The Shepherd's Heart

Relaxing Monday...

2011-02-28T14:37:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been just that, mostly. A relaxing Monday. I haven't blogged in ages. That surprises no one. No promises or lofty statements about how I will from this day forward re-dedicate myself to writing all sorts of amazing, interesting and clever stuff for the enjoyment of the masses of people who just love this kind of stuff. None of that. Not today. Maybe I'll remember to do this again in four or five months, who knows. ;p
At any rate I will say this. It has been an exciting, wonderful, if tiring few months. We have enjoyed meeting all sorts of new folks as well as rebuilding some wonderful old relationships. Three churches have been added to our region's list with several more contacts and groups we are working with. I have been blessed to administer the covenant of The Church of God to nearly thirty people, and preached to probably a dozen different congregations. We have been to some district conventions, the minister's convention, held revival in Des Moines, Iowa, and visited several other churches in service. I have made several trips to visit pastors or other ministers, including meeting up with a young family who are moving to our region later this year. As a fellow who despises boredom, I must say, I haven't seen that particular old enemy for quite sometime. If I did, we may sit down for a cup of coffee, boredom and me. Probably not. The life of a minister is not only eternally rewarding, but it's fun. in addition to the regional work, we are also the pastoral family at our local church, which is one of the great joys of my life. I love the pastoral work, and feel called to it. Always have. The regional work is great, too. It's all really the same, in that we do it all for Christ and His church. It's all about giving honor to God and trying to help people. I am truly thankful to God for giving me and my family the opportunity to serve Him as a minister. We love this life, and it has been good to us-God has been good to us. He IS good to us. His people have shown us so much love and generosity over they years. One of the great perks of this work is that so much of it is pure pleasure. Fellow-shipping, praying, just being with the beautiful people we have met and known is a blessing in itself. To be able to do this for one's life's work! It's an unspeakable blessing, in my view. Thank you, Lord Jesus.
Other news since I last blogged, although it is hardly "news" now, is that my gorgeous wife, Marsha Renee, and I are expecting our third child. Add another wonderful blessing to the list! Saw the little one on a thirteen week ultrasound today. So cool. Looks just like the daddy. Big head, big ears. Don't know where it gets that small body thing from...it will change in time.
Before I close out, I want to also mention that we attended the couples retreat a couple weekends ago in Townsend, TN. Bro and Sis Horton did a fanatstic job! We were blessed by every single thing on program. I truly believe we were enriched by being there. One of my very favorite parts was sister Vicky Williams class. THAT was a blessing. If you ever have the chance to attend this retreat in the future, I highly recommend it.
Well, that is all I can muster for now...see you again sometime or another. Until then...God bless you!

The Heartland Region Update 9/24/2010

2010-09-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

From this point on, in addition to other things, I will be using this space to give regular updates of activities within the new Heartland Region of The Church of God. This seven state area consists of IA/IL/IN/KY/OH/MI/WI. I am thrilled to have been called upon to do the work of Regional Overseer of this great area and am already enjoying working with the great people here!
To this point I have been blessed to have visited several churches. In addition to working in the local church at E'town of which I am pastor, I have visited Sellersburg, IN; Greenup, KY; attended REVIVAL at Lexington, KY. I have also had many great conversations with ministers from around the region. I can feel in my heart that God is about to do something great for us here in the Heartland! Thank you LORD!
On Tuesday Brother Terry Flora and I traveled to Indiana to check out sites for Minister's Convention and Men's Retreat. Sister Amy Dyer had already found the retreat sight and recommended it for Men's Retreat, so we went to take a look. It is a fantastic place, and I believe it will serve the purpose nicely. Located in Montgomery, IN it is called the Gastof Amish Village. I will post some pictures soon so everyone can check it out.
We also went to Franklin, IN to see the auditorium we plan to use for our Fall Convention and Minister's Meetings. It is on the campus of Franklin College, and is a very beautiful place.
The dates for the convention are October 15-17. As soon as I get confirmation from our guest speaker I will let you know who it is, and publish the convention program.
This year our theme for convention is "Reconciliation...Restoration...REVIVAL!!!"
After enjoying a great CPMA service Wednesday evening in Elizabethtown, I was able to travel with Brother Terry Flora to Greenup, kY to visit the church there on Thursday evening. Brother Charles Clark and his wife Sister Lois went along and we had some great conversation and fellowship. The Clark's are old friends and have been in the ministry around Kentucky for many years. The service was great and well attended. I really enjoyed being there. I was the pastor in that area for three years and love the folks there very much.
Following are some pictures from this week...

These pictures are of the building which houses the auditorium for Minister's Convention. It is called Stott Hall. Starting from the left, the first is an outdoor view. It is a very pretty older building. Second shows a view from the right side. I really like the windows and the natural light that shows through. Third is taken from the stage. Lastly you see a view of the stage from the balcony.

So, here are the pictures from Gastof Amish Village, where our retreats will be held next spring.
The first picture shows an outside shot from the front of the main building which houses the restaurant. We will have a private room here for fellowship while dining on wonderful Amish cooking. The second picture shows a gazebo out back with a view of a small lake. The third picture is the outside view of the building where the services will be held, and finally in the fourth pic is the inside of the same building. I believe this will be a perfect place for both our retreats.
So, that is the update for now. More soon. God bless...

Newspaper, Boxes, and My U-Haul piggy Bank

2010-09-09T20:21:00.000-07:00

So, here we are, a couple or three weeks after the General Assembly. I have not blogged in a bit, as it has been quite hectic around the Estep household. But, alas, friends, here I am blogging once again. I must get this done now so as to avoid any comments from the, er, peanut gallery. Last thing I need is for the two people who actually read this rambling mess to turn critic on me. That would just be a shame. I jest.
So, we were appointed at the General Assembly to be the new overseer of, well several places. Seven states, to be exact. Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin. That is a mouthful. I realized quickly (due to my great wisdom ;p) that it would just be too much to try and say that all every time we refer to the region. So, I felt the need to give this new region a name. SO I had one of our pastors help me do some research. Before the addition of the central states, I had considered the Ohio Valley Region as a possible name. But with the additional states that would not work. So Brother Shane researches it, and tells me that all of the states included have been considered a part of the American Heartland at one time or another, with the exception being Kentucky. "Then that settles it!" I exclaimed when he told me. "We'll call it the Bluegrass Region!!" Of course that was and is a joke. HA! We will from this point be known as "The Heartland Region". I think it is fitting, and will serve us well as an identity. Very soon, our regional website will reappear. I will let you all know when that is.
So, now I am working on Minister's Convention. It has felt a bit surreal to be planning a Ministers Convention. I have planned a bunch of camps, a couple of District Conventions, and a ton of local church stuff. But this feels different. I like the feeling, and am enjoying the new role, thus far, but it is definitely different. I keep thinking back to how, growing up in a pastor's home, I thought a lot of the pastoral things would sort of be second nature to me when I got into pastoring myself. WRONG. Ha! Seeing it done and doing it is NOT the same. Same with this Overseer job. Dad did it. I have worked closely with several very good overseers, and even been the pastor to two different ones, both of whom were great men of God who taught me a lot. Okay...NOT THE SAME! but it is ok. I feel God leading me and teaching me each day, and I am able to draw from all the things I have learned from all those men, and others. Plus, I have already found that the ministry of The Church of God are very generous, and helpful. I have already called on a number of men for advice, or to talk and found them very giving. They want things to go well for me, for our people, for The Church of God. Thank God for them.
Regarding our move...
We are currently packing and painting our old house. Certain rooms are in dire need of a good paint job, so this is as good a time as any, right? Well, probably not, but we are doing it anyway. :) We will keep some furniture here and use it to stay in when we are in for family visits and holidays. So, now it will be nice and freshly painted when we are in for Thanksgiving!
We plan to move in to the regional parsonage the first week of October, Lord willing. We will take some useful things down each week,and will be staying there on the weekends to cut down the Sunday travel time and give us some time for visiting on Saturdays.
The Uhaul Piggy Bank
So, about seven years ago, when I had been moved to Raceland, KY from Elizabethtown, KY, I got to feeling sort of sorry for myself. Being a preachers kid, I have moved a LOT in my life. Pretty much on average about every two years since I was twelve. That is too much, folks. So, when I was in the Uhaul shop, I saw this little cardboard uhaul truck, it was a piggy bank, actually. I bought it and kept it in my office for a long time. I would often tell people "I plan on that being the last uhaul I ever need!" Always got a good laugh out of that.
So, here I am two uhauls later. Haha...never works out like we think it will, eh? I am thankful that God has given my family over four years at this one address, here on the old family farm. We are excited about the move to E'town, as it will put us closer to the work that we love. But it is a bit hard to pick up and move again. But, here goes!
Well, that is the update for now...got stuff to do!

so, this SATURDAY EVENING, a short POST

2010-08-14T19:06:00.000-07:00

So, we've had a busy day, and I have had a bit of a mishap, so I must be short this week. We have had an eventful week, to say the least. I will put on some pics later, but for now I want to tell about our NEW PUPPIES! Our Basset Hound, Daisy Mae, had four beautiful little puppies this past week. There were seven, but unfortunately three didn't make it. But the other three are healthy little rascals. This is Daisy's first litter, and she is pretty young, but she is a great mommy. I have been spoiling her with warm soup, and the occasional hot dog, or cheese. Plus today, I got her and gave her a warm bath and let her out to run around the yard awhile. Now she is resting with her babies.
This evening, after we got home, I had a bug fly right into my ear! Seriously! This is one of the craziest feelings I've ever had. I've actually been a bit dizzy, nauseated, and have a huge headache from the sound of that thing crawling around my eardrum. We thought we got it out, but I occasionally hear a little something in there. I almost think that we actually did get it out. WHile working on it, a little green bug showed up right on the table. It wasn't there before. I almost think what is in there now is some fluid, some drainage, or water from where I got in the shower and tried to flush out the bug. Wow. I don't think it is dangerous, but it sure is a weird feeling.
Anyhoo, I gotta cut short tonight, because I have a few more things to do to be prepared for tomorrow.

Estep's Family Recipe Barbeque Sauce

2010-08-10T12:30:00.001-07:00

Friday and Saturday I worked to put together the first batch of my own family recipe for Barbeque sauce. It took me the better part of two days to research recipes and discover what are the main ingredients to use in such a sauce.I combined several recipes, dropping some ingredients, and adding some from each one to sort of "invent" my own base to start from. Then the fun began! I dug out different spices, and other things and started to experiment. What I came up with after several hours of putting it together and cooking the sauce, was a pretty good sauce. Hot AND sweet. The heat doesn't slap you in the face, but sort of creeps up on you. the sweet is right up front, but not too sweet. A pretty good mix, actually. I fixed up some pulled pork from a huge shoulder roast. Since I don't have a smoker, I roasted it in a big pressure cooker. Then reheated it and heated some sauce, letting each person add the sauce according to their taste. I was surprised that the very first batch was as good as it was. My wife and my mom were both pretty impressed. And it seems to get better after spending several hours in the fridge and being heated up again.

Since the Barbeque experiment, I have been in the kitchen, experimenting a lot. I am planning to make homemade buttermilk pancakes for breakfast tomorrow morning. Along with that, inspired by Christy Wilcox, I have decided to try a recipe found online at www.allrecipes.com for homemade buttermilk syrup. Sounds soooo yummy. My wife is going to pick up some buttermilk and a couple of other things for me while she is out with her mom this afternoon. I can't wait. The girls start school tomorrow, and I am making them a special breakfast that will be thoroughly homemade by their daddy. I should probably have Marsha talke pictures,

I went to the doc today for my followup appointment after surgery. He said it looks good but doesn't want me going back to work for several more weeks. He has mentioned several times about my size and the potential for re-injury. he is being really cautious, and I am too. I DO NOT want to go through another surgery like that one. So I'm off a while longer. It's nice, as I have had so much time with Marsha and the girls. I've had a ton of time to rest and experiment in the kitchen. I've really enjoyed spending more time studying the Word and praying. So, I won't complain about more of that.

Vacation Pics

2010-08-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more pics from vacation. At the top there are a couple pics of the girls playing in the creek. It really was a blast out there. We were in a nice secluded area, so it was very private and we just let loose and had a ball! Beneath that are a couple nice pics of the creek and a beautiful waterfall back a holler off the road.Then the rest are of us at Cades Cove.

Another Saturday Evening Post

2010-08-06T21:15:00.001-07:00

My, what a week! We are so very tired, yet relaxed. Marsha and I and our two girls Haley and Taylor took a short vacation this week in the Great Smoky Mountains. We took along our eleven year old cousin Amber from Texas who is staying the summer with us. Boy, oh boy was it nice to get away. I had surgery last week to repair an umbilical hernia, so I couldn't really do any kind of action vacation, which means four days in the mountains was perfect. Very few things on earth are as relaxing to me as being in those beautiful mountains! I realize the mountains out west are much bigger, and have a beauty all their own, but the mountains of Appalachia are just perfect to me. Packed in together and covered in green...it really soothes me for some reason. I especially love the Smoky Mountains. The sort of mysterious look they have with the "smoke" up around the tops...the beautiful, cool, and crystal clear streams running from the mountain tops.Just beautiful. Every time I am there I am more in awe of God's creativity.Surrounded by the wonders of His creation, I feel so small, and yet so loved. Small because God and His creative works are so vast,; loved because I know He sees me even as I stand dwarfed by the mountains on every side. It is to me a feeling so grand that mere words can not do it justice. But thank God! He is a wonderful, powerful, magnificent God!

We left Richmond on Monday, a little later in the day than we had planned. That's nothing new. I don't even get mad about it anymore. Well, ok, sometimes I do. But not Monday. We were going to the mountains. I was so exhausted. We had gone to Elizabethtown Sunday for both services. I had preached Sunday morning, but had Brother Montgomery to preach the Sunday night service for me. He did a good job, and I got the night off from the physical exertion of preaching. I'm just the kind of preacher that gets pretty excited, and it's difficult for me to contain even when I'm weak in body.At any rate, I was exhausted and nearly ill when we got home.Marsha prayed with me and we got some sleep. Monday I woke up and knew immediately it was going to be a rough day for me physically, but my family and I needed the get away.We have a lot ahead of us, and it has been a hectic and difficult year or so for us in some ways. We just needed it. So off we went. By Monday night I was so sick. I stayed that way through most of the night. I believe I remember Marsha praying for me some more. Thank God for a Godly, praying wife. I mean that. She has prayed me through some of the darkest and most difficult moments of my life. That's one of the many things about Marsha Renee that I love. I woke up Tuesday morning feeling a little weak, but pretty good over all. For whatever reason, I was up way ahead of the rest of the family, so I did a little laundry,scouted out the free breakfast, and then since there was literally no one around, I went and kicked off my flip flops and soaked my feet in the hot tub. Now that was a nice, peaceful morning.

Feeling pretty good, I got the girls up and we all headed down to eat the breakfast, then out to see what Gatlinburg had to offer. It was very crowded but fun. Crowded is generally ok with me, because that means there are people. Yes, friends, I am a people watcher. Got it from my folks. Dad is an observer. He catches little funny things about people and makes them seem even funnier. Mom, she is just zany. The woman is wacky! She and I and my wife can laugh ourselves silly just sitting in a waiting room, or at the mall, or a restaurant watching people. Good old human entertainment. So, between watching the hilarious things that people do when they don't realize you're watching, doing a few silly things of our own for some other folks entertainment, and doing a little shopping, it was a nice morning and afternoon. One of my favorite times was when Marsha and Haley went in to a place and left me and Taylor and Amber to our own devices for a few minutes. We got the biggest hand dipped corn dog I have ever seen! It had to be ten to twelve inches long! Amber had a bite or two, then little Taylor Nicole the chick took over! She attacked that thing with gusto! Never have I seen anybody go after a corndog like that...it was downright inspiring. So she did take after her big ole daddy in some ways, right? What a chick.

We also went to my favorite store while in Gatlinburg, The Pepper Palace. A hot sauce specialty shop. Man, Oh Man! I love that place. They're online...you should check'em out, if you like spicy anything. They have it. After returning to Pigeon Forge, checking out some of our favorite things there, including some side splitting family comedy, we got some grub at the Happy Days Diner. It's an old fashioned greasy spoon diner with some fantastic burgers and fries, themed after the styles of the fifties. Pretty fun, and great food.

The next day was probably the best. We went to Cades Cove, an area in the National Park that was a busy little village in the eighteen hundreds thru the nineteen-thirties. It ceased to exist as a living village when the National Park took the land, but they have preserved several old original homes, churches, and an old mill to commemorate the lifestyle and toughness of the settlers there. It is a beautiful and peaceful place. I'm always sort of overtaken with the romance of that time period and the simple ways that they lived. Although life was simple, it was often brutal, and the people were hard working and tough minded. They were also very intelligent. I'm amazed at the ways they managed to overcome the obstacles of living in what could at times be a pretty unforgiving environment. Very inspiring indeed.

While there we had a family picnic, and got some great nature and wildlife pics, including pictures of six bears. These were wild bears, not prisoners in some cage. It was pretty awesome. Here are a few bear pics. This isn't all of them, but you can find the rest on my wife's Facebook page.

There's a ton of other stuff I could say, but I won't bore you. I will just leave this with you.We enjoyed everything we did there in the area. All of it was great. But the most fun we had was the day we spent in the mountains, picnicking, running from bears, looking at old places and daydreaming. The time we spen that cost us the least seemed to enrich us the most. Interesting, huh?

As we left the Cove, we headed back down the mountain, and we decided to get out and play for awhile in the stream coming down the mountain. it was cool clear water straight from the tops of the mountains, and it was just beautiful. We laughed, we played, we splashed. I taught the girls how to skip rocks. It was just awesomely simple family time. I highly recommend it.

i'll post some more and maybe some more pics later, but that's all for now.

Coming next week...

My first attempt at my very own Estep Family Recipe barbeque Sauce...not bad!

Plus pics of us playing in the creek!!!

Saturday Evening Post

2010-07-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

That's right. I'm still here. Blogging. Sister Becki, I have made it a couple of weeks, and I am still blogging. Didn't think I'd make it did you?
Ok...neither did I. But I have. Hooray for me.
Ok. That was satisfying. Wonder if I'll still be at it next Saturday evening. Well, anyway, here's my post. My Saturday evening post. Enjoy.

CHURCH CAMP
So I have already told you about our church camp, it's true. But I have only told you but a little. Above left is a picture of our group gathered together in the old gym. That's me in the gray shirt. Handsome, right? I know. Looking back, I only wish we would've thought to put spare shirst on the two or three who weren't wearing one. Oh, well. It looks great anyway. The light in that old building wasn't perfect for pictures, but the place is where we spent so much time and had so much of our fun. It really does have it's own special charm.

A STAFF WHO PRAYS TOGETHER

Here is a picture that may seem sort of random, but I thought it was a good one to sum up our camps. Every year, for as long as I can recall, our camp staff has been made up of people who pray. When things are good, they pray. When things are going sort of rough, or someone is sick, injured, or discouraged, they pray. It's the same thing from them no matter what. This pic was taken right at the end of our staff meeting on day one. Just seconds after the pic was taken the hole in the circle would be filled by the author of this blog.

WHY I KEEP GOING TO CAMP, YEAR AFTER YEAR

Joey Letcher. That's right, Joey Letcher. And Anthony Frisbee. And Vashti Watson. And Robert Vance. And the Newport boys and all their buddies they brought to camp all through the years. Then there's Cricket, Sarah, Vanessa, Richard (who was called Gilligan), Eric, Angel, Stephanie, Ryan, Daniel....there's my old buddy Wilson McMahon. Now there's a piece of work.There was this one kid who was very special to me, but who I've unfortunately lost contact with-my buddy Flea. Oh, and Puffy, Cookie, and Shagg.Many of these went to camp years ago and are grown. Some have families. Some serve God, some don't. A few are in TCOG today...a couple of them are even ministers. Most of them are at the very least, still among the living. With the exception of three, that I know of. Neither Roman Flinchum, David Cantrell,nor Josh Johnson are still with us. Roman was killed in an accident at work close to a decade ago. David and Josh died within months of each other, David in a terrible car accident; Josh due to some medical problems he had developed. I was VLB leader where Roman's family went to church way back in my younger days. David and Josh both come from families where my wife and I were pastor from 2003-2005, Raceland, KY. There's an empty place at camp now...at least for those of us who went to camp with them. I love those guys.
These are just a few of the names I could mention, dating back to 1994 when we started having camp as a region. There are countless more. Every one of them is the reason my wife and I pack up and go every year. That's why that picture of me and Joey Letcher made it to my blog. I was just sitting there playing music when he came up and started sort of teasing with me. Then he leaned in and gave me a big hug. I motioned to my wife to get a pic. It was a nice moment for me. There's why I keep going to camp. That's why we all keep doing it. Thank God for the reasons.

Great Camp...Surgery...Rough couple of days

2010-07-28T12:37:00.001-07:00

Well, folks, here it is. My post-camp, post-surgery I-think-I'm-gonna-make-it-after-all blog.
First, let me say that we had a fantastic Church Camp. One of our best in years. We were back, once again, at Boone's Creek Baptist camp, a facility we returned to last year for the first time since 1994. It is a pretty rustic old place, but it does have a few neat perks that keep us in love with the place.The cabins are rough old wood sided cabins with creaky floors, and each one is fitted with what was once a brand new air conditioner unit in the window. They do have private showers and toilets, so that's a plus. Nothin' fancy, but if you want fancy try the Motel 6. They'll leave the light on for you. Not us. Porch lights at camp in Kentucky are a bad thing. They draw bugs...which draw out the bats. Okay so it isn't that bad...or is it.
Actually, I'm cutting up. It is a cool old camp facility. We don't go for fancier places simply because we fight to keep costs low. With God's help this year we were able to offer a special package that would get you tuition, a very nice t-shirt, AND a $5.00 snack card for $85.00!!! Unthinkable! Bur God laid that on our hearts so we went with it. And by preliminary counts, we actually MADE A PROFIT!! Praise God!! He has blessed us so much! It is amazing that we made any profit this year...indeed it is a miracle. Now, of course, I should explain what I mean by "made a profit." No individual profits financially from this. Although many individuals put money in, none of us profits financially from the camping program. The region does not take this profit to use it for other things, but rather it is put into the camp fund to help pay for promotion and preparation for next years camp. So, thank God!
We had about 60 campers and staff this year, which is roughly the same as last year. The funny thing is, one church which sent 10 or more campers last year only sent about four people this year. BUT, the Letcher family, which sent about seven this year, wasn't there last year! How funny is that?It sort of balanced out, I suppose.
I do not have the final figure on experiences, but I think it is in the range of about ten. Six people were baptized.
Earlier I mentioned some perks that make us love the place. Well, here they are. It has this big, ole gymnasium, probably built in the 1930's with an old wood gym floor. In there you can play volleyball, basketball, or any of a number of things. They have a sound system in there so you can play Christian music while the kids play. Pretty nice. In addition to that, they have about a hundred pair of really old, yet fully functional roller skates. Is that cool, or what? Very funny to watch the skating. Most of us old school TCOG folks haven't the foggiest idea how to operate the things, so as you can imagine, hilarity ensues. oh, yes, it does.
In addition to the great old gym, they have a pool. It was so hot this year, that the girls and boys each recieved an extra hour of swim time. Yes, that's right, an extra hour. I had built a ton of fat into the schedule to make it flexible, and so this year we took some of that fat and swam in it! :p
We also gave the staff and some senior campers a chance to swim after hours...very cool. I suppose it should go without saying that we managed to put a nice covering around the fence surrounding the pool, and got each gender their own lifeguard...I'll go ahead and mention it to keep everyone's mind at ease.
So, anyway, camp was pretty awesome. The services were so wonderful. We had Sister Allene Cox from Tennessee as our guest evangelist. Sister Cox is a life long friend of mine, and it was just great to have her there. Let me tell you, she obeyed God! He used her so much to inspire and bless the campers and staff. The altars were filled every evening and God really did some great things in the lives of our campers. He didn't stop there, but the staff were also blessed and enriched by His Spirit! Praise God! Brother Jared Nolen, with help from Sister Kelley Peters, Brother Ryan Peters, and several musicians led us each night in a wonderful time of worship-It was just great!
There is so much more that could be said, but to keep this blog from getting too long to be enjoyable, I will stop for now. But know that God truly blessed our camp...TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!
From four years ago when we had no place to go, and very little money, so we had camp in tents in the field behind TCOG in Mayfield, KY...to now, when we have money in the fund, and all kinds of people to come and help us...it's just awesome what God has done for our region! Thank God!!
So, the Monday after camp, I had surgery on a hernia in my stomach. Small, outpatient surgery. No big deal, right? Phooey! Recovery has been so painful!!! I have been shocked by the amount of pain, soreness and bruising! Good grief!
But anyway, with all your prayers, I have improved a little every day. Thanks for the prayers, and Thank God!

Up late...too exhausted to sleep

2010-07-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Boy, have we been burning the candle at both ends this week, with camp next week, surgery the week after that, and currently deep in the process of purchasing our first house. Yes, that's right. Our first house!! After thirteen years of marriage, having lived in a tiny trailer, two rental houses in E'town, KY, a parsonage in Raceland, KY, and a third rental house-this one in Richmond, KY-it appears that we are finally going to be able to purchase a house of our own! Thank God! If it is His will, we will soon have our place. It has been an excruciatingly long year, and a frustrating house hunt. But, we will meet with the realtor tomorrow to make the offer, and Lord willing they will accept. If it is not His will, then we don't want it anyway.But, I feel really good about this one. A nice little brick home in Bardstown, the oldest town in Kentucky, and just a few miles from where we pastor. We have learned so much in this house hunting process....whew, have we ever. Later this week, I hope to write a blog about all we have learned from it. It has been interesting, and eye-opening. Look for that one, it should be fun.
Anyway, I better run for nmow. I am up at 1AM, and I have to get up, drive two hours, preach...well, you get the picture.Oh, and by the way...check back soon for more blogs!

Camp

2010-07-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

Short blog tonight...working hard and burning the midnight oil on camp prep. We are trying to get the details together. I want to say more on this later, but let me just say this for now...I hope the fact that so many of our churches don't have any campers to send is not a reflection of what I think it is. I fear it is...God help us! Are our churches losing their youth? Man...I am just devastated at the thought that we have lost so many kids the last few years.
Anyway, in spite of my fears mentioned above, we are getting ready for what I believe will be our most exciting camp in years! Our numbers look like they still might be pretty good. Everyone I have talked to is SO EXCITED! I believe we are in for something great from God! I really can sense that in the Spirit. Help us pray...and if you are ANYWHERE within a reasonable drive, COME TO CAMP!!! You won't be sorry!

The Return of the World's Worst Blogger

2010-07-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

Now for the news absolutely NOBODY has been waiting for! I have decided to take up blogging....again. Yes friends ( if I have any left) I, Donnie Estep II, the World's Worst Blogger, have decided to make a return to the world of people who always have something to say....even when we have nothing to say.That's right. I'm blogging. Excited? Didn't think so. It's ok. I have low expectations and no ego. Ok, so I have an ego. But not a huge one. Ok, so it's a little big, but I've seen bigger.I'm actually quite humble. Ok, that's a joke. I always say never believe anyone who tells you how much humility they have. I digress. Back to the subject at hand, my decision to blog again.
It appears that I am going to be working considerably less for a few weeks, as I have suffered an on the job injury. I am currently on restricted or light duty as I have an umbilical hernia. Very soon, I will be undergoing a surgery to fix the problem. So, I will not be able for a while to work my standard 50 to 60 hour weeks. Instead, until surgery I will be working roughly 40 hours (part time, right? ). After surgery I will be resting up for four to six weeks. I don't particularly enjoy light duty or resting after a surgery, but I need to get this repaired so it doesn't get worse. I need to be able to return to hard work. It's sort of what I do for my living.
Having said all that, it seems I will be having some extra time on my hands for a while. What to do, what to do? oh, yeah....I could blog. It is free. It is low impact. I seem to be able to ramble endlessly at times. I think I may even have a few things to say.
So here I am...

Another Productive Day

2009-04-27T19:25:00.001-07:00

Today was another beautiful summer-ish spring day in beautiful Kentucky. Once again, my wife and I had a very productive time, cleaning and organizing. I thought it was funny when I read about the Horne's cleaning the shed, etc on Sister Becki's blog. Amazingly enough, although my office is not new, I also put a lot of my books, etc. into my office from the storage shed. We got BOTH our storage sheds cleaned out and reorganized all our stuff(junk). We put the Christmas decorations ( all three of the trees we own plus umpteen boxes of decorations, etc.) and all our yard sale items for the upcoming sale in the lower shed, down the hill from our house. My tools, fishing rods, painting supplies, ball bats, camping supplies, etc. went in the upper shed, near the house. Got almost all my office items and books, some of which had been in storage for nearly three and a half years, in the office to be unpacked. Found some books and old church items I had forgotten about. Plus there are about fifteen boxes of books my dad handed off to me last fall. I think there are three hundred books or so in that bunch! Awesome! He has had close to two thousand at the height of his personal library. I am probably closing in on five hundred, three of which I've read.(that was a joke, honest).
We also got both air conditioners in the windows of our little house.It is much cooler now, thankfully. In addition to that, I got a chance to do a little planting. I got my main flower bed done Saturday morning, but tonight I got some potting done. I got my Early Girl tomato plant and the hot banana papper plant in small pots. Then I planted a very nice Hosta in a large pot on the side porch where it can get a little sun, but not too much. I also painted an old metal watering can with red spraypaint, and planted a pretty white flower I forget the name of in it, and placed in on the front porch. It looks very pretty with the little stool and table we painted red. Kind of a semi-distressed look. We have maybe decided against our initial plan to paint the porch swing red. It is white now, but we keep some "Americana" style pillows and throw on it. It looks nice. I repainted the porch Friday...I missed the old color by a bit. It was darker beige, but now is a lighter almond color. It looks good though. All in all, it was a very satisfying day.
I have enjoyed this month off work so much. I've spent a lot more time with my family than work usually allows. Just great...but tomorrow I go back to work. The hand is all healed up. It is still a little weak, but I can use it so back to work I go. Oh, well. I won't complain. God is so good to me, and my family is so wonderful...they are gifts from God.
I really should take more time to just realize how blessed I really am. I guess we all should, huh? Yeah...we should.

Great Day!

2009-04-25T20:27:00.001-07:00

So, My youngest daughter Taylor turns four this coming Tuesday! Yay! I love birthdays! I've told all that before so there's no need to go into it again. But let it suffice to say, I love birthdays! Since her birthday is on a weeknight, we had her party today. It was such a good day. The sky was clear and blue, the sun was shining brightly, and it was warm, not hot. Marsha and I have worked on the house and yard four three or four days this week to get things in top shape for company. Spring cleaning, right? Marsha Renee got the indoors clean, and sparkly, and smeeling good. Okay, she keeps it that way all the time, but it is a lot of work, what with the kids and dog. She also handled most of the shopping, and party prep indoors. I handled the outside. What fun. I would rather work in the yard than almost anything I can think of. I've been off work for a month and have done very little while recuperating from my surgery, so it has been awesome getting out and getting sirty, and sweaty, and smelly. Haha, I love it! I have mowed chopped, picked up limbs, pruned things, weedeated, ran the blower, cleaned up trash, mowed... oh man, it has been a great week. We got the place looking great, overall. At least the area right around the house. There is more to do over by "the holler". There is an area near the storage shed that I have allowed to really get grown up the last two years, There are three nice, mature apple trees in there, so I think my next major outdoor project is to clean that up, and get those trees in shape. I'm also considering planting grape and blackberry vines in that area. There was an old grapevine there once before. After that, I am working on a plan to build a goldfish/koi pond in the front of our place. A pator in the district has one, and I think it is awesome. He said if I will build it, he will give me some goldfish to get started. His are HUGE! Very cool.
So, anyway, back to Taylor's party. She has been excited about it for weeks! We really do go overboard and all for birthdays, but oh well. There is usually a weeks long build-up and then, because we normally hold the party the weekend before their actual birthday, then we hold the whole thing over until the actual day. Taylor helped us go and pick out her party decorations...Barbie princess themed for the girly girl. Marsha got her a great cake. So today, Taylor got all dolled up and wore her princess crown all day long! We had 20 plus people here and I cooked burgers and dogs on the grill. We ate outside, and Marsha set up cool scavenger hunt for the kids. Taylor opened up all her presents, including the doll who gets sick, and of course wets it's pants. Then we just sat around and enjoyed the day as the kids all played. It really was a great day. I go back to work Tuesday so this was a great day. Taylor is a beautiful baby doll, and her birthday was awesome. We sat around the farm with family until well after dark, just enjoying the last little bit of the day. Thank God for a beautiful time.

New Job?

2009-04-17T19:58:00.001-07:00

So, a friend of mine who used to be my boss has been trying to get me to come to work at his new employer. He was my supervisor at Stanley Steemer before they (wrongly) let him go last summer in a corporate shake-up/housecleaning. Well, after these several weeks off following my surgery, I have come to some conclusions. I like Stanley Steemer. The company has been good to me personally. They are as flexible as they can be in many situations with my scheduling. This doesn't mean I get a lot of time off, or even every request, but they often allow me to manipulate my day.s off to land on a certain date, when possible. They have treated me well, and put a lot of effort into my training. There is a possibility of a pretty good future wuth the company. My boss thinks I could become a good corporate "travelling" trainer, with my ability to handle public speaking and to communicate ideas. I am close to a promotion. Lots of good things. But here's the problem. For nine months of the year, I work alot. I mean it. A LOT. Sometimes fifty five to sixty hours a week, often six days a week. I work until 6 to eight most evenings during the summer and fall. And even though they are as flexible as they can be, often they simply can't be. I think they sincerely try. But as mentioned before, I have had to turn down several preaching/ministry opportunities just in the last month. Six, I think, to be exact. I am starting to get a lot of offers to go and preach, like I used to. It feels great, but then when I realize I can't go, it feels horrible. I have asked God before to give me a different job that wiil offer more freedom to work my local church, raise my family/enjoy wife, tend to my district and regional church responsibilities, and even go and preach some revivals, and camps when called. It seems impossible...BUT, my former boss called me last week. It seems there may be an opening after all at his new place of employment. Of the two possibilities there, one wouldn't make much financial sense. The other would be very good. A good move. I have been praying and trying to re-learn to leave it in God's hands. He has been working with me and teaching me a lot of lessons lately, almost as if He is getting me ready for something. I feel He is in this situation. Please, friends, help me pray for His will. There would be some sacrifices involved, financial and otherwise, but it would involve a schedule that would enable me to be a more active pastor, Husband,, Father, District Overseer. It would be a great thing...IF it is Gods will. If it is not His will, I don't want it. Help me pray, and may God's will be done.

The Piano

2009-04-14T10:33:00.001-07:00

So I've been a musician for nearly 20 years. I started playing drums one day almost on a whim. Doug Hogsten was preaching a revival at the church I was attending, Church of God of Prophecy in Versailles, KY. I was probably fourteen. After church one night, Brother Doug was playing the piano in that old Jerry Lee Lewis style that he loves. I believe he was doing his rendition of "Great Balls of Fire", called "Holy Ghost Fire." A couple of different guys tried to keep up on the drums, but no one really knew how. I thought "Hmmm...Why not?" So I sat down and picked up the sticks, and POW! I was keeping beat. Didn't even know I could! It was a bit choppy, and not at all great sounding, but it was obvious I might have some ability. Within a couple of weeks I was playing in church. I played for a travelling"weekend warrior" southern Gospel group for a couple of years. I've played a lot and was at one time pretty good. Later on I started playing guitar about the same way, then on to the bass guitar. My family is full of musicians on both sides. I'm no prodigy, but I can play a little and sing along or provide music for song service. But here I am at thirty four trying to learn the piano. I have four or five cousins, three aunts, at least one uncle, plus my dad who are all quite good. So it stands to reason that I might be able to play, right? WRONG. This thing is whipping me! It is the hardest thing I've tried to learn! But I'll figure it out...I think.

Rainy Monday

2009-04-13T19:38:00.001-07:00

So it's a rainy Monday in old Kentucky. Oddly enough, I don't get all gloomy when it rains like a lot of people do. Even when working out doors, I actually like to work in a light, steady rain. I don't know why, that's just the way I've always been. i have a bit of a slight melancholy turn to my personality anyway, so maybe the rain just suits me. Not that I never get tired of it, but a few days here and there is just fine. Now, thunderstorms on the other hand are a whole different story. I DO NOT enjoy thunderstorms. All the noise! Good grief, that really loud, sudden thunder really tweaks my nerves. Then there's the lightning. I don't trust electricity anyway, and that much of it coming from the sky, seemingly at random...ugh-none for me, thanks. I'll be having the nice, calm light rain. I don't particularly like seeing things destroyed, either, so that's another reason to dislike major storms. I guess for all my boisterousness and general noisiness, I'm actually just sort of a calm guy. I like calm things.
Having siad that, as contradictory as it sounds, I also love it when my girls,and Marsha and I can just let loose and get rowdy. Our house is a rather rowdy place. We jump, holler, wrestle, dance, and laugh 'til we can berley go on. My wife, and both daughters have these amazingly deep, loud, from the gut laughs that I never get tired of hearing. As time goes on, and they have heard all my jokes, and seen all my best antics, I am forced to continually find more and more goofy things to do and say to get those wonderful, happy noises to come out of them. It's an addiction. I cannot go very long at all without hearing it.
(took a break for a couple of hours to do other things)
Had a couple of good conversations by phone today. One with Brother John Talley, a member of TCOG at E'town. I was his pastor for three years, poor guy, and he is one of my closest friends. Brother John is the builder who is heading up the effort to finish our General Headquarters building in Charleston, TN. He informed me that things are going well, and gave me some updates on the progress. I may go down there with him for a couple days later this week. It would be nice to travel with my old friend and get to see some others. I haven't seen my old buddy Bishop Ard for a while. I really miss that guy. Maybe I could sit with him for a while and remind him how good a pastor I was to him when he was our overseer! Ha Ha. Some time I will share some funny Brother Ard stories on here...he is one of my favorite "funny story" subjects. Brother Talley also told me things were great at E'town yesterday for Easter sevices.
Later on I spoke with Brother James Hargraves, our pastor in Greenup,KY, and his wife Sister Barbara. He shared how great their services were. They had 31 in Sunday School! COnsidering they were operating with no pastor just a couple of short months ago, this is a great blessing! Thank God! Brother Shane Wilcox told me they had 70 in Sunday School, and 85 in morning worship at Sturgis, KY!! Praise God! I need to cal Brother Hamilton in Somerset to get an update from him. All these churches, except for Sturgis, are in my district. I am very excited for what God is doing!Please pray for us! We also had a great time in Winchester yesterday. God blessed us with 17 in Sunday School, and even my dad was there! God is so good!

Random Notes...

2009-03-25T18:19:00.001-07:00

So here's a little rundown of the last few days/weeks. There has been plenty going on, some good, some not so good. First of all, God has been good to us, as always. That should come as no surprise to anyone. He is always great! Our services at church have been very good for awhile now, starting at District Convention, going through revial, and still going well. We, as a church have been teaching, preaching, and studying subjects directly related to the foundational doctrines of the church. Some things from the 29 Prominent teachings, as well as some other subjects such as the One Fold. I think it is healthy for any church to be as well versed as possible in the fundamentals of our faith. We were challenged a while back when our Victory Leaders Band (youth ministries) director spoke about the need for each of us to have a working knowledge of what we believe so that we could at any time give answer to those who do not understand or who question what we believe. It has been eye opening and a real blessing for all of us, and we are all learning so much. Thank God!

Nothing much going on...

2009-03-16T16:58:00.001-07:00

So there ain't been much happening that would probably be of interest. Things are good at church. We had a good revival a while back. That would be interesting, I'm sure. Brother Matt Wright from Sturgis, KY was here. He is a good fellow. Known him for a while. We had one to be saved in the Saturday night service. A young girl, about twelve-ish. It really was a good revival. Last week on Saturday night I was invited to preach the word at a local pentecostal church. It is the same church we used for our District Convention. Very nice people. They were great to preach to and they fed us. I enjoyed that. They do not currently have a pastor, so the leader there suggested I add myself to the rotation of preachers who come and preach once a month until they find a regular pastor. I may well do that.
In other news, we are getting ready for a Spring Sunday School campaign. My wife is our superintindent. She is new at it and is doing a really good job. She plans well, and works hard. We are hoping to beat our current SS attendance record of 24. Please help us pray that we can get as many people to church as possible to hear the word. That is so important to us. We really want to be a soul-winning church!
In home news...everything is going pretty well. We are healthy. The girls are doing great. Haley just finished her basketball season, and we are all looking forward to softball season. Also, Taylor is playing t-ball this year. I can't wait to see them play.
Marsha is doing well. She is thinking about going to school. I think she would do well, and hope it works out. We'll be praying for direction about that and other things.
I have been getting so many calls to go and preach lately. It's great because that is where my heart really is. I want to be able to go. I miss the days when I could go most every time I was asked. With my job, nowadays I just can't. Sometimes I can. But mostly I can't. I don't have enough vacation time, I also have regional responsibilities, and the church work, locally and district. My job requires sometimes 50 to 60 hours per week. It is hard to keep up, as it is. Now, it is really frustrating to have to miss out on all the opportunities to go and preach. Work is going good. I am up for a promotion maybe very soon. But, honestly, I really need to be more active in the ministry. I prayed for most of last year that God would put me in a better employment situation so I would be more available in the ministry work. The answer seems to keep coming back the same way. God seems to have me where I am for a reason. I don't understand it, but am trying my best to abide in His will. Sometimes I wish we could just go out somewhere else and pastor. But, honestly, I do't think that is the answer. Our little church has only three families. We couldn't feel good about leaving them, as it takes what all three families of us have to keep the church going. We are happy where we live. Maybe if we could see some substantial growth here I could switch to a less demanding job. I don't know the answer. God does, I know. I am still praying that somehow He will get me in a situation where I can give more time to His work. If anyone reads this, please help me pray.

Great Convention!

2009-02-07T17:15:00.001-08:00

We had such a great convention. Thank God!! He is so good to us. The preaching and singing were so anointed, and such an encouraging spirit was there. Our new church in Somerset (just organized in December) was there in force!! All but one member, I think, was present and they fell right in like they'd been right there with us all along! Their musicians played, their singers sang, and their pastor preached a great message on the church! Just great...
Brother Hargraves and Brother Flora also preached great messages, as did Brother Jernigan.
We had a testimony time, and there were several testimonies given of recent healings of Cancer!!! God still does it!! That should be no surprise, but I'm always tickled at how surprised we all act. He has not changed or lost power. Praise God!
During our special time of prayer for the sick, the Holy Ghost really moved and the people shouted and praised God. I truly believe that God did things for people during that prayer sesion that we will only realize later.
Great convention...thank God!

District Convention

2009-02-06T18:42:00.001-08:00

~~District Convention for Eastern KY is tomorrow. I'm very excited about it.~~ This will be the third convention since I became D/O. I always enjoy it. This time of year is a good time for people to get together and shake the winter blahs. We always seem to have a good convention. I believe this year will be as well. I felt led to ask the new ministers in the district to preach. Brother Hargraves is new to our district, but has been in the ministry for years. He recently, in the last couple of years came back to the Lord, and back in the church. He is a fine man. He and his new wife, the former Sister Barbara Smith, are working in our district currently at a mission in Corbin, KY. They are great people, and have a good ministry. I've heard the brother preach a few times and God has really used him each time. Old time church of God preaching, to be sure. Brother Herman Hamilton is the pastor at the newest church in our district, Somerset, KY. He first came into the church in 1948, and has been around KY, and the Cincinatti area in the ministry. He and his wife, and ten members came in and were organized on December 14th. He's a great fellwo, and I'm looking forward to hearing him preach.
I gotta close up for now, and get some preparations made for tomorrow. Pray for us...

What a week

2009-02-03T18:25:00.001-08:00

Man has the last week been hectic. Downright rough, really. Of course, the ice storm hit last Tuesday, followed by snow and more ice. More than 500, 000 people in Kentucky were without power for most of a week. I haven't heard the latest figure, but I know there are still thousands who have no electricity. Some have no water. I also know other states were hit hard. I don't pretend to believe that we were the only ones. My prayers have been and are for everyone affected by this storm.
Before I go any further, let me say this. (getting up on my soap-box). I have heard, seen, and read of people in other parts of the country who have scoffed at the notion that this storm was something to fear. We've been made light of in the mid-west and other places who have "real" winters. It has been stated that we are whining over this little storm...honestly. I have lived in Idaho, and Wisconsin. Both places can have pretty harsh winters. I saw several 20 plus inch snows in Wisconsin. Endured some harsh cold in both places. I would gladly take a 20 inch snow and let them have the 3-4 inches of ice that fell here. The destructive power is not the same. Snow is bad enough, but ice is by far the most destructive. Our road crews here have done a fantastic job here lately. But there is no real way to remedy the ice that falls on tree limbs, and power lines.
Anyways, none of the friends who read this blog have made those statements anyway, so I'm just venting, I suppose. anyhoooo...
In spite of all that, God has been good to us. We stayed warm enough, and had plenty to eat. By the end of the week my father-in-law was able to buy a generator, and we ran some lights and tv, and a space heater for the last couple of nights. It was so nice. My wife, and girls and I were able to spend a week camping out in the living room together, cuddling for warmth. We worked together and it made the thing so much more bearable. In fact we had some fun. A lot of laughs and sweet moments. The girls entertained each other without the aid of wii, or the tv. (Up to the point the generator arrived, at least). My wife's family live all around us on the farm here, and we all pitched in and looked after each other.My family also kept track of each other and looked after each other, even though we don't live as close by. It just feels good to be loved by your family. When they call or offer any kind of help...it just feels nice. I had some contact with some brothers and sisters around our region who were also enduring the same things as us. It made us not feel alone. Even my co-workers and I were calling and keeping check on one another. Folks you'd see out atthe station getting kerosene or other supplies were so friendly....There were definitely some blessings which came out of it all.
We're cleaning up now. I will try and post some pics soon. Our property is tore up! Trees and limbs and debris everywhere. I spent most of Sunday with the other guys on the farm here with chainsaws cutting up the limbs for Sister Wilcox to burn in her wood stove. We have a few piles of branches to burn in the gravel lot. Sometime during the course of things I managed to knock the running board off my truck. Oh, well.
Now things are getting back to normal. I even think we'll go ahead and try to have District Convention this weekend. We could all use a blessing.

3 A.M. Can't sleep...

2008-12-23T00:18:00.000-08:00

Well, here I am, at 3 in the morning blogging. Goofy, huh? I laid down with Marsha about ten intending to get back up when she went to sleep to do a few Christmas related things. One must sneak, you know, to get it all done. Well, I fell asleep and just woke up. I'm not going to do any sneaking. Not now. I got time. Christmas won't be here for...wow, it's almost here, eh? How cool is that? I really love Christmas! I've been somewhat Christmasy, but today and yesterday it's really has hit me. The last couple of days, me and my baby girls went out twice to shop for mommy. Just awesome!! They are the coolest little people...can't even describe it. So funny, so insightful. Being with the two of them just makes things fun. It was especially fun because we were doing something for the person all three of us love the most...their mommy, my sweet little wife. It was a bit of a risk, I know. I knew it going in. I knew Haley, the older one, wouldn't give away a secret. But, the younger, Taylor...who knows with her? She may well tell her mommy what we got her for Christmas. We've had several very serious conversation about the importance of..who am I kidding? How serious and meaningful can that conversation be with a three year old? Good giref! She almost have something away at lunch today. We were sitting around together eating grilled cheese I made (oh, yeah, I make a great grilled cheese...it's tougher and more involved than it sounds...) and she first tells her mommy she won't say a thing, then turns around and lets half of something slip out! Then she looks at me with that little mischievous grin of hers...silly kid. What's she trying to do, ruin the whole balance of things? Man...
By the way, my wife spent her day doing something I think is great. She spent nearly twelve solid hours baking, and putting together Christmas gift baskets for our families. Money is a little tighter for us, like everyone, this year so she is giving something truly personal and from the heart this year. She has made loaf after loaf of sourdough, and Amish cinnamon bread; peanut butter rolss, peanut butter balls, chocolate covered pretzels, and some other goodies. She has really worked hard and the baskets look so pretty. I'm very proud of what she has done. She's the best.
Gotta run...getting a bit sleepy.

Christmas Play, etc...

2008-12-22T04:26:00.001-08:00

We had our local church Christmas play yesterday evening. Things really went well. First, yesterday morining we had a nice service, with Christmas carols, and I read the Christmas story. I always love to tell that story. Earlier in the month I took us through the foundational parts of the story. I started with some Old Testament prophecies, than went into the parallels in the lives of Zacharias, Elisabeth, and Joseph and Mary. They each had their encounters with angels acting as God's messengers. They each had either fears, or concerns which were put to rest by the angels encouragement. I love the part of the story where Mary visits Elisabeth and the Holy Ghost moves. In the Spirit, John recognized Jesus. Such a beautiful story. Anyways, we finished off with each one in attendance (those who wanted to) sharing a special Christmas memory, or something that makes this time special to them. It is always really neat to hear peoples different perspectives about Christmas and family. It was one of those things that is possible when you have a smaller congregation.
So, last night we held the Christmas program. It is one we got from a Sister in the church down in Alabama, Sister Washburn. It was really good. Since we are so small, we have to find something that can be done with a few people. Counting me (narrator) and the director, we had six people. That is our entire congregation!!! So when we plan something like this we invite EVERYBODY!! We have this fear of putting on a program for ourselves. Poor Brother Junior stands the chance of being the whole audience! Fortunately God blesses us every year with a good crowd. Our families kick in. We were a little disappointed, honestly that neither mine nor Marsha's family were with us. They had other plans, either at their own churches, or otherwise. That's still hard for us to swallow at times. But our church family is so good, so that helps. We had twenty-four in attendance! That equalled our attendance record! Brother and Sister Hargraves came up from Corbin mission, and Sister Betty Fowler and her son Jonothan came down from Greenup. That along with a bunch from the Lane family, and we had our crowd! Thank God!
Something we work hard at in our little church is not getting a cae of "small-church-itus". That is where you always say "We just can't do _________ because we are just too small." Our people are gamers. We just go ahead and find a way to do it! God always provides what we need.

Tired...so much for a day off

2008-12-16T19:32:00.001-08:00

It's been cold and messy around here today, so I didn't get out and circulate much. I did go out to get some supplies for my bathroom project. I'm repainting and helping redecorate our bathroom. Trying to get it done before the Risch's come for New Year's.When I got home, I ate some lunch at the in-laws, then ate most of a can of Royal Dansk butter cookies with the girls. Then I took a nap. By that time it was past four o'clock, so I thought it would be a great time to start prepping to paint!! Woohoo!! I actually got a lot done. I've trimmed and rolled on two good coats. The next couple of days I'll fill holes and cracks and do some other minor repairs before putting on the final coat and adding a fresh coat of semi-gloss white to the woodwork. Then I have to put all the towel holders, and mirrors, etc back in place. We've already bought pretty much everything we need other than a new curtain for the window, and a new rod for the shower curtain. After that I'm gonna clean the tile and color seal the grout. It's gonna be real nice.
Next project is Haley's room.
Anyways, I'm pretty tired, and think I'll probably hit the hay pretty soon.

Winter Storm

2008-12-16T06:53:00.001-08:00

Well, yesterday was another twelve plus hour work day. I don't mind the work. I've discovered that I'm actually something of a work-a-holic. When I have days off where I don't do anything at all, my nerves really get raw by end of the day. It's crazy. As a day off approaches, I'll keep telling my wife, I don't want to do a thing all day long. Then if I try that I get in the worst mood! I have to do something! That's not a bad thing. I'm not lazy. That's good, right? I need to remember how to relax, though.
My weight is up again, and with my back and ankle problems, these long days are getting to me a bit more than they used to. Plus I turned thirty-four last week. Old, right? Not really. I'd say I feel old, but how would I know how that feels. I take each birthday as a great blessing. Turniong thirty four means I didn't die at thirty three! I'm thirty four, I've been married to my dream girl for nearly twelve years. I have these two amazing daughters who are eight and three. I have been blessed to work for God as a minister for over ten years. I have some great friends. All in all, I'd say I'm pretty blessed. Everything has not happened like I thought it would, but it has happened right, I think. God is good to us. He gets better all the time!
So anyway, there is a winter storm "event" going on here. That's what the weather man calls it. An event. Some ice, some snow, some freezing rain. Don't even ask me what the difference is between ice and freezing rain. Once it hits the ground, I think it's pretty much the same. I'm gonna get out in my big 4x4 later and slide around. But don't be fooled. The thing can climb our hill fine, but on the main roads at thirty or fourty miles per hour, the black ice doesn't care how many wheels you have. But at least I know I won't get stuck!

Good Things Happening in the Eastern KY District

2008-12-14T19:15:00.000-08:00

So our district is blessed! We have had some exciting things brewing for a while now, and I have been working so much that I haven't blogged in ages. But here I am to tell about it all! Here is the update...
In Elizabethtown this morning a young woman who had been in backslidden condition for a number of years (since the late 90's, I think) came back to God. According to my source she same up for prayer and before long was weeping...God saved her, sanctified her, and filled her with the Holy Ghost right there! I know her family is overjoyed, as is she!
In Corbin at the mission this morning there were nine in attendance including a first time visitor. Thank God! We held a short revival there last week and Heaven opened up! It was awesome! In Winchester this morning we had ten, including my dear mother, who hasn't been able to attend recently because she has been working a lot of Sundays. Thank God she was able to make it today.
We went up to the Greenup church today for their Christmas program. It was great, and they beat their attendance record of 24, with thirty in attendance today! God is good!
The biggest news is that we had a new church organized today in Somerset, KY!! Praise God!! Brother Herman Hamilton and some others, ten in all, came into the church and our Overseer Brother Jernigan organized them today! Thank God for his wonderful blessings!
We expect many more things to develop in our whole region, as well as the Eastern KY District! God is moving for us! Thank God!!!

In other news, Brother Terry and Sister Sam Flora welcomed their second grandson into the world last week. He is a beautiful baby boy. He and his mom are healthy and doing great.
We are finalizing preparations for our local Christmas program in Winchester, KY. God is helping us and everything is coming together perfectly.

sigh...

2008-08-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well, here we go again! My wife's grandmother, Sister Wilcox, has been feeling not so good for a couple of weeks. She had fallen recently and caught herself on the stair railing, but hurt herself under the arm. Maybe in the ribs. She finally got in enough pain today, and could hardly breathe that she let the family take her to the er. Good grief! We have got to get a hold of God around here for all these ailments. There has been so much sickness in the family and our church lately! God, please help us to learn to trust in you, and to see some healings once again!!
God has already done some great things for us in the past year, but I want our faith to grow stronger and to continue to see more and more of His healing power!
Anyway, other than all the sickness around here lately, I am pretty excited over all about what God is doing! We had a great General Assembly, maybe as good as I've been a part of in a number of years! Our church is certainly on fire in Winchester, even if we have yet to see the growth we're praying for.
I am praying about a revival in September. I have an evangelist in mind, but will pray a few more days before I call him. I want to make sure I am on the right track, so I'll pray it through a little bit more.
In other news...
We are searching for a church van. We want to get involved in the ministry of bringing kids, and others to church who cannot othewrwise get there. Please pray for us that that can happen.
Gotta run for now, but will blog more..hopefully soon;)

My sisters surgery...

2008-08-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

went well. She is resting and should go home today. Thanks for your prayers. Please pray for my dad also. He just had heart cath and two new stints put in an artery. He called last night and is having heavy chest pains.

Pray for my sister

2008-08-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

My sister Janna is at the hospital with appendicitis. We know there will be a surgery, but the small hospital in our town is trying to find one of the bigger hospital's in the area that has a surgeon available immediately. Please pray for her.
Thanks

So, I am blogging now...

2008-07-30T21:05:00.000-07:00

Wow. We have had some major ordeal the last three weeks with my oldest daughter Haley. She, being all girly, and lady-like, thought it would be a good plan to climb the rail and jump off the deck rather than simply opening the gate which was ONE FOOT AWAY!!! Of course this was not the first time, but anywhooooo...she hurt her foot. We thought she had maybe sprained it. After a couple days of the swelling and pain getting worse we took her to the ER. The said no breaks, justa contusion near the growth plate, blah blah blah... We did all the things they said to do, but the swelling kept getting worse. Sometimes she would just suddenly shriek from the pain, even when sitting still with no weight on the foot. We were concerned, but she was supposed to follow up with her pediatrician after one week, so we took her in at the appointed time. Well, alby-dog, if she didn't have a staph infection! There had been no contusion, or it was minor. The fall is not necessarily even what caused her to be in pain initially. The doc thinks the staph got in through an open sore on her lower leg from a mosquito bite, possible when she was at the ER!(you do realize those places are filthy, right?)
Wel, anyways, the doctor decided it was only appropriate to completely traumatize us both, so he told us he would have to lance it. For those of you unfamiliar with medical terminology, that meas cut it open with a scalpel while the nurse and I hold down the screaming 8 year old. With no numbing by the way! I have never seen my Haley in so much pain, and hope never to have her in such a situation again. If she ever is, God forbid, I hope i can be beside her to hold her again, but seriously, I pray she never has another experience involving so much pain. He literally sliced her open, and began mashing the huge boiul with his hands and fingers to try and force all the pus out. It hurt her so bad, and she screamed and kicked and even reached for the guys neck a couple of times! Haley is so passive that this really surprised me, but it just shows how badly she was hurting.In my heart I felt like "If this guy is hurting my baby this much, I should be throwing him out the window, or something. But of course I knew it was to help get the awful infection out of her body.
Thank God it is not the strain called MRSA, or one of the others which are resistant to treatments. It is nearly gone, but the doc said today that he is afraid there may be some inflamation near the bone, so please pray for her. If it gets bad again she will have to go to the infectious disease doctors. We don't want that, and why should it come to that anyway if we pray and trust God. He can heal her! We'll be seeing the doc Monday he said, if it looks worse, but he said if it doesn't look worse, not to worry, she'll be fine.
It has been tough for her. She and her mommy and sister didn't get to attend church camp b/c of it. First time ever. I was so lonely without them. More on camp later...gotta run.

Forever and a day...

2008-07-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Man has it been a while since I even looked at this blog, or what?!? I have been working so much and so hard that I have scarcely taken time to keep up with anything for sveral months now.I'd like to get involved again and do some blogging as lots of things have happened and there is plenty on my mind to blog about. I have been to Regional convention, two youth camps, and so on since last writing. Maybe I can get caught up now.
We'll see, right?

REVIVAL!!!

2008-03-05T03:12:00.000-08:00

"We need revival to save our own soul." Lillie Duggar
Well, I am very excited because tonight starts our revival with Brother Brian Odell. Not only is he one of my best friends ever, but he is also a great evangelist. He has preached revival and youth camp for us several times, and always does a great job getting in touch with God for the message the people need to hear. Pray for us, we are inviting people from all the various groups which have come out of the troubles in our region the last few years as well as many backsliders and whoever else we can get a hold of. We need anoutpouring of the Holy Ghost.
I'll blog an update later...
Donnie

Holy Cow!! Has it been three months?!?!?!?!?

2008-03-04T03:18:00.001-08:00

Man... I cannot believe I have not been blogging for three months! Once my mother in law became sick, then Marsha's grandfather passed away, then well, you know. It got busy, I got out of the habit. Anyway...you get it. I have been working a lot. I still work at Stanley Steemer. I still pastor at the TCOG in Winchester, KY. Oh, and I am District Overseer of East KY. Plus I have started a small business on the side. I own some vending machines. It is cool, but I am soo busy. Anyways...
Life is good. God has blessed us us in so many ways. Our local church is excited, and we start revival tomorrow night with Brian Odell, from Moulton Alabama. So pray for us...
Talk to you soon...

New Website for TCOG at Winchester, KY

2007-12-13T06:39:00.000-08:00

Please take a minute to check out our local church's new website. It is a pretty cool site, and we hope it will be well received. Please pray for our local congregation as we are very small and have had some struggles. We have good unity and good services, but we feel a strong need to grow in Christ and get involved in true evangelism-winning tyhe lost!
God bles ytou and thanks. Here is the link...
www.tcogwinkentucky.com
Also thanks for the prayers. I have not been blogging because we have been going through a lot. My mother in law, Joy, is doing pretty well, all things considered. She has advanced ovarian cancer. She has been pretty sick, and has now had her second chemotherapy treatment. She has had a lot of strenght the past couple or three weeks, but not much stamina. She has been going to church every time she can and has been out for visits with family, a little bit of Christmas shopping, and even went to the local Christmas parade with us and the girls.
Also, Brother Clarence Wilcox, my wifes grandfather, passed away on December 2, 2007. He had been a minister for well over forty years, and in fact was my pastor when I was called to preach. He taught me a lot in those early days and remained a friend right to the end. He and his dear wife have welcomed me into the family, and treated me as if I were a blood related grandson. It's ben a tough few weeks around here, but we are muddling through with the help of God. Pray for my wife and the family, especially Sister Wilcox.
God bless you all and thanks!

Prayer Request

2007-11-03T21:01:00.000-07:00

Hey, I'm posting tonight on behalf of my wife. Her mother, Joy Wilcox, has been in the hospital for a couple of days. She had been sick for a while, and went to the ER on Wed. night. After some tests, etc, it has been diagnosed as Overian Cancer. The doc says it is worrisome, and that this type of cancer is dangerous because it doesn't show many symptoms until it is already advanced.
Please pray for her. She is a precious lady, with a heart just filled love for everyone. I've often heard people complain and make harsh jokes about mother-in-laws, but I always make sure they know that I have the best. I have no complaints, only love and admiration for Joy. Our hearts are broken because she is sick, but we are trusting God for a healing. He is the Almighty God! Please help us pray.
Brother Donnie, and Sister Marsha

Quote of the Day

2007-10-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a really good quote from the book I am reading. it was found in a chapter about being a "pace-setter". The chapter talks at great length about Nehamiah, and others from the Bible who acted based on what God said, regardless of the unpopularity it garnered them. The statement quoted was originally made by one Thomas J. Watson, Jr. at one time the chairman of the board for IBM.
"Strangely, the expounders of many of the ideas of history were frequently considered on the lunatic fringe for some or all of their lives. If one stands up and is counted, from time to time one may get knocked down. but remember this: A man flattened by an opponent can get up again. A man flattened by conformity stays down for good."
Think on that.

Finally, KY Gets Some Rain!!

2007-10-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, we arer finally getting some rain around here!! It has been such a dry year, but finally some meaningful rainfall. Around 5 or 6 inches had fallen the last couple of days last time I heard. That is awesome. Not necessarily a drought buster, but it is a big help. The temeratures are still moderate enough that we could still get a littl;e grass growth out of it. It will help the vegetation, and livestock. Carpet cleaners, on the other hand, are starving. We don't get much regular work on rainy days, and if you string a few of them together like this, it can get pretty rough on the paycheck. But that is ok. God knows our every need. He will take care of us.
I've got the whole afternoon to prepare for church tonight. To anticipate what God will do for us! He is so good. He has been really working with/on me lately, showing me some things in the scriptures and seemingly really awakening a spiritual hunger within me. It's a good feeling. I feel He is preparing my family and I for something. He knows, and we are trusting Him.
Brother Jernigan is coming to service tinoght for a visit. I love to spend time with the Jernigan's. They are a great fit for our region. Plus, I really love to hear him preach. I know the service tonight will be a blessing!
Gotta run for now...
God bless!

The Consequences of Sin

2007-10-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

I've been reading through an old book of Bible lessons and ran across some interesting thoughts about sin, and it's consequences. By no means are these all the consequences, but here are a few sin results which may affect local churches which are in sore need of Revival, as many are.
I It Seperates from God
As shown in the book of Joshua, the Israelites had enjoyed a great walk with God for some time before they came to AI. In chapter 3, God had brought them across Jordan miraculously. In Chapter 6 He gave them the city of Jericho. He was with them. They were walking in a way that was pleasing before the Lord. But then sin was found in the camp. Immediately they lost the favor of God. They went up and lost the battle. It was not that God could not give them the city. He was as capable as ever, but the good fellowship was hurt by the unfaithfulness found in the camp. Listen to Isaiah 59:1, 2 " Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear."
II. It Weakens God's People
One man, Achan, was the transgressor. Yet the sin weakened the whole people. The whole body was held responsible, and Gos had them all lined up so that the sin could be revealed. The people had to stand against sin, not merely weep and moan over it. "...the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies..." until they stood against sin and destroyed the accursed thing. When we are soft and indifferent towards sin, we become weak.
III. It Hurts Others
Not only did Achan hurt himself, but his family was destroyed with him. Often when people fall into sin, the consequences affect not only them, but also their families. Don't believe it? Ask the children of the alcoholic, or the wife beater. Ask the family of the unfaithful husband or wife.
IV. It Leads to Eternal Damnation
"The wages of sin is death..." Romans 6:23

Think about this...
"Revival tarries in many churches because there is unconfessed and unforsaken sin among its membership." Raymond Pruitt, in Disciplined Disciples.

Eventful week, busy weekend, what's next?

2007-10-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Wow has it ever been a busy few days! It seems like we just get busier all the time, but that's ok. At least we are not bored. Between PTO meetings at my daughter's school, and all the madness at my wife's work, plus a lot of late evenings at my job, we are just beat. Plus, I had a cousin to die last week. His name was Roy Glenn Overbay, he was 51. He died from an apparent busted aneurism(sp?). I was asked by my aunt to preach the funersl. It was on Thursday in Irvine, KY where my mom's family is from. I love it up there. It is a small country town nestled back in the KY hills. Just an awesome place to me. My wife hates it, of course. lol. but things went well, I guess, as funerals go. I never feel I've done enough in those settings, and with family it is double hard, it seems.

This Saturday was our regional Minister's Conventiuon, held at the church in Elizabethtown, KY. It was a good convention, actually, I think it was great. I will be writing a full report for our Regional papaer, and website, and will also post it here. That's one new thing that happened there. I was appointed Regional Reporter. It was unexpected, but I'm pretty excited about it. I enjoy writing, when I have time, so it is cool.
By the way, our new regional website is up and running, and almost complete. It is named after our new regional paper, Visions of Hope. The web address is visionsofhopetcog.com
Brother Shane Wilcox, our pastor in Sturgis, KY is in charge. He has done a really good job putting it together. It will be a useful, regularly updated site that will have plenty of useful, up to date info for anyone interested in our region. There is a page on there for the youth camp proigram, as well. Our report for the camp, plus over 100 pictures are on there. Brother Shane is also working on getting some video on there from camp. Pretty awesome, really.
Well, I gotta run. Lots to do.
God bless you...
Brother Donnie

Devotional Thought

2007-09-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

I have been using my old stand-by, Charles Spurgeons "Morning and Evenings" devotional book, as a way to start and, when I remember, end my days. He was a great writer, and I believe a man of God. I really enjoyed this morning's devo, so I thought I'd share it here...
""Be ye separate." --2 Corinthians 6:17

The Christian, while in the world, is not to be of the world. He should be distinguished from it in the great object of his life. To him, "to live," should be "Christ." Whether he eats, or drinks, or whatever he does, he should do all to God's glory. You may lay up treasure; but lay it up in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves break not through nor steal. You may strive to be rich; but be it your ambition to be "rich in faith," and good works. You may have pleasure; but when you are merry, sing psalms and make melody in your hearts to the Lord. In your spirit, as well as in your aim, you should differ from the world. Waiting humbly before God, always conscious of His presence, delighting in communion with Him, and seeking to know His will, you will prove that you are of heavenly race. And you should be separate from the world in your actions. If a thing be right, though you lose by it, it must be done; if it be wrong, though you would gain by it, you must scorn the sin for your Master's sake. You must have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Walk worthy of your high calling and dignity. Remember, O Christian, that thou art a son of the King of kings. Therefore, keep thyself unspotted from the world. Soil not the fingers which are soon to sweep celestial strings; let not these eyes become the windows of lust which are soon to see the King in His beauty--let not those feet be defiled in miry places, which are soon to walk the golden streets--let not those hearts be filled with pride and bitterness which are ere long to be filled with heaven, and to overflow with ecstatic joy.

Then rise my soul! and soar away, Above the thoughtless crowd; Above the pleasures of the gay, And splendours of the proud; Up where eternal beauties bloom, And pleasures all divine; Where wealth, that never can consume, And endless glories shine."

Written by Charles Spurgeon
Hope you enjoy it, too.
Brother Donnie

General Assembly

2007-09-03T19:39:00.001-07:00

Well, I only was able to attend two sessions of the GA this year, but I must say I was very pleased with hop it went! I had been hearing good things all week, both by phone, and by reading Sister Becki Horne's updates on her blog(Thanks Sister!!). But I was was still concerned. I half expected to walk in the door and feel more of the same old tension that we've had for several years now. Well, I am pleased to report that it wasn't there!! Or at least, if it was, I couldn't detect it. It was such a calm, easy spirit, yet exciting at the same time.The singing was great and Spirit filled, Brother Smith did a good job moderating the service. The preaching I heard was great! All the ministers preach with a lot of boldness...some very stout preaching, indeed, and just what the Holy Ghost ordered, I am sure! I needed to hear it. My good buddy Brother Brian Odell preached a great message, giving some rock solid biblical support for our Advice to Members, among other things. Brother Rob Hawkins preached very strong as well. He talked of smacking down the flesh...I left feeling like I am not the only pastor out here who has been frustrated and is sick and tired of the fleshliness that we have been fighting within the church these last few years. Both of these men gave some good instruction for how to deal with this problem. Praise the Lord!!
I also enjoyed the WMB program (always do). Sister Bishop and all her helpers did a great job. I was especially blessed by Sister Vivian Campbell's testimony.
Brother Delbert Bock, who is a great fellow, I think, preach a great message and then the appointments were made. I was again very happy and relieved to hear that our Regional Overseer, Brother Jernigan and his dear wife will be with our region for another year. We love them so much and they have been a good fit for us up here. After all that had happened in our region, we didn't know if anyone would want us...who would come to this region? But they did, and they came with their arms and heart's wide open to us, and ours were to them as well. I believe it has been good for them and us. Maybe they needed us, too? I don't know, but I do know that God has put His approval on their leadership here. We have had an amazing year. We limped into the Regional convention in 2006, hurting, confused, some even growing bitter. But in 2007, the whole region came running in shouting the praises of our God who has kept us through so much! There is so much unity here now, and power, oh! the power of God!!
So, I left the General Assembly feeling quite good about things. We have a lot of work to do , and I'm ready to get at it! Praise the LORD!!
In other news, another young person from our great region was saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Ghost last Friday, at the General Assembly. During the Youth Program, I think. A teenage girl from E'Town. God is so Good!!!
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Boring Week

2007-08-30T18:48:00.000-07:00

Wow...It has been a slow boring week! We are missing the General Assembly for the second year in a row...well, we got there late last year, and will get only the two Saturday sessions this year. We had goten accustomed to being there for the whole thing when we were still in the full time ministry. It has been soi hard not being there to see our friends from around the world and worship together, The assembly is such a special time, and I am excited about the reports I've heard from friends who are there. It has been going great, I hear. Praise God for that! I am really looking forward to getting there Saturday. I need the fellowship and the good spirit. I can't wait to see my friends, the Odells. I haven't seen them since they moved to Alabama.
Anyway, we are leaving after we all get home tomorrow. My in-laws are riding with us, and afterwards we are all going to Gatlinburg together. That will be nice, too. One of my favorite places. (I love the mountains.) I hope the crowd there isn't totally overbearing.
Well, that's it for now...
God bless...

Weight Watchers Update

2007-08-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

Here is an update on my weight loss adventure. I just returned from my weekly weight watchers meeting. I lost 4 pounds this week!! Yeehaw!! That brings my total thus far to 22.6 pounds! Very cool. Yes, very cool indeed.

Great Times

2007-08-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

That is what we've been having in this region for months! God has been blessing The Church of God region of IN/KY/OH/ILL South!! Starting last winter at the Christmas Banquet weekend, right on through District Conventions, then an outstanding Youth Convention! This year's Regional Convention, held in Elizabethtown, KY at the local church there was amazing! Every song, every message, every boost...just every moment was fantastic! We had all sort of limped into convention in '06, but not in '07. It was obvious that every one there had come for an Old Time Church of God Convention! God did not let us down! (Has He ever?) Brother Risch preached outstanding, as always. Brother Jernigan gave great, and timely instructions and encouragement. Sister Sharon Griffin preached what I fell may have been the most powerful message I've personally ever heard her preach. I've talked to others who agree. (Sis Sharon is always a blessing, but this was even above and beyond! Awesome!) Brother Bill Jordan preached great and he and Sister Joyce sang some great songs. The Smiths were there and were a blessing as well. It's been a while since a General Overseer has been able to visit with us in convention, so that was a real treat! Brother Warriner was inspiring as always. Sister Leandra Morris did a superb job...I'm rambling aren't I? Nah...just bubbling over with excitement about what is happening in our region. After all we've been through, we are ready to move forward and this excitement is just what is needed to give us the boost.
All that and I didn't even mention Youth Camp. Just awesome. I've been hearing some good reports from some who were there...young kids who are really living for Jesus now. It's incredible. To God be the Glory!
Great times. Great times.
Brother Donnie

Finally!!! Youth Camp Report...Woohoo!!

2007-08-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

Thank God for His presence in our Youth Camp this year! He was with as always…He has never, ever let us down. We were very concerned about camp this year, because it felt very much like a “rebuilding” year, and none of us knew quite what to expect going in. But as the time for camp grew nearer it seemed that everyone who was involved began to feel a very high level of anticipation for what the Lord would do at this camp this year. The theme was to be “A Life Changing Experience.” Truly the camp turned out to be just that for everyone involved! God brought us together at a little campground outside Aurora, KY and did things for us there that have changed us each in ways too numerous to even tell. I sincerely believe that there were changes made in our hearts and lives that will affect us forever! Even things which will make a difference for our local churches and this great region as a whole! Praise God! At the end of the report will be a list of totals for attendance, experiences, etc., but first I‘d like to give the following testimony…the story behind the totals, I suppose.
Youth camp is always a special time of fellowship, and fun. This year was no different. Old friends who have worked this regions camps for years got to gather and reminisce about the good times in the past, and work together to make great memories for the future. New faces, some who had never worked in camp before at any time got to join in and find out what a great experience is in The Church of God. There was one sister who had only been to camp one time, as a child. She is fairly new to our region and when she first arrived, she seemed a little nervous and unsure of just what to expect. But by the next morning she had caught the spirit of the thing and had become a part of Youth Camp. I believe she had a great time and will be back for many more great experiences just like the one she had this year!
Although we do not hold a “Family Camp“, per se, our Youth Camps do have a wonderful family atmosphere. Sister Christy Wilcox was another first timer and she was there to care for and teach the littlest campers. She watched over the young children, 5 and under who were at camp with their parents who were on staff. What a blessing! No one had to miss camp for lack of a baby sitter!
Brother Frank Lewis taught a class about being a good influence on others so that they too could find “A Life Changing Experience.” . Sister Cyndi Brown taught about changing from what we were, into the people God intends us to be. She used the analogies of Tadpoles becoming a frog, and caterpillars becoming a beautiful Butterfly to show that there should be no backing up, but rather a continual positive growth in our lives after we come to know Jesus. Brother Shane Wilcox, our boys dean taught a class about the origin and nature of sin, followed by a class by Sister Leandra Morris which showed “The Remedy for Sin.” A great presentation of the Gospel.
The Junior campers also enjoyed great Bible Lessons taught by Sister Sandra Montgomery, and Sister Serena Peters, as well as a wonderful craft class taught by Sister Vicky Morris, Sister Rita Talley, and Sister Cindy Peters.
Brother Frank Lewis led the group in some fun-filled daily activities, including flag football, a tug of war over a slimy mud pit (which I believe Brother Matt Wright from Sturgis, one of our boys cabin leaders, could‘ve won single handedly), and a HUGE water fight. Everyone had fun and there were no major injuries, thank God!!
Sister Leandra, and our cabin leaders, Brother Terry Flora, Brother Matt Wright, and Sister Phyllis Warriner and Sister Sam Flora did a great job with leading in us in devotions. Morning devotions were given each day by Sister Leandra, and cabin devotions before church were given by the cabin leaders. God really helped them to get everyone’s minds centered on Him. After all, isn’t that the point? We love to get together and have fun. I sincerely believe we have more fun at camp than anybody. But when the fun of the day is over, it’s time for the real reward! Thank God for the miracles he did in our lives at Youth Camp this year! It was truly a life changing experience!
I can honestly say that I am not the same. This experience has changed me, and brought me closer to God. I have relived in my mind the things that God did in that place ever since I got home. Praise God!
Friday night, after a delicious meal prepared by our amazing kitchen staff (Brother Doug, and Sister Teresa Letcher, Sister Beth Peters, Sister Melissa Moore, Sister Freda Moore, and Brother Gary Graves), we gathered in for our first service. God’s presence was there from the start. The Senior Boys and their leader, Brother Terry Flora came forward to lead us in opening prayer. Song service was a blessing as we sang God’s praises and He began to let us sense His presence. We had testimonies from our Regional Overseer and his dear wife, Brother and Sister Jernigan. They were a blessing as always. Then time came for the message. I was camp evangelist this year and preached a message from the text of John 3:16. That night the Spirit was so beautiful, and we had one young lady to be Saved. Praise the Lord!! The following night we had another good service with an altar call, but service ended with no experiences. Or so we thought. God was not finished. A young man met his cabin leader on the way out and as they talked he let him know that he wanted to be saved. They hit the altar together and many others followed. The young man got up with the testimony that he had been Saved! Thank God!! We all rejoiced and cried tears of joy with him as he gave this wonderful testimony of “A Life Changing Experience.”
The following day, many of the staff decided it would be good to fast a meal and have a special prayer time for Saturday night service. It would be our last night together, and although we were overjoyed that God had saved two young people, we all felt there were so many more who needed to let go and let God have control of their lives.
When Saturday night came, we set up church in the outdoor pavilion, a beautiful setting for the evening service. As soon as the moderator opened service, the power of God began to move. He asked that the staff line up behind the campers and begin to pray. We did and the spirit of prayer began to get ahold of one after another of us until seemingly the entire camp staff was overtaken by a holy fervor and a sense of urgency that now was the time to get ahold of God! Before long it began to spread to the campers. A Holy Ghost message with interpretation came encouraging us to hold on. An area pastor who couldn’t attend camp, but was with us in service felt the Lord giving him a message also, but that it wasn’t quite time to share it with the group. Instead he felt led to share it quietly with myself and a few others. It said “The I Am is in the midst of thee.” Truly it is true for the entire church of God, but that night it felt very personal. The I Am was there in the midst of that camp ground. There with us, for us. Praise God!! The altar filled up. Nearly every camper was in the altar or knelt by a chair experiencing firsthand the power of the Holy Ghost. The whole staff, from the cooks, to the teachers, to Brother Jan Montgomery, a camp go-pher, was having the time of their lives watching the power of God move on one then another, then another of the kids and adults. Brother John Talley, our camp photographer took over two hundred pictures as the Holy Ghost moved all over the place and everyone in it! More than one young person removed jewelry from their person and threw it into the woods. Children as young as seven, eight and nine prayed and sought God for themselves and others. One young girl, about nine years of age shouted, spoke in tongues, and danced under the unction of the Holy Ghost! A young boy about ten worked in the altar for over two hours with the power of God all over him! There was a teenage boy who has been to camp every year but had never to our recollection gotten in the altar. That night he was Gloriously Saved, Sanctified, and Baptized with the Holy Ghost!! One young girl was healed. One whole family was in the altar as one after another of their kids came up and prayed, several being saved that night! I wish I could tell you everything that happened in that place, but there was just too much. But know this…God did it. He did it for His people. For the lost, ,but also for the saved who needed to see it. To God be all the Glory for He did it! That weekend, that night, there were about 60 people out in the woods under a pavilion. 34 kids, and about 26 adults. The people in the nearby town didn’t know we were there. The neighbors didn’t know us from any other camp group who had been there. But God knew we were there. And He came by to give us a weekend that we will never forget. He gave each of us a life changing experience. “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” Amen.
Camp totals:
Campers 34
Staff: 26
Saved: 12
Sanctified: 10
Holy Ghost: 3
Healings: 1
Life Changing Experiences: Too many to tell!!

My wife and I want to give a very special thanks to everyone who came together to make this camp so special. It wouldn’t have been the same without any one of you. You are each closer to our hearts than we could ever express. Both campers and staff…Thank you so very much, and may God continue to bless you! I tried in this report to mention every staff member by name, just as a very small token of my personal appreciation. If by some chance, I missed your name, please forgive me. I love you, too, and thank you. That goes for you, too, Ben Brown, and Serena Peters, and D.J. Letcher, our Staff in Training
God bless you all…See you at Youth Camp 2008!!

Youth Camp Prayer Request

2007-06-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hey, folks. I am sending out a prayer request for our region's Youth Camp. We are very behind in the planning of this camp, mostly due to my own lack of time. I have been working nearly 70 hours per week and have struggled to keep up. Things have been falling in to place, thank God! I am trying not to worry. I know that God will provide. Please help me pray!
God bless you all...
Bro Donnie

Perspective

2007-06-20T20:38:00.001-07:00

You know, sometimes I have caught myself sort of wallowing in self pity because of the latest bad hand I've been dealt. I have occasionally in the past couple of years told my own sad story 'til even I have grown tired of hearing it. Then something truly devastating happens that hits just close enough to home that it puts things in perspective. The passing of Brother Damon is just such an event. I can't claim to have known him well, but have met him numerous times and seen him around the General Assembly and such for a number of years. I have known Sister Kasey for several years. As I sat tonight reading her blogs from the last cpouple of days, and reading the outpouring of love for her and Brother Damon, I began to cry. I'm still having a little trouble holding it back. Like so many others, my heart is grieved for her. I can not even begin to understand her pain. Suddenly I realize that while some of the things my family and I have gone through the last couple of years have been no walk in the park, there is simply no comparison. For lack of knowing what else to pray, I find myself every time the thought of it comes to mind just crying out, "O, God, please help her. Please be with her." And do you knw what? He will. He will. He is. He is there for every event of our lives, good or bad. God can take care of my puny little problems, and yes, friends, He can take care of Sister Kasey and this devastating thing that has happened in her life. He can do this, and all the while take care of the rest of Damon's family, the local church folks around there, who have endured their share of tragedies recently, to say the least.
"My God can do anything, Anything Anything. My God can do anything. He made the earth in all it's fullness, and as long as time shall be, My God can do anything." Do you believe it, friend? I do.
Sister Kasey, if you should ever read this, just hold on. Hold on to Jesus. He is with you.

Dear friend, whoever you might be, if you read these words, know that God is there for YOU. Whatever you face, He is there. He loves you. Though your situation may seem impossible, God specializes in things thought impossible. And He, friend, can do what no other power can do.
Whenever your problems just seem way too big, stop comparing them to yourself. Instead compare them to God. Next to Him, they just don't seem nearly as great.
Now that is perspective.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Weight Watchers

2007-06-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

So, I joined Weight Watchers today. Yeah, laugh all you want, but I did it. I went right in there and did it. Me and 30 or so fat people. I was the only man. Normally, I am not intimidated by crowds of women. I feel fairly comfortable with them, in fact. But I was nervous about the fact that these are food deprived women. Women who may not be thinking clearly as a result of their hunger. lol. They were, as it turns out, all very nice. Many were not at all what I would consider too fat. A few were actually in pretty good shape. They are the ones who are no longer "losing weight", but are lifers who are there for the moral support provided by the group. They are working to "maintain." God bless'em.
Honestly, I hope to be one of those at some point. Yeah, I know, I usually am talking up the virtues of being large, and eating my beloved corndogs with a cold coke, or maybe two or three microwave burritos....oh, man. I need to go back to the meeting. I felt very determined while there. It's odd what being with people who share your situation can do to you. I guess that is the point. I did get some inspiration from listening to the pretty good sized lady who has already lost 30 plus pounds and has earned I think five awards for having five pound weight loss weeks. She has taken control of it. I want to do that.
Now, I have never been the kind of guy who gets all bothered about being the biggest guy in the room. I kind of enjoy it in a way. I am 6'3" and 335...a big, strong guy. only I recently discovered that I am 6'3" and 361...whoa. Say that again, doc? No wonder I keep ending up in the ER with my blood pressure out of control. I ain't 25 anymore, and the extra weight ...well, it hurts my body. It is wearing out my heart.and driving my blood pressure to the moon. I rarely feel very good. I can't keep up with my kids. I'm not embarrased about being fat, but it is starting to interfere, not to mention the damage it is doing to my body.
Anyways...I hope to hit my first goal of losing 36 pounds.I need to lose 145 altogether, but I'll focus on the smaller number.Here goes...

Headin Out

2007-05-22T04:55:00.000-07:00

Godd morning...
I'm just about to head out for another glorious day selling top quality Frozen food to the lucky residents of Winchester, KY. Seriously. It won't be a mormal long day. If possible I plan to quit tonight by 6 o'clock. That may not happen, but I expect it will.
Been spending a lot of extra time in prayer lately. Trying to study more...trying to really get in shape as a Christian and a minister. I feel like something is right around the corner that will be exciting for The Church of God, and even for me and my family. I have a feeling of expectation. God is ready, I believe to do something with us. We want to work more for Him than we are at present. I believe He is about to answer that prayer. Thank God. Please help us pray that His will be done in our lives. We want that more than anything. We want this unsettled feeling to go away and be replaced with the feeling that we are in God's will...that He is pleased with where we are and what we are doing.
Gotta run for now, but God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Some pics of my girls...

2007-05-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of my beautiful family. Starting at the top...There is my mom and Haley. They are big buddies, as you can tell. Mom didn't feel well, but I was glad she came on to church anyway; Next is my good lookin' wife, Marsha Renee. I love her in that color. I love her in any color;There is Haley and Taylor. This one was mug shot practice for the ninja, I think. Kidding. There's one of Tay, followed by one of Hay, each with their little baskets huntin' for eggs; Finally there are the three loves of my life, after Christ, of course. As you can see, my life is filled with beautiful ladies. heh hehMy baby sister wasn't there that day but I'll get her on here soon. Dad, too. Not that he's a beautiful lady.

New Local Website

2007-05-07T20:02:00.000-07:00

Brother Shane Wilcox, pastor of TCOG in Sturgis, KY and Brother Matt Wright, a local VLB and minister there, have been working on a new website for the local church. It is already available, but is still in constructiuon. It looks to be a great and useful website to boost the local and district area work. God bless Brother Shane and Brother Matt for the work they are doing to further the spreading of the Gospel.
The wb site is...
www.thechurchofgodsturgis.com
God bless...
Brother Donnie

General Overseer Visits Local Church in KY

2007-05-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

On April 22, 2007 Bishop Stephen Smith and his wife, Sister Vickie Smith visited The Church of God in E'town, KY. Our local church in Winchester called off our local service to go and be with the wonderful E'town folks and the Smiths. It was a blessing to see both Brother and Sister Smith. They both have such a good spirit and seem to have a true heart to please the Lord.
Sister Smith blessed us with a song, and testimony. Brother Smith shared some things which are going on in the church and preached a great message about "A Boxed Canyon." He spoke of how it seems God will sometimes let us get into a situation where the only possible way out is to trust in Him. That is where we truly learn about "faith walking."
We used to pastor the E'town church so it is always a blessing to get to go and visit with them. We are trusting God to do some mighty things for them in the very near future. It is all in His hands. Amen.
May God bless the saints at E'twon, and may He continually watch over and bless our General Overseer Brother Smith and His family.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Later that night...

2007-05-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

So, this past weekend we went and got our girls a couple of kittens. I know. I generally hate cats. But a coworker had just become the not so thrilled owner of several kittens. So I thought."why not?"
They are adorable. Max, and Ruby. Ruby and Max. Ok, so that isn't funny if you have never seen that show. Great children's show. One of my personal favorites. It is about these two little bunnies, Bill and Maxine. Not really. But it is about these two bunnies, Ruby and her little brother Max. The show is cute and cuddly, but in a way terrifying. I have been watching it for nearly 6 years, since Haley was barely a year old. I have never, not one time seen their parents. I think they live alone! Ruby looks to be seven or eight, and Max is only two, but no mommy, and no daddy! Once in a while they get into a pinch and have to call Grandma over to give them a ride or a little money. Terrifying! But it is otherwise a great show. Anyways...
Haley was scared of the kittens at first. But not Taylor. The ninja knows no fear. She goes right over, chases one down and grabs it by the tail, neck, leg or whatever she can most easily get ahold of and proclaims "Look, I got it. I got the Katty. I got 'Wooby". " Haley has gotten over her intial fear. It didn't help that she was bitten the other day by some stray cat that has adopted the farm for his/her home. But now she has learned how to hold them, and does so constantly. Poor little things. After an afternoon of our two girls and three of their little girl cousins from around the other side of the farm, I fear they might die in the night of internal bleeding. (joke. No kittens or other animals were harmed in the making of this blog. I promise) But they were ready for bed time, to say the least. I'll see if I can get some pics on here some time. They really are cute.

Dark, but clear Monday evening...

2007-05-07T19:16:00.002-07:00

Just for you, Sister Smith, I have decided to rejoin the living, so to speak for a few minutes. I have started to blog so many times lately, but have been let hitherto.
At any rate, it has been a very satisfying Monday off for me. Had a great conversation with a dear Sister this morning with whom I hadn't had a chance to visit in far too long. She has been away from The Church of God for a while, but is making her way back. She is a precious friend and a great lady. I am hoping to see her and her mother this Sunday morning. It is a bit of a distance for them but I feel like they will make it. It was a wonderful blessing to just talk with her. We did some catching up and talked about the Lord.
In some other good news, a family of four in the E'town area has returned to the church!! Praise God! I won't go into a lot of details, the main thing is they have returned. That's two back in the fold! They also have two kids who are wonderful youth camp aged kids. A precious family, and dear friends of our family. Thank God! I also have been told on pretty good authority that there are more on the way. Good news! Amen.
I believe more now than ever that God is about to do some great things in our region. We have had a struggle, but He is in control.
I was not able to attend, but I heard some great things about our Youth Convention a couple of weekends back. Sister Leandra Morris from E'town was in charge. She is a great young lady. I used to be her pastor, but I can take no credit for what a good person she is. She was raised right, and God has really blessed her. She is also our regional VLB coordinator. I so wish I could've been there so I could give a detailed report, but if what I hear is a true indication, it must've been power packed. Our locals who attended are still riding high from it. I keep hearing about a message preached by Brother Brian Odell about "Encouragement ,and Discouragement." Praise God.
Catch ya'll Later!!

Rainy Saturday Morning

2007-04-14T04:16:00.000-07:00

Well, it's a rainy Saturday morning. I have had a splitting headache all night long, but still I managed to get some pretty decent rest, and I feel pretty good otherwise. I had a dream about some people I know whose pastor I was a few years ago. Not a bad dream, but one that sticks out for some reason. I'm not a guy who looks for some deep prophetic meaning in every dream. In fact my first instinct most times is to ask people what they ate right before bed...lol (come to think of it, I did have a microwave chicken burrito at about 10:30 last night...hmmm. It was just as disgustingly delicious as it sounds, by the way.) But I also realize, all skepticism aside that God can give us dreams and use them to give us a message, or whatever. I won't share the dream, because it would make even less sense here than it does in my mind, I'm sure. But the rest of the night I woke up periodically with these folks on my mind so strongly. I felt and still feel an urgency to pray for them. I don't know if something is up, or what. As soon as I'm sure the pastor/deacon is up this morning I am going to call.
It's been a good week. My wife and I celebrated our tenth anniversary Thursday. I had to work, but we spent some time together before and after work. She really is my dream girl. I am very blessed to have her in my life. We have a great marriage, and two amazing daughters, Haley and Taylor...aka Red and the Ninja. Haley of course is red...can you gues why? If you've seen the gorgeous little thing you can. Taylor is the ninja...there is no explanation of her. lol. She is pretty, sweet, and easily the most energetic, explosive, strong willed, and swwetest little baby around.
I am so blessed. I feel rich. Thank God.
I have to go to work now. In the rain. More later...
God bless...
Brother Donnie

The Church of God at Winchester, KY Update

2007-03-26T05:08:00.000-07:00

Hey, friends! It's been awhile, since I've been working just constantly. But anyway, I thought I would spend a little time on this beautiful Monday morning ( I'm off today...yay!) catching y'all up on some good goings on at our local church.
March has been a goodmonth for us here. After a January and February that were just too snowy and cold, things are warming up and we are all feeling better and excited about the Spring time. We missed a lot of services due to the bad weather the first two months of the year, but now we are getting back into full swing and services are getting better all the time. God is good to us, all the time.
Sunday the 18th we were in the opening stages of Morning worship when a brother who was feeling so burdened down asked for prayer, and while he and others prayed, I felt led to play and sing some songs. God gave the brother and his wife such a sweet victory and blessing as they prayed together with all the saints praying with them. We sang "Because H Lives" and felt such a sweet spirit. Friends, God is always near when we need Him the most. I included this testimony as a reminder to each one who reads it that God knows just what you are facing and is standing ready to bless you and fill you up to overflowing with His blessings! That night we had another good service, and I felt such a good anointing to preach on "These Perilous Times." I thank God for every opportunity to preach His word.
This month our local church has been the Church of the month at our local golden Corral restaurant. They let us decorate a bulletin board that is in the entry/exit area so that everyone who comes will pass by it and see it. We are praying that it will catch someone's attention. We are still praying that God will help us to win souls while we are here.
Yesterday we had twelve in SUnday School which is a little up from what we had been having the last couple months due to weather and sickness. There were two there tha are family to some of our folks. We have been praying that they would begin to come, and so they have begun! Now we pray they will continue and be saved. Please help us pray.
We are excited and hope to plan another Revival as well as a District meeting of some kind in the next couple of months, so keep checking back for reports. I know it has been slow going, but don't give up on me! I'll try and post more often.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

District Convention 2007 Eastern KY

2007-02-25T13:42:00.000-08:00

The Church of God Eastern KY District Convention Report
February 23-24, 2007
The Church of God
12 E. Broadway
Winchester, KY
This years convention was a great time in the Lord, and certainly was an encouragement to all. There were fifty in attendance over the course of the two days. Friday night service was held “Camp-meeting style” with the idea of having an “evangelistic” feel. God was moving from the start of the service as folks from around the district as well as around the region gathered in and prepared to enjoy the good spirit and feast upon the Word of God.
As service began, we were blessed with Scripture reading and prayer led by Brother Terry Flora, followed by songs led by Sister Sam Flora, with piano by Sister Fannie Hinton who attended from Sturgis, KY. Sister Phyllis Warriner boosted the Children’s Ministry and Sunday School work, and we were again blessed by a selection of songs by the District Gleaners.
Finally it was time for an evangelistic message by Brother Shane Wilcox, pastor of The Church of God in Sturgis, KY. He preached under a great anointing and shared from the word and the message was followed by a good time in the altar which was extended when the people followed a few of the ministers back into the congregation to pray for a young lady who was in sore need of a touch from the Lord. God was glorified by all as we prayed and shouted to His Glory! Amen.
Saturday morning we met again at just after nine am, and began to feel the blessings of God immediately as we prayed and sang God’s praises. Brother John Talley blessed the congregation as he testified, read a scripture and led us in prayer.. He has recently been through a major back surgery and had not been able to attend regularly for a few weeks, so this was a special blessing for him. As he began to cry and tell of God’s goodness a sweet spirit filled the room.
The good spirit continued as Brother Terry Flora took to the pulpit to preach an anointed message about obedience. Following his message was the VLB boost by Regional Coordinator Sister Leandra Morris. We were all blessed by the sincerity of both of these as they allowed God to speak through them to the hearts of the people. Thank God!
The next item on schedule was Testimony Time led by Deacon Josh Graham, pastor of The Church of God in Elizabethtown. Brother Josh blessed us all with his wisdom, and love for God, along with his obvious compassion for others. It was a blessing to hear his testimonies, and words of encouragement, as well as those testimonies shared by the others who spoke up to tell of God’s goodness.
Sister Phyllis Warriner then returned to boost the ABM work. Her tireless work for the various auxiliaries in the region has long been a blessing to us all. God bless Sister Warriner!!
After the ABM boost we went immediately to a message by our Regional Overseer Bishop Paul Jernigan. As always the message was anointed, exciting, and timely. He admonished us to be sober and vigilant because there are still trials ahead for the church. Included in the message was some good Church history to help put many current events in the proper perspective. We are reminded that we must obey God and do things His way, not man’s. Thank God for Brother Jernigan and his boldness in delivering what God has given him.
In the Saturday afternoon session, Sister Rita Talley led the congregation in singing, accompanied by Sister Barbara Hilton on piano. Once again, one could sense the love the people have for their God who has kept them through so much in the last year. Brother Barry Warriner, Regional Field Secretary came to the pulpit next and as always was a blessing to the people. He is another plain spoken preacher who believes in telling it like God gives it. Thank God for men like this who are such an encouragement to us, while also helping us to remember to put God first. Once again, it seemed that obedience came out as a theme.
The service was closed with an exhortation to pray, and work for Revival from both our Regional and District overseers. Our theme for the weekend was “Revive Us, O Lord.” We want so much to see this region fully revived and on fire for God like never before. Many thanks to God for His presence in our District Convention. Because oif Him, it was truly a success!

Attendance…50
Total offerings…$612.00
Reported by…
District Overseer, Donald R. Estep II

Hey...

2007-02-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone. Happy Sunday Morning. I love Sunday morning. Maybe it's the pastor in me. Maybe it's the kid in me who still loves going o Sunday School. Probably a little of both. I have loved Sunday School since childhood. It's a light, fun time, yet what a serious thiong it is that we are doing. We have so little time, comparatively speaking to gather and study the Word. Where our children are concerned, we have that one key hour per week, plus whatever Children's Church and/or Gleaner time a local church might use., to teach them. It seems that given that limted time for the local church to teach and train, maybe we ought to be pushing for more good Christian teaching and instruction at home. I know many of our church parents work very hard at this, but throughout my ministry, one thing I have noticed is that for every family that seems to do this well, it seems there are several more that place no emphasis on it at all. I want to do better and encourage others to improve as well. Our children need us to take this seriously. They need strong examples from us, but beyond that, they need us to lead the way in teching them the Word.
I have to go for now, but these are just some things to think about.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

It's Almost BIRTHDAY TIME AGAIN!!!

2007-02-09T19:49:00.000-08:00

Oh yes, friends, it is birthday time again at the Esteps house! Haley will be 7 on Sunday. I've already officialy begun the celbration with a rousing rendition of "Happy two days before your birthday to YOU!!!!" She returned the favor by wishing her mother and I a "Happy two days before my birthday to you" before bed time. Oh, boy...I do still love birthdays.
Haley is a special little girl. Not just because she is mine. She is both beautiful, and good hearted. She has always had a loving heart, and is compassionate towards everyone. She is my baby doll. My first baby daughter. (Of course Taylor is just as special, but I'll save that for her birthday...lol)
I have to go for now, but will be on tomorow night, Lord willing to post some pictures from her birthday party.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Good Meeting at Raceland, KY TCOG

2007-02-04T18:09:00.000-08:00

2/3/07
The Church of God at Raceland, KY met at the home of the Clarkes in Flatwoods, KY for a wonderful church service followed by some good food and fellowship.
Brother Terry Flora and I were there with about eight people from the area. There was a sweet spirit throughout the service. God is always faithful to bless His people when we meet together to worship Him. It was a blessing for Brother Terry and I to be with these wonderful, faithful people of God. We plan to be in service with them again on Saturday February 17, 2007. We expect even more of the faithful to be in attendance at that time. Please pray for the folks there that we could find a building and that God would send a pastor who could be there with them on a regular day to day basis.
God bless each of you, and thank you for your prayers!
Brother Donnie

Good gravy, it's cold...

2007-02-02T09:19:00.000-08:00

It is so cold in my house right now! Our furnace, which is a big ol' free standing gas burner, has stopped working. The pilot light went out and will not relight. My father in law, who owns the house replaced a part, hoping it would fix it, but it did not. I appreciate his effort. He is a great guy, by the way. The fix-it guy should be here around 3:30 today, I think. I'm praying for that guy. That he will be the one fix-it type who actually arrives on time, and has all the necessary tools and parts to fix the stinkin' thing. I hope he can even get here. Where we live, it is a near physical impossibility to get up our hill in a normal vehicle. I had to go to my new job this morning to sign forms and do the post hire paperwork (yay!), and I nearly did not make it back up onto the farm! I think I nearly finished off my already terrible, and badly balding tires. I know, bald is beautiful...NOT, HOWEVER, ON TRUCK TIRES! It's not bad here in town, but we live in the country. To get to our place, you go down a hill, up a very steep hill, back a gravel road, and part way down yet another hill. That's all after you leave the main road. Oh, and it's uphill both ways.
But anyway. I'm not bitter. Cold, but not bitter. I'll just sit here in my living room with my coat and boots on and eat some chips and blog a bit. I might even play my COLD guitar. If my COLD fingers aren't too stiff. From the COLD, that is.
God bless...
Brother DOnnie

District Convention in Eastern KY

2007-01-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

District Convention for The Church of God in the District of Eastern KY
Friday February 23 and Saturday February 24, 2007
Start times: Friday @ 7 PM
Saturday @ 9 AM
The theme for our Convention is
"LORD, Send REVIVAL!!"
Although the program is not complete, we expect to hear messages from our Regional Overseer Brother Paul Jernigan, as well as Brother Barry Warriner, Brother Terry Flora, Brother Shane Wilcox, and myself. We will also hear boosts and testimonies from all district pastors, as well as our Regional Auxiliary Coordinators.
Please pray for the District Convention. We have high expectations and are trusting God for mighty things to come! Attend if you can...EVERYONE is welcome!
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Some Prayer Requests

2007-01-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

I have a few of prayer requests to share tonight...
A Sister in Louisville, KY called me the other night. Her daughter, who I think is about thirteen, has a pretty big growth. They think it is attached to her ovary. They have a meeting with a surgeon Friday morning. We've been praying for her for several days. Please help us pray. Also pray for their family. This family are dear friends and they are praying for direction in their lives.
Also, I have an aunt who is quite sick with some gall bladder related problems.
Please pray for The Church of God in Raceland, KY. We really need a move of God up there.
Thanks for the prayers and God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Icy Sunday Morning...let's catch up

2007-01-21T08:46:00.000-08:00

Hey! I have been a bad, bad blogger for the last month. Sorry. I want to get back on track, so here is my opening attempt. I've been real busy, with job hunting and all. God has indeed opened a door for me, I believe. I will be starting a new job on February 2, 2007. I will now be a Schwan's man. I'll be selling for Schwan's home sales divivsion. I'm pretty excited about it. I've heard a lot of good things about the company, so I think it is a good move.
Today is Sunday, but we have had icy rain most of the night and morning. We were not able to have service this morning,but we plan to go this evening as the temp's are supposed to rise and the ice leave. I guess we are a lot better off than a lot of the country right now. Thank God! And God be with those who are currently snowed in and without power. Scary.
But, anyways...I'm getting ready to do some cooking. One of my favorite things...I got a small chicken in there waiting for some BBQ and the oven. Yum...
Yesterday we had a "Gleaner Rally" for the kids under twelve at our local church. There were 10 kids in attendance. It was great. Sister Phyllis Warriner, who is our regional Children's Ministry coordinator came up with her mother and two grandchildren. They were a blessiing. The kids sang some really cool songs we've been working on, and Sister Phyllis gave two different presentations of the gospel. She did so well, and even did some very clear, and I believe anointed teaching about Sanctification. It was a blessing to see all the kids in the altar. We also had pizza, and drinks for lunch. It was all paid for by funds the Gleaners have raised themselves through theier Gleaner Band Train change marches. They have been raising money to beautify the local church building for months, so this was a treat for them. They are a blessing to our local church.
That's all I have time to write for now, but check back soon. I hope to keep up better now.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Good Saturday

2007-01-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

It's been a good Saturday. I got up late...very late. I am actually embarrassed to say how late. Then I made pancakes and fried some eggs for me, Marsha, and Taylor. I always make one shaped like Mickey Mouse for each of the girls. Haley stayed at her Mamaw's last night, so she didn't get to eat a Mickey today. Anyway, then I did some cleanup around the outside, got rid of some garbage, etc. It was raining, but I love the rain, so it was nice. Well, then I decided to get my new leaf blower out of the box. I thought I'd just put it together and then start it up one time, and then put it away, since it was raining and all. Well, I heard the engine hum and it was all over. I couldn't stop my self. I blew leafs for three hours in the rain. I just couldn't get enough. I love yard work so much, but this past summer between being so busy and being sick, and having back trouble, and...well, you get the picture. I just didn't spend much time in the yard last summer. it was so nice just to blow leaves, and think. I thought a lot, and talked to God. I think that may be one of my favorite things about yard work. Especially if there is a noisy gasoline engine involved. I find the noise soothing. Peaceful. Almost quiet.Anyway, it was nice. Wet, but nice. Man...
Well, then, after running to town to pick up my suit from the cleaners, I came home and breaded and fried some beef chopped steak, with some fries. I also love to cook. A good day.
In other news, Taylor has learned how to say "I love you." It is just so cute, and sweet. She also has learned where her butt is. The other day I was asking her questions like"Where's your head?" "Where's your nose?" She knows all those, so just on a whim, I asked her "Where's your butt?" She immediately raised her leg, reached behind her and grabbed her little bottom. I was a little shocked that she knew, but at any rate I found it amusing.
Well, gotta run for now.
God bless...
Donnie

prayer Request

2007-01-04T18:12:00.000-08:00

I have a prayer request to share. I have been looking for a new job for a while. I have been uncomfortable with my current job for a while, and may have come accross a good opportunity. I had decided a few weeks ago to stop looking for awhile. After handing in yet another job application a few weeks ago, I prayed and told the Lord, that I was going to stop looking for now, and just be content with my current job. I had been feeling more comfortable the last couple of weeks. I told God that if He wanted me in this job, I was willing. I also told Him that if He had something else for me that I would just let Him open the door. Well this week I got a call. It was from a company that I have wanted to get on at for a while. I applied online quite a while back, but never heard a thing from them, so I had pretty much decided that it was not going to happen. Then out of nowhere, they called. I went for the interview and it sounds promising. I really want to know if it indeed is in the will of God. I have come to the place in life that if God wants it, then I want it. If He doesn't, then I don't. Please pray for me that I can discern His will in this situation. It would be a very time consuming job for the first couple of months, during training, then it would taper off and I would get some time back. Anyways...please help me pray.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

New Year's Eve Watchnight Service

2007-01-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of Brother David Risch preaching at our New Year's Eve service. He preached Friday, Saturday, Sunday morning, and Sunday evening, and all four messages were deep, and Spiritually powerful! Both he and Sister Risch were a great blessing to us!

Below is a picture of Brother Terry Flora preaching the word, also on Sunday evening. He also did a great job and delivered an anointed message!

Here is another picture which shows the sanctuary of our local church from a wider angle. God has really blessed us with a good place to hold service, and has continually been with us in every meeting we've had there! Thank God!!

My Girls

2007-01-02T18:04:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of my three beautiful girls on Christmas Eve morning before leaving for church. Aren't they gorgeous? I have no idea WHAT Taylor is doing, but ain't she cute?

Happy Day Before My Birthday to EVERYBODY!!!

2006-12-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

Oh, man, I LOVE birthdays! It's almost mine. Went to Johnny Carino's and ate entirely too much shrimp, chicken and penne pasta with spicy alfredo sauce. Oh, yeah...We spent the evening with a couple from church who wanted to treat me for my birthday. Did I remember to mention that it is the day before my birthday? Yes, the girls have already sung a great big happy version of "Happy Day Before Your Birthday To You!" *note*to really get the idea of this post and enjoy it properly, you must read in plenty of over the top giddiness*end note*.
I'll post more tomorrow and share about my birthday presents, some of which I have already received, and enjoyed. And of course appreciated.
God bless...
Brother Donnie "it's almost my birthday" Estep

Upcoming Events at The Church of God at Winchester, KY

2006-12-07T16:00:00.000-08:00

I realize that most of you out there are far enough away that you can't attend our local events, but here are a couple of things we've got going on that you can help us pray about...
Christmas Eve Service
We'll be having a special Christmas Eve Worship service beginning at 10 AM. It will last until approximately 11:15 AM. The plan as of now is to invite the public. Perhaps there will be some whose church is not planning a service, and maybe they will attend our service. We plan to have traditional Christmas hymns, read the Christmas story, and I will have a short message.
New Years Weekend
We have Revival scheduled fro Friday December 29, Saturday the 30th, and Sunday the 31st with Bishop David Risch. Sunday night will be a watch-night service to pray in the New Year. He and Sister Risch are always a blessing. They have been with us on New Years two times in the past, and are a wonderful blessing to the local church each time as well as a joy to have in our home. Their experience and wisdom is of great value to The Church of God, and great benefit to a younger pastoral family such as mine.
The Church of God at Winchester, KY First Annual Coat Drive
We've been working on this already for about a month and a half, but it is still in progress. Brother Terry Flora got in touch with the Family Resource Center at his sons school in Winchester, and they have many kids who come to school without a coat to wear. We are working to provide coats to help them supply for the children. We are also gathering adult sized coats and taking them to another place.
Free Hot Chocolate and Coffee at Local Christmas Parade
This has actually already happened. Last Saturday night we offered free hot chocolate and coffe to the people attending the local parade. The parade was great fun, but the best blessing was that we were able to serve over 120 cups of hot chocolate, and thirty or more cups of coffe. Plus I had a pocket full of candy canes for the young kids. And we had some cupcakes to hand out. People were so pleased that we were doing this as a service, and not for a profit like some others. The next day we had two visitors as a result. Plus two others who happened in from down the street. Such a blessing.
More later...
God bles,
Brother Donnie

Newly Updated TCOG Website!!

2006-12-05T17:35:00.000-08:00

The newly updated website of The Church of God was released 12/04/06. It looks great! The new design is so much more attractive than what we've been looking at for the last umpteen years. Very pretty, very easy to use. It's been a long time coming. I liked the photo's of the General staff and Overseers. At least I liked the fact that we have photo's of them. Handsome bunch, ain't they?
At any rate, it looks great, and I'm glad it's been updated.
For anyone who may not be familiar with The Church of God, the website can be found at
www.thechurchofgod.org

God bless...
Brother Donnie

Decorating pics

2006-11-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from our Saturday of decorating, both inside and out. That's Marsha and Haley in their Santa hats, then Haley posing as she puts an ornament on the tree. That's the ninja, Taylor on the ladder. She tried to climb it all day. Aren't they all just adorable? And Christmas-y? There I am on the roof. I had just cleaned the gutters out, then swept the leaves and pine needles off the roof. Then I hung some lights on the eave. What a fun day...

Finally, we have officially begun the Christmas season!!

2006-11-25T21:05:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was great! We had a really great time visiting and eating, and visiting again later so we could eat some more! Great times, no doubt. But much like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are the "Gateway to the Smoky Mountains", Thanksgiving weekend serves as a sort of "Gateway to the REAL FUN!!" Pigeon Gorge and Gatlinburg are nice and fun places, but the real beauty is in the mountains. Dig? I do love Thanksgiving. I'm so very thankful for all that God has given me. I do not downplay the importance of this day. But, oh man do I love Christmas! I've shared this all before, I realize, but I simply must say that this is the greatest time of year for me.
So, I got on the roof today. Later we will post some pictures of me up there. I hung most of the outdoor lights on the house. There are more, and because they are not up, we have not had our official lighting ceremony. We've never called it that, actually, but at some point just after dark on the day I get them all hung, we all go out to look at them the first time the house is all lit up for the season.
I'm working on drumming up some money to get some of those blown plastic figures of Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus to put in the little stable I'm going to build. I've done it for several years now in the church yard when I was in Raceland. I actually build the thing out of four or five wooden pallets I find usually behind Wal-Mart or some other place. Add a little straw and the figures, and you have your outdoor nativity scene. I'll have to buy the shepherds, animals, etc in the future.
I also am thinking of buliding some big "gifts" to put out on the front porch, plus I need some more garland, maybe some candy canes, etc.
Inside, we got the tree up, and decorated. It is our old tree, because the newer, much bigger one doesn't fit anywhere in our current house. It looks really good. We still have several of the ornaments we bought for our first Christmas together. We got them at Big Lots. This is our tenth CHristmas to use them. Wow. Some of them bit the dust over the years. We also have a lot of "homemade" type of stuff we have either made or received as gifts, or that Haley has made in school or Sunday School over time. It's really a mixture of homemade stuff and some store bought ornaments. Plus two different kinds/colors of candy canes. And red and gold ribbon. And lots of red bows. But no topper. We have to get one. Our first or second Christmas married, I forget which, we bought a buch of ribbon and made this huge bow that was our topper for three or four years, but it, too, finally bit the dust. We kept it in a cake box.
Plus my wife has a pretty large collection of Snow Buddies, which I don't think are made anymore. They were really hot for a few years, but then they quit making them. She has tons...big ones small ones. They are snow men for any one who is not familiar with them. She loves snow men.
Listen to me...I'm almost giddy. Good grief. How embarrassing is that. I wish it would snow. I'm a sick man. When else would one long to hear Burl Ives sing? I don't know of any other time, but a rousing rendition of "Holly, Jolly Christmas" wouldn't hurt my feelings a bit right now!
I even caught my wife singing along with Elvis tonight on "Silent Night" or something. Plus she came home from the Dollar General store last evening with one of my favorite treats. My first box this year of Chocolate covered cherries.
I had so much fune with her and the girls today getting stuff decorated, and cranking out the Christmas music..man, I love Christmas. And we haven't even gotten to the real important stuff yet. But I will post about that soon. I hope to have time to share a lot of thoughts on Christmas time in the comign several weeks. Anyway, I gotta get to bed.
God bless...
Brother Donnie

2006-11-25T21:00:00.000-08:00

Caught in the act...

2006-11-21T17:19:00.000-08:00

...of doing something good. This past weekend, while preaching revival in Sturgis, KY (which went GREAT by the way!), we went up to Evansville, IN to attend service where Brother Ryan Peters is meeting with some hispanic folks. The man and woman who were our hosts there are members of The Chur of God, They are from Mexico, but have been in the states for a little while. They allowed the use of their home, which was a blessing. They have two sons, Angel, and David, as well as a baby daughter Mariana. They are sweet people. They don't speak a lot of English, and most of us who went don't speak any Spanish. They had another family there who had three sons, and brought a young girl with them as well. There were seventeen in total. I was very proud to see Bro Ryan doing this. He has been working with these folks for sometime. It takes a lot of boldness and dedication, I think, to drive three plus hours on a Saturday, with a very pregnant wife at home, to try and help these wonderful folks get a work started for The Church of God. Plus he taught Sunday School and preached in Spanish. He actually had to translate his Spanish to English for the rest of us who went from Sturgis! Brother Ryan, if you see this, you did a great job! Brother Shane and myself as well as the others from Sturgis were blessed to be a part of the service. You got caught in the act, buddy! Good job!
This will be the first in a series of posts which are designed to be "GOOD NEWS" posts. I'll be looking for good things that people are doing for God and those around them. God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Getting Ready for REVIVAL...

2006-11-16T19:03:00.000-08:00

Hey! Just finished a great revival at our church in Winchester, KY with our new Regional Overseer Brother Paul Jernigan. It really was great for us. The Spirit was so rich and the messages so uplifting. I praise God for it. Wednesday night Brother Terry asked to be anointed with oil and prayed for because of a place on his back that seemed to be a spider bite or something. It was very swollen and painful. The next morning it was gone! God can fix things both small and great!
I'll be leaving tomorrow after work for Sturgis, KY for Revival. I am so excited! I've known most of the folks there for my whole life. Some of them even knew my family before I was born. (It's that way most places in KY for me.) But I've never had opportunity to preach there. My buddy (and Marsha's cousin) Brother Shane WIlcox and his wife and sons have recently moved there to pastor, so he invited me down for a weekend to preach. Unfortunately something has come up and my wife won't be able to go with me. The plan was for the whole family to go, and I'm very sad to be making the trip without her and little Taylor. However, I am excited to be taking my oldest daughter, Haley with me. She and I have never really taken a trip anywhere together, so this is going to be fun. She and I have been coworkers for a while. She was my assistant Pastor in E'town and Raceland. I used to take her on lots of hospital and nursing home visits. She has always been a natural with people, and I miss hanging out with her in that way, so I have appointed her my official "Assistant Evangelist" for this trip. I know Taylor will be fun to do these things with, as well, when she is a bit older, and I can't wait for that. I really do love my girls. And their sweet, pretty mommy.
Haley and I will have about a 5 or 6 hour ride in the van to get to Sturgis tomorrow. That's a long time so we are armed with the game boy and the DVD player plus some of our favorite cd's. But honestly, I hope we'll spend more time talking and cutting up and stuff. She is a very smart little girl, and crazy as a loon. She has the most insane sense of humor. A mixture of her daddy's strange senses of humor and irony and her mommy's general zaniness. She really seems to have a knack for understanding what makes something funny and exploiting it for extra laughs. Oh, and she's a bookworm. Very smart. Where that came from no one is quite sure. She absolutely loves school. Her mommy is a smart girl and from what I know a good student. Me? HA! I once skipped school so many days in a row that when I went back I had to go to the office and ask them to write down my locker combination because I had forgotten it while I was "away". But haley is dead serious about school. I am very proud of her. All that and she's gorgeous, too. lol
Then there's Taylor. She is the youngest. She's about 1 and a half. She has brown hair that is getting a little wave in it but not curls like the red head(Haley). The two girls on the surface are total opposites. Haley has always been kind of big for her age, but Taylor is teeny tiny. She has no fat on her, yet she eats like a bless-ed horse! Haley, while energetic and crazy, is quite controllable. Taylor? A maniac. My baby is all out like a lizard drinkin' water! Taylor is full of fire! And I love it. She never lets anything get dull or boring. She is also a very bright little thing, but with a much more mischievous nature. Oh, and she is a ninja. We discovered this a while back when Haley tried to wrestle Haley's game boy away from her and she (Taylor) went all Kung Fu on her big sis. Yes, my youngest daughter is a rogue ninja. Her big sis informed me that she had turned to a life of crime, but we are trying to rehabilitate her. Honestly, all jokes aside, she is a very sweet, adorable baby girl who has her big ol' daddy so wrapped it isn't even funny. And she's gorgeous. They both get that from their mother. She's a fox.
Well, I gotta quit for now. I need to study, pray, and prepare a bit more for the Revival, plus I need to get to bed.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Hey...

2006-11-13T15:59:00.000-08:00

Finally, I have returned to blogging. We had some major pc trouble, but a new hard drive later we are back!! We actually got it installed a few days ago, but I've been really busy. We had revival this past weekend with our new overseer Bro Jernigan. He did a great job and our people were so blessed. I hadn't had too many opportunities to hear him preach in a while, but wow. Our people were fed and then some. It was a very uplifting revival. We didn't get as many visitors to come as we had hoped, but it was still a blessing to our local folks. The folks from Raceland also were able to attend one night and were blessed. They really need some miracles up there. They currently need a regular pastor, and a building. I have been appointed to be pastor until further notice, and am glad to be, but they are in need of a pastor who can move to their area and give them full attention. Please help us pray.
I'll go for now, but will post again soon, I promise.
God bless...
Bro Donnie

Happy Birthday to...

2006-10-31T03:20:00.000-08:00

My Wife!!! Yahoo, Marsha Renee turns ***(clears throat)*** today!!!
Baby doll, I hope you see this...I love you very much and hope it is a great day. I wish I didn't have to go to work today so we could spend the whole day together, but I'll see you this evening. Love you...HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARSHA RENEE!!!
Love,
Donald Ray

To everyone else who sees this...
Happy my wife's birthday to you! You may get the picture that I like birthdays. heh heh...Haley and I have been singing to her since Sunday. It started with "Happy It's almost your birthday to you", then on yesterday to "Happy day before your birthday..." then I managed to get in the official birthday song at about 3:39 am this morning and two or three times since. It's now 6:15 and I have to go to work.
Later...

Hey, I'm Back

2006-10-29T13:33:00.000-08:00

Wow...I didn't realize it had been so long until I seen Sister Smiths post. Sorry. I have been really busy, plus we've all been taking turns being sick and stuff. Haley had strep throat. Taylor and Marsha have each had sinus infections. I have just been having more fits with my stomach problems plus a four day headache at one point which I still cannot explain. Any way...we all seem to be mended up for the time being, Thank the LORD.
Plus it's been very busy. Church events, and stuff. Brother Jernigan asked me to be District Overseer for the Eastern half of Kentucky. That includes five churches, one of which has no pastor. Yep, Raceland. I'll be watching over that work again for the time being while Brother Jernigan prays for a Pastor. Please help us to pray. The people there are wonderful and are being so strong and having such great attitudes about it. But they need a regular pastor. It is such a big deal that we find someone who can go.
Beside all that, our local church in Winchester is getting very busy. We are in the opening stages of a "Coat Drive" to help provide some winter coats to needy folks in our community. In addition to that the church is working through the school system to sponsor a family for Christmas. In other words, we are buying Christmas gifts for a family who are in need. It is something we did when I pastored at E'town a few years ago. It was really a blessing for us and them. We are also looking into the possibility of opening a food pantry to operate in our town of Winchester.
Beside this we are going to be having a bake sale the first weekend of December, go Christmas Caroling at local Nursing homes near Christmas. Also, Brother Terry has come across an opportunity for us to begin ministering in the local jail.
Oh, yeah, and Ministers convention is next weekend. Whew...that was tiring.
Our local folks here are determined to reach out into the community and touch people for Christ. They want to minister to the whole community. I'm very excited about that. We've got good times ahead.
Anyway, it's good to be back blogging.
God bless y'all...
Brother Donnie

Catch somebody in the act...

2006-10-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

...of doing something good!!

Think about it. We hear all kinds of news every day of people doing horrible things. On the news we see it every day, and occasionally we'll see someone do a news item about a simple human interest story about someone doing something good, and it is treated as "fluff" and hardly considered newsworthy. Well, why not? Why isn't it newsworthy to find someone doing something good?
Well, I think it is. When we see a brother or sister doing something good, I don't see any reason we shouldn't put a hand on their back, and let them know we appreciate it. Watch it make their day. Feel it make yours. Give God the Glory!
Here's a little challenge...
Next time you are at church or at work, maybe at school, or even when you are at home, catch someone in the act of doing something good! Let them know they've been caught. Even though they are probably doing it because it is the right thing to do and not for the attention it could get them, I bet they'll appreciate that you noticed. Look for good things...think about good things!
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things." Philippians 4:8
God bless you...
Brother Donnie

An Encourager of the Brethren...

2006-10-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

I once heard a brother give what I considered to be a great compliment to an older minister in the state where they both had labored for years. The younger pastor was talking to the overseer, and he said "Brother LaSure is an encourager of the brethren." I don't remember a lot of what he said after, but that comment has always stuck with me. An encourager of the brethren. Of course, he was an encourager of all the saints. From that time on I watched the older fellow as often as I could get around him, and I found it to be true. He was indeed an encourager.
I should think that every Christian would want to be one...that we would all ask the Lord, "Where can I sign up?" Too many today want to be any thing but the one thing we all should desire to be, an encourager. After all, we already have an accuser. That position is already filled. Thank God we also have an adviocate. One of my favorite scriptures speaks of our "advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous..." It's found in I John 1:1. Thank God for our advocate, and for all the encouragers. I want to be one, don't you? Let's all sign up right now to be an "Encourager of the Brethren", An "Encourager of the Sisters", An Encourager of the Saints".
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Busy week...

2006-10-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

Man what a busy week. I haven't really had time to blog in a while, but I thought I'd better say a few words. It's been so cold here today. That's the news. Man...no wonder I haven't blogged in a few days. Not much happening. But as always, God has been so good. He continues to bless us.
We had a fellowship meeting Sunday night at Russell Springs church with our new Regional Overseer, Brother Jernigan. It was a great meeting and everyone seems very excited about the new year. Brother Jernigan preached a great message and it was just a good service all around.
Saturday we go to a hayride at Elizabethtown, KY. We used to pastor there and love the people very much so It will be nice to go to one of their hayrides again. We used to have so much fun. It is held on a pretty good sized farm way out in the country that beklongs to one of the church families there.
I gotta go for now, but I want everyone out there to just know that you are loved. God is in control and is already taking care of whatever situation you are facing.
God bless you...
Brother Donnie

Goin' Campin'...

2006-10-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

...YEEEEEEHAAAAWWWW!!!
Our family and my wife's aunt, uncle, and cousin who went in with us on the little pop-up camper are going camping tonight. It's just a one night trip and it is at a campground close to home, but I'm still very excited. We're going to Fort Boonesboro State Park campground. It is a nice place down by the Kentucky River. Tommorow there is a car show there, so I'm double happy. I love the old classics.We've got the girls bikes and stuff, plus we've been gathering food and stuff all week. Ad cold Ale * (ky's own soft drink). Awesome...
So we come home tomorrow, I do a little yard work, and then we get to go to church Sunday Morning. Woohoo! I know there will beblessings waiting for us there!
Sunday night we have a district meeting in Russell Springs, KY with our new overseer, Brother Paul Jernigan. We're very excited to see him, and to work with him this year. It's gonna be such a good year!
I better run, gotta get the rest of the stuff in the truck and take off. After all, the campground i 5 miles away...heh heh
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Praise God...

2006-10-04T19:45:00.000-07:00

...for another outpouring of His Spirit! We had a wonderful time in the Lord tonight at The Church of God at Winchester, KY! Our Victory Leaders Band director, Sister Sam (Saundra), said she had been unsure what to do tonight, but she had decided to have a service centered around "Praise".After some prayer and the offering, and a special song, we had some good Spirit filled singing and the altar began to fill up. The two young girls who were saved last week were back tonight and they were both there along with the slightly older girl who prayed with them last week. She is about twelve and has been saved for awhile. I remember her receiving the Baptism of the Holy Ghost in camp, I think two or three years ago. She has been sick a lot lately, but has been riding the altar and really getting blessed. One of the younger girls has been sick as well. She was at the hospital last night. The doctors evidently think she may have appendicitis. She was in the altar praying for God's help. Our "older" crowd, from VLB's to the oldest ones were gathered around them in the altar..Awesome, just Awesome. Around 8:25 the Sister turned the service to me and the Holy Ghost hit me and I suddenly felt like preaching and exhorting. The Lord has put a hunger for Souls in me and I began to talk abvout it. Once again the Holy Ghost began to move over us all and we just had a spell. Praise God! He is so good to us.
I hope you all out there don't get tired of hearing me talk about this. I just can't help it. I haven't been this excited in years. I can remember when I first got in the ministry and first began to feel the annointing of the Holy Ghost. I'd get so full sometimes I thought I might just bust! I felt that way again lately and it feels so good...I want to see somebody come and get their soul saved and their life all straightened out so bad I just about can't stand it....well, Thank God!
I'm rambling again...sorry. I just tell this stuff for a testimony for God, and in hopes that it will encourage somebody. Maybe somebody will run across this blog and a desir ebe awakened in them to seek forgiveness for their sins, and they could get saved...Maybe somebody is discouraged...don't be! God is real and He loves you...
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie
I can't wait to post some more good things about the Lord...

A Beautiful Day

2006-10-02T19:35:00.000-07:00

Man the weather has been nice here today. We've been having an unbelievable amount of rain in KY for weeks. I guess it's been that way a lot of places. But the last couple of days have been really beautiful. Thank God for it. Although I generally like a little rain, especially when I'm working (keeps me cool), it has just been raing constantly. But God knows best.
We got the camper out and popped it up. It was the first time. We are thinking of taking it out maybe this weekend. There is a campground near her, at Fort Boonesborough State Park. There is a big carshow this weekend, so we may not be able to get a space, but there is a chance. Either way I plan to go look at the hot rods. I love old cars.
At any rate, there's not much to write about tonight. Plus I;m tired and have to get up early tomorrow. I'll try to be more interesting tomorrow night, I guess.
By the way, things are still going great at church. We're planning to have a revival around the second week of November. I called a good friend and asked him to come and be evangelist. I believe he is the right choice. I'll say who it is as soon as he gets back with me to confirm it. Our church is very, very excited and getting more and more excited for REVIVAL!! Hunger seems to be one of the biggest keys to revival. The people have to be hungry. Lord, help us to get hungry for REVIVAL!!
Another thing I'm excited about is an invitation I got to preach in a local Pentecostal church. I've attended one of their services a while back when one of our members was asked to sing during their revival with her sisters. Her landlord goes to church there. He asked her husband Sunday to tell me to let them know when I could come over and preach in their Saturday night service. He wants to know plenty ahead of time so they can get it into the newspaper and try to build up a good crowd. Very exciting!
Wel, I better get going...
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Thank God...

2006-09-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

...for another wonderful Sunday! We had twenty this morning and twenty-one tonight. The services both had a great presence of God.
Tonight we had two young girls to get saved, one about 10 and the other about twelve. It was kind of interesting how it all got started. Brother Terry, one of our local ministers, had been preaching for juts a little bit when a sister who has been very sick this week had to leave the sanctuary because of a pretty major coughing spell and some sharp pains she had in her side. A few minutes later, her daughter came back into the room and whispered to me that we needed to pray for her mother right then. I motioned to Brother Terry and told him what was going on, so he didn't miss a beat, but got the oil bottle and we brought her up for prayer. We prayed for a little bit, then started again, and then she began to feel the power of the Holy Ghost, Her countenance changed and she began worshipping the Lord! Soon two of her daughters were embracing her, all three weeping and praising God. It was wonderful...As we all prayed and felt the Lord's presence, a group of young girls had gathered around the piano, and were helping the piano player sing some songs. I noticed two of them starting to cry. I knew immediately that it was conviction. Brother Terry and some others sprung into action while others of us kept on singing and praising God. They bothe were saved and a third, who was already saved, sanctified, and Holy Ghost filled got such a wonderful blessing that she shouted all around the church house under the power of God. Tonight was such a blessing. God has really been moving in our services. I believe that He is preparing us for a great Revival move very soon! The Revival Spirit has already begun to settle amongst us, and seems to get stronger every time we meet.
I am so thankful!
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie
By the way, please pray for my wife, she has been having more serious trouble with her migraines lately, and one seems to be starting up tonight. She needs a healing...

Local Church Update

2006-09-20T19:05:00.000-07:00

The church where we are now pastoring is in Winchester, KY. We have been having some wonderful times in the Lord, as I have mentioned in other posts. Just to give you a little update...
We are averaging about 15 in Sunday School, I think. This past Sunday we had 16, which is only 7 away from our record SS attendance. Sunday nights are running 12 to 14 people generally. Tonight was VLB night and we had 13 in attendance. There has been such a peaceful, unified feeling amongst us lately. Hanging around, talking after service...tonight we gathered around the piano and worked on some new songs for the Gleaners. Old ones, actually, that we haven't used in a while. It was a lot of fun. We have a bake sale planned for the first weekend in November, and I am currently praying hard and trying to work out the details for s Revival, the first since our move to Winchester.We are very excited. We're also in the early talking/planning stages of some visitation efforts in our new town, as well as some other outreach efforts we want to get involved in.
We really are blessed, and we have a good little church. We meet in a small, but very functional storefront that we rent. It is right down town in a pretty well populated and visible area, just a block from the courthouse. Our goal is to gather enough souls together to fill it up. We want so much to win people to Christ! That has become sort of a rallying cry for us. There are numbers of people who pass by our church every time we are in service, and we are praying and believing that it is only a matter of time until the Spirit begins to draw them to The Church of God . Praise the Lord! There is a bar across the street, as well as several other businesses. I plan to try and find a way to meet the owners of all these business, plus the inhabitants of the apartments that are above them.
Please pray for all of us. We want to do a good work for our God, as He has done so much for us.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Making my list, checking it twice...

2006-09-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, friends, I have already begun plotting out my decorating scheme for my Christmas lights, etc. I'm very excited this year, even more so than usual for some odd reason. I didn't get to do any outside decorations for some reason last year. This year I want go all out. I've been scouting the yard for small tress and bushes that could be useful. I have som huge Pine trees, but they are just too big. Some of the larger bushes will be perfect. I also have two trellises(sp?) that will be beautiful all lit up. Also I'm planning to build a nativity scene. I've been doing it for three or four years now. Actually I did dio that last yearf, I forgot. I have found that I can easily build it out of for skids, you know, wooden palletts. One for the floor, one for the back wall, two for the side walls. Then I build the roof out of planks pulled from a fifth skid. Then add some straw, and a small flood light. I'll have to buy my own plastic figure this year, as I no longer pastor a church that owns one. Man, I can't wait!
Yes, Sister Smith. I know I am a weirdo, much like the poor other fellow you mention. (I just couldn't bring myself to mention Brother Horne's name in the same sentence as "weirdo"...oh, wait a minute...woops!)
It's a sickness, I'm sure. Maybe I'll get my wife to put a good Christmas sonG on here...o, yeah!
Later...
Brother Donnie

Great Day in the Lord....

2006-09-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a day of wonderful blessings. We had two wonderful services. This morning, I preached the message I had been planning all week. It was on the Covenant of The Church of God. It is actually part of a series. I'm excited to get into the subject. I'm actually taking phrases from the actual word covenant as titles for the messages. It is all dealing with the scriptural back-up for the covenant, and with our responsibilty after having entered into this covenant relationship.
Tonight, Brother Terry was scheduled to preach...I thought. Obviously we always need to hear good preaching, but tonight was one of those nights when God just simply seemed to have something else in mind! He began to bless and there was a couple of hours of singing and shouting His praises as the Holy Ghost swept over nearly everyone in attendance. We thought it was over a couple of different times, but then it would start up all over again! God kept on pouring His Spirit out on all of us, it was wonderful!
In other news...
I FINALLY got my truck road ready again. This afternoon, I put a new brake hose on the right side and re-bled the lines. The thing stops almost perfectly now. The pedal is a little loose, so I'm gonna take the other wheel off and bleed tha lines on that side. It now has new calipers, pads, and one new hose.
I've also stared plotting out my Christmas lighting and decorating plans. I've been wanting to play my Christmas cd's for weeks. Today I looked into one of my goody boxes of lights, etc. oh, yeah. I'm ready.
Gotta go...
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Saturday night...

2006-09-16T20:44:00.000-07:00

And I am so tired. But feeling better than most of the week. I have been really sick with some kind of cold, or sinus infection...I don't know. I'm still coughing a lot, but feel better over all. I hope my cough will allow me to preach tomorrow morning. Last Sunday morning I was hindered by several coughing fits the first ten minutes, but all of a sudden the Holy Ghost came to my rescue, and I felt an instant surge of the power of God! I went on to preach a solid thirty minutes unhindered by my sick body. I expect if the cough persists, God is able to do the same thing again. Looking back, some of the greatest blessings I've ever received while preaching were in times when I was fighting some physical hindrance or sickness. At times the sickness or pain would even return after preaching, oddly, but the Lord let me have a break from it long enough to do my work. Man, I love the Lord! He is so good.
Tomorrow I plan to preach on the Covenant of The Church of God. Wednesday night I taught a Bible study about covenants. It dealt with two specific questions. 1. What is a Covenant? 2. What does it mean to be under a Covenant with God. There were several scripture references, but the main lesson came from Exodus 19, and some related verses. I used some material that I wrote while pastoring at E'town, KY a few years ago. So tomorrow's message is a follow up which will deal specifically with the covenant that we take to become members of TCOG. I'm excited about it. This will probably become a short series of messages since as I get deeper into it, I keep coming accross more aspects that I want to touch on. I teach Bible study the second Wed of the month, so I'll use that to help cover as much ground as possible.
Tommorow night I get to hear some preaching as Brother Terry Flora, our assistant pastor, will be getting in the pulpit. He is a great guy who is a blessing to us every time he preaches the word.
In other news...
my wife and I just went in half-ers today with her aunt and uncle to buy a pop-up camper. We are so excited. We got it for $850.00. Thats 425 per family...AWESOME!! It's an older one, but I can't wait to pick it up this week and we are going to get both families together to take it out for the inaugural camping trip. Oh, yes, the big fella is going camping with his girls...YEEHAW!! I love doing things like this with my wife and babies. Just awesome! Plus I get to take my guitar, my other consatant companion. I can't wait...
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

the Lost Blogger Returns...

2006-09-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

Never fear, it is I! The Lost Blogger! I have returned from my short hiatus. Boy the strain of keeping up a blog about absolutley nothing is unbelievable. In fact the last few days it seems like absolutely nothing is exactly what I've been up to. So much so that to actually take a few moments to blog about it has seemed just too much.
But anyways...
I do want to say that I enjoyed the General Assembly so much. It has been years since I have left the GA feeling so excited. The year the flag controversy was settled, I was mostly relieved. But this time, I have come home really excited about what might be ahead for us. I have heard some grumbling here and there but that doesn't discourage me at all. I believe that God is going to help us. Last year was rough. But it is over. Sure we still have a few things to deal with, and with God's help that will all be taken care of in due time. But I am looking forward to the upcoming year. Though it may hold some difficult days, some trials, even some persecutions, it will no doubt hold victory, IF we hold on to God! "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help..." Praise God! Friends, I know where my help comes from. Do you? If you are a child of God you do. Look unto Him. What a blessed priviledge it is to carry every thing to God in prayer. He is faithful!
I'm ready to go on now and do the work that has been given to The Church of God. I believe God has given us a leader, and now that that is settled, I am praying for Brother Smith as he does his work. I trust he will be praying for us all as we do ours. Indeed, it is all a part of the same work, after all.
"For we are labourers together with God" I Corinthians 3:9 a.

God bles each of you...
Brother Donnie

A Glorious Time in the LORD!!

2006-08-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

tonight's service was wonderful...just victorious!
God was moving from the start, but when it came time for me to preach, I just felt that God was still moving on someone, working with them. There are always needs present, so I try to always be open to letting the Spirit move at His pace. So I sang. And sang. And sang some more. I noticed that several of the people were being blessed, but I felt so strongly in my heart that someone was carrying a burden and that God was ready to lighten their load! Finally, after singing all I thought I could sing, I decided that I would try preaching a little while...I knew immediately that it was still not time. We prayed some more and I noticed two different young ladies with their heads down, as if praying. I started us in an accapella chorus of "I'll say Yes, Lord, Yes". I felt the Holy Ghost immediately so as soon as the congreagation were singing along strongly enough I began to say some things over their singing, and at one point I closed my eyes, and said If you have any burdens, or you need to talk to God, the altar is open, Will you please come forward?" As it came out of my mouth, I opened my eyes and saw a young girl of about twelveor so hitting the altar with her cousin, her aunt, and her grandfather right on her heels! From there we all just began to get loose! The Holy Ghost began to move strongly on every one present. The young lady was already a Christian. In fact she had recieved the Holy Ghost a couple of years ago at Youth Camp. But she evidently was just really needing some touch from the Lord TONIGHT> I'm so glad that God is aware of our needs. He knew just what she needed! Before long we were all shouting and praising God and the Holy Ghost was speaking all around the place...the young girl got up and was dancing and speaking in tongues, and she eventually wound up right out in the middle of the floor. It was all just such a blessing to every one involved. it was a beautiful sight to see the power of the Holy Ghost move upon her, her aunt and uncle, her cousin, and her grandparents...yeah, her pastor and his wife got in on the good blessings as well. We were truly blessed by the presence of God tonight. Thank God!
May God bless you each is my prayer...
Brother Donnie

Good Sunday Morning...

2006-08-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

We had a good service this morning. It seems that God has really been blessing us lately...a good spirit in every service. We are currently a small crowd, and it has been my experience that sometimes when the crowd is always small, people can get a little discouraged, maytbe even a little complacent. I've been very pleased with the way that the folks here are seemingly determined to get a blessing, and be a blessing in every service. The Lord has been dealing with our hearts as a church, I believe that He is getting us to a place where we can say, wholeheartedly "not our will, but thine, O Lord..."
We must come to the place where if God wants it, we want it. If God does not want it, we do not want it.
We are looking forward to another good service tonight. We will be praying for all of you out there, and for the General Assembly. We're praying for UNITY in The Church of God.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Random thoughts...

2006-08-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday I'm at work (I run a delivery route), and one of my customers offers to feed me lunch. It's the manager of CiCi's Pizza, one of my favorites, 'cause one can pig out on a budget. The Assistant manager offers me lunch, so I sya, "Sure, can I get it in a box, to go?" She was happy to oblige. I didn't overdo it, but just got three slices of BarB-Q pizza and four or five breadsticks. At any rate, the purpose of the to go box was so I could eat but not necessarily sit still and stop working. Efficiency is very important at my job. Well, I ran into a problem. I couldn't decide whether to eat a slice before each stop or wait and eat one after each stop. It was a real tough decision, but finally I decided to do both...
My customers have been real good to me lately, by the way. Thank God. Pizza Hut has fed me the last two weeks runnig; buffet and salad one week, then last week they offerd me something. Once again I asked for a box, thinking I might get a slice or two for the road. The girl disappeared, talked to the Assistant Manager Kelly for a minute, then I saw Kelly put an entire medium pizza she had just brought from the oven and put it in a box. Then the first girl brought it to me. I offered to pay, but they wouldn't hear of it. Then there are the Arabic guys at Subway. I can't remember the last time I left that stop without a free sandwich with drink and chips. Occasionally even one of my Burger King managers will offer me a sandwich. No wonder I keep such a trim fugure. It ain't easy looking like this, I tell you.
Anyways...
Taylor has been a litle sick the last few days. (as opposed to a BIG sick?) She is so pitiful when she feels bad. I think she is doing some better today. She has been a walking mucous factory for the last few days. Delicious...
Well, I got to get outside and work on my truck. Brakes went out the other day.
Have a good evening, and good church tonight...
God bless...
Brother Donnie

Hey...Check it out...I got a Flickr...

2006-08-21T19:40:00.000-07:00

Well, my wife is learning how to spruce up our blogs a bit. She was good enough to get me some photo's on a flickr thingy. Mostly of my baby girls and wife. Man, are they some beautiful girls...all three! I am reminded of how just completely head over heels I am for all three of them. I am so blessed.
In other news...
Yesterday evening my wife and I were sitting at the kitchen table together having a snack. I was looking at the back of a box of Kleenex that we had just brought home from the store. It was one of those deals where one half the box had a product related message written in English. The other side was written in French. Good thing, seeing as we have such a huge and growing community of, um...
French Kentuckians? But anyway, I thought it would be fun to have my wife read the French out loud. I figured, after all, the closest she'd ever been to anything French was vanilla. Okay, maybe fries...or maybe the replica of the Eiffel Tower at King's Island in Ohio...or maybe Paris. Kentucky, that is. With her adorable Kentucky accent, it was cute. I enjoyed it. She actually did pretty good, though.
Our baby Taylor has been kind of sick. She has had a sinus infection, and now pink eye. Yes, my daughter has a livestock disease. But not a bad case. Thank God it's not mad cow, or something. I think she has occasional breakouts of Mad Baby disease. It's amazing the temper that baby has. Couple that with the fact that she is a ninja, and man can it get hairy around here sometimes.
Well, that is all for tonight, but I will talk more maybe tomorrow night.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Saturday night...

2006-08-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

...and I'm beat. I attended a meeting in Elizabethtown, KY last night. Brother and Sister Smith, and Brother Dupre were there. The General Overseer and Field Secretary came to speak with the ministers and members of our area concerning the situation in the region. It went pretty good, overall.
Anyway, enough about that for now. I think I'll post light hearted tonight. lol.
I didn't get home until after 2 am this morning. In bed after 3. Laid there thniking, unable to get to sleep 'til 4 something...oh, yeah...light hearted. Anyway, I slept in today. Highly unusual. Went outside around 10-ish to do some yard cleanup and a l;ittle bit of weed eating. My garden and flowers have been so neglected this year. I was sick so much of the spring and summer, not to mention preoccupied...uh, in a light hearted sort of way.
I managed to clean off and wash down the front porch of our house, and sprayed down the vinyl siding. Later in the year I'll get some vinyl cleaner and really wash it down. Cleaned my charcoal grill. Swept the walk. Pretty productive couple of hours. Then I came in and decided to pitch in and do some laundry. Marsha has been working so hard. She is such a good wife. I wanted to try and help a little.
Tonight we went on a "family date". We all four got in the van and went to and old style drive-in restaurant. Like Sonic, only an original, locally owned one with the real old timey atmosphere, and the best burgers, fries, tater tots, and onion rings around, honest. The Parkette. Tonight, they were having an Classic Car Cruise In. Itwas fun to look at the old cars. I love the classics. Then I went and bought two new suits for the Assembly. Enjoyable night all around. I love to be with my girls. BTW, the little one tore up jack in the S and K suits store tonight. I don't know what came over her, but she had a short spell of complete rambunctiousness.(huh?) She had a big day. Her Mamaw Jpy took her to the park to feed the ducks. I don't know what all she got in to, but I know that she came home in different clothes than she left in, and her mamaw washed the original clothes. I didn't bother to ask.
Well...gotta go. God bless you...
Brother Donnie

I wish I were more like...

2006-08-08T20:21:00.000-07:00

...Jesus. I wish I were more like Him. Full of love, and compassion, and Godly wisdom. I am recognizing more and more lately how weak I am. Frail, really. In my mind, a failure. I do wish I were more like my Lord. I never seem to know what to do, but He always knew/knows.
This has been a difficult day for me, but God has been so good. I've been looking around on some other folks blogs. There seems to be some stir among some out there to really try and get close to God as we prepare for the upcoming General Assembly.
God, help us to get ready!
In other news...Brother Terry and I went to the chjurch tonight and hung the cross that he built and also the new attendance board that the Gleaners raised money to purchase. They are working on money for a good set of flag poles now. Our flags are hanging on the wqalss, but we really want to get a set of good poles for them.
Then returned home where my mom and sister were watching the girls. A dangerious combination, the four of them. The house is still standing, and I don't think anything was broken beyond compare. I had to perform a minor surgery to remove a splinter from little Taylor's heel. She is tougher than pig iron. Barely whimpered. She was mostly mad because we were holding her down. Fiesty, that one.
I gotta get in bed now.. long day tomorrow.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Tired...excited...hopeful...

2006-08-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

Hey, everybody...
I am such a bad, bad blogger. It has been well over a week since I have taken the time to say anything. I have thought about it several times, but keep putting it off. The last week has been an emotional roller coaster ride. But, then, at this point, who is surprised by that? This has, beyond a shadow of a doubt been the craziest year ever. So much has happened to us all. But I must say, that in the last couple of weeks, God has really been doing some major work on me. So much of the hurt I had been feeling has just disappeared. He has literally changed my heart about some issues that I have been struggling with, and my whole outlook has changed in many ways. I am very thankful for that. I needed it.
I had a very interesting weekend. Friday night, the church in Lexington, KY, which is pastored by my wife's grandfather, Brother Clarence Wilcox, held a gospel singing. their church is made up of a lot of her family, as well as a number of people who can legitimately claim to have known me for ALL of my life. Some of them carry the embarrassing pic's to prove it. (Can you imagine? I am thirty one, and some of them have pictures of me as a very small child [yes, a very small child]I am so loved...) As it happens, this church is a part of Brother Danny Carter's region of IN/KY/OH. This makes it compolicated. The two "groups" which have been created by the turmoil up[ here have had very little association, most of it on individual levels. Anyway, I was invited, and so were some of my members at Winchester. We decided it would be a good gesture to attend. Five of us went (my wife had to work). We were very well received, and sang some songs, and worshipped with them. I felt the fellowship was enjoyable, and throughout the night no one seemed to feel it necessary to make any needless comments, or take any jabs. I had a few very meaningful exchanges, privately with some people that I believe may represent some open doors for reconciliation. The following, day I received a call to come a drive Brother Wilcox down to Pineville, KY, in the mountains. He also pastors a small congregation there which meets on Saturday nights. I prayed it over and decided to go. When I went to his house to tell him I'd go, he asked me if I'd like to preach. I was quite surprised, but pleasantly. SO I went and preached. I felt such a strong anointing, I thought I'd preach myself silly. He and I spent nearly four hours on the road together, and had a very pleasant discussion on a nymber of topics, including the turmoil in the Church, and our region in particular. We don't necessarily see eye to eye, but man am I hopeful. This whole last two weeks, the Lord has dealt with me about reconciliatiuon for our region. I want so much to reach out to these people! I have worked in this region my entire ministry. I have seen many of their children from their first year at youth camp, to being Senior campers, and even camp staff! I have preached at many of their churches and alot of them have preached in mine. They have been, and are my friends, my brothers and sisters... I know reconciling this problems that have happened here will be a tough process, but I pray God will help us to see it through. We need it. This region needs to be healed. Our families need it. Broken relationships need mending and healing. It's been a long year, and we're all tired, and so many are hurting...but I am also very hopeful, and a little excited. God is in control. Thank God, He is in full control.
God bless you all...
Brother Donnie

Thursday...long day, busy night...trip tomorrow...aaaaarrrrggghhhhh!!!!

2006-07-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

What a day...Thursday is typically my longest day of the week and this week it did not disappoint. It has been so hot here lately. Today was only 84, but the humidity was something like 100%. As good ole Charlie Brown would say, "Good Grief!"
I've got a long night ahead of me. The only reason I'm taking time to type is 'cause my supper is in front of me, and it is not portable. I'm having nacho's with cheese, and a "beef" pot pie out of the microwave. Yes, it's wonderful, thanks. Yes, my wife is at work. The girls aren't here so I didn't want to cook. I am quite the cook, but it's not as much fun to cook for just ones self. Niether Marsha or myself have time for that today anyway. We leave in the morning early for Mayfield, KY. That is where Bro Kevin and Sis Cyndi Brown pastor. Their church is playing host to a sort of youth rally/retreat-esque sort of thing we are having this weekend. Our state was unable to have camp this year, so we all decided to go down there and have a cou0ple nights youth revival, the girls will stay with Sister Cyndi, and us guys will mostly camp out. It should be a blast. We will be there thru Sunday. I'm really looking forward to the time there with the kids, and my wife and all the good church folk who get to be there.
Well, my pot pie is nearly gone, and I need another coke, so I'm gettin' off here for now.
God bless...
Brother Donnie