Category Archives: Minister’s Minute

Pastor’s writings that appeared in the Delta Optimist.

Happy Father’s Day

FathersDayThis Sunday, Father’s Day, is an important day in the lives of many. Everyone, like it or not, has a father. Some may have fond memories of their fathers, some may not. Some memories are distant and some are of step, foster or even grandfather-father figures.

My biological father was killed in a motorcycle accident when I was a year old. My mother later married my stepfather and he has always been known as Dad.

Now I would love to say my stepdad was the perfect dad. I would like to say that, but like all fathers, he made mistakes.

Despite his mistakes, there was never a doubt of how much he cared for my older brother and me, and when my two younger siblings came along, never once did he treat us as second-class children. Perfect or not, my dad showed me I was his son.

As a pastor and believer in Jesus Christ, I am reminded of God the Father’s love as well. The difference is God’s love is perfect.

He took a horrible and wretched sinner like myself and adopted me into His family. He washed my filthy sin in baptism, He clothed me in His righteousness and He forgives me when I, like a teenager, yell, back talk and defy Him. At times, He scolds me like a parent, but He continues to show me that I am His Son.

Happy Father’s Day, Dad.

Published in Delta Optimist June 14 2013

Photo Credit: disgustipado

Paying it Forward

PayitForward“Paying it forward” is a concept that has made some news in the last couple of years. What happens is someone will pay for your items, usually anonymously, and the hope is that you will “pay it forward” to someone else, although it is not necessary that you do.

I have often heard of this urban legend, but I have never once seen it done, much less have it happen to me. Until today that is.

I was at Starbucks, and after I ordered, I was told it was already taken care of. At first I thought it was the barista being nice, however, she let me know the young lady who was before me had paid for me.

I was speechless, and those who know me, know that is a very rare occurrence.

As I took my beverage, my mind still in shock, it made me smile, because in this day and age with so many “gifts” they seem to have a catch, this gift did not.

It also reminded me of the gift of forgiveness that was given to me by Jesus Christ, who died for my sins and three days later rose again. It was a gift that he gave, freely, He didn’t say if you do this then it is yours, He simply says, I do this for you.

I am thankful for my barista who reminded me of this most wonderful gift.

Published in Delta Optimist May 17 2013

Photo Credit: Harlow Heslop