December 22, Merry Christmas, indeed!

How many more times will I say it, 'Merry Christmas?' I suspect many more. For, in all the years I've been so doing, I find this greeting no more compelling than now. Why? Well because of the response. For though most all always are nice - and though some will add a 'thank you' and even echo the self-same back. There are others, a growing number I find, who now politely, almost 'correctively' say... "Happy Holidays to you, too!" And for this, I am compelled to insist my greeting remains - 'Merry Christmas, indeed!"

Now... before you either decry or applaud me, may I first insist on being clear. I am not asking congress to pass a law that the phrase be a must. Or, that retailers be strictly black-listed for not so using. No! I am simply electing to use what has become in my lifetime a wonderfully powerful witness and testimony. For as the saying has fallen from the masses, it now may trickle from the lips of those joyfully in Christ once more.

So... do not grow weary this Christmas 2009 and beyond. Let the world in which you live hear aloud your good witness - even in the simplicity of that age-old greeting. And... let the redeemed of the LORD say so -

Merry Christmas, indeed!

Pastor Sam

December - a marvelous month to me

When it comes to months of the year I face no dread in December. I suppose this means I am fully crossed over in my mind to the world of 'pastor', because I know this is not nearly so true among all, but... December is a marvelous month to me. In December I preach of but one thing - Jesus. In December I concentrate on but one function of my calling - people. And, in December I strive to allow but one activity unto the example of my life - giving.

Now my reason for this, I know, lies squarely within the message of Christ - He gave to us so that we might give to others. Yet it also lies in the community called ParkwayHills. I love you all so very much. The lights are up on your houses and streets, the wind turns decidedly from the north, and the ParkwayHills 'Parade of Parties' begins. How I love coming into your homes in December - from the grandest to the most humble, and among the very youngest to the old. Belinda and I find joy as we visit with you and share in your journey - and December makes a perfect month for such.

For many of you, this year has been a journey of joy - one of gallantry and courage. For others it has been a journey fraught with burden - one of sorrow and pain. For all of us, however, this is a month we may lay what is or is not aside and come together around our common journey point - the coming of Christ into our lives bringing salvation regardless of health, income, status, race or creed. Who doesn't want to celebrate that?

So, today, may this pastor be a voice of encouragement to you? May I sound the call for celebration? For certainly, December - this marvelous month to me - really is a marvelous month indeed.

Pastor Sam

Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the LORD returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.

Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem.

The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. Isaiah 52: 8-10

Veterans Day - a day to say, 'thank you.'

Tomorrow, November 11, our country will honor it's Veteran's. Officially, this is both a state and national holiday and it is posted as such by the words, "Veterans Day" (that's right, no apostrophe as the attributive, rather than the possessive, case is set as the official spelling).

Now I know that many today have little idea what this day is for, and, though this in itself is sad, it is, at the least, my intention to give in this blog some meaning and, prayerfully, merit for this day. To do so, let me touch on two things to help -

1. The origin and purpose of the day

2. What we each can and should do, both as citizens and Christians, to give the day the full dignity it deserves.

ORIGIN AND PURPOSE

A quick search from Wikipedia reminds us that U.S. President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed an Armistice Day for November 11, 1919. Also, that the United States Congress passed a concurrent resolution seven years later on June 4, 1926, requesting then President, Calvin Coolidge, issue another proclamation to observe November 11 with appropriate ceremonies. On May 13, 1938, an act (52 Stat. 351; 5 U. S. Code, Sec. 87a) was approved making the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday; "a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day'."

In 1953, an Emporia, Kansas shoe store owner named Al King had the idea to expand Armistice Day to celebrate all veterans, not just those who served in World War I.The Emporia Chamber of Commerce took up the cause after determining that 90% of Emporia merchants as well as the Board of Education supported closing their doors on November 11, 1953, to honor veterans. With the help of then-U.S. Rep. Ed Rees, also from Emporia, a bill for the holiday was pushed through Congress. President Dwight Eisenhower signed it into law on May 26, 1954

Congress amended this act on November 8, 1954, replacing "Armistice" with Veterans, and it has been known as Veterans Day since.

WHAT MIGHT WE DO TO GIVE THE DAY THE DIGNITY & SIGNIFICANCE IT DESERVES:

1. As citizens, we can say "thank you." Our country owes a great debt of gratitude to those who have served this country, and, indeed, the world, in seeking after and preserving peace. Whatever anyone else may think of us, history will tell the true story: that brave men and women from this country have long served the world, giving the ultimate sacrifice, often, of their very lives, in its quest and its preservation of peace. Even today, these real heroes make life as we enjoy it possible for us. If you don’t believe this, then just talk to persons in any kind of intelligence or national security and they will set you straight. This world, and each of us in particular, owes them our thanks.

2. As Christians, we can pray. Wilson was a seeker of peace. His efforts in support of the League of Nations, which are written in our history books, speak plainly of his aspirations and strong desire. Was he naive? Many thought so. Was he wrong in his desire? Absolutely not! Scripture tells us that as Christians we are to seek peace, live in peace, pray for it, and do what we can to preserve it. President Wilson took this on.

So tomorrow is not just another day. It is a day that our country does well to observe. Our children should know of it, as should we, and we should teach them by our own example. Take time as a family tomorrow to seek out a veteran and say to them, 'thanks.' Maybe that veteran is a grandpa, an uncle or an aunt. Maybe he or she is a cousin or a friend. Whoever they are - just do it.

Secondly, take time with your family to pray for our troops - those at home and abroad. Pray for their safety, their courage and their families. Make Veterans Day a day that we really do what we ought to do - say thanks to those who’ve served, both us, our world and the causes of freedom and peace. Something President Wilson hoped for. Something, admittedly, we know will only be found ultimately in Christ. But… something we all should and must aspire for as long as God gives us breath.

Pastor Sam

After Ft Hood, "Why?" - The character of God

A challenge in my role as a pastor is the daily question from those hurting of 'why?' 'Why did God do this?' 'Why did God do this to me?' Or, after yesterday, 'what have we done that would cause God to allow this to happen to us?'

Of course, the questions themselves reveal how most of us view or think of God. We think of Him as in charge - as Sovereign - and though answers to any questions concerning Him are to be found in His Word, I must admit that, even there, they are not always so easily gleaned. The same Bible which reads, "God makes the rain to fall on the just and the unjust" (Matt. 5:45) also reads, "He visits the sins of the fathers upon their children to the third and fourth generation" (Ex. 34:6-7, Deut. 5: 8-10, also Num. 14:18), which begs my title, 'the character of God.' For, by understanding this - God's character, we will journey toward carrying on - even in troubled times.

The whole of scripture teaches us that here are two traits to know of God that can help us cope. The first is God is love and the second, God is just. Today I want to deal with the first - the love of God. In the days ahead we will look at the second - the justice of God. So first... His love.

In his blog of Sept, 1, 2006, Dr. Ben Witherington, professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary writes:

The chaplain ran to help the man lying on the beach of a South Pacific island, who had been hit by a shell. The young man was dying, and as the chaplain administered the morphine to him, the young man looked into the chaplain's eyes and asked "Surely you must know--- what is God like?" The chaplain, my former college Bible Professor, Bernard Boyd said-- "God is suffering love, he is just like the Jesus who died for you. And at this very moment he is with you in this pain for he said-- "inasmuch as you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me." (for more on this see the poem by Geoffrey-Studdert Kennedy "The Sorrow of God").

Jesus once said, 'if you've seen me, you have seen the Father for I and the Father are one" and this statement is one I have hung my life, ministry and thoughts of God upon. The Bible says that "God's way's are past our finding out,' but then Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life." If there is a picture of God, then it is Christ. If there is an inkling, this side of Glory, that enables us to know what God is like, then it is in knowing and following His Son, Jesus. So that when we think of the love of God, we think of it's divine/human expression, God the Son, dying on the cross and saying, 'Father forgive them.' So, my friends, God is love.

I may not know, from this or heaven's side of eternity, all there is to know about God, but I can tell you this - God is love. I know so because I know His Son. God is not a God of murder, chaos, violence or revenge. God is a God of love. What happened at Ft Hood was not from God or by His hand. That evil was because of man's sin - expressed, on this day in an individual or ideological soul, be it intentional or from a crazed maniac out of his mind. Likewise, it is not our role, now or ever, to perpetrate similar or same actions upon others under the pretense of acting out 'God's plan' - for this cannot be so - God is love. We must resist reducing God, both in mind and action, to anything like this. Why? Because we have as our highest example our Savior - God Himself - Jesus Christ His Son.

Till next time, then -

Pastor Sam

Top 10 Reasons Why Letterman's Recent Exploits are NOT funny

Late Night TV Host, David Letterman, has long been a comedian I've enjoyed, at times. However, his recent admission of having "sex with women who work for me on the show,"' summarily applauded by his worshipful audience, leaves me disappointed. Not just because of his action - I am quite accustomed to hearing of this, thank you - but because of a perception of his 'cavalier comic' attitude and 'cheatingly friendly' venue in so explaining.

Now I do applaud his efforts to aid authorities in uncovering the 2 million dollar extortion scheme attempting to gain from his foray/s, but I DO NOT applaud the means by which he chose to share this. True Dave is not a preacher nor a politician, and one might argue he should not be held to their standard. However, he is a man upon whom many look and admire and, by his chosen response, he has sent one more grand signal to an up-turned world that sin is ONLY in the eye of the beholder, and that a good man's measurement is simply 'honesty,' and not behavior.

Well, Dave, with the love of Christ in my heart, under His grace as to my own sin, and by the value of His precious Word, I disagree.

So... here you g0 - Here are my Top 10 reasons why your actions and response to such are out of line.

#1o. A 'workman is worthy of his hire,' - nothing more or less (Matt. 10:10)

#9. It is an 'eye for eye and tooth for tooth,' - not _____ for a paycheck (Exodus 21:24)

#8. Sodom and Gomorrah were 'an example' of 'fire',- not fun (Jude 1:7)

#7. 'No man lives to himself or dies to himself, we are the LORD's' - (Romans 14: 7)

#6. "Masters, give your servants what is just and equal, knowing you have a Mater in heaven - (Colossians 4:1)

#5. "Watch out that no one deceives you after the world and not after Christ" - (Colossians 2:8)

#4. "Be not conformed to the world but transformed by Christ" - (Romans 12:2)

#3. "Father's, do not exasperate your children" - (Colossians 3:21)

#2. "Present your body as a living sacrifice to God" - Romans 12:1

And... reason number.....

#1. 'Thou shalt not commit adultery.'

Pastor Sam

Mary Travers - thought & reflection of her time

My musical propensity toward 'folk' was born from the smooth sounds of groups like the Kingston Trio, The Weavers and, later, Peter, Paul and Mary. Yes, before 'folk rock', there was folk, and though but a boy when such appeared on our American music scene, I liked it, learned to play it, and think fondly of it still. "Hooked" - I even enjoyed 'Up With People' and the 'Smothers Brothers' - the latter not just for their comedy but their music. After all, who didn't appreciate "If I Had a Hammer" and the "Ballad of John Henry" simply performed with vocals, acoustic guitar and a stand-up string bass.

But now, frankly, until yesterday - when news that folk music legend, Mary Travers, died at 72 of Leukemia, I hadn't thought much of this genre in a long, long time. Mary was the 'Mary' of "Peter, Paul and Mary" - whom my parents thought of as 'certainly' a 'Christian group' based on their first names, actually only their given names, as New Testament 'biggies,' but, as we all know, this was not so. Not entirely, though Paul Stookey did publicly profess faith in Christ by the late 60s - but that 's a sideline, so let's get back to Mary - she was born in Kentucky in 1936, to journalistic parents. In the 50s her parents moved to New York's Greenwich Village, where Mary was likely influenced by both her parents and the 'bohemian-like culture' of friends and neighborhood. Hip before hippies, this culture greatly influenced what was to come - a brooding in America needing only a cause, and perfectly delivered by the 60s itself, Civil Rights, and the Vietnam War.

Now I know that "Puff the Magic Dragon" may have (perhaps did) offer an alter or ulterior meaning - or at least I was warned. And I also know that many of the young people of that day and time, were, well... a mess. But we/they did think - if only for a while - and were changed because of it, though I confess to looking about now at what has and hasn't been and wondering, "where has our 'hammer' gone?" And though as an evangelical pastor I do not espouse to a politically liberal ideology or body-politic, I do espouse to a thoughtful, world-changing one, thank you very much! One, yes, that still challenges the status quo. For, if Jesus is not that towards this time, then we've misunderstood Him. For we of all people should be careful that we do not rob our own children of the one thing that the folk youth of the 60s held onto - which was hope. The hope that things could be, should be, must be better. Yes, I think we -even we Christian's - are woefully remiss when we sound only the bell of doom. For if our Christian youth are to change their world in Christ, it will be with the gospel - which is certainly a gospel of hope and not doom.

Mary Travers was 72. She has now passed from life to life eternal - and will be judged based upon what she did with Christ, as well as what she was or was not in Him. Period! Her time on earth was six score and 12. Her songs were the easy, at times woeful, songs of hope - if only for things least hopeful. By contrast, we have been given real hope in Christ. So... let me ask... 'what's our song?'

Pastor Sam

09.11 plus 8

Knowing that I was in New York City, staying just 15 'city' blocks north of the World Trade Center on a mission trip, people often ask of my memories and impressions of that day - now 8 years past. And though I certainly claim no extraordinary or prolific abilities as a writer, I am known to do so - so that folks are justifiably curious that I have not written more about that day. Sure, my thoughts are recorded - my journal of the event was immediate - and, sure, the day is often mentioned in my sermons and conversation. Yet, still, some days leave us with an impression so strong and so multi-layered, that putting such to pen is, simply, well... difficult.

On this day, however, this 8th anniversary of that day - I 'd like to make a start by recording a few words, followed by brief lines of comment, concerning how it was I felt on 09.11.2001

Confusion - From a morning jog under a beautiful blue sky, to thoughts of horrible accident and then attack - in a matter of minutes each of these 'realities' came to my mind - and we were there.

Fear - Where's is the president? Talking to Belinda by cell phone, I began to fear the worst. Where is he? Is he coming back to Washington? Is he on a plane? I have no control!!!!

A Dad's attempt - On the phone with Taylor - saying what I should regardless of how I felt - 'It's OK Baby Doll. I am safe. The world is not ending. Don't be afraid. I promise you - I WILL come home!'

Shock - There is more! A plane is down in Pennsylvania. All are lost. The Pentagon has been hit!

Anger - Someone has to pay for this. Who made these people God?

Depression - We live in a fallen, confused world. Innocent die everyday. This world is not to be worshipped, I know, but why God? What is our purpose? I know the truth, but it's not enough. Not right now. Hide me under a tree!!!

My father's teaching - 'son, there will be a day you will want to quit. On that day your decision to not do so will be the real measure of who you are as a man.'

God's Word - 'yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil - for thy rod and thy staff comfort me.'

Our common humanity - the people on the street are no longer looking down. They are looking out, around, at each other and at me. They need my eyes to look at them. They need me. I need them.

Pride - New York is no longer 'them,' it is 'us.' It is an American melting pot. People from around the globe live here - and they have touched me forever. Most embrace the opportunity of this land - and are glad for it. This place, New York, is America - just like Texas is - not perfect, at times flawed, but a place I am proud of today.

Resolve spoken - I will not live in fear. Terror will not win. I will not take life, my family, my church, my community nor my responsibility for granted. Not today. Not tomorrow. Not ever!

Sleep - Blue sky is gone. Dust fills the air. Weary from a day I pray to never know again, I lay down on a bunk in a building near 7th Ave. & a street called B - just 15 city blocks away from the worst devastation ever performed through attack that this nation has known - and slept. Not perfectly, but some.

Resolve defined - the next morning I awoke. Dust, and now death, filled the air. This was not a dream. Sirens still sounded and people still cried - but I, along with you, got up, bowed my head, and thanked God for America and for Christ Jesus my LORD - my saviour, my country, my home! Then I dressed - and went out of the building and onto the streets of a cIty called New York - never to be the same again.

Pastor Sam

LABOR DAY - 'a 3 day weekend' - and why

To understand fully the origins and motives of Labor Day in the US one should travel back to the mid to late 1800s, when industrialized nations such as we were experiencing a zenith in prosperity - if but only for a few. Most now agree that this 'prosperity' was realized on the backs of an impoverished force of American labor-working long hours, 6 days a week, and under less than safe or commodious conditions. So that in 1882, when American labor leader Peter McGuire had witnessed a festival in Toronto celebrating Canada's Trade Union Act, and returned to New York to organize our first Labor Day Parade on September 5th of the same year, it was an immediate and sustainable hit - followed by more.

In 1894, facing the aftermath of a number of deaths at the hands of US military and marshals during the Pullman Strikes, President Grover Cleveland made reconciliation with labor a priority, and aggressively promoted a bill through congress to recognize the date as a national holiday. And though born originally from certain controversy and strife, the next 100 years have seen our American Labor Day become one of recognizing - not just those among us we call 'labor' - but the sheer dignity of all such laborem (its Latin root) under the sun - because from it is fueled the mutual good of we who accomplish, enjoy, and by it receive our bounty. Yes, if ever there were a nation primed to celebrate the success of labor, it was, and is - US (pun intended).

Now because I'm a pastor, serving a community knowing as much success and excess as any, I find myself this weekend wondering at this. I wonder how, or if, we even value labor today. Do we do fully understand this to be a marvelous device given by the mind of God from which He assigns us dignity and worth? To work with our hands - be that on computer, with a scalpel, or under a car - to create, to add to the common good and be fairly and reasonably recompensed for such is one of the supreme joys of life. For was it not the 'preacher' who learned and uttered- "it is good for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in all of his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days God has given him - for this is lot. (Eccl. 5:18) Yes, pity the soul who does not know this, either by choice or upbringing - and pity the time if such is ever lost altogether. For in that time we will really have lost our way. In that time, if work becomes our drudge, will it be because we are not paid well? Or, will it be be because we've failed to learn the simplest of value from that which we've been made best to posses - our labor?

So on Tuesday next - when we each go back to 'work' to punch our time-clock, construct an email, or complete a task - remember the celebration of all those who've gone before. Those who, like most of us, did not make it onto 'American Idol' or into the grand arena of our present day temple - 'Sport', but who marched in a parade of 1882, and have as such reminded us of a kind of soul-dignity from which life on earth is made. Think of those persons, and then... think, again, of yourself, and be glad.

Happy 'Labor Day' all

Pastor Sam

Ready or not, here I come!

Remember playing hide and seek? You know, where your friend/s would hide as you closed your eyes and counted out loud to ten? At the end of the count you'd call out loud something like this... "ready or not, here I come" - adding to the thrill while warning those hiding that if they weren't ready, they better be because - the count (hiding) is now over. 'Seek' has begun.

Now I have noticed that this phrase is played repeatedly in everyday life. There is a time for counting (preparation), and there is a time for doing. Once doing starts, counting is over - so that we continually find ourselves saying under our breath.... 'ready or not!"

This Sunday will be a 'ready or not' Sunday at Parkwayhills. Students will advance to the next grade, to a new room, in some cases -even - a new hall. As well, many teachers and workers will do the same. Facing new pre-schoolers, children and youth, it will be a day filled with excitement and activity. Yes, after all the preparation, after the planning, the training, and the painting, comes... the doing, 'ready or not!'

When Jesus came to earth it was a a ready or not moment. When He comes again it will be one as well. Are we ready? I pray so, for... ready or not the clock has begun.

"You must also be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him." Matt. 24:44

Pastor Sam

21 August 2009

Saturday Afternoon - "The Footstool"

Sometimes I cry when I come to the church - not from sadness but from joy.  I love walking its halls when they are quiet - like today, a Saturday afternoon - and sensing the shadow that is cast by our city as it drives by.  I relish coming into my study, to linger in my room and behind the desk where I've sat since 1994.  But mostly, I pine for walking into our darkened worship center and up the west baptistry stairs to my 'closet', where I pray. There, in this humble room with little decoration at all, I spend time with God.  It is a room 'found' for me by maintenance - an empty closet, really -  and decorated/painted by my friend, Janie Zimmerman. It is simply furnished, and in all this time it has not changed.  I could barely tell you what rests upon its walls - save two pictures of John Wesley and Dwight Moody. But... I can tell you of the stool.  

The stool is an old footstool from my grandparents living room.  I sat on it as a boy, and remember it as a piece of furniture nestled between the chairs of my Mama May and PaPa.  It always held their Bibles, until they sat down, then it would hold me.  I'd sit with them, quietly, listening to their soft, almost muted voices commenting upon scripture and the ways of God, enthralled by the mystery of their faith.  A faith so personal, so close, and so intimate that you could - yes - smell and feel it.  

An impression was made upon me from that old footstool - an impression lasting more than 50 years. So that when I go up to my closet to pray today, I remember.  I remember a faith - first seen in my grandfather and mother, then passed on to my Mom, my Dad, and to me.  And with head bowed and body prone over that same stool, I pray... God move this church by first moving me.  Change me. Make me. Cleanse me from my sin. Let Jesus be seen in me.  And, may Your glory be magnified in this place!  Tomorrow and forever, Amen! 

Pastor Sam 

15 August, 2009

Saturday, August 8, 1948

It was 61 years ago today that my Mom and Dad were married - 08.08.48. She was 17, and 3 months out of High School. And he was 1 month short of his 23 birthday, home from the Navy and a war. They met in Dallas, where they both worked for National Linen Supply Co.  My Dad was a 'Route-man,' working for his older brother, Ted, who served the company as its Service Manager.  My Mom worked in the office and had the job of checking in the drivers as they came in from their deliveries.  

The story goes that she had been there exactly 1 week.  As Friday came, Dad returned from his 'out of town' route, after having been gone all week.  Because of this, he'd not yet seen the new girl - Mom.  Crossing the great garage, called 'barn,' with his large smile and good looks in tow, he made his way to the window where she was.   As Mom tells it from there, she turned to one of her girlfriends to ask, "who's this?"  They said, that's "Delmer Dennis, isn't he cute!"  Then she, in just about the same breath,  said, 'that's the man I'm going to marry' - and 5 weeks later, they were. 

Growing up I didn't know about other kids and their parents, but I always knew Mom and Dad were in love. When she saw him, she glowed. And, when he saw her, well, let's just say we kids knew that a hug, pat, or a kiss was coming.  They were 'hand-sy" before "hand-sy" was cool and we kids just learned to accept it. We grew up with the security of always knowing how they felt for each other, and that, somehow, this would never pass.  

When my Mother called me on a July morning 20 years ago this past summer, she was crying when she said, "Sammy come quick, you're Daddy's gone!"  But she was wrong.  For he has never really left.  So that today, when we talked on the phone I knew how she'd begin.  "Today would have been our 61st," she said.  And I replied to both her voice and heart with, "I know, Mom. I know."  

Twitter is down!

If someone had told me that a line like this would mean ANYTHING to me 6 months ago, I would have looked blankly at them and queried, "What's twitter?" Well that day is certainly no more.  For today... twitter went down - and I, along with millions of others, was told by text to 'chillax,' in cool twitter-ese, meaning simply I could not tweet.  

So...

I went to FACEBOOK - to post my thoughts the old fashioned way - you know, the way I did in the ancient times (all of 7 weeks ago) before 'tweetdeck,' or through my iphone, but with my laptop instead, logged onto my, aarrrggghhh, FACEBOOK page. But it was, relatedly, so very SLOWWWWWWW.

But, then...

Worried I'd not catch ALL my audience with my 'earth shaking' views, I logged on next to BLOGGER.COM, to access my blog account.  'But, oh,' I'd forgotten, 'my blog account is  now married to one of my google accounts and requires I log in with a goggle ID'.  But which google account is it? Like you, I have multiple - from days of seeking that perfect ID - you know, that would distinguish me from all others.   

But... twitter... remained down.  

So I grabbed my pen - that's right, my pen - and returned to an old friend, my journal, to write there.  And yes, you guessed it - once begun, it all came back so that I flew.  I whizzed passed 140 characters like a missile, without one CAPITALIZED WORD or smiley face in view.  I used sentences - complete sentences - with structure, syntax, metaphor and, oh yes, a signature, too.  A signature that said - 'this is from me to no one - no one but the me called you'.  For today twitter went down!  And I, alas, did too.  

But... I wonder? 

Summer Rains

Coming home after being away in Brazil for two weeks was exciting for me - except for one thing.  My anticipation of the summer furnace that would greet me was foreboding.  I love this city, but, the heat that attends our summer's here bothers me more and more each year.  

When I stepped out of the airport and into my car, however, things were not as I expected.  Instead of a furnace blast, I was hit with a cool breeze. Then, a few days later, there followed 2 days of 'summer rain'. 

Now I know these rains are possible.  Of my 59 years, I have lived 49 of them in Texas, and have seen this phenomenon before.  But... like most who live here... not so much.  With our Texas summer we get clouds that flirt but don't ask us out. We get 'showers' that make things worse, not better.  But rare is the sound of thunder in a late July or August sky.  Rarer still the sound of 'real' rain on our 160˚roof's. And rare beyond rare find we puddles for our birds to bathe, cool streets in which our kids might play, and a cloudy covering over our sky that stays.  Yes, in Texas, we have one word for a summer rain - and that's 'grace'. 

Yet, isn't God's grace better than a Texas summer rain?   For not only is it not what we expect, it is not what we deserve.  So that, in Texas, a 'Summer Rain' can be a reminder of the ways of God - just when you think you've been given all there is, He gives you more.  

So enjoy the summer rain today.  Be reminded of a God who saves, by grace, and leaves us, as such, with the wonderful promise of more - the promise of John 10:10. 

Pastor Sam 

Home and a Brasilian PS

As in every year upon my return, I marvel at the power of the gospel to transform lives.  Have we made Christianity too hard in the west (western culture)?  I think perhaps so.  We keep blaming our lack of power and effectiveness in evangelism on our culture and its 'deaf ears.'  "They" have gone so far "they've" left the possibility for redemption behind, we say.  But... I wonder?

Perhaps it is we who have gone too far away.  Too far from the majesty, grace and power of God to change lives when truth is spoken with conviction and relevance because we who speak it believe in it ourselves.  If God is our God, Christ is our Saviour, and the testimony of we who call ourselves redeemed live this truth in such a way that we have credibility when we speak, I think there yet may be hope for us.  

Pictured here with me is Osmar da Silva. He is the owner/operator of the Hotel we stayed in Jaiba.  Osmar confessed faith in Christ.  Why?  Because he was impressed with us.  And, because he rubbed up against our Christian authenticity for a few days so much that when he was challenged to accept the same for his own self, did!  He and his entire household.  

Who will be next here at home? 

Gloria de Deus, indeed - 

Pastor Sam 

 

Brasil, Day 12, Rio de Janeiro

Today it is Tuesday, and we have made the long trip from the north of Minas Gerais to, Rio de Janeiro, this great city by the sea.  We had breakfast in the historic First Baptist Church of Rio, where our mission team worship leader serves as the Minister of Music.  We will spend our time before flying home by sight-seeing. We are all very tired, but grateful for the over 300 persons who came to know Christ through this mission trip.  Indeed, the Harvest remains plentiful here in the land and among the people of Brasil. 

Last night we held a testimony service at our Fazenda (dude ranch) which was our stop on the way home.  I was amazed to hear the story of how Jairo Campos was called into this work as a young man and child of missionary parents.  Indeed, the influence of parents over their children is astounding.   Case in point, the picture here is of the Chris and Dave Davenport, and Chris's daughter, Sara, and Dave's sons' Brett and Jacob.  Chris and Dave lived in Brasil as children while there parents served here as missionaries.  

We'll see you all in Dallas - 

Pastor Sam 

Brasil, Day 10, Novorizonte

In 2006 our team came to the village of Novo Horizionte where we ran medical clinic, held morning VBS, went into the surrounding villages for afternoon evangelism and held evening services under a giant tent.  This city, situated about 30 kilometers from the larger city of Salinas, quickly became one of our favorites, and our construction team headed up by Dave and Craig Davenport, dug the holes and poured the piers for the foundation of the church.  Well... this past Sunday our team split up (1/2 going back to Indaiabira and the other 1/2 with me to Novo Horizonte) so that we could attend the building dedications of both churches - and I got to experience the 'thrill of a lifetime' as we dedicated the church building there and saw people who had come to Christ directly through the work of Parkwayhills. I will ever forget seeing the little girl, Camile, come to the front of the church at this service and sing with team member, Xavier.  This child never missed a day of Miss Debbie's VBS in 2006, and brought her entire family to sit on the front row of the tent services each night.  And now, as she is nearing her teen years, she is filled with the love of Jesus Christ.  

The two pictures are of Ann Stokes, who has blessed us all as our first 'official' female member of the construction team and of Camile ( the girl of Novo Horizonte) and Xavier, a man who has made the last 3 trips with our team.  

Gloria de Deus

Brasil, Day 9, 'Last Day in Jaiba''

Today will be our last day in Jaiba. It has been very hard work, but with great success. Yesterday and last night approximately 100 persons made professions of faith. One such was the owner/operator of our Hotel - Osmar da Silva Miguel de Morais. This exciting profession came as a 'process', as for the past several days and through many persons in conversation, his heart, over time, had been warmed. Indeed, a great example of the power of the church of Jesus Christ when filled with the Spirit of God and about the work of God. As we ate lunch yesterday, he joined us, and, while leading our afternoon vespers I felt led by God's Spirit to call him out - in other words to recognize, publicly, how the Spirit of God had been working in His life. He seemed pleased and comfortable with me doing this. Then, as I moved my message forward to its next point, he simply stood up and asked, "May I confess Christ right now?" What happened then was nothing short of amazing, as he came forward and we all gathered around him and I led him in his public confession of faith in Christ.

This morning our VBS team will host over 200 children at the local escola (shcool) in Jaiba, where they are headquartered. Then, this afternoon, we will travel to the town of Mateus Cordosa for a 'mini' event of the same. Mateus Cordosa is a beautiful town on the banks of the river, San Franciso - one of the largest and most powerful rivers in the world. The town features a catholic church on the Praca (pronounced prasa) that was erected in 1675. It is magnificent structure, made even more so by the fact that now, nearly 350 years later, the gospel is being preached in front of its doors to a people who are, in the main, ignorant of its truth.

In this city we will have over 100- 200 children gather among our youth. Our team will 'make due' by creating makeshift tables and areas upon concrete or cobblestone pathways in order to do crafts, recreation, and to allow for a Bible story and singing. One of the highlights of this time happens to be a surprise appearance of a youth who 'flies' in dressed as superman. He tells the boys and girls that he is the most powerful person in the world, but then is asked, can you create the world, save people from theirs sins, or come into a persons heart and change their life. To this he answers, of course, no - and the gospel is then shared.

Following this, I - or one of English pastors - usually preach, but today I am going to give this charge to Coby Ray. He is a Spirit filled young man and I am praying that God will use His words mightily to pierce the hearts of those who gather around.

Tomorrow is as travel day, and I likely will not be able to post. We will leave early to make our back to Nova Horizonte, a town we came to 2 years ago. It will be good to see these people again and to worship with them. Then, the bus will take us another 8 hours to the south, to Hotel Fazenda -a ranch on a river, where we will rest for the day on Monday. Then, during the night of Monday-Tuesday, we will travel to Rio, for a day of shopping and sight seeing before our return flight home. Our team is tired but refreshed in their spirits. I am proud of them all, and give thanks to God for their sacrificial commitment as well as the many of you who have been faithfully praying for us. Keep it up, as tonight I will preach to 400 -500 persons calling them to Christ and to the ministry of Gospel He brings.

Deus Abencoe - Pastor Sam

PS The pictures are of the Catholic church in Mateus Cardosa and of the VBS children singing there no less than 200 yards from its front door.

Brasil, Day 8, 'calling out the new'

It has been a few days since my last post, and we have been very, very busy. A few of us are tired - taking rest as needed - but for all, this team and their commitment to the work has been incredible. I am especially proud of our young people and young adults. Trey, my son, is 16 and Jairo has with him his sons, John Peter and John Phillip, as well. These young men are 14 and 12 respectively and each are performing in a mature manner far beyond their years.

In addition, Lauren Irons, a Junior education major at Baylor University is with us and today shared her testimony. Then, Dave and Debbie Davenport's sons, Brett and Jacob are with us - some good ole 'Aggies' - are with us. Brett shared his testimony on Thursday and tomorrow Jacob will bring us our message for morning vespers. Finally, the ParkwayHills team is also made up of two young adults, Sarah Davenport and my daughter Taylor, who's training growing up here at ParkwayHills has prepared them well for the rigors and challenge of communicating more than information, communicating God's love. As their pastor, this only reminds me of how grateful I am for our church back home, and the good leadership so many provide week in and out in raising up such fine young Christian 'missionaries.'

Chris Davenport, who has been with me every year since first we began this work in Brasil, is our tireless leader and coordinator for the American team - and Glenn Sampson is our official 'elder.' I don't know that I have ever met any men more dogged in their commitment to 'stay the course' while remaining 'flexible.' What an example they are.

Additionally, I have brought with me Pastor Jim Thomas and church planter, Pastor Coby Ray. These men are gaining a birds eye view of the power of God to work in a place, a specific time, and through a specific strategy so much so that He just blesses. It is incredible to see all things come together in His timing and through His ways. It makes you hunger, as a pastor, for nothing less. What a great lesson for a pastor to learn.

We are now in Jaiba, a larger city and, as such, more difficult. The logistics are quite challenging and the numbers of people we are dealing with each day are almost more than we can manage. I preached to a full gymnasium last night, as I heave every night, and saw many come to Christ. Tonight, however, I will give Jim that charge. He will do a good job and I am pleased for his willingness to take up the challenge and his openness to sense this call as a pastor from ParkwayHills beyond me. Indeed, in ministry we are always training and mentoring, and asking God to 'call out the new' - to 'send' the workers, those beyond us, to go 'into the fields', which are so very 'ripe for harvest'.

The pictures today are of Pastor Jim, Chris Davenport and Pastor Coby; as well as picture of one of our hotels In Jaiba. Needless today, we are not in the Ritz Carlton (nor even MOTEL 6), but are grateful to be in Christ. Amen? Amen!

Brasil, Day 6

This morning, Wednesday, we leave the beautiful village of Indaiabira.  The people here have been so very sweet. We will miss them - as, now, they are no longer strangers but brothers and sisters in the Lord.  

Today we travel to Jaiba.  It is a larger city (7,000) and a more heavily populated municipality (approx. 20,000) with a new church and the possibility of many more to come.  I plan to have Pastor Jim Thomas preach one night. He has been of great help to me, teaching the 'resgate' (team) in the morning.  As well, young Pastor Coby Ray has been a blessing.  He is a gifted preacher, too, and a genuine young man of God.  I am very excited to have these two men with me.  

Bom Dia - 

Pastor Sam 

Brasil, Day 5

Today is our last day in the village of Indaiabira.  It will be full.  Our 3rd day of VBS here, which will have over 300 hundred children, and our 3rd day of evangelism and visitation, which is key to impacting the area.  This afternoon, I will lead the local church in a dedication service of their new facility.  The construction team has been working on benches (pews) that will be used for the fist time in their new building.  We will participate in the Lord's Supper together then I will charge the church with its purpose in Christ and culminate it all by asking the members of the church to come forward so we might pray over them.  Tonight will also be our last evangelistic service in this village.  No doubt the gymnasium will be full. 

The pastor here is named, Wilson, a relatively young man for such a crucial task, but well supported by his love for Christ and the people. When he first saw me on Saturday evening - he did the very same thing that he did when last he saw me in  the summer of 2008 and asked me to promise I would come back - he kissed my cheek and cried the tears of a pastor.  Needless to say, I love Wilson very much and am honored to be back with him.  

Attached to this post is a picture of a family and pastor with whom I visited yesterday. They live very far out in the country. No internet, very little money, reached via roads often impassable by car or bus when after rains, but loving people and proud.  When she (the elderly woman to my right) heard that we were coming - via a 'runner' who ran to her home to tell her - she went into the house to shower and clean herself.  I sat at her table and drank coffee and ate some of the sweetest bread I have ever enjoyed - her very best - and thought of Jesus and the joy he knew in being with people who were glad to see him.  There is nothing more sweet than fellowship with the saints of the Lord.  Amen?   

Brasil Day 4 - Indaiabira, Minas Gerais, Brasil

We arrived to our village in the north of Minas Gerias on Saturday evening of 11 July at about 6:00 p.m., then went straight to work - glad to finally be here.  The area is beautiful - very similar to the foothills of Colorado and much like it as to temperature in late spring spring or early summer.  At night you need a jacket, but the days can be quite warm when the sun is out.  

Now, for the very first time in my 25 years of ministry, I have come to serve an area and people with my family. This has been quite different for me. Yet, what a joy it has been to have my precious wife, daughter and son see both the place and people I have talked about for these last 6 years.  My daughter, Taylor, is leading in Vacation Bible School, and my son, Trey, is faithfully helping with recreation. This has certainly opened his 16 year old eyes to the power of God and the true purpose of the church.  

Today was a turnaround for us all.  I spoke frankly to our leadership team about the need for us to be focused. This message was passed along to our entire team of about 100 people - 30 Americans and 70 Brasilians - and the result was immediate.  Over 30 persons accepted Jesus Christ as their Saviour in the surrounding villages of our afternoons visitation, one of whom was  one of the 'daytime' bus drivers.  Then, this was culminated in a powerful evening service of more than 400 persons, with professions of faith.  Such a beautiful country, made even more so by the 'beautiful feet' of these who have come bringing the gospel of Christ. 

Storms across the water

When we experience storms in North Texas they are mighty - but - when the same kicks up over the ocean, well... 

Yesterday, here in Florida, I witnessed just such a sight. It was incredible to watch as clouds rolled in and the waves were kicked up.  A day to stay in - for sure - but, in a moment's flash (coming from who knows where) I decided to jog the beach.  Off the deck and into the gale I braced myself to face both wind and rain. I turned north, determined to make the island's end before quitting.  Not one person was on the beach nor in the water.  Even the surfers (those young tatoos wearing skin who frequent such weather) were absent.  I was alone. 

As I ran the rain peppered my face, stinging and biting. My clothes, now drenched, created a drag, making my already slow pace slower. No gulls singing. No pelicans diving. Just me, and the heavy sounds of wind and my shoes crunching upon the wet sand. "How alone did the disciples feel the night of the storm?" I thought. As men of the lake they had seen storms' effects before. Now they were caught in one. Afraid for their lives. Out on a lake in a terrible storm with naught but the 'celebrity' of the day. "How did we get into this?" they thought.  

Water and wind together have a way of wreaking havoc on a life. We need water but could do without the wind because, together, they usually mean trouble. But wait! We should not forget that Jesus is in the boat - and that He is more, much more, than just a 'Celebrity of the Day!' And this! We certainly don't need to wake Him, do we? For, He already is. (Luke 8, Psalm 139, Psalm 23)

So... I finally made the end of my island. this isle called Anna Maria. And though the rain and wind never stopped my struggle finally did. Instead of feeling 'alone,' I was enthralled. Enthralled in real-time worship of the One, Awesome, Personal God through Christ.  For though it is true I no longer run as once I did, on this day, this day of rain, wind and storm, I ran with Him.

With storms across the water, indeed! 

  

Pastor Sam   

Cory and Ashley

After this Saturday they will be forever one.  You won't say Cory without adding the name, Ashley - and Ashley will be tagged with Cory for forever the same. Sound 'old fashioned'?  'Out of step' with our times?  No, not with these two.  For, somehow, we always knew.  

I remember the Youth Mission Trip to Washington DC, now 6 years ago.  That was the summer they first became a couple. Cory loved God, as did Ashley, but in Washington - and from that summer on - they grew in their love of Him and with each other.  After High School came Baylor. Would they stay together?  Most thought, maybe not, but then... they did.  Holidays would find them back in Plano, sitting together in church - still the same.  And so it went, day after day, week after week till the announcement was finally made.

As a pastor I am fortunate for many reasons, one of which is joyfully watching life FROM the pulpit. I observe families, cliques, feuds, people who come, go, and move from one trauma and/or revelation to another (what we call the professional 'drama' and/or 'crisis' seekers).  In this I simply watch' normal' people do normal things and do such very, very well. Nothing fancy. Nothing begging a lot of attention. Just life. Finding this a most wonderful 'watch' of all.  So yes, it has been grand watching the Whitmore's and the Allen's - two families with two teens who met, grew up, fell in love and will now be wed in the church where it first began. A true celebration of God - and reminder of how He works in us all.  The 'Imago Dei' - found extraordinarily - in me, you, and in Cory and Ashley, too - called first to love and now to wed - this twenty seventh day of June, in the year of our Lord, two thousand nine.