Thanks

It is not enough to simply say "Thanks," but that is a start. As we move toward Memorial Day we are reminded once again of the incredible sacrifice that has been offered by each generation of American patriots who have defended freedom here and abroad. I sit in awe of the brave men and women who have given life and limb for a culture, a nation, a way of life. America truly is a beacon of freedom and hope to the world because of their sacrifice. From massive campaigns like D-Day and Operation Iraqi Freedom, to the most clandestine operations in the rugged hills of Afghanistan and Iraq, America's best have defended and secured freedom. No other nation has carried the beacon of human freedom like America. That light continues to shine because of the dedicated service of our Armed Forces. So, let us salute those who have gone before, and those who are serving now. To all whose remains lay still under white crosses and simple headstones in defense of an ideal worth dying for . . . Thank You. To those who are today proudly wearing the most honorable uniform in the world . . . Thank You.

Celebrating Kids

We had a great time at HDBC this past Sunday night as we focused our attention on Celebrating Kids. We celebrated the great work that our kids have done in learning Bible verses, the books of the Bible and so much more. I am so proud of our kids and workers. Nothing is more important to us at HDBC than our kids and youth.

We enjoyed some fun songs that kids sing. Rick even brought out a blast from the past. I've uploaded some video from that "oldie by goodie" that I took with my iPhone. The quality is not great, but it is fun to watch.

Discovering Life

Enjoyed spending a few hours with my young grandson, Jackson, this morning. He is three weeks old today and is changing so fast. It was easy while he was sleeping. I simply held him close, knowing that on some level a bonding was taking place. It was fun while he was awake. We looked into each other's eyes. I'm not sure what he was thinking, but I know my mind was trying to imagine what the rest of his life would be like. I placed him on his back and watched as he explored his new world. Arms and legs moving . . . eyes shifting from one side then to another . . . heart beating with the joy of each new discovery. We're only three weeks in, but already Jackson is bringing great joy to our lives. I tried to upload a short video to the blog but it would not complete it. So, I've placed it on my Facebook page.

Monday Morning

Several decades ago The Carpenters sang about Rainy Days and Mondays. Well we have that combination this morning as I'm typing this blog. It is Monday. It is cool. It is raining. But I'm feeling great. I continue to be blessed with a great mom. It was such a joy to think about and appreciate her especially on Mother's Day (yesterday). I have an incredible wife with whom I have been married for more than thirty-two years. It gets better with each passing year. We have three beautiful, adult daughters, two sons-in-law and a couple of precious grandsons. We have a modest but warm and comfortable home. We belong to a church that is the best. Our sins have been forever forgiven and we have a home in Heaven when that time comes. And just for icing on the cake, we have been invited to a fish fry tonight. Deep-fried crappie, french fries and hush puppies. I know it's overused . . . but life is good.

Tea with Hezbollah

Finished an intriguing book a few days ago, Tea with Hezbollah, by Ted Dekker and Carl Medearis. The title caught my eye and I expected a book dealing with the politics of the Middle East. It was not. Dekker and Medearis traveled to some of the most dangerous places in the Middle East, sat across the table from men considered to be some of the most dangerous in the world, and talked not about politics or terrorism, but about the principle of love.

Muslims acknowledge the goodness of Jesus and consider Him to be one of the great prophets. Christians (fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ as revealed in the Bible) see Him differently. We not only believe He was a good man and a prophet, but more importantly the Son of God who died in our place that our sins might be forgiven. Dekker and Medearis are Christians.

Because Muslims and Christians revere Jesus (though in different ways and with radically different results), the authors wanted to know if there was common ground based on the particular teaching by Jesus known as The Good Samaritan. It is a story of love, compassion and overcoming prejudices. You can read it in the Bible in Luke 10. The authors wanted to know if the principles from that teaching could be applied to modern-day enemies in the Middle East.

It is an interesting book and will cause you to think about how you look upon those whom you would otherwise consider your enemy.

Jackson Riley Liles

Last Thursday afternoon at 4:13 p.m. my second grandson was born. Jackson Liles weighed in at six pounds, eight ounces and was nineteen and a half inches long. He is perfect. I'm sure that is not technically true . . . but from Papa J's perspective he is. Three people have already shared how handsome he is. I am assuming that is what they meant when they said that he looked like me. I am so proud of Jana and David. They are doing great. The first two nights home with the new baby they weathered (literally) tornado watches and warnings. Things seem to be settling down at this point so hopefully things will get a little easier. I'm already looking forward to exploring the back yard, wrestling in the floor, talking about the meaning of life, and teaching him how to throw and catch a football. The future looks bright.