The Cotter Key

I HAVE HAD A STROKE

2010-06-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've added anything to my blog, and so I've decided to get back into it. It's time to try again.

I had a stoke back in early May; it was not the sort of stoke that I would ever consider as one of my experiences. It was different than anything I had every known; I really even had not heard of this type of stoke. Of course, that was just my personal knowledge. It is probably much more common that I ever knew; I've read a lot about it; and I've found examples of people who are acting and reacting just like me.

I now have aphasia. Look up that word if you're unfamiliar. I guess I can best explain it in this way. I am sitting at the computer and writing this material, and it is very easy to do. I may have slowed a little, but I can still type and communicate at a fast pace. It seems to me to be normal and usual. (You can let me know after you've read . . you can fill me in on the mistakes that you might find.)

No, my problem is not in writing and in certain levels of communication. My problem is related to reading and understanding words. I still have a goal of reading the newspaper each day, and I usually accomplish some type of reading. It does take me a long time to finish, and I often don't really understand the words and thoughts that are being communicated. I am often baffled by simple words that were once very common to me. I sometimes feel like a pupil in the 2nd or 3rd grade class. I can see the words and the letters, but I just don't really know the word. I am now involved in reading a book on Texas History. I'm averaging 5-10 pages a day.

It's a strange feeling. I don't feel any different than I felt in the past. I didn't and don't have any pain or outward indications of a stroke. I'm able to drive and do the yard work. think I'm the same old guy, but my reading and understanding ability has suffered.

The diagnosis indicates improvement over the coming months. One of the things that will help me is to write and talk about it. SO . . that is what I'm doing in this blog. That's why I'm telling you the story. I certainly am not looking for any pity. I'm determined with God's leadership that He is still in control. I've been preparing all my life for a trial like this. It's already a fun trial.

EASTER

2010-04-04T06:01:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday is resurrection day . . but today it has extra meaning. Remember our Savior today as never before. Worship with his people! God has His people where you are today!

PHIL CARD OF THE NORTHERN PLAINS

2010-03-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

We were sad but also joyful to hear today of the passing of Phil Card. Phil is now sitting in the very presence of our Lord, and he is worshipping at the throne. It has been the goal of his life, and it is now reality.

Phil and Doris Card have been some of God’s finest servants on this earth for many wonderful years. Before I ever arrived in Colorado in 1980, the two of them had given a lifetime of service in the Northern Plains. Phil had already given “fits” to Nicy Murphy and Glenn Braswell and many others. He had scattered flyers all over Glorieta, had taught dozens to fly, and had done at least one “wheels up” landing with the CBGC airplane. Most of all, he had a wonderful Christian influence on hundreds of BSU students and leaders in the churches all across the mountain states. His reputation at Nashville was enormous; I never attended a national meeting with Church Training leaders without someone bringing up Phil’s name and reputation. He was loved around the world.

His funeral will be later this week at Mississippi Avenue Baptist Church in Aurora, Colorado. Hundreds will be there to remember and honor him. Doris will be filled with sadness but with gratefulness for the life of her wonderful husband. He has lived a full life of ministry. He has been found faithful.

THE BADRY BUNCH

2010-03-13T06:45:00.000-08:00

No, it's not a slip of my typing skills. And there is no song to go with this one . . though there should be. I guess if you put them into a large tic-tac-toe pattern, there would be at least nine of them. And . . they would all be smiling and sharing the love of Christ.

I'm speaking about the Badry bunch!

It was our privilege to hear a wonderful choral concert at the University of Oklahoma on Thursday evening. Our dear friend, Jimell Badry and his wife Carolyn, were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Music School at OU. Jimell directed the wonderful choral presentation "The Majesty and Glory of Your Name", and many people were there to express their love to the Badry family.

Jimell arrived in Colorado in the early 1990s after many years of church ministry in Texas and Oklahoma. He was already a "mature" man by that time, but he jumped into ministry with a great enthusiasm. His church, First Baptist Church of Black Forest, became a leading church in the denomination. His music program could not be topped, and his love for Christ was evident in everything he did. Jimell is about 77 now, and after retirement he and Carolyn have moved to Forney, Texas to be near their daughter. Even as we speak he is looking for a church to serve. He wants to continue the joy of leading people in worship and in great choir work.

RL and I had the privilege of becoming great friends with him and Carolyn in Colorado. We count them as jewels in God's work. It was a joy to see them honored this week.

After Jimell and Carolyn arrived in Colorado, their son Jay along with his wife Becky came to serve as Pastor at First Baptist Church of Colorado Springs. It was my privilege to work with Jay over many years, and Becky later came to work under my supervision at the Colorado Baptist General Convention. She continues to serve as the Women's Director for the denomination along with many other expanding areas of responsibility. They are our dear friends in the Lord.

The tic-tac-toe board is now being filled with Badrys.

Before I knew Jimell, Carolyn, Jay, or Becky, it had been my privilege to work many times with music evangelist Jamall Badry. That's confusing, isn't it? Jimell or Jamall. Which came first? The truth is that Jimell came first, but Jamall is his younger brother. Jamall still does an outstanding music conference in Colorado Springs and one in Branson, Missouri. I saw him again on Thursday evening, and he is still serving the Lord with enthusiasm and joy.

Listen to the music.

"The Badry bunch . . the Badry bunch . . that's the way they all became the Badry bunch."

THE PLAGUE OF THE CHURCH

2010-02-24T16:59:00.000-08:00

I don't know where I found this, but it has been on my computer. If light of the church and it's needs, I thought I'd include in on the blog. The title is "Gossip can kill a church".

Am I a gossip?
—When there is a problem in church, do people run to you to get the “scoop”?
—Do you ever begin a sentence with “Don’t tell anyone, but…”?
—If every word you mutter was printed on the local newspaper’s front page or broadcast on radio, would it honor God?

Tips to Avoid Malicious Gossip
—It takes two to gossip. If you’re listening, that makes you #2.
—Don’t whisper in public.
—Watch your nonverbal responses. A raised eyebrow can equal gossip.
—Be polite, but don’t participate.
—Your best friend shouldn’t be the church gossip.
—Don’t disguise gossip as prayer.
—Just because it’s true doesn’t mean it’s appropriate to verbalize.
—If you say it to a friend, it’s still gossip.
—Never allow a person’s character to be degraded.
—Correct misinformation.
—Sharing a prayer request? Don’t give too much information. God knows the details.
—Never speak negatively about the church down the street.
—Stop, drop & pray. At the first hint of gossip, immediately interrupt and pray aloud for the situation.
—Guard what you put in print. Written words may appear harsher than intended, and email may be forwarded to hundreds!

Avoiding Misunderstanding on the Internet
—Is what I am about to say honoring to the Lord Jesus?
—What is my intention in putting these words up on the Internet for the whole world to see?
—Would I be willing to speak what I am about to write to another person’s face, or only to him indirectly through the Internet?

Here's a good scripture to support the facts. "The one who reveals secrets is a constant gossip; avoid someone with a big mouth." Proverbs 20:19 (HCSB)

QUALITY VS. ROYALTY

2010-02-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

On Thursday evening we were watching the men's ice skating finals from Vancouver, and the camera scanned the audience for some personalities.

The first person shown and mentioned was Jerry Jones . . described as American sporting royalty.

The second person to be shown was Tony Dungy . . described as a man of quality.

What a comparison!

Which one would you rather be? It says a lot about your priorities.

MY NEW CHRISTIAN BROTHER

2010-02-18T09:21:00.000-08:00

I met Richard Williams just a few weeks before our planned trip to Ecuador. There was an immedicate connection with this new brother in Christ. He's been a Christian only a short time, and God is doing a marvelous work in his life. This was his very "first" missions experience, and God used him in marvelous ways. I've attached what he had to say. Listen to his heart with your heart:

Dear Many People,

The group that left for Ecuador last Tuesday is back home and I would like to thank all that prayed, financed, and gave their support to this mission. This was the fifth trip of many and I hope you continue in your support and prayers for the people there as well as those to come. I personally thank you for an experience of a life time and a lesson of how big, loving, and in control our God is.

I left not knowing exactly what I could do, but with a desire to help in anyway I could and I came back with the knowledge that I can do nothing on my own, but to serve God, honor God, love God and watch what He can do. I suggest we all love one another and let God do His work through us.

Man with his bitterness, self-centeredness, and sinful nature creates not only separation from God, but separation from one another. God and His love, a love so big we truly don’t comprehend, can and does transcend all barriers and boundaries. He can break through any obstacle to show how great He is.

This life really can’t be about us, but the more we try to do for others it seems to me that God shows it is about us. Not in the sense that we normally think, but in the sense that God wants to show His love for us and He is pleased when He is glorified, recognized, worshiped and loved. You can’t out love God… Try it… I challenge you.

Many things took place and I won’t go into all the details, but here is a few of the things that went on. A hungry family was fed with a surprise food package that was left at their doorstep. Books were donated to the local University. Children at the local elementary school received a lesson on conserving energy to help cut back on power failures in the area. They were given goody bags and a message of God’s love, but they gave back big smiles, hugs and love that was so precious and much more valuable than anything we brought to them. The community was offered and many took part in a leadership conference and a marriage conference that both emphasized Biblical principals and honor to God through service, but the people gave back a thirst and hunger for more knowledge and that was refreshing to me. A free movie was offered, received and enjoyed by many of the Ecuadorians, but they gave back enthusiasm, joy and pure gratitude for something many of us take for granted

Not only was a roof replaced for the care taker at the community woman’s center, but the woman received help with an old rotten floor that also allowed moisture in. It wasn’t a big project and, in all honesty, I imagine some on this list have storage units that are larger and in better condition. I know for a fact that some have a bigger and better place to park there car than this woman has to live, but the roof job lead to another job at a local home to replace an old rickety make shift dangerous second level walk way that children used. A new sturdy steal beamed walkway with rails that could support a number of people at the same time is now in place. Not only did the brother of the woman that received the roof at the woman’s center give forward and help with building the walk way, but the man of the home invited us and opened his house for a Sunday home church worship service. It was beautiful. Because of translation the walk way project was described as a bridge and we went without knowing what sort of bridge to build. What I found was that God is building a bridge through all of His children to connect us all in His love.

We had one day, the last day, to do some sight seeing, but God wasn’t done with me yet. We were able to go to Quito and take a cable lift to the top of a mountain that looked over the whole countryside and there He was in nature, as in Romans 1:20, and there was no excuse for not recognizing how great God is.

From there it was to the equator and the message was God is in control. There is a natural order to things. Many of you know more about the natural sciences than I do, but where does natural science come from if not from God? If one tries to walk the equator with hands outstretched and eyes closed, he can feel the pull from both the north and south. One must open his eyes and concentrate to walk a straight line. It is a very strange sensation. There is physical proof that we have natural forces pulling on us and it demonstrates the pull of the world in our lives to succumb to one direction or the other. The same is true in the spiritual sense, but God isn’t going to force you to love Him. He has given you free will, but He wants you to come on your own volition. God wants our total attention and trust, but we allow distractions and outside forces to pull us in all sorts of directions. Sometimes all that we have, all we think we need and the entire surplus that is nearby can be an obstacle to our total trust in God. If we know where our next meal is coming from, if we know we have shelter with a sound roof to keep the next storm out, what do we need God for? If we know we are going to heaven….Hmmm?

My new Ecuadorian friends need God, but they are no different then you, me, your next door neighbor, brother, sister, mother, father or anyone else you see throughout any given day. We all need God, His love, His abundance, His peace, His protection, His salvation and it is all there for the asking. Ask Jesus into your heart and if He is already there ask Him to grow in you like He never has done before. Take His love, walk in His ways to show that you love Him, love one another, forgive one another, and let there be peace on earth…

I love you and please forgive me when my actions or lack of don’t show it.

Richard

THAT'S GOOD STUFF . . FROM GOD . . TO MY HEART . . Sam

FLAT MITCHELL

2010-02-17T19:46:00.001-08:00

We've played along with several of our grandchildren when they've sent a Flat Stanley to us for a visit. It's always been fun to take pictures of Flat Stanley in various places and poses. Written by Jeff Brown in 1964, this famous story has been the joy of many parents and grandparents.

I had extra special fun recently when I took Flat Mitchell of Michell Hedstrom fame on a trip to Ecuador. We traveled with seven others on a mission trip to Cumbaya, Ecuador. I hope to get most of the pictures on my Facebook soon. You'll enjoy the many scenes of his visit to South America.

We had to smuggle him into Ecuador since he didn't have a Visa. All of my Baptist friends were very happy to break laws so he could go with us. I'm glad he didn't get detained because he needs to get back to Columbus Elementary School. The rain, celebration of carnival, travel in a notebook, and eating all kinds of Ecuadorian food were very distressful to him, but he survived. I hope the original Mitchell recognizes him when he gets home.

Thanks Flat Mitchell . . we had a great time.

HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1957

2010-02-07T13:06:00.000-08:00

RL and I had lunch today, as we do every three months, with 27 people, most of them who graduated with me in 1957 from Weatherford High School. It is always fun to sit and discuss some of our memories from high school and junior high and elementary school. Some of our memories are the same; many are different.

There is one significant change to our conversations. Most of these 70+ year olds speak a lot about the shortness of life, the coming of death, and the fact that all of us have an eternity in front of us.

It's a more comfortable conversation now than when we were 18 years of age. I thank God that I've had the opportunity to say good things about Him over the years. I'm also thankful for the eternity with Him that is ahead.

KEN ALBERT AT SOUTHERN SEMINARY

2010-02-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

Ken is an old friend from Colorado who is now working on his PhD at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. This was his post on FaceBook today:

"Ken Albert Fired up, and ready to preach (oops, TEACH) for 3 hours at Southern. Hard to believe that I will actually get paid to teach personal evangelism. Yakov Smirnov had it right, "What a country!""

I added a comment to his page that said, "What a great God". Let me tell you some of Ken's story and why we serve such an awsome, wonderful God.

Ken grew up in the Boston area, and he was in trouble with the police from his earliest years. He was, what be described, as a hoodlum. I don't really know much about the crimes he committed, the time he spent in jail, or the locations. I just know that he finally ended up in the prison system of Colorado out on the eastern plains. His life was a mess, and he found himself in a terrible spot.

Ken volunteered to work with the chaplain at the prison, knowing that it would give him access to books and to a small amount of freedom. He didn't care anything for Christianity and its claims, but being a chaplains helper was easier than other jobs. He also didn't know that the Holy Spirit was already giving him direction that would place him in a position to clearly hear the gospel. (That's how God works!)

Larry Maxwell served as a Director of Missions on the eastern plains of Colorado, and he would often make visits into the prisons in the area. His daughter, Shawna, a school teacher in the panhandle of Texas, would often visit her parents, and Shawna would also go with her father to the prisons. It was on one of these gospel sharing trips that Shawna met Ken, who was working as the Chaplains Assistant. Larry told me later that he immediately recognized a "connection" between Shawna, the preacher's daughter, and Ken, the inmate. As most people would understand, that was not a good thing. So Larry and his wife Betty began to pray very diligently about that relationship.

I don't exactly remember the details, but during this time, Ken Albert was gloriously and wonderfully saved by the power of God. He accepted the claims of Christ for his life, and he began the new journey of faith. And, oh yes, he and Shawna were later married.

By the time I first met Ken and Shawna, he was already pastoring one of our small Baptist churches in Colorado and was a student at the Rocky Mountain Campus of Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. His testimony, as you can probably tell, was thrilling. He was so excited about the gospel, growing and maturing each day. It was "fun" to be around him and to feel his enthusiasm.

Ken and Shawna did a wonderful job of ministry, but it wasn't long before he had completed his seminary education. He knew that God wanted him to teach, and he had such a brilliant mind. So, without fear or hesitation, they folded up their roots in Colorado and headed to Kentucky where Ken had been accepted in the PhD program.

That brings us to today.
1. Read his statement in the first paragraph.
2. Ken is serving as an evangelism consultant for the North American Mission Board.
3. He just returned from Nevada/Utah and a week of teaching evangelism.
4. Ken and Shawna have two growing boys.
5. He is serving as the interim Executive Director of a Baptist association.

Wow, I'm glad I wrote all of this. It reminds me of the greatness of God. I sometimes get some caught up in the small stuff that I forget how God is still in the life-changing business.

WESTERN COLORADO and BAPTISTS

2010-02-03T06:24:00.000-08:00

I had two different contacts today, and both of them helped me to reflect on my years of ministry in western Colorado. Many of my Texas family and friends have a somewhat negative view of that region; they see it as isolated, remote, and probably impoverished. I have discovered that there is no where that is remote and/or isolated. The "center" of the universe is where you as an individual live and love and serve. So western Colorado was and is the "center" of their universe.

I heard today that Eddie Scroggins has died. Eddie was 92 years of age. He and his wife June moved to western Colorado back in the 1950s, and he served as pastor of many small churches in the area over the years. I imagine that even he thought of the area as remote in those days when he arrived from Oklahoma. There were few good roads and much dangerous travel over the mountains. Some of the roads were even dirt; interstates hadn't arrived; and travel was treacherous. Western Colorado became his home, and even though you may not recognize his name, it is well known and loved among Baptists. He raised a wonderful family of seven children, 16 grandchildren, and 11 great-great grandchildren. He started many new churches; he gave his life so that others might hear about Jesus.

In my mind, that is being at the "center" of the universe . . when you are in the "center" of God's will for your life.

I also saw today on Facebook that this is Roger Little's birthday. Roger and his wife LuAnn also now live in Grand Junction, but while my children were young, he served as the Principal at Craig Middle School. He is a tremendous man of integrity whoo had a wonderful Christian influence on my children. He's the type of teacher and administrator that we all desire for our children. He and his family were also wonderful members of our church.

We had a saying about Craig, Colorado. I suggest that yout look up its location on a map if you're unfamiliar with some geography. It was said of Craig . . "that it wasn't the end of the world . . but you could see it from there." We still have many wonderful friends in Craig, and they know for sure that it is not the end of the world but the "center" of the universe. Many of them continue to seek God's will for their lives.

My suggestion is always to find the "center" of your life in Christ.

WORKING WITH AGING ADULTS

2010-02-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

I admire folks who work in nursing homes and retirement centers. Most of them have a deep sense of "call" to do this very difficult work. My mother has lived in these situations for the past twelve years, and I'm always amazed at the depth of commitment and "personal touch" that these individuals give.

This "nursing home" was a new thing for me. Oh, I had read many articles and books about this unknown future, but I had to experience it to fully understand. I didn't realize the many pressures it would place on our lives. I probably didn't comprehend the changes that would occur, not only for my mother, but for me.

For instance, I often found myself angry. I wasn't sure where to direct the anger. Many times I was angry at God. I wondered why God had placed my mother into such a difficult situation. I felt that he could make some better arrangements for her.

I was also angry at the inevitability of death. I understood that it was coming, but just like everyone else, I wanted it to come at a later time.

At other times I was angry at myself. I had a deep feeling of being unable to help. I would also find ways to blame myself for my mother's condition. I knew it wasn't my fault, but I could not help but feel that I was not doing enough to help. I wasn't sure I was visiting her enough; I didn't feel that I was meeting her needs.

It was also easy for me to be angry with the very people who are working to help her fragile life. I had heard many of the horror stories of nursing home workers who said and did inappropriate things. I didn’t want that to happen to my Mother. And then, I realized that they are just humans doing a very difficult job. I am sorry to say that I have found myself saying and doing things to them which were out of line, things that were more than inappropriate.

As a believer in Jesus Christ, I am so glad that I understand forgiveness. It's a day to day need in my life. The scripture says . . "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to heal us from all unrighteousness." That's exactly what I do when I "mess up" with my words and attitudes. I recommend God's type of forgiveness to everyone.

There is no doubt in my mind that Holland Lake Nursing Center is the very best in Weatherford. It always comes out NUMBER ONE in the polls. Every worker offers undying love and support to my 103 year old mother . . and also to me. They go out of their way each day to make this life ending experience as joyful as possible.

I visit my Mother daily, and I see many who have a servant's heart for her. I'm tempted to begin the process of "naming names", but I'm afraid I'll get myself in trouble. So let me just say a huge THANK YOU to all of the staff at Holland Lake Nursing Center. Each one of you is loved and appreciated.

Sam Cotter

I WONDER ABOUT ME

2010-01-25T06:13:00.000-08:00

Most of the political discussions of the world usually evolve around money. The discussions are based on who "has the money" and on who "doesn't have the money".

For instance, I am willing to have every medical test that is available as long as I have the money or the insurance to cover the costs. I really do want to know which disease or malady it is that I possess. If I have the least chance of fixing the problem, I want to identify that problem. So I'll just go to the doctor, get the test, and then work with the medical professionals to find a "cure".

I can do that because I "have the money".

There's a fictional character who lives near me with the same medical symptons that I possess. I'm sure that person wants to understand his malady; he wants a clear understanding of how to fix his problem. He chooses not to go the doctor simply because he cannot afford the tests and diagnosis. He doesn't have the money.

THIS HAS BEEN TRUE THROUGHOUT HISTORY. There have always been the "haves" and the "have nots". Nothing about this fact should surprise us. Even the great God of the universe understands the nature of mankind.

BUT . . here is my question. It constantly invades my heart. I realize this is God's spirit speaking to me about my attitude towards the world. The question is . . what should my attitude towards the "I don't have the money" be?

Most of the time I resond with . . "I've made mine" . . "What have you been doing to get yours?" Then comes along a catastrophe like Haiti, and I am reminded of the great needs of this world. The people of Haiti didn't choose to be born there; they certainly didn't choose to be in the epicenter of a major earthquake. Even modern culture understands this, and the world's peoples do everything possible to relieve the pain and suffering of those people.

I am doing the same even though my little seems so little. I give because God wants me to give.

Maybe I should have that same attitude with the hurt and pain that surrounds me here in my own country. After all, it was God who made it possible for me to "have mine". I believe he intended for me to help others.

(I've read this post several times; I'm not really sure about what I'm trying to say. I just know that I am overwhelmed by my status in this world . . compared with so many others. God, help me to be aware of need . . and to respond to it.)

FACEBOOK FRIENDS TO THE GYM

2010-01-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

My sweet wife RL has never claimed to be athletic. Actually, she has avoided much athletic activity over the years even though she did become a pretty good skier during our Colorado years. She never broke anything while skiing . . even though she has been "lost" on the mountain . . but that's another story.

About a year ago she joined a local gym (FIT NOW) and began to walk, do the elliptical, and exercise on a lot of the equipment. She also joined a class that moves around with balls and weights and rubber bands, etc. Most of the people in the class are of our age group, and RL has thorougly enjoyed the experience. She goes at least three days a week; she has met some wonderful new friends; and she looks goooooood! It's been a great experience for her, and she's been "on my case" to join up. I must admit that I like what its done for her, but I'm not sure that I really need that type of work out.

I've also notice that a lot of my Facebook friends often mention their venture to the local gym. Some seem to go with enthusiasm, and others seem to do it by some type of obligation. So it must be good.

So that brings me to the latest in my life. RL finally talked me into it, and I joined this week. So, for the past five days I have been walking and doing some light weight stuff on some of the equipment. I walked two miles yesterday without much problem. I figured I was off to a good start, that is, until I met Bobby Frysinger. He's one of the trainers, and for some reason, he cornered me. "Why's everybody always picking on me?"

He had me do some things today with my arms that created great pain. I'm writing this right after getting home from the gym. It's probably the last time I'll be able to write for the next few days. I don't think my arms are going to survive the day. And I'm certainly wondering about sleeping with these great slabs of pain.

So, my suggestion to you is this. Go to the gym. Avoid Bobby!

FOOTBALL . . FOOTBALL . . FOOTBALL

2010-01-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

I recently thought about the anticiation and adrenaline flow that I feel when my favorite team is playing an important game. It's a little hard to explain exactly how I feel during these highly "important" times in life. I realize how important most of these games are. . . simply because I can't remember much about the results of the previous year. It just all seems to run together.

But . . back to the issue. Sometimes, while watching what I consider to be an important game, I find myself unable to function very well. I can't sit down. I can't stand up. I can't remain seated. I can't remain standing. My pulse rate seems to be out of control. My breathing is agitated. I'm a mess.

Does any of that sound familiar to you?

I wonder why we get so excited over something that has so little real significance in life. I could make a long list of things that are much more important than football, but I don't have the time. I'd rather watch a football game.

My goal is to focus on the important things in life.

Let me suggest that you stop . . take some time . . and name some of these priorities? When football seems so very important, just stop and recall those priorities in your life. That will be a fun activity!

BEGINNING OR END

2010-01-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

My Son-in-Law, Bryan McAnally, is very definite in saying that the year 2010 is the "end" of the decade . . not the beginning of a new one. He does have a point, even though this is the first time we'll use two decimals instead of one. I remember the discussions and arguments back when 2000 came, and many wanted to wait another year to celebrate a new millenium. We didn't wait. We celebrated, even withouth Y2K calamities, and the new decade began even though celebrated a year early. Now all of the magazines and TV programs are looking back and analyzing the decade. Some are even trying to give it an identifying name.

My wife, RL, is very definite in saying that we are now in the year "Twenty Ten". A lot of people are saying "Two thousand Ten", and I noticed one of those television surveys this week. "What are you going to call the new year?" was the question queried to us by the television announcer. I guess he will announce the winner in the future, and we'll be notified of what to call this and future years. I'm waiting with great anticipation. I need help from these TV personalities.

I'm very definite in saying that a good end starts with a good beginning. So, instead of making any nonsensical resolutions, I think I'll just begin this year with Jesus. It's worked in every decade of the past. I believe He will continue to work in my life from the start to the last.

WHAT WE'VE LOST . . PART 2

2009-12-31T06:05:00.000-08:00

My heart hurts/yearns for revival in our churches. Listen to what Francis Chan says in his book "Forgotten God" while speaking of the Holy Spirit's work in our churches.

"Even our church growth can hapen without Him. Let's be honest: If you combine a charismatic speaker, a talented worship band, and some hip, creative events, people will attend your church. Yet this does not mean that the Holy Spirit of God is actively working and moving in the lives of the people who are coming. It simply means that you have created a space that is appealing enough to draw people in for an hour or two on Sunday.

It certainly does not mean that people walk out of the doors moved to worship and in awe of God. People are more likely to describe the quality of the music or the appeal of the sermon than the One who is the reason people gather for "church" in the first place."

It may be that most of God's people have never really felt the awe or true worship. Many don't realize what has been lost. Many have attended church and done the rituals of the worship hour, but have never fallen before a living God.

A.W. Tozer tells this story. "It is the first Palm Sunday, and here comes Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. The crowds begin to shout "Hosanna! Hosanna!" The old donkey prickes up his eaars. Some in the crowd throw their coats in the road; others spread out palm branches.

'Well!' says the donkey, switching a fly off a mange patch. 'I had no idea they really appreciated me like this! Listen to those hosannas, will you. I must really be something.'

Friends, if anyone comes around after the service saying, 'Wow! That was terrific' They's not actually saying hosanna to you.

All you did was bring Jesus to them."

Pastors . . quit strutting around and showing off.
Church leaders . . quit spending time on politics . . instead of Jesus.
Congregation . . quit applauding a bunch of donkeys.
Begin to give our praise to God.

It's time to fall on our faces . . and worship the God of the universe!

CHARACTERS OF CHRISTMAS

2009-12-26T11:50:00.000-08:00

The birth of Jesus was surrounded by a host of individuals, each of them given an assignment in the proclamation of the coming Savior. Many of them followed God's plan for that wonderful birth, and they are an example to us of the wonder of the God that became man and dwelt among us.

I would have enjoyed being there to see the angels and the shepherds and the wise men? I would have seen Mary and Joseph and Elizabeth all receive the messsage from the angels, and see as each of them responded with great joy. Simeon and Anna and even the King Herod were aware through scripture of the coming Messiah. Even though I was not present for those occasions, I am able to read that wonderful story today in the gospels of Luke and Matthew.

And I am available to be involved as the wonderful story of Jesus continues today.

Spend some time and worship Him today!

PAIN AT CHRISTMAS TIME

2009-12-23T19:00:00.000-08:00

Sin has tremendous power in our lives. Once we fall into the trap of sin, it is impossible to change our ways except through the power of Christ. That is why Jesus came . . to show us the way to salvation.

"Stop It" has been a very popular video recently. (You can find it on YouTube). It is done in the very unasumming style of Bob Newhart as a psychologist. His advice to a woman with a difficult problem is to just . . "STOP IT". He shouts this term over and over again to this somewhat confused patient.

I've been accused of using that same style in my counseling. I probably tend to that style because of the New Testament words which say, " . . let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles."

That scripture from Hebrews 12:1 tells me that the pain of this world is caused by the things we do . . and the things we say . . and the lives we live. We've got to get rid of the cause. That can happen when Christ becomes the source of our life.

I work part time as a Chaplain in three different businesses. I have the oppportunity of spending one-on-one time with people from all walks of live, and I see that many, if not most of them, are in great pain. There is the pain of broken relatinships, of family, of drugs and alcohol, and of issues too numerous to even mention. Every one of these individuals is seeking a relief to their pain, yet many have never found it in a personal relationship with Christ. That is exactly what makes this job so wonderful. I get to tell many of them about Christ.

Most of our society recognizes that Jesus came at Christmas.
Now we have the opportunity of telling them why Jesus came at Christmas.

MY THEOLOGY EXPLAINS MY LIFE

2009-12-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

It took me a long time to figure out my theology of life. I was very impacted as a young man by many great prachers but mainly by evangelist Fred Cherry from Oklahoma. Fred had begun his adult life as a civil engineer, but God got a deep hold on him. He was a wonderful preacher of the word of God.
Fred had some wonderful characteristics. First of all, he was the strongest evangelist, both personal and from the pulpit, that I have ever known. I've been around some fine men with the gift of evangelism, but I've never met anyone like Fred. For example, he would spend much of his time while in our town on the telephone. He would go down the list of names in the phone book; he would call the number and share the gospel with whatever person answered. He would also stop anyone on the street to ask them vital questions about their souls and eternity. He didn't waste any time doing the unnecessary. He was busy sharing Christ.
Fred and his wife had 12 children. He didn't have any insurance; he didn't have birth control; and yet, many of his children were able to attend college and go on to wonderful Christian lives. Most of them, including some whose names you would know, continue to serve the Lord today.
I have many of his messages on tape, and I still listen to them as he expounds the scripture. He was very much "to the point". I pray that I can preach with his clarity.
Fred Cherry was the greatest personal evangelist I ever met. He was also the strongest Calvinist that I have ever met. He believed that God was in control. He didn't have to "sweat it" about people being saved. He presented God's plan to them, and then he left the work of salvation to the Holy Spirit. That's actually very biblical. It's God work. We are to be faithful. Much of what we do in church today seems to be secondary and insignificant. Many of us in the church believe in grace, but we overework ourselves keeping the organization up and running. We seem to think that salvation is from God, but the local church is our responsibility.
I do know that I can work myself to a frazzle . . I think that's a word . . and yet, in the end, I must trust God to do His work of salvation and ministry in the local church. I've been in the ministry for over 50 years, and it's been my privilege to see thousands of lives changed by the power of the gospel. I really didn't "save" any of them. That was God's work. I really didn't make the church grow and mature. That was God's work. I'm just happpy that I've been able to experience the joy of those changed lives and changed churches.
Christmas reminds us that the "good news" is to any who hear it . . and receive it. You have that opportunity today.

MY FAMILY AND MISSIONS

2009-12-18T14:42:00.000-08:00

I visited today with an old friend who shared a picture from my past. It really reminds me of a lot of pictures that have been taken over the years while members of my family are shown constructing a church. That's much of my personal Christian history. We were always "building" another new church.

I don't think I ever really talked with my parents about "why" they enjoyed starting and building churches. I've thought a a lot about it, and I really believe it must have started in California. My parents headed to California at the beginning of World War II so my Dad could work in a defense factory in Long Beach. Since he was too old to join the army, it was just the correct thing to do. He wanted to help in the war effort, and California offered that great adventure.

One thing it didn't offer were Southern Baptist churches. My parents had to look for a good church, and they found one in Calvary Baptist Church of Long Beach, an American Baptist Church where I was saved in 1944. They arrived back in Texas following the war, and I believe they always remembered the lack of churches in California. So they gave a lot of energy to starting and building new ones.

This picture was taken in 1950 when First Baptist Church of Weatherford built the new Eureka Baptist Church. My family later helped in 1955 to begin Ball Street Baptist Church, now Community Baptist in Weatherford. And we were an important part of the new Emmanuel Baptist Church in Weatherford in 1957.

My Dad and Mother began to travel all over the United States helping to build new churches, and they spent many years in retirement as a part of the Texas Baptist Men building group. My brother Gene and his wife Geraldine followed in their steps, and they spent many weeks each year finding a new spot to work. Both of those families literally wore out their travel trailers in serving the Lord.

If you'll notice in the picture, I seem to be doing a lot of supervising. That was obviously my early training for a lot of job sites. If you don't believe it, just ask some of the people who worked with me over the years.

WHAT'S A FUNERAL ALL ABOUT?

2009-11-21T07:02:00.000-08:00

I attended a funeral many years ago. My elderly uncle mentioned that it was the fourth funeral of the week for him. I thought that statement somewhat funny until I arrived at the age of 70. Funerals are now something of a social event in small town Texas.
I preached the funeral message for a 74 year old woman this past week who had been through 8 long years of physical pain and suffering. She had remained very faithful throughout her ordeal, and her funeral service was a testimony to God's goodness. That's what it really is all about. The question is . . how are we going to die?
We're now in the great health care debate. I admit up front that I want the best possible health care than I can receive. I also admit that the idea of living a few extra years right now is a good one. I just don't know how many extra years I want or need.
That brings up my mother, Birdie Idell Low Cotter. Bryan posted her picture last week on Facebook, and he received so many wonderful comments from friends and family. This is what she looks like . . if you missed the other picture. It's only 2 more months until she will be 103. I not sure she'll make that goal, but she has surely fooled us over the past few months. I visit her each day, and she always surprises me with her ability to recognize and communicate even though she can speak with a discernable voice.
I don't think Birdie is really interested in health care. She is interested in funerals and in heaven. Maybe that's where I should put more of my emphasis in life. It surely makes sense to me . . and to God.

A THEOLOGY OF WORSHIP

2009-10-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

I didn't create the term. It's a part of Ann Ortlands classic book Up with Worship where her husband Ray says that a certain pastor doesn't have a "theology of worship." That idea has captured my heart for many years.

Ruth Lynn and I visit a lot of churches. Often I am asked to serve as a supply preacher; we visited hundreds of churches as a denominational worker; and I've led dozens of conferences on "worship". I am thankful that God has given me some spiritual insight into worship, and many of our churches are in trouble.

It is very common for the average church to focus on the wrong things. Churches do a lot of "things", and many of these things are good. But they are not the most important thing.

God created man to have fellowlship with Him. Our very purpose is to worship Him. So we need to spend more time thinking about him. We need to honor Him.

The hour or more that we use on Sundays should focus on worship. We often spend an excessive amount of time making announcements, shaking hands, and doing the secondary when the primary issue is given second place.

Asaph, the writer of Psalm 73, said it this way:
1 God is indeed good to Israel, to the pure in heart. 2 But as for me, my feet almost slipped; my steps nearly went astray. 17 until I entered God’s sanctuary. Then I understood their destiny. Psalms 73:1-2,17 (HCSB)

I pray that God will give me a theology of worship!

WHAT WE'VE LOST

2009-10-19T18:51:00.000-07:00

New church buildings . . new outreach ministries . . new ways of reaching people . . change. I've heard these phrases and ideas over the years; I'm probably even used many of them while preaching or leading conferences.

I'm a part of a denomination that is in decline. Oh, we put on a good face and some good numbers. But the truth is this . . we are not experiencing the power of God at work in our churches. We know how to "do church" and how to appear to be successful. BUT . . it is the church at play.

Charles Nuckolls said, "People feel they want something they've lost, and they don't remember what it is they've lost."

What is it that we've lost?

Is there such energy and excitement in your worship that people can't wait to meet together as the body of Christ? That's what we've lost!

When is the last time the altar of your church was filled with people crying out to God for his outpouring? That's what we've lost!

When was the last time that your church felt such unity and love that there was criticism and discord among the people? That's what we've lost!

When was the last time the Holy Spirit took over the worship hour, and no one even cared about a time schedule? That's what we've lost!

Is the bond of love so strong that every age group in the church wants to be with every other age group in the church? That's what we've lost.

As I've aged, I have learned one important thing. It doesn't make any difference how good we look or how good the church looks. The thing that is most important is "our" relationship with Christ. The "our" relationship is the church body. It's all of us, working together.
That's what we've lost.

I'M NOT VERY BRIGHT

2009-10-14T17:24:00.000-07:00

If you look at my posts back in July and August, you notice one theme. I did not expect my 102 year old Mother who is on hospice care to survive to October 14. She was just so very weak and seemingly near death.

Was I ever wrong.

Ruth Lynn and I visited with her today. Her bed was cranked up, and she smiled at us when we entered the room. We've known that something was going on in her brain in the background, but she has been unable to talk for any extended period of time. She said "Morning" to us without any suggestion from us. She was very bright and alert, but she still could not communicate except with her eyes and facial expression. It was just a normal day of talking with her or "at" her.

Ruth Lynn then asked if she could write anything. Since I visit with her each day, I had the usual answer. No. I had actually given someone that answer just last week. The only problem with my answer was that we had never really tried to let her write.

So I got a pad and pen. Ruth Lynn held it very tightly as she grasped the pen with her one good hand, her left "writing" hand. Ruth Lynn asked her a question, and she clearly wrote down the answer. It was "Ruth" in response to Ruth Lynn's question of who she was . . as Ruth Lynn pointed to herself.

Ruth Lynn then called me over as she was yelling, and we all had a wonderful laugh, including Mammaw, at her ability not only to think but to write something.

We often wonder how much Mammaw really comprehends. Is she responding to us or just to our physical touch. We know the answer now. She's thinking very clearly, and she wants to talk with us about it.

So, beginning tomorrow, we're going to let her write. I may even post a picture of the author in the coming days.

God is still at work in Birdie Idell Low Cotter's life.

IDENTIFYING A GRAVE

2009-09-01T18:48:00.000-07:00

Many people have been buried over the years in obscure locations. Many will never be found, but it is always enjoyable to locate and identify graves. Many of you remember the story of my chance to find and identify my Grandmother's grave in Vernon, Texas just a few years ago.

We live in Parker County, Texas, and there are dozens of cemeteries, many with unidentified graves.

My brother, Gene, and I just returned from a grave search in Leslie, Arkansas. Gene was born there in 1932, and another brother, Darrell Don died at birth there in 1934. My Dad carved on a small stone the inscription "Infant of Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Cotter - 1934". It has been in the same small plot since that time, and Gene and I made a special journey to that very sacred spot.

We were not even sure that the stone would still be standing as it had been about 30 years since we had visited the site. We were also not sure we'd be able to find it among the many old and broken stones. We weren't even sure whether the cemetery would be overgrown and inaccessible. So we took along plenty of tools inlcuding a weedeater, pruning shears, hoes, shovels, and other ncessary deforesting items.

We had a wonderful surprise.

The cemetery has been enlarged and modernized, and the entrance gate is in a different location. It is, my the way, in the beautiful mountains of northern Arkansas. It is a wonderful setting for a cemetery.

We walked directly to the marker. It was right where my Dad had placed it in the ground 75 years ago. It still stood tall and proud with lots of moss on the back side. It was a beautiful sight.

Gene and I had taken along some supplies if we needed to lay the stone on its side. We had plans to possibly pour a small concrete slab as a support for the stone. All of those plans were discarded when we saw how strong the stone stood in the ground. Our Dad put it there; we're not moving it.

We did add another stone to the grave. It is an explanation of the person buried there. It says, "Darrell Don Cotter, Born and Died September 24, 1934, Original Stone Carved by Father, Clifford Victor Cotter". I also called the treasurer of the cemetery association and asked them to add Darrell's name to their website information.

Almost everyone who ever knew anything or had heard anything about Darrell Don is now gone. It really wouldn't make much difference if we didn't add the new marker. It did make a difference to Gene and me in our later years of life.

It has often been suggested that if Darrell Don had survived and lived, things would have been different. I may have never been born as my Dad and Mom raised two boys during the depression years. They might not have had a third boy.

So . . what we did the past couple of days is very important to me. It's a way for me to honor an unknown brother; it's a way for me to thank God for my own life. It's a way to recognize the importance of our daily walk with God.

We had a fun trip to Arkansas. If you're ever in Leslie, Arkansas, be sure to look up the grave of Darrell Don Cotter.

FUN AT THE NURSING HOME

2009-08-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Many people don't realize how much fun people have in a nusrsing home.

My mother had a stroke just about 8 weeks ago, and she can hardly communicate. We do get some smiles and grins and squeezing of the fingers along the way. That, in itself, is great joy to us. We had an especially fun event that happened yesterday and today.

One of the aides often comes to her weekend job with her fingernails painted some crazy color. We've talked about it before, and I've discovered that her 6 year old daughter often picks out which color her mother will wear. It was, in my view, an ugly green . . and it was not a pretty sight!

She was showing her chartreuse fingernails to mother yesterday, and she asked my permission to paint mother's nails. Well, today when RL and I showed up to visit, we were met by three of the workers with big grins on their faces. We went in to see mother only to discover all of her nails painted chartreuse. Every one of the workers kidded mother about the color, and she opently laughed out loud when we spoke about it. She was obviously having a fun time with us and with the workers.

Several people came into her room to look and laugh. It was fun at the nursing home.

I'll never really understand what mother comprehends through these visits. I just know she was laughing and having fun. That's a good thing when you've suffered a stroke at 102.

MY MOTHER IS DYING

2009-07-28T08:20:00.001-07:00

An opinion column in today's Fort Worth Star Telegram entitled "Clinging to a life that one can barely call a life anymore" reminded me of societies attitude about death. This is my answer to that editorial, and I use some of the writer's phrases and words.

MY MOTHER IS DYING

My mother is dying. She could die today, tomorrow, or perhaps next week. No one, including her hospice care, knows just when she will die, but her death is imminent and, having been at her beside each day for the past several weeks, I can testify that her death is a wonderful experience.

Yes, there are certainly deaths far more gruesome, but her slow death in Holland Lake Nursing Center in Weatherford is filled with daily joys. She has shared a room with an Alzheimer’s patient for the past 12 months, and there has been little/no communication between the two of them. As I think of human life, this seems to be an undignified way to end a wonderful life. So I’ve been thinking about life and death and its meaning more than ever in the recent weeks.

My mother has been preparing for her death for the past 102 years. She was a vibrant younger woman with children and grandchildren and wonderful memories. She has suffered through many of the normal ailments of life, from cancer to strokes to her now fetal position in a bed. She has been in and out of emergency rooms and hospitals and assisted living homes and nursing homes, but she is now under the care of a loving hospice organization. This just affirms the fact that her life on this earth will end very soon.

My mother recognizes that she is dying. We’ve talked about it together, and she answers me often with that small smile of recognition. She gives me that smile when we speak about her past, about her husband who has been dead for 22 years, about her wonderful childhood, about her loving family, and most of all, about her faith. Almost every day I sing hymns to her; I speak to her about heaven and its wonderful promises. Often tears will form in her eyes as she looks forward to the joys of eternity. And she tries so very hard to form the words “I love you” as I say them to her.

I have a question. What is mother comprehending as we spend time together. Does she really know what I’m saying? Is she seeing a small glimpse of heaven right now? Is her mind still working, and she just can’t get the words out? Every one of these difficult questions is puzzling, but these unanswered questions bring joy to me as I visit with her.

Physical death is a part of life. She understands that. I understand it. She grandchildren and great grandchildren, who have visited with her in these final days of her life, understand it. She is now showing us how to die. Early in life she taught us the truth that we now understand. It is that the joy of eternal life comes to all of us through faith in Jesus Christ.

I wouldn’t take anything for this wonderful experience. Each day I’m growing more in my faith as I wait patiently for God to take her to glory.

Mother, I love you!

THE KING

2009-06-30T06:52:00.000-07:00

I don't usually pass on other blogs on my blog, but I must share this one. It came to me from Bryan McAnally.

Elvis Presley, the King of Rock, is dead.
James Brown, the King of Soul, is dead.
Kurt Cobain, the King of Grunge, is dead.
And now Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, is dead.
But Jesus Christ, the King of Kings, is alive forevermore. Let's tell people that, so they too can live forever.
Jesus said, "I am he who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death" (Revelation 1:18 NKJV).

Greg Laurie blog 6-30-09

WE CAN'T BE THAT OLD

2009-06-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm always fascinated how my mother, age 102, can speak about other "old" people, people she sees as old. That same malady has struck me recently. For instance, there is no way that Ruth Lynn and I can be celebrating our 48th anniversary today. I must be talking about some "old" couple.

I started dating RL when she was 16 and I was 17. It's not too hard to figure out how many years it has been. As I look at my beautiful wife, she looks just the same. She is still the wonderful teenager that I married in 1961.

There are some things that have changed. First of all, she has taken on a lot of my idiosyncrasies. And I also have some of hers. That's not good, but that's what 48 years will do to you. In the second place, we've also learned a lot of wonderful things from each other. The main thing we've learned is how to live a life for our Savior. That is really the fun part.

June 24th was also RL's parents anniversary, and both of them are now gone. Today is also Bryan and Kelli's 14th. Today is also Terry and Sandy Holsinger's 48th. We didn't know them till much later, but they were married about one hour ahead of RL and me. We usually celebrate together, and tonight we'll meet them at the Cracker Barrell to laugh and remembetr.

To Ruth Lynn . . . Happy Anniversary Sweetheart. I hope we can keep dancing for a long time.

HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO CLIFFORD VICTOR

2009-06-19T08:17:00.000-07:00

Every person needs a loving father. That is why I have spent a lifetime telling people about our loving heavenly father. The Biblical example was given to us for a specific purpose. We are to use God's example as we becoming earthly fathers.

My Dad has been gone for 22 years; that's hard to believe because I can still see and feel his wonderful Christian leadership. He came from very humble beginnings, the first son and third child of 14 children. I really can't describe the family as "poor"; the best word would be "poooooooor".

There must have been something extra special about my grand father. He raised a tremendously godly and productive family, and he passed those characteristics along to my Dad.

My Dad could do anything, or he was willing to try to do anything. He married my Mother at the beginning of the Great Depression, and he had to do anything and everything just to make a living. He built a stone fence in northern Arkansas in the early 1930's after a man asked him if he could do the job. His answer was yes even though he had never done any stone work in his life. He must have done a good job because the wall is still standing.

I remember my Dad as a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher and Superintendent at First Baptist Church of Weatherford, Texas. He once taught a teenage boys class, and I often went with them on outings. He loved those boys. He had seven younger brothers of his own, and he knew how to deal with them.

He was also a leader in starting three new churches in Weatherford, Texas, and he helped to build literally dozens of churches all over the United States. I can't think of my Dad without seeing him with a hammer in his hand. The picture is one I gave to him as a gift at his retirement.

As a 70 year old man, I would really enjoy sitting today and talking with Dad. We had a great relationship before his death, but there are a lot of questions I'd like to ask him. That is just part of life. It is really over before many of us learn how to live it.

Anyway, Happy Father's Day Dad. Thank you for a life well lived and for a tremendous Christian influence.

Now, to all of my relatives who are fathers. Let me suggest that you look around and find a good Christian example. Then pass it on to your children. That's the way to have a really Happy Father's Day.

CHASING THE DRUM

2009-06-13T07:58:00.001-07:00

The statement on the drum is "Age 12 years . . Pearl Clabaugh . . Sevierville, Tennessee". That's not much information, but I've found some clues.

There is a tremendously long list of Clabaughs on-line, but the only Pearl than I can find was born in 1908. She was the daughter of Samuel H. Clabaugh and Mary Jane Cotter Clabaugh. There is the connection. Her mother was a Cotter.

Now I'm off to the larger search. I have not yet figured out how Mary Jane was related to me. I've tracked her daughter Pearl (really Mattie Pearl) to 1920. She would have been 12 years old at that time. That was just about the time she wrote on the drum, and her name and parent's names appear in the 1920 census in Sevier County, Tennessee.

I can't find her name in any records after 1920, and I still don't know how the drum with her name came to Texas.

If you have any ideas, I'd appreciate a contact. The detective work will continue.

SURPRISE . . SURPRISE . . SURPRISE

2009-06-10T14:11:00.001-07:00

In the famous words of Gomer Pyle, are you surprised?
Donald Trump finally did it. He fired Miss California. She wouldn't say and do the things she was told.
Christians, do you understand the attack?
Do you understand that it is time to say and do the correct thing?
It is time to quit playing the church game.
It is time for Christians who stand tall for God's kingdom.
My congratulations go to Carrie Prejean.

TENNESSEE TO TEXAS WITH THE DRUM

2009-06-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

My Great Grandfather, George Wray Cotter, moved his wife and 10 children to Texas in 1890. They came from the hills of Sevier County, Tennessee. George had one desire for his growing family, and that was to find wives and husbands for his many children. Wears Valley Tennessee didn't offer many opportunties outside of the family bloodline. So the long journey to a new land and new opportunities was begun on a very long train ride.

As a side story to the drum, the first child born in Texas after the move to this new land was Ethel Texas Cotter. She is the only person I've ever known with that name. And Ethel Texas, who was 15 at the time of my father's birth, gave him the name of Clifford Victor Cotter. So I have a close contact and love for Ethel Texas.

Travel during that time was not easy, and it was probably not practical to take all of the family goods. Much was possibly sold or given away as preparations were made for the departure. I imagine that only the most valuable and most loved items were loaded for the journey. One of the valuables brought to Texas was an old drum that had been part of the history of the War Between the States.

My Great Grandfather had been a 12 year old drummer boy during the final months of the war, and he had saved the drum as a remembrance of that historic experience. The drum had probably been used in Wears Valley to "talk" with the neighbors throughout the hollow. This "family treasure" was probably acknowledged with some reverance. I can just hear George telling his entire family that . . "the drum is going to Texas."

My Grandfather, William Reuben Cotter, was the oldest son in the family. I don't know for sure, but I assume that the drum was passed along to him before or at the death of his father in 1928. My Grandfather moved to many locations over the years, but the drum always was taken to the new home. I first remember the drum hanging in the barn at my Grandparent's house in Littlefield, Texas. Many of the children and grandchildren often played with the drum.

Howard Lee Cotter, the 13th child of 14 children in the family, now has the drum in his possession. He is now 81 years of age, and the drum will soon pass on to his grandson Quade Crawford. I gave Quade, now 15 years of age, the "be sure to take good care of it" and "you'll realize its value in the years to come" speech.

At a recent family reunion, we carefully examined the drum for some clues to its history. We found some writting on it that no one in the family every remembers. It says . . "12 year old . . Pearl Clabaugh . . Sevierville, Tennessee." No, we don't know what that means, but we're beginning some detective work. We'd love to have some more definite information on this wonderful family relic.

WHO ARE THE FOREIGNERS?

2009-05-19T07:19:00.000-07:00

My uncle Mike (M.J.) Cotter, a survivor of Pearl Harbor and a World War II veternan, passed away in 2008. He had many stories to tell of those horible days on board the USS Maryland in the Sout Pacific. His attitude about the Japanese and their horrific atrocities was certainly justified. He had lived and survived that terrible time in history.

M.J. would probably never own a "foreign" made car such as the Tennessee built Honda that I drive. I can understand that.

Many people are still fighting the cause of "buying American". We are in "desperate times" according to many, and we've got to protect our own interests. I do believe we are in desperate times, but it is desperation caused by our lack of faith in Christ. We need revival in the hearts of Christians.

I received an email today which closed by saying, "Stop buying from China". The writer used many illustrations of how to study labels and purchase only those things made in our country. The article had been sent to me and distributed by people who serve under the name of Christ. I'm really not sure that the writer of the email claims to be a Christian, but it had been passed on to me as "gospel."

I think of Christ saying to us, "Go ye therefore . . into all the world and preach the gospel." I can never imagine that he would say, " . . but don't buy anything from them."

I've often fallen into the trap of believing that being a Christian is the same as being an American. Since I live in a very "churched" area of America, I somehow believe that everyone is just like me. They need to act like a Christian. They need to respond politically as a Christian. But then I remember that it is just not so. They cannot nor will not act like Christians because Christ has not entered and changed their hearts and lives. The Christian church is growing more in China today than in any other part of the world.

We as believers must see the lost individual as our concern. The friends that I have who serve as missionaries in foreign countries have gone there to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. They have not gone there to change the political or economic world. That will happen as Christ enters new hearts.

If we as Christians say, "Don't buy from China", I feel that we are really saying, "Don't buy from China . . just let them go to hell. They are not one of us." These words would not come from the mouth of Christ. So, maybe we as Christians should rethink our position.

REMEMBER YOUR GRADUATION?

2009-05-17T06:11:00.000-07:00

Graduations and weddings are very much alike. There is a long period of planning and preparation and organization, and then the event is finished and done in a whirl of activity. The speaker at the event may seem to be long-winded, and the presentation of the diplomas may go on for an excessive amout of time, but when it is over, there is a sigh of relief.

Ruth Lynn and I have a long time family story about such an event. The truth is that I laugh at her a lot because she doesn't really remember her gradution from North Texas State. We were to be married about four weeks later, and most of her thoughts and planning were on that wedding. The graduation was just a necessary step in the process.

We attended the graduation fo our grand daughter, Lynnlee Hedstrom, from Texas Tech this past weekend. Lynnlee will soon begin a new job as a Registered Nurse at University Hospital in Lubbock. We, like many grand parents, are very proud of her and her accomlishments.

The Nursing school at Texas Tech is named for the Governor's wife. She gave the Commencement address, and said some very encouraging words to the 500+ graduates of PHDs, MDs, BS, Masters Degrees, etc. She made the usual comments with thanks to the families. She told the group that they were entering the medical community at a very important time in the life of America. It was encouraging.

The Chancellor and the President also spoke. They made a lot of self congragulatory statements. They told of the world that awaited the graduates. The program lasted for about 2 1/2 hours. We were all ready to charge out of the basketball stadium to go and conquer the world.

There was only one thing missing.

There was not one mention to the graduates of the existence of something bigger than themseves. There was no word of faith. There was no mention of God and his leadership.

How sad.

The number one thing that this group needed to hear was never even mentioned. Every speaker steered away from using the word God . . or higher power . . or faith . . etc. etc. Our lives are so compartmentalized, and I don't imagine many of the graduates even noticed this omission. After all, this talk of God's leadership in our lives is just a church thing. It's secondary. It really doesn't count for much in the reality of life.

To Lynnlee . . and all of you other graduates. Let me offer some advice from my years of experience. The most important thing in your life is your relationship and confidence in God. Don't jump into your new job and put God on the back shelf. Begin now to trust Him for leadership. You may now know exactly how, but as you begin the process, you'll learn.

God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.

OH DONALD, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU

2009-05-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

I stand in awe and wonder at the gracious and forgiving spirit that comes from the mouth of Donald Trump. He is so magnanimous in his forgiving and caring spirit. He has taken the very uncivil words of a young lady who knows nothing of being politically correct, and he has given her his kind and loving words of support. Donald . . thank you.

I just wonder why it took so long for The Donald to give his official okay for Miss California. I certainly feel that he was sticking his finger into the air to test the wind currents. Why didn't he step forward immediately to tell the homosexual blogger to sit down and shut up. After all, it was Donald Trump who hired the outspoken critic of Christian values. He had read the blogs and he understood the viciousness of the attacks on those values.

If you are standing back and admiring Donald Trump for his recent actions, stop it. Everything that he has done has been done for the purpose of raising ratings on his many television productions. His has become one of the strongest production companies in the business. I, for one, will not be watching those programs.
But for Carrie Prejean, I give her my utmost admiration. Every time she has opened her mouth, it has been for the purpose of praising God. Most of you know that I have questioned her participation in what I consider to be godless pageants, but I thank the Lord that she continues to give a godly testimony.

Her stock has risen. I pray that her testimony over the coming years will remain strong. There's a huge world out there who will watching and hoping for her downfall.

As Christians, let's pray and support her in this journey.

MOTHER'S DAY 2009

2009-05-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

I first fell in love with my sweetheart, the future mother of our three children, when she was a beautiful 16 year old teenager. God gave her to me when I was so very young and immature. Like most teenage boys, I was more driven by my harmones than I was by any common sense. But God had a way of preparing both of us for our 47 1/2 years of marriage.

Ruth Lynn has been a fantastic mother to our family. She has become the steady Christian influence to the family over the years. Her love of her family has only been surpassed by her love for her Lord. Her daily attitude has been to place her complete confidence and trust in God.

She's followed me to a lots of places, not because she always wanted to make the journey. She's followed because she wanted to be in the center of God's will. It was a trip that we wanted to make together. Wow, it has been fun.

Whenever her children speak of their mother, they all speak of her faithfulness. That is a wonderful testimony.

Happy Mothers Day to the best mother I've ever known - to my sweetheart - to my beautiful bride - to beautiful Ruth Lynn. I love you more than ever.

THE BEAUTY QUEEN

2009-04-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

I remember many years ago when we had a "Miss Texas" visit our church to give her testimony. I had a problem with it about 40 years ago, and I still a question about what that "testimony" meant to our church and our community.

I've personally known some young ladies who have been involved in pageants, and I've known literally thousands who were not born with the looks needed to make it in the business. I don't question the fact that the participants work hard at the job, but I realize that they must have some great "God given" looks to become winners. The girls have to be a certain size with a certain look and have the desire to let everyone see it all.

I have, for many years, questioned Christian parents who press their daughters into participation in these events. I understand that "talent" is often discussed, but the major portion of the contest is based on the looks of the young lady. She must show doctor inserted cleavage, dress prevocatively, and be willing to act seductively.

The Bible admonition is that we are "in the world" but not "of the world." Everyone of us face this same delimma. We are to be salt and light; we are to stand apart from this world. We are to be "different" so the world can see that difference. We must make the decision to not act like the rest of this world.

I felt so sorry when I heard the story of Miss California in the recent Miss USA Contest. She has spent her entire life getting ready for this event; she has worshipped the whole beauty contestant idea.

Then she tried to be the Christian in an atmosphere that was anything but Christian. The gay judge who asked her the question and who then denigrated her for her answer is of this world. He didn't want a Christian answer. He didn't think of Miss California as a representative of Christ. When she gave a Christian answer, he acted just like a unbeliever is trained to answer. His only recourse was to attack.

Miss California has responded with a strong Christian testimony; she has not be vendictive. She has actually come across as the "victor" in this battle of cultures. We've seen more of her picture than of the actual winner. She is now the national spokesperson for the traditional family.

All of this aside . . the question is this. "Do the activities that are required of a participant in the contest do anything that glorifies Christ and brings glory to the Lord of the universe?" Or are the activities those of the carnal world? I think the later is true. Christian young ladies . . be careful. Miss California may be spokesperson for traditional Christian values, but she has gained that podium by sacrificing many of those values.

STUMP

2009-04-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

I just returned from speaking at a Senior Adult Retreat for the folks at First Baptist Church of New Branfels, Texas. They have an absolutely wonderful leader in Billy Barnes and his wife Judy. They are two of the finest I have ever seen. This is my third retreat with them, and RL and I are willing to go again . . anytime.

The theme of the retreat was UNITY, and I began my four sessions with Stump as our role model. After all, at 10 years of age (that's 70 in adult years), we were all able to identify with Stump and his wonderful win at the Westminister Dog Show.

A television commentator said following the show that a good Sussex Spaniel should be LOW, LONG, and LEVEL. I don't know of any better description of a godly senior adult than those words. So I just used that as my outline for the first session, and we used scripture to talk about senior adults.

I had a lot of good responses from the folks. Some got the analagy right off. There were some who thought it was not spiritual enough. Others thought I was calling them a dog.

But we all learned some wonderful life lessons.

The 57 people at the retreat were mostly over 70 years of age, and there were none of them who felt a day over 35. They all thought they could win "Best of Show". That's why it's fun to hang out with senior adults.

INTERESTED IN TEXAS HISTORY?

2009-04-06T07:46:00.000-07:00

I've become more and more a fan of Texas history over the past few years. We Texans have always had a reputation that is overly "Texan", and we often deserve the criticism that we receive because of that "Texan" thing. After all, Texas was an indepedent nation prior to becoming a state in the U.S., and we often want to talk about that aspect of our history.

We went down to Goliad this past weekend for their annual reenactment of that historical event. There had already been many Texian deaths in late 1835 and early 1836 at Refugio, Concepcion, and the Alamo, but the greatest number of deaths occured at Goliad on March 27, 1836. It is hard for us to really understand all of the political elements that were happening, but many Texians gave their lives for freedom from the cruel Mexican leadership under Santa Anna.

The reenactors did a wonderful job of telling the story, and there were several thousand people present to learn more about this important part of Texas history. I would encourage anyone to attend this annual event at Presidio La Bahia. The people of Goliad were welcoming and gracious to us. It was a wonderful weekend.

Someone asked me why I was so excited about the killiing and warfare that was represented. I had to stop and say that it wasn't the cannons and guns and killings. I was there to celebrate freedom. Gonzales and Goliad and the Alamo were just the starting points for most of the western United States. These people understood freedom, and many gave their lives for the very freedom that we enjoy today.

This is the time for you and me . . to stand for freedom.

SYDNEY PORTIS - WMU

2009-04-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of my dear friends in Colorado, Sydney Portis, went home to be with the Lord yesterday.

Sydney and I attended Southwestern Seminary together back in the early 60s, and Sydney served as the Women's Missionary Union Director in Colorado from 1971 through 1998. She was the model of leadership among women. It was a joy for me to work alongside her for 9 years.

Sydney lived very close to Ruth Lynn and me in Centennial, Colorado, and we spent some wonderful time with her. She never married and has no surviving family . . that is except for the thousands of people in Colorado who loved her. She gave her life in ministry in that wonderful state.

Sydney was a "pack rat", and I say that with admiration. There was not a single book or poster or camp item or anything that she did not "keep". I spent many hours helping her to get our shared storage space organized and functioning. She wouldn't let me throw away anything, but I would often slip something out without her knowledge. She took up all of the space in what is now the library for Golden Gate Seminary.

Her declining health over the years forced her into a retirement home, but her sweet Christian spirit has permeated the place. Her dear young friend, Ty McCarty, has done more than could ever be expected. He has stood by her side and handled so many decisions. Thank you Ty for your faithfulness.

"O, may all who come behind us find us faithful."

Sydney Portis lived a life of faithfulness and service.

SENIOR ADULTS KNOW

2009-03-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

I'm on the email list for many senior adults, and many of my Facebook friends are senior adults. It could be that, as a 70 year old man, most of my friends fall into that classification.

Senior adults are fun people. Most of them have lived long enough and faithfully enough to "know the ropes." You can't really fool a senior adult very easily; they've all been through it before. This isn't their first rodeo.

I wish that I, as a church leader in the past, would have had a better understanding of senior adults. If I were a Pastor today, I would ask for and listen to the ideas from this age group. I would call on them regularly for advice and insight. I would personally enlist them to pray for me and to mentor my children. I would reach out to them at every opportunity. I'd make friends of every senior adult in the church.

I attended a music conference once and heard a story from the presenter. He told of a county seat First Baptist Church in Mississippi where the music director wanted to do a new thing, a large Christmas pageant. It had never been done before, and he wanted to do the entire thing. He dreamed of a large choir in Biblical costumes, of live animals in the scenes, and of a tremendous impact on the community.

But he wasn't sure how the older people (senior adults) would respond.

His pastor suggested that he approach one of the older women in the church to discuss his proposal. As in all churches, she was the leader that everyone looked to for approval.

So the music director went to her house for tea, and after a period of time, he opened up the discussion. She listened intently as he discribed the plans, and he ended the conversation with the most delicate issue of all. He would also like to use live chickens and sheep and a donkey inside the church sanctuary. Did she think that would be acceptable.

The woman thought for a little while and then answered, "Well, this won't be the first time I've every seen a jackass walk down the aisle." He obviously had her approval.

Pastors and church leaders . . listen to your senior adults. They are not as "out of it" as you may think.

ANCESTORS - GOOD AND BAD

2009-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a lot of work on Ancestry.com recently, learning about my familly. This is an area where I've never really had any interest in the past, but it has proven to be a lot of fun.
There is one spot on the website where you can find famous people who are distantly related. I don't want to brag, but I'm in some pretty fancy circles. I have some presidents, actors, etc. who are distant cousins. I also have some bank robbers, desperados, and other assorted relatives that I'd rather not tell you about. I guess that is true for most of us. There is always a ghost in the closet.
It brings to mind this question. Are we responsible for the actions of our ancestors or are we only accountable for our own actions. This isn't just a family question. It is a question of theology. What does God have to say about our actions? It's very simple; we are answerable to God.
I know a lot of names of family members from the past, but I don't really know much about their lives. Were they people who expressed love? Did they have a faith life? Were they forgiving in their actions? Did they seek unity in everything they did?
I'm very sorry to say that RL and I have found slave owners, crooks, and all "sorts" in our family ancestry. I don't know if any of them ever had a personal relationship with Christ. But . . that doesn't mean that I can't have that relationship . . that salvation in Christ.
If someone reads in the future what I'm writing today, I want them to know that my life revolved around God's plans for me. My life was based on my trust in God.
That's what my descendents need to know.

HOW EXCITED ARE YOU?

2009-03-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Remember this. Today's society is built on money. People's lives are judged by how much money we can acquire. The winner is the one who has the most of it at the end. The winner is the one who has plenty of money to live this life.

SO . . whenever AIG misuses what we consider to be our money, it is very alarming to us. Millions of dollars is a lot of money. It is hard to describe how many emails I have received concerning efforts we need to make to solve this problem. It goes all the way from firing someone, to killing someone, to using our church pulpits to denigrate those involved.

AND . . I receive emails each day warning us of the dangers involved in religions of the world, in our presidential leadership, in our legislature, and in numerous other problems of this world.

(There is a new industry made up of people who feel it is their duty to pass on every radical email that is available.)

BUT . . I never receive excited email that tells of leading people to Christ, of asking people to attend church, of sharing the gospel, or of many other tasks that Jesus has given us to do. We, as Christians, are actually more excited about the Sweet 16 than we are about kingdom work.

WE ARE TOO BUSY . . complaining, moaning, accusing, and "being just like the rest of the world." Christ said we were to be different; our confidence was to be in Him, not in the cares and agonies of this world.

If you want to get excited about something, I encourage you to get excited about your personal relationship with Jesus.

TRUST IN THE LORD

2009-03-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

As a teenager I took my life verse from Proverbs 3:5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."
That's a good verse.
The proverb says we are to trust God in everything, not just in our Sunday activities. God is to be our guide in every aspect of life. We are not to put God into a compartment.
God is in control.
The one person who most impacted my life with this concept was Fred Cherry from Oklahoma. Fred had been trained as a civil engineer, but God got "ahold" of his life. He was never the same again, and he spent his life as an itinerant evangelist. He did find time to have 12 children and to become one of the strongest personal evangelists that I have ever met. While visiting for a revival, he would spend much of his time on the telephone witnessing "cold turkey" to people. This was back in the 1960s, and Fred would use his motel telephone to call names out of the local phonebook. He would share his personal witness and then move on to another number.
I often made personal visits with him; we would stop on the street to share Christ with anyone that he saw. It was amazing to see him follow Christ's command from Matthew 28. He had no hesitancy in sharing the good news of the gospel.
A lot of people didn't like Fred Cherry because he was a full blown tulip Calvinist. His preaching and his life gave all of the glory to God. "Trust in the Lord" was the motto of his life.
Much of my personal belief system came through his preaching. He preached it, but he mainly lived it. I still often find time to listen to his old taped sermons.
His ancestors are still preaching the gospel. It worked.
I must say that it also has worked for me. I've looked, but I've found no better thing to do than to "trust in the Lord." I'm glad I was able to know and to learn from Fred Cherry.
Thank you Fred for your faithful service. I'll see you in glory!

THE BRANDS OF SOUTH TEXAS

2009-03-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

No person in ministry in the early 1960s had the audacity to have a resume. Following God’s will was somehow prostituted by a person with a resume, and it was difficult to follow the leadership of the Lord if you moved ahead of His plan. Having a resume was a sign that we were moving ahead of God’s will. God would work at His pace; we just waited on Him to make decisions about moves to a new ministry location. I remember how I reacted when I first heard about someone who had a resume. By the way, I believe with all my heart that it still works the same way. God knows our needs and is more interested in our future than we could ever be. “Wait on the Lord.”
So it was that in1963 I saw a small group of people in the worship service at Calvary Baptist Church of Denison, and it was a group of people that I did not know. I just assumed that this probable committee was there to listen to our pastor, Roy Cloudt. After the service, Othal Brand, approached me, told me they were a music committee, and asked if RL, Chris, and I could go to lunch with them. He told me they were from McAllen, Texas. I went to RL, told her that they had invited us to lunch, and said they were from McAllen. “Where is McAllen?” RL said. I replied, “Somewhere in south Texas.”
WHERE IS MCALLEN?
Just as an aside, this committee was actually planning on visiting another music director somewhere in north Texas, but at the last minute, their plans had changed. They had already flown to the area, and they came to visit our church based on some reference that they had about me and my work in Denison. That is how God works. I hadn’t mailed them a questionnaire; I hadn’t talked with them; I didn’t even know Calvary Baptist Church existed.
I didn’t realize that the “somewhere” was about 500 miles south on the Texas/Mexico border, but after the usual interviews and two flights to McAllen on Othal’s private plane with a private pilot, we found ourselves in an exciting new ministry at Calvary Baptist Church. The first time we ever drove that long 500 miles was when we moved to McAllen; we wondered along the way about the many miles. The church, which was averaging about 400 in Sunday School, was located in a thriving area of town, and I was now the new Music-Education-Youth Director.
We moved into a beautiful tan brick home owned by the church, and it was our parsonage during our years in McAllen. The house was very nice for that era, had hard wood (parquet) floors, a nice carport, and a beautiful yard surrounded on the back by oleanders. The side wall was covered to the roof in the winter by poinsettias. We also shared the carport and sometimes even the house with hundreds of salamanders. This tropical world was a beautiful place to live.
Calvary Baptist Church had begun as a “mission” of First Baptist Church, and I am sure that the dominating personality of Othal Brand and other community leaders was very influential in the beginnings of the church. Many of the early converts of the church were baptized in the Brand’s swimming pool. Othal Brand had begun his career in the Marines after selling produce on the streets of Atlanta, Georgia. He was now a multi-millionaire with produce business all over south Texas and Mexico. He ran in some big circles, was later Mayor of McAllen, and has remained very active in Republican politics. I learned much from Othal. I was asked a question one night in Deacon’s Meeting about a particular subject, and I answered rather hesitantly. Othal corrected me in the group, told me it was my job to give them answers, and told me to bring my ideas the next time we met. Othal wanted his leadership to make decisions, and he expected the same from me. I took that helpful concept and used it the rest of my life.
Othal’s wife Kay was an ex Marine and was/is a sweetheart. They were very wealthy and used a Mexican maid at their home, and Kay used her wonderful gift of hospitality and ministry. Their home was open for any and every possible meeting whether for the church or the city or the business. Often times Kay would go to the packing shed and fill up the back end of her large Cadillac with flats of strawberries. She would then go home and make at least one dozen strawberry pies; these would be delivered along with a flat of strawberries to at least 12 homes all over the community. Chris was several years old before he discovered that everyone didn’t have strawberries at their beck and call. Chris was actually clothed by Kay during his early life in McAllen. Of course, our Kelli Kay, who was born after our move to Baytown, was named for Kay Brand.
Othal was very competitive, and we often played ping pong together in his garage. Since I was just a little bit better than him, our sessions lasted for many long hours. He just didn’t want to lose, and he’d always say while sweat soaked and without his shirt, “Just one more game.” There have been several nights when RL was visiting with Kay in the house a long time after Chris was supposed to be home and in bed.
Othal and Kay were strong supporters of Baptist life at Hardin Simmons University and at Howard Payne University.
They were great examples for our lives.

FUNERALS IN BAYTOWN

2009-03-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

It was my privilege to serve Second Baptist Church of Baytown, Texas back in the 1960s and 70s. It was some of the most exciting years of my ministry as God did a wonderful work in the church. I don't remember that we were did a lot of "programs". I just remember God making wonderful changes in the lives of many individuals.

It's been seven years since I was last in Baytown; we were there for the wedding of Pamela Brewer. We went down a couple of weeks ago for the funeral of one of the "saints" of the church, Corrine Craig. I use the term "saint" very sparingly, and it fits Corrine so well. Corrine and her deceased husband Curtis were the parents of seven children, some born in Missouri and some born in Texas.

Curtis and Corrine had arrived in Baytown in the late 1940s seeking a job. They were very poor; they lived in a little apartment alongside the railroad track. Their son Bob, who preached his mother's funeral message, told of the time when a lady from the local Baptist church stopped at their house. She had to slow down for the drive over the railroad track, and she looked out the car window to see a little girl playing in the yard. The lady asked Corrine if she could come by and pick up the little girl (Robin) and take her to Sunday School. That is what happened, and because of the visit, the entire family accepted Christ, became believers, and have served the Lord faithfully over the years.
Wow, what a story!
Maybe we need to drive around a little and look at the fields that are white unto harvest.
Corrine's funeral was a wonderful celebration. Her life reflected Jesus. She was a wonderful inspiration. I remember her energy and enthusiasm during my years in Baytown. Those who have come behind her have found her faithful.
We have lots of friends in Baytown, and we'll probably be headed down that way for other funerals in the future. That's what the Christian life is all about; we are going to celebrate God's wonderful work in the lives of his people.

THANK YOU . . EARNEST POTTER

2009-03-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

I was just a young man heading to the seminary when I was contacted by a committee from Calvary Baptist Church in Denison, Texas. I was serving in the same association as Calvary, and I was aware of the great church and its work. I was just very surprised that they were interested in talking with me about a position as Music and Youth Director of the church.
Bob Burroughs had just departed from the church to go to First Baptist Church of Abilene, Texas. Bob was an outstanding Music Minister who later headed the music department for the Florida Baptist Convention. He was a prolific composer, an accomplished director, and a wonderful musician. It was a little hard for me to picture myself as following his ministry.
Earnest Potter and his fine family had been at Calvary for a number of years, and he was well loved and respected in the area. So it was not long before I found myself working alongside him and the other staff member, Malcolm Brown. They were both kind and gracious gentlemen who loved the Lord and loved the ministry of the local church. They both taught me much in those early years of my ministry.
The Potters had two teenage sons, Kenny and Joe. Joe went on to become a physician in Madill, Oklahoma, and we have kept in touch with him for these many years. He is, of course, a grandfather now. It was my privilege to lead music in a revival in his home church at First Baptist Church of Madill many years ago.
Brother Potter, as I called him, went to be with the Lord many years ago. I can still picture him in his suit, wearing white socks, and ministering to people. He was a great churchman.
Thanks Brother Potter. You gave a young man a chance to learn and grow. You served the Lord with dignity and power. I pray for young men everywhere who can use your life as a model for their coming years of ministry.

TWO CHRISTIAN MEN

2009-03-13T19:00:00.000-07:00

I began working at Pharo and James Grocery Store on North Main in Weatherford, Texas when I was 12 years old. I sacked groceries, stocked the shelves, and did whatever Rayburn James or Tom Pharo wanted me to do. Both of these men were Deacons at First Baptist Church. They were true Christian gentlemen, and I have a great admiration and remembrances for both of them. They gave me a chance to get started in dealing with people, and both of them were very good at it. I use their names often in sermons as I talk about the examples in my life.
I recently visited with Mrs. Pharo. She is in her 90s and still lives in her old 1936 house. It was fun to talk about Tom and the good things he did for me as a child.
Saturday was a busy day at Pharo and James. Often people would double park up and down North Main Street. Sometime during that period the city decided to solve some of the parking problems by installing parking meters. That was not well received by these country people because it just seemed like we were becoming another Fort Worth, and no one wanted that.
It's now 2009, and the Courthouse Square is again being redesigned and rebuilt. Most of us who remember the "good old days" now realize that this type of change will never end. Every generation must discover and do it over again!
Thanks to Tom Pharo and Rayburn James for some wonderful memories of the 1950s in small town Texas.

BEEN TO A FUNERAL LATELY?

2009-02-12T07:28:00.000-08:00

I don't know that I remember the first funeral I ever attended. I do vivadly remember the death of my Uncle I.B. who was killed in a tragic accident, and I served as a pall bearer as a boy at my Grandfather's funeral. There was always a sense of finality at those early services.

As I matured in Christ, I understood that physical death is part of God's plan. Old bodies wear out because of sin; we don't want to hang around in them too long.

Our attitudes about death and about funerals are very tied to our attitude about God. Is He concerned? Does He have a plan for us? Why are we put in these positions? Everyone of us faces the same questions of life. It's how we anwer them that count.

My Mother and Dad lost a boy at birth in the hills of northern Arkansas during the depression. There was very little medical help in those days. The doctor, who was drunk that night, did not arrive on time, and the breach baby was still born. I can only imagine the pain and sorrow and anger of my parents during those very dark hours.

My Dad was a day laborer, and he often worked in 1934 for less than a dollar a day. They were struggling just to eat. So my Dad, with his own hands, carved a little stone that sits on the grave for Darrell Don Cotter in Leslie, Arkansas. I often visualize that small group of people gathered around the little gravesite, crying, grieving, and looking to God for support.

I know that they looked to God, because that is the way they raised me. Even though I didn't come along for another five years, they were preparing their hearts and lives to greet me.

RL is going to a funeral today; we just read in the paper of a 102 year old friend who died. I have but a few years to go before my own death.

I want my children and grandchildren and friends to be ready for death. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the Father except by me."

OLD TIMER'S DISEASE

2009-02-12T06:50:00.000-08:00

My son-in-law has peaked my interest in family history, and I've been doing a lot of work on ancestry.com. It is a lot of fun to discover a new document or fact about one of the family ancestors. Our family is just like yours. There are some tht are fun to discover; there are others we'd like to keep secret.

I'm also affected by this "old timer's disease" of looking to the past because of my mother. I realize that I write about her often, but that is only natural, since I see her and deal with her needs every day. At 102, she still continues to amaze me with her keen insights and reflections on life.

The new Holland Lake Park softball fields are being built just across the street from her retirement home, and we have made two excursions out to the new area to survey the progress. Our trip out yesterday on one of these "inspection" trips brought us into contact with an electrical crew putting up some very beautiful and ornate light poles. We stopped and talked with the crew; they were already busy with a difficult task. But . . they stopped and took the time to talk with us. Our told them of Birdie's age, and they were amazed at her ability to communicate and discuss the new lights. One of the young men told us that he had just called his 90 year old great grand father that day, and so he was very alert to Mother's needs.

She said to me, "I've never seen anything like that. That must be the 'only one' like it in the world. They certainly don't have anything like that in Big Spring or anywhere else. I assured her that there were others like it, but I agreed that it was a very beautiful softball field. I was certainly taken back by the layout and beauty and funtion of the spot. It was something!

I have old timer's disease. I usually want to look back to the past, to remember the old softball fields of the past. But . . things . . they are a changing.

As I get older, I'm praying for new timer's disease. I want to support my community as it looks to a future. I want to support my church as it reaches out in new ways. I think that is what Christ had in mind when he said, "Look at the fields that are white unto harvest." They are new.

THANK YOU . . ROY CLOUDT

2009-01-26T15:11:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking recently about people who had a great influence on my life. My life has been like most; it is the reflection of many people who touched my life with their love and support. One of those people is Roy Cloudt.

I headed to East Texas State University, Now Texas A&M Commerce in the fall of 1959. I had just completed two summers of mission work, had led music in a local church and for several revivals. I was now ready to find a place to minister as a Music and Youth Director . . if I could just find a church and pastor willing to give me the chance.

After visiting with the BSU Director at East Texas, he told me that a church pastor had recently called him about a position in the church. They needed someone . . and I needed a church. I called Roy Cloudt, talked with him on the phone, and then headed over to First Baptist Church of Howe, Texas for a visit. It wasn't long before I was the new guy . . serving on the staff of a church . . doing what God had called me to do.

Roy and Joyce Cloudt were wonderful encouragers to me, and they became lifelong friends because of that simple phone call made in 1959. That's 50 years. As an aside, that reminds me that little baby Carla will be 50 years old this March.

I often stayed in the Cloudt's home; they became my confidant and counselor before RL and I married. They stood alongside RL and me in Howe . . later at Calvary Baptist Church of Denison . . and then at Second Baptist Church of Baytown. We served together in three different churches and felt God's power at work in the lives of many people. We literally raised our families together in their young lives.

I owe Roy and Joyce a great deal of thanks. They had confidence in me when I didn't know what I was doing. They continually taught me God's word, taught me how to do church ministry, and stood with me in some difficult times.

Thank you . . Roy Cloudt (and Joyce)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIRDIE # 2

2009-01-24T15:42:00.001-08:00

We had a lunch today for Birdie at Holland Lake Nursing Center. There were eight of us present, and we enjoyed a good meal together. We then began to talk with Birdie, asking her questions from the past, just getting her to talk.

It was lots of fun. She told of riding in covered wagons, of her brother losing his hat from the wagon while going over a bridge, of riding on a train, of living in the hills of Arkansas, and of the great stories of life. She wanted to tell us more but her mind just couldn't put the right words into her mouth.

She talked a lot about wanting to go to heaven. She spoke of her wonderful life, of the joy of her family, and of remembering the great things from the past. But through it all, she said she had asked the Lord why he wouldn't just go ahead and take her. She's ready, but she said God must not be ready.

I wish I could have recorded what she said. She looked at us, her children, grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Then she said it . . the most important thing is to do what God wants you to do. It was very lucid . . very clear . . very ominous.

We all listened in amazement as this woman, who usually has a hard time making a complete sentence, gave us the great plan for living. It is to trust God. She does. She wants everyone else to trust in God just as she has . . for 102 years.

There's not much more to say. She said it all.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIRDIE

2009-01-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

My mother is 102 years old this week. She grew up in a very humble background in west Texas. She never had very much as far as worldly goods are concerned. Her own mother died when she was 12 years of age, and she helped to raise 4 younger siblings. She then married, survived the depression, picked cotten along the roads of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, and finally settled in Weatherford, Texas where she raised our family.

She has gone from poverty to her final years in a very nice nursing center. She really doesn't understand politics and that we've elected a new president. Her mind can't put complete sentences together very well. She doesn't really understand where she lives or why she lives there. She does recognize her family, and that is good. She has lived a full and wonderful life. I visit her every day. I try to help as much as possible.

I love her dearly, and I thank her for the wonderful Christian heritage that she passed along to me . . to my children . . and now to my grandchildren.

Happy birthday Mother.

IN 2008, IT ALL WENT DOWNHILL

2009-01-03T04:00:00.000-08:00

That was the headline on the Ft. Worth Star Telegram today.

In 2008:

1. I finished a wonderful interim pastoral ministry in one of our small churches.

2. All of my grandchildren are doing well; they are making good grades in school. They are growing spiritually.

3. RL and I are enjoying good health and the fun of retirement.

4. All three of our children have good jobs and are fulfilled in their positions.

5. My mother continues to thrive at 102.

6. RL and I continue to grow in the Lord, to enjoy our lives together in retirement years, and to look forward to a great future.

I thought things were going great. I must be wrong. So, to the Star Telegram, I offer my apologies for living a life by faith.

I'M GONNA TRY HARDER

2009-01-01T06:20:00.000-08:00

That's really what new year's resolutions are all about. They are based on the idea that . . if I just try hard enough, I can do it. It's all about me and my abilities. "I can be anything I want to be . . if I just work hard enough."

God made me and created me in a certain way. I never was able to force myself to grow to the heighth of 6'8". I tried, but I just couldn't make it. I took my vitamins; I ate my veggies; and I got my exercise. But here I am at 6' tall. That's it. No more or no less. I have some friends who never made the 6' status, but they are really big people.

Most of the things that I write on my blog say the same thing. I really don't have a new story or a new philosophy. I guess I'm just hung in the past.

The same old thing is this. If you want to be really big, quit making resolutions. God has already given you a plan. Follow that plan. Then 2009 will be a year that will honor the Lord. It will be a good year; no, it will be a great year.

THOSE WHO'VE GONE BEFORE

2008-12-31T04:00:00.000-08:00

As a 14 year old teenager at Camp Copass, Texas, I responded to the call of God for my life. The person with the greatest Christian influence on my life to that time was Cecil McGee. He was a loving, kid, generous Youth/Education Director in our church, and his life was a wonderful example for me. From that camp experience in 1953 I began my life of ministry as a Music-Education-Youth-Administration leader. It has led me on a lot of exciting treks, and I praise the Lord every day for the opportunities He has given to me.
My surrender to the ministry was in the early 1950s; that was just about the time when many young people responded to the call to do "associate" work in the church. Up to that time, the only call to ministry was usually to before the Pastor. I have some friends who grew up in situations where they didn't know an alternative call was a possibility.
As I've become older, it has become more apparent to me that God has been using men throughout the ages. Paul was called on the Damascus road; some were called in foxholes; others followed Christ in a service of the local church; and some found God's leadership for them while studying God's Word. Some are probably called from a rodeo arena. It really doesn't make any difference; the important thing is to respond to God's will. That's God's plan. Everyone should do it.
Shari gave me a wonderful little book for Christmas. Gospel Tracks Through Texas: The Mission of Chapel Car Good Will tells the story of a railroad car Good Will that traversed Texas between the years of 1895-1903. An itinerant evangelist served on board the rail car; they would often spend a week or more in the new little towns of Texas preaching the gospel and leading people to Christ. It is one of those stories that I know nothing about; it was an exciting new revelation to me.
Now, here's the point. Sometimes I am prone to be critical of people doing ministry in ways that are different than my call. Their emphasis is God's emphasis. It really doesn't make any difference if I'm called to do it. The main thing is that God has called them and set them apart to reach people for Jesus.
This is not a Texas Baptist book, but I surely did learn a lot about Baptist work over the years. I'm happy that there were a whole lot of folks who came before me. They were faithful to their call; God used them to help me with my call.
My favorite: "Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful."
Find the book and read it. You'll love the stories.

THE COTTER CLAN

2008-12-29T06:45:00.000-08:00

This is our group. We had a wonderful time together for Christmas. We retold the story of Jesus. We shared his love. We celebrated our joy in knowing Him. It was fun.

WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT

2008-12-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

This story is God's victorious plan for the ages. Read it carefully.
1 About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. 2 This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. 4 So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David's town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. 5 He went with Mary, his fianc-e, who was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
8 There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. 9 Suddenly, God's angel stood among them and God's glory blazed around them. They were terrified. 10 The angel said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: 11 A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. 12 This is what you're to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger." 13 At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises: 14 Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
Luke 2:1-14 (MSG)

OH BE CAREFUL LITTLE VOICE

2008-12-24T04:00:00.000-08:00

Recently I've been thinking about the denigration of language in our society. Several things have brought the subject to my mind. Let me share them:

1. There was a letter to the editor in the Fort Worth Star Telegram recently talking about the use of the word "bleeping" in the newspaper. In years past that was the way in which the paper would tell of someone using off-color language but not actually use the word. The writer was asking the newspaper to again use that type of literary expression instead of the very common practice in today's society. The style today is to use a letter with spaces behind it. I guess the idea is that we need to know everything that was stated. We don't need to read rapidly over the word "bleeping", but we need to have the actual word come into our brains.

The writer of the letter suggested that we move back to the old style of using the word "bleeping". I wholeheartedly agree! I'm tired of filthy language being forced on me.

2. My wife and I were in a conversation recently when a young man decided to use some inappropriate language to enphasize his displeasure. It is language that he uses regulary, and he obviously didn't see anything wrong with it. As our society accepts more and more inappropriate language, that is what happens. We all begin to accept the language and to make it our own.

Ruth Lynn immediately suggested to the young man that what he was saying was not acceptable. I was proud of her. The young man sheepishly apologized, and our conversation moved on. He was probably embarrassed, as well he should be, but I believe he learned a good lesson. I can ony hope that it will help him in the years to come.

3. I was listening to Dennis Prager on talk radio recently, and he told of attending a National Hockey League game. By the way, that is one reason I don't often attend live sports events. The language in the stands is often unbearable, especially where there is an abundance of alcohol. But I digress.

The crowd at the NHL game was chanting "Detroit sucks". Now I believe I know what that term means. I would certainly never say it, and most people I know would not say it. Dennis was surprised by the number of calls that he received that justified the statement as just fun among teams. And no, they wouldn't say it in public conversation, but it was alright to yell it out among a crowd of hockey fans. It was okay to scream it out when children were in the crowd. I wonder if our language use is on a steady decline?

4. I've been associated with church leaders and pastors most of my life. Occasionally I will hear one of these leaders use some type of bad language, and it always surprises me.

I recently read a statement on a public internet source where a leader denigrated other Christians with a "bodily function" statement. I guess he felt he could say something on the internet that would be unacceptable from the pulpit or in private conversation.

Most everything I write is addressed to Christians. We are the ones that God has called to change this world. Christians, it is time for us to "clean up" our act. Or maybe better, let's just quit the "act". We won't have to act when Christ is in our lives. It is "Christ is us . . the hope of glory". Christ's mouth would never issue such denigrating words and statements.

This Christmas season would be a good time to change our language. "For unto us a Son is born."

I HAVE A SONG

2008-12-23T04:00:00.000-08:00

I recently wrote about my youngest granddaughter . . and her new experiences at school. I mentioned that she always has a song in her heart . . and on her lips.

So I want to direct you to her Dad's blog . . so you can hear her song. It will put a smile on your face. Listen at:

http://www.bryanmcanally.com/

GHOSTS IN THE CLOSET

2008-12-22T04:00:00.000-08:00

I had long known that my ancient ancestry had roots in Texas in the 1820s. My great-great-great Grandfather was Issac Low, and he settled in Sabine County, Texas where he operated, among other things, a ferry across the Sabine River. He fought in the 1812 Battle of New Orleans and was a citizen of the Republic of Texas. He was very involved in the Runaway Scrape when Texans were seeking refuge in the United States after the fall of the Alamo and Goliad.

I have recently been doing some study on Ancestry.com and online. His name appears in several places; he served in some public positions in Sabine County and he lived east of Hemphill, Texas in Sabinetown. It was fun to find his name and family in the 1835 census of that region.

My parents travelled to that area several years ago and sought to visit the Issac Low Cemetery, now on the shore of Toledo Bend Reservoir. They told me that they were not well received by the local people. They didn't understand why. In my recent study, I have found the reason.

One of my ancestors, Eli Low, was killed in 1883 in what was to become the very well known (in that region) Low-Conner-Smith feud. That feud continued for many years, and even though many of the famlies have intermarried, the feud is still well known. A total of seven people including a Texas Ranger were killed during the period; some went to prison; and others just disappeared. As is usual with fueds, everyone placed blame on everyone else. The truth of what really happened will probably never be known.

I have just recently become aware of this feud and these "ghosts" in the family closet. Have you noticed how many of our families have ghosts in the closet? We usually don't like to talk about them too much. We just want to forget that they exist or ever existed.

RL and I are going down to Sabinetown this coming year. We're hoping to find out more information about our family. We want to visit the cemetery and hear some of the tales from the past. We'll be very careful.

I'm glad my last name isn't Low. That just might get me into deep trouble.

THE GOVERNOR GRADED MY PAPER

2008-12-17T23:59:00.000-08:00

Before moving to Texas about three years ago, Bryan and Kelli and their family lived in Cumming, Georgia where he worked for the North American Mission Board. They were also involved in a new church start where Jim Perdue was the pastor. He just happened to be the son of Sonny Perdue, Governor of the state of Georgia. The McAnally children became friends with the "grandfather" Sonny Perdue.

Kaylyn was taking her Georgia sytle "TAKS" test when her teacher explained that the Governor of Georgia expected great things from all of them. She told the children that the Governor would personally be grading the tests, and that everyone of them needed to do their very best on the test.

Kaylyn told her questioning teacher that she knew the Governor. The teacher answered with the, "Oh, sure you do, Kaylyn." It was only later than Kelli told the teacher that Kaylyn really did know the Governor. That, in itself, created quite a stir with the class. The best was yet to come.

Being the good student that she is, Kaylyn scored very high on the test and was excited that the Governor had done such a good job of examining her test.

The Governor showed up one night at the small church, and Kaylyn was so excited to speak with him about her test. Bryan made a fast dash to Sonny Perdue to explain the situation before Kaylyn could get to him. As soon as Kaylyn approached the Governor, he began to congratulate her on the fine job she had done on her test. Kaylyn was excited; Sonny Perdue was excited to have that close contact with one of his constituents. It was a memorable time for everyone.

Now, as a 6th grader, Kaylyn knows the full story. It was just a wonderful highlight of her young life to know the Governor and to know his interest in her test. I just ran into this picture of the Governor with Kaylyn and Cotter. She has a lifelong story to tell of her venture into politics.

SMALL TOWN AMERICA

2008-12-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

I grew up in a small Texas town where I've now returned and retired. After living in the big city of Denver for a number of years, RL and I had a desire for the feel of the small town. It has its wonderful qualities and common problems. But for us, it is home. We enjoy the experience of living with a lot of "good old boys".

My 101 year old mother lost her glasses about three weeks ago, but we waited till just last week . . hoping for their return. I went to the local optician and explained my problem. He was very helpful in getting the prescription refilled, fitting them into some inexpensive frames, and adjusting them. The glasses seemed to fit mom very well, and she was extremely happy. The glasses would normally be over $300, but he sold them to me for a $100 bill. The man indicated that he wanted to help with my particular problem. I thanked him earnestly; that's small town America.

Mother's glasses lasted for 4 days . . when she ran over them and crushed them with her wheel chair. So this morning I went back to the optometrist with my sad story. He gladly found another frame, put mother's lens into them, and handed them to me. When I asked how much I owed him, he just smiled and said, "Nothin; we're in this thing together."

That would not happen in Denver . . or Dallas . . or any other large city. It does happen in small town America. People have a concern for other people. They are anxious to help. They certainlly know that I'll be back "soon" to visit their company. That's what I love about Weatherf0rd, Texas.

WHAT'S YOUR JOHN HANCOCK

2008-12-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

It's a common statement . . "put your John Hancock" on that line. Your signature is what is needed, and the "Hancock" statement has become common in America. The United States Declaration of Independence has many names on it, but the most bold and widely recognized one is that of John Hancock.

A person's signature is very important. It defines the person. It is his personal mark, his personal seal. If you've ever closed on a new home or a loan or a business deal, you will find out that your signature is needed over and over again. Writer's cramp often sets in as this final part of the deal is finalized.

I've been watching the politicos recently, and they can finish an autograph almost instantaneously. I've actually seen some of these autographs, and they are often intelligible. They are just a mass of stratches and marks. But as I watch Antiques Roadshow, I find out that these scratches are actuallly worth a lot of money. I wonder what my John Hancock will bring in the future. Don't hold your breath.

Reggie Brewer is my dear friend and banker in Baytown, and he has one of those flourished type signtures. I took my church salary check to the bank early in my ministry there. The teller looked at the check and then excused herself. She went to Reggie's desk and asked if he thought this check was any good as she questioned the signature. He answered, "Yes, it's good . . that's my signature."

Congratulations to the young teller of 40 years ago for doing her job.

I've noticed that my signature gets more difficult to read as I age. It won't be long before it is unintelligible. I have a small booklet that my 101 year old mother wrote when she was 23 years old and newly married. She wrote her name "Mrs. Birdie Cotter" over and over again on the booklet. She was proud of her name and was practicing how to write it.

As Christians, we need to write our name over and over again into the lives of those around us. We should be proud of our name. We should shout it out loud. We are Christians who follow a living Savior. When someone asks about our "John Hancock", we need to use the name "Christian".

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING

2008-11-26T21:20:00.000-08:00

One of the things we learn as young Christians is this . . "in all things give thanks". I don't want to say that I always do it (give thanks). I know I should. I realize it is God's plan. I know it in my head, but my heart often moves away from thanks to complaining and discouragement.

I was in a Sunday School class recently when there were several announcements about people who were sick. There wasn't much "thanks" expressed in the group; there was mainly concern for the welfare of the individuals. When it was announced that one's illness had turned towards health, there was a literal gasp and praise the Lord. It is so difficult to praise the Lord when people are sick and dying, but that's what the Bible means when it says . . "to give thanks in all things." Of course, it's difficult to do. But that is what sets us apart from the lost world. We as Christians have a great hope.

It's easy to be thankful at Thanksgiving. That's the American way. Our job as Christians is to be thankful in the difficult times.

I want to be thankful in the deepest, darkest times of my life.

"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise."

Check out this article by Paul Brewster. It says it all.

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29411

I WISH I HAD

2008-11-24T11:00:00.000-08:00

It happens to almost everyone. As we get older, we think back to the things we wish we had done. The wish list is often connected with our family. We wish we had . . spent more time with the children . . lived a more Godly life . . read our Bible more . . expressed our love to our wife . . and on and on. You know the list. You've probably written it in your heart just as I have. "I just wish I had . . . . . . "

Over the past few years I've shared one simple "I wish I had" with some younger adults. This one is so simple that anyone can do it. It doesn't take a great deal of skill, and it takes such a small amount of time. Everyone has the potential of doing it. It doesn't take any great education or brain power. You just make up your mind . . and you do it.

For my children and grandchildren, I encourage you to do it.

To do what?

I encourage you to keep a journal. Take the time every day to write down some of the activities and insights of your life. It can be very simple or very involved. It can be done with a pencil or pen or computer or as a Blog . . or probably some other technical ways that I don't even know. It will be a wonderful tool in your future life as you look back at the activity of God in your life. It will help as you mature and grow and see yourself more clearly.

It would be fun to read something from my past . . to connect it with pictures of my grandmother . . or with some other event.

This is especially for my grandchildren. Start today! As you read your Bible . . and as you listen to God's directions . . write it down.

IT'S TIME TO GO TO SCHOOL

2008-11-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

Kelli does a lot of writing for Lifeway Christian Resources, and she works from her home. Before Kelsi headed out to kindergarten last year, she had her own desk and work space set up right next to her mother's space. She really enjoyed working alongside as her mother wrote Sunday School and Vacation Bible School materials. She would do her "homework" and sing a special song as she sat at her desk.

She was certainly ready to head to kindergarten since her older sister and brother would be in the same school. She was ready to learn and to be with other children, but she did give up some "personal" time with her mother when school began.

She is the youngest and probably the last of our grandchildren, and she thoroughly enjoys her position as the baby of the group. Her little tender heart always wants to please adults. She always has a smile and a song. She's a joy. She's pretty special to me.

So we were surprised when Kindergarten began that a note was sent home to her parents, and they had to deal with a difficult problem. Here is her difficult problem! Her teacher suggested that she should stop singing while doing her work at school. It just wasn't proper for her to be singing when everyone else was doing their work.

Her mother had obviously not considered the problem that had been created as they worked side by side.

I like people who sing. Kelsi still does it. She'll be playing by herself and will quietly be singing a special song. She's a lot of fun to observe. She's learned not to sing at school, but she still sings around my house. I like her singing heart. And, of course, it doesn't hurt when she crawls up into my lap and gives me lots of Kelsi hugs and kisses.

EVERYONE LOVES SPORTS

2008-11-17T06:50:00.000-08:00

Every one of our grandchildren love sports, and that includes all of the boys and the girls. Their parents have them involved in baseball and basketball and football and whatever is in the current season. It's fun to see all of them hitting and running and shooting and enjoying the "latest new sport".

They are all small timers when compared with Zach. He is the true "in your face" sportsman who enjoys it all. He can make a game out of anything. It doesn't take any deep concentration; he just makes up the game and makes up the rules as he goes.

I don't think I can remember all of the sports that Zach has played. They include all of the above plus street hockey, scgolf (combination of soccer and golf), swimming, diving, knee boarding, water skiing, four wheeling, hunting, fishing, and probably dozens of others yet to be named. He loves the competion and the challenge. And he is good at them.

Zach is also a good student in school, showing that he can handle the competition and challenges there. He is now in the 7th grade and is beginning to zero in on some specialties. There is so much that he can do.

Do it well . . Z-man.

LIKE MOTHER/LIKE DAUGHTER

2008-11-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

When Samantha's mother Shari was a small child in Baytown, she had a very "free spirit" attitude. "I can do it myself" was her theme, and we tried to give her freedom to become the Shari she is today. She is a wonderful teacher, leader, mother, and wife. Her "I can do it" attitude has gotten her into some interesting spots.

I remember the time in Baytown when a young neighbor boy knocked on the door and asked if we would come and help Shari. We found her on the roof of the house. She had climbed up the fence onto the roof to retrieve something only to discover the difficulty of getting back down.

Samantha is the re-creation of her mother. "I can do it myself." There is no challenge she won't accept. It's always the great adventure. She has had her fair share of bruises, bumps, and "I can do it" moments. She has a rope ladder to her club house that only a "monkey" can climb, but she makes it with great speed. I guess her Dad built it to keep GDads and others out of her private space. And . . it's working.

I don't know what place she won in the science fair, but that's not her prize. It's the challenge. I like that.

She may just turn out to be a "rocket scientist" someday.

THE FUTURE/PRESENT WRITER

2008-11-09T18:35:00.000-08:00

I really wonder what the future is for my grandchildren; I only want the best for all of them. But they are all so different; they have their own skills and talents and abilities. I certainly believe that is how God planned it; He gives each of them gifts to be used according to His will. I just wish I could hang around long enough to see how it works out.

Our beautiful Kaylyn Marie McAnally is now in the 6th grade . . a middle schooler. It's hard now to figure out right now about her future. Will she be a softball player (very good) . . or possibly a volleyball player (very tall) . . or maybe a scientist (great in school) . . or a people person (she's definitaly that). I don't know, and Kaylyn doesn't know. She does know that God has something good in store for here.

Writing is a special skill for her, and it may be because both her Dad and Mother are writers in their occupations. She has the genes, that's for sure. She has been a winner in writing competions in her school and at Texas State University; she writes things I didn't think about until I was full grown. That's a compliment, not a criticism. She is a very perceptive thinker. She is also turning into a very beautiful person both physically and spiritually. Here is something she wrote a year ago.

SOFTBALL SENSATIONS by Kaylyn McAnally

Four bases – pearly white, but smudged with chocolate-colored dirt – emerge from the infield to form the corners of a softball diamond. The bleachers reflect bronze, silver and gold, as though they were made from Olympic medals. From the sky’s balcony seats the marshmallow clouds cheer for both teams.

The scent of water is thick and warns of rain. Churning dust tickles my nose every time I scoop up a grounder. The fragrance of newly-cut grass greets players running to the lush, green outfield. The aroma of my leather glove gives me the confidence to make the big play.

I try to block the sounds of the infield’s chattering as I step up to the plate. The fans’ cheers help me focus. The ball whizzes past home plate for a…strike! “Zero balls, one strike,” the umpire grunts. The next one zooms in and I swing… the “ding” announces my hit …all the way to the fence!! My cleat thuds as I step onto home plate. “Safe!”

I’m tired in the last inning of the game. My worn-out glove feels like an overgrown hand. The ball is hit and I lunge forward to make the catch. The ball lands forcefully in my glove, stinging my hand underneath. Teammates rush over, tackling me in a triumphant team hug.

My dry mouth enjoys the cold, crisp water I pour down my throat. A teammate offers me sour watermelon bubblegum. Instead, I grab a handful of salty sunflower seeds. Spitting the seeds onto the dugout floor, I celebrate our team’s win. Licking my lips, I discover the sweet flavor of victory.

My senses come alive at the softball field.
--------------------------------
One last GDad comment . . isn't Kaylyn something?

SAM GROWS UP

2008-11-06T07:42:00.000-08:00

RL and I were at one time concerned that we would never be grandparents. It seemed that it took a long time for our first to come along. But Sam Cotter was born in 1994 , and then we had one new grandchild a year for the next 7 years. It just took our gang a little time to get started.

Most grandparents are a little crazy over their first one, and I was especially crazy since he was named for me. Sam and I have had a lifelong battle over saying over and over again, "No, I am Sam Cotter". He likes it, and so do I.

He's now 14 and a Freshman at Kingwood High School. Time does fly, doesn't it? The first 14 years of his life have come so fast. But now I think he's not as interested in his GDad as he once was. He has other interests.

He had his first real "date" recently with a friend from his church youth group. We coulnd't believe it. That's not our little boy. A suit and tie really cleans up a young man.

Congratulations to Sam for reaching a new point in his life. RL and I will continue to pray for him that he will listen to God's leadership for his life. God has a great plan for him; I'm just excited to see what the next 14 years will bring.

Don't they look great?

A TOUCHDOWN FOR MITCHELL

2008-11-06T06:10:00.000-08:00

Every little boy needs to be encouraged. That's the problem with many who are parents. They just don't know how to "lift up" their children; they spend all of their time explaining what the child has done wrong. That's a dangerous method.

We went to one of the peewee football games recently. The 1st and 2nd graders offer a wide variety of entertainment. It is very difficult for these youngsters to understand the intricacies of the game. (I've noticed the same is often true for the Dallas Cowboys.) But, I digress.

My grandson Mitchell, a 1st grader, was playing defensive linebacker and offensive wide out. During the first half he did a lot of dancing around on defense, and he seemed to be lost about what he was to do. His dad finally gave him some good instructions, and he began to "grab hold" and make some contact with the runners. He was actually involved in some tackles for the team.

Mitchell's team was ahead 7-0 when the other team finally scored, and then they went for the 1 point running conversion. Mitchell did his job as they ran towards his side of the field. He grabbed the runner and held on for dear life until other players could join in the pile and the stop on the 2 yeard line. I don't think he realized that he had stopped the extra point, but he was happy to be playing with the other little boys.

Mitchell's team was running out the clock. They had one final play. All of the parents assumed a "knee" to the ground, but the coach of the mighty Columbus Cardinals had one last play up his sleeve. His quarterback dropped back one big step and heaved the first pass of the game into Mitchell's waiting arms, and Mitchell was off "weaving" through the desperate defense into the end zone for the winning touchdown. WOW.

You can just see it in the eyes of a young boy who does something right. He knows it. His parents know it. His GMom and GDad know it. He begins to understand some of the accomplishments of life. That's encouragement. Little boys like to please their parents. Help them with homework . . take them to church . . say positive things to them. They'll get it.

TOUGHENING UP COTTER

2008-11-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Remember my story about "The Marble Machine"? The grandchildren and I and Gene are still building on it. It's a work in progress, and we'll give you a better video view in a few weeks(months) . . according to our speed.

My 8 year old grandson, Cotter McAnally, was working on the project this summer, and we have been using a lot of hot glue for the machine. He accidentally got some glue on his finger, and he began to cry and run around. It seemed to burn him some, but I really didn't think it was much of a problem. So I did my GDad thing . . I told him it would be okay. Don't worry about it. Let's just keep working on our machine. So he did, but later on, we had to put some aloe vera on it to cool it down.

After Cotter was gone, I was working on the project and was again using the hot glue gun. I put a large glob of glue on some wood, and then I accidentally stuck my thunb on the glob. It began instantaneously to do what all hot glue does. It began to glue my finger. I yelled out and stuck it in my mouth, hoping to cool it off and to pull it away from my finger. I must stay that that worked fine except for one small factor. It didn't pull away from my finger. It tore the skin and some flesh off as I gnawed at it with my teeth. I've attached a picture if you're brave enough to see it.

Now, for the final story. I went back to Cotter and give him my sincere apology for not being more sympathetic with his injury. I didn't know hot glue could hurt so much, but I learned. I also learned how to be a better GDad in the process. After all, as an 8 year old, he's still learning the "facts" of life. I'm old enough to know better, but I'm not too old to learn.

I suppose criticism can go both ways. My grandchildren are so far out ahead of me in the area of technology. They are digital natives, and I am a digital immigrant. I'm trying to keep up and to learn, but it's not easy to learn a new language. I think I'll just call on them when I need some help. I hope Cotter doesn't criticize me too much when I do some crazy technology things and speak a different tongue.

By the way, the picture above of Cotter is not from the Marble Machine. It is where Cotter departed from his rolling scooter and had a dramatic meeting with the asphalt road.

PIANISTS - TALL OR TEENAGE

2008-10-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

One of the advantages of serving as a Minister of Music (now called Worship Leader, etc.) in my early years of ministry was the opportunity of serving in a "larger" church with other staff members. Many young pastors do not have that opportunity. They often go to a church with small congregations and no staff support. They are sometimes left on their own "out in the wilderness". Larger churches often have accomplished leadership.

After serving in other churches, it was my privilege to move to Second Baptist Church of Baytown, Texas as their Minister of Music and Youth. Second BC was a very successful church with 25 years of great history in the area, but I was to be their first "full time" Minister of Music.

I remember the very first time I met Patsy Brewer because she was a tall lady and the church pianist. I didn’t know it at first, but Patsy was my age and had graduated from Lee High School in Baytown in 1957. Since Patsy was exactly 6’ tall, the same height as me, I remember standing on my tip toes when we first met. Patsy had been the pianist in the church for 16 years by that time because she began playing age 12. The next eight years were going to be exciting ones as we learned and grew together musically. And, by the way, Patsy is still playing the piano at Second Baptist. I promise not to tell her age.

The part time music director at the church had been W.C. Herring who was a school administrator with the Goose Creek School District. He had done a wonderful job in the past, but the church wanted to have a larger music program for all ages. W.C. Herring was always very gracious; he stepped back and let me lead and often led music in small churches of the area. His daughter, Pam, became one of my most ardent supporters and pianist for the youth choir. It was she who helped me so much in the early days that “rock and roll” came to the church. She was a very good pianist and helped me to work my way through the new rhythms of that era. We still maintain contact with Pam after all these years.

I mention these two fine ladies to say THANK YOU. You both saved my life. I certainly couldn't play the piano, and you spent a lot of time "making me look good". I love tall pianists . . and I love teenage pianists.

THE REALITY OF LIFE

2008-10-26T19:33:00.000-07:00

God's word is clear. We are not to kill.

And yet, this modern world says it is alright to kill an unborn child.

My 101 year old mother lost a still born child in 1934, and the hurt is still there.

We know a precious couple who lost a still born child of 37 weeks just this weekend, and yes, the hurt and pain will remain for years to come.

That's how it should be.

We should be concerned about life because God has given it to us.

We can argue and debate and support every political cause.

But it is still killing on our part.

We have become a nation of killers.

It's time to stop. It's time to celebrate life.

ARE YOU SCARED?

2008-10-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

The following is a direct quote from a CNN poll . . from this week's news.

THE POLL
Seventy-five percent of those surveyed in a CNN/Opinion Research Corp. poll released Tuesday said things are going badly in the United States.
An equal portion of those polled said they are angry about the way things are going. Two-thirds of those questioned said they're scared about the way things are going and three in four said the current conditions in the country are stressing them out.
"It's scary how many Americans admit they are scared," said Keating Holland, CNN's polling director. Prior to 2008, we have seen that level of dissatisfaction only three times in the past four decades -- during Watergate, the Iranian hostage crisis and the recession of 1992," Holland added.

MY RESPONSE

I decided "a long time ago" to place my faith and trust in God. After a lifetime of doing just that (i.e. placing my faith in God), I have found out that it works. There's a lot of scriptural support, but a good one is in 1 Peter 5:7 . . "casting all your cares on Him . . for He cares for you."

I serve a God that cares for me. He loves me. He gives me life.

There's certainly a lot in the world to be scared about. Those who live without faith and who trust only in themselves have a lot to be scared about. I pray today that I can keep my eyes on the God of my salvation.

LANGUAGE SAYS A LOT

2008-10-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

There's lots of discussion in our country about English and why everyone should use it. I'm one of those guys who is uni-lateral when it comes to language. I know only one language, and that one is English. I really wish I could speak Spanish or another language, but I was never committed enough to get that accomplished.

I've seen a lot of Christians who seem to be really upset that a Spanish speaking person "refuses" to speak English. I'm not sure that they are refusing; they may just be uni-lateral like I am. Learning a new language is not easy; it requires much time and work. I do believe that English is the language of America, and I do wish that everyone could and would seek to use it in the business world. BUT that is somewhat secondary to me.

Most of all, I'm concerned about Christians who refuse to speak the correct language. As you listen to them and as you observe their lives, they sound just like the rest of the world. Their language is filled with slurs and put-downs and denigration of others. Sometimes their words become foul and filthy. They often use their words to gossip and slander and debase others. They are more interested in criticism than they are in lifting up.

Our words are to be filled with love . . whether they are spoken in English or Spanish or any of the other hundreds of languages of this world. Christ died for all mankind; he didn't ask them what language they spoke. He simple asked them to . . "follow me".

I want to be an encourager to the Chrisitian famly . . to challenge us to change our language from hurt to healing. Decide today to say a good word about someone . . even to those to whom you have disagreements. That might be the best thing that ever came from our mouths during this political season.

TEENAGE GIRLS AND NUMBER 68

2008-10-17T07:49:00.000-07:00

The Weatherford High School Homecoming Parade was yesterday, and some thousands of folks lined South Main to celebrate the annual ritual. There were about 30 members of the 1958 graduating class who rode on a hay bale covered trailer and enjoyed the crowd and the joy of celebrating their 50th Homecoming. The football game is tonight an the big party will be Saturday night. It's a wonderful part of home town America, and I had the privilege of observing these 68 year olds acting like 18 year olds. People never change.

We had to "hoist" some of the people onto the high 18 wheeler trailer, but they made it safely. Then 25 went to a local Mexican food restaurant for two hours of noise, food, and conversation. But one of the highlights of the day came at the end of the parade.

We were helping everyone off the trailer. Three of the men had sat together for the ride, and they all had on their football jerseys with their name and number. Ted Hartness (68), Gary Beck (11), and Lynn Dobbins (22) had all been leading team members. Gary and Lynn are still in good physical condition, but Ted has suffered some major medical problems. He is now stooped and shorter, but he had made it to the parade with enthusiasm. He had been in 1958 an All-State Guard for the Weatherford Kangaroos.

Now for the rest of the story.

I noticed three teenage girls walk by our crowd of senior adults, and one was pointing out the number and name on the jersey of Ted. They walked past, but one came back to take a picture of this "old man" in the jersey. Ted had begun to walk away, and I stopped him so they could take a picture of his name on the backside. As Ted walked away, I stepped over to the girl and told her that this man was the Captain of the 1958 Kangaroo team. She was taken by surprise and said to me, "Really?" And I said, "Yes, really." She smiled and continued on her way.

She thought of Ted and the others in the crowd as a bunch of old people.

Ted and the others thought of themselves as a bunch of 18 year olds in tired bodies.

Now for the punch line. All of this is God's plan. He cared for us as 18 year olds, and He still cares for us as older adults. God is good!

BILL CHAPPELL ART

2008-10-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have something go "over your head"? It happens to me very often, and I discovered an "over the head" part of my life recently. We were travelling with the Holsingers, and we stopped for lunch in downtown Hamilton, Texas. While eating lunch in a nice local restaurant, we walked two doors down the street to Bill Chappell Art.

Bill is a well known western artist who has created sculpture, paintings, and prints over many years. http://www.billchappellart.com/ While talking with Bill and his wife, we soon found that we had mutual friends from Colorado since Bill and his wife Fay had lived in the South Fork area of Colorado for many years. I knew Bill's name by reputation, but I was surprised to learn of their work with Southern Baptists in Colorado.

Bill and Fay moved to southern Colorado in 1953 where Bill was in the cattle business, and his new art career was begun. They were instrumental in starting College Heights Baptist Church in Alamosa. They also helped with the work in Crede and South Fork and other mountain churches in southern Colorado. Bill also served for several years of the Executive Board of the Colorado Baptist General Convention during its formative years.

Bill is now in his 80s and has a wonderful gallery in Hamilton. You need to stop by and visit with him on the downtown square. The main thing to remember is this. Bill and Fay gave their lives and their ministry to reach people for Christ in Colorado. That reality once went "over my head", but now I thank the Lord for them. They are just one couple who made a deep commitment to tell people the good news of the gospel.

I lived in Colorado for about 25 years, and it was my privilege to meet a lot of "Bill Chappells" along the way. I'm glad I got to know many of these wonderful people.

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION PRAYER

2008-10-12T18:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Father. I thank you first of all for the freedoms of my country, for the opportunity to openly confess You as Lord. I stand in awe that you have allowed our country, though sinful and unrepentitent, to stand as a beacon to a lost and dying world. In this election season, I pray for myself. I want to be available for your work. You have given to each of us free choice, and I cannot change the actions of others. I pray that John McCain and Barach Obama will listen to you. I pray that their spirits will be directed by you. I want my nation to react as a Christian nation, but most of all, I want to react as you lead me. Lord, help me as I vote and as I support those that will be slected to lead my city and county and state and country. My life is yours.

SECRETARIES DO ALL THE WORK

2008-10-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

I recently called County Commissioner John Roth (Precinct 3) to ask for some help down the road on Roark Lane. He wasn't available, but I was able to speak with Michelle. I don't really know what Michelle's title is, but she obviously answers the phone and handles a lot of the problem calls in the Precinct. She actually wanted to give me John's cell phone number, but my own inner sense suggested that I just turn over the needs to Michelle. She was very helpful, and may I say, efficient.

Within about two hours there was a full crew of workers who showed up on Roark Lane, and by the end the day, all of the problems were solved. I asked the foreman of the job if he worked for John or for Michelle; he just smiled and kept on working.

I have such wonderful respect for people who work behind the scenes. Most of the time I don't even know their name(s), but they get the job done without any praise or recognition. So, thanks Michelle for the great job.

I joined the staff of the Colorado Baptist General Convention in 1989, and I was immediately greeted with the smiling face of Eunice Liesmann. Her husband, Ron, was pastor of one of our Baptist churches, and Eunice was a graduate from the Religious Education school of Southern Seminary. She was certainly over qualified to be a ministry assistant, but that didn't make any difference to Eunice. She met every person with a smile and a deep understanding of ministering to their needs. She understood the challenges of our division, and she was constantly learning and growing in ministry. We worked together there for a number of years before Ron and Eunice moved on to minister in Wyoming. They are now retired and living close to children in South Texas.

I've had a lot of compliments over the years about my work, but I know the truth. Secretaries do all the work. Thanks Eunice. You were faithful to God's call.

THE HENDERSONS OF HAWAII

2008-10-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been to Hawaii? It is as beautiful as they say. My uncle Mike spent some time there at Pearl Harbor during World War II. Another uncle, Howard, made it to Hawii at the end of the war just in time to work as a life guard. That must have been fun. RL and I made a trip in 2004 and had a wonderful time on three of the islands.

My favorite Hawaiians are Veryl and Cherl Henderson. Veryl serves as the Executive Director for the Hawaii Baptist Convention, but they were originally from the Rocky Mountains. Veryl grew up in Grand Junction, Colorado, and Cheryl grew up in a missionary home of Roy and Maxine Owen, who served all over the western states. They worked in Hawaii for many years on the state staff.

The Hendersons then made a sojourn back to Colorado for a few short years where Veryl served as our state Director of Missions. The Hawaii convention then needed them, and they travelled back and have remained there, serving very faithfully for several years.

Hawaii seems like the ideal spot, but its not always "paradise". There is lots of "cabin fever" in the state. It is surrounded by water, is influenced greatly by tourists from around the world, and is certainly not on the buckle of the bible belt.

Veryl has given the state wonderful leadership. They live in what we would consider to be a very simple lifestyle at tremendous financial cost. Cheryl is such a wonderful Executive Director's wife who loves the churches and the people. They may be from the American west, but their hearts and lives have been in Hawaii for many years. I love that type of commitment, and it can only come from God's leadersip.

Cheryl is dealing with some cancer problems right now. Pray for her, and also pray for the Hawaii Baptist Convention. They will be hosting the Baptist World Alliance in just a couple of years. They will, under Veryl and Cheryl's leadership, do a great job. They are wonderful hosts.
I'll never forget our afternoon of "eating around Oahu" . . we stopped at each and every known spot that Cheryl could find. Thanks Veryl and Cheryl for being such good friends and for remaining faithful to God's call in your life.

BIRDIE IDELL LOW COTTER

2008-10-08T05:53:00.000-07:00

My mother is living at Holland Lake Nursing Center, and she is a hoot. She has a hard time remembering much, and she certainly struggles with her communication skills. I wish she could do better, but at 101 I believe she is doing great.

Mother was born in 1907 . . yes, that's right . . 1907. As you may realize, that was before the days of automobiles or airplanes or whatever we may consider "modern". You realize that I don't know how a cell phone works. It's hard to imagine what she thinks of this "stuff" that overwhelmes our society. She just accepts it and continues to live her life.

My mother's mother died when my mother was 12 years of age, and my mother then became the "mother" of her four younger siblings. (How do you like that sentence?) They did have some help from aunts and cousins and other relatives, but my mother took over most of the household at that young age. I'm talking about a dirt poor household; I really don't know how they survived in that dry West Texas life. They did, and my mother went on to raise her own family and to live with my Dad for 57 great years before he died 21 years ago.

I'm headed over to see her this morning. They get her up at 7:30 for breakfast, and I'll get there about 8:30 for a visit. She's now in a wheelchair, but she zips up and down the hallways. She'll probably be confused, but we'll vist for about 30 minutes. She'll say to me, "There's something I wanted to tell you." Then she'll never be able to remember what it was. That's okay. We'll visit and then she will probably want me to leave. We really don't have a lot to talk about, but it's important that I'm there. That's how life is between Birdie and Sam.

I'm not sure I want to live to be 101, but all of that is really in God's hands. I just want to stay faithful for the years that I have on this earth. That's how it is between Jehovah and Sam.

FIFTY YEARS IN MINISTRY

2008-10-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

September, 2008 completes 50 years for me in the ministry. I really hadn't thought much about it, but RL had talked and shared that information with several people. So I've been receiving cards and email and calls . . all congratulating me for this anniversary. It's really been fun for me to thank the Lord for the opportunity to work with all of those folks.

In some ways this is the reason I began to write this blog. I wanted to share some stories, some people, and the great joy that it has been to work with the church of Jesus Christ. I wouldn't change my 50 years for anything else on this earth.

I wanted to list the churches that have touched my life. Each church was made up of people who loved the Lord, who had great patience with me, and who helped me to grow. Most of them will never understand the wonderful part they played in my life. I'm hoping that heaven will give me the opportunity to express much thanks to them. But for now, thank you . . .

First Baptist Church . . Howe, Texas . . Calvary Baptist Church . . Denison, Texas . . Calvary Baptist Church . . McAllen, Texas . . Second Baptist Church . . Baytown, Texas . . Bellevue Baptist Church . . Hurst, Texas . . Calvary Baptist Church . . Craig, Colorado . . Colorado Baptist General Convention . . Centennial, Colorado

I love you in the love of the Lord.

MY LONG LOST FRIENDSHIPS

2008-09-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

The type of friendships that are found in a church go beyond earthly . . because they have heavenly connectons. I often find myself separated over the years from a dear friend . . only to renew that acquaintance and to find that its just as strong as ever.

I recently reconnected with my friend Bob Craig, if only online and through his blog. It's a good one at http://www.claybreadbox.blogspot.com/. It was so refreshing for me to remember the great times that we have spent together. It puts a lump in my heart as well as my throat. As I think of Bob and Catherine and their wonderful children, I am reminded that this is just a simple picture of what heaven will be like. We'll gather as the family of God around the throne to worship our risen Savior. I think there will be a lump in our hearts as we worship together.

After moving back to Texas following a lifetime in the far country, we were able to re-up and become close friends with our German friends, the Holsingers. They are really not from Germany, but they are from the far north of Pennsylvania and Ohio, and they were dear friends of ours back in the Hurst days. They went on many mission trips with us when our families were young, but we had been out of close touch over the years. Terry went through some major open heart surgery, moved to California for a time, and then came back to settle again in Texas. Terry's ancestry is with the Brethren Church, but they chose to become very faithful Baptists when there was no "home" church for them. We travel with them now, and they are dear friends in Christ. They are the type of friends that cannot be explained. Lump to the heart?

I talked recently with my dear friend Dayton King who worked for the Baptist Convention of New Mexico for many years. He is retiring at the end of October, and the two of us talked together of the "good old days" in denominational life. You can tell we're both getting old because we used the term "good old days." We've traveled lots of miles together; he is a faithful friend who has given his life to reach others for Christ.

Wouldn't it be terrible to not have close Christian friends? I relish the opportunity of earthly friends . . who are friends for eternity.

THE CLASS OF 58

2008-09-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

I graduated from high school in 1957, and RL graduated in 1958, and we're now living back in our home town. She has close relationships with some of her classmates from that period, and they get togther often for eating out, etc. We were with about 30 of them recently; I was really surprised how old some of them looked. I just don't understand why they have aged so much. Oh well, I'll just keep on NOT looking in the mirror.

Here's a good one from a lady:

I was sitting in the waiting room for my first appointment with a new dentist. I noticed his DDS diploma, which bore his full name.
Suddenly, I remembered a tall, handsome, dark-haired boy with the same name had been in my high school class some 40-odd years ago. Could he be the same guy that I had a secret crush on, way back then?
Upon seeing him, however, I quickly discarded any such thought. This balding, gray-haired man with the deeply lined face was way too old to have been my classmate. Hmmm—or could he??
After he examined my teeth, I asked him if he had attended Central High School.
“Yes. Yes, I did.” he gleamed with pride.
“When did you graduate?” I asked.
He answered, “In 1958. Why do you ask?”
“You were in my class!” I exclaimed.
He looked at me closely.
And then, that miserable, near-sighted, ugly, old, wrinkled rascal asked, “WHAT DID YOU TEACH?”

RL's 50th Anniversary Homecoming is October 16-18, 2008 at Weatherford High School.
That's Barbara Moore Owens with RL . . an old friend. She played the organ at our wedding. I enjoy getting together with some of the old gang; we retell the same stories and talk about the same ailments. The older we get the more we look back.

JOHN MCKAY - MUSIC EVANGELIST

2008-09-23T18:02:00.000-07:00

John McKay grew up in west Texas and in north Fort Worth, and he is a tremendously talented musician and singer. As a young man, he sang in the Dallas Music Hall musicals and was invited to New York to pursue a music career on the stage. But something was wrong with that plan.

Instead of heading to the "big time", John followed God's call and committed his life to music ministry in Baptist churches and crusades. He wrote some wonderful music, he produced some great albums and books of music, and he has served faithfully for many years. John is well known and loved all across the Southern Baptist Convention.

I worked with some of John's children while serving in Hurst, Texas many years ago, and I just completed an interim pastor position and worked with John for 8 months. I recently had lunch with John, and we discussed our years of ministry. His story is very similar to mine, that is, except for the fact that he is a great soloist. Just like me, he heard the call of God on his life, and he has remained true to it. Now in his 70s, John is serving as the interim music director at Friendship Baptist Church in Weatherford. The people there love him, and he helps them to sing music of the church from the depths of the heart.

Just a sidelight . . for many years, Richey Craig of the Baytown Craig clan has played the piano for John. Richey continues to be the pianist at Wedgewood Baptist Church in Fort Worth.

John and Richey and others others like them are just the reason I share this blog. I want you to know many of God's faithful servants who have touched my life. I'm glad I've become good friends with John McKay and Richey Craig. John and Richey are persons who understood the call of God was for their entire lives. They just keep on keeping on!

OFFERING FOR STATE MISSIONS

2008-09-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

I just got off the phone with a call to Nicy Murphy. For you Texans, Nicy Murphy is the Mary Hill Davis of Colorado. The annual Colorado offering in September is called The Nicy Murphy State Missions Offering. I never will forget when Kelli was in high school, and she was able to meet Nicy Murphy. Since we had arrived from Texas, she was amazed that Nicy Murphy was a real person and that she was actually alive. Kelli had obviously never been able to never met Mary Hill Davis.

That was about 20 years ago, and Nicy is still alive. I remember kidding Nicy, who was a member of our church in Colorado, about her age. I often would ask how old she was, but she always declined to give me an answer. Today, as we spoke on the phone, she happily told me that she was now 97 years of age. She has a goal of reaching 100; she continues to write and work on many projects. She said she was running out of time to get it all done.

Nicy lives back in her home town of Guymon, Oklahoma, but for many years she travelled throughout the Rocky Mountain states working with Woman's Missionary Union. She never married, but she gave her life to starting new work in Montana and the Dakotas and Wyoming and Colorado and wherever possible. She was a true pioneer in ministry in the Colorado Convention and in the Northern Plains Convention.

Nicy wrote a wonderful little book about her years of ministry. The Flip Side or Workin' for the Lord ain't all that dull tells some funny stories of driving through the snow, flying from state to state with Phil Card as pilot, leading conferences in remote places, and just doing the Lord's work. One of the funnest stories is of the lingerie salesman who wanted to give her a free bra. There's more to the story, but you'll just have to read it. If you can find one of her books, read it. It'll leave you laughing and also inspired.

I love Nicy Murphy. She gave her life to share missions all over the western part of the United States.

Thank you Nicy for being faithful to God's call to your life. You did good! Keep it up!

NEW KNEE

2008-09-18T06:33:00.000-07:00

I can hear the theme from the old TV program "The Twilight Zone". Listen and you can hear that theme in your brain . . "new knee . . new knee . . new knee". I don't guess Rod Sterling was thinking about this modern age when new knees are common, but getting one does seem like a twilight zone experience. My brother just had a second one "installed" at the local hospital, and my brother in law will soon get two new knees. Who would have thunk it?

This world of technology spins my head. I distinctly remember the first computer that I used back in the 1980s. The personal computer wasn't even evented until 1980, and it was certainly a primitive contraption. I can almost hear the twilight zone theme in my brain . . "no-nee . . no-nee . . n0-nee". We thought it was wonderful that you could actually "type" and make corrections before anything was printed. That was pretty amazing and new age to all of us. We seemed to be in the twilight zone.

My dear friend Don Perry did some early computer programming in the early 1970s. He actually had a program where we could call the "main frame" in Houston and play golf on the telephone. Now it wasn't Tiger Wood golf; there were no actual visuals. The program would just tell you how many yards you had hit the ball and if it was in the fairway. It was primitive, but as I remember, it a lot of fun. We thought we were in the big time.

I wonder what the world will look like another 20 years from now. People now can have new knees, new hips, new hearts, new livers and kidneys, new legs and arms and hands, and a thousand other things. A person can even have a new heart. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the doctor could stick in a new person . . one who was "new" all over. Wow, that's what Christ does when he comes into a life. He makes us a brand new person.

I've had a new hip (twice on the same side) back in 2001. I've lost some other "parts" along the way. I really don't want any more new parts. I surely do want to keep the ones that I have. No-nee . . no-nee . . no-nee.

UNCLE M.J. AT PEARL HARBOR

2008-09-17T09:29:00.000-07:00

I was born in 1939, and that was just at the same time that my Uncle M.J. joined the navy as a 17 year old from the dryness of west Texas. As one of 14 brothers and sisters who had barely survived the misery of the depression, he was probably looking for a new adventure. He found it in the order and good food of the U.S. Navy, and it wasn't long before he found himself as a 16" gunner on the U.S.S. Maryland anchored at Pearl Harbor.

The U.S.S. Maryland was parked just inside the U.S.S. Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and M.J., who was a turret gunner on a 16" gun, survived the attack. The battleship escaped from the harbor and headed for Washington state where it was reconditioned and prepared for battle. It then headed back to the Pacific where it bombarded island to island for the remainder of the war. By the time the war ended, Mike was a 23 year old veteran who had seen his great amount of death and destruction. He often told some of those stories, but I believe he kept many inside because of their depth of horror.

Following the war, the U.S.S. Maryland returned to Washington where it was decomissioned and placed in dry dock. Mike placed on a bedroom wall a 12x18 inch plaque from his gun turret on the U.S.S. Maryland. He had taken it in his duffle bag as he left his "home" for the final time. It was a wonderful remembrance of his years of service.

My uncle Mike, as the U.S. Navy named him, died on Tuesday, Septmeber 16. RL and I will attend his memorial service in Littlefield, Texas this Saturday. We will also visit the Lamb County Veterans Memorial where his name appears with those of five of his brothers. They all came home from the great wars.

Mike was truly one of the greatest generation. I will miss him.

I'll use a future blog to tell some more of his story. It is fascinating.

THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER

2008-09-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

I'm watching the Cowboys play the Eagles . . and a 20 year old "singing sensation" just finished the national anthem. It reminded me of church, and here's the reason!

Anytime in church that a soloist . . or a music leader . . or a praise team . . or a choir . . or a pastor . . or a person making the announcements . . or anyone who is standing up in front of the worshipper . . decides to focus on themself insead of God . . they have missed the point.

It's obvious that the girl who was singing had a good voice, but I didn't want to hear all of the trills and thrills and additions. I wanted to hear the national anthem sung in honor of our country. She missed the point.

Here's the reminder. When we worship, quit concentrating on self and concentrate on Jehovah God. Then we won't miss the point.

THE CHURCH IS DISRUPTED

2008-09-14T12:40:00.000-07:00

The reason God's people gather together at the church is to worship. We come together so we can get our minds off of the problems of the world; we come to think of God and his goodness and greatness. That's the plan. It often doesn't happen that way.

I remember the time when a man disrupted a revival service to yell about his disagreement with what was being preached. He had been in the service but had left a little earlier. I was seated on the platform, and I wondered why he didn't return. I just assumed he didn't want to be there any longer. I was shaken out of those thoughts when he rushed into the front of the auditorium as he was screaming and yelling. He came around right where I was sitting, and I immediately jumped up and grabbed him by the arm. This was before the days when we worried about someone actually entering with a gun, and I didn't even think about him hurting me. I did ask myself, "Where is Bill Ivy?" Bill was a superintendent of a local coal mine, he was a deacon, and he was a leader of men. Just as I had the question about Bill, I turned to look and there he was. He and two other men came to help and grabbed the man. We pulled him out of the auditorium and asked him to quieten down, but he continued to yell and cause a disturbance. After getting him outside and being unsuccesful in our efforts, we called the local police who transferred him to the city jail. Oh well, so much for a quiet worship service.

Churches are prime candidates for robberies; in today's society most churches have installed some type of security system. In churches I've served in the past, we have lost sound equipment, cash, video equipment, and anything else that could be sold for a profit. We had so maky break-ins in one church that I told the staff to quit locking the doors to their offices because every time there was a burglary the crooks would just kick in and ruin the door jambs.

At the same church we once had a big old safe stolen. We didn't have much in the safe, but we collected a small amount from the insurance company. It wasn't long until the Sheriff's Department called to tell us they had found the safe unopened in the river bottom. The door was messed up and not able to be fixed. I knew I would have to report it back to the insurance company; I just told the Sheriff's Department to keep it as a gift from us.

In one church we had money stolen from purses in the choir room, and we determined to solve the crime. We actually set up a sting operation by leaving some of the men on watch by the choir rooom during church, and it wasn't too many Sundays until we caught our thieves. I'll always remember the day when Mac Morrison came to the back of the auditorium during a service and motioned for me to leave my place on the platform. He had caught some young men with their hands in the purses, and they immediately made a trip to the police station. (Above is a picture of Mac feeding deer in his back yard in New Braunfels. YES, Mac did look a little different when he caught the thieves, but this is the only picture that I have.)

It's good to remember that through all the disruption, God is still in control.

HANGING AROUND THE CHURCH

2008-09-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

It's been my privilege to hang around the church and church people most of my life, and I have lots of stories to tell. For those who don't understand the church of Jesus Christ and who don't know that Christians can have lots of fun, this may come as a surprise.

We as Baptists believe in the Biblical command to "baptize" people in water. The Greek word actually means to "dip" people under water. Sprinking is something of a compromise, and we as Baptists are very involved in lots of water. An unchurched man came by our church in Colorado and wanted to know what that thing was up behind the pulpit; he had never seen a baptistry and didn't understand that we filled it with water in order to "dip" people. And, by the way, it is not a secret event. We want everyone to see baptism as a testimony of faith.

There are literally hundreds of funny stories about the disasters that occur when you get that much water . . and that many people . . and the need for warming the water . . and the need for filling up the baptistry with water. Every church that I know has probably had a small flood caused by an overflowing baptistry. I don't really have time to tell all of those, but I encourage you to find a local Baptist pastor who will gladly tell you some of these wild stories. Most of them will let you know how wet a nice suit can be when the pastor's waders begin to leak. One of the best storytellers about baptism is the music evangelist John McKay. He has lots of them.

I remember the day I arrived at a new church where I was to serve as a Youth Pastor, only to find my office completely filled with newspapers. The youth, along with some help from many of the adults, had spent hours of labor in opening up newspapers to fill the office. It was a sight to behold. Welcome Sam.

Reggie Brewer was a sponsor on one of our youth trips, and we took him to the airport for an early return home. Reggie had his guitar, and we all gathered around him and swooned over his supposed popularity. Most of the people watching thought he was someone famous, and they began to gather around and ask for autographs. I believe Reggie rushed onto plane and tried to hide so no one else could find him. He didn't mind being popular, but he just couldn't "complete" the story of who he was and where he was performing next. We still laugh about that one.

There are more stories to come from years of hanging around the church!

THE MARBLE MACHINE

2008-09-06T19:46:00.000-07:00

Back during the summer one of my grandsons was here for a visit, and he and I were fooling around in the workshop. We had some marbles that we wanted to roll down a roughly made trough, and we started rolling marbles. From that first little project has developed our neighborhood famous "Marble Machine". We first named it the Rube Goldberg Marble Machine, but since no one understood who Rube Goldberg was or is, we simplified the name.

The picture shows a work in progress; we continue to add tracks and all sorts of mechanisms. It has "taken over" one of my work benches, and I don't see any future opportunity of tearing it down and moving it. It has literally enveloped the work bench. Now all of the grandchildren have become involved in either building on it or playing with it. We now have steel marbles moving in all directions, making all sort of noise, and creating a great clamor.

I must admit that I've become deeply involved in something that is totally useless. I guess you can say it is totally useless until you see the gleam in the eyes of the grandchildren. Even the adults in the family and in the neighborhood stand and look at it with amazement in their eyes. Everyone says "wow" to the monster. Even my brother has become involved in design and construction of some of the elements. And, by the way, it's basically made of scraps and junk.

I don't think we're going to eliminate any of the world's video games because of this project, but for just a little while it has brought a lot of joy and pleasure to Sam, Zach, Kaylyn, Samantha, Cotter, Mitchell, and Kelsi. Lynlee and Nolan are off at college, but I believe even they would have a great time with "The Marble Machine."

You can see it at: www.youtube.com/v/PaxM47eJofc

MY MOTHER IN LAW

2008-09-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

We were talking with friends just last week when RL reminded them that her mother had died just about a year ago. As with most things in life, their reply was, "Where has this time gone?" It's hard to realize that Grandmother had left us a year ago. Life had been moving so fast that we really failed to realize the passing of time.

Grandmother was a sweet dear lady who lived to the wonderful age of 94. Grandad had died several years before, and she had lived alone in a assisted living center. She didn't really like it, but she understand the necessities of life. By the way, I visit a lot of assisted living homes and nursing homes, and I've yet to meet anyone who is thrilled to be there. I want to remind you and I want to remind myself that God's plan includes old ages. He created life; he created every phase of life; he understands old age. I don't, but he does.

So on this September 12, 2008, exactly one year after her passing, I want to say how much I love and appreciate the life of Ruth Barker. She was a loving, caring mother in law who supported me over many years of marriage.

I miss her, but I understand she was and is a part of God's plan.

MY BROTHER GENE

2008-09-05T19:57:00.000-07:00

My brother was born in 1932 in the hills of northern Arkansas, and I had a another brother still born and buried in Arkansas in 1934. It took another 5 years for my parents to decide to have another child, and I'm glad they did. I was born in 1939. So there was seven years of difference in the age of the two boys in our family.

My brother and I were not very close as boys because of that age difference. We really didn't fight and argue much, but I did pick up a 5 pointed ice pick and threw it at hime when I was about 7 years of age. It hit him right in the middle of the back and left 5 little holes. We never did tell our parents about that episode, and we decided not to fight again the future.

He was in the US Army in Korea when I was coming of age, and I still have a letter he mailed to me encouraging me to be nice as I dated girls. It was a good word to me from my older brother, and it meant much to me during my dating years.

After living great distances from each other for many years, we not live just two blocks from each other. We're enjoying our retirement years together, and we enjoy being with and supporting each other. We do a lot of wood working projects as a team. He and his wife are Godly people who are faithful members of one of the local churches.

Gene . . . . I love you.
Thanks for being a great brother to me.

ROUGHHOUSING BROTHERS

2008-09-04T14:12:00.000-07:00

My older brother and I never did really “roughhouse” together; he was seven years older than me, and he really didn’t want to be around me very much. I did throw an ice pick at him one time when I was about seven years old, and that stopped whatever roughhousing we might have done. So I’ve always been fascinated in a family with lots of boys.

One great example was the Craig family in Baytown, Texas. Some of their boys were already grown when I arrived on the scene, but it was fun to get to know them. Their parents, Curtis and Corrine, were sweet Christian folks; Curtis ran a used car lot for many years in Baytown. The fun thing was that every child in the family had a name that began with the letter R. The one girl was Robin followed by Robert, Rickey, Rodney, Randy, Reggie, and Rusty. You’ve already probably figured out that they were probably a pretty tough bunch; I imagine they did a lot of roughhousing over the years.

I remember playing racquetball with Randy and Reggie one day; they were on the same team in a doubles match. You must realize that doubles in racquetball can be very dangerous because there is a great chance that someone on the court will be hit on the backside with the ball. It happens accidentally most of the time, that is, unless you’re one of the Craig brothers. I will never forget when Randy hit Reggie, rather intentionally. Reggie was a tough guy; he was a football receiver for the Arkansas Razorbacks and later the Kansas City Chiefs. When tears came to his eyes, he wanted to attack Randy, but they just laughed and went on trying to hit each other. It didn’t take me long to excuse myself from the game; Reggie already had a large whelp on his back, and I didn’t want one.

I remember the time when Rusty, the youngest of the family, took a fast swim through some of the drainage pipes and into a nearby creek. Several children were playing, and Rusty just disappeared with all the children screaming and crying. It wasn’t long until he was found about a block away hanging onto a tree limb on a creek bank. He said that he had been practicing earlier that week on how to hold his breath, and when he fell into the drainage pipe, he just held his breath. He was a little bruised and bumped, but he just seemed to enjoy the exciting trip through the water. Everyone else thanked the Lord that Rusty was alive.

That’s what family is all about; it’s learning how to roughhouse together and yet come out on the other end with a smile and joy on our face.

THE TYPING TEACHER

2008-09-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

Sandra Jones, one of my teacher friends who taught typing in the past, asked me if the old Royal typewriter was a manual or an electric? Duh? You’ve got to remember that this was in the early 1950s, and I don’t think there was any such thing as an electric typewriter in those days. You had to put some energy into every typing stroke in those days. You developed good finger muscles in the process.

My mother kept that typewriter for many years after I was gone from home. It finally broke down and was un-repairable, and I bought her one of those new fangled electric ones. That was back in about 1980, and I don’t believe she ever learned how to use it.

I realize that children can now “type” now from the beginning. It’s just something that comes in their DNA. They are either are at a keyboard or a cell phone keypad or some other new device that I’ve not heard about . . . from birth. That’s good. I’m sure that the future, for now, is still somehow tied to our finger muscles.

What about voice recognition. I’m sure it’s coming . . . soon!