Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at Murdock Christian Church in Port Charlotte this morning.
• The topic for this morning's message was "An Uncommon Place"
• Key thought #1, Small items, when given to God have a big impact.
• Key thought #2, God transforms the common to make it uncommon.
• With my visit to MCC, I have now visited 168 different churches as Director of Advancement for JUFL.
• Oh, the things I have seen! Maybe one day I will write a book about my experiences!
• MCC is a small church, under 100, but I had connections with 5 different families today from three of the churches I have served in the past. It really is a small world! 
• Extra special treat today; I was able to visit with my daughter on my way back home - Good Times!
• 2019 is almost over, a new year is upon us, new opportunities and new challenges, but through it all, God has everything under HIS control.
• I love Candlelight Christmas Eve worship services!
• There is something special about seeing an auditorium illuminated by candlelight as a reminder Jesus is the light of the world!
• College football season is over, now we can cut the cable cord!
• Speaking of College Football, it looks like it is going to be an all Tiger affair for the National Championship.
• My 2020 reading list contains 2 devotionals, two books of fiction and two books for personal growth.  I will be adding more soon, but this is a good start.
• Something to Chew on; When your dream is bigger than you are, you only have two choices: give up or get help. ~ John Maxwell 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing day...

• I finished up a series of messages at First Christian Church Cocoa Beach this morning.
• If one is going to have a RIGHT Christmas they must have the right response to Christmas.
• How do we respond to the knowledge that God is with us?
• The shepherds in Bethlehem had the right response; once they saw the Christ Child, they worshiped!
• I am looking forward to Christmas Eve worship! It is a wonderful way to respond to the news a savior is born!
• Reading Luke 22 today is a stark reminder the babe in Bethlehem was born to save us from our sins.
• Great time with my small group Friday evening, great dinner and great friends! 
• I read this interesting stat this week, 1 billion dollars in Christmas gift cards go unspent every year.
• What does it profit a man if he finds a perfect parking spot at the Mall yet loses his soul?
• Celebrated my 61st birthday this past week, at one time I thought 60 was old, now it is just a number!
• Saturdays are not the same without College Game Day!
• Ok teacher friends, the school year is half over, I hope you enjoy your break!
• The fins season is almost over, thankfully! I guess there is always next year!
• Something to Chew on; “Each day we are becoming a creature of splendid glory or one of unthinkable horror.” C.S. Lewis
• I have to be honest this quote pierced my heart!

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at FCC Cocoa Beach this morning. Continuing the series,, "I'm dreaming of a RIGHT Christmas"
• To have a right Christmas one must have a right pace.
• Key Thought#1, are we so busy doing Christmas we forget to celebrate Christmas?
• Key Thought #2,  The Christmas season is a constant reminder God is faithful to keep his promises. 
• Once again, I met some friends from a previous ministry this morning, it truly is a small world.
• If I could describe Christmas with only one word it would be JOY!
• I know how the movie ends, but every year I must watch "It is a Wonderful Life" at least once during the Christmas season. 
• I received a pleasant surprise today as I was able to have lunch with brother and his wife. Good Times.
• We had a wonderful night at JUFL's Night of Noel. Great crowd and it was good to see so many friends of the college. 
• I am very appreciative of all the hard work our faculty, staff, and students did to make Night of Noel a success. We could not have accomplished such a wonderful day without you!
• I think some people are hoarding the Oreo White Fudge Covered Cookies, I am having a difficult time finding them in stores this year. Not a good thing.
• This week JUFL students have finals, Let the "Cramming" begin!
• Hey teacher friends, hang in there only five more days!
• Something to Chew on; The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means God with us. Matthew 1:23, This Christmas let that verse bring you JOY!

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at First Christian Church of Cocoa Beach this morning.
• Kicked off the Christmas season with a message entitled, "I am dreaming of a RIGHT Christmas" 
• Key thought #1, If we are going to have a right Christmas we must have the right focus.
• Key thought #2, It is too bad we do not have auto-focus when it comes to Christmas, many of us need to refocus if we are going celebrate Christmas in a proper way.
• From this week's Luke 24 challenge; They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him off the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way. Luke 4:29-30. I don't recall ever hearing a message on this passage.
• A quick visit to Jacksonville to visit my mom. She sent me home with lots of Christmas cookies, yes, it is the most wonderful time of the year!
• There are times when our small group goes in an unexpected direction, last week was one of those times!
• Next Saturday is our annual Night of Noel at JUFL, it looks to be a wonderful night.
• To my Osceola County friends, why can't we finish Hwy 192? PAVE THE ROAD!
• Orange Bowl Bound!
• People are freaking out over an exercise bike commercial, what scares me is the KFC commercial with the Colonel and Mrs. Butterworth! 
• Something to Chew on; She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.” ~ Gabriel, Matthew 1:21

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at the Christian Church of Deleon Springs this morning.
• Key thought from this morning's message, Wisdom is seeing life through God's perspective.
• Key thought #2, When faced with problems in this life, we can either choose to be better or we can become bitter, I choose to be better.
• Great time reconnecting with several friends.
• One of our JUFL students led worship today and did a wonderful job! Thanks, Will!
• I am taking the Luke 24 Challenge this Christmas, I will be using the English Standard Version for my readings.
• What is the Luke 24 Challenge? The book of Luke has 24 chapters. Join me over the next 24 days by reading a chapter a day and on Christmas morning we will have a much better understanding of what this season is all about!
• Spent Thursday in Orange Park with my mom and two brothers for Thanksgiving, Good times!
• No kids table this year!
• My mom is an old school cook! No recipes, just a pinch of this and a dash of that and before you know it, we have a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner!  
• With the rise of online shopping will Black Friday one day go the way of Blockbuster video stores?
• Now that the regular season of college football is coming to a close it will not be long until the college bowl season is upon us!
• There are only a few weeks left in this semester, looks like the campus library is getting a little more traffic lately.
• Something to Chew on; If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, become more, you are a leader. ~ John Quincy Adams

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at First Christian Church of Cocoa Beach this morning.
• A very gracious congregation, it is evident grace is a part of the DNA of the congregation.
• I have visited 167 churches as Director of Advancement for JUFL; I can say the variety of church experiences around the state reminds me there is no one way to "do church."
• FCC Cocoa Beach is truly playing to their strengths.
• A special bonus about visiting the coast today, I was able to have lunch with my oldest son and his family, Good times!
• I was also able to see a good friend today as well, so good to see you, Dave! 
• I attended a breakfast Saturday at JUFL to explore how diversity is impacting the church today. To be on the "ground floor" of this venture is exciting. 
• I had to visit the Genius Bar at the Apple store today, and yes are geniuses, I feel like I have a new computer.
• In one month it will be Christmas eve.
• But before we focus on Christmas, Let's remember Thursday is a to be a day of thanks for all of our many blessings.
• What do you mean we there are only a few days left to the regular college football season. 
• To my teacher friends, I hope you have a great break this week, you deserve it!  
• Something to Chew on; We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives. ~ John F. Kennedy

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• I preached at Southwest Christian Church in Ocala this morning on the topic of grace.
• The key point from the message, God always recognizes people of grace not by their words but by their actions.
• There is something comforting about old hymns, music truly is the language of the heart.
• Watched a man in a wheelchair serving the congregation communion this morning, what is holding you back from serving others?
• I also gave a University Update to a combined Bible School class this morning. There is something special about sharing our story with people unfamiliar with JUFL.
• Rekindled a friendship with a college classmate today, it is so hard to imagine we have known each other for over 40 years.
• Savannah turned 7 this week, time goes by so fast!
• I do not like the ending of daylight savings time, dark at 5:30 p.m., who thought that was a good idea? 
• Sometimes you just want a good doughnut! 
• School teachers are superheroes and by the way, they do not need capes or superpowers! 
• I visited my teenage home today, I wish I could say it was a pleasant experience, unfortunately, the neighborhood has changed and not for the better. Sad to see what has happened to the house my dad built.
• Wawa hot chocolate really hits the spot!
• Something to Chew on; He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has. ~ Epictetus

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Vero Christian Church this morning.
• Steve did a great job speaking on the subject of an ordinary day with an extraordinary God.
• Key thought from the message; Irritations can reveal our character, but we should use the irritations to experience the grace of God when we look to Him. 
• Communion thought; Forgiveness always has a price! May we never forget the price that was paid for our redemption. 
• I left Kissimmee this morning at 5:50, but God allowed me to see a wonderful sunrise, well worth the early morning drive! His use of colors is amazing.
• Just in case you are curious, there are no traffic jams at 5:50 in the morning 
• My annual visit to Vero Christian was encouraging, they are great friends of JUFL and it is always good to see what God is doing through the ministry of VCC.
• Celebrated my oldest son's birthday this weekend, how can he be 39 years old? I guess I blinked!
• The fins have a 2 games win streak, should I begin looking for playoff tickets?
• Question; How can you blow out a team by 56 points and drop in the polls?
• 28 of our students are traveling to Kansas City this week for the International Conference on Missions. Praying for safety as well as open hearts and minds as they seek mission opportunities.
• Tomorrow is Veterans Day, I want to thank my dad, his brothers and my brother for their service to our country. SALUTE!
• Something to Chew on; Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few. ~ Winston Churchill, 1940

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning.
• I witnessed the baptismal waters stir once again, this never gets old.
• The morning message focused on Gratitude from the small Old Testament book of Habakkuk.
• To recapture a spirit of gratitude one needs to focus on two "R's" Remember and Rejoice. Remember what God has done for you and Rejoice that he remains faithful in His love toward us.
• A second message I heard today focused on the life of Jonah. 
• The key point of the message, Jonah knew the heart of God, but he did not have the heart of God. 
• In our preaching, we must remember the goal is not information, but transformation! Keep that in mind and our preaching will be powerful.
• A friend sent me a picture of the white chocolate Oreos this past weekend - yes it is the most wonderful time of the year.
• Breaking News, The FINS won today, and it was not on local TV. Why?
• I watched the lighting of Cinderella's castle at WDW tonight via Lifestream tonight - I am making it a point to see it live during the Christmas season. 
• No one does the holidays like Disney!
• Oh no, only three weeks left in the college football season.
• 5:45 and it is dark!
• Something to Chew on; It is hard to convince people that a God they cannot see loves them when a church they can see does not seem to like them. ~ John Allen Turner

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning.
• Dr. Chambers and I recognized the church for their faithfulness in serving and in generosity.
• So good to celebrate such faithfulness!
• Speaking of generosity it is nice to hear the reports of Pastor Appreciation Month.
• While gifts are nice for your pastor during this time of year, it is more important to pray and support your pastor every day. 
• Ministry is a high calling, so ministers, make sure you are praying for your congregation daily as well.
• I spent some time in South Florida with a good friend in ministry. So exciting to see what God is doing through Scott and his team.
• Spent some time last week planning the future of my department at JUFL, the future is both challenging and exciting!  
• When churches remember to keep the main thing the main thing it is amazing to see how God moves!
• Saturday night I had the opportunity to see Les Miserables, I still have a couple of the songs going through my head! Wonderful play, wonderful date!
• How can there only be 5 weeks left in the college football season?
• There are only 54 days left until winter, that means something to people living outside of Florida, for us, it means another day in paradise! 
• Something to Chew on; Let every person abide in the calling wherein they are called and their work will be as sacred as the work of ministry. It is not what a person does that determines whether their work is sacred or secular, it is why they do it! ~ A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God, The Human Thirst for the Divine.

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Christ's Church of Orlando this morning. 
• Great fellowship serving the South Downtown area of Orlando.
• The minister kicked off a new sermon series; "The Bible Tells Me So" focusing on God's revelation to us via scripture. 
• One thing about traveling around the state representing JUFL is I never get to hear a minister's complete sermon series.
• Their connections ministry is top-notch, very welcoming and helpful to guests visiting the church. 
• Interesting quote from the message; If I could see as God sees, I would do ad God says.
• Attended my first UCF football game this past weekend, I now know why the stadium is called the "Bounce House"
• So thankful for strong building codes!
• The Ultimate evening snack; a Panera Chocolate Chip Cookie and a glass of cold milk. Good stuff!
• I connected with some old friends from my days in youth ministry today, although it was a very brief visit it was so good to see them again. 
• Christan friendships simply give us a preview of the fellowship we will enjoy in heaven.
• Something to Chew on; When you examine the Word of God, the Word of God examines you. ~ Jack Wellman

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Chrisitan Church this morning.
• The message focused on the authority of God's word.
• It is comforting to know we have a book that is not defined by human reasoning, but by the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Tony was right, we do not get what we deserve, Thank you, Jesus!
• I am thankful for the App "YouVersion", this is a great tool for study and devotional reading.
• I spent part of the week at the Spire Conference in Orlando. 
• Inspiring, challenging and encouraging, all three words described last week's conference.
• Connected with several alumni who are involved in a variety of church planting ventures. It was so good to hear their stories!
• I do not say this enough, but the student workers who work in my department at JUFL are top-notch. Thank you, Kiara and Kayla. I so appreciate both of you!
• Speaking of appreciation, this month is clergy appreciation month, I hope you will have the opportunity to show some appreciation to your minister.
• When my kids visit, I am reminded of the blessing of family! I am blessed because all my children live less than 2 hours away from me.
• What did we do before Crock Pots? 
• Tonight is the 475th Sunday Night Reflection.  
• Something to Chew on; If you want to change the world, go home and love your family. ~ Mother Teresa

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning.
• Jim preached one of the finest messages on Christian Apologetics I have heard in a long time.
• There is a reason for our faith!
• Faith or Chance, there really is not a choice! One gives you endless hope, while the other leads to a hopeless end. 
• I enjoy our small group, a great fellowship, a caring community, and the desserts are not bad either!
• This week we discussed snakes, loincloths and other items that cause us to fear in this life.
• One item we discussed Friday was how a healthy fear of the Lord will give us the courage to overcome the world’s fears and help us to do all that God calls us to do.
• A faithful servant is retiring from his ministry this week. Lee, you have done a wonderful job leading God's people in Sarasota. Looking forward to hearing about the next chapter in your life. Thank you for your faithfulness.
• Today I was reminded once again how much I hate cancer. Looking forward to "The Day" when cancer and all other diseases will be banished forever!
• Watching the fireworks at Disney never gets old.
• There are only 86 days left in 2019, are you making every day count?
• Good News, the Dolphins did not lose today! They had a bye, but they did not lose! 
• Something to Chew on;  True prayer is neither a mere mental exercise nor a vocal performance. It is far deeper than that - it is a spiritual transaction with the Creator of Heaven and Earth. ~ Charles Spurgeon

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning.
• The message focused on stewardship, looking at the idea of giving creatively.
• So good to see the student ministry taking the lead in serving today. 
• Key thought from the message; Giving is not based on one's resources but on the willing heart.
• Said goodbye to our young alumni coordinator this week, Amber is going to work at Stadia. I am so appreciative of all Amber has done to support the Advancement department of JUFL - She will be missed. 
• I am really enjoying teaching on Wednesday evenings. I must confess, I miss preaching and teaching in the local church. There is no greater joy than studying God's word and then passing along to others!
• We are less than 90 days from being able to buy White Chocolate Oreos.
• What happened to September?
• Something to Chew on; You cannot always wait for the perfect time. Sometimes you must dare to jump. ~ Unknown

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning.
• A wonderful time of worship and teaching.
• What are you investing in today?
• Will it have eternal significance?
• We sang my favorite hymn this morning, Holy, Holy, Holy
• I hope that is one of the first songs we sing our first day in Heaven.
• I really enjoy teaching on Wednesday evenings, I have preached serval messages from the life of Abraham, this set of in-depth lessons have given me a better appreciation of this friend of God.
• I am not sure if I can handle many more Saturday nights like last night. 
• If at all possible, I would like to relax in the fourth quarter! Please!
• Is there any more dangerous position in college football than quarterback?
• Just read this week's college rankings, when will UCF receive some love?
• Bought my first Christmas gift this week for someone. I am such an overachiever!
• Something to Chew on; God cannot give us happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing. ~ C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity 

 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at First Christian Church of Cocoa Beach this morning.
• The message focused on developing a real faith 
• Key thought; Faith is more than believing in God, Faith always moves one to act on that belief. 
• Even though the church at Cocoa Beach is small, their fellowship was so genuine.
• Seeing the many of the businesses and homes that remained "boarded up" in Cocoa Beach reminded me how fortunate we were to dodge a massive storm.
• I was also reminded of how catastrophic was the storm to the Bahamian people.
• If you are looking for an inspiring, family-friendly movie to see, you should go see "Overcomer", you will be moved.
• You know you are seeing a good movie when you hear audience participation in the theater. 
• Pro football kicked off this weekend. My apologies to Simon and Garfunkle, but where have you gone Mr.  Shula, Mr. Marino, and Mr. Csonka.
• When the TV announcer says the Fins are the worst team in football, you know it is going to be a long season. 
• This weekend would have been my mom and dad's 62nd wedding anniversary, really wish my dad was alive to celebrate with my mom. They had a WONDERFUL marriage!
• Attended the MercyMe concert at Epcot last week, to hear the SRO crowd sing Amazing Grace at the end of the concert was very moving.
• How can I have a favorite worship song when new music is written every week, "Grace like a Wave" is another good worship song, you can listen to it here.
• Something to Chew on; I have put before you an open door which no one can shut. ~ Jesus, Revelation 3:8

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning. 
• Message from Luke 12 regarding the importance of stewardship.
• Key thought from the message, money is not evil, nor good, but how it is used determines it's value.
• I want to be a faithful steward of what God has given me.
• I am enjoying teaching on Wednesday nights at Kissimmee C.C.
• We have spent three weeks studying Genesis 12 and 13. So much material to cover.
• Looks like the Hurricane will remind us once again we really do not have control much in this life.
• Prayer request; please pray for the students of JUFL. They have had only 1 week of classes under their belt and now the Hurricane has canceled classes this week. Pray for the freshmen that they will not lose heart and they will return after the storm is over.
• Second prayer request, pray the campus will have minimal damage from the storm.
• As the hurricane slows down, we must be careful not to let complacency set in.
• Oreos are the perfect snack cookie, but when it comes to Hurricane snacks, Oreos must be "Double Suff"
• A couple of football games have surprised me this past weekend. I guess that is why you have to PLAY the game! You simply cannot "mail it in."
• Today is Sept. 1, in four months it will be 2020. Hard to image Y2K was 20 years ago!
• Something to Chew on; You answer us with awesome and righteous deeds, God and Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth. You stiled the roaring seas and the roaring of the waves. ~ David, The Shepherd King from Psalm 65 

Sunday Nnight Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at First Christian Church of Arcadia this morning. 
• The message focused on my favorite topic; Grace.
• Key thought #1 today, we live in a world that no longer desires truth, but so desperately needs grace!
• Key thought #2, because of God's grace, we are compelled to live faithfully in an unfaithful world.
• I had lunch with some very good friends today, loved spending time with them.
• I loved the gifts they brought me, cookies, bread and a special gift, a drinking cup shaped like a football. Too Funny!
• The students are back! Let the teaching begin.
• Why does the freshmen class look so young this year?
• Has it really been 42 years since I was a freshman?
• Over the next couple of months, a couple of ministers in Florida are retiring from fruitful ministries. Well done men!
• College football is back, hey gators, how about closing down your opponent early in the 4th quarter, last night was too close for comfort.  
• To all my teacher friends, you really are making a difference!
• Churches that lift teachers up in prayer understand the influence a teacher has on our culture.
• Something to Chew on; My Grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ~ God 2 Corinthians 12:9

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning. 
• Message on living a fearless life.
• Living fearlessly gives me the confidence to serve, love and face eternity.
• The testimony during the message was very inspiring, yes we all have a responsibility to live out Christ in this hurting world.
• I had lunch with some wonderful people this afternoon. 
• Some people are just easy to talk to even when you barely know them.
• Once again we were reminded this week life is fragile and there is a hurting person in every worship service.
• From last week's Bible Study; Our faith is developed when we passionately and deliberately seek God's will for our life. 
• The freshmen class arrives on campus this Friday. They don't realize how their lives are going to change over the next 4 years. 
• I accidentally erased some important information from my computer last week, However, our IT Department was able to retrieve the information, so I am officially calling Monday Hug your IT Team Day!
• My word for the week; BACK UP YOUR FILES!
• I have noticed my house is VERY quiet after my kids go back to their homes!
• I am announcing now, I will not be available Saturday evening - yep, college football is back!
• Something to Chew on; Every choice to follow God's leading involves sacrifice, at least the sacrifice of our own desires. ~ Chuck Swindoll 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at First Christian Church Clearwater this morning.
• Great message on how to react when you are misjudged by others.
• Let us look to Jesus as the prime example of how to relate to others who misjudge us. 
• There is only one Biblical way to react when you have been misjudged by others; PRACTICE FORGIVENESS!
• A wonderful time of worship as the team helped us connect with Jesus this morning. The A'capella element was moving to say the least!
• I always enjoy sharing the JUFL story. From the early days to today, God has been active in training men and women for ministry and other strategic vocations at JUFL.
• Received a special gift for our school's computer lab today. I am always humbled by the generosity of God's people.
• I begin teaching at Kissimmee Christian Church this coming Wednesday evening. Looking forward to diving into the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob!
• I was able to see all three of my children this weekend, a good time was had by all.
• Savannah and I had a wonderful time at Disney Friday.  When you have your granddaughter with you, it really is the happiest place on earth. 
• Mickey Mouse Ice Cream bars really hit the spot!
• I know it is only pre-season, but football is back!
• Something to Chew on; Forgiveness provides hope, joy and a bright future that nothing else can. ~ Paul J. Meyer

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• I was able to hear two good messages this weekend. One on the topic of Godly Fear and the other on the importance of trusting God and not trusting in our own self-sufficiency.
• Every time I think I hear my favorite worship song, a new week reveals a new song. It really is true, He does put a new song in our heart.
• Saw the baptismal waters stirred once again, this never gets old.
• Reflecting on friendship tonight.
• So blessed to have good friends in my life.
• God has brought so many people into my life. They truly are an encouragement to my soul. 
• From last week's small group study; Peace is a result of obedience to God and assurance that He is in control. 
• True peace is not only a calm exterior, but it is also a quiet heart.
• Dayton and El Paso once again remind us the world needs Jesus. 
• Only 20 days to go, if you know me, you know what I am talking about!
• Disney with Savannah this week, Papa and Savannah Time! I doubt we will visit the Hall of Presidents!
• I am trying to decide if I want to try a plant-based burger! Friends tell me they are good, we will have to see.
• Please, no plant-based Oreos! 
• Something to Chew on; I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea. Isaiah 48:17-18

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning. 
• Fine message from the life of Titus.
• Great points about the importance of discipleship in the church.
• Without discipleship, we discover a shallow and narrow-minded church.
• So good to see so many teens make commitments at CIY Move last week.
• Thank you, Lance and Kellie, for all you do in the student ministry. 
• From this week's Bible Study, there are 3 places Christians should experience joy; At Salvation, During Trials, and At Death! 
• Spotted Fall Decorations in a local department store this week, It is too hot to be thinking about Pumpkin Spice right now!
• In less than 30 days the class of 2023 will show up at JUFL.
• If you want to meet your neighbors, walk your dog!
• I had a Spaghetti Salad for supper this past weekend, very tasty! Actually, I wish I had another serving right now!
• OK teachers, only a few more days left, maybe we should have a moment of silence to pay tribute to the death of summer.
• Publix has a new homestyle vanilla ice creme that is so good, this could be trouble. 
• Something to Chew on; I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. ~ Jesus, Revelation 3:8

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church this morning.
• A powerful message on the need for faithfulness in a corrupt world. 
• Key thought, we must be mindful there are people around us who desire to sidetrack us from following God's will. Yet we must be faithful to God's call in our life.  
• So good to reconnect with good friends this morning. Summer schedules make it tough to stay connected.
• Watching the celebrations of the moon landing this weekend has been inspiring. 
• Seeing CBS anchorman Walter Cronkite eyes get moist as he reported the landing reminds us what an amazing achievement it was to land on the moon.
• Has it really been 25 years since the original Lion King was in theaters?
• Saw my first 2019 College Football commercial onTV this afternoon, It will not be long now!
• I began preparing the lessons for my Wednesday Night Bible Study I am teaching this Fall at  Kissimmee Christian last week,  I really enjoy teaching the Bible.
• Hey meteorologist, it is supposed to be hot, it is Summer!
• So thankful I have access to what Jed Clampet called "A Cement Pond."
• Something to Chew on; Dear Children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. ~ The Apostle John (1 John 3:18)

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Chrisitan Church this morning. 
• Jim's message came from Colossians 4:6, "Let your conversation be full of grace."
• In a world that throws around all kinds of accusations and bitterness, imagine what this world would be like if we all made a point to be gracious in every conversation!
• A wonderful time of worship this weekend as well. Also, who knew the tooth fairy was cutting back on the amount of money she is leaving under pillows today.
• Speaking of the tooth fairy, I am assuming the tooth fairy is a female.
• Spent some time this week with 11 ministers, so good to hear how God is working through such a diverse group of men. 
• On August 14th I begin a 16-week teaching series on the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at Kissimmee Christian Church, I am looking forward to "Camping out" in the book of Genesis for a while.
• I really enjoy the time I have with my small group on Friday nights.
• Why are white chocolate Oreos available only for the Christmas Season?
• Something to Chew on; Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. ~ The Apostle Paul, Colossians 4:2

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at Union Park Chrisitan Church this morning.
• Only had to drive 29 miles one way today, oh that was so nice!
• The message came from the Book of James; How to profit from problems.
• While we all have problems, we learn to profit from our problems by seeing problems through God's perspective. 
• God's perspective to a problem brings about wisdom and maturity. 
• While we face all types of problems, the most difficult problems to handle and understand are the mysterious problems of which we have no explanation. 
• Worship today was accompanied by several guitars, we had kind of a bluegrass feel.
• Had lunch with a good friend Tuesday, The only downside; lunch was not long enough! Last time we got together was 4 years ago. 
• A swimming pool is a slice of heaven this time of year.
• This never happens, but I saw 3 movies in 6 days this past week, that is a lot of popcorn!
• Finished another John Grisham novel this past week, always good entertainment.
• Something to Chew on; Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. ~ David, The Shepherd King (Psalm 37:4)

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Kissimmee Christian Church today.
• The sermon this week really hit home as I was informed of several painful events in friends lives over the last 48 hours.
• There really is a broken heart in every pew every Sunday.
• What do people do if Jesus is not a part of their life when a crisis hits?
• So thankful we have a God who is near to us.
• Key thought from a message I heard this week, The question is not are we will willing to suffer for Christ, the question is are we willing to be obedient to Him. 
• Sobering fact; Every month 345 Christians die as a result of persecution.
• Half of 2019 is over, what do you have planned for the next 6 months?
• When Bethany is home, my dog Lilly ignores me!
• Just in case you are curious about the start of the college football season, you can check out this link.
• Something to Chew on; Lord make me an instrument of your peace, where there is hatred, let me sow love. ~ Francis of Assisi 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Vero Christian Church this morning.
• Steve preached a message on the importance of men in the church.
• One characteristic of a growing church is a vibrant men's ministry.
• Watching the church's baptism video was inspiring. 
• One thing about traveling at 6:00 on a Sunday morning; NO TRAFFIC!
• I really cannot say enough about the value of a godly man when it comes to solid friendships. 
• National Bible Bowl Tournament was last on our campus, amazing how fast the students could answer their questions.
• It was also amazing how many Tater Tots they could consume at lunchtime.
• Channel surfing yesterday and came across the movie "Mad Monkey Kung Fu" I really miss College Football!
• From this week's devotion; Do your commitments match your convictions? We all have convictions, but do we live daily committed to our convictions?
• Something to Chew on; The first thing in all progress is to leave something behind. ~ George MacDonald

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Great weekend of worship.
• I heard a message on obedience as well as a message on suffering this weekend. 
• The importance of fathers in the spiritual development of the family cannot be denied. Dads, we make a difference.
• It is sad to see how our culture wants to degrade fatherhood.
• Doughnuts for Dads was a fun way to show appreciation for dads today.
• Missing Dad today. If your dad has passed you understand.
• Do dads receive ties for father's day any more?
• Busy time at JUFL this week as we host the National Bible Bowl tournament. 
• There is no quieter place on earth than your home after the children leave.
• People waited 10 hours for a ride in one of our amusement parks in Central Florida this week, really!
• What would you wait in line 10 hours for?
• Father's Day meal; Japanese Steakhouse, good stuff.
• Something to Chew on; Every father should remember one day his child will follow his example, not his advice. ~ Charles Kettering 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• I had a couple of opportunities to worship this weekend. I heard two good messages, from two different ministers, both were applicable and meaningful.
• This weekend we celebrated the birth of the church, almost 2,000 years ago, God established His church and through the church the world has and continues to benefit from His instrument of grace and truth. 
• One of the highlights of my role at the university is to see the variety of methods churches are using today.
• Remember church leaders, Jesus promised HE would build HIS church!
• From this week's small group lesson, If I have surrendered, if I have put God in control of my life, then I can release all outcomes. I do not have to carry the weight of the world any longer. I can be open to face each day with a sense of wonder, gratitude, freedom, relaxation and delight.
• My two-week staycation is over, to be honest, it was nice not setting the alarm clock the past two weeks. Dreading tomorrow morning at 6 a.m.
• The most exciting thing to happen on my staycation; a snake got into my house, yep that was a heart stopper!
• We are now less than 100 days from the "most wonderful time of the year."
• Something to Chew on; The work of the church is not survival, she exists to fulfill the Great Commission. ~ Brother Andrew

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at First Christian Church of Cocoa Beach this morning.
• Message from the life of Jonah. Truth be told, there is a little bit of Jonah in all of us!
• There is something comforting about singing old hymns.
• The drive over the causeway is so peaceful. I think my blood pressure dropped 10 points just being by the beach. 
• I also heard a wonderful message from the first chapter of Revelation today, the message was right in my wheelhouse as the message focused on a favorite topic of mine; history.
• Our small group is going through the book, When the Game is over, it all goes Back in the Box, by John Ortberg. this weeks lesson; "How do you keep score?" This is a very probing question.
• The first week of vacation is in the books, really has been a restful time.  
• Attended the Applause Awards Saturday evening. It is amazing the amount of Theater in the Arts talent in Central Florida.
• When you consider all the performances last night were by high school students it was even more amazing. 
• Did we skip June and July and go straight to August - wow, it is hot!
• A Simple Pleasure - Having access to a Swimming Pool! Yes!  
• Something to Chew On; The account of Jonah is not a story of a man refusing to do God's will, but the account of God who is willing pursue us so we may do His will. ~ From Today's Message

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Great day of worship this morning.
• Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom.
• So thankful for the men and women who chose to serve in the armed forces. 
• Heard a wonderful version of the Star Spangled Banner this morning. This version should be performed at every sporting event.
• While the world manufactures monuments of stone, God has set aside a greater memorial for the Christian; the Lord's Supper. So simple, but so profound.
• From this week's devotion; every man has two tasks when it comes to their heart;1. Guard your heart. 2. Give your heart! Which one is most difficult for you?
• It is official, I am an empty nester, my last child moved to the Florida gulf coast this past week.
• It is just me and the pup now.
• Not sure if you noticed, we are less than 100 days from the start of the college football season. 
• Have you hugged your A/C repairman? It looks like it is going to be a scorcher this Summer! 
• Speaking of Summer, teachers thank you for your work this past year, your job is tougher than most people realize!
• Something to Chew on; When you forgive, you in no way change the past - but you sure do change the future. ~ Bernard Meltzer

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• A wonderful day of worship this morning at Kissimmee Christian Church on the topic of our confidence in Christ Jesus!
• The second message of the morning focused on the power of prayer in the life of believers. So wonderful to see people put a message into practice. More churches need to do the same.
• Why is prayer so important? Because prayer works!
• Read the following on a church banner this week; A disciple knows and follows Jesus. A disciple is becoming more like Jesus. A disciple leads the lost and the saved closer to Jesus. Pretty much sums it up.
• Dance recitals can be so long!
• When does lovebug season end? Not soon enough.
• I have had the opportunity to hear some great success stories over the last few days. Scripture is right, we need to rejoice with those who rejoice! 
• Watching old western movies reminds me of my dad, he loved the old cowboy movies.
• To all my teacher friends; hang in there, the end is near!
• Something to Chew on; Prayer is a natural expression of faith as breathing is to life. ~ Jonathan Edwards  

Sunday Night Refections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at First Christian Church of Orange Park this morning with mom.
• She won a prize for having a child attend with her from the greatest distance away from Orange Park! 
• Yep, I am a good son! LOL
• So good to spend time with my two brothers this weekend as well - there is nothing like family! So blessed we all live in FLA!
• While mother's day is a wonderful day for many, we must remember there are many who face this day having experienced the loss of their mom. There is a missing piece in their life today. Also, there are women who long to be mothers who have not experienced the joy of motherhood. For them, the day was tough as well. 
• Let us celebrate the joy of motherhood and remember to lift up the hurting.  
• Spent the first part of the week in Tennessee at a Retreat for my department at Johnson University. 
• All we have to do now is turn our plans into realities.
• So good to catch up with several friends from Johnson University Tennessee this past week.
• BTW the weather in Tennessee in May is WONDERFUL!
• Just once I would like to drive from Jax to Kissimmee and see no one texting while driving. Why don't people realize it is DANGEROUS!
• Speaking of driving, I think the summer traffic season has begun. 
• Something to Chew on; A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life...her children arise and call her blessed, her husband also and he praises her... Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. ~ A portion of Proverbs 31 (and if you know such a woman, thank God she is in your life.)

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Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Wonderful message about our confidence IN Christ this morning.
• Key thought from the message, our purpose in life is to give God glory.
• The question to keep in from of me; Do my thoughts and actions always glorify God?
• The 40th commencement is now in the books, really going to miss this group of students. 
• I can't believe I graduated from then CFBC 38 years ago, what a journey it has been!
• A box of Thin Mints found their way to my home yesterday, what a wonderful surprise. Thank you, Suzy!
• Attending a planning retreat this week. It is always good to reflect and develop plans for the coming year.
• Something to Chew on; God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied with Him. ~ John Piper

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at First Christian Church Orange Park this morning.
• Jim and his team are doing a wonderful job reaching out to the people in the Orange Park community.
• Sermon topic; An Uncommon Place - what makes JUFL an uncommon university?
• Sharing uncommon facts about the university was a great reminder God was and is in the success of the college.
• What really makes JUFL is not the facts, but the graduates who have left our institution and are making a difference in this world!
• Ask me anytime, and I will share story after story of alumni who are making a difference today! 
• I heard one of the most moving communion meditations today; We at times forget at communion we are reminded there is hope when all seem hopeless.
• Quote from a message I heard yesterday; Certainty is the mark of the commonsense life: gracious uncertainty is the mark of the spiritual life. ~ Oswald Chambers 
• We all want certainty in this life, but truth be told, it is the uncertainty of life where one discovers the need for God.
• From this week's devotional; Faith is not threatened by funerals.
• Thursday is the National Day of Prayer, 2 Chronicles 7:14 is a constant reminder of our need as a nation to pray and the result we will experience when we humble ourselves and pray. 
• This Friday afternoon, JUFL will celebrate our 40th commencement, here comes another group of Kingdom builders.
•  Hey class of '80, does it seem like 40 years?
• Something to Chew on; The greatest use of a life is to spend it for something that will outlast it. ~ William James

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thought from an Amazing Day...

• Great day of worship this morning. The music and the message were truly inspiring.
• Seven of the powerful words ever spoken; He is not here, He has risen! 
• Why can't every Sunday be celebrated like Easter Sunday?
• Last night I was able to hear one of my favorite Christian artist; good music and a great message. Thank you, Mr. Chapman! 
• The somberness of Good Friday always gives way to the celebration of Easter Sunday! 
• Only one week of class time left for JUFL, how can a school year go by so fast?
• Something to Chew on; The greatest gift of Easter is hope - Christian hope which makes us have that confidence in God, in His ultimate triumph, and in His goodness and love, which nothing can shake. ~ Basil Hume.

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worship at Kissimmee Christian this morning, message focused on what does the cross mean to you?
• Just in case you are wondering, the cross means EVERYTHING!
• Special treat this weekend, attended the Better Man Event with my 2 sons. Many good takeaways from the event. 
• #1 takeaway, we may all have regrets about our past, however, we can not change our past, but if we are committed to being a Better Man, we can change the future - for an entire generation.
• Hearing 7,500 men get excited about Jesus really stirs the soul!
•  # 2 takeaway for me was to hear how many men are impacting our culture through a variety of means; athletics, business, education, and entertainment just to name a few, truly inspiring.
• April 15th, Yikes!
• Are you sure my chihuahua is not a dependent? 
• Hearing good things about the Gators' Orange and Blue game yesterday. 
• Next Sunday is Resurrection Sunday, big day for the church!
• From this week's devotional here is a truth that needs to be shared; When I am tempted, may I see the cross, remember Your cost and let love bind my wandering heart to You. 
• Only 3 weeks until JUFL graduation, how can this be the 40th commencement? it seems like the 2nd commencement (mine) was just yesterday.
• This is my 450th Sunday Night Reflection, just sayin'
• Something to Chew on; Because of the empty tomb, we have peace. Because of His resurrection, we can have peace during even the most troubling of times because we know He is in control of all that happens in the world. ~ Paul Chappell

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Preached at the Christian Church of DeLeon Springs this morning on the topic  People of the Second Chance from Luke 15.
• What would you like a second chance to do in this life?
• Wonderful church family at DeLeon Springs, I may have met a distant cousin this morning. Time to check out Ancestry.com
• Tomorrow night someone will have their one shining moment!
• After tomorrow evening, we can begin focusing on college football again - can I get an Amen.
• Experienced our first Winter Park River Cruise this weekend, we had a wonderful time.
• If you live in Central Florida and have never been on the cruise, you gotta go.
• Graduation is 26 days away! Can't wait to hear how this group of seniors will impact God's kingdom.
• Taking my two sons to next Saturday's "Better Man Event".  Looking forward to this growth opportunity!
• Something to Chew on; Success is not measured by money or power or social rank. Success is measured by your discipline and inner peace. ~ Mike Ditka 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Three-peat weekend of worship; worshiped at First Baptist Orlando Saturday evening, Kissimmee Christian Sunday morning and represented the university at Christ's Church of Marion County Sunday evening. 
• Baptismal waters stirred in two of the services as we watch six people enter the watery grave and come up brand new! This never gets old!
• Each baptism was different, but the results were the same; Celebrations in the church and in Heaven!
• After coming home tonight on I-75, I wonder if anyone lives up north any longer Traffic, Traffic, Traffic!
• No surprise here, I have a broken Bracket!
• Like my friend Suzy said, "I have no more ponies in the race!"
• JUFL Commencement is just around the corner!
• How can a year go by so fast?
• Find a cure for migraine headaches and you will be a millionaire!
• Something to Chew on; Joy is the serious business of Heaven. ~ C.S. Lewis 

Sunday Night Reflections

A Few Thoughts from an Amazing Day...

• Worshiped at Canoe Creek Christian Church this morning. Fantastic message on the subject of Unity in Christ. 
• This message should be preached in the pulpits across America.
• Unity is not just a suggestion for the church, it is the prayer of Christ that His church should be united! 
• There is too much at stake for the church to be divided.
• Great hearing about several victories this week, ordinations, baptisms, and anniversaries, it has been a good week!
• Tennessee/Iowa, UCF/Duke, there is a reason they call it Madness!
• Celebrated my son's birthday tonight, it is ALWAYS good when the family gets together!
• Family reunion this past Saturday in Jacksonville. I always love to hear old, old stories of generations past!
• Two questions I was asked at my reunion, why is your hair so gray? When are you going to retire? Do I really look that old!
• Why do cell phones only last 3 years?
• This past week I celebrated 8 years at JUFL, I must admit it has and continues to be an incredible journey. Thankful to Bill, who gave me the opportunity to work at JUFL.
• The favorite catchphrase I am hearing lately; "Stay in your lane, bro", spoken by an average tattoo artist.
• Something to Chew on; People lose their way when they lose theirs why. ~ Michael Hyatt