The Ballestero Blog

I Wouldn’t Miss It For The World!

We’ve all been invited to a lot of family celebrations, parties and church events. In our vast catalogue of responses when being put on the spot, we’ve all given the host or hostess  great assurance with our off-handed reply. We say, “I wouldn’t miss it for the world!”

• We have said that about birthday parties and anniversaries.
• We have said it about school presentations and graduations.
• We have said it about retirement parties and family reunions.
• We have used that line when invited to a special church service.
• We have used that line most of our adult life.

It’s just a common response to a myriad of invitations. You might call the statement overused or hyperbole, and normally you would be right, but not this time. This time it’s for real!

This time I’m talking a Heaven. Isn’t Heaven what I’ve have lived my whole life for? Isn’t Heaven the goal and the conclusion of my Christian walk?

Why then would I miss it for the World? What does the World have to offer that surpasses what Heaven has? Why would I throw away Heaven, for the World? Does anyone really believe that trading Heaven for the World is a good deal?

I cannot remember not loving Jesus. I have no memory of not wanting to see Him and be in Heaven. I want to see Him now more than ever.

The saints of God believe that when we get to Heaven, we shall know one another. I do too.

1 Cor 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

Since the recent passing of my sainted Mother, my thoughts have once again turned Heavenward. She joins my godly Father, and my beloved sister, Beverly Anne in Heaven. They are now part of that ‘great cloud of witnesses’ that awaits our arrival. I rejoice over the fact that my parents and my sister lived glorious and Spirit-filled lives. I can’t wait to see them too!

• All these years, I’ve sung songs about Heaven!
• All these years, I’ve thought about Heaven!
• All these years, I’ve preached about Heaven!
• All these years, I’ve dreamed about Heaven!

I Wouldn’t Miss It For The World!

My Mother planned her own funeral service. She even helped design and put together her Memorial Brochure. I know that sounds macabre, but she did.

Quite a few years ago years ago, something was said, during one of my visits, about dying. I brought up the uncomfortable point that as an evangelist, I would no-doubt be preaching somewhere far away when she died. We both knew, that there may not be a lot of time to put together a nice Memorial keepsake she would like for others to remember her by. I suggested maybe we could put together a draft, so there wouldn’t be a lot of work to do later.

I said, “Mom, what picture would you like on the front of your Memorial Brochure? She looked with me through hundred of pictures and finally chose the one she liked. Then we started with planning the ceremony. When we finished, Mom read it and smiled.

The brochure that will be passed out at the funeral, is the one my Mother read first.

How Do You Say Good-Bye?

Good-byes are not always easy to say. As a small boy, my grandson Huntley Ballestero struggled with saying good-bye to those he loved. Especially when my wife and I were leaving after visiting his home, he would hide when the good-byes were being said and the hugs got passed around. He didn’t like saying good-bye.

I tearfully remember my Alzheimer’s afflicted Daddy standing on the porch of his house in Fontana, California. Even with Mom’s prompting, he struggled to wave good-bye to me as I sat in my rental car ready to head back to the airport.

In a weak sounding voice he haltingly said, “I’ll see… you… in the… rapture.” With tears drenching my face, I vowed to him that I would see him in the rapture!

No final good-bye is easy! Words don’t seem to be able to say it all.

Sometimes, death comes to our loved ones so quick there is not time to say good-bye.

Other times, the good-byes become stretched out for several days or even a couple of weeks.

And then there are the good-byes that unfold in slow motion. They go on unendingly. We stand by and watch as their body slowly succumbs to the ravages of disease. We are helpless to fix it for them and we grieve that we can’t make them better.

Our hearts ache when we see the one we love, admire, trust and enjoy, fight so hard to live. It’s as if their body can’t keep pace with their will.

Such Has Been The Good-Bye To Our Beloved Michigan District Superintendent, Bro. Joseph Carpenter.

The first time I heard the name, Joseph Carpenter, was in 1964. My wife-to-be informed me she was going to be a Bridesmaid in her cousin Victoria Jordan and Joe Carpenter’s wedding.

When my wife and I married in 1965, some 5 months after their wedding, she asked Victoria Jordan Carpenter to be in our wedding.

The first revival my wife and I preached after getting married was for Bro. Victor Jordan in Jackson, Michigan. Bro. Joseph Carpenter assisted his father-in-law, Bro. Jordan and was a tremendous blessing to him and the church there.

Bro. Carpenter loved the work of God, he loved everything about church and he loved the Michigan Camp. All of us from Michigan have seen him work around the camp. He wasn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and get dirty. He led by doing.

Today my wife and I shed tears remembering our ‘cousin’, our friend, a great pastor, a tremendous preacher, and our beloved District Superintendent… Joseph D. Carpenter.

For the last many months we have all viewed his will to live and his struggle with disease in person and on Facebook.

He has been exceedingly brave. His wife and children have also been heroic in their support and comfort giving. The rest of us have tearfully watched and waited, praying, reading updates, and hoping against hope. And then as we held our collective breaths, we watched the man we love leave us. We were forced to say good-bye!

Reading the sentiments of family and friends as their aching hearts have spilled out onto the printed page has comforted us.

Facebook Posts From His Immediate Family

Sister Victoria Carpenter (Wife) “Even though my heart is hurting I am flooded with precious memories of my life with this awesome man. I am so blessed, so very blessed. I love him more than words can express.

“With family and close friends tonight as we sit with my husband. Feeling the sweet peace of God in the room.

“Sitting here in the hospital with Joe and Angela. My husband is telling us stories of when his Mom and Grandmother came into the Christian Temple church in Jackson. His grandmother was healed of a Tumor and that was the beginning of their walk with God. So interesting!!

“All the family was together tonight. Love my family so much. Good talks and lots of laughter. My husband had a much better day, still very weak.

“Can’t keep a good man down. Sorting through mail.

“Left my sweet husband resting tonight. Pray that he has a good night.

“Bro. and Sis. Mooney came to visit my husband today. Joe came and then Jay, Angela and Kelsea came this evening. My husband was feeling much better when I left tonight, after having a rough day.

“With my sweetheart. He is resting pretty good right now. Had a rough night, lots of pain, but I think they are getting it under control. Covet your prayers. Love you, my precious family and friends.

“So comforting to have my children with me as we travel down this road with my sweetheart and their father. The love they have shown and expressed toward their Dad is amazing. Such love. I am blessed beyond measure. The outpouring of love and prayer from family, friends, and our church is so much appreciated.”

Joe Carpenter - Dad's hand will forever guide mine. I love you Dad.

Pastor Joe Carpenter (Son) “Dad is resting…. Here with mom, Victoria Jordan Carpenter and my wonderful wife, Sherrie Young Carpenter. I wouldn’t trade these last few days for any thing in the world.

“Reminiscing funny stories about Dad that only the family know… just in case you were wondering he has a not so serious side we get to see… precious memories. With Victoria Jordan Carpenter, Joshua Carpenter, Sherrie Young Carpenter.

“Everyone is sleeping but me, just watching my Dad…  I am overwhelmed with emotions… beyond explanation… JESUS!

“Dad is still with us but leaning more toward his heavenly home.

“Just had a wonderful prayer meeting in Dads room, Jay Jones was reading the Psalms… God is amazing…

“Well, Dads ticket home was not for yesterday. He has spent a lifetime planning for this trip; only God knows the date so we wait patiently on Him.

“Dad is still fighting the fight…..spending time with mom, Angela and Jay, Nate and Lisa Nix, and Bro and Sis Henson. What sweet friends to stay up with us and Dad all night.

“Life will never be the same… Dad has gone to his reward.

“My Dad is not gone. He has simply traded that which can never last for that which can never be taken away. Thank you for this awesome line Martha Jaynes.”

Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Can't keep a good man down. Sorting through mail.

“Bishop Carpenter began his ministry in the early 60′s, teaching Sunday School and leading the Youth Ministry of Christian Temple Church in Jackson, Michigan. He was elected as Section 3 Youth Director in 1967, the same year he received his ministerial credentials. After many years of serving as the Assistant Pastor in Jackson he was called to Mount Morris to pastor.

Reverend Carpenter was the Senior Pastor of First Apostolic Church of Mount Morris from November of 1981 until May of 2011. In April of 2011 he was elected as Bishop of FAC. As pastor of First Apostolic he started daughter works in Imlay City and Kentwood, Michigan. He has served the district in numerous capacities over the past 43 years that he has held credentials with the United Pentecostal Church, International. Pastor Carpenter has ministered in several countries, including The Philippines, Ethiopia, Estonia, Italy, and has encouraged and supported congregations and missionaries around the world.

From 1973 until 1981 he served as District Youth President

From 1984 until 1985 he served as District Sunday School Director

From 1985 until 1990 he served as District Home Missions Director

From 1990 until 2000 he served as District Secretary-Treasurer

In May of 2000 he was elected as the District Superintendent.

Reverend Carpenter was a member of the General Board of the UPCI and also a board member of the United Pentecostal Foundation.

Joseph D. Carpenter

May 13, 1946-October 3, 2011”

Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Angela and her Dad.

Angela Jones (Daughter) ”I never had to look far for a beautiful example of marriage… my parents (Victoria Jordan Carpenter and Joseph D Carpenter) lived it out before me!

“Spending precious moments with my daddy, Joseph D Carpenter! Love him so very much! I’m so blessed!

“Mom, I love you!!!

“Dad, I love you so much!!!!!”

Sherrie Young Carpenter  (Daughter In Law) “You have been the best wife dad could have ever asked for…. Love you!

“Dad…. I love you so very much and am thankful that you have been my Father-in-law. Could never have asked for anyone better. I truly love you!!!!”

“It is well… my sweet father-in-law went to meet our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We praise him for this….”

Jay Jones (Son In Law)

“Love you, Dad!”

Facebook Posts From Extended Family

Jenny Jordan Teets “Joe, I have looked on FB every hour on the hour all day, looking for a tidbit of news. I know it must be so hard keeping vigil over your dad for hours. But there is a lot of people praying for you, so try to remember all the wonderful times he provided for you, Angela, and your mother… and your mates, and his grandchildren. He has made the world a much better place for so many people!”

“Vicky, my beautiful sister, it must be one of the saddest days of our lives when we lose a loved one. I love you and want to be a comfort to you! We are so proud of his example and the way all of you have carried out your love for Joe these last weeks. I’ll see you soon….”

Sandy Jordan  “I woke up early this morning thinking and praying for you all! We love you.“

Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Bro. & Sis. Mooney came back up today to see my husband. Love these people.

Rebecca Starr Trammell  “God put you two together and you are and awesome team and raised a beautiful family that is example to many. Vicky you have shown such love and strength and graceful spirit. We love you.”

Marisa Ballestero- Hartzell “Thinking of you all today, I was awakened several times in the night with you all in my heart and prayers. Love you so very much!!”

“Heaven has received a treasure! Brandon and I loved your dad so very much , he had a big impact on our ministry. We will be praying you all for the days ahead.♥♥

Marcia Starr Ballestero  “Dear Family We are Praying for you all!! Wish I could be right beside you to just do what ever I could to lighten your load. Love and Prayers.”

“You have always shown such Love and Respect!! God gives Peace and carry’s us. Your Love and Devotion is such a strength to your family. Love You and Praying. I Remember when we all got married the same year five months apart I was in your Wedding You were in Mine. There have been many Loving and Happy Years of Memories. Love You!!

“Love and prayers for our family of Cousins Vicky, Jodi, Sherry, Angela, Jay and their children for the Loss of Bro. Joe Carpenter we will Miss him so much. He has been so Important to all of us in the family and Michigan District. God will carry you in this hard time. Love you, Marcia Ballestero”

Mia Clark-Chapdelaine “Love you SO much!”

“We are mourning, but I can’t help but picture him heading down streets of gold to check in to his new room.”

Suzanne Priddy  “Our family prayed for you all this morning on our way to work. The tapestry of our family is woven with threads of memories… Each shade of color is forever placed with loved ones smiles, trials and victories. So when our minds take us to the gallery of memories we will see the value of each of those that were sewn into the fabric of our lives~

“We love you all and are continuing to pray for strength and peace as the final threads of your Dad’s part in the tapestry are woven in~”

Victoria Jordan Carpenter - My brother, Mark came up to the hospital to visit with Joe.

Sara Starr Copple  “We Love you…Tom & I and our church has been keeping the prayers ongoing for your family!

“We love you very much… my words fail me…such a loss for us all… you all are such a close~ beautiful family who has brightened the world around you!!! Love my cousins dearly!

“Sending our love…no words are adequate…you are dear family…”

Julie Perry Hopper  “Praying strength for you, Victoria Jordan Carpenter, and Angela Jones and your families. Please let your dad and everyone there know that we are praying. Love to all of you.”

Karen S Perry  “Dear sweet and beautiful Vicky my heart is aching for you and your family.”

“Sharing in your time of sorrow I’ve cried and cried some more because of your father’s passing plus the memories it brought to mind of the loss of my own father to cancer when he was only 54, 40 yrs ago and the vigil that mother, my family Uncle Victor and Aunt Theodora kept at his bed side. Your dad will live on in the lives of your family for as long as you live.”

Priscilla Starr Spears  “You have been an example of integrity, faithfulness and Christian character to me for the past 20 years Today, like a true mentor, you show us how to walk in faith in paths unknown, but awaiting us all. Our prayers are with you; we love you and salute you as a dear friend and compatriot. May God grant our prayers as we pray for you, and may you feel our love and support across the miles, but nearby in spirit, faith and hope. Curtis and Priscilla”

Alexa Olson  “Vicky I want to say how much I admire the strength you have shown. I know only God has done that for you, but you are still amazing. Love you and your family and praying for you. So glad you and the kids have had this time.”

Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Jim Fielder and Rodney Clark came to see Joe. Wonderful friends.

Cindy Clark  “We are praying for strength and peace for all of you. Sending our love to you today!”

Mark Hopper “My Special Prayer this morning is: God Bring comfort to my Superintendent Joseph D Carpenter and His family. He has been such an incredible leader in the Michigan District. He has set the bar very high in faithfulness and kindness that only I can strive to reach. He has always displayed the Character of a True Christian. I thank God For Him. Bring peace and assurance today to Vicki, Joe, Sherrie, Angela, and Jay, knowing that God is always in control. We love you Bishop.

“Please pray for the family of our dear Superintendent Joseph Carpenter. What a great man of integrity. YOU WILL BE MISSED!”

Christy Huntley Ballestero  “Sharing in your loss.. You are right, it won’t be the same. Love and prayers…”

Marian June Davis  “Vicky our love and prayers are with you at this sad passing of Joe.He was a great man and seem strong right to the end.Your kids are in our prayers.”

Facebook Posts From Friends

Jerry Ann Guidroz  “We love you both!!”

Corliss Thompson Williams  “Love & prayers coming your way!!!”

“Vicky, we are praying for all of you! So thankful for the wonderful memories that you two shared! May they give you comfort.”

Brenda Hudson  “We just finished Morning Prayer here at our church and want you to know that we have prayed for you and your family. Prayed for you throughout the whole day yesterday. We are keeping the prayer vigil going.”

Suzie Toadvine, Wanda Fielder, and Cindy Clark was here today. love my friends. - Victoria Carpenter

Wanda Fielder  “I woke up several times in the night praying for your family. May God surround with His presence! We are with you in thought and prayer. So glad we got to be with you just two days ago and cherish the moment.

“Sent prayers your way this morning.

“We grieve for the loss of your father and our dear friend. We have the fondest of memories of our travels together and are extremely grateful for those precious times shared. Praying for you.”

Brenda Leaman   “My dear precious friend – this part of the journey is the most difficult but holds the greatest treasure – either of miraculous healing – or ultimate victory! You have both been so incredibly strong and such a shining example of the peace of God which passes all understanding. Your lives reflect an unwavering confidence in God and a deep love for the Michigan District. You have always been true servants. Our deepest love and continuous prayers are with you.”

Connie Bernard  “Bro Bernard and I love you all and are praying.”

Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Bob and Diane Stroup surprised us with a visit to the hospital tonight.

Suzi Henson Toadvine  “Woke up thinking about you! Praying for God to give you strength today! Hugs to you…”

Barbara Keller  “Love you and your family…you are in our thoughts and prayers!!”

Kimmela Harville Hall  “Praying for you all tonight…In the name of Jesus! We love you all…”

“All of our hearts are deeply saddened by this news, and yes, he did fight a good fight. He will be greatly missed. We are praying for you and your family for strength and comfort that only comes from above. We love you all. Please give our dear Sis. Carpenter a big hug from us..,♥”

Karla Baxter Sistrunk  “Prayer going up all over the state and the USA today for Bro. Carpenter, you and all of your family! God is faithful and with you every step of the way. We love you all.”

Laquita Reed Mullings  “So very sorry Bro Carpenter is in pain. I know you are too. Sending you both love & prayers from The Mullings.”

Mark Grisham  “let our hearts be your pillow.. may you feel the tenderness and love we are sending you now……..& the comfort of Our Fathers Love.”

Scott Sistrunk  “The MI District UPCI lost a great leader tonight. Bro. Carpenter lead this District to grow from 78 churches to 106 over his 11 year tenure. This ranks among the top growth achievements in recent UPCI history. In the 15 years prior MI had remained at 78 churches for 15 years. May God bless and comfort the Victoria Jordan Carpenter family.”

Judy Abbott Hudson “Vicky, my sweet friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you tonight.”

Betty Strawcutter  “The first thing I do in the morning and the last thing I do at night is read your posts Joe. Sometimes there are no words to communicate the deep feelings of the heart but we your friends feel the need to try, your dad has always represented himself, his family, his church and his God with integrity, kindness and love. What he has given in life is now echoing back from those who know him…we care, we pray, we surround him with our thoughts and love.

Holding you up in special prayer today my friend, God continue to strengthen you. Your family is loved by the Strawcutters.

“I’m feeling numb right now – my heart hurts for all of you.

“We have lost a wonderful friend and spiritual leader tonight, Bishop Carpenter has departed this life. My heart grieves for the family – there is nothing more painful than death…I am so thankful that heaven is a city without a cemetery.”

†††

How Do You Say Good-Bye?

It’s never easy. As we all can see by these comments, it’s not easy for us to see our loved ones go from us. Even though we know their suffering is over and they are in the presence of the Lord. Still, our hearts ache, our eyes fill with tears, and our arms will never be full again.

But, we have this one consolation… our “Good-bye” was not final!

The Pentecostals At The Church Of Christ Funeral

The funeral chapel was jammed with about 30 Pentecostals and nearly 100 Church of Christ members.  Evidently this funeral was considered important. Six Church of Christ pastors were in attendance and each one spoke. No Pentecostal preacher had been invited to speak; yet several of us came anyway. I sat close to the back with my brother-in-law Pastor Nathan Yandris and my sister Ramona.

The large framed picture sitting on the closed casket was one of a beautiful middle-aged woman named Phyllis. She had a look of professionalism and class about her. Her brown hair was cut shoulder length. It appeared her make up had been professionally applied for the photo, and her jewelry looked very expensive.

The front row contained a grieving husband and beside him, his redheaded son and daughter-in-law. The son appeared to be the only child. No others sat near, leaving the guests to assume the mourners were alone in this crowd.

The Church of Christ preachers spoke one by one, and each said comforting things that I am sure helped. The final speaker did a superb job, actually. One could tell this was not his first funeral.

At the conclusion of his homily, the minister announced, “It is the wishes of the family that those who wish to say a few words about our beloved sister, should have an opportunity to say a public goodbye. He then walked to the front row and sat down.

One at a time, six middle-aged women walked to the podium and spoke sweet words about the loss of their friend. All of them mentioned that they had met Phyllis at either AA or Al-Anon.

They spoke of her friendship, of her church activities, her help with their lives, and her struggle with addictions and theirs.

After the last one sat down, there was a moment of quietness as all waited for someone else to stand. No one did.

Turning around and giving the crowd a swift appraising look, the redheaded son clutched a new Bible as he stepped to the small podium. His 25 years seemed much older. He was poised. He held the Bible in his left hand up close to his heart.

With a voice that never broke, he thanked everyone for coming. He thanked the ministers that spoke and he thanked his mother’s pastor as well.

With a smile to the women that had come to the front to speak, he thanked them as cherished friends.

That is where his story began!

“Almost 6 weeks ago, I first heard that my mom had cancer.  The doctor said that it was terminal and inoperable. I was shattered. Then they said she only had a few days to live. I was an immediate basket case.

“My mom was young, she was beautiful too,” He said, pointing at her picture.

“I went home that night and sat on my front porch. I was drinking a beer and smoking a cigarette, and was crying my heart out, when this man saw me and stopped.” (He pointed at a large black man on the 2^nd row.) “He asked me if I was alright? I told him no.

“When he came up to the porch I told him the news about my mom. He spoke comforting words to me and asked if he could pray for me. I said yes and he did. I felt something I had never felt before.

“Then he sat down beside me and taught me what he called a short Home Bible Study. He showed me about Acts 2:38. He said that I needed to repent, and get baptized in Jesus name and that the Lord would give me the Holy Ghost. He said that Jesus would be my comforter.

“I prayed right there on my porch and asked Jesus to forgive me of my sins. I told him I wanted to be baptized the Bible way, so he took me to his church, Apostolic Tabernacle, and the pastor came over and baptized me in Jesus name. When I came up out of the water, I was speaking in tongues. I got the Holy Ghost just like they did in the Bible!” He said, as he raised and then waved his Bible.

The Pentecostals responded with much noise and many of us stood and clapped our hands. The Church of Christ crowd went silent.

“I was thrilled! I had never been so happy in my life! That night I prayed that God would help me to share this with my mom. I knew she had to have this before she died.

“I prayed that God would help me find a way to speak to her. I knew she was wrapped up in her Church. She had been a lifetime member, and had always been involved in one department or another.

“The first thing the next morning, I prayed before I went over to mom’s house. When I got there, I was surprised to see a Bible lying open on the kitchen table.”

“I asked mom what the Bible was there for, and she said that she was close to dying and didn’t feel saved. She said she was looking for more than what she had.

“I said mom, you been a member of the Church of Christ for 45 years.”

She said, “That’s right, but I’m not ready to meet God. I need more!”

(He turned to the Church of Christ pastor and said, “Sorry sir!”)

The redheaded new convert was filled with Holy Ghost enthusiasm as he told his story. His eyes were red rimmed and watering.

I said, “Mom, let me tell you what had happened to me last night. I told her the whole story. About the beer, the Bible study, the baptism and the Holy Ghost.

“Mom started crying and said son, ‘Tell me what he told you.’

I sat down with her and showed her the same scriptures in Acts that my new friend had told me.

“She got down and began to repent like the Bible said to. When she finished, she said that she couldn’t leave the house to go to church. She was too weak and was attached to an oxygen tank.

“Mom said, maybe we could fill her big Jacuzzi tub up and baptize her in that. Dad helped me and I baptized my mom in Jesus name. She came up out of the water speaking in tongues just like I did. I was so happy, I shouted all over the room.”

(All of us Pentecostals are now on our feet, with our hands in the air, worshipping!)

“My dad said, ‘Baptize me too!’ So I did and he got the Holy Ghost too”

“I sure did,” came a strong voiced reply from the front row. The dad had his hand in the air.

The Pentecostal’s worship was so overwhelming that even some of the church of Christ people started crying by now.

They all knew that a man with an experience is never at the mercies of a man with an argument.

The worship of the small group of saints roared in the ears of opposition. For several minutes it went on. It felt unstoppable.

“All of you Church of Christ members need this Holy Ghost, he went on. “It will do for you what AA can’t. It will do for you what Al-Anon can’t. You need to be baptized in Jesus name to be saved. You need the Holy Ghost speaking with other tongues to be saved. If you want to see my mom in heaven, then obey Acts 2:38.

When he walked back to his place, the crowd stood and gave him a standing ovation.

The Mourners At The Old Man’s Funeral

The casket was closed. That alone made everything seem final. There was not even a picture of the deceased anywhere to be seen. He was only still alive in the memories of those that had known him.

Family members, fellow employees, acquaintances, and friends both old and new were in attendance. Some of them mourned and consoled each another with knowing looks and tear-stained faces. Their great sense of loss was clearly evident as they continually wiped the tears away.

In the same room, others were smiling oblivious to the tearful around them. They hugged each other for joy. They seemed very happy that the old man had finally died. He had been a real source of irritation to them for a long time. They seemed to be sighing with great relief that he was finally out of the way.

Even the preacher actually seemed happy that the old man was dead too. This was unusual. Preachers normally don’t get happy at funerals, but this one did.

The sniffles and the sobs attracted everyone’s attention again. The old man would be sorely missed. For them, it was unthinkable that he was dead.

They had comforted themselves with stories of his exploits. They struggled with their losses. He’d meant something special and important to them. They were greatly irritated by the smiling faces in the room. What was wrong with those other people? How could anyone smile like that at a funeral?

Passion looked at the casket where “the old man” lay and sobbed. His best friend was dead.

Lust wept at the loss of a child.

Habit greatly mourned the slave who had broken free from it’s chains.

Guilt shook with disbelief. They had travelled many miles together.

Heartache was crying and refused to be comforted.

Selfishness and Pleasure wailed for their departed friend and comrade.

Pride hung it’s head in grief. It had evidently failed at keeping him alive.

Satan himself was the chief mourner.

The funeral procession was mixed with tears of sorrow and smiles. It’s sounds were those of weeping and shouts of joy. The two crowds kept separate from each other. Tension was strong between the two camps.

The shouters wanted to make sure “the old man” was buried. They wanted to make sure that some green grass was growing on top of him. The mourners were hoping for a miracle of resurrection.

The preacher made the final pronouncement of burial and the sound of rejoicing was overwhelming loud and raucous. There was so much joy in the camp, that the mourners all made a hasty retreat.

Rom. 6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

Rom. 6:2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

Rom. 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

Luke 15:10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

Is Your “Old Man” Yet Alive, Or Has He Died Out To Sin?

If He Is Still Alive, You Need To Make Funeral Arrangements Today!

You Can Find Out How To Make Them By Reading Acts 2:38.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Saying ‘Good-Bye’ To Friends

Saying Good-Bye to friends is not easy. In my experience, tears have been involved from time to time. It’s hard to say Good-Bye to those you love and those who mean so much to you.

Saying Good-Bye To Supposed Friends:

Friendships can be transient. Some people come and go in your life. They just move on without warning. Maybe they outgrow you or they focus on other things. I don’t have that answer. But it doesn’t feel good.

Some Friends have even been known to turn on their old friends. It uncomfortable to see someone who used to be a Friend and now they avoid even making eye contact with you. Or, if they do speak, it’s cool and not warm like it used to be. The emptiness in your heart is deep when you walk away. The sense of loss is almost overwhelming. New friends are a medicine and a replenishment of the soul.

Saying Good-Bye To A Former Friend:

Looking back over a lifetime, I had friends in school whose names I can’t even remember now. A couple of my friends were so important to me at the time, that I included them in my wedding. Today I don’t know their phone number, their address or how many grandchildren they have. We haven’t talked in several decades. Back then I thought we were friends.

Saying Good-Bye to some friends is gradual. With others, it’s a much quicker process.

Saying Good-Bye To Dear Friends:

The last several weeks have been horrible for a number of Pentecostal families, for several churches and for many of my ministering friends.

The recent news of the passing of beloved men of God or their family members has brought tears to many of our eyes. Some men so impact your heart that you’re never quite the same. Their death leaves a major void in your life. Their family’s tears rip your heart out.

Funerals are hard for us. We call them ‘Home Goings” and do our best to rejoice that the departed has kept the Faith and finished their course and are now are now resting in Jesus. Yet tears still flow freely because we feel the loss so deeply.

Maybe they didn’t call us on the phone everyday, but when they saw you, the fellowship picked right back up from where you left off. They treated you warmly and hugged you like they meant it. They made you feel like you were their very dear friend.

The past week and this coming week find me already missing my recently departed friends. May they rest in Peace, and may the Prince of Peace comfort the hearts of the families and friends left behind.

Some day we will all say Good-Bye to this old world. We look forward to going to a place where none of us shall ever have to say Good-bye again.

Biblical Promise: No More Separation

Rev. 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

• The sea separates. There will be no more sea over there.

Biblical Promise: No More Tears

Rev. 21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

_____________________________________________________

What A Day That Will Be

Words & Music by Jim Hill

There is coming a day,
When no heart aches shall come,
No more clouds in the sky,
No more tears to dim the eye,
All is peace forever more,
On that happy golden shore,
What a day, glorious day that will be.

Chorus:

What a day that will be,
When my Jesus I shall see,
And I look upon His face,
The One who saved me by His grace;
When He takes me by the hand,
And leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day, glorious day that will be.

There’ll be no sorrow there,
No more burdens to bear,
No more sickness, no pain,
No more parting over there;
And forever I will be,
With the One who died for me,
What a day, glorious day that will be.

Chorus:

What a day that will be,
When my Jesus I shall see,
And I look upon His face,
The One who saved me by His grace;
When He takes me by the hand,
And leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day, glorious day that will be

Bring Them Up To Pitch

The home going of Brother C. M. Becton is a great loss to us all. I will be among those that will truly miss him.

The first Camp Meeting I ever heard Bro. Becton preach, was Michigan’s in the 1970’s. I wish I could remember the exact title but I cannot. It was something about ‘Bringing Them Up To Pitch.’ I can remember his message though. It was one of those unforgettable messages. Here are some of his sermon points:

1. The Reader’s Digest told a true story about a shepherd that was lonely. He had no company but his portable radio and his violin. He wrote a letter to CBS and asked if they would play an ‘A’ at midnight on a certain night for him, so he could tune his violin. They did. It was important to him that his violin could be in tune. It’s always important to be in tune.

2. A piano has 88 keys. When it gets out of tune, it is not thrown away. A piano tuner is called. He has tuning forks, tools and instruments necessary to bring the piano back up to pitch. Then once again the instrument is looked upon with pride and it’s music becomes a joy.

3. Bro. Becton called the camp’s organist, and keyboardist to the platform. He expressed how noticeable it was to be off even one half of a note. The musicians were asked to play  ‘Amazing Grace.’ in ‘A’ flat. It sounded beautiful. He then asked the organ player to play the song in ‘A’ flat and the keyboardist to play it in ‘A’. There was only a half note difference, but it was very unpleasant to the ears. It’s important to be in tune.

4. When Apollos first came preaching, his doctrine was off-key. Priscilla and Aquila did not throw him away or call him a false prophet; they just took him home and brought him up to pitch.

5. It is easy to discard people who are not just like us. (He was not talking about compromising the doctrine or doing away with holiness.) However, differences are everywhere. If you are quick to throw people away because they are not just like you, then remember the story of the piano being brought back up to pitch.

6. There are some things most commonly believed among us that are written in black and white in the Bible, and should never be changed or tampered with. On the other hand there are some things that are not essential for Salvation, and yet men have separated fellowship rather than bring them up to pitch.

7. Don’t be quick to throw people away if they seem a bit off-key. Just bring them up to pitch. It opens the door for unity.

≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈

Update:

Thirteen Days From Eternity

At 3:00pm today, the nurse at the nursing home called Phyllis Crandall’s daughter and told her that her mother had just died. They had last checked her vitals and her oxygen mask at 2:15. She was 65.

Phyllis had been in failing health for a while. She was also a backslider. No one seems to remember for sure how many years she had been away from God, but she hasn’t attended church in over 20 years. That much everyone agreed on.

She had been a member at several Pentecostal churches in the area. For one reason or another, her and her husband had changed churches several times over the years. When he died, Phyllis somehow became unconnected with church and stayed that way.

Then to make matters worse, her health began to deteriorate. After stays in the hospitals, she was sent to a nursing home for her final days.

She lived with an oxygen mask on her face. Her weight problems no doubt worked against her too.

She had called her daughter almost two weeks ago and said, “I feel like I need to pray.”

Her condition was not good. Pastor Kenneth Bow was called to come and pray for her.

When he came into the room Phyllis said, “Bro. Bow, I just don’t know if I could ever speak in Tongues again.”

(Besides her health limitations, she was fearful that God wouldn’t let her because of lack of faithfulness to Him.)

“Yes you can speak in Tongues again, you’re still God’s child!” Pastor Bow said to encourage her.

He laid his hands on her, and then like he’d used Paddles that restart a stopped heart, Phyllis physically jerked and sat up in her hospital bed. Her hands in the air. In 10 seconds she was clearing speaking in Tongues. They pulled the mask aside as she prayed. She continued to speak in Tongues.

That was 13 days ago.

Death walked the corridors of her nursing home today. But 13 days ago, Mercy got there first.