PRECIOUS MEMORIES


Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Ten Things I am Thankful For This Thanksgiving

By Buddy Smith - with credit to my friend and pro-family leader, Linda Harvey, of Mission America for most of these
10. I am grateful for America’s abundance, which I hope never to take for granted. It’s not just Thanksgiving dinners, comfortable homes and material blessings. It’s her capitalism, the development of minds, hearts and ambition; freedom to be an entrepreneur, to be born in a slum and rise to become head of your company. It’s the spirit of enterprise combined with generosity that has made America great. I thank God that people are now alert to the threat of Marxism and determined to stop its takeover of America.

9. I am thankful for clean water, hot and cold; for sewer systems and sanitation. I am thankful for living in a community still at peace, without riots, barricades, police raids, roaming gangs. Our experience with this in America is relatively small; I pray that does not change. So much of the world lacks the basic comforts and stability we take for granted here.

8. I am grateful for the Tea Party and town hall people, for Americans who are rising up to speak and act lawfully against leftist corruption. We will prevail, in some fashion. I still believe that in the end, Americans will do what’s right.

7. I am grateful for being able to be a part of the pro-family, conservative movement. Selfishly, I cherish the wonderful friendships, the growth in discernment and discipline, which have reformed my scattered and impulsive ways. I thank God for challenging me to think in grander and more important terms than my comfortable little life. I deeply appreciate the pro-family warriors and alternative conservative media outlets, big and small organizations with dedicated professionals who toil with little material reward against great odds to hold back the tide of decadence and liberal fascism that threatens America. I believe that we will prevail, because we are doing the right thing.

6. For the blessings of good health and of being “fearfully and wonderfully made,” I praise God every day. For the availability in America of the world’s best health care, I thank Him. I also pray that the impersonal, unresponsive, wasteful and intrusive federal government does not become my family’s “physician.” I pray that America can dodge this very real bullet and that left-wing irresponsibility does not jeopardize the health and well-being of all.

5. I thank God for America’s national security, for all those known and unknown civilian and military professionals who work to secure our freedom every day, here and abroad, to protect us from enemies, declared and hidden. I am humbled when I understand the sacrifices, and deeply concerned about little children taught to defiantly refuse to pledge allegiance to our flag. God have mercy on these people and preserve us from this ignorance, replacing it with attitudes of honor and respect.

4. I am thankful for churches that still preach the Word of God, that “lift high the cross,” that have not bowed the knee to Baal, nor to strange man-made traditions, nor to the gods of self-help and therapy. I want to be taught every Sunday that it’s not all about me, that Jesus Christ was and always will be the central message.

3. For family, I am humbly and eternally grateful. For my parents and grandparents who gave me the greatest gift; a Christian home. My prayer is that my children and grandchildren will experience that advantage. I cherish the awesome privilege of being a father and a grandfather. I thank Him for my dear children and grandchildren all the love and laughter they have brought to my life. And for my amazing wife, Carol, I praise God every day. For her faith in God, for her devotion to our family, for her strong character, for her encouragement, patience, affection, loyalty and fun-loving personality, I cannot sing enough praises. I am truly a blessed man.

2. When I think about how far astray we humans so easily wander, I am humbled by the privilege of reading God’s Word every day. The Bible is such a magnificent gift to humanity. To think that God would have preserved and protected His revelation to us in such a practical form, is one more testimony to His greatness, power and love.

1. Above all, I am grateful for my savior, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed Himself on the cross for my sins and those of all who will come before Him. Then, showing Himself to be our eternal God and Creator, He rose from the grave and sent His Holy Spirit to live in the hearts of believers. Before this unfathomable truth, all other blessings pale. Thank you, Jesus, for being the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Who is and was and is to come!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Saturday, August 08, 2009

Rev. Cecil Williamson - evangel of good news!

I love this man and am eternally grateful to him for bringing me the Good News! Rev. Cecil Williamson is a dear friend and the preacher God used to bring me to salvation in 1970 while I was attending Holmes Junior College. He performed our wedding ceremony in 1972 and has shared in the baptisms and wedding ceremonies of our children. Carol and I traveled with Cecil for 15 months in his ministry of evangelism between our college and seminary days. Today, at 78, he and his wife Julie remain on the front lines of spreading the Gospel through their leadership of Christian World Missions - http://www.christianworldmissions.org/.

Cecil preached an excellent sermon at the Homecoming service this past Sunday at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church. Watch and listen to his message and send him an encouraging e-mail message today - Cecil@ChristianWorldMissions.org.

Rev. Cecil Williamson from Buddy Smith on Vimeo.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

It’s Campmeeting Time!


You Are Invited to the 138TH CAMPMEETING AT SOUTH UNION JULY 24 - 29, 2009. Services are daily at 8:30,11:00 a.m. and 3:00, 7:30 p.m. The preacher is Rev. Ron McDougal and song leaders are Buddy & Carol Smith with special guests "Still Blessed Trio" on Sunday Evening the Wells Brothers Quartet on Wednesday Evening. Rev. Bryan Carrubba is the pastor. Click here for a campmeeting promotional spot running on WFCA Christian radio station.
Campmeeting takes us back to a simpler time; just good old-fashioned worship of God under the open arbor with hymns like, “I’m Dwelling in Beulah Land,” “Revive Us Again” and “Love Lifted Me.” Campmeeting affords us the opportunity to worship and to teach our children to worship in the same place our ancestors did, in the same way. We can go back to a single, uncomplicated time and place and always know that God is with us and He loves us.
Carol and I are very grateful to be invited again to South Union Campmeeting. As children, Carol and I stayed in a (wooden) tent with our grandparents at South Union Campmeeting - established in 1872 and located in Choctaw County, Mississippi, about 3 miles north of Ackerman. We can remember campmeeting days at South Union when we had to haul the water from the spring and the floors under the open Tabernacle and in the tents were sawdust. We also remember the sight of altars covered with people seeking God and lives being changed. No, God does not need tents, tabernacles, sawdust, benches, or campgrounds to meet with us. But when we choose to set aside a special time to get away from the normal routine to seek God and to hear from Him, He will meet with us like at no other time. Our faith will be met with God’s faithfulness to, minister to us, drawing us ever closer to Him. Read the history of South Union. Read the dedication to our grandparents. (photo at left is my great grandmother Beulah at South Union in 1950 - second from left on front row)

My late grandfather Casey T. Smith (Paw Paw to me) was saved at South Union when he was 9 years old. The year was 1905. Paw Paw said that this was his decision (to accept Christ) and that he couldn't eat for a day and half after he accepted Jesus as his Savior. He couldn't describe the feeling but said, "it troubled Momma (the fact that he wouldn't eat anything) to the point that she threatened to whop me." Click here for family photos at South Union and history of the campmeeting movement. (photo at right is my grandfather Casey Smith at South Union School in 1913 - back row with X above him)

Paw Paw explained that Campmeeting at South Union was a very special event because people didn't travel much in those days and it provided a unique opportunity for fellowship. He recalled that before ice was available that they would go together and kill a beef and what was left over would be salted heavily and put into a hole in the ground behind the tent. He said that they had a chicken coup behind the tent and would get a couple out to cook each morning. Paw Paw explained that they had an underground box behind and would buy a 50 pound block of ice. He recalled that a one-horse wagon would deliver 100 pound blocks of ice from Ackerman to South Union at 15 cents a pound. He remembered the special times when they would make home made ice cream. (photo is 4 generations of Smith's at campmeeting: Casey M. Smith, III, Casey M. Smith, Jr., Casey T. Smith, Casey M. Smith, Sr.)

At the South Union Campmeeting this year you won’t pay a steep admission charge, and no one will ask you to buy hundreds of dollars worth of materials. No, you won’t be worshipping at the Ritz-Carlton twenty floors above the city streets, but then you won’t have to pay their price. The food won’t be steak or lobster. But your experience at campmeeting can definitely change your life. (photo is Buddy's parents - Joan & Marion Smith - at campmeeting in Marion's 1923 Model T)

Today many people believe the usefulness of the campmeeting has passed. They consider it an old mode of operation that needs to be put to sleep. We strongly disagree. Instead of allowing the campmeeting to die we should renew our efforts to bring it to new life. Far from being a dried relic of the past, campmeetings still provide the opportunity for many people to hear the message of Salvation and Scriptural Holiness.

Conferences drawing thousands of people are going on almost constantly all over the nation. At these conferences people spend thousands of dollars on admission, food, lodging, and the materials offered by the promoters. At these conferences people sit all day long listening to speaker after speaker, several days at a time. (photo is Carol's first campmeeting in 1953 at 2 months old)

As Carol and I grow in years, we become more convinced that our parents and grandparents gave us life's greatest treasure; a Christian home. Now, our prayer and passion is that we will be found trustworthy of offering that advantage to our children and grandchildren.

We believe that the God of the Scripture, the God who displayed His glory in the great camp meetings of the past, is the same God we worship today. He has not changed. He is no less able to turn the heart of a nation today than He was 100 years ago! All the social and political evils that threaten to be the undoing of our world today, all the false religions that vie for the allegiance of men – these are no match for our God. He is willing – yes, eager – to manifest Himself and His saving grace to this lost, prodigal planet. But first we must have a revived church. And a revived church consists of revived individuals. (photo is Buddy and Stacey in early 1980's blowing the cow horn calling tenters to worship under the Tabernacle)

The psalmist said, “You who seek God, let your hearts revive” (Psalm 69:32). If you will seek Him with all your heart, you can be assured that He will restore, renew, and revive you. That revival will soon affect others. God does not lavish His goodness on us so we can simply enjoy it for ourselves. We have been saved to “proclaim the excellencies of him who called [us] out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). One person, one family, one small group, one church, one campmeeting – no matter how “insignificant” – that is committed to seeking the Lord can become a part of the “awakened giant” that God will use to spread His glory and the fame of His name throughout the world. (photo is great grandfather Dutch Smith who is buried in South Union cemetery))

As we seek Him with all our hearts, our prayer is that God will reveal Himself to us in fresh ways during South Union Campmeeting 2009; that He will revive our hearts, and that He will be magnified in and through our lives.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

C. Marion Smith, Sr. - My hero, my dad

The notion of “dad” triggers may fond memories of early experiences with him as well as an ever-growing friendship in the adult years. “Dad” to me means; pinewood derbies, cushman scooters, fishing, hunting, and my first car. I also think of his amazing success as husband, provider, caregiver, and grandparent. I have received invaluable instruction from my dad about the significance of honesty, character and discipline. His example of a holy life has been a guiding influence to me on many occasions.

I am learning that values aren’t primarily taught to young people by telling them what is right and wrong, though it does have its place. Our (His) values are primarily taught to our children almost incidentally. That is, little by little… moment by moment. By observing how we respond to life’s challenges, hearing us talk on the phone and by being with us. At least, this is the way it was for me. Many times, it was picked up very, very subtly. My dad’s important instructions have come to me through his exemplary life of devotion to God, family, Church and his fellow man. He is a sinner saved by God’s grace that has counted the cost of discipleship and taken his place among the committed.

Many people consider Abraham Lincoln to be the greatest American who ever lived. A generation ago, writer Carl Sandburg set out to analyze and explain the manhood of the sixteenth president of the United States. After much study, Sandburg summed up the character of Abe Lincoln with two words: steel and velvet. He described him as a man of steel and velvet. A Father has to be tough and tender. He needs to be a strong leader of his home and also the great lover of his home. These descriptive traits – steel and velvet – sum up the character of my dad.

Someone has rightfully compared life to that of a relay race where father and mother have the primary responsibility of passing the baton of eternal life along to the children. It is the means that God established for transferring His value system from one generation to the next. If our children do not get that baton in their hands, then nothing else matters much. It matters not how much they accomplish in life. If they don’t get that baton then I have failed. I thank God for my dad and mom who sowed seeds of eternal life in me. They sowed these seeds on many occasions, which they were not even aware.

I have a master’s degree in theology from a respected university but I am convinced that many of America’s greatest teachers have never seen a college. My dad never went to college and yet his influence in my life far outweighs that of any PhD.

Happy Father’s Day, dad! I am blessed to call you my hero, my dad. I love you.

C. Marion (Buddy) Smith, Jr.
June 2009

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Hope and Healing for those caught in the trap of homosexuality

At a recent gathering of the 2009 Mississippi Annual Conference in Jackson, Renee Sappington and Dr. Connie Campbell were given a platform to present glowing testimonies about the beauty and innocence of their homosexual lifestyles and partnership. UPDATE: Article from The Clarion Ledger - Lesbians' testimony shows church rift.

Watch the video of their presentation

Read a transcript of their presentation

These testimonies are an assault on biblical truth about human sexuality and a shameless promotion of homosexual “marriage” that went unchallenged during a worship service at the recent state-wide gathering in Jackson. There were young people present when these members of Parkway Hills United Methodist Church were given a platform to promote a lifestyle that the Bible clearly condemns as sinful behavior. The presenters even openly said that sometimes the church doesn't speak for God. In other words, the United Methodist Church has it wrong about homosexuality. Dr. Connie Campbell is professor of mathematics at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi.

Please join me in praying for Renee Sappington and Dr. Connie Campbell. We (the church) have an obligation to share God’s liberating truth and hope for change with these women who are caught in the trap of homosexuality.

Please join me in praying that Bishop Hope Ward and the leaders of our Mississippi Annual Conference will refute the pro-lesbian testimonies and reaffirm the official position of our church about human sexuality and marriage.

The good news is that those caught in the trap of same-gender attraction can be changed through the redemptive power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sue Bowlin in her excellent article – Can Homosexuals Change? – offers these biblical steps to overcoming homosexuality.
The steps to overcoming homosexuality also apply to overcoming any stronghold.

First, the person has to stop the sinful behavior. It's best to ask for God's help. This is no different from the requirement for any drug or alcohol abuse treatment. You can't work on a problem when you're still totally controlled by it.

The second step is to work on learning what the Bible says about who you are in Christ. Just as people learning to identify counterfeit money examine real currency so they can spot the fakes, the struggler needs to fill his mind with God's Word so he can enter into his true identity as a beloved, valuable child of God.

The third step is working on the thought life, since this is where the battle is. It's important to identify Satan's lies playing as tapes in one's head, and stop the tape player! Then, deliberately replace the lies with the truth. Instead of "I'm never going to change," repeat the truthful promise that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:13). Instead of obsessing over the aching and longing for the unhealthy and sinful behavior, fill your mind with praise and worship and Scripture.

Next, face the fact that it feels lousy! When we stop trying to meet our needs in our own ways, we start experiencing the emotional pain that our strongholds had covered up. When it feels really really bad, we are at that very point where God can make the biggest difference. Ask, What is my true need? What is it my heart is truly longing for? Go to Jesus and let Him meet your deepest heart-needs. Let Him direct you to get your divinely-designed needs for relationship with other people met in godly ways.

This is where powerful healing happens.
Additional Resources for Hope and Healing

Monday, May 25, 2009

"I'm Proud To Be An American"



Today is Memorial Day, a day to remember the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. To all of our Veterans, and to the families of those who lost a family member in service to our country - Thank You! We salute you, we are grateful for your courage and your sacrifice. As we remember our fallen heroes on this special day, I share with you an "Encourager Classic", a poem dedicated to Christian Soldiers...

"I Am A Soldier"
By Cindye Coates

I am a soldier in the army of my God.
The Lord Jesus Christ is my Commanding Officer.
The Holy Bible is my code of conduct.
Faith, Prayer, and the Word are my weapons of Warfare.

I have been taught by the Holy Spirit,
...trained by experience,
...tried by adversity,
...and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in this army, and I am enlisted for eternity.
I will either retire in this Army or die in this Army;
But, I will not get out,
...sell out
...be talked out
...or pushed out.

I am faithful, reliable, capable, and dependable.
If my God needs, me, I am there.

I am a soldier.
I am not a baby. I do not need to be pampered,
...petted,
...primed up,
...pumped up,
...picked up,
...or pepped up.

I am a soldier. No one has to call me,
...remind me,
...write me,
...visit me,
...entice me,
...or lure me.

I am a soldier. I am not a wimp. I am in place,
...saluting my King,
...obeying His orders,
...praising His name,
...and building His Kingdom!

No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy, or give me handouts.
I do not need to be
cuddled,
cradled,
cared for,
or catered to.

I am committed. I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me around.
I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside.
I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit.

When Jesus called me into this Army, I had nothing.
If I end up with nothing, I will still come out even.
I will win.

My God will supply all my needs.
I am more than a conqueror.
I will always triumph.
I can do all things through Christ.

Devils cannot defeat me.
People cannot disillusion me.
Weather cannot weary me.
Sickness cannot stop me.
Battles cannot beat me.
Money cannot buy me. and
Governments cannot silence me

I am a soldier.
Even death cannot destroy me.
For when my Commander calls me from this battlefield,
He will promote me to a captain.

I am a soldier, in the Army, I'm marching, claiming victory.
I will not give up.
I will not turn around.
I am a soldier, marching, Heaven bound.
Here I stand! Will you stand with me?

Thursday, May 21, 2009

God Is...

God Is...

He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End!
He is the Creator of all creation and the Keeper of all he created!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was, He always is, and He always will be...
Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!

He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!

The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him, and
The leaders can't ignore Him.

Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and
The People couldn't hold Him!

Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him, and
Oprah can't explain Him away!

He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.

He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right, His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.

He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior,
He is my guide, and He is my peace!
He is my Joy, He is my comfort,
He is my Lord, and He rules my life!

I serve Him because...
His bond is love,
His burden is light, and
His goal for me is abundant life.

I follow Him because He is...
the wisdom of the wise,
the power of the powerful,
the ancient of days,
the ruler of rulers,
the leader of leaders,
the overseer of the overcomers and the sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come.

And if that seems impressive to you, try this on for size...
His goal is a relationship with ME!
He will never leave me,
Never forsake me,
Never mislead me,
Never forget me,
Never overlook me, and
Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!

He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time, and every way.

He is God,
He is faithful.
I am His, and He is mine!

My Father in heaven can defeat the father of this world.
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control,
I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul.

Every day is a blessing - for GOD Is!

Here I Am to Worship

I don't know what you might be going through right now but here is worship video guaranteed to stir your heart by Darlene Zschech and the Hillsong praise team. Join in with the crowd and worship The King.

Monday, April 13, 2009

That's my King!


Dr. Shadrach Meshach (S.M.) Lockridge (March 7, 1913 – April 4, 2000) was the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, a prominent African-American congregation located in San Diego, California, from 1953 to 1993. He was known for his preaching across the United States and around the world.

Shadrach Meshach Lockridge was born March 7, 1913, in Robertson County, Texas, the oldest of eight children and the son of a Baptist minister. A graduate of Bishop College in Marshall, Texas, he worked for two years as a high school English teacher. In 1940 in Dallas, he felt led to preach. In 1941 he married Virgil Mae Thomas but they never had any children.

In 1942, he accepted his first pastorate at Fourth Ward Baptist Church in Ennis, Texas. In August 1952, he was named pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in San Diego where he served until retiring in 1993.

During Dr. Lockridge's tenure at Calvary Baptist, a predominantly African-American congregation, his ministry touched the lives of more than 100,000 people. He preached at crusades, revivals, religious rallies and evangelistic conferences around the world.

He held doctorates and numerous honorary degrees and was often sought as a public speaker, even after he retired in 1993. He served as guest lecturer at numerous schools and universities and on the faculty of several others, including the Billy Graham School of Evangelism.

His best-known message is a six and a half minute description of Jesus Christ, known as "That's my King!" for Lockridge's repeated refrain.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

The Old Rugged Cross



Old Rugged Cross by Anne Murray pictures: "Passion of Christ" by Mel Gibson

Day 40: Silence
by Ray Pritchard

The four gospels do not tell us much about what happened on the Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. We know that after Jesus died, the disciples stayed behind locked doors for fear of the Jewish leaders (John 20:19). Their fear was well-founded because on that Saturday, the chief priests and the Pharisees met with Pilate and asked him to order the tomb sealed to prevent the disciples from stealing Jesus’ body (Matthew 27:62-66). After the resurrection, those same religious leaders would bribe the guards so they would spread the rumor that the disciples had indeed stolen Jesus’ body from the tomb (Matthew 28:11-15). In a bizarre twist, Jesus’ opponents had a greater belief in his resurrection than his disciples. The only other detail we know about Saturday is that because it was the Sabbath, the women who were with Jesus at the cross rested according to the commandment (Luke 23:56).

In the various Christian traditions this day goes by several names: Holy Saturday, Great Saturday, Easter Eve, and Silent Saturday. There are not many liturgical practices associated with this day. It is meant for rest and reflection because on this day Jesus “rested” in the tomb. Often this day is used to prepare food for the great Easter celebration that comes on Sunday. Some churches celebrate the Easter Vigil that begins after sundown on Saturday night.

It is a long day, this Silent Saturday. In many ways it represents life as it is for all of us. Though we like to say that we live on the other side of Easter, and that of course is true in the ultimate sense, it is also true that we live somewhere between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The crucifixion is behind us, but death is still with us and the final victory lies somewhere in the future. Every funeral reminds us that “the final enemy that will be destroyed is death” (1 Corinthians 15:26). Death was defeated by Jesus, but it has not yet been destroyed. That happy day is still in front of us.

The message of Holy Saturday is, “Get ready. Something is about to happen. But it hasn’t happened yet.” Thank God, we’re not moving back toward the crucifixion. It may be Saturday but we’re moving toward Easter. Sunday’s coming. All we’ve got to do is hold on a little while longer and Sunday will soon be here.

Keep the faith, brothers and sisters. Yesterday our Lord was crucified. Today his body lies in the tomb. Tomorrow he rises from the dead. Saturday can seem like a long day–and it is–but be of good cheer. The crucifixion is behind us, Saturday will not last forever. Sooner than we think, Sunday will be here. As one writer put it, when Jesus walked out of the tomb, all his people came out with him.

We are Easter people marching from Good Friday through Holy Saturday on our way to Easter Sunday. We’re not quite there but we’re moving in the right direction.

It’s Saturday, but Sunday’s coming. Let that thought give strength to your heart today.

O Lord, waiting is so hard. And waiting is what this day is all about. Grant us faith while we wait so that we will be not lose heart but will be ready to rejoice when Sunday finally comes. Amen.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Good Friday 2009 - Walk With The Cross


Christian pilgrims from around the world traditionally fill the narrow cobblestone streets of Jerusalem's Old City on Good Friday, some carrying large wooden crosses as they follow the route Jesus took on the way to his crucifixion.

Carol and I served as pastor of Christ United Methodist of Indianola, Mississippi, from 1982 until 1989. On Good Friday 1988, we began what would become a tradition for area Christians of carrying the cross through the streets of their city.

Watch this video presentation of the 1988 Walk with the Cross in Indianola, Mississippi, as we begin at First United Methodist Church – carrying the cross through the streets of Indianola – and reaching our destination at Christ United Methodist Church.


Good Friday Walk With The Cross from Buddy Smith on Vimeo.

When they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him. —Luke 23:33

When Jesus died on the cross, He paid for the sins of the human race. Only those who believe on Him, however, can receive His loving provision. The sacrifice of Christ is sufficient for all, but it is effective only for those who place their trust in Him.

On this Good Friday 2009, let’s thank Jesus for paying for our sin. If you haven’t trusted Him, do it today!

We may not know, we cannot tell
What pains He had to bear;
But we believe it was for us
He hung and suffered there. —Alexander



"Still He Walked"

Author Unknown

He could hear the crowds screaming "crucify" "crucify"...
He could hear the hatred in their voices,
These were his chosen people.
He loved them,
And they were going to crucify him.
He was beaten, bleeding and weakened...
His heart was broken,
But still He walked.

He could see the crowd as he came from the palace.
He knew each of the faces so well.
He had created them.
He knew every smile, every laugh, and every shed tear,
But now they were contorted with rage and anger
His heart broke,
But still He walked.

Was he scared? You and I would have been
So his humanness would have mandated that he was.
He felt alone.
His disciples had left, denied, and even betrayed him.
He searched the crowd for a loving face and he saw very few.
Then he turned his eyes to the only one that mattered
And he knew that he would never be alone.
He looked back at the crowd...
At the people who were spitting at him
Throwing rocks at him and mocking him
And he knew that because of him,
They would never be alone.
So for them, He walked.



The sounds of the hammer striking the spikes echoed through the crowd.
The sounds of his cries echoed even louder,
The cheers of the crowd, as his hands and feet were nailed to the cross,
Intensified with each blow.
Loudest of all was the still small voice
Inside his Heart that whispered "I am with you, my son",
And God's heart broke.
He had let His son walk.

Jesus could have asked God to end his suffering,
But instead He asked God to forgive.
Not to forgive him, but to forgive the ones who were persecuting him.
As he hung on that cross, dying an unimaginable death,
He looked out and saw, not only the faces in the crowd,
But also, the face of every person yet to be,
And his heart filled with love.
As his body was dying, his heart was alive.
Alive with the limitless, unconditional love he feels for each of us.
That is why He walked.

When I forget how much My God loves me,
...I remember his walk.
When I wonder if I can be forgiven,
...I remember his walk.
When I need to be reminded of how to live like Christ,
...I think of his walk.
And to show him how much I love him,
...I wake up each morning, turn my eyes to him,
.......And I walk.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Remembering Terri Schiavo

Today is the fourth anniversary of the death of Terri Schiavo, the Florida woman who suffered starvation and dehydration at the hands of her physicians and her husband. Read more at OneNewsNow.com

Here is a video clip where I spoke at a rally for Terri to plead for her life. The rally took place at the Florida state capitol building in Tallahassee.

Wednesday, February 04, 2009

Happy 100th birthday Bev Shea: America's beloved gospel singer

Mr. George Beverly Shea is one of the world's most recognized voices. He's sung live in front of an estimated 200 million people, recorded more than 70 albums of gospel music and won a Grammy along with 10 Grammy nominations. I can't remember a time when he wasn't part of the Billy Graham crusades. Perhaps that's because he started singing at the Graham crusades four years before I was born. I remember him vividly on black-and-white TV when I was a kid, as well as in person when I attended a Billy Graham Crusade.

Sunday, February 2, 2009, Bev Shea (as he prefers to be called) marked his 100th birthday. He told one interviewer, "On the ladder of life, I have reached rung 100, and I can see the scenery a little better than those who are still climbing."

The years certainly have not diminished his sense of humor. Nor have they silenced his song. He still loves to sing at celebrations and events connected to Billy Graham's ministry. And he recently told an interviewer that he loves taking his speed boat for a run whenever possible. This centenarian enjoys working on his computer, too.

Bev Shea has been involved as a soloist with Billy Graham and his ministry since 1947. At the time Graham was pastor of the Village Church in Western Springs, Illinois. In a September 2007 interview Shea recalled how he first met Billy Graham:
"One morning, there was a rap on my office door. I looked out and there was a tall young man with blond hair and we shook hands. He was 21 and I was 31. It was Billy Graham and he had traveled in from Wheaton College on a train just to say 'hello.' He said he listened to my morning hymn show called 'Hymns From The Chapel.' That's how we first got acquainted. I came into this work with Mr. Graham in 1947 after we had exchanged letters and talked on the phone. He said he wanted me to be his gospel singer. I thanked him, but told him the only gospel singers I've ever heard about would sing a verse or two and stop and talk awhile. 'Would I have to do that?' I asked him. He chuckled and said, 'I hope not.' With that, I said, 'Well, I'd like to come with you. That was in November of 1947 and I've been with him ever since."
I met Bev Shea over twenty years ago in Atlanta when we had a brief and causal conversation. We were in a hotel lobby where we had both just checked out. I had to tell him “thank you” for his sharing his golden gospel voice with the world and for writing the songs, “I’d Rather Have Jesus,” and “The Wonder of It All.” His gracious reply went something like this, “Imagine this…I wrote that song (I’d Rather Have Jesus) as just a young lad and here I am in my eighty’s and still singing it.”

Last week, Neil Enloe wrote the following which I think is a most fitting tribute to the man who rightfully has often been called "America's Beloved Gospel Singer."
"While the whole nation clamors for the Super Bowl this Sunday, I would just like to remind you that a real Super Hero is celebrating his 100th birthday on the same day. George Beverly Shea becomes a centenarian with Heaven's distinguished service award as a Gospel singer. We all should be so fortunate, huh?

"What's a Super Bowl game that took only a year to ripen and could go either direction, compared to the well-seasoned, committed career of a humble servant of Jesus Christ who never lowered his standard of excellence or his integrity?

"I'm certainly not trying to dampen the excitement of the big game, but for my part I would rather receive the "Well done, thou good and faithful servant" Award, than to have Super Bowl rings on all eight fingers. And while Mr. Shea's big milestone will doubtless be overshadowed by the game, the triumph of his lifetime accomplishments for Christ will most certainly be the object of the party of Heavenly hosts, where the real score is kept. One party will hand out rings; the other, crowns."
I agree with Russ Busby of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association who wrote, "When most singers finish a performance, the audience is left thinking about what a great singer he is. But whenever George Beverly Shea finishes his song, we are all left thinking about our relationship with God."

Happy 100th Birthday Mr. George Beverly Shea! It’s not too late to leave him a “Happy Birthday” wish on his website.

Monday, February 02, 2009

No More Night

If your heart needs some encouragement, check out this YouTube video of David Phelps singing “No More Night.”

Friday, January 30, 2009

NBC rejects this Super Bowl ad because it contains pro-life message



This wonderful pro-life commercial was supposed to run during the Super Bowl on Sunday. NBC television has rejected a pro-life advertisement which Catholicvote.org bought for a slot in the Super Bowl because the ad contains a pro-life message. The 30-second ad features ultrasound pictures from a baby in its mother’s womb. After first accepting it, NBC apparently changed its collective mind, saying it wasn't going to run advocacy ads during the big game.

Brian Burch, President of Fidelis, a Chicago-based Catholic organization responsible for the commercial, says that NBC initially responded positively and he was raising money to pay for it. Watch the commercial below, and imagine the impact it could have had on the millions who watch the Super Bowl.

There is nothing either graphic or political about the 30-second ad and the word abortion is not even used. In fact, no words are spoken, only graphics that appear on-screen. Yet, the message is extremely powerful. You can view the ad here.

Call NBC Entertainment at 818-840-4444. Tell the operator that you want to urge NBC to reconsider airing the Super Bowl ad produced by Catholicvote.org. Although the ad makes a valid life-affirming statement in a powerful way, it is neither offensive or contentious.

Elections Have Consequences!

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Congratulations Casey Smith - Dixie Section PGA 2008 Alabama Chapter Junior Golf Leader

The above photo is Casey Smith receiving the award for "Junior Leader of the Year" and is presented from the Alabama Chapter of the Dixie Section PGA. The plaque reads:

The Dixie Section PGA
presents to
Casey Smith
in recognition of being awarded the
2008 Alabama Chapter Junior Golf Leader

Casey was nominated by one of his peers and was selected by the Special Awards Committee of the Dixie Section PGA. His employer at Farmlinks congratulated Casey for all his hard work with the First Tee of Pursell Farms and for his impact on junior golf.

Casey Smith earned the status of PGA Golf Professional in November of 2006. Celebrating its 90th anniversary, The Professional Golfers Association (PGA) of America was founded in 1916, and is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the game of golf while continuing to enhance the standards of the profession. The Association is comprised of more than 28,000 men and women PGA Professionals who are dedicated to growing participation in the game of golf.

Casey is Head Golf Professional at Farmlinks Golf Club near Sylacauga, Alabama. You can send Casey a congratulations by e-mail at the following address csmith@farmlinks.org.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

A Giant of a Man - Meet Nick Vujicic

A Giant of a Man - Meet Nick Vujicic

This is amazing and you'll be glad you watched it. It's worth a second viewing even if you've seen it before----a great Christian witness.

His name is Nick Vujicic and he's 25 years old. He was born without arms or legs and given no medical reason for this condition. Faced with countless challenges and obstacles, God has given him the strength to surmount what others might call impossible. Along with that, the Lord has placed within him an unquenchable passion to share this same hope and genuine love that he's personally experienced with more than two million people all over the globe. Traveling extensively to over 19 nations, he's been extremely humbled by the continuous opportunities that the Lord has given him to share his testimony along with the hope that he has in Jesus with people in so many nations and situations. His greatest joy in this life is to introduce Jesus to those he meets and tell them of His great desire to get to know them personally by allowing Him to become their Lord and Savior. For more information, visit - http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org

Saturday, January 03, 2009

Dr. Gary Nathan Kisner, my friend

My good friend, Gary Kisner, out ran me to Heaven this week. Carol and I met Gary and his family at an orientation event upon entering seminary at Oral Roberts University in 1976. We sustained the friendship beyond seminary days through e-mails, phone calls and even shared preaching engagements in our churches. I considered Gary a close friend and rejoice that he is experiencing more beauty and splendor than he's ever known - for there's no place like our eternal home.

To Darlene, Erin, Eric, Jonathan & Family: How could we ever begin to express how knowing all of you has so deeply enriched our lives? From the beginning of our friendship at ORU and continuing through the years, you guys have always been a source of great encouragement to our family. Please know that we love you and that Gary's legacy of faithfulness to God will always be a treasured memory. You will remain in our prayers the days ahead. Love in Jesus, Buddy, Carol, Stacey, Casey, Marion & Joan

Dr. Gary Nathan Kisner, 60, of Rock Lake Community, Fairmont, died Wednesday afternoon, December 31, 2008 at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was born October 29, 1948 in Fairmont, West Virginia, a son of Mary Kisner of Fairmont and the late Richard Kisner. He is survived by his wife of forty years, Linda Darlene Kisner of Rock Lake Community.

Gary was a native West Virginian, born and raised in Fairmont. He was a 1966 graduate of East Fairmont High School, 1970 graduate of Fairmont State College with a B.S. in Business Administration, 1980 graduate of Oral Roberts University with a Masters of Divinity Degree and a 1998 graduate of Christian Life School of Theology earning a Doctorate of Ministry Degree. Gary’s church background was United Methodist where he ministered as an ordained pastor and evangelist from 1980-1986. Since 1986, Gary had ministered as an Independent Spirit-filled pastor and evangelist. Gary’s ministry spanned 30 years of service as pastor of 4 churches and as a full-time evangelist ministering across the country. Gary also had a heart for short term evangelistic projects around the world. He had traveled extensively preaching the gospel in Haiti, the Netherlands, the Ukraine, the Philippines, Hong Kong, China and Scotland. Gary was the founder and leader of the Church of Fairmont, a ministerial fellowship in Marion County. He was the State director for CLEN (Christian Life Educational Network) in West Virginia and remained on the Board of Regents for CLEN. He continued to serve on the advisory board for the Times West Virginian and also wrote articles for the “Faith Journeys” section of the paper. Gary provided Apostolic oversight for 6 churches and/or ministries throughout West Virginia and North Carolina. He was also a founding member and active President of PrayWV Servant Leadership Team.

In addition to his mother and wife, he is also survived by:

(2) Sons: Eric Kisner of Spring Hill, Tennessee

Jonathan Kisner and his wife Stacy of Summerville, South Carolina

(1) Daughter and son in law: Erin and Kevin Loudin of Charleston, South Carolina

(2) Grandchildren: Micah and Caleb Loudin of Charleston, South Carolina

(2) Brothers: Arlington Kisner and his wife Christine of Orlando, Florida

Brad Kisner and his wife Sue of Rock Lake Community

(1) Sister: Sally Boyce and her husband Doug of Brock Hollow Community

He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call the Ford Funeral Home, Ford Chapel, 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, on Saturday, January 3, 2009 from 6-9 PM and on Sunday, January 4, 2009 from 12-4, 6-9. Visitation will continue on Monday, January 5, 2009 from 10:00-11:00 A.M at the Everlasting Covenant Church, 17 Everlasting Drive, Fairmont (near Mom‘s Restaurant). Funeral services will be held at the Everlasting Covenant Church on Monday, January 5, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with the PrayWV Servant Leadership Team officiating. Interment will follow at the Mt. Zion Cemetery and Mausoleum in Fairmont. Online condolences may be at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.