This week, I had my pre-op appointments for what I hope will be my final surgery on December 26. My surgeon has been described as a “rockstar” in his field—and I’m deeply grateful for the skill and excellence God has placed in my medical team. During one of the consultations, the doctor told me he had read…Read more Ready for the Next Surgery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery
Tears of Joy and Grief
The joyful pictures of the last twenty Israeli hostages reunited with their families bring tears to my eyes. Imagine being violently kidnapped during a barbaric killing spree that targeted women and children. For more than two years, you live in darkness—unsure if you will ever see the light of day again, wondering if you will…Read more Tears of Joy and Grief
Our Vision Sustains Us: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery
Hi Family, My recovery from cancer surgery is moving along slowly but steadily. At times I want to press ahead more quickly, but my doctors, nurses, and therapists remind me that healing takes patience. What keeps me anchored in this season is a vision God gave Becky and me many years ago. I remember it…Read more Our Vision Sustains Us: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery
A Setback and Remarkable Recovery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer
After four days in the hospital with dangerously low sodium, I’m grateful to be home and recovering well. Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and love—please continue to pray as I heal and prepare for more tests in October. God is faithful!
Walking Through Recovery One Step at a Time: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Cabin fever has definitely set in. Recovery can be a slow, unpredictable process — and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t eager to get through this phase quickly. There’s so much I want to do. My mind races ahead, but my body is still catching up. So I pray for a speedy recovery…Read more Walking Through Recovery One Step at a Time: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Home, Thankful, and Cancer Free: Week Six, A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Hi Family, Tonight’s post will be brief, but I trust it will be a blessing to you. I find myself very emotional this evening. When I think of all the prayers, scriptures, songs, humorous stories, and videos that have been shared with me during this time, I’m overcome with a deep and teary gratitude. Sometimes…Read more Home, Thankful, and Cancer Free: Week Six, A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
God Is Good! All the time God is Good! Week 5 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the prayers, cards, phone calls, and visits this week. Each and every one has meant so much to me. I’ve felt so supported, encouraged, and loved—and I don’t take it for granted. This past week, I was able to enjoy a full schedule of ministry, even as…Read more God Is Good! All the time God is Good! Week 5 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Turning 70, Trusting God, and Treasuring the Journey: Week 4 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
My 70th birthday was filled with family, joy, and the deep presence of God. But in the quiet moments before and after the celebration, I wrestled honestly with fear, faith, and the road ahead. One week before surgery, I want to share what’s in my heart—and the peace I’ve found in God's presence. This past…Read more Turning 70, Trusting God, and Treasuring the Journey: Week 4 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Faith, Pre-Op, and a Brisket Sandwich: Week 3 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
“Will you have the surgery since you are asking God for a miracle?” Some of my friends who don’t attend Woodland Church have asked me that question. Thankfully, not one person from our congregation has asked it, which makes me feel I have been a good pastor and preacher. Still, I understand why people wonder.…Read more Faith, Pre-Op, and a Brisket Sandwich: Week 3 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Week 2 The Faith of a Community: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and prayerful support in response to my post last week about my cancer diagnosis. Thank you for the scriptures, songs, prayers, and humor you have shared. I am reading and saving each one in a special file for this journey. It took some time to reply…Read more Week 2 The Faith of a Community: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Overcoming Challenges: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Last Sunday morning after the message, Becky and I shared with our Woodland Church Family, that I have been diagnosed with colon cancer. Fortunately, my doctor caught it early. This week, I met with the surgeons at University of Michigan Hospital. The scans of my abdomen and lungs do not show any signs of the…Read more Overcoming Challenges: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Monday Meditations 2025-06-23
“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever!” (Psalm 111:10, NLT) Wisdom has been a goal for me anchored in the Biblical truth that wisdom's foundation is the fear of the Lord. Wisdom is looking ahead, the long game not the short game.…Read more Monday Meditations 2025-06-23
Monday Meditation 2026-06-16
"I have never met anyone anywhere like Francis Schaeffer, who took God so passionately seriously, people so passionately seriously, and truth so passionately seriously." Os Guiness That quote has touched me so deeply. It resonates within me like a the sounding of a bell. I so want that to be true of my life and…Read more Monday Meditation 2026-06-16
Monday Memories
My grandmother Mary Clanton was an amazing woman. She came to mind a few minutes ago and I was helping diaper our newest grandson, Asher. I remembered her by the well on her knees in the South Georgia sun, washing clothes with a scrub board. She would have had to drawn enough water from the…Read more Monday Memories
The Moments I Remember
Last week, these words flowed unplanned but sincerely out of my heart. "My time is more precious to me than money." However, the best times in life are those moments that haven't been planned in detail or called for a purpose. Those are happy moments that I reflect on often. Praying together with a friend…Read more The Moments I Remember
Finished Well!
The picture above is of one my good friends, Randy Stokes, and the best networker I have known. Wednesday evening, before our midweek service at Woodland Church, I called Randy. We talked about his sister's upcoming funeral on Friday of this week, his health, his family, his job, and future. Before we finished our call,…Read more Finished Well!
FOLLOWING JESUS INTO A STORM
Following Jesus sometimes means sailing right into the middle of a fierce storm. Fierce storms come in our lives. Jonah ran from God and was caught in a fierce storm. The disciples follow Christ and they too are caught in the middle of a fierce storm. Don't be surprised by the storms but be sure…Read more FOLLOWING JESUS INTO A STORM
Reading the Bible this Year
The rewards of reading the Bible in community is growing in our knowledge of God together. Throughout the year, we will discover promises, prophecies, peace, and direction together. Individually we will grow, but we will also grow as brothers, sisters, and friends. Remember that God calls us together into a kingdom. Let me invite you…Read more Reading the Bible this Year
The Wonder of Surrender
“One does not surrender a life in an instant. That which is lifelong can only be surrendered in a lifetime.” Jim Elliot, https://elisabethelliot.org/tribute-to-elisabeth/ Each time I preach, I offer to pray with people who want to surrender their lives to Christ. A part of my prayer always includes, “as much as I know how, I…Read more The Wonder of Surrender
Celebrating Faith: Baptism and Holiday Cheer
Christianity is a joyful faith! Jesus speaks of the gift of fullness of joy! This Sunday was an especially joyful day of celebrating God's love through music, worship, prayer, generosity, Communion, the sermon on joy, and the baptism of eight people. Our church family was blessed as each of those baptized briefly shared a bit…Read more Celebrating Faith: Baptism and Holiday Cheer
Happy Thanksgiving!
To think is to thank. My thoughts have caused my soul to rejoice spontaneously in all the goodness of God! I am overflowing with thankfulness arising from a heart of joy and memories throughout this past year. I am so thankful that we can know and rejoice in the Lord our God! At the end…Read more Happy Thanksgiving!
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 16
“Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the privilege of exercising the right to vote freely and conscientiously. Strengthen our resolve to inform ourselves on the issues, to be responsible with our choices, and to be salt and light. Amen.” “Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.”…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 16
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 15
“Heavenly Father, thank you that the Bible gives us foundational truth and guidance for thinking about political issues like our values, poverty, wealth, immigration, and the health of a nation. Help us as we look to your word to cast our votes with confidence and what you have taught us and Holy Scripture. In Christ…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 15
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 13
Heavenly Father, forgive us for any worry and anxiety about who will occupy the White House. We remind ourselves that You are sovereign over the people and the affairs of this world. Help us keep our house in order and at peace. In the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus we pray. Amen. “Moderation…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 13
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 12
Heavenly Father, thank you for the peace you give us as opposed to the panic and paranoia the politicians’ ads offer. We ask you to make us productive citizens of both Heaven and earth. We receive your promised provision for the future as we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.” “Our God, your name…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 12
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 11
Heavenly Father, give us courage and confidence to look and listen to those around us with discernment and not disdain. Move in our hearts to live as passionate followers of Christ. Amen. “This is the secret: Christ lives in you.” Colossians 1:27. Peace!
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 9
Good Morning! The early Christians never thought about voting for a political leader. They were however, well acquainted with turbulent times, trials, and political unrest. They sought the Lord for divine wisdom for making choices. Let’s ask the Lord for his help in our choices and decisions. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 9
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 6
Heavenly Father, we pray for wisdom, energy, and urgency to work for peace and prosperity for our beloved nation. We pray that we will vote conscientiously, in this year’s election.In the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. “Work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile.…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 6
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 5
Good Morning! “Help us to listen carefully and with discernment. Just as Jesus, listened to people with conflicting opinions. Help us to speak with love and persuasion without being defensive. In His name, Amen.” “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 5
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 4
“Father, lead us in the way of Jesus, holding fast to your Word while loving and treating with kindness and respect those we disagree with. Give us wisdom and the ability to communicate the majesty of the Gospel with the perseverance of Jesus. Amen” “May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election: Day 4
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election Day 3
Good Morning! “Lord, thank you for your faithful love for us. During this divisive political campaign, help us to encourage and serve one another with the love of Christ.” “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 Please reply if you are agreeing in prayer with me.…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election Day 3
21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election
Good Morning! “Heavenly Father, help us to prepare our hearts to vote in this year’s election. In Your providential care we are entrusted with the opportunity to vote. Give us wisdom and discernment to vote in the ways Jesus taught us to live. We remind ourselves that you are our Lord and Savior. Our ultimate…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for the 2024 Election
Mistakes, I have made more than a few!
When Jesus taught us to pray by addressing God as Father, he revealed to us what God is really like. Reading the Bible, there is a clear message that God is our Father. “The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. For he knows how weak we are;…Read more Mistakes, I have made more than a few!
Future World
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1, NKJV) Psalm 23 was the second passage of Scripture that I memorized as a child of six. The first was Psalm 100. Memorizing those two passages early in life shaped my life. I've never doubted that God was my shepherd. I have always enjoyed thinking and…Read more Future World
A Call to 40 Days of Fasting and Prayer
Each year, I look forward to our annual 40 Days of Fasting and Prayer. For 25 years I have called our church family to a season of fasting and prayer. For some of us this may be something very new. To give up food for a meal, or for 24 hours, once a week. Why?…Read more A Call to 40 Days of Fasting and Prayer
Happy Sabbath #2
It is a pleasant surprise for a pastor when a Sunday morning message strikes a chord with so many. The message Sunday about Sabbath Rest has sparked conversations every day this week. A common summary of the comments reveals that most of us have not seen Sabbath as the grace gift that it is. There…Read more Happy Sabbath #2
Happy Sabbath!
When the Hebrews were delivered from slavery in Egypt, God gave these former slaves a gift that their taskmasters would have never thought of. The gift of one day of rest for worship, family, and re-creation. From the beginning of creation God gave us a unique gift of a week with one day specifically designed…Read more Happy Sabbath!
Christmas is for Everyone!
On this fourth day of the Christmas Season, my heart is full of joy! This year's Advent theme was at Woodland was a "A Few of My Favorite Things." The people, the decorations, the lights, and the gifts of Christmas brought us to the scriptural conclusion, "Christmas is for Everyone!" Every year the world is…Read more Christmas is for Everyone!
Christmas Eve at Woodland
A Few of My Favorite Things!
Christmas Lights
Christmas Lights Christmas Lights!
How Can We Help? Shout It Out Loud!
Last week I listened to four family members of the captives held in the tunnels of Gaza by Hamas. Their humanity, love, and courage touched me deeply within. I listened to their awful story of Hamas' attack, brutal slaughter of men, women, children and babies, kidnapping their parents, and the dystopian scenes of body parts…Read more How Can We Help? Shout It Out Loud!
Thanksgiving Memories
We have been enjoying the Season of Thanksgiving at our home. We have enjoyed Thanksgiving service at Woodland Church, hosting our family this week, sharing meals from different cultures, making new memories and remembering past memories filled with thanksgiving as we have shared picture. There has been a lot of laughter and stories shared. When…Read more Thanksgiving Memories
Pray Earnestly!
A few years ago a new friend committed himself to Christ while we prayed together. What an incredible moment. Those are moments that I think about often. Although, we prayed together, he often tells me how his parents prayed daily for him to commit his life to Christ. Their fervent prayers were heard and what…Read more Pray Earnestly!
Pray for Israel
The world suddenly changed as Hamas funded and directed by the government of Iran savagely attacked Israeli children, women, and men. The last account was over 800 civilians were murdered and women and children taken hostage to protect the cowards of Hamas from Israel's response. How do we respond as Christians? We pray, advocate, remember,…Read more Pray for Israel
The Gospel’s Success
"The gospel cannot live, fight, conquer without prayer — prayer unceasing, instant, and ardent." E. M. Bounds. As you are praying for your friends today, think about this. The problems and challenges facing them, God is working through those issues to bring His peace to them. The peace that passes all understanding. The peace of…Read more The Gospel’s Success
21 Days of Prayer for Our Friends
A few minutes ago, I prayed with a friend who is a godly pastor. When he asked me to pray for him, immediately what Jesus said in John 14:23, came to mind. “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with…Read more 21 Days of Prayer for Our Friends
It’s Quiet Tonight
For the last three weeks we have enjoyed two of our sons and their families visiting with us. We have had several picnics, two parties, visited museums, parks, carousels, swam, and enjoyed so much good ice cream. I have laughed, wrestled, played games, watched movies, read stories, and told stories. It’s very quiet tonight. However,…Read more It’s Quiet Tonight
Mentally Healthy
"My son needs help but he is afraid of being stigmatized. His career is taking off and he is being promoted. He is not enjoying his success. He is afraid of being thought of as weak and losing momentum for his career," the distraught parent said to me recently. Today I have had two conversations…Read more Mentally Healthy
A Spiritual Health Checkup
It is essential that we have a spiritual health checkup at least annually. When we are spiritually healthy, we thrive in all the facets of our life. You know that glow that you have after a workout or a vacation, there is a glow spiritually as well. “A glad heart makes a happy face; a…Read more A Spiritual Health Checkup
Coram Deo 