Thanksgiving

For nearly 400 years, Americans have celebrated Thanksgiving in some fashion, based upon historical records, presidential declarations, and good old-fashioned traditions.

Today, we find ourselves in a 21-st century maze of information overload, prosperity beyond belief, and luxuries that our forefathers could have only fantasized about from their humble beginnings here.

The menu of foods is mind-boggling. The Black Friday marketing machine has become the dream of billionaires.  The fans-gone-wild sports industry is bigger than ever.  And somehow, amidst the craziness of life as we know it in America, we are challenged to stop, bow, humble ourselves, and show gratitude and thanks to a God who rarely gets a nod from us throughout the busyness of our lives.

Apostle Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do." (CEV)

Whatever happens.  Really??

There are parts of scripture that I really just don't like.  I don't understand.  I find myself struggling to agree with.  This is one of them.  Whatever happens ... keep thanking God.

But, what about the painful losses that I've suffered.  What about the unfair treatment I have endured.  What about the nasty rumors that have been spoken about me.  What about the acts of terror that are committed against innocent people around the world, and now even in my own beloved America ... the land of the free?!

I must read on.  The wise apostle says to keep on thanking God ... because of Jesus Christ.

Because.  Because of Who He is.  Because of What He has done.  Because of His suffering.  Because of the great price He has paid for my sin, and that of all humanity.  Because He is to be praised and glorified.  Because of His great salvation that His blood purchased.  Because of the epic battle that He has won over death, hell, and the grave.  Because He now sits at the right hand of The Father ever singing over me, interceding for me, pouring out His Spirit on me.

This is what God wants me to do.  This is what God wants you to do.  This is what we MUST do ... if we are to find any sense of true joy in this sin-sick world.

So, today ... I give thanks.  Jesus, thank You for the Cross.  Thank You for the price you paid.  Thank You for not quitting.  Thank You for defeating sin.  Thank You for my family, for my health, for the luxuries that we enjoy in America.  We are not worthy, and yet You have blessed us tremendously.

O God, I want to please you ... so, today I will give thanks.

House Church

So, my family and I are worshiping together in 'church' service this past Sunday and the pastor teaches from Philemon. You know, that little bitty one chapter letter from Paul in the New Testament.

Now, Philemon was evidently a wealthy guy in his day, possibly a bishop in the Church, and a slave-owner.  Read it for yourself and discern the facts.

Back to last Sunday ... 

So, as the pastor is reading the scripture, this phrase from verse 2 pierces my brain, " ... the church that meets in your house ...".  What?  Huh?  (( nudging my wife )) Did you hear that?  The church that meets in your HOUSE.

House Church.

So, how 'large' is this congregation that meets at Philemon's house?  30 people?  60 people?  100-or more??  Just how big a house are we talking here?!

TWO major thoughts cross my mind as the pastor continues and brilliantly delivers a challenge to his congregation from this quick memo penned by Apostle Paul.

1.  WEALTH attracts people.

Americans are infamous for criticizing and ostracizing wealthy, famous, and notorious people in society.  If you seem to have more than me ... the jealousy in me rages and I have to criticize what I don't believe I can personally accomplish, as compared to you.  So, really -- it's a comparison game.  And, an unfair one at that.

Philemon was obviously a wealthy guy from all accounts.  He was highly regarded in his community, owned slaves or servants [employees?], and had enough influence, or notoriety, to attract large numbers of believers to his HOUSE for church services.

I once heard a financially successful and quite wealthy Christian businessman say, " ... one thing's for sure, when I was broke, living in a double-wide, and barely paying my light bill, NOBODY was beating down my door to find out how I was succeeding in life!"

Wealth -- in whatever way one might measure wealth -- is sure to attract people.  Healthy, wealthy, and wise is a principle taught straight from scripture.  Refer to 3 John 2

2.  A HOUSE should be a HOME.

I know of many houses -- or, structures which house people -- that are far from being considered Home.  Home is that feeling of safety, security, belonging, and acceptance, where one can simply BE.

When I'm 'at home' ... I kick off my shoes, put my feet up, relax, and enjoy the loved ones who live in my home with me.

My beautiful wife is the driving force of Peace in our home.  She sets the tone.  Her beauty, her spirit, her attitude, her discipline, her intuition, her wisdom, and her spiritual discernment flow into every nook and cranny of our home.

Our amazing children are fruit of our love and our labor, displaying natural gifts and abilities, and excelling in the skills they have acquired.  They prove by their actions that they love us, even when they goof; and we prove our love for them by maintaining a standard of Love, Forgiveness, Acceptance, and Discipline.  Everyone does their best to model Christ ... but, even when we miss the mark ... we always go back to Love.

When everyone is BEING who they are created to BE ... it's HOME.

Back to Philemon's House Church ...

For many reasons, the Church in 1st-century Christianity was meeting predominantly in Houses -- or, in the Homes of believers, and non-believers who were seeking Truth.  Politically, this was necessary due to dangerous rulers who were murdering and martyring Believers at every opportunity.  I'm sure that somehow in God's Grand Design ... He intended it.


21-st Century House Church ...

Here we are in 21-st century America, Europe, Asia, and beyond ... and it seems that the cycle has nearly come full circle.  Is it time to return to House Church?  Are we prepared to gather, belong, and care for one another at that level of intimacy and compassion?

Pride will throw temper tantrums in that atmosphere.  Selfishness will suffocate.  Hateful and prejudicial attitudes will be fully exposed.  Only the Law of LOVE will survive.  Only COMPASSION can be the Rule of that Law.

I welcome your thoughts and comments.  Love God ... and Love People.

New Seasons

I love the Israel Houghton & New Breed song, "New Season".  That song came into my life at a time when I was emotionally, financially, and spiritually depleted.  Today, nearly 20 years after that very difficult season in our lives, the Lord is moving us into yet another season of life that is filled with excitement, anticipation, and yes, if I am honest, a few trepidations.

With a heavy dose of #DaringFaith we desire to fulfill God's call on our lives and follow His commission to influence all who will to come into His Kingdom.

Sunday, April 19, 2015 will mark our last Sunday on staff as Minister of Music with Ingalls Avenue Baptist Church Pascagoula.  We joined the Ministry Staff in November 2012 with great joy and anticipation of God's blessing and vision, and He has certainly fulfilled many of our hopes and dreams for this dear congregation of folks and for His Kingdom.

Under our watch with Pastor John Turner, Pastor Jonathon Watts (Student Ministry), and a host of faithful volunteers in Choir, Praise Team, and Media Ministry, we have enjoyed a season of sweet worship, the joy of new souls birthed into the Kingdom of God, the celebration of baptisms and dedications, and of course the sorrows of grief and pain which this life will always contend with.

Beginning April 20th, I will enter into the business world once again, as a Financial Advisor with one of the most prestigious and well-respected banking institutions on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.  I have many friends and peers in this industry, and I look forward to the learning curve as God moves me into a new season of work, career development, and friendships.

We are eternally grateful and thankful to our family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and especially Prayer Warriors who have encouraged us, prayed over us, and carried us through life's turmoils.  God has a great and wonderful Plan for us all.  It is our desire to fulfill that Plan for Him through our careers, our family activities, our ministries, and even our play and recreation.  ALL for His glory.

More details ... coming soon!  Stay tuned. We LOVE you!

Robby & Sheryl

Mean

"... All you're ever gonna be is mean ..."

Taylor Swift captured the emotions of her teeny-bopper fans with her self-promoting catchy pop-country song.  Still, the message here is very real.

Some people thrive on cynicism, glass-half-full pessimism, and outright bad attitudes towards themselves, others, and life in general.  And, it seems we're at a peak moment in The Church.  That's right ... God's Church.

I'm a pastor's kid, raised in the deep South around fundamental conservative right-wingers who were unashamedly narrow in their views about our doctrine, about religion in general, and certainly about race and culture issues.  It truly is amazing that I escaped that sub-culture Christianity with any sort of worldview outside of the rural and racially bigoted 1960s Dixie-crat South where I was born.

The Bible clearly states that ALL of us have sinned.  Missed the 'mark'.  Strayed off course.  Broken God's heart.  And we all need salvation, redemption, and healing.  ALL of us.  Including the religious bigots, zealots, and hyper-spiritual meanies among us.  So, why so mean?  Really?!

You would think that those of us who have been born again, bought by the Blood, sanctified by the Spirit, walking with Jesus, could find it within ourselves to exhibit just a little bit of kindness, gentleness, meekness, and all those other fruity flavors of Holy Spirit living ... right?

I heard one of my great mentor-pastors say recently, " ... if you got baptized by the Holy Spirit forty years ago and you can't get through a week without being mean, angry, short-tempered, and just plain rude ... YOU LEAKED ... and you need to go GET SOME MORE ...".

How true!  If you are not choosing to live DAILY in an attitude of humility, forgiveness, understanding, and yes -- tolerance of others -- the truth is, you may have LEAKED and you need some MORE of the Holy Spirit's en-filling, as we say in the Church.

I expect rudeness, anger, and plain ole crazy behavior out of people who have chosen to reject God, the Gospel, and the Spirit-led purpose filled life.  Normal ... for anyone who rejects a moral compass and a compassionate reason for living ... is going to naturally become self-centered, mean-spirited, and outright dangerous to the community and culture around them.  Check out the Taliban!

But for those who say they have chosen to live for Christ and His Kingdom ... a NEW set of rules applies.  We are NEW creatures according to Scripture.  There is a NEW reason for living.  Old attitudes, behaviors, and agendas need to fade into the new creation that the Holy Spirit is forming within us ... IF we say we believe.  Jus' sayin.

So, Christians ... quit being mean!  Get over your SELF and start loving others for who they are created to become in light of God's love, the Gospel, and His Kingdom.  You'll be surprised at how refreshing, and how creative, and how holy it will feel to just be nice!

Why I Love Mark Driscoll

Mark Driscoll resigned his position as pastor of Mars Hill Church, Seattle, this weekend.  The Christian media hype has been mind-numbing for quite some time now.

Mark has made it crystal clear since he entered ministry, that he comes from a very abusive and dangerous childhood experience, noting that many of his weaknesses and faults are due to his journey of faith to overcome those hardships and the personal character flaws which accompany that type upbringing.

Mark has also been extremely candid in his ministry style, especially when he preaches or teaches from the platform or pulpit.  He has never seemed to mince words or hold back a male-chauvinist opinion, which is why he's facing some of the challenges he's facing today.  Mark states that the pulpit is sacred ground, so he highly regards the opportunity to shepherd his flock (congregation) known as Mars Hill Church, now a multi-campus mega-church numbering into the 10s-of-thousands of members.  Mark has stated consistently, that he was 'not ready' for the demands of leadership in his young 20s, when Mars Hill Church began to explode beyond his expectations.

As an author, Mark has included his wife and family into the storyline of their journey, noting their difficult decisions to correct their personal flaws as they attempt to lead a church that has literally exploded with growth in a region of the U.S. which has been quite resistant to the Bible, to Christ-centered Gospel theology, and to Christianity as a belief system in general.  Their accomplishments in ministry have been impressive to say the least.

I LOVE MARK DRISCOLL because he's a REAL GUY.  I've been told by some close friends that I almost resemble Mark in my 'looks'.  HA!!  I'm a 5ft-11in, 220lb guy with a raspy tenor voice, and I'm known to all family and friends as a bit of a cut-up, sometimes crude, most of the time unpredictable and impulsive, and by my doctor's diagnosis -- adult ADHD.  Not sure how closely that resembles Mark, but that's me.

The REASONS that I love Mark Driscoll for his life and ministry are many, but I'll name a few in this quick blog:

1.  MANHOOD.  Mark celebrates God's grand design of manhood.  Guys are guys.  Or, at least they're supposed to be.  Men are wired by God to fight, to chase dreams, to win battles, to take their reward, and to melt in the arms of a truly beautiful woman with whom they dream of sharing life with.  That's what REAL guys do.  They live out fairy tales to the best of their God-given abilities.

2.  GUTS.  Mark has real "guts".  He doesn't appear to be afraid to boldy state his claims, his beliefs, his opinions, and -- until recent 'corrective' disciplines demanded of him -- he really was not all that concerned with how you FELT about his courageous stand.  We need more Christian guys today who will STAND up and fight for what they believe in; even when it calls for 'corrective' discipline at times.

3.  HUMILITY.  Mark has displayed an uncanny humility through the correction process, at least the most recent process mandated by Acts 29 Network during the 2014 calendar year.  His emotional statement to his home church this past weekend conveys a truly repentant and subdued spirit.  Well, that's my opinion on his statement.  I'm sure critics and non-fans will eat him alive on some of the details of the speech.

4.  VISION.  Mark speaks consistently throughout this process of his love for his family, for Mars Hill Church, for Jesus, and for the yet unsaved and unreached peoples of the nations who he dreams will discover the amazing Grace of God that is found through personal relationship with Jesus.  Mark's vision seems to never waver; and that takes incredible fortitude and persistence in the wake of such difficult personal challenges.


My "love" for Mark Driscoll will draw the ire of many who say they are my 'friends' -- and especially those hyper-critics in 'ministry' who just love the legalistic correction process.  I could lose connection with some who call me a social 'moderate' and at best a theological simpleton.  Bring it.  I've dealt with those who don't 'like me' for more than four decades in ministry.  In fact, take a number!  I'll do my best to pray for you during my quiet time meditation, and hopefully I'll show you grace and mercy should we meet at the grocery; but, no promises pal!  (( ha ))

Mark, if per chance you read this, please know that a small town country boy Gospel singer turned 'worship leader' for churches on the Gulf Coast LOVES you, and I'm praying for you.  I love your attitude about this whole mess, and I pray that God gives you, Grace, and your precious family  a much-needed SABBATICAL ... or REST season ... or, whatever you guys are calling it.

As for the rest of us who are broken, messed up, jars of clay who feel like God called us into ministry ... we could learn much from Mark.  He seems to have a truly repentant heart about his anger, his chauvinism, his struggles in marriage, and his inability to effectively lead his congregation at this time.

Lord, help us all who claim your Name and who call others to You ... that we might LOVE one another through difficulties, through failures, through trials and temptations, and through assaults from the enemy himself ... as we press towards the mark of the high calling of the Gospel.  (Phillipians 3:14)

That is all ... for now.  Carry on.   #LoveWins

Oliver - Our Beloved MaltiPoo

Christmas 2006.

My little family was preparing for our second Christmas celebration following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina which landed on August 29, 2005.  What a surreal nightmare!

So, we're surfing the web 'shopping' for a puppy, since our children had begged and begged for years for a pet -- and, specifically a puppy.  And, then -- as we hoped and 'shopped' -- there appeared our little Oliver.

He was born near Alexandria, LA to a litter of Maltese-Poodle mix babies, and his 'caramel-chocolate' mix of hair stole our hearts!  We made the necessary arrangments for 'Santa' to deliver him on Christmas morning, and oh what a celebration that Christmas morning in the Myrick house!

Oliver quickly became the 'diva' in the house, and commanded our attention, love, care, and FOOD!  We had not cared for a 'baby' for many years in our house, so Oliver brought all the daily tasks of caring for an infant back into our world, if only for a season.

After a couple years, it became very obvious to the entire family, connected family, and close friends, that Oliver was 'one of us'.  He knew how to communicate with us in ways that we would have never expected.  He provided many nights of spontaneous entertainment as he would 'wallow' in our blankets and throws on the sofa or bed, wrestle around the floor or bed with us, and RUN ... wow, could Oliver RUN!!

His doctors quickly informed us that Oliver was a RUNNER, so we'd need to be very careful when walking him out in the open and away from the house.  And, boy were they right!  Many times, we would take him out on his leash to 'walk', and before we were a few steps out the door -- there he'd GO!  What fun!!

Yesterday, we said Goodbye to our sweet Oliver.  His liver and pancreas had begun to fail after only 8 short years.  His last few days with us were certainly not like his first 7-1/2 years with us.  His passion for love, play, and food simply left him.  He could only give us sad, longing looks of pain and despair.  That is NOT how we would have wanted him to exist.  So, alas, we are still saying "Goodbye, sweet Oliver".

As our family grieves through our loss, it is increasingly evident to me, that God wants me to slow down, think before I speak, and consider the 'weak' and 'helpless' more often.  Oliver was not a 'big dog' in stature  and frame by any means.  He could bark a loud bark!  But, he would whimper and run at the 'big dog' barking reply of the neighbor dogs in a heartbeat.  And, it made us laugh just to watch it play out.

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, " ... come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest".

As we bring our weariness and burdens to Jesus, we are asking Him to allow us the Grace to remember Oliver well and to learn from the funny, cozy, loving, and playful times we experienced with him.  We believe God gave us Oliver.  We actually prayed for a good pet that would bring joy, laughter, love, and meaning to the lives of our children and family.  Oliver was ALL those things to us.

So, too all pet lovers ... we now better understand your lives.  Today we grieve. Tomorrow, maybe our pain will subside, and with each day, a little more.  We sure did love Oliver, and we pray that if he does get to meet us in Heaven, that he's having a blast playing around 'doggie heaven' ... until we meet again, we love you our sweet Oliver.

StudentLife2014 - Stetson University, Deland FL


In America, it's become the annual summer pilgrimage for most church youth groups.  Hop on the church bus/van or caravan to the most affordable student camp and spend a few days in worship, Bible study, recreation, team-building, and connecting with other students from across the region or nation.

Our home church, Ingalls Avenue Baptist Church, has chosen StudentLife as our youth camp of choice for the past nearly 10 years.  The staff and leadership are over-the-top excellent leaders and they simply OOZE the love of Christ for students and pastors.

This year, our camp date had to reschedule to accommodate mandated calendar changes within our Mississippi school systems, so our plan for a late July camp became a 'hurry-up-get-ready' plan for late June.  Wow.  We had NO idea what God had in store for us!

Student Life at Stetson University was our choice where we met Sam Bhatt and again enjoyed the worship music of Bellarive.  God showed up.  We encountered the LORD Himself in worship along with a thousand other students.  As a local church group, during our Quiet Times and Family Group Bible study moments, we were faced with the choices to dig deeper, love one another more authentically, make life-changing decisions to step it up in our Christian journey, and bottom line:  TAKE A STAND for Christ, no matter what life throws at us.

Today, we are home after a hot, sticky, bus-engine-repair laden trip from Deland FL to Pascagoula MS.  The journey to south central Florida was a long and hot humid ride.  The expectation of camp made the ride all worth it.  The journey home took 4-hours longer than expected because of mechanical failure on the bus.  And, yes -- it was ALL worth it!

GOD changed our hearts at StudentLife2014.  The challenge today:  REMEMBER what God did in you at StudentLife2014.  ENDURE hardship.  CHOOSE joy.  REMAIN humble and obedient.

Already looking forward to StudentLife2015!

Happy Fathers Day

Traditionally an American holiday, the first Father's Day celebration dates back to 1908 in Spokane, WA.  The festivities do not carry quite the allure of Mother's Day celebrations, however it is certainly an opportunity to give thanks and appreciation for those men who fill the role of "Dad" in our lives.

John Eldredge states that "The Power Of The Father Wound" may be the most significant cause for the debris of brokenness that is felt by most men who struggle with addictions, anxieties, worries, and a plethora of unhealthy emotions.  Of course, the battle with sinful behaviors is that which leads to destruction and ultimately, for some, untimely and unexpected death.   The fact is, guys, often we simply blow it.  We fail to meet the expectations of our spouses, our children, our employers, and our closest friends.  Maybe our 'father figure' failed us, or even hurt us.  Maybe the pain is too unspeakable to even recall.

Jesus said of Himself, " ... Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." ~ John 14:27   He is referring to the Peace that the Father will send through His Holy Spirit, our Advocate.   Jesus makes the promise to his followers that His Father will send Peace for those who trust in Him.  He said that if you had seen Him, you had seen his Father.  He simply modeled what His Father did ... and He still does.

Dads, I pray that you have an awesome Father's Day weekend with your family.  I hope you rest and enjoy your favorite hobby or activity.  More important, I pray that you findPEACE ... as only The Father can give to those who follow Jesus.  I promise, you're gonna need it in this life!

think

think verb \ˈthiŋk\
: to believe that something is true, that a particular situation exists, that something will happen, etc.
: to have an opinion about someone or something
: to form or have (a particular thought) in your mind


Anyone who has read the Bible at all, will discover God's deep desire that humans think.  He has designed us as intellectual creatures with a mind, will, and emotions; and He deeply desires that we think about Him, about His desires, about His Word, about His Way of eternal life and purpose, about His Good News!

Jesus asked people often, " ... what do you think?".  Our thoughts will determine why we believe what we believe; and ultimately how we will choose to live this life, and more important, how we will prepare for the life that follows this earthly existence.

Many of us obsess in our thought life over the cares, concerns, worries, and anxieties of this earth; some of us to the point of actually thinking ourselves into patterns of depression and all sorts of emotional turmoil.  On the other hand, I know many people who have learned how to take every thought captive, as Scripture teaches, and keep their minds stayed on Him.

So, I will ask: what do you think?  Meaning, what thoughts are you allowing to captivate and to dominate your daily mental and emotional exercise?  What do you think about when you formulate your opinions and beliefs?  If your thought life does not lend itself primarily to what God thinks, what He wants, and how He feels ... then, don't expect much of His Presence in your life.  And, do not be surprised when life throws it's muck and yuck at you, and you have no clue how to 'call on the Name of the Lord'.  You haven't spent much time thinkin' bout Him.

However, that can change TODAY.  Think about it!

Trust. Do Good. Prosper.

Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. (Psalm 37:3-4 NLT)

I love reading the Psalms.  The writings of [King] David reveal a man whose heart and soul had really lived.  David's life is an epic story of mystery, adventure, romance, battle, glory, fame, failure, destruction, heartache, scandal, glory, and legacy.  Sounds like modern day reality TV, huh?!

When I read of David's childhood, his anointing from Samuel, his rugged warrior life, his rise to glory and kingship, his epic adventures in battle and romance, his very public failures and sins, and his ultimate legacy, I am reminded of one of my all time favorite films -- Braveheart --  featuring Mel Gibson as Sir William Wallace, the legendary freedom fighter for Scotland's people.

When David, the shepherd-warrior-poet-king, pens the words " ... do good ... live safely ... prosper ... take delight in the LORD ...", I have to believe this man knew from the depths of his soul what he was passing along to future generations.

Today, I want to be man after God's own heart, like David.  I want to be a freedom fighter, like William Wallace.  So, am I willing to fight like David fought?  Am I willing to admit when I have publicly and privately failed those who trust me most?  Am I willing to stand for justice and possibly become a national martyr like Wallace was?  Are you?

If we are to win this generation to Christ, we must take up our swords and fight, and I'm not talking about brandishing man-made weapons, I'm referring to fighting from our knees and with heads bowed in humility to the LORD.   We must take a stand when others cower.  We need godly warriors in the Church.  The days of passive, sing-me-happy, preach-me-glad, make-me-comfy, normal church must end.  We must become freedom fighters for our children and their children and their children's children.  That's where epic adventures and legacies come from.

O God, give us the courage and strength of our forefathers, that we might fight the good fight, stay the course, and win the prize of the high calling of Christ.

Happy New Year 2014

Yep -- I chose a "Red Christmas Ball" for this blog post.  My wife, Sheryl ... LOVES (infinitum!) ... the color RED.  So, the pic is for you, my dear!

2014 is here.  And, most of the folks in my circle of friends, associates, and community are expecting, or at least, hoping -- for a better year than 2013 proved to be.  And I concur!

2013 was yet another year of transition for our little crew.  We entered into worship and music ministry with Ingalls Avenue Baptist Church to our great delight; we tackled crucial personal and business financial decisions; we became even more familiar with the weekly tasks of care-giving for aging parents; we began the 'journey' into middle school and high school band parent/booster club activities with our 8th grade percussionist Cameron; we are preparing Christian's college graduation from University of Southern Mississippi this coming May; and, we desperately seek for every opportunity we can muster to make the I-65 ride north to visit family and friends in north Alabama and Tennessee.  (( whew!! ))

As we chime in the new year, I have several thoughts stirring in this crazy ADHD brain of mine.  Bear with me if you will.  Here we go: 


HOPE ...
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.  May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in You.  - Psalm 33:21-22 (NIV)

One my all-time favorite songs was a hit for Alicia Williamson and TRUTH, the super-vocal group of Christian music:  There Is A Hope

Hope does not depend on only what is seen ... Hope is found believing in His Name.  I love that line!!

It is my firm conviction that if we ever lose HOPE for better days, especially when we've endured great hardship, then we give way to the enemy of our souls, and our days here on earth are drawing to a close much faster than we had wished for.  Keep HOPE alive in your life this year!


JOY ...
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”  At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.  All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” - Luke 10:20-22 (NIV)

I've heard that little cliche statement all my life in my little PK (preacher's kid) world, " ... the Joy of the Lord is our strength ...".  And it's true!  I cannot tell you how many times over the past few years we have found ourselves in the midst of great turmoil, grief, loss, hopelessness, and human despair.  When all of a sudden, as we reminded ourselves -- through the power of the Holy Spirit within -- that our JOY was not based on the circumstances we found ourselves in; but rather our JOY is based in the Truths of the Word of God which come alive in our spirits when we dwell on those Truths, speak those Truths to one another, and live by those Truths by the power of His Holy Spirit!

Here's a fun Gospel clip from my friends Karen Peck & New River with Joy Gardner and the Gaithers ... JOY In My Heart!


LOVE ...
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. - 1 John 4:11 (ESV)

This year I turned 50.  A friend and accountability partner recently reminded me that I've reached that point in life referred to by one author as "Halftime".  I'll take that!

The longer I live on this old earth, the more I am overwhelmed by God's love.  " ... For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son ..." - John 3:16 (ESV)

Wow.  If God can love me like I am -- certainly I can find a way to love others, if even for the mere fact that they too are God's creation.

Songs, poems, creeds, chronicles of history, and of course Holy Scriptures have been produced out of the context and human experience of God's love, brotherly love, romantic love, and compassionate love.

Yep ... another tune!  A few years ago I hosted an afternoon "drive time" radio show in Mobile AL.  I had a great opportunity to "spin" the top Christian tunes of that season as I shared devotional thoughts, interviews with guest artists and local personalities.  One of my fav's was this catchy hit from Jadon Lavik ... enjoy Wondrous Love

SO ... I hope that you experience great joy and give away lots of love this year!  Let's all do our part to make it a #Blessed2014


Robby

Southern Gospel In The South

Southern Gospel Music has vastly changed it's sound, it's brand, and it's marketing appeal over the past two decades.  It's not the same music that I learned from Mama's living room piano, and it's not the same music that stirred my soul to receive Jesus as my Savior as a young boy in small town USA.  Maybe it's because I just turned "50" and the aging thing has begun to creep up on me -- but, I think I have a point here.  Bear with me.

Southern Gospel, as a musical genre, has it's roots in middle Tennessee with the appearance of the James D. Vaughn Music Publishing Company and radio broadcasts. circa 1900

Recently, the 'Gospel Giant' radio station which had broadcast to our beautiful Gulf Coast region for more than 40 years, sold to a mega-talk radio giant from upstate, and with sound fiscal reasoning given the owners' aging and health issues.  The Coopers who founded and broadcast from WOSM 103.1FM are personal friends and will very likely receive a plethora of crowns in Heaven when they meet our Heavenly Father.

Those crowns will be quietly and humbly laid at the feet of Jesus.  I have a hunch there will be thousands upon thousands of redeemed souls in Heaven alongside the Coopers whose lives were forever changed by the Gospel they heard from the airwaves on WOSM radio's broadcasts.

It is now Fall 2013.  More than 100 years since Southern Gospel was discovered in America.  On our beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast -- there exists less than a half dozen recognizable and reasonably well-marketed Christian radio formats.  Most of the 'gospel' music that permeates today's airwaves is geared towards middle-age and young adult 'soccer moms' who demand Family-Friendly programming as an alternative to the onslaught of hedonistic 'reality' TV and near pornographic Pop/Rock and Hip-Hop/Rap music.

Men and 'dads' are consumed with the ever-growing Talk Radio industry, which now fills the airwaves 24/7 with everything from 'no-spin' Conservative viewpoint blah-blah-blah to hometown rants over Big Government, to local high school sports scores, to the latest local scandal or controversy.

I must be honest with you.  I LOVE Southern Gospel Music.  And, I miss hearing that music most days.  Call me mushy sentimental.  Call me Bible-belt super-spiritual.  Call me old-fashioned.  I LOVE Southern Gospel Music.  And, I don't think I'm alone.

Recently, I asked a couple of buddies who love Southern Gospel to come alongside me and sing some of our favorite tunes for our church families and for a few community events.  We quickly realized that we are not alone!  There are still a few hundred folks like us who LOVE Southern Gospel.

I am reminded each time I sing 'the old songs' that Granny taught me as a child, just how beautiful the words and melodies were then, and how incredibly relevant they are NOW.  In an increasingly dark and gloomy world of famine, war, corruption, wicked behavior, and yes -- sin -- outright rebellion towards God -- I will declare it from the mountaintops ... I LOVE SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC!

Keep listening ... you're gonna hear more of it on your Gulf Coast!  With God's Grace, a little help from my friends, and a few hundred supporters of the cause ... Southern Gospel Music will survive on the Mississippi Gulf Coast!

Governor Phil Bryant comments on U.S. education decline

Today, I commented on Facebook, regarding Governor Bryant's broadcast interview during an education forum in Washington DC.

After reviewing the videos of the interview again this evening and after re-reading the media coverage of this event, I feel that I need to clarify my point.

Governor Bryant seems to be the type of leader for Mississippi, who sincerely desires the BEST for families. I've not personally met Governor Bryant, but what I read and hear from him seems to suggest that he has deeply rooted faith in God, in the core values of family and community, and in conservative morality.

That said, I stand by my belief that the culture of our 'deep South', and specifically the attitudes of Southern Conservative leaders -- no matter their role or industry -- suggests that there remains an alarming divide between the 'haves' and the 'have-nots' in our fair State.  Obviously, we all would want to agree that those who work hard, live productively, and 'do good' deserve the best of what life offers.  Right?

Well, most of us even here in the good ole USA realize that life does not always 'produce' the best for those who work hard, produce, and 'do good'.  Sadly, many in Mississippi are still living in great poverty and strife.  And, this breaks the hearts of those of us who are driven to compassion and dignity by our faith.

My sweet wife works in our fine city's public school system as an assistant teacher.  The student registry at her campus represents pretty accurately the diversity of race, economics, and culture of our city and region.  Her co-workers will attest that the children who attend our public schools are among the finest, most well-educated and well-behaved you can find in Mississippi.  We work very hard to encourage, inspire, and train our children well here.

We certainly don't suffer from extreme poverty in our fine city, but it exists nearby.  Homeless people walk our streets and invade private properties in our city.  Some of our children do in fact grow up to become 'career' criminals -- but that number is quite minimal.

Many precious children in our city go to bed hungry every night.  Most of those children live in homes where there exist tremendous emotional, financial, and yes -- moral dilemmas.  Single moms and dads work longer and longer work weeks, sometimes three jobs at once, just to keep the bills paid and the hungry mouths fed.  And, yes ... it is 2013 in America.  Shame on us for allowing these dreadful conditions to exist, if there is truly help wanted and needed in these homes.

I pray that Governor Bryant and all our Mississippi legislators and leaders are able to help us to become better at the task of educating our children, creating opportunities for success, and breeding an atmosphere in Mississippi which is conducive for such success.

There are many wonderful opportunities to succeed in Mississippi, despite the stereotypes from the turbulent 60s or the mocking and jeers of the pundits.

I was born and 'reared' in South Mississippi.  Much of my childhood experiences included living, working, and playing the 'Huck Finn' life on my grandfathers' farms.  I will be 50 years old this year, and have lived through some of Mississippi's worst history; but, I've also seen great progress and advancement in our great Magnolia State.

I love Mississippi and the 'working Moms' who made this a wonderful place to grow up, learn the truths of God's Holy Word, sing the songs of the South, and develop self-discipline and the good old Southern hospitality that people from all over the world have come to love about our little corner of the globe.

God's blessings on you Governor Bryant.  And on all Mississippians who desire to see our children grow up to be the greatest leaders in the world as we know it.

Mardi Gras Monday

Bigger than the Economy | jamesrobison.net

Bigger than the Economy | jamesrobison.net

::: how He loves :::

We are loving this song at our church. The story behind the song grips me. Feedback welcome. Here's the story: http://www.worshipleader.com/index.cfm?tdc=dsp&page=features_detail&aid=183

worship

This was on my heart this morning ...

There is a very obvious resurgence of what I call "Jesus movement" style of worship within the church. The Gen-X'ers and Millennials (under age 30) are simply not going to "do church" the way their forefathers did.

Not that they don't appreciate their history and lineage, but they are a majority "fatherless" generation. Doesn't mean they don't have an earthly 'Dad'; but in many cases their 'dad' has been absent from the emotional and spiritual places in their lives.

This generation is seeking more than a Sovereign Creator or Mystical Cosmic Warlord ... they want a 'dad'.

I believe that "Abba Father" is pouring out His Spirit -- of refreshing, of peace, of love and forgiveness -- on all flesh, as Scripture promised.

In response, this generation is willing to "come near" to that Father-figure like never before. If we - the Church - won't get in the way and blur the picture ... God will do something supernatural in our nation ... again!

Study the historical spiritual awakenings in America ... 1750s - 1900 ... see if you don't think God's up to the same type of stuff in the USA ... again! And, WORSHIP ... is at the center of it all.

It's not about the "how", but rather the "why". If we know "why" we worship Almighty God ... then, "how" we offer Him our praise, our adoration, and our service to fellow man will fall into place.

Fear ... or Hope?

Economy Shrinks at Fastest Pace in 26 Years ...

Staying The Course Might Not Work For Everyone ...

Economic Numbers Continue Down ...

Do you find yourself getting "lost" in the negative rhetoric of the daily headlines? It's easy to let what "they" say cause you to fear ... rather than hope.

I like what Dave Ramsey published recently,

" ... Yes, many people have lost their jobs and houses. You may be one of them. But guess what? People have lost their jobs and houses even in a bull market. About 93% of people are still employed. That's pretty good!"

Amen, Dave! I agree.

If we're not careful, we'll let the pundits and nay-sayers 'drive' our emotions ... rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts and emotions, through the renewing and refreshing of God's Word.

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Tim. 1:7)

We can choose fear ... or hope. I'm gonna choose hope!

What is Lent?

... the forty days before Easter. Lent excludes Sundays because every Sunday is like a little Easter. Basically, it's about one-tenth of a year (like a tithe of time).

What does Lent have to do with me?

It's pretty easy to get caught up in the drama of work, school, relationships, and family. Our lives are filled with distractions that take us away from living a life with Christ. We try to fill the emptiness inside us with mindless TV, meaningless chatter, stimulants, alcohol or other things.

We run from silence because we're afraid of being alone with God. So, like Jesus, we need to take some serious time to pray and figure out where God is in our lives, and where God is calling us to serve. We need to re-focus our lives to be more in line with God.

COOL THINGS TO DO FOR LENT:

• Skip one meal a day and give the money to the poor


• Start a prayer "rhythm." Say a prayer every time you brush your teeth, see a commercial, or check your e-mail


• Read a chapter in the Bible a day. (Matthew is a good book to start with)


• Forgive someone who doesn't deserve it (maybe even yourself)


• Give up beer or sodas. Give the money you save to the Red Cross
• Spend thirty minutes a day in silence


• Write someone a thank you letter


• Say one nice thing to someone each day


• Pray for others on your way to work or school


• Volunteer one afternoon a week at a local shelter, tutoring program or Habitat for Humanity

Originally published by author Penny Ford, United Methodist campus minister at Jacksonville State University in Alabama. Link: http://www.upperroom.org/methodx/thelife/articles/lent101.asp

New Things

Isaiah 43:19 reads,

"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (NIV)

Our pastor, James Twiner, has been preaching and teaching this message to our congregation at First United Methodist Pascagoula for the past year or so, and the spirit of that message has become contagious!

There is a "newness" in the spirits of our congregation at First UMC and it's catching hold of the folks all around our small town. In fact, if you listen closely and read the coastal newsprint and magazines ... that "new" thing is catching hold of folks all across the Coast!

I am glad to see that the LORD brings "new" excitement and enthusiasm from "old" and "tired" situations. St. Paul instructs in Galatians 6:9 that we " ... not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Harvest time is near ... in Pascagoula ... and in YOUR hometown. The questions beckons us all:

Are we [the Church] prepared to reap the harvest?

I'm saying to me ... to us - the Church of the LORD Jesus Christ ... GET READY! The harvest is here ... the kingdom of God is near!