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.....