Extended Family

Jan, Julie, Hutch, Jana and I spent the weekend in Louisiana visiting our families. Jan's dad celebrated his 80th birthday on Saturday and we celebrated with him. It was great . . . he took us all out to dinner for his birthday, and he picked up the tab. What a great father-in-law! We were also able to visit with Jan's brothers and sister, and their families.

While we were in Monroe, we were also able to spend some time with my mom and dad. It is such a blessing to have a wonderful family. Jan and I both realize just how blessed we are not only with our immediate family, but also with our extended one. God has been so good to us.

We missed being with our church family at Highland Drive Baptist, but did enjoy our time down south. Thanks to Shay and Rick for handling the worship celebrations on Sunday.

I hope you each have a great week. Remember to look for the hand of God in the little things throughout the day. He is working. Do you see it?

Blessings,
Johnny

Jury Duty

After 51 years on the planet my time to serve on a trial jury finally came around. Please don't assume from that I was sitting around counting the days until my lot was chosen. It's just that through all of these years I was never selected. And quite frankly, it would be just fine if another decade or two roll by before I get a similar notice in the mail.

However, having said that, I will say that it was an enjoyable experience. All of those years watching Matlock, and Judd for the Defense finally paid off. I had the delightful privilege of spending four days with thirteen other individuals who for the most part were complete strangers. However, after spending so much time together, friendships, even on a surface level began to develop. Each person with whom I served, took their roles seriously and completed their responsibities in a professional way. It was a joy to get to know them.

The court personnel were all very curteous and helpful. My experience with each of them was truly positive. This really is a great country.

Johnny

Easter

What a great day we had on Easter. Praise God for the incredible gift of life through His son, Jesus. His death and resurrection have made all the difference in the world.

It is such a joy to serve as the pastor of Highland Drive Baptist Church. Special thanks to all who made our Easter Worship Celebrations so wonderful. I look forward to each Sunday with you.

Have a great week. Remember to watch for the hand of God as He is working in and around you this week.

Johnny

Missing Jan

My wife has spent the past several days on an educational tour of England and Scotland with some of her students, a parent, and a fellow-teacher. Boy, am I ready for her to come home. Quite frankly we have been apart for several days in the past, but usually I am the one doing the traveling.

Having made a number of mission trips to Africa, Europe and South America, I have often been away from Jan and my girls. On each of those trips I have missed them greatly, but have been immersed in the work that we went to do. It is a different story when I am the one back home.

Now, don't get me wrong. I am staying quite busy, and my daughters are making sure that I am seldom alone. But not having my sweetheart nearby is tough. What a blessing it will be when she arrives home on Thursday.

It really makes me appreciate the sacrifice that our soldiers are making when they are separated from their families for months, rather than days. I am truly thankful for the gift of freedom which their sacrifices secure and maintain.

Johnny

The New Suit

There is nothing like a new suit. Stephen and Julie bought Hutch a three-piece suit for Easter and he tried it on for Jan and I the other night. He did not have the vest on, but everything else was in place. Check out the picture . . . he sort of has that evangelist look. You never know . . .

It Happened!

Finally, the snow arrived. What fun it was to watch it fall almost all day on Friday. Now I can finally concede that it is time for Spring. So, let the warmer weather come. Hope you enjoyed your time either in the snow, or just watching it.

Did you know that there are twenty-one references to snow in the Bible? It describes the color of Miriam's skin after she was struck with leprosy. It describes the color of Jesus' hair in the Revelation given to John. And most importantly it describes just how pure a heart is after sins have been forgiven by God.

Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow. Isaiah 1:18.

Maybe this is one of the reason I enjoy snow. It reminds me of God's marvelous grace.

Johnny

Snow, Snow, Snow

All winter I have been waiting for that illusive "good snow." I am generally not ready for spring until we have had a good snow. It should have been a great sign when the old groundhog saw his shadow a few weeks ago.

Will this be the time when we actually do get some snow? The kid in me says "yes." Now, I know many of you do not like snow. I know it is a hindrance and a bother. But I still love it. So, if it snows, have some fun.

Blessings

Rainy Days and Mondays

"Rainy days and Mondays always get me down." So crooned Karen Carpenter in her hit single in 1971. Yes, I admit I am somewhat of a "Carpenters" fan. But I also enjoy CCR, America, Three Dog Night, the Temptations, the Platters, Alabama, Martina McBride, Steven Curtis Chapman, Third Day . . . well you get the picture. I just love music, all kinds (well, almost all kinds).

But that is not the point. The point is, it is Monday morning and it is raining. Has it gotten me down? Not at all. I have no problems with Mondays. For me they represent a new beginning, raining or not. I would prefer the sunshine, but can handle the rain, knowing that each new week offers new challenges and new opportunites. Somehow the fatigue that clings to me on Sunday night is generally gone on Monday morning. So, I am looking forward to a great week.

Blessings,
Johnny