Old people like to reminisce. So, forgive me because I am in that category. This past week has highlighted special memories. August 7, 1976 was Homecoming Sunday at my home church, Oakley Baptist. For a period of time, I had been wrestling with God’s call to preach. My wife and I had recently promised, “Lord Jesus, anything, anytime, anywhere, I am ready.” Now, convinced that meant surrender to ministry, I walked down the aisle during the invitation and announced to the church that decision....

It is that wonderful time of year that moms look forward to and children dread—the time the kids depart their house and head to the schoolhouse. Summer is shorter and vacations have vacated. The stores advertise, “Back to School Sales”! Now, you have to watch for the stopped school buses—don’t you dare pass! This is also a wonderful time to plan for “Back to Sunday School”! Whether you call it by that traditional name, or identify it as Bible Study, Life Groups, whatever; whether you meet...

Do you know what the term bi-vocational pastor means? It means the pastor basically has two full-time jobs! He works for the Lord at the church and then at his secular employment to take care of the family. It is not easy. It is so demanding! They deserve our prayers, encouragement, and cooperation. I know what it’s like to run a fifty pound jackhammer all night and then get up with little sleep and do church work. I have driven a three hour roundtrip to work at a sales counter five days a...