JoJo 17.9: Summer of 1976 Conclusion

"What's for supper, Dear?" Dan yelled as he and JoJo came in the house.
It was 6:10 and Alice and Remi had been back home for about 20 minutes. Alice was fixing something that smelled good!
Before she could answer Dan, JoJo let out an, "OW!"
Alice immediately turn her attention to her 'Baby.'
"Are you OK, Jo?"
"Ha! Yea, Mom. Dad's knuckleball was moving today! I took a hit to the foot. No biggie."
After Alice chided Dan for laughing, she said, "Dan, we are having spaghetti, and you are on restriction for hitting JoJo."
"Aw, Honey! The boy needs to learn how to catch better."
Alice laughed. "JoJo, should we allow your father to eat supper with us?"
"Sure Mom. Let's wait for him to really mess up to get on Food Rations!"
"Enough about that you two. Alice, how were the girls?"
"Samantha and Jane are dog-tired. But, Trudy is feeling much better."
"Praise the Lord!!!"
"You can say that again!" Alice made the mistake of giving her smarty pants husband an opening.
"Praise the Lord!!!"
"Dan! You can not say 'Praise the Lord' too many times!"

JoJo went to bed about midnight. As usual he got up at noon. Did chores Dan left him. Watched TV. And, played baseball at the SRD. This was the first year JoJo had ever made an All-Star team. He was really a good hitter, but he stunk in right field. JoJo had always played infield, and somehow judging the distance of a fly ball was not his best asset. The team stunk! They managed to win a few games, but the season ended faster than the team would have liked.

Meanwhile, Samantha's family was doing great! Thanks to Alice and her Bible Study Group, there was food brought each week while Trudy healed up. Jane was beside herself!
"Alice, I am thankful--first, to God. And, then to you, your family, and your church group! Would you mind if I started going to your church?"
Jane exclaimed, "Noooo! I don't mind. I will come pick you up this Sunday at 9:30."
However, Trudy--while thankful for all Alice and the church ladies had done--wanted no part of church. Alice told Jane that some people take a little longer to come to God, and they would be praying for her.

Remi went to every camp imaginable! Canoe Camp, Softball Camp, 2 different Church Camps, and Scout Camp.

Dan had learned a valuable lesson about spending time with the family. He attended the children's games and performances. Dan also spent more time at home. He stilled played golf, but not at the expense of his family.

It seemed sudden, but it was Friday, September 3rd. It was the first day of school.
JoJo said, "I really don't know why we go to school for ONE day, then get a holiday the following Monday!"
Whether JoJo liked it or not---and he didn't, he and the other students found themselves back in school. My oh my how a year can change things. JoJo walked through the doors on 9-3-76 of Smallville High School as a Sophomore with a girlfriend. He and Tommy had already decided they were going to give the Freshman the 'Business.' After all, it was SHS tradition!

JoJo 17.8; Summer of 1976; Part Eight; A Father and Son Game of Catch

At 5:00, Dan wheeled in the driveway. Alice had taken supper to Samantha and her family, and had not made it back home. JoJo did not even wait for his Daddy to come in the house. He ran out with the gloves and ball for a game of catch.
Dan said, "Can I change my clothes?"
"No Sir! I am ready to roll!"
Dan laughed and responded, "At least let me take off my tie!"
"Fair enough."
This is where the two Smith men communicated...Throwing the baseball.

"JoJo, we're off the record. No running involved. Can you recite Proverbs 21:24 to me right now."
"Off the record---even if there was running involved, here goes: Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with boundless arrogance."
"That's my boy!"
"Dad, the words that are about to come out of my mouth are no indication of further issues that may occur in life. Agreed?"
"Agreed..."
"I am glad you gave the punishment. I was a real jerk. I didn't get it until I memorized the verse and God dealt with my heart."
The two continued to throw and think. For about 90 seconds, neither of the guys spoke.
Finally...."Son, would you elaborate?"
"Yessir, the words seemed to go into my heart. I felt bad about the way I treated Runt and Sydney. So, I called them and apologized."
"Well that took some humility."
"Yessir."
"I am so proud of you, JoJo. This is a major step in becoming a man."
"Honestly, I am happy to be here, throwing the baseball with my dad."
"Thanks Son! Am I missing something?"
"Dad, after listening to Samantha tell me about her mom's story. Plus, after watching some of my friends whose Dads are not around, has made me realize that I am blessed."
Dan kept throwing. He knew if he talked that he would cry---right in front of JoJo. And, that had NEVER happened. After a while, Dan got it together.
"JoJo, the words you just spoke, made everything about our relationship--good and bad---worth it."
"Thanks, Dad."
"Let's don't get too mushy. See if you can catch my knuckle ball."
"I'll try."
JoJo had no chance! Dan's knuckle ball was mean. It dropped as it reached JoJo. His stab of an effort to catch it was pathetic, and the ball hit him in the foot.

JoJo 17.7; Summer of 1976; Part Seven; Round Two of Fun

"O..o..OK, Mom." JoJo was out of breath. "I finished the three miles."
"Not bad, JoJo. You did it in 42 minutes. Your father's instructions are as follows:
1. Take a shower
2. Eat something
3. Call him.
PS Do this within 30 minutes."
"Really? Are you going to help me with lunch, Ma?"
"Yes, Silly! I will have a BLT sandwich, fries, and banana pudding. Now, go clean up."
"What time is it?"
"12:14"

After JoJo showered and ate lunch, the time was 12:39.
"Dad, I am ready for Round Two to begin."
"Let's see. It is 12:40. I will call you back in one hour...GO."

JoJo read the verse (Proverbs 21:24) three times. Then, he tried to say it aloud.
"Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with...."
JoJo read the verse 3 more times.
"Mockers are proud and haughty: they act with boundless arrogance."
JoJo said it again.
"Mockers are proud and arrogant; they act with boundless arrogance."
Unexpectedly, JoJo felt conviction about the way he treated Runt. The words had worn into his soul. I am a chump.
JoJo decided to call Randy.
"Hello"
"Hey, Randy. It's JoJo."
"Hey JoJo."
Wow! I thought he would give me the business for the way I treated him. JoJo thought.
"Uhh, Randy...I want to apologize for the way I treated you last night at the Rec. Department."
"Oh, that's Ok. People treat me like that ALL the time!"
"Really?"
"Sure. I am used to it."
"Randy, I will never treat you like that again!"
"Oh gee wiz, JoJo. That's super!"
"Cool. I'll be seeing you, Randy."
"Yea, see ya."

"Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with boundless arrogance."
JoJo knew there was one other person he needed to call.
"May I speak with Sydney?"
"Hold on."
"Hello."
"Hey Coach. This is JoJo."
"Well, my batting taunter."
"I know Sydney. I am really sorry. It was rotten the way I acted."
"No Problem. Hey, what made you decide to call me?"
"I don't want you to get the wrong idea. No-one made me call you--or even knows I called you. But, my Dad found out about it."
"Ha! What is your punishment?"
"My Dad calls it 'FUN' which makes it worse. He is making me memorize a Bible verse. For every word I got wrong in the first hour, I had to run a mile."
"And, how many miles did you run."
"Three."
Sydney laughed so hard that he had to put the phone down.
"Woo hoo. Sorry, JoJo."
"Naw man, I deserve it."
"What verse did you have to memorize?"
"Proverbs 21:24; Mockers are proud and arrogant; they act with boundless arrogance."
"Go Mr. Smith. Sounds like you learned a lesson."
"Huh. I really wasn't even thinking about learning something from this. I just wanted to get right with everybody. But, you are right. I learned a lot!"
"It's none of my business, but did you call Runt--I mean Ray?"
"I sure did."
"Good JoJo. I am proud of you!"
"Thanks Coach. Is it OK for me to come to the next game? Am I on Suspension or anything?"
"Let me think about it." 3 SECOND PAUSE "You can come back."
"Cool. See ya next Tuesday."

At 12:40, the phone rang.
JoJo didn't say Hello. Instead, he said, "Proverbs 21:24; Mockers are proud and haughty: they act with boundless arrogance."
"That's my boy! Round Two of Fun is over. See ya at 5. Have the ball and gloves ready...."

JoJo 17.6; Summer of 1976; Part Six; Salvation for One and Spiritual Exercise for Another

At 10:38, JoJo's phone rang. He was trying so hard to remember each word of Proverbs 21:24.
I really don't need ANY Interruptions! JoJo thought.
After 4 rings, JoJo picked up the phone...
"Hello."
It was Samantha. "JoJo, you don't sound very good."
"Oh, hey Samantha. I'm fine." He was not going to add to her emotional burden this morning.
"I have some wonderful news! Oh, wait...Have you talked to your mother since last night?"
"No, I haven't talked to Mom. What's going on?"
"Momma got saved last night!!"
"Wow! Praise God!!! Tell me what happened!"
"We went in to the chapel to pray, right?"
"OK."
"Your momma asked my momma about her previous church experience, and it was bad! I didn't know about all this stuff."
"I'm sorry, Samantha."
"Well, it was bad, but God used it for good---kinda liked Joseph told his brothers when they were scared he was going to kill them."
"Oh, yea. What good happened?"
"Momma had things all mixed up about church, and I don't blame her the way she was treated because she was poor. It really helped me understand her and Aunt Trudy. Momma said that is when she started drinking a lot. If you can believe it, they even took me to the bar when I was 2 years-old!"
"Dang!"
"I know. Momma started crying. Then, all of the sudden, I felt God's power well up inside me. I told her Jesus was with us."
"Did she believe you?"
"She asked me how I knew. I told her---For the Bible tells me so!"
"What did she say?"
"Momma said, 'What must I do to be saved?' I had just been reading in Acts, and those were the exact words of the dude holding Paul and Silas in the jail."
"Wow! Did you look it up and read it to her?"
"No! God gave me the words! It was almost like he was flowing through me."
"Did your Mom listen?"
"To every word! When I got through, Mom told me she wanted Jesus to come into her heart."
"What did you say?"
"I asked her, 'Do you believe He is the Son of God? That He died on a cross for your sins, and was raised on the third day?'"
"Well..."
"Momma said, 'I do!' Your momma and me were praising the Lord! Then, my momma fell on her knees. She must have thanked Jesus 44 times! It was so cool! I am so happy, and tired!"
"Samantha, I am so happy for your momma and you! Listen, Dan's got me doing some stuff, can I call you back?"
"Well, Momma and me are taking shifts watching Aunt Trudy---oh, we're home now! Then, I'll crash. Would it be OK if I call you tomorrow?"
"Oh sure! Dan's got me running around anyways. I'll talk to you then."

After JoJo hung up the phone, he looked at the clock, it was 10:58! He had 19 minutes before Dan would call from work to hear his progress!
It's only 10 words! You can do this, JoJo!
Let's see: Mockers are proud and...
JoJo read the scripture again.
Mockers are proud and haughty. Yes! Half way there!
JoJo looked at the clock. 11:13! OH NO!!!!!!!
Mockers are proud and haughty; they act
JoJo was about to read the verse again, and the phone rang. He knew he had to pick it up: It was 11:17
Dan sounded cheerful, "How's the memory work going, Pal?"
"Uhh. Pretty Good."
About that time Alice came to JoJo's door.
Dan explained, "It's not that I don't trust you, but to make things fair, Alice will watch you say your verse from memory."
"Yessir."
Alice said, "I am ready when you are, JoJo."
"YesMam. Proverbs 21:24 Mockers are proud and haughty, they act......um um"
Dan had explained the details to Alice before he went to work.
"Got 7 right, JoJo. Do you know how many total words there are?"
"Yessir 10."
"10 minus 7 would be?"
"3 miles."
"You are correct, That ends Round One of Fun. Mom will watch you run the mile track by the pond."
"Alice, after 3 times, call me. We'll have Round 2 of Fun."

JoJo 17.5; Summer 1976; Part Five; Run for Fun

Meanwhile, back at the hospital...

Samantha, her mother, Jane, and Alice were in the Chapel praising God!!! Samantha pictured it to be much like Paul and Silas' singing and praising the Lord in the jail that night! She could feel the very presence of God! There were angels rejoicing over her mother being saved! The three must have stayed in the chapel for another 45 minutes. They prayed, cried, and finally Samantha led them in a song. It was the only "church song" her mother knew.
He's got the whole world in his hands...

Samantha and her momma spent the night at the hospital. Jane went home. It was about 11:00 when she arrived, and not a creature was stirring, not even a......
Jane found Dan in almost a comma-state of sleep. That was his nature once he dozed off. So, she snuggled in with Dan. As soon as she closed her eyes, she was asleep.

The next morning, JoJo was rousted out of bed at 10:00 AM!
"Hey, what's the big idea?! Oh, sorry Dad."
"Son, get up," Dan succinctly communicated.
"Yessir." JoJo was used to sleeping until 12:00...but NOT today.
"Anything you want to tell me about last night?"
JoJo's head was hearing words, but it was too early to make sense. His dad helped him.
"Uhhh. Son, did anything happen at the Rec. Department."
Now JoJo was waking up. "Oh, sure Dad! I had 3 singles, a walk, stole 10 bases, and scored 4 runs!"
"Congratulations. Did you get along OK with everyone?"
"Uh, no sir."
"Go on, Son."
"The stinkin Dodgers were poor sports! They didn't appreciate the fact we beat them 22-0! We demolished them."
"Oh, so I suppose you were a good sport."
JoJo thought about it. "I don't know about 'good sport' but I kicked butt!"
"JoJo, that's a pathetic attitude!"
"What do you mean Dad?"
"My favorite coach was named Ralph Parsons. Coach Parsons taught us to be Humble Winners and Gracious Losers. You sound like a sore winner."
"Really Dad?"
"YES SON! But, let's move on.... I got three phone calls this morning. The last one was from Tom Jones, the Smallville Recreation Leader."
"Really? What did they want?"
"They wanted to know why my son--that would be YOU---acted like a jerk last night at the ball yard."
"Me?"
"You"
"What did I do?"
"Let me see....JOJO SMITH, YOU'RE OUTTA THE BALLPARK!"
"Oh that?" Looks like Squid squealed on me.
"Son, what were you thinking?"
"Dad, I was just having fun."
"Would you like to have some more fun, Son?"
"I don't think so."
"JoJo, get up, get dressed, and be in the backyard in 5 minutes."
"YESSIR!" Oh man....I never heard Dan talk that calm when he was mad! This is bad! bad!

Dan told JoJo about the 'Fun.' "Son, you will learn a Bible verse today."
"What verse Big Dan?"
"Proverbs 21:24."
"Sounds good."
"Here's the Bible, JoJo. Look it up."
"Uh..got it. 'Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with boundless arrogance.'"
"Now, last night, you were that Mocker! You acted with boundless arrogance. You were just plain-out mean and told people 'I was just funning.' Today, I am going to allow you to do some more funning."
How...How does Dan find out..it's the next morning. For crying out loud.
"How long do I have to learn the verse?"
"It's up to you..."
"Cool."
"Here's how the fun works....Each hour you will have an opportunity to recite the verse to me. For each word you get wrong, you will run a mile. When you have it just right, we'll quit. Sound like fun?"
"No Sir!"
"You hurt the Smith name last night. I am going to help you learn how 'I was just joking' can hurt."
"But, Dad. I said funning."
"You want to make that 2 miles?"
"No sir."
"Good. It is 10:17. At 11:17, we will have our first FUN. GOOOO!!"

JoJo 17.4; Summer 1976; Part Four: You're Outta the Ball Park!

Meanwhile, Dan had to juggle the 2 kids, so he called Fire and asked if JoJo could ride to the Ball Park with them. Of course, Fire was glad to help. Even though JoJo's game was at 5:00 and Tommy's was at 6:30, the boys always went to both games. They loved to hang out at the Smallville Rec. Department.

Dan explained to Remi, "Honey, we need to go home and feed you supper."
"OK Daddy."
Dan smiled, and thanked God for his two kids.

The Wildfires pulled up at the Smiths at 4:30. Fire honked the horn, and JoJo ran out of the house. However, half way to the car, he did a 360 and headed back to the house for his all-important glove that he forgot.
When JoJo got to the car, Tommy said, "You got everything, Bro?"
"I do now! I bout forgot the ole Trusty Rawlings!"
As Fire began to drive away, he said, "JoJo, I'm sorry to hear about Samantha's aunt. How's she doing?"
"Thanks, Mr. Wildfire. She is doing remarkably better. Mom's Prayer Team prayed for her, and I believe it worked!"
"Praise the Lord!!!" Fire said. A few years ago, he would have never uttered those 3 words.
Tommy changed the conversation. "How you think you'll play today, JoJo?"
"Well, I don't mean to brag, but I would be scared if I were the Dodgers!"
Tommy laughed. "Ha! You got that right."
JoJo turned the tables, "So how you going to do today, Tommy boy?" (In his best Rocky voice)
"I feel a double and a triple coming on!"
"I hear ya!" The boys gave each other a high-five. It was a new thing. In the past, everyone just gave a regular five, slid skin, or a handshake.
Tommy said, "I see your wearing your red sanitary hose that you got at the Champs House!"
The Champs House was the cool sports shop that the boys frequented at least twice a week.
"I like your gold ones, my friend!" JoJo returned the compliment.
(In 1976, baseball players wore sanitary socks underneath their stirrups. Since the beginning of time, everyone had worn white sanitary hose, but not the guys in Smallville. Well, at least the "cool ones."

As they entered the SRD Complex, there were a few players form the Dodgers (JoJo's opponent) and the Expos (JoJo's team), plus SRD Coaches Jones and Daniels. Fire told the boys he would be back around 8:00 to pick them up.
As Tommy and JoJo walked up, JoJo started cutting the fool--right off the bat.
"Well, if ain't ole Ty Cobb,"--referring to Thomas Randolph.
"Hey, Pumpkin Head!" Thomas fired back.
This would be a foreshadowing of the mood for the evening.
The guys loved teasing each other as much as playing baseball, and that was a lot!

When JoJo's game started, Tommy would hang around the park. There were other kids to talk to, plus he had to get his arm warmed up just right! During Tommy's game, JoJo would hang out at the ball park as well.
"Play ball!" Umpire Sydney Truffant said. Sydney was also a coach for the SRD. There were no "volunteer coaches" in those days. The SRD Staff did everything: coach, keep the book, and umpire. It just happened to be Sydney's turn to umpire for that night.
The Expos got the Dodgers out easily---3 Up and 3 Down in the top of the first inning.
JoJo was the lead-off hitter for the Expos. He would love to have been a home-run hitter, but he was a singles-doubles hitter. Sure enough, the first pitch JoJo saw, he slapped it into left field for a single. Right away, JoJo began talking smack.
He told the first-baseman, Joel Langston, "Rag-Arm better bring more than that if he wants to get me out!"
Joel succinctly said, "Shut Up, JoJo!"

Pony League rules were quite different from Little League rules. First, the field was bigger. Next, you could lead off base as the pitcher came set for his delivery to the plate. All of this led to players stealing bases much more easily than in Little League. JoJo was one of the best base-stealers in the League. Sure enough, on the first pitch he was gone. The next pitch, he stole third. After a foul ball, JoJo stole home on the fourth pitch.
As soon as JoJo touched the plate, he looked at the catcher, "Sad" Mellow and said, "That was easy!"
Sad didn't say a word.

The game was dominated by the Expos. JoJo ended up with 3 singles and a walk in his 4 unofficial at bats. He also had 10 steals and scored 4 runs. The final score: Expos 22; Dodgers 0.
JoJo was not a good sport! He told Tom Champion, the Dodgers third baseman, "You guys stink!"
Tom fired back, "If that umpire could see, we would have beat y'all!"
Jose Lopez told JoJo, "You got a BIG mouth."
JoJo responded, "Guys, I am just funning."
The Dodgers walked off in a huff.

The crowd for Tommy's game was sparse. JoJo played in the park for a little while. He threw the ball with his teammate, Eric Dixon, until Mrs. Dixon came to pick up Eric. After that, JoJo got bored, so he walked over to the game. He stood at the fence, and began ragging players. At first he was talking quietly.
"What a swing! Too bad you missed!"
"Striiiiike 3!!"
Then, JoJo decided it would be more fun if he allowed the batters to hear his commentary.
Kevin Sams came to bat. He was not the best hitter in the league, but he always tried.
JoJo didn't care if he was trying or not. He began, "Hey, hey batter---SWING!"
Which is exactly what Kevin did, followed by a look towards JoJo.
"You looking at me? Is he looking at me?" JoJo, as usual, used his Rocky voice.
After Kevin struck out, Sydney, the home-plate umpire told JoJo to cut it out, without looking in JoJo's direction. That curtailed JoJo for the rest of the inning. However, in the bottom of the third, Tommy came up to bat.
JoJo in a cat-call voice, "Tommy Boy..."
He did this after every pitch, until Tommy got a hit.
Once again, Sydney told JoJo, "I told you to cut it out, Smith!" This time he looked right at JoJo.
Something about being called "Smith" didn't sit right with JoJo.
He thought to himself, What is Syd, the Squid going to do to me anyway!
JoJo turned up the heat. The next batter was a small boy named, Randy Rewis. The boys just called him Runt. Since Runt was only about 4'2" tall, his pants were almost at his ankles. However, to match his uniform, Runt had blue sanitary hose on. Now, only a small part of the sock could be seen, which opened the door for JoJo.
In a loud voice, JoJo said, "HA, look at those socks! Oh wait--I can't see them. HaHaHa!"
JoJo was so pleased with himself. It was a euphoric moment!
Until....Sydney had a belly full of JoJo's nonsense! He took off his mask, and shouted, "JOJO SMITH, YOU'RE OUTTA THE BALL PARK!!!!!!!!!"
It was as if time stood still. All the fellers were laughing at him. Sydney's face looked like a cherry--kinda frightened JoJo. It was almost like a dream, but JoJo started walking away from the field. Honestly, he wanted to go somewhere--he was totally embarrassed. He never heard of anyone getting "thrown outta the ball park." Sure, "thrown out of a game." Where would he go. He knew Fire would not be there until 8:00. That was 45 minutes away, so JoJo found a dark place in the Parking Lot and just walked around. He didn't understand how one of the classic, most-fun times of his life evaporated because of 6 words!

When JoJo woke up the next morning, he didn't remember much of the night after getting "kicked outta the Ball Park!" He just knew he was still embarrassed!!

JoJo 17.3; Summer 1976; Part Three; What must I do to be saved?

Meanwhile at Aunt Karen's...
"Remi, are you hungry?"
"Remi ALWAYS hungry!"
"HaHa! How bout some Mac n Cheese?"
"Ummm"
Thankfully, Karen was taking care of Remi.

Things at the hospital could have been better, but they could have been worse.
Alice and the girls were back from lunch, and Dan & JoJo were in the ICU Waiting Room.
Samantha said, "I hope y'all haven't been here the entire time!"
JoJo took the lead, "No, Dad and I spent some time in the chapel."
Jane, Samantha's mother responded, "Honestly, my sister Trudy and I have not been to church in a long time. We have not prayed in a long time. Our daddy took us to the river every Sunday when we were growing up. Heck, I didn't know anything about church...until Samantha was born. I talked to Trudy about going to the church down the road, The First Self-Righteous Church. She said that would be a good idea. They could help us raise Samantha--the correct way. So, when Samantha was about 2, we walked down to the church. But...."
Alice jumped in, "What Jane?"
With a mist in her eyes, Jane uttered, "They laughed at us. Our clothes were older than theirs. Shoot, we looked bad. But, I never knew you needed to look good to go to church!"
Alice again, took the lead, "That is awful! Jane, it matters what is on the inside of a person, not what is on the outside."
Jane said, "That's what I thought, but..."
Alice pushed things (maybe a little too far), "Did you stay for the service?"
Jane shed a tear. "No, we left after a few minutes. We could hear the mean things the people were saying. I started drinking bad after that. Trudy too. We went out every Saturday night. Sometimes, we took Samantha with us. We found a quiet back room at most bars, and left her there."
Jane was now in full Boo Hoo mode, and Alice realized she asked too many questions.
Alice suggested the men go home. JoJo had a baseball game at 5:00, and Karen was probably feeding Remi Mac n Cheese.
After a brief conversation between JoJo and Samantha, the fellers left.
Alice suggested that Samantha, Jane, and she go in the chapel. That is what happened. They were joined by a fourth member...Jesus. Jane poured out her heart. Jane knew Samantha had changed.
"I want what my daughter has, Alice! Is it too late for me?"
"NEVER!" Alice exclaimed.
Samantha stepped in, "Momma, I love you! Jesus does, too! I know He is here with us right now!"
"Oh, Honey....how can you know?"
"Jesus promises in God's Word that He will be where 2 or 3 gather in His name!"
"Oh Samantha! I am so proud of you! What must I do to be saved?"
Samantha told her about the account in Acts 16. "Momma a mean crowd beat 2 men with wood rods."
"What were their names and WHY?!"
"Their names were Paul and Silas. They ruined some men's business by casting a demon out of their fortune teller."
"Oh my. Did the business men beat em?"
"No, they told lies on them to the city officials. Then, this mob formed."
"Like in the movies?"
"Exactly! After they were beaten, they got thrown in jail."
"I've been there a few times."
"True. But, did you ever pray and sing hymns at midnight?"
"Heck no!"
"That is what they did."
"Why??"
"They loved Jesus!"
"Well, don't stop now, honey! Tell me the rest of the story."
"So...Suddenly, there was this BIG earthquake. The jail doors flew open, and the prisoners chains fell off!"
"Ha, I bet they high-tailed it outta there!"
"That's what the jailer thought, too. He knew he would die for letting them escape, so he drew his sword to kill himself."
"That's awful. He didn't cause the earthquake. Heck fire!"
"Before he could kill himself, Paul shouted for him to STOP. The jailer saw the prisoners were all there."
"And, what happened next??"
"The jailer asked what you just asked---WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?"
"Honey, PLEASE tell me." Jane was sobbing.
"Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everybody else in your household."
"Did he believe?"
"Yes mam! The jailer took em home, clean their wounds, and fed em!"
"Did he get saved?"
"Yes mam! He and his whole family believed in the Lord Jesus and were saved! They even got baptized that night."
"Honey, my heart is warm. I want Jesus to come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior!"
"Well, do you believe He is the Son of God? That He died on a cross for your sins, and was raised on the third day?"
"I do!"
"Praise the Lord, Momma! You are saved!"
Alice had been sitting back watching, now shouted, "PRAISE THE LORD!!!"
Jane fell to her knees and kept repeating, "Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Jesus!"

Samantha couldn't wait to tell JoJo!!

JoJo 17.2; Summer of 1976; Part Two

July 5, 1976

JoJo couldn't believe the phone was ringing at 7:00 AM. It was summer!
JoJo, cracky voice and all, answered, "hello."
"JoJo?"
It was Samantha! Aww Man, I forgot her Aunt was in the hospital.
"Hey Samantha! Are you ok?"
"Yea, I'm fine. But..."
"But What?"
"My aunt is not doing well..."
JoJo knew that Samantha was holding back tears.
"I'm sorry, Samantha. Can I do anything to help?"
"Would you be offended if I talked to your mom?"
My MOM?! JoJo thought. His selfishness quickly went away when he heard a sniff on the other end of the line.
"Sure Samantha."

JoJo went down stairs. Alice was cooking breakfast. JoJo was glad he told his mom about the accident before he went to bed. It's bad to get a shock early in the morning.
"Good morning, mom."
Alice was shocked to see JoJo up before noon in the summer time.
"You OK, JoJo?!!"
"Ha, yes mam. Samantha is on the phone and wants to talk to you."
"Oh my, Sure."

Samantha and Alice didn't talk long.
Alice started calling out orders, "JoJo, please stay here with Remi. I need to go to the hospital. When your Dad gets home, he can take care of Remi and I'll come get you."
JoJo started to question his mother, but stopped himself. "Yes mam."

JoJo ate his breakfast and went back to bed. Remi usually awoke at 10:00, unlike his noon-sleeping self. So, he set his alarm clock for 10.
It seemed like 5 minutes passed when the alarm clocked yelled for JoJo to GET UP! He got Remi up and fed her. JoJo explained, as best he could, the situation. Then, he and Remi played X-Box.

Dan came home for lunch. This was unusual for JoJo's dad! He was usually gone from 6:30 AM until 7:00 PM, however Alice called and filled Dan in on Samantha's aunt.
"Hi, JoJo and Remi."
"Hey my daddy," Remi joyfully blurted prior to giving Dan a big hug.
'Thank you Butter-Cup! Jo, how ya feeling?"
"I don't know. Confused. Helpless."
"Would you feel better if you could see Samantha?"
"YESSIR!"
"Good. Let me wolf down this sandwich. Remi can go to Aunt Karen's and we can go to the hospital."
JoJo didn't know what to say. But, he was grateful.

When the Smith men arrived at the hospital, they each received hugs from Samantha first, then Samantha's mom and Alice.
Samantha appreciatively thanked the Smith men, but her mom fell all over herself with joy.
"I can't tell you how much I love the Smiths! My sister was in bad shape, but after Alice and her Prayer Group prayed, everything changed! The doctors think she can get out of here tomorrow! "
"Wow!" Dan exclaimed. "Praise the Lord!"
Samantha fired back, "Praise the Lord!"
Alice looked ragged. "Dan, I am going to take these ladies to get something to eat. Will you and JoJo hang around."
"That's what we're here for!"

After Alice took Samantha and her mom to Chick-A-Yum Yum, Dan looked at JoJo.
"It's our turn to pray."
"Yessir."
Samantha's aunt was in ICU, so the guys went to the chapel. Dan let the nurses know where they would be.

When they got in the chapel, Dan began, "Oh Lord, our Lord! You are God, and we are not. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of Samantha's family. Praise you for allowing us to be a part of your family. Praise you for the healing that has already taken place, but Father----don't stop there. Heal our dear friend completely! Furthermore, we pray for salvation for Samantha's family. We pray for strength for her. Thank you, Lord that my son reached out to this young girl..."
Dan very quietly began to cry.
From that point forward, the two Smith men continued to silently pray.

JoJo 17.1; Summer of 1976, Part One

It was the nation's bicentennial. The U.S.A.'s 200th Birthday. There were celebrations throughout the summer, but things built to a crescendo in Smallville on July the 4th. At the SHS Stadium, hundreds, if not thousands, gathered for a bicentennial play, music, and fireworks. JoJo was right in the middle of it! He loved history. Maybe not the kind in school, but he loved picking which parts of history he could learn about. His favorite was American History. That July 4, 1976 really was a treat for him.

JoJo turned to Samantha. "Don't you love all this celebration of our nation's centennial, Samantha?"
"I guess so. Really just want to see the fireworks."
Remi chimed in, "Me, too. I love fireworks."
JoJo ignored Remi. His parents had been using that technique with JoJo in the recent weeks in order for the siblings to get along.
"Samantha!"
"JoJo! What?!"
"We will not have another hundredth year birthday for our nation until 2076! I don't think we will be around."
Samantha was completely apathetic. "And...?"
JoJo, a little perturbed, "Fine, just be ignorant."
That hit Samantha the wrong way. "You arrogant twerp!" With that, she got up and walked off.
"Samantha mad," Remi managed.
"Shut up, Remi!"
"Ooo, JoJo! Mommy said don't say 'shut up.'"
JoJo ignored that comment. Since he was left in charge of Remi, he didn't think he should run after Samantha---although every other part of him was saying, 'Chase Samantha.'

The rest of the night made up--somewhat---for Samantha's exit. JoJo loved each bit of the celebration. Even Remi enjoyed it, especially the fireworks! When JoJo got home, he called Samantha, but there was no answer.
"Fine, I didn't want to talk to you either!" JoJo said to Samantha--even though she couldn't hear him.
Little did JoJo know that Samantha's aunt had been hurt in a car wreck. She and her mother were at the hospital.
Later that night, JoJo's phone rang.
"Hello."
"Hey, JoJo."
"Hey Samantha. I'm sorry for being a jerk."
"It's OK. JoJo, my aunt has been in a car wreck."
"WHAT?!"
"Yea, it's pretty bad. Momma and I are at the hospital."
"Do you want mom and me to come."
"Not today, maybe tomorrow. Listen, I got to go. Just wanted you to know what was going on."
"Yea. Sorry Samantha."
"I'll talk to you tomorrow."

JoJo 16.3; Freshman Year Flew By...

JoJo's life seemed to be in hyper-speed! The next few weeks of his Freshman year flew by!

JoJo wrote in his journal on May 28th, 1976:
I have finished my Freshman year at Smallville High School. I know I will forget stuff, so I have decided to list them out.
First day of school: Me and Tommy were scared to death, fortunately we had the same first 2 periods together. We were so happy to have a 10:10 recess until we discovered the meaning of a Wake-Up Call first hand. When those Seniors' rings came down on our heads, we knew we had entered a vicious world.
The Rest of Fall Semester: A ton of this is a blur.
It was awful being late to Mrs. Tenses' class! I really don't like her, but thankfully Old Man Earth's science class kinda saved the day. He is a nice man!
Church was fun, especially playing in the Youth Band.
Surprisingly, Cindy and I became really good friends.
The second week of school, Senior Chris Side befriended me! Not only did I get to ride in his Dodge Charger, he saved me from Wake-Up calls for the rest of the Semester. However, that made the rest of my fellow freshman fellers mad.
I loved school food, but I hated the rest of it! Mean teachers, mean Seniors, my friends had turned on me, and NO girlfriend. I didn't have this dream of high school back in the 8th grade, We really had it good back then.
Cindy and God kept me going. It was really cool when Cindy came to 'Youth' at the Church! She and Ms. Passion got really tight. For one of the first times in my life, I was happy for somebody else. It was all about me, me, me. What am I getting for my birthday? What I am getting for Christmas? What am I getting for Easter? 
Then it happened, Cindy got saved! She was on fire for God! Cindy helped me realize that I needed to let God stoke my spiritual embers. The rest of 1975 is just like a dream.
The Spring Semester was a little different. For starters, I got Wake-Up Calls again! But they were less frequent. Plus, I didn't walk around like Bambi, lost in the woods. I knew my way around, which included hiding places from the Seniors!
I don't remember the exact date, but it was a cold day in February. I had encounters with God before, but this day at Big Church would change my whole perspective.  I began to be convicted about poor people. For some reason, I had been looking down on them. My family was not that rich to start off with, but I realized how evil it was for me to be looking down on poor people.
The one person I thought about...Samantha. What sealed the deal was the Choir anthem! I can still hear them singing--in my heart---"Do you give freely like you trust Me or do you hold back your faith like your giving?"
That set in motion my reaching out to Samantha.
She finally started talking to me.
We ate lunch together.
We became friends.
Somehow, because Tommy was hating himself and taking it out on me, it led to he and Samantha going to the Show.
I was so mad until he called that night. He said he had talked to his Earthly Father and his Heavenly Father. We made up on the phone because of them talking.
The next day, Samantha and I starting liking each other. 
Samantha became my girlfriend! Wow! There was a point in my life that my pride would not have allowed that to happen, but God had changed me. I am thankful He did.
My family helped Samantha...a lot. Especially my momma. 
Samantha is now saved! I try not to look down on people because they are poor. After all, aren't we all poor in some ways? Plus, God has blessed us with His best gift: Salvation through Jesus! So, spiritually all Christians are rich!!
The verses God seared in my heart...
James 2:5-7; "Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn't God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren't they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? But you dishonor the poor! Isn't it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Aren't they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?"
Samantha is such a good person. She is always thinking of others. It amazes me how fast she has grown in the faith. I figure there aren't a lot of material things between her and God, and they spend a lot of time together. I am sad to say but many of the people who go to Smallville United Methodist Church, including my family, own a lot of stuff. We spend a great deal of time with our stuff instead of God. Sometimes, we take Sunday to use our stuff. I know my family will sometimes go out on our boat on Sundays, instead of going to church. Why don't we do that on Saturday? Oh, now I remember: we are cleaning and polishing our other stuff. I can't live for anybody else but me.
Self, today is the day! I will spend more time with God and less time with my stuff!
Kinda crazy, after I allowed God to help me, and Samantha and I started going together, I don't remember much about the last few weeks! Well, except Spring Holidays when my family and I went to HorseShoe Beach, Florida. We had a blast!
I am going to draw myself a conclusion with the Lord's help:We often remember the bad times instead of the good times. And, I remember the funny times, too. Ha!

PLANS FOR THE SUMMER:
Play Pony League Baseball.
Go to Church Camp.
Sleep late!
I have a girlfriend! Thank you, God for Samantha! Hang out with her--plenty!

 THANK YOU, GOD FOR GETTING ME THROUGH MY FRESHMAN YEAR IN ONE PIECE!

JoJo 16.2; Post-Sermon Conversation

The Smiths and Samantha were on the way to her trailer after their delicious meal at the Tasty Freeze!
Dan started, "What part of the sermon spoke to you?"
Alice asked, "Who are you talking to, Honey?"
"Each of you."
JoJo started, "God doesn't want me to waste my life. Not even one day. Not even one moment. I want to learn from every moment. I don't want anything to brush by like the wind."
Alice proudly said, "Thanks, JoJo! That was beautiful!"
JoJo once again used his Rocky voice, "You talking to me?"
Alice fired back as she laughed, "I'm talking to you."
By now everyone was laughing.
JoJo had one more Rocky imitation. "Thank you very much."
Dan spoke up, "I have been worrying about the future."
Alice asked, "How so, Dear?"
"I plan for my business. I want to control the numbers, but I can't! Sometimes, they scare me. I think, 'What if we lose our house?' or 'What if we can't pay for Remi and JoJo's college expenses?'"
Alice pushed, "Anything else, Dan?"
After a few seconds of silence. Dan admitted, "I worry that in the end I have not done enough to please God."
This was heavy. Samantha took it all in. She spoke up.
"Mr. Smith, I don't pretend to have all the answers, but I know Jesus forgives All our sin! Past, Present, and Future. Sure, faith without works is dead. But, I believe God wants us to follow Him. To allow His Spirit to flow through us to help others. I believe each of us has a specific ministry."
Dan paused, "That is so true Samantha. But, am I allowing God His rightful place in my life? Am I being used by Him in His perfect plan?"
Samantha actually counseled Dan. "Maybe you need to take some time to get alone with God and ask Him."
Those words allowed Dan to relax. "That's exactly what I need to do. Thanks, Samantha."
"I don't have any Rocky voices, so...you're welcome."
Everyone quietly laughed, because God had just used Samantha to speak such a powerful word.
There was quiet, except for the Pat Terry 8-Track playing in the background, for several minutes.
Finally, Samantha broke the silence. "I have been a prisoner to my past. I would rather not talk about specifics, but I have been ashamed of my clothes, my home, and my family. I have had some rough things happen to me. The devil has used these against me. But, I am going to claim God's Word every time I am reminded of my past. I AM A NEW CREATION IN CHRIST!"
All said, "AMEN!"
Alice exclaimed, "Oh, Samantha! We love you so much! Please know we are here for you."
Samantha surprised the Smith men when she said, "I appreciate everything y'all done for me, and I would really like to talk to you sometime, Mrs. Smith."
Alice was honored. "It's a date, my dear!"
JoJo asked his mom, "What did God say to you this morning, Mom?"
She simply said, "Others."
Samantha asked, "What do you mean?"
"I need to help others more."
Dan fired back, "Honey, you help others more than anyone I know."
Alice simply stated, "I can do more."
About that time, the Smithmobile pulled up to Samantha's trailer.
Samantha thanked the Smiths, then said, "Call me later, JoJo."
"I will, bye."
God smiled.

JoJo16.1: Pastor Paul Preaches

"Hey Smiths!"
Samantha was so happy to be going to church. And, this Sunday was different! She had a new boy friend. Oh, Samantha had many boyfriends in the past, but they were all rough characters. JoJo was a nice, Christian boy. She was thankful! JoJo was beaming as he saw Samantha in the new outfit his mom had gotten her.
"Hello, Samantha," said the entire Smith family, well except for Remi. She was still at her granny's. They attended the little church in the wildwood.

Dan had difficulty finding a parking place at the church. Pastor Paul Peacock was preaching today. He was a traveling preacher, and he came to Smallville once every year or two. The church just called him Pastor Paul. Dan finally found a place, and ironically Tommy and his family parked 3 places down from them. As the Smith and Wildfire families got out of their cars, pleasantries were spread. JoJo and Samantha didn't stick around too long---it was still a little weird to be around Tommy.

Pastor Paul was popular! The church was almost full. As JoJo and Samantha entered the church, they heard familiar calls form their sophomore friends: Jane, Debra, and Alan.
Alan was practically yelling (as usual), "Come join us!"
JoJo led the way. The five sat together. Samantha was thrilled to be where she was (church), with the people she was with (especially JoJo), and at that moment. (It was one of the happiest mornings of her life.) The kids talked to each other, over each other, and through each other.

It was 11:00, and the service began. JoJo usually loved the music more than any other part of the service. However, today was going to be different. After the announcements, offering, and much singing, Pastor Paul moved to the middle of the stage. He never used a microphone--because he didn't need one. His voice bellowed a melodic sound that all heard. For those who were familiar with this sound, it was pleasing and heaven-sent.

"Today, we are going to talk about, 'TODAY!' This is the only day we have been given. As it has been said many times, 'Today is a gift--that is why it is called the present.'" Many chuckled, while other nodded knowingly. 
"As Christians, we need to live for the future, in the presence, because of what God has done for us in the past. Wooooo! That was a mouthful. Let me say it in another way: We need to claim our lives in Christ for future things because of God's working in our lives now. This is because God uses His Living Word to tell us about these promises, even though they were written in the past. Now, you may say: 'Preacher, we don't need to worry about tomorrow.' You are right!

Let's look at this text from God's Word found in Matthew, chapter 6, verses 31-34.
Jesus said, "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own troubles." 

We certainly don't want to worry about tomorrow! Is it ok to make plans for tomorrow? Certainly! We need to plan for our church, family, career, hobbies, and other things. However, if we are not careful, we will find ourself living in the future. We plan and plan and plan. Well, what if the end of the day comes and we have not been grateful. We haven't laughed.
We haven't smelled the roses or watched the clouds. We haven't helped our neighbor. We didn't stop to listen. Why? We were planning, planning, planning...
It can happen. But....But....this is a worse scenario: We are so busy planning for tomorrow that we don't love our God, and we don't enjoy the day He has created.
Psalm 118:24; This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.

Maybe you are thinking, Pastor, I am starting to get this, but what is wrong with studying the past?
Friend, there is nothing wrong with studying the past. God wants us to learn about his creation, about history, about communication, and so much more. As a matter of fact, when we study the Bible, we are studying about History. But, I must warn you that the Bible is not a History book. It is a living Word that God uses to talk to us and change our soul to be more like the Christ.
Here is a possible problem with the past...being a prisoner to it! Maybe you have tragedies in your past, God can heal you. Maybe you have regrets in you past, God can give you a clear conscience. Maybe you have SINNED in the past! 
I John 1:9; If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Let the past go! It's your choice! LET IT GO, SO YOU CAN LIVE TODAY! Others need you today! God needs you today! Your church needs you today!

This brings us back to that confusing statement at the beginning of my sermon:
AS CHRISTIANS, WE NEED TO LIVE FOR THE FUTURE, IN THE PRESENCE, BECAUSE OF WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR US IN THE PAST.
Is that confusing to anybody? OK, that was everybody! Ha! I will try to clarify.
Ephesians 2:4-10 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His Kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

If you are not a Christian, these verses speak to you. Christ has paid the price for your sins. Just ask him into your heart. Believe on Him and be saved!
Roman 10:8&9; But what does it say? 'The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart' (that is the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
II Corinthians 6:2 For He says: 'In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.' Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.
For the Christian: Yes, today is our only day. However, due to God's mercy, we are alive in Christ--looking toward the future in expectation. We must not get bogged down in planning. Also, we must not be a prisoner to the past. Let us give thanks and praise to God for today! I charge you that we are to be God's people today! 
Job 14:5; A person's days are determined; you have decreed the number of months and have set limits he cannot exceed. 
In closing, I visited my friend, Tom in the hospital. He is terminally ill. I asked him, 'If you get out of this hospital and live without this illness for just one day, what would you do?'
Tom surprised me! He said, 'Pastor Paul, I need to ask you if you live each day like it is your last?'
I thought for a brief moment and said 'no.' Tom said, Pastor, I have learned to live each day like it is my last. Do you want to know what I do each day?'
'Tell me.'
'By God's grace, I love Him and others. If you do that well, it's a good, full day.'
All I could say to Tom was, 'Thank you.'

As we play our invitation hymn, want you come to the altar. If you need someone to pray with you, our Prayer Team will be here to receive you.

JoJo 15.3; Two Turtle Doves or Two Kids in Love

"Samantha, did you and Alice have some girl time?" JoJo asked.
"Well, yes we did!" She smiled at Mrs. Smith.
Dan greeted Samantha, "Hi, Samantha!"
"Hey Mr. Smith."
"JoJo and I have been slaving over lunch! Hope you girls will like it."
Samantha eagerly said, "I know I will." She hadn't eaten since yesterday, so it would be mighty tasty.
The four ate in the backyard at the picnic table. The adults ate one burger, but the two youngsters wolfed down 2 each.
"Thanks, Mr. Smith...and JoJo. This was delicious!"
"You're welcome!" said the Smith Men in unison.

JoJo's mother said, "Why don't you play something on your guitar, Son?"
"Aww, Mom..."
"Yea yea," chimed in Dan and Samantha.
"I'll be back in a minute." JoJo came out of the sliding door on the back porch in literally one minute.
"So, what do you want to hear?"
Alice spoke up, "American Pie."
"Ok, but y'all will have to sing."
Samantha was amazed at the music that transpired. JoJo played ok, but his parents sang great!
When the song was over, Samantha exclaimed, "Wow! That was super-cool!"
Alice spoke for the family, "Thanks Samantha! Is there a song that you want to hear?"
"I would rather y'all pick the music."
And, that is just what happened. Dan and Alice called out song after song, and JoJo cranked them out. They hit most of their favorites: James Taylor's You Can Close Your Eyes; Elton John"s Someone Saved My Life Tonight; Harry Chapin's Cat's in the Cradle.
When they were finished, Samantha didn't know whether to cry or laugh. She simply said, "That was beautiful!!"
The Smiths thanked her. As Dan and Alice started to clean up, JoJo told his parents that he and Samantha were going to walk down to the Living Room.
"Don't be long. It will be dark soon." Alice conveyed in her motherly tone.

As they started walking through a wooded-area, Samantha stopped.
"I thought we were going to the Living Room."
"It's a kinda Outdoor Living Room."
The 2 walked for about five minutes through woods and brush until they finally reached a cleared out area. Sure enough there were stools and a 'couch' carved out of wood. The 2 sat on the couch.
They talked about supper and the songs for a little while.
Suddenly JoJo said, "I am not good with this kinda thing, but I have a question for you, Samantha."
"Shoot."
"Will you be my girlfriend?"
"I don't know...I have several offers...my hamburger was kinda burnt...OF COURSE, JOJO!"
Before JoJo knew it, Samantha was hugging him.
Before he knew it, JoJo was kissing Samantha.
The two enjoyed the moment. Then, they heard a high-pitched whistle.
"That's my dad," JoJo disappointingly said.
The love birds walked back hand-in-hand---until they got within eye-sight of JoJo's parents. They both were a little shy.
Alice said, "JoJo help me with this To-Go-Plate for Samantha."
"Yes mam."
"Dan is pulling the car around for y'all. Samantha, may we pick you up for church in the morning?"
"Yes mam, please. And, thanks for EVERYTHING!"
"Remember, you made me feel great!"
Samantha just smiled. The two piled into the Smithmobile and Dan took Samantha home.
When Samantha got home. She ate some of her To-Go-Plate. Then, she got down on her knees.
God, you are good. I wasn't sure what good meant until I met the Smiths, then I met you! I love you, Lord. Please help my momma. Lord, also help me to be a witness for you. In Jesus name. Amen.

JoJo 15.2; Samantha Gets a New Bible

"Mom, can Samantha come over for lunch?"
"Of course! Do you want me to pick her up?"
"That would be cool."
"JoJo, do you mind if I go alone?"
"Sure, but why?"
"Oh, I want to have girl talk with Samantha."
In his best Rocky imitation, JoJo said, "ABSOLUTELY."
"Ha. That never gets old, son."
"Aww, I bet you say that to all your sons."
"OK Mr. Cornball."

Alice decided this was kind of a mission trip. She wanted to make certain that Samantha owned her own Bible. The two had gotten pretty close, and Alice knew Samantha was reading a Bible from somewhere. About 20 minutes later, Alice pulled up at Samantha's trailer. It had taken Samantha several weeks to get comfortable with the idea of the Smiths seeing her place of residence. Samantha popped out of the trailer wearing the clothes Alice had bought her.
"Hey, Mrs. Smith!"
"Hello Dear!"
"How are you today?"
"Samantha I am pretty good, but you could help make me feel great."
"Sure. What do you want me to do?"
Alice jumped right into her plan. "Do you believe the Bible is important?"
"Yes mam!"
"Good! What Bible do you read?"
"My grandma's old Bible. It is kinda hard to understand, plus several pages are missing."
"I see. Would you mind if we go shopping?"
"Never. Ha!"

The two stopped at the local Christian Bookstore, Believe.
Alice told Samantha that the way she could make her feel great was by picking out her own Bible, and she would buy it for her.
Samantha objected, but then said, "I REALLY appreciate this, Mrs. Smith!"
They looked at almost every version, size, and color of Bible. Finally, Samantha decided on a green Living Bible.
"This is much easier to understand than my grandma's version."
"Oh Samantha, I feel great! Thanks!"
Samantha seemed to always know how to handle situations--unlike JoJo.
"Mrs. Smith, I feel great that I made you feel great."
They left the store with Samantha clutching her new Bible. She stared at it all the way to the Smiths' house. Alice really did feel great.

When the two arrived at the Smiths, the Smith men were grilling hamburgers.

Samantha whispered a prayer, Thank you, Lord! Not only did He provide Samantha this family and food, but also a Bible!
"Hey Samantha!"
"Hey JoJo!"
There was something relaxed about their greeting. There was no longer any pressure to keep their true feelings from one another.

JoJo 15.1; JoJo is a Lug

JoJo finally went to bed at midnight that Friday. It was the most comfortable night's sleep he had experienced in a month. Tommy and JoJo had made up. The thing that gnawed at him in the back off his mind for too long----admitting to himself that he might like Samantha---he knew was true.

Jo awoke at 11:30. He usually watched Bandstand, but he wasn't feeling it. The boy was somehow still wrestling with given in to the admittance of his liking Samantha. He fumbled through his music and found 10cc; I'm Not In Love. JoJo sang along. I'm not in love. It's just a silly phase I'm going through...

About that time the phone rang.
JoJo released a sleepy "Hello."
"Are you up, Jo?"
It was Samantha! Crap! "Oh. Hey, Samantha."
"Are you listening to 10cc? Is it oldie hour?"
"Ha. It's not that old." Oh, no! She heard this song! Hope she doesn't think it is about her!
"You're right. Also, I am wrong about something else."
"What?"
"I was wrong to go to the Show with Tommy."
"Why?"
"I was trying to make you jealous, you big lug!"
"Really?"
"Uhh. Yea."
"OK. It did make me mad. But, Tommy called me last night. We had a good talk."
"Go on."
"Not to get into details, but he resolved some personal issues. I was one of them."
"So y'all worked everything out?"
"Yea."
"So, what are you doing today?"
"Nothing. You?"
"Nothing."
JoJo almost blew it. He was about to see if Samantha wanted to come over after lunch, but he remembered she probably had not eaten. (And, he was right.)
"Do you want to come for lunch Samantha? Then we can hang out."
"Sure. Is it ok with your parents?"
"Yea, I better check. I haven't been awake long."
"No kidding."
"Do I sound that sleepy?"
"Just a little."
"Let me check with Alice and call ya back."
The two hung up, and JoJo started to go downstairs. Then it hit him. JoJo had made a commitment to do a devotion every morning. He prayed, then read the Proverb for the corresponding date.
It was Saturday, March 6th. When Jo got to verses 23 & 24 of Chapter 6, it seemed appropriate for Samantha. 23 For the commandment is a lamp, and the law a light; Reproofs of instruction are the way of life, 24 To keep you from the evil woman, from the flattering tongue of a seductress.
JoJo thought to himself, Samantha is a good girl, especially for all she's been through. It is settled. I am asking her out.

JoJo 14.5; Fire Confronts Tommy

"Son, where have you been?"
"Out on a date, Pops!"
"With who?"
"Oh, a little chicky dee."
"Uh huh. Does this have anything to do with JoJo?'
Tommy felt naked in front of his daddy. How did he know??
"Sir?"
"Tommy, we are both blessed in so many ways. Would you agree with that?"
"Sure, Daddy." Tommy was wondering where this conversation was going.
"I've watched you for the last year. Year and a half. You are not the same Tommy."
At that moment, God convicted Tommy. He knew exactly what Fire was talking about. But, he decided to play dumb.
"How so?"
"Son, I was lost. Going to Hell. I saw a spark in you! That spark was Christ. I also saw it in Dan. God used the two of you and other people, other things, and His Spirit to bring me over to his side."
At first Tommy just sat there. He remembered the courageous young man of God he used to be.
What happen? He thought
Fire spoke again, "I owe you big time, Tommy. So here goes....That spark is not in your eyes. You have quit listening and playing Christian music. I told you before: I am not against your rock music as long as you listen and play Christian music. I believe music feeds the soul. You are starving your soul by not listening to God's music. One more thing...you have quit going to church."
Again, Tommy just sat there. He had been running from God. And, he had fooled himself to think otherwise.
Finally Tommy managed, "Dad, I feel lost."
"Good news, Buddy. You aren't lost. You have just lost your way."
"What do you mean?"
"I know you still love God, but you have been running from him."
"Daddy, you're right."
"The reason you don't want to go to church is you will be convicted. You know the Light, which is Jesus. Your life style has made you ashamed to go near the Light. Son, most of us go through these times."
"Really?"
"Absolutely! We battle our flesh, evil, and the world!"
"What can I do?!"
"You need to get right with God."
"How?"
"Pray. Confess your sins. Allow Him to forgive you. Let God wash over you. Read the Bible."
Tommy replied, "I have not read the Bible in so long, I don't know where to begin."
"Two suggestions: 1)Each morning read the Proverb that corresponds with that day's date. 2) At night, read a chapter from John."
"Ok. Sounds good. What else?"
"Start going to church. Many things will work themselves out when you go to worship."
Tommy was grateful God had changed his father. At one time, he was the spiritual leader of his father. Now, his father---like Fire said---was returning the favor.
"I am going to go talk with God in my room. Thanks, daddy."
The older Wildfire and the younger Wildfire hugged. It had been a while.
"Tommy, holler if you need me."
"I will, Dad. Thanks."
When Tommy got to his room, he got still and talked with God. Something weird happened. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw JoJo. After 3 times, Tommy got it. He had been rotten to JoJo.
Tommy swallowed hard and picked up the phone and dialed a familiar number.
JoJo answered. "Hello."
"Hey, JoJo."
"Tommy? Are you OK?"
"Well, kinda. No, not really."
"What's wrong?"
"JoJo, for a long time now, I have been chasing after the wrong thing. I began to hate myself. Heck, I didn't realize it until I talked to my Daddy tonight...Earthly and Heavenly."
"Wow! I am sorry, Tommy."
"JoJo, I am the one who is sorry. I apologize for trying to wreck your life. I realized the only reason I was striking out at you in hate, was because I hated myself. Will you forgive me, Buddy?
"Sure, Pal."
"By the way...There is nothing between Samantha and me. We went to the show tonight, but we were both miserable."
"Really?"
"Yea, Bro. Why don't you ask her out."
"I believe that is a good idea, Tommy."
"I know it's late. I will not keep you. Thanks for understanding."
"Sure, Buddy. Thanks for calling."
The two hung up, and God smiled.

Lessons from the Lord through Dr. Kevin Elko

Yesterday, I had a God moment when I turned to the Paul Finebaum Show. God works in mysterious ways! Paul's guest, Dr. Kevin Elko, is a Sports Consultant for college and pro football teams. His clients include Alabama and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Dr. Elko was used by God to capture my attention (and I predict all Paul's viewers).
The first thing that grabbed me was an account of his recent heart attack. He said he had many injuries, but the 20 minutes of his heart attack was far worse. Yet, he was at peace. Dr. Elko is the master of succinct powerful phrases. He said the heart attack was a wake-up call, and he didn't even know he needed one! He has since changed his diet and runs. Also, each day Dr. Elko does something that is simple, but powerful. He recites the 23rd Psalm. He usually does this twice a day. His key phrase for the after-math of the heart attack:
IT DIDN'T HAPPEN TO ME, IT HAPPENED FOR ME.
Just let that roll around in your head and reach your soul. It reminds me of Romans 8:28
And we know God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
I have loved the part about God causing all things to work together for the good of those who love God for years, but it just hit me about the second part. An interpretation that I never thought about prior---God causes all these things to work to accomplish God's purposes for each of us.
TOO COOL!

Paul took callers during the show. The manner in which Dr. Elko answered the calls was a blessing to me. He would speak to the caller by name. He would speak words of life and positivity and appreciation (when appropriate).
One example was a veteran who was paralyzed and recently discovered he had contracted Parkinson's disease. The caller thanked Dr. Elko. Much of the doc's advice was DO NOT have self-pity. The caller was encouraged and grateful. However, Dr. Elko expressed appreciation to this veteran for his service. Dr. Elko did not look for any accolades.
Another example was a pastor from Texas. He had many gracious words for Dr. Elko. However, Dr. Elko told the pastor that what he was doing as a pastor was much more important than his own work.

Dr. Elko spoke about talking to himself. He used Bible verses such as being courageous. He claimed God's Word---even if he had to tell himself more than once. Our decisions are what are important, not our feelings. (I think that is one lesson Alabama uses.)

The final lesson for me: Listen to people, Learn from people, and Help people.

JoJo 14.4; Tommy takes Samantha to the Show

Tommy and Samantha walked into the Beauty Theater on Main Street that unusually cold night in early March of 1976. Wonder Woman, the movie, came out in January, but it had taken 2 months to make its way to Smallville. The two were excited. Not about being with each other---they were using each other to get at JoJo. The thought of Wonder Woman on the big screen was going to be cool!

Meanwhile, JoJo sat in his room stewing. He was rocking out to KISS, when his momma called him to supper.
JoJo yelled back, "I'm not hungry."
Within ten seconds, his mother and father were at his door thinking the boy was dying. They had never heard the words 'I am not hungry' come from JoJo's mouth.
Alice started, "Son, lie down!"
Dan chimed in, "Should I call the doctor?"
JoJo shot back, "What in the world are you talking about?"
They were all practically screaming due to the volume level of JoJo's stereo.
Finally Dan yelled, "Turn that mess down!!"
JoJo turned the music down, and asked again, "What are you talking about?"
"Son, you are 14-years-old. You have never uttered the words 'I'm not hungry,'" Dan explained.
"Oh...I...I..." JoJo didn't know what to say.
Alice was still concerned. "JoJo, we just want to know if you are alright."
"I'm fine. May I eat in a little while?"
Both parents agreed, hugged JoJo, and went back downstairs.

Back at the Beauty Theater....
Tommy said, "So, tell me Samantha...what's going on with you and JoJo?"
"We're just friends."
"Oh, so he didn't mind me taking you to the show?"
"Hmmm. I really don't know."
A sly grin crept over Tommy's face.
Samantha chided him, "Be quiet. The movie has started."

JoJo decided his rocking out may have released some pressure, but he was still angry. He turned on his latest Pat Terry album. He hoped the Christian music would calm him. Amazingly, it did. Then, he began to have a conversation with God like he had never had before.
Hey Heavenly Daddy. I know you are running the whole world, and maybe my problem is small. After all....I am saved. Thanks, Jesus. I have 2 parents. I have a home. I am healthy. I love music. God, there are so many things I am thankful for...
Then it hit JoJo...
I am really thankful for Samantha. 
I know you brought her into my life. into my family's life. Lord, I like her. You know what I mean. I want her to be my girlfriend. I confess I was a little worried what others might think if...if (a tear fell from JoJo's eye) I asked her out. Because she's poor. (Now, JoJo was sobbing.) Daddy, I ain't nothing without you. Forgive me for thinking I was something because of the things you have given me! Please don't let it be too late for Samantha and me.
JoJo grabbed his Bible to find the verse he read that morning.
Proverbs 11:16; A gracious woman retains honor, but ruthless men retain riches.
Lord, Samantha is a gracious woman, and so is my momma. My dad and me care too much about riches. Forgive us! Help us to treat our women right.
JoJo almost fell asleep. He was at peace. He knew Samantha was his girl. He forgave Tommy. JoJo accepted God's forgiveness, and headed downstairs for some food. He was starving!!

JoJo 14.3: Tommy Goes Vicious!

The time had inched its way into March. JoJo was lost in thought during first period. He had no idea Tommy was shooting a spit ball at him, while concurrently Sammy shot a spitball at Mr. Snooze! Both were direct hits! Tommy's plan was for JoJo to jerk around quickly just as Snooze got hit. It would look like JoJo was the culprit. Plus, Tommy stashed a straw in JoJo's back pocket just prior to class.

"Hey! What in the..." Mr. Snooze shouted.

He turned around to see JoJo jump around as he was hit. Tommy's plan had worked.

Mr. Snooze stared at JoJo as only a teacher can. He barked, "JoJo Smith, out of my class. NOW!"

"But, Mr. Snooze. I didn't..."

"Don't I didn't me! And don't act coy JoJo Boy!"

JoJo had pulled off tricks throughout his student career, and he knew he had been the punch line of a great one. "Yessir."

JoJo went outside. He leaned up against the wall outside Mr. Snooze's classroom and prayed.

Lord, I deserve to be punished because of all the tricks I have pulled over the years. My prayer is I am truthful and forgiving.

Ten minutes later, Snoozed walked into the hall. 

"JoJo, what am I going to do with you. That spitball not only hurt, it was totally embarrassing!"

"Mr. Snooze, here's the truth."

"This should be good."

JoJo knew he had already lost. "I am sorry you got hit with a spitball. I promise I did not intend for that to happen." JoJo told the truth and took blame for an act he didn't do.

"I see. Detention tomorrow."

"Yessir."

After class, Tommy and Sammy left so fast JoJo couldn't find them. However, he ran into Samantha.

"Hey Samantha!"

"Hey JoJo!"

In the last 2 weeks, the two 'friends' had gotten a little mushy.

"I like your shirt, JoJo."

"Thanks, I like your slacks."

"Ha, you can thank your momma for them."

"Hey, don't talk about my momma."

"Huh, she likes me more than you."

"Think you are right."

"Don't cry now."

"Nah. I am bummed about a weird event that just happened."

JoJo explained everything to Samantha. Then, her words sent him into a rage.

"Tommy is crazy. As a matter of fact, he is creepy. He called me last night."

CALLED YOU LAST NIGHT?! JoJo turned red as fire, but he tried to cover his anger.

"Oh yea, what did the goober say?"

"He asked me to go to the show this Friday night."

"Really?"

"Yea."

"And..."

"I said OK." Samantha was tired of JoJo creeping around the issue of them being more than friends. She decided to push his buttons.

"Hope y'all have a good time."

"Thanks. Gotta go to class. She ya."

"OK. See ya."

Tommy had gone too far. Because of him, JoJo had Detention. Now, Tommy asked his girl out. Then it hit JoJo...Samantha was not his girl! But, Tommy knew.....

JoJo 14.2; Meanwhile....

Meanwhile...On a cold February day, Jane, Debra, and Alan had saved seats for JoJo and Samantha at their usual spot in the cafeteria. Samantha arrived two minutes before JoJo.

Alan practically yelled, "Samantha, over here!"
"Oh. Hey y'all."
Debra siad, "I like your blouse. Blue is a good color for you!"
Samantha was so grateful for Mrs. Smith at that moment.
"Thanks, Debra. Jane, I like your outfit."
Jane had a killer 70s outfit! She had matching jean jacket and pants. It radiated COOL.
"Thanks, Samantha! Where's JoJo?"
"He should be here..."
Just then JoJo was aimlessly wandering around the lunchroom.
Once again, Alan practically yelled, "JoJo, join us!"
"Oh, hey guys!"
The four in unison said, "Hey JoJo."
Jane turned to JoJo and said, "What's up?"
"Nothing much. I have learned so much today!!"
Silence....
JoJo said, "Uh, Sarcasm y'all."
Everyone laughed and the conversation continued.
Strangely, JoJo couldn't keep his eyes off of Samantha.
She could see him out of the corner of her eye. Her lack of confidence led her to believe something was wrong with her appearance, the words she was using, or maybe she smelled. But none of that was true. JoJo found her really cute. He had not seen her cuteness before. He didn't stop to wonder why.
After lunch, the sophomores went their way, and JoJo expected to walk with Samantha to class. However, she split. She practically ran from JoJo. He started to call out for her to stop. But he was speechless. His mouth would not move.
That night JoJo called Samantha 3 times, before she finally answered.
"Bout time."
Silence...
"Samantha??"
"I am here."
"Why did you leave so fast after lunch today?"
"What was wrong with me during lunch? And, why didn't you let me know? I felt embarrassed in front of the sophomores!"
JoJo was clueless. "What the heck are you talking about, Girl?"
"You stared at me the entire lunch!!"
OH CRAP! JoJo thought to himself. "Uhhh. I was?"
"You know darn well you were! Why!!" Samantha was tearing up.
JoJo had to think fast. He couldn't tell her the truth.
"Samantha, there was NOTHING wrong with you at lunch today."
"Really"--as she choked back tears.
"NO!"
"Then why the heck were you staring?"
"I dunno."
Then it hit Samantha...He thought I was cute. Hmmmm
"I'm sorry. Sometimes, I get paranoid."
Neither one of them would let on what really happened, so they went back to normal conversation.
"Wow, did you see Mr. Ruler bust his head on the cabinet today?"
"I think everyone did, JoJo."
"I guess so. But, it was great!"
"Do you hate teachers?"
"No, I don't hate them. I just feel we are at war."
"Really?"
"Yes! They tell us one thing and do another."
"Like what? When?"
"Like last week. Old Lady Right told us to study Chapters 1 & 2 for our test."
"And..."
"I studied them for three days. On the test, there was material from the first 4 chapters. I made a 70!'
"That is raunchy. What else?'
"Well...Early this semester, Mr. Quiz told me I had a big mouth."
"Uh Huh...you do."
JoJo laughed. "True. But, then he said he was going to close it for me. And the entire class laughed at me.'"
"That is pretty rotten."
"Anyway. They are not as perfect as they want us to be."

JoJo 14.1; What's Up With Tommy?

Something was different about Tommy. He was kinda mean. However, he was the leader of a small group of boys who thought Tommy was cool.

About a year back, Tommy quit the Youth Band. A month later, he quit going to church.
His dad, Fire asked him, “Why did you drop out of the Youth Band, Son?”
Tommy told the truth. “Dad, some of the boys are calling me a Choir Boy! That does not sound like a man.”
Fire responded, “Using your musical gift for the Lord is being a man in God’s eyes.”
“I see what you mean.”
However, Tommy told his dad that just to satisfy him. After all, he had a reputation to keep!
Tommy had always listened to a combination of Pop/Rock and Contemporary Christian. Since, he quit going to church, he was simply rock & roll. His dad couln't help but overhear the music coming from his room. One day, Fire asked Tommy about it.
“Son, are you strictly rock & roll now?”
“Yessir.”
“What happen to your Christian music?”
“I am giving it a rest.”
“I see.”
“Dad, is there anything wrong with rock & roll?”
“With the exception of a few weird bands, I don’t think so. However..”
Here we go, thought Tommy.
“The rock music of this world is just that.”
“Huh? I mean, sir?”
“Tommy, things of the world tend to keep us worldly.”
“Uhhhh. Sir.”
“Do you remember the verse Romans 12:2?”
“Uhhh. I do not…”
“It states, ‘Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.’”
“I remember.”
“God uses many avenues to transform us. He uses His Word, prayer, worship, preaching, teaching, serving, obedience, MUSIC, and more.”
“So you are saying Rock Music is bad for me?”
“No. I am saying if all the music you put in your ear and soul is rock, then you are copying the world and not allowing God to transform your mind. I wish you would play or at least listen to some Christian music.”
“Do I have to?”
“No.”
“Cool.”
“Cool. What does that mean?”
“I am Straight Out Rock & Roll, Daddy!”
“Hmmm. OK."
Fire knew that forcing Tommy to listen to Christian music was stupid. He needed to WANT to listen to it. So, Fire decided to pray. God can change all hearts. Plus, he knows boys (and girls) go through phases.
Tommy called his knew buddy Slick.
“Hey Slick!”
“What’s up. Tommy Boy Boy?!”
“Man, by dad just gave me a lecture about music.”
“Bummer, Dude.”
“Nah Man. He said I could listen to whatever kind of music I wanted.”
Somehow the rest of Fire and Tommy's conversation fell on deaf ears. Or did it??
Fire’s words exposed Tommy to the truth. What’s more, God’s words had been heard and were in his heart.
Isaiah 55:11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.

Live in the Knowledge of My Life in Christ or Live in the Court of Public Opinion?

Live in the Knowledge of My LIfe in Christ or Live in the Court of Public Opinion?
                                                   THE MARY PRINCIPLE

This morning, I could feel a sub-conscious concern about “what others were thinking about me.” If we allow this to happen to ourselves, we are condemned in “The Court of Public Opinion” for allowing ourselves to be affected—sub-consciously or consciously. It boils down to answering the following question.
Do I want to live a life that pleases people or a life that pleases God?
Psalm 37:1-4 (NLT)
1. Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong.
2. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers, they soon wither.
3. Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
4. Take delight in the Lord, and we will give you your hearts's desire.

God used the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus to help me realize the proper answer to the question posed in the title. Let’s consider Mary. Hebrew tradition tells us Mary was a young to middle teen when the angel visited her with the news about Jesus.
Luke 1:26-38 (NLT)
26. In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee,
27. to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David.
28. Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!”
29. Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean.
30. “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God!
31. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.
32. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David.
33. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end.”
34. Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”
35. The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God.
36. What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month.
37. For the word of God will never fail.”
38. Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.

The first lesson learned is Mary had pleased God and he chose her to be Jesus’ momma. We need to please God and be ready for His Devine assignments.
Second, Mary believed the angel. She did not dismiss this as some weird state of mind or illusion or her mind playing tricks on her. Why? She knew God and she knew this news was from him.
Third, the angel testified to the miracle of Elizabeth. (We can learn from the miracle of Elizabeth as well. Especially when we are told something is impossible.)
Fourth, the angels words, “For the word of God will never fail,” should be a key to our faith. A key to our life.
Fifth, Mary’s response was a commitment to the Lord and a yielding to his plan for her life.

Let’s pretend we have never seen a Bible. We are not 2000 years-post Christ’s time on this earth. We are in the time of history written in the verses from Luke 1:26-38. We watch Mary’s life unfold.
First, when she told people she was pregnant via God, she was called a liar by EVERYONE…even her own family.
Second, God convinced her fiancé Joseph that what Mary said was true. (See: Matthew 1:18-21.)
Third, Mary was an easy target of ridicule for the rest of her life. Only believers would not ridicule her, and this was only after Jesus’ Resurrection.
Fourth, Mary never wavered.
Fifth, Mary pleased God by believing, receiving, and carrying out his plan.
Sixth, due to Herod’s desire to kill the King of the Jews, she and Joseph had to live on the run until Herod died.
Seventh, the couple took Jesus back to their home town of Nazareth. They were probably met with love from some and jeers from others.

As I look at my life, I need to do the following:
First, please God over pleasing people.
Second, continue to seek God and know him more and more.
Third, don’t allow any voices other than the Voice of Truth have an affect on me.
Fourth, when God gives a Word for my life, I must believe, receive, and carry it out.
Fifth, trust God no matter what.
Sixth, when I mess up, fess up. Talk to God in a real way. Seek and receive His forgiveness.
Seventh, be open to people changing. Don’t be afraid to “go home.”

The following verse is the answer to myself. It is the final lesson of The Mary Principle.
Matthew 7:7 are Jesus’ words…
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.”

JoJo 13.4; Big Time

February 28, 1976

As JoJo entered the lunchroom that morning, he was met with laughs.
He quickly figured out the laughs were directed towards him.
He could only imagine...This must be about Samantha and yesterday...
"What's up, guys?"
Tommy stepped up, "You tell us, Romeo."
"Huh?"
Tommy continued, "Don't play coy with the boys. We heard about you and your girlfriend going to church together yesterday."
"oh."
Tommy bit in deeper, "So, you admit it, huh?"
JoJo kept his cool. "Samantha went to church with us, but she is NOT my girlfriend."
Stacy jumped in. "Word has it...she also went to your house."
Oh Brother! "This is true."
Stacy patted JoJo on the back. "Glad you FINALLY got a girlfriend. Ha Ha!!"
Now JoJo prayed: Lord, help me.
Suddenly the bell rang. JoJo quickly left the guys.

JoJo continued to pray: Lord, I know it was the right thing to invite Samantha to church and help feed her. But, God, it's High School. I don't want to be the laughing stock.
Immediately JoJo remembered the text for the sermon from yesterday:
Matthew 5:11 "God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things about you because you are my followers."
Ok, God, that was cool the way You brought that to my memory. Your will be done over mine.

Finally, lunch time. He had already decided he was going to ask Samantha to sit with him at lunch.
As he scanned the lunchroom, his mouth fell open when he saw Samantha waving for him to join her. The surprise was who she was sitting with. 2 Sophomore girls and 1 Sophomore boy. All three of them were in the Youth Sunday school class yesterday. They recognized Samantha, and asked her to join them. Wow!!

JoJo wasn't even sure if they knew his name. He knew them: Debra, Jane, and Alan.
To his dismay, Alan said, "Join us JoJo!"
"Sure, Alan. Thanks."
He looked at the 2 sophomore girls in a bewildering way.
They laughed. Debra said, "JoJo, it's funny that we have never really talked."
All Jo could mange was, "yea."
Again the girls laughed. This time Jane said, "Relax, JoJo. We don't bite."
"OK. Good."
At that, everybody laughed, even Samantha.
Alan said, "We were enjoying talking to Samantha." The girls smiled and nodded.
What do I say?? 
 "Oh good." "Hey, Samantha."
"Hey JoJo."
Debra asked, "So are y'all like girlfriend & boyfriend?"
Samantha answered before JoJo. "No, we are just really good friends."
Alan said, "Cool." The girls nodded in approval.
The Sophomores talked about their classes some. Then, they talked about church. Their discussion amongst themselves was really interesting. JoJo and Samantha just listened.
The bell rang indicating lunch was over.
Debra said, "Would y'all consider having lunch with us tomorrow?"
JoJo and Samantha looked at each other for a moment, then they replied in unison, "Yea."

Two tables over, Tommy was stewing. He really wanted to bring JoJo down--for some reason--but he knew JoJo had hit the Big Time: Eating lunch with Sophomores. And 2 of them are girls!!
Tommy would think up a new plan to hurt JoJo....

JoJo 13.1; Samantha Has Lunch With The Smiths

"More carrots, Samantha?" Alice asked
"Yes mam. Thank you!"
"You are welcome."
Dan chimed in. "Did you like church, Samantha?"
"Oh, yes sir. Especially the music!"
"Good."
JoJo interrupted, "I feel like we are grilling Samantha. Can't we just eat?"
Samantha quickly said, "It's alright, JoJo. I am enjoying myself immensely."
"Oh, cool." JoJo quickly replied.

After lunch, JoJo and Remi invited Samantha to play Monopoly.
"I have never played before."
JoJo reassured her. "If Remi can play, I think you can pick it up."
Remi, oblivious to the insult added, "Yea, if me can do it, you can do it."
Samantha laughed and agreed to play.
After 2 hours and 15 minutes, the three Monopoly players decided to call it quits. The game seemed like it was never going to end.
Samantha asked Alice for a ride home.
JoJo was surprised Samantha would feel comfortable enough to ask his mom anything.
"Sure, let me get my keys."
"I had a wonderful day! Thank you, Mr. Smith and Remi."
"What about me?" JoJo frustratedly asked.
"Of course, you big lug. Aren't you going to ride with your mom and me?"
"Oh. Sure."
Samantha insisted on being dropped off at the Grubb & Gas. She thanked Mrs. Smith and JoJo.
"I'll see ya tomorrow at school, Samantha."
"See ya."

The next day at school would have a few surprises for both JoJo and Samantha.

JoJo 12.5; Samantha and Church??

JoJo was tired of wondering if Samantha would listen! He found her mom's name in the phone book, and dialed the number. (That is what you literally did in 1976.)
"Hello."
"Hey Samantha!"
"Who is this?"
"It's JoJo!!"
"I know, Silly."
"oh...what ya doin?"
"Nothing."
"You?"
"Nothing."
***NOTE: This is typical teenage phone talk if you are too old to remember or never had lived during this time period.***
After a few seconds of silence, JoJo cleared his throat. "Samantha, would you like to go to church tomorrow?"
CHURCH, Samantha thought..."CHURCH?!"
"Well, yea. My family goes each Sunday, and I was wondering if you could eat lunch with my family afterwards."
FOOD!!!!!!!! Samantha thought. "I don't know, JoJo."
"Why not?"
"I don't exactly have 'church clothes.'"
"We just wears jeans and a T-Shirt at my church." Of course it really wasn't JoJo's church---it was God's church, but people get in the habit of claiming their church. Often times, it is because they love their church. But sometimes, it can be an Ownership Thing. Thankfully, JoJo's claim was the former.
"Oh..."
After 7 seconds of silence, JoJo asked again, "Do you want to come...please?"
WOW...Please "Will I have to stand up or anything?"
"No Way!"
"Have you asked your mom about lunch?"
"No. Hold on. MOM, CAN ONE OF MY FRIENDS COME OVER FOR LUNCH TOMORROW?"
After JoJo's mom answered in the affirmative, JoJo told Samantha it was fine.
"Well, what time?"
"About 9:45 to pick you up. Where do you live?"
"You can pick me up across from the Grubb & Gas that is near our school." There was no way Samantha was going to let anybody see where she lived.

Samantha was thankful that JoJo's parents didn't ask too many questions. As a matter of fact, they seemed kind of cool. Samantha had done her best to make herself presentable, but she was still extremely vulnerable to any off comments about her appearance. As the Smiths and Samantha arrived at Church, she immediately scanned the crowd for anyone who knew her.
Great! No familiar faces! Samantha thought. Surprisingly, none of the kids at school were there. Even Tommy had stopped coming a few months back.

As the service began, Samantha could not believe her ears. They were playing rock music--right there in the church. The people of Smallville called the church, Rock and Roll Worship. It was often scored at. But, Samantha loved it--to her tremendous surprise. When worship was over, the Youth met in their own room. It was a nice room, but the prettiest thing there were chocolate-covered doughnuts! Samantha quickly found out they were free. She slickly ate 3 of them. After all, she hadn't eaten in 20 hours.

At 11:23, Ms. Prissy made a few announcements. Five minutes later, the high school students went to their own room. They talked about their week and the sermon. Neither JoJo or Samantha contributed to the conversation, but both listened intently. What seemed like a fast 20 minutes, the class ended.
JoJo asked, "Are you ready for lunch, Samantha?"
"Not at all."
"Really?!"
"No, NOT REALLY. I am really hungry!"
"Good, Mom made a big lunch in the Crock Pot."
Samantha just smiled.

JoJo 12.4; The Secret Life of Samantha

Samantha's family lived in an old trailer. It had been in the family for 3 generations. Needless to say, it stunk! It had holes in the floor. The trailer was hot in the summer and cold in the winter. The plumbing often was torn up.

Samantha's mother's name was Jane. She did the best she could to make ends meet. Jane worked 3 jobs. None of them paid well, but her lack of education and lack of opportunity in a small town limited her options. Samantha's father died when she was 4-years-old. Jane had hooked up with several men, and they were all losers. One of them had abused Samantha. Fortunately, he moved to a different state. However, these horrific events caused Samantha to not trust adults, especially men. Samantha's Aunt Trudy lived next door--also in a very old trailer. Trudy, like Jane, worked 3 jobs. Since she had no kids of her own, Samantha was the apple of her eye. Trudy bought clothes for Samantha. They were often out of style or the wrong size, but they didn't stink. Due to the plumbing problems and no Laundry Mat in the vicinity, Samantha's clothes often stunk. This gave cause for the girls at school to tease her unmercifully. This began in first grade and it had continued through her present freshman year. Samantha estimated that someone had insulted, pushed, or bullied her in 90% of the days she had gone to school. One would think Samantha would avoid school because of this, but the two meals she received compliments of the government persuaded her to NEVER miss a day. Samantha always bathed--unless Jane couldn't afford the Water Bill, but her clothes were hardly ever washed properly. For this reason, Samantha often wore her coat all day---even if it were 90 degrees. This often resulted in a cold or some other minor sickness, so Samantha often went to school sickly. But, she needed that breakfast and lunch. Of course, she had learned to eat very fast so that she could avoid other students. That leads us to evening meals (or lack of). Jane bought what was on sale and expired items. Sometimes the food was so rotten, Samantha chose hunger. She would go to her room and write in her journal. Samantha was an excellent writer. As a matter of fact she was great in English classes. She had ALWAYS gotten an A in English. She did the minimum to pass the other classes. BTY, weekend meals were often nonexistent. This caused another problem. Samantha would scrape together all the coins she could find during the week, then on Saturdays, she hit the Grubb & Gas (local convenience/gas store). Here she would steal, mostly junk food, while buying one small item with the coins she had scavenged.

Meanwhile, at JoJo's house...
"I am about to bust from that lunch, Hon!" Dan managed to squeak out, while laying on the sofa with his belly hanging out.
JoJo quipped, "Mom, can we quit having steak? That's the third time this week!"
Alice was doing laundry in another room. She yelled back, "JoJo, remember kids are starving in Africa! Be grateful! Bedsides, we have half a cow in the freezer that we need to eat!"
Remi said, "I am thankful for all I have! I know a little boy named Sam. He don't have noooo food sometime. Me feel sorry for him...."
Immediately, Dan and JoJo were convicted.
Dan said, "Thanks Remi."
"For what, Papa?"
"For reminding me how fortunate we are. Plus, we need to help those kids in Africa. And maybe some kids in the United States of America."
"Oh, I see, Papa. Let's help em!"
JoJo knew who he needed to help--Samantha. But how??

Back at Samantha's trailer...
I wonder if JoJo could somehow help me with food?? Samantha wondered.

JoJo 12.3; Samantha Again

It had been three days since JoJo had apologized to Samantha. Plus, it had been three days since his friends ragged him for talking to Samantha. It was cold on that February day in 1976. JoJo waited in the lunchroom for the starting-school bell to ring. All of a sudden, Donald Dwarf--all 5'2" of him--jumped up and "whack" came down on almost top of JoJo's head with his class ring. Dwarf was so short that he made it only to the back top part of JoJo's head.

"HaHa, Freshman! Glad are you off of your waiver clause!" JoJo was now fresh meat for the Seniors once again, since it was the Second Semester.
"You, punk!" JoJo yelped at the Dwarf.
"Oh, little baby. Did I hit you too hard."
"Not at all. Too bad you are not tall enough to hit the top of my head!" JoJo knew the rule--don't get in a fight with one senior because that is equal to fighting all seniors. However, JoJo was ready to cold-cock Donald if he moved one step closer.
Donald sensing the imminent punch, turned around, waved his hand and continued his way down the hall.
That REALLY hurt, JoJo thought to himself. High school had so many problems! He wanted to make amends with Samantha--and she wouldn't let him. The fellers were making fun of JoJo when he talked to Samantha. And now, he was getting Wake-Up Calls from the Seniors again. On top of everything, he had a new schedule. There was the bell....

After a quick Homeroom, JoJo went to Science class. Mr. X. Plosion was his teacher. This man was way out there! He didn't talk---he yelled. And, he loved to call on students. This morning, he decided to pick on Tommy.
Plosion yells, "Mr. Wildfire!!"
"Yessir," Tommy screeched.
"Where is your homework?!"
"Uhhhh. I think my brother and I switched book bags or something. Cause I did EVERY problem."
"You're a LIAR, Wildfire!"
"Yessir...I forgot all about the homework..."
"No Problem! Unless you think After-school Detention is a problem, because you just received ONE day!!"
"No sir...no problem."
WOW, JoJo thought. Can I please go back to Jr High?!

Lunch finally arrived! JoJo made it to the lunchroom before his buddies. He carefully scoped out a place where no Upperclassmen sat. Lo & behold there was Samantha. She was at a table with another "outcast." JoJo walked straight to the table--on a mission.
"May I sit with y'all?"
Samantha responded, "Are you sure you want to do that JoJo?"
"Absolutely."
"Well then, grab some chair."
As JoJo sat, the other student got up and left.
"Guess he doesn't like your type, Ole Buddy."
JoJo thought, What type? Then he remembered all the bullying he and his friends had done. The merciless laughter. The belittling.
"I don't really blame him."
"Is this going to be Confession Time?"
"Well, maybe. I am just saying that I have been a punk to you and many people."
"And..."
"And! It has stopped for me!"
Samantha pushed further...What about your friends?"
"I can't speak for them."
"Fair enough."
JoJo took a bite of his hot dog, then he took a deep breath. "Do you think we could talk today?"
"I guess I did shut you down the other day. But, I do NOT want to hear about Jesus!"
"That's fine. We can talk about something else."
"Fine. You start."
JoJo could be feel the pressure. "How are your classes going?"
"I hate school. Next question."
"Do you have any hobbies?"
"I like music."
JoJo couldn't believe a civil comment came out of Samantha's mouth, but he was glad.
"Who's your favorite group?"
"The Stones."
"Cool."
Samantha decided to play along. "Who's your favorite group?"
"Foghat."
"Hmmm Didn't take you for a Foghat type a guy. Cool."
Samantha had a clock in her head for lunch, and it was blaring! This meant leave the cafeteria. She couldn't run the risk of being humiliated---again.
"JoJo, I need to run. See ya."
"OK, Samantha. See ya."
Just as Samantha was leaving, Tommy and the boys spotted her coming from JoJo's table. Thirty seconds later they invaded the table.
Tommy started, "She's not so bad."
JoJo knew he was in trouble. "What are you talking about, Tommy?" JoJo said Tommy loudly, mocking Plosion.
The guys laughed!
Tommy took "the punch" and countered with, "Your girlfriend is not so bad."
JoJo decided to play it off cool. "I agree."
All the guys let out, "Ooooooo."
JoJo decided to get up and leave. He could hear Tommy saying something followed by the fellas laughter. But, he really didn't care. He wanted to please God over men---boys in this case.

That night, Samantha wrote in her journal...
School was the same as always except for lunch. JoJo joined me at the risk of being teased by his friends. I really thinks he wants to be friends. But, I will not let my guard down. It could be a cruel joke. Still---Suicide is on pause.