Reflect back and Look Forward

As 2008 comes to a close - I can honetly say this year has had its ups and downs for my family. THANK GOD for those peaks. Those peaks build us and strengthen our faith. Our trust grows as we look back and reflect on what we have had to go through. The secret is, we went through them and God has not left us in them. God is faithful and 2009 should be met with great expectations to what the God of our universe will do through us this coming year.

Keep on Keeping on loved ones. They say time heals - I have to say that time lessons the pain as many things never go away. We grow through them and learn from them. We should become better people, more caring, fuller of compassion and our faith grows like never before.
I can honestly say that this 2008 is finishing strong. I am excited to what is ahead, what God will be teaching me and leading me to do FOR HIM!

Hebrews 12:1
Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us . . .

It is easy these days to have a baby, get married, start a new job, be a friend to someone that really needs a friend, a new years diet - there are so many things that are easy to start but often times they are hard to finish. Our walk with Jesus is no different. Stay strong this year loved ones, stand for God and be His hands and actions. Reach those around you with compassion, love and forgiveness as Jesus has shown you by example these very things.

May 2009 be the year that your life makes a difference, has an impact and really shows others that You Love Jesus. Love leaves a lasting mark and a lasting impression.

Gods Best for 2009,
Lonnie~

Cold day here in Penn - but for a local this is HOT. Hey this is a nice change a pace. Tomorrow will be below zero and with the chance of a little snow. Nothing big this time up ... but thats ok since we are traveling home on New Years day. Had some good coffee this morning after a good nights rest - even with the wind blowing 40mph and our window open :)
Today we made a run into town and got some wraps at McDonalds - Walmart run to get stuff to make for supper tonight - a family favorite - then to Childs State Park to check out the waterfalls and do a little hiking. It was a nice day even though us southern folks are cold.

Cell coverage is not that good so I am a little unplugged from things. Thats is ok sometimes but thankful for an Internet connection.
For all my prayer warriors out there - please put Emily Grace Shropshire on your list. She is a daughter of some friends of ours at church - Mark and Lisa. They were on vacation at the beach when Emily got sick. They took her to Wilmington where after surgery - they removed some cysts. She is doing much better and should be able to go home in a few days. Continued prayers for Mark, Lisa and little Emily Grace.

I have some work to do for Rock Group this coming Sunday - so I will be spending some time in prayer and in study to get ready for our upcoming January series. Should be a great series to learn from. Kaleo - is a Greek word that means - to this you were called and we will be studying 4 things for which God has called us to do ... Compassion, Community, Service and Evangelism. I am really looking forward to it......

Happy New Years eve tomorrow - the temps in NYC tomorrow night will be COLD....

Lonnie~

What a Sunday ~

I want to thank those who asked about my brother Danny over the last few days. He should be home today if not already. The doctors were able to open his artery with a stint in good fashion. Funny side of the story - Christmas evening his son asked him to take him down to Hooters in Winston for some wings. Danny not feeling good at all - decided to go. While their food was being served - he had big chest pains. Not far from Hooters was Forsyth Medical Center which is known for its heart care. Funny how God puts things into motion~

Enjoyed an evening last night with some good friends. After some finger food and listening to lots of music into the evening - it was decided that we would all go to church this morning. It was awesome having these families with us today - even though Carol and I were both in Sunday school - we got their kids as they listened to the Word of God through Pastor Jimmy. I look forward to hearing the message this coming week through my Ipod. Anyways - it was a sad day in one way as many were leaving with tears. Brandon and April will be moving to a different church - Brandon has accepted a position at a much larger church in Huntersville and will be their worship pastor. Brandon ~ April - it has been such pleasure serving God and our community together. I will miss you both and love you dearly. Keep that light shining!!!

Rock group tonight - looking forward to it. I am packed and ready for Penn - leaving early in the morning! Will post as the week goes on. Love to everyone~
Lonnie

Merry Christmas~

I just wanted to tell everyone Merry Christmas. So much is wrapped into today these days. As I look back as a kid - I can remember the excitement building all the way from Thanksgiving unto today - waking early and getting my parents out of bed - getting everything unwrapped under the tree - playing for hours - being crabby for not enough sleep and too much excitement - then an early crash for bed.
As an adult - I can see this holiday season much different. A few years ago, I really felt the holiday season right after Thanksgiving. With black friday - the shopping days numbered - the stock market up and down according to how much folks spent. Man it is just nuts. It has turned into a season all wrapped into one day. All that has changed as I have been following Jesus. Its a season and not so much a single day. It is the build up of blessing others, it is the smile in the shopping malls that make a difference, it is doing without so that someone around you can have - it is more than just a day. Yes Jesus, we celebrate this day in history - but it is more of living your live for Jesus than anything else. The gifts we share should come from the heart - not out of obligation, or out of guilt or anything other than love for that person. If sharing a gift this year does not reflect the love you have for that person and for the love of Jesus Christ - then you might as well just save your money because your heart is not in the right place.
Carol, Kyle and I spent Christmas almost alone this year. Except for a loving close family that came towards the end of the day - it was kind of different. Yes it was cool to spend the day with family - but so much has changed over the past few years. With Walt being gone and my mom gone just 3 years ago - it was for sure different. I got to talk with Katie today and yes she too feels the difference with her mom gone and this being her first Christmas without her mom.
A true gift is sharing with others the time we often times feel short on. I would give an arm to spend a few hours with my mom, Walt, MaryLou or Denise today - it is a reason why I tell I love you so much and you may wonder why I say such things all the time. Life is short and we never know when our story will unfold.
I had a mom thank me last night for being a Sunday school teacher and being such a good role model for her child..... it is an awesome thing for a parent to share that.

Merry Christmas everyone - may your Christmas be more than just a day. May it be a lifestory in your life that reflects so much more about you..... giving is something that God modeled for us and has given us such a perfect example in His son Jesus.
With love and a giving heart,
Lonnie~

Busy day today - Kyle and I cut down a few trees and split some firewood. It is feeling nice in here tonight. It is 38 out and could be cold enough for some snow - our walk with the dogs later should be nice. Not as nice as last night because the sky was clear and the stars where out. I just love those walks at night when the stars are so full - it is amazing how many there are and how many we can't see at home. I always talk extra with my mom when I am here - especially when the stars are out. I had a few moments to pray a little extra prayer for some of "MyKids" - some of them are facing some tough things and I am honored to lift them in prayer during this time.

This story in Charlotte is hitting big time news. It is an awesome story and just reminds us that we are not alone - that heaven is real and that the things God has shared with us in his Word - the Bible - is real and is alive today.
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/597/story/431132.html

Enjoy the story ...

Carol has supper on ... we got a fire going and all is well...... Really looking forward to church tomorrow night as I am reminded that some families are having a tough time right now. Some are going through their 1sts - this Christmas without someone. Some are happy for the first time in years because of some one. Some are hoping the electric is not shut off and some are hoping for Christmas to show up in a big way ........ some are making that happen! :)

talk tomorrow .....
Lonnie~

Monday - a different Monday~

I am not at work! That is different and it will take me a few days to get used to the fact that I am off work until Jan 5th - and a new year! Unplugging is something different ~
Had a good day with my dad and my family in Mt. Airy yesterday. We had our family Christmas and even though it is SOOOO different than years past - God tells us to look through the windshield of life and not live our lives through the rear view mirror. I got a chance to address the family yesterday and to me- that is such a huge responsibility. I have never been in that role but I guess mom knew better and knew what was ahead. I had some things to say but only got a few things out - we were all hungry... and I could tell my sugar was low... so I cut things short. I really wished I stuck it out though~

Last night we got to watch the Panthers lose to the Giants with some great - AWESOME - people. You know who you are - and there is nothing I would change about last night spending time with you all - except the Loss!!!!

We are at the cabin for a few days. I can honestly say Kyle is bored for the first time here in the woods... I guess this might be the last time we come with just Kyle and us ... WOOHOOO!!! I am all about investing in others...... if you know me - you know what I am talking about!
I am looking forward to a few days of down time - Christmas Eve services at church as many of "MyKids" will be there.... that is exciting - I miss everyone! Our rock group families have not got together in a few weeks and I look forward to hanging with everyone on the 28th...

Well - I am out of here...... Will post as time and events allow~
Lonnie~

Salvation Army - Distribution Experience

I say experience because it is an experience! I called my friend Shelley before I got down there and told her I was on my way. She was very excited and told me to enter the "old walmart" through the optometry entrance. When I pulled into the parking lot - I just could not believe how many people where there. They had the front entrances blocked off so folks could not drive right up to the front doors - it also keeps people safer at the main entrance.
I walked in and was met by Shelley's friend Dee. She walked me around and gave me the process of how things worked. People were sitting in a section that had chairs all lined up and they waited for their # to be called since everyone has an appointment. Once called they are met by a Salvation Army Volunteer - during this shift of 8:30-12:30 there are over 100 folks volunteering- and they have a shopping cart. Here is where they meet the families. Everyone is very excited. I got to walk with Lionel. He was alone and his wife and 2 kids were home excited for him to come back with their Christmas gifts. They have a 4 year old and a 2 week old. Once through the line they can spin for a bike if they did not receive one. The excitement level was that of like an auction. Lots of happy faces, screams of excitement and shouts of "I Won" - it was amazing to watch. Even the volunteers were very excited when someone won a bike. Once around this part of the line - Lionels # was called and a volunteer brought over the family gift bag with all the gifts. It was placed in the shopping cart and we moved along to the stocking area. Every child through the Salvation Army will receive a stocking full of stuff - regardless if they got something or not. Lionel was about in tears and I asked him if they would have gifts this Christmas if it was not for the donations and the Salvation Army. He said, "Probably not". I shook his hand and out the door he went. Shopping cart delivered to the next family in waiting.
It was an unreal experience watching the folks come through. 200 an hour for 4 days - all walks of life - all kinds of people but all in the same need. I am thankful for the experience and its so humbling all wrapped into one.
I am so content with what God has given me, the blessings he is given us and the heart that he has given me to serve others. It really hits home why Carol and I do not share Christmas gifts anymore - we adopt a family who could use a little encouragement or a little help. We pack that box with all kinds of things..... each of its own importance. It really is special to us~
I have really been seeing people differently the last few months especially. God is opening many doors ........ and thankful for the opportunities that are behind each of them.

Shelley - thank you for the opportunity this year to serve the Salvation Army - the people coming through your doors and for changing many things in my life because of the experience. You are still smiling even today ....no wonder - You are doing Gods work and it shows on your face. Love you and proud of you~ Merry Christmas to you and your family. Get some rest and know you are making such an impact in the hearts of many!

Lonnie~

I will be leaving here shortly to head down to the Salvation Army Christmas Center. I am really looking forward to witnessing some of the families that are coming to pick up their gifts. Its something I have yet to experience and I am really looking forward to making the connection of "Giving" during this season.

Colossians 3:12 is really speaking to me this morning~
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Love makes you a kind person. Kindness also makes you a likable person. When you're kind, people want to be around you and when they see you being good TO them they also see you being good FOR them.

Proverbs 3:3-4
3 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. 4 Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.

Kind people simply find favor where ever they may go. I do my best to be kind to people and continue to be humble and content with whatever I have been given. More and more these past few years, my family and I are growing in our "Giving". It is addictive to "Give" - giving is more than money .... Giving is a part of yourself and when you can "Give" a part of ourselves to someone else or to a family and really get down to that level - it is something special.

~Kindness in its self is Gentleness. Be careful how you treat others. You operate in the sensitive mode when handling tough situations or having to do or say those hard things. You always put your self in the shoes of someone else.

~Kindness in its self is also Helpful. Being kind means you are meeting the needs of those around you right now. If its housework, making a meal, helping a friend, watching a friends child, or just being there to listen. We have to evaluate the needs and then be motivated to meet those needs no matter what they may be - even if your needs are put on hold.

~Kindness in its self is also Willingness. We have to be willing to get dirty and go to the messy places. We don't make excuses or complain - we just get busy doing what is needed. We can't be in the mindset of being in the spotlight as sometimes being kind is letting the person you are being kind to - be in the spotlight.

~Kindness in its self is also Initiative. We have to think ahead and take the first steps. Often times pride gets in people's way when it comes to asking for help. Sometimes we have to stay one step ahead of them and just serve them. We can't serve someone if we are sitting on the couch waiting for them to call. We often times have to go to them and not take no for an answer. Make things right! See the need and make the move forward.

Kindness is love in action. What kindness are you showing others today? Is there a need in regards to a friend, that is not being met today? What can you do to help that need and take part in that blessing?

I started taking care of the lawn care needs of a family 2 years ago. That blessing and that action has led to a friendship so close and dear to my family and I ... it is amazing what could happen when we take Kindness into the world and get moving.

Kindness with motivation = Great things ahead

Lonnie~

Weird...

Feeling a little weird this evening. Carol is out with her gals for a party with her bible study. Kyle and I just scanned the Apple TV for a movie and for an hour - did not see anything that caught our eye. Especially being age appropriate. Do parents care about that stuff anymore?
So checked my email... no email. No current books I am reading except for my bible every morning. So feeling a little lost this evening - especially with no survivor on.

Today did have some good moments though - Carol worked hard to pull together Kyles class Christmas party. There were a lot of parents there which was pretty awesome. The kids were all good and for an hour we got to do an activity outside. I was excited when one of "MyKids" came to me and said I was on her team. So we got to spend a little time together doing the activity all over the school grounds. It was warm today but wet so everyone had wet feet but thats better than freezing. Anyways - it was a good afternoon and I will miss seeing the kids the next 2 weeks. Hope to see some of them over the Christmas break. Finals are almost done at work - Gradution is on Saturday...... and a few weeks off to get some down time. I am looking forward to that! Have been burning the candle at a few ends the last few weeks. I will be posting some but not that often.

Have a good night everyone. There is MUCH to be thankful for.
Lonnie~

Salvation Army -

What an awesome night serving at the Salvation Army Christmas center. We had 11 folks go and serve the families in our community last night. We dropped off the adopted children gifts from our church and finished shopping for the remaining angels. We then moved all Angel Tree gifts to the floor and placed the toys and gifts into the appropriate family bag for distribution days - Thursday and Friday. It was a lot of work and I think we all left pretty tired - especially with getting home a little late for the kids and school the next morning. Shelley our Salvation army connection is looking pretty tired these days with putting in some 70-80 hour weeks. Here are some pictures taken last night. I am really hoping to get a chance to get out there tomorrow for an hour or so and see the families coming to pick up their Christmas gifts...... 200 an hour going through the doors. Amazing...... Thanks for making a difference in a child this Christmas with your giving and with your time this year. Its pretty awesome serving and giving like this.

Have a great day today!

Lon~

Tuesday.......

I missed having lunch today with some of "MyKids". The thought of them looking for me on "Our" Tuesdays with their sad faces is bothering me today but I hope to get over there tomorrow. We celebrated a retirement party for one of our dear co-workers today. After many years of service her time is winding down here at work. I am sure there are some emotions that go with leaving and moving on to the next place in life.


I am pretty excited about heading down to the Salvation Army tonight. Finishing up the last of our donated Angels from church and the last evening preparations as Distribution Day is tomorrow and Thursday. These are the 2 days where the families come and pick up their gifts. I am feeling that I need to go for a little while tomorrow and see this. I know it will be emotional and heart breaking but incredible all wrapped into one. I know Shelley has been working monster hours and this is what she has been working so hard to see. So, I am hoping she can let me in to witness this and experience this "Giving".


I got a chance last night to walk the dogs. It was after 7 and Kyle was busy with this and Carol was busy with that - so I grabbed my ipod and the dogs and headed out across the neighborhood. I got a good 2 miles in and it started to rain. It was refreshing and cooling on my head and face and I didn't mind it at all. During this walk, I really was listening to what God has been showing me the last few days, weeks and months. His whisper was - What am I passionate about? What is it that He has put on my heart that needs to come out? What is breaking my heart right now?

As a follower of Jesus Christ - our walk with Him is not confined to the Sunday services. It is not confined into a building and 4 corners. It is not confined in the worship song..... As a follower of Jesus - we are the church. We are to take the church with us where ever we go and to whomever we meet.
So what is breaking your heart today? What are you doing about it?

God has been breaking my heart lately and even though at times its scary, its tough, its hard and messy and I have no idea at times what on earth I am doing..... I am doing something about it. God is in the details.........


Thank You for the walk and the whisper last night Lord. I know I am doing what is right because I know it comes from You. You have placed the very thing on my heart for a reason and I am thankful for not running from it. I wonder who else would have answered the call - what blessings would I be missing out on? I thank you for my family in also helping. Together we are learning to listen to your whispers and doing something about what breaks our hearts. I continue to ask that my motives and actions be Your motives and actions. May you continue to be in every single detail no matter how big or small. I pray that when people talk or we get discouraged that You remind us Lord - that we are doing Your work. That above all things is most important. Lord thank You for where I am today, for my family supporting me, and help me keep my eyes on You. I look forward to what is ahead Lord because You are in those moments. I continue to pray that our community and the people who call You their Lord, that their faith is in motion, they are putting some action into their faith and that they are far from Luke Warm in their faith and trust in You.
I thank You for your son Jesus who has given us THE example to love others and to reach those around us - no matter the circumstances and the struggles.

Its in His name I pray,

Amen

Salvation Army Tomorrow Night~

Just a reminder for everyone - Your Angel Tree gifts need to be at the church office tomorrow no later than 5:15. Scott and I are loading his trailer and heading out. Hope to have lots of folks representing Rock River Community Church - but - they don't have to be. Bring your family and neighbors if you want. It is a great experience and tomorrow night will be no different. If anyone missed last week and you want to go tomorrow night - Please just let me know.
Email me - lrbatema@gmail.com

Hope to see you there~
Lonnie

December 15th and its 68 here. Hard to believe that - I hope to get a chance to get out and get some air on me this afternoon for a bit. Just got finished with a student interview - happy to say he is a church man and should make a good addition to our student employment here at work. We have a great bunch of students now and I am looking forward to next semester. Its exciting seeing our young folks taking their faith seriously and actually engaged in their church by serving, doing their ministry of helping others and having a soft heart for the Lord. 10 seconds in meeting them - you can see it. Thats flippin awesome!
Today I got the chance to give a Christmas card and an envelope to our housekeeper here at work. She works hard for little money here and she always has a smile when she stops in to say good morning. It was awesome seeing her open the envelope - hope it goes a long way in helping her ease the situations in life that she is struggling in today. Blessed to have some giving folks around me.
With the past week behind me - well my family too because Carol was just as much involved in the details as I was - I wanted to share a few things.

~Doing ministry is hard - its hard going to the tough places and meeting people right where they are. How can you encourage someone or help them when you are not willing to get messy?
~God often times calls us to help a family in need - we have to look past the issues of "Why" they are where they are and just get in there to help. We also have to look at helping past the holidays when everyone else is done their good deeds- they may still need help in the coming weeks and months
~Being a godly man raises a lot of questions sometimes. Doesn't matter that I teach Sunday school or heavily involved in my church - would those same questions be asked if I was a policeman, a teacher or a doctor?
~Sometimes we have to do hard things. God places some thing on your heart and we have to get on with doing His work. Regardless of what others are saying .... they are looking on and not involved...why? Sometimes doing Gods work is lonely but when you come out on the other side - man it is awesome knowing you are making a difference and you know God is smiling.
~Rest is something we all need. Even with all the things going on in life- we need to take time to rest and refresh. To gather our thoughts and reflect on what God is doing in our lives.
~The evening meal is meant to bring family and friends together. It is a time to put aside the baseball game or the school activity so you can invest in the important things. People~ Dont let distractions and business teach your children - You teach them what is important. They learn from us parents!
~A few times last week I was taken back by fear. Yes, I admit it - when people think and then talk and question things - It hurts. It stings and fear takes over. You begin to wonder why God has asked you to do something when some folks just don't get it. Often times when doing Gods work - the devil will put those people in your life to bring you down and to discourage.
~ I want my life and who I am to represent how much I love Jesus. No matter what I am doing, where I am or who I am with - I am representing God. Are my actions reflecting that? Are my words reflecting that? Are my motives His motives? Am I leading "MyKids" like that?
~I want my family and friends to see me as a leader. (I know they do)Who goes to the Lord for answers and direction. Who serves others even when its hard. Who wants to make a difference in the people around me. Who loves more than I thought I could. Who is willing to invest my time, my heart and my passion in who God has made me.
~I don't want to put off something for tomorrow when I know it will make a difference for someone today. Life is short and tomorrow is not promised. Today is our gift - be fruitful in it.
~I am an encourager - its a gift that God has given me. I am very peaceful in my nature and I am thankful for that. I want to be able to listen more and often times- talk less. Actions often times speak louder than words.
~I pray that my son keeps his heart in the Lords hands. I pray for him to lead the people around him and not be lead. To set the example and take a stand for what is right. To reach out to others no matter their situation. We don't always know what others are going through or where they have been. Giving is better than receiving - which is tough to learn in those teen years.

1 Peter -
Suffering for Doing Good 13 Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. 15 Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way.[c] Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 17 Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!

True Life…It is better to add life to your years than to add years to your life.
Looking forward to a good week ahead ....
Lonnie~

Sunday ....

What a week it has been. I am sitting and watching the Panthers take care of Denver. Awesome! Survivor up next and looking forward to that. This coming week does have its events but it wont be anything like this past week. It all was good and listening to Pastor Jimmy preach this morning - I wonder if Pastor Jimmy was with us this week? He spoke about doing the hard things when God has called us to do something. How that is so true after this week!
Kyle had his peeps over last night for his birthday party. I am all about hanging out with our peeps but even I was tired after 4 hours of 13- 11 year olds :)
Kinda sad one of "MyKids" went home today after staying with us since last Wednesday. Glad her mom and family arrived safely. There were lots of tough moments this week but God was in all the details - I am thankful for that.
Looking forward to a good week ahead...... I am blessed to be at a place in my life to be investing so much into the next generation and the next generation that will know Jesus! That alone is worth all the trouble, all the hard places and all the knowing that God is in the small details.
Lonnie~

Friday......

Why is it that when you extend yourself to do something good, to do something right- people make judgements, they ask questions and wonder about your motives? Anytime the Lords work is being done, the devil puts forth his side and things come about to discourage and make us doubt why we are doing what we are doing. Don't you think Satan knows about God? Satan has read the bible, he was on that inner lining until he decided not to follow and do his own thing.
So anytime we are doing something good, serving the Lord in some important way, reaching out to new areas of doing ministry where all the messy tough stuff is at - the devil will poke his head up. It might be through someone, comments, gossip, or some other circumstance ... but it will happen regardless.

Pray through it loved ones. Stay focused on what God has asked you to do. It might be tough but it will be sweet when you come out on the other side.

Its been a long week but I am really looking forward to walking through the "Streets of Bethlehem" tonight with my family and some of our Rock Group families. It should put everything into perspective.
Peace,
lonnie~

Carol - I just don't know where I would be without you. I had a few minutes to sit this morning after praying to get some thoughts together to put on my blog. I was up at 5:10 this morning waking in mid sentence in prayer...so many things heavy today. I am still no further along to update this blog. BUT -
I wanted to update everyone on the Salvation Army last night, next Tuesday's opportunity to go to distribution night, Kyles birthday, Uncle Buster having stroke yesterday and my Aunt Sharon, the girl in Kyles class who I told on Tuesday that I have been praying for her for weeks now as she was giving me a hug - she is going through some things we hopefully will never go through, our new Worship pastor decisions coming up, the tough sharp words of gossip and having to rise above that, Julie's surgery, little Adam, the long journey we are on with Hayley and her mom, lunches with "MyKids" and making time for each of them, leading the families in our rock group, being a daddy and a husband ..... and following Jesus.
I just don't have words for all this today. How is that encouraging and uplifting? I have to place these things in Gods hands - I never thought that following Jesus would take me to such hard and messy places. Our personal ministry that Jesus has called each of us to - is a hard one. It's hard going to places and shining for Him but it is something we have to do because we are called to do it. No wonder pastors of any size church end up out of ministry all together. The weight they carry for people is unreal.
Carol - thank you for your post this morning and putting my heart into your words because I know you are feeling it also. Thank you for walking with me, supporting me and following Jesus with me. My tears flow today ......... but thats ok.
I know Lee McDerment probably will never read this but if you do - thank you for your song - "Love Is" - it is really getting me through right now bro.

Last night before we left for the Salvation Army - I spoke to one of our pastors outside... you know who you are - thank you for listening bro.......

Yes ministry is messy. People are messy. Relationships are messy. Reaching people for Jesus is messy. Our faith and following Jesus cannot be and should not be luke warm. We either have to be cold (not believing at all) or on fire (all in) for Jesus........ luke warm is a trusting faithless walk. Who wants warm tea, beer, coffee, sweet tea, water??? It has to be cold or hot..... to be any good at all.

What is your temperature today?
1 Peter 4:8-10
8Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

Lonnie~

11 years has gone by since my life changed. Kyle is 11 today and in many ways its hard to believe 11 years has went by so fast. Back in 1999 when Kyle was just 2 - I had a close call with leaving this earthly home due to a sickness. It took months for me to recover and in some ways - that experience too has changed my life. God let me live and healed me so that I could continue to be a father for Kyle. It is the greatest role that I will ever play. But it is one of many roles that a father must have. I take each day now as "Precious" and asking God to continue to bless me as a father. I don't have all the answers nor do I not make mistakes but God has indeed blessed me with a wonderful son.

Above all things - I know that Kyle is Gods child before he is mine. Kyle knows God and is walking his life so far in His paths. I am very proud of some of the amazing things Kyle has shown Carol and I over the years. He has such a demeanor about him that shows through - he loves people and he really cares about them. He has surrounded himself with an awesome bunch of peeps and is a good judge of character. He is always making people laugh and in tough situations - he knows just what to do and say. He has suffered through the passing of 2 of his grandma's, a grandpa and an aunt..... we were at the nursing home when his grandpa was first admitted and Walts first roommate was sick. He died a few days later and Kyle and I were coming to visit. When we walked in we were met by his grieving family. His wife was weeping and I reached out to comfort her. She then pulled Kyle in and Kyle asked her - "Why are you crying - your husband is in heaven and he has waited his whole life to be there" She stopped crying and a big smile came over her face. She began to tell us about his life, his journey and his service to the Lord through their church. It was an amazing moment with such a few words. Kyle also adopted miss Lizzie when we were there. She has dementia but she always remembers "Banjo" and smiles so big when she sees Kyle. Kyle had played his guitar for her and that she remembers of all things.

Happy birthday Kyle - I am proud of you and love you more than I have words for. God has truly blessed me with a great son and looking ahead - I am excited to see what God has in store for you. He has great plans in your future - May he use you buddy for great things to bring glory and honor to His kingdom.

Love you buddy,

Daddy

Salvation Army - Angel Tree~

I am pretty pumped about serving at the Salvation Army tomorrow. It was great to hang out a little bit last night with Shelley @the Christmas center and see how God is using her. The last 5 Angels are on the list to be adopted here at work and 2 have went in the last few minutes- so that is pretty cool to see people jump on board with their giving.

I wanted to share a few pictures from last year. Carol has posted the details since she is getting many questions - you can check her blog here - http://carolbateman.wordpress.com/

Hope these pictures give you an idea for tomorrow! Hope you come and get involved~

Just got in from going over the directions to the Salvation Army in Wednesday. Directions done and excited to be serving so many families and kids who would otherwise not have much of a Christmas. Got to hang out a bit with my dear friend Shelley and her daughter. Got the grand tour and walked the area's we will be working in. It is going to be an amazing evening - even next week when we drop off all our adopted Angel gifts should be even more incredible evening.
Our church has the night to ourselves - so our experience will be that much more. At church Sunday our congregation adopted 45 children - 10 more than last year! Even with the economy down and many out of work - many have stepped up their giving.

Its Panthers monday night football. Driving by the stadium tonight - was pretty awesome. Lights and people everywhere! Its Charlotte's time to shine and lets hope for some good ol'fashion butt kicking here shortly. Go Panthers...........

Signing off now........
Lon~

Mondays have been a rest day for me for a long time. Sunday's just seem to keep get busier and busier or that I am getting older and older :) - I was proud of our Pre-K-5 Kids yesterday in their Christmas play. I was heart warmed by the folks who came out to support them - its a direct reflection of our youth program at church. I do believe that it is the future of the church by investing in these young folks. They will one day take ownership of their salvation and their church home - they will be married there and raise their families there. They have so much to look forward to but it takes work and it takes teamwork. So often we just look at what we see and not what God is doing behind the scenes. We are so closed minded and short sighted in life. We far too often give up and give in before the real miracles and change takes place.
I have been wrestling the "expectation" factor the last 4-5 days now. As a follower of Jesus - I expect to hear from our Heavenly Father on issues that I am struggling with. I expect to hear from our Heavenly Father on the prayers that I lift to Him. How can I not? If I am not hearing from Him then I need to do something differently or continue to stand strong and be patient because it is not my time but His.
How can we hear from God when we come into church on Sunday's late, leave early, gossip, don't serve and have a look on your face that harbors ill feelings towards others? How can we hear from God when we leave God at church on Sundays and then live our same lives the rest of the week? How can we put the church mask on Sunday mornings and hope nobody notices who we really are?
Every Sunday there is someone at their last strings of the rope. They need to hear from God in their life. They may be struggling with divorce, a child making hard choices, a sickness or who has had years of difficulties. It is that woman crying in the front row... it is the father who is looking to reconnect to his children again ... it is that mom who's the sole provider of her 3 children and is feeling alone even with 300 people around her. I too have to challenge myself at times to push through my sticking points. I have to dig deep and trust in my faith and my Trust in Jesus. I too have to be reminded that I took an oath when I accepted Jesus into my heart. TO become more like Him.... is that something you are doing? Honestly?

This morning while in Hebrews - This is what I am learning,
Hebrews 6:
We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that come with salvation. 10 For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers,[a] as you still do. 11 Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. 12 Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and endurance.

Last night there was a little girl who was singing in the choir. She was scared and started crying during practice. She came off stage and I reached out my hand to sit with her since her parents were not there. I gave her a big hug and told her it was going to be alright. I told her it was ok to be scared - I would be scared too - and if she did not feel like singing or didn't know the words she could just smile or whisper the words. She did not have to sing.... I went and got her a few pieces of candy and when she was ready - she got back up on stage. She made it through the play and there were parents, friends, grandparents and other church family members who got to see her sing and perform the Christmas story. It was a moment that is tender to my heart because Jesus put me where I needed to be. He put me on that side of the stage where a few minutes earlier - I was sitting on the other side with another family. She was the person who needed Jesus to calm her fears, who needed someone to speak encouragement to her, she was the one that needed a hug to build confidence to do what she was afraid to do. God was in those moments as the story unfolded. I am honored I was there.....
Be the beacon of hope through Jesus for others. Take a long hard look in the mirror - are you reflecting everything you think you are? Are you doing everything you think you are? Jesus went to the hard places, he met things head on and they were forever changed. My walk with Jesus is personal ... every moment of every day there is something I can learn... there is someone to serve... there is something hard to overcome... there is something to pray about....and there are answers if my expectations are eagerly waiting on the Lord.

Keep looking upward,
Lonnie~

Its all in a Psalm today~

Psalm - as defined by Dictionary.com - A sacred song; a poetical composition for use in the praise or worship of God.

Psalm 37
3 Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
5 Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. 6 He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
7 Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.
8 Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper— it only leads to harm.

It is hard sometimes when we are seeking the Lord for direction and answers. If you are not getting answers and direction after some time passes - why? As a follower of Jesus, it is our prayers that God speaks to us... It is the people God places in our lives that God speaks to us... It is that feeling you get in your heart and soul that you should do something or help someone that God speaks to us. If you are not hearing from God then maybe you are not seeking Him hard enough, long enough or in the right ways. Maybe you are not waiting long enough and asking God where are you ... I want an answer! Are there some things in your life right now that you lost the love and passion for? Do you seem to not love doing those things because it has become just routine or a drag to do or maybe you are not receiving something?
Hey relationships and people are hard - serving others is hard - serving God is hard. But through the sweat and tears and standing strong in what God has placed on you builds character and stamina and all the things that God wants to show you. Doing life with others has always been Gods plan for His children. Honor Him with your life, your love as you reach out to those around you and those in need, and in all the things you do. Maybe you have lost the passion and the love because you just need a small adjustment. Attitude - a little more rest- a change of pace - a little encouragement - some down time - dropping some things so you can focus on the bigger thanks or just some time alone with God.
Ask yourself - are you really seeking God for direction and answers? What is your face revealing to others today?

I took Carol to see FireProof last night. It was a great movie with a great message. 2 people opposite sides of their marriage and God is put in the center... a little patience and some time alone with God putting our trust in him even though it seems hopeless and pointless. Marriage restored, husband and wife restored - family restored. Good movie..... How did everyone know Carol and I had a date night? too funny........

This Psalm is on my heart today. Not sure why but between not sleeping well and cold medicine - someone might need it today. Press on loved ones....
Peace,
Lon~

I am still fighting my cold. It is worse in the mornings until I can get my coffee in and some cold meds before I start to feel a little better. I am making it though..... looking forward to spending some time with my wife tonight! Love it that she is clueless...... :)

This morning I walked through my bible in Titus Chapter 2:
1 As for you, Titus - (Frank, Bob, Harry, Mike, Tony, Tom, Steve, etc.....,) promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. 2 Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. 6 In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. 7 And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. 8 Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.

In many ways our teaching is not standing in front of an audience. It is not leading a bible study with 30 adults or 30 teenagers. It is not standing in front of a classroom and teaching on a particular subject. Our actions speak for themselves and how we live our lives often times holds more meaning that what we say. Especially to our children and those who we have influence on.
Dad's today have such a bad wrap. Society tells us that "Success" is measured in the amount of money we bring home or the job title at work. Often times, even those things are sometimes great, it means long hours, time away from home and family, and stress and more stress to get everything done and keep the boss happy or customers happy. God does not measure us through our work - I think He does care about those big things but He also cares for those small things. Like your relationship with your wife - your relationship with your kids - your relationship and example to those who you teach in sunday school or your youth group. Your example in the neighborhood ... your actions at the football game... how you treat the lady in grocery store when its her first day on the job and she is nervous and is moving slow and you're in a rush....
Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriouseness of your teaching. What are you teaching to those around you? Does your life reflect the love and passion you have for Jesus? What is your life reflecting right now?

Last night I shared with a couple of great buds of mine that before our Rock Group gets together on Sunday nights - I am just pacing. I am walking around and just so excited for everyone to get there. The time goes so fast when we are there. My lunches when I am at the schools with "MyKids" - that 25 minutes is WAY too fast. Yesterday I was running a little late, the class was a little early and there were panic on faces of "MyKids". They know I am there on Tuesdays. Teacher thanked me for coming in because she knew it would be a tough afternoon of dissappointment. The little things in life matter loved ones. God is looking to trust you with the little things. If we can't do the little things in life then how can we do those big things? Those little things may be sitting with your wife and reading a devotion together and praying over it. It may be spending some quality time with your children - one at a time - to make them feel as special as you know they are. It may be to extend a helping hand to that single mom who needs help with her child when school is out and needs daycare or a meal that is warm when the fridge is empty because paying the power bill is important!
I am excited today to iron out some details with serving at the Salvation Army this year. I am hoping lots of my church families get involved this year and come to serve as we shop and organize and help families in the area who would otherwise not have a gift for Christmas. It is important for our children to see this volunteer time and families reaching out to others who could use a little help or a little smile. The little examples leads to big examples. Gods little things lead to big God things.

God can use you as you are - right now. No need to go and fix this or get that figured out. You have been working on those things all your life and has it made any difference? Your example starts and begins ..... now.
Afraid of what people might say or afraid they will talk about you -then give them something to talk about -
What God is doing in your life!

Good Morning.....

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. We got to enjoy a few days at the cabin and fully enjoy the company and morning java on the front porch. We got home on Saturday but wishing we could stay another day. Sunday morning brought setup for church at an early alarm clock. Raining cold and not much help but just enough to get things done. Even with some problems along the way we were able to put everything together. Its a lot of work and a lot of time and a lot of sacrifice - especially on my family. There are not many days that I get to wake up on Sunday mornings with my family. Enjoy a warm breakfast and reading the Sunday paper is a long forgotten thing. I was reminded yesterday why I do what I do. Why I move forward and do the hard things. The message yesterday was right on for me. Travis did a great job in giving us a clear message. A message that reminds us that we all have to have action behind our faith. We have to move forward when God is asking us to do something. Hiding from God is not an option. There is no place to hide. Life goes on and sometimes life is hard and often times it is that way because we are not doing what God has called us to do. I took a step of faith and started serving in the kids ministry a few years ago. Scared, not knowing what I was doing, having no idea that I would have any value with directing these kids.... I just didn't see it - YET. By serving the Lord this way - He has opened my eyes and my heart to many things. There is a family that we have been helping the last month or so with meals, lunches at school and really investing in them. Sure there are issues, there is fear of many things, feelings of - are we doing the right thing? I got a note yesterday from the mom. Its a note that made me cry - I even had a teacher come over and ask me what was wrong yesterday. I gave her the note and she smiled and gave me a big hug.
You see - I want people to see Jesus through how and what I do. I have received the most important thing in life - Salvation through Jesus Christ. It changes a person when we cross that line. I see people differently now ... I especially see children differently now. I know I can't do it all but I know I can make a difference with what I have today. It is that note that gives me hope. It is that note that I know my family and I are doing the right things. We are being the church - Gods hands, His feet and His words. If we can't put action behind our faith - then our faith is dead. It is meaningless and we are living a blind selfish lie by going to church on Sundays and pretending. The rest of the week are living like - We have no faith at all.

Lord I pray this morning that You keep my motives and actions - Your motives and actions. I pray You continue to move my family and I closer together and on the same page with what we are doing for You. May Your spirit fill our hearts so that we have greater compassion and love for those around us. Thank You for loving us and placing us in the positions that we need to be in so that we can be Your hands, Your feet and Your words. May our hearts be all about the things of Your heart. I am so underserving of this, so small compared to Your mighty love that extends to all aspects of what You have called us to do. Lord I continue to ask that folks see You through my family and I. May they know that what we do is more about You than anything else. The note yesterday shows me that You are indeed in the center of it. I thank You..... Thank You for Your son Jesus. Thank You for calling my family and I to a greater calling in this life. May You continue to lead us and show us the way. Hard things or not.... May You continue to provide the paths...Paths that lead to You. Our actions put meaning in our faith. Thank You for walking with us Lord. I pray all these things in Your sons name in Jesus,
Amen


Is the face that I see in the mirror
the one I want others to see
Do I show in the way that I walk in my life
The love that You've given to me
My heart's desire is to be like You
In all that I do, all I am
Do they see Jesus In Me
Do they recognize Your face
Do I communicate Your love, and Your grace
Do I reflect who You areIn the way I choose to be
Do they see Jesus In Me
It's amazing that you'd ever use me
But use me the way You will
Help me to hold out a heart of compassionate grace
A heart that You're spirit fills
May I show forgiveness and mercy
The same way You've shown it to me
Now I want to show all the world who You are
The reason I live and breathe
So You'll be the One that they see
When they see me

Author Unknown

I just got back in from giving blood. The Red Cross is here on campus this afternoon for 5 hours. The sad thing is I was only #29. Pretty bad when there are over 20,000 students on campus and 5000 faculty/staff. I did get the honor of the procedure where they split out your white blood cells in the machine and then inject you with COLD saline. Well, its not that cold its at room temp but that is still only like 67 degrees. It makes you feel funny and my lips turn blue. During checkin the lady had a puzzled look on her face - she said did you just eat some icecream? I said heavens no - why? She said you temperature is only 94.3 degrees... I smiled and said - that is pretty normal for me -my wife is the HOT one. :)

I always reflect back to when my mom was sick when I give blood. This procedure is done mostly for cancer patients and I am glad to do my part in helping them in some way. It is a horrible disease and I am glad to have given this "Gift" to a person who is sick and their family during this Thanksgiving season.

Now I get to rest on the couch tonight and rest - nurses orders :)
Lonnie~

Morning time.....

James 2
Faith without Good Deeds Is Dead
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.[f] Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
26 Just as the body is dead without breath,[i] so also faith is dead without good works.

Ever get those nudges where you know God is asking you to do something? You sit and examine what it is you are feeling and then talk back and forth with God? You want me to do what? Now? Here? I will look stupid or silly ... Can't you ask someone else God? What if I fail or they reject me? I don't want to extend myself ... I am scared.
I do this as well. But I do it less and less often. I have had some nudges lately from the Lord. I have been blessed in the experience by just saying, "Ok God - I am on it".

There are some hurting people around us. There are some who feel they are walking completely alone. They may be surrounded by hundreds of people - but feel they are there - alone. We can feel alone even while sitting at a football game with 80,000 people around us. We have lost our purpose, our vision, experienced or experiencing something very dark and hurtful, but God can open that wound and clean it. He can shed light on that struggle and hurt and provide healing. He can restore that marriage, friendship or child who seems very far away from the family right now. The pit that you are in right now, whatever it may be, is God getting your attention. He is chasing you down. Every day of rebellion is a brick that is building a wall between you and our heavenly father.
Last night while spending some time with some good friends... I couldn't help but to look out the window and see the rain falling. This morning I know why the rain really stood out in my mind. It was God washing away what was left at that table. There was a start to healing because God sat at that table with us last night. He has told us that when 2 or more get together in His name, He would be there with us. Last night was a church night. We didn't have to wait till Sunday - we took the church with us. That rain is special, it refreshes our soul and makes new.
Psalm 95
If only you would listen to his voice today! 8 The Lord says, “Don’t harden your hearts."

God can and will do amazing things in your life, if you would just let Him. It's by His grace that we even draw our next breath.
I want to be right with God - Whatever it takes and whatever it costs...... join me in those words. Examine what you are carrying... the load is heavy. How much do you have control over those things anyways? You do your part....and God will do His part.
I too have had to learn that lesson....... I am thankful for many things this morning but most important - I am thankful that God accepted me as I am.

Start today Loved ones..... TRUST- The Real U Starts Today

With love and prayers,
Lonnie~

Monday morning....

And I did not like the alarm this morning. I was pumped up last night after Rock Group. Maybe it was the people and maybe it was God's word moving in me or maybe it was something shared. Maybe it was everything about it.... this thing of doing life with others. Others that are like family in so many ways. People you really care about and kids who you really want to pour into.

Yesterday at church Brandon and April shared with everyone that they are being called away from our church. Carol and I both sat and let a few tears go as they shared the answer of Gods direction. It must have been hard and tough for them to do this but honoring God is above all those things, especially the emotions and the goodbyes. Love you both ....... and so proud of you. I am excited for ya'll and the journey ahead.

Carol has got our turkey. She will be fixin to make the preperations for the 10 minute meal that takes 10 hours to get ready. Looking forward to some down time and sharing the meal over and over again... I am sure there will be turkey sandwiches, soup, cake and more turkey somethings. I continue to feel that this year will be a giving year even with the shape that folks are in. I do believe it will be a year spent on others. If money is short this year...... spend your gift in "TIME" - there are people out there who need someone to walk with them, to help that hurt, an ear for talking with, leaves that need to be cleaned out of the gutters, kids that can be watched so mom can have some "Mommy" time.... You fill in the "TIME" ....

Hoping to hang out with some of my guy peeps tonight........ have a great Monday~
Love ya'll,
Lon~

Saturday - has been a good day. Last night got to serve at the Angel Food Ministry at a local church. There was not much to do since most everything was done already. We were introduced to a man that gave us a tour of this awesome facility. It makes one dream big for a building built for Jesus. Makes me excited to one day see a place where Jesus will be a part of our community in a BIG way! Life changed and children growing up knowing they have a purpose, a plan, gifts and talents and that God loves them. It is very exciting indeed.
We dropped off the meal that came in a large box, feeds a family of 4 for a week - breakfast, lunch and dinner. I hope to continue to help those around me who need a little encouragment and a little help..... God has really placed this on me the last month or so.
Today I was awake early. Have one of "MyKids" onn my mind and heart today. She is with her dad for the first time in 2 years. I pray for that time together. Church Rock Group meeting this morning and then some wood splitting with Kyle. He worked his butt off getting that wood split. Love it when he learns about hard work. This afternoon we headed to the movies. It was a good family time together.
49ers game tonight. Kyle has his green hair and face painted...... hee looks awesome. Hope we come out with a Win against Clemson....should be exciting.
Early start tomorrow with setup at church. Going to be cold but really looking forward to serving. Praying God moves like never before and in a new exciting way. Big changes coming ...... but I am trusting God above all else. Walk by Faith.......

talk tomorrow....
Lon~

Philippians 3:12-15
I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.

A few years ago, I did everything I knew how to do to speak for Jesus to my family. It was a promise that I made to my mom before she passed. We were at the hospital and a LOT of my family members where there visiting with mom. It was early on in her fight with cancer and mom had some toughness about her! I remember her sitting up and asking everyone to leave the room. Shocked at this...we all began to leave and she asked my dad to leave to and then said "Except for you Randy". I thought, oh boy, I am in trouble - what did I do or say now?
Mom began to explain to me what was ahead for her. She explained to me that she wanted to see my dad and my brother and so many others in heaven. She didn't want to fight this cancer and not know for sure that she would see them again. On a napkin -she made me write -"I Promise" on it. I promise to make sure I would lead our family to Jesus. I would do everything I could to make sure mom would see the people she loved the most - her family. I walked out of the room with the napkin shaking in my hands and everyone sitting on edge waiting for me to come out. 1000 questions at once - I showed them the napkin and then sat down next to the little kitchen coffee area - and wept.
I held strong on that promise for the first year and half. I did everything I could, I was driving myself crazy, I was feeling the weight of that promise on my shoulders. I felt letdown and shamed that I had no gotten any closer to bring my family to Jesus than when I wrote those words. God spoke to me then and told me - "Hey, I got it". "Keep serving me and doing as I ask and I will take care of everything, leave it, leave them with me". It was well needed and God lifted that weight off my shoulders. He carries it now and even though I am still not sure if God is the centerpiece ... I know its in His time and not my time. Its in His hands and not in My hands. I can only do my part in leading folks to Jesus - I can only do my part in showing them the practical love of Jesus - I can only do my part in living out my life for Jesus and what He means to me. Their walk is their walk....... I press on because I know what is ahead. The last few months, I have felt a bigger calling to do more for those around me. I told a family just this week when dropping a meal off to them that I had stopped arguing with God about doing His will. I hear his voice to do something and I say no way ... you want me to do what? Come on, this is silly - often times I would pass it off. I miss out on the blessing or what God wants to teach me. I am finding myself more in tune the last few months with God and just doing what He wants me to do...regardless ......
Even though things around you today seem dark, things never seem to change, people are the same, you have taken 2 steps up and now something has happened and 3 steps back are in order.... God is working in those steps regardless of what we see.

When you accepted the call to follow Jesus - You also wrote "I Promise" in your heart. Press on loved ones, even during those sticky parts and those hard places. Keep doing The Hard Things...........God is working in them even when we don't see it. God is working in those family members, your neighbors and loved ones - even when we don't see it. I heard about a wife who worked at a church as the pastors assistant for over 14 years. Every Sunday she served the Lord, served their pastor and the community - she lived a life worthy of being called a follower of Jesus. Her husband came to church every Sunday, supported her in everything she did - but he did not know Jesus - even though the pastor and so many others have shared Jesus with him. He was not ready ... he was not there yet. One day at a prayer meeting, he again felt the call on his heart to accept Jesus. He owned a local restaurant and had invited his pastor and many of his family and friends for a meal. After the restaurant had long closed - everyone was still there.... everyone wondering why - it was then that he shared his story. How he was not ready, afraid of what others might think, 14 years of walking and wandering, afraid to take the step in faith to trust in Jesus over his life. It was then that the pastor, his family, friends and his wife shared in him accepting Jesus. 14 years .......... but worth every step of it.

Mom, "I Promise" will forever be written on my heart. Because of your sickness, the darkest time ever in my life, it changed the direction of my life. Something good came from something so horrible. Darkness turned to light - I answered God's call on my life. I am His ....
TRUST - The Real U Starts Today

Look ahead loved ones.... there is more and the best is ahead of us - exciting things are in front of us. Its time to dig in and "Do the hard things".

What is God asking of you today?
Lon

Wednsday thoughts...

Kyle has his Wednesday evening Bible study with his friends tonight. I am thankful for his peeps and their parents that come and get him and drop him off. It gives Carol and I 2 hours to get things done, have dinner together, sit and talk ... just have a little time together. With everything we are doing and all the places and needs we are meeting - it is nice to have a little time for each other. I miss that and I look forward to the Thanksgiving break and the Christmas break to have more time together.

Some of the things I am learning ......
Proverbs 24:
16 for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity.

Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly - at first. Anything worth doing is worth failing at and trying again. So many times we stay in our comfort zones. We feel inadequate in taking on new challenges, especially when we have never done something before. We are afraid to move forward. I have struggled in the past to staff my ministry teams with the right amount of people. There never seems to be enough people willing to help. Willing to step forward and take a chance and coming out of their comfort zones. The last few days, it has been clear that people who serve - need to serve with their families. It needs to be a total buy in to Gods vision and purpose and it has to be within the family. The family needs to be involved. I have seen so many times the dad serving or the mom serving and the other is not.... it just doesn't last. I am not saying that to be true in all cases - there are some wonderful folks serving and have served for an extended time. I continue to pray for 7 all out, totally sold out, totally got the fever for Jesus families to come to my church and step up in a way that no matter if they are cleaning toilets, teaching kids or just moving heavy speakers from one place to another........ SOLD OUT!!!

I can remember when I first started serving at church after years of excuses. Excuses of lies really. I just was not sold out on this church thing and was not following Jesus with my heart even though outside - I appeared to be doing everything right. I remember the first few times serving, putting the screen together wrong, upside down, legs at different length - I remember putting chairs up in a row that a blind person could put straighter - I remember those tough days serving and having no idea what I was doing but I knew God wanted me there......... I am forever grateful for the step in faith and trusted Him for leading me to serve. It has been an amazing walk to say the least.....

I have come to realize that its OK to fail at hard things, because all effort - even failed effort- produces growth. I think about our teenagers and our children - we rescue them way too often when they fail. We don't let them experience it and then encourage them to try again. Often times we either bale them out or do the task ourselves. Lessons passed instead of lessons learned. Years later we may have teenagers or 20 somethings afraid to "Do the Hard Things" because fear of failure keeps them from even trying.

Pastor Furtick from Elevation wrote on a recent blog - that when we move up to the next level - we often find ourselves at the bottom of that next level instead of at the top. Its like moving from Elementary school to Middle School. We are at the top of the school in 5th grade only to come to 6th and be at the bottom. Middle to High - High to College - Job Promotion to Job Promotion......... God wants to stretch us, teach us, push us to our limits and beyond .... so that we grow.
Growth being a Christain is the same concept. We are baby Christians we think and act centered around us. Spoon fed........ learning, shaping, character building because of Jesus - our focus becomes others, serving others, helping others.... the graduation from one level to another can't happen without some failure along the way.
BUT - it produces growth...........Great things are ahead ~

Peace,
Lon~

Footprints.....

What I have to share this morning comes from Acts 26: - I have been thinking about this for weeks now as a piece a story together.

What kind of footprint are you going to leave that represented your life? When its all said and done - what will be your mark that your life stood for? What imprint is left?

Our footprints are all different. They are also there only for a short while until the water washes it away and shifts the particals of sand from one place to another. The last few years has taught me some very important things in life. Never take it for granted and don't put off what you can do today until tomorrow because tomorrow may not come. Today is a gift and we should thank God for each of them because its by His grace we are allowed to live it. My mom was such a giving woman. She lived her entire life giving and serving others. Often times, doing without so that someone else could have. I can remember her telling my brother and I that it was always better to give than to receive. Only until the last few years have I really understood that. Only until recently it has really got a hold of my heart.

I have always wanted to live my adult life as simply as possible. I never really dreamed of being rich or famous. I just wanted to live a happy life with what I had with family and friends around me. So many of us persue the dreams of the rich and famous. You can see how some of their lives have gone and make that decision. I know many folks who have tossed their marriages aside, raising their kids or working endlessly for the bigger house and bigger paycheck. Today people move across country for $2000 more a year when they should be putting down roots and footprints for their children. I spoke a little about this on Sunday being that I feel very blessed to have what I have. To have more than my fair share of things in this life and how I did not want to just store those things up. Build bigger barns to hold more things - many of us have garages today only to hold stuff - instead of the family vehicles. I want my life to be about "Jesus" and about "Giving". In that order - I walked through the graveyard where my mom is buried a few weeks back after my family reunion. So much is told in the words on those headstones. ~Loving wife - loving mother - war veteran - died too early .... so many things that people will read and remember. That one thing sums it up? Is that what we will remember of that person? Over the last few years my family and I have shared in the loss of some close family members. They were hard times to go through. Coming out on the other side has left a lasting mark on our lives. Life is way too short ...and now that we are officially middle age I guess - 42 - who knows how much time is left here. We just don't know and I have been just heart pressed to make a difference today. SO many of us work and raise our families, doing our own thing and waiting for retirement. Thinking then we will be living - got some free time, don't have to work, kids are grown - now its time to live. Doctor calls and things change. Plans come to a halt. Life is paused as our life plays out its story. As followers of Jesus - we are called to be different. We are called to make a difference in those around us, to share the "Good News" to breath truth and life into those around us. To be that encouragement someone needs and to be that friend when someone needs it. To be that male or female role model for that child who needs one. To forgive because God has forgiven you regardless of what has been done. Grace is an amazing thing!

When taking a stand for Jesus - it can be really hard at times. We carry the weight of those around us often times. I could never imagine the weight that our local church pastors carry. I feel 1000 pounds sometimes! But I know those pounds are because of Jesus and I am willing to carry the load for Him because one day I will stand alone - me and Him - and I will be judged for my -Footprints- that I have left here. I don't want to waver or quit the fight. In Acts 26: Paul who led a life chasing down Christians, killing them, putting them in jail and so many other things. He often called himself the worst of the worst. God used him in one of the greatest capacities ever. He faught the good fight and stood strong for Jesus all the way to the finish line. No matter how hard it was..... he endured even when he had the chance to walk away from it - to live his life longer.

SO I am asking this morning - what kind of footprint are you leaving behind? We all will have a headstone with something written on it .... what is that going to be?

Some of us will have a chance to write that and some of us won't. Some of us will have the chance to tell family and friends what they have meant to us and some of us won't. That is one reason why I tell so many of you now and today - I love you. There is no question or doubts - I am willing to "Do the Hard Things" and serve others ~ and give so much of myself. I want my footprint to mean something........ something significant for Jesus. Let Him live in you and through you loved ones. Chin up...... and leave your mark.

With a footprint love,

Lonnie~

Acts 26
1Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You have permission to speak for yourself." So Paul motioned with his hand and began his defense: 2"King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today as I make my defense against all the accusations of the Jews, 3and especially so because you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.
4"The Jews all know the way I have lived ever since I was a child, from the beginning of my life in my own country, and also in Jerusalem. 5They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that according to the strictest sect of our religion, I lived as a Pharisee. 6And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our fathers that I am on trial today. 7This is the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night. O king, it is because of this hope that the Jews are accusing me. 8Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?
9"I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10And that is just what I did in Jerusalem. On the authority of the chief priests I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them. 11Many a time I went from one synagogue to another to have them punished, and I tried to force them to blaspheme. In my obsession against them, I even went to foreign cities to persecute them.
12"On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. 13About noon, O king, as I was on the road, I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, blazing around me and my companions. 14We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic,[a] 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.'
15"Then I asked, 'Who are you, Lord?'
" 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' the Lord replied. 16'Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen of me and what I will show you. 17I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them 18to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'
19"So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. 20First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds. 21That is why the Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me. 22But I have had God's help to this very day, and so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen— 23that the Christ[b] would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles."
24At this point Festus interrupted Paul's defense. "You are out of your mind, Paul!" he shouted. "Your great learning is driving you insane."
25"I am not insane, most excellent Festus," Paul replied. "What I am saying is true and reasonable. 26The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. 27King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do."
28Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?"
29Paul replied, "Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains."
30The king rose, and with him the governor and Bernice and those sitting with them. 31They left the room, and while talking with one another, they said, "This man is not doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment."
32Agrippa said to Festus, "This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar."

Kids Small Group~

I wanted to share this morning our kids small group lesson from last night. As the big kids (parents) got their meeting started, I huddled the kids together in the office. I asked each of them what it meant to be "Fit". I got some good responses and then asked how does one become fit?
I then asked the kids for 20 situps. We all crossed our legs together and like a giant star in the floor - we did 20 situps together. I then asked for 20 pushups - each of us doing our modified pushups ...some better than others :) - I then explained to everyone that if we did these exercises each day that we would become physically fit. But God has also called us to take care of our spiritual side as well. It makes a body complete when we are physically fit and spiritually fit. Each day we are to read in our bibles and study Gods word just like we exercise our bodies. We can't just workout on Tuesday and expect to be in good shape. We can't just go to church on Sunday and live anyway we want to the rest of the week.
I asked how we could do that - be spiritually fit? The kids shared with me: to read their bibles each day ... Also to do one good thing for someone each day. To be thankful in all things.....I then got a hug from one of "MyKids" and she said - there got that good thing done today! All I could do was smile ... that really meant a lot to me. We then closed in prayer. I rejoined with the big kids in their lesson~
The lesson comes from 1 Corinthians 9
24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
25Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

T.O - has a new commercial out - while in the gym the reporter asks to see his abs. They are 10 pack for sure.... he has earned them and works hard for them. (kyle loves this commercial) He is in shape ....... many of us know that feeling of being pushed when we are running or doing something that really strains us. I know the feeling of running and not knowing if I am going to make that next step without dropping or quitting. We are in that zone .... and we push through it and keep going. Our spiritual side works much that way. Maybe we have come to a place where its tough. Tough to keep going, tough to keep serving, tough because people are talking or pushing us away or we have been hurt in some way.... maybe its not what we expected all this following Jesus stuff. But like an athlete - we have to push through our tough spot in order to break new ground ... we then will reach new understanding and experience something new that we would never have experienced or understood if we just gave up.
Following Jesus is hard - it is tough. Really follow Him for some time and you will agree. We become more about others than we do ourselves but we must remain committed to serving God and learning His word. The end is the result in finishing the race. You competed and finished - as you stand before our awesome God - it will be a proud moment that you can say.... you didn't quit......
Finish strong loved ones and break through your sticking point....... new ground awaits and new understanding is waiting for you to experience - the AWESOMENESS of Jesus.

Praying for many things this morning and for many close to me,
Lonnie~

Home.....

Just letting everyone know we are home from the cabin. Long weekend that was much needed. Got to put the last spin on the lake on Saturday - God blessed us with a great day - sunny and somewhat warm. We had rock group tonight and glad we did. I was pretty close in just taking the night off and calling it off - but one thing I am learning from the book I am reading is - do the hard stuff. Easy to take the night off - but God shown me tonight that it was worth not calling it off. I am feeling good and glad we didn't call it.
More tomorrow on this weekends events.
Unplugging for now.....

Lon~

Wow- almost time..... It has been a long time since I have been this excited about a day off. My family and I are headed to the cabin tomorrow after Kyle gets home from school. We are taking one of "MyKids" with us as this will probably be a weekend she will always remember.... and its not that we are doing anything crazy or especially fun ... its just a change of scenery and that is something we all need right now.
Carol and I have been burning the candle at both ends lately - especially the last few weeks. We are looking for some down time for sure..... we have to pull the boat out of the water on Saturday, but not before a quick ride around the lake - I don't care how cold it is.... we are making some waves! We have enjoyed the lake this past year and will be very excited for next year. Lots of good family and friends time up there!

Anyways - ya'll have a good Friday - I will try and post as time permits but unplugging might be in the doctors orders! Rock Group peeps - see ya Sunday ... Can't wait......

Love ya'll and keep looking up - God is so wonderful~
Lonnie~