Update...late summer

Bald Knob, AR was an interesting, enjoyable destination.  I believe Keith and Meredith, and boys Carson and Keegan, will do a great job there.  The people love them already, and they seem to be a good fit, even though they are basically northern bred folks.  I was impressed with the level of cooperation among the preachers in the section.  They too seemed to take the Kirks right into their hearts. 

The next week after coming home, I attended our Ohio District Men’s Retreat.  Awesome messages delivered by Gary Keller, Jonathan Perry and Doug Klinedinst had a deeply moving effect on the men.  Doug Klinedinst agreed to come on a moment’s notice because the announced speaker had a conflict in his schedule and couldn’t come.  He had never spoken at a men’s conference before, but no one could have guessed it.  He said many memorable things, like “In a marriage, it’s takes three to make two to become one.”  His down-to-earth approach to men’s subjects was refreshing and very much appreciated.

General Conference looms before all of us.  I am glad it is in Tampa, FL and not in Ohio this year, although we enjoyed the experience in 2006.  My good friend, Pat Williams, Florida District Superintendent will get the blessing this year.  C. Patton and I attended Texas Bible College together back in the dark ages.  He is doing a wonderful job at the helm of the Florida district and I know we will have a fabulous conference.  This year brings to a head the issue of advertising on television.  If we ever needed the direction of the Holy Ghost in any matter, we need it this conference.  I have much trepidation going into the proceedings this fall, but God has never failed us yet.  I can honestly say that I do not necessarily want my way…I want God’s will.  May it be so.

My back is so much better.  Some pain irritates me occasionally, but nothing that I can’t deal with.  I’ve played golf several times in August and September and I am as bad as ever.  I am shooting anywhere between 86 and 91, so I have achieved normalcy again.  Bro. Urshan used to say that if you scored 70 or lower—-or 120 or higher—-you need to quit playing golf.  If you were at 70 or lower, you are playing way too much.  If you shoot 120 or higher, give everyone a break and hang it up.  I’m about in the middle range of his prediction. 

Added to the mix of all our busyness is the little matter of the basement flood. Actually, the carpet got soaked and we have to replace it.  The insurance covered it all for which we are very grateful.  The whole process is very time consuming, however.  We’ll be glad when it’s over.  I have too much going on to spend very much time in our basement.