The Coffee Break

"When the Smoke Clears"

2011-12-21T03:18:00.000-08:00

I got up early one cold morning this week and began to stir about the house. My first remedy is putting together a warm pot of delicious Columbian coffee. You just can't beat coffee in the mornings. I get out my grinder (a necessity for any serious coffee drinker) and transform my whole beans into grounds. After the pot of coffee is made, I get a cup topped off by a small bit of whipped light cream. The aroma is great, but the coffee is "just right."

My second process on this cold morning was to build a fire in our fireplace. I got it started like I've done thousands of times before. This time some smoke found it's way into the house. I opened a few windows but somehow the smoke made a quick trip upstairs and the smoke alarm connected to our alarm system went off. That was the first time I had ever heard that alarm go off. Both Wilda and Rebecca woke up to the alarm which gives the alarm great credibility. Soon all was well and we were enjoying a great morning with coffee in hand and a great fire to warm us up.

One of my neighbors is a retired Fire Captain from the City of Atlanta. He has so many rich stories about fire experiences as you might imagine. We were chatting about my early morning experiences and he said something rather amazing to me. He said in all of his many years with the fire department and serving as a Captain, he had never in all that time ever witnessed a fatality with a residential fire that had an active smoke alarm with a good battery. Here is a guy that rolled out of the fire department every single day responding to multiple calls every day he worked. For an inexpensive tool like a "smoke alarm" that can save the life of a person or family, why wouldn't we have that in all of our homes. Recently, I heard Fire Chief Steve Morgan of the McDonough Fire Department say that the smoke alarm is the single most important item to protect lives from fires. He said, "put them everywhere." The value of a smoke alarm cannot be under-estimated.

"When the Smoke Clears" in our lives, maybe we need to think about some basic and simple things we can do to protect ourselves and those around us. The beginning of a new year is a great day to think about what is really important and some good choices we can make so that 2012 will be a great year for all of us.

Do you ever feel stretched to your limits?

2011-11-30T01:31:00.001-08:00

Have you ever felt "stretched" to your limits? Something unusual and different has been happening to me during these days. The doctor diagnosed my lower back pain as a "herniated disk." I have been receiving physical therapy for this and the therapy has involved quite a few new activities. One of the most interesting parts of therapy has been the therapist putting me into "traction." This giant structure stretches me from one end to the other. Hopefully, it will be a good part of the process that brings about healing.

While on the traction machine, I began to think about ways we are stretched today. Sometimes, we are stretched financially, emotionally, psychologically, and even spiritually. This is usually an exhausting experience and we want to move to a place of stability & wholeness. Stretching can be a good thing! What would happen if husbands and wives stretched out more and more with arms of understanding, love, and hope? Maybe stretching out gives other people the benefit of a doubt.

Try "stretching out" today with a new love that can empower our lives!

"Just One"

2011-10-26T05:09:00.000-07:00

I went to the Olive Garden restaurant the other day to experience one of my favorite choices for lunch, "Zuppa Toscana." It's a great little soup and it warms the day. When I entered the restaurant recently, the hostess gave her familiar greeting: "How many?" My response was "one." The hostess then said, "Only One?" I've heard that before in other places but I got to thinking about the words from the hostess that seem to echo in my ears - "Just One!!"

Those words seem to suggest that "one person" coming to lunch is fairly insignificant or inferior to the restaurant. I began asking myself, "What's so bad about one?" Every single person is important. My son used to work as a waiter in restaurants and I would hear the stories he would tell about that experience. Waiters and Waitresses need good tips and the larger the crowd would suggest the higher the possibility for all of that. I understand from others who have been servers in restaurants that this is not always true.

Jesus had a powerful relationship with those who were alone and not connected. So many examples in the Bible point to this fact. I could never imagine in my mind, Jesus looking out and saying "only one?" I believe that he would see "one" as vital, important, and significant to him. To Jesus every person is important and loved!

In a world that aims for the masses and establishes trends based on the popular opinion of the majority, it's refreshing to take a few minutes over coffee to remember that 'Just One" is very important. Don't miss that "one" person who may need an ear, a shoulder, a hug, or a prayer. Remember that you are important today!!

A New Day!

2010-12-22T06:37:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite TV commercials shows a mom and her two children pulling into the drive-through window and she proceeds to order her breakfast items at McDonalds. The only problem is that she is in the drive through to her bank and not at McDonalds. The kids have a great laugh at mom and end with the slogan, "Don't you just love mornings!"

I can remember a day many, many years ago when my mom pulled into the drive-through window at McDonalds, paid for her meal, and drove away. The only problem was that she forgot to wait and get the meal she just paid for. Don't you just love crazy experiences that you can laugh about?

Have you ever started out on a new destination only to realize some time later that your mind was in auto-pilot and you were headed to a familiar place instead of the new destination? It has happened to me. There is something exciting about starting a new destination and going to a new place. There is new opportunity to learn new things and to explore a world you have not yet had the chance to see.

We are facing a brand new year and I'm pretty excited about it! I am ready for new experiences and a new start! What about you?

"Can my day get any Crazier?"

2010-02-01T22:38:00.000-08:00

Recently, I found myself in a familiar place. It was the drive through window of the lending institution where my home mortgage is housed. I had rushed over to the bank after spending most of the prime time of my morning in the dental chair getting my teeth cleaned. Have you noticed how the dentist always does the extra stuff when you are in a hurry? They said I needed X-Rays because mine had gotten out of date. It just seems like everytime I turn around, somebody wants to do an X-Ray. I allowed them to do their thing, but every minute I sat in the dental chair, I was thinking of something else I needed to be doing. I rushed off after the dentist to pay my house payment. Just when I felt like my day was going crazy, something new and different comes before our eyes.

I watched as the people to my right went through the drive through lane. They took out the plastic container and sent their banking items through the suction device over to the bank. I can only remember the day that I was in such a lane and something strange happened to me. The plastic container didn't get enough suction and got stuck somewhere between the drive through and the banking window. What do you do? It was a new one for the bank as well. They assured me they would deal with it and we would talk later. That was a nervous answer, but what do you do? Meanwhile, back at the drive through watching the people next to me, they make a big mistake. When getting the plastic container out of the slot and getting their banking papers out of the container, they dropped the container out of the vehicle and it went rolling all underneath their vehicle. The driver couldn't get out because they were stuck. They had too much breakfast and couldn't fit out the door. The passenger gets out and starts going underneath the car in search of the missing plastic container. It's interesting to note the crazy stuff that goes on with other people as well as the daily complications we face.

I remember watching someone entering the car wash a few years ago, who wanted to take the radio antenna off his car. The only problem was he waited until he was in the middle of the wash to roll down his window, get out of the car, and then get totally soaked. This man got a bath that day along with his car. I don't think the car wash charged extra!!

It's the crazy things in life that add some spice to our day. Life is always full of new and different stuff. We can get overwhelmed or just celebrate a crazy day that God has allowed us to live. We can share our craziness in life and laugh together!

"The Big Picture"

2009-12-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

I've always been amazed at peple who can put together puzzles that have 500 or 600 pieces to them. Where do you start? For me, it seems like an overwhelming and unending task. Looking for puzzle parts seems like looking for a needle in a hay stack. I'm amazed at amateur astronomers who look into the sky to pinpoint hundreds of stars. They look into the sky and see something very different from what I do. They look at all the little parts to find the big picture.

I seem to observe other people who spend their lives looking at the small pieces of life, but somehow they are never able to look at the "big picture." In our faith, we are always examining the smaller particles of life as we ponder what's coming next. We must be very careful that we don't miss the bigger picture of life and faith. The big picture is one of a God who cares and loves us. The big picture is that the small particles of our lives need to reflect what's really important. We must ask "Why are we here?" and "What it it that God would want us to do next?"

It's questions worth asking as we begin a new year full of hope and big possiblities. Don't miss the big picture!

"Tigers and Party Crashers"

2009-12-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

It is interesting that the two stories that seem to dominate the airwaves every time we turn on the television has to do with (1) Party Crashers, and (2) a golfer named Tiger. Out of all the possible stories and places where airtime is possible, it is just fascinating to me that these two situations have gripped our attention.

Meet Michaele and Tareq Salahi! This lovely blond haired lady wearing a beautiful red dress enters a party at the White House escorted by her husband wearing a black tuxedo. While stories seem to be in conflict, the White House says that this couple did not have a ticket and got through security checkpoints without an invitation. Two things come to my mind:

(1) Security is always on our minds and it is unthinkable that someone could get up close to the President of the United States without the scrutiny of the secret service. I just can't imagine this happening. Neither can the members of the secret service who no doubt privately have faces as red as her dress with embarrassment.

(2) A second thought that comes to mind is that while people are criticizing this couple from all across the country, this couple did something and went somewhere that most of us would just love to go. As we put our little Christmas decorations up and find a budget tree at the local store, wouldn't it be thrilling to walk through the White House and see how in best of the best in the area of interior design do their thing at the home of the President of the United States. We've all heard the expression, "I'd like to be a fly on the wall!" We may wonder about the Salahi family, but one thing is for sure: They went somewhere that we would like to be!
I just can't imagine such an Evening!

The other story is about Tiger Woods who is without a doubt one of the best golfers to ever play the game. This guy is literally dominating in his game and everybody who plays golf wants a little "tiger in their tank!" Tiger left his house at 2:30 a.m. and ran over a fire hydrant and hit a tree. His wife came out of the house using the first thing she could find which is a golf club and gets him out of the car. It was a one car accident in front of his house, but people all over the country talk about criminal charges and how police should search his house and how this situation can be resolved. All this excitement over somebody who runs into a fire hydrant in the middle of the night. Don't worry: Tiger can afford the fire hydrant! In fact, he could buy the whole fire station. If the truth were to be told - we are just fascinated by a golfer named "Tiger."

I realize that news stories may be slow these days and we search for something interesting to watch. There is health care debate, sending troops to Afghanistan, and the election of a new mayor in one of America's most thriving cities. But, if news really gets slow and we need another story to occupy our attention - I've got just the one for all of us. It's a story about God becoming flesh and coming from Heaven to Earth as a baby. It's a story of a birth and we can experience "the new birth!" It's a story about Angels, Shepherds, a Mother, and all sorts of people who experience something new! It's a story about us and how God loves us so much that he sends his only Son into the world. Here's a story worth talking about during these days.

"Say It Ain't so!"

2009-11-22T13:38:00.000-08:00

Say It ain't so! Tell me that on the eve of the celebration among Baptist Churches of the life and work of Lottie Moon, that the Georgia Baptist Convention didn't kick out one of our best known, mission minded, and Christ serving churches because they have a woman pastor! A few years ago, the First Baptist Church of Decatur was looking across our nation for a new pastor to lead their church as they moved forward proclaiming the gospel in the years ahead. Their search led them to call Rev. Julie Pennington-Russell as their new pastor.

Rev. Julie Pennington-Russell is an outstanding pastor. My wife, my daughter, and I have heard her on several occasions. We have witnessed the personal connection she has with her congregation. She is one of the best preachers that I've heard in Georgia and perhaps the nation. She brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and leadership to that historic church in Decatur, Georgia. That church is most fortunate to have Julie Pennington-Russell lead them during this challenging era.

Say it Ain't so! Have we forgotten the essence of Galatians 3:28 which declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, their is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." Have we given up on the precious Baptist distinction of the "autonomy of the local church?" Are we replacing autonomy with conformity - Say it ain't so! I am proud to serve alongside both male and female pastors all under a larger umbrella which is described as the "call of God."

Lottie Moon was a courageous, determined, commited lady who would not take no for an answer. In February, 1873, after hearing a sermon entitled: "Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest," she voluntered for missionary service. Her legacy is an outstanding one that stands as an example to everyone to go and share the good news of Christ. Lottie Moon spent her life as a missionary to China. Lottie Moon would face new challenges if she were alive today. It is doubtful that she could receive appointment from our Baptist body only because she is a woman.

I want young people today to know that God does call them for many places of service. If God should call them to be a pastor or a missionary, it is my hope that they will not be hindered by denominational politics or anything that would alter their service and devotion to follow God wherever that might lead. I'm proud of Lottie Moon, Julie Pennington-Russell and so many more who have given their lives to follow the "Will of God!"

"Staying Connected"

2009-10-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Some months ago, I was introduced to a young, energetic, outgoing, and personable businessman. He was serving as president of the McDonough Lions Club at the time. As I learned more about him, I learned that he was employed by Edward Jones. I must admit that I had never heard of Edward Jones before meeting my new friend. All of a sudden, I started seeing Edward Jones locations all over the place. As I traveled into a new city, there was an Edward Jones location. I started seeing television commercials for Edward Jones. This investment corporation was everywhere. In fact in 2009, this company was named by Fortune magazine on their list of the top 100 places to work. Interestingly enough, this company has been around a long, long time. They were created in the same year I was born which was 1955. How did I miss seeing this vibrant business located in so many places

My answer is that I never made any connection to this business until I met my new friend. It was through his identify and affiliation with this company that the words "Edward Jones" had any slice of meaning. When I drive through a city and see the words of this company, I think about my friend. Just maybe there is something important, significant, and worthwhile about making good connections.

I wonder how many people drive up and down Highway 138 going toward Stockbridge or Conyers. They pass right by Faith Baptist Church but what kind of connection do they make with this place of worship? If someone has a neighbor who attends this church, there is a connection and a relationship to build upon. If someone hears about someone who attends this church, a new connection is made. New connections are important if other people are going to find an entry point into a place that can enhance their faith and help them on their journey to know Jesus.

Connections are not only important as someone enters church, but we need to make connections if church is going to be something that can meet our needs and have staying power with us. Small groups like Sunday School can provide such a connection where relationship building can occur. Let us not minimize the vast importance of the connections we make.

Connections are important! You may be the only connection someone has to church or to faith in Christ this week! Don't take it lightly!

Do you ever feel burned out?

2009-07-01T08:17:00.001-07:00

Do you ever feel burned out? Are there times when you just don't feel like there is any gas in your tank? Is your energy level at an all time low and you just don't feel like doing much? If so, take heart, because you are not alone. We all face this kind of feeling at one time or another.

It was graduation night and celebrations took place all over the community. I was awakened at 2:00 in the wee hours of the morning to witness a car that was on fire in a neighboring community just behind our home. As I looked at the burning car, it was difficult in the darkness to realize all that was happening. Although it happened on graduation night, it might not have any connection to graduation. I looked at the situation more clearly as the light of day came over us. Here was a car burned from the inside out.

This car sat in the same location for days. What do you do with such a piece of junk? It looked so bad I'm not sure a junk dealer would want it. After a few days, this burned up car was hauled off somewhere and somebody needed some new transportation. It's time to count your losses, put the past behind, and start over again!

Have you ever wanted to start over and you just didn't know how to do it? Where do I start and how can I get a new beginning in my life. At times, we feel worn, discouraged, alone, and noboby seems to care. We search for new direction and news that someone really does care. Just maybe we can start one day at a time to rebuild our lives over again. Focus on today and give it your best. Try to find good things happening in your life and in the lives of those around you. Leave the past and cleave to a new day full of meaning and purpose.

The good news is that we are not alone! Our God has walked where we walk and understand our pain and our struggles. It is here that we can find comfort, strength, and help! This is just a thought for those days when we feel all burned out!

"When Community Comes Together"

2009-05-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

It was a busy day in May when a flurry of activity took place to put the final touches on the 32nd Annual Geranium Festival located at the historic square in McDonough, Georgia. Some were putting out directional signs while others directed early vendors and exhibitors getting setup around the square. This is a festive gathering sponsored by the McDonough Lions Club. The money raised goes to support local charity.

The morning was busy as people gathered from far and wide. There was an excitement about the Geranium Festival and seeing all the vendors. Geraniums were in full bloom and for sale. Strawberry ice cream was in great demand along with a host of other foods. You could get burgers, pizza, nachos, vegetables, and almost anything you could imagine. Over 400 vendors lined the streets around the McDonough Square with some of the most unique items you will ever see. The skies got dark and we feared that the rain would come, but fortunately the rain held off and it was a great day for such a gathering.

On such occasions, it's good to eat, shop, and browse the festivities. The greatest thing I observed that day was community coming together for a common good. They gathered for conversation and food, but there was a wonderful spirit that filled the festival. I've noticed that same feeling in such events like the Peachtree Road Race. Thousands and thousands of people are all focussed upon a common goal and enjoying the opportunity to be together.

We shouldn't take lightly positive times when we can come together and celebrate the great heritage and opportunities that are ours. Make the most of this day and every day. Make it count as you add blessings to the lives of someone you meet!

"Wow - I just can't believe it!"

2009-04-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

One of the most stirring moments I have seen recently came while watching the segment: "Britain's got talent!" It is the British version of American Idol as Simon and the judges witness those who are coming out of obscurity in hopes of making it big. It is their big moment and they must make the best of it. A large number of the contestants become the laugh of the audience as they think they have more talent than they actually do.

I watched as Susan Boyle took the stage. Here was a plain, 47 year old, unemployed woman who seemed un-impressive at first look. Nobody in the whole auditorium expected anything big or impressive as she came to sing. As she began to sing, there was something wonderful that happened in that place. She had an outstanding voice and everybody was just stunned. It was one of the "Wow" moments in life when you just couldn't believe what you were seeing. It was amazing. In the end, Simon told this woman that she could go back to her village with her head held high, because she got three votes of yes by the judges. It was a spectacular moment and one she will always remember. From unemployment, she has a very bright future ahead of her.

Just maybe we give up too quickly on other people around us. Have we written them off thinking that they have little or no potential? Have we treated others like they are undeserving of their chance? Thank goodness that our Lord didn't write us off. He came to give us hope that we didn't deserve and could not earn. Our future is bright because our God cares for us.

Just maybe this week, we might look for ways that we can care for others. Let's give them a break and who knows --- they might just "Wow" us through the powerful and wonderful gifts our Lord has given them.

"Big Time Renewal"

2009-03-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

There is something about the freshwinds of the spirit that moves us toward renewal and taking seriously the commitments of our lives. We need to spend some time and reflect on what is really important to us. Such times of evaluation and contemplation, can lead us to re-discover our own purpose in our lives.

I was amazed, refreshed, and uplifted by something I witnessed recently. Vince Skidmore, a former member of the greater Faith family in our church came to me one day asking if he and his wife could come back to Faith and use the facilities for the renewing of their Wedding vows. Vince and Darlene were married at Faith many, many years ago. Vince came with an enthusiasm and excitement. His level of excitement was virtually contagious! He had a date in mind, we looked at the date, and later added it to the church calendar. This was going to be such a special time as he and his wife would renew their Wedding vows in the same place of their marriage. Pastor Calhoun, former pastor of our church, would be coming back to perform the renewal ceremony. Everything was set except one important detail: Darlene didn't know anything about it. In their family, this would be the "secret" of the decade. He wanted this to be a wonderful, wonderful surprise and a great moment in their lives.

Vince checked back with us from time to time and had everything in place. He bought his wife a new dress and all the children were involved in the process. He rented a limo to come to their house on a Tuesday Evening and the limo stopped at our church. Darlene had no idea she was coming to our church and she certaintly had no idea about a renewal ceremony. It was a marvelous surprise! The church was full of family and friends. Everything was in place and every moment was planned. A reception was ready when the service ended in the church fellowship hall. The music began to play and the service began without a hitch. Vince had his guitar and even sang to his bride in the ceremony. They used the lighting of the unity candles to once again symbolize the commitment of their lives. Pastor Calhoun led them in a wonderful service of renewal and re-affirmation of their marriage vows together. After the reception, they left for supper in an Atlanta restaurant. What an Evening and what an experience!

I did not know the family very well and as I was present as a caretaker of the facilities. During the Evening, I was moved by such an act of compassion, love, and diligence. What a wonderful thing took place that Tuesday Evening.

These are days in Lent when even greater contemplation, renewal, and commitments can be made. Maybe it's time to re-evaluate why we do what we do. Maybe we can be led to prayer (talking with God) and ways to let God know just how important he is in our lives.
Get ready for renewal that can grip our lives and strengthen our relationships. There couldn't be a better time for renewal to come than right now!

"Shortcuts to Nowhere"

2009-03-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

It was a Monday Evening when all seemed calm and a Ladies Group at Church was getting ready for their Monday Night Bible Study. All of a sudden, a lady traveling east on Highway 138 left the road and headed through our Church Yard. She was traveling at a high rate of speed and there were no signs of braking. Interestingly enough, just last year, a man left the road and destroyed our Church Sign. The new sign was moved due to impending road work and changes in the right of way. If the sign had not been moved, this lady would have blowed right through it.

She kept going and going and going. She barely missed the Fellowship Hall as she traveled past a Bradford Pear tree on one side and a light pole on the other. She continued across the field and ultimately ran into a tree that borders on a neighbors property. Immediately the calm Evening was replaced by the frenzy of a busy moment. Fire Trucks, Ambulance, and Police lights were lighting up the Evening sky. All of this because of a wrong turn and going in the wrong direction.

I can remember times in the past making wrong turns. I've traveled many miles out of my way simply because I was not on target. How blessed we are with the advent of GPS devices that help us along the way. Even with great devices and good directions, we can still get off the course of our lives. How many young people have you known that were blessed with potential only to mess up their lives and get sidelined by things that would get them off the course of progress?

If we are not careful, our lives can hit a snag and in the case of this lady - a tree. We are called to be alert, diligent, and watchful because we just don't know what is coming next. It doesn't take very long for a beautiful Evening to turn into one big mess.

Let's be open to new opportunities and so that we might not get off the track of what God has in store for our lives. These are exciting days to live and experience the freshness of God's love!

"I'm giving up Rutabagas for Lent!"

2009-03-02T01:42:00.000-08:00

I've decided that I'm giving up Rutabagas for Lent! I'll go deeper in my Lenten journey and give up Cabbage, Beets, Turnip Greens, and Collards. Does it sound sacrifical enough? Lent is a time to re-evaluate our focus as we journey toward the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Sometimes, we need to step back and give thought to why we do the things we do.

Back to my sacrifices of the season. I must confess to you that I'm really not making much of a sacrifice from the items I've named. I don't like to eat rutabagas, cabbage, turnip greens, beets, or collards. I don't eat these items anytime during the course of the year.

You know, it's easy to give up something that isn't very important to us! That's really not a sacrifice. Perhaps the better question we can raise is "What can we do that can help us to re-focus and capture the larger picture of life during these days?

It might be that instead of "giving up something", we would do well to "put on something." Maybe we could do something out of the ordinary to help other people. What if we used these days to expand our compassion, our understanding, and our love. Just maybe, a new transformation could take place. May it be so in my life and yours!

Surprises! Surprises!

2009-01-28T04:52:00.000-08:00

A story was born out of southern California when a woman gave birth to Octuplets. This instant family of six boys and two girls became the second set of octuplets ever born in the United States. They thought there would be seven children and an extra one came with the crowd. Just imagine that! Where do you put eight cribs, eight highchairs, eight strollers, and the thousands of diapers it will take? While this is a moment of great joy, it is also days of difficulty and challenge.
As I see families with twins and triplets, I feel sorry for them. My hat is off to the constant work and care they must give to lend support for these young lives. Life is full of many surprises that come our way. This family will need other families. They will learn just how important "community" really is.

I was reading another surprising story about John Thain, Merrill Lynch's CEO that in the wake of governmental support for his ailing business goes and makes the most unusual expenditures in such a critical economic climate. Imagine spending $87,000 for an area rug; another rug for $44,000; a mahogany pedestal table for $25,000; four pairs of curtains for $28,000; a pair of guest chairs for $87,000; a desk for $18,000; six chairs for $37,000; a $5,000 mirror; a $13,000 chandelier; a coffee table for $16,000; and a "commode on legs" (a new one for me) for $35,000; Regency chairs for $24,000; 40 yards of fabric for $5,000 and a parchment waste can for $1,400. This shopping spree is more than an occasional surprise, it is temporary or long-term insanity. Surely, there must be a deeper sense of reality as we make sense of living everyday.

One of the good surprises that we have the possibility to encounter is the delightful surprise by our God who offers us new grace, abundant hope, and unfailing love. When the rest of the world seems to be in chaos and losing it's grip, we turn back to the God who created the world, called it good, and who provides meaning and hope.
Live today with a new anticipation of what God's grace can do in your life. Think of God's love as a waterfall that refreshes, nourishes, and offers meaning. All is not lost and there is a good surprise waiting for us today!

Yes they can!

2008-11-13T07:10:00.000-08:00

The Georgia Baptist Convention met in Jonesboro, Georgia for it's 2008 Annual Convention Meeting. During that convention, through actions they took to restrict giving from churches who have a woman as their pastor, they were saying "Women can't preach!" I am here today to say proudly, boldly, and affirming anyone who God calls....

YES THEY CAN!!

This action by the Georgia Baptist Convention was aimed at the First Baptist Church of Decatur, Georgia who called Rev. Julie Pennington-Russell as their Senior Pastor. My family and I have worshipped on several occasions at the First Baptist Church in Decatur. Pastor Julie is one of the best pastors we have in Georgia.

Paul the Apostle declares in Galatians 3:28 that "there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." The good news of the gospel is that we can be whoever God calls us to be. I can say to young men and young women that they can follow the plan God has for their lives.

One of the challenges faced today is that many do not understand what it means to be "a Baptist." Baptists from their earliest foundations have affirmed the "autonomy of the local church." What this means is that each church follows the direction God is leading them and they are not controlled by any denomination or other church body. What brings Baptist people together is not conformity or uniformity, but cooperation in missions and evangelism. Denominations are to be servants of the local church and not the other way around.

I am not suggesting that another church should or should not call any specific person to be their pastor. What I am saying is that every church should be led by the Holy Spirit to call whoever, be it male or female, as pastors and leaders in their fellowship.

I read with great interest about the passing of a great Christian lady in Rockmart, Georgia. She was an active member of the Second Baptist Church in Rockmart for over 52 years. Her funeral was being planned in November of this year. As a part of the funeral service, two women were asked to read Scripture. The pastor of that church had a problem with women reading scripture (Amazing isn't it?) Instead of having the funeral service in the church where she devoted her life, the funeral had to be held in the funeral home chapel because of the actions of this pastor. Where does it all end?

I say to young people that God has a plan for their lives! Follow that plan and seek first the kingdom of God. If God call you to preach, go preach!! Isn't it ironic that on the Eve of the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering Emphasis, that if Lottie Moon were alive today, she could not be appointed as a missionary. Some would say, you are "only a woman." God had great things in store for this lady of faith who faithfully and diligently proclaimed the gospel of Jesus.

Yes you can follow Jesus! Go for it!

Living life on the edge!

2008-10-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

I was watching the Today Show on NBC when Nik Wallende walked across a rope stretched between two buildings or structures in New York, City. I watched every move with the fear that his foot would slip or something would go wrong and his life was in the balance. I was so moved by this experience, I didn't want to leave the room. If life didn't get any stranger than this, he attempted another amazing thing as he rode his bicycle across this same rope and successfully made a new record in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Riding a bicycle on a rope across the sky of New York City, you've got to be kidding! As I travel the Eagles Landing Road on the way to I-75, I am amazed at the markings for bicycles. That is almost like assisted suicide. I just can't imagine how it can all flow together. I still can't imagine riding a bicycle down Brannan Road. It all just looks too much like living life on the edge with little security.

How many people do you know that are living life on the edge? They may be on the edge of overdose, suicide, crime, or just giving up. Denese Rodgers tells us that there are some 35 gangs in Henry County involving some 650 children. Sandra Reagan has a powerful program working with young people assigned out of Juvenile court who have seen life out of control and living on the edge. Her program is direct and has amazing success. They work not only with the young people, but also the adults. In such a blog as this, I can begin to describe what she faces. It is beyond imagination.

Everyday, she and those who work with her see folks who are living life on the edge.

In this troubled economy, I hear from people almost daily who are living life on the edge. They are looking for a place to get food, rent, and money for utilities. They are often making difficult choices. Some Seniors are debating between getting their prescription medicine and putting food on their tables. Yes, they are living life on the edge.

One of the great challenges for the church is finding ways to help people who are living life on the edge. Sometimes the church has been guilty of covering it's eyes and pretending all is well in our world. All is not well in our world and it is time to wake up! We can make a difference with people who are living life on the edge, just ask folks like Sandra Reagan. They see miracles happening all the time!

"Going Green"

2008-10-08T11:43:00.001-07:00

We hear lots of information today about "Going Green." There is lots of discussion about recycling cans, bottles, newspaper, cardboard, and so many things. Instead of piling our trash dumps higher and higher, we can make better use of our resources by recycling. It just makes sense, doesn't it?

At our house, we have stacks for newspapers, cans, plastic bottles, and many other things. Several years ago, we created a compost bin in our back yard. Use grass clippings and leaves to produce mulch for our garden. We found through recycling, our trash pickup was cut in a big way. It just makes sense to make better use of our resources.

>I know that some people will look at "Going Green" as some trendy wave that will soon pass and everybody will be back to doing things the way they used to. I would like to offer another perspective. I would like to toss out the idea of "Going Green" as a Biblical Mandate. In Genesis 2:15 it says, "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it." Our God entrusted man not only to enjoy the benefits of the garden, but to take care of it.

Global warming is talked about especially by the Scientific Community and also by Meteorologists. How we treat our environment says so much about how we approach life. The easy way is simply to "use" instead of "conserve". It's easy to use something, throw it out, and treat it like somebody Else's problem. I believe it we are called to a higher standard if we take seriously the call of God to take care of the land he has given us. Using the new fluorescent bulbs just makes sense. They last four to ten times longer and they produce one quarter less energy. They are a little more expensive at first, but they make economic sense in the long run.

One of the truly wonderful goals that I've heard many people express is the desire to make this world a better place when they leave than when they arrived. "Going Green" is one approach to making this happen. What are some things you are doing to make better use of energy and resources? What are you doing to help the precious environment we enjoy? I would love to hear from you!

Fireproofing our lives!

2008-09-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

Wilda and I went to see one of the best movies I've seen in a very long time. "Fireproof" the movie has just been launched in theatres across the country. The creators of Fireproof are the same who created "Facing the Giants." These are movies that came out of a desire by the Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia to try and make a difference in the culture around them.

"Fireproof" is a story about a young man, Caleb, and his wife Catherine, who are drawn apart and nearing divorce. It's a movie about what we do when we find ourselves without answers and we are drawing the last straw of our relationships. This is a story about leaving our marriages behind or fighting to make them succeed. It is my hope that every couple will go and watch this movie. I truly believe it can transform their lives.

We are very concerned in our lives about securing the things that are important around us. We are concerned about personal finances, our 401k's, our important papers, our jobs, our cars, our houses, and so many things around us. Sometimes, there can be the tendency to neglect some of the most important things in our lives like our spouse, our children, and our family. If these areas are to be secured, it is only God who can give us the capacity to love, to care, and fight the challenges that could destroy us.

What are some of the challenges that couples face where you live? What is the hardest thing for couples to overcome today? How can couples Fireproof their marriages?

If you have seen the movie, "Fireproof", I would love to hear your comments about how it might have touched your life in a new way. I just believe God wants to bring reconciliation and hope to fractured lives today!

Let me hear from you! Click on the comments tab below and share your thoughts. Let's have a conversation about Fireproofing our lives!

Ed Galbreath

"Hurting the Hand that Feeds You"

2008-09-22T00:44:00.000-07:00

The troubling word came to us that someone broke in to the facilities of "Helping in His Name Ministries" last Monday night (Sept 15th) and stole their 25' delivery truck. According to Lori Miller, Executive Director of Helping in His Name Ministries, the truck contained 10 pallets of food, household items, toys, and diapers which were loaded inside. Also lost that evening was a pallet jack, hand truck, and tool box. They made a hasty escape by driving the truck right through the gated fence that was also destroyed. These items would have helped so many people in their struggles during this challenging time in such an awful economy locally and nationally.

Here is a dynamic ministry in our community that is touching the lives of people throughout our community. I refer people to this wonderful ministry every week and lately it has seemed like everyday. Helping in His Name Food Pantry provides temporary emergency help to the unemployed, the underemployed, the elderly on fixed incomes, and single parents. They feed over 2300 people every month. Just one day last week, they received over 90 phone calls. To date they have helped 7,529 families which equates to 24,362 total people. Of those, 11,044 are children under the age of 18 and 1,229 were senior citizens over the age of 65. They are making a significant impact in our community touching the lives of people with the love of Jesus Christ. My deep appreciation goes out to Lori Miller and also to more than a hundred volunteers that keep this ministry on the cutting edge of doing what God has called all of us to do.

I am saddened, troubled, and outraged by this horrible act of aggression by thieves who would steal from a ministry committed to offering help. Here is a prime example of someone who is hurting the hand that feeds them. These individuals could have received free food, free counsel, free caring, and someone who could touch their lives in meaningful ways. Instead of receiving the free gift, they chose to steal, hurt, and destroy.

There are so many times in my ministry that I have witnessed people who are hurting the hand that feeds them. I've seen children rebel against parents who were putting food on their table, clothes on their backs, school supplies in their hands, and providing them a warm place to sleep and live. I've seen children cry out in hatred toward parents and even some who murdered parents in awful rage.

I've seen employees in companies hurt and seek to destroy those who employed them. Whether through stealing on the job or stealing clients for another business, they were hurting the hand that feeds them. Despite the fact that these businesses were putting food on their tables, they agressively sought to harm them.

I know many, many people who are bitter toward church. They cry out against it, they resist it with their voices, actions and lifestyles. Many of those who think the church is bad, quickly turn to it when they are hungry, sick, or facing death in their families. Quite simply, they spend much of their time trying to hurt the hand that wants to feed them. There is such a diversity in ministry and a difference in focus among so many churches. There is something and some place for everyone to find renewed focus, the love of Christ, and a place to belong.

Most of all today, I find many people who resist the God who loves them and cares for them more than anybody else. They turn away from God, they don't want to hear anything from God or about God. They live their lives by seeking to hurt the very hand that wants to give them new life and hope!

Have you known people who seek to hurt the hand that feeds them? I would love to hear from you. Take a moment and share a comment below. Blogging is quick, easy, and a great way to share our thoughts about this situation that touches our lives. I look forward to reading your comments!

Ed Galbreath

Vacation Bible School

2008-06-23T08:46:00.001-07:00

I was recently reading a blog found on the online version of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in Atlanta. This blog had to do with Vacation Bible School and what people thought about it. I can't recall ever viewing a blog or vent about Vacation Bible School in the Atlanta paper before. I read with amazement as some individuals were critical of churches for using the Bible and presenting the message of Christ to those who attended.

Some shared comments with the opinion that churches who host Vacation Bible School should take the route of summer camps and weekday events. Some indicated that they did not want to put their children through such an experience.

Our church just completed Vacation Bible School just about two weeks ago. Let me say that it was a great experience for young people and workers alike. Everybody I know went away feeling great about the week and longing for more experiences like that. In our church, we believe that the Bible is the center of our weeklong experience in Vacation Bible School. Everything we do centers around various biblical texts as God speaks to us through Scripture. Our Bible Study, Crafts, Recreation, and Mission experiences all revolve around the central theme we read in scripture. In our Vacation Bible School, you would hear with great excitement the news that we can know God personally and experience new life through Jesus Christ.

There are many opportunities for young people throughout the summer. There are all kinds of fun and valuable experiences to participate in. But for us in our church, Vacation Bible School is always a special time because we love to share the love that God has place in our hearts.

Getting Closer

2008-05-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Have you been somewhere in a crowded place where people where constantly bumping into you? Have you gone to a church or a business function only to have the chairs so close to each other that you would touch your neighbor every time you took a bite of food? Homes are being built closer and closer and closer together in many places. High rise apartment buildings are going up in an effort to put more people in a smaller area of space. As a child, did you share a bedroom with your brother or sister? Did you long for the day when you would get a room that was yours and yours alone?

There is something about having our personal space. We need room to grow, interact, and to call our own. If someone gets too close to us, we rebel. There is something about our individualistic nature that cries out for freedom and space.

We are also confronted with closeness on a different level. I’ve been around lots of people who like to hug each other. For many of us, to be hugged produces a spirit of friendship and warmth. I’ve known many people who were not “huggers” and rebelled when someone got too close to them.

One of the things that many of us long for throughout our lives is to have “a friend.” I am not speaking of a co-worker, a colleague in the business world, or a casual acquaintance. I am not even speaking about another person at church. For me, I speak of a friend as one where we can “open up ourselves” and allow that person to get closer to our emotions, our goals, our hopes, and our dreams. With a friend, we can get closer and closer knowing that someone cares about us.

On the one hand we search for our individualism and need for personal space. On the other hand, we need to feel loved, cared, and close to someone in our lives. I would love to hear your story…

"Back to the basics"

2008-03-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

In a most incredible move, Starbucks closed every store nation-wide totalling some 7,100 stores on February 26th for three hours. This closing was to re-train employees on the basics of how to do things better. It was a return to the basics to improve quality and make a better cup of coffee. It was an expensive experience, but a return to the basics of how to make coffee can prove profitable for years to come.

As I write, Major League Baseball teams are gathering now in Florida and other places for spring training. None of the games will count in the season standings, but it provides an opportunity to return to the basics. Players work on running, fielding, throwing, and batting. Many players do not need spring training to get in shape because they are involved in elaborate workouts throughout the year. What they do need is a time when they can reaffirm what they already know and learn how to do the basics better.

In Church, we are approaching the most incredible time in all the church year. We will focus upon the Cross and what Jesus did for the forgiveness of our sins. We will move from suffering and the cross to Easter in which we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. The resurrection is one of the most powerful moments in all of Christian experience. Sometimes we get involved in many other things that are good, enriching, and strengthening. But we are challenged today to get back to the basics of our faith as we remember what Jesus did for each of us.

Let's pause our busy lives full of complicated schedules and events to focus upon the basics of life. Let's re-visit what Jesus did for each of us. A return to the basics can be a live changing experience.

Why Lent?

2008-02-25T07:39:00.000-08:00

Someone recently shared with me that the churches they had attended had never mentioned the season of Lent. Perhaps that has been your experience. So why celebrate the season of Lent?

Originating in the 4th century of the church, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and spans the course of 40 days (excluding Sundays) and concludes on the Saturday before Easter. Lent is a time that emphasizes prayer, preparation, repentance, denial, forgiveness, and sacrifice. So, what's so important about Lent?

Let me offer several thoughts about why Lent is so important:

Preparation - I've heard it said by many people, "Lent helps me to prepare for Easter." We need days of preparation if we are to fully behold the experience of Easter. Lent provides a journey where we can think, grow, and open ourselves to what God is doing through Christ Jesus.
Sacrifice - Lent calls our attention to the sacrifice that Jesus made for our sins and calls us to re-examine our own motives, feelings, and actions. In a world that often thinks about "what's in it for me", we need to explore the larger picture of life that calls for sacrifice and service.
The Cross - To some, the Cross appears "old-fashioned" and "outdated." To those in Christ Jesus, it is the power of God at work through Jesus to offer salvation and forgiveness. I do not believe that we are ever ready for Easter until we have embraced God's work on Good Friday.
Getting Ready - Lent calls us to "make ready" for what God is doing through sacrifice and crucifixion. It helps us to prepare for the celebration of Easter. Easter is not about Easter eggs, new clothes, and fuzzy feelings. It is not about entertainment, pageants, and productions. Easter is all about resurrection!!

Lent can help us on our journey so that Easter can have greater meaning and purpose in our lives. Easter is a time of hope and celebration. Lent can be a meaningful journey through these incredible days of preparation, prayer, and hope! Let me hear from you.

Has "repentance" become a forgotten legacy?

2008-02-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

Do you find change difficult? Life is always changing, but some of the changes we face can be incredibly difficult to absorb. Someone has said that the seven last words of the church would be: "We've never done it that way before." Change can be good for us and energize our lives.

John the Baptist preached in the desert, ate locusts, wore clothing made of camel's hair, wore a leather belt around his waist, enjoyed wild honey and did things differently from many of us. John had a unique style and a strong following of people. While John had a growing popularity, his message was not always popular. John called for people to change. He called upon people to repent and turn to God.

Repentance involves a "turning around" in one's life. It means turning away from sin and turning back to God. Repentance is not always easy, but it always necessary. Life in our 21st century is very different from life John-the-Baptist encountered. Does "repentance" ever seem like a forgotten legacy in our generation? It is very common today for people to blame other people for what is happening in their life. There seems to be an absence of personal responsibility and accountability. Can we admit that we are wrong and that we have failed? Are words like "sin", "repentance", and "forgiveness" only meant for other people in an era gone by? Can we come before God realizing that we are sinners only saved by the grace of God?

The season of Lent calls us to a new and different way. It calls us to examine ourselves and open our lives to encounter Jesus in a new way. I hope these can be meaningful days in all of our lives.

Share your thoughts with me! I look forward to reading your comments....

A different kind of Sunday!

2008-01-20T01:40:00.001-08:00

Today is a different kind of Sunday at my place. I'm used to getting up early, making sure I've got everything I need for the day, and off to church. I enjoy getting there early and meeting the people. Today, Jim and Donna Drake were coming to help us with music and that was going to be a special treat.

Although we wanted to have church today (Jan 20th), the decision came early and easily. We knew that the snow and rain that came our way would turn to ice overnight as temperatures went below 20 degrees. Safety of all who come and worship with us is a priority and we knew that roads would be slick, and church parking lots get icy quick.

Today is a day to stay home, grab some hot chocolate, put another log in the fireplace, and cuddle up to a comfortable blanket. Maybe nature events like this cause many of us to explore a new concept in the scriptures we might describe as "Sabbath Rest." In the busy time of creating the world, God stopped on the seventh day to rest. Something God knows that we need to learn is that "rest is good." Today is a different kind of Sunday. It's a day with family and a time to refocus energy.

I'll turn the television on and later in the day watch the Packers and Giants battle with truly "giant" weather conditions. I heard somebody say that it could be 25 degrees below zero. I can't imagine playing or even being a fan in the stands during such an occasion. Some years ago, I tried to do a funeral with several feet of snow on the ground. It was so cold that only a very few folks gathered at the graveside. It was so cold....... that my voice shivered and I truly had difficulty getting any words out. They had snow-chains on the funeral home vehicles and just tried to survive the day.

What does your day look like? I would love to hear from you about the ways you will spend this Sabbath. Did the snow create a beautiful scene outside your house? What will you remember about this day. Share your thoughts as you embrace this day in a bright and uniquely different day. (click on the comments link and share your thoughts)

The persistent widow called Zack!

2007-10-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

Luke tells a fascinating story about a persistent widow who kept going back to a Judge demanding justice. This Judge openly had the reputation that he did not fear God and did not care about people. This Judge got tired of this persistent women coming back to him over and over again. This widow woman prevailed because of her persistence and unwillingness to give up.

I've often wondered what this kind of woman would look like especially in the 21st Century world that I live in. To my utter amazement on a Monday afternoon, I found such a person and I couldn't believe what I was witnessing. My mom who lives with us was having difficulty with her Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. She received a bill for money she did not owe. I called the insurance company expecting to get another uncaring representative that did not fear God or care about people. To my amazement on this Monday afternoon, I found myself talking with a lovely and caring woman named Emily. Her computer crashed while we were talking and she handed the case off to a fellow employee whose name was Zack. Zack got on the phone and we explored the turf together. He would not leave the issues unsettled but spent four hours on the phone that afternoon. He called Medicare four time and the Social Security Adminstration three or four times. While some Medicare employees hung up on him, he didn't give up. He worked and worked and worked until the issue was resolved.

I came face to face with a modern day version of this persistent widow. This time it was a man and his name was Zack. He made a difference because he cared and he didn't give up.
God was trying to teach me persistence of that Monday afternoon. It's a lesson I need to learn and practice!

Ed Galbreath