Mile Markers along the Way

Approaching the Throne!

2011-08-21T22:01:00.002-04:00

You know, when you think about it, travel has really changed in the last hundred years or so.

Back about a hundred years ago, the most used means of travel was by horse, or wagon. If you had to travel a long distance, then you either went by train or boat. International travel was almost unheard of, because it took a LONG time to cross the ocean and get to where you were going.

Today, we can move around in the USA via our Interstate highway system, and literally be across the country in 24 hours. We can travel from coast to coast in the time that just a hundred years ago, took us to travel across a few counties.

Today, we can travel by Plane literally around the world in a day. In fact, this week, I will fly from South America, to New York City, to Atlanta, and then to Fayetteville Arkansas in a little over 15 hours. . . total! That is AMAZING! Over 4,000 miles in one day’s time!

If people of a hundred years ago were here today, they would be amazed!

We travel by Bicycle, Motor Cycle, Segway, Car, Bus, Plane. . .and much more. And instead of using Boats now for travel, we use them for VACATION! And the ships have EVERYTHING! Driving ranges, Malls, Pools, Casino’s, Las Vegas Shows, Buffets, and everything else you can imagine.

But no doubt, the most amazing way to travel is what we are doing RIGHT NOW! The INTERNET!

I am typing this blog from my office / bedroom in Guyana. And seconds after I press the publish button, it can be read all over the world. In fact, I was looking at the “stats” page for the blog tonight, and saw that people from the following countries have visited this blog. . . .The USA, Canada, The United Kingdom, Guyana, Dominica, Barbados, Australia, India, Switzerland, Germany, Nigeria, and South Korea. I am TRULY amazed!

One of the real blessings of the Internet is you can literally travel the world over, right from your seat. In fact, while I have been in Guyana this trip, I have been able to email, and even call my family with Voice Over Internet Protocol and hear their voice. And so even though I am far away. . .I don’t feel so far away. All thanks to the Internet.

And as wonderful and amazing as all that is, the truth is, that we can even travel further than our own planet today. And no, I am not talking about space travel. . . I’m talking about talking to the one who created it all!

God gives us the incredible ability to enter His very throne room, and talk to Him about anything that is on our hearts. And we can enter His throne room without hesitation, or without being timid about our requests! And He listens!

Hebrews 4:16 says it best. . .”16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

While we are “on the road” we often find ourselves in need. The good news is. . .God is there to listen. And we can approach Him BOLDLY, and ask for His help! We don’t have to skulk in the corner and wait for Him to see us. We can approach His throne. . .as one of His Children, and ask for help. . .that we will receive in our time of need!

When you are out on the road, and things go wrong. . .remember that you can approach the very throne room of God. . .and find your help!. You can do this with confidence and boldness. . .and know that He listens, He cares, and He will see you through!

Give that a try in your travels. It will make the journey so much better!

See you on the road!

STEVE

Travel in the 21st Century. . .

2011-08-17T23:52:00.001-04:00

As many of you have noted. . .I travel a LOT! When I am in the states, it is not uncommon for me to be on the road between 800 and 1,500 miles a week. Much of that travel is via my car. This lifestyle started about 20 years ago, when I started working in Guyana too.

20 years ago, when I got back stateside, I would purchase a new Atlas from Wal Mart, load up my car with CD's and Cassettes, and hit the road. But today. . .things are different.

Today, when I get into my car, I plug in my XM Radio and listen to tons of music, news, and sports talk in CD quality no matter where I am. I also plug in my trusty GPS device.

Now these two devices have UTTERLY changed my life on the road. First off. . . I can listen to the same radio "station" all day. . . .even if I travel 500 miles in one day. Secondly, I can leave a location ANYWHERE, and punch in the address I am traveling to, and it will lead me right to the door. This is amazing! And I don't have to look at a map. I just follow the GPS attached to my windshield and get right where I am going.

Lots of times, when I am in a place I don't know so well. . .as soon as I get to my location (Church, Preacher's house, Hotel, etc.) I save the location so that I know I can always get back to that spot if needed.

One time, while Colleen and I were in Jacksonville years ago, we had gone to someone's house for the evening. On the way back to where we were staying, I was on a major highway, and before I knew it, I was in a lane that made me take a different road. As we were entering that road, I was complaining that I had made a wrong turn and now we were going to spend a while getting back on the road we needed to be. Colleen said, "Why don't you just listen to your GPS? It will get you back where you want to go."

She was right, and in just a matter of moments, we were back on track and on our way to our home for the evening.

There have been lot's of times that I have used that GPS to get me right where I wanted to go. In fact, I have talked to people in a town I've never been to, and just asked for their address. . .and driven right to their door. The GPS always guides me where I want to go.

You know. . . that is how God's word is too! It leads us, it guides us, and it gets us out of trouble. But only if we look at it. Just like that GPS, if I don't look at it. . . it can't help me.

The Psalmist said "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my pathway." (Psalms 119:105) And much like the GPS is a light to our pathway today. . . God's word is our CONSTANT GPS!

My GPS keeps me from getting lost, it helps me to find my way, and it tells me what the turns and road looks like ahead.

God's word works EXACTLY the same way! His word keeps us from getting lost, helps us to find our way, and tells us what the turns and road looks like ahead!

It occurs to me that if we would just follow God's word, many of the pitfalls, disasters, and wrong turns in life could be avoided. If we spent just as much time in God's word as we do on the internet, or watching the news, or reading the paper. . . we would find that the road in life would be a lot less bumpy, and we would easily find our way on our journey.

We are going to make wrong turns. . .both in our cars. . . and in our lives. When that happens, perhaps the best thing, if not the only thing we should do, is consult the guide. Be it the GPS in our Car. . . or God's word in our life.

Spend time every day in God's word. It will keep you from getting lost, and in fact, can keep you from making those wrong turns in the first place.

See you on the Road!

STEVE

Planes, Storms, and more. . .Part Two

2011-08-11T17:42:00.000-04:00

Well, a few days ago I posted a blog of my trip to St. Lucia. . . Boy, was it a trip I won’t soon forget!

Virtually the entire time I was there, I got to see what a Tropical Storm looks like, up close and personal. It was really an interesting experience. And on the island of St. Lucia, there was flooding and even mud slides. It was a real mess.

As a result, there were lots of Hotel employee’s at the hotel that could not make it to work. Restaurants were closed, and the shuttle service through the hillside resort was greatly curtailed. At times, the rain was coming down so hard, that you could barely see anything over 30 feet away.

On Wednesday August 3rd, I started the journey back to Guyana, and it was not quite as eventful as the trip over. However, Liat. . .the airline (?) that I flew with did NOT disappoint. They were operating as normal. Which meant of course that they were late. . . late. . . late.

I started by being about 30 minutes late leaving the island of St. Lucia. When I arrived in Barbados, of course the flight was set to take off in about 30 minutes. I of course knew it was not going to work quite that way. Now we were supposed to take off at 8pm, so at about 7:55pm, they came on the intercom and said that we were of course delayed and that they would tell us more at 9:15pm. Sure enough, at about 9:25pm, they came on and said it would be about an hour and we would take off. (Of course the aircraft hadn’t even landed yet.)

At 10:45pm, they came on and said we would board sometime soon. . . and sure enough, about 11pm, we did start the boarding process. Most of the people going to Guyana were in fact Guyanese. . . so once they announced the boarding would start. . .there was a mad rush to the door, and everything bottle necked.

Then, when they finally told us we could board, it was really funny to watch as all the Guyanese raced across the runway, and then pushed and shoved, and bottlenecked again at the stairway to the plane.

Once on board, we sat there until about 11:30pm and then finally took off. This put us in at the airport in Guyana at about 1:30am. After clearing customs and immigration, I was in the taxi and on the way home. . . only to arrive at about 2:40am. This of course after the Police stopped our taxi and accused him of having “tint” on the back windshield (He did not, and after about 3 or 4 minutes. . .they sent us on our way.)

Once again, another eventful trip.

But you know, this one was different in one big way!

After all the trouble I had on Saturday morning, I fully expected that things to go about they way they did. So. . . I wasn’t upset, frustrated, or even unhappy. Things went pretty much as I expected them to.

You know. . .sometimes in life, the “surprises” we face on the road are unexpected. Other times, we meet obstacles that we KNOW are in front of us, so we are prepared to some degree when those problems come our way. But obstacles are obstacles. . . and we have to figure a way around them, regardless of our knowledge of their presence.

Just like the pothole in the road on our way to work each day. . .some obstacles are always there, and we can figure ways around them.

In our journey through life, we need to remember that the main obstacle out there is Satan. He is ALWAYS looking to derail us, to throw us off our journey, or to just plain destroy us. In fact, Peter warned us of this in I Peter 5:8-9. . .” Be Self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

Peter first warns us that Satan is like a Lion! He is on the prowl, he is out there, and he is LOOKING FOR YOU!

Peter warns us as well to be alert, and in control of ourselves because Satan is looking to get you. Not just to hurt you, but to devour you! But we are warned of this, and told two things. . . .we must resist, and we must remember we are not alone.

This battle we have with Satan on our journey is not just our individual battle. . . but our COLLECTIVE battle. ALL of us are involved in this battle, and must stand firm! Satan likes for us to think that we are all alone in this struggle. He knows that if we think we are alone, that we will try to deal with it alone, and it is easier for him to “pick us off”. We need to remember that ALL of us struggle with Satan, and that struggle is sure. We are NOT alone! No matter how it feels at the time, our struggle is not unique. Satan is trying to devour ALL of us!

Furthermore, I have seen many Christians who were utterly surprised with Satan’s attacks. But we shouldn’t be. We should expect him to come after us and we should expect him to try his best to cause us to lose our faith. When we know the Lion is out there, we can be watchful. . . and ready for his attack.

I fully expected Liat to do nothing different than every time I have flown with them. . .and they did not disappoint me. I was prepared for the delay, so when it happened. . . I wasn’t surprised.

We also need to fully expect Satan to come after us. We should expect him to do his dead level best to shipwreck our faith. And by knowing that, he does NOT catch us off guard. Satan is an obstacle on the road that we KNOW will be there. So be prepared for him, and don’t let him catch you off guard!

Be Watchful! Be Prepared! And don’t let him shipwreck YOUR faith!

See you on the Road!

STEVE

Crashes, Delays, and Tropical Storms!

2011-08-02T13:15:00.000-04:00

This summer has been very busy. We have had teams come and go since early June, and for a month, I have had not only a hotel full of people, but also a HOUSE full of people. And it isn’t over yet.

Several months ago, I realized that things were going to be hectic, so I planned a little trip out of Guyana to give me some down time. I decided to visit St. Lucia, and stay at a resort that I had visited about 10 years ago. I knew I would only have a small window. . . so I set up a time to come to St. Lucia that would allow me four nights here to just relax.

It has not been the trip that I thought it would be.

When I arrived at the airport in Guyana at 3:30am on Saturday morning, I was surprised to see that no passengers were being allowed into the airport. There were about 6 or 7 flights that were scheduled to leave between 5:30am and 8am. . .so there were literally HUNDREDS of people who were milling around outside.

The overhead announcement said that the airport was closed. That is basically all they said, so I started asking around if anyone knew what had happened.

As it turned out. . . there had been a mishap on the runway about 2 hours before I arrived at the airport. A Caribbean Airlines 737 had overshot the runway. I started asking around to people I knew at the airport, and there were some people who were injured. . . but no one seriously, and there had been no deaths.

As time went by, we began to find out that it just wasn’t a case of overshooting the runway. The plane had landed hard at about the mid point of the runway, then skidded off the runway, through a fence, and toward a 200 foot ravine. Then. . the plane broke in two! It suddenly looked like the airport would closed for a long while.

There has never been a large aircraft crash in Guyana. . . so equipment, trained personnel, and other emergency infrastructure simply are not in place.

Then. . flights started being cancelled at an alarming rate. My flight was delayed, but not cancelled. The aircraft I was going to be flying on. . . a Turbo Prop aircraft. . . was already on the ground, and the airline people seemed to think it was going to be allowed to leave at a later hour.

Originally, my flight to St. Lucia was going to have me depart Guyana at 5:30am, and land in Barbados at 7:30am. Then. . . at 7:50am, I would board a plane in Barbados to go on to St. Lucia, arriving there at 8:30am. I was really looking forward to a full day of just relaxing and not having to worry about anything.

Now, as I was standing outside the departures area, there were hundreds of Guyanese. . . pushing, shoving, and crowding all around. It was total and utter chaos in all directions. Hours of this kind of shoving were really taking their toll. I was hot, tired, frustrated, and grumpy to say the least.

Finally, my flight left Guyana at 7:30am, and landed in Barbados at 9:30am. Of course, I had missed my flight to St. Lucia, but the people in Guyana told me they would put me on the 1pm flight, arriving in St. Lucia at about 1:30pm.

I called the Hotel in St. Lucia and told them that I was delayed. They had arranged for transportation from the airport to the Hotel, and they informed him that I would be arriving late.

At 1pm, LIAT (the airline I was flying on. . . for the last time I might add), announced that there was some sort of problem with the aircraft and there would be a delay. . .and they would inform those of us waiting in one hour. . . .

This went on for SEVERAL HOURS! Finally ending with the passengers boarding the plane at 6:40pm.

Finally at about 7pm, we took off, and landed in St. Lucia at about 7:30pm. Although I was only 11 hours late in arriving. . . I was certainly glad to finally be here.

I arrived at the Hotel at about 8:15pm, and by about 9:15pm. . .was finally in my room. Starving, tired, and glad to be here.

The Hotel was EXTREMELY sympathetic of the day I had, so they upgraded me to a WONDERFUL Villa, high on a hillside, overlooking the ocean on the west side of the island. I was looking forward to seeing some famous Caribbean sunsets from my veranda!

Then. . . enter Tropical Storm Emily. . . LOL That’s right, Emily parked to the east of us, and started across the island on Sunday afternoon. . . so rain, rain, and more rain. Followed by high winds, flash flooding, and lightning all around.

Then. . . last night (Monday) it got even worse. . . . The rains intensified, and my Villa started leaking in crazy places. Water just appeared in several places. . . in the middle of the floor. . . with no explanation of where it was come from.

Now, here I am on Tuesday. . . it has been raining all day. . . and I still haven’t seen a Caribbean Sunset. . . .

Oh well. . . I wanted a change of pace, and something to take my mind off of Guyana. . . and it looks like I got my wish.

If you have ever seen the movie “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles”, I sort of feel like that is what I am going through at this point.

But you know what. . . I still have a wonderful view. The Hotel staff has been MARVELOUS, and I have gotten to rest, relax, and unwind. . . in spite of all that has been going on.

Lots of times, we get all upset about the things that are going on around us (and I certainly was upset in Barbados while sitting there for 9 hours in a small, hot, uncomfortable terminal.

But the truth is. . .I have a story now to tell of Plane crashes, delays, and tropical storms that I will enjoy telling for years to come!

Life on the road is often filled with interesting and amusing turns. Things simply do not happen as you plan for them to.

The question is. . . when all is coming apart around you. . .do you come apart too?

I am reminded of the day Jesus had in Jerusalem many years ago, when they came and arrested Him in the Garden. He watched is Disciples flee, He was abused by His own people, and by the Romans, He was lead from one “kangaroo court” to another, and ultimately He was crucified with common thieves.

And yet through all of that. . .He didn’t become angry, upset, or defensive. Why? Because He knew God had a purpose for Him. And guess what? God has a purpose for us too!

I don’t know what purpose is served with all the events of this week. . .but I know that GOD is in control, and He has a purpose for everything!

Romans 8:28 says it best; “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” NIV

God does work things for good. . .even when things around you are crashing, delayed, and pummeled with storms.

Look for Him. . .He is there!

See you on the Road,

STEVE

An Awesome God!

2011-07-26T22:28:00.000-04:00

This story happened about four years ago in Guyana. Colleen and I were

shopping in Georgetown and taking care of our business.

As we were coming out of one of the stores in Georgetown, a man walking by asked me for some money. I told him that I didn't have anything to give him and he walked on.

We went and got in our car and Colleen turned to me and said, "Look at that!" I turned and looked out my window, and there was the same man about half a block away and he was balancing on a post about three feet high. There was barely enough room for his feet on the top of this post, but he balanced there and was moving about and saying something.

Then, I realized what he was saying.

Over on the side of the road, a vendor was playing a Tape or CD and the Contemporary Christian song "Our God is an Awesome God" was playing. The man on the post was singing along with the song at the top of his voice. He was waving his arms, he was doing a Cross, he was bringing his hands together in prayer, all while singing at the top of his lungs and balancing on this post in the middle of the road.

I was amazed!

I got out of my car and walked over to him and handed him a small amount of money. He said "Thank you" and I said to him "NO. . . . Thank you!"

What a sermon he preached to me! To be willing to stand in the middle of the street and proclaim at the top of his lungs that his God is an Awesome God! He did it without shame, without being embarassed, or without expectation for reward.

And I was moved. I was embarassed. I was Ashamed. And I was glad I got to see this!

I hope you see something like that on the road today. I hope God speaks to you. If he does. . . I hope you hear. He really is Awesome you know.

See you on the Road!

STEVE

The Ride of Faith. . .

2011-06-28T21:36:00.002-04:00

Over this past weekend, we were really busy here in Guyana. When we have teams here, we are ALWAYS busy. But it is a good kind of busy.

As the team begins to wind down in their activities of the week, we really have a lot to do. The first part is bringing in all the supplies the team has used over the last week, making sure everything is okay and in good repair, and getting the team ready to leave. The leaving part is FULL of details.

First off, we have to make sure their tickets are reconfirmed. Here, if you don't reconfirm your ticket, the airline can give your seat away. So we get that done. Then, we go out to the airport and pre board the group. The airline has been doing this for years for us, and it really helps us and them too. We get their boarding passes for the next day, and that way we KNOW they are on the aircraft. It is good for the airline, because it allows them to pre board a large segment of the aircraft, and makes check in the next day easier for them too.

The bad side for us, is it requires TWO trips to the airport in an 18 hour period. And the airport trip is one hour each way. It is only about 25 miles one way. . .but the trip is difficult in every way. It is a two lane road, that is one of the major roads in the country. And EVERYTHING shares that road. Cars, Trucks, Busses, Farm Equipment, Horse carts, Donkey carts, cows, horses, goats, pigs, . . . . EVERYTHING.

Furthermore, it is a bumpy ride full of potholes, and other surprises. To say the least, it is a ride that is not for the faint of heart.

This past weekend, on my second round trip there. . . I was exhausted. Lucky for me, Bob was driving. This meant that I didn't pay a lot of attention to the trip, and in fact. . . I just laid back and took a nap. Now that was really a nap of faith, due to the conditions of the road. . . but I have great faith in Bob's driving ability. In fact, I slept like a baby ( as much as you can in a car hurling down a bumpy road ).

It made me think about the relationship we have with our Heavenly Father. You see, many times we try to "help" him drive down the bumpy road in front of us. We worry, we fret, we get all concerned. . . but HE is the one that is driving. Why do we forget that?

I was reading a passage today, and this really leapt out at me. Romans 5:1-2 says; " Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God."

WOW!

We put our faith in Him to drive us through the rough spots, and as a result, we have peace and grace. And this gives us every reason to rejoice! Because of the hope we have in God's glory.

I had faith in Bob as a driver, and so. . .I had peace. And Paul reminds us in Romans 5, that when we have faith in God. . . we have peace. Wonderful, refreshing, absolute peace.

Lot's of times, we lack peace...and grace in our lives. I am convinced that the reason for that is that we don't have faith in the one who is driving us on the road of life.

We lack joy in our lives because we don't have faith. We lack peace in our lives because we don't have faith. We lack grace in our lives. . . because we don't have faith.

We put faith in Bus Drivers, Airline Pilots, other drivers on the road, our Doctor's, Lawyers, and even our Preachers. . . but we don't often afford that same faith to the one who deserves it the most.

How is the Joy / Grace / Peace / and Hope factor in your life? If you find it lacking, perhaps you need to look and see who is driving. Sometimes, we try to drive ourselves, or we trust in others to drive us on the road of life. . . when God is waiting on us to let him drive.

He is worthy of our Faith. He is capable of handling our Faith in Him. And He is waiting for us to give it to Him. And He is waiting, so he can shower us with the blessing of His Peace, His Grace, His Joy, and His Hope.

Turn loose of the steering wheel. Let him drive you through the road of life! And put your Faith in Him.

Peace awaits. . . and so much more!

See you on the Road!

STEVE

That Little Red Car

2011-06-17T11:55:00.000-04:00

I mentioned my car that I owned back in the 1970’s in a recent article. That was the first car that I went to the lot and bought. It was a 1973 Ford Pinto. It had a red paint job with a white vinyl roof and black dash and carpet, with white bucket seats!

Not MY Car, but one a LOT like it!

I loved that car. It was lots of fun to drive, and thanks to my Uncle. . . it was a real head turner.

When I graduated from High School, just a few weeks later, I headed off to work with Missionaries in Africa. Before I left, I dropped off my car with my Uncle who taught at a Trade School in Body Mechanics. I had him put a “Metal Flake” red paint job, and top it off with a thick lacquer coat. (He put 17 coats of lacquer on that car, and it looked amazing!)

People couldn’t help touching that car. The red metal flake was about the size of glitter, so that car sparkled when the sun hit it!

I had all sorts of chrome trim on the car, and even under the hood. I had really “pimped my ride” long before that term became a TV show. HA

At any rate, I truly loved that car. It was fun to drive, and a joy to have people look at it.

Then. . . one day, I was driving home and was stopped to make a left hand turn when I looked up in my rear view and saw a Plymouth Fury bearing down on me at a high rate of speed. I didn’t have time to do anything up HOLD ON! ! !

BAM! ! ! ! !

He hit me and promptly knocked me about 30 yards down the road.

Now bear in mind, this is the FORD PINTO! A car FAMOUS for igniting in a rear collision!

The gas tank DID rupture, but no fire! (Thank you SO MUCH LORD!)

And in one fell swoop. . . my car was destroyed. :-(

Needless to say, that was a major disappointment.

But there was a silver lining! The insurance settlement I got went right to the bank. . . and several months later, when Colleen and I got married, that insurance money paid for our wedding and honeymoon.

Romans 8:28 says;

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

I have to tell you, that on the day the car was wrecked, I was truly depressed. Now don’t get me wrong, I was GLAD I was alive and unhurt, but I was sad to see my “first car” destroyed.

It wasn’t until later that I realized that losing that car played a big part in my wedding, and my sweet wife. I’d trade EVERY car for the sweet wife that God has blessed me with!

And the point is, that even though I was sad at first. . . God worked it for good. (Incidently, when we got married, SHE had an even BETTER CAR! A 1972 Cutlass! And I wish we still had that car! It was a slick car too!)

That is the promise of Romans 8:28. Whatever happens to us, God can and will work it for Good. . . and for His purpose.

As I look back on my life, I see lots of times where things didn’t go as I planned. I see events that at the time seemed bad. . .only to find out later that was the best possible thing that could happen! God did it back in the 1970’s, and he is STILL DOING IT TODAY!

He is doing it in your life too! You just may be missing it. Don’t let that happen. When things don’t go right, look around and see God’s hand working. You will probably be surprised at what he does.

That is good to remember on our journey!

See you on the road!

STEVE

The Football Game. . .

2011-06-14T16:43:00.000-04:00

Way back in the mid 1970's, I was in Bible School, and busily preparing myself for the work that I do even till today. Shortly after starting school, I had to make a trip to Oklahoma to pick up a car that my uncle had painted for me.

Once the car was picked up, I set off for McCrory Arkansas, where I had an appointment to speak at a church on Friday night, and again on Sunday morning. On the way to this appointment, my vehicle broke down and I ended up being towed into Ozark Arkansas. I was taken to the Ford Dealer, where they thought they had fixed the car, and sent me on my way. As dark approached, I headed out of town. . . .only to break down again about 15 miles away.

I called the same wrecker to come and get me, and he took me back to town. . .but the Ford Dealer was closed for the night. So, I ended up staying at the Ozark Motel. Now remember, this was in the mid 70's, in a small town motel. The room had a bed and bathroom, a TV and dresser, and a small table and chair. And it cost me the grand sum of $8.00 for the night!

Across the parking lot was a Tastee Freeze Drive In, so I walked over there, got me some supper, and went back to my room.

I was excited because it was Thursday night, and the Dallas Cowboys were playing a game that night on Thursday night Football. I had my night all planned out. I was going to go back to my room with my Burger from the drive in, and sprawl out on the bed and watch my Cowboys, led by Roger Staubach, win another game. (Sorry, but I have ALWAYS been a Cowboys fan. . . thick or thin. . . LOL)

I got back to my room. . . turned on the TV. . . and went over to the bed. I drug the table over by the bed and was relaxing and settling in. Just about to take a bite of my burger, I realized the TV hadn't come on yet. (Remember, this was back in the day when you turned on the TV, and waited for it to warm up.)

I waited a moment or two more, and then went over to the TV and did what you ALWAYS did during that era. . . I banged on the side of the TV. NOTHING! Now, I was in a panic! My game was about to start and I was going to miss the kick off. "How could the Hotel have a room where the TV didn't work? After all. . . I paid 8 bucks for this room, and it should have a working TV for that price!"

I called the front desk. . . No answer! I hit the TV again! No result! I turned it on and off several times. . .STILL NOTHING! ARRRGGGGHHHHHHHH! ! ! ! !

I finally decided that I had to do something, so I ran up to the office, and found the Manager. I told him my TV wasn't working and could I PLEASE get another room or another TV. He was very nice and friendly and told me he would take care of it.

I went back to my room and waited. A few moments later, he showed up with another TV. He walked in, looked around a moment, and said. . . "I think I found the problem Sir." And with that, he reached down and PLUGGED THE TV INTO THE WALL OUTLET! The TV instantly sprang to life (Just in time for the Kick off!).

At this point, I felt like I was six inches tall! I apologized to the man, who laughed and smirked, and left with a chuckle.

I have never forgotten that experience.

First off, that I got so upset and out of sorts over a game on TV.

And Secondly, because the problem was so simple. The TV just needed to be plugged into the power!

Isn't that the way things are in our lives sometimes? We wonder why our life isn't working. We become frustrated when things don't go our way. We catch ourselves yelling at the top of our voices. . ."WHY! ! ! ? ? ? "

And yet, many times we are simply not plugged into the Power source. What is that Power source you ask?

The only place we receive power, the only place we can turn to end the frustration and lack of things working out. . . is God! He is our Power Source!

Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,"

Do you get that? HE can cause us to go beyond our wildest imagination. . . according to HIS Power that is at work within us! God is the Power Source! And He can do GREAT things with us. . . if we are plugged in.

When I look back on my life at the times I have messed things up the most, it is most often due to the fact that I am not plugged into His power. Instead, I am trying to do things according to MY POWER. (And I don't even have the "power" to plug in a Television Set!)

When our journey brings us to times when things aren't working right. . . perhaps before we get all excited and try to fix it ourselves, or try to get others to fix it for us, we should see if we are plugged into the TRUE and ONLY power source.

God's power will sustain us! God's power will energize us! God's power will see us through!

So don't get excited when things go wrong on your journey. Just make sure you are plugged in!

See you on the Road!

STEVE

Traveling out of your Comfort Zone

2011-06-11T00:20:00.000-04:00

One of the things that is MOST appealing to me about travel, is the fact that when you go somewhere other than home. . .then you experience new and different things. That is sort of the point of traveling. In fact, if you want things to ALWAYS be the same way. . .then one would just stay home.

Back in March, I entered an article here in my blog about the flooding. In fact, the title was "Water, Water, Everywhere. . . " . It explained why we have the flooding that we have here in Guyana.

Right now, in our house, we are suffering from the OPPOSITE of that. We are experiencing a LACK of water. In order to explain why, I have to tell you how a house gets "running water" here in Guyana in the first place. It truly is amazing.

The Guyana Water Authority is the local water company. It is owned and operated by the Government of Guyana, and supplies water to the Greater Georgetown area. The problem is, they don't have any really water tanks, like we see in the USA that supply the necessary pressure needed to supply water to homes and businesses in our communities.

That fact, coupled with the fact that water pipes are often broken here so people can get water, and you end up with two things. . . 1.) No real water pressure, and 2.) water that is contaminated and therefore not drinkable. No home, apartment, or hotel that we have lived or stayed in here in Guyana has water that you could or would drink out of the tap. In many cases, the water is a nice brown color, and you use it only for washing and bathing.

The bottled water industry in Guyana is BIG and necessary. Without it, Typhoid and other water borne illnesses would be common place.

Now because of the low water pressure, the water company turns off the water in various areas for large portions of the day. Here at our house, we have water pressure from the "City tap" about 4 to 6 hours a day. During that time, we fill two large 800 Gallon tanks that are on the ground. That water is then pumped to tanks on the second level, and on the roof level, where we can have pressure from there. We also have our gutter system on the house set up so it drains into the tanks, and fills them with rain water when we don't have water coming from the city water supply.

We also have a small pressure tank, that gives us good pressure throughout the house, even on the second floor. But it all works only if we have water in the tanks, and if our pump is working properly.

Once the water reached the pump system, it is pumped through a filtration system, that makes it as pure as the water you have in your house. So for the first time ever, here in Guyana, we can drink the water from the tap. I have to tell you, that amazes me more than anything else here. Actually being able to drink the tap water! (Isn't it amazing what you get excited about when you are out of your comfort zone? HA)

Yesterday afternoon, our pump went out. And it took a good 24 hours to get that replaced, and installed. Then, tonight, we had a pipe break leaving the pump, and all the water drained out of the overhead tanks. So we are back to no water on the second floor, where all our bedrooms are and most of our bathrooms are, and VERY little water pressure downstairs.

Oh the fun of travel!

But the truth is, that is almost ALWAYS the way things are when we travel out of our comfort zone. If it isn't the water, then the flight is delayed, or the bags don't arrive, or the Air Conditioning isn't working, or the electricity goes off, or on and on and on. When we are outside of the warm and comfortable comfort zone we have created for ourselves, then anything can happen. And it usually does.

Now when those things happen that our out of our control, we have several choices.
1. We can complain, and tell everyone around us about how uncomfortable we are, and how much we hate our present condition.
2. We can quickly make plans to leave, and run back to our comfort zone.
3. We can make the most of the situation, and strive to enjoy the "adventure" that is playing out before us.

Now I would love to tell you that I always pick Number 3, but like many of us, there are times when I complain, and there are times when I just quit and go home. However, the rich memories that I have, and some of the best stories that I have to tell, are when things didn't go well, and I just stayed and lived through the situation.

Jesus did that you know. He left His comfort zone. . . the very throne room of God. . . and came down here to earth to live as we do. He experienced the same disappointments, the same set backs, the same problems that we do every day. And He could have complained. . . or gone home. . . but He didn't. He stuck around, toughed it out, and did the job He came to do. And we are still talking about it today, some 2,000 years later.

Philippians 2 says it best. . .

⁵ In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

⁶ Who, being in very nature^[a] God,
   did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
⁷ rather, he made himself nothing
   by taking the very nature^[b] of a servant,
   being made in human likeness.
⁸ And being found in appearance as a man,
   he humbled himself
   by becoming obedient to death—
      even death on a cross!

⁹ Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
   and gave him the name that is above every name,
¹⁰ that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
   in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
¹¹ and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
   to the glory of God the Father.

Do you get that? Jesus, who was GOD. . . humbled himself and became a servant! A servant that was obedient even to the point of a horrible, painful death on the cross. He did this because He had left His comfort zone, and came here to do a job. And not just a normal job. . . but a job motivated out of love. . . for us.

And even when the job became difficult, and unpleasant. . . He still did it.

And God exalted Him!

I believe this passage teaches that when we tough things out, and do what God has called us to do. . . even when it is outside of our comfort zone. . .that He will exalt us too! Why do I say that? Because of the challenge at the start of the passage. Our mindset is to be the same as the mindset of Jesus!

So. . . when God calls you out of your comfort zone, remember that you are in good company. Jesus walked that road before us! He toughed it out, and finished the journey. And God exalted Him for it.

He exalts us too when we overcome the obstacles on the road! Those roadblock and broken water pipes that Satan throws in our way. . . He exalts us above them.

Make your mindset the same as that of Jesus! Overcome the attacks on your comfort zone! And God will exalt you too!

See you on the Road!

STEVE

Traveling again. . . .

2011-06-06T01:30:00.000-04:00

Since the first of the year, I have traveled over 12,000 miles by airplane, and over 5,000 miles by car. That is a LOT of travel time! Of course, if you are writing a blog titled "Mile Markers along the Way" you would expect that travel would be involved, and in my life, it certainly is.

The last trip was my flight back to Guyana. When I last contributed to this blog, I was in Guyana dealing with flooding. Since that time, I have been back to the states, traveled back and forth to Florida twice. Spent time in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and of course. . . at home in Arkansas. I've conducted a wedding, been there at the birth of my new Grand Daughter, went with my son to his first Football meeting at Junior High, and visited with lots and lots of old friends along the way.

This trip to Guyana has been different in so many ways. . . .

Traveling down, I got "upgraded" at JFK by the ticket agent, and ended up flying First Class all the way to Guyana. What an AMAZING treat! I have been upgraded a couple of times before, but usually on a flight of only an hour or so. An hour of First class flying is just enough to let you know that you like it, but not enough time to really settle in and enjoy the experience.

This time though, I sat there for six hours in a chair as comfortable as my recliner in my "Man Cave" at home. I kicked off my shoes, laid back with a real pillow and blanket, and relished every single moment.

And the Breakfast! Let me just say that it was the best airline food I have EVER had. WOW!

What a GREAT way to start the trip.

However, due to the new arrival of our Grand Daughter, and Isaiah having Football practice all summer long, Colleen and Isaiah are not coming down with me. Being in Guyana for three months without my family is not exactly what I would prefer. In fact, it is NOT at all what I prefer. But sometimes, things don't exactly go the way you prefer do they?

So here I am, in Guyana, getting ready for the summer activity, and gearing up for lots and lots of work. And without my family here to help me, keep me balanced, and get me through the rough spots.

Now I'm not starting a "Pity Parade" or even asking you to start one for me. The truth is, I have known this was the way it was going to play out for a while. When our Daughter told us she was pregnant, and I figured out the general timeline of delivery, I knew there was going to be NO WAY that my wife was going to leave that Grand Baby. . . nor did I even want her to.

Furthermore, I knew that Isaiah was VERY motivated and interested in playing football through school, and with that was going to come summer practice.

So I knew this was coming, and particularly I knew it was coming THIS YEAR!

But you know, sometimes we know the road ahead is going to be rough and difficult. Sometimes we are aware of the potholes and heavy traffic we are going to face, and we think "Not a problem. . .I can handle it." And the truth is. . . most times we can. But knowing about it in advance and getting mentally prepared is totally different than dealing with is up close and personal.

If you are like me, and even though you thought you were prepared, you suddenly find yourself up close and personal with a difficult road. . . then remember you are NOT alone!

First off, there are LOT'S of us who either have been there, or are currently there! Lot's of times on that Lonely and Difficult road, we think we are the only ones there. . . but we're not. Just look around. You are likely to find others who are on the same roadway with you. . . and dealing with exactly the same thing. And they can help you along the journey too. But only if you let them help. Don't be afraid to admit you are alone, and tired, and scared.

Furthermore, Jesus promised you that you would NEVER be alone. . . even on a lonely road! His promise in Matthew 28 is "and lo, I am with you always. . .even to the end of the world." I don't know the number of times that promise hasn't sustained me through the lonely stretches of highway. . . and it can sustain you too!

He will NEVER leave you alone on the roadway.

Remember that! And you never know. . .you might just feel like you have had an "upgrade" too!

See you on the Road!
STEVE

Water, Water, Everywhere. . . .

2011-03-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

Well, the past few weeks here in Guyana have really been somewhat exciting. . .

Actually, originally, I was supposed to be back in the states by now. But a little over two weeks ago, after a month of heavy rain, we have TONS of rain over the weekend, and the flooding started.

To understand why we have flooding, the first thing you have to know is that most of the Coastal area of Guyana is BELOW SEA LEVEL, including the entire capitol city of Georgetown.

We live and work mostly on the East Coast area of Georgetown, about six miles east of the city. This area, and the area to our east, is some of the lowest of the region. As a result, when we get a lot of rain, and the tide is high, the water literally has no where to go.

The Dutch originally settled this area, and they certainly know how to deal with areas that are below sea level. They built sea walls all along the coast, and then, built a large network of canals and ditches. They also built what is referred to as the Conservancy. This area is a LARGE man made lake. . . THOUSANDS AND THOUSAND of acres, and located to the south of us by about 4 or 5 miles. This area, known as the Conservancy, holds water during High Tide, and allows the water a place to go. The Canals all lead to the Conservancy, or to the Atlantic Ocean. When the tide is LOW. . . they open gates, that allow the water to flow out into the ocean. When the tide is High. . . then the water goes to the Conservancy.

The problem we had recently was that the Conservancy was full. . . the RAIN fell all day and all night, and the gates couldn't be opened for part of that time due to unseasonable high tides.

This picture above was taken right outside our house. The house on the left had about 3 inches of water all over the lower level. The house behind us also had water in the lower level. Our co workers, Alvin and Ingrid Persaud had SIX INCHES of water in their house for 5 days! And Salita Pooran, our office manager, had water RIGHT UP to her door, and ALL OVER HER YARD AND SIDEWALK. It made it impossible for her to walk to and from her house to go to work without getting SOAKED from mid calf down. . . .UGH.

Yet through all of this, and all the destruction the flooding caused. . . these people kept a smile on their face, and went about their business.

Some friends of mine literally lost EVERYTHING they have because they lived in a lower level flat, and the water rose to over a foot. Their mattresses were on the floor, so they lost those, and they had no real furniture, so the clothing and food that they had in boxes on the floor were also either damaged or destroyed. And yet THEY still go about their business. . .and continue to smile and be faithful!

What an incredible thing to watch!

How would you face this kind of Challenge?

I am often in awe of the people here, because they have nothing compared to our standards, and yet, they are willing to share, take care of others, and bear up under the strain of losing all they have. And yet, they go on with their lives and keep a smile on their face.

I asked someone the other day who had lost almost everything how he did it. He looked at me, smiled, and said "Brother, I remember the verse. . . I can do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me." Tears came to my eyes! And in fact, even as I write this, I fight back the tears again.

Lot's of times on the road, we deal with challenges. Things happen that we don't expect. Rains and Floods threaten to sweep us away.

Perhaps we need to remember that no matter what the challenge. . . no matter what the threat. . . We CAN do all things through Christ. . .who strengthens us!

See you on the Road!

STEVE

FORE! ! ! ! !

2011-01-07T01:20:00.000-05:00

Today was truly a funny and amazing day!

I was out playing golf with a friend of mine. We were having a GREAT TIME. . . talking, solving the problems of the world, and just having a wonderful time. (Although my golf score would never testify to that! HA)

On the 14th Tee, we were on a Par three that was elevated and made it hard to see the green. As I teed off, instantly, I knew I was in trouble. The ball was headed for a large tree to the right and just in front of the green. It hit the tree and bounced around. We soon lost sight of it.

My partner said "Don't worry, I don't think you are in trouble." And off we went to find out where our golf balls had landed.

His was just to the right of the green, but not in any trouble. On the other hand, I couldn't find mine anywhere. We both searched and searched, but to no avail. Finally, I looked up into the tree. . . and there was my ball. . . about 25 feet up, sitting in the tree as pretty as you please.

We both laughed and laughed! ( I tried to lobby for the fact that this should have counted as a hole in one. . . but my partner would not have it. HA) In fact, my partner went on to say, "I have NEVER seen a hole in one. . . but I have NEVER SEEN THAT HAPPEN EITHER!

I had to stop and take a photo (Which is above and to the left.), and we talked about that the rest of the game.

The truth is. . that was a HORRIBLE SHOT! And it really cost me in terms of my score as well. . .but is still was the funniest thing I have seen in a long time on the golf course.

Isn't that the way life is too?

Many times, try as we may, life does not "turn out" the way we plan. We can try to do all the right things, and even work at "getting the shots just right", but sometimes. . .it just doesn't go the way we planned.

We are in good company when that happens. The Bible is FULL of stories of things that didn't go as they were planned. People who think they have everything set up just right, and every situation thought out. . . only to find that God has OTHER PLANS. I know my life has certainly been that way.

The question is, "What do we do when things don't happen as we planned?"

The truth is, we can react in several ways;

1. We can moan and groan about the problems that have come our way, and become bitter.

2. We can give up and do something else.

3. We can learn from the challenges before us, and try to do better next time.

4. Or we can laugh, and enjoy the new development. . . and move on!

Today, I chose to do Number 4! Sometimes, you just have to see the humor in what has happened, enjoy the surprise of the moment, and just move on.

Truthfully, many of the things that develop in our lives ARE funny. . . if we can just stop and see the humor.

Why not accept the challenge to smile and laugh at yourself when things don't go as you planned, and just move on? You may find it is JUST the medicine you need!

Give it a try this week! And if I'm on the golf course. . . you might want to keep your eyes peeled too! HA

See you on the Road!

STEVE

"Stop the Ride. . . I wanna get off! ! !"

2010-10-26T06:33:00.001-04:00

Years ago, I was on a ride at a fair in Africa, and the ride attendant walked away. The ride was one of those "Swing Rides" where you sit in a chair, suspended by chains, and spin around. I was on that ride for about 10 minutes. . . and I have to tell you, I haven't been on one since!

I utterly felt like I had lost control and was at the mercy of the ride, and missing attendant. It was scary in every way!

Over the past two months, I have felt like I have been on one of those rides again. . . for most of the two months. Life has been spinning faster and faster, and it seems like it just wouldn't stop. In fact, I'm not sure it has stopped YET! But at least I am coping a little better.

I have to tell you, I am sorry that I have not been around for the past two months. When I started this blog, I had every intention of writing something every few days to encourage us on our journey through life. And then life caught up with me. HA

Isn't that just how life is? About the time we have things "figured out", life starts spinning and just doesn't seem to stop. When Peter stepped out of that boat and started walking toward Jesus, I suspect he thought he had things figured out. . . but it didn't take long and his life started spinning around him. Next thing he did was start to sink! Can any of you relate to that "sinking feeling"? I know I can.

I suspect that Peter felt the same way I did. . . out of control! And scared to death!

But then Peter did something very smart! He yelled out "Lord, Save Me!" And Jesus did!

When our life starts to spin, and we feel overwhelmed. . . when we start sinking and all looks lost. . . perhaps we should look to Jesus and yell "Lord, Save Me!". He's still there. . . just waiting for our call.

Don't let life spin out of control for you. And certainly don't try to deal with the spinning alone. Jesus isn't like that ride attendant that walked away from my ride in Africa to leave me spinning round and round. He is there to stop the ride. . . and whisk you away in His arms!

Is your life spinning?

Are you sinking fast?

Call out to him. He's still there, and He will see you through!

See you on the Road,
Steve

Sunrise! ! ! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh. . . .

2010-08-15T19:23:00.000-04:00

I do believe my favorite time of day is Sunrise.

Now, as my wife reads this, she will say "WHAT?!?" Because I am NOT a morning person. I am a night owl.

As a result, most of the sunrises I have seen are a result of my being up all night, and catching the sunrise then. And they are always special to me!

Sunsets are beautiful too, and here in the Caribbean region, there are some spectacular sunsets! But Sunset's almost make me a little sad. It is an ending. . . and I suppose I don't like endings as much as I like beginnings.

Sunrises on the other hand ARE a beginning. With the rising of the sun comes hope, and excitement, and anticipation! What will today bring? How are things going to unfold today?

For me, Sunrises take more work to enjoy too. To get up in time to watch the sunrise is really difficult for me. Sunsets on the other hand are very easy. You just have to be there.

The picture that is on display with this story is one that I took a few days ago, right outside my office here in Guyana. I love seeing the Sunrise, or even a full moon, through the leaves of a Palm Tree. There is something exotic, and lovely, and heartwarming about it.

As the sun peaks over the horizon for the first time in the day, it is almost saying "Hey. . . time for a new start! Time to see what wonders the day has to offer!" I like that.

Jesus was a fan of sunrises. At least I think that is the case, since he chose to come out of the tomb first thing in the morning. That certainly was His new beginning. . . and ours too! When he came out of that tomb, he was saying "Hey. . time for a new start! Time to see the wonders that God has to offer those who chose to follow me!"

I suppose that is why I like sunrises so. It reminds me of the new start we receive in Christ!

Are you enjoying the sunrise in your life? Jesus said "I have come that you might have life, and have it more abundantly!" And that sunrise, that Resurrection of His insures our abundant life.

The great thing is, that His sunrise insures for us a fresh start! A time to start with a clean slate, and revel in His sunrise.

Take time to enjoy the sunrise. Not just the one at the beginning of the day, but the one provided by the Son. Enjoy the new beginning!

See you on the Road!
STEVE

Maintenance Work

2010-08-15T04:23:00.000-04:00

Recently, here in Guyana, we had to do a lot of maintenance work to our fleet of vehicles. As time goes by, this becomes an issue more and more. (Our newest vehicle is a 1992 model.)

With any vehicle, especially an older one, preventive maintenance is vitally important. As machinery gets older, careful attention must be taken to make sure that everything is maintained and taken care of. Otherwise, when you need the vehicle the most, it may not be able to deliver.

The same is true with us! What are you doing to make sure that you maintain yourself?

Pay close attention here, because I am not just talking about physical maintenance. Although physical maintenance IS important. . . we are not mere machines. We are spiritual beings. And since we are not mere machines. . . we have to take care of what is in our hearts, as well as what makes us tick physically.

Jesus understood this, and took time off for personal maintenance. It was vital to His work, and it is vital to us too. Take a look here.

Mark 6:30-31
³⁰The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. ³¹Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

The Holy Bible : New International Version. 1996

Jesus knew the importance of moving to a quiet place and getting rest.

Sometimes, in our society today, it is difficult to get rest. We roll out of bed early in the morning, and have a long list of things to do. We are off to work, getting the kids off to school, running from one appointment to another, shopping, paying bills, . . . . living. We just get too busy.

If we are not careful, we don't take care of ourselves. . . either physically OR spiritually.

What are you doing to take care of yourself?

The journey we are on is a one way trip to Heaven. And we have to take care of ourselves if we are going to reach our destination.

Just like the vehicles we have here in Guyana. . . if we want them to get us where we need to go, we have to take care of them. If YOU want to get to your final destination, you have to do the same.

Are you spending time in prayer, study, and meditation? If not, your maintenance may need to be looked at.

Don't miss out on the destination because you didn't take care of an "oil change" in your spiritual life. Spend time reading your Bible. Talk to God everyday. And retreat to a quiet place every once in a while.

Taking care of the maintenance will insure you make it on the journey.

See you on the road!

STEVE

Mountain Top Experience II

2010-08-12T17:22:00.000-04:00

The next year, after climbing Crestone Peak, I got the opportunity to climb Mt. Elbert. I had never heard of Mt. Elbert, so I did some research. Imagine my surprise when I found out that Mt. Elbert was the HIGHEST mountain in Colorado. . . standing at 14,443 Feet.

What an incredible Mountain!

On the day of our summit attempt, we started early, just like we did on Crestone. As the team started the climb, I began to slowly drift further and further behind. By the time we cleared the timber line, I knew I was in trouble and probably wouldn't make it to the top. Actually, that was fine with me. I was tired and decided that I would just stop and rest, perhaps take a nap, and then join the group as they came down the mountain.

I was just relaxing and starting to doze off, when I heard a noise above me. When I opened my eyes, there was one of the young men on the trip, Tracy. He said "What are you doing?" I told him that I was going to stay here, and he should go on. He climbed down from where he was and told me that since I wasn't going to the top, he wasn't going to the top. I argued with him for a while, but soon saw that he was serious. . . so I got up and started walking with him.

The angle of ascent for us had some surprises. In fact, about a half dozen "False Summits". A False summit is when you see a valley, and a rise, and what appears to be the top of the mountain. Only when you get to that "top", you discover there is another valley, rise, and "top" ahead of you. After you have done this two or three times, it really starts to play with you head.

After clearing the false summits, and finally seeing the REAL summit ahead, I simply ran out of gas. I was totally exhausted and literally could not pick my feet up. I laid down and Tracy again said, "What are you doing? The top is just right there! Come on. . . let's go!"

I looked up at Tracy and told him that not only would I not make it to the top, but that I was pretty sure I wouldn't make it down either. I was TOTALLY spent. I then told him that if he wanted to make it to the top. . he better go now. (No. . .I didn't think I was going to die, I just thought I would end up spending the night on the mountain top.)

With tears in his eyes, Tracy walked the rest of the way up to the mountain. As I watched him go, I saw how his shoulders were slumped, and how he was genuinely disappointed that I wasn't going to make it to the top.

Shortly after he got to the top, I saw him coming back, with about six other guys from our Youth Group. When they got to me, one of the young men said "What's going on?" I told him I was spent, that not only would I not make it to the top, but I might not even make it back to our campsite that night. I was literally as exhausted as I have ever been.

With that revelation, the young men looked at each other, and did the most amazing thing. They picked me up and carried me to the top! Now remember, we were above 14,000 feet! There was very little oxygen in the air, and here these guys were carrying me! (Mind you, I wasn't as heavy then as I am now. . .but it was still a job.)

When we got to the top, several of us hugged, and cried, and basked in what had just happened! It was amazing! And one of the most humbling experiences of my life.

Long story short, several of the guys, and our guide, walked me down the mountain and the closer we got to camp. . the better I began to feel. (Incidently, I went back years later with my wife and oldest daughter, and we climbed that mountain again. . together.)

So what did I learn?

First, I would have never made it to the top without Tracy. He was a young man, but he pushed, prodded, and encouraged me almost from the start of that days climb to make it. I have thought of him often, and know without a doubt that I would have never made it without HIS HELP!

Second, I learned the power of a group. Those young men that Tracy brought back made absolutely certain that I was going to make it to the top. . . even if it meant carrying me there! That group made sure that I made it!

Finally, I learned that I would NOT have made it to the top if I had allowed my pride to get in the way. Lot's of times people offer to help, and because of our pride. . . we don't let them. And we miss out on the Mountain top!

Sometimes, we need to be Tracy. We need to be willing to do all we can do to help those around us. We need to push, prod, and encourage those who don't think they can make the journey.

Sometimes, we need to be the group. Because sometimes it just takes more than one to make it on the journey. And the power that the group offers, often allows us to do things that are incredibly difficult.

And sometimes, we need to swallow our pride and let people help. That is hard to do, but when we do. . the Mountain top awaits!

What's keeping you from the Mountain Top?

See you on the road!
STEVE

Mountain Top Experience!

2010-08-11T00:14:00.000-04:00

Many years ago, I went on a “Wilderness Trek” in Colorado. I have to tell you, it was one of the most spiritually enriching things I have ever been involved in. It was truly an amazing experience.

We ended up climbing a mountain in Colorado that was 14,294 feet to the summit. Crestone Peak is the 7th highest mountain in Colorado, and one that offers an incredible view from the top! And the view along the way was nothing short of breathtaking. From the very first camp, until the top of the mountain, the scenery and the view were something that I will never, ever forget.

On the morning of the summit attempt, I was awakened by our guide, walking around the camp waking everyone up with a loud “Wakey Wakey!” As I rolled out of my sleeping bag (literally since we were on the side of the mountain), I remembered thinking “Are we climbing this mountain in the dark?” (It was still pitch black outside.)

This was the beginning of a long long day, and certainly was not the first rude awakening of the day.

We were camped just below “timber line” which is right at 12,000 feet. Do you know why the call it Timber line? Because at that point, the trees, and even grass, doesn’t grow. Do you know why? Because the air is too thin. I didn’t know this fact either that morning, but I was soon to find out.

As we started the journey, it was very interesting. I walked across a patch of ice that was larger than the size of a football field. However, this football field was on a MAJOR INCLINE. . .and some of our party slid down the patch more than once.

After we got through the ice floe, then. . . .the steepness of the journey increased in a drastic way. Very quickly, the teens and younger folks in our group moved ahead of me. . .and I found myself alone. I kept climbing.

Quickly, I noticed the lack of oxygen. In fact, it got so bad, that I would walk for a minute, and stop and rest for a minute. . . or two. . .or five. I was constantly out of breath.

As the climb got steeper, and the air got thinner, my resolve to make it to the top began to shrink. . . as quickly as some of my friends had slid down the ice earlier.

That is when ONE VERSE from the New Testament really sprung out at me. Here it is;

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

I bet a quoted that verse a thousand times that day. I would stop and huff and puff, quote the verse, say a prayer, and move on. I climbed, cried, rested, and climbed some more.

And found the strength to make it to the top!

When I got there, I did not expect what happened next. There at the top were several of my party who obviously had beat me to the top. And what happened next was amazing!

As I came over the top, they started applauding! Then, they rushed forward and hugged me! I was totally enveloped in love and approval!

I felt FANTASTIC!

I had never had a “Mountain Top Experience” . . . on a MOUNTAIN TOP before!

They sang, they prayed, they hugged! And I felt wonderful!

Imagine what it would be like to have that kind of reception after you had just climbed hand over fist to the top of your last mountain? Just think about how you would have felt, if someone had hugged, prayed with, and sang to you, as you rose over the top of your last “difficult climb”.

You know. . .that is EXACTLY what we are here to do! To encourage, cheer, and praise those who have gone through a difficult journey, and have come out on the other end.

Are you one of those people who cheers and encourages others along the roadway of life? You can be. Just decide that is what you are going to do. . .and then. . . .JUST DO IT!

After that terrible climb, I could have cheer all alone. But the victory was 100% better with other who knew what I had just overcome, and were willing to wait for me, and cheer me on!

What about you?

See you on the Road!

STEVE

Out of Power. . . .

2010-08-10T15:44:00.000-04:00

Once, while driving between Muskogee Oklahoma and Fort Smith Arkansas, my car just stopped. No power, no nothing! I tried to start the car, but no click, not engine turn over, no nothing.

Then, as if that wasn't enough. . . NO CELL PHONE SERVICE!

What made this even worse, was I was on a deserted stretch of the Turnpike, early on Sunday morning. . . on my way to speak at a Church. I was all dressed up in my suit, had my lesson all prepared, and was out of power. . . TOTALLY!

What an adventure!

I know on your journey through life, you have no doubt had those episodes where everything in your life, and perhaps even you yourself, felt powerless. It sure is a lost, frustrating, and almost hopeless feeling.

What to do, what to do?

On this particular occasion, when the car just stopped, I coasted down a hill. So, I decided that maybe if I walked up the hill, I could get a cell signal, or perhaps see a house in the distance. So uphill I walked. . . to find NOTHING as far as I could see.

I took out my phone, and alas. . . a spotty signal. I tried calling the church I was going to speak at, but kept getting cut off. It was crazy.

After several minutes of trying, and no cars coming in either direction. . . I decided to walk back to the car and wait. As I was walking back, I know I was a sight. Walking along a deserted stretch of road, just as the sun has come up, with nothing or no one in sight. . . dressed in my finest suit! Talk about overdressed for the situation.

Just before I got back to my car, I heard the sound of traffic behind me, and turned around in time to see a LARGE CONVOY of U.S. National Guardsmen bearing down on me. No doubt, they thought I was a strange sight too. . . so they stopped.

When I explained that my rented car just stopped for no reason, they called back to someone in the convoy whose regular job was a Service Repairman for the very model I was driving. He came, asked me what happened, and promptly raised the hood and fixed the problem. ( A loose connection on a wire! ) With that, they whisked away, and shortly thereafter, I was on my way too. . . albeit late.

The truth is, when we are battling with feelings of "powerlessness", the fact is. . . we just may be disconnected from THE Power source.

Hallelujah!

Praise God in His sanctuary.

Praise Him in His mighty heavens.

2 Praise Him for His powerful acts;

praise Him for His abundant greatness.

Psalms 150:1-2

Lot's of times, when my "power" is running low, and things seem to spin out of control, I have found that I have just forgotten that God is in His Sanctuary and He has the power. God really is our power source. . . and He is THE Power Source.

Right now in the world, there is lot's of turmoil and we often feel out of control. There are lot's of people, politicians, pundits, and advisors that would like to make you think they have the answers, and if you just follow them. . . everything will be alright. Just remember who really IS in control. Remember who is in His Sanctuary and Praise Him!

Jesus said it best in Matthew 28:18-20. He said "All authority has been given to me in Heaven and on Earth." (In other words. . . HE has the power!) He reminds us that even when things seem out of control. . . He is in control. He is THE control.

And he reminds us at the end of that text, "And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world."

That power source, who is in charge and in control, has promised us that we are not alone. He is always with us. He will see us through, and make sure that we are in His care.

So. . . if you are feeling powerless. If the "speed bumps" of the journey are frustrating you and you can't seem to get control. Remember who the power source is. If you aren't feeling His power. . . perhaps you have just become disconnected.

Reconnect to the Power Source!

See you on the Road.

STEVE

What WAS that?

2010-08-09T16:05:00.000-04:00

Not long ago, my wife (Colleen) and I were driving from Georgetown to the airport. This is a drive that usually takes about an hour, and is full of surprises along the way.

About 25 minutes into our journey, we were passing through a community, and up ahead, I could see a man out walking his pet. I wasn't really paying close attention to it, but as we got even with the man, I glanced over and was puzzled at what I saw. This animal, that was on a leash, looked like a cross between a dog, a monkey, and a raccoon.

As we passed by, I turned and asked Colleen, "Did you SEE that?" "I am so glad you saw it too!" was her reply, followed by "What WAS that?" I didn't know.

I found out later that it was a Sloath. An animal common to the Jungle here in Guyana. It certainly is NOT the common type of house pet.

The truth is, on the road here there are often strange things to be seen. Cars and trucks of every shape and size, families of four or five. . . all riding on the same motorcycle, people walking, and people on bicycles. And of course, there are Horse carts, Donkey carts, push carts, Cows, Pigs, Goats, Horses, and Donkey's sharing the same roadway. I have even seen gators and LARGE Snakes on the road as well.

In truth, we never know what we are going to find on the road here. Some of the surprises are humorous, some are strange, and some are sad or scary.

Everything and anything is possible on the roadways in Guyana. Everything shares the road.

Isn't that the way it is in the world. We are all here together. Great and small, happy and sad, on foot or traveling by car. . . we all share the same place. Sometimes we may seem odd to others, and sometimes . . . others may seem odd to us. But we ALL share the same road. We are all God's creatures, trying to get where we need to go.

As we travel the roadway together, in Guyana or anywhere else in the world, lets remember we are all here together. We are traveling together. And the journey is the same for all of us. . . ultimately.

It wouldn't be right or proper to tell others. . . even the pigs. . . that they have no right to be on the road. Here in Guyana, and on life's journey too, we are ALL on the road. We are all on the journey together.

And here is another thought. . .
While we are on the road, we are OFTEN going to be met by surprises. It may be a strange animal on the side of the road, being led around on a leash. It may be a blowout! It may be any sort of surprise that interrupts your journey.

At that time of surprise, look around. . . AND LOOK UP . . . for help! There is help out there. And God sends it in many forms.

Be on the lookout to let God use YOU for help as well. There are lots of broken hearts on the roadway. And you might be just the one to start the healing. Let God use you. Look around for those who need your help.

After all. . . .we are all on the road together.

See you on the road!
STEVE

From Guyana. . .

2010-08-08T17:32:00.000-04:00

As I write this post, I am sitting in my office just east of Georgetown Guyana. I live here about half of the year, and have done so for almost twenty years. What an amazing place!

Guyana is what is commonly referred to as a "Developing Nation", which means that a lot of the people live at or below the poverty level. Many of my friends here do not have the "things" that most of us in the USA take for granted. But the people here are some of the richest people I know!

They have a real capacity to love, and be loved! They are truly some of the most sharing and hospitable people I have ever met! Total strangers here will offer me a place to stay, and will care for me as long as I need their help.

What a GREAT PLACE!

The weather here is also amazing! It is what I call "endless summer". The year round, the temperature is between 70 and 92 degrees. As a result, you don't ever see the changing of the seasons. About the only change here is rainy season, or not rainy season. We get between 7 and 10 feet of rain a year here! (Can anyone say "Rain Forest"?)

Simple things that we take for granted in the USA are not so simple here. The electricty "comes and goes" here a lot. In fact, yesterday we had three "Blackouts", and that is not uncommon.

Furthermore, although the name Guyana means "land of many waters", for the most part. . . you cannot drink the tap water. You really have to be careful, or Typhoid can rear it's ugly head.

Malaria is a common illness in the interior. Imagine that!

Yet with all the challenges, and with all the difficulties, the people here are some of the happiest I know! Seems they have learned to enjoy the journey. . . even if it has it's challenges!

What about you? Do you have challenges in your life that make you complain? Why not take a look at the things in your life that make you happy? We all have them. . . we just have to look sometimes!

As you travel along the way, take time to look at the things that are good in your life. Stop and smell the roses. Look at the clouds. Enjoy the sunset. Take time to be with your family and friends. Watch a child playing. Breathe in the fresh air. Enjoy the change of seasons.

Whatever it is. . . enjoy the Mile Markers along the way! You'll be glad you did!

See you on the road!

STEVE

Welcome to the Journey!

2010-08-08T17:19:00.000-04:00

I LOVE TO TRAVEL!

I don't know about you but for me, to pack my bags and get ready for a trip is really a rush! In fact, most of the time, the planning of the trip starts weeks ahead of the trip, and the anticipation is part of the fun!

Sometimes on the Journey, we get bogged down in the aspect of "Are we there yet?". What a shame. Part of the fun of the journey is getting there! And too many times, we are more concerned with where we are going, than where we are right now!

Hopefully, as we take a look at the Mile Markers Along the Way, we will really enjoy the journey.

Life is a journey you know.

Even if you don't leave your hometown your whole life, you are still on a journey. What Mile Markers have you passed? What are the "mile stones" that have made up your life along the way?

Maybe we can look at all that together!

At any rate, enjoy the journey! And let's take a long at the Mile Markers along the way!

See you on the road!

STEVE