Traveling the Rock Road

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.

Let me be straight forward, I love Facebook! I know all the problems there have been with this social media outlet, but it has given me opportunity to reconnect with friends and family, some I haven’t seen or heard from in years. I love to see where they’re at now, what they’ve done, how many children and grandchildren they have. I also enjoy new friends I have made and how we can interact as if we known each other for years. But I suppose what I love to the most is this gives me an avenue to tell about my Lord and Savior. As I say I’m not a religion man, but one of faith. And through that faith I have found something I believe is so wonderful, so awesome, that I just want to share it with others.

Now I not only talk about my Lord, but I love to brag on my family and post pictures of them. I also like putting something with a bit of light-heartedness and humor in it. My thinking is it brought a smile or chuckle to me, so maybe it’ll do the same for others. Once in a while I’ll come across something a bit philosophical in nature that touches me so I may post that as well. One such item was quite a surprise to me by the amount of reaction I had to it. It showed a picture of Eeyore, the constantly sad little donkey from HH Milne’s books Winnie the Pooh. The post points out that although Eeyore was always gloomy, or as the writer of this describes him, clinically depressed, his friends are always there for him. Even though they are aware of his Gloomy Gus persona, they never leave him out of their plans. The small article is summed up with these words, “They just show him love.” This little clip touched my heart because I know ones with “Eeyore Syndrome” so I posted it and wasn’t surprised when someone shared it and then another, and another. My surprise came when it was shared over 100 times. Then 200, 300, and now very close to 400 as I write.  So, then the question came, what is it that struck a nerve with so many? I imagine there’s numerous reasons why, some with the same purpose I had. But I also wondered, how many could relate to Eeyore, how many wished they had the support of friends as in this wonderfully mastered work of writing, but still fiction?

I read a quote that went like this; “When you’re surrounded by all these people, it can be lonelier than when you’re by yourself. You can be in a huge crowd, but if you don’t feel like you can trust anyone or talk to anybody, you feel like you’re really alone.” In this modern world we live in there seems to be a growing epidemic of depression, sadly I know of many. But one did tell me “I just wish more people would stop asking me how I’m doing and start asking me out to dinner or something. I think that would be a lot of help.”

As a Christian this tears at my heart because I know that my Lord does not want to see any of us in this situation. Psalm 34:17 “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.”  Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

So, I’m left to wonder that if all who profess Christ (since in my opinion we should be leading the charge anyway!) would reach out to our fellow “Traveler’s of the Rock Road” not with solutions, advice, or so-called answers to their problems, but with friendship, support, and most of all love, how many like Eeyore we could reach.

I think I’ll just leave it there for now, but end with a little prayer.

Lord, help us see and approach the Eeyores around us, and give us the heart of Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin. Amen.

See ya next time.

I have a friend who spent a number of years as a missionary in the Central African Republic. He wasn’t what many would consider to be a typical missionary, leading church services and such to the people there. He was a mechanic and he came to be a help to others there that were working to provide better lives for villagers, such as digging wells. He worked tirelessly to keep trucks and equipment running with the aid of several men native to the region. My friend told me many fascinating stories from his years in the C.A.R., but one particular account has stuck with me and made a conviction in my heart since.

One year this friend contracted a virus that made him miserably ill. At one time this most likely would have taken his life, but with advancements in medicine he would recover though the only thing he could do for the time being was lay in his bed and be miserable. One of the men that worked for him came to his house. He wasn’t there to offer anything to ease his suffering and he made no conversation since all my friend could do was lay on his bed and moan from pain. He just sat in a chair next to the bed for the entire day. It was a custom there when someone was gravely ill another would come and sit with them, I’m assuming to let them know they were not alone and that there were ones who cared. He couldn’t do a thing to stop the pain so he did the next best thing, be there. Perhaps simply a ritual to this man, but to me it spoke volumes of what God intended for all of us.

Someone wrote a modern-day parable that goes like this: “Sometimes we need someone to simply be there, not to fix anything or do anything in particular, but just to let us feel we are supported and cared about.” I’ve heard it said Christians fall down when it comes to caring for others like they should. And to be truthful many of us are guilty of not displaying enough compassion to others. But what if not only Believers but all would take a little extra effort to let someone know they are cared for, they are loved? But on the subject of Believers, Christ was certainly straight to the point of how we should treat each other.

Mark 12:30-31 “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.”

John 15:12 “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

There was a time I felt I had little to offer to someone else, that is until my friend told me the story of the man who sat with him. The only thing he had to give was a caring heart for his brother.  And I don’t know anything more precious or valuable than that.

This last weekend I traveled a 300-mile roundtrip to see an old friend in the hospital. I had nothing to bring him and I wasn’t sure what words God would give me to say to him. That didn’t matter. It was the fact that I came and showed him I cared that was the important thing. Now please, don’t take that as blowing my own horn; I’ve said often I’m not anything special. But God laid it on my heart that I had to go see this old friend to let him know two things with my presence; God cares for him, and so do I.  Again, I emphasize that I don’t see what I did as any more than showing love for this individual. But as of yesterday, he had not walked in several weeks.  And today, I saw a picture of him standing and using a walker. At times our Lord sends healing by someone showing that they care.

Just sayin’.

See ya next time

I’ve explained on several occasions that I grew up not knowing my father. He was in Ma’s life for just a short instance, but the moment he knew I was on the way he slapped it in “B” for boogie and was gone. Early in my life it was hard, but I grew past a desire to have this man in my life. Then one day in the early 80s I received two pieces of news that caught me by surprise. The first was my father suffered a heart attack and passed away. It saddened me a bit that we never got to meet but I was okay. The 2^nd revelation however was more surprising. I found out I had a half-brother that wanted to meet me. Matt was 8 years older and like me, grew up without the old man in his life. The day after the revelation of a sibling, we spoke on the phone and it was truly an enjoyable conversation. We spoke of our childhood days and what interests we had in common. I could feel excitement growing inside me. To think how lonely I’d felt at times during my youth being an only child, and now I could say I have a brother!

Several days later we were having coffee, face to face, in his kitchen. We laughed, talked about our families and careers plus exchanged pictures. I think I smiled the entire return trip home. This was more awesome than anything I ever experienced. There was going to be new plans to make, outings, holiday get togethers, family portraits, everything that others experienced I was now going to be a part of. But as we know, dreams don’t always measure up to reality.

It wasn’t long before we came to realize that even though we shared a mutual bloodline our personalities and overall attitudes were polar opposites. I was pretty laid back and seldom got upset. Matt, on the other hand, began to show he was very sober minded, didn’t care for much joking around, and probably the worse was he’d question what you meant when you something that he might take wrong. The get togethers became less as well as phone calls until finally all communication ceased. For a time, I questioned if I had done or said something that I needed to make right. But the truth of matter was this. Yes, blood made us brothers, but it couldn’t make us friends.  There were just too many differences us.

I found a quote that goes like this. “Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people in your life who want you in theirs. The ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile, and who love you no matter what.” Even though I had a large hole in my life from the lack of family, God filled that gap with people who became as close as family, if not more. There are several that I know that all I have to do is pick up the phone, and they’re there for me. And it doesn’t even have to be important, anything including just to hear a voice that knows me, that loves me just the way I am. That my friend, is family.

As a Christian I also have a family in Christ Jesus. The Bible is clear that even though each of us are completely different as individuals, we make up the family of God who is called upon to love each other.

John 13:35 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Perhaps if Matt and I had been raised together things would have been different. I have two sons that are different as day and night, but they love each other and are best friends. I’m very proud of that by the way.

I think of Matt from time to time. Perhaps as fellow “Travelers of the Rock Road” our paths will cross again. But if not the best to you Older Brother. Remember, Millers Rule!!

See ya next time.

I think it’s safe to say that I didn’t waste any tears on waving 2018 goodbye; if any they were tears of joy that it’s finally behind me. No doubt my Lady and I faced more challenges and setbacks than what we’ve had in over 30 years. It’s really not the way any of us want to begin our Golden Years so to speak, but we met each moment head on and kept our sanity (for the most part) so to speak. Two motivational factors flooded my mind during our downturns. Enter the Good Lord and Pearly Mae.

The memory of the first house we bought in Ohio came back to me. It was an old place that needed a tremendous amount of work just for us to move into. All the windows had to be replaced, several walls had to be knocked out and rebuilt and the roof had to be totally redone. But the biggest selling point to my Aunt Pearl were the hardwood floors. They were filthy with several layers of dirt covering them, and when we cleaned off the soil and rubbish, the wood was marred with deep scratches. Pearl bought a floor sander and taking one room at a time she got the boards back where you could see the grain. Then came several coats of varnish that brought out the beauty of the flooring. As each room was finished my beloved Aunt would smile at the finished product, restored by countless hours of toil and elbow grease. She took so much pride in what had been accomplished.

Then came the year when the local river flooded; since we lived just a block away the authorities told us we would have to evacuate. The Red Cross had set up a shelter inside a large church where we stayed for several days. When we were finally allowed to return it wasn’t pretty. The basement was flooded and the water had reached several inches high on the first level. As we entered the structure, I could see the look of sadness on Pearl’s face. Her beautiful floors were covered with sand, garbage and a few dead fish. She walked room to room before sitting down at the dining room. And for the first time in my young life I saw the strongest woman I had ever known, cry. I wanted to cry with her! All the work she had done was now ruined and no one would have blamed her if she had put the house up for sale and left. But the moment the crying stopped, she shifted back into Super Pearly again. Grabbing brooms, dust pans and buckets we started cleaning up the mess taking the debris out one pail at a time. When the cleaning was complete, it was time to put the sander back into action, and then refinish each and every floor. It wasn’t as time consuming as the first but still it was labor intensive.  Once again, her beautiful floors were shining through the house. I remember one of the neighbors coming over and expressing how sad it was that Pearl had to do all that work twice. With her determined look she would often she answer, “You can give up, or you can get busy!”

In James 1:2-4 we read, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that becoming a Christian doesn’t mean life will be a walk through a flower garden. As I have named this blog it’s “Traveling the Rock Road,” it’s facing adversity just like everybody does; only difference is now you have God in the form of the Holy Spirit taking each step with you, never leaving or forsaking you. There are times I’m ready to run away in an attempt to leave my troubles behind. But we all know you can’t do that. So, I have to turn to my Heavenly Father for direction and peace.

Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

1 Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Philippians 4:13, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

It’s been a rough year, don’t know if this one will be any better; but I know I can meet all that comes my way. I was mentored by the strongest woman I ever knew, and I have the assurance that I’m not facing anything alone; my God is there for me.

Perhaps you’re at a breaking point and not sure what to do next. You don’t have to go it alone. The Maker of Heaven and Earth is there for you, every step of the way.

As the Lord and Pearly Mae both say, “You can give up, or you can get busy!”

I choose Option B.

See ya next time.