Sixty Years Apart

          Two important events 60 years apart came together last week in an event which we will never forget.  It's amazing how the Lord controls these things.

          SIXTY YEARS AGO - My wife's parents insisted that she buy an expensive set of Lifetime Stainless Steel Cookware that her uncle sold.  At the time she was working in a bank and had no thoughts of getting married, but her parents thought it would be a good investment for her.  So she bought it, stored it and didn't use it until a few years later when we got married and began housekeeping.

          The set did have a lifetime guarantee and a few times over the years the company did replace, without charge, some pieces that turned out to be defective.  These items were very high quality and we used them hard over the years.  Today a new eight piece starter set would cost about $1,200.  Her original set was a much larger set.

          NOW JUMP AHEAD 60 YEARS TO A WEEK AGO - I was having some dental problems and I called our new dentist about 10:45.  I knew they closed at noon but I thought maybe I could at least get an appointment for the following week.  I was surprised when they said if you can get here in 15 minutes we can see you today.  Now that was a challenge because we were at least 15 minutes away and faced the prospect of heavy Friday traffic to get there.  But I said that I'd be there.

          I called my wife and said that we must leave immediately.  She is doing most of our driving now.  So we ran to our car and made it to the dentist just  in time.  Unfortunately they found more problems than I had ever had during my life.  About an hour later we were on our way home with more appointments scheduled.

         We were about four miles from home when my wife suddenly remembered that she had placed eggs in a pan to hard boil them.  Because we left in such a hurry we had forgotten to turn off the stove.  We rushed the remaining distance not sure what we would find after almost two hours on the stove.

          We rushed to the front door and when I opened it we heard the smoke alarm ringing and we were greeted with clouds of white smoke.  It was so thick that I had trouble seeing to get to the kitchen.  But I was able to remove the pot, turn the stove off and take the pot outside.  Fortunately there were no flames yet, just loads of white smoke.

          We opened windows and used fans.  The smoke slowly disappeared but a terrible smell remained.  We finally realized that we needed professional help.  The first company we contacted never responded.  The second responded and that evening they came and installed a large fan to clean the air and a deodorizer.

         The next day I had several concerns and questions about their equipment and tried to contact them.  It took five hours until I finally reached somebody who came out to check the equipment.  He added another air cleaner and replaced the deodorizer which apparently was defective.  So this equipment then ran until Tuesday.  It was very loud but took care of much of the smell.

          On Wednesday it was decided that we needed a cleaning crew and they sent us two technicians to begin working on cabinets, walls, rugs, etc.  Time will tell how effective their work was.  But thankfully we still have our house.

          NOW HOW DO THESE TWO EVENTS CONNECT?   Along the way we decided to try and replace the ruined pan.  We found a Lfetime dealer who told us that a replacement pan would cost $150.  However, he had a used one that he would sell for $50.  We said that we would take it.  He added that he was to be in the Lancaster area on Monday and would drop by to give it to us.

          He came and when he looked at our damaged pan he told us that we were very fortunate to have used the Lifetime pan because of the way it was manufactured.  He said that any other pan would have actually caught fire and we would have probably lost our house.  Amazing!  

          So we thank my wife's parents for making her buy this set of cookware.  We thank Lifetime for making such a durable product.  But most of all we thank the Lord for protecting us and arranging for our protection years before we knew that we would even need it.  God is so good!

          Now time will tell the final outcome.  Will  they be able to clean it enough?  Will we have any longtime effects from living here and breathing this smoke?  We don't know but we trust the Lord to keep caring for us.  Please pray with us about this.

          FRIDAY UPDATE - We have been working with the restoration company for the past week.  For four days they ran three pieces of equipment to try and clean and deodorize the air.  Then two workers completely cleaned our kitchen - counters, cabinets, doors and walls.  They decided that we had to replace our microwave because of smoke damage.  Thankfully, despite the severe shortage of appliances, the Lord led us to a dealer who had exactly what we needed in stock and can install it for us on Thursday.  Unless you’ve had to replace an appliance recently you probably don’t know what an answer to prayer this is.  Others wanted a month to install a microwave with fewer features.  Now they will have a company come to clean our curtains and drapes in our living room, dining room and den.  Hopefully that will eliminate much of the remaining smell.  Carpet cleaning is still a possibility. 

         Personally we are also dealing with some physical challenges which haven’t been helped by our stress and anxiety.  But again,  thankfully our house did not burn down.  We will appreciate your prayers!

(1)  I trust in God wherever I may be,

Upon the land or on the rolling sea,

For, come what may, from day to day,

My heav'nly Father watches over me.

I trust in God, I know He cares for me,

On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;

Tho' billows roll, He keeps my soul,

My heavn'ly Father watches over me.

(2)  He makes the rose an object of His care,

He guides the eagle thru the pathless air,

And surely He remembers me,

My heav'nly Father watches over me.

I trust in God, I know He cares for me,

On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;

Tho' billows roll, He keeps my soul,

My heavn'ly Father watches over me.

(3)  I trust in God, for in the the lion's den,

On battlefield, or in the prison pen,

Thru praise or blame, thru flood or flame,

My heav'nly Father watches over me.

I trust in God, I know He cares for me,

On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;

Tho' billows roll, He keeps my soul,

My heavn'ly Father watches over me.

(4)  The valley may be dark, the shadows deep

But O, The Shepherd guards His lonely sheep;

And thru the gloom, He'll lead me home

My heav'nly Father watches over me.

I trust in God, I know He cares for me,

On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;

Tho' billows roll, He keeps my soul,

My heavn'ly Father watches over me.

The Battle is the Lord's

        Recently I have been reading in the Bible's books of history and it has been very interesting.  So many of the kings turned away from serving the Lord despite their knowledge of how the Lord had blessed them in the past when former kings had served the Lord. And they endured much pain and sorrow as a result. Unfortunately that sounds too much like what is happening in our country today as we continue to leave the Lord's ways. 

          But there were some kings who did serve the Lord.  They tore down the false idols and led the people back to the Lord. And then the Lord blessed them once again.  One of those good kings was Jehoshaphat, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 17-20.

          A story that spoke to me concerned his battle with the armies of several countries which had merged to attack him.  The scripture says that he was terrified when he received the news and he begged the Lord for guidance.  He then ordered everyone in Judah to fast. They did that and came to Jerusalem to seek the Lord's help.

          Jehoshaphat then stood before the people and prayed a powerful prayer asking the Lord to save them and rescue them.  He shared how they were powerless against the mighty army that was about to attack them.  He said they did not know what to do and were looking to the Lord for help.

          The response that they received from the Lord was to not be afraid or discouraged for the battle was not theirs, but God's.  They would not even need to fight.  They were told to take their position, stand still and watch the Lord's victory.

          Early the next morning the army of Judah went out to get in position.  Then the king told them to believe in the Lord and stand firm.  He told the singers to walk ahead of the army and sing to the Lord and praise His holy splendor. They sang "Give thanks to the Lord for His faithfulness endures forever!"

          At the very moment they began to sing and give praise the Lord caused the opposing armies to start fighting among themselves.  And when Judah's army arrived at the sight of the battle they saw all of the opposing soldiers dead on the ground.  Not a single one of the enemy had escaped.

          What a marvelous and amazing victory!

         Now as I read that account I couldn't help but think of the battle we are facing today against a mighty, deadly opponent, Covid19.  There seems to be no hope for a victory and there is nothing we can do to gain a victory except to trust the Lord and seek His help.  Our country may not do this but we certainly can.

         But maybe instead of just asking for His help to save and rescue us, we need to do what the army of Judah had done - start by singing and praising the Lord.  I wonder how much I have been doing to live a thankful life before the Lord during this pandemic.  I tend to worry and complain about the situation rather than giving the Lord praise and living a thankful life.  Maybe I've had it all backwards.  What about you?

          So my personal challenge is to spend more time being thankful and praising the Lord for His provision, rather than begging for His help  He has protected us and has provided all that we have needed.  What a wonderful Lord who has protected His children for many centuries.  Praise His name!

          And the battle is His and not mine.  That is a challenge that Jehoshaphat has provided for me. 

Challenges for Teachers (LB)

LOOKING BACK - Repeating and editing a blog that I first published on February 22, 2011

          Did you read about the teacher from suburban Philadelphia who was suspended for her blog in which she called her students "disengaged, lazy whiners"?  She is fighting to keep her job because of her blog and it will be interesting to see what happens, especially since this blog was written on her time, not the school's. 

         Now let me say up front that she probably showed very poor judgment in sharing her thoughts publicly and if things are really that bad, she should quit and find a job elsewhere. That being said, I must admit that she had the courage to say what many many teachers would really like to say. 

         She wrote "My students are out of control. They are rude, disengaged, lazy whiners. They curse, discuss drugs, talk back, argue for grades, complain about everything, fancy themselves entitled to whatever they desire, and are generally annoying." Now I know that all students and classrooms are not like that. But, unfortunately, too many are. 

         Some of the comments that she wished she could put on student evaluations were interesting, such as "I hear the trash company is hiring". I think many teachers would like to have the courage to say that to a few of their students. It is sad that the trash company may be all that some students have in their future. 

          I also read "I called out sick a couple of days just to avoid your son."  Now thankfully that thought never crossed my mind, but I know it did to some teachers that I taught with. And how about "Just as bad as his sibling. Don't you know how to raise kids?" Now there is one that I sometimes thought of but never had the courage to say. 

          The biggest change that I experienced over 39 years was the difference in parents. Besides the fact that in recent years many students only had one parent, it was obvious that many had no parenting skills or common sense. They would defend their child even when the child was obviously at fault. They pampered their children and never said "no". They gave them everything they wanted without making them work for it. I think in many cases they were just plain scared of their kids. 

          Parents have become more demanding on teachers and schools to raise their kids for them and less demanding on their own children. Unfortunately I sometimes even found this to be true with Christian parents. It is easy to blame the schools and teachers for one's failures. It didn't used to be that way and it still isn't in many cultures, such as in Korean families. 

         Well I don't know what happened to this teacher who said publicly what many teachers would like to say. And while I can't support what she has done, I can understand the circumstances that drove her to write what she has written. 

          I seldom had serious problems during my years in the classroom and I often still miss the students. I was very fortunate.  But as I view what is happening, I am glad that I am now retired.  And today many teachers will need to face these attitudes, but also the threat of Covid19.  What a challenge!

Isolation of the Elderly

          Recently somebody forwarded to me an excellent article from Breakpoint Daily produced by the Colson Center.  It was written by John Stone Street with Maria Baer.  It highlighted some difficult but important issues that we should consider.  For that reason I am sharing it here.  
           But before I share the article, I actually prepared this blog before the real impact of the pandemic when isolation became a real issue for all of us.  It has especially been hard on seniors isolated in nursing homes where nobody may visit them.  Many seniors have died in hospitals without any family members allowed to be with them.  This is so very sad.

          My family doctor recently told me that one of his most difficult challenges for him during these times has been dealing with his elderly patients who are living alone.  He is about the only person from outside their facility that they get to see at this time and they are so lonely.  Again, so sad.
          And the long isolation has affected more of us, not only the elderly.  I long to be with my family again and especially with my grandchildren.  I miss our friends from church.  But the choice is simple, especially when you are a senior.  Keep isolated or risk catching the virus and possibly death.  So the article below has new meaning today.

          "A couple of years ago, I came across a strange story out of Japan in Bloomberg Business Week. Dozens of elderly women, it turned out, admitted to crimes of petty theft in the hopes of going to prison. "There are always people around," one of the inmates told a reporter, "and I don't feel lonely here."

          I remembered this heartbreaking story a few weeks ago when The Atlantic published David Brooks' latest piece about the nuclear family. Brooks argued that the nuclear family as we define it now, with mom, dad, and kids often isolated from extended family, was not the norm for most of human history. Our fragmenting into smaller and smaller, and ever more isolated, family units has hurt us, he said.

         Much of Brooks' piece, as well as the significant volume of responses it triggered, focused on the challenges of raising children without extended families. Unmentioned, but just as much at stake, is what the elderly population has to lose in these new modern arrangements.

          After all, it is one of the largest generations in modern American history, the baby boomers, that make up today's elderly. With far more boomers than there are Generation X-ers, the math just isn't working out. Who will care for them?

          The lack of a clear answer to that question explains a whole range of strange and heartbreaking stories like the thieving grandmas in Japan, or the increasing number elderly people who die alone at home and aren't discovered for days or even weeks, or tech companies betting on a profitable opportunity in artificial intelligence that can keep the elderly company.

          According to the last census, nearly 11 million Americans over 65 live alone. Another California study found that 43% of all seniors surveyed suffered from loneliness, whether or not they lived alone. Loneliness is especially hard on seniors.

          A seven-year UK study found that "the lack of social contact leads to an early death, regardless of participants' underlying health issues" because loneliness is linked to things such as "high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, a weakened immune system, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's disease."

          Still, our loneliness epidemic is even more a cultural problem than a math problem. After all, the generation whose parents are now aging came of age themselves in the Roe v. Wade era. We'll have to come to terms with what legally treating inconvenient lives as disposable will do to our cultural consciousness. Beyond the taking of innocent life, legalized, monetized, and popularized abortion kills a culture's sense of what life is even for.

          Inevitably, life post-Roe is too often evaluated, not in terms of its own dignity, but in terms of some sort of self-satisfaction bottom line. It's not hard to see where that slippery slope leads. Suddenly, we're toying with genocide against babies with Down Syndrome. Suddenly, we're exploring assisted suicide and euthanasia not only for the sick, but also the uncomfortable or the depressed.

         The criteria for so-called acceptable or even desirable death grows thin. It's that world, that culture, that group of people that is forced to deal with a growing number of isolated elderly.

          All of us grow less autonomous and more needy with age. Words like "inconvenient" and "burden," words used for decades to justify legalized abortion, are now being used for others. As Chuck Colson warned, a worldview that says we weren't made on purpose but happened by accident ends with the conclusion that life isn't beautiful anymore. Rather, it's a numbers game that favors the strongest and the wealthiest.

          The body of Christ has what the larger world needs if it to find a way to care for its aging population: the knowledge that all life is beautiful and valuable, even if it's vulnerable. We'll have to say that over and over, and we'll have to live it too: There shouldn't be a nursing home in the country not flooded with Christian neighbors during visiting hours.

          On that foundation, we can develop plans for our aging parents that hold them as integral members of our families, not distant obligations. We must innovate ever better palliative care, and the Church must become the leading place in our world where multi-generational relationships are both fostered and celebrated.

          Our kids, after all, are watching. One day, they'll have to decide how much of a burden we are to them."

          Now this article refers mostly to elderly who live alone or in nursing homes.  But their are many senior couples who are doing through the same problems - nobody, including their children, visit them.  They must deal alone with financial challenges and physical challenges and limitations.  They fight depression and nobody - including the church - seems to care.  They have no value and nobody needs them anymore.  And it is so much worse during a pandemic.

          Where are the folks who really care about others, especially the lonely?

Wonderful Grace

          The older one gets the more one recalls things that used to be enjoyed but have been forgotten over the years. Recently I came upon a television special by the Gathers that featured the work of Cliff Barrows, song leader for Billly Graham crusades. I began to recall the great crusades of past years which featured large choirs, outstanding music, great crowds and stirring sermons. I even recalled how I once attended one of his crusades in Times Square in New York City. That is a great memory.
           But what touched me most while viewing this special program was the huge choir which sang “Wonderful Grace of Jesus”. First, it reminded me of the great choirs that I used to enjoy at camp meetings and Bible conferences. It reminded me of the many hymn sings that I have led where folks sang the old hymns so heartily. I’m sorry, but in my mind today’s praise teams don’t begin to measure up to these memories.
           I was also reminded of the many old hymns, filled with doctrine and testimonies which still minister to me even though they are not sung anymore today. Now I don’t mean to get into the battle of hymns vs. praise choruses. But I must say, I really miss the hymns!
          One of those that I really miss is “Wonderful Grace of Jesus”. I love to sing it because of ts upbeat, bouncy meter and somewhat unusual refrain, which splits into two parts, with the melody alternating between the bass/tenor and alto/soprano parts. But I also love this hymn because of its great words. God's grace which is greater than our sins. Grace that reaches the most defiled and sets our spirits free. And where can our praise begin for such a wonderful Savior who deals with us with his great and wonderful grace? If your life has been touched by His grace then you need to praise and thank Him and sing of His wonderful grace.
           This excellent hymn was written by Haldor Lillenas who was pastor of a First Church of the Nazarene. In 1919 he published his first book, and three years later he organized his own publishing house. For the next 10 years, he traveled, preached, wrote hymns and published song books. Over his lifetime Lillenas wrote more than 4,000 hymn texts and tunes,
           According to Lillenas, In 1917, "Mrs. Lillenas and I built our first little home in the town of Olivet, Illinois. Upon its completion, we had scarcely any money left to furnish the little home. Having no piano at the time, and needing an instrument of some kind, I managed to find, at one of the neighbor's home, a little wheezy organ which I purchased for $5.00. With the aid of this instrument a number of my songs were written which are now popular, including “Wonderful Grace of Jesus.'" Incidentally, Wonderful Grace of Jesus was copyrighted in 1918, but not published until 1922 in the Tabernacle Choir Book. Lillenas was paid $5.00 for this song, just enough to pay for the little organ." 
          As you read the words and hear it sung, your heart should be filled with thanks and praise for the wonderful grace of Jesus that reaches you. Remember that it is by grace that we are saved. It is by His grace that we ae blessed daily. And it is by His grace that one day we will be with Him eternally. Now I enjoyed being reminded of the great music large choirs in the past. And I enjoyed being reminded of some of the great music of the past. And I especially enjoyed being reminded of the great hymn “Wonderful Grace of Jesus” and the wonderful truth it conveys.
           What great memories and I thank the Lord for them. Take time this week to meditate upon the great words of this hymn.

 (1) Wonderful grace of Jesus, Greater than all my sin; 

How shall my tongue describe it, Where shall its praise begin? 

Taking away my burden, Setting my spirit free; 

For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me. 

Refrain Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus, 

Deeper than the mighty rolling sea; 

Wonderful grace, all sufficient for me, for even me. 

Broader than the scope of my transgressions, 

Greater far than all my sin and shame, 

O magnify the precious Name of Jesus. Praise His Name!

 (2) Wonderful grace of Jesus, Reaching to all the lost, 

By it I have been pardoned, Saved to the uttermost, 

Chains have been torn asunder, Giving me liberty; 

For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me. 

Refrain Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus, 

Deeper than the mighty rolling sea; 

Wonderful grace, all sufficient for me, for even me. 

Broader than the scope of my transgressions, 

Greater far than all my sin and shame, 

O magnify the precious Name of Jesus. Praise His Name! 

 (3) Wonderful grace of Jesus, Reaching the most defiled, 

By its transforming power, Making him God's dear child, 

Purchasing peace and heaven, For all eternity; 

And the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me. 

Refrain Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus, 

Deeper than the mighty rolling sea; 

Wonderful grace, all sufficient for me, for even me. 

Broader than the scope of my transgressions, 

Greater far than all my sin and shame, 

O magnify the precious Name of Jesus. Praise His Name! 

 If you would like to hear the crusade choir sing this song, try this link.   CRUSADE

Covid19 Reflections

        The battle with Covid19 has been a long, tough one.  If you, like me, have spent most of the last five months isolated at home, then you habve probably developed many interesting thoughts.

          Recently a friend posted these thoughts which just might represent some of our experiences.

          1.   So let me get this straight, there's no cure for a virus that can be killed by sanitizer and hand soap?

          2.   Is it too early to put up the Christmas tree yet? I have run out of things to do.

          3.   When this virus thing is over with, I still want some of you to stay away from me.

          4.   If these last months have taught us anything, it's that stupidity travels faster than any virus on the planet, particularly among politicians and bureaucrats.

          5.   Just wait a second – so what your telling me is that my chance of surviving all this is directly linked to the common sense of others? You're kidding, right!

          6.   People are scared of getting fined or arrested for congregating in crowds. As if catching a deadly disease and dying a horrible death wasn't enough of a deterrent.

          7.   If you believe all this will end and we will get back to normal once we reopen everything, raise your hand. Now slap yourself with it.

          8.   Another Saturday night in the house and I just realized the trash goes out more than me.

         9.   Whoever decided a liquor store is more essential than a hair salon is obviously a bald-headed alcoholic.

         10.   Remember when you were little and all your underwear had the days of the week on them. Those would be helpful right now.

         11.  The spread of Covid-19 is based on two factors: 1. How dense the population is and 2. How dense the population is.

         12.  Remember all those times when you wished the weekend would last forever? Well, wish granted. Happy now?

         13.  Did a big load of pajamas so I would have enough clean work clothes for this week.

         14.  Sleeping late is considered lazy, but waking up early and taking an afternoon nap is fine.

         So what do you think?  Have you had any of the same thoughts?  Now let me think, what day is it today?

Schools - Open or Closed

        To open schools or keep them closed - that is now the big question.

          Some states have already chosen to open them while some politicians, including the President, are pushing to make this happen.  Others, especially the other political party, seem to want them closed.  So the next question is whether this is now a question of safety or of politics.

          It has always bothered me that folks who have never spent a day teaching in a public school make major decisions that greatly affect the classroom. I guess they feel qualified since once they were students.  These decisions usually involve curriculum and things like testing.  But now their decisions are about safety and the actual operation of schools and classrooms.

          Now how will teachers enforce the rules of wearing of masks?  They already often have faced the challenges of enforcing normal behavior expectations. But if the student's parents don't wear masks when they are recommended, won't their children also object.  Will they claim that it is their right not to wear them?  And will the administration defend the teacher and enforce the rules?  I  wouldn't want to have to find out.  It's just another potential battle for teachers to face.

          And what about social distancing?  Classrooms that I have taught in have generally had 30 student desks and they usually filled the classroom.  And there was seldom even enough room for rows and other equipment. And rarely did I have a class of fewer than 25 students - usually closer to 30.  So how would you separate your class of students under those conditions?

          One solution would be to reduce class size.  But how could that be done without hiring additional teachers?  And where are schools going to get the money to do that when their budgets are already stressed and under pressure?

           Then there is the challenge of feeding students.  One proposal is to have them served in their classroom.  I can't comprehend the logistics of doing this.  How would you deliver meals to all of these classrooms and clean up afterwards?  Where would the staff be found to do this?  

          What about control and spacing in the halls between classes?  What about the use of restrooms?  What about the cleaning of rest rooms and classrooms throughout the day?

          And then there is the challenge of busing.  In the past some busses have had to have three children sit in each seat - often without seat belts.  You would also need to double the number of buses and drivers and transportation is already a major expense for each school district.  And of course there could be the problem of discipline on the busses.  Do you think that will disappear during a pandemic?

          And what about curriculum?  Online work is one solution.  But you must be sure that each student has adequate access to a computer and to the internet.  And I have had experience writing computer curriculum and it is not an easy task and it takes much time to develop it.  And what about hands on activities, especially in things like science?

          And how would you handle absences and make-up work?  That was always a challenge for me when I was teaching.  And then there is the need for substitutes when a teacher is absent.  And, with the virus, you can be sure that teachers will use all of their sick days even if they don't catch the virus.  And where will qualified substitutes come from?  Schools often had trouble covering classrooms of absent students before the pandemic.

          And then there are the extracurricular concerns on the secondary level, especially  sports, marching band, musical groups and plays.  Already schools are running into problems with preseason practices.  How do you control Covid19 in such situations.

          I really don't understand how schools will be able to operate without additional funds and staffing.  And with the loss of tax revenue this past year, that will be a major challenge.  I guess we will just need to watch and see what happens.

          I really enjoyed my 39 years in the classroom but I am now very glad that I am retired and not dealing with all of these problems.  I'm not sure what I would do if I were a teacher.  With the physical problems that I have it might be a dangerous proposition to teach.  Maybe more older teachers will choose to quit or retire.  Then staffing would become even a bigger problem.

         And what would I do if I were a parent?  That would be a very difficult decision to have to make.  I pray for my family as they make those decisions for my grandchildren.  May the Lord give them wisdom and surround my grandchildren with His protection

70 Years

          Seventy years might seem to be a very long time.  But you might be surprised how quickly that time might go by if you are doing something that you really enjoy.

         Seventy years ago my father organized a group of families to form a new church in Lancaster.  These folks had been former members of  Mennonite Brethren in Christ Churches in Harrisburg, Lebanon and Mt. Carmel and they were then all living in the Lancaster area.

          The new church held its first service in a tent at the corner of Broad and Orange Streets in Lancaster on July 22, 1950.  There were 31 charter members and, at the age of 9, I was one of them.  This was the beginning of a very exciting era that has lasted for seven decades.

          The new congregation met for its regular services in Malta Temple in Lancaster.  This was a memorable experience for many reasons, including the fact that the building also housed a bowling alley.  It was a common experience to hear the noise of bowling balls and pins during our services.

          But on November 1, 1951, the congregation was able to begin meeting in the basement of its newly constructed building at the corner of Prospect and Hager Streets.  I have many good memories of members of the congregation working together there to complete their new building by doing such jobs as plumbing, carpentry and painting.  Shortly after that we were able to move upstairs to use the new sanctuary.

          In 1958 I started and led the first church choir.  A neighbor played the old piano for us since none of our regulars was a pianist.  In 1968 we finally bought a good piano and an organ was added in 1969.  After our marriage, my wife joined the church and became the church pianist/organist, a position she has held and shared for about 57 years.

          Over 70 years the original church building underwent three major additions and renovations.  Then while a new building was being built at a new location, we underwent two temporary moves until moving into its present location on Donerville Road on June 15, 2003.  Since then the new Stables Youth Center, a portable classroom and the Hoarce A. Kauffman softball field have been added to the property.

          The church  has provided many opportunities for service over these decades.  We've had numerous opportunities to teach Sunday School classes and Bible studies.  In fact my wife led the first women's Bible study there in 1972. We have been honored to have provided special music and have sung in church choirs for much of these 70 years.  I served as Sunday School superintendent for a number of years, elder for 30 years, and church financial secretary for 16 years. We have also directed the church prayer chains for over 50 years. But the most exciting ministry was serving as founder and commander of our Awana ministry for 38 years.  These were special highlights of our 70 years.

          It is hard to understand where 70 years have come and gone.  But, unfortunately it now appears that this part of our life may be passing.  Nobody anticipated the Covid19 pandemic.  But our family doctors have told us in no uncertain terms that we may no longer attend church.  It would be too dangerous with all the physical problems that we have.  We are not to let anyone push us into attending again until there is a reliable vaccine available.

          Now will there ever be a reliable vaccine in our lifetimes?  It is hard to even think about this, but our days of attending, fellowshipping and ministering in church may have come to a sudden end.  And that is very hard for us to understand and adjust to.  However, as one ages, it becomes a little easier to adjust when you are no longer needed or missed.  But it is hard to realize that you are forgotten and no longer part of what has been a vital part of your life for decades.

          But God has not left us alone.  He will continue to be with us in whatever days we still have here on earth, no matter if we worship Him in church or alone here at home.  And He has given us 70 special years with great memories.

Basics Of Life

 

        The events of the last few months have shaken and changed our lives considerably, probably forever.    Our way of life, our values, our faith are being challenged and at times there seems to be nothing that we can do about it.
    But, the Lord is still here! 

          We have been hit by Covid19.  Many are sick, many have died and it appears to be getting worse.  No vaccine is available and none is close to being developed.  Shopping, eating, visiting friends, medical care and worshipping have had to change.  And too many still feel it is political and won't wear masks or keep separation.

But, the Lord is still here!  

          Protesters have taken to the streets.  Some have torn down statues.  Some have vandalized stores and set fire to buildings. Many have disrupted traffic and pedestrian activities.   One can't help but wonder if mob rule is here to stay.

But, the Lord is still here! 

          Court and government decisions have been in conflict with Biblical truths.  This is going to create all sorts of problems for Christian organizations and churches in the near future.  No longer can we expect our country to defend Biblical values.

But, the Lord is still here!  

          Our schools and colleges are being forced to change.  Shorter classes and new techniques will be needed.  Curriculum will be changed to reflect current changes and opinions.  How will that affect the future. of our country?

But, the Lord is still here! 

          Now if these things are disturbing you there are a few things that you can do.  First, turn off the news.  It is generally liberal, sensational and prejudiced.  It can be very disturbing and one-sided.  And I am talking about the network news, the local news and especially MSNBC and Fox.
          Second, spend time looking for folks that you can help.  Maybe they need help around their house or help shopping.  Maybe they just need a friend who cares and contacts them regularly.  This isolation has been tough especially when nobody seems to care at all about you. Your showing that you care will not only help them but will also be an encouragement to you.

          Third, and more importantly, we all need to get back to the basics of Christian living - Bible study, prayer, hearts that are pure, a love that is blind, a faith that is firmly grounded in Christ.  Many believers have drifted away from these truths.

          And that is the message that 4Him, a contemporary Christian group,  shares in their song "We Need to Get Back to the Basics of Life".  Now I know that many of you won't care for their style of music, but hopefully you will mediate on their words and then decide if you have drifted away from the basics of life. I believe that real change will come only when believers get back to the basics.

1.     We've turned the page, for a new day has dawned

We've rearranged what is right and what's wrong

Somehow we've drifted so far from the truth

That we can't get back home

Where are the virtues that once gave us light

Where are the morals that governed our lives

Someday we all will awake and look back

Just to find what we've lost

We need to get back to the basics of life

A heart that is pure and a love that is blind

A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ

The hope that endures for all times

These are the basics, 
we need to get back to the basics of life

2.     The newest rage is to reason it out

Just meditate and you can overcome every doubt

After all man is a God, they say

God is no longer alive

But I still believe in the old rugged cross

And I still believe there is hope for the lost

And I know the rock of all ages will stand

Through changes of time

We need to get back to the basics of life

A heart that is pure and a love that is blind

A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ

The hope that endures for all times

These are the basics, 
we need to get back to the basics of life

Bridge

We've let the darkness invade us too long

We've got to turn the tide

Oh and we need the passion that burned long ago

To come and open our eyes

There's no room for compromise

We need to get back to the basics of life

A heart that is pure and a love that is blind

A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ

The hope that endures for all times

These are the basics, 
we need to get back to the basics of life

If you care to, you can listen to it here.   BASICS

To Wear A Mask Or Not To Wear One

          To wear a mask or not wear a mask ...  that appears to be a big question today.  And opinions are varied and discussions about this question can become very heated.  In the last few days I have read and heard "debates" on Facebook, on a community bulletin board and in the newspaper.  Some of the debaters are folks I know, some of whom call themselves Christian.  I have been surprised and shocked at many of their responses.

          On the virus itself one person said  "COVID19 is real, but it is a manufactured pandemic. We are as sheep being led to the slaughter! Think about it!"  Others claim it isn't real and is just politics, so why follow the recommendations of the government.

          Another said, "It's all about control and power! This cannot be constitutional. It's time to call the congressman and put an end to this!"

          When this week PA Governor Tom Wolf declared that everyone must wear a mask whenever they leave their home, one person said, "I still won't be wearing one outside, and only inside if people get into my 6' of space or I'm told I need one. I'll let you know if I get a citation. I'm not sure who's monitoring it. I can let you know when I encounter the mask patrol." Another replied, "I'm not wearing a mask! It messes up my makeup."  A third said "I'm going to need bail money."  A fourth said, "to quote Nancy Reagan, just say no!"

          One person said, "I wear a mask when I go to the store and when it is regulated at church. I wear a mask promoting Trump as I do think a lot of this is an attempt to hurt Trump. I just don't think I cause a death if I don't wear a mask. This meme actually is good for straightening my attitude as I look at others not wearing masks outside exercising or wearing a mask not covering their nose. I don't concern myself with them, I just go on. I'm not worried about catching it or spreading it."

          In one debate about wearing them out of courtesy to protect others, one participant replied,  "Honestly, causing a death? really!! Where maybe 7% (high estimate) of cases die and not even 1% of the population has this? With that logic, masks should be worn forever, since colds and flu can also cause people to die".

          I must admit that I am shocked about how many seem to have no respect for others - especially seniors and those with serious physical problems.  One person said, without any apparent concern about these people, "just make them stay isolated at home!"  Where have love and concern for others gone in our country?  It's almost like - let them die just so nobody takes away my rights and freedoms.   Maybe on the 4th of July we need some discussions about freedoms and resulting responsibilities.

          I have been thoroughly surprised and disappointed in how many of these responses came from folks who claim to be Christians.  They show little compassion for others and no respect for elected leaders or their recommendations.  Nobody dare tell them what to do.  Now I thought that the Bible tells believers to follow those in authority over us unless it means violating Biblical principles.  So is refusing to wear a mask a violation of a Biblical teaching?  I think not.

          Unfortunately too many people are refusing to follow these guidelines. I still see folks everywhere not wearing masks.  Last week my neighbors had a birthday party with 50-60 folks there.  No social distancing and no masks.  We recently drove by a local park with three basketball courts.  All three were packed with young people.  Again, no social distancing or masks.  My wife recently had an appointment and about six were present.  She was the only one who wore a mask.  People without masks crowd beaches, recreational areas, parks, stores, restaurants and bars - most without masks.  And the number of those who are infected explodes.
           I read that in Alabama groups are having Covid19 parties in which participants pay to get admitted.  Then the first person who gets Covid19 is given all the money.

           We have been spoiled by amazing medical advances and care in the past.  Doctors seem to find miracle cures for diseases - but so far not for Covid19.  Will they ever find a cure?  i don't really know, but I hope so.

           In the meantime I personally will not rebel, even though at times it might be inconvenient.  I will follow social distancing guidelines, sanitize my hands and wear a mask whenever I am out of the house or around people.  I will avoid large gatherings.  I will take my doctor's warning even though that means I can't attend church until there is a cure.  And I will trust the Lord to protect me from exposures to this dangerous virus and carry through whatever is in the future.

          That is my obligation as a husband, father, friend and as a child of God passing through this land.

The Joys of Getting Old

          Getting old isn't easy and you don't really understand that truth until you get there.  Many things that you have taken for granted all of your life slowly stop working.  Most seniors learn to live with pain.  The number of meds you take begins to increase and you need special cases to keep track of them and take them at the correct time.

          I heard the story of an elderly woman who woke up and after a few minutes exclaimed that she must be dead.  Her husband asked why she would say that.  She replied "because nothing hurts this morning!"

          And nobody really cares about your changes in your health, nor do they want to hear about them.  In fact the older you become, the fewer friends you have and nobody needs you  or cares about you anymore.  It can be a very lonely time in life, especially when you need to "shelter in place".  We haven't been able to see our grandchildren for about three months even though they live nearby.  Nobody from church calls.  Being isolated is hard.

          And the pandemic has made  many things worse.  Seniors now are the likely folks to get Covid19 and even die from it.  You must take all sorts of extra precautions.  Our doctor has clearly told us that we should not attend church until there is a good vaccine available.  That could mean that we may never be able to go back again.  After 38 years we must give up serving in Awana.  

          It has affected us in many ways.  We just received a note from our dentist of 45 year who we really appreciated.  He has decided to close his practice for a number of reasons, but especially over concerns about his health and that of his staff and his patients.  That is a big blow to us, especially when I am in need of dental work to relieve some pain.  Many dentists are also temporarily closed because of the pandemic and many aren't taking new customers.  I think my dentist has made a wise choice, but it has created a real problem for us.

          Here is what maybe all of us 70+ year-olds, and those "yet-to-be", have to look forward to!

          This is something that happened at an assisted living center. The people who lived there have small apartments but they all eat at a central cafeteria. One morning one of the residents didn't show up for breakfast, so my wife went upstairs and knocked on his door to see if everything was OK. She could hear him through the door, and he said that he was running late and would be down shortly. So she went back to the dining area.

          An hour later he still hadn't arrived. So she went back up towards his room, and she found him on the stairs. He was coming down the stairs, but was having a hard time. He had a death grip on the handrail and seemed to have trouble getting his legs to work right. She told him she was going to call an ambulance, but he told her no, he wasn't in any pain and just wanted to have his breakfast. So she helped him the rest of the way down the stairs, and he had his breakfast.

          When he tried to return to his room he was completely unable to get up even the first step, so they called an ambulance for him. A couple hours later she called the hospital to see how he was doing. The receptionist there said he was fine, he just had both of his legs in one leg of his boxer shorts.

          Just wait, the older one gets, the more often events like this may happen to you.  Just smile and keep moving on.

          But there is one positive thing about getting old - heaven is getting closer, day by day.   Soon we will be done with the pandemic and all of our aches and pains.  What  a future that will be.