May 2010 Edition

May is the month of recitals, graduations, and awards nights, where every child is special, as all you parents, and grandparents know. Peggy and I have attended two ballet recitals, two graduations, and at least one awards night this month. We are always happy to go because we are proud of our grandchildren and their accomplishments.

I have memories of graduating from kindergarten, high school, and college. The first two were routine. However, my college graduation was special to me. It was special because I managed to squeeze four years of college into seven years. The first two years were one long ‘Lost Weekend’ (for all you old movie buffs). As my parents said of that time, “Buck had a ‘two year paid vacation in Athens’ then he started college!” Thanks to my dear wife’s patience, I was able to work full-time and go to school part-time for the rest of my college career. (It is amazing how much better you do in school when you are paying the tuition and books!)

Another graduation will take place in all our lives…at the end of our lives. Where we matriculate next will depend on how we handle the entrance exam. For some, it is an easy exam. It is complicated for others. There is only one question. There is only one right answer, contrary to popular opinion.

Here is the question:

Why should I let you into my Heaven?

Here are some possible answers:

1. “I have lived a good life.”

2. “I am a good person.”

3. “I am religious. I go to church (or synagogue, or mosque).”

4. “I believe in God” [Good for you! So do the demons. (James 2:19)]

Sorry! These are good things and good answers, but you would not pass the entrance exam. These are wrong because of Ephesians 2:8, 9. It is not about what we do (our works) but in Whom we place our wholehearted trust.


Here is the correct answer:

“I am a sinner. Jesus died for my sins. He rose from the dead. I place my wholehearted trust in Him, Who made me, to guide my life. I acknowledge Him as my only Savior and Lord.” (Note: Not my opinion, but God’s as He stated it in his “Owners Manual”…The Bible “I am The Way (notice He didn’t say “A Way”, I Am The Truth (Again, not “A Truth”) and The Life (same exclusivity). No one comes to the Father but by Me.” Jesus said this in John 14:6.

Does it sound too easy, cliché, rural and trite? Let’s talk.




MINISTRY NEWS

The First Annual Net Work Ministries Golf and Tennis Tournament, known as “The Duck If It’s Buck, Plaid Pants Open” was a huge success! We had 43 golfers and 21 ladies playing in a round robin format. We had perfect weather. Many who attended said how much fun they had. We feel we were able to communicate the vision of Net Work Ministries to many new people and make many new friends while communicating the love of Christ through word and deed. Ed Brooks, Dr. Dan Norris, Marshall and Cindy Dye, Neal, Marie and Scott Sisson, Pat Head, Peggy Reese…. well done, my dear friends! You made it a success.

My work as the Hotline Responder for the Crime Victims Advocacy Council continues to challenge me. I have spoken to many people who have lost loved ones through violence and many others who are the victims themselves of domestic violence. We try to direct them to the proper resources available to their situation while striving to show Christ’s love and compassion. C.V.A.C. also provides weekly support groups for family of murder victims.

Our Friday Morning Group has departed from its normal schedule to hold lunch time meetings at the homes of two of our members who are now disabled and unable to go out. We are starting a new and challenging book entitled “Choices That Change Lives” by Hal Urban. I consider it a great privilege to facilitate such a great group of men as we have in the Friday Guys Group.

Opportunities abound for me to spend individual time with men over the breakfast or lunch table to walk alongside them in their journey. If you know of some male friend who could use a sympathetic ear and a caring heart, please contact me at 678-986-4814.