I would appreciate a simple sentence prayer for an eye surgery I have Friday at 10:00 AM. My aim is to be back up and running over the weekend . . . and blogging again by Monday! Thanks for your prayer support – even if it’s just a short whisper.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Ken Reich. I always knew that Ken was an awesome guy. But when I began to get to know him, I knew I had found a soul-mate. I remember feeling so fortunate that this guy was going to let me be friends with him! And so it just happened. We shared heartaches, dreams, failures, and values. We truly came to love each other. I know he cares about me and loves me unconditionally. And he would do anything for me. And he knows I feel the same about him. Ken is the kindest, most friendly, most real person I know. You always know what you’re going to get with him – he is the same most all of the time. He really and truly loves Jesus, and lives that out on an everyday basis. He is so talented. He is so concerned about those around him. He is so passionate about the things of God and His Kingdom. But . . . did I mention . . . laughing??? Let me tell you, never in the history of the world have two guys EVER laughed so much or so hard. I couldn’t begin to tell you all the stories and situations that have literally brought tears to my eyes in pure, unadulterated laughter! I can be doing something, and something that Ken has said or done will pop into my mind, and I will burst out in laughter, no matter where I am. When I simply think about Ken, a smile comes to my face because it reminds me of something funny. We even have our own language! Ken, just know that I thank God for you – my life has been so much more meaningful . . . and FUN . . . because of you! MOANHEAD!

Today’s Christian Song: He Covers Me by Steve Camp

Today’s Quote: “Every morning – my ritual before rising: I sit on the edge of my bed and pray, ‘Jesus, today I will love you more and know you better.’” Rick Warren

Today’s Thanks: Jesus, my salvation! Grace, a free gift that has been given me that I have not earned, nor can I repay. It blows my mind when I think of the depth of love that God the Father has for me, to offer me eternal life together with all its blessings, in spite of all my sin and shortcomings, through His Son Jesus Christ. Thank you Jesus, for looking all the way down through the years and seeing little ol’ me, in such a helpless situation – and being willing to give up your holy, sinless, perfect life, so that I could spend eternity with you. What other response can I have, other than “I give you my whole life.”!

Today’s Verse:
7 But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:7-14.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Bob Taylor. One day in the 8th grade, I was standing in the cafeteria line. This tall man was talking to someone in line, and spoke to me. He started talking to me, and I had no idea who he was. He told me he was the band director and wanted to know if I was interested in playing in the band. That was the furthest thing from my mind. I had 4 years of piano in Columbus, and I wasn’t very good, so I was relieved when we moved to Amory and there was nobody to teach me piano. So, I’m sure I just blew it off. But he told me to come to the band hall during lunch one day and we would try out some instruments. The day I went, I told him I wanted to play drums (because I figured that was cool and of course I had no idea about any of the other instruments). He had me peck a few times, and then proceeded to put a baritone in my hands. For the rest of the semester, I took lessons from him during lunch. I tried and tried but I couldn’t get the tone we were looking for. One day I watched Phil Jones and tried to emulate him. Bingo! I was so happy the day I finally “broke through” and could create a nice sounding tone! Second semester I joined the band and had a blast. It wasn’t long till I was drum major and starring the high school band. He also taught me to play bass, which I talked about on Day 22. But in spite of all the teaching that Mr. Taylor did, it was his friendship and his life that has inspired me more than almost anyone I have ever met. I have never met anyone that is so outgoing and desiring to help people as Mr. Bob Taylor. What an incredible man he is! Most people only see the talent and the humor. But he is so deep in his understanding of God and his kingdom, and how we all fit into it. We might not agree on everything theologically, but that is ok! I can never repay Mr. Taylor for all the things he taught me, and for everything that he has done for me, which put me on the path that I am now on. Besides my parents, he influenced me more than any other person on earth. He is the most important person on this earth to me. His example of how to live and love is what has shaped my life. If I can live the way he has, and helped half as many people, and shone the way for a tenth as many people as Mr. Bob Taylor has, my life would be a huge success. I love you, Mr. Taylor, and when I grow up, I want to be just like you!

Today’s Song: Stop Loving You by Toto. My favorite group. So musical! Perfect bass line; perfect vocals; brilliant songwriting. I love the way the song is put together. Genius drums. Genius guitars. Incredible lick on the bridge. Wow – I will never get over this song. Pop perfection.

Today’s Christian Song: Love That Will Not Let Me Go by Steve Camp. This song was sung by Andy Sharpe at our wedding. Beautiful melody and beautiful message! And forever linked to my most special day.

Today’s Quote: “There’s a choice you have to make in everything you do. Keep in mind that in the end, the choice makes you.” John Wooden

Today’s Thanks: Angie. As I think about it, my whole world is wrapped up in her. She’s the reason I live in Pearl, MS. I do what I do and how I do it because she is in my life. I thank God that He held me and her for each other, because it is so evident that we are perfect for this marriage. I thank God that she is such a rock that my everyday life is based around. She loves God and is committed to living her life in a way that reflects his goodness. I tell her all the time that she is “the best mommy in the whole world” and I really believe that! I can’t imagine anyone being any better for these kids. She is really beautiful, talented, smart, outgoing, funny, and incredibly good at what she does. Of all the things I have to be concerned about on a daily basis, I don’t have to worry about our relationship. I know she loves me, and I know she loves our kids. And I know that she is going to do what’s best for me and for us in every situation. What would my life look like without her? Thank you God, for Angie. May I always continue to strive to be the husband that she deserves. I love you Sweetheart!

Today’s Verse: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Gary Maze. Maze is the most giving person I have ever known. I have seen him give till it hurt, to people from all walks of life on so many occasions. People have even lived in the house with them. He’s given cars, clothes, and yes, tons of cold hard cash. He always goes the extra mile to take care of someone. He genuinely cares about people. There’s never been a better “people person”. He has influenced the entire state of MS in youth ministry. He influenced the entire country through Harvest. He has led Horizon and Broadmoor through tireless energy and again, giving. He saw something in me that led him to pour his life into me and trust me with leadership within his ministries. He has raised two of the most incredible young people I have ever known to adulthood. There are only a few people that I can really say that I am honored to be friends with, and Gary is one of those. It makes me so proud to know that he considers me one of his closest friends and ministry partners. My life would look drastically different if I had not had him in my inner circle for the past 25 or so years. I love you Maze!

Today’s Christian Song: Just Like Me by Sweet Comfort Band

Today’s Quote: “You are never more like Jesus than when you are giving yourself away.” By Me!

Today’s Thanks: Momma. Words cannot express what I feel in my heart for my Momma. I will never know how much she has suffered. (Losing three husbands and her mother that she took care of will do that to you.) I will never know how much she sacrificed for me growing up. I will never know the love that she has for me, except to say that it must be close to the love I feel for her. She took care of me growing up, and provided me with the opportunity to do what basically whatever I wanted to do; therefore, I will take care of her as she ages, and provide her with every comfort that I possibly can. She has been the best mother that a son could ever want! I have never met anyone that cares about the people around her any more than she has over the course of her life. And I know that God will reward her for all the “cups of cold water” that she has given to people in His name over the past 86 years. Thank you Momma, from the bottom of my heart, for all that you have done for me. More than that, who you are to me – a perfect example of a Godly Christian lady and mother. And mostly, for the life that you have lived as a humble, caring, loving, helpful, gentle, fun, and God-fearing Saint. For all that I can’t find the words to say, and for all that I feel in my heart both now and forever, I LOVE YOU!

Today’s Verse: “And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” 2 Corinthians 5:15.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Beetle Bailey. I just can’t call him Jeff. When I was a young, green, scared little boy who was new to Amory in the 7th grade, I walked into Mrs. Clark’s Social Studies’ class and the first thing I saw was a dude sitting there in a Kansas City Chiefs sweater. I said, “Are you a Chiefs’ fan?? He said, “Naw, but I’m trying to get one thing from every NFL team.” Right then, I knew I had a friend! And what a friend he has been! We have been there for each other ever since. Some of my most vivid memories of high school are of us riding around in the Maroon Balloon or Beetle’s car, laughing, rocking and rolling, and talking about girls. So any time any of those three subjects come up, I immediately think about Beetle. The first concert I ever went to was with Beetle to see Boston in Memphis. Wow. The next day at school, we were so ashamed because we both wore the concert t-shirt and white pants! Drrrf! Later on, I had a small part in Beetle coming to know Christ, and then we really grew close by spending complete evenings in prayer at the Prayer Room at FBC Amory. While he still has a crazy side, I have seen him mature into a man of God. I am so thankful that Beetle and I have been great friends for all these many years! (BTW, today is HIS 50th birthday!)

Today’s Christian Song: Down In The Lowlands by Russ Taff

http://www.myspace.com/russtaff/music/songs/down-in-the-lowlands-lp-version-29917366

Today’s Quote: “The most important thing you think about . .. is what you think about . . . when you think about God.” Dave Busby.

Today’s Thanks: Jaron and Melody. What more can I say about the pride and joy of my life?!? My world here on earth is wrapped up in Angie and these two precious people. I want the very best for them. I want them to reach their potential spiritually and in every area. I want them to be the best they can be. And I want to be an intregal part of all of that. I love you with all my heart!

Today’s Verse: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Martin Bell – All told, I may have spent more time with Martin than any other person besides my mom and my wife! I first met Martin when he tried out for the Fishermen and that began a wild ride. Some of my best memories are of riding together in the van, and me calling out songs and Martin just launching right into them. I’ll never know how he can do that, but I guarantee you he can. He is the best rhythm guitar player I’ve ever known! I will always say that Martin’s “glue” was what held Immanuel together to make us what we could be. I don’t think I realized how much he meant to me until he got married and moved away. His influence will always be with me.

Today’s Christian Song: Winds of Change by Geoff Moore. April 7, 1989. I went to see Geoff in concert in Grenada, MS as they were releasing this album – Foundations. When I got home, I was awakened at 2:00 in the morning by a phone call saying that W had died in a trucking accident. The lyrics puts this song toward the top of my all time favorites. And my admiration for Geoff!

Today’s Quote: “Success is … knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds to benefit others.” Dr. John C. Maxwell

Today’s Thanks: David and his family. Although I didn’t know David very well growing up, I have come to love and respect him so much since we both have become adults. He has loved and treated Momma just like I have. He and Carol are so good for each other, and they have raised Cliff and Jennifer the right way. I am so thankful for each one of them!

Today’s Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declared the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.

STATE CHAMPIONS BABY!!! Jaron and his U14 soccer team from Pearl defeated Madison 1-0 to win the State Games State Championship. I am so proud of him, and so happy for him! It’s probably his last “rec” tournament, because he will be playing high school soccer from now on, and possibly some select.
Today is Father’s Day. I am so happy to be a daddy, and so proud of my kids. They are great, GREAT kids! I talked about them on Day 50. They are such a joy to me, even though we have our moments around here when it is not fun. I love seeing them grow up, and watching the “light bulb” go on about certain things. Jaron and I can now have deeper conversations about life and spiritual matters. Melody actually loves to talk to me, when the planets are aligned and she’s in the mood. I love seeing them do well in soccer and in dance. I love seeing them have great friends to hang out with. I love to laugh with them about something silly, or with the puppies. I don’t know what my life would be like at this point without them. I love my children, and pray that I can be the kind of daddy that they deserve.

That being said, I miss my daddy. Well, actually I have two! I never knew my biological daddy, so it’s kind of hard to say I miss him. I would love to know what my life would be like today and how it would have been different growing up, had he lived a full lifetime. It strikes my anew during this time that he never saw his 50th birthday. Wow – that is short. I can’t imagine. I think I am going to get involved at http://www.ancestory.com and see what I can find out about him, along with his side of the family.

But indeed I do miss my daddy that I did know. Joe Kendrick was literally a God-send into mine and Momma’s lives. I would have to think long and hard to find the words to describe my love for him. It blows my mind that when he got married for the first time at age 55, that he took me in, just like I was, with no questions asked. Looking back, I am 100% positive that he would’ve loved to have had days when I wasn’t around, so he could just enjoy my mom. But I guess I was so starved for a daddy that I just flooded him with my love and affection, and he had no other choice than to put up with my playfulness! Get this – he was a dairy farmer who basically didn’t have a life, and he then found himself going to BAND CONCERTS and football games, and church basketball games and taxiing me all around Monroe County, just because he and Momma wanted to keep up with me! He provided for me and her and sacrificed so much for what I’m sure he wanted at that age – which was probably peace and quiet. But then again, aside from the war, peace and quiet was all he had ever known, so I guess he was ready for a little activity! Anyway, all I know is that he loved me so much. I can hear him call me “Tater” so clearly even right now. It rings in my ear. That’s why I call Melody my “Tater”, so that it keeps that tradition going. Many times throughout most days, something reminds me of him, and the way he would do something or the way he would laugh about something or a story that he would come up with. I have nothing but incredible memories about “W”! It was the hardest thing Momma and I have ever been through, but while he was here it was definitely the best years my Mom and I ever had. I miss you W, and I can’t wait to see you on the other side, so we can sit and talk. And laugh. And love.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Johnny Buckner. My pastor in Starkville for the most impressionable period of my life spiritually. With out a doubt, Johnny is the Godliest man I have ever known, and it’s not even close. I say all the time, that he “ruined me for the ordinary”! His outlook on the Christian life, on ministry, on church leadership, and his world-view were and are instrumental in building my thoughts on all of these. I can’t find words to say how thankful I am for his influence in my life.

Today’s Christian Song: Praise The Lord by The Imperials.

Today’s Quote: “Don’t be the person who spends his entire life climbing the ladder of success, only to get to the top and find the ladder leaning against the wrong building.” By Me!

Today’s Thanks: Joseph Winslow Kendrick, Jr. See above.

Today’s Verse: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

As of today at 12:25 PM, Wow Week is officially over for another year! It is without a doubt the toughest week of the year. It is a test of endurance. It is better now than it used to be, with Bill being here to organize it and run it from the top, and Vera actually working with the crew to do all the little things that need to be done. We reach around 1200 kids with the Gospel of Jesus, so it is definitely worth it, but wow – it is such a hard time. When we keep our eyes in the right place, it makes it so worth it! So, needless to say, I’ve spent the rest of the day chillin’! haha

Jaron and Melody went with Angie to Meridian – it’s the last soccer tournament of Jaron’s “rec” career. They won both games, so he feels like they have a good chance of coming home State Champions. I sure hope so. It would be a great Father’s Day present!

Today’s Top 50 Person: David Landrum – he is such a great businessman, but I am blown away by his Godliness and ability to coach his team up in life lessons as well as business. David introduced me to concepts about life and about aiming for growth and excellence that I had never considered, and it literally changed my life! I am so thankful for his influence in my life, and even more for his friendship!

Today’s Christian Song: You Need A Reason by Sweet Comfort Band

Today’s Quote: “Assume Good Intentions.” Tate Cockrell put this into words one day in our staff meeting. Up until that time, I had never brought this concept into focus. But it has been one of the foundational applications of my entire life. In relationships and in situations, I always assume the best, and that therefore determines how I react. Especially between Angie and me, I never think that when she says something that she is trying to hurt me, and vice versa. I think for a large majority of people in our socio-economic class, we basically get out of life what we expect. I am not a victim. I choose to be happy and blessed, and I choose to allow the other person to act with the best of intentions.

Today’s Thanks: Mimi and Poppy. I can’t tell you how thankful I am for these two dear people that I actually get to call family! I love both of them so much, and I am so thankful that God brought them into my life. They are two of the most funny, most caring, most helpful people that I have ever known. And they knew how to raise their daughter!!!

Today’s Verse: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

Today’s Top 50 Person: Snuffy Smith. I just can’t call him Andy. And he just can’t beat me at ping pong. Or racquetball. Or anything. But I love him. Enough to totally humiliate him on Superstation TBS during a TV timeout at the State basketball game. Ahhh . . . the pure joy! But seriously, I love him and treasure the times we’ve spent together, and we have spent a lot!

Today’s Christian Song: Winds Of Change by Russ Taff – what a man, what a voice, and what a band! I was blessed to be able to get to know James Holihan and Jackie Street when they played basic tracks on the one album that our band, Immanuel, put out. For a while, I was known as “Russ.” But surely not because I sang like him!

Today’s Quote: “There is nothing worse than unrealized potential, especially in relation to how it affects eternity.” By Me!

Today’s Thanks: Love. There is nothing better than being loved unconditionally! Thank you to my God and my friends and family who love me in such a pure, total way.

Today’s Verse: “If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:6-8.