Leslie and Sally on the Lose

Chasing animals can be great exercise, and I have been getting more than I bargained for lately. Yesterday, I finally got 2 goats. We affectionately named them Leslie(the white one), after our niece, and Sally(the tan one), after a dear friend. I paid $35 each for them from Mr. Varner in Mulga. He has quite a few goats, maybe 20. I have wanted some goats for a long time to help clean off some of my 9 acres of overgrown weeds and brush. For several weeks I have been reading and working to get an electric fence finished to put them in and built a small shed to shield them from the weather(they don't like rain). Well, one of my bargains wasn't so much of a bargain after all. I bought a new(in the sealed package) fence charger from Odd Lots Hardware(a great place to shop in Hueytown). It was supposed to charge a fence for 20 acres. Well, I had no more got the goats in the fence than they got out. They touched the fence and didn't seem to mind so I knew something was wrong. My tester showed it was charging. Well, it wasn't charging much and soon died completely. James Copeland, my neighbor, brother and friend, came out and helped me herd them back to the house and he checked the fence and it wasn't charging at all. He had an spare charger. We hooked it up and they were still in there this morning, so I'll keep my fingers crossed. I think the one who got the most out of all of this is Susan. She got a dose of medicine laughing at me. She would have really enjoyed it if she hadn't been sick. Hope you are feeling better, honey. I'm sure I'll be posting more about this adventure later.

Bandit On The Lose Again

Hard to believe I haven't blogged in so long. Well, a good way to start catching up is to revisit an old topic. One of the first things I wrote on this blog was about Bandit, our Border Collie, getting lose and having to chase him down. He stays in the back yard in a fence, so when he gets out he is a wild buck. Friday the A/C repairman came and had to get in the back yard. Bandit was penned up on the poarch for his visit. The repairman told me to turn the air on and when I went inside, in spite of my best efforts, Bandit slipped past me and off to the races. He marked the entire area first, then went back and forth running as fast as he could. He would not even pay attention to me calling him. I think I saw a grin on his face as he looked at me standing there with my rope. I knew he would wear me down, so I decided on wearing him down instead, chasing him on the lawnmower. He went to three houses, that had dogs. He took a trip down the middle of Shady Grove Road(busy highway) as if he owned it. Then he settled in at a house that had a fence with at lease 10 ankle biter dogs. He circled the fence several times, with all the littly yappers following him around on the inside. This included a stretch right through these folks newly planted garden. The lady came out of the house in her gown and was very kind. She grinned too, as Bandit circled the house and I kept trying to get him to come to me, to no avail. After a while she walked out into the yard and said, "Come here, Bandit" and he went right to her. She held him for me til I could get the rope on his collar. I walked him home, then went back to get my mower. Whew. Never let anyone tell you that dogs are loyal to their masters. I feed him every day, water him, pet him, buy him dog biscuits and treats and what do I get- heartache. He's a good dog!

Snow Day

Any other day, this snow would be so much fun. Our Gospel Meeting starts today with David Sain. We will likely meet for those who can come, but I know there will be several who can't make it. I guess it will be up to me to eat all of that extra delicious food that Susan has cooked. What a chore!

Put On Your Mask First

The morning paper has another account of a child who was critically injured by her own family’s carelessness. This time, an 11 year old girl drank from a bottle that she thought was Sprite and came inside choking. It turned out that the bottle contained hydrochloric acid, an ingredient for crystal methamphetamine and she was severely burned. The authorities found three meth labs in a small trailer near where the girl was playing. One wonders if the family member(s) responsible would have forced the young girl to drink such a substance? Probably not. But their failure to obey the law cause the young innocent to be harmed. This story made headlines because it was an unusual circumstance, but there are millions of similar stories each day that are not reported.
Children of alcoholics are more likely to become alcoholics themselves. Often they start drinking when it is given them by their parents, or when the “forbidden fruit” is taken from the family refrigerator or liquor cabinet. No, these children are not likely to be taken to the emergency room. Seldom do such things get reported in the newspaper.
An even more subtle danger is when children follow in their parents footsteps away from God. The materialistic parent may wonder what happened when their child grows up and fails to ever visit them or show any type of love. You see, there is only a very short space between breaking the greatest commandment to honor God (Matt. 22:37-38), and the one that tells children to respect their parents (Ep. 6:1-2). Lawless parents breed lawless children. That is true regarding God’s law as well as civil laws.
Last week I had a public conversation with a lady who was telling me about her financial and health problems. She remarked that she was working two jobs to try to make ends meet. Her doctor had told her that she badly needed surgery but she couldn’t take off from work because she couldn’t provide for her son who was in college. I suggested that he might have to take a semester off and reminded her of an example that I had heard some time ago. When the stewardess gives emergency instruction to airplane passengers, she tells them how to use the oxygen mask. Her instructions tell parents accompanied by small children, “Put yours on first, then the child.” A helpless child needs his parent to help him to safety.
Parents must be diligent to make sure that first, they do what is right. Then instruct the child in the principles of truth. Unfaithful, non church going parents seldom bring up children to know God. In careless incidents where children are harmed, parents are often heard to say, “I never meant for my child to end up like this.” But the question is, did you take the necessary precautions to prevent it?
Any judge will tell you that regular Sunday school attendance will go a long way in crime prevention. Don’t send your child to church, bring them.
David Courington

To The Love of My Life on Valentine's Day

It started with a greeting,
By blind chance a meeting,
Or was it by God’s providence,
I believe there is much evidence,

For whatever the reason,
A friendship bloomed in season,
The two became a pair,
It seemed something special was there.

It wasn’t very long,
Until the passion grew so strong,
The spark was now a flame,
The two would soon share a name,

Days turned to months, then years,
Sharing happy days and a few tears,
One thing never wavered,
It was the One that these two favored.

And the love that was born of a spark,
Was a wildfire that raged in the heart.
It kept growing by leaps and bounds,
Spreading light to those around.

Children came and grandkids too,
There were friends, more than a few,
But the others never distracted,
From the deep love they contracted,

With growing, faithful, love you see,
That’s the way it’s meant to be,
Love never ends or dims in time,
When it’s the special, godly kind.

David Sain at Sylvan Springs Church of Christ

It is a joy to be able to invite you to our revival on March 1-4, 2009 at Sylvan Springs Church of Christ. Our speaker will be Bro. David Sain who is preaching for the congregation at Fayetteville, Tn and working with the International Gospel Hour. Bro. David has been with us before and he always does an outstanding job of preaching the truth in love.

On Sunday we will have lunch together after the morning service and then have a singing at 1:15 p.m. Following that, we will have our afternoon service at 2:00 p.m. Then on Monday through Wednesday nights we will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. We always enjoy the pleasure of having our visitors, and we do hope that you will come as you have opportunity.

Marty, Marty

Many of you know my good friend and brother, Marty Glenn. He is an elder at Sylvan Springs and a prince of a fellow. Marty is in Baptist Princeton Hospital recovering from serious surgery. He is improving and supposed to get out of ICU today. Please continue to remember him and his family in your prayers.

Calm Today

Haven't posted for a while so I thought I would give a quick update. How calm is it? Well I just checked my unmedicated blood pressure and it was 113/60. Guess that weight loss(74 pounds) and treadmill work are paying off. It was even quite calm at the nursing home today. Mom and Dad are doing well for the time being. It was even quite calm at church today. While the sea of life has lots of waves, and we have to roll with the punches, it is nice to have calm, even for a short time. Susan and I are really looking forward to getting back to FHU this week for the lectures. Since we didn't get to go last year, we are especially excited about it. Keep in touch.

Cold Days In Bama

No snow, but plenty of frost here. Hope you are staying warm.

10 Tips- Practical Advice From the Treadmill

10 Tips- Practical Advice From the Treadmill-

Being on the treadmill for 40+ minutes gave me some time to think and I am ready for some Monday morning straight talk. Here is some no pulling punches, no holds barred, down to brass tacks solid advice for this young year. If you don’t want to read it, delete it. Go to another site…you have my permission (No, of course you don’t need it, but this is for the wimpy among us.) So here it is:



1) Self Improvement- Turn off the TV and look in the mirror. Yes, I was watching TV while on the treadmill, and one of the talk shows had several “experts” critiquing the “stars”, showing video clips from the Golden Globe Awards. One was fat, the other had one of the worst hairdos that I have ever seen, and none of them were dressed in any way that would make you think that they deserved a “Best Dressed” award. Yet they could laugh and find all sorts of fault. Sadly, they are like most of us. They find it easier to criticize others than to improve themselves. Remember the scripture, “Judge not, that you be not judged….And why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? ...Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.”(Matthew 7:1-5). Mirrors are great for getting specks out of your own eye. The Bible is the best mirror of all, but too often a man “forgets what kind of man he was.” (James 1:24-25). Take a good look at yourself in God’s mirror. He will help you become who you need to be.



2) Work- Get off the snooze button and on to work. Yes, there are a lot of folks who are out of work, but industrious people usually find a way to find a job. Jobs are found by those up and awake, not those in bed or on the couch. The more you work at finding work, the more likely you are to find it. If you can’t find a job that pays what you want, find one that pays what you can get- a little is always better than nothing. Some take the approach- “I can make more at home.” That may be true, but you can find a job easier if you already have one, and it is much better for your health and mental well being to be working. If you can’t find paying work, work at something that will help someone else (God’s work always pays off), or pay off for you later, such as getting a better education. Remember what you Mama told you- “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”



3) Weight loss- Forget the latest fad diet and do what you already know to. You know you can’t get skinny eating double Whoppers. Eat smaller portions. Leave off the bread, butter and bacon for a while. Remember you can have anything you want to eat- but not everything you want to eat right now! It will taste even better tomorrow. Drink water- It will save you calories, money and make you feel better than all that caffeine.



4) Money- Get off of Ebay and on to God’s plan- Give some, Save Some, Spend Some. Next time you start to bid or buy- stop! Give ½ and save ½ and both you and the church will prosper. Or were you going to spend money on that credit card you did not have in the first place? If so, did you really need it or really want it? If it was a want- delay buying for just 24 hours and see what you think then. Shop for groceries at Aldi or the local bent and dent save bunches. Stop going to the bingo hall and go to the credit union instead(Few of them are in any financial trouble and they pay more interest and charge less fees than banks.)



5)Feeling Blue- Do all of the above. Getting out of the house, making small improvements in your health, finances, and spiritual condition will give you a sense of well being. True depression is a medical problem. If you are clinically depressed, see a doctor before anything else. If one doesn’t work, find another. Spend time with happy people.



6)Sex- Not married- take a cold shower, not someone else’s mate. Married- stop being selfish and spend more time doing something to make your spouse happy. Sex is all about unselfishness. (Read 1 Cor. 7:1-5). Having physical problems, see a doctor, now!



7)Child Rearing- Since all of my children are grown and gone, I can now advise others. Perhaps advising is more fun than rearing children. Not really. Here goes- tell them you love them a lot, spank them when they need it, but praise them twice a much. Be consistent, united, and determined. Don't get down on your child. Never give up on them- one day, or year does not a life make. Have fun with them. Remember that your most powerful teaching tool is your example. Make good memories for them and they will make good memories for you.



8) Prayer- Pray instead of worrying (Phil. 4:6). Fretting solves nothing, just makes problems bigger. If you can’t quit worrying, refer to number 2 above.



9) Politics- Don’t give much attention to politics. The world was helped more by Jesus, a carpenter’s son, than any politician that ever lived. Political power may reside in Washington, but all power rest in Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18). We can probably change the world more by saving one soul than passing a hundred laws.



10)Music- Add a little music to your life. Nothing invigorates quite like singing as loud as you can, in the shower or out. Singing praises to God is one of life’s greatest blessings. Regarding secular music, listen to bluegrass, more than blues- it will put pep in your step. David Courington

Grandma's Glasses

“Two small boys were discussing eye glasses and one said, “Wouldn’t you hate to wear glasses?” The other boy replied, “No. Not if I could wear the kind grandma wears. My mother says she can always see when people are tired, discouraged and sad. But best of all, she can always see the good in others.”
Too often we look at one’s physical appearance and fail to see the true person inside. John 7:24 says, “Judge not according to appearance.” I believe if we were to look through the glasses of Christ, we too would see people in a totally different perspective”
Author Unknown

Though I do not know the author of this short article, I do believe the lesson is powerful. As a young boy or girl, who would take up your case and stand up for you like Grandma? Her love was genuine and unconditional. She loved first, and did not look for our faults. In fact, she overlooked them. Isn’t that what Peter taught in 1 Peter 4:8 when he said, “ Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8 ESV). It is amazing what one will endure for one he loves. But if love does not run deep, one will not put up with much out of another person. Not only are their character flaws (everybody has some) magnified, but even their looks, health, and strength can become a source of disgust.
The next time you start to get really aggravated at another, particularly a brother or sister in Christ, it might do good to ask, “How would I feel about this if it was my grandchild, or my brother, or my mother?” Paul actually told Titus to think on these lines in his work as a minister. He said, “Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father. Treat younger men like brothers, 2 older women like mothers, younger women like sisters, in all purity.” 1 Tim 5:1-2 (ESV)
So next time you have a problem with another, it might be good to take a look at them through “Grandma’s Glasses.”
David Courington

Holiday Greeting

One of God's greatest blessings is dear friends and family with whom we can share our lives. Thanks for being a special part of mine. All my love and best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you.

Would You Sell Your Soul For A Fruitcake?

(Here is some "food" for thought, and a sermon idea or bulletin article for you preachers out there.)
Many folks would quickly tell you either, "I love fruitcake," or "I hate fruitcake." I can fall into either category depending on what kind of fruitcake it is. I have had some that I hated. I really liked the Benson Old Home Fruitcake that came in my Aunt Marie's package from Virginia each year. But my love for fruitcake started many years ago with a dear Parrish preacher's wife, Betty Bramlett. She gave Mom and Dad one that she made and it had no filler cake- practically all of it was candied cherries and pecans. Whatever else was in there was delicious. In recent years I have made some that I really liked. This year I found that Costco has a fantastic fruitcake that is better and much cheaper than I can make one. Enough about that, what would you do for a good fruitcake?
Hosea 3:1 shows how the Israelites left God and served idols. Part of the reason was they loved the "raisin cakes of the pagans." That reminds me of Esau who sold his birthright for a bowl of stew(Gen. 25:29-34).
I would hope that none of us would forsake the true God for a fruitcake, but some forsake him for worthless things:

Some forsake God for earthly riches that will persish(Matt 19:21-24; 1 Tim.6:17-19)
Some forsake God for alcohol(1 Cor 6:9-11; Prov 20:1)
Some forsake God for sexual pleasure(Heb 12:14-17; 1 Cor 6:18-20).

Nothing is more important than our relationship with God that will lead to eternal life. Would you sell it for a fruitcake? Some do it for less! David Courington

Home Again for the Holidays

Home Again for the Holidays
There is some truth to the saying, “You can never go home again.” Since change is a part of every life, home is not the same when you go back. But you can go home again, with wonderful reminiscences.
No, I did not grow up in the day when you got just an apple and some nuts for Christmas. Yes, we had fruit and candy in a stocking, but there were always presents and and usually at least one special toy that myself or my brother Billy were excited about. I recall us getting a Creepy Crawler Maker, pogo sticks, and Billy getting a dancing monkey named Clancy.
Guns were always Christmas favorites for me. I remember Mama and Papa Courington getting me a really nice set of metal cap pistols with holsters and all, just like the kind Hoss had on Bonanza. I had admired them in the window of Wilson Beard’s grocery story for some time. By the time I got them, my anticipation was built to a fever pitch. Perhaps my favorite gun was a big bazooka called a “Big Blast.” Dad had to go to Birmingham for that one. You pumped it up and it did indeed have a “Big Blast” as it shot a ball of air several feet away. You could set up a paper cup or something and knock it over if you were a good enough shot.
I remember when I was 11 or 12 and wanted a real gun. I had made sure that Mom and Dad knew that I really wanted one. I don’t remember anyone saying, “You’ll shoot your eye out,” but I do recall that there was no small amount of discussion as to whether I should have one. I kept looking at the packages under the tree and hoping. I really didn’t think I was getting it. There was one box that was heavy enough, but not nearly long enough. Little did I know that rifles come in two pieces. Excited was not the word when I opened it and found that I had not only gotten a gun, but a really nice one, a Remington 22 semi-automatic with a handsome wooden stock.
Yes, I still have it and I think I’ll get it out and shoot some next week, and reminisce some more about how much fun it was to go to the dump with Dad and shoot it. I would also get to shoot the WW I Colt 45 that his uncle Bill left him. I didn’t want to shoot it much- too much recoil(and I think that my be what damaged my hearing in one ear.)
No, I have never shot anyone or even come close, but Billy did almost shoot me once. We went squirrel hunting with Papa Studdard in Winston County. I used my Remington and Billy used an old single shot that belonged to Papa Courington. As we were walking along(with a bit of snow on the ground in the shady spots,) I heard that rifle’s sharp, loud pop right by me- so much for the theory that guns don’t go off accidentally. He was in front of me, holding it over his shoulder pointing back, but luckily I was a little to the right. Hmmm- seems like it always pays off to stay a little to the right.
I guess that is enough cogitating for now, but remember, in the musings of the mind, you can always go home again for the holidays.

Sympathy

We were saddened to learn of the death of Mandi's(Daniel's wife)grandfather, Mr. Bradford(David's dad) on Saturday. He had a car accident in Albertville. He was a member of the Blessing Church of Christ. The funeral will be on Tuesday at Albertville Memorial Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m. Not only have we grown to love Mandi very much, but her Mom,Dad and family as well. I want to express my deepest sympathy to all of them.

Come For A Visit

Many of the readers of this blog are members at Sylvan Springs, but several are not. Some are friends, perhaps just acquaintances who hopefully will become friends, family and others. I wanted to give you a reminder during this time of the year when many are thinking of spiritual things, that you are always welcome at Sylvan Springs Church of Christ. In fact, you are more than welcome. We really want you to come for a visit. Have a great day.

Thank You for Being My Friend

This morning, I read the paper as usual, and went to the financial page to see how my IRA was doing. Of course it took another big fall this week, not that I had much in there anyway. Instead of feeling blue, for some reason, I was overwhelmed with a warm feeling of how blessed I am. Only a short time afterwards, Kim called to tell me of the good news that Paul had passed his National Board Teacher Certification, and we are thrilled about that. Paul is such a good son in law. You know, most every day brings some good news, and some bad.
But every day is a time to give thanks. Nothing can compare with the debt of gratitude that we owe to God our maker, for his abundant blessings. That old song, “There shall be showers of blessing”(Ezek 34:26), should be sung on rainy days and sunny days, both of which are given by God. But with the approach of this Thanksgiving Day, I want to say thanks to him for all of the wonderful friends (kinfolks included) that have helped sustain me.
During this past year I lost one of my closest friends, Bob Norris, to an early death. His warm voice so often buoyed me when we talked. He was one of those kind of friends that you were always comfortable with, that some people only find once in a lifetime, but I have been so blessed to have many. I can’t tell him how much I appreciate him, but I can tell you how glad I am that you are my dear friend.
In 2008, one of my dearest friends moved away. Instead of talking to him several times a week and working with him closely at church, we talk less frequently and see each other far less. I miss him, but I am glad that we are still friends though separated by a few miles. If I am separated from you, my friend, by distance near or far, I want you to know that you are still my good friend and I appreciate you.
During this past year, my Mom and Dad were both hospitalized at the same time, seriously ill. I thought we were going to lose both of them. They are doing much better at present and I am so thankful for that. No, Dad still doesn’t know me, but I know him, and his smile when I go to visit is priceless. One of the nurses told me some time ago, “If she could pick a disease to have in old age, it would be Alzheimer’s. It is hard on the family, but you don’t know you have it.” Well, I hate it for him and the family, but I am thankful especially for all of the good friends who have been so helpful in this hard time.
There have been so many medical people, and others who have gone out of their way to be helpful. The folks at Cherry Hill Healthcare have been topnotch in showing compassion and concern. Our church family has been very supportive. Many friends have continued to send cards and express concern. Our family has rallied to help, as they could. For all of these friends, I give thanks.
On October 9, my sister in law, Mary, finally got her new liver. She is making slow, but sure progress getting back to “normal.” Was Mary ever “normal”? Her zest for life, good humor, and knack for getting into “predicaments,” have prompted some to call her “Lucy”. We surely would not want to be without her. We are so thankful for God’s blessing, but also for so many who prayed, and continue to offer help in so many ways. We have many friends who are not of the “fair weather” kind, and for that we are so thankful.
Day before yesterday, Jasmine, my niece, had a car wreck. I felt so sorry for her because she had just paid off her car the day before, and only had liability insurance. Did I mention that she was hit by an 18 wheeler? Wow, and she did not have a single scratch, though her car was demolished. The truck ran a red light and the police wrote it up that way, so, hopefully they will get her another car, but we couldn’t find another Jasmine. I am thankful today that we still have her, and our other family and friends.
I could go on and on, but I simply wanted to say, “Thanks” to so many of you, who mean so much to me. I love you. David

Now That The Election Is Over

About half an hour ago I went to the polls and voted. Whatever happens regarding who becomes our president is now out of my hands. Though some will disagree, I have always felt that living in a country with a democratic form of government places a responsibility on me to vote and do what I can to ensure that our country will be a nation that allows men freedom to follow Christian principles without restriction. After all, the Bible does teach that we are to do all of the good that we can and that we will be judged in part by how we use our opportunities.( See Gal. 6:10, James 4:17). Pilate was not right in simply washing his hands of Jesus. He had opportunity to do something about it. Can I sit idly by and do nothing when such issues as abortion, gay marriage, and gambling issues are on the ballot? That is irresponsible., But I also believe that Christians and churches can be too wrapped up in politics. Some are so caught up in their “party” they do not even consider issues. Still others will consider only what a man says that he is for and not what he has proved to be by his record. We need to remember that if the world is to be changed for the good, it will be by the gospel of Christ (Rom. 1:16-17), and not political means. Governments can change laws, but the gospel changes lives. I believe what the scriptures says in Proverbs 14:34, “Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people.” Righteousness is practiced, not voted in. Sin is a result of men turning away from God and his word. Political parties won’t change that. Now that the election is over, no matter which way it went, my main focus should be on spreading the gospel of Christ, and living a righteous example before all. Elections change leaders, but the gospel changes hearts., Furthermore, we need remember that though we do not have a command to vote, there are 2 specific commands that we do have regarding our government authorities. First, we must be subject to them. Romans 13:1-3 says, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same.” There is no place for a rebellious spirit among the saints., Too, we are told, “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.”(1 Tim 2:1-3). We should pray for our new leaders, whoever they are. David Courington

Where is Jimmy Carter when you need him?

The Birmingham News reports that there are 6 counties in South Alabama that have more registered voters than people. Jimmy Carter has travelled the world to see that 3rd world countries have fair and free elections. Would someone send him to LA?(for the ignorant- lower Alabama).

The Old Book Case

The Old Book Case

In that old case, there were many books,
Varied size and color gave them many looks,
A story was told by every one,
How old books make our memories run,

The books of wonder on that old shelf,
Tell of Grandma and her studious self.
She loved history books and dictionaries,
She wasn’t into ghosts and fairies.

Grandpa had no books up there,
He worked with his hands, no books to share,
But there was one book that had his name,
The Holy Bible, where he placed his claim.

The book of Bible stories from which my Mother taught,
Brought uncontrolled tears, that I had not sought,
But reminded me of how as a little child,
I was molded by her love that taught me, so mild.

There were other shelves that had books a plenty,
These belonged to Dad, there were so many,
They were not about golf, and hunting, and such,
But the Lord and his church he loved so much.

That old book case now belongs to another,
It wasn’t kept by me or my brother,
But the memories live in our heart and soul,
That old book case, helped to make us whole.
David Courington
10/20/08