USA – Grits with Grace

Family, fear, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, loving others, Memorial Day, Military memories, prayer, priorities, Scripture, thankful, Trials, USA

Freedom

Posted on May 31, 2023May 30, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12

I know Memorial Day is the in rearview mirror but this needs to be said and read…again. It all started one Thursday night and we had gone to one of our favorite eating places in Marion…a town not far from where we live. We did our Sam’s Club thing and then decided to call it a night. So, we headed for 217 back in Harrisburg. As we were driving down the highway, on a whim, we made a right turn at a familiar intersection. We had driven by it so many times but this time we turned.

The sign said it went to Creal Springs, but I found out it went somewhere else—to something else. We were cruising along just enjoying the ride when I thought I saw one of those “brown signs.” These signs usually indicate a place of special interest. As I went by, I thought I saw the words cemetery and Revolutionary War. I went down the road a ways and then told Judy I saw a sign for a cemetery…perhaps an old one. I turned around.

Back down the road, there was indeed a sign. We pulled off the road and it said, “Ellis Family Cemetery and Revolutionary War gravesite. I really couldn’t believe that it was true. I mean, out East you would find those kinds of gravesites everywhere, but here in Southern Illinois? We decided we had to investigate. It turned out there was no road, just a driveway. Well, after trying to decide if we were going to get shot for trespassing, we decided to give it a try. As it turned out, the driveway went between two houses which led to a pasture. Way at the back of the pasture we could see a small cemetery. There wasn’t a road, but I could see where a car had gone before, so off we went.

When we got there, we found the gravesite of John Ellis. He was born in 1754 and died in 1850. He lived for 96 years, which is incredible, but even more amazing…he fought in the American Revolutionary War. He had two monuments. One was much newer, one much older. The older one simply said, “For Military Merit” and someone had painted his name on it. I was overwhelmed. Here in Southern Illinois was the grave of a man, a hero, who fought for the birth of our country.

This man was there, on the battlefield, when a group of men and women declared our freedom from England. This.man.was.there. He put it all on the line for a cause greater than himself. And for the last 247 years that is what freedom loving American heroes have done. Through conflicts great and small they have served, they have bled, and many have died. I value the saying, “All gave some, some gave all.” I value the sacrifice of all these freedom fighters through the centuries and decades. I also love what they fought for.

I know these are difficult times for our nation, but we have seen difficult times before. At his first inauguration on March 4, 1933, Franklin Roosevelt said this. “This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive, and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.” Don’t rush past those words. They are powerful and they are worth believing.

I believe in this country. I believe that even with all its warts and imperfections it is still the best country in the world. Having visited well over twenty other countries, I’ve seen the competition and America wins hands down. I spent an Independence Day in basic training for the Air Force in 1972. Lights-out was about 8:00 pm and I was lying in my bunk when the fireworks starting going off. I crept out of bed and went to the window and watched as the fireworks exploded in the Texas sky. Two emotions came over me. One, I missed family. Somewhere in Florida they were celebrating freedom. The other though, was more personal. I was becoming an American airman serving my country. I was one of her defenders and I was proud…proud to serve and proud to be an American.

The Book says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” That is so true. As a nation when we choose God, when we choose to make Him ours, we do better. When we don’t, we don’t. It is just that simple. The second part of that verse is equally important. God is still inviting, calling people to be His. Skin color doesn’t matter, economic status doesn’t matter, creed doesn’t matter. He simply invites every man, woman, and child to be His. The invitation is open, and the decision is personal…individual.

So, God bless America. If you are a God follower, a God believer, why not start today with a whispered prayer of thanks for this great country. And then, pause, be still and listen for surely the Whisperer will whisper. He may speak through His Word, He may speak through another person, or a beautiful sunrise or sunset. Regardless, He will whisper, “You can rest in Me. I’ve got this.” Bro. Dewayne

fear, forgiveness, friends, Grace, gratitude, Integrity, life, love, loving others, Memorial Day, prayer, priorities, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, travel, Trials, USA

Heroes

Posted on May 29, 2023May 28, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13

Years later, it still tugs at my heart. I’m not sure how I found my way there, but I was grateful. During my assignment in Sembach, Germany we had the opportunity to see so much. From Hitler’s hideaway called “The Eagle’s Nest” in Berchtesgaden to the windmills of Holland to the Alps of Switzerland we were constantly amazed at what was all around us. But nothing prepared me for Luxembourg.

We had some friends that we had known in our days at Moody Air Force Base in South Georgia. They received orders to Germany several months before we did. They were only a couple of hours from us, so we saw each other pretty frequently. It must have been during one of our forays that we came to it—Luxembourg American Cemetery. It was one of the most hallowed sights I have ever seen.

There, in the cemetery, are 5,075 white Lasa marble crosses and stars of David. Row after row of headstones that mark the final resting place of American heroes. Each one made the ultimate sacrifice for us, for you and me, that we can live in freedom. General George Patton is buried there. Two Medal of Honor recipients are also buried there: David G. Turner and William D. McGee. Twenty-two sets of brothers lay buried side by side throughout the cemetery. Some, 371 in fact, were never found. They are simply listed as missing in action. 102 are just unknown.

This place of honor was established on December 29, 1944. Many of the soldiers died during the Battle of the Bulge…Hitler’s last push to turn the tide of the war in Germany’s favor. It failed but it came at great cost to the Allied forces. It was a harsh winter and because of the urgency of the times many were sent to fight with little or no winter gear. The desperate Germans showed little mercy to those taken prisoner. And all this occurred just nine months, nine months, before the war ended. So many had survived D-Day and countless days of combat only to make the ultimate sacrifice months before the grand reunion with family.

Heroes. It is a word we throw around lightly these days. In a world where everyone gets a trophy, we are in danger of losing the value of this incredible word. Hero. Dictionary.com defines it as “a person noted for courageous acts.” Oxford says it is a person who is admired or idealized for courage. Webster defines it as an illustrious warrior or one who shows great courage. Another place said it is a person who at great danger to themselves puts others first.

I went to Toys-R-Us one time and there they had several aisles of superhero stuff. As I turned the corner a sign caught my eye. It simply said, “Real Heroes.” Along that aisle were the soldiers and sailor figures as well as police, firemen, and other emergency responders. If I went to that aisle today it would have to include doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Real heroes…real people putting others first at peril to themselves.

But there would be one missing. Jesus Christ, the Hero of Heaven, who willingly, who bravely, gave Himself to a Roman cross that men, women, and children could be free. The cross was so horrible it was called the death of deaths. It was so horrible it was illegal to crucify a Roman citizen. And yet…He went. Why? He loved me. He loved you.

Amazingly it was not for some of us but all of us. Skin color, economic station, language, nationality, capacity to be bad or good doesn’t matter. The Bible simply says, “He came to seek and save that which was lost.” It simply says, “Whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” It simply says He is not willing for any to perish but all to come home. Anyone—I like anyone. Anyone who acknowledges their need for a rescue will find one in Jesus. And this Hero not only does a meet and greet, He invites you to join His family. How about that!

So, when you hear the national anthem, place your hand over your heart as a salute to those who paid the price for our freedom. When you see a veteran, thank them for his or her service and sacrifice. When you walk through a cemetery with your kids, point out the graves of the men and women who served and tell them why they are so special. And when you talk to the Hero of Heaven next time, thank Him for forgiving your sin. Thank Him for always being there. Thank Him for giving you a place to rest. And, thank Him for having this….because He does. Bro. Dewayne

Family, fear, food, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, loving others, Military memories, prayer, Scripture, travel, Trials, USA

Losing Lift

Posted on April 6, 2023April 5, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 7:24-25

It was something I thought I would never see. From 1977 to 1980 my wife Judy and I were stationed with the Air Force in Germany. I have said it so many times, but it was a great time. We were young, still newly married and had the opportunity to see and experience so much of Europe. It was good duty too. I was assigned to a small base and provided administrative support for one of the flying squadrons. We flew the OV-10—a twin engine forward air control aircraft. There weren’t many enlisted guys in the squadron and the pilots treated us like family.

Obviously, safety, and in particular flight safety, was always a big deal. I remember right before I left to come back to the States, we were on a long streak of accident-free flying. The commander was also due to rotate back to the States in just a couple of weeks. He said, “The best gift you guys can give me is to remain accident free.” A couple of days later, however, one of our planes crashed.

What I thought I would never see, and certainly didn’t want to see, was another crash. One day, I was standing in my office talking to one of the pilots about who knows what. I was looking out the window as we chatted and saw an aircraft, not one of ours but a F-4 fighter jet, literally falling out of the sky. I blurted out to the pilot I was talking to, “That plane is going to crash.” I remember his response to this day, “That’s not something to joke about.” I wasn’t joking. Less than half a mile from where we were this massive fighter aircraft did literally fall from the sky. The pilot ejected but sadly did not survive. It was devastating. I can still see the explosion in my mind.

As it turns out the plane wasn’t trying to land and where he crashed had nothing to do with our base. He was flying over the area, lost airworthiness, and went into what is called a flat spin. When this happens, planes can lose their lift and they crash. You see, to stay in the air, planes must have the lift provided by forward movement and air moving in and around their wings. When that doesn’t happen, planes fall from the sky.

It not only happens to planes…it happens to people…like me…like you. A couple of years ago, I did the healthy thing. I began eating right, checking my sugar levels, and exercising five or six times a week. The results came quickly and were amazing. After three months I had my blood checked and the results were what my physician called, “beautiful.” Literally every critical number was in the normal range. It was amazing…it was awesome. And then, I lost my lift.

The best I can tell my success began my downfall. After winning so big, I wasn’t sure what was next. It was like the day after Christmas. The win was in the bag, and I lost my drive to keep on winning. Over time I returned to my poor eating habits and slowly, or perhaps not so slowly, things began to change…for the worse. Like I said, “When you lose your lift…you crash.”

I was thinking about this before I began writing and decided I really should share my story. Maybe I can help keep someone from crashing. And, it really doesn’t have to be about health…it can be anything. The bottom line is when we lose our momentum, our drive, our lift in any area of our lives—spiritually, emotionally, or physically—we are in danger of crashing. Marriages can go south; God can become a distant relative and we can become emotionally disconnected. We need to be careful.

Paul, the guy who wrote a chunk of what we call the New Testament, knew about losing lift and I think he knew about crashing too. He asked the question, “Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?” Can you identify with that question? Honestly, I can. But it is the answer that gives me hope. It is the answer that can give you hope. He writes, “Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” Bam! There you go. The answer is our faith and trust in Jesus.

I’m glad he didn’t just say to try harder or maybe pull yourself up by your bootstraps. I’m glad he confirmed what I know and what you might know. The answer is Jesus. He doesn’t just limit His help to obvious God stuff—He is there always and in every way. He loves me when I get it right and when I don’t. And no matter what, spiritually, emotionally, or physically He goes with He—never condemning and always encouraging. I like that. It’s good to know that “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne

Family, friends, gratitude, life, loving others, Military memories, prayer, priorities, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, travel, Trials, USA, wisdom

Black Rock

Posted on March 22, 2023March 21, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

You are my rock and my fortress.” Psalm 31:3

It was worth the wait. My wife Judy and I decided to hit the road for a quick trip to Dayton, Ohio. It all started when my son-in-law sent me a picture from the National Air Force Museum located in, wait for it, Dayton. Being an Air Force veteran, I had heard of it but had never taken the opportunity to go and see it. When he sent me a couple of pictures…I knew it was time. So, we loaded up and drove up and over and in about five hours we were there.

Let me just say it was worth every mile. The museum is housed in four huge hanger type buildings and each hanger held a different era of air history. The first was the period from the Wright brothers to World War I, the second was World War II, the third was the Korean and Cold Wars and finally the last was filled with Vietnam and the years following. Literally hundreds of aircraft were on display, and I was in awe. My favorite was World War II because, like so many, I admire what Tom Brokaw called “the Greatest Generation.” Their commitment and sacrifice were and still is amazing. While war is never romantic, the sight of these brave men and women and their flying machines, stirred powerful emotions of a time gone by.

Well, after the museum, we did what everyone does…eat. Using our GPS, we navigated our way to a large shopping area and saw a restaurant called “Black Rock.” We asked someone and they assured us it was very good, but they also said we probably couldn’t get in. We decided to try anyway. Well, we could get in, but it was going take about 45 minutes. So, we added our names to the wait list and waited. Sure enough, about 45 minutes later, the text came, and we were in.

The place was packed and loud so were excited to see what all the uproar was about. Our server came to our table, and she explained what they are most famous for…a black rock. Here’s the deal. If you order steak, they bring it to your table…raw. They also bring a square chunk of black lava rock that is heated to—wait for it—755 degrees. The raw meat is sizzling in the middle of the rock, and you get to cook your own steak. You slice off a bite size piece of steak, lay it on the 755-degree rock in a puddle of melted garlic butter and in about 15 seconds for each side—you are ready to eat. It was awesome.

With a special creamy steak sauce for dipping, well, it really was just delicious. I know and you know the rock idea is a hook, a crowd getter but it was more. There was something special about slicing and cooking your meat on that super-heated rock. While the food tasted so good—the experience was more—much more. I think my man genes were set to high as I sliced a chunk of raw meat and cooked it for my wife. I felt like the hunter, gatherers of old. I could almost hear the wolves howling in the distance.

Now trust me. If they had brought that piece of meat already cooked, I would have said it was a pretty good steak, but the rock changed everything. The sound of sizzling meat changed everything. In other words, some things change everything and that was true that night, but it is truer every day, in every way, and everywhere—when that Rock is Jesus. Just like the rock changed the meal, the presence of the Rock of Ages in our lives makes all the difference in the world.

And get this—it had to be the rock. A small charcoal fire, nope. A propane gas burner, nope. An electric burner, nada. It was the rock, that 755-degree, meat sizzling, butter melting rock that changed it all. And I want you to know that it is the Rock of Ages that can burn away all the dross of sin that separates us from God. If you are willing to let Him, He wants, He waits to forgive and give you a fresh start. It is something that being good, that church, that religion just can’t do. It is a singular act of God and His grace that makes the difference. It is what caused the writer of Psalms to pen, “You are my rock and my fortress.”

So, if you ever see a restaurant named, “Black Rock” whip in an experience the cooking power of a 755-degree piece of black lava rock. And, if you find yourself down and out and out of luck, remember to look for the Rock of Ages. He is waiting to forgive you and call you His own. He is waiting to change your life forever. He’s waiting to whisper, “I’ve got this. Bro. Dewayne

Family, fear, forgiveness, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, loving others, prayer, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, USA

December 7th

Posted on December 7, 2022December 4, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” Mark 3:25

“December 7th. A day that will live in infinity.” Though it was before my time I know the story well. It was a beautiful morning in Pearl Harbor. Those who weren’t painting the ships or swabbing the decks of the powerful U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet were home enjoying a round of golf or a tropical breakfast. And then, at 7:55 in the morning local time, without warning or provocation, bombers, fighters and torpedo bombers of the Imperial Japanese Navy swept in. They began to systematically destroy the American fleet and its supporting aircraft. That morning thousands of sailors and civilians lost their lives and thousands more were wounded. Over eleven hundred sailors died instantly when a single bomb hit the ammunition magazine on the battleship Arizona.

In an hour and fifteen minutes the attack was over and the United States was drawn into a global war. The nation had long been divided over what role the United States should take in the war that raged in Europe. That was all settled when, after the attack, Japan declared war on America and Hitler as an ally of Japan did the same. Like it or not, the United States was embroiled in a war that would last for almost four years and cost the lives of 407,316 Americans with another 671,278 wounded. But by the grace of Almighty God, in the end, America and her Allies were victorious in defeating the tyranny of the fascist governments.

Thirty-eight percent of those who served were volunteers and sixty-one percent were drafted. The average enlisted person was paid $71.00 per month while the average officer was paid $203. Drafted or volunteer, officer or enlisted, they were all willing to put their lives on the line for the cause of freedom and the cause of defeating countries bent on oppressing those weaker than they. Many valuable lessons were learned during that time—lessons that we must not forget.

First, is the power of unity. Before the Pearl Harbor attack the nation was clearly divided over the war. After the attack, the nation pulled together on a unified front to protect and defend—first the United States, and second, the millions of innocent people being oppressed by Germany, Japan, and Italy. It is tragic that it took a Pearl Harbor to bring the nation together but if America had entered the war divided, the outcome would have been much different. Today, we need to understand that it is time to come together again. Jesus said that a house divided against itself cannot stand. Neither can families. Neither can churches. We must come together, or we will fall together.

Second, is the power of owning it. As in any national tragedy, the event happens and almost immediately the finger pointing begins. Pick the historical event and the pattern is sadly the name. Political parties and even ordinary, everyday people will use a tragedy to promote their cause. We have seen it on the national front. We have seen it on the local front. We have seen it in the churches. It is not a time to point fingers, but rather a time to rise to help solve what is broken. Eighty-one years ago today, December 7, America rose to the challenge. I wonder if we will have the wisdom to do the same today.

Last, is the power of wisdom. There is not much debate that storm clouds were gathering in the days leading up to December 7th. Some would say that there was blatant evidence that an attack was coming. Sadly, those warning signs were largely ignored, and the cost was horrendous. Today, right now, there is something we need to remember. There is one enemy, and it is not our neighbor, not our brother or sister in church, and not even the person who belongs to another political party. The enemy is Satan, who wants nothing more than to destroy us. Jesus said, “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.” It was true when He said it…it is true today. The second part of that verse is filled with hope. Jesus said, “I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.”

You see, God is for us. He is very aware of Satan’s tricks and schemes, and He wants us to be victorious over him. That is what Christmas and Easter were all about. God became flesh and lived among us and then ultimately and deliberately died on a Roman cross that all people, regardless of nationality, race, or economic station, could be forgiven and have eternal life. With the wisdom of God, we don’t have to have a “spiritual” Pearl Harbor. With God’s help we can come together. With God’s help we can be victorious.

You see, it’s not about religion. It is about a relationship with the God who made it all. And with the relationship comes hope, comes peace, comes forgiveness, comes unity. If we are wise enough to believe what God says, and act on what He teaches, our best days won’t be in the rearview mirror but rather ahead. So, this Christmas season, let the Prince of Peace bring His peace into your world. Rest in Him. He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne.

Family, gratitude, life, loving others, Military memories, prayer, priorities, Scripture, thankful, USA, Veteran's Day

A Penny and a Nickel

Posted on November 11, 2022November 1, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

This story has become my annual story for Veteran’s Day. It was a wonderful day that day and it spoke deeply into my heart. Be sure and thank each veteran you encounter especially on this day…the day we honor them.

I had never noticed it before. A couple of weeks ago my wife Judy and I visited the national battlefield at Dover, Tennessee. I was so impressed. Fort Donelson National Battlefield is a Civil War battle site sandwiched between the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers. The South had built two forts there for the purpose of controlling those two rivers. It was a major supply line for the South. Many of the original earthworks are still there. You can imagine the Union and Southern soldiers huddling down rising only to fire at one another.

One spot on the tour showed where the big Southern guns were mounted. In fact, many of them were still there. There were three on one side and seven on the other. The guns could hurl a 30-pound shell over a mile and were some of the deadliest weapons of the war. At that spot, an American Bald Eagle was perched in a large oak tree right on the bluff. It was as if he was watching over the sacredness of this hallowed ground. Men—both Union and Southern, shed their blood on these grounds. One side dying to preserve the Union and the other dying to tear it apart. After more than a few minutes the eagle took his leave and so did we.

The car tour then took us out of the park and down the road a mile or so. There we found more earthworks, more cannon and more ground stained with blood. Leaving there we headed down the road to the National Cemetery established after the battle. The Union soldiers won the day, but the cost was high on both sides. Judy and I parked the car and walked around the cemetery. There were hundreds of graves…all men who had fought for the Union. Sadly, the Confederate dead were dumped into mass graves and covered over. They remain that way today.

At the cemetery, there were many graves from the Civil War era but since it is still an active military cemetery, warriors from virtually all the wars are buried there. Judy and I saw graves from the World War I, World War 2, Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf Wars. We even saw one grave from what was called the Second Seminole War or the Florida War. Row upon row of graves, some older ones with only a last name and their assigned unit, lay silently giving testimony to their last full measure of devotion to their country. There was one more thing.

We noticed that laying on top of many of the headstones there were coins. They were mostly pennies with a sprinkling of silver coins also. I didn’t really know what they meant but I had an idea, and I was right. There is a tradition that honors men and women who served their country. You mainly see it in national cemeteries but also at others scattered throughout our Land. When you see a penny on top of the headstone of a veteran, it means that someone stopped and reflected on the soldier’s life and service. It is a form of remembrance. And, when a family member returns to the grave, they have the assurance that someone remembered and honored their loved one’s sacrifice and service.

If there was a silver coin, and back in the old days a nickel in particular, it meant the person who stopped by had a special relationship with the fallen soldier. They may have gone through basic training together or were assigned to the same unit. There has always been a special bond with men and women who fought together…who perhaps died together. It is a bond that lives on beyond death and those silver coins honored that bond.

The Bible is full of renowned, well known, verses but one that stands out is where Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” That is what those silver coins were saying. It was a silent testimony of loyalty one for another. This band of brothers was willing to die for the other…and many did. What an amazing story of love and commitment.

Today we honor the men and women of our great country who served or are actively serving in its armed forces. For 244 years brave soldiers have put their lives on the line. As the saying goes, “All who served gave some, but some gave all.” We should be incredibly grateful for both. As you journey through life today and you recognize a man or woman who was or is member of the armed forces, take the time to thank them for their service. The freedoms we enjoy came at great cost whether it was the ultimate sacrifice or the daily sacrifice of hardship or separation from family. Be sure and let them know you appreciate it. It is just the right thing to do. Oh, and don’t forget to thank the One who provides the ultimate freedom…Jesus Christ. Because of Him, we can rest…because of Him we can have the peace of knowing…He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne

Family, friends, gratitude, life, prayer, priorities, Scripture, Southern born, Trials, USA

Momma and Politics

Posted on November 3, 2022November 1, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” 1 John 5:4-5

He was running for county commissioner. A long time ago when I was about ten years old, I had my first and only encounter with political campaigns. Somehow, and I have no idea how, my Momma got involved with the campaign to elect a guy named Bill Basford as county commissioner. And, when Mom jumped in—she jumped in all the way. That meant a couple of things.

First, and totally embarrassing, was this thing they put on our car. We were pretty much not rich, in fact, I’m sure we weren’t even middle class. We drove a 1957 Plymouth and let’s just say 1957 was a long way in the rearview mirror. Anyway, back in those days if a person was running for office, they had these triangle shaped signs that people strapped to the top of their cars. Now if it had been a little triangle that wouldn’t have been nearly as embarrassing, but this thing belonged on the sands of Egypt with the rest of the Pyramids. It was HUGE. It loudly proclaimed, “BILL BASFORD FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER.” We would drive around and advertise for Bill.

That wasn’t all. We also had to go door to door asking people to vote for Bill. We covered our neighborhood like the plague of locusts that cleaned out Egypt. I am certain people saw us coming and quickly closed their blinds and pretended they weren’t home. It turns out that was just practice for when I became a preacher. By the way…I know you are in there. We also had a big supply of bumper stickers which we would gladly stick on your car. When you’re ten, you like to stick things on things, so I liked that part—a lot.

Well, election day came, and Momma waited for the big news. Either by television or by telephone we got the word that Bill had won, and they invited Momma to come downtown to the headquarters to celebrate. Like Ma and Pa Kettle we (as in Daddy, Momma, my two sisters and I) got in the 1957 Plymouth and off we went. I only remember a couple of things about the celebration. There was loud music, there was free food and there was a bar. My daddy went over, and I saw him get something to drink and I don’t think it was sweet tea. The reason I remember that is because if Daddy wasn’t a teetotaler, Momma was.

So that was it. Momma was excited because her guy won. She didn’t get a political appointment or anything, but we did have a bunch of bumper stickers leftover to stick on things. But the best part of all was that our guy won. Winning is always a good feeling. Everyone wants to be on the winning side. Every contest has winners and losers. Like the song says, “Some gotta win, some gotta lose. Good time Charlie’s got the blues. Well, your name might not be Charlie, but maybe you’ve got the blues. And I’m not talking about any election results.

If the truth be known, life can be pretty blue, can’t it? And sometimes, it is because we lose…our health, our job, our family, our house, well, lots of things. But I want to tell you something that is really important. There is Someone who never loses, and His name is Jesus. If it was an election…He would win every time. If it was a game…He would win every time. If it was a war…He would win every time. If it was a debate…yup, He would win every time. Do you want to know the best part? Keep reading.

Remember how mama got invited to the big celebration downtown? Well, if we are willing to place our faith and trust in Jesus and follow Him, two amazing things happen. First, because He wins, we win. In a way, when Bill Basford won—Momma won. And when we choose to follow Jesus, because He wins—we win too. The Bible says, “Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” Then, the party starts. Sometimes people think heaven is going to be one long boring church service. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is going to a celebration like no other…like a party without end. And while we won’t be the center of attention—that’s Jesus’ place—we will be guests of honor. How about that?

I don’t really know how things turned out for Bill Basford, but I suppose he was a good commissioner. I also know it made my Momma feel pretty special to be a part of his campaign. She felt included—we felt included. We may have driven an old 1957 Plymouth but on that night with Bill’s name on the top, it felt like a Cadillac. Jesus invites you to be a part of His campaign team too. He’s not running for anything—He is already King of Kings. But there’s one thing for sure, He loves to invite people to come along for the ride. He hopes, and so do I, that you will join Him. When this campaign is over, we are going to celebrate Him forever. Until then, He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne

Family, friends, gratitude, July 4, life, loving others, Military memories, priorities, Scripture, Southern born, sovereignty of God, thankful, travel, USA

July 4. 1972

Posted on July 4, 2022July 3, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

It was fifty years ago today. The summer of 1972 was unlike any other summer I had experienced. I had joined the Air Force and spent the summer at “camp” with about forty new friends. We shared one thing in common—we had taken an oath to “protect the constitution of the United States against all enemies…foreign and domestic.” We had also committed to obeying the orders of those appointed over us and at this point…that was everyone else but us. We were brand new, raw recruits who knew a lot about being a civilian and virtually nothing about being in the military. But we didn’t have to worry…our drill sergeant was taking care of that.

I arrived at Lackland Air Force Base in the early morning hours of June 13th…early as in about 2:00 am. This was intentional because the Air Force actually wanted you to be disorientated the first few days. I think it was supposed to make us more cooperative. Anyway, we quickly got into a routine sporting our new haircuts and green fatigue uniforms. They kept us going from before sunrise and put us to bed even before it was dark. That was ok too because we were wore out.

This was my first time away from home, but the schedule didn’t allow for home sickness. But all that changed one night in July. There wasn’t a lot of free time…whether it was a Tuesday, a Friday, or a Sunday…though they did allow time for church for anyone who wanted to go. Most of us wanted to go…not because we loved God but for a couple of hours, we could forget the grind of basic.

Back then the Air Force didn’t observe holidays either. Of course, the only one that occurred in my time in basic was—Independence Day. As I remember, we definitely did NOT get the day off, but I do think we got to do some extra marching…I think it was supposed to be patriotic. Anyway, it was soon time for lights out and then it happened. I was lying in my bunk; the skies had finally darkened, and I heard a familiar sound. It was the sound of exploding fireworks.

I eased out of bed and knelt down in front of the window. From there, I watched the fireworks display for the base explode and light up the sky. And as I watched, a wave of homesickness washed over me. I remembered all the times that we would go to downtown Jacksonville to the riverfront and watch the fireworks together as a family. I remembered the times we would go to a small neighborhood grocery store and sneak into the backroom where they sold illegal fireworks and load up. I remembered and as I did I knew that this was the first of many times that being a member of the military would mean separation…and sacrifice.

Before long the fireworks were over and I went back to my bunk and after too many minutes of loneliness, drifted off to sleep. The next morning it was back to business as usual. The summer of ’72 passed pretty quickly and before I knew it, I was done with basic and moved on to what was next…more training…and more new adventures. And what I discovered that night, kneeling at my window in basic, came true. There were many more days and holidays when family was far away. But also knew it was a small sacrifice to make to serve my country.

So today, be sure and remember those who are serving, who are sacrificing, that we can enjoy our freedoms. Remember freedom is never free and we should be thankful for those willing to make ours possible. Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends.” That is so, so true. Look, we all know America is far from perfect, but she is still the best country on the planet—remember that today too. And if you are one of those separated from family to serve, thank you and know that the One who died for you, loves you and will never leave you. No matter what you are facing today, He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne

Family, gratitude, life, loving others, Scripture, thankful, travel, USA, wisdom

Mountains or Monuments

Posted on June 20, 2022June 19, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Proverbs 29:18

It was on my bucket list. I confess…I am a pretty big fan of America. I mean, even with all of its warts, and there are plenty, with all its flaws, surely a bucket full, it is the best place to call home. Over the years I have visited over twenty-five countries—some in Europe, some in Asia and some in Africa. Some were affluent, some were poor, and some were somewhere in between. All had something to offer but none could match this land I call home. While some of my visits were brief, my wife Judy and I lived three years in Germany and the final word was…wait for it…home is better…there is and was no place like home.

I think the secret to learning to appreciate where you live is to learn to look for the good and not bad, the whole and not the broken. The way we look at things can vastly change how we experience things. A few days ago, I mentioned a quote from a movie that I had watched which, by the way, was based on a true story. The guy said, “There are two ways to live—either nothing is a miracle, or everything is a miracle.” He opted for the latter and I think I will too.

Last year, we were out west on a trip with part of our tribe. The main, but not only, destination was to see Mount Rushmore. I’ve seen a chunk of America, but I hadn’t seen that…and yes, it was on my bucket list. So, the day came. As we drove toward the monument, suddenly, around a curve we were face to face, if you will, with Washington, Roosevelt, Jefferson and Lincoln and it was amazing. We parked the car and frankly, the closer we got, the more amazing it became.

This great tribute to America (no, it wasn’t just a tribute to four men) took over fourteen years to build. As you keep in mind it was about ninety years ago, you begin to appreciate the vision, work, and skill that it took to turn a mountain into a monument. I was amazed to learn that many of the workers, who often had 12 hours days, were paid about $14 dollars…a week. Those were hard times, and they were grateful to have a job. But for many…the job became a passion…a mission…a cause to believe in.

Somewhere along the journey, they stopped seeing a mountain and began to see presidents. Somewhere along the journey they began to see what Gutzon Borglum saw. While the project wasn’t his idea (that belongs to a guy named Doane Robinson) he was the one that chose that mountain. The quality of the stone led him there and, honestly, where others saw just a mountain, he saw presidents. He.Saw.Presidents.

So, perhaps, just perhaps, it does matter what we see around us. Perhaps if we choose to see miracles…or like Borglum to see monuments where others see just a block of stone, perhaps we can help make this world a better place. Perhaps our lives, regardless of our messy circumstances, will take on a deeper meaning and a deeper purpose. Perhaps if we learn that it is not about us but about others…things will change…for the better.

One of the writers in the Old Testament part of the Bible said that when people don’t have a vision, when they choose to see desolation rather than miracles, well, they perish. It is true individually and it is true corporately. If we are going to see a better world, two things need to happen. First, we need to learn not to just see a mountain but what that mountain can become. Secondly, and this one is for God followers, we need to believe again that with God nothing is impossible. As we stand on the edge of the new normalcy, with that stinking COVID in the rearview mirror, let’s choose to believe again. And why stop there? Why don’t we determine to see presidents where others see mountains and believe that “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne

Family, food, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, love, loving others, Military memories, prayer, Scripture, Southern born, thankful, travel, USA

Home is Better

Posted on June 13, 2022June 9, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” And the One sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:4-5

Who would have known? In 1977, my wife and I packed up our stuff and moved to Germany. It wasn’t a sudden urge we had—it was courtesy of the Air Force. When we had been married about seven months, we received an assignment to move to Europe. We were excited about moving there, but also realized Germany was 4,657 miles from everything that was familiar to us. We were off on a great adventure, without cell phones or internet!

We loved it. Our part of Germany was filled with history and beautiful landscapes. Rich forests and small hills and mountains framed every view. And honestly, it was a little like home. While it was true that the local folks spoke a different language, there was enough English sprinkled around that we were able to get by. We even learned a little (and I do mean a little) German to help. We drove our cars on the right side of the road, just like home (unlike the Brits), we could drink the water just like home, we had stores kinda like home, and we even had a church…just like home. But it wasn’t…home.

Throughout the three years we were there, we would celebrate when it came time for friends to “ship” back to the United States. Our church even had a special song titled, “Goodbye, World, Goodbye” that we sang every time someone left to go back to the states. They were bitter-sweet moments. We would miss them, but we knew where they were going. They were going home.

There was one thing that we would do, every once in a while, to remind us of home. It might seem strange, but it wasn’t to us. Germany was a place of great food but once again…it wasn’t home. I found out that not many Germans eat grits. Imagine that. But they did share one thing that was purely American—McDonald’s. Located downtown in a large city, not too far from where we lived, was a McDonald’s very much like ours back home. And when we could afford it, which wasn’t often, we would go and have a taste of home. Each bite of the burgers and fries said, “Remember home.” Each bite said, “This place is good but remember, it’s not home.”

Well, one day it was our turn to go…home. It was our turn to hear, “Goodbye, World, Goodbye” and know it was for us. It was our turn to leave there and go home and as soon as we were home, we knew instantly that while “there” was very good—it wasn’t home. Home was better. Home was home.

Jesus followers need to remember that very important truth—Home is better—Home is home. This world is good. We enjoy life with friends and family, and there is a McDonald’s on every corner. But what used to remind us of home now reminds us that we are not there…yet. Even with all its warts and imperfections, God has done a great job providing us a temporary location to live out our days, but remember, Home is going to be—better. The Bible tells me that Heaven is a place where there is no more pain, suffering, sickness, or sorrow. No hospitals, no nursing homes, and no funeral homes. Simply put—the former things are gone, and everything will be new. Home will be better.

I know I speak for Judy too when I say that our time in Germany was three of our favorite years together. I also know I speak for her when I say home was, and home is, better. Life here is good but one day, it will be my turn, your turn, to find out that Home is better. When it came time to leave Germany and go home, the Air Force paid for our ticket and I am glad to let you know that our ticket to Home is paid for too—by God’s Son, Jesus Christ. All we must do is accept it and when we do—life here gets better and Home is thrown in. When we accept it, we find out that God loves to give us a “McDonald’s” or two, here and there, just to remind us of Home…to remind us that till we get there, He is with us and that at every turn, “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne