Shepherds

After the birth of the King of all Kings the appearance of angels visiting shepherds is an interesting twist. They are out in the country tending sheep. Suddenly the starry sky is filled with beings telling them not to be afraid, something wonderful has happened! I’m sure they wondered why these celestial visitors came to them, lowly agricultural workers. They were instructed to go to Bethlehem and see this child who has been born. One of my Pastors, Scott Greene of WCC, threw in one of his rabbit trail thoughts recently in a message, “What did the shepherds do after the Angels gave them the news? They didn’t go to a local department store and buy gifts for one another! They went to see Jesus!” Christmas is a time for giving but if we don’t take time for Jesus...it really can be hollow and empty. The Shepherds, unlikely recipients of unbelievable news, headed to see the babe in the manger. Joseph and Mary must have been pretty surprised when they showed up with their flock! But Luke tells us, “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” (Luke 2:17-18) Christmas can be a stressful and lonely time for many. Part of the reason may be that we focus too much on gifts, gatherings and galas. This Christmas focus on The Gift, Jesus Christ, and like those herdsmen of yore share the Good News of His love, grace and mercy to your neighbors, friends and strangers. Go shopping, attend events and serve with a better attitude everyone will appreciate. Merry Christmas!

Plastic Jesus

I stopped at Central Park to take a break and look at the Nativity Scene. Joseph, Mary and Jesus made of plastic with lights inside glowing at night. It reminds those who pass of the real “Reason For The Season.” I wonder if there are times when people look at followers of Jesus (I’m including myself) and see us being synthetic. The world is starved for that which is real and don’t need factitious religious folks. Many years ago William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army, was asked about a new translation of the Bible and whether Christians should be reading it instead of the King James Version. Booth’s answer was very insightful, “"I want to see a new translation of the Bible into the hearts and conduct of living men and women." He was alluding to verses like Colossians 3:16 that says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” The figures in that Nativity scene are clean, serene and lifeless. Not like the young couple who travelled far and delivered a child in a smelly stable surrounded by livestock. Jesus, the Word of God, put on skin and lived in this messy world showing us The Way. His followers are not called to be statues but living witnesses who reach out in this chaotic world with His love and mercy. Christ should be “translated” into our daily actions as our lives are gifts to “Others” sharing the Good News of Christmas throughout the year!

Trusting God

Watching the 24 hour news cycle can be rather daunting at times. The competition drives the reporters to sensationalize current events. I am not diminishing that there is pain and suffering in our world today. We should never grow callous to the cries of others. One reporter was talking about the issues of our day and saying that this is one of the darkest moments in our history. I almost laughed out loud. Yes, we are divided and I pray we can find unity to solve our problems but we are blessed in so many ways. Take one hundred years ago. The “war to end all wars” had concluded with over 116 thousand killed and more than 200,000 wounded Americans. The numbers for other nations were staggering. During the war the worst flu pandemic in the history broke out. Over 500 million were infected worldwide and estimates of 50 to 100 million died, primarily healthy younger adults. Walking through Oakwood Cemetery one day I noticed in the older section many markers with 1918 or 1919 as the death year, many infants and young. Imagine the fear gripping Kosciusko County in those days! During World War I, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed on May 11, 1918: “‘It being the duty peculiarly incumbent in a time of war humbly and devoutly to acknowledge our dependence on Almighty God and to implore His aid and protection...I, Woodrow Wilson...proclaim...a Day of Public Humiliation, Prayer and Fasting, and do exhort my fellow-citizens...to pray Almighty God that He may forgive our sins.” Though public assembly was discouraged a few months later to reduce infection, calls for prayer to Almighty God spread across the globe. At the end of the pandemic 3-5 % of the world’s population had died. Today is not the darkest moment in our history. The murkiness of our day is that as a Nation we continue to push God out of our public life. A century ago the United States heeded the Word of God, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me." - Psalm 50:15. In these days it would behoove us to look to the God we proclaim we trust and ask Him to forgive us of our sins. Live not knowing what the future holds, but always seeking and thanking the One who holds the future.

Joy Comes In The Morning

There is a “club” that exists in Kosciusko County and everywhere. It doesn’t have regular meetings because many times its members hide in pain. They stay in the shadows and don’t talk about their loved one who is far away from them and God. Alcohol, drugs, pornography to name a few prey on their weaknesses. Their loved ones watch as they spiral into the abyss of despair and destruction. Hope seems to go out the window. Relationships are destroyed by neglect and abuse. I am a member of this lonely hearts society. I wake in the middle of the night at times calling out their name to my Heavenly Father. Why don’t they change? Why like a dog do they continue to return to the vomit their sin draws them to? Why? It seems at times when we pray the sky is built of brass and our prayers bounce off of its surface not getting to Heaven. Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” In the story of the Prodigal Son I sense that the Father often went out and looked down the lane to see if his wayward son was coming home. One day a creature wearing rags and smelling like pigs humbly walked toward him. He ran toward him not caring about the stench or asking about the mistakes he had made. Only hugs and tears were given. That father had hope, though there were many sleepless nights. He had patience though many times afflicted with doubt. Prayers were lifted above and they went past the brass. They always do. Please be encouraged that God hears our cries. He can lead us through the worst of affliction. Even when your loved one is down, they are never out because God sends messages and help their way through you and others. Keep loving and do not give up hope because Jesus can reach and heal the darkest soul through His love and mercy. Find someone to share your burden with and don’t tough it out alone. Hold on...joy comes in the morning...

War To End All Wars

It was called the “war to end all wars”. 100 years ago this week World War I was coming to an end. Finally on the “11th month, 11th day and 11th hour” of 1918 the Armistice was signed and celebrations erupted that peace finally had come. But that war was really the foreshadowing of the horror of the 20th Century. According to Matthew White’s estimate in “Worldwide Statistics of Casualties, Massacres, Disasters and Atrocities” it is estimated that a total of about 123 million people worldwide died in all the wars of the 20th Century. Imperialism, Nazism, Communism, Socialism to name a few made that hundred years the bloodiest in history. Western Democracy bore the brunt of turning back these ideologies that threatened life, liberty and goodwill to all mankind. I am old enough to remember some of the Doughboys who fought “over there”. Two I recall were gentle souls who had been to hell and back. One Veteran who lived around the corner from us had been gassed in the trenches. He shook like he had Parkinson’s Disease and struggled to take care of himself. The other was homeless and suffered from what we would now call PTSD. Our church set up a room for him in the basement and he lived there as the “custodian”. Our parents communicated to us that if these men needed anything we were to help without question. Later they were taken care of at the Iowa Veterans Home until they died. Once in a message our Pastor read Matthew 24:6, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” I looked over at the “custodian” and he had his head bowed with tears moistening his eyes. He understood that the war he fought in was not the last as America at that time was calling its young people to Vietnam and thousands had died in World War II and Korea. As a follower of Christ we hope for that day when He returns and there is an end to conflict and bloodshed. Until then we owe a great debt of gratitude to Americans who serve in our Armed Forces around the world because war is not going away until Jesus returns. This Sunday, November 11th is Veterans Day. Please take a moment of silence to remember the sacrifice that has been given for Liberty over these 10 decades. At 11 AM the bell in the Kosciusko County Courthouse dome will be rung 21 times to remember. If there are other bells we encourage them to be rung too. Let us pray for peace and renew our trust in the God who has preserved us all these years. To those who currently serve in our Armed Forces and to our Veterans, both living and who have received their promotion to eternity...thank you...

Pastor Appreciation

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. For those of us who attend a church we can sometimes take this person for granted. According to Lifeway Ministries about 250 leave the ministry every month. Around 50 churches close each week in America. The stress of ministry can take its toll on spouses, family and the Shepherd inwardly as well. One survey asked, “What do you struggle with most in ministry?” The answer, “Loneliness.” But they do amazing things serving their flocks and others in the name of Jesus. John B. Lowe II is the Pastor of New Life Church and World Outreach in Warsaw. A dynamo for God, the church he and his wife Debbie have led will celebrate 35 years this Sunday! I thought it would be interesting to ask someone with this much experience, “What are four things your desire from those who attend your church?” He responded with the following. “1. Encounter Jesus in a tangible way. 2. Accept the challenge of not letting anyone out love you. 3. Experience consistent transformation. 4. Give their life away to the world they live in.” To appreciate Pastors the best thing we can do is to put into practice the truths the Lord places on their hearts as they share the Word with us weekly. They don’t want us to focus on them but on Jesus, and love this World as we grow in His grace and mercy. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 says, “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.” Pray for and support your Pastor. There is a spiritual battle going on all around us and many times they are the casualties. Take a moment to thank them and their family this month. To Pastors John and Debbie and many others in Kosciusko County who selflessly serve, “well done, faithful servants!”

WCC Anniversary

I had given up on Christianity. I just didn’t think it worked for me any more. I had to leave full time ministry in 1990 from The Salvation Army because my marriage was falling apart. I tried to salvage that relationship but went through a divorce. Suddenly I was a single dad taking care of three children. I tried to keep things together on the outside but inwardly I was crushed. It felt like a scarlet letter “D” always hung above me. I contemplated suicide. My family Physician, Dr. Matt Datzman, came to my aid with counseling and care but I really believed God had given up on me. Certainly I was a failure in His eyes. In 1994 a good friend of mine was totally mistreated by a congregation which for me was the final straw. I quit going to church. But loneliness gnawed at my soul. I was working at Cardinal Center at the time and Cookie Wilson talked about this new church her husband Denny and some others had formed at Harrison School. For some reason I felt compelled to visit even though I dreaded seeing this Pastor I admired from afar, sure he would define me by failure as well. I headed to Harrison one Sunday in October and walked into the gym, cartoon characters on the wall, and canvas on the floor with metal chairs. I was used to pews and a more traditional setting. Worship was accompanied by guitar and words were up on a screen, no hymnals. I tried to hide in the back so I could escape. The songs ended and Denny stepped up to the microphone. He just stood there with this forlorn look on his face. Finally he explained how he had been struggling and then said, “I can’t do this anymore.” The silence gripped the room. Suddenly, person after person began lining up and taking turns wrapping their arms around Denny and Cookie who had come up front. I was shocked. I wanted to run out of the building but with tears running down my face I got in line. When I got up to Denny I put my arms around him and wept. I stammered, “I can’t do it anymore either.” We cried together, Cookie and others joining us. That day was the beginning of healing for many. Psalm 51:17 says, “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” God loves the broken hearted. I learned that day and continue to be reminded that I am desperately in need of His grace, mercy and leading. Denny was willing to be honest with a simple five word message. We used to sing a song by Micah Stampley that “brokenness is what I need and long for” and then sang in the chorus, “So, take my heart and mold it, Take my mind, transform it, Take my will, conform it, To Yours, to Yours, oh, Lord” I humbly look back and thank God for my wife, Sina (Denny performed the ceremony) my family and restoring me back to ministry in The Salvation Army and the community. This Sunday, October 14th, 10 AM at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center in Winona Lake, Warsaw Community Church will observe its 25th Anniversary. A celebration of Jesus, the wounded but worthy Savior, who compels his broken but redeemed followers to live His love in this lost and sin sick World.

Two Were Thrown

Two were thrown in the dust of the American stage on Thursday, September 27th. People gathered with stones in their hands, ready to support their side and destroy the other. Kavanaugh and Ford were laid bare before the world, alone to defend themselves. The hurt and pain seen in both of their eyes. Their families and friends devastated. Teeth sharpened for power, not truth. I wonder what Jesus would have done if He walked into the room? I think He would stoop down and begin writing in the grime that floated down from the stink of indignation and accusation. Maybe he would write over 60 million babies killed since 1973? How about women and children treated like meat, only objects for a sex crazed pornographic society? How about the injustice of false witness against your neighbor? How about the lust for power and money instead of servant hearts? These are just a few of the sins of America. Time for everyone to drop our rocks and humble ourselves before the mighty hand and holiness of the Creator. America's only Hope is a moral people who stand for truth, rule of law and care for the downtrodden. God be merciful to me and my fellow Americans, our sin is a stench in His nostrils. One thing I do know, my Lord Jesus would go to both sprawled on the floor of this arena and help them get up. He would tell them how much He loved them and to move on in His grace. He would look around at the crowd and viewers from afar looking and listening for falling stones. May we "Appeal To Heaven" asking God to show us the way in humility before judgement comes. Let us pray for another Great Awakening in these United States!

Celebration Of Life

I was told many times that you should never reveal a lady’s age. But I’m going to break that rule because I watched Mary Louise Lowe rise before the crowd at the MOCC in Winona Lake on Monday, September 17th to confer an award named after her to a deserving couple. The throng rose in a standing ovation for her before that presentation. A fitting tribute to a wonderful woman 93 years young. (Yes, I broke the rule. Please forgive me Mary Louise!) I sat there with a piece of paper in front of me and started jotting down some statistics and thoughts. The Roe vs. Wade decision was in 1973. Mary Louise has been fighting for life and the rights of the unborn for just under 45 years when a Right to Life group was formed in Kosciusko County. It was also noted that over 60 million children have been aborted in America since that date. That’s 1.33 million on average per year. Only God knows how many children have been saved in our area because of her and others who have carried this banner for almost a half century. The speaker for the Right to Life of North Central Indiana Banquet, Retired Lt. General, Jerry Boykin, ended his gripping talk with this question about abortion, inspired by his wife whose mother chose not to terminate her in 1957 and his leadership in the United States Army. He asked everyone, “Have I done everything within my power to save the lives of the unborn?” Boykin, in his plain speaking way said, “Abortion is murder, period.” A nation that does not protect life is moving toward an appointment at the judgement bar of God, the Creator who has given us Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Life is the key issue of our day from womb to the tomb. Thank God there are folks like Mary Louise who have graciously borne this torch of truth along with many others. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” As we follow Christ seeking justice for the unborn, may we show forgiveness, mercy and humility because of our own sins. Thanks Mary Louise for your example (and Jerry, wow I just called a 3 Star General by his first name!) for your perseverance!
There are bright signs that folks are becoming more pro-life...let us pray and work for that day when abortions are rare in this land of liberty...His truth is marching on...

Abuse In The Church

Recent reports of sexual abuse occurring in the church have risen to the surface. Children have been abused and targeted by priests, pastors and leaders. High profile men in houses of worship have used their power to be sexually inappropriate with women. They are without excuse as their sin puts children and women in horrible situations. Victims have carried pain and suffering for years because of this corruption. Churches and religious organizations must be held to a higher standard to prevent this wrongdoing. Taking the letters of the word “Abuse” the following should be followed to prevent future indiscretions. A - Accountability: Pastors, priests and leaders are human. There must be a system of accountability in the church or organization that maintains a watchful eye by a board that is not “hand picked.” B - Believing the Victim: People are innocent until proven guilty but the church must change its practice and listen to someone who reports. There are situations where the person has been asked to leave instead of confronting the perpetrator. U - Unreported: Any suspicion of a minor being abused must be documented and reported to civil authorities, period. Many of these instances have been brushed under the rug to protect the church from any damage. Adults taken advantage of by leadership should be granted a grievance process of their claims. S - Sexual Purity: There is no excuse for a leader of a congregation or organization to take advantage sexually of a child or adult under any circumstance. Individuals should have background checks done before they work with children and never allow one on one contact. E - Environment of Safety: The church or religious organization should be a place of safety where the Spirit of God resides. If a group can’t provide security then close your doors. You are a danger to people and a detriment to the Kingdom of God. In this sexually charged society where porn is one click away and morality continues to slip on shifting sands the church is being called out. Our Heavenly Father is calling us to holiness and appropriate sexual contact. The church should be a haven where people struggling with the “stuff of life” may come and find mercy, healing and forgiveness in the name of Jesus. I hope as His follower’s our hearts break over the silence, cover-up and abuse of power we hear about each day. 1 Peter 4:17 (NIV) says, “For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household” Light is exposing darkness, sadly in cathedrals and chapels all around. The World is watching to see if we really live what we believe...God help us...

Gus Sideris

Where do you begin to describe someone like “Gus” Sideris? He recently was called home by his Lord and Savior on August 4th and leaves a big gap in our community. Gus was a fixture at Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church and spent time listening, helping and praying with those who are hurting. He led many Bible studies and pointed people to Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life. He always greeted someone with a story, a smile and brought joy into any situation. There were times when I was down and I would have some reason to go to WEPC just to see him. There was something infectious about him. I would kiddingly say it was because he was Greek and he would just laugh. The reality is that he had the comfort of the Holy Spirit that came from deep within. In reading his obituary he had many accomplishments. He served his nation in the U.S. Navy when called. He volunteered on many occasions and was a successful businessman. But his most important accomplishment is that he loved. There is a great celebration in Heaven right now! Thanks, Gus, for being a great example of a follower of Jesus. “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Marshalltown Strong

The last column that I wrote appeared in the Times Union on July 19th. It’s ironic because on that day an EF3 tornado went through the center of my hometown, Marshalltown, Iowa causing massive destruction. I had just been in Marshalltown for a reunion at the church I grew up in. The storm took the roof off of that structure and it will have to be demolished. We moved my mother out of the home I grew up in three years ago but that neighborhood looked like a war zone. Thankfully no one was killed as the storm tore trees, houses, buildings and the cupola off the Courthouse. I left as soon as possible to join the relief efforts of The Salvation Army in the area. Recently it was reported that 40% of downtown will have to be demolished and almost 100 homes were lost, mostly in the poorest part of town where I grew up on 4th and Bromley. I was working 10 to 12 hour days and then visiting my Mother at the Iowa Veteran’s Home which was not damaged by the storm. The Lord decided in the middle of this mess to call her home. One day when I got a break to see her I apologized for not being there more. She looked me straight in the eye and said, “Go to work!” She was the last of the Greatest Generation in my family growing up during the Great Depression and then working at Marshalltown Manufacturing during World War II - a “Rosie the Riveter” She didn’t get to see how people came together to help their neighbors in a time of crisis but it would not have been a surprise. That’s what you do when you are Hawkeyes and Americans. People volunteered with chain saws, gloves and helping hands. It will take a long time for recovery in "M’Town" but their spirit is strong, many of those values instilled in us by people like my parents. John 3:8 says “So don’t be so surprised when I tell you that you have to be ‘born from above’—out of this world, so to speak. You know well enough how the wind blows this way and that. You hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or where it’s headed next. That’s the way it is with everyone ‘born from above’ by the wind of God, the Spirit of God.” We spent time hearing stories, wiping tears and praying with people who were affected by the storm. It was an opportunity to share that even in the storms of life there is a God who cares. I stood at the cemetery with my family as we said farewell to our progenitor being committed to the rich soil of Iowa. I looked over the landscape seeing the damaged Courthouse in the distance. We don’t know which way the wind blows, so how can we plan tomorrow? But the wind of the Spirit of God can see us through any storm of life during our temporary stay on this sphere. More importantly, if we ask for forgiveness and place our trust in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection that spirit will carry us in peace to eternity.
Thanks to everyone for their financial support. words of encouragement and prayers!

Foundation

This past weekend I headed out to Marshalltown, Iowa for a reunion with folks who attended the church I grew up in. Five years ago we were saddened when it was closed, something happening to many congregations across the land. I tell people that I had a drug problem when I was growing up. My parents drug me to church every time the doors were open. Bethany United Methodist Church (an EUB congregation before that) was never large in number but great in heart. It was a community that was an extended family showing me four important components of a foundation for life. First was always that the Bible can be trusted as the Word of God. It was preached and taught with passion by pastors and lay people alike. Secondly that group was our “community center” as we learned to love one another striving to serve others. Third was the challenge to live holy lives and “don’t let the world squeeze you into its mold.” And finally that Jesus is the Way, The Truth and the Life. I had a Sunday School Teacher and Youth Leader, Barb Elliott, who had a great impact on me. She could play the guitar and had a beautiful voice that sang from a love deep in her heart. One time she “made” me sing “I’d Rather Have Jesus” with her. I did my best making a joyful noise against her talent. But when we got to the end the silence was pierced with a question, “Do you mean it?” I reluctantly said “yes” but as a teenager there were many things competing for Lordship in my life. That question haunted and reminded me of poor choices I was making in High School. I would live one way on Sunday and another the rest of the week. I was invited to a meeting at The Salvation Army where the Major said, “someone needs to get serious about Jesus.” Barb’s words came back once again. I went forward to the altar and answered her question. “Yes, I’d rather have Jesus.” Those foundations I learned in my youth have carried me through life. On the corner of Bethany, now a Hispanic congregation, is a stone engraved with these words, “Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:20) In this crazy mixed up world we all need the foundation of the Word, Community, Holiness and yes, Jesus. More than anything this World affords today.

Obey Jesus

While driving through town there is a sign that catches my attention. In the middle of a red heart on a white background are the words “Obey Jesus”. It almost seems strange in this day and age when everything is focused on love. God does love us. We can’t earn our way to Heaven because the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross paid our debt in full for our sins. (It took me awhile to figure this out.) But God is more than love, He is Holy. The Christian walk is a process of repentance and sanctification, moving away from our disobedient nature to become like Him. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says, “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” We are called to be yielding to Jesus out of love for that which He has done for us. Our challenge is to not live as the world with all of its crazy ideas but conform to the law that our Savior said He came to fulfill, to live Holy lives. It is not following a list of do’s and don’t. It is obedient faith, not ruled by our feelings but the truth of God’s Word. We used to have this lady when I was young during prayer meetings who would say, “Oh that people may see, the marks of Jesus in me.” I’ve learned it comes from that simple message on that sign, “Obey Jesus.” Thanks to the neighbor for the reminder!

Scars Into Stars

STAR 88.3 is a Christian Radio Station in Fort Wayne that serves Kosciusko County on the dial at 90.9. Melissa Montana is the CEO/President/GM of this company that strives “To use media to offer hope that helps to change lives through the love of Jesus.” She recently shared at Warsaw Rotary about her life and the path she has taken in media. A successful business woman, she garnered support in the Fort Wayne area to purchase STAR 88.3/WLAB when it came up for sale a few years ago. It is an incredible success story sharing the Good News of Jesus through radio. When you first meet her you would think that she has it all together. I learned quickly into the presentation that she has had many rough patches along the way. At eight years old she was almost killed by a truck that hit her while crossing a street. Once a well known personality at a major radio station in Atlanta her husband’s work took them to “the Fort”. She struggled with the transition and fitting into a midwestern community and a smaller market. She then faced giving up on a “perfect marriage” and the reality of divorce when her husband walked away. One day the owners of 88.3 announced they were going to sell. Facing looking for new employment she sought God for wisdom and felt led to bring a team together to purchase STAR forming a new company. Melissa was quick to tell us that we should never be defined by our pain and failure. “See pain and setbacks as learning experiences. Pick yourself up, even if you are at the bottom and move ahead,” she shared. In 2 Corinthians 4 it says, “We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken.” (The Message) A person may be down but they are never out of God’s grace and mercy. Don’t let your failures and mistakes define you. God can turn your Scars into STARS...a promise from Him through Jesus for all of us!

Vietnam - Honor & Remember

On April 29th, 1975 my life changed. I was a Senior in High School at Marshalltown, Iowa and we anxiously listened to the news coming from Vietnam. My boyhood friend and fellow Eagle Scout from Troop 310, L/CPL Darwin L. Judge, was a Marine Security Guard who was killed during an attack on Tan Sun Nhut Air Base outside of Saigon early that morning. Next to him was CPL Charles McMahon from Woburn, Massachusetts. They were the last two killed in action in that long war. As I was preparing to graduate and take on the world I was taught that liberty comes with a price. When I heard the news I was working at Randall’s Grocery and went to the back of the store and cried like I never had before. We had a Memorial Service at the High School Gym that May but their bodies were not returned to their families until early in 1976. I was unable to attend the service and burial because I had enlisted in the U.S. Army but over the years I spent time with his parents, Henry and Ida. They lost their other son, Loren, to complications from serving in Southeast Asia after the war. They never wavered in their love for this nation and we shed tears together to the day they were laid to rest next to Darwin overlooking the rolling land of the Hawkeye State.

As the Vietnam Wall visits Kosciusko County May 31st to June 3rd we remember the 58,220 Americans who paid for freedom with their lives. 1,606 are still Missing in Action. Their fathers, mothers, siblings, spouses, family, friends and comrades will come to spend time, shed tears and remember.

We also take time to honor our Vietnam Era Veterans. They served when citizens were mainly drafted, some bearing the scars of war. There were no parades. There was no PTSD. Some died from wounds of war, suicide and exposure to Agent Orange. Though their names are not engraved on the stark blackness we remember them and their loved ones as well and honor those who are still living.

Some Vietnam Veterans were treated with contempt like no other in our history. My friend Mike served in the Army 1st Infantry and came home, wearing civilian clothing. He was told not to mention his service to anyone. Thinking he was “safe” after landing in Des Moines, Iowa he took a cab to get to the bus station. The cab driver asked him where he had been and Mike told him Vietnam. Next thing he knew he was standing in the rain with his bags as the cab drove away. This was not an isolated situation as others were spat on or treated poorly by protesters whose right they had defended.

I get up each day and see an aging face looking back at me in the mirror and at times say, “You got many more days than Darwin.” Ronald Reagan noted in a speech on Veteran’s Day in 1985, “Most of them were boys when they died, and they gave up two lives — the one they were living and the one they would have lived. When they died, they gave up their chance to be husbands and fathers and grandfathers. They gave up their chance to be revered old men. They gave up everything for our country, for us. And all we can do is remember.”

History will long cuss and discuss the Vietnam War. Our Government is accountable for its decisions to send our young men and women into battle. But our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines should never be held in contempt for their service when our nation calls. Vietnam Veterans are the best America has to offer, a national treasure of duty, honor and country along with all Veterans in our history.

We need to Honor and Remember by challenging ourselves to live our lives mindful of their sacrifice and service. We should not squander their payment of blood, sweat and tears as we continue to strive to be what Lincoln called the last best hope of the earth. Daily we should thank God, the Author of Liberty, for the blessings we take for granted that others around the World dream of. But it comes with a price. The blackness of this monument reminds us of this cost.

When the children of Israel crossed the Jordan, Joshua had them place a marker of twelve stones to remind them of God’s power and leading into the promised land. He shared that one day someone would ask, “What do these stones mean?” The Bible then notes why the stones were placed, “He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.”

There are those who will visit this Wall who were born after the Vietnam War. They see aging Americans who wear hats noting their service. The Wall is a reminder that there was a time when Americans served in a costly, controversial war as their nation called. There are Americans responding to that call today. May all be reminded that we should always fear God in this Nation and that His powerful Hand sustained us in those difficult days and will do so today if we trust Him.

Lastly, when you view the Wall, see loved ones mourning or take an etching from a name never forget, “Freedom Isn’t Free”.

To our Vietnam Era Veterans, both living and now in eternity, “thank you”.

Heart Control

I have been watching with interest the “walking out” and protests recently due to school shootings. No one disagrees that one killing is one too many. But gun ownership is also a right guaranteed Americans in the Constitution. The problem is that the protesting is one faceted when there are many layers. When experts profile the people who are murdering others they tend to come from broken families, fatherlessness, bullying, isolation, playing violent video games and watching homicidal television and movies. There are many who are dealing with mental illness. All these areas need to be addressed and there are people who should be kept from guns. But in the protests there is an ongoing theme that shows up on the signs people are holding, “Thoughts and prayers are not enough.” Really? Our actions should begin with our thoughts and prayers looking to Heaven for answers. Murder is not in the weapon, killing comes from the heart. Jesus reminds us, “ For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.” Matthew 15:19. After the fall the first sin noted in the Bible was brother killing brother. Cain didn’t need a gun to kill his sibling, Abel. A lonely heart full of bitterness will find a way to murder. Our society seeks “freedom from religion” as a spirit of hopelessness arises and life is devalued. Systems of men including government can’t fill that void or control hearts. John Adams wrote in 1789, “We have no Government armed with Power capable of contending with human Passions unbridled by morality and Religion. Avarice, Ambition, Revenge or Galantry, would break the strongest Cords of our Constitution as a Whale goes through a Net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious People. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” I hope this is a time where our nation doesn’t just “walk out” May we “look up” as we seek God’s truth and pray for His direction in this land of liberty, especially on today, which is National Day of Prayer.

When Prayer Moved A Town To Unity

News spread around Warsaw, Indiana in April 1999 that the Klu Klux Klan (KKK) was going to have a rally at the Kosciusko County Courthouse on Saturday, May 8th. A few leaders gathered to discuss how the city should respond. The first action was to pray and encourage everyone to seek God’s wisdom and guidance. Out of that prayer meeting Randy Packer, President of the Greater Warsaw Ministerial Association (GWMA) along with Pastors John B Lowe II, Chad Burkhart and Joe Banks to name a few began calling around town to gather the community together for an event that eventually would be called “Cultures, Community and Christ”.

“CCC” was sponsored by the GWMA in cooperation with Grace College & Seminary, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, Warsaw Community School Corp. & Warsaw Community Development Corporation. It was held Friday, May 7th on the night before at Center Lake Park. Randy Packer noted that the celebration would, "make a positive statement about our cultural diversity and the reconciliation through Christ that makes that possible." During the gathering everyone was asked to stay away from the Klan Rally the next day as they closed in prayer, people holding hands and tears flowing in agreement.

The next morning Law Enforcement put barriers on the streets in a two block area around the Courthouse. The Klan members showed up to empty streets, closed businesses and a lonely Courthouse lawn as they got out of their bus. They stayed for a short time because they had few to listen to their rants of hatred. Peaceful solidarity won on May 8, 1999 in Warsaw, Indiana.

Pastor John B Lowe II recently reflected on that time, “Kosciusko County and Warsaw were bathed in prayer and the Holy Spirit touched people’s hearts allowing unity to shine. Liberties were exercised, without conflict, due to prayer and a plan of following peace. People have their right of free speech but also have the right to ignore bigotry. We need prayer every day to ask Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to come and shine in Kosciusko County, our Nation and the World.”

On Thursday, May 3rd at Noon, everyone is encouraged to come to the Winona Heritage Room in Winona Lake as we observe National Day of Prayer. Even if you can’t make it to that event take time to pray. This year’s theme is “Unity”, something that is in short supply today.

Christian Unity

On April 29, 1968 after the urging of Majors Howard and Pearl Palomaki of The Salvation Army of Warsaw a meeting was held to organize a Women’s Auxiliary. The goal was to bring women of all backgrounds and faith together to support the mission of serving “others” in Kosciusko County. E. Mazie Alexander was the County Recorder at the time and Palomaki approached her with the idea. “Oh, I can’t do that!” she replied after his pitch. “Oh, yes you can,” he countered. Mazie answered, “I will think about it and pray for guidance.” The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary began as Alexander urged Georgia Kaufman to be the first President and Ada Eagler helped with projects. They met in people’s homes until they got to 35 members and then began gathering at the Corps & Community Center. That first year they held a Bazaar at Glover’s Furniture and helped with the Toy Shop at Christmas. The now famous nut sale started in 1970 as thousands of dollars have been raised to meet human need in the name of Jesus. In preparing to celebrate 50 years it should be noted that this group models something desperately needed today. In all those sales, service and times of fellowship, religion, race, politics and other differences have been put aside for the common good. Unity of purpose under the banner of the love of Jesus can reach out and touch a dark and hurting world. Ephesians 4:3 says, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Mazie prayed for guidance and even after she and many other faithful women have been “promoted to glory” that little band of women keeps on. The Soup & Pie Luncheon on April 18th will be a Golden Jubilee of all that has been accomplished but also a celebration of UNITY. Something we so desperately need in our World today.

Good Friday

I always thought that “Good Friday” was an interesting concept.  
How could anything be good about a day over 2,000 years ago
when an innocent man was crucified on a cross?  Add to that as
Christians we believe that Jesus, the Son of God, was innocent
of the charges made against Him.  But he was scourged and then
nailed to a tree. Add to the misery what the suffering Savior said
as he looked down at the Roman Soldiers who impaled his hands
and feet, casting lots for his clothing.  “Father, forgive them, for they
do not know what they do.” Luke 23:34. My good friend
Pastor John B Lowe II of New Life Christian Church & World Outreach
has written a book, “Forgiveness...An Act of Violence.”  In Chapter 5
he responds to what Jesus said, “Really! They didn’t know what
they were doing? Reading verses like that challenge our logic.
Christ’s sufferings at the hands of the Kingdom of Darkness seemed
pretty intentional to a well reasoned mind.”  Good Friday is about
forgiveness, period. The greatest man to ever live was killed in the
most horrible way but his mission was to forgive, showing the heart
of His Father - God Almighty. This Friday is Good because it’s about
mercy. John B notes in Chapter 6 of his book, “God doesn’t forgive
us because He is superior, even though He is.  He forgives because
He is love.” With sweat and blood running in his eyes, Jesus strained
to see those who meant him harm and loved them. We can be forgiven
of our sins as well because the Lamb of God shed his blood on the cross.
God sent his best, His only Son, to tell us that He loves us. Good News!
As we accept forgiveness we are challenged to forgive those around us
as well.  Make this season a Good Friday through Jesus and the ultimate
message of love...

For more information on “Forgiveness...An Act Of Violence”
go to www.ihavenewlife.com

Ken Locke

GWMA

www.gwma.info

Billy Graham & Prayer

This is the inaugural column focusing on faith and the church community in Kosciusko County.  

There is a rich history of Churches and Christian impact here locally and ministries that have

gone around the world from Kosciusko County.  Many recall the days when a young

Billy Graham preached in Winona Lake for Youth for Christ in the 1940’s.

Dr. Graham served as the first Director of YFC.  But at 3 AM on July 13, 1949 an all-night

prayer meeting was held with 40 to 50 young men in attendance, many of them who

impacted the world through ministries such as World Vision, Ken Anderson Films and others.  

Even during a busy YFC schedule that week they took time in the Rainbow Room at

Westminster Hotel to pray for Billy and his team as they prepared to head to Los Angeles

for revival meetings. The rest is history as that moment was a pivotal point of the

beginning of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.  On February 21st Billy Graham

stepped into eternity after 99 years on this third rock from the sun and now with Jesus,

the one he pointed to through 60 years of ministry.  It is estimated that he spoke to over

215 million people in over 185 countries with the Good News. Billy once said, “"Have you

ever said, 'Well, all we can do now is pray?' ...When we come to the end of ourselves,

we come to the beginning of God.”  That night many years ago God began using a

young man from a dairy farm in North Carolina to share His message of grace and mercy.

Prayer is where we should all begin no matter the situation as we seek God for His guidance

and direction.  It may not take you around the world but it will take your heart to a beginning with God.

“Pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Have ideas for this column?  Send them to gwmainfo@gmail.com

www.gwma.info

Face Time

Let's face it.  Things have really changed the last few years.  Life is now concentrated on a little device that people don't seem to be able to get away from.  There have been other changes culturally and morally.  It is a challenge to keep our Hearts tuned to Jesus.  Fasting in the 21st Century might include "unplugging" from social media and our phones.  In this World of constant information the need is greater for "quiet time".  Lord, help me to always have "face time" with you...