Popcorn Heads

Moses was a production I'd wanted to see at Branson's Sight and Sound Theater. A couple times I'd driven thru Branson, MO and seen the signs. I'd also read about it when googling Branson's attractions. Other biblical productions had been performed at Branson's Sight and Sound Theater, and were just as appealing. The opportunity to see one of these productions hadn't ever worked out, until recently one finally presented itself. My daughter, grandson, and I planned to meet in Branson for a weekend. I took the weekend trip as an opportunity to see Moses. We secured tickets on-line, and off to Moses we went. 

It was an early showing, and as the theater filled it looked as if every seat was taken. Our seats were center stage in the upper section. One of the employees told me he thought the section we were in had the best seats. When we got to the section, our seats were the furtherest away from the isle. We had to pass by about 15 people to get to our seats. Each person had to literally stand up to let us pass. The seating was tight. Luckily we did not have to use the restroom during the show.

As we waited for the show to begin, the lights flickered a warning. About 10 minutes later the lights dimmed, and the show began. As we sat there, and things got under way, fog and blue lights illuminated from the stage. For some reason my eyes scanned the audience sitting before us. It was then that I saw the Popcorn Heads. Something about the way the blue lights filled the theater, and mixed with the gray haired people in front of us, caused an illusion for my eyes. A large part of the population that travel to Branson, MO are senior citizens. A large part of the population attending Moses this day were senior citizens. The blue lights illuminating thru the audience's heads caused a visual popcorn effect. It seemed almost every other person had gray hair, and their head seemed to glow with the blue lighting. My heart went soft. I longed for my grandmother with her brilliant gray hair to be in the crowd. She would have been the most beautiful Popcorn Head in the theater. 

As I watch senior citizens, it seems their hearts and minds are turning heavenward. Perhaps this is why a big part of the crowd in attendance to see Moses had gray hair. We grow up hearing the true stories of the Old Testament. We hear of the miracles, workings, and love of God. Sometimes it's not until we turn into a Popcorn Head do we take the time to truly mediate on the significance and truth of scripture.

The miracles, workings, and love of God, are not reserved exclusively for Popcorn Heads. The miracles, workings, and love of God, are for ALL people no matter our age, status in life, race, language we speak, or where we live. Feel free to join the Popcorn Heads that sat in the theater that day. Turn your heart and mind heavenward. See what God has to show you thru His miracles, His work and His love.

 

Check out the lovely gray heads in the crowd. The blue lighting on stage created the 'Popcorn Heads'.

Don't we need to be more like Popcorn Heads?

70 x 7

Numbers go into infinity. This concept I recently tried to explain to our six year old grandson. I'm not sure if I got my point across, after all he was only six. Some concepts can only be understood with age, and education.

Life tosses us a great amount of obstacles, both seen and unseen. Some we clear with flying colors, and others we fall face forward into. The falling face forward into are the one's that get us into trouble. The falling face forward into one's are what we can call sin. These obstacles are everywhere, both seen and unseen. These obstacles get in the way of our relationship with Jesus Christ.

As long as I'm breathing, you can bet there's a good probability I'm struggling with obstacles, sin. They jump into the path of my journey called 'life'. No matter what I do, or where I go, they are there. The one's I fall face forward into cause my relationship with Jesus to take a hit. I can ask forgiveness, and draw nearer to him. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9  He has promised to forgive me.

So how many times can I sin? Oh, the possibilities are unlimited. How many times can I be forgiven? Oh, the promise goes into infinity. The number is unlimited. As many times as I sin, forgiveness is offered. With age and education, I'm understanding more and more the magnitude of this number. Forgiveness is mine no matter how many times I fall face forward over, or into, an obstacle.

We are told to offer the same forgiveness to others. Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.  Matthew 18:21-22

Whoa, hold on there. Now that's a different story. We want Jesus to forgive us. We want the relationship with him restored. We want his unlimited forgiveness. Why is it such a struggle to give to others the very gift that has been offered to us? Why do we hold on to it?

Let's try to do this dance a little different. Let's see where it takes us. It could be a little scary. Surely if Jesus tells us to, it must be the best thing for us. 

Pictures taken in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, north of Gatlinburg, TN.

Jamming

On a six hour drive, what can a person to do? Radio, audio book, quiet, window up, window down, cd, snack, or maybe even chew gum. Passing time, and passing miles is the goal. A good selection for myself when I want to release some stress is to roll the windows down and jam it out with the radio. 

Sirius XM radio was free, for the first year after I purchased my truck, then it was an annal fee. A year of wetting my appetite with uninterrupted music, I couldn't help but renew my subscription and pay for the service. There are a few stations pre-programmed on the radio in my truck. One of my most frequented stations is 'The Message'. It plays contemporary christian songs of praise and worship.

On a six hour drive back from my daughters, I was driving thru Harrison, AR. I was a little over the half way point in the trip. I was feeling a little groggy. It was a warm day in the mid 90's. The air conditioner in the truck was having a difficult time keeping it cool, with the heat and humidity. My black truck was certainly absorbing every ounce of heat from the sun, and the hot asphalt. It was north of Harrison where I rolled my windows down, hoping it would help my grogginess. Even though it was hot outside, the air blowing thru the truck was a welcome relief. Fresh air and sunshine filled the truck. With all four windows down traveling about 60-65 mph, it was refreshing.

Coming into Harrison the speed limit decreased, so I slowed the truck down. The radio had been blaring.  I decided to turn it down with the slower speed, so not to disturb other drivers.  A song came on the XM Radio that moved me. A song by Laura Dangle, called 'Trust In You', flowed thru the speakers. It was the truth of the song that made me want to share it. Putting my finger on the control button, I pumped the volume up to maximum. I was jamming! As I drove thru town, I continued jamming with the radio. As an introvert, it's not always easy to speak up in a one on one encounter. I found the song blaring thru my speakers an opportunity to share. I hope the Bose speakers penetrated the walls and windows of every car passed that day. 

Isn't it best to be jamming with Jesus? Roll your windows down, let your hair fly, and go jamming. 

Lyrics

Letting go of every single dream
I lay each one down at Your feet
Every moment of my wandering
Never changes what You see

I’ve tried to win this war I confess
My hands are weary I need Your rest
Mighty Warrior, King of the fight
No matter what I face, You’re by my side

When You don’t move the mountains I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers as I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!

Truth is, You know what tomorrow brings
There’s not a day ahead You have not seen
So, in all things be my life and breath
I want what You want Lord and nothing less

When You don’t move the mountains I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers as I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!

You are my strength and comfort
You are my steady hand
You are my firm foundation; the rock on which I stand

Your ways are always higher
Your plans are always good
There’s not a place where I’ll go, You’ve not already stood

When You don’t move the mountains I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers as I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!

I will trust in You!
I will trust in You!
I will trust in You!

Written by Lauren Daigle, Michael Farren, Paul Mabury • Copyright © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

I want one of those baskets

A friend of mine from Ghana, Africa gave me a basket made by one of the local artisans in the country. It's a beautiful basket made of four colors of grass. Three of the colors are dyed grasses of purple, green, and red, and the fourth color is made of a natural color dried grass. The four colors of grass are woven together and the end result is a sturdy basket. He brought many baskets to the house, and gave me an opportunity to choose one. The basket I chose was unlike any I'd seen before. Most baskets my husband brings home from Ghana have handles. Instead of handles, this basket has woven hand grips (if that is the correct way to say it). I liked the uniqueness of the basket, so it was the one chosen. The baskets from Ghana are considered a treasure to me. The time, effort and craftsmanship used to make each of the baskets is appreciated each time I look at one. 

On my iPhone there is an app called 'You Version'. It's a bible app. It has many versions of the Holy Bible available to read, or listen too. It is a powerful tool for studying, reading, listening, and learning God's Word. My mind tends to wander a little when I sit and read. Distractions fly thru my mind, and before I know it a subject I did not intend on thinking about has overridden the words my eyes are scanning on the page. Frustration sets in and I attempt again to focus on the words I see. Over and over, my mind jumps  track and runs off into a different direction. The audio Bible available on 'You Version' has become a good friend of mine. I've found it easier to stay tuned into what is being read audibly, than what I read visually. More focus means more listening, and learning, and applying. 

I've heard sermons from these passages of scripture; 'Jesus answered, "I am the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." Philip said, "Lord show us the Father and that will be enough for us." Jesus answered: "Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father." John 14:6-9a. I want to know God more. I understand from these verses, if I want to know God more, learning about Jesus will give me knowledge about God. 

The old testament is wonderful to listen to on the 'You Version' app. I find the language soothing. Being reminded recently that if I want to know God more I need to study Jesus, I began listening to the four gospels in the New Testament. I want to know God more. Listening one Sunday morning as I got ready for church, Matthew was the book playing. It was in chapter 14, and a story I've heard all my life began to play. You've probably heard it too. The one about Jesus feeding 5,000 people with only 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. It was a miracle. Only God can do a miracle. The end of the story was a miracle within itself. Not only did God feed 5,000 people, but he also had 12 basketfuls of leftovers. My Mammaw Smith would be ecstatic to have so many leftovers. It would be enough to feed her family for a week, or maybe two, depending upon the size of the basket. 

As I listened to the end of the story, and heard for the umpteenth time about the 12 basketfuls, the mention of the baskets caught my attention. What happened to the baskets? For several years my mom and I had spent time dealing, and selling, various items in flea market booths. We had bought out an antique store, bought items at auctions, and bought items at garage sales. Most items we bought were priced way below what their value was. We were able to sell the items in our flea market booth, and make a profit. It wasn't a big money maker, but it was a big memory maker. Many items made their way into our own collections. We saw various types of antiques. A lot of good memories were made, and we developed a greater appreciation for good antiques. 

Back to the miracle of the 12 basketfuls for leftovers. I wonder what happened to the 12 baskets? Where could they be? Could they be in someone's basket collection? Could they be in someone's attic collecting dust, and cob webs? What were they made of? Could they survive this many centuries?Have they been sold at an auction? Could they be sitting in a flea market somewhere? Are they at someone's home, and the person not know what they have? Wouldn't it be great to discover one of these baskets? You know, I would love to have one of those baskets. A basket used for leftovers. A basket that held a miracle.

Filthy and Nasty

My first experience at staying in a roach motel was shortly after I'd gotten married. A roach motel is one in an undesirable area of town, low priced, and in a state of disrepair. At this motel I slept with my socks on, I took a shower with my socks on, and I slept in the chair. Needless to say, it was a long night.

Recently my youngest son and I helped my daughter move. We'd driven into the night to get to the city she was moving. We were going to stay in a hotel she had stayed before. We arrived late, and the hotel was already booked. Making a phone call my daughter found a hotel just down the street with only one vacancy. We quickly made our way to the hotel, and got the room. It was past midnight. We were exhausted. The dimly lit parking lot caused a little concern when we had to leave an uncovered trailer full of furniture in it. The dimly lit parking lot should have been a warning to what we would find when we opened the door. While this hotel was not in an undesirable area of town, nor did I consider it low priced, it fit the 'roach motel' description by it's state of disrepair alone. There was sign at the front desk stating the property was a smoke free environment. Evidently some of the previous occupants didn't see the sign, for the smell of smoke was heavy in the room. Entering further into the room I couldn't help but do a deeper inspection. I have a habit of keeping my reading glasses on top of my head. I can't tell you how many times I pulled them down to inspect our room. I had to make sure the filth I was seeing was actually as bad as it looked. Everywhere I turned there seemed to be filth. Nastiness seemed to fill every corner top to bottom, and wall to wall. The nasty room was almost bad enough to make me go back outside and sleep in the truck. Did we really want to stay here? Could we get any rest, and be ready to work the next day? What about my grandson, would he be traumatized?

Filthy and torn curtain.

Nasty carpet stains.

Nasty carpet stains.

Filthy lamp shade.

Dented lamp shade.

Nasty and torn window shade.

Filthy kleenex holder.

Wrong size mattress.

Broken soap.

We did stay there. We did get much needed rest (2:30 am -6 am). My grandson was not traumatized. The next morning we unpacked the two trailers full of household furniture, and personal items. When we finished, my son and I headed home. On the journey back home, the filth in the hotel kept coming to mind. I realized my heart can be a lot like that 'roach motel'. The filthiness and nastiness occupying my heart, in the form of sin, makes me question why God would be willing to occupy it. If God did wear glasses, which he doesn't by the way, I'm sure he would have to keep on, and keep on, and keep on, pulling them down to see if my heart was really as bad as it looked. Upon further inspection, his conclusion would be 'yes it is'. As He looks,  filth and nastiness probably seems to fill every corner of my heart from top to bottom, and side to side. A temper, a sharp tongue, bitterness, negativity, and procrastination are some of the filthy traits that show up uninvited in my heart on occasion. The nastiness would probably make any occupant want to leave, vacate, and find a different heart to occupy. Could he find a place to rest in us, and prepare us to do His work? Will He be traumatized by my filth and nastiness?

He will never leave or vacate:
Deuteronomy 31:8  - The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 - Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
Ephesians 1:13b-14 - When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession - to the praise of his glory.

He can find a place to rest in us, and prepare us to do His work:
Romans 10:9-10 - If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 
Titus 3:5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior.
1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Hebrews 13:20 - Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.
1 Corinthians 12:8-11 - To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

He's not traumatized by my filth and nastiness (for we all have our own flavor of sin):
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Hebrews 4:15-16 - For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are -- yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
1 John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Are you from Africa?

Twice a year my husband travels to Africa. In 2010 he began a mission named 'Water for Christ'.  The mission provides fresh water to churches, orphanages, and schools in Ghana, West Africa. It's goal is to provide clean drinking water for the body, and present the gospel of Christ as living water for the soul. Wells are drilled at sites determined by the Baptist Missionary Association of Africa. Plans are being made to expand Water for Christ to other countries, as funding and opportunities are available. Our grandson has been exposed to many photos, videos, and memorabilia from Ghana. He lives in a predominantly white town, county, and state. Black people are seen frequently at town and school, but the majority of the population is white. 

Recently we were in Dallas, TX for a youth conference, called SOAR, promoting Water for Christ. We had a free day, and decided to do some site seeing. We read about the Perot Museum of Nature and Science on-line, and decided to visit. It was going to be a warm day. We arrived just before lunch, and decided to eat at the museum cafe before going in. Finishing our chicken strips, french fries, and macaroni and cheese, we headed inside to the museum.

We'd been in the museum for probably an hour when we saw an exhibit our grandson wanted to try. There was a large screen containing an outdoor scene, a marked place on the carpet for a participant to stand, and an eagle on the screen. The participant while standing on the marked place on the carpet could flap their arms, tilt their arms, lift their chin, and other such actions. As a person moved, the eagle on the screen would mimic the movements while soaring thru the trees and up into the sky. There was a line of about 15 children waiting to take their turn. Our grandson and I took our place in line to wait.

There were several schools and daycares attending the museum. We were in line with one of the groups. They had matching blue shirts on, which surely helped the teachers keep up with their little flock of children. The group was racially mixed, with black and white children. There was a black boy waiting in line behind us. The boy behind us was about the same age as our grandson. He was energetic, and couldn't hardly wait his turn. He and our grandson had a good time visiting, while waiting their turn. At one point our grandson turned to the boy and asked 'Are you from Africa?'. I'm certain the photos, videos, and memorabilia our grandson had frequently seen with Water for Christ prompted his question. I didn't hear what the boy said, but I feel pretty certain he said 'no'.  The two boys continued entertaining themselves with talking and wiggling. My husband has similar experiences in Ghana. As a white man in a predominantly black country, he stands out. Children gather around the members of the Water for Christ team to see him up close. Most of the children in remote villages have never seen a white person. The children want to reach out and touch his skin. It's a novelty and fascination to the villages when white people come. 

Through the eyes of a child we can see our own reflection. In our grandson's eyes it made perfect sense for the black boy to be from Africa, after all he had dark skin as the other children in the photos and videos from Ghana. In his innocents he was inquisitive about where the boy was from. Being only 6 years old, he didn't understand everything there is to know about geography. He didn't fully grasp where Africa was, or why there were so many black people in Africa, or why there weren't many black people living near him. After asking the question, both boys continued being who they were, just two boys waiting to enjoy a few seconds of fun.

What do we see when we meet someone different than us? Do we draw conclusions based on what external features they have? Do we draw conclusions because on what they are wearing, or not wearing? Do we draw conclusions based upon photos and videos we have seen, or conversations we've heard? Do we look around and wonder why they look different than us? Do we enjoy visiting with those who are different while waiting our turn at life? Are we inquisitive and ask questions? Does our inquisitiveness help us understand why the other person might be different than us? Can our inquisitiveness keep our innocence open to understanding those around us? Once we find out about the other person can we continue to entertain ourselves with talking and giggling, while waiting our turn? Can we be ok if we don't understand all there is to know about a person, and show love anyway? Are we ok if sometimes we cannot fully grasp why someone is different, or why so many people are different, or why not many of the different people live around us? After being inquisitive, can we continue being who we are, just two people on different paths waiting to enjoy a few seconds of fun for the day?

One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him. “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:28-31 NIV

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2 NIV

Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:1-2 NIV

Read more about the mission at:  https://www.facebook.com/waterforchrist/

Grace x 2

Where would 'Grace x 2' come from?

An earlier blog was about an unexpected surprise that showed up in our pasture. My neglect of not checking on a new momma cow caused much embarrassment when it was finally learned she had twins. I felt like I'd let her down, and not done my part to make sure she had been taken care. Feeling blessed beyond what I deserved, I gave the name 'Grace' to the smallest calf. At the time she seemed weak, and her mom didn't seem to be taking care of her. Grace was taken to the barn and became a bottle calf. To update on Grace; After a few days of giving her added nourishment I reintroduced her to her mom. Grace is a fighter,  and chased her mom down to nurse. It seemed to work, and Grace looked like she was getting fed. I hoped the extra days of added milk would give Grace the added boost she needed, and could continue with her mom's milk. 

Preparing for the sell of the farm our son agreed to let us put our cows with his herd. Getting the cows up, it looked like Grace needed more groceries once again. Her stomach was bloated, and again she didn't look as healthy as her brother. I kept Grace separate instead of moving her with the cows. I figured Grace would need bottle fed again. This time I figured it would be permanent arrangement, and Grace would be bottle fed until she could transition to calf feed. Our youngest son recently had a friend who'd been successful in a technique, and he mentioned it to me. We agreed to let him give it a try. He thought it would work for Grace. Our son had a cow who'd given birth just a few days earlier. The cow had an enormous amount of milk, much more than Grace's mom. Our son hobbled his cow, so she could not kick Grace away. The cow, her calf, and Grace were put into a pen together for a few days. Have I mentioned Grace is a fighter? Grace's persistency with the cow soon worked into forming a bond with a new momma for Grace. After a week it appeared Grace's tummy was less bloated. The additional milk seemed to be improving Grace's appearance. It had worked! Grace is currently still nursing from her adopted momma. We will probably leave Grace with her new momma, until she is large enough to be weaned and put on feed. At the time of Grace's discovery, and even now, I felt blessed to have twins. She was completely unexpected and undeserved. That's an update on Grace. God was good to give us Grace.

Now for Grace x 2. We moved the cows from a pasture behind our house to a pasture in front of our house. We moved them a few weeks in advance of actually moving them away from the farm. Moving the cows closer to our working pens made it easier on the cows and calves once the decision was made to move them. Shortly after they were moved, I noticed one cow still in the pasture behind our house. I hadn't counted the cows when I moved them. When I saw her, I figured she had a calf hid out, and had stayed behind with it. Being the terrible farmer I am, I didn't give it much thought. I figured she would eventually come thru the gate with her calf, and go to the other cows. Our cows knew the routine of moving between pastures, and how to get there. All gates were left open for her. I wasn't concerned about her leaving or wondering off. My only concern was our Pyrenees. If they decided to bark at her for being out of the pasture, it might aggravate her. They would do no harm, but with a new baby she didn't need bothered. I felt she knew the way, so she was left to fend for herself in getting back with the herd.  

It had been a few days since I saw the cow standing alone in the pasture. I was leaving our house heading to the title company to sign papers to sell our house. Pulling away from the house looking down the driveway, I saw a cow. She was standing next to the pasture where the other cows were. I figured the cow had finally made it out of the pasture. As I got closer, my eyes did a double take. There was 2 calves standing beside the cow. WHAT? TWO? Could it be? I told myself, 'no I don't see how it can be'. I took a few pics with my cell phone. It was a drizzly day, and I was dressed for a closing. There was no time to ponder and study over the cow and 2 calves. I quickly opened the gate, got behind the cow and calves, and put them in the pasture. Earlier I heard another momma in the pasture bawling. She was acting as if she were looking for a calf. I thought perhaps the extra calf belonged to her. I questioned if we could indeed have another set of twins. I teared up at the thought of being blessed with a second sets of twins, and on this day which we were selling our house. The first set of twins was an emotional rush of gratitude, but two sets of twins? It's hard to explain what I was feeling. I was giggly, teary, happy, humbled, and more. I didn't have time to investigate at the time because I was going to be late to the closing. I could hardly believe it, and questioned if it could actually be real. Part of me wanted to justify it, and say perhaps one of the calves belonged to  the other bawling momma in the pasture, and had gotten out. Another part of me wanted to shout for joy at the prospect of having a second set of twins. You see, we only have 11 cows. What's the probability of having 2 sets of twins, in the same year, in a small herd of only 11 cows? 

I went on to the closing not sure what to think. At the closing I told the buyer I 'thought' we had another set of twins. In my mind I tried to rationalize the other calf as belonging to one of the other mommas. That made more sense than actually having a second set of twins. If the land we were selling produced twins, the buyer was getting a heck of a deal! 

For a few days I questioned the second set of twins. I drove thru the pasture a couple times trying to locate the 'mysterious twins', but didn't have any luck. I could locate one calf that looked like it fit the description and belonged to that momma, but I never could locate a second calf. It was June, and the grass was tall because it had not been cut for hay yet. I was afraid to drive around too much, and run over a calf that had been hidden by it's mom. My schedule was hectic and any available time to look for a mysterious twin was small, so I had to let it be. I figured it would show up eventually, or not. 

As time got closer to moving the cattle I continued to watch for the 'mysterious twins'. Several days in a row, as I counted calves, the number of calves in the pasture confirmed my suspicions. There definitely was a extra calf in the pasture. I could pair up every single calf with it's mother, all except one. There had to be another set of twins. When we got the cattle up to move them, my confidence was solidified. The momma of the twins had a large white udder. Both calves had a white spot on their belly confirming they were twins belonging to this momma. The momma had plenty of milk, and was taking care of both calves.  

The calves were so beautiful. What a joy! What a blessing! How good can God be? For me, this was all I needed. This was a second dose of Grace. It was 'Grace x 2'. We didn't name one of these calves 'Grace', but I was reminded of God's grace in our lives. The calves served as a sign. God is full of unexpected surprises for us. God can bless us more than we can imagine. 

I think I always want to be a terrible farmer. See what happens when you don't check on your cows? LOL! God takes care of us when we don't take care of ourselves. The only reason I can think of why God would do this, is because He can. I don't recommend being so neglectful of your cows. Maybe God needed to show me He's there. He cares. He blesses. He provides. His ways are better than my ways.

Just one more time

Printed photographs seem to make time stand still. Call me old school, but a printed photo is far more desirable than a digital photo. A photo on paper, to me, is more alive than a photo on a computer. Printed photographs are like holding a piece of history in your hand. Our history is but a fleeting moment in time. Photographs capture that moment. Mostly photos are only significant when we know someone in it, or have a personal experience related to the photo.

I had the privilege of packing away some old photos recently. Memories and emotions swirled around in my head, and in my heart. Some caused a tear. Some created a smile. Some caused reflection. Some made pride well up within me. I shared some of the photos as I came across them. Using my iPhone, I made digital copies, and sent the copies to various people via text message. The responses I received back were almost identical to my response when I picked up each photo. There were tears, smiles, reflection and pride from various people. Reflecting on the photos as they were packed, I couldn't help but wish for 'Just one more time'.

'One more time' to wash the mud off little hands.

'One more time' see my old horse 'Boss' sitting under my child.

'One more time' to see my grandparents pose for the camera.

'One more time' to see papaw grinning and singing.

'One more time' to appreciate the accomplishment of 25th anniversary.

'One more time' to wash away the war paint after a birthday party.

'One more time' to pet ol' Bear.

'One more time' to have my picture made with my hero 'mamaw'.

The time spent sitting in the floor packing the old photos was rewarding. There were so many 'Just one more time' moments I lost count. Don't you have some 'Just one more time' memories? If we could recapture and bottle them we would roll around in them everyday. Looking at my blessings packed into boxes, I felt rewarded. The journey's I'd been a part of was satisfying. There are many moments I could wish to have back, however the past is the past. I can only look forward to what lies ahead. Make today what I can. Make tomorrow what I can. Press forward and continue on. New memories are on the horizon. If my iPhone camera continues to work, and Wal-Mart will continue to develop, I'll have new photos to add to the thousands in my library.

Power

God is 

All Powerful, 

if there is a weakness in my relationship with Him, it is me. Sin makes me weak,  and can hinder God's blessing of power to me. When I remove my sin, God can bless me fully with His power.

Bro. Freddie Mark Wilcox - Lifesong Baptist Church, Greenbrier, AR

When I first posted this blog, below is how it was published. I had texted, and received confirmation what I had written was correct. A couple hours later I received another text, after I had published the blog. I found out Bro. Freddie Mark was at a graduation when he received my text, and answered too quickly. He sent me a corrected version, and it is written above. Wanting to make sure I'd quoted him correctly, I felt it necessary to correct the blog. My shorthand did not do so well, as you can see. I think I got the point, but wanted to be clear in presenting what he was saying. While he used the words we, us, and our, I felt it necessary to change it to me, my, and I. The need to apply this first to myself came as I sat on the pew. 

I'll leave both quotes (correct and incorrect). Sitting in church the point stirred me, and I wanted to share it. 

God is 

All Powerful, 

if there are hinderances 

that prevent Him 

from His work 

it is my weakness 

in my sins.

Paraphrase by: R Tyler

(I felt it necessary to include both versions for anyone who might revisit the sight and notice the change.)

Precepts

New York City was a place my mom, my sister, my daughter, and myself had never been. Selling a horse in the spring of 2015, I received part of the payment in airline points. There were enough points in the deal to purchase tickets for all four of us. We considered several options that were within our 'points' budget. After talking it over, we decided to visit New York City for the Christmas holiday season. As our time for departure drew near, several events occurred that made us delay our trip. We rescheduled the New York City trip for the following April.

At this time in our life it was hectic for all of us. We were being bombarded by a multitude of challenges. Just a couple days before we left, we had strong thoughts about cancelling the whole trip. However, things seemed to open up, and we proceeded with our travel plans. We left on an early morning flight, and arrived in New York City just before noon.  Coming into the city by plane we were able to see the skyline of this magnificent city first hand. We were awestruck by the towering buildings that seemed to stretch every direction into the horizon. Laguardia Airport was a small airport,  so finding our luggage and a taxi was a snap. After leaving the airport, it took about an hour to get to our hotel. Getting to the hotel, my daughter started talking about the long drive from the airport. She had followed our route on an app on her iPhone, and felt certain there were many routes that would have taken half the time. Considering taxis charge by the amount of time you occupy their car, we felt a little ripped off. To these country girls it felt like the Big Apple was saying 'Welcome, but beware'.

New York City was all we expected, and then some. The city is filled with magnificent structures, friendly people, historical sights, great food, street vendors enticing tourist to purchase their goods, a strong working class, massive shopping opportunities, a subway, security police, tourist, and an overwhelming sense of pride. What a great place to visit. The things we saw and experienced was like nothing I'd ever done before. I could tell you about the flood of emotions we felt as we visited the 9/11 Memorial Museum, about our early morning mile walk for my sister so we could eat a genuine NYC bagel, or our apprehension riding the subway for the first time, or about the view from the Empire State Building, or I could tell you about our pride when we saw the Statue of Liberty. It would be difficult to describe everything we did, and my words would somehow seem inadequate. I'd encourage anyone who gets the opportunity to go see this great city for themselves.

On the first night, we visited Times Square. It was there my eyes were opened, and my heart was broken. We were making our way through the crowds, all sticking very close together. The flow of people swerved to the side, and we followed. Getting a view of why the foot traffic veered, was an unexpected sight. Up against the wall of the building was a man doubled over on the sidewalk. There was no obvious movement. No one slowed down enough to notice if he needed help. Being from a small town, homeless people seemed to only exist in a different world. We know they exist, but mostly from what we hear in the news. Rarely do we have direct contact with the homeless. I feel the sheltered life I live, keeps me from acknowledging what life truly is for some people. What happened in this man's life to bring him to this? Where did things go wrong? Why did his hope fade? Does he have a family? Answers to these questions, for each person living on the streets, would generate a multitude of answers. I realize the homeless and poverty population in New York City exist not only here, but globally. It was this visit to NYC my heart was touched, and I was felt compelled to ask 'why'? Perhaps because of the grandness of the city, I wasn't expecting to be faced with vast differences of status all occupying the same sidewalk.

I have a warm, soft bed to sleep in every night. My pantry is full of a variety of food. I have plenty of ways to fix a hot meal. I turn my faucet on and receive an enormous amounts of hot water. I receive love and affection from my family. My closets contain summer and winter clothes, with a variety of shoes for each season. This description of my abundance applies to most all my neighbors, friends, and family. Walking down the sidewalk in NYC, I came face to face with the stark difference between my home life and his lack of. There was a need to do a heart check. Where was my heart in the feelings going on inside me? Why did my heart sink when I saw him? Why did I feel the need to reach out? He is someone's son. He could be my son. He is someone's friend. He could be my friend. He could be someone's husband. He could be my husband. He could be someone’s dad. He could be my dad. He could be someone’s brother. He could be my brother. 

My knowledge and experience with homelessness is minimal. My knowledge of government policy for the homeless is minimal as well. My knowledge of social organizations role in helping with the homeless is minimal. I mention these because, as some people read this they may wonder why I think I can approach a subject many thousands of people have already attempted to resolve. My thoughts about helping a person  in need is strictly an encouragement of very ancient precepts. I don't consider myself an expert or someone who will successfully apply the precepts every time. My heart jumped when I saw the homeless man, and my mind wondered 'why'. I couldn't answer the 'why' in my mind, but I knew 'what' I should do. 

There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.
Deuteronomy 15:11

Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.  
Matthew 5:42

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.' 
Matthew 25:35-40. 

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you fulfill the law of Christ. 
Galatians 6:2

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 
Romans 15:1

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. 
Hebrews 13:16

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.  
Philippians 2:3-4

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. 
Proverbs 19:17

Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. 
Hebrews 13:2

The generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. 
Proverbs 11:25

While in NYC I gave to the homeless. I won't tell what I gave, but I gave. It wasn't enough to move anyone out of poverty, but it made a difference for a few people on that day. My encouragement is to anyone who reads this. This is not a policy written to which only lawyers can understand. An actuary is not needed to measure the impact it makes. This is only an encouragement  for us to make a difference where we are. That simple. If an opportunity presents itself, and you can, give. If you have an extra jacket at home, take the one off your back and give. If you've prepared an extra amount of food for dinner, give to the widow next door. If you know of a food pantry in your area, give. If you find an extra pair of shoes in your closet, give. If you're walking thru Time's Square and you have to veer to the side to keep from stepping on a homeless man, give. Give as you feel in your heart to give. Give with an open heart. The question of 'why' they are homeless probably will not be answered. If each of us give perhaps there will be fewer times we have to ask 'why'. 


per the: Coalitionforthehomeless.org

Can homelessness be solved?

It doesn’t have to be this way. With a few sensible policies, we can see an end to modern homelessness.

Policies by governments have their place. I do not dispute that. However, ancient precepts lead me to believe you and I have a personal calling to look out for the well being of our brother, father, child, mother, husband, wife, sister, friend, and neighbor. 

Grace

Surprises, and blessings, come in a multitude of packages. 

Early spring on the farm I went to feed our cows. I'd noticed one cow was getting close to calving. One morning she was not with the rest of the cows, as they came to eat. After pouring the feed in the troughs, I drove our kubota ATV through the pasture to look for her. Skimming the edges of the pasture, and the edges of the tree line, I came up empty. She must've gone into the woods. With my muck boots on I parked the kubota, and started making a path thru the woods. This part of the farm was low, and was still holding water from the previous rain. The area was sticky with brown mud. Another heavy rain was expected later that day, and would only worsen the wet ground. We had done some clearing in these woods a few years earlier. The result of the clearing was a lot of undergrowth, briers and bushes. The briers were thick. There was enough opening between each brier patch, and I was able to push on through. The long arms of the briers crossing each opening tore away at my clothes. I'd already dressed for bible study, but finding the cow was a priority. Time was short. I needed to leave the house in about 30 minutes. Changing clothes would need to be done after I had found the cow, and gone back to the house. I tried to zig-zag across the patch of trees, hoping not to miss the cow if she was lying down. Walking for a little bit I found her. She was about dead center of the woods on a little high spot. I could see after birth hanging out of her, and she was standing. Knowing the area around her was wet, muddy, and full of briers, I didn't want to disturb her. I got close enough to know she was ok, and left to let her tend to the newborn. My plans were to check on her later, when I got back from bible study. 

It rained like the weather man said. It rained hard. After bible study there were a few errands, and a grandson to pick up. Getting back to the farm, our grandson wanted to drive the kubota in the pouring rain. He drove the kubota splashing in the mud puddles for about an hour. I guess you could say I took my lazy pill that day, because going to check on the cow got put aside. The kubota had a hydrostatic transmission, and it's lack of power makes it frustrating to drive in mud. Our grandson didn't have any boots at our house. The thought of getting stuck, and carrying a 50 pound boy half a mile, didn't interest me. I put off checking on the cow. 

I fed the next morning. Driving around the woods, I looked for the cow with some feed for her. I called, but she didn't come out. I guess I took a lazy pill again today, because getting out in the muddier woods and briers didn't appeal to me. She looked ok when I last saw her, and felt she was still ok. The cow was one raised on the farm. Her dad was known for low birth weight calves, and I felt the trait had been passed down to his offspring. I didn't feel there was a need to worry about the cow or calf. There hadn't been any trouble calving with any of the cows. I left. 

The next morning I didn't make it out to feed, and never went to check on the cow. There seemed to be a trend in taking a lazy pills, because it seemed to happen again. It was spring, and grass was shooting up. The urgency to feed everyday wasn't as strong as it had been a month before. I got busy, and never made it out to the pasture. 

On the third morning I went to feed. Once again I brought some extra feed for the new mother. I was prepared if she hadn't come back to the other cows yet. After pouring the feed in the trough for the rest of the herd, I looked down toward the woods. I could see a black cow walking. It had to be her. I drove the kubota her way. Getting closer I was anxious about seeing the new baby. There's not much prettier than a newborn calf, except a newborn foal, and of course my newborn children. Looking toward the mother's feet I saw a little black baby. Driving a little closer, I noticed another little black baby. I had to do a double take. What? Is this right? Had the mother I'd neglected the past couple days given me twins? My eyes filled with tears. What an unexpected blessing. It was a double portion. Nine months ago these calves began to grow in their mother. Nine months ago, God started this blessing knowing I needed a reminder. Today I was reminded, God is at work even when we sometimes take a lazy pill. God is good. I felt unworthy to receive such a blessed day.

The cow seemed to be taking care of both calves. She kept running from one calf to the other calf nuzzling them. She was waiting on both calves, and looking after both of them. I was happy. It's best if a baby can stay with it's mother.  One calf was evidently smaller and weaker than the other, but still seemed to be keeping up. Later in the day I talked to a neighbor about one calf being weaker, and decided I'd better keep a close eye on it. Mid-afternoon I went to check on the calf. The mom was trying to keep an eye on both calves, but the smallest kept falling behind. I never saw it nurse, and the mother had walked away with the other calf. The smaller calf lay down in the grass to rest. 

Later in the afternoon, Tim and our son went with me to check on the calf. I was a little encouraged knowing we found the calf with the herd. However, The calf was unattended, and by itself. We have a friend whose son milks cows and sells fresh milk. We had some fresh cows milk in our refrigerator, and carried it with us to give the calf a little more nourishment. She was a tiny thing, maybe 30 pounds. She wouldn't suck, so we slowly poured about a pint of milk into her mouth making sure she was swallowing. Telling Tim about the mother walking away earlier, he thought it would be best to bring the baby to the barn. He didn't think she was strong enough to keep up with her mother. Her mom was watching us, but stayed a good distance away with her other calf. We loaded the calf into the back of the kubota, and headed for the barn. The mother never tried to follow us.

Getting her to the barn we settled her into a stall. The barn was designed for horses, but this little girl fit right in. She became our bottle fed orphan. Our grandson usually gets the privilege of naming our animals, however this time I decided to choose the name. She would be called 'Grace'. Sometimes blessings from God come in unexpected packages. 

Have you taken a lazy pill, and received a blessing anyway? Isn't God good?

Grace is on the left in this picture, following her mother and twin.

Grace in the stall