KAREN'S FAMILY OF ORIGIN

The following are pictures of Karen's mother and her siblings along with four generations. These were made during Christmas of 2005. My picture posting has been on hold for technical reasons for some time until a few weeks ago. Thats why these are on so late. Karen has one sibling, Jackie, who passed on into heaven at a very young age. The order of the pictures is not the order of age. The age order is Jimmy, Lenda, Raymond, Steven and Karen. Karen's father passed on into heaven in 1994. We love you each of you.

Paul Edward Tyler and Rosa Lee (Edgin) Tyler in the late 1970's.

Karen's next to oldest brother, Raymond and his wife Jennie.
Karen's youngest brother Steven and his wife Beth.
Karen's older sister, Lenda and her husband Ronnie.
Karen's oldest brother, Jimmy and his wife Reva.
Four generations: Front Row: Karen's Mother, Rosa Lee (Edgin) Tyler, Back Row: L-R, Karen Diane (Tyler) Gordon, Aviana Shalee (Gordon) Holman and Sarah Lenae (Gordon) Holman.

Karen Diane (Tyler) Gordon and husband Milton.

HOUSEHOLD IDOLS

by Bob Hostetler

Many fine Christian families today are in a situation like Jacob’s when he left Paddan Aram. God told Jacob to leave the land of his father-in-law, Laban, and return to his ancestral home (Genesis 31:3). So Jacob made his escape. But his caravan included cargo Jacob didn’t know about: Laban’s household gods, secretly taken by Jacob’s wife Rachel (Genesis 31:19). God had blessed Jacob, and God was preparing him for yet greater things. But pagan idols had slipped into Jacob’s household.

So it is in many of our homes today. We haven’t turned our backs on God; we haven’t stopped worshiping Him or enjoying His favor. Nonetheless, idols have been brought into our households.

Read the article here

YESTERDAYS UPDATE, TODAY & TONIGHT & PRAYER REQUESTS - BIKES ANYONE?

I saw Sister Lillie Grooms at Wal-Mart yesteday as I was getting some things for Mr. Bateman. She is requesting prayer. Her heart races and she is very short of breath. Lets pray for Sister Lillie.

Today has been another day of study and doing monthly and quarterly reports for much of the morning.

I visited with Mr. Harold Bateman this afternoon, who is the gentleman that I met in the hospital. He is very interested in our church and says he has known the Lord for some time. He does not drive and needed a ride to his home in Prosser to get some things including his Bible and the 2006 World Almanac. A very nice gentleman who desires our prayers for his health. He has severe asthma. He was very happy to be on our prayer list. He is continuing in the Huntingdon Health and Rehab Center.

For several weeks I have been talking to Karen about doing something together that would include exercise and fellowship for both of us. About a week ago I mentioned getting bikes to ride. Karen was for it. Late this evening we went to Wal-Mart and bought bikes. I rode mine home since there was not enough room in the car for both. The two mile trip was an eye-opener. Wow, my legs burned and ached but I think it is the beginning of a great time of exercise and fellowship for both of us.

After we got home, I grilled some burgers and chops on our little charcoal grill and we enjoyed a meal with maters, lettuce, onions, pinto beans from the crock pot, corn bread and green tomato chow chow, etc.

We then went on a short ride up the road. Karen said, "I did not know how out of shape I was until trying to ride just a few hundred yards." Well, lets hope we both get in better shape physically and especially in growth spiritually in relationship to the Lord Jesus.

As John Denver sang, "thank God I'm a country boy." God bless. Good night.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Have you ever thought about your leadership point of view? How do you view the role of leader, and what do you think are a leader’s responsibilities?

Read more Lead Like Jesus

LOCAL LEADERS

As of this past Sunday all local leadership positions are open. The only one that will continue at this time is Sister Cathy Coleman as secretary/clerk/treasurer. She volunteered and felt led of the Lord to labor in this ministry after Sister Rita Moore resigned. After prayer and counsel she was appointed by the pastor and affirmed and accepted by the local church in business session.

We are in prayer seeking the Lord's will for each ministry in the local church. God will place each one in the local ministry as He has gifted each one and knows the willingness and availability of each one. It is time to seek the Lord for His guidance, favor and blessing in each one's ministry - from teaching, to serving, to giving, to helping, to every type of ministry that God places in the body.

Romans 12:4-6a For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us. . .

1 Cor. 12:28 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

Ephesians 4:7-11 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers. . .

TODAY & TONIGHT

Today began with quiet time and devotion. The hospital visits were rewarding as I visited with patients, encouraged each of them and prayed with several.
I also had opportunity to visit with the man who I did some benevolent ministry to on Monday. He is now in the Rehab Center. He called today and asked for another visit. Thank God for opening the door to minister to this man. He is one of billions of God's souls and is loved by God as much as anyone else. Much of this morning and part of the afternoon was doing Vol. Chaplain ministry.

I finalized some notes (outline) for the study tonight on the book of Galatians. The prayer time and bible study went well tonight. The Holy Spirit broke in as each one shared their needs and burdens. There was a time of ministry to each other as the Holy Spirit moved among us and tears came forth from those who are seeking grace and encourgement in burdens they have and needs they have. Much of the time tonight was in prayer and ministry of the Holy Spirit - for which we thank and praise the Lord. The study in Galatians was very lively as each one discussed, asked questions and shared their comments. Thank God for salvation by "grace through faith in Jesus Christ." Thank God for this great book of the Bible along with the other 65 books.

Galatians 2:20, 21 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain."

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - Lighten Up with Ken Davis

Scroll down the page and listen to the days you wish hear. All are very good, most with humor but each has a very poignant point relative to daily Christian living. The July 4th message is especially inspirational.

Scroll down, click on the media player you wish and the date you wish to hear. Click on the archive button to hear previous posts. You have to click on the media player under the archive date to hear the post.

Lighten Up

PRAYER

Father I come today offering praise, honor and worship to You, through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for Who You are and all You do. I ask today for grace through the power of the Holy Spirit to minister in the hospital as I visit today. I ask for you presence as I go to each patient's room. Bless the physicians, the nurses and all the staff at the hospital, I pray. Please touch and minister to the gentleman that asked for prayer the other day. I pray for our leaders in this country and for the leaders in our church organization and all leaders in churches and countries throughout the world. Make us strong in You and in the power of Your might. Deliver us from the pride of this world and drown us in your humility. Make temptation our stepping-stone to higher heights and deeper depths in You. Thank You for the rest we have been given in you Son, Jesus. Sharpen my witness, my boldness for You and increase my passion for the lost so that I can share the gospel with any who need the Savior and Lord today. This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it through Jesus Christ - the same yesterday, today and for ever. AMEN!

TODAY

This has been a very busy day but a very rewarding day as a Pastor. Today began early as Karen and I prepared for the wedding ceremony (10 am) and reception (1 pm) of Don VanMeter and Kathy Boone. The wedding went well and reception was very nice. (Pictures to follow)

We then left for a visit with the Reynolds and the Riveras who had invited us a few weeks ago to come to Piney Campground (Land Between the Lakes) to enjoy the 4th with them and watch the fireworks from Paris landing. Today was Brother Paul Riveras birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! (Pictures to follow)

We enjoyed the cookout with roasted corn in the shucks on the grill, hamburgers, miniature steaks, beans and all the rest. The German Chocolate birthday cake was great! The fireworks began and were nice but a shower and God's fireworks (lightning and thunder) interrupted for some time. We left the campground at about 9:30 and headed back to Huntingdon.

Its almost "sack" time. God bless and we love and pray for the church, community, members and friends of the church here. Good night.

WEDDING AND RECEPTION PICTURES - Mr. and Mrs. Don VanMeter

The Happy Couple. . . .

The symbols of our love and commitment. . .

"The wedding cake is delicious Kathy and it smells good too!"

Don, "Did you get enough wedding cake? I have some extra if you want it.

INDEPENDENCE DAY, JULY 4TH

The Declaration of Independence

Star Spangled Banner

The Pledge of Allegiance

TODAY & TONIGHT

Today has been intermittently busy. This is my week to do Volunteer Chaplain work at the local Baptist Memorial Hospital. I visited and prayed with several this morning and also had my first part of the yearly TB testing done. One man needed some things from town and I was able to do some benevolent ministry and also the door opened to witness the man. He ask for the name and location of my church and my phone number. His name cannot be listed because of Federal regulations but he is requesting prayer - God knows him. I came home ate lunch and napped a while and studied much of the afternoon and worked on my monthly ministers report some.

Tonight from 7-9 pm was the rehearsal for the Wedding Ceremony for Don and Kathy. The rehearsal lasted from 7-8:30 and then Brother Don took us all out to eat at Wendy's. THANK YOU, Brother Don.

The pictures below are of the bride, groom, best man, and maid of honor and those who are helping with the wedding along with some of the floral decor.

Front Row. Tristen, Kathys grandson, Back Row left to right: The Best Man, Don Reindl and Maid of Honor Donna Reindl, The Bride, Kathy Boone and the Groom, Don VanMeter.

Sister Gordon, the sound person.

Brother Stanley Reynolds the camera person.

The floral centerpiece.

Sister Judy Reynolds - the floral arrangements person.

PRAYER REQUEST

Sister Debbie Eaton called today and requested prayer for her mother who has been diagnosed with cancer. The doctor's say it is very serious. Lets pray for this family and for Sister Debbie's mother.

ANOTHER GREAT SUNDAY

Thank God for another great day in the Lord. We were greatly blessed by the Lord's presence. We thank God for three new visitors this morning.

God was very present in our worship tonight. We praised and gave worship to God.

Pictures of some who were present tonight.
Leading worship.
Happy couple, Leon and Susie Reynolds.
Loving Daughter and Mother, Cathy Coleman and Sister Lawrence.
Singing praises to the King of Kings.

The message. . . .

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT

Don VanMeter and Kathy Boone wish to announce their Wedding Ceremony for July 4th at 10 am at the Huntingdon Church of God of Prophecy sanctuary. The reception will be at their house in Martin at 1 pm.

UPDATE - FAMILY VISIT

Aviana

KEYANTE'

Karen, Jason and I enjoyed being with Sarah, Chris, Aviana and Keyante' for the past 2 1/2 days. We enjoyed playing with our grandchildren. We had a good time Friday night with a few fireworks. It was fun to watch the children as they danced with the sparklers and watched the bottle rockets, etc. They have two new additions to their family - 2 boxer puppies. Bella is 3 months old and very active. Tito is 2 months old and even more active. They plan to raise boxers and sell them. They have already been offered twice the amount than what they paid for Tito. We had fun playing with them, Aviana and Keyante'.

I also went by and checked on our house there. The Cook family who rents the house have been very good at paying their rent and say they want to stay as long as they can.

We left for home around 10 am and I drove all the way while Karen and Jason snored. It was funny listening to them. It was almost like a contest to see who was the loudest. I think Karen won. I did call and talk to my Mother for about 45 minutes as I traveled. I always enjoy getting to talk with Mom. She is one of my heroes.

We arrived home around 12:30 pm. We unloaded and started some household chore. I worked on notes for the Sunday morning message and studied.

COMING SOON: MEET MINE AND KAREN'S FAMILY OF ORIGIN

MORE FAMILY PICTURES

"How many kitties can I hold, Mommie? Tito says, "Give me one."

Bella says, "I'm the boss here Tito and you better not forget it!"

Chris and Sarah enjoying their outdoor swing.

UPDATE

I spoke to Siste Jennie Sanders and she says that she is amazed at how much better her eyes are and that she is having little to no discomfort. We thank God for his love and care of His children.

Karen, Jason and I (along with our guest Stacy Long) left for Camp Hickory Hills later this morning. We met Stacy's wife, Darlene, in Dickson, TN. Sister Darlene reported that the camp was GREAT! We enjoyed Stacy's visit and pray for this family as they continue to serve the Lord.

We then left for Manchester to visit with our Daughter, Sarah, and her family. I also have to take care of some business in Manchester while I am there.

We passed through Nashville and stopped for lunch at good old Burger King and then on to my daughters by 3 pm. Our visit has been great. I am in the library in Manchester and have to go for now.

I pray for the members and friends of the church in Huntingdon. We love them very much.

Thanks for stopping by and God bless. . . .

WELCOME MESSAGE

NEW AUDIO POSTING TRIAL RUN

MINISTRY HELPS

Burn-Out: Some helpful thoughts about ministry and burn-out in

"Death_By_Ministry" By Mark Driscoll

UPDATE - JENNIE SANDERS

Sister Jennie Sanders came through her eye surgery doing fine. She has some soreness and some blurred vision but the doctor says she will be much better after a few days healing process. The surgery was for glaucoma and the surgery went real well according to the doctor's report. We thank God for this. Sister Jennie is a precious lady who we love very much. She is one of the prayer warriors of the church and has been a faithful Christian and member of the church for many years. We love you very much Sister Jennie!

TONIGHT'S SERVICE

Tonight we will continue in prayer and studying the book of Galatians.

We are also continuing this week in our North American prayer and fasting time for the General Assembly to convene August 21-27 in Nashville, TN at the Gaylord Entertainment Center.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Some people think leadership is all about the visionary role while management is about implementation. . . . .

More here. . . .

PRAYER REQUEST

Bishop H. Wayne Hall's mother passed away this week and we are praying for the family. Karen and I will be sending our condolences to the family. We appreciate Bishop Hall and his family very much. I have been a close friend of Bishop Hall for several years now. His son, Sammy, and my daughter, Heather, were married in the early 90's and have two of our grandchildren, Courtney our 8 year old granddaughter and Caleb our 3 year old grandson. We love this family very much. Let us lift this family up to the Lord in our prayers.

UPDATE - YESTERDAY AND TODAY

During the day yesterday, I did some running for the church business needs and also visited two of the neighbors up the street. I invited them to church and also told them about our soft drink sales. So far we are seeing a good amount of soft drink cases to sell.

Karen and I visited with Don and Kathy yesterday evening. I did some more counseling with them. Their wedding is scheduled for next Tuesday, July 4 at 10 am in the church sanctuary. Their reception will be at their home in Martin at 1 pm. The rehearsal is scheduled for 7 pm Monday, July 3rd in the church sanctuary.

After taking care of some office work and doing some studying early this morning, Karen and I (along with our guest, Stacy Long, who is visiting with us while his wife works in Youth Camp and his daughter attends as well) went to the Land Between the Lakes and visited with Brother Leon and Sister Susie Reynolds who invited us to come for a visit where they are camping. We had a great visit and enjoyed cooking out and the fellowship with his family. The weather was awesome as a cool front brought the temperature down into the 70's today. I enjoyed a time of sitting by the TN/KY lake and listening to the waves come in (actually I fell asleep and slept for a while). Karen went into the water with Celinas, the Reynolds granddaughter. They had a great time. The Reynolds are very faithful in the work of the church and in supporting the ministry here. We love and appreciate this family.

We got back home around 7 pm. We had a sandwich for supper and rested a while. I have been doing more office work and studying. Almost time for the "sack." Thanks for stopping by and God bless. . . . . .

Death Notice -- Gracie Hall

Bishop H. Wayne Hall's (International Heritage Ministries and Fields of the Wood Director and former State Overseer of Tennessee) mother has passed away.

She will be at Hunter's Funeral home in Watertown, Tennessee. The family will be receiving friends tomorrow, Tuesday 1:00 - 9:00 PM, and Wednesday 8:00 - 10:00 AM. The graveside service will be at 11:00 AM.

Please join me in prayer for the Hall family.

Brother Wayne Hall and Sister Wanda are the parents of our son-in-law, Sammy Hall the husband of our second daughter, Heather.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2006

God was in the house today. People were uplifting and glorifying the glorious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are so thankful that God was very present in both services. The evening service was especially blessed as people brought their needs to the Lord. We give the Lord all the praise, honor and glory. People left with a greater anointing and greater determination to serve and worship the Lord daily.

The Holy Ghost spoke and gave a message of comfort and hope and charged us to keep our faith stedfast in the Lord. There was a great presence of the Lord for which we are very thankful. God is moving among us and we desire to minister with Him.

ABOVE ALL THINGS. . .

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Every great leader has a specific leadership point of view that defines how they see their role and their relationships to those they seek to influence...

More here. . . .

PASTOR'S NOTES

COMPLACENCY: Complacency is another word for “half-heartedness,” or apathy. Complacency kills more churches than false doctrines, hypocrites, or a host of other problems that a church may have. Complacency is being satisfied with the status quo. It is mediocrity and being content with the way things are.

PASSION: Passion is a red hot desire to progress and see ministry being done done. It was the passion of Christ to die on the cross for a lost and dying world. He fulfilled His passion. What is your passion? Are you complacent or apathetic about the things of God or are you passionate. For a church to do ministry effectively, it must be passionate. Passionate leaders are involved in the local church’s ministry and give their best. Passion must be in the heart and life of the Pastor, the leaders and the members for a church to minister as Christ desires.

Milton Gordon, Pastor

YOUTH CAMPS

Two campers are leaving for Hickory Hills Camp today. Mariah and Tyler are headed for a great time in Junior Camp. We pray that God will bless these campers and they will have a great time in the Lord and also have fun with all the camping activities.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

The journey toward being a servant leader and leading like Jesus starts in your Heart with the surrender of your motivations and intent to serve God by serving others.

More here. . .

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT

Kathy Boone and Don VanMeter anounce their wedding for July 4th, 2006 at 10 am at the church sanctuary. The reception will be at their home in Martin at 1 pm.

Don and Kathy came for pre-marital counseling tonight. Karen and I ordered pizza and we had a great visit. I counseled with them for about 90 minutes tonight and will continue.

We wish and pray for this couple the very best in their future. They have been engaged now for over two years. Thank God for couples who dedicate themselves to the Lord and to each other.

FUND RAISER

The church here is having a fund raiser to help pay the new property off. We are selling cases of 20 oz. Coke products. Products also include Disani water, lemonade, Nestea, Barqs Root Beer, Dr. Pepper and all the coke line of drinks including diet drinks. See one of the members who have the forms. These case lot sales are not found in any stores that we know of. Get your soft drinks for the 4th of July.

UPDATE - VISIT AND PRAISE REPORT

I visited with the Davis family last night to tell them about our Coca-Cola fund raiser. They gave me the following report.

Josh and Carla Lawton's son, Devin, came home with a clean "bill of health." He didn't even have scars on his face as they thought he would. He had to two fairly long scars under his hair but they don't even show. The doctor's said that it was amazing that he is not in a coma or paralyzed. He had five minor concussions but no serious brain damage. The Lawton's and Davis's are giving God all the glory and praise.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Jesus modeled for us the essence of an effective servant leader as He developed community instead of fostering competition. He ate with, . . .

More here

YOUTH CAMPS

Youth camps are in progress. Most of our older youth have grown past the age of attending any of the youth camps. We have two younger campers scheduled to attend. Any others who may want to attend, please contact Brother Paul Rivera or the Pastor. An anonymous donor has given the money for one to attend who may not have the finance otherwise to go.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Treating pride and fear as addictions provides a basis for understanding what it will take to overcome their daily impact on your leadership choices.

More Here

PRAYER REQUEST

Sister Jennie Sanders is requesting prayer for her eyes. A recent doctor visit shows that she has glaucoma and it is damaging her eyes. She is scheduled to have laser surgery next week. Let us join together to pray for her.

UPDATE

Father's day evening was very special. Each of my daughters called me and wished me happy Father's day. Of course, Jason, was with us that morning and he did wish me a happy Father's Day as I dropped him off at Bethel to go with the Choir to Birmingham, AL.

Sunday evening Sister Karen and I rested and had some down time after traveling for much of last week. We encourged each family to be with their Fathers and the rest of the family on Sunday evening.

Monday morning Karen and I left fairly early and traveled to Birmingham where the Cumberland Presbyterian, Presbyterian USA and Cumberland Presbyterian USA were having their yearly joint General Assembly. Of course, the main reason we went was to support Jason who sings in the Bethel College Renaissance Choir - only about 55% of the choir could be there. It was a very unique worship service for Karen and I since we had never been to one of their General Assemblies. The Renaissance Choir sang and the audience was very responsive. The choir almost reminded me of Pentecostals as they clapped their hands, swayed and pat their feet to the music. The choir is multi-racial and multi-national. It is a joy to see these young people singing praises to the King of Kings.

We truly enjoyed being with Jason and the choir. Everyone who hears this choir gives them accolades. Their director, Peter Jeffreys, really puts everything he has into the worship and expects that from each one in the group. He is a very accomplished musician having worked with several professional and semi-professional groups. He made this statement, "We may not please everyone here but we certainly do our best to please God with our worship and if that is why we each one came together tonight, I feel God is smiling on us." Pretty good way of saying it, don't you think?

We went out to eat after the service and enjoyed meeting some new people. It was a good trip for Karen and I.

We got back home later this evening.

PRAYER REQUEST

Josh and Carla Lawton's son, Devin, was in a swimming accident last Thursday. He is in the LaBohner children's hospital in Memphis. He is doing much better but the family desires continued prayer for his complete recovery. Sister Virginia Davis, his grandmother, called last night and said that the doctor's are amazed that he was not in a coma or paralyzed, considering the extent of the injury to his head. Sister Davis said, "I believe it was just a miracle from the Lord that he is not in a coma or is not paralyzed."

We thank God for His protection and healing!

SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2006

The service today was great! Brother Palmer (89 year old retired pastor) preached a great, encouraging message. The fathers were recognized and given a reminder of father's day. It was a great day.

GREAT DAY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Today was a great day with family and friends. Karen, Jason and I left early this morning for Westmoreland, TN and the church at Lakeside. There is their beautiful property where we had a surprise birthday party for our second daughter, Heather, who is to be 32 on June 20. It was a surprise to her. I was so happy to see all my children and their spouses, Shane Queener, Sammy Hall and Chris Holman. Tony, my brother, his wife, Pascha, and twin daughters, Carrie and Anna, were there along with my mother, Beatrice Cathey. Also, Brother and Sister Hall, Heather's in-laws and their children and grandchildren were there. The pictures below say more than I can every say. We love our family. HAPPY BIRTHDAY HEATHER! She is the blonde next to Jason in the picture below. Danita, the oldest, is next to her and Sarah, the youngest in on the other side of Jason. Thank God for all our children.

MORE PICTURES FROM HEATHER'S BD SURPRISE

Karen says, yum, yum good BD cake.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

The EGO barriers to having a servant heart only can be overcome when we come to the end of ourselves and invite God in to transform us through the power of the Holy Spirit.

More Here

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THIS PAST WEEK, TODAY & SUNDAY'S GUEST MINISTER

We have enjoyed our stay in Branson. We have taken a ride on the Duck, an amphibious (land and water) vehicle used in the military. We saw much of the area in Branson. We saw a lot of the army vehicles used in the military on this trip and also had the experience of riding in a vehicle similar to what the soldiers rode in when they landed at Normandy during WWII. It was very enjoyable. We went to some country/gospel shows and enjoyed eating at some good places. We visited the new Branson Landing area where they have a mile walk by the river and where there will be a mile of shops and other tourist attractions. We also enjoyed the time to relax and be in the Ozark Mountains and see the big lake here in the Ozark Valley. It has been a very enjoyable experience. I hope to post some pictures later.

Karen and I will be heading back to Huntingdon today. We have enjoyed our five days away. We will be on the road for 7-8 hours. We ask God for protection.

This Sunday, Bishop J. C. Palmer will be bringing the message. Brother Palmer pastored in the COGOP (in TN, KY and GA) for about 47 years. He still wants to minister even though he is 88 years young. He was happy that I called and said, "Sure, I'll be glad to come." He and Sister Palmer are special to us.

THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2006

Having a great time in Branson. More later.

God bless.

MONDAY, JUNE 12, 2006

Karen and I are enjoying a few days vacation in St. Louis and on to Branson, Mo. We had a great time being like kids at the St. Louis Zoo. We did not know that it was free to get in. We stayed at the old Union Station Hyatt Regency in old downtown St. Louis where some 200,000 military men came through to go overseas in WWII. The old town Mall was awesome as well as the outdoor and indoor water falls and sprays.

We are praying for the continued will and blessings of God for the church community here in Huntingdon. I am so thankful for a church that loves us and cares for us. So many have said, "have a great time on your vacation." God bless you. We love you.

More later . . .

SUNDAY, JUNE 11, 2006

This morning was a great time of worship and praise. There were several out on vacation or traveling but we enjoyed the presence of the Lord. The Holy Spirit encouraged us to continue seeking the Lord - ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it will be opened unto you. We were encouraged to persistent in our communion with God.

The singing tonight was blessed with the mightly presence of the Holy Ghost. "Wings of Faith" (see pictures above) encouraged and blessed us with their singing. There was an altar service near the end of the concert. We circled around the youth in the service and prayed for them and encouraged them. The songs uplifted our Lord and Savior and we worshipped with them as they praised our Savior. Thank God for gospel singers who spread the gospel with their singing and testimonies.

We were happy to see several visitors from the Solid Rock church and from the Assembly of God in McKenzie.

TODAY & TONIGHT & PRAYER REQUEST

I have been studying much of today. It has been a fairly quiet day with Karen and my little granddaughter, Aviana. Karen and I have been making some plans for our vacation trip next week. We are going to St. Louis and then on to Branson. This will be a first for us.

I called Brother J. C. Palmer today and asked him to preach here at Huntindon next week. He said he would be glad to come. He is a retired minister of 47 or 49 years pastoring in the COGOP. He seemed delighted to be asked to come and minister. I hope someone will ask me if I live to the age of 88 as he is and the Lord tarries.

Brother Palmer's son Tony is not doing well at this time with severe diabetes. He is requesting prayer for Tony.

Also, "Wings of Faith" will be with us tomorrow night in our monthly singing go here for more information.

Continuing in prayerful study for Sunday.

FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 2006

After a time of devotion at the pavilion - which was another great time of study, meditation and prayer - I took a deposit to the bank for Sister Coleman and also took Karen's car to have the oil changed. I did some other business while in town.

I visited several in the hospital after lunch today and prayed with some of them.

Dr. Chuck Burks and I met and discussed some things for a while this afternoon. Karen and Ragene (Chuck's wife) met us later and we had dinner (or supper, depending on where you're from) together. It was an enjoyable time. We are continuing to pray for Brother Chuck and the Jackson church.

It has been another great day in the Lord. "This is the day that the Lord has made, I have rejoiced and been glad in it." To Him be all glory, honor and praise.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Intimate relationships with God and people depend on your being a good steward of the leadership that God and others have entrusted to you.

More here

THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 2006

I continue to do my daily devotions at the pavilion. It is such a quiet blessed time to be there. Brother J. E. Moore called my cell phone around 7:30 and he came and we visited there at the pavilion for a while then we went and had breakfast together. We then went and took a check to the building supply place and paid for the materials to build the pavilion.

I came home around 10:30 and did some more office work until lunch and then back to the office to for more work until supper.

We left at 5:45 pm to go visit with Sister Cathy Coleman and her family. She is now the clerk/treasurer for the church. Sister Rita Moore did it for several years but resigned a couple months ago. She did a great job and I'm sure Sister Cathy Coleman will do a fine job as well.

We visited with her and her grandchildren and had a great time (see picture below). The cake she made was very delicious. After visiting for about an hour, Karen and I worked with Sister Cathy for a while on the church books and then left for home and got back home around 10 pm. We finished watching the Dallas Mavericks win the first game of the NBA championship series. Headed for the sack at 11 pm.

It was another great day serving and worshipping the Lord.


Picture: Top center, B. J., Sister Coleman's nephew, Left, Brooks, Sister Coleman's grandson, Right, Mariah, Sister Coleman's grandaughter, Bottom Center, Sister Coleman is holding her newest grandson, Dalton.

TODAY & TONIGHT

Today was another great day in the Lord. After going to the pavilion to do my daily devotion, I continued with some office work and my monthly report. It seems that these times of the month take so much of the day but the reports are part of being accountable and part of worshipping God with good stewardship. I desire to be a faithful steward of God's time, treasure and talent.

I visited the hospital after doing my devotions, studying and doing my report and mailing it. There are so many there in the hospital that are in need of God's touch. I cannot give names here because of Federal regulations but God knows each one. I prayed with several and listened to some who just needed an understanding person to be there.

I went to Bethel College Library today to check out some books on leadership. I am continuing in the Doctorate but it seems that I get so little completed and after a year, I am way off my scheduled time table. God help me to get back on track with this study.

Tonight was our prayer and bible study. We met at the pavilion. It was so refreshing and relaxing to meet outside where the birds and other parts of nature are open to the eye and to the ear. As we were about to start singing a deer popped into view. The deer stopped and stared for a long time. We were awed at God's creation as the deer moved swiftly through on the other end of the property. The singing, prayers and bible study were very much blessed by the presence of the Lord. We are now doing books of the bible studies since we have completed the Marriage Document from the BDP committee. Tonight we began our first book study on the book of Galatians.

God is awesome! Thank God for His Son - Jesus Christ and for the Holy Spirit who leads us and teaches us more of Jesus. To God be the glory!

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

Transparent relationships are based on good stewardship. Good stewardship can be defined as the wise care and active use of another’s property as set forth by the owner.

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WINGS OF FAITH SOUTHERN GOSPEL SINGING GROUP

"Wings of Faith" Southern Gospel singing group will be with us this coming Sunday night, June 11th, for our monthly singing night. We look forward to this time of worship in gospel singing. Gordon Meador heads up the group with his great style of piano playing. The singing will begin at 6 pm.

WINGS OF FAITH was organized as a Ministry in November, 2004 and started out with a good service in Nashville, TN, on New Year's Eve, followed by a Sunday night in Jasper, Alabama, where one soul was saved during a Great Service. We have had a Wonderful First Year and looking forward to 2006.

GORDON MEADOR, who is the Manager of the group, plays piano and does most of the Emcee work. He has been involved in Gospel Music for many years, playing piano for The Joymakers, Jubilations, Rangers and many others down thru the years. He has also produced recordings for various artist, including Gerald Crabb, as well as promoted many Southern Gospel Concerts.

Read more about them here

TODAY

My day began early as I went to the pavilion to meditate and study. It was a crisp, cool morning with the sun and the Son shining down. It is such a grand feeling to be with God outside where the birds are singing and the trees are waving their leaves in glory to the Lord. A small deer came across the property just a few feet from the pavilion. It was oblivious to me as it stopped every few feet and ate some of the new Spring growth. I watched in awe as one of God's creations moved so easily through the field in front of me. I just wish I had taken my camera. Maybe next time.

After meditating and studying for some time. I came home and did some office work and began working on my monthly minister's report. I had to catch up on some posting in my monthly minister's spreadsheet and tomorrow I hope to transfer those figures to my online report to the state office.

Later this evening, Karen, Jason and I took little Aviana to the Tennessee River Lake near Camden, TN. We enjoyed a time of riding together and going to the lake for a while. Aviana sang several songs as we traveled. She really can remember and sing well for a 3 year old. She sang, "Giving My Heart To Jesus", "Let All God's Children Praise The Lord" and several others. We laughed, sang, laughed and sang some more. It is a joy to be with family.

Karen called Sarah and they are enjoying their vacation on Myrtle Beach, SC. Karen and I are looking forward to our vacation next week. . .It will be the first planned vacation in about three years.

It is getting close to time for the "sack" for the night. . . .10:55 pm

DAILY DEVOTIONAL - "LEAD LIKE JESUS"

The price for gaining confidence and humility is intimacy with God. Every day you need to surrender your pride and fears to His guidance and sufficiency through pre-emptive prayer, solitude and Bible study.

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TODAY

Thank God for another day to worship Him and serve Him.

I am serving as Volunteer Chaplain at the local hospital this week. I visited several there this morning and prayed with those who requested prayer. After visiting there Karen and I left for Dickson later in the morning to meet Sarah and Chris to get Aviana our granddaughter who is staying with us for a week while they are gone on vacation to Myrtle Beach South Carolina. We had lunch with them at Cracker Barrel in Dickson.

We left and came back through Camden and stopped by the hospital there and had prayer with brother Lonnie Bush. He continues to need prayer.

We arrived back home and I did some studying for Wednesday evenings bible study.

Thank God for another great day in the Lord.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Pray for Sister Peggy Heath. She has not felt well for some time. Let us pray that God will heal her and give her strength to get back in church where she desires to be.

DR. CHUCK BURKS TO MINISTER AT JACKSON, TN CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY

I went to the new pavilion early Saturday morning to meditate and study for Sunday. It was very quiet, peacful and cool there this morning. I studied for about 90 minutes and then received a cell phone call from State Overseer E. C. McKinley. He asked me to assist him in speaking with Chuck Burks about going to our Jackson church for a while, since they are needing a pastor at this time.

Then I went and picked up Brother Burks and we went back to the pavilion. I asked Brother Chuck if he would be interested in doing some ministry in one of our churches and passed on the message from Brother McKinley. Brother Burks agreed to take it for a period of time and he and I talked for about an hour and I answered some of his questions and offered some counsel.

We left the pavilion for lunch and then I picked him back up after lunch and we went to Jackson to see the building and property. We fellowshipped and talked much of the evening.

Bishop McKinley advised me that he would contact the church about Dr. Burks coming and emailed a letter for Dr. Burks to take to the church.

We welcome Dr. Burks and wife, Ragene, to this time of Pastoral Ministry in the Church of God of Prophecy and pray that their ministry will be blessed and fruitful for the Lord. We are praying that God's will be done in their ministry and in the Jackson church.

I pray that God will use them mightily for the work of the Lord and the building up of the kingdom of God. I pray that souls will be brought into the kingdom of God and that the kingdom of God will be brought into souls there in the city of Jackson and Madison County, Tennessee.

To God be the glory!

PRAYER REQUESTS

Sister Marie Moore requests prayer for her legs. She is having problems with pain and being able to stand very long.

Continue to pray for the recovery of Ethan Pyburn, grandson of Alton and Donna Crossno. He is back home and doing well so far from tonsil and adnoid ectomies.

Pray for those who are homebound - Sister Jennie Sanders, Sister Lennie Mae Crossno, Sister Bonnie (Crossno) Curtis, Sister Lilly Grooms and Brother Lonnie Bush.

Pray especially for brother Lonnie Bush who fell and busted his knee cap. He has been in Camden hospital for several days.

Pray for our Harvest Partner nations of Uganda and Sudan and Brother James the National Overseer.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2006

I was with Karen most of the day on our 24th wedding anniversary. As noted in the previous post, I am very thankful that God put Karen and I together and has kept us these 24 years. We have so much to be thankful for. We have four wonderful children and four wonderful grandchildren. God has been so good to us and we just give Him all the praise and all the glory - He is so worthy.

Karen, Jason and I went to Vickies Restaurant and ate seafood last night. We then came home and had a restful evening together.

TO A VERY SPECIAL LADY - MY COMPANION, MY WIFE, MY LOVE OF 24 YEARS

Isn't she lovely, isn't she wonderful, O yes!

Thank God for a wonderful wife who has loved me and my family and served with me in ministry for twenty four great years. We were both scheduled to minister in the evening services of different churches the day of our wedding. We left in a hurry after our wedding to go minister to two different churches. When I got to the White Bluff church they were singing, "The wedding of the bride united with the groom" part of "We Shall See the King" song. When Karen got to Erin where she was to minister they were singing, "O I Want To See Him." We have been in ministry ever since in three different states. Today is our Anniversary. KAREN, I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!

FAMILY VISIT - Saturday - Thursday

My daughter Sarah, granddaughter Aviana and Sarah's friend Amanda visited with us from Saturday through Thursday morning. Sarah and Amanda did a mime in our Sunday morning service. It was great.



Mamaw and Papaw love you Aviana. We know why they are called grandchildren now!

THURSDAY, JUNE 1, 2006

Sister Karen and I got up at 4 am to go be with the family of Ethan Pyburn, grandson of Donna Crossno. We arrived at 7:15 and as Ethan was about to be taken for surgery. He had surgery at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital in Nashville. The surgery went well. He was in and out in less than an hour to remove tonsils and adnoids. The report was that he took something to drink later in the morning, which is a good sign. We prayed with the family and stayed with them until about 10:30 am and then left to take care of some business in Nashville.

Karen and I did some shopping and also looked at some other things in Nashville. We left for home about 2:30 pm. We stopped in Dickson and ate at Shoneys for our pre-anniversary meal. Karen surprised me as the Shoney's gang came out singing Happy Anniversary. I was so surprised that I threw my napkin at her. She was laughing hilariously at me. She told the Shoney's gang, "I never get to get one on him but this time I did." We enjoyed the hot fudge cake they brought out.

We got back home at about 6:30 pm. I called some folks and then went by the pavilion to do some last minute clean up and inspecting. I sat down to watch the NBA playoffs at 8 pm. I fell asleep in our love-seat recliner at 9:30 as we watched Dallas and Phoenix in the NBA playoffs. Karen woke me up at 10:30. Dallas with big "Dirk" really womped Phoenix last night. He scored 50 big ones.

11 pm - good night.