My cousin flies helicopters. This past Memorial Day I enjoyed having a conversation with him at the annual family barbeque. He recently returned from a tour of duty in Iraq and is scheduled to return in December. Perhaps he thought my question a little strange when I asked, “Did you realize that you were flying over the very cradle of civilization?” He replied that he had been more focused on doing his duty and returning home to his family.

Iraq is intriguing because it is the area of ancient Babylon. The Garden of Eden was located there as well as the Tower of Babel.

A few days ago I was having a conversation with my grandson, Elijah. I made a comment that must have gotten his attention. I don’t remember what I said but Elijah asked, “Did you read that in the Bible, PaPa?

Elijah is just learning to read but he knows that what’s in the Bible is important. Sadly, many adults in America know how to read and have free access to the Holy Bible but have never read it and have no clue as to what’s in the Bible.

I sat in the courtroom on a wooden pew surrounded by rich wood paneled walls. As I looked toward the judge’s bench at the front of the courtroom, the bailiff commanded all to rise and announced the entrance of the Honorable Judge Slater, as court was called into session.

I felt admiration and respect for the judge as he was referred to as “your honor” when addressed. Did “his honor” have respect because of his title, family name, money, or social/class standing? Probably not. “His honor” had been a classmate of mine and, on occasion, we had even driven livestock into the showering of his grandfather’s sale barn. While being a man of good moral character, “his honor” was shown respect, even by his enemies, because he represented the law of the land.

I enjoy finding hidden treasure at garage sales. One man’s junk can be another man’s treasure. I especially delight in finding old classic books at low prices. Some may call me cheap, but I detest paying $20 -$30 for a book when I can find one I value for $2 - $4. I’ve been thrilled at the find of first edition books by Charles Dickens, a Moby Dick, a Ben Hur, books by Andrew Murray, or A Treasury of David by Spurgeon that was headed to the dump.

“RSVP”, the letter said. After 35 years, I wondered how many would be at my high school reunion. Already many of my former classmates have died or moved far away from our old hometown. Even though the scheduled date is not a convenient time for me, it would be interesting to go just to see whom I would recognize and remember. But I just couldn’t show up on a whim, I have to make a reservation.

Many wedding invitations include RSVP. One would be foolish and very disappointed if he simply showed up at an airline and expect to buy a ticket and immediately board an airplane.

Multitudes of American families have been fractured and forsaken. People are searching for roots, relationships, and a sense of family and fulfillment. Many have come to realize a need for community and connectedness. How can you have life-changing family ties?

Jesus Christ has given us the answer. “Upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). The church has gotten a bad rap by some people. Some of the accusations may be justified, but most people are unaware of the necessity and benefits of the church. The church is referred to as the “body of Christ”. Believers in Christ are called “living stones” who makeup the temple of God where His presence dwells. (I Peter 2:1-10)

The exhilaration of floating free from earth’s confines in a hot air balloon is almost indescribable. Equally rewarding to me has been serving on a ground crew and balloon chase team with my wife and friends. I look forward to the next BalloonFest.

Some people enjoy the excitement of chasing their dreams; others chase tornadoes, foxes, and some (though illegal and dangerous) chase fire engines. And some enjoy being on a balloon chase crew. But after the initial thrill of ascending in a hot air balloon, I’m content to serve on the ground crew and help others experience the joy of hot air ballooning.

Bird watching is an interesting hobby. I get excited when I observe an exotic, rare, or large bird. I am in good company – both David and Jesus were bird watchers. But I tend to ignore or take for granted the humble sparrow. A sparrow is perhaps the most ordinary, colorless, and numerous of all bird species. But these common unspectacular birds are hardy, adapt, and thrive in almost any locale and climate.

God takes special interest in the sparrow. Jesus taught us that our heavenly Father takes note of each sparrow that falls to the ground.

Millions of Americans will usher in the New Year with celebrations and wishes of a Happy New Year. But for many the New Year will become more than wishes soon forgotten – they will enter the year of new beginnings. In the Bible the number eight represents new beginnings. God delights in and is passionate about new beginnings. All earthly parties pale in comparison to the celebrations of joy in heaven when one “sinner” repents and enters a life of new beginnings. (Luke 15)

When Joseph and Mary took the Christ child to the temple to be circumcised on the 8th day according to the law, the elderly prophets were waiting there for the “consolation of Israel” – the coming Messiah. (Luke 2:21-38)

There was a popular jingle that helped sell millions of packs of chewing gum. The commercial told us that we could double our pleasure by chewing “Double Mint Gum”. God gives us commands in His Word that brings double the blessings. If you want to double your pleasure, “Give respect and honor to whom it is due” (Romans 13:7). To some of God’s servants we are to give DOUBLE HONOR! Paul instructed, “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” (I Timothy 5:17). Paul said “double honor”, in other words – twice the honor you’d give someone in a place of secular authority. In the context, it includes the way we financially honor ministers.

I recently had an interesting conversation with my friend Doug. Doug says that he is a Christian but doesn’t attend church because he has “issues”. Since becoming a believer in Christ attending church has become a highlight of my week. Sometime ago I jotted down “7 reasons why you need to attend church” by Dr. John McArthur. Allow me to briefly expand on these seven reasons.