Song: " Come home, come home Ye who are weary come home..." 'Softly and Tenderly', written by Will Thompson, (1847-1909). Thompson was inspired to write this song after attending one of D.L. Moody's meetings. He visited Moody when D. L. was dying and the famous evangelist said this, "Will, I would rather have written ‘Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling’ than anything I have been able to do in my whole life."

I noticed a pastor of a local fellowship over in Louisiana was presenting a series for the new year entitled, "Refocusing". That sounds appropriate to me as we are already dealing with the 10th day of 2019, here on this Thursday. That refocusing theme reminded me of how easy it is for any of us to end up with distorted vision. The Apostle Peter wrote about how and why this can happen in a believers life in the first 9 verses of his second epistle (letter): "Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,  as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,  by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins." Notice he was writing to fellow believers. It can happen to anyone! If we fail to add those virtues to our Christian life, bad things, very bad things can result. The word shortsighted in the Greek is the word we get myopia from. Distorted vision. Blindness. And, the worst thing of all, one can forget they have been cleansed from their sins. Talk about a need to REFOCUS, not just as a metaphor, but as a reality. For me. For you. For us all. Amen.

No. I am not going to change my blog category into one that features mostly theological materials. I write about what I have in my heart and mind, therefore, if I tend, at times, to go on and on about spiritual matters, well, you can guess who most likely needs it the most. You got it right the first time! That very difficult trio that is always my toughest obstacle, Me, Myself, and I. It has been that way for a long time. Let me see, for at least the past 72 plus years. I could easily give you a lot of the ways one can tell if they have neglected to focus on those things God says are vital to our life for Him. How? Let me summarize it this way: Been there, done that. I know what preachers have said for years is true, "There's not much worse than a true believer who is out of the will of God." That distorted view becomes front and center and the things that should matter most are no longer on the front burner. Some seem to think this could not happen to them. Really? I would only say this about that. Even thinking that puts one closer to being there. Here's a verse for us all to consider: "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall." (The Apostle Paul's letter to the local fellowship meeting in Corinth, Greece, 1st Corinthians, Chapter 10, Verse 12, as rendered in the New King James Version, NKJV).

Ted Williams with Babe Ruth.

Last Monday, the wife and I went and walked at the mall. On our way back we stopped at the store to pick up some small bottles of water. Some of the mostly elderly folks we minister to at the apartments prefer water instead of coffee. I picked up one of those 24 packs and went to the checkout. The fellow behind me must have been in his early 40's. He was talking up a storm. He sounded like he was in sales. He grabbed a Hot Wheels car off the peg and said, "There it is. I wanted one for Christmas but I didn't get it. I'll just buy my own Lamborgini." With that, he threw it down on the conveyor. I looked back and handed him one of our Santa cards and told him next time he might want to ask the right person. He got hold of that card and acted like a kid. He seemed excited and happy. He went on, "Hey, this should be in your wheelhouse. What do you know about Ted Williams?" I told him I knew a little since he was one of the greatest major league hitters of all time. He then hit me with a couple of questions. I think he was getting them off of his cellphone. He asked if I knew why Ted Williams wore the number 9 on his jersey. I told him I didn't know. He said it was because he flew F-9 jets in Korea. He then asked if I knew the fellow who was Ted's wingman on many of his sorties. I admitted I didn't know. He said it was John Glenn, the famous astronaut and later respected US Senator. He told me if I had been able to answer those questions he would have allowed me to be his wingman for the day. What a character! The cashier was taking it all in and bobbing forth and back like a cork being hit by a fish. I'm not sure about the number 9 on his jersey. I couldn't validate that part of his story, however, it is true that Ted Williams and John Glenn flew many times in Korea as wingmen. The things you have happen to you when all you wanted to do was get some water. Fortunately, we were the only ones in line at that time. Enjoy the rest of your day and may God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. ....More later.

"The same Jesus Who turned water into wine can transform your home, your life, your family, and your future. He is still in the miracle-working business, and His business is the business of transformation." ~ the late Adrian Rogers, noted Pastor

I know many of you think I spend a lot of time in my blogs on recognition for birthdays and other important occasions. That is correct. It's a family thing. Today, Wednesday, January 9, 2019, we are pausing to wish the youngest of our eleven grandchildren, Brady Darrell, a happy 13th birthday. He is the baby boy of our baby boy. Brady is a remarkable young man and we thank God for him. We pray for him as he continues his journey and we ask God to lead, guide, and direct his way. He has always been so special to us. Have a great birthday! Our love, MiMi and Poppy. (Not to worry about our grands all growing up. We have the greats coming up behind them.)

I was working for the Big company when Brady's dad was born in 1971. He was our third and last child. I hadn't really talked much about us having another baby and when I took time off for the event, well, many of my coworkers were surprised. They hurriedly put together some gifts to recognize the occasion. There was some talk of how the Bible verse we learned better than others was the one saying we should be fruitful and multiply. (Genesis 1:28) Our three sons have given to us eleven grandchildren and our grandchildren have added to our clan some seven great-grandchildren. Our boys are roughly three years apart. Our special gatherings and celebrations were pretty small back when they were all young. Now, on those rare occasions when we can gather as many as can come, well, it is standing room only, but, in a most wonderful way. It was so good to have such a wonderful mixture of kiddos this past Christmas. An infant ready to be changed or rocked. One on her way to being a toddler. Several in-betweens, a good number of teens, and the marrieds and other twenty-somethings. Thank You, Lord, for our Family. Amen.

Christmas Day gathering - 2018.

I do thank those who take the time each day to read my stuff. Looking at the photo from this recent Christmas gathering reminded me of when it was just the wife and I and our first born. Now, look! And, yes, we did have a few missing. I do know what the wife and I care the most about as it relates to our family. We've made a sojourn that has put us both into the three score, ten-plus years of life here on the planet, and we believe the most important thing for each of those connected to us is that they know Jesus as their Savior and have the reality of His presence in their lives each day. We are happy for their accomplishments in school and in their job pursuits. We are pleased when they enjoy the blessings God has granted to them. However, the thing that drives our prayer life and our desire for our lineage is that we all, (each and everyone), will be together with the Lord forever and ever, Amen. The only way that can happen is for each one to respond to God's Gift of His Son who died in our place that we might be forgiven and made right with God. The Bible tells us that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. (Romans 10:13) This is our passion. This is our heart. This is our prayer. Amen. ....More later.

Ephesians 5:25 ".... even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;...."

Good morning and welcome to another ride along. This one has found us traveling together on Tuesday, January 8, 2019. The local fellowship of believers where we are members changed up the schedule during the Christmas and New Year holidays. We abbreviated our services for a couple of weeks to accommodate families. That seriously changed our routine. This past Sunday we returned to our regular schedule of services. The topic of conversation within our group was mostly about the relief folks were experiencing in returning to our weekly meeting schedule. I know a routine can become a rut. Back in the day when I was in management, they used to warn us about becoming too focused on 'our' routine because it could become detrimental to progress and innovation. As it relates to the local assembly, (Church), where we meet to seek God, learn more about Him, and to minister to each other, I think it is different. I think some routines and habits are very healthy. In the account given to us from the Gospel of Luke regarding our Savior at 12 years of age, we read, "His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast." (Luke 2:41-42) That was their habit. Jesus would later return to the local meeting place where He no doubt faithfully attended growing up, the Synagogue in Nazareth. In Luke Chapter 4, we find this record, "So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read." (Verse 16) As was His custom. When we are told not to neglect the showing up and participating in the local body, it is with good reason. (Hebrews Chapter 10). My point? There are some habitual habits that can be healthy. Actively functioning within the local assembly is one of them!

Yes. I am well aware that attending Church regularly does not make one a true Christian any more than being in a garage makes one a car. And, it is true that some observe the local assembly in name only as a ritual. God has warned us against those superficial motivations. However, I say to any and all that going is better than not going. There is always the opportunity for God to speak when we hear His Word being presented. Some say the Church is filled up with hypocrites and while I would disagree with that assessment, I do know that I would rather the hypocrites be in the services because God can get a hold of any of us at any time. Or, as our Pastor likes to say, "So, you think the Church is made up of mostly hypocrites, well, why don't you come join us, one more couldn't hurt?" Someone recently mentioned how that many folks don't attend any longer because they were hurt by a Church at some time in their past. Since the Church is made up entirely of people, not buildings and grounds, the potential for one being hurt as a result of rubbing elbows with others is quite high. In fact, my thinking says if you stay at it long enough, that potential is likely 100%. People don't always do the right thing even when they are acting as part of a local fellowship. Staying focused on the local body being a God-thing will help us all to deal with and overcome any obstacles to us fulfilling our calling.

I well remember a luncheon when I was at the Big company and was a department head. The folks I was having lunch with represented one of the major telecommunications enterprises. During our time together, the head of the group leaned over to me and said this, "I understand you are one of those Church people who go all the time. Is that mostly to make contacts and network for business reasons?" That came from out of the blue and I thought about it and finally said, "I go because I am a believer and my belief informs my reasons for being a part of the Lord's Church." He seemed a little shocked by that answer. One of his lieutenants offered this jewel, "The wife and I are neutral concerning religion and we have decided to let our children decide for themselves when they get old enough." I couldn't help but tell him, "You may think you are being neutral but there is a high probability your children will end up thinking mostly just like you." All of this dialogue was done in a very positive manner. Sad to say, there have been other times when I could have done a better job giving testimony to why serving God is a reasonable response for what He has done for me. Being one of those 'Church people' is not a bad reputation. Okay. I had no idea I would be serving up a sermonette today, but, I sat down at the keyboard and this is what came forth. Have a great rest of the day and may God add His blessings. Amen. ....More later.

Happy 9th Birthday to our Madi-girl, (Madelyn Joy)!

Welcome back to my infinitely minuscule portion of the 'blogosphere', here on this Monday, January 7, 2018. Today is another important day in the life and times of our clan. It is the 9th birthday of our very first great-granddaughter, Madelyn Joy, or Madi-girl as we call her. (She is the first child of our first grandchild, Tiffany, which makes her the first grandchild of our eldest, Chris.) She carries her name well, Joy. And, she does bring it with her when she is with her great grands, MiMi and Poppy. We pray God's hand of protection and blessing on this child, in Jesus Name, Amen. Happy Birthday to our Madi-girl. We do hope you enjoy the card we sent. Our love, MiMi and Poppy.

Speaking of grandchildren, the other day I finished my walk at the mall and was catching my breath by sitting at one of the tables in the food court. Across the way, I saw a young woman who may have been in her late teens, and she was engrossed in conversation. The person she was talking to was her grandfather. She wasn't fiddling with her cell phone or other distractions, she appeared to be enjoying their conversation. I caught back up with them as I was leaving the mall. It was raining outside. She told her grandpaw to take the umbrella. She then pulled her jacket up over her head and they left to find their vehicle. Something about the respect and devotion she showed touched me and spoke to my heart. As they were in conversation I could tell he was so very proud to have that time with her. I thought of what God has told us about respecting our elders. The command to Israel from Leviticus, "Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged. Fear your God. I am the Lord." (Chapter 19, Verse 32, as rendered in the New Living Translation, NLT.)

You do know that I am a noticer. In fact, that's what you find in my daily blogs, many of the things I notice as I make my way through life. I haven't always done everything the way I should. But, you knew that already, however, I am so very thankful that I not only learned but did my best to show love and respect to my elders. My grandparents. My parents. My in-laws. I'm certainly not bragging but so thankful that God allowed me to honor them while they were still with us. There were times when I should have done even more, but, God helped me to learn from those lapses. I could have but didn't leave the Houston area to visit my grandfather when he had surgery in Shreveport, Louisiana. My uncle was with him and assured me everything was okay. That evening, Paw Paw developed a blood clot and it went to his heart and he passed on to his reward. I wish I had gone. But, I learned. Sometime later, they called and told me Granny Mac was in the hospital in Beaumont for a procedure, I dropped everything at work, and drove over to be with her. Not learning new tricks, just being reminded of the blessings God had given me through the people He placed in my life. That young woman will never regret the time she spent on a rainy day talking forth and back with her grandfather. May God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. ....More later.

“The biggest challenge after success is shutting up about it.” ~ Criss Jami, Author

It may be hard to believe, but, here we are, the first Friday of 2019, January 4. I've been hearing a lot about the way to get ready to face the new year so as to maximize one's effectiveness. One fellow posted a word of encouragement to his fellow gym users. He told them not to worry about not being able to find a close parking space because these folks will all be gone soon enough and everyone's regular spaces will become available again. How true. In fact, I think exercise equipment is one of those types of appliances that goes by the wayside faster than almost any other. You see it all the time. Almost brand new for sale at a fraction of its original price. I suppose we can take some heart in the fact that many of us are trying. We plan to walk on a more frequent basis this year. My previous doctor who is now a medical missionary to Africa used to tell me that if I can just walk some it's better than not walking at all. I know. That sounds trite but there's truth in what he advised. I now have more time to devote to walking and I do know it does a body good. It does. It really does. I do get amused at some of my fellow walkers at the mall. The wife and I were there yesterday and a couple of the ladies were practicing their power walking. Either that or they were in a big hurry. One of them was flailing her arms like she was waving down someone to help out in an emergency. The other was pumping her arms up and down like a choo-choo train. And, they were talking about the same speed as they were walking. They were moving on down the walkway. Good for them!

I guess I was waxing all spiritual and motivational eleven years ago in January of 2008 when I wrote this ditty: "New year, new day, and another opportunity to pursue the calling that God has on my life. That's right. THE CALLING. Most of us think 'the calling' is only for those who become full-time pastors, missionaries, or other Church workers. This is not a correct view at all. If you are a believer and have put your trust in Jesus Christ, then you have a relationship with Him and He has a calling on your life. Forget about the labels, full time as opposed to lay person, each believer is called to serve, and God has equipped each person with a unique talent, gift, or ability to fulfill their calling. Many don't pursue their calling because they just haven't learned the truth about it. In that famous meeting on the shoreline of Lake Galilee, Jesus asked Peter three different times if he loved Him. Each time Peter fumbled for an appropriate answer but Jesus responded each time with the same charge, "Peter, if you do love me, show it by taking care of my sheep, my lambs, my flock." That was the Apostle Peter's calling on his life. He had one and I have one and you do too. (see John chapter 21) It's easy to say we haven't been given the ability to do something for the Lord in terms of giftedness. However, this can't be true because the Bible tells us that each one of His own has been given a specific gift in order to serve Him and the needs of those around them. (see 1st Corinthians chapter 12) When people ask me how to find out what they should be doing in response to the truth about God's gift in their life, I always tell them to get involved in ministry, seek God's direction for serving, and He will make it known to you. Being willing to serve anywhere at any time is a pretty good place to start in our pursuit of knowing exactly the special talent God has given to us."

I'm already getting started on the book work required to support the paying of my taxes. I am thankful to be able to pay my taxes. I know it is my duty, and, it is commanded and commended by God, (Romans 13:7) Knowing this and doing my best to do my duty does not necessarily make me feel happy happy about it. I thought the Charlie Brown comic well illustrates this feeling we have regarding the tax system we are under. My main issue is how older people are treated in the tax code when they decide to keep on working. But, 2018, was my last year to be drawing a regular paycheck each week, therefore, my situation will be changing. Yep. I still have the Santa Enterprise to deal with. The feds do like the proceeds from our seasonal professional work. If you ask me, and I know, you didn't, older folks who are able and willing to supplement their waning years by working should be applauded, not punished. I do need to go back and check the actual hearing of Charlie Brown's exclamation because I'm almost positive I will recognize it if it resonates with my angst. (Mine is akin to one of those large whales who is angry and wailing out his frustrations. Wailing, no pun intended.) Some of this was written tongue in cheek. Some. I good part of it is as serious as a heart attack. I used to hear that one a lot, not so much anymore. At any rate, do not be misled. I am very thankful to be in a position to add up resources that require additional taxes. I'm pretty sure that is an accurate statement. I report. You decide. Have yourself a great Saturday and then on Sunday, The Lord's Day, let's all get off on the right track by showing up at the meeting place where God is sought after, preached, sung about, and prayed to. That's my intention. What about you? See you next time, Lord willing. Amen. ...More later.

Somewhat discombobulated, but, I did show up to be counted this morning.

I wasn't able to get to my blog yesterday. We had out of town guests and I didn't climb the stairs to The Home Office. However, I am here today.

Good morning and welcome to Thursday, January 3, 2018. I have a confession to make, right off the bat. Although some 45 million Netflix accounts accessed a movie entitled Bird Box, I did not. Since this was the accounts, they further estimate that many were watched by more than one person. There you go. I suppose I should be glad that I no longer need to be able to discuss anything at the proverbial watercooler. I did look it up only to find out it is one of those horror oriented movies that I have zero interest in. Zero. Nada. As in, not now or ever. I'm not looking down on those who did watch it. They say the demand increased as people began to talk about it on social media. They can talk all they want to, I'm still not interested. I even saw a preacher on Facebook saying he decided he needed to watch it because so many of his people had done so. Really? I didn't watch any of the NFL games. Yep. I am still in boycott mode. By some accounts that makes me a racist. I don't think I am. But, when you don't do what others tell you to do they tend to label you. If it helps, the wife and I did watch a two hour Columbo movie on Sunday evening. (The star, the late Peter Falk's paternal grandparents, Louis, and Ida Falk were Russian Jewish immigrants. Peter's maternal grandfather, Peter Hochhauser, was a Hungarian Jew, and Peter's maternal grandmother, Rosa Heller, was a Czech Jewish immigrant from what was then Bohemia. This must prove I am not a racist. Just saying.) All of his Columbo shows are pretty unpredictably predictable, but, old people tend to like them, and we are them, therefore, I suppose we are in good company. (Too many commercials, but, it comes with the program.) I did watch the LSU football game Tuesday where they played in the Fiesta Bowl against the University of Central Florida (UCF). The final score: LSU 42 UCF 32.

I also noticed an important birthday anniversary this week. It's one well worth everyone taking a moment to recognize and appreciate. It's one connected to my home state of Louisiana. That is a good long run for a family owned and operated coffee company. And, as most of you are aware, I am committed daily to enbibing their product and doing all I can to keep them profitable. Happy Birthday, Community Coffee, and thank you for your long years of providing excellent coffee. You can quote me if you like. No need to call for permission.

I woke up this morning and realized it was still pouring and had been raining since yesterday before noon. We have water standing everywhere. They had predicted as much as 4 inches in some spots. I will be surprised if we are not in one of those spots. I know firsthand what that does to those who have to commute across the metroplex. Very treacherous. It can be that way even nearby. This much rain used to cause some across the road flooding on my route to the office. Since I went in early I had to be especially careful because visibility was typically very poor in these types of conditions. But, here I sit, at my computer, (once I got the internet up and working. it may have been waterlogged.), and I no longer have to do that commute, but, I do offer a prayer for those who are out there in it. I do hope you are off to a good start in 2019. We have mostly enjoyed good food and company but we do have things that need to be attended to as we continue our journey. Remember, God is with us, no matter what, always and forever, beginning and end of the story. Amen. ....More later.

Goal for 2019: "....that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness." Ephesians 4:22-24, New King James Version NKJV

La Marque, Tx.

Good morning and welcome to where all things are new. Maybe not, but, it does sound good as we turn the page from 2018 and find ourselves here on this Tuesday, January 1, 2019. God gave us time. He has a lot to say about it in His word. He would have us to pay attention to it, especially as it relates to how we live out the life He has given to us. I know the wife has a big home-cooked meal planned for today. That is a favorite tradition of mine. Most of you know the wife and I made a short trip last week after we concluded our Santa and Mrs. Claus commitments along with enjoying a wonderful family Christmas. We needed a break. At least, we convinced ourselves that we did. I believe the wife used the R and R term as a way to describe our getaway. Most people define that as rest and recreation. I had thought the second R would have meant recuperation, given our condition, however, it became recreation, on steroids. We left last Thursday and made our way towards Galveston, Island. On the way, we stopped and had lunch with our granddaughter Danielle and her mom. We had a wonderful time. We then continued on our journey, arrived at our hotel, got checked in, and turned around and left again for an outing to something called Magical Winter Lights. We walked and walked, looking at all the beautiful festive lighting, and then we walked some more. They featured an acrobatic team from southwest China, and, the show we saw was amazing. What these athletes could do with their bodies, working together, kept everyone on the edge of their seats. That was definitely worth the price of admission. After that, we left and went to a late dinner, then back to the hotel to try and capture the first R, rest.

Chinese acrobatic team.

The second day was a sleep in day, for at least one of us. I had taken my Community Coffee and my little coffee maker with me, so, even though I was up early, everything was right in the world. We had some breakfast, got ready and went to the movie theater where we watched the new animated remake of The Grinch. It was the same story with a little twist but the graphical representation was really stunning. We finished up there and headed down to Galveston. There we drove down to the seawall and then over to one of the popular tourist attractions, Moody Gardens. We were there to experience something called Ice Land. We walked a long way to get to the place to get to the tickets before we could get to stand in line for the next group. Once we got in, they issued us parkas to wear because the temperature is kept at 9 degrees to protect the ice sculptures. It was really cold in there. It really was. The ice sculptures were representative of the two poles, from South to North. We really enjoyed ourselves. After that, we left and went to a place where we have eaten for over 40 years, Gaido's, on the seawall. We enjoyed a late lunch/early dinner and sat there watching the Gulf and enjoying some of the best seafood around. (I could remember when the same meal was perhaps 1/3 of what it is now.) We got back to our hotel and the discussion became focused on which R to pursue. I was for the first R, but, we ended up going back to the movie theater and seeing the new version of Mary Poppins. I know what many of you are thinking. Have I lost my ever loving mind? Finally, we got back to our hotel and I was able to re-visit the first R.

Our visit to the deep freeze.

We got up Saturday morning, got ready, checked out, went for a nice breakfast, then, our second R excursion focused in on visiting something called the Tanger Outlet Mall. We found some items and we walked some more. And, some more. We then left to return home and on our way, we visited our local Best Buy to pick up a new computer tablet for the person who truly loves the second R. She is excited and has already watched one of THOSE movies on it. So there you have it, we start the new year all recreated and still waiting for the resting part. (Joking only.) We did have a wonderful three-day getaway and so enjoyed our time together. That was not a paid political announcement. It happens to be the truth. Now it is on to a new opportunity in a brand new year. I started to say a clean slate, but, I'm not sure that's how it works, but, I am certain that God has something for us all to do. May He help me to get on with it. And, you too! Amen. Happy New Year, and may God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.