ZIG, 1926 – 2012

As a young business owner there was not any man I admired and desired more to emulate than Zig Ziglar. His book, "See You at the Top" sat on both my bed-stand AND desk - and I referred to it often. I even sent him a gift once - sent from my agency to his North Dallas Headquarters - trying to get his attention with some salesmanship of my own. The gift came to him in a finely wrapped box complete with ribbon and note, and inside was a cassette and player (something quite familiar to his own market and trade) but with my voice greeting him to extol the virtues of D. Samuel Dennis Co., Advertising, and why he should consider giving us a shot as his companies agency representative of choice.

Yes, I was a decided ZIG fan! But... beyond all the times I'd heard him speak and above all the ways I was prone to admire him - as businessman, salesman, motivational speaker, and committed Christian - his greatest message to me was something I was to hear in quite a different way. Something I was to witness over these last 20 years as I was blessed to live near him in the same community. A message quieter than all others but oh so powerful - and one to which I was finally most drawn. THAT was Zig's faithful love and devotion to his wife, the woman he called, his "REDHEAD."

Below is an excerpt from Zig's website, taken from an article he wrote, The New Decision Close, in which he describes his proposal to Jean, something he would call 'his best decision ever'.

"I asked that Redhead of mine (she is a "decided" redhead, meaning that one day she just decided to be a redhead!) to marry me and she said no. I asked her the second time; she said no. Third time, no. Fourth time, no. Fifth time, no. Sixth time, yes. No, she did not change her mind. What she did was very simple. She made a new decision based on the new information which produced a new feeling."

From: Secrets of Closing the Sale
© 1984 Zig Ziglar
Published by Fleming H. Revell
PHS-018-005022
Visit Zig Ziglar's Website: http://www.ziglar.com

Occasionally Belinda and I would run into Zig and Jean at Luby's, and he - always so courteous and kind - would eventually assign our conversation to the joys of being in love with one woman, forever, and for always. Zig absolutely loved Jean! And she knew it! And if ever there was any better example of a man following Ephesians 5:25 and a woman positively responding to such, neither Belinda or I could recall it. 

Now the folks who worked at Luby's probably didn't know the Ziglar's as 'famous'. They likely didn't realize that Zig was honored and recognized the world over. They just knew them as 'that cute couple,' who were always smiling, laughing, and holding hands.  And that seemed to make our seeing them there even more special.  No performance.  The real thing! 

Yes, I suspect that if we could talk to Zig right now and ask him about his life, he'd point to two decisions that changed things for him forever. The first, would be his decision to make Christ His Savior and to serve Him with all his might. But the second, I believe, would be his grace to meet and decision to marry his wife, Jean - and then follow this in the joyful occupation, everyday, of 'staying in love' with his 'decided redhead.'  So that his final message to this man - born just one generation behind - was this...it's not just how you start or how you do along the way, but it's how you finish that counts!  And, well.... Zig finished swell. Holding tight onto the two very wonderful things he began with so long ago - one met in Yazoo City and the other in Jackson - his LORD and his Bride.  And THAT'S a message worth listening to, still.   

Well done, Zig!  

Pastor Sam  

12 November 2012, Veterans Day

Veterans Day is celebrated so that we might honor veterans of our American Armed Services who have defended freedom's cause at home and around the world. Often taken for granted, our freedom - though given us by God - must be defended in a fallen world. For, certainly, we have seen America flourish in freedom. This freedom has spawned our economic system of free-enterprise and factored in us maintaining our overarching psyche of national optimism and hope - bringing to history a nation never before equaled in accomplishment and purpose.  Indeed, the record of American success speaks, serving testimony that freedom benefits any people, in this and every time.

Yet protection of our national freedom is essential. For this reason we say, 'thank you', to the brave Americans who have made this possible for us by their sacrifice. On Veterans Day we honor those who have served and on Memorial Day we honor those who have fallen. Both days teaching the same lesson - that freedom, though granted by God and brought, ultimately, by freedom from sin because of Christ, is maintained 'nationally' and secured 'societally' at great price.

So we say, 'God Bless our Veterans.'  We honor you today, and say, 'thank you!' committing to not forget - neither you nor the price you've paid - enabling us to live free in a free land.

And... may God Bless America, too! - as she aids and defends the selfsame for others around the world!

Let freedom ring!


Pastor Sam
 

November 7, 2012

This morning I awoke to a gorgeous, sunshine-filled day that bespoke an opposite sentiment of many I am privileged to pastor. For these, the sun was not shinning when they awakened, and, in sentiment's place was gloom - a gloom over their sense that our culture appears bent on a path moving away from values held basic to Christian faith.

Considering this, as I prayed this morning, I sought God for a word I might share and was reminded of three simple, yet profound, principles we are all called to. For as God's people we are to:

1. Remember our responsibility - God forever calls His people, in the Old Testament, the New Testament and now, to repentance and revival.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

2. Rest in God's way - God is Judge, not us. This has forever been His responsibility, and remains. When the church attempts to take this from God, we lose our way - and we are admonished in God's Word to not do so.
For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God. 1 Corinthians 4: 3-4 

3. Reestablish our call and purpose -  The proclamation of the gospel is the supreme purpose of the church. God's compassion for sinners is what brought us Christ, and this same position, only, is what ultimately will ignite His church and bring change to our world, if it is to be. The church flourishes in righteousness and mercy, not in righteousness and bitterness, or fear, or anger, or... etc., etc., etc.
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Matthew 7: 1-4 
When God called Israel to repentance and to remembrance of its purpose of being a light to the Gentiles (Nations), He spoke this word through His prophet Micah:
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 
The 'justice', if there is any, that God has call us to is a justice of offering mercy to one another.
"This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Zechariah 7:9 
And the New Testament epistle from Jude reminds us that though we are to remain wary and wise to sin, we are to do so mercifully.
Keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh. Jude 1: 21-23 

So my prayer for each of us today is that we will be nothing less than what God has called us to be. For God still sits on His throne and His requirement of us is unchanged. Jonah did not want to go to Nineveh, but God put him in the belly of a whale and sent him there anyway. Jeremiah was considered by his peers to be a 'nut', yet his words are remembered today. And, Jesus? Well, He was nailed to a cross, and through this God brought redemption from sin.

So whether the sun is shinning for you today, or not - God's Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, is. Let us rejoice in this and be glad.  For we really do have...

Much yet to do,

Pastor Sam

BIG TEX

Yesterday's news that 'Big Tex' had caught fire and burned, just 25 minutes after the Texas State Fair opened, caught me by surprise. Taylor, our daughter who works downtown, called to tell me. My throat caught - then she laughingly helped, "I told my friends 'my Dad will cry,'" and she kindly moved on.

Big Tex represents more than just a 'talking tall man' for me - this child of the 50s, he represents memories and awe.  Born in 1950, 2 years before Big Tex himself, my beginnings were before computers and cell phones. My world consisted of TV with rabbit ears and only 3 channels, and color TV was something seen only at the store. I was a child of 'Mr. Peppermint,' 'Icky Twerp' and the 'Slam Bang Theater' (go look it up), and in my young days neither the Dallas Cowboys (nor Dallas Texans), existed - and when they did, they played in the Cotton Bowl, with fewer in the stands than when SMU played there. In other words, the Fair Grounds were everything to me - and BIG TEX, written always in CAPS and towering high over near east Dallas, became an icon of both our cultures past and its bright and bragg-adocious future yet to come. TEX saying, 'Welcome to the State Fair of Texas' was code for... "Welcome to Dallas, Y'all." 

As a boy my Dad, who rarely took off work for anything, somehow always 'took off' on our school's 'Fair Day'.  He'd meet us at the front gate, coming to join us from work, but once he did... the party began. This Dad was not the Dad of everyday, this was 'Fair Day Dad,' and he was amazing. There wasn't a ride he said 'NO' to, not one animal (at the LIVESTOCK SHOW) we did not stop to see, and Corny Dog's? their supply seemed limitless. Overlooking it all was BIG TEX, and the same admonition from Dad, "if we get separated, or you get lost, go to BIG TEX and wait for me there!"  Word's that, even today, are hard for me to write without choking up.  Dad is gone, and now...

Last evening I sat for a moment with Cody Jones, our Minister to Students whom I absolutely love, and we talked about BIG TEX and his burning. His reply was of comfort, "it was just clothes and a jaw, pastor, they will have him back up in no time, bigger and better."  And, of course, Cody is right.  I am sure that the unveiling of the new and improved BIGGER TEX will be a media sensation.  Who wouldn't want to watch this.  But, still... there's just something not right about his burning, at least for me. Something symbolic for this preacher, who's lived long enough to watch so much change - not only with our world at large, but with our world right here in Dallas.  

I have a few Dallas Newspapers that I've saved. The day Tom Landry died and the last issue of Dallas Times Herald are among them. Both of these 'front pages' report on icons of the past - "Landry" and the "Herald" - two icons which really did make us better. I suspect I'll save today's Dallas News, as well.  

"If we get separated or lost, go to BIG TEX and wait for me there!" 

And, I will, Dad :-) 

Pastor Sam 

IDOLATRY

Today's message was SUPPOSED to be the 3rd in my series, Culture in Crisis, focusing on three matters present in our culture that push against us being all God intended. Today, my 'Crisis' topic was "Idolatry", and the biblical cure, or antithesis, was to be WORSHIP - of CHRIST. So...

I got up this morning and headed to the church with message in hand - ready to deliver the solution.  For 23 years I have awakened on Sunday morning with one thing, often most primary, on my mind - Parkwayhills - and, well, today I learned that maybe this pastor might need to learn a thing or two himself.

When I arrived at the church I was informed we had no power - not to any part of our building.  Our campus was dark, the new children's building not accessible, no air, no coffee, no lights in the hallway.  Absolutely pitch black.  Inconvenient and frustrating, for sure, but remediable, or... so I thought. However, as the morning wore on it became ever more clear that power was NOT going to be restored to the building any time soon, making the already hectic day increasingly unsafe - especially for those of our congregation most vulnerable. And so, after a quick meeting with our Executive Administrator and Board President, the decision was made, and, one by one we began to inform people that 'worship' - at least the service scheduled for 10:45 - was cancelled.

Now throughout the day I have thought a lot about this - and from many angles. How much of our Christian experience, that which we call "our" Christianity, is really just a matter of social setting only?  A matter of friendships, our group, and not a matter of a true relationship - an everyday, intimate kind of relationship - with the One whom we call our Saviour?

Then, this... I thought about myself this morning.  Perfectly poised and ready to preach a message on Idolatry.  To preach to people who, in my mind, needed to give up the things of this world so they could focus on God, and worship Him.  Then it happened!  God pulled out from under me one of the very things that I most worship. That's right, church! I worship (spend an inordinate amount of my time, energy and money) "worshipping" church - often, confessedly, forgetting the very One who came and now stands as the church's Bridegroom. Did I really need to meet at 10:45 am at 2700 North Dallas Parkway to worship Him? Was His power turned off this morning? Well, we all know the answer don't we.  Not at all!

So that was my Sunday. A preacher without a congregation, a voice without a pulpit (at least for my one hour today), but, certainly, a preacher - a worshipper - who was NOT without a Saviour.

Yes, Idolatry comes in many forms, and the Bible teaches us that God despises them all!  And that is is why He said...

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me.” You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, ... ... Exodus 20: 1-5a

And we all can learn from Him about this!  :-)

Till Sunday, then,

Pastor Sam
  

Calvin Miller, Preacher, Poet and Christian of Influence

I read recently of the passing of Dr. Calvin Miller, a retired professor at Beeson Divinity School of Samford University in Birmingham Alabama.http://www.sbcbaptistpress.org/BPnews.asp?ID=38539

I first met Calvin when we were speaking together at the Evangelism Conference of the Kansas-Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists in Wichita Kansas.  That was in 1972, and I was a very naive and inexperienced 'preacher' at the 'too young' age of 22. 

Miller was already famous - both as a writer and a successful church planter - and this was years before church planting was cool.  He had begun a new church in the suburbs of Omaha Nebraska with just 10 people, one that had grown to a congregation of several hundred members, and I was mesmerized by him. He could do it all, plus... he was 'bright.'  And I was attracted by his talent and gifts while at the same time drawn to his unabashed love for Christ and ability to express it in ways seldom heard.  In short... our souls were knit.  

Calvin had me at his church the next winter for a youth revival, and I remember us having such a great time talking. Like him, I had a deep love for literature - as this was my major in college - and sometime afterward, as I was wrapping up my undergraduate degree, he called to ask if I would consider coming to Omaha to serve with him as his associate. I was flattered, thrilled, and considered this, of course, but... it was not to be.  
Years later, by the sweet grace of God, I was blessed to answer the call of my youth and from 39-44 attend seminary and complete my MDIV while planting parkwayhills. One of my classes in seminary was titled, 'Spiritual Formation', and to my joy Dr. Calvin Miller was listed as professor.  Nearly 19 years later we had reconnected! So that I could not help but pause today and reflect on all this, then post the following on Facebook to his family. 

Dear family of Dr. Miller, 

I knew Calvin, first, as a young preacher in my 20s when he had me preach at Westside for a weekend youth revival. I remember it being very cold in Nebraska - and him taking me to watch ice skating in the park near the church. Cold as it was, Calvin was a warm soul that day as we sat there talking - and he has remained that way, always.

After this, years would pass before we were to meet again- but that day came when, as a man now in his early 40s, I sat in his class at SWBTS. Much had happened to me in the 18 years since our last conversation. I had drifted away from my call, but was now returned  - by the precious grace of God - and was planting a church of my own, so that his wisdom and bits of conversation with me before and after class were of great encouragement.

I am sure to be but one of many whom you will hear from in the days to come, but please know that I count your husband and father as one of those persons possessing of talent and sincere Christian spirit who made an extraordinary difference in my life. I majored in Creative Writing as an undergraduate, but have never pursued that love and gift as I might, or should. Dr. Miller was forever encouraging me to do so. Perhaps it is time.

Love in Christ, Pastor Sam Dennis, Plano Texas 

Yes, Dr. Calvin Miller was a fresh soul to me.  A reminder that...

Preachers are made of varied things - of flesh and blood, and souls that sing.  
And when, at best, they write or speak -  they tell those who hear of the gift called Christ.  

You were this and more to me - a soul that soared with words that rang.  
And if in life I dare the same - like you, I pray, I'll but sing of Him!   
(In Memoriam of Dr. Calvin Miller, at news of his passing to Glory) 

Pastor Sam Dennis
20 August, 2012

Readying for Sunday

What a joy as rain returned to North Texas this week. The effect of this blessing is felt universally - both to nature and to us - and we are certainly grateful for this needed nourishment.  

Today I sit in my study putting the finishing touches on my message for tomorrow. One that will focus on a Third Core Value of our church - that of Learning About God through the study and application of His Word. As I think about this, and gaze out my window, I cannot help drawing a parallel with what I am witnessing in nature.  Precious rain upon a parched earth is incomparable as to effectiveness. Likewise, the same may be said concerning the effect of God's Word when read, studied (meditated upon) and applied to the lives of His children.

The Psalmist wrote,
"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night."
"He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers."  Psalm 1:1-3

Belinda awakened early this morning and blessed our household with a feast of scrambled eggs, fresh biscuits and a variety of fruits to enjoy. It is nearly noon, now, and I am still satisfied. How many mornings have I grabbed a bagel, a roll, or simply rushed down a cup of coffee only to find myself back in the kitchen in a hour or less, scrounging around for something more?  But not today! I am totally satisfied.

My prayer for life is that I will feast on the table prepared for me by God - one founded in Christ and nourished by time in His Word.

Till Sunday, then


Pastor Sam

The Peace of God, from Brasil

The peace of God comes to us in diverse ways.  Sometimes I witness this in the sheer magnitude of His power, as mountains are moved and strongholds are broken down.  But, at other times, His peace is revealed to me personally, in the calming of my spirit, or shall I say an overriding sense that comes as I am about my duties, my day, or involved in worship.

Last night such peace flooded my soul. The worship team was leading preceding my message, and they led us in a song that brought to me a wonderful sense of the deep blessing of God.  The song was about the 'blood of Jesus" and it sang in Portuguese, "Sangue de JESUS." As I repeated these words, and thought about the cleansing power of God brought to be by the precious blood of Christ, I was overwhelmed with gratitude and ushered into the very presence of Christ through my own worship of Him. In that moment I forgot about the cares of my day and of the worries and concerns of the mission we were on. I forgot about the size of the crowd, even my own message I was about to bring, and found myself in the very arms of Christ expressing my own love and gratitude back to Him.

Today it is Saturday and I am yet in Brasil.  A festival is occurring in our village.  People are on the streets and there is hurry everywhere, but I am rejoicing that my Saviour has me in the palm of His hand, and that 'nothing can pluck' (John 10:28) me out of it. His blood is sufficient for my sin, and, for the sins of all who call upon the name of LORD.  I have been bought by His great price - His sacrifice, and nothing can separate me from His love.

Where are you today?  Perhaps you are traveling and far away from home like me.  Or, perhaps you are right in your own home, concerned over the worries and the hurriedness of your day. Look to Christ!  See how great a Saviour He is and know the peace with God that only comes by turning your life to Him so that that you might experience the peace of God by living a life in Him.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."  Romans 15:13

"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7

Indeed, 

Pastor Sam 

From Brasil

Since the summer of 2007, missing none but one, I have been privileged to travel to Brasil and work with our ParkwayHills Foreign Mission Partnership, called P-70. This partnership of our church is for the purpose of planting and strengthening Baptist churches in the state of Minas Gerais, and we work here with a missionary and friend whom ParkwayHills supports -Jairo Campos, the ministries founder. The region of Minas Gerias that we cover is huge, and over 20 churches have been planted by our efforts since we first began. It is a wonderful work, one well worth our support.


This year we are working in 2 new cities. These cities, which form the seat of 2 municipalities (counties) are small in terms of size, with populations within the cities themselves of less than 3,000 persons - but... the cities are growing. Their names are Itacambria and Francisco Dumont, and neither of them have an evangelical church faithfully sharing the gospel. Our sister church - started by Jairo - is actually traveling to these cities on a weekly basis, in an effort to win some adults to Christ, that they may be the beginning of a new church plant.  In other words. this is a 'from the ground up' work we are engaged in. 

We have several teams working with us in reaching these two cities.  There is a visitation team, which this year features our own Glenn Sampson and Carla Cox, along with others. And there is also a Vacation Bible School team, which is led by Debbie Irons and also has Claire Davenport and Taylor Dennis Butler, my daughter, as key leaders/teachers.  Dave Davenport is our logistics person this year, and he has been a major translator for me and others as we have witnessed to persons on the street and in the market.

In the afternoons we divide into two groups, and travel to villages in outlying areas of the municipalities - most of which have less than 1,000 persons, and often less. In these villages we 'round up' the children by passing through the streets with music, games and Bible Stories, and - of course - with clowns.  Then, if a crowd of adults are gathered, as well, I or another Norte Americano will preach.  In the evening we hold evangelistic services, and I am privileged to preach in these.  Already we have seen over 200 persons come to faith in Christ, as a result of these efforts, and we give praise to GOD.

Pray for our continued safety and success as we complete our work in these villages. Then, pray for us as we travel back to Montes Claros, where we will participate in a service, which will be the 'admission' of our ParkwayHills mission, the P-70 Church of Montes Claros, being admitted into the Baptist Association of Churches for Minas Gerais, as a fully accredited and participating church within the Baptist Convention of Brasil.  It will be a great day for ParkwayHills, and for P-70, in completing this step.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Sam

Mayberry, Andy Griffith and Fourth of July

The news this week that Andy Griffith had passed away brought a flood of memories to my mind. Memories of my own family, life in they early 60s, and the lone TV sitting centered in our Living Room and from which perceptions for our day and time were fed. My nostalgia was so strong that Belinda and I unpacked a DVD featuring a few of the old "Andy Griffith Show" episodes - and played it through the family room TV throughout the day.  Andy was 86, and his passing has marked myriad of comments - especially from my generation - concerning the character's he portrayed, the man he was and the times he seemed to represent. As far as the 'Andy Griffith Show' was concerned (CBS, 1960 -68), each story - presented through the comically natural, homespun humor of characters from the fictitious town of Mayberry, North Carolina - brought a simple but poignant message of love, kindness and the ways of encouragement. They (Andy and the Gang) helped us laugh at the presumption of our own circumstance, and left us with a hope that good guys really can win - not just in Mayberry, but in our own life and town too.

Now this week we also celebrated our nations 236th birthday - and I wondered, how can it be possible that 36 years have passed since our nation's Bi-Centennial? And, more, what do the youth of our nation think of that past event now?  Do they think of 36 years ago as ancient history?  Could that be?  The answer, I realize, is 'yes' - today's young are no different than I was when I used to listen to my High School History Teacher tell of the Great Depression, which, by the way, preceded my Sophomore year by the same span of time - 36 years.

And what does all this say to me, now?  Well, I suppose it says in the very least that 'story' is important.  Even more, it says that the 'why' of our story is important too.  Passing to each generation there must be those cherished parts of our story that are true and honest.  Both the good and the bad.  Today, as I reflect on past times - both the Andy Griffith part of America and the deeply-rooted prejudice part - I must be careful with my responsibility of sharing this story to those who come behind me, telling of both the what and the why.  Likewise, as Americans we must all be careful with our past.  We must know it and teach it within our present day context - so that it might come to bear upon the issues of our times.  We must not so lionize our past that we don't tell the whole truth, but we must also not be ashamed to call to mind the things that were right about it, so that they may call into legitimate question those things which plague us today.  To forget our past is dangerous, to worship it is foolish, but to remember and apply it to the applications of our times is to achieve the betterment of us all.




Pastor Sam  

2nd Peter 1:12 ‘Therefore I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you.’ (NASB)

All the pools are green (all the pools are green)

If you are too young to remember the Mama's and the Papa's, then chances are you did not get the pun in my title.  In fact, unless you - like me - are constantly singing scores of obscure tunes in your head as you take in people, scenery and dialogue, then you likely STILL didn't get it.  But... that's just me. It's who I am (as they say) and, well... I just can't hide it! (Oops, there's another one - I know, I know, I know, I know, I know I want you).

But - back to my title - and my plight. Belinda and I have spent the better part of our short summer thus far trying to get the 'green' out of our pool, and we've tried everything.  Everything, however, EXCEPT calling in a professional.  So today I called one - and complained of my pool's condition.  Urgently I told the poor pool guy over the phone, "my pool is green!!!" And that's when I heard this line from him - sir, "all the pools are green." So that I added - and couldn't help it - I know, "and the sky is gray (and the sky is gray)."  And, though my mind was busy singing, I was adept enough in this moment to realize that the conversation - as far as my pool was concerned - was going nowhere. In order to fix my pool, I had to have the professional come out - so that, HE (the professional), could actually see it.  Just saying my pool was green wasn't going to be enough! Whether sung or not.

Now - are you ready for this? - on the same day - today - I sat in the office of a service advisor for Belinda's car and happened to listen in as he talked on the phone to another client who had called him just as I'd walked in. "Sir, I think you need to bring the car in."  Then silence as he waited for the voice on the other end. Then, "what?" "You want me to listen." "Well, sir, I'll try."  Followed by silence as he tried to listen to the man's car over the phone. Then, "No sir, I can't hear anything."  "Really sir, if you will just bring the car in!!!" And on, and on, and on they went - with me hearing it all - most incredulously.

When he finally hung up I said to him, "I can't believe someone would actually want you to diagnose a car problem by listening to their engine over the phone!"  And he said, "Yes, pastor, you wouldn't believe what all I get asked to do. It's like someone wanting me to fix a pool without ever looking at their water." And... you guessed it, as I sat there looking at him I wanted to hide.  I'd been found out. Had he been reading my mail? Had he talked to my pool guy?

Now I've discovered that we are all like this at times.  We want an instant fix to what ails us, and we'll usually call everyone before calling that someone who can really help.

One of the questions I often ask my parishioners is, "have you prayed about this?" And I can usually tell by their response whether they have or haven't. To take something to God - to really ask Him for guidance and leadership - is a rare thing, even among we Christians. It seems we'll talk to almost anyone before we will the Real ONE who both cares and can help.

In our Bible God is pictured as many things - but one of the more consistent and comforting images is that of Shepherd.  In John's gospel we have Christ describing himself as the 'Good Shepherd' (John 10) - One who 'knows' His sheep.  So that an abundance of our difficulty in our real, everyday relationship with God seems to stem from us not practically realizing Who God Is, What He Does, and What this Means - to us.  He is our Shepherd and we are His sheep!  Amazing!

David wrote - "The Lord is My Shepherd, I shall not want" - and he was able to write and know this because of how and what he learned as he trusted in God - often from a cave.   David saw God as his care-giver, and this changed his heart.

So the next time you have a 'green pool', like me, let's both try calling in a professional. What do you say? Perhaps if we do, this will change the tune we ALL sing.

(Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7)


Pastor Sam

Jumping June-ipers

June is a wonderful month that I thoroughly enjoy. Like the Juniper tree named from the selfsame root (pun intended), it seems to offer hope, comfort and a certain kind of 'evergreen' grandeur.  Why?  Kids are out of school, graduation celebrations abound, and Pastor Sam finds himself with 'weddings a plenty!'  All of which do keep me jumping.

Tonight I will perform a wedding in downtown Dallas - and next Saturday I will attend to another of the same in Highland Park. Both of these are events I look forward to for the couples who will stand before me are each deeply committed to a marriage that will honor Him. What joy!  

This Sunday it will be our church's privilege to celebrate our High School Senior class of 2012, something I especially look forward to. In fact, I find it hard to imagine a Sunday with any greater, or more practical, 'church-family' significance. Graduating a class of young people whom we love and are committing to pray for before 'sending them off' - is a charge and responsibility of the highest order.  

In both the recent days past as well as the near weeks going forward, I will speak, pray, address, attend and be seated as a honored guest at such events as graduation exercises, weddings, Eagle Scout ceremonies, company retirement receptions, et. al.  At each I will have an opportunity to celebrate and/or speak on behalf of the person and their accomplishment, and share how they have honored God in such.   

I once heard a pastor say that he dreaded such occasions. That he found them a waste of time and worked hard to excuse himself by sending one of his associates to cover for him. I did not say anything, but I wish I had.  For I believe this 'pastor' to be quite wrong.  It is our privilege to be with our people as they celebrate the days of their lives.  In most cases they have not invited us out of duty but because they love us.  As well, they have more often done so to acknowledge their love for God.  So that attending is both a joy and fulfillment of our calling as pastors. 

Jesus once attended a wedding and as far as I know He was not even asked to speak, though he did aid in the celebration by performing a miracle.  He gave them new wine! As a pastor I want to be the same for those over whom God has given me charge.  Ministry is not performed from an ivory tower but out on the street - those painted in pain and those donned in celebration.  So I think I'll just go ahead and 'jump into June' by celebrating!  And, I'll pray for YOU! That you might know, as well - some... 

of the very same!

Pastor Sam  

Tom's Smile

One of the things I have always loved about Tom McIntyre is his smile.  It is an indiscriminate smile - one shared freely, whether he knows you or not - and it is coupled with eyes that literally light up as he does.  In fact, his eyes are part of his smile -  they go together.  In a way that leaves you wondering which of the two is most distinguishing. But then, that doesn't matter - because it's just the way it happens.  It's Tom's smile.

I couldn't say how many times I have enjoyed Tom's smile, but I can relate it to years. Since the late 70s, or over 30 years.  Back then, standing in the foyer of Northway Baptist Church, he used it on me a lot. In fact, the Sunday night I first 'flirted' with Belinda, Tom used it then. We were serving as ushers together, and I'd stepped in front of him to take her to her seat. I told Belinda I'd give her a nickel if she'd save me a seat by her (my line). Then, later, when I came back down the aisle to sit with her, there was Tom in my place - he used it on me then.

He used it on me recently, too! Standing amidst the back rows of ParkwayHills, while I worked the crowd. He had a tidbit, some story, some remark to remind me of days gone by, or something we once did, or some joke he'd just heard. His eyes twinkled and he looked at me with his grin, causing me to smile back at him - as a thanks for the humor and reminder not to take myself, or him, too seriously.

This morning, before I went to the church, I dropped by the hospital to check on he and Rita. I was pleased to hear he'd passed through the night without incident. Good news, I thought.  As I hugged Rita, she motioned toward Tom in bed, telling me to take a look. When I did, Tom's eyes lit up. I said to him, "Hey buddy, I love you - and I'm so proud of you." Then, it happened, he opened his mouth as if to speak - and I said, "Tom, this girl (pointing at Rita) saved your life."  "The day you decided to marry her was the best day of your life."  Then I winked at him, and... he smiled back and mouthed the words, "I know."  I started crying, and bent over him to pray, and Tom, smiling - with eyes lit up, squeezed my hand.

So it was a good day, today.  I saw Tom's smile. And for this I say...

Praise be to God!


Pastor Sam

Praying for Tom

In January of 1989 Dr. Bill Tinsley, Director of Missions for Denton County Baptist Association and an old friend, dropped by my office at Northway Baptist Church to ask me to pray about starting a new church in the growing area where Denton, Dallas and Collin Counties converged. One of the first persons I told this to was my long-time friend, Tom McIntyre.  So that as things continued, the first couple I sat down with to ask if they'd consider being a part was... Tom and Rita McIntyre.  I met them in their home on Briargrove, the one they still live in, and Tom said, 'yes,' but agreed - upon Rita's urging, that they would pray about it first.

That was Tom, both then and now. For he was never one to labor too long over any decision, major OR minor.  When he decided to marry Rita, after years of being a staunch single adult, he did - as quick as he could.  And... when he decided to help launch a new church, he  did that too, as quick as he could.

Tom's home was the place we held our first 'Core Group' gathering. It was Tom's business that housed our church for its first 6 months - calling it, affectionately, "Car Church".  And it was Tom and Rita who led the way in mission spirit by being first to say, 'children matter' - as much, if not more, than we adults - and have lived to show this by serving as 5th and 6th grade SMBS teachers for the past 21 years.

Every year Tom would dress up as 'Santa Claus', then invite all the PHBC children to come to his home to see him (Santa), with no one knowing, or perhaps daring to ask, "where's Tom?"  And every year - Sunday after Sunday - Tom and Rita would come faithfully to church. If in town, they'd be at THEIR CHURCH, always expecting God to do something great, and HE DID.

Over 15 years ago Tom and Rita began to feed the homeless with a friend he'd met from Park Cities Baptist Church. Today, that friend has gone home to be with Jesus, and Tom and Rita have carried this ministry on. A ministry where 1000s of homeless know that Jesus loves them because Tom does.

Today Tom and Rita finished their Saturday run on the Katy Trail. Tom had run it every day this week, logging 52 miles, but today he ran it with Rita.  As they drove up the alley toward their garage and home, Tom suffered a major heart attack. Rita administered all the CPR methods she could, garnering instruction from the 911 operator until Paramedics could arrive - and, once there, the medics worked with Tom to attain some response.  Now, Tom is in the hospital where the best team available is working to save his life. The next days are critical.  His heart and pulse must stabilize - and they will monitor all activity, including the brain, for the next hours before proceeding with any next steps or surgery.

So what can you do?  Well, I have been a pastor for 23 years - and Tom was my first parishioner.  I love Tom but am convinced that God loves him even more. Selfishly I want him to live.  I want to see him on the 'back row' of ParkwayHills again.  And I want to travel with him off I-30, in  near south Dallas, to pass out food and the love of Christ to those without a home.  So, tonight, I am praying for Tom McIntyre, and ask if you might join me in the same. Adding this, that God loves us all.  That He hears our prayer. And that the prayers of a righteous man avail much.

God is in charge, of this I am certain. But He also wants us - instructs us - to pray.  So... this I do.

Your pastor, praying...


Pastor Sam

Dallas, on this 'Silent Day' of Passion Week

According to scholars, today - the Wednesday before Easter - marks our Passion Week calendar as, Christ's "Silent Day." After a Sunday of 'Triumphal Entry' - with a quick look around at the Temple, then, at least 2 more days of going to the same to cleanse, correct and teach, many believe Jesus spent this day back in Bethany with his close friends and associates. And, because no specific events in our gospels point to having occurred on this this day, it is called, "Silent."

As I wakened this morning from yesterday's horrific destruction across our city, this word 'silence' spoke volumes to me. For yesterday brought frightening tales - stories of people huddled in bathrooms and under stairs as homes and property ripped from around them. Stories of grandparents and friends clinging to children and pets as wind gusts exceeded 150 miles per hour. Then, familiar descriptions of - "the sound was 'like a train,' and, 'I could hear nothing else - not even my own voice, it was so loud." So that I understand what is meant when some say, silence is powerful. For today, the North Texas silence I hear - is - not just by contrast, but by possibility - especially after last night.

In reality Jesus was never silent. His very coming bore a message from the megaphone of God. So that whether he sat on a hillside alone or preached to hundreds from a boat, both hill, water and boat gave witness that the Creator of the Universe had passed. And now the fact that no story of Christ's action hails from this day does speak - reminding us that God is always communicating - on days of storms and days that follow.

So on 'Silent Days' we may speak, too. We may give thanks to God that life is spared, that across the meteroplex and Dallas love still reigns and that - though property is lost - people are yet kind, caring and compassionate. And, that today... we might have one day more - one 'Silent Day' more - to give Him praise.

To Him be Glory forever!

Pastor Sam

25 Hours and "Waiting"

I am sitting in my home absolutely blown away that no one is here right now, save me. "Am I supposed to be somewhere?" "Did I forget something?" Such are the thoughts of this FOB (Father of the Bride) as I count down to my daughter Taylor's wedding tomorrow.

Of course I used to enjoy the movie of that same name, the one starring Steve Martin titled, "Father of the Bride," but, then... I became one - and, well, lately it has just been too painful for me to watch.

So as I sit here today, I am for the moment lost in thought. Thoughts about the wonderful journey that brought me here. Of the day Taylor was born and of her first Christmas. Thoughts of her climbing into her red wagon to 'go with Dad' as we canvassed the Willow Bend neighborhoods leaving off flyers and inviting folks to 'visit' our new church. I thought about her sitting in my study and 'warting' me with her incessant talking as I tried to finish a paper for seminary, of her playing soccer and leading the charge, and of her on 'center-stage' acting in a school play. I thought about her first time of riding a bus to school - and me following that very same bus in my car all the way - and I thought of her going on her first date, her first day of college, and her first everything, and me, well... waving good bye and waiting.

So as I sit here now - waiting for my next assignment, my next duty, and my next place to be - I am also waiting on Taylor and tomorrow, when I will walk her down the aisle. I guess I have been waiting on her all of my life. Yet isn't that what Dad's do? (LOL) with feigned and feeble 'tongue in cheek' complaining. For it has been a great ride. One I would not have missed for anything in this world.

Pastor Sam, Father of the Bride

This Morning's Prayer

At 'five-thirty' this morning I climbed into my truck and ventured - not far - but to the church and my day. Within moments after leaving home, I sat in our church's lot - where before me waited the large, silent, buildings lit by street lamps pushing back the dark. Sitting there I looked across her full scope to reflect upon the daily activity these buildings bear. I thought of the hundreds of people who enter and exit each door, of the stories, laughter and prayers heard, and of thoughts never expressed. I thought of my friends, of acquaintances, and of the powerful, insignificant and unknown - and, how, in just a few short hours, the lamps would be off, the dark would be gone, and the building would be bustling anew.

Just hours before I had walked down her halls - by the choir rehearsing near my office and into the youth room up the north-most stairs. In my walk I witnessed the unsure ways of teens and the determined ways of musicians, leaving one peer group for another more certain and work and office so gladly behind. Just one day before I stood in our Worship Center addressing 120 preschool Dad's, where I challenged them to love God absolutely, their wives passionately and their children unconditionally. And... had on the same night peeked in on a National Charity League chapter while planning, a Women's Bible Study sharing, a Boys Scout Troop learning, and a Dance Class busily tapping. So that as I looked upon the church this morning, I wondered what these buildings might say, if they could. Would they groan with pain - as some might think - or sing with utter joy?

A few months ago, as Belinda and I were visiting in New York City, we walked about Manhattan's Mid-Town with a vengeance. From 37th on the south to Columbia University on our north, we traversed above ground to see it all. We had a great time, but, to Belinda's dismay I could not stay out of the churches. They all interested me. Big ones, little ones, young ones and old - I was drawn to both their architecture and activity - or - in some cases, lack thereof. What made some busy? What made some not? What made some historic? And what made some just, well, old? Two churches stood out - one near the southwest corner of Central Park - Holy Trinity Lutheran (65th and Central Park West) - with a gorgeous red door that said 'come in,' and another some 45 or so blocks to the north - The Cathedral of St. John the Divine (110th and Amsterdam). For both were a sight to behold! In checking news about them on-line today, I found the cathedral strapped for cash and attempting to plan a real estate development on its property's north end, and the other - Holy Trinity - readying for an event they are calling, 'Treasuring Life' - in which they have planned four evenings focused on treasuring one's self, other's, creation, and their church. MMMMM????

It's now after lunch and I am looking out my window - and, confessedly, wondering of us. What will the ParkwayHills church family be doing when we reach 120 years old? We, a church yet to reach 24 years and in many ways just begun, what is said of us now?

Last week a lady from our community stopped me in the store to speak - she said she wanted to thank me for ParkwayHills, then started, "pastor, I am not a member, but I found myself in the church four times last week." I asked her, 'and what were you doing?' To which she replied, "well, twice I was listening to and studying God's Word, once I was praying with a group of friends, and the fourth time I was working with a charity league that serves our community." I said to her, 'good.' Then added, 'would you pray with me that what you experienced here last week will be the same as what will be experienced from this place ALWAYS?' She assured me she would.

Will you?

Pastor Sam

'MORE' - from the book of Philippians

This Sunday begins my first message series of the new year 2012. It is taken from my study and prayerful application of Paul's letter to the ancient church at Philippi. Since my first reading, now many years ago, I have always loved this particular letter. When I read it I sense Paul's joy, to which he early-on refers, and now - as your pastor - that very joy has become my own.

The letter talks about things that are close to me, not the least of which is the gospel itself. And, today, as I sit amidst that which is transpiring about me, the partnership these Philippians shared in is something of which I am acutely aware. For, gazing out my window I see construction workers busy preparing a building that will house children soon to hear and receive the gospel from within new walls. Listening through my door I hear sounds of mothers picking up children and learning news of Women's Bible Studies yet to come -'one just for them!' And reaching for my desk I touch my Bible to read from God's Word, the same Word which will be proclaimed this Sunday and throughout each day of this coming year - or til Christ comes. So that I literally tremble with anticipation of both what is, and, what is yet to be.

Philippi was established in 356 BC by the Macedonian King, Philip II, and was abandoned in the 14th century after the Ottoman Conquest. Sitting at the headwaters of the Aegean Sea, in Eastern Macedonia, it was a strategic site for defending neighboring mines containing gold. Describing its geographic locale today, one would say it sits west of Istanbul and north of Athens 400 and 350 kilometers respectively. Population estimates of Philippi in the time of Paul range in the neighborhood of 300,000 inhabitants, though these numbers are hard to authenticate. Regardless, it was of significant size to attract the attention of Paul, to bear historical mention of commerce and trade, and to house a Jewish population of enough size to garner the beginnings of a new - and ultimately, very successful - church.

But beyond this, let me just say - Paul loved this church. The Philippian Christians were not perfect, but they did serve a perfect God. They were those who had been saved by Him sending His Only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for their sins - and unto the proclamation of this great truth and the building of His Kingdom their attention was now fully turned. Yes, Paul loved them, gave praise for them - but... wanted for them MORE.

So that this is what I think of when I think now of ParkwayHills. We are a commendable church too - maybe not always, but certainly on most days. And as I complete this first message - the one Ill bring this coming Lord's Day, I simply must say I, too, am ... "thanking my God in all my remembrance of you." Indeed - ready to have us learn of the MORE God has for us as we serve Him faithfully here.

Till then,

Pastor Sam