“So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them.” Jonah 3:5 NKJV
All God has ever asked of any person, any sinner, is to simply believe Him. Believe what He has done for you. Believe that Christ died for you- you and your sins. Believe that He was raised from the dead. Believe that He is now at the right hand of God. If you want to be with God the Father, you will have to go thru His Son, Jesus Christ.
The people of Nineveh believed. Then they demonstrated their faith by proclaiming a fast.
Moon over desert… Not sure what is happening here…Heading towards Alamogordo Climbing out of the White Sands Missile range…God provided us with a few rainbows on our journey…
“There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NLT
What a great gift we have been given, by God, to have the privilege of working with brothers and sisters who love the Lord Jesus Christ and love each other. This allows us all to share and show the love of Christ with each homeowner and individual we spoke to. Praise the Lord for the leadership shown by NMDR, made our work easier. Praise to AZDR and their dedication to our deployment. Thanks to all of our church members praying for us…
We went back to Dexter New Mexico and were greeted by Lucky and his friend, Diamond…This house was demolished today…The kitchen…Michelle doing the grind of drywall removal…The kitchen before, DR Bill took it all apart…Our mobile work shop…
“Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world.”” John 4:42 NLT
Tools of the trade, to defeat mold…This is Lucky and his unnamed friend…Lucky likes our Chaplain…DR Ken deals with no less than 4 levels of flooring…The homeowner speaks no English so we put our Chaplain to work…
“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.” Philippians 4:19-20 NKJV
Our AZDR dually and recovery trailer, looking good in Roswell…If you’re a car guy (and everyone should be a car guy) this is sad. A 2014 Corvette submerged in flood waters…DR Ken wondering what our Chaplain is doing???..Power washer in action…DR Michelle cleaning up the mess I made…AZDR’s newest Blue Hat, DR David…Mud and nails…AZDR RC001, a very jiggy team!!!
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9 NKJV
I have been looking at these Alien eyeballs for the last three days, I like them…DR Bill checking out some huge barbed wire…This house is very close to FBC Roswell, where we are staying…Part of the historic district, Lea avenue…
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.” Psalms 23:1-6 NKJV
The house next door…The neighborhood dog, we think her name is Scruffy, and she is, loves bacon…Scruffy enjoying her back rub. Waiting for more bacon…We have a great team, thanks to The Lord Jesus Christ…Trash disposal that is out of this world…This is miserable drywall to remove…Not sure what vegetables are growing here…DRNM Wayne performed a couple of songs after the evening meal…
“So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalms 90:12 NKJV
Dogs love AZDR…DR Bill and DR Ken made short work of the bathroom Our newest Blue Hat leads by example…Our Chaplain, when the homeowner is not there, this is her happy place…DR Terry is always a welcome member of our team…These guys, DR Michelle and Diana have been working in this room for two days now…
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 KJV
There is just nothing like a church full of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ sing songs of worship to our Savior. Thanks to FBC Roswell…Chaplain Norm seems to enjoy the locals…DR Mark, not so much…While we were enjoying a coffee downtown, a car caught fire. Fortunately no one was injured…A relaxing down day…After sleeping in a little, Bible fellowship, worship, lunch, and relaxing, we headed to a really nice steak dinner…
“Let Your work appear to Your servants, And Your glory to their children.
And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, And establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands.” Psalms 90:16-17 NKJV
Roswell finally came through with better weather. Freezing cold this morning (remember, we are from Arizona) the sun warmed the day quite nicely…a new job start today…Dramatic water line…DR Ken is removing a flooded air conditioner and our Chaplain is yanking nails…DR David cut a lot of drywall today…DR Bill installed new batteries in the AZDR flatbed and removed the entire kitchen too…DR Diana (standing) and DR Michelle getting this room ready for drywall removal…
“And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” I Corinthians 13:13 NKJV
Another muddy day in Roswell. The locals tell me it is never muddy here, I don’t believe them. This basement had water two inches past the ceiling rafters. Mud on the floor and walls …We had help from Wyoming Disaster Relief, Cas and Steve, great workers and fun to be around…DR Ken working the pressure washer making the basement look and smell better…Our humble debris pile…Water poured through these window wells and broke the glass and twisted the frames. DR David and DR Bill made temporary ones out of plywood, painted them and sealed them to the openings…Alien approved coffee shop. It was good…AZDR in downtown Roswell…
“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4 NKJV
We got straight to work today as we had to keep moving to stay warm…I forgot to mention that last night we were treated to a free meal at a local restaurant. It was great…Our newest Blue Hat, DR David really gets into his work…This kitchen did not go without a struggle…We found this as part of the kitchen cabinet…Our Chaplain is a closet dog whisperer…Today was cold, wet, muddy and miserable so we headed to a local coffee shop for some hot brews…
“Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass.
He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, And your justice as the noonday.
Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.” Psalms 37:3-7 NKJV
It looks like we are making videos, but these items are standard issue for AZDR…Take my word for it, this is our team member DR Diana…DR Michelle is wheeling our monster shop vac out for a good cleaning….Our Chaplain, hard at work…DR David working in the hallway, this house is about 2/3 complete…DR Bill is just finished in the bathroom…DR Ken rocking the latest in DR safety gear…I would love to say all dogs love us, but apparently, this dog is the exception. For two days we have fed this dog cheese, dog bones and talked to her, and for two solid days she has barked nonstop at us. I can only surmise, not all dogs love us…
““You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:13-16 NKJV
Every day is better when it’s started with prayer. We all circled up to lift NMDR White Hat Ed and his wife Loretta up to the Lord as they are facing some giants of this world. They are two great servants of the Lord Jesus Christ and our teams are always better with their leadership…A much needed break with time for fellowship…Dogs love us…AZDR spreading the Gospel in Roswell New Mexico…
“I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope.” Psalms 16:7-9 NKJV
Our first day of serving in Roswell. It can get cold…We had a beautiful morning …The day became very energetic, first some people showed up to take video and photos of us. The big push was when this group from the US Air Force honor guard from Holloman AFB. They worked hard for three hours, and then our Chaplain prayed for them before RTB…Our day finished in excitement as a seven year old little boy walked up to us and asked if we knew his Mommy. His name was Leo and he caught the wrong bus, as his Mom had to move their family after the flood. So, he hung out with our Chaplain as she quizzed him on math, astronomy and God…Dogs and kids, they love us…
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 NKJV
Common sign in Texas and Arizona rest areas…From Arizona to Louisiana to Florida to Arizona to New Mexico (our second ministry trip this year). It has been an active year for AZDR…
The Book of Ecclesiastes…
“The sun also rises, and the sun goes down, And hastens to the place where it arose.
The wind goes toward the south, And turns around to the north; The wind whirls about continually, And comes again on its circuit.
All the rivers run into the sea, Yet the sea is not full; To the place from which the rivers come, There they return again.” Ecclesiastes 1:5-7 NKJV
About a week has passed since Hurricane Helene hit the U.S. Helene is the deadliest hurricane since Katrina. Hardest hit was western North Carolina, where more than half of the known 215 deaths occurred. Floodwaters reached rooftop levels in many places; the rapidly moving water washed away homes and isolated, or destroyed, many communities. You have seen the photos.
I have been involved with disaster relief for 40 years, including some notable hurricanes like Andrew, Katrina, and Harvey. In every disaster people have asked “why” questions related to God, nature, governments, and people. Sometimes the answers are so vague or misguided they are of little help or comfort. I am certainly no expert, nor do I offer worldly answers. But I offer a reflection based on my Christian faith.
Our modern world surrounds us with amazing technology. We have harnessed electricity and split atoms. Pictures can be taken of what is inside our body and what Earth looks like from space. Wind velocity and direction can be measured inside the area of a hurricane. Images of a hurricane appear on TV, along with computer models of where it might be headed. “Why couldn’t we predict exactly what was going to happen in NC?” Because we are much more limited in our knowledge and capability than we care to admit. The Bible tells us, “The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know” (1 Corinthians 8:2). When we see all that God has done, we cannot comprehend it, though we work hard to find definitive answers (Ecclesiastes 8:17).
The response to a large-scale disaster like Helene is commendable. But it does take time, and manpower. For instance, local citizens used kayaks to rescue people until swift water rescue teams and helicopters arrived. Another example was the two days for a Baptist feeding unit to arrive from Texas to provide 50,000 hot meals per day; in the meantime, local efforts provided MREs for survivors to eat. I could go on, but remember that many of the survivors or responders may not be Christian, or even believe in God. Yet each of them was created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26). As Christians, we believe God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28), but do all affected by a disaster love God? Probably not, yet as Job said, “God is mighty and firm in his purpose” (Job 36:5), a purpose based on his love for the entire world (cf., John 3:16).
Lastly, reflect on human nature itself. I am amazed, but not surprised, by the overwhelming demonstrations of love found in the midst of disasters. It is not confined to the love believers have for the least of God’s people (Matthew 25:40). Rather, it is how God also uses love in the unbeliever to achieve his purpose. I’m not suggesting an act of love is a means of salvation for the unbeliever. It is, though, an expression of the amazing love of our Lord at work.
For about eleven days no one would stay in the loft with me. It was like my own private room and then guys moved up only because they had to. The empty space was my part of the loft..One last look at trees, and meeting these two psycho pups. When we left they got away from their owner and chased us for a quarter mile before giving up. Good thing her house was like a mile from the road. She was definitely not the pack leader…They must have needed a nap after we left. Crazy hounds…Gulfport Ms.
“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the spirits.
Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.” Proverbs 16:2-3 NKJV
Please continue to pray for our AZDR team members that are still serving in northern Florida. We had well over 1200 requests for help and teams from Ohio, California, Washington, Oregon, and New Mexico are still taking trees off of houses and blocked driveways…
Some Disaster Relief workers are resilient. I could not sleep on that…I started a new job this morning, wiping up sticky syrup. DR workers should not be fed flapjacks…Another puppy loves on Norm…Moe, Larry, and Curly…Farm fresh butt nuggets…Norm loves chicken…Porch roof flipped on top of the house roof…From left to right, Russ, Bryce, Jim, Patty, Norm, Terry and me. Russ and his team are spending the night in Jacksonville for a flight back to Arizona tomorrow…
“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?”
Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”” Isaiah 6:8 NKJV
I’ve been in the Boone area for a week now, returned home last night. It’s awful up here. Some areas may not get power back till after winter. 1400 people still missing.
I put my newly completed Crew Chief certification to work! I had a bunch of great people to work with, included two unsaved guys who just came to help out – one from New York! Please pray for Kenny and Billy – they certainly saw God’s people at work, and certainly heard to Gospel as well!
Let me know if you contemplate heading up here in the north… we could use you, and I would love to reconnect with you!
I got this from a friend and former teammate in Lahaina last year. I can’t believe that we are not hearing this on the news 24-7. If we had a different administration in office it would be shouted from the rooftops. Please pray for North Carolina and all of the SBDR members that are serving to bring the love of Christ to everyone they meet…
As for us, more trees, this could be a complex project…This is a monster of a job. This large tree has landed width wise and caused substantial damage to this mobile…These trees are preventing the construction of this home…Trees on an outbuilding, three of them…Our host church has a “Sister to Sister” ministry and invited all of our teams to “Fried Chicken with Friends.” So named by my new friend Ruby.We could not have asked for a better church to care for us…
“Also I will make him my firstborn, Higher than the kings of the earth. My mercy will I keep for him for evermore, And my covenant shall stand fast with him.” Psalm 89:27-28 KJV
Started out our day with a great Sunday school class and worship at this amazing church…And then, back to the task at hand, complete as many jobs as possible, even if you have to assess another tree. I know, shockingly we have more trees. I think we have looked at every tree in a 30 mile radius of Live Oak Florida…No dogs or cats today, just goats…A face that only a momma goat could love…It was decided that we should go out for dinner and I am not one to pass up a free meal. Chaplain Jim provided the evening’s entertainment…
“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight— if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.” Colossians 1:15-23 NKJV
Norm got to do some much needed (in her opinion) manual labor. She helped homeowner Kimberly move some trees. We could not make contact with anyone so she decided we should help with some trees. Trees, again…Not only did we find a couple of dogs, we found twenty or more crazy canines…More time on our hands, another small job completed…Just pile the brush on the side…This is how it has been the last few days. Norm working the phone, text and email to get us appointments with homeowners and me looking dazed and confused…They are some massive trees here in Suwannee County. Trees, you can never get enough of them…I guess…Many thanks to our AZDR Chainsaw Team, Terry, Russ and Bryce for this slice of Cedar tree that they had to cut up today…
“The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.” Proverbs 11:25 NKJV
Look at trees, see trees, talk about trees, rinse and repeat…A welcome change from trees, sadly we had to turn this job down…This is Scully, on the left, Pete, his owner, on the right. Scully was a nice distraction from trees…Two cool cats…
“Now the Lord descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the Lord.
And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth,
keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children to the third and the fourth generation.”” Exodus 34:5-7 NKJV
Trees…Trees…And more trees. It is all we ever see. Trees on homes, trees blocking driveways, trees leaning, trees in yards, tree debris clearing. Trees. I like trees. It’s always special when we get blessed by the people we come to bless. We serve an incredible God!Broken tree, always trees…Sorry for the bad photo. This lady is Lucy with Norm. Lucy came to our church in Miami after Hurricane Andrew destroyed it, we never met her there, but God introduced us to her today!
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 NKJV
The Westwood church has some damage from Helene…NMDR Jim is sharing something profound as our White Hat NMDR Ed looks on…Our Florida DR feed team posts words from the Bible for us to read and enjoy…After all this time we are still finding trees on homes with punctured roofs…The other part of the tree from above…Always great to hear NMDR Wayne play and sing for us…Praying for Florida…
“But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”” I Corinthians 2:9 NKJV
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
We have turtles living next door to us…Beautiful tree…1936 Buick…1953 GMC 3/4 ton truck Three on the tree- if you know what that means 😉A lot of tarps had to be put on this home. All done by our combined AZ/NM team…Norm pets a Florida Cracker Sheep…for real…Mailbox…Hurricane Milton, dumb name, I hate him already…
“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalms 34:1 NKJV
Tree blocking driveway. A job we have assessed at many different homes. The NMDR Chainsaw Team tells me, “An easy job.”This dog did not love us like the majority of dogs do. A stray with no collar, just showed up, so the homeowner took him home. She shared with us that she had been asking God to bring a dog into her life …Lunch in a dirt lot, downtown Live Oak Florida…A dangerous hanger, in the front yard…The entire back yard filled with downed trees…
“Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day.” Genesis 1:31 NKJV
Sometimes I feel like this frog. Just hanging around. The day started out great, Sunday school and worship here at Westwood Baptist church was awesome, but things started to spiral out of control. We drove one and half hours trying to find our first home, never did, so we moved on to the other three scheduled with ever increasing rain, which did not make for good ministry. Hopefully a better tomorrow…Norm is with all the other ladies in the party room…Norm is the best Chaplain/assistant assessor ever. I would say that even if I didn’t love her so much!!!
Please be in prayer for our AZDR and NMDR teams that start work for real tomorrow. Thanks…
“The Lord is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him.” Nahum 1:7 NKJV
Early morning for the feeding team from Texas….We didn’t get a lot of it…A new friend, Arthur. He prayed for us…There are a lot of chicken farms here…A tree crushed the roof of this mobile… A big tree is blocking the driveway of this home…Another mobile is destroyed by a tree…What can I say? Dogs love us…We had to move to another church. The first one was really nice, but for some reason we had to move. This is a nice building also. My new digs…
“A man who has friends must himself be friendly,
But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NKJV
Our first assessment, the standard broken or blown down tree in yard that needs to be cut and moved. Normal result from a hurricane…This part of Florida has a lot of dirt roads. We drove quite a few of them today…Cats love us too…Tree branch through the roof! Needs repaired asap…These two large tree branches are hiding half of a mobile home…
“But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”” Romans 10:8-13 NKJV
We arrived in Live Oak, dropped the trailer and were ready to hit the ground running. No, not in Florida, we had to stand fast for a briefing on electronic forms. So this job will have a steep learning curve for us…Always a good site to see …Who knew this was a problem in Florida churches…We got the honey moon suite…Our sleeping quarters double as our office…
“Then she said, “Sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out; for the man will not rest until he has concluded the matter this day.”” Ruth 3:18 NKJV
I forgot to mention how FBC Morgan City fed us so well. Gumbo, jambalaya and another delicious dish that I can’t remember the name of. All very tasty and appreciated…Shout out to the nurses out there…Buc-ess in Alabama…Lunch just west of Pensacola Florida…😂
We are heading to FBC Live Oak Florida to start serving those affected by Hurricane Helene. Should arrive tomorrow before lunch…
“Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, “The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone,” and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.” I Peter 2:7-8 NKJV
We tried our best to find work today. We drove ninety miles in all and got nothing. So, we stopped and ate some cracklins. It seemed to be the right thing to do. They were really good…Robbie makes the most of his cot…NMDR has a really cool chainsaw trailer…Sweet…
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NKJV
Thanks…Crowded conditions on break as we tried to stay out of the sun…Wall to wall carpet had to be removed, so Mark and I teamed up to make short work of this room. Paused just enough to fool around and get this shot…Robbie gets a Pokémon gift from the homeowner…DR Mark in tight quarters…DR Fran sweating the details…Our Chaplain helping DR Teresa …DR Robbie pondering his next move…A rare photo of this guy actually doing some real work…
“Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves.” John 14:9-11 NKJV
FBC Morgan City is a really nice church…It has been a while since we have worked under Oklahoma DR. It has been an eye opening experience. It has been a challenge at times. It has been a pleasure and loads of fun…“Neutral Evil” is what is happening here in the Morgan City Walmart parking lot. I looked it up, shopping cart theory…
“Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. For this One has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as He who built the house has more honor than the house. For every house is built by someone, but He who built all things is God. And Moses indeed was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which would be spoken afterward, but Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house we are if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.” Hebrews 3:1-6 NKJV
We are having a hard time finding work, but when we do, we make the most of it. This was a small job for a great family. Bible signing time…The truck and trailer were pulled into this one lane road. DR Brad did a great job backing out…After lunch, we were asked to take a look at the church roof. Of course we climbed to the challenge and our team fixed all of their missing shingles, keeping the church dry…My dinner date…
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17 NKJV
Robbie showing how it’s done. It was fun to have wood and no drywall to work on…Our team Chaplain, on duty with fellowship and love…Mark is a great teammate and brother in Christ…Diana and Brad removing moldy carpet…FBC Morgan City provided us with a delicious Cajun dinner…I guess you can’t ever have enough sweet tea…
“Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8 NKJV
Are you Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb???This is a great church. Thanks for hosting us all…This house was a bit tight for our nine member team. I manned the recovery trailer while Fran and Norm handled the heavy work outside…A lot of work happening in a small space…We were all blessed today…Dogs love us…This was a house that we looked at, but couldn’t help…Finally, I got a shot at the big time. Up on the roof checking for leaks…Robbie took a great photo from up high…The feet of Jesus.We have had an unfortunate incident occur in this shower unit. One of our teammates was involved. I can’t go into detail, but we do have a new team motto, “Dude, close the curtain!!!”
“This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.” II John 1:6 NKJV
For sure…New day, new job. Blue cap Eldon shows DR Teresa how to handle the electricity issues we deal with…DR Fran and DR Brad take over the same room to start the demolition…Our Chaplain, on the job…DR Diana, removing nails…A lot of nails were removed today…It was really nice to have an air conditioned room to take a break in…It was a real pleasure to serve a first responder…
“Even there Your hand shall lead me, And Your right hand shall hold me.” Psalms 139:10 NKJV
Our first job was canceled, so we headed to our second job for the day. We are a big crew and take up a lot of space on breaks…The ceiling in one of the bathrooms had to come down, so DR Theresa went to work…DR Mark took care of the living room ceiling that also leaked during the hurricane…After some deliberation it was determined that the trim and drywall had to come out…DR Brad took the lead on precision cuts to remove the mold…DR Robbie assisted in the living room…DR Fran is small in stature, but big in heart and ability. Our Blue cap puts her in the tight spots…What can I say???…
“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:28-31 NKJV
I like signs…We finished our first job, with hugs all around. It certainly is hot in Louisiana…Our Chaplain presented a signed Bible to Miss Paula…We had to do some repairs along the way as we dealt with the mold and water damage on Miss Paula’s house. DR Robbie did such a good job, it looks a little artistic…There is just nothing to equal the fellowship at the evening meal. It’s great to visit with other states workers, some we have worked with before…
“But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” I John 1:7 NKJV
We crossed a lot of bridges today…Just a part of the equipment and supplies here at FBC Morgan City. Teams from Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri and, of course, Team Arizona…Sunday evening service…“When Jesus came into the coasts of Cæsarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:13-16 KJV
Sunsets and sunrises are the best. Gifts from the Lord…Buc-ee’s! The best restrooms of all time…hands down the best in the rest stop business. Really, no competition…They care about your dog…They provide for their workers…Mandatory to have a photo taken with the Beaver…We make this mammal look good…
“There is no wisdom or understanding Or counsel against the Lord.” Proverbs 21:30 NKJV
This is about half as much equipment and supplies that will fill the bed of our truck before the end of the day. We left home at 0445 to meet most of the AZDR team in Tucson for our 1535 mile trek to Morgan City Louisiana…All veterans ready to serve…We are praying that God prepares our hearts and the hearts of those we will be helping, that they see the true and living Savior, Jesus Christ, through us…
This year I missed the live telecast of the Little League World Series championship game. Kathie, however, saw it and gave me a recap. Subsequently, I did watch video portions of the game and the post-game interview.
The Lake Mary, FL team represented the Southeast region of the US. Chinese Taipei represented the Asia-Pacific region. They advanced through the championship rounds in Williamsport, PA, and met for the championship game on August 25th.
Taipei had a 1-0 lead going into the bottom of the 6th inning (the last regular inning in Little League baseball). With two outs and two on, the Florida batter hit a soft liner to left field, scoring the runner who had been at second base. Two extra innings were played. In the bottom of the 8th Lake Mary had runners at first and second. The next batter, Hunter Anderson, laid a bunt down along the first base line. The Taipei pitcher fielded the bunt and threw towards first for the third out. Except no Taipei player was covering the bag; the ball flew into right field, and the runner on second scored. Lake Mary won 2-1. What happened next is why I am writing this devotional.
Not surprisingly, the Lake Mary team rushed on the field hugging Hunter and Lathan Norton, who scored the winning run. Though excited, they cut short their personal celebration and formed a line to shake hands with Taipei players and coaches. When the handshaking was done, you could see some of the Taipei players crying. Manager Jonathan Anderson wrapped his arms around the disconsolate Taipei pitcher. Lake Mary players hugged and consoled their distraught opponents. An Orlando Sentinel editorial summarized the post-game this way: “that image of human kindness and connection … will dwell in the hearts and memories of Lake Mary fans … “
Acts of kindness are not something those ballplayers were born with. They, like us, had been instructed, based on the word of God. The players’ coaches were a model. We are to do to others as we would want them to do to us (Matthew 7:12). Even in victory, we should also look to the interests of the losers (cf., Philippians 2:4). Those 12-year-olds from Florida are an inspiration to those of us who have, over the years, lost some of that perspective.
There is also a second lesson found in this Little League game. Shortly after the game ended, but before the press conference, someone asked Hunter Anderson about his bunt. He did not elaborate on his skill, but rather, simply said he did what the coach told him to do. His comment is an apt reminder of what Jesus, our great coach, told us. And modeled. If we love the Lord, we will obey what He has commanded (John 14:15).
Too often we get caught up in the desire to win, and forget how to be winners. We win first prize at the fair for our apple pie, and act as if we are the perfect baker. We are nominated to be a deacon in our church, then behave as if we wrote the New Testament.
Lake Mary ball players won a close ballgame, then demonstrated how to be true winners. If they had lost the game, could they still be winners? I believe the answer is yes, provided they understood the true meaning of love your neighbor. Sure, they might have cried, but they would have had a moment to share in their opponent’s joy. A game well played by two winners.
Win and winner, lose and winner, are the same result to different outcomes. The Lord would be pleased in either case.
“So he brought the people down to the water. And the Lord said to Gideon, “Everyone who laps from the water with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set apart by himself; likewise everyone who gets down on his knees to drink.”
And the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was three hundred men; but all the rest of the people got down on their knees to drink water.
Then the Lord said to Gideon, “By the three hundred men who lapped I will save you, and deliver the Midianites into your hand. Let all the other people go, every man to his place.”” Judges 7:5-7 NKJV
Is this a lesson in, ‘divine election’ and man’s, ‘free will?’ Yes. This is the way that the two work together.
Argue about it if you want to, but in real life, it works!
It works because it is God’s way…
Each one of the ten thousand men in Gideon’s army exercised his free will. God did not interfere with their choice at all.
“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” John 6:37 NKJV
You cannot argue election! You just can’t…
Good news- you can come to God if you want to…your the elect…
The bad news- if you don’t want to come to God- you are not elected…
“In this day of gathering storms, as moral deterioration of political power spreads its growing infection, it is essential that every spiritual force be mobilized to defend and preserve the religious base upon which this nation is founded; for it has been that base which has been the motivating impulse to our moral and national growth. History fails to record a single precedent in which nations subject to moral decay have not passed into political and economic decline. There has been either a spiritual reawakening to overcome the moral lapse, or a progressive deterioration leading to ultimate national disaster.”
Last month there was a colossal failure in computer systems around the world.1Airline flights were cancelled, financial markets disrupted, and industrial operations faltered. The failure appeared to involve just business computers using Microsoft Windows systems. A cybersecurity company, CrowdStrike, delivered a defective update that produced the computer crashes.
When computers crashed in 1993 while using Widows 3.0, Microsoft referred to it as a “blue screen of death” error. A computer, unable to operate safely, generates a blue screen and a message error in white print. Experts referred to the problem as a “stop error” since Windows stopped working.
Apparently, stop errors are hard to fix. The reason for the failure can be generally understood, but the specifics are more complex. One expert explained the error occurs at “the deepest levels of the operating system, where detailed interactions with hardware occur.” I did, though, understand his examples: problems with memory or overheating.
A variety of ways to fix blue screen of death errors were offered online, nearly all were above my level of comprehension. One fix I could understand was to turn your computer on and off 15 times; a universal problem solver!!
Stop errors have been around since the time God created the first mobile computer, man. Adam and Eve had perfectly functioning minds until they installed an update offered by a serpent (Genesis 3:1). Shortly thereafter, they had a stop error that included a message from God to stop living in the Garden of Eden.
Since then, we have all been living with imperfect minds that can produce critical errors. The Israelites installed an update for something to lead them to the Promised Land since Moses had been on Mt Sinai a long time (Exodus 32). Their system crashed because of a golden calf update, and they would experience the equivalent of the blue screen of death, a plague (32:35), as well as the death of the whole generation because of their unfaithfulness (Numbers 14:26-32).
At the deepest levels of our heart and mind we have defects leading to all kinds of evil that will destroy us (Proverbs 6:12-15). Offering sacrifices or living by our own standards may give us a sense of worthiness, but it is really just overheating our thought processes to the point of stop errors in our commitment to the Lord.
In the postmodern world we are offered updates so bizarre and complex we think they must surely work. Put something up your nose. Swallow a pill. Join a cult. Tear out pages of the Bible, keep what suits you. Change your identity. The list goes on.
Perhaps one of the most popular fixes is to turn God off and on 15 times. Attend worship awhile and then stop going for a year or so. Come back when there are cantatas. Pray as long as it feels good, when it doesn’t, stop. Resume when you have a need. Live as you would six days a week, then ask the Lord to forgive you on Sunday.
The Son of God brought to earth the only fix possible for our spiritual blue screen of death (John 3:16). Confessed faith in Jesus gives us a whole new operating system (2 Corinthians 5:17). The blue screen of our sinful life is replaced by a white robe of eternal life (Revelation 3:5).
Dogs love us. We encountered quite a few dogs, many with no apparent owner. They were all very laid back and eager for a treat…It’s always great to find scripture…It was hot…A lot of bamboo has been planted on the reservation. It is good and bad. It does provide a cooling effect and a natural fence, it also burns really well and leaves about a four to six inch tall stick that is easy to trip over…Did I mention the heat???…This is one of the saddest sights on the reservation. These bottles were everywhere! The fire did not help any as many sites were literally covered in broken glass. Alcohol is a poison…
“And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the Lord spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as on the day that Moses sent me; just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war, both for going out and for coming in.” Joshua 14:10-11 NKJV
Caleb, along with Joshua were the only two spies to give a positive report. We have the Lord of the universe, we can take this land. The nine tribes and the half are to have their inheritance by lot. Caleb obtains Hebron, by privilege!
Caleb had found the fountain of youth- the first is to have the Faith to forget the past, second, have Faith to face the facts, and third, Faith to face the future…
Late last evening we got instructions to demobilize our teams and head home. This is just part of the great men and women we had the privilege and blessing to serve with…When it comes to towing, this is a “No Go.”This is more of a good look. It’s a “Go.”
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NKJV
We found a Mickey mug, intact on one of our last sites. Always strange what you find in a burn…It was hard finding neutral to push this Kawasaki over for pickup…We had the privilege to clean up Samual and Nadine’s home area today. It was very interesting speaking with them and watching their 16 or so cats and kittens running about. Here we are giving them a Bible signed by the team…Once we got back to base we took everything out of the small Recovery Unit, cleaned it and the tools thoroughly. With the help of Russ, Bryce and Brad, we installed rails, hooks, D rings, and repaired some sections inside the unit…The finished product…An organized unit is a happy unit…
“He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.” Proverbs 10:17 NKJV
A God given, God made sunrise over Globe Arizona…This is Shadow. Dogs love us…This was Nathan’s home. Just to the right and in front of my truck is the makeshift shack he lives in now. He told us an incredible description of leaving the home just seconds before it was consumed by the Watch Fire…This is our new friend Nathan, with DR Russ…This is what the fire did to a power pole near Nathan’s property…Norm presented Nathan with a Bible signed by our team. We prayed for Nathan and then he asked if he could pray for us. It was a very emotional moment, not any dry eyes…Some of Nathan’s neighbors…
“but has in due time manifested His word through preaching, which was committed to me according to the commandment of God our Savior;” Titus 1:3 NKJV
This how we all look at the first job site. Prayed up and masked up…And our first break, sweated up. From left to right, DR Russ, Brad, and Diana…In the middle, DR Bryce, to the right, DR Michelle…Still has air, a true super hero ball…
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”” Joshua 1:8-9 NKJV
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1 NKJVOh happy day! This is not our truck, but it is right behind me with Norm at the wheel. Thanks to Diesel and More for the quick service…I am told this operation had to take place because a “wonky eyebrow” had to be eradicated. Sorry Brad…We found part of the Bible at a site today…The local radio station…Downtown San Carlos…Norm just tried to feed a local dog. Russ said the dog preferred arms…It is so hot, almost anything is funny…My favorite monkey…Thanks to our laundry team. Clean clothes and a Word from the Lord…
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24 NKJV
We got a much earlier start to our work day. Fires are still burning on the San Carlos reservation in uninhabited areas to the north…We are very grateful for the help of heavy equipment from the Tribal Council…Our team is always strategizing…A dusty environment…The Grandfather built this house and placed the names of his grandchildren on the outside walls. This is the only name that survived the fire. We could not work on this house, asbestos…On break, we always try to find shade…When we fill a dumpster, we get another. It’s a great system…This home finished, we presented a signed Bible to Mark and Mary…“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so.” Proverbs 3:27 …
