It Doesn't Stop

Day 40 Doxology:  Well, another year of praise God moment through the season of Lent.  I can't help but to think of the years of looking for God and that special moment of praise, and all the very special people that commented, were inspired, and strengthened me to continue searching for that special moment!

Today, I share my moments of praise with many the people in my church and community, and my personal family.

I praised God with my church family and community in the celebration of a Seder meal.  The image you see is the gym full of people tell the story of God and God's people over through the years acted out in bitter herbs, scripture, communion, and dancing.  There was a great meal and tons of helping disciples in service.  And, I got to share all of that with my immediate family.

J-3 and her roomy, Charlee, came home from school to spend Easter weekend with us.  It's funny how much a blessing it was to see her room so messy the moment she entered the house!  So, J-3 made the blog!  She came in just under the wire to make this dad say praise God.

So whether we've share praise God moments together this year or last, maybe even that first year a long time ago...thank you!  Just like Easter would be pointless with Jesus; these blogs would be nothing without each of you!  I Praise God for so much and it doesn't stop at Easter!

Holy Ground

Day 39 Doxology: This image was shared with me, and I cannot got it off my mind...not for what you see but what it represents.

This is the entrance to a friend's parent's property.  When his dad got sick, friends rallied around him in support for his lengthy battle with healing.  Some days were better than others.  Some days were unbearable, but he never failed to praise God through it all.  He was witness like I've never seen before.

If you have land in the south, you most likely have had to deal with a "No Trespassing" sign at some point. People have a way of wandering onto your property and often fail to take care of your land like you would.  They might try to hunt not knowing how close they might be to your home or family.  They seem to always leave trash or other evidence of their invasion.  But then there are your friends.

When the sickness was diagnosed, his church family and friends rallied around him and placed the sign "Holy Ground" at the gated entrance.  This sign was to remind everyone that on Holy ground anything can happen.

This weekend is Easter, and many people will come to our church's entrances looking for signs!  What will they see?  Will they see signs that remind them that they need permission to infringe on the space of others, or will they see signs that say this is Holy Ground and here is where anything is possible!

Can I Get An Amen?

Day 35 Doxology:  Some things transcend an image of an extreme high point of one's day.  Things like the smell after the rain that reminded you of a time you were excitedly waiting to go out and play as a child; the memory of old friendship and the high-points of your life that you share together; the way you felt while you stared at your sleeping child and realized that there will never be a more peaceful image.  How about, when your daughter writes a newsletter article about you and God at the church she serves in San Antonio?

Today was full of close to God moments or praises, but none were equal to the "Praise God" moment I received when J-1 forwarded her church's newsletter article to her mom.

As parents age, or at least as I get older, I think back and ponder on the things I could have done better...I ask myself, was I too hard on my children, did I work too much, did I teach them everything they will need in life?  I have a ton of questions none of which are greater than will they remain in relationship with God?  I just didn't want to mess up ministry for them.

Another high priority for me is will they think I was a good dad!  I love my dad, and he did everything I mentioned earlier, and I look back at our relationship, and I am certain that he was a great dad with high ethics and morals, and most importantly...he loved me!

So, it is highly important that my girls know that I love them!  And, in their own way I am proud of who they are, and who they are becoming!  I am the luckiest dad in the world, and if they only remember the good stuff, and forget my failures then I am the luckiest dad alive!  Tonight, I praise God for J-1, for who she is, and who she has become, and the great work God is doing through her!  Can I get an Amen?!?!?

Don't Waste the Beauty!

Day 34 Doxology: I love this time of year.  Everything is coming alive, the colors are vibrant and rich.  However, it seems like the colors of the prettiest foliage does not last.

A few mornings ago, I was met with the Azalea Bushes outside our home coming alive to meet spring. It was like they bloomed over-night, and in my surprise, I think I uttered a quick "Praise God" in respect of their beauty. Then my next thought was how long will their beauty last?  It was almost like I couldn't enjoy the birth of their beauty for the dread of their death. Now we all know the bush doesn't die, but the flowers of the Azalea are short lived.  It's not long before they darken up, dry up, and fall off.  What's left is just a bush.

It made me think about this time of year, more precisely Holy Week. What if we approached our love of Christ with the same attitude that I used to view my Azalea Bushes.  What if the beauty of our relationship with Jesus was shortened by the realization that he was born to die!

Praise God!  Praise God that His love for me was so great that He wants my eternal focus to be on more about life than death, and praise God that He has made that life possible!  Don't waste the beauty for fearing the death!  He has risen, he has risen indeed!

Appreciation -Both Ways

Day 31 Doxology: Tonight was a serious Praise God moment for many reasons.  Tonight Bill and I were honored to be invited to The Gideon's International's annual Pastor's Appreciation Dinner.  The food is always better than good, the speakers are always entertaining and informative, and the fellowship is always supreme!

Shannon even found out that she went to high school with one of the speaker's daughter and taught his grand-daughters.  Small world!

When the Gideon's share all the great work that they do.  For instance, it is amazing that they print their NT Bibles in well over 100 different languages.  Additionally, they are working on their 3rd billion of printed copies.  The seed was planted for the Gideon's ministry in 1898, and have been an extension of the church all over the world.  They have worked incredibly hard to make this a smaller world so that the Kingdom of God can be larger, but tonight the emphasis was the pastors!

Isom's Chapel has a proud history with The Gideon's and tonight it showed.  So, this group is my doxology for today.  They fed Bill, myself and our spouses, then they praised us and prayed over us!  It's a great evening of appreciation -both ways!

Love Regardless!

Day 29 Doxology:  Today's doxology is enough to make the most bold person misty-eyed.

Our very own IMS (Isom's Mission Society) ventured to Birdie Thornton Center for our annual service opportunity.  I cannot tell you what a blessing this brief time with the Birdie residents is for me.  Many of you know that I have cousins that are handicap and over the years I have grown to love what it is they teach me about myself and others!

At the center, our role is simple...have a great time!  That I can do, right!  We feed them a snack, sing to them and with them, all while a puppet show is being hi-lighted! Here is what has grown as a huge attraction over these 2 short years with my appointment with Isom's Chapel and our time with Birdie -Alabama Football!  It's silly to think about how attracted they have become to Alabama football.  In many ways, regardless of their handicap, they are no different than you or me!  Except maybe in one way -unconditional love!

If you don't love Alabama football it's not a deal breaker, if you love Auburn you still yell "Roll Tide" when prompted.  If you are an Alabama Fan, you yell "War Eagle" when prompted!  They seem to just love...regardless!  Like my cousins, they could teach us something about ourselves and others, don't you think?

They remind us that we were given a more simplified plan to the gospel?  I think that is what Jesus presented...the rich young ruler asked, what must I do, and we could all hear Jesus say, hang on!  It's crazy simpler than that...here is what I think you should remember..."Love God, and Love Neighbor!"  For the devout Jew this statement satisfied all the commandments, for both you and me it includes everything thing we need!  Love...regardless!

Every year with Birdie, our final song is Lee Greenwood, God Bless the USA.  It comes with a standing ovation, hand on heart, sung at the top of their voice.  They are proud Americans, could we learn something yet again?

I pray that I can love unconditionally like the residence of Birdie Thornton.  I pray I grow enough to care for my brother or sister and their love of their college's fight song enough to sing it with them.  I pray that at the end of the day, I can be united just like residents singing Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA!"  I pray, I can Love Regardless!  Praise Be to God!

God Speaks!

Day 28 doxology:  This blog comes on the heels of a break from my `doxology post and this weekend's worship!  Which is amusing...doxologies shouldn't be something that deserves a break if you do not feel God speak!!

This morning I kissed my wife goodbye for work and then went about my day.  Between you and me. I couldn't delete the smell of our morning, and our kick-start day's kiss.  In light of our mornings, I cannot omit the passion that is smothered by the demand of week-day work.  In the end our of week, our love is stronger than ever!

I realize this could be perceived as a lot of puff to distract from our goal..a 'Praise to God" moment to share with others!

Here it is...I am a pastor.  We are privilege to live in a parsonage provided by the church I serve.  We are blessed!  Hear me say...we are blessed!  Also, hear me say I am blessed!

I am blessed because of the yin and yang of my life -My wife.  She tolerates the duties in my life that I cannot. In return, I happily do the things in our life that she cannot, yet it always works!  Yet, WE always work!

Today's doxology image is an image of Jonesy resolving a need...

Parsonage life can be uncomfortable with a difficult church. However, Isom's Chapel has been anything but, we love our home and our church!  Even if you have a great relationship between church and family...needs arise.

Today image reflects a small example of those needs!  I'll say there is an underestimation of the role of our help-mates! We have replace the door-knobs that we inherited and happy to do so!  My thoughts are...Shannon painted and then changed out the door knobs to match the kitchen cabinets and an over-all deco presentation.  It's a picture that I wouldn't get...unless?

Unless she replaced the scripture given to us from the door-hanger from Jeremiah 33:3, Call to me, and I will answer you!

1)The scripture helps us thru our needs.
2) My wife is so eager to do...

I want to say this...listen and you might hear God speak...then we will sing, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow..."

Just Means More!

Day 27 Doxology:  Not to steal a line from the SEC, but some day's doxology just means more!  That is the way I feel about today's!

I spent all day at an Emmaus Team Meeting, then I spoke to a youth group at another church in my community and couldn't wait to get home to share this post with each of you.  I am certain that it will not conjure the same emotion in you that it does for me, but then again...this is my Doxology Blog and my "praise be to God!"

Today's doxology is a partial screenshot of a message sent to me while at today's team meeting. 

What is going on in this picture?  1) Are we auditioning as patients on a dentist commercial? 2) Was I in pain because I sprained my knee? 3) Was Christen sneezing? 3) Was Christen choking on a bug?  4) Were we seeing how wide we could open our mouth? 5) Was I hissing and Christen gargling with mouthwash? 6) Why am I wearing a GoPro on my head? 7) Who wrecked on their bicycle barely visible in the bottom of the screenshot?  So many unanswered questions...maybe there are more!

We had just returned from a baptism in a river deep in the woods for some better-than-amazing people.  I've got pictures of these three ladies being baptized while young children climb in and out of the water around us on the rocks. That day had something for everyone, mainly God, maybe me!  We hiked out and back, and we laughed!  But...that's what we did, often...laughed!

My family and her's would sit for hours after worship on leather couches talking and laughing about life.  We would discuss topics that people were afraid of discussing.  We really cared about what was going on in each other's lives, and here is what I know (what I learned)...to say it was ministry would dilute what our families shared...to call it ministry wouldn't do it just, which is probably what God intended all along!

Also, here is what I noticed over those several hours investing in our friendship...I loved our conversations, but I really, really loved to make her laugh!  When this sweet girl laughed....life was just better.  God puts people in your life to remind you how good it is to love...And there are people in your life that just mean more!  Whether she will admit it or not, she is Christ to me, and today's doxology, because she just means more!

P.R.A.I.S.E. Award

Day 26 Doxology: Let me start by saying yes, Shannon is today's doxology yet again!

Although these pictures were taken yesterday, I didn't see Shannon's post until this morning, and everything after that failed in comparison.  When I was in school, it was never a good thing if the principal and/or assistant principal came to my home.  Wow, has things changed!

A new initiative to help celebrate students that excel in six characteristic was launched yesterday at Hazel Green Elementary!  Students that are nominated by their teacher are visited by Shannon and her principal Dr. Jones and receive the P.R.A.I.S.E. award.  The P.R.A.I.S.E. awards stands for Participate, Reliable, Attitude, Independence, Selfless, and Enjoyable.  I cannot imagine the joy that was shared around the dinner table that evening at each home they visited.  However, that is only part of my doxology!

Every stage of my adult life has been made better because of my wife.  She planted the seed to return to school when we first met.  As a result I worked in Nuclear Medicine for years.  Then when I felt called into ministry, and when I told her she said, "Well, that is what we'll do then!"  It has seemed like she has always been the greatest help-mate that God could have ever gifted me.

In every one of my appointments, her focus has been on how could she help to make ministry better for me; it's never been about her.  And, so when I look at this post, all I see is a wonderful change-agent in a child's life, and really in the all the lives around her, because she is infectious!

The Talmud says, "He who saves a single life, saves the world entire."  Shannon is saving a community, by saving families, by saving a single child! When I was in school, administrators hardly left their offices let alone deliver balloons to the home of their students!  I could never be more proud of a her for living out her calling the way that she does!  Today she wins my P.R.A.I.S.E. award!

Everything is Worthy of His Praise

Day 25 Doxology: This is a "doxology" blog, and the word "doxology" is interpreted as Praise to God!  Also, we are told to praise God for the biggest of things and the smallest of things...everything is worthy of His Praise!  So if I praise God for something like a...chair, then I'm ok..right?

I have a chair in my office that is the absolute ugliest chair ever.  To begin with, the color is terrible!  It's dirty and faded.  The shape looks like something out of the Victorian Age, and there is writing on the armrest!  Pretty clear, I stole this chair from the youth room!

Regardless of its appearance, it might be in the top 5 of the most comfortable chairs that has ever hugged my bum!  When you sit down it kind of hugs you.  I can plop down with a book or my computer and really take care of business.

So here is the message, Don't judge a book by its cover! Although I might look bad, ugly, faded and worn-out, God can still see the worth in me, and I might just be the one thing that moves you to praise God!  Additionally, my chair may look bad, ugly, faded and worn-out, and out of a long day in my office...it might just be the one thing that moves me to praise God for that day! In short, everything is worthy of His praise!

Under Construction

Day 24 Doxology: I skipped a day...did you notice?  Let's start over, what has to happen for someone, or something, to experience growth?  You guessed it, maybe by looking at today's pictures, but you're right...construction!

If you travel Hwy 72 from Madison to Athens you have had the immense pleasure of progress / construction!

Construction has some known characteristics: it offers delays; it's messy; road construction means that what previously existed must be whittled away to make room for new progress. Construction is irritating and is an inconvenience for the very people that the new growth intends to serve.  In short, for something new to be birthed, construction is necessary!

What about our own life?  How many times do we avoid the re-construction of ourselves like avoiding the complications that exist on Hwy 72?  We don't have time to wait for the new intersection or the new lane so that life can be made easier.  We never like the mess of it all.  We get angry when someone nudges their way in the line because they raced down the other lane and moved over at the last minute.  We find ourselves looking for detours.  We avoid!

Here is what we know but never admit to ourselves during the construction phase...we are going to like it when it's done!  No one likes construction, but we all like the new that comes from it!   Before the internet, there were these book summaries called Cliff Notes, and the Cliff Notes to this doxology is this we are all under construction!

Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians, the old is gone, and the new is here.  So, if you find yourself going through something....something like construction.  Here me say this...it won't last.  I know it doesn't seem like it, but construction is never intended to be permeant...Construction is temporary!  And, so is what ever it is that makes you feel like you're stuck in traffic, and aggravated!  By the way, look around...you're not in traffic by yourself, we are all under construction!

A Place of Real Miracles

Day 22 Doxology: Welcome to today's doxology. After such great response from so many about yesterday's post, I feel pressured to represent more than ever.  However, in the true Lenten form...it was hard to feel today's collusion of God and Earth...until I sat in silence going through a series of images from this afternoon -a wedding celebration at our church.

Today was a full day of celebration for one of our own, her new husband, and her family.  It started with unlocking the church at 8 a.m. for the cupcakes and cake to be delivered.  A decorator and a cook was there with coffee in hand.  Then more tables were to be picked up, put together, and decorated.  All of this and the wedding wasn't until 2 p.m.  The church was alive, and so many were buzzing around with their job to do.

The wedding was beautiful!  Something about a bride and groom professing their love joined with God -before God- that seems to be a doxology all its own, but still...that wasn't it!

After the wedding, the celebration was on.  I stood near the wall and watched.  I watched the kids waiting for the moment they could be turned loose on the cupcakes, I watch the older woman with shoulder-less dresses cringe when the A/C cycled on.  I watch so many worker bees from our church fill and refill the food and drinks used up by the guest.  It was so noticeable and worthy of praise that the mother of the bride praised God for the "Body of Christ" that has helped so much.

It was about that time that I went upstairs and from the balcony took this picture, and it was this picture that made me pause and thank God for his grace!

Many of you remember that it was at a wedding that Jesus began his ministry.  His mom said, do it. He said, it's not time, and Jesus then went on to turn water into wine.  What is it about a wedding celebration that would make Jesus reconsider the launch of His ministry?  Could it be the people?

This post wedding celebration happened to take place in our church gym.  The family and friends spent hours turning this sweaty place of play into a celebratory launch for a couple into the world as one.  The moment didn't speak to my heart like the picture did hours later...it's not the space that is holy, but the people.  It's not the marriage that is instantaneously holy but what they do with vows they pledge.  And, just like that imperfect gym floor that was transformed into a beautiful space for celebration and miracles, our bodies are also imperfect waiting to be that beautiful space for Christ to dwell...it's a place of real miracles!  Praise God, because you are today's doxology!

Train Up A Child

Day 21 Doxology:  For those that might not know...I am the father of three daughters and each has a name that starts with the letter J.  So, instead of playing the name game I call them J-1, J-2, or J-3.  So, with that being said, today's doxology came from out of state!  I travel north to J-2's new home in Tennessee for a wonderful surprise!

J-2 and her husband bought their home last summer and have been taking the necessary time to knock off project after project which is the newlywed way! I'm extremely proud of the work they've done.

When I drove up I immediately saw the fruits of their labor.  From the curb you could see that someone cared about their home's appearance.  There were new shrubs, bark, and ivy thoughtfully planted.  J-2 had spent hours building shrub bed outlined with white stones.  They had pressured washed the soffits, fascia boards, gutters, and side walk.  Inside she had replanted plants for decoration and purpose.  It was a great sense of pride for a father to see her so intentional about making her house a home!  It is a powerful doxology to share with you!

The Bible shares in Proverbs 22, "Train up a child the way you would have them to go and they will  not depart from it..."  I believe that!  I used to believe that only applied to discipline.  However, today the source of my expanded deddy-chest was the thought that all those years of replanting monkey grass, tilling and planting our garden, watering our pool-side hibiscus and hanging porch ferns was not wasted.  She didn't resent those things, but choose to incorporate them in her own home for her and her family.

They still have projects on the list, but they've checked several off already.  She and her sisters lived in the sawdust of every new project their entire childhood, and today I was convinced it wasn't for them the burden that I thought, but a blessing!  Maybe mom and I didn't mess things up...Train up a child the way you would have them to go...and one day they will make you the proudest dad in the world!  I love you baby!

Onions, Bell Peppers, and Celery

Day 20 Doxology:  Today's image does the best it can to meet all our senses...senses that are usually confined geographically.  That's right...The Big Easy!

After several appointments for my Thursday, I wanted to surprise my Tahiti-sweetie (Shannon) with one of her favorite meals -Gumbo! It takes a while to prepare and even longer to simmer for full flavor.  

An intricate part of anything Cajun is what we call the "Holy Trinity!"  For person's of faith, the Holy Trinity is mentioned in scripture, and referenced as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!  If you visit the "Big Easy," it doesn't take very long before you realize that religion is a strong staple of the New Orleans's culture, and the "Holy Trinity" applies to more than religion!

Emeril Lagasse, was the first to coin the phrase...Bamm!  And, in doing so, he was the first that I heard use the term "Holy Trinity" to describe Onions, Bell Peppers, and Celery -a base for most anything Cajun!   Now that you understand my favorite food group is a bit spicy, today's doxology take's a back seat.

If I had to specify a doxology out of all that I've previously mentioned, it would be the thought and attitude that God is always among us.  It doesn't matter if it is in the understanding as God "The Father"...maybe as a saving "Jesus the Son"... or the motivative power of God as the "Holy Spirit!"

Regardless, how you feel God and God's expressions through this life...you cannot deny that it is full of flavor -like Onions, Bell Peppers, and Celery.

Clear and Simple

Day 19 Doxology: Holy Used Cow!

Today's doxology is a picture from a Tennessee farm that makes me smile inside and out.  Sales agencies are a multi-billion dollar industry.  The corporate world of sales is so competitive that each firm is looking for the next Steve Jobs to guide them to be the next Fortune 500 company exhibiting skills that are greater than anyone else...who knew such an entrepreneur could be found in Tennessee.

Never underestimate the power of clear and simple language.  Just Do It! Eat Mor Chikn!  Simple messages that are meaningful and effective.  Then there are others that communicate, not quite as concise or clear.  Such as this sign I found in Cleveland, TN.  I'm pretty sure that means Pay Before You Pump, but is that what it says?

But...back to the Used Cow Sale, what does that mean?  How used are the cows?  Is the price prorated based on depreciation?  So many questions...

As for the two images: Image 1 - a message is communicated, but there is more to the message; Image 2 - a lot is said, but the real meaning gets lost!

What do you gather from both images? Steve Jobs lives in Tennessee!  And, can anyone remember how does this relate to today's doxology?  When the rich young ruler asked Jesus what was the greatest commandment, Jesus used clear and simple language -Love God and Love Others!

When I get lost, when I look for used cows to buy, when I want buy gas and wonder if I need to pay first...I don't look to Steve Jobs from Tennessee, I look to Jesus!

Bookends of Jesus

Day 18 Doxology:  What a doxology day mainly because it was bookend with Emmaus!

The Walk to Emmaus is a 3-day spiritual journey where people from all over come together to serve and be served.  A person can only go on their Emmaus Walk one time which makes it all that more special.  It is the intent of Emmaus to strengthen the local church by making stronger, more spiritual disciples for Jesus Christ!  So once your weekend is over, you head back to your church and find a way you can serve.  Which means you get to pay forward God's love for the next pilgrim on their Emmaus Walk.

Since you can only go on your Emmaus Walk one time, one of the ways to stay connect to your Emmaus experience is to join a Reunion Group.  A Reunion Group is a group that meets weekly and holds one another accountable by asking/ answering two simple questions -What is my closest to Christ moment in the past week, and When have I failed to be Christ to my neighbor?  Answering these two questions has a special way of centering a person.

Another way to stay connected to your Emmaus Experience and keep the Emmaus community vital and strong for others to experience their own "Walk" is to attend "Cluster Meetings" once a month.  It's a time of welcoming new members to the community, worship, Holy Communion, and fellowship.

Whew!  That's enough back ground info I think?

Today was a doxology day because my morning started with my new Reunion Group and concluded with our "Cluster Meeting" which just happened to be on the same day.  This cluster is one of the healthiest cluster in the Alabama Emmaus Community...so you can imagine our worship experience and fellowship while including maybe 10 new additions to the Emmaus community!  And, the icing on the cake was serving Holy Communion alongside my wife!  God is Good, for sure!


I guess at the heart of my rambling is the reminder that if your day begins with Jesus, and ends with Jesus...now, that is something to celebrate!  Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

The Rings

Day 17 Doxology: Recently a friend had commented that her relationship with the closing of her rings was a love-hate relationship! I agree!  I agree more today than the day she planted the idea.

Today, I had come home and cooked for my sweet bride.  Before you take my man-card, I cooked taco salad; taco salad would not be Jones' first choice!  And, I was feeling Mexi-Americo Jones' style!

In short, I spent the afternoon working through buying groceries, putting up groceries, cooking groceries according to the goal with little attention to "The Rings!"

Closing 'The Rings" have become a love-hate relationship just like my friend suggests.   In explanation, our apple watch provides a guardian for a person to burn a set number of calories.  Color rings are a visual aids that gives one an indication of the progress for that day.

I have completed over 13 weeks of rings.  It becomes an obsessions of Move, Exercise, and Stand to close out the designated goals for each ring.

The evening is spent standing to close out the day, or jogging to burn the remaining calories for exercise.  In short, the rings become a greater focus than it's intended goal -fitness and health!

Today's doxology is the reminder that we get side-tracked while doing good!  What is our focus!  And, can we rebound to continue what God has designed us to be?

I'm certain we can!

Super Hero

Day 15 Doxology: Have you ever participated in a discussion that started with the question, "If you were a super hero what would your super power be?"  Over the years, I've heard answers that created great discussions like flying, invisibility, unlimited strength...you get the idea!

The 2nd part of the discussion that involved having a super power meant determining what would be your weakness.  For instance, Kryptonite is Superman's weakness.

Today while walking in front of family after family putting their mark on the beautiful Gulf beach, I ran across this fortress.  The really cool thing about this fortress was that it was being held and protected by Ironman and two other super heroes.  Outside the fortress walls, and on the other side of a mote, was what was obviously a super villain.

No children were nearby, no one was acting out an assault on the castle, or offering defense orders to hold the wall!  It's almost like this scene was simply beach accessories...what if when no one was watching the super heroes came alive like in Toy Story I, II, and XV?  It just made me pause and snap a picture as today's doxology!  Why, you may ask?

I praised God, because all that I've just shared with you went through my very empty mind in a split second. I immediately thought well Praise God...I'm a Super Hero!  I have as my "phone a friend" life-line the creator of everything we know and don't know...every molecule seen and unseen...every emotion felt and yet to be felt!  And all I have to do is call on His name!  I am in awe at His power and the power that He has promised me!

So yes!  I am a super hero and the only weakness to my super power is...me!

Two-faced!

Day 13 Doxology: What a huge undertaken today's doxology is for me...not really!

My desire to be clean shaven has given me an opportunity to present today's doxology!

Over the years, all we've heard is the church is two-face/ hipocrites!  Is that true?  After great intellectual inspiration, I decided to look it up, and what I discovered is hypocrites is defined as two-faced, insincere or deceitful.

Is there something in your life that can be defined as insincere or deceitful?    For centuries the church has been the recipient of: "they don't mean what they say" or, "they don't believe what they say!"  In truth, at the end of the day, it's all about who can come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ!

Back to the pic:  the world sees the church as two-faced -half bearded and half shaven and often partially gray!  They see a world of religion profiting very little against the world.  The churches that do this well are the churches that overcome the dead-fall that is built by the calamities of life.

Can we look through the dead-fall and convince our community that we are who we say we are?  Two-faced (Half-shaven) will do more harm than those near us that offer consistency in a darkness of distractions!

And, at the end of the day it might mean the world to someone else....if you realize that giving up a gray beard might mean an incredible supper with someone you love!

For Jesus Sake

Day 12 Doxology:  It's great to be back!   Since we last talked, my wife and I traveled south to San Destin for spring break and yes, it's been an amazing time off-stage and peaceful relaxation.  But in truth...are we ever "off stage?"

This morning Shannon and I walked the unsually quiet beach of San Destin.  It was quiet in every sense: not many people; not much warmth; hardly any waves.  It made me think...how many times have I seen the tumultuous waters crash wave after wave threatening the beach and my umbrella positioning?  Over the years, I've had difficulty even carrying on a conversation because of the crash of each wave against the pitch of the beach.  Today was different.

I wanted to pause and capture this moment of peace for us both.  I'm afraid it's a peace that wouldn't last.  

All day I leaned on the calm of this morning's waves to bring peace to our day.  And, as you would expect it didn't last.  Tonight, in my golf cart as I was traveling behind a car that was about to lose its car-tag I mentioned to the riders as they exited "Hey, you're about to lose your tag!"  They couldn't wait to use profanity and express how upset they were that I drew attention to their predictable upcoming situation.  I laughed and shrugged it off after a bit of self preservation!

The truth is...life in the valley is in your face and seldom as peaceful as a smooth and easy beach in the morning. The greater question is this...are you willing to expose yourself time and again to the tumultuous world for "Jesus sake!"

Jesus gives us the calm in order to deal with the valley!

Easier Than Cleaning Windows!

Day 10 Doxology:  Here we are...the 10th day of our heightened focus on ways to praise God!

Some entries have been more favorable than other, but all are likened to scripture and God's desire for our day.  Which leads me to today's doxology:

If you've followed me over the years, or if you know both Shannon and me, then you are pretty clear that I an OCD.  Cleanliness is next to holiness, right!   In short, there is a doxology today that must be from God!

I spent the day by cutting up a tree that had expired it's life expectancy.  After I had reached the point that I could call it quits, I moved to today's supper plans - Potato Soup!

Once I started the prep for supper, I noticed that the evening was moving through the house at an unexpected rate...it was then I saw today's doxology!

When the sun was low in the sky, I had noticed the window was in much need of cleaning...but wait, I had just cleaned it roughly a week and a half ago!  Also, I had just looked through this window approximately 5 mins ago, and it looked clean as a whistle!  Nonetheless, it is now clear (Not clear)...the window needed cleaning!

Funny thing...it wasn't clear that the window needed the much posterior cleaning until the Sun had reached a certain elevation in the evening sky.  Which offered today's doxology....We aren't sure of the need of purification, or cleansing, until the Father shines light on our life!

Many that are outside the church will read this and say, "Great, you've got to be a member of the church!" However, if you've been a member of the church for years, then you know once we walk into the light, our life is exposed for who we are!

Yes, it's a dirty window, but that is better than a dirty life that prevents you from an eternity in heaven!  And, if the truth be know, it takes more physical effort to clean the window than it takes to cleanse your life!  "We are saved by Grace though Faith!"  It seems difficult but it's that simple and that true!  Thank the Lord, because I could never cleaned enough windows to secure my place in heaven...!  Today's doxology is a hearty....Praise God!

What Are You Anchored To?

Day 9 Doxology:  Today's doxology is going to take a "Where's Waldo" champion!

Can you see what is the difference between this before and after image?

You're right, Shannon!  Sorry, you're wrong!

The difference is the 1x 4 board that was installed to secure the handrail.  Over the years the handrail has been used and, because the backing for the handrail was sheetrock, the "snug-ness" has become compromised!  So, we needed to allow the handrail to be anchored  "on solid ground." For your records, that was the original intent!

There is an old hymn:
                             My hope is built on nothing less,
                                Than Jesus' blood and righteousness;
                             I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
                                But wholly lean on Jesus name.
                             On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand:
                                All other ground is sinking sand.

For our young families; for our older families... to what are you anchored?  What is the foundation to that which you believe?  Is it Christ, or is it the world?

This simple doxology could be life-changing, or it could be easily deleted and forgotten.  If you are not anchored into something solid how can you expect to endure the test of time?  Build your faith on solid ground, strengthen that which you believe by completing your daily healthy essential habits.  Grow in your discipleship!

Someday someone will need to lean on you for stability, what you are anchored to will make all the difference in the world...and beyond!

Grace is Grace Regardless!

Day 8 Doxology: Please allow me a disclaimer from the very start of this doxology...I am an alumni of the University of Alabama, and I bleed crimson!  Really, I am partial and unapologetic during football season, and I am working through basketball, track, crew, volleyball, and baseball.  In short, I'm a fan which is short for fanatic!  However, I'm humbled and love my brothers and sisters from the other college in the state!  If that is all you hang your hat on, then you are missing the point if this doxology!

Tonight, I received a message / billboard from God...I call it conviction!  A feeling of remorse for an action for or against.  In short, I felt guilty!

Our church host an incredible Upward Basketball Ministry.  I can't tell you how proud I am of all that is accomplished throughout this Upward program.  Additionally, we are the last of the few churches in our area that host Upward for the high-school age group.  The reason we continue this ministry is because there is a need!

To be clear ..."Upward Basketball is an evangelist sports ministry designed to promote community outreach, develop volunteer leadership, and share the love of Christ with children and their families, using something as simply as basketball."

So today's doxology...I'm watching Alabama play basketball in the SEC tournament, and I can't help but to question their aggressiveness (Remember, I wrestled in high school)!  While I watch them as a fan (fanatic), I felt the urge to jump and scream then in a split second... I thought well it's not like this is Upward Basketball!  Bamm!  Shouldn't it all be a ministry?

During the season, I asked that we reevaluate the vision of Upward.  Were we sticking to the strict conviction upon which Upward was established?  In short, Upward, had become like the world that we saw on T.V. -aggressive, argumentative, and fanatical

Tonight, during an altercation of an Ole Miss Rebel and an Alabama Crimson Tide player, I had a separation of ministry from the world.  In that moment, I felt that God intended that the things He taught us were: be in the world and not of the world.  I taught our team and even led devotions that as much as we would like to confine them to Sunday, we can't.   This evening, I had become as guilty as those that I had brought attention too... simply because I was in the safe and security of my home!

Here is the deal...Grace is grace, and it doesn't matter where it is, or if it is for your team...I apologize to the coaches, parents, and athletes for ever acting otherwise!  Humbly...I share, a hardy Roll Tide!

The Heart Whisperer

Day 7 Doxology: If yesterday's doxology was about recovering from, or dealing with, the difficult times in our life, then today's "praise to God" moment is about one of the greatest joys we experience in our life...people that lift you up and bring you joy like the Heart Whisperer!

Do you know of that special someone that has a gift to warm your heart?  Whenever they are around you just feel better?  I have a little buddy at church that I call the Heart Whisperer.  He is so considerate, polite, and thoughtful.  During our fellowship time on Sundays he is so quick to visit some of the older ladies in our church and offer them a hug for their day...he is never refused because he is the Heart Whisperer!

For Valentine's Day he hand-made me a card and put some of his own money in it for a gift.  His thoughtfulness was whispering to my heart!

Every Family Fun Night (like tonight) he stands in a chair and helps me ask God to bless our food and fellowship, and our duet of a prayer is offered to the real Heart Whisperer.

Isn't that what we are called to do...share God's love?  A love that is without strings!  Be representatives of God's unconditional love?  Having the same mind as Christ by taming the heart?  I pray that people see in me such a pure child-like love for everyone I meet.  I pray that when I walk in a room full of people they immediately feel better.  When I talk to someone I want to make them believe they are the most important thing on earth at that moment.  I want to become a Heart Whisperer!

Tonight's doxology may not seem like a big deal...maybe I'm just trying to get you to think about how you treat people.  Do they consider you to be examples of God's generous love?  For those that think this young man is not an incredible conduit of God's warming love...then you haven't met him...he is the Heart Whisperer!

Keep Singing

Day 6 Doxology:  Ok...from the start, this is going to be a doxology you are going to have to feel rather than simply read through if you're expecting some quick and easy inspiration!

Several years ago, I preached a message to some very loving peeps where I talked about...in the midst of our grief (whether big or small) our hope is in the Lord.  To illustrate my point I sang a song that I've sung alone in my truck a thousand times.  With nervous hands and a quivering voice I sung and played on my guitar a song that I lean on when times were harder than they should be.  Let me be clear, I haven't experienced pain like so many, but hurt is still is real and this song gives me peace.  So, for the almost 4 hour drive home from Atlanta, I sang this song -Keep Singing, by Mercy Me!

I feel almost silly for mentioning it, but I had such a hard time with today's doxology.  So much so that I noticed a really cool image of this morning's sunrise from Jennifer Gilliland immediately after I took one for myself.  And yes, it was beautiful, but since I was up and gone before 5am it seemed premature to label that as my day's doxology.  So I waited.  Still great job Jen!

The reason for my reluctance to mention, even write about it, is because my sharing almost has the potential to be misconstrued as idolatry, but my intent is to bring awareness to our dependance on God through whatever our circumstance (whether big or small)!  And that...is worthy of our praise!

I was in Atlanta, because that is where my tax person is, and this year's tax season (2018) is more difficult that last (2017)...after getting by, saving a tad, Shannon and I will have to pay a great deal of unexpected taxes (for us).  Listen, I have great friends that have way more tax burdens than we do, but it still stings!  So for the almost 4 hour drive home it was hard to see a doxology moment of any magnitude!  Until God reminded me that I've got to keep singing.  I pray that you look at the lyrics that I've posted and find the video of Mercy Me singing the song, Keep Singing, then maybe that soulful song can make you praise God through whatever situation in which you find yourself. Even if you have difficultly seeing God, I pray you Keep Singing!

Would You Rather?

Day 5 Doxology: Have you ever played the game "Would You Rather?"  It's an ice breaker game that I use to play at the beginning of a year-long confirmation class that I taught. It invokes asking difficult questions that would make people ponder what it is they didn't like or really didn't like.  For example: Would you rather eat a can of cat food or three whole rotten tomatoes?  Or, "Would you rather always smell rotten meat or always smell a skunk? Or, Would rather skip every where you went or run?  You get it, right?  Our class loved them!

Today I saw a picture that contradicted one asking Would you rather...?  Most everyday I see this man walking from of my office window.  It doesn't matter the condition...it could be raining (Like today), storming, freezing, snowing, or a 100 degrees with 100% humidity...this man is disciplined.

I watch him walk and he appears to struggle to keep up the pace that he maintains as he passes by...he may stumble, but he never falls!  It reminds me of Psalm 37:24 -though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord will uphold him with his hand.  What does this mean for the church and today's doxology?

This man encourages me.  Eyes from the Church...Mine...look at him and see a man with great discipline.  Someone that doesn't sit in his chair and play the Would I rather game -Would I rather walk to today or sit here because it is dry and comfortable?

Can eyes that gaze back at the Church say the same thing?  I am encourage yet again, because I've been serving my present appointment for almost two years and I can praise God that we have many that will choose to answer the Would I rather question buy saying I would rather follow God.  Are we where we need to be?  No!  Do we have a distance to walk still?  Yes!  Are we better today than we were yesterday?  Yes, praise God!  And there is my doxology!

Would you rather look ahead to the unknown or go back to what you know?  Praise be God for the man that keeps on moving, regardless!

Winning The Lottery

Day 3 Doxology: Francis Chan wrote a book in 2008 with co-author Danae Yankoski called "Crazy Love" -A New York Times Best Seller!  In it there is this  creative emphasis placed on the depth of God's Crazy love.  Heck, the book was so good it inspired artist Hawk Nelson to write the song Crazy Love.  It has long since inspired my life in a number of ways.

I can remember when my wife read Chan's book and set out to accomplish the challenge of doing something spectacular and amazing for 30 days to show her love for me, her spouse. Shannon, a gifted task person, accepted and completed the challenge with honors.  Waiting for her trophy, I hadn't yet read the book, and I was left in a state of awe not knowing what I had experienced nor what I had!

I feel it's that way with God.  We don't truly understand what we have.  Through the centuries, we men [unisex] have tried to define and understand God's love...I believe we never quite live up to God's original intent.  Yet, we try!

Maybe trying is our greatest accomplishment?  In our attempts, we come closer than ever to our desire, and maybe God's desire, for everyone to be happy.  Which brings me back to Chan's book?  When Shannon read Chan's book and set out to fulfill Chan's tasks, she was so deeply bought in to making our marriage whole -not that she isn't now!  For the record...I'm the luckiest man alive!  However, it's amazing what you can accomplish if you work at it!

Over the years, her simple little task have continued...even grown!  I have notes in my closet that remind me of the things that she likes about me -it makes me want to do them more.  She leaves notes in the drawer that holds my toothpaste that reminds me that we are one -it makes me want to be even closer!  And, this morning without my asking she brewed me coffee and left a note to remind me why -it makes me want to travel to the ends of the earth to win her love every day!  Shouldn't I want to do that for God as well?

It's God's crazy love shared between this man and that woman forever!  It's like...winning the lottery!

You Are Awesome Mrs. Awesome

Day 2 Doxology: I didn't have to look very long before my heart's desire was to praise God.  Today's doxology came at 9:31am.  Sure, other moments in my day stood out and begged me to offer praise, but few could compare to the way my heart was moved when a dear friend sent me a text and today's doxology.

Her words reminded me of some very important things about my life. I won't share them all, but I will speak to what it feels like when someone ministers to the depths of your soul...so deep that you know that it can only be Christ.  I had to read the text several times, each time my eyes would water more and more.  And, as with each reading, I felt genuine love.  This person was Christ to me.

Certain moments just minister to me deep in my soul.  There is not a sweeter time as a father than when I see and hear my daughters laugh uncontrollably...when their eyes are crying for joy because I've made them laugh.  There is not a greater moment as a husband than when I see in my wife's eyes that she is proud of me, and tells me she loves me.  I'm never more humbled than when someone reminds me that I was their pastor, and God used even me to further their discipleship.

I love being a minister and helping when and where I can, but sometimes you wonder if you are doing any good, if you are a conduit for lives to be touched and changed.  Then in God's appointed time someone takes just a moment to say You Are Awesome!

So, let my doxology be your doxology and possibly someone else's doxology...take just a moment and contact someone you haven't heard from in a while and tell them they're awesome!  Tell them they are loved by you and God and that they matter!  In the spirit of Philippians 2:5 -in your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus!

Be Christ to them like Mrs. Awesome is to me!

The Same Just Different

Day 1 Doxology:  I must say I have been anticipating this day for a while, it appears you have as well.  I have received text and calls asking if I would continue my blog-writing tradition for my Lenten doxology discipline.  Well, be careful what you ask for, here it is.

I usually start off slow, then I have sprouts of brilliance or cleverness (or I get lucky),  then they'll be a dry spell when the writing gets harder, and thankfully as Easter approaches the vigor returns.  So, for the next 40 days (not counting Sunday) we will go through our day and look for God together. Then we will share our praise God moment with the world (Yes, the world!).  Apparently, there are some in Russia that really enjoy when my day and God collide.

 Have you ever noticed that for something worth while to begin often something else must die; for growth to take place the struggle of the old ways must be corrected.  Today's image was taken when last year's Palm branches were being turned to ashes for tonight's Ash Wednesday Service.  Last year a week before Easter the children in our church were waving them and singing "Hosanna" and tonight mixed with oil the ashes of those year-old Palm branches were used to draw a cross on the foreheads of believers.  Still functioning but in different ways.

In my own life, I am just a shell of the person I once was.  I am still functioning, just differently.  Lately, I am in awe of a God that flung the stars in the heavens but cared enough to number the hairs on my head.  I am in awe of the complexity of the human body; the life of a Palm branch, and the regeneration of cells.  I guess at the height of my awe-struck wonder is why God took the time to put that much hair on my back with all he has going on in the world.  The older I get the more I understand some things can be the same just different!

Welcome to Lent!