The Seven Pillars of Wisdom

Pastor White preached an awesome message on Sunday morning.  His text was Proverbs 9:1, "Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars."  His title was "The Seven Pillars of Wisdom."  I was all ready to find those pillars in Proverbs, but he took us to the book of James instead.  James 3:17 says, "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy."

Pastor White pointed out that James is considered the New Testament book of wisdom.  I reread it this week and there is so much there.  I won't try to recap his message, but I wanted to share from some of my favorite commentaries what these seven pillars mean:

 

Through the Bible Day by Day (F. B. Meyer):

Notice this exquisite string of qualities-like a thread of pearls-that characterize true wisdom: First, pure; then peaceable-this is God’s order, never peace at any price. First the holy heart, then the quiet and gentle one. Mercy and good works follow, “free from favoritism and insincerity”; and as the peace-loving soul goeth through the world, dropping the seeds of peace, those seeds produce harvests of righteousness. Those that in peace sow peace, shall reap a harvest of righteousness, the fruit of peace.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible:

Is first pure - Ἁγνη· Chaste, holy, and clean.

Peaceable - Ειρηνικη· Living in peace with others, and promoting peace among men.
 

Gentle - Επιεικης· Meek, modest, of an equal mind, taking every thing in good part, and putting the best construction upon all the actions of others.
 

Easy to be entreated - Ευπειθης· Not stubborn nor obstinate; of a yielding disposition in all indifferent things; obsequious, docile.
 

Full of mercy and good fruits - Ready to pass by a transgression, and to grant forgiveness to those who offend, and performing every possible act of kindness.  Each temper and disposition producing fruits suited to and descriptive of its nature.
 

Without partiality - Αδιακριτος· Without making a difference - rendering to every man his due; and being never swayed by self-interest, worldly honor, or the fear of man; knowing no man after the flesh. One of the Itala has it irreprehensible.
 

Without hypocrisy - Ανυποκριτος· Without dissimulation; without pretending to be what it is not; acting always in its own character; never working under a mask. Seeking nothing but God’s glory, and using no other means to attain it than those of his own prescribing.

John Gill's Exposition of the Bible:

first pure; it is pure in itself, it is free from everything that is earthly, carnal, or sensual, or devilish; it produces purity of heart, of life, and conversation; and is the means of keeping persons pure and chaste, and free from impure lusts, lusts of uncleanness, pride, envy, wrath, etc. which prevail in carnal and unregenerate men:

and then peaceable; it inclines and engages those who have it to live in peace with the saints, and even with all men; with those of their own household, with their neighbors, yea, with their enemies: 

 

it is also gentle; or makes men gentle, moderate, and humane, so as that they bear, and forbear; they bear with the infirmities of the weak; readily forgive injuries done them; do not rigidly exact what is their due, but recede from their just right for the sake of peace and love; and do not bear hard upon others for their failings, but cover them with the mantle of love:
 

easy to be intreated; or those who have it readily yield to the superior judgments and stronger reasonings of others; and are easily induced to hope and believe all things, and entertain a good opinion of men, and their conduct; and are far from being proud, arrogant, obstinate, and overbearing:
 

full of mercy and good fruits; of compassion and beneficence to the poor; feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the widows and fatherless in their affliction; and doing all other good works and duties, both with respect to God and man, as fruits of grace, and of the Spirit:
 

without partiality: to one another; or making a difference between them; showing no respect to persons; bestowing upon the poor and indigent, without any distinction: and
 

without hypocrisy; either with respect to God or man; not making show of that which they have not, or do not intend.

I know that I can't be any of these things without help from above.  James gives us the answer for that as well in James 1:5, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

How Did You Tell Your Pastor?

I've got one more re-post that I thought was fitting this week.  This was originally posted on February 12, 2013 and I'm very glad we did things the way we did.

We met so many wonderful people at New Life Pentecostal church.  I felt right at home in a multicultural church ~ you know heaven is going to be "of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues," right? (Revelation 7:9)

Anyway... we had a conversation with one of the young men of the church.  As we were getting to know each other, he asked Les, "How did you tell your pastor you were coming to Hawaii?"  I loved Les' response, "Well, it didn't work that way.  I didn't tell him anything.  We talked about the opportunity and I asked him to pray about it, to help us find the will of God."

I believe there is a balance in seeking pastoral counsel.  Every single life decision does not require that counsel.  Paper or plastic?  Eureka or Hoover vacuum?  Ford or Chevy?  But there are times when only the man of God can help.  We enjoyed our first three weeks in Hawaii as I knew we would.  But enjoying something doesn't mean it is the will of God.  I think Les must have counseled with Pastor White more in the three months he was unemployed than he had in the past 10 years!  This was such a big, life altering decision.  We could not go forward without our pastor's prayers and counsel.  I wrote a post called "What Is The Will of God?" that posted on January 22, 2013 and shared how Pastor White left a voicemail for Les the day we flew to Hawaii, part of his message was "I believe God is in this."  The will of God will always line up with His Word and when you seek godly counsel you're headed in the right direction.

I've observed many people who "tell" their pastor what they are doing.  Many times they tell him after the fact when they have a mess on their hands that they are trying to clean up.  I always want to err on the side of caution.  While my heart is a bit torn being away from Victory Tabernacle so much, I have great peace that with our pastor's prayers behind us, we are exactly where God wants us.

"And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding."  Jeremiah 3:15

I think the proper order is:
God tells the pastor
The pastor tells us
Not the other way around!

Celebrating Forty Years

This weekend Victory Tabernacle celebrated the Fortieth Pastoral Anniversary of Pastor and Sister White.  It was an incredible weekend!  It started with service Friday night, a banquet on Saturday afternoon, and a final service Sunday afternoon.  So many friends and church family members past and present were in attendance.  Our building was packed!

I didn't take a single picture on Friday night.  I got one picture on Saturday with a lifelong friend, Sis. Ruby Wilson.  I was in their wedding 40 years ago and she and her husband are responsible for us meeting!  (You can read all about it here.)

After Sunday's service, our church presented the Whites with their gifts.  Sis. White received a very large check and we were able to buy Pastor White a new car!  This took months of planning and sacrificial giving from our entire church family.  I am so thankful that we were able to do this for them.

Everyone made their way outside, then the Whites were brought out with blindfolds on...

Stunned does not even begin to describe their reaction!

It was such a privilege to honor these two great people!  They are more than deserving of double honor!  We are also thankful that Pastor White got a clean bill of health this past week - that was the icing on the cake for our church!

After the gift presentation, all the ministers and their families were provided with a delicious meal.  My final picture of the day has some amazing women in it:

 

I have known these ladies for many, many years.  Sis. Luke (first one of the left) is who I have known the longest.  She and her husband helped start a church in Clovis way back in the 70s and I attended some of the services there when I was about 12.  Many of the others I have known since I was a teenager - their husbands have preached messages at camps and conventions that remain with me still.  I'm so thankful that our pastor and first lady have such a fine group of friends that bless our church on a regular basis.

 

I have been privileged to call Pastor and Sis. White my pastor and first lady for 30 years.  I really don't have enough words to say just how much they mean to me.  I am completely blessed and so very grateful.

30 Days of Thanks, Day 15: Brighter

Victory Tabernacle is celebrating the 39th Pastoral Anniversary of Pastor and Sister White today.  We won't be able to do nearly as much as we have in the past with all the COVID restrictions, but they are worthy of double honor!

Pastor and Sister White make this world a brighter place.  They are kind and loving.  They are hard workers.  They have stepped up to the challenges of 2020 to keep our church family united. In the more than 29 years that Pastor White has been my pastor, I have never gone hungry spiritually.  He always brings a spiritual feast to the table.

During my early twenties as I waited for God to bring Mr. Right into my life, I started praying not only for my future husband, but for his pastor as well. I changed my list of things I wanted in a man to include "must belong to a good church" and even included a list of pastors that I felt I would be safe in their churches. When I met Les, and saw a future with him, I knew I was going to be in safe hands with Pastor White as my pastor - he was one of the pastors on my "list!"

One of the greatest things that Sis. White has done for our church is in developing musicians. When I married Les and became part of Victory Tabernacle, Sis. White was our only organist, with no one playing the piano/keyboard. It wasn't until Pastor and Sis. White were gone one Sunday that I realized how much we needed help. At that point, with much encouragement from Les, I secretly began taking Class Piano at our local community college. At some point, Sis. White got wind of this and said it was time for me to start playing in church!! Oh My!!! I certainly wasn't ready (sometimes I still feel unready) but she said Do It!! In time, I began playing loudly enough that people could actually hear me. But Sis. White didn't stop with me. She has repeatedly pushed, prodded, and thrown musicians into the waters of playing. We now have many talented, capable musicians and it is thanks to her vision.

 

I am so thankful for these two great people of God.  They make my world brighter!

80th Birthday Celebration

As I mentioned yesterday, Les and I were in Fresno over the weekend for Elder Morton's 80th birthday celebration.  I've written about him often.  Without a doubt, he is the most influential person in my life outside of my family.  Nearly 29 years after I left Fresno, he still calls me a few times a year just to check on me.  I truly love this great man and it was an honor to be invited to share in his special day.

There were so many wonderful things said.  The more than two hour celebration was filled with so many memories, both touching and funny.  From sons in the gospel to his own family, the speakers each had so much to say.  I just want to share my two favorites.

I loved seeing three generations of Morton men on the platform

Pastor Ron Garrett from Arizona read a letter from Pastor Gary Howard of Oklahoma.  Pastor Howard sent an amazing gift.  A few years ago he had traveled with several others to Frazier Park, California.  It was there that a youth camp took place in 1960.  Elder Morton, just 20 years old at the time, was asked to be the camp evangelist.  There was a mighty outpouring of the Spirit, with over 60 receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost.  Many received it at the "Holy Ghost Tree."  Pastor Howard took bark from that tree and had a man in his church make pens from the wood.

Two of Elder Morton's grandchildren spoke.  His granddaughter, Adriel, did an amazing job.  She had $4.00 that she said was a "bribe" as she confessed to making a mess of his backyard many years ago.  "You can buy a bag of potting soil."  She then shared a little saying Elder Morton told her the night before, "Eat good, eat slow, eat a lot."  She changed his saying to "Live good, live slow, live a lot," and gave a beautiful tribute to how he has lived.  What I didn't know until the following day was Adriel didn't know she was on the schedule until she walked in the building on Saturday!  Her dad forgot to tell her.  I thought she did outstanding, but after learning that, I was totally blown away.

After the many comments, the school choir sang.  The school has grown so much!  It was beautiful.

We then took the festivities outside and all over the grounds of Truth Tabernacle.  Multiple food stations were set up, along with games and bounce houses for the kids.  Les and I got to catch up with so many of our friends.  My phone stayed in my purse and I didn't take a single picture during that time!

If I had been given the opportunity to speak, I would have said something like this:

Bro. Morton became the pastor of Truth Tabernacle in November, 1972. I was 8 1/2 years old and still on the shy side. He says I didn't speak to him for the first 5 years he was pastor! While I don't know for sure, I wouldn't be surprised if that wasn't pretty close to the truth.

I remember many times when Bro. Morton would come to our home to pray for Rod. It didn't matter, night or day, if Mom called, he came. I also remember when Rod broke his femur and was in a body cast. Naturally, everyone who came to visit signed his cast. Not Bro. Morton! He signed Rod's leg - "just to make sure your momma's washing you!"

Memories too numerous to recount come to mind, but my world changed completely when Bro. Morton asked me to work in the church office. I was a junior in high school, attending Truth Tabernacle Christian School in its first year of existence. I started working part time in the afternoons instead of taking electives, then worked full time in the summer. I had no idea I would end up working there for ten years. How can I even describe the impact those years made in my life? His constant encouragement and kind words when I did something right helped me come out of my shy shell. What fun I had WORKING! The many times he would jump from around some corner ("only the guilty jump"), the notes on my calendar, the smiley faces in red ink, on and on those memories go.
 

My going away party after 10 years on the staff

There were words of wisdom and encouragement when I was down. One particular day comes to mind - I had just walked into the church lobby from the Christian school and Bro. Morton met me there. He took me inside the sanctuary and told me he was proud of me, among many other things. He always seemed to know what I needed to hear. Another day he gave me a scripture that became a promise, "sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall" (Ruth 3:18).
 

I'm so thankful that Elder Morton is still in my life, he is very dear to my heart, and I love him so much.

Treasured Times

Victory Tabernacle was blessed this weekend with a special guest - Elder Vaughn Morton.  He preached our Jubilee service (combined service with our three daughter churches) on Saturday and was with us in service on Sunday.  Les and I were also blessed to go to lunch with Pastor and Sister White and Elder Morton yesterday.

I've written many times about the impact Elder Morton has had on my life.  My pastor for 19 years and my boss for 10 of those years.  His preaching has inspired and convicted.  His teaching laid a foundation that I still rely on today.

Elder Morton preached a message last night that I have heard countless times.  He told me he preached it before becoming pastor in Fresno, so I'm sure I heard it for the first time before I was 10.  It is one that has helped me so many times.  As soon as he read his text I told Les the title, "Forgive Yourself."  This beautiful concept is one that we all need to learn and embrace.  A victorious Christian life happens when we really understand the forgiveness of God and the power of the blood.

The key verse is 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  We just have to do one thing and God does four!  When we confess our sins, God:

1. is faithful
2. is just
3. forgives our sins
4. cleanses us from all unrighteousness

It's the best four to one exchange around.  There's nothing more for us to do.  We don't have to pay any penance.  Where many people go wrong is when they go back to the cemetery of their past.  We will never forget all our sins, but we can know they when they are forgiven God has forgotten them.  Since He forgives us, we need to forgive ourselves.  We closed the book on the past last night.

After service, Elder Morton had his book "The Road Called Life," available.  Pastor White asked me to sell them.  While I was sitting on the pew with the books, Elder Morton sat and visited for a while.  He also gave me a beautiful new pocket knife, because "every lady ought to have a pocket knife!"

I'm so thankful for this special man in my life.  A hug, an "I love you," and "I'll see you in the rapture," and he was off to his next destination!

Pastor Appreciation ~ Grandpa and Grandma McElhaney

I decided to finish my Pastor Appreciation Week with a post about Grandpa and Grandma McElhaney. When they received the revelation of this marvelous truth, they embraced it and passed it on. They left a great heritage to many generations.

In the fall of 1933 Grandpa and Grandma first came into contact with the Apostolic message. Grandpa was the first to be baptized in Jesus' name, while Grandma resisted. Finally, one cold night, the winter of 1935, she jumped up at the end of the service and said she wanted to be baptized. There was two feet of snow on the ground. It was so cold and ice in the tank had to be broken to baptize her. She had brought no change of clothing and had to walk almost two miles home in her wet clothes. By the time she got home her clothing was frozen on her. Shortly after that she received the Holy Ghost and the following summer, Grandpa received the Holy Ghost at home.

Grandpa founded a church in New Castle, Indiana in 1936 and pastored from 1936-1950. There is still a Jesus name church in that city today! Pictured below is the congregation in about 1945. Grandpa had a weekly radio broadcast and held street meetings on Saturday nights.


Both of Les' grandparents were licensed Pentecostal ministers before the formation of the United Pentecostal Church International in 1945. The organization was created by the merger of the Pentecostal Church Incorporated and the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ. Grandma Marie belonged to one of the organizations and Grandpa Earl belonged to the other!

Grandpa died in 1989, the same year Les and I met, so I was not privileged to know him. I met Grandma Marie on a couple of occasions and although her body was failing, her mind was still sharp and she loved being surrounded by her family. At her funeral, her grandson Allen told quite a story. Grandma was part of the church when Allen became the pastor in Panama City, FL. From that time forward, she always addressed him as Bro. Crabtree, showing respect to his role as her pastor.

Grandpa and Grandma moved to Panama City, Florida in 1950. They returned to Indiana for about a year in 1953, then pastored in Florida until his retirement in 1972. A large, loud, loving extended family gathers in Florida each Thanksgiving. Descendants of Earl and Marie McElhaney, many involved in the ministry and still loving the truth that these two embraced so long ago.

Pastor Appreciation ~ Pastor Richard McGriffin

My acquaintance with Pastor McGriffin (AKA Pastor Mac) is the most recent.  January 2013 found us moving "temporarily" to Hawaii.  What we thought would be a six month stay has turned in to almost five years of part time Hawaiian living.   As I mentioned on Sunday, with Pastor White's assistance we found New Life Pentecostal and Pastor and Sis. Mac.

I realized never shared about how Les first "met" Pastor Mac via telephone.  Pastor White had called and talked to Pastor Mac, then told Les to give him a call.  It was the Monday night before we would go to Hawaii on Friday in January 2013.  Les called Pastor Mac and after a brief greeting, Pastor Mac said he would need to call Les back.  Les could hear a lot of noise in the background and thought he must have been in a restaurant.  A few minutes later Les' phone rang.  On the other end a voice said, "Is this Les McElhaney?  Do you know who this is?"  To make a long story short, it was Pastor Ron Becton from Nashville, Tennessee.  Bro. and Sis. Becton (Les' former youth leader) were in Hawaii for a marriage retreat and were having dinner with the McGriffins that night!  Bro. Becton's confidence in, and friendship with, Pastor Mac was that final piece of peace we needed.

Pastor Mac faces some unique challenges in pastoring in Hawaii.  Many people are only there for vacation, they aren't interested in putting down roots and investing in a church.  Many people who live there are in the military, which means they move after just a few years.  We've seen a lot of people come and go in these past five years.  It can't be easy pastoring sheep who don't stay in the same pasture for long, but Pastor Mac loves everyone who comes to NLP, no matter how long or how short their stay.  He teaches and preaches with the same passion no matter how many are missing.

We don't go hungry spiritually when we are in Hawaii.  I am so thankful that this couple is in our lives.  We're blessed to know them!

Pastor Appreciation ~ Pastor Philip White

I knew of Bro. White long before he became my pastor. He was the Youth President in the Western District and I had heard him preach at various camps and conferences. He also preached a revival in Fresno before he pastored in Burbank.

During my early twenties as I waited for God to bring Mr. Right into my life, I started praying not only for my future husband, but for his pastor as well. I changed my list of things I wanted in a man to include "must belong to a good church" and even included a list of pastors that I felt I would be safe in their churches. When I met Les, and saw a future with him, I knew I was going to be in safe hands with Pastor White as my pastor - he was one of the pastors on my "list!"

When Les and I were going to buy our first house (we lived in a townhouse for almost 10 years), things were moving very quickly. On a Thursday in January 2001, we set up an appointment to meet with Pastor White for his counsel. The appointment was for the following Monday. From Thursday to Monday, our offer on the house had been accepted, and we had an offer on our townhouse. Well that was kinda scary to us. But Pastor White gave us wisdom that I will never forget. He said, "sometimes when God is in it, He makes things move very quickly." His assurance brought peace to my troubled mind.

For over 26 years, I have been pastored by Pastor White and I truly love, admire, and respect him. His wisdom is amazing, his preaching anointed, and his burden for the work of God far reaching. Pastor and Sister White have been there for us through funerals and surgeries, but they have also rejoiced in our times of blessing. They are great people of God.

Pastor Appreciation ~ Pastor Vaughn Morton

Bro. Morton became the pastor of Truth Tabernacle in November, 1972. I was 8 1/2 years old and still on the shy side. He says I didn't speak to him for the first 5 years he was pastor! While I don't know for sure, I wouldn't be surprised if that wasn't pretty close the truth.

I remember many times when Bro. Morton would come to our home to pray for Rod. It didn't matter, night or day, if Mom called, he came. I also remember when Rod broke his femur and was in a body cast. Naturally, everyone who came to visit signed his cast. Not Bro. Morton! He signed Rod's leg - "just to make sure your momma's washing you!"

Memories too numerous to recount come to mind, but my world changed completely when Bro. Morton asked me to work in the church office. I was a junior in high school, attending Truth Tabernacle Christian School in its first year of existence. I started working part time in the afternoons instead of taking electives, then worked full time in the summer. I had no idea I would end up working there for ten years. How can I even describe the impact those years made in my life? His constant encouragement and kind words when I did something right helped me come out of my shy shell. What fun I had WORKING! The many times he would jump from around some corner ("only the guilty jump"), the notes on my calendar, the smiley faces in red ink, on and on those memories go.

There were words of wisdom and encouragement when I was down. One particular day comes to mind - I had just walked into the church lobby from the Christian school and Bro. Morton met me there. He took me inside the sanctuary and told me he was proud of me, among many other things. He always seemed to know what I needed to hear. Another day he gave me a scripture that became a promise, "sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall" (Ruth 3:18).

I'm so thankful that Elder Morton is still in my life, he is very dear to my heart, and I love him so much. I called him last week after I received his book.  He is no longer pastoring, but he is as busy as ever being a blessing to the kingdom of God everywhere he goes.

Pastor Appreciation ~ Pastor Murray Layne

Bro. Layne was Mom's pastor at the time of my birth.  It was Bro. Layne who grounded Mom in the truth. I naturally don't remember any of those details, but I do remember being a child and being very aware of Bro. Layne as the man of God in our church. It was during his 19 years of dedication and service that many decisions were made that put Truth Tabernacle on a sure path. Truth was preached, property was purchased, buildings were built, a bus ministry was started, and a great revival of "hippies" took place under his leadership.

I remember services in what is now the school cafeteria at Truth Tabernacle. We had hard benches and no carpet on the floor, but God moved in mighty ways. Bro. Layne baptized me in the old baptistry in the back of that building on January 11, 1971. I can picture that night as if it happened yesterday. What a privilege to be baptized in the lovely name of Jesus by my pastor!

I also remember building the "big church", which is now the prayer room/school chapel. I can still see that day when we broke ground out on the corner of First and Holland. What an exciting time of anticipation!

I'll also never forget when Bro. Layne announced to the church that God was calling him to another city. I was only eight years old at the time and didn't fully understand the implications, but I remember Mom saying, "How will I ever love another pastor like I love Bro. Layne and his family?" Thankfully God had just the right person in mind to pastor Truth Tabernacle, but the Layne family has always held a special place in my heart.

I remember seeing Bro. and Sis. Layne through the years, and as I got older they just grew dearer and dearer to me. They have both gone on to be with the Lord now, but I look forward to the day when we meet again in front of the throne.

Pastor Appreciation Week

I posted the writing prompts for this week but won't be using any of them. October is Clergy Appreciation month and I want to spend this week giving honor where honor is due.  I have had four pastors in my lifetime - Pastor Murray Layne, Pastor Vaughn Morton, Pastor Philip White, and Pastor Richard McGriffin.  They have each impacted my life in tremendous ways.

I often hear people say, "My pastor is the greatest!"  I don't use that phrase because I have had more than one pastor.  I don't rank them, choosing one as greater than another.  Just like a parent shouldn't play favorites, I don't have a favorite pastor.  They ALL mean a great deal to me.  They have been with me through different parts of my life.

We have been in a unique situation for almost five years now.  We spend a lot of our time in Hawaii because of Les' job.  Last year we were on the island for six weeks straight, two different times.  We need a pastor in our lives where we are, so when we are in Hawaii we put ourselves under the authority of Pastor McGriffin.  We trusted Pastor White to guide us in choosing a church on Oahu and we trust Pastor McGriffin to take care of us spiritually while we are there.  We feel very blessed to have both these men in our life.

Jeremiah 3:15 says, "And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding."  I am thankful for the pastors that God has given me.  Les and I are now in our 50s, both Pastor White and Pastor McGriffin are in their 60s.  I realize that my next pastor will most likely be younger than me.  When that day comes, I will trust God to give me the right man for the job, and I will respect that man no matter his age.

The best way to show appreciation to your pastor? Be the Best Saint Your Pastor Has Ever Pastored! Make his job easy!

How do we make our pastors' jobs easier? Stand with him. Pray for him. Support him financially. Grow in God. Have a personal prayer life. Read the Word. Be on time for church. Be on time for pre-service prayer and pray when you get there. Fight the fiery darts of the wicked. Fight the flames of gossip, rebellion, disobedience, and discontent. When you go to him for counsel - do what he says. Give your pastor time to rest. Time to study. Time to spend with new babes. The list could go on and on, but you get the idea!  Be the Best Saint Your Pastor Has Ever Pastored!  And not just in October!

35th Pastoral Anniversary Weekend

I have a TON of catching up to do!  We moved home on Halloween and we are really glad to be here.  (Just to clarify - Les still works for the company in Hawaii so we will still be going there but will not be staying for long stretches like we have most of this year.)  I'll get back to our final weekend on Oahu later this week, but today I want to talk about this weekend...

Victory Tabernacle celebrated the 35th Pastoral Anniversary of Pastor and Sister White this weekend.  It was such a beautiful celebration and I stayed in the moment while my phone stayed in my purse and I did not take a single picture.  Pastor and Sister White have been a tremendous blessing to Victory Tabernacle in Burbank for these many years.  They are loving and giving and faithful.  They are loved and respected by so many which was evidenced by the many guests who came to celebrate with us.

We kicked things off Friday night.  Service started at 7:30.  When Les and I arrived at 6:45 both parking lots were full and we parked on the street.  The building was packed.  As service started and more folks came, chairs were brought in.  We heard from one of the saints of Victory Tabernacle, Bro. Leo Alcocer, who shared what the Whites mean to him.  Three of Pastor White's friends then spoke - Pastors Tom Johnson, Ron Garrett (my first youth leader!) and B.J. Wilmoth.  They each had stories to share and kind words.

Our speaker for the weekend was Elder Vaughn Morton.  It was such a treat to have him with us.  He retired from pastoring Truth Tabernacle in Fresno 2 1/2 years ago and he has stayed busy, busy, busy!  On Friday night he talked about the past, giving honor to Pastor and Sister White.  He had Sister White join him on the platform and kept saying, "I'll get to you later!"

After the preaching we saw a slideshow of pictures of 35 years of memories.  Two building programs, revivals, evangelism, dramas, family trips and much more.  We then enjoyed a time of fellowship with ministers and their wives after service.  It was so good to talk to so many!  It was well past my bedtime when I finally looked at the time on my phone but well worth it.

Sunday morning started with Les teaching our Adult Sunday school class.  This quarter we have been studying the Sermon on the Mount and Les has brought much insight to these great teachings of Jesus.  It was another outstanding lesson.  Ask anyone who sits in on those classes and you will know I am not biased at all when I say that.

We were blessed with more guests who came just to show honor to our first couple.  It was so good to see Elder and Sister Gerald Buxton and many pastor wives.  Sister Blanca Mejia testified in Spanish, telling what the Whites have meant to her through the years.  Pastor White's sister, Sister Kaye Singleton, blessed us with a song about the faithfulness of God.  I love this sweet lady!

Our Sunday morning worship service is mostly in Spanish with the preaching translated.  Elder Morton gave us just a nugget of his message "Just Let It Unfold."  This is such a classic message and I would have loved to hear the entire message.  We then had a beautiful move of God during the altar service.

I spent Sunday afternoon getting food ready for our post-service potluck!  I made Broccoli and Cranberry Salad, Butternut Squash Bake, and Baked Mushroom Chicken.  It's a known fact that if you go hungry at a church potluck it is no one's fault but your own!

Sunday night's service was our final celebration.  Bro. Frankie Ayala and Sis. Vivian Gonzalez both spoke about what the Whites mean to them.  I was on the schedule to sing and took the opportunity to talk about Sister White's great influence on our music department.  I have been playing for 25 years now and Sister White is directly responsible for that!  I shared a few stories and then had all of our musicians stand.  It was a beautiful sight to see how many musicians we now have.  As I said last night, one of the greatest things that has happened is Sister White no longer needs to play the organ for altar service so she can freely pray with those in need in the altars.  We also heard from our three branch pastors.  Again, the church was packed with visitors and saints from Burbank and our branch works.

Elder Morton preached to us about our future.  We celebrated our past, but it's time to keep moving forward!  He exhorted us to focus on evangelism, to not worry about where we would put people when the church is full - God will provide!  He was so anointed and so funny as only Elder Morton can be!  Victory Tabernacle has a bright future.

Following the altar service Brother Hector Flores read a letter celebrating Pastor and Sister White.  (Les wrote it and with his permission I might post it tomorrow.)  We then presented the Whites with a gift of a "Romantic River Cruise" on the Danube.  Les and I thought about taking this cruise when we were planning our 25th anniversary trip and I know they will have a great time!  There is no gift big enough to say how much we appreciate them.  I know our greatest gift is each of us living for God and reaching out to others.

We concluded the night with our potluck.  It seemed like no one wanted to leave!  We just stayed and ate and talked and laughed.  It was after midnight when Les and I finally drifted off to sleep. 

I woke this morning with a heart that is full.  We will celebrate Thanksgiving next week, but I am extremely thankful today!  It was a blessed weekend and I am looking forward to what God has in store next.

Goodbye 2014 ~ My 50th Was a Mighty Good Year!

I just want to spend a little time reflecting today.  I'm going through my posts of 2014 and am writing as I think, so this may be a little disjointed!!

I wrote my number one goal for 2014 on January 1st.  Based on Psalm 119:65:  "Love His Law, so that I will have Great Calmness of Mind; Leaving it All in God's Hands, I will be Kept Safe, and Nothing will Cause Me to Stumble!"  I have had many opportunities to be offended this year - more than any other that I can remember.  People have been cruel at times, but I have prayed and held on to the promise that as long as I love His law, nothing is going to cause me to stumble.

Of course the key in all of this has been spending time in God's word (loving His Law.)  I finished my Bible reading this morning.  My plan was to finish today - not in June!  My goal was to read my Bible EVERY day.  I think there may have been about 5 or 6 times that I got behind, but never more than a day.  Today's reading included:

Malachi chapters 3-4 - the Lord has certainly opened the windows of heaven in my life and poured out more blessings than I've had room to receive.
Psalm 150 - Let every thing that hath breath (that's me!) praise the Lord!
Proverbs 31:25-31 - Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.
Revelation chapter 22 - Even so, even so, come, Lord Jesus.

So many times my reading for the day was EXACTLY what I needed.  There have been several times when a message was preached and I have told Les, "That was in my Bible reading this week."  God's word is always new and rich.  I have also learned so much from the many commentaries in e-Sword.

Of course this year has been full of wonderful friends.  My friends far outnumber those who have hurt me.  It's easy to forget that when you're being hurt, but I am so grateful for so many.  Friends far and near who text, email, call, or leave blog comments.  Dear ones who see me at church and simply ask, "Are you okay?"  You'll never know how much you've helped me.

I am blessed to have two church families who are so dear.  Victory Tabernacle and New Life Pentecostal both seem like home to me.  Hugs and handshakes, smiles and shared prayer times.  God's family is the best!  Heaven is going to be an amazing, wonderful place.  I think the food will be delicious, too!

My health has been very good.  All my tests came back normal.  My biggest concern the past few years is always when I have my mammogram.  Mom was my age when her cancer was found, so I get a little nervous going in and rejoice when I get the notice in the mail that every thing is fine!  I've continued to run and ride my bike.  I finished my third marathon a few weeks ago.  I don't write as much about running here anymore, but if you want more (such as my training plans and weekly recaps) you can read them at McMarathon Moments.  It's private, but I'll happily send you an invite if you're interested.

We were so blessed to be able to attend Elder Morton's retirement service in March.  It was a wonderful evening of reflection, laughter and tears.  Outside of my family, his is the greatest influence on my life.  I've only been back to Truth Tabernacle once since then, but I am so happy to see the church continuing on in revival under the leadership of Pastor Tim Lackey.

I turned 50 in April and Les declared it was "50-50 Time."  From April 27th until August 18th, we would both be 50 and would enjoy as many 50-50 bar type desserts as possible!  Our favorite being shave ice with ice cream on the bottom.

One of the greatest parts of 2014 has been the tremendous revival that is taking place at Victory Tabernacle.  I don't know how many have received the Holy Ghost and been baptized, but I know it's more than we've ever seen before in a single year.  Nine children and young people received the Holy Ghost at Youth Camp.  Every service there are visitors and new converts. There is always someone to pray with in the altar and that is a beautiful thing!  I love sitting behind this little doll who has finally started smiling at me...

Les did a beautiful job remodeling our downstairs bathroom.  There really isn't anything he can't do.  Last week he completely stripped all the parts off one of his bikes and moved them to his other bike as an upgrade.

When we "moved" home in February, we really didn't know how often we would go back to Hawaii.  Our first trip was at the end of April.  We were only there about 10 days.  Les quickly realized that he needed more time in the office than that.  We then went back in August, October and December.  God has blessed Les in his job.  2013 was one of the worst years the company has seen, but 2014 was the best!  He was on a business call at 6:00 this morning and it looks like 2015 is going to be even greater!

I had a lot of fun hosting Flat Dustyn while we were on Oahu in October.  I loved this picture from his teacher - he is so fun and 100% boy!

I continued to find encouragement from Mom's Bible. It doesn't take the place of an actual conversation with her (I still miss those so much!) but it is a help. I've also enjoyed reading many books.  Top of the list for 2014 was "Run to Overcome" - lots of life and running lessons by Meb Keflezighi, winner of the 2014 Boston Marathon.

We spent some of the final days of 2014 on Maui, in our favorite condos - The Aston Mahana at Ka'anapali.  Each room is ocean front.  We watched giant sea turtles from our lanai, and on our final morning spotted whales in the channel between Maui and Molokai.  We saw them breach several times, something we didn't see on our whale watching adventure.  It was a special show just for us!

And finally, this guy:

There's no one I would rather spend my days with.  He works hard.  He loves me unconditionally.  He supports me and encourages me and prays for me.  He makes me laugh like no one else can.  I'm so blessed to be going in to 2015 with him!

Happy New Year! Wherever the road may lead, may 2015 be YOUR best year ever!

Weekend Getaway

We took a road trip this past weekend and it was a whirlwind!  We drove up to Fresno Friday afternoon.  Les was up bright and early Saturday morning and headed to North Fork for the 22nd Annual Grizzly Century bike ride.  I got up not too long after he left and went for an eight mile run.  Then it was time to get ready for Ladies Day at Truth Tabernacle.

The guest speakers at Ladies Day this year are very dear to my heart - our very own Pastor and Sister White!  Sis. White did an excellent job as she spoke about prayer.  There is nothing more powerful than a praying woman.  Sis. White had Sis. Caroline Rogers and her daughter, Stephanie Barnes, sing the song "If I Have To."  There's no "if" about it - we have to stay on our knees.

I'll stay on my knees if I have to
I'll fight to the bitter end
I will not be defeated
Cause I've put all my trust in Him
So say what you please
I'll stay on my knees
Praying for you… if I have to.

Pastor White's title was "Thank God for the Preacher's Wife."  Such a powerful message!  From the time I was 8 until I was 27, I did not have a pastor's wife, but I have been blessed by many preachers wives who have helped me in my journey.

The Tarazons and I were the last ones out of the building!  So many friends to see and hug and talk to!  From one month old Avaughna Mantooth (I taught her mother, Tara, in Sunday school) to dear Irene Wilkinson (who taught me in Sunday school) and so many in between.

Les and I enjoyed Sunday morning service at Truth Tabernacle, our first since Elder Morton retired.  It is wonderful to see the church in good hands with Bro. and Sis. Tim Lackey.  It's always good to sit with my aunt and uncle, Joyce and Ken Gilstrap - I'm so glad they are part of Truth Tabernacle.  

We didn't get to visit with very many because we had lunch reservations with Kim, Rodney, Lauren and Krysten, so we slipped out before service was completely over.  We met for lunch at Sakura Chaya.  Catching up while watching our chef prepare our meal was a lot of fun.  And we even took a few pictures before hitting the road!  We made it home just in time for Sunday night service in Victory Tabernacle!

These three, right here, mean the world to me!  Love them SO much! (That can be said about the picture above and the picture below!)

Friday This and That

I had an amazing run this morning. 10 miles up and over Tantalus Mountain. The moon was still up when I headed out.

Just five miles from the concrete jungle of Honolulu, a tropical forest!

On my way home I was listening to the local Christian radio station. They play only local artists on Friday mornings.  The morning host, "Aunty Dawn," is fun to listen to.  They have asked people to write in about their pastors.  Seven year old Emma wrote a sweet letter about her pastor.  One part was really funny:

First, the pastor has to pick out some really nice clothes to wear and fix his hair nice.
Second, he should pray and talk to God.

Aunty Dawn stopped reading at that point.  "I just want to clarify that I think the second point is a little more important than the first!"  The things that kids notice!

I've posted many pictures of sunrises, but last nights sky at sunset was spectacular!

Happy Friday!

Hui Olakino

I had my annual physical last week.  Our insurance is currently in Hawaii, so I needed to find a new doctor.  I found Doctor Bianca Bryant-Greenwood and couldn't have been happier.  She is very personable and took time to get to know me.  

The name of her practice is Hui Olakino - which is Hawaiian for Healthy Partnership.  Her website says, "I believe that in working together with my patients, I can help them to improve their health. It is through this collaboration and the patient's ownership of their health that I hope change and improvement can occur. "

That is exactly what I'm looking for in doctor.  Doctors spend years in school, they work hard to obtain knowledge and expertise, but if I ignore her advice, I'm wasting both of our time.  She knows what tests I need and when to give me a flu shot, but as Dr. Greenwood said, "I can't follow my patients around all day making sure they eat right and exercise."  It's got to be a healthy partnership.

I couldn't help but compare that to other relationships.  I need a Healthy Partnership with the man of God in my life.  Pastors study, pray, prepare, preach and teach.  But if I skip church, or just ignore what is preached, we will have an unhealthy partnership.  Your pastor can't be with you every moment of the day reminding you to pray and read your Bible, you must be part of the partnership.

Marriages need Hui Olakino.  It takes both parties to make a marriage work.  We attended a wedding on Saturday.  Pastor White gave the couple some words of wisdom.  To the bride he said, "Men can be charmed into anything.  Nagging and complaining doesn't work."  To the groom he said, "Women respect genuine humility in a man.  Don't be a know it all."  We can't spend our days nagging or being too proud to ask for help.  Working together will create a beautiful marriage.

Families, friendships, and co-workers - none of these relationships will be healthy without everyone working together.  Romans 12:18 says, "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."  I want more Hui Olakino in my life, how about you?

A Modest Definition

Pastor White preached an awesome message last night entitled "The Regret of Samson's Parents."  Samson was to be a Nazarite from his mother's womb.  This was a vow that normally was not taken until adulthood, but God had a great plan for Samson's life and he needed to be consecrated from an early age.

Pastor White had one of our young ladies come up front.  Destiny and her siblings started coming to church on our Sunday school van.  This summer her parents started coming and it is wonderful to see them all in church together.  Destiny is in 8th grade.  She wrote a letter to her school principal explaining her beliefs about modesty so she could dress accordingly during her P.E. class.  Destiny didn't say "my pastor" or "my church" said, she told her principal that is how she believes.  She is learning to stand for God at a young age.

Pastor White then demonstrated from an iPhone the definition of modest.  I didn't know you could do this, but go to the Notes app and type in the word Modest:

Select the word and choose Define:

 

Here is the iPhone definition of Modest:

 Point #3

 

Just in case you can't read it:

3 (of a woman) dressing or behaving so as to avoid impropriety or indecency, esp. to avoid attracting sexual attention.
(of clothing) not revealing or emphasizing the figure: modest dress means the hemlines must be below the knee.

This didn't come from a Bible dictionary or a Pentecostal handbook.  This came from the iPhone!  The next time someone asks why your skirt is so long, take them to your iPhone!