On Living and Dying

I know the title is a bit somber for some. Let’s face it though we are about living. God the Creator, our Creator has given us life, and due to the sin of Adam we are all going to die too.

There is not one person who is exempt from death. None of us guaranteed tomorrow, not even to mention “Next year”, “Next Thanksgiving”, or “Next Christmas”. We don’t even know what the next five minutes will bring our way.

Now do not get me wrong, I am not avowing the thought, “Let us eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die”, but what I am saying is let’s be responsible in living, taking time with family, even the elderly ones, and not fear what this virus might do to us.

I am not just saying this. I do my best to practice this by faith in the One who made me, saved me, and gives me life. My family and I have decided to continue living without the fear which has been promoted and false accusations of someone not loving others because we choose to meet together and do not wear mask, is plumb unloving in itself.

I have also determined not to be swayed by the supposed guilt others would lay on me. I have enough guilt of my own to deal with.

Anyway, let’s get on with life; and I am speaking more to Bible believing Christians here. Death is not a friend, but our last enemy that shall be destroyed, so we are not to fear it for ourselves or our loved ones.

Here is what I practice through this ordeal: I keep my distance from others in public places; when I cough or sneeze I do it into my shoulder or elbow or cover my face with my hand; I frequently wash my hands as well with soap and water. By the way, I have no intention of getting vaccinated either; I have also never taken a flu shot. I don’t plan on getting one.

The reason I have not gotten the flu is because of the good Lord, His hand of protection, and if I do get sick He heals me because He is the Great Physician.

I grieve with those who have lost loved ones due to the virus, and thankful for all of those who have recovered and are currently recovering. Have you noticed what the recovery rate is? Just a thought.

Let us rejoice in the Lord always and always be thankful for our health, the things and the wealth He has blessed us with. By the way I did not use the word “Wealthy” there; we all have wealth if we stop and look and think about it.

Do not be so afraid to die, that you’re afraid to live for His glory.

That is my thoughts from the banks of Flat Creek,

~tim

That Party plus Another

The birthday party scheduled for August the 8th was a  huge success. It went ahead as scheduled; and I believe Addyson was pleased as well as her friends and guest. The traveled, by walking and wading in the creek, and even got out of sight far from  the rest of us. These were city girls.

The “Plus” in the title is that just this past Saturday we had another Birthday Party down at the swimming hole. Our granddaughter Caitlyn turned 17 and had several of her friends from church celebrate with her. These were older and more aggressive youth, and they had much fun too.

No! I did not get in the creek either time, though due to the heat along with the humidity it might have seemed like a good idea.

It is always good to get together with family and friends.

And that is the way it is on the banks of Flat Creek.

~tim

Mowing in the rain

Today is a special Birthday party for a special granddaughter. She is planning on having it down at our family swimming hole; the Whirl Hole. That could be a little in doubt now though, due to some rain.

I went down to mow, because it has been over a month since it was mowed.  When I got started mowing it started sprinkling and as I mowed it came down progressively harder. I was soaked when I got to the house.

I kept mowing until I got a fairly large enough space for a party, and access to the Creek for swimming.

We have not heard for our daughter Monica; if it is still a go. Addyson will surely be disappointed if it is rained out for the Creek.

Even if it is raining I am sure she will enjoy the meal at Flat Creek in Republic.

Happy Birthday to Addyson Worley  14 years old.

It Has Been Awhile

Last November 16 was when I shared my last thoughts on this site. I shared one someone else had posted on April 7th, 2020, but nothing of my own.

Since about March 16 of this year things have really gone crazy, we have had quite the adventure; unlike anything I have ever seen. I have not heard of this nation being shut down due to anything. I know about the “Great Depression”, but things were shut down because of other things, and people could still get out and work.

There have been worse sicknesses, and viruses that have hit our Country, and the nation has closed up everything except the government bureaucracies and needed hospitals.

I know, I am like most of you. I am tired of hearing about this stuff.  I prefer to trust my government, but when things like this happens it causes me to ask questions and doubt their intent.

I have no intent of attacking anyone, or trying to get anyone in particular to agree with me.  When government agencies are allowed to continue working; why is it the populace cannot? It seems to me to be more of a power grab, than protecting the people.

How many millions have lost their jobs. Families are hurting, and it  is not the govs responsibility to bail us all out – personally, or business, or State wise.

I pray for all those who have gotten ill from COVID-19 to get well and for full recovery. For family who has lost love ones to this enemy, my prayers to Almighty God goes up for you, your comfort, and encouragement.

My last thought is to pastors and churches it seems we have given cause for those who are out for a power grab, to make a precedent for this time, and who knows what it will be next. God our Creator has it in His hands.

O, by the way. The Church of which I am pastor has not closed its doors.  We have been meeting every Sunday regular services; except one Sunday night that was scheduled anyway. God has blessed. It was because I had no clear direction otherwise.

From the banks of Flat Creek,

~tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – Sixteenth

Today I am thankful for our fifth born child, third born son James. James was born in November of 1982 in Aurora, MO.

James is married to the lovely Amber. They live in Mount Vernon, MO. and they are happy pet owners to a couple of big dogs.

James and Amber for for a business in Aurora taking care of other people, and their needs. James is a loving, kind, tender, and caring man; as is Amber.

James knows the Lord as does Amber.  I thank the Lord for James everyday; and I am very thankful that the good Lord gave him to us.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – Fifteenth

On this the fifteenth day of November  2019 I am thankful for our fourth born child, our second son Philip.

Philip was born in  Springfield as was the first and the third child.  He is married to  lovely young woman name of Sarah Joyce; and they have three beautiful daughters. They live in the State of Arkansas, the town of Booneville.

He is the pastor of at least one church, and has his own business as a financial adviser. He loves God in His Son Jesus Christ, His wife, and their three daughters.

So Lord, I do thank You for giving him to Madge and I, and thank You for the great things he has brought into our lives.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – Fourteenth

I am thankful today for my third born child, who is our firstborn son.

Timothy named after me for his first name, and my Dad Mike for his middle name. He was born in Springfield, MO in 1979.  It was such a joy for Madge and I to be blessed with a son.

Timothy has a wonderful wife Sarah, and they have four wonderful children; Naomi, Josiah, Eli, and Lydia. Timothy is the pastor of the Baptist Church in Stott’s City, MO, and is employed by Baptist Hill Campgrounds near Mount Vernon.

Timothy, Sarah, and our grandkids are truly a blessing from the Lord and we are thankful for them, their love for each other and their children; and also the love and respect they give Madge and me.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 13

Today I will be thankful for our second born child and daughter, Monica.  Monica was born in the cold and icy month of January 1977 at the Baptist Hospital in Louisville, KY. She was born while I was a student at Boyce Bible School, part of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Monica is a great daughter, mild mannered, loving, and kind.  She is married to a fine man by the name of Sam. Monica and Sam are hard working, and devoted to one another and the care of their two children Addyson and AlexZander. They also have a great love and respect for Madge and I; and Sam’s mother Kathy too.

I am thankful to the Lord that I was and I still am blessed to have such a daughter, and her fine family.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 12

I am thankful for each of Madge’s and my children who have grown into fine, strong, respectable adults. Today I will begin with our first born.

We named her Charity when she was born, because the name means “love” especially godly love.  That name is fit for her still.

I am thankful for her because she is my daughter, because of her faith in God, through His Son Jesus Christ, and she also loves her family, and has been strong, faithful, and loving in being a wife to her husband Paul; and a strong and loving mother to her three children – our grandchildren; Rachelle, Jonathan, and Caitlyn.

I am thankful for the Lord’s goodness in watching over her through the years; and especially these last two years.

Thank You Lord for Charity and her family.

The Month of Thanksgiving – 11

On this 11th day of the month of Thanksgiving I am thankful for my wife Madge.  She has loved me, stood by me through thick and thin, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health as she is an encouragement to me.

For over forty six years she has tolerated me when I was very unloving, or unkind to her. I love her more than my own life, and I thank our Creator for her every day.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 8, 9, & 10

I am thankful that I remembered today. For some reason I neglected to give a thanks for the 8th and the 9th; so I will include them today.

For Friday November the 8th I am thankful for the sunshine, and its warmth for the day, for our well, and that I was able to tend its need, which I had overlooked for some time.

For Saturday November the 9th I am thankful for the day Madge and I spent together going to the Queen City of the Ozarks, seeing both daughters, getting a couple of beds for our bedrooms, the visit with Larry and Margaret; and the beautiful drive home through Ozark, Highlandville, Abesville, Galena, and through Wheelerville, and on home. It is a wonderful drive through God’s country and country side.

Today, Sunday November 10, It is Veteran’s Day for remembering all who have signed that blank check even to the giving of their lives if necessary; thankful for all the sacrifices they have made for our Nation.

Thankful for the Lord’s work in my life and for His work in all our lives.  God is good, great, awesome, and glorious. He is worthy of all praise and thanksgiving.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 7

It is so easy to complain; but when you are given a grateful heart from the Lord you will be a grateful and thankful person.

The reason for the above statement is that there are times I can so easily find something to complain about; and complaining is the opposite of thankfulness.

I am thankful for the things God has given me in which I can be thankful. Thankfulness even in a time of great pain, sorrow, grief, or fear is only a gift from God.

So I am thankful for thankfulness.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 6

Today I am thankful for the Creator’s provision.  Without getting into the details of it I just thank Him for providing a need for today though His gracious hand.

I am also thankful for the rain He provides for our farmers, and everyone, and everything that needs water.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 5

Today I want to express my thanks to the Creator who brought my wife Madge into my life. We have been blessed with 5 great children, and their spouses; Charity and her husband Paul; Monica and her husband Samson; Timothy and his wife Sarah L.; Philip and his wife Sarah J.; James and his wife Amber.

We have been blessed as well with twelve [12] grandchildren; four boys, and eight girls.

I am thankful that Madge and I have been together for forty six years plus some, and every day of each year was a learning experience, and a blessing for which I must thank my God and Savior.  Thank You Lord Jesus.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 4

Hope you are having thankful day.

I am thankful for the sunshine today, and the warmth it provides for our planet. It has been said that if our distance from the sun was any greater we would all freeze to death; there would be no life here; and if it was any closer it would be far too hot.

So I am thankful to the Creator of all things for designing so intricate of details into the created order.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving – 2 & 3

Since I overlooked posting a Thankful comment yesterday November 02, 2019 I will share two thanks today.

Yesterday was Youth Deer season, and our next to youngest grandson, Eli, got his first deer, so for that I am thankful. Thankful for that big smile his mother caught on camera as he knelt beside his first at the age of 11.  Thankful that he is enjoying the blessings of God’s creation, and His blessings.

For today I am thankful for this everyday, and most every moment of the day; and that is for God’s grace and mercy by which all can be saved from sin and the wrath of sin through Jesus Christ. I am thankful for the Church where I preach; and that they all have come under that grace through faith in Him.

Thankful from the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

The Month of Thanksgiving

The day of Thanksgiving in the month of November, this year on the 28th day of the month is a National Holiday.  I am, however a man who enjoys being thankful everyday.

So for the month of November on this blog site I am planning on giving you at least one thing I am thankful for.  We need to ask the question; “To whom are we to be thankful?”

Yes we are to be thankful to family, wife for her husband, and the other way around. Thankful for the things others do for you. To whom are we to give thanks ultimately?

Our thanks, ultimately, should be to our Creator who is our Lord, our Savior, and God, and Sustainer.

Today, I am grateful and thankful for the ability to move my fingers, my hands, my toes and feet, to move my legs, and that I can walk, even run some; and I can thank no one else but my Lord and God. So here it is…

Thank You Father for all the above.

From the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

Rain and Driving

This may be considered a pet peave of mine, and I have shared comments about it before.

I made a trip to Cassville this morning in the rain; and I noticed many folks driving without their headlights on; not even park lights, or any kind of light.

Let me get this straight in my mind, and maybe in yours too.  I know you can see; after all it is daylight, the sun is up. I know you can see because you are smart enough to know not to drive if you cannot see.

I know you can see; but can you be seen? Headlights on enable the oncoming driver to see you.  Seeing you in the distance in case he/she might be following a slower drive he/she might need to get around.

Some of you use your automatic on, but do you know when the light is bright enough, as it is quite often when it is raining, they do not come on automatically.  You must switch the switch to the on position.

I am sharing this because it is a great safety issue in driving our cars and trucks on the roads and highways. Let me suggest one thing; use your headlight switch.  Not only is it a good idea to drive with headlights on in the rain, snow, sleet, fog, and the dark.  It is also the State law in the State of Missouri. If your windshield wipers are on you must have your headlights on.

The next time you get in your car or truck to drive, and it is raining, turn on your headlights. It could save someone’s life; even your own.

From the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

A Sunday Drive on Friday

When I was a boy I can remember a few times when my Mom and Dad would decide to go on a Sunday drive after worship at our Church. I remember going to Silver Dollar City in the early 1960’s and it was nothing like it is today.  At that time it seems like we just drove up and walked in. I do remember a few drives that was just driving around to see different places.

Well; anyway I woke up yesterday morning [Friday] trying to decide if I needed to go to the Church office for further study prep and prayer or if I would just stay at the house. I decided on staying, and I did do some review, and praying over the text, and studying.

Along about the time I was winding things down I decided I wanted to go to Aurora for a cheeseburger at Sonic; so I asked my wife (Madge) if she would like to go and eat lunch. I knew she would not turn down an opportunity to go out and eat.  She said “Sure”.

The lunch date quickly turned into a drive.  While we were eating I asked Madge, maybe I stated to her, “Let’s go on to Timothy and Sarah’s, and see how the work on their house is going”. She was all for that.  They live in Stott’s City, west of Mount Vernon a few miles.  On the way I told her “We are taking a Sunday drive on Friday”.

As some of you know I retired from School Bus driving at the end of the 2018 – 2019 School year; from the Cassville R-IV School District. From September 2003 through May 17, 2019 I drove a bus to supplement our income.  I also enjoyed it until around the 2016 – 2017  School year.  I am now retired.

Several have asked me, “Do you miss driving the bus?” My answer to that is “NO!” I do miss the friends I have made among the other bus drivers, and some of our talks around the tables in the garage.

If it were not for retiring from the School, I would not have been able to take a Sunday drive on Friday.

I am still thankful to the Lord Jesus everyday for the strength, and life He gives, for the family and friends He has blessed me with.  I have plenty to do; and too much have left undone that I need to get done, so I know nothing of boredom.

I look forward to taking more Sunday drives on Friday.

From the banks of Flat Creek,

`tim

Accredited to Benjamin Franklin

“They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Franklin