MEANWHILE BACK AT THE RANCH
The old adages eventually make their way to the surface of my noggin and pop up like a Jack-In-The-Box clown without warning. The pondering and contemplation are the cranks of the squeaky metal handle. Round and round it goes with no evidence as to when the weasel goes “Pop!” Then, just like magician’s “Abracadabra!” there it is. “Presto,” without warning.
Sometime back while penning a post here in La-La Land another old adage from childhood resurfaced and fell into the writing order of a post I can’t even recall the subject of, but the adage rejoined the ranks of my conscious mind. Β Of course like all good adages, it’s gonna get dissected like a frog in biology class.
I first heard the adage as a kid without knowing its origin. I think the voice was that of Rex Allen, the famous narrator for cowboy movies and eventually the lighter Walt Disney kid movies. His voice was the perfect “Arizona Cowboy” to deliver the now even more infamous words, “Meanwhile back at the ranch.”
It’s my understanding that the origin of the phrase was in the pioneer days of movies, the silent black and whites that had captions to help the lucky moviegoers follow the story line. The now famous and slowly fading adage was used more for humor in my generation and I too have indulged myself with its clever usage more than once.
While I’m fairly certain not everyone reading this has a ranch, I am certain there are things going on in the lives of all of us that intriguing stories are made up of. Just like the books and movies of old, there is a common denominator to all interest piquing stories… conflict.
There have been times in my life when I felt like the hero fighting and risking much to get what I loved untied from the railroad tracks while the train was bearing down, blowing the whistle, life stealing stress on the victim, the helpless engineer, and the hero, risking his life to the hard thing, the right thing.
There have also been times when I’ve felt like the helpless damsel tied to the railroad tracks, or the guy with his foot caught between the railroad ties, relying on God and other’s bravery for my rescue while I glanced back in terror at the life threatening scenario playing out before my saucer wide eyes.
We all have conflict in our lives. We have back stories that should be on the cover of our hearts while we share our thoughts, hopes, and dreams here. You know little of mine and I know little of yours. Meanwhile back at the ranch, we have life jolting issues playing out in a drama that has little comedic flavor. Some of usΒ have loved ones tied to the tracks by bonds made up of addictions, pride, ego, ignorance, and the characters that accompany this cast in real life that play the antagonists are far too real. Some of my fellow family in Christ have experienced soul-crushing loss…
Heroes are made and sent by our Father to be the hands of courage, wisdom, bravery, and action. There will be discomfort and possibly even downright pain, but it is His truth that sets us free from the ties that bind. May we be the heroes in the stories that matter more than the ones on New York Times best-seller list.
I think maybe we should consider sharing more details of our lives and keep in mind as we do that all of us have a story, all of us are up against our own protagonists with some type of conflict… back at the ranch…
Hazel I Moon
Saturday, August 24, 2013 @ 6:33 pm
This is so true, we all have some sort of conflict going on most of the time. Health issues, loved ones risking their lives with drugs etc. If we knew more of the details we might know how to effective pray. It is difficult to write bare faced, as some of us do, and God bless those who don’t care to share more. I can understand the reasons too!
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 8:44 am
I hear you, Hazel. That was my thoughts too; to be able to pray more for one another. I can only imagine what we’re missing out on! It’s a careful walk and it takes time, but for example, when the fires were threatening your home… I would have liked to have known that so I could send one up… clearly you had enough prayers! but just as an example. We all have conflict… Thanks, Hazel.
Ngina Otiende
Saturday, August 24, 2013 @ 6:40 pm
I am not familiar with the saying Floyd…but you you have explained it so well π I’ve been doing a bit of sharing on my blog and i like something someone said, in the lines of it’s the past story that makes the present one compelling.
We all have happenings back at the ranch. So often it’s about finding out how the Lord wants to use it.
I’ve found that my ideas and God ideas are pretty different, He likes bringing out the parts i want to leave unsaid and wants to leave unsaid what I’d like to shout from the roof-tops π
Thanks for this.
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 8:46 am
You summed up my desires and our Father’s perfectly, Ngina! Funny how our minds and flesh drift away from His will. The hard thing is usually the right thing… Wise words for me to ponder… and I’m sure there will be the popping Jack-In-The-Box shortly! Thanks, Ngina.
Nancy
Saturday, August 24, 2013 @ 6:57 pm
Some time ago, I remember a Pastor relating something that occurred in his life. It was unexpected and many people jumped to conclusions. As it was, they were wrong. His advice to us was that when we found ourselves in a circumstance or situation involving someone else, we should ask the Holy Spirit HOW we should enter into that person’s life or circumstance, and for Him to direct our prayers. We should not assume anything but wait for revelation knowledge before blundering in on our own. People often do not share because of all the “free” advice hurled their way. Some other people let it all hang out ( there’s a descriptive saying for you!)and expect everyone else to be their Savior, while they bear no personal responsibility whatsoever. I’m sure there is a balance. One thing I Do know, is that the Holy Spirit is always directing – we may not always be in tune to pick up His “vibes”. I have been so removed from blog gins and such lately, but I was actually going to write a piece about that. Something God dropped on my heart and when I acted on it, ( via facebook), I could see How God expects HIS body to work and why. We are the skin-covered voice of our Father to those who may need it. Good post…provoked my little gray cells~!
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 8:51 am
“We are the skin-covered voice of our Father to those who may need it.” Your entire comment is bursting with wisdom! I tend to be the epitome of the “Blundering in on our own.” You’re right of course, people tend to judge before they pray… I hope that we can continue to use the love and wisdom of God to do the hard things, the right things and honor Him and strengthen His church. You’re presence is sorely missed, Nancy! Thanks for taking the time and I’m looking forward to reading that post of yours.
saleslady371
Saturday, August 24, 2013 @ 8:13 pm
I couldn’t agree more. Conflict really changes me. Yesterday I experienced a new phase of powerful surrender I never knew before because I get overwhelmed with the emotions I feel when so many in the Body of Christ are suffering with so much stuff and I have to stop and rest in Christ. We are praying and surrendering like crazy here too because of all the spiritual warfare our daughter and granddaughter are going through right now. And we should share ourselves more, you’re right. People really do care. I appreciate your dropping by my site and pulling me off the tracks with your kind comment!
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 9:05 am
As family members in Christ, we truly do care about one another. When I heard what you were going through it made me stop and say a prayer for you and your family. This storm shall pass and only our Father knows what will be gained… and what the locusts will have eaten will be restored. Praying for you and yours. God bless and thanks for helping bring us closer to the will of our Father.
Mia
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 12:47 am
Dear Floyd
As I was giggling through your post I couldn’t help but think of how Pappa, back at the “ranch”, cleans up after us all our messes, while disciplining us in the right direction, washing us between the toes and behind the ears with so much love and all we do is squeal and squirm for dear life, thinking of acceptable ways to be spared the cleaning process, but to no avail for Pappa always does a very good job! I needed this good laugh today, thanks my brother! Hope you and you family are having a great Sunday back at your ranch!!
Blessings XX
Mia
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 9:13 am
Thanks right back at you for the chuckle, Mia! Great analogy of how we squirm as our Father cleans up us and our messes. And a blessed and restful day to you as well, sister. God bless.
Doug Blair
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 7:25 am
Life jolting issues…back at the ranch. Floyd you are not in La-La-Land at all. Very good stuff. Admonishes us not to judge.
http://momentsmidstream.blogspot.ca/2009/06/song-of-wire.html
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 9:15 am
Thanks, Doug. With all that we’ve been given grace over, you’d think His church would be the last people to point a finger. Nice summary… and the pondering begins again!
bill (cycleguy)
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 12:12 pm
I talked to your wife and she said you were in La-La Land a lot. π Meanwhile, back at my ranch, my wife rolls her eyes and doesn’t say anything. She doesn’t have to. Her rolling eyes say all she needs to say: Doodoodoo (think theme from Twilight Zone). You say some good stuff here Floyd. It is so easy to get focused on the bad and the hurt, we miss what is going on in the background (back at the ranch) in God’s eyes. If only I can put my life on pause and switch channels I would be able to see that. Or at least slow down long enough to see Him.
Floyd
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 1:17 pm
Too clever, Bill! I so get a kick out of reading your heart and personality! Not to mention that your gift of discernment is so good I actually considered that you really had talked to my wife!
We miss the things that we’re called to look after. I thank you for the personal prayers you’ve sent up for me and mine, that’s what I’m talkin’ about. Thanks for the pondering you’ve presented for me and the chuckle, Bill.
Joanne Norton
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 7:14 pm
Well, just as you say…and you know…so do I. And that’s why I wrote my “Annie Project” book. AND why it needs to be published and spread around. So people will know reality and know how our Lord can break in and turn lives around. That’s the focus.
As usual, Floyd, good sharing, good thinking.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:25 am
“Our Lord can break in and turn lives around.” Amen, Joanne. That’s exactly it. We have in common the strength of our Father within us and we need to bond together to pray into the lives of one another to lift up His name and His children. I know that’s your heart and ministry. Thanks, Joanne.
Caleb Suko
Sunday, August 25, 2013 @ 10:38 pm
Back at the ranch for us right now half the kids are sick and I’m just coming out of it too! We’re also starting homeschool this week so that’s making things interesting!
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:31 am
Thanks for sharing what happening “meanwhile back at your ranch,” Caleb. I’m praying for a healing for your entire family and for a great school year your family. That’s what I’m talking about! May God bless you and yours, Caleb! Thanks for sharing!
Dan Erickson
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 6:20 am
Sharing those details is what can help us to heal and bounce back from devastating losses and hard circumstances. Great post, Floyd.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:32 am
Yep. I know you know that lesson better than most of us, if not all. The seasoning and wisdom gained in the times of trouble and sharing builds up the rest of us with the heart of our Father. Thanks, Dan.
Barb Raveling
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 7:34 am
Interesting post, Floyd. I would love to hear more about people’s lives. I’ve often thought how strange Internet relationships are. It’s like we’re friends, but we don’t know people in the context of their everyday lives. Normally when you have a close friend you know all about their families, their circumstances, how they respond to life, etc, because you walk through it with them. But it’s hard to share everything on our blogs because everything involves other people who may not want to show up on our blogs. π It’s a quandary! I need to get back to that regular life because my college son just walked in the door from having breakfast with a friend – thanks for the thought provoking post. I loved the railroad analogy!
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:35 am
That’s a great way to define this; a quandary. Online fellowship is real and has been used greatly, but you’re right. It’s tough to show people the rough spots… a matter of the heart I suppose. One day it would be great to actually meet all the people that we’ve met online. I’ve met a few and it is really invigorating and soul lifting to do so. Thanks, Barb. I’ll be pondering this quandary!
SimplyDarlene
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 7:48 am
Share heavily
and tred
gently,
aye?
BTW, your first line is quite a good hook!
(Thanks for stopping by my place the other day.)
Blessings.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:38 am
That sounds like some very wise advice, Darlene. It was my pleasure to find out a little about your world. I like it, and thanks for stopping by and sharing your wisdom. Much appreciated!
Jason Stasyszen
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 8:08 am
It’s funny, when I was a kid I would watch “Reading Rainbow” sometimes and one of the books they covered was “Meanwhile Back at the Ranch” and it was a funny one about the husband going into town to do errands (the “exciting” thing) but meanwhile back at the ranch, there were all these exciting things happening like the wife winning the big sweepstakes. I’ve used the phrase many times myself. π To your point, it is interesting to bare your soul in these contexts. Sometimes it’s welcomed and other times it seems to be more of a thud. That shouldn’t keep us from being more transparent, but rejection issues certainly come into play. It’s much easier to share a witty analogy or great Bible story! That said, I’ve had some wonderful times where writing about something going on in my life has helped me tremendously in processing and healing. He really does work all things to our good. Thought-provoking post, Floyd. Thank you.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:42 am
You raise an excellent point, Jason. The processing and healing aspect of sharing as we put words together. It is a supernatural gift from our Father to be sure. I’ve benefited in the same ways as you. I’ve also benefited greatly by sharing in the lives of others and having genuine concern for them. Being invested in others isn’t always easy, but it’s always gratifying to the soul. I think that’s the way God designed us. Great call. Thanks, Jason. Hope all is well back at your ranch… sounds more fitting in Oklahoma than it would have in Alaska!
Betty Draper
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 11:46 am
I realize how much my blogging friends are a part of my life when I share something one of you wrote to my non blogging friends. God speaks through you and encourages me to share my heart. My face to face friends have told me I am a little to real…and to some I know they think I am a Jesus addict. You few that I follow get it…now back to cleaning day at the ranch. Great post brother.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:47 pm
I completely appreciate your being “real” and sharing warmly from your wisdom gained. That is a gift that is more valuable than silver or gold! My heart breaks for the ones that don’t “get it.” Boy… back at the ranch isn’t all it’s cracked up to be is it, Betty?! Thanks for sharing your heart of gold, sister!
Michael Holmes
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 1:48 pm
My purpose is to BE someone’s hero….I think that’s why God is sometimes so harsh in dealing with me. Not “harsh” in a bad way…but in a way that get’s rid of immaturity and infancy.
This is a great post!
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:49 pm
That’s such a great truth! God made us in His image to be the strength in this life from Him that others can see in our lives, and I hear you on the high standards He holds us to. Hard sometimes, but worth His honor and ours in the long run. Excellent point, Mike! And I can stand to lose some immaturity and infancy! Thanks for adding this perspective. Good stuff.
tcavey
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 1:53 pm
I use that phrase sometimes!
It’s been suggested to me more than once that I should write a non-fiction. My automatic response is that I’m not an expert in anything and not famous enough to have people jump at reading a memoir. However, I do have a testimony (all Christians do) and I’ve been praying about if I should publish that. Just in the thought process but your post sparks some more interest in my mind.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:52 pm
Lets see… TC uses that phrase sometimes… Hello! You think I didn’t already know that without asking? Somehow I’ve figured out if it’s in my noggin, it’s in your too!!!
Well I know for sure after reading your last manuscript that you have the gift of writing that hits like a sledgehammer. I’d like to hear your ideas. Sounds like a path is clearing in front of you, TC. That’s inspiring! Thanks. Let me know if you want to run it by me.
Hutch
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 2:59 pm
Sharing our “back-stories” can be very freeing. Especially when there is a story that you feel embarrassed about or fear that someone (or lots of someones) will judge you, but you find that some of those stories are just confirmation that you’re not the only one that’s gone through it.
Thanks for letting me share.
-Blessings.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:55 pm
I know for sure that you are one of the examples for all of us to follow in this category, Hutch. You inspired me last week with your new look site and perspective. You’re right. As Solomon said, “Nothing new under the sun.” What we’re dealing with or have dealt with someone else is or will as well. Our job is to share wisdom from God to honor Him and lift up His chosen and the ones He’s calling. Thanks for following your heart and passion, Hutch.
Dolly@Soulstops
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 3:13 pm
Hi Floyd,
Sharing our back stories builds greater understanding, and it shows where God has taken us from…I always enjoy hearing someone’s back story…Thanks for sharing a little bit about how you have experienced being the hero and the damsel in distress- that made me chuckle π Of course, in God’s kingdom, we have all had to be rescued from satan’s kingdom of darkness into God’s kingdom of light
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:59 pm
Glad to give you a chuckle, Dolly! Just because men aren’t screaming doesn’t mean they aren’t scared. The enemy uses fear to beat us into submission in our flesh. We all have back stories that we can use to encourage or share to be encouraged. I’m not the best communicator, but God has brought me light years from where I was. Thanks, Dolly.
Dolly@Soulstops
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 3:14 pm
P.S. Thank you π
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 6:00 pm
I just dawned on me that they need one of the yellow circle faces to laughing his head off! You’re welcome and thanks for stopping by, Dolly. It’s always much appreciated.
Chuck Allen
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:41 pm
That’s a great reminder about everybody having things going on “back at the ranch.” At times I get so wrapped up in my little world that I don’t slow down to listen to those stories. Christ didn’t have that problem; he always took time for individuals.
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 6:05 pm
Great point, Chuck. We get wrapped up in trivial things that amount to our fear that is usually unwarranted in hindsight… Thanks for taking the time to check in on what’s happening in my neighborhood ranch, brother!
Hazel I Moon
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 5:45 pm
Thank you for sharing this post at “Tell Me a Story.”
http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Floyd
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 6:07 pm
Thanks for letting me share it over at your “ranch”, Hazel!
Lisa notes
Monday, August 26, 2013 @ 6:37 pm
Yes, we all have those back stories. Some get told; some stay undercover. I’m usually most encouraged by a person who reveals more of their real life stories back at the ranch. It’s a good goal for all of us to work on our transparency. Thanks for YOUR transparency, Floyd, both in your posts and in your comments.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 1:33 pm
Well said, Lisa. I think the transparency brings boldness to all of us, if done with the right heart. Thanks for your honesty as well, Lisa… Hope all is well back at your ranch, sister.
Jillie
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 8:31 am
I remember when my son was little, we used to watch a PBS show hosted by Levar Burton, called Reading Rainbow. There was this one particular story featured, which we saw in re-runs several times. HOYT AXTON provided the voice reading the story…which was about this crazy ranch owner and his wife. He goes into town for the day, for supplies, and subsequently runs into a great time of BOREDOM in the routine of it all. His wife remains “back at the ranch”. The book went into all that was NOT happening with the husband, and then…”Meanwhile, back at the ranch” all these crazy occurrences were taking place with the wife. It was so funny the way Mr. Axton read the story. Now, whenever I hear this phrase, I hear it in Hoyt Axton’s voice.
I agree, Floyd, that sharing more of our “Meanwhile, back at the ranch” details does help others to pray more effectively for us and we for them. Sometimes I worry though, that I’ve given too much away in the details. And yet, why shouldn’t we be real and authentic about where we are in life? We “should” have no fear when confiding in fellow Christians, requesting prayer, but I think many of us have, unfortunately, been burned one too many times.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 1:49 pm
Yup. That’s exactly right, Jillie. We’ve all been burned one too many times and it makes it hard to reveal the things we’ve been taught since childhood to hide. It’s really crazy knowing that each of us have weaknesses, different ones, but the same issues that follow us like our shadows across our lives. I appreciate the things you’ve shared and the honor of getting to pray and be concerned in spirit for you and others as well. That is the heart of what our Father is trying to expand in us, but the enemy speaks lies and uses the actions of insecure and plum mean people to sew up the mouths of us who should be proclaiming all truths. I’m guilty as anyone, but I’m trying.
I love Hoyt Axton. When I hear his name there’s a song that automatically pops into my head. I’m not sure the name of it, but I think the chorus is, “If that cat could talk what tales he’d tell about Della and the Dealer and the Dog as well, but that cat was cool and he never said a mumblin’ word.” His voice was so distinct. Great… Now that song is gonna be stuck in my head all day! Maybe even tomorrow! Thanks for always sharing your heart and wisdom… and Hoyt Axton, Jillie! You’re a blessing!
Bernard
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 9:40 am
Enjoyed the post,Floyd. You hit the nail on the head when you said we all have conflicts. When I am dealing with conflict I like to let a few prayer warriors know. I have learned we don’t have to go through conflict on our own. God has placed people in our lives who we can share some of the details of struggle who can intercede on our behalf.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 1:54 pm
Absolutely right, Bernard! Good for you! I too have some people that I call on to pray. Conflict is part of life and no one is immune, but as you know and preach, it’s a gift in the long run. If you need another person interceding, count me in, brother. I’d be honored. Thanks, Bernard. If you don’t mind, I’ll add you to my list.
Bernard
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 7:17 pm
Floyd,
I will be honored to have you in my corner interceding on my behalf. I will reciprocate.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 8:01 pm
You got a deal, Bernard. Thank you.
Jennifer Dougan
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 12:09 pm
Floyd,
I can hear this phrase too, but my version of it is from a Super heroes version, “Meanwhile back at the Hall of Justice.” π Can’t remember if that is quite right. Similar theme too. π
Have a great day,
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 1:56 pm
Oh yeah, that’s the same theme. We all have our back stories “at the ranch.” Hope your’s are all good, Jennifer. Thanks for sharing the cartoon version of this! I love cartoons… still…
Betty Jo
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 2:24 pm
Floyd I was here the first day you posted this awesome piece but I’m just making it back due to “stories” going on in my own life. I’m sure they will find their way to my blog, as back stories, when they aren’t still too fresh and current to speak of publicly. I have to use discretion because of others involved. But, I’m sure at some point the Lord will give me exactly what and how to share.
Oh gosh yes; it’s His truth that sets us free. Sometimes I think we share either too much, or don’t practice the restraint of the Spirit, in the telling of our stores. Asking Father what to share, then waiting for Him to direct us, is the best way. His perspective is always the wisest.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 6:07 pm
I’m looking forward to not only your stories, but also the lessons and wisdom that go along with them. That’s great advice to wait on the Holy Spirit… I suspect that’s one of the biggest weaknesses for most of us. I’m praying for you and the back stories, Betty Jo. Thanks for the wise counsel and encouraging words, you always bring a ray of Son Light, sister.
David
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 2:28 pm
A few days ago, before your post, I started a poem and as I read your words today I thought it might be apt to include part of it in my comment. I think it kind of fits with your subject.
Here’s an excerpt. I preface the excerpt with the old adage you mentioned, it’s not part of the actual poem.
“Meanwhile, back at the ranch …. ”
We put on our happy face
As our world crumbles all over the place
Rest assured when you ask me
Iβll say Iβm okay
But itβs only a half-truth
Iβm not being real today
Pride whispers in our ear
They need not know
The cause of your hidden tear ….
The poem is about it being easier to hide and keep to ourselves, than to be honest and confess things that might be ailing our hearts. Your final paragraph kind of became the launch pad for my comment.
It’s funny where your posts send me sometimes, Floyd. If my comment doesn’t fit too well and seems to come in “out-of-left-field”, I apologize.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 6:15 pm
Are you kidding me, David? That poem and your comment make this site a sight better, brother! I’m honored to get to be this close to your heart pouring out the truth that this post points to. We wear masks. We’re taught how to put them on to hide the insecurity, worry, doubt, and fear, that only rot us on the inside when we conceal them. That poem is awesome!!! How often have we all been in those shoes… desperately in need of someone to see behind our facade and embrace the person behind it. In the end we’re all the same on the inside; in need of a Savior and His miraculous gift of redemption.
I can’t thank you enough for sharing your heart, David. That’s the kind of heart that shows courage to be real and brings courage to the rest of your family in Christ… No left field, brother! Right over the left field fence! Home run!!!! Thank you, David.
Mike
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 3:46 pm
It seems there has been so much turmoil and conflict in my past that when things go smoothly I start getting nervous. π Of course I know God always has our back, and leaning on Him makes the trials a little less painful. What I have also realized is when I’ve been tied to the tracks the tying was usually done by my own hand. Fortunately God has always come to the rescue.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 27, 2013 @ 6:19 pm
Good call, Mike! You’re right, we are the ones that bind ourselves to the railroad tracks! We worry and twist and squirm under the conflict as if we’re facing sure death, yet as you stated, we’re rescued by the hand of our Father every time… After so many troubles we become veterans, looking for when and where the next shoe is gonna drop. I’m guilty of it for sure. The world can’t rob our joy even if we are tied to the railroad tracks! We know how this story ends! Thanks, Mike. Always great to hear from you. Sometimes I wonder if you’re not inside my head!
Dan Black
Wednesday, August 28, 2013 @ 9:09 pm
Powerful statement: “May we be the heroes in the stories that matter more than the ones on New York Times best seller list.” AMEN!!! My wife and myself where looking through Facebook the other day at some of the youth that we served/helped when we where both youth leaders in Oregon, almost all of them are adults who are getting married and in a career. It’s amazing to look back now and see the positive impact we have had on their life (Even if it was in a small way). Great post!
Floyd
Thursday, August 29, 2013 @ 6:44 am
That is so cool, Dan! To be a part of God’s plan to bring honor and guidance to others is a blessing that surpasses the material things of this world. Good for you, brother. You’re writing the story of greatness and honor that points to the One we serve. Thanks for sharing that, Dan.