The A.C. Town Family

LSU BUZZ

2011-05-22T13:43:00.001-07:00

I looked down the other night and saw Will's Buzz Lightyear on the floor, but there was something different on his head. Will had placed an LSU helmet on Buzz's head. .....well, that's my boy! Well, I decided that was a cool idea and took Buzz outside the next day for a photo op .....of course I made sure he had his new head gear on...!

Summer 2010

2010-09-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

This past summer my family was blessed with the opportunity to take a trip with the Roddy's,.....friends we go to church with. This was to be a 2 week, over 4,000 mile jaunt through part of the midwest, great plains and west (yellowstone national park and grand teton national park). As the story goes, and as I understand it, the Roddy's were planning a trip for Angelle Roddy, as a graduation present. Somewhere along the way, we were invited to come along and make it a dual family vacation/graduation trip.
Cast of characters: PR Roddy, Angelle Roddy,
Kevin Roddy, Cooper Roddy,
Katherine Roddy, Jack Roddy

Adam Town, Julie Town,
Cathy Town, William Town

My family alone took somewhere around 700-800 pictures. Here are just a few from the trip!!

"The Canyon" in Yellowstone NP

The Grand Tetons in the evening.........

January 2010 Pics......

2010-02-04T18:12:00.000-08:00

Natchez Getaway......

2009-12-31T10:13:00.000-08:00

I was blessed with the opportunity recently to take Cathy on a little romantic "getaway" to Natchez, MS. We spent the better part of two days and nights in this historic city located on the banks of the Mississippi River that is known for its many majestic plantation homes that date to pre-civil war times. Now, growing up in Louisiana, we have our fair share of such plantation homes. But what sets Natchez apart in my mind is the number of these homes in such close proximity to one another.

So, we spent some time together touring a few of these homes and enjoying the sights of this historic little city by horse drawn carriage and eating some good food along the way and just enjoying each others company. Now, touring old homes is nice in itself, but, when you have a tour guide that can really give you the history of the home and its past owners and explain the circumstances of their existence, it really brings the setting to life and gives wings to your imagination trying to "imagine" what life was like for these people who lived 100 to 150 years ago.....people with eternal souls who are in eternity now...either in Heaven or Hell. I do not mean to sound harsh, but it is real. These people actually lived and now are in an eternity of blessing or punishment. Sobering to say the least, for such awaits us all as well.

Nevertheless, we had a great time and look forward to returning in the future, the Lordwilling. If you have an interest in history (especially Southern history), Natchez is a great place to visit!

Here are some pics of our trip.....

Lobby of the Historic Natchez EOLA Hotel......where we stayed.
Shopping at Darby's

Cathy with General John Quitman.

My beautiful wife in front of "Dunleith" (actually side of Dunleith)
I thought the horse was (maybe) gonna get me...!?!

On the streets..........
Inside the Natchez Coffee Co.
The tour guide MADE us play the piano.........!!!

View from our balcony.

The homes we toured were: Monmouth
Dunleith
Rosalie
Stanton Hall
Check'em Out...!

Christmas

2009-12-15T09:24:00.000-08:00

oh, ye pilgrims

2009-05-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

The Pilgrim Project

I've been working on a music project now on and off since the spring of 2006. My background before becoming a Christian was that of someone totally absorbed in music. Regretfully, most of what I listened to was very ungodly lyrically speaking. I played drums originally, starting around age 13, then picked up the guitar at age 15. I've been first and foremost a guitarist pretty much ever since but also started playing keys around age 20. After I was converted, I left the worldly music I was involved with and pretty much for the first time was faced with the need to write my own music, that is if I was going to be "professional". It was 1984. Contemporary Christian music was still in its infancy so to speak. I remember listening to Michael W. Smith, Degarmo and Key, Petra, Kathy Trocolli, David and the Giants, Wayne Watson, The REZ Band, The Daniel Band, Twila Paris, Morgan Cryar,.....and yes, Amy Grant and Stryper. I was convinced this was what I wanted to do.......: Start a Christian Band and have a gospel influence on my generation. As best I know my heart, I truly desired to please God in my efforts. Surely with my background, this was God's will for me...right? Well, no, it wasn't....!! None of the band efforts ever panned out. But God is too wise to be mistaken and too good to be unkind. He knew what was best for me and being a professional musician was not it. Now I don't know what His providence will unfold for me over the remainder of my life, but this much is true. I know longer pursue the music biz like I used to.........and in fact, it has been liberating. Sadly, the more I know of it, the less interested I am in it. Praise God.......
Now,......

Fastforward some 20 plus years..........and yes, I still write/record original Christian music and its been my desire to have a nicely recorded collection to share with at least family and friends. A source of edification for believers and a challenge to the lost........but to the Glory of God alone and in the name of Christ alone. But why...?? Is there a real need/void out there for such a collection. No. Thankfully there is no shortage today of good solid Christian music. Perhaps more good stuff available now than any other time in the past.....But, it's in my heart to do it. To complete it....... and may God be glorified in it or may I lose all interest in it.......and forsake it out of love for Christ above all.
So,......here I am..........with the pilgrim project. What's in a name...? A long time ago as a young Christian I came to love the name "pilgrim". To me, it's the perfect name for what a Christian is: "A stranger in a foreign land...on his way home."

The Pilgrim Project is basically the Christian Music Recording Enterprise of myself. Sometimes me all by myself. At other times me and my wife. At other times hopefully me and a friend....etc. It's simply the name I've come to use to identify my Christian music recordings. I hope to have volume one complete over the next 24 months......the Lordwilling, and honestly, there may never be a volume two...etc.....if the Lord is pleased to allow me to finish this first one. It's painstakingly slow because I do not want it to supercede my family and church and relationship with Chirst.......whom it is supposed to be about anyway!!
So far, it has been fun and rewarding. Hopefuly, I'll be ready share it or parts of it one day.

Vol. One is entitled "Songs of Grace and Truth".

Hate Crimes....???

2009-05-06T20:06:00.000-07:00

Christian Friend. We must pray...............

"Christian Web News - Alliance Defense Fund attorneys warn that the U.S. Senate should not pass H.R. 1913, the so-called ‘hate crimes’ bill. If it becomes law, ADF attorneys say the bill could severely impede Americans’ constitutional rights to freedom of religion and freedom of expression while creating additional legal protections for those engaged in homosexual behavior that are not available to everyone else. “All violent crimes are hate crimes, and all crime victims deserve equal justice,” said ADF Senior Counsel Kevin Theriot. “So-called ‘hate crime’ laws actually serve only one purpose: The criminalization of citizens based on whatever thoughts, beliefs, and emotions they have that are not considered to be ‘politically correct.’ No one should fall for the idea that this bill does anything to bring about greater justice for Americans.”

ADF attorneys delivered a letter to the House Judiciary Committee on April 22 urging it to reject the bill. The letter noted that the enforcement of “political orthodoxy” in the form of so-called “hate crime” laws is being used to target sincere people of faith, including a small photography company in New Mexico which was fined by the state’s Human Rights Commission for declining to photograph a “commitment ceremony” between two women. New Mexico does not recognize “marriages” between members of the same sex.

“The emotion of hate is an unfortunate reality of the human experience,” the ADF letter stated. “But it is not a crime unless accompanied by a criminal action--and even then it is the action that is within the police power of the government, not the emotion. The reality is that ‘hate’ crime laws are designed to punish people for what they think, feel, or believe. The crime itself that is committed is already punished under various federal and state criminal laws.”

The U.S. House passed its version of the bill by a vote of 249-175. The Senate will now consider whether or not the bill should become law."

Source: H.R. 1913

April 2009 Pics.......

2009-05-04T19:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday Afternoon

2009-04-05T19:49:00.001-07:00

This was Will's first fishing venture.....!

Good and Pleasant

2009-04-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Together standing, hand in hand,
claiming unity....
Each overlooking, vital truth,
in the name of peace....

Unity, apart from the truth,
is not what we need, it's not truth you see.
Unity, based on the truth brings security,
promoting liberty.

How good and pleasant,
How good and pleasant,
How good and pleasant......(repeat)
When brethren dwell together in unity.

We must be praying, calling on the Lord,
for eyes to see....
He has a standard, for His saints,
to know and believe...

Pilgrim Project vol.1
Music: a. town
Lyrics: Psalm 133:1/Carroll/Town

March 2009 Pics......

2009-04-01T20:07:00.001-07:00

.....grass

2009-03-31T06:20:00.000-07:00

I drove up to the house yesterday after work, and my previously uncut grass was now newly mowed.....!? How sweet was that...! Thanks again Cathy....I love you!
She has been really busy working on the webpage for the clinic I work at and is doing an outstanding job. It really looks professional. Lordwilling, I'll post the link when it is complete.....

Friday Night Diary

2009-03-28T11:06:00.000-07:00

...rain, rain.....some wind and some rain. The Lord sent a wave of rain across our area the past few days. Too wet to do my weekly grass cutting. Julie spent the night with a friend (where did my baby girl go??!!).....Cathy had grad school work to do, .........I grilled, we chowed, and me and Will hung out. Earlier in the afternoon he and I found a small green baby turtle on the back patio, about the size of a 50cent piece. He named him "William" (....and then later the next day changed it to "Shasta".....no idea were he got that from!.) We put him in a beach sand bucket with some water and mulch. Later, after supper (he ate nearly 3 hotdogs!!), we watched a "fisher price" little people DVD and put together a puzzle...."Lightning MCQueen".....and did our ususal wrestling etc..... At bedtime, I laid by him for a few minutes....before heading off to do some work on the Pilgrim Project. Been trying to record the piano track to a song called "I Sing" on and off now for a few weeks. I typically work on music stuff at night after the kids are settled down and then usually only if Cathy is busy with school work. I'm hoping this nights work is a keeper.......sometimes when you play something over and over again, after a while you don't know if it's good or not......have to get away from it for awhile and listen another day.......it's kinda funny, I've been working on this project for about 3 years now in my spare time......who knows, may be another 3 to complete, if the Lord is willing for me to.........perhaps I'm too much of a perfectionist........I'm just not easilty satisfied with my work......
.....oh,...... to be content in Chirst alone...! Having Him is truly all that matters........

A whole Year of Blogging

2009-03-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Well, It's been a full year since I stepped into the world of Blogging. If I had to make one statement about what I have observed in the Blogosphere it would be this:

There's a whole lot of verbage going on...........does all this stuff get read???

It sure seems like there are a lot of blogs out there that have little to no commenting readership (mine included much of the time!!!)...
...guess it doesn't really matter.
Blog on........

May Christ's glory be our end.

Come Ye sinners

2009-03-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

Come ye sinners, poor and needy,
weak and wounded, sick and sore.
Jesus ready, stands to save you,
full of pity, joined with power.

He is able, He is able,
He is willing, doubt no more.
(repeat)

Let not conscience make you linger,
nor of fitness fondly dream.
All the fitness He requireth,
is to feel your need of Him.

This He gives you, This He gives you,
Tis the Spirit's rising beam.
(repeat)

Saints and angels, joined in concert,
sing the praises of the Lamb.
While the blissful seats of Heaven,
sweetly echo with His name.

Alleluia, Alleluia,
Sinners here may do the same.
(repeat)

Words: Joseph Hart
Music: ???
Pilgrim Project vol.1

Psalm 133:1

2009-03-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is,
for brothers to dwell together in unity.

when I look to You......

2009-03-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

The lyrics posted below have an interesting story behind them that I wanted to share. I enjoy reading the story behind songs and songwriters so here's my story about this piece.
First off, they aren't my lyrics but they were written to some of my music so I get to claim at least 50% of the song....(like anyone cares!!) But it was the year 1996. I had moved to Augusta, GA for part of my educational experience. I had this new guitar chord progression that I really liked. I remember jogging around our apartment complex thinking about this song....... and at some point I believe I may have written part of a chorus down. I thought it had potential. I made a rough demo of the "song" idea and sent it to a friend of mine to see what he thought. Not long after that I get a call or voicemail from him basically saying he had a different set of lyrics he was working on for the song. Hmm.....I thought, now that was a new one for me..(not that I am a great prolific songwriter)..... but I thought that was cool. To have someone take a piece of my music and take it a whole nuther place (southern for "different place") was a new experience for me. Turns out, his lyric idea for the song was much better then mine and fits the music. I only hope to do it justice one day with a good recording, ......and I am happy to say I have at least started it....................(perhaps more on my recording progress later....)

"When I Look To You"

somedays i'm happy,

somedays i am sad,

there's times I'm good,

there's times I'm bad.

I've climbed to the top

and i've fallen to the ground

been place to place

and all around.

(bridge)

and in my search for who I am I realize,

that choices i've made have not been so wise.

chorus

but when I look to you and see as you want me to see,

Your love opens up my eyes.........

for in You I see the man you want me to be,

Your patience with me I can't deny....

the treasures we chase

tell the world who we are

they say work hard

and you'll go far..

so up in the morning

to race through another day

weeks turn to years

and it all fades away

bridge 2

and in my search for who i am i realize

that coices i've made have not been so wise....

Music: A. Town
Lyrics: R. Carroll
Pilgrim Project vol.1

February 2009 Pics

2009-03-01T15:10:00.001-08:00

God is truly Good to sinners......

Regeneration.....before or after Faith...??

2009-02-24T09:51:00.000-08:00

As Christians, are we born again by believing in Christ ......or........do we believe in Christ because we have been born again.....???

Here is a good short article on the subject by Wayne Grudem courtesy of Monergism.com. I think he hits the nail on the head.

Modern Day Reformers

2009-02-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

Pretty cool.........!!! Click the link below to view.

Hall of Reformers via Monergism.com

box of cassettes......and 5 observations

2009-02-17T21:03:00.001-08:00

Remember cassette tapes........?? I remember when I used to see them as things of beauty........you know, an affordable medium for me to put my music on etc......sweet....!! Some of you know that recording music has been a part of me ....well.... for a good long while. I remember as a kid being totally facinated by a cheap tape recorder. How cool was that....! My dad had an old cassette tape recorder that actually had a small hand held microphone with it.......man, I used to take that thing through the yard just looking for different things to record.....so from early on I got the recording bug. Confession time now: My first "real" music recording that I can remember other than my dad recording me and my brother singing Pinocchio etc....was when I recorded myself singing "disco duck". That's right. Disco duck! I had the 45rpm record and the flip side was just the instrumental version of the song. I set up my dad's tape player and mic, turned on my record player and I was recording. Crazy?....yeah..it was crazy, but fun. Now I do pretty much all my recording via computer, but I put myself through an experience recently that had me remembering when that was not the case.
I've got a box of cassette tapes in the top of my office closet, ..........mostly old music demo stuff from the past. Recently, I went through the box and picked out some that had music on them that I wanted to one day put on my computer so I could burn Cd's of some of this "classic" stuff.......that most people wouldn't care to hear but myself.
Well, I did just that this past weekend with a set of songs I recorded with a friend back in 1994 and here are my "observations":

1. Cassettes are noisy......noisy...nooooisy!! All that analog hiss....wow! How did we ever put up with it.

2. Cassettes seem very ineficient to me now. I mean, all that fastforwarding and rewinding......especially when you are used to just "hitting" the forward or backward button on a CD player etc...to change tunes.

3. Boy was the quality of my old recordings lacking. I used to think some of my old recordings were pretty good.........perhaps I was self-deceived. The playing was ok,.....the singing was great (becaues it wasn't me). But the quality of it all is not very good by my new digital standards.

4. It's funny how some songs I used to really, really think highly of that don't really impress me anymore. Songs I spent probably hours working on that have lost most of their appeal.

5.It's funny how some songs I used to really, really think highly of.................that I still think highly of and worth recording.

If you actually took the time to finish reading this post, then you are probably in your mid 40's and found it somewhat amusing that someone actually sat down and took the time to write about cassette tapes.
At least now I can burn a CD for my amusement!!! (though I really need to do it again....my output mix volume on the computer was lower than I realized..!)
But I think my wife will listen to it with me.

Jesus The Lord

2009-02-11T06:52:00.000-08:00

Jesus the Lord my savior is,
My Shepherd and my guide,
My life, my strength, my joy, my bliss,
And I His grace record.
Yes, Jesus the Lord my savior is........

What'ere I need in Jesus dwells,
And there it dwells for me.
Tis Christ my earthen vessel fills,
With treasures rich and free.

Mercy and truth and righteousness,
And peace most richly meet,
In Jesus Christ the King of Grace,
In Whom I stand complete.

As through the wilderness I roam,
His mercies I'll proclaim,
And when I safely reach my home,
I'll still adore His name.......

"Worthy the Lamb" shall be my song,
For He for me was slain,
And with me all the heavenly throng
Shall join and say "Amen"...........amen.

the pilgrim project vol.1
Gadsby's Hymnal

You're Going Through.......

2009-02-06T14:15:00.000-08:00

things are hard I know,
as troubled times can blind our way.
the pain that you hide only grows,
and relief is a dream that ends with the day

life is a gift don't you know,
that saying goodbye is a bit too extreme.
there is someone who can show,
that the hope you look for is more than a dream.

He knows everything you're going through,
the disappointments and the pain.
Only Christ can bring true peace to you,
The life you know His love can change.......

"a child with a child" is what they say,
young and afraid, feeling alone.
can't seem to find the right way,
lost in your shame, left on your own.

He knows everything you're going through,
only He has known your shame.
Only Christ can bring true peace to you,
His love for sinners has not changed.

pilgrim project vol. 1
Carroll/Town 1996

Happy Birthday Cathy!!!

2009-02-06T05:08:00.000-08:00

I am blessed with such an amazing wife.....truly I got best end of the deal when the Lord sent her to me nearly 21 years ago!!

"mid July, at just the right time...
the Lord sent a blessing to me.
a graceful doe, a loving hind,
a picture of true purity..."

Happy Birthday to the love of my life...!

The Year so far.....January 2009 pics

2009-02-01T18:23:00.000-08:00

Higher......Deeper.......(comfort)

2009-01-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

Higher than the tallest mountain,
Deeper than the ocean floor..........
More intense than faithful's fountain,
Jesus' love excels still more..........

Never ending, never changing,
Fixed upon its chosen bride........
Never has there been such love,
As Jesus Christ's, the Crucified..

High above in Heaven's portals,
Long before our race began.......
Love with purpose, full of mercy,
Etched our names upon His hand..

Not a one on whom this love is set,
(For whom grace spared no cost)....
Not a one for whom Christ shed His blood,
Shall ever end up lost.............

the pilgrim project vol.??(2009)
John ch. 6:37-40

Malediction

2009-01-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

The judges sat outside the law
And in their pride no evil saw
In setting teeth to Satan’s jaw
And feeding him our children

A curse a curse the Law it cries
A curse a curse on mankind’s pride
A curse on him who would deny
God’s image in mankind

When viewed in terms of cost and ease
An unborn child is a disease
A holocaust seen fit to please
Our own convenience.

Torn from out their mother’s womb
Denied the sky, denied the tomb
Conceived in lust to their own ruin

A sacrifice to pleasure

A curse, a curse their blood cries out
A curse, a curse the heavens shout
A curse, a curse on him who dares to flout
God’s image in mankind.

The doctors with their blood red hands
Who love their money more than man
With greed their god they lay their plans
The butchers of mankind.

O rid us of this evil, Lord
And turn our hearts by cross or sword
Our nation cannot long afford
To live beneath Your anger

A curse, a curse upon their heads
O save them Lord or slay them dead
And fill our country with your Dread
And turn away Your anger.

A curse, a curse upon their heads
Oh save them Lord or slay them dead
And fill our nation with your dread
And turn away Your anger

Lord, turn away Your anger

(Kyrie eleison; Christe eleison)
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy

by: Kemper Crabb

(found on Pilgrim's Planet Blog)

Meditate on This....!!!

2009-01-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

"The doctrine of justification itself, as preached by an Arminian, is nothing but the doctrine of salvation by works..." -C.H. Spurgeon

I came across this quote on Steve Camp's blog.

My Apologies.........

2009-01-06T07:08:00.000-08:00

I realize I never came through with posting more "Christmas Hymn" texts.....Please accept my apology and forgive me for not coming through with my posted intention. The Lordwilling, perhaps next year......

adam

The Narrow Gate

2008-12-22T09:45:00.000-08:00

Matthew 7:13: "Enter in by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter in by it. "

I have been thinking about this verse lately because its truth is something I've been wanting to include in a song I have been working on recording. But, in general the subject of self-denial has been something I've been wrestling with for some time and after reading a post by my friend Rod Carroll on a book he recently read by John McArthur I was challenged even further to think about this issue. Here are some of my conclusions:

1. We do not earn our salvation by self-denial......it is by self-denial that we show we are saved.

2. If we believe in Christ alone for salvation and fogiveness of sins, it has to be because we have a broken and contrite heart over our sins.

3. If this faith resides in us, then we will love Christ.

4. If we love Him, we will want to obey Him and His word and commands will be the standard that guides our love driven obedience.

5. Such love will go against the grain of our yet fallen (but regenerated) natures , and so to obey will often involve a stuggle with the flesh (remaining sin in us).

Thus the gate is narrow that leads to life. Only those with this faith in Christ love Him enough to want to obey Him when it goes against our nautural fallen desires and ambitions or in difficult circumstances. The broad way has plenty of room and space enough to accomodate our amalgamations of selfishness and notions of faith in Chist. It is magnanimous enough to allow us to continue in known sin and feel good about our relationship with God. Yet, ........in what is the best explantion of self-denial, our Lord Jesus had this to say after speaking on taking up our cross and denying ourself:

Luke 9:24: "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever will lose his life for my sake, the same will save it."

Putting to death sin and all self-rule. That's it...SELF-RULE and all its expressions of selfishness and sin must die to enter the narrow gate and stay on that narrow path. And Jesus said few are those who find this way to life. Why?? It goes against our fallen nature. It is all of grace that any of us have entered this narrow gate. This way of salvation is open to all who want it. But herein lies the problem. We by nature to not want it on Christ's terms.

Yet,........Fly to Jesus......and be at peace with God.
He still receives sinners.

Snow Day in the Deep South...5.5 inches

2008-12-11T19:43:00.000-08:00

I got out of bed this am and walked into the living room.....glanced outside and thought to myself..."man, we sure got a good frost last night"....and then realized it was snow and was still snowing. Woke everybody else up to check out and play in the snow.....just doesn't happen that often around here. The weather man predicted a possible snowy/wintery mix of moisture up north of us but only a low temp. of about 36 degrees. Well, guess who was wrong! The Lord sends even His snow on those he chooses!
Here are a few pics........!!!

Julie and Lauren....

Little Will......

Me and my girlfriend..!!!

Christmas Hymns

2008-12-09T11:58:00.000-08:00

If you are like myself you most likely grew up singing the same 8 to 10 "Christmas Hymns" each year over and over again, .....of which many do have excellent texts. However, what I was not aware of is that there are a great number of Christmas Hymns out there that for one reason or another have not made it into the average hymnbook over the past 50 to 100 years. In fact, there are tons of good hymns out there that just aren't being used ........with rich biblical texts full of sound theology. Hymns from which you can really be thought good doctrine. Texts that take you on a good journey and point out the glory of God.
With this in view I would like to take a few posts to share some of my favorite "new" Christmas Hymns. However, this first selection is not one of those but one of the more familiar standards that happens to be my all time favorite Christmas Hymn. Try and read it without singing it like a poem you have never read. The theology is amazing. Enjoy!

Hark! the herald angels sing,"Glory to the new born King,
peace on earth, and mercy mild,God and sinners reconciled!
"Joyful, all ye nations rise,join the triumph of the skies;
with th' angelic host proclaim,"Christ is born in Bethlehem!
"Hark! the herald angels sing,"Glory to the new born King!

"Christ, by highest heaven adored;Christ, the everlasting Lord;
late in time behold him come,offspring of a virgin's womb.
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;hail th' incarnate Deity,
pleased as man with man to dwell,Jesus, our Emmanuel.
Hark! the herald angels sing,"Glory to the new born King!

"Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace!Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,risen with healing in his wings.
Mild he lays his glory by,born that man no more may die,
born to raise the sons of earth,born to give us second birth.
Hark! the herald angels sing,"Glory to the new born King!"

Charles Wesley

College Regular Season is in the books......

2008-12-01T14:11:00.000-08:00

Here's is how the SEC West played out in conference play: (www.secsports.com)
Alabama 8-0 impressive..
Ole Miss 5-3 surprising....
LSU 3-5 disappointing...
Arkansas 2-6 hmmmmm.....
Auburn 2-6 are you kidding me....??
Miss. St. 2-6 sadly, not really surprising....

I believe the SEC media had picked Auburn 1st followd by LSU. I guess that's why predictions don't mean a thing.....ya gotta tee it up play the games.
Once again the SEC finished up strong in the National standings and if Alabama or Florida wind up winning the National Championship it will make 4 out of the last 6 years a SEC team has won it all and 3 in a row.......LSU03, FLA06, LSU07, ALA/FLA08????? We'll have to wait and see.
Hey, but does anybody really care.......? I guess some of us in the SEC do.......but in life's big scheme, it is just a game that big boys play!! Let's not lose any sleep over it.
Any nascar fans out there??

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T12:00:00.000-08:00

The apostle Paul over and over speaks about being thankful and how Christians are to function with an attitude of thanksgiving everyday. As I think about that, I'm struck by the thought of how this is just the opposite attitude our fallen nature takes. Really, it takes little to no effort to complain about most anything. Long shopping lines. Bills. Stress at work. Stess at home. The evergrowing high cost of living. A dissapointing this or that.........you name it.
It does on the other hand take effort to be thankful. Our selfish nature opposes it. We have to make ourself count our blessings or they will often go uncounted. I include myself. No wonder Paul makes it a top priority to often remind Christians to be thankful. Why??? Because we don't deserve any of the good things and times we experience. If we consider honestly in the light of God's word what we deserve............we would cover our mouth's .........and if we would dare speak it would be to say "Thank You Lord, Thy will be done"..............But you know the good things we enjoy. The things we easily take for granted. Health. Food. Clothing. A roof over our family's head, besides all the extra blessings like vacations, Christmas gifts and the like that most of us are blessed to enjoy. Friday outings. Friends over for dinner. Church family get togethers. Easter candy. A steak dinner. McDonald's. TV. Movies. CD's. ......on and on......(cell phones).............
but we actually deserver none of this. We deserve to live in misery. We deserve to eternally exist in torture. We deserve God's wrath justly expressed and poured out on us in Hell. Forever. And Forever.
But...........God has sent Jesus. If we have Him we have everything. Yes, everything. Eternal forgiveness of sins. What is a long line at Walmart compared to that?? What is a loss in a football game in light of that? What is a tought day at work in light of that? Mere light afflictions not worthy to be compared with what is coming to us...........Eternal Bliss with our Savior!
Let's be thankful and commit ourselves to encouraging one another to be thankful. We have so much when many have nothing. Many near and far do live in extreme poverty. May they one day find everything in Christ if they have not already. May we commit ourselves to that task and joyfully take our role in the gospel enterprise........whatever God has for us........let us do it with all our might so others may see Christ in us. And be thankful.
"In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus" 1Thes. 5:18

Happy Thanksgiving!

FBCC WebSite

2008-11-24T13:07:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce that First Baptist Chruch, Clinton Louisiana has a new website thanks to Carrie King. Carrie has done an excellent job of creating a fresh, user friendly site for our church that allows anyone access to online sermons and podcasting. She would tell you it is a work in progress, but she has uploaded a good bit of Bro. Fred's most recent sermons from his series in Ephesians as well as the initial lesson from Bro. Mitch for the adult sunday school class.
Bro. Fred's messages from Eph. 6 on the "the armor of God" have been the best presentations of such that I have ever been exposed to. Especially his message on 11/09/08 on "the Breastplate of Righteousness". It is a message that is packed full of encouragement for the believer in our Lord Jesus Christ. I can't recommend it highly enough.
Also, Bro. Mitch has started a new study for the adult sunday school class. He is going through a book entitled "Spiritual Depression-its causes and cure" by Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. I personally plan on utilizing the online listening feature for this study since I am now teaching sunday school myself.
If you want to check out First Baptist Clinton just go to:http://www.fbcclintonla.com

Full and Free

2008-11-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

Twas fixed in God's eternal mind,
when His dear sons should mercy find.
From everlasting He decreed,
when every good should be conveyed.

c.
In every mercy......full and free,
A sovereign God I wish to see........
To see how grace, free grace has reigned,
In every mercy He ordained.

Also the means were fixed upon,
through which His sovereign love should run.
And every favor richly given,
flows from the high decree of heaven.

pilgrim project vol. 1

Fly

2008-11-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

there is a way that seems right to a man,
while he seeks to follow his heart;
feelings deceive while he makes his plans,
and death will be the last part.

unless the light of the gospel breaks in,
and gives us eyes to see,
what the true nature of sin is within,
we'll perish in our unbelief.

c1
we must fly......unto Jesus,
and forsake our own way,
He's the Door into heaven,
oh come to Him and be saved.

People are searching for something that’s real,
Longing for meaning in life.
Groping they stumble alone in the dark,
Unwilling to come to the Light.

c2
want you fly........unto Jesus?
from your sins be made whole,
if your load has you weary,
oh come, find rest for your soul.

want you fly.......unto Jesus?
and find rest in His arms,
if your heart now is broken,
oh come, embraced by his charms.

br.
rebel sinners by nature,
unworthy to be received,
yet the grace of God in salvation,
is given to such as believe.

c3
want you fly......unto Jesus,
and forsake your own way.
He's the Door into heaven,
Oh come to Him and be saved.

want you fly......unto Jesus,
be at peace with your God;
through His blood find forgiveness,
oh come, His grace is for all......
oh come, His grace is for all......
oh come, His grace is for all......

pilgrim project vol1 (town/williams)

Our God Reigns

2008-11-05T07:29:00.000-08:00

The king's heart is in Yahweh's hand like the watercourses. He turns it wherever he desires. Proverbs 21:1

McCain or Obama......the Lord will direct, raise up and bring down according to His Sovereign decree. What must we do? Pray for whoever is in the position of authority and submit within biblical bounds. They are not there by accident, even though their moral character may be lacking. Remember the Apostle Paul who instructed Christians to be subject to the governing authorities. If I am not mistaken, a wicked man by the name of Nero may have been in authority during at least part of the New Testament era.

Vote

2008-11-04T08:06:00.000-08:00

.....it's finally election day. I think almost every commercial on TV last night was a campaign add.........whew!!......I'm glad that's over. I did catch some of SNL's Presidential Bash. Some of that stuff is hilarious......though I have to watch it guardedly and with a fast remote because they can get "off color".....
How about Starbucks and free coffee...??
One has to wonder if they will actually sell anything today...........I had to make do with my home made Wal Mart coffee with french vanilla creamer....YUM...!.....since there are no Starbucks on my way to work. I think State workers are off today......I know the East Baton Rouge Parish Schools are out. Must be nice.

Also, it seems I need to be reminded each time about how a presidential election works with the "Electorial College" vs. popular vote. Cathy and I had a good discussion about it last night. She made the point that in today's world it seems the Electorial College is somewhat outdated especially since now most places (I assume?) use voting machines that are electronic/computerized that give you a tally practically instantly thus giving the populace an "instant voice" on the matter. I know the E. C. is based on population which is good, but wouldn't it be good-er (southern english) to base it all on simply the vote of the individuals of the nation?
Just my take.
Do they still use "chad" machines in Florida?

Anyways.....

If you have not yet, please go Vote for McCain.

The Fall....so far......

2008-11-02T16:42:00.000-08:00

A few pics from the early fall...............

the Fires of Reformation...10/31/1517

2008-10-31T05:28:00.000-07:00

back in the 16th century,
with darkness all around;
religion was so empty,
it was tradition bound.

for those in the high places,
who to the truth were blind;
their lies were propagated,
keeping the truth confined.

they taught to get forgiveness,
your money it would cost;
they gave no gospel witness,
no preaching of the Cross.

without such proclamation,
God's way could not be known;
the gospel of salvation,
by grace through faith alone..........

BUT,
amid such awful darkness,
at God's appointed time;
He made Himself a witness
to bring His Truth to light.

God raised up Martin Luther,
a monk in need of grace;
and taught him through the scripture,
the just shall live by faith.

with God his mighty fortress,
Luther began to teach;
that faith alone in Jesus,
was all a man did need.

This caused a great upheaval,
with many of his day;
the pope's men thought him evil,
while multitudes were saved.

Justification by faith in Christ, the battle cry, of eternal life...........

IT......WAS......TIME......!
For the Fires of Reformation to burn bright.
CHANGING TIMES......!
Now the Gospel of Grace would once again shine.

SHINE......!!!

Happy Reformation Day..!!!

pilgrim project vol. 2

It's Fall in south Louisiana

2008-10-27T16:58:00.000-07:00

Fall has officially arrived. The temps this past weekend were great and on Friday evening,
I couln't pass up the opportunity to light the chiminea for the first time this season. Was awesome sitting there with Cathy as Will rode around the patio on his trike. I really love the fall....it's the time of year me and Cathy fell in love.

Here's to the cool temps!!! Even got down to the mid thirties last night which is a little unusual for these parts in October.
Thank you Lord, for all these "little" blessings that make life here enjoyable. May I find my true happiness in You........

Oh Well.............

2008-10-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

LSU vs. Georgia post game thoughts.

...both defenses gave up 38 points. ...sounds crazy.
One QB threw 2 picks returned for TD's which turned out to be the difference in the game.

End Result= Tigers Lose...........52 - 38.
Geaux Tigers.
Geaux Dogs.....get Florida!

Grace

2008-10-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

Grace is-- God being kind to those who deserve His wrath and anger.
Grace is-- God being merciful to those who deserve punishment.
Grace is--God's goodness/unmerited favor shown to those who do not deserve it.

All of us by nature do not believe this.

Listen to converstations between unbelievers. In the grocery store, at funerals or wherever. Often when death is faced or at other times you hear folks make statements like this, especially down here in the south....."he was a good ol boy, I never heard him say anything bad about anyone" or
"I know I'm not perfect but I've never killed anyone" or
"I know I don't go to church but I'm not as bad as ol so and so and they were raised in the church"or
"I know he's done such and such but he really was a good person at heart".

What is the problem with this type of language?
Well, it's the same basic problem the Jews had when faced with Jesus as the Messiah. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. It's the language of self-righteousness. Not seeing their utter spiritual bankrupcy before God but depending on the fact that they were "Abrahams offspring". Their self-righteousness was geneological--that is, it was tied to who their ancestors were and the practice of their religion. The same is done over and over today. It is the natural inclination of fallen man. To base our eternal relationship with God on something other than Christ.......like, "my grandfather was a preacher", or "I'm not that bad, ....surely the good I've done out weighs the bad".........
All Self-Righteousness.............
The problem is our ancestry is not the standard.
Whether or not we are as bad as our neighbor is not the standard.
The standard is God. His Law (10 commandments) which reveal His perfect moral character.
In the light of that standard we all fall miserably, yes inifinitely short.

Fly to Jesus.
He completely fulfilled the righteousness of the Law on behalf of sinners and satisfied God's just anger and wrath for all the times we broke that Law.
Fly to Jesus.
You will be accepted by God ONLY in HIm.
Fly to Jesus................

LSU vs. South Carolina

2008-10-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

...not much to say this week.
If the LSU defense continues not to blitz and not apply pressure to the USC QB, they could be in trouble again. I beleive we have the personel, just questioning the scheme I see executed on the field. But, Rejoice in the Lord...!!! He is always victorious!!!

Geaux Tigers

i know

2008-10-14T05:54:00.000-07:00

the dreadful plight of fallen man,
the depth of his disease.
there is no shade of good in him,
for which he now may plead.

within his heart there is no light,
to point him in the way.
he cannot see his need of Christ,
without a work of grace.

i know.....i don't deserve to love of God,
i know.....i don't deserve His peace,
i know.....the just shall live by faith alone,
i know.....in Christ i am complete.

the message of the gospel is,
that God can now be just,
and justify the vilest men,
by faith in Jesus blood,

to demonstrate so great a love,
He sent His son to earth,
to live a perfect life for us,
that He might bear our curse.

i know.......

in Heaven their would be no place,
no hope beyond this life,
for anyone of adam's race,
if Jesus had not died.

i know.......

LSU vs. Florida

2008-10-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Florida week. I'll just give my opinion on the stregnths and weaknesses of each team.
LSU strengths: Offensive Line
Running Backs
Defensive Line
Field Goal Kicker

LSU weaknesses/question marks?: Quarterback--talented but young with limited experience.
Defensive Backs--giving up some big plays.

Florida strengths: Quarterback: talented and experienced
Linebackers

Florida weaknesses: Offensive Line
Running Backs

The Keys to an LSU win in my opinion is being able to take over the game by being able to run the ball at will and putting pressure on Tim Tebow. On paper the Tigers look like they should be able to do both but, the game is not played on paper as we all know. As much as I love a good passing game the ability to run the ball can be crucial in a game like this.

Because of the Tigers strength up front on offense and defense, I think they have a real good shot at coming out of the Swamp with a win on Saturday night.....the Lordwilling!!!

Geaux Tigers

(we got our tail beat 51-21!!)

Cool Song

2008-10-01T06:25:00.000-07:00

I heard this music on a tv commercial and it almost immediately caught my attention which rarely happens. I typically need to hear a new song a couple of times before I begin to like it (or not). But, this caught me. When I finally found out who the artist was I also found out that he is a professing Christian. Here's a link to an interview from about a year ago.
http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/interviews/2007/jonmclaughlin-mini-1007.html

If any of you know anything else about this guy or have an opinion, I'd love to hear it.

Good Bye Summer (hello fall)

2008-09-30T08:42:00.001-07:00

Mississippi State vs. LSU

2008-09-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

Last week LSU pulled off another dramatic, nearly down to the wire victory against Auburn 26-21. As I originally thought, the team that got the best quarterback play would win and I think that was the case at least for most of the second half. Auburn has a good team and at this point I hope they win the rest of their games.

This week LSU faces Mississippi State in Baton Rouge. I'm not sure what it is, but State is a team that has really struggled against LSU. 10 years ago when the Tigers were struggling and had a losing season, they still beat State pretty soundly. Just seems LSU has their number. Well, of course that could change but I really do not expect that to change this week. LSU's Offensive and Defensive Lines are really good and I mean that in the most objective way possible. Read the Auburn players quotes from last week. Anyway, I would be suprised for State to really give LSU a scare this year...........but anything's possible. Ask Alabama and Auburn about last years shocking outcomes.........

Geaux Tigers

The Eternality of Grace

2008-09-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

Predestination. What a "bad" word this used to be in our congregation. Predestination. But it's a Bible word, so, it cannot be a bad word. How many have run from this truth not even really knowing what it is about, but assuming certain wrong ideas propagated by uniformed but well intended folk. Predestination is an act of God out of love for His people. Think about it, the Bible never says God predestined people to Hell,.....but does teach He Predestined people to be His sons and thus to Heaven. It is a glorious truth intended to encourgage believers. (You mean God chose me?? God loves me?? And can it be???)
Here is the double edged truth of the Bible: "If I go to Heaven, it is all of Grace,..according to the kind intention of His will. But, if I go to Hell, it is all my fault for refusing to come to Chirst". Such is our state by nature, undeserving, condemned and unwilling to come to Jesus. What amazing Grace that God would ordain the salvation of any man, much less a number which no man can number!!!

Ephesians ch.1........
4just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him In love
5He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will,
6to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.

Believer, be enouraged.

In every mercy full and free........
A sovereign God I wish to see.........
To see how grace, free grace has reigned........
In every mercy He ordained..........

all of Grace

2008-09-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

as i look deep within,
face to face with my sin,
i'm ashamed.......of who i am.

i see anger and pride,
selfishness in disguise,
who is this?........i'm a sinful man.

(c)
i am just a man -- a sinner,
by grace alone i stand,
'cause You gave up Your life, the supreme sacrfice.

as i look in Your book,
see the path that You took,
all in love.......just to set me free.

i put my eyes on the cross,
count my gain to be loss,
see the love......spent to ransome me.

(c)
(b)
it's all of grace..........that i can call You "Lord",
it's sovereign grace........that mercy found my door.

grace..........all of grace,
grace..........all of grace.

pilgrim project vol? 2008

LSU vs. Auburn

2008-09-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that week. LSU at Auburn.
LSU leads the all time series at 22-19-1.
Last year LSU won on essentially the last play of game.
In 2006 LSU lost by not being able to score on the last play of the game.
Both teams have a weakness at the QB position = trying to replace veterans who graduated.
Both teams have solid defenses.
MY TAKE: The team that gets the best performance from the QB position will likely win.

Should be a good one to watch.
Geaux Tigers

Hope in death.........

2008-09-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grow dim; its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see;
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.

Hold now Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies;
Heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee;
In life, in death O Lord abide with me.

the believer's future........

2008-09-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

"And, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace. "

Hurricane Ike

2008-09-12T06:13:00.000-07:00

We are beginning to feel the outer bands of "Ike"........rain and wind. Expected to have peak winds in the Baton Rouge area around 3-4pm today of up to 40 to 50mph gusts.
I am in Clinton as I type and we are having stong rain and some good wind now at 8:35am.
We need to pray for our neighbors to the west....Galveston and Houston...........I heard a report on the way to work that they expect Galveston Island to be under water at some point and Houston has a history of flooding and is very close to Galveston.....

Let us pray.........

Geaux Tigers

2008-09-11T07:55:00.000-07:00

Well, it is that time of year again. The dreaded football season. I say dreaded because it's easy to allow it to "consume" too much of my time, and that being the case I don't like the temptaion. Don't get me wrong, I love it.....but as I hopefully mature as a christian, I am seeking to learn how to be a good steward of my time, even when it comes to football. I mean, if I were to watch the better part of all the SEC games played on the tube on a given Saturday, my day is spent!! Which would be to the neglect of my loving wife, daughter and son.........who have no real interest in football.............unless it's a "real important" LSU game (is there one not important??)..........!!
.........anyway, you get my point. All things in moderation, which for me is in general, only watching (and hopfully only if it doesn't interfere with or keep me from something else I NEED to do) my LSU Tigers, with few exceptions.............

That being the case, I will try to "Break Down" at least the SEC games on LSU's schedule the weak of and maybe make a post game comment or two. As it stands now, it appears that Alabama, Auburn and LSU are the teams to watch in the SEC West and Georgia, Florida and Vanderbilt (yes Vanderbilt..!!) in the East. Should be an interesting year. LSU had to postpone their game with Tory U. last week due to Gustav, so they are at a disadvantage now in getting their new QB's some playing time before their SEC opener with Auburn next weekend in Auburn,.......which is never an easy game. Since 2000, LSU and Auburn are tied with 4wins and 4losses each in this series.........the home team winning each one,....so.........we will see....!!!

This week, LSU entertains North Texas U. Should not be much of a game, but never take your opponent for granted. God can humble any man at anytime.!!

Anyway, if you love college football, I hop you enjoy the season.........but try to keep first things first........................I mean, does it really matter in the grand scheme of things who won what game and by how much from the 1974 college season? If the Lord tarries His coming, the same can be said of this year.

GEAUX TIGERS

Heaven is Better.........

2008-09-10T07:44:00.000-07:00

"heaven on earth",
a phrase we employ,
describing life here,
at the height of its joy.
the best of our good times,
those above par,
as good as it gets,
they're still less by far..........

love among family,
grace among friends,
the welcome of home,
all appear without end,
the sweetest comunion,
shared here below,
pales when compared,
to what in Heaven we'll know............

C.
Heaven is Better, than the grandest of dream,
Heaven is Better, than the wealth of a king,
Heaven is Better, for all that it's worth,
Heaven is Better, than the best of the earth.

mountains and valleys,
rivers and seas,
oceans of blue,
so vast and so free,
the beauty of this earth,
while marred by decay,
can't be compared,
to that new one He'll make

C
Heaven is Better, than a mountain top scene,
Heaven is Better, than the glory of spring,
Heaven is Better, for all that its worth,
Heaven is Better, than the best of the earth.

B
lay up your treasures above,
where moth and rust cannot invade,
unlike the treasures of earth,
in Heaven they are safe

God sent His Son,
from Heaven to earth,
becoming man,
through a most humble birth,
denying Himself, loving His own,
dying for sinners,
to make Heaven their home..........

C.
Heaven is Better, than the grandest of dreams,
Heaven is Better, because of Jesus our King,
Heaven is Better, for all that its worth,
Heaven is Better, than the best of the earth..........

pilgrim project vol. 1

True Gospel Conversions

2008-09-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

I came accross this quote from Charles Spurgeon on Steve Camp's Blog.....
Read this and imagine the response the average chruch attendee might have........

"If the professed convert distinctly and deliberately declares that he knows the Lord's will but does not mean to attend to it, you are not to pamper his presumption, but it is your duty to assure him that he is not saved. Do not suppose that the Gospel is magnified or God glorified by going to the worldlings and telling them that they may be saved at this moment by simply accepting Christ as their Savior, while they are wedded to their idols, and their hearts are still in love with sin. If I do so I tell them a lie, pervert the Gospel , insult Christ, and turn the grace of God into lasciviousness." -C.H. SPURGEON

How far we have come.......
True faith in Christ alone saves..... NO WORKS ......and such faith is always accompanied by repentance.
The gospel has not changed...!!!

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved.

Surviving Gustav

2008-09-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

"For He spoke and raised up a stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea." Psalm 107:25
"He caused the storm to be still, so that the waves of the sea were hushed." Psalm 107:29

All thanks and praise to God for hearing my prayers for my family and home. We suffered no damage to our home inspite of sustained winds of 60mph and a gust up to 91mph measured at the Baton Rouge airport about 8 miles from us. I have never seen stronger winds than this (the effects). It is pure grace we have no damage, while neighbors do.
He does all things well and acording to His purpose.......even in creating and directing storms and their effects. What an awesome God we serve who sent His Son to rescue us from the wrath to come. Gustav is nothing in comparison. May the Lord show me how I might serve Him in the aftermath.

If Jesus Once..........

2008-08-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

There is now no comdemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus Rom Ch. 8:1

As I was reading in C.J. Mahaney's book "The Cross Centered Life" in preparation for teaching our church youth group in a couple days, I came across the above verse. Mahaney's context/point was that Christ has taken all of the believer's condemnation before God. So when we daily sin, we should not grovel in guilt, but confess, repent and believe the gospel. I may not always "feel" forgiven, but if I am in Christ, I am forgiven.....past, present and future.

"If Jesus once upon me shined, then Jesus is Forever mine" (from Gadsby's Hymnal 339)

Contentment......a Skill?

2008-08-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

I recently finished reading a book by puritan writer Jeremiah Burroughs on Christian Contentment/Happiness. Excellent....I highly recommend it.
Here's some some basic ideas I came away with, either directly from the book or after mediating on some aspect of it:

1. Trust God for your circumstances. Whether rich or poor, own many possessions or little, God is the one who has given us everything we have and has withheld everything we don't have. Knowing this, the Christian can and should be happy whatever his lot because he can know that God has decided his lot for him for his good and God's glory.

2. Remember Jesus Christ Crucified for you personally everyday. If we believe the gospel, then we should have no problem trusting God for our circumstances (knowing that He is good and always does what is right and best).......because God demonstrated His goodness and love at the cross of Jesus. Remember this everyday.

3. Our Eternity is Secure in Christ. If we really believe this, does it really matter whether or not we get to do everything we want in this life....?? No, it doesn't. God has met all our needs in Christ.....ETERNAL HAPPINESS...........so if He chooses to give us much or a little down here really should not affect our state of contentment in this life. What is 70 to 80 years compared to a never ending state of bliss.

4. God gives us what He wants us to have. He witholds what he does not want us to have. (see#1) So, there is no need to fret about getting or not getting stuff, jobs....etc. He has it all under His control. This certainly does not mean we should not pray, work, studly....etc. to excell and advance in our vocation and or provide for our family. Just not to worry....."be anxious for nothing". Trust God. Do what you know you should do and trust God for the outcome. He ordained our days before our birth.

If you are a Christian, God has loved you forever. You can therefore be happy/content in this life. Let us encourage one another daily, as long at it is called "today". Food?, Clothing? be happy. God has and will continue to take care of you. He always does what is best and good.
I personally need this reminder every day..............................

Life is Life

2008-08-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

the first breath of a newborn,
the last of an aged soul,
they share this in common,
the Lord is the giver of both.

from birth and the cradle,
to life at a hectic pace,
the image of adam,
has made its mark on our fallen race.

there's nothing new under the sun,
what was before, now is done.
it's all striving after the wind,
and when its all gone, what will be then?

Life is Life,
so much to lose or gain.
Life is Life,
everyone's worth the same.
Life is Life,
all are conceived in sin.
Life is Life,
evryone's born condemned.
Life is Life,
no one may enter Heaven,
Life is Life,
unless through Christ forgiven.

(pilgrim project vo. 1)

Two Men

2008-08-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

1st

Our Lord Jesus Spoke of 2 men,
One thought himself free from most sin,
And so when he stood up to pray,
His pride only got in the way.
It kept God away...........

He....knew not his desperate need.
Self-righteousness had him deceived.
Religion is what he did trust.
He thought his good deeds made him just.

2nd

The next man of whom Jesus spoke,
Was under a burdensome load.
His heart was now breaking with grief,
His sin would afford him no peace.
He longed for God's peace.......

He......knew very well his great need,
Se he cried to God for mercy.
And beating his breast as he cried,
This man went hom justified...........

(pilgrim project vol. 11)

Saturday at the Mall

2008-08-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

Julie and Will are so different. Both great blessings from the Lord....!!!

Will loves the carousel at the mall.....!!

While walking through the "TigerMania" store Will found this soft LSU football that he immediately latched on to. Of course his dad had to get it for him.

My Thoughts on MySpace........

2008-08-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

Here are my thoughts on MySpace:

My own limited experience with MySpace has shown me what a horrible tool for wickedness this can be. While the entity "MySpace" is not sinful in itself, what many choose to put on it is and herein lies the problem. MySpace is simply a medium whereby individuals or groups have the freedom to express themselves.......their thoughts, music, pictures etc...

While such is not in and of itself bad, when it comes from bad people, the results are often very bad!! As a race we are fallen and corrupt in our nature. Jesus himself taught this...."men loved the darkness rather than the light" John 3:19. See also Ephesians ch.2:1-3.

Unconverted people by nature love sin and live in it and when given the opportunity to express themselves, it is often in a sinful way. Take away any restraints and sinners will naturally reveal their sinful loves and desires. Enter MySpace. We now have a medium for fallen people to express themselves without meaningful restraint..........teens and adults alike.

While such a medium can equally be a tool for righteousness, the problem is that I'm afraid unrighteous users greatly outnumber the righteous.
This brings me to the question all Christian parents must answer.
Should we allow our pre-teen and teenage children to use/visit myspace..??

Right now, MySpace is off limits for our pre-teen daughter and she seems to understand and respect our feelings,...wanting to protect her.....while she has schoolmates that are allowed to use it.

Any thoughts or opinions?? Am I overreacting??

Great Hymn Writers.......

2008-08-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

Biographical information facinates me as well as other less significant "details" in the lives and activities of those I have some interest in. For example, if I have a new CD (remember those?), I really enjoy reading the "liner notes"....you know, like where the songs were recorded, who played what and when, who was the engineer, who mixed it and where,....etc..etc....

One of America's greatest hymnwriters was Fanny Crosby (1820-1915) and here are a few interesting notes about her:

-she was a Methodist.
-she was blind from aproximately 6 weeks old due to a medical procedure that should not have been performed.
-wrote over 8,000 hymn texts.
-reportedly said * "MOTHER, IF I HAD A CHOICE, I would still choose to remain blind...for when I die, the first face I will ever see will be the face of my blessed Saviour."
-some of her best known hymn are "Blessed Assurance", "He hideth my soul", "Pass me not O gentle Savior", "I am Thine O Lord".........

One of my personal favorites is "Jesus Keep Me Near The Cross", especially the first line and refrain:

Jesus, keep me near the cross; there a precious fountain,
free to all, a healing stream, flows from Calvary's mountain.

In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever,
till my raptured soul shall find rest beyond the river.

*http://www.believersweb.org/view.cfm?ID=83

Will Sings ABC's

2008-08-03T20:54:00.001-07:00

Our Week in Pictures..!!??!!

2008-08-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

Needless to say, there is never a dull moment around our house, .....thanks to our beloved "little Will"..!!

I like this Song.......

2008-07-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

Church and Modesty

2008-07-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

Here's a post by a friend of mine that addresses the issue of modesty of dress especially in relationship to church attendance. Check it out.........it's something as Christians we can't afford to ignore the importance of especially in that we do not want to cause someone to "stumble".
He included some good links for reference in evaluating this touchy issue. Go to http://rodcarroll.wordpress.com/

Christians, Culture and the World

2008-07-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

I listen to Alistair Begg on the radio coming to work at times and today his message delt with issues that hit prettly close to home. We Christians at times tend to lose our focus on what it means to live the Christian life and interact with the world around us and wind up trying to "Christianize" activities on one hand, and protest some people's lives in a way that comes across as self-righteous and unkind on the other.
Pastor Begg's message is entitled "the Kingdom of God pt. B" and is well worth the listen if you get the chance. Check out http://www.truthforlife.org for July 30, 2008.

Starbucks Fun Facts

2008-07-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

You probably heard about all the Starbucks Coffee house cutbacks.
Here are some interesting tidbits I came accross in the Baton Rouge Advocate (newspaper) recently:

Anticipated store closures for the following states:

Louisiana = closing 21% of existing 57 stores.
Mississippi = closing some 40% of existing 17 stores.
Alabama = closing 24% of existing 51 stores.

I know this post has no significance unless you are an employee of Starbuck's........but it just seems strange that a company of this size would be making such racial changes so quick. Let me explain: In Baton Rouge for example over the past year or so Starbuck's has built and opened brand new stand alone locations........that they are now turning right around and closing. I mean, the paint must be drying on some of these locations that are now marked for closure..........
......strange!!

Maybe there's a job opening in the Starbuck's organization coming soon in demographic and marketing research..!!

Hang on to your white chocolate mocha.........

STRESS BREAKERS!!!

2008-07-23T19:50:00.000-07:00

My friend Rod blogged about stress yesterday......and boy do I understand. I finished the day doing a root canal ......and well...for me as a dentist that can be one of the most stressful procedures I do. It was good for me to be able to go to church afterwords and be encouraged in the word and prayer. God really knows what He's talking about when He says "forsake not the assembling of yourselves together"(Heb. ch. 10)................He uses time with the brothers and sisters to encourage us to press on........
When I got home last night after Wednesday service,..showered etc......I was reminded of a couple of little "stress breakers" God has living in my home with me...........how can I hold on to "stress" after remembering Jesus Christ with His people and starring at these faces......?
Thank you Lord for you gifts!

Saturday Outside

2008-07-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

Neighborhood Crew

Good (popsicle) to the last drop!!

My Favorite Hymn

2008-07-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

Was listening to a song by Delirious? last night and at some point was reminded of my favorite hymn. It is by Isaac Watts. To those of you who know about church hymns you'll probably agree that brother Watts was one of the most brilliant and prolific hymwriters to date. Just grab your favorite hymnal and notice how many "well known" hymns he is responsible for. My favorite is probably a little less well known in comtempory Baptist life. Anyways, here it is......great food for the soul.

"How Sweet and Awful"

how sweet and awful is the place,
with Christ within the doors,
while everlasting love displays,
the choicest of her stores.

while all our hearts and all our songs,
join to admire the feast,
each of us cry whith thankful tongues,
"Lord, why was I a guest?"

why was I made to hear Thy voice,
and enter while there's room?
when thousands make a wretched choice,
and rather starve than come.

twas the same love that spread the feast,
that sweetly drew us in,
else we had still refused to taste,
and perished in our sin.

pity the nations oh our God,
constrain the earth to come,
send Thy victorious word abroad
and bring the stranger home.

we long to see Thy churches full,
that all the chosen race,
may with one voice and heart and soul,
sing Thy redeeming grace.

Amen

Saturday Fun......

2008-07-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday was one of those days when I have the priviledge to spend it going and doing with Julie and Will. Julie had her last swim meet of the summer today called the "City Meet", which is held annually on the LSU campus. Cathy, who is working on getting her Masters in Library Science from LSU, was heavy laden with one of her research projects. Unfortunately, she had to stay behind to do school work while I took Julie and Will to her meet. The city swim meet is participated in by the various swim teams of the greater Baton Rouge area. Boy, was it hot today and a great day to be one of the swimmers!!! Here are a few pics from our day.
Will walking......to class?? not so fast......!!!

Julie wanted to visit the Indian mounds or "hills" on campus

Gooooooooooooooo...!

On top.....

Will demonstrating the "roll" technique.........

Julie gets in on the fun.....

Like I said, it was hot. Me and Will went to see Mike the Tiger, but he was nowhere to be found......must have been soaking up some AC inside his pad.....

Julie and her swim buddy Bailey

Truly, God has been good to us......His mercies are new everyday.

Amen.

Eternity in View

2008-07-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

the King of Kings and Lord of Lords
is coming with a two edged sword,
to punish all in unbelief
and gather to Himself His sheep,
those for whom He bled and died
so justice would be satisfied,
and God Himself might be the just
and pardon sinners with Christ blood...........

Living my life for You...
pressing up and onward
with eternity in view.....
pilgrims, just passing through,
all the world is vanity,
when the savior has your view....

so comtemplate and count the cost,
what was your gain must now be loss,
if you are to have peace with God,
which comes by faith in Christ His Son,
Who is Himself the Surety,
of all who by God's grace believe,
those redeemed from future wrath,
delivered out of satan's grasp........

Living my life for You......

Swim Team Queen

2008-07-03T06:25:00.001-07:00

Julie loves to swim and is very good at it. She has been on the community swim team for the past 3 years. Here's a couple of pics from her last swim meet.

The Greatest Exhange Ever

2008-06-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

I have a couple of verses that have been a part of my daily scripture meditation now for a good while. One of which is one of my all time favorites:

"HE made HIM who knew no sin, to be sin on our behalf,
thate we might become the righteousness of God in HIM." 2cor. 5:21

Imagine this........everything, and I mean everything that God requires for a person to be accepted by HIM is ours in Jesus Christ. All of our acceptance is in Him. By faith in HIM, we become all that God requires us to be.....perfectly righteous.........in Chirst.

I have great need to tell that to myself..........everyday.........

Now I must go and obey such a Savior.............

The Power of Words

2008-06-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

Sticks and Stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me. What a lie!!
Our God is a God of "words".......in fact our God, the Lord Jesus Christ is THE WORD made flesh.
Words are powerful. They can wound the spirit or build up and encourage greatly. In Eph. ch.4 Paul says to "let no unwholesome word proceed out of your mouth but only such a word as is good for edification, as fits the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear."
WOW...........what a challenge.

On the positive side of this the words of great Hymns and Christian songs can be a powerful tool to derive encouragement from. One of my all time favorites I call "Ruler of the Skies". When faced with the frustrations of this life these words can be a great source of encouragement.

**"Ruler of the Skies"

Sovereign Ruler of the skies,
ever gracious ever wise,
all my times are in thy hands,
all events at thy command.

His decree who formed the earth,
fixed my first, and second birth,
parents, native place and time,
all appointed were by him.

Times of sickness, times of health,
times of penury and wealth,
He that formed me in the womb,
He shall guide me to the tomb.

(All my times shall ever be,
ordered by His wise decree.)

Plagues and death around me fly,
but till God bids, I cannot die,
not a single shaft can hit,
till the God of love sees fit...!!!

**taken from William Gadsby's hymnal

1984.......memories of Reformation

2008-06-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

Was reading a post by my friend Rod Carroll (http://rodcarroll.wordpress.com) and it triggered memories of some 24 years ago when our little baptist church in south Louisiana underwent enormous changes........really a reformation of sorts.
I was 19 years old and the Lord was really dealing with me when our church called a new pastor. He was a young man in his early to mid 30's with a consuming zeal for the glory of God unlike anything I had experienced in a person up to that point in my life. Our church was a typical southern baptist church at the time in that we had probably 2X the amount of people or more on the rolls compared with those who actually attended on a regular basis.
Pastor Bill Ascol came in and with loving boldness began to proclaim what those of us in reformed baptist circles know as "The Doctrines of Grace".........an outworking of which places a solid biblical emphasis on the Holiness of God and the personal sanctification of the individual believer Justified by faith in Christ...............all of which leads to the biblical doctrine of a Regenerate Church Membership..........something that has fallen on hard times (see Rod's post on his site).
.......well, Bro. Bill sure got himself in hot water (humanly speaking) by simply preaching the bible.........................in fact, more people were probably upset over his seeking to lovingly restore/purge members who were no longer attending (long before he became pastor) and advocating biblical personal holiness than over his preaching of the sovereignty of God.
By the grace of our Lord Jesus, I was born again sometime before or during all of this. Bro. Bill will always hold a very special place in my heart for his willingness to preach Jesus Christ, the whole council of God, no matter the cost. May God Bless him and his younger brother Tom as well as my current pastor Fred Malone in all they do to promote biblical Christianity in our southern baptist churches.

Decisional Regeneration..........i think alot of the blame falls here.

JOHN BUNYAN

2008-06-05T12:48:00.000-07:00

John Bunyan (1628-1688)
.....what an amazing person.
He wrote perhaps the most widely known and read book apart from the bible in "The Pilgrim's Progess". But did you know he wrote numberous other books?? Mount Zion Bible Church in Pensacola, Fla. has a great web site with a section dedicated to the works of John Bunyan. You can download and read (and possibly even print?) practically everything he published.
I highly recommend reading anything written by this saint of years gone by. You will not regret it....!!! I used his book "Justification by an Imputed Righteousness" as a sunday school lesson book several years ago and was greatly blessed. This little book is a must read today at a time when I fear little is really understood and appreciated regarding Christ's perfectly lived life and wrath satisfying death for believers. Give it a Read.....!!!

p.s. "Bunyan"........might be a good name for a Christian band....?....you heard it here first.
http://www.mountzion.org/bunyan.html

Destin 2008....

2008-05-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

The Lord graciously gave us the opportunity to enjoy some family vacation time last week in Destin, Fla.

.....here are a few pics from the week that was.

.... WOW......!

Julie riding the surf........ ...our temporary pet "Mr. Crabb"

......what a pretty smile......!

What a HAM..! ....me and my sweetheart..!

............playing it like he means it....

our little girl turned 11 yrs. old..!!!

picture perfect........praise the Lord.....!

Spring Time Zoo Trip.......

2008-05-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

A beautiful spring day at the Zoo........!!!

Meet the Family pt.1 Julie and Sammy......and Will's new skill

2008-05-12T19:36:00.000-07:00

Julie's loves her dog "Sammy".......he's been with us now for 9 years. It's amazing he is still alive, .......seriously..........aside from the fact that when we got him he pooped in the house in too many places to mention and so was on my hit list early on......... (having received numerous spankings and punishments......all of which at this point may have actually worked and we kinda have a pretty good relationship now.)............he's also been hit by at least two cars and survived ....even spending the night in doggy ICU so to speak..!!!! His time outside now is on a leash and Julie and Will spend time with him playing in the backyard........

Will's new skill is riding his sisters RAZOR. Julie does not ride it much any more....kinda outgrown it I guess......but Will found it in the garage and all by himself figured it out......he calls it his "gooter"(scooter)........and for a little guy, he's pretty good.......no serious accidents yet..... thank the Lord..!!!

Creation....Time......Technology....

2008-05-04T18:12:00.000-07:00

Interesting Facts:

---Creation scientists tell us the earth is between 6,000 and 10,000 years old.

---Potentially up to 5,850 years passed before the advent of "harnessed electricty" and the invention of the lightbulb in the mid to late 1800's.

---That being the case, up to 97% of those who have EVER lived NEVER experienced: Television, Telephones, Cell phones, Computers, Electricity (lightbulb technology)....etc ...all these things being a mere 150 years old or less.

What an amazing time we have been living in by the providence of God.

If you have questions regarding some of the issues envolving Creationism vs. Evolution, check out the folks at Answers in Genesis at answersingenesis.org. They have great resources on all significant topics in this field. If you have kids in the public school system you need to be informed and ready to combat the lies of those who oppose God and His Truth. Our children are being bombarded daily with the lies of evolution and I can say my family has personally benefitted from some of the resources that Answers in Genesis offers. Check them out....!!!

.........uh oh....Spaghetti O's

2008-05-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

Had to capture this moment Wednesday night. After a day with Cathy at the oral surgeon we decided "soup" would make up the evening dinner menu. Obviously, Will had spaghetti O's. Every one had finished dinner and Will had eaten to our satisfaction but indicated he wanted "more". Well, we gave him more, gave him his spoon (which he is very good at using properly) and left him to himself to finish up. Five minutes or so pass and I pass by and check on him and to my surprise, he was no longer using his spoon but had resorted back to his hands..........and well the result was.............looks like William doing a Braveheart impersonation..!!

The LAW and The GOSPEL

2008-03-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

Does the 10 commandments have any bearing on the Christian's day to day living?

Is the Christian under any obligation to keep God's 10 commandments?

It should be understood that the following comments have to do with people who already profess to be believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Our personal understanding and beliefs on this subject of the Law and the Gospel has a direct impact on how we view Christian sanctification ie..our being conformed more to Christ's image in this life.

First, I want to be completely clear regarding the following:

1. Does a person in any way "earn" their salvation/justification before God by keeping or trying to keep God's Law? ABSOLUTELT NOT

2. Does a Christian maintain his or her salvation by their obedience to God's 10 commandments? ABSOLUTELY NOT

Justificaion is by faith alone in Christ alone.

It is my understanding from the scriptures however, that the Law (10 comm.) does play a very important role in Christian sanctificaion. Christians are called to obey God's Law from a motive of love and gratitude. The bible is very clear that Christian's are to live lives of holiness and obedience to God...........not to earn God's favor but in view of God's favor having already been bestowed on them through the work of Jesus Christ on their behalf. Note the following scriptures:

Jesus said: "If you love me, you will keep my commandments" John 14:15

and: "you shall love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength and your neighbor as yourself" and that this basically sums up the Law and the Prophets. See also Matt. ch. 5 where Chist shows that the Law applies not only to our actions, but thoughts and desires as well.

"This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments......" 1John 5:3

In Romans Paul says "Love does no wrong to his neighbor" Rom. 13:10

So to really love God means you will want to:1. give Him first place in your life.

2. worship Him only and in His prescribed manner.

3. honor Him with the way you speak of him.

4. worship Him on His special day.

5. respect and obey your parents.

6. not hate and murder in heart or acton

7. not commit adultery but honor the marriage bed.

8. not steal anothers property or time etc..

9. speak the truth in love.

10. seek to be content with your lot in life.

If we really love God, to do these things (in heart and action) will not be a burden to us for it is never a burden to please someone you really have love and affection for. The Law then is very simply God's plain instructions on how to please Him, .........not to earn salvation, but in view of salvation already received by faith in Christ..........having been redeemed with the precious blood of Christ who shed His blood to atone for all of the times we have transgressed the Law of such a good, kind and holy God.

To perhaps overstate what should be obvious, Christians are to be people who avoid sin out of love for their savior, and "sin is the transgression of the Law" 1John 3:4

Lastly, does the Christian then look to the Law for strength and motivation to obey it...??

ABSOLUTELY NOT.

The Christian must look to Christ....remembering His love and sacrifice for his sins as that which can arouse warm love and affection and motivation to obey his God and Savior in all things.

We must look to Jesus Christ and remember His love for us..........and that should be enougth to motivate the true believer to love and obey God.

The Law will remind us of our sins and show us our sins and what God requires of us. The Gospel shows us the Saviour who kept the Law for us, taking its condemnation for our sins on Himself, and in turn gives us the "love motivation" to keep His commandments.

Respectfully in Christ,

adam town

Welcome...!!!

2008-03-11T11:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the Town family Blog.....!!