More Precious Than Jewels

Proverbs poses an interesting question, “An excellent wife who can find?” (31:10). It’s not that she doesn’t exist, but the reality is, she’s hard to find. When a man does finally find her he begins to discover that “she is far more precious than jewels” (31:10). Because of her great value, the husband of an excellent wife praises her (31:28-29). I’m so thankful that I found—or I should say, that God found for me—an excellent wife, one who is definitely worthy of my praise.

So, on this Valentine’s Day, I want to give praise to Shelley, by sharing 14 things I love about her…

1. She’s passionate about her love relationship with God! I have been blessed to watch her grow significantly these past 20 years.

2. She’s beautiful from the inside out. Admittedly, I was first attracted to her outer beauty (and still am!) but soon began to discover that her inner beauty was just as radiant.

3. She’s a wonderful mother who loves her daughters unconditionally and teaches them with her words, but more importantly, with her life.

4. She’s an avid reader who shares what she’s learning with me and our girls.

5. She’s gentle and kind—she diligently seeks to live a life of grace to all she comes into contact with.

6. She’s a great cheerleader. Through the years she has not only encouraged me with her words, but I’ve also watched her do the same with our girls and so many others.

7. She loves and values her family! She loves to invest time with me, our girls, her mom, brother, and grandmother.

8. She’s a gifted writer with a God-given talent. Her writings stir my heart.

9. She’s got a beautiful smile—and it’s very contagious!

10. She’s truly selfless. I’ve watched her time and time again buy the girls something they need with her own birthday or Christmas money rather than buying something for herself that she needs.

11. She loves to take walks—and I love taking walks with her! I love that time to connect with her.

12. She takes great care of herself and her family. She not only exercises to stay healthy, but she also encourages our family to do the same. Oh yes, she prepares healthy meals—and they’re delicious!

13. She’s a great listener, always quick to hear and slow to speak.

14. She’s a gifted, creative and patient teacher, at home with our girls, at church with the youth and adults, and in the ESL class where she has served as a volunteer teacher.

To me, Shelley is definitely far more precious than jewels and my love for her grows deeper and stronger with each passing day. I’m so very blessed and I’m thankful for God’s wonderful gift to me!

Happy Valentine’s Day Shelley! I love you!

  

A Parent’s Weight Problem

No doubt that title caught your attention, but please note up front that I am not addressing a weight issue or offering some diet plan. As you will see in this story, a parent’s weight signaled something far deeper than an eating problem.

It’s one of the saddest stories in the Old Testament. A man named Eli, and his two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests of Israel. Tragically though, we’re told that Eli’s sons were “worthless men” (1 Samuel 2:12). Wow! How could two sons grow up in the house of God and be called worthless? Scripture provides an answer: “They did not know the Lord” (1 Samuel 2:12). Hophni and Phinehas dressed the part, but their hearts were far from God! There are a couple of principles that we learn here:

1. You can grow up in a godly family (even in a godly church), but live ungodly.

2. You can be religious (even hold a religious office), but not have a personal relationship with God. 

Because Hophni and Phinehas were ungodly they cared nothing for the things of God. This is clear because they took for themselves, sometimes by force, the choice parts of the meat that were being offered as a sacrifice to the Lord (see 1 Samuel 2:12-17). Scripture tells us that “the sin of the young men was very great in the sight of the Lord, for the men treated the offering of the Lord with contempt” (1 Samuel 2:17). They not only despised the offering of the Lord, but they also engaged in illicit and unashamed immorality in public (see 1 Samuel 2:22). There’s a third principle we learn:

3.  No sin goes undetected by God. 

Because Hophni and Phinehas were ungodly they were stubborn and rebellious. Eli, their father, heard about what his sons were doing and spoke to them about it (see 1 Samuel 2:22-25). Their response? “They would not listen to the voice of their father” (1 Samuel 2:25). Should we be surprised by their response? No! They were ungodly, which leads us to a fourth principle:

4. Ungodly people act ungodly.

Hophni and Phinehas did not respect the Lord, therefore they did not respect their dad. But there’s another reason why they did not respect their father. When a man of God arrived at Shiloh, he included this question in his prophecy against Eli’s house: “Why then do you scorn my sacrifices and my offerings that I commanded for my dwelling, and honor your sons above me by fattening yourselves on the choicest parts of every offering of my people Israel?” (1 Samuel 2:29). The man of God exposed not only Hophni and Phinehas’ sin, but also Eli’s sin. It is clear that Eli was condoning his sons’ sin by eating of the choice meat that had been set apart as a sacrifice to the Lord. Scripture tells us that when Eli died, “he was old and heavy” (1 Samuel 4:18). Eli’s weight, a result of his sin, actually contributed to his death…he “fell over backward from his seat by the side of the gate, and his neck was broken and he died, for the man was old and heavy” (1 Samuel 4:18). A fifth principle is revealed here:

5. When parents condone their child’s sin, they become part of the problem. 

Yes, it’s one of the saddest stories in the Old Testament. There are many unknowns and so we don’t have a complete account of their story. But the account we do have reveals enough information that should cause parents to take notice. Parents play a key role in determining their children’s behavior and lifestyle. Yes, when children grow older they will make their own decisions, but it’s the formative years that are so critical. If you’re a parent like me, then we need to love and lead our children. Here are some ways we can love and lead them…

∙ Be a godly example in our words and actions by living out the truths of the Bible in the power of the Holy Spirit. 

∙ Teach our children who God is, as well as His Son, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit by reading the Bible together and discussing it with them.

∙ Invest quality and quantity time with our children by praying with them, playing with them, listening to them, talking with them, teaching them.

∙ Lovingly confront and discipline our children when they sin, focusing on discipleship and discipline rather than simply handing out a punishment.

Can you think of some other ways we can love and lead our children? Feel free to share in the comments section.

Show Him Honor!

One of the stabilizing forces in a society is a healthy respect for parents and their authority. Tragically though, respect for parents and their authority seems to be a lost art in our nation. I have heard children telling their parents what they are going to do rather than asking for permission. I have witnessed children talking back to and even walking away from their parents. I have watched children throw a temper tantrum in the middle of a store because they could not have what they wanted. But the blatant disrespect of parents only gets more serious. Just this week, a 13 year old entered the equivalent of a guilty plea in a Ohio juvenile court. His crime? At the age of 10 he fatally shot his mother in the head with a rifle. The reason? An argument over chores (1). One result of this blatant disrespect is that it spreads over into all of society. Children who do not respect their parents will also not respect other adults, such as teachers, law enforcement, etc. It is clear from these and other examples that our society has become quite destabilized. 

Sadly in our politically correct society, there are many who have worked hard over the years to expunge the name of God and anything to do with God (i.e., the Word of God). However, it is in the pages of the Word of God that we find God’s commands. Unfortunately, too many see these commands as restrictive. However, what is seen as restrictive by some in reality is for our protection. God created us therefore He knows what is best for us. Since He knows what is best for us it only reasons that we should obey what He says. One of His commands is found in the book of Exodus. God said, “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). This command was given to His children, the Jewish people. However, it was also a command that was issued to the Church. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Honor your father and mother” (Ephesians 6:2).   

I recall listening to the late Chuck Colson when he was sharing a story about a visit to a local high school. During his visit the principal was telling Chuck that the school was having a problem with students cheating. Exercising great wisdom, Chuck suggested that the school post a sign with these words, “Do not steal.” Of course, Chuck was simply repeating one of the Ten Commandments given by God (see Exodus 20:1-17). Chuck’s premise was that children, or in this particular case, high school students, needed to be taught not to steal. In a similar way, children need to be taught to honor their father and their mother. Children who are taught to honor their parents will then honor other adults in society.

On a side note, I must also mention a command issued to parents. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Parents must not be domineering, placing unreasonable demands on their children. Parents need to be understanding and fair in both their discipline and expectations. Parents must also carefully teach their children the ways of God found in the pages of the Word of God (see Deuteronomy 6:4-9). I firmly believe that parents who honor God and His Word will not only teach their children with their words but also by the lives they lead. In this way, children learn to honor God and His Word from their parents, and in the process, learn to honor their parents.

On Sunday, June 16, 2013, we celebrate Father’s Day. It’s a great day to honor your father. No doubt some of you reading this post have great dads, while some of you may have not so committed dads. Let me encourage you to love your dad, regardless if he’s the best or the worst! Who knows what impact you can have on his life if you will simply and unconditionally love him and show him honor. By the way, that’s what God did for you. He loved you unconditionally. He loved you just the way you were. He loved you so much that He sent His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, into the world to die for you (see John 3:16; Romans 5:8). So, follow His example and love your dad unconditionally, and in the process, show him and God honor!

I’m so thankful to have had a dad that loved and honored God. He taught me by his life what it meant to love God, honor God, and yes, honor your parents. So, on this Father’s Day I remember my dad, Ed Keatts. Although he has been gone for over 30 years I still remember his teachings and his life. And I’ll never forget him. “The glory of children is their fathers” (Proverbs 17:6). Happy Father’s Day!

A Reminder While On Vacation

I love family vacation! It is always great to get away with family just to rest, relax, and have fun together. Our family recently spent ten days in Gulf Shores, Alabama. We had a lot of fun swimming, riding the waves, collecting sea shells, building sand castles, hunting hermit crabs, eating good food, and just hanging out together. We made a lot of great memories! (see pictures below)

While on vacation, two experiences reminded me just how fast time slips away. The first experience occurred one evening when our family made a short trek to the local outlet mall. While my wife and two oldest daughters went shopping, my two youngest daughters and I went to the toy store to look around. While walking the aisles, tears began to come to my eyes. It seemed just like yesterday that my wife and I were buying toys for our little girls—toys that they are now too old to enjoy.

The second experience occurred that same evening while our family was taking a walk along the beach. I was following behind the girls when I noticed they had stopped for a minute, huddling around something in the sand. As I approached, my youngest daughter, Sarah, was placing her foot in the footprint that my oldest daughter, Haley, had made. Sarah’s foot was almost as big as Haley’s! Although I have noticed that my two youngest, Sarah and Emily, are growing up, this experience confirmed it and came as a surprise of just how big my little girls are getting. 

Reflecting back on these two experiences, two verses come to mind. The first comes from Solomon: “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward” (Psalm 127:3). God has blessed me with sweet girls. Each one of them are unique and special. They are each a blessing to me and I love them so much. I am learning to treasure them more and more with each passing day.

The second comes from the Apostle Paul, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil'” (Ephesians 5:15-16). Realizing that time is slipping away, as a dad, I must be wise and make the best use of the time I have with my girls. Realizing that the days are evil I must continually take time to teach the truths of God’s Word to my girls, instilling God’s truth in practical ways.

If you are a parent, I believe you would agree that time is slipping away. Your children are growing up fast so don’t miss out on the treasure that God has given you. I challenge you to be wise and make the best use of the time you have with your children. Invest time with them. Build memories with them. Have fun together. Laugh a lot. I also challenge you to instill the Word of God into your child’s life. Whether at the dinner table, at their bedside, riding along in a car together, or even taking a long walk along the seashore, take the time to teach your children the Word of God. Your children need wisdom that only comes from God’s Word to face the many challenges they will face in this life.

Here are a few pictures from our vacation…

It Is Good To Give Thanks!

The psalmist wrote, “It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night” (Ps. 92:1-2).

Today is a special day…a day to give thanks to God and celebrate one of His gifts to our family. The gift? Sarah! Today Sarah celebrated her eighth birthday! It is really hard to believe that my baby is growing up so fast. She continues to grow into a sweet young lady. There is no doubt that Sarah is a blessing from God to our family!

And speaking of blessings from God, I am a very blessed dad! Not only has God graciously given me Sarah, but also Lauren, Haley, and Emily. It is a blessing to my heart, as well as their mom’s heart, to watch our girls grow into godly young ladies who love their family, but more importantly, who love God.

Solomon penned these words…
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. ¹

It is certainly good to give thanks to the Lord and today I am reminded yet again just how much He has blessed me!

¹ The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Ps 127:3–5). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

A Faith That Spans Generations

In 1897, Joyce Ritson was born in Liverpool, England, and grew up there. In 1918, at the age of 21, she met Jesse Coffey, who served in the American Navy, and they were later married.

Unbelievably, just three days after their wedding, Jesse was ordered back to his ship to set sail. This left Joyce to travel by sea to America in the fall of 1919 by herself. You’ll not find Joyce’s life story, or even her name mentioned in history books. In fact, this story and the pictures are the first to be posted online to my knowledge. But for those who knew Joyce Ritson Coffey she was a woman of faith. She loved God and lived her life to please Him.

In 1942, after having already given birth to six girls and four boys, Joyce gave birth to her baby daughter and named her Ammie. As Ammie grew up she dreamed of becoming a career girl; however, all of that changed when she met a young man named Ed Keatts. In November, 1963, Ammie and Ed were married. The following October Ammie gave birth to a daughter, Rhonda. In 1967, to the surprise of everyone, Ammie gave birth to twins, a son, Robert, and a daughter, Robyn. Like her mom Joyce, you’ll not find her story, or even her name in any history book, but all those who know Ammie would testify that she is a woman of faith. She loves God and lives her life to please Him. Joyce Ritson Coffey was my grandmother and her daughter, Ammie Coffey Keatts, is my mom. I am blessed with a godly heritage—a faith that has spanned generations.

We find a similar story in the Apostle Paul’s second letter to Timothy, where he wrote, I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well (2 Tim. 1:5). Timothy acknowledged that Timothy’s faith was real. He also acknowledged that Timothy’s faith was taught to him by his grandmother and mother. Paul challenged Timothy to remember the faith of his grandmother, Lois, and his mother, Eunice. Paul challenged Timothy to remember the sacred writings they had read to him when he was a little boy. Paul also challenged Timothy to remember the power of God’s Word for it is able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Tim. 3:15).

On this Mother’s Day I take time to remember the faith of my grandmother, Joyce, and my mother, Ammie. Thank you mom for being a woman of faith and for teaching me many things, but most importantly, for teaching me the Word of God! You have blessed me with a faith that spans generations. Happy Mother’s Day! I love you!

Honoring Mom

“Her children rise up and call her blessed…”   - Proverbs 31:28

The Bible instructs children to honor their parents. One of the Ten Commandments states: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12; cf. Ephesians 6:2-3). King Solomon instructed children to “Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old” (Proverbs 23:22). He goes on to encourage children to, “Let your father and mother be glad; let her who bore you rejoice” (Proverbs 23:25). It is clear that God expects children to honor their parents. Jesus set the example for us. Just before His death on the cross we see a moving scene. The Apostle John records: When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!" And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home (John 19:26-27). Jesus showed honor for His mother by ensuring that she would be cared for by John.

May 7, 2012, is a very special day—my mom’s 70^th birthday! Last month my two sisters and I had the privilege of celebrating mom’s birthday a little early by taking her to Savannah, Georgia. According to my calculations it had been nearly 29 years since my mom, sisters, and I had shared a trip together like this. The last time we were together like this was on vacation in Canada with my dad in 1983. Several months after that trip God called my dad home to heaven. So our trip to Savannah was very special and brought back a lot of memories for each one of us. We had a blast together and my sisters and I even got into a little mischief (just like when we were kids). It was good to share time together, to relive some memories, and to laugh a lot. It was a blessing to my heart to see the smile on my mom’s face—it was clear she was enjoying herself. 

 

I am thankful for my mom! I am thankful for her prayers for her son. I am thankful for her faithfulness to God. I am thankful for her encouragement. I am thankful for her servant’s heart. In fact, just about every time I call her she is on her way to or from the home of another widow, or carrying a meal to someone. She is truly a servant. I am thankful for her perseverance as she has been a widow now for nearly 29 years—she has set her hope on God (1 Timothy 5:5). I am thankful for the values she instilled into me when I was young. I am thankful that she loved me enough to discipline me. I am thankful that she loved and honored my dad as well as her parents. I am thankful to God that He gave me mom!

Today I rise up and called mom blessed. And I know if dad could he would also rise up and call her blessed and he would sing her praises (see Proverbs 31:28). Happy 70^th Birthday Mom! I am blessed to call you mom. I love you!

Remembering God’s Blessings

The psalmist David challenges the reader with these words: Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits (Ps. 103:2). I believe that when we take time to remember God’s benefits (His good deeds or acts of kindness toward His people) we will have no problem praising Him. As I have meditated on this verse I can’t help but think of God’s blessings on my life. Although the blessings are many (and no post could give them all justice) I want to share a few significant blessings from God…

One of the greatest blessings God bestowed upon me was allowing me to be born into a Christian home with a godly dad and mom. I have attached a photo of my dad and me. This picture was taken as we were preparing to go to church (if you look closely you will see some Bibles on the armrest). My dad was my hero. You can tell by my smile that I was happy to be with him. Little did I know then that I would not always have my dad with me. At the young age of 42, he was diagnosed with cancer and within three very short months dad went to his home in heaven. I still miss him but how blessed I was to have him those 16 short years. I have often said that if I were a third of the man my dad was then I would be a great man. He and my mom instilled in me the godly values that I hold dear today and that I am trying to pass on to my family. I’m grateful that my mom is still living and continues to model the Christ-life to so many.

God blessed me greatly with a great and godly wife. Her beauty was an added bonus! I love her so much and that love grows more and more each day. She has taught me so many lessons by her life as well as by her words. She loves me unconditionally and encourages me daily. I cannot imagine life without her! I remember when I was a teenager praying for my future wife and boy did God answer that prayer far more than I could ever have imagined! He gave me abundantly more than I could have ever asked. Shelley is a wonderful model of one who walks humbly with her God. Because of this (and so much more) she is also a wonderful example to our daughters. Speaking of daughters…

God blessed me with four incredible and beautiful daughters (I guess they get their looks from their mother). This picture was taken at Priester’s in AL on our way to Gulf Shores this past fall (L to R: Haley, Emily, Sarah, and Lauren). They are each a tremendous blessing from my loving Father. They bring joy to my heart and laughter to our home. They have taught me what it means to love selflessly. They are so sweet and thoughtful and demonstrate their love for their mama and daddy in so many ways! They are growing up way too fast. I am so proud of them and so thankful that they love God and are seeking to honor Him with their lives.

As I turn 44 this Thanksgiving Day I have so much to be thankful for. I am a blessed son, husband, and father. I challenge you to remember God’s blessings on your life and as you do to give Him thanks. Happy Thanksgiving!

Blessed To Be A Blessing

On Sunday, January 9, sleet and snow began to fall in metro Atlanta, quickly resulting in the closing of interstates, airports, bus stations, government offices, and businesses. I was in Walmart picking up a few items just hours prior to the start of this winter storm. As I walked through the food center I observed people with loaded grocery carts. I further noticed the bread shelves were almost bare. As I observed shoppers, it became clear that everyone was getting prepared for the storm. Thankfully, our family was already prepared, which was a good thing, because it wasn’t until Wednesday afternoon that I was able to get our vehicle out of the driveway and make my way into town. By Wednesday some delivery trucks had arrived at the local grocery stores, although one grocery store that I visited still had no milk.

Although the ice storm of 2011 caused much disruption, as far as I am aware, no one in metro Atlanta went without power. That was a very good thing. Because our power remained on, we were able to stay warm even when it was freezing outdoors. We were able to enjoy hot meals and hot apple cider. We were able to sleep in warm beds and take hot showers. We were able to talk on the phone with loved ones and check our email. Even with several inches of ice and snow on the ground, life for the most part remained normal. Oh yes, and since we homeschool, our girls did not miss a single day of school (something which they will be more thankful for come May). And yes, we did find time to go sledding (or in our case, boogie boarding) which the girls, and our dogs, enjoyed immensely!
      
As I reflected on the events of this past week I was reminded of just how blessed we really are. Even when trucks could not get through to restock empty shelves and even when we were stranded at home for several days, we never went hungry. We never were thirsty. We never were homeless. God has blessed us so much—so much more than we deserve. And yet today many people, including children, are starving. Many do not have access to pure water. Many are homeless. Many are dying because of disease.   

God has blessed Christians in order that we might be a blessing to others. Whether it is serving in a soup kitchen, giving to a local food bank, giving to a ministry or charity, or giving a handout, we have a responsibility to help others in need. Listen to the words of Jesus recorded in Matthew’s gospel: 
 34 Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom  prepared for you from the foundation of the world.  35 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 took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you took care of Me; I was in prison and you visited Me.' 37 "Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink?  38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or without clothes and clothe You?  39 When did we see You sick, or in prison, and visit You?' 40 "And the King will answer them, 'I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me."  - The Holy Bible, Matthew 25:34–40

If you are looking for a few ways to help those in need then I encourage you to consider the World Hunger Fund of the Southern Baptist Convention. 100% of gifts received go to feed the hungry in North America and around the world. In addition, check out Samaritan’s Purse, a ministry led by Franklin Graham, which helps people in need all over the world.

A Lesson From Seashells

While on a recent trip to Gulf Shores with our family I went for a walk on the beach with my oldest daughter, Haley. As we were walking along I would stop and pick up a seashell. Depending on what the seashell looked like, I would either rinse off the sand and place it in my pocket to keep or I would simply discard it, dropping it back on the seashore. Something occurred to me while doing this: I was only selecting and keeping the seashells that were pretty or those that were whole. I kept discarding the ones that were broken, cracked or not quite as pretty.

As I reflected on this process I had a thought: is this how we treat people? Our culture places great emphasis on beauty. From billboards to magazine covers, from television shows to commercials, it seems outward beauty is most desired. In fact, people go to great lengths to attain the beauty so craved by the world (facelifts, tummy tucks, etc.). In addition, many people have been taught to stay away from those people who aren’t “like us.” In other words, if someone has problems, or is slow or troubled, we dare not associate with them. After all, they’re not quite whole. So, like my seashells, we toss these people aside or simply ignore them.

If we buy into the world’s philosophy of what beauty is, or some erroneous teaching that tells us to disassociate ourselves from people not “like us,” then how will we be able to share the love of Jesus? Perhaps we need to take a good look in the mirror, or better yet, a good look in the Bible. In the Bible we learn that “none is righteous, no not one” (Rom. 3:23). So, lest we think we are whole, and have it all together and that others are beneath us, just remember: apart from God’s righteousness we are broken. In addition, we learn that Jesus came not “to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Lk. 5:32). He invested His life in broken people of His day. He did not pick and choose. He simply loved.

Focusing on the One Whose Birthday We Celebrate

Just a few days ago we celebrated the 13th birthday of my oldest daughter, Haley. What a fun time it was as we watched her blow out her candles and open her presents as she was surrounded by her family and friends. It was a joy to see the beautiful smile on her face and hear her laughter. It was clear she was enjoying and cherishing the moment. After all, it was her moment. The presents were for her. The birthday cake complete with 13 candles was for her. Everyone was focused on her because it was her birthday! It took me back to the moment we celebrated her 1st birthday. Boy, times have changed though. This birthday she did not have the chocolate icing all over her face and she did not get any toys as presents. My how she has grown!

In less than 24 hours our family will get to celebrate another birthday, but this is no ordinary birthday. We are going to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Long ago an angel appeared to some shepherds to announce a special birth. What an experience it must have been for those shepherds to hear the angel in the field that night, “...behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). What an incredible birth announcement it was; after all, it was joyous news that needed to be proclaimed! I also think of the experience it must have been for those shepherds as they arrived in the stable and got to see the newborn Child. They were no longer focused on their sheep, their eyes were focused on the Christ child, the One who would one day lay down His life as a sacrificial lamb to die for the sins of the world. 

Tragically, among many today, the focus this season is not on the Christ of Christmas. In fact, His birth announcement is growing more silent in our nation. Nativity scenes are no longer being displayed in some public squares. The Christ of Christmas is even being denied and His name used in vain. Many Americans treat this holiday as any other, with no special significance. Most have been busy buying presents for family and friends (nothing wrong with that) but all the while ignoring the One whose birthday it is we celebrate!
So, I thought I'd send along a friendly reminder for us all...it is Christ’s birthday we celebrate! It is He who deserves the gifts. Have you thought much about what presents you will give Him for His birthday? Allow me to share a few ideas. Mary, Jesus' mother, gave herself, allowing her womb to nestle the sweet baby Jesus. She also gave her time during the pregnancy and many years after that. The Magi (or wise men) also gave of their time, investing nearly two years traveling to see the Christ child. These magi also gave of their treasure: gold, frankincense and myrrh. Like Mary and the magi we can give ourselves to Jesus, yielding everything we have, including our time and treasure, to Him.

Some of you may be thinking you don't have much to give. Well, my daughters would agree. They don't have much treasure to speak of, but I have noticed lately that they are giving of their time on a very special project. Each year they present a Christmas play for family. This year it's going to be even bigger and better than before. In fact, from the bits and pieces I have been able to put together, it will be more of a production than a play this year. There will be acting, music, and even solos. Our four girls have been giving of their time to write out the play and to practice. Believe me, it requires much time for a 10 and 13 year old to teach two five year olds their parts! I appreciate how our girls help us all to focus on the One whose birthday we celebrate. I look forward this evening to worshipping and adoring my Savior and I know Jesus will be smiling at my girls as they celebrate His birthday...He too will be enjoying the moment! So, regardless of what you have to give to Jesus, at least give Him some of your time on His birthday! Happy Birthday Jesus! Merry Christmas everyone!

“Is It Still Today?”

All of us who have parented a child have special memories of our child asking some rather humorous questions. For example, my daughters, Sarah (4) and Emily (5) often ask, “Is it still today?” Or, when they are getting in their beds to go to sleep they ask, “When we wake up will it be morning?” Or, when looking out the window in the evening when the sky is dark, they ask, “Is it night time?” Our entire family finds these moments very humorous. Emily and Sarah have no concept of time. This is evidenced just about every day. In fact, recently I told Sarah it was time for bed and she said, “But Daddy, we haven’t been able to play today” as if the entire day had disappeared without a trace and somehow they had not got to play. Every day for Sarah and Emily is filled with play and fun. They play hard. One moment they are playing dolls, the next they’re playing school, and the next they’re playing Polly Pockets. Their lives are not controlled by a clock. In fact, a clock means nothing to them. Often you and I look at the clock to determine when it is time to eat, but not Sarah and Emily. Their bellies tell them when they’re hungry! As I said, they have no concept of time. But as Emily Sarah grow up, just like their big sissies, Haley (12) and Lauren (10), they will learn about time. I’m glad that day will come but I will be a little sad when it does because it will mean they're growing up. Gone will be the days of those humorous questions that I looked forward to hearing and yes, even answering!

As we grow up we take on more responsibility. We learn more and the more we learn the more that is expected of us. In Moses’ prayer he asked God to teach him how to do something. Notice what he prays…“Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts” (Psalm 90:12).

You see, as we grow up we begin to realize that life is not all about play. We know we have a schedule to keep. And yes, we know when it is night and that when we wake up it will be morning. We also know that our lives on this earth are only temporary. Knowing all this, it would behoove each one of us to ask God exactly what Moses asked Him. His prayer should become our prayer, “God, teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts!” As we do this, we will discover there is time for us to accomplish everything that God has planned for us—and yes, there will even be time for play and certainly many opportunities to shine the light and love of Jesus!

Happy Birthday Haley!

It was 7:25 p.m. on December 19, 1996, when she came into the world and forever changed our lives! She was so tiny and soft and so helpless -- I did not want to let her out of my sight for one second! It was so exciting to be able to take her home to her new room in her new home. Of course, nights were never the same again. Sleep was hard to come by! 

Through the years so much has changed. She is no longer the tiny baby  who I can hold with one hand but instead has grown into a beautiful young lady. She no longer has a little patch of hair but instead beautiful long blond hair. Instead of screaming and crying she now sings beautifully and laughs a lot. Oh yea, and she has that beautiful, sweet smile that steals your heart.

At times I look at her and wonder, where does the time go? I lie down beside her in her bed and recall the times I would rock her to sleep at night. I watch her reading a book and recall the days she'd sit in my lap and I'd read to her. I see her climb a tree and remember those times when I would hold her up so she could reach the monkey bars. I watch her swinging and remember those times when I would get to push her. I listen as she sings her solo in the youth Christmas musical and tears come to my eyes...my little girl is growing up! 

Haley, you are one special young lady! God blessed my life the day you entered this world and each day since has been a blessing. I hope you know how special you are to me and your mom, and to all of your family for that matter. But I also hope you know just how special you are to God, your heavenly Daddy, who loves you so much more than I could ever love you. Thanks for being so special, so sweet, and for spreading so much sunshine into each of our lives!

I love you my precious daughter! Happy Birthday Haley!