The Colossae-- Man's Fallen Nature

 You may have heard me say it, "If you don't believe in the fallen nature of mankind, you aren't paying attention." Mankind is indeed fallen. Take the great ancient building the Colossae, or we call it, the Coliseum. 

Think abut this beautiful structure. It was built for the entertainment of the masses and was quite effective. Of course that entertainment was to watch man and beast fight to the death. Likely it was a gory spectacle that was, well to be honest, greatly enjoyed by the spectators.

It is easy to condemn such barbary. After all, we have come a long way since the days of the gladiators. Yes, we have aborted 60 million babies in the USA, so maybe we are a bit hasty. We find our entertainment in more civilized venues such as the pornography industry.

Sad to say, we are a fallen people who can find a means to enjoy our sinful natures. And the temptation comes to us all.

Of course Christians suffered in the Colossae also. Many died simply to entertain others. 

L^rd save us from our natural bent. Forgive us and change us by the power of Christ's blood.

As we look towards 2022 in just a couple more days, let us resolve to follow Christ more closely in every aspect of our lives.

Are those Cookies?

 When we were at the Wellness Week back in early October, one of our friends gave us a class on fancy cookie making. I have never seen such artistry in the kitchen. See what I mean

Have you ever seen such a sight? We ate them and they tasted good too. I am tempted to say that tasted as good as they look, but that would be nigh impossible.

It is amazing the beauty that G^d put in the world, and that He gave us an appreciation for things that are beautiful. It is amazing too that in our imago dei, we can also be creative, sometimes unusually so, as seen in our cookie-making friend.

She talked a bit about commercializing her art, but I am guessing she would have to charge about $20-30 per cookie to make a profit. So, don't be looking for these in your nearest Walmart.

But enjoy seeing them right here.

Thanks be to G^d for gifting some people so mightily!

A Christmas Wish

 Another year, another Christmas--let us not miss the meaning of it.

In our highly commercial society, it is so very easy to lose sight of the true Christmas. You get tired of reading diatribes like this one, but the point is important. As I have quoted Ben T. before, "Our biggest problem has already been solved!" That is the true present, and one well worth celebrating.

As I enjoy my 71st Christmas I realize that it is so easy for me, and you, to be caught up in "the here and now". The bills must be paid, the leaves raked, the cooking done. We are so very distracted. Yes, we are like the disciples, and perhaps more like the Scribes and Pharisees. We want the good times rolling NOW!

For those who know the Christ, we have a better alternative. We can set our minds on what is above. We can endeavor to focus on the immortal nature of mankind, including ourselves. We can choose to rejoice that our future is secure, and that G^d's greatest gift has been received.

So amidst the hustle and bustle, amidst the gifts and decorations, let us all take time to thank the L^rd our G^d for Jesus the Christ, the "reason for the season", the "Greatest Gift" and the Savior of the World.

Thank you L^rd!

Traveling to WI

 In late Oct, Brenda and I drove from Charleston, SC to Eau Claire, WI. We stopped along the way and visited with friends in Champaign and in La Crosse.

In Champaign we had dinner with the Dean of the Graduate School, Univ. of IL. Wojtek and I were friends in the late 1980's and we ran together every day.

Woj married a prof from Brazil in 2009 and here are there 4 kids. What a beautiful family!

And speaking of beautiful families, take a look at this.

This is the Buckner kids whose parents, Stephen and Alicia, used to go to Grace Church.

And, speaking of lovely, take a look at these views from Grandad's Bluff, La Crosse, WI.

And, speaking of lovely, this chest of drawers was handmade by Stephen Buckner. That's some talent.

And the drive, from North Carolina to upstate WI, was lined by beautiful leaves. Take a look.

God is good and his mercy towards us was/is amazing. Thanks be to Him!

Root Causes of Slavery

In Matthew 7, in the sermon on the mount, Jesus warns us against judging others. So as we heard of the sad sinful actions of slave owners in the USA, I was alerted to the idea that likewise we are likely making similar mistakes today, which we overlook. In Jer. 17 we learn that “The heart is deceitful above all things, who can know it?” This provoked me to look for the underlying sin.

What would you guess as the underlying sin of enslaving other humans?

I look to Scripture for an answer. I Tim 6:9-10 comes to mind. It tells us that,”…the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil.” Could this be the root cause? Certainly having an abundance of “free” labor would enhance the profits of most enterprises. We learned that slaves were valued the highest at 20 years of age and the value fell in either direction from there. Slaves with special skills drew higher prices and some cost as much as $35-40, 000 in today’s dollars.

In my personal experience I have come to see greed as a major human weakness. Everybody seems to want “ just a little more money”.  I am guilty and I share this temptation with many.

My goal is to learn from past mistakes and NOT repeat them. I know that greed is a root cause of the sin of slavery and I need to be constantly on guard so as not to fall into the same temptation.

May G^d have mercy on us all.

Black History in the Deep South

 Brenda and I got to see some interesting and some extremely sad things in Charleston. We visited the old “Slave Mart Museum” that explained a lot about the trading of USA-born slaves. First we were shocked to learn that the USA only accounted for 4.6% of the African slave trade. South American imported about 50% of all the African slaves brought across the Atlantic. The Caribbean and Central America imported about 43% of the slaves and the balance mostly went to Mexico.  Who knew?

For a few years after the US Civil War, the freed slaves were given a full slate of rights as free people, but that era was short-lived and oppression returned. There were many African led and populated churches during that period and many Africans were elected to political office. Some attained considerable wealth. But the backlash against Reconstruction resulted in a return to great oppression against Africans. It must have been especially hard to experience this severe repression after having tasted real freedom just before.

In the midst of suffering so many stepped out to lead so well. For example, Septima Clark and many other people of color did heroic service for their country. On a boat tour of Fort Sumter we learned of the valor of the 54^th Massachusetts, the black regiment who fought bravely on Morris Island near Fort Sumpter.

So even in this great sadness there were many people who acted heroically and sacrificially. Let us not forget those people.

 

A Little bit of Black History

Brenda and I just spent 4 days studying Black history. I started by reading two books: Voices of Black South Carolina by Damon Fordham, and Black Charlestonians, a Social History 1822-1885 by Bernard Powers. These were very enlightening given that our education did not include any Black history.

From all we learned, it is clear that slavery, as practiced in Charleston and in South Carolina, and most of the US south was a heinous evil. Perhaps the saddest issue was the separation of family members in slave trades. The church’s disregard for these evils was likewise extremely disappointing.

One thing particularly caught us off-guard. We were shocked to read that freed blacks also sometimes owned slaves. Let that sink in a minute. That really surprised me and I am not sure what to make of this.

There were some more surprises, but I’ll save those for another post.

Beauty from Tiny Pieces of Glass

 

It is hard to believe, but this bluebird is made up of thousands and thousands of tiny pieces of glass.

Here is how he started out:

These are colored glass rods. They are very small and drawn from larger pieces of glass. Not all the art is made from glass, some is made of colored rock. Here are a few more mosaics.

But of the greatest work of art are the people who make these beauties. This is a family business in Florence, IT and these folks are siblings.

What a tremendous G^d who can create such artists!

A truly MOVING testimony

 Some of our friends are still working to help Christian Afghanis escape from Afghanistan. While we were in Roma, we had the distinct pleasure of meeting two outstanding brothers in Christ who had fled Afghanistan several years before. Both of these men had great testimonies, but the guy on the left had one of the most fascinating testimonies we have ever heard.

I can't recall all he said, and I wish I had written it down. Part of his escape from Afghanistan involved clinging to the underside of a truck for about two hours! He noted that when he finished that ride, passersby looked at him probably wondering how he had gotten so dirty and disheveled. I guess riding under a truck on dirt roads will do that for you.

After some time in Norway they wound up in Roma, where The Bridges ministry of Agape Italia took them in and led them both to Christ. Our hero had never finished high school, so Agape got him enrolled in Roma. This year is his senior year and his classmates elected him Class President!  Go figure.

Again, G^d blessed us to hear these stories and meet these two fine young men. They fixed us some authentic Afghani food. It was delicious--but not as delicious as our fellowship with these two brothers in Christ.

A GREAT Week at the Beach

Brenda and I are, as I write this, driving back from Laguna Beach Christian Retreat. We have just finished our third “Wellness Week” with a group of 11 Christian singles from MI, IN, TN, AL, and NC. I spoke there 5 times on Wellness, using principles from the Bible and from the book I authored with Walt Larimore.

This was the best time ever. The October weather was near idea. Every sunset was clear and beautiful. The waves were flatter than usual in the spring and summer. For whatever reason—most likely due the prayers of our friends—the talks went over better than ever. It was fun to speak to such a great, attentive, loving group of people.

They played several games of water volleyball, and we all did the Toumey 5k, and most of us took some great long walks on the beach. Likewise we ate a lot of great seafood at restaurants far fancier than Brenda and I would choose by ourselves. But, Don paid for all of our meals out but one. We bought his on that evening.

We truly love gathering with this terrific group. We pray, and hope you will join with us, that G^d will use these folks powerfully in their wellness and service to Him.

Blessings to all.

Getting through Rome Airport, Oct 2021

 Getting through Rome Airport, Oct 2021

Step 1: Show your vaccination record to enter.

Step 2: Show vaccination record, Negative COVID test and passport to gate agent.

Step 3: Have your bags x-rayed and show your boarding pass.

Ride the train out to the complex of international gates.

Walk towards gate for Step 4: Enter your picture in Passport scanner.

Step 5: Have your photo taken.

Step 6: Have passport checked again and stamped.

At gate, Step 7: Before boarding have passport checked again.

 

Hmm, to get your boarding pass, you had to show your passport. Why all the passport checks?  You got me.

Now, can you see why we chose to drive to Charleston, SC and Eau Claire, WI? More on those trips later.

Meet Sandro

 One of my most long term connections in Italy is Dr. Sandro B of the Univ. of Bologna. He studied first in Italy and finished his work in the USA at the Univ. of Central Florida. I wrote a recommendation letter for Sandro for his current position at UniBo.

Every time I am in Bologna, Italy, Dr. B sets me up with a talk at the Univ. This time I spoke to two profs and a group of Ph.D. students about our advice for exercise and wellness for people over 50 years of age, a topic he derived from our book, Fit Over 50.

Sandro had the brilliant idea of taking me, Baldwin and Haswell up on the top of San Luca. This is a small mountain right in Bologna. Here is one view from there:

Yes, those are the Italian Alps and that is snow. It was shirtsleeve weather where we were--yet there is snow. It was a beautiful place.

We then had one of the best meals of my life. I don't take many photos of food, but here is one.

Yes, this is Atlantic salmon, and it briefly held the title of the best food I have ever eaten in a restaurant.

Finally, after these treats, we made it to the Uni. Like all my experiences in Italy the audience of Ph.D. students were from around the globe.

Thanks be to G^d for these wonderful opportunities.

Meet Clarissa, and some other Great Folk

 You probably don’t recall my writing about a young student named Flavia. I called her name during a talk I gave a Univ. of Florence in 2019. When I did, she lit up like it was her birthday. This 2021 trip G^d blessed me with another great experience with an undergraduate student, Clarissa.

Clarissa attended my talk at the coffee shop near the Univ. of Florence campus. We were not allowed to gather students on campus due to COVID restrictions. I spoke on managing yourself. Clarissa is a senior at U of Florence majoring in psychology with a goal of helping others. When I called her name, she smiled, rather beamed, and I noted it. So, once again I called her name frequently.

During the question & answer she was engaged and our time there was delightful. Two of the Agape Italia interns there were friends of one of our visiting team, so once again, it's a small world.

The Guy in this photo is my all-time favorite translator, Haswell Beni. He is from Malawi and lives in Florence. He translated for me in the Uni of Florence in 2019, and I was thrilled to have him with us again.

The two young ladies from Texas and Clarissa next to Brenda.

We LOVE getting to meet young people and getting to teach them a little harkens me back to those wonderful years as a Uni. professor.

Thank you L^rd!

Meet Brandon, Courtney, Remi, Leo and Stella

 This beautiful young family represents the hope and the challenges of foreign mission work. They packed up the family and their possessions and moved from Ohio to Roma, Italy. Their little boy, Remi, was an infant. Leo was born in Italy as was Stella who was only 3 weeks old when we took this photo.

For a good part of the last 19 months they were confined to their apartment--only able to walk the dog outside. Imagine what that might have been like with two young energetic boys.

In the midst of COVID and normal life challenges they are still engaged in Christian ministry. Here's an example. The day it was posted, we ran across it on a telephone pole just outside the huge University, La Sapienza, in which no one but staff and students are currently allowed. The handbill is advertising a free "Guide to your new University Life". The Agape Italia staff are creative, hard working, and persistent.

The Italians are a hard group to whom to minister. Please lift them up--and this family is just the represent of almost a dozen more.

Pray.

Meeting w Giosue

 One of the neat things I got to do in Roma, IT was meet with a very bright Christian Student at Foro Italico University who is pursuing a therapy degree. Giosue (Joshua) was one of only 28 total students admitted to the program. Yes, he is just that smart.

Giosue was an at conversationalist. Baldwin had asked me to meet with him just a couple of hours before I was scheduled to speak to the Medical Students. Baldwin and I expected that we would only need a half hour or a bit more to chat. After and hour and a half we had to start wrapping up so I could get back downtown. Giosue courteously volunteered to drive me back so I wouldn't be late.

I write this so that we all may rejoice together. G^d is raising up a terrific young Christian in Italy--a place where Christians are not all that common. Giosue is a handsome, capable young man who will use his giftings for the good of G^d's kingdom.

Rejoice with me!

Mosaic Roma Meeting

Brenda and I had a chance to meet with some folks from...FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, Roma, Italy! What, you didn't know of that congregation--hey it is our Baptist friends, what did you expect?

On my last visit to Roma in 2019, I got to speak to an audience at First Baptist church there after lunch. This trip, I got to speak to their young professionals group in the home of the group leader, Dennis. The group is called "Mosaic" and that is a wonderful name. Many nationalities are represented in that group.

Brandon, who had set up the meeting had told me I should give a talk on "Getting Better Grades". As we began to chat with attendees we learned that ALL but one of them had already graduated, and the one still in university was at the very end of her studies.

Well, with foreign mission trips, as Josh Jones used to say, "Things will change, and then they will change again." So, on the spot I made the call to change to talk to, "What are practical ways for professionals to be salt and light in the workplace."

I made it interactive and the group quickly chimed in. We came with many ways to witness for the Christ in everyday life. Carrying a Bible with you, offering to pray, asking folks how they REALLY are, were just a few of the ideas that developed easily.

It was probably one of my all-time favorite meetings. Those people are young, wonderful committed sisters and brothers in Christ. We should enjoy each other and we did. 

Dennis and his aunt served us a delightful meal and the time together was precious. 

Thanks be to G^d!

Medical Students in Roma

 We had the opportunity to speak to some medical students (Future Nurses and Docs) at Il Ponte in Roma. Thurs Evening 30 Sept. We had students from:

Brazil (3 students)

Italy (1 student, ironic eh?)

Iran (1 student)

Syria (1 student)

USA (1 student)

Agape (Cru) Italian Staff from USA (3)

I quickly learned everyone's names, and called their names as I spoke about the importance of good, clear, accurate communications. Their response was gratifying. They were extremely attentive, and I felt a good connection. They seemed to "Get it" that I loved them and wanted to help them.

Some of their comments afterwards were particularly gratifying.

I hope we can do this talk again one of these days. I also hope that some of them will be more effective communicators in their future.

Casa Dolce, Roma, IT

 Our first 4 days in Roma were spent at the Casa Dolce, in Roma, near the huge University La Sapienza. Brenda and I both recognized the street and the small park in front of our AirBnB, Casa Dolce (home sweet).

When we arrive at Casa Dolce, we have been 3 hours in the airport in BHM, over a half hour in flt to Atlanta, 1.5 hours in ATL, 9 hours in the air and 1 hour traveling only 20 miles through HEAVY Tuesday morning Rome traffic. We are tired and unsure of exactly how to reach our host to get through the heavy locked door of our building.  We ask around and locate Fabio F, who also runs a restaurant.

Fabio was very kind to let us in to his AirBnb and show us around. He speaks NO English and we no Italian, and my limited Spanish was of little help. We got it all done and booked an additional bed for our friend who will join us for the last two nights.

We visited his restaurant for dinner and it was superb.

More on Roma next post.

COVID Testing Report Disaster

 Last post I mentioned our preparations in coming to Italy. We reported to our test site in Birmingham, and waited, and waited, and waited. Finally, after three trips back to the admissions desk, a guy came out and summoned us inside. His timing was good in that the clinic closed at 4PM and it was about 3:40.

We went in and the guy quickly took his samples. They sent us back to our car to wait. We were happy that the over 4 hours we had been in the car was relatively comfortable as the day was cool. Finally a lady brought out our test results about 4 PM. We both got a negative on COVID, so we were thrilled. What I failed to note was that whereas Brenda's form was pristine, mine had NOTHING written in the "Day and Time of Collection Box". Instead underneath the negative it had that information as a note--unfortunately not clearly tied to the time and day of collection.

Well, I hadn't noticed, but the lady at our Delta Flight check-in window did notice. Fortunately she gets her personal medical care from the same clinic. She suggest I call and get a full-completed form sent to me via email. She kindly offered to print off a new copy for me.

Fortunately we got to Delta 3 hours before our flight. After 2.5 hours calling and texting the clinic, I still did NOT have a neat, completed, typed form. We praise the Delta agent, Ava, because she called personally and her success was no better than mine. In an act of mercy, Ava gave us boarding passes and sent us through screening.

We got to Atlanta airport and they screened us again, noticing that my form was not properly filled-out. Fortunately she trusted Ava, so we made it through that screening also.

Whew!

So much stress and frustration even BEFORE boarding a 9-hour flight.

But G^d is good and we made it through the rest of the flight in without any difficulties.

But, word to the wise--look very carefully at your COVID paperwork and make absolutely sure it is completely filled out correctly. I wish someone had told me this.

Blessings,

How NOT to visit Europe during Pandemic

As this posts, we are back in  the USA, but this was written in our AirBnB, Casa Dolce (Sweet house). Getting here was none too simple. Setting up the AirBnb took 3x loner than usual. Our host speaks no English. Fortunately, he does on a restaurant next door, so by asking around we found him.

But, we also had to reserve a hotel room at the airport for our departure. That was likewise challenging for such a simple task, but we got it done. Speaking of hotels, we had to fill out a "EU Personal Locator Form" listing every place we would be in Italy. Oh, and they don't write addresses as we do. The form took a while, but that's not the worst.

Our BIG challenge was getting a COVID negative test within 72 hours of ARRIVING in Italy. We arrived at 0940 local time on a TUESDAY. That meant we had to acquire a negative test on Saturday or Sunday. That wouldn't be hard in a big city, but was very hard in Tuscaloosa, where we live. We could get a test on early Saturday, but we wouldn't get results for 24-48 hours later. That meant we would NOT know the results until as late as Monday AM--the day of departure.

BUT, G^d provided. We met with a young CRU missionary who told us about a Med clinic in Birmingham that could give us 15-min results. Well, their closest clinic was about 50 miles, so we made an appointment on 15 Sept. On 26 Sept., we headed out.  We got there only a few minutes after the clinic opened Sunday afternoon. The desk lady gave us instructions which we followed, but she also advised us that their staff who take and process COVID tests was unexplainably NOT there yet.

Hmm, so what to do? We had an appointment at that location, so I was hesitant to go to the other clinic only about 15 minutes away.  Bad decision.

More on that next post.

A Different Perspective

 Yesterday I got to chat with a long-time friend, Pete G. In the course of our conversation, he mentioned that Christians in some countries put their lives and livelihood at risk by following the Christ. This reminded me of our bold brothers and sisters in Afghanistan. Some Christian Afghanis identify themselves as Christians on their national identity cards. In so doing, they risk death and certainly discrimination.

Pete's purpose in mentioning this was to contrast it with how we, and particularly Christians in Higher Education, are so often fearful of being persecuted for our Christianity.  We both asked, "What is the worst thing we could face in following the Christ?" Well, our status might drop, in a worst case we might be denied tenure. Now compare that with death.

As I have mentioned before, in the Sermon on the Mount, in Matthew 5:11-12 Jesus tells us that if we suffer for His sake, our reward in heaven will be great. Our problem is that we have doubts about those rewards. We are confident of the benefits of status now, and clearly earning tenure is a big deal.

And, of course it is easy for Pete and I to be brave, because tenure is not at stake for us. Likewise we are not worried about our status. But, what do we Christians have to fear? Our biggest problem has already been solved by Jesus the Christ.

"Fear not!" is a common command in Scripture.  "Fear G^d!" is also a common command in Scripture.

Let's put these two commands together and let us be bold in proclaiming the Christ/

A tool from the Trash

 As most readers know, I get a  lot of stuff out of the trash. A couple of three months back, I stumbled on a tool in a big pile of garbage. I thought, I'll see if it is useful, and if not, I can always throw it away.

Throw it away?  I'd have to be crazy.  Take a look at this iron baby:

The shoe is included to show you how long the pry bar is. The bottom is excellent for pulling stuff apart. You get super leverage. I needed to lift something really heavy last week, and slipped the tapered in under and voila, it was easily lifted. The length of the bar combined with the length of the prying fulcrum makes this thing powerful!

And, the price was great!

Still Freaked Out

 I am a bit surprised. I have still not gotten used to being retired. It hit me again yesterday.  A check shows up, and I didn't do anything (lately) to earn it.  Freaky!

I do miss the students and colleagues. Each term I got a new group of students, and got to start over as a teacher. The students were young, with much to learn about life and about the course material. Some were excited, and some had to be "won over". It was a continual challenge, but I wanted to serve them well and to have an eternal impact on them, so I gave it a full effort.

I do enjoy the great freedom that comes with retirement. Now instead of working 50+ hours per week, I can work on things around home. I can get caught up with the chores and look for new things to do. I have the freedom to accept invites to minister, regardless of where, when or how long it takes. These aspects are great.

I can see how many retirees could struggle with a lack of purpose. If all you are doing is indulging your own fancies, it could get pretty old, pretty quick. Plus with a fairly free schedule, it is much harder--yes it is--to workout regularly and do the things that formerly simply held a place in the weekly schedule.

I even think, on occasion, about going back to teaching somewhere. But, I do realize that working as a missionary is first place in my working life, and I would be much restricted if I went back to the job. So, if you hear me mention it, remind me of the positives of a free schedule.

Oh, and a check shows up each month, without me doing anything but staying alive. Freaky! Did I mention that?

Pointing Fingers

 I was recently in a discussion with one of my pastor friends, who is African American. My friend was citing Scriptures against rich people oppressing poor people. There is NO shortage of Scriptures warning the rich of the perils of riches. Likewise, Jesus tells us not to seek riches here on earth, and when talking about salvation with the rich young ruler (Lk 18 and Mk 10), sends the young may away "grieved" for he had much wealth.

I admitted to my friend that I considered myself to be rich, and that the majority of people in the USA (implying him too) are rich by worldwide standards. I also mentioned that as I have talked to people around the world, the aspiration to wealth was extremely common.

He said he was well aware of aspirations but that was irrelevant, we needed to condemn the rich like Scripture does. I then pointed out that we are always quick to condemn the sins we think are beneath us. We want others to "straighten up".

But when I point my finger at others, I have 3 pointing back at me. I am a rich sinner, saved by grace alone. I haven't earned this, I just rest in it.

Thank you L^rd, that even a rich guy like me (and a great many friends, including pastors) can enjoy your grace and mercy!

Bested by a Beaver

 Last night (9-10) as I was docking my canoe in the backyard after fishing, I thought sure I heard a beaver slap its tail against the water's surface. They do that if they are alarmed. I hadn't seen a beaver, but within a couple of minutes, here he swam.

Back in June, we had a terrific rainstorm that flooded the creek below our house. A week or a little more later, Andrew and I spotted a lone beaver, that had likely sought refuge from the flood in our lake. I later noticed that a small cherry tree in our backyard had been gnawed down by a beaver.

I contacted the head of our homeowner's association, my next-door neighbor, Walter, and told him what I had seen. I told Walter that I would try to remove the beaver. He agreed.

I started trying in mid-July, with NO success. Today, Brenda and I saw not one beaver, but two! I was NOT happy to see the beautiful, hard-working creatures. Today, my limited efforts were replaced by those of a professional hired at a pretty high price.

I hope he succeeds where I failed.

Running the Old Route(s)

 Today (8 Sept) I ran on campus for the first time since about Feb 2020. I knew it would be hot to run later in the day, but really wanted to run on some of the old paths of yesteryear.

It was neat to see how much things had changed, and how much they had stayed the same in the preceding 19 or so months. There were some things I hadn't expected. But all in all it was nice to be back in the old haunts. It was slow and very sweaty, but nice.

And yes, I picked up a lot of trash. One of the older guys on campus, a student I think, maybe a grad student, thanked me.  He offered, "If I had my wallet I take out some money for you." Lucky day to not have your wallet, I guess. But I appreciated his appreciation, nonetheless.

I ran some familiar ground, but over the years at UA, I covered a lot of routes multiple times. I did a little chunk today, but there's a lot more to be done. I hope the COVID situation continues to improve and that I can get back to some of these other routes. Of course my body has to cooperate also.

We shall see.  Stay tuned.

Blessings,

 

It's a...Humingbird Explosion

 For reasons unknown, our hummingbird feeder has been overrun with hummers the last 3 days or so (it is 5 Sept today). We have had as many as 8 hovering around it, and that's a problem, as it only has 4 "flowers". We have had all four occupied at once, which is pretty unusual because they are not accepting towards each other. As most of you know, they fight constantly.

I am unsure as to why hummers are so appealing. They are marvelous to watch--so tiny, so maneuverable, so animated. Last year we found 2 of their nests in our pines in the backyard. We haven't seen a one this year. But there has been a steady supply of hummers--though never this many.

We first speculated that one of our close neighbors had taken down their feeder, or perhaps had an empty feeder. It is also possible that these are pausing on their southward migration, and stocking up on food for the long journey to Mexico or Central America. This is the right time of year.

Regardless of the reason, we are thoroughly enjoying this "flock" of hummers. Their constant fighting, even when there is plenty of food for all, reminds us of ourselves. Humans are like hummers.

They are very hard to photograph with a phone, but here are a couple:

I only got singles, but trust me, there are gangs out there now.

Ah, the beauty of G^d's creation.

Calming and Quieting Our Souls

 Ps 131:1-2,

"O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high;

I do not occupy myself with things
    too great and too marvelous for me.
2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul,
    like a weaned child with its mother;
    like a weaned child is my soul within me."

Presently, Afghanistan is in turmoil. Haiti is struggling from the latest disaster. Inflation is quite high at the moment. The world is covered by a pandemic. And this is why these verses are so meaningful right now.

I, and you, have NO control over any of these things. We don't even control the mundane things: traffic, weather, others' attitudes and actions. 

It would be easy, easy to despair.

But, we Followers of Jesus don't have to occupy ourselves with things too great and marvelous for us. We can simply relax like a weaned child with its mother. Mom will take care of her baby, and the G^d who spoke the world into existence will take care of us.

No worry, no fretting, no agitation, we can simply relax in the arms of G^d. He loves us enough to die for us. He is our hope. We shall spend eternity with Him.

Relax.

Life review: Where were you in _______?

 I thought it might be useful, some day in the future to know when we were in various places, and when some events occurred. So here goes:

My birth: 10 Mar 50.

Graduated USNA:  June 7, 1972

Shipboard, USS Sellers, Sept 1972-March 1973

VQ 4 Flight Squadron, 1974-1977

VMI, 1977-1980

UGA Doctoral program, and temp assist prof, Aug 1980-Aug 1984

Promoted to Assoc. Prof, 1990

Visiting Professor, New Chalcedonia (formerly The Queen's) College, Glasgow, Scotland, U.K., 1992

Promoted to Full Prof, 1994

Visiting scientist JSC, April 1991-Aug1992, association w JSC lasted until 2000

Director of Human Performance Lab, 1984-2005

Visiting Prof at USMA, Aug 1997-June 1998

Summer Research Fellow, U.S. Army Biomedical Research and Development Laboratory, Ft. Detrick, MD, 1998 

Visiting Investigator, Nationellt Vintersport Centrum, Mid-Sweden University (MIUN), Ostersund, Sweden, Feb 2- May15, 2012 

Fulbright Fellow, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana. Teaching and Research, Jan 15-Dec 2, 2013

More later.

A Sincere Question

 Pre-COVID, one of my best friends invited me to a men's conference in a venue that seats over 10k. The Conference was excellent, with well-qualified speakers and excellent music. It was fantastic to be in a venue with so many men who wanted to worship G^d and grow more like the Christ. I enjoyed it thorougly, but then started doing the math on the conference.

I think there were between 5k and 10k as the announced attendance. This was a while back, but I am thinking the registration was $100. So the gross was about $700k. Most of the speakers & musicians were selling something: Books, CDs, tee shirts--something. I don't know if those folks had to pay for the opportunity to sell their wares, or if it was an even trade, or whatever. Regardless of the exact math, the man who put this on grossed a huge amount and netted a goodly sum.

Likewise, my youngest two kids worked at a Christian camp in CA. They and dozens of other volunteers got paid $0. But the fee for attending one week of the camp was $3k a person--give or take a little. The camp was big enough that I won't even try to do the math, but let me assure you, this is a very profitable venture.

Now, as my friend Rex used to say, "Money is like oxygen, you need a little bit to live." So, I do NOT have any problem with paying a pastor, youth pastor, music minister, or lawn-care person a fair wage. I used to say I was the ONLY over-paid prof in the entire University--so I am not whining about my own pay, nor begrudging anyone a profit.

BUT, here's my question for you: When does financially profiting in the name of Christ become profiteering in the name of Christ? Again there are operating costs. Ministering does not come free. Facilities are expensive. I want Salvation Army and Children's Hospital to continue their good work. On the other hand, it seems a shame to charge so very much that some Believers can't afford a conference or camp, so that the owner/operator can make a fortune.

I am NOT seeking a specific $$ amount that is a hard-and-fast boundary. I am sincerely asking, what is the difference between a justifiable profit necessary to feed everybody and pay the bills, and what is profiteering in the name of Christ?

Comments, private messages, all input is welcome. Thanks.

Life review: A little encouragement for Parents

 As the parent of 5 kids, I was often searching Scripture for better direction in parenting. Except for a few verses, I concluded that G^d just didn't give us much direction. But then I concluded, the MORE I can fully engage as a Follower of Jesus, the better parent I am. It's tough--we must strive to be as Christ-like as we can all the time! Grace and mercy to any parents who may read this.

In fact, all the troubles we face have similar answers: be MORE like the Christ. Frustrated? Annoyed? Greedy? Covetous? Judgmental? All these from worst to least need one remedy: be more like the Christ.

It is easier said than done of course. This is why I appreciate G^d's grace and mercy so very much. He knows we will fail--which is why the Christ came. He lets us start over again and again.

Blessings, friends,

Life Review: Prepping to Teach

 I just a couple of days back learned what I would be teaching in the fall Sunday School class. I will teach with tow other guys, which means I only prep 5 classes total. As usual, I got busy pronto prepping these classes. 

I find early prep to be very useful. When you have a grasp of what you will be teaching soon, you can keep your eyes and ears open for good illustrations, good ideas, good points. It is 22 August and the first class is 12 Sept, so I do have some time.

I went ahead and prepped my first two classes: the overview and Chapter 1 of Joshua. I am starting to at least outline the last 3 classes--all of which I will teach. My only worry is having to trade w someone. Maybe I'll just stop with the outline for now.

As you might guess, I enjoy prepping to teach G^d's word. I am pretty sure I get more out of the prepping than I do with casual reading.

How about you? Ever teach? What's your prep routine?

Late Flowers

 We were shocked to see only 2 days back (14 Aug), a new gladiola bloom.  Here 'tis.

So why were we so surprised? Because these usually bloom in May, and early June. Not only did this one show up late, it blooms are quite pretty as you can see. G^d is sovereign, and things happen as He desires. What a joy to see this lone bloom in the upper flower bed.

Last year we planted a group of zinnias after they had bloomed. Today we had but one bloom, but it is a good 'un. Take a look.

We have enjoyed this summer so much and the joy of the flowers has added to it. There has been an abundance of rain, but the flowers have benefitted greatly.

Thank you L^rd for the beauty of the earth.

The Late Bobby Bowden

 Last week the great FSU football coach, Bobby Bowden, died. I never followed FSU or coach Bowden very closely, but I did quote him from time to time.

Coach Bowden spoke at First Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa, AL in the late 1980's. We were members of that congregation from 1984-1991, before my first Sabbatical. 

My most often used quote is Bowden's tale about proposing to his wife. Allegedly, it went like this.

"I proposed to my wife over the phone, because I couldn't be there in person. I said, 'Will you marry me?' and she said, 'Yes!, Who is this?'"

Of course I retell the story without attribution and use me and Brenda as the players.

His second big quote from the evening was about mentions of his retirement from FSU. He started coaching there in 1976 and didn't retire until 2009. I was pretty new in my professorship at UA, so retirement seemed a long way off then. But, in what seems a few short years since that night, I find myself retired from UA and working with Cru. So, Coach wasn't totally correct when he said,

 “After you retire, there's only one big event left....and I ain't ready for that.”

He died on 8 August, 2021 at age 91. I know he has a reputation as a committed Christian. I suspect he was ready.

How about you?

Running Alone

For over the last year, Andrew and I have run together about 3x per week, typically M, W, F. We started out going a bit over 3 miles and then ramped it up to 5. We have been steadily at 5 miles per run since fall of 2020.

Andrew has either been booked or out of town since early August, so I have been running alone since 4 August. Our conversations are seldom deep, but I am amazed at how much easier it is to run with someone rather than alone.

I have been running pretty steadily since early 1976, I think. Much of that time I ran with buddies. Roger B was my first regular running buddy, then Mike B, then Kirk C and others at UGA. Once I got to UA, I ran mostly with my graduate students, but sometimes with colleagues. Matt G and I ran many a mile together, and Yang Z ran with us often. My old buddy Wojtek was a colleague and one of my all-time most interesting running buddies.

Once I retired, I was relegated mostly to running alone, so it has been great to have Andrew to chat with as we huff and puff up and down hills. He got here in March of 2020 just as COVID was ravaging the USA.

I am a bit surprised to see that I am running slower when I go by myself. It is quite hot out, so that slows me some. I think too, the lack of distraction causes me to focus more on the physical challenges of running and that is the big issue.

Running alone makes scheduling easier--but beyond that there are no apparent advantages.

Well, back to the loneliness of the long-distance runner.

Last Daylily of 2021

 Today we have our last daylily bloom of 2021. It has been a remarkable season. Seldom do daylilies last through July, and yet here it is, 7 August.

This daylily is also special, because it was already a part of this flowerbed before we planted the daylilies we got from David and Doris. It is original to our house we bought in 2019. As we have said before herein, we have really enjoyed our flowers this particularly wet summer. It is only in the last 2 weeks that we have had successive dry days. It has also not been quite as hot as we have seen in the past. In fact, most mornings it is extremely pleasant sitting on the upper porch drinking coffee and seeing what is on the pond.

But it is the exception that makes things interesting. In Alabama no one complains that the summer is not hot enough--it is, even this year.

And, here's a reminder from last Spring.

Thank you L^rd for the beauty of the earth.

Colonoscopy Fun--No Photos Please

 Yep, today (4 Aug) I had my last (hopefully) colonoscopy. I encourage all between 45 and 75 to get one, but be prepared. It is the worst preparation I have ever seen. Were it done involuntarily, it would qualify as one of the most inhumane tortures of all time.

It starts weeks earlier with a perfunctory visit to the doctor's office which produces little besides a billable visit. But that's the most pleasant part.

Starting a week before the visit--yes, that does seem a bit early doesn't it, since transit time through the intestines is about 40 hours max--your diet is impacted. You can eat no nuts, seeds, corn, popcorn, or watermelon. It turns out that I happen to love most of those things. But, we are blessed with a huge choice of foods, so not that big a deal, except a week??, a whole week???

Two days before "the procedure" you take an over-the-counter laxative, which I assure you is quite effective. But it is not effective enough, apparently. The 24 hours before "the procedure" you can only intake CLEAR liquids, and this prohibits anything with red, blue, green or purple coloring. And, at the end of this day you are required to guzzle--yes guzzle--a half-gallon of salty laxative that is also very, very effective. Mine had a packet of lemon flavoring, but I never tasted anything remotely lemony. This results in clean, clean intestines. I mean, my intestines were as clean as they were before I took that first drink of mother's milk. 

But it gets even worse...because at 0255 this AM, I had to drink another half gallon of that salty, disgusting laxative. It again performed as expected, and I was surprised to be able to sleep for a couple of hours afterwards.

Well, as the surgical center required we arrived there a little after 0700. I filled out the paperwork and waited, and waited and did some pushups, and waited, and did some stretching and waited, and did a few more pushups and waited...until almost 0900. I went back, disrobed, donned the gown, had my vein poked twice to start an IV, and waited some more, hooked up to a heart monitor, an oxygen monitor and an auto-blood pressure monitor...and waited some more.

Finally a bit after 0930 the anesthetist did his job, and I went to sleep. After that it was pretty easy.

Yep, the actual "procedure" was NOTHING compared to the waiting, and that was nothing at all compared to the prep.

But, to be safe, you need one done. So prepare to sit on the toilet a while.

Life review: Goooo Auburn

 I recently saw a blog post by one of my former undergrad students, Auburn M. Auburn was a great student, an overachiever, from NC, and co-captain of the soccer team. I announced to her class, as I did every term, to let me know if they were performing in a sports competition, or a dance recital or anything else--I would be there.

So, I found myself, and Brenda at several home soccer games that fall. We would sit up in the stands near the UA goal, and I would shout over and over, "GO Auburn!" to encourage my student and the team.

Most readers will quickly recall that Auburn University, right down the road is a huge rival of Alabama sports fans. And sometimes this rivalry gets quite heated--unreasonably so. So here I am, in the stands at the Alabama soccer stadium, yelling for, what some fans assumed, was the hated rival--and the Auburn team wasn't even the opponent.

So, when other fans started giving me funny looks, I realized that many of them didn't realize the Alabama captain was named "Auburn"--so my "GO Auburn!" screams were confusing to them. But their ignorant stares were no match for my support for my student, so "GO Auburn!" continued for the rest of that game and for several more.

And, of course, Auburn University is an excellent school. I even thought about going there when I was originally turned down by the US Naval Academy. So, 

"GO Auburn!"

Ecclesiastes

 I just started re-reading the Foundational Testament book of Ecclesiastes again. It was written by Solomon and in my view, is best read as if we were reading his diary. As I began reading this AM, it struck me how mankind really doesn't change all that much. We all pursue "our best life now" and Joel Osteen promotes it. We all discover, sooner or later, that "all is vanity and vexation of spirit". Nothing is fulfilling, no matter how much money, how many possessions, how lavish our lifestyle.

But somehow the message is forgotten, or lost, or never grasped. I am fortunate to be reminded of this truth almost daily, and I am shocked to discover how quickly I forget and need a re-reminder. And, as I said, this is nothing new. It was written sometime around 300 years before the Christ, and yet it rings so true today.

In some ways, I draw comfort from the fact that humans have wrestled with the same issues for at least 2200 years. The current craziness in the world is not new. After all "there's nothing new under the sun.". Read the first couple of chapters of Ecclesiastes, and see what you think.

More Kid Trips: American Village

Yesterday, 30 July, we attended the last "Red, White, and Blue Day" of the 2021 calendar at American Village in Montevallo, AL. Montevallo is just over an hour from our home. We really enjoy historical sites like Appomattox Courthouse, Greenwich Village, and Williamsburg, so we were a bit surprised that we had never visited a place so near.

We took Anna, her two kids, and Andrew with us. We saw every exhibit and asked as many questions as they could tolerate. The setting is revolutionary American in the late 1770's. The crowd was very small, so that made it so pleasant and allowed us to ask more questions than at busier times.

Anna and Andrew reminisced a bit about their memories of all the places we had hauled them to over the years. We were gratified that the two little ones, ages 8 and 6 seemed to really enjoy it too.

Admission was only $5 each with veterans free. If you haven't been, I'd recommend it. The program changes a bit with the seasons, so visit their www site to plan your trip.

Enjoy.

Life review: Kid trips

 Yesterday, 26 July, Brenda and I took grandsons Parker and Isaac to Alabama Adventure and Splashworld in Bessemer. We took our own 5 kids to lots of great places during their childhoods. Schlitterbahn and Aquarena Springs, both in south Texas, the Houston Zoo, and to Six Flags over Georgia, among others.

Yesterday's admission fees would have made such trips prohibitive when our kids were little, but fortunately fees were cheaper then.

The boys' attitudes were gratifying. They enjoyed themselves, never complained, and expressed gratitude.

Brenda and I found the amusement rides a bit too much. I went down one of the huge slides with Parker and he and I agreed it was a bit to stressful to repeat.

Yep, our enjoyment of the rides was surprisingly diminished. We did get to see two short "shows" of "aquabatics". One was trampoline-based and the second was 3-meter and tower diving. Both were surprisingly good. Parker really enjoyed the diving show, which was near the end of the visit. It was remarkably good.

Well, things do change, and our key enjoyment was floating on the lazy river. But memories are great. There's a lot of good in "kid trips."

Life Review: A Boring Life

As I look back over my 71.4 years, my life has been truly blessed in so very many way. Thanks be to G^d! It would be hard to describe any of it as boring. I remember the end of my Plebe summer at the US Naval Academy, after being tortured all summer, remarking to my dad, "It's just the same thing, day after day." My dad replied, "Son, you'll find that a lot of life is like that."

Whereas my Dad's wisdom was accurate, as usual, in the bigger picture life has been a thrill. In the US Navy I encircled the globe visiting countries that seldom make the news. We moved all over the eastern USA, living from Corpus Christi, TX to Newport, RI.

Having 5 kids kept life far from boring from 1977, through today. Our grandkids keep the interest high.

My job was always interesting, and working with Cru Faculty ministry has kept life challenging. I like to solve problems and build things out of what others have discarded.

I have recently discovered that being "caught up" is hard on me. It hasn't happened many times in my life, but recently I have been waiting on other people to move my projects forward, so I have been waiting--something hard for me.

But things will pick up very soon--and any threat of boredom will soon be forgotten. Boredom is bad.

Life Review: Our Privileged Past

My 4 brothers and I grew up poor in a small town, Canton, in North Georgia. Our mom stayed home to take care of the family whilst dad worked from 0630 to 1800 every day but half a day on Wed. When he got over about 65 he cut back to 5 days a week and took all day off on Wed. His peak income during out years at home was probably under $15k. All of us but Danny somehow went to college and all 4 of us earned Masters degrees with 2 of us earning doctoral degrees.

We had the privilege of walking everywhere since our mother never learned to drive and we never had more than one vehicle anyway until us kids could drive. We lived in an $8k home that was basically 2 BR, 1 Bath. Our only new car was one dad bought after we all left home.

Our privilege extended to squirrel hunting behind the house, picking up chestnuts and hickory nuts and small sweet peaches behind the house. We walked up and down the Etowah River banks, and occasionally swam in the river at the gravel bed. We had the privilege of working at the Canton Swimming Pool when we were old enough to be life guards.

I don't recall having nice clothes, or nice anything. We had the privilege of eating well but that included trout we caught and squirrels and rabbits we harvested. We had the privilege of walking the two miles each way to the swimming pool or wherever we had to be.

We had the privilege of participating in graded choir practice, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Royal Ambassadors. I had the privilege of Boy Scouts and becoming an Eagle Scout, which helped me acquire the privilege of attending the US Naval Academy and earning a nice degree by agreeing to let the enemy try to kill me for at least 4 years afterwards.

Yes, we had many privileges growing up in a small town where everyone knew everyone. We had the privilege of knowing our parents who remained married our whole lives. We had the privilege of learning how to live on little money.

Thanks be to G^d from whom all privileges flow!

Life Review: Hearing again

 It is 20 July 2021. This AM, early, I reported to the VA hospital where I received my first ever hearing aids. I have been amazed at all I can hear--and ruing the loss of a quieter world.

I can hear the auto turn signals--which I used to call "blinkers" when I could hear them. But I also hear random car noises that I was happier not hearing.

Likewise I can hear lots of little squeaks, creaks, and groans--and many are emanating from my own joints. Didn't need to hear those.

My microphones for the hearing aids are on top of my ears, so every time I move my glasses, I hear this odd noise.

Even my voice sounds louder and different, because I am hearing more through the air and less through the bone.

These are light weight with control from my cell phone. I like them, but now I see there were some advantages to hearing less. So if you are losing your hearing, know that it isn't all bad.

Blessings,

More Joys from the Little Lake

 As I have noted before, we searched and searched to find a home on some water. We looked on Lake Tuscaloosa and Hurricane Creek. We considered the Black Warrior River, and rural homes with ponds. G^d provided us our present home that combines great location with 5 acres of serene lake, right on our back yard.

Brenda and I have enjoyed sitting out on the upper back porch in the cool looking at the lake. As I write, from that very spot, it is only about 73 oF, despite that it is 16 July! I just saw 7 Canada geese land in front of our dock. Seems odd time of year for them to be passing through, but we will enjoy their brief visit with us.

Last night, beginning at 7:15 PM Andrew and I launched the canoe to fish until full dark. We fished a bit, saw a beaver swimming in the lake, and caught more than 2 dozen bass and bream. The little puffs of cool air added to our pleasure. It is a great convenience to walk to the backyard, launch the canoe, and be fishing immediately. And, having learned where to catch the fish, it is great fun. And, those fish taste great.

I know this is getting redundant, to keep sharing the joys of lakeside living, but at least I am not complaining!

Speaking in the Prophetic Voice

 As I have mentioned before, I have the gift/curse of prophesy. As I have also clarified, prophets speak to the church, and only on occasion do they speak into the future, most often speaking instead about where the Body of Christ--the Church is falling short. Prophecy is seldom well received (see Matt 5:12). And, of course, like any gift, it can be applied at the wrong time. I confess to this from 11 July communion.

We give a brief teaching from an assigned Scripture, before we administer the elements. The Scripture I was assigned came from I Thess 5: " 9 For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."  The part I messed up was, "...whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him." Now, that's a pretty positive phrase referring to our being with our L^rd whether we be alive or dead. Hard to mess up, right?

Well, except, speaking prophetically, I reminded the congregation that Jesus was always with them.

Nothing wrong with that, you observe correctly.

But then I applied that Scripture as a threat, that even in our sinful acts, Jesus is there watching us. Whereas that is true, I had prophetically taken the great news of Christ with us and truned it into a guilt-inducing threat attempting to induce better behavior.

Welcome to the gift/curse of prophecy.

You're welcome.

Reaching China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt, Vietnam, Thailand and Iran, without leaving home...

 "We know that roughly 75% of the world population that does not yet know Jesus lives in around 12 countries, through some research done by Jesus Film Project®. These countries are China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt, Vietnam, Thailand and Iran. What can we do to help change the dynamic in these countries?"                                                                                                                                        Steve Sellers, President, Cru

Who among us regularly visits China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt, Vietnam, Thailand and Iran?  My guess is nobody.

But where do folks from these countries visit often and for years?  US Universities.

I encourage all readers to:

1) Host a visiting student from one of these countries.

2) Encourage faculty and staff at your nearest college or university to invest in these students with intent to share the Good News of Jesus the Christ.

Now, that's a lot easier than getting on a plane, eh?