Traveling the Rock Road

I was recently reminded of an old friend (and I use the term “friend” loosely) that I worked with years back. Gabe was a man that had a story for everyone you told him. If you did something, he did more and better. If you were sick, he had it worse but healed up faster. I think you get the idea. Not a lot of guys would sit with old Gabe at break time; but being the type of person I am, I would let him regale his latest exploits as I sipped on my coffee. The day came a certain gal he met seemed to take an interest in him and the two were together every chance they had. It made my coffee break much quieter.

Her, being originally from Los Angeles, convinced Gabe they would have a much better life if the two of them moved to L.A. It wasn’t long before my friend sold everything he had amassed over his adult life to pay for their journey west. He asked my opinion and I told him, “You just met this gal and really don’t know that much about her. Why don’t you wait say a year or so to get to know each other better before you give up a good job. L.A. is not going anywhere; if you still feel strongly about going out there, you’ll at least be more prepared. Well, that was a waste of words and breath. A week later they were piled into an overpacked car and heading to California.

About a month passed and I get a collect call; it was Gabe. “What’s up Gabe?” “I don’t believe it.” We rented a nice apartment that took most of my money and the only job I could find paid me less than what I was making and it’s more expensive to live here.” Then she throws me out and the only place I could afford to stay at was this flophouse. And it’s scary! I made a big mistake. It there anyway you can send me money to take a bus back home?” Oh Brother! Cathy and I were just barely making ends meet. We had just had our first child so living on one income, my job, was enough to meet our needs but that was about it. I told him to call me back in an hour so my Lady and I could talk about it. We did talk and pray about it. Bus tickets were still affordable, but when you’re stretched economically any added expenses are tough. We discussed how different people helped us when we were in trouble and we felt it wouldn’t be right not to do the same for someone else. So, I wired him the money.

Several weeks past before Gabe came to see. He had a new job and was living with a friend until he could get on his feet. He got around to saying, “Now I’m going to pay you back just as soon as I can.” That was something else Cath and I talked about. We could have told Gabe this is a loan, but the ones that helped us never did, so we felt strongly to act in the same way. “Gabe, don’t worry about it. If you’re ever in a spot to pay us back fine, but if not that’s okay.” Without hesitation his next words, “Okay, thanks.” I had to smile a bit at his comment, but I wasn’t surprised or upset. At least not until later on.

Time passed and I was laid off from my job and now we were expecting our next child. We couldn’t afford to do anything, so other than odd jobs I’d pick up to bring in a few bucks, we stayed home. One evening Gabe stopped by to visit. He was now working two jobs and doing quite well for himself. He also said he was sorry to hear about our situation. He then stopped talking, pulled out his wallet and began counting the money he had. Cathy and I looked at each as if to say, “Are we about to see a miracle here’? Is he getting ready to pay us back for our kindness?”  After he had fingered though his wad of bills, he stuffed them back in his wallet. “Have to go to the grocery store when I leave here, just wanted to see if I had enough money on me.” As soon as he left out anger exploded! Same old Gabe. He just wanted to show off the stash of money he had, with no intentions of paying us back.

After the anger cooled down; we reminded each other that we hadn’t made a loan to Gabe. We gave freely and whether or not he ever paid us back was entirely on him. He chose not to so there was nothing more to say.

Colossians 3:23 tells us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working FOR THE LORD, and not for men.”

Old Gabe was happy for the gift we gave him, but it was obvious he wasn’t grateful for the sacrifice we made. But the two of us had taken a commitment that whatever we do would be treated as if we were doing it directly for our Lord. When you consider the sacrifice Christ made for all of us on the cross so that we would be with Him in heaven someday; well, a few bucks gone doesn’t even begin to match up. Besides, you can’t out give God. I’m not into this prosperity theology I hear today, but I do know anything done with a grateful heart, God will see and know. Times got rough, but I can say we never saw a hungry day, nor went without a roof over our heads or a bed to sleep in. Sometimes we stood in amazement when money came in just in time to take care of a bill. Awesome!

“It’s one thing to be grateful. It’s another to give thanks. Gratitude is what you feel. Thanksgiving is what you do.” –Tim Keller

So, whatever happened to this “Traveler of the Rock Road” the Lord put in my path? Last time I heard anything; he had met another gal that convinced him to move to Arkansas. I suppose I was glad to hear he was gone again. God used Gabe to teach me to do everything with a grateful heart, or don’t do it at all. Still, being human it was kinda nice to know I wouldn’t be running into him and be a captive audience for some of his stories of conquest and victory.

I wish the old boy well. But to this day I look hard at a caller ID to make sure it’s not him before answering it!

Thanks for reading.

See ya next time.

Dennie and I have a lot in common, but then a lot of differences. We both worked at the same place, in the same department and enjoyed each other’s company.  We both were college educated but relied more on common sense than education. We enjoyed a good joke and got frustrated at the same with aggravations. We both had long and good marriages and our favorite people to be with was our wives. But then there were also differences.

Dennie grew up loving the outdoors; he would spend every moment he could there. I loved it also but not to his extent. He once, along with his brother and dad canoed from Minnesota to Canada to fish and live off the land for two weeks. He had patience for intricate projects. He could spend hours building remote controlled planes that he was very good at flying. Me, a project I could spend a few hours on and if the model plane didn’t come together it probably would become kindling for the wood burner out back. We both worked in a lab specifically in metallurgical science. When I took up this career it was very frustrating trying to understand everything. But Dennie was a whiz at the technique and understanding. Matter of fact he held a degree in metallurgical engineering. He could have risen to a higher level in our occupation, but he enjoyed being on the grassroots of the job, mostly because at the end of the day he could go home and forget about it till the next.  His ability and understanding helped me greatly in understanding the process. Without his mentoring, I doubt I would have lasted a year.

So Dennie was a friend and a teacher to me and we enjoyed working together. The one area we had differences was our belief system in God and what it was to live the Christian life. His beliefs were structured and revolved around carrying out certain sacraments to someday achieve heaven.  Where my belief is wrapped around grace and mercy that came through Jesus. Even though he couldn’t buy a theology that was so simple, he was always willing to listen. And if I presented my position, he needed to see it in the Bible. Gracious and courteous was my pal Dennie, but he just couldn’t wrap his head around salvation that was a gift and not of works. That all changed one day.

Frustrated where he and his Lady attended, he shopped around for another church and wound up at one that shared what I had talked to him about. In a class for new people he peppered the pastor with many questions that were each answered from the Word. He studied fervently everything he could get his hands on. In the end he concluded joyfully, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”  Now I could say Dennie was my friend, mentor, and Brother in Christ.

Now I suppose I could say we had something else in common. But that wouldn’t be totally correct. Yes, we shared a love of Jesus and both believed in salvation through grace, but Dennie took on the role in a much deeper conviction and love than I did. Dennie became the epitome of one with a servant’s heart. Jesus came into the world as a servant and not a conquering king in order to teach us to live the same way. Take a look at Philippians 2:1-11. He practiced the characteristics of Philippians 2:3-5 “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.” In the home, with family and friends, and especially in the church can one practice and achieve the servant’s heart.  But in the workplace where the pressure is always on; well, it can be a bit harder. I admit, there were times I had shortcomings and could lose my composure. But if Dennie had any frustrations he never showed them. Even with bosses and fellow employees who could be rude he never retaliated in any way. I doubt you would find anyone who worked with this man that could say a bad word about him. Because there wasn’t any! There were times when I blew up, he settled me down. Not by what he had to say, but by being a peaceful spirit with a soft smile. I feel I learned volumes in that Christ-like attitude over reading about it.  On more than one occasion I thought to myself, “I have seen grace and mercy in the form of a servant; a lab technician.

I once heard a quote that said; “The true character of ministry is a servant’s heart.” It makes me wonder how many seeds were planted for Christ in his actions and ways. I dare say probably many more than some with a Bible and a sermon. Not critical, just a thought.

Dennie and I retired within six months of each other; he wasn’t ready, but health issues mandated he had to. We saw each other sporadically but would talk on the phone. The last time was a week ago Friday. Same old Dennie, upbeat and planning out the next day. Sunday morning to the surprise and grief of all who loved him, Dennie suddenly went home to Jesus. First time I cried in a long time. But as one put it, those tears are for me losing my friend, not for Dennie. He was now happier than words could describe.

Okay, I’ve gotten a little lengthy in my writing tonight, and it wasn’t really what I had planned on. But I wanted you all to meet my friend. He was a very special man and I thank God for putting him in my life.

One last thought. I have no theological basis for this, but I see Dennie in the arms of Jesus and hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” And in my imagination, I can also see Jesus drape an arm over Dennie’s shoulder, calling everybody over and with a big smile saying, “Hey, here is what I’ve been talking about, having the Servant’s Heart!”

I love you Dennie

See ya next time.

Without a doubt anyone who ever has worked in the foundry industry will attest to how dirty you get working in the that environment; some are much worse than others. I can tell my own horror stories, but thankfully I spent the majority of my career in the lab. But many years back I remember an individual who left work every day filthier than anyone there. You would have thought he just came out of a coalmine he was so black.  Cory worked on a molding machine crew. This is where molten metal would be poured into molds made of sand and bit a clay to hold them together from the extreme heat from the liquid iron. The molds would move down a conveyor line where they would cool, dump off onto a shaker system that would break away the formed casting from the mold. The vibration would then push them to an area where men would take the casting off and the black sand would dump back onto a conveyor belt that would return it to the molding machine for reuse. This conveyor was in a basement that ran the length of the machine and it leaked sand terribly on the floor. This is where Cory came in. It was his job to go down into the basement and with a shovel scoop up the excess sand from the floor and toss it back on the belt. This area was filthy as well as the air you had to breath. Also, because the sand is hot from having the iron in it, makes the basement almost unbearable as well as highly humid. So good old Cory wearing a paper face respirator would spend the majority of his day stuck in this hell hole. Sadly, a few of his co-workers would make fun of him getting so dirty, but Cory took it all in stride. He told me it wasn’t that bad after he got used to it. “They make fun of me no matter what. This way I work all by myself and I don’t have to listen to them.”

A number of years passed and Cory hurt his back so he was no longer able to do the basement job; as time passed he had to quit work entirely. So, a new man would have to take over his job. The guys who used to make fun of him weren’t laughing anymore when they had to do the work. No one did as good a job as Cory and none could stay down in the basement as long as he did. Over the course of time the basement got worse, so bad it would clog up the conveyor belt and production would have to halted until a crew could dig it out. One guy put it this way, “Cory wasn’t management or engineer material. He wouldn’t have been good as a mechanic or electrician and he never did a thing in producing a casting. But once he was gone, they found out he was one of the most important assets the company had.”

“If you’re alive, there’s a purpose for your life,” Rick Warren,

There was a time I knew God was going to use me in a great way to spread His love. When that didn’t happen, I became disillusioned and even walked away for a while. What was the use? After all, since none of my plans came to fruition, I decided God didn’t need my help. I mean I’m working in a foundry for Pete sake! It was years before I realized I was exactly where God wanted me to be. I wasn’t performing before large crowds and bringing the Word of God to thousands. But I was in a place to see individuals on a more personal level. Listen to their hurts, tell them what Christ had done for me, and quite often pray with them. This is called planting seeds. I might have a small chance to tell of my Lord to someone, but another may reach them with their need for a Savior. Like Cory, Christians need to realize everything you do for God is important no matter how small it may seem to others. Who knows, you just might be the one to keep the process moving.

They shut down that old molding line and put a new one in its place, better engineered so it wouldn’t leak sand as bad. As for Cory, well I lost contact with this “Traveler of the Rock Road” after he quit. But often I think of the man who would have more dirt on his body than in a flower garden. And once in a while I mentally say, “Thanks Cory, for being such an example to me. I only hope I’m half the worker you were. Both physically, and spiritually.

Colossians 3:23-24 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

See ya next time.

I was privileged to spend a portion of Father’s Day weekend in Chicago with my two sons, Jeremy and Justin and their families. It was so much fun being with the boys since they live in different cities and I don’t see them often. But what makes it special is that we can pick up as if no time has passed as we share some of the old times as well as new. On the return trip I thought about how much I enjoyed being with my boys. Seems like only yesterday they as well as their sister, Jamie were little people waiting to greet me when I got home from work. My, how it seems like the time just went too fast. I truly miss those days.

I imagine some of these feelings come from the lack of a father in my own life. As a young child I would question why didn’t I have a dad, and if I did have one where was he? It wasn’t until being nearly grown that I learned the truth; Howard (that was his name) was only interested in having relations with my mom, but not a relationship, and certainly not with a child either. A person would see that as a sad scenario, but by then it really didn’t bother me. Perhaps it’s best described as what an individual would say about not having an arm or other regular part of the body; it would be nice to have but since you never had an arm it doesn’t bother you as much and you learn to make the best without. So, if dear old dad didn’t want to be there for me that was fine, I could get along very well without him.  At least that’s how I felt up until Dec. 31, 1979, the birth date of our daughter followed in later years by her brothers. Not having a male role model to emulate was now pressing on me as I worried about making mistakes in my new role as dad.

Thankfully, the insight of my Lady pointed me to the fact that I did have a role model, a Father who was with me always and whether I realized it or not was preparing me for the day little ones would look to me for guidance and love. From my Heavenly Father I learned I needed to be a teacher (Proverbs 22:6), plant in them the important things of life (2Cor. 3:2-3), show compassion (Psalm 103:13),  pray for my children like David did (1 Chronicles 29:19) and never give up on them, just like the father of the prodigal son didn’t (Luke 15:20-24).

Yes, I didn’t have an earthly father to show me the ropes, but I have to be thankful for him giving me life, that I may learn from my Heavenly Father. “Hey Howie, whether you know it not, ya did good; you ought to see your awesome grand and great grandkids!!”

So, did I do things right? Yes. Did I make mistakes? You betcha!! Would I want to do things over? And take a chance of missing the good that came out of the bad?  No way!

Without a doubt being a father isn’t easy, but is anything that’s worthwhile easy? Think about what God has to put up with as Dad to all of us; Whoa! But isn’t it great to know that He loves each of us as if we’re His one and only, and that love doesn’t end when we screw up? I mean how cool is that?!!

I’m not perfect and I don’t think they’d mind me saying neither are my kids. But I have a good example to pass on to them, a Father who leads me as I “Travel the Rock Road.” As He will them.

“Let me tell you a secret about a father’s love,

A secret that my daddy said was just between us.

He said, ‘Daddies don’t just love their children every now and then.

It’s a love without end, amen, it’s a love without end, amen.’”

See ya next time.

I once mentioned living in Kentucky for about a year when I was a child.  And for part of that time I lived with my mentor and favorite Great Aunt Pearl and her husband Price. We had an upstairs apartment in Prestonsburg, right above the upholstery shop where she worked. For some of my younger readers who don’t understand this type of business it was a place where someone would bring in an old couch or chair that was well worn. Some folks didn’t want to invest in new furniture so they would have their old piece redone instead. They would talk to my Pearly Mae, decide on what fabric they wanted, and then I would watch the little lady from West Virginia work her magic. First she would take a razor knife or sharp industrial scissors to strip it down; all that would be left was the wooden frame, and springs. She would then replace any springs that were wore out, sew new cushion covers and replace all the stuffing. She would sew new material on the armrests and sides. That was a slow process as she made every stich with a large needle that was rounded like a U. Then taking a small gauge rope she’d sew material around it and fasten it to the chair or sofa. It was fascinating to a young boy’s mind to see an old, wore down piece of furniture stripped down to its bare frame, and slowly but meticulously become a beautiful piece anyone would be proud to have in their home. Folks would return and look in astonishment, hardly believing it was the same piece they had brought her.

After we settled in Ohio, the occasion would occur where a car with unknown people would pull up asking to talk to Pearl. They had heard about her work and asked if she would redo something for them. Since we lived in a large home, she set one room aside to do her upholstering. The results were the same and people were so happy with what she did they’d pay her extra. I then asked her one day, “These people look like they could afford a new couch; why don’t they just buy one? In the patient way she always was with me, she explained, “Johnny, the couch is still a good, sturdy structure. It just needed someone to fix it up and give it a new look, new life.”

2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

When I gave my life to Christ, I didn’t stop being John Miller. But like Pearl’s upholstering made an item beautiful, God did the same for me. The exception was instead on the outer appearance, mine was an inner repair job–a new attitude, new perspective, new outlook, a new heart.  In the 47 years I have walked with the Lord, I have seen many in the same ragtag shape, only to be made new when they turned their lives over to the Great Designer.

Phillips Brooks, “You must learn, you must let God teach you, that the only way to get rid of your past is to make a future out of it. God will waste nothing.”

Oswald Chambers, “All of God’s people are ordinary people who have been made extraordinary by the purpose he has given them.”

Folks took a risk giving over they precious item so Pearl could strip it down to the bare wood, and restore it. Each time they would receive back their item more beautiful than they could have imagined. More prized than it was when it was new. When we truly turn our lives over to Christ, He takes us and makes us more precious than we once were. I’ll never pretend to be perfect, but I’m ever so thankful I’m not the old version of me.

My memory goes back to those days in the upholstery shop and I can see my Pearly Mae, this wonderful and talented “Traveler of the Rock Road” look on her finished product and smile at what she created. I know God does the same when He looks upon me, and anyone of you who who allow His restoration of newness into your life.

Awesome!!

See ya next time.

There was a time I was privileged to head up a youth football program. It was quite a learning experience and I loved being around the kids. They were great to work with. A few of the parents? Well, that could be an experience also; a trying one at that. Seems there were some that took what we were doing too seriously with a win at all cost attitude. Our league was set upon two principles; fun and fundamentals. Teach these young players the basics of the game; instill in them an understanding of what their job was on the field. And for goodness sakes, make it fun! If a kid isn’t enjoying the learning process, or if they’re spending more time watching from the sidelines than playing, you can pretty well bet they won’t stay with the game. So, we expected our coaches to take a personal involvement with the players, get to know the kids on the team, plan a fun activity with them, and mostly, make sure everyone gets to play at least half a game. If I might brag a bit, it was that philosophy that made us one of the biggest and most popular leagues of its kind in the state.

There was a certain team and coach that drew my attention one season. They had numerous talented and athletic kids on the roster, and the coach was a fitness buff and former standout in sports during his school years. So, I couldn’t understand why they hadn’t won a game in five attempts. Going to the coach, I asked him if there was anything the board could do to help him. Rather exasperated, he informed me that the kids just couldn’t catch on to the game and he didn’t know what to do. Watching them, it did seemed like they were rather unorganized when they were on the field. I urged him to keep trying and I was sure they’d come together. He gave me a look that said “Who are you kidding?”

It was a day later that the coach was in a serious but not life threating car accident. He would make a full recovery, but was going to be laid up for some time. Being short handed of personnel and with only one game left in the season, I said I would take the team. I went to see the coach in the hospital and he gave me his play book. The blessed thing was nearly as thick as an old Sear’s Christmas catalog! No wonder the kids were having a tough time understanding; I couldn’t wrap my head around half the plays. Needless to say, at my first practice with the boys, I left the playbook in the car and we spent the entire time working on two fundamentals–blocking and tackling. The next session we did the same being sure they understood proper execution. On the day of the game we met an hour ahead of time to work on offensive plays. Three! We ran over those plays so much the boys started getting bored. That is until game time. On defense, they held their opponent to under 20 yards with no first downs. And on offense, we scored five times! Parents, the opposing team and even the kids themselves couldn’t believe what was happening. I could, thanks to using a technique a veteran coach had taught me. K.I.B.B.

All of us know what K.I.S.S. stands for: “Keep It Simple Stupid.” But I chose to use my friend’s system. “Keep It Basic Brother.” They’re almost the same with the exception being to work on the fundamentals long and hard to where they become a part of you. You know exactly how you are to execute. And friend, when you get that point, you’re hard to beat. Rob Lytle who I featured two weeks ago played at Michigan University and the Denver Broncos used to say “Practice doesn’t make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect!”

There was a time I tried to use every bit of my theological training to tell someone of Christ. And the many times I would do nothing more than confuse the individual on what I was trying to say. But by using the K.I.B.B. process, I was able to get across the message of the Gospel.  That can be summed up tonight in two verses.

John 3:16,17 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.”

Now just like learning the basics of football, you add more plays as your understanding grows. In Christ, there’s so much to know of what He has planned for you. But first, lets learn the basics. His love for us is so immense that He gave the ultimate sacrifice, that we may be with Him someday in heaven. That’s the basics, those are the fundamental. Then grow in faith, hope and strength.

2 Timothy 1:12 “That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.”

As we all “Travel the Rock Road,” we meet with challenges, even defeats that at times make us want to stop, give up. For me I’ve stumbled often. But I always go back to the basics. God loves me, He never leaves me, and when my days are over, He’s there waiting for me to finish perhaps with these words. “Well done, Good and Faithful Servant.” I knew you could make it. You kept with the basics.

See ya next time.

We recently went to see our community theater’s production of “Our Town,” a play set at the start of the 20^th century about a fictitious town and the residents that lived there. It chronicles the lives of two youngsters, George Gibb and Emily Webb. In the 1st act we see them as children living next door to each other. In the 2nd act, they are young adults who fall in love and marry. Tragically, in the 3rd act, young Emily dies during childbirth. There’s much more to the story but I don’t want to give it away in case you get the chance to see it someday. Actually, this was the 2^nd time I had seen this performance.

Back in school days, before the love of my life came on the scene, I was smitten by a short little cutie that had been in one of my classes. She was a happy sort whose smile could melt the coldest heart and make you happy just to be in her presence. I felt very lucky that a girl like her would give a guy like me even a look. I was the complete opposite; dark in attitude, sulky, and not overly kind during that stage of life. But being with her brought me happiness and that’s all that counted. That is, until the day she told me our relationship needed to end. I was devastated and even more, angry. How could she do that to me? Didn’t she know how much she meant to me? I took a hard line toward her; she who possessed a tad more maturity than I did (Okay, a truckload more!) took more of a friendly approach to our breaking up. She would speak but I would just give short glib responses. On one occasion she told about getting the lead in the school play, “Our Town.” Telling her that was nice and wishing her well, I walked on giving her the impression there was no way in the world I was going to come see it. As far as she knew I didn’t, since she couldn’t see me sitting toward the back of the auditorium. When I left my thought was, “Well, she’s a good actress.” It was a bit hard for my feeble mind to follow with being few props on the stage, but she and the rest of the actors really brought the play to life and I must say I enjoyed it. I thought about telling her she did a great job, but deciding to leave well enough alone, I didn’t. Except for a couple brief run-ins, I never saw her again, although I have wondered about how she’s doing as the years have dragged on.

Now, some 45 years later I’m taking in the play once again. With a better attitude along with a few more brain cells activated than previous days, I thoroughly enjoyed and understood the production better. A thought occurred to me. Perhaps my childhood crush was trying to get me to see her in a way I never had before. I enjoyed having her around for the way she made me feel, but truthfully, I couldn’t remember when I did the same for her. The heart, sensitivity, talents, likes and dislikes that made her who she was totally escaped me. All because I was too wrapped up in my own wants and desires. I missed the pure beauty of this amazing gal.

I came across this quote; “Never take someone for granted, hold every person close to your Heart because you might wake up one day and realize that you’ve lost a diamond while you were busy collecting stones.”

I’ve told young men including my sons don’t just look to how a young lady makes you feel, remember to take in to consideration how she feels; in other words, if she makes you feel special then you make her feel the same way. It’s saddened to see how many marriages have failed because the man didn’t pursue the needs of his wife.

In the Christian life, many of us do the same thing to the One we call Lord. He loved us so much that He gave the ultimate sacrifice that we might be with Him in heaven someday. We often shirk time spent with God in prayer, reading of the Word, and doing things to show how we love Him.

Romans 6:1-2, “Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of His wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?”

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

God’s love for each of us is so strong, shouldn’t we do our best to give back love the best we can.

As mentioned, I haven’t seen this cute little “Traveler of the Rock Road” since those youthful days, but I did hear she found someone who appreciated her and like myself has had a long and wonderful marriage. That in itself makes my heart glad. And I suppose that if I ever did see her again, I would apologize for being a jerk and for not seeing how special she was. Perhaps I also need to thank her for planting a small seed in me that helped in loving the Lady God blessed me with the way I should.

Even if the moment never comes.

Thank you, Miss Emily.

See ya next time.

On one occasion when I was traveling with the band, we happened to stop in my adopted hometown of Fremont, Ohio to do a little shopping for necessities before returning to the road. While in the store I noticed a familiar face. She was the mother of a classmate from school that I thought highly of.  A woman from England that had moved to America with her husband and daughter years prior to start a new life. My memory went back to a time I stopped by their house to visit the daughter, but she wasn’t home. Still this grand lady insisted I come in for minute to sit and talk. Most likely I did not make good conversation, but that didn’t matter. I found joy in her company, listening to her elegant British accent as she spoke on a number of topics and all the while wearing a smile that beamed from her face constantly. I thought of walking up to her to say hello, but the years had passed and I had changed quite a bit since we last met and I was sure she wouldn’t know who I was so I chose to stay with my band members and leave well enough alone. A couple of aisles later I saw her again and to my amazement she did remember me. With the same charm and the beaming smile she took time to make conversation not only to me but with the other guys with me. We must have been quite a sight, 6 long haired guys badly in need of showers making chat with this graceful Lady who treated us like old family or friends. As she spoke directly to all of us in her prim and proper manner, we must have looked like a group of overgrown schoolkids smiling back as we hung on her every word. When our time ended, she urged that I stop by the next time I was in town; an invitation she extended to the others also.

We loaded into our van and as we got back on the road one of guys said to me, “What a nice lady; you must know her well to spend the time with us.” Truthfully, I only met her a handful of times.” That came as a surprise to the others. Another spoke up, “Well one thing is for certain, whoever calls her Mother must feel lucky.” Actually, there were three that called her mom. And I don’t believe they’d say they were lucky, but blessed!

The dear “Traveler of the Rock Road” never asked how was I or what was I doing now. It wasn’t that she had no concern for things such as that. She set to the task of letting me know she knew who I was and was so delighted our paths had crossed. I believe she wanted me to feel special, to feel accepted by her. Many I know tell me they don’t want anything to do with God because they know He doesn’t want anything to do with them, especially not the person they are. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Ron Lambros puts it this way, “Why do so many of us struggle with the fact that God loves us unconditionally, and that no matter how good or bad we are, He’ll never stop loving us? God is the only One who never gives up on us, never abandons us, never forgets about us or ceases to care about us. We can never go anywhere without His merciful and compassionate pursuit. Think you’re unlovable and that nobody cares about you? Pause, and always remember that God does and He always will!”

This takes us to one of my favorite passages in the Bible. Romans 8:38-39, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

I have this picture in my mind that if I was to meet Jesus like the wonderful encounter I had with my friend’s mother, He would act in the same way. He wouldn’t ask me what I was doing with my life (Afterall, He knows that anyway.) He wouldn’t chastise me for mistakes I had made. Like this British Belle, I feel He would greet me with a smile, a hug and words letting me know how good it is to see me. That’s the love He has for each of us. To use another quote I like by Max Lucado, “If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning… Face it, friend. He is crazy about you!”

To the daughters of this Grand Lady, Bev, Anita and Ali, thank you so much for sharing your incredible, loving and marvelous mother with so many of us that she truly blessed with her ways and her smile.

To the ones who don’t think God could love them, why not go to Him today. He would be so excited to hear from you! Start by meeting Him at John 3:16.

See ya next time!

In early June of 1973 I had just graduated high school by the skin of my teeth and I was more than ready to move on. I now concentrated on the future which included getting married that November and possibly continuing my education at some college. I was back at my high school picking up material I would need when applying to colleges. Sitting in the lobby I noticed someone else there; a person I knew better from his reputation than I did during our school days.

Rob was a complete opposite of myself, he was popular, well known, involved in many activities, one tremendous athlete, especially in football. Me, I kept a low profile and seldom even went to any school functions. In my senior year I only had to go half days, then it would be off to work, seeing my girlfriend or hanging with a group of guys in the music field that were older. So, I didn’t feel a connection to my school peers. And truthfully, I felt a bit intimidated around ones such as Rob. Even though I didn’t really know him, he and the clique, as we called them back then, seemed to have an air that put them a little higher than ones like me, so I just avoided he and this group as much as I could. Now we found ourselves sitting together, alone. I probably jumped a little when he spoke to me. “Hey Miller, what are you going to be doing now?” Now how on earth did he know my name? I fumbled words around a bit then gave him a brief rundown of my plans. I then asked him a question that brought a look that made me wonder, am I in trouble here? “So, what are you going to be doing?” Rob’s eyes got wide and his stare seem to say, “Are you being serious?” I knew Rob was a great football running back, but really didn’t have any idea how good he was. His senior year on the gridiron was a tremendous one earning him many accolades including making the Ohio All-State Team. He was highly recruited by several major colleges offering scholarships and opting for Michigan University. Every news source in the region carried the story of Rob’s selection and signing. TV, radio, newspaper and probably the majority of the folks in our community were talking about him. Now he was face to face with maybe the only person who didn’t know, and I think he wondered if I was pulling is leg. But it was no joke, I didn’t have the slightest idea. That year a friend and I shared a small house where we didn’t have a television or radio; only an old stereo to turn records. As mentioned, I stayed away from most at the school and only attended classes enough to graduate. The few friends I did hang with weren’t sports enthusiasts, so I was totally oblivious to what was going on with Rob. When he realized I wasn’t kidding with him, Rob’s demeanor relaxed and he told me his plans, to which I told him that was awesome and wished him well. That would be the last time I would see or even think of him until four years later.

Moving to Indiana the next year, I found myself living among many Hoosier fans. In the Fall of ‘76 I was invited to join some of my new friends to watch I.U. play Michigan on TV. I told them how I went to high school with Rob and one spoke up. “Yeah, we know all about him, but he’s the only weapon they have in their offense. My little brother plays on defense and he and the rest are going to key on Rob every play. He won’t run loose today.” “Okay well good luck,” I answered. It wasn’t long before Rob scored his first touchdown.  Later he did it again. And then again. And then, again. That day Rob did something few had ever done in college football; scored four times in a game. The room was rather quiet by the end, and I just sat there, with a small grin. For some reason I was never invited back. Go figure! After that day I followed Rob’s career as he set a rushing record at Michigan, made the College Football All-America Team and finished 3^rd for the coveted Heisman Trophy. I remember telling someone, “I should have paid more attention to this guy in school; didn’t realize what incredible talents he possessed.”

When injuries cut his pro-football career short, he returned to Ohio with his family and he naturally became somewhat of a hometown hero. During visits back to Fremont, I would see where Rob was involved with some organization for the betterment of the community and its people. Speaking to ones who knew him well, I realized there was something more to him than his abilities with a football. I heard stories of how he was a leader, motivator and exceptionally compassionate to folks and animals alike. And the stories I enjoyed hearing the most were the love he held tightly to for his Lady and children. Later, I remember thinking to myself, “Wow I should have paid more attention to this guy; didn’t realize what an incredible heart he possessed.”

“You may gaze upon a building from the outside and not be impressed. But if you do not look on the inside you just may miss the true beauty of the structure.” J. David Mill.

In my shallowness of youth, I saw Rob as someone different, with different priorities than mine; and I kept my distance. Had I allowed myself to know the man, I would have discovered someone not only with a passion for football but a heart for people and life. Over the years I’ve learned we all can be guilty of bias toward an individual or group. But for the ones who call themselves Christians that should be the farthest characteristic in your life. One of the most convicting messages on this subject was spoken by Jesus in Matthew 7:1-5. Since this is running long tonight, I’m going to leave it to you to look up. But if the God of the universe can look upon each of us with love and He knows our shortcomings, shouldn’t we try to emulate the same attitude toward everyone we meet. Hey, judging others kept this man from getting to really know some pretty awesome people! As one writer put it, “Jesus doesn’t care how many Bible verses you know, He cares how you treat people.” Amen?

Sadly, Rob passed away from a heart attack some years back. But this “Traveler of the Rock Road” left an indelible mark on many. A building back home dedicated to helping ones with disabilities is named in his honor. He was inducted posthumously into the College Football Hall of Fame. I’m sure there are other accolades to honor the life of Rob Lytle, but I believe his greatest dedication is the gift he gave to others; himself. Many are the ones who can testify to the loving and caring way he touched their lives. Especially his beloved Lady and family.

“It’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you. It’s what you leave behind when you go.” Randy Travis.

A quick side note, Rob’s son wrote a book, “To Dad from Kelly.” I highly recommend you purchase and read.

See ya next time.

Had an unusual occurrence the other day. While I was in a store here in my town, I had to make use of the men’s room. When I entered, I almost tripped over a mobile cart that was backed halfway into a stall. This elderly gentleman had driven it in and then getting as close he could used it support himself as he stood to use the facility. I smiled and thought, well that’s rather clever; he must be able to maneuver that bad boy pretty well to pull off this stunt. When I got ready to leave, I noticed the man was having difficulty getting turned around and back on the cart. Two others who were at the sinks noticed also. One smiled while the other shook his head and walked out. Admittedly, I confess I started out the door also when the thought flooded my mind, “Miller, what are you doing?! He’s probably 20 years your senior, but that could be you some day. Get over there and help!” This guy was wedged in there so tight, and I could tell his legs did not work well, he couldn’t get turned around to get reseated. I was at a loss what to do. I could go get my reciprocating saw and cut the wall of stall down but I didn’t think the store would look upon that too kindly. Another man about my age came in and saw the dilemma so he offered to help. Between us we were able to get the cart out far enough that one of us could grab him and help him back on. That was a task in itself seeing the brother could hardly move or bend his knees. Several minutes passed, but we finally got him back on. Good! Except, he might have gotten that supermarket dune buggy in there but didn’t have enough turning radius to get it out. So, with the help of my comrade in toilet rescue, we physically manhandled the cart and rider around three tight corners until he had a clear path and was able to shoot out the door where his concerned wife was waiting.  Sheesh! One thing was for sure my BP meds got a workout. Who needs the Y, just hire yourself out for emergency bathroom extractions! My new friend in this endeavor was covered with as much sweat as I had so we retreated back into the restroom to clean up a bit.  When I caught my breath and was heading out of the store a new thought came. “What are you, nuts! Why didn’t you go get some of the store personnel to do this? Afterall they’re younger and it’s their job anyway.” I like to think I’m the same man I was years back, but age and medical issues have slowed me down. Oh well, it’s over and I didn’t flatline so no big deal.

Leaving the store, I saw the wife and a younger woman loading the gentleman into a van. “Need any help?” They said they had him and thanked me. Then the wife told the other gal, who I found out was the daughter, that I was the one who helped in the restroom. Immediately she came over and gave a big hug. I assured her it was no problem, but then she said, “I don’t know how many times we had situations where father needed help, and people just kept walking. Thank you and God bless you.” With a smile I told her, “I believe He just did.” Driving home a new thought was whispering in my ear, a phrase I heard in the past. “If not me then who? If not now than when?”

“It is the understanding of others and the awareness of their needs, that the ambassador of CHRIST should strive to cultivate.” Larry Crabb

Now as I’ve said in the past, please don’t take this as blowing my own horn. I’m not anything special and in this case didn’t do anything that most of you have done. But as a Christian, I am fervently convinced that we should put forth an effort to show grace and mercy to others, just as Jesus did for us.

Philippians 2:4 “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Hebrews 13:16 “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

The chances of this latest “Traveler of the Rock Road” ever crossing my path again is slim. Well, least I hope not, not sure I could pry him out twice! But I don’t believe in coincidences especially when it comes to something like this. This ole boy was in trouble so God placed me and my friend there at the right time. May we all be ready and willing to serve when opportunity arises to help others.

Matthew 25:40 And the King will answer them, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, my brothers, you did it to me.”

Thanks for reading.

See ya next time.