Air Force – Grits with Grace

Family, fear, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, Military memories, prayer, priorities, Scripture, Southern born, sovereignty of God, thankful, travel, Trials, wisdom

The Phone Call

Posted on March 30, 2023March 29, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don’t lean into your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

It was a phone call that was to change my life. It was from my brother-in-law’s brother. We were fringe friends, and he had an idea. We were both seniors in high school and both really didn’t have plans for after graduation. So, he says, “Hey Dewayne. Why don’t we join the Air Force together? They have the buddy plan. We can attend basic training together and go to our first duty station together. We can be buds.” Well, I didn’t have any better ideas and I liked the idea of serving my country and I was always kinda adventurous so, “Why not?” I went down and signed up singing, “Off we go into the wild blue yonder.” We were set. Or not.

After I went down to sign up, I called my brother-in-law’s brother and said, “Have you signed up yet?” Silence. He then told me that he had changed his mind. We were no longer buds. Well, regardless, I was going into the Air Force. That much was decided. What wasn’t decided was what to do in the Air Force. They have this test they give you to decide what best suits your talents and abilities. I took the test. When the recruiter gave me the results he was smiling.

“Well, Dewayne, looks like you are strong in the administrative field.” “What?” I said. “Administration.” he said.

He tried to make it sound really important, but he was really saying I was going to be a secretary. Now this was not cool. My dad was a jet engine mechanic. One brother had served in the Army and I’m not sure what he did but it wasn’t typing. Another brother who joined the Air Force saved the world—or at least that’s what he told me. My other brother joined the Coast Guard—saving lives and stuff. Me? Well, I get to be a secretary.

So anyway, I kept my word and joined the Air Force. I even realized that being a 702X0, (that is the official designation for an administrative specialist), was not too bad. When guys were standing in the rain guarding planes I was in a nice, warm office. There were always a few unkind jokes about 702X0 guys but when those guys wanted their leave papers processed, the joke was on them. Yup, it was totally unexpected but it turned out the Air Force was right. I was in my groove.

Now for the best part of the story. Later I met my wife Judy and we decided to make the Air Force a career. Secretary or not, she thought I was rather dashing even if I did type instead of fly a plane. The days and years went by and then I heard a whisper—the God kind. It said something about pastoring and preaching. I told the Whisperer that I was gonna stay in the Air Force and we could talk later. Another year passed and the Whisperer kept whispering and finally I said, “Yes.” So, after twelve years I left the Air Force and walked from one office…and right into another. Then it hit me like a ton of bricks.

I had been in school for twelve years. I suddenly realized that God had been grooming me for the pastorate all along. Can you imagine if I had done my thing and become a mechanic and then walked into the pastorate where working on jet engines didn’t help you write sermons? Because of God’s sovereignty and wisdom, I left one office where I typed, wrote, researched, supervised, filed and zillion other things and walked right into another where almost all those skills were needed. Can someone say, “Amazing?”

So here I am 40 years into my calling as a pastor sitting at a computer and writing. It all happened because the Whisperer whispered and for once I had the common sense to figure out He was a lot smarter than I was. Proverbs 3:5-6 has been a powerful force in my life, all my life. It says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don’t lean into your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” I know from personal experience that is true.

I haven’t always gotten it right. I haven’t always listened to the Whisperer, trusted Him totally or not leaned into my own understanding. But when I did, I have always had better outcomes and fewer regrets. And do you know what? Even in this crazy new world, even in today’s circumstances, He’s still got a plan. This isn’t a world gone mad or to use my favorite word, “crazy.” This is a world under the watchful eye and caring heart of our God. And He is crazy about us. So, go ahead and surrender to Him—rest in Him. 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

friends, Grace, gratitude, life, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, Trials

Too Much Spaghetti

Posted on March 14, 2023March 13, 2023 by Dewayne Taylor

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.

Proverbs 17:22

I cooked way too much spaghetti. Well, I guess it is all official. Things are back to normal. You see, I am a pastor/teacher/preacher. That means I have the privilege of serving with a bunch of people in a church and have the opportunity to share truth from the Bible…sometimes several times a week. It is something that I truly enjoy. When I am sharing something and see the expression on someone’s face change, as if to say, “I get it,” well, it doesn’t get much better than that.

Actually, pastoring is my second career. I spend twelve years in the Air Force and just loved it and then God came up with another idea. I separated from the Air Force and became a pastor. That was 40 years ago. Wow…that sounds like a long time but really it seems like yesterday. When I first starting preaching, my sermons were like 23 minutes long and sometimes that seemed like an eternity…for me and probably for them. Over the years, things have gotten, well, longer. Someone once said, “The longer you preach, the longer you preach.” I believe I can testify to that.

So, before the COVID thing happened, my sermons ran 40-45 minutes. People were kind and most were even grateful for the message but there’s another old saying that says, “Never speak longer than the audience’s seat can bear.” Well, let’s just same I probably reached and exceeded that limit. So, when COVID came along and we were on Facebook only, I made a concerted effort to preach a little shorter…usually about 35 minutes. I was so proud of myself…and then…one day, happened.

One day, I cooked too much spaghetti. Now that is “code” that I simply prepared too much material. Even before Sunday, I had cut about 20 percent of the material and I thought that would do it. It didn’t. The bottom line is that I preached, gulp, 45 minutes. Oh my. I don’t think I chased too many rabbits—it was just too much spaghetti. At the end of the service, I told the folks that I appreciated their patience. They are such a gracious group of people. I also smiled and told them that it was a great sign that things were definitely back to normal.

I always greet the people as they leave after the service, and something happened that particular day that still has me smiling. The mother of one of our members was in the service. I know her and well, she is a friend and a very special lady. Her husband had passed away and I was privileged to have a part in his service. As she shook my hand, she shared that because of having to care for her husband and for health reasons she hadn’t been in church for several years. Then she explained how each week she was sure to listen to our service, and me, on the radio. I smiled and said how grateful I was. And then she said, “You know, I sure enjoyed today but you know, at home, I can just turn the radio off when I am ready.” I laughed, she laughed, and everyone who was standing in earshot did too. It was a precious moment, and it made my day.

This story isn’t about sermons, long or short, but rather it is about the fact that life is back…not totally normal, but I believe something better than what it was. I’ve said it so many times, it won’t be the same and in some ways that is not bad. In fact, in some ways, it is just better. I believe the COVID experience has taught us to love God better and love people better. I believe the COVID year has taught us to appreciate the small things in life that make life better.

So, there you go. This week my goal is to preach a little shorter and laugh a little more. After all the Bible tells us that a cheerful heart is good medicine and I just tend to believe what it says. We can laugh, even in our hot mess world, because ultimately, we are certain of one thing—He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne

Christmas, Family, friends, gratitude, Holidays, life, loving others, Military memories, Scripture, thankful, travel

Memory Trees

Posted on December 27, 2022December 26, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy.” Psalm 30:11

Just a heads up. Christmas trees. They all have their own time to be setup. They all have their own design and style. They all have their time when they are trashed or stowed. There is a common denominator. Those three things are determined by the creators, the admirers of the trees. That is what makes every tree special. At our house, we do something just a bit different. We have four trees that make a small, enchanted forest of sorts. The tallest is about six foot and the smallest is about 30 inches. It was an idea that I came up with several years ago and we love it. They are decorated with a wide variety of ornaments and keepsakes from over the decades…and we love that too.

On one tree, we have a Styrofoam snowman’s head that was made by my sister when she was in the third grade…and trust me…that was a really, long time ago. There is a glitter covered cross from when my wife Judy was in the fourth grade. Of course, there are three “baby’s first Christmas” ornaments—one for each of our daughters. There is a 3×5 index card with two buttons on it. Written, by my oldest granddaughter when she was about 5 years old, is her name over one button and Papa written over the other. It is priceless. We were buddies…we are buddies. And on and on it goes…families, friends, and special memories all gathered in one place.

So, by now you are wondering, “Why are you writing about Christmas trees after Christmas has passed?” It’s a bit of a story. When we were in Germany in 1979, we lived in base housing. They were large, four-story apartment buildings, with three stairwells—all full of military families. We were on the top floor, and we had one neighbor across the hall, and they had a phone in their home. One year, near Easter, I needed to use the phone, so I knocked on the door and his wife came to the door. I asked if I could use their phone and she was kind enough to say yes.

As I entered their apartment, I noticed one thing right away. Sitting in their living room was their Christmas tree in all its splendor. Now, keep in mind it was right before Easter. I made my call and just had to ask the obvious question. I politely said, “So why do you still have your Christmas tree up?” And, without missing a beat, she said, “It makes me happy.” I never forgot that simple answer and the great truth it taught me. It.Makes.Me.Happy.

I love the fact that this sweet lady decided to keep her tree up…not based on popular opinion, not on what the masses did, or what was “normal.” She decided based on what was good for her—for her mental health. I didn’t think her odd at all—rather, I thought her strong and wise. I wonder how many decisions we make every day that are not based on what may be good for us but based on what the Smith’s or Jones’ might think of us? I wonder how many things we wear, or eat, or watch, or do, that are based on the opinion of others? I wonder how many of our faith decisions are based on the same. Church—no church. Kindness—no kindness. Love—no love. Jesus—no Jesus. Hmmmm. I just wonder.

One year we decided to leave our trees up for several weeks after Christmas and it was ok. They had transformed from Christmas trees to memory trees. Maybe, perhaps we will do that again this year. So, if you drive by 217 you might see a small, enchanted forest in our front bay window. It will be four trees starting at about six feet tall and going down to 30 inches. If you could get close enough, you would see the trees covered with special ornaments—and almost everyone would represent a special memory or event. And why will they be there? Well, it might just be a reminder that we have so much to be thankful for.

If we do leave our trees up, or at least until we take them down, we will drink coffee and do our Jesus things like reading the Bible or praying and occasionally we will look up and be happy—happy for all the blessings that God has sent our way. Someone writing about God in His Book said that God had turned their mourning into joyful dancing. He had taken away their clothes of mourning and clothed them with joy. I couldn’t agree more. Even in these different days, these different months, and years, we will have happy moments. We will pause and thank God that in the past He always showed up and today and all the today’s yet to come He will do it again. After all, 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, fear, forgiveness, friends, Grace, gratitude, life, Military memories, prayer, Scripture, Southern born, thankful, Trials

No Excuse

Posted on October 6, 2022October 5, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

The Spirit is the One who gives life. The flesh doesn’t help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.” John 6:63

“Breach your weapons, lay them on the ground and put your hands on your head.” Fifteen words I didn’t think I would ever hear. As I’ve said before I was raised in Jacksonville, Florida. We lived out in the country and would often go hunting not too far from my home. We would also go shooting. What is shooting? Well, that is when you go somewhere and just waste ammunition. There was an old dump about four miles from my house and that was a favorite place to go shoot. There was an abundance of old bottles and cans there just waiting to give up the ghost.

When I was about nineteen, and in the Air Force, a couple of friends (who were in the Navy) decided to go shooting. We got in our cars and went to the old dump and preceded to start what sounded like World War III. We had rifles and shotguns, and we were blasting away. Cans were flying and bottles were shattering and then without trying we all happened to empty our guns at the same time. There was a moment of silence and then we heard it.

It was that static noise when someone mashes the button on a public address system before beginning to speak. It was then that we heard those fifteen words—which I still remember to this day even though it was 48 years ago, “Breach your weapons, lay them on the ground and put your hands on your head.” Ok, two things almost happened at that moment. I almost died and I almost lost bladder control. I was scared to death. I had only been pulled over by the police once and I had never been arrested. I was certain that the Air Force would not like the fact that one of their ambassadors was arrested…especially on weapons charges.

So, you have to be wondering, “What in the world was going? Didn’t you know better?” And the answer is “No.” You see, Jacksonville and Duval County had merged into one making it the largest city in the United States. That also meant that all the laws that applied to the city now applied to the county. Well, since it was against the law to discharge a weapon in the city limits, which now included the old dump, we were in deep weeds. You can imagine we did some tall explaining to the police officer. I am sure it included an appropriate amount of praying, begging, and pleading. I imagine it also included the “we are serving our country” card too.

Well, somehow, we got off the hook. I’m sure I explained that I was raised in the area and had gone shooting there a lot. I’m also sure I explained that we didn’t know about the law being changed. I’m also sure he said ignorance of the law was no excuse and made sure we understood that it had better never happen again. And do you know what? It didn’t. As far as my buddies and I were concerned, the old dump was safe and sound. At least this part of the Air Force and Navy was done.

I never forgot that lesson about ignorance of the law being no excuse. When I drive, and I am pretty much a rule follower, if I don’t know the speed limit, I settle at a speed that I know should be safely below what might be posted. I found out one time (and I’ll write about that another time) that it costs to break the law. And sometimes it can be pricey. That is true for man’s law, but it is also true for God’s laws.

You see, at one time or another, we have all broken one or more and probably many of God’s laws. We are just a rebellious bunch and there really is no excuse. We just sorta, kinda, like breaking laws. The Bible even says that. But here’s the deal—we forget one thing about laws. Generally speaking, laws are there for a reason—our protection. There is a reason why the speed limit isn’t 120 mph. There is a reason why you should wear your seatbelt. There is a reason why you shouldn’t jump from a cliff that says, “rocks below.” They are all there to keep you within the guardrails of life. I know, we think laws are there to make us miserable, and maybe that is true for the laws of man. But when it comes to God—well, obeying His laws means less regrets and fewer consequences. It means a better life.

Well, if you happen to be traveling through Duval County in Northeast Florida and you have the urge to go shooting…you might try a different county. Unless they changed their mind, it is still against the law. And if you find yourself being lured toward some moral disaster and away from what God says is right—breach your weapon, lay it on the ground and raise your hands in surrender. Not to a policeman, but to the God who loves you enough to help you get through life—with less regrets and fewer consequences. It might seem hard but if you choose to rest in Him, you will find out that all things are possible. Yup…He’s got that too. Bro. Dewayne

Family, forgiveness, friends, Grace, life, loving others, prayer, Scripture, Trials

Speak No Evil

Posted on September 16, 2022September 15, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” John 8:10-11

It’s gonna happen…it just should not happen there. Life is filled with bumps and bruises. They’re gonna happen like it or not but sometimes they are made worse by the timing and location. A flat tire is never fun but take that same flat tire and let it happen on a rainy Monday on the way to an interview for a new job and it is just worse. Your car breaking down is just a bad deal but when it happens out in the middle of nowhere and with no cellphone service…well, your day just went south.

I once experienced something that well, it just shouldn’t have happened but where it happened and how it happened just made it worse. It was a Sunday morning in South Georgia and like any other Sunday morning I was in church. I went to church for several reasons…like it was the right thing to do, I thought it might make God happy and usually I enjoyed it. On this particular day…well, let’s just say I had that proverbial flat tire on a rainy Monday out in the middle of nowhere. The story goes like this.

Ever since I was a kid I liked to sing, and people said they enjoyed it. So, I was occasionally asked to sing at church. On this particular Sunday morning I was asked to sing. Now there is something you need to know before we go any further. You see, the church I attended was strict with certain things and one of those things was that guys should not have hair over their ears. That was a big no, no. And believe it or not, even though I was in the Air Force I had found a way to have hair over my ears. It involved “Dippity-do” but that’s another story.

Well, that Sunday was my time to sing. I went to the stage and did the very best I could to sing for Jesus. With my “hair over my ears” waving in the wind I went up and I came down. I was glad to sing but was also glad it was over. Well, it wasn’t. Because that Sunday we had a special speaker. And because of what happened, I remember him very, very, well. He stepped behind the pulpit, and I got the surprise of my young life. I was surprised because what he said was like a dagger in my heart. Here’s what he said.

With his deep and authoritative voice, in front of the entire church, he said, “Young man, if I had hair like yours, I would be ashamed to stand up and sing for Jesus.” I was shocked. I was hurt. I was mortally embarrassed. Not because of my hair, not because I had caused Jesus to frown (which I didn’t) but because this man who represented God had put me on trial, judged me, and sentenced me. Honestly, it’s a miracle I didn’t walk out and keep right on walking.

Like I said, things like this happen but they should never, ever happen in church. We wonder why people don’t want to come to church and unfortunately too often it is things like this. You see, church should be a safe place…a loving place. Church should be a place not for perfect people (because there aren’t any) but for forgiven people. Church should be a grace place and not a place to judge and throw rocks. Church should be a place where people see Jesus everywhere…in the lives of everyone.

I love the fact that the people who flocked to Jesus were the most broken in the community. They liked Him and He loved them. He was perfectly comfortable with sitting down with the worse sinner in town and having lunch. Trust me, that drove the religious people crazy. They said some very nasty things about Jesus because of that but the truth is…Jesus came to rescue the lost, the broken…people like me and you.

Well, the good news is I survived that Sunday morning, but it left a scar that remains to this day. My wife reminded me that my pastor came up afterwards and apologized. I’m glad he did. We need to have the courage to speak up when a wrong occurs…Jesus would. I can never get enough of the story in the Bible about the woman taken in adultery. The rock throwers wanted to kill her but instead Jesus loved and forgave her. I like that. A lot. So, if you find yourself wounded by a rock chucker just remember Jesus loves you…even if someone else doesn’t. And remember, no matter what, “He’s got this.” Bro. Dewayne

Family, fear, Grace, gratitude, life, love, loving others, Military memories, prayer, priorities, Scripture, Southern born, sovereignty of God, thankful, Trials

Daddy’s Heart Attack

Posted on June 27, 2022June 26, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Thanks, Dad…for the heart attack. It was back in 1976, June 26th to be specific, that I married Judy Allen. She was a Georgia peach that was quite the catch. I met her when I walked into a strange, new church on a Wednesday night. I entered the side door and boom—there she was. Standing in a circle of ordinary young ladies, this young lady was anything but. Then, there was a phone call, a date and well, here we are forty-six years…she is still quite the catch, we are still in love, and we are still grateful for a God who has a plan.

I was talking with Judy the other day and said, “What if we had never met?” I honestly cannot fathom my life without her…but what if? It was really a strange set of circumstances that got us together. I was in the Air Force and my Daddy had a pretty major heart attack while I was home on leave. It sure changed our Christmas plans, but it also changed my life. My Momma, and don’t ask me how since this was way before the internet and smart phones, found out through the Red Cross that the Air Force would sometimes grant a “humanitarian reassignment” to airmen to the base nearest their home. The conditions were strict, and the odds were long, but we (Momma and I) decided we should give it a shot.

It required all kinds of statements from the doctors and a bunch of other stuff that I don’t even remember. At the time I was stationed at Minot AFB in North Dakota and trust me that is a long way from home. Anyway, we applied and then one day I received a call from Base Personnel letting me know that my request had been approved and I was being reassigned to Moody AFB in Valdosta, Georgia. Soon, it was so long Minot and hello Moody. I arrived at my new base in April of 1973. I would drive home every weekend (about two hours) to see family and friends and come back Sunday evening.

Gratefully, God allowed my Daddy to live till midsummer of the next year when He decided heaven was better than here. Of course, his leaving changed everything. I think my Momma went to stay with one of my brothers or sisters for a while and suddenly there wasn’t as much reason to go home. I was a regular church goer, but it really wasn’t my desire to go to church that Wednesday night as much as it was…boredom. Valdosta wasn’t a big town and Moody wasn’t a big airbase, so I just needed something to do. And, as they say, the rest is history.

Which leads to my opening line…Daddy’s heart attack. If it hadn’t had been for that and my Momma’s persistence, well, I would have stayed in Minot and probably froze to death. Smile. I would have never met Judy, there would not have been our three precious daughters and hence no eight grandchildren. And, honestly, I probably wouldn’t be pastoring and wouldn’t be writing this today. But God is a God of infinite details and design. He tells us in the Bible that every day of our lives is planned before a single one of them is lived. I like that…a lot.

He also teaches us that for those who love Him and are called by Him, He can take anything and everything and bring good out of it. No, not everything is good…not even close and that isn’t what He said. He said He can bring good and in the case of my Daddy’s heart attack, my life path is part of that good. Have you ever thought of life that way? Can you think of a situation where God did that for you? I bet you can. You see, God is good, God is faithful, and God can be trusted.

One day I will see my Daddy again…in heaven. I’ll probably chat with him and ask if he ever thought about the good that God brought about because of his heart attack. And then, well, I’ll tell him all about Judy (if she isn’t there yet) and his great grandkids. It’s gonna be a great reunion. Till then, I hope I remember to trust my heavenly Dearest Daddy each day, and know that no matter what, no matter how big…He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne

Family, friends, Grace, gratitude, Holidays, life, love, loving others, Memorial Day, Military memories, prayer, Scripture, sovereignty of God, thankful, travel, Trials

Heroes

Posted on May 30, 2022May 29, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

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

There are some Grits’ stories that I just can’t let go of. Today is Memorial Day…the day we honor all those who gave their lives for our freedom. This special day is so close to my heart and so is this story. I hope you will enjoy it now and probably each Memorial Day in the years to come. God bless you and God bless America.

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 with the Air Force 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 often. 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, so 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 and He walks with you throughout life. 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

Learn more about Luxembourg here: Luxembourg American Cemetery | American Battle Monuments Commission (abmc.gov)

Family, friends, gratitude, Holidays, Integrity, life, love, loving others, Memorial Day, Military memories, prayer, priorities, Scripture, thankful, USA

Memorial and More

Posted on May 27, 2022May 26, 2022 by Dewayne Taylor

Once you were alienated and hostile in your minds expressed in your evil actions. But now He has reconciled you by His physical body through His death, to present you holy, faultless, and blameless before Him.” Colossians 1:21-22

It was a moment I will probably never forget. My wife and I love adventures. We look for ways to do things on a limited budget and we’ve actually gotten pretty good at it. A few years back we discovered we could take a train from Carbondale to Chicago, stay downtown at a nice hotel for a couple of nights and enjoy whatever was happening around us…all on a shoestring budget. We would usually go around Memorial Day or the Fourth of July. It was pretty awesome.

Several years ago we went the week of the 4th. We grabbed a very nice hotel room and managed to snag a room that literally faced the fireworks display. It was awesome. At Millennium Park they have these incredible free outdoor concerts. Thousands of people from all walks of life gather on the large lawn to listen. Because it is the 4th, they share a lot of patriotic music. They usually have a section where they honor the veterans by asking them to stand when the theme for their branch of the service is played.

I am a veteran. I served in the United States Air Force for 12 years and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. And that’s the problem. You see, because it was so rewarding, I always felt awkward standing to be honored because I felt like I received so much more than I gave. So that night, I knew that part of the concert was coming, and I was dreading it. I knew that Judy would urge me to stand, I would say no, and she would give me the look. Again. But that night, for some reason, something changed.

It was time. The stirring songs from each branch of the service began playing. Soon, the Air Force theme was playing. I looked at Judy and said, “I’m going to stand just for you.” As I stood something happened. First, I saw others standing that had served in the Air Force and I felt community…I stopped feeling apart and instead felt a part—a part of the family. But what happened next was amazing.

There was a mother with a couple of young boys sitting about eight or ten feet from me. The younger of her sons, probably seven or eight, looked at me and said this, “Mom, is he a hero?” And I watched and listened as she said, “Yes. He served our country so that we can be free.” Then she turned to me and mouthed the words, “Thank you for serving.” Well, that was the highlight of the trip for me, and it was the day an unexplainable wall fell.

I am certain that I do not deserve the title hero. The men and women with crosses over their graves in all the national cemeteries deserve that. The warriors who came back from the various wars and conflicts bearing the physical and emotional scars of war deserve that. But the one thing that I realized that night was that we should be thankful for our freedom. We can and should honor each person who served for their willingness and sacrifice.

I’m still shy about standing at Veteran’s Day events. I still feel awkward at concerts when veterans are asked to stand. But it’s not because I’m ashamed to say I served. No, it is because I received more than I could ever give back. I was privileged to wear the uniform of my country. And that is pretty awesome. But wait. There’s more.

As I write this story another one is stirring in my heart. It flashed in my mind that this isn’t the only time, the only circumstance, that makes me feel this way. It is also my faith in God. That day when I followed Christ, I also received more than I could ever give back. That day I was welcomed into the family of a God who loved me enough to give His Son to a Roman cross. Paul in the Bible tells us that we went from being alienated and hostile toward God to being able to call Him Father. Jesus caused my billion failures to disappear so He could present me faultless and blameless to His Father.

We all need heroes. This Memorial Day would you take the time to remember those who bled and died that we could be free? Would you take your kids to the cemetery for your community’s Memorial Day service? I hope that you will. But I also hope you will pause and thank the Hero of Heaven for sacrificing His life so that people like you and me can be truly free. And finally, next time you have the opportunity to stand not as a hero but because of the One, stand proudly and thank Him. Thank Him that you can rest in Him. Thank you because He’s got this. Bro. Dewayne