There Goes Connie

GOD ASKS: WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?

06/28/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

A WOMAN IS CONFRONTED WITH HER SIN – Genesis 3:13

I am 100% certain that God wasn’t asking for Eve’s resume or her list of life accomplishments. Instead, God was directly confronting Eve’s very direct disobedience to His explicit instructions. In my sanctified imagination, God’s voice was booming in this case. Definitely not a still, small whisper.

This is actually the 4th question posed by God in Genesis 3. We talked about the first question last week — “Where are you?” God’s 2nd question was “Who told you that you were naked?” His 3rd was “Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?” And then the most pointed one of the 4, “What is this you have done?“

Adam passed the buck to Eve. Eve passed the buck to the serpent. But, in the end, she knew she was caught. She believed the serpent and disobeyed God. Now she’d have to suffer the consequences, and so would all of mankind after her. God’s words must have rumbled deep in her soul.

I am both grateful and deeply burdened by God’s ability to know my sin and call me on it without accepting any excuses. And, I don’t care if it appears that I’ve “gotten off lightly.” I KNOW there are consequences for every one of my sins.

When I lied to my parents.

When I had hateful thoughts toward another person.

When I wanted what someone else had.

When I was overly critical of someone else and not willing to acknowledge my own faults.

When I lashed out in anger.

When my motives weren’t pure.

When I was jealous.

When I was selfish.

When my impatience showed up in rash decisions or thoughtless words.

Every time. EVERY time. God caught up with me and said, “Connie, what have you done?” or “Connie, what are you doing?” And, most of the time, His words boomed — at least inside my head.

Caught red-handed. Photo used by permission of Wikimedia Commons

Believe me, my list of sins is MUCH longer than that, but those are between God and me.

I praise God for His promise to forgive me. ” If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 NKJV).

We sin. We’re sorry. We ask for forgiveness. God forgives us. But we still have to face the consequences. In Eve’s case, she and Adam were thrown out of the Garden of Eden and never allowed back in. Things were never perfect for them again.

God said the same words to Cain in Genesis 4:10, right after He asked him “Where is Abel your brother?” Cain answered with guilty indifference. “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?”

“WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?”

Look at the punishment God pronounced on Cain in chapter 4 verses 11-12. Sometimes the consequences we suffer are immediate. Other times they are drawn out over many years, even carrying over to the next generation.

Wouldn’t it be better if we heard God’s voice asking us this question BEFORE we gave in and committed the sin in the first place? He knows when we’re contemplating a sin and when we carry it out, and it always causes our relationship with Him to suffer.

I have some sins I need to confess this morning, this very minute, so my relationship with God can be right again. What about you?

Cleveland, Georgia: Babyland General and Clyde’s Table and Tavern

06/24/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

When you are visiting North Georgia, particularly the beautiful town of Helen, Georgia and White County, a great side trip is only a short drive away. You’ll find a gorgeous property and some mouthwatering smoked meat.

CABBAGE PATCH KIDS

Do you remember visiting Babyland General Hospital, Home of the Cabbage Patch Kids, 30-40 years ago when it was in a small location? That first address was actually the former Neal Clinic which was originally built in 1919, but in 1978, it became the home of the trademarked Cabbage Patch Kids.

Creator Xavier Roberts was born in Cleveland on Halloween in 1955. At the age of 21, he was an art student and became fascinated with the German technique of fabric sculpture. That process was joined with the quilting techniques passed down in the Appalachian Mountains. In 1977, Xavier created his Little People and started by dressing them in clothes he found at yard sales. He had a brilliant marketing idea of giving them names and having parents “adopt” them. By 1990, 65 million Cabbage Patch Kids had been adopted.

The phenomenal growth and popularity amazed everyone. In 2000, a Cabbage Patch Kids postage stamp was unveiled. Even famous painter, Andy Warhol produced a series with the Cabbage Patch Kids as subjects.

Construction for a new 70,000 square foot building on 96 acres started in 2007, and the doors officially opened on November 21, 2009. The number of acres grew to 650 along the way. The grounds are immaculate, and the interior gleams. Admission is free.

For children, grandchildren, or “kids at heart,” Babyland General Hospital is a delightful place to visit.

CLYDE’S TABLE AND TAVERN

Located on the square in the tiny town of Cleveland, you’ll probably smell the aromas before you see the building for Clyde’s Table and Tavern because many of the menu items are prepared in the smokers out back.

Owner Ward Gann’s hunting dog, Clyde, was the inspiration for the restaurant’s name and interior decor. When I was there in May, it had been open for 7 months and is already quite a hit. There is seating for 40 inside and 30 more on an outside deck. Plans are already in the works to expand the deck.

The 5-alarm wedge salad is highly recommended as are the deviled eggs and avocado fries. Yes, avocado fries. REALLY delicious.

I had the mac and cheese topped with brisket and wished so much for a way to take my leftovers home. It was awesome.

So, by all means, plan a a few hours for a meal at Clyde’s and a visit to Babyland when you’re in Helen, Georgia.

GOD ASKS: WHERE ARE YOU?

06/21/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

THE QUEEN OF QUESTIONS HAS THE TABLES TURNED AND NEEDS TO GIVE SOME ANSWERS

The name I’ve been bestowed by my children and husband is “Queen of Questions.” If you’ve spent much time with me, you can appreciate how this happened. I call it being curious, but you can imagine how my nature gets in the way of a teenager’s quest to spread his/her wings and fly . . . under the radar.

In my job as a travel writer and blogger, my tendency and ability to ask questions comes in very handy. After all, I’m constantly seeking information and interviewing. I always want to know just a little bit more.

Recently, while attending the Southern Christian Writers Conference, I heard keynote speaker Eva Marie Everson address the topic of “What Do You Hold In Your Hand?” She was talking about the power and potential that writers have with the “pens” we use, but her title was drawn from God’s question to Moses in Exodus 4:2 (NIV)- “Then the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?” “A staff,” he replied.” As we know, Moses ended up using that staff for many purposes during the wilderness journey, and it became a symbol of God’s power.

Ms. Everson’s speech stirred my curiosity to examine more of God’s questions in the Bible. Since God is omniscient, we know He wasn’t asking because He needed information. Why would GOD ask questions? It seems to me that God asked His questions for OUR benefit. We need to answer. We need to understand not just what is on the surface of the words He spoke but what is hidden in the layers underneath. God’s questions also reveal so much about Who He is, what His desires are, what His purposes for us are. God wants to direct us, teach us, have a relationship with us, watch us grow. Throughout the Bible, there are many times when He doesn’t stop and preach to us. Instead, He asks questions in order for us to dig out the answers for ourselves — knowing that that effort will ultimately yield better results.

So, for me, the tables are turned. I’m “in the hot seat,” so to speak. It’s time for ME to answer. This week I’ve been thinking about God’s question to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:9 and how that applies to me at this point in my life. Connie (insert your own name), where are you?

Searching for “The One” – Photo used by permission from Wikimedia Commons

I’ll share a few of my answers with you, but I strongly urge you to answer the question for yourself in these three categories:

Where am I physically?

Where am I emotionally?

Where am I spiritually?

Physically, I’m on Barkley Bridge Road in Hartselle, Alabama. After moving a number of times from 2002 until now, I am glad to be settled into the place I hope to be — “from here to Peck’s.” After going through a big health scare in early March, I am grateful to be in very good health. I could always improve physically by exercising more and making healthier food choices — both are constant challenges for me.

Emotionally, I love my husband, children and grandchildren and get tremendous emotional fulfillment from all of them. There are always issues regarding them in my prayers, but generally they are doing well, and they bring me great joy.

I’m feeling my age as it pertains to my place in the Grand Scheme of Things. I’ve had my 50-year class reunion. I’ll be 70 on my next birthday. Steve and I will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary in less than 2 years. We’re card-carrying Baby Boomers with Social Security and Medicare cards. We’re at “that” stage of life where we would logically be the next to die. Sometimes that weighs rather heavily.

It makes me sad to see many of my peers dying or in very bad health. I know that God knows the number of my days, and I guess I’m glad I don’t. But I do hope to have more good years — as long as they really are GOOD.

Spiritually. Ahh, now here’s the rub. I am a child of God, and I know that I will spend eternity with Him in heaven, but what about in the meantime? Steve and I are LOVING the new Life Group we are leading in church, and I am glad to have this blog as a vehicle for sharing spiritual insights God gives me. But, this is an area of my life where I always feel I can improve. More time in prayer. More time studying the Bible. More time serving others. I want to know Him deeply and to be in a strong relationship with Him.

“WHERE ARE YOU?” God asked Adam and Eve, and I believe He continues to ask us in order for us to stop and take stock of our lives.

A Birthday Getaway to Greenwood, Mississippi

06/17/2019 By: CCPearson6 Comments

While we were building our new house last year, I heard about Viking appliances made in Greenwood, Mississippi and the cooking school conducted by Viking representatives using their stoves, cooktops and equipment, etc. Further, I heard great things about the Alluvian Hotel directly across the street from the cooking school. I hatched a plan to ask for a stay at the Alluvian and a couples cooking class for my birthday this year, and my sweet Silver Fox agreed.

Greenwood, as it turns out, is also where the movie “The Help” was filmed in 2010. Viking actually hosts a cooking class based on dishes mentioned in “The Help” — particularly fried chicken and Minnie’s mysterious fudge pie. Those classes are extremely popular and are sold out months in advance.

“THAT’S AMORE” COOKING CLASS

Our particular class was called “That’s Amore” and was billed as a perfect date night. Our class of 12 divided into three teams of 4 each and spent 2 solid hours preparing an amazing meal of shrimp scampi with parmesan truffle bread, filet mignon with a porcini mushroom demi-glace, arancini (which are cheese-stuffed risotto balls rolled in a savory breading and fried (Oh mercy, they were good!) and individual raspberry tarts. The staff had prepared Caesar salads and a fabulous dressing ahead of time.

Gleaming kitchen at the Viking Cooking School

Getting started with our couples cooking class

Stirring the raspberry filling for dessert tarts

We measured, chopped, stirred, stuffed, rolled out dough, sauteed and baked under the careful direction of our teacher, Loren LeFlore — who obviously had a ton of experience.

Loren Leflore, our instructor for the cooking class

The ingredients provided were the highest quality imaginable, and the equipment was a dream to work with. We were ravenously hungry by the time we sat down to eat — even with a few sneaky tastes from time to time.

The smells coming from the kitchen as we worked were incredible. And the meal was everything we hoped it would be.

Ready to finally dig in and enjoy our dinner

You don’t just eat a meal. You enjoy a completely immersive, memorable occasion.

ALLUVIAN HOTEL

The Alluvian Hotel is surprisingly sleek and modern with a big city look and vibe, in spite of being situated in the small town of Greenwood. The name comes from the alluvial flood plain in the Mississippi Delta made up of soil drenched over time in minerals.

There are only 45 guest rooms and 5 suites, each decorated luxuriously.

Well-appointed guestroom at the Alluvian Hotel.

The breakfast served daily and included in the price is a full, hot buffet consisting of cheese grits, home fries, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, frittata, scrambled eggs, scones, bagels, biscuits, coffee and juice. Diners are treated to REAL china and silverware with soft jazz playing in the background. An elegant start to your day.

We had a wonderful time. Check out The Alluvian here and the Viking Cooking School here.

Christians, Are We MEAN?

06/14/2019 By: CCPearson8 Comments

Last weekend Steve and I attended the Southern Christian Writers Conference in Tuscaloosa. Yes, gasp, Tuscaloosa — Bryant-Denny Stadium glimpsed from the road, the Houndstooth Condominiums and a Paul W. Bryant street sign to boot. We were in enemy territory from a football rival sense, but we were among like-minded, similarly-motivated people inside First Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa.

We sat through meals, keynote speeches and breakout session with editors, publishers, authors, bloggers, representatives of The Alabama Baptist and lots of wannabes, from at least a dozen states, such as ourselves. We were there to learn, get fresh insights, a renewed motivation and a focused purpose.

During Saturday lunch, we purposely sat at the table where we knew Javacia Harris Bowser would be. By all means, check out her website: seejanewritebham.com. Javacia (pronounced “juh-VAY-see-uh”) is a sharp, attractive, highly-accomplished, Christian, African-American woman who lives in Birmingham. She has been recognized by several different organizations for her business savvy and ability to influence others. She led two different sessions on blogging. Steve attended one, and I attended the other. She gave us so much to think about regarding our writing, but she also gave us a lot to chew on regarding the impact of Christians in non-Christian settings.

Javacia got her master’s degree in journalism at University of California-Berkley. Over lunch, she was asked what it was like to live in California and be a Christian. Was it difficult? How did other people treat her, etc.? What she shared surprised us. She said that while she was in school at Berkley, she found a church where she could worship and make friends. She carried on her life the same way she had always done. She didn’t wear any signs on her forehead proclaiming she was a Christian. She merely treated people with kindness and respect, attempting to know who they were, what their concerns were, what they enjoyed and what motivated them. AFTER building a relationship, she would reveal that she was a Christian, and their initial reaction was shock. They couldn’t believe she was a Christian, because, to them, Christians were MEAN, and she was not.

Mean. Us? Could we possibly come across as narrow-minded, bigoted, self-righteous, judgmental, unforgiving, unable to hear another’s viewpoint? Us? Mean?

I’ve been pondering that. If those traits are how we’re perceived, then NO WONDER those outside the Christian faith have no interest in coming in and learning more. Where is our Christlikeness? Do we say words He would say, do deeds He would do, interact with people HE interacted with?

What if every Christian made it their goal to imitate the Savior?

Think about it.

In 1 Corinthians 11:1 the Apostle Paul says, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” That seems to sound pretty arrogant on Paul’s part, but I like the way Matthew Henry helps to unpack that verse. His understanding is: “Follow me as far as I follow Christ. Come up as close as you can to my example in those instances wherein I endeavour (Henry’s spelling) to copy after his pattern. Be my disciples, as far as I manifest myself to be a faithful minister and disciple of Christ, and no further. I would not have you be my disciples, but his.” I believe Henry is right in his interpretation.

Paul also wrote Ephesians 5:1-2 which the Living Bible paraphrases like this: “Follow God’s example in everything you do just as a much loved child imitates his father. ²Be full of love for others, following the example of Christ who loved you and gave himself to God as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, for Christ’s love for you was like sweet perfume to him.”

Love. Sacrifice. Sweet perfume.

Pretty much the opposite of mean.

A Fabulous Burger, a Gorgeous Shop and Some Surprising History in Clarksville, Tennessee

06/10/2019 By: CCPearson1 Comment

I didn’t expect to be so impressed with a burger and the vibe of a diner as I was with Johnny’s Big Burger near the campus of Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. (For a fun side note that will particularly appeal to junior-high-aged boys, the cheer for Austin Peay is . . . you guessed it “Let’s Go, Peay!” and I have the souvenir car tag to prove it).

JOHNNY’S BIG BURGER

Johnny’s has been serving Austin Peay students and townspeople alike since 1965. The burger meat is said to be triple-ground, making it some of the smoothest and most tender you will ever eat. The fries are just as remarkable, as are the thick shakes. But, many students declare they there were able to continue all-night study marathons thanks to a “bun and cream” from Johnny’s. Translation: a honey bun that has been grilled in butter and topped with vanilla ice cream. The sugar rush alone could add 20 points to a test score. 🙂

The prices were, and still are, student-friendly. You’ll be lucky to find a table or a seat at the counter when you get a chance to visit.

JOURNEY’S EYE STUDIO

Journey’s Eye Studio, owned and tastefully stocked by Jodie Isaacs, is one of the prettiest home decor and boutique stores I have visited in a long time. You’ll find every wall, nook and cranny filled with beautiful and unusual items that call out, “Take me home. Take me home.” I just needed more time. I’ll definitely save up and go back.

A view of the main showroom at Journey’s Eye Studio.

An interesting display of goods at Journey’s Eye Studio.

Fascinating ceiling inside Journey’s Eye Studio

FORT DEFIANCE CIVIL WAR PARK

I wondered why so many antebellum homes and buildings were still intact around Clarksville when so many other cities in the South were torched by Union troops. What I learned is that Clarksville was full of wealthy tobacco farmers who knew the fate Clarksville faced if they engaged in battle. By that time (1862) they had heard about the destruction in so many other places and knew the odds weren’t good. So, they persuaded the powers that be to surrender and allowed themselves, their homes and property to be used by Union troops during the remaining years of the war. You can learn many more fascinating details when you visit Fort Defiance Civil War Park.

CUSTOMS HOUSE MUSEUM

This building reflecting a number of architectural styles was built in 1898 and to this day is one of the most photographed buildings in Clarksville. In addition to a gift shop and an extensive model train exhibit, you’ll find first class displays paying tribute to the successful citizens of Clarksville and many significant happenings through the years.

Be sure to look for the large collection of Boehm porcelain pieces — one of the largest collections in the southeast, in fact — and take children or grandchildren to see the Bubble Cave. They’ll love it!

Wedding gowns on display at the Customs House Museum.

What are you waiting for? You’ll be glad you planned a visit to Clarksville.

FAMILY — Kinfolks and Kindred Spirits

06/07/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

Steve and I absolutely love times when ALL of our children, their spouses and the grandchildren can be in one place at the same time. We invariably retell the same stories that have made us laugh for decades, and we assume old familiar roles — one is the clown, one has the quick wit and unexpected zinger lines, one is sweet and compassionate, one waits to speak and then has the perfect words for the moment, and all of them enjoy “cracking on Mom.” (As I’ve told you before, my funeral will be a roast. You won’t want to miss it). 🙂

Matt and Julie — brother and sister — at Allie’s graduation.

Granddaddy hugs Allie after her high school graduation.

The grandkids, in LARGE part because of the years they’ve come to Cousins Camp, also take up where they’ve left off from their last time together with bonds, familiarity, inside jokes and connections. In other words, we “get” each other. Some of it, to be sure, can be attributed to shared DNA. But most, I believe, is because of time spent together and relationships that have ever-deepening layers. We are all very different, but we love each other and have a shared history.

Nathan celebrating his 13th birthday with cousin Sam looking on.

Oldest granddaughter Allie with her siblings and cousin Luke.

A few weeks ago, I spent several days in Clarksville, Tennessee. I met three ladies — Michelle, Cindy and Karyl — who felt like family members almost immediately. I got to spend an afternoon with one, two whole days with another and only about 30 minutes with the third, but we had a bond. Why? We were/are spiritual sisters. We share faith in Jesus, a love for His Word and for His church. We each try to live our lives in ways that would be pleasing to Him. Two are public relations and tourism representatives. They do an amazing job of showcasing the businesses and attractions of Clarksville to outsiders WHILE they maintain strong marriages and train their children. Their families aren’t perfect, but they trust in God to give them wisdom and guidance. The third lady owns a popular catfish restaurant. She took over when her parents decided it was time to step aside. She oversees 50 employees and hundreds of customers who frequent her place of business. Yet, she doesn’t use that as an excuse to miss church. She just goes to the early service on Sunday mornings. Her parents decided long ago that they would never serve alcohol in their restaurant and believe that God has blessed them as a result of that commitment. One is a Southern Baptist, as I am, but the other two are in different denominations. That’s not important. What IS important is that we share a “heart language.” We have the same foundation and the same motivation for living each day and doing what we do. Clarksville, Tennessee is a great town, but meeting those three women was THE highlight for me.

How blessed we are when we are members of a loving family (the Bible often calls it a “body”) full of blood relatives AND brothers and sisters in Christ!

“So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” – Romans 12:5

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15

Ephesians 2:19-22 – “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”

Galatians 6:10 — “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

Dinner and a Show in Downtown Clarksville, Tennessee

06/03/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

Avoid the heavy traffic and the high prices of Nashville by driving a short distance northwest to Clarksville, Tennessee. From North Alabama, get on I-840 West before you get to Franklin, for extra smooth sailing that will avoid ALL of the downtown Nashville craziness.

ROXY REGIONAL THEATRE

The Roxy Regional Theatre is the only professional theater within a 45-50 mile radius and offers performances 345 days a year. Check roxyregionaltheatre.org to see upcoming events. Ticket prices are generally $25 for adults and $15 for children with musicals costing $5 more per ticket. Performers are recruited from New York and Nashville in order to provide the highest possible quality. Ryan Bowie has been the Executive Director since 2016, and is bringing both energy and experience to this job. There are 153 seats in the Main Theatre, and sources tell me there’s not a single bad seat.

After 5:00 p.m. on week days and on weekends, parking is free on the street, in the lot beside the building and in two nearby garages. Be sure to notice the statue of Frank Sutton across the street. He became well-known through the Gomer Pyle sitcoms playing the role of “Sergeant Carter.”

You will want to plan lunch or dinner before a performance, since there are a number of great eating places within walking distance of the theater. Three that I recommend are: Roux Americajun (yes, you’ll think you’re in New Orleans when you read the menu), Edward’s Steakhouse (probably Clarksville’s most romantic restaurant), and Strawberry Alley Ale Works.

ROUX AMERICAJUN

Roux Americajun, 125 Franklin Street, lives up to its slogan: “New Orleans is just a bite away.” Boudin balls, crawfish bread, corn maque choux, and crawfish etouffee nachos stand out in the appetizer list with red beans and rice and seafood gumbo right behind. Po’ Boys, shrimp and grits, jambalaya, beignets and bread pudding continue the NOLA theme.

You’ll love the vintage look of the repurposed building.

Small portions from a Cajun sampler platter that I shared with a friend. Lots of NOLA flavor!

EDWARD’S STEAKHOUSE

Edward’s Steakhouse, 107 Franklin Street right across from the Roxy, has a similar look to Roux Americajun with its exposed brick walls and hardwood floors. Steaks may be the specialties at Edward’s, but there are a generous number of chicken, pork, lamb, seafood and pasta entree choices as well. And the appetizers range from raw oysters to fried green beans with just about everything you can name in between.

Edward’s looks unassuming on the outside but very cozy, attractive and inviting on the inside.

STRAWBERRY ALLEY ALE WORKS

Strawberry Alley Ale Works, at 103 Strawberry Alley, is just a few blocks away from the Roxy. Healthy options are noticeable on the menu, such as avocado toast, veggie burgers and power salads. But, they are alongside grilled salmon, jagerschnitzel, fried shrimp and chicken piccata. This place has a very interesting and varied menu.

For a special date night or a weekend getaway, there is much to see, do and taste in Clarksville, Tennessee.

When Churches and Pastors Don’t Act Like Jesus

05/31/2019 By: CCPearson2 Comments

I write this morning with a deep heavy sigh. If a church is the Bride of Christ, then why, please tell me why, do some churches bear no resemblance to the Savior?

I have a friend who is in a horrible situation. From her earliest days, she has attended church with unwavering faithfulness. She has followed the teachings about dress, behavior and “Thou shalt nots” strictly. She has sincerely believed that since she’s saved, she doesn’t sin — because that’s what her denomination teaches. She has scrimped and saved in order to attend Camp Meeting every summer. It was actually her family’s yearly vacation. From my perspective, hers has been a very restricted and legalistic life, but in her circle, she has epitomized the role of “a good church member.”

Several months ago, she confessed to her pastor that she was struggling with some issues. These were not overt sins, certainly nothing like adultery, abuse, lying, murder, theft or the like. Hers was a matter of the heart, of feelings. Something I can certainly relate to, can’t you? The kind of thing I find myself confessing and asking forgiveness for again and again.

Her pastor’s response was shocking. He told her that she needed to get out of the church, that she wasn’t welcome there, and worst of all, he told her that God was through with her. GOD WAS THROUGH WITH HER??? How could anyone who calls himself a pastor utter such words?? Suddenly, the whole focus of each day and week was stripped away from her. With that one pronouncement, she also lost all of her friends, because she had surrounded herself with the people who attend that church.

I have been both baffled, troubled and disgusted by this friend’s situation. It is so far removed from what Scripture reveals about the nature and character of Christ, of Who He is, of how He behaved, of how He treated others, of what He taught. What did He say about the ones who were dividing His clothes while He hung on the cross? “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34. What did He say to the woman caught in adultery? “Go and sin no more.” Read the whole amazing account in John 8:1-11.

Jesus taught us to forgive.

Jesus gave of Himself and was humble. Read Philippians 2:1-11 and James 4:6.

Jesus taught us to pray. He prayed FOR others, WITH others and ALONE. Read Matthew 19:13, Luke 9:28, Luke 5:16

Jesus was compassionate. Matthew 9:36 says He “was moved with compassion.”

Jesus was FULL of the fruit of the Spirit — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23.

It seems to me that being able to quote reams of Bible verses and being zealous for following church rules become meaningless acts, even harmful, if those acts are done with cruelty, a heavy-handedness and a demeanor that is the opposite of what Jesus exhibited.

Would you please pray with me for my friend? Would you please pray for her to be delivered from this bondage and to find forgiveness, light, love and freedom in Christ? I believe there is tremendous power in prayer and even MORE power in MORE prayer.

Thank you.

A Memorial Day Salute to Fort Campbell, KY

05/27/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

A few weeks ago, I spent several days exploring Clarksville, Tennessee, to learn what made that town “tick” and what gave it its unique flavor and vibe. To be sure, Fort Campbell, which lies right on the Kentucky/Tennessee border, is a huge influence on Clarksville. Technically, it may have a Kentucky address, but from what I learned, most of the 105,000 acres are actually in Tennessee, and any babies born in the base hospital are issued Tennessee birth certificates.

In terms of base population, Fort Campbell is the second largest in the U.S. with a population of almost 235,000. Fort Bragg is larger with 238,000. Fort Campbell has the largest airfield of any military installation in the U.S. and the largest commissary in the Continental U.S. The base has 3 elementary schools, 2 middle schools and 1 large high school. In fact, every service you might need can be found within the confines of the base property — swimming pools, theaters, a bowling alley, a daycare center, shopping mall, hotel, a veterinary hospital, post office, and even a remote campus of Austin Peay State University with some great programs targeting Army wives.

Fort Campbell is the home of the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault and its “Screaming Eagles.” It is also the base for the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

Construction on the base was started just a few weeks after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, and many men and women who were sent from Fort Campbell have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

One of the largest and most heartbreaking losses occurred on December 12, 1985. After a deployment to Egypt on a peacekeeping mission, 246 service members and 8 members of the air crew crashed in Gander, Newfoundland, as they were returning home to their families for Christmas. Homes that had been decorated with lights, holiday trees laden with wrapped packages, and expectant, excited husbands, wives, sons and daughters were instantly forced to endure the worst reality of military commitment.

Quilt with embroidered signatures of fallen soldiers.

I toured Fort Campbell with a bright, articulate veteran whose family has been connected to the base for a couple of generations. I observed the comings and goings of our nation’s brightest and best. They, and those on ALL of our U.S. military bases, deserve our highest support, admiration and respect. And to those who have lost a loved one in defense of our country, I say thank you from the depths of my heart.

P.S. Civilians are allowed on the base to visit the Don F. Pratt Military Museum by showing your driver’s license.

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