its that love that passes down through the generations and that love sets up the miracles in life. If it were not for my mom - I would not know Jesus today. If I did not know Jesus - I don't know if I would have been able to handle the loss of my mom and to experience death first hand like I did not long ago.
I want to say Thank You to the Mothers out there - first hand - because what you do everyday means so much not only today but for years down the road. God used my mom to shape my life today ~ Mothers - God is using YOU today to shape the lives of your children today.
Pray for your children - love them and show them what being a mother is all about. It makes all the difference in the world. God is using you for the miracles later on.
Carol I love you ~ for the compassion your mother gave you and for putting up with me! You are setting Kyle up for some amazing things in this life - Your mother would be so proud of you and so proud of Kyle and who he is today. He is just like you and I am forever blessed, grateful and thankful.
The story in the bible of the little boy who had his lunch packed when Jesus fed the 5000 people with fish and bread. What an amazing story - where do you think he got his lunch from?

His mom........

John 6
John 6
Jesus Feeds Five Thousand
1 After this, Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick. 3 Then Jesus climbed a hill and sat down with his disciples around him. 4 (It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration.) 5 Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. Turning to Philip, he asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” 6 He was testing Philip, for he already knew what he was going to do.
7 Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money[a] to feed them!”
8 Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. 9 “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”
10 “Tell everyone to sit down,” Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone numbered about 5,000.) 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. 12 After everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, “Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves.
14 When the people saw him[b] do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”[c] 15 When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.

Proof in the Testimony

I recently posted my comments about the debate that took place on ABC between the 2 atheist's and the 2 Christians. I wanted to again voice something because the differences between the two groups of folks were so far apart. You can reread those comments if you wish or you can continue reading here - your choice. But what really got my interest up was the fact that the 2 Christians were going to prove their point, without faith but based on science and fact, that there is a God. I thought to myself that this just won't work and faith is required to prove that there is a God. I knew that the debate between the 2 parties could/might be a good thing because it brings people together and they discuss the points in detail but not when science is the focus. Data/science can be manipulated to prove anything! When speaking to someone about faith and to people who have such "Pride" - meaning that they are going to do whatever to prove they are right and thus WIN the debate - the other party has already lost. I think the 2 Christians on the show were on target in many ways because they spoke the Truth with compassion and love - extended that through their words to the 2 atheist's. That is what Christians are supposed to do - to love people regardless of what they believe or what they have done. No judgement - but it is hard - especially when being attacked.
You can't tell me there is no God because I have seen so much the last few years with my mom passing away, the things God has brought me through in my life, healing me and people around me - faith is required to know there is a God. I believe it is the Holy Spirit that convicts a man of sin, not us. We are merely the "vessel." I believe there is a time for healthy debates, but that at some point, we need to be sensitive to allow the Holy Spirit to penetrate the Truth into their heart and back off with arguments. Case and point being the discussion a few weeks back with someone close to me. There was heated conversation and ill feelings afterwards - and that did not do either of us any good -especially with the last words being- I hope the Mets lose! I want to have those conversation with him and I want to have healthy discussions about God and His word in the bible again - but when people are so hard hearted - no belief what so ever - nothing that I say will change that. It is what it is. To accept Jesus in your heart as your Lord and Savior, will require faith on your part. Only then will you be able to see God - experience God - and live the changed life that He has placed on you. I think there comes a time that we must just love these folks - let the holy spirit work through us and let God handle the situations.... these arguments and discussions when done right and in the right context - will prove valuable.... if handled correctly and with grace, love and respect. God lets us chose to accept Him or not - I challenge you to study both sides of the discussion. If you don't believe in God - read the Bible (New Testemant) and see for yourself. Then make your decision - don't rely on the discovery channel for all your data and facts.
I heard not long ago that My God didn't hear all the prayers when something that someone needed wasn't delivered or it didn't happen. Faith just might have been required on that persons part in order for it to happen. Why would God answer you if you don't believe in Him?
Need proof there is a God - accept Him - and then see for yourself. Then lets debate over our God... and compare testimonies. NOW that would be something to discuss........
Randy~

Children May 11

31 Days of prayer for our children

Generosity

Instruct our children Lord to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, and to be willing to share.
(1 Timothy 6:18)

Keep Singing ~ MercyMe

Thank you Mercy Me - for this song. Got a chance to listen to it today and have played it multiple times - Awesome! I think many folks are feeling this way today. Can't seem to find their way out or see anything past the direct future of today. What does tomorrow bring? Pain and disappointment - anger and lost all wrapped up into one.
Just remember that no matter the situation you are facing, Jesus has been in those shoes. He will provide and He will show you the way. Leave your burdons and worries with Him - He will deliver you from everything that has you dragged down today.

Ephesians 3:20
20-21God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Mercy Me - "Keep Singing"
Another rainy day
I can't recall having sunshine on my face
All I feel is pain
All I wanna do is walk out of this place
But when I am stuck and I can't move
When I don't know what I should do
When I wonder if I'll ever make it through
I gotta keep singing
I gotta keep praising Your name
Your the one that's keeping my heart beating
I gotta keep singing
I gotta keep praising Your name
That's the only way that I'll find healing
Can I climb up in Your lap
I don't wanna leave
Jesus sing over me
I gotta keep singing
Oh You're everything I need
And I gotta keep singing

I pray for that person(s) today who is hurting - who is lost- who doesn't see a way out of where they are today - for that person who has lost all their joy in life and all their purpose. Maybe that purpose and joy was with someone else - someone who has left because of divorse or passing away - I pray for that fire, focus and vigor to come back - a new perspective that God loves you and cares for you. I pray for the hearts that come to Him - asking for forgiveness and grace, it's ONLY through Jesus will we find what this world does not offer ~ "PEACE" ~
Randy~

Children May 10

31 Days of prayer for our children

Compassion

May our children understand that You Lord, are good to everyone; Your compassion rests on all You have made
(Psalm 145:9)

Thoughts on ABC debate if there is a God or not...

http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=3130360&page=1

Judge for yourself.

Why is it that the crowd laughs and claps at the comments made by the atheists? Why do the atheists want to go back to who made God? Who made the universe? What we really know of God is what is written in the Bible. Those are Gods words handed down to countless people over years and years. Jesus came and showed us how we should live and love each other - to respect each other and more importantly, He showed us that death has no hold on us if we put our faith and trust in Him. He died - we hung Him there and we killed Him because of our sins and selfish ways. Afraid to have our way of life taken from us, many chose, even then while Jesus performed miracles and spoke in ways nobody has ever heard of before - still they chose to not believe him. Jesus was killed, 3 days later by over 511 people - in groups and in personal settings - Jesus appeared, ate, drank, spoke, people felt his wounds and scars. He came so we can understand God more and have a personal relationship with Him. How we get there is our own story and each is different. If we cannot understand the Bible and the teaching it gives us - how can we up the comprehension to understand the creation of the universe? How God came about - even though He tells us He is the beginning and the end. Our sense of everything on this earth is capsuled in time. It gives us a reference of a beginning and an end. God has no end - He doesn't see us when we die as it being over - its just another step in His creation, plan and purpose. When we see things through the eyes of God and what is expected of us as a people - the world would be a different place ~ God has given us the choice to follow or not - to accept Him or not. I have put my heart and trust with Him - if it turns out I was wrong - which I don't truly think I am - then I have lived an awesome and blessed life leaving a legacy of good, a legacy of love behind for my family and friends and all who have known me. I think even that is better than living for myself, filling my belly of food as my brothers go hungry, and staying in my selfish ways of always doing what makes me happy - hoarding the things I can't take with me and next years garage sale items.
I would never make a good debater - I am not good at arguments.... We are on a small planet in a universe that we have no possible way to comprehend it all nor will we understand how big it is and all the integral parts of it - a spec of pepper in a large pepper shaker. I'll take my chances on God. His plan for my life is way better than anything I have come up with. How about you? What plan do you have?
We are all getting out of here one day..... put that decision off another day or put a plan into action........
Randy

The choice is yours...

Wow what a day yesterday! Went up to my grandmothers - worked in the greenhouse for the day - that's hard work (don't believe me - come next year for the day - you'll appreciate your job when you get home!) Got to see most of my aunts and my uncle Lee. Its a time of year that I very much look forward to because it's my time to be with my family, everyone looks forward to spending the day working in the family business and we have fun, get some work done, and laugh while doing so. Who knows how much longer we will get to do this together... But I am enjoying the season that God has us in right now. I love being around my Aunts because they are so family oriented and they love and reach out to everyone. No matter how bad we are hurting or struggling with something - they just keep on keeping on. This is something God wants us to do - to keep in the game- to engage others and be a part of the lives we all share together. We are not made to be islands and even though some of us are really hurting and struggling right now with hurtful and painful things, we have to stay engaged so that we don't drift further down the road away from the people who love us and want to encourage us. Not only that but to pray for each other - how can we have relationships with people if one of them doesn't respond or have much to do with the everyone else? We are only in Gods seasons for a time - we are in these seasons until we are ready to move on from them and many times God puts those seasons in place for us/He puts them in place for when we are ready to move on.
Romans 14:19
19-21So let's agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words; don't drag them down by finding fault.

Many of us are in marriages that the season for you is to invest now in that marriage - its been neglected too long - many of us are in a season now that the relationship your in is going good and its time to enjoy it! Many are mourning the loss of a loved one, you're in a season of a new job or better employment - a season of health issues and God is bringing you through that season. There is a season to live, to be born and to die. Fall/Spring/Winter and fall - Everything on earth has a season and God has made it this way so that we can move on from the things that keep us where we are. So stay engaged friends, stay humble in your hearts - encourage each other and above all else ~ Love each other. Raise the expectations on yourself before you expect too much of others. I think there are many areas in the relationships in my own family that needs to be reminded of this and I am sure yours does also. If we are to change anything in this life - we have to start with ourselves. We can't change others - if we try it will be a lifetime of hurt and painful disappointments.
God placed within us a need for “stick-with-it” commitments; his commitment to us is unbreakable, and He wants to see us extend the same commitment to each other (2 Corinthians 8:5). But this kind of commitment takes time – something that has become far too scarce in our lives today ~ that, my friend, is a choice). We often choose the easy road and walk away.
Do you think God ever looks at us – and sighs, “Why can’t my children just get along?’”
What are you choosing today? Don't let your bleeping pride get in the way of the people in your life - you won't make it alone for long. Ask God to keep your pride out of your life - after all Our King washed the feet of others. We can extend that same courtesy to others as well.
Randy~

Children May 9

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Humility

May our children learn that the result of humility is fear of You along with wealth, honor, and life.
(Porverbs 22:4)

Children May 8

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Wisdom

When our children lack wisdom Lord, help them understand that they should ask You. You give to all generously and without criticizing.
(James 1:5)

Psalm 57 7-11

I am excited about tomorrow EARLY - Road Trip. Nothing like an early start - coffee - some singing to the Lord - as bad as it may be to my ears ... I know Jesus appreciates it. A quick stop to pay respect to moms grave and then some flower power. Looking forward to some thinking time while riding up and down the road.
Peace......

⁷ My heart is steadfast, O God,
my heart is steadfast;
I will sing and make music.

⁸ Awake, my soul!
Awake, harp and lyre!
I will awaken the dawn.

⁹ I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations;
I will sing of you among the peoples.

¹⁰ For great is your love, reaching to the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

¹¹ Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
let your glory be over all the earth.

The circle of Friends.....

I did something interesting last night with our rock group. I shared with everyone the passion I have for lost people. How I too was lost not long ago and how much it really bothers me that people refuse to change the direction in their life - to listen to what I am trying my best to tell folks. It has left me frustrated at times, questioning why I am caring so much, it has left me isolated from the folks I love. But, I have taken an oath - like all Christians who have accepted Jesus - to take the Good News to the people in our lives. To help them accept Jesus, share His love for them, to attend church and become connected so that their lives will have meaning and purpose. That is why I stay the course and continue to battle everyday not only with myself but also with the very people I love.
I shared with everyone last night that I have 3 people in my family (not including my wife and son) that I can truly pray with. Meaningful prayer together and talk about church and Jesus - how life changing it is. I get excited when these conversations take place and we share with each other what God is doing in our lives. I am not alone ~ almost everyone there had just a small number of family that they too can pray with. I really thought for some reason I was out there - alone in this walk - especially living here in the bible belt of America!

Then this morning - the light bulb went off.
Romans 12:16
14-16Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.

Most church folks surround themselves with other church folks. They lose contact with the lost people in their lives. Yes we are to have meaningful relationships with other Christians but not entirely one sided. The Apostle Paul encourages us to find common ground with non-believers: “I do this to get the Gospel to them and also for the blessing I myself receive when I see them come to Christ.” (1 Cor. 9:21-23) Finding common ground is an act of friendship; it guides us to look for the positive instead of the negative in those outside the faith. Jesus looked at the Samaritan woman and told her of the things He knew - He pointed out the things they have in common and not the things that were wrong and sinful. She became a friend to Jesus - thus bringing Him all her friends and family.
I know I belong to Jesus - I am His - I value the people in my life and the people I meet. I may not agree with the life style, decisions or back grounds but we must love all people - regardless and look for those teachable moments.

I continue to pray for the lost folks in my life - I continue to pray for the family and friends that walk with me on my journey with Jesus. I guess this is why when I am at church these days - I try to look at things through the eyes of the non-believer - so I can take action and give them no excuses to walk out and not come back. Its that important ~ Eternity is at stake here and this world is full of lost people. Its easy to blend into the crowd, to go with the flow. It's hard as bleep sometimes to take a stand for what is right - for what burns in your heart even if that means you would be on the outside. But then again, I am on the inside~ Inside the loving arms of our heavenly Father.
So we can go with the flow, put off your decision to follow Jesus now, and then suffer in eternity. -OR - Pay the price now and suffer a little in this life, the next one will be glorious! Wouldn't have it any other way. What circle are you in?

Randy~

Children - May 7

31 Days of prayer for our children~

Passion for the Lord

May our children long for You Lord, just as a deer longs for streams of water.
(Psalm42:1)

Children May 6

31 days of Prayer for our children.

Thankfulness

Let our children give thanks to You, Lord, for your faithful love and wonderful works.
(Psalm 107:8)

Children May 5

31 days of prayer

Patience

Help our children Lord understand that we have hope for what we do not see and can eagerly wait with patience.
(Romans 8:25)

Church band on campus....

Well we had a church band play our staff picnic here on campus today. Too bad it was cold and raining - we had it inside - not enough room for everyone but the band had a place to play on stage. That's pretty cool and they played some good rock and roll - then some church tunes - it was neat looking at the folks enjoying the music and some time smiling out of the office!
Anyways - we through out tons of Frisbees... hope to see some new faces this Sunday. You never know how the Lord will move someone so we all have to be ready at any moment.
Missed my kids today! :( Hope to see them next week sometime.
Enjoy your Friday.

Randy~

Children May 4

31 Days of prayer for our children~

May 4-

JOY
I pray that You will make our children rejoice because of the works of Your hands.
(Psalm 92:4)

"Saving a Life"

As many of you know I have been somewhat distant the last few months from my family. I am not sure exactly why - it's not like I am avoiding anyone and the phone, email and roads work in both directions. But maybe it has something to do with people who don't want to change - don't want to change anything for the better or the current direction of their lives. Maybe it is more of my eyes being opened and my life changing more than theirs are. I know we just don't see many things on the same page and in the same way anymore. I know my mom is in heaven and in many ways, it was her time and God's way for my family to take notice - God is trying to get our attention here!!! but many refuse and continue walking the paths they walk on and many continue to be in that same pit of despair they found themselves in before mom got sick. So as those occasions come and go - I say my peace - take a stand for Jesus and do my best to love the people around me and to encourage them to come to Jesus, there has to be a point where the word of God is not ripe for the harvest for them. More pain and suffering must take place and the word of God must move on to greener pastures. I cannot badger you with godly talk and living by examples when people are not ready for it.
2 Timothy 4
3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

But- then again I am torn from walking away because isn't a soul worth fighting for? Isn't a loved one worth the effort to love them, encourage them and to share God's love for them? How can I walk away? If I walk away, what example do I set if all they see is me walking away and being distant? They don't know they are not ripe for Gods word. They don't know or even care that God loves them and there is a way out of the struggle - that they do have hope and there is more to where they find themselves today. Maybe I can't do this all myself - maybe as a team with 3-4 people around me all on the same page working and serving together - we can make a difference. Maybe we can get a loved one to see Jesus and all He has for them. Maybe there is a Divine appointment in the making and we just don't see it. As I pray my heart out for those in my life who need Jesus - maybe it's your turn to join me - to put ACTION behind your words and prayers. Maybe together we can strengthen each other and put Gods heavenly forces behind what we are doing...... giving up is just not in my blood. Sometimes to be a man we have to stand for what is right and not sit back and let things go, to let things slide - today - the next minute might be the start of eternity for someone close to us. Is it worth that risk not to do our part when their lives and eternity is at stake?
Mark 2 tells a story of a GROUP of friends taking their friend to Jesus. No way to get him to Jesus - roads blocked - thousands of people all around. They had to carry their friend because he could not walk. Never has he been able to walk - they decided to hoist him onto the roof in the building Jesus was in. They cut through and tore the roof off the building and lowered their friend to Jesus. Jesus saved him, forgave his sins because of his faith and his friends efforts. It was worth it to work as a team because if they left him alone - it would not have happened. Don't you feel the same way for the friends and loved ones in your life? When I come to church and serve on those early Sunday mornings - I can't help but to think that today is the day God changes a life - I want everything perfect - I don't want any excuses for anyone to walk out and turn their back on the message and the living water of Gods grace and love.
Read the story:

Mark 2
A Paraplegic 1-5 After a few days, Jesus returned to Capernaum, and word got around that he was back home. A crowd gathered, jamming the entrance so no one could get in or out. He was teaching the Word. They brought a paraplegic to him, carried by four men. When they weren't able to get in because of the crowd, they removed part of the roof and lowered the paraplegic on his stretcher. Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said to the paraplegic, "Son, I forgive your sins."
6-7Some religion scholars sitting there started whispering among themselves, "He can't talk that way! That's blasphemy! God and only God can forgive sins."
8-12Jesus knew right away what they were thinking, and said, "Why are you so skeptical? Which is simpler: to say to the paraplegic, 'I forgive your sins,' or say, 'Get up, take your stretcher, and start walking'? Well, just so it's clear that I'm the Son of Man and authorized to do either, or both . . ." (he looked now at the paraplegic), "Get up. Pick up your stretcher and go home." And the man did it—got up, grabbed his stretcher, and walked out, with everyone there watching him. They rubbed their eyes, incredulous—and then praised God, saying, "We've never seen anything like this!"

Friends - email me..... call me..... it just is not sitting on my heart right and I have to do something. I want to do something for a GREAT God - not do something great for God. Imagine all the effort, pain and suffering - until just that day comes and the people in our lives who have rejected God and His love - accepts Him into their lives and hearts. It will have been worth all the effort imaginable. "Saving a life" - I hear many folks who are police officers - fireman and average Joe's who saved someone from a fire, a car wreck or whatever - they are on David Letterman - we can feel the same rush they do...... except its even better and more important.

Love you all and may God put a fire in your heart like He has mine ~ It will change everything.
Randy~

Children May 3

31 days of prayer for our children~

Love of God's word

Help our children Lord remember that peace belongs to those who love Your instruction.
(Psalm 119:165)

You have to check this car out...

A just got off the phone with a good friend of mine who I have not spoken to in a while... it was so good to hear her voice! She was telling me of this new car coming to america - its pretty wild and pretty tini - but hey what else do we really need most of the time but to get us to work and back... and to do it cheaply right?
Will be cool to hear the critics and the gas companies complain about this car. Gas companies - stick it to 'em.
http://www.smartusa.com/index.html

:)

A little something to think about

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
Helen Keller

Discouragement....

I have to say that discouragement is an easy place to fall into but a hard place to remove yourself from. Many folks tell me that I am full of encouragement. Many times in reality I am not. But I do try my best to project a "Can do" attitude and nothing is impossible because I have seen it many times when things just are not working out or when the road has ended - God shows up and makes something from nothing. Discouragement sometimes is the way "WE" see things.
When you become discouraged – Stop and ask God, “Am I seeing this situation through your eyes, or my own?” “Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ – that's where the action is. See things from His perspective.”

It's so easy to fall into the trap and many times all we need is a new perspective, a new way to look at things and a new set of eyes. Friends, we are where we are for a reason and there is something to learn from all this right now that we are going through. God will see you through this trial and He will teach you what He wants you to learn. Focus on the picture with news eyes, a new vision and remember the teachable moments - not only your teachable moments but also those moments your in for others to see and learn. God has a plan for all things and never are you outside the parameters of those plans. Trust in Him and He will walk with you like a brother.
If you need encouragement - email me or give me a call. I am a good listener and willing to pray with you and lift your name to our Father in heaven.
Look up and change that attitude! God will say when its over~
Keep your eyes on Jesus and not your circumstances.
With love,
Randy~

Children May 2

31 Days of Prayer for our children~

May 2- HOPE

I pray that You, the God of hope, will fill our children with all joy and peace as they trust in You.
(Romans 15:13)

Faith and Deeds

I was scanning the website biblegateway.com this evening looking for something that would stand out with me on how I am feeling these days. See I want to serve Jesus and our church. Many doors have opened since I have taken the steps to do so. Not long ago I too was the one who went to church once in awhile and when someone from the church called to ask me to serve doing something - anything - I had better plans and backed out. I never thought much about it or how important it was until recently. See God wants to use us - not just come to church and share within the walls - He wants us out sharing His word and making a difference in the world. As I have been taking notice the last few months with things at church and how things are setup - I see the excuses I used to use to not go - to not come back. I needed anything - small or big it didn't matter - one excuse is as good as another. So now when I look around our church during setup or the sound guys are working out the last touches and the band is warming up - I want to feel the energy and the excitement that God will make a difference to someone that day! I want to serve to the point where nobody has an excuse and walk out - everything the way each person needs and if that means cleaning the schools toilets and washing the bathroom floors to greeting people who are scared and help ease their fears. Guess what - I will do it because God is worth that effort ~ Lost people are worth that effort.
My son Kyle has a big heart and he recently made a card for the owner of our favorite place to eat - he drew all kinds of pictures and nice things to say on it - he gave that to her last week and it just made her cry she was so happy. Its hanging up now for all to see and it really did make her day - as did his momma and daddy. We got in the car and he looked over at me and said "Daddy, I like to make people happy - did you see how happy she was?" - We all should put ourselves into action and make a difference in some one's life. Sometimes the smallest of things, makes the biggest differences.
I pray I am able to lead at church - to serve before leading and to always be humble - to never ask something of someone that I would not do myself. God can handle the rest of my nerves and my worries. I am in good hands....... where are you today and are you making a difference in someones life?
If not put action behind your faith and get moving......

James 2:14-25

Faith and Deeds

14What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. 16If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? 17In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

18But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds."
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.

19You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.

20You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless^[d]? 21Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,"^[e] and he was called God's friend. 24You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.

25In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

Children - May 1

What a busy day today - and thankful. Its May 1st in case anyone else can't believe it. Where is time flying? Since its the beginning of the month - I am going to do something a little different for each day this month. God placed this on my heart last week and I have been waiting to get started. Yea - its hard to wait!
Since my kids at Kyles school have made such a BIG difference in my life this year. They all are so special and dear to me - they have opened my eyes to so many things that I would not have experienced at all if God had not placed them in my life. Also the children in my Rock Group are so awesome - all the way from my newest and littlest addition being just 1 year old to my oldest who are teenagers.
I am going to add a blog entry every day this month just for our children. Mine and yours ... because the children were so dear to Jesus. If we could all just have faith like they do.
So with that being said ~ 31 days of prayer:

May 1- Faith - Help our children Lord learn that faith is the reality of what is hoped for and the proof of what is not see. (Hebrews 11:1)