Retiring Blog

Regards to any who might have read this blog in the past.  It seems I've busied my life with so much else that the good intentions have been over written by just daily living.  Hoping something written in the past may have encouraged you, and that you will pursue life with everyday focus on what's most important ... allowing God to be first and next, your family of greatest importance above all "things".

Life is one day at a time and our life is but a vapor, so make each day worth living to the fullest, without regret.  As we live today as unto the Lord, tomorrow will take care of itself.  Living in the past will not provide for the future.  Today is yesterday's tomorrow ... don't miss today, worrying about tomorrow.

Are you ready should your life end today to stand before our Creator, God?  You can be, but only by receiving by faith, the gift of God?  "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ" .. and "ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God."

For God so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

For the present, and since I've not written for the past seven months, I now plan to retire this blog until further notice.

Until we meet again,
Roger

Yes .. It's Officially Spring

The calendar seems to dictate what season we're in ... but does it ever look "outside", or better still go "outside"?  Today it is actually a Spring like day .. great temperatures with snow in the morning and no need for a coat by evening.  It is Ohio remember.

Enjoyed the sunshine either way, got a ride in on my bike (pedaling of course) and exercise is good for me no matter what the temperature.  My demeanor seems to improve with motion and warmth, and of course the prospect of even warmer temperatures to follow doesn't hurt my mood either.

Hope it's good weather where you are and you're able to enjoy a little of it while we have it.  It sure is something all of us seem to have in common.

I know we are not created with the sole purpose of living based on the weather.  We have a higher purpose and calling.  While we allow this body to dictate our moods and often times our generosity toward others, I do know we have God's grace and His promises to be our true gauge of how to live.  He says we can do all things through Christ Who dwells in me (us), if we receive Him by faith (John 3:16) but so often we neglect to listen to what the Spirit of God in us is trying to show us and where He's trying to lead us ... in other words, it requires obedience to God.

The steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord .. orders are therefore given, but it's our obedience to those orders that bring the fruit.  He says also, commit your works to the Lord and He will establish your thoughts ... sounds like what I not only need, but want, to happen in my life.  I so desire to prosper in what I set my hand to, .. to fulfill His purpose in life, each day, not just occasionally.  There is a plan for my life (and yours), for good and not for evil.  He will perfect (bring to completion) those things that concern me, again if I cooperate by acting on the Word, not just hear it and keep doing what I've been doing.  (We can't keep doing what we do the same way, but expecting different results!)

My past does not define who I am, or Whose I am, unless I yield to that.  Today decides tomorrow when I live it according to His direction.  Today is not intended to be built on the weather or circumstances I do not control.  Today is about choices I am able to make.  Choices are not designed to be based on feelings, ... feelings physically, socially, or even mental assent.  We were created to be Spirit, Soul, and Body, .. but we live so much of our lives just the opposite ... Body, Soul, and Spirit.  We are to be spirit led when we receive Christ and become a new creation .. to live by the spirit is life, but to live by the flesh (body and/or soul) is death.

My choice today is to choose life, and that more abundantly through Jesus Christ.  I am very thankful that the weather is changing day by day, progressing fully into Spring again.  It happens every year, and thus the seasons continue as God said they would.  I'm a comfort creature like most, but I do learn to find comfort and enjoy life no matter what the season brings, always looking forward to the time when it's just like I prefer it, but God has made a way to see His creation as beneficial to my life when I stop and just give thanks for the breath I breathe, and that the life I now live is one of freedom from the past, forgiven, chosen, and blessed to be His child, in His kingdom.

Don't you just love life, no matter what the season?  My praise goes out to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ for another new day, full of opportunity to love, give, and to be loved by God first, but know I'm loved by others as well.  It's also a blessing to know you are loved and we have fellowship because of Him.

Bless the Lord oh my soul and all that is with in me, bless His Holy name!

Spring .. Yes!

If you're like me, I am certainly more than ready for this weather to move on to Spring.  Did I see a post that says 9 more days till the official start of Spring? .. not that I'm counting!

You bet your blue budding flowers I'm counting and fully expect to enjoy being outside again, everyday!  I am thankful that God provides change through the seasons, and of course like you, I have my favorite times of the year.  It is refreshing to know also that God provides change in our seasons of life and as I grow older in the count of years, I do look back at times and see what God has been up to in the changes I haven't always wanted.

He shows us how to be more like Him, and He grants us the desires of our hearts when we follow Him.  I know that He never leaves me, nor has He ever forsaken me.  In every season of my life, God has been at work in me by His Spirit, to refine and bring me forward in the plans He has for me.

Let us rejoice again today, for the new season arriving soon in the natural, and also rejoice that where we are today won't always be that way, .. He has more if we'll just follow His direction and trust Him, with the good times we know, but in the times that aren't so good .. because He is ever faithful.

God is Good, All the time!

Wow .. been too busy to blog?

Seems like it's been forever since I logged on and put into writing what's on my heart.  Truth is, this journey has had so many plates full of everyday that I've allowed the time to take me, rather than taking the time to reflect on my life and all that God has been at work in me to bring continued transformation .. for what reason?  To be more like Jesus!  As I just heard this past week from someone who is far more eloquent, He wants me to be an instrument for His glory.

So often my desires like many, is to pursue career, dreams, goals, and lifelong accomplishments for the sake of a title, position, credit, and recognition of one sort or another.  To offer comfort to those around me, or to please those I am trying to serve, hoping to find comfort in being productive and fruitful.  While that may have elements of merit, it does not, has not, never will, .. fulfill what God has in mind for my life.  All the above seems to become idol worship, rather than the worship God desires for Himself .. He created me for fellowship with Him and to bring glory to His Name through worship of Him alone.  He is a jealous God, .. because He will share His glory with no one.  Too deep to wrap my mind around? .. no, but it does mean yielding my life totally to Him and not some image of who I think He is ... He knows me, and wants me to truly KNOW Him.

My trust in Him is growing, and to trust means to know something about or know who that trust is given to.  I am learning that when I put my trust (faith) in Him alone, I don't have to use up my life figuring out how, when, where, etc.  However, it does mean I have to let go of what I'm trying to make happen, and listen to what He says and then obey it.

Some will say they don't want to use foul language because they don't want God to hear it, but the same ones will say, He doesn't hear me when I pray .. go figure that!  The problem I have had, is feeling like my prayers weren't answered and trying to find a way to get Him to hear me.  The real problem is, I haven't been listening and more so, not obeying.  Answers come as yes, no, or not now (means waiting).

In trying to be more like Jesus, it means listening and then doing what He says.  We listen to the voice of the enemy that says you can't make it, you're failing, why not make a choice you know isn't right, don't forgive because they hurt me, or too many other deceptive lies to count, and at the same time I complain I can't hear His voice, when He says love your neighbor, help someone in need, give and it will be given, turn from your ways to My ways, ask someone I've offended for forgiveness ... duh .. now who would speak that to me?  Surely not the devil, so I can not say He isn't speaking, nor can I say I can't hear His voice.

Just wanted to do a little open dialogue with myself, but in writing this, I am hoping it not only is my reminder, but as you read this, may it be some momentary help that might encourage you to know, God is at work in each of us, .. each one who comes to God, believing that He is and that He's a rewarder (not a taker) of all who diligently seek Him.  It must be my priority, first things first, to follow Him, to turn from my wicked ways, to pray, and ask God to not only forgive me, but to cleanse me .. renew a right spirit in me, and draw me to Him day by day.

A journey requires the first step, and let me say, until we make that first step toward Him, He cannot enable us to take the remaining steps of this journey to complete our trip, and enduring one.  Without a start, no marathon will happen, nor will anyone win .. to those who endure there is a reward when the journey is completed.  Oh, to hear Him say well done my good and faithful servant.  That means more than any title, position, credit, or pat on the back from anyone in this life.

Take heart all!  With God all things are possible and our pastor's version of that is, "it's impossible for God to do nothing".  Let's give our all to Him and look forward to "until we meet again".

Yep, this is Roger and I believe I can do all things through Christ ..

So God Is Real?

ABSOLUTELY .. the heavens declare His glory! .. just look around at all of nature, and whether I like it or not (at times), just a look in the mirror.  Glad to know I didn't come from a monkey and I am "fearfully and wonderfully made" .. (He said that!)  When anything is left to itself, it does not get better, it begins to fall apart in everyday language.  Try leaving anything living without food, nurturing, and the care of those who love life and are willing to tend to it.  Even inanimate objects fall apart .. try leaving your house abandoned without maintenance for a year ... it does not do well and will need "fixing" when you return .... so don't tell me evolution can produce humans with intellect, strength of mind, strength of body, and definitely strength of spirit.

God created us individually, and He created us to have companionship .. first with Him, but here on earth and in heaven for eternity, fellowship with others. .. He does not leave us to ourselves to see if we get better either!  The Holy Spirit continually provokes us to see the truths of God and to grow up in a relationship with Him .. not a "religion", which is really just a social club to make us feel good.

God has provided for each of us (world around) to have what we need and much more.  His blessings are for all who will trust Him and allow Him to use our lives for the benefit of others.  It's more blessed to give than to receive, and we are blessed to receive also.

Today, is the day of salvation, but we can wait too long, ... thinking we can do it on our own.  Like I said, anything left to itself will deteriorate (fall apart), but with God through Jesus Christ as our Savior, we blossom and grow into a fruitful purpose.  Evolution can never do that either!

For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son (Jesus Christ) that whoever believes in Him shall never perish, but have everlasting (to the full) life.  John 3:16

Spring is Coming!

Yes, I'm looking forward to another Spring, but this year in our newer house.

It's been a little while since I've been here, but thought I'd give it another go and get 2013 rolling.

Since September  of 2012, we've been busy as bees in spring and squirrels in the fall, with the changes we've made in this newer house.  Built in 2005, it has good bones and a great layout, but fixtures and cosmetics definitely were in need of a coat of paint, carpet, light fixtures, added ceiling fans, and last maybe, the yard which is now straight ahead.

But, before we could even think about much of that, beginning January 3rd, we have been going through rehab/restoration after a right shoulder repair of her rotator cuff and some other repair (once the surgeon opened up the shoulder).  She is doing well, but it's been a long winter in close quarters, feeling confined (both of us at times), yet .. we've been determined and dedicated to the task of daily exercises and doing what was difficult to physically accomplish.  As a caregiver, you soon find out what it means to "wash someone's feet", etc. and help without taking thought of what might be awkward, .. because we're committed to each other for life and all that comes with it.

Now that the transition has been made from a large dependence on your mate to driving again, and back to the work schedule everyday, we can also look forward to planning time to just enjoy what we've taken for granted until the surgery.  Can you write your name (signature) with your opposite hand? .. and can you curl your hair with the opposite hand? .. among other essentials, we don't realize what we do by reflex everyday, all our lives, until you no longer have the range of motion, and/or strength to accomplish.  Doctor said this was a six month rehabilitation/recovery so I think she's doing very well, as does her physical therapist.

God is so good (all the time) and we are afforded many freedoms and opportunities.  But, knowing God is so good and loves each of us, sometimes we have to be that "love of God" to someone around us, who is disabled, or invalid, due to no fault of their own (or even if it was their fault), because He said "love your neighbor" (which includes family of course).  Who do people see us as and is it possible they are seeing Jesus in our acts of kindness and support? The drink of water, the washing of the "feet" so to speak, the help with a chore or an errand, or to be blessed with food they might be short on?  It's all easy to say, and easy to read about someone else's story, but today again we have not only the opportunity, but the mandate from the Spirit of God, to bless others, starting with your own family and reaching to the uttermost, as God brings them across our paths.

Come on Spring .. we're looking for warmer weather, outdoor activities, time off for a few days of vacation maybe, but the season when things are growing again, coming alive with potential.  Winter and convalescing seems to keep us self focused, but God's love is meant to reach not only to us, but through us.  Life even in a simple way of understanding, means growing, thriving, going beyond where we've  been and enjoying the journey.  Sharing life brings the real joy of any journey.

Make it a great day and love someone by acts of kindness, from the heart .. His heart through your heart!

Farewell 2012

Whew it's been a fast year full of challenges, a total move to a new house, another grandchild, and a dry one for us.  So, yes, it's also been void of posting since last January as well.  Too many irons in the fires I suppose, but then it's all been worth it.

God has been, and is so faithful to our family, and yes to Pam and me!  We know He has been at work in the details.

I can only say stay tuned and check in occasionally for more details of this Mays family of 5 children, and 16 grandchildren!

More later,
Roger

What Is Faith?

God's Word says "have faith.." which means you can have it.  So what is it, and how do I get that?

God gave us freewill, and with that He says we have choices.  Love is a choice, as is forgiveness.  If we wait for feelings, all of us have feelings that betray us and are more often than not based on circumstances, and we will make some pretty sorry choices.  All of us make choices we regret.  It may not be that we get to do it over again, but even if we do, what we base our choices on might still prove unreliable.

Faith then is a choice, to know God!

How do we then find out enough to "know" God?  Knowing is a term of intimacy and endearment.  We know people we say, but really we're just knowing "about" them.  When I know you, I can say he/she would do things this way, or would not do things that way.  It's because we know character, not just about them.  God's character is just that; He is not a man that He would lie, and what His will is, will also be for our best, not necessarily what is comfortable or even fun, but it works out for our best and to His glory.  To "know" God, we must spend time "with" God.

So again, how do I have faith?  I give Him my life and listen for what He says, and He says "have faith" just the same as if He would say, "have a cookie".  It's yours for the taking, and of course to live by for Him .. "have faith in God .."  Mark 11:22.  A measure of faith is yours when you accept Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, by His shed blood on the cross.  Yet He says to believers, have faith.  When we spend time with Him, we will take His Word and simply "have faith".  Faith then simply, is knowing God.

When we know Him, our lives change day by day as we walk in that faith!  Faith in God, is simply put, .. trusting God.

So why do I argue with God about my life and what He says? Because I'm not trusting Him to know what's best for me, but when I'm living what's best, it's also for the best for my family and all those around me.  That's the greatest way to live and victory is mine when I do.

Thank God that we can "have faith"!

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Southern Body in a Norther Climate 8<(

A glance to the right reveals a climate I prefer.  This body has reeled every winter at the thought of spending days in a climate where I shiver at the thought of emerging from my nice warm bed first of all, then my nice warm house.

So many clothes to wear just to check the mail, after, I shovel the driveway.  (At least I work up a sweat that way.)  What 's a guy to do to get his family to ALL move to a warmer state?

I am warmed by the thought of all my grandchildren who will greet me with smiles that melt the heart of the most frigid personality.  How can I be so focused on my own chill bumps of the cold weather, when I have the opportunity to have chill bumps over such a blessing of arms wrapped around my legs (as I drag them down the hallway) and kisses of (whatever they ate last) on my cheek.

Guess it's a price I've been willing to pay, only, .. can I just not let them grow up?  Do I have to return to my warm house and warm bed, without knowing I will again enjoy the warmth of my children and grandchildren?  Not gonna happen as long as I can get out of the driveway!

Here's a scene that is beautiful to the eyes, and hard on this southern body, but I am reminded to rejoice in the Lord always, and again .. (Paul had to rub it in) .. I say rejoice!  So with the thought in mind that someday, not far away, I will get to shed the Carharts and long johns and find again the warmth that this southern body longs for, I will stay here in cold Ohio.

And, Spring is only a couple months away now.  I can almost here the Crocus, tulips, and daffodils squirming underneath the ground, trying to ready themselves to pop out for all to see and enjoy.

Today, I will not quit.  Today I will have a cookie.   Today I will put my trust in the God of all the climates, remembering each time I see a rainbow, He is still faithful to His Word.  Because He lives, I can face tomorrow and live today in joy!

He is my Rock, my Strength!  If you know Him, then trust Him with me.  If you don't know (a term of intimacy and endearment), then you can, just by asking Him to fill you with His gift of Life.  Why not accept Him today, fully, completely, giving Him your all, not just parts.  Then you too can rejoice!

It's Today And What's Ahead That Counts!

Whew, where did the time go? A year certainly I can say I'm glad is behind me, but I believe it's valuable to re-view and remember in order, first to give thanks, then to realize we are called to go forward, not dwelling on present or past difficulties, or perceived failures.


When we truly believe that "the steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord" then, can we actually say we failed, .. or was it a time of testing our metal (faith)? I can say I would like to have realized a better outcome in a particular area of challenge, but today, I am at peace with where I believe God has me.

Take stock of last year only to improve this year and allow God to renovate what might have been damaged or even destroyed. Some things need to die, but often we are just in need of a renewed vision to propel us forward to something better, and God is a restorer! "The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus came that we may have life and that more abundantly (quantity and quality)" John 10:10. We, by choices, can invite what God has for us, by obedience to what His Word says. We cannot say as Bing Crosby says, "I did it my way". It has to be God's way, the truth and the life (by Jesus Christ) to reach agreement .. repentance, "by grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God ..". We cannot earn it by doing all the good things on earth.

Ask Him today if you are in right relationship, then listen for that voice of the Holy Spirit that will let you know, if something is standing between you and God, and if you're willing to repent of that, you will find yourself with a sense of His peace, knowing you are either ready or knowing what it is you need, to be ready.  Cast your cares on Him, because He cares for you.

Prayer is simply talking to God. Faith is simply believing God. Believing God means you're willing to agree with Him and do what He says. Forgiveness from God is simple, as simple as being offered a cookie and you accept it. Forgiveness of God then means you have the power and choice to forgive others. Without forgiving others we do not receive forgiveness from God (He said that, I didn't), but then comes the peace of God that defies understanding, and His joy follows.

We have a new day and new days to look forward to!

David Wilkerson

On Thursday, April 27th, 2011, a "general" in the faith went home to be with the Lord suddenly due to a car accident in Texas.  He was 79 years of age and was a faithful servant of God, preaching the gospel of Christ's salvation offered to us by His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension to heaven, soon to return.

Author of the Cross and the Switchblade, he went to New York to preach the gospel in the streets to young men of gangs and drugs, and all that went with the lifestyle of boys and young men considered too hard for society, often incarcerated for the crimes committed due to gang life.

Not much is being said by the mainstream media, but throughout many Christian circles, he is very respected and will be greatly missed.  His legacy of faithfulness to the true Gospel of Christ will be with us for a long time.

His wife Gwen, is still hospitalized and was in critical condition, but is expected to pull through.  Our prayers and support go out to her and their family.  Let's each one draw near to God with full assurance of the promises we have through the Word of God, that a place is prepared for Rev. David Wilkerson, and for each of us who are ready also to meet the Lord at an appointed time which may be when the Lord returns or our appointed time before.

The day of His appearing approaches faster than anyone can know, but take heart, even at the passing of our generals, we will all be reunited at the true Royal Wedding when the "bride" meets the "bridegroom" when He returns.  Get ready!

It's Friday, but Sunday is coming!!

We are now in observance of the greatest events in history to those who believe, and those who have yet to believe?  Why, .. because whether you believe or not, God cannot deny Himself or His gift to us, His Only Son, Who came to this planet earth, fully God, and fully man to pay a price He did not owe for man who does owe a debt he (we) cannot pay.  Jesus gave His life for you and me on a cruel cross, tortured and shamed in my place, so that I can be restored to a right relationship with God, cleansed and made whole.

"He was wounded for my transgressions, He was bruised for my iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes I was healed".  All of my needs were met on that cross the day He died, .... but the victory came when He arose from the grave victorious over death and hell.

He died on Friday, but Sunday morning, He got up!!!  We have hope beyond all imagination, to receive life, and that more abundantly through Christ because Satan couldn't keep Him in the grave.  In order to believe there is a God (and there is) we have to believe there is a devil loose as well and he intends to keep you from accepting Jesus Christ for the payment of your sin.

Wow, I said "sin" .. yes, all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus.  For by grace are you saved by faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, lest any man  boast.

We believe with the heart and confess with the mouth to receive salvation.  It's time to celebrate the resurrection of Christ, for without the empty tomb, we only have religion and that will not save us.

Let's rejoice in the fact that He Lives, He Lives, Christ Jesus lives today!

No Animals Were Harmed!

When one lives in the country, there are visitors that show up uninvited, and some who choose to stay.  Needless to say, the living arrangements may not be agreed upon and often results in choices of who stays and who goes.  Such is the case of the furry critters I have recently encountered at the Mays Ranch.  As you will see by the photo included we have a few bandits, mask and all, who are now unhappy about there "relocation", but will spend there remaining days in a much more acceptable environment.

In the process of apprehending the elusive ground hogs that have taken up residence under my tool shed, I have managed to rid us of one furry critter who is probably cousin to "buckeye chuck" but is still not welcome or invited to this "ranch".  To my surprise, "chuck" seems to have a cousin of his own, called "buckeye bandit" (and his family), and I have captured a bandit instead of "chuck".  Okay,enough already, ... out he goes and I'm still watching for "chuck" to appear and I fully plan to surprise him with an eviction notice.

Anyone want a "bandit" for a pet ... not recommended, so away with him and his cousins.  Just to let you bleeding hearts know, I did not harm this critter (maybe emotionally) and he is now in a safe place for critters such as this "bandit".

Remember!

Lest we forget, .. Pearl Harbor caught us unprepared, and we pay less attention every year.  How long before we forget "9-11"?  Life must go on, but if we fail to learn from present and past, we will repeat what we either failed or missed opportunity for.

I was able to finally visit this memorial, in 2005, and it was truly a solemn occasion as both Americans and Japanese, veterans and citizens stood shoulder to shoulder, silently remembering the terrible tragedy of Pearl Harbor's attack.  I'm certain both, had to wonder what we were pondering as we paid our respects the those who lost their lives.

The remains of the sunken ship Arizona lies beneath, and even today, an oil slick is present and seeping from below, where soldiers/sailors are entombed.  We don't realize the price paid for freedom, not just our own but others, but freedom is not free.

Our freedom from sin's penalty was not free.  Jesus gave his life to buy us back from bondage and slavery to sin and it's penalties.  I am yet thankful for His gift to me.  Shall I not give Him my best for taking my place, offering my life, knowing I should have death?  For Christ I die daily, that I may live for Him.

Thanks be to God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.

2010 Turning Point

What do we do when everday is crammed with more than one day's schedule can handle?  When looking at the long range picture, what will matter 24 hours from now, or what will matter a month from now, ... how about 6 months, or a year?  What will matter in eternity?

If you have read the previous blog, it's easy to see this year has had it's challenges, along with rewards, but none the less, we haven't lacked for challenges.  How much we have taken on to handle, becomes part of our everyday thoughts and concerns, even with great expectations as a motivation.  What escapes "me" sometimes is the current level of ability to multi-task or juggle the choices that are not mine, with choices that my seem inviting.  "There is a way that seems right ...." at times, and, I've realized (more than once) that what "seems" right may have brought "overload" to the commitments already in progress.

Long story shortened, I have as of today, made a choice to let go of a commitment that when presented originally, seemed like the thing to do and it would provide help where help is needed.

Need is not the best reason many times to make a commitment.  While I do not regret jumping into the process, I see now I can provide only so much for so many, and pleasing others is not the way to evaluate accomplishments.  Sometimes that comes from pride, sometimes, just good intentions.  I became burdened beyond my own capacity to fulfill and no longer had the peace of the process.  I don't know that I missed God, ... just that while learning some valuable "information", I also lost the joy of the race.

Today, I let go of that commitment, and find already the peace of the process in living up to what is mine "first to do" and all else will take it's place in line, or be left for others who are able to handle "in peace".

Is anyone disappointed in me for that choice?  That will be for others to "deal with" and understand.  While "I can do all things through Christ", I'm not required to do everything others may expect.  Did I go back on my word?  Not!  I did work toward a goal that was based on unknown factors, and am now satisfied I gave it my best.

Today I continue with what is mine to do with a better focus, and with less distraction to what comes first.  My race continues.

Thanksgiving a'plenty!

It's almost the end of another year .. whew!! Where has the time gone?
As I think back over this year, I recognize we still have a full month to go, but we have passed through some hard times, but .. God has walked with us through what could have been worse.

As both Pam and I have been in the hospital twice, some planned, some unexpected, we both look back and can truly say we're stronger than we've ever been .. we haven't flinched.  God is faithful and has kept us from what could have been our enemy's delight.  He has not only worked with us, but for us and we continue to win.

Saying farewell to my youngest brother would be tougher than the health issues ... he went home to be with Jesus November 18th after a battle with cancer.  He remained faithful to God and has in no way felt that God let him down, but rather has stood on the Word, that "His grace is sufficient .. ".  Andy left a legacy for us all by living a pattern that Jesus gave us .. believing in God and searching for Him with our whole heart, knowing that God is, and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him .. with our whole heart, .. a relationship, not a religion.

We look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas.  A time to give thanks for all He is and has done, as well as a time to remember to give as Christ gave, not expecting anything in return and to give in love.  We are called to live in peace with one another, forgiving, comforting, and showing the kindness God has shown us through mercy.

Let your light so shine before men that they will glorify Him (not us) and draw others to that same light.  Do you have the light of Christ burning within?  It requires that we agree with God that we are all sinners, but that we can all be saved when we turn from sin, to God (turn around) and allow Him to change us from within.  We can't fix it first ... He is the one Who makes us a new creation in Christ, then day by day we are changed as our minds are renewed in the Word.

Happy Thanksgiving and a blessed merry Christmas to you as we celebrate His goodness and the birth of our greatest gift, Jesus Christ, ... Light of the world, our Savior!

Our Health Progress

As some have followed our recent health issues, it would be great to note that God has been with us and we are greatly improving day by day  as we follow the directions given by the doctor and therapists (for Pam), and we benefit from the prayers and support of our families, natural and spiritual.

No weapon formed against us has prospered ... weapons were real, but God had a better plan to bring us out.  A blood infection (sepsis) and MRSA were the diagnosis I have for both occasions in the hospital.  Both have responded to IV treatment (antibiotics) and I am on the mend.  God is faithful and uses medicine as well as supernatural healing.  I am benefitting from both.  Let me say right now, it has been God Who has been there and brought me through a very uncomfortable time, and to Him belongs ALL glory.

Pam is on track with her rehabilitation after the left knee surgery for a new knee.  This has not been easy, but has progressed greatly and she is actually scheduled for the second one by the end of August.  We see her beyond the rehabilitation, doing well and without the pain of the past from deterioration and arthritis.  Again God has been with us through all of this and we are still confident of her full recovery and a new lease on life with full mobility.

We have had our days to feel sorry for our selves, but each time we have been reminded of God's best and His presence to go through it with us.  Please know He will be there for you if you invite Him to be.  The Spirit of God indwells those who give their lives to God through Jesus Christ and obey His direction day by day.

Rejoice not over me oh my enemy, for when I fall, I will arise .... by the power of God at work in me .. as I am transformed by the renewing of my mind .. through God's Word.

In everything give thanks, and so today, we thank God for all He has provided and all He is doing for us ... most of all, just for Who He Is ... there is NO GOD BESIDE HIM ... never has been, and never will be!

New Knee For Pam

We are now at home recuperating and following the therapy directions, with a titanium and plastic left knee to replace Pam's arthritic and worn out knee.  Now in day 5, the pain is different, but very present as the swelling reduces, but everything inside the area is coming more alive as the med's she received during the surgical procedures are now depleting and all the muscles, tendons and anything else inside are very much awake.

The scheduled therapist arrived and after his review with her progress, she is ahead of the normal goals and has minor adjustments to the exercises.  Her fear of being negligent or doing something wrong has been proven false and she is well on her way to full restoration.  We were given insight as to the true picture of the normal recovery period and we have a ways to go, ... but we are on track and fully engaged with the correct procedures.

We know that God is very much present and at work in her progress and want to say to anyone considering this surgery, we do believe thus far it is worthwhile to have the replacement ... more so when we know the healing provided by God is our "edge" on full recovery, and regaining mobility and range of motion.

It is our great joy to give God all the glory for this amazing opportunity for restoration, knowing the level of pain Pam has endured for quite a while ... and now we are seeing the changes day by day.  It is God Who gives man (doctors, nurses, therapists) knowledge of how to treat and provide relief through such surgery and rehabilitation.  The many prayers of faith and agreement are ours still and we are blessed to know that God is our source through friends and family who put their trust in our Creator, and His Word .... He sent His Word and healed ... by His stripes we were healed ... thank God for His everlasting goodness and promises.

Thanks to all who have been a comfort and for praying with us and for us.  Thanks for every kind word and your support as we work through the rehabilitation, both now and in the coming weeks.  A friend loves at all times, both good and not so good (or comfortable).

Summer Update

Well, much has changed since April .. weather finally seems to be summer for sure. Along with that a wake up call you might say, .. spending 10 days in the hospital with an infection that still hasn't been traced, and now having a pacemaker to regulate my heart rate (seems to be working).

I started required training that would upgrade my drivers license (CDL) to provide for driving the buses at our church for outings, etc. Having completed two of five classes, I was interrupted by the stay in the hospital and the classes will now be postponed until further notice and re-evaluation physically for approval to continue. I am waiting on God's direction to see if I can continue that venture.

God has been orchestrating my steps, and Pam's of course, as we walk through this new challenge in my health and her's. According to doctor's, I should be able to return to a "normal" lifestyle after the reasonable recuperation I am now walking. From the time I entered the squad for a ride to the emergency room, till this day, I have received excellent and thorough care from the hospital staff, both doctors and nurses. We know certainly the prayers of our family, and church, plus extended family of friends has been the most rewarding as we have agreed that the healing provided by God, is evident. Yes God uses medicine and doctors, ... all healing comes from God and I am witness of His Presence through a very uncomfortable process.

Give God the credit and praise for not only saving my life, but providing the renewal of my strength. As you remember me, and Pam, in the coming weeks, we continue to appreciate the ongoing prayers and encouragement each of you have offered. May God richly reward each of you and your families.

Our steps ahead are not known, but we are entrusting our lives to Him to direct our steps and guide us by His Wisdom.

Roger and Pam

Not April Fool .... It's Really Spring and 76 degF

This is what I'm talking about....!



Ok, I've certainly looked forward to a day like this for so long. Thank you Lord that even when the weather gets cold now, it won't last and we can look forward to beautiful days like today for a while. This also helps me understand Resurrection Day .... everything becoming new, ... new life all around us, reminding us, that He Lives.

Everyday is a blessing from God, and how we use it determines whether we are thankful. Let's make the most of it and with every new flower, budding tree, emerging grass (to cut), just watch how nature moves along as His Word says, Springtime and harvest, winter and summer, will not cease, because our Creator had a plan for the earth and it's inhabitants to be fruitful and multiply. Our's to enjoy and make everyday count, to His glory.