Merry Christmas!

Tomorrow, Sunday, we have our yearly Christmas celebration at the church. Our children and youth will exhibit some of the finest talent in christiandom here in the Rio Grande Valley. You'll not want to miss out on this celebration of our Lords birth. Remember we meet at 10:30am and start promply on time. Arrive early to find available seating. C u there........

What's a Pastor to do?

When I went into the ministry 30 years ago, I entered with the sense that I could do no wrong. There was a confidence, I beleive from God, to go and do impossible things. The Word says, that if you can beleive all things are possible to him that believes. With a tremendous desire to serve Him and to see His kingdom grow I defied the doubts and disbelief of men and went forward confident in His ability to confirm his word. There are casualties though along the way. Just like in war we see friendly fire, when soldiers from the same side accidently shoot and kill one another. There have been sadly to say, casualties in my ministry over the years. I can honestly say from my heart that there has been no malice to anything done intentional to hurt or harm Gods special people. I can see though that some have been wounded in my attempt to serve God. No pastor enters into the ministry will any desire less than to serve and be a blessing to Gods people. The problem is that pastors are fallible and make mistakes. I have made my share of mistakes along the way. It's possible that some of my readers have been offended by something I said or did along the way, if that is so, I apologize. Sometimes people have come to me in the past sharing something I said or done that hurt them while others just disappear without saying a word. My suggestion to anyone who has been offended by a minister or someone in leadership to at least send a note letting them know how you feel. Most leaders will make an effort to change the error of their ways if communicated with. Being a parent, I have made mistakes with my kids, as a pastor I have made mistakes with some folks in my congregation. There is not doubt though that in my heart there is a love placed there by God to love and serve His people. I'd like to hear your thoughts, drop in a comment, if you want to do it anonimously. Give your minister a break! He is not perfect.

Theraputic

I've been bloggin now for one year and two months. I almost feel like I'm in a twelve step program. "Hello, my name is Patrick and I'm a blogger." Bloggin has given me a way to communicate and share some of my thoughts, concerns and projects. Looking back, for me this has been theraputic. It's been fun, and for the first time in my life I've been able to keep some kind of journal. I would encourage you to blog and when you get your page up, let me know so that I can be amused by reading about what makes you tick.

House for sale

Yep, its time to sell. When I was a teen I remember hearing a green beret preach at our church and his title was, "Don't put your stakes down too deep, you might be pulling out tomorrow." Obviously in war one has to be ready to get his gear together and be ready to get on the move. God will allow some people to put down roots but others to be ready get moving. Our homes over the years have varied from real dumps to very nice homes. Like Paul we have abased and abounded and in everything and circumstance I've learned to be content. So, its time to sell, retrieve our capitol and see what to invest in next. If you are looking for a nice home in the country with the opportunity to raise horses or a couple of cows, look no further, this place is for you.

Heart breaking

It was brought to my attention that there is a 5-6 yr old girl virtually living with the pigs in a village in India. She was seen obviously abandoned by her parents, eating what she could with a momma pig and her ten babies. The girls leg was wounded by the adult pig biting her. She has been sleeping under bridges and other shelters to protect her from the elements. We in America cannot fathom a need like this. Our minds are clouded and our understanding altered to such suffering. I am trying to do something though to assist such tragedies. As I hear about this and see with my own eyes similar situations my heart breaks and I ask myself, what really is important in life? To date I have raised around $25,000.00 US dollars for our childrens home in India. I'm a quarter of the way there. The mountain seems at times too high to climb, but if I don't make an effort, who else will? I know that I cannot erase the human suffering of the world, and God doesn't expect me too but I can do a little bit. I can do what I can and invite others to join with me to make a difference in childrens lives in this part of India. A childrens home for 100 kids will soon get off the ground. Thanks for your prayers and support.

Christmas Season

Ready for not, the season is here! Where did the year go? My how time flys! I'm thankful that I live in the greatest country in the world. Gods blessings is truly on our land. As I stroll through the shopping centers watching people busy looking for gifts and spending their money, I'm amazed at how much we have in America. The craze to stand in line for hours just to be in the position to buy the latest electronic device amuses me. Having the privilege to travel internationally, I see the disparity and contrast between extreme wealth and extreme poverty. We have so much while others have so little. I'm trying to find the balance in my life. I do want to enjoy abundance and blessings, but I also want to be a blessing to those less fortunate than I. I know that I can't meet the needs of all the worlds poor, but the ones that I have contact with, I can help out. I asked the director of the childrens home what the custom is there for Christmas and I was told that it would be nice to buy or make some new clothes for the kids there. For about $200.00 we can buy new clothes for them. We are talking about eleven kids here. Some people in America will spend that or more on gifts for their dogs, cats and other pets.

Pics of trip to Seattle

Fall leaves before the snow










Beckys' parents, brother and sister








Icey Roads










Snowing on the Space Needle

Funds are Coming in!

Today we are going back to Portland to catch an early flight tomorrow morning back home. Hopefully the roads will be ice free as we make our way there. I want to thank the people and churches were I spoke last week for your generosity. If my figures are right over eleven thousand dollars came in to help build the childrens home in India. I am so thankful for all who desire to see these orphans and homeless children have a place to call home. Soon construction will start and we will be on our way to see God make a difference in these Childrens lives. Just one note, 100% of donations given to this project reach India, we don't use any for administrative costs or for any other costs, all of your donations will be used for this project. Thanks so much. As we approach Christmas, lets think about the less fortunate and do what we can to show them a little of Gods' love.

It's Cold up here

We flew Southwest airlines into Portland, Ore and rented a car to drive up to Washington. It was a beautiful day for a drive, sunny and cold! Not too cold for the locals, but for us who are used to 85-90 degree weather, it is cold. We stopped at subway to by dinner and a couple of girls come in dressed with shorts and flip flops. They must be used to the temp here. I am excited about the ministry coming up, I will be busy most every day sharing with a church or small group about our project in India. This is not a vacation, we will go back and rest up from the work we do here. It is a joy to serve others!

Time to Raise Funds for India!

This week Becky and I will be flying to Portland, Ore and from there drive to the Seattle area to minister in some churches and homes to raise finances for the Childrens home in India. As money becomes available construction will begin. The Total cost is around $100,000.00. Thats really not too much considering that 100 kids will be housed there. Here a family of five can build a home for the same price. We will take time to visit family and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal while enjoying the wintery weather of the Northwest. I want to find some snow, make a snow ball and enjoy some "cold" weather. Today in the Rio Grande Valley it is 90 degrees. What a contrast to the 45 degree weather there.

I just want to wish my readers a Happy Thanksgiving, eat lots of turkey and apple pies. We will be back shortly to get ready for the Christmas season.

Everybody suffers somehow, sometimes

Have you ever been in a situation where to feel like u are being abused and unappreciated? We all have to go through things that are uncomfortable at the time. After the inconvience though we see the benefit of the situation and we actually feel better having gone through it. Set backs are set ups for a come back!

More Flood pics of Chirala, India

Raju is feeding Muslim flood survivors. They are experiencing the
Love of God and are very grateful








This is Bubli feeding people at an Untouchable village.






Many people are suffering with feet fungus.
These waters breed deseases.








The smell is terrible and the mosquitos hungry.








According to the News paper there are 28 dead
and 245,000 homeless. Livestock is dead, harvest destroyed, people have lost hope.

Devestating Floods

This first picture was taken in Augest on my last trip. These huts were built by Muslims trying to find a place to live. During the last weeks of October, heavy rains have produced floods that have destroyed homes, killed livestock and devestated fields. The staff of our childrens home have moved to the church building that is higher up. There home is flooded. All their clothes soaked and belonging destroyed. Maybe the most scary part are the snakes that have come out from hiding. The second pic shows the effects of the flood on the same homes seen in the first picture.

Autumn in S. Texas

What a beautiful day in South Texas to cut the grass!

Teen Challenge

What a blessing it is to have a "Teen Challenge" in the Coastal Bend area. They recently purchased 90 acres in Driscoll, Texas and are already ministering to young adults and seeing awesome results. We were blessed to have some of the women with us last Sunday in our service. God's grace most definately was evident in the testimonies and lives of these young ladies. There is a verse that says, "translated out of darkness and into His light". That is the case for these ladies. Those of you who read my blog and live in the area having missed this service, shame on you. You missed out on a Big Blessing.

Trophies of Grace

On Sunday the 29th, a group of ladies from Teen Challenge in San Antonio will be visiting our morning service. You will not want to miss out on this special event. You will hear them sing, testify and share about Gods delivering power from Drugs and addictions. Bring a friend, come expecting to receive a miracle.

Anna Jewel

Here she is, Anna Jewel, she is about 8 weeks old and is here at grandpa's visiting for a few days. One thing about her is that she really is a sweetheart. She is going to be a singer by the sound of her voice. I was thinking about how bad we mess up by not caring for the new "spiritual" babies that come our way. This baby needs constant care, she consumes all of her mothers time both day and night. Momma doesn't have her life anymore, its been lost in service to her child. The amazing thing that I notice about momma is that she does all this work with out complaining about how this baby is consuming all her free time, about the inconvienences and all the work she demands. As cute as this baby is, she cries, dirties her diaper, eats on a regular basis. Let us pay the price for the new borns that come our way and be committed to them until Christ is formed in their lives.

Set Backs!

Last Friday, I went to a "returning to your roots" concert in San Antonio. Some of the Christian artists that were popular in the "70s" and "80s" were reunited to do a concert. It was great to see Barry Mcguire, Dallas Holm, Chuck Girard, Janny Grein and others perform their classic songs from the past. Leon Petillo participated, sang and did a comedy ruitine. Towards the end he said, there is something that all of us want you to know. "A set back, is a set up, for a come back". Those words exploded in my spirit. Then on Sunday, I was at the "Macedonia Baptist Church" in San Antonio to share a little about our mission work and the guest speaker as he was promoting one of his CD's said, this one is called, "A set back, is a set up, for a comeback"! It just about blew me away. Two times in three days in completely different arenas God spoke to me. It made sence as I thought about the set backs in my life and since then everywhere I go I find somebody who is going through some kind of set back. What about you? Remember, our setbacks of life are just preparing us for a comeback of somekind in the future.

Security Walls go up!

In spite of heavy rain and other obstacles, the walls have been erected for the security of the childrens home in India. These walls were built to last. Finances are slowly coming in and as soon as we have enough to do the foundation, we will begin. This is a faith project and as we use what we have, God will give more. It is exciting to see a vision take on shape and form. Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not yet seen. Heb 11:1. Here are a couple of pics for you to see and the evidence that God honors faith.

Still numb !!

A few days have passed since I heard the news about Babu. After trying to make some kind of sense from this tragedy, God has brought me a sence of peace and victory. I can't imagine the pain that Sudheera and her family feels with this loss. The children in the home really are "Sudheera's" kids. Her brother Bubli and herself are the only parents that these children have. Sudheera told me betwween sobs while we spoke on the phone that her heart feels very heavy and hurts. The secular authorities are investigating this situation and are trying to answer the question "why". Please pray for this family. They are facing a very dificult time and the trial is very hard. Society sometimes has a hard time understanding the motive and compassion that christians share with the less fortunate. They always look for an alterior motive. One thing remains true and will never change and that is "Jesus is Lord". Our plans to build a childrens home remains firm. We are raising finances to soon begin construction. As I write this the security wall is being built and progress is being made. Jesus said that in the world you would have tribulations but to be of good cheer for He has over come the world.

A Tribute to BABU!

Babu was found in the area of Chirala homeless. No father, mother or family to care for him. Sudheera found him one day and invited him to live at her childrens home. The last time that I was in India, I watched in amazement as Babu at the age of eleven do his algebra homework. I had to take it twice in high school and never really learned it. Babu wanted to be called "Luke" from the bible. He read that Luke was a doctor and he wanted to become a doctor so that he could help other homeless kids. On Saturday of last week, Babu went to school and was humiliated in front of his peers by his teacher because of some bad grades that he recieved. During school break he went to the home let himself in with his key and hung himself by the neck with a rope. A boy with such a wonderful future in this earth is now in the presence of Jesus in heaven. Babu loved Jesus and he knew him as his Lord and saviour. The question of why always arises in situations like this, I wish I knew that answer. To all of the Babu's living in the streets of India, homeless and with no one to care for them, I recommit myself to reach them with the love of Jesus. Babu, your life will not be in vain. May God give us a harvest of children who will rejoice with us together in heaven. Sometimes there is pain in serving others.

Pastors Appreciation Day

Today my congregation showed their appreciation to me their pastor. I enjoyed hearing some words from folks whose lives have been blessed by our ministry. Someone compiled a bunch of pictures from 30 years of ministry. Has it really been that long? There was a day according to the pictures that I actually looked young. I thought to myself, who is that guy? It has been an amazing run, God has shown himself to be faithful and to honor His word even though I haven't been all that faithful. We had a good South Texas Bar-b-que chicken dinner with alot of good fixings. It was a nice day and I was blessed by my congregation and felt loved and appreciated. It is a Joy to Serve Others!

The best daughter!

I'm blessed to have a wonderful daughter. I remember the day that she was born and the miracle that surrounded her birth. Now she is a wife and recently became a mom! Anna Jewel was born a few weeks ago and is a great blessing to our family. I know Patricia that you will be an excellent mom, because you are a great daughter. Sometimes we get so busy with life that we forget the many blessing in ones life. I just want to take a moment to let the blog world know how blessed I am to have such a wonderful daughter. I think that you can tell that I was proud of her when she was born, by calling her Patricia. So Trish, when things look cloudy and fuzzy, remember that we survived raising three kids, I have faith in you that you will be an excellent mom. Love you baby!!

Estate sales

Have you ever been to an estate sale? Everytime I go I am amazed at all the stuff that people collect over a life time. I was the executor of a friends estate and her house was literally jammed packed with junk from the floor to the ceiling. We dumped several tractor trailer sized containers of garbage that came out of her house. Also hidden amongst the garbage were some very valuable items. We americans think that we can't live without our precious possessions. It is next to impossible to part with items that we think we can't live without. I'm starting to streamline my life. I don't need a closet full of suits. Two or three are all I need. Don't need racks of shoes and dressers full of clothes that I seldom if ever use. No more "new" cars. The used one thats almost paid for will work just fine.

I've learned from estate sales that when people die they leave all of their stuff for the kids to fight over. What a mess! I have a suggestion, why not have your estate sale while you are still alive and invest that money into something that will be of eternal value. Sow into mission projects, women shelters, outreach endeavors, into something that will make a difference in people eternity. Just a thought!

50th Birthday

It's only by the grace of God and His faithfulness to me that I've come this far. Looking back I see some good, bad and ugly. Looking forward, I hope not to make the same mistakes as in the past and that with the wisdom learned have a life that is productive and fruitfull for Gods kingdom. The energy of the young man I used to be is forever gone. Hopefully I will be able to accomplish more with less. Thats kinda what Paul had in mind when he said, when I am weak, He is strong. Let your strenght energize me Oh Lord and raise up young men and woman to climb the mountains and do things that they are fit to do. Its time to pass on the baton to the younger generation, who will God raise up to send? Who will go for Him? Who is willing to pay the price? Isaiah said and responded, Here I am Lord, send me.

Check it out!

If you click on "complete profile" over to the right, you will find other blogs that I am trying to keep up. One is called "God still speaks" and is my blog devotional. You might get some insight from it. The other is about the Childrens home in India. Check them out! Hey, drop me a comment, its nice to know that you read my stuff.

The Bottom Line

Being in ministry now for 30 years I've come to know the importance of having finances if you want to acheive anything for God. Not only do you need for your family, but also for fulfilling Gods calling on your life. The bottom line is having a revelation of "Who your source is." It took me quite a while to get this truth inside of my spirit. For the first couple of years my P.O. Box seemed to be my source. I went there almost everyday to see what was in the mail box for me. I later learned that God could bless me without using the mail box. Even after 30 years the biggest struggle is to really trust God to meet my every need. If I were to leave my safe, secure, comfortable position as pastor and go again to the mission field, could I again put all of my trust in Him to meet my needs? I've seen his faithfulness in the past and I know that he would continue to do the same in the future. Do you trust more your employer than you do God to meet your needs? Maybe your employer is your P.O. Box for you. Can we trust God to meet our needs "outside" of our box? We have started to build the childrens home in India "by faith", meaning that the project will continue as funds come in. I would love to do this project without having to pause for more finances becoming available. Will you join your faith with mine?

One Year Anniversary

It's hard for me to beleive that one year has passed since we started the childens home in India. I was talking with Sudheera yesterday and with excitement in her voice she reminded me of our success in one year. It is amazing what happens when you step out in faith. Sudheera had to take a step of faith. Her family told her that she was crazy to trust people she never met before in person. They told her that she would be embarrassed when she was left all alone and abandoned. Thats kinda the way our faith is in God. We have never seen him personally but yet we trust him that he will do what He has promised. Well, we started by sending an offering a month for rent, food, and other needs that the home had. Sudheera went out into the streets and collected some kids. Even the kids had to use faith as they were invited to come to a house where they could eat and sleep and go to school. Some kids didn't beleive and were left out. We now have bought property and construction has begun. First the exterior wall is going up then work will begin on the actual building. Here in the US a home for 5 could be built for about 100,000 dollars. In India we are building a home for 100 kids for the same price. Amazing! Thanks for your prayers and support, may Gods blessings continue to be outpoured upon this outreach and may many orphans know and recieve God's love in their lives.

Disciples of Who?

Jesus said in Matthew 28 to go into all the world and make disciples. This command had been taken from one extreme to another leaving many people confused as to what Jesus actually meant. You hear some people say that I am so and so's disciple. or so and so is my disciple. I suppose that there is some truth to what they are saying. Allow me to shed a little bit of light on what is being asked of us by our Lord. He is not asking me to make disciples of Patrick. Our challenge is to make disciples of Jesus. This understanding releases us from the pressure of making disciples of ourselves. What good is it to make a disciple of myself? I am not perfect. To teach a disciple to live and act a certain why would make me feel like a hypocrite because I know that I make mistakes. I don't always say or do the right thing. I get angry, am not the perfect husband, am not the perfect pastor. If my goal is to make disciples of Jesus, all I have to do is to point my friends to Jesus. We want to be like Jesus, our converts need to become like Jesus, our church members need to be like Jesus. As we train new beleivers we take them to the Word and show them Jesus who is the example that we all should follow. What am I suggesting here? Just preach Jesus, teach Jesus, point people to Jesus and He will work his purpose in their lives. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Untouchable Loggers

Out in the forrest we found a group of men and women who were cutting trees. I've worked in the tree industry before and I was amazed at what I found here. As you can see in this picture they are using a hand saw to cut this tree. Not a chain saw, a hand saw. This is the only tool they use. I must admit that the saw was quite sharp but wondered what a fellow could do here if he owned a "chain saw"? The untouchables are the outcasts of society but I was very impressed with the attitud of these people. Very upbeat, no depression for feeling like they are being abused or mistreated. We in the west are so blessed.

 

Arranged Wedding

I had the privilege of witnessing how an arranged marriage works in a christian family in India. It was a normal Tuesday at the Ambati house when Raju the oldest son recieved a call from a friend. This friend said that he had a young man (36) studying his masters in divinity that was interested in marrying his sister (Hepsiba age 35). So a meeting was arranged that evening for the two to meet. As Raju was interogating the young man, Hepsiba could only serve drinks to the men. She could not speak to Joseph. The next day was quite tense to see if Joseph was still interested after seeing Hepsiba the previous night. He was up front to let the family know that he was poor and had nothing to offer her. Well, the response was affirmative. Hepsiba also agreed and plans started for the wedding. On Friday night of the same week the ceremony took place. The couple were forbidden to speak to each other only to respond to the minister as he tied the knot. Afterwards, word came to the family from Raju that the house had to be vacated for the honeymooners that night. The whole family slept on mats on the dirt floor of the church just up the street. I was asked to stay a few extra days to share at the reception the following Saturday. It was a joy for me to witness this strange event and also to see in the following days some affection and friendship be established between the two. India is a stange place with still ancient traditions and culture. The people though are so beautiful and in need of a saviour. One billion souls and the vast majority are lost without Christ. The prophet Isaiah wrote, Who will I send, who will go? and he reponded to the call, Here I am send me.

I'm Back!!

It seems like an eternity has passed since my last entry. Wow! how time flys! I'm still trying to get over "jet-lag" even though it doesn't seem to be as bad as previous trips. Also I'm dealing with a stomach thing, soon it will pass and I will be able to enjoy this wonderful south Texas food. OK, we were able to find an arquitect to help with the erection of our childrens home. It will have a capacity of 100 kids and also house some staff and have a guest room. We are excited about this project. The estimated cost will be around $100,000.00 (us) plus furnishings. Construction is pending on getting approval from some village elders and then will commence. We also had a great Encounter for pastors and leaders while there. There were about 80 in attendance and many were blessed and touched by God's love. I am excited about raising this money for the project. Funds have already started to come in. There is no better place to sow financial seen than into the lives of orphans and widows. Babu is eleven and wants to be a doctor. He is already doing algebra in school and has a very intelligent mind. Christi was left by her mother in a movie theater and was told to beg from people when she got hungry. All of these kids really love Jesus and are growing in Gods love. It really is a Joy to Serve Others.

Here we are doing a ground breaking ceremony by putting a Bible into the ground. It symbolizes building the childrens home upon the Word of God. This is Sudheera and her Father placing the bible in the ground.

Sitting somewhere in the Orient

We just got off our 12 hour ride from LA to Tiepei. We have a layover before going on to Singapore and then Chennai, India. Hard to sleep in the middle seat! Especially with my friend Pete roaring like an airplane engine next to me. Never the less at 5am here, whatever that means, I feel alert and awake. I suppose we are about half way there by now, the old Butt is on the sore side already. Will keep you posted, thanks for your prayers.

Off to India

Here we go to India. Friday morning I heard the report givin by Indian official warning Americans in India to lay low because of terrorists threats in the two largest city airports. The last time we landed in Mumbai, spent the night and flew on to Chennai. Mumbai is where the problem might occur on Augest 15th. This trip we are flying directly into Chennai and will miss completly the possible danger areas. It is amazing to see how God leads and directs. Pete and I will be doing an encounter there for about 50 people and we will start working on the childrens home. I want to thank everyone that has helped with donations for this project. This is a very worth while endeavor and we are pleased with the results that we are seen so far. I will be posting pics as the trip moves on. We leave Harlingen Sunday at about 3pm and arrive in Chennai Tuesday at 10pm. It's a long flight to the other side of the world. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Crusade Update

There was more opposition in the preparation of this crusade that any others that we have done. The only large facility available was a large church called the Tabernacle, how many new people do you think would go to a place named that? Not many! The location was another problem being about 6 miles outside of town. For us who drive alot, this doesn't mean much but for people who use public transporation it could be a problem. Some churches refused to cooperate because of the event being in this particular place. But, God is good and He accomplished what He wanted to. There were about 1,700 people in attendance and each night people were born again. There were several testimonies of healing some could be considered miracles. It was great to see people get blessed by Gods presence and bondages leave. One lady was filled with visible tumors, the greatest blessing was to see her countenance change and joy come onto her face. Another lady was delivered from demons as she slithered on the floor like a snake. After it was all said and done, Jesus is Lord. I took a 3 hour ride to the Usumacinta River on the Guatamala border and there ministered to some pastors from my dads ministry. The day I was there three youth, 15,15,16 were murdered during the night. They were thought to be theives or gang members. Here are a couple of pics that you might enjoy seeing.

Palenque Crusade

Will keep you updated on the progress of the crusade. Starts Thursday ends Saturday, will be going to the jungle near the Guatamala border to meet pastors on Sunday. Return on Tuesday.

F.Y.I.

This is information that will inform you about church business. Yes, as much as I detest it, church is a business. Churches have bills to pay, salaries to pay, missionaries to support, poor people to help, countless opportunities to be a blessing to others. Since taking the leadership of this church in 2001, our summers have come and gone very smoothly. We didn't experience the summer slump that so many pastors warned me about. This year has been different. There are so many possibilities as to why this is so, fuel increases, electricity increase, sewage and water went up recently, school supplies, as well as many other hidden factors that people are concerned about. It is possible that people are using their regular church donations to offset these unwelcomed rise in prices, its possible that some people are using donation money to pay for family vacations, it could be that church donations are being used to pay on overspending on credit cards and other interest bearing accounts. This summer has helped me to re-focus on the fact that God is my source. He always has been and always will be. Faith in Him will get the job done. Knowing that God will not fail me, does not remove the responsibility of church members and family from contributing to support their local church and ministries. I just have one question for you, are you spending on yourself that which belongs to God? Something to ponder and think about.

F.O.G.

When my nephew Jake was here a couple of monthes ago, he mentioned the word "fog" and said that it was an acronym for the "Favor of God." Grace is defined as "unmerited favor", something that God give to us that we can't afford or earn. We need to expect the F.O.G. to be working in our lives. For example, a month ago a insect inspector founds termites in our church building. He gave is a quote of a couple thousand dollars to take care of the problem. Pete, our contractor called a man who also has a extirminating business and said that if we could wait a couple of weeks that he was going to do a big job close by and would have some extra chemicals and would take care of us for free. Now that is F.O.G.! I've been getting phone calls from some friends in Mexico telling me that they have seen me on TBN Enlace. Evidently there is advertising about the crusade that covers all of central and south America, Europe, Africa and the middle east. That is F.O.G.! The bible says that Jesus found favor with both God and man. Can you believe that you too have favor with God? and how about with man? If so, expect for both God and man to pass on blessings to you that you can't earn or afford. God desires to bless you simply because He thinks that you are pretty special. God enjoys serving his kids!

Grandkid Invasion

They turn ones ruitine upside down! The noise level increases! Grandkids can be brutal to grandparents! When you mix a 6 yr old boy with a 5 year old girl the results can be dangerous. I survived! Barely, but I made it! It nice for them to come a visit, good to maintain some kind of relationship with them, good to reinforce values in their lives and its wonderful to send them back to mom and dad. It seemed that each one recieved some sort of battle wound, scratches, bruises, owies and of course they would come to grandpa to pray for them. Its nice to be valued by somebody. So I have three of these critters and one more due within the next six weeks. That makes 4! Whats a guy to do? Thank God that He gives grace for these kind of events. I'll enjoy the peace and quiet until we're invaded again! Thanks for your prayers!

I'm proud of my leaders

What America needs is leadership! Children need leadership at home, employlee's need leadership from management, churches need leadership. I have some awesome leaders in my church. Men who are willing to sacrifice their time and lives to reach out to make a difference in the lives of others. Its not easy to be a leader. For some leadership comes natural, others have to make an effort to lead. We need in our churches today men who will lead men. Men who will make an effort to mentor and disciple other men. Men who will impart spiritual gifts and knowledge, men who will lead other men to Christ, men who will be fathers to their children, men who are willing to give of themselves for others. I have some of these men working with me. I am priviledged to work with them. Guys, thanks for all you do, got to luv you all!

Blogging down

I've found myself bogging down on my blog entrys. Actually since I started to blog my devotional journal, I've had less time to think about blogging. It will be wonderful to take possesion of our new school and gym. We will be having a sunday morning service on the 30th there with a pot-luck dinner afterward. Soon the basketball hoops will be hoisted into place and we will be able to enjoy some games and activities.

Our project in India is starting to come together. Funds are coming in to build the security wall around our property there and soon we can begin to build the childrens home. My buddy Pete and I are going to India in August and we will be able to get the project off the ground.

I got a feeling that this crusade in Palenque, Chiapas Mexico just might be the last one that I do. Just a feeling, don't know for sure. I am expected though to see great results in this crusade. God wants so much to save, heal and bless people so I'm looking forward to see what will come about.

As we see the last days approaching, the word tell us "not to forsake the assembling of ourselves as the habit of some is." Why is that in there? Because in the last days, people will become complacent and will find other things to do with their lives that to them are more important than joining together with Gods people for worship, fellowship and spiritual grooming. If you are falling into this trap, make yourself do what is best for your spiritual life and growth. Don't be a slacker, stir up the gift of God that is in you and fulfill Gods plan and purpose for your life.

Its getting interesting!

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

We know by watching the news and reading the newspaper that things are getting interesting in our world. We are seeing an increase of wars and rumours of wars. But don't get bummered out because the end is not yet. It is a good time though to get your house in order. Things can begin to escalate quickly and we don't want to get caught napping, sleeping, caught up in the worlds game. Now is the time to increase the fire, get closer to God, do His will, live for him, make every day count. Soon we will be out of this life and eternity will be here. Are you living for eternity or are you living for yourself in the here and now?

Looking forward

I've been busy of late getting ready for the events coming up this August. On the 3rd - 5th I will be doing a crusade in Palenque, Chiapas Mexico. We are expecting 2-5 thousand people each night to come and listen to Gods Word and to encounter Gods power in their lives. Then on the 13th we will be leaving for India to see the kids in the Childrens home there and begin construction on the new facilities. We also will be doing an Encounter for leaders of the church that we are visiting. Please pray for these events that God will be glorified and His power released to set people free.

Faces of India

This was taken last January at a village I ministered at. I been able to look at the faces of people in many countries. I've seen hopeless, empty eyes, eyes with no future, I've seen the pain and hardship of peoples suffering. I've been blessed to preach the Good News of Jesus Christ to hurting people. Several people in this foto were healed and delivered from impossible situations. God asked the question, "Who will go for me?" The answer came, "Here I am Lord, send me." The need is so great, you and I must go!

It was a lie!

After receiving an alert for rain, just the opposite happened, sun, sun and more sun! Hot and sunny was reality. What should be done to weather men that don't say the truth? Any suggestions?

Soggy Fourth of July

Just got a weather alert in my KGBT personal weather alert email and it says to expect thunderstorms today. I was planning to do some work in my yard maybe plant some shrubs, at least the gound will be a little softer and the clouds will give me a break from the blistering heat. If you life feels like a "bad weather day" and the storm clouds are threatening you, just remember that above the clouds the sun is shining. Storms are only temporary, they threaten and sometimes bring fear, but soon they are past. Hang in there you storm will soon be gone and the sun will shine again.

More puppies on the way

Becky took our shnauzer to the vet to have a ex-ray to see how many she is carrying. The results show 6-7 little creatures in her womb. Wow, that's amazing! We just gave away the last of the labs, looks like soon we will have some AKC registered puppies to sell. By the way, we are now taking orders, first come, first serve! If you mention that you read this announcement from my blog we will give you a blog-readers discount. Hey, sounds like a deal to me!

Something to laugh at

On our way back from visiting friends in Fort Worth, we stopping in San Antonio to visit with our very pregnant daughter Trish. We stopped by the Valero Gas Station and Convience Store where Chris, Trisha's husband works. He was in the back office doing some work when we arrived, a co-worker called for him to come out. As soon as he came into the store area with his staff attending customers, I lifted my voice and said, "Are you the guy that knocked up my daughter?" Trish was standing there very pregnant, he embarassingly said, "not me sir, I wouldn't do that." It was good for a laugh and of course Chris was quite embarrassed. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Worship & Popcorn?

Last week an acquaintance dropped off at my office a DVD called "The sea resounds". It's about a revival that is taking place in the Fiji Islands. If you get the chance, find it and watch it, it will have a profound effect on your life. So, during the preaching time today we watched the DVD. We gave away free popcorn and offered water and soft drinks to all that wanted it. I don't know of many churches that offer popcorn during a worship service, you never know what you will see happen at our church. Next time we will make Giant Pickles available also. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Van sold in Mexico

Remember the van I wrote about a few weeks ago? Well, it has sold in Mexico and I should of made close to a thousand dollars on the transaction for the Childrens home in India. Every little bit helps. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Letter From Bubli, India

Dearest Pat,

How are you doing ? I am doing fine by the grace of the Lord. All of us here and all the children are praying for you everyday. I found a remote village with untouchable people. Those people are very downcast in the society. I found that there are some orphan children too. It would not be possible for us to bring them here to our orphanage so I am planning about visiting them sometimes and share food with them. I also discovered that they are carrying many diseases in them. I talked to the village leader if he would let the orphan children in their village to join our orphanage, but he is not willing. If God helps us, in the future I wish we would go and help the kids there. We may be needed to start a small children's home just for the kids there. Everything else is fine here. Children are going to school. I was very angry with the teachers of the school. The school teachers, on seeing that our children do not have parents, are asking our children to do all the work at school. While other children are playing, our children are working, washing dishes of teachers, supplying water to their bathrooms, etc. I noticed it a few times but I thought they are doing it on schedule basis, I mean, alternatingly, some children work and some children play. But when I learnt that it is mostly our children most of the time, I was very angry with them. The teachers are not very happy with me. I reported this to the headmaster and told that I will take this matter to higher oficials. The children are excited with their new books and new classes. I also bought a net for a swing and they are greatly excited about that. Every now and then when they have a break, they will come and swing in it, counting 25 swings each. I am also thinking of buying a video game. Please continue praying for me. I am praying for you everyday. God Bless You.

In His Service, Bubbles.

Can you see why I am consumed to build a Childrens Home in India?

Chamula Indians

People all over the world need to hear about Jesus. In San Juan Chamula, Chiapas Mexico, people who accept Jesus may pay a high price when they become Christians. This woman is now a widow, her husband was killed for his faith in Jesus. This boy will grow up with out a father. As I travel to remote places I come to understand just how easy it is to be a Christian in America. We experience little if any persecution and normally whine and complain about every insignificant thing. Instead of complaining we should be thankful the Gods' bountiful blessings in our lives.

 

Pray for our soldiers!

This war will not be won by weapons, it will be won by prayer. Please take time to pray for our brave men and women who are in harms way. Pray for our President and his cabinet, pray for the generals that they obtain wisdom to know how to proceed. We ought to be proud of them for serving us so that we can be free!

 

All our kids graduate to next grade!

All of the kids in our childrens home in India have passed onto the next grade. This is a great accomplishment for them. You have to understand that living on the streets, they had no education before coming to us. Now, they all attend public school in the morning and in the afternoon we have a tutor that teaches them. During our last trip to India, we observed the interaction between the kids and the tutor. I was impressed with the desire that the children have to improve themselves and obtain knowledge. This pic might look sad seeing the kids study while sitting on the floor. This room serves as a study room, bed room, play room and living room. At night, bed rolls are laid out and the kids sleep. In the afternoon, they study and learn skits and dance ruitines. We are desiring to build a childrens home for these children as well as for other orphan kids. Thanks for your prayers and support for this project. It is a joy to serv others!

 

My Pet Peeve

Allow me to vent! Why can't people make it to church ontime? We make it to work on time, the airport on time, the football game on time, what is so hard about coming to church on time? I know that God isn't offended by it, but I have taken on His offense. If the President were to come to town, we would arrive early out of repect to him. Why can't we at least be on time when we come into the pressence of the creator of the universe? And what gets my goad more is people that get up and leave the service early. Sometimes I feel like embarrassing them publicly but know that it wouldn't to any good. To me it is disrepectful to God for people to arrive late and leave early. Leave your comment.

Resistence in Palenque

My campaign director told me the other day that there has been more oppoistion to this crusade that we are organizing than any other he has done. The opposition isn't coming from the devil rather than from religous people. It was the religous people that opposed Jesus when he walked this earth. I'm calling my intercessors to pray for a breakthrough in this crusade. It will be August 3,4,5 in Palenque, Chiapas Mexico.

Funny

Who said that Turkeys were stupid?

Random thoughts and news!!

I'm thankful that our ten puppies have been given away. What a relief! We went to the flea-market in Brownsille Saturday and there were people there selling all kinds of muts. The interesting thing was the puppies we gave away were more attractive than the ones being sold. Did I miss an opportunity to make some money for our Childrens home in India. What if I sold them for $50 a piece? That would of come to $500 more to buy materials with. Hmmm, Can I forgive myself for overlooking this or delight in the fact that giving the puppies away brought joy to some peoples lives?

Summer is here again, I love summer! Swimming pools, baseball, the beach are wonderful places to enjoy during summer. I wish for everyone to enjoy this season, relax, and have a great time!

Missions is always close to my heart. My crusade director who is setting up a crusade in August recently told me that there is more resistence to this crusade than with any other that he has organized. We will be in Palenque, Chiapas in August. Help me to pray for this important event.

Feel free to make comments to my blogs, do it anonimously if you want. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Thieves are heartless!!

About 10 days ago some thieves broke into our childrens building and made a big mess! They managed to take a water jug that the children had been collecting some money in. They busted the front door pretty good and did some vandalizing inside. About a week later they entered the front door of the sanctuary and were scared off by our alarm system but did manage to steal a couple of electric guitars and a bass guitar. In proverbs it says that when you find the thief, he must payback seven times. We know who the thief is, and he will pay back! While some find joy in serving others there are some that find joy in stealing from others, go figure!

The curse of Debt

No body likes to be in debt! But debt has become the way of life for many in our nation. Businesses, families and the governments have been built on debt. To become in debt doesn't just happen, it is the result of borrowing. We borrow from the bank, friends and most often our credit cards. Borrowing is a spiritual condition that can be overcome by developing faith in God and His Word.

Here are some causes of borrowing:

Borrowing causes family pressure, violates scripture, puts you in bondage to creditors, demonstrates discontent with the basics of life, weakens our faith in God, gives the illusion of independance, promotes impulsive buying, is the cause of spiritual malnutrition.

I have bible verses to support these claims. Because of our financial debt, we have our hands tied when we want to be a blessing to someone or thing. Debt is the tactic of the enemy to keep God's people from generously supporting valid projects that promote His kingdom. My advice is, stop borrowing and paying interest to your lender. Make a plan to get out of debt, free yourself to be in the position to serve others!

Deal!

If you are wondering, it was a deal! I bought a one way tickey to Raleigh, North Carolina and drove back the mini-van I purchased on E-bay. The seller (Jack) was kind enough to pick me up at the air-port and took me to his home. (Thanks Jack for your awesome hospitality, you really went out of your way treating me so well, may God richly bless you!) After an oil change and radiator flush I was on the road. It was my first time that far east. It really is a beautiful place, it was so nice to see trees again! The van ran like a champ, no problems what soever. It really was a nice ride back home. I spent the night in Mobile, Alabama and then the next day I arrived back home about 7:30pm just in time for our marriage class. Now, I will wait for my friend Eli from Morelia, Mexico to come to take the van down to Mexico to sell with the profit going towards our childrens home in India. I really enjoy serving others!

India Project

Since visiting India in January and spending time with the kids in our childrens home, I have been consumed with the desire to build a home there for them and many others that are in need of food, shelter and love. Progress has been made. So far have bought an acre of land that costs us over $11,000.00 dollars. This is the first miracle. Now, we need to raise $8000.00 for the security wall to put around the compound and then begin to build the home. I thank the Lord for the generosity of my congregation that are standing with me on this. They faithfully give each month to meet the immediate needs of the home (rent, food, clothes, education, medicine, etc....). I am looking outside of the church also for help in this project. How can you help?

1. Pray for the children
2. Send a monthly offering to support a child.
3. If you live in Texas, switch your electricity company to Stream ( pveach.igniteinc.biz)
4. Ask the Lord what you can do to help.

I have made the determination to start and finish this project, I am doing everything that I can to move forward. I realize though that I cannot do it alone. I need a team of people to join me in this project. All I ask is that you procrastinate no longer, decide today to help.

This is Cristi, she is 6 or 7, she was sold by her father. She came to the home and found a new family. She recently told the director that she doesn't ever want to leave, she loves her new home.

This is the land we bought, soon we will start to build. Let's join together to serve others!

Money Cometh!

Since we made the commitment to start the Childrens home in India, God has been faithful to meet the need. This project has challenged me to look for resources outside the church to help build the home. One opportunity that came my way is a bussiness called 'Ignite". Ignite is a marketing company for Stream Energy. We offer people an opportunity to get paid when they turn on their lights. This company is only available for Texans but hopefully soon will become available to others states as well. This is the first Network Marketing business that I have become involved with that has actually produced money. I am just getting started and I am extremely impressed with the financial opportunity at my finger tips. This company has been in existence for about a year and has become one of the fastest growing bussiness in the country. Take a minute to look at my new webpage. pveach.igniteinc.biz If this interests you, get in touch with me and I can help you to helps others. This is just another way to find JOY IN SERVING OTHERS!

It's a Zoo!!

Its a zoo around here, three adult dogs, ten puppies, two adult cats, three new-born kitttens, two birds and more puppies on the way. Now the puppies are getting big enough to eat on their own and soon ready to be given away. It will be nice to return to some sort of sanity.

Living on the edge.....

As you read in my previous blogs, I was almost scammed on ebay. I guess that I am a glutton for punishment coz I went back there and bought a 1996 Ford Winstar minivan from Raleigh, North Carolina. If I can drive it back in one piece then I can be assured that I made a good deal. If it breaks down along the way, then you can let me have it. The idea though is to buy cars in the 1994-1996 range and legalize them, take them into Mexico to sell. If everything works out as planned, I can make a few hundred dollars for the Childrens home in India. I've never been out east before so this will give me a reason to fly out there and bring the vehicle back. Sometimes you have to get out of the boat if you want to walk on the water. If we are always so predictable then life becomes ruitine and boring. Its OK to live on the edge and to take some risks. I'll let you know how it works out, Deal or No Deal! Isn't it a joy to serve others?

My Nephew Jake is coming to town!

Jake, along with my two sons, Robert and Jason are fourth generation preachers on both sides of our family. That means that our family has been involved with ministry for many years now. Becky's grandmother was a pastor with the Church of God and as you know her father was in the ministry. My great uncle was a minister with the Christian Missionary Alliance and was the one that dedicated me to the Lord when I was a baby. Jake just graduated from a bible school in California and is starting his ministry. He will be with us for a few days and will minister in our church on the 28th of May in both the am and pm services. As I approach the middle and later years of my ministry it will be interesting to see how these young ministers grow and what they accomplish for Gods kingdom. Its time to pass on the baton, take the role of a spiritual father and mentor and teach this new generation of beleivers. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

This Job doesn't pay enough!

Have you ever said that? thought that? Am I the only one to think that "this job doesn't pay enough?" I understand why some people who were involved in ministry and somehow mingled back into society to what we would call a "normal" life, just seem to slowly fade away. I wish that in every case I deal with I could have a good outcome. It would be nice to be able to solve every problem and take every hurt and pain away. When hurting people come into my office looking for some relief of the burden and load they carry, the only way that I can help is to point people to Jesus. I can't solve peoples problems but I can point them to the problem solver. I still find myself though trying to help people carry their loads. This job just doesn't pay enough, but what value can you put on the privilege of serving others?

When you feel like God can't use you, Remember -

Abraham was too old
Isaac was a day dreamer
Jacob was a liar
Leah was ugly
Joseph was abused
Moses had a stuttering problem
Gideon was afraid
Samson had long hair and was a womanizer
Rahab was a prostitute
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
David had an affair and was a murderer
Elijah was suicidal
Isaiah preached naked
Jonah ran away from God
Naomi was a widow
Job went bankrupt
Peter denied Christ
The disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha worried about everything
The Samitan woman was divorsed more than once
Zacheus was too small
Paul was too religious
Lazarus was dead.

Now, no more excuses! God can use you to your full potnetial. Besides you aren't the message you are just the messenger!

It's a Scam!

The notice I received that I had a second chance to buy that car is a scam. Its looked like an official document from Ebay but turns out to be false. I wonder how many people are getting hoaxed to send money to these scam artists thinking that it on the up and up? There where two things that gave it away, one they said that they would deliver the car, (hmmmm) and two they wanted me to send money by western union to the United Kingdom. Why would I send money to the United Kingdom to purchase a car from Forth Worth? I guess that these are Phishers, people phishing for information from people to eventually steal their identity. Be careful, there are lots of nasty people out there, they have no desire to serve others!

I Won! I think??

I just received a notice from Ebay that the winner of a car that I bid on defaulted and since I had the second highest bid, I win. The car I bid on was a 1995 Volkswagen Jetta. Now I have to figure out how to pay for it and bring it down from Forth Worth. After that, the car will be taken to the Mexican border to get legalized and my friend Eli will come up from Morelia to take the car back to Morelia to sell. The idea is to sell it for a profit and then try to find another deal and make another buck. I will keep you posted on my progress, if you feel like it, please pray for this to succeed. Isn't it a Joy to serve others?

Ebay Auction

The last time that I was in Morelia, MX visiting my pastor friend, we started a business. Older model cars from the states (94-96) can be imported by Mexico. So people come up from the interior of Mexico to look for used cars to take back. My job is to find good used cars or minivans that we might be able to sell there. There are lots of opportunities on Ebay, sounds easy enough. Just be the high bidder and the car is yours. Hmmm, well I found two cars to bid on, began the process and at the last minute someone out bid me and I lost the opportunity. How hard can it be to win an auction on Ebay? Oh, by the way, the profit that I make in this venture is going to help build the Childrens home in India. If I were to buy and sell about 30 cars, I could pretty much build that home. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Mothers Day!

May the 10th, mothers day. Its sad to admit but moms are under rated. I've observed mothers in different countries of the world and the most of them really have a hard life. In the mountains of Chiapas they are seen carrying heavy loads of wood on their heads walking up a steep mountain road. In India, they are seen carrying jugs of water on their heads for a long distant. Some mothers are seen washing clothes at the river bank on rocks. They work relentlessly from dawn to dusk cleaning, cooking, washing clothes, shopping at the market, and probably the most difficult is taking care of the kids 24/7. Moms are under appreciated. Moms are expected to sacrifice, serve, give of themselves, solve problems, be everything to everyone. I think that 1 Corintians 13 describe moms; let me change one word to make my point. Mom is patient, mom is kind and is not jealous; mom does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; she does not seek her own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices in the truth; she bears all things, beleives all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Mom never fails!! This scripture describes my mom. She was always willing to do without so that us kids always had what we needed. She gave us wisdom, advise, prayers, guidance, discipline and pointed us to Jesus to help us. She interceeded and prayed for God to protect and keep us. We have become what we are mostly by the loving life and prayers of Mom. Thanks for beleiving in me, thanks for everything, I love you!!

Puppies

Jason, our son, was given a purebred female Chocolate Lab a few months ago. She is a nice docile dog but has helped to literally destroy my manicured yard. She came into heat a few months ago and we were very careful to keep her away from any male dog in the area. Well our efforts were in vain as she ended up pregnant. It must of happened when we left town for a couple of days and left her (Dulce) in the care of relatives. Now we have 10, yes 10 puppies. They are not purebred but some mixed breed. Its hard to tell what they might look like when they are older but now they are cute little puppies. We'll have puppies to give away in a few weeks or if you want to purchase one that will be up to you. Any donation will go to help build the orphanage in India. At this point I just want to find homes for these criters and make sure they have someone to care for them. Contact Becky if interested. Oh, its first come, first serve. Isn't it a joy to serve others!

A day without Mexicans (Un dia sin Mexicanos)

If you haven't seen the movie, go rent it. It is good for a laugh. Our modern dilema with thousands of undocumented workers also known as illegals, are invading our country. In my opening comments at the healing conference in Morelia, Mexico, I let the people know that I was in their country legally. I had my docuyments in order and could legally do the work of a religious leader in their country. Thats all I ask of our undocumented friends, come into our country legally. Our country is a country of laws, it seems as though the illegals want to reap the reward of amnesty but are snubbing their noses at our laws. It would be a big diservice to grant these illegals amnesty. What would be the message that we send our children? The law doesn't matter as long as there is money to be made? I suggest that on Monday when the illegals and their symphasizers are boycotting merchants and everything "made in the USA" that the rest of us empty our savings to support the economy. Walmart and Burger King have nothing to do with making the laws, why should they suffer at the whims of people who are breaking our laws. I would support the United Stated Border Patrol to take their buses to the protests rallies and enforce the laws on the books. Why sit by and watch them curse the land that promises them prosperity. Load em up and ship em out. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Healings in Morelia, Mexico

I am in an internet cafe here in Morelia sharing what God did last night in our healing conference. First of all, about 75 people accepted Jesus into their lives. Thats totally awesome! Then when general prayer was made for the people for healing, many testified about pain and symtoms leaving their bodies. It´s always amazing to me to see people being touched by Gods love and power. Today we go to a ranch and later this evening we have another conference at the church. Working on the mission field is so much more fruitful than having to deal with the god of materialism and the religous spirits of the US. It always amazes me how much people in foreign lands honor and respect the gifts and callings on my life in comparison to the US where people are so used to these carismas and mostly take them for granted. Coming home soon and looking forward to the next missions adventure in July where we will do a Crusade in Palenque Mexico and then in Cancun. Is´nt it a joy to serve others!

Thanks

Thanks Cristina and Dee for your comments. It's nice to know that somebody checks in from time to time. Abe is encouraging me to write more often, I'll see what I can do. So Fred, Dee says that she cuts and pastes my blog to send to you. I want you to know that you are frequently in my prayers as well as your family. Keep up the good work out there my friend, I know that you are letting your light shine and touching lives there.
At our leaders meeting tonight we read in Isaiah 60:1-5 "Arise, shine for your light has come, And the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness will cover the earth, and deep darkness the peoples, but the Lord will rise upon you. And nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising, lift up your eyes round about and see; they all gather together, they come to you. Your sons will come from afar, and your daughters will be carried in the arms. Then you will see and be radiant and yoiur heart will thrill and rejoice." Just take a few minutess and meditate on this and let the Holy Spirit speak to your heart. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

I wonder if anybody reads this??

Hmmmm, I know that there are a few people that check in to read my blod from time to time. But sometimes I wonder if anybody reads this blog? I'll keep blogging, its good therapy for me, gives me an outlet and an opportunity for folks to see a different side to me. This week I will be traveling to Morelia Michoacan to visit my friend Eli and there we will be doing a Healing and Miracle Seminar. We are scheduling two large crusades this summer. One in Palenque Chiapas and the other in Cancun. Well Jesus did say to go into ALL the world. Go figure! Our Project in India is going forward, we soon will be building the security wall around it. Pray with us for the $7,800 to get this part finished. I want you to remember something, God thinks that you are pretty neat and He is proud of you. No matter what to do or don't do, He is still proud of you simply because you are His special child. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Attention TX Residents

Show people, just like you, how to make money and save on their electric bills. Would you like to have more seed to sow to the Childrens home in India? I have a new webpage with all the information, check it out!

pveach.igniteinc.biz

Orphans Reach Out!

These children are performing an Easter play at the village branch church in Chirala, India. They are bold in their performance and obviously not ashamed of Jesus Christ. Please pray for Usha, she has TB as well as the other kids. We recently purchased a acre of land and will be building the security wall around the property soon. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Grand kids

A sign that you are getting old is the fact that little critters start showing up called Grand-kids. When the first one arrived over 6 years ago I had an internal struggle. In my mind, grand parents are old. I saw that the next major event in my life would be having to use a cane or a wheel chair. Old age is inevitable, it chases us all. Now I have three critters with a fourth one on the way. I do enjoy seeing them from time to time, an ocassional visit is acceptable. The amazing thing about grandkids is that their parents are the kids we raised. I'm proud of my kids, they have stepped up to the plate of responsibilty and have not backed away. Robert has two kids, he is a good daddy. He goes to work everyday, is a good provider, loves his wife and kids. I am proud if him. He really has been blessed by the Lord with a great family. Patricia is a mom of a three year old pretty girl and the soon to be mom of a new born. Trish works part time, goes to school and takes care of her hubby. She is a real tropper! Her and Chris are doing a good job as parents and at life in general. Today at our easter dinner, Dylan (critter number one) took great pleasure in smashing confetti eggs on my head. What he doesn't know is that Grandpa has a long memory and pay-back is sweet. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

India Update

Just recieved word from our Friends in India that the land purchase has just been completed. It so happens that another parcel of land, 1.84 acres has just become available. This land is adjacent to the acre we just purchased. The asking price is $18,500.00 US. It would be nice to have this property as well to have an impressive compound and childrens home. With God all things are possible. I appreciate all of you who have taken this project to heart and are supporting it with your prayers and suuport. Soon Construction will begin on the security wall around our property. We are on our way to see this vision fulfilled!

I am blessed!!

It's hard to beleive that our daughter Patricia is having her 24th birthday this week. Wow! Where has time gone? You can tell who she was named after, right? We were so happy to bring her home to us. In fact she was such a blessing that imediately following her birth I found a Urologist in Irapuato where we were living and I got a vasectomy. NO MORE KIDS!! Praise God! With all kidding aside Patricia has been daddys' little girl until some punk kid swept her off her feet and took her to San Antonio. Oh well, such is life. I am blessed though, just the other night Patricia called and said that she just wanted to let me know that she loved me. Hmmm, there not much else that can melt a dads heart than to hear those words. As I look back over my years of fatherhood, its so easy to focus on the mistakes that I made. To me its a miracle that Patricia has turned out so well. She is an excellent daughter, wonderful wife (right Cristopher?) and I'm sure that she will be a wonderful mother of her expected child. Do you think that she might return the favor and name her new born child Patrick? Just a thought! I heard someone say that when we raise our kids we are actually raising our grandchildrens parents. Think about that! Isn't it a joy to serve others?

In India, time stands still

One of the first lessons I learned while in India is that there are no watches. We americans are known for being punctual, on time, never late (except when we go to church) and always on the run. Raju, our host in India told me (jokingly) that "here there are no watches". It seemed like the common answer to "when are we leaving?" was 5 minutes. Everything is five minutes. I'll be back in five minutes, please just five more minutes, we will be there in five minutes. I finally realized after 10 minutes or 15 minutes had passed that the "5 minutes" was just a figure of speach. I soon began to joke about the "5 minutes" took my watch off and just relaxed and went with the flow. Our out door crusades were to start at 7 pm. Rarely did we get going until 8 or 9 pm. What a way to live! Life without time! Just in case you are wondering, flights at the airport were leaving "on time". It looked like the train left "on time", church in India, like in america started on time, but the people arrived late. Having experienced the "no watch" concept, I decided that watches are good, being punctual is good, if you need a reason why I think this way, just look at the confusion and poverty that they live in. It doesn't take a genious to figure out that watches were made for a purpose. Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Tribute to Dad

I have been blessed to have a Father. In todays society many fathers have gone "missing in action". Thats not my case. From my earliest memories my dad has been there. I learned some important lessons in life by watching "his life". My dad is a "mans man". A hard worker, honest, sincere, lover of God, generous, helpful and an example to follow. I don't recall ever seeing him take a "sick day" or trying to sluff off on the job. He always gave his employer a better than an honest days worth of work. I wonder how he learned how to be a good dad? His father (my grand father) died when my dad was a young lad. My dad had to be the man of the house from an early age. My dad didn't have an example to follow or a mentor to guide and advise. How did he succeed in father hood? If half of the fathers today do half of what my dad did for his family, society would be different today. Sometimes we take our parents for granted, I don't. I'm thankful that as a child growing up, my dad was there for me. Took me fishing, hunting, swimming, family vacations, showed me what a father is supposed to do. Thanks DAD for everything, I love you!

Home alone

Wow, what am I going to do with myself for a couple of days? Becky is going to a Women of Faith Conference in Houston, Jason is going to Mexico City, looks like I'm stuck at home with the dogs! Thinking about it for a moment, I don't think it will be all that bad. I can use a little alone time, some time to meditate and think without having to do the "honey do's". I know the routine anyway, wash clothes, sweep and mop, do the dishes, take the trash out, feed the birds. Hmmmm, sounds like my alone time is already being filled with chores. I will go Friday to a house warming up in Mcallen, eat a little Bar-b-que, fellowship with the folks, sounds like fun to me. Where I really get to be alone by myself is on a foreign trip. I really enjoy that. Some of you might already know this, I really am a loner. I like to be by myself, left alone. Why the Lord put me in public ministry is a wonder to me! Isn't it a joy to serve others?

Sizzling Hot!

I've been teaching on the Book of Song of Solomon in our church. It's a love story between King Solomon and the Shunamite woman. It's symbolic of Jesus and our relationship with him as beleivers. She says, "Oh let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth for your love is better than wine." This is a great desire for her to be intimate with him. To be kissed, to be connected to, to be fastened together with Him. You know that when a man kisses a woman in a passionate way, the body gets turned on. The old body heats up and begins to feel the urge and desire for fulfillment. When we get connected with Jesus in that way, we too will be passionate about him. We will fall in-love with him, He will become more than just an aquaintance but will be the lover of our soul. Has your love with the Lord grown cold? When was the last time that you and He had a lip lock (kiss) and felt sizzling hot in your relationship with Him? He is longing to re-ignite his love with you. Isn't it a joy to serve others!

Is it possible?

Is it posible for God to have a good outlook and positive future in mind for our lives? How can we be sure that God's destiny for us is good? What about the "Job" experience? Will I have to lose everything? There is a verse that answers this question, Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." We can rest and be at peace knowing that God is not out to kill us or destroy us. He has good desires for you, wants to bless you and bring you into his place of purpose and destiny. Just trust Him, He knows best! Isn't a joy to serve others?

We will miss Imelda!

How can a small town pastor compete with the big city famous Icon named Joel Osteen? The answer is obvious, I can't. Imelda our fearless and competent secretary is leaving small town Harlingen to big town Houston this week. Her new pastor will be Joel Osteen. Imelda has been a part of our church family for many years. She has been an inspiration to all of us. She has grown into an awesome leader and has fined tuned some of her spiritual gifts. She has touched more lives that you can shake a stick at, and has been a great secretary and church member. She has a great ability to communcate both verbally and by text she will be greatly missed by all. Finding a body to replace her is not a big problem, but replacing Her is impossible. My loss is pastor Joels gain. Not only does he have good looks but now he also has my secretary! Some guys get all the brakes! Isn't it a joy to serve others?

India Childrens Home Fundraiser

It is always a challenge to raise funds for mission projects. I'm not one to just sit around and wait for something to happen, I have something inside that makes things happen whether good or bad. So, I contacted a friend that has a home business and signed up. I figured that anything I make off this I'll sow into the childrens home. Check out my web page, look at the products, if you find something you like, let me know and I will gift it to you and give you a membership for free. www.trivita.com/11684521

Oh NOOOOOO!!

Most members assume that the pastor doesn't have to face the same stuff that the rest of the people face. And if he does, well, he's the pastor, he can handle it. I've heard of pastors walking off of their platforms never to return to face their world again. A pastor is on call 24/7, deals with life and death situations, tries to encourage depressed people in impossible situations. Yet he always expected to be upbeat, isn't allowed to have a "bad day", is expected to be the example for others to follow without making any mistakes. I can understand why pastors burn fuses, go over the edge, and fail in peoples eyes. The apostle Paul tells us of some of his afflictions and trials. In 1 Corinthians 11:23-28 he tells of his beatings, imprisonments, danger of death, in danger of robbers, sleepless nights among other things. Then he says something amazing in verse 28. "Apart from such external things, there is the daily pressure upon me of concern for the churches." He is saying that the pressure and care for the church is more difficult to deal with than all of the external sufferings that he had to deal with. I'm not asking for sympathy here, but just take into consideration that pastors are human, we eat, put on our trousers and shit just like everybody else. Allow us the same grace for change and growth that others are given. Be patient with us and give us a brake like you do with others. The pressure that Paul talks about is real, more real than what the normal church member will ever have to face. Philippians 2:13 says "for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." Isn't it a joy to serve others!

Kristi Arrives

As soon as I can I will post a pic of our newest member of the family, Kristi. She is six or seven, not quite sure, she doesn't know her birthday. If I have the story strait, she was with her father who was a begger on the train system in India. One day he decided to sell his girl to a family. He sold her and just left! She excaped from them and began to beg on the streets for food, shelter anything to survive. One day she came across the childrens home and saw the kids playing, laughing and having a good time. She pleaded with the directors to let her stay too. How can you say no? The problem is that there is no more room, not even for a mat to be rolled out on the floor. She is sleeping outside under the porch and is eating meals with the rest of the kids. We hopefully will be able to rent soon another house and move the boys there. This will give us more room for more children. We send money to buy an acre of land and soon to build a childrens home there. Please pray for the childrens home. Isn't it a joy to serve others!

In-Law Invasion

For years when we lived in Mexico as missionaries we saw very little of our family back home. Every once in a while our parents would come to visit or on an ocassional trip up north we would be able to spend some time with family. It was hard for our kids to grow up without seeing grandparents. It was hard for us to be absent from family over a long period of time. For the past three years though Becky's parents have become "winter texans" and have spent the winter months with us. It has been so good for Becky and our kids to spend quality time with them. Since returning to the Valley some years ago we have had more access to my parents because of their ministry close by. There is a price to pay when we follow Christ. Many people don't answer the call to serve because of the ties they have with family. Jesus had to deal with the same issue. When he was teaching one day some folks interupted him and said that his family was outside wanting to see him. Jesus answered and said, "who is my family, but he that does the will of God." We have found that since we were willing to give up family in obedience to Gods call that we have inherited a much larger family abroad. We have so many brothers and sisters in foreign lands that gives us joy in knowing that lives have been changed through our willingness to go. The in-laws have sold the home here and are moving up north. We will miss them deeply. They have loved us and continue to accept us with all our weaknesses and flaws. I guess that is why family is so important to have around. Everybody needs to be loved unconditionally.

I hate the Devil!

I was chatting with Hepsiba, she is the lady caring for the children in our childrens home in India, and she told me that Usha (picture on left)has been diagnosed with TB. I knew that when we took these kids off the streets of Chirala that there might be some serious obstacles to overcome. When I heard this news today, I got angry at the devil. He is the author of sickness and desease. I'm angry coz Usha is the sweetest girl that you would ever meet. She is beautiful and is in love with Jesus. I need to ask all of my blogger friends to take this need in prayer to Jesus. He alone can heal and deliver her. Please pray for her as if she was your own child. She has no mother or father or sibling to comfort her. I hate the devil, he attacks the weak and helpless. He is ruthless! and a coward! He is as a lion going about seeking whom he may devour. He preys upon the needy and hopeless. But Jesus, He came to destroy the works of the devil. Please agree with me in this prayer: Satan, take your hands off Usha now is Jesus name. You cannot have her. Loose her and let her go. Touch her Jesus with your nail pierced hand. In Jesus name, amen. Jesus came to serve others!

Don't lose your Joy!

It Amazes me how much effect people have on our attitude and joy level. If you listen for 2 minutes to someone who is depressed, you start to feel the same way. Depression and bad attitudes are contagious! And we allow other peoples emotions to determine how our day is going to be. Paul and Silas had a great opportunity to lose their joy. They cast a demon out of a lady and as a consequence got thrown into jail. It was a complete injustice to them. They had every right to murmur, complain and get angry with God. They had every right to ask the "why is this happening to me" question. But they didn't allow their circumstances to determine their attitude. At midnight they began to sing songs of praise to God. Don't allow your circumstances or other people determine your joy level. Your attitude is one thing in life that you have some control over. You can't control other peoples attitudes but you can control your own. You can have a good presence about yourself even when all around you are mad at the world, God and George W. Bush. Get in the presence of God and let that determine how your day is going to be. Isn't is a joy to serve others?

Dear Bloggers

Hello again my blogger friends. I appreciate you dropping by to read my thoughts. I thank those of you who leave a comment or send me an email telling me that you read occasionally. We just returned from an awesome Conference in Baton Rouge, Lousiana. We were challenged by some tremendous speakers from Columbia, Brazil, Germany, England and the US on how to be fruitful and effective in serving others. One friend that went with us was healed of a birth deffect in his ear and was able to hear for the first time in 42 years from that one ear.

If you are looking for work, there is lots of it available in Lousiana. Katrina has created a huge job market in this area. It was hard to find restaurants open or with the proper staff to take care of customers. Traffic was a mess! Its nice to be back home again.

Our staff in India are excited about soon seeing a childrens home built. I've learned that faith requires action. To step out and trust that the Lord will come through and meet the need. Some of the kids have the measles. Fun! The doctor came and gave them a shot. So using some medicine and the power of prayer they soon will be back to normal.

Thanks again for dropping by, isn't it a joy to serve others?

Believe it or not!

God is a totally awesome God! He is a miracle worker and honors faith. I want my blog readers to be the first to know about what God is doing for our childrens home in India. I showed you a picture of some land that we want to buy so that we can build our childrens home there. Just this morning we recieved a donation for $10,000.00 to go towards this property! Wow! Recently I was informed that the children had gone to the property to pray and ask God for it. When I heard that, I knew that a miracle was in the works. God had to respond to the prayers of those children. In the near future I will be able to post pictures showing the progress of this project. Believe it or not, its beginning to become reality. Isn't a joy to serve others?