PREACH, PREACHER, PREACH!

All of my life I've heard preachers preach about repentance, baptism in Jesus Name, and the essentiality of the infilling of the Holy Ghost.   Along with this beautiful salvation message, I also heard them preach on the "necessity of separation from the world".  Oh, how my heart thrilled when I would hear messages preached by my Dad and other men of God who came to our church, that showed me what I must do to be saved!  Then, there were the "special events" like  Youth Camps, Camp Meetings, Fellowship Meetings, etc.  that we went to that was filled with power packed services and preaching!  The Word of God was preached without "fear" or "favor"!  I LOVED IT, and I STILL LOVE IT!  

I have heard people say, "We don't need that kind of preaching at meetings where we all come together.  What is preached might not be what someone else believes."  (so on and so forth)  Well, I tend to disagree!  Maybe that comes as a shock to some (that I would voice my opinion - :) but let me say "right up front" that the PREACHING OF THE WORD and the PREACHING OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD DOES NOT OFFEND ME! 

 

 It's a sad day when you go to church and a man of God preaches from his heart, and someone walks away having missed the whole point, because they didn't agree with him!   First, let me ask.  Who do we think we are to sit and judge a man when he preaches what God has placed in his heart?  Who do we think we are to sit in a service and secretly scoff in our hearts, and think "someday he will get his eyes open" or "he's so far back in the dark ages" or  "don't you know people won't listen to THAT"? or  "no wonder he's got a small church!"  Oh, I've heard it all!  I have to say that some of the largest churches I have been around was built on a strong foundation of holiness and separation!!  They are some of the REVIVAL churches of our day!

I just have a question......If WE don't preach it, how will our kids and grandkids get a love for Truth and how will they ever be able to live it?  Yes, I do believe in being kind, and we should not TRY to be offensive to the lost, but TRUTH MUST BE PREACHED for someone to have a true relationship with God, and when your heart is cleansed from the world, you don't want to be a part of it any longer!  I've seen it happen over and over again when someone came to God. They were happy to have the "chains of sin" broken in their life and they didn't want to be associated with it any longer.  The Truth of salvation and separation from the world goes hand in hand.  Don't give me just "part Truth", give me all of it!   

PREACHERS, PLEASE PREACH IT!  From a mother and grandmother who wants her children saved, I beg you to not water down the gospel that we've loved for so long! I don't want you to let up!  I don't want to see my granddaughters acting like the world in their attitude, spirit, and looks!  I've got a lot of treasures I don't want stolen from me!  I beg you to KEEP PREACHING IT!    Don't worry about offending me!  I must be saved, my children and grandchildren must be saved!  I can't stand the thought of my family missing heaven, because we let down on the necessary things that brought us this far!  

Please Pray Against Hurricane Gustav!

NEW ORLEANS — On the same day that residents marked the three-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina's wrath, another storm strengthened into a hurricane miles away and threatened to hit the U.S. Gulf Coast once again.

I am asking my blogger friends to please pray that this hurricane will turn and go back to sea! After the terrible hurricane devastation from Katrina and Rita, the people who were affected are just now recovering. Thank you for your prayers!

Katrina was a Category 3 when it made land fall.  They are saying Gustav could be the same strength.  

I went to Wal-Mart to get a few things awhile ago and some of the shelves are almost EMPTY! Canned meats, bread, some paper goods, etc. People are preparing for whatever will reach here.

Jonathan and Brenda are in Beaumont and are waiting to see what they should do.  We have a place here for them, so if they need to evacuate I expect them to come here.  Unless, we all have to go further away from the storm.  We'll see..... 

It Won't Be Long

It seems things are quiet today. I don't know what everyone is doing, or what might be happening in your life, but I do know a God that calms the storm, gives strength to the weary, and dries the tears!

From the year 1997 to 2004 our family went through major sicknesses and deaths. Our lives were changed forever! I thought, as most everyone does, that life would be "perfect" or as "perfect" as life can be. Then, our beautiful mothers body was invaded by cancer. From the moment she was diagnosed "life turned upside down". Then in 2000 our brother died from a heart condition we did not know he had. In our tending to mother, we never thought our brother, of all people would die! He was bigger than life and when he walked into a room his presence was felt by all! It was about a year later that Mother passed away. A few years went by and there were more changes in our lives, then in 2004 Daddy died of cancer!

I don't know why I am even writing all of this tonight. I have not been thinking about it. I just feel to write.

In all of the changes in life, in sorrow, death, and pain, GOD has been right beside us! He has never left us. He's come through when our hearts were torn apart!

I want to encourage someone tonight who might be struggling with "life". You cannot understand how things can turn out the way they have. You feel alone, and guilty for having the questions in your mind and want to scream WHY! It's okay. Go ahead and scream, but when you do expect to feel His arms wrap around you giving you the support only He can give. And, if you listen close enough you will hear Him whisper, "Child, I still love you. I understand. I've been where you are. Don't give up! It won't be long and you'll be home!"

We've Moved

Since we came to Lufkin we have been parked on our friends RV pad.  David and Kay have been so kind to let us park there, and  it has been nice and clean.We've always loved parking in the "RV Park" at Camp Meeting and special meetings, because we love being with friends during those special times.  But, when there is NO ONE "living" there it can get really lonely!!! This is all we've been seeing for the last few months. After the traffic dies down from Camp Meeting and three Youth Camps, and the last few people come and take their RV's home, it gets really lonely!We were also seeing the "sad abandoned paint ball field". It was so ALIVE while the kids were here playing on it, but now it looks lonely, too!The only company we've had on a "consistent basis" has been the Raccoon Family!  They love coming late at night to see if we've left them anything to eat.  We have awakened to find they have once again raided the garbage cans, and left us the trash to show they were there.  A few days ago we had to put cement blocks on top of the lids so they couldn't get in.  They still tried!  We found out that they absolutely LOVE MEXICAN FOOD!  LOL!  I guess they are just "friends after our own hearts"! We had already caught one and he was in the cage, watching the other one raid the trash can.For those who are wondering, those we caught were picked up by the city and transported to another area in the Pineywoods of TEXAS!
Anyway, we decided a few days ago to move to the camp ground.  I will call this the "Sandy RV Park".Yes, we are parked in the SAND and it gets in everything, especially in my shoes!  Each time we open the door to go inside the "house" we have to clean our shoes off so we don't get sand everywhere!!!  So we put this mat out for our "furry friends"! LOL!I know you are asking the question, "Well, why did you move if you hate it so bad?"  

I am not going to go into the "why" of our move at this time, but I will say I am happy in my new "home".  I have found out there really is LIFE all around me!  

After getting moved to where we are I have actually seen "real, live people" walking around.  :)  I looked through my window this morning and saw young people going to their TBC classes, and I didn't feel alone anymore.  I looked a little further and saw a cabin across the yard where an instructor is living.I actually got to wave at neighbors today! Then, I looked a little further and saw another house, and realized there are people who can look after me if I'm ever alone, and they will look after our "home" when we're gone.  I felt secure knowing there were real people living in Lufkin!  

I know you probably think I'm a little crazy after all of this, but I just wanted everyone to know that there's a whole lot of things worse than "having a little sand in your shoes", and one of those things is being lonely!  I will take the sand any day! 

Here's a friendly reminder: When you're going through life, and all is well in your world, take the time to look around and see if there is someone who just might need you to say "HI"!  

Let It Rain!

How time flies when "you're having fun"!  The work of God is so much "fun"!  We had the privilege of being at New Life Tabernacle - Dallas with Bobby and Glenda Stanley this weekend and we had a fantastic time! We started out the weekend on Saturday morning speaking at a Leadership Seminar.  About this time each year is when enthusiasm starts to subside in some leaders, so we were there to "give them a shot in the arm".  I think they gave me a "shot"!  :) WOW!  We had such a great time on Saturday.  Everything was top-notch!  Lori Maxwell is the Leadership Team Coordinator and she had every aspect of the seminar organized and decorated.We were totally impressed with everything!  We were also thankful to see her and Danny doing so wonderful in the church in Dallas.  The Maxwell's came to Wichita Falls a long time ago when their daughter Shelly was only five.  They were with us for 13 years then moved away because of work.  It was wonderful to see how God is using them in New Life Tabernacle.  We enjoyed hearing and watching Shelly play and lead in worship on Sunday morning.She did a great job!  

Sunday morning service was electrified with the presence of God!  My husband preached wonderfully and many people came forward to regain strength and power.  Then, Sunday night was another outstanding, powerful, incredible, awesome outpouring of His presence!!!!  I wish all of Dallas could have been in that service.  I can truly say, "I have sat in heavenly places" here on earth!  It made me excited to think that someday we will all be together worshipping the King of kings, and Lord of lords.  HEAVEN!  What a place that's going to be!!!  We left Monday and headed back to Lufkin refreshed and blessed.  

The Stanley's flew out Monday morning to North Carolina for a Holy Ghost Crusade.  This is not a "normal crusade", though.  Let me explain.  Several months ago a preacher from another denomination was on the internet and "happened" upon New Life Tabernacle website. (Bro. Stanley's church)  He started studying the Bible study they offer and saw his need of receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost!  He has received it and several of his congregation has also.  (I'm not telling all the details)  Now, he has asked for the Stanley's to come and preach a crusade, because there are people wanting this great experience!  Last night (Monday) was the first night of this meeting and Bro. Stanley called and wanted to tell us about what happened.  He was so excited!  FIVE people received the Holy Ghost last night!  Including two preachers, one preachers wife, and two others!  There are a lot of details, but I do not feel I should go into them, at this time.  Please keep this special meeting in your prayers this week!  God is doing a mighty work and pouring out His spirit on those that are hungry. LET IT RAIN!  

I am happy to say that "great things are happening through the preachers and saints of the United Pentecostal Church International"!  We have people all over the world being used by God, and there's a great  "harvest of souls being reaped".  What a great day we are living in! Let's all be a part of what God is doing in these last days!

I trust you are all having a blessed week.  I am still amazed at the people who have been reading my blog!  :)  THANK YOU!  Hopefully, I will be making another post, soon.  Have a great week!

Overwhelmed

100,000 HITS!

WOW!  I never thought in a million years when I started this blog that I would ever have this many "hits"!  I've been watching my counter, and today after I took a good Sunday afternoon nap, I checked to see how many "hits" I'd had, and to my surprise I had 100,009!!!!  I can't believe it!  I thank all of you who have made my "blogging" worthwhile.  As you know, I LOVE staying in contact with people and this has been one of the most FUN ways of doing it.  THANK YOU for reading what I have on my mind, and THANK YOU for adding so much to my life!  

What Bothers Me About the UPCI

My mind has been RACING this morning about this!  I really don't want to "offend" anyone who might read my blog, but I hope you will listen as I once again "write my heart".  

As you all know, I have been raised in the "United Pentecostal Church International", and I have experienced all it has to "offer".  From my point of view, whether it means anything or not, the UPCI has been a great tool of "spreading the Gospel to the whole world"!  We have missionary's all over the world who have been "screened" and "passed" by the Foreign Missions Board, and when our missionary's go to the field we can have confidence that they are "good men and women of God". I know there are those who LOVE to find fault with the "way we do things", but if they have a "better way", it would be nice to know it. This "way" has been effective for many, many years, and has been successful.  

When a church "comes open" for a Pastor, when called upon, a UPCI representative will meet with the church board submitting names of those who are available to pastor, and are seeking the will of God for their life. The church will be praying and fasting for the will of God for their church, and through a process of "seeing and hearing men of God" the church can decide if they want to vote on that man or not.  When the will of God is accomplished, the church can go forward knowing they have done the right thing, and will see revival!  I think it's a pretty good system and it has worked for years!  

But, there is one thing that REALLY bothers me about the UPCI!  I hope you will hear me out!  

Because of the thousands of people all over the world who belong to our organization, there is something that really "bothers me"!  Don't stop reading now!  

UPCI, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!  We have meetings we go to where there are so many people, and there is just no way to meet them all!  Yes, we have met many through the years who are still  "acquaintances".  There are people my husband and I have spoken to through the years, but, we've  never had a chance to really "get to know them".   Yet, in some "strange way" we still feel "connected".  One of the highlights of these "great gatherings" is getting to be with our friends!  Of course, we never have enough time to be with them during our "once a year" conference.  I do want to say that if it wasn't for this special time we would very seldom get to see them. 

 Then, there is our family!  Now, that's another story.  They are spread from one ocean to the other!  Most all of them are in the ministry, licensed with the UPCI,  and their schedules are FULL, because of their church schedules, preaching engagements, and special functions of this organization!  Do we get to see them through the year?  On rare occasion.  Really, about the only time we get to be with "most of the family" is at General Conference.  We will have a "family reunion lunch", then it's over.  A few of us will get together at different times throughout the conference, but not for long!  

UPCI you have caused our PROBLEM!  YOU have given us all of these conferences, camp meetings, youth camps, rallies and sectional conferences, and made it possible for us to "MAKE FRIENDS"!  How could you do this to us?  

Don't you know it would be EASIER to stay in our own "little worlds" and not have the FRUSTRATION of wanting to be with the ones we have grown to love through the years?  Don't you know it would be EASIER if we didn't have a chance to MEET those from "other places", like Prince Edward Island, Maine, Nova Scotia, New York, California, Colorado, Africa, Europe, New Mexico, Canada, Michigan, Argentina......on and on it goes, reaching around the world!  UPCI, how could you cause us such problems?  

Soon, in just a few weeks, we will be gathering for another one of those "bothersome conferences".  We will have to schedule our times of visiting around the preaching, singing, and being in the presence of God, and worshipping with those of "like precious faith".  What a shame that you have caused us to "have to figure out a way to see all of our friends"!  But, I'm so glad you have given us this "problem"!  

I want to say THANK YOU for all the times we have been able to go, and be a part of "something bigger than our own surroundings".  THANK YOU for giving us a little taste of what Heaven will be like.  If we were living in a "perfect world" then we would never be separated from those we love.  So, one of the things I am looking forward to when I get to Heaven is, "we will never have to say goodbye to our friends and loved ones"!  

Yes, you have let us down in this "one thing", but you can't help it, and neither can we.

P.S.  I hope to see all of my "blogger friends" at conference this year!  Please, whatever you do, while you go "flying by" on your way to meet with friends, or family, just wave and say, "HI"! :) 

Special Note:  Thank you Wendell for giving me this thought today. Love you! 

 

I Have to Share

Yesterday my husband got a text message from his brother David in North Carolina.  Nathan, their son has recently taken pastorate of their church in Charlotte, and David was thrilled with what happened Sunday in their services.   Here's the part I will share:  

"Greatest REVIVAL Charlotte has ever had, happened yesterday with Nathan as Pastor!  Seven baptized!  Fifty-one (yes 51) filled with the Holy Ghost!"

He explained,  "Most of these that received the Holy Ghost, or were baptized are people who are 'Sunday morning attenders', so we already have ties with them and we are 'their church'!"

  
We were thrilled to get this report from North Carolina!  God is moving in great and mighty ways throughout the fellowship of The United Pentecostal Church, and it's exciting to be a part of it!!!!  We are living in a "great day" for our organization, and we are seeing a powerful revival among our churches, and in our districts!  Thank God for strong preacher's who preach TRUTH, and for the awesome saints that follow the Word of God that is preached from our pulpits!  

TOGETHER......we are marching like a mighty army!  The banner of Truth is waving high, and we are looking expectantly into our future!!!!  Warriors of God.......Keep Marching!  

It's RAINING!

It has been raining off and on all day long.  When we left Dallas it was raining, then it let up for awhile and we put the top down on my convertible, and enjoyed the "breeze" blowing all around us.  When we pulled into "home" it started raining again, and I don't think it has really stopped since.  I am sitting in our motorhome listening to the rain on the roof.  There's nothing like it!  It makes me want to curl up with a cozy blanket and go to sleep.  Really, I guess that's what I should do since it's almost midnight.  But, I just got an "I-M" from my sister who is having herself a "time" in California, so I think I will talk to her for a little bit, then I'll see if I'm going to bed!  

Well.....I think I am going to bed!  The rain is getting louder and louder, and it's good "sleeping weather"!   Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z......I'm already asleep at the computer, or is that my husband I hear?  LOL!  Goodnight to all!    

A Sunday "Hello"

I wanted to drop by and say hello to my friends and family. Tonight was a wonderful night in the presence of God!  We were once again at Balch Springs and we had CHURCH!  Worship and praise was heartfelt and accepted by God.  How do I know?  Because He was there!  "...where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty!"  It was wonderful!!!  At one point in the service Bro. Nathan sang the awesome song, "Through the Fire".  He was so anointed from the very beginning!  He blessed my soul as he was singing, and just about the whole church was on their feet in worship!  Then, as my husband was making some comments before preaching, a man came forward for "special prayer". When he came forward, others followed his lead and came for prayer.  We had a powerful time in the Holy Ghost!  For those who have awesome church all the time, you know of what I speak.  After the "prayer time", Wendell preached and it was incredible!  The church here LOVES preaching and they definitely "preach" with you!  It's so enjoyable!  

Have you ever been so thirsty for a drink of water that you couldn't get to a glass of water fast enough?  I have!  The same thing happens in a church when there hasn't been "fresh water" to drink.  But, when the "rain falls" those who are "thirsty" will drink it in!  There is nothing that satisfies the soul like a fresh drink of water from God!  I thank Him for visiting with us tonight. I feel refreshed in my spirit, and I hope you do too! 

I'm so glad I have all of you as "friends".  It warms my heart to know I can sit down and write on my blog, and there will be someone read it, then make a comment!  :)  I love hearing from you and love hearing what you have on your mind.  Let me encourage those of you who read, but do not leave comments, to do so.  It's not hard and I would love to hear from you!

I don't have a lot to say tonight so I will go for now.  Blessings to you all!  

Dear Anonymous

My heart was touched very deeply when I read the comment you left on "The Wonder of It All".  I am "posting it" so others will read what you said, and understand why I am writing a letter on my blog.  Your comment follows:

"I can sure relate to your post--however i am "there" right now...i can remember starting to pack for special meetings waaaaay in advance because of the excitment---BUT sometimes the hurt is so deep and wounds so large --and life has so many unfair curves till i ask myself what is the use--to just be hurt again and more dreams crushed. you know the ministry is NOT an easy path sometimes and ministers can be the most cruel to others--if your not in the circle of circles then your nobody!! When you are walked on over and over by those who only use you to get their gain --makes you want to ask why do I want to be involved in that."

Let me talk to you from my heart.  I am going to say to you just what I would say if I were talking to one of my adult children, a family member, friend, or someone in our church.  :)  I know that covers just about everyone!  I do not pretend to have all the answers, but I want to help you.  I know what I say could be taken wrong, but I will do my best to "say it right".  

I remember a time in my life that one of my friends treated me in a way that was very hurtful.  I was telling my Mother about it, and she looked at me and said, "It doesn't matter what THEY did to you.  You're not any better than they are, if you let your attitude get bad!  YOU have to be bigger than that!!!"  I thought, "Whoa!  I better get my attitude RIGHT!"   If my Mother was telling me "I was just as wrong as the person who hurt me if I got a bad attitude about it", then I knew I was wrong, and better "get right"!  It didn't feel very good when she told me that, but it has stayed with me all of my life.  Anytime I have felt like retaliating because "I had been done wrong", I hear what Mother said to me.  I'm so glad she told me the right way to react when I am hurt from someone else's actions.  It hasn't always been easy to swallow and "take it", but it's been easier knowing I HAD to keep my spirit and attitude right, so I could be SAVED!

Daddy use to say, "Linda, whatever you do,  don't ever let a root of bitterness take root in your heart.  If you do you will regret it.  Once it starts growing you can hardly get it to stop!"  I watched Daddy when he had been done wrong, and he had every right to retaliate, but he didn't. The last time I talked to him before he died he said to me and my sisters, "Girls, when I'm gone, if anyone wants to know how I was doing, tell them that ALL was well."  I stood there as I listened to him talk and realized I was listening to a man who had kept his spirit cleansed from bitterness!  

I do not know "who" you are, but I do know you are a "hurting"individual.  You probably "know" all the answers to your situation, yet, when you're hurting it's hard to see through the fog that has surrounded your mind.  God does not want you to keep these hurts in your heart and mind, BUT you must be WILLING to release them and let them GO!  You are making a CHOICE everyday.  You choose to "hold on" or "let go" of the hurts that plague your life. People are going to disappoint you.  That is inevitable!!  It doesn't matter "who" they are. There is only ONE who is perfect and He was "taken away" to go prepare us a place"!  This brings to mind the other thing I was taught.  "Keep your eyes on JESUS!"  When we get our eyes on "people" they will disappoint us!  Look to JESUS!  I know it sounds easier than it is at times, but we CHOOSE what we want to do with our heart! 

Why do people want to be in the "circle of circles"?  Who determines who the "circle of circles" is?  Does it really matter?  If you "belong" to this "circle" is it going to make your life that much better?  I determined a long time ago that I was going to live life, be friends with anyone that will be my friend, and not worry about those who seem to be in "the circle".  I find much happiness and contentment in "being me" and "loving everyone".  We all have friends who we seem to click with, so find friends you can enjoy. Make new friends!  Sometimes you will be disappointed if you get inside "the circle".  It's not near as glamorous and it seems from the "outside looking in".

You mentioned that people "used you, then walked all over you".  I don't really know how to answer this without sounding harsh.  But again, YOU have to be the one to stop being used!  It's a choice YOU must make!  Don't hang around people that take advantage of you.  If you are taken advantage of,  then cut all ties!  A true "friend" would never do anything to hurt you, or "use you for their advantage", or "walk all over you".

Mom Elms was an incredible lady!  She loved God with all her heart.  Her pastor used her at times to counsel women of the church, because she was full of wisdom.  Oh how I miss her! One day while driving she was hit by a motorcycle policeman, and she suffered a broken ankle.  We watched as she suffered with the "wound" that was made when her ankle bone came through her skin.  Over a period of many months the doctor would check this sore on Mom's ankle, and it got larger and larger!  It was not a pretty sight.  In fact, it was so bad that it would almost nauseate me.  (I would never make a good nurse.)  Month after month went by and the sore did not heal.  To make a long story short, the doctor eventually had to amputate Mom's leg!  In someone who is healthy, the sore would have healed and everything would have been fine, but Mom had diabetes and because of this terrible "disease" her body would not heal itself!

Bitterness is a disease and if it is not taken out of the heart it will eventually cause you to "amputate yourself" from the body of Christ!  I know you want to do what's right.  I know you've been hurt.  I know all of the terrible feelings that can come up and blind you from what you "know" to do.  But, whatever wrong has been done to you, it's not worth the "sore" that is staying open in your heart.  The thing about holding onto this "hurt" is that it will destroy you and those closest to you!  This "thing" will make the rest of your life miserable if you do not have your heart mended by the Heart Mender!  And remember....life isn't always FAIR!

In church Sunday night I heard a song I had not heard in many years.  It touched my heart once again and reminded me "I have a long way to go to be like the Lord".  The words that really stood out to me were these:

I don't remember trudging up a rugged hill with a cross upon my back.

I don't recall a crown of thorns placed upon my brow, now that I look back.

I've never been spit upon, ridiculed, wounded in my side.

Life's no bed of roses, but still I am alive.

I have a long way to go, just to be like the Lord.

Forgiveness was taught to us by Jesus Christ.  If HE could forgive after those He loved mocked Him, spit on Him, slapped Him, pierced His side, placed a crown of thorns on His head, and whipped Him tearing His flesh until he was "unrecognizable",  then you can forgive those who have done you wrong.  Please take it to Him in prayer.  YOU do what's right and God will take care of the rest.   

I hope I have said something that will help you through this terrible time in your life.  I feel so helpless in my feeble words.  There are so many things that could be said, and so many people who could do a much better job at "helping you", but I know it's not me or anyone else who can heal your heart.  I simply ask you to "take it to Jesus" and you and Him work it out!   I have prayed for you today, and will continue to pray that you will find peace and rest in knowing you have done what's right.  I leave you with a song that is my heartbeat.

For above all else......I MUST be saved!  

For above all else......I MUST be saved!

Whatever You have to do to me,

Don't let me be lost for eternity!

For above all else......I MUST be saved!

Please let me know how you are doing.  Someday, in not too distant future, I plan on meeting you on the other side.  You can look for me "in front of the throne".  Blessings to you as you make your journey back to "the wonder of it all".

Sincerely.....Your "blogger" friend!

The Wonder of It All

I really need to be going into town to take care of a few things, but I had to stop and write what's on my heart and mind today.  Let me clarify that what I am going to say does not come from any "happenings" lately.  I've just been thinking about this for awhile. I am now "older" and have "lived enough life" to understand a few things.  I am writing to those my age, of which I'm sure you can figure out “my age” pretty close.  After all, I AM a grandmother of four, and a mother of two sons who are preacher's of the Gospel, so that qualifies me for being "old".  :)

I have been to Fellowship Meetings, Youth Rallies, All-night Youth Lock-ins, Youth Camps, Camp Meetings, District Conferences, and General Conferences as long as I can remember!  I guess you could say, "I've done it all" when it comes to being involved and attending our organizational "functions".  I will be very honest with you, and probably a little too transparent when I say there was a time I felt the "wonder of it all" start to wane.  I understand there are "seasons" in life we go through that can affect our emotions, and the way we view things.  Through all of the years of "situations" that brought on grief,  questioning where God was in "all of this", and wondering "why" He had let my life become peppered with death and sorrow, I became tired, irritable at times, and empty, because I felt like I had "given" all I could give!  I know!  I know!  There are people right now catching their breath, because you can't imagine someone could feel this way.  If you can’t believe it, then hear me out.  Before I had gone through much of life, and I still felt the excitement of all the events that we attended, I didn't understand either.  Now that I'm on the "other side" I can see clearer as I look back.

Why am I saying all of this today?  My mind has been bothered that as we get older, if we're not careful, we will lose the "wonder of it all".  No, not necessarily the "wonder of God", but the "wonder of the things of God and unity” we have known as we’ve come together in our respective sections, districts, and on a general level.  I have said and heard said, "Oh, I don't want to go to conference this year!" (or whatever is happening)  In fact, I said it just last year.  I didn't go, and wished a million times I had gone after my husband left. I will admit I enjoyed the live services via internet. I sat in my easy chair at home, in my comfortable robe, and drank in the preaching, singing and power of God, but, I also felt the void of not getting to see my family, friends, and people of “like precious faith”. That special time together could impact my life, if I allowed it to! My heart has always wanted to be involved in the work of God, and I don't want to lose “my first love”. What would I do if I didn’t have “my church”, “my organization”, and "my friends”? Where could I go that would bring as much happiness as I’ve had all of my life?

As a child, teenager, and young adult, you couldn't put enough obstacles in my way to keep me from going to whatever might be happening around me.  You must remember that was before all the extra conferences that have come along in the last several years.  Now, you can't go to everything that's happening or you would never be home.  When all we had was our "major functions" there was an excitement about "getting to go" that I will never forget!  My insides got excited as I started packing for the "big event"! When I started feeling "nonchalant" about being involved in God's Kingdom, I started getting worried about ME.  

When you're feeling physically sick, you know when you need to go to the doctor.  You also know the symptoms of when you start getting "spiritually sick"!  When symptoms start showing signs of "disease" we need to get ourselves to the Doctor and ask Him to "heal our heart".  I have seen those who withdraw themselves from the "body",  for whatever reason, and it has always scared me when I felt or saw them as they “nursed a grudge”, was "too tired to be there", or “too busy”. After awhile they fell into the "SNARE of ISOLATION"!  When the doctor isolates a sick person, it's because they are contagious!  When a person "isolates themselves" it's usually because there is a "spiritual problem" and they haven't dealt with it, yet!  I am not condemning anyone, I just know what I know, and I was almost a victim to that horrible trap.  Whenever I started feeling like I didn't "want to be with anyone" I knew something was wrong with ME!  My heart cried out, "Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit in me...cast me not away from Your presence"!

I am concerned when men and women start losing their "wonder" for the things of God.  When we lose our "wonder" it affects our children and grandchildren.  Let me ask a question.....Who kept the "wonder" alive for us when WE were teenagers and young preachers, and preacher's wives?  There were those who always talked about how wonderful it was going to be to "get to go" to conference, camp meeting, youth camp, the rally, and fellowship meeting!  I remember my parents preparing to leave for one of these functions, and how excited we all would be as they talked about what was going to be happening.  They passed the excitement down to me and I couldn't wait to get dressed to go with them.   There were occasions, such as General Conference that we didn't go until we were old enough to enjoy them, but I couldn't wait for Mother and Daddy to get home, because they would bring me gifts from conference, and also bring home new "records" (projects for those in the younger generation) of the singers, quartets, and trio's that sung in the services.  They would tell us about the "deep conviction" that fell when a man of God was preaching.  Oh, there were so many things to hear about!

WHO is going to keep the "wonder of it all" going for OUR sons, daughters, and grandchildren if we don't?  They shouldn't have to carry the whole load!  They are looking to us for their example.  I know, they are grown, they may be a pastor, or assisting in a church, or maybe they are evangelizing. Maybe they are good saints involved in the church, but wherever they are, whatever they're doing, they are looking to us.  If Mom and Dad lose "the wonder of it all", how long do you think it will take them to do the same?

I have emptied my heart for right now.  I hope I have helped someone who has been watching as their dreams seem to be fading into the horizon.  Maybe you have not seen them come to pass, and you are plagued with failure, and disappointments.  Maybe you have lost sight of the future, and the excitement for the work of God.  Maybe you can’t see the "big picture" because of a hurt that has come your way.  SHAKE IT OFF!  You don't want to "ride off into the sunset" defeated.  You must pick up and keep "running this race".  At the end of the race is when we can stop, sit down, and rest a little while.  Come On!  Let's get our FERVOR back for the work of God!  Let's get our EXCITEMENT back when it's time to be with each other!  We've got kids and grandkids who want to be involved in a church that is full of EXCITEMENT, POWER, and WONDER!   We are the ones that can give them what they long for!!  No one else can do it like we can!

Special note:  You know I love every one of you.  You are my friends and family.  If I have opened my heart for all to see, and it will help someone who is struggling, that's all that matters.  A few times while writing this post I thought about not pushing the little "orange button" that says, "Publish Post", but I am compelled in my spirit to go ahead and do it.  I hope if you've never been where I've been, and seen what I've seen, then you will never have to face the giant of "isolation", for it is one that is hard to fight if it ever takes root in your heart.  As the end of time comes closer let's support and love one another like never before!  I need you, and you need me.  Not that I am anything, but when we all "pull together" how happy we'll be! 

 

Catching Up

As everyone else...we've been busy, busy, busy! I think that is the "end-time" word. "Busy" is the word I hear a LOT when I talk to others! "Busy" doesn't necessarily mean that you've been doing something that HAD to be done, it just means, "I've been doing a lot of things". :) You know, like having fun with the kids and grandkids! That's the "kind of busy" I LIKE!

Last Friday, Jonathan and Brenda came to see us. They needed some time off with the girls, and I think they KNEW we NEEDED to see them. We had a wonderful time with the kids here. I found out real fast that I don't need a house to have fun in. Don't get me wrong, I WANT a house so we can spread out, but I don't HAVE TO HAVE ONE to have FUN! You'll see what I mean in the slideshow.

Last week we also had the MAP Committee Meetings, and we were privileged to be part of them. We had a wonderful time! A lot of discussion, reflection, and decisions were being made for the next MAP Seminar in January. If you want to know more about MAP you may go here. I was asked to teach three classes this next time, and I am really looking forward to it. I can't believe I am saying that, but I really am. After our meeting I got out my notes from when I taught "PrimeLife" at our church, and felt a stirring to teach once again. I actually felt an excitement!

Before our meetings began last week, we went to Ralph and Kaccoo's for lunch. (By the way, for all of you who miss Cattle Company here in Lufkin, they have a "Texas Menu" at Ralph and Kaccoo's that comes from the "Cattle Company" menu and recipes. And...their bread is DELICIOUS!) Well, I got sidetracked for sure, so back to what I was saying. We were sitting at our table and saw Bro. and Sis. Carlton Watkins come in, so we invited them to have lunch with us. We had a wonderful time visiting, and discussing things that were of interest to us. We have been in the same district for years and to my recollection this is the first time we have had fellowship with each other. Yes, we have spoken, and said all the "greetings", but never got passed the "hello's", "God bless", and "good-bye's". I can say I feel like we have made some new friends!

I look forward to some more "times of fellowship" with these good people. We also had some extra time with the McLaughlin's after dinner that night, and nearly talked our heads off! :) They are wonderful to be with!

I've been thinking about "friends and acquaintances" a lot lately. We have been in the Texas District for about 30 years, but since moving to Lufkin we almost feel like we are in a NEW DISTRICT! The place of our calling before coming here was many miles away from the "hub" of things. Now that we are re-located to this area we have found out there are so many preachers and wives that we have only "heard of" through the years, yet not met. There are so many towns back in the "Piney-woods of Texas" that we have never heard of, and there are churches in these towns! Please don't anyone feel bad at my "lack of knowledge". What I am saying is that we are thoroughly enjoying learning about these places, and now have the privilege of enjoying time with "new friends". We feel so blessed to have this opportunity!

In our travels I have sensed a great love for God, and for His Kingdom in the hearts of our ministers and wives here in Texas. They are wanting the best for the Texas District. They want their churches to grow and their people to be blessed! They don't want the world and all that it holds. They want to be a separated people to the glory of God, not for men's applause. If I am "dreaming" then let me "dream on". I choose to believe a "good report".

My husband and I have talked about our churches, and the way they do things. It's interesting to see how they "get the same thing done" through different methods. We have been in many services filled with worship, singing, and praises of God's people, and even in the diverse ways of each congregation we have experienced mighty moves of the Holy Ghost! When we come together in UNITY and PURPOSE, bringing praise to God for all He has done, and for "Who" He is, He can't help but come to us!

TEXAS is a GREAT DISTRICT and I can feel God's love in His people everywhere we go! TEXAS is moving forward in REVIVAL and GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING! I don't have any "doom and gloom" reports. I'm hearing a lot about REVIVAL and SOULS being saved. We are in a great harvest, and I'm glad to be part of it! TEXAS DISTRICT you have a lot to be thankful for. REJOICE and BE GLAD!

Note: To all those who are not part of our district, please forgive me for focusing on "us" in this post. I just had some things I wanted to say to those we are connected to. Thank you for understanding and rejoicing with us.

The Teeter-Totter

When I went to bed last night my mind started wandering. This happens a lot when I'm trying to go to sleep! I focused on what was running through my brain, and was surprised to see what it was! LOL! I know that sounds a little crazy, but so be it. That's what seemed to happen, and this is what it was.

I LOVE to ride the "Teeter-Totter"! Some may call it a "Seesaw", but whatever each person calls it, really doesn't matter for my "point". When I was a little girl, this piece of equipment in the playground is the first place I would run to whenever I had the chance. I know I'm way to OLD and GROWN-UP to go to the park and ride the "Teeter-Totter", but there are still times I feel that same sensation I felt as a child. "Up-down, high-low, up-down, high-low, up-down, high-low"!!! Remember? I loved the thrill of being high in the air, and dropping to the ground...back up in the air, drop to the ground! Oh how my mind races to the times this happened over and over and over again! Occasionally, there would be a bigger kid come along and ask if I wanted to "seesaw", and I would be so excited thinking I was going to get to "ride again". I was in for a rude awakening! They would get on one end, me on the other, and at first it was a wonderful ride, then all of sudden I would be slammed to the ground, because they decided to get off without warning me! There was always someone around who liked to "scare" me, too. They would come along and hold their side DOWN so that I couldn't get off of the "teeter-totter". No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't make it go down....the BIG BULLY! LOL!

All those times I rode the "teeter-totter" I never one time thought about the piece in the middle that BALANCED the "teeter-totter". You know, there had to be a mighty STRONG piece of metal that stayed in one spot to hold up the middle, so that we could all have fun riding "up and down, up and down, up and down". This one piece of structure never wavered one way or the other! Of course, I have no idea how "teeter-totters" are built, but in my imagination I would think this "plank of steel" down in the earth is surrounded by a lot of cement. I don't know, but something down deep in the ground is holding it and making it stable!!!

There are a lot of people in my life. I have been blessed to have them as a stabilizing force. I have been in "the Church" all of my life, and in this "great organization" we are a part of. I can say I've been "blessed beyond measure" to have those around me who "stabilized" my life.

In this "world of mine" there has always been people who have "seen things different" than the way I see them. I don't like, and never have liked the terms "liberal" and "conservative". I am not blind to the fact, nor is my head in the sand when it comes to those who do not "line up" to what I believe. Now, I am not "tootin' my own horn", nor am I condemning those who do differently than me. My whole point is, that I want to be someone who is BALANCED in my walk with God, and my lifestyle. I believe in holiness! I don't think anyone can be "too holy"! Holiness is an attribute of God, and if I can be close to "HIM", and pleasing to "HIM" I know my "outer person" will be PLEASING to Him, also!

I love the "lifestyle" that I live! I love "separation" from the world! I can honestly say there is nothing "out there" that I want or want to do! I'm HAPPY where I'm at! I'm thankful for those who have taught me, and who continue to preach and teach "separation" and who teach and preach it from a loving, humble, heart!

There are those who live stricter than I do, and there are those who live "less strict" than I do. There are those who CAN'T DO ANYTHING, and there are those who DO MOST ANYTHING! My concern is neither place. What they do, or don't do is not my business. I would love it if EVERYONE was on the SAME PAGE, but I guess we would call this life "heaven" if that were to be the case. What I want to be, and what I want others to be, is pleasing to God!

I have sat with those who I thought were more strict in their lifestyle, and looked into their eyes as we talked, and I have found out that if they are doing their best to please GOD and not MEN, they have a beautiful spirit about them. I can feel their love towards me and others who may not see their point of view. They may be on one end of the "teeter-totter", but they won't SLAM the person on the other end to the ground, or leave them high in the air! They are merciful, long-suffering, and care for those who are on the opposite side from them.

I don't know if I'm making sense. I could keep rambling and get deeper and deeper in this maze I'm in, but I KNOW WHAT I'M TRYING TO SAY! I hope you do, too! :)

God Bless AMERICA!

My husband sent this to me and I HAD to share it with you all! I know you will love it!

I LOVE AMERICA!

Back Home!

Whew! We have arrived back home! Saturday we left for Dallas area to be with the church in Balch Springs. We had a wonderful time with the saints, and had incredible church! We enjoyed fellowship with them and was treated like royalty! I cannot tell you how wonderful the service was, and how God did something special in all of our hearts. Let me say, just in case someone reads my blog from there:).... THANK YOU! I would also like to say a great big thank you to Chris and Shelly for taking such good care of us. We love ya'll! It was good seeing Rachel (Wendell's cousin).

While there, I got to visit with some of my family for a little while. It was so good seeing them! Ginger, Carmen, Brook, Pierce, and Layne...I love you all! It was so much fun seeing the boys and they are SO CUTE! Shara and Jimmy could not come because of drama practice, so maybe next time I will be able to see them.

We left Monday and made a FAST RUN to Wichita Falls. We needed to pick some things up, so we went to our house to do that. Gene and Karla are living there until we sell it, so we all felt a little "strange" when we arrived! :) I rang the door-bell (of course) and Chad opened the door with Gene right behind him. Karla and Cameron came around the corner, and I heard Karla say, "This feels really weird!" LOL! I knew exactly how she felt! LOL! Even though we all felt a little "misplaced" we had a great time visiting with them. Someday our houses will sell and they will be able to buy their own home, and we will be able to buy a home here! :) How is it that "life" can get so "mixed up", yet feel so "right"? I think that is a question I will ask God when I get on the other side. LOL!

After going to eat at HUNAN'S (ummmm...good!) and explaining to them why we moved away, and "yes" we miss them, we went to the church to see the remodeling that is taking place in the Pastor's office. It looks like it's going to be really nice, and I'm anxious to see the finished product. Karla, the boys and I stayed for Praise Group practice, and it was wonderful seeing everyone that I worked so close with in the Music Ministry at home. They are absolutely some of the MOST talented people I know, and I LOVE hearing them sing and play! Ya'll are AWESOME!!!!! I will ALWAYS love you MORE than you know!

On Tuesday, we drove back to Dallas and met Andrew, Mandy, Alayna and Ashlyn. They are there "vacationing" for a few days. Oh, how my arms were aching to hold the girls and hug Andrew and Mandy. We had such a nice time being with them for several hours. We spent time as "family" and there is nothing that can take that kind of "time" away. I miss them SO MUCH that it hurts sometimes, so when we have the chance to see them we take advantage of it.

We are now back in Lufkin, and business has been going strong since we arrived. :) Maybe I should say, "my husband is BUSY"! LOL! I am too, but not near as much as he is.

Tomorrow we have a very important meeting to be at, so I wanted to get this post made so I wouldn't be worrying about it. Now, that's taking "blogging to heart" when you can't relax knowing you haven't made a post in several days! Oh well, it's something I enjoy and really miss when I'm not able to sit down and write.

I trust you are all doing well! I hope to hear from everyone in the Comments section. I LOVE my FRIENDS!

Interesting Day

I'm almost too tired to post tonight, but before going to bed, I want to say just a little about our last couple of days.

Last night we went to Brenda's Surprise 30th Birthday Party at their church. She was really surprised when after prayer meeting she was taken to the Parlor where there was cake, punch, gifts and friends to wish her a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! We got there just a tiny bit later. When we walked in, we walked up behind her, and when she turned to see who was touching her shoulders she let out a squeal of happiness! :) It was wonderful! She almost cried, but held back the tears. We spent the rest of the night and today with them.

She was so surprised and happy to see us!

Rachel was so happy to surprise "her Sis. Elms"!
Pastor Elms showing the Hughes "special memories"!
Scarlet was asleep and we woke her up! She said, "Hi, Mimi. Where's Papa?" I loved it! As you can see, "Papa" was happy to see her. Messed up hair and all! :) This evening, when we left Jonathan and Brenda's, we went to Newton to a "Family and Friends Visitation" for Sis. Moorman who had passed away earlier this week. While speaking with her husband, he told us that he was one of the men who served on the committee for choosing the land for our beautiful camp ground here in Lufkin. He was quite an interesting man and very well educated! I'm sure he could tell us a lot of interesting stories from the past.

I also spoke with Bro. and Sis. Perdue, retired missionaries to Colombia. We renewed some memories. At the General Conference a few years ago Bro. Haney had a service called, "Passing the Mantle". It was during the prayer time that Bro. Haney had the Elder ministers to find a young man and pray for him, and "pass the mantle" of anointing on to him. When Bro. Perdue turned to "find that young man", Andrew, our son, was standing there, so he prayed for him. The neat thing about this is, Bro. and Sis. Orange and their family have been very good friends with this wonderful man and his wife, and Bro. Perdue was very happy to be praying for one of his friends "sons".

Then, I met a lady who's husband had passed away 3 months ago, and she was telling me about when her and her husband went to Great Falls, Montana and started a church MANY years ago! The challenges they faced and the victories they won were awesome, and as she spoke you could see the excitement of working for God. She said with feeling, "That church is still going today", and I felt her love for the ministry they had put into the work in Montana. Today, I was standing in the midst of "warriors of the cross"! There were more stories she told, and I encouraged her to "tell her story" so it can be preserved for generations to come!

One of the other people I talked with was somewhere around my age, and as we visited I knew I was speaking to someone who loves the truth and loves the heritage he has been given. We spoke of what it means to be a part of a great organization where there are people who love God, love each other, and give comfort and care to those who are "going through their valley". I could feel a loyalty to the things of God, and to those who have given us this Truth, and a group of ministers and wives who are "pulling together" for unity.

When we walked into the room FULL of people we did not know, I wondered who I was going to talk to. I asked myself how I was suppose to "be comfortable" in the midst of all of these people? I had already made up my mind, before getting to our destination, that I was going to be friendly, smile, speak to people, and make myself available to whoever might be looking my way. I was not disappointed in the response I received! In fact, I can say....I've had a very interesting day!

Here is a picture to bring you a smile. I guess this is the new way to "carry" your book when you get tired of holding it! :)
Thank you, Bro. Randy Hughes for a great idea!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRENDA!

Today is Brenda's ____th birthday! I want to say to her that she is lovely "inside and out"! Brenda, you have been all a sons father and mother could ever hope for. I'm glad Jonathan chose you for his wife. You have not disappointed us at all!!! Your #1 quality is your love for God and the things of God. You love Him more than anything in this world, and it is seen by those around you. Your love for your husband and girls is beautiful! Thank you for loving our son as you do, and THANK YOU for giving us some gorgeous granddaughters!!!! Dad and I love you more than we can express. Thank you for loving us! Also, thank you for being a wonderful Pastor's Wife. The saints of The Apostolic Church are always telling Dad and me how much they love you. Thank you for showing all of us how to walk with the Lord. No one could ever have a better example of how a true Christian is suppose to live. Have a wonderful birthday, a year filled with the greatness of God, and days filled with love from your family, church family and friends!