Fishing with Charlie

Still out and around

2009-03-05T22:33:00.003-05:00

I wanted to let all my Blog readers, those who really care, know that I'm still here and around.

In the recent past, I was going to come on here and post a story about some friends and the relationship they had with a person not being nice to them yet again. However, a couple of things happened. First, I wanted to read what the clowns who were being improper with their so called Christ-Like wisdom and deconstructive criticism were saying about my friends, but that would have required me reading their vile words, therefore, crushing my spirit, and allowing unChrist-like thoughts to pop in my head. Just what Satan loves. Second, I would have attacked those saying the vile words, therefore, killing a great opportunity to just forgive. I think the latter, when we forgive, just kills Satan.

For some time, I have stayed off the blogs of Narcissistic blowhards, and found myself growing closer to Jesus through prayer and study, rather than further from him in irritation and rage. I've found that the wisdom of the Bible sure beats the "wisdom" of some blogs. Quite frankly, I struggled with forgiveness, including future forgiveness to those who say and espouse their discipleship, yet make backhanded smart remarks like the Sanhedrin or religious elite of Christ's time in an effort to make someone else look bad. We'd answer back in a manner discrediting Christ's teaching to be reserved, so we (I) would look just as silly as the clowns with so much "wisdom." Where'd that get me, quite honestly, farther away from Christ. So, I stayed off the blogs, including mine in an effort to grow up, especially spiritually.

Today, I just felt like saying hello to all those who've been asking where I was and what I've been doing. Of late, I've been very deliberate with my time, focusing on building and making new relationships. I am trying to better myself by surrounding myself with positive thinkers. Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoy good debate, in fact, you'd see that in me if you're a friend of mine on Facebook. However, I only enjoy the debate with those who know when we've stepped over line, assist each other back on the right side of the line, and can still be friends. I love those debates.

Some of the debates I've had on blogs or with bloggers, I can't say I've enjoyed them all, and many times, me and those I would quip with, never really should have started because we lacked the friendly style it should have taken place with. For those I've quipped with and especially those that watched on the sidelines I am sorry. Looking back, we looked like dang fools. There's one thing I will say, likening to one of my favorite posts on a blog related to donkeys, I still have no problem being a loser. Jesus is for losers...and thank God for that!

See you aroung blog land (and on Facebook), but hopefully, most of all, See you in Church this Sunday!

Alan Jackson...THANKS!!

2009-01-25T19:51:00.001-05:00

Alan Jackson, a country singer and one of M Barton's favorites, was in concert at UCF this past weekend.

I didn't go, and wasn't a fan untillllllllllll, he played a song and had video behind him of spots in Orlando. Part of the song says something about "Chicken" and he flashed a picture of my Chick-fil-A restaurant on the screen (people went crazy) and then busted the doors down for some real good Chicken later that night after the concert.

Alan Jackson...I love you!

I'm just saying....

2009-01-22T19:55:00.002-05:00

I mean, come on.

Well, we have a new president and things will be different. I'm unsettled about the direction he's gonna take us in, but that doesn't mean I won't be praying for him. I truly believe, GWB put us on a track towards socailism, and Obama is content with driving the bus there as fast as he can. That disappoints someone like me, one who never had things handed to him and always had to work extra hard to get where I wanted to be. That to me is the American Dream. Now, it seems, America is content with it's dream being whatever your neighbor, they want it, and if you can't have it, then your neighbor shouldn't have it, either. That stinks.

OK, on a lighter note, I have been enjoying my friends of late, especially reconnecting with many on Facebook. If you haven't tried Facebook, I'd encourage you to reconnect with your past and current friends. "I'm Living in the past, Man!" And it's been a ton of fun.

Economy got you down? Let me encourage you. Jesus has you right where He wants you. There's nothing better than being right where He wants you. The only caveat to being where He wants you, is that you need to want to be there, too. Let me encourage anyone who's struggling to consider giving a tithe at church. Tithe means tenth and a tenth of your first fruits. Malachi 3:10 says, "Test me (the Lord), and see if I won't pour out a blessing from heaven, so much so that you will not have room enough for it." Figure out how much 10% of your GROSS is (that's before taxes), and give it to the Lord. Blow the doors off life, and give. It will make you a better manager of your money (which is actually His), and you'll be better off for it. I'm living proof.

Let Jesus reign in your heart, and enjoy everlasting freedom.

Here's hoping I see you in Church this Sunday.

Thankful

2008-11-24T10:45:00.003-05:00

I apologize for being so long between posts. The majority of my energy and passion was spent trying to elect a socialist to the Presidency over a Communist, and most of that happened in a cyberspace called Facebook. Either way, it was going to be a tough 4 years for me, regardless of which senator was elected President. In that, be Sure to pray for our new president, President -Elect Obama. Pray that the Lord would fill him with wisdom and protect him from the evil one. Pray that he is guided by the will of of the people and God's will for our country. Pray for his protection and for his family in the next four years. Just pray.

Today is the start of Thanksgiving Week. Amazingly, our government hasn't eliminated the religious aspects of the holiday like Christmas. Most schools have Winter Holidays now, rather than the Christmas Holidays when I was in school, and Spring Break is in place for Easter Holidays. Thankfully, Thanksgiving has survived!

Thanksgiving is just as it sounds, a time to give THANKS to God for the blessings He has bestowed upon us. So many of our prayers to the Lord are filled with, Lord give me this, and Lord give me that, or Please help me Lord, etc. Many times we forget to thank Him for the blessings AND trails He has sent our way to develop us, nurture us, and grow us.

This week, be sure to say thanks, Lord. Thanks for our country, our families, our work, our love, our life, our place in the world, and our salvation. Don't forget to thank Him for our suffering, our hurt, and our struggles. The Bible says, "In EVERYTHING, give thanks!"

So whatever place the Lord has you in life, be sure to give THANKS!

I'll be looking for you in Church this Thanksgiving weekend!

American Economics

2008-10-06T10:51:00.004-05:00

I'm inside due to the rain, as I usually mow the yard on Mondays, my regular day off during the week.

I was reading a college student's post about political economics, and then reading the comments she was being bombarded with in regards to their understanding of economics. First, I was really impressed that this young lady would put this out there, only to be ripped a part by those "in the know."

I'm copying her post followed by my personal response to help prop up her argument. I realize folks are hurting. My prayer is that this mess is straightened out, people who want to work are back at work, and people buy lots of chicken (that's for me). Laura's post is as follows:

"TO ALL MY FRIENDS....LIBERAL OR CONSERVATIVE...FYI only.George Bush has been in office for 7 1/2 years. The first six the economy was fine especially after the Bush tax cuts rejuvenated the economy after 9-11. A little over one year ago:1) Consumer confidence stood at a 2 1/2 year high;2) Regular gasoline sold for $2.19 a gallon;3) the unemployment rate was 4.5%. 4) the DOW JONES hit a record high--14,000 + 5) American's were buying new cars,taking cruises, vacations overseas, living large!... *BUT American's wanted 'CHANGE'! So, in 2006, they voted in a Democratic Congress and yes-- we got 'CHANGE' all right. In the PAST YEAR: 1) Consumer confidence has plummeted ;2) Gasoline is now over $4 a gallon & climbing!;3) Unemployment is up to 5.5% (a 10% increase); 4) Americans have seen their home equity drop by $12 TRILLION DOLLARS and prices still dropping; 5) 1% of American homes are in foreclosure.6) as I write, THE DOW is probing another low~~$2.5 TRILLION DOLLARS HAS EVAPORATED FROM THEIR STOCKS, BONDS & MUTUAL FUNDS INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS! YES, IN 2006 AMERICA VOTED FOR CHANGE...AND WE SURE GOT IT! ....REMEMBER THE PRESIDENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER ANY OF THESE ISSUES, ONLY CONGRESS.AND WHAT HAS CONGRESS DONE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.NOW THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT CLAIMS HE IS GOING TO REALLY GIVE US CHANGE ALONG WITH A DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS!!!!JUST HOW MUCH MORE 'CHANGE' DO YOU THINK YOU CAN STAND?"

My response to help keep her standing:

"Here's my 2 cents, after all, the American Dollar is so devalued within the world, it's all I have left.As I sat here pondering the wisdom of others, I had to wrap duct tape around my head, so it wouldn't explode. It's amazing how well we have taught our children and adults the basics of economics. Our government schools have sold us out to teachers' unions bent on doing the minimum necessary to keep budgets inflated and students lagging in the world. Thus, mismanaged education leads to ignorance in daily life management, and HERE WE ARE TODAY. Politicains only pander to people's wallets. Really that's it. It's always about money for politicians, and when it's not, its still about MONEY. Politicians have scampered for money so much that it has left the country trillions in debt, and use donating greenbacks to companies building wooden arrows. Perhaps, the politicians believe the wooded toy arrows are the best way to get Osama in his Pakistani cave, who really knows. Yet, our government education system has put us here by educating today's and tomorrow's politicians. They've done such a good job of it, we sit $6,000+ per American in debt as citizens and taxpayers, not counting our own personal domestic spending debts.Now that we have the real root of the problem out there, we need a plan on developing young minds into ones that will produce rather than be a slave to their debt and others. Sound economic teaching, that is exciting and fun, is the only to stave off future calamity.Let me give you some ideas, and hopefully, you're still reading, cause economics generally reads like a Ben Stein commercial. I qualify all this by being a business professional with NO business debt, no real personal debt other than my house and a car, and that includes a $0 balance on student loans.

"Let's start with the oil debate. Granted the Republicans say drill now and Dems say it would be 10 years before anything hit the market. OK, this is a good start to economic teaching being lacking in the U.S. When a push for drilling here (Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay less) started in July, markets saw oil futures, just at the thought the U.S. would even consider tapping into it's own resources, drop. Since July, because of a hypothetical, Oil has dropped from a high of $147 per barrel to $90 today. It will continue to fall just based on that hypothetical. Should POLITICIANS decide to stop discussing it, oil will rise. WHY? It's all supply and demand. If supply goes up it will keep demand regulated and prices will fall. This is the main argument in adding refineries in the U.S. Our old refineries produce at a reduced rate (unproductive to toady's standards for employee and product productivity) and if we could build new, streamlined refineries, then gas prices would plummet due to the ability to flood the market with more product, thus driving the price down. Another way to understand price increases in oil could be gained by looking at storm effects on production. When a storm such as a hurricane (Katrina, Francis, and Ike are good examples) threaten oil producing regions, what happens? You see your gas cost go up. Why? No supply. No supply or less supply equals higher cost.

"I like educating my employees on Minimum wage. For those making minimum wage (which I have few if any), they get all excited cause we businesses HAVE to , by law, give them more per hour. For those who have worked hard for the increases they've earned (not given by government stipulation), I always feel bad, and so do they, especially, if they've been through my economics class. Now if the cost of doing business goes up, what do you think happens? If you said consumer prices go up, then you're getting an "A" in economics right now. Let me explain how minimum wage really hurts the worker. Considering that when wages go up, prices follow, and deducting that it's a net gain of zero due to price inflation, what happens to employees making more than minimum wage? Most often, their wages remain the same and consequently, due to price increases reflective of minimum wage increase, they, ironically, end up paying more for products, thus, it could be said, they are making less. Because some slacker making minimum wage got a government subsidy in a simulated wage increase, those who worked hard, attained new levels of hierarchy within their jobs, end up losing, and at what cost? Being Fair. that's really what Fairness doctrine is all about. It is a cornerstone to Marxist thinking. Considering that it doesn't matter how hard you work, because some slacker will have an opportunity to make more by closing the wage gaps in inflated minimum wages, then what incentive is there for those who work hard to make more. Conversely, what incentive is there for slackers to work any harder. The answer is NONE. This is one of the main reasons the Soviet empire crumbled. War didn't beat the Soviets, economics beat them.Don't get pulled into this bologna that it's everyone else's fault. I finally rejoiced when Governor Palin said in her debate with Senator Biden, that we as Americans need to take responsibility for ourselves. Finally, a politician, although, considering what I've seen of her lately, that might be insulting, has said the most important thing to our recovery, we have to do it ourselves.

"I'm not looking for any handouts on days my business is less than stellar, and you shouldn't either.The POLITICIANS who put us in this place, whether Dems or the GOP, should be in jail and not running the country, or ruining our future and those that follow.Let me also add this about personal responsibility, as a country, we will do ourselves some real good, if we stop looking over our neighbor's fences and craving what they have, especially when we can't pay cash for it. When we learn how to live off 80% of what we really earn, save 10% of it for our personal future, and give the other 10% to charity, then this country will once again rise into the prominence of yesterday.God Bless the U.S.A. the greatest country the world has ever known, and good luck to anyone willing to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps. You'll be better for it and make America better."

I hope you made it though one of the most bland topics to ever discuss. I also hope you follow, Malachi's challenge, to give that 10% going to charity to your local church. If you don't have a local church, find one and get involved for Jesus' sake. If you can't find one, then I'll see you a Eastpoint next week!!

Just A Little Something Special

2008-10-03T19:23:00.002-05:00

Today, I had the priveledge of teaching a Chapel service today to some very special people.

Oh, by the way (BTW for my texters), I'm sorry I've been gone from blogging for a while. Life in the Fall is so busy, plus the Lord has really been blessing my business.

So, anyway, I took the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus Wept," (John 11:35), to show my friends how, even though, Jesus was God in person, things such as death affected Him so much that Jesus Sobbed uncontrollably. I used it to illustrate how Jesus feels pain when we feel pain. He hurts when we hurt and He knows the pain the loss of a loved one can bring. The best part about this particular passage shows us Jesus' victory over death and pain. Just when you think and event is complete and total, Jesus can change it. You just have to give your life to Jesus.

So, how you feeling today? Has the economy hurt you? Has a friend hurt you? Perhaps, life is really painful right now. Jesus totally understands, and He wants you to give all that pain to Him.

If I missed you in church this Sunday, that really blows. If you didn't come, then you really missed out on an incredible blessing. Not to worry, Sunday is just a few days away. I'll See you in Church this Sunday!!

Never Forget?

2008-09-07T19:00:00.002-05:00

I think we have forgotten. The news networks refuse to run ANY scene of the planes hitting the World Trade Center because of the emotional distress they believe it will cause us, but I believe they refuse to run the images because they hated what we were becoming...UNITED. A United States is strong in the world, but a divided USA is vulnerable to radicalism and calls of "what about ME."

I hate it!

9/11 took away our freedoms, our innocence, and our friends (even I lost one). I have copied a story from my friend's wife and widow, to which she dives into this very topic and does so very eloquently. Check it out here http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080907/OPINION03/809070367/1008/OPINION01 .

By the way, church was awesome today. We had a few more decisions and did 4 more baptisms.

Have a wonderful day, and I hope to see YOU in church this coming Sunday.

Obama, The Merciful

2008-08-21T20:02:00.002-05:00

I know, I'm sick of it, too. However, I need to write, just in case it motivates one person to run away from their infatuation with Obama The Great, "The One We've All Been Waiting For."

I've already posted my concerns with regard to Obama's connection to and his lived out Communistic beliefs. If that didn't convince my fellow comrades to run away and vote for a different candidate, then perhaps his stand on the next subject will.

Most already know that Obama, is a Pro-Choice Candidate, a candy-coated way of saying "For Abortions." For some of my friends, they may have found this as a pill not easy to swallow, but one they would swallow if it meant great change.

Did you know that Obama doesn't just believe in abortion, but is O.K. with Infanticide? For those that don't know, infanticide is the process of giving birth and then leaving the baby alone to die. If this happens on the street, young mothers are arrested for it. TheseNo food, no medical help, nothing...it's not wanted, let it die. I know some of you may think I'm really over the top on this one, but I'm not kidding. This guy scares me. So where's the proof, Charlie?

Here's a passage from transcripts of the Illinois legislature. On pages 32-34 of the April 4, 2002 session, Obama debates an abortion bill on the floor of the state Senate.

Obama states, "The only plausible rationale, to my mind, for this legislation would be if you had a suspicion that a doctor, the attending physician, who has made the assessment that this is a nonviable fetus and that, let’s say for the purposes of the mother’s health, is being — that — that labor is being induced, that that physician (a) is going to make the wrong assessment and (b) if the physician discovered, after the labor had been induced, that, in fact, he made an error, and in fact this was not a nonviable fetus but, in fact, a live child, that the physician, of his own accord or her own accord, would not try to exercise the sort of medical procedures and practices that would be involved in saving that child.
"Now, if — if you think that there are possibilities that doctors would not do that, then maybe this bill makes sense, but I — I suspect and my impression is, is that the Medical Society suspects that doctors feel that they would already be under that obligation, that they would already be making these determinations, and that essentially adding a — an additional doctor who the has to be called in an emergency situation to come in and make these assessments is really designed simply to burden the original decision of the woman and the physician to induce labor and perform an abortion.
"Now, if that’s the case –and — and I know some of us feel very strongly one way or the other on that issue — that’s fine, but I think it’s important to understand that this issue ultimately is about abortion and not live births. Because if these children are being born alive, I, at least, have confidence that a doctor who is in that room is going to make sure they’re looked after."

This bill is being debated after doctors at a hospital in Illinois, Christ Hospital (of all places), were, in fact, leaving babies to die after live birth abortions with no oversight. He knows it, that's why the bill was proposed. He decides to debate it in a manner that looks the other way, and turns the decision to save the baby back over to the very physician attempting the abortion. That's like asking an executioner to give you CPR if you live after the hanging. That's not what they're there to do.

Let me put it this way, this politician is saying that it would be too much trouble to burden another doctor to give life saving care to a baby born alive during an abortion because it would conflict with the mother's decision to have the abortion in the first place, AND, if that doesn't rot the bottom of your boat, it might affect the health of the mother. WHAT? Saving a baby that's born and out of the womb, not connected in any manner to the mother, could kill the mom?! That spin is ridiculous.

I'm sick! Is this the guy we've all be waiting for? What do you think he'll do to senior citizens on Universal Health Care when they become a burden to the taxpayer for their care?

I'll blog something nicer next time. Be careful who you support.

See you in Church Sunday!

Ah dang.

2008-08-12T19:52:00.002-05:00

Ah dang, I really hate when you hear something from the pulpit that makes you adjust your position in the seat. That just means the Holy Spirit found an area of your life that He wanted to focus you on to, in fact, make you a better disciple of Jesus Christ.

Such an occurrence happened this past week. Such an occurrence was set up by circumstances surrounding a spiritual struggle I've had with some brothers. In fact, we haven't spoke in about 18 months. They haven't called me and I have called them. We've talked about each other, to others and on the blogs, but we haven't talked to each other. In fact, at times, we've been down right childish.

Recently, I was made aware of another rant on a blog about a minister I work with, and it was not entirely accurate. It came second hand, and rather than address it personally, it was blogged about. The blog was put out there to build one up, and tear the other down. I've been just as guilty in the past. Frankly, I was going to put in my 2 cents after I read it, but I really couldn't write and felt no desire to write. For sometime now, I have asked the Lord to fill me with the same Grace He showed me on the cross. Isaiah says He went to the cross like a lamb before her shears is QUIET. As quiet at Jesus was, His actions have spoken to me...VERY LOUD!

Granted, since the post and the incident inciting the post, I've really wanted to give that blogger a piece of my mind. Yet, nothing to write...nothing to say...quiet. Then a pastor at the church I attend, David Schorejs, shared some incredible verses this week. Romans 12:14, "Bless those that persecute you; bless and do not curse." SLAP! RIGHT IN THE FACE!! This is in a section of Romans where Paul is writing about love.

God -- "Hey Charlie!"

Me -- "Ya, Lord"

God -- "Chew on this one...BLESS THOSE THAT PERSECUTE YOU; BLESS AND DO NOT CURSE."

Me -- "Ah dang. Lord, Forgive me!!"

Right between the eyes. So, if you saw me moving, uncomfortable, squirming constantly, I didn't have a rash, I had the Holy Spirit. David nailed me with the following quote, "Build up the body of Christ," and sited Ephesians 4:11-13.

David's not perfect, and while some believe he's capable of walking on water, I've seen him sink in it. He's not even capable of changing water into wine, contrary to reports. Like me, full of faults but saved by grace.

Lord, Bless my brother's ministry, and help them to be lights to a dark world. Help us to work together for Your glory. Help us to stop being childish. The world deserves better of us.

If you didn't know it, this is Eastpoint Fellowship's 5 year anniversary celebration this Sunday. We'll have tons to do and some wonderful speaking this Sunday. I'm sure Brother Ken has another action packed worship service planned. I'll see you in church this Sunday!!

ObaMessiah

2008-08-06T20:44:00.002-05:00

I cannot fathom what happened to America, that she would be so desperate, so jealous of others, that she would elect a Communist as her president. I just can't believe it. While the other candidate isn't my favorite either, I can't fathom voting for Communism. It really frightens me.

Communism, in a nut shell, is the state deciding what is enough for anyone to have, and distributing the remainder of what is not "needed" by an individual to others. It's an effort by the state to keep everyone on an even playing field financially, mentally, and physically.

This crap of class envy will kill us all, rather we should, if we envy that which an upper financial class has, ask questions and learn from what they did to get there. Most will openly share their story and secrets. Yet, most in lower classes are lazy and rely on primarily three ways to collect what they believe is too much access for the upper classes. They vote for politicians who will TAX it out of them, or they Sue it out of the upper class. Some try to use government to get rich quick through , what I call, the poor man's tax, the state lottery. Then what happens? Because the winner had no training on economics or financials, and it didn't take any pain in training to attain this newfound wealth, those that were lazy and won the lottery, in an effort to get rich quick, end up bankrupt. Then bankruptcy is just another way to redistribute wealth in a backwards way. It just takes away from those who worked hard and now have to eat the bills for products you purchased and enjoyed. You had fun and we're left with the bill.

This is exactly what the Obama nation wants. If your successful, you should have to pay for the faults of everyone who is not successful. This is communism.

Let me leave you with something to think about. There's an old lady on the park bench who is cold and hungry. I have decided to pass her by (not the Christian thing to do, but I'll press that issue in a second, so hang with me). You decide to stop me, put a gun to my belly and demand that I hand over the money in my wallet, $200. I do. Then you proceed to take the old lady to eat and give her warm clothes and shelter with the money you took from me. Is what you did right? NO! You still stole and committed armed robbery with a firearm; this is a felony punishable by 10+ years in prison. So then what is the difference if I decide to pass this lady by and you decide the government, through it's taxes should take $200 out of my wallet to help this lady (welfare, etc) and if I don't, then they'll come with guns and threaten me with jail. It's still stealing. Now, as Christians, we should be tithing and presenting offerings to our churches and mission organizations, OR stopping, in person, to help. It should be of our own free will, just as when we accept Jesus as Savior. Just as coerced salvation will ever stand up when we get to heaven (we have to want Him in our lives), we have to want to help the needy. In fact, when we do stop and help, the blessings are so much more personal and bountiful then when we decide as a mob, to take from someone who really doesn't want to help.

The world will only become a better place when we stop forcing people to help, and start teaching them the benefits of helping of their on free will. Jesus would be so proud to see you step up and help the old lady without bullying another person that they should help too.

Be sure to inflate those tires and say no to the "O!"

I hope you find someone to help, and I'll see you in church this Sunday!!

Chaz Burton Crusade 2008

2008-07-24T19:02:00.004-05:00

"Chaz Burton, a young and dynamic preacher will bring his knack for speaking mixed with hillarious comedy to Eastpoint Fellowship Church on Sunday, July 27, 2008. He's speaking at 8AM, 9:30AM, and 11AM. You will not want to miss his relevant message.

Rolling Stones Magazine, if they ever got to see him, would call him a "chuckle of fresh air in the pulpit." US Weekly would call him, "Rivoting, not able to get enough of this pioneer for Jesus," and when asked about Chaz Burton and his preaching style, Jack Nicholson replied, "Who!?" Who, not many people can say Jack Nicholson called them "Who."

Join the growing Chaz Burton Crusade...it's not about Chaz Burton, it's about Jesus Christ!" From our Facebook add for "I'm going to the Chaz Burton Crusade"

Here's what today's message ENCOURAGES...
--Remember, it's not about Chaz Burton...It's about Jesus Christ! So here we are, it's Thursday. I started to hear some excuses from some good friends of mine. "I can't make that the first day I go" or "Who's this Chaz Burton Guy anyway" or "Did I eat that or rub it on my face; my back hurts...Hotttttt Pockets!"

Just so you know, I had a baseball coach in high school that said, only losers make excuses; winners celebrate!" I'm down with that philosophy today. For too long, even I have made excuses as to why I would not OUTWARDLY share and express my faith in Jesus Christ. I was such a loser! Here's this guy; He loved me so much (in fact, I can't even remember our first face to face meeting, but the Bible says it happened sometime in my mother's womb), that He became my sin, died on a cross for that sin so I could live forever...and I was worried about what people would think of me if I celebrated in front of them? That's not the nature of a winner. Winners woot and holla, toast champiagn, raise trophies, hug, and CELEBRATE. I made excuses. "They'll see the way I live and ask me about it" or "They're busy this week" or "I think they already go to church" or a good/bad one, "It'll ruin what we have now." PLAUH! I make myself gag. Grace sets in and.......I'm O.K!

Are you making excuses this week? I hope you're inviting the WORLD to come see Chaz speak this weekend. He has so many nitwitted stories to share about himself and others in the Bible, but most importantly, he just wants you or your friends to meet our Savior. He's speaking this Sunday, July 27, 2008, at Eastpoint Fellowship (a link to the church website is provided) at 8AM, 9:30AM, and 11AM. Who are you going to bring with you? Who are you going to bring that just might want to spend eternity partying with a bunch of winners?

So Who are you bringing? See you in church THIS Sunday! I CAN'T WAIT!!

Where You Shouldn't Be

2008-06-29T21:33:00.002-05:00

Earlier this year, in May, when I was busy getting contractors lined up for the rebuilding of my North Carolina home, I had to venture down to Atlanta for some training at Chick-fil-A's home office. I had my wife drive up and meet me after my training, and we stayed in Atlanta for one extra day. We had some comp tickets to go to Six Flags as a perk for selling Coca-Cola at Chick-fil-A. We really needed a day to get away from the insurance stuff and the rebuilding stuff, and Six Flags hit the spot. ALL of my kids had a great time. In fact, Candace got to ride a roller coaster for the first time. She went on the tallest one there...FIRST. I was so proud of her (Jordan, too...Brady will have to wait a few more years, but I'm sure he would have done it given the opportunity).

In Gotham City, they have a roller coaster adequately named "The Batman Roller Coaster." We all, minus Brady, went on it. I distinctly remember telling Candace while in line, "Nobody gets hurt on roller coasters." It's easy to remember because of the way we were making our way around the park, she chickened out of going on the next roller coaster cause it had two loops. She got in the seat and freaked out (Ever see Final Destination 3...just like that). So Jordan took her place and she watched. The next roller coaster was next door, and it was the Batman one. Liz and I calmed her down, let her get her bearings, and let her watch a few times as the Batman coaster completed its ride cycles. "See, no body's dying. No body's getting hurt." She kept watching the coaster as it completed its ride cycles as we moved through the line. She said, "Every body's fine daddy." I said, "Sure they are, they do everything they can to protect us so it's fun."

All that said, yesterday, a teenager dropped something while on the ride, jumped a fence to retrieve it, and lost his life as he was decapitated. What went wrong? Lawyers will jump in and probably say that the TWO 6 foot fences were not enough to keep people out of restricted areas, and collect money; all the while, we should look to the terrible mistake of a young man not obeying the rules and posted signs. As awful a tragedy as this is, and the tragic end to a life that could have showed so much promise for the world, fingers will be pointed and it won't solve anything.

When fault lies with you, accept it, learn from it and GROW. So many times in life, we end up in places we shouldn't be in, because we didn't obey life's warning signs. Speeding Tickets Piling up? WARNING SIGN...how about the sign posting the speed limit. In Debt? WARNING SIGN...credit card and its statement or how about gambling when you need the money for other things (it gets even worse when you gamble in an attempt to pay back debts, whew, what a nightmare situation). Marriage Falling Apart? WARNING SIGN...hanging out with other ladies or men. Addictions? WARNING SIGN...Can't get through one day without one fix. So many signs, yet we go right by them cause we believe WE know better when in fact we don't know better; That's the reason for life's signs.

Pray for this boy's family. Pray that through this awful tragedy, some will come to know the Lord.

Church was awesome this week as more and more people are visiting. Our new Worship pastor starts this week, and we will be building a new worship center soon. David Schorejs will be preaching this next week and he's always a wonderful teacher of life's lesson's and warning signs. Obey the signs of life this week and stay safe (especially when lighting those firecrackers this upcoming 4th of July). I'll be in North Carolina finishing up the repairs this weekend, so I'll miss you this Sunday, but there's a whole lot of other people would love to see you in church THIS Sunday.

I Want To Be A Clone?

2008-06-24T20:09:00.006-05:00

I remember when the ole iXo college group at my old church would do "Drive-by Preaching." You'd have someone driving, and some lunatic, leaning his entire torso and head out the window yelling at strangers on the sidewalk, "Jesus Loves You!" or "Jesus died for You!"

I'm not sure we got anyone saved this way, but it sure was fun.

So what are you doing in church life that's fun and not getting people saved? Are you in it for the fun, or the niche you're comfortable in? Are you a lunatic that strangers write off because you didn't take the time to get to know them? Just asking.

Just like drive-by shootings can leave a hail of bullets and someone dead, so can a method of drive-by preaching. Get to know 'em; their lost and want to be found. I'm just saying, do you want to be a clone?

See you in Church this Sunday!

Sold Out

2008-06-22T20:45:00.002-05:00

I really believe our politicians have sold us out, both sides of the aisle, especially in the area of fuel charges. We're all getting squeezed at the pump, unless you're lucky enough to drive a vehicle powered by compressed air (which is out there). So we keep importing oil from clown dictators in the Middle East and Venezuela (Citgo) and we pay higher prices at the pump.

Here's how we decided to become "energy dependent" in the past. It was discovered that corn was an energy source and could be turned into ethanol. The ethanol would be used as a substitute for gasoline or as an additive to assist gasoline in burning cleaner. As the world craved more energy, the United States included, more gasoline was needed, and thus, we needed more ethanol. More ethanol meant we needed more corn, far more than farmers could grow and grow fast enough. Economics starts to kick in here; where there's a large demand and short supply, prices tick upward, sometimes at inflation busting levels. Now with higher corn prices, the cost of food goes way up because we need corn to feed the cattle and chickens we eat, thus food goes up from higher feed and we get the DOUBLE WHAMMY of the cost of corn used in ethanol to transport the food to market. RESULT: Milk way up, meat way up, fast food way up, and GAS WAY UP (and cars are breaking down)!

It's insane! We have enough oil within the borders of the United States, let alone in ANAWR, to put Saudi Arabia and other Middle East countries out of business, yet our politicians sit around doing NOTHING. Their only solution to date has been a windfall profits tax, which, in case you don't know how companies and businesses work, would essentially get passed on to the consumer to pay (Corporations, contrary to what taxes you think they pay, really pay NO taxes...You do it for them when you purchase a product, they pass their "tax cost" along to you in the retail cost of the product). This happens when the government raises the minimum wage, too (just think about the last time a restaurant didn't raise it's prices when minimum wage went up...never happens). Why? The restaurant passes the cost along to the consumer through higher prices on the menu. This happens with fuel, too.

If you want lower prices at the pump, at the restaurant, at the grocery store, at your electronics store, where ever you shop, sign the petition through the web link I provided on the right side of my web page titled, "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less." Cuba and China our drilling off Florida's cost right now, yet Florida will not let the U.S. Companies drill...INSANE!!! One other fact, did you know, there's oil in the Rocky Mountains in the shale that could be turned into production oil for as little as $80 a barrel...we're paying over $130 a barrel for terrorist funding oil. Stop the insanity and sign the petition.

Thanks for listening to this rant and rave. Sign the petition.

I sure hope I catch you in church this Sunday!

Past and Present

2008-06-15T21:24:00.004-05:00

Today was an amazing day of being a DAD. It was a lot of fun, and I'm so grateful for my children and for my DAD.

Today, I watched my daughter, Candace, put on a gymnastics show for me. She has practiced and worked so hard. I was reminded, as she turned cartwheels, of a friend of mine while she did them. My friend, Matt Taylor, preached on occasion at an old church of mine. If you ever get to see him preach, he preaches with such passion and conviction that it easily convicts you. His sermons would leap off the stage and into your heart, as though, the Holy Spirit vaulted out of his mouth and into your heart. That's divine inspired preaching I love. He prepared well, and always sold out to his sermon.

I don't get to see him preach, as he was called to the pulpit in Missouri, but on occasion something reminds me of him. Whether it be an old Chris Farley skit doing his Matt Foleydeal, or my daughter doing cartwheels, I am reminded of the passion in which he preached and encouraged us to live for Jesus.

So, today, as my daughter turned perfect cartwheels, I saw Matt doing cartwheels and toe-touches on stage for Jesus to the music, "Eye of the Tiger." It was awesome to reminisce and to be reminded by a little girl to live my week for Jesus with the passion in which Matt preached.

Here's to hoping that this week you live for Jesus with passion and it's contagious.

I hope to see many more of you in church this next Sunday; it's going to be awesome!

Peace in the Storm

2008-06-10T18:50:00.011-05:00

I told you in the last post, and many that check me out on Facebook have seen this plus, if you're on a prayer e-mail chain I subscribe to, then you know where and what I've been up to over the last month.

Last month, Liz and I, as I blogged about, went to Hawaii for my wife's Birthday. It was my gift to her and our second time visiting those beautiful islands. We went to Oahu for 2 days and stayed on Waikiki Beach and then went over to the Big Island (Kona) for some Volcano exploration for 4 days. We spent a lot of time hiking and laying around the beaches. It was a very special getaway for Liz and I. In fact here are some pictures:

This is Honolulu and Waikiki Beach from atop Diamond Head Crater, an extinct volcano that is very prominent from the beach. We hiked to the top it....whhhhhhheeeeeeew, OXYGEN; I need oxygen!

Here, I stand in front of our favorite place to eat, not only in Hawaii, but in the world, Cheeseburger in Paradise. This is the best hamburger ever put together in a great atmosphere right on the beach. I would have eaten here for all meals had Liz let me. Plus, if you've eaten at any Cheeseburger in Paradise within the states, it doesn't come close to the ones in Hawaii, particularly the one in Maui. However, since we weren't in Maui this time, the one on Waikiki Beach did nicely.
Here we are on Waikiki Beach at sunset following a Luau.

Here we are flying in a helicopter over an active volcano.

Here, Liz stands in the middle of a major hwy, yet she doesn't have to watch out for any cars. It was overrun by a lava flow 4 years ago. Pretty neat!

We're standing at an observation post about 2 miles from the volcano, and it is cold. The Big Island of Hawaii has like 8 of the world's 10 temperate zones. In fact, you could go from a deluge of rain to the dessert in 2 minutes to the top of Mono Lea in an hour covered in snow. Plus, there's no trees around this active volcano so the wind whips in for miles off the ocean, thus it's windy and cold, but awesome!

Then with a day left, we got a phone call at 1AM Hawaii time which equates to 7AM on the east coast. Needless to say it was some terrible news. 3 trees had fallen on our home in Black Mountain, North Carolina doing significant damage. Its over $52,000 in repairs, and the insurance company has drug its feet all along. So pray for us as we still are negotiating with the insurance company to live by their slogan and Be a Good Neighbor.

Here's what the damage looks like:

The trees hit with so much force that the siding on the opposite side of the home exploded right off. We have 8 holes in our roof, and 6 trusses and the gable are completely totaled. The master bedroom was a complete loss. So pray for us as we work through this storm. We travel back up to meet with contractors tomorrow and will be back home on Saturday. Just the travel back and forth has put a serious dent in our fuel budget. It was cheaper getting to Hawaii than it has been in going back and forth.

Thanks for the prayers and support. So many have called and asked to help which has been awesome. You have been the peace within the storm.

If you missed Eastpoint Fellowship this past Sunday, you missed a lot and I'm sad for you, but you can make it up...See you in Church this Sunday (cause we'll be back)!

Where have I been?

2008-06-08T07:54:00.002-05:00

I'm so sorry for my absence on my personal blog. I've been posting on some other blogs thoughts and comments, some long enough to be blogs. That's been a lot of fun.

I have been crazy busy of late that hasn't allowed me to be here. Between numerous trips to North Carolina to fix the 2nd story from the trees that fell on the house, to incredibly wonderful sales increases at my restaurant, to church and little league volunteer work, I've been a little swamped. Add to that the time my family deserves, and I haven't had time to blog or do much else on the internet this past month.

Needless to say, the reconstruction on my home in North Carolina will begin next week, so once again, I'll be in North Carolina for part of the week. I've missed everybody, but things are good and the Lord has done well in taking care of us as He always does. Thanks for the prayers!

See you in Church (TODAY)!

1 Year ago

2008-05-16T05:36:00.000-05:00

Today, it's been a year since I started blogging. I've had my share of explaning to do. There's somethings I would do and not do differently. However, I have left it all out here in cyber space for you to see. It's been a real honor growing with you. It's been tough at times, but those tough times have sharpened me.
Today, I'm up at my home in Black Mountain, North Carolina working on lining up repairs for my home. Mother's Day night there was a severe wind storm here that caused 3 trees to fall on my home destroying the vast majority of the upstairs.

So, what's the deal, Lord? This was a question I asked at 1am Hawaii time when all my wonderful neighbors in North Carolina started calling me to let me know of the tragedy that had taken place (Hawaii is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in which North Caroline lies). I was not as upset as you might think. Stressed, yes. Upset, not really. Why? That's easy; this home isn't mine, it belongs to the Lord. As I have stated in the past, none of what I have is mine. I am just a steward of what belongs to the Lord. Sure, I can be frustrated at events like these. Likened to when I was school, I didn't like going to school because of the work and energy involved, but it was necessary to make me smarter and, hopefully, wiser. Tests were hard and required a lot of work and study. In the end, school, as hard as it was at times, made me a better and more productive person for society.

The same can be said for trials like the one I am going through now. It can be said for a trial you might be facing now. It may not be easy, but God's plan for your spiritual educataion is perfect. If you ever think your trial is too tough to bear, just spend an hour reading the book of Job in the Bible.

So many times we put God in a box. He has such a desire to bless you, even in those trials. Like a loving parent who may toss a child who doesn't know how to swim right into the pool. Terrified, the child struggles to gasp for air as their arms and legs frantically whale in every direction. The parent watched for signs of drowning, yet roots for the child to swim. Sometimes the distress is aparernet and the parent reaches in, pulls the child out. However, when the child has caught their breath, right back in the child goes. After diligence, the child will begin to tread water as the parent cheers the accomplishment. After a while, the water, once a source of terror, becomes the source of fun. (This is how I learned to swim).

God doesn't want us to drown in our trials. He's rooting for us to master them. don't go half way or make deals with God. Don't box him up in a 90 day campaign where you say "O.K. Lord, I'm committing to this for 90 days, and if I don't see results, it must not be true." That stuff and line of thinking will frustrate your walk with Him for a very long time, because He'll keep tossing you in the pool til you've got it.

Let me give an example of what I mean and I'll be done. I speak on tithes and offerings a lot because I believe it is the number one way to show obedience and faith. So many times, I've been in church services where it will come that time of year, usually in January, when tithes and offerings drop off. People over spend for Christmas, and in order to catch up on their bills, they "cheat" God. Inevidently, the pastor and church administrator see this happening so the pastor puts together a sermon series on "the tithe" or something to that effect. Many times, in the past, I recall campaigns such as "prove the tithe" or "put God first." This year, I had a chance to speak on the tithe in my church, a huge honor. This year, church leadership decided not to put a box around a time period we thought people needed to commit to. Instead, we taught, in a soft manner, the truth...God gives us everything, none of it is ours, and He only asks us to give back 10%. That's quite a deal. We explained that the blessings don't always come financially but in many other ways. The church responded in a way that has been far better than a 30, 60, or 90 day campaign. They keep giving because they like giving and it shows. The church as a business is in the black, even when we've over spent some of the budget. The church, as an entity, is gowing in number by leaps and bounds, and its growing spiritually in its muturity. For the most part, the vast majority has gotten it, and they've seen the fruit begin to bloom. When we keep God out of a box, His blessings are as the stars in the sky, limitless.

So, as I deal with my new "tree house," I am excited about the new things God is teaching me (yesterday was patience with the insurance man). Who knows what today will bring. I still have 3 trees on my house, but God has given me so much more than this small challenge. For one, I have the gift of eternal life.

Pray for my safe travels back to O-Town on Saturday; I look forward to seeing you in church this Sunday.

Hard Look at One Self

2008-05-02T19:35:00.002-05:00

There I am, it's all there. As I gaze at myself in the mirror, I notice all my imperfections. The scar on my neck from disc surgery 8 years ago still hasn't disappeared. I have more skin surrounding the small layer of fat around my neck than I did in high school. I definitely have more skin surrounding a larger area of fat surrounding my abdominal region. It seems as if I have less hair on my head, especially above my forehead, and what's left of it seems to be beginning a metamorphosis into gray highlights. It really can make you sad.

Then I started feeling a bit spiritual and looked at it as the way God looks at us as we grow and as we sin. Sin ages us before the Father. It adds blemishes to a body created for worship. It turns something very beautiful into something old, saggy and ugly, and, just like sin, we do it to ourselves. The scar is a result of a major accident, just like some sin can leave visible scars from catastrophic failures in our lives because of the poor choices we've made. The fat is likened to that of habitual sin, over time we keep doing it, and it just starts to show, and we look uglier because we don't show self-control. The hair...well I'm not sure how to equate that right now, but maybe some of you can help me with that one.

Here's the cool thing. It's all fixable, the scar included. Jesus forgives us when we ask for it...its really just that simple. However, there also has to be repentance...not so simple. You see, repentance requires us as believers to turn from our sin, to make a concerted effort to leave a sinful nature that entices us into quick thrills but leaves us feeling hungover. If we accept Jesus as our Savior, then we must accept Him as Holy, an therefore, we, in order to be with Him, need to be holy. This can be achieved through forgiveness and repentance.

The scar, we apply B-12 to and lotions to help it blend into the skin. A month after my surgery, the scar was enormous and very prominent. After working on it, it has gradually begun to dissipate. The fat, well that takes more work. I have to exercise. I have to lift weights, stretch, discipline myself to exercise and to eat better while watching my portion size. Just like repentance, it requires a decision to turn from my old habits and follow a new road.

I hope all that makes sense. Why am I writing about this today? Last month was my wife's birthday, and I got her a trip to Hawaii. This is our second visit. It's an incredible place to visit, filled with history and beauty. Before her birthday, she was watching an infomercial on T.V. and was suckered into buying a product. Ordinarily, especially had I not gotten the trip, I would have been annoyed that she purchased this product. The product? P90X Extreme Home Fitness! one week before she was surprised with the trip, the dvds and guide arrived. Now before this program arrived, I had sort of plateaued in my workouts. I lost 40lbs last summer before a cruise, but I had stopped progressing. I was still doing the same stuff ,and doing the same ole exercises but their effect was not as noticeable as before the cruise. Because my regular routine had stopped having the the effect of looking like I had lost 40lbs, and because I knew I was going to Hawaii, an earthly paradise, I decided to help make my body more acceptable to look at on the beach, so, to my wife's astonishment, I said I would do the program with her (remember, she didn't know about the trip forthcoming). [Special Note: This is the way it should be with repentance...exercising our souls for that trip to paradise...Heaven]. One week later she got her surprise. One week later I had dropped a few pounds and was looking a little leaner. After 4 weeks of work, I've lost 2 inches off my waste, added two inches to my chest, and added one inch to my arms. It has NOT been easy, but the results are telling in the mirror. I now have pecks and don't have man boobs. My stomach shows off a canyon from my rib cage to the belly button and the top two abs just below my rib line are visible with the creases that show my new "2 pack." I'm well on my way to a six pack, something I haven't seen since high school. I sweat. I hurt. I'm sore. I look better. I feel better. I am better. I hate it, but I love it. I thought I'd miss the buffets. I thought I'd miss eating out regularly. I thought I'd miss flopping on the sofa and filling my brain with mindless drivel on T.V., but I don't. I haven't missed a workout, some of which can take 1.5 hours. I actually look forward to them now because I like what I see happening in the mirror. I'm doing the same spiritually. Life is a beautiful gift and it shouldn't be wasted. Neither should we waist the beautiful gift of Grace.

I hope this finds you well, and that it has encouraged you today. If you're looking to better yourself spiritually, find a good church and some spiritual workout buddies to help keep you accountable. If your looking to better yourself physically, then I HIGHLY recommend P90X. You do all kinds of high impact workouts that include: Back and chest, shoulders and arms, legs and back, back and biceps, chest/shoulders and triceps, yoga, kenpo, plyometrics (intense), core synergistics (extremely intense), cardio, and don't let me forget the most notable exercise in the program, Ab Ripper X which has 349 ab exercises pumped into a gut busting 16 minutes of highly intense exercise (most intense of the program), which you usually do after doing an hour long weight lifting workout that has you already gassed. Did I mention, "you hate it, but you love it." It's so true, but so worth it. If you're intersted chect it out here... http://www.extremebodyworkout.com

I have one more Sunday before our journey to Hawaii, so I hope I see you in church this Sunday. I hope to see you "ripped."

Hey! Isn't that B.........

2008-04-24T19:12:00.003-05:00

Wooooooo! I almost over corrected coming down the 408 Expressway yesterday. Had I continued turning out of the spin, I probably would have rolled my truck several times. I remembered the lesson and wisdom the movie Cars taught (my son, Brady, makes me watch it like every other day) where Doc tells Lightning to turn Right to go Left, in order to drive in a slide.

So what happened? Honestly, I got caught up looking off the road rather than on the road, where my eyes should have been. As I drove east, I saw some activity on a billboard. Guys were working hard to put the finishing touches on a new billboard on the side of the expressway. I was entransed. Then...bumpppppppppbbbbbrrrrrrrrrrppppppppp.........rrrrrrrrrrrrrttttttttt! BEEP, BEEEEEEPPPPPPP! Rrrrrrrtt!

I took my eyes off the road.

Isn't this the way it is with Jesus. So many times, we get caught up in the periphery of the road and forget to look at the road and where it's taking us. When we look to the side, we drift from the road's plan. We drift to the shoulder of life, risking a blow out or, even worse, totaling our vehicle, throwing our precious cargo, and getting ourselves seriously injured or killed. However, when we follow His plan for our lives, the road will takes us to His willed destination for our lives, keeping us safe within His plan.

Watch out! Satan wants you to look away, and it only leads to destruction. Keep your eyes on the road, and as Brian Regan says, "SHOWHORSES! 10 and 2; 10 and 2!" You'll have to catch his act to understand that quote.

See you at Church this Sunday! I can't wait to see you and your friends!!

Feeling Depressed?

2008-04-18T18:13:00.002-05:00

Man, I can't take the gas price increases anymore. It'd be nice to have $2 Gas again, and I can't believe I'm saying that. This week it cost me $84 to fill up my truck. That'll last a week and I'll have to do it again. Now do the math for a month...it's getting tight.

Tom Feeney sent me this e-mail today to put things into perspective, and it sent chills down my spine. He wrote,

"A market bubble is created by easy-money policy and speculative investment followed by a collapse in market values. Our economy teeters on recession. Politicians reward big labor with new powers at the workplace. Large government programs are proposed to create taxpayer-funded jobs. Entitlement programs for seniors and the poor are initiated. Temporary "stimulus" packages are passed to placate seniors, farm workers, unions and the unemployed. Presidential candidates and congressional leaders attack free trade, vow to instate an estate tax on the rich and increase taxes on corporations, individual taxpayers and stockholders. Foreign countries' economies grow at accelerated rates while American jobs disappear. Regulations are imposed to crack down on Wall Street, while state and federal governments bring lawsuits against demonized corporations for various offenses. Private companies are more heavily regulated to "protect" the public. Next, the Democratic governor of New York condemns the "increasing concentration of wealth and power." Outcries against excessive executive salaries on Wall Street become widespread."

He hits it right on the head. Sure sounds like we're in trouble, but he's not writing about 2008. This was a history e-mail for me. It refers to 1929-1935...The Great Depression!! GASP!! Both parties are selling us out and we the people are going to get hurt.

Be sure to VOTE for the right person (not party) this year.

See you in Church this Sunday!

TAXES!!!

2008-04-15T20:46:00.003-05:00

Romans 13:6-7
"This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."

Today I paid my due taxes. The majority of which came from winning a truck and a trip. That made the whole prize a little less fullfilling. Nonetheless, I still paid my taxes, and since the government says that I have until April 15, I decided to keep the money in the bank earning interest (I wasn't procrastinating...I had my taxes done before February 15th, it's important to keep a good accounting of what the Lord has entrusted you.

Jesus said to give to Caesar what is Caesar's. I still just don't understand why, if 10% is enough for God, does our government, need about 25 - 33%...that's just ridiculous. In the future, God will still only ask for 10%, yet the government will try to increase what it believes is it share of the money you earned. Thank God I realize it's not my money, and that government will have to answer to God for why they were such POOR stewards of His money. I look forward to seeing that day.

Rest easy, the governement is "giving" you back a stimulous check this summer. I found that one humorous, too, since it was not there's to begin with, yet THEY are GIVING it back to me. How thoughtful!

Let me climb off my soap box and encourage you. Jesus loves you, and no matter what government does, it's all His to begin and end with. So let Tax Day go.

See you in Church this Sunday!!

It'll ALWAYS catch up to you

2008-04-01T09:15:00.004-05:00

I can't say it enough, BE HONEST in who you are, were, and what you say. I've dealt with this issue in the past but I cannot emphasize it enough. In particular, if you sell yourself off as something you're not, or that you have never been, it's going to burn you.

Check out this story breaking today After a Life of Lies, Man Admits He Was Never an Oakland Raider - FanHouse - AOL Sports Blog . This type of stuff will not only embarrass you, but it'll embarrass your family, your business, and those that have supported you. Phony diplomas, embellished resumes, and stories at the "water cooler" that just aren't true will haunt you forever. People do not forget a lie someone tells them. Why? People desire to trust and want to be around trustworthy people, however, when lied to, they automatically throw up a defense that guards them from frauds. Hillary Clinton, I'm paraphrasing here, said that the nation's people want to trust their politicians again. Then, she made some errant statement about being under fire in Bosnia on a trip to visit the region as First Lady. It turned out to be false that she was under enemy fire and it ticked off the secret service and the military (they would never let a First Lady disembark in a precarious situation like that). In fact, there was video proof that this event happened in an entirely different manner. Can I trust Hillary now? No. You might forgive, but, unlike the Lord, you always remember that this person or friend said this to you and lied. They become a liar, and they're tagged with that moniker for a very long time.

I recently had a relationship with a "friend" who was saying stuff he wasn't. He even went out and bought some "accolades" that many of us, honestly and devotedly, work years to achieve. He used the accolades to sell himself as the right man for a job and a position of immense authority, yet, when things weren't going his way, he blamed everyone else but himself. Considering the level of what he stated was his educational background, a Bachelors degree, a Master's Degree, and even a Doctorate, it didn't make sense that he would look at everyone else. After years of that type of education, somewhere along the line you learn how to problem solve on a higher level than a "It's not my fault" level. (Personally, the first person in my business I look at when things aren't going right is ME.) Then, I and others checked into his credentials and they turned out to be fraudulent. In fact, the State of Florida calls each instance a 3rd degree misdemeanor, punishable by one year in prison and a $1,000 fine for each count. Granted nobody's perfect and we all have our deficiencies, but to live the lie is definitely not a deficiency, its dishonesty, and in this particular case...criminal. Flaws, friends live with and work together on supporting each other. Fallacies tear friendships apart.

I love the way "God's Word Translation" puts Proverbs 22:1 "A good name is more desirable than great wealth. Respect is better than silver or gold."

This "friend," to this day, is still pointing fingers at others, including those that once supported him only to be called betrayers. Definitely not the case and, in time, his current followers and friends will have a day when they, too, will wonder why he would not trust their friendship or relationship enough to resort to embellishing the facts about himself or other events surrounding his life. Today, he may be a little more wealthier, but it cost him trust and respect, and the moniker will travel with him for a great while.

So, to my friends, to my colleagues, to my leaders, lying will cost you more than friendship, it'll cost you respect and trust. They are not easily re-earned. Can we forgive? YES, ABSOLUTELY! We have to. Can we forget? Not easy at all. In most cases, that's only something God can do.

Keep your good name. I hope to see you in church This Sunday!!

God's got this one!

2008-03-26T21:17:00.002-05:00

For my good friend!

Mat 5:10
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Mat 5:11
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

Mat 5:12
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

It's been a long time

2008-03-19T05:42:00.003-05:00

Hey gang!

Sorry for missing the posts for the past 9 days. This has been a month where I'd write something, read it, and say, "Dang! I don't want to say that." The reason...I just want to set the record straight, but I don't think it will matter here on earth as much as it would pain my Father in heaven.

Last year, around this time, was one of the most stressful, unbelievable times in my life. A person I trusted, betrayed that trust with half truths and mind bending comments directed at me and some friends. Fortunately, I had a group of men surrounding me who prayed for and with me during this trial. They also kept me accountable. If I was wrong, THEY LET ME KNOW IT. I grew tremendously over the year spiritually because of it, and I learned to trust my friends rather than those who wanted a position of power seated next to those who had worked hard. Those who wanted to use other's positions within life's journey to set themselves on a higher pedestal while never truly working hard for it. Those who like to name drop "friends" names to give themselves credibility, I learned who they are.

Palm Sunday marked a day when I went to the alter during the service at FBC/Orlando and sobbed. I sobbed so hard at my seat that a puddle of tears was under me. Why God? Why am I experiencing such anger, such disbelief in mankind, in a "man of God." Thankfully, FBC/Orlando welcomed me for a few weeks to heal. Pastor Uth was terrific and perfect for soft words of healing. FBC/Orlando was my home after I became a Born-Again Christian and the place I learned most of the Biblical principals I practice today (or try to practice). It was awesome how the Lord brought me back "home" after such a trial.

This month is known as March Madness. I felt it, not because of basketball, but because of events last year. Now, even as I move about my neighborhood, I struggle with certain people I come across in daily life because I know who they are now after an incredible coming out party. I struggle with forgiveness, but constantly ask the Lord to give me the strength to offer the same grace He offered me at Calvary. Pray for me. I'm still struggling with forgiveness for some. As the Lord has forgiven me, I, too, need to give grace freely, relax and get by it. I ask today because in 2 days, about 2000 years ago, He had the strength to LET mankind put him on a cross, die for MY sins, and ask the Father to FORGIVE ME. I need to practice my Savior's grace.

Romans 15:13
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

See you in Church this Easter (He lives)!!

Some inspiring stuff

2008-03-10T12:05:00.001-05:00

2 Timothy 1:9
"Who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time."

Ahhhhh, forgiveness! It's so sweet! I'll leave it with that alone.

See you in Church this Palm Sunday!!

Word has it...

2008-03-09T13:14:00.004-05:00

So, I've been informed that an unauthorized biography has being written about me and some of my friends (including those in ministry). I've had my fair share of people asking me about it and all I can say is "I don't know." This comes from my general perspective of "know what you know, and know what you don't know." So, we'll see in due time. No worries here. God's grace is enough for me, and I'm excited about what He's doing in my life and the lives of people around me. I believe this is the devil trying to pull me and others back to a year in our spiritual walks we'd like to build on rather than fall into the trap of bitterness, rage, hate, and unforgiveness (oh, that would be awful). I said I was moving on, and I'm trying to do so, this is just the devil's way of trying to take the focus off an incredible healing and movement. Even today, I saw the tears of pain from a tough time, but He's taken us through.

For those of you who have asked, my Chick-fil-A business is still doing well. The remodeled look has increased our guest's satisfaction and sales have followed. We're STILL renting our our home in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and we have a link on this blog if your interested in a cost effective week long vacation in a beautiful and relaxing setting with the amenities you're used to having at home. Liz and I are extremely active at Eastpoint Fellowship. Liz is serving in the nursery and sitting on the building committee (growing into a new multi-use building is exciting). I'm serving on the Praise team (drums), nursery (at times), and on the finance and personnel committees. I know I said I wasn't ever going to do the finance committee thing again after my last stint at another church, but the Lord has an incredible sense of humor and He put me right back on the finance committee in another church...that's some funny stuff. I'm still umpiring baseball for Florida's 24th district and playing softball for the Chick-fil-A Thunder on Monday nights (to date we're 2-1). Liz is busy working with me at Chick-fil-A, usualy on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and she's busy year round with TMA Cheerleading. She's the head coach for middle school and took her squad to a 2nd place finish for the Southeast Region in January (I'm very proud of her work).

The kids are growing, Jordan's almost 11, Candace is 8 going on 16, and Brady is a fiery 2. Candace is deep into Horseback riding with an English saddle and she's becoming a good gymnast. Jordan has lost interest in baseball (broke my heart), but he said it's only for the time being. He is big into football now, which takes the baseball sting away, just a little. I've put on my football coach's hat and begun instructing him in the basics of football. He really enjoys it. Brady just likes anything with a "Cars" theme. He thoroughly enjoys watching NASCAR, especially when the camera angle takes us to a turn where the cars can be heard vrrroooming by. He, also, enjoys the pit stops, always pointing at the action.

That's a little about me and my family to date, authorized. Don't let the devil pull you backwards. Look to today and tomorrow. Don't worry about it...our God is in control. From a Charile Hall cd...“May God Bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart. May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy. And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done.”

If you're not in church or not in a church family, come see me and I'll plug you in right away. See you in Church next Sunday.

A Season of Time

2008-02-24T13:57:00.003-05:00

For me, a season of time seems to have passed. Sometimes the season is brought back to the forefront of my life, but the Lord has placed, in His perfect timing, individuals in my life that have been incredible. They've allowed me to be transparent, to cry, to vent, to listen, and even to challenge or rebuke me. The best part is that they pray for me.

Last Sunday night, I had an opportunity to be with Chris Tomlin and Louie Giglio. Louie even let me know that it was his dad that created the Chick-fil-A Trademark "C" icon that we all see today, and that it only cost Chick-fil-A about $350. Who knew?! Louie and Chris talked about their mission to young adults, particularly college students and the revival that's hitting colleges across America which has really ticked the devil off...just look at the violence and killings at VT and NIU. There's a movement that needs to continue, and I can even see it in my college employees, all of whom haven't known the Lord when they came to work for me, but some now have turned their lives over to Him.

Louie stressed to me to be true, be honest, and know your place. If you've seen Louie speak then you'll understand what I mean when I say the Louie really made me feel "small." I can honestly say that position was awesome, and that I needed to hear it.

Chris was fabulous, as well. I've been performing songs in church, and really had no clue how many of them were his. I just never paid attention. I think Chris likes it that way. He said it's for God's glory anyway. That's awesome. So grounded. I've known other artists, even within the Christian faith that come off...proud or arogant. Not so with Chris, and he has the awards (I checked this week) to live that way, but he doesn't. It was really refreshing to see these two guys this past Sunday night.

If you ever get to see them (which may be in a while cause they were on their way to Korea and other parts of Asia this past week), go and let the Lord speak through them. They had a memorable impact in my life and encouraged me to enojy God's grace and invite more to enjoy it, as well.

Tonight, at Eastpoint, we will Baptize 28 new believers. It's been awesome being a part of the movement in East Orange County this past year and it wouldn't have happened had I just sat back and was "comfortable" in my place. God really sifted me this year, and I'm better for it.

See you in Church Next Sunday!!

Sick of the lies!

2008-02-13T21:32:00.002-05:00

I've had my fair share of this over the past year, and frankly, I'm tired of those in high places spinning lies into a little bit of truth. It's really begun to frost me. All it does is hurt people.

In the Roger Clemens case, this guy, innocent or not, needs to be a man, and tell the whole dang truth. The same thing goes for his trainer. I believe both these guys are telling bits of truth to lend credence to their side of the story. In the end, they both look like jibber jabbers.

I understand Roger made about $100Million after he alledgely started being injected with HGH. That translates to higher ticket prices at venues the taxpayer has paid for with his hard earned wages throwing fish, chopping wood, welding steal, teaching a class, etc. I can understand why he did it, if he did it, to keep up with the "JONES" and stay ahead of the chicos down on the minor league farm. I got that. What I don't understand is this...WHY ON EARTH, WITH ALL THAT IS WRONG AND SCREWED UP IN THIS WORLD AND THIS COUNTRY DOES CONGRESS GET INVOLVED?!!! This blows my mind. We have hearings that amount to a bunch of puffed out chests and photo ops for these clowns, both players and politicians, yet we can't have a fair discussion about the Fair Tax, Rising VIOLENT crime, Health Insurance costs, the falling value of our national currency, the fence on the border...BUT THIS, WE GOTTA KNOW WHETHER ROGER HAD A B-12 OR HGH SHOT IN HIS BUTT! I mean, this is lunacy. I'm sick and tired of all these clowns. I work too hard to have this "productive government" stealing my paycheck to ask Roger Clemens whether or not he's lying about taking steriods while playing baseball. What's even more ridiculous is that it appears we, the people, are going to put more of these clowns right back into our presidency, whether it be Barak, Hillary or John. WAKE UP AMERICA...THEY DON'T CARE ABOUT US!

Define for me...INSANITY. Get out the Duct Tape as my head is about to explode! ARRRGGHHHH!!!!!

I'm sorry this wasn't a "build ya up or encourage ya to do" type of post. If you want that kind of encouragement, come to Eastpoint Fellowship this Sunday and hear me speak in all three services about "the Tithe." See ya in Church this Sunday!!

Ice Storm Warning!

2008-02-06T21:32:00.001-05:00

Sorry, I haven't posted in a few days. I was in Black Mountain, North Carolina for the past weekend to go skiing at Ski Beech. While I wanted to ski on Friday, Mother Nature brought a real bad Ice Storm, so I had to go on Saturday (more crowded, boo hoo).

I've posted some of the pictures from the ice storm to let any of my Floridian Bloggers see what a true winter can do to you and the surroundings. This particular ice storm covered everything in 1 inch to 2 inch thick ice. You could hear trees all around us and in the distance popping and buckling under the stress of the ice. It was paticularly freaky for us because at about 4:30AM we heard what sounded like twin sonic booms. Instead it was a tree snapping in half and falling on the house, where the upstairs master bedroom is located, and where my brother and sister-in-law were sleeping.

Very Exciting Morning after that!! All an Ice Storm is is a bunch of rain, some thunder, and the rain falls through a layer of warm air then hits the earth where colder air has settled in. When it hits the colder layer of earth, it forms ice when under 32 degrees. YOU NEVER DRIVE IN THIS STUFF! It's far worse than snow, in fact, you prefer snow 10 times out of 10 times over ice. So we had to wait one more day for skiing, but it was a good day laughing with my family, playing outside (no power since trees knocked it all out), and enjoying the peacefulness of the iced up surroundings (only to be disturbed by the occassional tree exploding).

Then on the way home, we stopped at a Wendy's in South Carolina (exit 33). I knew from the moment we drove up to the order box we should have driven off. After waiting 3 minutes with no acknowledgement that we were even there, we get "HOLD ON PLEASE!" We then wait another 5 minutes, mind you, there's only one other car in the drive-thru, and get "What Do you Want?" GASP!!! I get past the rudeness and proceed with the order and then pull up to the window where I can see into the restaurant. The order taker/cashier doesn't even look at me when she takes the credit card, closes the window halfway only so I can here a customer at the front counter telling another employee that they didn't get one of their 1/4 lb double stacks to which the reply was, "You didn't order one!" My mouth is wide open looking at my wife. The customer, politley I may add, says, "Yes I did, here it is on my receipt." Now, I wouldn't have been so polite to the cashier; my comeback would have rattled cages all the way to the corporate executives. The cashier looks at the receipt and then corrects herself only to say, "Oh, well I already gave you that!" Oh my gosh!! Why didn't I drive away? (Oh ya, I already gave her my credit card). The serving area looked like a bomb had hit it. Filthy, filthy, and filthy. We then have to pull forward as the food's not ready and someone else is behind me (which is cool). Five minutes later we get our food. We are barely on the interstate when Brady is throwing up (toddlers get sick first because of a weak imune system), then Candace was about 2 hours later, followed by Jordan in another 2 hours, then Liz and I (even though I was ready about the time Candace blew). Who knows if there was cross contamination, e coli, etc, but I'm willing to bet the Food Poisining came from a poor representation of the late Dave Thomas and the legacy he left behind. Shame on you South Carolina Exit 33 Wendy's for not taking care of the people who take care of you.

Tomorrow, I will insure we are 100% food safe, as I do everyday at Chick-fil-A.

See you in Church this Sunday!

The Purpose of Tithing

2008-01-28T21:20:00.001-05:00

Let me encourage many of my fellow believers to put God first in your life. This can be shown by giving. "OH LORD, HERE IT COMES, MARTHA! HE'S GONNA ASK US FOR MONEY!"

Yep! But it's not your money in the first place...It's God's money. He has just entrusted it to you. I know I've wrote about the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) before, but you need to realize that everyone is just a steward of the things God has placed on this earth. In the Parable of the Talents, Jesus describes Himself as a very difficult boss to work for. Check out verse 26, "YOU WICKED LAZY SERVANT! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed?" I thought I was a tough boss. This all comes after giving this particular servant 1 Talent (about $1,000), another servant 2 Talents, and another 5 talents. The ones with 2 and 5 DOUBLED their Master's money. The servant with just 1 talent hid it and did nothing with it (We could use this also for sharing the gift of Salvation...it's a priceless talent many of us hide, but that will be another Parable of the talents story). Then in Matthew 25:28-29, "Take the Talent from him and give it to the one who has the ten talents. For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." This is the rich "get richer" and the poor "get poorer" way we're so accustumed in life today, and it comes from Jesus, yet I wouldn't call it poor get poorer, rather, I'd call it the lazy get theirs...verse 30, "And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." This is Jesus sending the servant to hell. Hell is full of fire, so you could, in turn, say that Jesus coined the phrase, "You're Fired!"

There's so much that could be taught from the Parable of the Talents that one could write a book on it, but this just begins the subject of tithing.

My Tithing testimony in a nut shell:

God blessed me with an incredible restaurant. It provides well for me and my family. It even allows me to help other families that are hurting or needing. There's nothing like doing something for someone from which the fruit comes from your personal hard work. That's me now, but a long time ago, I used to believe that if I tossed a $50 bill into the offering plate, the church was lucky to have me. If a sermon was particularly good, I might "bless" the church with a $100 bill, and they were lucky to have it. Then the Lord moved in my life through a message that first really gripped my wife. Malachi 3:8c-10 "But you ask, 'How do we rob You?' In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse--the nation of you--because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have enough room for it." My wife was so moved that we had an "engaged" conversation on the way out of church. We were so "engaged" I drove right through the out stretched arm of the Highway Trooper directing me to stop when we were leaving church that day. I didn't care; I was so mad. I wanted to ring that pastor's neck for this bologna that Tithe meant 10% of what I earned. That's CRAZY! Insanity! No way I'm I giving 10%, they should be honored to get 50 bucks. That's the way I thought coming out, but not my wife...nope, she was convicted by the Holy Spirit. So I said, "Whatever, fine! We'll try it, let me figure out how much I make after taxes and I'll tell you what 10% is." THE CRAP HIT THE FAN! If I said the last conversation was "engaged," this was full out nuclear meltdown when my wife said it needed to be 10% of my gross earnings and not the net. I don't speak in tongues, but that day, words like "Filmerflaghter, stifullnusgut, and ratifstunkle" flew out of my mouth. This Pastor just wanted MY money! That wasn't the case, and after I prayed that the Lord would show my wife that I was right, he softened my heart and we began to tithe, and we tithed off my gross (If I had tithed off my net, then God would be second to the the government since they collect taxes off my gross).

The purpose of tithing is to put God first. Let me also say He does open a FLOODGATE you cannot imagine. Sometimes I fall into blessings I wasn't even looking for. It's not always money these blessings; it can be health, friendships, relationship stuff, family stuff, etc. The blessings are amazing, plus you really get a handle on money. You learn to save 10%, as well for yourself (THAT'S MORE CRAZY TALK), and you live within your means or 80%. God's only asking for 10% (That's less than what my franchise fee agreement asks for), and He LETS you have the other 90%.

I promise, it's an incredible blessing when you tithe. I now, freak out if we forgot it on the way to church. I've even turned right around to make sure we have it and bring it. I hope you'll take up the Lord's challenge to bring the tithe. He is a man of His word and lives up to the promise. The rich do get richer!

See you in Church this Sunday, and don't forget the tithe (it's worth the blessing)!

I had something else to say

2008-01-26T16:16:00.001-05:00

But I decided to post this. No matter how many people you tell, no matter how hard you try, only actions will speak more volume than your words alone.

I know this first hand in my family, business and ministry relationships. You can be the biggest blow hard, but it will always catch up to you if people find out you have lied to them, deceived them, or told only 95% of the story. That makes you untrustworthy. Matthew 15:11 says, "It's not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth." In the book, "The 4:8 Principle," we are encouraged to, "Start programming your mouth by first disciplining your mouth."

I know I have shared some of my spiritual journey, particularly with last year's disappointing set of events set off by, well, some folks not being openly 100% honest. Here's what I know and believe, if God is in it, don't be afraid to share it. Anything less, is a display of unfaithfulness that can lead to tremendous hurt, specifically within the church. I truly believe that had there been true openness rather than verbal rhetoric, many people would never have made an exodus to other church families. Sheep are are not trusting. They only trust one...the shepherd. If the shepherd does something that is out of the ordinary the sheep get suspicious and ornery. Usually, this happens when the regular or true shepherd is not there and replaced by the "hired hand." The sheep know, and thus flee when they find out it's not what they thought.

Pastors and friends, if the Lord has given you a vision for leadership, revival, expansion, retraction, etc, don't be afraid to share it...and share 100% of it. Start with those around you, the most trusted, trustees and colleagues. Then try it out on your deacons, and ministry leaders. Form a plan on how to bring it to the entire congregation, without holding back one iota of the plan. Full disclosure is what Jesus was all about. Then, rather than silly remarks of, "I can't tell you yet;" don't say anything until you can tell us. Stuff like that gets to be like "the murmur" that arose in the church of Acts. The flock begins to dwell on "this news" rather than the task at hand, which should be saving lives.

Even today, I have encouraged my pastors and friends to only tell the the congregational flock news when there's news to tell. It has been incredible the lack of "murmur" that results. Instead, stuff like, "things are moving in the right direction" circles within the flock. They feel good about it, and are not shrouded in mystery. It works just the same in business.

If I have nothing to add, then I don't add. If there's nothing but only a hope for an event to take place, I don't say anything in my business, until it is on stone tablets. It eliminates the stress mystery brings into the workplace. It can be the same in ministry and in family.

"The 4:8 Principle" by Tommy Newberry is some real good reading. I hope it blesses you as much as it blesses me. Here's to me seeing YOU in church tomorrow!

Can Anything Go Right?!

2008-01-22T20:16:00.001-05:00

Just so you know, I'm standing looking straight up with my arms stretched out east to west going, "Can anything go MY way?!"

Seems like that's the way we pray sometimes. "Lord, please give me a good day. Help me get a good grade on my test tomorrow. Lord, please help me get the raise I need, and the promotion I deserve. Lord, I could use a better car and a nicer home. Do you think it might be possible for me to fall in a pile of money, too..."

Last night I was reminded by my daughter of how we really should pray. It went something like this, "Dear Jesus, thank you for today, angels watch over me, help me not to have any bad dreams. God bless everyone, and take care of the children in Africa that don't have anything. Help the soldiers to come home safely. Thank you for letting me go horseback riding, and thank you for letting me go tumbling. Thank you for a good church where I can learn about Jesus...Amen!"

Seems like Candace's prayer is one that the Father would more like to hear from all of us. So many times we sound like bumbling begging fools, rather than children of the King. Children for whom He provides so much, we should thank Him for what He's given us, no matter how much we think we were snubbed, after all, He's not snubbing us at all; He's preparing us for the right time to handle such a blessing. Realistically, He probably could cut us all off and be the better for it, yet that's not what He wants. He wants to hear from us how good He has been to us. After all, He sent His Son to die for us; the least we could do is thank Him continuously.

I know that those who work for me, the ones who show the most appreciation for what they have, usually get what they deserve. Sometimes it doesn't come when they want it, and sometimes it comes when they don't expect it. But the ones who show me the most honor, and show me they are grateful for the work, they get close to me, and I want to take care of them. I believe this feeling is derived from being a Child of the King. It's an inherent trait from our Father.

So when I look to the Heavens and cry out, "WHY CAN'T I HAVE IT MY WAY?" I really should be looking to the heavens and screaming out, "THANKS FOR EVERYTHING!" Try it! It has worked wonders for both Candace and me.

I thought about this "why can't I get what I want" deal when I found out Fred Thompson pulled out of the Presidential race. Looks like I'll be voting for Romney in the Florida pole now.

For everyone I didn't see this past week at church...I really missed ya. For everyone I saw, it was another great Sunday. For everyone this week...I'll see you on Sunday!!

Random Thoughts....

2008-01-19T21:11:00.000-05:00

**"If trees could scream, would we cut them down? We might; if they screamed for no good reason!" -- Jack Handy

**I was encouraged to post my pick for the 2008 Republican Primary, so I have decided to through my support behind Fred Thompson. I was originally behind Mike Huckabee, and I like him a lot, especially his Fair Tax plan, but his environmental stands and his criminal leniency, concerned me greatly. Sooooo, I decided to go with a guys with short answers and one who was know for not doing a lot in Washington. What we need is a government that doesn't get involved in EVERYTHING, and Fred's that guy. He's got a "Reaganess" stamina and his beliefs line up with mine conservatively. I think he'd make a fine leader. I've also decided government needs to learn how to downsize just like we all do professionally and personally when money is scarce, so I decided I DO want a Property tax break, and I'm voting YES to Ammendment One. It won't effect our public service at all.

**I was invited to the movies this Sunday, but I'm pretty sure there was a mix up with my name being on the invitation.

**Pray for Erin Brock and her second Spinal Cancer surgery.

**Church is a place where we should be real with God.

**Somehow I got suckered into watching another "Original Lifetime Movie Classic" today called "Mom at 16." At least it wasn't another one of those guys beating up their wives episodes. I get enough of that on COPs.

**The restaurant is still "almost" finished...

**This year is off to an incredible start!

**Brady is a big Tony Stewart Race Car fan...Varooom-room! He loves the movie "Cars" as well.

**Have you ever had pocket Aces twice and lost both hands to dumb luck flops to a clown who has no idea what he's doing? I have. "If it weren't for luck, I'd win every hand" -- Phil Helmuth.

**SEE YOU IN CHURCH TOMORROW!!

NOOOOOOoooooooooo!

2008-01-14T14:09:00.000-05:00

For a while, it hasn't bothered me at all. Most of the stuff they've put out has been just sheer excrement. My wife almost had to Baker Act me because of this bologna. Their make believe world has gone too far this time! NOW, season 7 of "24" has been canceled due to the writers strike. Monday's will be a bore once again! Arrgggghhhhh! Save us from this nonsense, Jack Bauer!

Crazy, Crazy, Crazy!

2008-01-11T16:24:00.000-05:00

This is currently my state. I am so busy with things, I forgot to write. Sorry about that to my loyal blog readers.

Let me get you up to date with the business. Chick-fil-A is going strong. We are wrapping up our construction, doing the punch out lists. We're getting ready to rip out and replace the (destroyed) landscaping around the building so that will make me feel like we're almost done. The outside, in parts, still looks like a construction zone. So, I look like the picture above.

Let me get you up to date with church. Eastpoint is growing like crazy. It's not all transfer of letter stuff, either. We had Junior Hill preach this past weekend and had 33 decisions made. 16 new believers!! We just packed out the house with a little over 400 in worship. That's putting people all over the place and having guys like me stand in the back. Sooooo, considering we've had services like this becoming a little more common, we're getting ready to add a 3rd service. Also, we're in the middle of an incredible building campaign to build a 400-600 seat multi-purpose facility. There's other stuff the Lord has blessed us with at Eastpoint, but at this time, I'm not at liberty to discuss it. I hated when pastors would say things like this previous statement, but now I totally understand why...sometimes it doesn't pan out, sometimes it does, and sometimes God's plans are much bigger than your plans. Now I understand that pastors told us stuff like this to get us to pray rather than wonder...so pray! I think Eastpoint is on the verge of the "God's plans are bigger than what we're thinking."

I did want to put in a plug for a couple of ladies that are friends of mine. Dana and Lori run an upstart school called Family Christian Academy. They are expanding next year to K thru 4th grade. They have met in a unique place but are in the process of moving the school to a much more traditional facility due to size and growth. Pray for them. They are in a very exciting time of growth. Plus, if you have any children on the east side of Orlando looking for an affordable Christian school, consider dropping them a line at chrispyntr@yahoo.com. It's been a pleasure helping the school with several chapel services, and I know the teachers and parent leaders to be incredible people.

Pray for my friends, Michael and Michelle. They need work and they are just getting by on some part time stuff. Michael is a construction company owner that has felt the collapse of the housing industry first hand. They're just not building new homes anymore due to a high level of inventory. So if you know someone who needs a quality metal framer or punch out specialist consider dropping Michael a line at logan82695@aol.com. Michelle is also looking for work in the financial secretary/assistant arena. She is very capable and an incredibly dedicated employee. I had the privilege of working with her at a previous church where she was the financial secretary for about 16 years. That's some serious loyalty. She can be reached through Michael's e-mail, as well.

I hope things are going great for you, if not, let me know so I can pray for ya. Otherwise, I'll see you in Church this Sunday.

Squealing Pig or Quiet Lamb?

2008-01-02T20:19:00.001-05:00

I gotta tell you, I really don't click when it comes to wisdom from Kay Arthur, B-U-T...I had a little conviction hit my heart this morning. First, why does she always have to call me "Belove-Ed?" I never go up to any of my friends or even a stranger, for that matter, and say "Belove-Ed, I'd really like to go the football game with you, here are some tickets." It just doesn't suit me, I guess, but she really hit me hard this morning.

I had just finished my quiet time, flipped on the radio and BOOM! RIGHT IN MY FACE!! You ever have the Lord hit you with a big fat creamy humble pie? That's what it felt like. RIGHT IN THE FACE! BOOM! Just like that. Here I am thinking I'm the "Cat's Meow" (thanks Casey), I just said my prayers, threw out some prayers for those in my life that I know are hurting, expressed my gratitude for a wonderful family, and a blessed 2007, asked for wisdom in 2008, and BOOM, or should I say, SPLAT!

She offered up this verse about Jesus...

"Isaiah 53:7He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so He did not open His mouth."

S-P-L-A-T!

In summary, Kay asked if I was heading into 2008 squealing like a pig or silent like a sheep. She noted that even as Christ was beat up, spit at, and subsequently sentenced to death for crimes He didn't commit, He did not open His mouth. It was so important that it's said twice in this verse. Jesus said NOTHING! DOUBLE SPLAT!!

Considering all I've been through, Lord Forgive Me! I have been a squealing pig in 2007...help me to be a silent sheep in 2008.

Watch out for those pies and I'll See You in Church this Sunday!!

A New Year, A New Beginning!

2008-01-01T20:38:00.001-05:00

Ahhhhhhhh 2008 has finally arrived!

2007 was fraught with excitement, disappointment, new friendships, broken friendships, awards, remodels, and new church families. It has been a roller coaster of emotion, but I am better for it all. This year challenged my faith, my friendships, and my business. It's been incredible to see and feel the Holy Spirit's divine touch on my life.

2007 saw us win a trip to the BCS Championship Game in Glendale, Arizona, for the big game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Florida Gators. We sat in on the set of ESPN's Game Day for the sound and visual checks, then went into the game sitting on the 50 yard line to watch the Gators put a hurtin' on the Buckeyes (unfortunately today's Capital One Bowl wasn't the same deal). The best part of the trip was getting to see an old pastor friend at his church. Just awesome how the Lord worked that one out! I even got to be apart of UCF's first C-USA Championship year all the way through.

2007 saw us win Chick-fil-A's Symbol of Success Award, the most prestigious honor bestowed upon any Chick-fil-A Franchise Owner. We got the keys to a brand new Ford F-150 Lariat in UCF Knight colors, of course, in Scottsdale, Arizona from Truett (and we got to hook up with our pastor friend yet again).

From Left to right, that's Dan Cathy, President of Chick-fil-A, Liz, Me, and Truett Cathy, Founder and Chairman of Chick-fil-A. Just incredible the experience God blessed us with in winning this award. He really outdid Hiself on this one (Malachi 3:9-10...It's so true).

2007 saw it's share of hardships. We saw our friends line-up or fall away in the face of tough times. Our friends stood up for what and who they believed. Some lost friendships and some lost their jobs. Businesses diminished in tough markets and some businesses, like mine, were re-built to expand in good markets.
2007 saw new friendships forged. It saw the healing hand of God upon those friendships. We even decide to take some time off, blow off steam, and take a vacation together. It was one of the most memorable vacations I have ever been a part. Why? Because we let loose and had some genuine fun!

2007 saw some family highlights, as well. Liz was promoted to Head Cheerleading Coach of Middle School for The Master's Academy, Jordan helped lead his youth football, as their tailback, to the semi-finals in Orlando, Candace started gymnastics and has become a very seasoned horseback rider (her and Seleca below), and I dropped 45lbs in 4 months (Put 10 back on during the holidays though, but we're going to take it right back off), I was a part of a softball team that made it to the quarter finals in the Disney Softball Tribute, and I was invited and selected to Umpire at the State Junior Little League finals this year.

This year allowed me the opportunity to search my faith so deeply, I could never imagined it would be this eye opening. I was called away from one church and quickly placed in service at another church. Even my pastor friend from Arizona ended up serving at the same church in Orlando. Incredible how the Lord works in our lives. Many of our friends are serving in completely different churches than the one we were in at the beginning of 2007, yet it has brought us even closer together then when we were serving under one roof. It has even developed new friendships or rekindled old friendships. The Father has been amazing to us all.

Now, here's to the future! While I didn't win this year's Symbol of Success Award, win tickets to the SEC Championship or the BCS Championship, we did enjoy some incredible days. I can't wait to see what 2008 holds in store for us. I'm sure it will be chalked full of ups and downs, but I'm sure glad I'll have you along they way!

"This is what the LORD says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, 'Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 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.'" (Isaiah 43:16, 18-19) I'll see YOU in church this Sunday!!

Christmas, It's About Receiving?

2007-12-25T19:29:00.000-05:00

For so long, I've heard it said that Christmas is about giving, or that it's better to give than to receive. I disagree.

GASP! Huh?

I had this revelation recently during some quiet time, and had to sort it out for some time. Christmas, It's about receiving. You can see it in my children's eyes. The only thing they truly give is smiles on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. They don't work so they can't buy presents. However, they are masters of ripping off the neatly wrapped paper surrounding they're gifts. Like buzz saws through wood, they cut a swath of paper likened to the day after New Years' Eve on Fifth Avenue in New York City. It's a mess.

So where do I get off telling you to forget about the adage "It's better to give than to receive?" It comes rooted in scripture. Christmas does begin with giving. Jesus was born of a virgin, in Bethlehem some 2000+ years ago. That was God, the Father's gift to mankind. God loved us so much that He GAVE His only son to us. That's the start of something more incredible than any of us could fathom. Let me put it this way, I have a son, Jordan. I do enjoy my friends and love them a lot, but would I give up my son's life to save them from their mistakes? Not a chance! Yet, here, the Father loved us sooooo much that He gave up His ONE and ONLY Son to save us from our mistakes.

Here's the kicker, Jesus is our gift from the Father. John writes in his gospel (3:16) that God so loved mankind that He gave us His only Son, that whoever believes IN Him will not die, but have eternal life. The kicker is the believes IN Him part. It could read receives Him and work just fine. We have to ACCEPT the gift for the nature of the gift to be realized. Paul wrote in Romans 3:24 "Being justified as a GIFT by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus." He also writes what happens when we receive this gift in Romans 4:17 "...those who RECEIVE this Gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Christ Jesus." In Romans 6:23 he writes again, "For the wages of sin is death, but the fee GIFT of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord."

So it is my belief that Christmas is about receiving more than the giving. Sure it begins with the giving, but the receiving is so much more important. We cannot have eternal life unless we receive. Romans 10:13 "For whoever will call upon the Lord will be saved." That could be interpreted, whoever RECEIVES the Lord will be saved. The gift is important, the receiving is critical. For example, if I sent you a gift, and you never received it in the mail, the purpose of the gift could not be realized. The purpose would be that it filled a need or want in your life, but never receiving it would mean no enjoyment. It would be in jest. A waste for me to have sent it, and a loss of future enjoyment and usefulness for you. Christ was given to mankind as a sacrifice for our sins. Should we not accept this gift from the Father, we lose out on a future of incredible eternal enjoyment. The gift has been given, so I propose this: If it is more important to give than to receive, then where would that leave us after we die? Paul said it in Romans 6:23...we will die. However, if we RECEIVE, we get eternal life with Jesus. Christmas, Jesus was given to us as a gift, it's up to us to whether or not we chose to RECEIVE this incredible gift. I hope you had an amazing Christmas with friends and family. I hope, if you haven't received the gift, you open it, and enjoy the special gift. Hoot and holla just like my kids do on Christmas morning, excited about what they have received. It's far better to Receive! Then, I hope to see you in Church this next Sunday!

INSPECTIONS

2007-12-18T04:50:00.001-05:00

Ahhhhhh! It's got me up a little early this morning, as I have to help my contractors fininsh some tasks before the inspectors show up tomorrow. I'm praying for late morning inspections or afternoon inspections. That's not likely due to the little amount of construction going on in Orlando at this time, so I'm betting on the early birds to come out. That being said, I'm up early to get the job done.

HOPEFULLY, we'll pass and open sometime on Wednesday!!

See you in church this Sunday!

Just rambling

2007-12-16T20:26:00.002-05:00

Hey folks!

I needed to post something, or I'm sure you would have thought something happened to me. No worries, I'm still here and stressed to the max. Most of the stress comes from the remodel of my restaurant, but it's going to really look nice. On a side note, we could have opened on time had I not had a concrete subcontractor that knows more than the building inspector. Of course that's said in jest. STUPID, STUPID, STUPID, that's what it gets you when the all knowing sub fails 3 consecutive inspections. Sheesh..."Shut up and eat some humble pie," thats what I wanted to tell him, but I forgave and am moving on.

Yesterday, my flag football team got knocked out of the Greater Orlando Playoffs in the semifinals. Today, my fantasy football team advanced to the Fantasy Bowl Championship. In 13 days, UCF will play in the Liberty Bowl. Man, I Love football!! Perhaps, one day, I'll post a picture of me in uniform...it's a grand sight!

Just ONE. That's all it takes to make a difference. It's been an incredible and challenging sermon series at church, and I am buying in. I have the ONE I'm praying for and inviting to church, do you know that ONE you're going to bring. We had a record (standing room only in both services) crowd this week, but maybe you missed it, sooooooo...

I'll see you in church next Sunday!!

Missing Chihuahua!

2007-12-10T06:09:00.000-05:00

I went to Christmas at Avalon on Saturday night. It was jam packed. There were rides, snow, bounce houses and food. People were everywhere. We spent the night up there family and with a few of our friends and their families.

We go the stage where they are about to do a Christmas play, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," and then a lady comes out to do some announcements before the play. She announces things like after the Grinch will be a YMCA demo, be sure to get a sampling of the food being sold, visit the vendors, etc. Then she makes an announcement that cracked me up. She did it so nonchalantly it caught many of us in the crowd off guard. Here's the quote and I kid you not, "The Pet Rescue center would like to ask for your help; they lost the chihuahua they brought as it got out of its collar. Please be on the look out for this dog."

"PET RESCUE" LOST THE DOG THEY HAD RESCUED! Define irony.

I found this amusing, but as usual, also, found a way to apply it. Jesus died for our sins. When we accept Him as our Savior from sin by asking Him into our hearts, and turn from our sin, Jesus rescues us from hell. The best part is that no matter how much we screw up after that, Jesus will never let us go. Sure we will sin again, but the Holy Spirit fills us and turns our inner gut when we do something we know is wrong. This is the turning point (the gut turning) it is the Holy Spirit convicting us of our wrong; we confess the sin and try to stay right with God (repentance). All of it is like a collar or life ring around us that keeps us within His kingdom. Jesus will never let us go, so we remain rescued for eternity.

Also, to log the event, last night we had our Sonseeker Christmas party. We had over 38 people there. Many new faces in the group, and some familiar faces were gone. We've scattered and serve in other church bodies, but it sure is nice to come together to share, laugh and cry about what's happened in our lives since we seperated some time ago. It was good having some new folks and it was sad missing the old folks. Still, we had a blast eating, fellowshipping, acting and doing a Chinese gift exchange. Plus, we capped off the night with a special celebration for some special friends, the Bartons. Last night blessed Liz and I tremendously, and we're eternally grateful for all of our friends, present and past.

If you haven't, please get rescued by Jesus. Merry Christmas! See you in church this Sunday.

Can We Bring Back Ronald Reagan?

2007-12-07T13:18:00.000-05:00

Ut oh, it's said that you should never talk about religion or politics and I'm doing both, GASP! I disagree with that notion and thus, here we are.

For sometime, I was strongly supporting Fred Thompson. He sounded, looked and, acted presidential. His swagger reminded me of the great Ronald Reagan. However, he was late getting into the race, and I really haven't seen him pounding the campiagn trail selling his ideas and casting vision. It kind of felt like "O.K., I'll do it if I have to," was his attitude toward the whole thing. I'm less inspired now than I was before. I also, felt, other than Rudy Gulliani, Fred had the best shot at beating Hillary Clinton. I'm not so sure now.

So, after watching 2 debates for the Republican party (That YOUTUBE one was such a sham), I've decided to support Mike Huckabee. He seems the most honest about his vision and he answers questions in a non-political way...I LOVE THAT! He's candid. I'm not sure he can beat Rudy, who I'll support on the ticket if he gets the nomination (He really turned New York City around, and because of it, they were much better prepared to handle 9/11). I do not agree with his abortion stand, yet I don't agree with which most things Hillary stands.

After much thought and consideration, I'll be voting for Huckabee in the primary (not that it matters since they are disenfranchising the voters of Florida both Republican and Democrats because the election is earlier than the Kings and Queens of the respective parties would like). That's another blog for a different time as I am sick of both parties! It's about the POWER rather than the PEOPLE. Can we bring back Ronald Reagan?

A New Year is almost here

2007-12-04T08:58:00.000-05:00

I received a phone call today from someone struggling in their walk. Past hurt continues to bog them down in bitterness toward someone who hurt them. Considering the circumstances I lived through this year I can say, "I UNDERSTAND." I know this plight. I lived it, too. At times, I still live it, yet grace is setting me free. This is what happens when so much dishonesty and and word manipulation happens. It can blow friendships apart. Throw money into the mix and it can get down right nasty.

Here's a thought for today, "It's NOT too big for Jesus to handle." Look at the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. People were manipulating His words, lying about him, and cashing in (30 pieces of silver) on His pending death. Jesus still defended Himself in trial, yet when sentenced, took our sins upon Himself and died for us. This event is recognized 2000 years later. Jesus very well could have waved his arm like a Jedi Knight, and cleaned the sasses we were to His kingdom right off the planet. He didn't. He chose life...for US. He then spent 40 days after His Resurrection encouraging the Apostles to get off their pity pots, and get involved in serving the world.

My encouragement to my brothers and sisters still struggling with they way they were ostracized by one man, a group of people or a church is this..."Get off the pity pot and get involved in serving your new church families and the world." That's what Jesus wants. That's what your new church family needs. That's what the world needs. I say that with so much love. I love you! I understand this struggle so much. I, too, at times when I least expect it, am thrown back into this "fire" by blogs or magazine articles, driving by certain places, or my plain own bitterness and pity pot. I gotta tell you, SATAN LOVES IT. Why let him win?

I have found serving in my new church family has helped keep me focused on the mission...OTHERS. It takes me away from the bitterness. It is by no means a silver bullet cure. It helps, though, and I honestly can say, at times, I still struggle, too. I will continue to pray as some still struggle, and I will continue to pray as some now serve, that the bitterness Satan loves so much is driven out of us by our desire to serve one another.

See you in Church This Sunday!!

Where Am I?

2007-11-30T21:50:00.000-05:00

Man, I'm going weeks at a time between posts. How unacceptable is this? I did want to explain. Check out my posts on "Chick-fil-A Remodel Updates" and you'll understand where a lot of my time is being spent. It's an exciting time for a rebirth of sorts. Pray for me, and pray for my friend Michael Barton as he struggles to find construction projects. It appears to be picking up a little in the near future. Still pray for him and his wife. See you in Church this Sunday!!!!!!

Does Jesus Even Want Me?

2007-11-24T20:28:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I wonder why on earth does Jesus want me? Of all people, why me? I always let him down. I mess up constantly, yet, He still wants me. Is that amazing or what!?

I came across this question in my quiet time with Him, and it was answered so quickly. I believe the answer came so quickly as it was like Jesus stopping the devil from putting such a ridiculous thought in my mind.

Jesus WANTS to be with me because he loves me. Just as I love my children when they screw up or disappoint me, I still want to be with them. It breaks my heart to dicipline them. Why? Because it separates me and them from times that could be filled with fun and enjoyment. However, it has to be done to help them to grow to be respectful, honest, and of good moral character. Know all that it's important to know that I'd die for my children. That's what Jesus did for me. He died for me to keep Satan from taking my life straight to hell.

I hope you'll give Jesus a chance in your life if you haven't already. HE WANTS TO BE WITH YOU!

Go Knights...2007 C-USA Eastern Division Champions!

See you Church this Sunday...it's gonna be great!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T14:26:00.000-05:00

Is it me or did Thanksgiving Day come up fast this year? Last year at this time, I was extremely involved in the Chick-fil-A Symbol of Success penant chase, and this year I'm ripping my restaurant a part in an effort to compete for another symbol; plus, I want to be more up-to-date astetically for my guests. I'll post pictures when I get back.

It's Thanksgiving so I've decided to post my heartfelt gratitudes. Thanks to...
My Savior, Jesus for His blessings
My wife for how she loves me
My parents for a lot
My kids fo their love
My friends for their friendship
My special friends who hold me accountable (Michael + Dom)
My staff who work so hard
My management team who sell out to the goals
YOU, you've blessed me with reading and commenting here...I'm sharper for it.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, and see you in Church this Sunday!

Man, Am I Busy!!

2007-11-14T15:58:00.000-05:00

I have been swamped with loads of work due to the upcoming remodel my restaurant is about to go through. So, my posts have not been deep, and they've not been wide. They've been in between. I'm looking at what I've wrote so far and its just a bunch of jiberous nonsense.

Pray for me and my team as we get ready for a slow period (4 weeks) in our lives work wise due to the remodel. A lot have found work at other Chick-fil-As, some have elected to take unemployment, and a few will still work for me doing marketing or construction support related tasks. I even have 4 employees heading up to New Orleans to help continue recovery efforts up there from Katrina. They are working at another Chick-fil-A severely understaffed due to the amount of people who moved away, yet they serve a ton of construction workers and relief workers helping with the rebuilding of New Orleans. The team in New Orleans is exhausted and are eagerly awaiting my staff's relief and support. Pray for their safe travels.

Special thanks to Michael for helping me out with a few chores around the restaurant to prep us for the remodel. He did an excellent job and I'm sure we'll find him some more work. He's a very gifted contractor.

I hope you're in church this Sunday!!

A Salute to my Dad

2007-11-12T18:09:00.000-05:00

This is an arial view of the USAF air base in Da Nang, Vietnam from 1967. My dad, MSGT Tom Fish, Retired, served this air base and the men around him from 1966 to 1967. For his service to his men and his country, he received a bronze star. He never had the hero's welcome due to the polictical unrest surrounding the Vietnam War. Yesterday, in church, he and others were brought on stage; they got the hero's welcome...a standing ovation.

Happy Veteran's day, Dad...I'm real proud of you!

Just as many soldiers have given their lives for my physical and political freedom, Jesus gave His life for my spiritual freedom. I hope, as you accept the freedom this country's soldiers have afforded you, that you would accept the freedom fro sin Jesus has offered you. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS ACCEPT THAT HE DIED FOR YOU AND YOUR SINS AND THAT YOU'RE SORRY FOR SINNING.

One other thing, congratulations to a team member of mine, Cody. Cody followed Jesus in believer's baptism on his 18th birthday yesterday. I'm very proud of you, Cody. Congratulations!

It was a packed house this Sunday, but I'm sure we missed a few of you...I hope that you're in church this Sunday!

Born Again

2007-11-09T21:00:00.000-05:00

We are only 8 days from the start of the remodel. I am excited! A lot has gone into this remodel. A lot of prep, time, planning, etc. has gone into the remodel. It's a huge process. It will not happen overnight.

This remodel has helped remind me of being Born Again in Christ. It didn't happen over night. It wasn't one event. A series of events took place in a process that brought me to the Lord. Many people were planning it. God's Vision for the lost was known. His blueprint (Bible/John 3:16) was followed.

Just like the restaurant will have a brand new inside, that's what being born again is all about. A Brand New inside. Jesus comes into the inside of you...your inner being, your core. He tears apart everything that is old, outdated, throws it away, never to be seen ever again. Then being the GC, no, not the Gerenal Contractor; being the GC, the God Christ, He rebuilds the interior of our inner being. New walls go up. New equipment is placed within us, things that will help us grow are added, and we're cleaned.

Just like the restaurant's remodel will take a few weeks to complete, the process of coming to know Christ is a process. If you have someone you know and love, perhaps a friend or family member, start by praying for them. This is what gets the bidding and blue prints going. Hopefully, everything will come together in the end and you, or your friend, or your family member will have a Re Grand Opening...A New Birth.

See you in church this Sunday...and invite a veteran!

Crank Dat Soulja Boy

2007-11-08T19:56:00.000-05:00

Check out Brady doing that Superman! For those that know the song, my Chick-fil-A employees and my hip wife have taught me the dance moves to this song. They play it every week at UCF Football Games, and even the players from both teams can be seen on the sidelines doing this song's respective dance. I wanted to be a part of the fun in the crowd and learned, for the most part, the song's particular dance moves. Honestly, I look like an enthusiastic middle aged rhythm deprived fan going through a mid-life crisis, but it gets all the young people around me all fired up. Maybe that last sentence should read "gets them all cracked up." Anyhow, just me building a report with the crowd (that and giving them crazy amounts of Chick-fil-A Sandwich "Be Our Guest Cards"). Come check me out at UCF football games in Brighthouse Network Stadium's Section 225 row Q. It's a blast!

So there it is...I promised Brady in his Halloween costume, and I delivered. See YOU in Church this Sunday (and bring a Veteran)!

Going The Second Mile

2007-11-03T19:52:00.001-05:00

Before you play the video, scroll to the bottom of this web page (after several of my blogs) and push the pause button on the music box playing (it's right above the picture of my North Carolina home). It's the only way you can hear the video, and, hopefully, be moved to go the second mile.

This is a small 5 minute video my team has seen, and with they are very familiar. It was produced by Dan Cathy, President of Chick-fil-A. It was produced to show Chick-fil-A's fanchisee's Dan's vision for the company, a vision to go the second mile.

I am reminded of going the second mile on a daily basis, it's a vision that has been explained and cast over a couple of years. However, in today's world, the second mile is not necessary and not usually completed. Usually, like the one, bitter jew in the film, we do only what's expected of us. Nothing more. In work, we complete only the tasks assigned to us, and nothing more. Perhaps at home, you do only what is the expected traditional roll of a husband, wife, mother, father, son or daughter. Even at church, you may only do what has been asked of you, but you never go the second mile to do what's needed of you.

You can find this story in a small blurb in Matthew 5:41, from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.

I wrote after reading Michael's blog yesterday, http://michaeldbarton.blogspot.com/2007/11/what-comes-up-must-come-down.html, about an opportunity to go the second mile. I even did a chapel service for a school on The Second Mile. As I understand it, the kids are all coming up with ways to go the second mile.

Will you go the second mile? No complaining during that first mile either. Do both miles with Joy! You will be a blessing and be blessed for both miles.

I'm on drums tomorrow. Services are at 9AM and 10:30AM, and you're hearing one of the songs we're worshipping with tomorrow.

See you in Church Tomorrow!

Welcome

2007-11-01T16:02:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a bunch of new blog readers. I've invited a few more people to my web page, and they have a reason to be here. I hope you do more than just look for those web links. There's some good reading here (well, some think it's good reading, and some think its not).

I did want to share Brady's first Trick-or-Treat experience yesterday. He went out as Superman. (I'll post a picture in a day or so). He was a little reserved at first when ringing the door bell, but he caught on fast. Once he realized that when you ring a door bell and someone answers with CANDY, he was a pro. You should have seen him this morning when I took him to Grandma's (where he's watched on Thursdays). Excitedly, he ran for the door bell, pushed it, moved to the side to infront of the door and held out his hand...waiting for candy. Hillarious!

I'm playing drums this week, see you in Church THIS Sunday!

Just wandering through blogville

2007-10-30T20:25:00.000-05:00

Some of you are still wandering, not knowing where your place is in this world (I know, that's a Michael W. Smith song). Some of you are still homeless. Homeless from church. I want to invite any and all of you to my church this week. (THIS IS A SHAMELESS PLUG! It's on my Web links...Eastpoint Fellowship.)

As I've stated in the past, I have started applying the Talents with that which God has graced me, and I'm playing drums in the praise band. It's one of the many hats I'm wearing again on Sunday morning. We play a real nice contemporary mix of Christian songs that we can all sing together in worship. It's a real nice experience, and Jason, our worship leader, is doing a real nice job of setting the service's heartbeat.

You're hearing one of the songs we'll be doing this week ("Hungry - Falling On My Knees"). It had me in tears behind the drums as we practiced tonight, and I could feel the Holy Spirit flowing through me (that sounds like The Force from Star Wars); it's true! Usually, if something moves me like that, I'll lose my place and meter and then...the band falls apart and we sound awful. That didn't happen! I kept going! It's an awesome song that's going to move you this week!

We have a special guest speaker this week in Dr. Bill Faulkner, Director of G.O.B.A. (Greater Orlando Baptist Association). I know he'll move you, as well, as the Holy Spirit speaks through him. You're in store for a real nice treat this Sunday!

I really hope you're there; see YOU in Church THIS Sunday!

Living Sacrifice

2007-10-30T05:29:00.000-05:00

I found myself all over town yesterday, and ya know what? It rained everywhere.

Here's some inspiration for you today. " Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship." (Romans 12:1) God's been so merciful with me (and you, just in case you were on the high horse today). We deserve so much worse than what we get. Also, as Americans, we have it so much better than the rest of the world. Just check at my missionary's blog, "Mantlo's in Manilla" to see what you're missing (or not missing). God has been very good and very patient with this country.

Think about offering your body as a LIVING sacrifice. Share your faith, start a conversation with a coworker, just find out where they go to church. Yep, it may be uncomfortable (a Sacrifice), but this will allow for you to invite them at some point in the near future to church. Heaven will be so much better with them there!

I hope you enjoy the music I picked out for my blog. Should anything be too loud, just turn your speakers down. Most of my selected music has a reason it was picked and distinct meaning to my life or life's experiences.

Here's to you being His LIVING sacrifice! See you in church this Sunday (I'm on drums this week)!

AHhhhhhhh YEHHHhhh!

2007-10-28T22:20:00.000-05:00

24K (A.K.A. Kevin Smith) got it done tonight! Over 40 carriers, broke the UCF career rushing record and the season TD record, AND the knights won!!! Nice. What a way to cap off the weekend!

We saw a few people come to the Lord today and 2 services bursting at the seems. Gotta love those problems of not enough seats in church. Perhaps a 3rd service is needed again. Love it, love it, love it! I'm having fun again! Also, we had another baptism in my pool today. The Lord is blessing us with His vision, and we get to be His tools. Nice!

The Red Sox appear to be on their way to winning the World Series (again). Who thought we'd say that. Plus A-Rod decided $20 Million in one year playing for the Yankees wasn't enough. Sheesh, What I could do with $20 Million in a life time. Amazing!

Happy Birthday to my nephew, Tyler, who made a nose first plunge into his First birthday cake. That'll get the camera flash bulbs going.

All I have is random thoughts for now, but maybe I missed you in church today. I sure I hope I don't miss you next week (we'll get you a seat). May the Lord Bless you and we'll see you next Sunday!

Gators Heading to Atlanta?

2007-10-27T19:01:00.001-05:00

Again, let me preface this by saying I'm always a UCF Knight first and a Florida Gator second. When the Knights play (and so far get creamed by) the Florida Gators, I route for the Knights. I grew up as a Gator Fan, but ended up going to UCF for my undergraduate degree. There, now you know.

After today's poor defensive performance and a couple of early fumbles by offense, the Gators look poised to be in Atlanta for New Year's Eve. A ton of things will have to fall into place for them to be in Atlanta the first week of December for the SEC Championship, and I don' see it happening.

So (as Jason Avera would start it off), SO, it looks like I might be fielding a ton of calls about my connections to the Chick-fil-A Bowl and my ability to rustle up some tickets. Just let me know...

Lucky for me, my game is tomorrow. Should UCF beat Southern Miss, we're very much alive for the C-USA Eastern Division Crown. Go Knights. It'd be nice if UCF comes away with a win after Forida and South Florida lost. Who knows, maybe after tonight, Duke may have beaten Florida State, eliminating them from Emerald Bowl contention. Sorry, that was offsides and worthy of a Taunting penalty.

See you in church manana!

I can't take it anymore

2007-10-26T15:15:00.000-05:00

If you know me, being from Bronx, New York, I'm a HUGE Yankee fan. This World Series is killing me. My younger brother, Mick, is from North Bostonand my dad is from Pittsfield, Mass. They're some more obnoxious Red Sox fans and a part of this group called Red Sox Nation. The Red Sox are the Yankees most heated and hated rival. It's sports' biggest rivalry.

First, I believe sports has too many "Nations." You have Gator Nation, Red Sox Nation, Spartan Nation, Spurier Nation, and the United Nation(s). Its all very annoying, especially, RED SOX NATION!

Second, the only good thing about RED SOX NATION is when David "Big Papi" Ortiz gives God all the glory when he crosses Home Plate. That's IT! There's nothing else good about this stinking team. Serenity NOW!

See you in church this Sunday!

To help you understand

2007-10-24T04:35:00.000-05:00

I know it's early. I went to bed early and some how I woke up early. My goal was some extra sleep, but some how it still evened out because now I'M UP EARLY! O.K. that's out of my system.

Here's a Bible verse I came across this morning. "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)

I've had many anonymous comments on my blog the past few days. Some, I now know who they are (they told me), and some I still do not know.

For those who know me, I love relationships with folks. Personal relationships with folks are deep. This is why some preachers and friends of Jesus, discuss a "personal relationship" with Him. It's deep; you know Him. He speaks to you on a gut level. It's not just something you hear in a sermon and move on with the other 6.5 days of your week. His Holy Spirit fills you with His presence. It's a daily walk with Him. It's talking on the spiritual hotline (prayer) with Him. He moves you. He convicts you. He loves you. This is what Jesus has done for me.

This is also what my friends do for me. That's what is lived out on my blog. Sure, you may disagree with me, and I give the forum of an open comment section to share. It's where we can be gut level. Sure, others will see. The world will see, but the world needs to know I'm no better than they are. We're all losers without Jesus. I do not claim to have all the answers or to be an "all-knowing prophet divinely inspired with the Words of God." I share. I share what I feel. I share what I believe. I challenge. I challenge and question things I do not believe or feel are incorrect. Then the comments pour in, and it sharpens my mind. These are very much, in my opinion, the type of discussion Jesus had with His own Apostles. That's why I show you the exchange in Mark 10:35-45 in "Jesus is for Losers." None of it would be possible without that personal touch.

You can be who you are. You can be my friend, even if we disagree. However, we can't grow together anonymously. Why do you think it hurt Peter and convicted him so much after he denied Christ 3 times. Peter had a personal relationship with Jesus. Those who saw to Jesus' crucifixion, had anonymous relationships with Jesus; look at Pilot's approach...he washed his hands of the matter, yet he still made a decision to send Jesus to the cross. Pilot wanted to be anonymous. An anonymous Apostle (until the kiss) turned in Jesus...yes, Jesus knew what was brewing, but, I believe, the other eleven apostles had no idea until the kiss; sure they definitely knew something was up after the supper, but until the kiss, Judas was sharing his discontent anonymously with others.

I'm not saying being anonymous makes you Judas or Pilot. Not even close. I'm not saying being anonymous makes you my enemy, not even close. However, being anonymous does not allow us to grow together. I will still allow for anonymous to be a part of the discussion, and I will still give the comment its due diligence, but anonymous will never be able to have the most awesome relationship with me like the personal relationship I have with the Lord...Personal.

That doesn't mean you have to come out of the anonymous closet with regard to previous posts, but in the future, I hope we can build that personal relationship.

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)

See you in church this Sunday!

blogando!

2007-10-23T20:02:00.000-05:00

Blogando...I'm taking tonight off. Sleep easy.

See you in church this Sunday!

Jesus is for Losers

2007-10-22T17:37:00.001-05:00

Steve Taylor once sang Jesus is for Losers. He is. I'm a loser. He died for me and other losers so we could in the end, WIN!

I know this is two posts in one day, but it's been a long day, and I needed to post, blog, etc. I had a friend call me up a half hour ago. This is what those who truly have a concern do. They do it in person. I am still waiting for anonymous, and I'll continue to wait, and I'm not mad at you. However, this friend shared with me their concerns regarding the post about me at a former church. Even they said they thought I went to my most previous church. (This does make it sound like I'm ostracized from many churches, but its not the case. I've been a member at 4 churches total)

After sharing with my friend for about 15 minutes on the phone, they made me take a look back at the post. Granted, it does look like that. I type fast and I'll even concede maybe at a subconscious level, I may have wanted it to be the most previous church. It's not. I can't go back. Out of respect for someone else, I did not reveal the church at which I was...they go there. Hopefully, one day, tradition and catchy phrases won't be so important to them. Hopefully, they'll come to know Jesus as their Savior. They're a loser, but I know that can be changed.

You have to realize, it's not about you. This blog is about me. It's about my journey through life, and life's dealings with me. It's a transparent look into my life and how God's dealing with me. It's really an amazing thing. I blog to inspire me. If it inspires you, how great is that. If you have a beef with me, you can post a comment. Everyone can see how I deal with it. I can go back and see how I deal with it. My friends, my accountability, they call me on it. They did today. They challenged me. I even have made several phone calls looking for this person who I may have offended at church or on the blog based upon clues left in comments on my blog to your identity. It's my day off; I had the time. At the time of this post, I have not found you. That's why I left my e-mail address (I'm serious).

Comments on my blog come from a diverse group of people, on different journeys. They may be ahead of you on life's journey or behind. I don't make them feel bad about where they're at. I don't judge them. They vent. They share. They hurt, and hopefully they'll heal. They're nuts. They're sane. They're just like you and me. Losers!

Forgive me if I led you astray or fostered an imagination that took you away. I am truly sorry. My friend helped humble me, Christ has helped heal me. I'm not quite there, but I'm still striving to be more like Christ. Pray for me this week...in reality, all this stuff today (or yesterday, since I didn't know what was going on as I celebrated Candace's Birthday until today), may have helped me more than you know. I think I will make some other calls this week. Its time to work together.

To quote Steve Taylor, "Just as I am. I am stiff-necked and proud, Jesus is for losers. Why do I still play to the crowd? Just as I am. Pass the compass, please. Jesus is for losers. I'm off about a hundred degrees."

To my friend on the phone...THANKS! That really made me think, look, and listen. Your wisdom really challenged me and lifted me up in the end. That means a lot!

To anonymous, I really do care. Your opinion matters more than you may ever know. Whether you're a C3er or not, it matters a lot.

For my friends at C3, it sounds like many, many people are coming to the Lord, how exciting is that! Heaven's going to be a better place with them there, no doubt. I've not ever mentioned C3 in my blog, but I told my friend I would be less general starting today. It's an awesome day!

Comment if you agree or disagree.

For anyone else, just perhaps, I'll see you losers in Church this Sunday!

Worn Out

2007-10-22T09:45:00.000-05:00

I wept this morning!

I opened my blog and saw a ton of comments (funny, yesterday I was so jealous over someone else's blog because of the amount of comments they had, and God chose to give me something I "wanted"). I realize, I didn't want it.

I am really worn out over a bunch of stuff. The most worn out over the comments hitting me pretty hard from a couple of blogs ago. Hard hitting stuff that really gets my mind thinking and asking questions. That's actually a very good thing. It makes me a better person. But I'm worn out over bickering within the church body. I really am. It won't change until we all talk it out. At some point you or I will post something, we'll think we know what that person's talking about, blog about it in response on our blog in a manner that's not very Christ-like, feel like we posted something Holy Spirit inspired, get on our white horse, stick our nose up in the air, and DESTROY THE BRIDE OF CHRIST!

We're like little children bickering over who's mommy's favorite. I'm reminded of when John and James asked to sit on Christ's Left and Right side in Mark 10:35-45. This really perturbed the other Apostles over the gaul that these two would ask to sit in Christ's elite chairs. Immediately, Jesus knowing feelings among the Apostles were hurt, He chose to lift them ALL up. It's really an incredible story that we can ALL learn from and work toward the same outcome.

I have deleted some of the anonymous comments because of a request from the author. I don't know who it was, and I may never know, that's up to the author. I would have left them otherwise. I don't want it to look like I don't give people freedom to express their thoughts, beliefs, etc without being censored. So anonymous knows, I took off the comments when I read that you wanted it removed. I honored your request. I hope you'll honor mine...e-mail me so we can set up a time to talk in person. I'm at Knitefish@aol.com. You could even set up an anonymous e-mail using google or yahoo to converse with me in private until ready to do it in person (that's O.K. for me). Perhaps, one day, both sides will honestly be able to sit and talk through the whole thing, and truly move on. I Pray this comes soon, before Jesus gets real tired of waiting on us to do it ourselves. While I may not see you, I hope you're in Church this Sunday! -- Your Brother-in-Christ

Whew! We needed that one!

2007-10-20T19:44:00.001-05:00

Just letting everyone know that UCF Football is back in the hunt for a C-USA title. We stuck it to the Western Division's leading team, Tulsa, today 44-23. Finally, Kyle Isreal looked comfortable playing QB. Don't forget 24K, Kevin Smith...4 TDs again. He truly is Golden!

Way to go Knights...I still believe!

Today, I walked around an ole church of which I used to be a member

2007-10-19T20:20:00.001-05:00

Right now, some one's thinking "Oh No, he didn't!"

That's a lot of fun thinking about that right now.

You could say I was excommunicated from the place.

Consider this a secret among friends, but I wanted to let you know. I parked right in front of the sanctuary, I even took pictures while I was there. I have the footage to incriminate me. Pictures of me smiling and laughing; pictures of my kids smiling, pointing, making a big deal of the fun we were having back at my ole church. I haven't been there in awhile and a whole lot has changed. I didn't see anyone I knew.

I thought, what if I was still here?

If I was still there, my life would not be on the right track. I'd be a bitter man with no hope. For the longest time, I found myself just going to be in church and be with my friends, and now, I would not be swimming in the Word of Life. Instead, it'd be the same ole thing, catchy phrases, and zero spiritual growth. I'd be a part of it. Granted, sometimes I miss it. It was like a party there on occasion.

However, if I were still there, that'd be a crying shame. While it was fun going back, and boy the memories are good ones, I'm glad the Lord took me away and showed me His Light. He showed me it was more about the relationship with Him, than the relationship with others, including the elders.

I hope you don't go to church just for the atmosphere it provides. I hope you go to let the Holy Spirit teach you and mold you in His likeness. I hope you go to worship Jesus, who died on the cross for you. I hope you find yourself in a church that will grow you and inspire you to bring your friends. Most of all, I hope you decide to go!

See you in church this Sunday!

One month till the remodel

2007-10-17T19:43:00.000-05:00

I am excited and nervous about the upcoming remodel. However, it's a necessary event in order to stay current and fresh at Chick-fil-A. We need a face lift and we need to expand our kitchen. Business has been very good of late, and it's continuing.

This reminds me a lot of my spiritual journey. I still remember all the construction leading up to the day we opened. That can be likened to all the stuff going on around me leading up to my accepting Jesus into my heart. Lots of people doing different tasks, yet I only talked with one person, mainly, and they both gave me the keys. While the plumbers, carpenters, or electricians had their spot building the store and getting it ready to serve guests, only the general contractor made it all come together, and he gave me the keys. This happens in many churches. Lots of people putting in their service, yet usually one person (either the pastor or a friend, etc.) is a one you'll feel comfortable talking to about Jesus; then they'll hand you the keys to accepting Him as Savior.

The remodel is like my current journey. While everything is working fine, and I'm still serving guests and increasing in the amount I'm serving, we need to do a little remodeling. If I'm honest about it, I notice some tiles that are broken, or some paint that's a bit chipped, or that we're not serving as many as we could if the store was laid out a little differently. So we stop, tear it apart, and rebuild. That happened this year for me spiritually. I felt like I was ripped a part, rebuilt, and now I feel like I'm serving even more people. It wasn't easy, nor was the process clean and neat (kind of like what our restaurant will look like in a few weeks), but the result is awesome. I feel as if I'm doubling the Talents with that God has entrusted me.

I hope you can see this happening in your life.

Jer 29:11
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.

I know more than you you think...

2007-10-14T19:26:00.000-05:00

That's my daughter with her horseback instructor, Lisa. The horse is Caesar. Notice that Lisa is making the necessary adjustments to the saddle to secure it to Caesar, and insure Candace's safety. Also, note the helmet on Candace's head; one wrong move, and Caesar will get annoyed with Candace, and possible throw her from his back. So, she needs head protection. Notice Candace's grip on the reins, firm with thumbs up, this is to control Caesar. Should she loosen those reins, Caesar will go where ever he wants. Candace rides every week, practicing over and over the correct posture on the horse, her grip, her control, and her turns. She even practices the different run styles of the horse such as cantors, trots, and gallops. She has to be sure she's posting properly (the way she uses her legs to push up and down in the stirrups while on the horse's back as it moves within it's different runs).

Without Candace on the horse, it would do whatever it wanted. You could call her Caesar's accountability partner. Candace's control of Caesar determines her safety and her instructor's safety. Candace determines where Caesar will go. Without her, there's no direction.

I bet you didn't know horses could be so dangerous. I've seen them first hand, ridden them many times, and seen them throw some of the best riders (Candace included).

I hope you had a wonderful weekend and were blessed by His Word.

See you in Church next Sunday.

Just looking for anonymous?

2007-10-11T16:55:00.000-05:00

Anonymous! Don't hide. I would love to talk with you more. Take off the Burka, anonymous.

Signed,

Charlie

Looking for the one sheep...

2007-10-09T15:47:00.001-05:00

Recently, I was made aware of how many folks, after the hurt they felt with regard to how their church treated them, are missing from church. These folks were shunned for asking legitimate questions, and for asking for gut-level honesty and accountability. Told to get out or leave, they did, and for some, tragedy may have occurred. Labeled as dividers or, even worse(?), "jackasses," they wander within the world, looking for the world to satisfy the hunger only God can fill. Don't be bitter at how you were treated or how they perceive you now in an effort to build up the platform of broken lives they stand upon. It will destroy you, and the devil will win. Please, get back in the game!

This post is meant to encourage. I don't even like that I wrote the "jackass" word on my post because it hurts so many so bad. However, let me encourage you today, because so many of you need it.

Matthew 18:11-14 "See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost."

Let me tell you a story about my King, Jesus. Many of my brothers and sisters-in-Christ know the story of Palm Sunday, Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Ever since the infamous post on another blog many months ago, I really didn't take it the way many others did, as an insult (as it was generally intended to be). Honestly, it was as if the Lord was shouting at me to listen and THINK about what was being said. So I really didn't see a need to comment. However, many still feel hurt, and I need to ask you, WHY? This is an honor!

First consider Balaam, who wouldn't listen, was steadfast in desire to go a certain way, yet an angel stood in his path to guide him another way (otherwise the angel would have killed Balaam). The donkey saw the angel and turned for safety. Balaam, fuming, chastised and beat his donkey for not carrying out his instructions. He said, "You have made a mockery of me! If there had been a sword in my hand, I would have killed you by now." (Sound familiar?) After all, Balaam was the donkey's master or owner and "knew" what was best. Yet, it took the donkey SPEAKING to Balaam to show him his way was off, and then he saw the angel.

Second, consider how horses or "stallions" were used in the Bible. They carried war on their backs. They carry or precede destruction in Revelation. Revelation 6:5 "and BEHOLD! The pale horse, and rider who sat upon him was Death, and hell followed with him." Also, horses were used by earthly kings and ones that were usually not within the Lord's kingdom, i.e. Pharaoh. Even King Solomon rode in on a lowly donkey.

I pondered this jackass thing for so long, and I felt, after reading so many hurting e-mails and posts, that it was about time to help you heal. Again, consider the comment an honor!

Here's what my research revealed to me:

The reason Christ chose a donkey was to leave absolutely no doubt that He was Israel's Messiah. And yes, riding an unbroken colt like that was a miracle in and of itself. But there was even more to it. Zechariah 9:9 says: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."
Riding into Jerusalem on this unbroken donkey colt was the most obvious sign He could have given them, and it's one of the reasons why when they refused to acknowledge Him, He pronounced judgment upon the city. (Luke 19:41-44)

Matthew 21:1-3: As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away."
The Lord needs them — this is what a king might say when conscripting supplies from the people. We are taking this because we need it. In this case, the Lord needed the donkey. What did he need the donkey for? It was just for show — a very special show — a symbolism that would tell the people that Jesus was the Messiah, the king.

He was a King of Peace!

Check out verses 4-5: This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: "Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’" Jesus was doing this to fulfill a prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. Zion’s king was predicted to come on a donkey. At first glance, this does not seem like a very kingly way to come into the city. In the Roman world, kings generally rode horses, sitting up high, leading their armies. The military parade showed how powerful a king they were.

This was not the type of king that Jesus was, and it was not the type of king that Zechariah had predicted. Zechariah did not predict a military hero coming back from battle. He was predicting a king of peace, a king who did not need to show off his army. The context of Zechariah makes that clear. The very next verse in Zechariah says: "I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the war-horses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the Euphrates to the ends of the earth."

This king will have peace. Weapons of war will not be needed. War horses will not be needed. The king rides on a donkey as a symbol of peace. The problem is that many people in Jesus' day didn’t keep this part of the prophecy in mind. They knew from Zechariah that the Messiah would come into town on a donkey, but they also expected the Messiah to wage war, to bring peace through military victory.

Jesus had another plan in mind, and that is part of the story. Let’s pick it up again in Matthew 21:6-7: The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them. Jesus sat on the cloaks on top of one of the donkeys. And verse 8: A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.

This parade must have gone at a rather slow pace. The donkey wasn’t galloping. It was a leisurely procession that gave people enough time to cut tree branches and line the road with branches and cloaks. This was a sign of great honor in that society. People don’t throw their clothes into the street just for fun. It meant a great deal. It showed great honor and deference. The people knew that the Messiah would come into town on a donkey, and Jesus was practically blowing a trumpet and saying, I am the Messiah.

This event is commonly called the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. But there is little indication of triumph here. There are no spoils of war, no military parade. Jesus is using rather ordinary things — little things. He uses a donkey and a colt. He uses the clothes that are taken off people’s backs, on the spur of the moment. Jesus uses little things. Verse 9: The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosanna in the highest!" The people were singing Psalm 118, a messianic psalm, and they sang it for Jesus. Hosanna means "save us." It was a prayer that said, "We need to be saved." And it was praise because it said, "You are capable of saving us." They called Jesus the Son of David —the Messiah. They said he was coming in the name of the Lord. This is the King God had sent them. "Save us now, O King of Israel! We welcome you. We honor you with our palm branches. We pave the streets for you with the clothes off our backs. We praise you and look to you for the salvation we need." It must have been an air of tremendous excitement. People had this sense that the most exciting moment in their life was just around the corner.

Ah, but not everyone liked the party. The Pharisees (church leaders of the time period)complained.

What a letdown that must have been for those who looked for a conquering hero. Looking for the majesty of kingship, and here comes Jesus riding on a donkey.

Woo to the stallions of the world. Consider this good news for YOU! The New Kingdom, is on its way! And a great number of "asses" like you and me will be needed to carry the King upon our back! What an honor!

Now let it go, turn away from Balaam's Angel that carried a sword. Be the donkey that brings Jesus into a dying world.

Sorry for such a long post (I even shortened a lot of it). However, I felt like now was the time to share it. I sure hope this blesses you. For all my friends at other churches and past churches and new churches, I hope this has blessed you. That's it's only desired result.

See YOU in Church this Sunday!

Well, I played and the band Rocked!

2007-10-07T19:16:00.001-05:00

I posted the video above to show you a little about how I got into percussion (drums). The band, Stryper, a Christain rock group likened to false prophets for taking their music to clubs and concerts where secular bands performed, was instrumental into getting me into playing drums. Number one, I really liked that they were "different." I loved that they would toss Bibles into the crowd at every concert. I also liked their rebel approach to common Christianity...this was very much the way Christ Himself ministered.

Christ walked with the people, the prostitutes, the tax collectors, the thieves, the worst of people, or at least, what the religious establishment called the worst. As followers of Christ, we know we're ALL sinners and fall short; pastors, priests, deacons, congregationalists, prosititutes, murderers, liars, thieves, we're all the same. We've ALL sinned. We ALL need Jesus to save us from that sin.

Robert Sweet, drummer for Stryper, was the motivation for me at 13 years old. Considered by manny of his peers in the secular music industry to be among the best drummers in the world, Sweet inspired me to play, and to play to the Lord.

Today, I played for a Large crowd (standing room only in one service, although we always find a way to add in the seats no matter how crammed it gets, people are still coming), and I played for the Lord. We really rocked the worship center today. It was an awesome day that saw many new visitors and over 50 people make decisions. It's always awesome being a part of a growing church and playing for the Lord. I believe music will lead the charge of the Saints in the Lord's return. Perhaps, I will be a part of the drum-line, playing snare, tom toms, or bass. Who knows, but it sure was nice being a part of the charge today. After 8 long years off, I could tell the Holy Spirit was in my hands and feet. That's the only way I could have played well enough to keep the band together. His hands were on mine. What an honor!

Special thanks to the guys I played with today. Jason, for just adding me to the schedule so I couldn't back out or make excuses for not playing anymore. Tim (who was sick as a dog) and Cody, for using head signals, winks, etc. to make me know I was playing "with" the group. Cookie for always making me feel a part of the family, and to Casey for endless amounts of verbal reinforcement that it was sounding really good. I can't wait to play again!

Should you wish to play the video, you'll see the monikers that befeel Stryper were way off. The song is a testament to God's love for you and I. Today, I felt the moniker that befell me this year, lifted. Thank God for that.

If I didn't see you this week, I'm sorry I missed you, or I'm sorry you didn't come. However, unless Jesus returns before, I'll SEE YOU ON SUNDAY!

Getting prepared

2007-10-05T19:38:00.000-05:00

We're 6 weeks out from our complete interior demolition of my restaurant. We'll be closed from November 19th to December 19th or 20th. I am excited, and I'm scared. It's the unknown. I could put the verse about not being anxious about anything, but that's used a lot. So I decided to put this one up today, "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth." (Proverbs 27:1). So no boasting here, just getting ready. It's going to be incredible how nice the restaurant looks at the end of December...It'll be my Christmas gift to our guests and my employees.

Remember, I'm playing in the praise band this weekend. See you in church THIS Sunday!

No Baptism Pool at Church?

2007-10-04T16:49:00.001-05:00

How about a member's swimming pool? It worked great at my home, as we baptized several believers. Awesome fellowship, great pictures, and a wonderful celebration. Plus, can you imagine the buzz it created in the neighborhood, especially with my immediate neighbors. That's a great way to get them asking about your faith. Just incredible! It was really neat. Here are some pictures

See Ya in Church this Sunday!

Oh Boy, Now we're about to Rock!

2007-10-03T20:52:00.000-05:00

You may have read my previous post about me doing a Chapel for a school here in Orlando where I taught the concepts from the Parable of the Talents. I have studied this parable like crazy. You can find it in Matthew 25:14-30. Let me paraphrase...God gives you Talents, He's a tough guy to work for (expects a lot), wants you to be accountable to the tune of DOUBLING those talents (also a unit of measure equaling about $60,000 back then...BIG MONEY), Talents can be used today to describe just that...TALENTS, the WICKED & LAZY servant does nothing with His talent (it's really God's anyway); and His Talent is given to the servant who now has 10, making it 11, and thus the concept of "the rich get richer" is born. The wicked servant is "FIRED" (sent to Hell) and we all move onto the next story.

Well, Here I am, Lord. After 8 long years, I will return to the stool that sits behind and straddles a snare DRUM. I practiced with the band last night, broke meter once (or twice, but I think our worship leader was being nice), and I'm a little rusty on my 5-stroke rolls, BUT I loosened up after 15 minutes and was jamming right along with the other talented musicians up there. So, this Sunday, you can catch my Talent Reunion Tour at Eastpoint Fellowship as we move to the groves of some nice, fast paced, contemporary worship music.

No, there won't be any Whitesnake, Genesis, R.E.M, or Bon Jovi; but I know you'll enjoy the groove we put you in. This week will be awesome! WHEEEEEWWWWW! LOL!!! I can't wait!

Granted, I'm a bit nervous, but the Lord is a tough guy to work for and I'll give it my best. He deserves it!

Talented by God; See you in Church THIS Sunday!

Cruise Dinner Night 2

2007-10-01T07:34:00.000-05:00

The following pictures come from our second night on the cruise. They are from the Animater's Palace, a dining room where are the pictures come to life from they're begining as sketches to full blown color. The room was incredible and the food awesome, eating with ole friends...Priceless.

Liz and me

Asst. Server, Raj and Kayla

Valerie and Michael

Keisha and Terry

Kim and Andy

Michelle and Michael

Todd talking about his day with Kathy at their large table.

Again, more great photos to come.

See you in church this Sunday!

True Friends Keep Me Accountable

2007-09-30T19:11:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to throw that thought out there.

My friends ask me tough questions and insist that I operate above board. That's a crazy idea in this world, but it's one that has made our friendships even deeper. Granted it'd be nice to have it, but they're not filled with complete blind trust; actions have to follow the words. I have to live up to high expectations, especially since they all know of my relationship with Christ. So when I step out of bounds or commit a foul in life (sin or hurt their feelings), my friends know that I always listen and hopefully act on it. Why? Because my accountability partners hold me accountable. It strengthens our relationship. We're able to safely discuss sin our lives, or in my life. There's no phoneyness, it's all real. These are the best of friends!

Hey, I tried uploading some more pictures from the cruise but blogger is having a hard time tonight with them, so I will try again tomorrow. Here's one of Candace and Kayla.

Pray for Regina Mears and her mom tonight. Her mom suffered a catastrophic brain aneurysm yesterday, had major surgery today, and appears to have severe brain damage. Regina was blessed to have her mom help out after her last baby was born, and now, I'm sure, just wants to be able to talk to mom again. With Christ, we have hope. We're praying for you Regina!

See you in Church this Sunday!

I'm a Christ Follower

2007-09-27T16:46:00.001-05:00

Just a minute long video parody. I was thinking about getting my sport coat filled with bumper stickers, too. I actually could do this video with some churches that like to act like macs, but really still are pc's. Like constantly quoting statistics to prop themselves up...that's so PC!

Did You Get A Letter From Hell?

2007-09-26T20:18:00.001-05:00

I found this last night with some other videos. Obviously, I wanted to get out the video I posted yesterday. I have a few others for the coming week that I hope MOVES you. This one shook me. I immediately thought of those who would send me this letter. Pray for me as I make an attempt to introduce them to the Lord. I'll be praying for you, as well. The statement at the end labeled "P.S." really hit me hard..."P.S. Wish you were here!" Ouch! Lets limit these letters from hell!

See you in church Sunday!

Everything

2007-09-25T21:25:00.001-05:00

This video is tremendous! It's about 6 minutes of soft singing over a wordless skit that symbolizes God's love for us. He loves us when we accept Him. He loves us when we reject Him for the pleasures of the world such as relationships, money, drugs and alcohol, and other peer pressures that we encounter. He's right there waiting for us to come out of our sin; fighting for us, He is right there with us. This video brought tears to my eyes. It is one of the most powerful representations of God's never-ending love and desire to be in our lives. Give Him a chance! This video may have changed my entire week...if not my life.

See you in Church This Sunday!

Family Vacation with Friends

2007-09-24T15:09:00.000-05:00

This year has seen many friends fall by the way side. I've had those that asked for my side, and those that gave their version of my side. Granted, those who came to m personally, as the Lord encourages us to do, have remained friends, and even better, they have kept me accountable and we've grown so much together. Many of those who read this blog find yourselves on both sides of this issue. For those who chose to examine my account and hold me accountable...Thanks so much! For those who believe I did more than what is accurate or failed to even ask for my side, we can still work it out. My God is Great, and He can heal ANY relationship...I really believe that. We can STILL be friends!

I wanted to put that out there before I show off or pat myself or those around me on the back. This is DAY 1 from being away from the Disney Wonder. Quite frankly, I'm going through severe withdrawal right now. I miss all those good times we had on the cruise. What a blessing it was to be around so many friends that have moved onto other church families. Once united in Life groups, we've separated to have a greater impact on Orlando, our group got together to celebrate LIFE. My withdrawal is personal. I miss everybody, but I am excited about how people have been used since we were scattered. The stories really touched my heart.

My withdrawal is also, physical. It's hard coming back and not having someone at your beckon call. I really miss eating whenever we felt like it (and I will tell you I'm only at 201lbs.) Nothing like Pizza at midnight. Then you come back to reality, and you can't have any pizza at midnight. Then you can't have 2 servings of entrees served by an Italian from Portugal. Then you can't have Ice Cream whenever you want.

Here are some pictures

Todd dancing at ladies, er, 80's night Dom, Terry & Toby (half in pict. on right) chatting about hoop earrings on men at Pirate NightKeisha, Halle, and Christine helping out with some seriously dangerous dance moves on Pirate Night.

Todd doing his Robert Palmer impersonation with "Addicted to Love" (Dancers Liz & Kim)

Karaoke night with "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" performed by (from left) Liz, Kim, Michelle, Tracy, and Keisha.

Josh and Dad, Rex!

I'll post more over the next few days. We're planning another outing like this in the future. Wanna Come? I'll let you know specifics as this group works them out.

See You in Church This Sunday!

We're Back!

2007-09-23T09:44:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure I'm going to remember how to cook or make my bed. We were pampered like crazy by Disney, and I have yet to step on a scale out of total fear. I just may wait 10 days after an intense workout schedule to step on that scale. Even Michael Barton came away with a pot belly.

Speaking of Michael, I am going to have to tread lightly around him as he has all the video footage to RUIN lives. I'm kidding, but before it shows up on YOU TUBE, you may see scenes of the cruise that include a wild Karaoke night, and some incredible dance moves by many of us including a wild deck party with Jack Sparrow and a 70's night highlighted by the smooth dance moves of one Alan Hardin (look out John Travolta!).

This cruise was such a blessing. For those who missed it...we're planning an even bigger group vacation in years to come, so you'll get your chance. For those who were on it...I had an incredible time with ALL of you. I'll post pictures as I get the opportunity. Plus, I'm sure, Michael will be streaming video worthy of a king's ransom.

Short Blog for now...Like Camp, you don't get many opportunities to sleep on a cruise like the one I was on.

See you in Church THIS Sunday (Yea)!

Ahhh! That Felt Great

2007-09-19T16:44:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that I'm preparing to throw my shoulder out again. Here comes some of that patting on the back I've seen on other blogs. Perhaps, they're rubbing off on me.

So, I have this cruise tomorrow. You saw that, already. Leading up to this cruise, I have to admit, I WAS pretty fat. I enjoyed my fried chicken sandwiches, fried chicken biscuits, fried chicken strips, my coca-cola, and out side Chick-fil-A, my Arizona Sweet Tea with lemon. Man, I could put away a whole gallon of Arizona Tea in a day. I used to go nuts at the Publix manager for not stocking enough of the Arizona Tea. And when it was in stock, I'd clean them out; four days later I'd go back, they'd be out, and I'd be ripping him a new one again (actually, we're pretty good friends that go back all the way to elementary school...so no e-mails on my witness).

Oh, before I forget, Chick-fil-A will not make you fat. It's when you over portion. For example, a lunch I might have had in April would look like this:
Chick-fil-A Sandwich
3 Strips
Large Fries (plus some more)
32 oz. Coca-Cola (and that doesn't count the countless times I refill during the day)
Perhaps a 20 oz. Hand Spun Chocalate Shake
...And that's almost everyday for lunch. Plus I would usually not eat anything for breakfast, and put away several servings of whatever for dinner. Granted, somebody needs to talk to the government about serving sizes. They are a joke. Like the video I posted (and it's true...I looked), nobody eats 2 fig newtons, and I have the fat free kind. It's the calories that will get you.

Some of you might be wondering if it was the church service where we got to see a salad made for the majority of the service that helped change me, and the answer is "NO!" Granted, I am being fed spiritually in my church, but it definitely wasn't the "Salad Service." Actually, it was my self esteem. "What are other people going to see when they see all of me hanging over my bathing suit?" I thought. Plus, Chick-fil-A Leadership has been on a real "Fit to Lead" push for all of its franchisees.

So, here's what I did:
1. I haven't had ANY soda since May 2007. I found out that even diet soda is bad for you with regard to the sugar make-up of the syrup. Plus, the carbonation expands your stomach, making you consume more food when you eat. Let me also say...I AM NOT A DIETITION, so don't go nuts at me for what I have heard and read.
2. I haven't had ANY Arizona Tea since May 2007. This was perhaps the hardest thing to do in my pursuit to drop some pounds. Not only is it filled with calories and sugar (good for putting on weight), but it is heavy in caffine. My head hurt like I was having anuisms. It was bad for a couple of weeks. I replaced soda and tea with fruit juices and lots of H20. I drink mad amounts of water a day (and pee like it!).
3. I have a fruit cup for breakfast, I have a Chargrilled Sandwich with regular BBQ sauce for lunch (water with both), and eat a regular meal for dinner.
4. EXERCISE, EXERCISE, EXERCISE! I do an eliptical machine set at a 7 tension for 30 to 45 minutes a day. I put on my iTunes, and take out my day's frustrations on "The Machine." I also do 5o side to side crunches, and 3 sets of 2 minute supermans (I hate the 3rd set!).

RESULT...I'm patting myself on the back here...I've lost 42lbs. in 3 months and lost 2 pant sizes. The clothing will be another topic, but buying new pants and shirts has gotten expensive; I am proud to say I'm a LARGE now.

I leave for my cruise tomorrow weighing a pretty svelt 198 lbs.

Good Luck with your weight loss, and Customs willing, See you in Church this Sunday!

My Boss Asked For Your Help!

2007-09-18T20:28:00.000-05:00

That's right! Truett Cathy asked me to spread the word. He's hoping the Chick-fil-A Cows are voted America's favorite advertising icon. Please go here http://advertising.yahoo.com/advertisingweek_07/icon_poll.html
and vote for the cows! Truett and I will love you for it.

See Ya in Church this Sunday (Customs willing)!

Cruisin'

2007-09-18T06:10:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to let all of my Blogaholics know I will be on a cruise from Thursday through Sunday morning (Depending on customs, we'll see if I make the 10:30am service). I didn't want you be wondering what happened to the Grand Blog Master. O.K., my head hurts, I've pumped it up too much.

Should I run into Capt. Stubee, and I'm able to blog from our Disney Cruise, I will update you on our travels and any thoughts I might have. You know, the open water is an incredible place to think.

Hey, maybe next time, you too, can be a part of the Love Boat. We're sailing with a bunch of 'ole friends from churches all around Orlando. It's going to be a blast! Plus, no huricanes! The only unfortuneate regret for me is missing the UCF/Memphis football game. GO Knights!

I'll see you in church this Sunday (hopefully)!

I Almost Broke My Shoulder

2007-09-17T19:50:00.000-05:00

I kid you not! I was in my office, reading some blogs, and I tried to do what they do all the time on their respective blogs. So I stood up, at my desk, threw my right arm up and out, turned it 90 degrees, arced my elbow and proceeded to throw my shoulder right out of its socket! YEOOOOOOW! How do they do it?! They're so good at patting themselves on the back.

Jeeze, some people make it sound so easy!

See you in Church this Sunday!

I Was Thinking...

2007-09-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

What if UCF had beaten Texas? What if I had bought more houses for investment? What if I had finished my doctorate? What if Liz and I had stopped at 2 kids? What if Jesus had come off the cross? What if?

Then I realized it's all fantasy and doesn't matter. UCF would be ranked. I would be loaded. I would be Dr. Charles Fish. I would be without Brady. I would be on my way to hell.

What if doesn't change anything, though. What if is the ultimate torture of hell. Can you imaginge the thought of those souls suffering in eternity asking "WHAT IF I HAD ACCEPTED JESUS AS MY SAVIOR?!" I don't want that torture. So I'm going to do my best to STOP asking "What if?" I think it stops us from asking the right question, "What's Next?"

What's next for UCF? What's next for my investment portfolio? What's next for my education? What's next for my family? What's next for my relationship and servantude to Jesus?

I was thinking...When will I see you in Church? This Sunday?!

Ho Hummmmm!

2007-09-14T16:40:00.000-05:00

I am getting over an incredible flu bug here. Knocked me out for about 3 days. I'm feeling better today, and the computer doesn't hurt my eyes, well, physically hurt my eyes.

Lots going on here. Let me tell you what's been going on in my life. Today, I had the wonderful opportunity to do a chapel service for a school here in Orlando. The kids were great, listened very well, and engaged in the discussion on the Parable of the Talents found in Matthew. Even one recognized that if the Lord gives you a lot, and you do a lot with what He gives you, He'll give you more from the person who doesn't do anything with their talent. If you do nothing with your talent, He'll take it away. In this Parable, Christ shows us that the "rich" do get "richer" and He blesses it. You know what He does to the wicked servant? A place with gnashing teeth is mentioned to give you a hint. So if your talent is singing....SING! If your talent is encouragement...ENCOURAGE! If your talent is missions...SUPPORT OR BECOME A MISSIONARY! If your talent is ________.... DO IT!

These kids were brilliant and get it! To the teachers in that school and most importantly, the parents...NICE JOB! Continue to teach them wise principles and Love them...they are worthy of praise today.

On another note...I'll be at the big game in Orlando tomorrow as UCF hosts Texas. I'm praying for an Appalachian State type miracle for my Knights tomorrow (and I have an unspoken reason just to put a silly smirk on my face, but most who know me will be able to put that one together). Quite frankly, I'm sure the Lord doesn't care who wins, so long as it brings Him glory. Go Knights!

See you in Church this Sunday!

I Really Remember!

2007-09-12T08:32:00.000-05:00

Today's, my son, Jordan's birthday. He is the big 10 years old. I am very proud of how he's grown up. Troubled by the world around him, he still knows and trusts that God's in control. That will take him far in life as I have found it to be true in my life.

Reeling, after the attacks of September 11th, we tried to pick up the pieces of our lives and move forward right away. September 12th was Jordan's birthday, and we were going to celebrate no matter what. Then I got a call from my sister-in-law, Marci, sometime in the afternoon after Brandy and Della Brock had called her. The news dropped me. Craig Stamper, my music minister and my friend was tragically killed in a car accident.

You see, Craig was another tragedy of 9-11. He even led a prayer service the evening of 9-11. Originally, he and his wife, Susan, were to fly to North Carolina for Susan's dad's surgery, but because of 9-11, all planes were grounded for a few days. They decided to drive. If you remember that day after 9-11 in the southeast, we had a Tropical Storm move through, and the roads were slick in Georgia and he had an accident that claimed his life. (I still hate passing that place on the interstate).

Craig and Susan touched my life more than most will ever know. I still remember, when my business had tanked well before 9-11, that Craig and Susan would come have breakfast with me on Saturday mornings. They were the only ones in my dining room so many times. I could tell it disappointed him as much as it did me. I just remember him telling me one Saturday morning that "God's in controll; He's going to take care of you...I promise." Craig went on to Heaven way before his time, but God's in control...so it was his time. We still miss him six years later, but six years later, God is still in control!

Craig knew the only path to heaven was knowing Jesus as his Savior. He'd share his faith on stage and in person. His smile made you believe, because it showed he knew. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, and you hit that rain slick road one day...well, I'm sorry. For Craig, we celebrate his life and his eternal place in Heaven. I hope we can do the same for YOU. If you haven't, give your life to Jesus. You never know when God will decide to take you.

See you in church this Sunday!

9/11/01...I Remember!

2007-09-11T09:18:00.001-05:00

I was born in Bronx, New York, and to this day, still have many relatives living in New York. I even have pictures of me standing on top of the WTC and eating in the Windows to the World Restaurant. I remember how crazy it felt to place the crown of your head against the window and look straight down. That took some faith at first, but then, when you overcame the intense anxiety, the feeling was awesome. You would actually step down into a booth set up for this incredible view. I remember even talking with my dad about how it seemed you could jump from this building to the top of one of the surrounding building such as the Deutch Bank building. After the attacks, I'm sure the multitudes of people who worked in those top floors had convinced themselves, over years of working in the buildings, that it, too, was possible. Instead, gravity pulled them to their deaths before they could reach the tops of the surrounding buildings. Just one last chance to breath fresh air, not choked with fire and smoke.

I want to encourage all of you to never forget what evil looks like. For the past few years, we've been censored from the videos of the planes hitting the World Trade Center. In my opinion, that makes our war harder to fight. We forget what we were fighting for with no historical accounts. I watched the news even this morning, and not one video of the attacks. That's the politically correct thing to do, but politics NEVER has won any wars.

I salute all those who are fighting for and protecting my freedom. To all the service men and woman out there...BRING IT! You guys are HEROES!

Thanks for making my world a better place to live in...See you in Church this Sunday!

NFL Night

2007-09-06T15:32:00.001-05:00

That's right, It's time for some Football. Ahhhhhhhhhh! I thought I'd post with some Monday Night Football theme song music to get you in the mood. I've got my fantasy football team together, and I am pumped. I am a 2-time Fantasy Bowl Champion for the 16 member Orlando Fantasy Football League, and last year's runner-up. Unforetunatley, when you have a team as good as mine, everybody picks your players from last year like vultures, makeing this year a tough rebuilding project. I'm not sure I'll make it to the Fantasy Bowl again this year, but I'm sure I'll contend.

I don't know about you, but after Friday night high school football and Saturday college football, I was ready for the NFL to start on Sunday. Instead, I walked around my house like a zombie, muttering to myself that the NFL should be on T.V. It's like someone turned off my football I.V. drip.

"Charlie, how does this encourage me?" You ask. I have no clue, but when I'm this pumped and this excited, the next posts might be some of the most encouraging, enlightening, uplifting, wisdom filled posts. Then again, it might still be filled with the stuff I've posted in the past...who knows. WHEW! Are you redy for some football?

See you in church this Sunday!

Boy, Am I Blessed!

2007-09-05T17:05:00.000-05:00

I opened up some old e-mails from this past year, and my eyes started to bleed. It was just an incredible journey for so many, including myself. Then a friend, just at the right time (Ya gotta love the Holy Spirit's timing!) gave me a call just to encourage me.

He said to consider these words from Jesus, "Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me. Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:11-12

That really made my day (and year). See you in church this Sunday

Priceless

2007-09-04T15:28:00.001-05:00

Appalatian State...34 points and the win

UCF...25 points and the win

FSU...18 points, and Bobby Bowden meltdown, and THE LOSS...Priceless! Somethings money can't buy, for everything else, there's Mastercard.

Was that not encouraging, FSU fans? Try this one on for size. The real FSU coach left a few years back and is in Athens, Georgia...and they won. That should lift your spirits.

See you in church this Sunday (Even if you are praying to Touchdown Jesus).

Labor Day!

2007-09-03T20:19:00.000-05:00

I labored like crazy this labor day.

Made Breakfast for family....Check!
Mowed yard...Check!
Cleaned Pool...Check!
Cleaned garage...Check!
Vacuumed house...Check!
Watched Brady for a time....Check!
Hung artwork for parents...Check!

You know what...I Labored today.

Hey, how about those Knights?! Considering the high they're still on, you'd think we were on our way to New Orleans, the site of this year's BCS Championship game. Let's not get ahead of ourselves. The Knights are off for a few days before they get ready for Texas on September 15th. We'll enjoy the win for a whole two weeks, and then it's go time!

I did want to inspire you today. I just finished a book called "The Truth War" by John MacArthur, and it was an interesting journey into the days and months I've been living this past year. Now, I'm reading John Maxwell's "Today Matters." It's wonderful for teaching you to set up things that really make up your core. For example,today matters when having life with your family, today matters when fostering relationships, today matters when taking care of my health or attitude. It goes on and you'll have to get the book.

Let me quote John Maxwell, "Many people get into trouble when their values and their feelings collide. When you're feeling good and everything's going your way, it's not difficult to consistently live out your values. HOWEVER, when your values determine you should take an action that will hurt you or cost you something, it can be harder to follow through.

"If one of your values is integrity and you found a bank bag of money on the street you suspected was stolen, you probably wouldn't have too difficult a time turning the money in to the police. But what if you saw your boss stealing from the company you work for and you knew that calling attention to it wold get you fired? That choice would be more difficult, especially if you knew that losing your job might cost you your house or ruin you financially.

"Successful people do what's right no matter how they feel about it. They don't expect to be able to feel their way into acting. They act first and then hope that their feelings follow suit. Usually that doesn't involve anything dramatic. The tough decisions are the everyday ones. Ken Blanchard and Norman Vincent Pearl wrote in The Power of Ethical Management, 'Nice guys may appear to finish last, but usually they are running in a different race.' Living by your values is running in a different race."

This really hit me as reaffirming considering the circumstances I have been faced with this year. Even recently on T.V., I noticed that two firemen with the city of Orlando cheated on their District Fire Chief's exam. What should have happened was a suspension and rank reduced, if not complete termination. What did they get? "30 days to think about their actions" to which nobody's sure that even is a suspension, and they GET the promotion. THAT'S NUTS! We go nuts and cry foul. Yet, I see public "leaders" living this out everyday. I've seen it in church, at work, and in sports, and everybody wants to know why the next generation gets into more trouble. I know...We are not living out good values and setting the example. Instead, we look the other way and thus set a bad example for our children. That's not integrity, that's incompetence!

Don't look the other way! Point it out and be the better for it. Remember, John Maxwell calls those people "Successful."

I know it's been a long post, but I wanted to share a lot with you. I miss you all, but I'll see you in church this Sunday!

2007-09-01T20:52:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness! I thought we were going to blow that one. I was getting real jealous of Appalatian State's upset over Michigan, but now I don't care.

My son and I had a great time up at the Swamp with his Gators chomping the WKU Hilltopers, my UCF Knights beat NC State, and Michigan is sucker slapped by a 1-AA team...What a day.

Ya gotta love football! Look for the obnoxious Knight fan tomorrow, as I'll see you in church!

What I'll do for My Wife

2007-08-31T20:45:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen that commercial where the beer can falls out of the sky because some guy is doing something that's "not manly." The tag line is "Men should act like men." To set up this post, I was going to post one of the commercials but didn't want to be "selling" beer on my blog.

Well, If you have, you probably would have thought I was going to get hit with one of those cans tonight. I went to a high schol football game and missed most of it...to take pictures of the cheerleading squad.

I can see the commercial now, "Hey Charlie; Hey Michael. Whatcha taking pictures of? Oh, just the cheerleaders"...WHAM! ["Men should act like men!"]

However, my wife needed the pictures and this MAN stood up to the challenge. Besides, the home team was killing the visitors so they ddn't need my cheering support anyhow.

Now that's love! As a Sponsor of SEC football, I'll be representing Chick-fil-A in Gainesville at 12:30 tomorrow. I'll be up at the Swamp in the lower bowl with my son Jordan, a complete nut for Gator Football; then, I'll be burning rubber back to Orlando to watch the UCF vs NC State game on ESPN360 (we gotta win one of these guys, how 'bout this one).

I hope all is going well for all of you. I invited some folks to church, how bout you...See you in church this Sunday!

Is August Over Already!?

2007-08-30T20:14:00.000-05:00

Can you believe we are heading into Labor Day Weekend? It's unreal how time has flew by this past year.

We are entering the 4th Quarter of 2007 and I am pumped up. This is where the football team puts up four fingers and raises them to the sky. Why?! BECAUSE, WE PLAY ALL FOUR QUARTERS! Sorry, passion for finishing the game strong over took me there.

Finishing the game. We don't leave anything left on the field, especially in life. Go get 'em! Invite your neighbor, relative, business associate, or friend to church with you. What's the worst that can happen? They say NO. So you move on, and perhaps you'll be able to invite them again, and again, etc. This is how my mom came to know the Lord...she kept getting invited.

So, it's the 4th quarter of 2007, are you going to leave anything on the field? What player are you going to leave out of the most critical game ever...LIFE? Honestly, nobody ever thinks you're a fruit for inviting them to church. Plus, can you imagine if God shows us all of our missed chances when we get to heaven...boy, that would stink. It'd be like Monday o Film day for football players when the coach rips everything you did wrong like missed blocks, missed tackles, broken plays...all our foul ups. Film day stinks, especially if you lose (and lose someone you love after life expires is awful). Oh ya, see you in church this Sunday!

Be Careful...

2007-08-29T18:41:00.001-05:00

Be careful not to stand on the shoulders of others and claim all the credit for yourself. Once you're left hanging, you're sure to get dunked on.

Can you believe you can learn all that from a commercial from 1988?

See you in Church this Sunday!

Something to make you think...

2007-08-28T16:02:00.000-05:00

"If trees could scream, would we cut them down?

We might, if they screamed for no good reason."

--JACK HANDY

See you in Church Sunday

Perhaps...I'm QUACKING

2007-08-27T09:59:00.000-05:00

Quack QUACK! At what they said about me, and others Quack QUACK! Quack QUACK look at what they are Quacking about, Quack QUACK!

Ut oh, you're right; I just might be quacking.

I am grateful for the entire lot of you who, at the risk of feeling you might be disenfranchised, will tell me exactly what you think, believe, feel, hope, etc. Know this, I will ALWAYS give an ear to how you feel or perceive how I come off or feel. You challenge me to get better, and to not fall down. You challenge me to grow and not stoop to low levels. So, I have been challenged by many of you that red my blog, fire e-mails off to encourage me, call me, and, just flat out, desire for us to live a Christ-like life, I am extremely grateful. You lift me up and humble me at the same time. You are my brothers and sisters in Christ, so keep it coming!

Knowing that, I agree; after reading my last post I too am QUACKING. Quack QUACK, I fell for it, Quack QUACK. I heard the hunter's duck call, "QwwwwwWAAKa," and I took off for it. Quack QUACK I read a blog Quack QUACK. "Cha - Chink...BOOM, BOOM, BOOM!" Then my wing's hit and I fall from the sky. Thank God, you guys are faithful enough to show it to me.

A friend of mine was friend enough to show me why he felt I was Quacking. I listened, and I agree. In my apology for Quacking, he shared a Bible verse with me to help guide me away from Quacking on the blog (blogs can turn into mind-numbing QUACKING if we're not careful). He shared Ephesians 4:29:
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Granted, I did say I was going to try and be an encourager. My last post was not leadership...Eagle quality leadership. Especially when you take into account Paul's wisdom for the Church in Ephesus in the verse above.

Thanks for being true friends who are willing to hold me accountable to the Lord, to you, and to myself. I really appreciate that more than words will ever tell.

See you in Church this Labor Day weekend!

QUACK QUACK!

2007-08-25T11:02:00.000-05:00

How are you doing? Are you looking for Eagles? I'm seeing 'em in certain places.

I'm hearing ducks, too. I must confess, I've been trying to filter some blogs out of my life, but the filter failed. I'll have to upgrade to say the least. There's this one QUACK I can't get out of my head. He keeps quacking, "QUACK, QUACK, it's not my fault; QUACK, QUACK, they let me down; QUACK, QUACK I'm the greatest leader that every lived; QUACK QUACK!"

Then, I remembered an Eagle. He called me this week, and we spoke for about 10 or 15 minutes. I'm sure this was a difficult call for him to make. He felt like I had said some things that were offsides about him, so I e-mailed him asking him to call me. I love this guy, and I know his wings are not getting as much wind under them as he'd hope...but I believe he'll get there. He said he's felt so broken over past events, and I know he has. This guy is FULL of love and grace. Perhaps one day, he'll soar above the clouds again.

Here's something to live by, "It can be hard to gain the altitude an Eagle is used to if the Eagle is still flying with Ducks." -- Charlie Fish. Really, I just came up with that, but I better stop tooting my horn or it'll be QUACK QUACK for me.

Here's hoping my filter doesn't fail me again. Oh, before I forget...pray for me and some of my neighbors. We have an incredibly great report with each other. We do a lot together. I've been to events and parties with them, but, in my opinion, the fruit they bear is evident of a Christ-less life; yet, I still do stuff with them. I try to live my Savior's love by just having life with them. We share life together on Earth and I hope to, one day, in eternity. They've been invited to church so many times, but only recently, did they start coming. I believe more are about to follow. How exciting is that!?

See you in church this Sunday!

Friday Night Lights

2007-08-24T21:46:00.001-05:00

Ah football season! Sometimes I just want to let it all go, return to my youth, lace up the cleats, the lycra pants, shoulder pads, and do some hitting. I thoroughly enjoyed defense. It was the place you got to hit rather than be hit. You didn't have as extensive a playbook to memorize like offense, plus you got to do the hitting (I said that already, I know).

BLAM! He never saw you coming, and then, in the Friday night lights, you do a little dance over your latest victim.

Is that entirely necessary? No, but rubbing it in sure feels good.

I have to be honest, I really liked rubbing it in. That's not good off the field, though. Everytime I rub it in, I feel...childish...like my youth.

I remember talking with a collegemate during a business law class at UCF, a tailback, named Marquet Smith. I asked him why he never had any touchdown dances. He said it was because the 6 points on the board was the best dance he could ever do, plus he didn't want any payback. He did his job, scored and fliped the ball, occassionally, spiking it, but never showing up the other side.

Did you know Billy Graham always had protestors outside his revivals and crusades. They would show up in buses and say things that weren't true. He was even likened to being a false prophet. NEVER ONCE did he ever address them or acknowledge their presence. Why? Because it wasn't worth his time? No, probably because he'd look like a false prophet...probably because he wouldn't look Christ-like. He knew it wasn't true. He let his actions speak for themselves. He was Humble!

I pray the Lord keeps me humble not to lay a hit followed by a point and "BOO-YAH." I pray my hand comes out and pulls the other player to his feet. Laying blind-side hits in spiritual life isn't very Christ-like according to Matthew 18:15-17. I pray I'm sportsmanlike on the field of battle, spitual, physical or professional. I pray you are, too!

See you in Church THIS Sunday!

WEDNESDAY PANIC!!

2007-08-22T14:20:00.000-05:00

Holy Cow!

If you know my son, Brady, then you know he's a fire ball of excitement, and he's not yet 3 years of age. Like the tasmanian devil of the Bugs Bunny cartoons, he's a tornado. You know where he's at always because you hear him. He's not a quiet child.

Today, I switched off with my wife, Liz, so she could take Jordan to guitar practice after school and do it in a quiet...no Brady. So when I got home, he went to the couch, and I went to my office. After not hearing tornado noise in the family room, my mind immediately remembered hearing the tone of a security system from a door opening a few minutes earlier. I LEAPED OUT OF MY OFFICE CHAIR AND SPRINTED FOR THE BACK DOOR (many of you know I have a swimming pool)! By the time I got to the door, my mind had already rehearsed how bad a father I was, what my wife was going to do to me, how to dial 911, how did the child CPR class teach us to do toddler CPR, toddler water extraction....you name it in 3.2 seconds! In 3.2 seconds I was going to lose it! THE POOL!

As I opened the back door, I saw him, just lying there. Everything slowed to slow motion. Then he smiled at me. He was right next to the door, sitting on the couch. I even realized that I had unlocked the door, so there was no way he could have even got out, because the door was already locked. (My mind must have replayed the tone I heard when we originally walked into our home).

Needless to say, he's back to tearing my office a part right now, even as I type. Normally, it would frustrate the tar out of me, but he's here and alive, so I really don't care that he's pulling paper out of my fax machine, taking books off the shelves, or pushing the waste basket around the office.

When I think about how my heart dropped 20 minutes ago, I realize that's probably the way God feels when he sees us give into temptation and sin. They lead to death. I bet, the conviction you feel in your heart as a Christian after you sin, is the Lord leaping out of His throne running after you to save you from that sin. He's coming to do CPR, Christ's Pulmonary Resuscitation.

I really am a good father, though. I just will pay even more attention to listen and WATCH the Brady Tornado.

See you in church on Sunday!