When the Pastor preaches himself under conviction...

 

This was the question I asked in a series I'm preaching on Noah. I posed the question as part of the PowerPoint presentation.  The thought is compelling as well as convicting and the sanctuary grew quiet as each of us reflected on its implications.  First of all it speaks to the faithfulness of Noah's life; his faith and fellowship with God.  But it also calls for deep personal introspection.  There is definitely room for growth and improvement on my part.  May God help us to love Him and be loyal to His word not just as if the survival of the race depended on it, but because the love of God displayed for me upon the cross of Calvary compels and constrains me to do so.

Updating at Last

I've been chastised about my inability to update my blogs... sorry about that.  It's been awhile since I last posted.  We continue to miss Beverly and appreciate the impact she had on our lives.  Since this was Christmas and New Year season, her absence was more poignant.  But we know where she is and Who she's with... and are thankful for the hope we have in Christ.

I've been sick and missed 2 services over the past month due to flu and sinus issues.  I also missed out on being with Cathy to welcome our newest addition to the family.  Amanda and Andy welcomed their newest daughter into their family.  Lena Grace Justison has graced their world and we are indeed thankful for her health.  No doubt the love in their family will continue to grow.  Pray for them as they continue to raise funds for their ministry to Togo, Africa.

Jonathan, Kristine and the kids traveled west to us from their home in Washington, PA.  The work there is doing well and I'm proud of what they've been able to accomplish.  You can also tell that they love the lord and are leading their children to love them as well. 

Tim and Tamara are waiting with anticipation for the birth of their daughter.  Tim began EMT classes and continues to work at Landmark in the office as well as leading our Praise Team.  Please keep them in prayer as they continue to look for the Lord's direction in their lives and ministry.

It's Blogging Time Again

It's been awhile... again.... since my last blog.  Things are going well.  I'm always amazed at what God has done and is doing in our lives.  I am awed and humbled at watching my married children raise their children, my grandchildren, in the ways of the Lord.  Grandchildren are all that I've heard.  It's amazing to feel and see the love reflected in their eyes and in my heart as they spend time with us... for too short a time, and far too long between their visits.  Cherished moments that Cathy and I think about often.  They have truly grabbed our hearts, each of them.  And we celebrate the coming birth of our 5th grandchild.  I'm thankful and truly blessed.

Personal Blog ... Stardate ...

It seems that I'm not very good at keeping the blogs updated.  Too busy with other things.  IBI has much of my attention with teaching and administration.  But I am encouraged by what God is doing through the school.  Even if we are just the trail blazzers of this new format, I can see it's potential.  We had a busy summer, with camp, the EBA, and now IBI.  And on top of that, my responsibilities as a husband, father, and pastor.  I'm thankful that God has allowed me the privilege of being involved in His Kingdom work by pastoring one of His churches.  I am also thankful that all my children are involved in serving Him.  My son-in-law, Andy and my daughter, Amanda were accepted as AWBE missionaries to Togo, Africa.  That means that their children, (our Grandchildren) will be going with them.   They haven't left yet and already I'm missing them!  But God is in Control.  He has seen fit to call them to that field and I can only be thankful that they, willingly and submissively, have obeyed that call. 

Jonathan and Kristine are still serving as part of a church planting team in Washington, PA.  We've been informed that they are now expecting their third child.  That will make our fifth grandchild!  I am thankful for their service as well, and pray that God continues to bless their efforts.

Tim is doing well and seems to be recovering nicely.  He has been able to taste food now, although he states that his taste isn't quite normal yet.  He's seeking God's will for his life in ministry and we are praying that God will open that door and show him clearly the direction He needs to take.  He's planning on getting married, but that date is not yet set.  Pray for both Tim and Tamara as they seek God's direction for their lives. 

Too Long...

It's been too long since my last personal blog.  And it has been too long since all my children have been home at once, not to mention the grandchildren.  Tim's graduation was the reason for the reunion.  (He's doing great by the way; thanks for the prayers...)  The graduation went well, but the picture to me is one of the highlights for the family.  God has truly blessed us; and the grandkids... well they're just grand!