Traveling the Rock Road

The other evening, I was driving through our town district when I spotted an elderly man walking quite slowly, one hand gripping a stick to help him along and the other gripping a backpack. Only a few seconds passed when something inside me said go back and help that man. Now I don’t stop for strangers like I did some 30 years ago, but this feeling of needing to go back and see if I could help wouldn’t go away. Circling the block, he hadn’t made much progress from the last place I saw him, and he was more than happy to have a ride. Climbing in the car proved to be a task as his one leg would barely bend, but after several minutes he was seated and we were on our way. It was less than a mile to his destination but I’m sure to him it must have felt like a hundred. The drive didn’t take long but he asked if he could just sit for a spell, and of course he did. At a point like this I generally strike up a conversation to see where it takes me with an individual. I didn’t get the chance! As we sat there he began telling me where he was raised, what college he went to, jobs he had worked, states he lived in and the wives he took over the course of a lifetime, losing everything to an addiction to alcohol. I can’t count the number of ones I’ve met with the same story. After a while you pick up an ability to know when someone is feeding you a line in hopes of getting a bit of charity. But then there’s the occasion you actually run into an individual who’s being legitimate. I could tell this man and his saga were real from two perspectives.  First, he was quite detailed in all that he told me; deceivers usually give a surface detail of their exploits.  The second reason I believed him though was even more compelling. I’ve picked up scores of down-on-their luck sojourners over the years and they always hit me up for some change or a few dollars. This individual did not ask for anything; all he was interested in was sitting there and having someone to talk to.  I have to admit, I really didn’t want to be sitting there so long; I wanted to get home. But the more he talked the more I realized what he needed most at that time was someone just to listen to his story, allow him to regale the high points of his life as well the downfalls. When he finished I took that as my cue to tell him about the love of Jesus. But I didn’t get the chance because he started telling me!! My new friend had made many a wrong turn on his journey through life, but then finally reached the point where he came face to face with grace, mercy, and forgiveness that comes though the knowledge of Jesus as Savior. And any person who was willing to listen to his story was going to hear the good, bad and the glorious of his “Travels of the Rock Road.” Bam!!

This is where I usually have a quote from a famous author, but today the only Author I want to share is one that spoke to my heart and told me to give a ride to that man. And I believe God orchestrated this moment not only for this Brother, but for me. By giving him a ride, I was able to ease a little of his pain, but even more I gave him the opportunity to share himself and Jesus with another. As for me, well I think God was showing me you never know who is out there planting a seed in his Name.

Two verses did come to mind though. Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Proverbs 19:20, “Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may eventually become wise.”

“Lord, thank you for sending someone to make me a little wiser.”

After a short struggle in commanding his legs to carry him, he departed my car and disappeared into a building. And as I watched him I was reminded of a song written by my dear friend Don Swanger that goes like this.

“A lone and weary traveler comes walking down the road, in his pack he had a Bible and some food.  Rides are hard to get these days but he’ll be picked up soon, by that sweet Resurrection Train for Home.”

‘Nuf said. Thanks for listening to the best thing that happened to me last week.

See ya next time.

Last year my heart was saddened to hear of the passing of an old friend. Speaking to his wife and other family members, they dearly missed this man but were relieved he was no longer in pain. Tom was a large figure of a man with arms bulging with muscles. In his younger days he had been a Marine serving his country in the Viet Nam War. At the completion of his tour, he came home, married his high school sweetheart and they had four beautiful children. Tom was in the construction field and all his life he worked hard to meet the needs of his family. Even though he often worked long hours, Tom would always make time for his loved ones even if it meant going with little sleep, and they loved him dearly for all he did. He was always a joyful sort, smiling and cracking jokes with everyone, and he never knew a stranger. He would go out of his way to make people comfortable especially new young men he’d work with and teach the carpentry trade. The time came when Tom retired; he and his beautiful Lady moved to Florida to live in warm weather and enjoy his love of fishing year-round. Yes, life was good for my large friend.

One day Tom noticed his legs were feeling weak and found it difficult to even stand. Going to the doctor he was diagnosed with a muscular degenerative disease and with no cure would only get worse. Friends and family came to see Tom at his home. Even though he was confined to a wheelchair his cheerful attitude never faltered, laughing, telling jokes and stories with all who visited. Everyone would say he cheered them up more than they did him.

In time this dreaded illness robbed Tom of all his motor skills. He could no longer move any portion of his body, then his speech was gone. Finally, his only sign of life was diminished to a blank stare. Doctors told his wife Tom’s mind was being erased to where he would no longer able to recognize anyone as his conditioned deteriorated. The only thing she could do was wait for the end to come.

It was clear sunny morning. Tom’s wife sitting at his bedside along with a friend who was there to keep her company. As they made small talk the friend asked how Tom proposed to her some fifty years ago. With a smile she proceeded to tell how Tom came home right before being shipped to Nam and they went out to their favorite burger shop, then a movie at the local drive-in. At the end of the night they took a walk around her neighborhood. When they reached her house, Tom walked her up on the porch; he then got down on one knee, held out an engagement ring and asked her to marry him. She then giggled a little as she remembered he had to put a handkerchief down first not to get his dress blues dirty when he knelt down on his knee. After they both shared some more about that precious moment the friend looked over and Tom and her eyes became wide. “Look!” she exclaimed. In wide-eyed wonder the gals stared intently on Tom’s nearly lifeless body. And there, coming from one eye. A small tear. Tom could hear them, and he remembered. A few moments later he drew his last breath. Tom’s “Travels of the Rock Road” were complete.

Revelation 21:4: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

One thing I had neglected to tell you until now is Tom had given his life to Jesus years ago. As much as he loved his family and friends, he loved his Savior even more. That’s where he put all his faith, all his trust. This was the reason he did not fear death and would be so cheery during his last days of coherency. It’s also the reason that even though his family was losing this wonderful man they loved, they confidently believed he would be with them one day again.

Of course, we have no way of knowing what brought on the tear that day; I’m sure there are numerous medical reasons experts can point to. But his Lady feels it wasn’t pain or sadness, it was Tom hearing her words of how their lives started together, and it brought him joy. That was his way of saying “I remember that wonderful moment. Now I’m going to Home to Jesus, I’ll see you there.

John 14:2 “In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?”

“My Home is in Heaven. I’m just passing through this world.” Billy Graham. And Tom.
Even though I miss talking to my friend, I am so happy for Tom because I know he is happier than he has ever been in his life.

I’m going to end this story with the verse I used prior, because that’s what Tom would want.

Revelation 21:4: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Look forward to when I see you again, Big Man, my Brother.

See ya next time.

Back in the 80s I got to know a talented guitarist who was playing a in a band known as one of the tops in their particular style of music. I loved to watch how he made difficult guitar riffs look easy and how you could see the joy he had performing his skills. When the opportunity came for me to meet him, I jumped at it. What a thrill to sit down over coffee with this artist and pick his brain on what it took to make it to the level he had in the music industry. But the story he shared with me on how he almost quit playing entirely became more interesting.

Early in is career he had worked with a lower level band like most trying to make it to the big time. His skills weren’t as crafted as they were now, but he loved playing and performing even if it was for only a small audience and looked forward to every gig. The band finally got its foot in the door as the opening performance for a well-known group that was going on tour. My friend was so excited about this opportunity he hardly slept most nights. Then several days before he was to leave, the group leader called to tell him he wouldn’t be going. They were replacing him with a better guitarist. Did that ever hit home! That same thing happened to me and the hurt and anger was so fierce in me I nearly destroyed my drum set. But even though he felt devastated he didn’t have a desire to tear up thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment. Talking it over with his wife, he felt the best thing to do was stop chasing the gold ring of the music industry; just get out and sell everything.

Several days after he listed his equipment for sale at a local music store, he got a call from a guy wanting to know why he was selling an expensive guitar for half its worth and could he come and look at it. Explaining he was giving up music and wanted to sell quick, the gentleman on the other end of the line agreed he would come to his house in an hour to look at it. Imagine the look on my friend’s face when he opened the door and there stood one of his music idols. After a lot of stammering and nearly shaking this icon’s arm off, he brought out the guitar.

In my friend’s words, “When he started playing my guitar my wife and I just stood there with smiles and in complete awe. We were getting a private concert from one that most people paid a good amount to hear. He was doing moves and riffs up and down the neck I only dreamed of doing. All the more affirmation that I wasn’t good enough to be in the industry. When he finished inspecting the guitar he asked why I was quitting so I told him. He handed the guitar back to me and said let me hear you play something, so I whipped through a couple of songs I did with the band. He went out the door saying he’s be right back and shortly returned carrying a guitar case. For the next two hours we sat at my kitchen table playing together with him showing better ways to play. Afterwards we agreed to get together so I could learn more from him. He would come to our house or we’d meet at his place for dinner with his wife. For about a year’s time we met at least once a month and I’d practice constantly what he taught me. He became my musical mentor, friend, and then my spiritual counselor when he told me of the love of Jesus and I accepted him into my heart. One day he called and asked me to come over for dinner but don’t bring my guitar, there was something he wanted to talk to me about. When we got there, he told how he was going out on the biggest tour he had ever done and we were excited for him. I might have lost consciousness for a just a moment with his next words, I want you to come along as my 2^nd guitarist.  Here this guy had taught me to be a better musician, a better man, and what it meant to be a Christian and not just a religious person, and now he was putting icing on an already delicious cake!”

D.L. Moody:  “We are told to let our light shine, and if it does, we won’t need to tell anybody it does. Lighthouses don’t fire cannons to call attention to their shining–they just shine.”

By just starting out with being a friend, one “Traveler of the Rock Road” helped another not to give up on himself, to see that his best talents still hadn’t come out and let him know how special God saw him. How often do we have the chance to help others but we don’t want to take the time or get involved? Hey, I’m just as guilty as anyone! But just take a moment to consider maybe, just maybe, God put some individual in your path for the purpose of “you” being a friend, a mentor, a light to that individual. Just a thought.

Matthew 5:14-16 – “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.”

My friend doesn’t play professional music anymore, but is retired and works on what he calls his hobby farm. But I’m told he always has a young person he’s mentoring in music, life, and the love of Jesus. Now where did he ever get the idea to do something like that?!!

See ya next time.

As many of you know I have a strong passion for music; it was the one area that I seemed to have some ability from a young age. But ones who knew me best must have wondered sometimes if I really enjoyed it. I was very critical of my performance, coming away from concerts frustrated with how I played and wanting to do better next time around. If that attitude wasn’t bad enough, let a fellow band member mess up or do something I felt was below the norm I had set; well look out Jack, we were going to have words! The situation got so bad that I had friends who would quit the band because of my attitude. One buddy told me, “Hey John, I love you but when it comes to playing together in a band, I’d just soon smack you in the face with my guitar!” And yes, we’re still pals even though he wouldn’t share a stage for 20 years. The same arrogance followed me when I began playing gospel songs. I loved making music for my Lord but my attitude was still judgmental on how well I or someone else performed; it was something I couldn’t shake.  I’m sure there are several reasons for this mindset I could point to, but that’s not what I want to focus in on today. Let’s just cut to the chase and let me tell you how I got over myself.

It wasn’t until an older friend approached me about this problem that I began to see myself as I really was. “John, I love hearing you play, but when I talk to you afterwards you’re always miffed and point out all the mistakes. Truthfully, I don’t hear them and probably no one else does either. I’m surprised how unhappy you are. So, my question to is, are you doing music for the right reasons? If not, perhaps it would be better if you stopped and found something else to do, something that will make you happy.” Wow! If that wasn’t a 2X4 between the eyes I don’t know what would be! I can’t say his words didn’t sting and even made me a bit angry; but God knew I needed to hear those words. He knew there was a need to do some heart searching on who exactly I was trying to please with my gift. Him? Others? Or me?

I believe one of my favorite quotes comes from Leo Buscaglia, “Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.” God looked down and saw a young boy with a learning problem and very little self-esteem. Perhaps He said, “It’s okay, just trust me and it will get better, I promise. As an added bonus I’m going to give you the love of music and making music. What you do with it will be up to you. Because I love you.” There used to be an acronym based on the word J.O.Y.  Jesus, Others, You.  I had to break out of a self-centered attitude that it wasn’t all about me but the One who gifted me–Jesus my Lord. Then came the people who I touched with that gift–Others. Finally, I will never be the greatest musician in the world, but I can take delight in the gift that was given–You.

1 Peter 4:10 “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

This “Traveler of Rock Road” has come a long way in his attitude by learning how to worship my Lord with my gift, by sharing it with others, and by loving what God has given me. What more can a man ask for?!!

I am much easier to play music with now, even my old buddy told me he’d share a stage with me again. But remember his threat, I just may wear my bicycle helmet when we do jam!

See ya next time.

Came across an old snapshot the other week that used to be one of my favorites. It’s a picture of me with two guys I used to perform in a band with; our wives are also in the shot. Peering down on this print always brings a smile to my face remembering not only the music we performed but the good times we had and the friendship we shared that still lives today. Then a time came when seeing the picture brought sadness and even a little anger. So I put it away not to look at it anymore. Why?

I kept the picture on the corner of my desk at home and while reaching for a black marker on a shelf above the desk the marker dropped, landing on the pic and creating a black mark. I tried desperately to wipe away the mark only to make it worse. Well, Hoot! Even though it was a small area smudged on the print it just made me sick to look at it. I left it on my desk for a few more days and each time I caught sight of the marred image anger would rise in me. How could I be so careless with something that meant a great deal to me. I at last stuck it in a drawer so it couldn’t haunt me anymore. I still had the memory of those people, the fun we had and even the day the picture was taken, and I no longer had to look at the disgusting black mark! That is until I’d open the drawer and there it would be, reminding me once again of my mistake.

Then one day when pulling out some papers from that drawer the picture came out with them. I started to put it back, but then I stopped. I began looking at it like I used to. The mark was still there, but it was like I was noticing for the first time it didn’t cover up the images. And the more I concentrated on the smiling faces and the good times we were having on that day the smaller the dark spot seemed to appear. It was still there and noticeable, but it didn’t cover up the picture of happiness. The only thing that changed was I was no longer focused in on the stain, I was back to seeing what brought me happiness.

I have come to see that like the blotch on my picture we all at times have dark spots on our lives, troubles that will take all our energy, emotions, and concentration and hold them captive. They appear so large that nothing can penetrate the shell of sadness in which we find ourselves encompassed. But the truth of the matter is there’s always joy out there for you to be a part of be it in others that have blessed your life or even those precious moments that elate the heart as you think of them. My point is this, in this world we’ll all face tribulations that bring us down; that’s okay, I understand and I’ve been there. But you don’t have to live your life with that black spot staring you in the face keeping you from seeing anything else. As you know, I like using my Great Aunt Pearl as an example because she was such a mentor to me.

It was as number of years after the passing of her husband Price that I ran into two former coworkers of Pearl. They wanted to let me know how much they enjoyed the time they worked together. Then one said to me, “It was such a shock to us all when we heard of all the years Price was sick, how Pearl had to take care of him often going on little sleep, and finally his death. Your Aunt Pearl would never talk about that; she would come to work in a good mood, enjoy being with us and we with her. That’s one strong woman, your Aunt Pearl.” Pearl had it rough, but she absolutely refused to let that permeate her entire life. She looked for ways to be blessed and to be a blessing.

Romans 5:1-5 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.  Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

“Paul says that as Christians we can rejoice even in tough times because we have hope and because we know that God is working in our lives.”  Rick Warren

My fellow “Travelers of the Rock Road,” never Never NEVER, let the black dot in your life grow so big that you can’t see the beautiful picture around you, and especially don’t let it distract you from the love of the Lord. He hasn’t forgotten you, He knows what you’re going through, He’s there every step of the way. And never forget how God feels about you. Max Lucado put it like this: “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 paraphrase a certain comedian, “Now that ought to bring a smile to your face, I don’t care who you are!”

Hey. Let’s stop looking at the dark spot and let’s focus on the picture.

See ya next time.

I don’t about you but I’ve read, seen in pictures, TV and other sources places that make me go, “Wow, I sure want to visit there someday.” Over the years I’ve been fortunate to be able to visit most of the places in my dreams. Some were just the way I imagined and more. Others, well let’s just say they didn’t meet up to what I thought they’d be. One young man (we’ll call him Bobby) I became friends with had one dreamland he talked about all the time. New York! Still living with his parents when we met he showed me his room where the walls were plastered with posters. Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Manhattan and the New York Skyline plus numerous pictures of restaurants and shops.  He had the most impressive collection of magazines, books and videos of the city I had ever seen. He knew more about the five boroughs than probably most native New Yorkers. But what I found most curious about this ardent fan of the Big Apple was that he had never been there. His family didn’t have a lot of money so trips were generally places close and inexpensive; camping, an occasional visit to an amusement park and a yearly visit to Missouri where extended family lived. But that didn’t deter Bobby, someday he’d not only visit but would live in New York City.

The next couple of years I’d only run into Bobby occasionally, generally when he was coming or going to work. He’d always be donning a jacket, shirt or pullover with some type of NYC logo and a Yankees cap perched on his head. “I haven’t given up my dream. Soon as I have enough money I’m on my way,” he would tell me. Always smiling I’d answer, “That’s great Bobby, stay at it.” All the time though my thoughts were, ‘he’s young and impressionable, he’ll grow out of this someday.’ The majority of the young folks I’ve known with wild-eyed dreams (yours truly included) find out chasing a certain dream isn’t as great as they had hoped and go on with something more practical for their lives. Bobby was a good kid but impressionable, he’d grow out of his big city obsession sooner of later.  So I thought.

Early one Summer morning as I was getting ready to go to work, I saw an old Nova coming down the street toward me.  The car was packed so full with boxes the only space open was in the driver’s seat. And who’s behind the wheel? Bobby! “I told you someday I’d make it to New York. On my way now, just wanted to swing by to say so long and get your address so I can send you a post card.” Bobby, that’s awesome! So do you have a job waiting on you?” “Nope!” “Well do you have a place to stay when you get there?” “Nope!” “Okay then, have you made a contact there with someone to help you get settled?” “Nope!” It was easy for Bobby to see the concern on my face so before I could say anything else he chimed in, “I’ll be okay, even if I have to sleep in my car for a while. I just know it’s where I’m supposed to be.” Saying that he gave me a big hug, jumped back into his miniature modern day Conestoga wagon and headed down the street; and I never saw him again.

I saw Bobby’s dad a few days later and his opinion was similar to mine. “He’ll get there and see it’s not everything he thought it would be and head back home.”  A couple of months later I ran into his dad again. “Bobby is bussing tables at some restaurant and living in an apartment that from the pictures doesn’t look as big as his bedroom at our house. I don’t know what’s wrong with that boy but he’ll be home sooner or later.”  All his family and friends felt the same way. I worried that he might be too embarrassed if he fails in New York and may go to any length not to let the ones back home know if he’s in bad shape. After all, everyone knew he was crazy to chase after a place he had never been. He just needed to come back to where he really needed to be. Really?

Flash forward 20 years. I saw Bobby’s mom and dad in a restaurant, so I had to ask how he was doing. “We just got back from seeing him, he’s working on Broadway.” His dad let my eyes get a wide as they could before continuing. “He’s part of the construction crew that builds the sets for the plays.” He went on to tell how Bobby showed them around to all the sights and sounds of the city, took them to great restaurants, met many wonderful friends he had made there and had plenty of room for them to stay in the apartment he was now in.  He finished with, “I never thought I’d say this but he knew more what he wanted than the rest of us and he’s doing great. He’s home!”

For the last 26 years I’ve had my sights on a place I’ve never visited, never seen and have never talked to anyone who has been there. But I know it exists. I know it’s a wonderful full of joy and happiness. I know that once I get there I’ll never want to be anywhere again. In Psalm 84:2 we read, “My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” When David wrote these words he also had never seen Heaven, but he knew it was real and devoted his life to day when he would go there. I have known countless many that have left this world with the assurance in their hearts they were going where they’re meant to be; they were going Home.

John 14:1-3 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.  My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Philippians 3:20 “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

C.S. Lewis “Your place in heaven will seem to be made for you and you alone, because you were made for it.”

Bobby, today’s “Traveler of the Rock Road,” knew better than anyone he was made to live in New York City, New York. For the Believer, they know they were made to someday live in Heaven. Why not join them? I can tell you without ever being there, it’ll be the most awesome place you ever been.

See ya next time.

I admire ones who are self-assured of who they are and what they believe because at different moments I have been neither. I’ve written in the past struggles I’ve had, but I don’t believe any weighed as much as when I came to the point of doubting the love of my Lord, and even if He existed. Going along the roughest road of my life I became disillusioned and began to wonder if I was just wasting my time. Well there was only one way to find, dig in and investigate, was God real or not. So began an exhausting study of the greatest theological apologetics (defense, evidence, historical proof and reason on why the Bible is true) that have ever been written. Without going into a lot of detail at the end of my study, I came away with this position; What an amazing and incredible God we have!

Okay, saying all that, allow me to tell you a different problem I encountered and what I’m writing about today; the guilt of my doubt. When I got over my pity party, finished my studies and came to the realization that God is who He says He is, there for me, loving me. I was saddled with the sadness of how I could even doubt the one I call Lord. I then took this problem to others that were wiser and more stable in their faith. To my surprise each one told me of times when the same thing happened to them even if it was for a short moment. One I’ll never forget as he smiled across the desk from me and said, “Well you certainly have the right name?” Now what the heck was he talking about? My name wasn’t Thomas and everyone knows he was tagged as the disciple who doubted. He continued; “Don’t you remember the story of John the Baptist?” Well sure I knew him; the Voice crying in the Wilderness, the last prophet before Jesus who proclaimed Christ as Messiah and baptized Him; also, His cousin. What’s he got to do with anything? “John was taken and thrown into prison by Herod because he told him of the sin he was doing. Later Herod had John beheaded.” Yes, I knew all that, nothing new here. “But while John was in prison he began to question certain things, like is Cousin, Jesus the One we’ve been waiting for?” In Matthew 11:2-3 we read, When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask Him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else? My friend leaned forward on the desk to look at me straight in the eye; “After all he had seen, all the preaching he had done proclaiming Jesus as Savior, he was now sitting in a damp, dark dungeon, probably never going to get out of alive. And he’s most likely thinking what’s up with this?!!” “He hit bottom and was totally confused.” Then looking harder at me he said “John, John was doubting!” Settling back in his chair he continued. “I see a small but compassionate smile coming to Jesus’s face right before He says, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” I think He knew John hadn’t lost his faith, he just hit a low point and needed a reminder he was right. Then I love what Jesus said about John next. As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.  Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”  John doubted, yet Christ gave him the greatest honor for He knew his heart even in the worst circumstances.

Me and my man John aren’t the only ones that went through moments of doubt. It seems like every Christian writer, teacher and pastor I have ever studied had that moment when they just weren’t sure; perhaps even you.

“Belief in God does not exempt us from feelings of abandonment by God. Praising God does not inoculate us from doubts about God.” Eugene Petersen

“Surely… we cannot imagine any certainty that is not tinged with doubt, or any assurance that is not assailed by some anxiety.” John Calvin

“I think the trouble with me is lack of faith… often when I pray I wonder if I am not posting letters to a non-existent address.” C.S. Lewis

So as you can see even the best have had those low moments of doubt. The question then becomes what do we do with them?  Do we decide to chuck it all because of unanswered questions we haven’t figured out, or do we stand firm in our faith?

Here’s a little story I heard years back. An earthquake struck a in a country that I’m sorry I don’t remember the name of. There was a school in a village where the students and teacher took refuge in the basement and were subsequently alive when the building collapsed. There was no way they could get out and all had given up hope anyone would reach them. Then a young boy stood up and said, “No! I know my father will not give up looking and will rescue us.” He made that statement out of faith. He didn’t know what was going on above them but he would not give up his faith in his dad. He also didn’t know the village had given up hope of finding anyone alive in the school, except the father. He went there and dug through the rubble an entire day, that night and the next day without stopping; until he reached the students. The first words out of his son’s mouth were, “I was scared, but I knew you would come.”

“Faith goes up the stairs that love has built and looks out the window which hope has opened.” Charles Spurgeon

“Faith isn’t believing without proof – it’s trusting without reservation.” William Sloane Coffin

This “Traveler of the Rock Road” has had his moments of doubt, just like so many others, but that has not stopped me from believing in my Lord and His love for me. I suppose I could credit it to all the studying I did, but a better and more truthful answer would be summed up in one word. Faith!

Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

‘nuf said.

See you next time.

Before my knees gave out, I used to love skiing; nothing like swooshing down the side of hill on a beautiful Winter day.  By no means was I great skier, I usually stayed on long intermediate slopes where I could get in a good run but not at neck break speed, not like my sons and their snowboards. Those boys could do moves, stunts and reach speeds I wouldn’t even attempt. That’s one of the nice things about skiing, the skill levels ran the gambit. There were ones you’d think could compete in the Olympics, others at my skill level and a good number of beginners or nervous nellies who looked awkward making their way down the easiest runs. Which brings me to this week’s story.

My oldest son and I were at a great ski resort in West Virginia; great, well-groomed runs in beautiful scenery. As nightfall came they’d turn on large lights set on poles that lit up the whole area in an atmosphere of pure enchantment. Jeremy was off tackling double black hills, the hardest and fastest slopes, and I had paired up with a guy to do a different run, not as hard but still could test your skill level. We had made our way back to the top via the ski lift when I spotted the man and woman standing near the starting point and he was talking very gently to her. “Now honey, you’ve been on the bunny slope all day and you’ve done great. Now it’s time to try something harder and you’re going to be fine, just stay relaxed and remember the things I’ve taught you.” With that he skied gracefully down the slope about 20 feet, came to a stop and then powered his way back to her. “I just don’t think I can do this,” she said with a sick looking face as she stared in near fright down the hill. “I know you can do this, I have faith in you,” he responded. He promised he’s stay close and me and my new friend said we’d go also for support. “No!” she shouted out. “I have to do this without anyone near me or I’ll get more nervous.” Finally, the moment of truth came, she pushed off with her poles to start the descent down the hill. “You’re doing great sweetheart,” her husband called after her. The first little bit she seemed okay, but as she built up speed her legs came apart as if she was astride a very large horse. Going in a straight line she moved faster and faster, arms out to her side. She was now in a spread-eagle position traveling high velocity speed down the course looking like an accident waiting to happen. And it did. One of her skis crossed in front of the other causing her to fall hard. With an explosion of snow she rolled and crashed some 50 yards down the slope, skis coming off and going in different directions. When she came to a stop she laid there motionless and facedown. The three of us shot down to her as fast as we could with her husband reaching her first. “Honey, are you alright?!!” Still gripping one of her poles I was glad I wasn’t any closer to her than I was. She turned over and swung that pole hard catching her husband across the leg. “No I’m not alright! I’m cold, I’m wet, I’m hurting and embarrassed! I hate being out here, I hate skiing, and I HATE YOU!!!! Now get away from me!” My friend gave me a look that said this would be a good time to leave and we headed down the hill with the husband following after us at a slower speed I’m sure nursing a very sore leg. We I looked back up the slope; the wife had gathered her gear from the snow and was walking down the side hill. The couple disappeared into the lodge with the husband staying a safe distance behind and I never saw them again. Looking back now, it gives me a chuckle I must say, but once again I learned a little something. So here goes.

It was pretty obvious the wife was out there only because her husband wanted her to. The problem was she really didn’t have the ability, nor did she want to have any. Seems she bowed to pressure and gave in. Perhaps she forgave hubby and later gave it another try and prevailed. At least on the first part I hope! That brings to mind times when different ones have told me I believe God is calling you for this or that and you’d be great in this ministry. Oh really? And why did God tell you and not me?!! I’m not trying to be anti at taking advice from others, but I’m a firm believer if I’m walking with God the way I should, He’s going to put in my heart the direction He has chosen for me. 1 Peter 4:10 tell us, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” I have found myself trying to succeed in ways that just weren’t meant for me, not my gift. And I was miserable, and I failed miserably. It might have been the right path for someone else, but it was not what God had called me for. When I realized what my gift was and now to use it in the service of the one I call Lord it brought me great joy in using it and learning from others who could teach me more. Steve Harvey once said, “I’m going to take this God-given gift of being funny, and I’m going to spread it out like peanut butter on everything I do.” That’s love of your gift, and that’s love for the One who gave it to you. I think I used this once before, but it bears repeating. “Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.”

I wonder occasionally about those “Travelers of the Rock Road.” If they’re like my me and my Lady, they look back on that night and laugh about it now. You see Cathy and I have many things in common, but also giftedness in different areas, that’s how God made us for whatever He’s prepared us for. Trying to force something we think each other could or should do never workes out. And after that day on the slopes I’m sure not going to force her to do something that puts a stick in her hands!

See ya next time.

Years ago, we rented a very large house with another couple who had two small children; we had the bottom and they had a 2^nd floor. These two were just wonderful to be around, always happy. They had a genuine love for life, each other, their children and especially, their Lord. They were also a couple that never knew a stranger. Everyone they met they spoke encouraging words and always with smiles that just made their whole face beam. Truly an exceptional pair that we feel blessed to have known.

Down the street from where we lived was this gentleman, well up in the years, with some obvious physical limitations. He walked a slow pace with a cane, bent over at the waist and you could hear him wheezing with every breath he drew. On many occasions I spoke to the old man but he would ignore any comments, and for good reason as I learned later. Even though his home was just a few blocks from where we were it was a rough section of town. His door locks were broken so the house was always open. A group of rather rough kids would come into his house anytime they wanted and help themselves to whatever they wanted even at times stealing his social security check. He had no family and with no phone he couldn’t call the police when he needed to. He ate one meal a day brought in by Meal-on-Wheels. Occasionally he could get someone to take him for groceries or to the doctor, otherwise his time was spent in a solitary life.

One day the wife of the upstairs couple was taking her children for a walk and saw the man sitting on his porch. She called out a friendly greeting but he gave no response, just sat looking down. Most would have just walked on but as she would tell it there was a tug at her heart that she just needed to reach out to this man. Walking up on the porch, children in hand she kept up cheering words hoping and praying she could reach him. Finally looking up he saw her and the two-little tykes, and a smile came to his face. That’s all she needed. She put her tiny daughter on his lap and sat down next to him with her son. With that little girl crawling all over him, hugging his neck and then falling asleep in his arms, the walls he had put up around himself began to crumble. From that point on the family was down to “Grandpa Ben’s” as they called him every chance they had. The husband and a few of his friends fixed the door locks and other things that had become dilapidated around the house. They set up a bank account so his retirement checks were directly deposited and they made sure he got around to all the places he needed to go. They took him on family outings, included him in on holidays and special events like birthdays, and he never missed a Sunday going to church with them.

The day came when the husband who was working on a degree in college finished his studies and accepted a position back in his hometown in Ohio; he and wife knew what they had to do but weren’t sure how it was going to go. Having dinner that evening with Grandpa Ben, they broke the news that they would be moving away soon and he cried. His thinking that for the first time in years he had people that cared for him and he loved back and they were leaving him. Then the wife spoke up. “No Ben, you don’t understand. It’s not just us, we’re all leaving; we want you to come with us. We can’t leave you behind, you’re family!” And Grandpa Ben cried.

“True love in action is more than words, a feeling or a momentary act. It’s a lifetime commitment that you will always be there for that someone, just like Christ does for each of us.” J. David Miller

“Loving like Jesus means you must value others like Jesus values you.” Rick Warren.

Romans 12:9-10 New Living Translation: Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honoring each other.

On a warm summer morning, a wonderful couple we were so proud we got to know packed up their home in a large U-Haul to head to Dayton Ohio. The husband drove the van and his wife the car with the two children in the back, with a well-worn “Traveler of the Rock Road,” Grandpa Ben sitting next to her, a smile beaming just as bright as hers.  We never saw the family again, sadly we heard Ben passed away six months after their move; he went to be with the Lord surrounded by his loved ones. But weeks before his death a family portrait was taken that included everyone on both sides, with Ben sitting right in the middle. It hangs on their wall to this day.

This young couple could be called exceptional, big hearted and generous to someone else. But if you were to ask them, they’d tell you they only did what God did for them; love unconditionally.  Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  And I’m sure if you spoke to the husband, wife or the children they would never tell about being a blessing to a lonely man. They’d tell you how blessed there were when God brought Grandpa Ben into their lives.  After all, he was family!

See ya next time.

“A leopard doesn’t change its spots and people don’t change the way they are!” I can still remember his words as if he said them yesterday, and boy did they sting.

As I’ve told in the past, after giving my life to Christ feelings of conviction came over me that I needed to make things right with numerous individuals that I had wronged in one way or another. Now I wouldn’t have won the Simon Lagree achievement award for dastardly deeds done to others, but shamefully I admit there was a period of time I didn’t consider other people’s feelings and needs as much as my own. To put it bluntly I hurt some folks with my actions, and now there was a great sense of urgency in me that I had to make matters right with all I had done wrong. Some I sent letters to confessing my wrongs, expressing how sorry I was with a hope they could forgive me. Others I was able to track down and tell them face to face my mission with them. It brought great joy to my heart when someone said the words “It’s okay, I forgive you.” There were a few that said little during our encounters, mostly just listened. I can’t even be sure if they forgave me, but at least I got to say what I wanted. A couple of them though I can now refer to as friends once again. Then came the moment I stood on the doorstep of one, as the old saying goes, I knew would be the hardest nut to crack. When he opened the door I could tell by the look on his face he was not happy to see me there. I started by telling I needed to say something but he didn’t want any part of it. “Look, I’ve changed, please just hear me out.” He would have no part of it; that’s when he said those words to me. “A leopard doesn’t change its spots and people don’t change the way they are!” With that he ordered me off his property, never to return and slammed the door. As I walked to my car there was sadness but it was overshadowed by my anger. My mind raced; “The big jerk! I drive all the way to Kentucky to tell him something I felt he needed to hear but because of his unyielding bitterness toward me he won’t even take a minute to listen! Have it your way, you old coot, I don’t need you!” So, end of story. I did all I could do and there was nothing more. Oh really? I ought to know when it comes to God, He won’t let you leave something undone.

I’m not sure the old saying “Time heals all wounds” is indeed accurate, I’ve met numerous like my old friend who cannot forgive or forget, and truthfully I could be counted among them. As much as I told myself it didn’t matter, it was his problem and not mine, that moment would still come back to haunt me. I thought about trying again but had no reason to believe the results would be any different. Maybe a letter, but without ever knowing if he’d read it or not, I didn’t see that as a viable option.  But really, why should I even care? I don’t see where our paths would ever cross again, and after all, I did what God wanted me to. Or did I?

It took some time for me to realize something. I really wasn’t trying to please God as much as I was trying, well to look good to others. After all, I had changed from the person I once was and I think there was this need for everyone to acknowledge it. Who knows, perhaps I wanted them to be in awe and that’s not what God really wants from us. Sure, He wants us to live in harmony with others and make amends when we need to; but even more, He wants us to live our lives in way that glorifies Him; that if there’s anything special about us it not us, but the one we call Lord. That’s why we read Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” and also Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Until I stopped talking about how much I changed and began to tell what God had done for me, then my words, deeds, actions didn’t mean much.

John Piper: “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” Criss Jami once wrote: “When we look for success, it should be for the sole purpose of boasting sincerely in Christ. There’s no other reason for it. Success is only worth it when the more intense it gets for you, the more you find yourself bragging for His glory rather than your own.”

So, my x-friend was right; a leopard doesn’t change it spots, but God can change a heart. It’s then our job to show the world what “He” has done in us. I doubt if I’ll ever see this disgruntled “Traveler of the Rock Road” again, but there’s still something I can do. I can pray for him. Not a prayer that he someday forgives, that’s back putting the focus on me again. But I can pray for his life, health, family. I can ask God to bless him and send him happiness. Most of all, I can pray that he discovers and accepts the love and healing that comes through Christ. Who knows, maybe when I get to Heaven he’ll be there waiting for me with one of his big bear hugs. That would be awesome! But for whatever happens in the now, I can still pray for him with my new heart. The old coot!!

See ya next time.