When I was attending church as a high school student, my dad would take me to Saturday morning prayer sessions with the men of the church. During those sessions I learned what to expect out of most of the faithful men attending. After a year or so, I could quote some of their prayers with them, define the general structure of others, have a general idea of other’s focus, but there were a couple that would always be new and…
Years ago when I attended my 25 year high school reunion, I was asked to offer the opening prayer. I think this came as a shock to a number of my classmates who had not seen me since graduation. While I had some bullet points written down on a note card, I talked to my Father the same way I normally do – very conversationally. During the evening one of my classmates, who was now a police detective, came over…
I first met Tracy when I was asked to speak to the college and professional Sunday School class. From stories she related to me, she said to herself “My husband will be like him.” What she saw that morning was a widower with three children who had a commitment to Christ. What she did not see was the preceding 18 years committed to the trappings of a self-indulgent world of excess. Once there was a more formal relationship and we…
A number of years ago, when my youngest daughter Gabrielle was born, I looked into the nursery and watched her as she slept. After admiring her for a time, I began to wonder how old she would be before she understood the benefits and limitations of being a “Coker”. I knew too that one day she would comprehend her position as the youngest of nine children – momma’s last baby. I realized then that her biggest struggle, as with her…
I don’t know about you, but when someone talks about someone famous I always associate something with that person. For example, when we think of Abraham we are reminded of his blind faith which was rewarded by God. With Benjamin Franklin it is his wit and diverse nature of interests, both admirable and edgy. Billy Graham, on the other hand is an image of God’s love to all people, everywhere and his willingness to go throughout the world to plead…
It is not unusual for me to get someplace a few minutes early. Remember, I was raised in a military family, so “hurry up and wait” was not an unheard of philosophy. I sat down and ordered some iced tea as I mentally prepared for what I would say and how I would express myself to this person. By the time the clock struck the hour, I had been over the scenario several times. I turned my attention to the…