Mysteries Revealed

Bill Steakin called me yesterday to confirm my speaking appointment last night at TRC...(more on that later-www.TRCprisonministry.org) He also informed me that one of the fellows was putting himself at serious risk with old addictions and careless behavior. I had a little time to pray and reflect and God directed me to James 5:13-16 - specifically call the elders to pray over him and anoint him with oil. Here's the provision of God: I keep a little vial of oil in my van, but it was empty. It just so happened that as I was going out the door yesterday, my wife handed me a new full vial of oil and said, "here, you might need this." She does not know I keep a vial nor that it was empty, and of course had no idea of the events of the evening until I got home! I was able to anoint the brother in the name of the Lord and he was totally broken as I told this story. He was able to feel God's singular love for him. And I was able to thank God once again for my wife and all the opportunities He gives me to tell of His wonderful LOVE. God, You are an Awesome God.

Memorial Day...Lots to be thankful for - So many loved ones gone, but lots of memories.

Our Jenny finished 12th grade last week and it brought tons of remembrance of our first baby granddaughter. She and I used to walk a couple blocks to get ice cream when she could barely walk. She'd patiently wait 'til we got back to eat our melted ice cream bars. Sometimes we'd sit in her Aunt Kate's convertible in the carport and pretend drive. Jenny taught me a lot about babies and especially your children's babies! "No" is not in our vocabulary, and the parents of all our grands have given us this special gift by their sweet skillful parenting. We are so grateful. Jenny, I can't be your "hubund", but I sure am glad to be your Papa.

Visions

I can't believe it was 10 years ago that Ron Kurusis invited me to speak at SLC Correctional Center. This was before the chapel was even built. God gave the right man the vision for that chapel and Ron did not falter. It was several years in the praying stage, alone.
Chaplain David Thompson has instituted many services and meetings, and offers opportunity for all to be ministered. He fills the Chaplain shoes well - and they had been "well worn and worn well" by Chaplain Jeff Owens in the many years he served there. It has been an awesome sight to see the variety of men God has sent to preach - several from the ranks of inmates, restored to the community and desiring to "give back" with gratitude. Much credit goes to our Sheriff Mascara who has endorsed and encouraged the work.

Thank God for new generations

The birth of my 14th grandchild has impressed upon me the narrow

window of time allotted to all of us. It's pretty amazing to think that this little child could someday be my last link to living memory. Already the little older children have nearly forgotten my father-in-law who passed away last spring. And none have recollection of my father, gone now for 24 years. Of course, it's age that presents these truths so brutally, life just a vapor. But, the assurance of God's timetable and plan helps soften brittle reality. We know we are here for God's purpose, be it brief or extended. Purpose is on every church going mind these days and it may be hazardous to so rigidly adhere to the idea that we can know the plan of God, even nudge His hand to meet our expectations. Let it suffice to say that man has his plans, but God is THE Planner and it is reasonable to assume He may not divulge His entire game. He comforts us with the assurance that He will "finish the work", which lines up with other advice - to "rest in Him." Be cautious about much discussion and dissension - but always ready to give a word of encouragement. Here's one: Kevin, you and Sara are truly blessed and a blessing.