I Am Blessed

While I haven't chronicled all of the wonderful things that have occurred in the last week, this has been a super Christmas--one of the best I remember. Many friends and family members have been incredibly generous to us. Many from our church family have expressed their love to us in amazing ways. God has really encouraged me this Christmas through His people.

Compared to the last few Christmases, I have spent more time with Terri and the kids this year. It has been awesome. God has blessed me with a precious family.

I've decided to continue to take some time away from the blog. I'll be back in 2009.

Pray for Boo White who will be preaching tomorrow in both services. He will be ordained by our church on January 4 in the evening service.

A Work Day in December?

1. This morning, some men and women gathered at the church to assemble several new tables we purchased for the children's building. Also, several large bulletin boards were installed. I really appreciate these folks giving up a Saturday morning at the height of the Christmas Rush.

2. This afternoon, many folks from FBC Leakesville provided food for the family of Herman Turner, who died on Thursday. The funeral was in the afternoon. The ladies who organized the meal did an incredible job. There was an abundance of food. The family was very appreciative.

3. Tonight, I preached in the chapel at the South Mississippi Correctional Facility. The service in which I participate is offered to the general population. There was, literally, standing room only. The men present were encouraging. The choir is a thrill to watch. The "get into it." That's a lesson for all of us.

4. Once I left the prison, I went and picked up my Terri and Jared to go a Christmas Party at the home of our members. We arrived around 8:20 PM and stayed for about an hour. We had a lot of fun.

Movie Night: It's A Wonderful Life

Well, it only took 44 years, but, I finally watched "It's A Wonderful Life" from the beginning to the end. I thought the movie was great. It takes a lot for a movie to keep my attention from the beginning to the end. Usually, I fall asleep before the conclusion of most flicks.

Again, I'm glad I watched it.

Vertical Integrity

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men (Luke 2:14, KJV).

As I read this simple song of the angels, I see three spiritual directions that are important for everyone to follow.

First, the angels focused their attention vertically. When decorating for Christmas, the selection of a fitting tree is traditional. When choosing a natural tree, the straightness of the perennial should not be taken for granted. Only trees that have balanced dimensions are considered to have the desired “vertical integrity” to please those who view them.

Spiritually, God expects all of us to have vertical integrity. David declared “I know also, my God, that You test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness (I Chronicles 29:17).” God is pleased by a person who “walks uprightly (Psalm 15:1-2).” We walk uprightly by giving God the honor and glory He deserves.

Second, the angels declared that Jesus came to work internally. The angels declared that the birth of Jesus brought peace. A fulfilling vertical relationship with God comes only after reaching “internal peace.” In addressing how this inner harmony with God can be obtained, Paul was inspired to write, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5:1).” So, vertical praise must be preceded by an internal transformation that Jesus referred to as being “born again (John 3:7).”

Third, the angels shared a truth that impacts humans horizontally. If God has changed our lives through a “new birth,” our lives will render a “horizontal generosity.” We, like God, should show “good will toward men.” It is fitting that Christmas is celebrated with the giving of gifts. God gave us Jesus, who is the greatest gift of all. So, at Christmas, we should give to people in need. God expects us to show goodwill to all people.

Consequently, may our lives mirror the truths of the angels’ song vertically, internally, and horizontally. Then, we will truly have, and share, a merry Christmas.

Way to Go Choirs!

Yesterday, the Sanctuary Choir and the Children's Choir both sang in the morning service. Then, in the evening, the musical, Christmas is Jesus, was presented. The children joined the choir for one of the songs in the evening. We had a great crowd. I told Mike Smith, FBC Minister of Music, that the choir members had wonderful expressions on their faces. I could since a lot of joy exuding from them. This musical had a simple, yet powerful message The varied musical styles included something for everyone.

Mike Smith ministers through music in a magnificent manner. God has truly blessed FBC Leakesville with Mike and, his wife, Selina.

Jesus is for Everyone

We continued to observe Advent this morning. Celebrating Advent has been enjoyable for me. I have been blessed by the families who have been a part of this observance.

This morning we added the third Advent Candle, the Candle of the Shepherds. The Shepherd’s Candle reminds us that God comes to people of various backgrounds. The shepherds were busy watching their flocks, which is a task many may consider mundane and insignificant. However, God chose to share the miraculous news of Jesus’ birth with folks who were common and down-to-earth. This candle represents God’s interest in the lives of all people.

I continued the Sermon Series The Songs of Christmas. These sermons are based on the praise poems recorded by Luke. Yesterday, we examined the song shared in Luke 2:14.

The angels proclaimed, "“ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men (Luke 2:14, NKJV)!”

This simple song communicates 3 important truths about God.

I. God Deserves Glory

II. God Delivers Grace

III. God Displays Goodwill

Leakesville Parade

Tonight, the city held their annual parade. FBC Leakesville entered a "float" into the event. Many children rode with us on the float. They were very generous with their "throws." We ran out of candy before we finished the route.

Thanks to everyone who had a part in providing the trailer, decorations, and candy. Boo White walked the entire route to make sure the kids were safe. He deserves special thanks.

Snow in Hattiesburg

Our daughter is enrolled in a child development program at the University of Southern Mississippi. She attends on Tuesday and Thursday. However, we have received word that, due to SNOW in Hattiesburg, they will not be having class today.

Since we lived in Alaska for over 3 years, snow doesn't excite me that much. Several mornings, I had to shovel a path just to get to my car. I don't miss that.

Since people are not accustomed to driving in the snow down here, there are usually a plethora of accidents. According to WDAM-TV, several accidents have occurred in "The Hub City." So, I'm glad Terri's staying home.

Budget Considerations

Tonight, we opened the floor for questions regarding our 2009 Budget. The Stewardship Committee has done a thorough and prayerful work in preparing the budget. We will vote on the budget Sunday Morning. No questions will be taken at that time. While the proposed budget will be challenging, last year's was as well. God's people were faithful in giving and we more than met last year's ministry needs.

Before the business session, I read the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). I believe every budget consideration should flow through these verses.

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

Basketball Practice

Jared experienced his first basketball practice this evening. He is playing in an Upward Basketball League at Memorial Baptist Church, not far from New Augusta, MS. I love upward sports because the kids are presented spiritual truths. The league places a focus on faith and fun. A far cry from what I've experienced in Soccer and T-Ball Leagues. That's why I'm willing to drive 80 miles round trip for Jared to be involved. He attended an Upward Basketball Camp at FBC Magee this past Summer.

Memorial Baptist is hosting the league. The church is "out in the middle of nowhere," but they have an incredible facility. I talked with one of the members of the church and he was thrilled by what the Lord was doing through their church. He was filled with excitement. This was so refreshing. He shared their long term ministry plan with me. What a blessing to find people serving God and blooming where they are planted.

Ordination Service

This afternoon, an Ordination Service was held for Richard Dykes, who has recently been called as pastor of New Beginnings Baptist Church. Several pastors gathered to assist with the "council" and the service. The first question Richard was asked related to his salvation experience. I love to hear testimonies of how people were transformed by Christ. Richard was filled with emotion as he shared how his life was changed the day he committed his life to Jesus. I was blessed by his testimony and I am so glad I was able to be involved in his special day.

The Simplicity of Bethlehem

This morning we will lit the second Advent Candle, the Candle of Bethlehem. The Bethlehem Candle reminds us that God can relate to us in all circumstances. As he promised, the Messiah came to us wrapped in human flesh and laid in a simple manger in Bethlehem. This truth communicates hope based on the knowledge that God is willing to meet us anytime and anywhere. When he comes, he meets our needs.

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting (Micah 5:2, NKJV).”

Calhoun City High Came Close

My alma mater, Calhoun City High, played for the 1A State Football Championship yesterday. They lost to Puckett 25-21. I am proud of the team. The coach, Mike Ray, graduated with me in 1983. City had the ball on the 6 yard line, fourth and goal, with 50 seconds left. They fell short...so close.

Christmas Sunday School Party

One of our Ladies Sunday School gathered for a Christmas party at "Hook, Line, and Sinker" in Agricola, MS. Terri and I, along with the rest of the FBC Staff, were invited. We had a great time of fellowship. I love our church.

Journey from Power to Pity: From Mt. Carmel to Mt. Horeb

In I Kings 17, an incredible prophet exploded upon the scene. With no fanfare, Elijah went right to work confronting the unfaithful King Ahab with the fact that, due to Israel's unfaithfulness, God was going to send a drought that would last three and a half years. Consequently, a famine spread throughout the land. During this time, God provided for Elijah by sending birds that brought him food (I guess this was the first fast food delivery in the history of the world).

The Showdown

In I Kings 18, God sends Elijah back to Ahab. A contest was arranged. Elijah would face 850 prophets of Baal and Asherah on Mount Carmel. Both sides would place a bull on an altar. Then, Elijah stated "You call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.”

The prophets of Baal cried out to their gods for 9 hours and with no results. Then, Elijah built his altar with twelve stones and place the sacrificial bull on it. Next, he prayed a short pray. Miraculously, fire fell from heaven and engulfed the altar. Even the stones were incinerated. God has spoken. Following this dramatic display of God's power, Elijah order the 450 prophets of Baal to be killed and they were.

Following God's victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah would pray to God for rain. God sent rain upon the land and the long drought was over.

Post-Victory Festivities

Elijah had stood "toe to toe" with hundreds of prophets and won. Now, you would think, he could parlay his success into even more victories. However, he moved from taking the stand of his life to running for his life. Follow five phases of his journey from the power of Mount Carmel to the pity of Mount Horeb. This is recorded in I Kings 19.

The Journey

I. Crisis in Fear (1-4)

James wrote that "Elijah was a man with a nature like ours (James 5:17)." We can see that he was human when we examine his reaction to Jezebel's murderous threat.

The Bible reveals, that when he heard that Jezebel planned to kill him, he left the Northern Kingdom and went to Beersheba, which is as far south in the nation of Israel as you can go. He went out into the wilderness, sat under a tree and prayed that he God would just kill him. What a change in just a few days.

II. Care From God (5-8)

God provided for Elijah's need through an angel. He gave him all the strength he needed for his upcoming journey to Mt. Horeb.

III. Confusion in Discouragement (9-10)

After an his estimated 250 mile journey, God asked an insightful question, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” In response, Elijah So he said, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.”

So, we find Elijah miles away from the power displayed on Mount Carmel.

IV. Confrontation With God (11-12)

Next, Elijah witnessed an amazing and profound demonstration of the presence of God.

"Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; 12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice (I Kings 19:11-13, NKJV)."

God reminded Elijah, He was a God of great power, but His presence was all he needed.

V. Comfort From God (13-18)

In response to Elijah despondency and doubt, God told him to "Go." God had a plan for him to anoint kings who would win victories for Israel. Also, he sent him to anoint Elisha, who would follow in his footsteps. While Elijah had felt all alone, God informed him that seven thousand faithful individuals were still in Israel. Elijah was alone. God was with him. Also, many followers of God shared his allegiance to the true God.

Travel Tips for the Journey

1. Be Careful- Watch how you handle success. Your greatest trial may come after your greatest victory.

2. Be Cautious- Take care of yourself-physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Certainly, Elijah was drained. We can see how he could have "burned out." We must take care of ourselves.

3. Be Comforted- God will take care of you. He knows what you need and when you need it. Trust Him.

4. Be Contemplative- While God is all powerful, he speaks in a still small voice. Spend time with God. While God is all powerful, we should never overlook his miraculous presence with us. We don't need miracles, we need God.

5. Be Confident-You are not alone. There will always be people who are true to God. Don't run into isolation. Seek opportunities to grow in unity with fellow followers of Christ.

The Final Word

Paul kept his focus on the Lord. He exemplified this when he wrote, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me (I Corinthians 15:10, NKJV) ."

Laying Low

Well, I've been convalescing at home following my procedure Wednesday morning. There have been no problems, as far as I can tell. I still feel weak. So, I'm going to take it easy for another day, just to make sure. Since I've experienced this procedure in the past, I know that even though I may feel great at one moment, too much exertion can cause problems.

Keeping an Appointment With the Lithotripter

Well, I'm leaving in a few moments to go to Springhill Memorial Hospital in Mobile, AL for lithotripsy. This is probably the fifth time I had this done. So, I'm very familiar with the procedure. Hopefully, I will only be "down" for a couple of days.

I'm blessed to have Ricky Dickson, Chairman of Deacons, willing to lead our midweek service. He is a great teacher. Also, Boo White, Student Minister, is on call to help with any ministry needs. What a blessing to have staff members and deacons willing and able to serve while I'm incapacitated.

Ministers and Wives Christmas Party

Tonight, the George-Greene Baptist Association hosted the annual Minister and Wives Christmas Party. This year we gathered at "Hook, Line, and Sinker" in Agricola. The fried catfish was fabulous. More importantly, I really enjoyed spending time with my fellow ministers and their spouses. Michael Barnett, pastor of FBC Ocean Springs, brought a great Christmas message. Preachers need to hear a sermon every now and then. Thanks to Tommy Mitchell and Jimmy Holcomb for planning such an inspirational and fun time.

A Drinkable Swiss Army Knife?

Each morning, I transport my daughter to Greene County High School. Our usual routine involves stopping at "Wildcat Corner," which is a convenience store near the school. Abbey likes to purchase a bottle of Vitamin Water from Glaceau. Her favorite flavor is the Multi-V Lemonade.

Creative Marketing

The manner a product is marketed is pivotal to it's commercial success. So, encouraging folks to purchase water supplemented with multi-vitamins is a task which requires a lot of creativity. I think the folks at Glaceau have taken creative packaging to a whole new level.

This is written on the bottle of their product in all lower-case letters:

well, we created this all-in-one product, containing more of the nutrients you need, from vitamin a to zinc. think of it as a drinkable swisss army knife. vitamins + water = all you need. made for the center for responsible hydration (Glaceau).

Now, how is that for marketing? All you need is a bottle of their water and your hydration needs will be met.

Incidentally, reading the spin on this product led me to think of how often we are told something is all we need. This claim is made by companies pushing "must have" washing detergents, power tools, and mouthwash.

All in All

Spiritually, we must remember that Jesus is all we need. Jesus said, "I am the Way." Paul, in Colossians 3:11, declared "...Christ is all and in all." Jesus is complete and he completes us. Over 100 hears ago, J. C. Ryle wrote:

The three words -- Christ is all -- are the essence and substance of Christianity. If our hearts can really go along with them, it is well with our souls.... Many give Christ a certain place in their religion but not the place which God intended Him to fill. Christ is not "all in all" to their souls.

Is Christ your all in all?

Unfortunately, many times we don't realize Christ is all we need until he is all we have. When we go through difficult times, our priorities are placed into focus. Then, we seek the eternal and, if honest, we affirm that Jesus is all we need.

The Children's Musical Was Awesome

Last night, the Children's Choir presented the musical "Glory to God in the Highest." They did a fabulous job. The songs were upbeat. Many of our children displayed a lot of "Soul." The energy and sense of fun they displayed was so appealing. I can tell their singing is improving.

Selina Smith has a special gift for working with children. Also, she has a mega dose of patience, which is needed to work with impetuous kids. Terri, my wife, likens directing children to "herding cats." It feels like that sometimes at our house.

The sanctuary was filled with parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and relatives of the children participating. Members of the Neely Baptist Church joined us for the service. They are renovating their sanctuary. So, they came and worshipped with us.