Well, I have a big weekend planned. I will leave this afternoon heading to Branson with my sweet wife. Tomorrow, we will celebrate 21 years of marriage. We are going to spend the night in Branson and then go the the big Bass Pro Shop on Friday. (My pulse is racing as I type) I'm sure I'll be able to find a satisfactory gift for myself there. I can hardly believe that I have been married for 21 years. God has richly blessed me with an awesome wife. I love her with all my heart and pray the Lord will give us many more years together. Edie, one life-time is not enough to spend with you! I love you!!

Once we get back home early Friday evening, things begin happening quickly. We will have kids in our home for a Disciple Now weekend. Kristen is the leader/teacher (that freaks me out a bit). I will get up very early to catch a 6:00 am flight to Tennessee where I will be preaching twice at East Rogersville Baptist Church. On Sunday Evening, I'll be preaching an ordination service for my good friend Kenny Bailey. I will land in Knoxville around 11:10 where I will be picked up by Kenny and another friend, Larry Porter. Larry is the best bass fisherman I know and makes a living as a guide. Anyway, they are picking me up in the truck and boat and we will be having fellowship on the lake. (Again, my pulse is racing). It will be an awesome weekend,

I have to take a short break. I am preparing my sermon for Sunday night as I continue my series on the cross/crucifixion/resurrection. At this moment, I am overcome with emotions thinking of Calvary. I have been studying the cross from the standpoint of the Father. I can't imagine the anguish of sending my son, my only son, to be tortured and die. Honestly, I couldn't do it. Just the thought brings me to tears. I am overcome with thanksgiving that God the Father did it. He did it for me. It shows the lengths God is willing to go to have a relationship with me. Thank you Father, for sending your heart, your Son to die for my sins.

First, I want to update on Edie's health. Last, Thursday I spent my birthday at the doctor's office with Edie. They check her for flu and sure enough she tested positive. She has been a very sick girl for the past few days, but is finally turning the corner. She made it to church last night (against my advice)after missing Wednesday night and Sunday morning. I must admit, it was great to preach with her sitting in her spot. Thank the Lord she is getting better. Her back is holding its own.

Secondly, I will update on my mom and house. My mom is here and seems to love the apartment we built upstairs. She has it decorated and it really looks good. On the other hand, we still have a garage full of stuff. We try to knock out a few boxes each night. Our house is great and it is so nice to have a home again. Thank the Lord for his provision.

Kristen has begun asking for and receiving money for her mission trip this summer to Wales. I am very proud of her. God has really been doing a work in her life. It is getting close to the time for me to let her go. (tears in eyes) I don't want to, but I must let her go to take the gospel to the nations.

Josh is six feet tall. Ridiculous!!! I spend most of my time buying shoes and britches. I now have to keep him away from my shoes. Our youth ministry is sowing great seeds in his life and I am beginning to see the seeds sprouting.

I have set the dates for my trip back to El Salvador. The dates are August 25-30. I haven't nailed down all the details, but they will be forthcoming.

Things are picking up for my evangelistic ministry. I will be in Tennessee, Arkansas (week long revival), and Tacoma, Washington over the next 3 months. Continue to pray as the Lord opens more and more doors for me.

Next week I will be in Florida playing in a golf tournament. It is tough duty, but when the Lord calls you must answer, "Here am I, send me"!

Hopefully, I'll have another post before the week is over. Maybe even something spiritual this time.